Greater Sacramento Real Estate

Diane Babcock - Diez & Sigg Properties

Unwrap Our December Newsletter

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Local Events:

 

 

Check out all the December magic happening in our Local Events section above—light shows, Imaginarium, tree-lighting parties, and more! Then keep the festivities rolling with Sacramento’s very own Holiday Lights Guide using the link below.

 

HOLIDAY LIGHTS GUIDE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockings (Soft Whites):

Ornaments & Tree Topper (Champagne Golds):

Wreaths & Garland (Classic Greens):

Candles & Lit Decor (Warm Glow):

Faux Christmas Tree:

Tree Skirts & Collars:

 

Pillows & Throws:

Pro Tip: Stop by HomeGoods for a wide selection of decorative and seasonal pillows on sale.

Holiday Bedding:

Holiday Botanicals:

Candle Accessories:

 

 

Tabletop & Bar:

Mantel Accents:

Small Decorative Touches:

 

September in Sacramento: Local Events, Homes Tips & Market Updates

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Events Calendar:















 

Apple Hill – Harvest Fun: Apple Hill farms are open for the fall season, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy! From apple picking and pumpkin patches to train rides, baked treats, wine tasting, and crisp mountain air, it’s a great way to kick off fall. Plan your Apple Hill experience here.

Great for: apple lovers, cozy fall vibes, family-friendly outings.

Amador County Wineries – Harvest Tours & Live Music: Many wineries host live music on Friday nights and special behind-the-scenes harvest tours—a unique chance to see winemaking in action and taste wine right from the barrel. Plan your outing here.

Great for: wine enthusiasts, seasonal experiences, scenic vineyard vibes.

Half Moon Bay Pumpkin & Fall Festival: Get ready for cozy autumn vibes! While the main Pumpkin & Fall Festival takes place in October, Half Moon Bay kicks off the season early with pumpkin patches, hayrides, and fall-themed activities starting in late September. Learn more here. After your visit, stop by Sam’s Chowder House for a delicious meal with ocean views—famous for their clam chowder and kid-friendly options—ideal for rounding out your coastal escape.

Great for: coastal drive lovers, pumpkin-themed fun with fewer crowds.

Lake Tahoe – Early Fall Foliage Views: Mid-to-late September is often when Tahoe’s fall colors begin to appear, especially in higher elevations. It’s a quieter time to enjoy golden aspens, mirrored lakes, and peaceful hiking and biking trails before peak foliage crowds arrive. Plan your trip here.

Great for: nature lovers, peaceful scenic trips, early leaf-peeping.

Pumpkin Patch Season is Almost Here: Many Northern California pumpkin patches and mazes are opening in late September. A few favorites include Dave’s Pumpkin Patch with corn mazes and hayrides, Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm with giant slides and train rides, and Fog Willow Farms with a petting zoo and gem mining. For a full list of opening dates and activities at local pumpkin patches, check out this Instagram roundup.

Great for: families, adventurous fall fun, Instagram-worthy moments.

 

Rich Earth Tones: Rust, olive, deep plum, and warm browns are trending. Swap out pillows, table runners, or a throw blanket. Browse Target’s Threshold collection for budget-friendly fall updates.

Layered Textures: Cozy knits, velvet pillows, bouclé fall decor, and natural wood accents make spaces feel inviting and add instant warmth.

Amber Glass & Lanterns: Lighting sets the mood. Amber-toned glassware, or candle holders add a subtle seasonal glow.

Natural Accents: Eucalyptus stems, dried flowers, or even a bowl of Autumn vase filler bring fall indoors.

Warm, Inviting Entryways: Swap doormats, add a seasonal wreath, or place a few pumpkins by the front door to welcome fall guests.

 

 

 

August Scoop: Back to School, Back in Style & Buyer Behavior

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Sacramento Area (And Beyond):

 

 

Utility-First Entryways: Hooks, bins, and drop zones turn your entry into a streamlined space that tames the daily chaos—perfect for corralling jackets, bags, and all the stuff that piles up during the week.

Implement Assigned Organizers: Give each family member a designated spot for their gear—whether it’s backpacks, cleats, or water bottles—to keep the floor (and your sanity) clear.

Utilize Closet Storage: Maximize every inch of your entry closet with layered storage solutions.

Mini Homework & Tech Zones: Even small corners can become productivity hubs with the right setup. Whether it’s for homework, creative projects, or work-from-home needs, these compact solutions make it easy to stay organized and focused—without taking over the whole house.

Bring in Fall Textures & Scents: As the school year kicks off, now’s the time to create a calm, cozy space that helps everyone ease into the new routine. Lightweight layers, natural tones, and subtle seasonal scents offer just the right touch of fall without going full pumpkin spice.

Fridge & Pantry Overhauls: Back to school = back to snacks. Give your kitchen a reset with containers and setups that make meals and grab-and-go bites easier to manage.

 

 

 

Stars Stripes & Summer Vibes: Your July Newsletter is Here

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Sacramento:

  • Athletics vs. Giants: 7:05 p.m. at Sutter Health Park. Postgame fireworks celebration. Details here.
  • Red, White, and Brew: 6 p.m. – midnight at Drake’s: The Barn. Music, DJs, and fireworks viewing. Details here.
  • 4th of July Bike Parade & Festival: 10 a.m. at Arden Park. Parade, food, and live music by Funk Shui Band. Details here.
  • Pocket/Greenhaven Parade: 10 a.m. at the Corner of Woodbridge & South Land Park Drive. Honoring “Unsung Heroes.” Details here.
  • 4th of July River Cruise: See website for cruise times. Enjoy live DJ entertainment and fireworks views on the Sacramento River. Details here.

Auburn:

  • Fireworks Show at Gold Country Fairgrounds: 8:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy the fireworks display. Learn more here.
  • Auburn Parade & Family Festival: 10 a.m. Classic parade down Auburn streets followed by the Family Festival starting at 10:30 a.m. Details here.

Carmichael:

  • Carmichael’s Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. on Fair Oaks Boulevard. Enjoy a lively parade with music and family fun! Learn more here.

Elk Grove:

  • Salute to the Red, White and Blue: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Elk Grove Park (9950 Elk Grove-Florin Road). Enjoy food trucks, live music, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular fireworks show. Learn more here.
  • Run 4 Hunger: 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Participate in a 5K, 10K, or Kids’ Fun Run to support the Elk Grove Food Bank. Learn more here.

Folsom:

  • Folsom Pro Rodeo: July 3-5, 7:30 p.m. at 200 Wool St. Bull riding, barrel racing, and fireworks. Get tickets here.

Lake Tahoe:

  • Lights on the Lake Fireworks: 9:45 p.m. at South Lake Tahoe. Top 5 fireworks show in the nation. Learn more here.
  • Tahoe City Fireworks: 9:30 p.m. at Commons Beach. Free shuttle service, live music, and fireworks. Plan your night here.
  • Incline Fireworks Show: 9:30 p.m. at Incline Beach. Fireworks, pancake breakfast, and BBQ. Details here.

Lincoln:

  • Fourth of July Parade: 9 a.m. in Lincoln. Community parade to kick off the day. Details here.

Rancho Cordova:

  • 40th Annual Rancho Cordova 4th of July Celebration: July 3-4 at Hagan Community Park. Carnival rides, live music, food trucks, and fireworks. Learn more here.

Roseville:

  • Independence Day 5K & Parade: 7:15 a.m. 5K run followed by the annual parade at 9 a.m. Learn more here.
  • Royer Park Festivities: Enjoy food, music, and family fun starting at 10 a.m. Details here.
  • Fireworks Show at @the Grounds: Approximately 9:15 p.m. Spectacular fireworks display. Plan your evening here.

South Sacramento:

  • Fourth of July Carnival: 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Southgate Recreation and Park District. Poolside games, arts & crafts, and snacks. Details here.

Truckee:

  • Downtown Truckee 4th of July Parade: 7 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Free pancake breakfast, parade, and fireworks show. Details here.

Other Notable July Events:

 

 

All-American Bites & Sides:

Star-Spangled Beverages:

Dazzling Desserts:

 

Patriotic Tablescape: Make your table sparkle with a striped table runner, star-studded navy blue linen napkins, festive drinking glasses, and a standout centerpiece.

Lighting: Use soft white string lights or lanterns to create a warm, inviting atmosphere as the evening sets in.

Chic Floral Arrangements: Bring in white hydrangeas, red roses, and blue delphiniums in these simple yet striking glass vases for a sophisticated nod to the holiday.

Stars & Stripes Touches: Add a pop of patriotic charm with Pottery Barn’s outdoor pillows or this cable knit throw—perfect for sprucing up your porch or patio this Fourth of July.

 

 

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Backyard Goals for Memorial Day Weekend

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Thinking of entertaining this weekend? You’re not alone. As Memorial Day kicks off the unofficial start of summer, homes with showstopping outdoor spaces are exactly what today’s buyers are after.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or prep your home to sell, here are a few upgrades worth investing in:

Have an outdoor setup like this? Let’s showcase it. Buyers are shopping for lifestyle just as much as square footage—and a backyard built for summer could be your home’s biggest selling point.

Spring Cleaning = Spring Selling

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Spring is a season of fresh starts, making it the perfect time to sell your home. With warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days, buyers are actively looking for their next home. To make sure your home stands out, a little spring cleaning and preparation can go a long way. Whether you’re listing soon or simply refreshing your space, these key steps will help get your home market-ready.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see. A well-maintained yard and entryway can instantly boost appeal.

  • Refresh garden beds with new mulch and seasonal flowers like tulips or daffodils.
  • Trim hedges and trees to create a clean, polished look.
  • Power wash the driveway, walkway, and siding for a fresh appearance.
  • Repaint the front door or add a stylish new welcome mat to make the entrance more inviting.

Declutter and Deep Clean

Buyers want to envision themselves in a home, and that’s much easier when the space feels clean and open. A thorough deep clean and decluttering session can make a significant impact.

  • Remove unnecessary items from countertops, shelves, and storage spaces to create a sense of openness.
  • Organize closets, pantries, and garages—buyers will look inside.
  • Clean windows, baseboards, and high-touch surfaces to ensure every space looks fresh and well-maintained.
  • Consider a professional carpet cleaning to remove lingering winter dust and odors.

Maximize Natural Light

Bright, airy homes tend to feel more inviting, which can make a lasting impression on buyers.

  • Replace heavy winter drapes with light, sheer curtains to let in more sunlight.
  • Clean windows inside and out to remove dust and streaks.
  • Use mirrors strategically to reflect natural light and make rooms feel larger.
  • Swap dark, heavy decor for neutral or pastel tones to create a fresh, seasonal look.

Tackle Small Repairs

Minor fixes may not seem like a big deal, but buyers notice the details. Addressing small repairs before listing can help prevent red flags during showings.

  • Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and loose cabinet handles.
  • Touch up chipped paint and scuff marks on walls and baseboards.
  • Ensure all lights, fans, and appliances are in working order.
  • Consider updating outdated hardware in kitchens and bathrooms for a modern touch.

Thinking About Selling?

Spring is one of the best times to list a home, and with the right preparation, your property can shine in the market. If you’re considering selling this season, I’d love to help you navigate the process and get top dollar for your home.

Let’s talk about your home’s value and the best strategies to sell this spring.

Diane Babcock

916-768-7600|Contact Diane