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.
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.
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!).
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. 🏡
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.
A New Partnership: Margaret Melville and Katie Kreps Team Up at The Melville Group
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!
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, 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.
Thinking of selling your home this year? Wondering about the best time to sell? Here’s a little insider tip: April 13–19 may be the best week of the year to list your house, according to a recent Realtor.com study. That’s not just hype—this week consistently delivers more buyers, quicker sales, and often, higher offers.
Why does this week win the real estate jackpot? Why do insiders consider this the best time to sell.
Buyer Buzz: Spring buyers are out in full force.
Spring is in full bloom, and so is the real estate market. Buyers are buzzing with enthusiasm, as the season brings renewed energy and excitement to home hunting. With warmer weather and longer days, prospective homeowners are eager to make their move.
Motivated buyers in the spring market are often more decisive. Their eagerness to secure their dream home means that when the right property comes along, negotiations can be swift and efficient. This speedy process benefits both buyers and sellers—sellers enjoy quicker turnovers, while buyers feel the thrill of sealing the deal.
Top Dollar Potential: Homes listed this week sell for nearly $4,800 more, on average!
Homes listed this week have been selling for nearly $4,800 more on average, highlighting a clear demand that benefits property sellers. Sellers can feel confident that their properties are attracting serious attention, while buyers continue to enjoy the vibrant, dynamic market that only grows more enticing with every passing day.
It’s Time to Get Started!
But here’s the catch: if you want to be listed in April (or May!), it’s go time. No major renos—just focus on small, high-impact improvements. Clean up, declutter, maybe add a few fresh touches (hello, curb appeal!). We can help you decide what’s worth doing—and what’s not.
Not quite ready? That’s okay!
The continuing Spring season is still in your favor. The weather is gorgeous and the hills are abundant with grasses and wildflowers. If you’re looking to maximize value with minimal stress, this may be your golden opportunity.
Karen Lienert: Decades of Experience, Deep Market Knowledge
With over 30 years in real estate, Karen Lienert combines professionalism, integrity, and a genuine passion for helping others. As a Sacramento native, her understanding of the local market is unmatched, having lived and worked in Folsom and El Dorado Hills for many years.
A Strong Foundation in Real Estate
Karen’s real estate career began in 1993 after earning her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. Her diverse background—ranging from property appraisals to lease negotiations and land use projects—gives her clients a strategic advantage, ensuring expert guidance through every step of buying or selling a home.
A Relationship-Driven Approach
Karen’s success is built on trust, dedication, and relationships. She takes the time to deeply understand her clients’ needs, guiding them with care through one of life’s most important financial decisions.
A Heart for Community
Beyond real estate, Karen is passionate about giving back. She has volunteered with CASA of El Dorado County, supported 100 Women Who Care, and participated in the National Charity League alongside her daughters, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Life Beyond Real Estate
When she’s not working with clients, Karen enjoys spending time with her family of six, traveling, and taking in the beauty of Lake Tahoe with boating and water sports.
As a dedicated professional and a valued new member of The Melville Group, Karen brings expertise, heart, and an unwavering commitment to every client she serves.
