Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Working with a Top-Rated Real Estate Agent in Stillwater MN: Why the Right Choice Matters

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If you’re searching for the top-rated real estate agent in Stillwater MN or trying to find the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN, you’re not alone. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or preparing to sell, choosing the right professional can significantly impact your experience—and your results.

In a competitive market like Stillwater, Minnesota, working with an experienced, strategic, and client-focused team is essential. One name that consistently stands out is the David Reed Real Estate Team—a trusted group known for delivering clear guidance, strong communication, and proven success.

Why Choosing the Best Real Estate Agent in Stillwater MN Matters

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. From pricing and negotiations to timelines and inspections, there are many moving parts.

Working with the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN ensures that you:

  • Have a clear, strategic plan
  • Avoid costly mistakes
  • Maximize your investment
  • Experience a smoother, less stressful process

This is where the David Reed Real Estate Team truly excels.

Who Is the Top-Rated Realtor in Stillwater MN?

Anyone researching the top-rated realtor in Stillwater MN will quickly notice that the David Reed Real Estate Team consistently ranks among the best options for buyers and sellers alike.

Their reputation is built on more than just experience—it’s rooted in a thoughtful, strategy-driven approach that puts clients first.

A Strategy-First Approach That Sets Them Apart

While many agents follow a standard process, this team takes a different path.

They develop a customized strategy for every client, taking into account:

  • Personal goals
  • Timeline
  • Market conditions
  • Long-term plans

This proactive approach helps clients move from uncertainty to confidence—making smarter decisions every step of the way.

What Makes the Best Real Estate Agent in Stillwater MN?

To understand why this team is often considered both the top-rated real estate agent in Stillwater MN and the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN, let’s break down the qualities that truly matter.

1. Deep Local Knowledge

Stillwater is known for its historic homes, scenic river views, and strong community appeal. A knowledgeable agent understands:

  • Neighborhood-specific pricing
  • Market trends
  • Buyer demand
  • Seasonal fluctuations

The David Reed Real Estate Team uses real-time insights to guide clients with precision.

2. Consistent, Clear Communication

A hallmark of the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN is strong communication.

Clients appreciate:

  • Quick responses
  • Honest updates
  • Clear explanations

This team ensures you’re never left wondering what’s happening—you’re informed and supported at every stage.

3. Skilled Negotiation

Negotiation is where deals are won or lost.

Whether buying or selling, a top-rated real estate agent in Stillwater MN must be able to:

  • Navigate multiple-offer situations
  • Structure competitive offers
  • Negotiate favorable terms
  • Protect your interests

The David Reed Real Estate Team brings both strategy and experience to the table, helping clients secure optimal outcomes.

4. Advanced Marketing for Sellers

Today’s real estate market requires more than a basic listing. It demands a strategic marketing approach.

As one of the best real estate agents in Stillwater MN, this team provides:

  • Professional staging guidance
  • High-quality photography
  • Strategic pricing plans
  • Targeted digital marketing

Their goal is to generate strong interest and attract serious buyers quickly.

Concierge-Level Service That Elevates Results

One of the key reasons clients choose the David Reed Real Estate Team is their concierge-style service.

They go beyond the basics by helping sellers prepare their homes to shine in the market.

This includes:

  • Coordinating staging and cleaning
  • Preparing the home for showings
  • Ensuring a polished presentation
  • Launching with a strong marketing strategy

This level of detail often results in:

  • Faster sales
  • Higher offers
  • Fewer price reductions

A Better Buying Experience

For buyers, working with the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN provides a competitive edge.

The David Reed Real Estate Team helps buyers:

  • Understand the market
  • Identify the right homes
  • Submit strong offers
  • Navigate inspections and closing

They simplify the process so you can focus on finding the right home with confidence.

What Clients Are Saying

The true sign of a top-rated real estate agent in Stillwater MN is client satisfaction.

The David Reed Real Estate Team consistently receives praise for:

  • Going above and beyond
  • Providing a smooth experience
  • Being honest and reliable

Clients often describe the team as knowledgeable, supportive, and easy to work with—making what can be a stressful process feel manageable and even enjoyable.

Built on Referrals and Long-Term Trust

One of the strongest indicators of the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN is repeat business.

More than 70% of the David Reed Real Estate Team’s business comes from referrals and past clients.

This level of loyalty reflects:

  • Strong relationships
  • Consistent results
  • High client satisfaction

People don’t just work with them once—they recommend them again and again.

Why Stillwater MN Continues to Attract Buyers and Sellers

Stillwater is one of Minnesota’s most desirable places to live, offering:

  • A charming historic downtown
  • Beautiful riverfront views
  • Strong property values
  • A vibrant local community

Because demand remains high, working with a top-rated real estate agent in Stillwater MN is essential to navigating the market successfully.

How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent in Stillwater MN

If you’re comparing agents, here are a few key things to look for:

  • Proven local experience
  • Strong client reviews
  • A clear, strategic approach
  • Effective communication
  • A trustworthy and professional demeanor

The right agent will not only guide you—but also give you confidence in every decision you make.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re searching for the top-rated real estate agent in Stillwater MN or simply want the best real estate agent in Stillwater MN, the goal is the same: to find someone who can deliver results while making the process smooth and stress-free.

The David Reed Real Estate Team has built their reputation on:

  • Strategic planning
  • Clear communication
  • Expert negotiation
  • Exceptional service

They don’t just help you buy or sell—they help you succeed.

Ready to Buy or Sell in Stillwater MN?

If you’re ready to take the next step, the David Reed Real Estate Team is here to help.

With a proven system, local expertise, and a commitment to your success, they are a trusted choice for anyone looking to buy or sell in Stillwater.

Contact the David Reed Real Estate Team today to get started and experience what it’s like to work with one of the best real estate agents in Stillwater MN.

Myths and misinformation about reverse mortgages

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By Patrick McCarran, Real Estate Broker

A reverse mortgage can be a helpful tool for your retirement plan. There are generally two options. Options one is to refinance your existing home and receive a monthly payment to supplement your income. Option two is less well known and is to purchase another home with a reverse mortgage loan. In this scenario you either use equity from the sale of your home such as in a downsizing option or moving to a more affordable area. If you have the funds, you can also use those as a down payment, usually half the value.

You may not have planned on having a loan on your home in your senior years, but it may be a good option for you if you can get pass the misinformation.  There is a great deal of misleading “facts” about reverse mortgages and a large population that believe what they hear. I will address some of the misinformation.

The government will NOT Own your property. The government involvement is limited to insuring your loan with the actual lender much the same a traditional purchase loan.

You can absolutely sell your property if your situation changes. Just like any other loan you can sell the property pay off the loan, take your equity, and move on.

Nobody will take your property form your or your heirs. If there is equity in the property, then your heirs can sell and take the equity or refinance the home to pay off the balance and keep the home. There are some timelines associated with the process but in my experience HUD is reasonable.

If the value drops, they cannot come after you for the difference. A reverse mortgage is a non-recourse loan. This means that house is the only collateral, and the lender or HUD cannot come after you or your heirs.

Your spouse will not have to move even if they are younger. A law was passed in 2014 that protects a non-borrowing spouse so they can stay in the home until they choose to move.

There are ways however instances in which you could be forced to sell. These include, if you do not occupy the property as your primary residence for 12 months, if you fail to maintain the property, if you do not pay necessary expenses such as property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, etc.

It can be confusing, but part of the application process is a mandatory counseling session with an approved non-partisan counselor. Their job is to answer any questions and get you more information. The fees can be higher than traditional mortgages and HELOCs. But often the benefits outweigh the costs. There are no loan payments, no stringent qualifications, and no required income level to qualify.

It is a fact that you are using your equity and therefore less money will be left to your heirs but that’s your choice to make and it may improve the quality of your golden years.

Be informed and know your options.

Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker DRE# 01325072. He can be contacted by phone or text at (925) 899-5536, pmccarran@yahoo.com or www.CallPatrick.com. An independently owned and operated office.  In association with Realty One Group Elite DRE# 0193160. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office forms partnership to ensure extra security for property recordings

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Photo: Granicus LLC

With Granicus, LLC developed notification program

By Dawn Kruger, Community and Media Relations Coordinator, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office

Martinez, CA-The Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office is pleased to announce the launch of a new online tool that property owners can use to add an extra layer of security for recordings. The opt-in tool allows those with recorded documents to be notified of any new recording activity related to property. Property owners who go online to our Real Estate Recording Notification Alert page https://www.contracostavote.gov/recorder/fraud-protection/real-estate-recording-notification-program/ can sign up to receive an email notification anytime a document related to the property address, parcel number, or name associated with the property is indexed after recording.

As part of the department’s commitment to transparency, the Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder Division staff worked closely with Granicus, LLC, a longtime vendor, to develop a real estate recording notification program to help customers stay informed about any activity related to their property recordings. The notification program is optional, and property owners can sign up on the Clerk-Recorder website.

“Our office is always looking for ways to offer as much security as possible to property owners,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Clerk-Recorder for Contra Costa County. “This real estate recording notification program, along with our partnership with the District Attorney’s office to protect homeowners from fraudulent transfers of ownership, offers an important layer of security to Contra Costa County property owners.”

The launch of the real estate recording notification program is just one of the many ways that the Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder works tirelessly to ensure our residents are informed and protected from fraud.

Major changes in how consumers purchase and sell their homes

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By Patrick McCarran, Real Estate Broker

There is a major change coming in the real estate world that will completely reshape how buyers purchase their home. What will the settlement mean for homebuyers and homesellers?

Traditionally Owners have hired an agent to sell their property and negotiated a commission. By making it a percentage it gives the agent incentive to maximize the sales price, this is a very common practice with money management, talent agents, etc. The listing agent would then offer an offer of compensation from their commission to act as a finder’s fee and to broaden the scope and market of the property, this was the function of the MLS.

Starting in August 2024 this will no longer be allowed, due to a class action settlement with a private party and supported by the DOJ the selling agent will no longer be able to offer a finder’s fee on the MLS. The new system will shift agent compensation and place the Buyers on their own. This will give the Buyer the options of hiring a real estate agent, or a lawyer, or representing themselves.  A written agreement will be required for Realtor representation for both in-person and live virtual home tours. This currently only applies to Realtors but there is a state law in the legislature to apply to ALL real estate licensees. The Buyer will now be responsible for paying for their representation. There is, as always, no set price for representation and this will be up to the individual to negotiate.

Sellers will be allowed to pay for the Buyer’s agent if they choose by offering concessions on the MLS. The buyer can then choose to distribute the money according to their needs towards closing costs or Realtor fees. While listing commission fees have always been negotiable with the changing dynamic the fee structure will most likely change. As a Seller it will be up to you to negotiate what you wish to pay to sell your home and what will be the most advantageous.  The Seller will decide if they wish to pay and how much to the Buyer’s agent. The Seller and their agent will need to work out if they are comfortable with their agent representing an unrepresented buyer and what the additional fee for the listing agent to represent the Buyer in that scenario.

While doing it yourself may sound like a great idea and instant savings, bypassing an agent’s services may not lead to direct savings, especially for first time buyers, the home buying process can get very complicated and having a great local agent to negotiate and guide you can give you a competitive advantage.

Consumers will still be able to view Open Houses without a written agreement and may tour with the listing agent if the listing agent business practices allow. Buyer will have option to sign exclusive agreements or open agreement which will be up to the consumer and their Realtor. The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) will continue to be supported through Realtor dues and thereby imparting vital information to the consumer.

As we move forward into this brave new world of real estate, it will be different but ultimately I am confident that Consumers and Realtors will work together so that all parties may benefit.

Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker He can be contact by phone or text at (925) 899-5536, pmccarran@yahoo.com or www.CallPatrick.com. An independently owned and operated office. Equal Housing Opportunity.

 

2024-25 County Assessment Roll shows over $11 billion increase in property tax base

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For total of $278.83 billion, San Ramon has greatest amount with about 10% of total

Martinez had highest increase at over 6%

“…the highest to date in Contra Costa County’s history” – Gus Kramer, County Assessor

By Office of the Contra Costa County Assessor

The “2024-2025” Assessor’s “Close of Roll Affidavit” was signed by Gus S. Kramer, Assessor, and subscribed and sworn to the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, on June 28, 2024. The 2024-2025 Assessment Roll has been delivered to the County Auditor, as required by law.

Source: Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office

The increase to the local tax base for 2024-2025 is over $11.16 billion. This represents a 4.17% increase in assessed value and brings the total net local assessment roll to more than $278.83 billion. The 2024-2025 assessment roll is the highest to date in Contra Costa County’s history.  Of that amount $233.28 billion was from within the 19 cities and the balance from within the unincorporated areas of the county.

Cities with the largest increases in assessed value include Antioch, Oakley and Martinez with increases ranging from 4.99% and 5.21% to 6.09%, respectively. San Ramon, Concord and Walnut Creek saw the lowest assessed value increases ranging from 2.97% down to 1.45%. The assessment roll now consists of 380,681 parcels, an increase of 1,239 over the previous year.

Property value assessed increases by city. Source: Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office

Of the 19 cities in the county San Ramon has the greatest Gross Assessed Value, which includes both secured and non-secured at $28.63 billion, followed by Walnut Creek at $27.13 billion, Concord with $23.64 billion, Richmond with $21.42 billion, Danville with $18.13 billion and Antioch with $16.72 billion in assessed value.

“I would like to acknowledge and commend the employees of the Assessor’s Office for their continued dedication and hard work which resulted in the completion and delivery of the 2024-2025 assessment roll,” Kramer wrote in his annual letter to the Board of Supervisors.

UPDATE: Later, the County Assessor explained, some of the increases in the assessed values are due to the sales in new home developments and resale of older homes at higher prices, Kramer explained. “This doesn’t mean taxes are going up,” Kramer stated.

His letter and the complete 2024-2025 Assessment Roll Reports can be found, here.

Luxury Brentwood home for sale

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Open House Saturday, April 27

Paid advertisement.

This large, beautiful home has 6 bedrooms, 2 bonus rooms, and 4.5 bathrooms. One highly sought-after feature here is an en-suite (in-law) bedroom on the first floor. The kids can grab some blankets, popcorn, and get nice and cozy in the darkly painted theater room to immerse themselves into an amazing and safe movie experience! While, at the same time, you can escape to your primary suite for a relaxing experience as you soak in the large, jetted tub followed by a movie of your choice in your bedroom-sized retreat.

You will note the class and pride of ownership with upgraded cherry-wood kitchen and bathroom cabinets, 18 square marble tile foyer and kitchen floors, bordered by exquisite Venetian Mosaics, as well as the overall meticulous maintenance. The fireplace can be used by your choice of wood or gas. There are other great features like a water softener (owned), dual zone HVAC serviced annually by Champion, a finished/painted 3-car garage, a sink and cabinets the laundry room, and more! Nestled in the well-maintained Sterling Gate community, this beauty is very near walking trails, shopping, restaurants, and is in the Heritage High School district.

Very quiet inside!

See more photos and details by clicking here.

(Advertise your home for sale on the Herald websites. Email info@antiochherald.com or call (925) 457-5324).

Property Tax Reduction Scam Alert: important warning from Contra Costa County Assessor Gus Kramer

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Don’t pay a fee to have your property taxes reduced

(Martinez, CA) – Many property owners throughout Contra Costa County are receiving an official looking document in the mail regarding a fee-based service to have their property’s taxable value reduced. Although these mailers have the appearance of an official government document, the correspondence is not from the Contra Costa County Assessor or any other Contra Costa County Office.

The California Attorney General’s Office has posted warnings to California property owners on their website about the practices of these companies. For more information, please visit the Attorney General’s Consumer Alert at https://oag.ca.gov/consumers/general/prop_tax_scam.

Current scam mailers are requiring both a $40 county filing fee with the Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board for a formal appeal, and a contingent fee of 30% of any tax savings as a result of filing the application. 

It is important for property owners to know that the Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office does not charge a fee to complete an informal value review for our taxpayers.

Property owners who believe the current market value of their property is less than the assessed value, can file a FREE “Request for Value Review (Prop 8)” form with the Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office. Please visit our webpage at http://www.cccounty.us/assessor and select “Review Your Value” to find a downloadable application.

 

Beachfront property Rancho Gaspareño for sale near Cabo, Baja, Mexico

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Listed by Realtor from Antioch

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Rancho Gaspareño is a 47-acre, beachfront development property north of Cabo San Lucas, Baja, Mexico that stands as a tribute to the grand Manila galleons that sailed between Acapulco and The Philippines for two centuries. From exotic spices to luxurious silks, these majestic ships brought an array of coveted treasures in their voyages from East to West – goods which now make up some of our oldest historical legacies!

The hills and rocks of Rancho Gaspareño have captivated the imaginations of treasure seekers since long ago. Where some hear tales, kids from neighboring schools embark on an annual classic adventure to explore its winding cave with a glimmering hope that pirate booty lies in wait for them! In 1974 construction workers stripped away even more mystery when they uncovered a trove believed to be filled with plunder – fueling further dreams and inspiring future expeditions hoping for similar rewards.

It is listed at $11.95M for the waterfront lot, $4.75M for the mountain side lot and $13.95M for both lots by former Antioch Real Estate Broker Cyndi Williams of Ronival Real Estate. She’s lived in Cabo San Lucas selling real estate for more than a decade and is a local expert.

THE PROPERTY

Approximately forty-two acres of gentle sloping land on the Pacific Coast of Mexico between Todos Santos, (20 miles) and Cabo San Lucas, (21 miles) Baja California Sur. Approximately 414 meters (1,242 lineal feet) of rocky point and gentle beach comprise the water frontage. The federal four lane Highway 19, runs through the property creating three distinct development areas; a knoll above the rocky point for boutique hotel and restaurants; gentle sloping land from beach to highway ideal for shopping village or other commercial venture; and approximately twenty-four acres across the highway with sloping water and mountain views, ideal for residential or retirement village and small emergency clinic.

Since it is located between the two population centers of Todos Santos and Cabo San Lucas it is ideal for development as a destination resort. This property is perfect for major tourism development or a continuing care retirement community with lodging, commercial center and highway clinic.

BEACHFRONT PARCEL

The Ocean front lot is a magnificent property with over 17 acres of stunning land and 1000 feet of water frontage. Crowned by the awe-inspiring 100ft rock promontory that towers above the sea, this prime piece offers unparalleled views spanning many miles in either direction. It’s no wonder it would make an excellent setting for a hotel plus restaurants and other leisure facilities – all easily accessible via good highways alongside generous parking space!

MOUNTAIN SIDE PARCEL

The Mountainside lot boasts approximately 24 acres of land with breathtaking views overlooking the sea and a gentle slope that provides great panoramic vistas to both sides; this picturesque piece of property is ideal for developing a residential community.

Offering various amenities like community center for art and music activities, multimedia room, fitness area swimming pools & dog park plus many more! Embrace an active lifestyle in harmony with nature at your new home by the seaside.

LEGENDS OF BURIED TREASURE AT RANCHO GASPAREÑO

Due to the large amount of pirate activity in the area of this prime oceanfront land in Baja Sur in the 16th and 17th century, it is a well-known legend that pirate treasure can be found buried in the cave below the promontory. Schools from as far away as La Paz schedule annual visits to explore the cave and Rancho Gaspareño. Punta El Gaspareño was named after a Spanish Galleon that went aground off of the point in foul weather.

But the treasure has yet to be discovered!

It is well documented history that notorious pirates roamed, sailed and plundered in the cape area of this prime oceanfront land in Baja Sur for almost 300 years. During these periods pirates were mainly of Dutch, Spanish, English, Chilean origin. In the periods from the mid 1500’s to the 1800’s over 250 Spanish Galleons loaded with their super cargos of various valuables from the Philippines (named Manila Galleons), passed through and stopped in the cape areas to prepare for their trips to Acapulco, the headquarters for new Spain and then on to Spain. Many tales of fighting and plundering are well documented in history. As recent as 1974 while building the road to Pichelinque, the out-of-town road to the ferry terminal near la Paz, a pirate chest of plundered loot was discovered by road workers.

Learn more at www.ranchogasparenobcs.com and at www.gringogazette.com/wp/2021/05/baja-californias-best-kept-secret/

The property is located at Km. 83.5 Carretera Federal – Todos Santos in Cabo San Lucas.

Interested parties please contact Cyndi Williams at cwilliams@ronival.com or +52 624-158-8650.

Rancho-Gaspareño-Brochure

County Assessor Kramer working to increase property tax exemption from $7K to $100K

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Working on proposition for November ballot; would save $1,000 per year on average

Contra Costa County Assessor Gus Kramer.

The only law protecting seniors and other property owner dollars against inflation and real estate is Proposition 13. The most your real estate taxes can be raised is 2% a year under Prop 13.

Presently Contra Costa County Assessor Gus Kramer and several other assessors throughout the California are working to increase the homeowner’s exemption from $7,000 a year to $100,000 a year minimum. This would give every homeowner almost a $1,000 a year reduction in their property taxes.

Prior to Prop 13 passing in 1978 the homeowner’s exemption was 25% of the assessed value. That also is an alternative to the $100,000 homeowner’s exemption being proposed. Please stay tuned for a proposition that addresses this on our upcoming November 2022 ballot.

“We’re working with the Jarvis Gann group,” Kramer said. “If there was ever a time to help homeowners this is the time with inflation, increased values, and increases in interest rates.”

“The state should have indexed the exemption in 1978 but they were greedy and did not,” he added.

As this proposition develops, he will keep the public informed, Kramer shared.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.