Big Bear Real Estate Blog

Buyer's, Seller's and Lister's

2008-07-01T14:15:22Z

Buyer's often ask the question "What should I offer?" before they find a specific house that they want to place an offer on. They want to know the formula for the list price verses the actual purchase price that they will pay. They ask questions like "If we shop in the $400,000 range, what price do you think we can get it for?" I always respond the same. It depends on the house and if it is priced correctly. How long has the house been on the market at this price? This is a more important question than, "How long has the house been on the market?"

Home owners don't have to price their home correctly, they just won't sell their house until they do. Maybe we should just call them Lister's. Unlike seller's, Lister's waste an agents time and inflate the price's of other Lister's.

Question's that I ask a home owner that says they want to sell is "Do you want to list your home, or sell it?" Do you want to be a lister or a seller? When do you want me to start telling you the truth?

Once I have explained to a buyer that selling prices are set by the market and not the sellers or their agent, I will let them know that sellers and their agents will list property (incorrectly) based upon other criteria. They will list based upon the debt on the property, what they paid, the improvements that they have done, the amount that their neighbor (a lister) has listed at, what they need or want to have to be able to fulfill their future plans etc. This is a mistake that will cost the Lister's money in the long run, if they ever sell.

Keep in mind that a lister is in charge of what price they will ask, but the buyer will decide how much the house will sell for. Lister's are different than seller's, because they don't need to sell.

We have a lot of Lister's in our current market. With 1207 homes on the market and only 51 closings in June, it appears that we have about 4% sellers and 96% Lister's.

One thing is for sure, you can sell your house if you are willing to price it correctly.

So, back to the question, "What should I offer?"

Once you have found that house you want to buy, the question really is, what is the current market value?

Spend time looking at homes in the area that you want to buy.
Have your agent show you recent comparable sales.
Be reasonable based upon the information that you have collected.
Ask your agent their opinion.
Have your agent contact the seller/Lister's agent to see if there has been any activity previously that will help understand the seller's motivation.

Some good numbers to know in Big Bear

Year to date sales prices vs. list price / price differential.

Area Percentage #of sales

Big Bear Lake (West , Central and East) 80.58% 56

Moonridge 93.47% 61

Fox Farm 76.16% 25

Sugarloaf 92.27% 44

Fawnskin 92.38% 8

Big Bear City 97.11% 55

Erwin Lake 91.45% 26

Whispering Forest 94.85% 1

Baldwin Lake 96.39% 4

Steve Hirschler

Big Bear Market Specialist / Inventory Expert

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

43846 Canyon Crest, Moonridge Area with Ski Slope Views, Big Bear Lake

2008-06-29T18:55:05Z

ONE OF THE BEST AVAILABLE SKI SLOPE VIEWS FROM THIS MOONRIDGE GET-AWAY. THIS CABIN HAS ROOM FOR A BIG GROUP. MANY UPGRADES INCLUDING SLATE FLOORING, T&G VAULTED CEILINGS,STACK WASHER/DRYER, HOT TUB,DISHWASHER,LARGE DECK W/UNBEATABLE MTN VIEWS. THIS HOME HAS BEEN A SUCCESSFUL RENTAL. BRING YOUR PET..FENCED BACKYARD. HIGH QUALITY STORAGE SHED INCLUDED.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Moonridge Area, Big Bear Real Estate Market Snapshot

2008-06-29T18:46:20Z

As shown above, currently there are 18 pending sales in the Moonridge area.

59 properties have sold year to date in Moonridge.

Closed Sales have included:

7 under $200,000

21 between $200,000 - $300,000

17 between $300,000 - $400,000

7 between $400,000 - $500,000

2 between $500,000 - $600,000

1 between $600,000 - $700,000

2 between $700,000 - $1,000,000

2 over $1,000,000

Interesting Facts

We have 216 active listings in the Moonridge area. Using the average sales of 10 per month through June, the absorption rate tells us the we have a 21 month supply.
Closing prices are within 7% of list price.
Almost 65% of the sales in Moonridge are now under $400,000.
With 271 residential sales in Big Bear, Moonridge has had 21.8% of the total number of sales year to date.
Last year in the same period Moonridge sales where only 17.5% of the total, that is a 24.5% increase over last year.

If you would like to discuss Real Estate in the Big Bear area, feel free to e-mail or call me.

Steve Hirschler

Moonridge Market Specialist

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Real questions and Real answers regarding Real Estate Commissions.

2008-06-15T12:35:47Z

Worrying about what you pay, instead of what you get, is a mistake that will cost a seller thousands in the current Real Estate market.

Pick a quality agent from a local brokerage and expect professional service.
List with a discount brokerage and expect a discounted offer.
Put a sign in your yard that says "I'm cheap" or "I'm desperate" and expect cheap buyers writing cheap offers.

Q. Is a Real Estate commission negotiable?

A. Yes. First let's look at the services being provided and the costs that are associated with them. We should talk about the commission that you are requesting and I will need to decide whether or not I am willing to work for the commission that you want to pay. It's a business decision for both of us.

Q. Should I increase the commission offered to the buyers agent?

A. No. The commission must be the same as other homes in the area and price range, and anything above that should be applied to a price reduction. Extra commissions are bonuses, but I can't sell a house because it pays me more.

Q. Will you list my house for a lower commission?

A. Yes. The commission is negotiable. If we set the price well below market value to reduce the costs associated with marketing the house. Most seller's would benefit from listing closer to market value and paying the extra commission.

Q. What if you list the house and sell it, will you take less?

A. No. If we are lucky enough for this to happen Mr. Seller, you win. If I bring a qualified buyer to your house and we have the luxury of having the agent the knows the house the best show it, you win. If I can tell them why it is worth the list price and show them the comparables that where used to establish the list price, you win.

Q. What is more important, the price or the commission?

A. The Price. Don't make the mistake of focusing on commission when listing your house. Pricing your home correctly is the single most important factor in determining when or if your home sells.

If you are a seller and your first concern is the commission (big red flag) , you will start out with the wrong agent and end up with less money in your pocket. Experienced agents want to help you get the most they can for your property and just want a fair commission from the close of the deal.

Seller's that allow their agent to guide them through the sales process will benefit. Successful Real Estate agents in today's market bring local knowledge and transaction skills that net sellers more and provide smooth timely closings. If you want less service and less knowledge, go with a discount service, and expect to get what you pay for.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

465 Crystal Lake, Big Bear Lake, Fox Farm Area

2008-06-15T11:47:51Z

GREAT VALUE ON THIS FOX FARM HOME. 2 CAR DETACHED GARAGE PLUS CARPORT. DETACHED GUEST AREA WITH 1/2 BATH IS THE 3RD BEDROOM. CORNER LOT IS CENTRALLY LOCATED MINUTES FROM BOTH SKI AREAS,RESTAURANTS AND SHOPPING. FAMILY ROOM WITH WET BAR AND LIVING ROOM BOTH HAVE WOOD BURNING FIREPLACES. LOTS OF PINE TREES AND QUIET LOCATION. WASHER/DRYER HOOKUPS AND FURNISHED PER INVENTORY.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

What is the difference between a good faith deposit and a down payment?

2008-06-07T11:32:05Z

Often buyers have asked me this question, so I thought I would write a post on this subject.

In California a good faith deposit is given at the time an offer is made. A good faith deposit will show a seller that you are a serious buyer, and building the seller's trust is important. A deposit paid by a buyer to a seller to demonstrate intention to complete the purchase. also called earnest money. While good faith deposits can be as little as one dollar, I recommend a 3% good faith deposit. When I review an offer for a seller, the good faith deposit gives me an idea as to the strength of the buyer, and a weak deposit sends up a red flag. The good faith deposit is held in the escrow. The liquidated damage clause (if initialed by both the buyer and seller) states that if the buyer fails to complete the purchase because of buyer default, the seller shall retain the good faith deposit not to exceed 3%. If the liquidated damages are not initialed and the buyer breaches the contract, the seller could sue for more than the 3% if the sller can prove default by the buyer. Contingencies must be removed in writing before a buyer is in default. If the buyer has not removed their contingencies and has stated one of the contingencies as their reason for not performing, the seller is not entitled to retain the good faith deposit. If you want to get the sellers attention, and purchase the property at the best price, the good faith deposit can help. Weak good faith deposits tell the seller that you may be a buyer that is not qualified, lacking funds to close, or fishing on a number of different properties. The good faith deposit will be applied to the down payment and closing costs at the close of escrow.

Down payments are paid as final funds at the close of escrow. Depending on the loan amount down payments can be any amount. Obviously the larger a down payment the stronger the offer. All cash offers are the strongest offers, but a well qualified buyer with a strong down payment of 20% are welcomed by most sellers and lenders. With new lender requirements a strong down payment helps reduce the risk for the lender by creating equity in the property and decreasing the loan to value equation.

If you would like to discuss Big Bear Real Estate , please give me a call.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

What is an REO?

2008-05-31T13:05:35Z

Many consumers are unclear with some of the terms in today's Real Estate market.

"REO" (Real estate owned) is property that the bank acquires through foreclosure. The bank has already had an auction on the property and did not find a buyer. Currently REO properties are abundant in most California markets. These homes are often priced well and represent some of the best values.

REO's are far easier transactions than short sale properties. REO escrows are often completed in 30 days or less.

One problem the banks are having with properties in the Big Bear area is our member only MLS (Multiple Listing Service) access. Many local Realtors only see the properties that are listed in the Big Bear MLS and are unaware of REO properties that are listed in other areas. It really is a disservice to the bank that owns the property to not have the home listed in the local MLS. Access to these properties is sometimes difficult for local agents, because it can be difficult to connect with the agent that is out of the area to get the showing instructions.

One solution that works well in this situation is for the out of the area listing agent to team up with a local agent that is available and knowledgeable in the Big Bear Real Estate market.

Most bank owned properties have an addendum that is presented to the buyer as a counter offer. Usually the addendum reduces the contingency period for buyers inspections to 5 - 7 days. Most bank owned REO properties are sold "AS IS". Buyers that need a loan to purchase a Bank owned REO may be required to pre-qualify with the bank that is selling the property.

Just because a property is a REO doesn't make it a deal. Most are, but you still need to do the research and establish value. Some hit the market and have multiple offers in the first week, while others just sit. It is the same old story, pricing is the most important thing your Big Bear Real Estate agent can do to help make the sale.

First impressions are everything, so I would think that a little cleanup would benefit the seller (bank). having the utilities on and the yard cleaned up of debris will help a buyer see the potential of the property. I see quite a few of these properties that are literally trashed and no attempt is being made to do any cleanup. Without power or water it is difficult for the buyers to inspect the property.

Recently, I got a copy of an addendum on a bank owned property that states that the buyer will be responsible to pay for all aspects of the transaction and the selection of services. I told my buyer that we would just need to reduce our offer to accommodate these fees.

On another recent transaction with a bank owned property the bank chose the escrow company and selected a company that is 2 hours away from the property. I think that the banks are selling off the escrow rights to all of their properties in bulk. This nets the escrow and title company a predetermined / negotiated fee for each property and reduces service levels. The escrow company is very busy and doesn't seem to push things along, the bank has a Per Diem charge daily to the buyer if we don't close on time.

If you are looking at bank owned properties or short sale properties in Big Bear, be prepared to exercise patients once you find the property that you want to make an offer on.

Opportunities are abundant, but don't try to bring an out of the area agent to a location like Big Bear and expect to get the best deal or knowledge of the area. The Tim Wood Group sells Big Bear and we know the inventory and the Real Estate market that we work.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Is anything selling in Big Bear? 5/27/2008

2008-05-27T15:03:09Z

Sold year to date in Baldwin Lake, Big Bear City, Big Bear Lake Central, Big Bear Lake East, Big Bear Lake West, Erwin Lake, Fawnskin, Fox Farm, Lake Williams, Moonridge, Sugarloaf, and Whispering Forest.

QUICK FACTS

Closed residential sales in 2008 for Big Bear Valley. 210 sold YTD as of 5/27/2008.
Average list to sold price is 95%.
Average days on the market 140.
There are 105 pending (in escrow) and 1188 active listings.
The top 3 highest price sales YTD have had representation by Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery Realtors / The Tim Wood Group.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

What is a short sale?

2008-05-24T11:05:11Z

A simple description of a short sale is a home that is on the market for less than the debt owed to the lender. The seller is hoping that the bank(s) will accept less than the note(s) and allow the seller to be forgiven the difference between the note and the sales price.

When the seller accepts a short sale offer, the sale is contingent on the approval of the bank that holds the note. At this point the home should show a pending status in the MLS since it has an accepted offer. The bank doesn't own the home, they approve the sale and accept the loss on the note or they don't approve and the seller can cancel the escrow because of the short sale contingency. Often a response from the bank can take 40 - 60 days. This can be very frustrating for a buyer and their agent.

Buyer's should be cautioned not to make multiple short sale offers once they have an accepted offer. If a seller approves the offer, technically you have opened an escrow in California and have a binding contract. That is why the contract reads California Residential Purchase Agreement and Joint Escrow Instructions. Placing additional offers on other properties while waiting for the bank approval is not recommended.

Sellers that want to sell a home in a short sale situation should start negotiations with the bank holding the note(s) prior to getting an offer / as early as possible. Good comunication with the lender will be crucial to a successful short sale.

Below is a set of paperwork that I give to my sellers that might need a short sale:

Preparation and communication are critical to the success of your short sale transaction.

Regards,

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Big Bear Video Tour

2008-05-22T13:32:25Z

Big Bear Lake is near full and a great place to visit and get out of the summer heat. We have cabins in Big Bear starting under $200,000. I can show you any home in Big Bear regardless of the listing agents. For a free search of the Big Bear MLS listings with no obligation, just click here Big Bear MLS search

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

San Bernardino County Real Estate Sales Information April 2008

2008-05-20T16:59:01Z

In April Big Bear's Moonridge area was the highest price per square foot sold in all of San Bernardino County and Big Bear Lake is in the second slot. Big Bear's beautiful lake and pleasant weather continue to draw visitors consistently through the summer months.

If you know anyone that is looking to buy or sell Real Estate in the Big Bear area, please give me a call.

Regards,

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Big Bear Real Estate 10 year deed recording information 5/20/2008

2008-05-20T14:26:54Z

Year	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	Monthly	10 Year	2008	% of
Year	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	Rank	Average	2008	Average


Jan	96	125	125	158	130	194	163	128	139	77	12	134	44	33%
Feb	97	126	158	128	148	169	173	147	112	80	11	134	43	32%
Mar	132	183	174	168	187	197	219	186	118	99	9	166	59	35%
Apr	110	159	169	150	213	227	238	170	131	81	10	165	65	39%
May	129	151	193	182	269	200	268	171	132	99	8	179		0%
Jun	154	161	198	207	224	199	246	188	148	78	7	180		0%
Jul	188	195	180	187	247	228	275	171	108	95	6	187		0%
Aug	185	191	256	264	292	246	263	198	159	106	1	216		0%
Sep	202	231	248	199	274	281	263	228	121	82	2	213		0%
Oct	216	188	270	224	302	227	236	199	123	77	3	206		0%
Nov	221	227	217	187	241	231	224	192	115	87	4	194		0%
Dec	179	237	194	199	276	216	214	186	111	68	5	188		0%
Total	1909	2174	2382	2253	2803	2615	2782	2164	1517	1029		2163	211	10%

Yr Rank	8	6	4	5	1	3	2	7	9	10

2006 vs. 2007 68%

This is the latest information for deed recording activity in the Big Bear area. As you can see, the number of recordings is still well below the 10year average. Year to date we are 37% below 2007 recordings and 58% below 2006. While we have seen a slight increase in April over January Februray and March 2008 numbers, we still can't say that the market has improved. Traditionally April is busier than the first three months of the year, so a slight increase in transactions is to be expected. According to the Big Bear MLS 50 of the 65 deed recordings were residential, and 6 were vacant land. There was one condo sold in April, 2 commercial, and one business. If you would like to discuss Real Estate in Big Bear, please give me a call.

Regards,

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

Home for sale 1506 Wolf Road, Big Bear Lake, Moonridge Area

2008-05-16T13:58:20Z

OUTSTANDING SKI SLOPE AND LAKE VIEWS, NEW ROOF, OVER SIZED 2 CAR DETACHED GARAGE, 4 OFF STREET PARKING SPOTS, FRESH PAINT ON EXTERIOR AND DECKS, FULLY FURNISHED AS SHOWN INCLUDING POOL TABLE, 4 LARGE BEDROOMS WITH VALTED CEILINGS,STORAGE AREA UNDER HOUSE W/ WORKSHOP & ATTIC ABOVE GARAGE, GREAT MOONRIDGE LOCATION. WATCH THE SKIER'S FROM THE LIVING ROOM OR DECK. SECLUDED BACK DECK

Regards,

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Spin the bottle.

2008-05-11T18:43:50Z

It seems sellers want to use every type of method to price their home except the market conditions. You might as well sit down and play spin the bottle.

The other players at the table are:

I owe this much. (Check out my new car and boat)

I want this much. ( I think you can sell a Yugo for $50,000 if you run an ad on the Superbowl)

I need this much. (Buyers care how much I need)

I don't really need to sell. ( I just want to waste your time and money)

My brother is an agent in another state and he said its worth .... (and he knows more about this market than you do)

The house across the street is priced at ......(it's been on the market for 2 years with no offers)

Pricing your home with any method other than market conditions and comparable sales will result in loosing the shirt off your back, your socks and possibly your shorts.

If you are looking to sell in Big Bear, pricing your property correctly is the single most important thing your agent can help you with.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

FLIP VIDEO / Big Bear Moonridge Minute(s), April 2008 SOLD

2008-05-11T16:21:20Z

Moonridge Area of Big Bear Lake Market Minute(s). This video talks about what has sold during the month of April 2008 in Moonridge. Look for another Moonridge Minute(s) in early June covering the month of May. If you want more information or would like to discuss the Big Bear Real Estate market, please give me a call.

Regards,

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

Bring your checkbook.

2008-05-11T10:50:14Z

If you are shopping for a mountain home here in Big Bear, bring your checkbook. There are houses that sell in the first 2 weeks on the market, and then there are homes that reach the correct price and suddenly become the best deal. Either way, the ability to recognize these deals comes from inventory knowledge. Buyer's in this market will need an agent that is up to date on the ever changing Big Bear Real Estate inventory. If you are a seller in this market, get ready to play hard ball.

42220 Evergreen, Big Bear Lake,CA listed at $650,000 in escrow. On the market 11 days.

Price your house based on anything other than market conditions and you will fail. You will be one of the other 1100 overpriced listings. Buyers are ruthless and want the very best value. Once identified, these houses receive action.

317 Sites Way, Big Bear City, listed at $219,900 in escrow.

If you plan to come back next weekend and buy that deal you saw today, don't expect it to be here. We have finally got to the point that some sellers are getting it. They are pricing ahead of the turn and they are being rewarded. The competition is often back owned or short sale.

934 Myrtle, Big Bear City listed at $219,900 in escrow.

The last 4 buyers (in the past 30 days) that I have represented all together were only 3.08% off of list price with their purchase price.

They all got great deals.

If your criteria is to feel like a winner because you bought a house 20% below the list price, tell your agent you want to go look at the overpriced listings.

517 Mountain View, Big Bear City listed at $274,900 in escrow.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com

Free search for Big Bear Real Estate, Homes for sale

2008-04-29T17:59:03Z

"FREE" No Obligation Home Search Big Bear MLS


	Search our extensive inventory of available properties. All information is current and available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Approximately 1683 listings now available. Select a search that most suits what you are looking for.
Search for Single Family
Search for Vacant Land
Search for Mobil Home
Search for Condo
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STEVE HIRSCHLER

COLDWELL BANKER/MOUNTAIN GALLERY

42153 BIG BEAR BLVD.

P.O. BOX 6820

BIG BEAR LAKECA92315

Phone: 909 866-3481 Cell: 909 725-5889

Fax: 909 866-3531Email: steve@bigbeargallery.com

Steve Sells Big Bear

All information provided by Listing Agent/Broker is deemed reliable,but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.

I want to buy a house, not an agent or agency!

2008-04-26T12:53:28Z

Consumers start their home search online and aren't looking for an agent, they are looking for a house. We Realtors need to understand this to be effective in our business.

80% of buyers start their search for a home (not an agent) on the internet.

75% plan to buy in 120 days or less.

70% of these buyers don't have a Realtor.

Show buyers the homes that they like and they will buy them.

As Realtors, we provide information and educate our clients on the Real Estate market. We don't sell houses, we educate buyers and sellers.

Buyers don't want to be persuaded to buy the house you want to sell. Buyers want their agent to find the house that fits their needs and wants.

If you are a Realtor your advertising should focus on homes and properties and not you and your personality. I think your clients can see quickly your dedication and knowledge, but they won't find you if your advertising isn't about homes and land in your area.

In Real Estate we tend to focus on the agent, their abilities and past accomplishments and not always the homes we sale. I realize that agents that have the best homes at the correct prices will produce the most sales. That is why I am not interested in listing overpriced homes, or homes that do not appeal to the buyers in the market.

I want to represent buyers and sellers, but I have no problem taking my client to the best home regardless of the agent or agency. If the home is a fit for the client then I have done that part of my job correctly. Sellers that ask why I didn't you show my home need to understand that the buyer picks the criteria of the homes that they want to see.

If the buyer wants a Log Style home and you own a Victorian, I won't show them your home. If the buyer says single story, I will not take them to your 3 story home.

Many buyers in this market are only driven by price. These buyers will buy homes that don't appeal to the average buyer if they are priced to overcome the obstacle.

Homes that are priced correctly, easy to show, neat and clean are always the first to sell.

If you can't be easy to show, or neat and clean, you can always fix it with the price.

5 Great Big Bear Homes under $200,000 4/25/2008

2008-04-25T16:50:50Z

These are my picks for the 5 best homes under $200,000 list price in the Big Bear area. Just click on the link below to see the details and additional photos of each property.

Details on these 5 properties

784 Imperial, Sugarloaf Virtual Tour , You Tube Video Tour

440 Maltby, Big Bear City Virtual Tour , You Tube Video Tour

638 Elysian, Big Bear City

2090 4th, Big Bear City

506 Leonard, Sugarloaf Virtual Tour

These homes are priced well. I am available to show these or any home listed for sale in the Big Bear area. Please give me a call.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

5 Great Big Bear Homes under $250,000 4/25/2008

2008-04-25T14:53:22Z

These are my picks for the 5 best homes under $250,000 list price in the Big Bear area. Just click on the link below to see the details and additional photos of each property.

Details on these 5 properties

2008 Manzanita Lane, Big Bear City

1171 Alta Vista, Moonridge

882 Pnie, Big Bear City

867 D Lane, Big Bear City

2364 State Lane, Big Bear City

RES 8-Photo (MLX)

These homes are priced well. I am available to show these or any home listed for sale in the Big Bear area. Please give me a call.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

882 Pine, Big Bear City,CA Great Value!

2008-04-24T19:18:54Z

GREAT HOME ON CORNER LOT WITH 1 CAR ATTACHED GARAGE AND FENCED YARD. LOTS OF TREES AND GOOD SIZE LIVING ROOM AND DINING AREA. WASHER DRYER HOOKUPS IN HALLWAY CLOSET AREA. VAULTED CEILING IN LIVING ROOM. THIS HOME WOULD BE A GREAT MOUNTAIN GET-A-WAY OR FULL TIME RESIDENCE. FURNISHED PER INVENTORY.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

Video of Big Bear Cabin for Sale

2008-04-22T13:19:01Z

BIG BEAR LAKE CENTRAL LOCATION, WALK TO THE NATIONAL FOREST,LAKE AND VILAGE. MEADOW AND LAKE VIEWS OFF OF THE BACK DECK. LARGE LOT THAT BACKS TO A LARGE PARCEL. SIERRASTYLE, VAULTED CEILINGS, WOOD INTERIOR, FURNISHED PER INVENTORY, DETTACHED GARAGE FOR THE TOYS, VACATIONAL RENTAL, WASHER/DRYER HOOKUPS.

Steve Hirschler

Associate, The Tim Wood Group

Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery

42153 Big Bear Blvd.

P.O. BOX 6820

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

Large View lot in Big Bear Area, Baldwin Lake

2008-04-22T08:36:00Z

LARGE LOT WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS, SECLUDED LOCATION. PRICED TO SELL QUICKLY,SELLER IS MOTIVATED, ONE OF THE LARGEST VIEW LOTS AT THIS PRICE,BACKS TO BLM NATIONAL FOREST. LOT NEXT DOOR IS OWNED BY THE SAME OWNER AND IS ALSO ON THE MARKET. EASY ACCESS OFF OF BALDWIN LAKE ROAD.

Steve Hirschler, agent

Coldwell Banker, The Tim Wood Group

Steve Sells Big Bear

909 866 3481 office

909 725 5889 cell

Mountain Biking in Big Bear, the season is here.

2008-04-15T16:30:22Z

I have been out mountain biking this past week. Most of the snow has melted off of the trails on the north shore. Van Dusen Canyon and Holcomb Valley are easily passed through, with only a few patches of snow in the shaded areas. I also rode up Polique Canyon to Holcomb Valley and it is dry. Grout bay trail has some good water flow, so you'll have to negotiate the stream crossings on the trail. The burn areas are depressing, but the trail is usable.

As far as the South Shore areas, I have only taken one ride so far. I rode up 2N10, turned left on 2N17 and followed 2N17 to 2N08. Then I followed 2N08 to the top and turned left on 2N10. I stayed on 2N10 and rode over to the Bear Mountain resort and down Clubview drive. There were areas of snow on the road and I had to walk 50 yards or less a few times. It was impossible to ride through these snow patched areas without crashing ( I found out the hard way).

I just ordered a mount for my FLIP VIDEO so that I can take some video on my rides soon. I will keep you posted.

If you want to visit Big Bear and ride, give me a call and I can let you know about the conditions etc.

steve@bigbeargallery.com

909 866-3481 EXT. 217 CELL 909 725-5889

Fax 909 866-3531

http://www.stevesellsbigbear.com/

Let's Go Mountain Mountain Biking in Big Bear

2008-04-15T16:19:14Z

Lets Go Mountain Biking in Big Bear

If you have never had the opportunity to get out on a mountain bike in Big Bear, you're in for a new adventure. Riding at 7000+ foot elevation will limit your first few rides to a few miles unless you are lucky enough to live here and be acclimated to the altitude. Mountain biking has great fitness advantages, but the mental stability that it gives me far exceeds the physical advantages. I seem to not be able to think about anything other than completing the climb or watching for the next corner when I get on my bike. Big Bear has some of Southern California's best mountain bike trails and I have been on most. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and take plenty of water. Let your family or friends know what route you will be taking. Always wear your helmet and sunscreen.

If you have a home in the Peter Pan Area of Big Bear City

A great starter ride is the Van Dusen Canyon Road off of North Shore drive. There is a small parking area just before the gate (closed in the winter months) that you can use if you are not within riding distance. I would recommend a steady pace up Van Dusen Canyon until you meet up with the 3N16 forest service road. Along the way you'll pass the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail). The views are beautiful along the road and the incline is not too extreme. Once you reach 3N16, your probably ready to turn around and ride back, if not continue on through Holcomb Valley and explore.

Moonridge Home Owners will love this Big Bear Mountain Bike Ride

A great ride leaving to go mountain biking from areas in Moonridge is up Clubview to 2N10 Skyline Drive and the Grandview Loop . Riding up Clubview or Moonridge Road you will pass the Big Bear Mountain Golf Course , the Moonridge Zoo , and Bear Mountain Ski Resort . These attractions are definitely good reasons to consider a home in the Moonridge area of Big Bear. The ride up the San Bernardino Forest Service road 2N10 is steep for beginner mountain bikers but it is well worth the ride to the top. Once you reach the top you will have unobstructed views of San Gorgonio on the left and Big Bear Lake on the right side.. From here you can select from many different descents down the mountain that will take you back to town. One of my favorites would be down 1E01 a single track trail that takes you to the Mill Creek area of Big Bear area near the Alpine Slide . You will find 1E01 at the intersection of Grandview Junction. If not take 2N08 or 2N51Y down the hill. These both come together and will take you to Towne Trail. Follow Towne Trail east to the Snow Summit parking area.

Having a Cabin in Big Bear gives you unlimited Mountain Bike Trails

I can't begin to give information on all of the trails that are available to Big Bear home owners. I am sure there are many that I am not even aware exsist. That's one of the amazing qualities of Big Bear. Many things to do and explore we truly have four seasons of fun. So come up and get going and start to enjoy all of the outdoor activities in Big Bear. You know what they say....If you're lucky enough to live in the mountains, you're lucky enough.