Dan's Blog

First Time Buyers...How to market effectively

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:43:49 -0500

This is being written not as a suggestion but to spark conversation. I have seen and heard several people talk about how they get first time buyers yet I am watching many of them struggle in a buyers market. My question, (if you are willing to share) is what do you find the most usefull ways to attract and keep first time buyers?

Is This What the Future Holds?

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:06:16 -0500

I received a call today from a very good friend that said "I need help, Dan can you help me get out of this loan?"

The situation is he thought he had a 5 year fixed then adjust..it began adjusting after 2 years. He thought he had a heloc 2nd it is a hard money second. He thought it would adjust a little... it adjusted four (4) points and that is out of reach. Now this friend of mine needs help and feels completely betrayed by somebody we both know.

I want to help him and have begun working with him to hopefully save his house through dealing with the lender because of hardship. He is behind and part is due to a severe hardship he recently encountered...a heart attack followed by heart surgery! I am in touch with people who hopefully will help him save his house and get him to a position to get his payment back where he can afford it.

I am afraid this story is going to become very normal in the near future and we as professionals need to have answers for those that will be asking the question "how can you help me save my house?" what is your plan? How will you answer this question? What can you do to help? any and all comments are welcome!

Prayer request for my son

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 02:11:31 -0500

My oldest son is named Jordan and he is quite the football player...6'4" 275lbs and still growing. He is a senior in Hs and will be playing Div. 1 football next year. In his season opener (last night) he injured his right shoulder, the team trainer said it is a poss. rotator cuff tear and scheduled him for an MRI on Monday. He hurt it in the beg. of the 3rd quarter and played the entire second half not using his right arm. It is difficult because he loves to play the game but also because as a parent it is hard to watch our kids hurt and we do all we can to see them stay healthy and have every opportunity we can for their success. I would greatly appreciate your prayers for my sons miracle of having the MRI come back with no damage.

Thank you Jesus for your mercy and wholeness over my son!

Thank you all of you for your prayers for my son.

God loves through His people!

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 01:54:12 -0500

I have been gone for a while (busy with everything from business to the company to the family with 5 kids) and have not been in the rain for a while. I can't tell you what it meant to have Bob Sloop send me a personal note just simply being a brother and asking if all was well.

Just like in life we so often get so busy that we forget to touch base with those that touch, encourage and genuinely care about us. Bob- thank you so much for caring and making it clear that we really do need each member of the family. Have a blessed day!

A Blended Family

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 00:40:13 -0500

So often we hear blended families and how hard they are for all parties involved. I was thinking about my kids and came to this conclusion. I have two adopted children as well as three biological kids. The adopted two are milano (black father white mother) and at times the kids feel a little out of place but they know they are loved and completely accepted and part of this family! How is this different than the kingdom?

We all come from different backgrounds, different races and different cultures yet we are all part of one family. This is the kingdom and Gods will is to have his kingdom in and through our lives here so remember you are part of a blended family and your father, brothers and sisters love you!

How to Grow In Christ!

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 00:27:22 -0500

A challenge to start a life with Christ. We all know we are suposed to take time every day to spend with our creator. I recently made a challenge to the youth group that I lead adn that challenge is 10-10-10.

I have challenged each young person to spend 10 minutes in the word, 10 minutes in prayer, and 10 minutes giving thanks to the Lord! It is amazing what happens to ones attitude and self perception when they start giving just 30 minutes a day to the Lord!

When you cant afford to sale your house...

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 19:10:49 -0500

In todays economic situation there are several people struggling to make their monthly mortgage payment. According to a recent statement from C.A.R. mortgage lenders sent out 46,760 default notices in the first quarter of this year. What does this mean for the average home owner? If you are not directly effected by it you know somebody that is. Who is being effected the most and why? Those that have short term fixed mortgages that will adjust two to three years after receiving them will feel the largest strain on their lifestyle and finances. How can I help you if you have found yourself in this position? You don't have to ruin your credit before you consider what is called a short sale.

A short sale is when the lender recognizes the hardship of a home owner and agrees to settle the debt on a property for less than what is owed on that debt. There are several circumstances and steps to this process but it is more common than you might think. You are probably asking why would a lender allow a person to sale a house for less than what is owed on it? A lender is in business to make money by servicing loans not selling houses and when faced with the choice of foreclosure or short sale they will evaluate the pros and cons of both options very closely. If they feel they will lose less money buy doing a short sale they will be happy to assist in the process.

Do you have to be in the foreclosure process in order to qualify for a short sale? No, but there are certain things the lender looks for and I will walk you through each and every step of the process from the beginning to the end.

Where does your local Realtor come in to the equation? Not all Realtors know how nor do they understand the process of a short sale. It is very intense and very strategic in its entirety. If you think you need to or qualify for a short sale please contact me so I can evaluate with you and give you the insight you need to make an educated decision regarding your home.

What is a Real Estate Specialist?

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Thu, 31 May 2007 01:31:04 -0500

In todays market it seems that everyone is a specialist in something, but what make a person a specialist? I want to look at what I believe a specialist is. A specialist according to websters dictionary is a person who devotes himself or herself to one subject or to one particular branch of a subject or pursuit.

Understanding this there are several things that I have studied in life and do not consider myself a specialist in however Real estate I have studied, practiced and been active in for years and do feel that most have general knowledge but few specialize in. You see the definition states one that devotes to not knows about or learns something about. I have focused on and am devoted to knowing the real estate market in Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura, Ojai, Oak View, and parts of Oxnard. While Most of my business is focused in the Eastern Ventura County area I was raised in Ventura for over 21 years.

I am a specialist in the Ventura County Real Estate market and eager to help you buy or sell your next and every home.

Why Dan Allred for Thousand Oaks Real Estsate

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Mon, 28 May 2007 10:37:56 -0500

Every link below will take you to a page that explains in detail the benefit of using Dan Allred as your agent for your next and every real estate transaction in Thousand Oaks, Conejo Valley, Simi Valley, Moorpark and all of Ventura County.

http://www.danallred.com/list_with_dan.htm for sellers

http://www.danallred.com/free_reports.htm for buyers and sellers

http://www.danallred.com/concierge_service.htm for buyers

http://www.danallred.com/buy_with_dan.htm for buyers

I have an exclusive charity program that benefits the charity of your choice every time you purchase, sell, or refer a client to me. For the details of my exclusive Charity program call me direct or send me an email and I will contact you Dan@exitfamily.com

Top 10 Reasons to live in Thousand Oaks, Ca…

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Sun, 27 May 2007 21:21:09 -0500

10. Home of the United States 2004 Little league World Series Champions.

9. Only 30 minutes from downtown Los Angeles

8. Only 30 Minutes from Pacific Ocean

7. Some of the best restaurants in the state.

6. Economically sound anchored by companies like Amgen and County Wide

5. Some of the best churches in the world

4. One of the best School Districts in the state!

3. One of the safest cities in America

2. Some of the best weather in the world

1. Family Centered Community

...some of the close runner up answers...

People are extremely friendly

Great neighborhoods for kids to play in

Close to lakes and mountains for outdoor activity and exercise

Part of a great county

Great place for retirement

I live here

Thousand Oaks Living

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Wed, 16 May 2007 11:39:13 -0500

The city of Thousand Oaks has so much to offer people of every generation. For the young there are youth sports that are world recognized, there are museums such as the Chumash heritage museum, there is one of the best school districts in the nation but all this is only perks to living in one of the safest cities in the country! If you are a teenager you have an excellent public High School, a nationally ranked private school and never have to leave the city except to go to the beach! If you are a young adult you have CLU and so much activity it is hard to sometimes choose what you really want to do. For young families there are all of those things just listed and then great community groups and great churches in the community. For the middle aged there are several groups as well as activities for both the single and married alike. For the elderly there are community and church run programs regardless of what you enjoy you will find it here!

Thousand Oaks is a a great place to make and call home for anybody that wants to live in a safe bedroom community that offers a little of everything!

To see listings in Thousand Oaks click here

To see more info on Thousand Oaks click here

5339 Lindley Ave #207, Tarzana Ca.

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Tue, 15 May 2007 20:19:50 -0500

This maybe the best deal in the community! A beautiful 2 bedroom (could easily be 3) 2.5 bathroom 1 story condominium and is the best floor-plan in the complex.

With wood shutters throughout, a large spacious floor-plan and enough storage to hide almost anything this unit feels much larger than it is. Offering a formal living-room, formal dining-room, a family room, large kitchen and a private balcony with views! You will not want to miss this Lindley Terace special! Owner is even leaving most furniture in unit. Nice leather couches and much more! ALL THIS FOR ONLY $609,000

To see more visit me

5339 Lindley Ave, Tarzana, Ca.

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Tue, 15 May 2007 19:59:06 -0500

This is a beautiful 1 story 2121 sq.ft. condominium that has everything to offer.

Wood shutters throughout, hardwood floors in parts, large master bedroom with walk in closet and large second closet with very nice master bath including soaker tub and large shower. Second bedroom is oversize and has large closet, could easily be a three bedroom. With a community pool, spa, and rec room you will love the facilities. Great view from the balcony and so much to enjoy. This house has been very well taken care of and is move in ready. Owner is leaving almost all furnishings.

Life In Thousand Oaks

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Tue, 08 May 2007 03:17:39 -0500

What makes living in Thousand Oaks, Ca. so enjoyable and relaxing? After living here for over 10 years I have learned to enjoy several things about the community. In Thousand Oaks there is something to do for everyone in the family, from MOMS group all the way to assisted living for the elderly. Some of the things that makes Thousand Oaks so special is the fact that we have two malls and just about every type of restaurant that exists within a 20 minute drive from the heart of Thousand Oaks.

Being located just a short 35 minute drive from downtown L.A. and about 25 minutes from the sandy beaches of both Malibu and Ventura you have all the entertainment you could ask for a short distance away. In Thousand Oaks we have a Civic Arts Center which hosts some of the best Broadway shows in the country.

So are you looking to relocate and need help learning the city or the county, I have lived in Ventura County my whole life and would love the opportunity to show you the different activities as well as the different neighborhoods in the entire county!

Thousand Oaks...a place to call home!

www.DanAllred.com

Support your local Charity through my services!

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Sat, 05 May 2007 02:11:42 -0500

Are you looking to buy or sell real estate? Do you want to support your local school, church, booster's club or other 501C3 group? Then you need to call me to be your agent! I have an exclusive plan to give back up to $500 to the charity of your choice, in your name at the close of escrow every-time I am used as the agent to represent you as your exclusive listing or buying agent. For all the details call me at (805) 390-0418. Some restrictions apply call for details. "Meeting your needs today ...for tomorrow!"

www.DanAllred.com

216 Green Heath Pl. Thousand Oaks, Ca. 91361

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Wed, 02 May 2007 00:41:58 -0500

Great investment home or first time buyer with great views of the golf course and an end unit so only 1 neighbor. This is a spacious 2bedroom 1 bath that is 1199 SF. is in one of the best locations of the complex. With a community pool and spa you are only seconds from the best hiking trails in the Conejo Valley. For more info give me a call today (805) 390-0418

All this for $440,000

Freedom It is for you!

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Wed, 02 May 2007 00:22:45 -0500

Romans 8:1 "There is therefore now NO CONDEMNATION for those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."

Condemnation, it is not of the Lord and it is not healthy. The word tells us there is NO condemnation for those that are in Christ Jesus for those who walk according to the Spirit. If you are living your life led by the Spirit then you are not open to condemnation. The reason is simple, the Spirit brings the peace, love and life of God into every person He is living in! If you live according to the Spirit you live in the freedom of God and in freedom there is NO CONDEMNATION! Be blessed and have a great day today in freedom!

Affirmation, Affirmation, Affirmation

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 17:17:22 -0500

Affirmations, do they work? Are they really that important to do? I for one would say YYYEEESSSS!

I am a beliver that our hearts need to be persuaded of the truth and that truth is whatever you speak. For some people it is simply positive words to themselves about what they can do! For others it is much more than positive words, it is a way of klife that they aree constantly reminding themselves of. A way of life that must be on the forfront of your mind until it is a belief that is a natural reaction in your life.

Why a natural reaction? Because until something is a natural reaction or a subconscience thing we truly do not believe it. You might be thinking that is a load of poop! The reality is that if something is second nature it is not a natural action or response from us which means it is something we know but do not FULLY believe. In order to fuly believe something we must have our hearts fully persuaded of that thing. when I know something I can do it but when I am fully persuaded I don't have to think about what I am about to do it is simply a natural response to whatever is going on around me.

Affirmations: They persuade my heart of the truth thatI am speaking... for me these are biblical promises that a loving God has made for His creation.

Some of those are like this...

I am STRONG Eph. 6:10

I am Victorious Rom. 8:37

I am COMPLETE Col. 2:10

I am FREE from CONDEMNATION Rom. 8:1

I am LOVED John 3:16

This is simply an example of what I speak over myself in daily affirmations... you may not agree or like it but I will promise you that as you do these you will feel your heart begin to believe that you are capable of so much more than you are and you will see your life improve and business get better every day!

Buying or Selling in Thousand Oaks

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:17:55 -0500

Have you recently thought about buying or selling a home in Thousand Oaks? As a broker/owner, a resident of Thousand Oaks for over 10 years, and a life long resident of Ventura County I am an expert in Thousand Oaks Real Estate. For information on what to look for to be prepared to sale your home or buy a new home I will send you out the free reports of your choice simply for asking.

What makes me different than every other Realtor out their? If you are looking to buya home I have averaged finding my clients the home of their dreams on an average of the first 6-8 homes we look at. This is only accomplished by my research to eliminate homes that do not fit your criteria before we waste time looking at things that are not right for you. If you are looking to sellcall me for a free Comparative Market Analysis and a pre-listing package that will show you all that I do to sell your home for top dollar and fast!

I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you regarding your personal circumstances and situation in buying or selling your home. To see why I specialize in "Meeting Your Needs Today...For tomorrow" call me on my direct line I would love to discover how I can help you find the home of your dreams today!

Thousand Oaks, A Place to Live

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 11:08:36 -0500

Raising a family is hard enough without outside pressure. Adding violence, gangs, drug sales and the other stuff that comes with certain communities I am so thankful for living in Thousand Oaks. Thousand Oaks, consistently on of the safest cities in America with over 100,000 people in it, is a great place to raise a family.

With activities for every age group in the family and a newer youth facility, YMCA, and so many other things to keep young people active and off the streets Thousand Oaks has something to offer to everyone! Being located just West of Los Angeles County; Thousand Oaks is close to the big city but far enough away to have a small town atmosphere.

With two shopping centers and several smaller shopping areas, great churches, nationally recognized youth sports, and top 100 California schools Thousand Oaks is the leader in family environment and values. If you are looking to relocate and safety, family values and education are important, you owe it to yourself to see why so many desire to call Thousand Oaks home.

To see the MLS click on the link and when you want to see a home visit my web site or call me @ (805) 390-0418.

Santa Paula, Ca.

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 02:19:48 -0500

Santa Paula is a small town with a lot to offer.

Off the beaten path and surrounded by beautiful mountains with citrus farms all around you have an close nit community with a big heart for one another.

With many historic things to see and great architecture everywhere you look you will not notice you are only minutes from Ventura or neighboring Fillmore. Santa Paula is a great and safe place to call home, raise a family, and enjoy the wonderful people.

Welcome to Ventura!

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 17:37:43 -0500

Ventura is a coastal city nestled against beautiful mountains with opportunities for all walks of life. If you enjoy hiking through the mountains you will find Ventura to be a place you will fall in love with.

If you enjoy surfing, walking on the beach, ocean fishing or romantic evenings with the love of your life there is no place on earth with more activity all the time.

If you want a safe place to raise a family, Ventura County in a whole is one of the safest places in the country. If you are concerned with good educational systems, Ventura has several top 100 distinguished schools a Junior Colleges, and 2 four year university campuses within a 30 minute drive.

Ventura prides itself on it's laid back atmosphere and a feel of slow paced living in a big city.

With activities for the whole family, Ventura has some of the best sporting programs in the county and continues to offer family activities such as the annual statewide fair!

So the next time you in the area or driving up the beautiful 101 freeway stop by and see why Ventura is paradise on earth!

Ventura County Real Estate Specialist

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 16:08:11 -0500

Some people think that you can only know a lot about a city or a town. I am one that would think for most people that is completely true, however, I also think that your understanding or knowledge of somewhere comes from your affiliation or association with that place. That is why I am believed to be a specialist in the County of Ventura.

Ventura Pier

have lived in Ventura County my entire life, from Casitas Springs all the way to Simi Valley and just about everywhere in between. As a broker/owner I pay very close attention to everything in the real estate industry pertaining to what I consider to be my County! If you are in need of housing in this wonderful county, there is not a city and in most cases a neighborhood, that I am not familiar with.

Surfers Point Santa Paula Park

Ventura County is a place to be proud to live. From the rolling mountains that flow from Ojai through Santa Paula and Fillmore all the way to Los Angeles County line to the beaches that have beautiful sunsets to enjoy from the county fairgrounds to rock point in Port Hueneme. Nestled inside of the Channel Islands Ventura County offers some of the best surfing in the world. If you are looking to move across town or are relocating to our piece of paradise you need to contact me for all your housing needs in our great County.

Saticoy Church

Buyer Beware!

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:30:08 -0500

There is a great misconception going on about FSBO owners advertising that you can save money buying their house. The truth is that as a buyer you generally pay nothing to your agent to find you a home. Your agent has a fiduciary duty to make sure you are getting a good deal on the house you choose. You are not saving money by not having professional representation, the truth is you may spend several thousand dollars more by not having an agent that knows the area and the houses where you are looking to buy. When you are preparing to purchase a home it is most likely the largest investment of your life do not allow someone who has no interest in you to convince you to purchase a house without representation.

I am writing this for a couple of reasons, first because I do not want anybody to make a mistake when buying a home and secondly, because I did that very thing with the first house I purchased. I bought it from a FSBO and it was the worst purchase I have ever made. This experience cost me over $35,000. Before you make this same mistake consult a professional, we really can help and most likely save you thousands of dollars.

From Diapers to Diplomas

Dan Allred DRE#01761967 (Allred Realty ) — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:12:41 -0500

One of the most exciting times of our lives as parents is watching our children make right decisions. Today my family went to church and then in the evening we went to visit another church to support someone we care about. While there the pastor made some comments that just were not quite right, my son who just turned 17, said dad he is not quite right the word says this. He was right and for me it was quite the blessing to see my boy being able to recognize what was not quite truth and vocalize why it was wrong. It really made me much more comfortable to be able to send him off to college at the end of this year.