Amy Steele Crestline and Lake Arrowhead homes for sale, Crestline SteeleofaLifetime,Crestline REALTOR

Seriously Stupid FHA Appraiser's And The Three S's

Understanding the Mountain Top Addendum for Lake Arrowhead and Crestline, Part 1

Crestline Village's Best Antique Store!

Crestline and Lake Arrowhead Vacation Homes are a Bargain right now!

Unique Horse Property next to national forest in Crestline!

Private Lake Arrowhead Retreat in the Arrowhead Woods!

Part 2: Close and personal with a skunk

The Importance of Maintaining Your Generator in Lake Arrowhead and Crestline

Glowing Testimonial about Crestline Realtor

My Butt is Freezing...and Other Mountain Home Ownership Stories

Crestline/Lake Arrowhead Day Trippin': Cupcake Crazy for "Truly Madly Sweetly" in Temecula!

PolaRotary Bear Plunge in Lake Arrowhead Results!

Regaining Enthusiam for Real Estate and Learning Magic from a Child

Featured Lake Arrowhead Lake View Properties!

Lake Arrowhead's Third Annual PolaRotary Bear Plunge!

Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty REO properties in Lake Arrowhead

Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty Crestline REO properties

I'm Baaaaaaaaack! 2011 Gearin' Up with a New Baby too!

Memorial Weekend in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead

Christmas in April for the Mountain Communities Dinner Auction

A Golden Opportunity In California to Double Dip on Overlapping Homebuyer Tax Credits

OneWest Bank Releases Their First Year Profit Statement $1.6 Billion- You Won't Believe This One!

The Lake Arrowhead Woods market summary for January 2010

Is Congress Working to Create Yet Another Potential Hurdle to Real Estate Recovery?

Rim of the World Parks and Recreation Needs your Help!

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 19:41:33 -0800

Laughing out loud at this great blog from Michael Bolton, an appraiser from Minnesota. I am always asked about FHA requirements and I could not have said it any better than this. Every appraiser is different and each one may call out something different or not call out something that maybe should(or should not!) When looking through homes to purchase using FHA financing, keep this list in mind while looking through homes. If there are any of these 3 S's, FHA may not insure your loan, and you may not be able to close on that particular home.

Take care!

Amy Steele

Via Michael S. Bolton-MN Appraiser (Michael S. Bolton,Inc.):

FHA guidelines state that a house has to meet MPR (minimum property standards) for existing houses, and MPS (minimum property requirements) for new construction. FHA is very concerned with the three S’s: Safety, Security, and Soundness.

When a Realtor was asked what the three FHA S's were, he replied, "Stupid, more stupid, and seriously stupid FHA appraisers," which I thought was pretty funny, however, a little off the mark. The three FHA S's have to do with the following:

Safety:

Per FHA, "Safety refers to the health, habitability and sanitary condition of the property." When determining what is safe and what is not, does involve some subjectivity on the appraiser's part, while other issues are pretty straight forward. Here is a list of the some of the most common safety issues that require correcting:

Any peeling or chipped paint on homes built prior to 1978

Holes in the fire door between the house and garage (doggy doors, missing dead bolts, etc.)

Missing or damaged handrails for full set of stairs.

Improper spacing of balusters for decks and balconies (would allow a child to climb in between the balusters).

2nd level sliding door not secured when there is no deck.

Exposed wiring and/or missing outlet covers.

Missing fire and carbon monoxide detectors.

Missing carpet over a wood sub floor (If carpet is missing over a concrete floor not an issue-FHA considers concrete to be a permanent floor; however, most lenders may want this addressed).

Broken or missing windows.

Some of the more challenging issues is what is considered to be minor deferred maintenance, that which doesn't need to be corrected. The appraiser is still required to note within the appraisal all the deficiencies with the property, thus giving the underwriter the final say. Here are some of the most common deferred maintenance issues that don't require an automatic repair:

Worn, dated, or sagging carpet.

Cracked windows (see detailed explanation).

Minor damaged interior walls or doors.

Minor plumbing leaks.

Shoddy workmanship.

Soundness:

This relates to the structure and structural components of the dwelling. These types of issues will have to be addressed, which they will either have to be repaired or certified by a professional that they're not a problem. Some of the most common structural issues that I've run across are the following:

Foundation problems (shifted and bowed walls, large cracks from settling).

Water damage to walls.

Roof beyond expected life of two years; more than 3 layers of roofing.

Decks not properly built to code.

Additions or basement finishing that wasn't properly built.

Security:

This is the most misunderstood of the three S's. Most assume that if refers to securing the property from the weather, and/or intruders. However, it actually refers to the properties ability to serve as collateral for the FHA insurance fund. The main point here is the marketability of the property to serve as collateral. Here's a list of some of the most common things that I've run into that can affect the marketability of a property is when it's:

Located near HV (high voltage) power lines (see detailed explanation).

Located near a municple sewage treatment plant.

Located near a major freeway or county road.

Located near a hazardous site or landfill.

Located near railroad tracks.

Just because the property is located near any of the above, doesn't automatically make it ineligible for FHA financing; however, the appraiser is going to have to be able to address the marketability of the property. The best way to do this is to find similar sales that were subject to the same type of issue(s). The appraiser would then have to be able to use those comparable sales within the appraisal report to help bracket the property, and at the same time meeting all of the lender's other guidelines and/or overlays.

If you are a real estate professional, mortgage consultant or real estate attorney please subscribe to my blog to get news and updates on residental appraisals, estate planning and tax changes:

If you have any questions, or Minnesota real estate appraisal needs (divorce, bankruptcy, tax appeal, or estate planning) please contact Michael at 612.599-2581, or use the form on the contact page.

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

**Are you looking for a vintage cabin, a home on the water, or just want to upgrade? Whether it be a newer home, fixer or lovingly restored; a Lake Arrowhead golf course home with panoramic fairway views; a lakefront estate with all of the luxury appointments expected therein then you have found the Realtor for your needs! I assist you with my professional experience and technological savvy to get you a great deal on one of our Crestline or Lake Arrowhead resort homes. I watch out for your interests in all transactions and give you reassurance along the way. If tenacity,integrity and trust are attributes you need in your Realtor then rest assured you are in the right place.**

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:31:55 -0800

Understanding the Mountain Top Addendum for Lake Arrowhead and Crestline, Part 1

(AKA Supplement to Residential Purchase Agreement)

When purchasing a mountain property here in Lake Arrowhead and Crestline areas, you get the best of what Southern California has to offer as far as natural beauty, relaxation, and convenience. You will be signing A LOT of paperwork. That’s the reality of purchasing any home in California, and hopefully you have hired yourself a wonderful agent that will walk you through each addendum and supplement and notice(READ: hire Amy Steele).

The Mountain Top Addendum was created to help you understand what living in the Southern California mountains REALLY means. Hopefully you hired a local agent (who lives and works solely in the mountain communities of Lake Arrowhead and Crestline) because as you’re driving around looking at homes to find the right one you are getting an in-depth tour so to speak of the different areas, interesting features of the forests, historical things that happened on this spot sort of information that you won’t get from an agent who’s business and home is down the hill. By hiring a local agent you are going to learn more from them about the homes period, but that is a different blog.

The Mountain Addendum has 38 sections and was written by local Realtors with many years of experience in selling real estate here. In several parts I will go through the document to help you understand more about this important disclosure.

Section 1: Arrowhead Lake Association and Lake Rights

This section explains that Lake Arrowhead is a man-made lake and is private property for the use of the homeowners in the Arrowhead Woods property boundary. You and your guests are allowed to use the lake with your Arrowhead Lake Association membership (see www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com for more information). There are access maps that show the ALA trails and access points along the border of the lake for property owners that do not have lakefront property.

Reserve strips of land around the lake are available for use by all property owners in the ALA and you must carry proof of membership with you at all times on such strips. These strips are above the high water mark and are for park and recreational purposes. There may be restrictions for each property for the use of these strips in old deeds and CC&Rs that date back all the way to 1932. You should read these documents when provided to you by your Realtor from the title company. Bicycles are not allowed on the reserve strips or trails.

WHAT IF I AM NEAR THE LAKE: You are advised that should you choose to NOT purchase Arrowhead Woods property, you are not entitled to use the lake. Period. No fishing, boating, skiing, hiking, putting a toe into the water. I have had people ask if they can fish from the village. I’m sorry but that’s not allowed! This lake is a private club and gives much enjoyment should you choose to purchase here. There are several membership types available to homeowners as well to choose from in case you don’t own a boat and just want to use the beach clubs and hiking trails. Properties in the Arrowhead Villas do not have lake rights.

LAUNCHING A BOAT: The rules for launching a boat can be found at http://www.thelakearrowheadwoods.com/LAKE_RIGHTSUSAGE/page_2101860.html . There is no personal watercraft allowed, which includes jet skis, waverunners, or windsurfing.

LAKEFRONT LOTS: This section also addresses the definition of a Lake Arrowhead lakefront lot. You do not actually own the land down to the water should you purchase a lakefront. The reserve strips are owned by the ALA and should your lot border the reserve strip by a minimum of 10%, then you are considered a lakefront lot.

TENANTS OF ARROWHEAD WOODS OWNERS: Tenants do not have lake rights, only the owners of the property and their guests. Perhaps you will become close to your tenants and you want them as your guests on the lake someday when you come up to use it. That is up to you entirely of course, but remember, you are responsible for your guests when they are on any ALA property!

I hope that you do not see this comprehensive section or document as limiting. It merely explains the rules to you in a black and white manner so you can fully understand what it means to have or not to have lake rights. Owning a home in the Arrowhead Woods is still extremely rewarding because of how gorgeous each area of the lake is and to be able to fully take advantage of Lake Arrowhead is what you want when you are up here. Imagine listening to the birds as they call and fly across the lake and trees in the still morning or evening from your deck or dock. Hanging out on your dock all day, swimming, sunbathing, barbequing with friends and family. Skiing on the lake and breathing in the lake air and pine scent of the warmth of the day. Walking on trails that wind through custom mountain homes, some million dollar properties, others charmers of a smaller price tag and spying a family of raccoons.

No matter your price point there is certainly going to be your dream home to be found amongst the trees. I hope that you allow me to assist you in finding your place here above the clouds but down to earth!

Take care, and there will be more to come with this series. Should you have any questions in the meantime, please email me or call me at the information below.

Amy Steele

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 12:12:12 -0700

Crestline Village's Best Antique Store up here in gorgeous Crestline is by far Remember Me. The shop is located at 23805 Lake Drive int he downtown portion of Crestline Village. Now, I may be more than an objective blogger on this Crestline business, being that I have obtained most of my coolest furniture from this antique store. Every time I drive down Lake Drive into town I slow down to see what they have out in the parking lot today!

The inventory outside of Remember Me is in a constant state of flux and they get new pieces in and sell off others. They always have a treasure out there, as well as inside the store, and you can get some great pieces of furniture and other goodies. I have seen everything from an antique mannequin carved like an old soldier's uniform to an old movie theater popcon maker. They sell some great chairs and tables, as well as beautiful armoires and cabinets.

On the inside of this fun store, you can literally spend hours browsing(and buying) all of the unique things the have in stock as well as discovering items you might not ever have seen before. One time when I went in there with some friends, I found a nice ceramic dish with a steel or aluminum bottom and a nozzle with a cap. The tag called it a child's warming dish. Oh! I hadn't ever seen anything like that before, since after doing some research, learned that these were used to keep children's oatmeal and other cereals warm by putting hot water in the bottom of them. I liked it so much that I bought it then went on Ebay and bought another one to hang on the walls of my kitchen!

They have unique pre-war glass that glows green when you put it under a black light. They have swords and pipes, old tin toys and jewelry, dolls and dishes, and so much more. So when you make a beautiful fall trip to our mountains to enjoy the cooler air and changing leaves, make sure you stop in this treasure trove of a store and remember things of the past!

Take care,

Amy Steele

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:30:56 -0700

Crestline and Lake Arrowhead Vacation Homes are a Bargain right now!

Good evening all,

I was reading through my daily Realtor.com magazine and thought that I would share the news! Apparently the Wall Street Journal is saying that it is a great time to buy a second home in vacation spots. I think they are about a year behind on our Crestline and Lake Arrowhead market, which didn’t make the list from what I can see. Prices are down all over the country of course, we see that in the doom-and-gloom news on a daily basis but if you’re a buyer looking for a second home in a beautiful locale then this is great news.

Crestline and Lake Arrowhead are lake resort communities. Crestline has Lake Gregory, which is a county park and open to all for swimming, fishing, boating(rental boats only) kayaking and sailing. They have waterslides for all ages(yes I’ve been on them many times!) and a new water feature with water fountains and large sculptural flowers that pour and dump water on those waiting below. It truly is a lot of fun. Our one year old son loves the lake and especially loves the new water park. He enjoys watching the other kids and playing with the water. Crestline is a quaint small town community that has restaurants and shops as well as hiking along trails and around Lake Gregory. There is also a dog park and ball fields.

Lake Arrowhead is a private lake and should you have a boat that you want to launch you will have to have a vacation home within the Arrowhead Woods. This private community has several beaches and clubs around the lake to lay out and soak in the sun and trails that run around the lake to take a walk on. Waterskiing, kneeboarding, kayaking and boating are the big draw to Lake Arrowhead. We also have a lot of great high class restaurants, lots of cute mountain shops as well as some outlet shops. There are free concerts at the Village in the summertime and tons of events year round.

These communities have had much activity this year so far with people coming up to purchase a second home since prices are down about 50% from where they were in 2005. There are lake view homes for a steal(Crestline lake view properties), (Lake Arrowhead lake view properties up to $500k)(Lake Arrowhead Luxury lake view over $500k), Lake Arrowhead lake front properties that are just to die for with all of their richness and amenities, and properties that are close to both lakes that you can walk down to enjoy.

We are seeing multiple offers on our homes up here. If the house is priced really great and is in good condition, it’s going to sell within days of coming on the market. I have some buyers who have been outbid now on 5 different homes so we are having a sizzling hot summer! Not in temperature though, our temps are always at least 20 degrees cooler than those down the hill! It’s bee gorgeous up here!

Crestline and Lake Arrowhead are just a stone’s throw away for many regions of southern California so if you have been putting it off, you may want to make your appointments now before prices start to go back up! Come up for the fresh air and relaxation, and to be a part of a community again.

Take care and hope you all have a wonderful evening,

Amy Steele

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 22:58:53 -0700

Hello to everyone. I have decided to post this listing as a reminder to all of you out there that are looking at horse property here in the mountains. This place is in Cedarpines Park in Crestline and is zoned as horse property. This home is awesome! It is a large home at the end of a partial cul-de-sac next to the national forest. How much more secluded and back to nature can you get?

This house is huge with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with an extra room downstairs with a wood burning pot belly stove. There is also a wonderful sunroom with sliders that open for a wonderful solarium. Gaze on your feathered friends from the sunny and open kitchen and dining room and into the valley with its huge trees.

The property also has a guest house with one bedroom and bath with a kitchen and huge living room. These homes have tons of storage and have been upgraded and taken care of very well. The property itself is almost an acre and you get the corrals in the sale for your horses! Please view all of the photo gallery and if you have any desire for the space and seclusion of your own forest estate call me!

Take care,
Amy Steele

Details

Photo Gallery

View Rooms

Crestline (Cedarpines Park)

FOR SALE
$239,000 >Super Great Price!!!

	Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

Amy Steele Email Amy Cell: 951-378-4570 Fax: 909-338-9422
More Photos(15)
Rare Gem of a Property!

	Details


	Address: 161 Mormon Rd Type: Residential Style: 2 Story Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Suite: No Living Area: 2,825 square feet Year Built: 1940 More Details

	Description


	This Cedarpines Park home is a rare gem! This is a unique horse property located directly next to the National Forest! Lovely home has been taken care of & upgraded over the years. All new dual pane windows,new copper plumbing&electrical throughout. Gorgeous sunroom w/sliding doors has fabulous long distance views,as does the spacious kitchen & dining room. You can see down into the valley with so many trees. Watch the songbirds & other native feathered friends up close from the wall of windows overlooking the forest. Separate guest house/MIL quarters w/ own kitchen & 3/4bath. Lots of storage and sheds. RV/Boat/horse trailer parking. Home is located on a kind of cul-de-sac with only a few other homes. Extremely quiet area to enjoy the green and gold of the Crestline area forest. Saddle up the horses and set out from your yard, or take off for a hike from your front door. Nice patios and deck to sit and enjoy the peace and solitude that this wonderful home has to offer. More Description

Brokered and Advertised by Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty LID 31875913

Information is deemed to be correct but not guaranteed.

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 22:10:51 -0700

Good afternoon all! I wanted to share my newest listing.

This gorgeous home is located in the Arrowhead Woods in Lake Arrowhead. This property has lake rights for all of you who want to enjoy the Lake Arrowhead lifestyle to the fullest with boating, hiking, and relaxing on the beaches. Walking up to this private retreat notice the Southern style porch where you can sit sipping on your Sweet Tea and hors d'oeuvres. Once inside relax by the rustic brick fireplace or snuggle in a chair with a good book in the loft.

Beautiful breathtaking views from every single window, but enjoy to their fullest on the spacious deck. Feel like you are in the eagle's nest at the tops of the trees with panoramic views of the forest, Lake Arrowhead golf course, and distant ridgelines. Enjoy sunrises and sunsets! Open main floor living room, loft and kitchen. Downstairs master bedroom is wonderful with a private deck that leads to the yard. This master bathroom is truly spa-like in color and atmosphere. Begin your morning or end your nights in this beautiful spa shower with glass doors and multiple shower sprays. Private water closet and walk-in closet complete this dual sinked bathroom. Guest bedrooms are large and appointed with furniture that comes with the sale.

The yard is slightly terraced and full of natural mountain landscaping. Manzanita, oak, spruce, aspen and vinca cover the ground along with natural rock features. Enjoy the green and gold of the mountains in this yard that still has so many possibilities! Street to street lot and a single car garage with plenty of parking round out this perfect Lake Arrowhead retreat!

Please let me know if you have any questions regarding this home or if you'd love to come up for a visit!

Have a blessed week and take care!
Amy Steele

Details

Photo Gallery

View Rooms

-Lake Arrowhead (Arrowhead Woods)

FOR SALE
$349,000

	Just Look at this Breathtaking View! Feel as like you are in an eagle's aerie!

Amy Steele Email Amy Cell: 951-378-4570 Fax: 909-338-9422
More Photos(15)

	Details


	Address: 26331 Spyglass, Lake Arrowhead, ca Type: Residential Style: Single Story Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Suite: No Living Area: 2,058 square feet Year Built: 1992 More Details

	Description


	Gorgeous turnkey home located in the Arrowhead Woods w/ absolutely breathtaking views! Super quiet area, home feels secluded. Awesome Southern style porch entry feels like summertime while drinking Sweet tea and munching on hors d'oeuvres. Home sold furnished & has cathedral ceiling, brick fireplace in the spacious living room, large kitchen, many windows makes this home bright. Feel like you're perched at the tops of trees from your deck,or private master deck. Spa-like bathroom,dual sinks,step-in shower,walk-in closet. Beautiful views from all bedrooms,large carpetedcloset/storage in guest bedroom. Open loft with distant views to sit and contemplate while playing a game or reading a book. Single car garage w/level entry and tons of parking. More Description

Brokered and Advertised by Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty LID 38563655

Information is deemed to be correct but not guaranteed.

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Fri, 20 May 2011 00:24:36 -0700

Good day all. This is part 2 in my saga of being a homeowner in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead. You can read part 1 at http://activerain.com/blogsview/2177947/my-butt-is-freezing-and-other-mountain-home-ownership-stories.

...After noticing the hole going under the house right by the front door, I get mad. How can I not have ever noticed this hole here before? How could that skunk have dug himself a hole by my main front door without me noticing? We have smelled skunk over the last couple of months but figured he was walking through the yard. And now he was under my house.

How was I supposed to come and go when this smelly new unwelcome tenant could surprise me while carrying my son at any time? I had visions of us getting sprayed and worried about leaving the house. My husband was surprised when I called him. He also hadn’t noticed the hole.

At this point I really wanted to shoot the little sucker but then what if I didn’t just scare him but hurt him enough so that he sprayed me or died under there? I go back inside and start stomping on the floor, rattling the cover on the furnace to see if I could scare him enough to leave. That only scared him further into his hidey hole and he sprayed to protect himself anyways. I got a good whiff of skunk after I did that right by the front door under the kitchen floor. Just the place where you’d want to smell skunk huh?

Having one of the best handymen up here on the mountain as a friend, I called him and begged for help! Fortunately he had just picked up a trap from another home where he relocated that unwelcome tenant.

My husband got home and went under the house where I thought the skunk was. He crawls all over and finally I hear a pop. He doesn’t say a word, then backs out slowly on his stomach. Then pop, pop. I ask what was going on. He doesn’t say anything, then one more pop and he yells “go cover the hole!!! Quick!!!” I begin running back to the front of the house, then stop as I realize it could be coming into the back yard right at me and I am stupidly running towards it. I pick up a large branch. It’s dusk by this time and I got that branch not a moment too soon as I see the shadow of the skunk moving around the corner of the house! I start shouting and waving the branch and beating it on the ground. Thank the good Lord that he turns around and runs out into the front yard. I round the corner slowly and he’s running down the steps towards the front of the house. I throw that branch towards him with all my strength and quickly cover the hole with whatever I can find and then shovel some snow and dirt on top.

In the morning our handyman brings the trap over and sets it up. Guess who we got in there that same night? Mr. Skunk trying to get back into the den.

Lesson learned for all of us that own mountain property in Lake Arrowhead and Crestline. Walk around your home every few days and make sure that there aren’t any dens being created by the local wildlife. Keep your basements closed off to intruders.

It’s mating season for skunks. Can you imagine if we’d had another one plus babies???

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 18:10:23 -0700

The Importance of Maintaining Your Generator in LakeArrowhead and Crestline.

Good day everyone! We’ve had some great snowfall in the last day and a half. We have a sort of lull in the storm right now and there’s blue skies and sunshine! Make sure if you’re coming up here to Lake Arrowhead and Crestline to play in the snow that you carry chains, dress in layers, keep your eyes on the skies, and TAKE YOUR TRASH AND BROKEN SLEDS WITH YOU.

I wanted to write a blog about the importance of maintaining your generator should you use one here in mountains. I was sent this photo of a partial house fire due to a generator. The generator was built in 2003 but the owners didn’t change out the oil from the last time it was used in 2007 during the fires. These LakeArrowhead owners had stayed and when the electricity was cut they depended on their generator to power their home. Because with this last storm there was a ton of snow and a lot of broken power lines due to the branches falling on them, we lost power for about 5 hours. Not to worry, power up the generator! Only unfortunately the oil was too old and it overheated and caused the house to catch fire. The rubber hoses also need to be checked, since they were just tired out or getting old (the hoses coming off the full tank.) The fire Captain said that oil and fuel should be changed every year and rubber hoses need to be changed every other year. The generator should be serviced every year and run every three months for 20 minutes.

Thank the good Lord that they smelled the smoke before any more serious damage was caused to their home, and they only lost part of the side of their home and one bedroom. The smoke damage was only limited to the one room also. They had 4 fire extinguishers because of the size of their home and so were able to get it out before the fire department got there.

Lesson learned the hard way, and I am sharing their story so that you Lake Arrowhead and Crestline residents will remember to have fire extinguishers on hand at your homes, and to check the oil and hoses on your generator should you use one.

Take care, and hope you all continue to weather this nice Spring storm safely.

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:23:09 -0700

Good day all. I generally don't toot my horn but I got a glowing testimonial from a client that just purchased a home here in Crestline. It was a small cabin that had a couple of issues. Nothing major, but putting the deal together was frustrating because of the agent on the other side. Who actually wasn't the agent on the deal he was the go-between myself and the broker who was the agent for the bank. How confusing was that when we finally realized why it was taking so long! In the beginning also the agent uploaded the offer as a non-owner occupied, meaning rental property, when it was owner occupied. That caused us to have to resubmit the entire offer all over again which was pretty frustrating. However, we finally got it done and now I have some more great clients who became neighbors and friends up here in Crestline.

Here is her glowing testimonial and I hope that if I can be of assistance to you when purchasing in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead!

*******************

Amy is one of the BEST agents I have ever dealt with! She is very knowledgeable about things to look out for when house hunting. Every step of the way she was available and there for us. Even though our particular process was very frustrating, she always was upbeat and kept a positive attitude. Even after the sale, she has been a great help, finding service people for us, etc. I would recommend her highly to anyone and I consider her not just our agent, but a friend.
Kerene' Larson

*******************

Take care,

Amy Steele

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:24:03 -0800

My Butt is Freezing, and Other Mountain Homeownership Stories

“My butt is freezing. This bathroom is too stinking cold and we need to fix it!”

Each spring comes with the heralding of warmer weather, and right about that time the project list is taken off of the dusty shelf. This particular project of insulating the bathroom (and I PRAY, putting a heating element in the flooring before we lay new tile) has now been put off for four years.

Yes. Four years.

I can hear you now, you who do not live in colder climates, how cold can your bathroom get? Oh my, we could hang meat in it if we shut the door so no warm air flows in. The bathroom is the last vestige of the basement that doesn’t have insulation. It’s so far under the house that my husband literally cannot crawl under it all of the way to get the insulation onto the ceiling of the basement. Therefore, we will have to put it in from above when we redo the flooring. That particular project has been slow to come to fruition as time and money allow. For a few years we didn’t know exactly what we were going to do with the bathroom either. Now that we do most of the drafts have been foam sealed but still in need of insulation. I have been practically begging my husband for us to be able to put in a floor heating element when we get ready to do the tile since it would drastically warm up the meat locker and we would no longer have to use the space heater each time we go into the room that SHOULD be the most comfortable room, temperature wise.

So for four years each time I have gone into the bathroom in the wintertime when temperatures finally get into the 30s and 20s and snow is falling, I cannot go to my bathroom without a space heater and the wish of not having to freeze my butt off.

Speaking of freezing and posterior ends, the colder temperatures have caused the local wildlife to seek out their winter dens. One such inhabitant was just given his/her walking papers this very evening with a pretty tense eviction. A couple of days ago, I was awoken by the most awful, pungent burnt tire smell in the air. I knew its owner was nearby because of the strength of the smell. It took a couple of hours for my house to have breathable air again (ah, insulation AND a drywall ceiling in the basement would be GREAT). For the next few days the dogs kept going to the bathroom and kitchen as close to the back wall as they could get, and we knew they were sniffing out something.

Well I came face to face with that smell today. The dogs started acting weird and then I smelled it. I walked out the front door and guess who was coming through a crack in my front gate? A skunk.

I started yelling at the dog that had gone outside behind me to go back inside and the skunk turned around like he was going to spray. Oh crap. I yell and bang on the front door and he actually comes up the steps right towards me. I slam the door shut and run upstairs for the air pistol. I was not having a skunk in my yard spraying my dogs (for the third time). My son is playing on the floor wondering why mommy is running around the house like a crazy lady. I went to our back door and bang on it for a minute. I slowly open it just in case but didn’t see any small footprints in the snow so he hadn’t come up that way. I walk cautiously around the yard and no skunk. OK. I go back out front very carefully and that’s when I noticed the hole going under the house….

TO BE CONTINUED...

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

I am a full-time Realtor in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead CA with Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty. I know that you will love our communities too! Contact me today!

FACEBOOK LINK

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 14:05:25 -0800

Good evening all. I know, you're thinking why is a Crestline/Lake Arrowhead mountain top Realtor writing a blog about a place an hour and 15 minutes away from her?

LOL, because this place is AWESOME and I had to share...

I was in Temecula helping my sister do some apartment shopping. I'm so excited that she's moving closer to us since we both have sons who are 3 1/2 weeks apart in age. We went to Temecula Promenademall to hang out and window shop since I hadn't been there in a while. While walking along the new outside promenade I noticed a cupcake bakery. With the new craze going on about cupcakes I've always wanted to go to a cupcakery. One of my favorite shows is "Cupcake Wars," I've sort of got my husband into watching it(from the side, while he's doing something else and I'm watching, but shhhh, don't let him know that I told you). We always comment on how some of the crazy and yummy-sounding cupcake combinations would really be nice to taste. I haven't gone to a cupcakery and this was my chance!!!

Personally, I think that Truly Madly Sweetlyhas a great storefront at the Temecula shop. They are located outside and the shop seems to be down 1234 Mainstreet USA. The interior is cool in temperature feeling almost like an old-time ice cream shop, and smells absolutely heavenly. We walked in and looked at the menu and what they had in the case. Because it was Valentine’s Day, they didn’t have too many choices left, but there were still about 7 varieties of cupcakes too choose from.

I read the descriptions on the small placards in front of each variety and based my decision on those paper cards of wonderment. A great description of something can really make the difference in what you decide to purchase. Just think of a wine that you may not know and the label (never judge a book by it’s cover, blah blah) doesn’t impress you, but if the description of the wine has something on it that reads “this bold wine has strong hints of cinnamon, chocolate, blackberries and espresso with spice tones and full mouthfeel” then you may clamber to purchase it because it has tempted your senses. The same went for me in picking my cupcakes. I have been watching shows where they make cupcakes in so many different flavors I wanted something slightly out of the norm.

I decided on Shannon’s Dream, a “vanilla bean cupcake with toffee bits and chopped pecans folded into the batter filled with butterscotch pastry cream and topped with vanilla bean buttercream,” the PB No J which read “rich chocolate cupcake topped with dense peanut butter frosting and topped with a small peanut butter cookie” and the Triple Blackout which was “devils food cupcake topped with dark chocolate buttercream frosting and then the top was dipped in chocolate ganache”. What a great word: GANACHE...

So I had my three yummy cupcakes but I needed to wait to eat them until I got home to be with the hubs. I wanted this to be OUR experience together! Oh my gosh, they were so flavorful and sweet and moist and just 3 of the best cupcakes I’d ever had in my entire life.

The relevance now, to a Crestline and Lake Arrowhead Realtor telling all of you out there: If you purchase a home in the Lake Arrowhead area with Amy Steele you would be lucky enough to live here in the beautiful (and this evening, rainy and blustery) mountains, by which Temecula is an awesome day trip of an hour and 15 minutes! Really doable and so close!

I’ll be bringing you more reasons to purchase here in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead, please follow my blog using the subscription link.

There is a moral to this story: live life, love much and eat cupcakes from Truly Madly Sweetly anytime you have the opportunity!

Take care and have a great evening!

Amy Steele

(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 23:48:05 -0800

So the results are in and I have to say that everyone that jumped into the lake Saturday for the Lake Arrowhead Rotary

WAS CRAZY!

Ok, so they did it for a great cause and it was actually quite warm out. However the temperature of Lake Arrowhead was still in the low 40s! I am glad that I could be a part of this community that does so much to help up here. Please see my original post at Polarotary Bear Plunge for the full information on the particulars of this event. A lot of people showed up to watch our community leaders and supporters jump into the lake. I came with my son bundled up and stuck him in the kangaroo snugli and he enjoyed watching the crowd.

Um, getting out of that water pretty quickly???

There were a few crazy costumes including an ice cube, pirate, cowboy, half naked mardi gras guy, and a businessman. A businessman isn’t a crazy costume you say. No it’s not but when the man in the suit was our newly elected congressman Tim Donnelly yeah, it was kind of crazy!

Here are some of the pictures that I took. Our fearless leader, broker of Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty Steve Keefe jumped into the lake as a friar, special mead cup and all.

Congressman Tim Donnelly jumped in with District Supervisor Neil Derry and some of their staff.

Quite a few dogs showed up, though this guy was closest to the water in his sweater. I’m sure he would have loved to jump in!

And of course the first ones in the water, the rescue swimmers in case they were needed!

I don’t know, maybe next year I will consider being one of the crazy polar bear jumpers. I generally don’t like to be cold, considering I run my furnace almost non stop in the wintertime so I have a year to consider it!

Warm wishes to all of you,

Amy

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®

(951) 378-4570

Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com

www.CrestlineForeclosures.com

www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 20:17:46 -0800

My broker of Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty in Lake Arrowhead is really big into keeping in touch with his agents as well as consumers, and he is on Facebook. I was Facebook friends with him while I was at another brokerage and when it came time for me to move on I immediately called him because of his Facebook page, in addition to the fact of the prestige of the brokerage.

He has started doing a note a day to all of us, whether it be to keep us motivated or to provide us with insight or information that we may need. I like that I have a broker up to date on all of the modern ways that I find important to keep in contact with clients.

In one of his notes the other day, he was saying that if we ever are feeling down and unmotivated, due to what's going on in our lives to take a new persepective. Remember how motivated we all were as new agents, or in any new career? As agents we had license in hand after calling the DRE license check number probably 30 times a day to see if we passed and then so excited to join a brokerage and get started in our new profession. There was much enthusiasm as a newbie because at the time just getting started we maybe didn't have the many challenges that perhaps we're facing today. I remember spending hours at the brokerage learning all that I could, memorizing contracts and forms, setting up a website, and basically immersing myself in everything real estate related so that I could be better professional.

We need to remember that feeling as a new agent or fresh on any job, how we loved what we were doing and that enthusiasm we felt and try to see our situation from that perspective.

I will take it a step further since I am a new mom and say that we need to try to understand things from a child's perspective. Kids have that magic about them when they are younger. They are full of this magic and a simplicity that we lose as we get older. Ask a child a question about a problem or situation you may be having and see what their answer is. You may gain an insight that you probably would never have thought of since as adults we overcomplicate things with our knowledge and experience. My son is only 6 months old and as yet can't really talk, but I try to put myself in his adorable pajama footsies and see things as he must right now. It's all about discovery and learning, tasting and hearing, playing and laughing. He has such a trust about him that I will do everything he needs to keep him safe and warm and loved. When he has a bad day because his gums hurt him, I try to distract him with fun and entertainment so that he forgets the bad perspective that his mouth doesn't feel good.

As the first month to a new year concludes, maybe challenges have sprung up in your lives that you weren't prepared for or expecting. I suggest we all take a breath from time to time and remember this lesson. Try to regain our enthusiasm again from when we were young and green. I also highly recommend the "giving it to God" approach. With as busy and full as our lives can be, He is the one that can handle it all.

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Take care,

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

steeleofalifetime@gmail.com
www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

*******************All pictures copyrighted by Amy Steele Artistry and may not be used under any circumstances by others without permission. Most pictures are available for reprints as poster sizes. Please email me if you are interested in purchasing a print.*********************************

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 20:45:55 -0800

Good Tuesday evening to you! For those of you who have been looking for that unique property with a gorgeous lake view of Lake Arrowhead, look no further! Here is a current offering of some affordable lakeview properties. These homes are all located in the Arrowhead Woods, which are the properties that allow lake rights usage to Lake Arrowhead. Please don't hesitate to contact me with questions regarding any of these lovely homes. I can provide more pictures and information, as well as email you a list of ALL of the lake view properties currently available in the price range you desire here in Lake Arrowhead. There are currently 35 properties with lake views available under $500,000. For a higher price range please contact me for that list(currently 33 properties with lake views of Lake Arrowhead priced from $501,000 and above).

Take care!

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

***************The above photos are copyrighted by Amy Steele and may not be used under any circumstances whatsoever unless permission is obtained from Amy Steele directly****************

937 Hospital Road, $275,000
3BR/2BA,RELAX AND ENJOY THE NICE LAKEVIEWS. HOME HAS LEVEL ENTRY,LARGE FAMILY ROOM, SEPARATE POOL ROOM, CIRCLE DRIVEWAY, LOTS OF PARKING, CLOSE TO HOSPITAL, MEDICAL CENTER & NATIONAL FOREST WALKING TRAILS.
**************************

27522 North Bay, $325,000
4BR/3.5BA LARGE HOME WITH A LAKEVIEW~ GREAT PRICE! 4 BEDROOMS,PLUS AN UPSTAIRS LOFT OVERLOOKING THE LIVING ROOM. 3 BATHS, FAMILY ROOM WITH FIREPLACE, LARGE GREAT ROOM WITH STEP DOWN LIVING ROOM AND LARGE PROW WINDOWS, PICTURES DO NOT DO THIS HOME JUSTICE, DUAL ACCESS, LEVEL ENTRY, SNOW BLOWER CAN COME WITH THE DEAL ~ PLENTY OF ROOM IN THIS HOME.
**************************

359 Emerald, $329,500
3BR/1.75BA One of a kind double A Frame chalet with a super Lakeview. Almost level access, New roof,deck, all new carpeting and floor covering. Warm living room with tongue and groove wood and gorgeous natural stone fireplace to warm up by on cold snowy evenings. Family room area, but never completed. Extra lot available. Complete privacy!
**************************

28749 Zion, $349,000
3BR/3BA JUST BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH TO THIS CHARMING FURNISHED HOME WITH BEAUTIFUL LAKE ARROWHEAD AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS. LIVING ROOM, WITH COZY BRICK FIREPLACE, OPENS TO SPACIOUS NEW WRAP-AROUND DECKS. HUGE FAMILY/GAME ROOM, FULL BATH & LAUNDRY ROOM WITH SEPARATE ENTRY. ONE BEDROOM ON MAIN LEVEL WITH FULL BATH. UPSTAIRS THERE TWO LARGE BEDROOMS WITH HIGH BEAMED CEILINGS, EACH HAS ITS OWN BALCONY, AND A FULL BATH. METICULOUSLY CARED FOR AND READY TO MOVE IN.
***********************

28929 Mammoth, $399,000
4BR/3.5BA BREATHTAKING LAKE ARROWHEAD LAKE VIEWS! VERY LARGE HOME WITH 180 DEGREE LAKE VIEW. PRIVATE DRIVE, EXTRA LARGE 3 CAR GARAGE,TONS OF PARKING. SOME COSMETIC UPDATING WOULD MAKE IT A REAL SHOWPLACE. SMALL KITCHEN IN FAMILY ROOM W/GAS STOVE, SOME GAS WALL HEATERS IN CASE OF POWER OUTAGES. AC TOO! TAVERN BAY DOCK AVAILABLE FOR EXTRA.
***********************

1281 Yellowstone DR, $399,000
3BR/2.5BA WONDERFUL LAKEVIEW PROW HOE WITH A SEPARATE BONUS ROOM/OFFICE OVER THE GARAGE, LARGE FAMILY ROOM, 2 FIREPLACES, LIGHT & BRIGHT, TONGUE AND GROOVE THROUGHOUT, LOTS OF STORAGE, CEILING FANS & ALL LANDSCAPED FOR NICE SECLUSION. DOCK IS AVAILABLE FOR EXTRA $$. ENTER SHORT DRIVEWAY ACCESS @ 1275 YELLOWSTONE & 1ST DRIVEWAY ON LEFT SIDE.
*************************

27771 St. Bernard Dr, $449,000
3BR/3.5 BA NEW ROOF. PANORAMIC VIEW. GREAT FULL OR PART TIME HOME. ALL ROOMS LARGER THAN AVERAGE, ESPECIALLY BEDROOMS. MASTER ON MAIN. LEVEL ENTRY. CATHEDRAL CEILING IN LIVING ROOM. KITCHEN HAS DINING BAY & OPEN TO LIVING ROOM. VERY LARGE TREX DECK. LARGE FLAT YARD,RARE FOR THE MOUNTAINS! ALL BEDROOMS HAVE WALK-IN CLOSETS.
************************

27879 West Shore, $495,000
4BR/2BA First Tier Lake Arrowhead lake view home! Single Slip Dock for addl'$$$ w/Ez Access below.Large sunny lot~accessible.Multiple car parking area,level from street:few steps to front door. Newer comp.roof. Dual pane windows.Beautiful tan/brown river rock fireplace. Separate dining. Huge open living/great room with windows across entire back wall facing lake.Nice ridge line views also. 2 Bedrms main level.Good sized lot,accessible,path to North Shore below.Sunny.Perfect Lake Arrowhead package!!
********************

27582 West Shore, $497,000
3BR/3BA Fabulous LAKE VIEW from 2 stories, loft and living room. A prow with wrap around deck. Family Room, Pool/Game Room. Concrete drive up from W Shore or enter off N Bay access rd for level entry. Access Rd is nice quiet play area.Large Living Room,Dining view of lake too. Cathedral ceiling gives loft a view too. A full bath on each level. Family room with brick fireplace is expecially nice. Pine hardwood paneling throughout the home. 1/2 Double Dock - Trex-available for $85k. ALA access across Street.
***********************

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 19:54:01 -0800

It's that time of year again when the Lake Arrowhead Rotary Club has their crazy fun-draiser to help raise money for local youth programs here on the mountain. This year's plunge takes place next Sat February 5th at 10am. The place for the frigid plunge is the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa at the beach.

If you decide you are brave enough to go jump in the lake, this year they're having a costume contest and the person with the best costume gets a prize. Jumpers get the privilege of bragging rights of course, but also the luxury of warming back up in the Resorts' outdoor hot tubs and with hot soup provided by Casual Elegance restaurant.

The Resort will provide towels and changing rooms for you to prepare your body and soul to jump in the lake,

current temperature degrees.

Yes, you read that right!

But it's for a worthy cause, so make sure you get whatever donations you can from your friends and family who I'm sure may have wanted to tell you to go jump in a lake a time or two, and now they're paying you to do so! Rub elbows with our community leaders and other like-minded souls who do so much for the Lake Arrowhead communities.

So make sure you come on out for the fun of raising money and jumping in a really cold lake, or come out to watch others crazy enough to do so! If you can't make it out then consider donating via the Lake Arrowhead Rotary Club's website. Should be a sunny 56 degrees on Saturday up here in the mountains!

Take care, and as always if you have real estate needs in Lake Arrowhead or elsewhere on the mountain, please contact me!

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:17:48 -0800

Good afternoon,

Here are this week's Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty foreclosures in Lake Arrowhead, specifically in the Arrowhead woods. The Arrowhead Woods are properties around the lake that have lake rights usage of Lake Arrowhead and the Arrowhead Lake Association trails and beaches. Please contact me if you have any questions regarding these properties, and if you would like to make an appointment to come up and view any of them. We are having some nice Spring-like weather, with a chill to the air, but it's sunny and gorgeous. If you want all of the other REO properties sent to your email please send me an email at steeleofalifetime@gmail.com or call or text me at 951-378-4570 and I will get you set up to receive all properties that are bank owned up here in Lake Arrowhead.

If you are interested in bank owned homes in Crestline, please click here for that blog with all Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty REO properties.

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

*****NEW THIS WEEK*****

317 Spruce - Arrowhead Woods, $249,000
3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Living room with rock fireplace. Master bedroom with bath with claw-leg tub. Attached one car garage. Close to the lake. Lake Rights!
MLS# 2110064
************************

MLS# 2110072
308 Grass Valley - Arrowhead Woods, $280,000
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Massive great room with lots of windows. Two bedrooms and bath on the main level. Upper level has bedroom and loft. Lower level has family room, bonus room, and bathroom. 2028 square feet on the house and on a 14,000 sq ft lot!!! Lake Rights!
**************************

AVAILABLE

MLS# 2102122

26818 Huron - Arrowhead Woods, $190,000
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Living room with fireplace. Bedroom and bath on the main. Nice secluded spot nestled in the trees. Lake Rights!
***********************

MLS# 2101775
1399 Regina - Arrowhead Woods, $260,000
3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Living room with fireplace. Extra large dining room that could be used as a family room. Two car attached garage. Seasonal stream and vinyl siding. Lake Rights!
*******************************

MLS#: 2101881
236 Grass Valley Road--Arrowhead Woods, $279,000
EASY ACCESS TO THIS HOME WITH A 3 CAR GARAGE AND PLENTY OF PARKING. ROOM FOR A GYM HUGE WORKSHOP DOWNSTAIRS BELOW GARAGE. MASTER ON MAIN LEVEL. HOME IS IN GOOD CONDITION. GREAT LOCATION FOR A COMMUTER. 2851 sq feet on the house and 11,000 sq ft on the lot.
************************

ML#: 2102003
1253 Montreal Dr, Arrowhead Woods, $309,900
3 BR, 2.5 BA VERY NICE, NEWER HOME WITH LEVEL ENTRY AND A 2 CAR GARAGE. Nice views from the deck.
**************************

226 Fairway - Arrowhead Woods
3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Living room with fireplace Master bedroom with fireplace. Built in 2003. Two car attached garage. Kitchen with granite counters. Nice views. Lake Rights!

27775 Matterhorn - Arrowhead Woods
3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Level entry with 2 car garage. Has 2 fireplaces. Master bedroom on the main. Lake view. Lake Rights!

27323 Peninsula - Arrowhead Woods
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Living room with fireplace. Family room with fireplace. Secluded spot. Lake Rights!

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:07:43 -0800

Good afternoon,

Here are this weeks Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty foreclosures in Crestline. Please contact me if you have any questions regarding these properties, and if you would like to make an appointment to come up and view any of them. We are having some nice Spring-like weather, with a chill to the air, but it's sunny and gorgeous. If you want all of the other REO properties sent to your email please send me an email at steeleofalifetime@gmail.com or call or text me at 951-378-4570 and I will get you set up to receive all properties that are bank owned up here in Crestline.

If you are interested in bank owned homes in Lake Arrowhead, please click here for that blog with all Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty REO properties.

Take care,

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty
www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

MLS# 2110057
368 Dorn - Crestline, $144,400
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Built in 2005. Living room with wood burning
stove. Nice views in San Moritz,quiet area. Granite counters,jetted tub,1582 square feet.
*****************************

MLS# 2101771
250 Zermatt - Crestline, $131,000
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Living room with fireplace. Updated kitchen and separate family room. Nice views with a peek of Lake Gregory.
******************************

MLS# 2101496
782 N. Village Lane - Crestline
3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths. Large living room with fireplace. Oversized carport and loads of parking. Lots of storage. Excellent commuter location. UNDER AUCTION STATUS
******************************

MLS#: 2102236
880 High Rd, Crestline
2 BR 2 Bath, slight fixer. Lots of parking, nice area close to town and commuter friendly.
*************************

MLS# 2102022
21993 Mojave River - Cedar Pines Park
2 bedrooms and 2 baths. Living room with corner wood burning stove. All on one level.,beautiful views,quiet area close to national forest. Detached storage shed. UNDER AUCTION STATUS
*************************

24948 Faulhorn - Crestline
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Near level entry. Living room with fireplace. Bedroom and bathroom on the main level. Seasonal stream behind the house. San Moritz area

408 Hartman - Cedar Pines Park
4 bedrooms and 2 baths. Fenced back yard.

23975 Canyon View - Crestline
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Living room with fireplace. Attached 2 car garage. Located in Mile High Park.

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:29:02 -0800

Hello to all my subscribers and readers alike who may have missed me over the last 7 months. I haven't been blogging since my 7th month of pregnancy and most certainly haven't found the time while caring for my son full time so far for the first nearly 6 months of his life. I did work up to the day I went into labor, having a home inspection where I was really only able to sit on the couch the whole time since it was July and I was about ready to pop(LOL, hindsight and all that...) I also, um, was texting and trying to email while I was IN labor. My husband basically had to RIP the phone from my hands exclaiming "Give me a break! You're in LABOR. They will understand if you don't get back to them!" Well honey, no, I had to submit an offer that couldn't wait (15 hours of labor, you never know if the property would still be on the market by then!) and had to tell some clients that I was in labor and couldn't show them properties that day so it was important to get someone else to show them!!!!

It all worked out great and we have a gorgeous healthy son. The learning curve with having a child is pretty steep, particularly when you are career-obsessed as I am trying to stay on top of your emails and clients after so many years of hard work building your business up. Suddenly diapers and feedings and TONS of loving and cuddling with my newborn took precedence first and the computer had to wait. I did open 2 escrows the first month post-baby, closed 2 more and attended home inspections and walkthroughs with my son in a moby wrap. I went to the office a few times to work on files but he wasn't always sleeping and I felt bad if he was disturbing my colleagues so I started doing files from home(THANKS KARI YOU ROCK...)I also got pretty decent at typing one-handed while keeping my son from drooling on the keyboard or pulling everything off of the desk onto the floor. Wow, just took me about 2 minutes to write that last sentence:squirmy baby alert! Time for an exersaucer...

OK, I'm back. All in all I LOVE being a mommy and I wouldn't change it for the world. I love that the Lord has been bringing me uber-cool clients also that love children and have children and so little man has shown a lot of property as well as gone to a listing appointment. He's very well behaved(even with starting to teethe now) and just loves to meet new people and see new places. I am prepping him early to take over the family empire when he's of age(LOL, well that's the goal at least!) He makes the days so much more full, even if they are longer and more planned out with diaper bag essentials, bottles, jars of food, diaper change stops, feeding stops and have to squeeze in some playtime( all work and no play, you know!). He's made my life more full and really caused me to begin changing and adding to my business to make it easier to stay in contact with people and to have more systems in place so that I don't forget someone. I have to now plan to the minute practically my entire day and that's been a positive change for me.

I am still gearing up for 2011, since I am behind the curve a little bit taking care of my little man full time, and I hope to get my exciting changes made in the next month, making good use of the little time I have left to me for myself(wow, hobbies, um what hobbies?) I hope that you all have a great 2011 and beyond!

Take care,

Amy

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Thu, 27 May 2010 20:48:29 -0700

Hello all you fellow mountain lovers! This Memorial weekend in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead promises to hold a lot of activity for you adventurers!

In the Crestline area on Saturday the Crestline Library is holding their annual Memorial Weekend Book Sale in the parking lot, beginning at8am. My husband and I go to this yearly and generally spend about $50 and get about 120 books. Make sure you arrive early to get the good ones. You will also be supporting the construction of our new library over on Lake Gregory Dr by Lake Gregory and the Crestline Skate Park. Make sure you take a peek at the outside; it looks to be coming along quite nicely! The Lake Arrowhead library in Blue Jay Village will also be holding their annual Memorial Book Sale. This sale begins at 7am and ends at 5 so also get their early for the best pick in books!

This weekend in Crestline the main event: Lake Gregory opens for the season! Bring the family and laze around the lake on the beach or on a paddle board. The water slides are fun for all ages(yes, I go on the water slides!)and there are people watching opportunities galore! The beach area has a snack bar in case you get the munchies, but you can also go across the street to Tony's Mexican restaurant and enjoy a wine margarita or beer and some fabulous food. Or just bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it at beautiful Lake Gregory! Don't forget to walk around the trail for a truly breathtaking time. Many starting points around the lake and it's a good 2 1/2 miles around.

The Rocky Horror Picture show will be at the Crestline Theater (next to Arrowhead Credit union and Billy Bears Restaurant) throughout the summer every Saturday night beginning at midnight.

Memorial Weekendbeing the kick off of summer here in the mountains, there is a mountain-wide garage sale! Us mountain folk have cleaned out our homes, garages, and closets and it's for sale to you bargain hunters! Make sure you pick up a Mountain News or Crestline Courier for a local map of many of the sales, or you can just follow the signs. Garage sales abound in Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs, so bring up your cash and leave with some bargains!

The main event in Lake Arrowhead this Memorial Weekend is of course the free Summer Concert Series!On Saturday beginning at 5:30 the Inland Empire Swing Orchestra will be rockin' it out with swing, big band and jazz music. There's over a dozen musicians in the orchestra playing music from the Roaring 20s through to the rockin' 50s. On Sunday at 5:30 the Fantastic Diamond, Neil Diamond tribute band will be center stage with all the favorites and hits of Neil Diamond. Monday promises some 60s surf and hot rod music with the Craig Dooley Surf n'Turf band. Show begins at 12:30. Come on out and enjoy great music under the stars!

In Lake Arrowhead on Friday night is Family Movie night in Lake Arrowhead village. Beginning at dusk, they will be playing "The Great Outdoors" at Center Stage. Bring chairs and blankets and enjoy a film under the stars.

The Wildhaven Ranch will be having their annual Memorial Weekend Barn Sale. The barn sale will take place from 8:00am to 5:00pm on Saturday and Sunday. Wildlife tours both days will begin at 1:00pm for $10.00 per person, and purchases at the sale will count towards discounts for tour prices.

Also in the Lake Arrowhead Village is the Farmer's market from 4-8pm. Make sure you come support local farmers and merchants with fresh fruits and veggies!

Just outside of Lake Arrowheadin Skyforest on Highway 18 will be the Heaps Peak Arboretum Annual Plant sale. This sale is only Saturday, May 29 and starts at 9am! Come and buy plants that are drought-tolerant and native to the local mountains and will grow great in your gardens! Make sure to come early for the best selection!

So you see, there's a ton of stuff to do up here besides hiking, camping, and of course falling in love with our mountain. If you do fall in love this weekend and want to pursue looking at vacation homes or full time homes, make sure to give Amy Steele a call. I am with the Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty in Blue Jay and Lake Arrowhead. I'd love to help you find a piece of your forest to claim as your own!

Take care and I hope that you all have a safe and blessed Memorial Weekend.

Amy Steele
www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
DRE Lic# 01492418

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:56:00 -0700

Good morning! Christmas in April dinner and auction is coming this Friday April 16th. This event supports the Rebuilding Together Mountain Communities chapter that helps our local citizens with home projects to help make their homes safe and warm and dry. The Rebuilding Together chapter has a day every April where they go out to low income families and homeowners who are disabled or elderly and desperately need help with home improvement projects to keep their homes habitable. Their goals as stated on their website are :

1) To improve quality of life for our elderly and/or disabled citizens, 2) To create an avenue of service for our community members at large, and 3) To help restore and beautify each mountain community where we live and work. In the past 15 years, our volunteers have refurbished over 200 homes and completed emergency repairs on many more, in addition to several community service facilities in our San Bernardino Mountain Communities.

The Christmas in April dinner and auction is a major fundraiser for these projects. This year's event is April 16th at 5:30 pm at the Lake Arrowhead Country Club in Lake Arrowhead. They serve a prime rib dinner to attendees and each year promises to be a fun and rewarding time. Tickets are very inexpensive at only $25. To purchase tickets which usually sell out each year call 909-337-2441. Donations are still being taken for auction items. If you have a business that can donate goods or services, or if you know of a business that you can proposition for donations, please contact myself at 909-336-7942 or Carol Banner at 909-336-7917.

Take care and hope to see you there!

Amy Steele
REALTOR DRE # 01492418
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty
951-378-4570
www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 09:59:11 -0700

THis post speaks of the newly approved first time homebuyer's credit that the state of California is doing now. For a limited time you will be able to claim up to $18,000! Read below for more details!

Via Janet Guilbault California Mortgage Banker/Broker:

If EVER there was a reason to get off the fence and BUY YOUR HOUSE in California, this is it. We're talking a once in a lifetime, 24 karat golden opportunity to have the government subsidize your home purchase for up to $18000 in tax credits.

But the window of opportunity is EVER so brief if you are going to attempt to double dip and get both the state and the federal tax credits.

Here's how the double dip works: The federal home buyer tax credit for first time buyers states you must be in contract to buy your house by April 30th and close before June 30th to be eligible for the credit.

But a newly enacted California stimulus for home buyers actually OVERLAPS the federal first time home buyer tax credit!

You can also receive $10,000 in tax credits as a first time buyer, from the State of California for transactions that CLOSE after May 1.

If you have followed me so far (and there are 18,000 reasons to pay attention and follow) you have probably figured this out:

By being in a RATIFIED CONTRACT before April 30, you can qualify for the $8000 first time homebuyer tax credit from the Federal government (as long as it closes by June 30)

By CLOSING that RATIFIED CONTRACT after May 1, you can qualify for the $10,000 first time homebuyer tax credit from the State of California.

ADVICE:

Already in contract and set to close at the end of April? A delay of close until May 3 will not endear you to your Realtor or to your seller, but could qualify you for $10,000 in tax goodies (May 1 and 2 are a weekend).

If you are NOT already in a contract, you are going to need to contact a mortgage professional and get thoroughly pre-approved NOW. Make sure closing the loan before June 30th will be possible based on your situation. (60 days is NOT unreasonable for most loans).

Once preapproved, seek out a great Realtor who knows the ropes, will work FAST, and will work as a team with your chosen mortgage professsional.

Disclaimers: As a mortgage professional, I am not qualified to give tax advice. Please consult your tax advisor. Be aware there are income limitations on the federal tax return, and there could be other factors that limit your ability to receive the tax credits.

For more information, a speedy preapproval, or a referral to a great Realtor, call me at 925-552-3867.

$10,000 California tax credit

$8,000 Federal tax credit

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 10:00:39 -0800

We need to be telling our elected officials that this type of stuff isn't going to stand anymore.

Via Robert G Hertzog (Summit Home Consultants):

OneWest Bank Releases Their First Year Profit Statement $1.6 Billion- You Won't Believe This One!

Kudos to Scott Reckard with the LA Times. He wrote an article today that is sure to open some eyes. The article, titled "OneWest Bank Profit: $1.6 Billion" does an excellent job of pointing out some very interesting observations.

According to the article, OneWest paid the FDIC $1.55 Billion for the failed IndyMac Bank, and turned a profit of $1.57 Billion in it's first year. The article specifically addresses the shared-loss agreement that was also put in place by the FDIC, which is expected to cost the FDIC nearly $11 Billion.

The reason I'm posting this article is that it dovetails perfectly into my blog titled "Is The FDIC Killing OneWest IndyMac Short Sales" in September/2009. The blog, which ended up being the basis of the recent video produced by Think Big Work Small (without my knowledge or consent, by the way) deals with a transaction I handled for one of my clients with OneWest Bank. Rather than go into all of the details of the blog you can read it here. But basically, it centered on shared-loss deals, and how they are creating a disadvantage for consumers trying to accomplish loan modifications or short sales.

The FDIC was so upset with the video that they decided to issue an official press release on Friday, February 12th. The LA Times article specifically states that the FDIC refused to comment today on the profit statement released by OneWest today.

So let me get this straight... The FDIC issues an official press release on a YouTube video, but doesn't want to talk to anyone about the profits OneWest just reported today, and the possible effects of the shared loss agreement they have in place with them? Interesting. Anyway, enjoy the article. This story is beginning to "grow legs", as they say. With 93 other loss share agreements in place, according to a recent Business Journal article, I'm sure this is something we will all hear more about in the very near future.

Oops, I spoke to soon! While writing this article, I just found out that the FDIC just issued ANOTHER press release, this time announcing that they just sold La Jolla Bank in La Jolla, CA to, guess who? You got it, OneWest Bank! And guess what? That's right, they signed yet another Loss Share Agreement with them as well. Well, that makes a total of 95 loss share agreements, and counting!

Folks, it's time to stop this madness. The LA Times article shows what this program is costing the American Taxpayer. Some, like the FDIC (and their banker buddies) will tell us time and time again that the FDIC receives no taxpayer dollars, and is funded wholly by the FDIC premiums charged to the banks. Think about it... When banks have to pay more for increased premiums, where do you think they get the money? Quite simply, they raise their rates to YOU, the consumer, to cover these additional expenses. And, when they finally run out of money, they have a nice little $500 Billion "Credit Card" they can use at the U.S. Treasury. Where do you think this money comes from? Correct... YOU, the taxpayer.

So do your part and help spread the word. It's time to stop asking questions, and start demanding answers from our fearless leaders in Washington. Don't just read this and get mad. Read this and share it with all you know.

Bob Hertzog

www.foreclosureuturn.com

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:15:04 -0800

Good day all. I know that it's a little past January to be posting this market summary of solds for the month of January. It seems that with as busy as it's been so far this year that time can get away from us quickly and then it's halfway into February. I hope you can forgive me, and know that I will be more dilligent in the future. There was plenty of activity this last month of January in the Arrowhead Woods, where buyers aplenty were looking for lake rights properties to use Lake Arrowhead.

26 properties sold in January. Out of those 26, 8 were bank owned REO properties, 3 were short sales, and the rest were standard sales. That speaks pretty highly of our market still doing good here in Lake Arrowhead. There are a lot of REO properties that are great deals up here, but the most sales are standard seller-owned properties. With the weather having been quite nice in January there have been a lot of buyers out and about. Sure we got our share of snow, but that didn't always stop folks from coming up here! Unless there's a full snow storm, which I don't recommend property showings in that type of weather, everyone loves to come and play in the snow while looking for a new home!

Are you interested in searching for a vacation home or full time residence here in the Lake Arrowhead Woods? Please give me a call or drop me an email, and I can set you up with new listings directly to your inbox!

Take care,

Amy Steele
DRE#01492418
951-378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty
Blue Jay and Lake Arrowhead

www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com

Address

Sold price

BR/BA

Year Built

Sq Ft

Lot Size

DOM

Type of Sale

26446

STATE HWY 189

$85,000

2/1.00

1982

62/62

REO

211

sunset

152,000

2/1.0

1951

SPAY

366

Annandale DR

$170,000

3/2.00

1973

1,228

9,000

100/100

STD

27770

Bay RD

$173,000

3/2.00

1978

1,904

10,610

120/120

REO

28762

SYCAMORE DR

$203,000

3/2.00

1969

1,160

25,000

STD

26535

Walnut Hills

$225,000

3/2.0

1983

309

STD

263

Cumberland DR

$230,000

3/2.00

1971

1,277

9,750

42/42

STD

26669

THUNDERBIRD

$340,000

5/5.00

1969

4,000

18,900

276

SPAY

1039

Grass Valley Rd

$345,000

4/3.0

1979

405

STD

28927

Potomac

354,500

3/2.5

1995

105

STD

27314

Pinewood DR

$390,000

3/3.00

2007

130/130

STD

765

Del Norte

$390,000

4/2.5

2005

SPAY

1352

Calgary

$395,000

4/3.5

1989

203

STD

28738

Bryce

$398,000

4/4.0

1989

145

STD

28837

Sycamore LN

$400,000

5/5.00

1987

3,522

19,280

96/96

REO

1282

Montreal DR

$405,000

3/2.00

2000

2,900

12,990

REO

344

Castle Gate RD

$426,900

3/3.00

1937

2,008

8,212

REO

28646

Brigadoon CT

$440,000

4/3.00

1984

3,076

71,298

55/55

REO

28825

Manitoba DR

$445,000

3/3.00

2004

2,046

9,832

177/177

STD

28919

Mammoth

$470,000

4/3.0

1969

117

STD

695

San Benito

$475,000

4/2.5

2008

526

STD

27354

Cottonwood LN

$480,000

4/4.00

2000

3,364

11,249

63/63

REO

148

John Muir RD

$615,000

4/3.00

1979

1,621

4,510

80/80

REO

872

Rhine RD

$700,000

4/4.00

2008

3,660

14,550

54/54

STD

27721

Hamiltair

$1,100,000

4/3.0

1964

182

STD

27681

West Shore RD

$1,487,500

4/3.00

2003

88/88

STD

Type of Sale Key: REO=bank owned, STD=standard sale, SPAY=short pay

The data below are taken from the MRMLS and the RIM MLS systems. Not all lot sizes and square footages are available. Agent and brokerage not responsible for any inaccuracies in data due to being taken from a secondary source.

PICTURE COPYRIGHT BY AMY STEELE AND MAY NOT BE USED WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM ARTIST

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 10:27:01 -0800

Bringing you more information about what Congress and the government are doing to further hurt the real estate market. Jason Crouch gives this good post on what they are trying to do to your local mortgage broker. I use local mortgage brokers in my business. I strongly advise my buyers to also, since they are HERE in the area, you can meet with them face to face, you will get a call back, an email will not go unanswered, and you will get the truth straight up. I know where the local guys live and work and because of our small community, you want someone local on your side. If banks and Congress take away mortgage brokers' ability to make a living, then you as the consumer will have to be stuck with using a non-personal big box bank. You will not have much of a choice in who you use and may not be able to have access to good viable programs that fit you personally that mortgage brokers can have access to.

Take note. Non-competition only hurts our market!

Via Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC):

To preface this post, I should probably state that it's not strictly political in nature. For those of you who read my blog regularly, you know that I don't often write about politics, and I don't strictly define myself as a Democrat OR a Republican. However, I do think and hope there's a bit of self-preservation in all of us. Call it instinct. This issue I will write about here has the potential to further damage our industry, so I felt compelled to air it for discussion/action. My ideas are my own, and I don't claim any level of economic expertise other than my business degree and my own experience running a small business since 1996. Now that we have that out of the way, read on...

Not long ago, President Obama gave his State of the Union address. At one point, he was talking about regulating the banking industry and the rest of the financial sector. There was an irony that I saw there, when it occurred to me that in their zeal to do something about the financial mess which they likely helped to create, Congress is now looking at the possibility of passing measures that could further damage the housing and mortgage industries.

Over-regulation probably won't solve our problems, at least not as I see it.

So, what am I referring to here, anyway?

Well, I had lunch with a good friend of mine not too long ago, and he brought to my attention that a number of Senate Democrats recently sent a letter to the Federal Reserve Chairman, Ben Bernanke (on Christmas Eve, no less), urging him to adopt new regulations which would ban yield spread premiums for mortgage brokers. The letter was headed up by Sen. Merkley, and it was co-signed by about 18 other Democrats. To read it yourself, visit https://www.namb.org/images/namb/GovernmentAffairs/Senate%20Letter%20to%20Fed-YSP%2012242009.pdf. The National Association of Mortgage Brokers has been working overtime to keep their members informed on this.

If you aren't familiar with yield spread premiums, or YSP's, here's one definition from Wikipedia, "the money or rebate paid to a mortgage broker for giving a borrower a higher interest rate on a loan in exchange for lower up front costs." This means that YSPs can often help to defray costs for buyers. I won't claim to understand all of the requirements therein, and it won't really matter for the purposes of this post.

I did take some time to read through the actual regulations that they are considering instituting, and some of the language there was disturbing to me:
To address the concerns related to loan originator compensation, 
the Board proposes to prohibit payments to loan originators that are 
based on the loan's terms and conditions. This prohibition would not 
apply to payments that consumers make directly to loan originators. 

The Board solicits comment on an alternative that would allow loan 
originators to receive payments that are based on the principal loan 
amount, which is a common practice today. 

If a consumer directly pays the loan originator, the proposal would prohibit the loan originator 
from also receiving compensation from any other party in connection 
with that transaction.
Since the Board is soliciting comment on this, I would be happy to oblige.

Why does this proposal bother me as a real estate broker?

Well, it seems to me that this hinders the free enterprise system as it exists now. By removing YSPs completely, you will effectively remove yet another viable option for consumers who are short on cash. Over the past few years, we've all watched helplessly as mortgage options for Joe Average have dwindled. Truthfully, the loan approval process was too loose before. I get that, believe me. There were people who got approved for loans who were truly risky propositions. However, I've seen the pendulum swing too far in the other direction now. I have told many friends and potential clients that roughly 1/2 of the marketplace was vaporized with the tightening of the credit markets and tougher loan guidelines. For every 10 home buyers that I could assist before, I now have 5 or 6. I hear the same thing from my colleagues across the country.

The subprime mortgage crisis was certainly part of the problem, and it did seem like all you really needed was the ability to fog a mirror and you could buy a home. That being said, the removal of subprime, most zero-down programs, stated-income loan products for self-employed individuals has made being a Realtor or a mortgage broker a very tough job indeed.

None of us could ever have foreseen how different our world could become in a couple of short years. Fear has replaced reason when it comes to the world of banking. Melodramatic? Not really. I am trying to feed a family of six with my income. Thankfully, I've survived some difficult years, and, along with most people I speak with these days, I am hoping to see a sincere turnaround. This proposal won't help.

Another concern that I saw in the language is that this lays the groundwork for the government to step into the real estate arena as well, perhaps prohibiting OUR commission from being tied to the sales price of a property. Again, I see this as inhibiting the free market.

On the surface, I see how this could be perceived as helping consumers, but the more likely scenario is that mortgage brokers will now have two paths to choose from:

Charge a lot more directly to consumers to originate loans, since they can't get paid by banks, or

Go out of business

Clearly, neither of these outcomes would be beneficial for any of us.

In fairness, there are some other parts of the proposal that make sense to me, mainly with regard to consumer disclosures, but this portion would be foolish. You can see the whole thing here if you're interested: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-18119.htm

It's my understanding that the Federal Reserve already has the authority to monitor and regulate mortgage brokers, so any legislative action would be overkill and probably just plain unnecessary.

From my own research, I was happy to see that this issue wasn't split strictly along party lines, unlike so many other things we hear about from Washington. Although none of the Republicans on the Senate Banking Committee signed the letter, I was pleasantly surprised to find that a handful of Democrats also abstained. Kudos to Johnson of South Dakota, Benett of Colorado, and Tester of Montana for not just toeing the party line here. I applaud the members of the committee who didn't sign this pressure letter. You can see a list of all the members here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Senate_Committee_on_Banking,_Housing,_and_Urban_Affairs

I'm hoping that the highly paid lobbyists for the financial institutions that actually caused the problem don't manage to shift the blame to the little guys. While there were certainly predatory lenders that played a part in creating the mortgage crisis, most of these people are just business owners who are trying to provide an honest service and get paid for their work.
If this bothers you as much as it does me, I would encourage you to contact the members of the committee and let them know, especially if any of them are in your home state.

I welcome your input. :)

If you enjoyed this post, why not connect with me elsewhere?

If you're looking for a home in the Austin area, you can visit my primary Austin real estate website at www.austintexashomes.com. Thanks!

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418

Quick Links

Virtual Tour

Request More Info

Email Listing

More Photos(15)

Amy Steele (Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:27:06 -0800

Good afternoon everyone, this blog post is directed at all mountain residents of the Rim of the World communities: Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, Blue Jay,Rim forest, Twin Peaks, Green Valley Lake and Running Springs. The Rim of the World Parks and Rec group is in danger of being taken over by the county of San Bernardino if Measure N doesn't get passed by a majority vote of 66 2/3.

Measure N will add a $2 assesment on each parcel in the Rim of the World district to help adjust for the cost of living that has taken place since the 1980s when the last increase went into effect. Parks and Rec are grossly underfunded compared to the rest of the mountain(Big Bear) as well as California in general. The assessment would then be $12 per year per parcel for funding the programs and maintaining the facilities that fall under the parks and rec flag. Their mission statement states succinctly what they do for our community:

To help enrich and fulfill the lives of the citizens through the provision of facilities and programs that will provide and enhance creative, wholesome and imaginative leisure time living patterns.

By voting YES on Measure N, you as residents will be saving our programs and facilities from the control of the County of San Bernardino. You will be keeping our money local where our kids and residents need it the most. What happens when the county is needing money for other programs or if they are in financial crisis? There goes our community facilities and programs.

The RIm parks and Rec takes care of the following facilities:

Arrowbear Park Ball Field
Twin Peaks Ball Field/Rotary Centennial park
Lake Gregory Ball Field
Running Springs Ball Field
Firehouse Play Area(in Running Springs)
Running Springs Public restroom
Mountain Communities Senior/Community Center(Twin Peaks)
Robert Hootman Senior/Community Center(Running Springs)
ROW Recreation and Park District Office(Rim Forest)

The programs that serve our community are:

CPR and First Aid
Beginning gymnastics
Beginning modern dance
Bloodborne pathogens
Drama and acting
One Day Cheer Camp
Karate
Stretching and conditioning
Yoga
Taekwondo/MMA
Beginning Tap and ballet
Basketball
Track and field
Swimming
Tennis

The following are childcare programs that serve our community:

Sunrise Children's club preschool in Rim forest
Grandview Elementary Site(Twin Peaks)
Valley of Enchantment Elementary
Lake Arrowhead Elementary
Charles Hoffman Elementary(Running Springs)

The total annual impact on our local economy, to local businesses and employees averages $503,863. That's a lot of money for our small mountain communities, which encompasses 110 square miles total. We need to make sure we keep these dollars here on the mountain!

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

In March these ballots will be MAILED TO ALL REGISTERED VOTERS in San Bernardino county. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO VOTE, so make sure you do that soon. You can go to your local post office and fill out a voter registration card while you're picking up your mail. Simple as that. Make sure when you get the ballot that you FILL IT OUT WITH A YES TO SUPPORT MEASURE N AND MAIL IT BACK. The ballot must be mailed back before APRIL 6 2010 in order to count.

You can also donate to the cause of getting the news out to the rest of our residents. Tell your friends and neighbors. Have you ever walked your dog on the Lake Gregory ball field? Used a community center for a Boy Scout meeting? Taken advantage of yoga? Then you need to vote and get the word out.

For more information visit www.keeprimrec.com and www.rim-rec.org.

Spread the word to help save our Rim of the World parks and recreation!

Take care,

Amy Steele
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty
DRE#01492418
951-378-4570
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com

AMY STEELE, REALTOR®
(951) 378-4570
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty

www.HomesForSaleInCrestline.com
www.TheLakeArrowheadWoods.com
www.CrestlineForeclosures.com
www.LakeArrowheadVillas.com

DRE Lic# 01492418