Remember & Celebrate:

September Holidays

A tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. Also marks the unofficial end of summer.

Honoring the Lives Lost and Heroes of September 11

Another Happy Client

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL:

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🍷 Merlot in Napa Valley

Smooth, approachable, and full of character, Merlot thrives in Napa’s unique terroir. Whether blended with Cabernet in a classic Bordeaux-style wine or enjoyed on its own, Merlot delivers a fruit-forward profile with a plush, velvety texture. Its plummy, juicy notes are beautifully balanced by a savory edge, making it a crowd-pleaser at any tasting.

Wine to Try: Markham Vineyards, Merlot, Napa Valley – a rich expression of Napa Merlot that highlights both elegance and depth.

🌍 International Real Estate Spotlight

🇬🇧 England: Buying a Home in the UK

England’s housing market is known for its historic charm, strong property rights, and global appeal — from London townhouses to countryside cottages.

• Offer & Solicitor: Once you find a property, your offer is made “subject to contract.” A solicitor (real estate lawyer) handles contracts, searches, and legal checks.

• Mortgage & Deposit: A typical mortgage deposit ranges from 5–20% of the purchase price. Non-residents may face stricter lending criteria.

• Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT): Buyers pay a tiered tax on property purchases. Non-UK residents currently pay an additional 2% surcharge.

• Completion: On the agreed date, funds are transferred and you receive the keys.

A 260-acre residential farm in the North Wessex Downs, featuring a Grade II farmhouse, two cottages, extensive farm buildings, and productive arable land. For sale as a whole or in up to four lots.

5 Beds | $8,097,274

Leckhampstead, Berkshire, United Kingdom

Listed by: Carter Jonas Christie's International Real Estate

Ranu Mukherjee

Multidisciplinary artist based in San Francisco, blends painting, installation, performance, film, and sculpture to explore themes of ecology, embodiment, speculative narratives, and global narratives.

Why We Love Her:

• Merges diverse mediums to create evocative, immersive experiences.

• Tackles pressing contemporary themes—from climate to capitalism—with vision and depth.

  
  

• Active educator shaping creative minds at the California College of the Arts.

Kiln

149 Fell St, San Francisco

A recent two-Michelin-star standout in the city, Kiln (led by Chef John Wesley) earned its second star in 2025—highlighting its bold and refined culinary approach.

City Beat: What's New in SF?

Did you know?

City Moves to Remove Controversial Embarcadero Fountain

San Francisco officials have initiated the formal process to remove the Vaillancourt Fountain from Embarcadero Plaza, citing safety concerns and high maintenance costs.

The city's Recreation and Park Department estimates restoration would cost around $29 million, vs. just $2.5 million to remove. The Arts Commission will make the final decision later this fall, with options including destruction, return to the artist, or transfer to a private collector. The Brutalist sculpture, installed in 1972 and fenced off due to safety risks, has met with pushback from preservationists who note its history—surviving the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.

MINCHEN TEAM

FEATURED LISTINGS:

Wanderlust of the Month

Texas Adventures with Steven & Kelly

This month’s travel spotlight takes us to the heart of Texas, where Steve and Kelly recently explored some local favorites. Their trip included a stop at the iconic Matt’s El Rancho in Austin, a restaurant beloved by locals and travelers alike for its legendary Tex-Mex dishes. Known as a must-visit destination, Matt’s El Rancho has been serving up classics like enchiladas, fajitas, and their famous Bob Armstrong Dip for over 70 years.

In between good food and warm Texas hospitality, Steve and Kelly enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere that makes Austin so unique—full of culture, great music, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re passing through on your way to the airport like they did or planning a full getaway, Austin offers an authentic Texas experience that’s worth the trip.

👉 Have you been to Austin? What’s your favorite Tex-Mex spot?

The Vibe This Month

Labor Day Chill Mix

Whether you’re grilling, chilling, or road-tripping, this playlist sets the perfect Labor Day mood. 🍔🌞

We are members of the Compass Sports & Entertainment (S&E) Division created to serve the distinct needs of high-profile Athletes and Celebrity Buyers and Sellers.

#SportsAndEntertainment

Steven Minchen

Broker Associate

DRE# 01367542

M: 415.690.0352

steven@minchenteam.com

Kelly Minchen

REALTOR®

DRE# 01811086

M: 415.619.1728

kelly@minchenteam.com