5 Inexpensive Home Updates to Complete before Listing Your Home

 There is no perfect formula for selling your home efficiently, but by following these five tips prior to listing you can increase your chances to close quickly at a higher price.

1.) Update your old garage door(s). Garage doors seem like a non-issue, but many times they make up a significant percentage of the front of a home. Because of this, they are one of the first things that buyers notice when they pull in the drive way. Replacing, or even just painting, these central fixtures will do wonders when it comes to instantly impressing perspective buyers and standing apart from your competition. Read the rest of this entry »

Home Mortgage Rates Improve on Feds Announcement

The end of January’s Fed announcement was very favorable for mortgage rates. This week’s mixed economic data, Treasury auctions, and news from Europe had little influence. As a result, mortgage rates ended the week lower.

The forecasts from Fed officials for the fed funds rate contained some major surprises for investors. Fed officials now expect that economic conditions will allow the fed funds rate to remain at exceptionally low levels until at least “late 2014″.Prior statements extended the expected time frame only to mid-2013. In addition, comments from Fed Chief Bernanke suggested that Fed officials would like to see stronger economic growth, and they are open to the possibility of additional Fed easing. Many investors think it is likely that the Fed will announce additional MBS purchases at a later meeting. The expectation for a low fed funds rate and the possibility of additional Fed purchases of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) increased demand for MBS, which resulted in higher MBS prices and lower mortgage rates.

The most recent release of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) showed an increase at a 2.8% annual rate during the fourth quarter of 2011, which was a little below the consensus forecast, but up from 1.8% during the third quarter. Early estimates for the first quarter of this year are for a slower growth rate. The long-run average growth rate for the economy is generally considered to be around 3.0%, and the economy usually grows at a faster than average rate following a recession. Given that the economy is growing below its potential and that inflation remains tame, the Fed’s expectation that monetary policy will remain very stimulative for a long time is understandable.

CALL PAM PARTON 760-580-1615     OR                     JOANNA WOOLLEY 760-580-1630

We would love  to help you with your home sale or purchase in North County San Diego, give us  a call at any time so we can help you get the process started!

Content Courtesy of John Yeager, Summit Mortagage

Shopping for a New Home in Winter

If you’ve been thinking about buying a new home, winter is the time to start getting serious. Here are a few reasons to brave the cooler weather and go on a house hunt:

The winter season has fewer units on the market, and sellers tend to need to move from their property. You can use that to your advantage to get a favorable deal.

Winter has fewer buyers in the market. Looking for a home in the winter can be inconvenient, and people are less likely to move. Families also tend to be on a September to June cycle because they are unwilling to move their children to a new town in the middle of the school year. Fewer buyers means less competition.

Lenders usually have fewer loans to process and less paperwork to deal with. With lenders less hassled, you might be able to  expect a smoother process to get approved for a mortgage.

Finally, as all savvy shoppers know after the holiday season comes the season of bargain opportunities. This includes houses as well!!

So go out and brave the weather, rain or sun and find that home you’ve been looking for. NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY.

For a complete list of all the latest short sales, foreclosures and standard sales call: PAM or JOANNA .

PAM PARTON: 760-580-1615                       JOANNA WOOLLEY: 760-580-1630

Why Real Estate is still America’s Best Investment

Why Real Estate is still AMERICA’S BEST INVESTMENT

The latest headlines tell us the economy fluctuates from recovery to ruin on a weekly basis. In reality, real estate is cyclical, and the market is on its way to recovery in most areas. Although you may feel nervous about home ownership, property is still your best long – term investment.

In more than two thirds of the country, housing affordability has dipped to pre-housing bubble levels, creating opportunities for those looking for a bargain. Home prices are expected to rise in 2013 due to fewer distressed sales and the impending housing shortage.

Mortgage rates have decreased over the last fifty years to record lows. Due to the economic downturn,borrowers with stellar credit and a solid employment history are best able to secure financing right now. However, as conditions improve, the market will expand for borrowers who may not fit the mold of traditonal lending standards, such as the self employed.

A major advantage of homeownership is building equity. The average seller who purchased a home in 2002 gained 24% in equity, while those who purchased their homes 11 to 15 years ago had a median gain of 40%.

So in spite of all the negative news the press is brain washing us with IT IS STILL A GREAT TIME TO BUY A HOME!

For more information on great HOME  DEALS available in North County San Diego give us a call as  we would love to share this information with you.

PAM PARTON:  760-580-1630                             JOANNA WOOLLEY: 760-580-1615

Content courtesy of

Brian Buffini, Wall Street Jouranl and National Association of Realtors.

28453 ALMONA WAY,VALLEY CENTER,CA 92082

Gorgeous Custom Valley Center Home

28453 ALMONA WAY, VALLEY CENTER, CA 92082

This gorgeous estate offers the highest quality of upgrades you could wish for.The breath taking kitchen will bring out the chef in most everyone!With stunning custom cabinetry, granite and solid butcher block counters opening to inviting family rm & wet bar.Walnut and Versialles Travertine flooring throughout.Spacious Master Retreat with private balcony for a special romantic evening. This unique property is one not to be missed, it has everything you could ever wish for in a home – truly a work of art.

Dream Chefs Kitchen

30618 Falling Star Circle, Valley Center, CA 92082

30618 FALLING STAR CIRCLE,VALLEY CENTER,C 92082

If you are looking for some peace and tranquility in your life this is the home for you. Located in the community of Valley Center one of the few last unspoilt havens in San Diego County, where you can escape to your very own tranquil paradise.

30618 Falling Star Circle,Valley Center, CA 92082

This gorgeous ranch style home offers all you have been waiting for. Attention to detail and beautifully appointed in every aspect. A welcome and flowing light open floorplan awaits you with an oversized gourmet kitchen which will bring out the chef in anyone. Ample counter and cabinets with spacious center island, large walk in pantry and vaulted ceilings.Large sunny breakfast area with stunning views of near by mountain ranges. Formal dining with large picture window and coffered vaulted ceilings. Huge master wing with luxurious master bath.

French doors lead to private garden patio. While away the summer evenings on your patio while you enjoy the breath taking sunsets. 2.10 premium acres suitable for horses with private entrance. Pride of ownership is apparent throughout this meticulously maintained home. Cat 5 central wiring.Fire Sprinklers throughout home and garage.Room for rv or boat.Large fenced backyard suitable for pool and spa.Dual Zoned Furnace and Air.

Welcome Home to Valley Center………………………

Listing Price: $590,000

Sq Ft: 3154

4 Beds / 3 Baths

2.10 Premium Acres.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS FABULOUS VALLEY CENTER PROPERTY

CALL JOANNA:  760-580-1630  OR PAM: 760-580-1615

Valley Center Home Sellers 5 Great Tips to Help Sell Your Home.

Valley Center Home Owners here are some tips to help you sell your home!

Here are a few tips for you home sellers out there:
 1. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of any trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin.

2. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine.

3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.

4. Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house.

5. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments.

Content courtesy of Realtor. com

IF YOU ARE THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME CALL PAM AND JOANNA TO FIND OUT WHAT WE WILL DO TO SELL YOUR HOME.

Pam Parton:  760-580-1615            Joanna Woolley: 760-580-1630

Home Sellers You Have 11 Great Reasons to List Your Home During the Holidays

VALLEY CENTER HOME SELLERS CHECK OUT THIS LIST ON WHY YOU SHOULD LIST YOUR HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS:

For all of you Valley Center Homeowners out there who are considering putting your home on the market, read on for 11 Great reasons to list your home during the holidays, or why you should keep your home on the market if it is already listed.

• Home buyers who look for a home during the Holidays are more serious home buyers!
• Serious buyers have fewer homes to choose from during the holidays and less competition means more money for you!
• Since the supply of listings will dramatically increase in January, there will be less demand for your particular home. Less demand means less money for you.
• Homes show better when decorated for the holidays!
• Home buyers are more emotional during the Holidays, so they are more likely to pay YOUR price!
• Home buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays than they do during a working week!
• Some home buyers must buy before the end of the year for tax reasons!
• January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transferees cannot wait until Spring to buy, your home must be on the market now to capture the market.
• Your home can still be on the market, but you have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days during the Holidays!
• By selling your home now, you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent home buyer during the Spring, when many more homes are on the market for less money! This will allow you to sell at a higher price and buy at a lower price.
• You can sell your home now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year.

CALL PAM OR JOANNA TODAY FOR A COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS ON YOUR HOME AND A SPECIALIZED MARKETING PLAN ON WHAT WE WILL DO TO SELL YOUR HOME!

PAM PARTON: 760-580-1615                   JOANNA WOOLLEY: 760-580-1630

Free Money for Home Buyers in Valley Center and Escondido, CA

Are you looking to buy a home sometime in the near future? If you are don’t miss out on this GRANT money available now – it does not have to be paid back. Keep in mind that there has not been a better time to buy a home in the last 40 years than there is now, interest rates are down, home prices are down and there is grant money available. Why would you not want to take advantage of this opportunity to buy a home? Valley Center and Escondido offer some of the lowest prices in North County San Diego.

• This grant is equal to 3% of the total loan amount of the home you are purchasing.
•  Can be used for down payment, closing costs,prepaid items or earnest money.
• Program is available for first time homebuyers and non first time buyers.
• Home Buyer may own properties but must occupy the subject property.
• The 1st mortgage must be an FHA,VA, USDA-Rural Housing loans,thirty year fixed.
• Qualifying property types must be SFR owner occupied units, Fannie Mae approved condos and PUDS.
• Theres is a maximum income limit for San Diego County of $90,500 gross annual income
• Minimum FICO is 620.

Valley Center and Escondido Home Buyers what are you waiting for? Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to take advantage of some free money to help you get into the home of your dreams!

Call Pam or Joanna today for more information on how you can qualify for this CHF Platinum Grant Program.

PAM: 760-580-1615        JOANNA: 760-580-1630