Costa Mesa's Neighborhood Blog

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade - 105 Years and Going Strong

Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:41:47 -0500

The Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade is an amazing celebration. Over the years it has seen such celebrities as President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Natalie Wood, Zsa Zsa Gabor, astronaut Buzz Aldrin and Shirley Jones.

It is an all day celebration which starts with the Surf City 5K Run at 7:00 am, which is followed by the Kiwanis' Pancake Breakfast in Lake Park.

At 10:00 am, the parade begins near the Huntington Beach Pier and heads down Main Street. It is quite an experience. Whether you have never been or have been attending for the last 20 years (or more), make sure you get out and see what all of the excitement is about.

The amazing fireworks display begins at 9:00 pm.

For more information see Huntington Beach Fourth of July Celebration.

For more Orange County Fourth of July events, see:

Costa Mesa Fireworks

Newport Beach Fourth of July Celebration - From the Right Side of the Bars

Newport Shores Fourth of July

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Christine Donovan!

Are you upside down in your home? Is it worth less than you owe? Are you concerned about making your mortgage payment? Contact me at christine@donovanblatt.com or 714-319-9751 to discuss your options.

Interested in selling Newport Beach Homes, buying Costa Mesa Real Estate, Huntington Beach or just Orange County real estate in general? Contact me at christine@donovanblatt.com or 714-319-9751 to learn about her system which will make your buying and selling experience easier.

Disclaimer: All information in this blog is deemed reliable but is subject to change at any time and is not guaranteed to be accurate nor are there any warantees either express or implied. This blog is not intended to offer any legal, tax or other advice.

Costa Mesa Fourth of July - How to Enjoy Your Fireworks

Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:23:29 -0500

Those of us who live in Costa Mesa are fortunate enough to live in only 1 of 5 cities in Orange County that allow fireworks.

Even so, there are definite rules as to what is allowed here.

Firecrackers, bottle rockets, cherry bombs and similar items are not allowed anywhere in California.

No fireworks may be set off in public parks, in parking lots, at schools, and all city parks will close at dusk on Fourth of July.

Although I have fond memories of them, no sparkers are permitted in Costa Mesa, much to my son's dissapointment.

Fireworks may be used between 4:00 pm and 10:00 pm on the Fourth of July only. So, make sure that you get your fill of fireworks during those hours. I know I will!

For more Orange County Fourth of July events, see:

Newport Beach Fourth of July Celebration - From the Right Side of the Bars

Newport Shores Fourth of July

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Christine Donovan!

Newport Beach Fourth of July Celebration - or How to Have a Safe & Sane 4th from the Right Side of the Bars

Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:08:30 -0500

Newport Beach is a great place to spend the Fourth of July though it's important to understand the ins and outs of a terrific celebration.

When I was younger, much farther back than I may want to admit, Newport Beach had fewer rules for Fourth of July. Every year, we lit off fireworks in front of my grandparents' home on the beach on the Newport Peninsula with dueling cannons booming from both ends of the block.

I thought that was a good as it could get. Then, as I got older, I discovered that there was another side to Newport Beach's Fourth of July celebration, party after party along Seashore.

Along the way, I learned a few things, some the hard way, some by observation.

Given all of the changes that have come over the intervening years, I wanted to share some wisdom for those about to embark on the Newport Peninsula/Seashore celebration.

DOs

Do have a great time.

Do meet new friends.

Do enjoy the beautiful weather and a beautiful beach.

Do ride your bike. It's a much easier way to get around on the 4th.

Do enjoy the fireworks at the Dunes.

DONTs

Don't drink in public streets, beach, etc.. When they say no alcohol in public, they mean it! Don't mess around. It's just not worth it! Stay at the party, and enjoy it there.

Don't set off fireworks in Newport Beach. Alhough fireworks are legal in Costa Mesa, they are not legal in Newport Beach. From 12:01 am Saturday until 3:00 am Sunday, most of the Peninsula will have fines and citations tripled. This zone runs from PCH and the ocean on the north and south to 54th Street on the west, and 32nd Street and Newport Boulevard on the east.

Don't try to drive on to the Peninsula. In an effort to contain the fun, the Peninsula is closed to vehicle traffic from PCH to 32nd Street for eastbound traffic. The closure begins at noon on 4th of July. So, if you're planning on heading down that way, get there early, or better yet, grab your bike and get some exercise and sun as you enjoy another great Newport Beach Fourth of July.

The rules may have gotten a bit more stringent over the years, but I still think Newport is the place to be if you want to have a rocking Fourth of July at the beach.

Have fun! And, I'd love to hear how it went for you; so, drop me a line and let me know.

For more Orange County Fourth of July events, see:

Costa Mesa Fireworks

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade

Newport Shores Fourth of July

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Christine Donovan!

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Newport Beach Fourth of July Celebration - or How to Have a Safe & Sane 4th from the Right Side of the Bars

Newport Shores Fourth of July Parade and Celebration

Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:08:38 -0500

For decades, Newport Shores has celebrated the Fourth of July with an annual Parade and Celebration. This year is no different.

It is something that my siblings and I anticipated every summer and always spent the night before decorating our bikes and, sometimes, ourselves.

The Parade

This year, the parade starts at 9:00 am at the clubhouse. Coffee and doughnuts will be available.

Get your bikes, scooters, wagons and yourselves decorated and get ready to celebrate.

The Evening

Beginning at 5:00 pm, catering will be available from TK Burgers, so come enjoy a full dinner for only $13.

So make sure you go out and enjoy this great tradition.

For more Orange County Fourth of July events, see:

Costa Mesa Fireworks

Newport Beach Fourth of July Celebration - From the Right Side of the Bars

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Christine Donovan!

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:41:02 -0500

The Mesa Verde neighborhood of Costa Mesa was largely built around the Mesa Verde Country Club, a private club and golf course Costa Mesa Country Club, which is a private course, is also located within Mesa Verde's boundaries.

Most of the homes in Mesa Verde were built in the 1960's and 1970's, with several of the homes actually built right along the golf course.

Mesa Verde is bordered by Fairview Regional Park and the Costa Mesa Golf Course on the south, Harbor Boulevard on the east, the Santa Ana River to the west, and the 405 (San Diego Freeway) on the north.

The Estancia Adobe, built in the late 1800's is also located within Mesa Verde in Estancia Park, and provides insight into the history of this wonderful area of Costa Mesa.

The Market Report for Mesa Verde is below:

Based upon general definitions, it appears that Central Costa Mesa should be in a Sellers' Market though it still appears to be a Buyers' market. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, we are in an unusual time and will have to see what happens over the next few months as things hopefully begin to stabilize.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Want to buy a home or to list your property for sale in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach or Orange County? Contact me at christine@donovanblatt.com or 714-319-9751 to learn about her system which will make your buying and selling experience easier.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Westside Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:31:52 -0500

Southwest Costa Mesa, better known as the Westside or Westside Costa Mesa, is a wonderful area of Costa Mesa which borders both Newport Beach and Huntington Beach. It is typically quantified as being West of Newport Boulevard.

It encompasses Fairview Park and the Talbert Nature Reserve.

It has a wide mix of homes ranging from single family homes, to condos and apartment buildings. The homes overlooking the bluffs, have beautiful views of the ocean and wildlife in the Santa Ana River.

The current market report for Westside Costa Mesa is below:

Based upon general definitions, it appears that Westside Costa Mesa should be in a Sellers' Market though it still appears to be a Buyers' market. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, we are in an unusual time and will have to see what happens over the next few months as things hopefully begin to stabilize.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa and nearby cities:

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Westside Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Eastside Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:23:20 -0500

Eastside Costa Mesa is a charming area of Costa Mesa which borders Newport Beach, and, as a result, tends to have higher property values than some other areas of the city. It is bounded by Irvine Boulevard on the east, Newport Boulevard on the west, 15th Street on the south and Mesa Drive on the north.

Most of the original lots in Eastside Costa Mesa are around 10,000 square feet, a large size lot in Orange County, which allows for space to expand smaller, older homes if desired.

Eastside Costa Mesa is known for wide streets and lovely, mature trees, homes with picket fences and an eclectic mix of different types of homes.

The current market report for Eastside Costa Mesa is below:

Based upon general definitions, it appears that Eastside Costa Mesa should be in a Sellers' Market because of the low inventory though many believe we are still in a Buyers' market. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, we are in an unusual time and will have to see what happens over the next few months as things hopefully begin to stabilize.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Eastside Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:53:19 -0500

Originally no more than a way station built by Spanish missionaries, Costa Mesa's first real estate development occurred in the 1880s. This failed to prosper, but Costa Mesa became an agricultural center known for apples and lima beans.

Long time residents may remember when the area was called Fairview and Paularino, but today, the city is a focal point in Orange County with the Orange County Performing Arts Center, South Coast Repertory Theatre and South Coast Plaza as major drawing points. It is hard to believe that Costa Mesa was once nicknamed "Goat Hill" because of its rural flavor.

The modern day Costa Mesa real estate market began as beach bungalows just minutes from the ocean. Even then, Costa Mesa, bordering Newport Beach, captured the best of Newport Beach living at a fraction of the cost. While Costa Mesa may be more affordable than comparable homes in Newport Beach or Corona Del Mar, this is a relative matter as all of Orange County real estate is perceived to be some of the most desirable in the United States.

The market report for Costa Mesa is below:

Based upon general definitions, it appears that Costa Mesa should be in a Sellers' Market based on the level of inventory, many still seem to believe we are in a Buyers' market. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, we are in an unusual time and will have to see what happens over the next few months as things hopefully begin to stabilize.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Central Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:30:39 -0500

Central Costa Mesa is an area of the city, triangular in shape, which is bordered by Harbor Boulevard, Baker Street and Newport Boulevard/ the 55 Freeway.

The Market Report for Central Costa Mesa is below:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - Central Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - South Coast Metro Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:23:01 -0500

South Coast Metro is an area that encompasses both Costa Mesa and Santa Ana. However, the South Coast Metro area in Costa Mesa usually refers to the area east of Bear Street and north of the 405 (San Diego Freeway). It is at the junction of Orange County's 55 and 405 freeways. It is the area of Costa Mesa closest to South Coast Plaza. In this unique neighborhood, premier office space and world class shopping vie with first class dining and performing arts venues to form a cosmopolitan blend of culture and business.

The Market Report for South Coast Metro is below:

Based upon general definitions, it appears that the South Coast Metro area of Costa Mesa should be in a Sellers' Market though it still appears to be a Buyers' market. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, we are in an unusual time and will have to see what happens over the next few months as things hopefully begin to stabilize.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 27, 2009 - South Coast Metro Costa Mesa Market Report.

A Quick Facebook Fan Pages Lesson - For Tonight's Big Vanity URL Landrush

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 20:49:36 -0500

I wrote a blog post a little earlier asking people to fan my business pages so that I could obtain a vanity URL.

As a result, I've had several comments with questions that several people seem to have about Facebook Fan Pages.

Fan pages are basically for businesses or celebrities.

These are separate from personal profile pages. business pages/fan pages/pages (all names seem to be used) have fans, not friends. Profile pages have friends.

The pages are used pretty interchangeably in some ways, but there are some cool differences, which I'll get into in a later post.

Tonight at midnight (EST), Facebook is allowing fan pages to get their own vanity URL like www.facebook.com/vitaminwater. To get one, you need to have a fan page that has 100 visitors. See www.facebook.com/username to get your vanity URL.

This is important because it makes it easier for people to find your fan page.

There is nowhere on profile page to become a fan. In order to become a friend on a profile page, you have to make a request; this isn't true on a fan page.

If you're not seeing the "become a fan" button at the top of the page, try two things.

1. Make sure it's a page and not a profile.

2. Make sure you have published the fan page.

If you would like to become a fan of my pages, please go to:

My pages are

http://www.facebook.com/s.php?q=donovan+group+realty&n=-1&k=400000000010&sf=r&init=q&sid=3e5d2d112058beef8ec309d9654d63c8#/pages/Donovan-Group-Realty/103853555728?ref=mf

and

http://www.facebook.com/s.php?q=donovan+group+realty&n=-1&k=400000000010&sf=r&init=q&sid=3e5d2d112058beef8ec309d9654d63c8#/pages/DonovanBlatt/116241618898?ref=mf

If you have any other questions, please let me know.

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. A Quick Facebook Fan Pages Lesson - For Tonight's Big Vanity URL Landrush.

Help Please - I Need Facebook Fans to Get My URL in an Hour! Updated

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 19:07:08 -0500

I just learned that in order to get a vanity URL on Facebook I need to have 25 fans. It turns out it's 100, not 25. I read the Facebook rules rather than the other post I saw.

I had no idea.

If you would be so kind as to become a fan on my pages, I will gladly return the favor.

Thank you so much.

My pages are

http://www.facebook.com/s.php?q=donovan+group+realty&n=-1&k=400000000010&sf=r&init=q&sid=3e5d2d112058beef8ec309d9654d63c8#/pages/Donovan-Group-Realty/103853555728?ref=mf

and

http://www.facebook.com/s.php?q=donovan+group+realty&n=-1&k=400000000010&sf=r&init=q&sid=3e5d2d112058beef8ec309d9654d63c8#/pages/DonovanBlatt/116241618898?ref=mf

The Newport Wedge - Body Surfing Hot Spot

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:55:33 -0500

The Newport Wedge is located at the mouth of Newport Harbor. It is a man made jetty built by the Army Corp of Engineers in the early 1900's.

As a result of the way it was a built, it has unique properties which cause huge waves a few times a year.

Waves can reach all the way up to 10 or 20 feet, bringing out some of the world's best body surfers.

On other days of the year, the Wedge is a great place for any one, but on those particular days, any amateurs would be well advised to stay away and leave it to the experts.

Whether you want to try body surfing or skim boarding, fishing from the rocks or just watch the boats come in and out of the harbor, the Newport Wedge is one more beautiful place in the magical city that we call home, Newport Beach.

To see what the Newport Wedge is all about, see the video below.

Looking for more things to do in the Newport Beach area? See:

Fun Things for Kids in the Newport Mesa Area: The Balboa Fun Zone

Top 5 Things to Do in Newport Mesa

A Four-Year Old's Perspective on the Orange County Fair

Orange County Fair Super Pass - Only $25

Fun, Free or Near Free Things to Do in and Around Costa Mesa

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

Fun Things for Kids in the Newport Mesa Area: The Balboa Fun Zone

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 02:47:32 -0500

There are not many places in the world where you can enjoy a carnival atmosphere next to a beautiful bay just minutes from a world class beach.

The Balboa Fun Zone is one of those rare places, although those of us fortunate enough to have been raised here may occasionally forget how special it is.

The Balboa Fun Zone's ferris wheel has been a landmark in the area since 1936.

I have decades of memories of coming to the Balboa Fun Zone to play skee ball, ride the ferris wheel, take the Balboa Ferry over to Balboa Island and enjoy a Balboa Bar while staring out at the Newport Bay.

Take a look at the video below to see just what a special place this is and all that the Balboa Fun Zone has to offer.

Looking for more things to do with your kids? See:

Top 5 Things to Do in Newport Mesa

A Four-Year Old's Perspective on the Orange County Fair

Orange County Fair Super Pass - Only $25

Fun, Free or Near Free Things to Do in and Around Costa Mesa

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:47:45 -0500

Most of the homes in Mesa Verde were built in the 1960's and 1970's, with several of the homes actually built right along the golf course.

The Estancia Adobe, built in the late 1800's is also located within Mesa Verde in Estancia Park, and provides insight into the history of this wonderful area of Costa Mesa.

The Market Report for Mesa Verde is below:

Mesa real estate,Costa Mesa homes,Costa Mesa real estate,Mesa Verde homes">

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Westside Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:36:35 -0500

It encompasses Fairview Park and the Talbert Nature Reserve.

The current market report for Westside Costa Mesa is below:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa and nearby cities:

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Westside Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Eastside Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:24:39 -0500

Most of the original lots in Eastside Costa Mesa are around 10,000 square feet, a large size lot in Orange County, which allows for space to expand smaller, older homes if desired.

Eastside Costa Mesa is known for wide streets and lovely, mature trees, homes with picket fences and an eclectic mix of different types of homes.

The current market report for Eastside Costa Mesa is below:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Eastside Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:17:39 -0500

The market report for Costa Mesa is below:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Central Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:09:01 -0500

Central Costa Mesa is an area of the city, triangular in shape, which is bordered by Harbor Boulevard, Baker Street and Newport Boulevard/ the 55 Freeway.

The Market Report for Central Costa Mesa is below:

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa:

South Coast Metro Real Estate Report

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

For more information, please visit Costa Mesa real estate.
For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - Central Costa Mesa Market Report.

Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 21, 2009 - South Coast Metro Costa Mesa Market Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:02:17 -0500

The Market Report for South Coast Metro is below:

Based upon general definitions, it appears that the South Coast Metro area of Costa Mesa should be in a Sellers' Market though many still say it's a Buyers' market. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, we are in an unusual time and will have to see what happens over the next few months as things hopefully begin to stabilize.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa and nearby cities:

Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Westside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Eastside Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

Central Costa Mesa Real Estate Report

How Do Real Estate Agents Get Paid?

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:46:24 -0500

Most people probably realize that real estate agents get paid by commission, but who pays that commission?

The answer is, it depends. The most common scenario is that an agent is paid by the seller when the house is sold.

Usually, the seller enters into a listing agreement with the listing agent to pay some percentage to the listing agent when his home is sold. The listing agent then agrees to share some of that commission with the agent who brings the buyer who buys the home.

Another option is that the bank might actually pay the commission to both the buyer's agent and the seller's agent. This happens in two situations.

First, the bank might be the actual owner of the home because the bank foreclosed on the home. In this case, the bank operates just like the usual seller might, entering into a listing agreement with the listing agent who then shares the commission with the buyer's agent.

The bank also, in essence, pays the real estate agents' commission when there is a short sale. In a short sale, the commission is paid from the proceeds of the sale, and the bank takes the remainder.

The third option is that the buyer could pay the buyer's agent's commission. This might occur, for instance, when the buyer wants the agent to represent him where a home is for sale by owner and the owner isn't paying any commissions.

Many people may not understand that buyers' agents are not paid unless they are the agent who writes the contract/offer for the buyer. If an agent were to show someone 15 homes and educate the buyer about current market conditions and then the buyer were to walk into an open house and write an offer with the agent who was there, the agent who had shown them homes would not be compensated in any way for the time spent with the buyer.

Buyers have the right to choose the best agent to represent them, just as sellers do. However, like sellers, I believe that buyers should commit to that agent so that when the buyers do find the right home, the agent is compensated for all the work done.

Some buyers want the opportunity to work with several different agents or to only work directly with the listing agent; I believe this is their right. However, I believe they should communicate this to the agents with whom they are working.

It is my usual practice to have my buyers sign an agreement to work with me, just as I do with my sellers.

I believe in educating my buyers, and I believe that my time and my knowledge and expertise are worthwhile, and I choose not to spend large amouns of time with buyers who are not committed to working solely with me as their consultant.

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

Remember to Buy Your Orange County Fair Super Pass by June 28

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:53:30 -0500

The Super Pass allows access to the entire Fair for one price if purchased by June 28, 2009. The pass is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (60+) and $15 for children 6 to 12.

The Orange County Fair runs this year from July 10 to August 9.

For more information see Super Pass.

Curious to see what the Fair is all about, check out A Four Year Old's Perspective on the Orange County Fair.

See you at the Fair!

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

Do Rental Property Owners Qualify for the $8,000 First Time Buyers Tax Credit?

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 13:28:10 -0500

According to the IRS, a taxpayer who has owned rental property for the past three years may qualify for the credit. That person may not have lived and used the home as a primary residence for the past three years.

So, for those who have rental properties but do not live in a house you own and have been wishing you could take advantage of the first time buyers' tax credit, you just may be able to do so.

The tax credit is available to qualified taxpayers who close on their new home by November 30, 2009.

For more information on the tax credit see $8,000 first time buyers' credit.

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate Minute June 13, 2009 - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Market Report.

Do You Have Big Shoes to Fill?

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 18:00:52 -0500

Do you ever feel like you have big shoes to fill? Perhaps a parent, grandparent, teacher, or mentor?

For me, I have several sets of shoes that I feel I should be filling.

My sister, my little sister no less, has been selling hundreds of houses out in Texas, being rookie of the year and doing an amazing job for her clients right out of the gate.

My mother was a single mom raising 3 or 4 kids, depending on the year while running her mortgage company.

My grandmother used her "pin" money which she earned as a part-time substitute teacher to play the stock market and then use those proceeds to make down payments on several properties in Southern California.

I feel I've done pretty well, a couple of bachelors degrees from Berkeley, a law degree from Pepperdine, two great kids, a real estate brokerage and a law firm, but the women in my family have given me a lot for which to strive.

So, (you knew it was coming didn't you?) whose shoes do you strive to fill?

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate - Why is it so Hard to Buy a Home in a "Buyers'" Market?

Costa Mesa Real Estate – Why is it so Hard to Buy a Home in a “Buyers’” Market?

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:42:47 -0500

If you've been listening to the media and not living under a rock for the last couple of years, you're probably aware that the median home price in Orange County has come down nearly 40%.

You've probably heard over and over again that we're in a buyers' market. Perhaps you've thought it might be a good time to go out and "steal" a property from a desperate seller.

If this is true, why are so many buyers frustrated as they attempt to buy a home, finding themselves over and over again in multiple offer situations and often bidding over asking price while still losing out on the home they hope to purchase?

In considering the answer to this question, I looked at the graph below:

There are 168 homes for sale currently in Costa Mesa. On July 1, 2008, there were 356 homes for sale in Costa Mesa.

Inventory is less than half of what it was a year ago. In addition, nearly 1/3 more homes are selling each month than were selling a year ago.

Homes under $500,000 seem to be particularly competitive. My belief is that this is because there are many first time buyers seeking to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit before it expires on November 30, 2009. In addition, if the loan amount is under the conforming amount of $417,000, a buyer can get better rates than on larger loans.

All of this results in it being more difficult to purchase a home.

Does this mean that a buyer should just not bother looking for a home?

Not at all, it just means that you need to be patient and get some good advice from a real estate consultant on how to proceed with your purchase in this competitive "buyers'" market.

If you are considering buying a home in Costa Mesa or the surrounding areas, and would like some advice on how to proceed, please feel free to e-mail Me! or call me at 714.319.9751.

For more information on this topic see: It's a Buyers' Market Right - So Why Should a Buyer be in a Hurry to Buy? Waiting Lines in a Buyers' Market? ***************************************************************************

About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

Click Orange County homes for sale to view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved. Costa Mesa Real Estate – Why is it so Hard to Buy a Home in a “Buyers’” Market?