Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist's Blog

Woodbury - Irvine

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 01:06:41 -0800

With approximately 636 acres, Woodbury offers a perfect blend of great parks, beautiful gardens, and abundant shopping. Woodbury also offers a 30 acre resort-style and centrally located park that is packed full of amazing amenities. The Commons, as it is called, offers a huge recreation center complete with a Clubhouse, fireplace and barbeque areas, multi-purpose rooms and WiFi network. There are also Junior Olympic Pools, wading pools, volleyball and basketball courts, tennis courts, adult only spas, and much, much more...

Woodbury offers stylish townhomes ranging in size from 1298 square feet to 2074 square feet, and traditional detached, single family residences ranging in size from 2156 square feet to 3112 square feet. Townhomes range in price from the low $400,000's to the high $500,000's while detached homes range in price from the mid $700,000's to the low $1,000,000's.

Like all Irvine Communities, Woodbury offers three great schools for kids of all ages!

Woodbury Elementary School - 125 Great Lawn, Irvine, 92620

Sierra Vista Middle School - California Distinguished School - 2 Liberty, Irvine, 92620

Irvine High School - California Distinguished School - 4321 Walnut Ave, Irvine, 92604

So, if you are looking to buy a new home in a great community that offers resort style living, great shopping, and top notch schools, Woodbury may be your next home!

If you would like more information about Woodbury or any other Irvine Community, feel free to contact me at: mike@movetoirvinenow.com

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Gators, Gumbo, and a Great Program!

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 03:04:32 -0800

About two months ago, a buddy and I embarked on what can best be described as the ultimate mancation, four days in the marshes of Louisiana hunting alligators and hanging out with some of the nicest, most genuine people I have ever met.

On our first night, we were greeted at the airport by a friend of a friend, who I had never met prior to this trip. Thirty minutes after getting picked up, we were sitting in his house eating home cooked gumbo. (If there is one thing I loved about Louisiana, it was the hospitality shown by everyone I met). Little did I know that this was just one of many unbelievable meals we would be treated to in the days to come.

In the two days to follow, we tagged a total of 12 alligators, two measuring over 10 feet. (I know this may sound cruel to some of you who are reading this, but it is absolutely necessary in order to thin out the growing population). That being said, I can honestly say that this was by far the most heart pumping experience of my entire life, a great thing to add to your bucket list if you ask me.

In addition to the gator hunting and great food, it was also amazing to see the complete devastation left behind from Hurricane Katrina. Houses swept off their foundations, coming to rest a half mile from their original location. People fixing up flood damaged homes and starting over from scratch. And finally, homes being lifted onto stilts in anticipation of future storms. It is this last one that really threw me for a loop. You see, in talking to our hosts, they told me that as part of a government paid program, they were able to repair the damage caused by Katrina and then their house was lifted onto stilts. Sounds like a great program right? Well, I thought so too until it was explained to me. Here's the problem. Our friends house would have cost somewhere around $150,000 dollars to tear down and rebuild, brand new, on stilts. The government paid $229,000 to a company that did the repairs and then lifted the house. You heard me right...our government could have saved roughly $80,000 by building the house brand new, but that's not how the program works! These folks were not given the option to build a new house. They had to keep the same house and had to spend all $229,000! UNREAL! I only wish you could have seen how many houses were being lifted in the one area we were staying at!

It's always good to know that in a horrific economy, our great leaders continue to throw away money on programs like this one. Heaven forbid that the extra money spent on this great program would go toward building even more homes, feeding the homeless, healthcare, or any other number of things that are truly necessary...

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

The Truth Behind the Numbers

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:06:32 -0700

Many potential homeowners are in a state of indecision when it comes to making that big purchase. Unable to pull the trigger after witnessing the catastrophic events of the past few years, many are waiting to see if the estimated 5-10% drop in real estate prices is really going to happen. The main problem with that theory is this: Who really knows if there will be another drop in real estate like some are projecting? We could very well be at or near the bottom already. I personally believe that we will see another small drop in the next year or two, but when you take into consideration the low interest rates, the possibility of even a 10% drop shouldn't matter to today's homebuyer.

Let's take a look at the numbers:

10% price drop -

$200,000 @ 4.452% (todays rate) - $1410.00 (PITI)

Let's say that the market takes another 10% hit this next year. That $200,000 house would be worth $180,000. Now, what if the interest rate goes up one just one point?

$180,000 @ 5.452% - This would leave you with a payment of approximately $1379.00 (PITI)

$180,000 @ 6.000% - This 1 1/2 point hike would mean a payment of approximately - $1426.00 (PITI)

So, as you can see, you could end up saving $30 on your monthly payment, or maybe end up paying an additional $16 per month. Is that really worth the wait. What happens if prices don't fall a full 10%? What happens if interest rates go up more even more?

5% price drop -

In this example, let's assume that the market takes a 5% hit. That same $200,000 house would be worth $190,000. Couple that with a one point or one and a half point interest rate hike and this is what it would look like.

$200,000 @ 4.452% (todays rate) - $1410.00 (PITI)

$190,000 @ 5.452% - $1455.00 (PITI)

$190,000 @ 6.00% - $1521.00 (PITI)

By waiting a year and being right about prices falling another 5%, you would actually end up having a payment that would be $45 or more per month than if you bought today! You would have also missed out on the tax benefits of being a homeowner and one year of your 30 year mortgage would have been paid off.

The focus of homebuyers needs to shift from future home prices to the amazing interest rates that are being offered TODAY! There is no guarantee that prices are going to fall another 10% and it is a lot more likely that interest rates are going to go up at some point.

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

I Thought We Were Friends!

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 01:50:09 -0700

I had a conversation with a good friend of mine yesterday who owns a few properties in a small Oregon town. He shared with me a story that is not unlike that of many people who have been devastated by the bubble burst and predatory lending.

He has lived in the same town for most of his life and used the same bank to obtain loans on all of his houses for the past 22 years. For the past five years he has been upside down $600.00 a month on an investment property, never being late or missing a payment. Recently, he visited a "friend" at his bank to discuss the possibility of refinancing this property. He explained to this "friend" that he was literally going broke trying to stay current on the property and that he needed help. After explaining his humbling position, he was told that there was nothing they could do for him. He was told that if he only had more reserves...blah, blah, blah, (If he had more reserves, would he be asking for help?) This "friend" went on to explain to him that if he stopped making payments, they would foreclose on the property, sell it, and then sue him for the difference. This wasn't a surprise to my friend, his wife is a real estate agent and he already knew the foreclosure process. What he didn't expect was the level of callousness that was given to him by someone who has made a decent amount of money from his real estate transactions throughout the years.

Times are tough for a lot of people. Many folks are facing circumstances that they never thought could be possible in their lifetime and they deserve to be treated with respect. Although there are some people who have walked away from their financial obligations without batting an eye, there are many who have done all they can do to save their homes and have just fallen victim to unfortunate times. As professionals, we need to remember that clients are clients in good times and bad. It's how we treat them during difficult times that leaves a lasting impression!

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Mariners Church Fall Carnival - Irvine

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:23:49 -0700

If you are looking for a great last minute alternative to trick or treating, Mariners Church in Irvine has a couple of options. Harvest Carnival is geared toward kids 5th grade and under who can enjoy a plethora of safe and fun activities, including a Ferris Wheel, petting zoo, reptile zoo, facepainting, giant slides, cake walks, and much more! Harvest Carnival will take place on Friday, October 28th from 5-9pm at the Mariners Church Irvine Campus. Admission is just $5.00 and kids under 3 are free. If you would like more information or want to purchase an "all attractions" wristband, you can visit the following link: http://www.marinerschurch.org/index.php/irvine-ministries/campus-wide/1436-harvest-carnival-2011

Junior High kids (6th-8th grade) can take part in "Sugarfest" on Saturday, October 29th from 7-9pm. This appropriately named event will provide loads of candy, a costume party, and tons of other fun activities throughout the night. Tickets are $10.00 at the door!

Mariners Church is located at 5001 Newport Coast Drive, Irvine, Ca 92603

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Quail Hill - Irvine

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 03:27:06 -0700

When it comes to buying a home in Irvine, you really can't go wrong. That being said, Quail Hill Irvine stands out as an upscale community that caters to singles and families alike. With 14 different neighborhoods ranging from apartment living, to condos, to starter homes and luxury living, Quail Hill has something for everyone. Couple that with amazing schools, first class amenities, and convenience, and you have a place to live that is hard to rival.

Schools - If you live anywhere in Orange County, then you know that Irvine has some of the best schools in California and in the U.S. If you live in Quail Hill, your children will receive a top notch education from kindergarten through graduation.

Alderwood Elementary - California Distinguished School

Rancho San Joaquin Middle School - California Distinguished School

University High School - #8 Ranked High School in the United States - Newsweek

Activities - If you live in Quail Hill and you are looking for something to do, you won't have to go far. Whether you want to enjoy a day by the pool, a leisurely hike, or dinner and a fine wine, Quail Hill has it covered.

Swimming/Sunbathing - Quail Hill offers three different pools throughout the community, including an Olympic sized pool, Jr. Olympic sized pool, wading pools and jacuzzi's. There are also barbeques inside two of the pool areas as well as tables, chairs, and chaise lounges.

Tennis/Basketball - There are lighted tennis courts and full sized basketball courts available for use.

Hiking - The Quail Hill Trailhead is a 2.8 acre area where you can bike or hike and take in local wildlife and beautiful scenery. It also connects to the Quail Hill Loop Trail, a 2-mile natural surface trail for easy hiking and mountain biking.

Dining - The shopping center down the hill offers something for just about everyone. Subway, Sushi, Mexican and Hawaiian cuisine are just some of the places you can check out. And yes, there is a Starbucks!

Shopping - Located minutes from the Irvine Spectrum.

As you can see, Quail Hill is a community that offers luxury living and convenience to those who call it home. If you would like more information about Quail Hill or any other Irvine community, don't hesitate to call or email!

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Irvine Pumpkin Patches

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 02:57:51 -0700

If you are looking for a place to find that perfect pumpkin, the city of Irvine has a few great pumpkin patches to choose from!

Tanaka Farms - Pumpkin Patch

Located at 5380 3/4 University Drive, Tanaka Farms offers a truly great pumpkin picking experience. There is no cost for parking or admission and you actually get to pick the pumpkin right off the vine! There is also a free corn maze and wagon rides and a petting zoo for the kiddos. (not free). There are also games, arts and crafts, and food available on the weekends. If you want more information, you can check out their website at http://www.tanakafarms.com/Pumpkin_Patch.html

Also located in the heart of Irvine is Enchanted Pumpkins. They are located at 5840 Walnut Ave, right off the 5 freeway and Jeffrey. In addition to to pumpkins, they have bounce houses, pony rides and a petting zoo.

The last pumpkin patch on my list is Johnson Brothers Pumpkins. They are located at 15670 Jeffrey Rd. on the corner of Jeffrey and Irvine Center Drive. They too have a bounce house and pony rides as well as face painting and a pumpkin graveyard.

We are only a little less than a week away from Halloween, so if you haven't picked up a pumpkin yet or you're looking for something fun to do with the family, check out one of these great pumpkin patches that Irvine has to offer!

Johnson Brothers Pumpkin Patch

Happy Halloween,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

If it ain't broke... make it better!

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:08:39 -0700

One of the biggest misconceptions in business is the old adage, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". Many businesses both big and small who share this sentiment put themselves in precarious situations. They ultimately end up being vulnerable to the innovation of their competitors, resulting in reduced profitability and in some cases, closing the doors. Although there are many that come to mind, the one business that resonates in my mind is Blockbuster.

They had the marketshare on video/dvd rentals across the United States for years and had all the infrastructure in place to own that market for many more years to come. I have no ties to or ill feelings for this company, but their actions or lack thereof serve as a constant reminder to me, the importance of re-inventing myself in business. Ever hear of Redbox or Netflix? These two companies managed to capitalize on the complacency of Blockbuster, crippling the media giant into bankruptcy after a 25 year reign in the industry. What happened? Did their egos get in the way of innovation? Did they discount the efforts of their competitors? I would suggest that there were many mistakes made, none of which I want to make in my business.

"I believe that nothing is more important to our ability to effectively address our present than understanding the lessons learned from those who have come before us." Charlie Gonzales.

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

More Than Ordinary!

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 01:28:00 -0700

This past weekend I had the opportunity to watch the Womens U.S. Olympic Volleyball Team play an exhibition match at Irvine Valley College, and as a volleyball coach, I was impressed with the incredible talent that was displayed. But, sitting there, I couldn't help but think of all of the years of hard work and sacrifice that brought each and every player to the court that day. Lou Holtz, one of the most successful college football coaches of all time, said this, "I can't believe that God put us on earth to be ordinary." The idea that all you have to do is show up, doesn't create greatness, not in sports, career, marriage, or anything else that matters. I have owned and managed many businesses throughout the years and if I am being honest, there have been times that I have just showed up and hoped things would work out. Fortunately, I have learned from those mistakes and now realize that there is no substitute for hard work, dedication, and perserverence.

Here are three simple strategies that I have implemented in my daily business to be more than "ordinary".

1. Deal with it and be done with it - One of my first bosses shared this with me many years ago and it just stuck. He would always tell me that the best way to stay on top of things is to deal with issues as they arise. Don't let emails, phone calls, or anything else pile up. You are more likely to answer two emails than to play catch up and try to answer 30!

2. Never stop learning - With all of the free information flowing through the internet, there really is no excuse not to continue your education. Webinars, books, articles, and most importantly (IMO), the information of those who have already blazed a trail before you.

3. Make opportunities happen - This may be a tough one for some, but I believe that some of the best opportunities come when we make ourselves available. This can be as simple as striking up a conversation with someone in line at Starbucks. The point is this...real estate is a people business. The internet is great, but there is nothing like the personal interaction of two people to create a lasting relationship.

Best Wishes,

Mike

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

A lesson I almost learned the hard way!

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 21:07:20 -0700

Years ago, while running my construction company, I learned one of the biggest lessons of my business life.

I had received a lead from one of the lead generation companies I used on a regular basis and after reading through the scope of work, I decided that I wasn't going to contact this potential client, as the type of work that he desired didn't really fall within my area of expertise. We could technically do the work but I just didn't feel that my guys were proficient enough, so I left it at that. A couple of days passed and I received a phone call from the client asking if we could meet that next Saturday. We set up a time to meet and what happened next is actually quite embarassing. My wife and I were driving around town that Saturday when my phone rang...it was that customer asking me if we had an appointment. I had totally blown him off and decided that I was just going to skip the bid, something I had never done before. I apologized to him and agreed to meet him the next day. That next day changed my outlook on business forever. After meeting with him for about 10 minutes, he told me that he wanted to hire me to do the entire remodel. I guess he liked me, because I hadn't even given him a price to do the work!

Fast forward a couple of years...I ended up doing two different remodels for this same customer, a complete remodel for his mom, and a bunch of other jobs for various friends and family that ended up producing over a year and a half of work! Talk about an eye opening experience.

Yesterday, I received a note from a friend telling me that he wanted to check out a $50,000 investment property in San Bernadino. Not that big of a commission? Give me a year and a half and I'll get back to you...

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

10 things to do in Irvine for under $10.00

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 00:20:42 -0700

There are plenty of things to do in the city of Irvine, especially if money is not an issue. But, what can you do without breaking the bank? I decided to put together a top ten list of things you can do all for under $10.00...enjoy!

1. Hot Air Balloon Rides - The Great Park in Irvine allows visitors the opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride for absolutely FREE! Although the balloon is tethered to the ground, you still get to soar 400 feet above the ground and take in the views of the city. Here is a link to check out directions and hours of operation. http://www.ocgp.org/visit/balloon/ There are also many other free and low-cost events offered up by The Great Park, just check out their website for all the details. http://www.ocgp.org/

2. Woodbridge Dollar Movies 5 - Starplex Cinemas - It would be hard to argue that there is a cheaper date or family fun day than the Woodbridge Dollar Movies. Ticket prices are $2.00 per person everyday except Tuesdays when it is only $1.00 per ticket. Couple that with a hot dog for $1.00 and you are in business. This movie theater has eight different movies to choose from and they change weekly. Add this website to your favorites. http://starplexcinemas.com/

3. Frisbie Golf - A good golf disk will run you about $10.00, but that's all you need to get you out on the course. This nine hole course is located at Deerfield Community Park - 55 Deerwood West.

4. Day At The Lake - There are two lakes located in the community of Woodbridge and both offer plenty of things to do for the family. You can feed the ducks, kids can hang out at the playground, have a picnic, walk around the lake, or go fishing (adults will need a license). The lakes are beautiful and a great way to spend a sunny day.

5. Pick A Park - It seems like you can pretty much throw a rock and hit a park in the city of Irvine, many complete with playgrounds, plenty of space for volleyball, bocce ball, or anything else you choose to do. Some of my favorite parks are - Bill Barber - 4 Civic Center Plaza, Heritage Park - 14301 Yale Avenue, and if you have a skateboarder in the family you should check out Harvard Park - 14701 Harvard Ave.

For a list of all of the parks in Irvine, go to: http://www.cityofirvine.org/cityhall/cs/classreg/default.asp

6. Irvine Spectrum - Irvine is home to an The Irvine Spectrum, an amazing open air mall, with a vast array of shopping, dining, even free live music. Complete with a Ferris Wheel ($4.00 per ride), Merry Go Round ($3.00 per ride), and water pads for the kids (Free). If you aren't interested in doing any of these, you can always buy a drink at Starbucks and do a little people watching or window shopping...all for under $10.00!

7. Hiking - The only money spent to go hiking is the gas to get there, a bottle of water, and you snack of choice. Here are a couple of links to some relatively easy hikes in the area.

http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=XFA020-004

http://www.traillink.com/trail/shady-canyon-trail-loop.aspx

8. Biking/Walking Paths - Assuming you already own a bike, there are many bike paths throughout the city. If you don't own a bike, grab a pair of shoes and walk the paths.

http://www.ci.irvine.ca.us/cityhall/pw/projdev/bikeways.asp

9. Irvine Museum - Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 11am-5pm. General Admission is only $5.00 and Children, Seniors, and Students are all free of charge. Go on the 2nd Wednesday of each month and admission is free for everyone.

http://www.irvinemuseum.org/

10. Beaches - Although there aren't any beaches in Irvine, for under $10.00 you drive to and from some of the most beautiful beaches around. Newport Beach is just 10 miles away while Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach are only 15 miles. Get there early and you have a good shot at finding free parking!

There you have it...10 things to do in the city of Irvine for under $10.00. So, the next time you're feeling like there is nothing to do, print out this list and start marking them off, one by one!

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

What does 2.5 million get you in today's market?

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:09:00 -0700

http://www.redfin.com/CA/Orange/7202-E-Tanglewood-Trl-92869/home/4381469

Even with the median listing price falling to $446,000 in Orange County, there is still an abundance of luxury homes available for those who are willing to pay the price. So, I thought it would be interesting to see what an even 2.5 million gets you in today's market. According to redfin.com there are exactly nine homes listed at that price, ranging from the hills of secluded Orange Park Acres to the beautiful coast of San Clemente.

On the other hand, if you have that kind of money laying around and you are still leary of the housing market, there are other options out there to explore. Check out this gem that I happened to run across while perusing the web. http://omg.yahoo.com/blogs/now/2-5-million-bra-171617340.html

So, whether you are looking for a modest home or high priced apparel, I am definitely here to help close the deal! (Not sure what the commission is for a high end brassiere, but I'm sure we can work something out)

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

A Unique Partnership - Free Paint Job and Great Service

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:33:49 -0700

Nothing is worse than buying a new home and knowing that you still have to paint before moving in. Momentum Realty Group knows this and has come up with a great solution. We have partnered with an Orange County based painting company that is licensed, bonded, insured, and ready to take care of all of your painting needs. All you need to do is close a listing with us and we will foot the bill on any four rooms in your new home.

http://www.movetosealbeach.com/professionalad.shtml

http://movetosealbeach.com/

Call us today for a listing appointment and we look forward to serving you.

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Woodbridge - Irvine

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 03:12:16 -0700

The city of Irvine offers many choices of commmunities to live in, each with their own special amenities. That being the case, I thought it might be enlightening to highlight a different community each week. And what better place to start than the place I call home...Woodbridge!

The one thing that seems to separate Woodbridge from any other community in Irvine are the two lakes that bisect the community into what is known as North Lake and South Lake. Each of these lakes have a fleet of sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats available to rent for a minimal fee. There is also a beach club located on each lake complete with sand volleyball courts, barbeque pits, and a sandy beach lagoon for the kiddos. And, if that isn't enough, there are also 22 pools (6 adult only) and 15 parks located throughout the meandering streets of the community. As you drive around Woodbridge, you can't help but notice the family friendly amenities that are all at your disposal. From basketball to horseshoes and playgrounds to open grass areas, it is no wonder that Parent Magazine named Woodbridge, "The Best Place in America to Raise a Family".

I can't believe I almost forgot to mention the 4th of July Celebration! Here it is in a nutshell...Parade, 5k, 10k, and kid runs, carnival, lagoon festivities, beach chair bingo, volleyball tournament, canoe races, and a great firework show. This is by far the biggest can't miss event of the year!

*Woodbridge Irvine is also home to 3 California Distinguished Schools and is minutes away from Irvine Valley Community College, Concordia University and UCI.

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

Why Irvine??

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:40:46 -0700

It’s been four years since we decided to move back to Southern California and if there is one thing that I’m sure of it’s this…Irvine was the right choice! While some people like to bash the “master planned communities”, we have embraced all that the city of Irvine has to offer. From top notch schools to beautiful parks, to the perennial “safest city in the U.S.” label, I would be hard pressed to find a better place for a family to settle down. Couple all of that with falling home prices and low interest rates, and you have all of the pieces in place to make home ownership a reality!

Top U.S. High Schools - Newsweek 2011

University - #8

Northwood - #96

Woodbridge - #477

http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/features/2011/americas-best-high-schools.html

Safest City in the U.S.

http://www.businessinsider.com/safest-cities-in-america-2011-6#1-irvine-calif-13

http://www.tiptoptens.com/2011/07/16/top-10-safest-cities-to-live-in-america-2011/

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group

The Time to Buy is Now!

Mike Engeman - Irvine Real Estate Specialist (Momentum Realty Group) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:09:42 -0700

Has the bubble really burst? Should we wait a little while longer? Is it the right time to buy? Median prices are down in the O.C. and interest rates are unbelievably low. While some potential buyers are still holding on to the idea that we haven't quite reached the bottom, others are picking up some great deals and are enjoying the joy of homeownership. Check out this article and decide if you are ready to make a move!

In the city of Irvine, median home prices have fallen 13.8% from last year to $531,600. Couple that with a huge inventory of short sales and foreclosures and you have a market that is ripe for the picking.

http://lansner.ocregister.com/2011/10/18/o-c-house-sellers-take-12th-largest-price-cuts/135223/

Thanks,

Mike Engeman

Momentum Realty Group