Relocating to Sonoma County
Considering a move to Sonoma County? Before you start packing your bags, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of living in this picturesque region. From its stunning landscapes to its high cost of living, Sonoma County offers both enticing benefits and potential challenges for prospective residents. Let's explore the upsides and downsides of calling Sonoma County home.
Navigating Capital Gains Taxes on Real Estate
As a homeowner, you've likely experienced the satisfaction of watching your property appreciate in value over the years. However, with increased value comes the potential for capital gains taxes when you decide to sell. Understanding how capital gains taxes work is crucial for making informed decisions about your real estate investments. In this blog post, we'll explore what capital gains taxes are, how they apply to homeowners, and some strategies to minimize their impact.
Nominated For a Petaluma People’s Choice Award 2024
Rachael Dressler has been nominated for a Petaluma People’s Choice Award for 2024!
How Real Estate Agents Get Paid
You may be wondering how exactly real estate agents get paid. In this blog post, I'll break down how real estate agents currently get paid in Northern California.
Don’t Make These Mistakes After Applying for a Mortgage
So, you just applied for a mortgage. Congratulations! You will want to be careful during the mortgage process so that you don’t put your loan in jeopardy. Don’t make the following mistakes.
Preparing to Take Out a Mortgage? Do This First
Purchasing a home is a significant life milestone, and for most people, it involves securing a mortgage to finance the purchase. Mortgages can be complex, but with careful preparation and planning, the process can be streamlined and less daunting. Here are essential steps to take when preparing to take out a mortgage.
7 Steps to Take if Your House Hasn’t Sold
Selling a house can be a stressful and emotional process. Despite your best efforts, sometimes homes don't sell as quickly as you'd like. However, all is not lost! In this blog post, I’ll explore constructive steps you can take if your house hasn't sold. From reevaluating your pricing strategy to making strategic improvements, there are various approaches to enhance your chances of a successful sale.
7 Benefits of Home Ownership
Owning a home brings forth many advantages, both personal and financial.
5 Things to Know About Moving to Petaluma, California
Are you contemplating a move to Petaluma, California? This charming city, situated in Sonoma County, offers a fantastic lifestyle and a charming community that is close to the beach, wine country, and all that the Bay Area has to offer.
Understanding Escrow: A Guide for Bay Area Home Buyers and Sellers
Have you ever wondered exactly what happens when someone is “in escrow” when buying or selling a house? In this article, I will demystify the concept of escrow and explain its importance in the home buying and selling process. Understanding escrow will give you the confidence to navigate a real estate transaction smoothly and securely.
Strategies for a Seller's Market
A seller's market is a real estate market in which there are more buyers than sellers. This means that sellers have more power in negotiations and can often sell their homes for more than they would in a buyer's market. During a seller’s market, properties will often sell quickly, sell for over their asking price, and receive multiple offers.
Are Fiduciary Realtors Your Secret to Real Estate Success?
Buying or selling a property may be one of the most significant decisions you'll ever make in life. It's a journey filled with excitement, dreams, and, sometimes, a bit of anxiety. To ensure a seamless experience, you'll want a skilled professional who not only guides you through the process but also acts as a fiduciary—a trusted advocate with your best interests at heart. In this article, I'll explore what it means for real estate agents to be fiduciaries and how this dedication benefits their clients on their quest to find the perfect home.
10 things to do in Petaluma
There are many things to do in Petaluma, California, for visitors or people moving there. Here are a few ideas.
Homeowners Insurance in California
You may have heard on the news that State Farm and Allstate, two homeowner insurance providers, are no longer accepting new applications for homeowner insurance policies in California. This was due to the risk of wildfires faced by California homes as well as the increased costs to rebuild.
6 Ways to Hold Title in California
Holding title to property is legal ownership. It gives you the right to possess, use, enjoy, sell, or transfer it. In California, there are several ways to hold title to property. The most common ways are sole ownership, tenancy in common, joint tenancy, community property, community property with the right of survivorship, and a living trust.
Living in Petaluma - Festivals and Events
When I first moved to Petaluma, I felt like there was some sort of event happening downtown almost every weekend. Petaluma loves to throw festivals and other events. Here are a few of my favorites.
Should You Waive Your Contingencies?
Have you heard someone say that you should waive your contingencies to make your offer more appealing? The California Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA) typically includes several contingencies that protect the interests of both buyers and sellers.
Petaluma Realtor
Rachael Dressler is a Realtor based in Petaluma in Sonoma County. She works in both Sonoma and Marin Counties and is a Certified Probate and Trust Specialist. She is also a Certified First-Time Home Buyer Specialist and a Certified Real Estate Negotiator.
10 Ways to Prepare Your Home to Sell
As you prepare your house to sell, it is important that it is in the best state possible. Houses that are clean and well-maintained sell faster and for more money.