Angelica's Blog

Snow in Pacific Grove, Ca this Saturday 10-4pm

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:16:02 -0600

Caledonia Park in downtown Pacific Grove behind the Post Office will be covered in a blanket of snow & decorated with twinkling lights. Lots of wintry fun for all! Featuring Santas arrival on a shiny PG fire truck, Frosty the Snowman, Snow Queen, hayrides, petting zoo & lots of entertainment.

Hope to see you all there in the winter wonderland. Bring you family and your camera. This will be a fun event for all.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Snow in Pacific Grove, Ca this Saturday 10-4pm

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 07:22:29 -0600

Caledonia Park in downtown PG behind the Post Office will be covered in a blanket of snow & decorated with twinkling lights. Lots of wintry fun for all! Featuring Santas arrival on a shiny PG fire truck, Frosty the Snowman, Snow Queen, hayrides, petting zoo & lots of entertainment.

Hope to see you all there. Bring you family and your camera. This will be a fun event for all.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

RainCamp San Francisco California

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 07:03:27 -0600

This needs a re-blog! I almost didn't attend this event at the last minute. But it was so worth it. I now feel like I "get it"

Via Cathy Lee ASP, Danville, San Ramon CA (CL Design Services Home Staging):

WOW!! Brad Andersohn, with the family band, kicked off the morning with "Eye of the Tiger".

We were there because things are changing and we all want to be super stars!! Here are just a few of the many tips, insights and tools I learned today.

Bob Stewart gave us 15 free sites:

runpee.com

photosynth.com

namechk.com

wiggio.com

igetsales.com

archtelecom.com

facebook.com/ads

xobni.com

tr.im

su.pr

google.com/voice

goldmail.com

mailchimp.com

awayfind.com

archtelecom.com

Ben Kinney gave us the 5 top reasons mega agents blog.

1. To write articles people will find of interest

2. To Position themselves as an expert in a field or location

3. To successfully advertise or market a listing

4. To generate traffic and link to their website

5. To Blog for referral business

We learned the importance of blog titles, keeping them short, concise and geographic specific.

Ex: Seattle WA View Home

Blog Content rules are:

3-500 words, Start and end with key word phrase

2-4 outgoing links,Insert photo for user experiences

Tags are your "table of contents"

Twitter and Facebook explosion-With over 350 million people on facebook and 180 million on twitter it is essential to participate in social media!!. Be remarkable, Build Trust, Be Proactive, Patient, Execute.....

Just Do it!!!

Thank you for a fantastic day Active Rain Staff and Team!! Truly. Cathy Lee

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

16th Annual Stillwell's Snow in the Park--Pacific Grove!

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:55:28 -0600

16^th Annual Stillwell's Snow in the Park

Saturday, December 5th, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Caledonia Park in downtown PG behind the Post Office will be covered in a blanket of snow & decorated with twinkling lights. Lots of wintry fun for all!

Featuring Santa's arrival on a shiny PG fire truck, Frosty the Snowman, Snow Queen, hayrides, petting zoo & lots of entertainment. More information: 831-373-3304 or www.pacificgrove.org

Come and bring the family for a wonderful day!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Out of this? Try this!

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:37:17 -0600

When you´re out of an ingredient you may need for a recipe,
you might have other ingredients in the cupboard
that you can use as a instead.

Out of This?	Try using this instead.
allspice - 1 teaspoon	1/2 teaspoon cinnamon + 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
baking mix, such as Bisquick® - 1 cup	1 cup flour + 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder + 1/2 teaspoon salt + 3 tablespoons solid shortening (such as Crisco®)
baking powder	1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar.
bread crumbs - 1 cup	3/4 cup cracker crumbs.
bread crumbs, seasoned - 1 cup	1 cup plain bread crumbs + 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese + 2 teaspoons all purpose seasoning + 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder.
chicken or beef broth	1 cup hot water + 1 teaspoon instant bouillon granules or 1 bouillon cube.
brown sugar - 1 cup	3/4 cup granulated sugar + 1/4 cup molasses
butter	an equal amount of regular margarine. Do not use lowfat spread or light margarine for baking.
buttermilk - 1 cup	1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice + enough milk to equal 1 cup
chocolate, semi-sweet 1 square (1 oz.)	3 tablespoons chocolate morsels; or 1 square (1 oz.) unsweetened chocolate + 1 tablespoon sugar.
chocolate, unsweetened 1 square (1 oz.)	3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa + 1 tablespoon shortening or vegetable oil.
cocktail sauce - 1 cup	1 cup ketchup + 2 tablespoons horseradish (or to taste)
Confectioners' sugar	1 cup granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Process in a blender until powdery.
cornstarch - 1 tablespoon	2 tablespoons flour
corn syrup	Dissolve 3/4 cup sugar in 1/4 cup hot water. Cool to room temperature before using.
cream - 1 cup	3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter or 1 use cup evaporated milk
1 egg	1/4 cup egg substitute
flour, self-rising - 1 cup	1 cup all-purpose flour + 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder + 1/2 teaspoon salt.
garlic, 1 clove minced	1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon dry minced garlic; or 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder.
honey - 1 cup	1-1/4 cups sugar + 1/3 cup water
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon oregano + 1 teaspoon basil + 1 teaspoon sage.
ketchup ( to use in a recipe) - 1 cup	1 cup tomato sauce + 1/4 cup sugar + 2 tablespoons vinegar
lemon juice - 1 teaspoon	1/2 teaspoon vinegar
milk, whole - 1 cup	1/2 cup evaporated milk + 1/2 cup water
molasses - 1 cup	1 cup honey
mustard, dry - 1 teaspoon	1 tablespoon prepared mustard.
oil - 1 cup	1 cup melted solid shortening or 1 cup melted margarine
onion - 1 cup chopped	1/4 cup dry minced onion or 1 teaspoon onion powder
pumpkin pie spice - 1 teaspoon	1/2 teaspoon cinnamon + 1/4 teaspoon ginger + 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg +1/8 teaspoon ground cloves.
ricotta cheese - 1 cup	1 cup cottage cheese + 1 tablespoon skim milk
self-rising flour - 1 cup	2 tsp. baking powder + 1/4 tsp. salt + enough all purpose flour to equal 1 cup
shortening - 1 cup	1 cup butter or margarine.
sour cream - 1 cup	1 cup plain yogurt; or 1 tablespoon lemon juice + enough evaporated milk to equal 1 cup.
tapioca, as a thickener - 1 tablespoon	3 tablespoons flour
tartar sauce - 1/2 cup	6 tablespoons mayonnaise or salad dressing + 2 tablespoons pickle relish
tomato puree - 1 cup	2 tablespoons tomato paste + enough tomato sauce to equal 1 cup
tomato sauce - 1 cup	1 can(3 oz) tomato paste + 1/2 cup water
tomatoes, canned - 1 cup	Simmer 1-1/3 cups fresh tomatoes wedges for 10 minutes
vinegar - 1 teaspoon	2 teaspoons lemon juice.
whipped cream	Prepare whipped topping mix or use frozen whipped topping such as Cool Whip®
wine	1/2 cup grape juice
yogurt, plain (in a recipe)	Use an equal amount of sour cream

Some helpful tips if you are in a bind during this busy holiday season.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Don't Forget the Original Social Media

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 13:09:21 -0600

Via JL Boney, III Columbia, SC Real Estate (Russell and Jeffcoat):

During this day and age of faster than light Internet connections and so many places to maintain your Internet presence, it would be easy to lock yourself up in a little room and work on your laptop forever. There are countless sites that you can join, most are even free, that will help you stay in front of millions of potential clients and customers through the use of Social Media.

Without a doubt it's here to stay in one form or fashion, and more and more people are making use of it. I got friend request on Facebook a couple months ago from my Mother, so now I know that everyone truly is on there. I would think that any or all of these places, provided you use them correctly, can be an excellent addition to your business plan and marketing strategy. After all, you do want to go where the people go and obviously for now, the people are interested in Social Media.

But in the process of maintaining that online presence, try to remember the original Social Media. Actually going out in the public and meeting people. Your website is a fantastic form of advertising, so is your blog and anything else that you may have in your arsenal. But nothing will represent you better than yourself.

So don't forget to make the most of opportunities to go to parties or get togethers and actually meet people in person. Some of the best friend requests you'll ever make consists of walking up to a stranger and introducing yourself with a handshake.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________

JL Boney, III - Columbia, SC Realtor - Russell and Jeffcoat Realtors

I specialize in Columbia, SC real estate and the surrounding areas, including Blythewood, SC, Kershaw County, Fairfield County, and Lexington, SC. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home in Columbia, SC or any of the surrounding areas, I would love the opportunity to speak with to see how I can help. Thanks for reading and feel free to contact me if I can be of service to you.

Office- 803-788-1450 Cell- 803-730-9601 Email- jlboney@russellandjeffcoat.com

My Columbia SC Real Estate Website

My Columbia, SC Real Estate Blog

www.jlboney.com/columbiascrealestateblog.html

www.activerain.com/blogs/jlboney/rss

Subscribe to JL Boney's Columbia SC Real Estate Blog by Email

Lake Murray SC Homes for Sale

Forest Acres SC Homes for Sale

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Planning a holiday in Real Estate

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:05:23 -0600

This probably happens to every realtor at one time or another. You plan a vacation anywhere. You are very excited! You try to get all your business in order before you go. Don't leave any loose ends and you have someone to cover for you.

It never fails. The day before you leave you get a call or two. A referral perhaps. Someone wants to buy or sell a home.

You panic! You want to be there. But you are leaving for vacation. This has happen to me every time I have gone on vacation! It is actually great for business.

I am currently visiting my in-laws in Ohio. I didn't get a call before I left this time but I just received two referrals this afternoon via Active Rain! Yea!

Of course, I have learned not to panic and to handle my business and still enjoy my holiday!

THANKS ACTIVERAIN!!!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Salvation Army Toy Drive in Carmel, CA!

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:25:13 -0600

Next Monday, Nov 30, 2009, we will not be having our regular team meeting. Instead I hope to meet many of you at 11:00am to work on decorating our office for the holidays. This will be coordinated with setting up tables in the office hallway to collect toys and clothing for distribution to families in need.

This will be the 5th year in a row that Keller Williams Carmel has worked with the Salvation Army Holiday Toy Drive. They will deliver barrels, and we will set up an area where all our donations can be gathered. Please watch for sales and great buys at the local stores. All donations must be new items. Please do not wrap them since it is easier to know who to give the gift to, if it can be seen. Toys, books and art supplies for any age are welcome. Also shoes and clothing in all sizes, keeping in mind that many teenagers where adult sizes.

If you don't like shopping, but wish to donate money, our office agreed to collect cash, and then go out and buy toys. Our fund has already been started with a gift from Gerry Lukenas, of $100.00. Thanks to Nancy Saunders for organizing this event. www.californiacoastlands.com/

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

"I'm Your Friend, So I'll be Honest with you...!"

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 07:34:27 -0600

Via Jennifer Allan, Author of Sell with Soul (Sell with Soul):

Couldn't sleep last night. Got up, turned on the TV, flipped thru channels until I landed on HGTV. When I can't sleep, HGTV tends to be my go-to channel since they usually have SOMETHING on besides "paid programming."

Anyway, I got my first taste of The Property Shop with real estate goddess Tatiana. I'd heard that she wasn't exactly the warmest, fuzziest real estate broker on the planet... and, indeed, I doubt she's often accused of being a little ray of sunshine.

This particular show's overall theme was the difficulty of working with friends and family. Okay, fine. You have my attention since that's sorta what I preach about all day long.

The first storyline has Tatiana reluctantly listing an overimproved loft in the 'hood. For a friend. Said friend had been trying to sell the loft for a year, priced at $900,000. No luck. Location sucks.

Tatiana comes in and says two things that made me LOL.

#1 - "Since you're my friend, I'll be honest with you. You're overpriced!"

#2 - "Since you're my friend, I'll list it for you at $895,000, but if it doesn't sell, we'll have to... blah blah blah."

Call me fussy, but since when is "friendship" a requirement for honesty in a real estate transaction? And since when do friends let friends overprice because they're friends?

Maybe I'm just punchy from lack of sleep...

Subscribe to
The Daily Seduction
Tips & Inspirations to Generate Business from the Very Important People Who Know You

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

"Once Upon A Party" at My Museum in Monterey today!

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:27:40 -0600

Once Upon a Party
Sunday, November 22nd 5:30-7:30pm

The party planning company Once Upon a Party is turning ONE and will be celebrating their party at MY Museum! Join them for cake, raffles and giveaways! Make sure you dress your little ones up in a costume. Hope to see you there!

It's Free, but reservations are required! Please call 831.883.8591

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

"Turkey day toy drive"

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 07:06:31 -0600

Thanksgiving Day November 26 the Salinas Rural Fire Department will hold a "turkey trot" toy drive from 7-10am at the Creekside Terrace parking area of the Fort Ord Public Lands. Please come by and bring a toy. It is a great cause and makes so many so happy. All toys benefit the Kinship Center adoption programs. There couldn't a better way to start your holiday then to make a child happy.

You can also take a pre-feast hike, bike or trail ride and burn off some extra calories!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

"The Realtor"

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:45:17 -0600

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Wildlife at Las Palmas Ranch

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:35:18 -0600

The unexpected often appears as Angelica Blatt gazes out her window.

That's why Blatt positions her Nikon within easy reach. She can grab her camera, focus in and, with a snap, capture the moment in all its digital glory.

Blatt lives in a gated community off River Road.

From her house, she sees the winter moon rising and the valley floor silvery in the morning mist.

She also sees the silent migration of foxes, coyotes, deer and other natives as they crisscross the land.

In bitter cold, in hail and rain, the animals roam, seeking enough food and water to get them through the day and night.

Much of the wildlife drifts in from nearby Toro Regional Park. No fence separates those untamed lands from Blatt's property, and the animals move at will.

"Like this big bobcat," Blatt said. "It walked by my kitchen window and along the side of the house. I happened to have my camera on the table.

"I grabbed it and went out the door. I can't believe I did that."

Blatt, who has lived in her house five years, has seen a few tarantulas, too, and wild turkeys.

"And a huge king snake," she said.

Hawks glide through a nearby canyon. Quail hunch and rustle through the underbrush. Bunnies hop and stand on their back legs to reach and nibble little plants.

Blatt sets out feeders for hummingbirds, which dart and hover and stop, quivering a fluorescent purple and green in the air.

Like so many in Monterey County, Blatt and her family - she has twins 2 1/2 years old - live in a house on land that connects to expanses still untamed.

Monterey County is among the dwindling number of places on Earth where anyone hiking in a regional park or along the shore of the bay may suddenly encounter a spectacular natural moment.

Everything from whales breaching to dolphins feeding to the ghostly silhouette of a mountain lion crossing a trail.

One day at Blatt's house, a buck with antlers peered into her window. He was apparently curious about the two-legged creatures within.

"He wasn't startled," Blatt said. "He just sort of munched along. I got a really neat picture of that buck."

The bobcat that walked past her house sprinted down the hill once Blatt stepped out her door.

"My adrenalin was going," she recalled. "The bobcat looked back at me. I snapped its photo.

"I didn't even think about being afraid."

THIS IS A COPY OF AN ARTICLE THAT APPEARED IN THE SALINAS CALIFORNIAN AND OFF 68 NEWSPAPERS. MORE PHOTOS TO FOLLOW!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

100 things plus that agents do...

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:03:54 -0600

This is a list of over 100 things that I do or can do depending on the property to sell a home. It evolved over the years and certainly doesn't apply to every property. And, now with the internet...I think it needs to be revised. Your input is greatly appreciated.

1. Order a complete property profile of your house.

2. Review the property profile for accuracy.

3. Perform a professional "Competitive Market Analysis" of your house.

4. Review "Total Market Overview" with Sellers

5. Create a customized market plan that targets your most likely buyers.

6. Develop a specialized pricing strategy for your property.

7. Calculate an estimate of your net proceeds from the sale.

8. Provide you with a video on pricing your house for sale. (if requested)

9. Provide you with a video on preparing your house for sale. (if requested)

10. Tour your property from the "Buyers' Standpoint".

11. Conduct a complete "staging" analysis of your house.

12. Provide instructions to help your house sell at a higher price.

13. Review interior of the house to maximize attractiveness.

14. Assist the seller in storing large pieces of furniture.

15. Review exterior of the house to maximize "curb appeal".

16. Assisting in making the exterior as attractive as possible.

17. Integrate photographs into marketing materials.

18. Develop "soon to be available" postcards. (if requested)

19. Explain the advantages of seller carry-back financing.

20. Conduct a thorough and diligent visual inspection of the property.

21. Review the status of any encumbrances against the property.

22. Review the status of any property tax liens against the property.

23. Obtain copies of architectural drawings relative to the property, if available.

24. Obtain copies of permits relative to the property.

25. Measure the house.

26. Develop advertising copy for marketing.

27. Place house description in the Realtor Multiple Listing System.

28. Provide a "Real Estate Relationships Disclosure".

29. Provide a copy of the "Real Estate

Consumers Guide".

30. Assist with the completion of an Exclusive Listing Agreement.

31. Assist in completion of the "Agency Agreement Addendum".

32. Sign agent's portion of "Agency Agreement Addendum".

33. Review Flood disclosures, if required.

34. Review Lead Paint Disclosure requirements.

35. Review Competitive Marketing Analysis.

36. Explain commission splits between Listing and Selling brokers.

37. Review how commission split affects house showings.

38. Blank

39. Review benefits and drawbacks of using real estate lock box.

40. Arranging for pest control inspection of the house. (if desired)

41. Arranging for contractor's inspection on the house. (if desired)

42. Arranging for roof report of the house, as necessary. (if desired)

43. Arranging for septic tank inspection on the house, as appropriate. (if desired)

44. Arranging for county inspection, as necessary.

45. Assisting in evaluation of inspection reports.

46. Assisting in correction of significant items in reports, as requested.

47. Provide Sellers Disclosure Statement to seller.

48. Place professional For Sale sign on property, as authorized.

49. Place appropriate riders on sign.

50. Place brochure box on sign.

51. Place lock box on property, as authorized.

52. Directly contact agents with qualified buyers about the property.

53. Respond to agent questions about the property.

54. Respond to buyer questions about the property.

55. Design attractive color flyer for the property.

56. Obtain a report on academic status of local schools.

57. Prepare flyers for potential buyers showing financing options.

58. Prepare Open House Guest Register.

59. Assist homeowner in preparing home for showing.

60. Develop a convenient Open House schedule with owner or tenants.

61. Hold house open to the public, as warranted.

62. Conduct telephone cold calls to target market, as necessary.

63. Periodically update marketing program, as necessary.

64. Write advertising copy for various media.

65. Prepare press release for noteworthy properties.

66. Print color flyers.

67. Provide flyer display stand for inside the house.

68. Deliver guest register to seller.

69. Deliver flyers to seller.

70. Provide copy of MLS listing to seller.

71. For vacant properties, coordinate the use of rental furniture.

72. Order copies of Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions, as necessary.

73. Place appropriate information into Multiple Listing System.

74. Order professional photo of the property to be taken for MLS.

75. Conduct door-knocking campaign in neighborhood, as appropriate.

76. Prepare "Just Listed" postcards for potential buyers.

77. Mail "Just Listed" postcards to potential buyers.

78. Meet and show potential buyers the property.

79. Follow-up with agents who have shown the property to customers.

80. Follow-up with potential buyers from open house opportunities.

81. Canvas centers of influence to locate potential buyers.

82. Arrange for a tour of the property for all agents in the area.

83. Develop a program to attract agents to "Brokers' Open " tour.

84. Obtain other real estate agents' opinions of home pricing strategy.

85. Obtain other real estate agents' opinions of home staging.

86. Provide weekly status report to seller by phone or in-person.

87. Review local news sources for changes in neighborhood.

88. Place Open House advertisements, as appropriate.

89. Strategically place Open House signs to attract buyers.

90. Assist seller in confirming with Fair Housing Laws.

91. Provide refreshments for Open House guests.

92. Review results of Open House with Seller.

93. Pre-qualify potential buyers before offers are made.

94. Periodically review progress of marketing program.

95. Send "Thank You" notes to agents who show the property.

96. Keep brochure box filled with flyers.

97. Periodically update MLS information.

98. View all competing houses for sale.

99. Coordinate presentation of offers to purchase the house.

100. Negotiate with potential buyers in a

Professional, unemotional manner.

101. Review the financial impact of any offers with seller.

102. Write Counter-Offers, as necessary.

103. Make sure escrow is open in a timely manner.

104. Make sure initial deposit is placed into escrow in a timely manner.

105. Make sure deposit increases are placed into escrow on time.

106. Make sure that buyer applies for a loan with contracted period.

107. Provide access to property to inspectors, as necessary.

108. Make sure buyer can qualify for insurance.

109. Assisting seller in transferring utilities to buyer.

110. Assisting seller in moving to a new residence.

111. Providing keys to buyer.

112. Other miscellaneous activities that help a house sell.

113. Review Closing Statement with Sellers.

114. Deliver proceeds to Sellers.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Come to Las Palmas Ranch to live.

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:39:31 -0600

Come to Las Palmas Ranch to live. You will be surrounded by lots of natural beauty and lots of open space.

Currently there are 6 homes available for sale ranging in price from $290k to $909k of which 4 of those homes of short-sales..the market seems to have picked up. Earlier this year we had nearly 40 homes for sale. I think buyers have realized there are good buys out here and it is a great place to live!

I have lived at Las Palmas for over 10 years and in four sections of Las Palmas. We currently live in Prominence which has a total of 40 homes each one situated on 1 to 2 acre lots and is a gated section with

magnificent views of the Salinas Valley and beyond!

We often use the swimming pool to take the kids for a swim, get some exercise in the lap pool or just relax in the hot tub!

Set in the heart of Las Palmas Ranch II is the Buena Vista Middle School and Monterey County Library. Our girls love story time at the library.

You will also find hiking trails and lots of wildlife in the area. Las Palmas Ranch II is contiguous with Toro Regional Park.

So come to Las Palmas to live!

Please give me a call 831/406-1455. I am a satisfied resident of this brilliant community!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Clutter may be a buyer's best friend

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:48:44 -0600

Via Mike Carlier ABR CRS GRI (MarketLink Realty):

When counseling buyers, we discuss what is important to them in finding a new home. We also discuss what is important in getting a good home at a great price. In my opinion, three important traits of a potentially good buy are:

1. Overpriced. A home priced just out of its market range will get few showings and fewer offers. If the seller can afford tosell at a market, our offer may be the only one they see. There is a fair chance that, if the offer is presented properly, they will accept it.

2. Unusual paint colors. Any color that causes a potential buyer to focus more on the walls than the house will send many quickly to the next showing appointment. My advice to my clients is to expect to see, and learn to love homes with ugly colored walls. Much of your competition has moved on, and about a hundred bucks worth of paint will fix it.

3. Clutter. Wading through piles of the owners' "stuff" is annoying, and too much furniture makes the place look like an overstuffed dollhouse. The home looks unattractive, and it will be passed over by many potential buyers. That's great for us. Fewer potential offers put us in a much better bargaining position, and we know that all the stuff will be gone by the time we take posession of our bargain home.

Frankly, I love taking advantage of poorly prepared sellers. That's one of the best parts of my job.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Del Monte Center..

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:37:50 -0600

Del Monte Shopping Center Holiday Event!

On Saturday, November 21st, Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey will hold a free, very special holiday tree lighting event from 5pm - 7pm. The community is invited to come out and enjoy live holiday entertainment, delicious cookies, hot cocoa and a visit from Santa as he magically lights the holiday tree! This is a fun event for all!

Bring three cans of food for a chance to win a $500 Del Monte Center Gift Card! What could be better then that!

Please call the Food Bank at (831) 758-1523 for more information about this event.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Lets Say Thanks

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:53:04 -0600

This is an awesome idea! And a great way to say "thanks" that doesn't require too much of your time.

Via Ron Brown FHA & VA Home Loan Specialist (First Mortgage Company of Washington):

I just received an email from one of my past military borrowers who has a loved one in Iraq. I thought it was a fabulous idea worth sharing with all the good folks on Active Rain.

Xerox is sponsoring a Thank You card drive for the men & women of our armed forces stationed overseas this holiday season. It will only take a minute of your time, and will definitely brighten their day. All you have to do is visit the Lets Say Thanks web site, follow the 3 easy steps (give your name, pick a design, and choose a pre worded thank you message, or create your own), and Xerox will print and deliver the card to one of our troops.

It does not matter what your stance is on our politics, or foreign policy, these people are serving our country, and deserve everyone's support. From a completely selfish standpoint, this is a great way to get in front of your database in a positive way. Who knows, you might just get some business out of being a nice person.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Ideas for selling your home during the holidays!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:20:17 -0600

HOLIDAY HOME-SELLING IDEAS!

So you have decided to sell your home during the holidays! Welcome to the most magnificent (and stressful) time of the year--especially if you are trying to sell your house. What are your options to help make your sale quicker? You always have options and there are many which can help you sell your home faster. If it is vacant, this will be a little more difficult, but necessary to be sure.

1) Keep the holiday decorations to a minimum. If you love holiday decorations, try to pack most of them away to enjoy next year at your new home. Buyers don't need to be distracted in your house and some may be offended if they have different religious beliefs.

2) Keep a colorful doormat outside and inside the house to add color and reduce dirt tracked through your house. Make sure it is a friendly and inviting one.

3) Pre-pack all the unnecessary items. People have a hard time seeing the house through all of the "stuff" in the house. Your "stuff" is not staying anyway, so start packing!

4) Keep fresh-cut flowers in the kitchen to add some color and fresh smells.

5) Don't keep presents out in the open during showings. That can be too tempting for some buyers or their children.

6) Don't burn a fire in your fireplace, if it will not be attended the entire time. While fires smell great, they are dangerous, especially while unattended. The same goes for burning candles. Use fresh flowers or air fresheners...not too strong of a scent though. I recommend keeping the fireplace as clean as possible. Might depend on where you live.

7) Keep all blinds open and lights on. This is not the time to be cheap with the utility bills. A light, bright house sells. But make sure you close them when the showing is over.

8) Fresh paint is the best investment you can make in your home. Remember, keep it neutral and remove ALL wallpaper. Wallpaper is one of the biggest decorating faux pas you can make since most all buyers will want to remove it and they know how time-consuming and boring it is.

9) Play soft music during showings. Tune your radio/IPOD to an easy-listening station or easy-listening songs and keep the volume low.

10) Keep the driveway and walkway clear and shoveled, if you are in an area with snow. You want to make it as easy as possible for people to get to your front door, which, by the way should always be clean with the hardware polished.

I am sure there are many more helpful and useful ideas for this holdiay season home-selling. I also think selling your home during the holidays can be a good idea. Lots of sellers take their home off the market during this time to be home with family/friends and cook and entertain. There just may be fewer homes on the market to compete with during this time which can be very helpful to your sale.

HAPPY SELLING!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

My Museum upcoming events for kids!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:19:53 -0600

My Museum in Monterey is a wonderful place for kids to discover and learn! I love it and so do my 3 year old twins. We go every chance we get. This year the girls had their 3rd birthday party. The party room was perfect and the kids had so much fun they hardly could stop for cake and ice cream!

Home School Class
Thursday, November 19 9:30-10:15am
We have a great hands-on class planned for you this week, we'll be learning about light refraction with a camera obscura (otherwise known as a pinhole camera)! This ancient camera has been around since the time of Aristotle and is easy to make and fun to enjoy for our age group of 4 to 8 year olds!
Space is limited so please call and reserve your space today! 831.649.6444

Once Upon a Party
Sunday, November 22nd 5:30-7:30pm
The party planning company Once Upon a Party is turning ONE and will be celebrating their party at MY Museum! Join them for cake, raffles and giveaways!
It's Free, but reservations are required! Please call 831.883.8591

$2 Tuesday
Tuesday, December 1st Two Dollar Tuesday
This specially priced day is our way of saying "thanks" to Monterey County Residents for all your support. In an effort to make the museum accessible to our entire community, Two Dollar Tuesdays are offered on the first Tuesday of every month to Monterey County residents. Please bring current identification verifying your residence.

Members Only and a Movie
Sunday, December 6th 10:00am - noon
MY Museum Members Only
A GREAT Member Benefit. A quieter time for your children and you to play and a great time to meet other member parents. This Members Only Sunday we will be playing Frosty the Snowman at MY Theater!

Noon Years Eve Party!
Thursday, December 31st 10:00am-1:00pm
Members Only Noon Years Eve Party
Activities abound for members to play together on this special day! Join us for the countdown to Noon Years! Reservations are required 831.649.6444

Bring the Kids and Cake
Plan your next Birthday Party with us!

-Affordable Pricing
-Safe Environment
-Easy to Plan
-Perfect for kids 10 & under

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Follow-up to my four-berry pie..yummy

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:08:47 -0600

FOLLOW-UP TO THE FOUR-BERRY PIE RECEIPE!!!

Last night I prepared the infamous four-berry! My family could hardly wait the 35 minutes for it to bake. Once it came out of the oven...someone started eating it even before it cooled and burned their tongue..so becareful. Berries really hold the heat.

It is best served cooled with fresh whipped cream and perhaps a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Try it!

Here is the before photo. In my earlier post, I only had the after photo.

Send me your comments on the pie and photos please!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Fresh Pie and easy to make too...

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:16:21 -0600

This looks so good and is in the oven now.....I will keep you posted..

Via Anne Rains -Bethlehem Georgia Real Estate Agent (Real Estate Agent for Keller Williams, Atlanta Partners):

I love trying out new recipes and luckily last night I had the opportunity to as it was my night to bring snacks to my Small Group Bible Study. One of the recipes I attempted was this Mixed-Berry Crumble Tart and afterwards everyone said it was a keeper...so I thought maybe you would like to try this one out too!

Now, I forgot to take a before picture...but here's an after picture...it's nearly gone, so that's got to tell you that it's delicious. It's made from a mixture of blueberries, raspberries and strawberries which I thought was perfect for the summer time. And berries are really good for your body too--full of antioxidants and vitamins, which is great--okay, okay there's definitely some sugar and butter in this so it's not the healthiest but what can I say? I love the sweets!!

Ingredients:

Pastry for One-Crust Pie (You can use a store-bought pie crust)
1 1/2 C. sliced fresh strawberries
1 1/2 C. fresh blueberries
1 C. fresh raspberries
2/3 C. sugar
2 Tbsp. cornstarch
3/4 C. all-purpose flour
1/2 C. sugar
1 tsp. grated orange peel
1/3 C. butter/margarine, melted

Directions:

Heat oven to 425 degree F. Press pastry against bottom and side of pan. Trim any overhanging edge of pastry even with top of pan.

In large bowl, gently toss berries with 2/3 C. sugar and the cornstarch. Spoon into pastry-lined pan.

In small bowl, stir flour, 1/2 C. sugar, the orange peel and butter with fork until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over berries.

Bake 35 to 45 minutes or until fruit bubbles in center. Serve warm.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just a few little tips and hints. If you don't want to make your own pastry, it's perfectly fine to use the store-bought crust...nobody will be able to tell the difference. Also, since berries can be pricy, I bought the frozen ones. I found a blend of raspberries, blueberries and black berries and then also bought a package of strawberries. Let the thaw and then they'll be fine to use. If you don't want to use a tart pan, you can also use a regular pie pan as I did.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Pie for Thanksgiving

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:12:24 -0600

This looks so good and is in the oven now.....I will keep you posted..

Via Anne Rains -Bethlehem Georgia Real Estate Agent (Real Estate Agent for Keller Williams, Atlanta Partners):

Ingredients:

Pastry for One-Crust Pie (You can use a store-bought pie crust)
1 1/2 C. sliced fresh strawberries
1 1/2 C. fresh blueberries
1 C. fresh raspberries
2/3 C. sugar
2 Tbsp. cornstarch
3/4 C. all-purpose flour
1/2 C. sugar
1 tsp. grated orange peel
1/3 C. butter/margarine, melted

Directions:

Heat oven to 425 degree F. Press pastry against bottom and side of pan. Trim any overhanging edge of pastry even with top of pan.

In large bowl, gently toss berries with 2/3 C. sugar and the cornstarch. Spoon into pastry-lined pan.

In small bowl, stir flour, 1/2 C. sugar, the orange peel and butter with fork until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over berries.

Bake 35 to 45 minutes or until fruit bubbles in center. Serve warm.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

Mixed-Berry Crumble Tart Recipe

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:10:04 -0600

This looks so good and is in the oven now.....I will keep you posted..

Via Anne Rains -Bethlehem Georgia Real Estate Agent (Real Estate Agent for Keller Williams, Atlanta Partners):

I love trying out new recipes and luckily last night I had the opportunity to as it was my night to bring snacks to my Small Group Bible Study. One of the recipes I attempted was this Mixed-Berry Crumble Tart and afterwards everyone said it was a keeper...so I thought maybe you would like to try this one out too!

Now, I forgot to take a before picture...but here's an after picture...it's nearly gone, so that's got to tell you that it's delicious. It's made from a mixture of blueberries, raspberries and strawberries which I thought was perfect for the summer time. And berries are really good for your body too--full of antioxidants and vitamins, which is great--okay, okay there's definitely some sugar and butter in this so it's not the healthiest but what can I say? I love the sweets!!

Ingredients:

Pastry for One-Crust Pie (You can use a store-bought pie crust)

1 1/2 C. sliced fresh strawberries

1 1/2 C. fresh blueberries

1 C. fresh raspberries

2/3 C. sugar

2 Tbsp. cornstarch

3/4 C. all-purpose flour

1/2 C. sugar

1 tsp. grated orange peel

1/3 C. butter/margarine, melted

Directions:

Heat oven to 425 degree F. Press pastry against bottom and side of pan. Trim any overhanging edge of pastry even with top of pan.

In large bowl, gently toss berries with 2/3 C. sugar and the cornstarch. Spoon into pastry-lined pan.

In small bowl, stir flour, 1/2 C. sugar, the orange peel and butter with fork until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over berries.

Bake 35 to 45 minutes or until fruit bubbles in center. Serve warm.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just a few little tips and hints. If you don't want to make your own pastry, it's perfectly fine to use the store-bought crust...nobody will be able to tell the difference. Also, since berries can be pricy, I bought the frozen ones. I found a blend of raspberries, blueberries and black berries and then also bought a package of strawberries. Let the thaw and then they'll be fine to use. If you don't want to use a tart pan, you can also use a regular pie pan as I did.

Well, I hope you enjoy this delicious treat as much as we did! Bon appetit!!

It's a great time to buy a home in Georgia, whether you're a first-time home buyer or not, and I would love to walk you through this process. If you are in the market to buy or sell your home in the Bethlehem or Dacula area, I would be happy to assist you! My passion is helping people find their dream home and stepping them through this exciting journey. I serve the Walton, Barrow and Gwinnett county areas. Call or text me today: 404.357.2231!

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com

This is a test.

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:25:31 -0600

I am having trouble posting to Localism so I am trying from a different location to see if it my by my main computer.

Warm Regards,

tel.:831-406-1455
DRE:01248430
angelicablatt@gmail.com