The real estate industry has evolved dramatically over the years, with marketing playing an integral role in helping professionals attract buyers and sellers. Understanding Real Estate Marketing Tools Used by Professionals . The use of marketing tools has become essential for real estate agents, brokers, and property managers to gain visibility, generate leads, and close deals effectively. Understanding these tools is crucial for anyone looking to excel in the competitive real estate market. This article explores the various real estate marketing tools used by professionals and how they contribute to success in the industry.
A professional website is the cornerstone of any real estate marketing strategy. It serves as a digital storefront where potential clients can explore listings, read about the agent’s services, and contact them directly. A well-optimized website includes:
High-quality images and videos of properties
Easy navigation and mobile responsiveness
SEO-optimized content to rank higher on search engines
Contact forms and live chat options
Client testimonials and case studies
Landing pages are specialized pages designed to capture leads. These pages are often used in targeted marketing campaigns to promote specific properties, special offers, or real estate events.
SEO is a powerful tool that helps real estate professionals increase organic traffic to their websites. By optimizing content with relevant keywords such as "luxury homes for sale," "affordable apartments," and "real estate agent near me," professionals can improve their visibility on search engines. Other SEO strategies include:
Local SEO optimization to target buyers in specific locations
Creating blog content about market trends and property investment tips
Using structured data markup to enhance property listings
Building backlinks from authoritative real estate websites
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok have become essential for real estate marketing. These platforms allow professionals to showcase properties, interact with potential buyers, and build a personal brand. Effective social media marketing strategies include:
Posting high-quality images and virtual tours of properties
Running targeted ads to reach specific demographics
Engaging with followers through Q&A sessions and live property walkthroughs
Collaborating with influencers and local businesses
Email marketing remains a cost-effective way to nurture leads and stay connected with clients. Real estate professionals use email campaigns to:
Send personalized property recommendations
Share market updates and investment tips
Follow up with leads who have shown interest in a property
Promote open house events and exclusive listings
Using automation tools like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, and ActiveCampaign helps streamline email marketing efforts and improve engagement rates.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software is crucial for managing client interactions and tracking sales processes. Popular real estate CRM tools include:
Zillow Premier Agent CRM
HubSpot CRM
Salesforce for Real Estate
Follow Up Boss
These platforms help agents store client information, schedule follow-ups, automate communications, and analyze sales performance.
Virtual tours and 3D visualization tools have transformed real estate marketing, allowing buyers to explore properties remotely. Tools such as Matterport, EyeSpy360, and Zillow 3D Home provide immersive experiences through:
360-degree virtual tours
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) property walkthroughs
Interactive floor plans and dollhouse views
These technologies help international and out-of-state buyers make informed decisions without needing to visit the property in person.
PPC advertising is an effective way to drive targeted traffic to real estate listings. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads allow real estate professionals to create highly targeted campaigns based on:
Location and demographics
Search intent (e.g., "homes for sale in Los Angeles")
Retargeting users who previously visited the website
Investing in PPC ensures that listings get in front of the right audience, leading to higher conversion rates.
Content marketing plays a crucial role in educating and engaging potential buyers. Real estate professionals use blogging to provide valuable information, build credibility, and improve SEO rankings. Popular blog topics include:
Home buying and selling tips
Neighborhood guides and market trends
Mortgage and financing advice
Investment property strategies
High-quality, informative content positions real estate professionals as industry experts and attracts organic traffic to their websites.
Video marketing is one of the most engaging ways to showcase properties and connect with clients. Real estate professionals leverage platforms like YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok to share:
Property walkthrough videos
Client testimonials and success stories
Market updates and real estate advice
Behind-the-scenes looks at the home buying process
Using professional videography and drone footage enhances the visual appeal and helps capture buyer interest.
Listing properties on major real estate platforms increases exposure and attracts potential buyers. Some of the most popular platforms include:
Zillow
Realtor.com
Trulia
Redfin
Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
These platforms provide detailed property descriptions, high-resolution images, and contact information, making it easier for buyers to connect with real estate professionals.
Word-of-mouth marketing remains a powerful tool in the real estate industry. Professionals rely on networking and referrals to generate leads and build trust. Strategies include:
Attending local business events and real estate seminars
Partnering with mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and interior designers
Encouraging satisfied clients to leave online reviews and refer friends
Building a strong referral network helps agents establish credibility and expand their client base.
Despite the rise of digital marketing, traditional print marketing still holds value in real estate. Direct mail campaigns, flyers, and brochures are used to:
Promote open houses and new listings
Target specific neighborhoods with Just Sold and Just Listed postcards
Offer exclusive discounts and promotions
High-quality print materials help create a lasting impression and reinforce brand recognition.
Understanding and utilizing real estate marketing tools is essential for professionals looking to thrive in a competitive market. From websites and SEO to social media, video marketing, and networking, each tool plays a vital role in attracting clients and closing deals. By integrating these strategies effectively, real estate professionals can enhance their visibility, generate more leads, and achieve long-term success in the industry.
| Marketing Tool | Purpose | Key Benefits | Examples/Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Website & Landing Pages | Online presence, lead generation | Increases credibility, captures leads, improves conversions | WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, LeadPages |
| SEO (Search Engine Optimization) | Boosts website visibility on search engines | Attracts organic traffic, improves ranking | Google Search, Moz, SEMrush, Ahrefs |
| Social Media Marketing | Engaging with clients, property showcasing | Increases brand awareness, generates leads | Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok |
| Email Marketing | Client engagement, lead nurturing | Personalized communication, automated follow-ups | Mailchimp, ActiveCampaign, Constant Contact |
| Real Estate CRM Software | Manages client interactions & sales pipeline | Organizes contacts, automates tasks, tracks deals | Zillow Premier Agent CRM, Salesforce, HubSpot |
| Virtual Tours & 3D Visualization | Remote property showcasing | Enhances buyer experience, reduces site visits | Matterport, EyeSpy360, Zillow 3D Home |
| PPC Advertising (Pay-Per-Click) | Drives targeted traffic to listings | Increases exposure, generates high-intent leads | Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Bing Ads |
| Content Marketing & Blogging | Provides valuable real estate insights | Builds authority, improves SEO, attracts leads | WordPress, Medium, Substack |
| Video Marketing | Engages audience with visual storytelling | Boosts engagement, improves conversion rates | YouTube, Instagram Reels, TikTok |
| Real Estate Listing Platforms | Increases property exposure | Reaches a large audience of buyers & sellers | Zillow, Realtor.com, Trulia, MLS |
| Networking & Referral Marketing | Expands professional connections | Builds trust, generates word-of-mouth leads | Local events, industry partnerships |
| Print Marketing & Direct Mail | Traditional advertising for brand awareness | Targeted outreach, reinforces brand presence | Flyers, postcards, brochures |
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Pleasanton
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Main Street sign
Downtown panorama
Houses along First Street in historic downtown area
Veterans Memorial Building
Farmers' Market
Ruby Hill Winery
Quarter horse racing at the Alameda County Fair
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Seal
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| Motto:
The City of Planned Progress
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| Coordinates: 37°39′45″N 121°52′29″W / 37.66250°N 121.87472°W | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Alameda |
| Mexican land grant | 1839 |
| Established | 1869 |
| Incorporated | June 18, 1894[1] |
| Named after | General Alfred Pleasonton |
| Government
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| • Type | Council–manager |
| • Mayor | Jack Balch[2] |
| • Vice Mayor | Jeffrey Nibert |
| • City Council | Julie Testa Matt Gaidos Craig Eicher |
| • City Manager | Gerry Beaudin |
| Area | |
|
• Total
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24.27 sq mi (62.85 km2) |
| • Land | 24.12 sq mi (62.47 km2) |
| • Water | 0.15 sq mi (0.38 km2) 0.63% |
| Elevation | 351 ft (107 m) |
| Population | |
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• Total
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79,871 |
| • Rank | 109th in California 444th in the U.S. |
| • Density | 3,300/sq mi (1,300/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC−8 (PST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−7 (PDT) |
| ZIP Codes |
94566, 94568, 94588
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| Area code | 925 |
| FIPS code | 06-57792 |
| GNIS feature IDs | 277578, 2411441 |
| Website | www |
Pleasanton is a city in Alameda County, California, United States. Located in the Amador Valley, it is an upscale suburb in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. The population was 79,871 at the 2020 census.[5] In 2005 and 2007, Pleasanton was ranked the wealthiest middle-sized city in the United States by the Census Bureau.[6][7] Pleasanton is home to the headquarters of Safeway, Workday, Ellie Mae, Roche Molecular Diagnostics, Blackhawk Network Holdings, Veeva Systems, and Simpson Manufacturing Company. Other major employers include Kaiser Permanente, Oracle and Macy's.[8] Although Oakland is the Alameda County seat, a few county offices are located in Pleasanton. The Alameda County Fairgrounds are located in Pleasanton, where the county fair is held during the last week of June and the first week of July. Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park is located on the west side of town.
The Amador-Livermore Valley, where Pleasanton is located, was home to tribes in the Ohlone language group, mainly speaking Chochenyo.[9] As of the 1770s seven tribes were present in the valley: the Causen, Pelnen, Seunen, Ssaoan, Ssouyen, Taunan, and Yulien.[9] Each had a territory about 10 miles across, living in villages of 60-90 people.[9] The total population of the valley was about 2000-2500 people.[9]
The first Spanish expedition reached the Amador-Livermore Valley in 1772.[10] Native people from the valley began to join Mission Santa Clara, founded in 1777, in small numbers by the 1790s.[10] Large groups began joining missions after Mission San Jose was founded in 1797.[10]
After Mexico's independence from Spain in 1821, the missions were secularized, the Native people being emancipated and the land given in the form of ranchos to Spanish and Mexican colonists.[10] Pleasanton is located on the lands of the Rancho Valle de San José and Rancho Santa Rita Mexican land grants.[11]
Before the establishment of Pleasanton in the 1850s, an earlier settlement in the location was called Alisal. It was located on the lands of the Rancho Santa Rita[12] near the site of a Native American ranchera, around the Francisco Solano Alviso Adobe called El Alisal (The Sycamores),[13] one of the earliest houses built in the valley in 1844. It is still standing and serves as the centerpiece of the Alviso Adobe Community Park. Alisal, nicknamed "The Most Desperate Town in the West", was one of the settlements located along La Vereda del Monte that was a haunt and refuge of bandits and desperados in the era following the beginning of the California Gold Rush. Main Street shootouts were not uncommon.[citation needed] Banditos such as Claudio Feliz and Joaquin Murrieta ambushed prospectors on their way back from the gold rush fields and then sought refuge in Alisal. In the 1860s Procopio, Narciso Bojorques and others took refuge there.[citation needed] Alisal Elementary School reflects the city's original name.
The Rancho Valle de San José grant had been given to Agustín and Juan Pablo Bernal and their brothers-in-law Antonio Suñol and Antonio Maria Pico.[10][when?] In order to safeguard the grant from squatters during the Gold Rush in the 1840s-1850s, the Bernal family moved[when?] from San José to live on their ranch along with John Kottinger, an Austrian immigrant and a lawyer who had married into the family.[10]
Pleasanton is located on the lands of the Rancho Valle de San José and Rancho Santa Rita Mexican land grants. Its name was chosen in the 1860s by John W. Kottinger, an Alameda County justice of the peace, after his friend, Union army cavalry Major General Alfred Pleasonton. A typographical error by a recording clerk in Washington, D.C., apparently led to the current spelling.[11]
In 1917, Pleasanton was the backdrop for the film Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm, starring Mary Pickford.[14] The town was once home to Phoebe Apperson Hearst, who lived in a 50-room mansion on a 2,000 acres (8.1 km2) estate, now the site of Castlewood Country Club.[15]
Radum Plant was a sand and gravel plant opened in 1931 by Henry J. Kaiser Co., at Radum train station, one mile east of Pleasanton.[16][17][18]
After World War II, Pleasanton changed from being primarily focused on farming and ranching to being a bedroom community and a place for corporate headquarters due to major growth of the Bay Area.[19]
Pleasanton is adjacent to Hayward, Livermore, and Dublin. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 24.3 square miles (63 km2), of which 24.1 square miles (62 km2) is land and 0.2 square miles (0.52 km2) (0.63%) is water. On the east side of town on Stanley Blvd. near the Livermore border is Shadow Cliffs Regional Park, a lake that permits swimming, fishing, and boating. On the west side is the Pleasanton Ridge with two parks, Pleasanton Ridge and Augustin Bernal Park. Much of Pleasanton is drained by the Arroyo Valle and Arroyo Mocho watercourses. Pleasanton lies along the route of the historic First transcontinental railroad.
Pleasanton features a Mediterranean climate, featuring hot, dry summers and mild to cool winters with occasional rainfall (Köppen climate classification Csa). The highest recorded temperature was 115 °F (46 °C) in 1950. The lowest recorded temperature was 17 °F (−8 °C) in 1990.[20]
| Climate data for Pleasanton, California | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 75 (24) |
80 (27) |
88 (31) |
96 (36) |
104 (40) |
113 (45) |
112 (44) |
112 (44) |
115 (46) |
106 (41) |
90 (32) |
79 (26) |
115 (46) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 58 (14) |
62 (17) |
65 (18) |
71 (22) |
77 (25) |
84 (29) |
89 (32) |
89 (32) |
86 (30) |
78 (26) |
65 (18) |
57 (14) |
73 (23) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 37 (3) |
40 (4) |
42 (6) |
44 (7) |
48 (9) |
53 (12) |
55 (13) |
55 (13) |
53 (12) |
48 (9) |
42 (6) |
37 (3) |
46 (8) |
| Record low °F (°C) | 17 (−8) |
23 (−5) |
22 (−6) |
29 (−2) |
32 (0) |
30 (−1) |
36 (2) |
40 (4) |
35 (2) |
29 (−2) |
23 (−5) |
18 (−8) |
17 (−8) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.99 (76) |
2.77 (70) |
2.47 (63) |
0.96 (24) |
0.43 (11) |
0.09 (2.3) |
0.03 (0.76) |
0.08 (2.0) |
0.24 (6.1) |
0.84 (21) |
1.88 (48) |
2.04 (52) |
14.48 (368) |
| Source 1: The Weather Channel[20] | |||||||||||||
| Source 2: Weather Atlas[21] | |||||||||||||
| Census | Pop. | Note | %± |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1870 | 350 | — | |
| 1880 | 600 | 71.4% | |
| 1890 | 984 | 64.0% | |
| 1900 | 1,100 | 11.8% | |
| 1910 | 1,254 | 14.0% | |
| 1920 | 991 | −21.0% | |
| 1930 | 1,237 | 24.8% | |
| 1940 | 1,278 | 3.3% | |
| 1950 | 2,244 | 75.6% | |
| 1960 | 4,203 | 87.3% | |
| 1970 | 18,328 | 336.1% | |
| 1980 | 35,160 | 91.8% | |
| 1990 | 50,533 | 43.7% | |
| 2000 | 63,654 | 26.0% | |
| 2010 | 70,285 | 10.4% | |
| 2020 | 79,871 | 13.6% | |
| 2023 (est.) | 76,459 | [22] | −4.3% |
| U.S. Decennial Census[23] | |||
The 2020 United States census[24] reported that Pleasanton had a population of 79,871. The population density was 2,896.5 inhabitants per square mile (1,118.3/km2).
There were 25,245 households, out of which 10,785 (42.7%) had children under the age of 18 living in them, 16,206 (64.2%) were opposite-sex married couples living together, 2,024 (8.0%) had a female householder with no husband present, 948 (3.8%) had a male householder with no wife present. There were 887 (3.5%) unmarried opposite-sex partnerships, and 156 (0.6%) same-sex married couples or partnerships. Of the households, 4,860 (19.3%) were made up of individuals, and 1,853 (7.3%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.77. There were 19,178 families (76.0% of all households); the average family size was 3.20.
There were 26,053 housing units at an average density of 1,073.7 units per square mile (414.6 units/km2), of which 25,245 were occupied, of which 17,891 (70.9%) were owner-occupied, and 7,354 (29.1%) were occupied by renters. The homeowner vacancy rate was 0.9%; the rental vacancy rate was 4.1%. 51,839 people (73.8% of the population) lived in owner-occupied housing units and 17,990 people (25.6%) lived in rental housing units.
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This section needs additional citations for verification. (July 2009)
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Pleasanton experienced a major economic boom starting in the early 1980s, largely associated with the development of a number of business parks, the largest of which is the Hacienda Business Park. These host a number of campus-like clusters of low-rise and medium-rise office buildings. Pleasanton has been successful in attracting a number of corporate headquarters, such as those of Safeway, Blackhawk Network Holdings, Workday, Simpson Manufacturing, The Cooper Companies and Shaklee. Despite an increase in office space vacancy rates in 2000–2004, economic development has remained strong through the middle of the decade.
Pleasanton was also the headquarters of the former PeopleSoft, Inc. (which was acquired by Oracle Corporation), Documentum (which was acquired by EMC Corporation), Thoratec (now part of Abbott), E-Loan (which was acquired by Popular), Spreckels Sugar Company (which was acquired by Imperial Holly), Ross Stores (which moved to nearby Dublin in 2014), Patelco Credit Union (also moved to Dublin) and the home loan operation of Providian (which was acquired by Washington Mutual, itself later acquired by JPMorgan Chase). Oracle occupies two buildings of the former PeopleSoft campus. In addition, Pleasanton is the site of a large AT&T campus.
Other companies with major operations in Pleasanton include Hitachi High Technologies America, Inc., Cisco Systems, QASource, Sage Software (Accpac, etc.), CooperVision, Clorox, Fireside Bank (closed in 2012), Roche, BMC Software, Zoho Corporation, Applied Biosystems, EMC Corporation, Portrait Displays, Inc. and Broadcom Inc.
In retail operations, Pleasanton has one major regional mall (Stoneridge Shopping Center) and a number of other shopping centers. In addition to the business parks and retail centers, Pleasanton is known for its downtown, which is home to a number of fine-dining, casual, and ethnic restaurants, specialty retailers, and service businesses. A redesign of Main Street in the 1990s emphasized pedestrian traffic and outdoor dining.
In 2005, the median household income in Pleasanton was $101,022, the highest income for any city with a population between 65,000 and 249,999 people.[6] Similarly, for 2007, the median household income rose to $113,345, also the highest in the category.[7] According to City-Data.com, the median household income had risen to $121,622 by 2013, compared to a statewide median of $60,190.[26]
According to the Bay East Association of Realtors, the median price of a detached single family home was $1,795,000 as of August 2021.[27] According to Zillow.com, the median home value in Pleasanton was $1,500,415 as of September 2021.[28]
According to the city, as of July 2024 the top fifteen employers in Pleasanton are:[8]
| # | Employer | Employees |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Workday | 5,399 |
| 2 | Kaiser Permanente | 3,019 |
| 3 | Pleasanton Unified School District | 1,373 |
| 4 | Safeway | 1,348 |
| 5 | Stanford Health Care Tri-Valley | 1,124 |
| 6 | Veeva Systems | 945 |
| 7 | Roche Molecular Diagnostics | 927 |
| 8 | Oracle Corporation | 882 |
| 9 | 10x Genomics | 600 |
| 10 | Life Technologies | 579 |
| 11 | ICE Mortgage Technology | 548 |
| 12 | SMM Facilities Inc | 442 |
| 13 | Blackhawk Network Holdings | 383 |
| 14 | Clorox Services Company | 369 |
| 15 | Sensiba San Filippo, LLP | 331 |
Pleasanton maintains regular events for the community. Every Saturday morning a farmers' market sets up on Angela, off Main Street. There are several parades during the year, commemorating Christmas, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day, as well as kicking off the beginning of the Alameda County Fair and soccer season.
Beginning in the late 1990s, the Pleasanton Downtown Association organized the popular First Wednesday celebrations from May through September of each year. On the first Wednesday of summer months, Main Street was blocked to traffic and adopted a street fair atmosphere. Each First Wednesday celebration was given a theme and planned with related activities. At this local event, businesses and organizations from downtown and around the Tri-Valley set up booths in the center of the street. A local band performed in the Inklings coffee house parking lot, which was closed off for dancing. The parking lot was also set up as a beergarden, with beer and wine available for consumption.[29] In 2017, the association announced it was discontinuing the events, and was considering other types of events in future years.[30]
Another Pleasanton Downtown Association tradition is the Friday Concerts in the Park series. Every Friday from June until September the PDA schedules different local bands to perform in the evenings at the Lions' Wayside Park off of First Street. The events are free of charge and draw a crowd.[31] Additional seating for 'Concerts in the Park' is available at Delucchi Park, at the intersection of First Street and Neal Street.
The Alameda County Fairgrounds is a 270-acre (110 ha) facility located in Pleasanton. It is home to the annual Alameda County Fair, held since 1912,[32] as well as numerous trade shows and community events including but not limited to the Scottish Games which occur annually on Labor Day weekend. Located on its grounds, the Pleasanton Fairgrounds Racetrack was built in 1858, making it the oldest 1-mile (1.6 km) horse racing track in the United States. There is a 3,000 seat amphitheater, as well as a nine-hole golf course located within the track's infield.
The Alameda County Central Railroad Society has maintained a model train exhibit at the fairgrounds since 1959.[33]
Because of the preservation of Pleasanton's historic downtown area, many examples of architectural styles dating back to the mid-19th century exist. Buildings in Gothic Revival, Pioneer, Italianate, Commercial Italianate, Colonial Revival, and Queen Anne styles can be found within walking distance of each other.
One of the icons of downtown Pleasanton is the Kolln Hardware building, located at 600 Main Street. It is designed in the Commercial Italianate style, but the prominent five-sided corner tower and a few other features are indicative of the Colonial Revival style. The structure mixes in a little bit of Queen Anne design in the tower and gable. This building was built in 1890 and has always housed a hardware store, first by the Lewis Brothers, then Cruikshank and Kolln. The hardware store has been known as Kolln Hardware since 1933. In 2004, the Kolln Hardware business shut its doors. Bud Cornett, a Pleasanton developer, purchased the landmark and has invested in its renovation and earthquake retrofit.[34] After more than 100 years of serving the community as a hardware store, the space is now occupied by Comerica Bank.[35]
The Firehouse Arts Center, opened in 2010, is a center of culture and art for Pleasanton. It features a 221-seat theater, the Harrington art gallery, and classrooms for art and drama.
Hacienda del Pozo de Verona (The House of the Wellhead of Verona) was destroyed in a fire in 1969. The house was built by architect A. C. Schweinfurth for Phoebe Hearst in 1898.[36] Phoebe Apperson Hearst had the hacienda remodeled and expanded by architect Julia Morgan for use as her primary residence after her husband died. The estate was built upon a 453-acre (1.83 km2) rancheria obtained in 1886 by George Hearst, who intended to use the location for a race horse farm.[37] Its name was inspired by the circular, carved marble wellhead purchased by Phoebe and William in Verona, Italy and installed in the middle of the courtyard. The hacienda was the only female-owned estate to be mentioned in Porter Garnett's Stately Homes of California. The architecture of the hacienda has been called California Mission style by various sources. The original architect used the term "provincial Spanish Renaissance",[38] while Garnett wrote it would be more accurately called "Hispano-Moresque".[39] Moorish influence was found throughout the estate, such as in the guardhouses which stood on either side of the courtyard entrance.[40] The hacienda was topped by imported red Spanish tiles and had undecorated walls of white stucco. After Phoebe's death in 1919, William had the wellhead and other furniture and objects moved to Hearst Castle at San Simeon and sold the estate.[40]
Pleasanton operates under a council–manager form of municipal government. The council consists of four representatives elected by district and one directly elected mayor. The councilors are each elected to a four-year term, while the mayor serves a two-year term. Council and mayoral elections are non-partisan. The vice mayor is appointed each calendar year by the mayor. The mayor and council members are limited to a maximum term of eight years.[41]
The city council consists of: Karla Brown (mayor), Valerie Arkin, Jack Balch, Jeffrey Nibert, and Julie Testa.[2] The city manager is Gerry Beaudin.
In the state legislature Pleasanton is in the 7th Senate District, represented by Democrat Jesse Arreguín until 2024, when it will be in the 5th Senate District, represented by Democrat Jerry McNerney, who will be termed out.[42] In the state assembly Pleasanton is in the 16th Assembly District, represented by Democrat Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and the 20th Assembly District, represented by Democrat Liz Ortega.[43] Federally, Pleasanton is in California's 14th congressional district, represented by Democrat Eric Swalwell.[44]
Pleasanton has 44,099 registered voters with 17,021 (39.2%) registered as Democrats, 11,338 (25.7%) registered as Republicans, and 13,867 (31.4%) Decline to State voters.[45]
For the majority of Pleasanton, the public schools are part of the Pleasanton Unified School District.[48] Pleasanton USD formed in 1988 when the school districts of Pleasanton and Dublin unified along city lines.[49] A very small portion of Pleasanton lies in the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District.[48]
Pleasanton's two comprehensive high schools, Amador Valley and Foothill, are ranked by Niche among the top 200 public high schools in the nation.[50][51] Pleasanton also has a continuation high school, Village High School. As of 2024, the district also contained Thomas S. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton Middle School and Harvest Park Middle School along with nine elementary schools, one preschool, and an adult education program.[52]
The Pleasanton Weekly is a local newspaper.[53] Tri-Valley Community Television operates their sole station in Pleasanton.
Pleasanton is situated at the crossroads of two major Interstate Highways, I-580 and I-680, which mirror the historic cross-routes of Native American tribes who used the precursor paths as major trading routes. This fact was first discovered with the excavations for Hacienda Business Park, revealing significant tribal artifacts and human skeletal remains.[54]
The city is served by two stations on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) heavy rail system's Blue Line, which runs along the northern boundary of the city:
The Altamont Corridor Express rail service stops near Pleasanton's downtown at Pleasanton Station.
The Wheels (LAVTA) bus transit system is the primary provider of bus service in Pleasanton (with numerous routes in the city), and connects Pleasanton to Livermore and Dublin, along with the above three stations.[55]
Express routes from Pleasanton station and Dublin/Pleasanton station to San Ramon and Walnut Creek are provided by County Connection.[56]
Pleasanton's closest airport is Livermore Municipal Airport, which is primarily used for general aviation and charter flights; there is no regularly-scheduled commercial service. The closest commercial airports are San Jose International Airport, which is reachable by the Altamont Corridor Express, and Oakland International Airport, which can be reached directly through BART. The majority of international flights serving the region operate from San Francisco International Airport, also accessible via BART.
People from Pleasanton include:
cite book: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)cite web: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
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Real estate agents and real estate brokers are people who represent sellers or buyers of real estate or real property. While a broker may work independently, an agent usually works under a licensed broker to represent clients.[1] Brokers and agents are licensed by the state to negotiate sales agreements and manage the documentation required for closing real estate transactions.
A real estate broker typically receives a real estate commission for successfully completing a sale. Across the U.S, this commission can generally range between 5-6% of the property's sale price for a full-service broker but this percentage varies by state and even region.[2]
In most jurisdictions in the United States, a person must have a license to perform licensed activities, and these activities are defined within the statutes of each state. The main feature of the requirement for having a license to perform those activities is the work done "for compensation". Hence, hypothetically, if a person wants to help a friend out in either selling or buying a property, and no compensation of any kind is expected in return, then a license is not needed to perform all the work. However, since most people would expect to be compensated for their efforts and skills, a license would be required by law before a person may receive remuneration for services rendered as a real estate broker or agent. Unlicensed activity is illegal and the state real estate commission has the authority to fine people who are acting as real estate licensees, but buyers and sellers acting as principals in the sale or purchase of real estate are usually not required to be licensed. It is important to note that in some states, lawyers handle real estate sales for compensation without being licensed as brokers or agents. However, even lawyers can only perform real estate activities that are incidental to their original work as a lawyer. It cannot be the case that a lawyer can become a seller's selling agent if that is all the service that is being requested by the client. Lawyers would still need to be licensed as a broker if they wish to perform licensed activities. Nevertheless, lawyers do get a break in the minimum education requirements (for example, 90 hours in Illinois).[3]
Some other states have recently eliminated the salesperson's license, instead, all licensees in those states automatically earn their broker's license.
The term "agent" is not to be confused with salesperson or broker. An agent is simply a licensee that has entered into an agency relationship with a client. A broker can also be an agent for a client. It is commonly the firm that has the actual legal relationship with the client through one of their sales staff, be they salespersons or brokers.
In all states, the real estate licensee must disclose to prospective buyers and sellers the nature of their relationship [4]
Some U.S. state real estate commissions – notably Florida's[5] after 1992 (and extended in 2003) and Colorado's[6] after 1994 (with changes in 2003) created the option of having no agency or fiduciary relationship between brokers and sellers or buyers.
As noted by the South Broward Board of Realtors, Inc. in a letter to State of Florida legislative committees:
"The Transaction Broker crafts a transaction by bringing a willing buyer and a willing seller together and provides the legal documentation of the details of the legal agreement between the same. The Transaction Broker is not a fiduciary of any party, but must abide by the law as well as professional and ethical standards." (such as NAR Code of Ethics).
The result was that, in 2003, Florida created a system where the default brokerage relationship had "all licensees ... operating as transaction brokers, unless a single agent or no brokerage relationship is established, in writing, with the customer"[7][8] and the statute required written disclosure of the transaction brokerage relationship to the buyer or seller customer only through July 1, 2008.
In the case of both Florida[8] and Colorado,[6] dual agency and sub-agency (where both listing and selling agents represent the seller) no longer exist.
Other brokers and agents may focus on representing buyers or tenants in a real estate transaction. However, licensing as a broker or salesperson authorizes the licensee to legally represent parties on either side of a transaction and providing the necessary documentation for the legal transfer of real property. This business decision is for the licensee to decide. They are fines for people acting as real estate agents when not licensed by the state.
In the United Kingdom, an estate agent is a person or business entity whose business is to market real estate on behalf of clients. There are significant differences between the actions, powers, obligations, and liabilities of brokers and estate agents in each country, as different countries take markedly different approaches to the marketing and selling of real property.
Before the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) was introduced in 1967, when brokers (and their licensees) only represented sellers by providing a service to provide legal documentation on the transfer real property, the term "real estate salesperson" may have been more appropriate than it is today, given the various ways that brokers and licensees now help buyers through the legal process of transferring real property. Legally, however, the term "salesperson" is still used in many states to describe a real estate licensee.[citation needed]
After gaining some years of experience in real estate sales, a salesperson may decide to become licensed as a real estate broker (or Principal/qualifying broker) in order to own, manage, or operate their own brokerage. In addition, some states allow college graduates to apply for a broker's license without years of experience. College graduates fall into this category once they have completed the state-required courses as well. California allows licensed attorneys to become brokers upon passing the broker exam without having to take the requisite courses required of an agent. Commonly more coursework and a broker's state exam on real estate law must be passed. Upon obtaining a broker's license, a real estate agent may continue to work for another broker in a similar capacity as before (often referred to as a broker associate or associate broker) or take charge of their own brokerage and hire other salespersons (or broker licensees). Becoming a branch office manager may or may not require a broker's license. Some states allow licensed attorneys to become real estate brokers without taking any exam. In some states, there are no "salespeople" as all licensees are brokers.[9]
Real Estate Services are also called trading services [10]
Flat-fee real estate agents charge a seller of a property a flat fee, $500 for example,[11] as opposed to a traditional or full-service real estate agent who charges a percentage of the sale price. In exchange, the seller's property will appear in the multiple listing service (MLS), but the seller will represent him or herself when showing the property and negotiating a sales price.[11] The result is the seller pays less commission overall (roughly half) when the property sells.[11] This is because a seller will pay a percentage of the sales price to a buyer's agent but not have to pay a percentage to a seller's agent (because there isn't one; the seller is representing himself).
In consideration of the brokerage successfully finding a buyer for the property, a broker anticipates receiving a commission for the services the brokerage has provided. Usually, the payment of a commission to the brokerage is contingent upon finding a buyer for the real estate, the successful negotiation of a purchase contract between the buyer and seller, or the settlement of the transaction and the exchange of money between buyer and seller. Under common law, a real estate broker is eligible to receive their commission, regardless of whether the sale actually takes place, once they secure a buyer who is ready, willing, and able to purchase the dwelling.[12]
Economist Steven D. Levitt famously argued in his 2005 book Freakonomics that real estate brokers have an inherent conflict of interest with the sellers they represent because their commission gives them more motivation to sell quickly than to sell at a higher price. Levitt supported his argument with a study finding brokers tend to put their own houses on the market for longer and receive higher prices for them compared to when working for their clients. He concluded that broker commissions will reduce in future.[13] A 2008 study by other economists found that when comparing brokerage without listing services, brokerage significantly reduced the average sale price.[14]
Real estate brokers who work with lenders can not receive any compensation from the lender for referring a residential client to a specific lender. To do so would be a violation of a United States federal law known as the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA). RESPA ensures that buyers and sellers are given adequate notice of the Real Estate settlement process.[15]
In the United States, the term realtor is trademarked by the National Association of Realtors, which uses it to refer to its active members, who may be real estate agents or brokers.[16][17][18] In Canada, the trademark is used by members of the Canadian Real Estate Association.[19] Both organizations advise against the use of realtor as a generic synonym for real estate agent.[19]
States issue licenses for an annual or multi-year period and require real estate agents and brokers to complete continuing education prior to renewing their licenses. For example, California licensees must complete 45 hours of continuing education every 4 years in topics such as agency, trust fund handling, consumer protection, fair housing, ethics, and risk management.[20]
Several notable groups exist to promote the real estate industry and to assist professionals.
Media related to Real estate agents at Wikimedia Commons
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Non-stop spam calls from this guy. Stop calling me!!
Ralph Hurtado has been my realtor for over 12 years and I have referred him to all my family and friends. Personally, he has helped me sell 3 and purchase 2 of my homes. He is honest, hard working, and someone who has high integrity and morals. When I asked for his guidance on whether we should sell my parents' home which would result in a pretty large commission payment to him, he proposed that we rent it out for a few years first before putting it on the market in order to save us money. Ralph will always put his client's interest first over his own because he genuinely cares about you. He has also made each sale or purchase stress free for me because he helps coordinate everything behind the scenes like scheduling the home inspection, house cleaning, photography, staging, etc. He keeps me informed on every stage of the process. I can call or text him numerous times throughout the day and he will respond within minutes. Even when it was a buyer's market, he manages to secure the best terms and prices for my properties, often receiving asking price or above asking. I have never worked with anyone who has gone above and beyond like he has. Ralph is an expert in his field and I highly recommend him for all of your real estate needs.
Had very little to do with real estate agents before meeting Ralph Hurtado. I was a general contractor, acquiring the land and building houses during the week and preferred to put my for sale signs out and sell them on the weekend myself. Constant increasingly complicated real estate contracts that were difficult for me to understand and the advent of a growing real estate fraternity with their sophisticated methods of advertising, etc., convinced me that employing a real estate agent would be the best method to get the highest sale's price while staying out of legal problems. I interviewed many real estate agents that I saw around town before choosing Ralph Hurtado to sell my house in Union City. I did what Ralph told me to do to the house that would give it the most sale's appeal and we set ( mostly him ) the sale's price accordingly. Obtained a buyer in a short amount of time at full sales price. I was very happy with the outcome, don't think I left anything on the table concerning the sale's price and I liked the ease of that transaction so much that I had Ralph find a duplex in San Leandro that I bought and renovated. Again I was also very satisfied with the outcome. What I like about Ralph is that he is always available ( not two days later as often is the case these days ) to respond to concerns and questions that I have about real estate. For instance, how much do I increase the rent on my rental units. He keeps me informed on what is happening in the real estate world. For instance, he encouraged me for renters to get rental insurance because protects both landlord and renter. In fact, he must get tired of all my questions, but never does. Square shooter who covers all my bases; therefore, he is and will continue to be my real estate agent..
The value of your home depends on location, condition, current market trends and comparable sales of similar properties. In order to get a fairly accurate picture of the current market value of your home, I would recommend either I come out and do a 15 minute walk through and can offer a no obligation Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) – contact me today!
Every sale comes with certain difficulties which demand decisions to be made one sale at a time. However, for starters: Ensure you have clear goals and expectations of the sale you want to achieve on the home. Know what is going on in the local market and know your list price. Prepare your home (clean, de-clutter, repairs list, stage). Set up a process for showing the property to potential buyers and stick to a schedule. (As much as you can make it easy for buyers to view). Post with professional marketing (photos, videos, online exposure). Act on and negotiate on the offers you get and do so quickly. Know the close of escrow timeline.
The real estate agent receives his or her fee based on the sale of the property. First of all, brokers keep the same price for the service no matter how your house has been sold and you include the fact you have found the buyer yourself. Our system offers you total choice. On the other hand, there is an idea; don’t pay for something you might not require. Our fee structure is flexible and tailored to your specific situation, which means you only pay for what you use.
An appraisal is a professional evaluation conducted by a licensed appraiser to determine a home's market value. It is required by lenders to ensure the home is worth the purchase price amount and protects both the buyer and lender from overpaying. Factors influencing an appraisal include recent comparable sales, home condition, location, and market trends. If the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, buyers may renegotiate the price with the seller, challenge the appraisal, or increase their down payment to meet the lender’s requirements.
Yes! Some strategies are contingent offers, bridge loans, and rent backs. I am a specialist at smooth transitions—what will I do next?
The following are considered fixed items and will usually remain with the house; light fixtures, built-in appliances, window treatments, and landscaping. The personal items such as furniture and decorations can only be removed except for the situations mentioned above or the buyer can be allowed to do so or the items can be sold during the escrow period.
In 2024, the average time it took for homes in Tri-Valley & Tri-city areas to sell was 17 days. The time from listing to sale varies with market conditions, price, and home condition.
A seller disclosure is a legal requirement that provides information to the buyer about the property. These may be structural issues, water damage, previous repairs, environmental hazards, or even neighborhood conditions that may affect the value of the home. To protect both the buyer and the seller in the transaction, sellers in California are required to provide full transparency. It is important to note that not disclosing material defects is legal consequences. The disclosures are usually in the form of standard reports which are the Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS) and the Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) report. It is therefore important to read these documents and understand their content before making a purchase decision.
An as-is sale indicates the home remains in its present state and the seller provides no guarantees about its condition. The scope of work could attract investors or buyers who seek projects but has two drawbacks: it restricts buyer demand and influences the market price. While most homebuyers will require inspections which can lead to a re-negotiation of price based on repairs required, there are situations where the as-is sale can be quite useful. Those who want to avoid the process of repair and restoration before they can make a profit off of a home may find it helpful to understand the implications of an as-is sale.
Sellers can do a pre-listing inspection to uncover issues before listing. Buyers also have the right to pay for and should be advised to get their own inspections.
No. However, staging makes houses sell more quickly and bring in higher prices. To really make a home shine and help it sell quickly, focus your staging efforts on the living room, kitchen and master bedroom. Some strategies can help you make your home really appealing!
1. Clean house thoroughly and remove all clutter. (Exterior pressure washing and window cleaning.) 2. Make small repairs (This makes the buyer believe the home has been well taken care of.) 3. Improve the look of the outside (If a buyer has to like the exterior first, then they will have to walk in and they will have to continue liking what they are seeing)) 4. Stage key rooms (Staging makes the buyer have a vision of living in your property)
We serve the following areas: Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara Counties.
Home buying & selling, Probate & Trust sales, Real Estate Investing, Market Analysis & Pricing Strategy.
Call 877-740-0009, or book online at ralphhurtado.com
Yes, I can assist you with that. I can assist you with getting pre-approved for a mortgage and even help you compare and find the best mortgage rates.
For example, I perform a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) using similar sales, current market trends, and property condition to come up with a value or pricing. However, each property is unique in its value based on factors that include location, architectural style, upgrades, and neighborhood desirarity. No two homes are exactly the same and that's why I take detailed approach to pricing. I make sure that your home value is well portrayed in the current market through the use of comparable sales analysis and including distinctive features. The listing price is at the discretion of the sellers, based on their objectives and market situation, and the final sales price is determined by the buyers through their bids and negotiation. There are appropriate strategies for pricing a property that will increase the chances of more people being interested and as a result, the sale price being higher.
Here is our business hours M-F 8 AM–6:30 PM, Sat 8 AM–6 PM, Sun 8 AM–5:30 PM
Call 877-740-0009, or book online at ralphhurtado.com
Yes! I provide video walkthroughs for buyers.
I've been selling Real Estate since 2004.
Homes sell in about 17 days, depending on pricing and market conditions.
Yes! Check out client reviews on ralphhurtado.com, LinkedIn, Zillow, Etc.
Real estate markets never stand still because they are in a constant state of change. I can share some general trends and information, but then that can be misleading because every home and neighborhood has certain factors that make it special and therefore its value and desirosity. General market reports may not capture the detailed dynamics of your property or local market. To help you make informed decisions, I offer a unique market analysis based on your goals, so you can better navigate the market whether it’s rising or falling. Just contact me to find out what’s happening in your neighborhood and property.
Yes! New communities, shopping centers, and infrastructure projects are underway. Contact me for the latest updates!
Pleasanton, Livermore & Dublin are warmer in the summer months, while those closer to the bay have cooler temperatures and occasional fog. I believe the city of Hayward brings a balance to both.
Yes! Dublin has a new major development Dublin Centre (The DC) by Landsea Homes, which will provide 500 homes in a master plan community. This will also increase the housing stock in the city. Pleasanton, however, has no large new residential projects at this time but still concentrates on improving the infrastructure and the community.
The old Pleasanton refers to the historical downtown area of the city: Old buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s Local events such as farmers’ markets and parades It has small businesses, cafes and boutique shops. New Pleasanton comprises of the newly developed suburban neighborhoods which include: New housing communities with new and improved facilities New and large commercial centers and business parks Wider and better maintained roads and public infrastructure
Conventional Loan: Down payment ranges between 3-5% FHA Loan: The minimum down payment is 3.5% Jumbo Loan (for higher priced homes): 20% down payment is the norm Down Payment Assistance: There is a program in Pleasanton that provides up to $100,000 to first time home buyers.
Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station: Dublin: The Boulevard (a new community) West Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station: Dublin: Homes along Amador Valley Blvd.
Pre-Qualification: Based on financial information supplied by the client Fast and loose, not verified in any way It provides a very approximate idea of the amount one can spend. Pre-Approval: Involves providing financial information including W-2s, tax returns, and credit report More credible, as it is backed by the lender. Pre-approval makes you a more desirable buyer. You can consider pre-qualification as an estimate and pre-approval as a lender’s official commitment.
Birdland – Close to top-rated schools and parks Valley Trails – There are a lot of space and a good neighborhood spirit Vintage Hills – The neighborhood offers beautiful views and easy access to trails Ponderosa – Shopping and recreational facilities are easily accessible All these neighborhoods have good schools, parks and a family atmosphere.
School Districts – The presence of high quality schools raise the value of the homes Commute – How close to work, BART, or highway. Neighborhood Amenities – These include parks, trails, shopping centers. Future Development – Look for developments that are likely to be built in the near future that may have an impact on the value of the property. Market Trends – It is wise to know the price trends so as to invest wisely.
YES. Structural defects (foundation, roof, etc.) Pest infestations (termite, rodents) Water damage (leaks, flooding, mold) Environmental hazards (asbestos, lead paint, radon) Neighborhood issues (ongoing construction, noise pollution). It is important to disclose all information to avoid the seller from incurring legal consequences in the future.
Sellers are permitted to demand a second appraisal if they claim that the first one was inaccurate. They cannot make the buyer pay the original price if the appraisal is lower.
The price of the property is then renegotiated. The buyer may pay the difference in cash. The lender will decrease the loan amount to match the appraised value, which means the buyer will have to put up more cash. The buyer can walk away if there is an appraisal contingency.
Consider lifestyle (For example, for families, an open floor plan, for elderly people, single-story house) Provision for future requirements (Growing family, aging in place) Energy efficiency (Some styles are better than others in terms of insulation and energy conservation) Preference (Traditional, Modern, Craftsman, etc.)
Craftsman – It has exposed beams and open porches. Ranch – One level, with an open floor plan. Modern – The features of the home include; large windows, and simple design. Mediterranean – Stuccoed exterior and tile roofs. Each style has its own unique and different advantages and disadvantages to the overall look and use of the home.
As a realtor, I always tell the buyers to come to the house with an open mind and to see how they can use the space. Here are some tips that can help you to imagine yourself living in the home: Visualize your daily schedule – As if you are the owner of the house, walk through each room. Imagine where you will take your morning coffee, where your children will play, and where you will sit after a long day. Think about furniture placement – If the home is staged, you may want to consider how your own furniture would look. Does your sofa fit well in the living room? Does the dining area accommodate your table and chairs? Look at the potential – Paint colors, flooring, and other details can be easily changed. Rather, focus on the structure, the natural light, and the general layout of the house. Step outside – Notice the yard, the patio or the balcony. Can you picture yourself standing in the sun? Drive around the neighborhood – Come at the home at different times of the day and describe the environment. Are the streets quite? Do you feel safe in the area? Listen to your intuition – If the home feels right, it probably is! Sometimes it’s not about perfection but about whether or not you have that feeling of this being the place for you. So, go for it!
Real Estate Agent – A person who is allowed to trade buy and sell real estate properties. Realtor – A real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and has to follow some ethical principles. All Realtors are agents, but not all agents are Realtors.
Living Room – The first impression of the home. Kitchen – Clear the worktops and add some flowers. Master Bedroom – Make it look comfortable and home-like. Bathrooms – Make them clean, light, and like a spa. These are the areas that have the most impact on the buyer when they walk into the house.
