Tag: Buyers Agent

Coffee Talk | Your Home Equity

Posted on by Liza Muhl
buyer home protection

Your Home Equity: Is it Enough to Move?

If you’ve owned your home for a few years, chances are you’ve built up some equity — and that equity might be the key to unlocking your next move.

What Is Home Equity?

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. As home values have increased in recent years, many homeowners are sitting on more equity than they realize. According to CoreLogic’s Q4 2024 Homeowner Equity Report, the average U.S. homeowner with a mortgage had approximately $303,000 in home equity at the end of 2024 .MBA Newslink

This figure represents a slight decrease from the previous quarter, where the average equity was reported at $311,000. Despite this modest decline, homeowners continue to maintain substantial equity, providing a strong financial foundation for potential moves or other financial decisions.

Can You Use It to Move?

Absolutely. Here are a few ways homeowners are using their equity today:

  • As a down payment on a new home — Selling your current home and using the equity can significantly reduce the mortgage on your next purchase.

  • To pay off debt or improve cash flow — Equity can be used to pay down other obligations, potentially freeing up your budget for a move.

  • To make strategic renovations before listing — Sometimes, a small investment can boost your home’s value even more before you sell.

Key Questions to Ask

Before you decide to move, consider:

  • How much equity do you actually have?
    A local real estate professional can provide a comparative market analysis to estimate your current home’s value.

  • What are your goals for the move?
    Are you looking for more space, a different location, or to downsize and reduce costs?

  • Will your equity cover your next home’s down payment and moving costs?
    It’s important to factor in closing costs, agent commissions, and moving expenses.

The Bottom Line

Your home equity could be your biggest asset — and understanding how to use it is the first step toward achieving your next real estate goal. If you’re curious about your equity, let’s run the numbers together. Whether you’re dreaming of more space, less maintenance, or a whole new view, I’ll help you explore your options.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Sources: Cotality (formerly CoreLogic)

Spotlight Listing: Shakespeare Ranch Properties in Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Life at Shakespeare Ranch: A Rare Tahoe Experience

9 Beds | 9 full 5 partial Baths | 45,000 sqft | 130.00 Acreage | $188,000,000
Listed by: Chase International

Chase International presents the sale of Shakespeare Ranch Properties, an enclave of rare lakefront and meadow properties nestled within the gates of the iconic Shakespeare Ranch in historic Glenbrook, NV-Lake Tahoe’s only gated lakeside golf course community. This world-class offering spans 130 acres with over 425 ft of lake frontage, a 465-ft private pier, two boat lifts, 14 buoys, boat house, 17 residences and cabins, four lakefront properties, 1873 historic entertainment barn, pool house, spa, gym, art loft, barn, stables and rodeo grounds.

Imagine waking to the soft hush of waves against your private pier, the scent of pine in the morning air, and panoramic lake views stretching beyond your window. At Shakespeare Ranch, this isn’t just a daydream — it’s daily life. From summer mornings spent paddleboarding from your private 465-foot pier to evenings entertaining guests in the historic entertainment barn, every moment here feels elevated, intentional, and distinctly Tahoe.

Step outside your lakefront home and onto a breezy cabana deck with a coffee in hand. Watch the light change across the water as the Sierra Nevada peaks wake up with you. Thanks to two boat lifts and access to 12 private buoys, spontaneity on the lake is effortless.

For those who love to entertain, the ranch delivers unforgettable experiences. When the sun sets, gather around a fire pit under a blanket of stars — no city lights, no distractions. Just pure Tahoe magic.

Read More About this Iconic Property

For a private tour of this iconic Lake Tahoe estate, contact me directly to schedule a confidential showing.  Let’s explore what life could look like at Shakespeare Ranch.

📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

 

 

Market Insights Around Lake Tahoe: Q1 2025

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Lake Tahoe Real Estate: A Steady Favorite in an Unsteady World

Navigating through tariffs, stock market fluctuations, and our ever-changing world, one thing remains constant: people love Lake Tahoe.  It is as beautiful as it is simple — and that’s why we continue to believe in the lasting strength of our local real estate market.

The Chase International 2025 Q1 Market Reports are in, and they offer a revealing snapshot of buyer behavior and property performance across the Lake Tahoe basin. Here’s a look at what’s happening in Incline Village, the West Shore, and the North Shore.

Incline Village: Luxury Still Leads

In Q1 2025, Incline Village saw 19 units sold — a significant drop from 30 in Q1 2024, yet the market’s luxury strength remains notable.

  • Median Price: $1,850,000

  • Average Price: $1,959,842

  • Homes Over $1M: 15

  • Homes Under $1M: 4

Despite a -37% decline in units sold, the market held strong with luxury demand. Median prices were down slightly from last year, but with 100% more homes sold under $1M (4 this year vs. 2 in 2024), there’s a signal that opportunity exists at every level of the market.

West Shore: A Rise in Value

The West Shore had 16 units sold in Q1 2025. While this reflects a small decline from last year (19 units in Q1 2024), property values are rising fast.

  • Median Price: $1,362,827 (+19%)

  • Average Price: $3,127,681 (+97%)

Luxury homes dominated the market with 9 of the 16 sales over $1M, indicating a strong preference for waterfront and exclusive West Shore living. This area is clearly gaining traction as a premium destination within Tahoe.

North Shore: Momentum Building

The North Shore showed encouraging signs with 18 units sold, up from 15 in Q1 2024 (+20%).

  • Median Price: $1,397,500 (+27%)

  • Average Price: $2,034,166 (+73%)

  • Homes Over $1M: 14

  • Homes Under $1M: 4

The North Shore’s appeal continues to grow, especially among luxury buyers. With a jump in both median and average price, this area reflects a market that’s not just holding steady — it’s accelerating.

Why It Matters

Across all three areas, one theme is clear: buyers continue to choose Lake Tahoe for its beauty, lifestyle, and investment potential. While unit volume may fluctuate with broader economic forces, home values and high-end interest remain strong.

Q1 2025 Sales Snapshot (All Areas):

✅ Incline Village: 19 units sold
✅ North Shore: 18 units sold
✅ West Shore: 16 units sold
✅ Truckee: 93 units sold
✅ Tahoe Donner: 33 units sold

Whether you’re a potential buyer, seller, or investor, the Chase International market reports offer the insights you need to stay ahead. Read the full Q1 2025 Market Stats here.

📬 Want a personalized market breakdown or a valuation of your home?
🔗 Click here or DM me anytime.

Stay informed. Stay confident.
— Amie with The Q Group

It’s All in the Draw and Pull: The Story of 113 Mammoth Drive

Posted on by Liza Muhl
coffee with amie talking about the draw and pull of a success story

In Escrow with an Over-Asking Offer

The story of 113 Mammoth Drive is a master class in utilizing the draw and pull method. We’re excited to share one of our most recent listing success stories in Dollar Point with you, which is now in escrow with an over-asking offer before it ever hit the market.

The first buyers who toured the home made a move. Why? Because we leveraged our agent relationships and buyer connections, along with our market insights, listing preparation, timing, and strategy to deliver powerful results. 

The Strategy Behind the Sale

The Draw
From the moment we prepped and positioned the home, we knew it had features that would speak directly to motivated buyers. The setting, layout, and design created that instant emotional connection — the kind that makes buyers say, “This is the one.”

The Pull
We tapped into our private network of buyers and agents, generating early buzz and urgency. The pull of the neighborhood, combined with our strategic outreach, brought serious buyers to the table before a single public listing went live.

The Result
No open houses or bidding chaos. Just one well-matched buyer, a strong offer over-asking, and a very happy seller.

Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk About the Draw & Pull of Your Property.

With the right approach, your home can create instant connection and demand — whether you want to go fully on-market or keep things more discreet.

If you are curious about learning more about your home in Tahoe or have any questions that we can help with, do not hesitate to reach out.

📬 Let’s schedule a confidential strategy session. We’ll identify what gives your home strong draw, create the right pull, and help you sell with confidence and clarity.

Contact Amie Quirarte at The Q Group

Real Estate 101 | Pre-Approved vs. Pre-Qualified

Posted on by Liza Muhl
Real Estate 101. Getting pre-approved versus pre-qualified.

Pre-Approved vs. Pre-Qualified: What’s the Difference?

When buying a home, a homebuyer may hear the terms pre-qualified and pre-approved, but they are not the same. While both indicate that a lender has reviewed your finances, pre-approval is the stronger, more reliable option—and it can make all the difference in a competitive market.

✔️ Pre-Qualified – A basic review of your financial situation based on self-reported information. It gives you an estimate of how much you might be able to borrow but doesn’t guarantee loan approval.
✔️ Pre-Approved – A detailed financial review where a lender verifies your credit score, income, and assets. You receive a pre-approval letter, showing sellers you’re a serious, financially qualified buyer.

Why Pre-Approval is the Better Choice

✅ Stronger Buying Power – Sellers view pre-approved buyers as more reliable than pre-qualified buyers.
✅ More Accurate Budgeting – Since lenders verify your financial details, you’ll know exactly how much home you can afford.
✅ Faster Closing Process – With pre-approval, much of the loan process is already completed, leading to a quicker close.
✅ Competitive Edge in Multiple Offers – In a bidding war, sellers are more likely to choose a pre-approved buyer over a pre-qualified one.

Get Ahead in Your Home Search!

If you’re serious about buying, pre-approval is the way to go. Let’s connect—I’ll guide you through the process and help you find your dream home!

Contact Amie Quirarte at The Q Group

Scenic Tahoe Hiking Trails: Part 3

Posted on by Liza Muhl
scenic tahoe hiking trails

Scenic Tahoe Hiking Trails

Tahoe offers an incredible variety of scenic hiking adventures, from leisurely strolls through wildflower-filled meadows to challenging alpine summits with breathtaking views. In Tahoe City & North Shore, trails like Paige Meadows and the Tahoe Rim Trail provide diverse terrain and stunning lake vistas. The West Shore & Emerald Bay region features scenic routes such as the Cascade Falls Trail and the iconic Rubicon Trail, offering lakeside beauty and historic landmarks like Vikingsholm. Truckee & Surrounding Areas boast peaceful forested trails, including the Five Lakes Trail and Shirley Canyon Trail, with rewarding alpine scenery. For those seeking solitude and dramatic landscapes, Incline Village, Marlette Lake, and Desolation Wilderness offer everything from secluded beach hikes to rugged high-altitude adventures like Pyramid Peak and Lake Aloha.

Tahoe Hiking Adventures

Tahoe City & North Shore

  • Paige Meadows – A network of interconnected trails through scenic meadows, ideal for wildflower viewing in spring and cross-country skiing in winter.
  • Tahoe Rim Trail (Tahoe City Section) – A challenging but rewarding segment of the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail, with views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
  • Tahoe XC Trails – A variety of trails catering to different skill levels, great for year-round hiking and cross-country skiing in winter.

West Shore & Emerald Bay

  • Cascade Falls Trail – A moderate 1.4-mile round trip hike leading to Cascade Falls, offering breathtaking waterfall views and stunning vistas of Cascade Lake and Lake Tahoe.  This trail is a great option if you’re looking for a scenic hike without committing to a full day on the trail.
  • Eagle Lake Trail – A moderate 2-mile round trip hike with stunning views of Emerald Bay and a picturesque alpine lake. Great for families and beginner hikers.
  • Eagle Rock Trail – A short, 0.7-mile round trip hike near Homewood, leading to a dramatic volcanic rock formation with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe.
  • Rubicon Trail – A scenic lakeside trail stretching 16.4 miles round trip from D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay. Offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe’s shoreline.
  • Sugar Pine Point State Park Trails – A variety of trails through lush forests and along the shoreline, providing historical insights and serene lake views.
  • Vikingsholm Trail – A short but steep 1.7-mile round trip hike leading to the historic Vikingsholm mansion and Emerald Bay’s shoreline.

Truckee & Surrounding Areas

  • Five Lakes Trail – A 5-mile round trip hike starting at Alpine Meadows leading to five beautiful alpine lakes, offering great views and a peaceful setting.
  • Martis Valley Loop – A 5-mile loop trail near Truckee considered an easy route. Popular area for birding and hiking with lovely trails along the creek.
  • Shirley Canyon Trail – A 4-mile round trip trail in Palisades Tahoe featuring waterfalls, granite boulders, and a rewarding scenic view at High Camp.

Incline Village

  • Chimney Beach Trail – A 3.5-mile out-and-back trail on the east shore of Lake Tahoe, leading to a secluded beach with stunning turquoise waters.
  • Flume Trail – A popular 14-mile trail with breathtaking lake views, known for its gradual climb and rewarding descent. Often used for mountain biking but great for hiking too.
  • Monkey Rock Trail – A 2.6-mile round trip hike leading to a unique rock formation that resembles a monkey with panoramic views of the lake.

Marlette Lake & Spooner Lake

  • Marlette Lake Trail – A challenging 10-mile round trip hike offering stunning views and leading to the pristine Marlette Lake, a favorite for fall foliage.
  • Spooner Lake Trail – A gentle 2.5-mile loop around Spooner Lake, perfect for families and bird watchers.

Desolation Wilderness

  • Lake Aloha Trail – A 12-mile round trip and challenging hike in South Lake Tahoe, offering breathtaking alpine scenery, shimmering lakes, and stunning mountain views. 
  • Lake Genevieve and Crag Lake via Meeks Bay Trail – A 9.5-mile round trip hike near Tahoma, this moderately challenging route is especially rewarding in springtime when wildflowers are in bloom.
  • Pyramid Peak Trail – A strenuous 6.5-mile hike (one way) to the highest peak in Desolation Wilderness, offering panoramic views of the entire Lake Tahoe Basin. 
  • Tahoe Rim Trail (Tahoe City Section) – A challenging but rewarding segment of the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail, with views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Note: Check current trail conditions and permit requirements before hiking in the Desolation Wilderness. 

Access Full Guide Here

Feel free to reach out anytime to explore opportunities or to discuss your real estate goals. Wishing you happy trails!

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Luxury Schaffer’s Mill Lodge with 4th Fairway Views

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Just Listed in Truckee

9234 Heartwood Drive | Truckee, California

4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 3,142 SF

Listed Price $2,639,000

The largest townhome design in the prestigious gated community of Schaffer’s Mill, offering a maintenance-free lifestyle with year-round amenities right out your door. This townhome features 4 private en-suites and a spacious open-concept living area, perfect for entertaining friends and family. Enjoy the covered, elevated deck with a fireplace, offering views of the 4th fairway and snow-capped mountain range. This stunning end-unit townhouse offers unparalleled privacy. Nestled at the back of the neighborhood with no immediate neighbors on the west side, it is ideally situated as the last townhouse before transitioning to single-family homes.

The property is further enhanced by a golf course access road that separates it from the neighboring lot, ensuring permanent, unobstructed privacy. It is a truly unique and serene setting. Embrace the lifestyle with the winter amenities, including a private shuttle to Northstar ski resort and access to the members-only ski lounge, or lean into the golfing lifestyle on your new home course. The par 71 course plays to over 7,000 yards and is considered by many as the finest golf course in the Tahoe and Truckee area.

Don’t miss the rare chance to own a slice of paradise in one of Truckee’s most desirable communities. Book your private showing today and begin living the mountain resort lifestyle you’ve always envisioned!

Property Highlights:

  • Spacious & Luxurious – Largest townhome in Schaffer’s Mill with a maintenance-free lifestyle.
  • Ultimate Privacy – End-unit with no west-side neighbors, backing to single-family homes.
  • Stunning Views – Covered deck with fireplace overlooking the 4th fairway and mountains.
  • Year-Round Perks – Private Northstar shuttle, ski lounge, and championship golf course.
  • Rare Opportunity – Own in one of Truckee’s most desirable communities—book a showing today!

Ready to make Lake Tahoe your go-to escape? Contact me for a private tour.

📞 Let’s Chat! Call me at 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

 

 

Move-In Ready Dollar Hill Tahoe Retreat

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Just Listed in Tahoe City

3200 North Lake Boulevard #10 | Tahoe City, California

3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 1,320 SF

Listed Price $680,000

Located just 3 miles from downtown Tahoe City, and directly on the paved bike path, this move-in Dollar Hill 1 condo retreat has everything you need to make it your perfect Lake Tahoe retreat! This unit is just a short walk or car ride away from to the public beaches in Lake Forest and Skylandia Park, one of the north shore’s best hidden gems. With only 21 units, enjoy the benefits of owning a condo with stress free living while still feeling like you can enjoy your surroundings. It boasts soaring wood ceilings, a stunning kitchen, updated bathrooms, a bonus area, and backs onto a private wooded space. The living area is bright with natural light from the south-facing windows and features a real wood fireplace. Enjoy the sunny decks in this move-in ready home retreat, located in a unique complex with rare turnover opportunities.
Dollar Hill condo listed in Tahoe City
Private patio setting at Dollar Hill retreat in Tahoe City

 Property Highlights:

  • Prime Location – Just 3 miles from downtown Tahoe City and right on the paved bike path.
  • Close to Beaches – Easy access to Lake Forest and Skylandia Park, a North Shore hidden gem.
  • Spacious & Bright – Soaring wood ceilings, south-facing windows, and a real wood fireplace.
  • Private & Peaceful – Backs onto a serene wooded space for added tranquility.
  • Rare Opportunity – Exclusive 21-unit complex with limited turnover—move-in ready!

Ready to make Lake Tahoe your go-to escape? Contact me for a private showing.

📞 Let’s Chat! Call me at 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

 

 

Explore Tahoe’s Biking Trails: Part 2

Posted on by Liza Muhl
Explore Tahoe trails on bike

Explore Outdoor Fun in Tahoe

Our Tahoe Guide to Boating, Biking, and Hiking Adventures explores the trails on the lake in the second of our three-part series. With over 100 biking trails to explore in Tahoe, we’ve focused on a select few that are memorable..  Whether you’re looking for a leisurely lakeside ride, a family-friendly path, or a technical singletrack challenge, Tahoe offers diverse biking options. Here are some of our favorites from escaping into the wilderness or meandering through beautiful bike paths along the shoreline.

Tahoe Biking Adventures

  • General Creek Trail Loop
    A beautiful forested 6-mile round trip ride through Sugar Pine Point State Park with easy terrain and stunning lake views. The route passes through the historic Ehrman Mansion, offering a glimpse into Tahoe’s past.
    Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for mild temperatures and scenic beauty.
    Insider Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the lakeside rest areas and take some time to explore the Ehrman Mansion grounds.
  • Stanford Rock Trail
    A well-designed single-track trail in Tahoe City off Ward Canyon, featuring a 12-mile loop. Areas of smooth, winding ascents with berms and a thrilling descent. Near the exposed peak, the rocky terrain gives way to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and Palisades Tahoe, with benches at the summit for a well-earned rest.
    Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall.
    Insider Tip: Check trail conditions before heading out, as some areas can remain snowy into early summer.
  • Tahoe East Shore Trail
    Known as “America’s Most Beautiful Bikeway,” this 6-mile round trip paved trail runs along the scenic east shore, stretching from Sand Harbor to Incline Village with breathtaking views of the lake.
    Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for pleasant weather.
    Insider Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful ride.
  • Tahoe XC
    A network of scenic trails in Tahoe City, offering both beginner and advanced options for mountain bikers. Also, a perfect location for cross-country skiing in the winter.
    Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall.
    Insider Tip: Check trail conditions before heading out, as some areas can remain snowy into early summer.
  • Truckee River Legacy Trail
    A relaxing 9-mile round trip paved riverside path that’s great for families and casual riders.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall for the best conditions.
    Insider Tip: Stop in Truckee for a coffee break before riding back.
  • West Shore’s Bike Path
    A relaxing 12-mile round trip, paved path that runs along the shoreline, connecting Tahoe City to Meeks Bay with plenty of scenic stops.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for ideal riding conditions.
    Insider Tip: Stop at the West Shore Café for a mid-ride refreshment.

Note: Always check local trail websites or park authorities for updated trail conditions and closures before heading out.

Access Full Guide Here

Feel free to reach out anytime to explore opportunities or to discuss your real estate goals. Wishing you happy trails!

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Explore Beautiful Lake Tahoe: Part 1

Posted on by Liza Muhl
Explore Lake Tahoe at Sunset

Unleash Your Inner Explorer in Tahoe

As we step into spring, it’s the perfect time in Tahoe to explore our surroundings and embrace new adventures on the lake! Our newly curated Tahoe Guide to Boating, Biking, and Hiking Adventures highlights the top outdoor destinations across the region.  Tahoe’s stunning landscapes provide incredible outdoor experiences, from scenic lakeside bike rides to breathtaking hiking trails and unforgettable boating excursions. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride, a challenging summit, or a relaxing day on the water, there’s an adventure for everyone. Explore the best outdoor activities spanning Truckee to Palisades Tahoe and from Emerald Bay to Incline Village, each offering a unique way to experience Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty.

The first of a three part series is escaping to the beautiful waters of Lake Tahoe with exhilarating boat excursions or kayak on glass-like conditions that will take your breath away.

Tahoe Boating Adventures

Commercial Boats and Charters

  • Grand Tahoe Charters – North Lake Tahoe
    A beautifully restored wooden boat offering luxury private charters with a classic Tahoe feel.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer for the warmest weather and best conditions.
    Insider Tip: Book a sunset charter for an unforgettable golden-hour cruise on the lake. Perfect for intimate events.
  • MS Dixie II – South Lake Tahoe
    One of Tahoe’s most iconic and largest paddlewheelers, offering scenic and sunset cruises across the lake, departing from Zephyr Cove Resort.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for the best experience.
    Insider Tip: Opt for the dinner cruise to enjoy live music and panoramic lake views.
  • Sierra Cloud – North Lake Tahoe
    A spacious and comfortable catamaran offering scenic daily cruises on North Lake Tahoe.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for the best experience.
    Insider Tip: Opt for the morning cruise for calm waters and a serene atmosphere.
  • Tahoe Gal  – North Lake Tahoe
    A classic paddlewheeler offering sightseeing cruises around the lake, including lunch and dinner cruises.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for the best experience.
    Insider Tip: Book in advance, as dinner cruises often sell out.
  • Tahoe Sailing Charters – North Lake Tahoe
    Experience Lake Tahoe from a stunning sailboat with breathtaking views, smooth sailing, and friendly crew.
    Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for the best weather conditions.
    Insider Tip: Sunset cruises offer spectacular lake views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals

  • Tahoe City Kayak
    Conveniently located in Tahoe City with options for guided tours and rentals.
    Best Time to Visit: Summer for the warmest water temperatures.
    Insider Tip: Try the full-moon paddle tour for a unique experience.
  • West Shore Sports
    Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals with easy access to calm waters along the West Shore.
    Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for the smoothest water conditions.
    Insider Tip: Rent for a half-day and explore Emerald Bay by paddle.

Note: Be sure to check company websites for availability, operating hours, and booking requirements.

Access Full Guide Here

Feel free to reach out anytime to explore opportunities or to discuss your real estate goals. Wishing you a fresh and vibrant start to spring with endless adventures!

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group