In Silicon Valley many of the traditional rules of residential real estate do not apply. Folks coming from other markets are apt to either get burned or scared away!
Here to guide those brave enough to jump into the local real estate market are Jeff Stricker and Steve TenBroeck of Alain Pinel Realtors.
Jeff, the eagle-eyed lawyer, and Steve, the analytic data expert, are skilled at helping their clients prevail in a tough marketplace. Combining a passion for analyzing market conditions with a firm belief that residential real estate simply can’t be reduced to price-per-square-foot analysis, they form a powerful resource for anyone thinking of buying or selling Silicon Valley real estate.
Specializing in the areas of Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View and bordering communities for over 20 years, Jeff and Steve blog regularly about weekly “brokers tours” and economic trends. So, before you head out to open houses on the weekend, you’ll want to bookmark this site to get early access to trends in your area.
For more about Jeff and Steve visit their website: www.JeffAndSteve.com

Hello Jeff and Steve,
We have been looking at some new constructions of townhomes in Palo Alto and Los Altos. Due to limited number of such new properties in these towns, they seem to be selling fast. Would you guys recommend that we hurry in buying or wait for a while hoping that prices will drop next year.
We’ve looked at Altaire, Vantage, and Echelon in Palo Alto and planning to see Peninsula Real in Los Altos. Would you happen to know about any other new townhome construction in Palo Alto or Los Altos?
Do you charge for your services as a buyer agent?
Thanks and Happy Holidays,
– Cyrus
Hello Cyrus
As long as you’re willing and able to hold the property for a minimum of 5 years (always recommended), we believe that “selection” is generally more important in the long run than timing in our area. Not all properties appreciate – or depreciate – at the same rate. Nor do all similarly priced homes provide the same overall satisfaction. It’s a very complicated and financially risky decision which is why most folks rely upon an experienced, knowledgeable, and trustworthy Realtor for guidance. The seller’s broker pays the buyer’s broker in the vast majority of sales. Some new home developments do not “cooperate” with buyer’s brokers, however. It varies from development to development, but at this point in the market cycle, most developments are “cooperating”. Jeff and I would be happy to meet with you to discuss your goals Cyrus.
Best of luck and Happy New Year!
Steve TenBroeck