Agents’ Heightened Duties to Clients under Saffie v. Schmeling

Last year, the California Court of Appeals handed down a decision that may have serious repercussions for the real estate broker community (Saffie v. Schmeling, Fourth Appellate District, Case No. E055716, dated March 7, 2014). In Saffie, a Buyer’s…

Neighborhood Spotlight — Old Palo Alto

Unquestionably one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Silicon Valley, Old Palo Alto has a unique blend of spectacular architecture, large parcels, great public schools, and a central location that has made the neighborhood highly desirable to multiple…

The Downside to Live Offer Presentations

In this hot Sellers’ market, multiple offers and above-asking bids are common. In fact, it is not unusual for a home to receive ten or more offers. Naturally, agents who are representing Buyers like the opportunity to present their clients’ offers…

Buying Real Estate Sight Unseen

The world is getting smaller and technology is getting better. It is no surprise then that the Silicon Valley real estate market has seen an increase in the number of people who are buying homes without personally visiting the properties. There are two…

Vacation Areas Poised for Strong Real Estate Appreciation

Over the past year or so, there has been a marked increase in people selling their Bay Area homes and moving to certain easily accessible get-a-way locations. In addition to offering a refreshing change of pace, many of these areas also offer a tempting…

Real Estate Matters—Conflicts of Interest

Although the practice is completely legal and widely accepted in California, it seems impossible for one real estate agent to zealously represent both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction, even when the situation is properly disclosed. Simply…

Neighborhood Spotlight – Los Altos’ Country Club

Many buyers overlook one of the most beautiful areas of Los Altos—the Country Club neighborhood. Either because of the relatively hilly and windy streets or the area’s location on the west side of Foothill Expressway, this area does not always appear…

“Affordable” Housing Options

With housing prices at an astronomical high, many young Bay Area couples have found themselves “priced out” of the neighborhoods in which they would like to raise their families. Though a couple may have two strong salaries and are able to scrape…

Tax Concerns Contribute to Housing Inventory Shortage

Between the demands of the federal government and the State of California, the “Tax Man” has played a key role in the current housing shortage in Silicon Valley. Although area real estate has been a remarkably good investment over the past 30 years,…

The Impact of Foreign Investment on the Silicon Valley Real Estate Market

The confluence of a vibrant economy, ideal climate, and intellectual capital draws people to Silicon Valley from around the world. This melding of cultures, ideas, and approaches only serves to intensify the appeal of this area. As the demographic profile…