Ellie's Blog

How is Altadena Market?

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:25:23 -0500

Checking the MLS today, Altadena market showed:

70 Active Listings
18 Pendings as of 9/1/2009
35 Closed Sale as of 9/1/2009
Lowest Price Active $249,900 (597 Crosby Street)
Highest Price Active $3,500,000 (2212 Crescent Drive)
Lowest Price Sold $205,000 (335 Crosby Street)
Highest Price Sold $1,500,000 (1533 E. Altadena Drive)

Efficient Mortgage - What is it?

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:40:21 -0500

Many home owners put off making energy-efficient upgrades because of cost and believe there is no way they can afford it. Well, maybe you can do those improvement you have been dreaming of. It may be time to "stop" the stop. Energy-efficient mortgage program (EEM) and new tax credit for upgrades could help you out.

EEM lets home buyers or owners the ability to finance cost of adding energy-efficient features to new or exiting homes as par tof the FHA-insured purchase or re-fi mortgage. EEM has been around since the 1980's but under used.

This could be the best time for home owners to think seriously about upgrades that will help lower the utility bills and increase value of your home. The maximum the FHA allowed was $8000 and that was recently modified. Now the maxium amount of portion of the EEM for improvements is to be lesser of 5% of the value of the property or 115% of the median area price of a single family dwelling or 150% of the conforming Freddie Mac limit. Also, under the stimulus plan, upgrades are eligible for tax credit of 30% of qualifying costs up to $1500 but this is only through 2010.

EEM are sponsored by federaly insured mortgage program and conventional secondary mortgage market. To get started, you need to have a CHEERS rater (called CHEERS which is California Home Energy Efficiency Rating Services) or another approved rater to give you an analysis, and get a report. The report will be submitted to the lender. The report will show the current condition of the home, and savings after upgrades.

Energy Auditor Sites:

The California Building Performance Contractors Assn. www.cbpca.org/homeowners/index.html

CHEERS - California Home Energy Efficiency Rating Services www.cheers.org

CalCERTS, Inc www.calcerts.com/index.cfm

Other useful sites for more info:

Energy Star www.energystar.gov

Find out about the FHA and EEM http://portal.hud.gov/

FHA lender list www.hud.gov/ll/code/llslcrit.cfm

New Listings In Altadena Area

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:39:11 -0500

Here are NEW LISTINGS in Altadena (as of 7.27.09). There are some pretty stunning looking homes in the $1,000,000 range.

Address	Listing #	Price	Days on Market	BD, BA	Sq. Ft.
548 Royce St.	I09080238	$155,000	4	3bd, 2ba	1413
335 Crosby St.	09385405	$235,000	7	3bd, 1ba	1120
102 Laurel Dr.	I09090901	$375,000	1	3bd, 2ba	1742
289 W Terrace St.	I09080124	$415,000	9	3bd, 1ba	1458
3340 Crestford	R904607	$659,000(v)	5	4bd, 4ba	2490
2189 N Altadena	22127738	$845,000	2	3bd, 3ba	1918
19223 E Loma Alta	22127534	$1,125,000	7	3bd, 3ba	2580
2069 Midlothian	T09080155	$1,595,000	4	4bd, 3ba	3096
1751 Homewood	22127587	$1,890,000	n/a	6bd, 6ba	6923
1987 Midwick	22127581	$1,899,000	6	3bd, 3ba	3502
1720 Braeburn Rd	22127574	$1,995,000	6	4bd, 5ba	3528

*Information from Itech MLS, can change w/o notice.

May Sales Report from California Assn. of Realtors

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:26:02 -0500

According to recent report from CAR, existing sale of single family homes reported in May showed an increase of 35.2%, while the median home price declined by 30.4%. The statewide median price of an existing single family home increased 4.2% in May.

Statewide Median Home Price May 2009

Sngle Family Home $267,570
Condo $236,660

Home prices are affordable for first time home buyers, plus the low mortgage rates and buyer tax credits are bringing many people out into the real estate market. And buyers may not get a chance like this again for a long time.

The 10 cities in California with the highest median home price in May 2009 were:

Los Altos $1,484,000
Palo Alto $1,400,000
Cupertino $965,000
Santa Barbara $870,750
danville $785,500
Los Gatos $769,500
Santa Monica $740,000
Arcadia $700,000
Campbell $691,000

WOW - 77 Homes For Sale In Altadena

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:23:20 -0500

So here I am, searching active listings in City Of Altadena and WOW.

Do you remember years back when you could not find a home to sell your clients? Or, a new listing comes up on the market and there are 20 buyers and agents outside the house during caravan?

Today, I look on the multiple and find 77 listings of single family homes available in Altadena. I wished I had 77 qualified buyers... FYI, what are the prices out there...

14 homes are under $400,000
16 homes are over one million
3 homes are over two million

New listings to check out:

3033 Glen Ave. 3 bed, 2 bath $379,900
1892 E. Altadena Dr. 3 bed, 1 bath $595,000
1016 Alta Pine, 3 bed, 2 bath $689,000

Majority of homes are priced over 1/2 million ($500,000). Though we hear that prices have gone down, to find a decent home in Altadena (and Pasadena) is still challenging for many first time buyers.

Home Staging The Low Budget Way

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Sat, 09 May 2009 20:26:23 -0500

Just like the clothes and shoes we wear, they go out of style and home decoration goes out of style too. We get so used to our setting and become comfortable; we cannot think of seeing them go. Eventually, everything needs to be updated. And updating does not have to be expensive. Little touch here and there can really make a smashing difference. Here are few inexpensive way to update your home.

Just rearranging furniture can give a different feel and energy to a room. Add and remove furniture, area rugs, lamps, shelf, tables, etc. Mirrors are great to give a new look to a room.

Houseplants are a great way to give warmth and color to a room. Choose a decorative planter and see how it changes the feel of a room. Different plants, size, shape, and color can be very dramatic influence to a room.

Color, color, color. Paint is one of the most cost effective ways to dress a room. Many stores now carry a small "test size" paint containers. Now, you can test the color on the walls before painting the whole room.

De-clutter. Add shelves to display your favorite collectibles, book, picture frames. Place hooks inside the doors to hang items. Use baskets and bins to place magazines. Even if you don't remove or throw things away, just neatly organizing and placing things back to where it was can make a difference.

Hide an area away such as a banged up wall. How? A paintable wall paper can smooth out a dented wall. Or just move some plants and furniture, or use a screen to camouflage.

Change old cabinet handles, switch plates (with colorful and design), knobs for a small cost. Even new towels and toilet seats can give a new and clean feel to a bathroom.

Room light can make a big impact on how a home looks. Whether the home looks dark, bright, harsh all depend on the lighting. Remember light sets the mood. Control the lighting and create the mood.

Just plain "Clean Up." Get rid of that fingerprint on the wall, scrub the bathroom, mop the floor, shampoo the carpet, and dust the shelves. It's one of the most inexpensive ways to make a room look new again.

Altadena Homes Sold In Month Of March

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:23:17 -0500

Market is HOT, HOT, HOT. Who says it's a down market? Eleven homes sold at/or above list price.

Altadena Homes Sold (closed escrow) the Month of March

Address	Bed, Bath	SQ FT	List Price	Sold Price	SP % LP
1028 Morada	2, 1	600	$160,000	$130,000	81.25
2100 El Sereno	2, 1	1145	$209,900	$210,000	100.05
66 W Mendocino	2, 1	1016	$250,900	$240,000	95.66
160 W Palm	2, 1	993	$264,900	$286,300	108.08
853 Figueroa	3, 2	1462	$274,900	$291,700	106.11
427 W Poppyfields	2, 1	858	$299,999	$305,000	101.67
2618 Glen	2, 1	1011	$325,000	$310,000	98.41
631 Mendocino	3, 2	1268	$299,900	$316,500	105.54
503 Crosby	3, 1	1240	$349,000	$349,000	100.00
3321 Raymond	3, 1	1482	$369,925	$350,000	94.61
686 Royce	3, 2	1196	$352,500	$350,000	99.29
150 W Mariposa	3, 1	1420	$399,000	$370,000	92.73
2747 Visscher	2, 1	1277	$370,000	$390,000	105.41
48 Reever Wy	4, 3	2094	$430,000	$430,000	100.00
3589 Glenrose	3, 2	1477	$406,000	$433,000	106.65
1272 E Loma Alta	3, 2	1780	$394,900	$440,000	114.32
1270 Rubio St	5, 5	4723	$1,695,000	$1,695,000	100.00

*courtesy of ITECH MLS, subject to change.

Altadena Home Sold In February 2009

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:05:32 -0500

Homes Are Selling In Altadena. Nine homes sold for asking or over list price. Check the price and %.

Address	Bed, Bath	SQ FT	List Price	Sold Price	SP % LP
605 Alberta	2, 2	1512	$279,900	$270,000	96.46
2620 Glenrose	2, 2	937	$315,000	$315,000	100.00
2785 Fair Oaks	3, 1	1208	$319,777	$325,000	101.63
374 Mountain View	5, 5	2067	$364,900	$360,000	98.66
2574 Lincoln	5, 3	n/a	$374,900	$375,000	100.03
278 Altadena	3, 2	1176	$375,000	$375,000	100.00
2612 Casitas	3, 1	1124	$429,000	$429,999	100.00
559 E Mount Curve	4, 2	1141	$435,000	$435,000	100.00
1747 Roosevelt	2, 1	1287	$438,500	$450,000	102.62
3251 Olive	3, 2	1420	$499,000	$475,000	95.19
2430 Mar Vista	3, 2	1079	$499,000	$499,000	100.00
327 W Mariposa	3, 1	1192	$525,000	$510,000	97.14
3128 N Mt. Curve	2, 1	1222	$565,000	$520,000	92.04
3000 Santa Rosa	3, 2	1785	$599,900	$611,000	101.85
602 Church Canyon	3, 3	4082	$1,369,000	$1,320,000	96.42
1375 E Mendocino	5, 3	3601	$1,375,000	1,500,000	109.09

*courtesy of ITECH MLS, subject to change.

Altadena Homes Sold In January 2009 $600,000 and UP

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:49:55 -0500

Here are Homes that closed escrow in Janaury 2009 priced $600,000 and UP in Altadena.

Address	Bed, Bath	SQ FT	List Price	Sold Price	SP % LP
3061 Via Maderas	3, 2	1858	$659,000	$630,000	95.60
912 E Palm	3, 2	2010	$685,000	$658,200	96.09
2074 Sinaloa	3, 3	1943	$759,000	$695,000	91.57
2122 Grand Oaks	3, 2	1993	$815,000	$795,000	97.55
1600 Woodglen	3, 3	1941	$929,900	$925,000	99.57
1605 Woodglen	3, 3	2325	$1,085,000	$1,050,000	96.77
712 Millard Cnyn	5, 4	3881	$1,999,000	$1,125,000	93.83
2795 Holliston	3, 5	3915	$2,400,000	$2,200,000	91.67

*courtesy ITECH MLS, not verfied, subject to change.

Altadena Homes Sold In January 2009 $400,000-$550,000

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:37:11 -0500

Surprise, Surprise! The selling price (SP) percentage to listing price (LP) is pretty remarkable.

Altadena Homes Sold In January (closed escrow) $400,000 - $550,000

Address	Bed, Bath	SQ FT	List Price	Sold Price	SP % LP
590 Buena Loma	2, 1	1209	$425,000	$410,000	96.47
3528 McNally	2, 2	1632	$419,900	$420,000	100.02
2677 Lake	2, 1	1211	$469,000	$430,000	91.51
4390 N El Prieto	3, 2	1302	$435,000	$442,500	101.72
1353 E Loma Alta	3, 2	1487	$474,900	$474,900	100.00
3990 Alzada	3, 2	1720	$499,000	$480,000	96.19

*courtesy of Itech MLS - has not been verified and subject to change.

Japanese Garden In Urban Downtown Los Angeles - Find Peace and Relax

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:42:03 -0500

When you think of downtown Los Angeles, you think of smog, people, office buildings, traffic jam, and more. Well, think again!

Yes, you can find peace and serenity in downtown Los Angeles. WHERE? At the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center.

Located in the prime area of Little Tokyo District is the JACCC which is home to the beautiful James Irvine Japanese Garden.

Jamese Irvine Japanese Garden, called the Seiryu-en (Garden of the Clear Stream) was designed by Dr. Uesugi with inspiration from many famous Japanese Gardens, especially in Kyoto, Japan. This garden is the best kept secret in Little Tokyo (Los Angeles).

Featuring a 170 ft. stream, the garden begins as a waterfall in the upper reaches. In the middle cascades, the stream divides, and finally the stream become a quiet murmur, ending in a calm pond. Surrounded by blooming trees and foliage, the garden offers much needed peacefulness to the downtown residents and workers.

Azalea, Bamboo, Camellia, Japanese Wisteria, Fornight Lily, Magnolia, Japanese Black Pine all come together in the garden.

The Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC's) new On the Veranda series offers cultural workshops, lectures and demonstrations amidst the beauty of newly renovated Japanes Garden.

Programs planned at the JACCC Garden Room are:

Ikebana (flower arrangemet)
Chado (tea ceremony)
Bonsai
Shodo (Calligraphy)

The Garden is open to the public, and available for special events and weddings. Go check it out.

Altadena Homes Sold In January 2009 Sale Price Under $400,000

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:18:12 -0600

Here Are List Of Homes Sold In Altadena For The Month Of January 2009 Under $400,000.

There are several homes priced in $200,000 - $400,000 range.

Eight properties sold over 100% Sale Price to List Price.

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq. Ft.	Year	List Price	Sale Price

62 W Terrace	1bd, 1ba	628	1948	$202,900	$210,000
3562 Glenrose	2bd, 1ba	678	1949	$224,900	$227,000
60 E Palm	2bd, 1ba	883	1916	$320,000	$250,000
2385 Glenrose	2bd, 1ba	1036	1922	$259,900	$269,900
661 W Harriet	2bd, 1ba	1076	1948	$259,777	$275,000
86 Wapello	4bd, 2ba	1255	1949	$284,900	$275,000
392 W Palm	3bd, 2ba	1478	1945	$299,000	$300,000
172 Marathon	4bd ,3ba	1300		$310,500	$310,500
1229 Sunny Oak Cir	4bd, 4ba	2052	1950	$374,850	$315,000
2303 Glenrose	3bd, 2ba	1382	1957	$299,600	$320,000
560 Alberta	2bd, 1ba	1062	1925	$399,000	$350,000
2272 El Sereno	3bd, 2ba	1148	1946	$349,000	$370,000
374 W Mariposa	3bd, 3ba	1952	1929	$399,900	$392,000

Information Provided As A Courtesy by the i-Tech MLS, has not been verified, and subject to change.

Altadena Homes Sold In December 2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 15:48:59 -0600

Homes Are Selling In San Gabriel Valley.

Altadena Homes Sold In The Month Of December 2008.

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq. Ft.	Year	Original Price	Sale Price

3010 Glenrose	2bd, 1ba	825	1946	$189,900	$190,000
89 Figueroa	2bd, 1ba	1200	1935	$270,000	$255,000
486 Divirian	2bd, 1ba	948	1942	$259,000	$260,000
2188 Navarro	2bd, 1ba	1258	1925	$299,900	$290,000
583 W Harriet	4bd, 2ba	1392	1921	$294,900	$320,000
725 Mountain View	3bd, 1ba	1320	1925	$299,000	$322,000
2888 Calanda	3bd, 1ba	948	1942	$450,000	$335,000
3221 Thurin	4bd, 2ba	1650	1947	$369,000	$400,008
1023 E Mendocino	3bd, 2ba	1700	1928	$475,000	$$405,00
2976 Bargen Way	4bd, 2ba	1791	1947	$549,999	$420,000
23 E Manor	2bd, 2ba	1570	1947	$419,900	$420,900
2454 Santa Anita	3bd, 2ba	1347	1958	$600,000	$425,000
438 W Loma Alta	3bd, 2ba	1658	1963	$439,900	$445,000
2286 Navarro	3bd, 2ba	1364	1926	$429,200	$459,000
297 W Palm	3bd, 1ba	1120	1924	$517,000	$465,000
2868 Marengo	3bd, 2ba	1370	1954	$575,000	$475,000
1717 Harding	3bd, 2ba		1937	$569,900	$502,000
2071 Maiden Ln	2bd, 2ba	1070	1910	$620,000	$559,000
3508 Marengo	4bd	2208	1964	$565,000	$560,000
2272 Norwic Pl	3bd, 2ba	1332	1928	$649,000	$599,000
2567 N Altadena	3bd, 2ba	2017	1951	$799,000	$690,000
1005 Parkman	4bd, 3ba	1960	1925	$729,000	$715,500
2071 N Altadena	4bd, 3ba	1960	1947	$829,000	$780,000
2067 Meadowbrook	4bd, 3ba	2486	1936	$1,225,000	$972,000

Average SF: 1500 SF
High: $972,000
Low: $190,000
Median: $435,000
SF Avg: $311.40 per sf

*Information provided as courtesy by i-Tech MLS, has not been verified & subject to change.

Price Still The Number #1 Marketing Tool To Sell A Home

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:06:04 -0600

When a seller decides to sell a home, we offer the client consultation, a market analysis and our marketing/selling strategies. However, the most important factor in selling a home comes down to "Pricing It Correctly."

Especially in a suprising competitive, challenging market like we are having right now with many short sales and foreclosure sales, a seller need to be able to outperform in price and value among these properties.

Today at our meeting, an agent spoke about a short sale that received over 40 offers. Another agent spoke of one with 12 offers.

I listed a condo in Glendale on Thanksgiving Day. Through that weekend, I received over dozen calls to show the property. I was in Oklahoma visiting in-laws. My phone kept ringing, when agents and buyers, you think, would be enjoying the football games and the leftover turkey and stuffing.

The last unit that sold in the complex was last year, sold in the low $400,000. I recommended to list the property in the mid $300,000 range. And it worked. We had 3 offers, and sold the unit in less than 2 weeks.

Buyers are looking for value. If the condition of the home and the price does not go hand in hand, then the price needs to be adjusted. It is much better for the seller to preserve their equity in this market, then to try to hold on the price and have their home listing go stale, at the end possibly receiving an unexpected low offer.

GLENDALE CONDO "Great Price, Great Unit, Great Location"

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:03:55 -0600

345 North Kenwood Unit 205, Glendale, CA 91206

FOR SALE LISTED AT $379,000

This is a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo located in prime Glendale downtown location. Minutes to all the shops and walk to restaurnts on Brand Blvd. Banks, Portos, 24 Hr. Fitness, all in walking distance.

Master Suite, Balcony, Fireplace, Dining area, Central Air/Heat, 1402 SQ. FT., 2 car parking space, nice tree-lined street, appliances, and more.

MLS #22118401

Altadena Homes Sold From November 15 - November 30, 2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:02:27 -0600

Here are list of home Sold - Close Esrow in City of Altadena From 11/15 - 11/30/2008.

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq.Ft.	Year Built	Original Price	Sale Price

2353 Canyada	2bd, 1ba	876	1928	$229,900	$240,000
468 W Altadena	3bd, 2ba	1534	1946	$329,000	$310,000
2832 Lincoln	3bd, 1ba	1184	1946	$334,900	$315,000
2517 Olive	2bd, 1ba	1000	1941	$395,000	$360,000
734 W Loma Alta	3bd, 1ba	1175	1950	$358,000	$360,000
715 Alberta	2bd, 0ba	1144	1947	$518,000	$420,000
835 E Woodbury	6bd, 4ba	3624	1933	$1,1999,000	$1,099,000
Listing Count: 7

High Price $1,099,000
Median Price $360,000
Low Price $240,000
$ per sq. ft. $296.98
Average Sq. Ft. 1505

Informaiton provide courtesy of Itech MLS, not verfied, not guranteed, and is subject to change.

Altadena Homes Listed From November 15 Through November 30, 2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:42:25 -0600

Here are homes listed in City of Altadena, information from Pasadena Foothill Association of Realtors (Itech MLS) from 11/15 through 11/20/2008.

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq.Ft.	Year Built	Original Price	List Price

41 W. Harriet	3bd, 2ba	1118	1925	$329,900	$329,000
599 Devirian Pl	2bd, 1ba	909	1941	$369,999	$369,999
2574 Lincoln	5bd, 3ba	0	1950	$407,900	$407,900
676 E. Palm	4bd, 3ba	1408	1923	$499,000	$499,000
728 Colman	4bd, 4ba	2462	1972	$545,000	$545,000
327 W. Mariposa	3bd, 1ba	1192	1925	$549,000	$549,000
2315 Sinaloa	3bd, 2ba	1654	1948	$895,000	$895,000
1356 La Solana	4bd, 4ba	2172	1925	$950,000	$950,000
Listing Count: 8

Average:

Sq.Ft. 1,559
High Price $950,000
Median Price $522,000
Low Price $329,900

Information provided courtesy of Itech MLS, has not been verified, guarantee, subject to change.

Altadena Listings - Market Activity Homes SOLD November 1-15, 2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:06:56 -0600

Altadena SOLD Listings

Here is a report of homes which closed escrow in Altadena November 1-15, 2008.

*Address*	*Bed, Bath*	*Sq. Ft.*	*Year Built*	*Original Price*	*Sale Price*

3060 El Nido	2bd, 1ba	1069	1949	$274,000	$290,000
67 E. Las Flores	2bd, 1ba	1166	1922	$539,000	$485,000
104 E. Mariposa	3bd, 2ba	1530	1926	$579,000	$545,500
1724 Pepper	3bd, 2ba	1790	1948	$725,000	$685,000
802 Millard Canyon	5bd, 5ba	3886	1998	$1,349,000	$1,235,000
2588 Boulder	4bd, 3ba	3881	1948	$1,550,000	$1,300,000

Average Sq. Ft. is 2,220.
Average price per Sq. Ft. is $346.54
Median Price is $615,250

Information courtesy of Itech MLS, not been verified, is not guaranteed, and subject to change.

Altadena Listings - Market Activity for New Listings Nov. 1 through Nov. 15, 08

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:57:41 -0600

Here are listings of single family homes (attached/detached) which were listed November 1 through November 15, 2008.

*Address*	*Bed, Bath*	*Sq. Ft.*	*Year Built*	*Original Price*	*List Price*

2618 Glen	2bd, 1ba	1011	1928	$315,000	$315,000
60 E. Palm	2bd, 1ba	883	1916	$320,000	$320,000
160 W. Palm	2bd, 1ba	993	1950	$344,900	$344,900
380 E. Pentagon	2bd, 1ba	780	1949	$399,000	$399,000
1780 New York	2bd, 2ba	1331	1941	$458,500	$399,900
1747 Roosevelt	2bd, 1ba	1287	1939	$438,500	$438,500
780 Figueroa	3bd, 2ba	1406	1948	$612,000	$612,000
1085 New York	4bd, 2ba	1813	1967	$875,876	$875,876
664 Millard Canyon	4bd, 3ba	2507	1998	$995,000	$995,000
1605 Woodglen	3bd, 3ba	2325	1960	$1,175,000	$1,175,000
842 La Vina	5bd, 6ba	2307	2003	$1,899,000	$1,899,000
1155 Dolores	4bd, 6ba	4264	1931	$2,495,000	$2,495,000

Average Sq. Ft. is 1916
Average price per Sq. Ft is $417.70
Median Price is $525,250

*Information provided courtesy of Itech MLS, not been verified, is ot guaranteed, and subject to change.

Do I Need An Energy Audit?

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 16:27:50 -0600

So we have tax audit, why not an energy audit?

The first step to finding out how much energy your home uses and measure how you can be more efficient starts with getting an "energy audit."

Energy audits started 20 or so years ago, and such inspections were mostly done on commerical properties. Nowadays, test can be done inexpensively for residential homes. The audit tests rooms for leasks and air filtration to see how much energy is used or lost in a home.

You can start by checking your home by yourself. Look for air leaks, checking both inside and outside. Check faucets for leak that may need caulking.

The U.S. Department of Energy Web site has an instruction for "Do It Yourselfers." Getting an inspection done professionally is recommended. You can contact the California Building Performance Contractors Association for reference. It's a non-profit organization that trains and certifies contractors through its Green Home Energy Update Program. Audits begin in the price range of $300 - $1000. You can also go to Energy Star and click on home improvement tag for more info on audits.

Altadena Listings Sold - Market Activity From 10/15 through 10/31/2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:40:00 -0600

Here are properties which closed escrowed in Altadena, CA from October 15 through October 31, 2008.

*Altadena Listings Sold/Closed Escrow from October 15 through October 31, 2008*

Address	Bed, Bath	SqFt	Year Built	Sold Price
782 Neldome	3bd, 1ba	1151	1947	$290,000
2826 El Nido	2bd, 1ba	874	1946	$290,000
2795 Fair Oaks	2bd, 1ba	777	1947	$315,000
2471 Lincoln	2bd, 1ba	1021	1938	$320,000
2122 Casitas	5bd, 2ba	1700	1923	$365,000
560 W. Loma Alta	4bd 2ba	1462	1947	$367,000
55 W. Manor	2bd, 1ba	918	1946	$410,000
148 W. Mendocino	3bd, 2ba	1447	1927	$445,000
619 E. Sacramento	3bd, 2ba	1755	1962	$490,000
2765 Scripps	3bd, 2ba	1691	1960	$510,000
1284 E. Loma Alta	4bd, 2ba	1635	1950	$619,500
4200 Aralia	3bd, 2ba	1565	1960	$625,000
2246 Maiden Ln	3bd, 2ba	1866	1925	$716,000
3469 Hollyslope	3bd, 3ba	3281	2004	$719,000
985 Poppyfields	3bd, 2ba	2286	1932	$763,705
1760 Alta Crest	3bd, 2ba	1816	1949	$899,000

Listing count: 18
Average SqFt: 1564
Average Price SqFt: $324.70

*Information courtesy of Itech MLS, has not been verified, no guaranteed and is subject to change.

Altadena Market Activity New Listings - 10/15/08 through 10/31/08

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:34:01 -0600

Here are new listings from Itech MLS in Altadena, CA from October 15 - October 31, 2008.

*Active Properties Listing In Altadena From 10/15 - 10/31/2008*

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq. Ft.	Year Built	Price
3010 Glenrose	2bd, 1ba	825	1946	$189,000
486 Devirian	2bd, 1ba	948	1942	$259,000
89 Figueroa	2bd, 1ba	1200	1935	$270,000
583 Harriet	4bd, 2ba	1392	1921	$294,000
2188 Navarro	2bd, 1ba	1258	1925	$299,000
2517 Olive	2bd, 1ba	1000	1941	$395,000
3528 McNally	2bd, 2ba	1632	1947	$419,900
150 W. Mariposa	3bd, 2ba	1420	1926	$425,000
2994 N. Raymond	3bd, 2ba	1897	1953	$460,000
1353 E. Loma Alta	3bd, 2ba	1487	1958	$474,900
3508 Marengo	4bd, 0ba	2208	1964	$565,000
3128 N. Mount Curve	2bd, 1ba	1222	1938	$565,000
2430 Mar Vista	3bd, 2ba	1079	1941	$575,000
933 Poppyfields	3bd, 2ba	1429	1952	$598,000
673 Stonehurst	3bd, 3ba	2545	1947	$720,000
3759 N. Hollingsworth	4bd, 4ba	2550	1998	$1,050,000
602 Church Canyon	3bd, 3ba	4082	2001	$1,369,000
2001 Midlothian	4bd, 3ba	2815	1937	$1,398,000

Listing Count: 18
Average SqFt: 1722
Average List Price: $573,806
Average Price per SqFt: $327.13

*Information courtesy by Itech MLS (not been verified & subject to change).

Door Knocking - Together With The Postman And Jehovah Witness

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:10:54 -0500

Another nice day in sunny Southern California. I get my door hangers ready and out I go to stomp the pavement of Altadena neighborhood.

After few doors, I find someone walking behind me and it's the postman. I walk up the door, he walks up the door. Then he passes me, then I do the same. The dog sees the postman, then the dog sees me and barks like crazy.

I take a different street later to avoid the postman, only to find him on Highview Street. I tell him, "You are on my street, and affecting my business." Then he said, "I do this everyday." And he notes, I am not wearing the right shoes to walk. Well, he finishd the street faster than me and off before I was able to get back up to the main street.

Then I see three well dressed women going door to door. Today is hot, and they are in their nice dress, blazer and fancy shoes. They don't seem like Realtors (I say to myself). I get to one door, then another only to find out that they are passing out booklet from Jehovah Witness, and I am right behind them.

I do have to give them credit for their tenancity and commitment.

Well, no wonder people are not answering my knocks today. They already had visitors before me!

Altadena Home Sale Price From October 1 through October 15, 2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:54:10 -0500

Here is the report for homes sold in Altadena, CA from October 1 through October 15, 2008. Yes, homes are selling and few are selling at or over the list price. Check it out.

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq. Ft.	Year Built	List Price	Sale Price
380 E. Pentagon	2 bd, 1 ba	770	1949	$197,900	$331,000
27 E. Mariposa	2 bd, 2 ba	1695	1947	$379,000	$379,000
3507 McNally	3 bd, 2 ba	1724	1947	$460,000	$475,000
3164 Crestford	4 bd, 2 ba	1530	1952	$488,000	$488,000
2858 Highview	3 bd, 2 ba	1370	1948	$629,000	$609,000
1181 Boston	4 bd, 3 ba	2978	1923	$1,150,000	$1,031,500
2332 Midlothian	0 bd, 7 ba	5303	1928	$1,600,000	$1,600,000

*information courtesy of Itech MLS data.

New Listings In Altadena Over $500,000 - 10/1 - 10/15/2008

Ellie Viray, Realtor (Dilbeck GMAC Real Estate) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:06:47 -0500

Here are new listings in Altadena from October 1 through October 15, 2008 over the price $500,000.

Address	Bed, Bath	Sq. Ft.	Year Built	Price
3038 Calanda	3bd, 2ba	1356	1949	$569,000
2430 Mar Vista	3bd, 2ba	1079	1949	$575,000
318 Palm	3bd, 2ba	1595	1925	$578,000
3000 Santa Rosa	3bd, 2ba	1785	1958	$599,900
645 Colman	3bd, 2ba	1613	1948	$659,000
2378 Catherine	3bd, 2ba	1752	1928	$675,000
2122 Grand Oaks	3bd, 2ba	1993	1936	$815,000
1745 Midwick	3bd, 3ba	2283	1947	$909,000
2954 Zane Grey	5bd, 6ba	5000	1995	$1,499,999
1914 Midlothian	5bd, 5ba	4424	1935	$2,295,000
1690 E Altadena	4bd, 6ba	5842	1929	$2,850,000

*Information courtesy of ITECH MLS.

*single family attached and detached homes.