Short Sales Explained - 01/26/09 02:52 PM
With so many short sales present in today's market, many members of the public are wondering what a short sale actually is. 
 
Wikipedia defines a short sale as, "a sale of real estate in which the proceeds from the sale fall short of the balance owed on a loan secured by the property sold. In a short sale, the bank or mortgage lender agrees to discount a loan balance due to an economic or financial hardship on the part of the mortgagor."
 
In addition, many people do not know that there are many requirements that must be met in … (5 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Ron and Gillian O. - 01/26/09 02:51 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
Met you years ago and (were) very impressed.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
Always on top of things.  Took Ron's stress away (put up with Ron).
Are there any additional comments you may have?
Thanks for all your help, we will miss you.  Come and visit!
 
Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors
… (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Peter S. and Sunny T. - 01/26/09 02:50 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
We receive your direct mails (and) we know you are hard working.  We know your results.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent.
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
You are a very popular man in (our community).  You work so diligently and you earn your popularity and your success all by yourself.  Congratulations.
 
Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors
… (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Michael G. - 01/26/09 02:49 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
Excellent service as our agent for the Long Beach property in 1995.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent.
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
You are a true professional with high standards and you understand and know how to successfully market a property.
 
Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors
… (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Lonnie and Martha A. - 01/26/09 02:48 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
Referral from a friend who had worked with you before and had a great experience.  They felt you best understand their needs and successfully found what they were looking for.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
Very impressed with your knowledge of (our community).  Very much appreciated your professionalism and "hand holding" during the entire process of finding a home for us-as we were new to living in Orange County.  You also helped us get acclimated to the area with … (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from George and Polly R. - 01/26/09 02:46 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
We have personally known you for years and you have helped on the purchase of a condo.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent.
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
You were truly professional from beginning to end.  The whole process went very smoothly. You kept us informed each step of the way.  Thank you for making the sale so easy.  
 
We'd love to hear your thoughts. Please send comments if you have a moment.
 
Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate … (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Gene and Marilyn L. - 01/26/09 02:45 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
One reason was your attrarctive advertisements, noticeably active in our neighborhood and over time, a display of interests in the neighborhood's well being.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent.
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
Very good communication, interest in every detail, and very helpful guidance with respect in achieving our goals.
Are there any additional comments you may have?
Very helpful in every aspect with regard to selling our home.  We would most certainly and gladly recommend Michael to our friends.
  
We'd love to … (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Blase and Leslie D. - 01/26/09 02:44 PM
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
Recognized you as #1 agent in Ocean Ranch.  Your high visibility within (the) neighborhood is hard to miss.  (Your) word of mouth is strong.
How would you rate my level of service?
Excellent!
If you answered "excellent," would you please elaborate?
Moving is high stress and you understand how to manage the process. You kept my wife and I so up to date throughout the process.  Your sense of when to walk, jog or run is a GIFT.  They don't teach that-you're born with it.
Are there any additional comments you … (0 comments)

Home Decorating Tips for 2009 - 01/26/09 02:43 PM
Are you looking to revamp your home's overall look with the arrival of the New Year?  Here are some tips you may wish to consider when performing a makeover on your home:
Make sure that your home is property lit. In addition to floor and table lamps, ensure that paintings and other noteworthy areas are well lit. Paint the interior of your home a vibrant color. New colors sure to thrive in the new year, according to the Pantone Color Institute include shades of  Fuchsia Red, Salmon Rose, Palace Blue, Lavender, Rose Dust and Vibrant Green. If purchasing new furniture, ensure … (0 comments)

GOT A HOUSE…GOTTA HAVE SOME SKILLS - 01/26/09 02:41 PM
Homeowners can save money and just plain feel good about doing some of their own maintenance items.  They can be very basic at first but then who knows, they can become more skilled and will be real money savers...
Start simple:
* Learn to change your furnace filters -  The furnace will run better, last longer, be more efficient and your lungs will enjoy the difference.
* Get a caulking gun - you may start with a squeeze tube but eventually get the gun.  You can use mildew resistant caulk to keep those showers and tubs looking fresh, and use paintable … (1 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Kevin and Sheree - 01/19/09 04:44 PM
Purchased property in Laguna Niguel
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
(We are) loyal repeat clients.  This will be our fourth home you have handled for us.
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Excellent!
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
Michael checked in with us daily and had a calming, professional demeanor during our lengthy search for our new home.  He held our hand and was there for us night and day. You are the best!
… (4 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Bob and Dagny S. - 01/19/09 04:41 PM
Sold  property in Laguna Niguel
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
(Due to your) knowledge of properties in Ocean Ranch and your good communication skills.
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Excellent!
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
Michael, you have been a true gentleman throughout our association with you. I have in the past and will in the future recommend you to my friends and neighbors. Thank you.
… (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Dean and Chenwei C. - 01/19/09 04:39 PM
Sold  property in Laguna Niguel
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
(We were) impressed with you when we first bought our house (you represented the seller).  (You also have) a great reputation in the area.
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Excellent!
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
Even though our expectations were very high, you exceeded them. The whole process from start to finish was handled efficiently and professionally.  You were always available with quick responses to any questions or concerns we had.  Terrific job Michael!
… (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Richard and Kim O. - 01/19/09 04:36 PM
Sold  property in the Ocean Ranch community of Laguna Niguel
  
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
Your reputation and you were knowledgeable regarding the area.
 
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Excellent!
 
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
You went above and beyond in helping us sell our house. Everything you did was first class. You are the best!
… (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from Rick and Christy M. - 01/19/09 04:31 PM
Sold  property in the Ocean Ranch community of Laguna Niguel
  
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
You have been a valued friend to our family for many years in addition to knowing your excellent reputation.
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Excellent!
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
Michael, you exude nothing but professionalism, HARD WORK and were always accessible whenever we needed you.  Furthermore, you were able to get us the highest asking price for a plan 2 in the Ocean Ranch community at a time … (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from John and Cathy N. - 01/19/09 04:26 PM
Sold  property in the Ocean Ranch community of Laguna Niguel
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
From your extensive advertising, observing your successful sales in Ocean Ranch and referrals.
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Excellent!
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
It started with our initial meeting and evaluation of our home, and continued throughout the process of preparing to go on the market finalizing the sale and smooth escrow.  There was never a problem too big or a question too small for your immediate attention. Your … (0 comments)

Performance Survey Response from James and Deann S. - 01/19/09 04:18 PM
Purchased property in Laguna Niguel
  
How did you happen to select me as your agent?
You were recommended to my by my friend Inez W.
 
How would you rate my level of service overall?
Your service was superb!
 
Would you please elaborate regarding your thoughts regarding my level of service?
You were very patient with us over 6 months as we found the right home for our family.  You were always available to speak to and you were never bothered by my phone calls.
… (0 comments)

Orange County~Central (Local Events) - 01/19/09 04:01 PM

COSTA MESA
City Council will meet tomorrow at 6pm to decide whether or not to install multi-direction stop signs at four major intersections: Fullerton and 20th Street, Monrovia Avenue and Arbor Street, 21st Street and Eleden Avenue and Broadway at Weminster Avenue.
FOUNTAIN VALLEY
On February 13th, learn how to keep your heart healthy at the Palm Island Active Adult Living center.  For more information, please call 800-636-6742 ext 4.
HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Library will host HB Reads on Thursday at 7pm.  The location is 7111 Talbert Avenue.
IRVINE
Volunteers are needed for a tax preparation assistance program … (0 comments)

Orange County~South (Local Events) - 01/19/09 03:37 PM

ALISO VIEJO
Voulenteers are still needed for a free haircut event at the Village of Hope Homeless center in Tustin.  The event will be staffed in part by the Tribeca Salon.  For more information, please visit tribecahairsalon.com
COTO DE CAZA & THE CANYONS
Nothing to report.
DANA POINT
At 6pm on Thursday, the city's Chamber of Commerce will present awards and install the 2009 board of directors at the Doubletree Guest Suites on 34402 Pacific Coast Highway. For more information, please call 949-496-1555.
LADERA RANCH
Residents are welcome to visit the Covenant Hills Orchard in Ladera Ranch (located at Covenant … (0 comments)

Orange County~North (Local Events) - 01/19/09 03:13 PM

ANAHEIM
Nothing to report.
BREA
Bids are currently being reviewed by the city for construction of a new traffic light at the intersection of Olinda Place and Carbon Canyon. 
BUENA PARK
Now through February 28th, artwork by artist LeDOUX will be on display at the Buena Park Library. For more information, please call 714-826-4100 ext. 125.
CYPRESS
Voulenteers are needed for the planning of this summer's Cypress Community Festival.  For more information, please call 714-761-5142.
FULLERTON
Trustees from the city's school district will be discussing a study that would offset a possible loss of seventeen million dollars in state funding. … (1 comments)

$599000 High Rise Living--Marquee Park Place - 01/13/09 06:03 PM
***Investor Alert***this property just reduced price again and is selling at a price far below 2004 contract price with builder. Popular floor plan rests high up the Tower with very large patio balcony. Cherry hardwood floors and verde granite kitchen with stainless GE appliances and breakfast counter. Den could be a very comfortable office. Generous baths with marble and stone. Numerous community facilities include fitness, theatre, billiards, pool, spa, clubhouse and 24 hour Concierge (who can facilitate everything from dry cleaning to car wash). For more photos and information, CLICK HERE or contact the Michael Caruso Real Estate Group 949.753.7900
… (3 comments)

5br - Spanish Architecture in Stoneridge Estates - 01/13/09 05:58 PM
Astounding design and quality, priced more than $300,000 below competition. Intimate custom home community with 180 homes and an equestrian feel. It's suburbia with great open areas, park, clubhouse, tennis courts and equestrian arena included in mild HOA fee. No mello roos taxes. The design spans nearly 4,500 sqft with a main floor guest room and main floor office that has dual work stations, closet and room for a Murphy bed. Double door entry, spiral staircases and a skylight. Step down living room has 13 foot ceiling and dining room has a view deck and fireplace. Enormous Family Room opens to … (0 comments)

Luxury Living at Landmark, Scottsdale - 01/13/09 05:51 PM
Second floor 2 BR 2 BA unit, Plus Den with McDowell Mountain and city lights views in the Guard Gated Landmark-recently named one of the BEST PLACES TO LIVE by AZ Foothills Magazine.  Can be a perfect lock and leave vacation home or a full time residence.  Travertine floors and fully equipped granite kitchen with serving counter and fine name brand appliances opens to Great Room.  Large patio balcony for entertaining.  Bedrooms have high quality carpet and baths show beautiful granite counters with stone accent through main bath and stone-like tile in second bath.  Exciting Clubhouse designed with a warm, contemporary theme for … (0 comments)

Kudos to Craigslist - 01/13/09 05:29 PM

I was just informed today by a friend of mine who is moving in the near future, that there is a category on Craigslist called "Free Stuff."  Here, she was able to find 30 free boxes for her move, which will significantly decrease the money she will have to pay to purchase them for her move.
Since we as Realtors encounter people moving in and out all the time, either looking to obtain or get rid of boxes, I thought this would be a good piece of information to pass on!
Have a great day!
Thank you for making me … (2 comments)

America First? - 01/13/09 05:22 PM
CNN reported today that Hillary Clinton said, "America cannot solve the most pressing problems on our own, and the world cannot solve them without America."
 
With the current economic situation, I believe the Active Rain community members will have strong opinions on this quote. 
 
For years, people have had different views on this subject, and we'd like to hear from you....
 
Do we help America or other countries first? What do you think the possible benefits/drawbacks will be of making that decision?
 
Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, … (3 comments)

Beachgoers Beware! - 01/13/09 05:17 PM
With three non-fatal and one fatal attack since last December, Australian beach-goers are now considering themselves at risk.
 
While previous statistics showed that surfers/swimmers were more likely to be struck by lightning, four incidents within a less than one month period prove otherwise.
 
Some locals complain that current Australian governmental laws to protect sharks are to blame for the increase in attacks (which were previously recorded to average one attack per year).
 
What do you think is best? Preserving laws that protect shark populations in the water or protect swimmers and surfers?
… (0 comments)

Activists Send Recipe Requests to Obama’s Chef - 01/13/09 05:04 PM

I read an email today written by a member of the staff at the Ocean Conservatory group.  While many have advice for what important choices they feel Obama should make once he is in office, few have expressed concern with his diet.
Activists at the Ocean Conservatory have sent out emails to their subscribers to vote on which recipes they should send to the White House in order to raise awarness of choosing "good fish" from the ocean. The choices include:
Florida Pink Shrimp Chinook Salmon Atlantic Haddock Bigeye Tuna Red Snapper Do you think that this is a little … (0 comments)

Renting with Fluffy or Fido - 01/10/09 04:25 PM
Orange County residents have reported to have a harder time finding homes for rent that will allow their pets these days.  The San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recently suggested creating a resume for their animals when submitting applications to rent:
Provide the name, age, personality, size and breed. Including a photo may also be helpful. Give examples of how your pet will be cared for while you are away from home Let the landlord or management company know how you will clean up after your pet and attend to any vaccination or pest-control needs Tell a … (7 comments)

Beluga Whale Now Considered Endangered Species - 01/10/09 03:41 PM
The federal government has recently labeled the beluga whales in Alaska's Cook Inlet protected under the Endangered Species Act.
Although the beluga whales in this location have been part of a ten year recovery program, their species keeps failing to repopulate.  While there are five beluga whale populations in Alaska, the Cook's Inlet population is the only one considered by the federal government to be endangered.
The issue, it seems is oil and gas exploration in the Cook Inlet, due to an estimated $1.3 billion dollars worth of energy resources. 
Now that the species has been identified as endangered, researchers will … (2 comments)

One New Year's Resolution You Can Keep - 01/09/09 05:29 PM
Many people are have set a New Year's resolution to cut back on spending in 2009. Here are some helpful ways to enjoy yourself in the New Year without making a dent in your pocketbook:
 
Cut back on eating out. Cooking at home is not only a less expensive option, but it is often healthier! When shopping for home-cooked meal supplies, select store brand items rather than name brands. As old-fashioned as it may seem, clip coupons from newspapers and advertisements. Sign up for store club cards as well. Buy in bulk. If you're afraid of food spoiling, why not … (11 comments)

Was it All bad in 2008?.... Send in Your "Best of 2008" - 01/03/09 12:01 AM

OK, life isn't that unfair, is it?
I'm saying that 2008 was bad but it can't be all bad...there had to be some great stuff that happened. 
Whatever your definition of a "great thing happened"...please send it in - babies born, surprise visitors, scholarships, graduates, weddings, new boat, new car, a vacation, a concert, anything.  Think about the thing(s) that made you smile - and share it with us all.
Surely it will cheer everyone up, and set a great tone to start the new year.
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
… (9 comments)

Strong Finish and Stronger Start for Stocks... - 01/02/09 11:40 PM
I was happy (and somewhat surprised) to see the stock market enjoy "up days" on December 30th and 31st.  That was a long overdue, and quite late but quite welcome little rally.  And I wondered what would happen on the first trading day of the new year...
I tuned in to the financial news as I attended to my email, web site and Active Rain this morning...
Much to my surprise and delight the year on Wall Street started off in a very upbeat manner.
I think the stock market has just as much affect on the consumer sentiment as real … (4 comments)

 
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Michael A. Caruso ~

Laguna Niguel, CA

More about me…

Surterre Properties

Address: 33522 Niguel Road #100, Monarch Beach, CA, 92629

Office Phone: (949) 495-8600

Cell Phone: (949) 584-2300

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