San Diego Home Info by Gretchen Pagnotta

5 Steps To Get Top Dollar For Your Home Step #4

Attention San Diego Home Sellers!!  Tell me What You Want!

I have written 3 blogs on this subject in the past few weeks.  So far we have covered:

1. Setting The Price

2. Preparing the Home For Sale

3. Creating The Sizzle

Now I want some input from you the customer! I love that word, “customer”. I use it often when seeing all types of people that provide me with a service including my doctors.  Many people use the term “clients” but my belief is that all salespeople need to treat the people who are considering giving them their business as “customers.”  In order to do this effectively we need obtain information as well as provide information. So, San Diego homeowners here is your chance to let me (as well as other real estate agents that read this) what your expectations are in a real estate agent who you are considering contracting with to sell your property.

Let’s explore the following topics:

PRICING YOUR HOME

  Most real estate agents review what is available, what is in escrow and what has sold in the neighborhood their seller lives in. My husband goes 3 steps beyond this and graphs median prices, averages and a standard deviation.  We also have viewed all the homes that are currently on the market the  so we can provide our sellers with accurate information on how those homes compare with location, features and upgrades. Many times we have also seen the homes that have closed escrow.

  Do you feel as a seller you will rely on this information in arriving at a price or do you want an agent to take the figure you have decided to use based on your own opinions/research. Also are you familiar with what we call Value Range Pricing where a range is given; “Seller will entertain offers between $599,900-$649,900.”

STAGING YOUR HOME For A Sale

Do you have expectations that your agents will help council you in staging your home? Are you willing to move furniture, store some items and purchase some items if it will make your home sell faster.  If so what would you consider a reasonable budget for this? WE routinely walk a home and make suggestions room by room, see my blog on staging. Staging may not bring you more money although statistics have shown in most cases it does but I can assure you it leads to more interest and a faster sale. Also do you think this is a skill real estate agents should have or do you think it is reasonable to pay for a consultation from a person who does this for a business?

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SHOWINGS

Showing instruction are stated in the MLS for agents to follow when they need to set a time to view a property.There are many ways to schedule showings.  Homes can be shown with a lock-box where agents call the owner and if they do not reach them leave a message for a time they will show the home . The home can be shown with an “Appointment Only” where an agents who has the buyer must contact either the listing agent or the owner to set a specific time to show the home. They may then either use a lock box if one is allowed, be shown the home with an agent or seller.  Some people believe the higher priced homes are shown by appointment with the listing agent but we actually see many luxury homes on a lock-box especially if they are vacant. As a seller what do you think would be your preferred method of having your home shown?

ADVERTISING YOUR HOME FOR SALE

Research has shown a very small percent of homes sell off of print ads. That said the weekend newspapers are full of print picture ads.  As a seller what are your expectations of advertising your home? If you were a buyer how would you begin your home search?

INTERNET EXPOSURE IN SELLING YOUR HOME

The percentage of people searching the web and ending up buying a home from their searches keeps rising. Lets face it, we search for almost everything on line.  The information is everywhere, Realtor,com, Trulia, individual websites, blog sites (your are reading this),zillow and the list goes on.  Same question, if you as a seller were looking for a home where would you look? What are your expectations for your agents. Would you expect a virtual tour, exposure on the major search engines, U-Tube..tell me what your expectations would be.

COMMUNICATION THROUGHOUT THE LISTING

My husband and I pride ourselves on this topic.  We communicate because time and time again our customers have told us they did not get adequate communication from a real estate agent they had formerly worked with.  We like to discover what our sellers prefer, email or phone contact with updates.  Updates include hits on the internet (Realtor.com makes it super easy), our personal websites, showing feedback, market activity and suggestions for price adjustments and objections to overcome.  Your are in the drivers seat…how often would you like to hear from your agent and what information do you want them to provide and in what format?

OPEN HOUSES SELL HOUSES

So many times we hear that sellers think Open Houses” are good for the agent in bringing them buyers but not in selling their home.  I agreed with this up until the Internet provided so much information. My husband and I hold regular open houses as we see so many buyers preferring to come to open houses once they have researched the Internet.  Most have not established a loyal relationship with a real estate agent.  We strongly feel it gives a seller a strong advantage to let their neighbors know their home is for sale and to take a peek.  Neighbors can be a huge source of potential buyers as they tell their friends, business associates about a home for sale in their neighborhood. After all most people do like where they live! In addition it is a way for busy working people to view homes in neighborhoods they are considering without necessarily having to make an appointment with an agent. As a seller do you value or see the importance of Open Houses? Would you want them and at what frequency? Have you ever sold one of your homes from an Open House?

So these are some of the hot topics but please, don’t hold back! Tell us what you want when selling your home!  Oh, and by the way we know you want to pay 1%  but that was not part of the discussion. Just a reminder though on this subject. Commissions are negotiable with brokers.  That said you will not get Nordstrom Service and Quality for Kmart pricing.  You do however deserve the highest degree of service from full service brokers and that is why we want to hear from you, THE CUSTOMER! Email me!

If you live in Del Sur, 4S Ranch, Santaluz, Penasquitos, Poway or Rancho Bernardo and need to have an evaluation on the value of your home please let us know! No obligation!

For Market Trends in North County click here!

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Lots of Lots: Great Time to Build a Custom Home in San Diego!

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Build a Home in San Diego

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Large Inventory of Buildable Lots

A few years ago I had a client looking for a good lot to build a 5000 sqft custom home in either Rancho Bernardo or Poway.  Let me tell you the “pickens were slim.”  Each lot available was the “last of the last” with numerable obstacles to overcome.  That in plain English means money to be spent in grading, getting environmental approval for weird things like a rare shrub or endangered bug. In the  end after an exhausting search we found a nice lot..certainly not a bargain but the client was happy and could move forward with the dreaming part of of planning”The Dream Home.”

Fast forward to 2010..lots and lots of lots for sale at great values!  Now someone can actually take the time to walk lots, evaluate views (they actually have them) and build just about anything they want.  In Santaluz alone there are a number of bank owned lots with prices that range from the low $400′s.  You can select views of the ocean, fairways, golf course, mountains or all four!  You do have to build within the Architectural guidelines of Santaluz and that assures you the neighborhood will always look like a village in Tuscany. There was a time when you grabbed whatever was left and paid a premium for it! The Trails section of Rancho Bernardo has lots due to the fire.  This area was completely built out.  It is popular as there is no Mello Roos and some of the views are breathtaking. There have been residential lots in Westwood and Montelena in Rancho Bernardo.  These have been snapped up quickly by builders who have quickly built and sold production type homes.

Building Costs in San Diego

A custom home (CUSTOM) with all the bells and whistles can be built for $250.00 sqft.  This was figure quoted to me by a very high end reputable builder.  I have seen his work and believe me it is not Home Depot off the shelf. If Expo was still in business it would also not be expo…it is selections that take time and $ from a zillion catalogues or better yet from a designer who has impeccable taste. When you build a custom home do not use HGTV as your reference.   What most people do not realize is the cost is not only in design and structure but the finishes; choice of fixtures, hardware,granite, appliances,  tile, cabinetry and energy saving features.  Builders many times include pools and hard scape as part of their building costs. My advice is to research builders and get referrals from agents, friends and people that have built in an area you are considering.  Their work is their resume.

Financing New Construction

Consider Building With Lots Bargain priced!

There was a time when financing was pretty simple and the lenders would take risks.  Those days are long gone.  Currently it is advisable that the cost of the lot is paid in full and also a portion of the home may require more cash.  There is money “out there.”  I just helped a client secure a sizable building loan but it took some research and the client had a very solid credit history and documented income.  Remember the lenders do not want to take any risks so if you are a borderline borrower building may not be an option for you unless you have considerable cash to put down(more cash=less lender risk.

6 Important Things to Consider Before Building a Home in San Diego

1. Make sure your marriage is rock solid: get counseling if you see some cracks in the surface.  Building is emotional and takes one person to be in control (not 2) and a blending of egos.

2. Get your financing in order prior to looking at any buikding plans. Line up a financing package and know you can live with the bottom line.

3. Interview reputable builders and view their finish products.  Speak with the owners and ask them one question: “Would you let Mr. Finebuilt construct another home for you?…and “what would you do differently if you were to build today?”

4.  Start looking at lots and communities.  Remember you are not just building 4 walls..you are going to be living in a community so fall in love with the area first.

5. Work with a reputable, trustworthy experienced agent that has the patience of a saint.  Purchasing a lot is the key step in the “building your dream home.” You need to spend the time in selecting the most important element in the process. The agent needs to put in the time to research the area, building restrictions, CC+R’s, building size permitted, architectural guidelines, easements, utilities, environmental issues and zoning.

6.  Consider adding as many Green Features and Energy Smart Features to your home.  There are builders that specialize in this and can follow a “LEED” protocol in design and building.

Lots for Sale in Ranch Bernardo:92128

$298,000 for a small residential lot

The Trails: $449,000-689,000: 1-2 acres and some with fabulous views..no Mello Roos!

Lots for Sale in Santaluz:92127

42 Lots are for Sale! Some lots are valued at 1/2 of what they originally sold for!

$295,560 for 1.1 acres-$1,500,000: It’s all about view and reality.

$389,900 lot sold previously for $680,000, $395,000 sold previously for $657,000

Lots for Sale in Cielo:92067

16 lots are for sale ranging from $299,000-$950,000 some with views to Mexico.

One example is a lot for $499,000 which previously sold for $728,000

Lots for Sale in Crosby:92127

12 lots are available priced between $545,000-$1,300,000

One example is a lot for $599,000 which has a 16,000 sqft pad, another is a lot listed for $649,000 which previously sold for $1,300,000 and includes home plans.

So if you have always wanted to build your idea of a Dream Home, now is the time to purchase a lot!  Buy the lot, sit on it, design your home and then start building while marketing your present home. Let us make your dream a reality!

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Ready set: email us to get started! GBPagnotta@gmail.com

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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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BEST MLS PHOTO OF THE MONTH – POWAY

As a Real Estate agent, I have to preview many homes each day.  Here are a few of the beautiful homes that are currently on the market with cooperating agents.  I am always looking for the best pictures displayed in the MLS!

Best Curb Appeal

This lovely home has a very well manicured yard.  You can really see the pride of ownership!  Offered for just over $1,000,000,

this home has 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3,029 square feet and sits on a 1.85 acre lot.

I can’t think of a better way to enjoy the hot summer days than to invite my friends and family over for a nice relaxing day by this pool.  This home features 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3,716 square feet and sits on a 19,884 square foot lot.  The sellers are offering this home for just over $1,000,000.

Best Pool

Best Kitchen

Get ready to dust off the cook books and treat your family to a gourmet home cooked meal in this wonderful kitchen.

Offered for just under $1,000,000, this home has 4 bedrooms,  4 bathrooms and 3,531 square feet.

If you would like more information about any of these homes, or any other home in Poway, please give Gretchen or Alan Pagnotta,” Windermere Top 20 agents” a call at 760-715-0478 or email me at GBPagnotta@gmail.com.  You can also visit my website at www.SanDiegoHomeInfo.com.

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POWAY End of Month May 2010 Home Sales Stats

Poway Year To Date Home Sales

Year to Date Sales - Click for larger view

There are currently 195 homes for sale in Poway.  These homes range from $249,900 (1,374 sq. ft.) to $12,900,000 (15,844 sq.ft.). 

Beautiful Poway Kitchen

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, we would be glad to help.  Please call us at 760-715-0478 or GBPagnotta@gmail.com.

Please visit our website at www.SanDiegoHomeInfo.com. 

Awesome Pool & Views From This Poway Home

GREEN TIP OF THE MONTH:

Looking for a place to donate your old towels, pillows, blankets, jackets/coats???  Your local Animal Shelter or Humane Society can use them for bedding/bathing. 

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POWAY End of Month April 2010 Home Sales Stats

Poway end of the month home sales for April 2010

Awesome sunset from a Poway home for sale

290 homes are for sale in Poway from $290,000 for 1,011 square feet to $4,650,000 for 10,166 square feet.  To view the year to date home sales, please click on the picture below:

Click for larger view

Seller Tip Of The Month:

When you have a showing, make sure all lights are turned on.  During the day this will prevent shadows from sunlight and brighten dim areas.  At night, a well lit home creates an inviting impression when buyers drive up. 

Thinking of selling your home????  Give us a call at 760-715-0478 for a FREE market analysis.  You can also fill out the form below!

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Best MLS Photos Of The Month For Poway

BEST MLS PHOTOS OF THE MONTH FOR POWAY

This gorgeous home located in The Heritage Neighborhood of Poway is just stunning and features 6 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms and 7,828 square feet.

Best Kitchen

Best Kitchen

Best Living Room

GREEN TIP OF THE MONTH

Did you know that about 90% of the energy used to wash clothes is just in heating up the water?  Switch to cold or warm water and a cold water use detergent to save money and energy. 

If you are interested in selling your home and would like a no obligation market analysis, please give us a call at 760-715-0478.   We would love to help!

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POWAY End of Month March 2010 Home Sales Stats –

POWAY Home Sales Are Active!!!

Beautiful Lake Poway

There are 167 active listings in Poway ranging from $264,900 (1,089 sqft.) to $12,900,000 (15,844 sqft.).  The average year to date sold price is $600,189.

Home for sale in Poway

Year to Date Sold Listings for Poway

Click for Larger View

GREEN TIP OF THE MONTH

Save energy by turning the heat down before you get in bed.  You can also stay warm by putting a blanket under the fitted sheet when making up your bed.

Thinking of selling your home and need an assessment of current value based on today’s market condition?  We are your Poway Home Real Estate Specialists!

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Best MLS Photos for Poway Homes this Week

Best Curb Appeal:

“This home was just listed in the Palisades neighborhood of Poway and features 5 bedrooms, 3,602 square feet and sits on 1.49 acres.  It is selling for under $1,300,000. Queen palms, circular driveway..wow, this is why we pay the big bucks to live in Southern California!”

Best Pool Home:

This custom Poway home features 4 bedrooms, 4,495 square feet and sits on a 2.12 acre lot.  I would be praying for hot…hot…hot summers so I could enjoy this pool!

Best Kitchen:

This home was recently listed and is located in the Heritage neighborhood of Poway.  This gorgeous home has 8 bedrooms, 10,166 square feet, 10.15 acres and is listed for just under $4,800,000.  The comments say this beautiful kitchen has been remodeled.  I guess I could forego Nutrasystem boxes and get in the mood to cook in this great kitchen.

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