Stella Abraham

The Peak

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 06:27:00 +0000

A site on The Peak fetched the third-highest land price in the city's history yesterday, underscoring the continued strength of the luxury residential market.

Nan Fung Development and The Wharf (Holdings) (SEHK: 0004) paid HK$10.4 billion in an auction for the site at 103 Mount Nicholson Road - HK$32,014 per square foot

Click HERE to see a google map - for all of you overseas folk - please notice all of the green stuff! Those are trees! Often peoples perception of HK is that we don't have any!

Including yesterday's sale, the HK government has generated HK$26.05 billion from land sales since the start of the financial year in April. Its target is HK$34.1 billion. The government will sell four commercial and residential sites worth more than HK$7 billion next month.

EXCHANGE RATE................................................US$ 1 = HK$ 7.8

You do the maths! I think I might be in the right city!

Cheers - Stella Abraham, REALTOR
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Feng Shui

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 06:24:00 +0000

Being back in Hong Kong has made me realise that one of the biggest differences when it comes to buying, leasing or selling a property (apart from the obvious procedures!) is Feng Shui 風水 and how important it is to clients here.

I was with some clients today who are looking at buying a property. I know that they are thinking of renovating the property extensively - did they bring an interior designer with them - NO! They brought their Feng Shui Master with them......

So what is Feng Shui 風水? It literally translates as 'wind-water' and is an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics believed to use the laws of both Earth (the geography) and Heaven (the astronomy) to help improve ones life by receiving positive qi.

I am most definitely not an expert but can put you in touch with one!

If you want to know more or even fancy a chat about property here in Hong Kong or in the US then get in touch stella@stellaabraham.com

Cheers - Stella Abraham
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Even Real Estate Companies move house!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:27:00 +0000

In a couple of weeks CB Richard Ellis will be moving house!

Our new location will be
4/F Three Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong

For all of those non Hong Kongers amongst us, click on the address to take a look at the building......certainly in a convenient location!

In Hong Kong, it is common practice to bless a new home or a new business - Yes! When you spend that much time at work as people do here in Hong Kong then that becomes your home as well!

A few weeks ago was the Bai Sun 拜神 ceremony at the new office
Bai 拜 means 'worship' and Sun 神 means 'god'

In return for good business, nice things are offered to the gods and funnily enough food is one of these things!
Roasted pig is a popular choice (sorry all vegetarians out there!) The reason is an auspicious one.......when cooked, the pig turns red.....the most auspicious colour!

So here is to good business and fortune to all.....

Cheers
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Stella Hearts Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 07:26:00 +0000

I have recently made a big decision to return home to Hong Kong. Having spent the last 13 years overseas, it was time! I am excited about being in real estate here in Hong Kong - a city where 80% of people live on 8% of the land! Hong Kong is definitely one of the most intriguing places when it comes to property; it's architecture, development, value and let's not forget the Feng Shui (风水)!

I am pleased to say that I have joined the Residential team at CB Richard Ellis. I am currently studying hard for my Hong Kong Real Estate License - Yes! I need to take another exam - that will mean that I will be licensed in VT, CA and HK!

Having lived in Asia, Australia, Europe and the United States, I have now had experience with real estate in many countries and have a clear understanding of how differently it is handled in other countries.

Being born and raised here in Hong Kong, my local knowledge is excellent. It will be a great resource to people relocating to Hong Kong. Having lived in so many places, I am somewhat familiar with relocation and its associated stresses. My life as a working mum and having a child who is growing up in Hong Kong, means that I have an excellent expatriate overview of life here with children.

My passion, knowledge and experience with regards to living life in Hong Kong will be a real asset for anyone arriving and settling here.

If you think I can help you or someone you know in either the US or here in Hong Kong then please email or call me at 6717 6317

Cheers

Stella Abraham

Senior Analyst
CB Richard Ellis
34/F Central Plaza
18 Harbour Road
Wanchai, Hong Kong

T 852 2820 2800
F 852 2522 7762
D 852 2820 1523

stella.abraham@cbre.com.hk
www.cbre.com.hk

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noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Is it a prefabricated home? You decide!

An agent in my office, Dianne Vernon was talking about this home that she has been involved with in Palm Springs, California

The best thing - it was recently featured in my favourite magazine DWELL!

Click HERE to read the article on line -

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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Are you a First Time Buyer and what does this mean?

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:15:00 +0000

You are considered a First Time Buyer if you have never owned a home before or you have not owned a home for the last 3 years.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has extended the First Time Buyer Tax Credit for California.

Here are some of the highlights;

$10,000 tax credit or 5% of purchase price (whichever is lower which in this area will probably be the $10,000!)
New and existing homes are eligible
There is $100 million in funds which will be available on a first come first serve basis

So if you are thinking about buying a property in the Bay Area and you are a First Time Buyer then contact me @ 650 917 4229.

I thoroughly enjoy working with buyers and here is the added bonus about this credit - there is no limit on salary or the purchase price - perfect for this area!

For more information please click HERE

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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Location, location, location

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 22:01:00 +0000

An extremely, interesting piece from MSNBC about the current property market in the US of A! A nice mention about San Francisco - and a positive increase for Vermont!

Richard Smith talks about the emotions and the fact that property all over the US is different. Very well put!

And they even mention STELLA - in financing terms admittedly but that will do!

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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Does an Open House sell your home?

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:00:00 +0000

I am afraid I have to stick to my guns about this one and say NO!

Having sold property in both Vermont and California, I will say that the attitude towards Open Houses here in CA is slightly different. The number of Open Houses in the Silicon Valley is insane. It seems that sellers here still believe that an Open House is an effective part of a marketing plan. Unfortunately the statistics say otherwise....

A National Association of Realtors study found that their success rate is a mere 2%.

The attitude towards Open Houses here seems to be so 'gung ho' that homes often seem to have 2 Open Houses a weekend - both Saturday and Sunday.

I feel for the owners of that home who have to clean up, vacate and find something to do for the whole of their weekend - especially if they have kiddies.

The times that I have heard of an Open House resulting in a contract, was when a home was held 'Open' the first weekend of being on the market. The home was not available to view until that weekend and therefore brought many people through the door - with and without a Realtor.

If you live in your home and are on the market and you are finding that getting ready for Open Houses every weekend is becoming too much then speak with your Realtor......

I am afraid to say that the facts speak for themselves, an Open House will most likely not sell your home.

If you are considering selling your home and want to chat about a successful marketing plan that doesn't involve you packing up and moving out all weekend then please call me 650 917 4229.

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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A Bed and Breakfast - So British!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 19:45:00 +0000

I recently went to pick up a friend who was staying at this beautiful Bed and Breakfast in Atherton, CA.

It is conveniently located for both the city of San Fransisco as well as the hub of Silicon Valley.

Although the 6000+ square foot house is modeled on a French chateau, it has that quaint British feel of a Bed and Breakfast with a touch of class.......It was stunning!

A perfect place to stay!

Please visit the website or contact Tricia Young by email or phone 650 474 2777

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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You learn a new thing every day

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 01:00:00 +0000

What a true statement - especially when you see at least one new house everyday!

I have an extremely good friend. She is talented, gifted and everyone knows her for her love of Eichler homes. Well today I went looking for her baby Eichler!

On Broker Tour I saw my first of no doubt many Mackay homes that will come on the market.

They too represent California Modern with a clean mid century design. A home that invites the outdoors in with sun-filled atriums, sky lights, open floor plans and ceiling to floor windows. These homes were also constructed in the early 1940s and 1950s.

The home I saw today was in the Monta Loma area and is the perfect place for my dear friend - a modern neighbourhood with an old fashioned sense of community!

I found this very interesting article about Mackay homes and Eichler homes

As well as this interesting Blog called "If it is here it's hip"

Do you live in a Mackay or Eichler home? How much do you love it?

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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A love for shells...

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:50:00 +0000

When I find a good restaurant I just have to tell! A little bit of a drive from my local haunt of Los Altos but worth every drop of petrol!

Anchor Oyster Bar - San Francisco
579 Castro St
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 431-3990

If you love oysters, clams, shrimp and fresh crab with a simple glass of white wine then this is the place........

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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Kung Hei Fat Choi

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 14:39:00 +0000

Were you born during a Year of the Tiger?

I was!

You were if you were born in one of these years:
1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, and 1998.

The Chinese use the lunar calendar for celebratory events which includes the New Year. This falls somewhere between late January and early February. The cycle of twelve animal signs originates from Chinese tradition as a way of naming the years. The animals follow one another in an established order and are replicated every twelve years. The rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig are the twelve animal signs. Every animal has particular characteristics and people born in a specific year are believed to take on these characteristics.
2010 is the Year of the Tiger, which commences on February 14, 2010 and ends on February 2, 2011. The Tiger is the third sign in the Chinese Zodiac cycle, and it is a sign of bravery. This courageous and fiery fighter is admired by the ancient Chinese as the sign that keeps away the three main tragedies of a household. These are fire, thieves and ghosts.
Tigers are physically powerful, gracious, independent and brave, they are extremely bold animals. They are friendly and loving but can also selfish and short tempered. Tigers seek attention and power; frequently they are envious in a relation. Tigers live dangerously which often leads to trouble. They are intolerant, take risks and are always searching for excitement. Tigers are also instilled with a good dose of courage.
The Tiger has an overpowering attraction and is very kind and always takes on the character as protector. The Tiger flourishes by power and attention and takes advantage of all circumstances it gets itself into. The Tiger is a natural leader and loves to be the center of attention. As a rebel it goes up against authority and speaks out about wrongs in society, and willingly puts up objections. Even if you don’t agree with the beliefs of the tiger you admire his way to protest.
Just as how their counterparts in the jungle are impulsive, so too are individuals born in the Chinese Year of the Tiger. When people think of tigers, it is their vigor and power that comes to mind first. But it has also been noted that tigers are known to share and are unselfish animals. The reason people admire the tiger is due to the fact that they are ferocious and domineering on the outside, but they are just as noble and distinguished on the inside. These are the same personality attributes that persons will have who are born in the Year of the Tiger.
People that are born in the Year of the Tiger are generally well liked because of their charismatic personalities. Often, failing at a given duty or being unproductive in his personal or professional life can cause a Tiger to experience a deep sense of depression. A Tiger is always at their happiest when they endeavour to climb the ladder of success. Attaining the top spot is his foremost purpose; being in a position of power is her ultimate goal. They are quick learners, need to be challenged and often prefer to work alone. Some Tigers tend to change careers more frequently because they get bored quite easily. They are natural born leaders and perform at their best if working towards positions of power and influence. So once there is no further room for progression, they will often move on to something else.
Anyone that is born in the Year of the Tiger is usually straightforward and outgoing by nature. They will never give up no matter how aggravated they may become. But, they are also full of suspicion and at times will take hasty action. Never lose sight of the fact that Tigers are smart and instinctive.
People born in the Year of the Tiger always take pride in being different from others, and normally demonstrate their originality best in their homes. Their homes are typically filled with exotic possessions. It is no surprise that one of the Tiger’s favorite gemstones is the cat’s eye, but tigers also love the sparkle of rubies and diamonds. They like to spend money, and also to share it. They can be very impulsive spenders because they know they can at all times make more.
The Year of the Tiger is the third year in the cycle of “Heavenly Branches”. Customarily, it is called “Yin”. Those born in the Year of the Tiger are compatible with the horse, dog, and dragons. The year 2010 is another Year of the Tiger. It is the ji-chou year. Ji is the sixth of the Ten Celestial Stems and yin is the third of the Twelve Terrestrial Branches and marks the Year of the Tiger.

Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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Mortgages and Wine

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 15:40:00 +0000

The majority of my clients have all bought their homes and have needed to have a mortgage! Some transactions went smoothly and others nearly cost my clients their home.

I can not reiterate enough how important it is to have a mortgage lender who is on hand, local and prepared to kick some serious bottom when things aren't going as smoothly as wanted.

In Vermont, I was fortunate enough to have had numerous transactions with Nick Parent of Spruce Mortgage. I could always rely on him. He always returned phone calls, was honest, sincere and more importantly put his clients first. I can not recommend him enough.

Now that I have moved to the Bay Area I am trying to find a Nick Parent!

There is a gentleman in my office called Greg Vanslow who works for Princeton Capital. I am yet to have a transaction with him but have heard great things about his professionalism, commitment and knowledge. The added bonus is that he is quite knowledgeable when it comes to wine!

Weekly he sends an email giving an honest and real update of the weeks events....to top off the reading he always adds his thoughts on recent wines and good value wines.....one can never have too much information.....

If you would like to skip the honest information about the current mortgage situation and prefer to jump to his thoughts about wine then scroll down to the section about Wine!

Good afternoon,
The Dow is down to 10,100.
The 10 Year Treasury is back down to 3.60%.
The dollar is doing great, $1.40/Euro, as a result of economic weakness in Europe and other zones, which helps attract investment in Bonds.
So, rates are holding up. The attached rate sheet is unchanged.

No economic news until Wednesday so based on stochastics I would expect a little worsening in rates over the next couple days.

People keep asking me if lending is loosening yet?

Not really.

We are seeing a few exceptions, however. One notable loosening is that FHA has put a one year suspension on its flipping rule.
You recall that FHA did not do loans on properties that had been owned by the current owner less than 90 days.
The exception was for REOs owned by nationally chartered banks. About a year ago they loosened the exception to any REO.

Now they are allowing flipping by most anyone, with lots of fine print. The big thing to look for is if the seller is making more than 20% and arms length transactions. If the seller is re-selling in less than 90 days and is selling for more than 20% over what they paid it may still be allowed, but there’s extra fine print. The fine print isn’t especially worth memorizing, but if you’re interested let one of us know and we’ll send it to you.

Back to the topic of tightening lending.

You may recall me speculating that FHA was going to increase their insurance premiums. They are. They are increasing their Up-Front MI premium (which can be rolled into the loan amount) from 1.75% to 2.25 % affective April 15. Nice date to implement that, eh? As with just about everything in the lending world, there are exceptions, but I’m pretty sure I’ll never encounter a deal that fits.

FHA Condo Projects
Don’t forget that January 31 is the last day to get an FHA case number and get a condo spot approval.
FHA has announced how the new condo project approvals will work going forward. I’ve attached a matrix showing the required documents for a given type of project.
Here’s a summary of the approval requirements. Enjoy:

There are some Temporary Guidelines.
Until December 31, 2010 the following guidelines have been relaxed for full project approvals:

FHA Concentration
Will be increased to 50% vs. 30% and in some cases up to 100%. In order to be eligible for the 100% exception the project will have to meet the following parameters:
1.      Project must be 100% complete for at least 1 year. Builder will have to provide evidence of the temporary/conditions certificate of occupancy for the last unit.
2.      100% of the units must be sold and no entity owns more than 10% of the units
3.      Budget provided for funding of replacement reserves for capital expenditures and deferred maintenance in an account representing at least 10% of the budget
4.      HOA has control
5.      Owner occupancy is at least 50%
6.      Project is NOT New Construction or a conversion

Owner Occupancy
50% of the units must be owner occupied or sold to owners who intend to occupy.
Vacant or tenant occupied real estate owned (REOs), including properties that are bank owned may be excluded from the calculation (should be removed from both the numerator and denominator)

Pre-Sale Requirements
Will be reduced to 30% vs. 50%.

PROJECT APPROVAL GUIDELINES

Mortgagee Letter 2009-46B revises and consolidates existing guidance. It provides the lender the option of either approving the project (DELRAP) or sending it to HUD for approval (HRAP). Lenders are required to submits the first 5 projects for HUD approval before underwriting them internally on an on-going basis.

The following is a summary of the requirements needed to gain project approval on all projects (existing or new construction):

1.      Minimum number of units: Projects must consist of 2 units or more.
2.      Commercial Space: No more than 25% of the property’s total floor are can be used for commercial purposes.
3.      Investor Ownership: No more than 10% of the units may be owned by one investor.
4.      Delinquent HOA Dues: No more than 15% of the total units can be delinquent in their fees.
5.      Presale Requirement: At least 50% of the total units must be sold.
6.      Owner Occupancy: At least 50% must be owner occupied.
7.      FHA Concentration: For projects with 3 or less units, no more than 1 unit can be encumbered by FHA financing. Projects of 4 or more units will have no more than 30% of the total units encumbered by FHA Financing. HUD will start tracking thru the FHA Connection this information. Once a case number has been assigned, it’s ok to proceed even if the concentration has changed.
8.      Budget Review: The budget must include allocations to ensure sufficient funds are available to maintain and preserve all amenities and features. The funding of replacement reserves for capital expenditures and deferred maintenance must be at least 10% of the budget.
9.      Insurance Requirements: Fidelity Bond insurance is required for projects with 20 or more units. Coverage must equal at least the sum of 3 months aggregate assessments on all units plus the reserve funds.
10. Environmental review: Required only if HUD underwrites project and if the project is at the initial stage of construction.
11. Condominium Conversions: Will be treated as new construction

New Construction Condominium Projects

Additional documents required on new construction or condominium conversions are:
1.      Builders Certification of Plans, Specification and Site. Form HUD-92541
2.      Builder’s Warranty, form HUD-92544
3.      Building Permit (or its equivalent)
4.      Final Certificate of Occupancy (or its equivalent).
5.      A temporary Certificate of Occupancy is acceptable under the following circumstances: A. All common areas and amenities are 100% complete and the certificate states that the unit is habitable and eligible for immediate occupancy. B. The jurisdiction that is issuing the certificate has in place a standard protocol to later issue permanent certificates.

Projects on HUD’s Rejected or Withdrawn List

If the project has been rejected or withdrawn by HUD, the project is not eligible for reconsideration unless the following parameters are met:
1.       Projects rejected or withdrawn 12 months or Less: new additional information may be submitted to HUD for reconsideration under the HRAP processing.
2.      Projects rejected or withdrawn over 12 months: new additional information may be submitted to HUD under HRAP or the lender can do the DELRAP review.

Projects on HUD’s Approved List

If the project is on HUD’s approved list, the lender must certify that it has no knowledge of circumstances or conditions that might have an adverse effect on the project. In order to do so an HOA cert will be required on all files and the following information will be required:
1.      Owner occupancy: At least 50%
2.      Percentage of owners in arrears: No more than 15%
3.      Investor Ownership: No more than 10% of the units may be owned by a single entity.
4.      FHA Concentration Rate. No more than 50% until the end of 2010 and 30% from 2011 on.

Recertification of Project Approvals

Project approvals will expire 2 years from the date of placement on the list of approved condominiums. Lenders will be required to recertify the project. In addition to meeting the guidelines required for projects on the list, the following items must be evaluated:

1.      Pending special assessments
2.      Pending legal action against the condominium association, or its officers or directors; and
3.      Adequate hazard, liability insurance and when applicable, flood insurance.

Projects that received approval prior to October 1, 2008 will require recertification on or before December 7, 2010.

Projects that received approval between October 1, 2008 thru December 7, 2009 will expire 2 years from the placement on the approved list.

Princeton Capital is an RMR Financial company. RMR Financial is a Residential Mortgage Lender, licensed by the California Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, license #415-0027, and the Oregon Division of Finance and Corporate Securities, license #ML-2847.

Wine
Willi Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling QbA 2007 (Mosel) - $10 Artison Wine Depot – A little sweet, but great deal on a good German Riesling.

2007 Candela Pinot Noir Monterey, CA - $17 Wine Club – “I usually like to give a little background for each of the wines I write up. But, not much is known about this wine other than it is made by Miura Vineyards (producers of some of California’s best Pinots) and comes from Monterey/Santa Lucia Highlands area. Oh, I also know that it is tasty!

I was first captivated by the color of this Pinot. Usually Pinots in this price range are a bit thin and lacking intense color. Not this wine. It has a rich, appealing dark cranberry color with fuchsia edges. The nose really got my attention. Focused aromas of boysenberry, blackberry and cranberry with notes of candied cherries almost overwhelm the senses. My initial reaction after the first sip was “Wow!” Really jammy fruit but more tangy than sweet. Flavors of plum, cranberry, black raspberry and kirsch are complimented by very subtle flavors of tobacco and anise. This isn’t what I’d call ‘classic Pinot‘ but I would call it one of the best I’ve tasted this year for under $20.”

If you would like a quick chat with Greg then send him an email or feel free to call him on 650 917 4263 and as always if you have any questions about buying or selling a property please feel free to call me at 650 917 4229!

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos

95 1st Street,

Los Altos, CA 94022

The Real Estate Deal

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:14:00 +0000

.......IF YOU WOULD LIKE A BETTER LOOK AT THE CLIP PLEASE CLICK ON IT.........

I was recently unpacking my "office" boxes and I came across "the real estate deal" survey that was published when I first joined Hickok and Boardman in 2008 for Seven Days in Vermont.

It is funny how life changes and here I am back in the Bay Area.......I thought it would be a bit of a giggle filling it out again!

My Another dream vacation would be......~~travelling around South America~~ to travel to an island - a remote one!

If I didn't enjoy being ~~weren't~~ a Realtor I would be a......~~chocolate taster~~ shoe designer

My favourite lunch place is......~~Sakura Bana Japanese Restaurant on Church Street~~ Sushi Maru

If I could eat one food for the rest of my life it would be......~~sushi~~ the fresh oysters at Sushi Maru which are only available at dinner

~~The~~ A more useful talent I wish I possessed is......~~tap dancing~~ the ability to be in more than one place at a time!

My favourite toy as an adult is ~~a kid was~~......~~the playhouse my mum and dad made for me with two pieces of plywood, some hinges and spare fabric for the curtains~~ my iphone!

If I had $10.99 to spend I would buy......~~a book for my 5 year old son~~ Callum a gift card at The Lego Store

The movie I ~~have watched~~ enjoyed the most in 2009 was is......~~kramer vs kramer, and I cried every time~~ Le scaphandre et le papillon and yes I cried!

Before I was a Realtor, one of my ~~interesting~~ hardest jobs was......~~a guest services officer on the executive floor of a Hong Kong hotel~~ working for Planet Hollywood London - the basic wage was a pittance and I had to wear the most ghastly uniform which it seems is available to purchase at Ebay

On a ~~Sunday~~ Monday morning you will most likely find me......~~on a mountain snowboarding~~ in a yoga class desperately trying to touch my toes

The ~~first~~ last piece of real estate I bought was......~~a very small two bedroom flat in Kensington, London~~ a beautiful house in Essex, Vermont

And how would the photo be different?.......I certainly don't need to wear a beanie to work anymore!

I would love to know what your answers are so just copy and paste!

Cheers

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022
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ELATED!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 21:55:00 +0000

I have just received my official number fromMr Arnold Schwarzenegger

I can now legally talk about property again! I was recently asked why on earth I would get into this business with the current situation with the economy and housing markets......my response.....I am not getting in to this business. I have sold real estate now since 1998 both in London England and the US. This is not a hobby, a part time career or even a plain old job! Real estate is in my blood - I live and breathe it!

I do not believe that having been in the area ‘forever’ makes you a good agent. I have not lived in the Bay Area 'forever' but I can tell you that I have a fabulous proven record. I began selling property in Vermont after only living there for a year – now remember Vermont is a state where ‘everyone knows everyone’ and '6 degrees of separation' is more like '2 degrees if separation'!

I blew out of the water the statement that to be a successful agent you need to have been in the business, know a lot of people and have been in the area for the last 25 years. I quickly, in a market that was being called a ‘tough market’ became successful. When I left in the summer, I was ranked 12th in the Northern Vermont Board of Realtors and 4th in Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman. I was recognized as the Northern Vermont Board of Realtor Rookie of the Year 2009. The President of the NVBR Board said - “Stella is the epitome of the Realtor Young Professional. Since entering the field, she has embraced the profession utilizing technology and social networking to drive her business; not to mention good old-fashioned hard work.”That makes me a tad proud!

So I am all set to go. One thing I learnt in Vermont was that I couldn't have accomplished what I did without Coldwell banker Hickok and Boardman. I have found a company that I believe can support me as they did. A company with local history and experience. I believe, obviously by my choice, that Coldwell Banker is the strongest and most progressive agent in this area.

To gain a surefire way of learning about Los Altos and the South Bay I have chosen to work with Aileen LaBouff. Yes, she also has a funny accent like me but most importantly she has been working full time in this area since 2002. She, like myself, has prior real estate experience from overseas – even more than I - she has been doing this since 1990. I believe that her knowledge and experience are going to be invaluable to me.

Real estate have changed all over America. It is not about newspaper and magazine advertising, mass mailings (thankfully for the trees!) and Open Houses. It seems that it is customary to still mass mail and that the principal marketing is still newspaper and magazine advertisements. I have even heard that there are agents that actually think the internet is their enemy. Can you believe that?! I am determined to have a different approach.

In this day and age you need a tech-savvy agent who thinks outside of the box, communicates well (even with an accent!) and problem solves.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a property and you are in the Bay Area then call me!

650 919 3190

I am determined, committed and somewhat passionate!

Cheers

Stella Abraham,
REALTOR Coldwell Banker Los Altos
95 1st Street,
Los Altos, CA 94022

Abraham Christmas Letter 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 05:59:00 +0000

(click to enlarge)

- Stella Abraham

A note from Arnie!!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 17:54:00 +0000

You can click on the photo to see my letter from Mr Arnold Schwarzenegger

Now it is just a matter of process for my license to arrive!

- Stella Abraham

A Real Estate Company

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:32:00 +0000

A decision has been made!

I have decided that I am going to go and work with the Los Altos branch of Coldwell Banker here in the Bay Area.

I visited with several agencies and I decided that this company would be the best fit for me. After my experience with Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty, it seemed a little daft to change what is already working for me........

I am still awaiting (with baited breath!) a test date for sitting my examination and I am hoping that I will be up and running in the New Year.

In the meantime, I am enjoying settling in to the company and getting prepared to hit GO!

- Stella Abraham

Have they or haven't they?

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 02:19:00 +0000

There has been so much recent talk about extending the First Time Buyer Tax Credit that even I didn't know who to believe!

It is definite though - there is an extension and some icing on the cake - there has been an incentive created for "Move Up" buyers. So if you have been in your current residence more than 5 years then check out this site for more details......

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/

For all my Silicon Valley friends, there has also been a change to one of the requirements of being a First Time Buyer.....if you are a single taxpayer with an income up to $125,000 and if you are married with an income up to $225,000 you can qualify for the full tax credit. But you have to purchase your home after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 AND it has to be under $800,000 which is cutting it close in Silicon Valley!

If you fancy a chat then please call me at 650 9193190.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

First Time Buyer Credit

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:14:00 +0000

A quick chat about the looming deadline for the First Time

Buyer Credit.

Is it too late to get on the boat? $8000 is a lot of money! If you are in Vermont you are probably still able to do so if you have

the right team behind you.

I will put you in touch with all the right people.

Email me at Stella@StellaAbraham.com or call me for a chat on 650.919.3190

Cheers!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

I miss being able to open a lockbox!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:51:00 +0000

I miss showing property! It is amazing to me how much I miss showing property and being in the Real Estate world! That is when you know you are in the right job......when you can't stop thinking about doing what you love!

I have been spending the last few weeks studying hard for my California Real Estate license. It seems the process of becoming licensed here is going to take a few months :(

I am currently trying to work out who I am going to work out which company would be best to work for now that I have moved back to the Bay Area. I will keep you updated as to where I lay my hat......

One thing I can say is that you really don't realize how good you have it until it is has gone and that is VERY true. I can not rave enough about Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman as a company to work for as well as what service they offer their clients. They really are brilliant.....if you are in Vermont and are thinking of selling or buying a property then let me know.....I have the perfect agent in mind for you!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

An Escape Hatch in Richmond, Vermont?!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:51:00 +0000

My former colleague Meg Handler's listing was talked about on The Today Show this morning......an escape hatch in Richmond? Richmond is not that far away from Burlington! Charming Vermont - what a brilliant and understated phrase

Click here to see the show

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:30:00 +0000

As you know, my husband Euan received an opportunity of a lifetime to work for Apple Computer here in Cupertino, California. He has settled in to his new job over the past few months and I am now here in California ready to start up my real estate business.

I am so appreciative of and grateful for the friendships I made in Vermont and the support that everyone showed me in growing my real estate business. Many showed me the greatest acknowledgment of their trust and confidence by either working with me to buy or sell their home - or by referring a friend, family member, or co-worker.

Within a year of working in Vermont, that support helped me achieve a great honor - to be named the 2009 Northwestern Vermont "Rookie of the Year."

When I decided to return to real estate, I spent a great deal of time researching the local companies. My decision to join Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty was absolutely the right one. CBHB has the resources, innovation, and commitment to serving their clients needs first. They also have a team of talented Realtors who I've learned a great deal from, including someone who has turned in to a very dear friend - Nina Lynn.

Most of you have already met Nina. And for those of you who haven't - get ready for another 6' tall Realtor! She doesn't have the funny accent like I do, but she is a great Realtor with many years of experience! Nina has been a great resource and mentor to me this past year.

So, where does this leave my VT real estate career? This past year has proved to me how I can use the power of technology to stay in touch with many of you and work with you virtually, while my partner Nina finds you the property you need locally.

And how about here in the Bay Area? I am in the process of finding another brilliant company to help support me so that I can grow my business here. I have had 2 weeks holiday and I am already desperate to get back to work!

So watch this space as to which company I end up working with and remember that even if you are thinking of buying or selling property in Kansas........I can help you!

Cheers,

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Belted Cow Bistro

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:11:00 +0000

I had a very yummy dinner.............you know me, I always love good food, wine and of course company.

There is a new restaurant that has opened in Essex Junction called the Belted Cow Bistro. I had the scallops followed by the halibut......delicious!

I would definitely suggest if anyone would like some delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere that they should definitely try this restaurant!

You will be gobsmacked!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Video Walkthrough 65 Conquest Circle, Colchester

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Abraham) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 08:16:00 +0000

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401