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Corcoran Icon Properties Names Christine Lopatowski As Manager of Noe Valley Office
Corcoran Icon Properties announced that Christine Lopatowski has been appointed the Sales Manager at the firm’s Noe Valley office in San Francisco, succeeding Samantha Huang as she transitions to a key role as a mentor in the company’s new mentorship program. These two dynamic, experienced leaders will bring their knowledge, leadership, and expertise to the benefit of agents and clients alike.
With 18 years of experience in real estate, Christine Lopatowski has built a solid reputation as a leader and mentor, in addition to her success as a top producer. Her strong background in executive sales management includes successful stints as the manager of the Upper Market office in San Francisco and as assistant manager at Zephyr Real Estate’s Potrero Hill location. Her expertise, connections, and mastery of the real estate business, particularly in the Bay Area, make her a natural fit for this new position.
“Christine brings an impressive skill set to any endeavor she encounters. Her focus on client service, problem-solving, and negotiating is outstanding, and she enjoys the respect of her colleagues,” commented Randall Kostick, CEO of Corcoran Icon Properties. He further added, “Samantha’s contributions as the previous manager have been invaluable to our team, and we are thrilled that she will continue to play a significant role as a mentor in our new mentorship program.”
Along with her proven leadership record, Lopatowski is a top producer with keen abilities and a gift for clear and constant communication. She excels in single-family homes, condos, TICs, lofts, and multi-unit buildings throughout San Francisco.
“I am excited to lead the dedicated and professional agents at the Noe Valley office,” Lopatowski remarked. “We share the same passion for the industry, for the Bay Area, and for the culture at Corcoran Icon.”
Christine Lopatowski may be reached at 415.426.3301 or christinel@corcoranicon.com. And Samantha Huang can be reached at 415.640.7602 or samantha.huang@corcoranicon.com.
Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good – Pam Parker Murphy and the Detroit Steps Project
At Corcoran Icon Properties, we believe in celebrating the remarkable efforts of our team members who make a positive impact in their communities. In our new series, “Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good,” we are thrilled to share inspiring stories of philanthropy, office events, and community outreach initiatives. In the second part of our series, we turn the spotlight on Pam Parker Murphy, a dedicated REALTOR®, and her extraordinary work with the Detroit Steps Project.
Pam Parker Murphy and the Detroit Steps Project
Initiated in 2018, Pam Parker Murphy unveiled her visionary plan during a Sunnyside Neighborhood Association meeting. Her goal 
was to collaborate with a community of volunteers to transform a neglected, overgrown public stairway into a scenic destination for the Sunnyside neighborhood. Thus, the Detroit Steps Project was born.
Under Pam’s leadership, the project gained momentum, but she also recognized the value of strong teamwork. She appointed Rosaura Valle, another Sunnyside neighbor, to lead the day-to-day efforts of the Detroit Steps group and the steering committee consisting of 12 dedicated volunteers. Together, they have been instrumental in managing various efforts and collaborations with San Francisco’s City agencies. What was once just one resident’s vision has now become a collective neighborhood effort, involving more than 200+ people, to create an inspirational scenic staircase for all to enjoy.
The Transformation
Thanks to the relentless efforts of the volunteer group, the two-block stairway has been completely cleared out. Collaborating with the Department of Public Works (DPW), they have repaired the infrastructure and installed a new steel decorative fence, decorative
lighting, terracing, landscaping, signage, and water meters. Soon, a steel archway will welcome pedestrians to the steps from Monterey Blvd, creating a grand entrance for all to enjoy.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The Detroit Steps Project is not just focused on the physical transformation of the stairway but also on fostering community engagement. Regular monthly maintenance day events allow volunteers to come together, ensuring the steps remain in pristine condition. In addition, the project has exciting plans in the pipeline. An upcoming community movie night on the steps will bring neighbors together for an enjoyable evening. Furthermore, an archway ribbon-cutting party with a BBQ will celebrate the completion of the iron archway. Fundraising efforts have also begun to create breathtaking mosaic tile steps that will span the entire two-block stairway.
Together, both Pam and Rosaura have shown how collaboration and dedication can transform a community and inspire positive change.
Join Us in Celebrating Change
At Corcoran Icon, we are immensely proud of Pam Parker Murphy’s dedication and the positive impact she has made through the Detroit Steps Project.
To learn more about Pam Parker Murphy and her work, visit her on Instagram @pamparkerproperties
For more information about the Detroit Steps Project, visit their website:
detroitsteps.org
Follow the Detroit Steps Project on social media:
facebook.com/detroitsteps
Let’s be the change makers and create a brighter future, one step at a time.
Corcoran Icon Properties Lists Oakland’s Historic Coit Hotel
Guiseppe Zumbo with Corcoran Icon Properties’ Montclair Office in Oakland has just listed the historic Coit Hotel at 1445 Harrison Street, on the corner of 15th Street. Now called 1445 Harrison Apartments, this 118-unit multi-family residential property was built in 1925 and was home to the Harmony Café, operated by Sarah Jane “Sadie”
Greatherd for many years. Historic documents identify the Coit Hotel as having “sensible rates.”
The nearly-century-old building was designed by noted architect Leonard Ford (1892-1971). A Louisiana native, Ford was the City Architect for the City of Walnut Creek and designed many commercial structures in the East Bay during his career.
Maxwell Hardware Company (“The Always Reliable Store”) provided the fittings and other material for the construction of the hotel. Maxwell Hardware, established in 1886 by Calvin L. Maxwell, was the first store on 12th Street near Broadway. The chain grew to six locations over the years until its closure in the 1960s.
The Coit Hotel building recalls a nostalgic time of beauty and opulence though it is now a multifamily residential property of approximately 55,750 square feet with one retail space and 45 parking spaces on an entitled lot. The lot size is nearly 19,000 square feet located in the heart of Oakland’s central business district near Lake Merritt.
Units include private kitchens and baths, many of which have been renovated with incandescent lighting, energy-efficient showerheads, and water-saver lavatories. Funds have been allocated for a solar heater system and dual-pane windows. With minimal deferred maintenance and convenient management, the cash flow is robust, and includes two laundry rooms with a total of 17 coin-operated/card pay washers and dryers for additional income. The basement has 35 secured storage units with space to add more.
The property is primarily a low-income project with a regulatory agreement through the California Tax Allocation Committee with 25 years remaining. The building qualifies with the state and county and receives a welfare exemption that allows a secure property tax waiver on all ad valorem taxes, only bonds and assessments are paid. This increases the capitalization rate and cash-on-cash return beyond competing buildings for a greater return.
“This is an excellent investment opportunity in an active income-producing property,” commented Zumbo. “The building provides a great hedge against inflation and recession.”
The Davis-Coit Apartments is listed for $29,794,000 (based on a $23,799,000 sale of the apartment building and a $5,995,000 sale of the entitled lot). The entitled lot, located at the rear of the property, could potentially be subdivided with a lot line adjustment and approved for a 127-unit development. For the Offer Memorandum & Disclosures, please see https://app.disclosures.io/link/1445-Harrison-Street-ytfxccb0.
Listing agent Giuseppe Zumbo is native to the Bay Area and worked alongside his grandfather in the family business during his formative years, where he learned the value of hard work, public service, and integrity. He is dedicated in his commitment to give back to his community and is actively involved with the Alameda County Food Pantry and in supplying food and clothing to those in need. He may be reached at (510) 331-5153 or giuseppe.zumbo@corcoranicon.com.
Corcoran Icon Properties Lists Historic Heritage Home in Petaluma
Victorian Specialist Bonnie Spindler has just listed the architecturally-significant residence, designed by Julia Morgan, located at 707 D Street in historic downtown Petaluma. This is one of only four Julia Morgan homes in Petaluma, and it is one of her earlier commissions. Built-in 1911, the home is over 3,000 square feet of gracious living and reflects Morgan’s distinctive architectural flair.
The home last sold in 1973, and the agent has the original architectural plans. The four-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence includes a den, family room, and formal dining room. The kitchen was modernized a few years ago, but many of the home’s original features have been preserved. The low-slung windows present an abundance of natural light as well as street views of the vintage neighborhood.
Julia Morgan, a trailblazer in many aspects, was the first woman to achieve an architectural license/engineering degree. She was the first woman to earn the American Institute of Architects highest award, the AIA Gold Medal (posthumously). She designed over 700 buildings in California during her illustrious career but is best known for her work on Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Noted for her expertise with the turn-of-the-century First Bay Area Tradition, she embraced an aesthetic blend of classical, craftsman, formal, and whimsy in her work.
“This home is a blend of Prairie and Tudor styles, and sits on a sizeable lot of 8,400 square feet,” commented Spindler. “The D Street neighborhood is well recognized for its delightful variety of historic architecture and beautifully preserved homes.”
Bonnie Spindler, listing agent and noted Victorian Specialist, shares her time between Petaluma and San Francisco, and specializes, though is not restricted to pre-1926 architecture. Both her residences embody her love of all things historic. She bought her first home at the age of 23 and has invested in a multitude of homes ever since. With 30 years in the business, she still enjoys the ever-changing facets of real estate, the challenges to overcome, and the clients who become friends as well as life-long clients. She is tenacious in her pursuit of excellence and is committed to giving back to her communities. She has served as a board member position on the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, which presents the Julia Morgan Design Awards for Excellence to architects, designers, artisans, students, builders, and patrons; the Petaluma Woman’s Club where she serves as House and Grounds Chair. The PWC is 150 years old and is housed in a Heritage Club House designed by Brainard Jones (a native son who designed 80 percent of the historic homes in Petaluma). She serves on the San Francisco Zen Center’s development committee and has served on the Alamo Square and Victorian Alliance.
Petaluma is a charming riverfront town on Highway 101 just 40 miles north of San Francisco and a bit south of Santa Rosa. Sunset magazine described Petaluma’s downtown area as a “well-watered, well-fertilized, mature Main Street USA.” With 65 sites on the National Register of Historic Places, Petaluma is also home to the Butter & Egg Festival. The SMART (Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit) train stops in the downtown center.
The D Street home is listed for $1.15 million. Bonnie Spindler may be reached at 415.706.6660 or properties@bonniespindler.com.
Corcoran Icon Properties’ Humboldt Office Lists Historical Southport Landing Mansion
Loleta, CA – April 26, 2023 – Jon Witkop and Michelle Rowland, from Corcoran Icon Properties’ Eureka office have just listed the historically significant Southport Landing mansion at 444 Phelan Road in beautiful Loleta, CA. Just five miles north of Eureka, the property is located near the southern waterway of Humboldt Bay.
Charles Heney was the original owner of the land, and it was part of his agricultural holdings.
Heney had arrived in San Francisco with the 1849 Gold Rush from New Brunswick and subsequently landed in Eureka in 1855. He opened a general store and became postmaster before buying the Southport ranch. His dream included the development of Southport as a town and a shipping point for the agricultural community. He built a railroad in 1885 to facilitate getting goods to market. However, weather and circumstances were against the plan, and he was out of business by 1885. His son, William, owner of the Humboldt Times in Eureka, was drawn to the area and completed the Colonial Revival home at the end of a country lane, moving his large family to Southport in 1901.
The home sits on a 2.84-acre site with majestic views of the Bay, pasturelands, and cypress forests. The three-story home of 5,400 square feet includes eight bedrooms, four baths, den, rec room, dining room, kitchen, laundry room and living room – a total of 20 rooms, all with lovely views of the dramatic surroundings. Like a step back in time, the graceful staircase, the glossy patina of wood floors, light fixtures, detailed period appointments, and the expansive veranda all capture all the building’s luxury and history.
Once the family had grown and moved on, the home fell into decline for a time. Then in 1987, a new owner restored and returned the mansion to its former glory with modern wiring, plumbing, and sheetrock. Subsequent owners redecorated and opened it as a bed and breakfast in 1997.
Southport Landing is a registered historic home located on the shores of Humboldt Bay built at the turn of the century. This early colonial revival residence was once a haven for weary ship captains and the hub of the township of Southport, a rail and shipping port connecting the Eel River basin with San Francisco. Now, hiking, kayaking, bicycling, bird watching, and beach combing are easily accessible.
“Southport Landing is almost magical in its setting as well as its design,” commented Witkop, listing agent. “It’s a timeless classic property that can transport you to another time and a lovely dimension.” The home is listed at $1,275,000. Witkop may be reached at 707.515.6683 or jon.witkop@corcoranicon.com. And Rowland can be reached at 707.599.9446 or michelle.rowland@corcoranicon.com.
Out with the Old, In with the New: Spring Cleaning Tips to Refresh Your Home!
Spring is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to welcome the season than with a thorough spring cleaning? We know the importance of a clean and organized home, and we want to help you achieve just that. Whether you’re a seasoned spring cleaner or new to the game, our comprehensive spring cleaning tips will help you tackle every nook and cranny of your home, making it a welcoming and comfortable space for the season ahead.
Declutter Your Home
Before you start deep cleaning, it’s important to declutter your home. Get rid of any items you no longer need or use, and organize your belongings into designated areas. This will make cleaning much easier and help you feel more organized and refreshed.
Deep Clean All Surfaces
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to deep clean all surfaces in your home. This includes your windows, carpets, bathrooms, and kitchen. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and microfiber cloths to reduce waste and avoid harmful chemicals.
Organize Your Belongings
After cleaning, take some time to organize your belongings. Use storage bins, shelves, and baskets to keep everything in its place. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your home tidy.
Tackle Outdoor Cleaning Tasks
Don’t forget about the outside of your home! Sweep your patio or deck, clean your grill, and wash your windows to let in more natural light. This will make your home feel more inviting and refreshed.
Prepare for Pollen
Springtime in California means blooming flowers and trees, which also means lots of pollen. To combat allergies and keep your home clean, consider using a HEPA filter in your vacuum and air purifier. You may also want to invest in a good quality doormat to keep dirt and pollen from being tracked into your home.
Protect Against Pests
The warm California weather can also attract pests such as ants, termites, and rodents. Take steps to pest-proof your home by sealing up any cracks or openings in your walls, floors, and foundation. Clean up any food spills or crumbs immediately and store food in airtight containers.
Deep Clean Your Air Ducts
With the warm California weather comes the increased use of air conditioning. Make sure your air ducts are clean and free of debris by having them professionally cleaned. This can help improve the air quality in your home and reduce the risk of respiratory issues.
Clean Your Pool
If you have a pool, spring is the perfect time to get it ready for the swimming season. Make sure your pool is properly cleaned and balanced with the right chemicals. Consider hiring a professional pool cleaning service to take care of this for you.
Get Your Garden Ready
California is known for its beautiful gardens and landscaping. Spring is the perfect time to prepare your garden for the growing season. Consider planting drought-resistant plants that can withstand the hot California summers. Use organic fertilizers to avoid harmful chemicals in your garden.
Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary one to ensure your home is a healthy and comfortable environment. By following our comprehensive tips, you can tackle every cleaning task with ease and make your home a clean, organized, and inviting space. So, put on some music, grab your cleaning supplies, and let’s get to work! Your home (and allergies) will thank you.
Diving into Fun for a Cause: Corcoran Icon Properties Takes on The 22nd Annual Perilous Plunge to Support Redwood Discovery Museum
Corcoran Icon Properties Humboldt office recently joined The 22nd Annual Perilous Plunge event, in Humboldt, to support the Redwood Discovery Museum. The team has been participating in this incredible event for over a decade, dating back to their original real estate company, Mikki Moves Real Estate.
“We love our Humboldt community and want to do all we can to bring people together and make Humboldt strong and successful!” said Betsy Serafini, Partner and Regional Vice President of Sales – North Bay & North Coast. “Children especially are so very important to us, and we appreciate this opportunity to serve our community and have a blast doing it!”
The Perilous Plunge event, which took place on April 1st, invited participants to take a plunge into the chilly waters of Humboldt Bay to support the Redwood Discovery Museum, a nonprofit organization that provides hands-on learning opportunities for children and families in the Humboldt County area.
The Corcoran Icon “plungers” gathered donations from their networks of friends, family, and colleagues, eager to make a difference for the Redwood Discovery Museum. The team donned creative costumes and jumped into the chilly bay, joining other teams and participants in support of the museum.
“The Perilous Plunge is a great opportunity to come together as a team and support a cause we care about,” said Serafini.
Along with the plunge itself, the event featured food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities for participants and spectators. By supporting events like the Perilous Plunge, the Redwood Discovery Museum can continue to offer hands-on learning opportunities for children and inspire a love of learning in young minds.
The Humboldt team is already looking forward to next year’s event and continuing their support for the Redwood Discovery Museum.
Northern California Dominates List of Happiest Cities in America for 2023
Recent data from WalletHub suggests that Northern California may be a great place to relocate for a higher quality of life and happiness. According to the study, three cities in the region ranked in the top five happiest cities in the US. Fremont claimed the top spot for the second consecutive year, followed by San Jose and San Francisco. Factors such as emotional and physical well-being, community and environment, and income and employment were evaluated to determine the rankings. The study draws on psychological research, which shows that locations with more resources tend to have happier people. Additionally, a city’s economy, particularly the amount of economic equality among residents, can contribute to their happiness. As Northern California residents, we can attest to the region’s natural beauty, innovative spirit, and diverse communities, making it an ideal place to call home.
So, without further ado, here are the happiest cities in the U.S. for 2023, according to WalletHub:
Fremont, California
For the second year in a row, Fremont takes the top spot as the happiest city in America. Located in Northern California, Fremont boasts the top emotional and physical well-being rank and community and environment rank. While its income and employment rank is not as high as some other cities on the list, Fremont’s overall quality of life and resources make it a top destination for those seeking happiness.
San Jose, California
Also located in Northern California, San Jose comes in at number two on the list. It has the second-highest emotional and physical well-being rank, and a strong income and employment rank, which helps contribute to the city’s overall happiness. While its community and environment rank isn’t as high as Fremont’s, San Jose still has plenty of cultural and natural resources to offer residents.
San Francisco, California
Coming in at number five on the list is San Francisco, a city known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, steep hills, and bustling tech industry. While its income and employment rank is higher than most other cities on the list, its community and environment rank is lower. Despite this, San Francisco still offers residents plenty of resources and opportunities for a happy and fulfilling life.
Rounding out the top 5 are Madison, Wisconsin, and Overland Park, Kansas.
So if you’re looking for a change of scenery and a happier quality of life, consider making a move to one of these Northern California cities. As a real estate company based in this region, Corcoran Icon Properties is proud to serve these communities with a footprint of 25 offices spanning all over Northern California, including San Jose and San Francisco. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced agents can help you find the perfect home to suit your needs in these vibrant and thriving communities. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and let us assist you in adding a little more joy to your life.
Corcoran Icon Properties Makes Impression on North Bay Association of REALTORS®
Corcoran Icon Properties is proud to congratulate Mike Lagoyda and Mikki Cardoza on their appointments as new Directors of the North Bay Association of REALTORS® (NorBAR) for 2023. We are also thrilled to congratulate David Kerr on his appointment as the Chair of the NorBAR charity. Their appointments are a testament to their commitment and dedication to the real estate industry and the communities they serve.
Lagoyda has been an esteemed member of the NorBAR Association for several years. With over a decade of experience in real estate, Mike earned the position of Sonoma County Sales Manager three years ago. He has also been actively involved in NorBAR for several years, serving as a member of the Education Committee and contributing to the organization’s mission to promote the highest standards of professionalism and ethics among its members. Mike is committed to giving back to the community through charitable endeavors and is a true asset to the real estate industry. He is available at 707.888.9921 or mike.lagoyda@corcoranicon.com.
Cardoza has been a leading real estate professional in Humboldt and Sonoma Counties, with a proven track record of success in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Mikki has been recognized for her outstanding leadership skills and has been a valuable asset to the Corcoran Icon Properties team. She has also been actively involved in NorBAR, serving as a board member for several years, in addition to serving on different committees including Education, Grievance, and Chapter Committees, advocating for homeowners and property owners in the North Bay region. Mikki is passionate about supporting local businesses and improving the quality of life for residents in the North Bay and Humboldt regions. She may be reached at 707.407.8925 or mikki.cardoza@corcoranicon.com.
Kerr is a long-standing member of NorBAR and has served on the Charity Board of Directors for several years. He is a dedicated philanthropist and has been actively involved in supporting local charities and non-profit organizations throughout his career. As the 2023 Chair of the NorBAR charity, David will continue to lead the organization’s efforts to make a positive impact on the community. Contact him at 707.933.7020 or david.kerr@corcoranicon.com.
The North Bay Association of REALTORS® provides services to members in Lake, Mendocino, Napa and Sonoma Counties in northern California. Representing nearly 3,600 real estate professionals and affiliates, the Association provides professional development, advocacy, resources and support to help real estate professionals succeed and surpass the expectations of their clients.
“We are thrilled to congratulate Mike Lagoyda and Mikki Cardoza on their appointments as new Directors of the North Bay Association of Realtors and David Kerr on his appointment as the Chair of the NorBAR charity,” remarked Betsy Serafini, Vice President of Sales for North Bay and North Coast. “Their appointments are a testament to their outstanding leadership skills and dedication to the industry and the community. We are proud to have them as part of our team at Corcoran Icon Properties.”
Corcoran Icon Properties congratulates Mike, Mikki, and David on their appointments and wishes them all the best in their new roles.
Belluomini | Westhoff Group Lists Iconic Bridge House in San Rafael
The Belluomini | Westhoff Group from Corcoran Icon Properties’ Greenbrae office has just listed the stunning Bridge House in Los Ranchitos, designed by noted architect, the late Brent Dickens. The property, located at 160 Oak View Drive, is a masterpiece inspired by the aesthetics of Frank Lloyd Wright. Highlighted by many unique features that blend the beautiful natural surroundings with the great indoors, the show-stopping glass floor in the living room grants a view of the pond and seasonal stream approximately 40+/- feet below.
The open concept of the main level includes multiple skylights to enhance the design with abundant natural light, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer bucolic views from every room. Expansive balconies and lush landscaping dramatically increase the living space for both entertaining and simple quiet at-home reveries.
The spacious lower-level family room with a wet bar augments the ambiance, and a bonus office space with a built-in desk is located off the family room. The main level primary suite features a fireplace, sitting area, large bathroom, walk-in closet, and walk-out shower. The double-sided fireplace in the living room and primary suite, along with the custom mantel in the living room, provides warmth and coziness. The home boasts owned solar, a three-car garage, a large workshop or wine cellar, plentiful storage space, and a second en suite bedroom on the lower level.\
“This stunning home feels very secluded, set in the middle of an almost enchanted forest,” remarked Michael Belluomini. “Yet it’s only 30 minutes from San Francisco, depending on traffic, of course, and near the ferry terminal. The best of all worlds.”
This architectural marvel offers functionality, luxury, and the quintessential Marin lifestyle. A part of the elegant and private Los Ranchitos gated enclave, the Bridge House sits elegantly on a ½-acre lot, includes three bedrooms and 3.5 baths, and just over 3500 square feet. Listed by Michael Belluomini and Michele Westhoff, the property is offered at $2,899,000. Belluomini may be reached at 415.589.0175 or Michael@livesonomamarin.com; Westhoff at 310.927.8652 or Michele@livesonomamarin.com.
