East Bay Market Update - February 2025

Thinking of buying or selling a home in Berkeley?

At Calia Homes, we specialize in helping East Bay clients navigate the Berkeley real estate market with confidence. Whether you're a first-time buyer searching for the perfect home near the Gourmet Ghetto or a longtime homeowner preparing to sell in the Elmwood or Northbrae neighborhoods, our experienced Berkeley Realtors offer trusted guidance, local expertise, and a people-first approach. With decades of experience and a reputation built on referrals, we’re here to help you make smart, successful real estate decisions in Piedmont and the surrounding East Bay communities.

The Less Glamorous Aspects of Home Ownership With heavy rains and atmospheric storms hitting the East Bay, homeowners face flooding, sewer backups, and pest infestations. While rain is beneficial, it can also expose vulnerabilities in your home. Taking action now can help avoid costly repairs. Preventing Sewer Backups Atmospheric storms can overwhelm East Bay sewer systems, leading to backups. Reduce the risk by: Inspecting Your Sewer Lateral – Many homes have aging pipes with cracks or root intrusion. A professional camera inspection can detect

problems early. A number of East Bay plumbers will run this inspection for free. Call us for a referral. Protecting Against Tree Roots – Tree roots can infiltrate pipes, causing blockages. Consider a root barrier or replacing old pipes with root-resistant materials. Reducing Water Use During Storms – Limiting laundry and dishwasher use can ease strain on the system. Installing a Backwater Valve – This prevents sewage from backing up into your home during heavy storms. Water Weeps & Drainage Water weeps (drainage spaces in stucco and windows) prevent trapped moisture from building up. However, blocked weeps or poor drainage can lead to mold, leaks, and foundation issues. Check & Clear Weep Holes – Ensure they’re not clogged with dirt, paint, or debris. Improve Drainage – Redirect downspouts at least 5' from your foundation. If water pools, consider a French drain or sump pump. Inspect Doors & Windows – Leaky seals allow rain to seep in. Reapply caulking and weatherstripping as needed. Rodent-Proofing Your Home Colder temperatures and rain drive rodents indoors, especially in neighborhoods near open fields, creeks, and wooded areas. Prevent infestations by: Sealing Entry Points – Close gaps around vents, pipes, and foundation cracks with steel wool or caulking. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime! Cleaning Gutters & Trimming Trees – Clogged gutters and overgrown branches provide shelter and easy access for pests/rodents. Eliminating Food Sources – Store food in airtight containers, secure pet food, and rodent-proof compost bins. Checking Crawl Spaces & Attics – Look for droppings or gnawed materials. If you suspect an infestation, act quickly. You can hire a rodent company to assist you. Here are a few with 4+ star Yelp reviews: Omega Pest Control (510) 777-6664 Capable Pest Control (510) 688-8471 Crossfire Pest Termites & Rodents (800)496-9914 Stay Ahead of the Rain! With more storms expected, now is the time to act. The East Bay’s aging infrastructure and hilly terrain make flooding and drainage issues a real concern. Contact us for referrals to trusted local service providers. Stay safe this season!