Cristal Drake's Fullerton Real Estate & Life

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:30:57 -0500

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 10:29:46 -0500

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 23:08:49 -0400

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 Expanded
Borrowers 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:53:19 -0400

Links

My Web Site

Photo Gallery

Description

Custom 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

Location

1816 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:44:38 -0400

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:11:18 -0400

Photo Gallery

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

Description

STANDARD 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

Location

432 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 18 May 2011 15:43:06 -0400

Links

My Web Site

Photo Gallery

Description

Custom 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

Location

1816 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Tue, 17 May 2011 12:11:38 -0400

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:32:46 -0400

Photo Gallery

Description

There 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

Location

741 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 23:20:34 -0400

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 22:44:08 -0400

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 18:25:18 -0500

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 17:39:39 -0500

Photo Gallery

Description

Great 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

Location

962 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 19:19:45 -0500

Photo Gallery

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

Description

Sought 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

Location

967 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 17:10:37 -0500

Photo Gallery

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

Description

You 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

Location

401 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 (Prudential California Realty) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 23:08:13 -0500

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 (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 11:25:01 -0500

"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 (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 10:07:39 -0500

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.

Fullerton Real Estate - So Why do I need to Qualify with the Seller's Bank Too?

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 21:59:37 -0400

If you are a buyer that has made an offer to purchase a bank owned home (also known as an REO) chances are you have asked yourself that exact question.

As a potential home buyer, you are already pre-approved with your own lender (at least I hope you are)who has patiently explained to you the programs, options, rates and the entire loan process. I mean it was tough enough to go get him/her everything she needed in the first place. Your head is spinning, you are swimming in a sea of numbers, payments and costs all after giving up your most personal information, the information that you wouldn't give most people that you actually know!

So, since you have done all that with the lender you chose, why would you need to give all that personal information up again? Well, when a bank owned property (REO) is listed for sale, they often require a cross qualification from a bank of their choosing; often THEY are actually the lending bank they want you to cross qualify with. Can they make me do this?????

Yes, I'm afraid they can and they will. So why is that? I figure there are at least a couple of reasons.

1. They Want Your Loan - I am not even going to pretend that they don't. Banks have lost their "You-Know-Whats" on loans gone bad and they want a chance to recoup their costs. If the bank is able to originate your loan on the house they are also selling you, then they cut their losses a little.

2. They Want To Make Sure You Really Qualify - The biggest reason a home falls out of escrow is because the loan doesn't come together. Either the buyer doesn't actually qualify or the bank can't perform; for whatever the reason, the loan doesn't come together. If you have cross-qualified with the seller's bank (often themselves), they can pick up where your lender might have left off.

So you might be wondering, "Do I have to use the bank's lender?". No, well not really. The bank (seller) can not legally require you to use the lender of their choosing. I will tell you that in a multiple offer situation, this can be a strong factor in the offer they choose. So while they can't force you, they may choose another offer based on the fact that they will get to originate the loan too.

Sound a little confusing? Double work? Yup and yup. I am actually waiting on a "cross qual" for a buyer of a Fullerton bank owned home as I write this. He is a picture perfect buyer and has a great lender who is working hard to get the bank's lender all the information they need.

What can you do? You can make sure you are working with a good local Realtor(r) that is educated in the process and knows how to help you work through these situations. You can sometimes get around it or give them less than all of your personal information but it is getting tougher to do that.

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Cristal Drake – Fullerton Realtor (R)...At Your Service for all your Fullerton area real estate needs! Prudential California Realty - 714-423-7525. DRE#: 01272061. All information in my blogs is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Copyright 2010 all rights reserved.

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Fullerton Real Estate, HOMEOWNERS BEWARE: Foreclosure Rescue Scams!

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 20:56:17 -0400

In writing this blog I noticed that though I haven't written much lately, the little I have written is about SCAMS! I get calls from people often after it is too late. It is bad enough that folks are forced with the potential loss of their home but now we have to worry about stinking scammers too!!!??? It makes me so mad!

With the recent rise in foreclosures, foreclosure-related scams have exploded onto the real estate scene. These so-called "foreclosure rescue companies" claim they will help save your home, but in reality are out to make a profit -- at your expense.

If you are at risk of or in foreclosure, you should be on the lookout for foreclosure scams. Here are some of the red flags to watch out for:

• Asks for money upfront before providing any service

• Instructs you not to contact your lender, lawyer, housing counselor, family, friends, or others

• Asks for mortgage payments to be made directly to his or her company or a bank account set up by that person, rather than your lender.

• Requires payment only in the form of cash, cashier's check, or wire transfer

• Promises to stop the foreclosure process, no matter the circumstances

• Advises you to transfer your property deed or title to his or her company

• Offers to fill out paperwork for you

• Asks for something to be done immediately and without delay. This includes pressuring you into signing paperwork that you have not had the chance to read thoroughly or do not fully understand

• Encourages you to lease your house and buy it back over time

• Offers to buy your house for a fixed price that is not set by the housing market at the time of sale

• Asks for you to give a power of attorney

• Asks for signatures on a grant deed or deed of trust

• Asks for signatures on a document that has lines left blank

• Fails to provide copies of signed documents

• Refuses or fails to put an oral promise in writing

Report Fraud - If you have been a victim of a foreclosure-related scam or approached by a scam artist, you may report the incident to the following organizations and government enforcement agencies:

California Attorney General http://ag.ca.gov

California Department of Real Estate www.dre.ca.gov

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) www.hud.gov

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) www.ftc.gov

Legitimate ResourcesIf you are at risk of foreclosure or have already received a foreclosure notice, you should contact your lender immediately. Homeowners also may seek the advice of a reputable housing, financial or credit counselor, attorney, or other qualified professional. Homeowners may visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Web site at http://www.hud.gov/ to view its Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure and its list of California HUD-approved housing counseling agencies. In addition, the non-profit Homeownership Preservation Foundation has a 24/7 toll-free Homeowner's HOPE Hotline at (888) 995-HOPE.

The bottom line is that you should always go with your gut. Even if something feels off and you aren't sure why, you should seek help. If you have questions on anything pertaining to Fullerton Real Estate (or the Surrounding areas) I would be happy to help!

Brought to you by your Realtor® Cristal Drake and the California Association of Realtors®

Loan Mod's - They're Not for the Faint of Heart! Tips to getting your Loan Mod Applcation Reviewed.

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:04:13 -0400

I receive about a call a week from someone needing help with the loan mod process. It really is almost a no-man's land and though I can look through the financials and help decipher the bank language, often times the loan mod is not going to work for one reason or another. It is tough to explain that to someone who is really having a hard time making their mortgage and just needs help. I thought this article had helpful hints and was worth sharing.

8 Tips to Getting Your Loan Modification Application Reviewed

RISMEDIA, September 25, 2010-Many homeowners seeking a loan modification to lower their monthly mortgage payments and avoid foreclosure continue to find the application process a complex web, often causing them to give up before their application is ever reviewed by their mortgage company.

Certified housing counselors for CredAbility, a national nonprofit credit counseling and education agency, speak with hundreds of homeowners daily who are seeking a loan modification or other solutions to keep their homes. The organization has several tips for people that will help them increase the chances that their application is reviewed as quickly as possible.

"A homeowner needs to collect and send several documents that tell the mortgage company why you need a modification, and it needs to be done in a timely, organized manner," said Michelle Jones, senior vice president of counseling for CredAbility. "Once a homeowner has submitted these documents, they need to stay in regular contact with the company. With hundreds of thousands of applications under consideration, homeowners must take matters into their own hands to make sure their application gets to the right person at the company."

Here are CredAbility's recommendations for homeowners seeking a loan modification:

Speak With a Nonprofit Housing Counselor to Understand Investor Rules for Your Loan. Every homeowner's mortgage loan is different, so don't rely on information you may have heard from your neighbor or your sister-in-law, even if they received a loan modification. For example, if your 30-year, fixed interest rate loan is owned by one investor, and your neighbor's is owned by another investor, the rules governing a loan modification may be quite different. A certified counselor at a nonprofit credit counseling agency can help you find the investor who owns your mortgage and determine your options.

Submit All Documents That Prove Your Current Income. Income verification is critical, but homeowners sometimes don't provide their mortgage company with recent documents. If you lost a job in June, don't provide pay stubs from March. In addition to recent pay stubs and other traditional income sources, homeowners should also provide a document called a "contribution letter." This letter explains the source of any household income that is not easily verified. For example, a servicer will want to know the total household income of a married couple, even if only one person's name is on the loan. The letter could also include income verifying that you have a roommate that pays rent.

Submit Current Bank Statements. Recent bank statements allow your mortgage company to verify your income and expenses. This information enables the mortgage company to see your monthly expenses for food, utilities and other expenses and determine whether you will have enough money to make your mortgage payment.

Mail Your Documents to the Mortgage Company. Many people prefer to send all of their documents by fax or scan their documents and send them via email. However, postal mail is usually more reliable, especially if it's addressed to the person you spoke with at the mortgage company. Faxes often get lost.

Label Each Page With Your Name and Loan Number. One of the most common complaints among homeowners is that the mortgage company loses their documents. You can help your own cause by writing your name and loan number on each page of every document.

Fully Explain Any Recent or Unique Income Changes. For example, a bank deposit may show various one-time transactions, such as an asset sale, cash gifts from family members or a bonus. Unless you explain this one-time increase in income, the servicer may not understand it and use this information to deny your loan modification.

Include a Timeline in Your Hardship Letter. Every application for a loan modification must include a "hardship letter" that explains the reasons for your request. But the letter must have specific dates explaining when an income loss has occurred. If your spouse lost her job on July 15 and your family income will decrease by $3,000 beginning in August, your letter needs to provide these details.

Call Your Mortgage Company Every Week. Many homeowners work extremely hard to submit all of their paperwork to the servicer - and then wait for weeks before picking up the telephone to call them about the status of their application. This is a mistake for several reasons: the person handling your application may quit; the application may be transferred to another person; the company may need more information. You get the picture.

Orange County Property Tax Assesment - Your Property Taxes Could Possibly be Reduced!

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 21:34:14 -0400

Everywhere I go in Fullerton, or in Orange County for that fact, there is one thing that every homeowner knows...what their house was ONCE WORTH; and it was ONCE worth much more!

No one is happy about the loss in their home's value but there might be slight silver lining, lower property taxes! If you have received your property tax notice and disagree with the value, you can file an application for changed assessment (assessment appeal) with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors. The filing period is July 2, 2010 to September 15, 2010.

Be prepared to provide information that indicates the property's Market Value was lower than the Prop. 13 value on January 1, 2010.

Click here and here to receive the full instruction pages and for more information, check out: The Orange County Assessors Office.

If you need any help gathering up comparable properties, feel free to contact me and I will be glad to provide those for you. I will admit that I learned the hard way how to get the correct comparable sales (they don't come out and tell you this) but they will NOT USE SHORT SALES OR BANK OWNED PROPERTIES. At least they didn't when I went to support a client. Read our experience here: Choose Your Comparables Wisely!

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Orange County and LA County Home Owners - Look Out for this SCAM!

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:44:46 -0400

If you are a home owner, you might have received a letter in the mail that looks pretty official. It could have come from the "Recording Compliance Board" or the "Title Compliance Office"; I have seen a couple different versions. I even received one in the mail!

It might ask you to send a processing fee anywhere from $145.00 to $160.00 to reconvey your deed or to order a copy of your grant deed.

Sure, it looks legit and official but don't take the bait! All they are offering to do is send you a copy of something that you can get for FREE! Any of these documents are a matter of public record. Any Realtor® can obtain them for you.

For more information or for recorded documents, please contact me! I would be happy to help!

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Cristal Drake - Prudential California Realty

Your Real Estate Resource!

Realtor®, CDPE, ID# 01272061

714-423-7525

cristaldrake@gmail.com www.DrakeEstates.com

Cristal Drakeis a Fullerton Resident and Realtor® specializing in North Orange County foreclosure sales, equity sales and short sales. All information in her blog is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Copyright 2009 all rights reserved.

The secret is service but If you are happy with my service; please don't keep it a secret!

Placentia Home lease - Great Area! Open house Sunday, June 26

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 01:49:32 -0400

$1,495 per month - Great Placentia Neighborhood - Two Bedroom Condo for Lease - Near Golden School! Open House Sunday, June 27th!

Location: Placentia, CA

OPEN HOUSE - Sunday, June 27th from 1:00 to 4:00!
Location, location, location! Here is the cute little place you have been hoping for! A very clean, SINGLE level townhome in a great area of Placentia! This home has only one attached wall and with no one above or below; it feels more like a little house. It even has a small enclosed yard, and a full two car garage with laundry hook ups. The complex is quiet and nice with green lawns, trees, plenty of parking and a community swimming pool. BRAND NEW WINDOWS will be going end at the end of the month. Here is your opportunity to live in a wonderful area of Placentia surrounded by nice homes, parks and near the some of the best schools in the area!

Contact Information

Cristal Drake

cristaldrake@gmail.com

714-423-7525

Prudential California Realty
Facebook.com/
FullertonRealEstateAgent
Twitter.com/CristalDrake
dre #: 01272061

Pricing

Rent: $1,495 per month

Available Date: Thu Jul 01, 2010

Deposit: 1495

Minimum Lease: one year

Included Utilities: trash, gardener (front)

Property Location

641 Seneca St.

Placentia, CA 92870

View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 2	Bathrooms: 1
Parking Spaces: 2 car garage	Year Built: 1972
School District: Placentia Linda	Agent Name: Cristal Drake
Broker: Placentia California Realty	MLS #: p740734
Elementary: Golden	Middle: Tuffree
High School: El Dorado

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Washer Dryer Hook-Ups

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Swimming Pool

Grass Lawn

Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 3414422

Photo Gallery

Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 3414422

All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Spacious Fullerton Home For Sale - Custom Kitchen! Fullerton Open House Sat., June 5th

Cristal Drake, Realtor Fullerton Real Estate (Prudential California Realty) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 20:41:56 -0400

Photo Gallery

Description

Beautifully maintained and upgraded single level home in the sought after city of Fullerton, CA! With three bedrooms and TWO bathrooms this lovely home has plenty of space (over 1300 sq. ft) and features a completely remodeled custom kitchen with: granite counters, recessed lighting, wood floors, custom cabinets, extra deep pantry with lots of storage, stainless steel appliances (including microwave and trash compactor) and upgraded windows. Other features include; living room fireplace, central air, corner lot with GATED RV PARKING, partially finished attic, and an enclosed sunroom (not included in the sq. ft.) Look no further; this lovingly cared for home is a standard sale - no waiting for the bank! ***OPEN HOUSE SAT., JUNE 5th from 1:00 to 4:00***.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1952
Lot Size:	6464
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Fullerton
Square Footage:	1314
Agent Name:	Cristal Drake
Broker:	Prudential California Realty
MLS #:	P737536

Location

500 W. Hill Fullerton CA 92832

vFlyer Id: 3358312

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

Fullerton Real Estate - So Why do I need to Qualify with the Seller's Bank Too?

Fullerton Real Estate, HOMEOWNERS BEWARE: Foreclosure Rescue Scams!

Loan Mod's - They're Not for the Faint of Heart! Tips to getting your Loan Mod Applcation Reviewed.

Orange County Property Tax Assesment - Your Property Taxes Could Possibly be Reduced!

Orange County and LA County Home Owners - Look Out for this SCAM!

Placentia Home lease - Great Area! Open house Sunday, June 26

Spacious Fullerton Home For Sale - Custom Kitchen! Fullerton Open House Sat., June 5th

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