The Blog
Life, local color, and real estate in the North State.
Notes from around Chico and the North State: the places I love, what's happening nearby, and honest, useful takes on buying and selling here. A little bit of everything that makes this a wonderful place to call home.
Best Chico Neighborhoods for Halloween Decorations and Trick-or-Treating
The two Chico neighborhoods that go all out for Halloween, Amber Grove and California Park, plus when to take little kids versus older ones and what to bring.
Local LifeHalloween Events in Butte County 2026: The Full Guide
A week-by-week guide to Halloween 2026 in Butte County: Treat Street, the Oroville Frights and Lights Parade, haunted houses, trunk-or-treats, and family events.
Local LifePumpkin Patches and Fall Farms Near Chico
A local's guide to pumpkin patches near Chico, from in-town TJ Farms Estates and Book Family Farm in Durham to the best heritage gourds up at Julia's in Dairyville.
BuyersHow Much House Can You Afford in Chico?
What actually determines your budget in Chico and Butte County, including the insurance and property tax costs national calculators leave out.
Local LifeA Fall Weekend in Butte Creek Canyon and Forest Ranch
The rebuilt Honey Run Covered Bridge, river otters on Butte Creek, and the drive up Highway 32 through Forest Ranch. A fall day trip from Chico.
Local LifeLiving in Durham, CA: What to Know Before You Move
What it is like to live in Durham, California. Housing, wells and septic, farming realities, the school district, and who the town actually fits.
BuyersIs Fall a Good Time to Buy a House in Chico?
Why fall is often the best season to buy in Chico: less competition, more negotiating room, and inspections that happen once the rain arrives.
BuyersFire Insurance in Paradise and Magalia: What Buyers Need to Know
How fire insurance works in Paradise and Magalia, the FAIR Plan rate increase taking effect October 15, and what buyers should do before writing an offer.
Local LifeWhere to Watch the Fall Salmon Run in Oroville
See Chinook salmon at the Feather River Fish Hatchery in Oroville. Underwater viewing window, fish ladder, best months, and the Salmon Festival.
Home MaintenanceFall Home Maintenance Checklist for Butte County Homeowners
A fall maintenance checklist for Chico, Paradise and Butte County homes. Gutters, drainage, heating, defensible space and the new Zone 0 rules.
Local LifeFarmers Markets in Chico, Durham, Paradise and Butte County
Chico, Durham and Paradise farmers market days, hours and locations, plus what produce is in season each month in Butte County.
BuyersBuying Under $450K in Chico? Here's What You Actually Need to Know
National headlines say the market is cooling. In Butte County's under-$450K range, good homes still move in days, sometimes hours. Here's how to be ready.
BuyersDo I Need 20% Down to Buy a Home in Chico, CA?
The 20% down payment is one of the most common myths in real estate. Here's what you actually need to buy a home in Chico and Butte County.
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