Joan Dark

Joan Dark is an experienced, successful realtor specializing in East Bay communities including Oakland, Piedmont, Berkeley, San Leandro, Castro Valley, El Cerrito, and Richmond.  She is a native of Wisconsin, a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Mills College. Received a Master of Arts degree from Holy Names University.

Prior to beginning her career in real estate, Joan taught in the Peralta College system and worked at the State Department of Rehabilitation. She was the founding executive director of Oakland Youthworks, a youth employment agency in downtown Oakland, and later served on the Board of Directors.

Joan has written articles on real estate, local history, and community issues for the Montclarion, and sung with the Oakland Symphony Chorus, San Francisco Bay Revels, a Gregorian Chant choir, and with Soli Deo Gloria Chorus specializing in Baroque music..

An alumnae of Mills College, Joan was on the committee to raise funds for the restoration of the earthquake-damaged Mills Hall and served on the Alumnae Board of Governors.

Joan believes passionately in Oakland architectural preservation. She's a former board member of Oakland Heritage Alliance. 

She was a founding member of the Piedmont Avenue Neighborhood School Association, helped fund school projects with over $10,000 in donations from each sale in the neighborhood.

She has many loyal clients who appreciate her expertise and commitment to service:

"Absolutely top notch. Joan´s insight, skill, and candor helped us find our Oakland home. We love it!" Drs. Schiff

"Joan has integrity, fine diplomatic skills, and a piquant sense of humor; she helped sell our small house and helped us buy a new one. We have recommended her to many friends." Byles

"Joan has sold several homes for us, including a 4plex needing many repairs. We were out of the country. When we ran into difficulties, Joan was always there to advise She is GREAT. Her deep knowledge of the business, and calm nature led to successful sales including one quite difficult transaction.

" M/M Krantz

"Joan believes that single women should own their own homes. She was  amazing, helping me find my perfect little Craftsman, giving me advice about renovating/repairing appropriately. To my amazement I received an award from Oakland Heritage Alliance for preservation of a historic home. I love my Oakland neighborhood and will always be grateful to Joan." L. Smith
 
Joan contributed a portion of each commission to Piedmont Avenue School, the Piedmont Avenue Library, or Mills College.