As I was watching one of the cooking shows where chefs compete against each other, I couldn't help but think about all the negative tone that is in the air these days whether it's on TV, or in the newspaper or magazines that we read, and even in the conversations we have with each other.  I have literally seen where the local newspaper will write an article one day about the housing market has slowed and prices are dropping, only to see the very next day that prices are going up and sales are up.  No wonder our emotions can be all over the place!

I know, you probably think I watch lots of TV, but I don't.  I am particular in selecting my TV shows.  I love to laugh!  Or, I love to watch something that makes me reflect or just feel good.  However, it was while I was watching this particular show as the judges were critizing the contestants while they were building their elaborate sugar piece.  I was impressed with what these contestants were doing as I know there is no way I could even build an igloo out of sugar cubes, much less build a showpiece out of blown and pulled sugar!  The judges had very few good things to say and then when the contestants had to stand in front of the judges, the judges had one maybe two things to say that were positive, but then went down the list of negative things to say about their showpieces.  It was then that I thought "why am I watching this?" I truly didn't enjoy seeing these people be harsly criticized (that's why I don't watch American Idol).

I know, you're going to tell me that that is how these shows are, and if I don't like it, don't watch it, and you would be correct.  However, with the economy they way it is, and the negative stuff that is thrown in our face every day, I believe we need to focus on the good things that are going on.  I tend to believe that there are many more great things happening, than bad.  I have heard from so many people who have had crisis in their lives over the last couple of years and they truly have a new perspective in life.  Some have said that the crises was the best thing to happen to them.  Why?  Because they are living their lives very differently, their priorities have changed, and have learned to appreciate everything in their lives.  So yes, I agree, that everything happens for a reason.  And those that can find the good out of a bad situation are truly amazing.  I too have had a rough couple of years, and I'm such a different person and have grown so much.  My priorities have changed.  I appreciate and spend more time with my family and friends.  I am truly blessed with amazing people in my life.

So what's my point?  Carefully select what you hear, read or watch.  Appreciate and enjoy the family and friends that you have been so blessed with.  Even if things are not going well for you right now, look for things to be thankful for.  Maybe it's the fact that you have a bed to climb into every night, or that you have your health.  How about that job? 

Open House - Sunday, August 15th from 1pm to 4pm. 3687 4th Avenue, #215, San Diego - The Atlas.

Come see this beautiful corner unit condominium with a wrap around balcony. The condominum has dark hardwood floors, granite countertops with rich dark cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom, stainless steel appliances, washer/dryer in the unit (all appliances convey), lots of storage in the unit and a nice balcony. The complex has a fitness center, pool/spa, underground parking and storage in a secured pet friendly building. The same size unit next door sold for $314,000 in June! Hurry, this won't last. For more information, please call Lisa Clanin, Realtor, at 619-227-3775 or go to my website: www.ClaninHomes.com. DRE #01408102.

I'm beginning to see a renew trend here in San Diego.  Recently, I received three offers where a buyer wants to trade their home for my listing.  I have also talked with other agents who have had similar transactions lately. This can be a viable option for some who wants to move up into a larger home, or downsize, and don't want to wait to sell their home before purchasing their next one.  Even if your home has a loan on it, as long as you're not upside down on the loan, it can be done. The transaction is complicated so it's important that you have an agent who is experienced in this area.  However, this can be a win-win transaction for all parties.  Considering it, but have more questions?  Please feel free to contact me 619-277-3775.

This is a great question that I often am asked--What's new in the San Diego market for Buyers?  What's the answer?  Lots!

The market is very different than last summer, and even a different market from this past spring.  Last summer, I worked 12 hours a day/7 days a week mostly showing buyers properties.  It was very crazy for most agents and for their buyers.  There were few properties on the market and buyers were out in large numbers.  Most properties were either short sales or foreclosures.  It was not uncommon for a property to have multiple, mulitple offers--some as high as 60 offers!  Often times when my clients received a listing from me, they would quickly drive by that property, and if they liked the looks of the outside, they would then call me while sitting in front of the house and ask to see the inside.  I would fly over to the property, and if they liked the inside of the property, we would fly back to my office and get an offer out ASAP. More often than not, by the time we would submit out offer, there would be mulitple offers already on the property.  It became discouraging for most of my buyers, but most persevered and finally got into a home.  For some of my buyers, it took them almost a year to get an offer accepted and close escrow.

This summer, there are more properties on the market and many are regular sellers!  The investors are back in the market purchasing properties at the foreclosure auctions, fixing up the properties and then selling them.  This is great news because it has brought more "regular" sellers to the market and the homes are usually move-in ready.  Often times the investors are completing some major upgrades on the home.  A "regular" also sale means buyers are not dealing with a bank and a sale close quickly.

As for the bank owned properties, I'm seeing a large number of these properties sitting on the market for weeks and months.  There are not as many bank owned properties as there once was.  As for short sales, there are still many out there and they still can take months to close.

So buyers, it's still a great time to buy!  Interest rates are low, there are great loan programs, prices have stablized and there are more properties available.  Hum, it's appearing that the market in San Diego may becoming a buyers market soon.

REDUCED PRICE - $290,000! 

Beautiful 1 bed/1 bath corner unit condominium features dark hardwood floors in kitchen and living room, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, large closet in hallway, washer/dryer in unit, large walk-in closet in bedroom, and large balcony. Condominium is not a "condo conversion" and is conveniently located by the elevator and pool/spa.  Complex has nice fitness room and is close to shopping and freeways. Kitchen island and stools do not convey, but may be negotiable.

The condominium next door sold for $314,000 in June, and is not a corner unit and does not have a balcony.

This is a short sale with only one lender.  Seller wants an offer now!

Beautiful Home for Sale in Santee with Amazing Views!

You must see this spacious 2 story home that has four bedrooms, an office, and 3 full bathrooms on a half acre lot.  The home features a living room, family room, formal dining room, breakfast area, large kitchen, laundry room, 3 car garage, salt water pool/spa with views of the valley and mountains.  The master suite has a large balcony, master bath and a huge walk-in closet.

This home has been freshly painted and new carpet throughout.  The seller also had a new sprinkler system installed in the backyard with new landscaping.  This is a perfect home for a family who loves to entertain.

This is a regular sale, so there are no banks to deal with.  The seller is motivated and ready to get this sold!

Reduced Purchase Price: $634,900.  For more pictures, go to www.ClaninHomes.com.  For more information, please contact me at 619-227-3775.

Why would I use such a title?  Well, first, let me begin by giving you some background on this particular transaction.

I have been working with these clients, Mike and Sharon, since last spring.  They were first time homebuyers and they were very savvy and understood so much about the market which made my job easier.  They understood that there were many buyers out there and that the process could take some time.  However, I have to tell you, I really didn't think it would take so long to get them into their home.

This past summer was a really difficult for most buyers in San Diego.  There was little inventory and lots and lots of buyers out there.  Part of the rush of buyers was probably due to the tax credit deadline of November 30th, and no one was sure if they would extend it.

Anyway, back to my clients.  We looked at lots of homes.  It got so crazy that my clients would see a house that I sent them from the MLS, go drive by the property and call me to tell me that they wanted to submit an offer.  We would meet at my office, put the offer together, submit the offer, and then go see the inside of the house.  More often than not, there would already be multiple offers on the property.

The summer turned into fall and after 20 plus offers, Sharon says to me "always the bridesmaid, never the bride."  I had to agree with her, however, we weren't giving up.  I knew that I knew we were going to get them into a home.  All in all, they really did have a great attitude, it just got frustrating sometimes.

To make a long story short, we got them into their home.  They got a really good deal.  It was a rough transaction for so many reasons, but we got it done.

So, what part of this story was so extrordinary?  Picture this.  I call them to tell them that they are new homeowners and when do they want to meet at the property so I can give them there keys.  Sharon says "right now!"  So, I head over to the house, and I get there before they did.  The house sits up high, so you have to walk up stairs from the driveway to get to the front door.  I walk in the front door and go over to the picture window that overlooks the driveway.  Here come my clients--they both had huge smiles!  I wish I had my camara ready because that was a priceless picture.  They come in the front door, and I hand them the key to their first home.  Sharon kept saying "I can't believe it, I just can't believe it."  It was then that I realized again that I love my job.  That was my extraordinary moment. 

I had an experience this past week that I thought I wouldn't have in this market.  I was referred Mr. and Mrs. Buyer last weekend  and they proceeded to tell me about two agents who told them she would give them most if not all of their commissions!  One agent told them she would give them $13,000, and another said she would pay their closing costs.  I remember this happening a lot when the market was hot and clients were being taken away from other agents because of these promises.  However, here's some things to think about.

1. If an agent is willing to give up most or all of their commission, how hard are they going to work for you?  After all, they're going to get paid little to nothing!
2. How much experience does this agent have if they have to give up most or all of their commission?  Sometimes newer agents will do this so they can get business and experience.
3. If you are offered this from an agent, ASK THEM TO PUT IT IN WRITING!  I bet you'll be surprised how quickly they'll back peddle.
4. Could this be violating any laws/rules?  Possibly.  If the agent is going to offer this, all parties to the transaction must be notified in writing.  It cannot be done outside of escrow.

There probably are more reasons that what I have listed here, but these seem to be at the top of my list.  Do agents sometimes give up some of their commission to get a deal done?  Yes, sometimes we do.  However, that should not be offered to entice you to work with them.

You should be interviewing the agent as though they are applying for a position in your company.  After all, they are going to be helping you buy or sell one of your most valued assets.  You need to ask them about their experience--not just the years in business, but how many transactions they've completed in the last six months.  Ask them for testimonials/referrals from past clients.  Do they jump from company to company?  How long have they lived in your area?  What makes them a strong negotiator?  I'm sure these questions will inspire more that you will want to ask.  But be sure to ask, ask, ask!

It really does take a strong team to close a deal today.  I know, that's a given, but let me explain.

So, just who are the team players?  Here's the list:

• Seller(s)
• Buyer(s)
• Agent(s)
• Lender
• Escrow Agent
• Title Representative

Now, there are also subcategories under each of these players.  For example, loan processors, escrow assistants, transaction coordinators, etc.  As for sellers, you could have a bank owned seller or a short sale seller.  In the case of a short sale seller, you add another party: the seller's lender, as they are the decision maker in this sale.

It's so important for my clients that I create a strong team so that we can get their escrows done with as few problems as possible.  When I represent a seller, I can usually choose the escrow company and title company with my clients permission.  I desire to work with vendors who have the same mentality that I do and that is "do what is best for the client and get the job done."  Fortunately, I work with several vendors that do just that and we've been able to close some very difficult deals in this San Diego market.

So what happens when I'm not able to chose the vendors that I work so well with?  What happens when I must work with a vendor that is difficult and doesn't step up to the plate?  Well, then my team is able to step up and fill in the gap.  There have been instances where we've had to do the job of the vendors or even the agent on the other side to get the deal closed.  Yes, it can be frustrating and exhausting.  And, yes, we shouldn't have to do that, but what is the common goal--GET THE DEAL DONE!

Today's real estate market has challenges for everyone.  However, build a strong team for your clients and you will be able to work through any challenge!  My job as an agent is to get these deals closed for my clients and do everything I can to make the experience as stress free as possible.

So, bottom line, build a strong team and you should be able to close your deals.  And, if you work with a player who isn't pulling their weight, be prepared to step in and do what needs to be done to get the deal closed!  That's our job!

Condo for Sale by Bay Park in San Diego, California (MLS#100003441)

Large 2 bedroom/2 bath condo for sale by Mission Bay.  This is not a short sale or bank owned!  The condo is an end unit on the second floor and features views to the bay from the glass enclosed patio. 

Additional features include a gated community with visitor parking, two assigned and covered parking spaces, elevator, swimming pools and spa, and full size washer/dryer in unit.

Stroll down to Mission Bay and watch the sunset.  Close to shopping and Interstate 5.

Seller can close quick!  Hurry, with Summer not too far off, this condo won't last!

View Larger Map