A major reason people move to and live in Brentwood is its quality primary, secondary and high schools. To get information about primary and secondary schools in Brentwood you can go to Brentwood Union School District or Liberty Union High School District. To review scores for all Brentwood and Contra Costa County schools at Brentwood School Scores.

Brentwood and Eastern Contra Costa County housing prices are down 60% and greater from peak prices of 2006-2006. Prices of many Brentwood area homes are nearing $100 per square foot, lower than the cost to build. In addition, the monthly payment for the purchase of many Brentwood properties is less than rent, a great opportunity for first time buyers. The bottom is hard to predict, but it is a great time to buy and own a home in Brentwood.

All properties in California have a base tax rate of 1% of the purchase price. In addition, taxpayers in individual cities and counties such as Brentwood and Contra County approve bonds to pay for community facilities, services and schools. Brentwood has no Mello Roos, but there are assessments that are specific to neighborhoods. The best way to calculate taxes for Brentwood homes is to go to the Contra Costa County Tax Collectors site and look up the specific taxes and assessment for any Brentwood home you are interested in purchasing.

A short sale is caused when the seller of the home is selling it for less than the seller owes in mortgages and the offer price must be negotiated and agreed with the banks holding the mortgages. Short sales are complex transactions, and “short” has nothing to do with the time it takes to complete the transaction. Call me if you are considering purchasing a short sale property in Brentwood or if you’d like to discuss listing your Brentwood home as a short sale.

Check out www.BrentwoodConnect.com!

It’s a great place for current residents as well as those considering relocating to Brentwood to get information and answers to questions about Brentwood, its government, schools, social events and community organizations. You can post your questions and/or read postings and responses from others.