How Much is a Granny Unit Worth?

I received an email the other day from a gentleman who was wondering how much is a granny unit worth in Santa Cruz? That's an…

Water Conservation and Quality Issues for the Homeowner

I recently did a Google Hangout with Gerry Bulfin of CleanWaterStore.com in Santa Cruz, California. We spent a half hour or so talking about water…

Wise Words to Aid Home Buyers

Sometimes the reporting on the world of real estate gets so caught up in the rapidly changing landscape that the elements of buying and selling…

To TIC, or Not to TIC…

It's been around for ages, really - holding title as "Tenants in Common" is one of the most popular ways to hold title - for…

A Word about Encroachments

So my real estate topic-du-jour is encroachment, as I spent an hour or two dealing with an issue I have with an upcoming listing.  It…

Repairing Cracks in Stucco and Drywall

Is there an easy and affordable method for repairing cracks in stucco and drywall? The other day I was out inspecting a house with a…

Asbestos in the Home

Asbestos in the home is an issue faced by many home owners and buyers. Asbestos is a heat resistant, fibrous "silicate" material which can be…

Santa Cruz Fire Safety

There are many homes in Santa Cruz county that are in wildfire and forest fire hazard areas. With all the fires raging this year, it's…

Property Tax Rates for Santa Cruz Real Estate

So, for example, if you purchase a $500,000 property, the assessed value will be $500,000 and the property tax will be 1% of that, or…

That 50% Increase in 13 Months

If you read my last post, you may be wondering, "How did my clients buy a property and then 13 months later have it appraised…