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Kimberly Gates

Compass

CA DRE# 01470998

Honest. Knowledgable. Warm. These are just a few words clients frequently use to describe Kimberly Gates. Born and raised in Southern California, Kimberly was drawn to the natural beauty and vibrancy of the Bay Area and has called the region home for the past 23 years.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful oasis in Alameda, a trendy hotspot in Berkeley, a charming retreat in Oakland, or one of the East Bay's “hidden cities”, Kimberly can help you find the perfect place to live, work, and play—not to mention love.

After earning her Master’s Degree from Harvard University, Kimberly went on to have a successful corporate career with Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, General Electric Homeland Protection, Inc., and served as a governor appointee in the Gray Davis administration.

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  • Dan & Keneth

    “Wow. Wow wow wow. I can't say enough good things about Kimberly! We had bought multiple properties in other states before, so we thought we knew what we were getting into, ...”

  • Berrin & Chris

    “If you’re fortunate enough to work with Kimberly Gates as your agent she will tell you she speaks the truth and she does indeed. From the initial introductory meeting we ...”

  • Ralph

    “Kimberly Gates is a phenomenal realtor. Due to her knowledge, expertise and hard work our home sold quickly and for a record price for the area.”

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Neighborhoods

Oakland

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East Bay Hidden Cities North, South, and West

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West Contra Costa County

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A Little Weekend Eye-Candy! Peace To You & Yours

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Keeping Current Matters

For Buyers

How Experts Can Help Close the Gap in Today’s Homeownership Rate

02/7/23   |   KCM Crew

As we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the past and present experiences of Black Americans. This includes the path toward investing in a home of their own. And while equitable access to housing has come a long way, homeownership can be a steeper climb for households of color. It’s an important experience to talk about, along with how it can make all the difference for diverse homebuyers to work with the right real estate experts.We know it’s more challenging for some to buy a home because there’s still a measurable gap between the overall average U.S. homeownership rate and that of non-white groups. Today, the lowest homeownership rate persists in the Black community (see graph below):Homeownership is an essential piece for building household wealth that can be passed down to future generations. However, there are obstacles in the homebuying process that can negatively impact certain groups. This can delay or prevent many from achieving homeownership, challenging their ability to benefit from everything owning a home offers. A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:“. . . not all [households] have the same opportunities to homeownership, with many of them facing more constraints in their effort to achieve the American Dream. . . . Given that homeownership contributes to wealth accumulation and the homeownership rate is lower in minority groups, data shows that the net worth for these groups is also lower.”However, with the right support and resources, there are solutions if you’re part of this community and planning to buy a home. Jacob Channel, Senior Economist at LendingTree, shares:“The problem does exist. We have data that back that up. But there are solutions, and Black homebuyers shouldn’t lose faith that they’ll never be able to become homeowners.”That’s why it’s so important for members of diverse groups to have the right team of experts on their sides throughout the homebuying process. These professionals aren’t only experienced advisors who understand the local market and give the best advice. They’re also compassionate allies who will advocate for your best interests every step of the way.Bottom Line Access to housing improves every day, but there are still equity challenges that some buyers face. Let’s connect to make sure you have an advocate on your side as you walk the path to homeownership.

For Sellers

The Top Reasons for Selling Your House

02/6/23   |   KCM Crew

Many of today’s homeowners bought or refinanced their homes during the pandemic when mortgage rates were at history-making lows. Since rates doubled in 2022, some of those homeowners put their plans to move on hold, not wanting to lose the low mortgage rate they have on their current house. And while today’s rates have started coming down from last year’s peak, they’re still higher than they were a couple of years ago.Today, 93% of outstanding mortgages have a rate at or below 6%. That means a strong majority of homeowners with mortgages have a rate below what they’d get if they moved right now. But if you’re a homeowner in that position, remember that mortgage rates aren’t the only thing to consider when making a move. Your mortgage rate is important, but there are plenty of reasons you may still need or want to move. RealTrends explains:“Sellers who don’t have to move won’t be moving. The most common sellers will be: Homeowners downsizing . . . people moving to get more space, [households] looking for better schools…etc.”So, if you’re on the fence about selling your house, consider the other reasons homeowners are choosing to make a move. A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) breaks down why homeowners have decided to sell over the past year:As the visual shows, the most commonly cited reasons for selling were the desire to move closer to loved ones, followed by moving due to retirement, and their neighborhood becoming less desirable. Additionally, the need for more space factored in, as did a change in household structure.If you also find yourself wanting a change in location or needing space your current house just can’t provide, it may be time to sell. What you want and need in a home can be reason enough to move. To find out what’s right for you, work with a trusted real estate professional who will offer advice and expert guidance throughout the process. They’ll be able to lay out all your options – giving you what you need to make a confident decision.Bottom Line When deciding whether or not to move, you have a lot to consider. There are plenty of non-financial reasons to factor in. Let’s connect today to weigh the benefits of selling your house.

Work With Kimberly

Kimberly is a long-time Bay Area resident and knows the market intimately. Call Kimberly today to schedule a private showing.

Contact Kimberly

Compass

6211 La Salle Avenue Oakland, CA 94611 CA DRE# 01470998

Kimberly Gates

(510) 421-0488

kimberly.gates@compass.com

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