Summer is almost over, which means the temperatures are about to cool off. And while there’s no guarantee, it looks like the housing market may cool along with it—at least slightly.

According to a recent article from realtor.com, many experts expect that, while the fall buying season will be competitive, it won’t be quite as frenzied as the spring or summer.

One indicator supporting that projection is the pace of price growth. According to the article, the national median home price hit $385,000 the week ending August 14 (the highest on record). That price represented an 8.2 percent increase year over year—a definite increase in price, but significantly less than the 17.2 percent increase from April 2020 to April 2021. Inventory is also starting to increase (according to data from the National Association of REALTORS®,1.32 million homes were available for sale in July 2021—a 7.3 increase from June)—and the more inventory is available in the fall, the easier the home search process will be for buyers.

According to the latest available stats from the Sacramento Association of Realtors, the active listing inventory increased 23.5 percent from June to July. The median sales price decreased 1.9 percent from $520,000 to $510,000. This figure is up 20.6 percent from July 2020 ($422,745).

So, what does this mean for you? There’s no denying that fall is shaping up to be a competitive season for real estate—but with slowing price growth and increasing inventory, it could prove to be less competitive than it has been for quite a while.

Summer may be winding down but there’s still lots in store for residents and visitors alike! Soak in the last of summer with an exciting lineup of concerts, food festivals, River Cats games, airshows, and more. This month, we also explore the current real estate market where things are (finally!) starting to look up for buyers. Last but certainly not least, we’re sharing 2021’s top fall decor trends to get your home ready for the new season…because it’s never too early to stock up on seasonal candles and cozy blankets right? Read on for the full scoop.

Click on the below links to see what local events are taking place now through the end of September!

Sacramento:

1. River Cats Schedule
2. Sac Republic FC Schedule
3. August 20th (And Select Days): Live Music at Crawdads on the River
4. Now-September 31st: Front Street Water Carousel & Waterfront Wheel in Old Sacramento
5. Select Weekends (Friday-Sunday): Old Sacramento Underground & Time Travel Tours
6. August 27th: Tahoe Park Food Trucks 
7. August 28th: 22nd Annual Race for the Arts 5K, Kids Fun Run & Arts Fest
8. September 5th: Chalk it Up 2021
9. September 9th-18th: Farm to Fork Festival (In Person)
10. September 9th: Legends of Wine
11. September 10th: Joe Rogan @ Golden1 Center
12. September 11th-12th: Sacramento Grilled Cheese Festival
13. September 11th (Every Second Saturday): Dance on the Edge @ Old Sacramento Waterfront
14. September 11th: Alejandro Fernandez @ Golden1 Center
15. September 12th: Tower Bridge Dinner 2021
16. September 18th: Country in the Park 2021
17. September 18th-19th: 2021 Crawfish & Catfish Festival 
18. September 24th: Tahoe Park Food Trucks
19. September 24th-26th: California Capital Airshow
20. September 29th: Gold Over America Tour: Starring Simone Biles

Carmichael:

1. Every Sunday: Carmichael Farmers’ Market
2. Every Sunday: Carmichael Cars and Coffee
3. August 21st & 28th: Concerts in the Park
4. September 25th: Founders Day

 

Fair Oaks:

1. August 26th & September 30th: Concerts in the Park
2. August 27th: Comedy Under the Stars
3. August 28th: Theatre Under the Stars

 

Rancho Cordova/Gold River:

1. Every Saturday: Sunrise Light Rail Station Farmers Market
2. August 18th (And Select Days):  At at City Hall: Abstraction
3. August 20th (And Select Days): Movies at the MACC
4. August 20th (And Select Days): Friday Night Concerts

 

Folsom:

1. August 19th & 26th: Twilight Concert Series in Historic Folsom
2. Every Saturday: Cars and Coffee Show at Folsom Palladio
3. August 21st: Health & Wellness Fair
4. August 27th: Rick Esterling Piano & Vocals
5. September 2nd: Ryan Hernandez & Band 
6. September 17th-18th: American Pops Social
7. September 19th: 2021 Peddler’s Fair
8. September 25th: 5th Anniversary Jazz Celebration
9. September 26th: The Wedding Expo Experience

 

El Dorado Hills:

1. Every Sunday: El Dorado Hills Certified Farmers’ Market
2. Every Thursday: Live on the Boulevard at El Dorado Hills Town Center
3. September 19th: Gold Country Run & Sport 5K

Elk Grove:

1. Every Thursday: Neighborhood Market
2. Every Saturday: Farmers Market
3. August 20th & 27th: Hot Summer Nights Concert Series
4. August 19th (And Select Days): Diversity Month
5. September 1st: Food Truck Mania
6. September 4th: Read to A Dog
7. September 30th: Cultural Connections: Hispanic Heritage Month Storytellers

Roseville:

1. August 19th: Food Truck Mania
2. August 20th & September 17th: Friday Flicks at Vernon Street Town Square
3. August 21st & September 18th: Concerts on the Square at Vernon Street in Roseville

 

Rocklin:

1. Now-September (Select Days): Concerts at the Quarry
2. August 27th & September 24th: FREE Farmers Markets at Johnson-Springview Park

Low inventory in markets across the country have been driving up prices and creating bidding wars, making it extremely difficult for many potential buyers to successfully find and purchase homes. But it looks like things are (finally!) starting to look up for buyers.

According to realtor.com’s Monthly Housing Report for July 2021, while inventory is still low, more homes are starting to hit the market. New home listings were up 6.5 percent nationally year-over-year—and up even more (11.1 percent) in large metro areas. The more homes that become available, the more options there are for buyers—and the more the market shifts in their favor. In Sacramento, the active listing inventory went up 23.5% from June to July of this year according to SAR!

“July housing trends show a market still working its way back toward some version of normal. The feverish pace of home sales is beginning to follow historical seasonal patterns, while new listings grew at an unusually high rate for the summer months, further helping the inventory crunch,” Danielle Hale, chief economist for realtor.com, said in a recent press release. “This is shifting the housing market balance in a more buyer-friendly direction.”

So, what does this mean for you? If you’ve been struggling in your home search, the new inventory hitting the market could make it easier to successfully find and purchase a home—so get out there and start looking!

If you’re thinking about doing a bit of re-decorating to get your home ready for fall (which officially starts on September 22nd), make sure you’re on-trend by embracing all things cozy! Here are some of the top fall decor trends for 2021.

Velvet: It’s time to bring on the velvet! As far as upholstery is concerned, fall’s biggest trend is velvet – and we couldn’t be happier since this texture is perfect for creating a cozy, fall-ready ambiance. Think in terms of velvet layers, like the pillows and sofa pictured above. And don’t be afraid to embrace bold, cooler colors.

Leaves & Textures: Fall is synonymous with warm colors and cozy textures. Consider adding pumpkins and fall leaves to dining tables and family rooms to help bring that fresh fall feel into all areas of the home. You can also get creative with textures – from textured pillows, blankets, and even tabletop items such as figs and cotton – the sky is the limit!

Tarnish Accents: Cozy goes beyond fabrics and upholstery. When redecorating your home, consider incorporating distressed metals into your design to bring that soft glow into your home. Think accent tables, wall shelves, candle holders and centerpieces.

Candles: It’s hard to imagine with the recent heatwaves, but once the wind picks up and the leaves start to fall, candles will be sure to bring that warm and inviting feeling into your home – they also serve as beautiful decor and fill the home with cozy scents. Place a few votives on the fireplace, entryway table or outdoor patio to illuminate your home and add a touch of elegance.

Chunky Knits: It should come as no surprise that the arrival of fall will bring knits in every form– from sweaters and scarves to throw blankets! Knit throw blankets and pillows are a fall design favorite, but they can also work year-round when kept in neutral shades like creamy white or soft brown. You can also layer rugs, throws, and pillows along with warm colors to bring coziness into all areas of your home.

Pumpkin + Chocolate: Step aside pumpkin lattes because sweet is taking on a whole new meaning for your fall decor. Consider incorporating touches of orange and brown, in shades such as pumpkin and chocolate, to warm up any room in your home.

Low inventory in markets across the country have been driving up prices and creating bidding wars, making it extremely difficult for many potential buyers to successfully find and purchase homes. But it looks like things are (finally!) starting to look up for buyers.

According to realtor.com’s Monthly Housing Report for July 2021, while inventory is still low, more homes are starting to hit the market. New home listings were up 6.5 percent nationally year-over-year—and up even more (11.1 percent) in large metro areas. The more homes that become available, the more options there are for buyers—and the more the market shifts in their favor. In Sacramento, the active listing inventory went up 23.5% from June to July of this year according to SAR!

“July housing trends show a market still working its way back toward some version of normal. The feverish pace of home sales is beginning to follow historical seasonal patterns, while new listings grew at an unusually high rate for the summer months, further helping the inventory crunch,” Danielle Hale, chief economist for realtor.com, said in a recent press release. “This is shifting the housing market balance in a more buyer-friendly direction.”

So, what does this mean for you? If you’ve been struggling in your home search, the new inventory hitting the market could make it easier to successfully find and purchase a home—so get out there and start looking!

Summer officially kicked off last week just in time for California’s re-opening and you know what that means…events are back on! The Greater Sacramento area is gearing up with an impressive lineup of fun. From Fourth of July festivities and live music events to River Cats games and summer movie nights, we’ve scoured the region to bring you the most up-to-date local happenings and activities in your area. So shake things up this summer by using our below guide before planning your next outing!

Looking for ways to celebrate the Fourth this weekend? Many communities are set to bring back fireworks, food, and fun! Click on the below events to learn more.

July 3-4: Rancho Cordova 4th of July Celebration at Hagen Community Park

July 4: 4th on the Field Remix at Sutter Health Park

July 4: Fourth of July Parade on Vernon Street in Roseville

July 4: Fourth of July After Celebration at Royer Park in Roseville

July 4: Fourth of July Fireworks at The Grounds in Roseville

July 4: Fourth of July Bike Parade and Festival at Arden Park

July 4: Salute the Red, White & Blue Fireworks Spectacular in Elk Grove

July 4: Annual Fourth of July Family Blast at the El Dorado County Fair

July 4: Fourth of July at Lodi Lake

 

It’s time to indulge in all that Summer has to offer this year. Click on the below links to see what other local events are taking place now through the end of July!

Sacramento:

River Cats Schedule

Sac Republic FC Schedule

July 2nd (And Select Days): Live Music at Crawdads on the River

Now-August 15th (Select Days): Crocker Art Exhibits: Legends from Los Angeles + FREE Sundays

Now-August 28th: Downtown Live

Now-July 31st: Front Street Water Carousel & Waterfront Wheel in Old Sacramento

Every Second Saturday: Dance on the Edge in Old Sacramento

Now-September 12th: UpcyclePop Art Market in Old Sacramento

Select Weekends (Friday-Sunday): Old Sacramento Underground & Time Travel Tours

July 3rd: Sacramento African Marketplace

July 3rd: Sacramento Seafood and Soul Food Festival at Miller Regional Park

July 8th (And Select Days): 2021 Sacramento Shakespeare Festival (Streaming Live)

July 17-18th: Beer & Taco Festival at Cesar Chavez Plaza

July 25th: 3rd Annual Jazz Fest by the River

July 31st: DOCO Makers Market by River City Marketplace

 

Carmichael:

Now-August 29th (Every Sunday): Carmichael Farmers’ Market

July (Dates TBD): Concerts in the Park

July 4th (Every Sunday): Carmichael Cars and Coffee

 

Fair Oaks:

July 14th: Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce Progressive Dinner

July 29th (And Select Days): Concerts in the Park

July 30th (And Select Days): Comedy Under the Stars

July 31st (And Select Days): Theatre Under the Stars

 

Rancho Cordova/Gold River:

Now-July 10th (Week Days): Art at City Hall: Black & White Plus One

July 3rd (Every Saturday): Sunrise Light Rail Station Farmers Market

July 12th (And Select Days):  At at City Hall: Abstraction

July 16th: Music at the MACC

 

Folsom:

Now-August (Thursday Nights): Twilight Concert Series in Historic Folsom

Now-August (Weekends): Weekend Pedestrian Promenade in Historic Folsom

July 9th (And Select Fridays): Summer of Music 2021 at Folsom City Lions Park

July 3rd (Every Saturday): Cars and Coffee Show at Folsom Palladio

July 3rd: Way Out West in Historic Folsom

July 7th (Every Wednesday): Palladio’s Wednesday Night Summer Concert Series

July 2-4th: Folsom Pro Rodeo

July 3rd: First Saturday Art Hop in Historic Folsom

July 3rd: Storybook Time at Sutter Street Theatre

 

El Dorado Hills:

July 4th (Every Sunday): El Dorado Hills Certified Farmers’ Market

July 8th (Every Thursday): Live on the Boulevard at El Dorado Hills Town Center

 

Elk Grove:

July 1st (Every Thursday): Neighborhood Market

July 3rd (Every Saturday): Farmers Market

July 3rd: First Saturday Art Reception

July 4th: Elk Grove Run 4 Hunger

July 7th: Food Truck Mania

July 16th: Comedy Under the Stars

 

Roseville:

July 16th: Friday Flicks at Vernon Street Town Square

July 17th (Every 3rd Saturday): Concerts on the Square at Vernon Street in Roseville

 

Rocklin:

July 8th (And Select Days): Park Pulse at Johnson-Springview Park

July 17th: Concerts at the Quarry

July 30th: FREE Farmers Markets at Johnson-Springview Park

 

Wanna get away? One of the many great things about Sacramento is its close proximity to places including Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, and the Napa Valley Wine Region. If you’ve found yourself daydreaming about getting out of town during this pandemic, why not treat yourself to a day (or weekend) trip with family, friends, or that special someone?

1. 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. They also have fantastic restaurants, concert venues, and shopping! Take a look at some of the local events happening now through the end of July by checking out the South Lake Tahoe and North Lake Tahoe events calendars.
2. Napa Valley: What better way to kick off summer than by paying a visit 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 upcoming events and here for lodging accommodations.
3. San Francisco: San Francisco is back in action and has plenty of events in store this summer! Attend one of their Summer Music Sessions (tickets are limited), watch both the SF Giants and the Oakland A’s in action, or visit one of several museum exhibits. If you’re heading to the Bay for the Fourth, check out this guide for fireworks, concerts, parades, and more.

There’s hope on the horizon for buyers. According to the Sacramento Association of Realtors, while inventory is still down 28.6% from May of last year, we did see a 26% increase in inventory from April to May of this year. So what does that mean for buyers? It appears that with increasing inventory, we will reach a better equilibrium of supply and demand. Check out the latest stats here.

While Saint Patrick’s Day is typically synonymous with parades, festive food and drinks, and large gatherings with friends and family, this year it looks like a quiet holiday at home is on the agenda. Staying in might not be what you had planned, but lucky for us, there are still plenty of ways to safely celebrate St. Paddy’s Day at home. From creative recipes and drinks to fun crafts for the whole family, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of the below ideas for inspiration!

Whether you’re relaxing at home alone, celebrating with that special someone, or trying to keep the kiddos entertained, everyone needs to eat. So why not make a festive meal at home? We’ve got you covered with St. Patrick’s Day-inspired dishes that will be sure to impress your St. Paddy’s Day crew.

 

 

Bring on the Appetizers: Looking for some tasty appetizers to go with that green pint of Guinness? Check out these mouth-watering dips, bites, and sliders.

1. Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders: This ridiculously easy app is taken to the next level with Guinness-braised cabbage.
2. Hot Reuben Dip: This cheesy spread might be better than the actual sandwich….Learn how to make it here.
3. Pretzel Dog Beer Cheese Dip: With beer cheese, and homemade pretzels, what’s not to love? Click here to make this crowd-pleasing app.
4. Arugula Pesto: The striking green shade from the pesto makes this flavorful spread a great appetizer for the occasion!
5. Irish Nachos: Think nachos but with an Irish twist…This recipe calls for a heaping pile of potato chips, slathered in beer cheese, and topped off with crunchy bacon and fresh chives.
6. Zucchini Tots: Shredded zucchini makes this dish healthy yet delicious! Try making them in an air fryer for added crunch.
7. Bacon-Wrapped Cabbage Wedges: When in doubt, add bacon. Learn how to make these bacon-wrapped cabbage wedges here.
8. Irish Pub Cheese Recipe: This creamy cheese dish is loaded with Irish cheddar and pairs well with pretzels or pita chips.
9. Saint Paddy’s Dill Dip: Serve this delicious dip with raw vegetables or crackers of your choice.

What’s For Dinner?: These Irish-inspired dishes will take your Saint Patrick’s Day celebration to the next level.

1. Guinness Burgers: These Guinness burgers with Irish cheddar and crisp bacon are a sure crowd-pleaser. Pair with Irish chips for a complete meal.
2. Colcannon: This staple dish is a mixture of shredded cabbage, creamy mashed potatoes, and garlic.
3. Irish Stew: This comfort dish features tender lamb, hearty carrots, and potatoes topped off with herb butter.
4. Soda Bread: Soda bread anyone? Learn how to make this quintessential Irish side here.
5. Irish Seafood Chowder: This hearty chowder is a delicious combination of smoked and fresh fish in a light creamy broth.
6. Corned Beef in Beer (Crockpot): Let your crockpot do the work by trying out this tasty Corned Beef in Beer recipe.
7. Boxty: Similar to latke, Irish boxty is a potato pancake that is prepared by mixing grated potatoes into mashed potatoes before frying like a patty.
8. Irish Cabbage and Bacon: There’s nothing boring about this cabbage dish, which is loaded with bacon, onions, chicken broth, and mustard seeds.
9. Irish Shephard’s Pie: This layered casserole dish combines ground beef or lamb with buttery mashed potatoes.
10. Irish Pan Haggerty Potatoes: This dish is loaded with sliced potatoes, bacon, onions, and lots of cheese. Check out the recipe here.

Mix up a Green Drink: Get the party started with these holiday-inspired beers, mixed drinks, and mocktails!

1. Green Beer: It wouldn’t be Saint Patrick’s Day without green beer. With just a couple drops of green dye, you can make your own. Get the recipe here.
2. Gaelic Grasshopper: This decadent Irish-cream-infused cocktail is both gorgeous and packed with flavor!
3. Irish Coffee: Any coffee lovers out there? Celebrate the occasion (and get your coffee fix) with this Spiked Irish Coffee.
4. Lucky Charms Shots: Try out these “magically delicious” shots with Bailey’s Irish Cream and Lucky Charms!
5. Shamrock Sour Cocktail: Whiskey sour gets a festive makeover by going green. Learn how to make this cocktail here.
6. Jameson Jello Shots: Saint Patrick’s Day isn’t complete without jello shots! Try making these Jameson Jello Shots.
7. Fuzzy Leprechaun: This fruity cocktail is made with peach schnapps, blue Curacao, and vodka.
8. Lime Sherbert St. Patty’s Day Punch (Non-Alcoholic): This delicious lime sherbert drink packs a punch! Learn how to make it here.
9. Irish Car Bombs: End the night with a holiday favorite….the classic Irish Car Bomb!

Make a Festive Dessert: Don’t forget the dessert! Consider making one of these decadent treats to celebrate the occasion.

1. Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies: These mint chocolate pudding cookiesare the perfect way to end your meal. Pair with mint chocolate chip ice cream for the ultimate treat.
2. Saint Patrick’s Day Chocolate Covered Oreos: Up your Oreo game with these chocolate-dipped Oreos topped with sprinkles.
3. Irish Chocolate Pots de Creme: Not only is this dessert gorgeous but it’s also “melt in your mouth” amazing… Add two tablespoons of Baileys for that Irish touch.
4. Irish Blackberry Fool: Sweet lightly stewed berries and vanilla whipped cream and yogurt come together to create this delicious dessert.
5. Pot O’ Gold Cups: These little brownies prove that you don’t have to go to the end of the rainbow to find the perfect St. Paddy’s Day dessert.
6. Lucky Charm Eclaires: This recipe swaps your standard chocolate fair for a citrus filling topped with Lucky Charms.
7. Green Velvet Pops: Forget red velvet — green velvet will be your new favorite rich (and seasonally appropriate) flavor.
8. Shamrock Shake Cupcakes: This minty cake topped with a fluffy whipped cream mousse is what dreams are made of! Get the full recipe here.
9. Chocolate Guinness Cake: This silky, smooth chocolate cake has hints of Guinness and is topped with a rich cream cheese frosting…need we say more?
10. Irish Trifle: This fruit-filled treat is layered with ladyfingers, jello, jam, and fresh whipped cream.

Get Crafty: If you’re home with the kids due to school cancellations, set up a fun craft they can do on their own.

1. Leprechaun Traps: As seen on Instagram, Leprechaun traps are one of this year’s biggest holiday trends. And most of the designs can be made with materials that you can find around the house. Check out these 6 DIY Leprechaun Traps.
2. Pot of Gold Mason Jar: Create these adorable Mason Jars filled with chocolate coins and gift them to remind your loved ones that they make you feel lucky each day.
3. Paper Shamrock Wreath: All you need is some scrap paper to create this cute shamrock wreath.
4. DIY Tee: Working from home? You can still be festive and wear your green with this adorable Kiss Me I’m Irish shirt.
5. St. Patrick’s Day Pencil Toppers: Make homework a little more fun with these DIY Pencil Toppers.
6. Shamrock Coloring Printable: Coloring books are all the rage – and this shamrock printable is no exception. This activity is perfect for both kids and adults.
7. Fruit Loop Rainbow: This simple rainbow craft is a great way to keep your little ones entertained all afternoon.

As we transitioned into the new year, low mortgage rates and low inventory drove up real estate prices in markets across the country.

But exactly how much did home values increase at the start of 2021? According to Realtor.com, in February 2021 the median list price of homes in Sacramento was $399,500 – trending up 12.5% year-over-year. That means if you purchased a home for $350,000 in February 2020, by February 2021, that home would have increased in value by $43,750, bringing your home’s value to $393,750.

Demand for homes is high and inventory is low, which is driving up home prices—so if you’ve been thinking about selling, now is a great time to list and fetch top dollar for your home.