MDH Blog | The Marin Home Blog

Kentfield home sells for 23% over asking

2009-10-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

This magnificent property received 3-offers and sold in the first 10-days on market for $4,500,000, 23-percent over asking.

$4,500,000
Laurel Way
Kentfield, CA

5 Beds, 4 baths
4245 sqft, 1919 year

The 4,200 sqft estate was listed for $3,650,000. It was originally part of the Kent Estate, and offers the elegance of yesteryear. A traditional Colonial home featuring splendid spaces, ideal for entertaining on a grand scale. Rec room or guest/leisure quarters, master has view of pool & Mt Tam, library with wood burning fireplace, sun room and more.

If you have any questions about this property, please contact us anytime at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Modern architecture and big views come together in Old Town Sausalito

2009-10-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

This world-class Sausalito residence at the crest of Old Town was reduced $400,000, after only 41-days on the market.

$3,500,000
110 Hi Vista Rd
Sausalito, CA

3 Beds, 4 baths
4060 sqft, 1995 year
More Info >>

Originally listed for $3,900,000, this stunning contemporary home was designed to maximize the panoramic North Bay to Marin Headlands vista. Simply, one of the best views in the entire Bay Area.

For more information on this property, or to schedule a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Sausalito home gets 10 offers

2009-10-06T11:14:00.000-07:00

This charming Sausalito home in Old Town sold for $825,000 in September, 6% above the asking price of $779,000.

$825,000
3rd Street
Sausalito, CA

2 Beds, 2 baths
991 sqft, 1920 year

Newly renovated, adorable 2-bed cottage with fabulous panoramic city and bay views from Coit Tower to Bay Bridge, Alcatraz and Angel Is. Restaurants, cafes, music, ferry - only a few blocks away.

If you have any questions about this property, please contact us anytime at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Market Report | September 2009

2009-10-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

Marin County home sales were brisk in September, helping boost prices yet again - the average price rose 11%.

The median price of a single-family home in Marin was $825,000, flat compared with the previous month and 144 homes were sold - down slightly from last month. In August, the median price was up 6.5% to $825,000 and 164 homes were sold. Though prices were still 5.7% below a year ago, the number of homes sold was about the same and this is very encouraging. Hopefully, this trend continues.

Recent trends suggest the housing market is stabilizing, and it looks like now is a good time to make a long-term purchase. Interest rates dropped below 5-percent last week, and inventory is up - there are some great bargains out there right now.

Hot New Listings!

2009-10-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

We track every new listing and post reviews of the hottest new properties in Marin County. In addition, you can search the full MLS and view all homes for sale... MLS Search >>

$1,795,000
Belvedere, CA
4 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

$1,589,000
Kentfield, CA
3 beds, 2.5 baths
More Info >>

$1,798,000
Larkspur, CA
3 beds, 2 baths
More Info >>

$725,000
Mill Valley, CA
2 beds, 2 baths
More Info >>

$1,950,000
Ross, CA
4 beds, 3.5 baths
More Info >>

What is a Buyer's Agent and why should I use one to find my next home?

2009-09-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

All real estate agents are NOT the same.

Traditionally, real estate agents focus on the listing side of the business. A Buyer's Agent takes a different approach - their focus is on the buyer. This gives Buyer's Agents a competitive edge in the marketplace, enabling them to provide superior services to buyers of real property.

Unlike traditional agents, who are hired by the seller to work on the seller’s behalf, a Buyer's Agent represents the buyer exclusively - at no extra cost - and they can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. When you work with a Buyer's Agent, you get FREE, and most importantly, fair representation.

If you're buying a home - it pays to work with a Buyer's Agent.

Mortgage Rates

2009-09-24T15:51:00.001-07:00

Rates for 30-year home loans edged down for the third-straight week and are close to record lows reached over the spring.

Freddie Mac released the results of their mortgage market survey today, and the 30-year fixed mortgage averaged 5.05 percent during September 2009, compared with 5.19 percent in August. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.09 percent.

This is the lowest monthly average since May, when rates averaged 4.85 percent. The all-time low of 4.78% was recorded the week of April 2. Freddie Mac's survey dates back to 1971.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey [Freddie Mac]

$4.85 million Mill Valley retreat

2009-09-21T09:55:00.000-07:00

Luxury resort living gets a new definition in this gracious 5,700 sqft gated East Coast sytle home in Mill Valley.

$4,850,000
51 Edgewood Ave
Mill Valley, CA

5 Beds, 5 baths
5671 sqft, 2004 year
More Info >>

Listed for $4.85 million, this elegant five-bedroom home built in 2004 sits on over 1/2-acre with spectacular views of the city, bay and Mt Tam. Quality construction, ideal layout, with countless features and amenities - all within an easy walk to the town of Mill Valley.

For more information on this property, or to request a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

$350K reduction for this Mill Valley contemporary

2009-09-14T13:48:00.001-07:00

Huge price drop on premier Mill Valley retreat with Tahoe-like views and spacious multi-tiered redwood decks.

$2,450,000
667 Sequoia Valley
Mill Valley, CA

4 Beds, 3.5 baths
3707 sqft, 1989 year
More Info >>

Originally listed for $2,800,000, home & nature seamlessly blended in this unique contemporary renovation with the highest grade materials and artistic open plan interiors. Michael Glasser Ferrari-inspired kitchen fit-out, Patrick Lutton custom climate control wine cellar, master retreat with sitting room, whole house generator and 3-car custom garage by Garage Solutions.

For more information on this property, or to schedule a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Market Report | August 2009

2009-09-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

Home prices in Marin are showing signs of life. Last month, home sales jumped - median price up 6.5% from the previous.

The median price of a single-family home in Marin was $825,000, down (only) 5% from $870,000 last year, and 166 homes were sold - up from the 160 homes in August 2008. In July, the median price fell 7% to $771,500 and 165 homes were sold.

While prices were still down 5% from a year earlier, that was a big improvement compared with July's 23% decline from 2008. This encouraging data is evidence that prices may be stabilizing and hints of an upward turn from a bottom - hopefully, not short-lived.

Hot New Listings!

2009-09-02T14:54:00.000-07:00

We track every new listing and post reviews of the hottest new properties in Marin County. In addition, you can search the full MLS and view all homes for sale... MLS Search >>

$2,599,999
Belvedere, CA
4 beds, 4 baths
More Info >>

$1,695,000
Corte Madera, CA
4 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

$1,850,000
Mill Valley, CA
4 beds, 3.5 baths
More Info >>

$1,450,000
San Anselmo, CA
3 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

$2,245,000
Tiburon, CA
5 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

Belvedere lagoon home sells for $5.1 million

2009-09-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

This fabulous Belvedere lagoon home just sold for $5,100,000, fetching an impressive $1,140/sqft.

$5,100,000
Edgewater Rd
Belvedere, CA

5 Beds, 5.5 baths
4469 sqft, 1994 year

The 4,500 sqft contemporary was listed for $5.5 million. Built by the owner in 1994, the home features a huge double lot at the tip of the lagoon with water views and large entertaining areas inside and out.

If you have any questions about this property, please contact us anytime at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Mortgage Rates

2009-08-27T19:47:00.001-07:00

Low mortgage rates helping to stabilize the housing market.

Freddie Mac released the results of their mortgage market survey today, and the 30-year fixed mortgage averaged 5.19 percent during August 2009, compared with 5.22 percent in July. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.40 percent. Mortgage rates remain historically low, which is helping to sustain a high level of affordability in the housing market. Low rates contributed to existing home sales rising for the fourth consecutive month.

The all-time low of 4.78% was recorded the week of April 2. Freddie Mac's survey dates back to 1971.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey [Freddie Mac]

$48 million landmark Belvedere estate

2009-08-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Newly renovated 9,023 sqft estate perched on top of Belvedere Island is the most expensive home in Marin County.

$48,000,000
440 Golden Gate Ave
Belvedere, CA

5 Beds, 6 baths
9023 sqft, 2004 year
More Info >>

Listed for $48 million, this five-bedroom landmark estate offers breathtaking views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island. Historical architectural details include; foyer with staircase of bronze balustrade, elegant dining room with hand glazed walls, magnificent garden with antique stones from China, pool with Indonesian stone lining and much more.

For more information on this property, or to request a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

$504K drop for historic Belvedere estate

2009-08-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

Major price reduction on this historic Belvedere Island estate with stunning panoramic bay and city views.

$3,495,000
207 Beach Rd
Belvedere, CA

5 Beds, 5 baths
3949 sqft, 1899 year
More Info >>

Originally listed for $3,999,000, this gracious Belvedere home is a great value for the island. One of the first homes on Belvedere, this historic landmark offers old world charm and all the modern day conveniences for practical family living. With 5-bedrooms, 4.5 baths, au-pair suite, mature gardens, level lawn and 4-car garage.

For more information on this property, or to schedule a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Mill Valley oasis listed for $3,500,000

2009-08-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

This ultra private 4500 sqft oasis nestled amoung the trees represents Mill Valley at its absolute finest.

$3,500,000
4 Cottage Ave
Mill Valley, CA

5 Beds, 3.5 baths
4595 sqft, 1907 year
More Info >>

Listed for $3.5 million, this home is located 1/2-mile from downtown on a private side street. All the interior details are impeccable and the grounds boast a rock-lined creek, an infinity swimming pool with waterfall, fountain, hot tub, lawn and abundant outdoor living.

For more information on this property, or to request a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Market Report | July 2009

2009-08-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

Home prices in Marin have been going up and down since the beginning of the year, and July was no different. Last month, home sales fell - median price down 7% from the previous month.

The median price of a single-family home in Marin was $771,500, down 23% from $1,000,000 last year, and 165 homes were sold - down from the 183 homes in July 2008. In June, the median price jumped 16% to $833,000 and 185 homes were sold.

Average prices were up in all areas except for Mill Valley, Novato and San Rafael where prices fell 34%, 5% and 3%, respectively.

Hot New Listings!

2009-08-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

We track every new listing and post reviews of the hottest new properties in Marin County. In addition, you can search the full MLS and view all homes for sale... MLS Search >>

$1,298,000
Corte Madera, CA
3 beds, 2 baths
More Info >>

$2,495,000
Kentfield, CA
5 beds, 3.5 baths
More Info >>

$1,495,000
Larkspur, CA
4 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

$1,995,000
Mill Valley, CA
3 beds, 2.5 baths
More Info >>

$1,999,000
Tiburon, CA
3 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

Kentfield home sells for $9.8 million

2009-07-29T12:12:00.000-07:00

This commanding Tuscan Villa sold for $9,800,000 in July, setting a new record for Marin County home sales so far this year.

$9,800,000
Palm Ave
Kentfield, CA

6 Beds, 7 baths
7200 sqft, 2003 year

The 7,200 sqft estate was listed for $10,500,000. The home features 6-bedrooms, separate guest house, media room, billiards room, a kitchen that rivals a professionals and parking for 5-cars.

If you have any questions about this property, please contact us anytime at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Marin brokers market share report

2009-07-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

The following graph compares the top Marin County brokers side-by-side, for the first half of the year.

Frank Howard Allen continues to be the market leader. Number one in the Marin and North Bay markets, with 22.26% of the market share. Coldwell Banker comes in second at 10.37%.

Mortgage Rates

2009-07-23T15:22:00.001-07:00

Mortgage rates overall have been mixed the past few weeks, while rates on the 30-year were flat-to-down slightly.

Freddie Mac released the results of their mortgage market survey today, and the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 5.20% for the week ending July 23, 2009, down from 5.42% in June. Federal Reserve Chairman Bernanke, during his July 22 Senate testimony, noted mortgage rates are lower than they were last fall, and housing affordability right now is the highest it’s been in many years.

The all-time low of 4.78% was recorded the week of April 2. Freddie Mac's survey dates back to 1971.

Last year at this time, the rate averaged 6.63%.

Mortgage rates rise this week [Freddie Mac]

Forbes home reduced $520,000

2009-07-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

This remodeled 1927 Forbes level 1 home has now been reduced for the fourth time, for a total of $520,000 in price reductions.

$1,775,000
346 G Street
San Rafael, CA

4 Beds, 3 baths
3071 sqft, 1927 year
More Info >>

Originally listed for $2,295,000, this property is priced to compete with homes of much lesser condition and location. Expanded, remodeled & beautifully landscaped, this stunning home compliments its architectural heritage.

For more information on this property, or to schedule a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Stunning new modern design in Mill Valley

2009-07-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

This new 4,700 sqft ‘Hollywood Hills’ home has sweeping views of Mt Tam and allows one to live comfortably in a private setting.

$3,295,000
28 Eagle Rock
Mill Valley, CA

4 Beds, 4 baths
4735 sqft, 2008 year
More Info >>

Listed for $3.295 million, this four-bedroom striking contemporary by architect Jerry Kler includes a huge master suite, 2 en-suite bedrooms, separate guest house, pool, spa and more.

For more information on this property, or to request a showing, please contact us at 888.DREAM-13 or by email.

Market Report | June 2009

2009-07-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Home sales bounce back in June - median price up 16%, but continue their overall decline from last year.

The median price of a single-family home in Marin was $833,000, down 23% from $1,077,500 last year, and 185 homes were sold - up from the 178 homes in June 2008. In May, the median home price in Marin was $720,000 and 146 homes were sold.

The most sizeable declines were felt in Belvedere, Corte Madera, Kentfield, Larkspur and San Anselmo. While marginal increases were seen in Fairfax, Greenbrae and Mill Valley - Ross was up considerably. Overall, results were mixed but encouraging. The Marin market seems to be finding its footing in this new environment and we’re hopeful things will continue to improve throughout the year.

Hot New Listings!

2009-07-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

We track every new listing and post reviews of the hottest new properties in Marin County. In addition, you can search the full MLS and view all homes for sale... MLS Search >>

$2,850,000
Belvedere, CA
4 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>

$1,850,000
Larkspur, CA
3 beds, 2.5 baths
More Info >>

$1,795,000
Mill Valley, CA
4 beds, 4 baths
More Info >>

$2,100,000
San Anselmo, CA
6 beds, 4 baths
More Info >>

$2,995,000
Sausalito, CA
4 beds, 3 baths
More Info >>