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Your 2020 Fall Activity Guide is Here!

September 18, 2020 by cdiez 1 Comment

Get ready for sweater weather, football games, and of course, Pumpkin Spice Lattes…because fall officially kicks off next Tuesday, September 22nd! While we are unable to participate in many of the planned indoor events and activities due to Covid, there are still plenty of outdoor recreational activities and “social-distance” approved events that pay tribute to this beautiful season.

In need of some inspiration? Check out this month’s newsletter for some fun and festive ways to celebrate the fall season in and around the Sacramento area.

The time is ripe for a perfect fall outing! Pay a visit to one of these Apple picking locations. Before planning your visit, please review the safety measures that these Apple Hill Growers are taking to keep both visitors and workers safe.

Denver Dan’s Apple Patch

Goodness Orchard

Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch

24 Carrot Farm

While you’re in the area, you might want to check out one (or more) of Apple Hill’s “must visit” locations:

Johnny Appleseed Day: Celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day with special events and activities on Sunday, September 20^th at these participating locations.

High Hill Ranch: This popular location has a wide array of activities including a Craft Fair, fishing, pumpkin patch, wine tasting, an apple bar, bake shop and much more!

Rainbow Orchards: This location is home to world-famous hot apple cider donuts! Check out some of their other delicious desserts and pies here and their special events here.

North Canyon Cider Co: As their name suggests, this location is known for its award-winning hard cider! They are open weekends now through mid-November.

Fudge Factory Farm: Any chocolate lovers out there? Choose from an impressive selection of handmade fudge, and 15+ types of candy coated apples, homemade jams, fresh baked pies and more! Want to skip the line? Pre-order here.

Ponderosa Ridge Bed and Breakfast: Wanna get away? Wake up to beautiful views and three acres of apples that only guests can pick!

Go wine tasting “with a view” at one or more of the below vineyards where you can enjoy live music and delicious wine and food pairings. Please note that reservations are highly encouraged during this time. Be sure to check each website to reserve your table ahead of time.

Rancho Roble Vineyards

Scribner Bend Vineyards

Rucksack Cellars

Wise Villa Winery

Starfield Vineyards

Wofford Acres Vineyards

Boeger Winery

Cante Ao Vinho

Savor the fall season by supporting some of our local restaurants in the Sacramento area and beyond! Whether you are looking for a beautiful outdoor setting or fall-inspired dishes, these restaurants (categorized by cuisine type) won’t disappoint!

Italian Cuisine:

Obo’ Italian Table & Bar

Vaiano Trattoria

Visconti’s Ristorante

French Cuisine/Wine Bars:

Mexican/Spanish Cuisine:

American/California-Inspired Cuisine:

Wildwood

Delta King – Pilothouse Restaurant

Asian-Inspired Cuisine:

If you are not comfortable dining in at this time, you can still support our local restaurants and businesses by placing an order to go or by using a delivery app including Postmates and DoorDash.

What better way to enjoy the fall weather than with an outdoor picnic? Below are some of my favorite fall picnic spots in Sacramento:

Ancil Hoffman Park

McKinley Park

William Land Regional Park

Natomas Rose Garden

Curtis Park

Jensen Botanical Gardens

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

6 Best Tutorials to Make DIY Upgrades to Your Home During the Quarantine

May 4, 2020 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Quarantine has certainly added a lot of family time together during these last few months. I am not Mr. DIY but we have been working on backyard projects and doing some painting on the inside. Jaymi Naciri has recommended six tutorials to make some upgrades while we are sheltering at home.

We never have enough time to work on our home. Scratch that—we never HAD time to work on our home. Now that most of us can’t leave our abode, we have nothing but time!

Turn that time into action by tackling some of those home improvement projects you’ve been thinking about. You might not have expert-level renovation skills now, but you’d be amazed at what you can learn from the comfort of your couch. We’ve rounded up some great tutorials to help turn you into a DIY master.

Install a Ring Doorbell

It’s a good time to focus on tech and security for your home. If you’re afraid of launching into this type of project, you don’t need to be. Installing a Ring doorbell is a relatively easy DIY undertaking. This tutorial from SafeWise is a good introduction to the world of modern technology upgrades, and the finished product can be up and running in less an hour.

Lay down luxury vinyl tile

Luxury vinyl style is a great alternative to pricier floor options like hardwood and can mimic the look at a lower cost and with greater durability. The floors are nearly indestructible and great for kids and pets. It’s also super easy to install, and, because it’s a floating floor, it can go right over other flooring, so you don’t need to do any demo. This is a great tutorial for beginners and this is another great site for some tips that will help make the process go smoothly.

Make a concrete countertop—in less than an hour!

If you’ve watched Fixer Upper and, like us, drooled at the custom concrete countertops Chip and Joanna love to put in clients’ homes, you’re not alone. But this is typically a tricky and time-consuming project. This tutorial can show you how to create a concrete countertop in less than an hour. It might not be gourmet kitchen-worthy, but it could be the answer to your outdoor kitchen needs! There have already been more than 3.6 million views of this video!

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The One Change You Should Make to Your Home in 2020

January 13, 2020 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Another new year has come. I remember when we went from 1999 to 2000 and everyone was wondering what would still be working at midnight and would our computer clocks be messed up.

Here we are in 2020 and Jaymi Naciri has a few good ideas on changes in 2020 to keep our homes fresh.

Splash a new color up on the walls. Redo your floors. Buy a new couch. They might be on the long list of things you’d like to do to your house in 2020. But you know what should be at the top of that list? Buying new plants.

So key are plants to the overall look and feel of the home that they made Elle Decor’s list of 2020 design trends. But we’re not talking about those faux, plasticky plants. It’s time for the real stuff.

“Going green with nice, real indoor plants helps give personality and another layer to a space,” Linda Hayslett of L.H. Designs, told them. “For a while, it seemed like everyone was going faux. But these days, it’s all real, all the time. “I can always spot a faux plant in a design. It may be great initially, but the character of a plant comes from how it organically grows. And faux plants will always remain the same and eventually get dusty.”

We could build a “best of” list based on popularity or pretty factor or 3,700 other categories, but, like anything else, it’s best to split the list into individual categories. Here, then, is our take on the best plants to incorporate now.

Most low maintenance

Many of us avoid having real plants because we lack a green thumb (guilty!). But there are some great options that take little effort to stay alive and look great. “Don’t be fooled by the beauty of the Chinese evergreen—beyond its handsome exterior is one tough plant,” said Real Simple.

“Justin Hancock, a horticulturist at Costa Farms, explains that this forgiving houseplant is great during the wintertime because it ‘doesn’t mind low light or inconsistent watering, as long as it doesn’t stay wet for extended periods.’ Its broad, decorative leaves are woven with gorgeous patterns in colors that come in a range of glossy greens, silvers, grays, and cream. Even the least experienced gardener can successfully grow the Chinese evergreen thanks to its hardiness. Cast aside any self-doubt, as Hancock reassures, ‘this air-purifying houseplant powers through the winter season and looks fresh and green all year.’”

The ZZ Plant is another great choice because it is “virtually indestructible.” In fact, “the zz plant will often do better if you leave it alone,” they said.

Best for your health

There is evidence that plants are good for you in a variety of ways, but one of the most potent is their effect on air quality. They can help counteract the effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and indoor air pollution. Spider plants are “among the easiest air-purifying indoor plants to grow,” said Greatist. Spider plants are also super fast-growing, so you can start with a small plant and watch it flourish, or even spin-off “spiderettes” to spread throughout your home.

Tallest growing

The ficus is another air purifying plant and a good choice if you’re looking for something that can grow large. An indoor ficus can get as tall as 10 feet and is another low-maintenance option.

Easiest herb garden starter

An indoor herb garden is easier to achieve than you may think, especially when you start with something simple like basil. “A critical herb for cuisines around the world and a favorite pairing for tomatoes, basil is easy to grow indoors,” said Gardeners.com. “Pinch off individual leaves and add to salads, sandwiches, and sauce. Make your own pesto. Plant seeds or purchase small plants and pot them in rich, organic potting soil. Basil loves heat and bright light, so give it a southern or western window or use a grow light. Avoid cool, drafty spots, especially in the winter.”

Most fragrant

Make your place smell sweet, and look beautiful, with Azores Jasmine. “For intense fragrance, grow this jasmine,” said DIY Network. “It typically flowers spring through fall, but tosses open blooms in winter, too, if growing conditions provide warmth and sun. Give it a spot near a southern-facing window. The perfume is similar to gardenia. Plants may be slow to bloom the first year. Just wait—the flower show kicks into gear as plants age.”

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SIT… STAY… OR PLAY THIS LABOR DAY WEEKEND!

August 30, 2019 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Labor Day Weekend is just around the corner! That’s why this month’s newsletter is dedicated to weekend events, getaways, and local happenings in and around Northern California. So whether you feel like kicking back and relaxing at home or treating yourself to an epic day trip with family and friends, we have some fun ideas on how you can “live your best life” this Labor Day Weekend!

You don’t have to leave town to enjoy the weekend… Below are some fun ways to kick-off Labor Day Weekend and the entire month of September in and around the Sacramento area!

Sacramento Events:
Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For Matches
Sacramento River Cats Schedule: Click Here For Remaining Games
Now through September 19 (every Thursday): Concert Series @ El Dorado Hills Town Center
August 30 & 31: Rythmn & Blues Festival @ River Park
August 30: Hot Summer Night Concert: Kickoff to Farm and Fork Uncorked
August 31 through September 2: 29th Annual Chalk It Up Festival @ Fremont Park
August 31 (& select days in September): Farm to Fork UNCORKED 2019 @ Old Sugar Mill
September 7: Dave Matthews Band @ Golden 1
September 8 through 14: Grandparents Week @ Fairytale Town
September 11 (and select Wednesday Nights): Barn Flix: Free Outdoor Movies @ Drake’s: The Barn
September 12: Sacramento Burger Battle 2019
September 12: Mexican Independence Day Concert Celebration @ Sac State
September 14: Gather: Movies @ The Fort
September 14: The Pepper & Hot Sauce Expo in Auburn
September 14: Wild Affair @ The Sacramento Zoo
September 15: Crafts & Drafts @ Drakes: The Barn
September 17: John Mayer @ Golden 1
September 19-29: Farm-to-Fork Festival
September 19: Legends of Wine @ State Capitol
September 19: Post Malone @ Golden 1
September 21: Great American River Cleanup
September 21: 14th Annual Fair Oaks Chicken Festival
September 21: Deaf Awareness Day @ Sacramento Zoo
September 21: Sacramento Film & Music Festival @ Crest Theatre
September 21: California Brewer’s Festival @ Discovery Park
September 28 & 29: Fall Festival @ El Dorado Hill Town Center

Wanna get away? This Labor Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity to venture out and take a fun day (or weekend) trip. The great thing about Sacramento is its close proximity to places including San Francisco, Lake Tahoe and the Napa Valley Wine Region. So if you’ve found yourself daydreaming about getting away, consider escaping the heat and treating yourself to an exciting outing!

Apple Hill: Apple Hill is officially open for business! Founded in 1964 with just 16 apple ranches, Apple Hill has grown to include over 50 unique fruit and veggie farms, wineries, B&Bs, flower gardens, Christmas tree farms, and even a day spa. Get your first taste of fall by relaxing at Ponderosa Bed & Breakfast and going apple picking, visiting High Hill Ranch for fishing, pony rides and a delicious slice of pie, or grabbing an award-winning hard cider atNorth Canyon Cider Company. Check out the remaining Apple Hill destinations here!
Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe is the perfect escape from the summer heat with its wide array of recreational activities including boating, water sports and hiking in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. They also have fantastic restaurants, concert venues, and shopping! Take a look at some of the local events taking place this weekend by checking out their “Labor Day Lake Tahoe Guide”.
Napa Valley: What better way to celebrate the long weekend than by taking a trip to Napa and enjoying a nice glass of wine, exceptional cuisine and mesmerizing views of vineyards…because “wine not”? Take a ride on the Napa Valley wine train and soak in breathtaking landscapes, soar above the clouds in a hot air balloon, enjoy a culinary experience at one of their many award-winning restaurants or visit one of their 400+ wineries. Click here for a list of weekend events and here for lodging accommodations.
San Francisco: San Francisco is chock-full of events this weekend! Enjoy a performance of Beach Blanket Babylon (tickets are limited), watch both the SF Giants & the Oakland A’s in action (snag your tickets here), visit one of several museum exhibits, or head across the bay to the Sausalito Arts Festival. Also, make sure to check out the free walking tours offered every day this weekend and this list of free activities and things to do in and around San Francisco.

Summer isn’t over just yet…and this weekend is the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and cook up some summer favorites! So savor the end of summer by trying one of these classics to make this your best cookout yet.

1. Labor Day Burger: Specifically named “The Labor Day Burger”, this mouth-watering burger is packed with extra flavor and punch! A juicy patty, crispy bacon, avocado, pepper flakes, and melted cheddar cheese all come together to create this delicious main. Get the recipe here.
Goat Cheese & Cherry Caprese: Make your summer plate a little lighter and more colorful with this gorgeous and easy to assemble salad filled with juicy cherries, heirloom tomatoes, and fresh goat cheese. Learn how to make it here.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries: A burger is not complete without some crispy fries to accompany the meal. Up your fry game with these unbelievably crispy low carb zucchini fries! Try out the recipe here.
Ice Cream S’mores: Believe us when we say this recipe will have you asking for “s’more”… Putting its own unique twist on traditional s’mores, this recipe adds a little something extra with melted chocolate and ice cream creating a cookie-like s’more. Get the recipe here.

Do you have any favorite things to do or places to see on Labor Day Weekend? Let us know in the comments section below!

Are you a Renter? It May be Time to Own Your Home.

August 15, 2019 by cdiez Leave a Comment

In the Sacramento Bee, Vincent Moleski covers in detail rental costs across Sacramento and surrounding areas. I know for myself when I rented, I would check to see what my rent could buy me as far as getting a home and having a mortgage. If you have not checked lately, it may be that time. Read on as rent prices escalate depending on area.

Rents in Sacramento grew moderately in the past year, outpacing national trends with a year-over-year growth rate of 4.1 percent and a month-over-month growth rate of two-tenths of a percent, bringing the city’s average rent to $1,401, according to RentCafe’s most recent monthly report.

RentCafe, an online real estate service and apartment listing marketplace, analyzed nationwide housing data from the month of July using the Yardi Matrix and found that average rents in Sacramento grew faster in the last year than the U.S. average, although rent in the California capital is still cheaper.

Nationwide, the average monthly cost of rent was $1,469 as of July, an increase of 3.4 percent in the last year — a bit under Sacramento’s growth rate — and 0.2 percent in the last month, which matched Sacramento’s month-over-month growth rate, according to the report.

Some pricey Sacramento suburbs saw sharp rent increases in the last month, such as Folsom — which saw the sharpest monthly price spike in the area — where the average monthly rent of $1,873 increased by 1.5 percent, Rocklin, where the average monthly rent of $1,718 increased by 1.2 percent and Roseville, where the average monthly rent of $1,790 increased by 0.9 percent, according to RentCafe.

Elk Grove’s rent costs averaged $1,753 and grew a full percentage point in the past month, while Rancho Cordova’s rent costs averaged $1,396 and grew 0.6 percent in the past month, according to the report.

Other suburbs remained relatively affordable. Rents in Carmichael average $1,205 and grew by 0.5 percent in the last month, while rents in Citrus Heights average $1,342 and grew by 0.2 percent in the last month and rents in Fair Oaks average $1,440 and grew 0.3 percent in the last month, according to RentCafe.

Davis is the most expensive place in the state to rent in, according to RentCafe, and although housing costs increased by just $2 in the past month, the average monthly rent in the Yolo County city is $2,169 — though that still beats out Bay Area prices.

San Francisco, one of the most expensive cities in the country, has an average monthly rent of $3,706, an increase of fourth-tenths of a percent from last month, while in San Jose renters can expect to pay $2,792 per month, according to the report. The only place more expensive than San Francisco is Manhattan, where renters pay $4,222 monthly on average.

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Finding Down Payment Money for Your Home

August 6, 2019 by cdiez Leave a Comment

For my family, down payment and closing costs were the toughest part of owning our next home. Making the mortgage payment was not an issue. Having the money to get started and be able to look for homes with confidence and loan in hand were a challenge. We found our help through family. That was a good day.

David Reed helps us out with more ways to find a down payment for your home. It may be time for you to stop renting. Take a read and see.

One of the biggest challenges, if not the biggest challenge, is coming up with the money for a down payment on a home. Even if someone is taking advantage of the new conventional 3.0 percent down program or the FHA mortgage, most every loan requires some sort of a down payment. While 3.0 percent doesn’t sound like a whole lot, if you’re buying your first home it usually is. On a $250,000 home, that comes out to $7,500. That’s not even mentioning closing costs. But there are sources for down payment funds that might sometimes be overlooked.

The Bank.

Okay, this is the obvious source. From a checking or a savings account, accessing readily available cash from a bank account is the most common. Consumers can save up a little each month until the minimum amount of funds needed have accrued. The lender will ask for copies of the most recent bank statements showing available funds as well as documenting the source of those funds. Most often the deposits are from an employer via direct deposit. Self-employed borrowers who do not receive a regular paycheck on the 1st and 15th will be asked to provide business bank statements as well.

A Gift.

There are those fortunate few who do receive a financial gift from a family member. Gift funds must also be tracked to make sure the funds are coming from an acceptable source. Gift funds can come from a family member, relative, or someone in a committed relationship. Lenders want to make sure the gift funds aren’t a loan that must be paid back at some point in the future. There needs to be a signed “gift letter” included with the loan file stating the amount of the gift, the donor’s name and where the funds are coming from. Lenders won’t ask for bank statements from the donor but do want to know the funds came from an account in the donor’s name.

A Retirement Account.

If someone has a retirement account with an employer such as a 401(k), that person can take out a loan against the fund. This is allowable per lending guidelines but is also subject to the employer’s approval. Most retirement funds allow for someone to borrow up to one-half of the employee’s vested balance in the account. With an IRA, first time buyers can withdraw up to $10,000 without penalty. The withdrawal will still be subject to any income tax due.

An Appraisable Asset.

If someone owns something that can be appraised by an independent third party, the proceeds when selling that asset are an acceptable source. Selling an automobile is acceptable, for instance, because it has an appraised value. Even a highly prized baseball card is an appraisable asset. It’s important to document the transaction from the initial sale to the deposit in the account.

A Down Payment Assistance Program.

Down payment assistance programs are typically overseen and/or issued by a county or state agency. Such programs typically require the borrowers’ gross monthly income to not exceed certain limits and are often available to first-time buyers. These programs can also be geographically targeted to help low to moderate-income communities flourish. Down payment assistance can come in the form of a grant, which means there is no repayment required or a loan which can be forgiven after living in the property for a certain period of time, typically three years or more.

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