THE COPLAND TEAM - Mel & Tiffany's Q&A

I noticed you posted this a bit ago without a response.  The question that all would love to know the answer to... When is the bottom of the market?The important question I have for you is why are you buying?  If you are planning to buy for an investment for you to live in than the time to buy is when you are ready.  The market will not change drastically in the next few months enough to effect a long term investment.  If you are planning to flip a home or turn it over in a short time now may not be the best time to purchase.  Another important question is have you purchased before?  There are great options out there for First Time Home Buyers.  If you would like further help please feel free to contact us.Good Luck in your search. Tiffany Copland The Copland TeamAlain Pinel Realtors

The best way to find a good agent in the area is to ask colleagues and friends for agents they trust.  Just as you would ask a friend to recommend a Doctor or Handyman.  People who have great relationships with their agents will remember them.  It is important to also shop around.  Make some listing appointments and ask agents to interview.  Most important is that you find an agent who you are comfortable with and who has your homes best interest in mind. The busiest agents are not always the best bet.  Make sure you find and agent who is dedicated and knows your neighborhood.  Some agents now are very busy because they have tons of bank foreclosure listings. Sometimes they are very new agents and have jumped into the REO market.  They may not be what you need to best market your home.  Good Luck and I can always refer you an agent to interview as well. Tiffany CoplandThe Copland Team

People often think that homes on steep slopes are less safe than those on a flat lot. However, they are just as safe and have more involved in the engineering than a home on a flat lot.The foundation for homes on a sloped lot is a Pier and Grade Beam Foundation. The home is built on piers are drilled down in to the bedrock or to the depth to give the strongest hold. These calculations are made by an engineer based on the soil report of the property. The piers can be drilled close to 25 ft into the ground. Oakland's infrastructure is like that of any city with hills. There are areas that have had landslides but overall the hills are very safe and homes are built to be secure. I grew up in a home on a steep slop that my father built. It actually moved less in earthquakes than houses on flat lots. I hope this helps with your question. If you have any other questions please feel free to contact me directly at tiffany@CoplandTeam.comBest,Tiffany