The word September on a chalkboard.

September: The Strategic Advantage

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The Strategic Advantage of September in Real Estate

Spring often gets all the attention, but September is a season buyers and sellers in Folsom and the Sacramento area shouldn’t ignore. Fall can create the perfect window of opportunity in the local market.

Motivated Buyers and Sellers

By September, many buyers have already spent the summer searching. Now they’re ready to make a move before the year ends. Sellers are motivated too, often hoping to close before the holidays. In Folsom, this can mean smoother and faster transactions.

Reduced Competition

The busy summer season slows down in the fall. With fewer listings on the market, sellers face less competition and their homes stand out more. Buyers may also find less pressure and fewer bidding wars compared to spring.

September’s Seasonal Appeal

Folsom truly shines in the fall. Tree-lined neighborhoods show off their colors, and the crisp air makes the city’s trails, parks, and lakes more inviting than ever. Buyers exploring homes here can picture themselves enjoying morning walks around Lake Natoma, biking along the American River Parkway, or strolling through the Folsom Historic District before heading back to their cozy new home.

Timing Is Everything

Spring may be the “traditional” real estate season, but waiting until then isn’t always the smartest move. In September, both buyers and sellers in Folsom can benefit from a more focused market and highly motivated participants.

Summary

September offers real advantages in the Folsom real estate market. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, this season could be the perfect time to reach your goals—and start enjoying everything Folsom has to offer.

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A pile of cash indicating that the right lender can save you money

The Right Lender: More Than Just a Rate

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Why the Right Lender Can Make or Break Your Home Purchase

Buying a home in Folsom—or anywhere in the Sacramento area—is one of life’s biggest financial moves. And while many people think first about the house itself, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right lender.

Why the Right Lender Matters

Every transaction is unique. Some buyers need to purchase before they sell, while others may be navigating complex loan structures. An experienced lender can guide you through these situations, helping you stay calm, informed, and confident.

The right lender will:

  • Walk you through the process step by step
  • Anticipate potential challenges before they happen
  • Explain your financing options clearly
  • Keep your goals as your top priority

More Than Just a Rate

Sure, it’s easy to hop online and get a quick rate quote—but numbers aren’t the whole story. The lender offering the “lowest rate” might not provide the personalized service, clear communication, or creative solutions you’ll need to make your deal successful.

A Network You Can Trust

After years of working in real estate in Folsom and throughout Sacramento, I’ve built strong relationships with local lenders who consistently deliver for my clients. They’re professionals I trust to provide exceptional service, whether you’re a first-time buyer or making a complex move-up purchase.

The Bottom Line

Your real estate journey should be exciting, not stressful. With the right lender by your side, you’ll avoid unnecessary headaches and move through the process with confidence.

If you’re planning to buy or sell in the Folsom or Sacramento area, let’s talk. I’d be happy to connect you with trusted lenders who can help make your next move smooth and successful.

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A family using their hands to make the shape of a house

Down Payment: How Much Do You Really Need?

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How Much Do You Really Need for a Down Payment? Hint: It’s Less Than You Think

Let’s talk down payment. For years, homebuyers heard the same advice—save 20% before you buy. But in today’s market, that’s not always necessary. Many loan programs allow you to get started with as little as 3%–5% down.

On a $400,000 home, that’s $12,000–$20,000 instead of the old-school $80,000. Even a 6% down payment breaks down like this:

  • $200K → $12,000
  • $300K → $18,000
  • $400K → $24,000
  • $500K → $30,000
  • $600K → $36,000
  • $700K → $42,000
  • $800K → $48,000

Keep in mind, your down payment affects your monthly costs—the more you put down, the lower your mortgage. Today’s buyers average about 7%, but the right amount depends on your budget, savings, and goals.

Loan Options to Explore

  • Conventional – 3%–5% down, PMI if under 20%.
  • FHA – Low down payment, flexible credit, but higher insurance.
  • VA – No down payment for eligible service members, veterans, and spouses.
  • USDA – No down for qualifying rural/suburban buyers.
  • Jumbo – For higher-priced homes; stricter requirements.
  • Fixed-Rate vs. ARM – Fixed offers stability; ARMs start lower but can adjust.

Bottom Line:

You don’t need 20% to buy a home. A trusted mortgage pro can walk you through your options and help you find a plan that fits your finances—so you can focus on finding the right home, not just the right number.

Learn More!

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2100 Ranch Bluff Way: Create Your Dream

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2100 Ranch Bluff Way

Huge $50,000 Price Reduction – A Rare Opportunity to Create Your Dream Home in Four Seasons!

Welcome to 2100 Ranch Bluff Way, a spacious Sausalito model in the sought-after Four Seasons 55+ community of El Dorado Hills. With a generous $50,000 price reduction, this home is now an unbeatable opportunity for those looking to personalize their forever home.

Ready for Your Personal Touch

This well-laid-out two-bedroom, two-bath home offers the perfect canvas for your vision. Whether you’re dreaming of a fresh modern update or timeless elegance, the current pricing allows for the flexibility to make it truly your own. The open-concept floorplan connects the kitchen and family room, making it ideal for entertaining friends or enjoying quiet evenings by the cozy gas fireplace.

  • living room
  • kitchen
  • great room

Relaxing Primary Suite and Tranquil Outdoor Space

The primary suite includes a spacious walk-in closet and en suite bathroom, while the second bedroom is perfect for guests, hobbies, or an office. Step outside to your own backyard oasis, featuring a peaceful pond and water feature that create a soothing, serene retreat.

The outdoor patio

Unmatched Community Amenities

Living in Four Seasons means more than just a home—it’s a lifestyle. Just steps from your front door is a scenic trail that leads to the Lodge Club House, the heart of the community. Residents enjoy access to:

  • A sparkling swimming pool
  • Tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball courts
  • A community garden
  • A calendar of events, clubs, and gatherings
Community pool and tennis courts

Ideal Location in El Dorado Hills

Located just minutes from the Town Center, you’ll love being close to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. For outdoor lovers, Folsom Lake is just a short drive away. And when it’s time for a weekend getaway, Napa Valley wine country and Lake Tahoe are both within easy reach.

No Mello Roos—Just More to Love

With no Mello Roos taxes, this home is not only a smart lifestyle choice but a smart financial one as well. Don’t miss your chance to design your perfect space and enjoy all the benefits of one of El Dorado Hills’ premier active adult communities.

Schedule a Tour Today

Contact us today to experience the charm and potential of 2100 Ranch Bluff Way. This rare opportunity won’t last long!

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1880 Point View Dr, Placerville: Space & Charm

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1880 Point View Dr, Placerville: Space, Charm & Possibility

Just Listed by Margaret & Katie for $425,000

If you’ve been dreaming of a home with room to breathe, space to gather, and a chance to make it your own—welcome to 1880 Point View Drive in beautiful Placerville.

1880 Point View Drive exterior

This 3–4 bedroom, 2-bathroom home is filled with features that make everyday living comfortable and entertaining a breeze. A spacious living room welcomes you with plenty of natural light, while the open dining area and country-style kitchen offer the perfect spot for casual meals or festive gatherings.

Versatility is key

The upstairs bonus room provides the ideal space for a 4th bedroom, home office, creative studio, or even that “she studio” you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying quiet time, the enclosed sun porch and large deck offer peaceful views and a relaxed vibe. In the summer, cool off in your above-ground pool or soak up the sunshine with plenty of space to entertain.

interior and kitchen of 1880 Point View Drive

While the home could benefit from a little TLC, it’s been thoughtfully updated over the years—offering a solid foundation for those ready to personalize and add value. And with RV parking and easy access to Hwy 50, the location offers both convenience and a lifestyle connected to the outdoors.

Exterior of home with driveway

More than a house, this home is a place with potential, peace, and promise. Whether you’re investing, or simply looking for a home with personality, this one is worth a closer look.

Listed at $425,000

Contact Margaret or Katie today to schedule a private showing and explore the possibilities.

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4th of July in Folsom with streamers and fireworks

4th of July in Folsom: Celebrate!

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Celebrate the 4th of July in Folsom with Fun, Festivities & Fireworks!

If you love hometown parades, festive races, classic rodeo thrills, and spectacular fireworks, you’re in the right place. The Folsom area knows how to do the 4th of July right—and The Melville Group is here to help you plan the perfect local celebration.

Whether you’re cheering on the parade floats in Historic Folsom, lacing up for a community fun run, or catching fireworks under the stars, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate our nation’s birthday close to home.

Historic Folsom Hometown Parade: Spirit Starts Early

Saturday, June 28, 2025
Why wait until the 4th? The celebration starts early with the Historic Folsom Hometown Parade, winding through charming Sutter Street from Scott to Reading Street.

Bring your lawn chairs and your patriotic spirit—this family-friendly parade features creative floats, community groups, and good old-fashioned fun. It’s a perfect kickoff to Independence Day week!

Folsom Firecracker Run: Start the 4th Strong

Kick off your celebration with this high-energy community event. The Folsom Firecracker features 2-mile, 5K, and 10K races—plus a Kids Fun Run, so everyone can join in. It’s a fantastic way to feel festive and fit before the rest of the day’s activities begin.

Folsom Pro Rodeo: A True Classic

A beloved tradition for over 60 years, the Folsom Pro Rodeo is a can’t-miss event held over the 4th of July. Enjoy exciting rodeo action—like bull riding and barrel racing—sanctioned by the PRCA.

Want to elevate the experience?
Grab tickets to the Corral Club, where you’ll enjoy premium seating, a private tent, bars, and TVs. It’s a great way to beat the heat while staying close to the action.

Rancho Cordova’s 4th of July at Hagen Park

Just minutes from Folsom, Hagen Park in Rancho Cordova hosts one of the area’s biggest Independence Day events.

This two-day celebration features:

  • All-American Mile & Parade
  • Carnival rides & circus acts
  • Nightly live concerts
  • Ice cold beer garden
  • And of course… FIREWORKS! 🎆

It’s the ultimate way to spend the 4th with friends, family, and neighbors.

Local Living at Its Best

Folsom and its neighboring communities offer a small-town sense of pride with big-time celebration energy.

At The Melville Group, we’re proud to be part of this vibrant community—and we’re always here to help you find your place in it.

Wishing you a safe and joy-filled Fourth of July!

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A chalkboard with a drawing of a house and the word Home Sweet Home

Ten Simple Ways to Make Your House a Home

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Ten Simple Ways to Make Your House a Home

Because in the Sacramento Valley, comfort meets community

Buying a house is a big milestone—but feeling at home is the real goal. Whether you’re settling into a Folsom foothills retreat or a Midtown bungalow, a few thoughtful touches can go a long way in transforming four walls into your favorite place on Earth. It’s time to make your house a home!

Here are ten down-to-earth ideas to help make your house feel like home sweet home.

1. Start with the Welcome

Paint the front door. Add a potted plant from Green Acres. Hang a seasonal wreath. Little upgrades around the entryway say “come on in” before you even open the door.

A welcome mat that says Home Sweet Home

2. Design for Your Life

Have a bonus room? Turn it into something you need—a peaceful reading nook, yoga corner, or a Zoom-friendly home office. It’s not about having more space; it’s about using what you have with purpose.

3. Build Your Own Traditions

From Friday pizza nights to morning coffee on the patio, it’s the rituals that add heart to a home. These small routines give your house a rhythm that feels truly yours.

4. Showcase What You Love

Fill your shelves with family photos, vintage finds from local markets, or mementos from Tahoe trips. Your home should tell your story—not just match a Pinterest board.

5. Add Life with Greenery

Whether it’s a backyard tomato patch or basil growing on the kitchen sill, plants breathe life into a home. Plus, watching things grow brings a deep sense of satisfaction (and can smell amazing!).

A tomato plant with cherry tomatoes

6. Layer on the Comfort to Make Your House a Home

Think soft throws, plush rugs, warm lighting. Add a candle from a local maker or some ambient tunes—whatever makes your space feel like your personal escape.

7. Fill It with Laughter

Homes are meant to be lived in. Host a backyard BBQ. Invite friends over for a Kings game watch party. Break in that dining table with good food and better company.

8. Celebrate the Little Things

Decorate for the seasons, make Nana’s banana bread, or hang up your kids’ art. The small, personal moments are what give a home its heartbeat.

9. Let Your Home Grow with You

Don’t stress about getting everything perfect right away. Over time, your style, your needs, and even your neighborhood may shift—and that’s a beautiful thing.

10. Find Your Spot

Everyone has one. A sunlit breakfast nook. A swing in the backyard. The perfect couch corner for reading. When you find it, you’ll know—this is why you came home.

Whether you’re just unpacking or you’ve been in your house for years, it’s never too late to make it feel more like you. And if you’re dreaming of a new place to call home in the Sacramento region, I’d love to help you get there.

Let’s find the place where your next chapter begins. 🏡

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A thermometer showing temperatures over 100 degrees

How Folsom Beats the Heat: Summer Fun

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How Folsom Beats the Heat: Summer Fun

Temperatures are rising, but Folsom beats the heat! The Sacramento area may be known for its sizzling summers, but locals know how to keep things cool. In Folsom, you’ll find even more ways to enjoy the sunshine without the sweat.

1. Make a Splash at Folsom Lake
Folsom Lake is a summer essential. Whether you’re boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just floating with friends, it’s a refreshing way to embrace the heat. Hit the beach at Granite Bay or Beals Point for a laid-back lakeside day.

2. Ride (or Stroll) the American River Bike Trail
With its shaded stretches and scenic views, the American River Bike Trail is a favorite for early risers looking to get outside before peak heat. It begins at Discovery Park in downtown Sacramento and extends to Beal’s Point at Folsom Lake. The trail offers scenic views of the river and is used for biking, walking, running, and other recreational activitiesBonus: It’s great for spotting local wildlife and soaking up that foothill charm.

3. Shop and Chill at the Palladio
Beat the heat indoors at the Palladio with boutique shopping, delicious eats, and a cool, modern movie theater, and a Farmer’s Market. Grab a smoothie or iced coffee and treat yourself to some retail therapy.

4. Folsom Beats the Heat at Snooks
This historic sweet spot in Folsom’s Historic District serves handmade candies and old-fashioned treats that never go out of style. Founded in 1966, Snooks is a Folsom tradition.

5. Cool Culture
Want a break from the sun? Visit the Harris Center for the Arts or the Folsom History Museum for an inspiring, air-conditioned afternoon. Educational, entertaining, and refreshingly cool.

Let us know your favorite ways to beat the summer heat in your city in the comments below. We’d love to know your secrets.

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A new partnership

A New Partnership: Margaret and Katie

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A New Partnership: Margaret Melville and Katie Kreps Team Up at The Melville Group

Margaret and Katie, a new partnership, holding a Melville Group Real estate sign in a beautiful kitchen

We are thrilled to announce a new partnership! At The Melville Group, we believe that real estate is about more than transactions—it’s about trust, relationships, and forward-thinking guidance. That’s why we’re excited to share some exciting news: Margaret Melville is officially partnering with fellow agent Katie Kreps, bringing together two outstanding professionals with one shared mission—to serve clients with care, integrity, and exceptional results.

Why This Partnership Matters

Margaret is known for her experience, local expertise, and personalized approach. Katie brings fresh perspective, modern insight, and a deep dedication to client service. Together, they’re a dynamic team that blends seasoned leadership with a next-generation mindset.

You’ll benefit from the combined energy, insight, and resources whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or looking to sell a beloved home. This a partnership that truly understands your goals—and works tirelessly to exceed them.

What Clients Can Expect

  • Expanded support: With two strong voices at the table, clients receive broader availability and more tailored service.
  • Collaborative strategy: Katie and Margaret bring complementary strengths and styles, ensuring every client benefits from this well-rounded, strategic partnership.
  • Continued excellence: The values that define The Melville Group—professionalism, community, and trusted guidance—remain at the heart of everything we do.

Looking Ahead

This partnership reflects our belief in building for the future, staying responsive to our clients’ evolving needs, and continuing to grow as a team. As we move forward together, we’re committed to maintaining the high level of service you expect—while bringing new ideas and expanded energy into everything we do.

We’re excited for what’s ahead—and we invite you to connect with us, follow along, and let us know how we can help with your next real estate chapter.

Whether buying, selling or investing, we want to be you go-to partnership!

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Aerial view of the equestrian property

1508 Lomita Way: A Rare Equestrian Retreat

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1508 Lomita Way, El Dorado Hills: A Rare Equestrian Retreat

1508 Lomita Way, El Dorado Hills 3 Bed | 3 Bath |2550 SF | 12 Acres $1,890,000

Discover the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of at 1508 Lomita Way, El Dorado Hills, an extraordinary 12-acre equestrian estate, where timeless charm and modern comfort blend seamlessly.

1508 Lomita Way: exterior view of farmhouse

1508 Lomita Way, El Dorado Hills: A Horse Enthusiast’s Paradise

Designed with equestrians in mind, this estate features five 2-stall barns and three 1-stall barns, each complete with tack rooms and water lines, thoughtfully situated throughout the property to create separate shaded pastures. Whether you’re training, retiring horses, or simply living with your beloved companions, the amenities here are unparalleled.

Enjoy riding in the lighted arena, refining your skills in the round pen, or exploring onsite trails that lead directly to the Folsom Lake trail system. While commercial boarding is no longer permitted, the possibilities for private use are endless—ideal for training, multi-horse ownership, or personal equestrian retreats.

A Modern Farmhouse with Breathtaking Views

At the heart of the estate lies a newly constructed 2,550 sq. ft. custom farmhouse, designed for comfort, style, and connection to the outdoors. Walls of windows flood the home with natural light and frame panoramic views of rolling hills and neighboring estates, bringing tranquility to your everyday living.

Every detail has been thoughtfully curated, from the open-concept living spaces to the seamless integration of energy efficiency, thanks to a 35-panel owned solar system. This system, housed in a separate elevated structure, not only powers the home but also provides shaded parking for your equipment and future needs.

Outdoor Living, Reimagined

After a day spent riding, unwind in the saltwater pool, complete with an automatic cover for year-round enjoyment. Or relax under the stars in this beautifully landscaped setting, enhanced by zone irrigation for easy maintenance.

Additional Living Space

A charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath guest cottage offers the perfect space for a caretaker, extended family, or visiting guests—giving you flexibility and privacy in equal measure.

Prime Location with a Private Feel

Though this estate feels like a secluded countryside retreat, it’s conveniently located just 5 minutes from Green Valley Shopping Center, giving you the best of both worlds—peaceful living with easy access to amenities.

1508 Lomita Way, El Dorado Hills: The Opportunity of a Lifetime

1508 Lomita Way, El Dorado Hills is more than a property—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you envision a personal equestrian haven, a family retreat, or simply a place where nature and luxury coexist, this estate delivers.

Contact us today to experience the magic of this one-of-a-kind equestrian estate—where every ride leads home.

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