April 2026  |  Contra Costa County Edition

Real Estate. Dogs. East Bay Living.
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  Hello Friends!
Welcome to Homes & Hounds. This newsletter was created to make real estate insights easier, lighter, and a lot more enjoyable to follow. My goal is to share the knowledge that helps you stay informed about our local market, while also highlighting the East Bay lifestyle that makes living here so special.
 
And of course, no Homes & Hounds update would be complete without celebrating the dogs that make our neighborhoods feel like home.
 

 
A well trained dog will make no attempt to share your lunch. He will just make you feel so guilty that you cannot enjoy it.
 

Meet Gabrielle Walker
Gabrielle Walker is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty known for her thoughtful guidance, local expertise, and relationship first approach, helping buyers and sellers navigate the East Bay market with clarity and confidence.

Gabrielle Walker
Realtor® 
Coldwell Banker Realty
DRE #02234317
GabrielleWalkerHomes.com

 
The Leash-Long Market Snapshot
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Here is a snapshot of the Contra Costa County real estate market based on last months activity.
 
Active Listings  14
Closed Sales  32
Days on Market  20
Avg. Sales Price  $1.64M
Avg. List Price  $1.02M
 
February 2026 Real Estate Market Report. Source: CCAR Contra Costa Association of REALTORS®.

 
 
Sit. Stage. Sell.
Key Factors to Successfully Selling Your Home
1.  Accurate Pricing From Day One
Homes priced correctly from the start tend to attract stronger interest and most competitive offers. 
2.  Excellent Presentation Creates Momentum
Small updates, thoughtful staging, and professional photography help highlight a home’s key features and increase perceived value, as buyers quickly recognize homes that feel move-in ready and well cared for.

 
 
Let's Fetch Your Dream Home
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Why Home Ownership Matters for Dog Owners
 
1. STABILITY
Long-term stability and predictable costs help you choose a home that truly supports life with your dog.
 
2. FREEDOM
Avoiding pet deposits, breed restrictions, and frequent moves provides greater freedom and consistency for your companion.
 
3. CONTROL
Greater control over your space brings lasting peace of mind for both you and your dog.
 

 
 
Pup of the Month
Meet Kiki!
Kiki is a three year old Shiba Inu known for her confidence and independence. Intelligent, loyal, and full of personality, she turns heads wherever she goes and, like many Shiba's, listens very well when she decides it is time.
Lafayette, CA

 
 
Bone Appetite - Pup Approved DIY Treats
Hoppy Carrot & Peanut Butter Bites
Packed with protein, vitamins, and omega-3s, these tasty treats support your pup’s health while keeping them happy.
Protein Packed | Yummy | Pup Approved
Ingredients
 
• 1 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
• 1 1/2 cups oats (rolled oats or quick oats)
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
• 2 tablespoons honey 
• 2 tablespoons water 
 
(Optional: roll in shredded coconut for a finished look.)
 Instructions
 
  1. Add all ingredients to a large bowl and mix until combined.
  2. Roll into small egg shapes using your hands. 
  3. Place on a tray and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes, until firm.
  4. Serve & store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
 
Check with your vet, serve in moderation and always supervise snack time.

 
 
Paws & Petals
 
What to Plant This Month
 
Spinach
Radishes
Strawberries
Lettuce
 
 
Plants that are Poisonous to Pets
 
Tulips
Daffodils
 

 
 

 
Disclosures
"All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. Pricing, property details, and availability are subject to change without notice. The broker and agent assume no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein."
 
PROPERTY MATERIALS, including CBGL (must include agent’s individual license number) The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2026 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. CalRE #01908304 (Include company license number only on materials that mention agents in general.)
 
1981 N Broadway Ste 100
Walnut Creek, California 94596, United States