Homes & Happenings

in Marin County

Spring has arrived in the Marin real estate market, and we're seeing an exciting surge in activity! While the rain might have slowed us down a bit, the market is now buzzing with homes selling quickly, some even before hitting the MLS. I'm busy getting my own listings ready for the spring season, and I'm also on the lookout for off-market opportunities for my eager buyers.

With recent stock market fluctuations, I’m hearing mixed views. Some folks are keen to dive into real estate, while others are feeling a bit cautious. However, if my 30 years in the business have taught me anything, it's that Marin County real estate is always on the rise. Inventory remains low, and the market consistently trends upward, with no new land available for development.

If you're contemplating your real estate goals and want to chat, feel free to reach out. I'd be delighted to share my experience and assist you in making informed decisions.

Market activity and demand – as defined by new listings coming on market, listings going into contract, speed of sale and overbidding – rose across the board. In particular, the inventory of homes for sale surged much higher on a year-over-year basis, a substantial change in market dynamics: It appears that the “mortgage lock-in” effect is continuing to fade as prospective home sellers decide to move forward with life plans.

As of the first week of March, the latest inflation reading ticked up for the 4th month; the Fed kept its benchmark rate unchanged; interest rates fell for the 7th week; and stock markets saw 2 weeks of significant declines. National and international politics continue to be characterized by constant and unpredictable change, and enormous uncertainty. And consumer confidence in February dropped across all age, income and wealth groups as expectations for personal finances and both short-term and long-term economic conditions all declined (per the University of Michigan’s February “Surveys of Consumers”).

We are now moving into the spring selling season, typically the most heated of the year, and not unusually seeing the calendar year’s highest median home sales prices.

Remove and Replace

Invasives during March

Fire-smart Tips from the UC Master Gardeners

Invasive plants often increase fire risk due to their rapid growth, high density, and tendency to create excessive fuel for fire.

Zone 0 (0-5 feet from structures)

• Prioritize removing all vegetation from this zone to protect structures from fire

• Remove all invasive vines and climbing plants like ivy from building walls

• Consider installing metal edging to prevent invasive roots from spreading into this zone

• Regularly inspect for and remove any new invasive seedlings, especially after rain

  
  

Zone 1 (5-30 feet) & Zone 2 (30-100 feet)

• Remove invasive plants before they set seed and replace with California natives, pollinator plants, or low-water use plants

• Prioritize removing woody and dense invasives such as broom, bamboo, and pampas grass to reduce the amount of fuel available to fire

• Remove invasive vine growth from trees to help prevent fire reaching tree canopies

• When replacing invasives with new plants, use appropriate spacing based on the distance from any structures and the slope of the ground

• Cover bare soil with fire-smart mulch to prevent weeds and other opportunistic plants from establishing

• Continually monitor cleared areas for new growth

Visit UC Marin Master Gardeners for more useful tips.

Marin Water | Water Efficiency

Replace your lawn with climate-friendly plants to save water, cut costs, and enhance your landscape. Marin Water offers rebates to help—don’t miss this opportunity! 🌿💧

Update: Economic Indicator

Compass National Real Estate Insight: Stay ahead with expert trends and luxury market updates, keeping you informed on the latest in high-end real estate.

“If you are the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room.”

— Confucius

B.A.B.E. 'SPEAKEASY'

Word on the street: a party you can’t miss! 🎶✨ Radio Gatsby sets the vibe while the dance floor heats up at our secret speakeasy.

American Tulip Day

Tulip Day returns March 22, 2025! 🌷 Pick your own bouquet from 80,000+ tulips at Union Square, SF!

Spring Faire

Shop, create, and connect at the Spring Faire! 🌸 Enjoy a morning of laughter, creativity, and community in a vibrant seasonal celebration!

431 Wellesley Ave, Mill Valley

6 BD 4.5 BA 3,674 SF Price $3,695,000

A Custom-Built Masterpiece with Stunning Views

Perched in a prime location with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Mt. Tamalpais, this one-of-a-kind, custom-built family home has been thoughtfully remodeled and expanded with high-end finishes throughout.

Designed for both comfortable living and effortless entertaining, the home features a spacious and functional layout, including a chef’s kitchen that opens to the family room, four bedrooms on the upper level, and an additional en-suite bedroom on the main level.

A newly built separate room and bath, with a private entrance, provides flexibility for guests, an au pair, or a home office.

Situated on over half an acre of fully landscaped grounds with a level lawn, wraparound decks, and a patio, this home offers the perfect blend of elegance and functionality—all in an excellent commute location.

www.431wellesley.com

Coming Soon!

I am busy preparing homes for the Spring market. Here is a sneak peek to a couple of them...

117 Country Club, Mill Valley

Stunning designer showcase, this 5 bed home with views is an entertainers dream, with beautifully designed open floor plan, a dreamy eat in Chef’s kitchen with gas fireplace and sitting area, spacious living and dining and so much more..

35 Bernard St, Mill Valley

Remodeled 5-bed, 3.5-bath home in downtown Mill Valley with a chef’s kitchen, media room, Tesla solar, EV charger, metal roof, 2-car garage, and landscaped yard—close to top schools and parks.

Dowtown Mill Valley

Beautifully remodeled home with 4 beds plus office & studio, Chef's kitchen and walk out huge deck, in a magical & private setting with serene outlooks and walk to town & school location.

Insight Article

How could higher and new tariffs on imported goods from Canada, Mexico and China impact real estate? Here are some areas:

1. Rebuilding and renovating costs are likely to rise as lots of imported lumber, steel aluminum, etc are imported.

2. Appliances/HVAC systems. Many are made outside the USA or have many parts made outside of the US.

3. Transportation: most cars have components made outside the US. Many are made outside of the US, although many foreign brands are made in the US already.

4. Insurance: higher building costs = higher replacement costs. It's likely insurance companies will adjust premiums to account for this.

5. Food and beverages.....yes real estate agents eat! We import lots of food and packaging for food. And fertilizers for local food. More importantly, rising food costs translate to less disposable income for other goods which could impact GDP as consumer spending equates to around 65% of GDP.

6. According to the Peterson Institute for International Economics, the tariffs could cost the average US household $1,200 annually which could pressure corporations to raise wages accordingly to cover this thereby lowering profits.....and fuel inflation.....which could keep rates higher... unless we enter a recession. The lowest-income 20% of households could lower after-tax income by $170 while wealthier households could see an average of $3,280 less in a year.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Will all of this bring back more production of these goods to the US, the goal? Time will tell. (USA TODAY)

Looking for a primary residence, second home, or investment property outside of Marin? I am connected to some of the best agents in the country and would love to help you to find the right match and make an introduction for you!

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Sharon

Kramlich

415.609.4473

sharon.kramlich@compass.com

sharonkramlich.com

DRE 01184449