We Revamped Our Newsletter After Too Much Turkey and Pinot

After getting lots of feedback from our survey (thanks to nearly 100 of you) we got tipsy on Pinot and decided to revamp our newsletter game for 2025. Why? Because the old one got a bit old and we can do better (although it wasn’t your average realtor "market update" newsletter that puts you to sleep faster than a mortgage document.

Here's the deal: Twice a month for now (but maybe weekly in the future), we're dropping the good stuff straight to your inbox. Just bear with us as we move over to a new platform and get in the groove!

Think local real estate intel that actually matters, the data points your financial advisor wishes you knew, and insider tips on which tasting rooms won't judge you for bringing your dog and overstaying your welcome.

What you'll get in your inbox:

• Market moves that matter (without the boring parts)

• Homes for sale that make you go "hmmm"

• Local news that impacts you

• The secret spots only locals know about

• Data that'll make you sound smart at dinner parties

And yes, we're still bringing great information but some less serious stuff as well – because who says real estate can't be fun? (Our compliance department, probably, but we don't listen to them.)

Stick around. If nothing else, you'll learn which Healdsburg restaurants have the best Happy Hour deals. That alone is worth the price of admission (which is free, but don't tell anyone).

Table of Contents

• The Insider's Guide to Wine Country's Best Members …

• Train Tracks & Traffic: Wine Country's Getting Clo …

• $2M in Sonoma: From Redwood Retreats to Wine Count …

• "Honey, Cancel Our Flight to Tuscany" (This Healds …

• Share the Local Love

Local Lifestyle

The Insider's Guide to Wine Country's Best Members-Only Spots

From the bustling Healdsburg Plaza to hidden Alexander Valley estates, here are 5 wine clubs that deliver value beyond just bottles - perfect for part-time residents or those planning the big move north.

The Lineup:

• Robert Young Estate (Alexander Valley): 300 acres, keeping only top 7% for their label. Multi-generational farming family hosting intimate dinners in historic barns.

• Lambert Bridge (Dry Creek): One 100-person harvest table under maple trees, silent disco parties (really), and member-only cooking classes.

• Dutcher Crossing: 35 different wines, dog-friendly paradise, and vineyard tours to spots where "you think you can't go any further, then take a left and go 5 more miles."

• Marine Layer (Healdsburg Plaza): Small-batch production (250-1,000 cases per wine) with pop-up dinners featuring SF's hottest chefs.

• Chalk Hill: 1,300 acres, 7 soil types, 20 microclimates. Their Sauvignon Blanc party at Windy Ridge draws owners and members alike.

Bonus Pick: Fat Dragon Wines (new launch) - focusing on Rhône-style blends, a rarity in Cab/Zin country.

Why This Matters: These clubs combine serious wine with instant community access - think private chef dinners, vineyard walks with growers, and events where you'll actually want to stay past the first pour.

Do you have any secret gems we should know about? Hit reply and let us know

Local News

Train Tracks & Traffic: Wine Country's Getting Closer

The project that feels like it's been going on since the dawn of time (or at least since I moved to the US 16 years ago) is finally wrapping up. The Petaluma Narrows - that stretch of 101 that's been under construction since flip phones were cool - hits completion July 2025.

But the bigger news might be SMART's aggressive push north. The state just greenlit $81M to extend the line to Healdsburg, including rebuilding that massive Russian River rail bridge. Think about it: by 2028, you'll be able to hop on a train in Larkspur, laptop and latte in hand, and step off in downtown Healdsburg. Windsor gets connected even sooner - 2025 - with a shiny new station and over 3 miles of rehabbed track.

The numbers that matter:

• $767M Narrows project wraps July 2025

• 52-mile continuous HOV lane (Richmond Bridge to Windsor)

• SMART's Windsor extension: 3 miles rehabbed track + 1 mile new track

• Healdsburg line funded: $81M for track, safety systems, bike paths

• Ultimate goal: 70-mile corridor from Larkspur to Cloverdale

Here's what's interesting: SMART's ridership isn't just commuters anymore. We're seeing retirees heading to lunch in Healdsburg, kids taking the train to school, and 15% of riders bringing bikes aboard for wine country adventures.

Want to know which parcels near future stations are quietly changing hands? Hit reply.

Local Real Estate

$2M in Sonoma: From Redwood Retreats to Wine Country Estates

Wondering how far $2M stretches across Sonoma County's most desirable zip codes? We dove deep into six prime locations to show you exactly what that a $2m budget buys in 2024 – from a Sebastopol farmhouse that sparked a 13-offer bidding war to a Santa Rosa stunner projected to generate $188k in annual vacation rental income.

Quick hits on what caught our eye in the $2m mark as we go into 2025:

• 2205 Trinity Road, Glen Ellen listed at $1.85m. It’s only 1 bed but amazing views. If you want a little income you can vacation rent it out

• Occidental's 2263 Joy Rd: 3,700 sqft modern retreat on 4 acres with pool + rare vacation rental permit for $1.895m

• 2315 Schultz Road, Kenwood: This caught our eye as a great second home in the heart of wine country with a pool

• 20410 Harrington Drive, Sonoma: Minutes to the famed Sonoma plaza, it’s small but perfectly formed for a wine country escape

• 1010 Trentadue Way, Healdsburg: If you missed out on the neighboring new build that just sold, this is one of the few options for new construction in Healdsburg. Watch out for a price reduction!

Look, we get it – dropping $2M isn't just about ROI. You want the wine country lifestyle without sacrificing smart investment potential. Each of these spots offers a unique blend of community vibe, rental potential, and that coveted Sonoma County charm.

Want to see some of the best properties that sold last year for $2m then click here to see our blog post outlining some of the best properties.

New Listing

"Honey, Cancel Our Flight to Tuscany" (This Healdsburg Villa Just Saved Us a Trip)

Ever dreamed of sipping espresso on your Italian villa's balcony? Well, pack away your passport as this just came on the market – we found your slice of European living right here in Healdsburg, and it comes with better wine.

Meet 604 Coghlan Road, Healdsburg: Where old-world charm meets Healdsburg sophisticated modern amenities."

The stats that'll make you swoon:

• 3,456 sqft of "is this Healdsburg or Florence?"

• 4 beds, 4 baths (including a ground-floor suite that's perfect for the in-laws or long terms guests - they may be too comfortable!!)

• 0.5 acres of oak-studded yard begging for your dream pool

• Wolf stove (because your Sunday sauce deserves better)

• All for $2.595m

But here's the real scoop: The current owners used this place as their pandemic paradise, transforming it from a house into a full-blown family compound. Their kids went from Zoom University under the oak trees to epic patio dinner parties. Meanwhile, an aging relative got their own first-floor suite – close enough for Sunday dinners, far enough for peace and quiet.

Picture this: You're hosting a wine country dinner party. The kitchen island's loaded with apps, music's flowing through built-in speakers, and your guests are debating whether they're in Healdsburg or Tuscany. (Spoiler: You got the better deal – try finding a Michelin-starred restaurant next to an Italian villa.)

Ready to live la dolce vita, Healdsburg style? If you don’t believe me watch this video

This isn't just another wine country listing – it's your ticket to the European lifestyle you've been dreaming of, minus the jet lag.

Share the Local Love

• Got friends dreaming of wine country life? Share this newsletter and save them from doomscrolling Zillow

• Follow our somewhat professional adventures on Instagram @bruingtonhargreaves

• Check our YouTube for weekly local market updates (and occasional winery mishaps)

David & Jonathan here – the guys who write about real estate but really just want to talk about our favorite taco trucks. Hit us up about anything Sonoma County (or beyond). Whether you're buying, selling, or just want to know which wineries actually welcome dogs – we've got you covered.