Pablo's Blog

68285 Bella Vista Rd, Cathedral City, CA 92234

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 03:32:20 -0500

68285 Bella Vista Rd, Cathedral City, CA 92234

Three Bedrooms Two Baths 1671 SQ FT Built 1996

FANTASTIC Panorama Park home nicely UPGRADED & affordably priced. PERFECT for 1st time buyers, investors, snow birds, or vacation home buyers. Great LOCATION very close to City Park, TOP schools, restaurants, shopping, golf, resort casinos, I-10... the best of the desert just minutes away. Don't let this opportunity pass you by... let the SELLER'S LOSS be YOUR GAIN!!!

Pablo Gonzalez

760-250-2175

What’s a Perfect Gift?

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 19:14:18 -0600

Somewhere between our desire to give and our delivery of the perfect gift, the point of the effort gets lost. Often, it's because there's a vast difference between what we can afford and how meaningful we want the gift to be for the recipient.

But "meaningful" doesn't have to be expensive or rare or even three-dimensional. The act of merely passing on information can be a great gift to others. Think about instances when someone has done this for you: Sent you an article about an unusual remedy to a problem you'd been having; clued you in to a vital piece of information at work that put you in the know and increased your value on the job; told you about a book that gave you a new perspective - possibly even changed your life.

Bits of wisdom, guidance to publications, recommendations for doctors, daycare centers, other professional services, networking opportunities - all of it has the potential to make a difference in someone's life. And it's all within your reach. The key is to assess what someone especially needs, and then give it in an openhearted manner when the time is just right. That, indeed, is a perfect and meaningful gift.

May your holidays be filled with all that's perfect and meaningful!

Sincerely,

Pablo A Gonzalez
Your Real Estate Consultant For Life

P.S. Have you given or received a perfect gift? Please email me at pabloagceja@yahoo.com or call me at 760-250-2175.

Valley home sales rise in September

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 02:12:48 -0500

Overall home sales rose 65 percent in the Coachella Valley in September, according to DataQuick Information Systems.

Largely responsible for the sales were resale single-family homes, which rose 151 percent compared to September 2007. Resale condos were up 16.5 percent, but new homes were down about 17 percent.

Drops in median prices helped homebuyers afford the homes. The valley's overall median home price dropped 38 percent in September. The priciest home sold was a $2.49 million single-family home in La Quinta.

Nearly every valley city or area saw a larger percentage of homes sell in September compared to the previous year. Coachella led the way, with 1,025 percent more homes selling. Indio, with 111 homes sold, saw a 455 percent uptick.

Other large gainers included Desert Hot Springs (447 percent), Bermuda Dunes (362 percent), Cathedral City (164 percent) and Palm Desert (the 92260 ZIP code rose 100 percent).

Struggling economy impacts social scene

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 01:59:10 -0500

Several Coachella Valley community events and festivals have fallen victim to the struggling economy.

The Cathedral City Chamber of Commerce would have filled town square with thousands of Oktoberfest revelers this weekend, but canceled the event because of a lack of sponsorship.

"All companies are under pressure to plug holes in their dikes," said Steve Morris, president and CEO of the Cathedral City Chamber of Commerce.

Community events are especially vulnerable, he said, and may have a tough time securing enough sponsors into the foreseeable future.

"With community festivals, you're always expected to have a bank sponsor and now your bank may no longer be in business," he said.

Another festival that deflated because of sponsorship was the Red, White and Blue Polo and Balloon Festival at Eldorado Polo Club and Fantasy Springs Resort.

"When you lose some of your major sponsors like the city of Indio ... it makes it hard to go forward," said Randy Russell, president of Polo America, which puts on the event.

This January would have been the fourth year for the festival.

"The money is tightening up, that's what it's all about. I just think people are cutting back," said Indian Wells resident Walter McIntyre, who for years has been keeping track of valleywide events.

Home sales to rise and prices will fall in 2009

A new forecast released last week by the California Association of Realtors predicts 2009 will see lowering home prices and rising sales, especially among entry-level properties.

The 2009 Housing Market Forecast states that California's median home price will drop another 6 percent to $358,000 in 2009 and home sales will rise 12.5 percent.

The forecast is based on the assumption that the financial markets start stabilizing later this year and early next year.

While the forecast is not specific to the Coachella Valley, local real estate experts say the same trends will dominate the valley's market in 2009 as well.

"The market is in a recovery process," said Greg Berkemer, executive vice president of the California Desert Association of Realtors and one of several local real estate leaders in Long Beach on Wednesday for the forecast's unveiling.

"It's just going to take a little longer for us to get through all the problems. But the good news is we stopped creating these problems."

The 2009 forecast anticipates that the economy's "weakest period" will last through the second quarter, with association president William Brown describing the time as "recessionary economic conditions."

But the large number of foreclosures and short-sale distressed properties should peak in early 2009, helping the state's housing market regain momentum.

All told, the association is predicting that 445,000 existing single-family homes will be sold statewide in 2009, up 12.5 percent from the 395,600 expected to be sold this year.

The association focuses on the resale market, not new construction, which is typically not sold through the multiple listing service.

"We see that sales are up (statewide) as bargain hunters are coming into the market," Brown said in a phone interview with The Desert Sun.

"It is a buyer's market. That's the reality of the situation. We're concerned with the home buyer that wants to move into the house. At the current levels, looking out on the three- to five-year horizon, they will make a lot of money on their home."

Palm Springs is now regulating event homes

Owners of vacation and event homes in Palm Springs are now required to register their properties and pay taxes.

The vacation rental and event home laws were approved by the City Council last month and go into effect Friday. Owners have 60 days to register their vacation homes with the city.

The cost will be around $100, City Manager David Ready said.

Both laws seek to limit occupancy, curb loud parties, traffic and overflowing trash bins left by renters.

"I live next door to a vacation rental that is well managed," said John Williams, chairman of the Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee.

"It hasn't been an issue. There have been others in the neighborhood that have been problem houses ... (with) music and people screaming and yelling."

Williams said his organization, which represents more than 20 neighborhoods in the city, has worked with local officials for two years to create a vacation rental ordinance.

He said the group is pleased with the outcome.

The valley's economy discussed at summit

Hundreds of Coachella Valley leaders and economic experts gathered in Indian Wells on Friday for the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership's Economic Outlook Summit.

The annual event at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa typically draws hundreds of attendees.

This year's theme was "Leave No Stone Unturned," and officials discussed where the valley is headed as a region and what is needed for a balanced, prosperous future.

Modernized Riviera Resort reopens its doors

The Riviera Resort & Spa officially opened its doors Wednesday after a monthslong $70 million makeover.

Training for the Riviera work force of 200 began on Oct. 1, with a soft opening.

Trial runs have been made to prepare for Wednesday's opening of the property that has released keys to 169 of the 406 guest rooms, Schoenfield said. The estimated time for completing all the rooms is Dec. 1.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony on the 24-acre resort will be Tuesday.

Once a celebrity playground for the likes of former Palm Springs residents Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley, the Riviera will feature more than 45,000 square feet of meeting and event space, with the ability to accommodate small receptions and events or large meetings with up to 1,000 attendees.

The Riviera, set amid lushly landscaped gardens with courtyards anchored by fire pits, noted room rates from $289 for standard guest rooms to $4,800 per night for the lavish, two-level presidential suite, according to a statement released Wednesday.

The resort is at 1600 N. Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.

Unemployment rates in double-digits for 3 cities

A state report out Friday shows unemployment rates throughout the Coachella Valley improved or stayed the same in September.

Three valley cities - Coachella, Desert Hot Springs and Indio - continue to show double-digit unemployment rates, but each of them slightly improved, the Employment Development Department reported.

The highest unemployment rates are historically seen during the summer months and then to improve come September, said Joe Briceno, labor market consultant for the EDD in Riverside. That's when job gains are usually seen in education and government, he said.

This September was a little higher compared to the past, he pointed out.

Riverside County's overall unemployment rate also improved from 9.7 percent in August to 9.5 percent in September.

The state's rate remained unchanged at 7.7 percent.

Can You Change Your Luck?

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 01:49:07 -0500

The dictionary defines "luck" as "the force, considered the result of chance, that seems to operate for good or ill in a person's life." But is luck really just the "result of chance," or can we, perchance, take some steps to ensure good luck by doing the following?

Pay attention to your surroundings; you won't spot good luck unless you look for it.

Strike up conversations with strangers. You might meet the love of your life, or make an important business contact.

After you meet someone interesting, follow up with a note or phone call.

Stay relaxed, even in a pressure situation; it will help you be more aware.

Vary your routine. Walk on the other side of the street, or try a new lunch spot.

Be aggressive about making changes you want. Still thinking about moving across the country? Just go, already!

Follow your hunches and gut feelings; many seemingly random occurrences are actually the result of good subconscious decisions.

Treat nagging doubts as alarm bells. They're often right, even if you can't pinpoint the reason.

Expect good fortune. If you think something's going to happen, you'll be more likely to spot it when it does.

Believe in lucky charms. A four-leaf clover doesn't have special powers, but the confidence it gives you is very powerful.

Smile. People will smile back, and suddenly you're off to a good start.

Outlast bad luck. Often a negative turn of events creates unexpected opportunities for good results.

Wishing you a lifetime of good luck!

P.S. Do you have a good luck story you'd like to share? Please email me at pabloagceja@yahoo.com or call me at 760-250-2175.

Staging Your Home to Sell for Top Dollar

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 02:18:32 -0500

What is Home Staging?

So, exactly What is Staging?

Let's say you want to sell your car for the most money possible.

· How would you do it?

· What would you do?

· Who would want to buy it?

• How would you sell it?

Wouldn't you first make it look as beautiful as possible - by polishing it so it's so shiny you could see your reflection in it? Wouldn't you clean it, inside and out, so it was spick and span, and free from all the papers, spare change, kids toys, clothes and fast food wrappers we cart around every day (so you could actually sit in the seats and see the floors)? If a tire was flat, wouldn't you have it repaired? Then, once you've done all of that, how would you sell it? Wouldn't you market it by advertising?

Well, that's what staging is, only we take it one step further...

Staging is the process of preparing any home for sale, regardless of price or location using proven, unique techniques of furniture and accessory placement which appeals to all buyers.

These techniques are known to Accredited Staging Professional Masters and Accredited Staging Professionals as they have been trained by the creator of home staging herself, Barb Schwarz. Barb's unique system has proven to help sell homes faster and/or for more money in any market. Real estate agents will have great confidence in showing your home to potential buyers because they know it is Staged and ready to be sold.

Staging A home

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 02:09:58 -0500

Fall Back, Replace, And Be Safe

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:06:32 -0500

Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 2. We turn our clocks back and gain an hour, and the perfect way to spend that hour is replacing the batteries in your smoke detectors. But have you thought about replacing your smoke detectors, as well?

The National Fire Protection Association urges homeowners to replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. "Older smoke alarms are estimated to have a 30 percent probability of failure," the association states, adding that it's also a good idea to buy new alarms when moving. "Unless you know that the smoke alarms are new, replacing them when moving into a new residence is recommended."

Also, according to a report by the American Journal of Public Health, pedestrian fatalities quadruple during the period just after Daylight Saving Time ends. Safety experts remind drivers to turn on their headlights at dusk, slow down, and keep an eye out for pedestrians. When you're a pedestrian, be extra-aware of drivers!

How To Avoid Work-At-Home Scams

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:02:21 -0500

"Earn thousands of dollars a month from your home!" We've all seen these types of ads posted on telephone poles and on the Internet. It sounds great, but the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends exercising caution when it comes to work-at-home opportunities. Many of these companies don't deliver on their promises, warns the FTC.

What many of these ads don't disclose is that you may have to work many hours without pay, or front the money for the materials needed to accomplish the job such as envelopes, paper, stamps, or other supplies. Many consumers have lost thousands of dollars to companies like these - not to mention their time and energy, says the FTC.

Before you accept a work-at-home job, ask questions like these to determine the legitimacy of the offer and the appropriateness of it for you:

· What does the job entail? Can you describe the process step by step?

· Who will be my contact with your organization?

· How is the compensation determined: Is it a salary? Piecework? Commission?

· Who will pay me?

· When may I expect my first paycheck?

· What is the total cost of the work-at-home program, including supplies, equipment, and membership fees? And what will I get for my money?

Management 101?

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 02:58:09 -0500

One day, the boss had had enough. His people just didn't get it. He grabbed two pieces of paper and

wrote "Think!" on them with a big fat magic marker, then posted his signs above the sinks in the

restrooms. "They can't miss my message now," he thought to himself with satisfaction.

The next day the boss returned to one of the restrooms. Below the sign he had posted, just above the

soap dispenser, was a new sign that read "Thoap!"

When It Pays To Replace

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 02:53:13 -0500

Sometimes it's hard to know when a broken device or appliance is worth the money to repair. For these items, most consumer financial experts agree it pays to skip the repair bill and replace them.

Computers and laptops. If the machine is more than five years old, it's definitely worth it to replace. Even if it's younger than that, realize that a third of repaired computers still don't function properly. And weigh the projected cost of the repair against the shrinking cost of a new, more powerful computer. (Apply the same criteria to your printer.)

Digital cameras. Most consumers will spend an average of $180 on repairs, but $200 will buy you a new digital camera.

MP3 players. If you spent less than $200 on it, replace it with a new one because most repairs cost at least half of that.

Microwave ovens. Repairs generally run $120, but you can buy a new microwave for as little as $70.

Cell phones. Many carriers will give you a free phone if you sign up for a one- or two-year contract. Don't forget to read the fine print!

When electronic items do need to be disposed of, do it properly. Check on recycling options that won't release toxic chemicals from these devices into the environment.

How To Share Your Gratitude

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:02:53 -0500

While preparing Thanksgiving dinner, pass out slips of paper to those gathered for your feast. Invite

each person to list three things they're thankful for. Then, while eating dinner, give each person the

opportunity to read their list out loud. Don't be surprised when your lists bring out many emotions

(happy, sad, thoughtful, tears, smiles, laughter) but most of all, your love for one another.

Blessings In Stone

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 01:54:09 -0500

Two friends were walking through the desert. As the day wore on and they became hotter and wearier, they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face.

The one who got slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand, Today my best friend slapped me in the face.

They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they knelt beside a pond, eager for a long, cool drink. The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him.

After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone, Today my best friend saved my life.

The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, "After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone. Why?"

The other friend replied, "When someone hurts us we should write it in sand where the winds of forgiveness can erase it away. But when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it."

Let's learn to write our hurts in the sand and carve our blessings in stone!

Pablo Gonzalez

Is It Time For a New Year/New Attitude?

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 02:27:59 -0500

Do you sometimes hear a negative attitude coming out of your mouth, and wish it weren't so?

Can anything be done about a negative attitude? In other words, can you change? Of course you can. If you're in need of a New Attitude for the New Year, here are some thoughts to keep in mind:

•Attitudes are not something we're born with - they're created, which means they can be recreated as well.

•Attitudes are infectious. Try spending time around people who have good attitudes and who make you feel good. When you're around a positive person you feel energized - not drained.

•Start your day on a positive note. It might feel phony at first, but it will become second nature if you keep at it. Change your clock radio to upbeat music instead of the news, give someone a small compliment as soon as you get to work, perform a random act of kindness for someone you know - or a complete stranger.

•Greet people like you're genuinely happy to see them - and then think of reasons why you are genuinely happy to see them.

•Instead of heading straight for defensive mode and expecting the worst out of others, reverse the process and try expecting the best out of everyone.

•Don't be so hard on yourself. Throw your perfectionism out. It won't do you a bit of good since you're essentially setting yourself up for failure. Repeat after me: No one is perfect.

My best wishes for a positively great 2009!

Sincerely,

Pablo Gonzalez

Your Real Estate Consultant for Life

P.S. What are you doing to make it a great 2009? Please email me at pabloagceja@yahoo.com or call me at 760-250-2175.

What’s In the “Empty” Gold Box?

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 02:19:52 -0500

The holidays are a time of giving, receiving - and remembering the priorities:

Once upon a time there was a man who punished his five-year-old daughter for using a roll of gold wrapping paper. Money was tight, and he became angry when he saw the child put the wrapped box under the holiday tree. "We barely have enough to get by," he said harshly, "and you used up the only wrapping paper we had in the house. Go to your room and stop being so wasteful."

Nevertheless, the little girl brought the gift to her father the next morning, and said, "This is for you, Daddy." The father was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction, but his anger flared again when he found that the box was empty. "Don't you know that when you give someone a present, there's supposed to be something inside the package?"

The little girl looked up at him with tears in her eyes and said, "Oh, Daddy, it's not empty. I blew kisses into the box until it was full. All for you, Daddy."

The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little girl, and begged her for forgiveness. He kept that gold box by his bed for years. Whenever he faced difficult problems and felt discouraged, he'd take out an imaginary kiss and remember the love of the child who had put it there.

Sometimes the most unexpected gift is the best gift! My warmest wishes for a holiday season filled with the best of gifts.

Sincerely,

Pablo Gonzalez

Your Real Estate Consultant for Life

P.S. What's the best gift you've ever received? Please email me at pabloagceja@yahoo.com or call me at 760-250-2175.

Be prepared!

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 02:19:52 -0500

What do you need to know about the prospect's business to engage? I mean if you just walk in the door and say, "Tell me a little bit about your business," how unprepared does that make you look? Answer: TOTALLY UNPREPARED. Prepared is going to their website and printing out several strategic pages, reading them, and making notes so you can ask about what you don't understand, or need elaboration on -- not asking about them from TOTAL IGNORANCE.

NOTE: Just so we understand each other, "Tell me a little about your business, " is the third dumbest thing you can say to or ask a prospect. The second is "Let me tell you a little about my business." The prospect couldn't CARE LESS about you or your business, and probably already knows enough to not want to hear it again. The first most dumbest? I'll tell you later. Let's talk about where to find out information about a prospect and his or her business before your sales call.

1. The Internet. Don't just look up their site. Enter their company name on Google or other search engines like dogpile.com and see what pops up. There may be an article or other important information. Then enter the name of the person you're meeting with. Then enter the name of the CEO. Then tell me why you're not meeting with the CEO. (Just a little jab there.) By the way, if you look up the name of the person you're meeting with and you find nothing, that also tells you something.

2. Their literature. Even though it's we-we, it has the basic "brags" covered and may talk about shifts in emphasis and market coverage. It also tells you what they think of themselves and their products.

3. Their vendors. Usually reluctant talkers, but they can tell you what it's like to do business with them and all about how you are going to be paid. Valuable information to say the least. Vendors are a rarely used resource.

4. Their competition. Oh man, talk about dirt, here it is. Just ask casual questions about how they win business -- it will tell you what it will be like to negotiate with them. By the way, the more their competition hates them, the better they usually are. Competitors hate the people who take business away from them.

5. Their customers. Customers talk. And they are the real word on delivery, organization, quality, and the subtle information that can give you an insightful competitive advantage.

6. People in your network who may know them. A quick e-mail to your inside group asking for information will always net a fact or two and may just be the bonanza you were looking for.

7. Their other employees. Occasionally the admin will help, but don't count on it. A better bet is their PR department or their marketing department.

8. The best and least used resource: Their sales department. Salespeople will tell you anything. You can get details you won't believe.

8. 5 Google yourself. Want some pain? Look up your own name. Where are you? What's your Internet position? Suppose they are looking you up. What will they find? If it's nothing, that's a report card on you.

And it's not just Internet preparation. It's other research like finding mutual friends, calling a few vendors, maybe a few customers. Getting VITAL information as it relates to the buying of your product or service. There's one more thing in preparation: Be prepared with an objective or two about what you want to accomplish in the meeting.

Proper preparation takes time, but I assure you it's impressive to the prospect. He or she knows that you have prepared, and is silently impressed. It's an advantage that very few salespeople use. They make the fatal error of getting all their own stuff ready. PowerPoint slides, samples, literature, business cards -- you know, all the same things the competition is doing. Biggest mistake in sales. And almost every salesperson makes it.

And it's not only preparation about the sale -- it's your personal preparation for sales -- your personal training. How ready are you? Get ready baby. Turn off the TV and get ready.

Spend A Little Get A Lot #2

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 02:01:11 -0500

•If you have more than two cars in your driveway, park the extra vehicles at a neighbor's house. This will give your driveway and yard a spacious look.

•Oil and rust stains can be removed from concrete with commercial driveway cleaners that are available from automotive and home improvement stores.

•The basement needn't be spotless, but change light bulbs and clear cobwebs before showing the house.

•Change air conditioning and furnace filters so the units will run efficiently.

•If your washer and dryer are in the basement, create a cozy laundry area by adding an area rug and shelves to store detergent bottles.

•Check for termites by using a pocketknife to jab the support beams near the house foundation. If the knife penetrates the wood easily, then there could be a termite problem.

Spend A Little Get A Lot #1

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 01:56:54 -0500

•Holiday displays, including Christmas cards, should be removed and stored by the first week in January.

•Use degreaser and a razor blade to make basement windows crystal-clear.

•Remember to put away valuables while showing your home. Expensive jewelry belongs in a safe deposit box.

•Have long-stemmed artificial flowers to pack? Ask your local florist for a couple of boxes wholesalers use to deliver fresh flowers to florists.

•Even if your entire house doesn't need to be painted, putting a fresh coat of paint in a new color on the door and trim may keep a couple thousand dollars on your sale price.

•Don't wait until the last minute to call professional painters because their schedules may be filled. Hire them as soon as you make the decision to sell.

You're Showing Your House In A Minute... These Quick Tips Will Help You Find The Best Hiding Places Where Buyers Will Never look!

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 01:59:59 -0500

What do you do when your Realtor calls and wants to show your home in say, half an hour? Jump for joy first, since someone wants to look at YOUR home, right? Then, panic. As you hang up the phone, you notice that your teenagers have been at it again...your house is CLEAN, it's just not TIDY. Now, what do you do?

Since we all know that the first impression is important, especially if you want to sell your home in the next decade, we have a few tips that will help you quickly hide away "stuff." But first, you have to know where the buyers are going to look, and ensure that these places are constantly tidy.

Places that buyers will look include the oven, any closets, kitchen drawers, laundry room, and the kitchen pantry. Think about it; these places give them an indication, essentially, of how much storage space there is. If they're overflowing, the buyers will think there just isn't enough room to store their own things, since obviously you don't have the space. If you need a reminder of the basics of preparing your house for sale, refer back to our book, How To Sell Your House For Top Dollar - Fast.

Don't defeat your efforts by stashing clutter in these places at the last minute, no matter how tempting it may be!

Enough of that! What you want to know is, at the last minute, where CAN you hide things?

Under the bed. It's spacious, easy to get to, and no one in their right mind would get down on their hands and knees to look there during their first visit. In addition, kids are probably used to stashing things there anyway, and can help you.

In the washer and dryer. Who hasn't seen the commercial where a little kid has stashed a pet in there? We don't recommend putting your pets in there, but clothes and shoes and "stuff" can easily fit. Although buyers like to look in the laundry to see the size and neatness, they won't be looking to see if you actually have things in there. Our caution is to let everyone in the family know that it's a hiding place, and to never start the machines without checking the contents first.

In the refrigerator. This is risky; you know your kids are going to be in and out of the fridge - and how embarrassing would it be to have a shoe fall out? On the other hand, if you've just walked in from the grocery, you can certainly stash the entire grocery bag in there, until you're ready to unpack it and put things away neatly.

Behind the couch. That is, if the couch is against the wall. We all know that things get trapped there anyway, so it could be a quick opportunity to drop a toy or wayward socks for a quick fix.

In the trunk of your car. Your garage or carport needs to be tidy. If it isn't garbage day, yet you have bags lying around, drop them in. Skateboards and roller blades are a hazard anyway, so drop them in, too. Nobody has a right to check in your vehicle - take advantage of that fact!

Let me leave you with this quick story. My mother-in-law, being a naturally organized person, has clothes closets organized by color and like items, linen closets with towels and sheets stacked by size and color, and jars in her kitchen pantry with labels facing the front like a grocery store shelf.

This may seem extreme, but when she showed the house for sale, one buyer actually told her that he'd buy her home for the state of her closets alone! He believed that if she paid that much attention to a closet, that she must have taken that kind of care with the rest of her home.

Did You Know That You Need A Job, A Good Credit Rating and Promise To Pay The Lender Back Before You Can Get A Loan?

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 01:48:37 -0500

You must have heard about the about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and because it's important to me that you get the ‘ Straight Talk" I thought I would take a minute and interpret for you exactly what it means and how it will impact you personally.

First a little history.

A couple of month's ago the federal government took action to shore up Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

For starters, the Federal Reserve opened the discount window to allow the two government sponsored enterprises to borrow lots of money, at 2.5% to cover there mounting losses.

The Fed committed to making sure that these two companies who hold or guarantee 5.2 trillion dollars worth of mortgages didn't go belly up.

So here's what's going on now:

Freddie and Fannie have lost 3.1 billion dollars between April and June, and about 14 billion dollars year to date.
Now the guys at the top of both companies are getting kicked out, and there have been some revelations of poor management as well as the possibility of cooked books.

So the Fed is stepping in, and putting the companies into conservator ship. Sort of like Chapter 11 reorganization. They're going to buy around 100 billion dollars worth of Fannie and Freddie mortgage backed securities.

This is a big deal, because not only does it show the government's commitment to keeping these companies afloat, but also because it can have a positive effect on rates.

What we can expect is more of what we've seen in the past year. Lenders have gotten away from the very loose underwriting guidelines of the last several years.

Borrowers will really have to have their ducks in a row with good documentation, and credit issues dealt with in advance.

So here's the bottom line- Mortgages are going to continue to be available with good rates, but lenders are going to be very strict in they're underwriting.

So the next time your in a conversation with a family member, friend, or neighbor and you know that they have a job, a good credit rating and will keep their commitment to pay back their loan and they mention that they need help getting a loan to fit their needs do these three things.

1.    Take out your cell phone.
2.    Look up my number.
3.    Call me immediately and we can talk about how you can introduce them to me.

I hope this information has been helpful to you, and I'll keep you posted on any new developments.

Pablo Gonzalez

Spend a Little Get a Lot #10

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 03:02:42 -0500

•If your stove has drip trays, replace them. They're inexpensive, easy to install, and improve the look of the appliance.

•Clean all windowsills regularly. A dirty windowsill will negate any benefits of a sparkling window.

•To create a feeling of space when showing the house, leave all interior doors open.

•Hard water deposits on sinks and tubs can be removed with the same type of fine pumice stone used to remove mineral deposits from the side of swimming pools.

•To remove old paint from ornate turnings, dip twine into paint remover, hold by both ends and pull back and forth between crevices.

•To banish odors from a room, remove the source of the smell, then use room deodorizer, potpourri, carpet freshener, deodorized cat litter or cedar chips to freshen the area.

•If you have more than two cars in your driveway, park the extra vehicles at a neighbor's house. This will give your driveway and yard a spacious look.

•Oil and rust stains can be removed from concrete with commercial driveway cleaners that are available from automotive and home improvement stores.

•The basement needn't be spotless, but change light bulbs and clear cobwebs before showing the house.

5 Improvements NOT To Do Before Selling Your Home

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 02:55:34 -0500

You've made the decision to sell your home and now your mind is quickly filling with a lengthy to-do list. Before panic begins to set in, take heart and repeat a new mantra: "Soap and paint are my friends." While the home should be neat, clean and in good repair, major improvements are not necessary and cost more than usually can be recouped in the selling price. So, give the house a thorough cleaning, a fresh painting and perhaps recarpet areas that have worn footpaths through them. Rest assured that money spent on soap, paint and carpet will reappear in the selling price of the home. And remember, if buyers can't see the money you spent, you won't recoup it...even if you tell them about it. Resist the temptation to undertake major renovations or replacements - particularly these five costly projects.

CLOSETS

Buyers may oooh and ahhh over a large walk-in closet that could double for a well-organized bedroom, but they won't pay you extra for it. Adding, expanding or customizing closets can cost thousands of dollars and while they look impressive, the return on investment isn't. Save your money.

ROOM ADDITIONS

Unless your home is a two-bedroom/one bath in a neighborhood of four-bedroom/two bath homes, don't waste your time, sanity or money on adding rooms.

There's no way to predict a buyer's preferences, so it's best to present the home in the best way possible - using soap, paint and carpet - and leave any remodeling to the new owners.

POOL

A pool may seem like a good way to attract buyers, but many folks just don't want the maintenance that comes with it. A buyer who doesn't want the upkeep of a pool won't purchase a house that has one. Pools and their surrounding deck areas are expensive and this cost is rarely returned in the selling price of the house. However, someone who adores the house would be willing to put in a pool later. Let them shoulder that expense.

NEW ROOF

Putting on a new roof isn't a good idea for a couple of reasons. A seller is only required to have a roof that doesn't leak. Leaky roofs are easily and inexpensively patched. The money saved by patching the roof makes repair a better choice. Also, replacing the roof involves making a subjective choice about the color, shingle style and durability of the roof. If the buyer doesn't care for the new roof, the cost of it could be money wasted.

MAJOR RENOVATIONS TO KITCHEN OR BATHROOM

Remember the mantra? "Soap and paint are my friends." These renovations are costly and require decisions as to style, colors, brands and price. In lieu of remodeling the kitchen or bathroom, experts suggest reducing the asking price to reflect the outdated kitchen and bathrooms and allow the purchaser to take care of these projects.

Now that we've dismissed most of the major projects, it's easier to focus on cleaning, painting and carpeting. When deciding which projects to undertake, keep in mind that you want to do the least amount of fixing up required in order to sell the house for the maximum selling price.

Spend a Get a Lot Little #11

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 02:49:01 -0500

•Use the proper type of paint for each surface you need to cover. Kitchen and bathrooms require paint that can withstand heat and moisture. Consult a professional at a paint store for advice.

•Create an information booklet containing property tax statements; records of maintenance, service work, warranty work and improvements made to the house; utility bills; and warranties for the roof, pool, spa, electrical systems and major appliances.

•Immediately before showing the house, make the home inviting by cleaning windows, opening the drapes, turning on lights and playing soft music.

•Keep under-the-bed storage containers handy for last minute clean up. Fill them with clutter and shove them out of sight.

•Light a couple of lightly scented candles to give a feeling of warmth and add a nice aroma.

Creative Use of Colors

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 02:45:33 -0500

Have you ever been driving through a neighborhood and all of the sudden a Pepto Bismal pink house shocks you out of a daydream? Did you notice anything other than the color - the lush green lawn or the squeaky clean entry way, perhaps? Of course not. You were probably too busy gawking at the color.

Color is a powerful thing. Red is stimulating, which is why you don't see too many school rooms painted this color. Dark blue is relaxing. Yellow reminds us of sunlight, so it has a tendency to evoke cheerful feelings. Green encourages peacefulness and stability. Colors can remind us of certain people, specific places or times in our lives - some good, some bad. When preparing your home to put it up for sale, one thing you don't want to do is evoke the wrong feelings. It's best to play it safe and opt for neutral, reflective colors like white or ivory for the interior. White, light gray and tan work well for the exterior.

Use of color is a great way to create optical illusions that are effective in downplaying a home's shortcomings. For instance, using lighter colors will make a small space seem larger. Conversely, if you wish a room to look smaller, then paint it a warmer color. If a room is long and narrow, paint the walls at either end a dark, warm color like deep brown or green. This will draw the ends

to the center of the room, giving it more of a square look. To lower a ceiling that's too high, paint it a darker color - coffee tones, grays, or dark green. Just make sure the room is light enough to handle the darker colors.

To make a low ceiling appear higher, paint the walls a darker color than the ceiling. Busy walls with areas chopped up by radiators, doors, vents and windows make a room look smaller. Paint the room in a flat tone, including the radiator, doors, vents and casement, and these negative features will blend into the room. Color allows one to make the best of a home's not-so-great features.

Many experts favor paint over wallpaper, but there are times when wallpaper may be the best choice. Use wallpaper if it covers a cosmetic problem or if it adds to the home's historic charm. Exercise caution and self restraint, though, and stay away from large or loud patterns, strong colors and unusual designs. Vertical stripes make a room seem taller and hallways shorter.

Horizontal stripes make a room look wider and hallways longer. Regardless of the design flaw being camouflaged, it's best to keep wallpaper as nondescript as possible.

Generally, the rule is to keep walls, ceilings and floors neutral and add colors with accent items. Temporary splashes of color can be added with all types of fabrics - area rugs, table cloths, napkins, sofa cushions, window curtains, bed spreads and quilts.

Kitchens can be spiced up with canisters, dish towels, framed prints, curtains, window blinds, wallpaper boarders and green plants. Just be sure to keep the plants watered. Give pizzazz to bathrooms with matching towel sets, bath mats, shower curtains, toilet seats, decorative hand soaps, silk flowers, curtains, blinds and wall hangings. In bedrooms, throw in color through comforters or quilts, sheets, window treatments, area rugs, and plants or flowers. Just keep in mind that these items are to enhance the look of the house; they're not to add clutter or make a statement. You want the house to speak for itself.

Spend A Little Get A Lot #8

Pablo Gonzalez (ST. JAMES PROPERTIES) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:30:33 -0500

•· If basement stairs lack a handrail, then add one. It's safer and, in most states, required by law.

•· Revitalize a tree or bush by trimming dead leaves and branches.

•· Get rid of odors by cleaning drapes and carpets, scooping out the cat's litter box daily, and emptying ashtrays each day.

•· Keep a log of all improvements made and appliances purchased so you can remember what to include in the real estate listing.

•· Adding closet organizers, building shelves, and adding rooms are not cost effective and won't add to the sale price of the house.

•· To save money, fix a leaking roof instead of replacing it.

•· Professional window cleaners suggest donning rubber gloves then washing windows with a commercial window cleaner and newspaper. The newsprint creates extra sparkle.