San Diego Home Info by Gretchen Pagnotta

Archive for the 'Rancho Santa Fe' Category

Building Your Custom Home in Santaluz or The Crosby

Major Considerations When Building a Custom Home in Santaluz or The Crosby

Are you considering building a custom home and interested in a gated golf community? If so you are probably considering Santaluz or The Crosby.   The most common questions I am asked are the following:

What does a lot cost in Santaluz or The Crosby?

There are more than 30 lots  in Santaluz on the market at this time, ranging from $449,000. Most of the lots have been combined with a “build to suit” option. Builders have some designs for homes and offer a “package” to the buyer. Currently there are 22 custom homes under construction in Santaluz. These are going to be some of the finest luxury homes available in San Diego. Most of these are being built for specific homeowners and not “spec builds.”  Most of these homes in the build to suit program are quite large 6000+ square feet.  There are 7 lots available in The Crosby, some with fabulous golf course views ranging from $750,000.

Are there minimum size restrictions (square feet) for building a home in Santaluz or The Crosby?

There is no minimum size restriction in Santaluz. That said all designs must be approved by the HOA. I do not know of any custom home in Santaluz that has been built with less than 4100 sq ft.  There are height restrictions as well as maximum sizes that a lot will accommodate. The Crosby has a 2500 sq ft minimum and again lots will have maximum depending on the size of the pads well as height restrictions.

What are major builders who are building in Santaluz or The Crosby charging for construction costs?

I have been quoted a general figure of $240.00-$300.00 a sqft which includes landscape.  That price is very dependent on the quality of the home, architecture and finishes. There are homes that cost in excess of $400.00 a sqft. I am happy to refer people to major builders in the area.  Just let me know if I can help you with this!

How do I finance a lot and the building process?

Many people pay cash for the lot and then get a loan for construction. There are lenders financing construction costs at very reasonable rates.

How long will the building process take in Santaluz or The Crosby?

Building in either community will take about the same time. It is always dependent upon HOA architectural  approval and submission of complete plans. Every major change to a plan will require HOA approval. Most people hire an architect and builder and then move forward with plans and finish selections.  Just designing a home can be a lengthy process.  I have a client that knew exactly what she wanted. She had seen a home and basically used the same design so her architect had a clear vision of what she wanted. The building process took less than 2 years from start to finish. A reminder that a buyer must carry the cost of the lot; HOA fees, taxes including Mello Roos and  lot maintenance during the building process.

What are the architectural restrictions Santaluz or The Crosby?

There are very specific architectural guidelines for each community. Each lot also has restrictions as to view corridors, height of building and pad size. The guidelines are available through the HOA’s. The architectural  styles have to complement the respective communities.  If you need help with this, let me know. [email protected]

How Do I Get Started Building a Home in Santaluz or The Crosby?

I can help you with finding a good lot, a builder, architect and financing. Contact me today! I also can show lots in Cielo, The Trails in Rancho Bernardo and other areas.

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Rancho Bernardo Real Estate Agent Receives Award

Five Star Award Given To Top Agents

I was recently awarded the Prestigious 5 Star Award which is given to fewer than 7% of agents in San Diego. To receive this award a former client has to nominate an agent. The criteria includes; outstanding service, ethics, integrity,market knowledge and professional standards.  It is an honor that a former clients have given me the highest evaluations in these areas.  Unfortunately we are not told who the clients are that are interviewed. An independent agency contacts people after a sale sending an information request. I want to thank my clients for being so thoughtful in taking the time to recognize my service to them. I am committed to maintaining the high standards I have always set and adhered to in conducting my real estate business.

My hope is that 2013 can be a less stressful year for buyers who are trying to purchase a home and get financing and for sellers in getting their homes sold! So far we are seeing the market in a much more positive light than we have experienced in the past few years!

I have specialized in North San Diego County representing both buyers and sellers.  I live in Santaluz (92127) a gated golf course community. I enjoy selling in Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Escondido, Carlsbad, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar and Carmel Valley.  I know the market well and include new construction when working with buyers negotiating thousands in upgrades and incentives for my buyers! I love the newer communities of Del Sur,4S Ranch and The Crosby!

If you need some real estate consultation in 2013 please let me know how I can help!

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Light Fixtures Adding Drama in Davidson Communities

 Miraval and Arista Are Beautifully Decorated!

Davidson Communities has always had a repuatation for building and designing beautiful homes in San Diego.  I recently toured 2 of their new products; Miraval and Arista, both located in North County. Miraval is minutes from Carmel Valley and Arista is in The Crosby gated community. The homes themselves were beautiful but the decorating was fabulous…fresh, innovative and full of style. What amazed me were the light fixtures which were everywhere…small lavatories had chandeliers, kitchens had multiple large fixtures, living rooms had oversized fixtures and the wall sconses…unbeliveable.  Hope you enjoy these…and if you want a tour let me know!  We save our buyers thousands in incentive credits when we negotiate new home sales!  Remember the builder sales people are agents for the builder representing the builders best interests! I am one of the top agents in San Diego and want to help you finding the perfect home that you can add your personal style to!

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San Diego February 2012 Home Market Trends

San Diego Board of Realtors Has Statistics for February 2012

The general comments and discussion among agent in the past 2 months has been “we are busy and inventory is limited.”  Naturally if you have had  your home for sale for some time and you hear someone say “inventory is limited” you wonder why you don’t have multiple offers.  In general the basic rules always apply; If a home is in a popular neighborhoods, presents well and is priced with the market based on closed sales you should be seeing offers.  Personally what I am experiencing is relocation buyers coming for good jobs with major employers in San Diego and people who are making offers and deciding to purchase rather than lease. The statistics will play themselves over the next few months.  I do not see any radical jumps in pricing but I see many more pending sales in all prices ranges which is a positive sign for recovery.

Click Image To Enlarge For Details

The Housing Market Reports

I found an interesting article on DSNews about how reports are made about market trends.  As agents we find many times the sites such as Trulia do not have accurate information. In addition some local papers provide inaccurate statistics.  We recently sat down with a title rep who reviewed all the coastal sales and told us how several coastal zip codes are misrepresented in reporting. that is why it is always best to look at a particular neighborhood and prepare closed sales and trends for that particular specific area.

If you need information on any areas of San Diego, let us know! [email protected]

To review other market trends you can go here.

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The Pagnotta Team Home Sale Incentives

Thinking of Selling Your San Diego Home?

If you are considering selling your San Diego home this spring we have some incentives for you.  To get the most money and the fastest market time your property needs to be clean, the  yard maintained and your home  staged  for sales success! We have a great team that can help you.  Once they are done we will do the rest with our Global Marketing Internet Marketing Program and all our professional gallery photography!

Pacific Carpet and Tile Cleaning

The LOGO these business owners use is “Best Cleaning on Earth.”  I have used them for my personal residence and also have referred them to clients.  They get outstanding results.  My carpet looks like new after they are done. They are professional in every sense of the word.  I found them on the  Yelp site and after reading positive reviews gave them a call. Glad I did!

Keep It Green Pacific Carpet and Tile Cleaning  uses a product that is soap free, odor free, all natural, colorless, non-allergenic, non-toxic and no VOCs according to their advertising.

  They are offering free family room cleaning with 3 room minimum. If you have other cleaning  needs they will offer you a discount  if you call them for The Pagnotta Team Incentive 760-908-6795 or go to their website; www.PacificSteamClean.com

Modern Image Landscape

It is so important to have good curb appeal.  This starts with having your yard looking its best.  You may need to add some color with some fresh flowers at the entry to greet buyers and your lawns in their best condition.  I have personally used Modern Image Landscape on several occasions to landscape my entire yard including building a pool.  The quality of workmanship is fabulous. Chris O’Quinn is wonderful to work with; professional, polite and he communicates openly and frequently.  He is offering 1 free month of landscape maintenance with a six month contract. To read more go to http://www.modernimagelandscape.com/ or call 619-247-3628. Jus mention The Pagnotta Team to get the white glove treatment!

Stage To Success

Many times people think of staging as decorating.  Many times it is “un-decorating.”  That said it takes a decorator/designer to see what needs to be done.  Staging allows buyers to see space and imagine their lifestyle to be complimented by your home.  Once your home is listed we will provide you with a complimentary staging service!  If in the meantime you need help please call Catherine Smith at 858-442-1889 and let her work her magic!

We are Top San Diego agents and would be happy to provide you with a current opinion of value on your home or condo.   We work in the coastal and inland communities of Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Santaluz, Del Sur, 4S Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Vista, San Marcos, Carlsbad and Scripps Ranch.

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Comparing Golf Clubs in San Diego

Santaluz Club Offers Outstanding Facilities For Members

We are always talking about how much we enjoy the Santaluz Club.  So many times clients ask us to compare the area clubs. The membership director at Santaluz provided us with the following comparison chart.  As always we encourage people to take a tour of the club they are considering joining. In addition it is really best to schedule a day of golf and the use of other club facilities.  Santaluz does a great job teaming up guests with members so they can get a first hand report card of the facilities. Besides being a beautiful club, Santaluz is just so friendly and welcoming.  If you have questions lets us know or if you want a formal tour we can help!

If you are interested in all the Golf Communities in San Diego go to my website :http://www.gretchenpagnotta.com/convertedpages/golfcourses.html

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Santaluz Seller Gives Testimonial

Testimonial from Santaluz Seller

Hi Gretchen, Thanks for selling our home. We appreciate all your efforts and enjoyed working with you and Alan. We are sending a testimonial on our experience with working with you and Alan. I’d like to thank Gretchen and Alan for their real estate professionalism and expertise in marketing and selling our home, especially in this difficult market.We were anxious to move to our ranch and had our home listed previously for three years. When we listed our home with Gretchen and Alan, they sold it within six months. They truly know and understand our community and how to market it. We highly recommend Gretchen and Alan for anyone wanting to buy or sell their property. Thanks again for all your efforts. It was a pleasure working with you both.Don and Katie Bloom

If you have a home to sell in Santaluz or another San Diego North County Community we would like to share our proven Marketing Plan with you!!

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8178 Run of the Knolls Court – Santaluz Home for Sale

Newly Listed 8178 Run of the Knolls Court in Santaluz – Virtual Tour!

Lovely Custom Home in Santaluz

If you are looking for a very private and well designed home that accommodates guests or live in family you will find this home to be the perfect fit!  It took more than a year to plan, design and build this gorgeous custom home that is loaded with thoughtful upgrades and the finest finishes. The .97 view lot is on a quiet cul de sac. Clients will love all the entertaining possibilities. The vanishing Weiland doors in the great room lead to an over sized covered loggia which can be used year round.  The salt water pool, bubbling spa and waterfall feature in the pool along with a BBQ Island, and 2 putting greens will allow for lots of relaxing and weekend fun for everyone!

Home lives like a One Story!

This home lives much like a One Story home with the master suite, 2 secondary suites and the guest wing all on the first floor. The Guest suite is self contained with a full kitchen, bedroom/bath, living room, hobby room and 2 car garage.  People who have regular guests or live in family will love this private yet contained wing.

Home Offices, Fitness Room

There are 2 offices on the 2nd level of this home as well as a large fitness room and bath suite.  The fitness room could easily be converted to a bedroom.  Exterior staircase access allows this level to be easily used as a home office.

Gracious living will be enjoyed in this property with  @6338 square feet and over 900 more square feet under roof in covered patios and loggia space. There is complete integration of exterior and interior spaces.

Some additional features include:

Four fireplaces, whole house EWS water filtration, surround sound,Insta-hot water in kitchen, 2 large water heaters, jetted master tub, 4 exterior fountains,multiple air cond and heating units for NRG efficiency and zoning, granite on all counters, Cantera Stone columns and exterior finish, 5 space garages (#/2), full bar in Game room with refrigerator and D/W,Alder wood cabinets and multiple built-ins, marble farm house sink in kitchen, Weiland disappearing door in great room, firepit, BBQ island with refrigerator and sink, pavers in driveway and lush well planned landscaping.

Enjoy Membership in the Santaluz Club

The Santaluz Club Spa level Membership is available to new owners providing Club Dining privileges, spa use, tennis, fitness and Camp Santaluz as well as many social functions. This membership may be upgraded to a Golf Membership to enjoy the award winning Rees-Jones course at Santaluz. This can be negotiable or done at buyer’s expense.  A close 30 minute commute to San Diego Airport this home is ideally situated close to all freeways, coastal beaches, major medical and shopping facilities.

Value Priced Santaluz Custom Home

Listed at $2,775,000 the sellers are looking at all offers and are motivated to sell this beautiful property. It could not be duplicated today at asking price! Contact Gretchen for a private tour of this home today.

For additonal info on Santaluz go to SanDiegoHomeInfoBlog.com/Santaluz

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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/

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52 Weeks of Fun in San Diego: Week 1

I decided it would be great fun to feature all the great “happenings” and resources in San Diego.  San Diego has so many great activities, events, shopping, restaurants and just plain fun things to do. So week by week I will highlight what I think people might like.  I welcome your comments and feedback!

Family Fun for the Week in San Diego

 Info taken from http://hotels.sandiego.org/-/hotel/99/official website is http://www.usopensandcastle.com/

Sandcastle Competition in San Diego

US Open Sandcastle Competition

Sand Castles at Imperial Beach

8/06/10 – 8/08/10

Date Night:  Go to the Movies!  

     I recommend: The Kids are All Right 

Taking Care of Yourself Tip of the Week

Shopping Place of the Week in San Diego

Carlsbad Premium Outlet Mall with over 90 stores!!! 5620 Paseo del Norte Carlsbad, CA 92008 760-804-9000   Mon – Sat: 10am – 9pm Sun: 10am – 7pm

Please send me your comments and suggestions:

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