Marin Real Estate Blog

The Book Place - The Little Book Store that Can in Marin County

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:16:25 -0500

This was first posted at www.Novato.Patch.com. See my Blog at Novato.Patch.com

Just when you think you know everything about Novato, that’s when you find out you missed something important. The Book Place is a perfect example of such a gem in Novato!

For people who think there is no book store in Novato, the Book Place is a hidden treasure yet to be discovered by many even though it has been in Novato for the past 16 years, with the last 9 on Grant Avenue near Seventh Street.

With books in every category — fiction, nonfiction, history, science, autobiography, military, cookbooks, children's books, collector's items, as well as CDs, videos, and audiobooks, this used book store is a popular destination for book lovers and bargain hunters in the know throughout Marin County.

On a bright Monday morning right after the busy Thanksgiving weekend, the Book Place was quiet with a few customers browsing and six volunteers working. The sun streaming through the front picture windows warmed up a few cozy reading chairs. The quiet atmosphere and friendly volunteer staff is conducive to extensive browsing and reading before bringing a few books home. For patrons with young kids, there is a kids’ corner with children’s books, kid-sized tables, chairs, big chalkboard and toys to keep the young ones interested and occupied.

To help with holiday shopping, the Book Place has assembled many beautifully wrapped gift baskets, filled with books and items like stuffed animals for easy gifting. With well thought out, popular themes such as Dr. Seuss, the Velveteen Rabbit, Thomas the Tank Engine, Cooking, Gardening, and reasonably priced between $9-20, these gift items can be a life saver when shopping for loved ones. Not finding what you want? The Book Place continues to receive beautiful art, cooking and bestsellers in mint condition. Check back often to stretch your budget.

Staffed by more than 100 Friends of the Marin County Free Library volunteers , the Book Place receives between 2,500 and 3,000 books a week donated during the peak season, and takes in more than $10,000 monthly.

The Friends allocate between $55,000 and $70,000 annually to support Marin County Free Library materials and programs, such as the Children’s Summer Reading Program, the Toddler Story Times, the children’s programs/events, and teen reading programs. In addition, the Board reviews a Wish List compiled by library administration every year for additional funding opportunities, such as travel DVDs, Spanish-language materials, and other popular materials.

The Friends of the Marin County Free Library (MCFL) have nearly 45 years of service to the community, contributing well over $1 million to Marin County Free Library System. The friends invite you to come and explore the Book Place. Support the Marin County Free Library by donating to the Book Place or by purchasing some of the bargain but high quality books or by becoming a volunteer at the Book Place.

Pricing:

Prices on books are set by type: hardcovers $3 (except hardcover mystery which are $1), trade-size paper (larger than “pocketbooks”) $2, small mass-market size 75 cents—newer books and rare/unusual are priced accordingly. A Clearance Room has books at 25 cents. The pricing is the lowest in the county.

Kids’ Club:

Kids’ club participants accumulate stamps for each purchase on a club card with the 13^th book free. Kid’s books range from 25 cents to $1 in most cases, with special or new books priced slightly higher.

Discounts and Sales:

Teachers receive a 20 percent discount on their purchases for their classrooms.
Every Sunday seniors receive 20 percent off their purchase, except those items already on sale.
The first Sunday of every month is Bargain Sunday, and selected categories are marked down for the day. The categories are typically announced one week prior to Bargain Sunday.
Storewide clearance sales are held 3-4 times per year to make room for the massive amount of book donations received.

Membership:

Membership information is at all county library locations, and at the store. Members receive the newsletter and advance notice to any of the sales.

Donation Guideline: http://marinlibraryfriends.marin.org/DonationGuidelines.htm

Location: 1608 Grant Avenue, Novato

Store hours: Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Sat 10-4; Friday 10-7, Sunday, noon-4. There is parking in back

Phone:: 415-209-0212.

Interview: interview with Barbara Madrid by Victoria Gonzalez, Library Community Builder

Links:

Marin County Free Library: http://www.marinlibrary.org/
Friends of Library: http://marinlibraryfriends.marin.org/
Facebook Friends of Marin County Free Library
Friends of Library, Winter 2011 newsletter

Refinance while Underwater? HARP Expanded to Reach More Borrowers

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:00:36 -0400

A ray of hope has just been offered to some homeowners with properties that are seriously upside down, according to the California Association of Realtors.

In order to help a broader range of distressed homeowners and offer relief to the housing market, the Federal Housing Finance Agency announced on Oct. 24 that the mortgage relief program HARP — the Home Affordable Refinance Program — has just been expanded.

Per FHFA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have helped approximately 9 million families refinance into a lower cost or more sustainable mortgage product, approximately 10 percent of those via HARP. HARP is unique in that it is the only refinance program that enables borrowers who owe more than their home is worth to take advantage of lower interest rates and other refinancing benefits.

One of the biggest hurdles for borrowers who are current on their home loans and are considering refinance is the fact that the equity on their house is too low to qualify for a refinance. Until now, Fannie Me and Freddie Mac would only allow fixed-rate mortgages if the borrower's property stays under 125 percent loan-to-value. This requirement prevented many upside-down borrowers from refinancing to take advantage of the current low interest rates that they desperately need. The enhanced HARP guideline lifted that restriction.

Other HARP program enhancements effectively reduced certain fees associated with the refinance as well as eliminated the need for a new property appraisal if the FHFA has a reliable automated valuation model estimate. Both allowed cash strapped borrowers the ability to refinance without the steep fees a refinance might require. The HARP program, schedule to expire at the end of 2011 has now been extended until the end of 2013. New federal guidelines for the HARP changes should be released to mortgage lenders and servicers by Nov. 15.

According to the California Association of Realtors, the basic eligibility requirements for an enhanced HARP loan are as follows:

Existing mortgage loan must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Borrowers can check whether they have a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan by going to http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/get-assistance/loan-look-up/Pages/default.aspx.
Existing mortgage loan must have been sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac before June 1, 2009.
Existing mortgage loan cannot have been refinanced under HARP previously (except for Fannie Mae loans refinanced between March and May 2009).
Current loan-to-value (LTV) ratio must be more than 80%.
Existing mortgage loan must be current, with no late payments in the past six months, and no more than one late payment in the past 12 months.

Words of Caution: Remember my previous blog about SCAMs - Too Good To be True, Then Beware? There are a lot of scammers out there to take advantage of distressed homeowners at their most vulunable stage. Before engaging services that promise to modify your loans or save your home from being foreclosed on, make sure you check out the FTC Mortgage Assistance Relief Services Rule that outlaws advanced fees and false claims and requires clear disclosures from the servicers.

More Information About HARP:

More information about HARP is available from FHFA.

Other Resources for Distressed Homeowners:

www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov or call 1-888-995-HOPE (4673)
www.KnowYourOptions.com
www.FannieMae.com/homeowners
www.FreddieMac.com/avoidforeclosure

* This was first published at www.Novato.Patch.com

Carbon Monoxide Act will Save Lives

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:08:03 -0400

According to the American Medical Association, carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that carbon monoxide – the “silent killer” – kills approximately 500 people each year and injures another 20,000 people nationwide.

Carbon monoxide is emitted in small amounts from heaters, fireplaces, furnaces and other appliances, but, if working improperly, those appliances can slowly and subtly produce toxic amounts.

Depending on the exposure, carbon monoxide poisoning can have either short term or long term effect and can include mild acute poisoning such as lightheadedness, confusion, headaches, vertigo, and flu-like effects; larger exposures can lead to significant toxicity of the central nervous system and heart, and even death.

Being colorless, odorless, tasteless and initially non-irritating, it is very difficult for people to detect. To prevent such tragic consequences, California signed into law The Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act of 2010 (SB 183) in May 2010.

Beginning July 1, this law will go into effect, requiring homeowners to install carbon monoxide detector in every "dwelling unit intended for human occupancy."

The applicable time periods are as follows:

All existing single family homes with fossil fuel burning heater or appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage must install the CO detectors by July 1.
Owners of multi-family leased or rental dwellings, such as apartment buildings, must install the co detectors by January 1, 2013.

The following language comes packaged with carbon monoxide (CO) detectors:

“For minimum security, a CO Alarm should be centrally located outside of each separate sleeping area n the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. The Alarm should be located at least 6 inches (152mm) from all exterior walls and at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) from supply or return vents.”

Noncompliance can be punishable by a maximum of $200 for each offene if the owner fails to correct the problem 30 days after receiving notice to correct.

Currently, only 10 percent off households have the device, which typically costs $20-$30, is easy to install and can be found in most home improvement and hardware stores.

Similar to, but not the same as the smoke detectors, this is a small investment that really can help save your life and the lives of your loved ones!

For Home Sellers and Buyers - The Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement has been updated to require sellers to disclose whether there are Carbon Monoxide Device(s) in the property.

For more information on carbon monoxide, how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, CO poisoning symptoms and safety guidelines, please click for Information on Carbon Monoxide on CA Fire website or visit the CAL FIRE Web site at www.fire.ca.gov

(*) Disclaimer - The article is intended to provide general information on the subject. Readers who require specific advice should consult experts in the area of interest.

Thank You for believinig In and Standing Up for Novato Students

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:59:16 -0400

This was originally posted on May 21, 2011 Novato.Patch.com

While dramas are playing out on different stages, and emotions run high in Novato causing much debate and anguish among Novatans on issues related to safety, schools and the city, a handful of volunteers quietly ran one of the most successful fundraisers for Novato schools.

With 257 registered riders from 16 public schools and 2344 donors; the Tour of Novato and FunFair fundraiser, held on one glorious April day, raised over $93,000 for Novato public schools!

It was quite an amazing sight witnessing the excitement going on around the registration table. Riders signing in, taking off for a fun and healthy hour or two to fundraise for their schools. Bicycles, unicycle (one), double bicycles, bicycles with backseat and trailers; serious bikers with full biking gears and recreational riders with T-shirts and sneakers; young and old riders; and generations of riders streaming through the gorgeous West Marin landscape on a couldn't be more perfect spring day!

Some schools heavily promoted the event, seeing this as a fun and effective way to raise fund while others dismissed it. Either way, it was exciting watching running totals going up; especially during the last week of the fundraising period. Being the third year for Tour of Novato, we are seeing more teachers, students and staff riding, making it a fun day to be involved with the schools and the community that support them.

Chart Leader Eileen Smith, Principal of Loma Verde Elementary, rode the Long Route (36.5 miles) in her 3^rd year riding, raised $3,837, exceeding her goal of $3,000. The funds raised will be used for iPads because the applications will allow our students to enhance reading fluency, reading comprehension, math skills and problem solving in the classrooms. With its principal leading the fundraising efforts, Loma Verde came in first and raised over $15,000.

Heather Ophir, a San Ramon parent, Zumba Fitness Instructor, also rode the long route, came in second, raised $3,020 for her school with a very simple belief - Every Penny Counts! She reached beyond her immediate network to raise $5 or $10 at a time, her impressive list of supporters helped her far exceeded her goal of $2,000.

You don't need to be an adult to effectively fundraise. Calvin Hersey, a 12-year-old Hill Middle School student, instead of grieving the school closure; decided to raise fund for both Hill and his new school, Sinaloa. According to his page, Calvin loves bike riding ("Bike riding is how I roll"). He also rode the long route. Love his quote: "We are what we repeatedly do, excellence, therefore is not an act but a habit." I know Calvin is going to be successful in anything he sets his mind to.

Other than this very healthy way to fundraise, booths were set up to entertain and educate the students at the FunFair; such as GeoCache Treasure Hung, San Marin Music Instrument Petting Zoo, Novato Sanitary District and Novato Disposal jointly presented their zero waste program, San Marin Robotics showcasing their robots, Marin School of Arts exhibits and face painting, Sunrise Rotary Club Mini Carnival, Mike's Bikes doing bike tune up, NUSD nutrition services showcase school menu, Novato Theater educating Novatans about the plan for downtown theater. To ensure the safety of the riders and participants, Novato Police and Novato Fire were both on hand for safety helmet checks and emergency services.

Let's not forget the tireless organizers and volunteers who seem to support every Novato School event. Not ones to complain, they do this willingly and steadfastly, with no hidden agenda, other than the love they have for the children of Novato and the belief that with the support of the community, we can give our children the best we can offer. They believe in Working Together to Build a Strong Community!

For the ones with doubt, I wish you were there to witness the GOOD, the LOVE, the BELIEF and the EXCITEMENT that's in the AIR about Novato and Novato's future!

To see pictures of the Tour and FunFair, please click here and here.

To submit your photos of the event, email pictures to School Fuel

We continue to take donations and I hope you can find in your heart to donate $5, $10 at a time to our kids - Until May 25^th - Go to www.TourofNovato.org

Nature Lover's Dream Home on over 1/3 Acre. Unique Bahia Home backs to Open Space.

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 02:07:03 -0400

2711 Tiki Road, Novato, CA 94945
Property website www.2711Tiki.com
"> < />www.SylviaBarryRE.comwww.SylviaBarryRE.com
See additional photos below Offered at: $495,000

Property Status: Active
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 2.5
Lot Size: 0.321 acres
Interior Size: 2322 sq. ft. SqFt

Nature Lover's Dream Home on over 1/3 Acre Lot

* The above information is deemed reliable but not verified. Buyers to do own investigation. *

For more information, contact Sylvia Barry at visit http://www.sylviabarryre.com/ or http://www.2711tiki.com/.

Sylvia Barry

Phone:
Work:
Cell:
mailto:sylvia@SylviaBarryRE.com
License #: 01415544

http://www.sylviabarryre.com/
.
Marin County, CA 94947

Frank Howard Allen
Marin, Sonoma
, CA

View http://www.2711tiki.com/:
Add Sylvia Barry to your contacts:

Private Paradise in Partridge Knolls, Luxury Home, Panoramic View, on 3.8 Acre,

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 01:43:08 -0400

400 WOOD HOLLOW DR, NOVATO, CA 94945

Click for www.400WoodHollow.com
Click for www.SylviaBarryRE.com
See additional photos below Offered at: $1,575,000

Property Status: Active
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3F+1P
Lot Size: 164657 sq. ft.
Interior Size: 3807 sq. ft. SqFt

Open House: 1-4PM, Sunday, 04/17

Private Paradise with Panoramic View on 3.7+ acres

Conveniently located in desirable Partridge Knolls II, this extraordinary 3800+sf, 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths custom home, sited on over 3.7 acres and backs up to Mt. Burdell, is in a class of its own.

Beautiful foyer welcomes you into the stately formal living room with picturesque windows framing the gorgeous surround views and oversize French doors which open to a large deck to enjoy gorgeous hill views. Formal dining room also has beautiful French door to the deck.

Gourmet chef's kitchen opens to breakfast area has granite counters with breakfast bar, high end stainless steel wolf five stove top range, Frigidale Gallery refrigerator, Jenn-Air microwave, oven and dishwasher, trash compactor, on-demand hot water, under counter lights, pull-out trays, and a large pantry. Savoring the view while preparing and enjoying the meals. .

Adjacent oversize family room with limestone facing fireplace, built-in shelves, wet bar, build-in speakers and oversize French doors open to large deck and beautiful backyard.

Two large bedrooms, both with views, share a full size bath. Another half bath down the hallway for guest use.

Upstairs is a secluded master suite with raised fireplace, speaker system; limestone luxurious, state of the art, bath with soaking tub, large steam shower with detailed tile work and rainhead shower large sitting room (can be used as another bedroom), walk in closets and laundry room.

Downstairs has a full sized in law unit, accessible via separate entrance. The unit has family room, full kitchen, large bedroom with large walk-in closet (previous tenant used as an office and closet) and laundry room.

Several decks and terraced yard with a gazebo to enjoy the fabulous surrounding hill view. Three-zone temperature control. Beautiful crown moldings. Recessed lights, fire sprinklers.

Close to Trader Joe, Whole Foods, shopping, dining, easy access to 101 and 37 freeways. Award winning schools.

For more information, contact Sylvia Barry at visit http://www.sylviabarryre.com/ or http://www.400woodhollow.com/.

Sylvia Barry

Phone:
Work:
Cell:
mailto:sylvia@SylviaBarryRE.com
License #: 01415544

http://www.sylviabarryre.com/
.
Marin County, CA 94947

Frank Howard Allen
Marin, Sonoma
, CA

View http://www.400woodhollow.com/:
Add Sylvia Barry to your contacts:

15

Coveted Rolling Hills Area - Immaculate Custom Single Story Home, Beautifully Landscaped

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 10:44:34 -0400

99 SAN DOMINGO WAY, NOVATO, CA 94945
Click for www.99SanDomingo.com
Click for www.SylviaBarryRE.com
See additional photos below Offered at: $649,000

Property Status: Active
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Lot Size: 11021 sq. ft.
Interior Size: 1958 sq. ft. SqFt

Open House: OPEN, 1-4PM, Sunday, April 10, 2011

Rare Custom Single Story in Coveted Rolling Hills Area

Immaculate custom single story, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is over 1950sf and is located on over 1/4 acre corner lot in coveted Rolling Hills area. Enjoy gorgeous Mount Burdell views and serene backyard for relaxation and entertainment.

Welcoming foyer leads to a spacious formal living room with beautiful marble faced fireplace with marble floor insert & a wood mantel. Windows look out to Mount Burdell. Adjacent formal dining room is perfect for entertainment. Kitchen with a garden window open to breakfast area and cozy family room which includes a raised tile hearth fireplace with pellet stove insert. Sliders open to beautiful backyard. Oversized master with walk in closet, comfortable master bath with slider opening to side patio. Two generous sized bedrooms share a full bath; one with beautiful view of the hills, the other facing backyard.

Gleaming hardwood floors and wood crown molding. Sliders from family, master bed & master bath open to beautiful yard. Recently planted drought tolerant plants. Double paned sliders/windows, Central Air/ Heat, Ceiling fan, Recessed Lights, Newly weatherized - ceiling vent fans, under floor duct sealing/wrap, carbon dioxide alarm and other energy saving measures.

Stones throw from Rolling Hills Club, Harvest market, award winning school; close to transportation, shopping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, Mt. Burdell open space and Stafford Lake.

The above information is deemed reliable but not verified. Buyers to do own investigation.

For more information, contact Sylvia Barry at visit http://www.sylviabarryre.com/ or http://www.99sandomingo.com/.

Sylvia Barry

Phone: 415-717-0293
Work: 415-717-0293
Cell: 415-717-0293
mailto:sylvia@SylviaBarryRE.com
License #: 01415544

http://www.sylviabarryre.com/
.
Marin County, CA 94947

Frank Howard Allen
Marin, Sonoma
, CA

View http://www.99sandomingo.com/:
Add Sylvia Barry to your contacts:

Luxurious Living in Central Marin. 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths Upgraded Home with Amazing Panoramic Views!!!

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 15:07:11 -0500

Property Address:
20 NORTHVIEW CT
SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903

MLS: 21025612

List Price: $649,000 Reduced for Quick Sale
www.SylviaBarryRE.com

Click here for a map to
20 NORTHVIEW CT SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903
http://www.20NORTHVIEW.com

DESCRIPTION

Luxurious Living in Central Marin with Panoramic Hill Views!

This tastefully upgraded four bedroom, three full bath home is located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac with distant hills and night-light views abound!

Enter into the inviting living room with cathedral ceiling, stately marble faced fireplace and bay windows adjacent to the dining area and beautiful stairway.

Entertaining is a breeze in the chef's kitchen with skylight and deluxe counter seating at the granite slab counter. Top of the line stainless steel appliances include Viking six burner cook top and built-in oven (convection and traditional) and microwave (convection and traditional), Bosch dishwasher. The kitchen opens to family room with a granite wet bar.

French Doors off family room opens to a deck to enjoy the gorgeous surrounding views; watch sun setting over the hills and lagoon below and the twinkling of lights at night.

Enjoy the privacy and spaciousness of the upstairs master suite with sitting area, bay windows and walk in closet. Master bath has beautiful double glass vessel sinks, marble vanity, deep tub with marble surrounds. Separate glass enclosed shower adds privacy. Skylight brings natural light in the master bath.

Main level has guest bedroom with vaulted ceiling, view of the distant hills and a full bath. Downstairs has two guest bedrooms, both with views of hills and a full guest bath.

The 8000+ square foot* lot is landscaped and fenced in back with California native plantings, redwoods and ornamental grasses; providing plenty of room to romp. Automatic sprinkler and drip systems make gardening an ease.

Hardwood and Marble Floors, Wall to Wall Carpet, Bay Windows, Cathedral Ceilings, Ceiling Fans, Skylights, Designer Paint, Designer Lightning, Double Paned Windows and French Doors, Central Air, Newer Furnace and Hot Water Heater.

The home is conveniently located in Central Marin, with easy access to China Camp, Freeways to San Francisco, Wine Country and East Bay. Minutes from farmers' market, shopping, parks, hiking, community pool, tennis club, JCC, restaurants

Make this Dreamy Marin Lifestyle Yours Today!

* from Tax Record
Note - The Above Information is Deemed Reliable but Not Verified. Buyers are Advised to Do Own Investigation

PROPERTY INFORMATION

Beds: 4
Status: Active
Schools: HS Dist: San Rafael
Baths: 3
Year Built: 1988
Lot Type: n/a
Sq.Ft: 2067 sq. ft.
Lot Size: 8233 sq. ft.

FEATURES

Appliances Cooling Directions Convection Oven Ceiling Fan(s) 101 North Dishwasher Central Air East on N. San Pebro, 3/4 miles, Garbage Disposal Driveway North on Northview Court Microwave Paved Drive Energy Features Oven Range Paved Sidewalk Caulked/Seal Stove Family Room Description Dual Pane Windows Fireplace Description Cathedral Ceiling Low-Flow Shower 1 Fireplace Deck Attached Low-Flow Toilet Gas Burning Great Room Weather Strip. Living Room Floors Heating Wood Burning Hardwood Ceiling Fan(s) Kitchen Description Marble Central Air 220 V Wiring W/W Carpet Fireplace(s) Built-in Oven Laundry Gas Cont Clean Oven Incl 220 V Natural Gas Cooktop Stove Gas Wood Dishwasher Incl. In Closet Wood Burning Disposal Incl Living Room Description Lot Description Gas Range Incl. Cathedral Ceiling Cul-De-Sac Granite Counter Fireplace(s) Downslope Remodeled Other Bathrooms Description Level Sewer/Water Systems Marble Utilities Public Remodeled Cable TV Available Water District Shower and Tub DSL Available View Shower Over Tub Gas Water Heater City Lights Skylight(s) PG&E Hills Stall Shower View Description Panoramic Tile Hills Water View Tub-Master Bedroom Lights Woods Water Panoramic Yard Water District Valley Deck(s) Water Public Water Landscaped- Front General Features Sprink-Automatic Alarm System Back Yard Cable Available Cathedral Ceiling Ceiling Fan Construction: Wood Frame Cul-de-sac Deck Dining Room Description: LR/DR Combo Directions Exterior Finish: Wood Exterior: Wood Siding Fenced Fenced Yard Fencing: Wood Board Fireplace Garage Door Opener Has Fireplace: Yes Has Garage: Yes HOA Fee: $0.00 Landscaped Lawn Map Code: 566G3 Pets Allowed Roof: Composition Rooms: Storage Safety / Security: Smoke Alarm(s) Septic or Sewer: Sewer Public Skylights Style: Contemporary Trees / Shrubs Wet Bar Window Covers

CONTACT INFORMATION

Sylvia Barry
.
Marin County, CA 94947
License #: 01415544
Phone: 415-899-9237
Cell: 415-717-0293
http://www.baynet.com/mailto.aspsylvia@SylviaBarryRE.com
http://www.sylviabarryre.com/

Frank Howard Allen
Marin, Sonoma
CA

Ultra Charming Marinwood Home in Parklike Setting

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 01:08:01 -0400

Just Listed

Charming, Updated Marinwood Home in Parklike Setting!

599,000

Status: Active
Beds: 4
Baths: 2
Sq.Ft: 1398 sq. ft.
Lot Size: 7710 sq. ft.
Schools:
HS Dist: Dixie School District
Grade School: Mary Silveira - Check with District
Middle School: Mill Creek Middle - Check with District
High School: Terra Linda High - Check with District
Map it
http://www.385Johnstone.com

385 JOHNSTONE DR, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903

Ultra charming 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, close to 1400sf Marinwood home has an inviting front porch; is sited on 0.18 level acre, beautifully landscaped lot with pond, flowing fountain, gorgeous maple trees, fruit trees, flowers and vegetable garden.

Formal living room with limestone facing fireplace. Remodeled kitchen has granite counters, high-end stainless steel appliances, beautiful cabinetry, wet bar, pantry; opens to dining with sliders to backyard. An office/bedroom and another bedroom and full bath downstairs, both with sliders to the backyard. Upstairs finds master bedroom with full bath and a smaller bedroom which can be used as office or sitting area.

Gorgeous Hardwood floor throughout, Anderson Sliders/windows, Blinds, Recessed lights, Skylight, Blinds, Ceiling Fans, Window Airconditioner.

Close to shopping, hiking, freeways. Award winning Dixie schools.

The above information is deemed reliable but not verified. Buyers are advised to conduct all necessary inspections.

Sylvia Barry

Phone: 415-899-9237
Cell: 415-717-0293
mailto:sylvia@SylviaBarryRE.com
License #: 01415544
http://www.sylviabarryre.com/
.
Marin County, CA 94947

Frank Howard Allen
Marin, Sonoma
CA

Christmas House, a great tradition for locals and vistors alike in Marin County

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 19:58:02 -0500

Tis the season to be jolly, and what more fun than go out and search for amazing Christmas lights in the neighborhood to celebrate the season; an event enjoyed by people with all faiths; kids and adults alike!

Moving to Novato, Marin, CA 11 years ago; with kids then in elementary schools; we were immediately introduced to the 'Christmas House' in the Pleasant Valley neighborhood.

Eveybody asked:"Have you seen the Christmast House?", "You can't miss that". "Can you believe that they do this every year?" If one does not go, one has not lived here in Novato!

We went, and the Christmas House does not disappoint. Decorated to the 9s, inside and out; in the yard, on the rooftop; and how about the Jones? The neighbors are semi-up to the challenge, and good-heartedly participate ---- can't be left too far behind.

Devonshire, a nice, quiet neighborhood in Pleasant Valley schools area, becomes a magnet during the Christmas season; we will even see a few tour buses from the city every year; people quietly line up along the street, in awe, as always!

Yes, for my Real Estate colleagues, buyers and sellers; this is such a big draw that we actually make this an item to be disclosed; which usually bring ensuasiastic, happy smiles to all parties involved!

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Real Estate
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA REAL ESTATE - Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa. Starter Home to Luxury Property. REO (Bank Owned), Short Sale, View Homes, Architecural Distictive Homes. Investment, 1031 Exchange. Chinese Realtor.

Winter Spare the Air Day in Marin County 12/12

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 01:44:57 -0500

Courtsey of Spare the Air in the San Francisco Bay Area

Tomorrow, 12/12, Sunday, is the Winter Spare the Air Day.

Winter

Spare the Air

The Winter Spare the Air program notifies residents when particulate matter levels are anticipated to be unhealthy. On these high pollution days, the Air District will issue a Winter Spare the Air Alert which prohibits wood burning throughout the Bay Area.

Spare the Air in the Winter

The Winter Spare the Air program notifies Bay Area residents when particulate levels are anticipated to be unhealthy.

In the wintertime, particulate matter — especially particulate matter 2.5 microns or smaller in size (PM2.5) — can become a serious problem in the region. To protect public health, the Air District will issue a Winter Spare the Air Alert when PM2.5 concentrations are expected to be unhealthy.

From November 1, 2009, through February 28, 2010, under the Air District's wood-burning regulation, when a Winter Spare the Air Alert is in effect, burning wood, firelogs, pellets, or any other solid fuels in your fireplace, woodstove, or other wood-burning device is illegal.

When wood burning is allowed, residents who do burn in a fireplace or outdoor fire pit must still burn cleanly using dry, seasoned firewood, and not burn garbage, leaves or other material that would cause excessive smoke. Residents who exceed the excess visible smoke provision in the wood-burning rule could still be subject to an Air District citation or penalty.

Follow these links for more information on the Air District's wood-burning regulation, and instructions on how to comply.

Winter Spare the Air Alert Notifications

Residents and businesses can call 1-877-4NO-BURN (1-877-466-2876) to check the Winter Spare the Air Alert status and to report wood smoke concerns in their area.

Residents can sign up to receive automatic Phone Alerts by calling 1-800-430-1515. If you signed up last year, you will remain on the roster to receive calls when this year's Winter Spare the Air season starts up again in November 2009

Residents can also sign up for EnviroFlash AirAlerts to receive e-mail notification when Winter Spare the Air Alerts are issued. If you signed up last year, you should remain on the roster to receive e-mail notifications when this year's Winter Spare the Air season starts up again in November 2009.

Wood Smoke

The nine counties that surround San Francisco Bay are home to almost seven million residents and an estimated 1.4 million fireplaces and woodstoves. Wood smoke air pollution from these wood-burning appliances has been a health concern in the Bay Area for many years, especially on winter evenings. Wood burning produces about one-third of the particulate pollution on a typical winter night.

Learn more about the health effects of wood smoke.
See the Spare the Air 2007-2008, 2006-2007, 2005-2006, and 2004-2005 Winter Surveys of Bay Area residents.
View historical "box scores" listing the number of times particulate matter standards have been exceeded on an annual basis in the Bay Area.

Marin County Property Tax Deadline is Friday, December 10th

Sun, 05 Dec 2010 19:01:34 -0500

Are you like most of the other property owners who like to wait until the last day to pay your property tax?

The deadline for payment of the first installment of the 2010-11 county property tax bill is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10.

Payments must be postmarked by Friday or delivered to the tax collector's office at the Civic Center no later than 5 p.m. that day to avoid a 10-percent penalty.

Property taxes may be paid online at www.co.marin.ca.us/paytax or by phone at 800-985-7277 with either a credit card or electronic funds transfer.

The second tax payment is due April 10.

For more information, including programs helping those who cannot afford their tax bill, call the tax collector's office at 499-6133 or visit www.co.marin.ca.us/taxes.

Fabulous San Marin Executive Home, 2900+sf, 4Beds/3Baths, View, Garden. Great Location!

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:16:47 -0400

Fabulous location in covented Greystone Gardens in San Marin neighborhood is sited on a quite cul de sac with views of surrounding hills.

For More Pictures, Click www.31SophiaCT.com

San Marin Executive home on a quite cul-de-sac. Great Location!

Bright, open floor plan, formal living and dining room has cathedral ceiling and oversized windows to bring sunshine in. Great room as kitchen with breakfast area and large breakfast bar which open to cozy family room with beautiful fireplace, build-in work station and shelves.

Granite kitchen with gas burners, build-in overn, microwave, dishwasher and disposal.

walk accross upstairs balcony witih build-in desk to the oversized master suite with cathedral ceiling and view of Mt. Burdell. Master bathroom has soaking tub,separate shower, double vanity and huge walk-in closet. 2 more bedrooms and full bath.

Gorgeous Hills Views. Fabulous Garden with lush grass, beautiful flowers, and fruit trees.

Double paned windows. Central Air. Three car tandem garage. Close to public transportation, shopping, biking, hiking. Award Winning Schools!

For More Pictures, Click www.31SophiaCT.com

$3,100 monthly rent.
$3,100 Security Deposit
First Month Rent and Security Deposit to start
Credit Check
No Pets, No Smoking
Prefer Long Term Rental.

To See or for More Information or get a link for the listing...
Call Listing Agent Sylvia Barry (415) 717-0293 or
email Sylvia at sylvia@SylviaBarryRE.com
http://www.SylviaBarryRE.com

Frank Howard Allen Realtors DRE Lic.# 01415544

Marin Property Owners should Apply for Property Tax Re-Assessment Prior to November 01, 2010

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 02:32:31 -0400

Thinking that maybe you are paying more than your share of Property Tax?

Marin county property owners can apply for re-assessment of their property tax annually for a slight relief.

The filing period is July 2 through November 1, 2010.

This is to request an informal review of the assessment of your property if you feel that the market value of your home is less than the assessed value as of January 1, 2010. If approved by the county, your property tax for the coming year will be lower based on the lower assessed property value - note that this will be a temporary reduction.

You will need to provide the county with three properties that sold close to January 1, 2010 and no later than March 31, 2010. You will then be able to provide your opinion on the value of your home based on the properties selected.

Please click oh the link for the Marin County Property Informal Assessment Review Request Form.

The form has to be postmarked before 4PM, November 1, 2010 to be accepted.

Please let me know if you have any questions or if you need assistance to fill out the form.

Every little bit help counts!

Fleet Week Coming to San Francisco

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 02:13:22 -0400

Fleet Week always draws thousands of people to come and watch one of the most precise, incredible and awe inspiring performances with one of the most amazing background, San Francisco and the Bay, in the workd. They are never disappointed!

The Marines, the Navy and the Coast Guard joined force to offer another show of prowess with a postcard perfect background of the Bay Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge and the pictorials city rising from the blue water on yet another perfect weekend!

Other than the naval fleet, one of the most anticipated and watched display is the Blue Angels with their perfect, precise, seemingly impossible maneuver. They impress, over and over again!

In Marin county, you can go to the Marin Headlands to get one of the best views of the Blue Angels flying overhead and over the Golden Gate Bridge.

This week's Fleet Week, is billed as the biggest Fleet Week in twenty years, begins Thursday afternoon and continues through Monday, will have six U.S. Navy ships, a Coast Guard cutter and two Canadian warships. There will also be a Vietnam-era fast patrol boat and the World War II Liberty Ship, Jeremiah O'Brien.

Fleet Week in San Francisco, something you don't want miss if you are already in San Franciscoe; or a reason to come and visit San Francisco if you are not already hear!

Follownig Pictures are curtesey of the Chronicle.

Marin Real Estate Blog

The Book Place - The Little Book Store that Can in Marin County

Refinance while Underwater? HARP Expanded to Reach More Borrowers

Carbon Monoxide Act will Save Lives

Thank You for believinig In and Standing Up for Novato Students

Nature Lover's Dream Home on over 1/3 Acre. Unique Bahia Home backs to Open Space.

Sylvia Barry

Private Paradise in Partridge Knolls, Luxury Home, Panoramic View, on 3.8 Acre,

Sylvia Barry

Coveted Rolling Hills Area - Immaculate Custom Single Story Home, Beautifully Landscaped

Sylvia Barry

Luxurious Living in Central Marin. 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths Upgraded Home with Amazing Panoramic Views!!!

Property Address:20 NORTHVIEW CT SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903

MLS: 21025612

List Price: $649,000 Reduced for Quick Sale www.SylviaBarryRE.com

Ultra Charming Marinwood Home in Parklike Setting

Christmas House, a great tradition for locals and vistors alike in Marin County

Winter Spare the Air Day in Marin County 12/12

Courtsey of Spare the Air in the San Francisco Bay Area

Winter Spare the Air

Winter

Spare the Air

Spare the Air in the Winter

Winter Spare the Air Alert Notifications

Wood Smoke

Marin County Property Tax Deadline is Friday, December 10th

Fabulous San Marin Executive Home, 2900+sf, 4Beds/3Baths, View, Garden. Great Location!

Marin Property Owners should Apply for Property Tax Re-Assessment Prior to November 01, 2010

Fleet Week Coming to San Francisco

Property Address:
20 NORTHVIEW CT
SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903

List Price: $649,000 Reduced for Quick Sale
www.SylviaBarryRE.com

Winter

Spare the Air