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May 29, 2020
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MAY 29, 2020
If you have ever considered a reverse mortgage, Today is the day!
A
reverse mortgage was originally designed for the purpose of giving seniors financial security during times of uncertainty. Well, if we look in the dictionary, I think these crazy times would be the definition of uncertainty. Many seniors have thought about a reverse mortgage at some point. They have wondered if it would work for them, would they qualify, what would it mean to their heirs. These are questions I hear every day from people who decide, for one reason or another, to pick up the phone and call me. These uncertain times have inspired many people to try to find a safety net, especially those who are currently enjoying retirement. There is no going back to work when this is all over. This is it. When your retirement assets are getting beat up by the markets, it can feel very scary. And what about those who were nearing the end of their working career but just not quite ready to retire. Now they are home, hoping that their jobs will exist when all this ends. Will they be welcomed back to work, will there be a job waiting for them? Very daunting to say the least. With Wells Fargo, Chase, and many small banks and Credit Unions no longer offering Home Equity Lines of Credit, the proverbial safety net seems a bit out of reach. If you already have a HELOC, it can even be reduced, frozen, or even closed without notice. A reverse mortgage can offer a line of credit depending on your current equity position. The difference between the reverse mortgage line of credit vs. the home equity line of credit, is that the FHA reverse mortgage LOC can not be frozen, or reduced, and can not be closed. This is the epitome of financial security. The FHA reverse mortgage line of credit will be there for you, no matter what the economic conditions, no matter your future equity position, no matter value of your home. You are responsible for paying your property taxes, your homeowners’ insurance, living in the home, maintaining the home, and paying the HOA dues, if any. As long as you do those five things, and have not filed for bankruptcy, then no one can close or freeze or reduce your line of credit. As long as we are on that topic, I had a client say to me the other day that someone told her after a certain amount of time “they” make you sell your house and move into a nursing home. I asked where she had heard that and she said, from a friend. I told her exactly what I said above, as long as you do those five things no one can ever, ever, ever make you move from your home. Another friend of hers was sitting with us and she said to my client “see I told you that you needed to hear for yourself from someone who knows”. It amazes me how many wild stories people hear about how reverse mortgages work. The truth is that reverse mortgages were designed to allow seniors to stay in their homes, while still accessing some of the equity. It is a loan against your home, just like the loan you have right now. The difference is that you don’t have to make a payment to the bank, and, of course, how you pay it back is different. There are many consumer protections built into the
Beth Miller-Rowe has been in the mortgage industry for 36 years specializing in reverse mortgages for the past 10 years. Beth has degrees in economics and business administration. program because we are working with a protected class, and it is an FHA insured program. HUD has designed the program to make sure, as long as you do your part, the five things I mentioned, you are protected. You cannot be “kicked out of your home”. You cannot “outlive” your reverse mortgage. You will have a roof over your head until you decide to sell, or you pass away. Even though it is not required, some people do choose to make payments on their reverse mortgage, but honestly most do not. Those who choose to do so are generally still working, or perhaps they know they are going to come into money at some point in the future and they want to pay down the reverse mortgage when that happens. That is totally okay. What it does is to reduce the loan balance and increase the available line of credit. It preserves equity and allows for a larger safety net. Win Win. The key to today’s reverse mortgage is the flexibility it provides. You can pay any amount you want, whenever you want, or not make payments at all. With the new math implemented by HUD in 2017, you can utilize a reverse mortgage during your retirement years, and very likely have a nice legacy to leave to your heirs, whether you choose to make payments or not. As for how you pay the loan back in the end, it is just like any other loan except you do not have to pay it back until you leave your home. That might mean that you decide to sell your home and move to Florida. That is okay. You call your Realtor, open escrow, sell your home, and the escrow officer pays us off, just like any other loan that you may have against your home and the remaining proceeds go to you. Or you may want to stay in your home until you pass away. That is okay too. When you pass away your home goes to your heirs and they have the option to sell it or to refinance it. If your heirs are “of age” at the time you pass, they may even qualify for their own reverse mortgage and use that to pay off your reverse mortgage. The reality is that a reverse mortgage is so very much like any mortgage. If you have a traditional/forward mortgage you have to pay your property taxes and insurance. If you do not pay for your insurance, they will force place insurance which is horrendously expensive. If
you do not pay your taxes, they will add them to your monthly payment so your monthly payment goes up. The bottom line is, you have to pay your property taxes and insurance no matter what kind of loan you have against your property. Let’s face it, this crazy Covid 19 thing has wreaked havoc on our finances, and for our generation this is the second, or for some, the third, major shock to our finances. People are still recovering from the 2008 – 2012 debacle, and now this. Everything about the reverse mortgage program of today is built to protect you and provide you with financial security. Depending on your equity position, we may be able to pay off your current mortgage, and/or provide you with monthly income or a line of credit. Any of those scenarios puts you in a better cash flow position than you are in today. Take a few minutes today and find out about “today’s reverse mortgage”. It is vastly different than the reverse mortgage of yesteryear. During this crazy time we are living in, we are providing phone appointments with either myself, or my right hand, Cheryl James. Either of us can go over your options, review your goals, and help you to decide if a reverse mortgage can help you to achieve the financial security, we are all looking for right now. The key is, learn for yourself, do your own research, hear it from a reverse mortgage specialist, not a friend of a friend. Make an educated decision about your financial future. Call me today. I look forward to talking to you. Take care, be safe, and stay well. – Advertorial
Let’s take a look and see if we can Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True.
Beth Miller-Rowe NMLS: 294774
Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist
The Reverse Mortgage Group • A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corp.
Office: 925-969-0380 Cell: 925-381-8264 Beth@YourReverse.com
3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True! A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850
DRE: 00950759/01215943 • NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act
*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out. Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.
HOME & GARDEN
MAY 29, 2020
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Spring gardening looks different this season We are seeing a lot of vegetable gardens, they are number one right now.
DAWNMARIE FEHR
S
heltering-in-place has afforded many East County residents the time to focus on their favorite
– Luis Perez, Perez Nursery and Landscaping
hobbies, and gardening’s popularity is in full bloom. Local nurseries have seen an increase in business that cannot be explained by spring fever alone and one of the trends is edible gardens. “We are seeing a lot of vegetable gardens, they are number one right now,” said Luis Perez, president of Perez Nursery and Landscaping in Brentwood. “Followed by succulents, and third, your typical flowering garden.” Perez theorized the COVID-19 pandemic and all its turmoil has ushered in a new interest in growing produce at home. He said home gardens are a great project worthy of the attention they are getting. He also noted that many customers are planting their vegetables in container gardens and raised garden beds. “That way, they can control them and keep animals out,” Perez said. “For the succulents and flowers, we are seeing those go in the ground.” Perez mentioned there is a market
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Gardening trends this year are including many first-time vegetable growers, thanks in part to the COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders. for California native plants, which can withstand the area’s long, dry summers, and which tend to be especially popular in dryer, drought years. “When the drought was more talked about, that became more of a thing,” he said. “This year, people are still into drought tolerant, but not as much.” Nino Pompei, owner of Pompei Nursery in Oakley agreed, adding that
native plants have dropped in popularity this year, although his nursery still has a steady demand for them. His top sellers this spring: citrus trees. “We have seen people putting in a lot of citrus – lemons, limes, grapefruits – even more than fruit trees, which is different,” Pompei said. “Also a lot of fruit trees, and a lot of edible gardens, more than any previous year.”
Pompei said his customers are putting their vegetables in raised garden beds, maximizing yard space and finding calm in the pandemic’s storm by producing food for themselves. “There’s this crazy possibility that something may not be available in the food supply chain,” Pompei said. “People want to be able to produce these fruits and vegetables in their own back yards.” Pompei said his nursery leans heavily on organics, with a full line of organic based nutrients, fertilizers and soils. Perez Nursery and Landscaping is located at 2601 Walnut Blvd. in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-516-1052 or visit www.pereznursery.com. Pompei Nursery is located at 4701 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, call 925-625-7330 or visit www.pompeinursery.com.
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HOME & GARDEN
MAY 29, 2020
Housing industry is changing, adjusting A LY B R O W N
O
n the state’s journey toward reopening from shelteringin-place, those in the real
estate industry report COVID-19 has had a definitive impact on consumer confidence, but the unprecedented changes could have lasting benefits. In a report published by National Association of Realtors (NAR), NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun noted the current conditions are naturally bringing an abundance of caution among buyers and sellers, but he also gave a nod to what the market could look like once the economy reopens. “With fewer listings in what’s already a housing shortage environment, home prices are likely to hold steady,” Yun said. “The temporary softening of the real estate market will likely be followed by a strong rebound once the economic ‘quarantine’ is lifted, and it’s critical that supply is sufficient to meet pent-up demand.” East County’s James Carey — who owns Carey Bros. Remodeling with his brother, Morris — said their first concern when health orders from the county and state first took effect was for the health of
Press photo
This group of billboards along Walnut Avenue in Brentwood highlights the continued growth of new homes in East County.
their crews and clients. “We had to step down operations, close down some jobs,” Carey said, while noting they did not completely shut down. “The county allowed us to continue on a couple of kitchen projects we had because they were deemed essential.” The crew also had some home additions in the works that needed completion in order to limit exposure to the homeowners, and
they were granted permission to complete those in the early stages. But from a business standpoint, Carey said the phones stopped ringing and the team pressed forward with a level of financial uncertainty. But it’s not all gloom and doom, he said. “People are bouncing back; people need home improvements,” he said. “They still need aging-in-place upgrades; they still need comfort, convenience and safety upgrades;
ongoing maintenance …” Carey reported one positive change that stemmed from COVID-19 to be the call for more home office remodels. “This whole experience has created demand to reconfigure space or to add on for home offices,” he said. “What many people have learned is that they can work from home and harness technology to do what they need to do without having to go into the office every day. We see that as very, very positive — it gets people off the road and allows them to spend more time with family instead of behind the wheel in bumper-to-bumper traffic.” The trend for home office remodels includes converted bedrooms with spacesaving wall beds, enhanced window sizes for more natural light or even converting windows into sliding glass doors. “The sliding doors make it easy to get out from the home office without walking through the rest of the house, which can interrupt your workday and train of thought,” Carey explained. Carey reported the second benefit of COVID-19 to be the realization that, even in the remodeling industry, some work can be conducted virtually. Instead of hopping on the freeway to meet with potential clients for home remodeling consultations, the team utilizes technology to offer virtual consultations — something that will serve as a benefit long after the shelter-in-place order lifts.
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HOME & GARDEN
MAY 29, 2020
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Continuing conservation well into summer … we just ask the residents to do their part and monitor themselves, and they have been doing a good job.
DAWNMARIE FEHR
C
alifornia’s capricious rainy season has pretty much left us following a dry winter,
and local water districts are working to spread the word about conservation and asking residents to continue in
– Aaron Goldsworthy,
their water-saving efforts. With temperatures rising, there are easy steps people can take to use less water and conserve for the dry days ahead. In Discovery Bay, water and wastewater manager Aaron Goldsworthy said the town is asking its residents to maintain a 15-20% reduction from 2013 usage. “It’s voluntary conservation, and we just ask the residents to do their part and monitor themselves, and they have been doing a good job,” Goldsworthy said. He suggested watering lawns in the early morning or late evening, allowing water to sink in before it evaporates in the sun. He also said now is a good time to check watering times and adjust as necessary, and check irrigation systems for leaks. Another tool for residents is the EyeOnWater dashboard available on the town’s website, allowing residents to track
Discovery Bay water and wastewater manager
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
their usage and check for leaks. The Diablo Water District is also asking customers to check their irrigation systems by watching the systems run. “50-75% of water use is happening through outdoor irrigation and that’s where customers can get the biggest bang for their buck by reducing use,” said Diablo Water District general manager Dan Muelrath. “So we recommend our customers run the irrigation system and watch it while it’s running.”
He further noted yards requiring 30 minutes of watering would benefit from three 10-minute sessions, spaced an hour or more apart. This gives the water the opportunity to be fully absorbed, preventing run off and evaporation. Muelrath also had some tips for eliminating water waste indoors and suggested installing low flow toilets, faucets and showerheads to conserve water. He said newer, more efficient aerators can make less water feel just the same as a normal
flow showerhead. Muelrath said his district has seen a slightly higher demand than normal since the shelter-in-place orders were issued, but not significantly more. He added his district is in good shape in terms of overall water supply, and a dry year doesn’t cause concern. For more information on EyeOnWater, call 925-634-1131 or visit www.tobd. ca.gov. For more information on Diablo Water District, or tips to conserve water, call 925-625-3798, visit http://diablowater.org, or check out the district’s Facebook page.
Abram Frenes NMLS #241149 | 925.628.0960 Abram Frenes NMLS #241149 | 925.628.0960 Ben Teran NMLS #1402723 925.209.6839 Brenda |Frazier NMLS #825688 | 510.910.2647 Brenda Frazier NMLS #825688 | 510.910.2647 Chris Dyer
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HOME & GARDEN
MAY 29, 2020
Garden tools for beginners
T
he right tool for the job is essential to working safely and efficiently.
This is as true in the workplace as it is in the garden. Novice gardeners may not know where to begin in regard to which tools they need. The following are eight items that can serve as a solid foundation for beginning gardeners. 1. Gloves: Your hands will be working hard, so it pays to protect them from calluses, blisters, splinters, insects and dirt. Look for water-resistant gloves that are also breathable. 2. Hand pruners: Hand pruners are essential for cutting branches, cleaning up shrubs, dead-heading flowers and various other tasks. Choose ergonomic, no-slip handles that will make work easier. Rustresistant, nonstick blades also are handy. 3. Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow can transport gear to garden beds or tote dirt, leaves, rocks and other materials around the landscape. A good wheelbarrow is strong but light enough to maneuver when full. 4. Loppers: Long-handled loppers will fit the bill for thick branches. The long handles provide leverage to cut through branches an inch or more in diameter. 5. Hand trowel: A hand trowel is a handy tool that lets you dig holes or unearth
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
The right tool for the job is essential to working safely and efficiently.
weeds. While shopping for a trowel, consider getting a hand-held garden fork, which can aerate soil and cut through roots. 6. Hose/watering can: Keeping gardens hydrated is part of ensuring their health. That makes a hose and a watering can two invaluable tools to have around. Invest in a lightweight, expandable hose if storage space is at a premium. An adjustable nozzle will enable you to customize the water flow as needed. A watering can is an easy way to tote water to hard-to-reach pots and containers. see Tools page 7B
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All loans are subject to credit approval and acceptable collateral. Additional terms and conditions apply. Programs, rates, terms and conditions may change without notice. All programs are not available in all states. Commerce Home Mortgage, LLC (“CHM”) is a state-licensed mortgage lender, NMLS ID #1839. To verify state licenses, visit www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Main office 16845 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92606. AZ: Arizona Mortgage Banker License #0925326; CA: Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act; GA: Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #48010. For other state licenses, visit us online at www.commercehomemortgage.com. CHM and its loan programs are not sponsored or endorsed by the U. S. Treasury Department. © 2019. Commerce Home Mortgage, LLC. All rights reserved.
MAY 29, 2020
HOME & GARDEN
What can and cannot be turned into compost
A
vid gardeners know that compost can add vital nutrients to soil used in gardens,
container plants and lawns. Compost is relatively easy to make, and there are scores of materials that can be put into compost. But it is just as essential to know which ingredients cannot be used in compost. Good for compost Most organic materials, or items that were once living, can be used in compost. Plantbased items used in cooking can be added to compost, such as potato peelings, carrot skins, banana peels, cocoa hulls, coffee grounds and filters, corn cobs, apple cores, egg shells, fruit peels, kelp and nut shells. Other items from around the house can be successfully added to compost, including unused kitty litter, hair, shredded newspapers and cardboard, leaves, flowers, paper, pine needles, ashes and sawdust. Stick to items that are not treated heavily with chemicals. NOT good for compost Inorganic and nonbiodegradable materials cannot go into compost. These are items like plastic, glass, aluminum foil and metal. Although a natural material, pressure-treated lumber is treated with preservatives and often pesticides that can be harmful if they leech into the garden. The small-gardening resource Balcony Garden Web indicates coated or glossy printed papers — such as those from catalogs, magazines, wrapping paper, marketing materials and business cards — should not be added to compost piles because of the chemicals and inks used in these pages. Planet Natural Research Center says to avoid pet droppings from dogs and cats. Animal products like bones, butter, milk, fish skins and meat may decompose and start to smell foul. Maggots, parasites, pathogens and other microorganisms can form in the compost. These materials also may attract flies and scavenger animals. Plus, they decompose very slowly. Any personal hygiene products should be avoided because they are tainted by human fluids and that can pose a health risk.
Tools
from page 6B
7. Garden kneeler: Gardeners often bend and kneel while working in the soil. That puts pressure on the back and knees. A comfortable garden kneeler with memory foam or one made from shock-absorbing material can reduce aches and pains. 8. Garden hoe: Garden hoes till soil, remove weeds and perform many other tasks. A garden hoe can be used along with a full-sized shovel, trowel and garden rake. This list is just the tip of the garden tool iceberg. Visit a garden center and speak with a professional about other tools that can be added to the mix. – Courtesy Metro Creative
While weeds are not harmful in compost piles, there is the risk that seeds can germinate and then infiltrate garden beds when the compost is used. The same can be said for tomato plants and some other hardy fruits and vegetables. Compost is a winner in the garden and around the landscape. Learning which ingredients can and can’t be added to compost piles is useful for any gardener. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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The look of home design post-pandemic DAWNMARIE FEHR
A
I think one thing we have discovered, if we don’t take anything else away from this, I think we can safely say that many of us realize that we can work from home.
s we all shelter in place, spending more time at home than normal, will what we
want in a home change? Some experts suggest it will. Soothing tones that reflect the colors of nature will likely be at the top of homeowners’ lists, along with a desire to fix any flaws that might have been overlooked in the past when not in such close quarters with them. One thing James Carey of Carey Bros. Remodeling sees in the future is the desire for a dedicated home office or workspace. “I think that if there is a change in home design, it’s going to be where people will utilize existing space, reconfiguring existing space in their home or adding onto their home to create a workspace at home,” Carey said. “I think one thing we have discovered, if we don’t take anything else away from this, I think we can safely say that many of us realize that we can work from home.” Carey noted he has already completed several home office projects since the shelter-in-place started, creating spaces for singles and couples to work. He said his company is able to create a workspace
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Experts suggest that one of the new trends to come out of the shelter-in-place restrictions will be the addition of working spaces or home offices. with places for computers, laptops and printers – homeowners just need to add the internet. Another trend Carey noted was the addition of accessory dwelling units. Legislation passed on Jan. 1 relaxed existing laws that prohibited attached and freestanding units on single home lots. He said the units can consist of a bedroom, living area and kitchen and the goal is to help relieve the housing crunch.
D O G O L W ASS CO T N E R B OWERS & WINDOW .
SHOP LOCAL!
– James Carey, Carey Bros. Remodeling
SH
S
“What this does is provide affordable housing and creates space for a loved one, aging parent or youngster who wants to go to school but not live in the primary residence,” Carey explained. “The biggest trend in 2020 is accessory dwelling units.” The final trend Carey discussed was creating or improving accessibility for adults who want to age in place. Many people would prefer to spend their twilights years at home, rather than an
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adult care facility and this can be made possible by adding ramps, replacing carpet with hard floors, walk-in showers and a plethora of other senior-friendly hardware. “People want to avoid paying $4,000 to $8,000 a month for assisted living care,” Carey said. “They want to stay in their homes, they want independence and they want dignity.” Carey Bros. Remodeling is located at 2624 Verne Roberts Circle in Antioch. For more information, call 877-734-6404, email info@careybros.com or visit https:// careybros.com.
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MAY 29, 2020
HOME & GARDEN
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NOR-CAL JUNK REMOVAL
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Outdoor projects with added value
E
xterior renovations can enhance the appearance of a property and make it more
enjoyable for homeowners. Certain renovations have the potential to add value to a home, while others may do the opposite. Learning which ones have the largest return on investment can help homeowners select features that will have the most positive impact. ♦♦ Lawn care program: Investing in a lawn care program that consists of fertilizer and weed-control application and can be transferred over to a subsequent homeowner is an attractive feature. The National Association of Realtors says such a care program can recover $1,000 in value of the $330 average cost, or a 303 percent ROI. ♦♦ Low-maintenance lifestyle: When choosing materials for projects, those that offer low-maintenance benefits can be preferential. These include low-maintenance patio materials, composite decking, vinyl fencing and inorganic mulched beds. ♦♦ Firepit: A firepit can be used for much
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of the year. In the spring and summer, the firepit is a great place to congregate to roast marshmallows or sip wine and gaze into the fire. In the fall, the firepit can make for a cozy retreat. A firepit that has a gas burner is low-maintenance, and the National Association of Landscape Professionals says that most can recoup about $4,000 of their $6,000 average price tag. ♦♦ Softscaping: Hardscaping refers to structures like outdoor kitchens or decks. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. Hiring a landscape designer to install trees, shrubs, natural edgin and rock elements can do wonders toward improving the look and value of a home. ♦♦ Pool or water feature: In certain markets, particularly hot climates, a pool or another water feature is a must-have. However, in other areas where outdoor time is limited, a pool or water feature can actually lower the value of a home. Speaking with a real estate professional can give homeowners an idea of how a pool will fare in a given neighborhood. Outdoor improvements can improve the marketability of a home, as well as enhance its appearance and function. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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American National is a group of companies writing a broad array of insurance products and services, comprised of American National Insurance Company, headquartered in American American National isisa agroup groupof ofcompanies companies writing writing a abroad broad array arrayofofinsurance insurance products products and andservices, services,comprised comprised ofofFarm American American National National Insurance Insurance Company, Company, headquartered headquartered inin Galveston, Texas, National and its subsidiaries including American National Property And Casualty Company, Springfield, Missouri; Family Casualty Insurance Company, Glenmont, New Galveston, Galveston, Texas, Texas,and and itssubsidiaries subsidiaries including including American American National National Property Property And Casualty Casualty Company, Company, Springfield, Springfield, Missouri; Missouri; Farm Farm Family FamilyCasualty CasualtyInsurance Insurance Company, Company, Glenmont, Glenmont, New York; United FarmNational Family Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York; FarmofFamily LifeAnd Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York; and American National Life Insurance Company of in New American is aits group of companies writing a broad array insurance products and services, comprised of American National Insurance Company, headquartered York; York; United United Farm Farm Family Family Insurance Insurance Company, Company, Glenmont, New New York; York; Farm Farm Family Family Life LifeInsurance Insurance Company, Company, Glenmont, Glenmont, New NewYork; York;and and American American National Life Insurance Insurance Company Company of New York, Glenmont, New York. Not all companies areGlenmont, licensed inNational all states. In New York,Casualty business is conducted by the above companies with a homeNational office inLife Glenmont, New York. of Galveston, Texas, and its subsidiaries including American Property And Company, Springfield, Missouri; Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company, Glenmont, New American National is aresponsibility group of companies writing a are broad arrayinin of insurance products and services, comprised of American National Insurance Company, headquartered in New NewYork, York, Glenmont, Glenmont, New New York. York. Not Not allallcompanies companies are licensed licensed allall states. InIn New New York, business business isisconducted conducted by bythe the above above companies with with a ahome homeoffice office in inGlenmont, Glenmont, New NewYork. York. Each Company has financial only for theGlenmont, products and itstates. issues. Agents contracted with American National arecompanies independent contractors, notInsurance employees. York; United Farmand Family Insurance Company, Newservices York; Farm Family LifeYork, Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York; and American National Life Company of Galveston, Texas, its subsidiaries including American National Property And Casualty Company, Springfield, Missouri; Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company, Glenmont, New Each Each Company Company has hasfinancial financial responsibility responsibility only onlyfor forthe thelicensed products products and and services services it New itissues. issues. Agents Agents contracted contracted with withAmerican American National National are areindependent independent contractors, contractors, not notemployees. employees. New York, Glenmont, New York. Not all companies are in all states. In York, business is conducted by the above companies with a home office in Glenmont, New York. York; United Farm Family Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York; Farm Family Life Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York; and American National Life Insurance Company of 14-065-87147.V3.2.2017 Each Company has financial responsibility only for the productsinand issues. Agents contracted with American National are independent contractors, not employees. New York, Glenmont, New York. Not all companies are licensed all services states. Init New York, business is conducted by the above companies with a home office in Glenmont, New York. 14-065-87147.V3.2.2017 14-065-87147.V3.2.2017 Each Company has financial responsibility only for the products and services it issues. Agents contracted with American National are independent contractors, not employees.
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This spring, homeowners can embrace various strategies, both big and small, to give their homes a whole new feel.
PAINTING & CONSTRUCTION
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
• Stucco • Drywall • Cabinets • Flooring • Interior Painting • Exterior Painting
Decor ideas to give homes a fresh look this spring
CALL TODAY
510-791-8800 Chad Banuelos
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President License #726398 Class C33B Bond SC404920
pring is a season of rejuvenation and that spirit of renewal can
3130 Balfour Road Brentwood, CA (Serving all Bay Area & Cental Valley Area’s)
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Warm weather and longer hours of daylight make spring a perfect time to imagine a home’s interior design in a new light. The following are a handful of decor ideas that may inspire homeowners to give their homes an entirely new look this spring.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper fell out of favor years ago, but new styles that aren’t so heavily patterned can make for wonderful additions to any room. Large-scale prints can give a room a whole new feel without giving homeowners or their guests the impression that they have stepped back in time. A simple, mural-style floral wallpaper on the walls surrounding a table in a breakfast nook can bring nature inside. see Decor page 11B
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Often, the most subtle changes to an interior space make the biggest impression. Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Decor from page 10B
Pastel colors
Nothing embodies the spring quite like pastel colors. If colorful, bright flowers dot the garden in the backyard, homeowners can bring those uplifting pastels inside by painting an accent wall or even adding some brightly colored accent furniture to rooms that could use a lift.
Declutter
Clutter is often conquered during spring cleaning sessions, but homeowners who want to create more free-flowing interior spaces can downsize their furniture or look for multipurpose features that make it hard for clutter to take over a room. Create more open space in entertaining areas by mounting the television and getting rid of a bulky entertainment center. Create even more space by replacing rarely used end tables with a storage ottoman where books and magazines can be stored to give a room a fresh, clean look.
Sometimes the smallest changes to an interior space make the biggest impression.
reduce • reuse • recycle • respect • recover Help us keep as many items out of the landfill as possible.
Accent features
Sometimes the smallest changes to an interior space make the biggest impression. Replace dated accents like vases and table lamps with newer items that reflect the latest styles and trends. Such adjustments won’t break the bank, and they can give rooms a whole new feel. Spring is a great time to reconsider home interiors. This spring, homeowners can embrace various strategies, both big and small, to give their homes a whole new feel. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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Conserving energy around the house with DIY projects
H
ome renovation projects
seal any leaks on heating and cooling ducts. Homeowners who seal uncontrolled air leaks can save between 10% and 20% on their annual heating and cooling bills. Plant shade trees If you plant a deciduous tree between 6- and 8-feet tall near your home, it will begin to shade your windows within a year of being planted. Depending on the species of the tree and the home, the shade tree will begin shading the roof within five to 10 years. The DOE notes that shading is the most cost-effective way to reduce air conditioning costs. Properly planted shade trees can reduce air conditioning costs by anywhere from 15% to 50%. Insulate the water heater tank New water tanks are likely already insulated. But homeowners with older hot water tanks can insulate their tanks with a water heater insulation blanket kit. Insulating a water heater tank can save homeowners as much as 16% on their annual water heating bills. Even the smallest DIY projects can produce big savings. More information about energy-saving home improvement projects can be found at www.energy.gov. – Courtesy Metro Creative
can pay numerous dividends. Renovations can
have a positive effect on resale value, make homes more livable for residents and, in some ways, make homes more affordable. When looking for ways to conserve energy around the house and save money, homeowners need not necessarily commit to expensive projects. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) notes that the following are some energy-saving projects and details what homeowners can expect to save after completing them. While each individual project may not result in jaw-dropping savings, homeowners who follow many of these recommendations may end up saving more than $1,000 per year. Seal uncontrolled air leaks Air leaks let cool air in during winter and warm air in during summer. Caulking, sealing and weather stripping all cracks and large openings can cut back on air leaks that are costing you money. The DOE recommends hiring a contractor to
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Planting blueberries can be a rewarding hobby that also can save gardeners money at the grocery store.
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Tips for planting blueberries
A
trip to the produce aisle at a local grocery store can unveil a host of healthy additions to
anyone’s diet. Such a jaunt also can raise eyebrows, as produce, particularly organic fruits and vegetables, can be very expensive. Consumers may feel helpless to corral the cost of healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, but all hope should not be lost. That’s especially so for people willing to give gardening a try. Blueberries are one of the healthiest foods people can eat. The USDA National Nutrient Database notes that blueberries, which are low in calories and high in fiber, are great sources of the vitamins C, K and B6. However, organic blueberries can be among the most expensive foods in the produce aisle. Various factors, including where blueberries come from and whether or not they’re organic, dictate their cost. But it’s not uncommon to pay roughly $4 for a six-ounce package of organic blueberries. For some, such costs are prohibitive. Growing blueberries in a home garden can save blueberry lovers substantial amounts of money while ensuring they reap all of the benefits of this highly nutritious and edible berry. The following are some tips novices can employ as they plant their first batch of blueberries. ♦♦ Consult a local garden center. The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council recommends con-
sulting a local garden center before planting blueberries. The professionals at such centers can recommend the best variety of blueberry to plant. That’s an important first step, as the USHBC notes that farmers cultivate dozens of varieties of highbush blueberries across North America. Lowbush varieties also may be a gardener’s best option depending on where he or she lives. A local garden center can help you determine which variety best suits your local climate. ♦♦ Plant where there is ample sun and welldrained soil. The roots of blueberry plants should remain moist throughout the growing season, so choose an area where the soil drains well. If that’s hard to find, consider planting in raised beds or patio containers. In addition, the University of Minnesota Extension notes that blueberries require full sun, so plant in a spot where the blueberries will not be denied daily sunlight. ♦♦ Prepare the soil. Blueberries require acidic soil, so running a soil test prior to planting is a good idea. Speak with a local garden center about soil adjustments if the soil is unlikely to promote growth. ♦♦ Fertilize carefully. The USHBC notes that established blueberry plants will respond well to acid fertilizers. However, it’s important not to overdo it, as blueberries are sensitive to over-fertilization. Follow fertilization instructions and speak with local garden center professionals for advice. ♦♦ Be patient. The UME notes that plants won’t bear much fruit in their first two to three years, and that harvests are bigger after five years. So patience is a virtue blueberry planters must embrace. – Courtesy of Metro Creative
Mark Murray, Agent 2051 MAIN ST., OAKLEY
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absolute “Susan has been an She was I. & lan Al to blessing the way, there every step of d beyond an and went above tate es l rea the duty of a number is e Sh al. profession truly is the 1 in my book! She s. I highly es best in the busin the sale in r he recommend e her a giv I . me ho of one’s rs.” diamond over 5 sta ~ Alison Roby
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Tips to successfully grow tomatoes
S
licing into the first tomato of the season is a much-anticipated moment for gardeners.
Tomatoes are among the most popular fruit or vegetable plants grown in home gardens. Much of that popularity may be credited to the fact that red, ripe tomatoes have a delicious, juicy flavor that serves as the basis for all sorts of recipes. And since tomatoes
Real Estate, at least for me, is about so much more
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can just as easily be grown in a full backyard garden or in a container on a patio or balcony, tomatoes appeal to gardeners regardless of their living situations. While tomatoes are relatively easy to grow, they are prone to certain problems and pests. Knowledge of what to expect when planting tomatoes and how to start off on the right footing can help produce a season’s worth of delicious bounty. ♦♦ Wait until after the last average frost date. Tomatoes can be grown from seeds outdoors in warm areas, but tomato gardeners often find success starting seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Gradually introduce seedlings to the elements for a few hours each day, increasing the duration of time outside. Then they can be transplanted outdoors when temperatures are consistently over 60 F. ♦♦ Choose a sunny spot. Tomatoes love to soak up sunlight, according to The Home Depot. Place the plants in a sunny spot so they can thrive. ♦♦ Space out plants. The experts at Better Homes and Gardens say to leave anywhere from 24 to 48 inches between plants to accommodate for growth and ensure the plants will not get stunted. ♦♦ Plant deeply. Tomatoes tend to root along their stems. If transplants are long and lean, dig a trench and lay the stem sideways in the dirt, and then bend the top of the plant upward. Snip off the lower
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branches and cover with soil up to the first set of leaves. This will produce extra root growth and stronger, more vital plants. ♦♦ Give the plants support. Tomato cages or stakes can help keep the leaves and fruit from touching the ground, which can cause rot and, eventually, death to the tomato plant. ♦♦ Lay down a layer of mulch. Tomatoes grow best when the soil is consistently moist. Mulch can help retain moisture from watering and rain. Mulch also will help prevent soil and soil-borne diseases from splashing on the leaves and plants when it rains. While you amend the soil, make sure that it drains well and is slightly acidic. ♦♦ Prune away suckers. Tomatoes produce “suckers,” which are leaves that shoot out from the main stem. Removing these leaves promotes air circulation and keeps the plant’s energy focused on growing fruit. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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Tomatoes are a rich addition to any garden. A few simple tricks can help even novice gardeners grow delicious tomatoes.
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Pollinators are important participants in gardens
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tools and components, including trowels, rakes, soil, amendments, and fertilizer, can help gardeners create beautiful spaces. It’s also important that pollinators are made to feel welcome in the garden. The United States Department of Agriculture reports that one-third of all agricultural output depends on pollinators. The USDA notes that insects and other animal pollinators are vital to the production of healthy crops for food, fibers, edible oils, medicines, and other products. Pollinators also are essential for maintaining habitats and ecosystems that many wild animals rely on for food and shelter. The U.S. Forest Service says that, without pollinators, the human race and all of the earth’s terrestrial ecosystems would not survive. Pollination done the natural way often yields large, flavorful fruits. Pollinators are make-or-break components of large-scale agriculture, and they’re just as important in private home gardens. The Pollinator Partnership, an organization that works to protect pollinators and their habitats across North America, says pollinators include bees, butterflies, beetles, birds, and bats. These animals travel from plant to plant carrying pollen on their bodies. The following are some ways to maintain healthy pollinator habitats. ♦♦ Consider the soil and types of plants that will thrive in it before choosing what to plant. Fix drainage issues and plant with sunlight in mind. ♦♦ Vary the colors and shapes of plants to attract a greater array of pollinators. Plant
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Insects and other animal pollinators are vital to the production of healthy crops for food, fibers, edible oils, medicines, and other products. flowers close to vegetable gardens to attract pollinators. ♦♦ Group plants together when planting to more effectively attract pollinators. ♦♦ Select plants that flower at different times of the year so that nectar and pollen sources are available year-round. ♦♦ Whenever possible, choose native plants. ♦♦ Avoid the use of pesticides. ♦♦ Provide a water source for pollinators, such as a shallow dish with stones halfsubmerged for perching. Pollinators are important for gardens, whether those gardens are commercial operations or small backyard plots. Allow pollinators to share spaces and be mindful of behaviors that can threaten their survival. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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