My Real (Estate) Life in South Orange County

In our eclectic neighborhood, it should be no surprise that we have several "mini real estate markets" here, with properties available in just about every price range. As of January 17, there are 46 open listings in Capistrano Beach. The least expensive is a one bedroom, one bath condominium in H...

I found myself at loose ends this weekend, so I decided to visit open houses in my area. My purpose was to learn more about the neighborhood, but what I got was another type of education - the chance to see other agents at work. At house number one, I had the experience that I expected. The agent...

This is a good checklist and explanation of the tenant screening process.  Even if you employ a property manager for your investment properties, you need to review these elements with him/her before approving a new tenant.  It may cost you up to a month's rent upfront, but can save many months of...

Yesterday, I received my "Property Value Notice" in the mail from the Orange County Tax Assessor's office.  It was on blue paper, which means that my taxable value has been reduced from last year.  That makes sense; my house has certainly lost value.  But wait - the county assessor thinks the val...

I viewed a rental property yesterday that was built in the 50s.  One thing I noticed was that the bedroom windows were about 5 feet above the floor and only about 2 feet tall, which is a common characteristic for homes of that vintage.  It crossed my mind that it would be difficult to escape in c...

Finally, finally!  Summer has arrived in Orange County!  Lucky for us that summer goes on into October in Southern California.  The Orange County Fair started today,with so many delectably decadent goodies to try that you should probably make a cardiology appointment for the next day.  Yum! In Sa...

Investment opportunities abound in the downtown area of San Clemente in 2010.  In the first six months, 59 new listings came onto the market with an average listing price of $969,000.  Seventeen multi-unit buildings have closed escrow with an average selling price of $740,000.  These sold propert...

This week, the Senate approved an extension of the deadline to close otherwise-qualified home purchases, from June 30 until September 30.  This move would give extra time for buyers who are unable to close by June 30, due to short-sale delays and the volume of loan  application already in progres...