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home ownership Tag

January 28, 2026
First Time Home Buyer Real Estate

The True Cost of Homeownership: What You Pay Beyond the Mortgage

Most buyers focus on one number: the monthly mortgage payment. But in 2025, the average homeowner spends nearly $1,800 per month on expenses beyond the mortgage. From rising property taxes and insurance premiums to maintenance and major repairs, the true cost of homeownership is often far higher than expected. Before you fall in love with a home, make sure you understand what it really costs to own it....

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by Cari Gennarelli
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Cari Gennarelli & Hilary Davis
December 15, 2025
buying a home Marin County Real Estate Relocating to Marin County Selling Your Home

How a Lifetime of Local Knowledge and Creative Problem-Solving Transformed a Real Estate Career

Cari Gennarelli brings more than real estate expertise to every client relationship — she brings lifelong Marin County roots, calm problem-solving, and a genuine belief that real estate is about people, not transactions. With a background spanning property management, construction, and design, Cari guides buyers and sellers with clarity, creativity, and a commitment to building relationships that last well beyond closing....

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by Cari Gennarelli
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September 29, 2025
Blog Light Management Real Estate Real Estate Investing

How to Spot Real Estate Scams (and Protect Your Investment)

Real estate scams are targeting more victims than ever before, and they're becoming increasingly sophisticated. Nearly 10,000 Americans fell victim to real estate fraud in 2024, losing over $173 million according to FBI reports.1 Even more concerning, about one in four home buyers or sellers encounter suspicious activity during the closing process, and one in 20 end up victims of wire fraud.2 These aren't isolated incidents targeting the naive or unprepared—they're professional operations that can fool experienced investors and savvy consumers alike. Scammers have adapted to modern technology and remote transactions,...

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by Cari Gennarelli
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March 28, 2025
buying a home First Time Home Buyer Marin County Real Estate Relocating to Marin County

5 Roadblocks To Affordable Homeownership (And Ways To Move Past Them)

Affordable homeownership can feel out of reach, but many common obstacles are more manageable than they appear. From rising interest rates and limited inventory to credit concerns and upfront costs, this article outlines five key roadblocks — along with practical strategies to help buyers move forward with clarity and confidence....

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by Cari Gennarelli
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September 1, 2024
Blog Light Lifestyle Real Estate

7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor

A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year. If you’re among them, you know that embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and daunting. According to the survey, the median renovation budget is around $15,000, so you're probably investing a significant amount—and you'll want to ensure your project’s success....

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by Cari Gennarelli
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June 1, 2024
Blog Light First Time Home Buyer Real Estate

Mid-Year Market Update for 2024: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

While elevated mortgage rates have continued to dampen the pace of home sales and affordability, there have been some positive developments for frustrated homebuyers. Nationwide, the inventory shortage is starting to ease, and an uptick in starter homes coming on the market has helped to slow the median home price growth rate, presenting some relief to cash-strapped buyers....

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by Cari Gennarelli
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April 1, 2024
buying a home Insurance Real Estate Relocating to Marin County Relocation

6 Strategies to Save on Home Insurance Premiums

For most homeowners, comprehensive home insurance coverage is crucial for financial security—but massive rate increases can turn a once-affordable home into a financial burden. They can also pose a serious challenge for sellers. A home insurance policy is typically required to get a mortgage, and, in some hard-hit regions, we’re seeing sales fall through or homes sit on the market because insurance policies are unattainable or too expensive. But don’t panic! While these broader trends may be out of your control, there’s still plenty you can do to save....

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by Cari Gennarelli
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Bay Area Modern Real Estate