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Category Archives: Adding Value – Gardening/Landscaping/Renovations


Value equals location plus much more

By Don Dunning | October 9, 2015

“The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything.”
– Warren Buffett

As a buyer, it is hard to say “no” in a seller’s market where it appears that waiting will cost you a lot because prices are rapidly rising. When working with buyers, I suggest they avoid properties with problems that diminish value. Although location is the key determinant of value, the pressure of the market allows too many other considerations to be brushed aside by buyers.

The following are some concerns that either cannot be rectified, or, even if they can, the cost would likely not make sense.

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Make home security a priority

By Don Dunning | August 21, 2015

Home burglaries are a serious problem in the Bay Area. Despite that, too many homeowners do not give much thought to securing their property against break-ins. Folks often become motivated to improve the situation only after they have been burglarized. There are a number of measures you can take now to discourage crooks.

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Nine things to do in your newly purchased home

By Don Dunning | May 22, 2015

Navigating a home purchase and escrow can be draining. And then there is the hassle of moving. Once you are in the home, it seems like a perfect time to kick back and chill. Doing so, however, without working on some important items, can later create serious problems you might have been able to avoid. Health, safety and security should be addressed first.

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Broken fridge nightmare in remodeled kitchen

By Don Dunning | March 29, 2015

“Things never go the way you expect them to. That’s both the joy and frustration in life.”
– Michael Stuhlbarg

It began when I went to the freezer for a yogurt pop and found it as a liquid mess. Other foods were partially defrosted. Checking the refrigerator section confirmed we were in big trouble.

We quickly found a reliable appliance repairman who substantiated that it was time to replace our 10-year-old refrigerator. What sounded like a simple solution soon turned into a series of unforeseen, frustrating events.

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Beware of Blackwood Acacias

By Don Dunning | January 26, 2010

Acacia melanoxylon, also known as Australian or Tasmanian Blackwood, is a common tree in the East Bay. Arborists consider it a noxious weed because of its invasive nature. Formerly used to line streets in cities and towns, its use has diminished because it can damage pavement and underground pipes, such as sewer lines. The Blackwood […]

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Trees belong in your buying equation

By Don Dunning | September 2, 2009

Understandably, most home buyers are happy to be surrounded by trees, one of nature’s greatest gifts. They are magnificent, awe-inspiring creations. Oak, madrone, sycamore and redwood are all incredible. Some, like cedar, can be clipped low to form a hedge as a lovely border. Fruit trees furnish us healthful treats. In our area these include plum, pear, apple, lemon, lime and fig, to name a few.

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Photography as a Marketing Tool

By Don Dunning | March 22, 2009

I’ve been into photography for many years. One of the things I enjoy about my hobby is how photos provide a different perspective. I get to see things I may otherwise have missed. An example is how, with macro photography, I experience the face of a spider or the inner beauty of a rose. Pictures […]

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New “Green” Web Site

By Don Dunning | November 14, 2008

The California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) has just added a new information service to its Web site sharing great tips and ideas on how to green your home, office and life. “At Home with Green”™ includes an index of green resources, terminology and principles. It also offers information on buying a green home, greening an […]

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Watch Out for foreclosure Scams

By Don Dunning | November 6, 2008

Yesterday, I received a call from a fellow asking for advice for his friend. He said she was having mortgage payment problems and wanted to know who she should call to help her deal with her lender. Given her situation, I warned him how, in southern California, some people are getting ripped off by shysters […]

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Cocoa hulls as mulch?

By Don Dunning | September 13, 2008

The other day, as I stood at the front door of my new listing, I noticed the delicious smell of chocolate. As a lover of the sweet stuff, I found the scent both pleasant and puzzling. Where was that unmistakable scent coming from? As I was outside taking flyer and Web photos of the house, […]

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