In retrospect, it was less complicated. Setting parameters for working with a buyer involved a handshake level of trust, a lot of excitement, dedicated time, networking efforts, careful due diligence, and a shared celebratory sip of champagne for the new home. None of this has changed except the handshake piece. As of a few days ago, a buyer/broker agreement is a mandatory document to be ratified before any property can be shown. Within this agreement, the buyer and broker agree to a fee amount owed to the broker in the event the seller is not including buyer broker remuneration in their listing strategy. Which brings up part 2 of what’s new in the marketplace. All properties posted to the Multiple Listing Service will no longer include a concession amount to the buyer’s broker. That used to be the glue that assured the buyer’s broker their payment for services after the services were performed. Now the fee amount is a determination first between buyer and broker. The seller may still provide remuneration or the buyer may choose to pay all of their brokers fee, or there could be a combination of both. It’s become an environment of options.
We’ll see how this all shakes out, but know that our focus and orientation will always remain service centric.
It’s peak produce season at the Sebastopol Farmers Market! We are stocking up on the bounty of summer at our favorite place to shop. Here are a few notable stops at the market right now:
- Singing Frog Farms: New this year is their sweet corn – perfect on the grill or in a summer salad.
- Radical Family Farms: Stop here for produce you won’t find at a big box grocery store. Lots of nutrient-dense Asian vegetables and herbs, perfect for a healthy dinner.
- Big Spoon Sauce, Co.: Founders Lani and Nate started making their chili crisp during the pandemic and they quickly found a following. Try their sauces on everything from avocado toast, to stir frys, and even ice cream!
Visit the Sebastopol Farmers Market every Sunday rain or shine from 9AM – 1:30PM
Quick Pickles
The Easiest Way To Preserve Farmers Market Produce
Cool, briny pickles from the fridge are a simple summer pleasure. Quick pickling preserves almost any summer vegetable from the market or garden, and it doesn’t require canning or a lot of vegetables. Customize this simple recipe for any fresh vegetable using different vinegars and spices.
Will bio pools replace chemical swimming pools?
After reading this article, we sure hope so!
Rex Boggs, who spent his childhood swimming in the natural ponds of Wisconsin, was a bit hesitant when his brother-in-law suggested putting in a pool in his Sebastopol backyard. That all changed when he discovered natural swimming pools that replicate nature without the harsh chemicals. His curiosity piqued, Rex teamed up with North Bay pool builder Gary McDonald, and together, they created a natural oasis complete with plants and biofilters to keep the water crystal clear. They did face some bumps in the road with plant growth at first, but the pool has flourished into a beautiful refuge for wildlife. Since then, McDonald has built 40 more of these wonderful natural pools. Despite their rarity in the U.S., due to varying tastes in water clarity and a lack of know-how, these pools are a little slice of paradise.
Mortgage rates dropped this week to their lowest level in 15 months in anticipation of growing consensus that the Fed will cut rates when they convene next month. Maybe it’s finally time to make a move? The average rate on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages dropped to 6.47%—compare that to 6.73% last week and 6.96% at the same time last year. We’re not expecting to see those once-in-a-blue-moon low rates of 2021, but compared to the high just under 8% last fall, seeing rates nudging under 6.5% again is a sight for sore eyes.
Just Listed!
2623 Olsen Road | Sebastopol
2 Beds | 1.5 Baths | 1258 SF | $865,000
This Boho Bungalow radiates character, artistic charm, and country elegance, nestled just 4 miles from downtown Sebastopol. With vaulted ceilings and custom Marvin windows, natural light pours into every corner of the home. The living room, featuring a stylish Malm fireplace, exudes a cozy atmosphere, while the fabulous kitchen and family room reflect an open and airy vibe. The adjoining deck adds personality with its outdoor shower and sauna. The detached garage, designed for a potential guest suite or ADU on the upper floor, includes an adjoining workshop engineered to support a deck above. This home and property are turnkey and ready for immediate move-in. Situated in the marine banana belt location, mornings are cooler and lead to clear blue skies and gentle breezes. You won’t want to leave this rare and enticing gem!
Just Listed!
1351 Ferguson Road | Sebastopol
3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 1773 SF | 1.23 Acres | $1,249,000
Brilliant location, just 8 minutes from downtown Sebastopol, this charming single-story home sits on 1.23 usable acres. It’s set in a quiet country neighborhood with a mix of old and new homes, providing both potential and comfort as-is. The property features new carpet, interior paint, light fixtures, and a deck. The living room, with its open beam wooden ceiling, offers views of St. Helena and an old orchard with golden delicious and Fuji apples, reflecting Sebastopol’s heritage. The dining room opens to the new deck, ideal for sunrise mornings. The home includes indoor laundry, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. It’s close to groceries, restaurants, trails, wineries, and just 15 minutes from Coastal Sonoma County.
The Fiddler Ranch | 100 Sparkes Road, Sebastopol
27.45 Acres | $2,495,000
The Fiddler Ranch, a countryside of its very own with 27.45 acres, spans 5 generations of farming and equestrian heritage, its location just 5 minutes to town, literally. Open pastures and a hobby vineyard meet a shaded perimeter of oaks and other flora that hug the bordering year round creek, its privacy an unexpected delight. Electricity is onsite, there’s irrigation throughout and the well gushes with 50 gallons per minute. Zoning allows for a one time split making it great for a large family compound, commercial farming, and equestrian center. The best part? It could be yours!Â
In Contract
10149 Occidental Road, Sebastopol
2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1398 SF | 2 acres | $1,095,000
Sold! Buyer Represented
🏡 3710 Frei Road, Sebastopol
🔑 Sold for $2,180,000
Sold! Buyer Represented
🏡 2733 Village Side Drive, Santa Rosa
🔑 Sold for $675,000
Sold!
🏡 1945 Piner Rd Spc 137, Santa Rosa
🔑 Sold for $449,000
