Think “big picture”. This kitchen turned off a lot of buyers but the one that bought the home has already seen an increase in value of over $500,000 in two years.       1) Do your homework on comparable sales, noise factors, crime and schools (even if you don’t have kids because good schools help values). 2) Once your offer is accepted, order a property inspection, termite/pest inspection and roof inspection. If on a hillside, investigate potential drainage and erosion issues. 3) Make purchase subject to your acceptance of property condition, homeowners association rules and reserves (if applicable), the appraisal, and getting a the loan. 4) Get a 2nd or 3rd opinion on the home. Consider knocking on doors of nearby homes to meet neighbors and inquire about potential nuisances. Things to avoid 1) Try to avoid properties that are on a busy road or back to one, are close to active railroads, airports and freeways. 2) Try to avoid locations next to a stop sign or traffic light, a commercial property, large electrical towers or cemeteries. 3) Try to avoid unusual addresses such as 444, 666 or unacceptable feng shui numbers. Things that are good 1) For Houses: four bedrooms are better than three, two bathrooms are better than one, a two car garage is better than a one car garage, and so on. 2) For Townhouses and Condos: fewer attached walls are better, end units are better, garages better than carports and inside laundry better than common laundry rooms. Areas to buy for investment 1) In Contra Costa County, start with the schools. Good or improving school score will give you better odds for appreciation. Shorter distance to freeways and/or BART (but not too close). Prestigious towns are usually a solid choice – Lafayette over Pleasanton Hill, Walnut Creek over Concord, Danville over San Ramon as examples. 2) In Alameda County, again, start with the schools. Shorter distance to freeways and/or BART is good, prestigious towns – Pleasanton over Dublin, Castro Valley over Hayward (try for Castro Valley schools), San Leandro over most of Oakland. 3) More strategy – don’t buy the nicest home on the street. The one that is less expensive than others because it needs work, and you can do the work, is often best. Or, being a less expensive home surrounded by more expensive ones. Buying for enjoyment 1) Convenience – consider your time in life. If you are busy at work with not much time to keep up your home, consider a low maintenance condo, townhouse or new home. Also consider the amenities that can come with homeowner associations – pools you don’t have to maintain or common areas and facilities near your door step. 2) Commute & happiness - If you are unhappy at your home, or dread the commute to work, it can offset the appreciation you earn. There needs to be some balance to the real estate investment you make and how practical it is for your lifestyle. If you have any questions on this information, or questions on any real estate matters, please contact Glenn at 925 925-7555.