October is here, bringing cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, and the anticipation of the holiday season. As Halloween approaches, the real estate market is also transitioning, creating new opportunities for both buyers and sellers. This month is all about embracing change—whether it’s in the décor of our homes or the dynamics of the housing market.
This October, the real estate market remains resilient despite some economic uncertainties. Mortgage rates have stabilized, hovering around 6%, which has kept activity steady as buyers and sellers adjust to the new normal. While some markets are experiencing a slight cooling, demand for well-priced and move-in-ready homes continues to be strong.
*Buyers’ Seasonal Advantage: With fewer buyers actively searching during the fall, serious buyers may find less competition and better negotiating opportunities.
*Sellers: Stage for Success: As days get shorter and cooler, staging becomes even more crucial. Focus on cozy touches like seasonal décor and outdoor lighting to make your property stand out.
What to Watch For:
*The Election Effect: With Presidential elections just around the corner, it’s important to keep an eye on how political outcomes can impact the housing market. Historically, home prices and market activity tend to increase post-election, and mortgage rates often experience a slight decline as market uncertainty settles. This likely means more favorable conditions for both buyers and sellers moving into the new year.
*Interest Rate Updates: The Federal Reserve’s next meeting could bring news on interest rate policies, which may impact borrowing costs. Keeping an eye on these changes is essential, especially for those planning to finance a home purchase.
Tips for the Fall Market:
Whether you’re decorating your home for a Halloween open house or prepping for Thanksgiving, seasonal touches can make a lasting impression on buyers.
In today’s market, pricing your home right from the start is key to attracting motivated buyers and avoiding long market times.
Many buyers want to settle into their new homes before the end-of-year holidays. If you’re selling, listing now can position your home as an attractive option for families looking to move before the festivities begin.
As we celebrate the season of pumpkins, costumes, and fall festivals, I’m here to help you navigate the changing market and achieve your real estate goals. Don’t hesitate to reach out for insights or to get started on your next move.
Happy Fall and Happy Halloween!
- Tia Hunnicutt, LIC #01840070
LOCAL EVENTS
Puppet Show at Children's Fairyland: Tricks & Treats – A Halloween Spooktacular
Master puppeteer Nick Barone brings his special brand of Halloween magic to the Storybook Puppet Theater. Nick, a popular Bay Area performer who died in 2014, has left this gift for the children of the Bay Area. The Storybook Puppet Theater is happy and proud to recreate this original tale for our theater’s 60th anniversary. What do you do when a group of monsters meet and greet in Fairyland? Put on a variety show, of course! Filled with lovable and friendly monsters, this comical show is designed to delight. Puppets, story, and songs by Nick Barone. Additional scenery by Annie Wong.
Hans Zimmer Live
Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival
October 19-20, 2024
San Francisco Market Data
Oakland Market Data
Livermore Market Data
San Jose Market Data
Sacramento Market Data
The Dwell 24: The Emerging Designers You Need to Know Now
This year, our annual roster of the best new talent is full of offbeat objects and unexpected materials. Call it strange furniture for strange times—surrealism is having a moment.
This Overlooked Home-Buying Hack Is More Useful than Ever
Now more than ever, the open house is your friend.
Mortgage giant predicts two interest rate cuts this year
Many “wannabe” buyers and sellers are attempting to read the tea leaves of the property market at the moment, trying to determine when mortgage costs will fall and how that event will impact the cost of homes.
Featured Oakland Listings
2
bedrooms
2
bathrooms
1,141
sqft
$649,000
Seize this rare opportunity to live around a lake with this well-maintained 2 BR, 2 BA condominium, situated in a classic mid-century modern building across the street from beautiful Lake Merritt. Located on the first floor, the 1200 sf unit features an open concept floor plan with an entire wall of sliding glass doors that provide a bright, sunny living space and a large outdoor patio adjacent to the pool. The two bedrooms are spacious: the primary bedroom features an ensuite bathroom, while the second bedroom includes a built-in Murphy bed for use as a guestroom, studio, or office. The larger main bathroom has a tub/shower and beautiful San Giorgio tile floor. The kitchen is equipped with a smooth glass top electric range for easy cleaning and extra counter space, a built-in microwave, dishwasher, and eating area. The spacious living and dining rooms, combined with the large patio space, are perfect for entertaining. Featuring include three large double-door closets, a pantry, a parking space in a secure garage, and a laundry room adjacent to the unit. Situated in the historic Lakeside District near the Chinatown, Jack London Square, the Grand Lake Farmers' Market, major theaters, Laney College, Whole Foods, cafes, bars, restaurants, gyms, and access to BART and freeways.
6
bedrooms
4
bathrooms
1,918
sqft
$939,000
This recently renovated, West Oakland duplex boasts a full three bedrooms and two baths in each unit. An outstanding opportunity for an owner occupant or for an investor offering spacious living quarters with a touch of old-world charm. Featuring original architectural details, ample natural light, new kitchens and bathrooms and a convenient location, this property is perfect for those seeking both character and modern comfort. Upgrades include: completely rebuilt front steps, new washer/dryer, new stove, refinished tub, new shower/tub tile, new light fixtures, new kitchen countertops, new dishwasher, new shower door installed, new dehumidifiers installed with continuous drainage to outside, new exterior foundation slab waterproofing added, installation of drought tolerant patio and trees), new steel privacy door/gate, new wooden gate. EV car charger and Sewer compliant! Offering memorandum available by request.
1
bedroom
2
bathrooms
900
sqft
$1,010,000
This stunning 1+bed, 2 bath cottage in one of Oakland's most desirable neighborhoods is a serene retreat nestled in the beauty of the hills. Newly constructed in 2002, this architectural gem features exposed beam ceilings, abundant natural light, radiant, heated tile floors throughout, off-street parking, and an additional room and bathroom below with a separate entrance. Perfect for relaxation and for entertaining, the entryway features French doors which open into a private, sun-filled courtyard. Once inside, soak in the extraordinary design elements of this contemporary masterpiece. The gourmet kitchen features a clever use of space in order to offer plenty of cabinet space for even the most discerning chefs. A true oasis, the upstairs bathroom features marble tile throughout, updated fixtures, and radiant tile floors. The primary bedroom is endowed with impeccable natural wood design elements and lovely verdant views of downtown Oakland/San Francisco Bay. Find yourself in nature as directly outside of the bedroom a lovely yard reveals itself. Enjoy access to excellent public/private schools, and proximity to Claremont Country Club, Temescal Regional Recreation Area, and numerous other local and regional parks. Savor the Rockridge, Piedmont, and Elmwood nightlife/shopping.
3
bedrooms
2
bathrooms
1,236
sqft
$445,000
Nestled in the vibrant Stonehurst area of Oakland, this single-story, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Contemporary-style home is character-filled and offers the perfect blend of modern design and comfortable living. The open kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and ample cabinets. Windows throughout the home fill the space with natural light. Outside, you'll find a front yard and a nice backyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Conveniently located near I-880,I-580 and minutes from Oakland International Airport, local shops, restaurants, and parks, ensuring everything you need is within reach.
$479,000
Welcome home to this stylish one bedroom, one bath, second floor condominium nestled in a verdant, gated community in Oakland’s Claremont hills. Featuring a spacious kitchen with tons of storage, abundant natural light, and an airy open floor plan, this home is tailor made for entertaining. The bedroom has a large walk-in closet and is adjacent to the roomy bathroom. The balcony, accessible from both the living room and the bedroom, is exceptionally private and features verdant views of the hills. Deeded parking is located in the garage with convenient access to the elevator. The heated pool, relaxing sauna, fully equipped gym, stylish clubhouse, and on-site HOA are conveniently located. Plenty of guest parking can be accessed throughout the complex. Your dream home awaits! Open Saturday and Sunday!
Featured Vallejo Listing
A lovely bungalow features modern amenities. It is built as a 2/2 layout, but the additional spaces can easily be converted to 4/2.This home features a spacious primary suite with an open sitting area, office space, and a luxurious soaking tub and jets. The kitchen boasts granite counters, a gas stove, tile flooring, and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy a cozy dining area flooded with natural light, laminate flooring throughout the main living areas, dual pane windows, and central heat and air conditioning. Additional highlights include a bonus room downstairs with indoor laundry facilities and a loft. Outside, discover a serene and low-maintenance backyard perfect for relaxation and entertaining, featuring a deck off the primary suite, a cement patio, and a storage shed. Located conveniently close to I-80 freeway, public transportation and the Vallejo Ferry, this home offers both comfort and convenience.
Welcome to this stunning Pebble Beach floor plan located in the heart of Trilogy, a premier 55+ resort-style community. This beautifully designed home features a spacious open layout, ideal for entertaining or creating cozy, personalized spaces. Expansive windows bathe every room in natural light, enhancing the elegant finishes and creating an inviting ambiance. With generous room sizes, you’ll have the flexibility to create a home office, art studio, gym, or whatever suits your lifestyle. Situated within a gated community, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to a wide range of amenities, including social clubs, golfing, fitness centers, pools, and scenic walking trails. Experience luxury living and an active, vibrant community in a serene and picturesque setting. This is more than just a home—it's a lifestyle!
