Ellie Viray, Realtor's Blog

First Quarter Stats In Pasadena, CA

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:02:32 -0700

July is just around the corner, 6 months have passed in Pasadena Real Estate. Here are single family attached & detached home sold in the first quarter of 2010 reported to I-Tech MLS.

*Month*	*Total Sold*	*Average SF*	*Average Price Per SF*	*Days on Market*	*Original Price AVG*	*List PriceAVG***	*Sale* *PriceAVG***	*SP % LP*
JAN	50	1,803	$360.03	84	$697,324	$672,235	$657,354	97.79
FEB	47	1,814	$356.07	81	$690,839	$663,837	$652,809	98.34
MAR	62	1,837	$366.20	69	$720,984	$702,773	$689,877	98.17

*Month*	*High Price*	*Low Price*	*Median Price*
JAN	$3, 560,000	$175,000	$526,500
FEB	$3,250,000	$128,000	$562,000
MAR	$2,650,000	$135,000	$607,500

In January 2010, 27 of 50 closed sales were at list price or over.
In February 2010, 24 of 47 closed sales were at list price or over.
In March 2010, 26 of 62 closed sales were at list price or over.

The stats show that in Pasadena Real Estate, the sales are arriving very close to asking price. We have seen many listings receiving multiple offers and sold right after the Broker Open House.

Buyers Beware - Homes Are Flying Out The Door (well almost) In My Area!

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 13:34:47 -0700

Yes, it is true. Properties are going into escrow in less than 7 days.

Couple weeks back, I walk into a Broker Open House on 2385 E. Woodlyn in Pasadena, CA. Very attractive Mid-Century home in the NE area. I jumped with excitement; perfect for my client. I tell my client to see the house. I call the office for the status and it was IN ESCROW. By the Open House ended on Sunday, an offer was accepted.

Last week, 484 E. California #43, a stunning looking condo in Madison Heights area of Pasadena, CA came on the market. After the Broker Open House an offer was accepted. The showing started on THUR, 6/17, and by the Open House on June 20, it was GONE INTO ESCROW.

Another great unit in South Pasadena, 1972 Huntington Drive (shows really well) went on the market last week, had a Broker Open House on 6/17 and they have two offers now.

There are REO and short sales, and market has changed dramatically. But buyers have to know that there are "MICRO-MARKET" within LA County. Just because prices have decline does not mean that it is going to be in all cities of LA County. Pasadena and South Pasadena both area very desirable cities, and if a home is priced well and looks pretty & handsome, it will be GONE, GONE, GONE. And there are a lot of junk out there too. Do buyers really want to get on there hands and knees, tackle a fixer these days? When you see enought junk, you are going to start looking for a nicer home that you can pretty much walk into and make a new start.

And, talk about multiple offers. My good friend at Coldwell Banker is seeing multiple offers each time she writes an offer. Right, multiple offes are back with vengeance.

Buyers, make sure you are in touch with your agent, and don't wait around. You could be waiting a long time, a very long time for your Home Sweet Home in this interesting market of year 2010.

1, 2, 3 of Do's and Don't Of Credit

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:06:45 -0700

Well, we hear so much about how important credit is when it comes to securing a mortgage. Good credit is CRITICAL when working towards getting best rates and terms.

Don't Apply For New Credit. Evey tme you have your credit checked, you can lose points from your credit score immediately.
Don't Pay Off Collections or Charge Offs. If you want to pay off old accounts, do it through escrow and make sure the debt is yours. Request letter for deletion from the creditor.
Don't Close Credit Card Accounts. If may appear that your debt ratio has gone up when account is closed. It could also affect in the score and history.
Don't Max Out or Over Charge Credit Card Account. Try to keep credit card balances below 30% of their limit. If you pay down, do it across the board.
Don't Consolidate Your Debt. When you put your debt together on one or two cards, it will appear as you are maxed out on that card. You may get penalized too.
Don't Do Anything That Will Cause A Red Flag By The Scoring System. This includes adding new account, co-sign, name change/address with the credit bureaus.
Do join a Credit Watch Program. You can monitor your status and if something strange shows up, you can take care of it ASAP.
Do Stay Current On Existing Accounts. If you get a one 30 day late notice, it can cost you.
Do Continue To Use Your Credit As Normal. If it appears that you are changing charging patterns, it can also creat a Red Flag.
Do Get Help From Loan Officer. Your loan officer is a great source to get info on credit reporting.

Above information has been provided by Ambassador Capital/Pasadena, CA

First Time Home Buyers - Are You Ready To Buy Now?

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 20:22:38 -0700

Values have declined close to 33% from the 2^nd quarter of 2006 through April 2009. The low interest rates, lower home prices, tax perks and long term advantages of homeownership have first time buyers bouncing off the fence to check out the housing market.

Even though the real estate market wiped out many housing wealth through November 2009, there are advantage to own a home. If enough equity is gained in the home, you could borrow from the home for special needs (college, retirement home, etc.) There is also federal tax advantage which makes the home mortgage debt less costly than other loans.

Mortgage rates are still very favorable at about 4.88% for a 30 -year mortgage. The rates will probably increase but should continue to stay low throughout this year.

Many have bought, as home sales in November accounts ½ of home sales by first time buyers. However, there is a lesson to be learned from the previous housing crisis. Just because everyone is doing it, does not mean you need to buy a home. Buyers must make sure if it is right time for them to buy. Buyers must investigate their job situation first to make any consideration. Economy is getting better, but unemployment is still high on the horizon.

Also, many homeowners got into a mess because they bought way more that what they can afford. To avoid the mistake, first time home buyers should not pay more than 30% of their monthly household take home pay to housing costs (which includes principal, interest, tax, and insurance combined).

Owning a home comes with other added expenses aside from utilities. You are responsible for "everything" that comes with your home. If the A/C does not work, you have to pay for repair, not the "landlord" anymore. You are the landlord. You have to make sure you have rainy-day expenses set aside for many surprises to come (like plumbing, roof leak, etc.)

Getting a low interest rate could be a challenge for first time home buyers. Banks have raised the standard very high to qualify buyers to obtain home loans. Buyer will probably need a FICO score of 720+, full documented income and assets. If buyers cannot meet the standard, they could apply for FHA home loan. With FHA, borrower can put down 3.5% versus higher down payment.

Take time to research for home. First get pre-approved to make sure you know how much you can buy. Next, check the website to search for homes in the area of your interest. Great websites are Zillow.com, Realtor.com, Trulia.com and Redfin.com.

Lastly, first time home buyers should find a Realtor who can be patient and provide the attention needed. You must feel comfortable with the Realtor. The Realtor should be accommodating and show homes that fit your needs, and price range. They should not pressure you in anyway. Ask a lot of questions during the purchase process. I recommend referrals from relatives, friends and co-workers who have bought and had a good relationship with the Realtor.

Great Priced Condo In Covina

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Fri, 14 May 2010 16:03:54 -0700

18725 Arrow Hwy Unit 41, Covina, CA 91722

2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

Offer at $199,800

Best priced townhome-style condo in Covina. Perfect for First Time Buyer and Investor. Bright and airy rooms. Fireplace in the living room. Immaculate, wellmaintained complex with many trees & blooming flowers. Pool, Spa, and Club House. Special Unit - one of the 2 units situated in the back of the complex (very private).

Your 2 parking spaces are steps away from the unit w/storage space. Beautiful serene views from master bedroom balcony. Spacious, enclosed patio (newly painted fence) is perfect for entertaining. There are new light fixtures in both bathrooms, new kitchen sink, and newer garbage disposal installed. FIOS ready (newly installed in March).

Included in sale: Washer/Dryer (220v), Refrigerator (w/ice and water dispenser), stove/range. Recently installed water heater. Direct TV Dish Ready. Unit has generous storage spaces. HOA pays water & trash. Minutes to shopping area, bus line, and commute to Downtown-take Covina MetroLink.

Buyes Bitten By FHA's Rules

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Fri, 07 May 2010 20:13:51 -0700

I am in the middle of listing a condo priced under $200,000. This unit is perfect for a FHA buyer. So, I am learning about the new FHA rules that took place this year.

The minimum down payment increase to 10% down for borrowers with a credit score of 580 or below. The upfront mortgage insurance premium is to be raised to 2.25% from 1.75% (which requires congressional action). It also reduced seller's contribution from 6% to 3%.

For those with not-the-best-credit will be impacted with the 10% down payment, and also the reduced seller concessions which often pays for closing costs like title insurance and lender origination fee.

However, these changes are meant to manage a healthier FHA which accounts for about 40% of national mortgage market. It is going to make a stronger FHA capital reserve, and be able to manage risk better than in the past.

Ellie's Altadena Fast Fact

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 16:05:20 -0800

This is "Altadena Fast Fact" for 2/27/2010.

There are 72 Active Listings on the PFAR MLS (single family attached/detached).

Lowest priced active: $229,990 - 2485 Saint Pierre, 2bed, 1 bath

Highest priced active: $2,998,000 - 2217 Crescent Drive, 5 bed, 7 bath

As of 2/1/2010:

14 Closed Sales
17 Pending Escrow
8 Expired Listing
3 Cancelled Listing

How is Altadena Market?

Ellie Viray, Realtor (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:25:23 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:40:21 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:39:11 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:26:02 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:23:20 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Sat, 09 May 2009 20:26:23 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:23:17 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:05:32 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:49:55 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:37:11 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:42:03 -0700

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:18:12 -0800

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 15:48:59 -0800

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:06:04 -0800

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:03:55 -0800

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:02:27 -0800

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:42:25 -0800

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 (John Aaroe Group, Inc.) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:06:56 -0800

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.