The cost of home insurance in the East Bay is generally in the range of $1,000 to $2,000 annually. How much your actual insurance policy will cost is determined by the overall size of the house, the age of the house, the amount of updating to the … [Read more...] about How much is home insurance?
Real Estate Classroom
Why is buying or selling a house so confusing? It doesn't have to be! I'm on a mission to de-mystify the process of buying or selling a home in the East Bay. This blog deconstructs many of the most frustrating aspects of breaking into the local real estate market, to provide you with the tools you need to succeed.
“Virtual Staging” — the next thing?
Recently my favorite house photographer sent me some examples of a service he will be offering soon -- "virtual staging." Never heard of virtual staging? That's because it's not a thing yet. But, I have a hunch it will be, soon. When budgeting … [Read more...] about “Virtual Staging” — the next thing?
Trenchless Sewer Lateral Replacement
In today's Real Estate Classroom, I want to tell you all about the amazing technology called "trenchless sewer lateral replacement." Now, you might not think that sewer laterals are very exciting, but just wait! First, a little information you … [Read more...] about Trenchless Sewer Lateral Replacement
What is a Preemptive Offer on a House?
A pre-emptive house offer is an offer made by a buyer in advance of a pre-determined offer date. Buyers use pre-emptive offers to try to dissuade a seller from waiting for other offers. Do pre-emptive offers work? A … [Read more...] about What is a Preemptive Offer on a House?
Do I Need a Real Estate Agent to Buy a House?
Nope! There is no rule or regulation that requires you to work with a real estate agent when buying a home in the east bay. However, many people, including myself, would say that you are on a fool’s errand to try it. Here’s why. A plum or a … [Read more...] about Do I Need a Real Estate Agent to Buy a House?
A Feeding Frenzy: Creating Real Estate Demand
I edged between a very pregnant woman and her very vocal mother-in-law. Reaching the refrigerator, I extracted my Tupperware container of chocolate-chip cookie dough. Yes, I was baking cookies at a real estate open house. Yes, it is a cliché. But … [Read more...] about A Feeding Frenzy: Creating Real Estate Demand
Berkeley Rentals
Oh, if only I had a dime for every phone call I get from a hopeful tenants asking if I can help them get a rental Berkeley! The fact is, I can't help -- that is, as a Realtor I don't have access to a centralized database of homes for … [Read more...] about Berkeley Rentals
What Not to Buy
After 25 years in real estate, it still amazes me that in every transaction, I learn something new. Recently, I got a call from a San Francisco agent who asked if I could help a young couple buy a home in Montclair. The agent said that the young … [Read more...] about What Not to Buy
Hello, I’m Holly Rose. I help people buy and sell homes in the East Bay. I specialize in fine old homes with interesting or historically significant architecture.