Linda's Blog

America, meet the new FHA condominium guidelines.

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:39:49 -0500

Via Brad Howell (RE/Max Metro & Capital Creek Development, LLC):

As FHA's current overhaul on backing loans for condominiums looms, I'm asking to myself "what next?" and wondering how the overhaul will affect our local Seattle Metro area's condo communities. In a tough market, in a time when we are still seeing values decline, owners slip into short sale, foreclosure and misery, this might be an unwelcome change. Not just for our area but across the nation. As FHA revamps it's lending practices, adds a .5% requirement to buyer's down payments, and is also removing many approved lenders from their roster (a good thing!) things will get much more difficult in the realm of condo sales. Therefore, we need to become "new" experts in condominiums. We need to commit to due diligence, and fully understand the new processes that will soon be implemented so we can smoothly and successfully guide our buyers and sellers down the path of transferring ownership between parties.

I think it is wise to have condo communities "reapply" for approval status, although I worry that the re-approval process that will be happening across the nation will be greater than FHA's resources will be able to bear. And as such, I can only assume that many deals over the next few months... those that are FHA based financing of course will be burdened by much longer, convoluted closings while the kinks get worked out. Not to mention the denials they undoubtedly will be garnering out. It is unfortunate that this is taking place right now but I do appreciate the fact that the spot approvals will be going away and it will be a "this or that", "yes or no" mentality with which condominium communities will qualify. One perplexing thing about it is how rigid they will stick to the requirement for an "updated reserve study" performed within 12 months of application.

I'm hoping that the change also gets rid of innaccurate information posted on the MLS from listing agents being lazy and checking the box stating that a condo is "FHA approved" because they saw it on another agents listing sheet for a current or closed transaction in the community. I don't know how many agents have said that was their verification process when I pressed the issue to find out how they knew it was truly FHA approved. Ummm, that, my friend, IS NOT doing your due diligence... or your job, nor is it properly representing your client!

To make things easier, here's a tip... HUD has a revamped web site. No, really!!... check it out! www.hud.gov that leads you (very easily now) to the page where you can search for the condominium project (go to HUD.gov, click on the Resources Tab, then look for HUD Approved Condominium Projects in that tabs drop down). I will admit that the page it brings you to still sucks and is archaic in usability. Hopefully they will freshen it up and make it more user friendly as they've done with the main screen. None the less, I'm glad to see that we will have more accurate information on our MLS of which properties are HUD/FHA approved, and which are not. I think the new requirements are detailed more on their Mortgagee Letter ML 2009-01

So in a nutshell, I believe two things... change is good, but sometimes change is painful. All we can do is look to the future, educate ourselves, and do our best at navigating the new world of FHA for our clients!

Mortgage Delinquencies - The Coming Storm

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:51:06 -0500

Let the truth be told...

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

This is one of those posts where I wish I didn't have to write it, but felt it was so important to my readers that I would be remiss not to at least talk about it.

Everyone out there probably knows somebody who is behind on their mortgage payments, looking for alternatives and likely also just finding out that their home's value has dipped below what their loan amount is. I know some within my own personal circles. It's a tough situation for me to advise them as a professional because it's such a personal challenge to their pride and self-worth, not to mention their plans and dreams for the family. The question we're asking is "when is this going to stop and where are we heading?"

I'm going to put up a few graphs that show the trends nationally with regards to mortgage delinquincies:

This chart is by quarter - Single-family mortgages set a new record delinquency rate in the second quarter of 2009, according to a quarterly survey by the Mortgage Bankers Association. Those of us in the real estate business see the foreclosure process (just visit the local Sheriff Sale docket to see the current numbers) but the looming delinqency-to-foreclosure issue is far, far larger.

The Wall Street Journal on 8/3/09 reported the following quote: “While subprime mortgages sparked the first round of housing problems two years ago, now "troubles are lurking further up the food chain," says Joshua Shapiro, chief U.S. economist at MFR Inc. White-collar job losses have accelerated while more adjustable-rate loans to prime borrowers are resetting to higher payments. ‘You put all that together, it leads me to believe that the next leg down on home prices is going to come from the top,’ he says.”

The first objection someone may have would be to say "yes, but historically those who are delinqent usually get their act together and come current on the mortgage after a while". That WAS true, but not anymore! We call that the "Cure Rate", that is the rate of delinquencies that go back to current. The Wall Street Journal reported on 8/24/09 about a Fitch analysis that found that the Cure Rate from 2000-2006 was 45% (which means about half of people fix their delinquency). However, as of July 2009 the rate had dropped to just 6.6%! That means that over 90% of delinquent customers are going to foreclosure. Take a look again at the above chart...

The next thing someone will say is "well, that's the 'sand states' and not my area". Here's the chart for all 50 states showing the same breakdown of delinquencies and foreclosures. Guess what - most states have a significant problem, especially compared to historical figures.

Now the next thing someone may say is "aren't those loans going to get 'fixed' by a loan modification?" I know several people right now who are applying for a Lancaster County loan modification but are waiting and waiting. I hope it works out for them...

In reality, loan modifications are hardly making a dent. To me, that's a burning question. Why arent banks being more aggressive in giving customers the option to extend their loan and/or reset to a lower rate? Why are they being SO difficult? The people I know don't want to be foreclosed. They CAN make payments. They just need the terms redrawn to allow them to catch & keep up. Loan modifications are not helping us get this crisis under control.

What are the causes of all these delinquencies? Here's a chart that is enlightening:

We hear a lot about adjustable rate mortgages being the culprit, but the reality is that it's the loss of jobs and the tanking real estate market that's the perfect storm. See my previous post on unemployment in the nation, the state and Lancaster County.

Keep in mind, this post is not intended to give us "good news". You may be experiencing good things in your market and that's great. My intent is to get us thinking about the challenges that aren't going away and how we're going to address them as homeowners, agents and professionals. I'd love to hear your ideas!

Short Sale to Foreclosure

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:23:43 -0500

Well, after going back and forth with the lender of my seller's home, the house will be going to foreclosure sale next Wednesday, November 5th.

The history of this home goes back over 1 year when it was first put on the market in August of 2007. I came on board as the 3rd Realtor in January of 2008. The sales price started at $749,000. Over the next few months I lowered the price gradually while awaiting my client to complete the bank's requested paperwork. Finally, in August, I had everything I needed from the seller for the bank to consider the short sale. Then, as I brought the price to $599,000, I finally received 2 strong offers from buyers for the full amount. The bank completed their appraisal and they agreed to the short sale, but only at a price of $615,000. Well, both buyers backed out last week and it's now going to foreclosure sale.

One bummer for the lender is that now it's going to sale, the seller is going to take the high end appliances out of the home. He's dismantling the BBQ outside and he's taking the handles out of the kitchen cabinets/drawers. He may even take the spa outside. For pictures of the home go to www.728colman.com

I guess that banks just don't consider these things. I'll be surprised if the bank gets $500,000 for the home after everything is out of there. It's not that pleasing to the eye to begin with. Like any other Realtor in this situation, I'm bummed because this empty home could have had an owner right away, if only the lender wasn't so greedy for $15,000.

California Real Estate Market Average Prices

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:30:12 -0500

It looks like if you want a piece of the Southern California Real Estate Market - but don't have a whole lot of cash - you'll have to "go east young man (or woman)!"

Los Angeles County

Average List Price Median List Price Average Days On Market

Single Family under $600K $357,407 $350,000 104

Single Family over $600K $1,271,195 $899,000 112

Condo/Townhome under $400K $255,224 $250,000 112

Condo/Townhome over $400K $602,774 $525,000 112

Orange County

Single Family under $1M $561,027 $535,000 104

Single Family over $1M $2,724,987 $1,799,000 131

Condo/Townhome under $600K $315,326 $299,900 102

Condo/Townhome over $600K $1,117,344 $895,000 119

Riverside County, CA

Single Family under $700K $270,477 $249,900 118

Single Family over $700K $1,378,965 $999,000 151

Condo/Townhome under $500K $191,459 $170,000 126

Condo/Townhome over $500K N/A N/A N/A

San Bernardino County, CA

Single Family under $700K $280,086 $250,000 110

Single Family over $700K $1,452,017 $1,048,790 128

Condo/Townhome under $450K $215,371 $199,000 121

Condo/Townhome over $450K N/A N/A N/A

Environmentalists Annual Rendezvous and Picnic in Pasadena

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:45:06 -0500

Join leaders of the Pasadena area environmental groups in an informal setting and learn about their activities and programs. All are welcome!

On Saturday, September 13th prepare to gather at 4:30pm and listen to informal presentations at 5pm. Then at 6pm you can have a potluck picnic under the oak trees south of the Nature Center at Eaton Canyon Park, 1750 N. Altadena Drive in Pasadena. Bring a dish that serves 6 to 8 people. Beverages, plates and utensils will be provided. For information and to RSVP, contact coordinator Ginny Heringer at 626-793-4727 or ginnyh@ix.netcom.com

Directions to Eaton Canyon Park: from the 210 freeway in Pasadena, take Altadena Drive north about 1.5 miles; about 500 feet after crossing New York Drive, turn right into the park.

Monte Cedro Retirement Development in Altadena - Meeting

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:31:40 -0500

On Tuesday, September 2nd at 7pm, the Land Use Committee (a sub-committee of the Altadena Town Council) will meet at the Community Center on Altadena Drive.

One of the items of particular interest that will be on the agenda include the Monte Cedro retirement development that is under construction on the site of the former Scripps Home on El Molino/Calaveras/Alameda.

If you can't make the meeting and would like to find out more about the development (that should be completed in 2012) you can call 626-300-6214 or 866-603-8881 to reserve seating at one of two future events planned on September 9th at 10am at the Women's Cith Club of Pasadena or on September 10th at 10:3am at the University Club of Pasadena. www.montecedro.org

Just FYI...at the September 2nd meeting at the Community Center, also up for discussion is a proposal for the refurbishment and joint use of the tennis courts at Eliot Middle School. The courts have been un-usable for several years.

Ernest Borgnine in South Pasadena 08-25-08 at 7pm

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:03:03 -0500

A FREE program will be held at the South Pasadena Public Library on Monday night at 1115 El Centro in South Pasadena, CA.

The show will open with a jazz performance by vocalist Liela Avila and pianist Dennis Hamm from the Pasadena Jazz Institute.

Then, Academy Award winning actor, Ernest Borgnine, will be speaking about his new book entitled, Ernie: the Autobiography. It would be interesting reading to find out about an actor who has survived in Hollywood for over 50 years. You remember him, don't you? McHale's Navy, the original Poseidon Adventure movie, The Dirty Dozen, The Wild Bunch, etc.

For more information call (626) 403-7332.

Free Concert - Tower of Power in Alhambra, CA

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:27:35 -0500

Summer's winding down...I just can't believe how fast this year is going by. Must be because I'm working harder than I've ever worked before!!!!

So...what better way to enjoy a summer evening than going to a concert. Especially, when it's free!!!!

On Saturday, August 23, 2008, you can experience the powerful brassy sounds of Tower of Power (www.towerofpower.com). Remember their hits? You're Still A Young Man, What Is Hip?, So Very Hard to Go, and You've Got To Be Having Fun.

They will be performing in Alhambra, California at the Summer Jubilee on 2nd and Main Streets. http://www.cityofalhambra.org/government/parks_recreation/Jubilee08.html I don't know if Lenny Williams is still around, but, he was THE voice of Tower of Power way back in the 70's. The concert is supposed to start around 6:00, but, I'd get there at 4:00 or so just to get a seat in the bleachers. Otherwise, you'll be pushing bodies around in front of the stage and standing all night!!

National Night Out August 5th - What Will YOU Do?

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 02:05:44 -0500

For some people, National Night Out is tonight, August 4th, but, Tuesday, August 5th is National Night Out - at least in Pasadena it is and at http://www.nationaltownwatch.org/nno/ . It's a night when people all over America will be turning off their televisions and getting outside to mingle with their neighbors. Local Police Departments urge residents to take part in this unique drug-and crime prevention event sponsored annually by the National Association of Town Watch and local Target Stores. The whole premise is meant to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police and community partnerships while helping to raise awareness of local anti-crime and anti-drug programs and let those criminals know that "our neighborhoods won't tolerate crime".

In my neighborhood there will be a big gathering at Loma Alta Park. The Sheriff's Department will be on hand for demonstrations and to answer questions about how neighbors can become involved with keeping their homes and neighborhood safe.

I'll be having some BBQ Turkey Burgers served up for my neighbors on the "Alameda Freeway", but it will be in my long driveway and front yards. I hope people can be swayed away from the television for only a couple of hours to meet and greet one another!

So...how will YOU be joining in on the National Night Out?

California Live Traffic Cams

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:05:31 -0500

One of the number one comments I receive from people relocating from other states to California is that they are afraid of the traffic and how long it may take them to get to work.

Well, now you can see for yourself how the traffic is at any time of the day any day of the week. Caltrans has installed over a thousand cameras on the freeways. When you go to this website http://video.dot.ca.gov/ you can go to whatever areas you're interested in seeing. You can even see what the current temperature is.

I think it's a pretty awesome site. And if I have to travel on the freeways, I always go to www.sigalert.com and I can see what areas are moving - or not!

Happy traveling!

Altadena Cam - Mt. Wilson Observatory

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 11:38:46 -0500

On a clear day you, too, can see the mountains of Altadena. I stumbled upon this website while contemplating a motorcycle ride with my husband up to the Mount Wilson Observatory just a few miles into the mountains north of my home in Altadena.

The camera changes pictures every 2 minutes on the site http://www.astro.ucla.edu/~obs/towercam.htm When you visit the site you can find out all about the history of the Mt. Wilson Observatory, see current satellite images of Southern California, and go to links of other observatories http://physics1.usc.edu/solar/links.html

Here's a map borrowed from their website ... and if you're wondering where Altadena is, it's just North of Pasadena and just East of La Canada Flintridge and 15 minutes north of downtown Los Angeles.

Those Manning Boys to perform at Farnsworth Park on Saturday 7-26-08

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 20:03:14 -0500

Some of our own local talent here in Altadena will be performing this Saturday night at 7pm at Farnsworth Park.

Mike Manning is a 44 year old guitarist who went to St. Elizabeth Parish School in Altadena and La Salle High School in Pasadena. He was in the military and was in Rock-N-Roll bands. He is now the director of the 8:30 Folk Mass Choir at St. Elizabeth Church.

Sean Manning is the younger brother. He's a tenor in the 10:00am Mass Choir at St. Elizabeth Church.

Sean has been performing Irish folk music for over 10 years. It was his idea to form a duet with his brother which today is known as Those Manning Boys.

For almost 7 years, Those Manning Boys have performed their Irish fair of music found in the public houses of Ireland at various Restaurants in the south land. They're also regulars at the St. Elizabeth Annual Festival and at other fund raising events for charity.

Farnsworth Park is located at (almost) the top of Lake Avenue in Altadena, California. Just take the 210 Freeway and get off at Lake Avenue and go towards the mountains for 3 miles and you're there.

Saving Gas and Money!! Some tips...

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 19:46:52 -0500

We're all aware that gas prices are at a record high. But, since there's nothing most of us can do about the price of gas, there are some things we can do about how much gas we use. Here are a few ideas:

1) Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires cause the car to burn more gas.

2) Keep your engine well-tuned. An out of tune engine wastes gas and again your gas mileage could be up to 25% worse than it should be.

3) Use cash. Some gas stations charge more if you pay with a credit card or banks charge fees when you pay with your ATM card.

4) Obey the speed limit. The faster you go, your gas mileage drops dramatically. i.e. going 70 mph requires up to 30% more gas than going 50 mph. My husband proved this while resetting his mileage gage in his diesel truck (he's a contractor). He went 75 mph and got 15 mpg, then he went to 65 mph and got 22 mpg. What a difference

5) Ease up on the accelerator and brakes. It's better to maintain a constant speed than it is to speed up just to pass the idiot in the other lane.

6) Use air conditioning smartly. When going fast, keeping the windows open decreases the aerodynamics of your car which increases the wind drag...then the engine has to work harder and uses more gas. When going slow - it doesn't matter as much, so it's cheaper to turn the A/C off and let the wind cool you. Oh and think about turning off the air conditioner 5 minutes before you reach your destination - you should still be cool.

7) Plan your route better. Especially on caravan day...use a GPS or online map service.

8) Rent a smaller car. When you go on vacation or a business trip is it really necessary to have a big gas guzzler? Don't you remember how it was BEFORE the big SUVs were created?

9) Use your car less. Did you know that here in Pasadena, the metro rail usage is up 19%. If I need to go into downtown Los Angeles, I always use the metro rail. No stress, and no $10 parking fees either! Oh and don't forget to carpool (especially on caravan days). Also, if you bring your lunch from home with you, you save money by not eating at the restaurant and by not using your car to drive there or sitting at the drive thru.

A little bit of pre-planning for the week ahead can reduce the number of times you have to use your car. Sorry, Mom, but, when I take you to the doctor you'll have to be a bit patient if I make stops on the way home!

Pasadena Real Estate Market Overview

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:53:48 -0500

Our Rose City of Pasadena, California has seen the number of homes sold remain steady and the cost of homes per square foot slightly increased in the last month. The average list/sold prices declined.

	May	YTD
# Units Sold	87	335
Dollar Value	$71,513,600	$257,334,240
Average List Price	$851,873	$799,428
Average Sold Price	$821,995	$768,162
Average Market Time	74	79
Average Square Feet	1,859	1,726
Average Price Per Sq. Ft.	$442	$445
% of List Price	96.49%	96.09%

This if for June

	June	YTD
# Units Sold	88	425
Dollar Value	$70,275,980	$328,979,220
Average List Price	$817,428	$802,683
Average Sold Price	$798,581	$774,069
Average Market Time	80	79
Average Square Feet	1,799	1,741
Average Price Per Sq. Ft.	$444	$445
% of List Price	97.69%	96.44%

Altadena Market Overview

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:41:34 -0500

It's that time again....to report on our local market here in Beautiful Altadena, California

	May	YTD
# Units Sold	25	97
Dollar Value	$17,019,750	$63,557,650
Average List Price	$ 699,962	$ 676,854
Average Sold Price	$ 680,790	$ 655,234
Average Market Time	61	72
Average Square Feet	1,792	1,745
Average Price Per Sq. Ft.	$380	$375
% of List Price	97.26%	96.81%

This if for June

	June	YTD
# Units Sold	31	128
Dollar Value	$23,098,000	$86,655,650
Average List Price	$767,819	$698,884
Average Sold Price	$745,097	$ 676,997
Average Market Time	70	72
Average Square Feet	1,943	1,794
Average Price Per Sq. Ft.	$383	$377
% of List Price	97.04%	96.87%

Altadena NAACP offers scholorships

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:15:24 -0500

I was on line at Pasadena Now.com yestarday and came across this article... http://www.pasadenanow.com/_News/publish/article_2475.html

It noted that the Altadena NAACP is offering two scholarships of $1,000 each to 2008 graduates who are planning on entering or who are already enrolled in college or a trade school in the Fall. The scholarships are named after 2 prominent women, Ms. Anthony (Tony) Stewart and Ms. Rosa Parks. I know who Rosa Parks is (who doesn't?)...but, who is Ms. Anthony (Tony) Stewart??? I'll have to do a bit of research...hmmmmmmmmmmm...

For an application for the scholorships, call (626) 794-7999 or go tot he Altadena Community Center at 730 E Altadena Drive to obtain one. The application deadline is Friday, August 15th.

Pet Adoptions around Pasadena

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:02:52 -0500

Why go to a pet store and risk buying a dog from a puppy mill when you can find an adorable dog, cat, rabbit or bird at a shelter or mobile van in your neighborhood?

This weekend the Pasadena Humane Society will have their mobile van with adoptable pets visit these locations:

Eaton Canyon Nature Center 9-12 Saturday, July 12th at 1750 N. Altadena Drive in Pasadena

Petco from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, July 13th at 475 Foothill Blvd in La Canada

and over the next few weeks.....

Dog Days of Summer at Hermon dog Park on Saturday, July 19th from 4-6pm at 5568 Marisol in Los Angeles

Colorado Street Bridge Festival from 6 to 10pm on Saturday, July 19th in Pasadena

Clean Air Car Show in South Pasadena on Sunday, July 20th from 11am to 3pm

Children's Concert at Levitt Pavilion Memorial Park in Pasadena on Wednesday July 23rd from 6pm to 8pm and also on Wednesday August 6th from 6 to 8pm

For more information, call the PHS at 626/792-7151 ext. 138...better yet, drop on by the shelter at 361 S. Raymond Avenue in Pasadena. www.phsspca.org

Tournament of Roses Wrigley House - NAR Float on Jan 1 2009!

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:42:12 -0500

I visited the Tournament of Roses house tonight.

The Pasadena Foothills Association of Realtors was honoring some of the Realtors in Pasadena. They called it a Leadership Recognition Reception to thank fellow Realtors for our volunteer commitment and service. How fortunate and honored I was to be able to attend.

I can't remember the last time that I went to the Tournament House, but, it's changed a bit. What were once bedrooms are now rooms of history with pictures of how the rooms used to look and plenty of memorabilia of Rose Parades and Rose Bowl games of the past. There are still plenty, plenty of original artifacts like the fireplaces, marble floors, ceilings, furniture, etc. But I can't get over how original the library door is. There are pieces of wood inlays signifying "Mind, Body, Soul and Spirit". You've just got to see it all to believe it.

You can tour the Tournament House from now through the end of August, every Thursday at 2:00 and 3:00 there's a free tour. Experience it for yourself. It's unbelievably beautiful! It's located at 391 S. Orange Grove Blvd. in Pasadena, CA - just South of Del Mar.

By the way...it was announced that the National Association of Realtors will have a float in the parade on January 1, 2009! Can you believe that the NAR is 100 years old? Who would like to volunteer to decorate it?

The theme for this year is "Entertainment". Oh, and they haven't picked a Grand Marshall, yet. I think that since Shirley Temple Black was there in 1939, 1989, and 1999, it's only fitting that she should be there in 2009 - if she's not ill of course. After all, she IS entertainment!

For more information on the Tournament of Roses Tournament House (Wrigley House - yes, the chewing gum manufacturer), go to http://www.tournamentofroses.com/index.asp

Wireless Telephone Law - Hands Free on July 1 - Are You Prepared?

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:01:37 -0500

Well, it's finally coming...on July 1st all cell phone usage in our cars in California will be under the radar!

I can't believe how so many people are freaking out about this when it's for the good of all of us.

You will no longer be able to hold a phone to your ear. But (get this) you can still dial. Go figure!

You can find out more information about this new law at http://www.dmv.ca.gov/cellularphonelaws/index.htm

I have to admit, I've often found it difficult to hold a phone up to my ear while driving or parking and having the person hold on the phone until I finish or tell them I'll call them back. But, people, earpieces and bluetooth devices are beautiful things. We as Realtors are constantly on our phones. They're pretty much our bread and butter to connect with our clients. Pulling off to the side of the road to talk and idle my car at $4.75/gallon for gas is a bit difficult for me to swallow. I'm sure I'll meet with some opposition about this, but, it's reality - at least for me!

I've had built-in bluetooth in my car for 3 years now and I love it - so I'm ready. My husband, a contractor, is ready with his ear piece. What about you?

San Dimas Concerts in the Park

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:43:42 -0500

Beginning tonight from 7pm to 9pm you and yours can begin enjoying weekely concerts in the park at Civic Center Park located at 245 E Bonita Avenue in San Dimas.

Tonight, Invasion will be playing and for the next few Wednesdays, here's who else will be performing:

July 2: Cold Duck

July 9: Silverado

July 16: Reno Jones

July 23: five in Crisis

July 30: The Answer (classic rock)

August 6: Kopy Kats with donovan as "Elvis"

August 13: Better Chemistry

For more information, call 909/394-6230.

Enjoy!

Can One Ever Get Used to Hot Weather?

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:58:24 -0500

It's 10:30am here in Altadena, Southern California and the temperature has already hit 92 degrees. I have a big day ahead of me...a birthday tea with some lady friends of mine and then I'm working at the Christmas Tree Lane Association booth at the Juneteenth Festival at Farnsworth Park. Tomorrow we're having church "on the lawn" where I'll be singing (and sweating) and then I'll be showing proerties in the afternoon. I for one, can't stand sweating, but I know it's inevitable. My husband, a contractor, is used to it and can't see why I can't stand the heat so much...guess it's ok for men to sweat! How do you keep from looking like a Sweaty Betty and remain professional?

Ugh!

Altadena Community Garden Picnic set for June 28

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:05:22 -0500

The Altadena Community Garden, located at Loma Alta Park, 3330 Lincoln Ave., will have its annual picnic on Sat., June 28th from 1 to 6pm. Eat the wonderful produce, listen to the Brown Mountain Jazz Band, and enjoy meeting the gardeners and your neighbors. There will also be a raffle and silent auction. Last year this event drew over 200 people.

Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for children 6-12, and children 5 and under are free:

The Altadena Community Garden is located on the site of the former Mt. Lowe Military Academy. An Altadena community fixture since 1974, our diverse group of dedicated gardeners tends 59 standard and 4 handicapped-accessible garden plots at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. The Altadena Community Garden is recognized as one of the leading community gardens in Southern California, opening our gates to school children, field trips, and events.

June 18th Solstice Moon Illusion

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:04:09 -0500

With the heat we've been experiencing, you'd think that Summer already started. Well, here on the West Coast, Summer officially begins on Friday, June 20th at 4:59pm. At this time the Sun will be at its most Northern point in its path around the Earth. This also marks the beginning of Winter in the Southern hemisphere.

Also, Wednesday June 18th is the Full Moon. If you are outside at 8:36pm you might be able to witness the Solstice Moon Illusion. Look to the East where the moon will be rising.

Read an interesting article about it here from NASA:

http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2008/16jun_moonillusion.htm?list1093392

(picture borrowed from the NASA site)......check it out!!!

Altadena Summer Concerts in the Park

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:12:53 -0500

The sounds of jazz filled the air this past Saturday night in Altadena with the Elliot Caine Quintet.

Just in case you missed the opening of the Summer Concert Series at Farnsworth Park in Altadena, CA you can come on out this coming Saturday night, June 21st for the Juneteenth Celebration. There will be blues, jazz, gospel and zydeco music from 12:00 noon to 7:00pm. I'll be there at around 4:00 at the Christmas Tree Lane Association booth...come on by and introduce yourself!

South Pasadena Real Estate Market

Linda Lane-White (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:02:40 -0500

South Pasadena remains a very desirable area based on its proximity to downtown Los Angeles, its small town feel, and its public schools...

	May	YTD
# Units Sold	7	28
Dollar Value	$ 4,972,500	$ 21,692,500
Average List Price	$ 735,271	$ 791,743
Average Sold Price	$ 710,357	$ 774,732
Average Market Time	45	60
Average Square Feet	1,661	1,700
Average Price Per Sq. Ft.	$428	$456
% of List Price	96.61%	97.85%