Planning to Sell in 2025? Start Here.

Planning to Sell in 2025? Start Prepping Now

If you’re planning to sell in 2025, now is the time to start planning. Preparing your home early can help ensure an easier process this Spring.

Let’s partner together! Together we can analyze listing insights regarding the best updates for your area. But, here’s a general guide to getting started.

Why Start Preparing Now?

To sell quickly and for the best price, your home should look its absolute best. Small repairs and strategic updates can increase its appeal and value. According to Realtor.com, many sellers find it takes longer than expected to get their homes ready, so it’s wise to begin now. Tackling your to-do list over the next few months will give you time to make thoughtful, impactful changes without the last-minute stress.

Modernize Key Areas and Improve Indoor-Outdoor Flow

In the Sacramento area, where buyers love indoor-outdoor living, strategic updates can make your home especially appealing. Here’s how to get started:

Interior & Exterior Paint: Sacramento homes benefit greatly from fresh paint inside and out. With 46% of sellers painting interiors and 28% updating exteriors, you’ll be in good company. Choose neutral colors for a clean, modern look.

Kitchen and Bathroom Improvements: Updated kitchens and bathrooms are high on Sacramento buyers’ wish lists. With 42% and 38% of sellers investing in bathroom and kitchen upgrades, a small investment in new fixtures, countertops, or cabinet finishes can make a lasting impression.

Landscaping & Flooring: Landscaping and flooring upgrades are highly impactful in Sacramento, where buyers value eco-friendly outdoor spaces and durable indoor flooring. Lush landscaping with drought-tolerant plants adds curb appeal, and LVP or hardwood floors are great options to create a seamless, polished look.

The Importance of Working with a Local Expert

While these improvements offer general guidance, only a neighborhood expert can tell you what upgrades have the best return in your area. Call us today for a free home consultation. We would be happy to share our expertise to get your home sold.

Bottom Line

Planning to Sell your in 2025? Get started now! By planning ahead and consulting with a neighborhood expert, you’ll be ready to list when the spring market heats up. Plus, you’ll ensure that your home shines in all the right ways, making a memorable impression on potential buyers.

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Folsom CA: The Suburb for Investment

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Folsom: Not a Secret Anymore!

Thinking about investing in California real estate? Folsom is a suburb that should be on your radar. Located in the Sacramento area, this dynamic community has recently been recognized by GoBankingRates. It’s one of the top four California suburbs primed for property investment in the next five years. If you’re searching for a smart investment with growth potential, Folsom stands out for all the right reasons.

Why Folsom?

What makes Folsom special? According to real estate experts, the suburb’s excellent schools, abundant green spaces, and safe neighborhoods make it a magnet for families and professionals alike. With a crime rate lower than the national average and a lower cost of living compared to major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, it offers an appealing balance of affordability and quality of life.

GoBankingRates highlights another key factor: Folsom’s cost of living is lower than 308 out of 449 cities in California. This affordability, combined with the stability of home prices in the Sacramento area, creates a prime opportunity for those looking to make a long-term real estate investment.

While Southern California suburbs like Irvine, Temecula, and Poway also made the list, Folsom shines in Northern California as a suburb on the rise. For those who value a great community atmosphere, outdoor recreation, and long-term growth potential, it’s a top contender.

Ready to Act?

If you’re considering buying in Folsom or the greater Sacramento region, now is the perfect time to explore your options. With promising home appreciation rates and an unmatched lifestyle, Folsom is more than just a great place to live—it’s a smart investment in your future.

Reach out to Margaret Melville, your trusted real estate expert, to learn more about current opportunities and start planning your next move. The Melville Group has the experience you need for all of your real estate needs.

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4301 N Canyon Rd: Dream Oasis with 2 Homes

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Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada Foothills near Apple Hill, you’ll find 4301 N Canyon Rd, Camino. This extraordinary property offers the perfect blend of luxury, space, and endless possibilities.

Situated on 6.4 acres of serene landscape, this home is your personal retreat while being surrounded by the year-round attractions of Apple Hill and Camino—just 1 hour from Lake Tahoe!

Main Residence – Spacious, Stylish, and Welcoming

With 3,892 sqft of living space, this beautiful home offers:

3 bedrooms + 2 bonus rooms (potential bedrooms), giving you room to grow and entertain.
3.5 bathrooms for added convenience and comfort.
A sleek, contemporary kitchen that flows into the open-concept great room, ideal for gatherings.
The main floor primary bedroom with an ensuite bath, perfect for easy living.
Soaring high ceilings that create a grand, airy feel throughout.

Built in 2003, this home has been lovingly maintained and includes:

A new water heater to ensure your comfort.
Fresh exterior paint that adds a crisp, modern look to the home.
A serviced HVAC system, keeping things cool in the summer and cozy in the winter.

Bonus Cottage – Rental Income or Guest Haven

In addition to the main house, you’ll find an approximate 1,000 sqft cottage featuring:

3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
Perfect as a rental property, guest house, or even a multi-generational living space. The opportunities are endless!

Location, Location, Location

Set in the highly desirable Apple Hill/Camino area, 4301 N Canyon Rd offers:

Easy access to wineries, orchards, and hiking trails for those who love the outdoors.
Year-round attractions ranging from fall festivals to winter wonderland activities, right at your doorstep.
The perfect balance of peaceful country living while still being a short drive to local amenities—and, of course, Lake Tahoe just an hour away!

Lake Tahoe in the summer — Beautiful Lake Tahoe

This property is more than just a home; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of wide-open spaces, earning rental income, or simply want a peaceful escape, this versatile oasis has it all.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make 4301 N Canyon Rd your own!

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3905 Hills Ct: Charming Townhome in El Dorado Hills

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Charming Townhome Living in El Dorado Hills: 3905 Hills Ct

Welcome to 3905 Hills Ct, a delightful 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome offering comfort and style in the heart of El Dorado Hills. With 1,122 square feet of well-designed living space, this home is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with modern updates and thoughtful accessibility.

Step Inside

As you step inside 3905 Hills Ct, you’re greeted by a spacious open floor plan that seamlessly connects the updated kitchen to the great room. The kitchen features sleek white quartz countertops, offering both elegance and practicality. Large picture windows flood the space with natural light, creating an airy atmosphere complemented by beautiful laminate flooring throughout.

The primary suite is a true highlight, offering two generous closets and a convenient stall shower. The entire home has been thoughtfully designed to be barrier-free and wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of living for everyone.

Outdoor Living

Step outside into the private, fenced backyard—an oasis of tranquility perfect for relaxing or entertaining. With garden beds ready for your favorite plants and a cozy patio for outdoor dining, this space invites you to enjoy El Dorado Hills’ beautiful weather year-round.

Location

Located near Hwy 50, this townhome provides easy access to local restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and everything El Dorado Hills has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizing, or looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle, 3905 Hills Ct is ready to welcome you home.

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HomeBuyers: It May Be the Perfect Time to Buy!

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Folsom & Sacramento HomeBuyers: It May Be the Perfect Time to Buy!

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, it may be the right moment to jump into the Folsom/Sacramento housing market. A shift is underway, and mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level in 19 months, offering homebuyers an incredible opportunity to make their move.

The Best Time to Buy a Home Is Right Around the Corner

Experts at Realtor.com have identified the week of Sept. 29–Oct. 5 as the best time to buy a home in 2024. During this week, the market typically offers the perfect balance of high inventory, lower prices, and reduced competition from other homebuyers. This may be your sweet spot for getting a great deal on a home.

Mortgage Rates Hit a 19-Month Low

Recent drops in mortgage rates are making homes more affordable than they’ve been in nearly two years. Rates falling below 6.5% made August the most affordable month for housing since February.

Lower rates boost your purchasing power, allowing you to get more home for your money or lower your monthly payments.

More Homes on the Market Means More Choices for Buyers

With a 35% increase nationally in homes for sale compared to last year, you’ll have more options than ever before. Ralph McLaughlin at Realtor.com explains:

“The number of homes actively for sale continues to be elevated compared with last year and now sits at the highest since May 2020.”

This gives homebuyers more negotiating power, as sellers are motivated to move their properties in a slower market.

Ready to Make a Move? Let’s Get Started

With rates low and more homes on the market, this is the ideal time to make your move in Folsom. Let’s connect today and get started on finding your perfect home! Call Margaret today.

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Coming Soon in Camino: Your Dream Oasis

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Coming Soon in Camino!

Coming Soon in Camino, the Melville Group welcomes you to your serene escape nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Foothills, where modern luxury meets the natural beauty of nearby Apple Hill!

This sprawling 6.4-acre estate offers not only space and privacy but also a lifestyle of year-round adventure. With 3,892 sq. ft. of living space, this home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bonus rooms that can be used as additional bedrooms, and 3.5 baths. It’s the ideal retreat for families or those who love to entertain.

Luxury Living Meets Timeless Charm

Built in 2003, this home has been meticulously maintained and updated. With soaring high ceilings, an open-concept great room, and a sleek, contemporary kitchen, every inch of this property exudes comfort and sophistication. The main floor primary bedroom offers convenience and tranquility, while the additional rooms provide endless possibilities. Notable upgrades include a brand-new water heater, newer exterior paint, and a well-maintained HVAC system, ensuring your comfort year-round.

Bonus Cottage for Guests or Income

In addition to the main home, this property features a charming 1,000 sq. ft. cottage with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Perfect for hosting guests or generating rental income, this cottage adds value and versatility.

Prime Location: Apple Hill Living at Its Finest

Located in the heart of Camino, CA, this home is just minutes away from the famous Apple Hill. This year-round destination known for its 50+ farms, ranches, wineries, and tree farms. During the fall, Apple Hill becomes a bustling hub of apple picking, pumpkin patches, and fresh cider. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Seasonal attractions like berry and lavender farms open in the spring and summer, and wineries welcome guests year-round. Christmas tree farms offer the perfect winter holiday experience, typically opening around Thanksgiving. Living here means you’ll always be close to the best of Northern California’s agricultural charm and outdoor adventures!

Coming Soon in Camino: Your Slice of Paradise Awaits

Whether you’re looking for a family home, a private retreat, or an income-generating property, this versatile oasis in Camino is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. With proximity to Lake Tahoe, only an hour away, and the vibrant attractions of Apple Hill right at your doorstep, this is truly a dream home for those seeking the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and charm.

Contact Margaret to learn more about this opportunity to experience luxury and adventure in Camino!

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Elections and the Housing Market

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Insights from the Melville Group, Your Trusted Folsom Real Estate Advisors

With election season upon us, it’s natural to wonder how political events might influence the housing market, especially if you’re planning to buy or sell a home. While the impact of elections and the housing market is typically subtle, understanding the trends can give you an edge in making informed decisions. Here’s what to expect during an election year:

The November Pause

It’s not unusual for home sales to dip slightly in November during election years. This temporary slowdown often happens as buyers and sellers hold off on making big decisions amid political uncertainty. The good news? This pause is usually short-lived. Once the election results are in and the initial uncertainty clears, market activity tends to rebound by December.

Post-Election Price Boost

After the dust settles, there’s often a noticeable uptick in home prices the following year. This trend suggests that market confidence is restored post-election, making it an advantageous time for homeowners looking to sell. If you’re considering putting your home on the market, this could be the perfect moment to capitalize on rising values.

Mortgage Rates May Ease

One of the more favorable trends for buyers is that mortgage rates often decline from July through November during election years. This drop can make home buying more affordable, presenting a prime opportunity to lock in a lower interest rate and potentially save thousands over the life of your mortgage.

The Big Picture

While elections may introduce minor fluctuations, the overall impact of elections on the housing market is typically minimal and short-term. The market remains robust, offering plenty of opportunities for buyers and sellers alike, especially in thriving areas like Folsom.

Elections and the Housing Market: The Takeaway

Whether you’re looking to take advantage of current market conditions or simply need expert advice, the Melville Group is here to help. Reach out to us today and let us guide you through your next real estate move with confidence.

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Women’s Council of Realtors: Shine Your Light

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Women’s Council of Realtors

The Melville Group is thrilled to announce that Margaret and Katie have joined the Women’s Council of Realtors, Gold Country Council!

Shine Your Light

The council’s theme for this year is all about encouraging the need to “Shine Your Light.” It’s a theme that resonates deeply with the council’s mission to ensure every voice in the network is not just heard but celebrated. The Council believes in creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and included.

Margaret’s own mantra perfectly encapsulates the mission: “I’m a real estate Broker, Leader, and Influencer for good. I support real estate agents and high-achieving women in building a life and business they love…through real estate.”

Collaboration and Growth

In the Council, members are not just aiming to meet industry standards; they are setting new benchmarks for excellence in real estate. This year, the focus is on being inclusive, fostering collaboration, and helping each other become the best Realtors possible.

The Women’s Council of Realtors is more than just a professional organization; it’s a growth laboratory for leaders in the industry. They provide a safe space for members to learn transferable skills for their businesses and develop themselves as leaders in their communities. As the premier leadership organization for REALTORS®, the Women’s Council of Realtors is known throughout the industry as the place to find the best and the brightest.

Ready to Learn More?

Learn more about the Women’s Council of Realtors here, and check out Margaret and Katie’s profiles to learn more about them.

The Takeaway

Margaret and Katie are excited to achieve new heights in their careers and communities. They will let their lights shine and make 2024 a year of growth, inclusion, and excellence!

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A Marketing Strategy: 3843 Park Drive

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Our recent success with the sale of 3843 Park Drive in El Dorado Hills is a great example of a successful marketing strategy. We received two offers in just eight days and the home is now pending! Let’s take a look at some of the tactics we use to market a home effectively to attract serious buyers.

Let’s Take a Look at Our Marketing Strategy

Utilizing Social Media

Social media platforms are invaluable tools for reaching potential buyers. By targeting specific demographics, we can ensure your listing reaches those most likely to be interested. We use Facebook and Instagram to create engaging posts, and stories to create buzz around your property. We also post blogs on LinkedIn and Google to give your listing maximum exposure.

Creating an SEO-Optimized Website

An optimized website is crucial for attracting organic traffic. We highlight your listing with a blog including comprehensive descriptions, and professional photographs. Our marketing strategy includes relevant keywords such as “El Dorado Home for Sale” to improve your search engine rankings.

High-Quality Visuals

We invest in professional photography and videography to create an appealing visual presentation. Staging your home when applicable and using drone footage can provide a comprehensive view, making a strong first impression on potential buyers.

Database Engagement

A well-maintained database is a powerful asset. We share your listing with former clients and fellow agents to generate immediate interest. This approach can lead to multiple offers and a quicker sale.

Collaborating with Local Agents

We engage local agents who have a proven track record in the area. Their market knowledge and network of potential buyers can significantly enhance your marketing efforts. By following these strategies, we can effectively market your home and achieve a successful sale in today’s competitive market. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you.

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600 Prospect Ave in Oakland: Discover the Charm

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600 Prospect Ave: Stunning Mediterranean Revival

600 Prospect Ave, exterior — 600 Prospect Ave, Oakland: Grand and Enchanting

Welcome to 600 Prospect Ave, a stunning Mediterranean Revival masterpiece listed by Margaret Melville of the Melville Group. This iconic home, built in 1924, is on the market for the first time in 50 years, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of Oakland’s rich history. Located within walking distance Lake Merritt, this grand residence beautifully combines historic charm with modern potential.

600 Prospect Ave: Historic Elegance and Modern Potential

Step inside and be captivated by the original architectural details that adorn this magnificent home. The hardwood floors and oversized arched windows flood the interior with natural light, offering AMAZING VIEWS at every turn. The main floor features generously sized rooms and a charming fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. While the kitchen and bathrooms await your personal touch to bring them up to modern standards, the potential to transform these spaces is endless.

Flexible Living Spaces

The first floor includes flexible space with outside access, featuring one bedroom, a full bath, and a laundry room. This area has great potential to be converted into an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), subject to city approval. Additionally, the flat space over the two-car garage offers potential for future development, providing even more possibilities.

Freshly Painted and Ready for Your Vision

Both the interior and exterior have been freshly painted, creating a clean canvas for your vision. The beautiful garden, adorned with mature fruit trees, provides a tranquil retreat and enhances the home’s charm.

A Rare Opportunity in a Desirable Neighborhood

Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history in one of Oakland’s most desirable neighborhoods. Embrace the charm of this Mediterranean Revival home, envision the updates that will make it uniquely yours, and create lasting memories in this iconic residence.

Contact Us

Ready to explore 600 Prospect Ave and make this historic gem your own? Contact Margaret Melville of the Melville Group today to schedule a private showing. Embrace the charm and imagine the possibilities.

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