What's Preparation Look Like These Days? - 06/29/08 10:17 PM

It's another Sunday evening and the beginning of preparing for the week.   As we all know or should know preparation is a crucial element to success whether it is preparing for an important meeting or an upcoming summer vacation.  As Zig Ziglar once said, "You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win."
Here are some steps you can use to prepare for anything.  Ask yourself:
What is the objective?  Determine where you want to end up before you get started, and make sure you don't just pick … (2 comments)

So this is your new home? - 06/28/08 11:59 PM

You can visit me at http://33500Bardolph.com for your private showing.......
Considering moving to the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy or Sell a home?
Do you have clients with needs in the East Bay?
 Contact Pam Winterbauer, 2006 REALTOR® of the Year
 Broker Associate, ASR, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, PMN, SRES, At Home with Diversity Certified
Windermere Welcome Home
Please contact Pam Winterbauer for  all of your real estate needs in the East Bay
Search East Bay Area Properties
Visit http://pamwinterbauer.com for home prices, local information & featured listings.
Toll Free:  877 876-8889 or 925 824-4878
… (0 comments)

Second Pleasanton Hillside Initiative - 06/27/08 10:56 PM
At a special meeting held on Thursday night (6/26), the Pleasanton City Council voted 3-2 to place another initiative on the November ballot that deals with hillside development. A little over a week earlier, the council approved a resident-led initiative that would ban development on steep slopes, near ridge lines and change how units are counted towards the residential development cap. This second initiative will reaffirm policies regarding hillside development from the 1996 General Plan, and using a community-driven process, specifically identify where hillside development would be restricted.  
It's difficult to assess the impact this new initiative will have on real estate since it's … (3 comments)

Fremont Second-Story Addition Ordinance - 06/27/08 10:45 PM
On Tuesday the Fremont City Council approved an ordinance that allows individual neighborhoods to temporarily limit second story additions. They also directed staff to develop design standards for these types of additions. The ordinance is the city's response to the proliferation of large additions in some areas of Fremont and the wishes of residents from the Glenmoor and Mission Ranch neighborhoods to preserve the "single story" nature of their neighborhoods.
After reviewing this issue and hearing a presentation from Fremont Planning Department staff at their May meeting, the Local Government Relations Council decided the ordinance would negatively impact private property rights, could complicate … (1 comments)

Lawn Watering and Water Conservation Tips - 06/24/08 12:35 AM
Summer is here and we all want a green lawn but at what expense.  Here are some little tips I found while figuring out what I was going to do this summer expecially since the HOA nazi's are out and about checking on the front yards.
1. Don't drown ~ Instead of watering for one long session, water a few times for shorter periods and take 15-minute breaks in between each session. This will allow water to soak in, while minimizing runoff.
2. Watch the clock ~ Water between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.-when the sun is low, winds are calm … (5 comments)

4 Summer Care Tips for Pets - 06/24/08 12:13 AM
Summer is upon us and we have already expecienced the hot hot weather.  Here are some tips I found helpful for our four footed family members.
Never leave your pet alone in a car during hot weather.  A car's inside temperature can increase as much as 40 degrees in an hour-with 80 percent of that increase within the first 30 minutes.  On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car with the windows cracked slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes! Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they're enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay … (10 comments)

Are you grilling green? - 06/24/08 12:03 AM
You can do your part tomorrow to save the environment by grilling "green."  If you want to be environmentally friendly, you'll need to forgo charcoal grilling and embrace gas or electric grilling to  reduce emissions.
If you have a charcoal grill, opt for natural lump charcoal, which contains fewer impurities.
And light the charcoal not with chemicals but with an electric charcoal lighter.
Using a gas or an electric grill is the best way to "grill green", but if you love the taste of smoked food, use natural lump charcoal.

Considering moving to the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy … (4 comments)

TIME FOR A CHANGE...OR NOT? - 06/23/08 12:13 AM
The rising cost of crude oil has everyone talking about gas prices at the pump... but what about the actual oil in your engine? Are you spending too much on oil by changing it too often?
Most of us probably think a car's oil needs to be changed every 3,000 miles. But that's an old mechanics tale these days. Did you know that many car manuals now actually recommend changing the oil every 5,000, 7,500 or even 10,000 miles? That means you may be changing your oil twice or even three times as often as you need to! In fact, a … (7 comments)

Windermere Community Service Follow Up - 06/21/08 12:08 AM
Today was Windermere's Community Service Day.  Every Windermere office closes on the third Friday in June in the 13 States to give back to the Communities we work and serve in.
Our office volunteered to work at Shephard's Gate an emergency shelter for homeless women and children, while committing to change their lives. 
We had a testimonial from a 41 year old woman who was raped at 14 and hit the drug trail shortly there after.  She has turned her life around since arriving at Shephard's Gate just 10 months ago.
We painted, cleaned, repaired fences and play structures getting ready for … (5 comments)

C.A.R. Supports Energy Efficiency bill - 06/20/08 10:42 PM
C.A.R. initially opposed AB 2678 (Núñez) because it would have required, among other things, that all homes and commercial property in California have an energy audit at point-of-sale, and that mandatory energy efficiency investments be made prior to the sale of the property. C.A.R. supports energy conservation but opposes point-of-sale requirements because they are ineffective and could add to the cost and complexity of purchasing a home. 
After thousands of REALTORS® called their legislators in opposition to the inspection requirement the bill's author amended AB 2678 to remove the point-of-sale provision. The bill was further amended at C.A.R.'s request, to ensure that energy … (2 comments)

Pleasanton Hillside and Housing Cap Initiative - 06/20/08 10:34 PM
On Tuesday (6/17), the Pleasanton City Council agreed to place an initiative on the November ballot that could ban development on steep slopes and change the way units are counted toward the city's housing development cap.
If approved by the voters, the initiative would ban the construction of structures on slopes of 25 percent or greater or within 100 vertical feet of a ridge line. It also would  prevent the "splitting, dividing or sub-dividing" of a "legal parcel" in order to develop more than 10 units on the parcel. The initiative also clarifies the existing voter-approved housing cap by defining any residence with … (0 comments)

Hayward Leadership Opportunities - 06/20/08 10:28 PM
The City of Hayward is seeking applicants for several city commissions. REALTORS® make great city commissioners given their knowledge and connection to community issues. Additionally, appointment to a city commission is a chance for REALTORS® to get involved in community service and see if future community leadership (including elected office) is a good fit. For more information about Hayward commission openings, please click here.
The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, June 30.
Considering moving to the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy or Sell a home?
Do you have clients with needs in the East Bay?
 Contact Pam Winterbauer, 2006 REALTOR® of the Year
 Broker … (0 comments)

San Leandro Kicks Off Housing Element Update - 06/20/08 10:24 PM
On Wednesday (6/18), the City of San Leandro held a community workshop on updating its General Plan Housing Element.  Approximately 40 residents and interested parties attended. The audience was split on creating more rental housing opportunities and the city's investment in home ownership assistance programs. Bay East staff attended the meeting to monitor the discussion and to encourage city staff to use Bay East as a source for real estate market information and housing policy analysis. 
Considering moving to the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy or Sell a home?
Do you have clients with needs in the East Bay?
 Contact Pam Winterbauer, 2006 REALTOR® … (0 comments)

A few suggestions to consider before going green - part 1 - 06/18/08 11:52 PM
Going green has become more than just a trend, especially when it comes to home remodeling or improvements. Buyers are looking for homes with energy efficient and costsaving features. 
Before you begin any improvements, consider these five tips.
1. Demand for green housing has been growing-46% of buyers would like a green home, according to an August 2007 report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) on home buyers' preference.
2. Before purchasing any of these items for your home, check with your local gas and electric company for possible tax credits and rebates. Also check with federal, state, and local … (7 comments)

Summer Food Safety Tips - 06/15/08 03:21 PM
Summer-time is one of the best times of year to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those that aren't available year-round.   Recent salmonella outbreaks like those in last year's spinach crops or this year's tomato crops are an important reminder about handling food properly.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) notes that there is no way for consumers to detect salmonella since it can't be smelled, tasted, or seen. Here's what they recommend to reduce the risk of exposure during this latest outbreak:
Check the Type ~ Since April 16, more than 220 people from twenty-three states have contracted salmonella poisoning … (3 comments)

Dublin Facts and Trends for May - 06/15/08 12:30 AM
The May statistics are in for Dublin.  During the month there were 127 single family homes for sale with an average property being on the market for 40 days prior to receiving an acceptable offer. 
The median price was $632,000 and the average list price was $829,000, the average sold price was $652,000.  During the month 23 property went into escrow and 24 properties closed escrow.  There has been a decreas in inventory from 140 to 127 homes for sale.


Considering moving to Dublin or the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy or Sell a home?
Do you have clients with … (2 comments)

May Housing Statistics for Castro Valley - 06/15/08 12:04 AM
The May statistics are in for Castro Valley and home sales have remained constant with 37 single family homes that went pending and 29 closings for the month of May. 
The inventory for single family homes has taken a slight increase from 201 to 208 during the month.
The average days on the market is 50 days prior to receiving an acceptable offer.  The average list price is $750,000 and the average sales price $567,000.  The market is brisk and there are pleny of homes to choos from.


Considering moving to Castro Valley or the East Bay?  Do you want … (3 comments)

San Ramon Statistics for May - 06/14/08 11:20 PM
May's home sale statistics are in and once again the inventory is moving in San Ramon.  There were 64 Single Family homes that went into escrow during the month of May and 48 closings. 
The average time on the market was 70 days before receiving an acceptable offer and the average list price was $1028,000 and the average sales price was $776,000.


Considering moving to San Ramon or the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy or Sell a home?
Do you have clients with needs in the East Bay?
 Contact Pam Winterbauer, 2006 REALTOR® of the Year
 Broker Associate, ASR, CRS, … (0 comments)

The bethrothed of Whales - 06/14/08 02:39 PM
Once upon a time in Wales, a man would show his affection for a woman by carving a small spoon from wood and offering it to her as a gift.  If she accepted, they were betrothed.   The original love spoons were worn secretly on a ribbon around the neck.  Made in the heart of rural Wales, adorned with three national symbols-Celtic cross, dragon, and daffodils.
Considering moving to the East Bay?  Do you want to Buy or Sell a home?
Do you have clients with needs in the East Bay?
 Contact Pam Winterbauer, 2006 REALTOR® of the Year
 Broker Associate, ASR, CRS, … (3 comments)

The Tradition Continues - 06/14/08 01:44 AM
Well it is almost here ~ the 54th Anniversary ... Santos Family & Friends Father's Day BBQ.  Every since I was a little girl I have enjoyed this celebration with our family and intimate friends.
My grandfather (Manuel) started this tradition in the early 50's.  My heritage is Portugues and the people from the Madera Islands BBQ meat in an open pit and it is garnished with rocksalt and basted with a branch from the bay leaf tree. 
The men; fathers, uncles, cousins and teens in training all huddle to prepare the fire and pit for the BBQ.  They tend the fire … (4 comments)

Big Win for REALTORS® on Point-of-Sale Bill - 06/14/08 12:14 AM

C.A.R. initially OPPOSED AB 2678 (Núñez) because it effectively would have required, among other things, that ALL homes and commercial property in California have an energy audit at point-of-sale, and that mandatory energy efficiency investments be made.  While C.A.R. appreciates the goal of energy conservation, C.A.R. strongly opposes point-of-sale requirements because they are ineffective and because such mandates will weaken the housing market.  If enacted as introduced AB 2678 could have added even tens of thousands of dollars to the cost of purchasing a home. 
After thousands of REALTORS® called their legislators in opposition to the bill and thousands more lobbied … (6 comments)

Why do we celebrate Flag Day? - 06/12/08 11:22 PM
Flag Day, is a day for all Americans to celebrate and show respect for our flag, its designers and makers. Our flag is representative of our independence and our unity as a nation.....one nation, under God, indivisible. Our flag has a proud and glorious history. It was at the lead of every battle fought by Americans. Many people have died protecting it. It even stands proudly on the surface of the moon.
As Americans, we have every right to be proud of our culture, our nation, and our flag. So raise the flag today and every day with pride!
Famous Flag People:   
… (5 comments)

Fax Machines versus All-in-One Models - 06/11/08 11:20 PM
If your office still has a fax machine, a scanner, a copier, consider the saving sâ€"400 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year â€"by upgrading to an all-in-one product.C.A.R. (California Association of Realtors) is supporting the Green Movement and working torward helping their members become more Green.  They are making an effort to raise member awareness about envirementally sound practices and offering REALTORS® ideas for greening their business practices and better serving their green-minded consumers.
Our local association is also going green and working towards a paperless agenda where they are either sent to us via PDF or we can view the agenda's on line.
… (8 comments)

What verse was Nehemiah? - 06/10/08 05:25 PM
Can this be the same Nehemiah?  Well let's see.
Guidelines for this Nehemiah:   This is a grant program that provides gift funds for downpayment and closing costs to qualified homebuyers. 
The seller contributes 6% to the Nehemiah Program.  The program grants up to 3% for down payment and 3% for closing costs.  The cost of the program at closing is $599.00 to Nehemiah.  Nehemiah does not underwrite the package.  FHA 1st loan and underwriting guidelines.  Propeprty must appraise, value to include 6%.  Some lenders cap price if using program (wells 417K).  Increasing value 6% over list price and lender will scrutinize appraisal.
… (13 comments)

One stop utility connection - 06/08/08 12:20 AM
Moving can be very exciting...but it can also be a bit of a pain as well. Besides packing and unpacking, there is a long list of details to be handled. Things like choosing a mover, connecting utilities, getting Internet and cable service, or subscribing to newspapers or magazines in a new area can be quite a chore. And if you forget to connect one of the utilities you could be stuck in your new home for several days without that much needed service. To ease the stress of moving and schedule new connections for all of the utilities in one convenient … (8 comments)

Retailers Looking for Some Stimulus - 06/08/08 12:09 AM
I was reading that according to a recent poll on how consumers intend to spend their stimulus checks, 19% of consumers plan on using their economic stimulus check for a special purchase, and 23% plan to use their check for everyday expenses. The rest... well, 36% say they will pay down debt and 22% say they will put it into savings. But will the check burn a hole through their pockets?
Here are som specials that many retailers have come up with, offering bonuses and incentives for people who spend their "stimulus" dollars with them. Here are some examples, in case … (7 comments)

TAKING AN INTEREST IN YOUR CREDIT CARD RATE... - 06/07/08 07:14 PM
Credit cards are one of the most pervasive forms of your financial picture. On a daily basis, they provide the flexibility and freedom to reserve a hotel room, travel without carrying cash, and purchase just about anything at anytime.
As such, your credit cards can have a major impact on your financial wellbeing and even your credit score. But did you know that your credit score can also impact your credit cards...specifically your interest rates? Although some companies have abandoned the practice, many won't hesitate to raise your interest rate if your credit score declines--even if you are paying them on … (4 comments)

Sending the right message - 06/05/08 12:54 AM
I am here in Sacramento at the C.A.R. meetings and we are commited to going green.  One of the tips I picked up today is the ECOENVELOPESTM SEND A STATEMENT and I wanted to share this with your since we all use envelopes.
Want to tell your green clients that you care, increase response rates on direct mail pieces, and save money? EcoEnvelopesTM allow you to send statements to clients in a reusable, double-perforated, eco-friendly envelope and forego the need to include a reply envelope.It sounds a bit like origami, but it's easier: Outgoing mail's presorted bulk mail imprint appears through the envelope's … (5 comments)

Less than 30 days......can you do it? - 06/03/08 01:21 PM
New CHP Cell Phone Laws Go Into Effect July 1, 2008
As a real estate agent, you probably spend a lot of time in your car. While the cell phone is an invaluable tool for putting the time in the car to use, you need to be aware that the new CHP laws regarding the use of cell phones is going into effect as of July 1, 2008. Here's what you need to know:Drivers 18 and Over
Drivers 18 and over will be allowed to use hands-free devices to talk on their wireless telephones while driving. The new law does not … (10 comments)

Good News for the Contra Costa County Real Estate Market - 06/02/08 10:17 PM
Pending sales were up 4% over last April. This is the first time since March 2007 that pending sales have been higher year-over-year. Pending sales rose 14.9% from March.
Is The Housing Crisis Over?
In a Wall Street Journal article, Cyril Moulle-Berteaux, managing partner of Traxis Partners LP, a hedge fund firm based in New York, opines that the housing market is bottoming out right now. You can read the full article here.
Sales of single-family, re-sale homes also gained ground last month, rising 23% from March, but down 23.5% year-over-year. That is actually the lowest year-over-year decline since the 18.1% … (4 comments)

Help....I need a new loving owner! - 06/02/08 09:36 PM
… (3 comments)

What happened to my friend? - 06/01/08 09:56 PM
Yorkie meets Mr. Squirrel........
While enjoying my morning coffee my little pupp (murphy brown) wanted outside.  Out she went to do her business.  
A fierce barking started in an unusual manner.   Something was different!  I opened the door to go see what was going on and there I saw Mr. Squirrel frozen in motion but quite motionless.....dead in his tracks.   
I put my little girl back into the house while I assessed the situation.  My guess, he had been poisened.
After Mr. Squirel was removed by my sweetie little Ms. Brown wanted to got check the yard out and see what happend. 
… (18 comments)

Housing Statistics for May - 06/01/08 02:57 PM
We have just closed out the statistics for May around the seven Bay Area Counties with include Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey Counties
Contra Costa County:  The average days on the market for single family homes under 1 million is 89   days and over 1 millions is 81 days.   The average list price for homes under 1 million is $396,399 and over 1 million is $1,681,350.
Alameda County:  The averave days on the market for single family home under 1 million is 77 days and over 1 million is 74 days.  The average listi price for homes … (3 comments)