Category: Sacramento & Sierra Foothills Real Estate

Get Fit in Roseville California

John LaRosa 04/09/2014

The town of Roseville, CA is getting more popular by the minute. It isn’t just that this is a great place to live; it’s a great place to cultivate a new kind of lifestyle. In many communities, people tend to work out in their homes; people in Roseville have learned to combine fitness with community and take it to a whole other level.

Consider the Saturday Art Walk that happens every 3rd Saturday of the month between six and nine in the evenings. Businesses stay open and welcome visitors to see the latest artwork of community artists. The community gets to support local artisans, while getting exercise at the same time. It’s a great way to meet other members of the community, get out of the house and support local businesses of all types, while enjoying the simple exercise of walking.

For those who live in Roseville, CA and want a bit more focus on their exercise plan, the Town Square has plenty to offer. You can find yoga and other exercise classes being held at the Town Square on Vernon Street for very little cost. This is a great way for the community to get together and embrace healthy practices, while getting to know each other. Anyone 16 or over can join, so there is ample opportunity for the whole family to do something together while getting healthy and meeting other members of the community. 

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Relive History in Grass Valley

John LaRosa 04/09/2014

Grass Valley, California is a quaint small town that was listed in Time Magazine as one of the top ten places in America to live. Homes in Grass Valley tend to sell quickly, not just because it is a small town or because it was listed in Time Magazine, but because of the historic atmosphere. From old-fashioned hospitality to some of the most famous gold mines in history, Grass Valley reminds Americans of the way life used to be, when times were much simpler.

History plays an important role in any area. Grass Valley just happens to boast the Empire Mine State Historic Park, where visitors can see detailed elements of the California Gold Rush. The Empire Mine was one of the most popular mines in California, because it also happened to be one of the most popular. Visitors can see how things were done and get a glimpse of the past as they walk the trails and note some of the elements that were used back then.  Items like the A-frame that was in constant use as a method by which to load and unload heavy equipment, or the enormous generators that pumped electric through the mines are popular among tourists and residents of Grass Valley.

Visitors will see everything from the Sand Dam where waste ore was dumped to the WYOD (Work Your Own Diggins) mine, where people could rent an area and try to mine the gold from it. In short, there is plenty of history to be celebrated here, from a home in Grass Valley to trails that you can spend days walking on.

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Live Among California History in Rocklin

John LaRosa 04/08/2014

If natural beauty, the environment and California history are among your passions, consider looking at Rocklin homes for sale.

Even with the natural beauty that is all of California, Rocklin manages to set itself apart as a diverse look at the state’s geography. From the granite quarry in the Secret Ravine, to open spaces and wetlands reserved by the city to promote natural beauty within it, looking at Rocklin homes can be an exercise in nature appreciation.

The community’s dedication to preserving the California environment is second only to its dedication to preserving California history. Rocklin happily traces its roots to the California Gold Rush, and many of the areas of town are at least named for the types of immigrants who once lived here. China Gardens, for example, was the temporary home to Chinese immigrants wanting to make a living growing vegetables. Though the residents were chased away in one of the less attractive moments of California history, the name persists.

Residents of Rocklin are also reminded of the Finnish settlers with the Old Finnish Picnic Grounds and Finn Hall. Tradition is important in Rocklin — so much so, that even after birds and weather toppled the steeple at St. Mary’s Wedding Chapel, and thieves ran off with the bell, the tradition continues for brides exiting the chapel to ring the temporary replacement bell for good fortune.

History abounds in Rocklin, and owning a piece of California history, or maybe just a granite countertop from one of the area’s historic quarries, is definitely an option for those who are interested.

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Roseville Condos Offer Convenience

John LaRosa 03/26/2014

Sometimes you want to live close to the city without actually living in the city. If that’s your dream, then Roseville condos may be the first place to start looking.

Located just 20 miles northeast of Sacramento, Roseville acts as a buffer between the city’s skyline and the more wide-open spaces of the Sierra Foothills. It’s also a great place to live and work in its own right.

But many people who look at Roseville condos for sale do so because it’s close to everything. The commute into Sacramento is an easy morning drive, and the drive to the mountains is short and easy as well. Equally important, real estate in this nice suburban community offers all the benefits of being outside the city, which include affordable prices with a lower crime rate and a little bit more space.

In your Roseville condo, you can get all the benefits of living in a condo complex: no yard work, like-minded neighbors and someone to call when you need maintenance assistance. You can choose a condo complex that fits your lifestyle – laid-back weekends or thriving nightlife. For the young professional not quite ready for the tasks related to home ownership, or those seeking to downsize, Roseville condos represent a variety of lifestyle options and price ranges.

Because location, location, location is key in real estate, investing in Roseville just makes sense. This conveniently located suburb offers you quick access to everything you want and need, but without the constant hustle and noise of the city.

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Granite Bay Houses Mean Luxury

John LaRosa 03/26/2014

When you decide to look for a home in the nicest community in northern California, look no further than Granite Bay.

Residents in this small community respect each other’s space. With just 20,000 residents in 21 square miles, your new home will have the privacy and outdoor living space you want with amenities close at hand. Exclusive neighborhoods and luxury homes are the norm here, as are excellent schools, shopping and great recreational opportunities.

Just 25 miles northeast of Sacramento, Granite Bay may have previously been home to an entertainer or star athlete, but now it’s the perfect place for you and your family. The focus here is on quality of life, not the rat race. The crime rate is low and property values are on the rise.

With spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granite Bay is located near the base of the foothills, offering perfect California weather and an easy commute to either the mountains or the beach. Then there are the neighbors. Granite Bay is such a great place to live that many prominent Californians have chosen to call this great town their home. You never know who you might see at the grocery store!

But the best reason to look at Granite Bay real estate is to find a home that has everything you have ever wanted. Many of these spacious, luxury homes are in planned communities with homeowners’ associations to help protect your property value and your investment. Maybe it’s time to move home to Granite Bay.

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Rockin’ Homes in Rocklin

John LaRosa 03/24/2014

Buyers will find that there are homes for sale in Rocklin, CA to fit virtually any budget. The market has a wide variety of properties to view, from detached houses to condos and townhomes. Situated 22 miles northeast of Sacramento, the city is located in Placer County. Families who want to relocate to the area will find easy access to several schools, walking and biking trails, shopping centers, golf courses and a variety of local activities. There are plenty of reasons to move to a new home in Rocklin.

Single-family home options including townhouses, condominiums and other attached units, in the median price range of $250,000 to $500,000, can be found throughout the city. Detached homes are priced at an average of $420,000. In March of 2014 a simple empty 6,600-square foot lot was on the market for $75,000, with sewer and water access. This offers the rare opportunity for a new-construction home or manufactured home. You can also find spacious homes that offer two or three bedrooms at affordable prices throughout Rocklin. Really, no matter what size home you are looking for or what your budget is, you can find the perfect home for you and your family in this community.

Many of the house listings offer comfort and style to meet personal requirements, such as multiple bathrooms and modern kitchens; tile, laminate, wood or carpeted floors; and a garage. They may have fireplaces to go along with central air conditioning and heating. Rocklin, CA homes for sale are situated on landscaped lots, some with swimming pools, floral gardens, or breathtaking views of the Sacramento Valley.

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A Golden Life in Grass Valley, California

John LaRosa 03/24/2014

From quaint little cabins to multi-million dollar estates, every need and budget can be accommodated when looking for homes for sale in Grass Valley. This scenic California charter city is located in Nevada County in the Sierra Nevada Mountain foothills. A small-town lifestyle in the historic gold mining town is appreciated both by the bustling neighborhood of families and the busy retirement community.

Listings have a wide range of prices, from under $100,000 to just under $4 million, with the median cost at about $350,000. Completely remodeled older homes, Victorian showplaces, and modern estates are all found in this lovely community. Most of the properties are spacious single-family dwellings with an average of two to three bedrooms.

Real estate sales include cabins for singles, starter homes for couples, spacious ranch houses, and beautiful new-construction homes. Growing families may want to consider larger homes with enough acreage to provide play areas, gardens and swimming pools. Retirees will find comfortable homes that require minimal care and which have room enough for visiting children and grandchildren. Area schools include Grass Valley Elementary and Nevada Union High School in the Nevada District. Grass Valley Charter School and Sierra College add to the educational assets in the area.

The northern California city is a picturesque setting for homes for sale in Grass Valley. The healthy business climate adds to the magnetism of buying a house in the area. For anyone looking for a beautiful new home, Grass Valley is definitely a great place to start looking.

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Small Town Atmosphere Close to Everything

Mary Pizzimenti 03/21/2014

There’s something nice about living in a small town. You know everybody. You feel safe. Everybody roots for the same high school football team. When you look at homes for sale in Grass Valley, these are things that make you think it’s a good place to live. 

Then again, there is that nagging voice in the back of your head, the one that says small towns are insulated and can’t offer your family the cultural exposure you want them to have. That voice asks you about art museums and concerts, multi-cultural cuisine and intellectual discourse. Now’s the time for you to tell that little voice just how wrong it is. 

The homes for sale in Grass Valley aren’t thousands of miles from civilization. In fact, Nevada City is just 10 minutes away. Visiting an artist or other cultural offering barely means having to leave home! For a little excitement, there’s a thriving nightlife that the San Francisco Guardian said was reminiscent of Savannah or New Orleans, and any of the regions’ wineries are sure to provide an outlet for your need for a little culinary exploration. 

And let’s be honest, shall we? 

How often do you really take advantage of those so-called opportunities in the city? Between fighting the crowds and hunting for parking, not to mention the cost of tickets, events can be burdensome. But that little voice keeps telling us that at least they are there if we want them. 

Tell that little voice the big city attractions will still be there, but in Grass Valley or Nevada City you’ll also have the option of small town festivals, friendly neighbors and quiet nights. What more could you ask for?

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Finding a Rocklin Home for Your Family

Mary Pizzimenti 03/21/2014

Finding the perfect place for your family to call home can be difficult, but Rocklin homes for sale have all the charm of a 1950s television show, with all the modern amenities you want and need. 

We may not really want to live in the ‘50s, but those old black-and-white television shows sure made their neighborhoods look appealing. People knew their neighbors, children rode their bikes in safety, and Saturdays were meant for mowing the lawn and barbequing in the backyard. That idyllic dream of a safe place to raise your family, complete with beautiful homes and nice neighbors, doesn’t have to be a daydream or wishful thinking. 

Rocklin homes for sale can meet almost any family budget, and the community is close enough to outdoor recreation options that an afternoon spent hiking in the nearby Sierra Nevada Foothills or fishing at Folsom Lake with the family isn’t out of the question. You just might want something a bit more modern than an old cane pole! 

Enjoying the natural beauty of Rocklin doesn’t mean forgoing the culture of the city. You can treat your spouse to dinner and a show in Sacramento, knowing your children are safe at home just half an hour away. 

To enjoy the advantages of small city living, from Little League to the PTA, your home in Rocklin has all the advantages of Leave it to Beaver, without the need to travel through time. Your perfect home may be awaiting you in a neighborhood where children still play outside safely and your commute doesn’t take all weekend!

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What Your Grass Valley Real Estate Agent Can Do for You

Mary Pizzimenti 03/21/2014

A real estate agent is more than just a person who helps you buy a new home. Your real estate agent acts as your concierge, neighborhood welcome committee, and your advocate when you shop for a new house. When you look for Grass Valley homes for sale, be sure your real estate agent can give you all of these services. 

Real estate agents understand the communities where they sell homes. This means they know where the best restaurants and schools are and where you can find furniture, lighting and home décor accessories. When you move to a new neighborhood or city, you might not know where these businesses are or where to turn for help. Your real estate agent gives you this support when you need it. 

When looking for a new home, you need someone who can help you find the right house, not the most expensive one. Believe it or not, real estate agents want to put you in the best home for your budget. Your agent will be able to help you find out the pros and cons of each home. Is there enough closet space? Do you need a home with more than one bathroom? What is the school district like and will it meet the needs of your family? Real estate agents are experts at matching you with a home that has all the features you are looking for at a price that meets your budget. 

When you shop for Grass Valley homes for sale, be sure to choose a Realtor who wants to be your partner in finding a new home. You should be able to rely on your agent to help you find your home, not just a house.

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