Property Management Since the mid-1970s

About Our Legacy

D & G Equity Management is one of the largest and oldest property management companies in Sonoma County. D & G was founded in 1982 by owners Michael DeProto, a licensed California real estate broker, and Patricia Gerlach. Michael and Patty, a husband-and-wife team, built the business from the ground up into the vibrant, successful full-service property management company it is today. Their two daughters, Jill and Ellen, have joined the family business. Jill is also a licensed real estate broker.

We have an important role in our community to provide healthy housing to qualified individuals. D & G knows the important role of conscientious property management and is committed to ensuring that we provide excellent customer service. Our extraordinary staff is dedicated to finding the best home for our customer and the best tenant for our client.

We have long term clients whom have been working with us since the company was founded and continue their loyalty to this day. We feel having a line of open communication with both our clients and tenants is one of the many reasons for our longevity.

Our high expectations inspire our clients to improve their properties. Maintaining and upgrading the properties attracts the desirable, happy tenant. Our experience is that a happy tenant will take care of the property as if it were their own.

We have several, innovative ways of advertising D & G. Beyond our own, always current, website: dandgequity.com; we place our listings on numerous websites. We personally take the photos of each home, capturing the features that a qualified individual is seeking. We create the ads ourselves, with a keen eye to making sure that all photos represent the property accurately. We take pride in the presentation of all our homes.

D & G and Russian River Vacation Homes staff members connect with our community by being volunteers in many organizations, from the local radio station and nonprofit agencies, to our Rotary club.

For further information please contact the following:

Michael DeProto – CEO of corporation, Managing Broker, Commercial Property Services, and Inquiries / email: michael@dandgequity.com
Patricia Gerlach – President of Corporation / email: patty@riverhomes.com
Jill DeProto – Secretary of Corporation, Broker, Home and Commercial Sales, Accounting, and Property Manager/ email: jill@dandgequity.com
Pete Gilmore – Real Estate Licensee, General Contractor, Maintenance Supervisor, Property Inspections for Residential and Commercial, Sales / email: pete@dandgequity.com
Carley Rydberg – Office Administrator, email: admin@dandgequity.com
Inquires – All inquires for our rental properties / email: inquiries@dandgequity.com

Contact Us

Our Team

Michael DeProto – CEO, Managing REALTOR®/Broker & Commercial Property Services

License #01920878

I have been managing property in Sonoma County for 40 years. As a licensed real estate broker and active community member it has been my goal to provide safe and clean homes and commercial spaces that make people happy to be in them.

I have been instrumental in renovating many properties, most recently the renovation of a large block of storefronts in Guerneville. It is my goal to enhance the owners investment in the property and the tenants enjoyment of it. I am a member of several community organizations including local chambers of commerce and real estate industry groups. I have been a member of Russian River Rotary for over thirty years, where I have served as President, secretary, and treasurer and worked to increase its fundraising and contributions to schools and students. I am proud of the longevity and growth of my property management business and have clients who have been with us for over thirty five years.

2016 Member of North Bay Association of REALTORS® and BAREIS MLS

Office: 707-869-0808 ext 103

Fax: 707-869-1739

Patricia Gerlach – President & Accounting

As the co-founder of D&G Equity I have worked for the last 40 years to maintain the records for our clients. We have instituted many innovations in our tracking and accounting programs. I have gone from pen and paper to state of the art database systems. Through all the changes it has always been my goal to strive for the highest degree of accuracy and clarity.

I am an active member of the river community. Over the years I have participated in local organization including Guerneville School’s GATE program, and River to Coast Children’s Services, where I am presently the board treasurer. My greatest pleasure is to gaze off my deck at the beautiful redwood forest that surrounds me and know that this is truly my home.

Office: 707-869-0808 ext 104

Fax: 707-869-1739

Jill DeProto – Manager, REALTOR®/Broker, Property Management Services

License #01173800

I joined D & G Equity Management and Russian River Vacation Homes in 1986 — just in time to get a crash course in property management during a major flood! During my four decades as Manager of D & G Equity Management, our family business has expanded to include the Sebastopol, Santa Rosa, Wikiup, Windsor, and Rohnert Park areas. It has become the “go to” Property Management Company in West County.

As both a licensed California Real Estate Broker and a member of the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM), I work with homeowner clients to improve their properties. That and building relationships with “blue ribbon” tenants are the most rewarding aspects of my job. As of April 2018, we added sales to our list of services offered. Having the property management experience provides me with a wealth of knowledge needed to be successful in the field. Whether people are finding a rental property or purchasing a house, I hold the highest level of fiduciary relationships with my clients, customers, and tenants, and it gives me great reward when they find the place they can call home.

Most people know of my passion for food and wine, horses and community service. I was a professional barrel racer and horse trainer early on and was crowned Rodeo Queen in my district in 1981. Beginning in 2005, I was a member of the Russian River Rotary Club and of the Sebastopol Sunrise Rotary Club from 2006 to 2011. I served as president from 2008 to 2009 and as Rotary District 5130 Assistant Governor from 2010 to 2011, organizing several large district events during my term. I was also honored in serving as the Rotary District Governor’s Aid. The highlight of my Rotary membership was organizing local events, including the Community Holiday Dinner where I put my culinary education to use.

These days, I am focused on the ever-changing field of Property Management and keeping current with all the Tenant/Landlord laws that come with it! And, I remain dedicated to our community.

2016 Member of North Bay Association of REALTORS® and BAREIS MLS

Office: 707-869-0808 ext 107

Fax: 707-869-1739

Email: jill@dandgequity.com

Carley Rydberg – Office Administrator

Born and raised in the heart of Forestville, I’ve always felt a deep connection to West County and the Russian River communities—it’s more than just where I lived; it’s where I feel most at home. In March of 2025, I was proud to join the D&G team, bringing with me over 16 years of experience in customer-facing roles that have given me a unique perspective on both the rental industry and the local community.

Pete Gilmore – Maintenance Supervisor

Hello, my name is Pete Gilmore. I moved to California from Pennsylvania in 1985. I have spent over two decades working as a specialty contractor, fabricating natural stone slabs. In this capacity, I was able to work on projects as far away as Jakarta, Hawaii, Canada and various points on the East Coast.

Upon leaving the contracting and special project trades, I found myself drawn into the music industry. I became a Customer Service representative for a music venue owned by a member of the Grateful Dead. After ten years, the venue closed and I decided to return to my tradesmen roots. I started doing vacation home inspections with Russian River Vacation Homes and transitioned to D & G Equity Management. My new goals include being an approachable and helpful Maintenance Manager while becoming an integral part of D & G Equity and the community. I look forward to working with the many clients, owners, residents, tradesmen, and contractors.

I have lived in Forestville since 2004 with my wife, who is a Winemaker. We don’t think we could live anywhere else. Our backyard literally ends at the banks of the Russian River with amazing views, surrounded by towering redwoods. My hobbies include; backpacking and mineral collecting. I also have a home art studio, where I hand sculpt stone wine racks out of Amber Onyx that I gathered from the Uinta mountain range in Utah.

Locally-Driven Sonoma County Property Management Services

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High Ethical Standards

Our business was born and has grown with the highest level of ethical standards in the industry.

Residential Services

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Building & Retaining Relationships

It’s proven when D & G is building relationships because we retain Clients who hired us decades ago still to this day.

Commercial Services

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How We Value Properties

We value and take care of properties as if they are our own. We understand our neighborhoods and protect Client’s investments.

Short Term Services

Residential Services

Commercial Services

Short Term Services

Facts

We’ve Been in Business for Over 45 Years

You’re contacting a company that’s family-owned and local since the mid-1970s.

Our Clients are Loyal and We are Loyal Too

We have been working with some of our property owners and maintenance experts ever since we opened our doors.

We Lead With Our Values

Our customized services are more than rent collection and tenant placement to us – we are all about your success.

We Care about Our Community

Our team volunteers in many organizations, local radio, nonprofits, and Rotary Club.

We are Passionate about Building Relationships

Investing in and maintaining owner and tenant relationships makes us stewards of property ownership.

You’ll Love Our Unparalleled Service

Our talented team takes care of your unique needs every step of the way. We work hard to exceed expectations.

See What People Are Saying About Us

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Nov 23, 2025

Google - Shayne Sills

*****BEWARE LIKELY A SCAM***** This place demanded a full application with social securty number, and a ton of other personal info before even scheduling a showing, I think it might be a scam to steal info. The application is very long, I got about halfway through it (15 minutes) and then their webpage broke and I lost all my progress. I called and let them know I felt uncomfortable with the application and had a 800 credit score and around 10x the rent in gross monthly income. They decided I was not worth showing the property to, which doesn't seem legitimate, as the property has not been rented for 4 months. Either they are incredibly lazy and do not want to do showings, or they are a scam to steal personal info.

Business Owner replied on Nov 24, 2025:

Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns. We’re sorry to hear about your experience and appreciate the opportunity to clarify our process.

Our application system is operated through a third-party software provider, and some fields—such as Social Security numbers and ID—are optional. We understand not everyone is comfortable providing that information before viewing a property, which is why we do not require it at the initial stage. The purpose of completing the application in advance is simply to confirm who will be viewing the property, ensure the property is a good fit for the applicant, and help streamline the process should you decide to move forward. This step has proven helpful and efficient for many applicants, especially in a competitive rental market.

We also understand that the software malfunction you experienced was frustrating. Unfortunately, we do not control the functionality of the third-party platform, but we have passed along similar issues in the past to help improve their service.

Our Office Administrator did speak with you and explained our policies. At no point did we decide that you were “not worth showing” the property to. We take pride in being responsive and professional, and we work very hard to manage our properties and show them to qualified applicants. The suggestions that we are lazy or operating a scam are simply not accurate. We have been a family-run business in Sonoma County for decades and maintain many long-term relationships with owners, tenants, and community partners.

We respect your decision not to proceed with the application, and we genuinely wish you the best in your housing search. If you have further questions or concerns, we are always happy to discuss them directly.

Jill DeProto, Broker #01173800
D & G Equity Management

Nov 22, 2025

Google - JoAnn Black

Excellent, professional yet friendly communication and service. Thank you!

Nov 18, 2025

Google - Ursuline Carpetta

D&G Equity is an excellent property management company, with a very professional and knowledgeable staff. They have managed my property for over 30 years.

Nov 18, 2025

Google - Chuck Greninger

The D and G Equity staff have been doing a GREAT job for me over the years. They are very responsive and attentive to me.

Business Owner replied on Nov 19, 2025:

Thank you Chuck for the review. You and your sister have been a long term client for years and we appreciate your commitment to us over the years!
Jill DeProto, Broker #01173800

Oct 15, 2025

Google - Gary

I have used D&G for over 20 years. They are fantastic. We have multiple rental properties, which are in the river area and Santa Rosa. D&G takes care of everything in the most professional way. I would not change. They have a tough job.

Oct 8, 2025

Google - David Vergari

Competent. Very helpful in every aspect

Oct 1, 2025

Google - Michael Ballesteros

I've rented through D&G Equity Managment since 2020-2025 and have consistantly experienced excellent and responsive service from Jill DeProto and colleagues Pete and Carley. They all run a very busy company with efficiency, professionlism, and with an approach that always made me feel like I was their priority. It's because of Jill that I found a great place to call home and I am grateful for her efforts and to the supportive staff that made renting worry-free. I highly recommend D&G Equity to anyone looking for a company that cares about their tenants and property owners as well.

Business Owner replied on Oct 2, 2025:

Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience! It’s been our pleasure to support you over the years, and we’re truly grateful for the trust you placed in D&G Equity Management. Knowing that our efforts helped you find a great place to call home means a lot to us. I’ll be sure to share your thoughtful feedback with Pete and Carley as well—they’ll be so glad to hear it.

We wish you all the best moving forward and sincerely appreciate your recommendation. Thank you for being part of the D&G community!

Warm regards,
Jill DeProto & the D&G Equity Management Team

Sep 24, 2025

Google - Mary Milton

For many years D&G Management has efficiently met the needs of my rental property. D&G is a well-known and respected business in the community.

Aug 16, 2025

Google - Debra Hightower

I've worked with D&G for 20 years and have never been disappointed with their service. All of my dealings have been positive. I will go back to them whenever I need my place rented out again. They are great to work with.

Aug 13, 2025

Google - Karen Cox

Really knowledgeable electrician...did a great job

Jul 3, 2025

Google - Crystal Alexander

HORRIBLE! Scam! I applied to rent a house from Jill at D&G Equities ($50.00 fee!!) . I live in Oregon, (after the Sonoma fires being displaced) but I’m from Sonoma County. Lived there nearly all my life. 6 generations of my family live/lived there. After renting from same landlord over 15+ years in two different states, never missing a rent payment, and I am a retired professional in the housing industry (Burbank Housing) I was made to drive down to see the place. I asked for a video tour and that I was fine renting sight unseen. Jill insisted I view in person. Over 4 days total of driving and 3 hotels and $$$$$$ gas later, I viewed the place and said I’d take it. I was asked to fill out an application so I did, asked for my bank statements , so I did. Asked for other monthly income so I sent that. Then NOTHING! My current landlord called the office after a week or so but there was no answer. He wanted to give them my excellent references. He called again and left a message. Still nothing. So I contacted the receptionist asking what’s the update. Still Nothing! Email saying can’t reach my land lord. He already called twice! Then finally spoke to Jill. I never heard back from them. I text, emailed and called still no word. So I waited. I have over $50k in my bank not to mention other bank accounts, stocks, Bitcoin, even a gold bar! I finally reached Jill over two weeks later. She said she doesn’t think I make enough to pay my rent! I was shocked! She placed me on hold for close to 10 Minutes! How is THAT professional? I finally let her know if you want to rent to me then rent then I’ll rent from you. If not, please just let me know! I asked her politely if she would call me back because she wanted to discuss with the owner. I said great. Please just call me back and let me know. I thanked her for all her hard work and help . Said good bye. Today two and a half weeks later after I cried the property, she emails me that the owner wants to go with another “option”. The house is vacant and I doubt there were any other options. I do not recommend renting from D&G Inequities as they are biased against disabled seniors who are on SSDI AND aren’t working. She was not efficient nor fair. With a great reference, excellent credit history, cash in my account plus a monthly stipend and interest on my CD ,stocks, and Bitcoin. There was no reason to be denied! Boo Jill. This is your parents company and you show up as burnt out and not helpful in finding housing thru their company. I hope other people steer clear of this agency for renting housing.

Business Owner replied on Jul 7, 2025:

Deary Crystal,
At D & G Equity Management, we are deeply committed to fair and unbiased housing practices, and we strictly adhere to all fair housing laws. We evaluate all applications based on consistent, objective criteria, which include financial qualifications and rental history, for all prospective tenants.

While we cannot discuss the specifics of any application publicly due to privacy concerns, we want to assure all our clients that we never discriminate based on age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We have a diverse clientele, and our policy is to treat everyone with respect and fairness throughout the rental process.

We wish you the very best in your housing search.

Sincerely,
The Management Team at D & G Equity Management

Jun 19, 2025

Google - Yvette Bidegain

D&G is an exceptional rental agency. They have been very responsive to our needs for maintenance on our restaurant. They have gone above and beyond to assist. The concern they have shown us to helping us get our restaurant open has been amazing. We are forever grateful to them. I highly recommend them.

May 14, 2025

Google - Margie Cramer

Apr 22, 2025

Google - Lynne Reed Ph.D.

Replacement of malfunctioning light fixtures was done quickly and professionally.

Apr 16, 2025

Google - Nathan Pirone

The owners and personnel at D & G always strive to be thorough and diligent. We have enjoyed working with them the past 6 years

Business Owner replied on Apr 17, 2025:

Thank you Nathan. We appreciate your dedication to our family businesses and the care you show in your work!
Jill DeProto, Broker #01173800

Apr 5, 2025

Google - Keri Knecht

very helpful!! we had been looking for a rental for months with no luck and they made the process very smooth, with open communication and direction. Definitely recommend them!

Business Owner replied on Apr 7, 2025:

We all hope you are enjoying your new home!

Jill DeProto, Broker #01173800
D & G Equity Management

Mar 18, 2025

Google - Anna Kelly

Terrible customer service, all employees are very unhelpful and throw unprofessional attitude

Business Owner replied on Mar 18, 2025:

Dear Anna,
Our apologies for your frustration however, we keep detail logs of all calls and in person office visits , and we don't show or have any knowledge of your name or correspondence anywhere in our database so please express your concerns directly to me by phoning my office, 707-869-0808 ext #107.
Much appreciated!

Jill DeProto, Broker #01173800
D & G Equity Management
jill@dandgequity.com

Mar 12, 2025

Google - john macon

D&G Equity does a great job with my Russian River rentals. Their team Jill, Pete and everyone there is amazing.

Business Owner replied on Mar 13, 2025:

Thank you, John, You are truly wonderful to work with!

Jill DeProto, Broker #01173800
D & G Equity Management

Jan 3, 2025

Google - Nicole Ojeda

Update: The canned response below goes to show that I’m not the only person to have this opinion. D&G Property Management was negligent and irresponsible. They rarely if at all check on the properties they “manage”. Or address the needs of owners. They allow destruction of property and disruption of neighborhoods. And then they’ll demand thousands of dollars to clean the mess left behind by the tenant they allowed to wreck your home. Look elsewhere for reliable and ethical property management.

Business Owner replied on Jan 4, 2025:

After reviewing our records, it appears that you are not a current or past client of ours, so I’m uncertain where your information is coming from. Our company has been in business since the mid-70s, and we pride ourselves on supporting our community, neighborhoods, and clients.

Since your review doesn’t specify which property you’re referring to, it’s difficult for me to respond directly to any concerns. However, I can assure you that we work diligently to maintain all of our properties in a clean, safe, and habitable condition, and we have built lasting relationships with our property owners.

I do understand that rising costs can be frustrating, especially with the expenses related to vacancies and turnover, but it’s something that comes with managing and maintaining properties to a high standard.

Please feel free to provide more details about the property in question, and I would be happy to address your review with specifics.

Thank you,
Jill DeProto
Broker, D & G Equity Management