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Agent of the Month – David Hargreaves
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You may know him as the powerhouse writer behind Modern Living Sonoma, but now’s your chance to get to know him as one of W’s valued agents! It is our pleasure to introduce November’s Agent of the Month, David Hargreaves! Read on to learn more about David, his passion for Sonoma County, and a few of the key things he attributes to his success!
To what do you attribute your success?
Focus and Consistency. Right from the start I focused on a specific set of buyers (people re-locating, second home owners/buyer, vacation rental properties and people looking to build a dream home) and went out of my way to become as knowledgeable as I could be about that market.
What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
The last book I read will mean nothing to everyone reading this as it was the biography of famous English cricketer! I am an avid podcast subscriber and love the Freakonomics podcast.
What software/tech tools can you not live without?
A big part of my success is being seen as an expert and providing valuable information through my blog www.modernlivingsonoma.com/blog. I use Placester.com to power my website which integrate with Mailchimp for delivering the content to my readers in a monthly newsletter.
Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
I have to confess I need to work on this. I love travel which has been hard this year although I have now got a small RV that I use to escape into nature. My next step is to fit it with satellite internet so I can write an offer from the mountains!
What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County/SF County Residential Real Estate market?
There are over 16,000 people who live in the Bay Area but own secondary properties in Sonoma County. With the exodus from the Bay Area due to Covid, I feel that the Sonoma County will continue to see a really strong demand from buyers migrating north for quite some time to come.
What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
For my first year in business I put a lot of effort into my blog with very little reward. However now the hard work is starting to pay off with a number of my blog posts now ranking on the first page of Google (for example “vacation rental rules in Sonoma County”). I now have over 2000 readers per month reading articles so this is becoming a very valuable source of leads.
What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
For me it is all about the floor plan and location. If you are looking for a classic wine country property if you have the location and floor plan that works, you can create the property of your dreams.
What is a quote that inspires you?
“Innovate or Die”. This is a quote from Andy Grove, the founder and CEO of Intel, the microprocessor company.
If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Focus. Doing a small number of things well and doing them consistently will pay dividends. The worst thing you can do is do lots of things half heartedly.
Q3 10 Points Award Announcement
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Agents of the Month – Doug Del Fava & Shannon Parker
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It is our pleasure to introduce October’s Agents of the Month, Doug Del Fava and Shannon Parker! The dynamic team pride themselves on their real estate knowledge, as well as their ability to work together to boost up each others skill sets, and to work hard for each of their clients. Keep reading to learn more about Doug and Shannon, and just what makes them such a powerful duo!
To what do you attribute your success?
Shannon and I pride ourselves in great communication, excellent negotiating/problem-solving and a consistent follow-up. Our clients our are family and we pride ourselves on maintaining our client base. I would estimate that around 50% or more of our business are referrals from previous clients.
What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
What software/tech tools can you not live without?
Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Shannon and I both make time for activities and a life outside of work. My balances come from my passion of being a musician for over 50 years and a regular round of golf with friends. Shannon usually finds herself with another new home project to keep her busy. We feel it is very important to find a harmonious balance between your work life and finding time for yourself, your family, your relationships.
What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County/SF County Residential Real Estate market?
The proximity and accessibility to the greater Bay Area makes Sonoma County very unique and desirable. The various types of properties available in the North Bay offer buyers every aspect of real estate to choose from.
What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
What is a quote that inspires you?
If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
My advice to new agents would be to align yourself with an experienced agent/mentor and attend as many seminars and conferences as possible. This can help you get acclimated in the industry. A lot of this business is experience and learning the ropes. Ask questions and try to absorb all the information you can.
Agent to Watch – Denise Horner
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We’d like to introduce you to one of October’s Agents to Watch, Denise Horner! She is passionate about making her clients dreams of owning their own home come true, while always making sure to take time to enjoy all of what Sonoma County has to offer. Read on to learn more about Denise!
Why did you choose to pursue a career in real estate?
How do you think your clients would describe you?
What is your motto?
What is one thing people must do when they visit Sonoma County?
What does a perfect day in Sonoma County look like for you?
What’s your favorite way to relax?
What’s your favorite local happy hour?
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Agent to Watch – Taylor Mason
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Introducing one of Octobers Agents to Watch, Taylor Mason! Taylor originally moved to Sonoma County for school, and after completing his degree he decided to combine his knowledge of energy efficient living with making prospective homeowners dreams a reality. Read on to find out more about Taylor and his passion for real estate!
Why did you choose to pursue a career in real estate?
How do you think your clients would describe you?
Calm, honest, caring and straight up.
What is your motto?
My goal is your goal.
What is one thing people must do when they visit Sonoma County?
Do some wine tasting.
What does a perfect day in Sonoma County look like for you?
80 degrees, clear skies.
What’s your favorite way to relax?
Go for a motorcycle ride or go to the beach.
What’s your favorite local happy hour?
Crooked Goat.
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Taco truck in Roseland.
North Bay – “Best Of”
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Agent to Watch – Donna Bennett
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In this month’s Agent to Watch, we are excited to feature Donna Bennett! Donna has been active in the Sonoma County real estate market since she was a teenager, and she is always ready to share her knowledge with her clients to elevate their experience. Donna is extremely proud of her three children, and she attributes raising them in Sonoma County to helping her deepen her ties with her community. When she isn’t working or volunteering, Donna enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, hiking, and being out on her boat on Lake Sonoma. Continue reading to learn more about Donna.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in real estate?
I had excellent mentors early in life. Their advice and guidance greatly contributed to my current real estate successes and endeavors. I chose this path to help others to build their real estate portfolio, just as I have.
How do you think your clients would describe you?
I strive to be as accessible and thorough as possible with my clients. I feel they would agree in describing me as such. In addition, I have been complimented on my honesty, integrity, reliability, and quick response time.
What is your motto?
I know how stressful the real estate game can be. Whether you are a buyer or seller, my motto has always been to strive for an enjoyable process. This should be an exciting transition in your life, not a stressful one!
What is something most people would never guess about you?
The age at which I purchased my first piece of real estate always seems to shock clients. I was only 19 years old!
What is one thing people must do when they visit Sonoma County?
Sonoma County is known for its beautiful wineries and landscape. There are excellent tours and tastings available to our wine lovers. I highly recommend driving the coastal highway, with its gorgeous views. For more sightseeing from a different perspective, the wine country hot air balloon ride is a must-see! My recommendations for families include the Charles Schultz Museum, Safari West, and summer nights on the Windsor Town Green.
What does a perfect day in Sonoma County look like for you?
My perfect Sonoma County day would definitely start at the local farmer’s market on the Windsor Town Green. Coffee as I browse, then head to the Foothill Regional Park for an afternoon hike. I love shopping in the Healdsburg town square. The local boutique shops have something for everyone. To finish, dinner at Campo Fina. They have an outdoor bocce court that makes for a perfect end to the day!
What’s your favorite way to relax?
It isn’t easy choosing just one, but my favorite place to relax is Lake Sonoma. My family spent time on the lake when I was growing up. It has now become a fun and relaxing place to spend time with friends!
What’s your favorite local happy hour?
For happy hour, my first choice is usually John Ash in Santa Rosa.
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
My favorite restaurant is Campo Fina, located in Healdsburg. As I mentioned before, they have a beautiful outdoor patio and bocce court.
Agent to Watch – Filippo Viola
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Congratulations to one of September’s Agents to Watch, Filippo Viola! Filippo values the extreme importance of personal relationships in his industry, and he takes pride in going above and beyond to find the perfect home for his clients and providing excellent customer service. Read on to learn more about Filippo and what he loves so much about living and working in this area!
Why did you choose to pursue a career in real estate?
Real Estate is the most expensive thing to legally sell in Mendocino County.
How do you think your clients would describe you?
Communicative, hard-working, caring.
What is your motto?
Yes.
What is something most people would never guess about you?
I love to surf!
What is one thing people must do when they visit Mendocino County?
Wine tasting, exploring Anderson Valley.
What does a perfect day in Mendocino County look like for you?
Wake up super early, surf at Point Arena, come back around noon to service some clients then enjoy an evening with the family.
What’s your favorite way to relax?
Surfing.
What’s your favorite local happy hour?
Rivino.
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Catelli’s.
Agent of the Month – Jonathan Bruington
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Jonathan, a Sonoma County native, is our newest Agent of the Month! Jonathan found his love for real estate early, eventually going on to gross millions in sales all while he was still finishing his degree. After Jonathan graduated from Pacific Union College with his degree in Finance, he continued his career journey by becoming more involved in the renovation and construction side of real estate as well. Jonathan believes having this well-rounded experience helps him be the best agent possible for his clients and to produce excellent outcomes. Read on to learn more about our Agent of the Month Jonathan!
To what do you attribute your success?
I have been blessed to have many great mentors to look up to and learn from, in addition to my amazing clients and the relationships I have been fortunate enough to build over the years. I truly believe is a people business.
What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
I am not a big reader, but I believe educating yourself in as many areas as possible is invaluable.
What software/tech tools can you not live without?
My phone is my number 1 tool. The capacity and versatility that a phone has, which we all carry with us at all times of the day, is crucial. I am also a big believer is keeping back-end parts of my business organized with tools like QuickBooks allows me to focus my energy and effort in the areas that best serve my clients.
Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Yes, I believe boundaries have to be set and that priorities have to be recognized in order to achieve a balance and allow time for different aspects of life. I believe that finding what makes you feel fulfilled in your personal life will allow you to feel more recharged in your professional career and vice versa.
What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County/SF County Residential Real Estate market?
The diversity of property types and areas is really unique. Across the North Bay, we have almost every type of property imaginable. Whether it be your suburban homes in family-centric neighborhoods, to vineyard estates, modern showpieces, or homes with incredible ocean views, the North Bay really has it all to offer.
What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
Relationships and circles of influence. I rely heavily on my sphere and referrals and having many groups that I am involved in are key to that.
What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
That it fits a client’s unique needs and goals for a property. Whether that be optimizing cashflows, buying in the path of progress, or buying a property that may fit a client’s personal needs for use. People can get so caught up in the numbers, which are critical, but it has it to be right for the individual. A property may have a great CAP rate, but be in an area or be a type of property that does not fit the client’s goals or objectives.
What is a quote that inspires you?
Don’t stop when you’re tired. Stop when you’re done.
If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Find a mentor and do not be afraid to ask questions. It is how we all learn.
5 Housing Market Predictions and Opportunities for 2020
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The Covid-19 pandemic has affected some industries adversely. The housing market has seen several shifts in the pandemic season. From few houses on sale to the issuance of moratoriums by various state laws, it begs for a keen eye to forecast where the housing market is headed. In this article, you’ll get the housing market predictions for 2020. Let’s dive in.
Pent-Up Purchases Will Spike Sales
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the mortgage rates were already low, and supply was lagging. Clients who were ready to buy homes between March, April, and May still need houses. The terms for securing mortgages are even more favorable as mortgage rates have dropped significantly— currently at 2.9%.
The significant drop in the mortgage rates has seen mortgage applications rise dramatically. According to the Bankers Association, the first week of July saw an increase of 33% in mortgage applications compared to the same time last year.
Though the housing market is a volatile one, there is hope that pent-up purchases, low mortgage rates, and the growing desire by millennials to own homes will lead to a spike in sales.
Home Sales Rebounded in June
After the dip in sales that occurred earlier in the year as a result of the pandemic, June saw home sales rebound significantly. According to the National Association of Realtors, the sale of existing homes rebounded by 20.7 % in June.
The rebound in sales spans across different types of property from single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. Interestingly, first-time buyers accounted for 35% of the sales in June—a good sign that the millennial demand for homeownership can fuel home sales considerably in the coming months. Second-time homebuyers also rose to the occasion, buying 9% of the existing homes in June.
Home Prices Have Hit A Record High
Though the year began with a dip in sales, house prices haven’t gone down an inch— it’s been rising steadily. June saw the rise in the median in existing-house prices increase by 2.8%. This is the highest it has ever risen.
The fact that the price of houses has been on the rise for 100 months straight is a clear indication that the housing market could flourish significantly after the downturns caused by the pandemic.
The Demand for Homes Will Rise Post Pent-Up Purchases
Currently, the demand for homes has risen beyond what the market supply can satisfy. Thanks to low mortgage rates, which lure the renters to purchase— the low monthly mortgage is attractive, especially to first-time buyers.
Though experts agree that the demand will come down after the pent-up purchases, research indicates that the millennial demand for homeownership keeps growing, and that can sustain the industry through uncertain times.
More Supply Brews
Low inventory has created a predicament on both sides. Homeowners are enticed to sell, expecting top dollar for their home, but given the low supply on the market, finding their next home has created a problem in itself. Even though the demand is high, people may hold off listing properties for sale.
However, more supply looks promising as homebuilders’ sentiment has risen to 72%. That’s the highest it has ever been since 1999.
Also, most states classified construction as an essential service, and that has seen most builders proceed with the work. The development of new homes will ease the pressure and shake the market for upgrades.
Research by Meyers indicates that 5% of construction firms hired more workers in May. Homebuilders that took a break are resuming work, and that’s a good sign for America’s housing market.
In conclusion, the housing market might have suffered the ravages of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, these predictions point to a promising future for the housing business in general.
