Cristal Drake's Fullerton Real Estate & Life

Gorgeous Brea Home Just Listed! Open House Sat., April 27, 1:00 - 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 06:38:33 -0700

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Description


	The original owner of this stunning home has meticulously cared for and updated it regularly since purchasing it! Just some of the special features include a remodeled kitchen with granite counters, drawer pull outs and Jen-Airappliances, travertine flooring throughout the lower levels, plush carpetingupstairs, dual paned windows, plantation shutters, French doors, custom paint, scraped ceilings, a remodeled, spa like master bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, walk in closet with custom built-ins, a large and bright master bedroom with a balcony, inside laundry with sink, newer garage door, newer A/C and heat…the list goes on and on. The corner location includes a luscious green yard, beautiful and low maintenance back yard with brick, stone, beautiful trees and plants and even your own gazebo. The owners have spent years grooming this wonderful yard and now you can relax and enjoyall the tranquility and comfort of this lovely home. All this AND it is located in a wildly desirable neighborhood with lush trees, greenery, walking trails and all the great schoolsyou expect in the sought after city of Brea .

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	4
Year Built:	1984
Lot Size:	4356
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Brea
Square Footage:	2248
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty

Location


	1024 Shadow Canyon Rd. Brea CA 92821

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Single Level View Home For sale in Walnut CA. Open House Sat. Feb. 2!

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 22:13:05 -0800

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Description**OPEN HOUSE** Sat. Feb. 2, 2013 from 1:00 to 4:00Located in a sought after neighborhood in Walnut, CA , this single level view home is updated and ready to call home. Features include an updated kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops. Attached to the kitchen is a family room complete with views. Wood floors, new carpet and fresh paint throughout make this home move in ready. The low maintenance back yard includes a huge spa and fire pit to enjoy the view by. This gem is in the Oswalt Academy attendance area and is ready to move into and call home! Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1977
Lot Size:	8600
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Rowland
Square Footage:	1533
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential California Realty
MLS #:	pw13013369
Features:	View

Location19608 Vista Hermosa Walnut CA 91789

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vFlyer Id: 210971068

Raymond Hills Fullerton View Home For Sale. Open House September 29!

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 09:30:30 -0700

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	Fullerton View Home For Sale

DescriptionRaymond Hills VIEW home located on one of the most prestigious streets in Raymond Hills in Fullerton! This Spanish inspired home is move in ready and features a wall of windows to let in tons of natural light and enjoy your amazing view! The large and open living area includes an updated kitchen with granite counters and newer kitchen cabinets where you can enjoy that view while you cook or entertain. Some of the many additional features include: Newer windows throughout, recessed lighting, Spanish tile floors, updated bathrooms,views from almost every room, new garage door and an epoxy coated floor. That is all in just the main house! There is also a great space upstairs that features a three piece bath, a large closet and huge windows to let in more light and appreciate the even more spectacular view. It has a separate entrance and would make a great mother-in-law, guest unit, office...you name it! There are so many possibilities.Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	4
Year Built:	1955
Lot Size:	22786
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Beechwood School
Square Footage:	2148
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P836415
Features:	VIEW

Location1801 Skyline Drive Fullerton CA 92831

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vFlyer Id: 185707004

Downtown Fullerton Home For Sale! Open House Sat. July 14, 1:00 - 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 23:32:22 -0700

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DescriptionDowtown Fullerton living at it's best; close but not to close to everything! Located on a tree lined street in the sought after city of Fullerton; this home is just right. The house actually has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms including a beautiful master suite. Features include hardwood floors, newer windows and central air. This charmer just needs some finishing up and is sure to sell quickly! Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	1
Year Built:	1941
Lot Size:	6030
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Fullerton Joint Union
Square Footage:	1000
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P828463
Features:	New Windows and Central Air!

Location724 W. Amerige Fullerton CA 92832

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vFlyer Id: 170298021

Darling Fullerton Home For Sale- Open House Sun. May 20, 1:00 - 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Sat, 19 May 2012 14:31:35 -0700

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	Light and Bright Kitchen	New Windows & Plantatoin Shutters
Keep Cozy by the Custom Fireplace

DescriptionHere is your chance to own a darling home on a lovely tree lined street in the sought after city of Fullerton. This home features a raised foundation with hardwood floors and newer tile flooring in kitchen and bathroom. Freshly painted throughout with warm neutral colors and updates including; CENTRAL AIR and heating, upgraded electrical, plantation shutters, dual paned windows, a custom brick fireplace, and an above ground spa and gazebo to relax your cares away. This cream puff oozes vintage charm with modern conveniences; it’s the best of both worlds with a lovely manicured yard, gated front court yard, quaint porch and a producing avocado tree! It’s a regular sale and can be yours as soon as you are ready! When can you move in? Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	1
Year Built:	1949
Lot Size:	6030
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Sunny Hills High
Square Footage:	1053
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
Features:	New Windows & Plantation Shutters

Location1112 W. Amerige Fullerton CA 92833

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vFlyer Id: 158246001

Coyote Hills Fullerton Home For Sale! Open House Saturday, April 7th. Fullerton Real Estate

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 03:47:47 -0700

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Coyote Hills Home

DescriptionThis desirable Coyote Hills home is in a prime location! Towards the end of a cul-de-sac street that backs Coyote Hills, this peaceful and airy single level home is move in ready. Features include: New paint, new carpet, newer central Air conditioning (2009), updated kitchen complete with newer cabinets and stainless steel appliances (including refrigerator) and a completely remodeled bathroom. All this in a well maintained and sought after single level in one of the best locations in the neighborhood. Enjoy the serenity of the beautiful back yard complete with a majestic pine and the wide open space of Coyote Hills. Grab your mountain bike or go for a run on the loop that runs behind the home; no neighbors behind you! All this and it's a standard sale. Stop by and see this lovely home on Saturday, April 7th from 1:00 to 4:00.Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	4
Year Built:	1973
Subdivision:	Coyote Hills
Lot Size:	8973
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Sunny Hills High School
Square Footage:	1493
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P817647

Location1133 Avenida Del Corto Fullerton CA 92833

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vFlyer Id: 147207004

So Where Have All The Homes Gone? Fullerton Real Estate - A Serious Shortage!

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 11:22:43 -0800

Same ol' song and dance; where are all the Fullerton homes for sale? I am so tiered of asking the question of where are all the homes? Just when I thought it couldn't get worse; it did, much worse. We have been averaging about 400 - 500 homes for sale in Fullerton, give or take. I really started looking at the stats recently and noticed something, we are losing on average about 1.5 homes a day. As of today, February 28, 2012, we hve 221 homes on the market. On Sunday, February 26, we had 239. At the beginning of the monty, we had 279. We have lost about 40 this month. Why? What is happening. Inventory should be increasing right now, not decreasing. For the complete story, please see: http://cristaldrake.com/2012/02/where-have-all-the-good-homes-gone/

So You Want to Transfer to Another Fullerton School? This Might Be Your Chance - Jan. 3 to Jan. 20, 2012

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 02:30:57 -0800

One thing (of many) that makes Fullerton a great place to live is the open enrollment option within the district. However the window is short and it is open right now. From January 3, 2012 through January 20, 2012 the Fullerton Joint Union High School District will accept your application and you will be notified at the end of February of your student’s acceptance. For more information and the application, visit: http://www.fjuhsd.net/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=141381&type=d&pREC_ID=274910. Fullerton has such nice people, a great downtown, vintage homes, wonderful neighborhoods and great schools. The open enrollment program is an added bonus for Fullerton homeowners and residents who want to send their kids to a particular school that might not be within their residential boundaries. If you have questions on Fullerton home buying, Fullerton schools or any other information, I am happy to answer your questions!

Happy New Year! Good Bye 2011, Hello 2012! Fullerton Realtor 30 Day Challenge

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 02:29:46 -0800

Happy New Year! Wow, the time sure flew. As I look back, I am happy and also a little guilty in saying that 2011 was a good year for me. Guilty because I feel bad that so many friends were eager to see it over. I have so much to be thankful for and though there were some rough spots in 2011, especially for some dear friends, I really can't complain. I helped so many folks realize the dream of home ownership, while helping others sell homes to move on to the next chapter of their lives. Late 2009, I brought on an agent on to my team and am happy to say that between the two of us, we closed a lot of Fullerton homes and sold a lot of real estate in the North Orange County area. It was my best year yet and I have so many people to thank from my amazing family, my buyer's agent Kelly, my amazing lenders and vendors; it really does take a village! These are challenging times and selling and actually bringing a home to closing is no easy task so THANK YOU to all that helped! So for 2012? Well, I am not one for resolutions, but I have decided to take on a 30 day challenge. Today is day two and I am off to a great start. Here is what I am going to do for the next 30 days: 1. Wake up at 6:00 am (weekends too).2. Walk my dog early every day so that we both get exercise OR do some other exercise – every day.3. Write an article/blog or something to post online – every day for 30 days (I have two blogs so I will alternate between the two) My other blog is www.cristaldrake.com if you would like to read yesterday's article, which elaborates a bit more. It is nothing crazy. I am in a pivotal point in my business and in order to maintain my sanity and sell as many homes or more than last year, it is going to take some organization. I figure that I can do anything for 30 days. I would love to hear what YOU are up to for the new year. It is brand new and so full of possibilities! If your new year includes anything help with such as being a support for your goal or answering any questions about buying or selling a home, I would be honored to help. Happy New Year!

Is Your Home is Worth Less Than You Owe? You Might Still Be Able to Refinance!

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:08:49 -0700

Feeling frustrated because your Fullerton home is upside down and you can’t take advantage of these record low interest rates but your watching everyone one else around you catch a break? There is a chance that you CAN take advantage; read on! HARP Refinance Program ExpandedBorrowers who are current on their home loans may be able to refinance for lower interest rates, even if they are seriously upside down. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced today that it will broaden the scope of the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) by removing the current 125 percent loan-to-value cap for fixed-rate mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Other program enhancements include, among other things, reducing certain fees, eliminating the need for a new property appraisal if the FHFA has a reliable automated valuation model (AVM) estimate, and extending HARP until the end of 2013. New federal guidelines for the HARP changes should be released to mortgage lenders and servicers by November 15. The basic eligibility requirements for an enhanced HARP loan are as follows: Existing mortgage loan must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. To check whether you havea Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan, go to http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/get-assistance/loan-look-up/Pages/default.aspx.Existing mortgage loan must have been sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac before June 1, 2009.Existing mortgage loan cannot have been refinanced under HARP previously (except for Fannie Mae loans refinanced between March and May 2009).Current loan-to-value (LTV) ratio must be more than 80%.Existing mortgage loan must be current, with no late payments in the past six months, and no more than one late payment in the past 12 months.More information is available from FHFA at http://www.fhfa.gov/webfiles/22721/HARP_release_102411_Final.pdf. As a local Fullerton real estate professional, I have some trusted lenders that are very familiar with this program and helping folks refinance. Contact me and I will happily point you in the right direction! Even if you don't qualify for a refinance, there are still other options. Most importantly, you are not alone.

Fullerton OPEN HOUSE - Custom Single Level Executive Home in Raymond Hills! Open Aug. 27 and 28

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 07:53:19 -0700

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DescriptionCustom built, single level executive home located on prestigious Skyline Drive! No detail was spared when building this beautifully appointed English style home. Just some of the features include: Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, pantry, commercial Traulsen 48' wide refrigerator/freezer, new dishwasher, water heater, HVAC units (two!)The family room features a custom sound system and home theater system, large pass through fireplace, bar with granite top and Glastender professional beer tap and wine storage refrigerator and a beautiful view through the floor to ceiling windows. Hand carved mahogany double entry doors, soaring 25' ceilings with skylights in entry and family room; custom stained and leaded glass windows. You will also find storage galore, including; a huge finished attic with shelving & Skylights. The exterior features mature, meticulous and LOW MAINTENANCE landscape with automatic watering system, custom island with granite and built in BBQ, smaller, low maintenance back yard with redwood deck overlooking a serene canyon view. ***OPEN HOUSE Saturday and Sunday, August 27th and 28th, 2011 from 1:00 to 4:00***Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	4
Parking Spaces:	3
Year Built:	1992
Subdivision:	Raymond HIlls
Lot Size:	10,500
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Fullerton
Square Footage:	3290
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P781940

Location1816 Skyline Drive Fullerton CA 92831

vFlyer Id: 37552000

Back From Brazil with a New Housing Perspective (Among Other Things).

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 03:44:38 -0700

I am sorry that I have been out of the loop here for a while but I was away! I hope you don’t mind that this article will be a little more personal than usual but I just had to share that I was fortunate enough to travel to Brazil! This wasn’t just a vacation but a home build through Habitat for Humanity and we built three little homes! This was such an amazing, emotional and rewarding experience. For me, it just brought to light what a privilege home ownership (among other things) really is. Somewhere along the way I think we sort of forgot about this. Look at our parents and grandparents. They got married, saved up and bought a home. There didn’t have fancy loans, their rates were high and they wondered how they would ever pay off a $22,000 mortgage! But they did it. And hopefully today they have a home that is paid in full and an amazing investment on their hands. I know this market feels scary and uneasy. Stocks all over the board people are worried. Then you look at the interest rates; we have never seen them so low! IT is a roller coaster to say the least. Real Estate is a long term investment. You need a place to live anyway, right? You can pay rent for 30 years and have nothing to show, but if you purchase a house and can keep making that mortgage then in 30 years, it’s yours. Through all the ups and downs your home probably will have substantially increased in value. Somehow we started only looking at short tearm appreciation and loss. I wish I could find the chart that shows real estate over the last 10 years. WE ARE STILL UP (at least Fullerton Real Estate is and so is Southern California for that matter) considerably. This is America! Sure the market is rough but if you want to see a really bad housing market, there are many places in this world where it is so much worse. I am feeling pretty grateful and I appreciate the opportunity to share with you! If you are interested in hearing more about Habitat for Humanity’s Global Village the local real estate market, I would love to share! I hope you enjoy a few photos from my trip!

Just Like New Home Just Listed Near Downtown Fullerton! OPEN HOUSE - Saturday, June 11th, 1:00 to 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:11:18 -0700

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432 N. Lee, Fullerton	Gleaming Hardwood Floors	Brand New Family Room
Spacious Family Room	Room to Roam Outside	Completely updated bathrooms

DescriptionSTANDARD SALE! Completely remodeled, turnkey home in sought after area near Downtown Fullerton. Property has new kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counters and gleaming hardwood flooring. The bathrooms have both been remodeled as well with new cabinets, granite counters, and ceramic tile flooring. The house is amazing from top to bottom. Must see! Features include: designer paint, new carpet, new hardware throughout and more. Professional landscaping with automatic sprinkler system. Extra large lot with mature citrus trees in the park like backyard. Just bring your furniture and move on in!! Stop by and see this beauty for yourself on Saturday, June 11th from 1:00 to 4:00!Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1951
Lot Size:	8000
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Fullerton
Square Footage:	1575
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty

Location432 N. Lee Ave. Fullerton CA 92833

vFlyer Id: 49300001

Custom Skyline Dr. Fullerton Home for Sale Open House Sat. May 21

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Wed, 18 May 2011 08:43:06 -0700

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DescriptionCustom built, single level home located on prestigious Skyline Drive! No detail was spared when building this beautifully appointed English style home. Just some of the features include: Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, pantry, commercial Traulsen 48' wide refrigerator/freezer, new dishwasher, water heater, HVAC units (two!)The family room features a custom sound system and home theater system, large pass through fireplace, bar with granite top and Glastender professional beer tap and wine storage refrigerator and a beautiful view through the floor to ceiling windows. Hand carved mahogany double entry doors, soaring 25' ceilings with skylights in entry and family room; custom stained and leaded glass windows. You will also find storage galore, including; a huge finished attic with shelving & Skylights. The exterior features mature and meticulous landscape with automatic watering system, custom island with granite and built in BBQ, redwood deck overlooking a serene canyon view. ***OPEN HOUSE Saturday, May 21, 2011 from 1:00 to 4:00***Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	4
Parking Spaces:	3
Year Built:	1992
Subdivision:	Raymond HIlls
Lot Size:	10,500
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Fullerton
Square Footage:	3400
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P781940

Location1816 Skyline Drive Fullerton CA 92831

vFlyer Id: 37552000

Please Be Gentle; It's My First Time! Fullerton Real Estate

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Tue, 17 May 2011 05:11:38 -0700

First timers - I love them! They are excited and starry eyed....about buying their first home. I work with so many first time buyers and last week when I started receiving more email inquiries than usual, I figured it would be a good idea to put a little "Where to Start" article together. The first place you should start is by talking to a lender (you thought I was going to say Realtor® didn't you?). You really need to find out what your buying power is. Most first timers are a little shocked when they look at all the numbers, the down payment, the monthly payment, mortgage insurance, taxes, etc... There are also some other important numbers, your fico scores (credit grade) and income. It could be that you might have a late payment showing up or might need to save up a little more money before you start looking and a good lender will help you figure all this out. Concurrent to shopping for a mortgage professional, you should also be searching for a real estate agent. Your Realtor® should be: A full time, hard-working professional Fully aware of market local conditions and available financingAssociated with a reputable real estate firm Willing to tell you the truth and not whatever it takes to sell the home.Associated with a strong team of lenders, inspection companies and other real estate service professionals. So many first timers are looking for that sweet little Downtown Fullerton starter home or a house in a Fullerton neighborhood with great schools. Unfortunately for buyers, living in Fullerton does come at a premium so knowing what you can afford and finding a local, assertive Realtor® that can help you navigate through the process will make all the difference in the world. Buying a house is a scary and exciting process. It is most likely the largest investment of your life so who you choose to help you along the way is critical. So where do you find the all knowing and oh so important real estate agent and lender?1. The number one way is by referral! Talk to the folks that you trust to see who they trust. 2. Choose a local expert - if they are the local expert with a good reputation then they know about the homes that are coming on the market before they hit the market! This is huge when we are seeing multiple offers in the starter price range in nice Fullerton neighborhoods.3. Yelp Them!For more information on the buying process, a lender referral or a free "Home Buyer's Guide", please contact me. I am happy to help. For more information on how to research your potential real estate agent, please go to: http://cristaldrake.com/?p=262

I LOVE Selling Vintage Homes in Downtown Fullerton! Here's Another...OPEN HOUSE Saturday, March 26, 1:00 to 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:32:46 -0700

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DescriptionThere is nothing to do except move into the sweetest home on one of the cutest streets in all of Fullerton! This vintage charmer has been completely updated from top to bottom and is just a few blocks from downtown Fullerton. Features include; original gleaming hardwood floors with wide baseboards, new double paned windows, crown molding, newer fencing and gates, forced heat, newer roof and newer central air unit (yes, I said central air!). The updated kitchen includes; lovely white cabinets with black granite counters, stone tile floors, bay windows and stainless steel appliances - including a dishwasher! The master has French doors leading to an amazing backyard with a covered patio, brick and stone work (in the front too) and even two ceiling fans to keep you cool on those summer nights. There is also a fountain, huge grass area, two giant producing avocado trees, orange trees & a two car detached garage with a BONUS ROOM that you could use as an art studio, work shop or office.Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	1
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1942
Lot Size:	7500
Garage Size:	Two Car
School District:	Fullerton
Square Footage:	978
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential California Realty
MLS #:	P774653

Location741 W. Amerige Ave. Fullerton CA 92832

vFlyer Id: 6641022

Fullerton Real Estate - Dear Fullerton, I Owe You an Apology...

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:20:34 -0700

Dear Fullerton, I owe you an apology. I should have warned you. I should have been running around with my hair on fire. I should have been shouting from the rooftops. But I was afraid you would think I was just another real estate agent trying to make a sale. After all, it is my solemn obligation, my duty to you and to our community to sound the alarm when things happen that will affect your well being. In this case, my neglect may have cost you dearly. Let me explain... If you would have bought a house in November with a loan of $400,000, your payment would be $1,949.07 per mo. That's a savings of $198.22 PER MONTH based on the same loan with today's interest rates. If you had sold your home in November, you would not be up against the wave of inventory and shadow inventory that the banks and experts are predicting will hit the market and further drive down prices. You could have scored the interest rate of the CENTURY if you had purchased! For years, you would be able to hold friends spellbound at parties as you tell of your unbelievable interest rate. If you've ever wished you could be one of those lucky people who happen to catch a passing opportunity, or win the lottery, or even if you are just curious... contact a Realtor®. Of course, I'm available! Don't make me set my hair on fire!!

Mold Can Be One Ugly Four Letter Word in Real Estate!

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 15:44:08 -0700

Growing up, I spent a good part of my childhood in Oregon. In the winter it was cold and wet to say the least. I remember the bedroom of our old house was always freezing and damp and my sister and I got out the bleach to clean the mold off the walls. Sure, it was a little gross and a pain, but it is just how it was. As soon as the weather warmed up, the mold went away. Now that I am in real estate sales; it's a whole different story. M-O-L-D....It is a four letter word and will send buyers, sellers and agents reeling. Where is it coming from? Will we get sick? How deep is the issue? Will the hole house have to be torn down to the studs? People go into panic mode. Sometimes it can be a big deal and sometimes not. I mean whole businesses have been built around it. Detecting, testing, remediating, tearing out, repairing....and so on. The costs can really add up. So, was I just living in a seriously unhealthy situation? I mean, it was the 70′s and we drove around with no seat belts on, folks smoking everywhere and we got our backsides spanked when we got out of line. Well maybe that was only in my house but I survived. This is all just food for thought. Speaking of, blue cheese - it's moldy right? I guess some mold can actually be good then...for the folks that like that sort of thing.

Fullerton and Orange County Renters BEWARE - Fullerton Real Estate

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:25:18 -0800

AHHHH! So many scams; so little time. I feel as if this is all I write about any more! Geez, maybe I should start a column called - The Weekly Real Estate Scam! As if we don't have enough to worry about with the economy, default mortgages and multiple other scams; renting out a property by a fake owner is a growing trend. I have seen it time and time again; some scoundrel finds a lease listing posted by a real estate agent and posts it as their own. They take the information, the pictures, everything from the agent and posts it as their own. Or, they find a vacant house that is easy to enter and market's that one for lease, usually at a low price or for a low deposit. If it sounds too good to be true; it probably is. If you want to double check that the owner is legit, I would be happy to do that for you. The following consumer alert was posted by the Department of Real Estate to warn would be tenants of other ways this is happening. CONSUMER ALERT - BEWARE OF IMPOSTER LANDLORDS As a result of the mortgage meltdown, and with many thousands of foreclosures, there are abandoned properties in Fullerton and all of Orange County. Moreover, the continued economic downturn has left numerous people displaced and in need of rental housing. The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) has become aware of unscrupulous activity by some persons who hold themselves out as owners of vacant houses (and/or agents of such owners). These people prey on desperate consumers who are looking for some place to rent. These cons are able to convince potential renters into paying money, which may include a first and last month's rent and a security deposit, as well as follow up rental payments, for a house that is not owned by the supposed landlord. Sometimes it does not take much to fool potential tenants into believing that they are dealing with the real owner of the house. Here are some ploys these scammers use: They gain access to vacant houses by unlawfully breaking into the houses, changing the locks, securing the properties and giving the illusion of ownership. They go to great lengths to obtain documents which are used to falsely assert to prospective tenants that the houses are owned by them. For example, they sometimes access the county assessor's website and obtain a document called a Preliminary Change of Ownership Report. Normally, this report is filed with the assessor's office in connection with certain deeds to assist the assessor with property tax valuations. The crooks download and complete the Preliminary Change of Ownership Report document, sometimes obtaining a "filed" stamp, and then offer the document as evidence that they own the property to be rented. This might also make a prospective tenant believe that the person(s) he or she is dealing with is legitimate. Another scenario like this is where a bogus landlord makes payment of a small tax lien on a house not owned by them, and then provides evidence of that payment as so-called proof that he or she owns the house. They send out bogus letters, emails, and other documents which appear legitimate, instructing existing tenants to cease rental payments to the property owner and redirecting the tenants to pay their rent to these new "illegitimate" frauds. They may also prepare false leases or rental agreements to make everything look official. They advertise houses they do not own for lease or rent on Craigslist or other sites for classified ads of rental properties. While the DRE is seeing the fraud discussed in this warning in connection with houses offered for rent, the crooks sometimes advertise apartments in this manner. Care should be exercised with respect to all rentals offered. PLEASE DO NOT BECOME A VICTIM; THINGS TO DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF There is rampant fraud occurring in the house rental market in some parts of California. The con artists are looking for quick, up-front monies to be paid to them many times over. Additionally, because these operators generally use false names, it is difficult to track them down and bring them to justice. Sometimes they set up bogus corporate, company or partnership names and the entities are just shells. Therefore, you must do your homework to avoid becoming victimized. It would be in your best interest to ask anyone offering a house for rent to provide you with proof that they own the house, and to show you their government issued picture identification. Then scrutinize the proof of ownership, as well as the identifications since there is also the risk that their identifications can be false. If you think that you are dealing with an owner's/ landlord's representative, you should check with the DRE to see if that representative or agent is licensed. This is because a real estate license is required, with some narrow exceptions, for a person to offer a house for rent as an agent of the owner. Look up and check out the license records through the DRE web site (www.dre.ca.gov) and make sure you are working with legitimate licensees. If you are an existing tenant, you should check with the County Recorder's office in the county in which you live to verify the property's owner of record. If the house has been foreclosed upon, you should contact the new owner and verify with the current owner the person to whom you should be forwarding your rental payments. If you are considering renting or leasing, consider the following before entering into a rental agreement and turning over your money: Check with the County Recorder to determine if the house being offered for rent has a Notice of Default recorded. If the property has been foreclosed, call the lender, servicer or owner to obtain the name of the company or individual who is their representative. Do as much research as you are able to avoid more financial loss and distress to you and your family. Be aware of those with fancy titles or claims of being connected to a legitimate person, business or the government. If you feel you have dealt with a scammer in the area of a housing rental or have been defrauded in connection with rental of a house, please feel free to contact the Department of Real Estate at the following telephone numbers: Consumers in the Los Angeles area, (213) 620-2072 For Spanish-speaking consumers, call 1-877-DRE-4321

Single Level Brea Home For Sale - Bank Owned Cutie!

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 09:39:39 -0800

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DescriptionGreat single level home in the sought after city of Brea. This light and bright home features a good size back yard complete with fruit trees and a covered patio. The large kitchen is open to a nice sized family room with lots of windows and the formal living room features a warm fireplace. Here is your chance to live in home for the price of a Brea Condo!Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1968
Lot Size:	7875
Garage Size:	2 car
School District:	Brea
Square Footage:	1292
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P770094

Location962 Buttonwood Dr. Brea CA 92821

vFlyer Id: 4103956

Tomlinson Park Brea Single Level Home- Open House February 5th, 1:00 to 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 11:19:45 -0800

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Tomlinson Park Home		Association Pool
Association Tennis Courts	Association Area	Open Living Room
Spacious Master	Large Kitchen	Your View!

DescriptionSought after single story home in Tomlinson Park features three bedrooms including a large master suite and second bedroom with its own bath. This newer Brea home has a nice open floor plan including a living room with 20 x 20 tile floor, warm neutral colors throughout and large kitchen with granite counters and back splash. You will also find custom plantation shutters throughout the home and the master bedroom suite features a large walk in closet, French door to the rear patio and bathroom with two separate sinks, shower and soaking tub. As you step outside to the low maintenance back yard you will see a lovely and serene tree top view. Tomlinson Park Association features amenities such as tennis courts, basketball courts, children s playground, huge grass area, large resort like pool area with a spa, outdoor showers, bbq and picnic.Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2003
Subdivision:	Tomlinson Park
Lot Size:	5750
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Brea
Square Footage:	2000
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential CA Realty
MLS #:	P768710

Location967 Reynoso Parkway Brea CA 92821

vFlyer Id: 4076014

Downtown Fullerton Home For Sale - OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 22, 1:00 TO 4:00

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 09:10:37 -0800

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Front Porch	Large Back Yard	Large Side Yard
Living Room with Hardwood	Roomy Kitchen

DescriptionYou are going to love this Fullerton Charmer located in the sought after neighborhood of Downtown Fullerton! Located on a culdesac and complete with it's own front porch, three bedrooms, large back yard and gleeming hardwood floors and 1200 square feet of living space and listed for only $324,900, this is a GREAT price for the neighborhood***OPEN HOUSE SAT., JANUARY from 1:00 to 4:00***.Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	1
Year Built:	1948
Lot Size:	7630
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Fullerton
Square Footage:	1200
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential California Realty

Location401 N. Roosevelt Ave. Fullerton CA 92832

vFlyer Id: 4000702

Fullerton Real Estate - What if your Home Lost 75% of it's Value in Three Years?

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:08:13 -0800

Wow! Could you imagine if your home lost 75% of it's value in three years??!! It happened in one California city but thankfully, I am not talking about Fullerton or even an Orange County city for that matter. According to a Los Angeles Times article (and I tried to search their site to get it in it's entirety but no such luck); California was hit especially hard leading the nation in loss of home value. Number One was Stockton with a 75% loss...wow! In the greater Orange County area, we have seen a decrease in home values of 36% in the past three years. This got me thinking about Fullerton in particular. How much have the values declined in the past three years? I pulled a few sources and according to Trend Graphics, utilizing the sold price per square foot, Fullerton Homes have withstood a 21.5% decrease in the past three years. Some say we have hit the bottom; others say we have a few more years of this. My prediction? Well for 2011, I really think we will see more of the same as 2010; a little flat. But, let's end this on a high note; Be thankful that you don't live in Stockton! For more information about the Fullerton housing market (or North Orange County), or to see how your home is holding it's value, please contact me.

A Wild Rate Ride! When Rates Increase; Affordability Decreases Even if Prices Go Down! Fullerton Real Estate

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 03:25:01 -0800

"I think prices will fall so I am in no hurry to buy". Have you heard this before? Maybe you have even echoed this sentiment. It's common these days and really, there is nothing wrong with this line of thinking. But let's think for a moment about affordability vs. price. Home ownership has been at the highest level of affordability in decades. Rates have been the lowest ever. So is it to better to buy when rates are low or when prices are? It depends but waiting can sometimes be costly. Interest rates have taken a jump in the past couple of weeks and if we keep seeing an increase, it could offset the savings of a lower priced home. For example: If you borrow $250,000 to purchase a home at 5%, your payment is $1,342.05 and the total interest paid would be $233,138.00 Borrow $250,000 at 7% your payment would be $1, 663.26 and total interest paid would be $348,773.60. A 10% drop in value (with same scenario) = $25,000 vs. $115,635.60 added to interest - not to mention that $300+ per month payment difference! One thing I have learned is that anything can happen. Rates have been on an upswing (one day alone had an increase of .875%!!) This has left more than a few buyers a little dazed and confused about the amount of home they can afford. It is no fun for a buyer to have to reconsider their purchase price and start looking at lesser priced homes than they originally started with. I guess we will have to see how the year rounds out. We don't have long to wait and next month I will be brining you the Fullerton Year in Review. Happy Holidays! Special thanks to Sean Pulchalski of Academy Mortgage for his help with this article. For more information on rates you can contact him at 949-892-8102

Drake's Cristal Ball - The Future of the Fullerton Real Estate Market

Cristal Drake, Realtor - Fullerton Real Estate (Circa Properties) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 02:07:39 -0800

When a Downtown Fullerton home owner asked me what I think will happen to the Fullerton real estate market in the six to twelve months, I thought it might make for a good article. The answer depends on so many factors; a major one being foreclosures, or lack there of. Many banks still don't seem to be foreclosing. Between the loss the banks incur (when the home is actually sold), home owners working to stay in their homes, bankruptcies and lawsuits are just some things keeping the banks at bay. We have been anticipating that they will start foreclosing for years now but so far we really haven't seen it happen. If the banks DO start taking these homes, it will increase inventory. That is bad news for sellers because the more homes that are on the market, the more competition your home will have and the prices will continue to decline. Rates - If rates remain low this is great news for buyers AND sellers! When money is cheap (and right now it is), buyers can afford are higher priced home. Some economists predicted in 2007 that 2008 would yield higher prices and we know how that turned out. Some say that we will stabilize in 2012, others say 2014 and some say it could take 10 years. So much depends on factors that are just completely out of our control. Home prices escalated so furiously from early the early 2000's that some say we still have a lot more correcting to do, yet some say that we may see interest rates near 1%. Rates at 1%? Sound crazy? Well, 15 years ago, you might have thought it crazy to hear of rates in the low 4% and even high 3% range; but we've seen them! I find it interesting that when potential sellers talk about the short term market, they are pretty sure it will increase in the next 12 months but buyers on the other hand are certain that we have not yet hit the bottom. The funny thing is that if the buyer's don't buy, it becomes a self fulfilling proficy because it WILL drive prices down! The bottom line is that no one really knows. We have never been in a market like this where there are so many extra factors such as government involvement. While we can try to make educated guesses, one thing I do know is that the future is uncertain. Will home prices go up or down in the next year? No one really knows. You can guess or speculate, but at the end of the day do what is right for your family and home values WILL increase...sooner or later.

Cristal Drake's Fullerton Real Estate & Life

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Downtown Fullerton Home For Sale - OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 22, 1:00 TO 4:00

Fullerton Real Estate - What if your Home Lost 75% of it's Value in Three Years?

A Wild Rate Ride! When Rates Increase; Affordability Decreases Even if Prices Go Down! Fullerton Real Estate

Drake's Cristal Ball - The Future of the Fullerton Real Estate Market

Custom Skyline Dr. Fullerton Home for Sale Open House Sat. May 21