Breaking news from Wells Fargo:

The median price of a home in California experienced its first year-to-year gain in over two years during the month of November, as the California housing market continued recent trends in terms of prices, supply, and sales. The monthly median price crossed the $300,000 threshold in November with a median of $304,520, up 2.4 percent from the October median price of $297,500 and up 5.8 percent from $287,880 a year earlier. The situation has improved greatly from a year ago during the worst of the financial crisis, when the median price had registered 41.3 percent year-to-year decline.

After a 59 percent peak-to-trough decline, the California median price has increased 24.1 percent from a trough of $245,170 that occurred in…

We are optimistic about the coming year in Marin real estate. From a seller's standpoint the next few months are going to be very active. Because  inventory is down and we expect a 35% jump in the spring, acting sooner rather than later would be advisable and the three factors that will affect you the most as a seller are timing, pricing and marketing. Keep in mind that the more choices a buyer has, the less your home will be worth and if you have something good to offer, make sure the world knows about it.
From a buyer's standpoint, 2010 is the year to buy a home for the reasons outlined below. U.S. News and World Report  just came out with an article on why they think that this the year to buy but be careful about procrastinating, because that will hurt…

Buying a home is always an exciting decision, but it is one that takes a bit of diligence and a great deal of patience.  There are many homes available in towns across California and even in Marin County alone.  San Anselmo homes for sale offer the ideal blend of modern sophistication and suburban charm, providing prospective home buyers with a location that is certainly something special.  Whether you are seeking a glamorous and sprawling home or a smaller family accommodation, you will find that San Anselmo offers it in style.

The many San Anselmo homes for sale are quite unique, but each offers a special design.  There are certainly a fair share of prefabricated homes in the town, and especially in the Sleepy Hollow area, but even these homes offer a…

Interest rates are at historic lows but cyclical trends suggest they will soon rise. Home buyers may never see such a chance again, writes Marc Roth

By Marc Roth – Business Week

Well, you may not be stupid or broke. Maybe you already have a house and you don't want to move. Or maybe you're a Trappist monk and have forsworn all earthly possessions. Or whatever. But if you want to buy a house, now is the time, and if you don't act soon, you will regret it. Here's why: historically low interest rates.

As of today, the average 30-year fixed-rate loan with no points or fees is around 5%. That, as the graph above—which you can find on Mortgage-X.com—shows, is the lowest the rate has been in nearly 40 years.

In fact, rates are so well below historic averages…

Mill Valley is in the heart of southern Marin County, and has a magic all its own. The town is located near the bay, and is occasionally concealed in fog, but for the most part it is well known for its wonderful climate. Summer days almost never go above 90 degrees and generally stay in the mid 70’s, and the winter temperatures average in the mid 50’s. The rainy season runs from November through March, and the summer time can be quite dry.

The Mill Valley California real estate market is a luxury market, well known for its upscale homes and lifestyle. Part of the reason for this is the incredible landscape surrounding the town. Bordered by State Parks and recreation areas, the surroundings are full of hiking and nature trails, and is home of the annual…

Here we are into December and our last update called the economic outlook as "guardedly optimistic" and that opinion still holds. There is hope for recovery although no one expects the economy to spiral upwards in the coming year. There are too many unknowns with tenuous Wall Street reacting to every bit of news that comes out of the White House and the Commerce Department.  As far as Marin real estate is concerned we are seeing a warming trend in sales and home prices. We are seeing homes in every price range selling and buyers picking up some incredible buys with cheap money. The fact that rates are at an historical low (5 year ARM's at 4%!) is keeping us busy and with the right guidance in pricing and marketing, sellers are moving on and putting on the…

Incredible contemporary one-Level home completely rebuilt with open floor plan and fabulous finishes. Separate guest house, pool, gated with lawn areas front and back. A rare opportunity in Sleepy Hollow.

•4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths - plus Gym/Den

•Guest house has loft bedroom and lanai

•Approx 3,241 sq feet on almost 1/2 acre lot

Price: $1,850,000
Square Ft: 3,241
MLS #: Not on MLS
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
Year Built: 1992
Stories: 1

For more pictures click here. 

Property Features:

We just sold a home in San Anselmo at 26 Berlin Ave. in 14 days and have had several inquiries as to how that was done in this market. Here is the advice we give all sellers when they are faced with the decision of whether to sell their home or wait for better times.

First, as a seller, your motivation has to be high. Your reason for moving has to be compelling and one that moves you both emotionally and/or financially. This is not a market to test to "see what I can get." An improved quality of life both mentally and financially are good strong motivators.

Second, hire a professional who has experienced tough markets. Newer agents of the last couple years have only had the experience of being an "order taker" and not one of understanding what is…

Well known as one of the nicest communities in the country, Mill Valley is a small town with the conveniences of living close to a big city. The town is located just 12 miles from San Francisco, on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a popular spot for affluent city people looking for an escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Mill Valley, CA homes for sale are a hot commodity for those in the market.

Part of the areas appeal is its mild climate, similar to that of the Mediterranean. Summer temperatures remain in the mid 70’s for the most part, and winter temperatures rarely dip below 40, and average in the mid 50’s. November through March are the rainy months, with summer being the driest period of the year. It is normal for fog to…

If you are looking for the perfect place in California’s San Francisco Bay area to raise a family or buy a home, San Anselmo may be the perfect destination.  This upscale area offers some of the most uniquely designed and architecturally wondrous homes in the state.  With a starting price around $800,000, these homes are truly something special.  San Anselmo real estate is rather diverse, much like the landscape of the town itself.  Whether you are seeking a scenic home high in the hills or a quiet family destination in the beautiful flats, you can certainly find it here.

There are many marvelous homes to choose from in San Anselmo.  Many of these architect designed properties offer ornate embellishments, modern designs, and lavish features.  Whether you…