Drive out a country road and escape city life to enjoy your home, surrounded by nature and tranquility. Situated on approximately over 4 1/2 acres in a peaceful setting and it has much to offer!! The main house has been completely remodeled, creating modern conveniences while living in the country. Very open and airy. Rich in character and quality, finished in a style that exudes a country flair to enjoy. Adding to its charm is your own self-contained caboose – just for fun!! There is also an additional structure with a large interior area for storage of equipment, etc. plus a workshop and even a large bonus room! A lighted windmill allows for a touch of nostalgia. Cross a bridge over a stream to continue to the back of the property. A variety of fruit trees are an added bonus. Beautiful views!! If so desired, up to 4 horses are allowed. The illusion of being in a remote area gives way to realizing that shopping, dining, entertainment, services and commute access are only minutes away.
https://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2019/05/111-paulanella-blog-featured.jpg7201280adminhttps://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2022/03/caskie-transparent.pngadmin2019-05-29 18:19:542019-05-29 18:19:56JUST LISTED IN SAN RAMON!
Live the good life! Fabulous single story home on the picturesque 5th hole of the Blackhawk Country Club Lakeside Golf Course. Open floorplan w/ volume ceilings. Views of tranquil grounds from every window & slider. Sliding glass doors welcome you to backyard from Master, Dining, Living, Family & Kitchen. Lots of natural light. Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, high end gas cooktop, center island, solid granite countertops, custom cabinetry. Hardwood floors in living areas, marble tile entry, plush carpet in bedrooms. Master bedroom walk-in closet features custom organizers. Larger secondary bedrooms share updated Jack & Jill bathroom. Newer lighting & interior paint. Spacious yard with deck, patio, lawn & mature trees. Possible pool site if desired. Located within the private & serene Silver Maple gated community of Blackhawk. Just a short walk to the wonderful Blackhawk Plaza and it’s fine restaurants, shops & movie theater. Open Saturday & Sunday 1-4
https://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2019/05/332-red-maple-dr-blog-featured.jpg7201280adminhttps://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2022/03/caskie-transparent.pngadmin2019-05-29 18:15:552019-05-29 18:15:57HOT NEW PRICE IN SILVER MAPLE GATE OF BLACKHAWK!
Improving your home is a great way to not only improve its aesthetics and functionality, but it’s also an effective way to add value. Certain projects can bring in a high ROI, adding more value to your property compared to what you spend on the actual project itself.
But before you take hammer to nail, you’ll want to find out if you need a building permit for the specific task you’re undertaking. While certain minor jobs might not need a permit, others will require that a permit is a applied for and approved before you start any work.
What is a Building Permit, and What is its Purpose?
A building permit is an approval issued by your local government that basically grants you permission to take on a specific renovation project in your home. The purpose of a building permit is to make sure that the project you intend to carry out complies with local bylaws.
The reason why your project needs to adhere to these laws and standards is to ensure that the end result is a safe home for all occupants. Permits will also make sure that the project will result in a structure that’s efficient, accessible, and suitable for habitation. Further, permits will ensure that the changes you make comply with zoning requirements and land use regulations.
Applying for a building permit will come with a cost, which can range from anywhere between $450 and $1,800. The actual cost will depend on the specific location and the extent of the renovations.
There’s also a bit of a waiting period from when you apply for your permit to when you’re granted approval. You could be waiting anywhere between two to four weeks for your building permit to be processed, depending on how many permits the city has to process and how in-depth your project is.
Once you receive the building permit, you’ll need to post it up at your work site as the project gets underway. That way, if any building inspectors show up, you’ll have something ready to be shown to prove that you’ve obtained the necessary paperwork and permission to do the work.
You may also be required to have an inspector check out your work periodically at different phases of the job, depending on how in-depth and complex it is. After each phase, give the inspection office a call to have someone scope things out so you can move on to the next phase. If anything needs to be modified, you can make such changes as needed before you carry on.
Generally speaking, the majority of renovations require a couple of inspections throughout the project, including a final inspection once all the work is done. At that point, you can take the permit down from wherever you’ve posted it and enjoy the finished project.
Do You Need a Building Permit For Your Project?
Now that you know why a building permit is required, how do you know if your specific project requires one?
Make sure you check with your local building department to verify if the project you’re intending to take on needs a permit or not, as code requirements may be different from one city to the next.
That said, there are certain projects that may be exempted, such as:
Painting
Laying carpeting
Installing cabinets
Installing countertops
Tile work
Making minor plumbing or electrical repairs that don’t require the replacement of pipes or wires
Installing a fence less than 7 feet high
Construction of one-story detached structures, such as sheds or children’s playhouses no larger than 120 square feet and with no plumbing, electricity, or heating
Basically, simple repairs or improvements can be done without having to obtain a building permit. But if your project is more in-depth and involves building additions or making major changes to the major systems in your home, you’ll probably have to apply for a permit from your local building department.
What Happens if Work is Done Without a Permit?
If your project requires a permit and you perform the work without one, you could find yourself in some trouble if the local building department finds out. Many homeowners renovate and update their homes without a permit. And while most may not have any troubles, it’s still a risk.
Should an inspector catch wind of work done without a permit, you will have to go through the process of applying and paying for one. And if it’s determined that the work performed does not comply with local standards, you might be forced to tear down the project and start over.
Further, if you plan to sell in the near future, you might find that not having a permit for work performed could be an obstacle. Buyers who are aware of updates on your home may ask to see a building permit. And if you can’t produce one, it could throw a wrench in the deal if the buyer insists that you produce a permit.
The Bottom Line
Having to go through the process of applying for a building permit and covering its cost – which can be hefty – can be a bit of a nuisance. But renovating with the permission of your local jurisdiction will not only make sure that the finished product is safe for occupancy, but it will also help you avoid any hurdles if you ever want to sell in the future.
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There are plenty of terms to agree to when you sign a real estate contract to purchase a home. But one thing you likely would never agree to take over are liens on title. Unfortunately, liens can derail real estate deals and cause headaches for both buyers and sellers.
That’s precisely why it’s important for buyers to have a title search conducted on a property to have the home’s title looked into before the deal is sealed. The ideal outcome of a title search is a title that’s free and clear of any liens or legal issues with ownership. If not, that could be where the deal ends.
There are several types of liens that could throw a home sale off its tracks that all buyers should be aware of.
What is a Lien?
A lien is basically a claim that’s placed on title until a debt is paid off. It’s a flaw on title that must be rectified before a sale can be carried out, and until then, the lien will remain.
Sellers with liens on title will have to take steps to pay off the debt or deal with whatever situation caused the lien before they’re able to sell. It’s common for homeowners to begin the selling process without dealing with liens.
Whether they never bothered to deal with the liens or were not aware that they existed, not dealing with a lien appropriately can bring a real estate deal to a screeching halt.
So, what types of liens can you find on title during a home sale?
Contractor Lien
Many homeowners take on home improvement projects to repair or update their homes, which is a good idea considering how much extra value it can add to the property. But contractors expect to be paid for the work done, and if the homeowner doesn’t pay up, the contractor involved can place a lien on the title until the full debt is repaid.
Whether the homeowner withholds payment on purpose for a job they’re not satisfied with or simply didn’t have enough money to pay the entire the bill, the disgruntled contractor can slap a lien on title until they get the money owed.
Property Lien
Lenders who hand out mortgages for homes have liens on properties they finance. Technically, until the mortgage is paid off in full, the homeowner doesn’t really own the home. Instead, the lender does until the homeowner completely pays off the mortgage. Until then, a property lien will be placed on title.
This type of lien doesn’t necessarily stop a seller from selling their home. Instead, when the home is sold, the first party paid with the proceeds of the sale is the lender. Whatever money is left over can then be kept by the seller, minus all costs associated with selling real estate.
Once the home is sold and the lender is paid accordingly, the mortgage should be discharged. Unfortunately, there may be some rare cases where the mortgage is not properly discharged, which can cause problems when it comes time to sell. Regardless, this lien must be cleared up for a sale to take place.
HOA Lien
If the property in question is governed by an HOA, the association can place a lien on one of its properties if the homeowner is behind on HOA fees. Living in an HOA typically requires unit owners to pay monthly dues to cover the cost of maintenance and repairs of common elements.
But if a homeowner fails to make timely payments and becomes delinquent, the HOA can place a lien on the unit, which can throw a wrench in any potential sale.
Tax Lien
The IRS has very strict rules about how and when taxes are to be paid. There are all sorts of different taxes that Americans are required to pay, including income taxes, school taxes, sales taxes, and property taxes, to name a few.
If a homeowner has failed to pay any one of these taxes, the IRS has the power to place a lien on title. Just like any other type of lien, a tax lien puts a homeowner in the position to pay the tax amount owed – plus interest – before selling the property.
Judgment Lien
A creditor may go to court to have a legal judgment lien placed on title of a home if a consumer has not fulfilled their duty to repay all their debt. This type of lien is a court ruling that allows a creditor to take possession of a debtor’s home if any associated contractual responsibilities aren’t carried out.
Basically, a judgment lien is created when a party wins a lawsuit against a homeowner and records the judgment against the home. There could be any number of reasons for legal action to take place. Regardless, the end result may be a judgment lien, which must be dealt with before the home can be sold.
The Bottom Line
Liens are a nuisance, both for buyers and sellers. But if a lien is found on title of a home, that doesn’t necessarily mean that a transaction can’t take place, as long as the lien is dealt with accordingly and taken off title. Until then, the deal will likely be stalled.
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For most of us, our bedroom is little more than a place to sleep and relax. However, just because it’s always been that way doesn’t mean that we have to settle for drab and dreary.
One trend that’s gaining steam these days is converting your current bedroom into a luxury suite (or something comparable). If you want to live like you’re renting a room at the Ritz, then you want to follow these tips.
Compartmentalize Your Activities
Making your bedroom more functional is going to make it more luxurious. Add a gorgeous desk for working and a TV area for entertainment, and you’ll be living it up in no time.
Make it Chic
Choose a color palette that is both luxurious and classy. Silver and gold can seem tacky, so choose muted shades that compliment each other. Also, a brilliant and commanding headboard can instantly upgrade the look of your room without any other changes.
Light it Properly
Finally, make sure that you have the right light to show off your designs. If it’s too washed out or yellow, then it will look drab and run down. Switch to brilliant LEDs and see the difference.
Choose Your Accents Wisely
We already mentioned a headboard, but some elegant drapes can also make your room feel more royal. Being strategic with your furniture accessories is going to both keep you under budget and avoid doing too much with the space.
Are you ready to lux your bedroom? You’ll be impressed by the results, and the feeling of decadence will make you more confident in your surroundings.
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You’ve most likely heard the rule: Save for a 20-percent down payment before you buy a home. The logic behind saving 20 percent is solid, as it shows that you have the financial discipline and stability to save for a long-term goal. It also helps you get favorable rates from lenders.
But there can actually be financial benefits to putting down a small down payment—as low as three percent—rather than parting with so much cash up front, even if you have the money available.
THE DOWNSIDE
The downsides of a small down payment are pretty well known. You’ll have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance for years, and the lower your down payment, the more you’ll pay. You’ll also be offered a lesser loan amount than borrowers who have a 20-percent down payment, which will eliminate some homes from your search.
THE UPSIDE
The national average for home appreciation is about five percent. The appreciation is independent from your home payment, so whether you put down 20 percent or three percent, the increase in equity is the same. If you’re looking at your home as an investment, putting down a smaller amount can lead to a higher return on investment, while also leaving more of your savings free for home repairs, upgrades, or other investment opportunities.
THE HAPPY MEDIUM
Of course, your home payment options aren’t binary. Most borrowers can find some common ground between the security of a traditional 20 percent and an investment-focused, small down payment. Your trusted real estate professional can provide some answers as you explore your financing options.
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Ever wish you could become one of those rare morning people? The ones that wake with a start, feeling refreshed and energized. The ones that get in that morning workout or wrap up some work before many of us even hit the snooze button for the first time. Here are five tips to help you achieve that early bird status!
1. Create a morning schedule
Physically write down the things you’d like to complete in the morning and set a time for each. Then stick with it. Once you force yourself out of bed early one or two weeks consistently, you’ll find it gets easier and easier to do.
2. Let the light in
Whether natural or artificial, light tells your brain its time to get up and get going. If your room lacks large windows where you can open the blinds up, consider investing in a timed lamp or alarm clock with a light.
3. Prep and eat breakfast
Although there are many of us who chose the skip breakfast, it is key to perking up your energy in the morning. Try prepping protein-focused meals the night before or grab a yogurt or fruit and try to consume it right after you wake.
4. Get your body moving
Whether it’s a short walk around your neighborhood or a rigorous 5:30 am spin class, getting your blood pumping will help wake up your body and has a ton of other benefits, like stress and anxiety reduction.
5. Feed your mind
Stimulate your brain and do something you enjoy first thing in the morning. Try reading a favorite book, catching up on the news, doing daily meditation, or setting intentions.
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Live the good life! Fabulous single story home on the picturesque 5th hole of the Blackhawk Country Club Lakeside Golf Course. Open floorplan w/ volume ceilings. Views of tranquil grounds from every window & slider. Sliding glass doors welcome you to backyard from Master, Dining, Living, Family & Kitchen. Lots of natural light. Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, high end gas cooktop, center island, solid granite countertops, custom cabinetry. Hardwood floors in living areas, marble tile entry, plush carpet in bedrooms. Master bedroom walk-in closet features custom organizers. Larger secondary bedrooms share updated Jack & Jill bathroom. Newer lighting & interior paint. Spacious yard with deck, patio, lawn & mature trees. Possible pool site if desired. Located within the private & serene Silver Maple gated community of Blackhawk. Just a short walk to the wonderful Blackhawk Plaza and it’s fine restaurants, shops & movie theater. Open Saturday & Sunday 1-4
https://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2019/05/332-red-maple-dr-blog.jpg7201280adminhttps://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2022/03/caskie-transparent.pngadmin2019-05-09 14:53:182019-05-09 14:53:20JUST LISTED IN SILVER MAPLE GATE OF BLACKHAWK!
What a find! Approximately almost 2/3 of an acre flat with oodles of potential!! Enjoy the peaceful approach to this home – like being out in the country! Creeks to jump in, hills to climb, always something to do. Wonderful floor plan! Very open concept with a great room and waiting for someone to make it shine!! Separate workshop, mature trees and more – so many possibilities!! Located close to “cosmopolitan” Walnut Creek and all its conveniences while living in a “country setting”.
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Impressive and Inviting! This beautiful remodeled Vintage Hills home has much to offer. Wonderful location, with a delightful ambience and privacy. Enter through a courtyard setting to a grand welcome. Handsome hardwood floors lead into an open floor plan with volume ceilings. Strikingly updated and enhanced with many improvements, including lighting and expansion. Large back yard has nature as its backdrop. The feeling and sounds of a forest with a babbling brook is apparent while you enjoy nature. No rear neighbors add to its privacy. The lovely grounds offer much for your outdoor activities, hobbies and relaxation includes raised planters for the avid gardener. A patio, decks and lush lawn area. A storage shed for your equipment and gardening needs. Additional electrical utilities (electric car charger) and Vivint solar.
https://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2019/05/3567-touriga-sold.jpg7201280adminhttps://caskierealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2022/03/caskie-transparent.pngadmin2019-05-08 20:12:072019-05-08 20:12:09SALE PENDING IN VINTAGE HILLS OF PLEASANTON!
