Category Archives: Home Improvements

Best Home Improvements, Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership

 How Flipping Houses Can Help You Go to College Debt-Free

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Having been in real estate for 23 years, I have dealt with many investors looking to buy a fixer-upper and resell it, or what we call flipping. My husband and I also have flipped a few homes, making good money and enjoying the end product. With our market changing, you would think there are not many flippers out there, but as the broker/CEO of Dynamic Real Estate, I receive multiple text messages from investors looking to buy and flip. 

This week’s article by Erin Reynolds matches what I have seen on the market and analyzes a unique way for college students to make some money and possibly go to college debt-free. 

You can find more info about Erin Reynolds on diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

As an adult returning to college, you might struggle to finance your education. But did you know that there are ways to pay for your college education while improving your financial situation at the same time? One strategy is to flip houses. House flipping essentially means purchasing a property, making some renovations or upgrades, and reselling it for profit. Today, Running for Real Estate discusses precisely how this prospect can help you pay for college and improve your overall situation!

Choosing a Good Property to Flip

The first step in flipping houses is identifying a property that has the potential for a good profit margin. The key is to look for something that is undervalued and has room for improvement. You’ll also want to consider the location of the property because it can greatly impact the resale value. Foreclosure auctions, short sales, and banked-owned properties are some excellent places to look for undervalued properties.

Exploring Kitchen Upgrades

Once you’ve chosen a property, it’s essential to make wise, cost-effective renovations that will boost the resale value. One area that can greatly increase the value of the home is the kitchen. After all, it’s the most important space for many buyers!

Consider making upgrades like new countertops, cabinets, or appliances. You could also attract buyers with a new range hood that helps improve the kitchen’s air quality. These kinds of upgrades are known to have a high return on investment and can significantly increase the house’s sale price.

Cleaning Every Room

Before listing your property for sale, you’ll want to take the time to thoroughly clean and declutter the space. A clean, organized home is much more appealing to buyers and can sell faster; it also signals to buyers that the rest of the property is in good shape. Be sure to clean every room in the house, including the windows, floors, and walls. And if you have laminate floors, be careful what kind of vacuum you use. Some vacuums with hard bristles will scratch the finish and leave you in a pickle!

Staging the Home

Staging your flip property for photos and showings will go a long way toward enticing potential buyers and getting a higher selling price. You can do this with some simple home decor and furniture arrangements. Try adding fresh flowers or plants, putting away personal items, and creating cozy spaces with pillows and throws.

Marketing the Property

Marketing is vital to a successful house-flipping business. One of the most effective ways to attract potential buyers is to go through online channels like social media and real estate websites. Consider using professional photos and descriptions that highlight the property’s features. It’s also important to write an appealing listing that will draw in buyers by discussing the benefits of the property and its location.

Go Back to School

One big benefit of house-flipping is that it allows you plenty of time to set your schedule and pursue other interests as desired — like going back to school! Furthering your education is a great way to boost your confidence while also opening lots of doors career-wise. There are plenty of lucrative degree options out there, like data analytics, and an online learning platform offers individuals the flexibility to earn their degree on their own time, from the comfort of their own home.

Hiring Professionals Along the Way

Flipping houses is hard work and can be overwhelming at times. Hiring professionals to help with specific aspects can ensure that everything runs smoothly while reducing your stress. You might include a contractor for renovations, an experienced real estate agent to help sell the property, a lender to help with the financing, and a photographer to capture professional images. These experts can help you navigate the process of flipping houses and make it more manageable (and successful).

Summary

If you need to pay for your college tuition as an adult, flipping houses is one of the best ways to do it. Learning to select a profitable property, making the right renovations, marketing the property effectively, and implementing the other tips above will put you in an excellent position to make money and finance your education. Remember that flipping houses will require time, effort, and a bit of financial risk. Be sure to do your research and plan accordingly so that you can turn this practice into a stepping stone to long-term success!

Whether you’re interested in running or real estate, Running for Real Estate is a great place to learn more! Questions? Call 916–342–2446.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916–342–2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Relocation, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate

Navigating Your Housing Dilemma: 
 Starter Home vs. Forever Home

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Photo by Freepik

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, I like to analyze the real estate market and give you my most honest advice and feedback. October for some reason is always the busiest month of the year for me and I have helped a few buyers and sellers achieve their goals and dreams, even though our interest rates are currently above 8 percent.

That’s one reason, we need to understand how to enjoy home ownership in any market conditions. As the guest author Erin Reynolds wrote in her article below, a homebuyer should weigh the benefits of a starter home. You can find more info about Erin Reynolds on diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

When it comes to the age-old question of whether to invest in a more affordable starter home or go all-in on a forever home, the decision can be a daunting one. Your choice of a home is not just a financial decision; it’s a life decision. In this article, courtesy of Running for Real Estate, we explore key considerations that can help you make an informed choice that suits your current circumstances and future aspirations.

Weigh the Benefits of a Starter Home

The prospect of entering the real estate market is often less intimidating with a starter home, given the lower upfront costs. This kind of home offers you a way to start building equity rather than paying rent. Additionally, starter homes often have the potential for appreciation. For example, investing in a neighborhood that’s in the early stages of gentrification could lead to significant returns in a few years.

Recognize the Drawbacks of a Starter Home

On the flip side, starter homes often come with limitations, such as restricted space, which may not be suitable for a growing family. There’s also the possibility that you could outgrow the home quicker than you anticipated. Resale can be challenging as well, particularly if the market takes a downturn. For instance, homes in areas that become oversaturated with new developments could see a decrease in property value.

Understand the Advantages of a Forever Home

A forever home brings with it the promise of long-term stability. Unlike starter homes, these properties typically offer more room for growth and a variety of desirable amenities like nicer appliances, updated kitchens and baths, and more yard space. Imagine a spacious yard or extra bedrooms that could one day become a nursery or home office.

Consider the Pitfalls of a Forever Home

Forever homes certainly come with their own set of challenges, such as higher initial costs, which might necessitate a larger down payment or a higher mortgage rate. You’re also committing to a specific location for a longer period, and maintenance or upkeep can be significantly more demanding. For example, larger properties might require regular professional landscaping, something you’d need to budget for.

Plan for the Future

When considering which type of home to buy, think beyond the immediate concerns and anticipate your long-term needs. Life changes like marriage or having children can drastically impact your living situation. Moreover, it’s vital to consider the resale potential of the home. For example, a house in a good school district will likely be easier to sell down the line.

Connect with a Great Broker

Navigating the complex real estate landscape, whether you’re considering a starter home or a forever home, typically hinges on partnering with a reputable agent who comprehends both your unique needs and the dynamics of the local market. A skilled broker like Carmen Micsa, can be your guiding light, helping you navigate the intricacies of the buying process, identifying properties that align with your preferences and budget, and providing invaluable insights into the ever-changing real estate market conditions.

Explore Mortgage Options

Understanding the types of mortgages available can significantly impact your monthly payments and overall affordability. Different mortgage options have various interest rates and terms that can either constrain or stretch your budget. For instance, a fixed-rate mortgage offers predictable payments, while an adjustable-rate mortgage might provide lower initial payments but can fluctuate over time.

Safeguard Your Investment

Once you determine what to buy, it’s crucial to factor in the costs of insuring your property. Homeowners insurance covers damage to your home’s structure, theft of belongings, and injuries on your property. However, for comprehensive coverage against home system or appliance breakdowns, you’ll need a home warranty — an annual contract that can protect heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing systems, and appliances. Understanding these insurance and warranty options is vital as you weigh the decision between a starter home and a forever home, and this site could be helpful in making a well-informed choice that aligns with your long-term financial security and lifestyle preferences.

The choice between a starter home and a forever home is a deeply personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, considering your financial situation, and keeping an eye on the future, you can make a decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Remember, your home is not just a structure; it’s a place where memories are made and dreams are realized.

Choose wisely, and your home will be the foundation of a bright future.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home Improvements, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Relocation, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Seller's market, Selling Your Home

Essential Tips for Moving While Starting a Home Business

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Our real estate market is as hot as the 100+ degree Sacramento weather

Image via Unsplash

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, my favorite part is being in the trenches, helping my sellers and buyers. July has been a super busy month for me working with sellers and noticing that moving can be a challenge, especially for people working from home, which is why I accepted the article below by guest author Erin Reynolds. You can find more info about her at diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

If you are considering starting a company from home, then you need to look around and determine if you have the space necessary to support your family and accomplish your business goals. If you don’t, then it may be time to move. But how difficult is it to accomplish both? Here are some tips from Running for Real Estate to help you start your business and have a successful move at the same time.

Finding the Right Property for Your Needs

The first step that you will want to take is to find a home that will allow you to live and work comfortably. Research the town or area where you plan to move and once you find the best city, sign up for alerts for houses that are up for sale that meet your criteria. You will probably want to start by looking at the area of the prospective homes and see how many rooms they have. You may want to have space between your office and where your kids will be so you can have the quiet that you need to get your work done.

If you need to get a rental in the meantime, no worries! There are plenty out there, so you can afford to be picky. In addition to price, check the amenities to find the perfect fit for your needs. This has the added benefit of allowing you to learn more about an area before purchasing a home, as well.

Make Moving Easier

Since you will have a lot on your plate with your business, you will need to find ways to split your time or make the moving process easier. We never realize how much stuff we own until we decide to move, so to make things more manageable, The Spruce notes that you should start decluttering each room one by one while you remove the items you no longer need and donate them to a charity so they can be used elsewhere.

Think Realty points out that you should also consider hiring professional movers to make things much easier. A good moving company will help pick up your stuff, load the truck, then drive to your new destination and help you unpack. That way, you can focus more on your business. When looking for movers, make sure to do your research by looking online and reading previous customer reviews so you can get a real feel for the company. Once you have a shortlist, ask for quotes so you can get a good deal.

Keep Your Business Running During Your Move

If you don’t want to wait to start your business until after your move then you will want to have some solutions for how you will keep your company going during the transition. For instance, you can access your files from anywhere by using a cloud computing solution, like those offered by Amazon or Microsoft. That way, you can download or modify your paperwork no matter where you are in your travels.

If you decide to start your business after the move, use a formation company to help you establish a limited liability company. They can make it easier for you to start an LLC. In just a few minutes, they can walk you through the process online, ensuring that your business is set up with full legal compliance.

Next, it’s time to start spreading the word about your business! First, create a well-designed logo that makes a memorable first impression, builds brand awareness, and separates your business from the others. If you’re on a tight budget, instead of paying for a design service, you can use a tool to create your text logo. Go online and design a creative logo by choosing a style and icon and adding any pertinent text. You’ll be able to view an assortment of logos for inspiration and customize fonts and colors of your choosing.

Like organizing a move, becoming an entrepreneur can be challenging. As you can see, though, with some thought and smart planning, you can successfully move while starting a new business at the same time. Search the rental market to help you learn more about the area, plan your move carefully, and upgrade your marketing game to keep your business running smoothly.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your Home Faster with Staging, Selling your home in the winter, Staging Your Home for More Money, Uncategorized

THREE key questions to ask before buying your first rental property

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By Katie Conroy, the creator of Advice Mine. She enjoys writing about lifestyle topics and created the website to share advice she has learned through experience, education, and research.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

With so many people investing in real estate these days, you may be thinking about taking the leap into being a landlord. It’s a move that can bring a lot of perks and profits if you plan carefully. So before you start looking for a residential or vacation rental, be sure to connect with an experienced agent from Carmen Micsa and go through these essential questions to help you make the right decisions.

What Costs Should I Be Concerned About?

If you are looking to buy an investment property, you already know that you will need to prepare for the initial cost of that home. Coming up with a reasonable price range is one of the most important financial considerations you can take when preparing to purchase a rental property, so think carefully about what your desired price range should look like. Depending on market trends in your preferred location, you could end up picking homes that are slightly above your target price and offer less, but you should research real estate trends carefully before doing so to see if a buyer’s or seller’s market exists. Keep in mind that Sacramento homes have been selling at a median price of $395,000 over the last month.

Aside from the cost of buying your first investment property, you should also be prepared for other expenses associated with owning a rental. If you are buying a vacation property, hiring a management company should be included in your budget, since an experienced property manager can provide 24/7 customer service, on-demand professional cleanings, and easy-to-understand info about bookings. By ensuring you and your guests have access to these perks, you can net more bookings and more glowing reviews.

What Upgrades Should I Be Focused On?

Chances are, you will need to make some repairs and improvements to your investment property before you list it as a vacation or residential rental. There are some pros and cons to marketing your home either as a long-term or short-term rental, so also be sure to think about these as you make your initial upgrades and repairs.

For both vacation and residential rental properties, investing in new paint for the exterior of the home can be an effective way to boost curb appeal, although this sort of improvement project can be a big job that necessitates detailed planning, thorough preparation and appropriate tools. The size of your home and materials needed will determine how much you’ll spend to freshen up your property’s exterior.

Wondering what color to use for your home’s exterior? If you want to add curb appeal to your investment property, most experts recommend shying away from bright hues and using pops of color in your landscaping or even for the front door. Speaking of landscaping, if you’re concerned about keeping your investment property secure, you can also consider using protective plants in the front yard.

What Other Steps Should I Take to Ensure Profits?

Creating a plan for your finances and home improvements can ensure some ROI for your rental property. If you want to maximize that ROI, there are some other measures you can use to attract potential renters and protect yourself from potential losses. You can start by making sure that your rental rates are not too high or low for your property and area. While you don’t want to miss out on potential profits by setting rental rates too low, you also don’t want to lose potential tenants because similar properties have much lower rental rates.

To boost profits and keep your own stress levels low, you may also want to consider using a manager to help out with your first investment property. While using a property manager means paying additional fees, the expertise and guidance you will receive in return can be well worth the added expense. Plus, you may be able to deduct management fees from your taxes as a rental property owner.

Owning an investment property can be worthwhile. You just need to take the right steps from the start. Take stock of overall expenses, necessary upgrades and get a read on what you can expect when it comes to making a profit. With a smart approach, you will see profits roll in much faster, and ensure ROI on your rental.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, or seasoned investor, Carmen Micsa will provide you with outstanding and dedicated real estate service! Call (916) 342-2446 or email carmenmicsa@yahoo.com to schedule a meeting!

Bedroom remodel, Best Home Improvements, Buying and selling a home, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Pricing your home right, Real estate and home ownership, Remodeling, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Selling Your Home

5 Simple Tricks to Making a New Home Feel Like Your Own

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Photo Credit Unsplash

 

 

Moving to a new home can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. Dealing with packing, unpacking, and all the initial move-in tasks is enough to make you feel too exhausted to feel at home right away. Thankfully, there are some simple tricks to settling into your new place.

 

Take Care of Repairs Right Away

 

A leaky faucet or running toilet may seem like it can be put off for now. However, small issues in your new home can lead to big problems later on and even bigger bills for you. So, make sure these items are taken care of as soon as you move into your new place — or beforehand if possible. If you live in a rental, contact your property manager ASAP to schedule repairs. For homeowners, it’s fairly simple to do many common repairs yourself, and you can even save money doing so!

 

Throw Some New Colors on Your Walls

 

Nothing makes a home feel like your own like some fresh paint on the walls. There are so many ways to coordinate paint colors and create a palette for your new home. If you rent your home, just make sure to get the okay from your property manager/landlord first. You can look for deals on paint, as well as decor to further perk up your place. Then, save some more money by completing the job yourself. All you need are some basic painting supplies and a helpful tutorial to add a personal touch to your home. Make sure you tape off any borders, and cover your furniture before you begin.

 

Get Creative with Storage

 

A new home is an opportunity to get yourself truly organized. Having your home decluttered and tidy can help relieve stress and make you feel more comfortable in your new environment. So, look online for some creative storage solutions and then pick up all you need to organize your home. Retailers like Kohl’s have hundreds of accessories to get your home in order. Even better, you can easily find Kohls coupons or discount codes that can save you money on every shopping trip.

 

Add Some Air-Purifying Plants

 

It may come as a surprise to know that the air in your new home can get dirty quick. Luckily, air-purifying plants can help clear toxins, and they make for gorgeous, easy home decor, too! Best of all, you can score some majorly helpful plants for majorly low prices, if you know where to shop. Recently, Amazon has even gotten in on the house plant trend, and you can order any plant you want for a fraction of the cost.

 

Host a Small Housewarming Soiree

 

One of the best ways to settle into a new home, and meet your new neighbors, is to host a housewarming party! Even on a small budget, you can put together a soiree that will make you feel at home and your guests feel welcome. Many party supply stores offer coupons online that will save you money when picking up cups, plates and other essentials. When it comes to snacks and food, you can’t go wrong with essentials from Trader Joe’s. With their everyday low prices and $2 wines, you can stock up for your party, and stock your pantry too, without breaking your budget.

Making a house into a home can be easy if you know what to take care of first. Adding personal touches with inexpensive decor, paint, and home projects can make a home feel like your own.

 

Article written by guest writer Erin Reynolds with http://www.diymama.net.

 

Now that summer is almost here, I have special incentives for buyers and sellers, such as money back towards closing costs and reduced commission when selling, so please mention this blog and you will also receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

 

To search free listings, please go to http://www.dynamicsacramentohomes.com.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Bedroom remodel, Best Home Improvements, Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home maintenance, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Selling Your Home

Three of the Best Home Improvement Projects to Increase Your Resale Value

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Bing.com images

 

Increasing the resale value of your home is a good idea, regardless of when you plan to sell. Many homeowners complete DIY projects to save money; after all, it’s cheaper to purchase materials and do the labor yourself than hiring a contractor. But, homeowners save money on improvements only when the projects are within the scope of their capabilities. To help you get the most out of your improvements, we suggest both DIY and professional projects.

 

1. Make Roof Repairs

 

Making repairs to your home is important not only for maintenance purposes, but also to show potential buyers that you have been taking care of your home and preventing damage. One such repair is fixing your roof. Buyers shy away from homes that need roof repairs and new roofs because they fear a large expense immediately after investing in a home.

 

Image via Pixabay

 

When you repair your roof, you not only prevent water damage, but you also attract more buyers who appreciate that you have taken care of the repair. You’re more likely to sell your home quickly when you repair the roof, and you are much more likely to get your asking price, too.

Of course, making roof repairs or replacing your roof is a home improvement project best left to the professionals. When hiring a roofing contractor, you should take the time to ensure you choose a reputable one.

Watch out for traveling contractors or those that come to town immediately after a storm assuming that you have roof damage. Get bids from several reputable, local firms and ask for references that you can call to ask questions.

 

2. Update Your Lighting Fixtures

 

One simple DIY home improvement is updating your lighting fixtures. Old fixtures date your home and don’t deliver the fresh look potential buyers seek. There are several ways to update your lights, from spray painting them to change the finish to completely replacing them. In fact, Good Housekeeping shares nine DIY ways to transform lighting fixtures for homeowners who do not want the expense of buying new ones.

If you do opt to replace your lighting fixtures, make sure you put safety first by turning off the light at the breaker box instead of flipping the wall switch off. You also should test the wires with a circuit voltage tester from a hardware store before doing any work.

Also, make sure that you replace a fixture with the correct wattage bulbs and avoid exceeding the maximum wattage of the fixture. And, always have an assistant to hold the fixture while you wire it or attach it to the ceiling.

 

3. Update Your Kitchen

 

Kitchen updates are one of the best ways to increase the resale value of your home because people use this room more than any other room in the house. Potential buyers look for updates such as stone countertops, tile backsplashes, islands, and high-end appliances. So it goes without saying that a kitchen remodel can be quite the undertaking.

Because an entire kitchen remodel gets to be costly, decide which projects fall within your budget and which you are comfortable completing yourself. For example, you likely can handle giving your kitchen a fresh coat of paint or installing a tile backsplash.

But, these projects can be overwhelming and costly if you do them incorrectly. Planning ahead when attempting DIY projects can save you a lot of time and money. When in doubt, consult your real estate agent to help you determine what’s worth upgrading.

There are several DIY and professional home improvements that will increase your home’s resale value. Hire a roofing contractor to repair or replace your roof if necessary. Then, update your lighting fixtures and your kitchen by practicing a project you’ve never done before and hiring pros to complete the ones that you can’t handle.

 

Article written by guest writer Erin Reynolds with www.diymama.net.

 

Now that spring is here, I have special incentives for buyers and sellers, such as money back towards closing costs and reduced commission when selling, so please mention this blog and you will also receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

To search free listings, please go to http://www.dynamicsacramentohomes.com.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!