NewFamilyLegacy.com Blog

Welcome to our blog. We hope to educate you and share relevant content that inspires and moves you forward in your legacy journey. 

Feb. 20, 2022

Mountain Biking at Cronan Ranch

Mountain Biking at Cronan Ranch:

What an incredible weekend of mountain biking at Cronan Ranch in Pilot Hill. 1418 acres of trails along the South Fork of the American River. Let us know if you are ready to make your move out to the country! 

If you are ready to make a move to this area, visit Pilot Hill Homes for Sale

Posted in Mountain Biking
March 25, 2021

eXp Realty expands to Italy

eXp World Holdings Expands Real Estate Operations Into Italy

One of the Fastest-growing Global Real Estate Companies Extends its Footprint In Continental Europe, With the Opening of eXp Italy

 

One of the Fastest-growing Global Real Estate Companies Extends its Footprint In Continental Europe, With the Opening of eXp Italy

 

 

BELLINGHAM, Wash., March 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — eXp World Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXPI), the holding company for eXp Realty, one of the fastest-growing real estate companies in the world, has expanded into Italy, under the eXp Italy banner. In addition to its robust U.S. presence, eXp Realty also operates in 10 other countries and locations, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, India, Mexico, Portugal, Puerto Rico, South Africa and the United Kingdom, with more than 49,000 agents across the globe.

eXp Realty’s worldwide expansion is being led by Michael Valdes, President of eXp Global and an international real estate veteran with experience opening markets around the world.

“In the midst of a shifting global market due to COVID-19, our company and global regions have seen unprecedented growth. As we continue to expand throughout continental Europe, we are thrilled to introduce the eXp model and culture to Italy, a country in which we have already registered substantial interest,” said Valdes. “Italy continues to see high demand in major cities. With central bank policies and capital flows creating favorable market conditions, the country has demonstrated a resilient housing market that we are excited to be a part of. As the fourth-largest economy in Europe, Italy is a key player in our expansion. Our agent-centric model has provided life-changing benefits in 11 countries so far and will be a welcome addition to the choices available to real estate agents in Italy.”

eXp Italy’s brokerage operations will be led by Denis Andrian, Director, eXp Italy. Andrian brings decades of experience in the European luxury real estate market.

“The last year has brought about major changes in the Italian real estate industry, with nearly all real estate agencies facing an immediate need to adapt to the digitized market,” said Andrian. “eXp is entering Italy at an ideal time, as the business model provides a solution to the new needs of real estate agents, which include a virtual work structure, a global community, distance learning, and the ability to meet a changing market with innovation and agility. With its cloud-based structure, competitive model and low fixed costs, eXp offers a high level of professionalism and quality service to the end consumer. The future of the real estate market has arrived in Italy with eXp!”

eXp’s presence in Italy will encompass all major cities and regions. Italy represents one of the countries that eXp Global has identified for expansion during the first quarter of 2021. Puerto Rico launched in January, Brazil in February, and Hong Kong is also set to launch in Q1 2021.

eXp Realty offers a unique financial model for residential and commercial real estate agents, going beyond attractive commissions to provide its agents with an opportunity to earn additional income by helping the company to grow its revenue base anywhere in the world. Agents can also earn equity in eXp World Holdings stock for listing and selling activities. eXp’s cloud-based brokerage is powered by Virbela, the company’s immersive and collaborative platform, enabling agents and staff to communicate, meet and conduct business in a virtual world.

About eXp World Holdings, Inc.

eXp World Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXPI) is the holding company for eXp Realty, Virbela and SUCCESS Enterprises.

eXp World Holdings and its global brokerage, eXp Realty, is one of the fastest-growing real estate tech companies in the world with more than 49,000 agents in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, India, Mexico, Portugal, France, Puerto Rico, Brazil and Italy and continues to scale internationally. As a publicly traded company, eXp World Holdings provides real estate professionals the unique opportunity to earn equity awards for production goals and contributions to overall company growth. eXp World Holdings and its businesses offer a full suite of brokerage and real estate tech solutions, including its innovative residential and commercial brokerage model, professional services, collaborative tools and personal development. The cloud-based brokerage is powered by an immersive 3D platform that is deeply social and collaborative, enabling agents to be more connected and productive.
For more information, visit https://expworldholdings.com/.

Safe Harbor Statement

The statements contained herein may include statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update them. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the economic and social effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; continued growth of our agent and broker base; expansion of our residential real estate brokerage business into foreign markets; demand for remote working and distance learning solutions and virtual events; development of our new commercial brokerage and our ability to attract commercial real estate brokers; and revenue growth and financial performance. Such statements are not guarantees of future performance. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those expressed in forward-looking statements include changes in business or other market conditions; the difficulty of keeping expense growth at modest levels while increasing revenues; and other risks detailed from time to time in the company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to the most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Media Relations Contact:
eXp World Holdings, Inc.
Mediarelations@expworldholdings.com

Italy Media Relations Contact:
eXp Italy
pressrelations@expitaly.it

Investor Relations Contact:
MZ Group – MZ North America
Investors@expworldholdings.com

reposted from expworldholdings.com

#exprealty #newfamilylegacy #revenueshare #agentownership #realestate #italy #puertorico #southafrica #mexicobusiness

Posted in Real Estate
March 19, 2021

Emerald Bay

We love boating on Lake Tahoe. If you are considering a move to El Dorado County, we'd love to help you. See all homes for sale at www.NewFamilyLegacy.com/El-Dorado-County. 

Posted in Real Estate
March 19, 2020

New Wave of Foreclosures Coming?

With all of the chaos that has erupted from COVID-19, many people are worried that we may see a new wave of foreclosures. Many believe this is going to be another 2008. Restaurants, bars, brewpubs, hotels, cruise lines, airlines, and many other industries are laying off workers or dramatically cutting back their hours. Without employment, many homeowners are wondering how they’ll be able to make their mortgage payments moving forward.

Even with all of this happening right now, there are actually many reasons we don’t believe we will see a surge in the number of foreclosures like we did during the housing crash over ten years ago. Here are just a few of those reasons to consider:

Lessons Learned by the Government the Last Time

During the previous housing crash, the government response was slow as they failed to recognize the pitfalls of the risky mortgages that were in place, the challenges homeowners were having and waited too long to grant relief. Today, our Government is taking swift action. Just this week:

  • The Federal Housing Administration indicated it is enacting an “immediate foreclosure and eviction moratorium for single family homeowners with FHA-insured mortgages” for the next 60 days. 
  • The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced it is directing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to suspend foreclosures and evictions for “at least 60 days.”

Homeowners Learned their Lesson Last Time Around

When the housing market was booming in the early 2000s, homeowner equity grew tremendously. Many homeowners refinanced to access that equity and used it to buy luxury items like cars, boats, and went on vacations. When the market corrected, many found themselves in a negative equity situation. Their mortgages were now greater than the value of their homes. Some stopped paying their mortgage and ultimately walked away, leaving the banks with no other option but to foreclose on their properties.

Currently, the home equity situation in America is very different. From 2005-2007, homeowners refinanced and cashed out $824 billion worth of home equity. In the last three years, cash taken out through refinancing has only been $232 billion, a third of what we saw the last time. This has led to:

  • 37% of homes in America having no mortgage at all
  • For the remaining 63%, more than 1 in 4 having over 50% equity

Even if prices decrease a bit (and, at this point, most experts are not predicting that they will), most homeowners will still have a large amount of value in their homes and will not walk away.

Help will be Available to Individuals and Small Businesses

The government is aware of and quickly addressing the financial pain this virus has caused and will continue to cause. Yesterday, the Associated Press reported:

“In a memorandum, Treasury proposed two $250 billion cash infusions to individuals: A first set of checks issued starting April 6, with a second wave in mid-May. The amounts would depend on income and family size.”

The plan also recommends $300 billion for small businesses.

Moving Forward...

We are facing uncertain and challenging times ahead. The question everyone has right now is how long before we get back to “normal.” We believe the lessons learned in the last crisis have Americans better prepared to weather the coming financial storm. For those who can’t, help is expected to come soon. We all need to unite together and help one another. United we stand, divided we fall. 

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Taylor Real Estate Group (brokered by eXp Realty) does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Taylor Real Estate Group will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

 

Posted in Real Estate
March 5, 2020

The Coronavirus Impact on the U.S. Housing Market

Coronavirus Impact on Real Estate Market

The Coronavirus Impact on the U.S. Housing Market

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has created massive global uncertainty, including a U.S. stock market correction and volatility that was unexpected. While much of the news focus has been about the effect on various financial markets, we must also acknowledge the true impact it continues to have on lives and families around the globe.

With all this uncertainty, how do you make confident decisions in regards to your Real Estate goals?

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) anticipates:

“At the very least, the Coronavirus could cause some people to put home sales on hold.”

While this is understandable, it is important to balance that with what a pause might cost you long term. If you’re considering buying or selling a home, it is key to educate yourself so that you make thoughtful and strategic decisions for your future.

For example, right now we are seeing interest rates at near all-time lows. Your buying power is maximized right now with the extremely low interest rates. Also, when there’s public fear, investors flee stocks for the safety of U.S. bonds, which drives mortgage interest rates even lower. This dynamic should be a strong consideration when making real estate decisions.

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB):

“The Fed’s action was expected but perhaps not to this degree and timing. And the policy change was consistent with recent declines for interest rates in the bond market. These declines should push mortgage interest rates closer to a low 3% average for the 30-year fixed rate mortgage.”

This is exactly what is happening now as mortgage interest rates are near the lowest levels in the history of the housing market.

What does this mean for you?

We still do not know what the full impact of the Coronavirus will be. For more information about the Coronavirus visit the CDC website. It is in times like these that working with an informed and educated Real Estate team like Taylor Real Estate Group is paramount as you decide your next steps. We are here to be a resource for you.

 

Posted in Real Estate
Feb. 27, 2020

Should I Buy a Home in 2020?

Reasons you should buy a home in 2020. For more info, visit us at www.NewFamilyLegacy.com/buying. #NewFamilyLegacy #RealEstate #Buyers #Sellers #RealEstateInvesting #FinancialLiteracy

Posted in Real Estate
Feb. 21, 2020

You May Have More Home Equity Than You Realize

You May Have More Home Equity Than You Realize

With home values continuing to rise, there's a good chance you have more home equity than you may realize. Let's connect to explore how you can use your home equity in your next move. For more information or to find out your home's value, click on the "What is your home worth" link at the top of the page.

 

Posted in Real Estate
Feb. 18, 2020

California Dreaming of the Perfect Vacation Home

California Dreaming of the Perfect Vacation Home

Photo via Unsplash

California offers a range of landscapes and endless things to do that is unmatched by any other US state. From the beautiful redwood forests of the north to the tranquil coastline of the Pacific, California is a vacation destination to millions every year. With so much to see and do, the vacation possibilities are almost endless. If you’ve found yourself California dreaming lately, maybe it’s time to find yourself a rental home in your favorite getaway.

However, maybe you’re not a high roller who can afford a mansion in the Hollywood Hills. Do your dreams of easygoing California living need to be squashed because your budget isn’t in the seven digits? No, you can find a reasonable vacation home in the Golden State in your desired area. You just need to do your research.

Perfect Beach Towns

Are you drawn to the soothing sound of the crashing waves? California’s beaches are some of the Golden State’s most appealing destination’s. California beach towns stand out for their laid-back lifestyle, beauty, and inviting spirit. If you’re dreaming about an adorable abode near the beach, there are plenty of options available. In Oxnard, for example, you’ll spend around $500,000 to purchase a rental property that will put you right next to the ocean.

LA, Baby!

Maybe the glitz and glam of Los Angeles is more your speed, and living near Hollywood movie stars excites you. Lots of people seek out LA in hopes of fame and fortune, but it’s still a city full of opportunities for those who are more low-key. Hot spots range from Chinatown and the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach to tourist meccas like the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You don’t need to be a millionaire to find a home in Los Angeles, you just need to know what you can afford and what area appeals to you. With so many, flocking to the city of show business, housing shortages are common. However, if the hustle and bustle of a big city with beaches is calling you, do your research and find affordable options.

California Wilderness Retreat

While many people associate California with surf and sun and movie stars, there are other areas to explore as well. For example, the San Ramon area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and loads of other outdoor activities. If this sounds like an area where you’d like to purchase a rental home, keep in mind that in San Ramon, you’ll pay around $1.04M on average, though being so close to nature might be worth every penny!

Of course, San Ramon isn’t the only place that offers countless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Just one and a half hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake provides endless adventures year-round. If you can handle the cold, bundle up in the winter and enjoy skiing and sledding, or set off in the summer on mountain bikes. At seven miles long and one mile wide, Big Bear is California’s largest recreational lake. What’s more, homes located in the Big Bear Lake area are usually more affordable than some of the other popular destinations in California. Whether you have your sights set on treehouse chalets and lavish cabins, or functional family homes, Big Bear is an adventurous destination you should seriously consider.

If you want to soak up the California sun and live like the locals, you have to find the perfect place to call home. You don’t need a big budget to claim your home away from home. Research your desired area and find out what’s possible.

- Henry Moore

Posted in Vacation Homes
Feb. 5, 2020

Does “Aging in Place” Make Sense for You?

According to the Senior Resource Guide, the term means,

“…that you will be remaining in your own home for the later years of your life; not moving into a smaller home, assisted living, or a retirement community etcetera.”

There is no doubt that you would find comfort staying in a home you’ve lived in for many years instead of moving to a totally unfamiliar or new environment. There is, however, new information that suggests this might not be the best option for everyone. The familiarity of your current home is a positive of aging in place, but the potential financial costs of remodeling or renovating your home might actually be more than the long-term benefits. Perhaps you live in a home that is larger than you need now, or maybe you live in a two-story home and a single-story home would better suit you in your later years.

A recent report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University (JCHS) titled Housing America’s Older Adults explained,

“Given their high home ownership rates, most older adults live in single-family homes. Of the 24 million homeowners age 65 and over, fully 80 percent lived in detached single-family units…The majority of these homes are now at least 40 years old and therefore may present maintenance challenges for their owners.”

If you’re in this place, 40 years ago you may have been raising a growing family. For that reason, you probably purchased a 4-bedroom home on a large piece of property in a child or family-friendly neighborhood. It was a great choice for your family, and you still love that home very much.

Today, your kids are likely grown and have moved out on their own, so you don’t need as many bedrooms. Perhaps the yard maintenance is time consuming and no longer suits your lifestyle. You might be thinking about taking some equity out of your house and converting one of your bedrooms into a massive master bathroom, and maybe another room into an open-space reading nook or maybe even exploring renovating your home to create more of an "open concept floor plan." You might also be thinking about cutting back on lawn maintenance by installing a pool surrounded by beautiful paving stones, or maybe even a spa to soothe increasingly sore muscles as you age gracefully.

It all sounds amazing, doesn’t it? In the short term, you may really enjoy the home upgrades, but you’ll still have to climb those stairs, pay to heat and cool a home that’s larger than what you need, and continue fixing all the things that start to go wrong with a 40-year-old home, including the battle of deferred maintenance.

Last month, in their Retirement ReportKiplinger addressed the point,

“Renovations are just a part of what you need to make aging in place work for you. While it’s typically less expensive to remain in your home than to pay for assisted living, that doesn’t mean it’s a slam dunk to stay put. You’ll still have a long to-do list. Just one example: You need to plan ahead for how you will manage maintenance and care—for your home, and for yourself.”

So, at some point, the time may come when you decide it is time to sell your house anyway. If you’ve already taken cash value out of your home, or taken out a reverse mortgage and used funds for the type of remodeling we mention here, it may be more difficult to sell. Realistically, some changes can actually inadvertently lower the value of your home, especially if you reduce the number of bedrooms, or make changes that may make the space more usable for you, but less desirable for a wide range of buyers. A future family moving into your neighborhood is likely similar to what your family was 40 years ago. They probably have young children and will want the extra bedrooms, and may or may not find a pool appealing.

Bottom Line

If your plan is to age in place, before you spend the money to remodel or renovate your current house, let’s get together to discuss your options. Making a move to a smaller home, even in the same neighborhood, might make the most sense for you. Maybe it's time to move closer to family, or even closer to conveniences like doctors and grocery stores, etc. We are here for you to be a resource. 

Bobby Taylor, Realtor ®, Seniors Real Estate Specialist ®

NewFamilyLegacy.com

(916) 989-9989

Posted in Seniors
Sept. 19, 2017

Seniors Downsizing

Downsizing in Your Golden Years: A Guide For Seniors

oldlady.jpg

Photo by Free-Photos

 

As a senior, it’s likely there will come a time when you need to downsize. You may want to get rid of an assortment of items and find yourself a smaller, more comfortable living space where you can enjoy your golden years.

 

Where to Begin

 

Finding the right home can be a daunting task, but with a little time and effort, you can find the perfect living situation for your needs. U.S. News says you should consider the type of lifestyle you intend to lead. If you’re still working, you may want to have an office space or a work area.

If you’re retired but intend to have guests such as children or grandchildren, consider getting a home with a little extra space. Condos are a popular option for seniors who frequently travel, as opposed to a single family home, which requires more upkeep and maintenance. When looking for a home, also consider details such as appliance height, home location, ease of access, and affordability.

 

Organizing Your Belongings

 

AARP recommends that seniors go through a checklist before downsizing your belongings. Checklist items include: creating a division of assets, establishing a sorting system, focusing on the lesser-used rooms first, and taking notes. Creating a division of assets, which helps your loved ones know who receives which items, should be done well in advance. This can prevent conflict during the move and eliminate unneeded stress. Establishing a sorting system with items in separate areas denoting what will be kept, what will be donated, and what will be tossed out can expedite the downsizing process. Starting with lesser-used rooms first will keep clutter out of the more occupied spaces, and keeping notes will ensure that you know where everything is.

 

Consider the floor plan of your new home and which pieces of furniture and large items you intend to keep. According to The Spruce, knowing what items will fit and what won’t can help make the decision easier. It’s also important to ask questions about each particular item you wish to keep. For example, ask questions like: How often do you use this item? Does it hold sentimental value? Would it be better in the hands of a loved one? How will this item serve your new home?

 

It’s also crucial to be patient with yourself. Downsizing can be a difficult and emotional process. Give yourself time to work through any emotions. If you need to, take a break, go for a walk, or talk to someone. Give yourself time to grieve the life you are leaving behind, if need be.

 

When to Call a Professional

 

A 2016 New York Times article outlines the benefits of hiring a professional moving manager for seniors. Moving managers specialize in helping seniors discern what to store with relatives, what to sell at auctions or liquidate, and what to throw away. They also take the brunt of heavy lifting, and allow the senior to separate themselves from the moving process — something that can be a daunting and potentially traumatic experience. The option of hiring specialty moving managers can be costly, however, with rates starting as low as $40 an hour and running as high as $100 an hour.

 

If you opt to do some of the moving yourself, remember basic safe lifting guidelines. According to OSHA, remember to keep a correct neutral posture where the body is aligned and balanced, with your head kept upright and the spine bent no more than 20 degrees while lifting with your legs. Your elbows should be kept at your sides and your palms should be facing inward. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or utilize lifting equipment that will reduce the risk of injury.

 

Downsizing to a smaller home doesn’t have to be a difficult process. While it’s certainly time consuming, it can be the best option to help you enjoy your senior years in comfort and ease. With a little organization, finding the right place and the right help, hopefully you will be well on your way to a comfortable new living situation with everything you need!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Seniors