As many of us gear up for the holiday season, making our lists of gifts and planning our menus, others in our community need our help more than ever. This year feels different. Food bank lines are longer, and the need is greater.
I love good food, and no one should go to bed hungry. As we head into Thanksgiving, Nicole and I are rolling out our annual food drive through the Alameda County Food Bank. Many of us are so blessed, and this is a chance to stand behind our community and support those in need.
Here is the link to our food drive.
In addition, here are a few nonprofits I regularly support. I’m sharing them to illuminate causes close to my heart and to invite you to get involved if you feel inspired:
ROOF (Red Oak Opportunity Foundation)
For over 35 years, Red Oak agents have donated a portion of their commissions to ROOF. Along with Red Oak partners and vendors, it has granted more than $1,500,000 to East Bay charitable organizations that don’t receive significant funding from other sources. I donate with every transaction I close.
First Place for Youth
Supports transition-age youth by providing essential programs today while also shaping the laws and policies that impact future generations of foster youth.
The Second Opinion
Ensures that every cancer patient understands their disease and treatment options in their own language and at their level of understanding—offering clarity, compassion, and hope.
My mother died of breast cancer 15 years ago and I know so many people are touched by this disease.
Outdoor Afro
A national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people to our lands, water, and wildlife through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation — activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, gardening, skiing, and more.
As the weather cools, it’s a reminder of how fortunate many of us are. If you are able, please consider donating this holiday season; no amount is too small to make a difference.
November and December are often quieter months in real estate. Inventory is lower, and many buyers pause their home searches for the holidays. The homes that do remain on the market are often a mix of new listings and residual inventory that hasn’t yet sold — sometimes creating great opportunities for buyers who are ready and open-minded.
I think back to one of my happiest client stories this year. These buyers searched for a long time to find the right home that met their budget, location, and space needs. Over that period, they wrote on only three properties — a testament to my belief that you should only write on a home you’d be truly excited to win.
The home they ultimately purchased had been listed the year before at a higher price and came back to market at a lower one. It wasn’t staged, and there was no offer date advertised, so I encouraged my clients to act quickly. They wrote just over the asking price, and, to our surprise, the sellers only countered by $4,000. My clients accepted immediately.
Once we went pending, three other agents reached out to ask what we were in contract for, admitting they thought they had more time to act since the home had sat the previous year. It was a perfect example that real estate is about timing and readiness.
I recently visited my clients, and their home looks beautiful — they’re thrilled with their purchase. Stories like theirs remind me that great opportunities can appear when you stay engaged and move with confidence.
I’m beginning to take on new buyers and sellers for 2026 and would love to work with more people like you. If you have questions about the market or know someone looking for a Realtor with experience and a straightforward, no-pressure approach, I’m always happy to be a resource.
