Things that make you say Hmmm

Amazing Home Ideas.

I just love, love, love these transparent bathtubs.  Bathtubs are not what they use to be, that’s for sure.  These days, it’s all about luxury and style.  Pictures courtesy of Home tone.  For more styles and ideas visit www.shopatmg.com

 

Look what this art assistant decided to do with his office.  He turned it into a beach.  Justin installed a wooden box in the middle of his living room, lined the bottom with plastic, and filled it with sand.  Let me know your thoughts about sand in the house.  Make your comments here or email me at carolmorrow@century21award.com

 

How cool would it be to have an aquarium in the bedroom, or not?  Having an aquarium in the bedroom is not a good idea according to feng shui.  The main elements of an aquarium are water, fish and vegetation.  The constant movement of water weakens the energy you want in the bedroom. The higher the quality of feng shui energy you have in your bedroom the healthier, sensual, calming and nourishing of your own energy.

If you don't practice Feng Shui, having an aquarium in your bedroom could be soothing.  Falling asleep to the sound of flowing water and colorful fish is better then counting sheep, I'd say. 

Here's a few other aquarium ideas............

 

    Photo Courtesy of Karnac.com

 

 

    This one is my favorite.  What's your thought on aquariums in the bedroom?
     Photo Courtesy of www.Karnac.com

 

   Courtesy of www.Brananni.com

 

   It’s nothing like having the beach like atmosphere in your own back yard. Imagine the possibilities!

    Courtesy of www.absolutelyoutdoors.net

 

I can remember catching my children sliding down our stairs case on cardboard, pretending it was a slide.  My, how dangerous that was. Take a look at what you could provide for your children....how fun. Picture courtesy of www.Beacont.com

The picture below is for the big kid in you!

Courtesy of Weburbanist.com

 

How innovative and fun for your cat.  Look at what Jillian Northrup and her husband Jeffrey      

McGrew, (architect) came up with.  How creative and functional for a cat.

Picture courtesy of "Architecture firm Because We Can".

Who would of thought of this space saving ping-pong table-door.  No need to storage it away.  When done just fold it up . Wala it's a door again. Design by Tobias, photo Courtsy of Geek-gadgets

 

Photo Courtesy of Eyes Popping

    Photo Courtesy of Eyes Popping 

   Tree houses has a new meaning. For the big and not so big kids.

 

 

......and this one is for the little princess.  Any little girl would fall in love with this fantasy creation. It's price tag is more than a standard size American made car. Courtesy of www.Poshtots.com
 

What a dream come true for Pierre Andre Senizergues (PAS), a former World champion and Pro Skater.  He's also the founder of Etnies and the client for this amazing home.  It will be used for skateboarding and everyday living. The prototype of PAS House was presented at La Gaite Lyrique museum in Paris. The home will be built in Malibu, CA
 

In door outdoor pool a great way to relax when the weather is bad. Photo Courtesy of www.Loverhispic.com

You can create a backyard theater in your own backyard.  Pottery Barn suggests sewing two ironed, queen sized sheets together. Insert a top pole between the sheets and hang with rope from a tree. Insert a bottom pole and fasten to the ground somehow (rope and tent stakes is what they suggest). ....and there you go, your very own, homemade projector screen.  Now all you need to do is put together the lighting scheme, some comfortable seating and cozy blankets. This can be a creative setting for a romantic evening.  For more great ideas visit Pottery Barn

 

How You As A Foreign Nationals Can Purchase Real Estate in The United States

Foreign Nationals may find purchasing and financing a home in the U.S., difficult and complex.  Most often cash is paid because it is much easier, or is it?  With low mortgage interest rates, many international buyers are opting to finance their purchase.

According to the National Association of Realtors® 2013 Profile of International Home Buying Activity, interest in U.S. properties continues to grow.  This is a signal that America continues to be regarded by international buyers as a great place to own property.

 

Five states made up 61 percent of reported purchases: Florida (23 percent), California (17 percent), Arizona (9 percent), Texas (9 percent) and New York (3 percent).  About half of foreign buyers preferred to purchase in a suburban area, while a quarter preferred a more central city/urban area.  A majority purchased a detached single-family home and 63 percent used all-cash.  Based on the reported international transactions, the median prices of purchases were higher when compared to purchase prices of domestic buyers.

Graph Courtesy of NAR

Obtaining a Mortgage Loan and Guidelines For Financing A Home in San Diego, California

Borrowers are not required to have a Green Card, Social Security Number or VISA.

Max 60% LTV, meaning you would need to have 40% as a down payment.

Minimum loan amount is $300,000. 

Credit:

No Fico score is required, however four credit references are required – alternate credit from Country of origin is acceptable.  International credit reports are also acceptable.

Income: 

Lender will require 2-years or more, year to date income verification.  It is not necessary to have U.S. tax returns.  Tax documents from Country of origin will be acceptable.  If the Country of origin does not require the borrower to file the equivalent of tax returns, pay-stubs will need to be provided as well as bank statements.   A letter of employment on company letter head explaining compensation, or a translated CPA letter instead of tax documents is acceptable.   

Assets: 

Two months bank statements of sourced and seasoned assets must be on deposit in a known verifiable financial institution.  Your assets do not need to be in the United States.

 

If the income, credit and asset documentation is in a foreign language, you will need to have it translated by a certified translator.  Include a business card or letterhead from the translator, tax preparer or CPA.  All U.S. Embassies provide translation services.

The lender will require an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) which can easily be acquired through an Accountant/CPA.   Visit the IRS website that explains what and how to get a TIN.  As long as the borrower has applied for the TIN, your lender can proceed. (Please note when submitting, most systems require a social security number in order to proceed.  In this case, enter 999-99-9999 in order to get the system to move forward).  If borrower states they will not be using this purchase for tax purchases then we can waive the TIN proof.

Will need a copy of borrowers valid Passport.

Reserves of 12-months full debt service (including all credit card payments, cars, etc.) are required.

The United States home-buying customs will be different than in other Countries.  Knowing how homes are sold here and what to expect regarding cost, inspections and the negotiation process will reduces your stress.  If you prefer speaking in your native language, I will be able to assist you with that.

I'm sure that you'll have questions or would like more information on qualifying for a home here in the United States.  Contact me at 1-619-368-6382 or e-mail me at carolmorrow@century21award.com

To view all active properties for sell in San Diego, California go to www.allhomesinsandiego.com 

Locate the nearest US Embassy by going to:  http://www.usembassy.gov

Get help with a VISA by going to:

http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english.html

I hope this information was helpful to you.  Make sure to contact me with any of your most needed questions or concerns.

 

 

Before You "Put A Ring On It" Things to Consider before Hiring a REALTOR®

 

When hiring a REALTOR®, not all will require a Buyer to sign an Exclusive Agreement.  However, the REALTOR® that you do hire will expect a commitment.  In other words "put a ring on it!"  However, before you say "I do", here are a few tips on hiring a great REALTOR®......

Hire a REALTOR® not a Real Estate Agent, there is a difference.  A REALTOR® is a member of The National Association of REALTORS®, they uphold a REALTOR® Code of Ethics that is strictly enforced.   It contains 17 Articles and various Standards of Practice and they swear to uphold and adhere to all.  If you would like a list of those articles please let me know.

Your REALTOR® should be knowledgeable, current on the real estate market and conditions.  Consider a full time REALTOR® that has closed several transactions with a couple of years under their belt.  They should be able to handle issues that may arise.  Make sure your REALTOR® keeps you informed of all issues as they happen.

Hire a REALTOR® that does not act as your accountant, your attorney or your contractor they would be your REALTORS® and should act as one.

Hire a REALTOR® that is willing to work on weekends.

Hire someone that has your best interest in mind and concerned with your needs, not theirs.

Hire a savvy REALTORS®, one that uses current technology, Google their full name and see what comes up.

Hire one not afraid to step outside the box and willing to go that extra mile.

Hire a REALTORS® that will set expectations, guide you through the entire process and will be there when the transaction is closed.

Hire one that will be in constant communication with you via email, text messaging, phone calls, or in person......whichever works best for you.

Hire a REALTOR® that has someone to handle the paperwork throughout the transaction. That way your REALTOR® can manage your needs and the details necessary.

Don't expect your REALTOR® to call you back within minutes of your message being left. However, your REALTOR® should call you back in the same day or the following day if your message was left late the day prior.

Hire a good negotiator, an aggressive and active REALTOR®, ask to speak to their past clients.

No matter how many clients your REALTOR® is working with, hire someone who will focus on you.  You want to feel like their only client.

Look up the prospective REALTOR® licensing to assure they are in good standing and select a name Brand Brokerage.

Hire one that networks professionally with other professionals.

Hire a REALTOR® that will meet your expectation and one that will deliver what they've promised, hold them to it.

Thoroughly interview the REALTOR® before you hire them and meet them in their office.  See what their environment is like, if possible.

Hopefully you hire a REALTOR® that will be there after closing your transaction, one that will be there with you for many years to come.

.........after checking and considering all of the above it's at that point you can finalize your relationship.  Selling and Purchasing a home is a huge decision and probably one of the largest investments you will make so, hire a great REALTORS®.  I wish you all the best!

To ask me any questions that you may have regarding Selling or Purchasing Real Estate be sure to contact me via text or phone at (619)368-6382.  I'd love to work with you!

Feel free to email me at CarolMorrow@Century21award.com

Be sure to visit my website to view all homes for sale in San Diego, CA http://www.allhomesinsandiego.com/

Google me at Carol Lusidia Morrow

As always.....Thank you for reading!

 

Find Out How to Refinance Your Mortgage with Little or No Equity

                                                        If you can not view this video please view on a computer

If you are a homeowner with a Wells Fargo Service Loan, with little or no equity in your home.  You may be eligible to refinance your mortgage.  Your mortgage must be at $417,000 or more.  Only owners who occupy their homes are eligible.  Other requirements and standard guidelines still apply.

For more information please contact me at (619)368-6382

Carol Lusidia Morrow, REALTOR
CENTURY 21 Award
7676 Hazard Center Drive #200
San Diego, CA 92108
BRE 01463404
direct phone (619)368-6382
email: www.carolmorrow@century21award.com

To view all homes for sale in San Diego go to: http://www.allhomesinsandiego.com/

Don't Let Selling Your Home Be Like Going On American Idol

Many times one may listen to their family and friends regard to the condition of their home or how much their home is worth.  It's like those contestants that go on shows like American Idol.  The contestant believes they are talented, as told by their family and friends.  It's not until they go on a big stage in front of an audience, where their imperfections become obvious.  

Do understand it's perfectly alright to seek the opinions of friends and family. However, listen to the advise of a REALTOR.  The REALTOR you hire should be knowledgeable and up to date with the current real estate market conditions.  You want a listing agent that's an expert negotiator, one that's able to educate you and show you why your home is worth the suggested value.  That way you are equip to make a decision as to what to list your home for.

You want to take the advise of your REALTOR so that your home is listed and does not sit on the market for months or years, while the surrounding comparable homes are sold.  If your home does sit on the market for longer then your competition then your REALTOR should be able to explain why your home has not sold.

As always please feel free to contact me via email or phone
Carolmorrow@century21award.com
Direct phone: (619)368-6382

Use My Mistakes as A Lessen Learned

This morning while taking my granddaughter to school, we made a quick stop at the mini mart.  We got back in the car.  My granddaughter's in the back seat not able to buckle her seat belt because it was tangled.  I get out of the car to go around and help her. 

Out of nowhere, a woman jumps into my car and starts it......I run around to snatch her out while asking "what are you doing" (in a not so nice way).  She said sorry and mumbled other words under her breath. 

My heart was pumping as if I had just gone on a run. In that split second, all I thought about was......someone is steeling my car with my granddaughter in it. 

Mistake #1. I should not have left the keys in my car.  Mistake #2. I should not have left my car door ajar.  Mistake #3. I should have made sure my granddaughter's seat belt was fasten before I got in the car.

I was Blessed, as the worse did not happen.  Sometimes we are in such a hurry that we do not think.  Slow down!  Use my mistakes as a lessen learned. I sure did!!!!

Update:

I've had people ask me why I did not call the police.  This is one of my reasons.....  A few weeks ago, I was in a hit an run.  A man hit my car while merging onto the freeway.  I followed the man while on the phone with 911.  Lucky, I was able to get close enough to snap the picture of his license plate before he got away.   

I was told to stop following the other car by the 911 operator.  If that driver was in a car accident then I would be the cause of the accident and at fault, as per the 911 operator. Therefore I did stop following his car.  

When the police arrived there was a small scratch noted.  At the time he hit me I did not know the damage.  The loud noise heard as he hit me lead me to believe there was more then a scratch.  The officer said the scratch could be buffed out at the car wash.  He then asked me what I wanted done.  I mentioned that I want the person who hit my car and ran to receive a fine, a ticket of some sort.  The officer said there was no damage and that nothing could be done.

I was able to get the woman out of my car.  She did not get away, we were fine so I decided to just let it be. 

New Home Tour in San Diego, CA. (Mission Valley)

For more information contact:
Carol Lusidia Morrow, REALTOR
CENTURY 21Award
7676 Hazard Center Dr
San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 368-6382
Carolmorrow@century21award.com
Www.allhomesinsandiego.com

REDISCOVER THE HOMEOWNERSHIP DREAM!

HUD Announces:

Program For Shorter
Period after Bankruptcy,
Foreclosure, and Short Sale

The waiting period after a
bankruptcy, foreclosure, or
short sale has been
reduced to just 1 year
from the event!

Program Requirements are as follows: 
Purchase Transactions Only

Housing counseling must be completed 30 days 
prior to loan application

The bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale must be 
related directly to the loss of job OR 
20% income reduction for at least 6 months

Credit must have been satisfactory before the 
bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale and 
be satisfactory for a minimum of 12 months 
after the event


For more details please feel free to contact me at anytime (619)368-6382
To view all homes for sale in San Diego, CA click on the link below:

allhomesinsandiego.com 

* Note: Program requirements may change

Picture provided by Greenpath Funding, LLC

You Can Be a Seller But Think Like a Buyer

Did you ever read or hear of the book "Men are from Mars women are from Venus"? Psychotherapist, Dr. John Gray gives a great delivery of his theory.  I am particularly impressed with the role-playing of male and female interactions.   Gray portrays in his New York Best Seller, proven ways for men and women to improve their communication by acknowledging the differences between their needs and wants. 

Just like with Seller's and Buyer's they each have their own set of needs and wants.  Now, let me draw your attention to my theory and how we can translate Gray's findings between Men and Women and apply them to Seller's and Buyer's.  Although Seller and Buyer may collide, not often but it does happen.  One can't live without the other. The needs of Seller and Buyer are different.  Seller's want the highest possible price for their home and the Buyer's want to offer the lowest possible price.  However, when the financial needs of Seller and Buyer are met effectively through the expert negotiation skills of a REALTOR there is a meeting of the minds, a union is made, and it's called an acceptance.

Sellers act like a Seller but think like a Buyer.  Remember when you purchased your home? That very home you live in right now, the home you take pride of ownership in.  Yes, that's the one.  Visualize your home through the eyes of a prospective Buyer.  Picture yourself when you purchased your home. What were you feeling?  Buyers today are savvy, they know what they want and so do you.

Buyers are looking for a long time investment so you want to touch the Buyers emotional side.  Have them fall in deeply in love with your home before they even hit the front door.  Make sure your curb appeal is immaculate, add a little color with flowers of the season  to your landscaping.........make your home shine. They are thinking about what their monthly expenses will be for the home.  You might want to create a check list of utilities and monthly maintenance expenses for the prospective Buyer.  Live it for the prospective Buyer during the viewing of your home.  Buyers are also thinking about what their inspector will find during the home inspection.  It may be a good idea for you to have a home inspection done before placing your home on the market.  That way you'll know ahead of time what repairs the buyer may ask for.  Consider making repairs to any thing called out on the report as a safety hazard.  By going that extra little mile will help you get your asking price.  Make sure to contact me for any questions that you may have.  I'm always here to serve your real estate needs at (619)368-6382

To view all homes for sale in San Diego, California click on the link:  allhomesinsandiego.com 

Fun Things To Do In San Diego, California in January 2014

January 17-19, Gem Faire

The Gem Faire, established in 1989, has become a world-renowned marketplace

for the finest in gemstones, beads, jewelry, minerals, fossils, meteorites, lapidary equipment, metaphysical items and much more at the lowest prices in today’s market. Workshops and classes also are offered. Admission: $7.00 (children 11 and younger free).

Time:  Fri. Noon – 6:00 pm / Sat. 10:00 am – 6:00 pm / Sun. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Location:  Del Mar Fairgrounds

For more information visit www.gemfaire.com

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 January 17-19, Del Mar Antique Show

More than 250 premier antique dealers from all over California and the western U.S. will be selling the finest in antiques and collectibles. Appraisal service is available for $5 per item. Restoration services are also available. Admission: $8.00 (17 and younger free).

Time:  Fri. & Sat. 11:00 am – 7:00 pm / Sun. 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Location:  Del Mar Fairgrounds – O’Brien Hall

For more information visit www.delmarfairgrounds.com

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January 18, Sheila Harden San Diego Multi-Cultural Festival

A diversified cultural festival with music, dance performances, storytelling, and a wide range of ethnic foods and merchandise. The Kids Zone has drum circles, face painting, and craft-making activities, plus you can learn about local educational institutions at the Education Fair. Free event.

Time:  11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Location:  Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade, E.Harbor Dr. between First and Fifth Aves.

For more information visit www.sdmulticultural.com

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January 19, Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

An annual event commemorating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The parade features marching bands and floats, drill teams, dance groups, and other community groups.

Time:  2:00 pm

Location:  Harbor Drive – Embarcadero

For more information visit  http://alpha-zsl.org/mlkdayparade.html

____________________________________________________________________________

January 19, Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon

The Tri-City Medical Center Carlsbad Marathon features a rolling course, including 14 miles along the Pacific Ocean. Includes fully staffed and equipped water stations, and unsurpassed volunteer support and live entertainment along the way.  See website for registration fees.

Time:  Marathon start at 6:15 am / Half Marathon start at 7:45 am

Location:  Both races start at Westfield Plaza Camino Real, Carlsbad

For more information visit www.carlsbadmarathon.com

____________________________________________________________________________

January 19-24, San Diego Restaurant Week

Extraordinary three-course menus from San Diego’s best restaurants. Choose from over 180 of the city’s best restaurants and enjoy a fixed price, three-course dinner for $20, $30 or $40 per person, depending on the restaurant. Also a two-course lunch available $10-$15-$20. There are no tickets or passes required for Restaurant Week. For a complete list of participating restaurants visit the San Diego Restaurant Week website.

Time:  Refer to website

Location:  Refer to website – various locations

For more information visit www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com

___________________________________________________________________________

January 20, Free Art in the Park – Poway

Stop by for crafts and free family fun at Community Park.

Time:  10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location:  Poway Community Park, 13094 Civic Center Dr., Poway

For more information visit www.poway.o

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 January 20 – 26, Farmer’s Insurance Open

The Farmer’s Insurance Open is a professional golf tournament and the PGA TOUR stop in San Diego.  Don’t miss the excitement!  Several attractions are open to the public, including the Alaska Airlines Fan Village, the Grey Goose Lounge, Michelob Ultra 19th Hole, Michelob Ultra Oasis, and Beringer Wine Bar. 

Time:  Refer to website for a schedule of events

Location:  Torrey Pines Golf Course, 11480 North Torrey Pines Rd.

For more information visit www.farmersinsuranceopen.com

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 January 23 – 26, San Diego Sunroad Boatshow

The San Diego Sunroad Boatshow is complete with both land and in-water locations, focusing on the latest boats and marine equipment. This years show includes over 100 new and pre-cruised sailboats and motor yachts, dozens of marine vendors with the latest nautical products and services, live music, food and beverages, and special boating events and boat rides for kids and adults. $12 for Adults. Children 12 and under, free. Cash only.

Time:  Thurs. & Fri.  Noon – 6:00 pm / Sat. & Sun. 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Location:  Harbor Island – San Diego Bay, 955 Harbor Island Dr.

For more information http://bigbayboatshow.com/

 ___________________________________________________________________________

January 25, San Diego Whale Festival

The free Whale Festival is a family community event offering a wide variety of interactive and hands on displays to spark the interest and imagination of any child including a walk-through gray whale, live sea creatures, free face painting, a kids art mural coloring project and a giant inflated obstacle course, a trackless train and two giant bounce houses. Enjoy live music on the “Whale of a stage”.

Time:  11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location:  San Diego Embarcadero, 1066 N. Harbor Dr. – at the foot of Broadway

For more information visit www.whaledays.com

____________________________________________________________________________

January 25, Carmel Valley 5K & Fun Run

A 5K run/walk and a Fun Run for kids in Carmel Valley where the proceeds from the event will benefit the Del Mar Schools Education Foundation to help pay for science, art, music, and technology programs. Admission fees: 5K for age 15 and older = $46 / 5K for age 6-14 = $36 / Fun Run = $21.

Time:  8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Location:  Carmel Del Mar Elementary, 12345 Carmel Park Dr.

For more information visit www.carmelvalley5k.com

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January 31- Feb. 2, San Diego Lunar New Year Tet Festival

A 3-day celebration of the Lunar New Year, this Vietnamese cultural festival will showcase homeland traditions. Experience ancestral rituals and Vietnamese music with costumed dance performances, carnival rides and Vietnamese games, food, and merchandise. Free event.

Time:  Fri. 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm / Sat. & Sun 10:00 am – 10:00 pm 

Location: Mira Mesa Community Park, 8575 New Salem St.

For more information visit www.sdtet.com

____________________________________________________________________________

To View All Homes for Sale in San Diego, California.....click below:

allhomesinsandiego.com 

Schedule Courtesy of

Know The Comparable Sales Before You Write Your Offer

The way real estate professionals determine the value of a home is to analyze the recent comparable sales within the last 90 days.  In some cases going back as far as 6 months is justifiable.  Active listings and listings that are in escrow will be apart of any analysis.   The subject home is also compared to other home of the same size, location, and style.  Give and take away a little depending on up-grades, condition of the property and don't forget those amenities they are just as important.   Look at the view...... not a view of the neighbors back yard however, views of rolling hills, ocean, golf course views and the like are going to have a higher value.  Remember, that old real estate saying, location, location, location?  Well, it still applies.   

Determining value can be rather easy in a condominium complex or homes in an area where they are fairly alike.  However, when we are looking at custom homes where no two are alike it takes more skills so, be sure to speak with a knowledgeable REALTOR.  

Now, when there are foreclosures and short sales among traditional sales one might gravitate  towards the traditional sales however,  do look at the foreclosures and short sales they should be adjust accordingly.  Selecting a REALTOR that knows the current real estate market is very essential.  I hope helps!

As always contact me for your real estate needs (619)368-6382

carolmorrow@century21award.com

View All Homes for Sale in San Diego, California click on this link; allhomesinsandiego.com 

...........until again!

~Carol

According to Pantone Color Institute the Color is "Radiant Orchid".

Pantone called Radiant Orchid "captivating and magical".  Yes, it is the Color of the Year 2014.  It's a mix of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones.

So, let your imagination flourish with a splash of this years color radiant orchid. 

Use it creatively, be on the edge with your home interior accents such bedding, pillows and art work.

Step out and be bold with your wardrobe. Radiant Orchid is in department stores and boutiques all over.

Use radiant orchid to be dramatic with your home furnishing.  Give some depth to walls and ceiling.  

Make sure to use it when whipping up that special recipe.  

Come Spring make a point to splash a little Radiant Orchid in the garden.  It will surly make garden pop!

Having completed a 3 years course at Design Institute of San Diego my background in furniture design, drafting, space planning, color theory, the history of art all come out when identifying homes for my buyers.  As I gather information from them my knowledge helps me to easily and effortlessly understand their sense of style.  

Representing my sellers as a Lsting Agent I'm better equip when creating unique, client specific marketing plans. 

If you are looking for a Listing Agent and would like me to design a marketing plan to get your home sold or if you are a buyer looking to locate that unique home make sure an contact me at today at 619-368-6382.

.....until next time be inspired to use "Radiant Orchid" somewhere in your life this year!

Pictures courtesy of Printerest

Is Your Roof Trying to Tell You Something?

Have a roof inspection by a licensed professional regularly.  For your safety I would NOT recommend that you go upon the roof yourself.  

Be aware of early signs of a roof leak as they can happen at anytime.

Early signs may include:

Dark spots on ceilings 

Peeling paint

Damp spots on the ceiling, walls and around the fireplaces.

Water stains on pipes and venting 

In the fall have your roof cleaned of Leaves & Moss.  You can have moss killer applied.  (Make sure that the one selected is intended for the roof).

Come spring, a broom can be used to remove remaining dead leaves and moss. 

Summer is the severe season. The roof is hit with high heat and can be shocked due to sudden cooling during summer rains.

Here’s a few things your roofer will look for:

Damaged flashing

Broken/Missing tile

Broken/Missing/Bulking shingles.

Worn rubber around vent pipes.

Damaged/Missing chimney cap. 

Roof rot

Attic Ventilation

Pooling on the roof

Studies have shown that if a roof is not maintained it will last 1/2 it's life expectancy.  Take note most manufacturers of roofing materials state in their warranty that it is not valid if the roof is not maintained properly so maximize your warranty and keep up the maintenance of your roof.

Do some research, you may start with  the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association to locate a roof contractor in your area. Most roofers will inspect your roof at no cost.

If you do find that you do need roof repairs make sure to get at least 3 bids and do not sign anything unless you fully understand the terms and conditions. Remember, Happy roof equals happy home!

If you would like to know the value of your home be sure to contact me at 619-368-6382.

carolmorrow@century21award.com

to view all homes for sell in San Diego www.allhomesinsandiego.com

If you are outside the San Diego, Orange, or Riverside Counties of California contact me for a REALTOR in your area 619-368-6382

Real Estate Little Known Indicators

Real estate development is back up an running.  Builders are in full swing, developing master planned communities all across the United States.

Buyers that sat on the fence are feeling more certain about the real estate economy.  More and more buyers are secure with their own individual financial portfolio despite the fact that Lenders are more strict and have tightened up their lending conditions. 

According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development along with the US Census Bureau, nationwide housing production rose 22.7%.  That's a rate of 1.09 million. 

Building permits are a good indicator of all the building activity that's going on.  Total building permit issuance increased 7.8% in the Northeast part of the country and fell 7% in the South, 0.4% here in the West and 0.6% in the Midwest.  Although activity did fall 3.1% to 1.007 million units in November.  With the decline this was the 2nd month that new permits issuance went over a million.

Not only are builders developing more single family and multifamily homes, starts are at a 5 year high.  This is yet another indicator of our economic real estate recovery.  When the government shutdown took place the real estate market took a hit with increased interest rates.  However, as we move forward into 2014 we will see a gradual growth in real estate sales all across the United States.

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