Broaden your Home Search - Avocado Village

When searching for a home, many buyers will limit their search to a specific zip code. You may have a specific area in mind and use the zip that covers most of that neighborhood. While this may be effective most of the time, sometimes this cannot benefit you. Here is an example. If you are looking for a home in Rancho San Diego you may be searching the 92019 zip code. But have you included the 91978 Spring Valley zip? This zip code covers the area by Steele Canyon high school and “Old Rancho”, up on the hill. Another zip code to search would be 91941. I know this is a La Mesa zip code but the area by Dixieline, the 24 hour gym and Vons, up on the hill is in the 91941 Zip code. If you are considering buying a condo in Rancho San Diego you should include these zip codes as well.


Avocado Village condo complex in La Mesa, is located just east of the Dixieline and Von’s shopping center at the end of the 94 and Via Mercado. This is a good complex to consider if you want to buy a home in Rancho San Diego. The complex consists of 1 and 2 bedroom units with 678-1068 square feet. Some units have mountain views and either attached or detached garages. The complex was built in 1985 and some units have been updated. When last checked the owner occupancy rate was 61%, which means it is eligible for FHA financing. (Please check current rate when you are ready to buy.) The current HOA fees are approximately $200-$230 per month. This fee covers common area maintenance, building exterior, sewer and trash. There is a pool and a spa.

The complex is stable. In the last 18 months 12 units have sold. There are currently 2 in escrow and there is only one active listing. It has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and is 1068 square feet. It is listed for $170,000. Call me if you would like more information about this condo or if you would like me to help you purchase a new home.

Things to do this Weekend in El Cajon

For those of you who live in La Mesa, Santee, El Cajon, Lemon Grove, Spring Valley or other areas of San Diego East County, here are some great events that are going on this weekend.  For those of you who are considering buying a home in Rancho San Diego or other nearby areas, take a look at some of the great events and get out there and enjoy!

Santee Family fest: Saturday Aug. 27, 11-3:00 at Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive, Santee. This event offers crafts for kids, carnival games, booths, inflatable jumping toys, laser tag, fitness challenges, swimming, a WNBA basketball clinic at 1 p.m. for children 7 to 13 (requires a waiver), and food. This event is Free. Information: (619) 254-4100 ext. 201 or Santee City page.


Sycuan Resort Anniversary party: Thursday Aug 25th, 5:30 to 8 p.m. on the lawn at Sycuan Resort, 3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon. This event will benefit the nonprofit, Stoneys Kids and feature hors d’oeuvres, dinner, raffle and live auction of an electric guitar signed by country singer Toby Keith. Cost is $25 per person. Information: (619) 204-8245.

Summer Movies in the Park: Friday August 26, 7:30 p.m. at the Lemon Grove Recreation Center, 3131 School Lane. Watch “Rio.” Free. Information: (619) 825-3810 or Lemon Grove City page.
Concerts on the Green: 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 26 at Prescott Promenade, 201 E. Main St., El Cajon. Aunt Kizzy’s Boys will perform blues music. Free. Information: (619) 401-8858.

Spring Valley Car show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27 at Faith Chapel, 9400 Campo Road, Spring Valley. Christian Rods & Customs Car Club. This annual event will feature classic cars, trophies, food, live music, raffles, vendors and entertainment. Admission is free. Information: (619) 286-5501 or Christian Rods and Customs.
Spring Valley Library Book sale: Friday, August 26, 1 to 4 p.m. at the Spring Valley Library, 836 Kempton St. The Friends of the Library will host a book sale featuring hardcovers, paperbacks, videos, magazines and other items. Information: (619) 463-3006.

Job fair: 9 a.m. to noon, Friday, Aug. 26 on the second floor of the student center at Cuyamaca College, 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway, El Cajon.  A number of employers, including those in insurance, communications, technology, retail, law enforcement and entertainment will have representatives. Information: (619) 448-5201 http://hunter.house.gov/.

“The Heart of Mt. Helix”: Saturday Aug. 27, 5:30 to 10 p.m., at the amphitheater on Mount Helix, 4901 Mount Helix Drive, La Mesa. This event features work by local performing and visual artists, food and live music. Tickets are $60 general admission. Information: (619) 741-4363 or Mt Helix Park.

Cool zone for seniors: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Heritage of the Americas Museum, 12110 Cuyamaca College Drive West, El Cajon. Free admission to senior citizens looking to cool off during the warm weather months. Information: (619) 670-5194 or Cuyamaca College.
Military Momma Mondays: 9 a.m. each Monday at La Mesita Park, 8855 Dallas St., La Mesa. This fitness class is for any active duty or dependent military mother. The classes involve walking and intervals of toning. Free. Information: (619) 436-7404 or Stroller Strides.

Cajon Classic Cruise: Every Wednesday through Oct. 26, 5 to 8 p.m. on East Main Street at Prescott Promenade in downtown El Cajon. The weekly car show features hundreds of classic, custom and hot rod cars and motorcycles, vendors, food, DJs, and live entertainment. Free. Information: (619) 401-8858 or Downtown El Cajon.

When you buy a home be prepared for an earthquake.

Yesterday's earthquake on the East Coast should serve as a reminder here in San Diego that you need to be prepared.  When you buy and move into your new home, is the perfect time to review how prepared you are.  You should go through all of your supplies and replenish as needed.  You will also need to find a new place to store your items.  You and your family should also go over an evacuation plan since you are now in a new space.

When you buy a home and move in, you need to make sure everyone knows how to locate...
1.  The fire extinguisher
2.  The gas shut off valve (wrench should be attached)
3.  The prearranged meeting spot

You should have the following supplies and know where they are.
1.  A fire Extinguisher
2.  Water for 2 weeks (1gallon per person, per day)
3.  Medications you and you family are on
4.  First aid kit and instructions
5.  Flashlights (with extra batteries and bulbs)
6.  Portable radio and batteries
7.  Canned and packaged ready to eat food.
8.  Manual can opener
9.  Waterproof plastic bags for waste disposal

What to do during an earthquake
1.  If you are inside, stay there.  Move away from windows, fireplaces, tall heavy furniture and get out of kitchen where things can fall on you.  Duck under a heavy table and hang on.
2.  If you are outside, move away from buildings, power lines, chimneys and snything that can fall on you.

You can find more information on earthquakes here.

VA Loan Changes

I need help getting the word out to military members who are considering buying a home. The VA has made some changes to the loan program that could save a VA buyer some money.


Effective for loans closed on or after October 1, 2011, the VA funding fee will decrease dramatically! The first time user of VA loans will see their upfront funding fee drop from 2.15% down to 1.40%. That is a savings of roughly $2000 on a $275,000 loan.


So please share this information with any military person you know of who is considering buying a home in the near future. Have them call me for more information.  Now is the time to take advantage of the historic low interest rates.  I am ready to help them with their homes for sale search.

Free Defensible Space Clearing for Seniors in Alpine

If you are a senior (62 or older) or disabled and own your home and have an annual income of $31,300 or less, Greater Alpine Fire Safe Council has a free program to create the 100 feet of defensible space required by fire agencies. Call Diane Francis at 619-445-4998 for application and information. You will be required to show proof of gross annual income. Space in this program is limited. Please share this information with others who may be eligible.

CONTACT:

Diane Francis
Greater Alpine Fire Safe Council Volunteer
619-445-4998
diane_francis@hotmail.com

Tax Tips for Home Sellers

As a real estate agent in Rancho San Diego I am often asked about the tax implications of selling a home.  I am not a tax consultant and do not feel comfortable offering advise in an area that I am not an expert. But I do want to help my clients make educated decisions when deciding to sell their home.

The IRS recently published their 10 Tax Tips for Individual Sellers.  This publication provides you with some great information.  If you are considering selling your home, check it out.  Then call me to arrange a time to discuss what I can do to assist you in getting your home sold and share with you what I will do to agressively market you home.

Lake Murray Terrace Condo

I just sold a condo in the Lake Murray Terrace complex.  This is condo complex of approximately 230 units.  These units are spacious and conveniently located near Grossmont College and Lake Murray.  The complex features multiple pools and a spa.  The unit I sold was 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 1041 square feet.  This complex is great for someone thinking of buying an investment property or for a college student, just starting out.  The units are easily rented and the prices are very reasonable. There are currently 3 other units available in the complex.  If you are interested in more information, please feel free to give me a call or visit my website at Lake Murray Real Estate.

Rancho San Diego - La Vida Real - Senior Living Community

I recently sold a home for a wonderful gentleman by the name of George.  George is in his late 80's and possible 90's.  He came to me when it was time for him to sell the 2500 + square foot family home and move himself and his ailing wife into a senior community.  As you can imagine this was a very difficult and emotional experience for George but he did it!

While I was working with George to sell his Mt Helix home, he and his wife moved to La Vida Real.  This is a senior living community  Rancho San Diego that offers independent living, assisted living, and Alzheimer/Dementia Care.  This move allowed George to share the responsibilty of caring for his wife.  The move to La Vida Real Senior Community also gave George the opportunity to let go of the family home slowing.  At first he would go to Mt Helix every day and wanted to be there for every showing.  Eventually he was able to let go and begin to distance himself from the property.  This gradual seperation was good for George.

When I first met him he was very gruff and one might say unreasonable but as time went by he realized he could trust me and that I had only his best interests in mind.  I did not pressure him or push him to do anything he was uncomfortable with.  I was patient, and in the end I think this made it much easier for him to let go of the family home.

It is easy to forget that real estate is a people business.  George had lived in this home for numerous years, raised his family here, and took pride in this home.  He was definately emotionally tied to it.  I am glad I took the time to be patient and not push him.  In the end I was greatly rewarded with a big hug and tender smile from George.  This is something I will cherish for a long time!

El Cajon Job Fair - August 2011

Here is a copy of a letter I recieved from Congressman Duncan Hunter regarding a Job Fair  he will be holding in El Cajon this month.  For some finding a new or better job can be the first step to buying a home.  Take a look.

Dear Kimberlee,

With one in ten San Diegans out of work, getting the economy back on track is one of my top priorities. So is putting San Diegans back to work.


That's why on August 26, 2011, from 9am to 12pm, I will be hosting my second job fair for 2011 at the Cuyamaca College Student Center in El Cajon. Whether you, or someone you know, are looking for work or interested in a career change, I hope you will stop by and speak with some of the participating businesses. In fact, companies from across the county are expected to attend this fair and have opportunities available in a variety of jobs sectors.

Attached is a copy of the flier, which contains additional details, including parking instructions. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact Andrea Jones in my El Cajon office at Andrea.Jones@mail.house.gov, or 619-448-5201.

I look forward to seeing you at this event. The event information is also available on my website, http://www.hunter.house.gov/, where you can also sign up to receive periodic updates on my efforts in Congress.

Sincerely,
Duncan Hunter
Member of Congress

Please visit my website at hunter.house.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter and receive electronic updates.

Here is the link to the Job Fair Flyer.

Alpine Real Estate - July 2011

Here is the monthly real estate market report for Alpine.

There are currently 80 single family homes for sale in Alpine, ranging from $159,900 for 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1092 sqft to $2,595,000 for 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3000 sqft.

22 properties are pending (in escrow).

15 properties SOLD (closed escrow), ranging from $175,000 for 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1082 sqft to $809,000 for 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 4305 sqft.  The average time on the market was 93 days.

If you would like more information about the active listings, feel free to search for Alpine homes for sale here. 

Jamul Real Estate Market - July 2011

It is time for my monthly real estate market report for Jamul.

There are currently 34 Active listings, ranging from $295,000 for 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 792 sqft to $1,399,000 for 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 6303 sqft.

12 property are pending (currently in escrow).

5 properties SOLD in July (closed escrow), ranging from $265,000 for 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1088 sqft to $650,000 for 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 2529 sqft.  The average time on the market was 44 days.

If you would like more information about the properties that are currently on the market, feel free to search for Jamul homes for sale here.

Should I Buy A Condo or Single Family Home

I have been considering buying a home for myself and I keep going back and forth between buying a condo or a detached single family home. I bet some of you have been faced with the same dilemma or maybe you are currently considering buying as well. Hopefully we will both find this information useful and be able to determine which is best for each of us.

Let’s start with the pluses of buying a condo in Rancho San Diego. The biggest attraction to a condo for me is that there is much less maintenance and work involved with owning one. I would not have to mow the lawn, weed gardens or sweep walkways. Because I would not be responsible for the landscaping, my water bill would also be lower. Then there is the exterior maintenance, many times the HOA is responsible for maintaining the roof, the stucco, the exterior wood of the building. If I buy a single family home and the roof starts to leak, it would be my responsibility to get it fixed, along with slab leaks, broken sewer lines and lots of other repairs. I also really enjoy a pool and with a condo I would not be responsible for cleaning and caring for it.

So, what are the negatives to buying a condo? Well, first and foremost there is no HOA fee. These fees in the Rancho San Diego and El Cajon area are about $200 - $350 per month. These fees can go up at anytime and special assessments can be added as needed. These fees are forever so even if I pay off the mortgage on a condo, I would still be responsible for a monthly payment. The second concern is that most condos are attached to another unit. I will have neighbors very, very close and depending on who owns or rents the attached unit, it could be horrible!

What are the pluses buying a single family home? Number one for me would be more privacy. There would be some space between me and my neighbors. I would have a driveway and parking would not be as much of a concern. The exterior would look the way I want it, with no limitations set by an HOA and the rules and regulations. I would not have to pay the monthly HOA fees.

Finally, what are the negatives of owning a single family home? The responsibility for the landscaping and all of the building maintenance would fall on me. Single family homes tend to be more expensive than a condo. In my price range I can afford a condo built after 1980 but the single family homes in my price range were built in the 50’s – 60’s and they tend to have much less closet space! Also, if I buy a single family home it will not have a pool. I do not want to have to be responsible for maintaining it and I would have to pay additional insurance.

So those are my thoughts on condos versus single family homes. What are your thoughts? Do you have anything to add?