Michael's Blog

EAGLE GLEN - CORONA - OPEN HOUSE - JULY 25TH 1-4PM

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:22:06 -0500

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

1551 Beacon Ridge Way, Corona, CA

OPEN HOUSE - SAT, JULY 25 1-4PM

4BR/4BA Single Family House

offered at $539,900

Year Built	2002
Sq Footage	3,829
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	4 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	11,325 sqft
HOA/Maint	$82 per month

DESCRIPTION

WHAT A GREAT DEAL!! Reviewing all offers priced between $499,900 and $539,900. Best Buy in Eagle Glen! Don't miss out on this opportunity to own your Executive dream home. Extra large tiles & upgraded berber carpet through-out, gourmet kitchen w/ 5 burner gas cook top, granite counter top w/ full designer's backsplash tiles, large stainless steel sink, upgraded kitchen faucet, & extra large island. Gorgeous property consists of downstairs office, large utility room with sink and cabinets, open cathedral ceiling in living room and hall way, double door entrance, front covered patio area, large loft upstairs, and extra extra large back yard with huge patio area! Full 4 bathrooms with vanity lights & Marble counter top in main floor bathroom. View of the city lights from the back while view of the Cleveland National Forest and mountains from the front. Close to golf courses, Dos Lagos, Corona Crossings, parks, school, & so much more.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central A/C	• Central heat	• Fireplace
• High/Vaulted ceiling	• Walk-in closet	• Tile floor
• Family room	• Living room	• Bonus/Rec room
• Office/Den	• Dining room	• Breakfast nook
• Dishwasher	• Stove/Oven	• Microwave
• Granite countertop	• Stainless steel appliances	• Laundry area - inside
• Balcony, Deck, or Patio	• Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

• Eagle Glen Beauty!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 22, 2009, 8:45am PDT

Eastvale Cityhood Incorporation Fundraiser!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:42:47 -0500

Eastvale Incorporation Fundraiser!!

At the San Antonio Winery in Ontario!

Sample, Taste & Enjoy 10 different wines

Eastvale Cityhood Benefit

Date	April 26, 2008
	5:30 to 8:00
Where	San Antonio Winery Tasting Room
Address	2802 S Milliken Ave
	Ontario, CA 91761
Pricing	$50 per person
	$90 per couple
	$5 additional at door

DESCRIPTION

The Eastvale Incorporation Committee is hosting a fundraiser to raise money for the cityhood incorporation effort. Your tax deductible donation gets you an evening of wine tasting, appetizers and fun at the San Antonio Winery tasting room on Milliken Avenue. All proceeds will benefit the Eastvale Incorporation Committee

TICKET PURCHASES

Jeff DeGrandpre

jdegrandpre@eastvaleinc.org

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT EASTVALE INCORPORATION

www.EastvaleInc.ORG

COME JOIN US FOR GREAT FUN --- AND SUPPORT A GREAT CIVIC EFFORT!

Posted By:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

TOO LATE!! 1005 Driftwood Street, Corona, CA 92880

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 01:38:44 -0500

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

1005 Driftwood Street, Corona, CA

Beautiful Country Club Lane Area!

3 Bedroom Single-Level Family Home

offered at $298,800 (Short-Sale!

Year Built	1966
Sq Footage	1,452 Square Foot Home
Bedrooms	3 Large Bedrooms
Bathrooms	2 Full Baths
Floors	Single Level Living
Parking	2 Car Direct-Access Garage
Lot Size	7,405 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

GORGEOUS PROPERTY - RUN, RUN, RUN!!! Fantastic upgraded cook's kitchen with beautiful stainless steel appliances makes cooking a dream! Enjoy cozying up to the wood burning fireplace on those cool nights, watch some TV in the den or enjoy al fresco dining on the large brick backyard patio. How about a quiet dinner in the formal dining room? Feel pampered with your upgraded vanities and tile in both baths - your tile goes to the ceiling! Don't like parking outside? You have direct garage access! Room for an RV or boat - oh yes! Like to gaze at the nighttime stars or city lights? You have easy access thru the master bedroom sliders! And master bedroom privacy? Yup - the other bedrooms are on the opposite side of the house! This great home is just waiting for you - take a look at the photos and schedule your visit! Make this YOUR home!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Tile floor	Living room
Office/Den	Dining room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Stainless steel appliances	Attic	Laundry area - garage
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Gorgeous Chef's Kitchen - Top of the Line!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Eastvale Town Hall Meeting - April 15, 2008

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 11:30:03 -0500

Just a reminder to all my friends in the neighborhood that it's that time again! You should be done with your taxes by then :-) so no excuses not to attend and be an active member of the community. This is a perfect forum for you to get up-to-the-minute updates on what's happening in our growing community. You can even ask questions of our community representatives - so be heard, be responsible, be present!

The agenda is as follows:

Supervisor Tavaglione's staff
Corona-Norco Unified School District by Beverly How & Sherry Mata (to discuss district budget)
California Highway Patrol
Riverside County Sheriff's Dept.
Nexus Development by Cory Alder & Rob Eres
Jurupa Community Services District Update by Kathie Bogart
Eastvale Incorporation Update by Jeff DeGrandpre
Code Enforcement

The Cellar and Peju Province Winery

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 16:21:03 -0500

I thought I would share with you the following note I received
from my friend Ryan at 'The Cellar' in Fullerton, CA

Wine & More Dinner Series Continues
With Peju Province Winery

April 23, 2008
6:30 p.m.

I want to invite you to join me for a special evening with Lisa Peju of Peju Province Winery as we present a selection of wines from thier collection. Peju creates some of my favorite wines from the Napa Valley and I am excited for you to taste these great wines and meet Lisa Peju. My executive Chef David Kesler has created a custom menu from which each course will be paired with a selected varietal. Join me in experiencing an evening of food, wine, elegance, and of course fun at The Cellar.

Peju, founded in 1982 by Tony and Herta Peju, is a family-owned boutique winery located in the Rutherford Appellation. Peju produces award-winning wines, which include the flagship HB Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Zinfandel, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Provence, a proprietary blend of red and white varietals. Peju wines are hand-crafted using fruit organically farmed from our Rutherford Estate Vineyard and their sustainably farmed Persephone Vineyard.

I look forward to dining with you soon,

Ryan Dudley
Proprietor
The Cellar Restaurant
www.cellardining.com

Call (714) 525-5682 or reply by email today to make your reservations.

BIO

Lisa Peju

You may recognize Lisa from her popular ads that run in the San Francisco Chronicle and various other wine country publications. Lisa’s passion and love for her family’s business shines through in every photo.

The Peju’s Rutherford vineyard has been home to Lisa since she was six years old. It was then that she moved with her parents from Southern California to wine country to begin a life devoted to growing grapes, producing high-quality wines and finding new and innovative ways to market the family brand.

Lisa spent her childhood attending Napa Valley schools during the day and tending to the vineyard in the evenings and on weekends. It wasn’t uncommon to see Lisa and her sister Ariana driving the family four-wheeler along the property’s dirt paths with piles of grapes in the back bed.

After graduating from St. Helena High School, Lisa first attended Marymount College in Palos Verdes and then U.C. Santa Barbara to study marketing and graphic design with plans of becoming a computer animator. But a summer trip to Paris in 1998 to study French at Sorbonne University with Ariana planted the seeds for another calling. Three years later, the French language came in handy as HB took her daughters to VIN EXPO in Bordeaux, the largest wine Exposition in the World. Lisa enjoyed promoting Peju’s wines so much that she decided to change career paths and join the family business as a marketing and public relations ambassador.

The position was a perfect fit, and it meant that Lisa would play an integral role in carrying on the family tradition of producing award-winning wines into the future.

Since joining Peju in 2001, Lisa has traveled throughout Europe and Asia, including Japan, Korea and Hong Kong, representing Peju. In the United States, Lisa has blanketed the map and led the charge to reach younger customers – Peju’s consumers of the future.

From beyond the Napa Valley, Lisa brings Peju wines to homes and businesses across the world.

TOO LATE!! 1094 Border Avenue, Corona, CA 92882

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 10:38:03 -0500

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

1094 Border Avenue, Corona, CA 92882

Fantastic Short Sale Opportunity in Village Grove Association!

2 Bedroom Condo

offered at $139,900 (Short-Sale)

Year Built	1975
Sq Footage	1,074
Bedrooms	2 Bedrooms
Bathrooms	2 Full Baths
Floors	Single Level
Parking	2 Car Attached Garage
Lot Size	2,613 sqft
HOA/Maint	$240 per month

DESCRIPTION

This is a SINGLE STORY CLUSTER HOME, PRIVATELY TUCKED AWAY on a greenbelt with its own 2-car garage and only one attached wall. The kitchen is a joy with TONS of counter-space and cupboards, tile counters, backsplash & floors. There's even a trash compactor! The over-sink window lets you see visitors at the front door & enjoy a cross breeze. Recently painted, this home offers direct access garage with automatic opener. The pergo style floor in the dining room and living room subtly reflects the glow of the fireplace without the fuss of hardwood. Storage is no problem - garage rafters, large closets & attic space are yours. Want a big party? Just phone the association & reserve the large BBQ area overlooking the pool, lake, paddle boats, tennis, kayaking, basketball, volleyball, around lake walking trail & scenic, mature landscaping. It's yours as a member! Or stay home and enjoy your fully enclosed courtyard. This lovely home is just a few blocks from grocery, library, and schools.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Tile floor	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Stove/Oven	Attic
Laundry area - garage	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Swimming pool(s)

Tennis court(s)

Lake

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Wonderful Village Grove Association!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 11, 2008, 6:13am PDT

TOO LATE! 1847 Noah Drive, Corona, CA 92880

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 21:03:38 -0500

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

1847 Noah Drive, Corona, CA

PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP!! PEEK-A-BOO CITY LIGHT VIEWS!!

4 Bedroom Home

offered at $349,900

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	1,807
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	5,227 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This impeccably maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bath Hillcrest Point home has it all! Peek-a-boo city light views from the upstairs bedrooms. Gorgeous backyard with cabana-covered spa. Mature grapefruit, orange and lemon trees. Neat and tidy lawn play area surrounded by new fencing and concrete patio. Convenient ground-floor bedroom could also be a den. Cozy family room with gas fireplace. Kitchen with great garden window overlooking the backyard. Dramatic cathedral ceilings in living and dining rooms. Built-in desk in the breakfast area. Master bathroom with oversized soaking tub and double vanities. Ample garage shelving for storage. Garage also features quiet & insulated garage doors and commercial grade carpet making for a great workout room. Fantastic view of Butterfield Stage park from the front of the property. New interior paint throughout. Make this your opportunity!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Dining room
Breakfast nook	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Attic	Laundry area - garage
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Gorgeous Backyard with Cabana-Covered Spa

Desireable Hillcrest Point Beauty!

Mature Orange, Lemon and Grapefruit Trees

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 2, 2008, 4:48pm PDT

12935 Oakdale Street, Corona, CA 92880

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 20:46:43 -0500

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

12935 Oakdale Street, Corona, CA

Another fine Kaufman & Broad home in lovely Eastvale!

4 Bedroom Home

WAS $413,880 - TOO LATE! Considered

Year Built	2003
Sq Footage	3,036
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	6,098 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Original owners have tastefully upgraded home with marble tile flooring throughout most of first level, crown moldings, landscaped and patio'd rear yard and more. Fantastic cook's kitchen with gorgeous granite counters, island and family room pass-through. Ground level bedroom with private bath. Bonus room on second level could easily be converted to a fifth bedroom. Oversized master bedroom suite (approximately 16 ft x 23 ft) plus bath and walk-in closet.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Granite countertop
Stainless steel appliances	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Marble Tile Flooring

Crown Moldings

Oversized Master Bedroom Suite

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 2, 2008, 4:19pm PDT

Will California Abolish Rent Control in 2008?

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 18:59:34 -0600

The California Apartment Association (CAA) is actively deliberating what position to take regarding the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association's proposed ballot measure: California Property Owners and Farmland Protection Act (CPOFPA) commonly known as the Jarvis Eminent Domain and Rent Control Initiative. This measure, if it should qualify for the California June 2008 ballot, is intended to limit both eminent domain and rent control in California.

The results of a poll commissioned by the CAA found the following results of more than 800 likely voters, Democrats and Republicans, homeowners and renters:

41% would support the measure
52% would oppose the measure
55% support rent control and do not believe it should be eliminated

Among those voters who oppose the measure:

58% oppose due to concerns that the bill limits water storage/delivery options
62% oppose believing that rent control laws protect vulnerable segments of society

When provided a choice:

68% would support an eminent domain initiative that does not eliminate rent control

Generally, ballot measures that garner at least 60% support in early polling have a reasonable shot at success. Clearly this measure is a long-shot. The California Apartment Association has historically taken a thoughtful approach towards housing issues presented to voters. As this measure has not yet qualified for the ballot, the Association is adhering to its long-held policy of not taking a position -- yet. But this measure is SURE to be a political hot button if it does qualify and the Association knows that regardless of the measure's success there will be far-reaching consequences.

The Board is weighing the following options in anticipation of the measure being on the ballot:

Support - A reasonable position given the impact that draconian rent control measures in certain cities has had on property owners. But this position will also cost the Association much in both terms of money and goodwill.
Neutral - A safe course but leaves the Association open to criticism from both sides.
Oppose - Will garner significant alienation from members and allies who really want rent control abolished. But given the relatively low early support, this option may be the most realistic.

In addition to these positions, the CAA is also looking at an "oppose but offer other alternatives" position. In so doing, the CAA may be able to offer up new ideas and garner support among groups who would not normally be aligned with property owners.

What are your views on this issue? Is abolition of rent control a good idea? Should cities be able to continue to implement drastic measures to maintain tight rent control? Or are there some better ideas somewhere in the middle that will help everyone? The CAA will be sending its members a formal questionnaire on the subject and as a member of the Association myself, I am interested in your thoughts on this issue.

13449 George Court, Chino, CA 91710 - Closed Short Sale!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 01:19:10 -0600

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

13449 George Court, Chino, CA

Crystal Lane Beauty on a quiet greenway!

3 Bdrm Single Family House

Sold Short Sale!

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	1,559
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	3,192 sqft
HOA/Maint	$114 per month

DESCRIPTION

Gorgeous turnkey Crystal Lane single-family detached home with upgraded granite counters in kitchen and master bath, peaceful private patio, wood blinds & shutters throughout, epoxy garage flooring, garage built-ins, security system and more. Enjoy the amenities of the nearby sparkling association pool, spa, BBQ and recreational areas. HOA of $114/month includes Association pool.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Microwave	Granite countertop
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard
Swimming pool	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Clubhouse	Swimming pool(s)
Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY! HURRY HURRY!!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 2, 2007, 11:46am PDT

Lights for Little Lives - Candle Light Walk

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 01:00:36 -0600

Monday, December 31^st will be a day to celebrate and remember the Inland Empire children whose lives were cut short this year. The Lights for Little Lives walk and candle lighting ceremony, now in its eight year, is an opportunity for thankful reflection upon how children enrich our lives, even when briefly lived, and to honor their memories.

This year's Lights for Little Lives Candle Light Walk will begin at 4:30 at the Ronald McDonald House of Loma Linda (11365 Anderson Street) and will end in a celebration of life at the Campus Hill Church (11057 Hill Drive) at 5:00PM. As always, safety is paramount and all participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight and dress appropriately. Free parking will be available at both sites.

The Unforgettables Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, was founded in 1999 by Timothy Evans with the mission to: enable low-income families to give their children a dignified burial, empower communities to memorialize children who have died, educate parents and children's caregivers to confront, control and conquer the primary risks to children's health and welfare, encourage communities to recognize the financial trauma which is often associated with the death of a child.

Since 2001, the Foundation has provided burial assistance to over 1200 families throughout San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange counties. Their Childhood Preventions Roadshow (CPR2U) has provided free CPR training and home/auto safety to more than 5000 people throughout the region in both English and Spanish.

The Friendship Gala - Wine Tasting & Dinner - Inland Empire

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 13:12:28 -0600

Thursday, December 13th will prove to be a fun event for all those attending "The Best Buddies Inland Empire Friendship Gala" being held at the beautiful Edwards Mansion in Redlands. The evening will feature dinner, dancing, a silent auction and wine tasting from the Alex Sotelo Cellars of Napa Valley.

Best Buddies, a 501(c)3 organization, was founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver with the mission to enhance the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment. People with intellectual disabilities are often excluded from society because of their differences. Best Buddies is determined to end social isolation for people with intellectual disabilities by establishing meaningful, lasting one-to-one friendships with their non-disabled peers. These friendships help increase self-esteem, confidence and the abilities of people with and without intellectual disabilities.

The Alex Sotelo Cellars produces only small quantities of premium Napa Valley wines. Membership in their private wine club offers the benefits of early access to their limited production wines on a pre-release basis.

A limited number of tickets are still available for the event so please contact Gabriele Uribe at 951-683-2721 or GabrieleUribe@bestbuddies.org to reserve your spot!

Eastvale 4th Annual Holiday Showcase

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 14:20:52 -0600

Eleanor Roosevelt High School Boosters and Eastvale Events present Eastvale's Annual "Holiday Showcase" is Saturday, December 8th from 9 AM - 4 PM at Eleanor Roosevelt High School!

Pancake Breakfast from 9AM - 11AM for $5 per person, under 5 for FREE. Prior signup is appreciated by contacting the Boosters.

There will be over 30 TONS of SNOW, more than triple last years, including a sled run! Snow play areas will be located at the high school with areas for the smaller kids and for the larger kids.

Other Activities include:

Games and Raffles
Ride the Santa Express
Shopping - over 20 crafts booths including a gift-wrapping booth
Holiday carols by the ERHS Choir
Spark of Love Toy Drive sponsored by the Eastvale Fire Substation
Horse and Carriage Rides
Lighting & Decorating Contest winners!

Avoid the long-lines and parking troubles at the mall and get your holiday photo with Santa by a professional photographer (packages starting at $10) on a professionally designed stage from 10AM - 3:30PM.

You don't want to miss the LARGEST SANTA CHAIR WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI!!

Santa will arrive by Horse Carriage escorted by the Fire Dept and Sheriffs department from Harada Park (Cleveland & 65th Street), down Cleveland to the High School (Cleveland & Citrus) arriving at 10 AM. You can visit Eastvale Events or Boosters for more info.

Eastvale Annual Lighting & Decorating Contest!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 14:05:06 -0600

Help bring the streets of Eastvale alive with decorative celebrations of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice; any occasion that brings joy to your heart!

Bring holiday cheer to the community and you could be named the winner of a cash prize value up to $100. Decorate the exterior of your home to your heart's content and enter in one of the following categories:

Best Individual Home Display

Best Multi-Home Display

Winners will also receive a commemorative sign for their yard at the Holiday Showcase on Saturday, December 8th. All contestants and residents are invited to attend.

Submissions are being accepted now! Entry Deadline is December 1, 2007. They are also accepting nominations. Nominees will be contacted for permission before adding their home. For more information, e-mail ECEventsComm@yahoo.com

Contest is open to Eastvale residents only. Last date to submit entry is December 1, 2007, or until maximum entries received; whichever occurs first. Only the first 50 entries will be accepted. Best Multi-Home Display requires a minimum of 5 homes.

Participants may enter in one category only. Judging begins December 7, 2007. A panel of judges will determine winners.

Spark of Love Toy Drive & Holiday Toy Express - Inland Empire

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 18:05:23 -0600

The 15th Annual Spark of Love Toy Drive, in coordination with ABC-7 and Metrolink, is rolling into more Inland Empire stations this weekend! The Spark of Love campaign collects new, unwrapped toys and sporting equipment to distribute to underserved children in the community and surrounding areas.

The Holiday Toy ExpressTM 2007 is a Metrolink commuter train decorated with over 50,000 lights and oversized garland and arrives at a station with a musical show and sing-along led by Santa, Mrs. Claus and other holiday characters.

The Holiday Toy Express will be arriving at the following Inland Empire train stations:

November 24 - Pedley (5:00PM), East Ontario (5:50PM), Downtown Pomona (6:45PM)

November 25 - Covina (5:00PM), Claremont (6:30PM), Montclair (7:15PM), Upland (8:00PM)

Bring a toy to any of the Holiday Express Stops!

Benedict Castle - Riverside - Christmas Holiday of Light

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 14:29:49 -0600

The Benedict Castle in Riverside is about to hold its 13th annual Christmas Holiday of Light! The castle is owned by Teen Challenge of Southern California which is part of an international faith-based program for helping yound people dealing with substance abuse or other problems.

The event, open-to-the-public, is FREE and will be held on Sunday, November 25th from 5 to 9 PM. There will be lights, trees, garlands, a nativity, carolers, a choir and more. They will also be hosting tours of the building every 20 minutes.

The 10,000 square-foot castle began construction in 1922 and finished in 1931 and is inspired by a castle in Granada, Spain. The castle, on 14+ acres, is a frequent site of courtyard weddings at the foot of Torre Luisa. Over the years the castle has been used as the setting for several movies such as Hunchback of Notre Dame, Bride of Frankenstein, 1948's Abbot and Costello Meet Frankenstein and 1965's Two On a Guillotine with William Conrad and Connie Stevens.

The property is located at 5445 Chicago Avenue, Riverside, CA. Their phone number is 951-682-8990.

Property Tax Reassessments - San Bernardino County

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:17:46 -0600

An appraisal by the homeowner is NOT required. You are permitted to justify your reason for requesting the lowered assessment by marking both boxes A. and I. in section 6 of the application for changed assessment. Box I indicates that you will be including an attached explanation which should be no more than two pages in length. This justification should be sales of similar property sales as close to January 1, 2007 as possible. Other counties indicate that sales can be in 2007 and no later than March 31, 2007 however the San Bernardino County Assessor's Office has not provided specific guidance as to whether early 2007 sales will be considered

If the Assessor's Office approves the Prop 8 reassessment, it is only valid for the one year period appealed. Subsequent years will normally require additional filings.

I am more than happy to assist local homeowners who may need assistance in identifying comparable sales for their areas. Remember - the deadline for submittal in San Bernardino County ends November 30, 2007!

Rancho de Philo 2007 Triple Cream Sherry - Just Released!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 22:34:20 -0600

I had the pleasure of visiting Rancho de Philo winery this weekend for the first time and I'm very pleased with what I found! Rancho de Philo Winery is located in the foothills of the Cucamonga Valley, 45 miles east of Los Angeles. It was founded in 1975 by Philo Biane after he retired as President/CEO of Brookside Vineyard Co., then one of California's oldest wineries. Brookside was noted for its excellent table and dessert wines which were developed by Mr. Biane. When he retired and established Rancho de Philo, he brought in his daughter, Janine Biane Tibbetts, to assist him and learn the fine art of winemaking. She and her husband, Alan, are now continuing the family tradition of making award winning dessert wines.

The sole wine product of Rancho de Philo is an exceptional Triple Cream Sherry. Made in the traditional Spanish style, fifteen soleras of 15 barrels each are used in the final blending of wines ranging in age from 12 to more than 45 years. The wine is made from the Mission grape and is aged until is reaches a deep amber color. Hints of golden raisins, butterscotch and nuttiness attest to the sweetness and complexity that can only be achieved through time and the warm California sun. Savor....and then smile as you take another sip!

Rancho de Philo Triple Cream Sherry is a premium dessert wine as attested to by the consistent high honors received at the many competitions it has entered. Honors for the 2006 bottling include:

San Diego International Wine Competition: Gold, Best Dessert Wine of Show

Monterey Peninsula Int'l Wine Competition: Gold, Best Dessert Wine of Show

Pacific Rim International Wine Competition: Gold, Best of Class

San Francisco Int'l Wine Competition: Double Gold

Orange County Fair Int'l Wine Competition: Gold, Chairman's Award

New World International Wine Competition: Gold

Los Angeles Co. Fair Int'l Wine Competition: Silver

Sales to the public are direct from the winery beginning the second Saturday of November. Hours are 9AM to 5PM daily until they are sold out. They are usually sold out in one week. Quantity is limited to no more than one case of the current year's wine as only 325 cases of 12 bottles are produced.

After opening a bottle of Rancho de Philo wine, do not refrigerate it. It will continue to develop in complexity if you simply replace the cork and store it upright on your counter, buffet or pantry shelf!

Happy 30th Birthday Rancho Cucamonga!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 14:57:35 -0600

It was 30 years ago today (on November 10, 1977) that the city of Rancho Cucamonga was incorporated.

The city, formed by the mergers of the towns of Alta Loma, Cucamonga and Etiwanda, has always been acknowledged as a funny sounding name. The Jack Benny Show gave the area some early publicity when Mel Blanc as a train announcer would say over the loud speaker: "Train now leaving on track five for Anaheim, Azusa, and Cuc... amonga," with progressively longer pauses in the middle of Cucamonga. The inside joke for LA viewers is that no such train route exists.

Rancho Cucamonga also has the following ties to myth and history (sourced from Wikipedia):

In the movie Fletch Lives, Fletch, played by actor Chevy Chase, claims to a Ku Klux Klan leader that he is from the "Cucamonga Klan" from California.
An ABC television movie comedy Camp Cucamonga (1990), presumably takes place in a summer camp in Rancho Cucamonga's forested area in the San Bernardino National Forest. The current city limits barely extend into the forested regions of the foothills, and large parts of Cucamonga Peak north of the city lie in a wilderness area.
A fictional Johnny Carson character named Floyd R. Turbo said he was from Cucamonga, California.
"Pride of Cucamonga", a wine produced by the Joseph Filippi Winery in Rancho Cucamonga, was used as the title of a song by the Grateful Dead.
Comedian Jamie Kennedy performed a skit for his hidden camera show The Jamie Kennedy Experiment in which he pranked everyone at the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes Stadium into singing multiple verses of the national anthem.
Hometown to pop punk band Rufio, O-Town boy band member Trevor Penick, as well as American Idol: Season 3 finalist Matthew Rogers.
Musician Frank Zappa built his famous Studio Z recording studio in Cucamonga and made the city his part-time residence for much of the '60s and '70s. ("Cucamonga" is also the name of a long-lived radio show on Radio 1, Belgium, as an obscure reference to Frank Zappa.)
Rancho Cucamonga was mentioned in a 2006 Dr Pepper commercial.
In an episode of "The Office," Michael Scott tries to entertain a child during Take Your Daughter to Work Day. Blowing a train whistle, he paraphrases the Jack Benny joke, "next stop Cuc-amonga".
In an episode of The Simpsons, Krusty the Clown mentioned Cucamonga, along with Walla Walla, Seattle, and Keokuk as funny place names.
In an early Sesame Street sketch, Cookie Monster tries to fool Ernie by claiming that Ernie has a dread disease called "Cucamongaphobia."
In the 1995 movie A Kid in King Arthur's Court, King Arthur exiles the villain to Cucamonga at the recommendation of Calvin Fuller.
Lou Costello (Abbott and Costello) states that he once played with "the Cucamonga Wildcats" during a 1947 performance of "Who's on First?"
It is mentioned in Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Actor Redd Foxx made frequent references to Rancho Cucamonga in the television show " Sanford and Son"

Wishing you the best 30th Birthday Rancho Cucamonga!

Property Tax Reassessments - Riverside County

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 23:16:23 -0600

UPDATE - The filing deadline for the 2007 tax year (property tax bills due in Dec 2007 and April 2008) is closed. You do NOT need to file a form for the 2008 tax year until after you have received your new tax bill in the summer of 2008. The Assessor's office has current property sales information and is taking this into consideration in preparation of the upcoming billing. - Mike O'Connor - March 11, 2008

Prop 8 allows for a "Decline-in-Value Reassessment" which needs to be supported by comparable property sales. The Assessor's Office is proactively revaluing properties downward (and many Riverside County residences were revalued) but individual homeowners are permitted to submit their own request for reassessment. The form can be found at their website at:

http://riverside.asrclkrec.com/ACR/INassessment.asp#prop8

An appraisal by the homeowner is NOT required however you are required to show similiar property sales as close to January 1, 2007 as possible and no later than March 31, 2007. As we are seeing much of the downward price spiral happening NOW it probably won't mean much for the current year but it should definitely have an impact for next year.

Once a property has a Prop 8 reassessment, your assessment MAY change upwards at a FASTER rate than the 2% cap you would normally expect. The upwards assessments will only happen until you have 'caught-up' to the Prop 13 cap you would have had if you never had a downward assessment in the first place.

It's kinda complicated math but let me try to clarify: Bought in year 1 for $500,000. Year 2 assessment is $510,000 ($500,000*1.02 = $510,000). Year 3 assessment is $520,200 ($510,000*1.02 = $520,200).

Let's say in year 2 you successfully petition for a reassessment to $480,000 due to declining values. Your year 3 assessment should go up to $489,600 ($480,000*1.02 = $489,600) under the 2% cap situation. But if prices have 'recovered' in year 3, your assessment value may go as high as $520,200 which was the limit you had if you never had the downward Prop 8 adjustment.

You are never in a situation where you need to 'make-up' the tax savings from year 2.

I am more than happy to assist local homeowners who may need assistance in identifying comparable sales for their areas. Remember - the deadline for submittal is December 31, 2007!

13449 George Court, Chino, CA 91710

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 13:00:30 -0500

Michael J. O'Connor | Diamond Ridge Realty | 951-898-8912

13449 George Court, Chino, CA

Crystal Lane Beauty on a quiet greenway!

3 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $379,900

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	1,559
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	3,192 sqft
HOA/Maint	$114 per month

DESCRIPTION

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Microwave	Granite countertop
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard
Swimming pool	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Clubhouse	Swimming pool(s)
Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY! HURRY HURRY!!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Michael J. O'Connor

Diamond Ridge Realty

951-898-8912

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 2, 2007, 11:46am PDT

Housing Help for Fire Victims

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 22:34:22 -0500

Several Southern California Apartment Association chapters are taking action to assist those who are displaced by the fires. I received the following note today from the chapter representing the Inland Empire and wanted to share it with my AR friends. I know that many of you know of properties that either are available or could be made available for short-to-intermediate term housing.

From the Association:

As you are all aware, Southern California is in the midst of an emergency. With the wildfires all across the area, many people are losing their homes and have no place to go, being left essentially homeless. We have no idea how many homes will be lost by the time the firefighters are able to have all of the fires extinguished.

The Apartment Association Greater Inland Empire is working with other chapters of CAA in Southern California to provide help for these families who find themselves without shelter. We are asking our members to provide us with information on their vacancies so that we may be able to forward this information onto disaster services.

We ask that you observe the following guidelines for any units you list with us:

All units offered should be at a price no greater than that which was offered or advertised to the public during the 30 days immediately prior to the fires.
All security deposits will be no greater than that offered or advertised to the public during the 30 days immediately prior to the fires.
All rental agreements will contain a clause that the rent will not be raised for at least 6 months.

We also ask, that if possible, that you offer these units to these displaced families with a waived security deposit, discounted rents, free rents for 30-60 days, or no application/ credit check fee. Things such as these would be very helpful for these families in despair.

Any help you can offer would be greatly appreciated. This is an important matter and we thank you for your cooperation.

If you have any questions or would like to have your units added to our list, please contact the following:

Lisa Fricke, Public Affairs Coordinator
(909) 948-0784 Ext. 17
Lisa@aagie.com

Karen Fricke, Executive Director
(909) 948-0784 Ext. 13
Karen@aagie.com

You must visit my friend WEDGINALD!!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 10:42:05 -0500

Let's face it -- we're all aging. Some of us more gracefully than others:

http://cheddarvision.tv/

They're Coming Back!?!

Michael J. O'Connor (Diamond Ridge Realty) — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 01:08:24 -0500

For the first time in a long, long time I'm starting to think that we might be nearing a plateau after a nasty slide in my market. Today I had my best open house attendance in over a year! This house has been open every non-holiday weekend since late July and today I was literally mobbed -- over 20 parties came through the house! I've convinced that the buyers are starting to return now that some sellers in our market are starting to take pricing more seriously!

Not only did I have volume, I had quality. One couple I met asked me to sign an exclusive buyer representation agreement with them as soon as possible. Another couple has already called me to come meet to discuss how I can help them. Both were prior owners who sold at the peak and want to re-enter. Two well qualified connections in one 3-hour session with another 3-4 solid discussions -- I'm feeling pretty good!

How do you feel -- can you use open house attendees as an indicator of the overall market? Or is it just wishful thinking on my part?

Michael's Blog

EAGLE GLEN - CORONA - OPEN HOUSE - JULY 25TH 1-4PM

Eastvale Cityhood Incorporation Fundraiser!

TOO LATE!! 1005 Driftwood Street, Corona, CA 92880

Eastvale Town Hall Meeting - April 15, 2008

The Cellar and Peju Province Winery

I thought I would share with you the following note I receivedfrom my friend Ryan at 'The Cellar' in Fullerton, CA

Wine & More Dinner Series ContinuesWith Peju Province Winery

April 23, 20086:30 p.m.

MENU

BIO

TOO LATE!! 1094 Border Avenue, Corona, CA 92882

TOO LATE! 1847 Noah Drive, Corona, CA 92880

12935 Oakdale Street, Corona, CA 92880

Will California Abolish Rent Control in 2008?

13449 George Court, Chino, CA 91710 - Closed Short Sale!

Lights for Little Lives - Candle Light Walk

The Friendship Gala - Wine Tasting & Dinner - Inland Empire

Eastvale 4th Annual Holiday Showcase

Eastvale Annual Lighting & Decorating Contest!

Spark of Love Toy Drive & Holiday Toy Express - Inland Empire

Benedict Castle - Riverside - Christmas Holiday of Light

Property Tax Reassessments - San Bernardino County

Rancho de Philo 2007 Triple Cream Sherry - Just Released!

Happy 30th Birthday Rancho Cucamonga!

Property Tax Reassessments - Riverside County

13449 George Court, Chino, CA 91710

Housing Help for Fire Victims

You must visit my friend WEDGINALD!!

They're Coming Back!?!

I thought I would share with you the following note I received
from my friend Ryan at 'The Cellar' in Fullerton, CA

Wine & More Dinner Series Continues
With Peju Province Winery

April 23, 2008
6:30 p.m.