Lee Ginsburg

2010 Remodeling Cost as Compared to Resale Value
February 15, 2011 · · 2 Comments

Remodeling Magazine annually researches the cost of remodeling with the help of Home Tech Information Systems. They also research the value remodeling adds with the help of the National Association of Realtors. They put this information together by regions. For a complete report please go to http://www.remodeling.hw.net/2010/costvsvalue/national.aspx

Below are the results for the San Francisco region.
A small difference in the size or scope of a project, or in the quality of finishes and accessories you choose, can dramatically affect the cost.

The “value” of a project at resale is always subject to forces that are difficult to predict. Changing how a space is used may meet the immediate needs of the current homeowner, but may be at odds with what prospective buyers are looking for. How the value of a remodeling project is perceived also depends on a variety of factors that traditionally affect home values, including the condition of the rest of the house, the value of similar homes nearby, and the rate at which property values in the surrounding area are fluctuating. Comparable values are particularly difficult to judge in the current economic climate, in which the effect on the value of surrounding homes of foreclosed properties and short sales are part of the equation. The mere presence of a large number of unsold homes, whether new or existing, well-maintained or distressed, can have a constricting effect on surrounding home values.      Read more

Jean Joh

Say NO to Extension of the Federal Tax Credit for First Time Home Buyers!!! (???)
October 16, 2009 · · 8 Comments

tax deadlineThe deadline for the federal tax credit of up to $8000 for first-time home buyers is fast approaching.  In order to take advantage of this credit, escrow must be closed by November 30, 2009.  If one were to count backwards from this, allowing for a 45 day close of escrow (not uncommon these days), this means that buyers will need to be in contract, at the very latest, by mid-October which means NOW. Read more

Lee Ginsburg

Is the Bottom In Sight?
September 18, 2008 · · Comment here

The window is open but could be closing soon.  The window I am speaking about is “The Window of Opportunity”.  In the Bay Area we might be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  The bottom might be in sight.  Why am I saying this?  It is economics 101; Supply and Demand.  On the Supply side in the Bay Area we are seeing the Supply stabilize or even decrease in certain areas. Read more