New Listing - 1917 6th Street, Sacramento, CA 95811

A truly rare opportunity to own a completely reimagined urban retreat just one block from Southside Park and moments from Downtown Sacramento, the State Capitol, Golden 1 Center, restaurants, nightlife, and the vibrant energy of the central city. This 3 bedroom + office, 3 bathroom, 1,620sf property underwent a comprehensive down-to-the-studs transformation in 2026, resulting in a virtually new home featuring new plumbing, electrical, roof, insulation, HVAC system, fire suppression sprinklers, flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, fixtures, and finishes throughout. The striking open-concept design is highlighted by full insulated dramatic vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, creating a sense of volume and architectural character rarely found in Midtown and Downtown properties. Expansive windows and multiple French doors flood the home with natural light, while the flow between living, dining, and kitchen spaces creates an ideal setting for entertaining and everyday living. At the heart of the home is an exceptional chef's kitchen featuring quartz countertops, a large center island, abundant cabinetry, designer tile backsplash, stylish lighting, and premium stainless steel appliances including an induction cooktop and double oven. The generous great room offers flexibility for gathering, dining, and relaxing, all beneath the stunning exposed truss ceiling system. The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes three bedrooms plus a flex /office space that could also be a 4th bedroom. The spacious primary suite features a walk-in closet and a luxurious spa-inspired bathroom with dual vanities and an oversized walk-in shower with dual shower heads. A second large bedroom enjoys its own ensuite bath with an enviable tub/shower. The flex/office space is served by a convenient Jack-and-Jill style bathroom accessible from both the office and hallway. Outside, enjoy al fresco relaxation from a charming front patio surrounded by mature fruit trees, a lovely brick enclosure, and established landscaping, creating a private outdoor oasis in the heart of the city. Combining modern construction, sophisticated design, and an unbeatable location adjacent to Southside Park and Sacramento's urban core, 1917 6th Street offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to enjoy the best of city living in a virtually brand-new home. Don't wait! For more information, photos, video, and a 3D virtual tour, please visit 1917 6th Street, Sacramento, CA 95811.

Don't Overlook Fixer-Uppers: Renovation Financing Can Open More Doors!

I recently listed a fixer property here in Sacramento that will be on the market soon, and it reminded me of one of the biggest misconceptions I hear from homebuyers: 

"I love the house, but I don't have the cash to renovate it."

The good news? You may not need to. Many buyers assume fixer homes are only for investors or cash buyers with large renovation budgets. In reality, there are financing programs specifically designed to help owner-occupants purchase a home **and** finance the improvements as part of their mortgage. 

Programs such as the FHA 203(k), FHA Limited (formerly known as the Streamline 203(k)), and conventional renovation loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac allow qualified buyers to finance both the purchase price and the renovation costs in one loan. Even better, these loans are typically based on the home's "after-repaired value" rather than its current condition. That means you may be able to buy a home that needs updating without having to come up with tens of thousands of dollars after closing. 

Whether the home needs a new kitchen, updated bathrooms, flooring, windows, plumbing, electrical work, roofing, dryrot repair, or other improvements, renovation financing can make those projects possible from day one. The renovation funds are held by the lender and released as the work is completed, allowing buyers to transform the home while building equity. 

There are also financing options for buyers who want to make a home more energy efficient. If a property needs a new HVAC system, upgraded insulation, energy-efficient windows or doors, or other qualifying improvements, an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) may also be an option. In some cases, these programs can even be layered together, allowing buyers to finance both the renovation and eligible energy-efficiency upgrades as part of their home purchase. 

An experienced renovation lender can help determine which combination of programs is available for your situation. 

In today's Sacramento market, that's an opportunity worth considering. Many buyers focus exclusively on turnkey homes, which often attract the most competition and command premium prices. Meanwhile, homes needing a little TLC may offer better value, fewer competing offers, and the chance to create a home that's customized to your tastes instead of paying extra for someone else's remodel. 

That's exactly why I encourage buyers not to dismiss fixer properties too quickly. The right financing can turn what initially looks like an overwhelming project into an affordable path toward homeownership. 

You don't need to be an investor, a contractor, or an all-cash buyer to purchase a fixer. If you've been searching for a home but feel priced out of the move-in-ready market, it may be time to expand your search. A fixer-upper paired with renovation financing could be the opportunity you've been waiting for. If you'd like to learn more about renovation loan programs I'd be happy to connect you with stellar local lenders who can help you navigate renovation financing and determine whether this approach is the right fit for your goals.

Just Listed - 7724 Spring Valley Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95610

This beautifully updated and meticulously maintained 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom, 1,138sf Citrus Heights home is ready for a new owner! Enter to find a light and bright, inviting floorplan that has been renovated with an eye for detail! You will love the smooth-textured walls, newer baseboards, modern lighting, stylish paint, and laminate flooring through the main living areas. The spacious living room serves as the heart of the home, highlighted by a custom accent wall with a built-in mantel and electric fireplace, recessed LED lighting, and updated ceiling fan. The dining area flows to the backyard. The kitchen has been tastefully modernized with painted cabinetry, new hardware, tile backsplash, updated faucet, USB charging outlet, and stainless appliances. A former coat closet has been converted into a pantry, providing additional storage space. Both bathrooms have been extensively updated with newer vanities, mirrors, lighting, faucets, plumbing fixtures, toilets, and fresh finishes throughout. Additional interior improvements include updated door hardware, outlet covers, dual pane windows, window coverings, and numerous thoughtful details that reflect the pride of ownership found throughout the home. Step outside and enjoy a backyard designed for relaxation and low-maintenance enjoyment. Recent improvements include updated fencing, refreshed landscaping, decorative gravel accents, newer sprinkers/irrigation, leveled and reseeded lawn areas, and multiple outdoor lighting upgrades. Whether you're hosting friends, gardening, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, the yard is ready to enjoy. Attached 2-car garage with sealed/painted floor, and added attic storage space. Extra wide driveway with expanded gravel side-yard parking area for extra space for additional vehicles, recreational toys, a trailer, small boat, work vehicle, or simply extra parking flexibility. This central location offers the perfect balance of quiet neighborhood living and convenient access to everything the region has to offer, just minutes from shopping, restaurants, parks, schools, and everyday conveniences along. Don't wait! Offered at $490,000. For more photos, detail, and a 3D virtual tour, please visit 7724 Spring Valley Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95610.

Is "House Hacking" a more affordable path to homeownership in Sacramento?

One of the most practical strategies I’m seeing more frequently in the Greater Sacramento real estate market is buyers purchasing a duplex, living in one unit, and renting out the other. Sometimes called “house hacking,” the concept is simple: the rental income from the second unit can help offset the monthly mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, and even some utility expenses. 

For many buyers in Sacramento, Arden, Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Orangevale, Rancho Cordova, and surrounding areas, this can completely change the math of homeownership. Instead of stretching every dollar toward a single-family home where the entire monthly payment comes out of pocket, duplex buyers may have a tenant contributing toward the property’s carrying costs each month. In some cases, that rental income can offset a substantial portion of the monthly expense. 

For example, if a duplex payment is $3,900 per month and the second unit rents for $2,000 per month, the owner is effectively not carrying the full payment themselves. 

Every situation is different, of course, but for many buyers this creates a level of financial breathing room that is hard to ignore. Another major advantage many people do not initially realize is financing. Traditionally, purchasing a true investment property often requires larger down payments, higher interest rates, and stricter lending standards...many non-owner-occupied investment property loans require 20% to 25% down or more. But when buyers purchase a duplex as their primary residence and occupy one of the units, they may qualify for owner-occupied financing instead. That can potentially mean: 

• Lower down payment options 
• More favorable interest rates 
• Lower monthly payments 

In other words, buyers can sometimes acquire a property with investment-style benefits of rental income, long-term appreciation potential, and multiple units without needing the large down payment typically associated with investment real estate. 

I’m also noticing that many duplex buyers today are not necessarily approaching it with a “real estate investor” mindset. They are teachers, nurses, office professionals, tradespeople, young families, or buyers simply trying to create a little more long-term financial stability. They want a place to live, but they also want their housing payment to work a little smarter for them. 

Of course, duplex ownership is not for everyone. You are still a property owner, and eventually there may be repairs, maintenance, tenant screening, or vacancy periods to navigate. But for the right buyer, the tradeoff can make a lot of financial sense, and especially in a higher-cost housing environment like California. Many buyers today are looking for flexibility, supplemental income opportunities, and ways to offset rising housing costs. Duplexes check a lot of those boxes. And while a duplex may not be someone’s forever home, it can absolutely be a stepping stone toward long-term wealth building and financial stability.

If you’ve ever been curious about whether buying a duplex in Sacramento could make sense for your situation, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to walk buyers through the numbers, financing considerations, rental market trends, and what to realistically expect from owner-occupied duplex living.

New Listing - 7136 Ryan Taylor Way, Citrus Heights, CA 95621

Adorable Citrus Heights former model home is ready for a new owner! Light, bright, and well laid out, this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1338sf home offers the kind of space and functionality that's easy to live in. You will love the separate living and family rooms, giving you flexibility for everyday living and entertaining, or a perfect space for a home office without sacrificing a bedroom. The kitchen opens to the family room and has a large pantry closet, maple cabinets, gas oven, and breakfast counter. The primary suite has a large walk-in closet, and lovely sliding doors to access the backyard. Ensuite primary bathroom with dual sinks and a stall shower. Well-sized hallway bedrooms, and an updated hallway bathroom. Out back, you'll find plenty of sunny space to garden, play, or relax. There's already a play structure, storage shed, and garden beds in place, along with a wide side yard that offers the potential for RV access or storage for your toys. 2-car attached garage has built-in cabinets, and extra wide driveway. Recent updates like new light fixtures and dual pane windows add to the overall comfort and efficiency. Tile roof, and a clear Section 1 pest report is already done for you! Located near the heart of Citrus Heights, this neighborhood is within close proximity to parks, schools, shopping, and everyday amenities, with easy access to main commuter routes. Don't wait! Offered at $514,950. For more photos, a 3D virtual tour, and detail please visit 7136 Ryan Taylor Way, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.

New Listing - 1605 Gingersnap Lane, Lincoln, CA 95648

Located in Sun City Lincoln Hills, this well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1539sf Pine Hill floorplan home offers a great layout, lots of natural light, and access to all the amenities this sought-after Del Webb 55+ community is known for. Out front, you'll find a lovely courtyard that creates a welcoming entry and is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee and newspaper. Inside, you're welcomed by a large tiled entry that opens to a bright, open living space with 9-foot ceilings throughout. The living room features a beautiful fireplace with built-in cabinets and plenty of room to relax or gather. The kitchen is open to both the dining area and living room, with an breakfast counter that works well for everyday living or entertaining. French doors from both the dining room and the primary bedroom lead out to the backyard. The outdoor space is nicely set up with artificial turf for easy maintenance and a large covered patio that's perfect for enjoying the outdoors year-round. The oversized 2.5-car garage includes a golf cart space with plug-in. You will love the 4.2 kW DC Solar array with 12 solar panels to help offset your energy utility costs! Pest inspection has already been completed, repaired, and cleared. All this with association golf course, community activity/classes/clubs calendar, restaurant, TWO fitness centers with indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, exercise areas, group exercise rooms, an upstairs walking track, pilates studio and more! Don't wait! Offered at $544,900. For more photos, video, and a 3D virtual tour visit 1605 Gingersnap Lane, Lincoln, CA 95648.

How much do you really need for a downpayment to purchase a home in the Sacramento area?

How much do you really need for a downpayment to purchase a home in the Sacramento area? It seems like I get this question a lot, so let’s clear this up right away because this is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear from buyers: You do NOT need 20% down to buy a home. 

I can’t tell you how many people wait years longer than they need to because they think that’s the rule. It’s not.

So…what do you actually need? It depends on the loan type, but here’s the practical real-world breakdown: 

• Conventional loans: as little as 3% to 5% down 
• FHA loans: typically 3.5% down 
• VA loans (if eligible): 0% down 
• Down payment assistance programs: In some cases, this can significantly reduce what you need out of pocket 

For example, if you are purchasing a $500,000 home: 

• 3% down = $15,000 
• 3.5% down = $17,500
• 5% down = $25,000 
• 20% down = $100,000 

That’s a big difference and for most buyers! These lower downpayment amounts are often far more realistic options for buyers than saving 20%. And Downpayments could come from places like your savings, a gift from a family member, a retirement account, or a special downpayment assistance program.

Let’s talk about down payment assistance...this is something a lot of buyers either don’t know about or assume they won’t qualify for. There are state and local programs that can help cover part of your down payment and/or closing costs. Some are structured as deferred loans, some as grants, and many are designed specifically for first-time buyers. Not everyone will qualify, and there are income limits and guidelines but it’s absolutely worth exploring. I’ve had clients who were able to get into a home much sooner because of these programs. The California Association of Realtors has a super handy downpayment assistance locator tool that you can check to see if you qualify for any programs: CLICK HERE.

What other costs should you plan for? The downpayment is just one piece. You’ll also want to budget for: 

• Transaction costs: these are negotiable, and usually in the neighborhood of 2% - 3% of the purchase price;
• Inspections: I usually recommend things like a whole house inspection, termite inspection, HVAC inspection, roof inspection, and sewer camera inspection as a baseline -- and others may be necessary depending on the property. You will want to budget $1000 - $2000 to thoroughly inspect a home;
• Appraisal: Your lender will order this, and I see these range from $700 - $1000...this is commonly lumped into your closing costs

The good news: in some situations, we can negotiate with the property seller to help offset closing costs to defray your out of pocket expenses. 

The question you should really be asking instead of “How do I get to 20% down?” is: “What’s the smartest way for me to get into a home based on my financial situation?” Because the answer is different for everyone. Some buyers should put more down. Some are better off putting less down and keeping cash on hand. Some qualify for assistance programs they didn’t even realize were available. 

So if you’re waiting because you think you don’t have enough saved yet, reach out -- it’s worth having a conversation and a real look at your numbers and your options. You might be closer than you think.

New Listing - 4744 Greenholme Drive - Unit 4, Sacramento, CA 95842

Updated and move-in ready 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 924sf Sacramento condo with extensive improvements throughout. Why rent when you can own? You will love the light and bright layout, brand new luxury vinyl plank flooring and new baseboards, and freshly painted interior. The updated kitchen features oak cabinets, with granite counters, brand new dishwasher, and a brand new range hood. Two large bedrooms, one with a huge walk-in closet. Updated bathroom has granite counters, dual sinks with new faucets, new toilet, new shower head, and a tub/shower combo. Updated recessed lighting throughout. Additional improvements include dual pane windows and window screens, brand new front door and front screen door. Central heat & air, attached garage space, and a convenient location close to freeway access, transit, and shopping. Don't wait! HOA dues $387/mo. Offered at $175,000. For more photos and information, please visit 4744 Greenholme Drive - Unit 4, Sacramento, CA 95842.