Tina's Blog

1993 Kane Avenue, Sacramento CA 95835

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 15:29:19 -0500

New on the Market! This beautiful Mediterranean style home is located in a well established and desirable North Point Park area of Natomas. The home features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and over 2,800 square feet of living space. Built in 2001 by William Lyon Homes this property shows like new and has designer paint throughout. The very large master suite includes a private bathroom and his and her walk-in closets. The centerpiece of this home is the fully equipped kitchen with cherry wood cabinets and huge pantry. This must see home is perfect for a growing family.

Brokered And Advertised By: MagnumOne Realty

Listing Agent: Tina Farinas, REALTOR®, e-PRO®

Roseville Celebrating EARTH DAY

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 01:23:40 -0500

Tomorrow is expected to be a beautiful sunny day in Roseville. As a matter of fact, it will be 83° F just perfect to go out and enjoy the festivities of EARTH DAY!

"CELEBRATE THE EARTH 2009" event will take place at Mahany Regional Park facilities, located on the corner of Woodcreek Oaks Blvd and Pleasant Grove Blvd. It will start at 10:00AM to 3:00PM. This event is about bringing community awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment. The event line up is fun filled and educational from adults to kids.

There will be limited parking space at Mahany Park so to avoid congestions, here are some green tips for those who wish to attend:

1. Take a walk with the family to the park. It will be a beautiful warm day and what an opportunity to take in the beauty of the earth on your way to the park!

2. Take the Roseville Transit bus which stops in front of Mahany Park. All library cardholders rides for FREE.

3. Bike to the park with your family. Here's a perk for you if you ride a bike - there will be a FREE bike valet parking!

Hopet to see you there! HAPPY BIRTHDAY EARTH!!

Lighting up Roseville, CA

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 22:41:44 -0600

This is going to be a festive event. An excellent way to start the Holidays! Calling all Rosevillian and neighboring areas - tis time for the annual City's official Tree lighting ceremony in old downtown Roseville. Feel the small town celebration in a big way! Last year was filled with surprises including snow. Who knows what this year will bring! It is happening this Friday, December 5th beginning at 4PM to 8PM.

For more information, visit Tree Lighting Ceremony

A LOT TO BE THANKFUL FOR

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 19:09:20 -0600

First, I am thankful for the life I live. God gave me life and the challenges that comes with this is worth its weight in gold. No matter the hardship it brings, it is still my life and the manner I choose to live it is up to me.

I am thankful for my kids. Because of them my life has immeasurable meaning. They give color to my world that sometimes can be so harsh.

I am thankful for my grandchildren. They are the apple of my eyes. When I am feeling down, I only have to look into their eyes and happiness becomes a given. From them, I always have unconditional love.

I am thankful for my husband. Without him, I am nothing. Through good times and in bad, he has been there. No matter how evil I get, he puts up with me. He has sparked the competitiveness in me that allowed me to overcome the challenges and succeed in my life.

I am thankful for my brothers and sisters. They are to me an important part of my life. In times I needed a lift no words had to be mentioned, they're presence alone makes me whole.

I am thankful for all my nephews and my nieces. That they have become true to themselves and makes their parents proud.

I am thankful for my Mama. Without her there will be no ME. From her, I've learned what it is to truly be a MOM and how special that title is!

I am thankful for my Papa. He is the other half that makes ME. He has shown me the true meaning of what courage is. To face challenges as it comes and concur it. To learn from your mistake and move on in the right direction.

Mostly, I am thankful to GOD. Because He has blessed our family with abundant riches. Not physical or monetary riches but riches we can carry with us in our hearts forever.

I am thankful for HIM because he showed us there are such things as miracles. HE heard our cries and painful prayers during those dark days when we thought we would never be again with Papa. How else does one explain when he brings our Papa back to us and just in time to celebrate a wonderful holiday and possibly more holidays to come!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving...let's all reflect and find the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING ALL!

REACHING OUT TO HIM...

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:46:10 -0500

It never ceases to amaze me the power GOD has. When we surrender "THY WILL BE DONE", no matter how bad the situation or how heavy the load - HE whispers peace to calm us and allow us the room to breathe. I just want to give HIM thanks and praise for always being there for me and my family during these difficult times.

My dad had undergone a vascular arterial bypass surgery on Sept 11th. It was a suppose to be a maximum two hour surgery that extended to over 11 hours. There were many complications starting with a ruptured spleen which necessitate removing of the spleen and transfusion. We didn't get to see him for another two hours after this surgery and when we finally did, he did not look good. My sisters and I shielded my mom from it afraid that she would not be able to handle his state. For the first two days, my dad was put to deep sleep to allow him to recover from this long surgery. They started to decrease the medication to put him to sleep on the third day. I was with him during these times. He came around, although a bit confused and weak but I was happy to see him talking again. I felt that he was on his way to recovering and we were all happy. But twelve hours after they had transferred him from ICU to standard room, he spiked a fever, his white blood count was very high and an emergency surgery had to be done.

The second surgery extended to four hours, he had sepsis poisoning they said. Brought on by a dying intestine that they had to remove. They started flushing him with many antibiotics to stunt the sepsis poisoning. His belly is left open because of the swelling. I had just came home from staying the night before this second surgery. My mom was also sent home accompanied by one of my sisters to give her time to rest as well. That evening I received a call from a number I didn't recognized. I allowed it to go to my voicemail thinking it was not important. It was followed by another call, this time from my younger sister's cell. It was alarming call from her as she holds back the tears, "COME BACK, HE IS NOT LOOKING GOOD".

We drove to the hospital fearing the worst as fast as we can. The thirty minute drive felt like eternity to me and my husband couldn't calm me down. I was lead to the designated "CRYING ROOM" in the ICU floor when we got there. All my sisters, brothers, in laws, nieces and nephews were there. You can see they have been crying. My older sister was on her way to the hospital with my mom who had just left the hospital a few minutes before the doctors had told one of my sisters that my dad's heart is very weak. Then there was a "code blue" and they were trying to resuscitate him. A priest was called in to deliver prayer to my dad and the family. As the strongest person in the family, I lost it - couldn't figure out what was going on. So many questions flew in my head. What had gone wrong? The priest allowed me to come in to see my dad as he heads over to pray for him but I was stopped by the nurses telling me that I could not come in just yet and escorted me out. The nurse who walked me out said that my dad is in very critical condition with a very weak heart and now being assisted with a breathing tube.

So I returned to the crying room where my mom had just arrived and very upset because she knew something was wrong as all of us had red eyes. The priest entered the room after he prayed over my dad and prayed with us to ask GOD for mercy and recovery of my dad who was clinging on to his life. We waited for another hour until the doctors came out and told us that he is still with us but looks like deteriorating. They didn't know how much damage he had incurred in his brain because of oxygen deprivation due to his heart stopping. They told us it was a "wait and see" situation at this point.

He had been in deep sleep since the second operation. They had attempted the third time to bring him into the operating table to clean out any remaining poisoning and close his belly but the swelling is immense that they were unable to do. Many people prayed for my Papa and our family during all this. I have spent a majority of my time with my mom in the meditation room of the hospital to ask God for mercy and HIS WILL BE DONE. Before the fourth visit to surgery, my dad was coming to, recognizing our voice, communicating through lifting his eyebrows. A neurological test to examine his brain proove no extensive damage. But as he lays there, many complication begets him - his liver, his kidneys, his blood pressure, his constant tachycardia - all weakening. There was a possible stroke but really they can't really tell yet until he comes around completely.

They prep him for another attempt to clean and close his wound on his belly and they were able to do close halfway through. He is still weak but communicating to us. He has tried to open his eyes and seems to recognize all of us. Yesterday again, he was brought to surgery (I HOPE FOR THE LAST TIME) to close off his remaining wound. I saw him after surgery last night. All the doctors are happy and excited, he is really alert by opening his eyes and communicating to us through his face expressions. They say it is still a long recovery ahead of him, but he seemed to have bounced back and we are all optimistic about his condition.

For those who offered their support and kept prayer vigils for my dad, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. I believe in the power of MIRACLES and I believe that the good LORD is creating one with my dad. It is still a ways before he recovers, we are taking baby steps at this point but we feel that he is in the hands of our LORD and only HE can heal him.

Please support me in honor of my DAD by clicking below:

TRAIN TO END STROKE BY THE AMERICAN STROK ASSOCIATION

Have you or someone you love suffered a stroke?

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 22:18:33 -0500

The American Stroke Association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association to bring increased awareness and funding for research and services specifically focused on stroke, stroke survivors and stroke prevention.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel to the brain is either blocked by a blood clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain can't get the blood and oxygen it needs, so it starts to die. And when nerve cells can't function, the part of the body they control can't function either. The effects are often permanent because dead brain cells aren't replaced.

The statistics are alarming:

§ Every 45 seconds, someone in America has a stroke, and someone dies of one every 3.1 minutes.

§ Stroke is the nation’s No. 3 cause of death, ranking behind "diseases of the heart" and all forms of cancer. Stroke is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability.

§ About 4,500,000 stroke survivors are alive today, many needing ongoing care.

§ About 500,000 people have a first stroke every year, and 100,000 have recurrent attacks.

I have taken on a personal challenge to train for and complete a 26.2-mile marathon in February as part of the American Stroke Association’s Train To End Stroke program. I am writing to request all my fellow RAINERS to support me through a tax-deductible contribution toward my personal fundraising goal of $2,100. Currently, I have raised ONLY $200.00 and I could use all the help at this point to raise my goal before the October 17, 2008.

Train To End Stroke is unique in that it promotes fitness to participants while raising important new funds for stroke research and education. On a personal note, I am participating in this program and the marathon in honor of my Aunt Ely who suffered a stroke and past away. And also, in honor of my dad - known to all as HAPPY. He is a 73 year old man who is currently in critical condition in UC DAVIS MEDICAL CENTER ICU fighting to keep alive since Sept. 11th. I would be honored to also participate on behalf of any friends and Rainers who have gone through this devastating health crisis.

Please visit my personal donation page at http://sac-ttes.kintera.org/tfarinas and consider making a donation. It takes only a click to make a difference.

Just Listed!!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:51:09 -0500

Here is a beautiful property waiting for that special family to call it their HOME!. Located in the Markham Levine Estates in East Lincoln. It is move- in ready. The home features a two bedroom, two bath plus a den that can be converted easily into a third bedroom. Priced to sell quickly! Click on the flyer to see a virtual tour.

Just Listed!!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 20:53:43 -0500

Located in the gated community of Whispering Canyon. This is the last of the biggest lot! Almost a half an acre of land to create your dream home and still have plenty of spaces in the backyard for a huge pool! Excellent neighborhood with walking trails. Just a block away, you will find the best place to cool off in Roseville - Sunsplash!

173 Lost Oak Ct Roseville, CA 95661

Listed at $250,000

MLS#80065616

For more information, visit my website at www.TinaFarinas.com or call me at 916-208-5718.

Did You Know....???

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:18:53 -0500

It is possibleto lead a cow upstairs, but not downstairs?
Coca-Cola was originally GREEN?
Every day more money is printed for the board game MONOPOLY than the U.S. Treasury?
The first couple shown in bed together on prime time TV was Fred and Whilma Flintstone?
The smartest dogs are:
- Scottish border Collie
- Poodle, and
- Golden Retriever?
The dumbest dog is the Afghan hound?

AND LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST.......

The Hawaiian alphabet has only 12 letters?

Happy Tuesday ALL!

In Effect TODAY!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:51:09 -0500

The new cell phone law goes in effect across California TODAY. Just a reminder to those who are attached to their cell phones - PLEASE USE YOUR HEADSET. This law applies to all including teenagers who otherwise, would feel the urge to use text messaging while driving. As we all know, many teenagers can text message with their eyes closed.

The new state law prohibits 16 to 17 year olds from using the device while driving, except for emergency use ONLY. Anyone caught driving with a cell phone on their ears will be subject to a fine - $20 for the first ticket, $50 for subsequent tickets and any additional fees that will more than triple the fine.

Fireworks Extravaganza!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:03:40 -0500

Fourth of July is days away!! Fire a salute, time to paint the town red, white, and blue! Do you know where you will be on Independence day? Roseville and Lincoln have a whole day planned for the community to celebrate, come down and join the party!

ROSEVILLE - Every year, Fourth of July in Roseville is celebrated as a community starting with an early morning parade in Historic downtown. The parade ends in Royer Park and the festivies continues on with food, games, and music. As it gets dark, the celebration is brought over to the Placer County Fairgrounds and the fireworks begins. Check out the schedule by clicking the above.

LINCOLN - This is the fourth annual 4th of July celebration in Lincoln. The event starts with pancake breakfast early in the morning by Native Daughters and Sons. The "America the Beautiful" parade starts at 9:00 AM beginnning in D Street. The festivities continues all day with lots of entertainment , food, and games for children to enjoy. The event will end with lots of fireworks at the McBean Park. Check out their schedule by clicking the picture above.

**Just a friendly reminder: Only Safe and Sane Fireworks are legal in California and may be sold within the city limits. Please practice precaution when discharging.

Here is a little trivia for you to think about as this day approach!

Who do we have to thank for those festive Fireworks on the Fourth of July?

The discovery of gunpowder and the invention of the first true fireworks, are traditionally credited to the Chinese. Fireworks were a part of the very first Independence Day (Fourth of July) celebration in 1777, six years before Americans knew whether or not the new nation would survive the war.

INSPIRED TO BLOG BY "DID YOU KNOW" GROUP

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 19:07:28 -0500

Here's a little "Did you know" for all of you I want to share.

Did you know...

Peanuts are one of the ingredients in dynamite!
There are 293 ways to make change for a dollar.
No word in the English language rhymes with orange, silver or purple.
A cat has 32 muscles in each ear!
Tigers have striped skin, not just striped fur!
Al Capone's business card said he was a used furniture dealer.
A dragonfly has an average lifespan of just 24 hours.
A dime has 118 ridges around its edge.
John Lennon's first girlfriend was named Thelma Pickles.

Now you know. HAPPY FRIDAY!!

JUST LISTED - Crocker Ranch Beauty!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:19:00 -0500

Summer's here! Enjoy oasis in your backyard with a built-in salt-water pool and waterfalls. How about warming up in the evening in front of your own fire pit! This property is in the Gated community of Laureate. Former model home it is well-maintained with designer's touch. Kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances and granite slab counter. Rooms are well proportioned with an added bonus room and loft upstairs. This could be the home you have been dreaming of.

1836 Morella Circle, Roseville, CA 95747, MLS@80061109 (SHORT SALE)

Call Tina Farinas for private showing at 916-208-5718. To view more pictures, visit my website at www.tinafarinas.com

The TRUE Value Of TIME...

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 12:34:17 -0500

We often forget how valuable our time is, until we see it all in perspective. Here's what I mean...

To realize the value of one year, ask a student who has failed a final exam.

To realize the value of one month, ask a mother who has given birth to a premature baby.

To realize the value of one week, ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.

To realize the value of one hour, ask the lovers who are waiting to meet.

To realize the value of one minute, ask the person who has missed the train, bus, or plane.

To realize the value of one second, ask a person who has survived an accident.

To realize the value of one millisecond, ask the person who has won a silver medal in the Olympics.

Time waits for no one. Treasure every moment you have.

A SPECIAL DEDICATION TO EVERYONE AND ALL THE FATHER'S OUT THERE!!!

Just LISTED in Lathrop!!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 12:22:12 -0500

Ready for your family! Located in the picturesque San Joaquin town of Lathrop this four bedroom, two and one half bath home is in a great neighborhood with easy access to highways for commuters. The 2,208 square feet of living space makes the home big enough for a growing family. Built in 2007 by quality builder, KB Homes, this house is still feels and looks new. The centerpiece of the home is the open kitchen family room with stone counters, island with sink, plenty of workspace and a walk-in pantry. In addition the master suite is a great place to relax after a busy day and includes a private bath, double sinks and large closet. Located in a desirable neighborhood, this home is within walking distance to the elementary school.

Details

Address: 339 American Farms Avenue Type: Residential Style: 2 Story Bedrooms: 4 "Large Master" Bathrooms: 3 "1 Half" Garage: Double, Attached "Drive through" Size: 2,208 sq. ft. "Feels even larger!" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 3485 sq. ft. Year Built: 2007 "Still New - KB Homes" MLS®: 80059787

Just LISTED in Elk Grove!!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 12:18:00 -0500

Move-in Ready! It may take some work to get this short sale complete but there will be very little for the successful buyer because this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is clean and ready for your family. The 1, 639 square foot of living space includes a den/study/home office that can be easily converted to a 4th bedroom. The centerpiece of this nice home is the fully equipped kitchen with stone counter tops, an island, plenty of cabinet space and a walk-in pantry. Located in a desirable neighborhood, the home is close to schools, parks and the library.

Details

Address: 6421 Livorno Way Type: Residential Style: Single Story Bedrooms: 3 "Den could be 4th bedroom" Bathrooms: 2 Garage: Double, Attached Size: 1,639 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 5968 sq. ft. n/a "nice lot" Year Built: 2003 "Builder was K Hovnanian" MLS®: 80059371

When was the first Father's Day celebrated?

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 20:25:26 -0500

Here is a trivia for everyone! Does any one know when and where the first Father's Day was celebrated?

The first Father's Day was celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, Washington under the recommendation of Mrs. John B. Dodd. She wanted a special day to commemorate her father William Smart, a Civil War veteran. In 1966, Father's Day became nationally recognized as a holiday.

The Right Selling Price Affects Your Bottom Line

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:54:49 -0500

When you're selling your home, the price you set is a critical factor in the return you'll receive. That's why you need a professional evaluation from an experienced Realtor®. This person can provide you with an honest assessment of your home, based on several factors, including:

Market conditions
Condition of your home
Repairs or improvements
Selling timeframe

In real estate terms, market value is the price at which a particular house, in its current condition, should sell within 30 to 90 days.

If the price of your home is too high, this could cause several things:

Limits buyers. Potential buyers may not view your home because it appears to be out of their buying range.
Limits showings. Other salespeople may be more reluctant to view your home.
Used as leverage. Other Realtors® may use this home to drive the sale of other homes that are better-priced.
Extended stay on the market. When a home is on the market too long, it may be perceived as defective. Buyers may wonder, "what's wrong," or "why hasn't this sold?"
Lower price. An overpriced home, still on the market beyond the average selling time, could lead to a lower selling price. To sell it, you will have to reduce the price - sometimes several times. In the end, you'll probably get less than if it had been properly priced in the first place.
Wasted time and energy. A bank appraisal is most often required to finance a home.

Realtors® have known it for years - well-kept homes that are properly priced in the beginning always get you the fastest sale for the best price! And that's why you need a professional to assist you in the selling of your home.

Often, in a seller's market, homes that are priced slightly below market value initially will sell for more, simply because of the extra interest they incite. This can be a risk, however, and when it comes to such a decision, an experienced, trusted Realtor® is your best ally.

Just Listed!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:58:56 -0500

This nice two bedroom home has a great deal of potential. Excellent for investor or first time home buyer. Just remodeled last year with all new kitchen, bathroom, windows and appliances. New paint inside and upgraded hard wood flooring throughout. The fenced backyard includes patio and patio cover, and plenty of room for a pool and the kids to play. Close to schools, parks, services and Consumnes River College.

Details

Address: 7887 Center Parkway Type: Residential Style: Single Story Bedrooms: 2 "Large Bedrooms" Bathrooms: 1 Garage: Double, Attached Size: 838 sq. ft. "Feels Bigger" Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 6316 sq. ft. Year Built: 1982 "Kitchen Remodeled" MLS®: 80052894

Contact Tina to learn more about the property or visit: www.TinaFarinas.com

Open House This Sunday, June 1st!

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:24:48 -0500

Located in North Sacramento and an established neighborhood. This home is perfect for a family looking to take a piece of California Real Estate. It is a stone throw away from an elementary school. The kitchen is completely remodeled with granite counter top and stainless steel appliances ( REFRIGERATOR excluded). Or if you are into investment this is perfect for you.

Address: 199 Cathcart Avenue Type: Residential Style: Single Story Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 1 "1 Full Bath, 1 1/2 Bath" Garage: Double Size: 1,245 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Year Built: 1960 MLS®: 80049317

Features

Interior Features

▪ Alarm System

▪ Carpeted Floors

▪ Ceiling Fan

Heating

▪ Central Electric

Exterior Finish

▪ Concrete Block

▪ Frame

▪ Wood-Stucco

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Public

Roof

▪ Composition

Lot Features

▪ Cul-de-sac	▪ Fenced Yard	▪ Patio
▪ Trees / Shrubs

Appliances

▪ Dishwasher	▪ Microwave	▪ Washer
▪ Washer/Dryer Hookup

Extra Features

▪ Garage Door Opener

Cooling

▪ Central Air

Please join me on Open House, Sunday June 1st:

1:00 PM - 3:30 PM

If you want a personal tour, give me a call or visit my website to view more pictures.

Tina Farinas

REALTOR®, e-PRO

(916) 208-5718

Visit me at http://www.TinaFarinas.com

Beautiful Single Story Home - Legacy at Doyle Ranch

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 12:50:16 -0500

If you have been looking for the right deal on a great home, this may be the one for you. This Doyle Ranch home built by Pulte in Roseville, CA is approximately 2644 square feet of living space and features 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms.

As you walk to the front door you pass through a beautiful courtyard and then step into a light and spacious home.

Crown molding in living, dining room and Master bedroom, Dual pane window. Huge kitchen.

To see more pictures, visit my website at http: http://TinaFarinas.com or call me for a private showing.

Come join me in the Open House
OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, April 26th from 2:00PM to 4:00 PM

MLS#80035597

Offered by MagnumOne Realty
Agent: Tina Farinas
Cell (916) 208-5718

Save on Home Insurance

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:03:19 -0500

Not all homeowners' insurance policies are created equal. While most policies cover property, liability and loss of use, they don't all cost the same. InsWeb, an online insurance resource, suggests several ways homeowners can save on their insurance premiums.

•Shop around. By comparing coverage and rates from several carriers, you'll know if you're getting the best deal.
•Look for multi-policy discounts. Does your auto insurance company also provide home insurance? Many insurance providers will offer their customers discounts for buying more than one product.

•Only buy the coverage you need. If you don't live in a flood-prone area, for example, you may not need costly flood insurance.

•Review your insurance policy limits once a year. Update your home inventory and notify your agent of any major purchases or additions to your home. Also keep in mind that many insured possessions depreciate over time. As you update your inventory, the value of your possessions could mean more or less coverage.

•Consider raising your deductible. Increasing your deductible by a few hundred dollars can reduce your monthly premium.

•Look for homeowner discounts. If your home has safety features such as dead-bolt locks, fire extinguishers, an alarm system, and smoke detectors, you may be able to get a lower premium. Some insurers also offer discounts to homeowners over age 55 and to smoke-free households.

With the money you save, just think what you can do to increase the value of your home.

Open Your Home to International Students

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 01:25:52 -0500

As part of giving back to my community, I found myself involved as a volunteer of the American Red Cross - Sacramento Chapter (You may have spotted me on KCRA TV during a heavy storm relief telethon that was held by ARC). At the same time, I also decided that I want to give a little bit more - this time in a wider range , so I became active volunteer Area Representative for a non-profit organization called Youth For Understanding. Youth For Understanding (YFU) is one of the world's oldest, largest, and most respected international exchange organizations.

I started out as a Host parent to a 15 year boy from France. That's his picture on the right (He was handpicked by my daughter who saw this as an opportunity to master her French language skills). Our family enjoyed hosting so much because we had the opportunity to pick who we felt would be a perfect match for our family. It also allow my children to understand a different culture and learn patience in as he adapts to our family for the entire school year.

I love it that much that when asked if I would volunteer to be an Area Representative, I jumped at the chance, knowing that I would get to meet other foreign exchange students and learn all about them.

Romain, who has become a very important part of our family life will be missed a great deal when he leaves us to go home at the end of the school year.

As an Area Representative, I become these students and the host families point of contact. I also do my part by calling out to the public for an opportunity to open their homes to these remarkable foreign exchange students as they challenge themselves for a year to learn about our American culture. In exchange they will share their culture with you.

And because my family have adjusted well with Romain, we decided to take on another foreign exchange student from Japan. Hikaru is 17 years old. That's her picture to the left. She shared a room with my only daughter. And they got along very well. We will miss her as well as she leaves to go back home this June.

As this school year is nearing the end, we prepare ourselves to the next upcoming foreign exchange students for the next school year. About 20% of these students have been placed throughout California already. We are currently searching for more families who is willing to open their homes to many students from different cultures.

If you are interested or would like to know more, please contact me. Or you can read all about it by clicking the hyperlink above or clicking the logo below.

A Dash of Panache in Roseville

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:34:01 -0500

Here is a place worth visiting in Roseville, CA. If you ever want to experience a true afternoon tea setting, then you have come to the right place. A Dash of Panache is located in Old Downtown Roseville. This is Roseville's only true Tea Parlor (a French-Deco design with excellent food and great reviews). This tea parlor is used to focus on Women's Events like interactive lunches, and tea sittings (reservations only). The upscale parlor also provides fun events like mystery parties, Ladies Nights Outs, game nights, Mother-Daughter Teas, etc. as well as a place to host full-featured Bridal Showers and Baby Showers. The Vanity Closet allows guests to borrow and dress up in wild hats, glasses, boas, scarves, and other fun accessories that enhance the fun. My first experience here was a treat from my girls when they decided to take me out for a mother-daughter Tea Party "just because". The second experience was for my granddaughter's birthday tea party. (Be forwarned, you are about to see a Realtor/Grandma playing dress up with her granddaughter and daughters.)

Lilly with Auntie Chelsea and "MUM" Tina

Lilly taking a sip of her fine tea while Mommy and Auntie strikes a pose.

I love this place, I find it as a sanctuary, a place to let everything go and just have fun. So if you are ever around town, go and visit there. They are holding their annual Mother's Day Event again this year - see A Dash of Panache information below. But you don't have to wait that long.

*** 4^th ANNUAL MOTHER'S DAY HIGH TEA EVENT ***

Our 4^th Annual Mother's Day High Tea event is now open for reservations! Last year we booked solid a month before the event so please plan ahead! There are currently two sitting times (we might open a 3^rd later), 11am and 2pm (May 11). Bring your mom or grandmother to this memorable event and let her know how special she really is!

Besides being served several courses of wonderful gourmet food (very filling!), the Vanity Closet is open for dress-up and you'll receive a free group photo and individual gift favors!

Simple Recipe to Try

Tina Farinas REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO (MagnumOne Realty) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 21:59:45 -0500

It's been a few days since I put a post up. It wasn't by choice, mind you! I have been bit by the "flu bug" for the third time this year. Today is the first time I actually have a little energy to turn my computer on since last bitten on Monday night. It was my daughter's 17th birthday and I decided to man the kitchen and cook dinner for the family. For all those who don't know me well! I am NOT VERY domestic when it comes to cooking. I like the easy way out - BUY TAKE OUT or EAT OUT!

Since this was a special occassion, I decided to try home cooked meal. Thanks to a friend who shared this very easy recipe for Mexican Lasagna. It is delicious and every everyone enjoyed it - not a crumb was left to salvage.

Ground Turkey (lean) - 2 packages (I used ground beef)

1 can of corn

1 can of diced chilies (used mild but that is up to you)

taco seasoning (I used mild again)

salt and pepper to taste

Garlic salt to taste

chopped red onions

chopped green onions

corn tortillas

reduced fat shredded cheese (taco mix of cheddar & jack - use 2 packages)

chopped tomatoes

sliced avocado

1 small can of tomato sauce

(You can add Tabasco sauce to the meat to make it spicier otherwise it can be pretty mild).

Cook the meat and add all the veggies (except tomatoes and avocado) and let

it simmer for about 10 minutes. Add tomato sauce to keep the meat moist.

Layer: Cut the tortillas in 1/2. In a glass pan, pour some of the tomato

sauce on the bottom, add full size tortillas (about 3). Then layer with the

meat and sprinkle with cheese, add another layer of the 1/2 size tortillas,

add meat and cheese. Continue until the meat is gone. Cover the top layer

with cheese. I add tomatoes to be cooked.

Cook for about 25-30 minutes on 375 (check often to make sure cheese doesn't burn).

For my own added touch, I had to add green olives which has been marinated in olive oil and minced garlic

the last few minutes of cooking time.

Top with sliced avocados, sour cream.

ENJOY AND HEARTY EATING!