Mike's Blog

“December Nights” in Balbo Park in Downtown San Diego 2009!

92101 Urban Living — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:12:19 -0600

Balboa Park December Nights is one of San Diego's favorite holiday event and this one is the 32nd one and starts on Friday December 4, 2009 at 5-10 pm and continues on Saturday December 5th from noon to 10 pm. All museums opens their doors free of charge from 5 - 9 pm both nights. This event is the largest free community festival in San Diego and is expected to attract more than 300,000 visitors.

Join the festivites and experience entertainment, holiday cheer, food from around the world, gift shopping, international choirs and musical and dans presentations. Downtown San Diego Condo and Downtown San Diego Loft home owners, residents and visitors can use the free shuttle service that take less than 10 minutes and drops of at 6th and Laurel Street and the San Diego County Administration Building at 1600 Pacific Highway. You can also take San Diego Trolley and jump off at the City College Station, Balboa Park is just a short stroll away.

Some of the activies are listed below:

The Prado Holiday Spirits Lounge and Hospitality Tent

Executive Chef Jeff Thurston from The Prado offers a meny for adults 21 and up and also available outside for all ages. The menu includes Kobe beef burgers, crispy green beans with blue cheese dip, The Prado's famous tortilla soup, and more. The Spirits Lounge offerings include The Prado's Sangria, Eggnog and Jim Beam, Kahlua Drinks, and Svedka Vodka Cosmopolitans. They will be serving from 5-10pm Friday and 3-10pm Saturday.

San Diego Gas & Electric, a Sempra Energy utility

A dazzling and energy efficient canopy of LED holiday lights will illuminate the Park for the entire holiday season. With a focus on energy savings and increased safety, SDG&E is offering free LED holiday lights in exchange for old incandescent holiday light strands. Exchange up to three light strands for an equal number of multi-colored LED holiday light strands. This is SDG&E second time doing this, to read about their first time in Seaport Village, please visit Surfin Santa arrives to Seaport Village in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego.

The House of Pacific Relations Cottages

Visit The House of Pacific Relations Cottages for food from around the world, a long time tradition, go to Sweden for "Swedish meatballs", Germany for "bratwurst", Ireland for "Irish Coffee" and much much more. To see a full list of cottages to visit please click on House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.

Santa Lucia

There will also be a Santa Lucia procession and the Museum of Man with traditional Swedish foods including meatballs, open-faced sandwiches, pea soup, rosettes pastries), hot chocolate and glögg (hot spiced wine). Annual Santa Lucia Procession is held at 6 and 8 pm.

Christmas tree

The icon of December nights is the historic Moreton Bay Fig Tree that will be awash with colorful lights that you can see from Downtown San Diego and surrounding areas.

My Ancestor's Village

The Barona Band of Mission Indians will contribute a unique cultural element to the events with My Ancestors' Village, the re-creation of a traditional Native American village within the heart of Balboa Park. Produced by the Barona Cultural Center & Museum, this tribute will bring to life the food, culture, and lifestyle that is unique Indians indigenous to the local region. New this year is story telling on Friday at 6 and 8 p and on Saturday at 1, 3, 5 and 7 pm. The Little Hawk Dancers perform on Saturday at 2 and 4 pm.

The San Diego Zoo Zone featuring Santa's Express Miniature Railroad & Skyfari

Enjoy spectacular views of Balboa Park December Nights and Downtown San Diego from the Zoo's Skyfari Aerial Tram Ride. All tickets for the Skyfari are round trips only with no on or off privileges on the far side of the Zoo, $4. The Zoo will not be open except for access to and from the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Santa's Express Miniature Railroad (near the Zoo exit) will take a 3 minute holiday ride, $2.

Art Studios @ Spanish Village Art Center

37 art studios and a courtyard full of regional artist display booths assure the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Handmade Christmas tree and photos with Santa on his throne. Artist-designed holiday wreaths and ornaments fundraiser sale. Kettle corn, hot cocoa and cider and live entertainment.

To see a full list of activities please click on activities.

92101 Urban Living has been a faithful visitor to the Balbo Park December Nights and it is just a great way to prepare and to get into the mood for the holiday celebrations. The Santa Lucia performance with its Swedish treats, is a big favorite!!

Neighborhoods in Downtown San Diego by Type of Sale in August 2009!

92101 Urban Living — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:09:56 -0600

This graph shows the type of sales that happened for Downtown San Diego Condos and Downtown San Diego Lofts in different neighborhoods in Downtown San Diego in August 2009!

Developer sales lead the way with 15 sales in the East Village/Ballpark District, 12 sales in the Cortez Hill District, 10 sales in the Columbia District and 3 sales each in the Little Italy District and Metro.

Resales has 8 sales in the Marina District, 4 in East Village/Ballpark District, 3 in the Gaslamp District and the Columbia District and 1 sale in the Gaslamp District.

REO sales had 5 in the East Village/Ballpark District, 4 in the Cortez Hill District and the Little Italy District and 2 sales in the Marina District.

Posssible short sales had 5 in the East Village/Ballpark District and 1 each in the Columbia District, Marina District and the Little Italy District.

“Solara Loft” in Downtown San Diego - Financing Options for Featured Unit Plan Q!

92101 Urban Living — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:07:54 -0600

Solara Loft is located in the Cortez Hill District in Downtown San Diego with easy access to two major freeways, Hwy 5 and 163. A short walk or trolley ride away is Petco Park, the San Diego Zoo, Horton Plaza, The Embarcadaro, the Gaslamp District, the Little Italy District, Balboa Park and everything Downtown San Diego has to offer.

Plan Q is a corner, South facing Downtown San Diego Penthouse with nice Downtown San Diego views and has a variety of options! Solara Loft's sales people is more than happy to answer any questions you might have. To see the floor plan please click Plan Q and to contact Solara Loft please visit their website here.

The featured Downtown San Diego Loft unit Plan Q is offered at $829,900 and below is three different financing options;

Kelly Johnson at Countywide Mortgage is happy to tell you more about rates and loan terms that apply to your situation, please contact her at 760-746-7388 or e-mail at kelly.countywide@gmail.com.

To read 92101 Urban Living's former blog about Solara Loft please click on "Solara Loft" in the Cortez Hill District - The New Definition of Ideal Downtown San Diego Living!

“Hotel Indigo” - Invests in Local Art Scene in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:19:11 -0600

To serve as the Brand's West Coast flagship at Hotel Indigo, the one of a kind external glass sculpture by Lisa Schirmer is to decorate the Downtown San Diego skyline.

Hotel Indigo located in the Gaslamp District has demonstrated its commitment to San Diego and invested over $300,000 in local art and is taking the hotel art to a new level.

"Indigo Waters," the 40-foot exterior wall sculpture made up of 33 hand-painted, laminated and tempered blue-colored glass panels is positioned on the western facade of the hotel between the 9th and 12th floors.

Chris Jones, general manager of Downtown San Diego Hotel Indigo said "Designed to mimic the waves and ripples of the Pacific Ocean when the sun hits the glass, our ‘Indigo Waters' sculpture will be a bright spot in the San Diego skyline and a visible moniker of our commitment to the local community' and "Our dedication to the arts will continue well into the future as we plan to host art shows and other soirées to spotlight local artists, musicians and causes that align with the Hotel Indigo brand."

Using locally inspired art and working with a talented team of local artisit, photographers and designers hotel Hotel Indigo has caputered the vibrant character and inviting coastal culture of the San Diego region.

"The idea behind the sculpture is to create a wavelike pattern of indigo colors by rotating and repeating square and quarter circle shapes on square glass panels," said Schirmer. The glass panels are arranged vertically in a Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13) in seven layers on a curved outside wall of the hotel. As daylight shifts, the glass will create a dramatic mix of color and movement; tasteful back lighting at night will create a new composition of colors.

In addition to the external wall sculpture, Hotel Indigo San Diego commissioned local photographer Ian Cummings to take photos of native plants and water driven imagery, including agaves, echeveria, California poppies, beaches, rivers, lakes and the ocean. These locally reflective images has been artistically applied to create large scale photographic murals that appears in guestrooms, the hotel lobby, Phi Bar and Bistro and public areas.

To read 92101 Urban Living's former blogs about Hotel Indigo click on "Hotel Indigo" in Downtown San Diego is Keeping Its Commitment to The Environment! , "Hotel Indigo" - A Petfriendly Canine Cocktail Party in Downtown San Diego!, Hotel Indigo in Downtown San Diego - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design! and Now Open! Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego!

To visit Hotel Indigos website please visit their website here.

Home First, Inc - Loan Modification Questions - Tutorial 4

92101 Urban Living — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:16:46 -0600

Home First is an industry recognized loan modification and short sale negotiations consulting firm and they are more than happy to help you with any questions you might have in regards to your Loan Modification.

Do I have to be delinquent on my mortgage?

As with most of the "rules" about modifying your loan, the answer to this question has changed quite a bit over the past few months. Traditionally, the Note Holder viewed on-time payments as indisputable proof of financial ability to pay, regardless of what the homeowner was sacrificing in order to make the payments, or how unsustainable that was.

The Past few months have seen more lenders using a previously untapped resource - common sense! We've been able to convince most of the major lenders to lower the payments of clients whose mortgage presents a legitimate financial hardship to them without having to damage their credit by missing multiple payments.

Do I have to have a hardship to get a modification?

Yes. As a general statement, a lender will consider a modification for someone who has both verifiable financial distress and no or little equity in their home. The term hardship is a pretty broad term that encapsulates anything which has caused a material change to your budget. Loss of income obviously makes it difficult to pay the same bills, but an increase in bills on the same income is equally difficult to budget.

Don't wait! Contact Matthew C. Scott at 858-581-6648, e-mail MScott@Home-1st.com or fill out a contact information form online here.

To read our former blogs about "Loan Modification" please visit Home First, Inc - What is Loan Modification and Why is it Important?, Home First, Inc - Loan Modifications Questions - Tutorial 1, Home First, Inc - Loan Modification Questions - Tutorial 2 and Home First, Inc - Loan Modification Questions - Tutorial 3.

The City of San Diego Wants a New Downtown San Diego Chargers Football Stadium!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:15:20 -0600

The City of San Diego and the Chargers have one particular spot in mind for a new Downtown San Diego football stadium. Just East of Petco Park is an 10 acre property right next to 14th Street, K Street, 16th Street and Imperial Avenue. This location would be ideal with plenty of parking, the San Diego Trolley within walking distance and a short stroll to Petco Park and everything Downtown San Diego has to offer!

To pay for the new football stadium, the City of San Diego Redevelopment Agency is getting help from a New York consultant to help them study on how to pay for it.

Sports Finance consultant Mitchell Ziets and Evolution Media Capitol LLC has been hired, a good sign that San Diego is moving along quickly with the plans and that the desire is on top for a new stadium.

Mark Fabiani, Chargers special counsel, says "that a Downtown San Diego stadium could be built for less than $800 million because parking, freeway access and public transportation already exist in the area." "It's what you do on any stadium project," says Fabiani "You figure out what possible sources of revenue are out there, from the stadium and from other sources. You try to cobble together enough funding to make it work."

Fabiani has said in the past that the team would be willing to spend $200 million on a stadium and that the NFL might be willing to lend the team an additional $100 million, but that revenue from ancillary development - including offices, retail and Downtown San Diego Condos and Downtown San Diego Lofts - would play a big part in a place where public subsidies are a tough sell.

A team of architects has visited the future spot in mind and says that building a new stadium there is not going to be easy but is quite possible. Stay tuned on a follow up blog as soon as the plans on the new stadium develops.

To read about the Chargers block party in the East Village/Ballpark District and the Gaslamp District coming up, please click on San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Block Party 2009 in the Gaslamp District!

Downtown San Diego Condos and Lofts Financed in the 3rd Quarter of 2009!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:11:55 -0600

This chart shows how Downtown San Diego Condos and Downtown San Diego Lofts were financed in the third quarter of 2009!

Conforming loans lead the way with 177 units (82%) and Extended conforming loans had 29 units (14%) and after that came Jumbo loans with 8 units (4%).

Total units financed was 214 out of 322 units sold.

To read 92101 Urban Living's other blogs about the third quarter click on Downtown San Diego Condos & Lofts Sold - Financing vs. Cash, 3rd Quarter 2009! and Downtown San Diego Condos and Lofts Sold by Type of Sale - 3rd Quarter 2009!

“Hotel Indigo” - A Petfriendly Canine Cocktail Party in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:10:04 -0600

"Hotel Indigo" located in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego has something not every hotel has, their own mascot! Rescued for the local animal shelter, someone who will always greed you with a big smile and welcomes your questions and concerns is the dog "Sadie"! When you enter the hotel, Sadie will be there to help you check in, and make sure your stay at the Hotel Indigo is a great one!

Every Tuesday until December 29th 2009 from 6.30 to 9.30 the Hotel and Sadie is hosting a cocktail event for Downtown San Diego Condo homeowners, Downtown San Diego Loft homeowners, residents and visitors and their dogs. The event is taking place on the 9th floor and your dog can take a swim in the dog pool and socialize with friends. Very tasty dog bones, snacks and bottled water will be served and for their mamas and papas, there will be cocktails from the Phi Bar and Bistro. One dollar a drink will be donated to the San Diego Humane Society and this is the place where Sadie was adopted from.

Why not take some time and have some fun with your loved little one and join Sadie for this Canine Cocktail Party!

To read 92101 Urban Living's former blogs about Hotel Indigo please visit "Hotel Indigo" in Downtown San Diego is Keeping Its Commitment to The Environment! , Hotel Indigo in Downtown San Diego - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design! and Now Open! Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego!

To read more about the hotel please visit their website at www.hotelindigo.com

Downtown San Diego Condos and Lofts Sold by Type of Sale - 3rd Quarter 2009!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:07:24 -0600

This graph is showing how many Downtown San Diego Condos and Lofts were sold by type of sale in the third quarter of 2009! Developer sales had a good start of as many as 160 units sold which is 50% of the total market. Resales were heavy behind with 66 units sold, 20% of the market. Slightly behing is Resales with 57 units sold, 18% of the market and last is Possible short sales with 39 units sold, 12% of the market. Total units sold were 322.

The sales for the third quarter was the highest of all quarters in 2009 with Developer sales staying high, Resales increases and REO's and short sales staying the same.

Tax credit is approved by the Senate through April 2010 and this is good for first time home buyers in Downtown San Diego!

To see another graph for the third quarter of 2009 please visit our former blog Downtown San Diego Condos & Lofts Sold - Financing vs. Cash, 3rd Quarter 2009!

Surfin’ Santa Arrives to Seaport Village in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:04:52 -0600

A special guest will arrive to Seaport Village located in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego on Saturday November 28th, 2009! At 1pm a blast of cannon fire will welcome Santa Claus. This time though, his traditional fur trimmed red suit will be replaced by a swim trunk!

The Port of San Diego, Seaport Village and SDG&E are joining together to ring in the holiday season. The arrival will kick off the afternoon filled with holiday music and live entertainment.

A free holiday light exchange will be hosted by SDG&E. Here you can exchange old holiday lights for energy efficient LED holiday lights. You can exchange three stands per person and good facts to know is that LED lights save about 90 percent in enery costs and last longer than conventional lights.

Downtown San Diego Condo home owners in Park Place, Horizons and Meridian and Downtown San Diego Loft home owners in Cityfront Terrace, residents and visitors come on down! There will be kids craft tables, strolling entertainers and music. Staff from Birch Aquarium will be ready to help children in making holiday ornament out of recycled materal. All the ornaments will be used to decorate a holiday tree donated by the Port of San Diego.

Santa will be back on December 19th and 20th, 2009 to have a special breakfast at the Harbor House Restaurant. Free, live musical entertainment will be provided throughout the month and more the more than 50 shops will provide a wonderful shopping experience.

For more information on the holiday festivities at Seaport Village, go to www.seaportvillage.com

San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Block Party 2009 in the Gaslamp District!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:02:48 -0600

Live entertainment, games, celebrity and player appearances from San Diego Chargers - who would want to miss out on this?

Downtown San Diego Loft homeowners in M2i and Park Loft and Downtown San Diego Condo homeowmers in Icon and Park Terrace, residents and visitors come on down and celebrate 50 years of phenomenal football.

San Diego Chargers is having the 50th anniversary Block party right in the Gaslamp District at 5th Avenue and J Street in Downtown San Diego on Friday November 27th, 2009 from 5-11pm.

Tickets cost $35 and will give you access into over 20 of the East Village/Ballpark District and the Gaslamp District's hotspots where you can get specials on Coors Ligth who is the sponsor of the event! You can get the tickets right here.

An introduction of the 50 greatest Chargers of all time will be announced by the current and former San Diego Chargers. Fountains of Wayne, Super Diamond and DJ Scooter will be performing live on two stages.

For more information about the party please visit www.chargers.com

Downtown San Diego Condos & Lofts Sold - Financing vs. Cash, 3rd Quarter 2009!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:00:32 -0600

Whether all cash, or down payments to reach conforming and extended conforming limits of $695,000, people are confident putting cash into Downtown San Diego Real Estate.

This chart shows Downtown San Diego Condos and Downtown San Diego Lofts sold in the third quarter of 2009, Financing vs. Cash.

Financing is leading the way with 214 units sold with a 66% of the market. Cash has 108 units sold with 34% of the market. Total units sold during this time was 322.

Home First, Inc - Loan Modification Questions - Tutorial 3

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:58:46 -0600

What is the upfront cost for a modification?

There is no up-front cost for us to assess your situation and determine whether you're a good candidate for a modification. This isn't to say we work for free, we don't, but we have never charged an Advanced Fee, we only charge for services that are performed.

What is your success rate?

I'd love to say it's 100%, because that would mean I don't spend time working on files without earning my fee! We are very proud of our success rate, which is over 85%, but it's due in large part to the amount of diligence we put in on the front end. We have very in depth, very candid conversations with our clients as part of a diagnostic process. I wish I could help everyone I talk with, but the truth is that even when someone is in need, they might not necessarily be a good candidate for a modification. With the amount of time and energy involved in each file, it simply wouldn't be fair to our other clients to just "throw against the wall to see what sticks". I know there are a bunch of companies out there that charge all their fees up front and on that model, they might not care about taking on clients who won't get a modification. But because we don't get paid until we perform, we simply don't have the time to play that game.

Don't wait! Contact Matthew C. Scott at 858-581-6648, e-mail MScott@Home-1st.com or fill out a contact information form online here.

To read our former blogs about "Loan Modification" please visit Home First, Inc - What is Loan Modification and Why is it Important? and Home First, Inc - Loan Modifications Questions - Tutorial 1 and Home First, Inc - Loan Modification Questions - Tutorial 2.

“Solara Loft” in the Cortez Hill District - The New Definition of Ideal Downtown San Diego Living!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:56:43 -0600

Thinking about becoming a Downtown San Diego Loft homeowner? Take a second and see what Solara Loft - the new definition of ideal Downtown San Diego living has to offer!

Solara Lofts is located in the Cortez Hill District in Downtown San Diego with easy access to two major freeways, Hwy 5 and 163. A short walk or trolley ride away is Petco Park, the San Diego Zoo, Horton Plaza, The Embarcadaro, the Gaslamp District, the Little Italy District, Balboa Park and everything Downtown San Diego has to offer.

The builder - Skandia is a Real Estate Development firm with more than 30 years of experience in all aspects of the San Diego Real Estate and construction marketplace and has built Solara Loft with current and furute amenities in mind to enhace homeowner equity over time.

With only 77 residences on 8 floors, Solara Loft is known to have a popular community feeling with a lot of features not found anywhere close by including;

Health club
Jacuzzi
Racquetball court
Day spa
Men's and Women's locker rooms complete with showers and saunas

A "Solara Loft" home will have all of the hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, granite and sophisticated finishes that you can expect from luxury homes in Downtown San Diego. You will be surprised by design elements such as custom sliding glass partitions, moveable kitchen islands and oversized Eurostar Tilt and Turn Windows. There is nothing else like it in San Diego. Below is a list of more features;

Between 541 to 1680 square foot
Extra storage available
Approximate price range: $400,000 - $900,000
HOA fees: $450 - $550
FHA and VA approved
2 parking spaces per unit (except studios)
Additional guest parking available
Designer granite tops
Upgraded stainless steel appliances
Cherry wood finished kitchen cabinets
Hardwood floors
Eurostar Tilt & Turn Windows
Ample balconies
Custom designer optional sliding partitions
Custom designer optional moveable kitchen islands
Penthouse level with 12 foot ceilings

Solara Lofts offers a variety of floor plans to choose between. They all have one thing in common, oversized windows and natural light. The interior spaces are open to take full advantage and optional custom sliding glass partitions can be used in many plans to create private rooms without losing the overall feeling of spaciousness. The design flexibility inherent in every Solara Loft can be further enhanced by the use of optional moveable kitchen islands. To see floor plans available please click on floor plans.

Are you interested to know more? Contact "92101 Urban Living" today! E-mail us at info@92101urbanliving.com or call 619-649-0368 or visit our website www.92101UrbanLiving.com

Want to contact "Solara Loft" please e-mail Contact@solaralofts.com or call 619-231-2400 or visit their website www.SolaraLoft.com

“Hotel Indigo” in Downtown San Diego is Keeping Its Commitment to The Environment!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:54:02 -0600

Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego is keeping its promise to the environment by being a green building and has developed practices into the design, construction and operation of the hotel. Hotel Indigo opened up its doors in August 2009 and is the first hotel to be LEED certified in Southern California. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

The hotel is located on 509 9th Avenue in Downtown San Diego just across the street from Park Loft and a short stroll away from Petco Park.

Hotel Indigo is the:

First sustainably-built hotel in San Diego
First hotel in San Diego to achieve LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council
One of only 7 LEED-certified hotels in California and one of 19 LEED-certified hotels in the U.S.
First Downtown San Diego building to have a green roof
First LEED-certified hotel in the U.S. for InterContinental Hotels Group

Green Features:

Constructed hotel on previously developed site; implemented waste management plan to recycle non-hazardous materials and divert waste from city landfills
Located in dense urban area within walking or cycling distance to public transportation (San Diego Trolley, buses, harbor ferry), housing, retail and entertainment options
Green roof on 9th and 12th floors with native species of drought-tolerant plants to help reduce heating and air conditioning costs and filter storm water
Runoff; herbs grown in 9th floor Phi Bar Terrace herb garden to be used in menu items at Phi Bar and Bistro
On-site recycling program, including Phi Bar and Bistro pantry recycling/composting on roof
Adoption of eco-friendly food and beverage containers, either paper or recycled corn plastic
Improved indoor air quality due to no smoking policy and quality ventilation systems
Low VOC paints, coatings, sealants, adhesives, and carpet used for better indoor air quality
Design allows for ample natural day lighting to help optimize energy efficiency
Reserved parking spaces and parking discounts for guests who drive low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles
Preferred parking for employees that car pool; bike racks and shower facilities for those who bike to work, reducing reliance on fuel and parking spaces

Downtown San Diego Condo homeowners in The Mark and Diamond Terrace and Downtown San Diego Loft homeowners in M2i and Fahrenheit and San Diego visitors take the change to experience something new, visit Hotel Indigo for breakfast, lunch, dinner or the Phi Terrace for an evening cocktail to enjoy the breathtaking views over Downtown San Diego.

To read our former blogs about Hotel Indigo please visit Hotel Indigo in Downtown San Diego - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design! and Now Open! Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego!

To visit the hotels website please visit Hotel Indigo.

New Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego- Ruocco Park - Located North of Seaport Village!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:51:18 -0600

The new waterfront park, Ruocco Park, is to be located just North of Seaport Village in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego.

The design concept includes:

Variety of trees
A water and evergy conservation
Open spaces for events and activities
Quiet, contemplative areas

Right next to Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, just a short walk from the Gaslamp District, Ruocco Park will be a 3.3 acre urban oasis where the once seafood restaurant and market used to be located. The empty buildings are to be demolished! Perfect little get away for Downtown San Diego Condo and Loft homeowners in Park Place, Pacific Terrace and Harbor Club located just a short stroll away from the park!

The Port of San Diego held its third meeting on Nov, 2nd 2009 in regards to the parks design. The public was able to see how their suggestions where incorporated. The architect of the Ruocco Park, Dennis Otsuji, presented new renderings which depicted many of the suggestions mad by the public at previous meetings.

Next step to get Ruocco Park started is to present it to the Board Port Commissioners and to get approval for December 1st, 2009. If everything goes according to plan, construction can start in early 2011 and take about one year to finish!

Panoramic Western Views from Pinnacle #2601 in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:48:11 -0600

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Home #2601 in Pinnacle located in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego has 2 bedrooms + a den with 2 1/2 baths. This Downtown San Diego Condo has hardwood floors in entry hallway, living room, den, kitchen and carpet in bedrooms. Panoramic Western views from the balcony, master bedroom, kitchen and living room over the Pacific Ocean, Coronado Bridge, San Diego Bay and Downtown San Diego! The kitchen has stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops and opens up towards the den and the living room. $6,000/month furnished! Available now!

The Pinnacle: This building rises 450 feet into the San Diego Skyline to 35 stories. The complex was completed in late 2005 by Pinnacle development, and features dramatic glass and concrete architecture. The first impression of the complex is first set when entering the Grand Lobby, a stone and marble space filled with overhead natural light where a welcoming concierge greets you by name and verifies all visitors. The complex features street level retail and houses the brand new San Diego's Children's Discovery Museum. Each home was designed to have the elegance and fell of a Downtown San Diego Penthouse!

Pinnacle amenities include:

Pinnacle is known for residents' clubs and amenities.
95' outdoor lap pool that opens onto a secured and gated outdoor pool deck
Fully equipped Fitness center with men's and women's locker rooms
Spa, sauna, and steam rooms
Club rooms offer a media lounge with large screen cinema, billiards and games, plus a private guest suite
State of the art business center
Full time luxury concierge staff and security
Underground and separate bike storage
Six High speed elevators
Ceiling heights at The Pinnacle range from 10' to 12'
Many residences are 2000 square feet with terrace-sized balconies
Every home feels like a penthouse
Granite, marble, imported ceramic, polished chrome, brass, and designer-quality carpet
Opulent ensuites and bathrooms have deep jetted soaker tubs, separate showers finished in tile and glass, full width vanity mirrors, and imported ceramic tile surrounds
Designer kitchen with granite or marble countertops offers top-of-the-line appliances, gas cooktops and built-in ovens
Every living room has a fireplace, handsomely framed with a granite and marble mantel and hearth
The Pinnacle is a secured and technologically advanced building
Entrances are monitored and controlled by 24-hour concierge services
Access doors are controlled throughout all public areas
Secured, well-lit underground parking is monitored by video
The Pinnacle is connected directly to this backbone of the Internet with each home pre-wired for high-speed Internet access, as well as being pre-wired for cable television outlets - the precursor connections of convergence technologies for in-home communication systems

To see our ad on Craigslist please click here and to see our ad on San Diego Reader please click here. To see another Downtown San diego Condo for rent please visit Want to Become a Downtown San Diego Condo Renter in ICON in The East Village/Ballpark District. Check This Out!

For more information call Pete at 619-857-2289 or email pete@92101urbanliving.com

Home First, Inc - Loan Modification Questions - Tutorial 2

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:45:42 -0600

How long is the Loan Modification process?

It varies with the complexity of the file, and the backlog with both the Servicer and Investor. I've literally gotten clients terms in a week, and there have been others for whom I've battled for over six months. Each client has a unique set of circumstances, and we've always felt that their family deserves whatever time it takes to craft the very best modification for their situation.

What are the typical results?

The result is a payment that fits within the client's budget so that they can stay in their home. Whether the terms are 2% rate for 40 years, 5% interest only, 4% but deferring 25% of the principle balance, or any of a hundred other formulations, the target is always the same - the lowest possible payment for our client. The recipe itself is determined by the investor and what they want to do with that segment of their portfolio.

Don't wait! Contact Matthew C. Scott at 858-581-6648, e-mail MScott@Home-1st.com or fill out a contact information form online here.

To read our former blog please visit Home First, Inc - What is Loan Modification and Why is it Important? and Home First, Inc - Loan Modifications Questions - Tutorial 1

Featured Property: 23rd floor penthouse level corner unit #2301 in ICON with UNOBSTRUCTED FLOOR-TO-CEILING Northeast views in the East Village/Ballpark District!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:56:53 -0600

Make a Smilebox slideshow

This is 92101 Urban Living's new featured property: 23rd floor Downtown San Diego Penthouse level corner unit with UNOBSTRUCTED FLOOR-TO-CEILING Northeast views overlooking the mountains with peek balcony views of the Coronado Bridge. Located in the heart of East Village/Ballpark District, this 2 bed/2 bath has wood flooring in the kitchen, stainless appliances and granite counters throughout. Community amenities include the ONLY Downtown San Diego rooftop "Skybox" deck looking into Petco Park, a large fitness center, a 14 seat movie theatre and community room.

To see more pictures please click on this gallery.

ICON: located in the heart of the East Village encompassing an entire city block bound by 10th, 11th, J Street and K Street. A superb location with Petco Park on one side, and the new San Diego Public Library development site on the other. ICON has two entrances: 321 10th Ave, and 350 11th Ave. Finished in January of 2007, the developers Levin/Menzies went to great lengths to make this one of the most unique and desirable complexes in all of Downtown San Diego. The ICON complex is comprised of Four Buildings of all concrete construction: Building 1 is 26 stories, Building 2 is 11 stories, Building 3 is 9 stories, and Building 4 is 5 stories. The four buildings surround a perfectly landscaped interior courtyard that features original sculpture art, and waterfall features. The interior courtyard gives the complex an intimate community feeling. Even though there are 327 units, you still feel well connected to your neighbors. The building projects like ICON, Diamond Tower, and Park Terrace were all just completed in 2007. The street level retail that goes in to those spaces will really define the infrastructure of the neighborhood. These completed and fully occupied spaces will greatly add to the value of the price per square foot of the ICON complex.

ICON amenities include:

Wood flooring standard in kitchen
Easy-care Coronet carpet standard in bedrooms and living areas
Designer-selected color palette for each Interior Finish Scheme
KitchenAid Architect Series stainless steel appliances
Wood-grain laminate cabinetry
Slab granite countertops and 4" backsplash
Porcelain or engineered marble bath flooring
Double vanities in master baths with custom, floating backlit mirror treatment
Exposed interior concrete structural elements
9' ceiling heights in flats and townhomes, and dramatic 14' - 16.5' elevations in lofts and live/work spaces
Interior laundry hook-ups
Thermostatically controlled individual heating and A/C
Spacious covered terraces
Four distinct and vibrantly colored towers with unique architectural designs and lifestyle options
Dramatic clerestory roof lines on two of the four buildings
Open-air lobby at 11th Avenue entrance
Dynamic retail, commercial and live/work venues on the ground floor
Icon Skybox viewing terrace overlooking PETCO Park, exclusively for Icon residents
Courtyard-level 5th Inning Lounge available to Icon residents for meetings, special events, community activities, etc.
Icon Theater with raised seating and a state-of-the-art audio/visual & gaming system
Fitness Studio for all levels of co-ed fitness training and conditioning
San Diego's first 60-foot sculpture by renowned artist Ned Kahn-that captures the look-and-sound of softly cascading water
Two controlled-access lobbies with community attendant staffing and on-site facilities manager
Controlled-access subterranean garage & off-street loading docks
Convenient trash chutes on each residential floor
World-class San Diego Main Library facility proposed at 11th and J Street
Exciting restaurants, entertainment and shopping in the Ballpark District and the Gaslamp District
San Diego Trolley just one block away for easy, safe and fun transportation
MLK Promenade, Embarcadero, Marina and Urban Art Trail within steps of your front door

For more information please contact Pete at 619-857-2289 or email pete@92101urbanliving.com

Home First, Inc - Loan Modifications Questions - Tutorial 1

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:53:43 -0600

Home First is an industry recognized loan modification and short sale negotiations consulting firm and they are more than happy to help you with any questions you might have in regards to your Loan Modification.

Can I do "Loan Modification" myself?

Modification are done by homeowners all the time. The problem is that the term "modification" can mean anything from changing the interest rate by .5%, adding delinquent payments to your loan balance, or changing your payments by a few dollars. The goal for most homeowners when attempting to modify is to get into a payment that makes financial sense for them to stay in the home long term. When dealing with such a huge financial responisbility, you want to make sure that you are working with someone who will make your first and only attempt at this a succesful one with results that are worth your efforts.

Why should I use Home First's services?

Home First has been successfully negotiating loss mitigation for homeowners for over three years, well before every loan officer, lawyer, debt collector and used car salesman decided to advertise their services on Craigslist. They have negotiated over 1,500 loans and saved their clients in excess of $10,000,000. They have spent years learning what not only the guidelines are for the various investors, but where the limits are, what works and what doesn't. They have been involved in this industry from the beginning, and their relationships in the Loss Mitigation Departments at the banks is unrivaled. Their clients benefit from both Home First's expertise and their relationships. In short, even though the modification process is neither quick nor easy, they can get your modification done quicker and easier than you can, and you are assured of getting the best result possible. The cost of a failed loan modification is simply too great for most responsible homeowners to leave in the hands of rookies.

Don't wait! Contact Matthew C. Scott at 858-581-6648, e-mail MScott@Home-1st.com or fill out a contact information form online here.

To read 92101 Urban Living's former blog about Loan Modification please visit Home First, Inc - What is Loan Modification and Why is it Important?

Take Advantage of The Extended “First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit” in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:51:38 -0600

Senators agreed Wednesday October 28th, 2009 to extend the popular tax credit for first time homebuyers and to offer a reduced credit of up to 6,500 to repeat buyers who have owned their current homes for at least five years. The credit passed earlier this year as part of President Obama's stimulus bill. It was supposed to expire the end of November but lawmakers will extend it through April.

The tax credit provides up to $8,000 to first time homebuyers.The Commerce Department said that new home sales fell 3.6 percent in September, and some industry representatives blamed uncertainty about the tax credit.

Want to become a Downtown San Diego Condo or Downtown San Diego Loft homeowner in Downtown San Diego? Take advantage of the extended first time home buyer tax credit.

315,000 first time homebuyers across the country took advantage of the $8,000 tax credit, 42,304 of them were first time homebuyers in California.

To read more about the home buyer tax credit please visit The State of California.

To read our former blogs please click on San Diego is One of the 10 Top Most Desirable Places to Buy a Home! and FAQs About the State New-Home Buyer Tax Credit.

Home First, Inc - What is Loan Modification and Why is it Important?

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:49:14 -0600

A Loan Modification is a way to renegotiate your current mortgage in your Downtown San Diego Condo or Loft allowing you to maintain or repair your credit. Many aspects of your mortgage can be changed to your benefit, including the term of the loan, interest rate, balance of principle and monthly payments. It's even possible to have late fees waived.There are many opportunities opened through loan modification and each home owner's situation is unique. A large number of Downtown San Diego homeowners will use loan modification to prevent foreclosure on their home.

Home First can help save your home and your credit! For anyone who is unable to make their monthly payments, or is in danger of being buried under a past due balance, Home First's skilled negotiators will contact your lender on your behalf to renegotiate the terms of your loan.

Home First is an industry recognized loan modification and short sale negotiations consulting firm. Their clients range from distressed homeowners seeking guidance to investment bankers utilizing their strategic portfolio enhancement platforms. Home First is a collective of diverse industry leaders unified by the vision of providing sound, equitable results for the consumer, community, servicer, and lender.

Most government programs have proven themselves to be inefficient and costly, with little or no positive results. Home First has built relationships with lenders that have translated to increased efficiency and beneficial results for both their clients and the lenders. They continue to strive to provide viable solutions to the foreclosure crisis.

Home First support and wish the best success for most government and banking plans; however, more than 90% of their clients have tried working with their lenders directly, attorneys, HOPE, and other government agencies with little or no results.

More than 85% of Home First's clients have come through direct referral. No wonder why Home First is the company homeowners, realtors, CPA's, local agencies, community leaders, and business partners prefer to get real, fair results. They work with and often challenge the lenders to provide the most equitable result for all parties involved.

Don't wait! Contact Matthew C. Scott at 858-581-6648, e-mail MScott@Home-1st.com or fill out a contact information form online here.

Featured Property: Protected Water Views of Bay, Coronado Bridge, Ocean, City, Ballpark & Fireworks Views from Horizons South Tower in Heart of Marina District!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:31:37 -0500

This is 92101 Urban Living's new featured property: "Protected Water Views of San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, Pacific Ocean, City, Ballpark & Fireworks Views from Horizons South Tower in Heart of Marina District!"

This Downtown San Diego Condo is a 2 bed/2 bath SOUTH EAST corner home with private balcony shielded from wind. All-wood & tile flooring, granite counters & stainless appliances. Horizons amenities include pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, community function rooms & meeting spaces. Flat screen & chandelier over fireplace excluded from sale.

Just a short stroll away is the Gaslamp District, Seaport Village, San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park and everything Downtown San Diego has to offer!

To see more pictures please visit: http://www.brenthaywood.com/gallery/10064323_3KjBv

Horizons' twin towers are landmarks in the Downtown San Diego skyline. Horizons is bordered by Market Street, Island Avenue, First Avenue and Front Street and is a short walk from the bay, seawall, beaches, parks, business core, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Built and Developed by BOSA, the complex is luxury concrete construction, and was completed in 2001. The spectacular concrete towers open toward an inner courtyard of lush greenery and inspiring waterfalls that together create a sense of sophistication, privacy, and peace. While residences vary in size from 1036 sq. ft. one-bedrooms to 2918 sq. ft. penthouses, they all feature superior craftsmanship and quality, typical of BOSA developments. HOA dues are on the luxury level with amenities which include: lap pool, 24 hour security, gated community with concierge station at complex entrance, community rooms, and a fully equipped fitness center. Homeowners and residents of Horizons are very proud of their complex. They love the central location and luxury living features. All units are well appointed, and feature either city or bay views depending on floor and orientation.

Horizons amenities include:

Lush landscaping
Entranceway from Front Street complete with the soothing sounds of a central water feature
Elegant lobbies
Entertainment-sized balconies, patios and roof decks
Hardwood flooring in entry, kitchen, living, dining and hallways
Bedroom carpet in rich/neutral hues
Nine foot ceilings (in most areas)
Solid core, 7′ 3″ high interior doors
Customized French doors to dens
Gas Fireplaces with slab limestone surround & wood grain mantelpiece
Expansive full-height windows that draw in the spectacular views
Roller shade window coverings
Duel Control Central air conditioning separate for Living and Bedrooms
Maytag stacked laundry system
Double Pane Windows
Two High Speed elevators
Central water softener system
Closed-circuit cameras and full time security attendants provide 24-hour surveillance around the building and complex grounds
Gated subterranean and deeded parking for residents
Resident-only access to main entrances, subterranean parking, recreation and amenity areas
Individual and deeded storage lockers in the Parking Area
Separate and secured Bicycle storage in Parking Area
Full Time Community Attendants and Concierge on site

For more information please contact Pete at 619-857-2289 or email pete@92101urbanliving.com

San Diego Bay - Eco Friendly Efforts and Achievements in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:13:00 -0500

The Port of San Diego is hereby showing a map where eco friendly efforts and achievements along San Diego Bay including Downtown San Diego has been taking place. The Green Port Program goal is to focus on environmental benefits in six key areas:

Water
Energy
Air
Waste management
Sustainable development
Sustainable business practices

Some of the accomplichments have been installing solar panels on rooftops, landscaping with water wise plants, constuction on the LEED-certified Broadway Cruise Ship Terminal and more.

To see detailed data and landmarks located any place on earth you can use the freely available Google Earth. You can also learn more about animals and plants that live in San Diego Bay on The Port Of San Diego website. Click here to download the applications and start exploring!

To read more about Eco Friendly achievements please visit Port of San Diego.

"It's a Urban Dog's Life" Written by Kevin "The Food Dude" Roberts!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:10:44 -0500

92101 Urban Living is fortunate to present a guest blog by the East Village's own Food Dude...Kevin Roberts. A similar piece will be featured in the next month issue of The Downtown San Diego News. In addition to being a Downtown San Diego Loft owner in the M2i Complex; The Food Dude is executive chef of the successful East Village Tavern and Bowl, author of several cookbooks, and an accomplished TV and Radio Chef Personality seen on The Food Network, and Today Show.

"It's a Urban Dog's Life"
Written by Kevin "The Food Dude" Roberts

I bought a puppy! Not just any puppy. I did my research, months upon months of looking and pondering and thinking, What would be the best dog suited to my urban lifestyle? I would walk down the street doing re-con type missions and seeing what other dogs people had. One guy had a great dane, a horse basically, and all I kept visualizing is coming home to my 1 bedroom apartment and seeing the utter destruction afflicted by that enormous dog. I saw a girl with a Chihuahua. Not sure why it yaps and shakes all the time, but probably not the manliest dog for me. I settled on a French Bulldog.

From what I've read, they are used to small apartments being from France and all, low maintenance and basically lazy. Now that's my type of dog. I can go to work, travel and still have a life. But what they didn't tell me was the constant crying, shitting and peeing I am now enduring on a constant basis. I call it the trifecta of doom. Then my breeder dropped a bomb-shell on my nomadic world. Stinky, my dogs new name, cant leave the apartment for another 3 weeks until she's had her last Parvo shots. 3 weeks!?! Holy Mackeral, 3 weeks of crying, shitting and peeing. I need a drink.

I got to thinking, are there bars and restaurants or cool shops in Downtown San Diego that are Stinky friendly? A place I can go just hang out and spend quality time with my pet without sitting on the couch all day? Here's what I found:

East Village Tavern & Bowl
930 Market Street & 9th, East Village District
100 foot long patio, come enjoy your favorite drink or game with your pet

The Fleetwood
639 J Street & 7th, Gaslamp District
Enjoy their wrap around patio on the corner with your pet

Pannikin
675 G Street & 7th, Gaslamp District
Enjoy your exotic coffee or tea with your pet

Café 222
222 Island Ave & 2nd, Marina District
Enjoy the best breakfast tamales with your pet

You can go to: www.DogFriendly.com for an extensive list of hotels, parks, beaches, bars and restaurants.