Surf City's Big Kahunas Of Real Estate

Surf City Lifestyles - July 2011 Edition

2011-06-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Surf City Lifestyles - July 2011 Edition

A monthly Huntington Beach newsletter with current events for the month of July 2011.

This newletter was provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate:

The Louison Team, Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com
Realty One Group - Huntington Beach Office - 01270836 & 01229689
All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

FHA Loan Limits Are Set To Decline In Many High Cost Areas

2011-06-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

Barring Congressional action, FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac high-cost area loan limits will decline to $625,500 beginning Oct. 1, 2011. The National Association of Realtors and California Association of Realtors have been urging Congress to extend or make permanent the current $729,750 FHA loan limit in high-cost areas. If congress decides to allow this decline it may cause homes currently valued above $655,000 to significantly decline in value. At minimum, it will make many of these homes much more difficult to sell, by reducing the number of qualified buyers.

This article was provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate and it also
Includes data taken from the NAR Newsletter.

The Louison Team, Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com
Realty One Group - Huntington Beach Office - 01270836 & 01229689
All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

Has the American dream of homeownership been tainted by the economy? | AgentGenius

2011-04-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

Has the American dream of homeownership been tainted by the economy? | AgentGenius

The article contains some interesting stats on what is happening around the country.

This article was provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate:

The Louison Team, Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com
Realty One Group - Huntington Beach Office - 01270836 & 01229689
All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

Eight banks agree to reform and penalties for falsely foreclosing on homeowners | AgentGenius

2011-04-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

Eight banks agree to reform and penalties for falsely foreclosing on homeowners | AgentGenius

Realtors® Applaud Bill to Speed Lender Response to Short Sales

2011-04-13T14:17:00.000-07:00

Washington, April 13, 2011

A new bill to improve the process for approving short sales may soon bring relief to distressed home owners who are unable to keep their homes and hope to avoid foreclosure. The bill, introduced in the U.S. House yesterday and strongly supported by the National Association of Realtors®, would impose a deadline of 45 days on lenders to respond to short sale requests.

The legislation, the “Prompt Decision for Qualification for Short Sale Act of 2011,” was offered in Congress by U.S. Reps. Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) and Robert Andrews (D-N.J.).

“The current short sale process can be time-consuming and inefficient, and many would-be buyers end up walking away from a sale that could have saved a home owner from foreclosure,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I.

“Realtors® and consumers continue to raise issues about delays in the short sale process, because lenders are unable to decide whether to approve a short sale. After many months of delays, and with no response from lenders, potential buyers are losing patience and cancelling their contracts, often resulting in the property entering foreclosure. A short sale minimizes the negative impact on sellers and generally costs the lender less than a foreclosure,” said Phipps.

NAR has been actively pushing the lending industry to improve the process for approving short sales, which represent about 13 percent of recent home sales according to NAR data. Phipps praised Reps. Rooney and Andrews for their efforts on the bill and urged Congress to pass the bill quickly.

“As the leading advocate for home ownership and housing issues, Realtors® want to help more home owners avoid foreclosure by facilitating a short sale when a family is absolutely unable to keep their home; however, that can only happen if lenders and servicers approve short sale offers in a reasonable amount of time,” said Phipps. “Streamlining short sales transactions will reduce the amount of time it takes to sell the property, improve the likelihood that the transaction will close and reduce the overall number of foreclosures. This benefits sellers, lenders, buyers and the entire community.”

The National Association of Realtors®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

The Louison Team's Surf City Lifestyles - April 2011

2011-03-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

Surf City Lifestyles - April Edition

Publish at Calaméo or browse others.

Surf City Lifestyles Newsletter - February 2011

2011-01-30T16:55:00.000-08:00

Surf City Lifestyles - Febuary 2011 Edition

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OC METRO – O.C. bankruptcies rise 28 percent last year

2011-01-24T14:17:00.000-08:00

OC METRO – O.C. bankruptcies rise 28 percent last year

An Update For The Active OC Listing Inventory

2010-11-02T14:52:00.000-07:00

The Orange County listing inventory continued to drop, shedding another 1% in just two weeks. The active listing inventory continued its decent, dropping slightly over the last two weeks by 68 homes, now totaling 11,425. Last year at this time there were 3,676 fewer homes on the active inventory compared to today. It appears as if the active listing inventory will start 2011 with more homes than the beginning of this year, but still will end up being the second best start in five years.

This article was written by Steven Thomas, President of Altera Real Estate and provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate: The Louison Team.

Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com
Altera Real Estate - Huntington Beach Office
All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

The Tale of Three Markets:

2010-11-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

That’s right; there are three distinctly different markets!
Earlier in the year, there were two distinct markets: homes priced below $1 million and homes priced above the same threshold. The lower ranges were red hot and the upper ranges were ice cold. With the housing market transitioning into the Holiday market, there are now three distinct markets: homes priced below $750,000, homes priced between $750,000 and $1.5 million, and homes priced above $1.5 million. We now have a hot, a lukewarm and an ice cold market. For homes priced below $750,000, the expected market time is 3.57 months. This range represents 73% of all active listings and 87% of demand. Buyers can expect increased competition, a higher chance of multiple offers, and sales prices close to their asking prices. Prices are stable within this range. For homes priced between $750,000 and $1.5 million, the expected market time is 6.37 months, a slight buyers market. This range represents 16% of the active inventory and 11% of demand. Buyers can expect little competition and a bit of flexibility on behalf of the sellers, but prices are pretty stable, especially below $1 million. For homes priced above $1.5 million, the expected market time is below freezing at 20.57 months. This range represents 12% of the active listing market, but only 2% of demand. Buyers can expect no competition and a lot of pressure on pricing. The problem with this range is that there is a battle between seller stubbornness and market reality. Most sellers at this level are nostalgic and ignore market fundamentals, unrealistically overpricing their homes. Many are substantially overpriced and still very unwilling to budge off of their prices. They forget that buyers no longer buy on a whim, especially with too much supply. Buyers are strategic and approach purchasing very carefully. There is tremendous pressure on pricing in the upper ranges because prices have been a lot stickier and have not fallen yet as much as the lower ranges. They were a bit late to the party. It is basic supply and demand. There are way too many sellers and very few buyers. Specifically, there are 1,337 homes above $1.5 million and only 65 homes placed in escrow over the past month. The probability of success is very low. Motivated sellers priced realistically and able to patiently wait for the right buyer should stick it out. Everybody else really should just pull their homes off of the market.

This article was written by Steven Thomas, President of Altera Real Estate and provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate: The Louison Team

Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com
Altera Real Estate - Huntington Beach Office
All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

The Holiday Real Estate Market:

2010-11-02T14:38:00.000-07:00

From Halloween through the first few weeks of the New Year, it is the perfect time to buy a home. On November 1st we quickly transition into the Holiday season as we are bombarded with festive jingles prompting us to purchase gifts for our loved ones. With all of the election hoopla just about over as well, people can’t help but divert their attention to the wonderful distractions of the holidays. Housing is no different. Many home-buyers sit on sidelines and enjoy the season, only to resume their home search just after they forget about their New Year’s resolutions. This is the time of year when housing demand drops, the expected market time climbs and competition wanes. Home-Sellers get it as well. Many homes have been on the market for months and many owners just don’t want to market their homes during the holidays. Others come to the realization that they may have been unrealistic in their expectations of the market and have inadvertently overpriced their homes. This is the perfect time to throw in the towel and pull those overpriced homes off of the market. Typically only the really motivated sellers who have to sell remain on the market. With less competition, low interest rates and highly motivated sellers, it is a great time to be a buyer. As 2011 rolls along, typically right after the Super Bowl, the market will transition into the Spring market, cyclically the best time of year for Orange County real estate marked with strong demand. If a buyer is looking to buy, ‘tis the season to purchase now!

This article was written by Steven Thomas, President of Altera Real Estate and was provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate: The Louison Team.

Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com
Altera Real Estate - Huntington Beach Office

All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

NAR Hails Bill to Hasten Lender Response to Short Sale Requests

2010-09-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON (September 16, 2010) – Homeowners who are underwater with their mortgage may find that relief is on the way from a bill strongly supported by the National Association of Realtors® that would impose a deadline on lenders to respond to short-sale requests.

The legislation, H.R. 6133, “Prompt Decision for Qualification of Short Sale Act of 2010,” was offered yesterday in Congress by U.S. Reps. Robert Andrews (D-N.J.) and Tom Rooney (R-Fla.). The bill would require lenders to respond to consumer short sale requests within 45 days.

“The short sale, which requires lender approval, is an important instrument for homeowners who owe more than their home is worth,” said NAR President Vicki Cox Golder, owner of Vicki L. Cox & Associates in Tucson, Ariz. “While the lending community has worked to improve the size and training of their short sales staffs, they still have a long way to go on improving response times.”

“As the leading advocate for homeownership issues, NAR believes that quicker attention to the short sales process is vital to help homeowners who are underwater and their communities, as well as the nation’s economy,” said Golder.

The number of potential short sale properties is rising across the country. According to NAR data, in the second quarter of 2010, Nevada, California, Florida and Arizona are states where significant shares of all properties on the market are potential short sales: 32 percent, 28 percent, 27 percent and 24 percent, respectively.

“Unfortunately, homeowners who need to execute a short sale are severely hampered because lenders (loan servicers) are unable to decide whether to approve a short sale within a reasonable amount of time. Potential homebuyers are walking away from purchasing short sale property because the lender has taken many months and still not responded to their request for an approval of a proposed short sale price. Many consumers have mentioned that the delay in short sale price approval exceeds 90 days, and in many cases never arrives,” Golder said.

She commended Reps. Andrews and Rooney for their efforts on the bill and urged Congress to pass the bill quickly.

The National Association of Realtors®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

This residential real estate update was provided to you by the Surf City Guru and the Surf City Kahuna of Real Estate: If you need asssistance with a short-sale in Orange County, please contact:

The Louison Team
Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com

Altera Real Estate - Huntington Beach Office

All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

5 key changes in lead-paint removal rule

2010-09-01T15:46:00.000-07:00

5 key changes in lead-paint removal rule
Some common past practices are outlawed By Mary Umberger

There's little, if any, argument that lead-based paints in homes can be toxic, particularly to young children, who are susceptible to brain damage or learning disabilities if they ingest it. And tons of it - literally - are out there: The Environmental Protection Agency estimates lead was used in paint in more than 38 million homes before it was banned for residential use in 1978. As of April, if you renovate a home that was built before 1978, potentially sending the paint's potent substance into the air, your contractor will have to prove that he's able to get the lead out. A new federal law requires that remodeling contractors and painters who work on such older homes complete an eight-hour course on containing and safely removing lead-contaminated materials such as drywall, plaster and wood trim and paneling.

Five things to know about the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule:

1. The lead-containment rule doesn't apply to all homes: Only those built prior to 1978 are affected. And it doesn't apply to comparatively small jobs, such as those that affect less than 6 square feet of painted surface per room or less than 20 square feet of painted surface of a home's exterior. Work crews must be supervised by a certified lead renovator who has passed the mandatory course; certified firms must register with the EPA. (Do-it-yourself homeowners aren't affected by the new rule.)

2. The EPA and a number of state health departments around the country are overseeing the training of tradesmen. According to Ada Duffey, president of the Milwaukee Lead/Asbestos Information Center in Wisconsin. She estimates her firm has trained 4,500 people in the construction trades on the rule since September. "There are particular work practices (that now must be followed), such as posting warning signs and keeping people out of the work area," she said. "They must use a HEPA vacuum (or high efficiency particle arrestor, to filter contaminants), and they're going to have to clean up really thoroughly at the end, packaging up their waste and removing it from the site." Some other requirements include testing for lead before beginning a job, and if lead is found, the workers must seal off the site with plastic and seal-off doors and air-conditioning vents. The workers also must use respirators and conduct a "cleaning verification" of the area at the completion of the project.

3. In addition to requiring certain steps, the new law also forbids some fairly common practices. Among them: open-flame burning or torching of paint; using a heat-gun above 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit; using paint strippers that contain methylene chloride; using machines that remove paint through abrasive blasting, sand painting, machine sanding, among others, unless the devices have approved filters; high-pressure water blasting, unless it's in a contained area or works with approved filtration.

4. The EPA estimated that steps taken to follow the new rule would add $8 to $167 to the cost of an interior job, though many in the construction industry say the steps, including taking the course, could add considerably more. Remodeling magazine, a trade journal, estimated it could add 5 to 11 percent in labor and materials costs to home-renovation projects.

5. The EPA maintains a list of renovators, by ZIP code or by city and state, who have completed the federally run training program at www.epa.gov/lead. Wisconsin, Iowa, North Carolina, Mississippi, Kansas, Rhode Island and Utah are administering their own programs, and the EPA suggests homeowners in those states who are seeking trained renovators contact the National Lead Information Center, 800-424-LEAD (5323).
Taken from article Published in the Inman News

This Surf City Lifestyles Tidbit was provided to you by the Surf City Guru and the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate:

The Louison Team
Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http://www.soldonhb.com

Altera Real Estate - Huntington Beach Office

All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

Surf City Lifestyles Newsletter - July 2010

2010-07-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

Surf City Lifestyles Newsletter - July 2010

Publish at Calaméo or browse others.

The Louison Team's Monthly Newsletter featuring what's Happening in Huntington Beach. This is our July 2010 Issue with information on the Surf City Independance Day Celebration, US Open of Surfing, plus almost everyting else fun going on this month in Surf City!

For Sale: 2BR/2+1BA Townhouse in Huntington Beach, CA, $399,900

2010-05-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

For Sale: 2BR/2+1BA Townhouse in Huntington Beach, CA, $399,900

Happening In Huntington Beach - April 2010

2010-04-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

What's Happening In Huntington Beach - April 2010

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2 Bedroom Condo In Old Town Garden Grove Listed For Sale!

2009-06-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

Incredible Low Price!

The Louison Team
Altera Real Estate - Huntington Beach Office
714-307-2934
CA DRE Lic. #01270836 & #01229689

Some Good News For First-Time Homebuyers!

2009-05-29T19:02:00.001-07:00

Gary Thomas, Senior VP of the National Association of Realtors told us in a meeting yesterday what he learned at the NAR Summit Meeting. One of the announcements at the NAR summit was the monetization of the $8,000 tax credit. Shaun Donovan, secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, said that the Federal Housing Administration is going to permit its lenders to allow homeowners to use the $8,000 tax credit for purchasing a home as a down payment. This means that first time homeowners who qualify for this tax credit can now use it towards their down payment on the purchase of a home. There are some other restrictions, so please give us a call for more details. Note: This tax credit is due to expire on November 30, 2009 and you must have closed escrow prior to the expiration date. NAR has requested an extension, however we will not hear their response until later in the year.

Surf City Condo For Sale - Huntington Beach, CA

2009-03-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Large 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo, In A Centrally Located, Gated Huntington Beach Condo Community, With Only 28 Units. Nicely Updated Kitchen and Bathrooms. Pergo Style Wood Laminate Flooring, Inside Laundry, Storage Cabinet Inside Gate Subterranean Garage W/Assigned Spaces. Seller Is Motivated And Can Close Quickly!

Fountain Valley Townhouse For Sale

2009-03-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

Wonderful Tiburon South Townhouse With Extra-Large Private Patio Between Xtra-Large 2 Car Garage. Nicely Remodeled With Designer Colors And Hardwood Plank Flooring. Custom Walk-In Closet In The Large Master Suite. Currently Asking $423,000

715 Ashland Drive, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

2009-03-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

Taking back-up offer for this spectacular remodeled Townhouse.
The asking price is just $519,000
Only 1 mile from the beach and downtown Huntington Beach resort areas.
This is a short-sale property and all offers must be approved by seller's lenders.

15961 Redlands Ave., Westminster, CA 92683

2009-03-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

This spectacular 5 bedroom pool home is located just outside the city limits of Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach. This home features an incredible gourmet kitchen that any chef would love to have. Plus one bedroom is located downstairs. Excellent room for a either a home office or visiting in-laws!

Asking the just $649,900 for this home. Not a short-sale!

Sellers are very motivated and do not have any contingencies. The owners can either move fast or take as long as you need.

Huntington Beach Home Security Vacation Checking Service

2009-02-16T19:56:00.000-08:00

The Huntington Beach Police Department provides House Vacation Checks courtesy of the HBPD Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).
Our trained RSVP’s will conduct an exterior security check of your home. If something appears suspicious, the RSVP’s shall call for the assistance of a police officer. The RSVP’s will also pick up any of the throw away newspapers/flyers (that tells criminals no one is home) that often gather when you’re away a couple of days or forget to check your front door area. Shortly after your return date they will mail you a print out of the dates and times of there visits and what they observed. Exterior areas of your home that are not accessible will not be checked.
There’s absolutely NO fee for this service and it’s easy to sign up; you may call the HBPD RSVP office at 714-374-1507 to complete the form over the phone or you can check out the web page at:
• www.surfcity-hb.org/government/departments/pd
• Scroll to “eServices” then scroll down to Vacation House Check (click)
• Complete the form then, click on Submit Data to RSVP Vacation Check Office

Please try to provide us with at least a 1 week notice (due to scheduling).
We do understand that in an emergency that may not always be possible.
If you have any questions or need more information about the HBPD RSVP Program please call the RSVP office at 714-374-1507, or Nilda Patiño de Berndt, HBPD Community Relations Specialist at 714-536-5933.

July 2008 Surf City Lifestyles E-Newsletter

2008-07-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

Click on the links below to view our July 2008 Newsletter.

July 2008 Newsletter - Part A
http://www.surfcitykahuna.com-a.googlepages.com/July08PartA.pdf

July 2008 Newsletter - Part B
http://www.surfcitykahuna.com-a.googlepages.com/July08PartB.pdf

Dear Newsletter Reader,

In the interest of your understanding more about our BY REFERRAL ONLY business, we’d like to explain how our newsletter works. While most real estate agents are only interested in completing a transaction with you, we want to be your consultants for life: Someone you can turn to for advice on the best route to take regarding your home needs; someone who offers you referrals to other companies that provide world-class service; someone with suggestions on where to get a particular product or service.
We’re constantly looking for information that we believe would be valuable to our clients. This information might help you improve your financial, social or work life, or it might show you how to improve your perception of life. We never use that information with the intent of making a profit from someone else’s words.
We do not actually write many of the articles that appear in our newsletter. If we spent the amount of time it would take to write new and interesting articles every month, we’d have little or no time to give you or our other great clients great service for your real estate needs. There are a number of interesting pieces on the Internet, some of which occasionally appear in our newsletter. Many of the pieces do not give credit to the original author, and it’s often impossible to track down exactly who made a particular statement or wrote a particular article.
We try to make our newsletter interesting and informative so you’ll look forward to receiving it each month, and so our name will be foremost in your mind should you need help with something. We hope you’ll read and enjoy our newsletter for what it is: an informal means of communication that keeps us in touch with our clients and friends.
Your real estate consultants for life,
Raymond & Stephanie Louison

The Louison Team
RE/MAX Real Estate Services
Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

Free Homebuying Workshop

2008-06-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

Description: An Evening Workshop Style Seminar Covering The Entire Process Of Buying A Home Under Current Market Conditions.

Topics Included: The Benifits And Disadvantages Of Buying Short-Sale, Foreclosures and Bank Owned(REO)Properties. The Role Of Your Realtor, Lender, Home Inspector, Escrow & Title Companies. How To Find And Choose The Right Home, Different Ways Of Taking Title, Taxes Benefits, Credit Scores, First-Time Homebuyer’s And Other Home Loan Programs... This informative workshop is provided without any obligations or sales pitches. Please feel free to invite a friend or family member to attend.

Cost: FREE.
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Registration: 6:15 PM. Reservations Required!
Date: June 24, 2008.

Tel.: 1-800-237-3390, Ext. 72652 or simply E-mail, soldonhb@yahoo.com

Location: Huntington Beach Central Library, 7111 Talbert Ave.

Sponsored by: The Louison Team of RE/MAX Real Estate Services, First Allied Financial Services, Tiempo Escrow Company and LandAmerica Lawyers Title Company.

W Hotels Heads For The California Coastline With W Huntington Beach

2008-01-18T13:39:00.000-08:00

W Hotels Worldwide and Makar Properties LLC to Open W Hotel’s First Pacific Beachfront Property and W Hotel’s Fifth California Hotel; Scheduled to open in 2010, W Huntington Beach to Anchor Makar’s Pacific City Development

NEW YORK, NY—January 8, 2008—In its pursuit to expand in the world’s most alluring destinations, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announced plans to open a new W Hotel in Huntington Beach, California, a picturesque seaside town renowned for world-class surfing, magnificent, golden sunsets and a vibrant nightlife and music scene. Scheduled to open in 2010, W Huntington Beach and The Residences at W Huntington Beach will offer escape and indulgence in a pristine beachfront sanctuary. Owned by an affiliate of Makar Properties LLC, the new W Huntington Beach when opened will feature approximately 250 luxurious guest rooms, approximately 92 full-service private residences, a world-class signature restaurant, a spectacular bar and destination spa. The opening of W Huntington Beach will mark the fifth California property for W Hotels, the fastest growing luxury hotel brand in the world.

“W continues to extend beyond the boundaries of everyday travel, offering a magical mix of sexy destinations and sublime design,” said Ross Klein, President of Starwood’s Luxury Brands Group. ―From Huntington Beach to Hong Kong, Minneapolis to Milan, Hoboken to Hollywood,
“W Hotels is going global as the influential and innovative lifestyle authority.”

Located on Pacific Coast Highway, W Huntington Beach will serve as the central, defining element in Makar’s Pacific City development. Pacific City is set on more than 30 acres of prime oceanfront property in the heart of the Orange County coastline. The development promises to bring a new level of sophistication and excitement to the already bustling city of Huntington Beach. The Pacific City retail village, scheduled to open in late 2009, will offer an array of eclectic boutiques, discriminating brands, exciting culinary and entertainment venues and prime office space. An expansive residential village completes Pacific City as the ultimate location to live, work and play.

“W Huntington Beach will offer guests and residents the epitome of Southern California lifestyle,” said Paul Makarechian, President and CEO of Makar Properties. “We are very excited to partner with W Hotels in creating a landmark property. We always believed that Orange County was an untapped market for their trendsetting style of hospitality. There is no better place than Pacific City to unveil something that will be completely unique to Southern California.”

Interest in The Residences at W Huntington Beach has been tremendous. “The residences will be unlike anything on the market today. The proximity to the beach, hotel, high-end retail, restaurants and exclusive recreational facilities puts it over the top in terms of amenities” says Thomas Kearns, Vice President of Residential Sales & Marketing for Makar Properties.

Overlooking an 8-mile stretch of uninterrupted beach, W Huntington Beach will feature expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, sleek public spaces complemented by the W brand’s innovatively designed guest rooms and suites. Guest rooms will offer modern technology and the W signature design, including the signature W bed – a luxurious ensemble featuring a feather-top mattress, 350 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose-down comforter. W Huntington Beach will offer more than 11,000 square feet of meeting space, ideal for the growing number of corporate-sponsored events held in the area each year. Guests and residents will be able to dine at the hotel’s stylish, full-service restaurant, relax in the signature Bliss® Spa and indulge in the W brand’s Whatever/Whenever® service, the hotel’s 24-hour concierge that provides whatever guests want – from a pair or running shoes to a private jet service – whenever they want it. Additional facilities include two outdoor pools, W Living Room and Sweat Fitness® center.

Huntington Beach attracts more than 11 million visitors each year who travel from all over the globe to experience its unspoiled beaches, spectacular surfing, outdoor concerts and miles of beachside walking and biking trails. Guests and residents will have the opportunity to enjoy shopping at unique and destination boutiques, and dining in a variety of enticing, specialty restaurants, all located within Pacific City, directly adjacent to W Huntington Beach. At night, the city pulses with excitement, generated by the warm and welcoming atmosphere of its local breweries and pubs, many of which feature live music performances by cutting-edge bands. W Huntington Beach is just 15 minutes from Long Beach Airport, 20 minutes from Orange County Airport and 35 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport, providing a number of air travel options. The location also offers convenient access to many local destinations, such as Disneyland, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.

About W Hotels Worldwide
W Hotels is a global lifestyle brand with 21 properties in the most vibrant cities around the world. Inspiring and indulging its guests with thoughtful, refreshing and stylish experiences, signature restaurants, bars and destination spas, W has become the fastest growing luxury hotel brand in the world. Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design, comfort, and cultural influences from fashion to music to art and everything in between. The W brand’s first residential property, W Dallas-Victory, opened in June of 2006, and soon thereafter was named a Forbes Magazine ―Top Business Hotel.‖ W Hotels have been announced in Scottsdale (2008), Midtown Atlanta (2008), Fort Lauderdale (2008), Buckhead (2008), Hoboken (2008), Minneapolis (2008), Downtown Atlanta (2008), Downtown New York (2009), South Beach (2009), Hollywood (2009), Philadelphia (2009), Washington, D.C. (2009) and Austin (2010). Internationally, W has announced plans for hotels in Istanbul (2008), Doha (2008), Hong Kong (2008), St. Petersburg (2008), Santiago (2008), Athens (2009), Milan (2009), Dubai-Festival City (2009), Shanghai (2009), Barcelona (2009), Macao-Studio City (2010), Guangzhou (2010), Dubai-The Palm (2010), Yokohama (2011), Bangkok (2011) and Amman (2011). The W Hotel’s first Retreat & Spa, W Maldives, opened in September of 2006 and in March of 2007, received the prestigious Travel + Leisure Design Award for Best Resort. W has plans to open Retreat & Spa hotels in Vieques (2008), Koh Samui (2009), Bali (2009) and Verbier (2010), the latter of which will serve as the W brand’s first ski retreat. For more information, visit www.whotels.com.
About Makar Properties
Headquartered in Newport Beach, California, Makar Properties, LLC is an innovative diversified real estate development company that specializes in the acquisition and development of innovative master-planned communities and mixed-use, resort, retail, golf, office and residential properties in premier locations and high growth markets. Devoted to community and investor needs, Makar aims to craft distinctive lifestyle experiences for each resident or guest while considering the integration of each project with its community and ultimately, delivering superior returns. Makar has over $1 billion in assets representing an estimated build-out value of over $10 billion.

Makar is best recognized for developing lifestyle communities that combine luxurious, uniquely located hotel properties with upscale residential collections to create destination resort living. Among its current projects in development, Pacific City is a highly desirable surfside community including the 250-room W Huntington Beach Hotel, cutting-edge retail and a luxury residential village that includes The Residences at W Huntington Beach. Join the priority interest list at www.PacificCityHB.com. One of Makar’s landmark developments is the St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach, a 172-acre luxury coastal resort in Dana Point featuring 400 rooms and suites, a world-class golf course and luxury residential living. Additional properties are located in South Beach, Miami, FL, Palm Springs, CA, La Jolla, CA and Anaheim, CA. www.makarproperties.com

(Note: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities regulations. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and involve risks and uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated at the time the forward-looking statements are made. These risks and uncertainties are presented in detail in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained or that results and events will not materially differ. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.)

This Press realease was brought to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate. The Lousion Team at RE/MAX Real Estate Services. Each Office is independently owned and operated.

Update For The Pacific City Development in Huntington Beach

2008-01-18T13:18:00.000-08:00

The retail promenade spans nearly 200,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and office space on Pacific Coast Highway and features open plazas, fountains and panoramic beach and ocean views. An array of gourmet foods, eclectic boutiques and discriminating brands will surpass retail expectations and replace the usual shopping mall suspects. Whatever your apetite, the Pacific City retail promenade is sure to satisfy with a dizzying array of restaurants to choose from.
The Getaway

Orange County's first hip boutique hotel is expected to include 250 rooms. Read about the hotel brand and operator HERE. Guests will enjoy a world-class wellness spa and dramatic pool deck elevated above Pacific Coast Highway. A brand new energetic California destination has arrived.

Home Sweet Home

The Pacific City residential village will include over nine acres of common green space. A tree-lined village path provides easy access for pedestrians who can stroll to the great restaurants, gourmet market, shops and entertainment venues at Pacific City.
The first village released will have 136 homes, including one, two and three-bedroom units. Completion is expected towards the end of 2009. If you are in the market for a new home at Pacific City, even if you have registered with us before, or for additional residential opportunities, please join the Priority Interest List.
Preliminary Introductory Pricing:
• 1-bedrooms from the low $800s to just under $1M
• 2-bedrooms from just under $1M to $1.5M
• 3-bedrooms from $1.75 to $2M
Pacific City residences will include high ceilings, open plans, large patios, decks or balconies and underground parking. A brand new recreational facility exclusively for the residents of Pacific City will include such amenities as concierge services, pool, spa, fitness center, and club room.

This report brought to you by the Louison Team of RE/MAX Real Estate Services. All information is deemed reliable, however not guaranteed. Each RE/MAX Office is independently owned and operated. For more information on our services call Raymond at 714-925-5361. or visit our website at http://www.soldonhb.com

Seven Different Reasons To Own Your Own Home…

2007-11-27T17:23:00.000-08:00

You've probably seen lots of financial arguments about why you should own your own home rather than rent. This includes budgeting (no rent increases) and the tax savings you'll most likely have. Now we're going to give you some reasons you probably haven't heard.

#1: Freedom to pursue other goals in life once the major goal of home ownership is achieved.

Strange as it sounds, many of our first-time buyers have told us that once they bought the house, other things in their life started to fall into place. It's as if not owning took so much of their mental energy that other goals were not worked on until that big goal was reached. So buy a home and get on with your life!

#2: A greater sense of belonging to the community.

Once you own a home, you feel more attached to the city in which you live. You're more interested in what happens in town, to the roads, schools, and shopping areas. Some people even become involved in local politics.

#3: A commitment to something, a sense of stability.

Home ownership is an anchor, something that cannot be pulled out from under you. You'll never get a notice that you have to move. You're kids will never have to change schools. It gives you freedom to plan years ahead.

#4: You can change things, a feeling of being in control.

It's your home. You can add to it, remodel it, change the landscaping, do whatever projects you want. You have a feeling of being in control of something in your life. At work we don't always have control of what happens, but your home is your castle and you have dominion over it. You can see what you're building take shape before your eyes.

#5: More control over the children than in an apartment complex.

In a neighborhood, kids usually play in the yards or go to friend's houses a few doors away. Our clients have told us that in an apartment complex they never knew where the kids were. They could be in any of hundreds of apartments, doing who knows what. In a home you get to know the neighbors and watch out for each other's kids.

#6: Children do better in school and feel more secure.

This one surprised us, but buyers have reported to us that their kids calmed down in school after they bought a house. We don't know why, but it seems to work that way. We remember a single mom watching her son play in the yard, making steps in the slope and building things. She didn't have to tell him to leave everything alone, like she did at the apartment complex. I guess kids feel the same need for control we adults do.

#7: Time and money saved by not going to the Laundromat.

A small point, but if you have kids, you know the value of this one. You gain a whole evening a week when you buy a house! The wash gets done in between other things, or while you're at work. What would you do with the extra evening you'll have? How about going out for dessert with your spouse with all those quarters?

We've been in a home of our own for so long; we take these benefits for granted. We forgot what it's like to be renters! If you have anything you can add to the list, please let us know via email. We would love to hear from you!

This Surf City Lifestyles Report was provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate:

The Louison Team
Raymond and Stephanie Louison
Real Estate Consultants and Realtors
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
Website: http:www.soldonhb.com

REMAX Real Estate Services
Each office independently owned and operated

All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

How to Buy a House

2007-11-27T16:59:00.000-08:00

Can I Afford a Home?

Many people never buy a home because they don’t think they have enough money for the down payment. They’ve been told that they need 10-20% of the purchase price in order to buy a home. This isn’t true.

So, why have so many real estate companies told them this? It’s simple.
Selling homes to people with 10-20% down is easier than selling homes to people who have little or no money for a down payment. Most agents prefer the easy sale.

We have a different mission: To help people. That’s why I created this special report and sent it to you with no obligation. This information is designed for people with good credit and income, but little cash for a down-payment.

Option 1: FHA Loans – Best Bet
Although this isn’t a “No Money Down” option, the FHA loan is by far one of the best alternatives for people who want to buy a home and don’t have much money to put down. With an FHA loan, you could put down as little as 3.5%. Plus, FHA loans are easier to qualify for.

While you can’t borrow the 3.5%, you can get a “gift” from a family member, borrow from your 401k, or sell some “stuff” you have lying around. At the end of this report, we’ve included a special section with great ideas for raising this small amount required for an FHA loan.

FHA loans do have requirements and restrictions:
• Not all townhomes and condos qualify.
• There is a maximum loan amount.

Option 2: Some Special Loan Programs
Special loan programs come and go quickly.

Loan One: Allows the seller to provide the 3.5% downpayment required for a home loan. That means little money out of your pocket if you know how to negotiate with the seller!

Loan Two: Requires only 5% including closing costs – wow!

So, how do you find out what type of loan programs are available for you right now?
The best way is to work with a great mortgage broker who keeps up to speed on these special programs. If you don’t know of one, we work with at least three such mortgage professionals, and we would be happy to refer you.

Option 3: Owner Financing
Owner financing means exactly that: The owner (or seller) finances a portion of your home purchase.

For example, you might borrow 80% of the value of a home from a lending institution, and “borrow” the other 20% from the owner. In this situation, the owner “carries back” a second mortgage.

Owner financing can be advantageous, especially to investors who buy up properties and then rent them out. For the average homebuyer, however, owner financing is difficult to find and requires some tricky negotiating. Even after successfully negotiating a deal, it requires some detailed work by qualified attorneys in order to protect the interests of all parties involved.

While you shouldn’t rule out owner financing, keep in mind that by looking for someone who is willing to help finance your purchase, you severely limit your choices. There are a lot of houses for sale today, but not a lot where owner financing is an option.

Option 4: Lease-to-Own
With a lease-to-own, you essentially lease a home, but make larger payments in order to begin accumulating a down payment.

For example, if a house would normally lease for $800, you might lease it for $1,000/month, with $200/month going into a special account. At the end of a specified period, you buy the home using the money in that special account as your down payment. However, if you decide somewhere along the line not to purchase the home, all of the money in the special account then goes to the seller.

Think of this option as renting with a forced savings account. If you can find someone willing to do this, it’s not a bad option. However, most people who are selling their homes need their money out of it in order to buy their next home, so finding someone who is willing to lease to you may prove more difficult.

Where to Begin
Now that you have four good options for buying a home for little or no money down, where is the best place to begin?

Get pre-qualified.

We’ll Do More Than Help You Get Financed!
We're dedicated to helping you through the entire process, delivering world-class service all along the way. We can help you find the right home, negotiate the right terms, and then make sure that you actually get to the closing table.

Simple Ideas for Raising Money for a Down Payment
1. Have a garage sale. You’ll be surprised how much money you can raise this way, especially if you’re willing to give up the junk you’ve been hoarding for years!

2. Raid your savings. Even if you’ve been trying to keep a little stashed away, this is important. If your kids have a savings account, ask them if you could borrow from theirs as well!

3. Borrow from your retirement fund. Many retirement funds (401k, IRA, etc.) have provisions for you to borrow from them for important reasons. This counts as an important reason! Check with your plan administrator or your financial advisor about this option. The nice part about this is that as you repay your loan, you pay the interest to yourself.

4. Ask your family. This is probably the hardest thing for some to do, but you might be surprised at how willing a family member would be to help you buy a house, even if they’ve said “no” to you before when you tried to borrow for other things. If you do this, you’ll need a form for your banker stating that this is a gift and not a loan. (Yes, you can still repay your family member. It just can’t be a formal loan.)

5. Sell something. If you look around your house, you might find items that have value, but that you haven’t used in a long time: An old coin collection, an old musical instrument that no one plays anymore, an extra freezer you don’t really need, a second (or third) car you could do without. Often, the cash from selling these items can add up quickly.

6. Win the lottery. Somebody’s going to win – it might as well be you!

This free report was provided to you by the Surf City Kahunas of Real Estate:

The Louison Team
Real Estate Consultants and Realtors
Raymond and Stephanie Louison
714-925-5361 or 714-307-2934
http:www.soldonhb.com

Altera Real Estate
Service Areas: Huntington Beach and all areas of Orange County and Long Beach.
All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

Orange County Real Estate Market Update

2007-11-27T14:29:00.000-08:00

Orange County prices have continued to go down slightly this month due to an increase in the total number of foreclosures, short-sales, and mandatory corporate employee relocations. According to the National Association of Realtors, this trend is expected to continue for another six to twelve months.

Unless you absolutely must, now is not the best time to sell a home. The real estate market cycles sometimes like a roller coaster, with ups and downs. Over the long term, residential real estate prices have always has ended up much higher. If you wait long enough prices will again rise up to another all time high. The best bet is to always think long term whenever investing in residential real estate.

Now is a wonderful time for buying a home.
Current economic conditions have created a very strong buyer’s market, where negotiating price reductions, closing cost, repairs and other items are possible. Once prices begin to rise again, many potential negotiable items will be taken off the table. Waiting for the market to reach bottom, could cost you big bucks!

This Report Posted By:

The Louison Team,

Raymond & Stephanie Louison, Real Estate Consultants

REMAX Real Estate Services,

Each office independently owned & operated

Raymond: 714-925-5361 or Stephanie: 714-307-2934

Toll-Free: 800-546-4821, ext. 2444

All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

Safety Tips For Halloween

2007-10-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

Click on picture to make it larger!

This report brought to you by the Louison Team of RE/MAX Real Estate Services. All information is deemed reliable, however not guaranteed. Each RE/MAX Office is independently owned and operated. For more information on our services call Raymond at 714-925-5361. or visit our website at http://www.soldonhb.com

Remodeling? Check Your Insurance!

2007-10-26T16:15:00.000-07:00

You've hired an electrician, selected new tile, countertops and appliances, and have the home improvement loan in order. You're all set for your remodeling project -- or are you?

As you embark on any type of home improvement endeavor, be sure you make a call to your insurance agent to determine whether additional homeowner's insurance coverage is needed. And, if contractors or sub-contractors are involved, you'll want to be sure they have the proper insurance so you're not liable for any accidents or damages that may occur while they work on your project.

Check your insurance coverage BEFORE the work begins. If the new work is damaged or destroyed before additional coverage takes effect, you could be responsible for repair costs, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
Home insurance policies typically require that you insure your home to at least 80 percent of its replacement cost. About 25 percent of remodeling projects result in a home value increase of at least 25 percent, according to the Independent Insurance Agents of America. In such cases homeowners insurance needs to be increased to provide adequate coverage.

Owners should be careful when it comes time to projecting renovation benefits. A renovation will usually increase the value of the home, though not always by the amount invested in the improvement. However, some improvements are justified because they create a better lifestyle, because they make a home safer, or because they make a home easier to sell. To see which improvements work best in your community, speak with local real estate experts.

Even smaller projects like decks and home offices -- which might include custom cabinets to include a desk, a computer work station, storage, as well as rewiring to accommodate faxes, computers, cable modems and DSL lines -- should be considered for increased insurance coverage.

The IIAA reports that nearly 60 percent of homeowners who recently made significant improvements have not updated their homeowner’s policies.
"The investment is considerable, in most cases more costly than a new car. While few people would question the need to adjust their auto insurance if they were to go from a compact car to a luxury sedan, many fail to see the importance of safeguarding a significant investment in their home," said Madelyn Flannagan, IIAA assistant vice president of research and development.

The IIAA and the III offer these insurance tips for your remodeling projects, including some suggestions for working with contractors:

* Contact your insurance agent before work begins on your project. He or she will help you determine appropriate coverage for your addition or improvement.

• Find out if the contractor has workers compensation, which covers any medial-related expenses and lost wages if any injuries are sustained.

• Request a copy of the contractor's certificate of insurance. Let your agent look over the certificate to determine if any exposure exists.

• Check with the Better Business Bureau. Follow up with references provided by the contractor.

• If your project involves tearing down walls or chimneys, review your policy for theft and weather damage liability.

• Establish responsibility for uninstalled appliances, cabinets and other items in advance. Your contractor will likely have a builder's risk policy or installation floater to cover such items.

• If you plan on leaving your home during the remodeling, check with your agent about terms of your policy. Vacancy clauses vary from company to company. In some cases, you may not be covered under your homeowners policy if you are gone for more than 30 days.

• If friends or family members will be helping out with the project, you may want to consider a personal liability umbrella policy to cover any potential medical bills.

• If you are working with a contractor who is subcontracting to builders, electricians, and plumbers, make sure they all have adequate coverage.

The need to stay on top of your insurance coverage with each new remodeling project doesn't appear to be going away anytime soon. The National Association of Home Builders has reported the remodeling market to be upwards of $150 billion, fed by ongoing prime interest rate cuts and low mortgage rates, which fuel home improvement projects for those aiming to sell.

Meanwhile, another thing to keep in mind as you increase your homeowners coverage is that any additional furniture, home office equipment, electronics, grills for the deck, or other personal effects, should be added to your home inventory, and if necessary, additional contents coverage or a separate rider should be considered.

This Report Posted By:
Author Unknown!
The Louison Team,

Raymond & Stephanie Louison, Real Estate Consultants

REMAX Real Estate Services, Http://www.SoldOnHB.com

Each office independently owned & operated

Raymond: 714-925-5361 or Stephanie: 714-307-2934

Toll-Free: 800-546-4821, ext. 2444

All information deemed reliable, however not guaranteed!

Conquering A Cluttered Garage

2007-10-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

By Leona Laurie, Professional Organizer

It’s a great time of year to tackle your garage! The holidays are coming, which means an influx of guests will probably inspire you to hide your current clutter in the garage during their visits, and add the gifts they came with once they’re gone. Cleaning out the garage before December’s consumerism hits its peak will allow you more post-holiday storage, and may give you some terrific gift ideas.

A thorough garage cleaning is a one-weekend job: One day for purging and sorting, and one day for cleaning and putting everything back together. (Garage sale lovers can add a second weekend for a big blow-out.) The trick to getting it done in two days is having laid a good foundation. Before the big weekend, you may want to order a dumpster to be delivered by the morning of the purge. You can also call St. Vincent de Paul, or another charity which makes pick-ups, and arrange ahead of time for them to come the following week to collect any useable items you’re willing to part with. It would also be wise to check with OC Landfills to see where your nearest hazardous materials dumping site is.

You should also have your shelving and storage solutions figured out beforehand. Cabinets are not the only way to go, and they may not necessarily be best for you. Visual people often fare better with a combination of open shelving and clear containers. You can also use the “dead” space in your garage near the ceiling for seasonal or other infrequent-use items. Several companies make overhead storage bins for garages which can handle a lot of weight. The Uncluttered Garage (www.theunclutteredgarage.com) sells Tuffrax overhead storage bins, which are made from 14 gauge industrial grade steel and hold up to 500 lbs.

As you’re packing things up to go back into the garage for long-term storage, resist the temptation to store things in cardboard! Storing things in cardboard is like throwing them away in slow motion- especially in the garage. Cardboard is vulnerable to moisture, mildew, mold, bugs, and rodents. Store your belongings off the floor in clear plastic or fire-safe containers to ensure that they’ll be worth reclaiming later. I recommend the clear plastic storage boxes with flat- not interlocking- lids available at Target or Wal-Mart.

The order of operations for the big project should follow this basic outline:

1. Empty garage onto driveway for sorting. Create an area under an overhang (or in a spot which can be tarped overnight) for items you’re definitely keeping, and have trash receptacles and bags or boxes for charity items available.

2. Sort contents of garage into available containers and designated “keep” area.

3. Clean interior of garage with natural cleaning products to avoid getting a headache from the fumes of chemical cleaners.

4. Assemble and install any new shelving needed.

5. Pack up the items you’re keeping, and put them back in the garage with the most frequently used items in the most accessible spots. (Keep like things together!)

6. Distribute the trash, hazardous wastes, and charity items you have left over, and give yourself a pat on the back!

If your car has never seen the inside of the garage because of the mountain of miscellany piled inside, make this the year you take control of the chaos. A weekend of sweat this fall will create a dry haven for your car during the winter, and if you need help you can always call a professional organizer!

Leona Laurie is the president of Working Space Unlimited, Inc. (www.workingspaceunltd.com), a professional organizing firm based in Newport Beach. She can be reached at (714) 343-2587, or by e-mail at Leona@workingspaceunltd.com.

This report brought to you by the Louison Team of RE/MAX Real Estate Services. All information is deemed reliable, however not guaranteed. Each RE/MAX Office is independently owned and operated. For more information on our services call Raymond at 714-925-5361. or visit our website at http://www.soldonhb.com

Preventing Fires

2007-10-26T14:55:00.000-07:00

According to the National Fire Protection Association, home fires cause more than $5 billion in property damage each year, and more than 3,000 deaths. That's the bad news. The good news is that most fires are preventable. First, let's look at the top causes of home fires.
• Cooking fires. Cooking fires pose a serious hazard. Always stay near the stove when cooking. Avoid wearing loose sleeves while cooking; they can be ignited by a burner or a grease splatter. You'll also want to keep curtains and other flammable materials well away from the range or oven. And never put water on a grease fire, which can cause the hot grease to splatter, burning you or spreading the fire. Instead, smother it with a lid or another pan, then turn off the burner. Leave the lid in place until it has cooled off completely.
• Portable and space-heating equipment. Wood-burning, kerosene, propane and electric heaters can ignite draperies, clothing and other flammable items. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from all heating equipment. Shut off a heater before you leave the room or go to bed. When you purchase a heater, make sure it's been tested and approved by a reputable organization.
• Careless smoking. Cigarettes are the leading cause of fire deaths. Never smoke in bed or in a place where you may fall asleep. Also, use deep ashtrays so a lit cigarette won't roll out and fall onto rugs or furniture. It's also a good idea to run water over an ashtray before emptying it into the trash. A smoldering cigarette butt could set the trash on fire.
• Electrical wiring. You can't see wires hidden inside walls and ceilings, but there are some warning signs of electrical problems. If lights dim or flicker, fuses blow frequently or sparks shoot from receptacles when items are plugged in or unplugged, consult an electrician. Faulty electrical cords can also spark a fire or cause an electrical shock. Never run cords under rugs or heavy furniture. Pressure can crack insulation and break the wires. Don't overload outlets.
• Children with matches. Children playing with matches or lighters are the leading cause of fire deaths for children 5 and under. Keep these items up high, preferably in a locked cabinet, out of the sight and reach of small children. Teach older ones how to handle matches responsibly.
• Holiday hazards. Decorations and candles are a special concern during the holidays. If you buy a live Christmas tree, choose a fresh one and water it daily. With an artificial tree, make sure it's made of flame-retardant materials. Keep candles well away from anything that can burn and blow them out when you leave the room or go to bed. Fireworks also deserve special mention. They endanger life, limb and property. Avoid amateurs who set off fireworks. Instead, attend public displays conducted by trained pyrotechnicians. Even sparklers are hazardous; they burn at 1200 F.

There are some other simple, common sense precautions you can take to decrease your chances of a home fire:
• Never store or use gasoline in the home. Gasoline is a motor fuel only. Keep small quantities in an approved container designed to store gasoline, and store outside, preferably in a locked, detached shed. Wipe up spills immediately and never refuel motors near heat sources, sparks or cigarettes.
• Don't overload electrical receptacles.
• Don't use light bulbs with greater wattages than a fixture can handle.
• Don't let combustible materials such as newspapers and rags pile up in basements and garages.
• Leave plenty of air space around appliances and television sets; they can overheat and catch fire.
• Use outdoor gas and charcoal grills with caution. Keep them away from structures, particularly when in use. Never add materials to the fire.

Preventing Theft

2007-10-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

Every year, burglars hit more than five million households, stealing more than $4 billion worth of property. Determined thieves can break into just about any home, but you can take steps to make entry a lot more difficult for them.

• Invest in a quality door. Door security begins not with a good lock but with the door itself and the frame it fits into. Weak door assemblies can be broken with a single kick, popped open with a jimmy bar or even pried out-frame and all-from the wall. Strong exterior doors have solid, not hollow, cores; doors that are sheathed in metal are even better.

• Install deadbolts. Deadbolt locks provide the best protection for the least amount of money. Ordinary spring-operated locks can be defeated with a credit card. Intruders can't slip a deadbolt lock because it has a solid metal bar that fits into the door jamb. To be effective, a deadbolt lock should have at least a one-inch throw (meaning the metal bolt extends at least an inch past the edge of the door). Doors with glass panes present a special security problem because a thief can break the pane, reach inside and unlock the door. If state or local laws permit, the solution is a double-cylinder lock-one that must be opened with a key from inside as well as out. But don't defeat the purpose by getting into the habit of leaving the key in the lock on the inside. To exit quickly in case of a fire, keep the key near the door but in a spot that can't be reached from outside. You might want to hang it on a nail near the floor where you can find it easily if fire breaks out.

• Don't forget windows. Windows and sliding glass doors also should be secured. Look for locks specifically made for different window styles at your local hardware store or home center. You also can secure a sliding glass door with a broomstick or piece of 1" x 2" lumber laid in the door track when the door is closed.

• Light up. Outside flood lighting reduces your risk of burglary by highlighting the exterior of your home at night. You can choose from lights that remain on all night or motion-sensitive lights that come on only when someone approaches your home. Motion-sensitive lights save energy and could catch a would-be thief by surprise. Timers on inside as well as outside lights give the impression that someone is home, even if you're on vacation, out to dinner or visiting the neighbors.

Sounding an Alarm

For greater peace of mind, consider investing in a professionally installed alarm system. Alarm systems come in many shapes and sizes, at prices that range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Many installers also charge monthly monitoring fees, which should be taken into account when you shop for a system. A home alarm system includes some combination of the following components:

• Perimeter sensors. These consist of photo cells or magnetic contacts on doors and windows that sound an alarm when an intruder tries to get inside. Perimeter sensors are mounted on two points, such as the door jamb and the door itself. Photo cell sensors are activated when something passes through a beam of light projected between the two points, while magnetic sensors are activated when contact is broken between the two magnetized points.

• Heat and motion sensors. You can use heat and motion detectors to protect specific spaces in or outside your home-a bedroom hallway, for instance, or your backyard. Heat detectors respond to body temperatures. Motion sensors detect movement.

• Glass break detectors. These devices recognize the sound of breaking glass. They activate the alarm when they sense breaking glass in a window or door.
• Keypad. One or more keypads allow you to turn the system on and off.

• Audible alarm. A piercing alarm alerts neighbors and the police. And it lets the burglar know he's been detected, meaning he'll probably leave your house in a hurry.

Keep in mind that false alarms can be a problem. In addition to annoying the neighbors and taking the police away from real emergencies, some communities now assess fines for excessive false alarms. The National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association reports that nearly 80 percent of false alarms are caused by user error. Steps to prevent false alarms include regular system maintenance and ensuring that whoever has a key to your house also knows the codes to activate and deactivate your system. Local police are a good source of information and recommendations regarding security systems. They work with the security services in your area and can tell you what types of break-ins are most common in your community.

After you've determined which alarm system is best for you, ask your insurance agent, family or friends for referrals. Get written quotes from at least three companies. Before you obtain an alarm system, investigate a security service's reputation and how long it has been in business. Also ask about warranties and what they cover.

Our 24-hour Toll-Free Information Hotline

2007-10-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

Obtain current information without any of the usual hassles!
Simply call our 24 hour Toll-Free Information Hotline!

Buyers can receive pre-recorded information on any of our listings 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without having to talk to an agent.

Obtaining current information on homes listed for sale is often a huge hassle. Either you get the run around while tracking down the agent or - just as bad – they go right into an unwanted sales pitch and then ruthlessly hound you until they sell you something!

Well...it doesn't have to be so difficult!

You see, our homes all have pre-recorded information which you can access immediately by simply calling our 24-hour Toll-Free Information hotline.
This is great for everyone involved. First of all, our experience shows that when homebuyers don't have to deal directly with an agent, many more of them will call in for information on homes. If you're selling, that's really good for you because your home will receive mush more exposure to many more prospective buyers.-
And it's really easy and convenient for buyers too. You can call anytime, day or -night, and never have to never have to speak directly with an agent (unless of course you want to).

15842 Redlands, Westminster, CA
Here all about this wonderful 4 bedroom executive style home.

1-888-845-4240<Ext. 86220

10386 Truckee River, Fountain Valley, CA.

Here all about this wonderful 3 bedroom townhouse.

1-888-845-4240<Ext. 86180

27705 Falkirk, Mission Viejo, CA

Here all about this wonderful 3 bedroom townhouse.

1-888-845-4240<Ext. 86210

For Color photos, maps and more details visit our FREE HomeFinder Website. WWW.SoldOnHB.com

Surf's Up in Surf City USA

2007-10-09T14:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Surf City Kahuna's Blog! Let us know what information you want to see here! Have a question about Surf City. If we don't know, well find out and post it for you.