Carlsbad Homes & Real Estate Tidbits >> Carlsbad RE/MAX Associates REALTOR Talks

Your Call is VERY Important to Me!

2009-07-09T20:10:08Z

"Your Call is VERY important to me..."

We often get this sort of recording when we try to reach other real estate agents, or others in our business. I heard one today, in fact. And yesterday, too.

Too bad it's the same person.

I would imagine that for those who are serious about their real estate business, calls from other agents, potential buyers and sellers, and so on ARE important, even if we don't say so explicitly. We'll ignore the non-importance of certain telemarketing calls.

I guess I'm not sure why, or even if, it's important to state that "your call is very important to me." Especially if you aren't going to return the darn thing anyway. The agent I have tried to call now twice (and today an email) apparently doesn't really think my call is important.

But I do. And my buyer client does. We are submitting an offer on this out-of-area agent's short sale listing. A very GOOD offer from a qualified buyer with 20% down.

So while being flattered, as the caller, that my call IS important (and of course I assume that it is), I would be more flattered by getting a call back so we can discuss the issues at hand. Wouldn't you agree?

Sadly, it's this type of phone recording that can lead to a bad rap. You make an implied promise but don't deliver. You then have to wonder if that is their MO in other situations, too.

Sorta like those recordings where the cheerful talker says they return calls between "Blah Blah Blah and Blah Blah Blah." Right. How often does that happen? While I might be impressed that you are so busy you can only return calls during this 1 or 2 hour period, or worse you think important calls (say from your angry seller or something to do with your offer) warrant a call back other than during your Blah Blah Blah hours, again I am much less impressed when you don't keep your promise. The problem is you said it and I heard it. And you blew it.

Granted, if you are setting an expectation that you can and will live up to, terrific. I'm all for it. But it seems that many who do this don't meet the expectation, so why bother? Why not just say "ignore what I'm saying cos I ain't gonna do it anyhow."

Perhaps we just expect too much in terms of customer service. Maybe I'm just cranky today. But some folks really need to think about the expectations they are setting.

By the way, your comments ARE very important to me so, well, you know what to do.

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Market Report for June 2009

2009-07-09T11:43:52Z

Like other local markets, the Oceanside real estate market has undergone many shifts in the last several years and continues to evolve, especially with the large number of distress sales. These data do not include any private sales nor manufactured housing; the numbers are derived from the MLS and are believed to be accurate but are not guaranteed.

Media reports speak in general terms, rather than local, so that information may not represent the reality of the local Oceanside real estate market. Having data from a knowledgeable agent about the local market conditions benefits you as the buyer or seller.

In June 2009 there were 190 homes sold in Oceanside's 4 zip codes (92054, 92056, 92057, 92058), as compared to 219 in May (a decrease of 13%). Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
# Sold	190 (down 13%)	123 (down 11%)	67 (down 17%)
Average $	$314,083 (up 18%)	$369,405 (up 21%)	$212,521 (up 9%)
Days on Market	64	60	70
Sale $/List $	97%	99%	94%

The sales volume declined in June to a level consistent with several months ago, and the average price for both detached and attached homes increased, as we have seen in other coastal communities.

In Oceanside there were 265 homes with a contingent status at the end of June, 10% more than at the end of May - 57% of these are detached homes. This represents 37% of all the homes for sale. Thus buyers entering the market are seeing over 1/3 of the inventory already with offers in for approval for short sales and REOs. These contingent homes are included in the overall Active stats below.

At the end of June 2009 there were 720 Oceanside homes for sale (381 detached and 339 attached), about the same as in May. This represents an inventory of 3.1 months for detached homes (up from 1.8 months in May) and 4.9 months for attached homes (up from 3.7 months in May) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. These absorption rates continue to be impressive when compared to many other parts of the country, some of which have over 2 years of inventory. Indeed we are seeing more multiple offers, not only on distress sales but also on regular sales, especially below $400,000.

In June we saw 199 homes come on the market (118 detached, 81 attached), 23% more than in May. During June 216 homes went pending, 2% more than in the previous month.

More details can be provided if needed with regard to current activity as well as within the specific zip codes of Oceanside.

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If I can provide more information about Oceanside and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

Have You Been Rejected by the Market? Another One Bites the Dust

2009-07-08T22:45:30Z

Did you just expire? Uh oh, another one bites the dust!

Did the contract you signed with the local real estate brokerage come to an end without the desired result - new owners? Did you even get an offer? The National Association of REALTORS says that, in general, homes that are priced correctly will receive an offer after approximately 10 showings.

Oh my! You have been rejected by the market. You failed. How does that make you feel?

Dejected?

Angry?

Resentful?

Surprised?

Depressed?

It's sorta like taking your car in for an inspection and getting that red sticker slapped on the windshield that says REJECTED! Ugh, what a feeling.

Or is your attitude more laissez-faire..."well, we are willing to sell if we get our price but otherwise we'll just sit tight."

If that is your approach, this is NOT for you.

But if you are truly interested in selling your home, here's a reality check.

What went wrong? Do you know?

Was your home in showing condition? And ready for the first open house...on-line? With great photos and a virtual tour? Or does the curb appeal bite? And is there a lot of clutter? And deferred maintenance that anyone with half a brain can see?

Did you make it easy for buyers and their agents to see the property with a flexible schedule and a lockbox? Or did they have to jump through a bunch of hoops just to visit your property?

Did your agent provide a written marketing plan of both on-line and off-line activities to maximize your homes exposure? Or was it not clear how your home would be advertised to the potential pool of buyers.

Were there plenty of showings but no one stepped up to the plate with an offer for you to consider? Or did you get one and reject it, hoping to get more?

In all likelihood, it was the price. Did you pick a number out of a hat? Talk to your neighbors? Choose the price based on what you need to get in order to buy that move-up property you covet? Listen to an agent who promised they could get you the price you wanted? Or did you ignore the pricing information on the current market your agent provided and aim for a higher dollar amount to provide wiggle room?

You need to look at the situation from a buyer's perspective, NOT the seller's perspective.

There is a lot on the market in many areas to consider - detached homes, condos, new constructions - that meet the general requirements of many buyers. So you have a lot of competition. Unless a buyer has a rush need to buy, they are looking at all their options, which may include homes that are not necessarily comparable to yours. Buyers want a good deal, and to feel they are not overpaying.

Your overpriced house makes the other homes look like a better value - and that's what it's all about, the value, not what you believe it's worth. Hard news to hear, but the reality. The longer your home sits around, the staler it becomes. And more buyers will wonder what's wrong with it, or why it hasn't sold.

You can't change the fact that your home was rejected by today's market. But you can make the decision to position the property correctly in the selling market going forward.

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

San Marcos Real Estate - San Marcos Market Report for June 2009

2009-07-08T17:46:48Z

The San Marcos real estate market continues to evolve, especially with the large number of distress sales. These data do not include any private sales nor manufactured housing; the numbers are derived from the MLS and are believed to be accurate but are not guaranteed.

San Elijo Hilla - Award-Winning Master Planned Community in San Marcos

Media reports speak in general terms, rather than local, so that information may not represent the reality of our local San Marcos real estate market. Having data from a knowledgeable agent about the local market conditions benefits you as the buyer or seller.

In June 2009 there were 107 homes sold in San Marcos' 2 zip codes (92069 and 92078), a 34% increase over May sales. Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
# Sold	107 (up 34%)	74 (up 21%)	33 (up 74%)
Ave. $	$360,213 (up 5%)	$432,487 (up 7%)	$230,571 (up 21%)
DOM	52	45	69
List $/Sale $	98%	98%	97%

Sale volume jumped dramatically in June over the May numbers. In addition, the average sales price of both detached and attached homes rose significantly. The average time on market remained about the same, with a drop for detached homes.

There were 157 homes (113 detached and 44 attached) homes on the market at the end of June with a Contingent status, i.e., homes with offers awaiting approval from the short sale and REO lenders. These homes are included in the overall Active stats since they are still considered active until the approvals are obtained.

At the end of June 2009 there were 345 San Marcos homes for sale (46% are contingent), an increase of 8% in total inventory from May, 17% less than at the beginning of 2009. This represents an inventory of 4.2 months for attached homes (as compared to 3.5 for May) and only 3.5 months for detached (compared to 2.5 months for May) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. The market, then, remains competitive for buyers and properties are staying on the market for less time, along with the decline in inventory.

In June we saw 127 homes come on the market, more than double the number of homes that came on the market in May. During June 90 homes went pending, an increase of 8% over the number of pendings in May.

This overview of the San Marcos real estate market is based on information provided by the MLS for homes that went under contract in the last couple of months and closed in December. More details can be provided if needed with regard to current activity as well as within the specific zip codes of Carlsbad.

San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for March and April 2009

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If I can provide more information about San Marcos and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

Del Mar Real Estate - Del Mar Market Report for June 2009

2009-07-07T20:11:53Z

Del Mar is a small coastal town in North Diego County, just south of Solana Beach and north of La Jolla. It has a reputation for being one of the most expensive towns in the county. Indeed, two of the most expensive homes for sale in San Diego County are in Del Mar, and the town still holds the record for the most expensive property sold (at about $48,000,000).

Having up to date statistics on the local Del Mar real estate market is important so buyers and sellers can make informed decisions about buying and selling property. Here are the statistics obtained from the MLS for Del Mar for June 2009 (the data are believed accurate but are not guaranteed, and do not include private sales).

15 homes sold in the Del Mar real estate market in June 2009 (11 detached and 4 attached), a decline of 21% from May sales. Here's a summary of the activity:

	Total	Detached	Attached
*# Sold*	15 (down 21%)	11	4
*Average Price*	$1,536,200 (down 35%)	$1,961,727 (down 31%)	$343,500 (down 46%)
*Days on Market*	88	101	51
*Sale* *Price/List Price Ratio*	94%	94%	94%

The number of homes sold decreased from the prior month, with fewer homes selling at significant prices (1 at $9 million) and 3 of the 4 attached homes selling for under $225,000, which contributed to a large decrease in average selling price, especially for the attached homes.

Of the Del Mar home sales in June, 3 of the 4 attached homes were REOs (the low end homes), while all of the detached home sales were regular sales.

There were 6 Del Mar homes on the market at the end of June with a Contingent status (i.e., homes with offers being reviewed by short sale and REO lenders). These are included in the overall Active statistics below.

37 Del Mar homes came on the market in June (19 detached and 18 attached), just 1 more than in May.

There were 205 Del Mar homes (including the 6 with Contingent status) for sale at the end of June 2009, a 9% increase over the inventory from May. At the current rate of sales over a 6-month period, this represents an inventory of 16.5 months for detached homes (a decline from 19.5 months as of last month), and 20.7 months for attached properties, a significant increase over the 16 months from May 2009.

13 homes went pending in June (11 detached and \2 attached), 24% fewer than last month.

As with any statistics, 1 month of numbers do not make a trend, so it is important to see what is happening over a period of time. One should not draw any firm conclusions regarding pricing because of the extremes in the Del Mar market - detached homes selling in excess of $9 million and condos selling for under $200K. The overall absorption of 16 or more months is fairly consistent with other affluent towns where the average home price exceeds $1 million.

Del Mar Real Estate - Del Mar Market Report for April 2009

Del Mar Real Estate - Del Mar Market Report for March 2009 and Quarterly Overview

Oceanfront Property in Coastal North San Diego County - Del Mar

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If I can provide more information about Del Mar and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

The Carlsbad Triathlon is this Sunday July 12 2009

2009-07-07T17:11:00Z

The Carlsbad Triathlon has a reputation of being one of the longest-running triathlons in the world.

Of course the Hawaii Ironman is probably the #1, but, considering the company, being recognized as a pre-eminent athletic event is something to brag about.

The Carlsbad Triathlon consists of a 1K swim (away from the kelp beds), a 25K bike ride (a two-lap course with rolling hills along the ocean - I have ridden this area myself and it is a terrific and scenic ride), and a 5K run, so it is substantially shorter than some of the better known triathlons.

The Carlsbad Triathlon takes place on Sunday, July 12^th, with a Health and Fitness Expo being held on Saturday July 11^th to kick off this world-class event at the Westfield Plaza Mall near the junction of El Camino Real and the 78 Freeway in northeast Carlsbad.

Be aware, if you plan to be out and about on Sunday, that there will be road closures, including portions of the coast road (Route 101/Carlsbad Boulevard) where the running takes place (from just south of Carlsbad Village Drive to La Costa Avenue in Leucadia), some of the same route as the famous Carlsbad Marathon.

The event is sold out and there are reports of some world-class thriathletes participating. It should be a terrific and inspiring sporting event.

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Cardiff Real Estate - Cardiff Market Report for June 2009

2009-07-06T15:08:25Z

As a buyer or seller in the Cardiff real estate market, having information about the current market conditions will enable you to make an informed decision regarding what to do with regard to buying a home in Cardiff, or selling your Cardiff home.

The Cardiff real estate market is very localized, and knowing what is going on in the market with regard to inventory and sales is important for making a buying or selling decision. Finding comparables for determining price for either a listing or a purchase can sometimes be tricky.

READ MORE: Cardiff by the Sea

Here is a summary of the Cardiff real estate market for June 2009 based on information provided by the MLS (private sales are not included). These data are deemed reliable but are not guaranteed.

In June 2009 there were 5 homes sold in Cardiff, only half the number sold in May
3 Cardiff home sales were attached (average price = $743,583, DOM = 113 days; selling at an average of 91% of asking. 1 of these was a short sale)
2 Cardiff home sales were detached (average sales price of $1,117,500, DOM = 91, average sales price of 85% of asking)

Because of the very small number of homes sold, it would be unwise to draw any firm conclusions of the pricing trends or other trends. This is especially true if one were to rely on the average for the two detached homes sold (at $760K and $1.475 million).

As of the end of June there were 5 Cardiff homes with a Contingent status (i.e., short sale and REO homes that had offers being reviewed by the lenders). Until approved these homes are considered active and are included in the Active statistics below.

As of June 2009 there were 62 Cardiff homes for sale (45 detached homes, and 12 attached homes), 9 more homes than in May 2009. This represents an inventory of only 3.8 months for attached homes (down from 5.7 months in May 2009) and 13.1 months for detached homes at the current rate of sales (based on a 6-month period), which is an increase from the 11.4 months in May. We can expect this to rise again given the number of sales dropped and more homes are on the market.

18 Cardiff homes came on the market in May (13 detached, 5 attached), 4 more than in May, with 10 homes going pending during the same period - 5 detached and 5 attached - an increase of 3 over last month.

Data are based on information provided by the MLS for homes that went under contract in the last couple of months. If you would like more details about the Cardiff real estate market with regard to current activity as well as the specific areas such as the Walking District and the Composer District, please let me know.

Cardiff Real Estate April 2009 Market Report

Cardiff Real Estate March 2009 Market Report

Cardiff Real Estate February 2009 Market Report

Cardiff Real Estate January 2009 Market Report

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If I can provide more information about Cardiff, Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Market Report for June 2009

2009-07-06T09:04:26Z

As a buyer or seller in the Encinitas real estate market, it is important to have information about the market conditions in order to make a more informed decision about what to do with regard to buying, or selling, your Encinitas home.

Here is a summary of the Encinitas real estate market for June 2009 based on statistics from the MLS (private sales are not included nor are manufactured and mobile homes). These data are deemed reliable but are not guaranteed.

In June 2009 there were 35 homes sold in Encinitas (a 43% increase in sales over May, following a 25% increase over April). Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL HOMES	Detached	Attached
*Number*	50 (up 43%)	36 (up 57%)	14 (up 17%)
*Days on Market*	49	57	27
*Average Sales Price*	$703,180 (up 2%)	$849,000 (down 1%)	$328,214 (down 13%)
*Average Sale $/List $*	94%	93%	95%

There was a significant bump up in sales volume in June, as we have seen in other communities including Carlsbad, while the days on market remained about the same.

There were 23 homes with a Contingent status at the end of June (i.e., short sale and REO homes having offers that are being considered by the lenders). These homes are still considered Active and are included in the overall active statistics below.

At the end of June 2009 there were 254 Encinitas homes for sale, 5% fewer than in May. This represents an inventory of 4.2 months for attached homes, down from 5.6 months in May, and 8.8 months for detached homes at the current rate of sales, a decrease from 10.5 months in May (based on a 6-month period).

66 Encinitas homes came on the market in June (53 detached and 13 attached), compared to 76 the previous month (a decrease of 13%), with 53 going pending during the same time period (40 detached, 13 attached), a small increase (4%) over May, a trend we have seen over the last 5 months.

These data are based on information provided by the MLS for homes that went under contract in the last couple of months. More details about the Encinitas real estate market can be provided with regard to current activity as well as within specific areas such as Encinitas Ranch, Leucadia and Olivenhain.

Watching the trends over time, as opposed to focusing on the data for one particular month, are more revealing and informative, and will provide a better index of what is happening in the Encinitas real estate market. If I can provide more information, please let me know.

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Market Report for April 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Market Report for March 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Market Report for February 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Market Report for January 2009

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If I can provide more information about Encinitas, Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

Speechless Sunday - Fabulous Home at a Great Price

2009-07-05T11:57:16Z

Fabulous waterview home on a hillside over-looking the Batiquitos Lagoon

Surrounded by acres of open space and a wildlife preserve - can never be developed

Xeriscape landscaping - no irrigation needed

No neighbors means privacy, peace and quiet

Eco-friendly - no heating or AC necessary

Close to hiking paths

Not a short sale or an REO

Vacant and ready to move in

Low crime area - you can leave your door open

Sellers - What You Need to Know About Pricing

2009-07-05T10:15:49Z

If you are a seller in most markets, determining the listing price is probably the most important, and perhaps most difficult, decision you need to make, at least if you are serious about selling. If you aren't then the price doesn't matter. Just pick the price you want and go with.

But savvy folks will pay attention to the things we know about setting a reasonable price, but sometimes ignore.

You don't determine the sales price, nor do agents - the buyers do. Your home is really only worth what a willing and able (and qualified) buyer is willing to pay for it... and what you are willing and able to accept

What you need to buy a new home, or what you spent fixing or improving your home, has no bearing on what your current home will sell for

All the marketing in the world will not sell an over-priced home

Any house will sell if the price is right.

Determining list price is an art, not a science. Some markets, or unique homes, make it even more difficult to derive the right price. But it's easy to tell if it's the wrong price.

The wrong price will cost you - time, aggravation, money (mortgage, utilities, insurance, taxes), plus your home will become a stale listing and every buyer will want to know "how long has it been on the market?" and "why hasn't it sold?" or "what's wrong with it?" And even if you do find someone to pay a high price (fat chance) it probably won't appraise, and since the majority of buyers are financed, you will lose the buyer or have to renegotiate the price.

Price will get folks in the door...or keep them away Only once they are in the door does it become an issue of amenities and condition

Your competition is not only the homes that are just like yours

That said, it's essential to understand what is going on in your particular market with regard to the competition, and the inventory. You need to know what is selling in your price range and how long it's taking. If, for example, homes in your price range are selling at the rate of 10 per month and there are about 100 homes for sale, you have a 10% chance of selling in the next 30 days, on average.

And where, on average, are homes selling with respect to list price - at 95%? 90%?

Pick an agent to help you who will tell you the truth and the facts about your particular market, and not what you want, or hope, to hear.

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I Love my GPS

2009-07-04T10:10:00Z

I happen to think very highly of my GPS. I liked the one in my prior car, a lease, better because it was built in and had more functionality, but my Garmin works pretty well.

This is what I like about it, and how I use it.

First, it tells me where I need to go and I'm normally pretty compliant unless I think it's wrong (and I occasionally tell IT where to go). Despite living here in SoCal for 4 years I am still learning my way around. There are a zillion roads and with the large area I cover there is no way I can get where I need to be efficiently by relying on a map. And with buyers in a broad range of price ranges, and being interested in many different areas, it will take years to know my way well enough to not rely on my GPS. And it's so much easier - I don't have to think too much.

Plus if I make a wrong turn, I don't get yelled at or insulted - it just "recalculates." And I can blame a wrong route on the GPS rather than taking the blame myself and looking stupid.

When heading out on a tour of homes I just pre-program in all the destinations and we're set. For the most part it works well, although every now and then it sends me on a wild goose chase, or in circles. And brand new subdivisions don't work.

My GPS helps me gauge my time so I know approximately when I will arrive at a destination. This is useful if I need to let a client know when I might arrive if I am running late. Not good when it tells me it will take far longer than the time I allowed for - it's step on the gas time.

But being able to check the time also helps with answering buyer questions about commute times from point A to Point B (traffic notwithstanding). I've used it a number of times to help them figure out estimated times from homes they like to work, etc.

I can also track the mileage - a common question is "how far is...?" and the GPS can be useful in providing that information for folks who don't know the area. And they don't have to rely on me if I have only a rough guess or no clue at all.

And if I need to find a local restaurant, tourist attraction or something similar - often in an area I don't know really well when out with buyers - I can do so on my GPS and have it guide us there.

My GPS has also, interestingly, stimulated some funny conversations about GPS experiences, and jokes about driver vs. machine when driving buyers around...a point of commonality and some rapport building, if you will.

I have yet to download the GPS application for my Blackberry - that's next, as I've heard it works well.

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Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for June 2009

2009-07-03T08:57:08Z

The Carlsbad real estate market continues to show some positive trends, and the statistics for June show a number of changes as compared to May 2009. These data do not include any private sales nor manufactured/mobile housing; the numbers are derived from the MLS and are believed to be accurate but are not guaranteed.

Media reports speak in general terms, rather than local, so their information may not represent the reality of our local Carlsbad real estate market. Having data, and knowledge, about the local market conditions benefits you as the buyer or seller.

In June 2009 there were 103 homes sold in Carlsbad's 4 zipcodes, as compared to 114 for May (a decline, for the first time in several months, of 10%). Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL HOMES	Detached	Attached
*Number*	103 (down 10%)	67	36
*Days on Market*	52	51	53
*Average Sales Price*	$562,886 (up 4%)	$662,124 (up 4%)	$365,166 (up 7%)
*Average Sale$ / List$*	96%	96%	97%

The number of sales was down from May, following the trend we have seen in some other communities during the same period, however the average sales prices increased over May 2009 prices. We also saw a decline in the Days on Market from an average of 61 to 52 days.

There were 106 properties in Carlsbad at the end of June with the CONTINGENT status (i.e., homes with offers being reviewed for approval by short sale and REO lenders), an increase of 33% over May. 60% were detached and 40% attached (these are included in the total inventory below since they are considered to be ACTIVE properties until offer acceptance). This could be due to the fact that the status was new in May and was not being used by agents when it should have been. It may also be that there are simply more short sale and REO homes getting offers.

At the end of June 2009 there were 578 Carlsbad homes for sale (390 detached, and 188 attached homes), almost the same number as in May. This represents an inventory of 6.8 months for attached homes (just a slight increase from May) and 6.8 months for detached homes (up from 5.7 months in May) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. These absorption rates continue to be encouraging when compared to many other parts of the country, some of which have over 2 years of inventory.

In June 155 homes came on the market (an increase of 15% over May 2009). And during the same time 139 homes went pending, a decrease of 5% from May.

Thus Carlsbad's inventory has not changed in the last two months, but with more homes coming on the market in June and fewer pendings, you can expect the absorption rate to increase next month.

This overview of the Carlsbad real estate market is based on information provided by the MLS for homes that went under contract in the last couple of months and closed in June. More details can be provided if needed with regard to current activity as well as within the specific zip codes of Carlsbad.

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for April 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for March 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for February 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for January 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for December 2008

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Carlsbad Real Estate - New Homes in Rockledge at La Oaks in the La Costa Area of Carlsbad

2009-07-02T13:59:51Z

Buyers in the Carlsbad real estate market who are seeking new construction, and who would like to take advantage of $8000 first time home buyer tax credit, have a number of options.

The newest opportunity, now available for purchase, is at Rockledge, in the La Costa Oaks subdivision in La Costa.

The La Costa area of Carlsbad, anchored by the famed La Costa Resort and Spa, has offered a number of new home subdivisions in recent years, including La Costa Ridge, La Costa Greens, and La Costa Oaks.

READ MORE:

Carlsbad Village by the Sea

La Costa - A Great Residential Community in South Carlsbad

Rockledgeis on the east side of Rancho Santa Fe Road (as you head toward San Elijo Hills) which puts it within a couple of miles from the Henry's Fresh Food Market, the CVS, a couple of restaurants and several other stores. You are about 15 - 20 minutes to the Carlsbad and Encinitas beaches, as well as golf at La Costa and the Four Seasons, and all the dining and shopping along El Camino Real.

Some reasons to like Rockledge homes:

A top selling point is that children will attend the top-ranked Encinitas Schools - Encinitas Union and San Dieguito Union High School districts (you can check School Digger or Great Schools for more information).

You can buy a brand new home with about 1900 SF to almost 2500 SF for less than $290/SF - practically unheard of in our area even with the price shifts we have seen

Only 43 homes will be built in this village, keeping the community small as compared to some subdivisions like Bressi Ranch.

Residents will have access to a private club, The Oaks Club, with competition-sized swimming pool, wading pool, picnic and BBQ areas, plus an exercise facility, gathering room and gourmet catering kitchen. A second Club will be built with an expected completion date of late 2009.

An incentive of $10K is available if you use on of their preferred lenders, which can be used for flooring, upgrades or closing costs.

You can qualify for the $10,000 new home buyers credit in California (DEADLINE July 2 - JUST ANNOUNCED), and, if you are a first time buyer, the first time home buyers credit of up to $8000

There are 5 Carlsbad homes in Phase One available, priced between $602,490 and $706,990. Homes, all of which are two-story with 2-car garages, range in size from 1913 SF up to 2463 SF, with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths up to 4 bedrooms and 3 baths in 3 floor plans. A number of these homes have canyon and ocean (distant) views due to their elevation on the hill looking west. Styles include Tuscan, Santa Barbara and Spanish.

Landscaping is included for the front yard (which is not typical for the new homes built in the area) but not the rear so factor in that additional cost. Average lot sizes are around 5000 SF.

Property taxes and Mello Roos total about 1.3% which is similar to other new subdivisions in Carlsbad; HOA fees will range from about $242/month to $246/month.

Expected completion time for this phase is late September to early October 2009.

If I can provide more information or arrange a personal tour, please let me know.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: TODAY, July 2, is the last day to fax applications in for the $10,000 tax credit in California - this was just announced on the CA Franchises Tax Board site after this post was written. But you can still get a great home at a great price.

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Hungry? Grab a Bite at The Broken Yolk in La Costa Carlsbad

2009-07-01T15:31:04Z

Breakfast, and especially brunch, is a popular activity it seems, especially on the weekends

The Broken Yolk Café adjacent to the Starbucks in South Carlsbad is a popular gathering place for foodies on the weekend. There is both indoor and outdoor dining, and an extensive breakfast and lunch menu with just about everything you could want (carbs, protein, vegetarian).

Starbucks remains a popular gathering spot, but let's face it, their breakfast and brunch offerings are pretty limited, so if a good sized meal is on your plate for the day, The Broken Yolk way be just the ticket.

Don't be surprised if you have to wait. The place is popular, and despite being a decent size you may find yourself waiting for 10-15 minutes, especially on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The food is decent - not great, IMO (you can read some reviews on Yelp) - but it will fill you up at a price I think many will feel is a respectable value. Our service the day we were there was friendly, prompt and efficient - hopefully that is true in general but I have no information on that.

If you know the Albertson's Shopping Center at the corned of El Camino Real and La Costa Avenue in Carlsbad, you know The Broken Yolk Cafe is not a quaint, charming eatery on a quiet tree-lined street. But then that's not why you're there, right? Check out the street view on Google Maps.

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Do You Like to do it Once or Twice?

2009-07-01T09:41:30Z

Do you prefer to do it once? Or is twice better for you?

Opinions vary on this, and whether it's once or twice depends on a number of factors.

Some folks, myself included, prefer to do a one step listing presentation - meeting the sellers and viewing the property, discussing market conditions and pricing, and everything else in one visit.

Others prefer to visit and inspect the home and meet the sellers on the first go round, then make a second appointment to discuss the market and pricing, the marketing plan, and obtain the listing.

Obviously one can use either method when the circumstances warrant - a home in an area you don't know, a high-end property, or homes that are hard to find comparables for may be better suited to a two step, even though you may be a one step kind of person. The sellers' availability, say someone from out of town, may also influence - there may only be time for one visit. And with some out-of-area sellers perhaps the listing presentation is only via email and phone - you never even meet them F2F.

Or if the seller has made it clear they are having YOU, and only YOU, in to discuss listing because they want you to be the one.

I almost always use a one step, although I suppose it is somewhat modified - after gathering good deal of data from the sellers over the phone and via email, I always drive by the home to take photos (which I use in my pre-listing kit and in my presentation/discussion - more on that in another post) and see the area. My pre-listing kit is, in a sense, an initial visit with the sellers - they get to know me, how I work, have many of their questions answered, and so much more.

I suspect many of you will have varying opinions on the pros and cons of one versus two step listing presentations, as well as suggestions for how best to make use of each method. So let's hear what you have to say.

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Carlsbad Real Estate - New Homes at CopperWood in La Costa Oaks - La Costa Carlsbad

2009-06-30T23:44:26Z

Carlsbad buyers who want new construction, and who also would like to take advantage of the $10,000 new home tax credit in California, has some terrific options. The newest opportunity, now selling, is at CopperWood.

The La Costa area of Carlsbad, anchored by the famed La Costa Resort and Spa, has offered a number of new home opportunities in recent years, including La Costa Ridge, La Costa Greens, and La Costa Oaks.

READ MORE:

Carlsbad Village by the Sea

La Costa - A Great Residential Community in South Carlsbad

CopperWood is located on the west side of Rancho Santa Fe Road adjacent to the existing La Oaks development, just a short distance from the Henry's Fresh Food Market, the CVS, a couple of restaurants and several other stores. You are about 15 - 20 minutes to the Carlsbad and Encinitas beaches.

Some things to know:

You can buy a brand new home over 3000 SF for less than $250/SF - practically unheard of in our area even with the price shifts we have seen

Only 53 homes will be built, keeping the community small

An incentive of $10K is available if you use a preferred lender - this can be used for flooring, upgrades or closing costs.

You can qualify for the $10,000 new home buyers credit in California, and, if you are a first time buyer, the first time home buyers credit of up to $8000

There are two Carlsbad homes in Phase One still available, priced at $815,190 and $796,000 with 8 homes (1 has been reserved) in Phase Two just released. Homes, all two-story but some with downstairs master bedrooms, range in size from 3,189 SF up to 3688 SF, with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths up to 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. Styles include Tuscan, Santa Barbara and Spanish. Prices in the latest release are from $754,490 to $810,990, landscaping not included. Some homes offer dramatic La Costa Canyon and distant ocean views.

If I can provide more information or arrange a personal tour, please let me know.

IMPORTANT UPDATE:

It was just announced TODAY that JULY 2 is the last day to fax applications for the $10,000 new home buyer tax credit in California since they have reached the limit.

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July 4th Entertainment and Fireworks in the Carlsbad Area and North San Diego County

2009-06-30T12:05:36Z

Summer is in full swing and the big holiday is upon us, with lots of entertainment and fireworks in the Carlsbad area.

Trying to plan your weekend? Need suggestions of things to do? Or just curious about the happenings in town? Fireworks are the big entertainment, of course, and you can see them in lots of areas.

Here's a partial list:

La Costa Resort and Spa (South Carlsbad) - while they are for hotel guests you can see them from the La Costa area around the golf course and up in the hills

Four Seasons Aviara Resort - for hotel guests, but you can watch along the Batiquitos Lagoon and from other areas, even La Costa

Oceanside - from the barge in the harbor

San Marcos - fireworks and entertainment in Bradley Park

Legoland - in Carlsbad, about 8:30, choreographed to music

Escondido - fireworks, live concert, food and much more at Grape Day Park and the California Center for the Arts

Vista - fireworks and entertainment at Brengle Terrace Park

Camp Pendelton - beach bash all day with fireworks

Del Mar - at the San Diego County Fair, about 9:30

Seaworld - in the Mission Bay area

La Jolla Cove - fireworks viewable from the Cove Area, La Jolla Shores beach and nearby areas

The Quail Botanical Gardens in Encinitas has a Children's Parade through their fabulous gardens at 10 am.

And of course you can sit in front of the TV and watch terrific fireworks displays from around the country - NY and Boston are some of my favorites, and with the time difference we can enjoy them at 6 PM, then see another round live in our area.

Here's the San Diego 4^th of July fireworks 2009 guide with more information about things to do and fireworks to see.

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Summer is Here in Carlsbad California

2009-06-30T04:32:09Z

Summer is here, finally, bringing with it all that the season has to offer here in Carlsbad.

The weather much of the year is terrific here (compared to other places I have lived) but the summertime is the best. So what makes summer so special in Carlsbad?

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The TGIF Jazz in the Park concert series - free, for 10 consecutive weeks, with concerts in 3 of Carlsbad's best parks. Plus a whole bunch of other summer outdoors concerts in the area - more than you can ever attend - such as the Jazz on the Green at the Four Seasons Resort in Aviara.

Spending time at Carlsbad State Beach, or one of the other terrific area beaches in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Cardiff or Solana Beach.

Surfing - OK, surfing is popular all year round but the summer weather means surfing without a wet suit and warmer water.

Dining al fresco - at the beach, or one of the many outdoor restaurants throughout Carlsbad

Visitors - lots of them, to enjoy the gorgeous weather and beaches. It makes for great people watching.

Carlsbad Triathlon - the 28^th, in fact, at Tamarack State Beach on July 12^th.

Traffic - yep, there's more of it because of more visitors especially along the coast. And on the freeway there are more folks traveling north and south on the weekends, complicated further by the San Diego County Fair and Racing Season at the Del Mar Racetrack.

Leucadia Art Walk - OK, so it's not in Carlsbad, but it's right next door and it's a terrific outdoor event on August 30 from 10 - 5.

Carlsbad's famous Farmer's Market - in the Village on Saturdays and Wednesday. While it runs year-round, summertime is the best for the variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and so much more.

Fireworks - they're coming up fast, this weekend in fact, in a bunch of locations. Local favorites include the La Costa Resort and Spa and the Four Seasons Aviara Resort

My summer photo. OK, it's not special, nor is it new! Folks who know me or who have been following for some time have seen this photo each summer for the last 2 two years. It's a self-portrait, taken just after spending a few hours at, where else? The beach.

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Oceanfront Property in Coastal North San Diego County - Carlsbad

2009-06-29T13:32:55Z

Buyers interested in Carlsbad oceanfront property have a number of options.

But it's important to realize that Carlsbad actually has few true waterfront properties because the coast road/historic Route 101/Carlsbad Boulevard runs close to the coastline and many water view properties are actually east of this road.

The other issue is the state park - Carlsbad State beach - which is west of the coastal road and takes up a substantial bit of coastline from the southern-most border (by Encinitas) to just past Palomar Airport Road.

That said, there are a number of homes right along the coast road which have terrific views, and a few areas - Terramar and in Carlsbad Village - where you can buy true oceanfront property.

As of this writing there are 2 oceanfront properties (detached homes) and 2 properties right along the coast road with terrific views. These homes are priced from $2.499 million to $10.8 million; one is a new construction property that is nearing completion in the $3.8 to $4.2 million range (a significant drop from prior pricing).

Folks interested in attached homes/condos have a few possibilities, but again, several are on the east side of the coast road or along the east side of Ocean (near the Village) but with amazing view. Currently there are 6 such condos, priced from $950K (range price $950K to $1.05 million - a penthouse unit on the coast road with amazing views) to the ult in luxury - a 5800 SF 3 bedroom 4 bath home at the ocean's edge in Carlsbad Village on Ocean for $9.29 million.

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Market Report for May 2009 (with links to earlier reports)

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Things to do in Carlsbad - The Cannon Art Gallery June-August 2009 Invitational Exhibit

2009-06-28T19:46:15Z

Opening night for the latest exhibit, the annual Invitational Show, at the Cannon Art Gallery in Carlsbad was last night.

Four well-known area artists, selected by the gallery director/curator, Karen McGuire display a diverse set of works in various media including assemblages:

Joseph Bennett

David Fobes

Tara Smith

Duke Windsor

These artists were selected from among those who exhibited in the 2009 Juried Biennial Exhibition.

The exhibition will be on display from June 27^th through August 16^th, 2009.

The popular family open studio, which allows families to create works of art related to the current exhibition, will be on Saturday July 25^th in the courtyard outside the Carlsbad Library and the Cannon Gallery from 11 am until 2 pm.

The William D. Cannon Art Gallery is located in South Carlsbad at 1775 Dove Lane adjacent to the Carlsbad City Library.

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Are You REALLY Trying to Sell That Home?

2009-06-28T11:36:41Z

Presumably a homeowner lists their home because they want to sell it. We know there are some folks just testing the market, and others who for some reason don't really want to sell, or they won't accept a price below a certain number which is well above market value. But let's assume, for purposes of this discussion, that they do want to sell.

The issue of making your home available to agents and their buyers is kinda important, as is getting the word out on-line and off-line so folks know about it. If buyers can't see it, or it's hard to see, guess what? It won't sell. So there are lots of ways to make your home easy to sell. But there are also plenty of roadblocks that folks put up, including the agents.

A few recent real life examples:

I have seen several listings that were a bit confusing in terms of the nature of the property - was it a short sale? And REO? What are the showing instructions?

The agents comments in the remarks were...I kid you not...DO NOT CALL AGENT.

Hmm, so I have questions on your listing and I am not supposed to call you? Really?! Will you respond in a timely manner if I email or am I not supposed to do that either? Does your client know this? Read William Johnson's terrific post, "How Often Do You Check Your Email?" on this very issue.

Property can be seen on Saturdays from 12 - 4.

Oooh, that works for my buyer's schedule. Out of 7 days, using 9 - 6 as a typical showing time frame (that's 63 hours of availability for many properties) you have a window of 4 hours? This was not a tenant occupied property either. I guess that's better than "showings only with accepted offer."

Will be available for showings June 30 (but listed June 1)

Is the house so wonderful that folks will wait a month to see it? Or perhaps it's the psychology that making folks wait will make it more desirable? I guess I don't get the point of listing a home that is not ready to be shown fairly soon after listing, if not right away. Am I missing something?

And of course there are the lousy listings, as I call them. The ones with no photos whatsoever, (some buyers still say they won't even bother with these), or one crummy out-of-focus picture of the front of the home, and those listings with the barest of information and no remarks. With the reliance on the Internet that we see with so many buyers, and agents, this makes so sense in terms of doing your job to market the home for your clients. Granted, some of these are listings by agents who have never seen the home and live 100 miles away (especially the short sales and REO's).

I have been showing, or trying to show, a lot of property recently. Perhaps I am just impatient, or annoyed that I can't get my clients in to see the properties they want in a timely manner. But there are times I have to wonder...

Are you really trying to sell this home?

Undressing by the Side of the Road

2009-06-27T18:57:06Z

That got you didn't it? And now you just have the read on...

It's a pretty common sight here in Southern California; folks undressing by the side of the road. Maybe it bothers you, maybe it doesn't. You may not give a hoot...which seems to be the case of many. Are you disappointed there are no pictures?

This is really for visitors and folks moving to the area, since Southern Californias already know this - the folks undressing by the side of the road are, of course, the surfers. Lest you think they are all running around the neighborhoods and major roadways with nothing on, let me reassure you that is not the case.

It seems to be more confined to men than women, who, for obvious reasons can't quite stand along the roadways topless (well they could if they wanted but it might create some problems, and become a legal matter - I'm staying away from that controversy), and perhaps also because there are so many more male surfers than females, in general. At least it appears that way.

The point of all this, of course, is to get out of one's wetsuit after a bit of surfing and into a pair of shorts or other clothes for the drive back home (the reverse is true to some extent as well).

All that's needed is a big towel, and learning the proper technique to change clothes while standing next to or behind your car along the road without exposing yourself to the neighbors or the drivers, unless, of course you choose to or are a bit daring (or careless). It's a frequent sight, along any road where you find surfers parking their cars to head to the beach - in multimillion dollar neighborhoods, along the coast road, wherever.

Get used to it.

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If I can provide more information about Leucadia, Encinitas, Cardiff, Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

A Peak at a Double Peak in San Marcos

2009-06-27T17:43:41Z

San Francisco has it's Twin Peaks; Hollywood created Twin Peaks (the TV serial drama); and San Marcos has Double Peak.

Double Peak Park in San Marcos just opened, with much acclaim, and I took a peak a few days ago.

At 1644 feet (and one of the highest points in San Diego county), the unobstructed 360-degree views from the top of this newly opened park are incredible, even on a hazy day when I was there. Better than the views atop Mt. Soledad in La Jolla which are darned impressive.

You wind your way up Double Peak Road off San Elijo, the main road through the master planned community of San Elijo Hills in San Marcos, with views in all directions. There is a parking lot midway, but take the road to the very top to enjoy the best views, picnic tables and a play ground.

There are hiking trails in this 230 acre-park, most of which is undeveloped, and ample parking plus an artificial rock climbing area and amphitheatre. The day I was there it was virtually deserted, and despite the haze the views were spectacular - to San Bernardino to the northeast, west to the ocean and the Batiquitos Lagoon, south to San Diego. Can't wait to take a hike on a clear day.

ENJOY THE SHOW!!

13 Ways to Promote Your Blog

2009-06-26T20:45:48Z

We all know the promotion is important, although one does not want to come across as salesy or pushy.

The same is true of our blogs. We want folks to know about them and the valuable content they offer, but shoving them down someone's throat is not likely to be accepted kindly.

As I learned yesterday at REBarCampOC (although I sorta knew this), publishing your post is about 30% of the work. (that's a quote from notable RE.net dude, Jim Marks, founder and President of Virtual Results ). The rest comes afterward. That is, promoting your blog so consumers can take advantage of it if they like.

Certainly a big part of getting noticed, and as was said yesterday - if you aren't in Google you don't exist - is the work you do around SEO (search engine optimization). This post is not about that, but do a search on AR for SEO or check out the SEO Channel for a wealth of articles to help you, whether you know anything about SEO or not.

Getting the word out there isn't magic...

So here are a few thoughts on how you can promote you blog. And please feel free to share your ideas - we can also benefit from the collective brain trust here on AR.

1. BUSINESS CARD - Use that blank space on the back to list your blogs

2. EMAIL SIGNATURES - whether you have one or multiple ones, for specialized groups of clients, include links to your blog(s). Make sure these are easily found (and that the links work)

3. EMAIL COMMUNICATION - I list this separately because there may be times, when directly communicating with a particular buyer or seller, that you want to refer them to your blog, or specific articles, because of the information they are seeking.

4. WEBSITE - either include links at appropriate places on pages in your website and/or put a widget on the homepage like I have.

5. BUY URLs for your AR blog and any outside blogs and use those as above

6. POSTCARDS, NEWSLETTERS and OTHER MAILINGS - include your blogs where appropriate and relevant.

And here are some more...

7. CRAIGLIST postings for listings - great to include here, PLUS the link to your single website or blog is you use one (I use Wordpress to create a blog for each listing)

8. SOCIAL MEDIA WEBSITES - they all allow you to include one or more links, so take advantage of this where appropriate

9. MARKETING MATERIALS - including your pre-listing, relocation, seller and buyer packets

10. WORD OF MOUTH - talking about your blog in a conversation with prospects or clients makes sense, once you have some sort of relationship and it can add value to the discussion for them

11. HANDOUTS for open houses

12. ADVERTISING - may not be suitable depending on the ad and the medium but worth keeping in mind.

13. DIRECTORIES - there are a ton of on-line directories for registering your blogs, most are free I believe. Here is the weblogs compendium of directories; here's the Search Engine Journal list of web directories; and here's an offering for your real estate marketing toolkit: 45 blog directories from Rebecca Levinson on ActiveRain. The list goes on an on, with some repetition.

Just a few thoughts to get you started or to expand your promotions. Feel free to share your own ideas so we can all benefit.

UPDATE - and one more I use but forgot - I have several t-shirts with my blogs (1 per shirt) that I wear to the gym, and occasionally the beach. Ya never know. And they are branded shirt with the RE/MAX name on front, somewhat unobstrusively.

RE Bar Camp AGAIN Does Not Disappoint - RE Bar Camp Orange County - Newport Beach, CA

2009-06-26T00:22:01Z

I had the pleasure of meeting up with some great minds in social media and technology today at The Blue Beet in Newport Beach at RE Bar Camp Orange County (#rebcoc for those Twitter folks). This was my second bar camp this year and it did not disappoint.

First, congratulations and thanks to some of the folks I know who were involved (and my apologies for leaving out people who also contributed) - Stacey Harmon, Jim Marks, Linse Planeta, Loren Nason, Eric Stegemann, Gretchen Benes, and Devesh Khare. The venue - a REAL bar, will multiple levels and rooms, practically on the ocean in beautiful Newport Beach. What could be better for a bunch of Californians (oh, and few visitors from further away including Rob Hahn from NJ) than a day at the beach, which, after the June gloom burned off turned out to be spectacular.

And of course it is always fun to run into good friends, and meet news one already known on-line - Stacey Harmon, Ricardo Bueno, Robin Fenchel, Elaine Hanson, Lynda Eisenmann, Vicki Lloyd, Morgan Brown, Sharon Paxson, Dustin Luther, to name just a few (I apologize for forgetting who else I met and talked to), as well as other folks there I just didn't have time to connect with.

It's hard to capture the spirit, enthusiasm, sharing and so much more that happens at these events, but those of you who have gone know well enough how terrific RE Bar Camps are for learning and networking.

Just a few takeaways, in no particular order:

NAR announced that 100% of buyers (or someone in the family) will look on-line at some point for a home (I hadn't heard this and it may not be particularly profound, but something to keep in mind...everyone (almost) is on the Internet

Social media is where you market who you are, and demands that you invest in YOU. It will make YOUR brand

Delicious is a terrific free site for social bookmarking. And why not set up a series of book marks to share with groups of people - first time home buyers, sellers, etc. Make sure the content you bookmark makes sense and adds value. And check out Dwellicious for real estate.

SEO Tips (yeah, you may already know this)

Go after the long tail
Make sure all your pages are indexed (Drew Meyers recommends Yahoo Site Explorer)
The title tag may be the most important - make sure it is not the same on every page of your site
Linking out is GOOD - as Dustin Luther has said, "linkation, linkation, linkation."
Use social networks and add your blog/website/etc. links to your profile where allowed
Keep in mind the anchor text - don't use CLICK HERE unless you want to be indexed for click here.
Once you hit the submit button on a post you have done 1/3 of the work - you need to promote your blog wherever and however you can

Facebook

Ask your fans what THEY would like to se on your page then provide it
Create "friends" lists - friends and family, real estate professionals, other categories you feel are appropriate to better organize your newsfeeds
If you create a business page download FBML application to use to customize

Branding

Your brand is your logo, the look, recognition, how people can contact you and A PROMISE. Make sure you can deliver on your promise or change it. Real estate practitioners are usually weak on this
How do you distinguish yourself?
Social media is not a brand differentiator - who you are IS. Branding is also deciding what NOT to do, like taking a listing that absolutely does not fit with your brand.

All in all a terrific day, great learning, and lots of fun. I couldn't stay for the REAL bar acitvity as I had a walk-through back in my neck of the woods, but you can bet it was a continuation of a great time. If you haven't been and have a chance GO. By all means. Or start one yourself.