San Diego Home Info by Gretchen Pagnotta

Santaluz Community Offers Fun Events For Tweens+ ADULTS!

The Santaluz Community has met the needs of residents in many ways in the past.  A new focus is on the” tweens”. What, you may ask is a “TWEEN”?? Well I guess in our growing sophistication when children graduate from being children but are not yet teens they are “Tweens”! In any case it is fun for everyone at Santaluz and we like to think all ages have their special activities.  I am waiting for the opportunity for my grandson to graduate into Camp Santaluz so he can have all the fun I see children 3+ having with their T-shirt  color coordinated counselors and peers! I think it is the growing trend that people want their children safe and in environments where they can have neighborhood friends, make new friends and have activities that they enjoy.  This also has the benefit of relieving Mom and Dad of “What to do with the kids???”…. Maybe so  Mom and Dad they can play???

Santaluz Fitness ZUMBA!

Ok, so what about Mom and Dad..what’s up in their corner to keep things hopping at Santaluz???? Who has heard of the Latest and I mean the “LATEST” fitness craze guaranteed to burn calories and get you back in your size 6 jeans ( for me I strive to keep the 12 jeans loose…more realistic)….Zumba!! And yes Santaluz is bringing this to front stage!

 So how much more fun can we have!!! Santaluz is all about community, knowing your neighbors, having fun with them and enjoying asll the California sunshine we can absorb.  We live in a perfect climate (sorry all you New Engenders including my brother Walter in Bedford, NH are having so much rain.  It was a little grey today with intermittent burst of sunlight..a light sweater was perfect.  Yes, we pay the cost of housing but what do we need??? Patios function as living space!  Santaluz homes seamlessly integrate outdoor living spaces with the interior.  The center court yards, covered loggias and loads of disappearing walls and or french doors remind allow us to dine al fresco, garden year round and spend as much time outdoors as possible.

CONSIDERING BUYING A HOME IN SANTALUZ?

WE ARRANGE WEEKLY TOURS OF HOMES IN YOUR PREAPPROVED PRICE RANGE INCLUDING TOURS OF THE CLUB FACILITIES!  Contact us!

 THINKING OF SELLING YOUR SANTALUZ HOME?  Do you want us to sell the Santaluz Lifestyle to get you TOP DOLLAR???  Let us show you the power of branding and INTERNET EXPOSURE! We are top selling agents in North San Diego County because we don’t just sell homes, we merchandise them, stage them, market them globally and sell your lifestyle!

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THINKING OF CONSIDERING SANTALUZ AS A PLACE TO LIVE??

We arrange weekly tours showing you the Club facilities and homes in your price range based on your lender preapproval!

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Santaluz Club Offers Outstanding Events for March 2010!

The upcoming events in the Santaluz Club for the month of March  include:

Santaluz, a premier gated residential neighborhood in North San Diego County is in full gear this season with both community and Santaluz Club events.  Living in this neighborhood affords a lifestyle like no other in San Diego.  It is a place for families to grow and residents to know and socialize with neighbors. The HOA fees vcover many seasonal events such as the Spring Fling which was held this past weekend and was a great success.  Go to http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/2010/03/27/spring-fling-at-santaluz-2010/.

The Santaluz Club   http://www.santaluz.com/aboutus/   is an equity club that offers 3 levels of membership; Hacienda, Spa and Golf.  Many residents enjoy the Hacienda which affords them the use of the pool,pool side grill, fitness,Basketball court, Fresh Roast Coffee Shop,Tennis courts Camp Santaluz and social activities.  The Spa level allows members to use a world class spa with massage, facials, nail services, steam rooms, whirlpools, locker rooms and the use of the club restaurant. The Golf membership allows members to use all the facilities as well as the golf course.  More information on fees can be obtained by calling Kelly Collins 858-759-3109 or emailing her at KCollins@thesantaluzclub.com.   The Santaluz Golf Course is a Rees Jones course covering 250 acres and will be limited to 400 members.  The views are breathtaking with vistas of the open canyons and ocean. With the near perfect year round climate residents can enjoy year round outdoor recreational activities.  This is a slice of paradise!

BUYING A HOME ?

To search for homes in Santaluz and other North San Diego County areas go to : http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/home-search/ and also send me a quick email of what you are looking for. 

Selling a Home?

Let us show you why all real estate agents are not alike and why we are in the Top 5  Network! Sell in a timely fashion for top dollar!

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Spring Fling At Santaluz 2010!

Spring Fling  at SANTALUZ 2010 was a greaty success again for 2010!

Many people don’t realize all the activities offered through out the year at this planned North County Community.  Spring Fling is one of many events put on for Santaluz residents and their families to enjoy.  The cost of these great events comes from a portion of the HOA dues residents pay for as homeowners.  There are seasonal events throughout the year.  Santaluz is known for its sense of community. It is a neighborhood where residents can enjoy the open spaces walking, hiking and biking and share their love of hobbies with the various clubs.  There is a wonderful club offering 3 levels of membership; Hacienda that is primarily for the pool and fitness, the Spa level which allows members to use the restaurant dining facility and SPA and the Golf Membership which involves the active use of the Rees Jones Golf Course.

We brought our 17 month old grandson, Ben to Spring Fling this year.  He was at the starting line for the Easter Egg hunt, not quite knowing that you keep the eggs in the basket vs. dumping them to share with the pretty girls, following his Mom through the play structure screaming in a combination of fear and delight, pouting while sitting in the Easter Bunny’s lap as he was not quite sure to make of the life size rabbit and dancing to the DJ’s tune (rock on Ben!)  We passed at the cupcake decorating and headed for the pool to cool down.  Many residents enjoyed a breakfast, face painting and just visiting with friends.  The next event will be the Summer Celebration where Santaluz brings in their own fireworks display and summer BBQ.

If you want to read more about Santaluz please refer to some of my other posts: http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/santaluz/

Santaluz Easter BunnySantaluz Spring FlingSantaluz Spring Fling 2010

Santaluz Spring Fling

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Santaluz: End of Month February 2010 HOME SALES STATS

Santaluz Home Sale Statisticss ending month of February 2010

Year to Date Pending Listings for Santaluz

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Year to Date Sold Listings for Santaluz

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Currently there are 54 homes for sale in Santaluz from $785,000 to $5,995,000.

Home for sale in Santaluz

Click here to get your very own VIP Home Search!!!

To read the January Sales and Price Report from C.A.R., please click on the following link, http://www.car.org/newsstand/newsreleases/januarysalesandprice/.

Santaluz Home Valuation:  Thinking of selling your home and need an assessment of current value based on today’s market condition?  We are here to help! We live, work and play in Santaluz!

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SANTALUZ IS DOG FRIENDLY! Meet Ophelia!

Ophelia

Santaluz is a wonderful gated community in North San Diego County built around an award winning Rees Jones golf course and offering miles of walking trails.  It is a community where you know your neighbors, meeting them at the Santaluz Club, walking, golfing, attending a fitness class,sharing a latte at Fresh Roast , lounging at the pool or engaging in a sponsored Santaluz Event.  Many of us know our neighbors because we greet each other with our  dogs as we enjoy some of these activities.  I am almost surprised they don’t let our favorite friends join us while playing golf!  Many times I greet someone and can remember their dogs name but have forgotten their name..a little embarrasing aince the dog can’t help me out!  We secure our 4 legged friends when we work out, enjoy their company when we have a quick meal at Fresh Roast and walk them throughout the community. 

 I first met Ophelia, a gorgeous yellow lab when her owners first moved in to Santaluz.  She was enjoying a nice walk with her mom and seemed so well behaved.  I soon learned there was a history behind her temperament and training. From the time I met Ms. Ophelia I was smitten with the Labrador breed.  Previously we had been cocker owners but Ms. Ophelia won me over to the labradorables and that is how I ended up with my “Max.”

Ophelia is a very special dog.  She was raised to be a guide dog for the blind.  She is the most well behaved dog I have ever encountered.  She was such as exceptional dog in the program she ended up having several litters of puppies and they in turn became trained, graduated with honors and have led lives helping others. She had all the best genes for the habits and temperament needed for dogs to be successful as working and companion dogs for the blind. Here are some more parts of her “BIO”:

 Favorite Santaluz Friend:  Kona Swigart (See a previous blog; http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/2010/02/24/santaluz-is-dog-friendly-meet-kona/

Santaluz is Dog Freindly!

 
Favorite thing to do in Santaluz :  To see Tim at Fresh Roast to get biscuits and Frosty Paws
 
Favorite Place in her Santaluz Home: Lounging by the pool soaking up the rays!
 
Favorite Santaluz Activity: Walking to the look out over the the Montien Gate in Northern Lights

Why her owners Enjoy SANTALUZ: Nique and Jan Waluk  lived in the Bay Area prior to coming to Santaluz.  ” The easiest way to describe where we live, is that it is by far the the most friendly community around.  I know that sounds corny, but it’s true.  There are so many things to do here that the nick name is “Camp Santaluz”  and I mean that for the adults!  Book groups, walking and hiking groups, cooking classes, Mahjong, Canasta, Bridge, Lunch Bunches, TGIF’s, and then there is everything that the Community Council provides, Summer fireworks, Easter egg hunts, Holiday parties with Santa, Movies on the Green, where neighbors can all gather on a summer evening, Ladies Spring Tea, Fall Harvest Festival, it’s all here behind the gates of Santaluz!”

If you would like a tour of the Santaluz area where homes start in the low $800,000′s and can exceed $5,000,000 for a luxury home that man’s best friend would find quite comfortable…let us give you a tour!  We have lived in Santaluz for 6 years and love the location, beauty, climate and residents! We are also available to give you information on other North San Diego County neighborhoods ! To do your own searches try this: http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/home-search/

If you would like to share something about your neighborhood with me let me know!!   GBPagnotta@gmail.com

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Santaluz Golf Membership A Great Opportunity!

The Santaluz Club
Same Great Club, Same Great Amenities, New Low Price 

Santaluz Club

 I just received this email from our membership director and want to share it with you…this is an unbeliveable opportunity!!! I have blogged about Santaluz and all the benefits of living in the community and of course the LIFESTYLE..well here you go!  Many times we look back and say “Do you remember when they offered the golf membership for $40k ..wow, we shoulda, coulda, woulda…well here you go!!!

 
Just a friendly reminder that the sun is about to set on the $40,000 Golf Membership Initiation fee.
 
Effective Monday, March 1st, the price will increase to $43,000.
 

Santaluz

If you have been considering upgrading your membership, we encourage you to take advantage of the current low price of $40,000.
If your friends or associates are interested in a Golf Membership at The Santaluz Club, please feel free to forward this email to them.
 
For more information, please feel free to call or email Kelly Collins.
 
Kelly Collins
Membership Director
The Santaluz Club
858-759-3109
kcollins@thesantaluzclub.com

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4 Key Factors in Selling Your San Diego Home in 60 Days or Less!

Great views from patio

We are asked over and over again from clients who are not listed with us “Why is my home not selling?”  When we take listings we review the criteria with our sellers so they understand why homes sell and what they can expect.  It comes down to 4 factors:

1. Location

2. Condition

3. Price

4. Marketing

All of these factors have to be in balance for a home to sell.  Let’s take a closer look:

Location of Property In Determining Value

Location involves the  town, zip code, neighborhood, site and traffic patterns.  Many clients want a specific school district so will give a little on the condition of a home to get their location for schools.  Some clients want a quiet street so will rule out a  home in perfect condition if it backs or is on a busy road. Some clients want a specific neighborhood such as 4S Ranch because they want their children to walk to schools and have beautiful parks and convenient shopping so they will put a huge priority on location.  My son is currently  looking for another home and he values a close commute to his employment so he will be willing to compromise on condition but not on location. That said it is clear you cannot change the location of a home but you can compensate with condition and pricing.

Condition of  Property in Determining Value

Inviting Curb Appeal

It does not take a continual diet of HGTV to understand condition plays a huge part in a homes appeal and value.  Tune in for a few shows as a quick refresher course!  No one wants to purchase a home in poor condition or that lacks appeal unless the price is drastically reduced. That said some people don’t want it at ANY price! They do not have the time, money or patience to fix a home in poor condition. It also can have the fear factor..what is wrong that I don’t see..is this a money pit????  Let’s talk about emotion..it is huge!  When you walk into a model home that is bright (every light is on), smells good (they make sure of this) and upgraded to the 9′s with designer furniture scaled to each room and upgraded to the max you immediately get that fluttering feeling of “I want this…or something pretty close!” It’s called merchandising!  Did you ever wonder why department stores showcase their clothes on size 4 models?  Do you think if they used a size 14 (average woman’s size) people would buy the stuff?  The same hold true with a home.  It must be clean as in immaculate and that includes windows, garage and kids rooms, smell nice (cleaning will do 75% and potpourri the rest), be in good repair and have some appeal.  If an agent cannot guide you room by room with this process get another agent.  We consider it an integral part of doing the job as a seasoned Realtor. A common term is staging the home to sell. The way you live in a home and the way you sell a home are two different things! I like to tell my sellers to start packing…you have to do it anyway so it is time to” pitch and ditch” and clear the rooms of clutter, extra furniture and your prized collections and family photos.

Pricing the Home to Sell in 60 Days or Less!

This is the most basic element of listing a home and has not changed since I have been in business (which is way too long, 1978). Homes must be priced after a thorough review of closed sales.  It is so simple but many sellers just feel their home is exceptional and some how the emotion will affect a buyer.  Emotional buyers have left the market long ago even with luxury homes whicj sell based on “want” not “need”  In comparing closed sales it is imperative to do a thorough analysis of ”like” yard size, views, upgrades, condition and location. There is a only so much value upgrades, views and features can add t0 the pricing of  a home.  Many times it makes the home sell faster but especially if the home is over improved  sellers cannot expect full dollar value.  We hear so often, “We put $100,000 into upgrades compared to the one that justsold.”  The upgrades that one seller selected may not have value to the current buyer and the appraiser can only give a percent of the cost.  Thje other thing to consider is the upgrades have been used and may even be dated.  I am waiting for the comments of “oh, another one with granite and stainless…wish it had the recycled glass and energy saver appliances.”  An appraiser has the final say in determining the price of the home after giving a plus and minus system to all factors.  Appraisers use the same information that agents have access to; closed sales of comparable homes. It is not an emotional or subjective process.  That is why a review of past closed sales (6 months max) in a given neighborhood of most comparable homes is the guideline.  Another good indicator is an average of market time.  Currently homes are selling quickly if priced with the market.  If a home does not sell within the first 3 weeks or is not getting significant showings and offers then a review of pricing is indicated.  The last thing a seller wants is a tired home.  It will actually sell for a lower price if left to marinate on the market and not have changes made to the price, condition and marketing based upon showing feedback and agent recommendations. The key is to ask each agent after a showing if their client submitted an offer on another home and if so what made them rule out your home.  Truth can hurt but will help you make some progress!

Marketing the Property To Sell in a Timely Fashion

Golf Course Views

The three factors discussed cannot work alone without creative and extensive marketing of the property.  The key in today’s world is internet exposure.  The key to internet exposure is search engine optimization of websites and presenting the property.  Buyers today live on the internet. Once someone finds they may have to relocate what is the first thing they do…search the internet for the area they are considering.  It starts with a broad search such as San Diego, then narrows down to Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Escondido….and progresses once they educate themselves to schools districts, commute times and neighborhoods.  That is why it is imperative for agents to have good search engine optimization so they( the buyers!) find you and your listings! It is also essential for an agent to have an easy to use IDX search which allows visitors to search the MLS data.  The calls and emails come in daily to me with requests for more information on areas and homes. Search Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Santaluz..there I am!!! Thank you google and the rest of the search engines..hard work pays off!

Selling a Lifestyle!

Prospective clients are looking at one thing with listings…pictures!  I cannot believe the poor quality of pictures that some agents submit to the MLS.  I advise people to look at what their agents have submitted..,.would they buy their own home based on the videos and pictures?  I have had to re shoot some homes because we did not get it right the first time.  It is important to have the maximum number of pictures and a video on all search engine websites. Professional photographers should be used and directed with the shoots. Pictures and remarks sell homes!!! The remarks have to create a lifestyle as well as the basics a home has to offer. If the home is in a planned neighborhood it helps to have a pictures of the community center, club, golf course or feature that creates the lifestyle of living in the neighborhood not just the house.

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Santaluz is a Dog Friendly Community…Meet Max…

Max and a Friend

Max of Santaluz

If there was ever a community that is dog (and people) friendly it is Santaluz.  Located in North San Diego County Santaluz is a well planned community offering a density of one home per 4 acres which provides ample open space and hiking rails.  A Rees Jones Golf Course centers the community and a world class Club house provides fitness, spa facilities, restaurant, pool, tennis courts and many organized adult, teen and children’s activities.  The dogs are not to be left out and are included in daily walks, ball throws and latte breaks!

Meet Max..or as he is formally registered; “The Grand Maximilian of Santaluz”.. He cost a grand (at a benefit auction..kind of spur of the moment decision brought on by 3 martini’s), he resides in Santaluz and he just looked like a “Max” at 11 weeks of age!  He is a gorgeous 84 pound bundle of love in a black Labrador. 

Favorite Santaluz Activity:  Chasing his ball in the 11 acre Center Green

Second Favorite Activity: Walking with his owners on the trails

A close second is waiting for his owners while they work out and being petted by the fitness staff, given treats and visiting with his favorite friends who are also waiting for their owners to finish their work outs..what a life!!

Favorite Place in his Santaluz House:  Basking in the sun as it pours through the dining room window.

Favorite House Activity: Playing ball with his 18 month old grand baby…love those long hallways!

Favorite Santaluz Friends:  Jetta and Vegas, also black labs that reside in Santaluz (!)

If you would like to have me feature your dog  please let me know!  Do you live in a dog friendly community..let’s hear about it!!

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Santaluz is Dog Friendly! Meet KONA…

Meet Kona, a Santaluz resident Dog!

Santaluz, a planned gated community in North San Diego County is as dog friendly as a community can get.  The miles of walking trails provide room for residents and their pets to enjoy long walks .  It is common place to see dogs waiting for their owners outside the fitness facility or basking in the sun while their owner enjoys a fresh brew at “Fresh Roast.”  I have decided to ask  resident dog owners to share their stories.  Being a “Dog Friendly Community” is just one more reason to consider Santaluz as a wonderful place to call home!

Meet Kona Swiggart: nickname is” Konaberry”born 10-10-08. Kona is also known as the “Velcro dog” as she is so loving and affectionate and just wants to stick to everyone who pays attention to her.  She is a gorgeous Vizsla, a Hungarian hunting dog breed.

Favorite Santaluz friend:  Sophie, a Giant Schnauser who is her neighbor. 

Favorite Activity to do in Santaluz:  Walk from her homeon Doug Hill to” Fresh Roast” for treats and affection from everyone she encounters. She considers it an especially good day if she can sniff some friends she meets along the way.

Kona

Favorite Place in her Santaluz Home:  Chaise lounge sofa in the back yard…her hideout to watch birds and golfers.

Favorite Activity her Owners Jim and Suzanne Swigart enjoy in Santaluz: 
“Jim and I especially love living in Santaluz.  we lived in Rancho Santa Fe for 10 years prior to coming here.  It is so calm and beautiful.  We always enjoy our walks in the community and enjoy the myriad of Santaluz Association activities including the Hiking Group. …the great people of Santaluz make Santaluz so amazingly SPECIAL!”

Kona at Ladies Lunch Group

If you live in Santaluz and want us to feature your dog please let me know!  Also if you live in another Dog Friendly community..shout it out and share this information!

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Literary Lunch in SANTALUZ A SUCCESS!!

Cute Stuffed Puppy on Each Place Setting

The Art of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein

One of the great things about living in Santaluz is the opportunity to socialize, meet new neighbors and enjoy wonderful events.  Elizabeth Davis, a resident of Verrazzano has organized a series of Literary Luncheons. The most recent was this past week and featured Garth Stein who wrote The Art of Racing In The Rain.  If you have not had a chance to enjoy this book race out today and purchase it or order it for your Kindle!

THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN
Garth Stein
Harper Paperbacks
Fiction

“In Garth Stein’s touching story, the appealing narrator is a dog named Enzo, who (of course) cannot communicate as he’d like to, by talking with his family. Instead, he pours his considerable heart and spirit into this book, sharing his experiences and reflections with readers. Although Enzo is frustrated with his limitations as a canine, he comforts himself with the fact that, according to a documentary he watched about Mongolia (Enzo is a dedicated television viewer), he will be reincarnated as a human. And he knows a lot about being a human after watching his master Denny Swift, who is a hero to him.”

The above was taken from www.Bookreporter.com to finish the review go to their website.

For those of you that own a dog this book will bring you tears of joy and some tears of sadness..a wonderful story!  The author had a difficult time getting it published because his agent believed no one would read a story that was written by the voice of a dog.  Boy that agent made a huge mistake! A movie is now in the works and the book has been on the best seller lists for weeks.

 The luncheon was held at the Santaluz Club and was enjoyed by Santaluz residents and their guests.  The chef prepared a wonderful lunch; Mushroom Ravioli Soup, Grilled Loch Duart Salmon and a Chocolate Tart for dessert.  The author chatted with guests, made a presentation and a reading and signed books at the conclusion of the event.  Each guest received a stuffed dog from their table setting which was a very cute idea!

Garth Stein at Santaluz Literary Luncheon

There are plans for several more Literary Luncheons at Santaluz thanks to Elizabeth Davis’s planning and hardwork..thank you Elizabeth! March 4th  Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni will do a reading of One Amazing Thing. Attendees will receive a copy of the book which they canhave signed as well as another wonderfully prepared lunch..thank you staff of Santaluz Club!!! On April8 Anchee Min will do a reading of her book, Pearl in China.  For those of you interested please send me an email so I can provide you with reservation information!

Subscribe to my blogs so you can learn more about the neighborhoods in San Diego North County including Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch, Del Sur, Poway,Scripps Ranch + more! Lots to share!

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