Friday, December 10, 2010

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

Here are some great holiday safety tips to keep in mind throughout the holiday season.The holidays are an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have a safe holiday season, here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Please feel free to excerpt these tips or use them in their entirety for any print or broadcast story, with acknowledgment of the source.
Trees

When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label "Fire Resistant."

When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and when bent between your fingers, needles do not break. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.

When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways.

Cut a few inches off the trunk of your tree to expose the fresh wood. This allows for better water absorption and will help keep your tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.

Be sure to keep the stand filled with water, because heated rooms can dry live trees out rapidly.

Lights

Check all tree lights-even if you've just purchased them-before hanging them on your tree. Make sure all the bulbs work and that there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections.

Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.

Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. To hold lights in place, string them through hooks or insulated staples, not nails or tacks. Never pull or tug lights to remove them.

Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks.

Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.

Decorations

Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or nonleaded metals.

Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked over.

In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable. Keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to prevent them from swallowing or inhaling small pieces. Avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a young child to eat them.

Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass "angel hair." Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.

Remove all wrapping papers, bags, paper, ribbons and bows from tree and fireplace areas after gifts are opened. These items can pose suffocation and choking hazards to a small child or can cause a fire if near flame.

Toy Safety

Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child. Toys too advanced may pose safety hazards for younger children.

Before buying a toy or allowing your child to play with a toy that he has received as a gift, read the instructions carefully.

To prevent both burns and electrical shocks, don’t give young children (under age ten) a toy that must be plugged into an electrical outlet. Instead, buy toys that are battery-operated.

Children under age three can choke on small parts contained in toys or games. Government regulations specify that toys for children under age three cannot have parts less than 1 1/4 inches in diameter and 2 1/4 inches long.

Children can have serious stomach and intestinal problems – including death -- after swallowing button batteries and magnets. Keep them away from young children and call your health care provider immediately if your child swallows one.

Children under age 8 can choke or suffocate on uninflated or broken balloons. Remove strings and ribbons from toys before giving them to young children.

Watch for pull toys with strings that are more than 12 inches in length. They could be a strangulation hazard for babies.

Parents should store toys in a designated location, such as on a shelf or in a toy chest, and keep older kids’ toys away from young children.

Food Safety

Bacteria are often present in raw foods. Fully cook meats and poultry, and thoroughly wash raw vegetables and fruits.

Be sure to keep hot liquids and foods away from the edges of counters and tables, where they can be easily knocked over by a young child’s exploring hands. Be sure that young children cannot access microwave ovens..

Wash your hands frequently, and make sure your children do the same.

Never put a spoon used to taste food back into food without washing it.

Always keep raw foods and cooked foods separately, and use separate utensils when preparing them.

Always thaw meat in the refrigerator, never on the countertop.

Foods that require refrigeration should never be left at room temperature for more than two hours.

Happy Visiting

Clean up immediately after a holiday party. A toddler could rise early and choke on leftover food or come in contact with alcohol or tobacco.

Remember that the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.

Keep a list with all of the important phone numbers you or a baby-sitter are likely to need in case of an emergency. Include the police and fire department, your pediatrician and the national Poison Help Line, 1-800-222-1222. Laminating the list will prevent it from being torn or damaged by accidental spills.

Traveling, visiting family members, getting presents, shopping, etc., can all increase your child's stress levels. Trying to stick to your child's usual routines, including sleep schedules and timing of naps, can help you and your child enjoy the holidays and reduce stress.

Fireplaces

Before lighting any fire, remove all greens, boughs, papers, and other decorations from fireplace area. Check to see that the flue is open.

Use care with "fire salts," which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten. Keep them away from children.

Do not burn gift wrap paper in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

2010 - American Academy of Pediatrics

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Buy This 3 Bedroom Condo For Less Than Rent!

I was working with a client of mine and decided I should share this with all the renters out there.  You can buy a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo for what many people are spending to rent a 2 bedroom.  Here is the breakdown...

Sales Price:                                  $180,000
FHA down payment of 3.5%      -$   6,300
Loan amount                                $173,700

Monthly payments would look like this based on above and a 4.5% interest rate.

$881.00 estimated pricipal and interest
$188.00 estimated property taxes
$ 50.00 estimated insurance
$295.00 estimated HOA Fee
-----------
$1414.00 total monthly payment!  Take a look at what can be yours.  http://www.postlets.com/res/4714764

If you are paying close to this and especially if you are paying more than this, we need to talk.  Why are you paying someone elses mortgage when you should be paying your own.  Not to mention there are good tax advantages and other perks to owning your own home.  Let me know if you are tired of renting and ready to own or if you would like to pick up another investment.

Monday, December 6, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate

Here are the real estate statistics for all three zip codes in El Cajon for the month of November 2010. I have included the active, pending and sold listings for single family detached.

92019 zip code

There are currently 140 active listings in El Cajon (92019), ranging from $175,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1131 square feet to $2,595,000 for a 4 bedroom, 6 bath, 5890 square feet.

37 properties are pending, currently in escrow.
16 properties sold in November, (closed escrow) ranging from $220,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1224 square feet to $772,580 for 4 bedroom. 4 bathroom, 3702 square feet.


92020 zip code


There are currently 106 active listings in El Cajon (92020), ranging from $150,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 816 square feet to $1,195,000 for a 4 bedroom, 5 bath, 3519 square feet.
46 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

21 properties sold in November, (closed escrow) ranging from $235,000 for 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1035 square feet to $1,065,000 for 4 bedroom. 4 bathroom, 3500 square feet.



92021 zip code

There are currently 111 active listings in El Cajon (92021), ranging from $110,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 760 square feet to $1,795,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 7500 square feet.

46 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

18 properties sold in November, (closed escrow) ranging from $169,000 for 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1230 square feet to $706,000 for 4 bedroom. 3 bathroom, 3223 square feet.


I hope you have a safe and Happy Holiday season.  Please feel free to call me if you need any more information.  Merry Christmas!!









I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas! Be safe and enjoy.

Jamul Real Estate

Happy December everyone!  Here are the real estate statistics for Jamul in November 2010.  I have included the active, pending and sold listings.

There are currently 41 active listings in Jamul, ranging from $159,900 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1223 square feet to $2,301,000 for a 6 bedroom, 5 bath, 6264 square feet.

11 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

4 properties sold in November, (closed escrow) ranging from $270,000 for 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 1622 square feet to $650,000 for 4 bedroom. 3 bathroom, 2519 square feet.

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!  Be safe and enjoy.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Check Your Heater For Free

Yesterday I met SDGE at a client's home to have the pilot lit on a gas wall heater. While I was waiting I realized I should share this with you.  If you have a gas heater, SDG&E will come out for free and light the pilot and inspect the heater to make sure it is working correctly.  Every year we hear of a family that is killed while they are sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning.  Don't let this happen to you.  Call SDG&E and have them check your heater.  They will also check your water heater.

Here is the link to their gas safety page and their phone number.

http://www.sdge.com/documents/forms/s1.pdf

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Controlled Burn Scheduled

November 9, 2010 (Pine Valley) -- Cal-Fire will be burning brush piles on the Corte Madera Ranch south of Pine Valley during the next two days. Smoke will be visible from through the eastern portions of San Diego County. Weather permitting, the burns will begin around 10 a.m. and should be completed by 2 p.m. both days as part of an ongoing vegetation management plan, said Nick Schuler, Cal-Fire battalion chief. Watch for updates with additional details at www.EastCountyMagazine.org.

Monday, November 1, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Stats - October 2010

Here are the real estate statistics for El Cajon for the month of October.  I have included the active, pending and sold properties for the 3 zip codes in El Cajon.  This includes single family detached homes only, if you would like information about the condo market please feel free to let me know.

92019
There are currently 134 active listings (currently on the market).  Ranging from $189,000 for 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1008 square feet to $2,595,000 for 4 bedroom, 6 bathroom, 5890 square feet.

35 properties are pending, (in escrow).

18 properties SOLD in October, (closed escrow).  Ranging from $245,000 for 4 bedrooms, 1 bath, 2068 square feet to $710,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3048 square feet.

92020
There are currently 101 active listings (currently on the market).  Ranging from $134,900 for 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 810 square feet to $1,007,000 for 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 4147 square feet.

45 properties are pending, (currently in escrow).

31 properties SOLD in October, (closed escrow).  Ranging from $130,000 for 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 990 square feet to $800,000 for 4 bedrooms, 3 bathroom, 3291 square feet.

92021
There are currently 120 active listings (currently on the market).  Ranging from $157,900 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 993 square feet to $1,350,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2018 square feet.

36 properties are pending, (currently in escrow).

24 properties SOLD in October, (closed escrow).  Ranging from $145,000 for 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1673 square feet to $765,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 4565 square feet.

There you have it.  If you would like me to pull the numbers from a different area, please give me a call.  I am here to help.  Have a good month and I will update you again next month.  Have a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Jamul Real Estate Stats - October 2010

Today is November 1st so you know what that means...time to see how the real estate market looked for the month of October.  Here is the breakdown for Jamul.

There are currently 45 properties on the market.  Ranging from $250,000 for 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1341 square feet to $1,995,000 for 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 7103 square feet.

There are currently 9 properties pending, which means they are in escrow.

4 properties SOLD in October (closed escrow), ranging from $203,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1126 square feet to $575,000 for 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2726 square feet.

If you are considering buying or selling a home in Jamul, please feel free to give me a call.  I would be happy to help.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

How to buy a foreclosure in a robo-signing world

Here is an article to help you decide if buying a foreclosure is for you. It discusses some of the risks and things to watch out for. The foreclosure market and robo signing issues have been all over the news but what does it all mean to you. Start by reading this article and if you still have questions or need some help, please feel free to call me.

How to buy a foreclosure in a robo-signing world

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

5 Reasons You Should Sell Your House TODAY!

If you have been considering selling your house, here is a great article to read that may help you decide. If you are interested in selling your home, please feel free to give me a call.

5 Reasons You Should Sell Your House TODAY!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate - September 2010

Here is the real estate report for the 3 zip codes in El Cajon.  This is for detached homes only.  If you would like information regarding condos and attached, please feel free to give me a call.

Zip code 92019
There are currently 132 active listings currently on the market, ranging from $199,999 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1008 sqft home to $2,595,000 for a 4 bedroom, 6 bath, 5890 sqft home.

40 properties are pending (currently in escrow).

23 properties sold (closed escrow), ranging from $225,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 810 sqft home to $700,000 for 2 properties, the first a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3259 sqft home and the other a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 2453 sqft home.


Zip Code 92020
There are currently 100 active listings currently on the market, ranging from $164,500 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 810 sqft home to $1,007,000 for a 4 bedroom, 5 bath, 4147 sqft home.

There are 61 pending properties (currently in escrow).

13 properties sold (closed escrow), ranging from $225,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 1118 sqft home to $545,000 for a 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 2366 sqft home.


Zip Code 92021
There are currently 116 active listings currently on the market, ranging from $169,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 958 sqft home to $1,795,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 7500 sqft home.

There are 45 pending properties (currently in escrow).

34 properties sold (closed escrow) ranging from $127,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 900 sqft home to $690,000 for a 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3020 sqft home.

So there you have it.  Please feel free to call me if you are considering buying or selling a home.  I am here to help.  Take care and have a good month.

Jamul Real Estate - September 2010

Here is what happened in the Jamul Real Estate market for the month of Septemeber...

There are currently 49 active listings ranging from $199,900 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1223 sqft home to $1,995,000 for a 4 bedroom, 5 bath, 7103 sqft ft home.

8 properties are pending (currently in escrow).

7 properties sold (closed escrow) in September ranging from $250,000 for a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 1425 sqft home to $880,000 for a 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3690 sqft home.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Are You Looking For a Job - A Friend is Hiring

Automotive shops looking for full time outside sales person that can call on customers daily 8am-5pm. Must have good people skills, takes initiative, is organized, energetic and self-motivated. Professional appearance required. Previous sales experience is a positive but for the right person we will train. Individual needs reliable transportation and a clean driving record. Drug testing is required. Salary is negotiable. Please send resume & we will contact to set-up interview. 

Contact me and I will pass along her contact information.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Spring Valley Fire

 September 18, 2010 (Spring Valley) 2:15 p.m. -- The Jamacha Fire which started around 12:30 today is now 50 acres and forward spread is halted, Chief August Ghio of San Miguel Fire reports.  One home has been damaged.   "We have halted evacuations," Ghio told East County Magazine's editor, who was at the scene, "and we hope to begin letting people back into the area soon." Anxious residents at Lamplighter Village Mobilehome Park in Spring Valley watched as flames encroached just behind the complex and engulfed a portion of Otay Mountain.  Smoke was visible throughout much of East County. Approximately 80 firefighers, 3 helicopters and 2 fixed-wing aircraft are on scene battling the blaze
Kimberlee Quarles 619-987-5143

Fire in Spring Valley

September 18, 2010 (Spring Valley) 12:40 p.m. -- A brush fire has sparked evacuations on Via de la Terra in Spring Valley. Flames are within 100 feet of homes in the area of Jamacha Blvd. and Lamplighter Village
Kimberlee Quarles 619-987-5143

Monday, September 13, 2010

Zillow.com says San Diego home values increase

By Jennifer Davies, UNION-TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 9, 2010 at 11:06 a.m.

San Diego home values increased by 7.8 percent in July — the largest year-over-year appreciation of the 125 metro areas surveyed — says a new report by Zillow.com, a real estate website.
On a monthly basis prices here, inched up just 0.9 percent. Nationally home values declined 0.2 percent from the previous month and were down 3.2 percent from July 2009. Out of 125 metropolitan markets Zillow surveyed, 85 saw negative year-over-year change in home values in July while 13 were flat. Along with San Diego 23 other markets saw a positive annual change. After San Diego, the metro areas with the largest year-over-year increases were Oklahoma City (6.6 percent), San Jose (6.3 percent), San Francisco (6.1 percent), Little Rock (5.8 percent), and Los Angeles (5.7 percent). The areas with the biggest annual declines were Bend (-22.3 percent), Miami-Fort Lauderdale (-16.9 percent), Ocala, Fla. (-16.2 percent), Lakeland, Fla. (-15.3 percent), Grand Junction, Colo. (-13.1 percent), Detroit (-12.9 percent), and Orlando (-12.9 percent).
Note that Zillow.com comes up with its home-value index by looking not only at homes that have sold but also at pending sales as well as homes that are currently not on the market. Some in the real estate industry are critical of the model because they aren’t convinced you can assign a value on a home that isn’t currently on the market.
Locally, the areas with the largest jumps in values were: Del Mar, up 17.1 percent to $1,434,500; Poway, up 13.5 percent to $518,100, and Santee, up 13.2 percent to $340,800. The areas with the largest annual depreciation in July were: Rainbow, down 14.6 percent to $353,900; Rancho Santa Fe down 9.8 percent to $1,918,700; Fairbanks Ranch down 9.5 percent to $2,417,000.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Fire in Campo Near Potrero

September 2, 2010 (San Diego's East County) - The Cowboy Fire reported at 1:13 p.m. is now 20 acres, burning between Campo and Potrero near the Pacific Crest Trail. Incident Page Network indicates the fire is near the junction of Highway 94 and Star Ranch.


"Currently the fire is inaccessible by ground units," Cal-Fire battalion chief Nick Schuler said. "They are attempting to make contact with the fire now," he said, adding that air tankers and helicopters are also on the scene.

Authorities from Cal-Fire, the U.S. Forest Service, San Diego Sheriff's Department, San Diego County Fire Authority, and several volunteer agencies are battling the blaze.

Homes are not threatened at this point. Cause of the fire is under investigation.

El Cajon Real Estate Market Report - August 2010

Here is what happened in the El Cajon real estate market for the month of August 2010.

Zip code 92019

There are currently 122 Activie listing (currently on the market)  ranging from $209,500 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 890sqft to $2,595,000 for 4 bedroom, 6 bath, 5890sqft.

48 properties are pending (currently in escrow)

26 properties SOLD in August (closed escrow) ranging from $226,000 for 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1055sqft to $1,710,000 for 5 bedroom, 7 bath, 7303sqft.


Zip Code 92020

There are currently 106 Active listings (currently on the market) ranging from $169,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 735sqft to $1,150,876 for 6 bedroom, 6 bath, 5600sqft.

47 properties are pending (in escrow)

28 properties SOLD in August (closed escrow) ranging from $179,000 for 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 880sqft to $1,000,000 for 7 bedroom, 5 bath, 3772sqft.


Zip Code 92021

There are currently 105 Active listings (currently on the market) ranging from $100,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1613sqft to $1,795,000 for 6 bedroom, 6 bath, 7500sqft.

48 properties are pending (in escrow)

34 properties Sold in August (closed escrow) ranging from $122,575 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1776sqft to $711,000 for 5 bedroom, 5 bath, 4656sqft.

There you have it.  I hope you all have a great holiday weekend.  Please be safe.  If you know of anyone who wants to sell a home or purchase a new one, please call me.  Be safe.

Jamul Market Stats - August 2010

Here is what happened in the Jamul real estate market in August 2010.

There are currently 52 Active listings (homes currently on the market) ranging from $169,000 for a 2 bedroom 2 bath manufactured home to $2,350,000 for a 6 bedroom, 5 bath, 6264 sqft.

8 properties are pending, (currently in escrow).

8 properties SOLD in August, (closed escrow) ranging from $125,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath to $805,000 for a 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3362 sqft.

I hope you have a great holiday weekend.  Please be safe.  If you know of anyone interested in selling their home or buying a new one, please call me.  I will be working this weekend.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

10 states with the highest share of non-current loans

Statistics released by the Mortgage Bankers Association this week showed the number of homes in the foreclosure process during the second quarter dropped for the first time since 2006.

10 states with the highest share of non-current loans:

1. Florida (23.6 percent)

2. Nevada (21.6 percent)

3. Mississippi (18.4 percent)

4. Georgia (15.6 percent)

5. Arizona (14.6 percent)

6. Illinois (14.5 percent)

7. Ohio (14.4 percent)

8. Indiana (14.3 percent)

9. Louisiana (14.2 percent)

10. Michigan (14.1 percent)

Other states where the percentage of non-current loans exceeded the national average of 13 percent: New Jersey (14.1 percent), Rhode Island (13.7 percent), California (13.5 percent), Tennessee (13.2 percent) and West Virginia (13.1 percent).Source: LPS.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

San Diego Chargers 2010 Schedule

Saturday Aug 21, 6:00 PM, Dallas @ home
Friday, Aug 27, 5:00 PM, @ New Orleans
Thursday, Sept 2, 7:00 PM, @ San Francisco
Monday, Sept 13, 7:15 PM, @ Kansas City
Sunday, Sept 19, 1:15 PM, Jacksonville @ Home
Sunday, Sept 26, 1:15 PM, @ Seattle
Sunday, Oct 3, 1:15 PM, Arizona @Home
Sunday, Oct 10, 1:15 PM, @ Oakland
Sunday, Oct 17, 10:00 AM, @ St. Louis
Sunday, Oct 24, 1:15 PM, New England @ home
Sunday, Oct 31, 1:05 PM, Tennessee @ Home
Sunday, Nov 7, 10:00 AM, @ Houston
Mon, Nov 22, 5:30 PM, Broncos @ Home
Sunday, Nov 28, 5:20 PM, @ Indianapolis
Sunday, Dec 5, 1:05 PM, Oakland @ Home
Sunday, Dec 12, 1:15 PM, Kansas City @ Home
Thursday, Dec 16, 5:20 PM, San Francisco @ Home
Sunday, Dec 26, 5:20 PM, @ Cincinnati
Sunday, Jan 2, 1:15 PM, @ Denver

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Stats - July 2010

Here is what has been happening in the real estate market for the 3 zip codes in El Cajon for the month of July.

92019
There are currently 115 Active listings (currently on the market) ranging from $229,500 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1116 square feet to $2,595,000 for 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 5890 square feet.

52 properties are Pending (in escrow)

15 properties Sold in July (closed escrow) ranging from $231,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1456 square feet to $840,000 for 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3808 square feet.

92020
There are currently 108 Active listings (currently on the market) ranging from $134,000 for 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 780 square feet to $1,400,876 for 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3500 square feet.

50 properties are Pending (in escrow)

25 properties Sold in July (closed escrow) ranging from $169,000 for 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1564 square feet to $690,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3072 square feet.

92021
There are currently 104 Active Listings (currently on the market) ranging from $168,900 for 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1053 square feet to $1,795,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 7500 square feet.

57 properties are Pending (in escrow)

28 properties Sold in July (closed escrow) ranging from $200,000 for 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 980 square feet to $1,200,000 for 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 5838 square feet.


So there you have it.  If you would like information about another zip code in San Diego county, please feel free to let me know and I will get you the information you need.  Have a great month!

Jamul Real Estate Stats for July 2010

Even though it may not feel like it, it IS August.  Here is the market report for Jamul for the month of July.

There are currently 55 Active listings (currently on the market) ranging from $169,000 for 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1584 square foot home to $2,350,000 for 6 bedroom, 5 bath, 6264 square foot home.

There are 8 properties pending (currently in escrow)

3 properties SOLD in Jamul in July (closed escrow): ranging from a 3 bedroon, 2 bath, 1196 square feet for $200,000 to $1,100,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3650 square foot home.

So there you have it.  I will post another market report next month.  Have a good month.

Friday, July 30, 2010

El Cajon - Concerts on the Green

Is anyone interested in listening to some music?  Call me if you want to go to the El Cajon - Concerts on the Green.  Great way to unwind after a busy week on a cool summer night.


Fridays, 6:00 to 8:00 pm
El Cajon Plaza / Amphitheatre
200 Civic Center Way
(formerly 200 East Main Street)

Parking is available at the El Cajon Courthouse on W.D. Hall Drive

Here is the schedule for the remainder of the summer.

July 30 Java (Dance)
August 6 The Stilettos (Rockabilly)
August 13 The Cat-illacs (Rock & Roll)
August 20 The Coolrays (Beach Boys Tribute)
August 27 Diamond is Forever (Neil Diamond Tribute)
September 3 FX5 (Dance)

Thursday, July 29, 2010

S.D. home prices up 12.4% in May

BY JENNIFER DAVIES UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED JULY 27, 2010 AT 6:49 A.M., UPDATED JULY 27, 2010 AT 2:58 P.M.

San Diego home prices increased 12.4 percent in May from a year ago and San Diego was the only metro area in the country with 13 months of consecutive increases in home prices, says the latest Standard & Poor’s Case-Shiller Home Price Index released Tuesday.

San Diego’s increase was the second highest of the 20 metro areas surveyed, with San Francisco taking the top spot with an 18.3 percent increase.

On a monthly basis, San Diego saw its home prices increase 1.1 percent. Since spring is one of the busiest times for home selling, Case-Shiller also provides seasonally adjusted numbers, which showed San Diego with a slightly lower increase at 0.6 percent.

On a nationwide level, prices in the 20 metro areas Case-Shiller tracks were up 4.6 percent from May 2009.

Despite the increases, there are plenty of reasons to be pessimistic about the housing market for the rest of the year.

While prices nationally have improved from the lows hit in April 2009 — San Diego hit its Case-Shiller low in May 2009 — they’ve essentially been flat for much of the past seven months. According to Case-Shiller’s index, home prices in San Diego are at about the same level they were in June 2003.

Maureen Maitland, vice president of Index Services at Standard & Poor’s, said the end of tax credits and the busiest home-buying season means there is little else to prop up home prices.

“Sure, April and May look good. But you have to look at the trends,” she said. “Going forward, all bets are off. You need true economic recovery for the housing market to be sustained.”

Kelly Cunningham, an economist with National University System Institute for Policy Research, said he doesn’t foresee the San Diego region going through another gut-wrenching drop in housing prices but he also doesn’t see any eye-popping gains, either.

“It’s going to be kind of stagnant is the best way to put it,” he said.

Still, stagnant might not be all that bad when compared to other parts of the country. San Diego and other California cities have been performing better than their counterparts in the Sunbelt because they didn’t go through frenzied building sprees during the bubble.

“In coastal California, we have constrained housing development,” Cunningham said. “It comes back down to supply and demand. We don’t have the problems that Las Vegas, Phoenix or even Riverside have.”

Jennifer Davies: (619) 293-1373; jennifer.davies@uniontrib.com

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

What is Title Insurance?

Title insurance companies, unlike property or medical insurance companies work to eliminate risk before something happens.  Title insurance premiums are paid to identify and eliminate potential claims and risk before they happen.  Medical and homeowner insurance premiums are paid to insure against an unpredictable future event.  Title insurance premium is paid once, during escrow while other types of insurance are paid at regular intervals and are renewed.

The goal of a title company is to conduct a thorough search and evaluation of public records to prevent any future claims.  The experts are trained to identify the rights others may have to your property, such as recorded liens, legal actions, disputed interests, rights of way or other encumbrances on your title.  They should have extensive experience in local Boundary Lines and Easement locations which will enable them to forecast potential obstacles in a transaction. 

There are 2 different types of title companies.  Direct Writers issue their own policy and have reserves set aside to back the policies of title insurance they issue.  Title Agents operate like a direct writer, however they do not issue their own policy of title insurance but rather pay a fee to the direct writer for the right to issue a policy of title insurance.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Market Report For June 2010

Here is the real estate market report for El Cajon for the month of June.  Below you will find information for the 3 El Cajon zip codes.  This report includes information for single family homes only, condos are not included.

92019

There are 107 active listings ranging from $219,000 for 3 bedroom 2 bath, 1180 sqft to $2,595,000 for 4 bedroom 6 bath, 5890 sqft.

52 properties are pending, in escrow.

25 properties sold in June ranging from $185,000 for 2 bedroom 1 bath, 955 sqft to $778,000 for 4 bedroom 4 bath, 3702 sqft.  The average market time was 70 days.

92020

There are currently 97 active listings ranging from $159,000 for 2 bedroom 1 bath, 780 sqft to $999,900 for 4 bedroom 4 bath, 4700 sqft.

53 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

24 properties sold in June ranging from $230,000 for a 4 bedroom 2 bath, 1616 sqft to $612,000 for 4 bedroom 3 bath, 2946 sqft.  The average market time was 45 days.

92021

There are currently 104 active listings ranging from $189,000 for a 2 bedroom 2 bath, 1050 sqft to $1,795,000 for 3 bedroom 2 bath, 7500 sqft.

49 properties are currently pending, in escrow.

29 properties sold in June ranging from $190,000 for 2 bedroom 2 bath, 960 sqft to $980,000 for 4 bedroom 6 bath, 4389 sqft home.  Average market time was 64 days.

If you would like me to run the numbers for you in a different area, please feel free to give me a call.

Jamul Real Estate Report For June 2010

Happy July everyone!  I hope you had a fun and safe 4th of July.  Here are the real estate statistics for Jamul for the month of June.

There are currently 97 Active listings, ranging from $149,900 for a 2 bedroom 1 bath, 906 sqft, extreme fixer to $2,350,000 for a 6 bedroom, 5 bath, 6264 sqft home.

6 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

3 properties sold in June ranging from $360,000 for 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 2292 square foot home to $504,000 for a 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 3065 square foot home.  The average market time was 61 days.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Bank of America Loan Modification Program

I have been getting a lot of requests for this information so I thought I would share with it everyone.  Here is the link to Bank of America's website for Home Mortgage assistance.

Bank of America - Home Affordability Modification Program

If you do not qualify for a modification or you decide to sell your home through a short sale, please call me.  I would be happy to explain the process and get it started.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

San Diego 4th of July Fireworks 2010

Here are some of the places you can catch Fourth of July Fireworks this year.

SAN DIEGO

SeaWorld San Diego - Celebrate Independence Day on July 3rd, 4th & 5th starting at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Ocean Beach Pier – On July 4th, Fireworks begin at 9 p.m and will be synchronized to KYXY Radio's patriotic music.

Port of San Diego: at 9 p.m. - San Diego Bay is the place to be on Sunday, July 4, 2010. You can see these fireworks from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Spanish Landing, Embarcadero Marina Parks North and South, Cesar Chavez Park, Coronado Tidelands Park and the Imperial Beach Pier.

La Jolla Cove Fireworks - over La Jolla Cove at 9 p.m. on the 4th (858) 454-1444.

Mira Mesa Recreation Center/ Mira Mesa Community Park: July 4th, Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. and will be synchronized to KYXY Radio's patriotic music.

Rancho Bernardo Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. and will be synchronized to KYXY Radio's patriotic music.

NORTH COUNTY

Poway -The fireworks to begin at 9 p.m.

The San Diego County Fair - The fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

San Marcos at Bradley Park – Fireworks will begin at 9

Escondido Grape Day Park – Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. and will be synchronized to KYXY Radio's patriotic music.

Vista's Brengle Terrace Park 4th of July - Fireworks to begin at 9 p.m

EAST COUNTY

Lake Murray Fireworks - Fireworks to begin at 9:15 p.m.

Ramona Fireworks - Olive Peirce Middle School, Fireworks to begin at 9 pm. and will be synchronized to KYXY's radio's patriotic music.

El Cajon Fireworks : Kennedy Park, Fireworks to begin at 9 p.m. synchronized to KYXY Radio's patriotic music.

Santee Salutes July 4th: - Fireworks to begin at 9 p.m.

Spring Valley Swap Meet – Fireworks to begin at 9 p.m.

SOUTH BAY

National City: Kimball Park - Fireworks to begin at 9 p.m.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Alpine Home Just Listed



Check out this wonderful Alpine home for sale.  It features 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths.  Call me today for all the details and to schedule an appointment to see.

Coyote Attacks 12-year-old Girl in Spring Valley

June 28, 2010 (Spring Valley) - A coyote attacked a 12-year-old girl in Spring Valley around 9:30 p.m. tonight. According to Lt. Washington with the San Diego Sheriff, the animal pounced on the girl on Jamacha Road, approximately one block from Spring Valley Library and La Presa Middle School.
Fortunately the girl was not bitten, however parents should keep an eye on children and use caution if walking or jogging alone.
East County Magazine has also received reports of unusually aggressive attacks by coyotes on large dogs in Blossom Valley, as well as a report of a coyote chasing a 9-year-old on horseback near Lake Jennings.
Coyote attacks on humans, while not common, do occur with the majority of attacks in Southern California. Even adults have been subject to attack, including a Canadian singer who died after she was attacked by a pack of coyotes in a park. Fatalities are rare; in the U.S. only one death has ocurred from a coyote attack--a three-year-old child playing unattended in a Glendale yard.
For information on how to protect yourself, your children and your pets from coyote attacks, including details on where to find "coyote rollers" to keep coyotes from jumping into fenced yards, see our website at http://www.eastcountymagazine.org/

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Farmers' Markets - A Taste of Summer

Summer is here and you know what that means...yummy, fresh fruits and veggies.  Here are some San Diego area Farmer's Markets that you might want to check out.

Cardiff Seaside Market, 2087 San Elijo Ave, 7am-10pm daily, 760-767-5555

Carlsbad Farmers' Market, Roosevelt St. between Frand and Carlsbad Village, Wed & Sat, 1pm-5pm, 760-434-2553

Chula Vista Farmers' Market & Open Air Bazaar, Center St. & 3rd, Thurs, 3pm-6pm, 619-422-1982

Otay Ranch Farmers' Market, 2015 Birch Rd & East Lake Blvd, Tues, 4pm-7pm, 619-522-1982

City Heights Farmers' Market, Wightman St between Fairmont and 43rd, Sat, 9am-1pm, 760-751-4193

Clairemont Market and Bazaar, Schweitzer Elementary School, Sat, 3pm-6:30pm

Coronado Farmers' Market, Old Ferry Landing, 1st St and B Ave, Tues, 2:30-6pm, 760-741-3763

Del Mar Farmer's Market, El Camino del Mar & 10th, City Hall parking lot, Sat, 1pm-4pm, 760-727-1471

East Village Farmers' Market, 8th and Market, Sat, 8am-3pm, 619-232-1430

Horton Square Farmers' Market, Horton Square downtown, Thur, 11am-3pm, 760-741-3763

3rd Ave Farmers' Market and International Bazaar, 400 block of 3rd Ave, Sun, 9am-1pm, 619-279-0032

Encinitas Farmers' Market, Paul Ecke Elementary, Sun, 10am-2pm, 760-745-8877

Escondido Farmers' Market, Grand Ave between Juniper and Kalmia St, Tues, 3:30pm-7pm, 760-745-8877

Hillcrest Farmers' Market, 3960 Normal St, Sun, 9am-2pm, 619-237-1632

La Jolla Farmers' Market, La Jolla Elementary, Sun 9am-1pm, 858-454-1699

La Mesa Farmers' Market, La Mesa Village on Allison St, Fri, 3pm-6pm, 619-440-5027

Little Italy Mercato, Date st and India, Sat, 9-1:30pm, 619-233-3769

Mission Valley Farmers' Market, Westfield Mall East Parking lot, Fri, 3pm-7pm, 619-795-3363

North Park Farmers' Market, University and 32nd, Thurs, 3pm-sunset, 619-237-1632

Ocean Beach Farmers' Market, Newport Ave between Cable and Bacon, Wed, 4pm-8pm, 619-279-0032

Oceanside Farmers' Market, Pier View Way and Coast Hwy 101, Thurs, 9am-1pm, 619-440-5027

Pacific Beach Farmers' Market, Promenade Mall, Mission Blvd between Reed and Pacific Beach Blvd, Sat, 8am-noon, 760-741-3763

Point Loma Farmers' Market, Liberty Station, Sun, 9:30am-2:30pm, 619-795-3363

Poway Farmers' Market, Midland Rd and Temple St, Sat, 8am-11:30pm, 858-668-4576

Ramona Certified Farmers' Market, Collier Park, 626 E St, Sat, 8:30am-12:30pm, 760-788-1924

Rancho Bernardo Farmers' Market, Bernardo Winery, Fri, 9am-noon, 760-500-1709

Scripps Ranch Farmers' Market, Scripps Poway Pkwy and Spring Canyon Rd, Sat, 9am-1pm, 858-586-7933

Solana Beach Farmers' Market, South end of Cedros Ave, Sun, 1pm-5pm, 858-755-0444

Temecula Farmers' Market, Pronenade Mall, outside of JC Penney, Wed, 9am-1pm, 760-728-7343

Tierrasanta Farmers' Market, De Portola Middle School, Thurs, 3pm-7pm, 858-272-7054

UCSD Farmers' Market, UCSD Bookstore, Lyman Lane and Library Walk, Tues, 10am-2pm, 858-534-4248

Valley Center Farmers' Market, Valley Center Community Center, Thurs, 3pm-7pm, 760-751-4193

Vista Farmers' Market, County Courthouse, Sat, 8am-noon, 760-945-7425

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

More Sales, Higher Prices May Indicate Shift in California Housing Market

Wednesday, June 16th, 2010, 11:15 am
The housing market in California showed rising sales and prices in May, indicating a possible shift in local areas.
Home sales in Southern California rose in higher-priced areas, while sales are accelerating in San Francisco. The monthly rate of mortgage defaults and subsequent level of foreclosures also drew back last month.
As discounted bargains dried up in SoCal's lower-cost inland areas, sales migrated to higher-priced coastal neighborhoods over the past year, according to San Diego-based real estate information provider MDA DataQuick.

A total 22,270 new and resale houses and condos closed escrow in May in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, San Bernardino and Orange counties. It marked a 9.7% increase from the month before and a 7.2% increase from the same time a year earlier.

Tax incentives and low mortgage rates fed sales in mid- to high-end areas, where sellers have become more motivated over the last year, MDA said. The median sales price in SoCal jumped $20,000, or 7%, from April to $305,000. The median sales price, which topped $300,000 for the first time in 20 months, is now 22.5% higher than the same time last year.

"Last month's jump in the regional median sale price is the flipside of what we saw a year ago, when low-cost inland foreclosures dominated and sales in the costlier coastal towns struggled for a pulse," said MDA DataQuick president John Walsh. "Today the bargains on foreclosures are fewer and farther between, and the high-end is approaching a normal sales rate."

Walsh added: "The important thing to remember, though, is that what we saw in May was partly driven by government stimulus. In the second half of the year the market will have to stand on its own again, barring new forms of government involvement. Prices will be tested if there's any sudden move by lenders to release a flood of distressed properties."

North along the Californian coast, the San Francisco housing market is seeing a bit of its own revival. Home sales activity is accelerating, working inventory down from historic highs, according to the San Francisco Association of Realtors.

"As closed sales activity has rebounded, sellers have regained some leverage in negotiations," says Association president John Lee, in a statement. "Prices at the low-end of the market are stable while pricing volatility in higher-priced segments remains."

The median single-family home price rose slightly on a yearly basis to $752,500 in May. Despite the relatively flat appreciation, pricing conditions appear stable, according to the Rosen Consulting Group, a California-based real estate and regional economics research consulting firm.

"Rising housing affordability, driven by attractive pricing and low mortgage rates combined with a more optimistic view of the economy assisted by government incentives have brought buyers back to the market," the Rosen Consulting Group said in a statement.

"Recognizing the shifting market conditions, sellers who have been waiting for more favorable market conditions to place their homes on the market should begin to do so in coming months."

Writen by Diana Golobay.
http://www.housingwire.com/2010/06/16/more-sales-higher-prices-may-indicate-shift-in-california-housing-market

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

San Diego Fair Opens This Friday!

It's June in San Diego so you know what that means... The San Diego Fair!  Opening day is this Friday, June 11th.  It will run through July 5th and will be closed 3 Mondays (June 14h, 21st, and 28th.

Ticket prices are $13.00 for adults, $7.00 for 62 and older, $7.00 for ages 6-12, and 5 and youger are FREE.  Tickets can be purchased at the Fairgounds Box Office, located on Jimmy Durante Blvd or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/2010-San-Diego-County-Fair-Admission-tickets/artist/1417878

Keep in mind the Special Day pricing...

Tuesday June 15th fair admission is just $3.00, with special tickets available ONLY at Albertson's.
Every Tuesday (June 15th, 22nd, 29th)  All kids 12 and younger get free admission.

Don't forget the Concerts and Shows!

June 11th - Sammy Hagar and the Wabos, 7:30pm.,  $22-$166
June 12th - Paul Rodgers of Bad Company, 7:30pm. $22-$100
June 13th - Los Tigres del Norte, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 15th - Jeremy Camp with Steven Ybarra, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 16th, Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx, 7:30pm, $22-$100
June 17th, Donna Summer, 7:30pm, $22-$136
June 18th, KC and the Sunshine Band, 7:30pm, $22-$100
June 19th, Guy Fieri, 7:30pm, $27-$111
June 20th, La Arrolladora Banda El Limon, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 22nd, Mitchel Musso and Honor Society, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 23rd, Kenny Loggins, 7:30pm, $22-$100
June 24th, Switchfoot, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 25th, Julio Iglesias, 7:30pm, $22-$100
June 26th, Gospel Festival: Marvin Sapp with J Moss, 7:30. $22-$33
June 27th, Intocable with El Tono de Mexico, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 29th, Uncle Kracker, 7:30pm, $22-$33
June 30th, Lonestar, 7:30pm, $22-$33
July 1st, Lifehouse, 7:30pm, $22-$33
July 2nd, OneRepublic, 7:30pm, $22-$55
July 3rd, Jeff Dunham, 7:30pm, $22-$55
July 4th, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts with Fireworks, $22-$33
              7:30pm, Navy Band Southwest
              9:00pm, Fireworks
              9:30pm, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts

For more information on planning your trip to the fair and for any schedule changes, please check out the fair website.  Have fun and don't eat too much!   San Diego Fair

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Hazards of the Job

Today while I was showing property in La Mesa, I started to get this tickley feeling on the back of my arm.  I tried swiping it away a couple of times, figuring it was a cobweb.  Spider webs are one of the hazards of the job.  After afew wipes the feeling didn't go away and I started to have a creepy crawly feeling all over my body.  I looked down and my feet were covered with fleas.  I looked at the young woman I was showing the house to and her feet were covered as well.  We rushed outside and started to brush them off.  I initially didn't think is was too bad until I realized that my brown dress slacks were totally covered.  We would brush them off and they would jump back on.  After walking and brushing for quite some time we all felt it was safe to get in the car and leave.  Needless to say the buyers were not interested in the home, even though I told them the fleas were free.

Free Summer Family Film Festival at Regal and Edwards Cinemas : RandomSanDiego.com

Here is omething fun to do with the kiddo's this summer.

Free Summer Family Film Festival at Regal and Edwards Cinemas : RandomSanDiego.com

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Bank of America Mortgage Principal Reduction Plan

B of A Rolls Out Principal Reduction Plan
This morning executives at Bank of America rolled out their new "Principal Reduction Enhancement" program, which is an earned principal forgiveness plan for borrowers behind on their mortgages and whose loans are at least 20 percent underwater in value.

The plan is in conjunction with the government's Home Affordable Modification Program, but the government's principal reduction plan isn't in place yet.

What makes BofA's plan so proactive is that it employs, "a principal reduction as the first step toward reaching HAMP's affordable payment target of 31 percent of household income when modifying certain NHRP-eligible mortgages - ahead of lowering the interest rate and extending the term." Source: cnbc.com

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Stats - May 2010

Here are the real estate statistics for the 3 zip codes in El Cajon.  These stats are for single family detached homes only, it does not include condos. 

Wow, it is June1st and June Gloom is here. Well, it is here as far as weather is concerned but there is no gloom in the real estate statistics. Here is what happened in Jamul real estate for the month of May.

92019
There are currently 100 active listings. These are homes that are currently on the market. They range from $230,000 for a 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1064 square feet to $2,595,000 for 4 bedroom, 6 bath, 5890 square feet.
50 properties are pending, currently in escow
26 properties sold in May (closed escrow). They ranged from $167,000 for 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 890 square feet to $760,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3702 square feet.
The average days on market was 43, this includes the time waiting for the bank to approve short sales. One home sold in 6 days.


92020
There are currently 84 active listings. These are homes that are currently on the market. They range from $129,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 819 square feet to $999,000 for 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3494 square feet.

57 properties are pending, currently in escow
21 properties sold in May (closed escrow). They ranged from $130,000 for 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 480 square feet to $566,000 for 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3357 square feet.
The average days on market was 39, this includes the time waiting for the bank to approve short sales. One home sold in 2 days.



92021
There are currently 102 active listings. These are homes that are currently on the market. They range from $169,900 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 768 square feet to $1,795,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 7500 square feet.
61 properties are pending, currently in escow

31 properties sold in May (closed escrow). They ranged from $135,000 for 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1423 square feet to $805,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 4565 square feet.

The average days on market was 73, this includes the time waiting for the bank to approve short sales. One home sold in 5 days.

Jamul Real Estate - May 2010

Wow, it is June1st and June Gloom is here.  Well, it is here as far as weather is concerned but there is no gloom in the real estate statistics.  Here is what happened in Jamul real estate for the month of May.

There are currently 44 active listings in Jamul.  These are homes that are currently on the market.  They range from $159,900 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 906 square feet to $2,350,000 for 6 bedroom, 5 bath, 6264 square feet.

4 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

10 properties sold in May (closed escrow).  They ranged from $195,000 for 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1296 square feet to $1,200,000 for 4 bedroom, 5 bath, 7103 square feet.

The average days on market was 75, this includes the time waiting for the bank to approve short sales.  One home sold in 7 days.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

How to Remove Every Type of Carpet Stain | Carpeting | This Old House - 1

Here is some useful information. We have all had this happen.

How to Remove Every Type of Carpet Stain Carpeting This Old House - 1

Smart Driving Habits for Teens Forum

The 4th GUHSD Parent Forum on Smart Driving Habits for Teens to be held Wednesday, May 26, 2010 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Monte Vista High School Theater. This event is open to ALL.   Parents, students, community, and staff in the Grossmont Union High School District are invited to attend. Free childcare services available from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. Check-in and refreshments will be available from 6:00-6:30 p.m. Please RSVP by email to lsmith@guhsd.net or dbiasotti@guhsd.net or call (619) 644-8088. Space is limited, so call soon!

Sheriff's Searching for Man in Santee

May 13, 2010 (Santee) -- The Sheriff's ASTREA helicopter has been called in to help search for a man who threatened a Santee homeowner with a tire iron around 9:10 a.m. The man, who had a small white dog with him, was last seen in the Woodland Vista Park at Ironwood in Santee.
He is described as a tall, white man in his 30s and may be mentally ill. Authorities suspect he may be the same individual who ran naked through a nearby neighborhood recently, East County Magazine has learned.

Watch for updates as they become available at www.EastCountyMagazine.org .

Friday, May 7, 2010

4 Tips for Single, Female Homebuyers - FOXBusiness.com

4 Tips for Single, Female Homebuyers - FOXBusiness.com

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Condo in Mirasol

Wow, there is a new listing in the Mirsol condo complex on Fury Dr.  It is a 2 bedroom 2 bath and it is listed for $175,000!  I like that complex, it is close to all the Rancho San Diego stores but it sits up the hill on Fury so it seems less congested and you get a breeze!

Thursday, May 6, 2010

How to buy a foreclosure

How to buy a foreclosure

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Fire Officials Warn SD Residents To Prepare For Wildfires, Despite Recent Rainfall

By Susan Murphy

May 6, 2010

SAN DIEGO — As the temperature begins to rise in San Diego, so does the wildfire danger. After several years of drought, San Diego is soaking with relief, but fire officials are warning residents to prepare now because, once summer arrives, there will be more fuel to burn.

Maurice Luque, spokesman for the San Diego Fire Department, said the recent rainfall is good for moisturizing the vegetation, but it has also sprouted flammable grasses and weeds.
“When we don’t have rain, then there’s drought conditions and dryness. And as we’ve seen in the past, vegetation dries, it dies and becomes a fire hazard,” Luque explained.

Luque said there’s also high fire danger when we do have rain. “It causes grass to grow, vegetation to grow and becomes an additional fire hazard than what’s already there,” he said.

Luque said residents should prepare for wildfires now, before the Santa Ana winds return this summer and fall. He said homeowners should clear 100 feet of defensible space around their properties.

“There’s no amount of resources that are going to stop a fire like the Witch Fire of 2007 or the Cedar Fire of 2003. The best defense is prevention,” he said.

Rick Halsey, director of the California Chaparral Institute, said residents should think twice before clearing away native plants and shrubs when preparing for fire season. Halsey said when you pull out those native plants, it leaves more room for invasive and flammable weeds and grasses to sprout, “and that’s what creates timber box conditions,” warned Halsey.

“Once you improperly clear landscape, you cause non-native weeds to show up, which grow every year and they create an incredibly flammable fuel bed,” said Halsey. “So sometimes in the preparation to try to reduce fire risk, people actually increase it.”

Halsey says residents should prepare for wildfires by clearing away debris and furniture from their homes, including patio furniture, barbecues and wood piles.

For more information on wildfire preparedness, visit http://www.readyforwildfire.org/

Monday, May 3, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Stats April 2010

Here they are, the Real Estate statistics for the 3 El Cajon zip codes.  These stats are for April 2010 and include single family detached homes.

Zip Code 92019

There are currently 87 Active listings on the market:  ranging from $164,900 for 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 890sqft to $2.595,000 for 4 bedroom, 5 bath, 5890sqft.

59 properties are pending, (in escrow).

19 properties sold (closed escrow):  ranging from $220,000 for 3 bedroom, 1 bath 1008sqft to $747,000 for 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3359 sqft.


Zip Code 92020

There are currently 77 Active listings on the market:  ranging from $180,000 for 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1250 sqft to $1,099,999 for 4 bedroom, 5 bath, 3772 sqft.

59 properties are pending, (in escrow).

17 properties sold (closed escrow):  ranging from $145,500 for 3 bedroom, 1 bathm 1056 sqft to $700,000 for 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 3432 sqft.


Zip Code 92021

There are currently 102 Active listings on the market:  ranging from $186,900 for 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 768 sqft to $1,795,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 7500 sqft.

76 properties are pending, (in escrow).

32 properties sold (closed escrow): ranging from $190,000 for 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 958sqft to $685,000 for 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3958 sqft.

If you would like more information or are interested in selling your home and would like to know what similar properties are selling for, please feel free to give me a call.

Jamul Real Estate Stats April 2010

Here they are, the Jamul Real Estate statistics for April 2010...

There are currently 37 Active listings in Jamul, ranging frrom a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1196 sqft for $229,500 to a 6 bedroom, 5 bath, 6264 sqft for $2,350,000.

12 properties are pending (currently in escrow.)

14 properties SOLD (closed escrow) in April, ranging from $189,000 for 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 924 sqft to $699,000 for 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 4782 sqft.

There you have it.  If you would like more information or if you are considering selling your home, please feel free to give me a call.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Family offers $5,000 reward in hit-run death in Jamul

Family offers $5,000 reward in hit-run death


By Debbi Baker, UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER


Tuesday, April 27, 2010 at 11:41 a.m.


SAN DIEGO — The family of an Alpine man who was killed by a hit-and-run driver last week in Jamul offered a $5,000 reward Tuesday for information leading to an arrest.



Jonathan Michael Ulmer, 21, was struck on state Route 94 near Jefferson Road about 3 a.m. on April 18, the California Highway Patrol said.



He was found lying in a westbound lane by a passing motorist, the CHP said.



Ulmer graduated from Mountain Empire High School in 2006. His father, Chris Ulmer, said his son had been at a party and had gone for a walk prior to being struck.



Anyone with information is asked to call the CHP at (858) 637-3800.



Debbi Baker: (619) 293-1710; debbi.baker@uniontrib.com

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

What Does That Mean?

The internet has become THE place to start a search for a new home.  With IDX feeds, information that real estate agents enter is now blasted all over the internet within minutes.  Information that was once meant only for other agents is now available for all to see.  Have you ever wondered what all those abbreviations mean?  I get asked to decode it all the time so I thought I would share some with you.  If you have others you would like me to unravel or have some of your own to post, feel free...

COE= Close of Escrow
BTVABCOE=Buyer To Verify All Before Close Of Escrow
REO= Real Estate Owned=Bank Owned
L/A=List Agent=Seller's Agent
N/K=None Known
HOA=Home Owners Association
SS=Short Sale
SS-A=Short Sale Approved
BOM=Back On Market
Pls=Please
MLS= Multiple Listing Service
EMD=Earnest Money Deposit=Good Faith Deposit
POF=Proof Of Funds
CC=C Costs=Closing costs

FP=Frplc=Fplc=Fire Place
FDR=Formal Dining Room
Pvt=Private
Vws=Vu=Views
Pwdr rm=Powder Room=1/2 Bath=Toilet and Sink
Schls=Schl=Schools
Nr=Near
HW=HWF=Hardwood Floors
AC=A/C=Air Condintioning

Planting Perennials and Annuals That Last - Shelterpop

Planting Perennials and Annuals That Last - Shelterpop

CENTURY 21 Award

CENTURY 21 Award

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Tuesday, April 6, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Stats - March 2010

El Cajon: Zip code 92019

There are currently 93 Active Listings in El Cajon (92019) ranging from $199,999 for 3 bedroom/2 bath to $1,799,000 for 3 bedroom/4 bath.


46 Properties are pending (currently in escrow)
26 properties sold (closed escrow) ranging from $160,000 for 2 bedroom/1bath to $750,000 for 5 bedroom/3 bath.


El Cajon: Zip Code 92020
 
There are currently 81 Active Listings in El Cajon (92020) ranging from $210,000 for 3 bedroom/1 bath to $1,099,999 for 4 bedroom/5 bath.


46 Properties are pending (currently in escrow)

16 properties sold (closed escrow) ranging from $185,000 for 2 bedroom/1bath to $845,000 for 5 bedroom/5 bath.

 
El Cajon: Zip Code 92021
There are currently 95 Active Listings in El Cajon (92021) ranging from $149,900 for 2 bedroom/1 bath to $1,795,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath.

69 Properties are pending (currently in escrow)

19 properties sold (closed escrow) ranging from $143,000 for 3 bedroom/1bath to $574,200 for 5 bedroom/4 bath.

Jamul Housing Statistics - March 2010

There are currently 43 Active Listings in Jamul ranging from $205,000 for 2 bedroom/1 bath to $2,350,000 for 6 bedroom/5 bath.

22 Properties are pending (currently in escrow)

6 properties sold (closed escrow) ranging from $215,000 for 2 bedroom/2bath to $1,600,000 for 6 bedroom/7 bath.

Monday, April 5, 2010

What To Do After An Earthquake - From FEMA Website

What to Do After an Earthquake


•Expect aftershocks. These secondary shockwaves are usually less violent than the main quake but can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures and can occur in the first hours, days, weeks, or even months after the quake.
•Listen to a battery-operated radio or television. Listen for the latest emergency information.

•Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

•Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that can fall off shelves.

•Stay away from damaged areas. Stay away unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organizations. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

•Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in coastal areas. These are also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called "tidal waves"). When local authorities issue a tsunami warning, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on the way. Stay away from the beach.

•Help injured or trapped persons. Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance such as infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.

•Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals.

•Inspect the entire length of chimneys for damage. Unnoticed damage could lead to a fire.

•Inspect utilities.

◦Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor's home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.

◦Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.

◦Check for sewage and water lines damage. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 24-Feb-2010 21:52:07 EST

Friday, March 19, 2010

My Own House is in Escrow

I listed my own house on March 9th.  Being that it is in Jamul I expected for it to take a little time to sell, but to my surprise I started to recieve calls for showings immediately.  I received a good offer much quicker than I anticipated.  Today, 10 days later I am opening escrow!  See what can happen when you have a great agent like me!  Just teasing, kind of.  At least now I can focus on packing rather than showings!  Today is a good day.

Monday, March 1, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate Stats - Feb 2010

Here is what happened in the El Cajon real estate market in February 2010.  This is for detached homes only so it does not include condos.

92019
72 Active listings ranging from $261,000 for  4 bedroom/1 bath, 1364 sqft  to $1,999,000 for 3 bedroom/4 bath, 4702 sqft.

47 properties are pending/in escrow

16 properties sold/closed escrow ranging from $141,000 for 2 bedroom/1 bath, 1488 sqft to $715,000 for a 4 bedroom/4 bath, 3924 sqft home


92020
86 Active listings ranging from $210,000 for a 3 bedroom/1 bath, 1043 sqft to $1,099,999 for 4 bedroom/5 bath, 3772 sqft home

39 Properties are pending/in escrow

13 properties sold/closed escrow ranging from $191,000 for 3 bedroom/2 ath, 1100 sqft to $1,800,876 for 4 bedroom/5 bath, 5300 sqft.


92021
113 Active listings ranging from $85,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1200 sqft to $1,750,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, 7500 sqft home

61 properties are pending/currently in escrow

21 properties sold/closed escrow ranging from $196,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1062 sqft to $785,000 for 3 bedroom/4 bath, 3721 sqft.

Jamul Real Estate Stats - Feb 2010

Yes, it's that time again.  Here are the monthly real estate stats for Jamul in February.

There are currently 39 Active listings ranging from $150,000 for a 4 bedroom/2 bath manufactured home to $1,750,000 for a 3 bedroom/3 bath, 4360 sqft home

13 Homes are pending, currently in escrow.

4 Homes sold/closed escrow in February ranging from $251,500 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 984 sqft home to $349,000 for a 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 2247 sqft home.

For Sale: 3BR/3BA Single Family House in San Diego, CA, $390,000

For Sale: 3BR/3BA Single Family House in San Diego, CA, $390,000

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate, January 2010

Here are the El Cajon real estate stats for January 2010.  This is for single family homes.

Zip 92019
There are currently 69 Active Listings.  Ranging from:  $240,000 for 2 bedroom/1 bath, 1242 sqft to $1,999,000 for 3 bedroom/4 bath, 4702 sqft.

44 properties are currently pending, in escrow.

13 properties SOLD.  Ranging from $280,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1330sqft to $795,000 for 4 bedroom/4 bath, 3811sqft.


Zip 92020
There are currently 73 Active Listings.  Ranging from: $85,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, unknown sqare footage to $1,149,000 for 4 bedroom/5 bath, 3772 sqft.

38 properties are currently pending, in escrow.

17 properties SOLD. Ranging from:  $222,500 for 2 bedroom/1 bath, 884 sqft to $825,000 for 4 bedroom/5 bath, 4615 sqft.

Zip 92021
There are currently 105 Active listings.  Ranging from: $95,000 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1200 sqft to $1,795,000 for 3 bedroom/ 2 bath, 7500 sqft.

59 properties are currently pending, in escrow.

21 properties SOLD.  Ranging from:  $27,800 for 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1440 sqft to $480,000 for 3 bedroom/3 bath, 2873 sqft.

So there you have it.  If you would like more information, please feel free to give me a call.

Jamul Real Estate January 2010

Here are the real estate stats for Jamul, January 2010.

There are currently 32 Active listings on the market.  Ranging from $179,900 for a 2 bedroom/1 bath, 906 sqft, extreme fixer to $1,799,000 for 6 bedroom/7 bath, 8300 sqft home.

9 Properties are currently in escrow.

8 Homes SOLD in January.  Ranging from:  $315,000 for a 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1767 sqft home to $775,000 for a 5 bedroom/5 bath, 3500 sqft home.

Friday, January 8, 2010

El Cajon Real Estate - Dec 09

Happy New Year everyone.  I am running a little behind on posting the December sales stats for El Cajon.  Thank you for your patience.  Here they are...

92019

64  Active listings ranging from 2 bedroom/ 1 bath, 984 sqft, for $160,000 to 3 bedroom/4bath, 4702 sqft, for $1,999,000.
37 Pending listings currently in escrow
24 Homes Sold in December ranging from $190,000 for a 2 bedroom/1 bath, 740 sqft to $1,430,000 for a 3 bedroom/4 bath, 5364 sqft home. The average market time was 61 days.


92020

62 Active listings ranging from $175,000 for a 4 bedroom/2 bath, 1152 sqft to $1,149,999 for a 4 bedroom/5 bath, 3772 sqft home.
34 Pending properties are currently in escrow.
23 Homes Sold in December ranging from $110,000 for a 2 bedroom/1bath, 805 sqft home to $690,000 for a 4 bedroom/4 bath, 3600 sqft home.  The average market time was 71 days.


92021

102 Active listings ranging from $100,000 for a 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1200 sqft home to $1,500,000 for a 3 bedroom/2 bath, 2238 sqft home.
58 Pending properties are currently in escrow
25 Homes Sold in December ranging from $150,000 for a 3 bedroom/2 bath, 1062 sqft home to $744,900 for a 4 bedroom/5 bath, 3858 sqft home.  The average market time was 60 days.

Great Lemon Grove Property for Sale

Are you tired of looking at dirty, dated fixer homes? Here is your chance to buy a vacant lot in a great neighborhood and build your dream dream home for less. Beautiful manufactured homes can start as low as $35,000. Do the math, you can have a brand new home for less than an old beat up fixer! This level lot has beautiful mature trees and is located on a very quiet dead end street. The surrounding homes are part of a development and are subject to rules and regulations that keep the neighborhood neat and tidy. This property is not part of the development and not subject to the regulations so you get all the benefits of the rules without the restrictions. Per the seller, the city of Lemon Grove will allow a manufactured home on this lot. These homes are wonderful and can start as low as $35,000. There are already utilities in the street. This lot is very conveniently located to schoos, shopping, freeway and Berry park is just 3 min away. Don't settle for a home simply because it is in your price range. Think outside the box and get the home you really want.

Lemon Grove Property For Sale

Monday, January 4, 2010

Jamul Real Estate Market Watch - Dec. 09

I hope everyone had a safe and happy new year.  Here are the market statistics for Jamul for the month of December...

There are currently:

36 active listings, ranging from $179,000 for a 2 bedroom/1 bath fixer to $1,995,000 for a 6 bedroom/7 bath, 8300 square foot home.

12 properties are pending, currently in escrow.

7 properties sold in December 09: ranging from $96,000 for a 1 bedroom/1 bath to $650,000 for a 3 bedroom/3 bath, 3249 square foot home.  The average market time for the homes that sold was 51 days.

If you would like more information regarding any of these homes, homes listed for sale or to find out how much your home is worth, please feel free to give me a call.

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