It is the official "busy" selling season. Every year, as the tax deadline looms and the sun starts to shine more, people start thinking about buying, selling or both. It is inevitable that once the new year hits, then super-bowl passes, people really start turning their wheels about this whole "house thing"!
Also this time of year, the school year is more than half over, kids start getting spring fever and the teachers prepare in a wild dash for open houses, science fairs, field trips, report cards, testing.....It is also when baseball and softball are in full-swing. I am sure I am missing something, but, I think you get my point....it is just plain busy!
This school year marks my first of two serving in a volunteer position at a local elementary school as PTA President. I have spent every year of my children's school careers volunteering in various capacities of PTA. I thoroughly enjoy having a hand in the programs my children experience with the funds I have helped to raise and budget. I also enjoy watching a team of volunteer parents, many of which work "outside of the home" as well. When I think about the major feats we conquer - just as one small schools' PTA, I am almost overwhelmed at how much of a difference each person truly makes.
One of the things which attracts potential buyers to a new place to live is the sense of "community" they feel. If there are buzzwords for buyers with young families they are "community", "Good schools", "home-town feeling". And when I work with a buyer like that - I know exactly what they are looking for. Because no matter where you are -- California, Nevada, Oregon, Hawaii, if you are looking for a place that feels like "home", it is usually a place that offers a sense of community. Community - when used as a verb means the volunteer parents working the fields preparing for each game, shopping the big box store to stock the snack bar, crunching the numbers to maximize the last fundraiser, having a yard sale to support their scout troop, helping the lost child, housing the lost and tag-less dog (thanks to my neighbors, the Mikesells), etc.
Besides your family, friends and pets, what makes a home to you? If you don't already, I encourage you to get involved in your community and volunteer even a small portion of your time. Helping build something brings people together! And, in reality, it will help your property values as you maintain your community spirit!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Thursday, January 5, 2012
New, new, new!
This is the month we, as consumers are hit with weight loss plans, planning calendars, organization systems, etc. all in the name of starting new -- starting fresh -- new beginnings! So here we are, January 2012! What have you decided to do "new" this year? What are you looking to renew?
As a goal oriented person, I always make "new" goals this time of year. My husband and I have professional and personal goals -- short and long term. When we bought our first house, it was the realization of a long-term goal -- and it felt wonderful. Sometimes, in a world that changes constantly, and is about new beginings on a cyclical basis, it is nice to have some constants.
For many people, the constant is their home. I love real estate because it is the realization of someone's long term goal when they buy a home. Even selling a home is usually part of a new plan with some good goals attached.
I am a fourth generation Glendoran, and as such I can still walk past the first house my great-grandfather built here in town (On Leadora Ave). My kids, fifth generation Glendoran's, do not yet realize how lucky they are to have so many constants around them. Even though we are surrounded by family history, my grandfather eventually moved up to Redding to retire (not before he built some more there).
Moving is synonymous with change, and change can be wonderful. If you plan to move this year, and need someone who will work for your best interest -- and who is a full-time realtor with roots in town (and extended roots to Temple City) -- give me a call. I can and will work hard to make your dreams a reality.
As a goal oriented person, I always make "new" goals this time of year. My husband and I have professional and personal goals -- short and long term. When we bought our first house, it was the realization of a long-term goal -- and it felt wonderful. Sometimes, in a world that changes constantly, and is about new beginings on a cyclical basis, it is nice to have some constants.
For many people, the constant is their home. I love real estate because it is the realization of someone's long term goal when they buy a home. Even selling a home is usually part of a new plan with some good goals attached.
I am a fourth generation Glendoran, and as such I can still walk past the first house my great-grandfather built here in town (On Leadora Ave). My kids, fifth generation Glendoran's, do not yet realize how lucky they are to have so many constants around them. Even though we are surrounded by family history, my grandfather eventually moved up to Redding to retire (not before he built some more there).
Moving is synonymous with change, and change can be wonderful. If you plan to move this year, and need someone who will work for your best interest -- and who is a full-time realtor with roots in town (and extended roots to Temple City) -- give me a call. I can and will work hard to make your dreams a reality.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Happy Holidays and Welcome 2012!
As I begin this post, I am sitting at my office desk surrounded by calendar magnets and Christmas Cards. As I address envelopes, I realize a great number of my family Christmas cards are also going to include a calendar magnent (saving the environment one combined mailing at a time!) The reason, though, is that many friends are clients and clients are friends. I am sincerely thankful to each friend that has also been a client. It is a true testimony to be able to say friends choose me - it is a true blessing, indeed!
As I look back on my year, it has been a whirlwind of activity. The real estate market has not been any easier, but I have been able to close deals and get people where they'd like to be -- or need to be -- and that feels great!
I thank each of you that has chosen me - or referred me - this year. As I have sold from Temple City to Fontana, I can say I put my heart into each transaction. And I am thankful for the friendships I have nurtured through the integrity I have in my business.
By the way -- RATES ARE RIDICULOUSLY LOW! Buy or refi if you can -- you'll be so glad you did!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Stacy
As I look back on my year, it has been a whirlwind of activity. The real estate market has not been any easier, but I have been able to close deals and get people where they'd like to be -- or need to be -- and that feels great!
I thank each of you that has chosen me - or referred me - this year. As I have sold from Temple City to Fontana, I can say I put my heart into each transaction. And I am thankful for the friendships I have nurtured through the integrity I have in my business.
By the way -- RATES ARE RIDICULOUSLY LOW! Buy or refi if you can -- you'll be so glad you did!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Stacy
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Hello, Fall!
There’s an older children’s book called Now it’s Fall by Lois Lenski I read each year to my kids as the season’s change – the beginning and end are the same….
“Summer’s over,
Now it’s fall -
Just the nicest time of all”
It is a basic rhyme that holds a lot of truth to it! Fall is here – a time to harvest what was worked on throughout the year. A time to clean out, start over, make changes….the last few months of a year, one last chance to make it end on the right note!
If you have been watching the news, reading a magazine or newspaper, you are probably aware that the economic recovery has been slow in the United States (and many parts of the world). What this year has taught many of us is that once again, with interest rates low and prices rock bottom, it has been a fantastic year to buy a home. For those with equity, it has been a great time to sell. Buyers are coming out of the woodwork with cash, or large down-payments, or just highly credit-qualified. Over 60% of the population can now afford the median home price in LA County. That statistic is truly remarkable.
Have you been on the fence about moving? Are you ready to make a change? Why not now? After all, “summer’s over, now it’s fall…Just the nicest time of all!”
Warm Regards,
Stacy Dover
REALTOR ®
DRE #01768476
“Summer’s over,
Now it’s fall -
Just the nicest time of all”
It is a basic rhyme that holds a lot of truth to it! Fall is here – a time to harvest what was worked on throughout the year. A time to clean out, start over, make changes….the last few months of a year, one last chance to make it end on the right note!
If you have been watching the news, reading a magazine or newspaper, you are probably aware that the economic recovery has been slow in the United States (and many parts of the world). What this year has taught many of us is that once again, with interest rates low and prices rock bottom, it has been a fantastic year to buy a home. For those with equity, it has been a great time to sell. Buyers are coming out of the woodwork with cash, or large down-payments, or just highly credit-qualified. Over 60% of the population can now afford the median home price in LA County. That statistic is truly remarkable.
Have you been on the fence about moving? Are you ready to make a change? Why not now? After all, “summer’s over, now it’s fall…Just the nicest time of all!”
Warm Regards,
Stacy Dover
REALTOR ®
DRE #01768476
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Summer is here - NOW WHAT?!
As a mom of three, I am constantly preparing my household for the next transition...maybe that's why I seem to clean more frantically, read more and write more at a seasons transition. There's a shift in the house and how we function every few months. Summer is here - so now what?!
Well, all the kids are home and keeping busy with various activities, and this is the traditional busy time for me in real estate. My desk is full of prospects, newletters and listing information. My head is full of the latest stats (for the most part!) and my coffee is warm and my mind fully caffeinated. So now what? Well, interest rates are seriously at historic lows (OK, I know I have said this before, but truthfully, I do not know how much lower we can go). Conventional and FHA rates are nearly the same (high 4's low 5's). Buyers that have been waiting have a seriously prime, once in a generation time to buy. Why keep waiting?
Many of us that bought in the last decade may wish we had waited for a time such as this. I have helped many families who got caught in the upswing and due to job loss, or health issues could no longer afford their home. But, many of these families, who just a few short years ago had to short sale their home, have been able to get back in to the market.
How is this possible? Well, there are several factors. My theory includes the need for housing does not cease to exist (and if rent is just as much, why not buy?)Houses in the San Gabriel valley - especially foothill areas - are positioned in much desired locations. The locations are prime because of schools, safety, scenery and proximity to urban work centers (i.e. downtown LA, Pasadena). Despite the economy here - it is worse other places. FHA loans still have low rates, high loan limits and low downs (3.5%). There are also other programs that have been very helpful with regard to buyer assistance. The economy needs the housing industry to recover and there are more loan programs to help people than before!
If you are on the fence, still wondering and worried about a double dip (which has not happened in LA County), stop fretting and get buying! Trust me when I say this is once in a generation conditions for prime buying!
If you are looking to sell your home for any reason - whether you have equity or not - I am here to help you as well. This is the best time to look at all of your options!
Call or email if you would like to discuss the current state of the market! Be ready for change! The time to move couldn't be better!
Well, all the kids are home and keeping busy with various activities, and this is the traditional busy time for me in real estate. My desk is full of prospects, newletters and listing information. My head is full of the latest stats (for the most part!) and my coffee is warm and my mind fully caffeinated. So now what? Well, interest rates are seriously at historic lows (OK, I know I have said this before, but truthfully, I do not know how much lower we can go). Conventional and FHA rates are nearly the same (high 4's low 5's). Buyers that have been waiting have a seriously prime, once in a generation time to buy. Why keep waiting?
Many of us that bought in the last decade may wish we had waited for a time such as this. I have helped many families who got caught in the upswing and due to job loss, or health issues could no longer afford their home. But, many of these families, who just a few short years ago had to short sale their home, have been able to get back in to the market.
How is this possible? Well, there are several factors. My theory includes the need for housing does not cease to exist (and if rent is just as much, why not buy?)Houses in the San Gabriel valley - especially foothill areas - are positioned in much desired locations. The locations are prime because of schools, safety, scenery and proximity to urban work centers (i.e. downtown LA, Pasadena). Despite the economy here - it is worse other places. FHA loans still have low rates, high loan limits and low downs (3.5%). There are also other programs that have been very helpful with regard to buyer assistance. The economy needs the housing industry to recover and there are more loan programs to help people than before!
If you are on the fence, still wondering and worried about a double dip (which has not happened in LA County), stop fretting and get buying! Trust me when I say this is once in a generation conditions for prime buying!
If you are looking to sell your home for any reason - whether you have equity or not - I am here to help you as well. This is the best time to look at all of your options!
Call or email if you would like to discuss the current state of the market! Be ready for change! The time to move couldn't be better!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
January - A time to Re-start!
Recharge your thoughts - your goals - your life! January is a month that makes change seem not only possible, but exciting!
The past year saw babies born, very special people pass away, homes built, sold, foreclosed on; Interest rates were at (and continue to hover around) historic lows. Home sales were awesome the beginning of the year, and slowed a bit at the end (a normal occurence).
As the new year is ramping up and new opportunities appear, I have spent some time thinking of my "job" in real estate and what really matters to me, and usually my clients. I am reminded of where I think some of my "sales" philosophy comes from.
My great grandparents, Claude and Octavia Browning were home builders and sellers. They began Browning & Sons Construction in Glendora, California. When they began their business, Glendora was a very small town. There were no "tract" homes. But, there was a lot of land. My great-grandfather built their first home on Leadora Ave. (between Minnesota and Cullen Ave.) The house is still there - and I drive by it several times a day. He went on to build countless homes all over town, one at a time. Each home was built by Claude, and then decorated by Tava (as she was known). Tava also was the one who actively worked to sell the home. Tava did not have her real estate license; In those days, it was done very differently. They waited until the house sold and bills were paid before starting the next home. Amazing! They accrued zero debt as they went on this way until moving to Redding in the later 1960's. In Redding, the building process continued and included my grandfather, who eventually took over the business.
This past year I was holding an open house in Glendora when high school friends of my grandparents wandered through. We got to talking - and since I had never met them before I didn't know who they "knew" in town. Once I mentioned my family, they smiled and their faces lit up. They recalled the building not of houses, but of Glendora's four square church my great-grandparents attended. They recalled my great-grandfather building the actual church building decades ago. What was interesting to me was I had never realized he was such a big part of building the church. They never talked about what they did - they were very humble.
So, as this new year begins, I fondly recall The Browning Family and the legacy they built in the early real estate of Glendora! You won't find information on them in the library, and they don't have any buildings or parks named after them. But, their business philosophy will remain in me; Treat people right, be honest, be fair and sell each home one at a time. It's the biggest purchase most people will ever make. And last, give back. Whenever you can, find a way to give back to your community. You never know what child will meet your grandchild in 60 years and be able to smile at your memory and what you did for others!
The past year saw babies born, very special people pass away, homes built, sold, foreclosed on; Interest rates were at (and continue to hover around) historic lows. Home sales were awesome the beginning of the year, and slowed a bit at the end (a normal occurence).
As the new year is ramping up and new opportunities appear, I have spent some time thinking of my "job" in real estate and what really matters to me, and usually my clients. I am reminded of where I think some of my "sales" philosophy comes from.
My great grandparents, Claude and Octavia Browning were home builders and sellers. They began Browning & Sons Construction in Glendora, California. When they began their business, Glendora was a very small town. There were no "tract" homes. But, there was a lot of land. My great-grandfather built their first home on Leadora Ave. (between Minnesota and Cullen Ave.) The house is still there - and I drive by it several times a day. He went on to build countless homes all over town, one at a time. Each home was built by Claude, and then decorated by Tava (as she was known). Tava also was the one who actively worked to sell the home. Tava did not have her real estate license; In those days, it was done very differently. They waited until the house sold and bills were paid before starting the next home. Amazing! They accrued zero debt as they went on this way until moving to Redding in the later 1960's. In Redding, the building process continued and included my grandfather, who eventually took over the business.
This past year I was holding an open house in Glendora when high school friends of my grandparents wandered through. We got to talking - and since I had never met them before I didn't know who they "knew" in town. Once I mentioned my family, they smiled and their faces lit up. They recalled the building not of houses, but of Glendora's four square church my great-grandparents attended. They recalled my great-grandfather building the actual church building decades ago. What was interesting to me was I had never realized he was such a big part of building the church. They never talked about what they did - they were very humble.
So, as this new year begins, I fondly recall The Browning Family and the legacy they built in the early real estate of Glendora! You won't find information on them in the library, and they don't have any buildings or parks named after them. But, their business philosophy will remain in me; Treat people right, be honest, be fair and sell each home one at a time. It's the biggest purchase most people will ever make. And last, give back. Whenever you can, find a way to give back to your community. You never know what child will meet your grandchild in 60 years and be able to smile at your memory and what you did for others!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Where are we headed?
NODs and Trustee’s Deeds: Grim signs of real estate’s present condition | first tuesday journal online
The above link is an article I know will garner a lot of discussion.
I seem to not attend a party or gathering without someone asking me where I think the real estate market is headed in the coming year. The past several years have offered us a mixed bag of ups and downs - prices went up for a bit, interest rates went down. Then NOD's (Notice of Defaults) went up, yet the number of foreclosures went down (as they were NOD's being held and not processed). Prices have gone steady - even down in parts, sales have slowed, interest rates are down and the year is ending with a sense of uncertainty. Where are we headed?
The economy in general is struggling. As anyone can see from looking at friends and family out of work, moving or losing a home due to new financial situations, there is a definite air of uncertainty. Then there is that sign of hope we see - glimmering out in the darkest, blackest sky: A house on my grandma's street closed about $40K over asking price (Yes, OVER in this market)... interest rates are still in the 4% range (what's this talk about them ticking up?!) Inventory is steadily priced and so it becomes easier to ascertain that, for a buyer, this is a wonderful time to make the committment.
Now, we know there is talk of more foreclosure, more "shadow inventory" the banks are holding on to, and we are still in dire need of more, long-term jobs. But, if your job is steady, you've been out there, watching the market, wondering and waiting - I cannot think of a better time to buy. What if prices go down 2% or even 5%? Guess what? Even if prices go down, there is always the chance of interest going up. There's always risks involved with homeownership. There's risks involved in life - in every decision we make, every committment we make.
I think the economy has given us all a good chance to reassess what we are willing to risk. If you are ready to make the leap into homeownership, I still think if you can make the committment, it's a pretty safe risk!
The above link is an article I know will garner a lot of discussion.
I seem to not attend a party or gathering without someone asking me where I think the real estate market is headed in the coming year. The past several years have offered us a mixed bag of ups and downs - prices went up for a bit, interest rates went down. Then NOD's (Notice of Defaults) went up, yet the number of foreclosures went down (as they were NOD's being held and not processed). Prices have gone steady - even down in parts, sales have slowed, interest rates are down and the year is ending with a sense of uncertainty. Where are we headed?
The economy in general is struggling. As anyone can see from looking at friends and family out of work, moving or losing a home due to new financial situations, there is a definite air of uncertainty. Then there is that sign of hope we see - glimmering out in the darkest, blackest sky: A house on my grandma's street closed about $40K over asking price (Yes, OVER in this market)... interest rates are still in the 4% range (what's this talk about them ticking up?!) Inventory is steadily priced and so it becomes easier to ascertain that, for a buyer, this is a wonderful time to make the committment.
Now, we know there is talk of more foreclosure, more "shadow inventory" the banks are holding on to, and we are still in dire need of more, long-term jobs. But, if your job is steady, you've been out there, watching the market, wondering and waiting - I cannot think of a better time to buy. What if prices go down 2% or even 5%? Guess what? Even if prices go down, there is always the chance of interest going up. There's always risks involved with homeownership. There's risks involved in life - in every decision we make, every committment we make.
I think the economy has given us all a good chance to reassess what we are willing to risk. If you are ready to make the leap into homeownership, I still think if you can make the committment, it's a pretty safe risk!
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