March - 2015

Does Staging Your Home Really Get You More Money?

Yes. There is no official scientific research that backs this theory, but you can ask any Realtor, they will all tell you that staging can make the difference between getting your home sold fast as opposed to having it sit on the market for weeks. Not that homes tend to sit here in the Bay Area - are you kidding me? - but what I am obseving is that all the homes which present themselves with a fresh coat of neutral paint and a sophisticated staging job, get a huge amount of o

Almonds, Chocolate, Eggs and a hint of butter...

Have you ever been to the Island of Capri? It's world famous for its lemons and, uh, limoncello. But there is another thing you can get addicted to: Torta Caprese! As always in Italian cuisine, high quality ingredients are the key, and then you just try to not ruin them ;-). Yesterday, I baked this cake at my friend Nicola Rivieccio's Neapolitan bakery "Pane Italiano Qualita' " in Berkeley (http://www.piqbakery.com/#! ). He treated me for lunch in exchange for my secret recip

Your March To-Do List

With the first day of spring coming up on March 20, the time has come in many areas to start shedding winter layers and encourage new growth. Whether the view out your window this month is of a snowy wonderland or something springy and green, these 10 to-dos should help you get in the spring spirit. 1. Get lawn and garden tools tuned up. Sharp blades make for easier trimming, so bring in your gear now so you’re ready to go when the lawn needs its first haircut. 2. Check the