Tag: Lake Life

Pros of Living on the California Side of Lake Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl
Lake Tahoe at sunrise on the West Shore.

Why Some Buyers Choose Charm, Convenience, and Community Over Tax Perks

As a real estate professional licensed in both California and Nevada, I’m often asked, “Which side of Lake Tahoe is better?” While Incline Village, NV, offers unbeatable financial advantages, the California side of Tahoe still holds powerful appeal for many buyers—especially those who value community, accessibility, and a classic mountain-town vibe.

Here are some of the top reasons the California side might be the right fit for you:

1. Vibrant Towns with Local Charm

California-side communities like Truckee, Tahoe City, and South Lake Tahoe offer a rich blend of history, walkability, and character. Think: local coffee shops, artisan markets, bookstores, and year-round events like farmers’ markets, concerts, and holiday parades.

2. Dining, Shopping & Entertainment Options

Craving variety? You’ll find more restaurants, breweries, wine bars, live music venues, and boutiques on the California side—especially in Truckee and South Lake. For buyers who love a lively scene or want to be part of an active social community, California delivers.

3. Proximity to World-Class Ski Resorts

Some of the biggest and most iconic ski resorts are based in California:

  • Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley)

  • Northstar California

  • Homewood

  • Heavenly (shared with NV but mainly CA access)

Whether you ski, snowboard, or just love après-ski views, being close to these resorts is a major plus.

4. Easier Access for Bay Area Buyers

If you’re traveling from San Francisco, Oakland, or Sacramento, towns like Truckee, Donner Lake, and Tahoe City are generally more direct to reach via I-80 or Highway 50, depending on your destination.

5. More Neighborhood Variety

From historic cabins to modern mountain homes, California offers greater diversity in real estate styles and price points. Developments like Tahoe Donner provide full-service amenities (golf, tennis, pool, ski hill) and community events that appeal to families and full-time residents.

6. Family & Kid-Friendly Living

HOA communities like Tahoe Donner in Truckee or Tahoe Park in Tahoe City, offer easy access to parks, trail systems, and youth programs. Many buyers find this side of the lake a great match for year-round living or family-focused getaways.

7. That Classic Tahoe Feel

For some, the California side simply feels more like Tahoe: Tall pines. Quirky towns. Vintage A-frame cabins. That blend of recreation and nostalgia is something money—or tax breaks—can’t always buy.

Bottom Line:

Choosing the California side of Lake Tahoe is about lifestyle alignment. If you value access to amenities, a lively community, rich local culture, and diverse neighborhoods, the California side might just be your perfect mountain home base.

Curious about Tahoe real estate—on either side of the lake?

Let’s connect. I can help you compare options and find a home that aligns with both your lifestyle and long-term goals.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Pros of Living on the Nevada Side of Lake Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Why Incline Village Is a Smart Real Estate Move

As a real estate professional licensed in both California and Nevada, I often help clients compare both sides of Lake Tahoe before deciding where to buy. While California offers classic charm and a vibrant mountain town vibe, the Nevada side—especially Incline Village—offers significant financial and lifestyle advantages that make it an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers, investors, and full-time residents.

Here are the top reasons why living on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe makes dollars and sense:

1. No State Income Tax

This is one of the biggest draws for moving to Nevada. Unlike California, where income tax rates can reach up to 13.3%, Nevada doesn’t tax personal income at all. Whether you’re still earning a high salary, drawing retirement income, or building investment portfolios, this can save you thousands of dollars each year.

2. No Estate or Inheritance Tax

Nevada offers peace of mind when it comes to wealth transfer and estate planning. There is no state inheritance or estate tax, making Incline Village an appealing option for families focused on generational wealth and long-term planning.

3. Lower Property Taxes and Fewer Fees

Nevada property taxes are generally lower than California’s, and residents in Incline Village don’t pay Mello-Roos or similar special assessments that can add thousands annually in other states. For many buyers, this translates into a lower total cost of ownership, even on luxury properties.

4. Exclusive Access to IVGID Amenities

Incline Village residents benefit from the Incline Village General Improvement District (IVGID), which provides access to:

  • Two private beaches (Incline Beach + Burnt Cedar Beach)

  • Diamond Peak Ski Resort (ideal for families and beginners)

  • Championship and mountain golf courses

  • Tennis, pickleball, fitness center, rec programs, and parks

This kind of resident-only access is a huge value-add and sets Incline Village apart from most California-side communities, where amenities are often public and more crowded.

5. Peaceful, Upscale Mountain Living

Incline Village is known for being quieter and more private than other areas around the lake. With a higher concentration of full-time residents and second-home owners (as opposed to short-term tourists), Incline offers a more relaxed, residential feel without sacrificing access to nature, trails, or lakefront fun.

6. Proximity to Key Amenities

While it feels tucked away, Incline Village is less than an hour to Reno-Tahoe International Airport, and close to world-class skiing at Mt. Rose. It’s a great option for remote workers, Bay Area transplants, and anyone seeking an alpine escape with everyday conveniences.

The Bottom Line: Nevada = Smart, Strategic Living

If you’re looking for a financially smart, lifestyle-rich location in Lake Tahoe, the Nevada side—especially Incline Village—should be at the top of your list.

Whether you’re relocating, buying a second home, or building long-term wealth through real estate, Nevada offers both immediate tax benefits and long-term ownership value.

Want to explore what living in Incline Village could look like for you?

As a California and Nevada licensed real estate advisor, I can help you compare properties and weigh both lifestyle and financial advantages—on both sides of the lake. Let’s talk!

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

A Full-Circle Moment: Speaking at WomanUP!®

Posted on by Liza Muhl
Keynote speaker, Amie Quirarte, at the WomanUp Conference in Pasadena, California

WomanUP!®: Empowering Women in Real Estate

I had the honor of serving as the keynote speaker at the WomanUP!® conference hosted by the California Association of Realtors in Pasadena this month. I chose to focus my presentation on the Psychology of Fear—how it shows up in our work as real estate professionals and in our everyday lives.

A bit of history: WomanUP!® began in 2017 to address a powerful gap: women make up the majority of REALTORS®, but a much smaller percentage hold brokerage leadership positions. What started as a one-day gathering has evolved into a national movement championing mentorship, leadership, and equity in real estate.

Public speaking doesn’t come naturally to me, but having my three-year-old daughter, Alaska, in the audience made all the difference. She sat quietly in the back of the room, watching as I spoke about overcoming fear, embracing challenges, and stepping into our full potential.

Grateful for the opportunity, the platform, and the mission of WomanUP!® to elevate and empower women in our industry. It was such a proud and meaningful moment—for me as a mother, a woman, and a Realtor.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

The Tale of Three Markets in Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Positioning in Today’s Tahoe Markets

Where you stand depends on where you sit—and in Tahoe real estate, that’s never been more true. From charming cabins to mountain top estates, Tahoe’s real estate market is telling three very different stories right now. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply keeping a pulse on the market, here’s a look at what’s happening across the spectrum:

Entry-Level & Mid-Market

In areas like Truckee, Tahoe Donner, and Kings Beach, homes in the more accessible price range are moving quickly. Buyers are active, inventory is tight, and well-priced homes in great condition are attracting strong interest. If you’re a seller in this tier, this is your moment. But pricing and presentation still matter—today’s buyers are informed and expect value.

Luxury Market

The $2 million to $5 million price bracket—often considered “luxury” in Tahoe—tells a more cautious story. We’re seeing longer days on market, more negotiations, and a noticeable shift toward buyer selectivity. High-end properties in Incline Village, Martis Camp, Lahontan, and the West Shore remain desirable, but the bar is higher. Quality, location, and pricing must align to stand out in this space.

Estate Level Market

Properties priced at $5 million and above, especially those on the lake are experiencing a more balanced market. Many of these buyers are paying cash, driven less by interest rates and more by lifestyle, privacy, and long-term generational value. These homes aren’t just transactions—they’re legacy purchases.

Navigating Your Next Move

While market stats provide valuable insight, they shouldn’t drive your decision. Your unique lifestyle, evolving needs, and family goals deserve to be front and center. Let those priorities lead the way—supported by trusted, hyperlocal real estate expertise.

Thinking about making a move in Tahoe’s summer market? Let’s talk—I’m here to help.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

TRPA Pier Lottery is Officially Open!

Posted on by Liza Muhl

TRPA Accepting Pier Lottery Submissions June 1 – 30

As someone deeply committed to protecting property rights in the basin, I make it a priority to be involved in key meetings around the lake and throughout the state that may affect not only me as a homeowner, but also my clients– past, present, and future.

Recently, I attended two important local gatherings: one with the Tahoe Lakefront Owners Association and another hosted by our local board of realtors, featuring guest speaker Jeff Cowen from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA). Both meetings focused heavily on preserving property rights and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape in Lake Tahoe.

In this blog, we are pleased to share that the TRPA Pier Lottery is officially open! Read more below from the TRPA.

A Message from the TRPA

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency will be accepting submissions for the pier lottery and allocation selection process from June 1 through 5 p.m. PDT on June 30, 2025, for the limited number of pier allocations allowed every two years under the Shoreline Plan.

Adopted by the TRPA Governing Board in 2018, the Shoreline Plan lifted a longstanding moratorium on new shore zone structures and placed a cap on the number of private piers and buoys allowed at Lake Tahoe. The plan allows additional piers and moorings to be permitted at a measured rate until the cap is met.

Every two years, TRPA can permit up to 12 new piers on Lake Tahoe, with priority given to multiple-parcel piers. On July 18, TRPA will select submissions to receive an allocation through the lottery and prioritization processes. No additional pier allocations will be available until 2027. If selected, applicants will be eligible to submit a new pier application, which will undergo a comprehensive review.

Information and instructions on the submission process, including eligibility criteria, are available at the link below.

TRPA NEW PIER PROCESS

Highlights:

🔹 Only 12 new piers will be permitted this cycle
🔹 Priority goes to multiple-parcel piers
🔹 Lottery selections happen on July 18
🔹 No new opportunities again until 2027

This is a rare opportunity to enhance your lakefront property—don’t miss it!

📲 Wondering what this means for your lakefront property? Contact Amie Quirarte—your local expert in Tahoe real estate and lakefront opportunities.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

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)

Coffee Talk | Real Estate Contingencies

Posted on by Liza Muhl
buyer home protection

Real Estate Contingencies: Your Winter Survival Plan

Real estate contingencies and winter conditions both serve as protective measures—whether in a home purchase or an outdoor adventure.

Investigation Contingency = Checking the Weather Forecast

Just like you wouldn’t head into a snowstorm without knowing what’s coming, an inspection contingency lets buyers assess a home’s condition before fully committing.

Appraisal Contingency = Ensuring Safe Road Conditions

If the roads are too icy, you might rethink your travel plans. Similarly, if a home appraises for less than the purchase price, this contingency lets the buyer reassess financing or renegotiate to avoid overpaying.

Financing Contingency = Packing the Right Gear

Just like you need the right winter gear to handle freezing temps, securing financing is essential to ensure the contract goes through. If a buyer’s loan falls through, this contingency acts as a safeguard.

Final Thoughts

Each contingency, like winter preparedness, helps prevent being caught in a tough spot. If removed too soon—just like venturing into the backcountry without the right equipment—you might face challenges that could have been avoided.

📩 Buying a home? We’re here to guide you with expert knowledge, ensuring your contract has the right protection for a smooth transaction.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Coffee Talk | Maximize Your Home’s Value with Backyard Curb Appeal

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Make Your Tahoe Home Stand Out

If you’re selling your home in Lake Tahoe, you already have one major advantage—breathtaking natural surroundings! But even in a scenic destination, backyard curb appeal plays a huge role in attracting buyers and increasing your home’s value.

Buyers in Tahoe are looking for outdoor living spaces that embrace the mountain lifestyle, whether it’s for year-round enjoyment or a dreamy vacation retreat. Here’s how to enhance your Tahoe backyard and make it a major selling point!

Why Backyard Curb Appeal Matters in Tahoe

  1. Outdoor Lifestyle Appeal – Buyers want a space where they can relax, entertain, and take in the views.
  2. Boosts Home Value – A well-designed backyard can increase perceived value and attract higher offers.
  3. Standout Listings – Homes with inviting outdoor spaces photograph better and generate more interest.

Embrace the Natural Beauty

Tahoe buyers love homes that blend seamlessly with nature. Showcase your outdoor space by:

  1. Keeping landscaping natural with native plants like lupine, manzanita, or Jeffrey pines.
  2. Adding rock features, wood accents, or a rustic fire pit to enhance the mountain aesthetic.
  3. Maintaining a clear, unobstructed view of the lake, forest, or mountains if possible.

Create Cozy Gathering Spaces

Buyers in Tahoe love outdoor entertaining areas, especially ones designed for all-season use.

  1. Arrange Adirondack chairs, rustic benches, or outdoor sofas with weather-resistant cushions.
  2. Add a covered patio or pergola to extend usability through different seasons.
  3. Use string lights, lanterns, and cozy blankets for a warm and inviting ambiance.

Maximize Seasonal Appeal

Tahoe is a four-season destination, and buyers want an outdoor space they can use year-round.

In Winter:

  • Keep paths & decks shoveled and safe to show accessibility.
  • Highlight heated patios, hot tubs, or ski storage areas.

In Summer:

  • Stage a BBQ area, hammock, or outdoor dining table for warm-weather fun.
  • Show off nearby hiking or lake access to emphasize outdoor adventure potential.

Final Thoughts

A well-presented Tahoe backyard isn’t just an outdoor space—it’s an extension of the home’s lifestyle appeal. Whether you’re selling a luxury lakefront estate or a cozy mountain cabin, these small but impactful changes can make a big difference in buyer interest and final sale price.

📩 Thinking about selling? Let’s talk! We’ll help you maximize your Tahoe home’s outdoor appeal and get top dollar.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Coffee Talk | Seasonal Home Maintenance Tips

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Winterizing Your Home for Comfort, Safety, and Value

We are well into the winter season here in Lake Tahoe, but it’s not too late to take steps to prepare your home for the colder months. Winterizing isn’t just about staying cozy—it’s also about protecting your property and adding value. Whether you’re planning to sell your home or have just purchased one, winterizing is a smart move that benefits both buyers and sellers.

What Does Winterizing Mean?

Winterizing involves preparing your home to handle the challenges of cold weather, such as freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. It includes tasks like sealing drafts, protecting pipes, and ensuring your heating system is in top shape.

Top Winterizing Tips for Every Homeowner

Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or homeowner preparing for the season, here are essential tips to winterize your property:

  1. Protect Pipes from Freezing: Insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor hoses.
  2. Inspect Heating Systems: Clean or replace furnace filters and schedule a professional inspection.
  3. Seal Gaps and Drafts: Use weatherstripping or caulking around windows and doors.
  4. Clean Gutters and Check Your Roof: Clear debris to prevent ice dams and repair damaged shingles.
  5. Prepare Outdoor Spaces: Cover patio furniture, drain irrigation systems, and stock up on de-icers.

Final Thoughts

For sellers, it’s a chance to showcase a well-maintained property that’s ready for its next owner. For buyers, it provides peace of mind and a head start on maintaining your new home.

If you’d like more tips or guidance on preparing your home for the winter market, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you make the most of your property this season!

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group