Karie 's Blog

Corona Condo - Price Reduction $199,000

2008-07-24T12:28:45Z

This three bedroom condo is nestled between Norco Hills with its riding trails and equestian roots, and the McKinnley shopping center with its shops and restaurants. Freeway close! Priced to sell. This is a must see. Investment opportunity orfirst time buyer welcome. Beautiful master bathroom, recent paint in kitchen and two of the bedrooms. Great association pool.

Condo for sale in Corona

2008-06-14T16:14:41Z

• 1,524 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story - MLS® $265,000

North Corona, Corona - This three bedroom condo is nestled between Norco Hills with its riding trails and equestian roots, and the McKinnley shopping center with its shops and restaurants. Freeway close! Priced to sell. This is a must see. Investment opportunity orfirst time buyer welcome. Beautiful master bathroom, recent paint in kitchen and two of the bedrooms. Great association pool.

Existing Home Sales to Stabilize before Upturn

2008-04-14T11:51:56Z

In a recent press release, Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the market will come into clearer focus this summer. "Existing home sales could start to show a sustained increase within a few months, unless there are some additional economic problems or excessive inflationary pressure," he said. "We're looking for essentially stable sales in the near term, before higher mortgage loan limits translate into more sales in high-cost markets. The wider access to affordable credit should increase sales activity notably this summer as pent-up demand begins to be met."

What does that mean to us? We will know when we have hit bottom and are in that upturn by looking back. I hope that as we all look back and breathe that collective sigh of releif, that there were no lost opportunities. This has been a market that has educated us, and caused us to look closely at how we do business.

Heres to some good news!

Karie

Troubled Homeowners Fall Prey to "Rescue" Scams

2008-04-13T15:43:57Z

By Nick Carey

Fri Apr 11, 11:18 AM ET

Among the byproducts of the U.S. housing crisis is a surge in scams that cheat people out of their money, their homes, or both, under the guise of offering to rescue them from foreclosure.

"There is a lot of money to be made if you are good at committing fraud," said Debra Zimmerman, an attorney at Los Angeles-based Bet Tzedek Legal Services, which provides free legal assistance to stricken home owners. "Foreclosure rescue scams are big business right now."

Groups like Zimmerman's say that as soon as borrowers end up in foreclosure -- a matter of public record in the United States - they are bombarded with calls, leaflets and knocks on the door from people armed with fraudulent offers of help.

Huston Julian, 54, of Eastpointe, Michigan, nearly fell for such a scam. Julian bought a home in this working class suburb of Detroit in October 2006, but fell behind with his $1,084 monthly payment when his disability benefits were cut off. He ended up in foreclosure in December.

"I got calls all day from people saying they could save my home," said Julian, 54, seated at a small table in his kitchen.

One group promised help if he gave them $3,800. He borrowed money from family and was all ready to pay, until his suspicions were aroused by the frequency of their calls.

"I said to myself 'something just ain't right here," Julian remembered. On the advice of his younger sister, he got in touch with local non-profit counseling agency the Michigan Neighborhood Partnership (MNP).

"I was able to convince Huston not to send the money and explained to him this was a rescue scam," said Juanita Bryant, a loss mitigation specialist at MNP who is negotiating with Julian's lender on a mortgage repayment schedule based on his restored disability benefits.

While such scams are on the rise, law enforcement agencies are overwhelmed.

"Almost every foreclosure rescue program you see out there is fraud," said Todd Lackner, a San Diego-based mortgage fraud investigator. "Sadly, the law enforcement community lacks the funds to investigate or prosecute all the cases."

Nonprofit groups say they, too, are vastly outgunned.

"The challenge we face is we lack the resources to compete with groups going door-to-door targeting home owners," said Josh Zinner, co-director of New York-based nonprofit NEDAP.

SMOOTH OPERATORS

As well as extorting money with promises of help that never materialize, other rescue scams include tricking borrowers into signing over part or all of their property. Often, the owners think they are signing a refinancing when they are actually signing a deed of transfer.

"In many cases people sign blank documents that are then doctored by adding text and a notary stamp to make them look like genuine contracts," said Pegah Kamrava of Bet Tzedek.

Kamrava is representing Teresa Martinez, 60, who said she was tricked out of her home by four men when she fell behind on her mortgage.

"They seemed like such decent young men so I trusted them," she said. "Now I feel stupid because they stole my home."

Martinez said she did not knowingly sign a transfer document, and paid $2,000 a month to the men, thinking she was still making her mortgage payments.

Randy Cornejo, listed as the owner of the home in court papers, said he bought the home from Martinez a year ago and rented it back to her. "I am the owner, and because she stopped paying rent we want to evict her," he told Reuters by telephone.

Bet Tzedek's Zimmerman said rescue scams prey on borrowers' fear and desperation when they end up in foreclosure.

"Property ownership is an integral part of the American dream," she said. "When home owners face losing that dream and someone says they can help, they jump at the chance."

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has a list of certified counseling groups on its Web site (http://www.hud.gov) and experts say homeowners should accept help only from certified groups.

"If a group is not HUD certified, home owners should avoid it," said Ozell Brooklin of Acorn Housing in Atlanta. "The cash people hand over to crooks is money that could help them get a loan modification from their lender and save their home."

Rescue scam statistics are scarce. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation includes rescue scams in overall fraud data. This year, the FBI says it expects 60,000 Suspicious Activity Reports related to mortgage fraud, up from 47,000 in 2007 and just 7,000 in 2003. The agency periodically announces it has filed charges in high-profile rescue fraud cases involving millions of dollars and hundreds of homes.

"We've had reports of rescue scams from almost every field office," said FBI spokesman Stephen Kodak. "This shows the ingenuity of criminals who can adapt to any economic environment."

The FBI has 150 agents devoted to mortgage fraud and has formed task forces with local law enforcement agencies in 32 U.S. states to help track rescue scams, he said.

But some officials argue more funding and public support are needed.

"Law enforcement agencies were already overworked and overwhelmed before this problem arose," said David Fleck, deputy district attorney for Los Angeles county. "The public at large sees violent crime as a greater threat than white collar crime, so rescue scams receive less attention."

"But fraud is just theft," Fleck said, "only instead of a gun you use a lie."

Riverside's Wireless Internet Service

2007-08-18T19:12:17Z

What is Riverside's Wireless Internet Service?

Riverside and AT&T are partnering to provide wireless access to the Internet using standard wireless hardware and technology that is commonly deployed in laptops and some desktop computers. The initiative is rolling out in phases as the necessary network equipment gets installed around Riverside. There are several service plans available- a FREE service, called MetroFi-Free, with advertising intended for general usage, a PAID service targeted at business and other users who want higher performance (faster data speed) and less advertising, called AT&T Metro WiFi, and public safety services not available to the general public. We call this initiative the SmartRiverside Wireless Network Service.

Is this available at my home or office?

You must be in an area where the wireless service is currently active and within range of an "access point" (network connection location) for the service to be available. Visit the following link and input your address to see if the service is available. www.metrofi.com/availability.html

If the service is not yet available in your area you may click this link

Email me when this page changes.

and sign up for Email Alerts. From there you can input your email address and what topics you would like to receive updates on and our system will email you and new phases are completed and other information regarding the SmartRiverside services.

How do I connect to the FREE service?

First, you need a WiFi-enabled computer. Most laptops and some desktop PCs sold today already have a built-in wireless capability. If you've gotten a PC from SmartRiverside, it should already be WiFi enabled as well. You can also get relatively inexpensive add-on for older computers from many computer-related retail stores.

To connect to the FREE wireless network, users will select the "MetroFi-Free" network ID when searching available wireless networks on their computer. "MetroFi-Free" is the free, ad-based service. Once connected, users will open their browser and see a registration page where they are asked to register. Users will only need to register once, the first time they log on. On subsequent visits, users will be instantly connected to the Internet.

For more information on how to connect or for other frequently asked questions, visit the MetroFi Support WEB site at www.metrofi.com/support.html

The City of Riverside 311 Call Center staff can also fax or mail a basic connection instruction document to residents that do not have any other way to connect to the Internet to get support. The document sent will depend on what operating system their computer uses - Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Vista, Macintosh (Mac). Call 951-826-5311 for more information.

Why do I get Advertising messages when I connect?

When surfing the web with the free service, users will see an ad banner at the top of their browser page with local and regional advertising sponsors who help pay for the network and allow MetroFi to offer its WiFi service for free to the residents and visitors. If you do not want to see the Ads you must subscribe to the PAID service.

How much does the PAID Riverside AT&T Metro WiFi Service cost?

Paid service plans will have less advertising and will vary in price depending on the service plan. Initially, there will be a 1-Day pass that provides access for 24 consecutive hours at $6.99 and a Weekly pass allowing connection for 7 consecutive days at $15.99.

How do I connect to the PAID Metro-WiFi Network Service?

First, you need a WiFi-enabled computer. Most laptops and some desktop computers sold today already have a built-in WiFi capability. If you've gotten a PC from SmartRiverside, it should already be WiFi enabled as well. You can also get relatively inexpensive add-on for older computers from many computer-related retail stores.

To connect to the PAID wireless network, users will select the "attmetrowifi" network ID when searching available wireless networks on their computer. Once connected, users will open their browser and see a registration page where they are asked to register. Users will only need to register once, the first time they log on. On subsequent visits, users will be instantly connected to the Internet.

I connect Ok when outdoors but have trouble from inside my home/office. What's wrong?

In many cases, distance from our access points and interference from walls and other devices can affect your ability to connect from inside a home or office. Our service provider indicates that in these instances, additional equipment may be required to connect to the wireless service. Please contact your PC provider for more information and to see if you need additional hardware. You can also visit the MetroFi Support WEB site for additional help.

Where can I get more information about the services or setting up my computer to connect?

For assistance with the Free Service contact: www.metrofi.com/support.html

311 Call Center staff can also fax or mail a basic connection instruction document to residents that do not have any other way to connect to the Internet to get support. The document sent will depend on what operating system their computer uses - Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Vista, Macintosh (Mac).
If you received your computer through the SmartRiverside Digital Inclusion Program please contact DigitalInclusion@riversideca.gov
Beyond that, residents needing further help for the FREE service connection must contact their PC provider or a company that services PCs.

For assistance with Paid Service, call 877-472-5819 for technical support or billing issues, etc.

Where is the service currently active?

The wireless network will be available in the following pilot areas as of June, 2007:

Detailed Area Maps

Accessibility Policy	Website Disclaimer	Privacy Policy	Contact Webmaster	Riverside City Home
© 2007. All Rights Reserved. SmartRiverside.

Riverside Homes for Sale- Horse Property $489,000

2007-08-02T19:53:26Z

12285 Road Runner Ridge

Cozy secluded custom home in the Orchard/ Lake Hills area of La Sierra. This three bedroom two bath bi-level home has many custom upgrades including pergo floors, new carpet and paint, and remodeled kitchen with crown molding and stainless steel appliances. Spectacular city lights view from the Master bedroom deck, but far enough away to enjoy your privacy. All this and the 24,289 sq, ft. lot is zoned for horses.

Riverside Home for sale in Jurupa Valley

2007-07-19T16:12:14Z

Home For Sale in Riverside (Jurupa Hills)

• 1,566 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 1 story - MLS® $389,900

Jurupa Hills, Riverside - New Exterior Paint!!! Fresh Interior Paint, Central Air Approximately 5 Years Old, Spa On Back Patio, Carpet Less Than 3 Years Old, Rest Of Home Is Ceramic Tile, Large Corner Lot Completely Surrounded By Block Retaining Wall & Electric Gate For Access To Park Your RV Or Rig!!! Enclosed Patio Not Included In Square Footage!!!

Home Sweet Home…but THOSE neighbors!!!

2007-07-15T12:34:41Z

Make a list of neighborhood amenities that are important to your family. Are they close by the residence you are considering?

Keep in mind what distances and routes to each of these places are acceptable.

Trying to choose between two neighborhoods? What are the best features? Make a list!

Is the neighborhood clean? Yards, streets, parks? Are there parks nearby?
Is it scenic and visually appealing?
Are there quiet areas, streets, cul-de-sac?
Are the people friendly in the neighborhood?
Are there nice trees and foliage?
Do the lots have large or small yards?
Are there walkways and are they easily accessible?
Is it a safe neighborhood?
What are the market values of the homes in the area?
Are there many houses for sale?
How long ago was the community developed?
What is the average age of the people in the area?
Are there families with small children in the area?
What is the proximity to schools?
Are there community events or organizations?

Drive around in the neighborhood. Drive through the neighborhood on different days at different times.

What are the traffic patterns? Is there school traffic?

Is the neighborhood a short cut for commuters?

Is it a party zone on the weekends?

Walk around in the neighborhood.

The best way to determine the cleanliness and friendliness of the neighborhood is to walk around in it and meet its residents.

Relay for Life

2007-06-24T17:02:32Z

I went on a walk today that I actually started yesterday... I walked with neighbors and friends at Jurupa Valley High School. We walked for friends and relatives, for hope and a cure. We talked about courage and honor and memories. If you have never experienced a Relay for Life, that is what you need... to experience it. I consider how it impacted my view of the world at large. So, when I have a rough night... I will remember all those who would wish for my "rough night" instead of their own. When I look at the courage exhibited by survivors and caregivers, I think it could stamp out global whining completely. Relay for Life is a spectacular event that honors the lives that have been touched by cancer and raises funds for the cure. The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. The 2nd Annual Rubidoux Relay for Life has ended... sort of, the track has cleared, the teams have gone home, however the fight continues-- There is no finish line until we find the cure. Take the time to visit a Relay for Life celebration, see the Luminaria Ceremony, Join in the Walk of Silence, watch the Survivor and Caregivers lap, or gather a team and raise funds for those fighting cancer and celebrate the lives of cancer survivors. You will be better for it, it cures us too.

Riverside Golf Course Condo For Sale - $249,000

2007-06-13T20:31:44Z

6152 Avenue Juan Diaz

This private sanctuary sits on the 14th hole of Jurupa Hills Golf Course with a large open living aarea. This home is well planned and offers three bedrooms and two baths. Plenty of storage and personal space. Backyard offers a beautiful view of the golf course with mature trees and landscaping.

31st Jurupa Rodeo

2007-06-03T17:05:17Z

FRIDAY

"Tough Enough To Wear Pink"

Gates Open 5:00pm
Preshow starts 6:30pm
PRCA Rodeo 7:00pm
Live Music & Dancing 9:00pm to Midnight
All Ages Welcome

Music brought to you by
Paul Justin & The Saloonatixx

SATURDAY

Family Day & Car Show

Gates Open 11:00am
Hot Rod Car Show & Family Day Events 12:00noon
Special Rodeo 4:30pm
PreShow 6:30pm
PRCA Rodeo 7:00pm
Live Music & Dancing 9:00pm to Midnight
All Ages Welcome

Music by
Paul Justin & The Saloonatixx
www.myspace.com/pauljustin

All entries in the car show will recieve 1 free ticket to the rodeo

Family Fun Day Events

12 noon to 3 pm

Events:
Beard & Moustache Contest
Best Dressed Rodeo Clown Contest
Watermelon Eating Contest
Tortilla Toss
3-Legged Sack Race
Water Balloon Toss

Trophys to 1st place!

Sponsored By

Mira Loma Feed & Hardware
Quality Feed & Hay
951-685-5787
4742 Troth Street, Mira Loma

Contact:
Ellen Klienbeck
951-360-3761

"Ride To The Rodeo"

Cowboy Church 10:00am
Gates Open 12:00 noon
PRCA Rodeo 2:00pm
Live Music and Dancing 4pm to 8pm

All Ages Welcome

Music by West Coast Strayz
http://www.westcoaststrayz.com/

Ride your Motorcycle to the rodeo and park free!

Home for sale in Highland 6913 Argyle Ave $289,000

2007-05-15T12:23:51Z

6913 Argyle Ave

Highland This Four Bedroom Home Has Been Remodelled Throughout. This home has been completely painted. Both Bathrooms Renovated with new appliances the front bathroom has a new tub surround and pedestal sink. The forced air/ central air conditioning unit is less than a year old. The Roof Is New Too! It Sits At The End Of A Cul-De-Sac Affording You Privacy And Ample Parking.

Home for Sale In Jurupa Valley (Riverside) $100,000

2007-04-29T12:24:19Z

Four Bedroom two Bath home with plenty of room for family and friends. Two driveways for ample parking. Pool, clubhouse, playground, and fitness center in park. Elementary school within walking distance and new high school is on the same street. Built in 2001, so you have all the "extras". Close to Jurupa Spectrum, Metrolink, and Jurupa Hills & Indian Hills Country Clubs.

Jurupa Valley (Riverside) Home for Sale $120,000

2007-04-29T12:08:16Z

Three bedrooms and two baths with an open floor planThis home has wood floors, drywall interiors with neutral colors, a fireplace, and a Master Bedroom retreat You can relax on your deck and enjoy the cool summer evenings. Your new home is within walking distance of the pool, spa, clubhouse, and fitness center. The elementary school is at the end of the block and the new high school is right up the street. This home is located in a family park close to the Jurupa Spectrum for shopping and entertainment, and Metrolink.

Riverside Home for Sale $305,000

2007-04-02T19:36:20Z

· 2 Bedrooms · Could be 3 bedrooms · 1 Bathroom · Family style Kitchen · Retro Accents Throughout

· Well Maintained · Laundry in Kitchen · Covered Front Porch · Manicured Yards · Automatic Sprinklers

· Cul-de-sac · 2 Car Garage · RV Parking · Turnkey · Home Warranty

WELCOME HOME!

This cozy charmer sits on a little cul-de-sac surrounded by the city. The archway at the front gate welcomes you in to a well kept front yard. This cute little home has unique features in almost every room. The kitchen has beautiful tile work. The hall linen closet has detailed wood work. You have to see to appreciate the care and craftsmanship in this home. Freeway close with a small town feel.

9563 Sara Court

Library Events for City of Riverside

2007-03-17T11:37:00Z

Friends of the Library Annual Meeting &
Special Author Event: Jonna Doolittle Hoppes

Thursday, April 12
Annual Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Special Author Event 6:30 p.m.
Jonna Doolittle Hoppes presents the exciting book about her daring grandfather and extraordinary grandmother, Calculated Risk: The Extraordinary Life of Jimmy Doolittle - Aviation Pioneer and World War II Hero. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Oscar Clarke and Arlee Montalvo: Flora of the Santa Ana River and Environs

Saturday, April 21, 3:00 p.m.
Oscar Clarke, natural historian and founder of the Herbarium at the University of California, Riverside, and Arlee Montalvo, Ph.D. plant population biologist and restoration ecologist, will present the new book, Flora of the Santa Ana River and Environs.

Orchestral Expeditions: A Family Music Event

Sunday, April 29, 3:00 p.m.
Ruth Charloff and UCR Gluck Music Fellows introduce children and families to a variety of orchestral instruments.

New Blogger in Town

2006-12-08T18:53:55Z

Hi All, Karie here please comment and let me know what to do. Could you tell I'm new ( wink, wink the southern thing ). Why Blog everyone tells me I should ? Other than learning from all you expert bloggers out there will the public really see this ? Why ask Why ? Help me out.....