Carlsbad Homes & Real Estate Tidbits >> The California Relocation Dude Talks

Carlsbad Homes for Sale - What Happened in the Carlsbad Real Estate Market in January 2012?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:10:30 -0500

Carlsbad Homes for Sale - What Happened in the Carlsbad Real Estate Market in January 2012?

The Carlsbad real estate market continues to shift, and the statistics for January show a number of changes from last month. These data do not include private sales or manufactured/mobile/multi-family housing; the numbers are derived from the MLS and are believed to be accurate but are not guaranteed.

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Media reports speak in general terms, so information may not represent the reality of our local Carlsbad real estate market. Having data, and knowledge, about the local market conditions benefits you as a buyer or seller so you can make informed purchase and sale decisions.

In January 2012 there were 102 Carlsbad homes sold (92008, 92009, 92010 and 92011), the same as in December. Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL HOMES	Detached	Attached
*Number*	102 (no change)	60 (down 13%)	42 (up 27%)
*Days on Market*	95	77	121
*Average Sales Price*	$485,597 (down 6%)	$601,362 (down 2%)	$320,218 (down 2%
*Average Sales$/List$*	97%	96%	92%

The number of Carlsbad home sales remained the same, but with fewer detached homes sold in January than in December, but the opposite for attached. Overall average sale prices declined modestly. There is still some negotiation going on and buyers, on average, are getting their homes for 4 - 8% off the asking price.

There were 118 properties (20% of the total) in Carlsbad at the end of January with the CONTINGENT status, 6 more than last month (i.e., homes with offers being reviewed for approval by short sale and REO lenders).

There were 597 Carlsbad Homes for sale at the end of January, the 7^th decline in inventor, by 4%, and the lowest inventory in over a year! This represents an inventory of 5.8 months for attached homes (down from 6.3 months last month) and 4.8 months for detached (up from 4.5 last month) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. The real estate market in Carlsbad continues to be competitive and is getting more so.

In January the number of new homes coming on the market increased, with 141 new listings (up 54%) hitting the market. This is likely due to the fact we are past the holidays and heading into the spring market. The number of homes going pending rose significantly, up 22% to 118, from December pendings. People were buying in January, and late December!

This overview of the Carlsbad real estate market is based on information provided by the MLS. More details can be provided with regard to current activity as well as within the specific zip codes of Carlsbad.

Watch for my 2011 overview of the Carlsbad real estate market!

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Carlsbad Homes for Sale – What Happened in the Carlsbad Real Estate Market in November 2011?

Carlsbad Homes for Sale | Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for October 2011

Carlsbad Homes for Sale | Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for September 2011

Carlsbad Homes for Sale: Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for August 2011

Carlsbad Homes for Sale: Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for July 2011

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad real estate and surrounding areas, the housing market in general (or locally), or otherwise assist you, friends or family in a home search or sale, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JeffDowlerSolutions@gmail.com

Serving Carlsbad (including Aviara, La Costa & Carlsbad Village), Encinitas (including Leucadia & Olivenhain), Cardiff, Solana Beach, Del Mar, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, San Marcos (including San Elijo Hills), Oceanside, Carmel Valley, Escondido, and San Diego

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San Marcos Homes for Sale - What Happened in the San Marcos Real Estate Market in January 2012?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:54:22 -0500

San Marcos Homes for Sale -

What Happened in the San Marcos Real Estate Market in January 2012?

The San Marcos real estate market continues to evolve, especially with the large number of distress sales. These data do not include any private sales nor manufactured housing; the numbers are derived from the MLS and are believed to be accurate but are not guaranteed.

San Elijo Hills – Award-Winning Master Planned Community in San Marcos

Lake San Marcos – Resort and Residential Community in San Marcos, CA

Media reports tend to speak in general terms, rather than local, so their information will not likely represent the reality of our local San Marcos real estate market. Having information about local market conditions benefits you as the buyer or seller when making decisions about buying and selling.

In January 2012 there were 75 homes sold in San Marcos’ 2 zip codes (92069 and 92078), down 35% from December. Here’s the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
# Sold	*75 (down 35%)*	*46 (down 48%)*	*29 (up 7%)*
Ave. $	*$330,520 (down 10%)*	*$399,177 (down 2%)*	*$221,616 (down 6%)*
DOM	89	82	99
List $/Sale $	*98%*	*99%*	*98%*

Sales volume decreased significantly for detached single family homes in San Marcos, but rose modestly for attached properties. Average sales prices shifted up modestly for detached homes but declined for attached. Buyers are not negotiating much on their purchases, getting only 1-2% off the asking price on average.

There were 143 San Marcos homes for sale at the end of January with a Contingent status, i.e., homes with offers awaiting approval from the short sale and REO lenders. These homes are included in the overall Active stats since they are still considered active until the approvals are obtained.

The San Marcos real estate market tightened further in January - at the end of January 2012 the San Marcos real estate market had 357 homes for sale (40% are contingent), 3% fewer than at the end of December, another decline although modest.

This represents an inventory of 3.5 months for attached homes (down from 3.7 months) and 4 months for detached (up from 3.9 months) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. The San Marcos real estate market remains highly competitive for buyers and is trending more toward a seller’s market overall, with the lowest absorption rates for the North San Diego County coastal communities!

And good news for sellers is that homes are not taking long to sell, on average about 3 months.

In January 2012 we saw 111 homes come on the market, 13% more than last month. The number of homes going pending in January (83) increased by 26% from last month’s pendings.

This overview of the San Marcos real estate market is based on information provided by the MLS for homes that went under contract in the last couple of months and closed in January. More details can be provided if needed with regard to current activity as well as within the specific zip codes of San Marcos (92078 and 92069).

Search for San Marcos Homes for Sale

Search for Lake San Marcos Homes for Sale

San Marcos Homes for Sale – What Happened in the San Marcos Real Estate Market in November 2011?

San Marcos Homes for Sale | San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for October 2011

San Marcos Homes for Sale | San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for September 2011

San Marcos Homes for Sale | San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for August 2011

San Marcos Homes for Sale | San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for July 2011

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Solana Beach Homes for Sale - What Happened in the Solana Beach Real Estate Market in January 2012?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:19 -0500

What Happened in the Solana Beach Real Estate Market in January 2012?

Solana Beach is an affluent coastal town south of Encinitas and Cardiff, and one of the more expensive coastal communities in the North San Diego County area.

READ MORE: Solana Beach Real Estate

As a buyer or seller in the Solana Beach real estate market, understanding recent trends and current market conditions is essential in order to make informed decisions; media reports focus on general market statistics and therefore will not provide you with an accurate picture of the Solana Beach real estate market conditions.

The following data are taken from the San Diego MLS for Solana Beach real estate (private sales are not included in these statistics, nor are multifamily properties or mobile/manufactured housing). The data are believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed.

In January 2012 there were 15 Solana Beach homes sold, a 25% increase over last month. Here’s the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
*# Sold*	15 (up 25%)	7 (no change)	8 (up 60%)
*Average $*	$733,326 (down 28%)	$985,000 (down 25%)	$513,112 (down 12%)
*Days on Market*	127	160	99
*Sale Price/List Price*	96%	95%	96%

Sales volume in the Solana Beach real estate market for January rose for attached homes but remained the same for detached. In contrast average sale prices declined across the board. We are still seeing negotiation in prices, on average from 4 – 5%. Given the small number of sales, one cannot draw any firm conclusions about pricing trends.

At the end of January 2012 there were 94 Solana Beach homes for sale, down 5% from December’s inventory, another decline, making the Solana Beach market more competitive for buyers. 15 of these homes are “contingent” (short sale or REO homes with offers being reviewed by lenders and considered active). This represents an inventory of 9.3 months for attached homes (down from 9.8 months last month) and 5.5 months for detached (down from 6 months in December) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months, resulting in a further tightening of the Solana Beach real estate market for buyers.

In January 18 homes came into the Solana Beach real estate market, 2 more than last month; 15 homes went pending in January 2012, in contrast to 13 last month.

This overview of the Solana Beach real estate market is based on information provided by the MLS for homes that went under contract in the last couple of months and closed in January. More details can be provided if needed with regard to current activity as well.

SEARCH FOR SOLANA BEACH HOMES FOR SALE

Solana Beach Homes for Sale – What Happened in the Solana Beach Real Estate Market in November 2011?

Solana Beach Homes for Sale | Solana Beach Real Estate Market Report for October 2011

Solana Beach Homes for Sale | Solana Beach Real Estate Market Report for September 2011

Solana Beach Homes for Sale | Solana Beach Real Estate Market Report for August 2011

Solana Beach Homes for Sale | Solana Beach Real Estate Market Report for July 2011

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Buying a Short Sale in 2012 – A Revisit to 2007

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 21:24:10 -0500

Buying a Short Sale in 2012 – A Revisit to 2007

I wrote Buying a Short Sale in late January 2007 to share my thoughts with consumers and encourage participation in an on-line dialog. I was 5 months into blogging.

Little did I know how many comments (well more than 400) this would inspire, and the extent to which consumers would share their stories, good and bad, and ask for advice on short sales. I’ve never had a post with this amount of buyer and seller participation, which is pretty cool.

This post has, for 5 years, continued to attract readers, with over 84,000 clicks to date.

“Buying a Short Sale” has also been popular with some AR and non-AR agents, too, a number of whom decided it was worth copying and using as their own. But that’s another topic.

I’ve thought, for some time, about updating this Buying a Short Sale post, given how the short sale landscape has changed…or has it??

And the challenge from AR to take a popular older post and rework it made this too good an incentive to pass up.

You can read the original “Buying a Short Sale” here…but I dare say the comments are much more compelling and interesting. You decide – I’d be curious what you think.

Short Sales

As a buyer watching the real estate market, you are undoubtedly aware there are many "short sale" properties on the market, in just about all areas and in all price ranges. Buyers often believe that these are the best deals, along with foreclosures [that hasn’t changed much, although I find more people know what these are about and many are kinda squirrelly about the potential wait].

Note – this is California. Things may differ in your state!

While you shouldn’t be scared off by short sale properties - they may turn out to be a great deal for you - there are a few things to be aware of you decide IF you want to pursue a short sale purchase:

A short sale MUST be approved by the lender (but there is NO guarantee)
The lender is looking for market value, too, and you cannot expect a short sale to be a fire sale (i.e., it may NOT be a great deal after all especially if there is a ton of work to be done)
If there is one than one lender on the property things become more complicate, and potentially time consuming
Lender will likely have a checklist of requirements and paperwork required for the short sale process
Lender will likely demand the sale be "as is"
Short sales take time (don’t be fooled by that name!) – it’s hard to know what time frame to expect. A few lenders these days can approve a short sale in a few weeks, or even less. Others have taken more than 6 months, or never approve them and the property is foreclosed.

If you are making an offer:

Make sure you make the offer contingent on the short sale being approved by the lender in writing and set a time frame for approval
A form (there is a new statutory Short Sale Addendum in California) is required to outline the short sale contingency terms and conditions
Your buyer agent should interview or “qualify” the listing agent to gain a perspective that they know what they are doing, or not. If they don’t this might be a transaction you might want to avoid.
In 2007 I said “There is a good chance there will be more than 1 offer.” Hah, I have yet to come across a listing where there was ONLY 1 offer, except 5 minutes after it came on the market, or when it’s a high-end property. It’s not unusual for there to be 5+ offers and I've heard of more than 15
It’s essential to conduct a home inspection even though the lender will probably require an "as is" sale - you still want to know what you are buying and what repairs need to be made so you can decide if you want to take them on

Be sure to discuss issues and questions with your agent before proceeding, preferably someone who has some experience with short sales.

You do NOT want to take on a short sale purchase without buyer representation by a qualified, knowledgeable licensed agent. There is too much at risk. I’ve never even heard of dual agency in a short sale.

The good news is that there is a ton of information here on AR, for agents and consumers alike, from loads of people who are highly experienced in short sales – Broker Bryant and Katerina and Nestor Gasset in Florida, Melissa Zavalla and Elizabeth Weintraub in California, the list goes on and on.

There’s even a Short Sales Superstars Group.

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Carlsbad Arts – The Cannon Art Gallery 2012 Invitational Art Exhibit in Carlsbad CA

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:03:20 -0500

Carlsbad Arts – The Cannon Art Gallery 2012 Invitational Art Exhibit in Carlsbad CA

The Cannon Art Gallery continues its reputation for exhibiting outstanding works of art at the newest exhibition, the winter 2012 Invitational show running from January 22 until March 11, 2012.

Carlsbad has garnered quite a reputation as an arts community and the Cannon Gallery, a City-owned gallery, is certainly a vital part of that tradition, with multiple shows and events related to those exhibits (e.g., family open studios, live performances) throughout the year.

The Cannon Art Gallery 2012 Invitational showcases a wide range of work by Robert Ecker, Becky Guttin, Roy Jenuine, Robert Nelson, and Sasha Koozel Reibstein. Artists were selected by gallery director/curator Karen McGuire from the 2011 Juried Biennial exhibition.

While wandering through the Cannon Gallery the other day I was struck by the diversity of these works of art, and the talent displayed in their execution. And Director Karen McGuire, as always, has such a talent for assembling the Gallery’s exhibits in a meaningful, cohesive manner that is pleasing to the eye and the emotions.

The Cannon Art Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday 11 – 5; Sunday 12 – 5; Closed on Monday

Cannon Art Gallery

1775 Dove Lane (adjacent to the Carlsbad Public Library)

Carlsbad, CA 92011

(760) 602-2021

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What I Know About SEO is YEO

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:26:14 -0500

What I Know About SEO is YEO

I still remember when I first heard the acronym, YEO. It was early 2007.

Things were buzzing about SEO, although not to the extent they are today. Now we see daily articles by the dozens about SEO techniques and their importance, receive multiple calls a week with guarantees to get us on the top of page 1 of Google, and get invites to classes and webinars specifically designed to optimize our sites and placement on the SERPs.

SEO is far more complicated than it was 4 or 5 years ago.

Oh, people knew what it was, wrote about it, shared their secrets.

But today we collectively know so much more about how the search engines work, what needs to be done to make the most of key search terms in our writing and on our websites, and how to get “found” on the Internet.

It’s gotten far more competitive, too, as many people have learned the secrets of SEO, and with far more websites than back in 2006 when I first started blogging (I would venture to guess millions) it can be much more difficult to end up where you want to be than 4 or 5 years ago. Indeed, at times it seems the primary emphasis is on optimizing your site, and using strategies designed to do so (remember those keywords?) and not doing those things that get you penalized by the god of search engines.

And perhaps that is really at the crux of this post, and YEO.

Jeff Turner, a friend of mine and many of you, and self-declared geek, coined the term, YEO, meaning “you engaging others” and wrote an outstanding post you simply must read – “It’s Not About SEO it’s About YEO.” Even if you read it before I suspect you have forgotten some of Jeff’s more salient points.

So go ahead and read it…then c’mon back.

I venture to say Jeff’s thoughts are far more poignant and meaningful today, amidst the emphasis on SEO and pervasive “getting on page 1 of Google mentality”, and the changing Internet habits of agents and consumers.

But to ignore the importance of engaging others in today’s Internet world is akin to the proverbial neighborhood fence.

Imagine living next to a neighbor for years, never having any contact because of the 8 foot fence between your yards, not knowing anything about their lives nor they about yours – the ups and downs of daily life, your beliefs and values, the joys and sorrows, and the friendship.

“You engaging others” is far more important than ever before, despite dramatic growth in social media and building on-line relationships.

The heart of why we are here, blogging our hearts out, IS to engage with others who will want to do business with us now or in the future.

Being found on Google is important, in fact essential, to reach today’s Internet consumer.

But if you aren’t engaging with others in ways that are important to them and which enable them to connect with you – on-line in your blogging, phone calls, email, texting, handwritten notes, face-to-face – SEO doesn’t mean a hill of beans.

Isn’t it about the people and your ability to connect,

and to entice them to connect with you?

There I said it.

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Introducing New ActiveRain Member Linda Holloway

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:21:55 -0500

Introducing New ActiveRain Member Linda Holloway

I wanted to take a moment to introduce Linda Holloway, a new AR member as of December 2011.

A main reason for talking about her here is that even though Linda is a new member, in contrast to so many who simply join, add a bit to their profile and then disappear, Linda has embraced AR wholeheartedly.

No doubt many of you have already had her commenting on your posts.

I was pretty impressed to see how she is participating, and in particular that she took on the 2012 BIG Jumpstart Blog Challenge that is wrapping up on February 7, 2012 – not an easy undertaking as a new blogger, and not easy even for those who are experienced IMO!

Not only that she became a Rainmaker early on, so she obviously realizes the value of AR for her business and developing relationships. And she already has several featured posts! Congratulations!

Linda is a real estate investment specialist in the Tampa Bay area and she’s done a great job of getting her profile started, unlike many newcomers who don’t seem to realize the value of a strong profile, or take a few minutes to develop it. My guess is she will be doing more with this profile, too!

So stop by to visit if you haven’t already, and help Linda feel welcome. My hunch is we are going to continue to hear a lot from her…and I look forward to it.

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The Cardiff Kook Run in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA On Superbowl Sunday February 5th!

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:28:22 -0500

The Cardiff Kook Run in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA On Superbowl Sunday February 5th!

The 1^st Annual Cardiff Kook Run will be held on Sunday February 5, 2012.

The 5K and 10K run is named after none other than the infamous surfing statue in Cardiff on the Coast Highway, the Cardiff Kook (named the “Magic Carpet Ride” by the sculptor).

The Kook, as it is affectionately called has created quite a stir over the years for the numerous and varied costumes it adorns at holidays and for special events. There is a Cardiff Kook website where you can enjoy the Kook at its best, including a ton of photos, and there is even now a Kook’s Café in Cardiff (formerly the Beach City Café)

The Cardiff Kook Run is sure to attract some great athletes but also should be quite a bit of fun, even if you are just watching. No doubt a bunch of runners will be in costume in honor of the Cardiff Kook. There is even a costume contest!

The 10K race begins at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas and heads down the coast through Encinitas, past the Cardiff Kook, to a turn-around at Cardiff State Beach and back. The 5K is a portion of this course.

You can still register on-line for the Cardiff Kook Run.

The Cardiff Kook Run begins at 8:30 am so you will finish in plenty of time to enjoy the Superbowl!

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ActiveRain Guidelines – Respect the Real Estate Industry

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:47:52 -0500

ActiveRain Guidelines – Respect the Real Estate Industry

Yes, “respect the real estate industry” is a guideline, the first in the list.

On the one hand it’s sad we even have to be reminded about respect (e.g., admiration, high opinion), or that it needs to be in the list of guidelines.

Given what AR is all about, though, it’s smart for a written reminder about why we are here, and the industry that binds us all as a community.

I think it’s important to have respect for the industry itself. And if you don’t respect it, there’s a serious problem. How can you effectively do your job and help those who come to you for assistance without respect, for the industry, for yourself, and for others with who you work.

No doubt there are those we come across in this business, not just here on AR, AND in real life, that we do not respect, or lose respect for, because of their conduct. Lying, deceit, cheating, and other bad behaviors by someone make it hard to command respect from others.

The AR guideline says:

ActiveRain is a place where real estate professionals can network with their peers and discuss industry insider topics. It is also a public forum where consumers can pull back the curtain and see what the real estate industry is really about.

Because of this level of transparency and openness, ActiveRain members must remain zealous in their quest to represent our industry in as true and professional of a light as possible, for both their fellow professionals, and the consumers who access this platform.

Unfortunately, one might argue many people do not respect the real estate industry itself these days, or perhaps it is the professionals who practice there.

While I would argue those are in the minority, there is no doubt that, like other professions, there are those who conduct themselves in ways that detract from the professionalism and ethics practiced by the bulk of individuals and this colors the perception of our business as a whole.

No doubt dramatic market shifts which have impacted people’s pockets, homeowners losing their homes due to short sales and foreclosures, and all the drama associated with the economy these last 6 years including fraud, unscrupulous business practices and much more have had some impact on how our industry is perceived.

The very visible nature of what we do on AR - the transparency with which we discuss the good, the bad and the ugly; the way we treat each other; our conduct and opinions; how we talk about clients and transactions - conveys a powerful message to the public about the real estate industry and its practitioners.

AR is not just about us, it’s about our livelihoods and our relationships. There is much we can do, as participants in this vast real estate network, to influence how the public views us as professionals and as business people, and how they perceive the real estate industry and the housing market.

We have a remarkable opportunity to make a difference, as long as we respect each other and our business, and the public can respect us.

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OMG They’re Taking the Toilet Seat!!

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:56:23 -0500

OMG They’re Taking the Toilet Seat!!

MLS listings sometimes list items sellers are not leaving with the home at closing.

This is useful, and essential, particularly if the non-conveying items might be important to the buyers, or when normally they would be items left behind as standard practice (e.g., fixtures).

Better to know up front what things are not going to remain.

The issue of what conveys and what does not can often result in disagreements between the parties if not clarified, in writing, in the contract.

I expect this is true to some extent in other state contracts, but paragraph 8 of the CA Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA) addresses specifically the issue of “items included in or excluded from the purchase price.”

Whether washers, dryers, refrigerators and other appliances stay or not can often result in a dispute, but it’s not uncommon for chandeliers, hardware, wall sconces, hot tubs, and other things to be listed as non-conveying items.

I’ve seen, on rarer occasions, specific plants, for example, noted as being exclusions.

I had to laugh when reading a recent $700,000 listing this morning while searching for a view home for some Carlsbad buyers. The confidential remarks noted, among several other things, that the TOTO washlet toilet seat was, sadly, going with the sellers. Guess it’s good to be put on notice. [In case you’re really interested, the link will let you read more about this invention. What will they think of next?]

While the non-conveying toilet seat struck me as funny, the issue IS an important one - if you want to keep it, better to have it in writing so there is no question from the buyers.

Despite being in the MLS it also pays to have iexclusions in writing in the actuial contract in case there are discepancies.

Anyhow, I thought this might prove to be a humorous way to generate some discussion about the issue of items that convey or not, issues that arise about what conveys and what does not, funny or maybe not-so-funny stories, and your own thoughts.

I wonder what kind of seat the sellers will leave in Toto’s place? Uh, let's hope they leave one!

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Let’s Talk Trash in Carlsbad – It’s Gonna Cost You More to Get Rid of It

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 23:01:36 -0500

Let’s Talk Trash in Carlsbad – It’s Gonna Cost You More to Get Rid of It

Happy Valentine’s Day! February 14^th is the day in Carlsbad for the public hearing to discuss the proposed solid waste rate increases over the next 5 years, proposed by the City of Carlsbad.

The new rates, if approved, will be effective on July 1 of each of the next 5 years, beginning July 1, 2012.

Residents should all have received the flyer describing the proposed changes but you can review it below and download the flyer if you like.

The City’s solid waste hauler, Waste Management, will have a new contract that includes several new or enhances services so additional funding is needed.

The following are the general improvements offered by Waste Management in the new contract resulting in the proposed higher fees:

New “green” trash trucks mean less pollution

Single stream recycling – everything in one bin

Free rolling carts for trash/recycling/yard waste

Curbside bulky item/e-waste collection

New rates will vary with the size of the bins selected, and rates are proposed to change for multi-family and commercial customers.

Carlsbad residents/property owners have the right to complete and sign a written protest of the proposed rate changes for the City Clerk on or before the close of the hearing on Valentine’s Day.

For more information, call (760) 602-4646 or visit the City of Carlsbad website.

Public Hearing

City of Carlsbad, Council Chambers

1200 Carlsbad Village Drive

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Tuesday Feb. 14 beginning at 6 pm

Carlsbad CA Proposed Solid Waste Rates 2012

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Lorraine and Loretta Kratz – Invitees Who Know the Value of ActiveRain

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 11:51:11 -0500

Lorraine and Loretta Kratz – Invitees Who Know the Value of ActiveRain

I’ve invited a number of people to join ActiveRain over the years, often as a result of them taking a class I was teaching, or at talks I have given at REBarCamps and real estate expos. Some have joined, but many have not. Too bad they haven’t realized the value. Or perhaps they went out and joined on their own. I should check.

It’s always been exciting to share the enthusiasm I have for blogging, and in particular for the AR community, and as it was for me years ago, AR remains wonderful training grounds for those just stepping into the blogging world.

As part of the 2012 BIG Jumpstart Blog Challenge, I wanted to briefly share my story about Lorraine and Loretta Kratz.

I taught a blogging class back in the summer of 2007 to an aspiring group of bloggers at a local real estate board in San Diego County. As part of my closing, I offered to send out invitations to join AR for those who were interested. Lorraine and Loretta Kratz, who are in the North County area like me, accepted my AR invitation and have continued to write regularly, amassing almost 400,000 points so far.

This sister team combines traditional real estate, Crescent Moon Realty in Vista, with the auction side of the real estate business, Land N Sea Auctions. Lorraine and Loretta have regularly contributed their expertise on the local real estate market, area happenings, communities, and much more.

Lorraine and Loretta clearly realized the value of blogging to their business over 4 years ago and no doubt continue to reap its benefits today. Stop by to say hi and comment on one of their posts.

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“Wow, Buying a New Home is a Lot of Give and Take”

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 22:48:52 -0500

“Wow, Buying a New Home is a Lot of Give and Take”

There’s something pretty profound in that statement, and no doubt something many buyers have discovered.

Some have not.

One of my clients just said this the other day. Thank goodness it was part of the reality.

As real estate professionals dealing with numerous people looking for a new home, whether their first or not, we know that there are always trade offs.

“There is no such thing as a perfect home.”

How many times have we quoted that to clients, or at least thought it?!

Every buyer starts out with a list, written or in their head, of the things they want in their home. It may be realistic, but so often it’s pie in the sky. In any case, it’s their reality and one has to deal with it.

But over time reality sets in and they find that there is a discrepancy between reality (that nasty budget) and what their dreams are. A choice must be made, like it or not.

Recognizing early on that there ARE tradeoffs, that buying a new home IS a lot of give and take, can save a lot of angst and frustration.

Or it can mean never finding what you want for you price you can afford, because you are not willing to give and take.

Does this mean you should not dream about that ome you would love to have?

No. But there comes a point when reality has to become part of your search, or you are likely doomed to fail.

It’s not really any different than shopping for a car, a computer system, jewelry, or most anything else. More often than not, there IS give and take.

The question is…can YOU recognize this, or are you going to ignore that life is, so often, being able to give and take?

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We’re a Diverse Group Here on ActiveRain – A Weltanschauung Commentary

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 19:15:24 -0500

We’re a Diverse Group Here on ActiveRain – A Weltanschauung Commentary

The ActiveRain community is diverse in many ways, not just by job, and becoming more so.

That’s a great thing, since it’s the reality of the real world, and there’s no reason why on-line shouldn’t mirror real world.

In reading through the Weltanschauung, for the second time, thanks to the 2012 BIG Jumpstart Blog Challenge, one of the particular components that struck me was the following:

Weltanschauung

“ActiveRain welcomes the active participation of all real estate professionals, irrespective of their affiliation with industry groups or trade associations.”

When I joined AR back in 2006 there were only about 6000 members, and the preponderance of them were real estate agents. While there was never any suggestion that it was limited to RE licensees, it took time for more people to join the diverse job categories that make up our business. As I recall there might have been 1 or 2 staging professionals, and maybe an inspector or two, among the mortgage officers and a few other non-real-estate-agent people.

What is truly wonderful is the growth and expansion of the ActiveRain membership in terms of the affiliated professions that exist in the RE, and who must collaborate in order for transactions to reach closing.

More importantly, the ActiveRain focus on attracting a diverse membership, apart from the fact that it mirrors reality, means abundant resources, and vast learning experiences from transacting real estate to on-line marketing to technology to daily life, coming from a broad range of professionals in different markets.

AR is a mighty impressive brain trust!

It also means tremendous relationship building, and fabulous opportunities for referrals and business development around the country and in Canada.

Joining this diversity but not aprticipating means missing out on everything that diversity has to offer. Your choise.

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Introducing Jolie Kirsten in Austin Texas – Admitting Your Mistakes is Something to be Admired

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:39:36 -0500

Introducing Jolie Kirsten in Austin Texas – Admitting Your Mistakes is Something to be Admired

I visited the Newbie Group this evening to see what was going on. I post some of my articles there occasionally to hopefully help and inspired some of the new bloggers.

It may have been fortuitous, but I decided to click on newbie Jolie Kirsten – and you should too.

Jolie’s most recent post, and there are only a few but she is well on her way, was about a faux pas she committed with some buyers recently.

Who hasn’t had one of those OMG moments – you forget your lockbox key, you get lost, or in Jolie’s case you show the wrong house that the buyers LOVE but which is out of their price range. Yikes!

I have tremendous admiration for her. She admitted what had happened, apologized despite being profusely embarrassed, and is continuing on with her buyers. Even better, she publicly admits to this mistake, which is my book puts her well ahead of many other agents who try to hide behind their excuses.

So stop by and comment – we have ALL been there is some way, shape or form – and let her know we are thinking of her and her honesty that will serve her well.

And we of course look forward to hearing more from her, and not just about the goofs but the wonderful work she is doing as an agent in Austin TX.

And unlike many new writers here, she took the time to work on her profile, with more to com. Bravo!!

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Del Mar Home Decorating and Remodeling Show 2012 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Starts Today, January 27

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:14:51 -0500

Del Mar Home Decorating and Remodeling Show 2012 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Starts Today

That’s right, today is the start of the annual Del Mar Home Decorating and Remodeling Show at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar.

The Del Mar Home Decorating and Remodeling Show 2012 runs through Sunday the 29^th and is open 10 – 6 today, 10 - 7 tomorrow, and from 10 until 5 on Sunday.

And it’s FREE!! Except you do have to pay for parking ($9) as is true of most events at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

The theme of the Del Mar Home Decorating and Remodeling Show this year is “green” so you can expect to find a host of businesses offering environmental products.

The largest home show in San Diego, this event will showcase over 450 vendors.

If you are thinking or remodeling, or sprucing up your home, then this home show is for you! As they say in their advertising...fall in love with your home again!

Del Mar Home Decorating and Remodeling Show

Del Mar Fairgrounds

2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard (at the Interstate 5 and Via de la Valle exit)

Del Mar, CA

And if you are thinking of buying a new Del Mar home to fix up, start your search below:

SEARCH FOR DEL MAR HOMES FOR SALE

SEARCH FOR DEL MAR BEACH COLONY HOMES FOR SALE

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A Winter Walk Through the Meditation Gardens in Encinitas CA

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:23:36 -0500

A Winter Walk Through the Meditation Gardens in Encinitas CA

I had a few minutes the other day while out previewing homes for several sets of relocating buyers and running errands and found myself in south Encinitas at the Self Realization Fellowship.

The Meditation Gardens are a wonderful place to take a few minutes to relax and step away from the world while strolling through these beautiful gardens that sit atop the ocean bluff. The peaks of the ocean area spectacular, as is the beauty within, and even in the dead of a Southern California winter, the Meditation Gardens offer incredible beauty and tranquility, as they are clearly intended to do.

There is even a guard who walks around to remind those who are a bit too talkative or loud and disturbing those who are there to enjoy the peace and quite, or meditate.

It's hard to believe, while there, that you are only steps away from bustling downtown Encinitas. Enjoy!!

The area adjacent to the Meditation Gardens is also a wonderful residential neighborhood with an eclectic mix of single family homes and condos, just steps away from downtown Encinitas shopping and dining, and the world famous Swami's surfing beach. Another Encinitas landmark, the Boathouses, are just down the street.

There is not a lot for sale in this immediate area typically But you can live on the bluff with fabulous ocean views just steps from Swamis and the Meditation Gardens for about $3.6 million in a gorgeous single story 4-bedroom home. Or live on the water (bluff top) about 3 blocks to the south for $7.9+ million. Or if your budget is a bit less, you can own an oceanfront 1-bedroom condo for $689,000.

Looking for Encinitas homes for sale on the water or near downtown Encinitas? Use the links below to find that perfect home.

SEARCH FOR ENCINITAS HOMES FOR SALE

SEARCH FOR WATERFRONT HOMES FOR SALE IN ENCINITAS

SEARCH FOR TOWNHOMES FOR SALE IN ENCINITAS

"A Winter Walk Through the Meditation Gardens in Encinitas CA"

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Encinitas Condos for Sale at West Hampton Cove in Encinitas CA

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:52:39 -0500

Encinitas Condos for Sale at West Hampton Cove in Encinitas CA

Encinitas condo buyers – want to be close to the beach (some might even consider it walking distance?), near downtown Encinitas shopping and dining, and even get an ocean view?

Well, you can, and for under $350,000 at West Hampton Cove in Encinitas.

It’s a little hard to believe there are Encinitas condos for sale at West Hampton Cove for under $350,000 (and even under $300K) anyhow, but having this sort of proximity is pretty special.

Of course at these prices there is a trade-off, as you might expect if you have been paying attention to pricing in Encinitas.

What Happened in the Encinitas Real Estate Market in December 2011

West Hampton Cove is located just east of the 5 freeway, on a high bluff which affords some residents with distant ocean views.

But the nearby freeway means cars and trucks, which means noise.

There are 4 West Hampton Cove condos for sale in Encinitas for $325K or less, 3 of which are short sales; 1 unit (in need of some fixing) is at the edge of the bluff with ocean (and freeway) views. Yep, it’s a trade off. But it might be worth it depending on your perspective and budget. HOA fees are approximately $275/month currently.

6 West Hampton Cove condos have sold in Encinitas in the last 6 months at an average price of approximately $275,000 (99% of list price).

SEARCH FOR WEST HAMPTON COVE CONDOS FOR SALE

SEARCH FOR ENCINITAS HOMES FOR SALE

SEARCH FOR WATERFRONT HOMES FOR SALE IN ENCINITAS

SEARCH FOR TOWNHOMES FOR SALE IN ENCINITAS

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Respect the Fair Housing Ethos – ActiveRain Guidelines

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:11:37 -0500

Respect the Fair Housing Ethos – ActiveRain Guidelines

One of the ActiveRain guidelines we seem to hear less about as opposed to others has to do with Fair Housing. I don’t think that’s because it is not considered important, but maybe talking about slander, flaming, plagiarism and other AR no-nos is more tantalizing than the Fair Housing laws.

It shouldn’t be.

The AR guideline, taken, in part, from the federal guidelines, states "It is illegal for anyone to Advertise or make any statement that indicates a limitation or preference based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or handicap. This prohibition against discriminatory advertising applies to single-family and owner-occupied housing that is otherwise exempt from the Fair Housing Act."

This of course is true not just in our blogging but also MLS listings, real estate advertising on and off-line, and in our practice as licensed real estate professionals and in representing clients, among other aspects of the real estate industry.

If you do a search on AR for “Fair Housing” you’ll actually come up with quite a list of articles addressing the issues, violations, testing, and much more. It makes for some informative reading. Take a look some time.

Sadly, Fair Housing regulations are in place because fair housing is NOT a given for all, and it is not unusual to see or hear about violations, or practices which may violate these laws. Take a look at the HUD website sometime to read about all the violations that are uncovered and under investigation, and where charges have been filed or dismissed. It can make for interesting reading and some good lessons.

Fair Housing testers are also out and about, and at a recent NAR meeting I attended in Washington, DC., it was clear HUD is stepping up efforts to curb violations and prosecute when appropriate. There are, not surprisingly, some strong feelings about how testing is being done, it’s effectiveness and appropriateness, and concerns about entrapment. But it IS happening, and it’s not going away, so it pays to be aware and careful. Check out what I learned about Fair Housing laws and testing.

I’m glad AR has a Fair Housing guideline as a reminder for us all. There are plenty of listings, discussions about transactions, and many other opportunities on where violations could potentially occur here. AR must police this, of course, but we should as well.

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4th Annual Brasil Jazz Festa to be held February 26, 2012 in Encinitas CA

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:07:38 -0500

4^th Annual Brasil Jazz Festa to be held February 26, 2012 in Encinitas CA

The 4^th Annual Brasil Jazz Festa 2012 will take place at the Encinitas public Library in Encinitas on Saturday February 26, 2012. Having been to all the prior concerts, I can tell you it’s great fun and the music is terrific.

Read More – Brasil Jazz Festa 2009 in Encinitas CA (check out the videos)

You can also learn more about the 4^th Annual Brazil Jazz Festa on their Facebook page.

The Brasil Jazz Festa 2012 will begin at 1:30 and last until approximately 4:15 pm.

The Festa will feature a number of San Diego notable jazz musicians/artists, including Allison Adams Tucker, the Danny Green Group, and the David Scheid Group featuring Mark Lamson.

Tickets are only $20 (and worth it) and can be reserved on-line. This is a small and intimate venue so you can really enjoy these musicians up close. And the views of the ocean in the distance aren’t too shabby.

Don’t miss the 4^th Annual Brasil Jazz Festa on February 26, 2012.

Encinitas Public Library

540 Cornish Drive

(a couple blocks east of downtown and Coast Road/Route 101)

Encinitas, CA

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Trust and Integrity

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 23:04:22 -0500

Trust and Integrity

Trust is a funny thing.

You know when you have it, but you also know when you’ve lost it.

Sometime it takes time for a feeling of trust to develop, while at other times it just comes with the territory and you don’t really question it, until something happens to make you a disbeliever.

The ability to trust begins at a very early age.

The infant learns that food is always forthcoming. A parent (or parents) provides comfort, shelter, warmth, clean clothes, security, and positive feelings of love and care. The infant learns over time that the parents(s) always come home after work, or an evening out. There is consistency from the parent(s) in many forms that engenders trust which can, and will, impact our ability to trust as we grow older.

Sadly, it is not always that way. In a previous life as a psychologist working with infants and toddlers I saw far too many instances where trust was destroyed – by drugs, alcohol abuse, and abandonment or loss of the parent(s).

One has to wonder how those youngsters grew up and were they able to trust again?

In our business trust is essential, although no doubt transactions can and do occur when trust does not. But trust goes along way toward making a better transaction for all concerned. It helps keep emotions in check when problems arise if you trust someone. And allowing them to help you solve the problems, or trusting them to do so.

We want, and expect, people to trust us. To trust that we will do as we say we will.

I think most people enter into a relationship with us wanting to trust us, in real estate and otherwise. For some it may take a while, but sometimes it develops quickly.

And it can be destroyed quickly as well.

Trust and integrity are intimately entwined.

I believe our integrity, “consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations, and outcomes,” truly allows us to trust, and to be trusted by others. And thus once trust is lost it is not easily regained, in real estate or the real world.

And if we cannot be consistent in our actions, values, methods, measures, principles and outcomes, can we really expect others to trust us?

* * * * *

This post is a submission to the ActiveRain / Adobe EchoSign Trust Contest. I could possibly win a prize. You can find out about the contest by clicking here

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The Art of Video Storytelling - 5 Tips

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 12:45:10 -0500

We all know video is playing a more significant role in marketing than ever before, and not just in real estate. Lots of agents have embraced video, some far better than others.

One might argue that any video is better than no video...it seems that those who post crappy MLS photos subscribe to that philosophy. While that may have been true when video was first catching on, I suspect that is far from true these days.

And even if there is a modicum of truth to this view, why be second rate or average?

Susan Harding shares some easy-to-implement and outstanding tips on improving your video and getting the most out of the time and effort you put in.

READ and DO! It's a winner.

Via Susan Harding (HomeStar Video Tours) Portland, Oregon 503-616-8973:

I've heard that all of the cool movers and shakers in real estate went to Real Estate Connect in New York (guess I'm not cool, I missed it.) But hey, I did follow it on my twitter stream, especially the video portion, and I noticed quite a few attendees were wondering "How do you tell a story with video?"

In my past life as a tv reporter, I was expected to produce compelling stories that had a total length of 90 seconds or less on a daily deadline, so I 'm sharing some tips from both my experience in tv news and in my new passion, video production for real estate and small businesses.

Get Straight to the Point

Don't waste my time. You only have seconds to get a viewer's attention.

Don't conclude that you have their attention just because they clicked on your video. And forget about gradually building up to what you want to say or what you want them to see. Use your best video first. Yes, in the first shot. If you're doing a video tour, make sure the first few seconds make the viewer want to see more. If it's an agent profile, welcome them with a smile, a super quick introduction and then get straight to your message. Don't wing it. Know what you're going to say, and practice!

Make it Short

In tv news, if you wanted to run a piece that was longer than 1:30, you needed to get special permission from the producer, and you had to make your case why it deserved ten more seconds. It can be argued that real estate is different - if someone is interested in a home, they want to see all the details, so they're willing to sit through a longer video. I've seen (and produced) video tours that run closer to 3:30, so while I think shorter is better, I know Realtors who swear by the longer tours. It depends on variables such as the square footage of the home and if you're marketing to out of town clients...they love the longer videos which will allow them to decide whether to travel a long distance to see it in person. But a short, well produced video is always better than one that slowly meanders along aimlessly, essentially begging the viewer to click stop.

Find the Emotion

Just as movies feature a central character who you care about, remember to give the audience a reason to care about your video. A neighborhood tour doesn't have to just show the features of the area - give us a soundbite with someone who lives there and loves it! If you're promoting your services on video, include a client testimonial from someone who loves your work. The person should be articulate, expressive, attractive and authentic. In a property tour, the "emotion" may be more subtle, but you can still find it with a warm, crackling fireplace, a cascading waterfall, or in the script itself, describing how the unique features of this home will meet the needs of the buyer.

Write to the Video

People remember more of what they see than what they hear and they're more likely to believe their eyes than their ears. So remember, in your video story, the video and pictures always come first in your script writing. Write to the video. Don't write what you want to say and then try to find the video or pictures to fit it. Look at your video, find your best shots and then write to the images.

End with a Call to Action

Reporters are often told to begin their video pieces with their best shot, and end it with their second best shot. That's what people remember. And if the middle isn't quite as compelling, well, that might be forgiven. So, make the ending count with a clear call to action, telling them in both the script and graphics, exactly how to contact you.

Storytelling is one of the oldest forms of art and although the technology may change, the need to tell our story stays the same.

So don't be afraid to jump in and happy videotelling!





You can also find me...



High Definition Real Estate Video Tours

and Photography throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington

Web Appeal is the New Curb Appeal

www.HomeStarVideoTours.com

(503) 616-8973

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Animate Your Relocating Buyers’ Interest with Animoto - Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:43:24 -0500

Animate Your Relocating Buyers’ Interest with Animoto

I specialize in relocation, as a niche market, in part because I enjoy it, but also because I’ve made 4 major moves (over 1000 miles) with kids, cars, cats, dogs, and 2 jobs, so I know how to do it well.

I’ve also worked on relocation from a corporate perspective – setting up relocation programs, relocating employees in and out, and have used a couple of corporate relocation programs through my wife’s former companies when we moved to and from Minnesota. I get it.

But the point of my thinking here is generating interest and enthusiasm with your buyers who are relocating to your area. And using Animoto to create that enthusiasm and interest.

I’ve shared a recent slide show about Cardiff-by-the-Sea that I created in Animoto below. There are several great uses of this “video”.

* * * * * * *

Share it via email or send the link to a buyer who is relocating to give them an overall visual perspective on the area. This will say far more than you can ever say in words in just 20 – 30 photos, and if they know little or nothing of the area, this will tell the story they want to hear. And it demonstrates your knowledge of the area.

If you don’t already have photos in your database for the community or neighborhood, spend 30 minutes one day taking a bunch of photos. I now have about 10,000 photos of various communities, neighborhoods, complexes and so much more that I can use for creating slide shows, and of course using in Localism posts.

But don’t just think of this Animoto slide show as unique to that buyer. Once you have the slide show (it acts sorta like a video but isn’t) you can use it for others who are relocating without making any changes. But if you want to add or delete some pics, or add more text, it’s simple to do in just a few minutes.

Post your slide shows on community pages on your Wordpress website. And be sure to put them on YouTube, with keyword descriptions and an appropriate website you want viewers to visit.

Use your community Animoto shows for your listings, and be sure to show a prospective seller the show that you will use to help market their home!

Use your slideshows in your posts about the larger community, and in any Localism posts that relate to the community that you create (a restaurant, things to do, market reports).

I expect you can think of some other uses, as can I. Animoto gives you the option to include a clickable URL link (button) at the end (for the Pro version) – I suggest you do so.

Have fun and be creative!

In case you are a reader who is interested in checking out the homes in this charming seaside community of Cardiff, you can do so using the link below.

SEARCH FOR HOMES FOR SALE IN CARDIFF BY THE SEA CALIFORNIA

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Enjoy the Panorama from the Panorama Condos in Lake San Marcos, San Marcos CA

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:07:05 -0500

Enjoy the Panorama from the Panorama Condos in Lake San Marcos, San Marcos CA

Lake San Marcos is a resort residential community with private human-made lake and 2 golf courses on the east side of San Marcos bordering Carlsbad. Lake San Marcos offers a range of living options including condos, single family detached homes and 55+ housing for seniors.

San Elijo Hills – Award-Winning Master Planned Community in San Marcos

Lake San Marcos – Resort and Residential Community in San Marcos, CA

A Video Tour Through the Lake San Marcos Community in San Marcos California 92078

Panorama Condos in Lake San Marcos, built in 1989-1990, offer a rather unique style of living in this community, being situated on the hills overlooking Lake San Marcos (the lake), and with spectacular panoramic views of San Marcos and the mountains to the east from many of the homes (approximately 160).

Panorama Condos are 2 and 3-bedroom with 2 baths ranging from 1022 SF to about 1339 SF (public record).

Panorama Condos offers a resident’s clubhouse, pool, spa and kitchen, but residents also can take advantage of the Lake San Marcos facilities including tennis and golf.

HOA fees are in the $300s, and units offer detached garage parking. Abundant shopping, dining and services are close by.

5 Panorama Condos sold in Lake San Marcos in 2011 at an average price of $271,800 at 94% of asking price, taking an average of 134 days to sell.

Search for San Marcos Homes for Sale

Search for Lake San Marcos Homes for Sale

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The Affordable Art Fair in Los Angeles, January 18 - 22, 2012

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:52:55 -0500

The Affordable Art Fair in Los Angeles, January 18 - 22, 2012

The Affordable Art Fair (I’ve never heard of an unaffordable one although some of the auctions you hear about certainly fit the bill) will be held in Los Angeles CA beginning TODAY, Wednesday January 18^th through Sunday the 22^nd.

I mention the Affordable Art Fair Los Angeles for all Southern California art lovers, and because I plan to be there Saturday.

In our past lives as art gallery owners back in the Boston area we had a good artist friend, Peter Arvidson, whose works we have collected but who also sold very well in our gallery. He shows quite successfully at the Rice Polak Gallery in Provincetown on Cape Cod MA (one of my favorite galleries there), and the gallery, and owner Marla Rice who we know, will be there.

Time for a visit and to shop.

The Affordable Art Fair Los Angeles will feature a wide range of contemporary art work, likely to suit many tastes, and with prices from $100 to $10,000 (and most under $1000), most art lover budgets will be happy.

Tickets for the Affordable Art Fair Los Angeles can be purchased on-line for $20 for 1-day general admission (with other prices for special ticketed events).

Affordable Art Fair Los Angeles

Event Deck at L.A. live

1005 West Chick Hearn Court (parking)

Los Angeles, CA

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