DID YOU KNOW? 3.79 million babies were born in the U.S. in 2018, down 2% from 2017, a 32-year low. The total US fertility rate has generally remained below the “replacement” level of 2.1 since 1971. Without enough immigrants, the U.S. could see population declines and a workforce too small to support a growing segment of retirees. (WSJ)
Our wonderful state of California has been at the forefront of limiting single-use plastics with statewide bans on plastic bags, straws and bottles. And while this is amazing, I can’t help but notice how many single-use plastic bags are still lining garbage bins all around the city. It’s so simple to come up with a solution to eliminate these. Here are some suggestions from The San Francisco Department of the Environment on what to use instead. These small changes can make a BIG impact on our environment.
Recycling Bin: no liner needed
Composting Bin: find a compostable liner that works for you
Landfill Bin: think small
The position of a home is a key factor when deciding what to buy. It’s also key when selling – doing so can help you highlight attributes that may be important in a buyer’s eyes, yet often ignored or not broadcast loudly enough.
For instance, all apartments in a large condo building share the exact same location, but position of each apartment is different. Low floor corners may get interesting street views and even some greenery. Upper floors may not have the same benefit, but they may enjoy better light. Proximity to amenities like the gym, pool or elevator can also make a difference.
The lifestyle a home offers is also a consideration. What are the amenities? What is within walking distance? How long will it take to drive to get to the things you need? I like to picture an imaginary day in a home hour-by-hour. It helps me speak about the property more effectively and develop better “word pictures” for any ads I’m writing.
The immediate neighborhood is also important. I pay attention to how “settled” the block is and ask the Seller about their neighbors. I also like to see how many homes have been improved with new paint or landscaping. Recently completed work indicates that the block has potential upside.
I always take note of which direction a property faces. Often our best views are North facing, which can make the rooms facing them colder, while a south-facing yard is ideal for plants and sun. A western view can offer wonderful sunsets, but can also be hard on furniture and art.
Just like a fine painting, all real estate requires close observation to FULLY understand its positives and negatives. No property is perfect: matching the needs of a buyer to a seller is the key.
With San Francisco real estate the highest in the nation, it’s easy to feel you’ve been priced out of the market. Are you starting to wonder how you’ll ever afford a home? Maybe it’s time to get creative. According to Forbes, 36% of first-time homebuyers would have a roommate if it meant being able to afford a home sooner. Do you have a friend with dreams to buy a home as well? Perhaps you can invest in a home together. Yes, I know. Having a roommate doesn’t sound ideal, but finally owning a home does. And a good investment means you can hopefully sell in a few years, and then afford to buy your OWN home. The article here has a great list of pros and cons for this type of investment.
April 27 – May 27
The esteemed San Francisco Decorator Showcase benefitting the San Francisco University High School financial aid program is underway and the photos I’ve seen so far are nothing short of gorgeous. This year’s 18,000-square-foot Presidio Heights home (3800 Washington) has been transformed into a magical space with rooms designed by top Bay Area designers. Tickets are $35-40 and can be purchased here.
“Houghton Hall Reimagined” by Jonathan Rachman Design
Balcony Garden: the Skylight Conservatory” by Brandon Pruett Design
“Daydream Believin’” by Studio Heimat
“Master Bathroom/Spa” by Alexis Humiston of ABH Interiors
One of the many reasons I love this city is that there is ALWAYS something fun to do. Here are just a few things to check out this weekend.
MUTEK San Francisco 2019 (2nd Edition)
May 02, 5:00 PM — May 06, 12:00 AM
This 4-Day electronic festival returns for it’s second year. The event is “committed to the advancement and presentation of groundbreaking works in the audio, art, and digital tech space, get ready for another year of innovative installations, informative conversations, and genre-bending fun.”
May 04, 6:00 AM — May 05, 5:00 PM
Free outdoor yoga in San Francisco? Yes, please! For 10 years, Wanderlust Festival has gathered teachers, experts, musicians, and creators at stunning destination resorts for transformational experiences—each unique unto itself. For the first time, we’re bringing our destination festival experience to select US cities.
May 04, 11:00 AM — May 05, 3:00 PM
Golden Gate Yacht Club
This is the first SailGP event ever to be held in the U.S. Witness thrilling racing as six national teams battle it out in identical, supercharged 50-foot foiling catamarans capable of breaking the 50-knot speed barrier.
