A smoother transaction is a good thing - 07/27/08 05:54 PM
I have a few tips that will help you make your transactions go smoothly. We have all been there and know how difficult our job can be. We also, know that without transactions actually closing we will see no pay checks. There are many other reasons why we sell real estate, but the bottom line is, it is how we make our living.  Yes, that is right, this is our job and nobody wants to work for free.
1. Be proactive with paperwork: If you are dealing with agents on the other side of the transaction, don't assume because they are … (5 comments)

It Is Not A Law That You Have A Pest Inpection. - 07/26/08 04:28 PM
Did you know that the State of California regulates pest control firms, but it does not require a Wood Destroying Pests Inspection Report prior to the sale of property. However a financial institution usually requires an inspection report to ensure that the building is structurally sound before they lend money on the property. A buyer is advised to arrange for a pest control inspection regardless of the condition of the home at the time of the sale.
There is no law requiring that any recommendations listed on a report must be completed. However, must lenders require that all recommendations be completed … (3 comments)

Update to Malibu's Facelift - 07/25/08 11:21 AM
Update to some of the stores that are scheduled to go into the Lumber Yard shopping mall. Intrermix, Maxfield's, James Perse, Tory Burch, Crumb's Cupcakes, Alcie + Olivia, J. Crew- Hamptons' Beach concept, Planet Blue Kids, Theory, Kitson men's store, Ever, Insurrection Hair Design, Bernie Safire Hairstyle.
The center at Carbon Beach shopping plaza which is in the process of an upgrade has had a substantial amount of re-tenanting. New tenants will be London Scott, a European style hair salon, Pilates Plus, The Plate, an organic health food restaurant.
The Malibu Sands Plaza, is also in plans for a upgrade and … (0 comments)

Malibu is getting a face lift - 07/24/08 05:57 PM
Malibu has been going through several changes lately.  If you have not been to the Cross Creek area of Malibu lately, you will be pleased to see that much work has been done. We are pleased to say we now have side walks, landscaping and several new stores opening.
The old Malibu Lumber building is gone and in its place there will be several upscale retail shops. It has a target date to open this fall. The shopping plaza at Point Dume where Cook's Market was, has been redone and we now have a beautiful Von's Pavilion's.
The Malibu Beach Inn, … (0 comments)

Malibu Arts Festival - 07/23/08 06:37 PM
Have fun in Malibu this weekend.  Malibu is having there 37th annual Arts Festival this weekend July 26th - 27th. The festival exhibits award winning painters, sculptors, photographers, musicians, jewelers and othe artisans. The festival is produced by the Malibu Chamber of Commerce. Join the fun and enjoy the live entertainment and shop over 200 exhibits. It should be a beautiful weekend at the beach.
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Financing for Green Energy Okayed - 07/23/08 11:52 AM
California on Monday enacted a law that allows cities and counties to make low interest loans to homeowners and businesses to install solar panels for high efficiency air conditioners and other energy saving improvements. Berkeley and Palm Desert are two cities that are pioneering a new path to solar energy.
Solar panels can costs $15,000 to $30,000, which is more then most can pay but, you will be able to pay back the loan over time through property taxes. If you sell your property the loan balance is transferred to the next owner, along with the improvements.
This is a big … (0 comments)

The Risk of Not Getting a Building Permit - 07/20/08 05:16 PM
All to often homeowners do repairs or remodels and don't get the proper building permits. This can become extremely risky. If your construction project does not comply with the local codes, the value of your investment could be reduced. Property insurers may not cover work done without permits and inspections. If you decide to sell a home or building that has had modifications without a permit, you may be required to tear down the addition or do costly repairs.
The best way to find out if you need a permit is to call your local building department. 
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After a Disaster Don't Get Scammed - 07/19/08 11:47 PM
It's amazing after a disaster how popular your neighborhood becomes. Suddenly every cleaning service, contractor and handyman becomes available. Your mailboxes are full of flyers and business cards, signs are posted everywhere and the endless knocks on the doors. Be aware... Don't let these individuals take advantage of you during this vulnerable time. Before you hire a contractor or sign and documents for repairs, here is some basic advise.
* Don't hire the first contractor that comes along. Get at least 3 bids.
* Don't get rushed into repairs.
* Watch out for the door to door offers, check references or … (0 comments)

Malibu Launches Emergency Notification System - 07/19/08 02:55 PM
Since the City of Malibu launched their new emergency notification system, we have been notified twice. If you are unaware, this new system provides City and Sheriff's Department staff to send personalized voice messages to telephones, text messages to cell phones, email addresses, personal assistant text receiving devices, and teletypewriter telecommunication devices for the deaf. Residents and business owners should register their numbers and email addresses to be included in the database. to register, go to the City of Malibu website www.ci.malibu.ca.us, and click on the "Connect-CTY " button. 
… (0 comments)

Give Clients Feedback - 07/18/08 11:22 AM
With the housing market changing, we are noticing that the days on the market are longer and the number of showing are fewer.  It is critical that we give our sellers feedback after every showing.
Feedback the sellers want to hear:
1. Did they like the style of the home.
2. Did the floor plan work for them.
3. Was the location right.
4. Did the lot size work for them.
5. Was it the price.
6. Did they seem interested in seeing it a second time.
7. Did they like the view.
8. How long did they spend.
These are … (3 comments)

Scheduling your showings - 07/18/08 09:48 AM
When you sell real estate in areas that are by appointment only, please make sure that you schedule your appointments carefully. If you are meeting with a buyer and it is the first time that you are taking them out, make sure that you stress the importance of them getting to your office on time. Give yourself enough time so you can get to your first appointment on time. If you are late for your first showing then you will be late for the others. 
Sometimes it is extremely difficult to get to the property on time. Situations arise and can … (0 comments)

Make the switch to reusable shopping bags. - 07/17/08 06:12 PM
The answer to the question "paper or plastic" should be "neither, i brought my own!" It is easy to make the switch, but here are a few things to help you make it easier. Most purchases are often unplanned, so be prepared.
1. Get in the habit of always having one on you. Put one in your purse, laptop bag, or even a coat pocket. 
2. Keep enough reusable shopping bags in your car.
3. Get a stylish bag so you will enjoy using it.
Remember keep your bags in a convenient spot and make a conscious effort to use them … (0 comments)

Once again overnight camping in Malibu is back in the news. - 07/17/08 11:53 AM
Once again the Malibu, overnight camping issue is back in the news. It seems that this issue is just not going to go away. It is sad that so much time and money is going to be wasted.  The State of California, City of Malibu, and the California Coastal Commission should be ashamed.
With the economy and all the problems that everyone is facing, you would think more time could be spent on issues like the housing market, unemployment, increasing retail prices, and gasoline. Lets put our money to better use. 
 
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Be on alert during your open house - 07/16/08 05:39 PM
Every week you hear that there has been another robbery during a Open House. You must be on alert when doing open houses. If the home has more then one story or is a large home you should have more then one agent doing the open house. It is extremely hard to watch every room and is very easy to get distracted.
It seems that small items such as jewelry, prescription drugs, and small electronics are being taken. Seller do not always put these small items in locked secure places.. It is up to the agent doing the open house to … (1 comments)

Number one reason not to talk on the cell phone - 07/08/08 10:39 PM
Put down that cell phone. Last week California passed the hands free cell phone law. Isn't it great that now you can drive in your car and not see everyone with a phone in hand. 
After a few weeks into this new law, I see several people still with phones held up to their ears. People are not taking this seriously, is it that the fine of $20 is not enough?
… (0 comments)

Malibu Wine Country - 07/08/08 10:21 PM
Malibu Estate is on the market in the famous Malibu Wine Country. Bottle your own private label from this architectural Malibu estate. The home boasts an expansive private vineyard producing Chardonnay and Syrah, hold tastings in the tasting room and wine cellar. The home is custom designed by Edward D' Andrea and features soaring ceilings and floor to ceiling windows exposing stunning ocean and canyon views throughout.
For more information please call Marguerite Wherry at Benzen Levin Real Estate 310 456-0220
… (0 comments)

Truly Paradise Malibu - 07/08/08 08:33 PM
You think you were at the Amalfi Coast. Beautiful Contemporary Mediterranean home with lush landscaping and unobstructed mountain and ocean views. Features gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, wet bar and walk-in pantry. Kitchen opens to a family room with oak entertainment center and fireplace. Large master suite with fabulous views, walk-in closet, steam shower, spa tub, fireplace and large deck. Romantic dining room complete with wine cellar. Great house for entertaining indoors and out. Offered at $1,775,000. Please contact Marguerite Wherry at Bentzen Levin Real Estate at 310 456-0220.
 
 
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Green Living New Zealand Sanctuary In The Bay Of Plenty - 07/08/08 08:20 PM
This lifestyle property presents the perfect opportunity for the environmentally conscious to create a green living sanctuary. The property consists of approximately 202 hectares or 500 acres in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty and has an ambience of pure relaxation. Whether you are an artist seeking inspiration, an animal lover with a dream of a sprawling ranch, or are simply looking to build a sustainable lifestyle, this property is for you. Enjoy what is considered by many to be the prettiest bay on the coast.  Offered at $7,000,000 USD
For more information Please contact: Marguerite Wherry at Bentzen Levin in Real … (0 comments)

 
Marguerite_photo

Marguerite Wherry

Malibu, CA

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Associate Broker / Teles Properties, Inc.

Address: 11990 San Vicente Blvd. #100, Los Angeles, CA, 90049

Office Phone: (424) 203-1826

Cell Phone: (310) 924-9292

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