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

Learnings from Bloggers Connect San Francisco 2008 - VIDEOS

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:17:39 -0500

While it was not possible to record all the presentations by the panelists at the most recent Bloggers Connect in San Francisco, here are several videos – about 15 minutes worth – of what folks had to say about the role that blogging plays (and pays) in their business, closing sales from blogging, taking your blogging to the next level, and much more.

I posted an article in real time, Blogging LIVE from Bloggers Connect, while at the meeting on Wednesday July 23, along with some photos. You can read more about what the various panelists (featuring AR members we all know – Laurie Manny, Teresa Boardman, Linda “Carnac” Davis, Mary Pope-Handy – among others) had to say, with some great suggestions for improving your business with blogging. You can also see the videos of the Makeover/Takeover contest announcement.

Here's the video on Creating Content that Hooks Readers

VIDEO – Panel 2 (How 4 Bloggers are Closing Sales)

VIDEO – Panel 3 (Leaving a Digital Footprint)

VIDEO – Panel 5 (Growing Pains: Taking Your Blog to the Next Level)

For more on Bloggers Connect (link is to the schedule and list of panelists):

Mary Pope-Handy was a panelist – she shares her thoughts on this experience in her post Inman’s Bloggers Connect Yesterday – Speaking on Panel about Closing Sales from Blogging.

Tom Plant shares his thoughts on Real Estate Connect in his well-done post, Day One - RE Connect SF.

Jan O’Brien attended the REBarCamp which took place on Tuesday before Bloggers Connect started. Read her post, REBarCamp San Francisco – 5 Social Networks for Real Estate Agents, for some tips on social networking for real estate agents.

If you don’t pick up a few pearls of wisdom to help you in your business and your blogging,

then you must already be an expert.

The Personal Journey to Blogger Connect 2 in San Francisco 2008

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 03:00:47 -0500

The journey to the first Blogger Connect in San Francisco was a remarkable one of less than 10 months, a voyage from complete newbie without much of a clue about blogging to someone who could, without too much shame or embarrassment, call himself a blogger.

It was a time of multiple ActiveRain gatherings and meeting more than 40 members, the creation of multiple friendships around the country, a watchful eye on the dramatic growth (from 6,000 to over 50,000) and many changes in our real estate network, the creation of 3 new blogs and more than 500 posts, and the beginnings of buyer and seller business from blogging.

Finding myself at Blogger Connect 2 in 2008 is quite another journey in itself. Business has continued to grow (my last 4 listings were all from AR as were several buyers and a relocation), my use of technology has blossomed thanks to the many folks here on AR, more and more prospects have emailed and called after finding my articles, and the nature of blogging continues to evolve faster than one can keep up.

A memorable trip to HI fostered more friendships, several blogging classes were taught, thousands became new members, social networking became the rage, and success stories have been shared left and right.

Despite much learning and growth, I feel pangs of missing knowledge, and therein is the excitement and anticipation about what tomorrow might bring – affirmation of current friendships, new friends, new learnings, new things to try, and a new phase of blogging and on-line marketing.

Part of the journey is the physical act of getting here today. From San Diego to San Francisco in a couple of hours, while at the same time dealing with a pending closing and last minute problems, numerous emails and text messages, and continuing to conduct business and solve problems while in the car, on the plane, on the subway and in my hotel. The age of technology continues to foster interactions unlike anything we might have expected, and yet have come to feel are normal and necessary.

With time on my hands to spare, and thanks to my trusty Flip camera, here are a couple of glimpses of the journey to Blogger Connect 2 - on the BART (no narration, just views as we sped along - the sun was bright and the views are not the best but you get the idea) and a walk up the street to my hotel near Union Square.

Look for more scenes from the event in the next day or so...

there is sure to be lots of sharing from the AR folks in San Francisco.

It's An Exciting Day

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:28:20 -0500

Today is an exciting day, for several reasons.

First I have a final walk-through on a property with some first time buyers in just a few hours. This is momentous – we have looked at homes off and on for 18 months. The home is gorgeous and meets my clients’ needs in so many ways. There were some bumps along the way, not to mention a low appraisal after we struggled for days to reach agreement. But we got through that too, with the cooperative efforts of the buyers, sellers, and agents on both sides. Whew! And it’s not a short sale.

Second, we have made more head-way on an REO deal I have been working on with a first time buyer for over 3 months now. VA loan requirements and a tough underwriter, termite issues, an active military buyer who was in the desert training (without any communication access) for 1 month are just some of the complexities. We may actually get loan docs by the end of this week. Will this actually reach closing before this buyer heads off to Iraq? Hope so – he has no place to live except hotels.

Finally, in about 10 hours I hop on a Virgin America flight to San Francisco for the tomorrow. I went to the first one last year, which was amazing and a tremendous learning experience. And memorable…the afternoon of the event we all learned about the bridge tragedy in Minneapolis - who can forget that!? I know my thoughts immediately were of Blogger Connect eventTeresa Boardman who was at the conference, and Bonnie Erickson, who was not.

A return visit to one of my favorite cities for a brief 24 hours for a sure-to-be-memorable event is very exciting. Alas I get in a little late tonight so won’t make it to the opening reception. Tomorrow morning will have to do. And since I head back tomorrow evening due to business I will miss the AR party. Major disappointment.

I wonder:

Who will I meet for the first time, in person? Who will I see of the 60 or so Rainers I have already met before? There will be a ton of AF folks there – will we connect and have some time to talk? Will I recognize my friends? Will they recognize me? Should I wear my hat and shades to be sure?

What new pearls of wisdom will I bring home? The event is short, relatively speaking. The line-up of speakers is outstanding, as it was last year. The power of blogging and social networking is sure to be further revealed.

How many Flip video cameras and digital cameras will there be?

Will we reach the 100,000 blogger milestone today on AR? Tomorrow? Check out Bob’s post to learn more how to make this happen.

Who will be Uttering? And Twittering?

Time is running out. Too much to do. Gotta go.

Carlsbad Businesses - Seniors Services to Know About

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 23:28:39 -0500

Carlsbad had a reputation as a retirement community, and as such there are a number of retirement communities, and a range of services to meet the needs of the seniors population.

The Carlsbad Seniors Center on the outskirts of Carlsbad Village provides a wide range of services to meet the needs of area seniors.

Read: The Carlsbad Seniors Center: The Center of Activity in Carlsbad Village

There are some other area seniors’ services companies to know about even though they aren’t in Carlsbad proper.

RELIANT SENIOR CARE is a highly respected and growing home-care services company founded by President Sherry Courtney-Lawrence (they recently moved to the current location in Oceanside), who I know personally. The company provides a broad range of in-home caregiver services (all caregivers are employees, carefully selected to provide the best possible service) up to 24-hours per day, 7 days per week. Perhaps someone needs respite care after a hospital stay, or while not ready for assisted living needs additional support to remain in the home. For more information you can reach them at (760) 759-0850

Perhaps this quote from their website says it best:

“At Reliant Senior Care we don't forget the personal touches that are so important: a steady hand, a bright smile, and the willingness to go to extra lengths to reassure you and your loved one that you are getting the highest quality of care. These are Reliant Senior Care's hallmarks for elder care service.”

CALIFORNIA MOBILITY, a business actually located in neighboring San Marcos, provides in-home or in-facility elevators, wheelchair and chair lifts, and related enhancements to assist those with mobility needs either in their home or in business facilities.

Owner Johanna Burhans, who I know personally, is a gem, and will go out of her way to help you find the right solution for your home or business…and will oversee the installation of whatever product you purchase for your home or business. This family operation has a fine reputation in the area and has been servicing the mobility needs of greater San Diego area, including Carlsbad, for years.

Contact Johanna at (760) 471-4545 for more information about how California Mobility can address your particular mobility needs.

Are You Qualified to be Your Clients' Therapist?

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:25:36 -0500

Home buying can be a traumatic, anxiety-provoking experience these days, especially for first time home buyers in tough markets, and with the number of short sales/ foreclosures and bank-owned properties that available, since for some buyers this is all they can afford.

Coping with the vagaries of the home purchase process is often a major task for buyers, sellers, AND their agents. Experience helps, but does not eliminate the possibilities of trying times. As they say, if something can go wrong it will...Murphy’s Law.

We are often in a position of needing to hand-hold, comfort, encourage, empathize, sympathize, calm, and much more. Some folks in our business are adept at doing so and willing to, others are not so clued in. We really don’t much of a choice, since issues come up and if we are truly representing our clients, we need to be involved, take action, get answers and decisions, and assist our clients through the process. That may include providing a bit of therapy.

Are you really qualified to be a therapist for your clients?

Can you truly assist them through the trying times, listen to their concerns and feelings, and enable them to move along as opposed to becoming stagnated at the first sign of trouble?

Can you be honest with them and tell them the truth even when it hurts? Or do you find that this makes you uncomfortable?

You avoid it, don’t want to do it, or ignore it completely. Do your clients reach out and find you aren’t there to help, physically or emotionally? Do you resent the role you must play at times? Do you tell clients what you think they want to hear, or skirt about the issues to avoid conflict?

Are you able to be diplomatic and tactful, or is that foreign to your style?

Consider the buying transaction for a moment. It is a time of big decisions, high emotions, anxiety, and a host of other stressors. Lots of money is a stake, people disagree, problems arise unexpectedly, folks get told no when they want to hear yes, and so on. No wonder so many buyers feel like they need therapy. Add in the craziness of short sales, foreclosures or REOs with the lack of decision, progress, and any semblance of a “normal” transaction and you are sure to find buyers who will feel that drinking and drugs are a good alternative.

Here’s where you step in, provided you are well suited to the task. Not everyone is, despite what they might think.

A good therapist is able to listen closely to the client, no matter what they say or how they say it. And to hear not only what is being said but also what is not.

A good therapist provides a trusting atmosphere where the client is willing to acknowledge their deepest feelings and concerns without fear of retribution. And to reach out for support, guidance, encouragement, advice, suggestions, ways to improve, and to feel that they are respected as a human being no matter what.

A good therapist keeps their own agenda at bay, although the goal is to help the client overcome their fears, calm their anxieties, change their behavior, etc.

The therapist knows it’s all about them, and offers possible solutions to problems.

Are these not potentially similar situations to what we might encounter with our buyers in difficult times?

Admittedly there are some buyers (and sellers, and agents) who really do need true therapy. Better they should get it from someone else.

That being said, here are some thoughts on how to best help our client’s through these stressful times:

Remember, it’s all about them. They are thinking “what’s in it for me” so forget your personal agenda. Not easy to do. Many agents don’t do this. That’s not to say clients should be able to do whatever they want. Part of the therapist’s job is to let folks know when what they are doing is a problem and why, as is treating bad behavior. This can be done tactfully, however.
Listen, listen, listen. So easy to say, not so simple to do. Take the time to listen before you jump in with your thoughts and recommendations. And perhaps just listening to how they are feeling is all you need to do. We all need a shoulder sometimes.
Anticipate potential problems, concerns, questions and address them head on. Don’t mince words or beat about the bush, but be diplomatic and tactful about how you respond. You can do this while being honest and telling them the truth, not what they want to hear.
Be available when your clients need you or might need you. Having a client in crisis, for whatever reason, who can’t reach you may exacerbate the problem, and how your client is feeling about the situation, and you. Of course you can’t be available to one client 24/ 7, nor should you, but not returning a phone call for 24 hours is probably not going to help. No one wants to feel like they have been abandoned, especially when they have something on their mind. And isn’t that part of your job as their agent?
Buyers are human - they struggle daily with what they are dealing with...a home purchase, and they put up all the defense mechanisms we all experience when times are tough - denial, anger, and sorrow. Be prepared for these, and recognize them for what they are, a way to protect how they are feeling and the fear adn anxiety they are coping with.

I’m sure that’s not all that might be important, but there’s some food for thought.

This is not to say that we can, or should, help all clients. Some have issues that we cannot solve, or situations that can jeopardize us legally or in terms of our reputation. Knowing when to let go is also something a good therapist may have to do from time to time.

Come sit on my couch...let's talk.

Carlsbad Things to Do - Visit the Front Porch Gallery in Carlsbad Village

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:35:25 -0500

Carlsbad has a number of galleries for the art enthusiast to enjoy.

The Cannon Art Gallery is a city-sponsored gallery adjacent to the Carlsbad Library, with regular exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year. The gallery is funded by The Friends of the Arts, with monies raised in large part from the Carlsbad TGIF Jazz in the Parks series.

A popular gallery right in the heart of Carlsbad Village is the Front Porch Gallery, at the intersection of Grand and the Coast Highway just 1 block from the beach.

Front Porch is a collaboration is not-for-profit communities and services in California (13 retirement communities, 33 affordable housing communities, 5 foundations and 9 skilled nursing care centers).

The Front Porch Gallery was created in 2002 (with permanent space dedicated in 2004) to enable residents to share their art with the local community and to encourage community participation in its programs and mission. The Gallery travels to all 13 retirement communities in California in addition to the main gallery space here in Carlsbad at the Carlsbad by the Sea Retirement Community.

Artists from the local community are invited to show their works for sale (photographs, jewelry, glass creations) in the gallery in addition to participation in the various exhibitions that take place. The current show, Captivating California, is an enticing exhibit of plein air paintings (“in the plain air” not in the studio) from local artists capturing the look, feel, and emotion of Southern California.

The show is a wonderful demonstration of the local talent in the Carlsbad area and the beauty of our Southern California landscape.

Enjoy the show, which runs from July 19 through September 7, 2008. (760) 795-6120 for more information. 2903 Carlsbad Boulevard, Carlsbad.

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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.

Carlsbad Real Estate - Affordable New homes in Carlsbad at Dolcetto

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 12:27:54 -0500

The Carlsbad real estate market continues to offer new construction homes in several subdivisions, although these numbers are dwindling as several thousand homes have been built, and sold, in the last several years.

Read: Carlsbad Village by the Sea

La Costa Greens has two villages that still have newly built and to-be-built homes available (Viridian and Trieste), and some new homes still remain at La Costa Ridge at Messina. La Costa Ridge also offers some of the most affordable new homes in Carlsbad at Dolcetto, on the east side of this hilltop planned community.

Read: La Costa Ridge – Master Planned Community at La Costa, Carlsbad, CA

Dolcetto is one of 4 neighborhoods in the gated community of La Costa Ridge and the least expensive. New homes range in price from the mid $700s. These KB Homes vary in size from around 2,545 SF up to 4,260 SF. There are 4 floor plans to choose from (one a single story – one home remains of the single stories but it is on a huge lot…one of the largest in La Costa Ridge), with 3 to 5 bedrooms (depending on options) and 3.5 to 5.5 baths.

Buyers – be aware that these prices do not include landscaping, as is also true for other new homes that have been built in the area (residents have 6 months for the HOA to approve their landscaping plans and up to 1 year for the landscaping to be installed).

Currently there are 7 Carlsbad homes at Dolcetto for buyers to select from, with completion dates ranging from the end of September 2008 to around January 2009. These homes range in price from $744,990 to about $836,615. Buyers will have the opportunity to select options and upgrades on the homes that have not been built yet. These homes offer different views and lot sizes from around 6700 SF to over 16,000 SF. Many of the Dolcetto homes have views of the San Marcos hills just a short distance away, and the evening lights from the residential community of San Elijo Hills in San Marcos.

Children in La Costa Ridge attend the San Marcos schools. Residents pay HOA fees of approximately $263/month, and the total tax rate (property taxes plus Mello Roos) are about 1.3% of the total purchase price.

The pricing on these Carlsbad homes represent some of the best values in new construction housing currently in the La Costa area of Carlsbad. Why not take a look? Give me a call at (760) 840-1360 for more information and to schedule a time to take a tour.

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Carlsbad TGIF Jazz in the Parks - Friday July 18, 2008

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 10:05:15 -0500

Carlsbad has a fabulous 10-concert jazz series on Fridays during the summer, free to all.

These concerts are the primary fund raiser for The Carlsbad Friends of the Arts that oversees the arts programs for the community, including the terrific Cannon Art Gallery programs, art programs for the schools, and the jazz series itself.

Concerts are held on consecutive Fridays in one of Carlsbad’s beautiful parks - 3 of them (Stagecoach, Poinsettia, and Calavera Hills). Read more about the series here.

Many residents are fortunate to have these concerts practically in their backyards to enjoy and can walk to and from.

We went to the most recent event with some friends and had a terrific time. Several thousand folks were there, dinner was great, and the band was tremendous – Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca. Lemvo’s Afro-Cuban music always gets folks dancing and it was a lively evening once things got rolling a little bit after 6 PM.

The mobile Espresso Bar was there, doing a brisk business with lattes, espresso, cappuccino, and other coffee drinks, and the Friends of the Arts had a booth where they were selling t-shirts, hats and other items to help in their fund raising. Ticket sales for the raffle prizes were brisk (the source of the fund raising since the concerts themselves are free) with several colorful characters roaming around among the audience, and there were some terrific prizes given out – alas, I won nothing, but it’s good to know all the money helps the Friends of the Arts with their community programs. All in all a terrific evening of great music in a wonderful outdoor venue.

We’re looking forward to the next concert we plan to attend on August 15th with Luna Llena (Cuban Salsa), one of our favorite area bands who we have seen at Le Papagayo in Leucadia where they appear on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month on Cuban night.

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Carlsbad Real Estate - New Construction Homes at Messina in La Costa Ridge in Carlsbad

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:20:17 -0500

There’s a sale going on right now…a good one…so if you are a Carlsbad home buyer seeking a brand new home,

listen up.

La Costa Ridge, in the La Costa area of Carlsbad, is a gated planned community perched on the highest point in Carlsbad with wonderful views of the back country and north to the Camp Pendleton mountains, area hills, the La Costa area, the Batiquitos Lagoon, and for some the distant ocean.

The homes at La Costa Ridge are selling well and many of them are already occupied, while construction is still underway in the newer phases of the neighborhood.

Read:

Carlsbad Village by the Sea

La Costa – A Great Neighborhood in Carlsbad, CA

La Costa Ridge – Master Planned Community at La Costa in Carlsbad

La costa Ridge is located at the top of the La Costa hills just 15 minutes from the Carlsbad beaches. Shopping adn dining are plentiful just 10-15 minutes away. You can enjoy golf at the famed La Costa Resort and Spa, about 2 miles away, and at the Four Seasons Aviara Resort.

The beautiful homes at Messina, the higher end homes in La Costa Ridge, are now on sale, so to speak. They have dramatically reduced the prices on these wonderful homes and you may want to consider them. Let me know and we can take a look.

These Carlsbad homes range in size from 4,374 SF to around 4,873 SF, with 4 to 5 bedrooms (plus optional office) and 4.5 to 5.5 baths. There are 3 floor plans, with some options available. There are currently 8 homes to choose from with varying locations and views in the community. Prices range from $1,166,000 to about $1.3 million (prices per SF range from around $239/SF to about $297/SF). Prices do not include landscaping. Homes come with either 3 or 4 garages. The architectural styles include Santa Barbara, Mediterranean, Tuscan, Monterey Ranch and Spanish, and all properties have courtyards to enjoy outdoor dining and entertaining.

Lot sizes are generous, from a little under 9800 SF to approximately 12,783 SF. Residents will pay HOA fees of around $263/month, with property taxes and Mello Roos fees totaling approximately 1.2% to 1.3% of the purchase price. Children will attend the San Marcos Unified Schools (elementary school children will go to La Costa Meadows, within walking distance just outside the front gate. There will be a total of 55 homes in Messina once completed.

This could be YOUR new home opportunity in the beautiful community of La Costa Ridge in 2008!

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Carlsbad Buyers and Sellers - Want to Pimp Your Garage?

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:16:22 -0500

Carlsbad buyers often are interested in how large a garage is (3-car garages are a common desire) at the homes they are considering. And some will not buy certain homes because the garages are not elaborate enough. Or large enough.

You may not be able to add a garage but you can certainly pimp your garage if you want.

And sellers take note – you may want to upgrade YOUR garage to make it more appealing for folks whose desire for a fancy garage is high on the list, especially if your garage is not in particularly good condition.

So you want to pimp YOUR garage? There are lots of options.

Should you pimp your garage? Well, that depends on your garage and its condition.

There probably aren’t too many folks who don’t care about having a garage, and most of us I suspect are a bit more than embarrassed by the state of our garages. They serve more as storage facilities than anything else, which is fine. But the art of pimping your garage is become BIG business, and there’s some impressive stuff out there. For a former Bostonian used to mini garages (if we had them at all – after all, deeded parking spots in Boston now sell in excess of $50,000 and that’s an outdoor spot), the nature of some of the garages I have found here is pretty remarkable. Some of the new construction here in Carlsbad is clearly catering to folks who love their garages.

One popular aspect of local garages is epoxy floors. Never saw them before coming to California. And some of these floors are beautiful to behold. And a few garages I have seen are nicer than some people’s homes, and cleaner. You could eat off the floors of some of these.

Maybe all you need is a new, and beautiful, garage door. After all, who wants anyone to really know it’s a garage when seen from the street. Check our Clopay Doors.

Want to epoxy your floor (there are different patterns and colors)? Well, you can probably DIY with supplies from Home Depot but I would call Perfect Garage for a professional job and the widest range of options at 858-485-8500. They’ll do free on-site estimates and consults. As they say “your garage isn’t just a garage anymore.”

Garage Tek offers extensive garage organizational systems, not unlike California Closets. Need an activity rack system? Storage bins and brackets? They have them/ You can reach them at 888-701-6870.

Garage Envy is another company that will help pimp YOUR garage and make it the envy of your neighbors with terrific flooring, modular wallscapes, heavy-duty cabinetry and ceiling storage and accessories (866-378-3170).

Of course you can also install security systems, separate heating and AC controls, wetbars and refrigerators, and whatever other creature comforts you might enjoy. I haven’t seen one yet but you can have an auto elevator installed in your garage so you can double park your cars, so to speak. I saw a garage in a very expensive home years ago that had a rotating platform so the owner could drive in, then the car could be reversed and he could drive out without have to back out. Now that’s an extreme. Or is it?

Any interesting garages that you have seen recently? How does your compare. Can you even park a car in it?

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Leucadia Real Estate - Ocean Front Homes at Sea Bluff

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:32:11 -0500

Encinitas area buyers (including those in Carlsbad) who are exploring the Leucadia real estate market

will find a lot to like here.

This funky community along the coast highway (Route 101) has a reputation for being eclectic, not mainstream, and a terrific place for summer vacations, surfing, and beach life in general. It is not a place you will want to live if having boutiques and high-end eateries in your neighborhood is important.

Leucadia is very much what you would expect for a beach town with a strong surfing history in Southern California. Where trailer parks, high-density rental apartments and vacation units, bungalows and cottages, and nurseries co-exist with million dollar ocean view and frontage homes as well as new construction. Folks like Leucadia the way it is, and there is resistance to change, and encroaching gentrification that seems to inevitably occur along the coastal communities.

Want to know more about Leucadia and what it’s like to live here?

Read: Leucadia - Surfers' Beach Community

Despite the low-key, laid-back atmosphere, the Leucadia real estate market is not inexpensive. It’s a relatively small community, and supply and demand, and the Encinitas schools, keep the prices high, and of course proximity to the ocean, or being right on the bluff along Neptune Avenue, create some of the most expensive homes in all of Encinitas.

Leucadia buyers seeking a town home on or near the ocean may be intrigued with the gated community of Sea Bluff at the very north end of Leucadia. With a private beach, glorious views from many of the homes, the potential for living at the edge of the continent, and a reputation as a good rental community, Sea Bluff offers a lot for home owners.

Amenities include the beautiful private beach, 5 tennis courts, 2 pools and spa, tot lot, and gated security (with guard). Not all homes are at the water’s edge but even some of the interior units have some glimpses of the ocean and lagoon. As a PUD (planned unit development), residents own the land rather than it being common space as in a condo community. In contrast to many ocean-side complexes, Sea Bluff is low density, with a total of only 255 homes on around 50 acres. Residents pay HOA fees of about $475/month. Built in the mid-1970s, the Sea Bluff homes are split-level town houses, with 2 or 3 bedrooms, and 2 baths, with about 1400 SF up to over 1900 SF.

Currently there are 9 Leucadia homes for sale at Sea Bluff, 5 of which are interior and 4 are waterfront. Homes range in price from about $800K to $900K for the homes located away from the ocean, while the premier ocean-front homes range from $2.2 million to $3.2 million. The views from these homes are fabulous from their bluff-top location.

Buyers interested in investment opportunities, or owning a Leucadia home by the ocean as a vacation property, will be pleased with the strong rental history and income potential of this community. In the winter weekly rates range from approximately $1275 to $2500, with monthly rentals up to $5500. Summer rates are considerably higher, as expected - $2100 to $4000 per week, with some monthly summer rentals as much as $16,000 to waterfront town homes.

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If I can provide more information about Leucadia/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.

6547 Calle Valperizo, Carlsbad (La Costa), California 92009

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:56:13 -0500

Links

6547 Calle Valperizo

Photo Gallery

Greenbelt behind home	Fireplaced living room	Formal dining room
ONe of 2 swimming pools	A beautiful community	Your private patio along the greenbelt
Spacious eat-in kitchen

Description

Your opportunity to own a spacious town home in desirable La Costa Meadowridge in the hills of South Carlsbad is here.

Relaxation, serenity and recreation are the key things that will come to mind as you drive through this charming community of winding roads and cul-de-sacs amidst mature trees, lush vegetation and abundant open space and greenbelts.

Available for the first time since it was constructed, this town home offers plenty of living and entertaining space, a private patio where you can relax and enjoy the greenbelt views, and an attached 2-car garage. The home is well-maintained but will benefit from your creative eye to make it your own personal space to suit your particular lifestyle. A vaulted ceiling and fireplace with wood mantel create an inviting place to sit and unwind from your busy day and enjoy a fire on chilly evenings. While there is room to eat in your table-space kitchen, you may prefer to dine in the dining room, or just relax in front of the TV in your family room.

The community is a wonderful place for taking walks to enjoy the vegetation. And you are just moments away from two swimming pools which also include spas and BBQ areas. And a game of tennis is just a brief walk from your home.

This home is located a short distance from shopping, dining, golf and the beautiful Carlsbad beaches. This is a terrific opportunity in a wonderful Carlsbad community.

Be sure to stop by www.6547CalleValperizo.com for two virtual tours and a video of the community.

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking:	2
Year Built:	1983
Subdivision:	La Costa Meadowridge
Located on Floor #:	1
Floors in Bldg:	1
School District:	San Marcos
Square Footage:	1505
Agent Name:	JEFF DOWLER
Broker:	RE/MAX ASSOCIATES
MLS #:	080050318

Location

6547 Calle Valperizo Carlsbad CA 92009

vFlyerId: 1619340

A Video Tour of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California - A Charming Seaside Town

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 23:53:54 -0500

Here’s a brief tour in my car of Cardiff, California, a wonderful seaside town just south of Encinitas.

Cardiff, more formally known as Cardiff-by-the-Sea, is a quaint small town with a history of surfing and all that entails. The Cardiff real estate market is a challenge due to pricing and somewhat limited inventory, but there is a broad mix of housing, from bungalows and cottages to ocean view contemporary homes. Be prepared for hills and small lots.

Cardiff is technically part of Encinitas and its town goverment and other operations. But Cardiff has its own zip code (92007) which sometimes confuses people.

The town itself is fairly small, with some restaurants, clothing stores, surf shops, one of the best small markets around, and a range of services, but don’t expect an upscale community with high-end boutiques and fancy eateries…and the residents and visitors love it that way.

The beaches are fabulous, surfing is terrific, views are glorious, and the somewhat crowded and close-knit community offers a lifestyle that appeals to many, but is not right for others.

Enjoy the short video tour of this charming seaside town.

Read:

Cardiff-by-the-Sea – The Quintessential Beach Town

Like to Walk? Live in the Walking District

Want to Live in a Musical Community – Try the Composer District

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If I can provide more information about Cardiff, 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.

Critters in My Carlsbad Backyard

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:06:32 -0500

My Carlsbad yard is being taken over by critters.

Guess that is part of the fun of homeownership where you have a bit of land to call your own. Some critters are simply fun to watch as they go about their lives in my yard.

Others are clearly bent on destroying my yard, some of which I can see but others that are hidden but, nonetheless, are there chewing away at things that try to grow in my yard.

Some critters don't seem to belong but they are there anyhow. I clearly don't have a choice in the matter.

I like the birds, even the ducks that land in my spa before heading off to enjoy the birdseed or the birdbath. I don't like the tree rats - fortunately we hardly even see them but we know they are there.

The rabbits can be entertaining, especially at rabbit-making time, which is all the time judging by the mini-rabbits that appear. We even have a 3-legged rabbit. Sometimes they show up right outside the patio doors which provides great entertainment for the cats.

Some critters are noisy, too. The mockingbirds sing all night long sometimes...the darn things never sleep. And the hawks and the crows are particularly noisy. And they can be fiercely protective of their territories - the hummingbirds are the worst. Something about being the smallest birds makes them the most aggressive.

We haven't seen the coyotes for some time but hear them at night on the golf course.

Here are some of the critters in the backyard. What critters do you have?

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Leucadia Real Estate - Updates on the Leucadia Real Estate Market

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 22:52:40 -0500

If you know anything about Encinitas, or live in the area (right next door to Carlsbad), you are likely acquainted with LEUCADIA, the cool, funky part of Encinitas as the north end.

The community exudes surfer-beach-eclectic funkiness, which is what appeals to the folks who live and visit there. From the local donut shop to a collection of very cool but casual restaurants (Le Papagayo, Auggie's House of Crab), from the terrific beaches to the neighborhood bars, surf shops and a host of retailers, Leucadia has what people expect to find in a casual seaside community that has yet to be hit by the gentrification bug.

The bumper stickers "Keep Leucadia Funky" say it all.

If you are not acquainted with Leucadia or would like a refresher, read Leucadia - Surfers' Beach Community.

I like visiting this great site for lots of cool stuff about Leucadia – you will like it to, I’m betting.

Be aware, however, that change IS occurring, and not everyone is happy about it. We won;t get into the new area code supposedly coming our way.

There are some new small housing developments such as Nantucket (read "pricey"), the sidewalks have been improved, and more change is on the way along the coast road.

With the pricing changes that have occurred in the last year, it makes sense to revisit the housing options and pricing. Homes range from mobile/manufactured to condos (loft style, town homes) to live/work style units (some brand new units are priced at $950,000 right along the coast road), twin homes and detached properties.

There are ample apartments and vacation rentals chockablock with more expensive ocean view homes and some new construction, and the ultimate properties for some folks – a bluff top home with direct ocean frontage.

Attached homes in Leucadia range from $227,900 (this for a studio unit) to $3.195,000 for a ocean bluff unit. There are a handful of units in the $500s, but most attached units are in the $800s and up particularly as you get close to the water

Detached homes vary quite a bit in price as well. There is new construction (ranging from the low $1 millions to the low $3 millions (these with water views but not frontage), and resale homes from $775,000 (only a handful of homes under $900K and these are east of the freeway) to $7.3 million

Waterfront homes along the bluff top on Neptune start at $2.1 million and rise to $7.3 (current pricing as of July 2007). Homes on the opposite site of the street with lesser views are understandably less expensive

Mobile and manufactured homes can also be found at The Sands, just a short hop to the beaches. These homes range in price from $58,000 to $150,000 with a land lease – monthly rent of the lot for each home is about $900. The park owner is seeking approval to be able to offer homeowners their lots for sale. Approval is pending.

Here a SLIDE SHOW of life in Leucadia - view it, enjoy it and dream.

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Carlsbad Real Estate - Buying a Golf Course Frontage Home in Carlsbad

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:46:23 -0500

Carlsbad has a reputation as a golfing community, and many buyers considering the Carlsbad real estate market for second/vacation homes, primary homes or for retirement express an interest in living on or very near one of the Carlsbad golf courses. While views or proximity to these venues is reasonably available, finding a direct frontage home is more difficult, and more expensive, depending on what you want in a new home.

There are 4 golf courses in Carlsbad that golfers can consider:

the La Costa Resort and Spa in La Costa (southeast Carlsbad),

The Four Seasons Aviara Resort (the Aivara residential area in South Carlsbad closer to the beaches)

the new municipal golf course that opened in the summer of 2007, The Crossings at Carlsbad

Rancho Carlsbad, a public course adjacent to the Rancho Carlsbad Seniors' Community.

GOLF COURSE FRONTAGE HOMES

THE CROSSINGS: Because of where The Crossings is located there are no frontage homes on this course. There are some properties that have distant views of this particular golf course.

RANCHO CARLSBAD - Rancho Carlsbad is adjacent to the residential community of Rancho Carlsbad, so while some homes are very near the actual course, none of them are direct frontage. Keep in mind that homes at Rancho Carlsbad are age-restricted (55+ plus); prices range from $235,000 to $499,000 for these manufactured homes which are 2 or 3 bedroom with 2 baths, and range in size from about 1340 SF to 2062 SF, all single level.

LA COSTA - Carlsbad buyers wanting to be on the course at La Costa have some options. Currently there are 2 frontage detached homes available with terrific views, priced at $997,000 and $2.3 million. Direct frontage detached homes are fairly uncommon and are usually at least $1 million and often need updating. There are 12 attached homes directly on the course (with varying views) ranging in price from $250,000 (1 bedroom condo) to a 3700 SF townhome range priced from $1.2 - $1.65 million.

AVIARA - primarily a resort residential area, Aviara currently has 7 golf course frontage detached homes for sale ranging in price from $1 million to 2.2 million (homes vary in size from around 3300 SF up to 4600 SF). There are only 2 attached homs currently on the market priced at $599,000 and $650,000 (1481 and 1663 SF respectively).

For more detailed information on the Carlsbad real estate market for golf course homes, please feel free to call or email (see below).

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Not Everyone Wants a Mortgage

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 22:06:51 -0500

There is always room for a new perspective, whether you are considering the value of home ownership, or obtaining a mortgage.

When working with buyers from other countries, it is important to understand their possibly unique perspective on what owning a home means to them, and how they perceive having a mortgage debt.

I was also reminded of differing perspectives on home ownerships and how it happens a week ago when working with a delegation of investors from China.

I just started working with a charming couple, one of whom is not from the US (I am not sharing what country for confidentiality purposes), and during our initial buyer counseling it became clear that her perspective on what owning a home means and how it is accomplished in her country is remarkably different than here in the consumer-oriented USA.

Furthermore, the attitude about credit and carrying debt (whether it be credit cards or other types of loans) is very different.

It just isn't something they do as a normal part of life.

For the typical American, the thought of not buying on credit, or having a mortgage, is almost unheard of (yes, I'm exaggerating a bit but consider our credit issues and how many folks have multiple credit cards). Yet for this buyer from a Pacific Rim country the thought of having a loan goes against the standard practices, indeed the values, of her country. So often we assume that unless someone has plenty of cash they will simply get mortgage. This is not always the case nor the desire.

We spent lots of time talking about mortgages, how they work, the value from an equity and tax perspective, and more. While there is plenty of cash available, to find the right home for these buyers in the Carlsbad real estate market, a mortgage (small) may also be needed, and getting beyond the psychological and emotional attitude toward having credit (ouch - a monthly debt) is a big step.

Frankly, it was a refreshing attitude, and an interesting commentary on how credit-driven (read DEPENDENT) our society is and has become.

Not everyone values homeownership in the way that we do, nor do other countries offer the tax advantages or a capitalist society that enables so many to buy on credit and to create the huge debt we have as a country.

It was an eye opener. And valuable lesson as a real estate professional.

SIDE NOTE - if buyers are cash buyers from another coutnry they may have limitations on how much they can take out of their country at a given time. This is an important issue for them to understand and plan for when buying in the US.

Since we're chatting about money, you may recall this (well, that depends on your age, of course).

Carlsbad Restaurants - Le Passage in Carlsbad Village (LOCALISM FEATURED)

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 12:01:25 -0500

It somehow seems fitting to write about a favorite restaurant right after talking about a neighborhood named after a winery.

You know - food and wine? And who knows better than the French!

Carlsbad has plenty of restaurants to enjoy, in the village itself as well as scattered throughout the town. A few are very high end, some are memorable and charming, and others are basic and budget-oriented.

Le Passage, a French bistro in the heart of Carlsbad Village at 2961 State Street (1/2 block north of Carlsbad Village Drive) is a favorite of mine. This charming little eatery reminds me of the small sidewalk places in Paris - you can even sit outside in front at one of 2 tables to enjoy the people-watching and downtown area, or dine outside on their back patio which is quieter (you find your way their right through the kitchen).

The interior is small and beautifully painted, with tables set with black linens, and you can watch the activity in the kitchen should you care to do so. They have opened a new room next door since I was last there so business is clearly going well. The dinner menu is varied with daily specials, and they have an excellent wine list. Reservations are recommended, at least for dinner which is served from 5 until closing every day except Mondays when they are closed (lunch is served 11 - 2 Tuesday through Friday, and 12 - 2 on the weekends).

Why not take a brak from your search for Carlsbad real estate and see how the locals live!

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Carlsbad Real Estate - View Homes at Montevina at Rancho Carrillo

Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate (RE/MAX Associates) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 22:10:34 -0500

The Carlsbad real estate market continue to offer a variety of options to buyers, with a substantial, but not excessive, inventory and a broad range of home styles and prices.

Should you be so fortunate at to be looking at Carlsbad homes for sale, you are in a good situation as a buyer. And the view homes in the gated community of Montevina may be something to consider (the name makes me think of the beautiful hills towns of Tuscany in Italy, and it is the name of a winery known for Zinfandels).

Granted, there are not a lot of homes available in this appealing community in the master planned community of Rancho Carrillo at any given time. Since it is a small neighborhood with 2 cul-de-sacs along a canyon, few homes become available, and because almost every home has a view, this is a pretty desirable area to live in Carlsbad. Located just off Melrose and north of the La Costa area of Carlsbad, you hang a right (heading north) on Carrillo Way and follow the road to the attractive gates at Montevina.

Once you enter the gates you immediately feel you are entering a special and private place as you begin a gentle climb along the canyon, with lush trees vegetation to the right and an attractive row of Mediterranean-style homes facing the canyon and open space, with vistas of the rolling hills of Rancho Carrillo on your left (another cul-de-sac, Paseo Callado, leads up the hill to the right).

Carlsbad homes at Montevina are primarily two-story, with some one story models mixed in (the one-story homes have lofts which proved enhance views of the open space, rolling hills, and sky). Montevina homes range in size from 2641 SF up to the largest homes at 3906 SF; you will find 3 to 5 bedrooms and 3 to 6 baths in these properties.

Currently there 3 Carlsbad homes for sale in Montevina, ranging in price from $739,000 to $1,070,000, with 3 to 5 bedrooms and from 3 to 6 baths, with 2641 SF up to 3906 SF of living space. All homes have views. Residents pay HOA fees (approximately $119/month) as well as Mello Roos (total monthly fees with Mello Roos and HOA are in the vicinity of $343.00 per month), and children attend the San Marcos Schools.

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