Carlsbad Homes & Real Estate Tidbits >> The California Relocation Dude Talks

San Marcos Real Estate - San Marcos Peak Estate Market Report for October 2009

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:59:09 -0600

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.

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 October 2009 there were 107 homes sold in San Marcos' 2 zip codes (92069 and 92078), just 1 more than in September. Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
# Sold	107 (no change)	77 (up 8%)	30 (down 14%)
Ave. $	$378,022 (up 3%)	$441,897 (no change)	$214,076 (down 2%)
DOM	58	50	79
List $/Sale $	98% (77-131%)	100% (77-118%)	94% (78-131%)

There were 162 homes on the market at the end of October with a Contingent status, i.e., homes with offers awaiting approval from the short sale and REO lenders, down 12% from September. These homes are included in the overall Active stats since they are still considered active until the approvals are obtained.

At the end of October 2009 the San Marcos real estate market had 342 homes for sale (47% are contingent), a modest 3% more than the end of September. This represents an inventory of 4.1 months for attached homes (up from 3.9 in September)) and 3 months for detached (a slight decline from 3.1 months at the end of September) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months.

In October we saw 106 homes come on the market, a decrease of 7% from September (the 4^th month of declines in new listings). However the number of homes going pending went up by 7% over September. Thus the San Marcos real estate market is not getting less competitive for buyers, and is a sellers market for the inventory priced under $400K which is a good portion of the housing market.

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 San Marcos (92078 and 92069).

San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for August 2009

San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for July 2009

San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for June 2009

San Marcos Real Estate Market Report for May 2009

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If I can provide more information about San Marcos real estate 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 - New Homes at Marketwalk in San Elijo Hills in San Marcos California

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:10:43 -0600

Buyers in the San Marcos real estate market are facing a market that is quite different than at the beginning of the year.

The inventory is down (only about 3 - 4 months worth for both detached and attached homes) and a lot of competition.

Those buyers seeking new home construction in San Marcos and who are looking for a village feel, with a short distance to a number of amenities including shopping should consider thenew homes at Marketwalk in the San Elijo Hills master planned community in San Marcos.

San Elijo Hills is an award winning master planned community built on the hills of south San Marcos and is designed as a resident-friendly community with a vision back to the villages of the past that were popular for their town centers and community activities.

Take a VIDEO TOUR of the San Elijo Hills Town Center.

Marketwalk is a series of 12 townhomes in the heart of the San Elijo Hills downtown area, around the corner from the Albertsons' Grocery Store (with Savon Pharmacy). These homes with 4 floor plans (in Italian, Colonial or Loft styles and finishes), are built above the retail establishments on the first floor along the main street with views of the park to the west.

These new construction homes are built on 2 levels, with separate garage parking (2 spaces). The floor plans are:

Plan 1 - 1200 SF with 2 BRs and 2.5 baths
Plan 2 - 1647 SF with 3 BRs (or 2 with office) and 3 baths
Plan 3 - 1824 SF with 3 BRs and 3 baths
Plan 4 - 2712 - 2734 SF with 3 BRs and 3.5 baths. There is 1 Plan 4 unit that has an optional ground floor that can be use for retail (could be leased)

Current prices range from $385,000 - $714,000; 3 units are now reserved.

HOA fees are $337 to $410/month depending on the plan. There are Mello Roos fees of $50/month.

The local community has two schools, a media center, auditorium, an 18-mile trail network, a 19 acre park (with ball field) with retail growing.

The new homes in Marketwalk in San Elijo Hills in San Marcos, CA offer a terrific opportunity for those buyers seeking an in-town home without a yard to care for in a planned community that continues to grow yet remains focused on its residents.

Encinitas Fall Street Fair is this Sunday November 22, 2009 in Downtown Encinitas California

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:04:34 -0600

The annual Encinitas Fall Street Fair will be held this Sunday, November 22, 2009 in the downtown area from 9 until 4 pm. As we are getting closer to the holidays this is a terrific opportunity to get your holiday shopping done.

The Encinitas Fall Street is very popular, and as an annual event for two decades, folks have come to known that this festival is the place to be the weekend before Thanksgiving, just 3 blocks from the ocean in the heart of downtown.

The Encinitas Fall Street Fair is large, with over 450 vendors scattered along main street (the Coast Road/101) with arts, crafts, plenty of food. You can also visit the 200 or so shops along the route or dine in one of the 40+ restaurants between D and J Streets. They will have live music at The Lumberyard (the large shopping strip mall to the South) and at a Community Stage set up by F Street. My favorite local latin music band, Luna Llena, will be playing from 1:30 - 3:30.

The main road will close beginning at 6 but there is plenty of parking along the side streets as well as parking lots including the one at the Coaster Station just 1 block over from the Coast Road (why not take the train?).

To learn more, visit the Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association 101 website. Or jus stop by on Sunday - I'll be there in the early PM before heading over to a Brazilian Jazz Concert (the second annual) at the Encinitas Public Library at 2:00.

Downtown Encinitas Dining and Shopping Extravaganza

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If I can provide more information about Encinitas real estate 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.

Take A Virtual Tour in San Elijo Hills Town Center in San Marcos California

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:15:12 -0600

San Elijo Hills is an award winning master planned community with a focus on walkability, and recreating the small town feel of the past.

The town center is growing in leaps and bounds now, after a bit of a stall for quite some time (lots of contro ersy about that). The Albertsons' grocery was added last year (with its Savon Pharmacy) and slowly but surely there are other retailers moving in as space is available.

Here's a partial list:

Alberstons and Savon Pharmacy
Hometown Realty
Postal Annex
Dexter's Deli (for pets, not YOU!)
Yogurt Utopia
French's Color and Nails
Windmill Dry Cleaners

The French Bakery/Cafe has left recently and there is a new place in town but I don't recall the name. My bad. Plus there are some other business services including an attorney and the Visitors' Center in town, with room for more.

The MarketWalk condos are now selling (12 unique townhomes in the heart of town - stay tuned for my article).

Two schools - elementary and middle - plus an auditorium and media center are within walking distance as is a huge ball field and of course the park with a beautiful fountain. It really does make one think of some of the towns we have all seen and loved.

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If I can provide more information about San Marcos and San Elijo Hills real estate 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.

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Real Estate Market Report for October 2009

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:31:18 -0600

Solana Beach is an affluent coastal town south of Encinitas and Cardiff, and among the more expensive coastal communities in coastal San Diego. Despite changes in prices over the last several years the Solana Beach real estate market has seen less dramatic changes than some other nearby towns further inland.

READ MORE: Solana Beach Real Estate

As a buyer or seller in the Solana Beach real estate market, understanding recent trends and current market conditions is essential in order to make informed decisions; media reports focus on general market conditions and therefore will not provide an accurate picture of the local Solana Beach real estate market.

The following data are taken from the San Diego MLS (private sales are not included in these statistics, nor are multifamily properties or mobile/manufactured homes). The data are believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed.

In October 2009 11 homes sold in the Solana Beach real estate market, the same as in the previous month. Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
*# Sold*	15 (up 27%)	3	12
*Average $*	$893,440 (up 5%)	*$1,933,333 (up 67%)	$633,446 (up 32%)
*Days on Market*	84	72	82
*Sale* *Price/List Price*	93%	91%	94%

*There were only 3 homes sold, ranging from $750K to $3.3 million which accounts for the large increase in the average sales price.

There were 7 Solana Beach homes on the market with a Contingent status (1 less than last month), i.e., short sale or REO homes that have offers being considered by lenders. These are included in the statistics below.

At the end of October 2009 there were 112 Solana Beach homes for sale, down 7% from last month (following a 12% decline from August). This represents an inventory of 6.1 months for attached homes (compared to 7.4 months in September) with another respectable decrease to 10.7 months for detached homes from the 11.4 months last month, based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months.

In October 42 homes came on the market, over double the number in September, and 17 homes went pending, 2 less than last month.

I am happy to provide you with more information about current real estate activity in the Solana Beach real estate market.

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for August 2009

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for July 2009

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for June 2009

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for May 2009

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for April 2009

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for March 2009

Solana Beach Real Estate - Solana Beach Market Report for February 2009

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If I can provide more information about Solana Beach real estate 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 Real Estate Market Report for October 2009

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:07:21 -0600

Del Mar is a small coastal town in North San Diego County with a reputation as one of the most expensive towns in the county. Indeed, the Del Mar real estate market currently has two of the most expensive homes for sale in San Diego County (at $76M and $50M), and still holds the record for the most expensive property sold (at about $48,000,000).

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

18 homes sold in the Del Mar real estate market in October, down 22% from September. Here's a summary of the activity:

	Total	Detached	Attached
*# Sold*	18 (down 22%)	13 (down 19%)	5 (down 29%)
*Average Price*	$1,716,004 (up 20%)	$1,937,060 (up 11%)	$1,141,260 (up 65%)
*Days on Market*	105	98	123
*Sale* *Price/List Price Ratio*	91%	91%	91%

Sales volume decreased over the prior month with another upward shift in the average prices of homes across the board. The dramatic rise in average sale price for attached homes was due to the sale of 1 unit for $2.8 million. There was also an $8.5 million detached home which led to another increase in average sales price.

There were 7 Del Mar homes on the market at the end of October 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.

20 homes entered the Del Mar real estate market in October 2009, 57% fewer than in September.

There were 181 Del Mar homes for sale at the end of October 2009, about the same as last month. At the current rate of sales over a 6-month period, this represents an inventory of 10.9 months for detached homes (down from 12.4 in September), and 10 months for attached properties, almost the same as last month.

13 Del Mar homes went pending in October (12 of them detached), down 57% from September.

As with any statistic, 1 month of numbers are not a trend, so it is important to watch what is and has been happening over a period of time. One should not draw any firm conclusions regarding pricing because of the extremes in the Del Mar real estate market, however there are some encouraging numbers regarding a more stable inventory with fairly consistent sales.

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

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

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

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

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

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If I can provide more information about Del Mar real estate 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.

Top of the World Views at Double Peak Park in San Elijo Hills, San Marcos California

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:54:26 -0600

I took a walk around Double Peak Park in San Elijo Hills, as master planned community in San Marcos, California. This newly created park (less than 1 year old) has incredible views in all directions, south to San Diego, north to Orange and Riverside Counties and of course of the ocean.

It was a bit hazy and breezy and with the sun there are some moments when the visibility is not the best. It's well worth checking out if you are in the area.

READ:

A Peak at a Double Peak in San Marcos

San Elijo Hills - Award Winning Master Planned Community

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Carlsbad Real Estate - New Homes at 53 Melrose in Carlsbad California

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:39:58 -0600

Buyers in the Carlsbad real estate market have yet another round of choices for new homes at 53 Melrose in southeast Carlsbad California.

The newest subdivision in Carlsbad over the hill from La Costa and just north of La Costa Oaks is starting construction, with the first wave of new homes at 53 Melrose scheduled for occupancy around the April 2010 time frame. This subdivision is located at the corned of Melrose (hence the name) and Rancho Santa Fe Road, with a total of 53 homes being built - thus rest of the name.

53 Melrose offers 3 floor plans, ranging from 2025 SF to 2411 SF with 3 or 4 bedrooms and 3 or 3.5 baths. All homes are two-story and one plan offers a downstairs bedroom. Beginning prices will be in the $520,000 to $540,000. Given the activity we area seeing in the other new construction communities in Carlsbad, these homes will likely not sit around for long.

The builder, D. R. Horton, has an excellent reputation (builder of Villareal in La Costa Greens) and Carlsbad buyers interested in new detached homes under $600,000 have a rare opportunity - the large parcels of land to be developed as subdivision as about gone, with the only other area being Robertson Ranch.

Children will attend the San Marcos Schools which includes the La Costa Meadows Elementary School.

No homes have been built yet but the models are expected to be far enough along in construction for tours in December.

If I can provide more information or arrange a personal tour, please let me know. And keep in mind the extension of the first time home buyer credit until April 30, 2010.

Other New Construction Homes in the Carlsbad real estate market:

La Costa Oaks - Rockledge (high $600s to mid $700s)

La Costa Oaks - CopperWood ($700s and $800s)

La Costa Greens - Viridian ($900s)

La Costa Greens - Trieste (high $600s to high $700s)

La Costa Greens - Avellino (townhomes in the high $400s and $500s)

La Costa Greens - SolTerra (mid to high $500s)

READ MORE:

Carlsbad Village by the Sea

La Costa - A Great Residential Community in Carlsbad

La Costa Greens - Master Planned Community

La Costa Oaks - Master Planned Community in La Costa Carlsbad

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad real estate 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 Property Taxes - Do You Need to Appeal Your Assessment?

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:59:30 -0600

Carlsbad Property Taxes - Do you need to appeal your assessment?

My guess is that you do.

If you don't know the answer, you do.

The assessed values of many homes in Carlsbad (and certainly elsewhere in San Diego County) have declined due to the housing market. So too have the assessed values which the San Diego County Assessor's Office uses to determine your property taxes.

If you believe your property's assessed value has declined, there IS something you can do - file an APPLICATION FOR CHANGED ASSESSMENT before November 30, 2009 for this current tax period to request a reassessment.

The form and instructions can be downloaded from the County of San Diego Appeals Board page or email me and I will send you the pdf.

You simply complete the appropriate sections of the form, sign and date it, and be sure to include the CURRENT value of the land and the structures (from your tax bill), PLUS YOUR estimate of value for these items, and you're done.

While there is no guarantee that your request will be honored, given the decline in values it is well worth a few minutes of your time. What do you have to lose but a few minutes of your time and the cost of a stamp?

Note that this is for 1 YEAR ONLY, and it is critical to still pay your current property taxes as billed on time.

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Speechless Sunday - Cancun Moon

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:28:39 -0600

I took this photo from the balcony of our room at the Westin Lagunamar Resort in Cancun Mexico one evening (Monday Nov. 2, 2009) as we were enjoying a glass of wine before dinner, watching the full moon rise. I didn't have my tripod so the photo was a little shakey, but catching the cruise ship coming past the edge of the hotel added some interest. Not quite as good as the real thing but you get the idea.

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Real Estate Market Report for October 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:34:15 -0600

The Oceanside real estate market has undergone many shifts and continues to evolve, especially with the number of distress sales. This report does not include any private sales nor manufactured or 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, so information may not represent the reality of the local Oceanside real estate market. Having data from a knowledgeable agent about local market conditions benefits you as the buyer or seller for making informed decisions about a purchase or sale.

In October 2009 there were 201 homes sold in Oceanside's 4 zip codes (92054, 92056, 92057, 92058), as compared to 219 in September (a decrease of 8%). Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
# Sold	201 (down 8%)	136 (no change)	65 (down 23%)
Average $	$291,254 (down 1%)	*$339,247 (down 4%)	** $191,880 (down 4%)
Days on Market	60	63	55
Sale $/List $	100%	100% (77-118%)	101% (85-122%)

* One home was reported as selling for $208 when in fact it sold for $280K. This average has been corrected to make the adjustment for the error in reporting on the MLS.

** One home was reported as selling for $206 when it actually sold for $206,000. This average has been corrected to make the adjustment for the error in reporting on the MLS

In Oceanside there were 295 homes with a contingent status at the end of October, 4% fewer than at the end of September. This represents 63% of all the homes for sale. Buyers entering the Oceanside real estate market are seeing almost 2/3s of the inventory already with offers in for approval for short sales and REOs. (Note: these are not the only short sale and REO homes for sale). These contingent homes are included in the overall Active stats below.

At the end of October 2009 the Oceanside real estate market had 763 homes for sale, up 6% from September. This represents an inventory of 3.1 months for detached homes (down from 3.1 month in September) and 4 months for attached homes (up slightly from September) based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months.

In October 164 homes came on the market, 59% fewer than last month. During October 177 homes went pending, 25% less than last month.

More details can be provided with regard to current activity in the Oceanside real estate market as well as within the specific zip codes or subdivisions.

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Real Estate Market Report for August 2009

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Real Estate Market Report for July 2009

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Real Estate Market Report for June 2009

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Real Estate Market Report for May 2009

Oceanside Real Estate - Oceanside Real Estate Market Report for March and April 2009

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If I can provide more information about Oceanside real estate 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.

Cardiff Real Estate - Cardiff Real Estate Market Report for October 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:20:20 -0600

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 small and very localized, and knowing what is going on 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 because of the limited inventory.

READ MORE: Cardiff by the Sea

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

	TOTAL	DETACHED	ATTACHED
# SOLD	7 (down 36%)	6	1
Average $	$852,909 (up 2%)	$865,833 (down 27%)	$329,000
DOM	113	110	76
Sale $/List $ Ratio	97%	96%	100%

The number of homes sold in Cardiff in September declined, with 4 fewer homes sold than in September. Average sales prices dropped fairly significantly but it would be unwise to draw any firm conclusions of the pricing trends or other trends due to the small number of homes sold. The attached sale was a short sale; 1 detached sale was an REO and 1 was a short sale, thus distress sales accounted for 43% of the Cardiff sales in October.

At the end of October there were 8 homes in the Cardiff real estate market 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, thus, are included in the Active statistics below.

As of October 2009 there were 53 Cardiff homes for sale, 3 more than last month. This represents an inventory of only 3.4 months for attached homes (up from 2.9 months in September 2009) and 8.9 months for detached homes (up from 6.8 months in September).

12 Cardiff homes came on the market in October, 1 more than in September, with 11 homes going pending during the same period, 1 less than in September.

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 Market Report for August 2009

Cardiff Real Estate Market Report for July 2009

Cardiff Real Estate Market Report for June 2009

Cardiff Real Estate May 2009 Market Report

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 real estate 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.

Did You REALLY Say That? Uh Oh!!

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:50:36 -0600

You've likely done it yourself, or heard someone else do it. And thought to yourself...did you REALLY say that? Uh Oh.

Saying the wrong thing can be embarrassing or hurtful, or get you into hot water.

Saying the wrong thing on-line can get you into big trouble as well...legally. It happens frequently, and more and more commonly we are seeing issues being tested in the court room.

I attended the RE Bar Camp San Diego last Thursday with roughly 400 other folks from around the country. It was a stellar event - you can read some other people's impressions and check out photos and such - Lisa Heindel, William Johnson, Christine Donovan, and Jane Peters.

I was, as always impressed with the amount of learning and sharing that takes place at these events, and I always come away with a head full of ideas and questions, and wanting to implement all sorts of new techniques.

I was especially impressed with the session with Eric Byrn on the legal aspects of blogging and social media and thought I'd pass along some pearls of wisdom.

THE NEW FTC REGULATIONS

These require folks to disclose alliances with vendors, endorsements (hmm, you write a post about a terrific product, and don't disclose that you were given it for free to use, or are getting paid to endorse), and such. This is a biggie. You can read about these new regulations here. I recommend it.

COPYRIGHT

This has certainly been a hot topic off and on here in AR with regard to stealing others' articles, photos, videos, and graphics. Lenn Harley is probably our most knowledgeable person on this issue and has published a fabulous series of articles. You can ead more about Copyrights on Wikipedia as well. But still it continues with people stealing others' work, and using photos without attribution or for commercial purposes when the TOS prohibits that. More and more copyright violations are getting testing in the courts.

DEFAMATION

You see in it people's tweets, their blog posts, comments and responses to comments. Things are said about companies, colleagues and clients that probably should be said. You probably heard about the big FedEx scandal in Tennessee with the VP of Marketing. Here's just one article on the Ketchum-FedEx-Twitter Saga to get you thinking about saying the wrong thing on-line.

FAIR HOUSING ISSUES

Saying the wrong thing that violates fair housing laws can land you in deep doo doo.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Sharing information about clients, transactions, communications and so on can be a big problem. Don't do it. Emails and voice mails are not becoming a bigger part of discovery in the legal process. Is that email you sent to that client really confidential? Probably not.

Of course what makes the legal issues of social media and blogging so important to bear in mind is the ease of discovery as Eric said. The Internet has along memory and it's pretty easy to make copies of blog articles, get hold of email communications and text recorded voice mail and similar documentation. I'm not an attorney but even I can tell this stuff poses a big risk, and as more cases are tested, well you can guess what will happen.

Did you REALLY say that? Uh Oh.

Yep, you did...and I can prove it.

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So What Do You Say About Them Comments?

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:28:28 -0600

Commenting, or not, has often been a topic of discussion, and disagreement. While there seems to be little argument that spam commenting is inappropriate, varied opinions have been shared about the nature of commenting and what is acceptable and what is frowned upon.

But what about responding to comments?

Some folks are very diligent about writing a thoughtful response to each comment, or most of them anyway. Others take a more efficient approach and simply say "thanks for the comment," or some other brief rejoinder.

Is it wrong, or impolite, to not respond to your comments, at least those that are not clearly inappropriate and perhaps should cease to exist?

And is an individual response best, or is it OK to write a group thank you?

Should you respond to a comment in kind, i.e., a brief "great job" gets a brief "thanks?" or simply leave those alone?

Certainly comments can lead to lively discussion, sometimes heated, and they may take on a life of their own apart from the post itself, or even become post-like. But what about responses that do the same?

Granted it's your article, and so you have some say in how to respond, or even to not respond or to delete at will.

But do you have a standard approach to responding to comments on your posts?
Do you answer them all?
Some of them?
None of them (yep, have seen that)?

I try to answer most comments, and even all of them in some posts. But I know I fail miserably sometimes, for a variety of reasons, especially those posts that get many of them over a period of days. And I have to say there are times when I can't think of any sort of reasonable response that says anything beyond "thanks, I agree with you." There are periods when time just runs out, and admittedly a bit of laziness might creep in from time to time. I know I also occasionally miss some email notifications of a comment on an old post in the mass of daily emails.

What are YOUR thoughts? How do you handle your responses to your readers comments?

And does it matter it is a consumer versus an AR member?

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Cancun Restaurants - MB at the Aqua Resort in Cancun Mexico

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:32:05 -0600

A Special Occasion at the Cancun Restaurant,

MB in the Aqua Resort in Cancun Mexico

As a confessed foodie, there is not much I enjoy better than a great restaurant. There is something special about dining when everything clicks - inventive food that delights the eye and the palate, attentive service, a wonderful ambiance enhanced by music, attention to detail, and a feeling that you are a very special guest.

Cancun restaurant MB at the Aqua Resort MAKES your feel special!!

Everything clicks at the Cancun restaurant MB at the Aqua Resort in Cancun Mexico, which is oceanfront in the Zona Hotelera.

Celebrity Chef Michelle Bernstein has masterminded a treasure that meets all my requirements I listed above (check out this video interview). The starter was a flavorful watercress salad, and my linguine with lobster, goat cheese and other wonderful additions and seasonings was absolutely delicious. Dessert was am amazing chocolate tart with a surprise birthday addition.. The BEST part was sharing this with a very special person ~ my wife, Kay.

A James Beard award is just a hint of the talent this chef brings to her fabulous restaurant. If you can't get to Cancun, why not try out her top notch eateries in Miami, Mitchy's or SRA.Martinez..

My only regret? I only ate there once and there isn't one close to me here in SoCal.

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for October 2009

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:09:23 -0600

Encinitas Real Estate Market Report October 2009

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 October 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 due to how data may be entered into the MLS system.

In October 2009, 43 homes sold in Encinitas, 3 more than in September. Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL HOMES	Detached	Attached
*Number*	43 (up 8%)	31 (down 6%)	12 (up 71%)
*Days on Market*	60	64	50
*Average Sales Price*	$680,226 (down 18%)	$794,113 (down 13%)	$386,020 (down 16%)
*Average Sale $/List $*	96%	98%	96%

Home sales rose modestly in the Encinitas real estate market due to more attached home sales (detached home sales declined). Average sales prices declined across the board.

There were 26 homes with a Contingent status at the end of September (i.e., short sale and REO homes having offers that are being considered by the lenders), 24% fewer than last month. These homes are considered Active and are included in the overall active statistics.

For October 2009 the Encinitas real estate market saw no change in inventory over September, with 237 homes for sale at the end of the month. This represents an inventory of 5.3 months for attached homes, up from 5.1 months in September, and 5.2 months for detached homes at the current rate of sales, another decrease, from 5.4 months in September (based on a 6-month period).

82 Encinitas homes came on the market in October compared to 61 the previous month (a 34% increase). In contrast 60 homes went pending during the same time period, the same as last month.

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 sense of what is happening in the Encinitas real estate market. If I can provide more specific information or answer any particular questions, please let me know.

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for August 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for July 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for June 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for May 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for April 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for March 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for February 2009

Encinitas Real Estate - Encinitas Real Estate Market Report for January 2009

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Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for October 2009

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:23:41 -0600

The Carlsbad real estate market continues to shift, and the statistics for October show a number of changes from September 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.

READ MORE: Carlsbad Village by the Sea

Media reports speak in general terms, 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 so you can make informed purchase and sale decisions.

In October 2009 there were 121 homes sold in Carlsbad's 4 zipcodes, the same as in September and August. Here's the breakdown of overall activity.

	TOTAL HOMES	Detached	Attached
Number	121 (no change)	83 (up 5%)	38 (down 1%)
Days on Market	53	56	48
Average Sales Price	$593,711 (down 1%)	$691,933 (down 4%)	$379,173 (up 3%)
Average Sale$ / List$	97%	98%	96%

The total number of sales was the same in October as in the previous month but with more sold detached homes and fewer attached. Average sales prices dropped modestly for detached home and but rose for attached.

There were 109 properties (22% of the total) in Carlsbad at the end of October with the CONTINGENT status (i.e., homes with offers being reviewed for approval by short sale and REO lenders), about the same as in September.

The overall inventory in the Carlsbad real estate market for the end of October (500 homes) dropped again, by 3%, from September, following a 4% decline from August. This represents an inventory of 3.9 months for attached homes (no change from September) with a decrease from 4.3 months to 3.9 months for detached homes based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months.

In October the number of new homes coming on the market rose from the prior month; 135 new homes hit the market, up 13% over September. But in contrast during the same time 29% fewer homes went pending than in September.

This overview of the Carlsbad real estate market is based on information provided by the MLS. More details can be provided with regard to current activity as well as within the specific zip codes of Carlsbad.

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for August 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for July 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for June 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for May 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for April 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for March 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for February 2009

Carlsbad Real Estate - Carlsbad Real Estate Market Report for January 2009

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Blogging Withdrawal, A Vacation, and a Hurricane

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:14:37 -0600

I just returned from a week in Cancun.

Yes, it was vacation, and there was NO blogging withdrawal (OK so I did activate a couple of draft posts that were done before leaving but it took 30 seconds to do that).

And there WAS a hurricane - IDA was her name. She flipped from tropical storm to hurricane, to tropical storm and back to hurricane while we were there, AND decided to hide the sun, and provide plenty of rain and wind for 5 of the 7 days of our trip. Despite that there was plenty of great food, it was in the 80s (and very humid) with lots of time to relax and be lazy. How rare is that?!!

This was taken at the beach where we stayed in the Zona Hotelera area of Cancun the morning of the day we left (Sunday Nov. 8), where thankfully the storm was far off the coast to the NE so flights were coming and going. THAT would have really been a bummer to be stuck at the airport.

Anyhow, it is an interesting contrast to the ocean video I took in Carlsbad before leaving. And there will be a couple of posts as I promised two restaurants an article. :)

What More Needs to be Said? The Ocean on Video

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:48:09 -0600

There's not much that I like better than spending time at the beach. While it's only a short distance from my house, it seems I just don't get there often enough.

I was out on a long bike ride recently with my camera and stopped along the beach where the Aqua Hedionda Lagoon joins the ocean in Carlsbad California. The jetties there provide some interesting photo ops, but a video seemed even better, since the tide was coming in and the waves were a decent size. So, for those of who who cannot get to the ocean very often, or who just enjoy the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, enjoy! And while you're watching these waves, I'm watching the waves in Cancun. :)

Carlsbad Real Estate - Awesome Ocean View New Beach Home in Carlsbad California

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:32:21 -0600

Every now and then I like to share what I think is a great opportunity. It may be a terrific condo, a fixer with tremendous potential, or in this case in the Carlsbad real estate market an awesome ocean view new beach home directly across the coast road (Carlsbad Boulevard) from the beach and ocean in Carlsbad California by Carlsbad State Beach (north end).

This newly built home that is nearing completion is priced just under $4 million, which for 3 floors (1 below grade) with 6200 SF of living and entertaining space, a 1700 SF roof deck, a 1300 SF garage, 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 2 half baths, and some pretty incredible views, makes for a pretty sweet deal.

No it is not direct ocean front, but the land in front across the street belongs to the state and cannot be built on. You simply walk across the street and down the stairs to the sand. Perhaps 2 - 3 minutes if you have to wait at the light for traffic.

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Dia de Los Muertos - Day of the Dead Celebration at Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside California November 1, 2009

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:12:10 -0500

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an interesting topic, no doubt, and rather a famous holiday for many, especially in Mexico where it is an ancient tradition (and I will get to celebrate and check out the festivities in person - yikes) to celebrate the lives of deceased loved ones - altars, music, favorite foods of the deceased, visits to the cemeter with flowers, and celebration are the hallmarks of this long tradition.

Dia de los Muertos is celebrated on November 1 and 2 and beyond, depending on where the festivities take place. November 1 is the Catholic holiday of All Saint's Day; November 2 is All Soul's Day.

There is a huge Dia de los Muertos celebration at the Mission San Luis Rey tomorrow, Sunday November 1, from 10 - 4. There will be numerous altars created, a parade, lots of music and food, dancers, and a chalk cemetery where folks (of Mexican heritage, or not) can participate and remember a loved one.

For more information, visit the San Luis Rey website.

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Carlsbad Real Estate - Homes at The Bay Collection near the Beach in Carlsbad California (October 2009 update)

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 10:31:53 -0500

The Carlsbad real estate market has shifted quite a bit in the last several years, and buyers interested in homes at The Bay Collection near the beach in Carlsbad will find some favorable opportunities compared to when the community was first built, including an occasional short sale and REO..

READ MORE:

The Bay Collection - Carlsbad California (article appeared May 2007)

The homes at The Bay Collection are next to the popular, upscale area of Aviara and within about 1 mile of the beach. A number of homes here have ocean views, as the community is built on the gradual hill overlooking the ocean and close to the 5 freeway which provides easy commuting north and south. Most homes are 2-story and. a few single story homes also available.

Currently there are 8 homes at The Bay Collection for sale, ranging in size from 2964 SF up to 3352 SF, with 4 to 6 bedrooms and 4 or 5 baths. Home prices start at $875,000 for a wonderful ocean view home)(former model) with a large back yard and casita that is now a short sale (this home was priced at around a million when it came on the market early last year) and go up to $1.649 million (average price of the current listings is $1,216,624 at $332/SF; average time on market is 95 days). The price range of homes now is quite a bit less than we saw back in 2007 at the time when many homes were brand new.

13 homes at The Bay Collection have sold in 2009 to date at an average price of $1,099,011 ($314/SF), which compares favorably to the $1.055 million average back in 2007 (resales, not builder homes). These homes were on the market for 104 days on average and ranged in price from $880K up to $1.75 million.

Buyers seeking higher end properties that are relatively new in the Carlsbad real estate market will find the homes at The Bay Collection offer an enticing opportunity to be near the beach. For more information or to arrange a personal tour, feel free to give me a call.

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Using My Blog to Enhance Existing Relationships - Tips and Strategies

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:51:55 -0500

The value of a blog is, of course, information. Whether you share that information directly, or guide readers to others sources of information that you have found and feel worthy, the gift to the reader is adding to their knowledge about a community, buying or selling real estate, or whatever the topic might be.

A blog enables you to establish relationships with your readers through regular postings, valuable information that they want and need, and through sharing who you are in your voice and your writings.

Another value of blogging, however, is to enhance existing relationships by sharing information needed by readers and answering their questions. Here are some things that I do.

MARKET REPORTS...

...are useful for providing potential buyers and sellers with updates on what is happening in particular markets. They help me stay in touch as well as provide feedback to clients about what has been happening in their market since they bought their homes. While the news is not always good, it's news they appreciate. And of course current buyers need this information as well so they understand the market they are searching in.

REAL ESTATE AND COMMUNITY UPDATES...

...provide an excellent means for staying in touch with past clients, and enhancing relationships with current buyers and sellers (and prospects) is easy because the information is of value. These can cover a diverse set of issues, for example:

Sharing information about changes in the utility rates (water and sewer rates have gone up recently in a number of towns)
details on the drought and the mandatory water conservation requirements that were implemented
how to apply for a temporary property tax reassessment
products and services in the community

These are just a few of the types of posts I have shared that show I am aware of the issues that impact homeowners, and that I have local knowledge about community resources. Not only do these posts show I care, it's also important stuff for folks to know.

COMMUNITY PROFILES...

...are an excellent way to enhance a developing relationship with clients who are relocating, or just moving locally. While that is often how they find their way to me, continuing to share information on the communities of interest, including local events and things to do, shopping, restaurants and much more further solidify the relationship, provide information they need to made an informed decision about where they want to live.

HOW DO I SHARE THIS INFORMATION? Well, there are several ways.

Emailing folks individually and sharing the links, which allows me to be more personal.
Group emails depending on the topics of interest and who I am writing to
Links to different articles in my email drip campaigns through my IDX
Reference certain articles in the snail mail (and email) newsletters that I do
Share blog posts on postcards although those tend to be to a farm area and not necessarily to folks with whom I have an existing relationship
Blogs are part of my email signatures on everything I send out, including custom email responses to inquiries, requests for mortgage information and so on
Some marketing pieces I include in my Buyer Packet and Sellers' Pre-listing Kits are actual hard copies of blog posts
Include some posts in my Buyer Handbook and my First Time Seller's Handbook (available in PDF form by email or on Google Docs)

And naturally we cannot discuss using blog posts to enhance relationships without mentioning tweeting about them, or including links to them in our Facebook updates.

How are YOU using your blog to enhance your existing relationships?

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I Don't Mean to Question Your Lifestyle...But I Must!!

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:20:54 -0500

I'm sorry, but I don't mean to question your lifestyle, but I must.

Really, I have to in order to be helpful. It's not that I disapprove of your lifestyle and how you want to live your life - you certainly have the right to live the way you want - but since you are moving here to the Carlsbad area (or elsewhere in North San Diego County on or near the coast where I work) it's important that I know certain things about how you live.

Hopefully you will understand my nosiness and be comfortable sharing the way you like to live, and perhaps more importantly the lifestyle you desire once you relocate here to Southern California.

In case you are concerned about where this may be leading, don't be.

Southern California offers a different lifestyle for many because of the great weather we have, and much of what folks in SoCal really like about being here is the fact that they can enjoy the outdoors most if not all the year - sports, recreation, dining and much more. So that's a big piece of what folks are looking for when they move here. And perhaps many of you are not even aware how different your lifestyle might be after leaving the upper Midwest or New England, for example.

Carlsbad - Outdoor Living at Its Best in Southern California

I work with a lot of folks who are relocating a significant distance, and in many cases from areas where the weather and other components of how they live are rather different than in SoCal. So finding out not only how you live but what you are seeking when you move here is essential so I can guide you in the right direction. Here are a few examples.

Some neighborhoods will not work for you if you want to be within walking distance to the beach, or directly on the beach
If you want to live along a golf course, that eliminates many neighborhoods and narrows the search to certain areas and price ranges
Do you want to be able to walk to the beach and amenities or is a car drive OK
Pools and spas are more prevalent here (it's a weather thing!) so if that's important your search criteria should include that, or perhaps a willingness to install a pool or spa.

I created a questionnaire to target buyer's home search criteria they are seeking and ask buyers to complete this, or at least to look at it to help sort through what's really important. You can download this questionnaire on the Savvy Buyers page of my real estate website.

My new questionnaire focuses on Buyer's Lifestyles, since I have found many buyers have fairly specific expectations of what they are seeking in their move to Southern California and they vary quite a bit from person to person.

These expectations can impact the type of home, location, neighborhood, access to amenities and many other factors that we need to sort through to find the right property.

Even if you don't complete the questionnaire, it will help you sort through the issues that matter to you most, and we can talk further about your desired lifestyle as part of the home searching process.

Download the Buyer's Lifestyle Questionnaire (1^st draft 10/09) on my Savvy Buyer's page of my real estate website.

Here's to YOUR new lifestyle in Carlsbad or elsewhere here in coastal North San Diego County.

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The City of Carlsbad Has a New Website

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:42:36 -0500

The City of Carlsbad California has a new website. And it's pretty impressive.

As part of their modernization program in information technology, in order to save money (by reducing the amount of mail, for one thing), to reduce the amount of paper used, and increase efficiency for the City, the City of Carlsbad's new website holds a wealth of information for residents and visitors, and allows folks to performs a number of on-line functions that previously were handled via mail.

The City of Carlsbad's new website provides access to all City of Carlsbad departments and a wealth of subcategories with more information that you probably want or need. I'm still discovering all that the City of Carlsbad new web site offers me and other residents.

In the Building Department, for example, you can research permits, access building codes, search for applications, and learn more about the process for getting a building permit for either residential or commercial construction

Under Street and Traffic Services if you want information about street lights, the street sweeping schedule in your neighborhood, or storm drain maintenance, among other traffic and street related issues, you got it.

Do you need information about utilities, such as setting up service, the water, sewer, recycling or trash service rates? It's there too. Plus you can set up an automated billing system for your water, sewer, and trash services. You can access ytour account here.

The Parks and Recreation Department has a wealth of information on events and activities, trails, parking, recreation, classes and camps, youth sports league, activities for adult and seniors, and much more

In the event of a disaster, or potential, and perhaps more importantly just to know, the City of Carlsbad's Emergency Preparedness Office provides details about the procedures they can implement when needed, as well as a wealth of resources for area residents in the event of a disaster such as fires

Need maps or directions? You can research the locations of the police, fire, the two library, admin offices and more, with printable directions. And the ezoning mapping provides details about zoning and other information on parcels in Carlsbad

I could go on and on, but why not check out the City of Carlsbad's new website for yourself. With so many folks on-line, having a new website for Carlsbad is an efficient way to disseminate information to residents and visitors.

This is a terrific resource for residents, but I find it useful for sharing with folks who are considering a relocation to Carlsbad as part of my relocation services. You can even read about Carlsbad's history and obtain updates on Carlsbad demographics.

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