Part 2: How to Reduce Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your Home

2 Strategies to Avoid or Reduce Capital Gains Tax

In our previous blog, we discussed how to avoid capital gains tax on Bay Area single-family homes, which have roughly quadrupled in value over the past 25 years. In 1999, the average single-family home in San Mateo County sold for approximately $600,000. Today, that average has soared to $2,500,000, especially in communities like San Carlos and Redwood City. While this increase benefits those who purchased their homes years ago, many long-term homeowners now feel trapped by the substantial capital gains taxes they would face if they decided to sell.

Over the past 25 years, the average single-family home has appreciated by $1,900,000. Even with the $500,000 exemption for a married couple, $1,400,000 remains subject to taxation. Between capital gains and state taxes, a married couple would likely face around $500,000 in taxes (approximately 35%) if they had bought their home 25 years ago. The prospect of a $500,000 tax bill leaves most people feeling paralyzed.

There are two common ways to either reduce or outright avoid capital gains taxes. Here we will discuss Strategy : Reducing Capital Gains Taxes.

How to Reduce Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your Home

Strategy : Reduce Capital Gains Tax

Unlike the 1031 Exchange strategy we discussed previously, this strategy does not require you to rent out your home and wait four years to move into your new place. Instead, you sell your home and can keep some cash tax-free, with the remainder going into an annuity. In the above example, a married couple could sell their home and keep $1,100,000 tax-free ($600,000 purchase price plus the $500,000 exemption). This amount could be used to buy a new home in a less expensive area, invest it, or save it.

Structure an Installment Sale

Assuming your old home was fully paid off, you would still have around $1,250,000 left after paying the selling costs. This amount, considered pure profit, would be subject to taxes. By placing this amount into a structured installment account, it can be paid back to you over a period of 3 to 40 years, depending on your preference. The key is to keep the annual repayment amount low enough to stay in lower tax brackets.

For example, if you keep your annual repayment below $500,000, you could reduce your capital gains taxes by about 10% (from 35% to 25%). If the proposed Biden tax increases occur, you could save even more.

If you opt for a low repayment of $47,000 per year or less, you would pay zero federal taxes, only state taxes. This strategy allows you to get some money upfront without taxes, reduce the taxes owed on the remaining amount, and avoid becoming a landlord for your old home.

Other Important Considerations

  • Fixed Terms: Once the annuity terms are set (repayment period), they cannot be changed.
  • Modest Return: The annuity return is around 4% per year.
  • Buyer Cooperation: Some cooperation from the homebuyer is required, which demands finesse.

Contact Us Today

If this sounds interesting, call us, and we can help formulate a strategy that works best for you. These tax strategies require the involvement of specific professionals, and we can connect you with the right experts.

Please consult with your accountant to understand how a 1031 Exchange or structured installment sale would impact your unique tax situation and to stay updated on frequently changing tax rules.

Part 1: How to Avoid Capital Gains Taxes When Selling Your Home

Bay Area single-family home values have approximately quadrupled over the past 25 years. In 1999, the average single-family home in San Mateo County sold for around $600,000. Today, the average price has risen to $2,500,000, reflecting significant growth in communities such as San Carlos and Redwood City. While this increase is beneficial for those who purchased their homes many years ago, many long-term homeowners feel constrained by the capital gains taxes they would incur if they sold their properties today. Therefore, it is crucial for homeowners to understand how to minimize or avoid capital gains taxes when selling their homes.

Over the past 25 years, the average single-family home has appreciated by $1,900,000. Even with a $500,000 exemption for a married couple, $1,400,000 remains subject to taxation. Between capital gains and state taxes, a married couple who bought a home 25 years ago would likely face a tax bill of around $500,000 (approximately 35%). The prospect of a $500,000 tax bill leaves many homeowners feeling paralyzed.

There are two common methods to reduce or completely avoid capital gains taxes. Here, we will focus on the first strategy: avoiding the taxes entirely.

Strategy : Avoid Capital Gains Taxes

A 1031 Exchange is a tax rule that allows investors to sell their investment property and purchase another investment property without paying taxes, regardless of how much the property has appreciated in value. Here’s how you can apply this strategy if you are currently living in your home:

  1. Rent Out Your Home: Move out and rent your home for approximately 2 years. During this time, you may need to rent another home for yourself.
  2. Sell and Purchase: After renting your home for 2 years, sell it and buy another property. The new property must also be rented out for about 2 years.
  3. Move In: Once the new property has been rented for 2 years, you can move in and make it your primary residence.

Important Points About 1031 Exchanges:

  1. Strict Timelines: The IRS has strict timelines that must be followed between selling the old home and purchasing the new property.
  2. Use a 1031 Intermediary: You must use a 1031 intermediary, as you cannot receive the sale proceeds directly.
  3. Equal or Greater Value: The property you purchase must be of equal or greater value than the one you sold. Otherwise, you will pay taxes on the difference.
    • For example, if you sell your home for $2,500,000 and buy a new one for $2,100,000, you will pay taxes on the $400,000 difference. Alternatively, you could sell your $2,500,000 home and buy two or three homes in a less expensive area, with the combined value being equal to or greater than $2,500,000. You can then move into one of the new homes as your residence and keep the others as investment properties.

Additional Considerations:

  • Property Management: Being a landlord can be challenging, but you can hire a property manager to handle the rental for you. This service typically costs around 8% of the rent and is tax-deductible.
  • Future Capital Gains: If you decide to sell the new home later, capital gains taxes will apply. However, if you keep the home until you pass away, under current tax rules, your heirs may be able to sell it without having to pay taxes.

Using a 1031 Exchange can be a complex but effective way to defer capital gains taxes and strategically manage your real estate investments.

Taxes Could Increase Significantly

The Biden administration is proposing raising the top capital gains tax rate from 20% to 40% for individuals earning over $1,000,000. With state taxes and an increase in healthcare taxes, overall capital gains taxes in California could reach up to 58%. This means that instead of paying approximately $500,000 in taxes, as in the previous example, you could face a tax bill of around $890,000.

Risk to 1031 Exchanges

The 1031 Exchange strategy, which allows you to defer capital gains taxes by swapping properties, has been effective for many years. However, there is uncertainty as the Biden administration is considering eliminating 1031 Exchanges. You might start the process of renting out your home only to discover that this strategy is no longer available. If that happens, you could still choose to move back into your property or explore other tax reduction strategies, such as the Capital Gains Reduction Strategy , which will be covered in our next blog.

Contact Us Today

If this situation concerns you, contact us to develop a strategy tailored to your needs. These tax strategies require the expertise of specialized professionals, and we can connect you with the right experts to assist you.

Please consult with your accountant to understand how a 1031 Exchange might impact your specific tax situation and to stay updated on tax rule changes, which frequently occur.

About the Author

Know more about Mark and Viv of Vabrato Real Estate

An Interview with George Houston, Owner of Bins 2B Cleaned

Attention San Carlos parents: Do your kids ever take out the trash? Then this is a must-read. Let’s be honest, most of us probably don’t clean our garbage bins regularly, if at all. But did you know that dangerous bacteria like Salmonella, E.coli, and Listeria can thrive in those bins if left uncleaned?

These bacteria can cause anything from mild to severe infections, leading to issues like diarrhea, UTIs, pneumonia, meningitis, bacteremia, and in severe cases, spinal fluid infections.

To put it into perspective, the CDC estimates that Salmonella alone causes over a million illnesses, thousands of hospitalizations, and hundreds of deaths in the US each year. E. Coli is no joke either, with tens of thousands of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations annually.

These stats should make us all sit up and take notice of bin cleanliness. Luckily, one San Carlos resident has come up with a solution.

Meet George Houston, a US Marine veteran and longtime San Carlos resident. After a career in law enforcement spanning over 25 years, George retired gracefully and started his own business: the first semi-automated trash-bin cleaning service in town. Launched in March 2021 during the pandemic, Bins 2B Cleaned now serves over 300 homes in San Mateo County, mostly in Redwood City and San Carlos.

Using pressurized hot water and an EPA-approved deodorizer, Bins 2B Cleaned leaves your bin sparkling and smelling fresh. Born in Bakersfield and raised in Foster City, George has deep roots in the area. After serving in the military, he met his wife while working at JCPenney, and they’ve been happily married for over 20 years, raising their children, now teenagers, in San Carlos.

Bins 2B Cleaned 4

We understand you started your business in March 2021, and that you are the first one to offer this kind of service in San Mateo? Sounds amazing!

I actually came across someone cleaning bins on social media. Intrigued, I dove into research and knew this was something San Mateo County needed!

I’m not the first but very close. I believe there was someone else that attempted the business prior to me but I don’t have any concrete information on that just word of mouth.

It’s been more than two years! 😊How has business been and what kind of feedback have you been getting from your customers?

I am very grateful to say Bins 2B Cleaned is doing extremely well! We have over 300 customers with recurring plans and have had several one-time customers. I have been receiving wonderful feedback, along with several glowing Google Reviews!

I am so fortunate with the amazing customers and community in San Mateo County, we haven’t had one person disappointed with their service!

What area in San Mateo do you have the most customers in? How have you been reaching out to the people in San Carlos?

We service from South San Francisco to Palo Alto, both residential and commercial. I believe Redwood City has the most customers with San Carlos a close second.

From your experience, why should people have their bins cleaned regularly and what dangers can they avoid by doing this?

Having dirty cans not only invites pesky animals like racoons, flies and maggots. It also invites dangerous bacteria into your home! Salmonella, E. Coli are just a couple of the bacteria’s that can grow in your garbage cans.

Being a parent myself, it was never something I even thought I should be concerned about, but after learning all the bacteria’s that can be passed through my garbage cans to my family – they haven’t been dirty since!

It’s a no brainer and something I recommend to everyone! That’s not something you want to be exposed too!

How long does it take to clean the bins? And what chemicals do you use?

Our service typically takes between 20-40 minutes. It depends on a few factors including how dirty the can is. Nothing is ever done halfway at Bins 2B Cleaned, and all cans are cleaned thoroughly with care!

The cleaning process- we start with high pressurized water that reaches temperatures over 190°F. The water pressure will remove any liquids or food that rodents and bacteria feed on. The water temperature disinfects the trash can, removing any existing bacteria sitting inside.

All waste water is collected in the truck’s waste tank and properly disposed of offsite and the trash cans are deodorized with an EPA-approved formula.

Bins 2B Cleaned 3

About San Carlos

What do you like best about this town?

I love everything about San Carlos! My wife and I have been fortunate enough to have raised our 3 children here! Although all have graduated we have loved the school district, the sports programs, and the 4-H program in San Carlos.

In almost 30 years of living in this town, what do you think has changed over the years, and was it for better or for worst? What improvements do you hope to see?

The biggest change I have seen in San Carlos is the number of people and the all of the new housing. Yet it still has kept the small town feel, my wife and I fell in love with almost 30 years ago!

Can you name your favorites in San Carlos: (1) your favorite restaurant, (2) your favorite shop, (3) favorite event in town-

One of my favorite restaurants is Town and can of course never turn down a Nothing Bundt Cakes.

One of my favorite activities here is hometown days! When my kids were small they participated in Treasure Hunters and that really gets the kids into the history of the town!

San Carlos has been the best place in all stages of my life! From a newlywed, new parent, navigating teenagers, and now a business owner, it is truly the city of good living!

Contact George at Bins 2B Cleaned

Resources

An Interview with Chef Geoffroy Raby of Cuisinett

When Cuisinett announced its closure on Instagram on November 25th, the community felt a deep sadness, reminiscing about the wonderful memories shared during its 12-year run. But amidst the gloom, Chef Geoffroy brought a glimmer of hope, revealing plans for a new venture that lifted the spirits of loyal customers and friends.

For over a decade, Cuisinett had been a beloved spot in San Carlos for French cuisine. However, challenges stemming from the pandemic and the closure of Laurel Street to traffic gradually took their toll. Ultimately, these difficulties led the team to bid farewell to their cherished location in search of new opportunities.

Chef Geoffroy expressed gratitude to everyone who had been part of Cuisinett for 12 years – from staff to customers. Throughout the holiday season, he generously shared glimpses of his adventures in France, both in Paris and his hometown of Lille, offering insight into the inspiration behind his culinary passion.

Interview with Geoffroy Raby, Owner of Cuisinett

In this interview, Chef Geoffroy shares with us glimpses of his life – the place where he grew up in France, his journey to the US, and small hints of his plans after Cuisinett. Arriving in the Land of Opportunity with little more than a dream and a determination to succeed, Chef Geoffroy’s journey in the restaurant business began with humble roots. Through hard work, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to his craft, Chef Geoffroy was able to start his first restaurant – Cuisinett.

Lille of France seems like a romantic town, filled with beautiful streets and architecture – what was it like growing up there? What do you like the most from Lille?

Lille is the fifth largest city in France. Growing up there was great, since it is a city full of history. Our old town is really beautiful as well as the surrounding area. The real problem is the weather. It is very overcast and rainy most of the year. I was very fortunate to grow up in an area full of history. We would also often go to Belgium. Also, people from Lille and the North of France are generally known to be very welcoming.

Paris

Paris, France

You mentioned you had dreamt of coming to the US since age 15? What sparked this dream in you?

I have been dreaming of coming to the US since I was 15 years old and the simple answer is the “American Dream”. I have always felt that there were so many more opportunities in the US, especially the Bay Area. Today, I am very happy to confirm that the US provided me and my family a beautiful life.

Geoffrey And Vabrato

Geoffroy with San Carlos Life Hosts Viv Kelvin and Mark Martinho

How were your first years in the US? How was it like, going to school full time while working in restaurants?

The first few years were a bit tough as my English level was really low. I had to start in the 1st ESL class at the University but I could quickly catch on.

I studied Business Marketing and Finance and I wanted to be in New Product Development or Advertisement. However, to make money and live here in the Bay Area, I needed to find a job quickly. I started to work in a restaurant, and that prompted me to do most of my business projects at the University about opening a restaurant. That’s where I fell in love with the restaurant industry.

Going to school fulltime and working in a restaurant fulltime was not the easiest but it taught me discipline, hard work and learning how to balance school, work and personal life.

Was there a special moment in your life when you realized, you wanted to do restaurants?

I knew I wanted to open a restaurant after my 2nd year in college. I loved the excitement of working in a restaurant, the dynamics between servers, busboys, host, cook, chefs or even dishwashers. I love the hospitality part of owning and working in a restaurant. We open our doors to make people happy every time they visit our restaurant. We give wonderful gifts to our guests. It is not easy everyday and our industry is facing some tremendous challenges but the love of sharing food and experiences is so exciting.

Geoffroy with owner of Delizie, dining at Town Restaurant

Geoffroy with owner of Delizie, dining at Town Restaurant

Cuisinett has been in San Carlos for over 12 years, and I’m sure the loyal customers in San Carlos are waiting for where you will open next. Can you share with us, what do you love most about Cuisinett, and your most beautiful memories with your staff and customers?

The past 12 years in San Carlos have been so great and the community has been so welcoming. As my lease was getting finished and someone made an offer to buy the location, I knew it was time. Also, the fact that Laurel Street will remain closed to traffic pushed my decision to sell. It is great to take the time to reflect and work on what is coming next.

I do want to reopen a new Cuisinett Bistro but I am also open to exploring new opportunities within my industry. For now, I started to do some restaurant consulting while working on my projects. It might be a new restaurant or it will be either a product or a service to the restaurant industry. Time will tell.

Cuisinett Bistro

Cuisinett Bistro

How did you and your wife meet? What’s the best thing about being a father?

I met my wife in San Francisco. She was born in the Philippines but she grew up in Hawaii mostly, then she moved to San Jose. We met in the City. We’ve been married for the past 21 years and we have 12 years old twin boys. We live in Redwood Shores and love to support our community. You can find us after supporting our local businesses in Redwood Shores, San Carlos, Belmont, and other local cities.

Can you tell us more about your recent trip to Paris in terms of inspiration and the restaurants you visited? What dishes you enjoyed the most and the restaurants you visited?

My last trip to France back in January was great. My mom came to visit us for the holidays and I decided to go back to France with her for 10 days. It was our little mom-and-son trip. We had a great time visiting Reims (Champagne Capital), Lyon and Uzes. I then went back to Lille where I grew up to visit my father and my sister. We had a great time and I finished in Paris.

Every time I go back to France, I get a lot of inspiration about restaurant design and what makes a Bistro different from a Brasserie or a Café. I also love to eat our local specialties. For example, in Lille, the food will be completely different than in Reims or Lyon. This is what makes French Cuisine so good.

Lille

Lille, France

About San Carlos Real Estate and Homes for Sale

San Carlos is host to an array of restaurants famous across the Bay Area. Rightly called the “City of Good Living”, it is a wonderful place to live in! As per San Carlos Real Estate, homes are in the mid-price range for the Peninsula, but still not as expensive as areas like Palo Alto or Menlo Park; a desirable community to live in due to its overall well-performing school system – in fact, top in the whole of California.

As a resident, you’ll find here a mix of quiet neighborhoods and nearby city perks, with beautiful nature parks, and lots of things to do. Whether you enjoy shopping in boutique stores or exploring nature trails, there’s something for everyone. Being very close to Silicon Valley, San Carlos Real Estate is a smart choice for buying a home or investing in property. If you need help navigating through town for beautiful homes for sale, contact us today and we’ll be happy to be of service.

Resources:

Interview with SC Noodle House Owner, Christian Conte

SC Noodle House burst onto the San Carlos scene in November 2023 with five-star reviews and drawing customers from far and wide. We recently had the pleasure of chatting with Christian Conte, the brains behind both SC Noodle House and the iconic Drakes of San Carlos. A hometown hero, Conte envisioned the Noodle House as a hub for bringing the community together in this beloved town – a mission deeply rooted in his love for it and its people.

But brace yourself before stepping through those doors. Entering SC Noodle House is akin to stepping onto the set of a classic Kung Fu film, minus the martial arts prowess. However, you might just get challenged to a Karaoke showdown by the awesome bartender.

With walls adorned in Chinese cloud graffiti, bamboo accents, traditional artwork, and the warm glow of red and yellow lanterns drifting overhead, SC Noodle House is a veritable feast for the eyes and the Instagram feed.

Beyond its delectable Asian fare, SC Noodle House is poised to become San Carlos’s ultimate melting pot of fun, where the quirky, the elegant, the wild, and the whimsical all can happen at the same time. It’s a space where you can revel in the essence of San Carlos, forging new connections and rekindling old flames.

So, keep your eyes peeled for their next move! From Karaoke Nights to Jeopardy showdowns, Sip and Paint sessions, and the infamous 10 Pound Noodle Challenge, there’s something for everyone. Bring along your furry friends, gather around the firepit with pals, and unwind in style. What better way to kick off the weekend?

Interview about the SC Noodle House

Sc Noodle House Interview 3

So I’m just going to shoot away with the questions! In a place where pizza and pasta abound, the SC Noodle House is a much awaited addition to the roster of restaurants in San Carlos. What can you say about this?

So the Noodle House is an Asian Fusion restaurant. We’re happy to serve all the different types of Asian culture. I grew up in San Carlos, I was born and raised here, and I’m really just trying to do something different and I thought we really needed some more yummy Asian food. I’m a huge fan of Pho and other Asian Cuisine. We have really good chicken wings – salt and pepper chicken wings – and Korean-style tacos.

It’s a really dark vibe in there. Yummy cocktails. We have an outdoor patio. Just trying to be unique and separate ourselves from the other establishments in San Carlos.

Sc Noodle House Interview 5

Well it’s not that dark, it’s really nice with the neon lights and all, it’s like that “Pirates of the Caribbean” Vibe, you know, classic and modern at the same! The next question, since you opened, what are your best-selling menu items so far, and which would you recommend?

Ooh, well, I’m biased. I like the whole menu. I think it’s all delicious. Our top sellers right now are the Pho, our New York Pho. We’re big on high-end quality types of food, so our meat inside the Pho is New York, which is different from traditional Pho. We also sell a lot of Garlic Truffle Noodles, which are super addicting, you’ll be craving those for days to come. And then our next, we have Bahn-Mi Sandwiches.

And then I would say our Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are very popular as well. We have a lot of vegetarian options too. So if you wanted Crispy Tofu or Burmese Salad, Chinese Chicken Salad… just really trying to hit all sectors.

Sc Noodle House Interview 4

I’ve been watching your Instagram and I saw the events you’ve been doing at the place – like Mario Kart Challenge? Can you tell us more about it?

Yes, so we do a few events. We do Karaoke Nights regularly every Saturday from about 9:00 PM till 12:00 MD, and then we just try to make it fun. We had a Mario Kart tournament at the back patio. We have other events where you can sign up to join, and the winner gets a prize. We’re going to do Jeopardy Night soon, and we’ll just keep trying to put up games and (just do our part in) making San Carlos a strong community. Bring people together. We thought that games are a fun way to do that.

I’ve heard about the 10 Pound Pho Challenge! When are you going to do that?

We’ll probably roll that out in the next couple weeks here. The Pho Challenge is a fun food competition and we’re just trying to do something different; draw these competitive eaters, and you know – put yourself to the test if you can finish the 10 pounds of Pho. It’s a lot of food!

We’re also going to have our first ever wine “Sip and Paint”. Basically, we’re going to have an artist, a local artist, her name is “Joyce” and she will be teaching painting classes at the back. We’re excited about that. (It’ll be a) fun spot to come, enjoy some yummy cocktails and appetizers, and make some fun drawings.

Wow, that’s interesting! I think this is the first restaurant I’ve heard in San Carlos that really does all these things in one place!

Yes, I’m trying to make it a fun spot! I mean, the Noodle House is supposed to be, you know, “everybody’s welcome no matter what”, and just a fun place to be in.

We even love our furry friends. We have the back patio, which is a dog-friendly spot. And we’re just trying to make it into a fun hangout: Asian fusion bites with Craft Cocktails. So, really trying to hit that as a home run.

Well, this is another question here. I understand you have Karaoke Night. So, what do you think, are the people in San Carlos good singers? And have you met anyone surprisingly talented so far?

Good question, funny. I would say so far it’s been great. Everybody’s been singing and having a fun time. I had this one gentleman who was a really good singer. I’m trying to think of a song he sang. But it’s really everybody! What’s fun about karaoke is that everybody gets to sing their favorite song. So it’s a wide range of different types of songs, which is always fun. So you get to hear all these different types of genres of songs that are maybe new or could be old classics, which are great too.

On an ending note, well, do you have any message for the readers of this blog?

Just come check out the SC Noodle House. It’s a fun spot for everybody. We have the dog-friendly back patio, TV’s out there with the fire pit… The next couple weeks we’re going to do our first ever painting class in the back. So please give yourself a hand. Sign up and come sing some Karaoke and don’t be shy.

Christian, thank you so much for your time here. We’re happy to support everything you’re doing in the restaurant. 

I appreciate you putting together the articles and publishing others, not just me, in San Carlos and really trying to build a community because that’s very important in making everybody feel welcome. So I appreciate you guys doing what you do too.

Sc Noodle House Interview 1

—-

About Christian

Christian Conte has been working in restaurants since he was 17, filling most positions eateries have to offer, including working as a busser, bartender and manager. As a student, he started bussing tables and then worked as a host, server, barback, bartender, shift leader, manager and general manager. “First, it was an after school job, after baseball and football,” Conte says. “Then I thought, ‘Wow. I could do this for a living.’” Opening a restaurant has always been a dream of his.

“I always say I’m not in the restaurant business. I consider myself in the people business, and it’s all about the experience,” said Conte. “I’m a very hands-on guy and very family-oriented. I feel God is blessing me with a family that supports me, and I want to share that with the city and make a welcoming spot in the city for people to come and feel love,” said Conte.

Christian’s cousin, Nathan, also runs a café in town called Groovy Goose, come visit them too!

About San Carlos Real Estate and Homes for Sale

 In addition to SC Noodle House and Groovy Goose, San Carlos is host to an array of restaurants famous across the Bay Area. Rightly called the “City of Good Living”, it is a wonderful place to live in! As per San Carlos Real Estate, homes are in the mid-price range for the Peninsula, but still not as expensive as areas like Palo Alto or Menlo Park; a desirable community to live in due to its overall well-performing school system – in fact, top in the whole of California.

As a resident, you’ll find here a mix of quiet neighborhoods and nearby city perks, with beautiful nature parks, and lots of things to do. Whether you enjoy shopping in boutique stores or exploring nature trails, there’s something for everyone. Being very close to Silicon Valley, San Carlos Real Estate is a smart choice for buying a home or investing in property. If you need help navigating through town for beautiful homes for sale, contact us today and we’ll be happy to be of service.

Resources:

The Story of The Reading Bug – An Interview with Owner Lauren Savage

We are privileged and thankful to the owner of the beloved Reading Bug of San Carlos, Lauren Savage, for sharing her heart and life with us in this interview. Many of us know the magic of The Reading Bug to the kids and families of San Carlos, but few know of the challenges and victories it took to last this long. If fact, The Reading Bug will be celebrating their 20th year in business in 2028.

The Story of The Reading Bug

Did you know? Families from all over the US and the world would visit San Carlos just the meet Lauren at the Reading Bug, and that Reading Bug Adventure Podcast has over 5 million downloads worldwide! On the other hand, when COVID hit, Lauren had to lay off all the staff and sat alone inside the store for the first 3 months handing books out the door, shipping boxes and hand delivering to keep the store alive.

Sadly, the Reading Bug is just one of many stores struggling to survive and being pushed out by rising rents on Laurel Street.

It will be a shame to see the Reading Bug go and become just another one of the empty storefronts on Laurel Street. This will be a closing that may mark the downfall of the downtown of San Carlos as we know it.We want to thank Lauren for trusting us with this interview, and we encourage others to share and continue their support for The Reading Bug (and other local businesses in San Carlos we all care about):

Kazu Kibuishi presenting Amulet #9 at The Reading Bug

Interview with Owner Lauren Savage of The Reading Bug

Can you tell us about the story of the Savage Family? What made you want to start a bookstore back in 2008? Any interesting stories / challenges you’d like to share, back when you were starting The Reading Bug? Anything special behind the name “The Reading Bug?”

My first daughter was born in 2008 and I wanted a place like The Reading Bug for her to grow up. My mother-in-law had always wanted a children’s bookstore and invested in the idea. Our whole family has worked in the store over the years and some support from afar. I still run everything day to day and now all 3 of my kids work on occasion. The challenges of owning a small business with 3 young children are too numerous to count but rewarding all the same.

In 2011, you expanded your store to double its size – it must have been very exciting times! Can you tell us more about it? The most memorable things during the early years? What events did you have back then?

We’ve had so many fun events over the years. We expanded when we saw the opportunity to have a full event space and allow bigger named authors and performers as well as our own popular story times. Hundreds of customers can join us at a time now and that has been made even more exciting with outdoor space we have now since COVID hit.

At one point, our event space changed over to a shipping warehouse from 2020-2022 since we had to pivot to this during the shutdown. We now ship thousands of Reading Bug Boxes a month all over the USA and have since reopened our event space. We have had famous singers and actors such as Peter Yarrow and Lisa Loeb visit as well as Henry Winkler (the Fonz!) who has visited twice! His grandchildren actually get Reading Bug Boxes in the mail every month from us.

If its ok to share, can you tell us some of the most memorable encounters you’ve had with customers at The Reading Bug? 

Our most memorable encounters are the kids and families who come from all over the USA (this past summer from Maine, Massachusetts, Oregon, Arizona and more) and world (kids from Australia and even Turkey this year!) just to meet Lauren and The Reading Bug.

Our podcast, Reading Bug Adventures talks right to the Reader through music and stories and kids have made The Reading Bug bookstore a true destination because of this. Our podcast has over 5 million downloads worldwide! We have a full wall of fan mail and art from our podcast fans.

What are your most fondest memories inside The Reading Bug when it comes to guest authors, singers, and others?

Singing Puff the Magic Dragon with Peter Yarrow was my top memory but my favorite of our own events was when we did a live version of one of our podcast episodes and tons of kids came to participate in the interactive story.

Can you tell us more about The Reading Bug Box? What’s the farthest place you’ve delivered a Reading Bug Box to, and what do the customers usually say about it?

We would love to be able to ship all over the world but shipping costs just won’t allow for it. We do ship all over the USA including some customers in Alaska and Hawaii as well as military/APO addresses with customers stationed all over the world. But customers love Reading Bug Boxes- especially those who are not close to an independent bookstore.

Independent bookstores are special because we are experts in children’s literature and we work with kids one on one every day to pick the best books for each individual child. Reading Bug Boxes do that same thing- bringing that personal touch right to their doorstep based on the age and interests they give us. We open up new worlds for many of these kids and surprise them with books they may not have ever picked up or knew existed and turned them into life long readers!

The Reading Bug Podcast is amazing! Do you see yourself doing a full video production based on a storybook someday?

Oh we would really love to. We were very close (in the final stages of a contract) to getting the podcast developed into a full tv series but when the writer’s strike hit, the deal fell through. We would love for someone else to pick us up someday!

During the pandemic, what were the most challenging things you had to deal with?

We had to lay off all of our staff and I sat inside that store for the first 3 months handing books out the door, shipping boxes and hand delivering to keep the store alive. It was the most exhausting of our entire 15 years in business. We were so lucky to be able to bring everybody back but even now we are still dealing with the aftermath. Sales and shopping have not come back so we are struggling to make rent as that rises and sales fall.

Now that the pandemic is over, what are your plans for the next three years? Anything extra special you have in mind?

We’re moving back into events full-force and we are really hoping to bring our community downtown again. I wouldn’t say we have anything extra-special because I just think we ARE extra-special. There are very few towns with a community gathering space like The Reading Bug and I hope people will start to remember that again.

Most of us who grew up with no internet or smartphones, we remember the magic of play and imagination. Do you feel that the children today who grew up with smartphones and Youtube are missing out on so much? In your experience, how do books and stories help with the growth and development of children at a young age?

Honestly, I think there is a healthy mix to be had. I hope that we can all find more balance in media. Books and stories definitely increase vocabulary and communication and even something as simple as coming into the bookstore instead of ordering books online is SO important for kids. My kids totally watch TV and play video games. But they also read a ton and work in the bookstore to work on their communication skills just speaking with other kids and grown-ups.

We understand the leasing terms of The Reading Bug were going to expire in Summer of 2024? If its ok to share, what made the contractor change their minds?

Oh they have not changed their minds. They have raised our rent and will continue to do so. They could not afford to knock the building down yet but I assure you they will either knock it down in 2027 when the lease is up or they will raise the rent so high that we won’t be able to pay it. I would really love to say that they did this out of the goodness of their hearts and for the good of the community but the reality is that they are in this for the money.

If we have to leave in 2027, I do believe that will be part of the downfall of downtown San Carlos. We were one of the first to breathe life into this downtown and I’m so proud of what we and my fellow retailers have built. I do fear for the future of downtown as rents rise and we see more empty storefronts.

From you personally, why do you love The Reading Bug? What’s the best thing about it?

I love what we have done to create community in our downtown. From classes to events and free storytimes, I have made some of the best friends over the years in the customers who have been coming since we opened back in 2008 and I think other families have also made lifelong friends (and readers!).

A message for our readers:

Come see us! Support us so we can keep supporting San Carlos and beyond. Thank you!

Follow The Reading Bug at:

For the latest news in San Carlos, please visit San Carlos Life Blog

Meet the New Devonshire Little Store

Tucked away in the heart of San Carlos is a small store that may as well surpass the longevity of any other business in San Mateo – a remarkable 88-year history, nearly as old as the town itself! The Devonshire Little Store – founded by Scottish immigrants amidst the tumult of the Great Depression, and has changed ownership only five times.

The Legacy of the Devonshire Little Store

In 2023, the reins transitioned to Mr. Abdul, a dynamic entrepreneur hailing from a family of gas station and convenience store proprietors. With vision and respect for tradition, Abdul has revitalized the Devonshire Little Store, infusing it with innovation while honoring its rich cultural heritage.

Notably, the Devonshire Store stands as the sole purveyor of Mitchell’s Ice Cream in San Carlos, a treat coveted even on chilly days in nearby San Francisco.

Engaging with Abdul has been a delight. To those yet unacquainted, we are thrilled to introduce this remarkable individual to the community of San Carlos. If it’s been some time since your last visit to the Devonshire Little Store, now is the perfect moment to rediscover its charm.

Despite its moniker, the “little store” has undergone a transformation that belies its size, and with further enhancements on the horizon, it stands poised to make a significant impact for the next century and beyond.

Please read the interview below:

Interview with Abdul Ajarmeh

We’re delighted about the new improvements with the Devonshire Store. It seems there’s not much information about it yet online, so we’d be so happy to make the first feature! But first, can you tell us more about yourself and what you love best about San Carlos? How long have you been here?

To let you know a little bit about myself first, I am originally from Jordan but I moved to the United States for school in 2010. I attended college at the University of Minnesota and I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

I then joined some of my relatives who operated gas station and convenience shops and I worked in that line of business for nine years. This is how I picked up the skills I that needed to operate my own business.

I moved to the beach area in 2019 because my wife is originally from here; she was born and raised in the Bay Area, specifically Millbrae.

How did you meet Mr. Sun, the retired owner of the Devonshire? What made you want to continue the store after he moved to Sacramento?

Right after the pandemic I saw an opportunity purchase my own business because a lot of the businesses were struggling, and there was an opportunity to purchase one of these businesses improve it and make something out of it.

So I have a family member who is friends with my in-laws who works as a Business Broker, and he was listening the business on behalf of Mr. Sun.

So I paid the store a visit. My initial reaction was that “I don’t want anything to do with it!”. It was very old and deteriorated. But when I went home and did my research I realized that this is a hidden gem!!

The history behind it drew me in! This has to be one of the oldest still-in-operation businesses in San Mateo County, if not the oldest! Hence, it must have a very loyal customer base, especially from the neighbors!

So I decided to purchase the business; and with the help of the landlord, Mr. Wang, we were able to renovate it into a modern state without compromising the old charm of the building!

After the renovations had been done, I moved from Millbrae and I now live on top of the store in a very nice and spacious house.

There is a lot of history behind the store, and in almost 100 years of operation, it all only exchanged hands about five times. It was first built and owned by a Scottish family, who, with the help of a few Scottish immigrants, transformed the bottom level of that house into a retail store during the Great Depression.

Since the opening of the store last year, what renovations have occurred in the space? Changes in the menu, items for sale?

The renovations that we did substantially improved the business, especially the addition of the ice cream shop and the sandwich deli. There is always construction and landscaping work going on in the hills of San Carlos and many of the workers come here during lunchtime for refreshments and sandwiches.

We expanded the menu and improved the ingredients significantly. We exclusively use fresh baked bread made by a very professional bakery and all of our sandwiches are made to order with love!

We also increased our beer and wine selection to include many of the brands that the neighborhood people love.

Devonshire Little Store Abdul

The Devonshire Little Store holds a lot of memories for the neighborhood in San Carlos. Have you met the previous customers of the store, and just for fun, who do you like the best? Who is your best customer? 😊

Since we opened the store, we have met many of the customers that have been supporting in this business for generations, and when I say generations, I mean it. I have met families of four generations that have been coming to this business since the 50’s.

I love all of my customers and I serve them all with love and care, especially the ones that are loyal customers who come here multiple times a week; but if I have to pick who is my favorite crowd, it has to be the kids that come here after school, and they know exactly who they are!

These kids were the very first customers to walk into my business at 8 AM sharp on October 1st 2023, the very first day we opened. And for that, they will always have a special place in my heart!

Mitchell’s Ice Cream – it’s a very popular thing in SF! Please tell us more about it and if you have special recommended flavors, items you’d like to recommend, or any upcoming promos you have for the community?

Regarding Mitchell’s ice cream, I am a big ice cream fan and when I first moved to the Bay Area, my wife took me to Mitchell‘s ice cream in San Francisco. It was very cold outside, but there was a line all the way to the corner of the block, so I said to myself, this has to be the best ice cream in town!!

When I took over the Devonshire Little Store, I told myself I have to carry Mitchell’s ice cream, so I got in touch with them, and we communicated to discuss the idea and eventually after I told him a little bit about the history of the little store they were ecstatic to supply me! It is really good quality ice cream and some of the favorite flavors that has been repeatedly requested are the Grasshopper Pie, the Oreo Cookie, and the Mango Ice Cream!

We always carry the Seasonal Specialties as well – currently, we are carrying Peppermint Candy Ice Cream as well as Spumoni Ice Cream! If you are an Italian American, do you know exactly what Spumoni is!

What are your plans for the future of Devonshire Little Store?

Our  future plan for the little store is the expand our inventory, offer smoked tri-tip sandwiches during the summertime, and enhance our ice cream profile!

Any message you have for the community, our readers?

We love the community of San Carlos, we invite them all to come here and try out our ice cream, we also have a special for the kids will go to sports practice, if you come here in your uniform after practice, we will give you a double scoop for the price of one!

I would like to take this venue to thank each and every customer that ever came to the store, please continue the tradition. I would like to thank you for your continued support, we very much appreciate you!

Follow them at Instagram.

For more blogs, visit Brittan Heights Blog

Cask vs. Stamp: San Carlos’ Best $20 3-Course Showdown

It’s date-month! Ever wondered where and when to get the best gourmet meal for two on a budget? Enter two local gems, Stamp Bar & Grill and The Cask Wine Bar, engaging in a friendly “20-dollar meal battle” right on Laurel Street, almost facing each other. Stamp and Cask, our dynamic duo, are vying for the title of the best gourmet meal on a budget in San Carlos.

The Ultimate $20 3-Course Meal in San Carlos: You be the Judge!

Both Stamp and Cask present their $20 meals for the month, available Monday to Friday during lunchtime. Stamp’s menu changes monthly, while Cask’s offerings may vary based on availability.

Let the Culinary Showdown Commence!

Round 1: Soup of the Day or Salad Smackdown
Stamp Bar & Grill kicks off with a Soup and Salad Combo, featuring a daily soup surprise and a classic Caesar Salad. The organic romaine lettuce, tortilla strips, crispy bacon, and shaved parmesan create a symphony of flavors. Meanwhile, The Cask Wine Bar offers a choice between their changing “Soup of the Day” and a vibrant Mixed Green Salad, adorned with dried cranberries, candied walnuts, carrots, and a house-made red wine vinaigrette. The battle between Stamp’s hearty combo and Cask’s Soup vs. Salad Choice is on!

Round 2: The Main Course Madness
Stamp Bar & Grill flaunts five delectable options, including Mary’s Farm Organic Chicken Parmesan, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Rigatoni Bolognese, Fresh Tilapia Piccata, and Penne Pasta with Prawns. On the other side, The Cask Wine Bar presents a lineup featuring Pan-Seared Salmon, Cheese Ravioli, Chicken Piccata, Cask’s Sliders, and Linguini Pomodoro. These dishes, when ordered separately, could cost up to $33 each – a steal at $20 for the complete meal! Stamp offers a $8 glass of wine, while Cask provides a $5 glass of Chardonnay or Cabernet.

Round 3: The Sweet Finale
Stamp Bar & Grill delivers a knockout punch with a choice between Vanilla or Chocolate Ice Cream. Meanwhile, Cask keeps it cool with a single scoop of Chocolate, Vanilla, Salted Caramel, or Mango Sorbet. The sweet decision-making moment arrives!

The Verdict
Both Stamp Bar & Grill and The Cask Wine Bar bring their A-game to the table. Stamp offers a symphony of flavors with a Soup of the Day, Caesar Salad, an array of main course marvels, and a sweet finale of two ice cream choices. On the flip side, Cask provides a suspenseful start with a choice between salad or soup, a diverse main course lineup, and a sweet one-scoop ending with four ice cream choices. Generous servings, coupled with excellent customer service, make this a tough decision.

Join the Battle!
Have you tried these culinary delights? Share your food adventures on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #20dollarmealbattle or tag us at @sancarloslife. We want to hear your insights!

This 20-dollar feast face-off is a wallet-friendly journey through San Carlos’s culinary scene, proving that the town knows how to serve up a good time. So, gather your appetite, grab a fork (or a spoon), and let the foodie festivities begin. Stamp Bar & Grill and The Cask Wine Bar are prepared to tantalize your taste buds, one delectable dish at a time! 🍽️🥂

San Carlos Centennial Celebrations 2025: The Committee In Charge

Last January 17, 2024, marked the inception of the San Carlos Centennial Advisory Committee’s journey towards organizing the grand events and celebrations for the City of San Carlos’s 100th anniversary in 2025. The mood was set with the mantra, “San Carlos – let’s have fun 🙂,” reflecting the enthusiasm that filled the 2nd Floor of the San Carlos Library.

The Committee and Its Dynamic Members
The City Centennial Advisory Committee is a diverse assembly, comprising individuals from various San Carlos organizations. The responsibility of orchestrating the monumental 100th-anniversary celebrations for the city has been entrusted to this spirited group, demonstrating the significance of commencing the planning a year in advance.

Here’s a snapshot of the Committee members and the organizations they represent:

  • Adult Community Center Member/Friend: Louise Della Maggiora; Patti Brown (AM)
  • Business Owner/Operator: Allison Rak; Lesley Hoelper (AM)
  • Chamber San Mateo County: Paula Ebejer-Moffitt; Brian Perkins (AM)
  • Community Foundation of San Carlos: Will Strohl; Jessica Yang (AM)
  • Community Member/Resident: Cris Adair; Twisha Anand; Cori Carpenter; Joe Fimiani; Linda Garvey; Marci Lyzun (AM); Susan Rose (AM)
  • Economic Development Advisory Commission: Sailesh Mehra; Rajesh Krishnan (AM)
  • Kiwanis Club of San Carlos: Jay Stauss; Lucy Solberg (AM)
  • Mayor of San Carlos: John Dugan
  • Parks, Recreation & Culture Commission: Mark Maxwell; John Durkin (AM)
  • Parks and Recreation Foundation: Richard Armanino; Debbie Denton (AM)
  • Planning and Transportation Commission: Janet Castaneda; David Roof (AM)
  • Rotary Club of San Carlos: Ramesh Kamath; Neil Lundy (AM)
  • San Carlos Education Foundation: Scott Cleaveland; Jessie Myers (AM)
  • San Carlos History Museum Board: Gordy Burton; Ellen Bateman (AM)
  • San Carlos Lions Club: Jean Dehner; Connie Barba (AM)
  • San Carlos School District: Jennifer Gaboury
  • Vice Mayor of San Carlos: Sara McDowell
  • Youth Advisory Council: Sufiya Kaul; Maya Kacholiya (AM)

The Energetic Meeting Kick-Off
The meeting commenced with warm greetings and introductions, creating an atmosphere where longtime residents shared stories of their two to three decades in San Carlos. To ensure everyone was aligned, a brief orientation was provided by the City Clerk.

Paula Ebejer-Moffitt, owner of Prima Printing and representative of Chamber San Mateo County, was elected as the Committee’s Chair. Sufiya Kaul, representing the Youth Advisory Council, assumed the role of Vice Chair. With this leadership duo, the Committee dived into discussions about their goals, sparking excitement about planning what could potentially be the most significant celebration in San Carlos’s history.

Mark Your Calendars for the Next Public Meeting
The City Centennial Advisory Committee is gearing up for a year-long centennial celebration in 2025. The next public meeting is scheduled for February 21, 2024, at 6:00 PM, and will also be held at the San Carlos Library Community Room on the second floor.

What are your desires for the Centennial Celebration? The meeting is open to the public, though online participation is not available. Save the date and join the planning festivities! 🙂 You can find meeting results and agendas on the City Portal for Public Meetings.

Minimum Interest Rate to Charge on Personal Loans – IRS Rules

You may be aware that there is a maximum interest rate that can be charged when lending money to someone personally. If you charge an interest rate that is too high, it is considered usury and you would be classified as a loan shark. Loan sharks face imprisonment, which is something you definitely want to avoid! Usury refers to the practice of charging an excessively high interest rate that is considered unreasonable. Each state has its own laws and criteria for determining what is considered unreasonable. Currently, in California, the general usury limit is 10% per year, with certain exceptions.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Minimum Interest Rates?

However, it’s important to note that there is a legal requirement for a minimum interest rate when lending money to someone. Occasionally, I receive calls from parents who want to assist their children in purchasing a home. The conversation typically goes like this: “Hey Mark, we are aware that you and Viv are the top realtors in San Carlos, and possibly even the world, and we need your assistance. Junior needs a home in San Carlos, and we want to support him. However, the current interest rates are quite high. Therefore, we were thinking of purchasing the house with cash and having Junior repay us on a monthly basis at a lower interest rate.”

At times, I find myself having to explain the concept of the Applicable Federal Rate (AFR) to my parents. AFR refers to the minimum interest rate set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for private loans. The IRS releases a set of minimum interest rates every month, known as Rate Tables, which are considered the minimum market rate for loans. It is important to select the appropriate AFR based on whether the loan is short-term or long-term.

If the interest rate on a loan is lower than the Applicable Federal Rate (AFR), it could have tax consequences. Such rates are typically lower than the rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage. When lending money to a family member or friend, it is important to charge at least the AFR or slightly more, but not too high as to be considered a predatory lender.

If you break the AFR rules regarding minimum interest rates, there can be several consequences. Firstly, the income earned will be subject to imputed interest, which means that taxes will be paid based on the AFR rather than the actual amount charged. Secondly, if the loan amount exceeds the annual gift tax exclusion, it may result in a taxable event, leading to income taxes being owed. The IRS may also impose penalties depending on the situation.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

The Work Around

If you desire to charge interest rates higher than what is permissible for a personal loan without facing legal charges, you can establish an LLC and have it issue the loan instead. This way, the loan will not be considered a personal loan and will not be subject to usury laws. This approach may also be applicable when the minimum interest rate you intend to charge is lower than the AFR. However, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer or accountant to ensure the legality of this workaround as laws are subject to change.

To find some of the best realtors in San Carlos CA visit https://www.vabrato.com/about-us/

Discover the Cozy Charm and Lively Vibes of The Livin Room in San Carlos, CA

When you step into The Livin Room in San Carlos, California, you’re not just entering a restaurant – you’re entering a realm of cozy charm, delectable dining, and vibrant entertainment. This local gem has captured the hearts of San Carlos residents and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of warmth, hospitality, and live music that’s hard to find anywhere else.

On February 3, 2023, a new upscale bar and lounge called Livin Room is set to open in San Carlos, CA. It is intended for small groups to gather and socialize. The owner, Ted Cutting, assures that the venue will have exceptional staff who are committed to providing great service and a one-of-a-kind experience for customers. The bar is located at 677 Laurel St in the downtown area of San Carlos.

The Livin Room is a spacious area furnished with couches, side chairs, coffee tables, TVs and fireplaces, all in an open concept layout. The aim is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for socializing with friends, while also allowing for natural interactions with nearby groups.

They offer a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including wines, beers and mixed drinks, as well as a variety of food options such as kabobs, wings, salads, pizza and other entrees.

Unlike typical bars or lounges, the Livin Room requires reservations in two-hour increments for groups of up to six people at a cost of $200. However, this fee is not a charge but rather a credit towards food and drink purchases during the reserved time. Additional two-hour blocks can be reserved for another $200, but taxes and a 20% gratuity are not included.

The owner believes that the $200 reservation fee ensures that the Livin Room is properly staffed to provide exceptional service to their patrons.

Visit and Experience the Magic

The Livin Room in San Carlos, CA, is a testament to the fact that dining out is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With its comfortable and inviting decor, a menu that caters to all tastes, and music that fills the air with melodies, this place is a true local treasure.

So, whether you’re a San Carlos resident looking for your new favorite hangout or a visitor in search of a unique dining experience, make sure to include The Livin Room on your list of must-visit places. Once you’ve experienced the charm and liveliness of this establishment, you’ll understand why it’s beloved by so many.

San Carlos has many dining options, but The Livin Room stands out for its distinctive blend of comfort, cuisine, and camaraderie. The next time you’re in the area, consider stepping into this cozy haven and letting the good times roll

More Info

To find some of the best real estate agents in San Carlos CA visit https://www.vabrato.com/about-us/

To read more news about Brittan Heights and San Carlos, visit https://brittanheights.com/blog/

Every Elementary School in San Carlos CA made the CDEs list of California Distinguished Schools!

San Carlos, CA is known as both “The City of Good Living” and for its excellent public education system.

On January 6, 2023, the California Department of Education (CDE) released its list of distinguished elementary schools, and every elementary school in San Carlos, CA was included. This recognition reflects the high academic standards and achievements of these schools.

California Distinguished Schools San Carlos CA

Out of the 5,872 elementary schools in California, only 356 (approximately 6%) were selected for this honor. The inclusion of all San Carlos elementary schools on the list speaks to the town’s commitment to providing quality education.

As a local realtor, I can attest that the reputation of San Carlos’ public schools often attracts homebuyers to the area, resulting in higher home prices compared to nearby communities.

The distinguished elementary schools in San Carlos, CA are Arundel Elementary, White Oaks Elementary, Mariposa Elementary, Arroyo Elementary, Heather Elementary, San Carlos Charter Learning Center, and Brittan Acres Elementary.

More Info

To find some of the best real estate agents in San Carlos CA visit https://www.vabrato.com/about-us/

To read more news about Brittan Heights and San Carlos, visit https://brittanheights.com/blog/

How to Sell Condos

Your gain is equal to the difference between your amount realized the selling price less any commissions and closing fees.

Selling a condo yourself follows a different process than doing a “for sale by owner” (FSBO) transaction on a house. Yard signs and the multiple listing service (MLS) are two tools that attract buyers to houses on the market. With a condo that’s for sale, the owner may want to keep such news private so as to not scare away current tenants. In order to sell your condo, you’ll have to create the marketing material, find potential buyers, and sell them on the positives of your property directly.

1

Locate potential buyers by identifying owners of similar condos in a reasonable radius around your building. For a smaller building of 10 or fewer units, look in a 1- or 2-mile radius, and for 11 to 30 unit buildings look in a 2- to 4-mile radius. Contact your city’s assessor to obtain a list of rental licenses, which will have the names and addresses of property owners. In certain cases, this type of information may be found online.

2

Spruce up your property for better curb appeal. At the very least, make cosmetic repairs to areas that experienced problems in the past. For example, paint over ceiling stains that formed as a result of a leaking roof that you have since fixed. Leaving such a stain will lead buyers to assume that you still have a leaky roof.

3

Create a marketing package and flyer for your property. The package must contain a description of the property, interior and exterior photos, a description of the area, and a description of the neighborhood’s demographics. In addition, your package must contain a full underwriting of your property, including income and expenses that reflect an accurate capitalization rate.

Read Full Article >>

Follow Us On Our Social Networks

The best Christmas decoration ideas for small spaces

It is possible to spread holiday cheer in your condominium unit without having it take over entirely by following the best Christmas decoration ideas for small spaces.

Source: dotproperty.com.ph/blog/best-christmas-decoration-ideas-small-spaces

The best Christmas decoration ideas for small spaces are designed to help you get into the holiday spirit without it consuming your condominium unit or small house entirely. It is possible to find the right balance of yuletide joy and home, but it does require some creative thinking.

Perhaps the most common mistake people make is buying Christmas decorations before planning on how they will be placed in the home. Like most interior décor in small residences, it is important to plan for the holidays in order to maximize available space.

It is possible to spread holiday cheer in your condominium unit without having it take over entirely by following the best Christmas decoration ideas for small spaces.

4 of the best Christmas decoration ideas for small spaces

1) Non-traditional Christmas tree (AKA Wall Trees)

Unfortunately, Christmas trees are not designed for living in a small space. Their round form can be hard to accommodate if you want something taller than a few inches. One smart alternative is a non-traditional Christmas tree. Also known as a wall tree, this is where you decorate a wall with lights and ornaments in the shape of a tree. This 2D version is a great way to save space while ensuring holiday décor doesn’t overrun your residence.

Read Full Article >>

Follow Us On Our Social Networks

4 Beginner Tips for Investing in a Condo

Buying a condo can save you time, money and provide socialization.

Source: www.moneyoutline.com/4-beginner-tips-for-investing-in-a-condo/

According to recent historical accounts, the first condo is said to have been built in New York City in 1881. A condo is a single unit with one owner within an apartment-style building, townhomes, or freestanding homes.

However, a condo differs from apartment buildings in many ways. In short, the main difference between a condominium and an apartment is ownership.

Investing in a condo means you would own the space and share responsibility for the common areas of the building with the other condominium owners.

With an apartment building, you can own your apartment. However, unlike a condominium, you will still be under the building owner’s rule along with the other renters.

The notion of investing in a condo is on the rise. However, there are many things to consider if you’re a first-time investor. Read on for four tips on investing in condos.

  1. Examine Your Lifestyle

Are you ready to throw your lawnmower, hedger, and pressure washer out the window? Can’t stand the idea of paying out $20,000 for a new roof on your home? If yes is the answer to either question, then investing in condos might be right for you.

On the other hand, if you love your backyard space or sharing the walls with neighbors on all sides isn’t appealing, you may not want to invest in a condo. Condo living is similar to apartment living with people being close.

  1. Find an Experienced Realtor

If you’ve decided to invest in something like these condos, begin searching for a realtor.

You’ll want to find someone who keeps your preferences in mind and doesn’t mind spending the time helping you find what you need.

In addition, your real estate agent should have experience with condominium sales for the best results.

Read Full Article >>

Follow Us On Our Social Networks

How To Make a Small Space Bigger

Whether it was too big or too small, the wrong color or shape, or just didn’t fit in with your other furniture, that moment of realizing the piece you loved won’t work is disappointing. 

Source: nataliecoxdesign.com/how-to-make-a-small-space-bigger/

A client recently reached out to me with this exact concern. There were a lot of big things she wanted in her new condo:

  • A dedicated home office with space for dual monitors
  • The ability to throw cozy and intimate dinner parties
  • Space to host out-of-town friends and family visiting overnight

It may seem like a lot to accomplish in just 600 square feet of space, but I had big plans to make this a minimalist and functional area for her to work, relax, and entertain.

Creating A Space Plan

Have you ever seen the perfect piece of furniture, art, or home decor while shopping? You probably spotted it and immediately fell in love, knowing that you just had to have it and exactly where you wanted to put it. You bought it, brought it home… 

… and it didn’t fit.

Whether it was too big or too small, the wrong colour or shape, or just didn’t fit in with your other furniture, that moment of realizing the piece you loved won’t work is disappointing. 

A space plan helps you avoid that disappointment and create a strategy for your space. This is especially important for small spaces like this condo. A space plan allowed me to see what pieces of furniture would fit, and more importantly, where they would fit. 

Taking the time to put that puzzle together meant more of those precious square feet could be used effectively.

Read Full Article >>

Follow Us On Our Social Networks

One HGTV Star Revealed a Kid-Proof Way to Decorate an Empty Wall

It’s natural that kids can sometimes be super rough on homes.

Source: apartmenttherapy.com/kid-proof-wall-mirror-hgtv-tip-36992015

Let’s face it — kids are super rough on homes. Luckily, HGTV designer Breegan Jane is putting her parenting knowledge to work as she makes and shares design choices for kid-proof homes that keeps everyone safe.

In a recent Instagram post, the interior designer — known for hosting HGTV’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and “The House My Wedding Bought” — demonstrated her “oversized framed mirror hack,” which is the ultimate safety tip for any parent hoping to worry less about large objects falling on their child. Instead of mounting a super heavy mirror with a frame to the wall, she attached a sheet mirror to the wall, then added the frame around it.

Read Full Article >>

Follow Us On Our Social Networks

The Hiller Aviation Museum Presents Haunted Hangar

Hoping for a family Bonding? The Hiller Aviation got your back!

Source: www.hiller.org/event/halloween-haunted-hangar-2/

Haunted Hangar

October 23 – October 31, Daily 10 AM – 5 PM

  • Haunted Hangar Display is included with museum admission.
  • Museum Members are Free. Just show your membership card at the door.
Special weekend activities:
Saturday, Oct. 30,  5:00 – 6:30 pm

Halloween Kid’s Carnival – Helicopter Pumpkin Drop
5:00 – 6:30 pm

Sunday, Oct 31,  10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Halloween Kid’s Carnival – Helicopter Pumpkin Drop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Visit the Hiller Aviation Museum this October for a frightful treat!

Come in costume and see the Gallery decked out in its spooky Halloween decorations and the “Great Pumpkin” Scavenger Hunt.

Join the excitement with special activities just for kids on the weekends during our Kids’ Carnival.  Aircraft checkouts, cockpit exploration, glider, and helicopter construction, and more are just some of the activities that will be available.

Read Full Article >>
Order Tickets>>

Follow Us On Our Social Networks