San Diego Home Info by Gretchen Pagnotta

Archive for the 'Rancho Bernardo' Category

Santaluz Seller and Rancho Bernardo Buyer Testimonial

Santaluz Seller Shares a Positive Testimonial for the Pagnotta Team

 

“Our house in Santaluz had been on the market for 6 months with no activity. We then listed the property with Gretchen and Alan Pagnotta and within 30 days we had 3 offers. Alan provided comparative data to help us establish a sales price as well as financial data detailing the financial results of a sale at various prices. Gretchen helped my wife “stage” the house so that it would be attractive in all respects. Both were very proactive including handling all aspects of the sale while we were out of the country on a previously planned vacation. Gretchen and Alan also showed us a number of properties which accomplished our goal of reducing our housing expenses, while finding a home that fully satisfied our needs. We could not be more pleased with their professional and proactive efforts to assist us during a difficult real estate market. The results could not have been better!”   Ron and Dede Carlson

Real Estate is a challenging field especially with the current market conditions.  It makes all the hard work worth while when we can help people accomplish their goals.  There was a time just a few years ago where a home practically sold itself.  Today all efforts need to be taken to prepare a home, market the home through all advertising and internet sources, price it correctly and then to follow the ups and downs of the escrow process.  Lenders are making things very challenging with their strict guidelines.  It is critical in today’s real estate environment to select a Realtor with experience, negotiating skills, and creativity to accomplish both a sale and to represent you as a buyer.

We are so very thankful for the people that have put their trust in us over the years. We truly share in our clients enthusiasm when we find them a home that meets their requirements when representing them as buyers.  In addition we breathe the same sigh of relief when call to confirm a closing on a property they have sold. The opportunities today with low interest rates and a wide assortment of inventory make this a great time to consider a change in residence if your needs have changed.

San Diego Home Loans at All Time Low

                                                   

 

Refinance Your Home

I just refinanced my home which I purchased last September. It was beneficial for me to grab a lower interest rate which will pay for itself immediately since there were so few fees involved. Interest rates are at a record low so if you have been considering a purchase or a refinance now is the time to contact a reliable lender and see if you and your home qualifies.  It saved me $250 a month in payment..that is a considerable amount that can go into my retirement savings.  For people saving for college for their children that is $3000 a year which puts a small dent into the total cost.  Boy, glad those days are behind me. 

The values in the home market especially in luxury homes are at such attractive levels if you ever thought of “moving up” top a luxury home now is the time.  Luxury homes are selling below replacement costs and the selection is incredible! Seasonally this is also approaching the very best time for a buyer to purchase.  The market slows down in the fall months with people busy with back to school activities, the holidays and just not in the “I want to buy a home mood.”  The homes that have been on the market all summer will have price reductions as sellers become disenchanted with showings and lack of offers.  What a great time to negotiate for a home!

Lowest Interest Rates Since 1970!

According to a recent Wall Street Journal Article the interest rates for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages are in free fall, averaging just 4.44% on Aug. 12, according to Freddie Mac. Not only was that down from 5.07% in January, it was the lowest since Freddie began keeping records in 1970. So what are you waiting for?  For the rest of the article go to: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703723504575425734198113348.html?mod=WSJ_RealEstate_LeftTopNews.

San Diego First Time Buyers Have Great Opportunities

Although the credits for first time home buyers are not available the drop in prices can more than make up for any credits.  Sellers are willing to help with closing costs and again the values are no longer at the very bottom but are still very attractive.  San Diego is a very desirable city to call home and we will see a recovery. You will be glad you jumped in and did not ignore an opportunity.

Where the Best Home Values are in San Diego

Where are some of the great values…??? Luxury homes in Santaluz, Rancho Santa Fe,Del Mar and  Encinitas…are at  unbelievable prices.  There are homes that have been built to accommodate large families with actually living quarters for 2 families.  This is ideal for working couples who want live in Mom and dad help or for people who have extended visits from family members. You can get acerage, pools, tennis courts, work shops, horse property, views, golf, gated…you can have it all at truely unbelievable prices.  There are homes with every known amenity and feature..Dream Homes” that are truly a dream!

The prices of downtown condos are very enticing…remember the lines a few years ago?  San Diego is a desirable city and a global hotspot and these prices will not remain low forever as well as the attractive interest rates. Newer areas such as  Rancho Bernardo,Del Sur,4S Ranch, Stonebridge in Scripps Ranch, Poway,La Costa Greens, and newer sections of other North County neighborhoods have something for every budget.  Short sales are being approved faster and opportunities are there for serious qualified buyers.

Market Trends Indiate Fall of 2010 Time to Purchase a Home in San Diego

My  summary is simple:  great inventory and selection+ outstanding interest rates= time to buy Fall 2010! For market trends please go to my pages on individual cities.

Take these steps to get started:

1 .Contact me of you need a reliable lender.

2. Contact me if you need some marketing stats and trends.

3. Contact me to set you up with our 59559 Program.You can get instant information when you drive by any real estate sign! No hastle, so obligation, go to my blog:http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/2010/08/16/san-diego-home-buyers-dial-59559/

11217 Florindo Road Short Sale Approved

11217 Florindo Road in Westwood  Rancho Bernardo Short Sale Approved

If you are looking for a great home and a great value..look no further!  Buyer just walked which created an opportunity for you!  This is a 5 bedroom, 3 bath home, @2468 sqft with a view and fabulous updates.  The master and 2 bedrooms are on the 1st floor, 2 huge bedrooms, laundry room, bath and a bonus room are on the 2nd level. The yard is private and quiet.  The fabulous Westwood Community Club is available for the entire family to enjoy.  Best part …besides home, property and price…NO MELLO ROOS and a HOA of only $365 per year!

Lenders approved short sale at $515,000 but you have to hurry on this one!  VIEW: http://www.flashitfirst.com/Gallery/11217_florindo_rd_bt1/

52 Weeks of Fun in San Diego: Week 3

Enjoy a San Diego  Harbor Tour! 

This is my favorite thing to do when visitors come to town or I just want to be out on the water.  Each time you go there is a new person narrating so you get new information so you gain more knowledge of our beautiful city and harbor.  I  especially enjoy the excursions located at 1050 N. Harbor Drive at the Broadway Pier, 619-234-4111.  For a time schedule go to www.sdhe.com.  You can whale watch during the winter months but summer months are 1-2 hour tours of the North or South (or both) bays.  They also offer dinner cruises and group tours. Remember sunscreen, sunglasses, water, camera and a sweater. Discount tickets are available by going to: http://www.sdhe.com/pdf/SDHEcoupon_online.pdf   Enjoy!

Shopping in San Diego

This week I am all about discounts..try the following and let me know what you think!

1. http://www.groupon.com

2. www.Buywithme.com

3.http://www.sandiego.org/nav/Visitors/Resources/Coupons

4. http://www.dealon.com/san-diego/subscribe?ref=33

Date Nite

Enjoy the Summer Pops before summer is over!

Music from the Movies is Featured August 20/21: Star Wars, Harry Potter, Raiders of the Lost Arc,2001 Space Odyssey

Sunday August 22: Pops Goes Classical with a Passport to the World: A Night in France, Debussey,Bizet,Offenbach and more. Call 619-235-0804 or go to www.SanDiegoSymphony.comand for calender of artists: http://www.sandiegosymphony.com/calendar_index.php

 

Go to the new Restaurant in 4S Ranch: Miguel’s Cochina!!

I went here last week right after they opened..my impression was…music was too loud as in blasting (but they agreed to turn it down), menu was limited, service was very fast, parking was super ez, staff was friendly, food was a “B”.  But, they just opened and anything is better than Zocalo’s which they replaced. See my blog on this:http://sandiegohomeinfoblog.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=12008  I will go again and can recommend it for a fun rather inexpensive lunch or dinner in a convenient location.

 

 

 

 

 

 

52 Weeks of Fun in San Diego: Week 2

Dog Days of Summer 2010 August 14th

Where: Cardiff by the Sea: 131 Aberdeen Drive

When: Saturday the 14th from 10-3

What: Fun for the family including 4 legged friends; contests, food, music, doggie products, adoptions, raffle+ fun,fun,fun!  A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Rancho Coastal Humane Society. Bring your camera. Enter your dog in “cutest, biggest,smallest,best dressed and others!

For a list of times for contests go to: http://cardiffdogdaysofsummer.com/2010/contest-info.html

Save the Date: August 26:21st Annual Taste of Main Street

Go to: www.encinitastaste101.com Enjoy free food samples,live music, lots of fun, 6-9 Downtown Encinitas

Date Nite: Go to a Concert at Humpreys!

 Humphreys Concerts: this Thursday(17th) is Creedence Clearwater Revisited, Friday(18th) is David Koz and Jonathan Butler: Together Again, Monday (16th) is Rodrigo y Gabriela, Wednesday(18th) is Meat Loaf and Thursday(20th) is Bill Maher…

HumphreysConcerts.com, 2241 Shelter Island Drive, tickers at Ticketmaster 800-745-3000

Shopping in San Diego this week:

Go to the Farmers Market in DEL SUR!!! 

  Wonderful for fresh flowers, baked goods, fresh local produce, entertainent+ more! The Farmers Market is Del Sur also has entertainent for the kids and some boutique items.  Located at the intersection of Camino del Norte (take this exit off 15) and Lone Dove close to 4S Ranch it is held on Thursdays from 3-7.  See you there!

Fitness Activity for the Week: Hiking in San Diego

It’s free and great exercise and the overcast morings with cool air make this a perfect exercise! Go to http://www.sandiegohikers.com/

anddecide if you are going to try the Lake Poway to Mt. Woodson or Sunset Cliffs or Torrey Pines hike. Don’t forget water, sunscreen, snack bar, cell phone (emergency),camera and good hiking shoes or boots. Also beware of our local snakes hiding…look before you step off rocks, etc…Have fun and write and tell me how you did!

Get out, get active, try new things and new places to go..we live in a great city..tell me your favorites! By the way the gorgeous dog in the picture is my Max, 84 lbs of love..my labadorable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rancho Bernardo: Focus on Bernardo Heights

Bernardo Heights in Rancho Bernardo 92128

Bernardo Heights is a master planned community with 18 subdivisions and something for everyone….Single-family homes, patio homes, luxury custom homes, Condominiums and  Apartment complexes. 

The average price today for a Condo is $349,560.

  Single family homes range from $405,000 to $798,000 and luxury homes are $949,000+.

Bernardo Heights is located near Rancho Bernardo High School, Bernardo Heights Middle School, shopping, restaurants and medical facilities. 

 

Residents of Bernardo Heights have the opportunity to enjoy the Bernardo Heights Community Center, Lucido Park and the Bernardo Heights Country Club.

 

The Bernardo Heights Community Center has a Jr. Olympic swimming pool, spa, ping pong tables, 4 lighted tennis courts, exercise room, billiards room, meeting rooms, small billiards games room, kitchen, basketball court and BBQ/picnic areas.  Various activities are also offered at different times of the year.  The Community Center is located at 16150 Bernardo Heights Parkway. Go to www.bernardoheights.org

 

 

Lucido Park is a private park included with the Bernardo Heights Community Center.  This park has 4 tennis courts, walking trails, BBQ/picnic areas, playground and practice soccer pitch. 

 

     The Bernardo Heights Country Club is a private golf course giving the surrounding homes a breathtaking view.  Members are also owners of the club and do not have to live in the area. It is a 18 hole, par 72 course on 168 acres and 6700 yards. Under 40 “Junior Executive” payment plans are available and optional “snowbird” fee exemptions.  The Country Club is located at 16066 Bernardo Heights Parkway.   Go to www.bhcc.net for more info!

 

The community is controlled by CC+R’s (rules) which keep the area to standards of conforming zoning and have attributed to its consistent value and popularity. There are several neighborhoods that area gated and perfect for retirees.

 

 

Gated Masters Hill in Bernardo Heights

 

For more information on Bernardo Heights and a list of current homes available please email me! 

 

 

 

 

14517 Caminito Lazanja: New Listing SANTALUZ

Former Model Just Listed in Santaluz by Santaluz Realtors Gretchen and Alan Pagnotta!

Exceptional 4 bedroom, 4 bath, @ 3144 sqft. home reflects the true essence of the Santaluz Community. This property is filled with architectural interest and style. there is a complete integration of the interior with exterior patios and space with four sets of french doors leading you out to enjoy the California sunshine. You will enjoy near perfect weather with this coastal close Santaluz location.
The upgrades in this home are too numerous to list. Model homes are known to be “over the top” and this is no exception. The entry inlaid design in natural stone welcomes you and the stone flooring leads you into the main living areas of the home. Beamed ceilings and ample use of crown molding accent high ceilings. Natural light floods this home with multiple windows and doors. The window treatments are custom and tastefully selected. The kitchen will not disappoint the most demanding home buyer. The cabinets are warmly stained, stainless appliances include a newer Fisher+Paykel dishwasher, Monogram refrigerator, DCS 6 burner gas stove/oven with over sized hood, GE microwave and a walk in pantry.

The home features 3 fireplaces; family room, living room and master suite.
There is an office on the first level which could be an entry level bedroom with the addition of a closet. Currently it is used as a home office with custom built in partners desk and floor to ceiling bookshelves. There are 3 bedrooms+ a fitness room on the second level. All bedrooms have full tub/baths. All bathrooms have lovely designer selected tiles and custom work. The master has a new floor with attractive inlaid design.

Al Fesco dining will be enjoyed under a covered loggia anda BBQ island is closeby.  The yard is absolutley gorgeous with flowering shrubs and a grassy area.  An attractive gate closes off the driceway so the property is secured for pets and children and the space can be enjoyed for entertaining.

A fitness room is located off the master bedroom.  This space could be used as a 2nd home office.

The garage is no exception to the upgrades and pristine condition. The epoxy flooring is easy to maintain and there are ample custom storage cabinets.  This is a home for someone who wants to move into an immaculate gently lived in home that is loaded with upgrades andexceptional custom features to be enjoyed! The sellers may consider purchasing a membership in Santaluz Hacienda Level Club or the buyer can elect to purchase this for $12,500. This would allow use of the Santaluz pool, Fitness, Camp Santaluz, Fresh Ropast Coffee Shoppe and many social events.

Please refer to my other blogs on Santaluz; www.SanDiegoHomeInfobog.com/Santaluz. Santaluz is located in92127 and part of acclaimed Poway Unified School District.

Please contact me to see this home …showings are by appointment only and Open Houses will be extremely limited as requested by owners. Click here for Virtual Tour.

RBBA Farmers Market every Tuesday from 3-7 pm

For more information please call me at 760-715-0478 or visit my website, www.SanDiegoHomeInfo.com.  Thank you!

Del Sur New Construction Spring 2010!

4 Builders are Offering New Homes Now in Del Sur!

Del Sur is one of my favorite communities.  It is unique and innovative in design and planning.  It is also a green community embracing the best green building and environmental concepts.  Only 4 years old what was an idea is now a well planned community offering a variety of housing for every type of buyer. It is conveninetly located with access from Rancho Bernardo or the coast .It is within the 92127 zip code.  From the coast take 5North, exit 56 east, Camino del Sur exit and head east past Santaluz to DEL SUR! Currently the homes in construction are:

Mandolin by Shea Homes

These homes range from 1878-2,333 sqft and are priced from $480,000.These are condominium homes in 3-4-5 home motor court “clusters”. They are multi level and offer pizazz with jazzy kitchens, balconies and other architectural features and 2 car garages.  These are not your “stucco box” condo buildings..these are fashionable “hip” homes that will be fun and easy to live in..turn key and go!

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Del Sur: A Wonderful Neighborhood to Call HOME!

What makes Del Sur so special?  I love the style of the various homes.  The streetscape are so interesting and offer so much variety.  You see Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean,Rustic Cottage, Bungalow, and Farmhouse styles with complimentary color schemes and architectural elements such as balconies and court yards.  There is something for every buyer with condominiums arranged in motor courts, twin homes, small homes suiting the needs of empty nesters and small families as well as large semi custom homes with large yards and pools.  The landscaping is well planned with drought resistant plantings, 140 olive trees and other native California and Mediterraneanvarieties offering color, texture and variety. The street lights were planned to look like 18th century gas lamps. The stonework on walls and the Haaland Glen Bridge which is landmark to the community is done in a style which reflects work done in the past century. It is the attention to details which makes this community so appealing and welcoming.

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