Orange County Real Estate - Homes, Jobs, Lifestyle, Community

Do professional photos make a difference?

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 29 May 2013 17:41:38 -0700

Do professional photos make a difference?

You bet! Take a look at this example of one of my current listings:

Old photo (taken by me):

New photo (taken by a professional)

(to see all of the photos, click here: 49 Via Barcaza, Coto de Caza, CA then click "View all photos")

I have an in-house marketing guy/photographer that will go out to the listing, take great, properly lighted photos, "photoshop" them when necessary, then upload to my MLS all for a very reasonable price.

Not only do the photos look great in the MLS but the clients really love to see their house at it's best. No more long, skinny iPhone shots of the bathroom (with the toilet seat up!), street views from a mile away (taken from the car while moving), photos of the corner of an empty bedroom or kitchen counters littered with junk.

We all know about first impressions so give the buyers a reason to click on your photos and "show 'em everything ya got."

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Mission Viejo Hosts KSBR Jazz Bash

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 22 May 2013 12:36:39 -0700

Mission Viejo Hosts KSBR Jazz Bash

This Sunday marks the 25th Anniversary if the KSBR radio Birthday Bash Jazz Festival and Taste of The Bash. This long running event brings together music fans of all ages for an afternoon and evening of great music and great food.

Held the year at Oso Viejo Park, adjacent to the Norman P. Murray Comminity Center in Mission Viejo, this event will feature over 30 musicians and 20 restaurants offering a taste of the Bash. Artists include many Orange County locals including Tony Guerrero, Evan Stone, Greg Vail and Peggy Duquesnel.

Gates open at 3:30pm on Sunday, May 26, 2013 with the Taste of the Bash running till 5:00pm. At 5pm the music begins with rotating performers scheduled until at least 9pm. Tickets run $55-$180 and can be purchased on line at KSBR.org.

You can bring low-back chairs for lawn seating, blankets, non-alcoholic beverages and your own food. Vendors will be selling food and beverages and after 6pm, the American Cancer Society will also be selling food with all proceeds will go to support their outstanding community work.

For more information visit the Birthday Bash website.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Marketing, advertising, promotion

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 07:37:16 -0700

Marketing, advertising, promotion

As real estate business professionals we all know that we have to promote our business. Name recognition (our brand) is what we strive for; we want our clients to think of us first when the words "real estate" come up in the conversation so we create marketing campaigns consisting of ads, postcards, advertising specialties, note pads, flyers, newsletters, ad words, websites and what ever we can emblazon our name upon.

But who are we competing against for the customer's eyeballs? The guy/gal in the next office? The mega-agent in our office? The mega-agent in the area? Yes...we compete with these folks, but there are others. What is your advertising budget? $200 per month? $500 per month? $2000 per month? I'm sure this represents a fair number of agents.

Here's a list of some of your other competitors (also competing for your customer's eyeballs): Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota. WalMart, Macy's and Target. AT&T, Verizon and Sprint. McDonald's, Subway and Burger King. American Express, Maybelline, Geico, Apple, Coca-Cola and even Cialis! These are the heaviest hitters in the ad business that spend millions of dollars a month.

And you are wondering why no one responded to your generic "Just Sold/Just Listed" postcard. People have become so bombarded and jaded by slick advertising, it's no wonder your marketing is not working.

Think for a moment about the local mom & pop donut shop. Probably has some dingy fluorescent lights, a few ripped vinyl booths or chairs, dull and worn tile floor but they make great donuts. Their competition is not the next mom & pop down the street but rather every Starbucks in the country with overstuffed chairs, fine wood paneling, custom lighting, uniformed baristas with clean aprons and wifi access. Is your marketing like a mom & pop donut shop or a Starbucks?

I'm not saying to throw in the towel when it comes to marketing, you just have to realize it's David vs. Goliath...actually more like David vs a battlefield full of Goliaths! Now you have just have to be able to distinguish yourself in a very crowded battle field.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Century 21 Agents Really Are Faster

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 22:48:44 -0700

Century 21 Agents Really Are Faster

Just announced at the International Convention last week in Las Vegas, Century 21 will sponsor this Indy car in the upcoming Memorial Day Indianapolis 500. The Honda powered Dallara chassis racer will sport the Century 21 familiar gold, black and white color scheme along with corporate logos. The car, also numbered "21" to fit the theme, is owned by Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing and will be be Josef Newgarden.

This is just part of the advertising package that will also include TV ads during the Indy 500 event, This ad package goes along with the current "Bolder. Stronger. Faster." theme of recent marketing campaigns.

Century 21 Real Estate LLC (century21.com) is the franchisor of the world's largest residential real estate sales organization, providing comprehensive training, management, administrative and marketing support for the CENTURY 21® System. The System is comprised of approximately 7,000 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices and 100,000 agents in 73 countries and territories worldwide.

For more information or to search for listings visit the CENTURY 21 website.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

South Orange County Market on Fire

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:31:50 -0800

South Orange County Market on Fire
by John Alesi, REALTOR

The South Orange County, CA market is ablaze in activity with plenty of buyer traffic but low listing inventory. Many buyers who were waiting for "the bottom" are finding out that the horses have already left the gate. Sellers in cities like Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo and Ladera Ranch are seeing their homes being snapped up at an unprecedented rate and at higher than expected prices. Low inventory and strong buyer demand has heated this market to the boiling point.

It's A Seller's Market

For example, Mission Viejo, CA has 80 active listings but has recorded 81 sold homes in the last 30 days, which means that everything that hits the market is being sold in 30 days or less! Laguna Niguel has 112 Active Listings with 87 sold while Rancho Santa Margarita has only 39 Active listings with 60 homes sold in the last 30 days. Can you say buyer frenzy? I am seeing that an Active listing goes into a Backup or Pending Status within 3-5 days of hitting the MLS (Multiple Listing Service).

This limited inventory is fueling rapid prices increases in new listings with multiple offers especially on lower priced homes and condos. Just a few weeks ago a $175k Mission Viejo condo received 150 offers and sold at $40,000 over asking price.

Inventory is at it's lowest level since 2005 according to NAR (National Association of REALTORS). The spring selling season typically brings more listings to market as families prepare to move over the summer so that they can be situated in a new location when school begins in the Fall. This increase may still not be enough to meet the demand as multiple offers and price increases may continue.

Adding to the buyer frenzy is a strong presence of cash buyers in the market, especially for lower priced properties. These buyers will offer higher prices because they are not restricted by appraisals that would accompany a financed transaction. Even buyers with 20% down payment are getting beat out in the bidding wars. These investors come in all sizes as well from Mom & Pop looking to bolster their investment portfolio to huge, hedge fund backed, institutional investors who are buying 10,000 homes per year!

Unfortunately, buyers that have minimum down payments, FHA or VA financing are getting tossed to the bottom of the pile when sellers are looking at offers. One strategy for these type of buyers is to find a sympathetic ear of the seller; perhaps the seller is a Veteran and would prefer to see the home go to a fellow Veteran rather than a cash investor.

Advice for Buyers and Sellers

If you are looking to purchase a home in the coming season, make sure you are pre-qualified before you begin your home search. You must know exactly how much home you can afford before you hit the internet looking at listings. Have your finances in order and clean up your credit report. Work with a local REALTOR who knows the market better than your "Aunt Suzie" who lives 100 miles away. Be prepared to make a strong offer on your first attempt. This is not the time to under cut the market with a low-ball offer.

Sellers need to be ready to move and I mean move out of your home quickly. A cash investor will be able to close in 15-20 days and will want to take possession immediately. First time buyers may be renting on a month-to-month basis and will also want to move in ASAP. Financed mortgages are usually able to close in 30 days. Make all necessary repairs and cleanup before you hit the market. De-clutter and begin packing; it will make your home look more spacious and give buyers a better look at what their buying.

If you need more information about getting your home on the market, contact me to further discuss your options. If you know of someone that is contemplating a move, just give them my information.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

10 Things To Do Before You Sell Your Home In Rancho Santa Margarita

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:16:21 -0800

10 Things To Do Before You Sell Your Home In Rancho Santa Margarita

Are you planning on putting your home up for sale? The current market in Orange County California and especially Rancho Santa Margarita, is red hot! Properties are literally flying off the shelf (as if they could fly!) because of continued low interest rates and a critically low inventory level. Most for sale listings I have visited in the past few weeks are getting multiple offers (many that are over asking price) and are opening escrow just after a few days on market.

I am also seeing open houses with 75-100 visits (groups/families...not individuals) on a Saturday AND Sunday. And the agent is asking for all offers to be submitted by the following Monday! This "perfect storm" of supply, demand and interest rates is a wonderful opportunity for sellers to get their home on the market and get it sold quickly.

10 Things To Do Before You Sell Your Home In Rancho Santa Margarita:

Start De-cluttering rooms. Pack up personal belongings and family photos. Remove extra furniture so that rooms will appear spacious. Neatness makes a room...(read the article)

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Restaurants In Rancho Santa Margarita - IN-N-OUT

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 11:18:59 -0800

Restaurants In Rancho Santa Margarita - IN-N-OUT

Southern California started the hamburger revolution in America with two brothers named McDonald when they opened their joint in San Bernardino, CA, but the standard by which all burgers are judged has got to be IN-N-OUT. Their newest restaurant was opened today in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA just a few blocks from my office! Oh, the suspense when we first heard that the company had received city approval to build their new restaurant. I've watched with anticipation and they broke ground, poured foundations, added the signature crossed palm trees to the landscape and brought the building up from out of the ground. Finally, today, an IN-N-OUT Double-Double burger is awaiting my order!

This family owned, regional chain has expanded carefully from their original location in Baldwin Park, CA and only recently expanded beyond the borders of California to Nevada, Arizona, Texas and Utah. This new store is located on Santa Margarita Pkwy at the 241 Toll Road. Regular hours are Sunday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Friday-Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.

For more info, visit the IN-N-OUT website.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

What is the cost of your loan as interest rates tick up?

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:40:04 -0800

What is the cost of your loan as interest rates tick up?

Don't Wait Too Long To Buy Your New Home.

Interest rates are at an all time record low, but even a one point increase can raise your monthly mortgage payment. Here's a look at how interest rates affect mortgage payments.

A 1% increase in interest rate (based on a 30 year, fixed rate $150,000 loan) will increase your payment nearly approximately $90 per month. A 3% rate jump could cost nearly $300 per month.

With the currently, hot market, especially in South Orange County CA, in cities like Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo and Coto De Caza, now is the time to make your purchase. Rising interest and increasing home prices will definately hurt your pocket book.

(This chart is informational only and does not depict a specific loan or product. I am not a CPA, financial advisor or attorney. I did not sleep at a Holiday Inn last night. Your mileage may vary. I am, however, a local expert in South Orange County real estate. Give me a call for more information.)

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

7 Must-Haves for Mission Viejo Kitchen Remodels

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 17:51:15 -0800

7 Must-Haves for Mission Viejo Kitchen Remodels

I get asked all the time about which remodeling items are the best when updating kitchens. According to fellow blogger, Rhonda Burgin of Burgin Construction, the following list of items are the things you should consider first when you are planning your next kitchen remodel. Kitchen remodels are popular in Mission Viejo as many of the homes were built almost 40 years ago using "builder standard" products like white 2" tile counters and basic cabinets and lighting. Many times, home buyers are looking for turn-key homes and don't want to begin a remodel project after they have purchased their new home. This list is a great place to start when considering your upgrades before you put your home on the market for sale in Mission Viejo.

Solid Surface Countertops
Replace out-dated tile and Formica with solid surfaces like granite, travertine and even some of the new engineered and composite products. Avoid granite tiles; while the look pretty good, spend the extra money and get the real deal. And no more dingy grout lines.

European-Style Cabinets
Look for modern cabinets with hidden hinges. Keep the lines clean and unadorned. Add custom features like interior lighting and glass panel inserts. Soft closing drawers are fabulous.

Stainless Steel Appliances
The neutral tone of stainless steel will match almost any remodel. Bright, durable, easy to clean and modern looking. Consider a larger, 5 or 6 burner cook top or restaurant grade ovens and appliances.

Tile Backsplash
Tile back splashes add a wonderful visual interest into your modern kitchen remodel. Tumbled travertine is currently popular but there are many other choices.

Open Floor Plan
Gone are the days of boxy rooms and doorways, open floor plans are great, especially when entertaining, as people tend to gather where the food is prepared and what could be better than an entertaining space that includes the kitchen and family room?

Under-Cabinet Lighting
Add some brightness to the counter surfaces when working or just a warm tone when the kitchen is "closed".

A Garbage and Recycling Center
A built-in garbage and recycling center will minimize the clutter of exposed receptacles while keeping you in a "green" mood.

You can read the full article at the Burgin Construction blog or contact them for more ideas or even a consultation to bring your thoughts and ideas of remodeling your Mission Viejo home.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Five Key Things that Happened in Real Estate in 2012...

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 22:30:27 -0800

Five Key Things that Happened in Real Estate in 2012...

...and how they may effect you.

1. Mortgage rates were (and still are) at an all time low. Rates dropped to 3.31% which makes purchasing and refinancing decisions much easier. In the 1980s, rates were between 13-18%

2. Banks received $25 billion in mortgage settlement money. Although some banks chose to use the funds to bolster their bottom line, most used the money to help homeowners with settlements. A majority of the money was used to aid short sales and some was used for loan modifications. If you are exploring a short sale, you may find that your bank is much more cooperative in reaching a settlement.

3. Short Sales make up more of the market than foreclosure resales. 2012 saw a 6-year low in bank foreclosures with short sales making up the difference and helping folks out. Many buyers are finding good bargains with the short sale inventory.

4. Housing inventory is extremely low. Many would be sellers are taking a wait-and-see attitude as they feel prices may continue to rise. Some of the underwater homes may actually be able to get sold with an equity position. Sellers especially are benefiting by higher prices and multiple offers.

5. Home prices and sales have stayed hot through the fall and winter. Home prices began to tick up in the Fall and Winter and continue upward into 2013. This is great news for sellers but not so good news for buyers when combined with the low inventory.

If you have questions about your home value, are considering making a first time purchase or exploring investment opportunities, feel free to contact me.

Information for this article was sourced from Lily Leung, San Diego Union Tribune

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Happy New Year 2013

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 12:39:47 -0800

Happy New Year 2013

It's that time of the year when we reflect back over the past 12 months and reminisce over the good and bad times, successes and failures, dreams and nightmares!

But it is also the time to look forward with a new outlook and make plans for a better year. Whether your goals are business growth, personal improvement or just to lose a few pounds and start exercising, now is the time to take the first steps. Make some plans but also make a few baby steps in the new direction.

I wish you all the best for the coming year. If you live close, lets meet for a cup of coffee or lunch (I'll even buy). If we are separated by the miles, let's exchange emails, photos, texts, phone calls or even a Skpye call, but stay in touch. I see so many people with marvelous technology in their hand-held smart phone but never reach out.

I'm looking forward to many conversations in the coming year.

Happy New Year!!!

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

New Years Eve 2012-2013 Orange County California

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:18:09 -0800

New Years Eve 2012-2013 Orange County California

Are you ready to do a little celebrating to toast the New Year? Here's a list that I've compiled of events all around Orange County, California to help you celebrate.

The OC Fair New Year's Eve Block Party - 12 live tribute bands, NYE Bash Demolition Derby, The Game Room, Carnival Rides, Dance Heads and a massive DJ Club experience

Orange County Great Park Family New Year’s Eve Party - 5:00-9:30pm features live music, dancing, great food, carousel rides, games and activities for the kids – all in a fun, alcohol-free environment. Local dance groups will perform, street entertainers will delight and everyone can boogie down as a DJ plays tunes in the Hangar 244 Lounge.

Newport Dunes Cirque-Themed Extravaganza "Under The Big Top" - The Dunes' is hosting Newport's most extravagant New Year's Eve party. The "Black, Gold and Bold" NYE features Cirque du Soleil-style performers, bar tended by Quench LA models, DJ Desi, Go-Go dancers, appetizer stations, confetti cannons and a Champagne toast.

New Year’s Eve Yacht Party - Newport Beach and San Pedro cruises -
Celebrate this new year’s eve in style! Elegant over-sized luxury yacht - The Majestic! 140 feet, elegance, space, 3 levels, outdoor decks, lounge and 2 large dance floors. This 400 capacity-luxury yacht is ready to make history as being the most memorable new years yacht cruise.

Two New Year's Eve Hornblower Yacht Harbor Cruises - Celebrate 2013 onboard with champagne, gourmet food, music for dancing, and ever changing view. Eat, Drink and enjoy the views this New Year's!

News Year's Eve Party Irvine Marriott - New Years Eve Party & Dinner held at the beautiful Irvine Marriott Ballroom, Open to the Public. 3 Entrée All You Can Eat Buffet, Dessert & Coffee Bar, Champagne Toast. Entertainment: Live 7 piece Band, Hornet Nation & Live Laura Angelini,60's 70's 80's music from 8p-1am OC’s largest dance floors.

Fullerton's New Year's Eve, "First Night!" Cancelled for 2012
Cancelled due to budget constraints.

New Year's Eve Masquerade Party 2013 - The Yost Theater, Santa Ana

A Midnight Kiss 2013- OC Edition - At Wyndam Orange County Hotel. Guess where the perfect place is to share your Midnight Kiss to ring in 2012? It’s the Wyndam Orange County Hotel Ballrooms & Silver Trumpet Restaurant Lounge. This premier venue will host one magical New Years Eve Party with three rooms, an open bar, and a VIP specialty bar.

The Hyatt Regency Irvine - In the Grand Ballroom so dress to impress and let's have a fun and save NYE. Entertainment: Video DJ, Live Band, Flip Book photo booth, red carpet entrance, Dinner option, huge large dance floors. And we have booked this really cool Flip Book Photo Booth for the event. Dinner: 3 Entrée All You Can Eat Buffet, Dessert & Coffee Bar, Champagne Toast.

St. Regis New Year's Eve with Decades of Bond - Come to The St. Regis Monarch Beach this New Year's Eve to celebrate - James Bond style. Live Music from FLASHBACK HEART ATTACK, DJ and Dancing, Signature Bond Cocktails, Culinary stations and light bites, Midnight Champagne Toast, HAWAII GIVEAWAY: All guests will have a chance to win a 5-Night Stay at The St. Regis Princeville.

And the best party on New Year's Eve will be at: Stadium Brewery, Aliso Viejo where my band, Five South will be playing live from 9:30pm-12:30am. C'mon down and celebrate the New Year with us!

So, that's a few different places to spend the end of the year. Please celebrate responsibly! See you all next year!

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Laguna Niguel Church Wins Christmas Lights Award

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 17:30:57 -0800

Laguna Niguel Church Wins Christmas Lights Award

This is the weekend for viewing Christmas lights in every city around the country. You'll see everything from a single strand of lights strung along a gutter to thousands of bulbs, characters and music that would be the envy of the Griswalds.

This local Laguna Niguel church just won the city's award for Best Lighting and Music. Here's a video of part of the show:

You can see this building live at 26041 Cape Drive, Laguna Niguel

If you are cruising the South Orange County area be sure to also check out OCChristmasLights.info for a short list of other neighborhoods that feature lighting.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Mission Viejo Homes Christmas Lights

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 22:59:34 -0800

Mission Viejo Homes Christmas Lights

Once again, this neighborhood cul-de-sac gets full into the holiday spirit by decorating their homes with thousands of lights, props and even music. These decorated homes in Mission Viejo can be found just off the corner of Marguerite Parkway and Jeronimo Road. Click this link for Mission Viejo Holiday Lights.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Condo For Sale In Coto De Caza

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 17:24:40 -0800

Condo For Sale In Coto De Caza

Although there are just a few condo developments in Coto De Caza, this home is located in the premier neighborhood of Los Verdes. Enjoy this spacious patio home with an upgraded kitchen complete with granite counters and stainless steel appliances. Entertain your guests at the wet bar that opens to the living room and family room (with a cozy fire place) or in the formal dining room. Also on the main floor is a bedroom/office with a walk-in closet and adjoining bath.

The spacious master suite features a retreat area and a double sided fireplace that can be enjoyed in the master bath. This master bath has double sinks in the granite counter as well as a separate tub and shower plus a huge walk-in closet, The second bedroom upstairs also includes an en suite bath. For convenience, the laundry area is situated just between the two upstairs bedrooms. One additional room is the unique office/library/computer niche perfect for those who need a little extra space.

This community is served by the Los Verdes Home Owners Association who maintains the common areas, front lawn landscape care, roof maintenance and exterior paint. The tax rate is low and there are no Mello-Roos bonds for this community.

Specifications: 3 bedroom, 2.75 bath, 2542 sq. ft. $649,000. For complete information, just click Condo For Sale In Coto De Caza.

Nearby community amenities include the fabulous Coto De Caza Golf and Racquet Club, Spa & Sports Club, numerous parks and recreation areas and equestrian trails set in a 5,000 acre master planned community that backs to the Cleveland National Forest.

This home is served by the Capistrano Unified School District and includes these local schools: Tijeras Creek Elementary, Las Flores Middle School and Tesoro High School. Santa Margarita High School is nearby. Shopping, dining and entertainment are available in Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo and Ladera Ranch. The community is about 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean.

Search this link for all Homes and Condo For Sale In Coto De Caza

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Waterfront Homes On Lake Mission Viejo

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:42:56 -0800

Waterfront Homes On Lake Mission Viejo

This is my photo of Lake Mission Viejo waterfront homes taken in early November, 2012 on one of those Southern California "sunny, blue and 72" days.

Homes on the lakefront are priced in the $1-2M price range with homes just off the water in the $1Ms. The lake provides recreational avtivities including swimming, fishing, boat rentals and summertime activities for all ages at the clubhouse facility.

Search here for: WATERFRONT HOMES ON LAKE MISSION VIEJO

If you are interested in more information about waterfront homes in Mission Viejo, feel free to contact me.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Turkey on the BBQ Grill for Thanksgiving

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 14:42:05 -0800

Turkey on the BBQ Grill for Thanksgiving

I just had to pass on this blog post from my long time friend who runs a catering business in Florida. I've known the author/chef/caterer, Camille Hansen, since....well, a long time ago growing up in the Chicago suburb of Elmwood Park. Coming from strong ethnic Italian backgrounds, we were always surrounded by great cooking. Camille has developed her passion for cooking into a thriving business and writes a blog called "Camille Cooks For You." Every post is full of mouth watering recipes and fabulous food photos...everything from main courses to desserts. Of course, her posts near holiday times usually reflect the fare of the season.

So take a few moments to savor this idea for grilling your Thanksgiving bird.

The Thrill Of The Charcoal Grill

Posted on November 7, 2012 by Camille

I love grilling and I especially love grilling on a charcoal grill. I don’t know why, but I do. I think it’s inbreeded in me. (Here comes the story) When I was growing up, my family loved to grill. My earliest memories of grilling where at the VFW picnics we would go to each year. My Mother was in charge of the charcoal grill just as she was in charge of the stove at home. No one could get close to the grill when Mom was around. She had it going on for sure.

On the day of the annual VFW picnic we would get to the forest preserves extra early so we could get a good spot for the grill. It had to be a large piece of land because everyone, and I mean everyone, wanted to be invited to eat whatever Mom was putting on the grill. Of course we had the typical food for the grill; hamburgers and hot dogs, but they would come much later in the day. The American Food, as Mom called it, would be ready around 6 pm. We would have our main meal at the normal time at which we ate every Sunday: 2pm was dinner time on the day of the Sabbath.

Can you guess what the meal was that my Mother cooked on the grill? I’ll give you a hint: It was very Italian. Yep, you guessed it. We had Spaghetti and Meatballs, as well as Grilled Italian Sausage with Peppers. She would actually boil the water and cook the spaghetti on the grill. She made the gravy (sauce) and the meatballs the day before and heated it all on the grill. She would grill the sausage and peppers just before she boiled the water for the pasta. My Mother was a real pioneer: A Chicago Grilling Pioneer!

My next memory comes when I am a bit older, maybe 12 or 13. My maternal Grandfather and Uncle Dominic would come to our house on Sundays in the summer for a BBQ. Uncle Dom made the first drum type grill. No one had such a thing. It was huge and Mom could grill enough food for the whole neighborhood if she wanted. She didn’t want to. We ate sausage and peppers, quartered chickens, hot dogs and hamburgers, corn on the cobb, potatoes cooked in foil packets and so much more. When uncle Dom was over he was the only one my Mother would relinquish the grill to. He was a terrific cook just as the rest of the family.

Right now I am grilling a stuffed 15 pound turkey so I can write this blog. I thought I’d give you a challenge for Thanksgiving Dinner. Cook your turkey on a charcoal grill. Cooking a turkey on the charcoal grill has so many advantages for Thanksgiving. The biggest advantage is being able to cook 2 turkeys at the same time for a large crowd. We never have just one turkey since we have over 20 people for dinner. Also, cooking the turkey on the grill frees up oven space not only to be able to cook a second turkey, but you know how difficult it gets when you have all of those sides to cook in the oven and there is no room. You end up playing the shuffle game trying to fit everything around the turkey. When you do that you are always in the oven and you loose oven heat. No wonder everything takes forever to get hot.

So be a pioneer and cook your turkey on the grill this year. It is incredibly easy (I know, I say that about everything, but it really is) and you’ll also have one less pan to clean.

I put the string on thinking it would help in taking the turkey off the grill. Don’t bother, it didn’t work. I ended up using two REALLY BIG forks to remove it.

Grilled Turkey

1 12 to 15 Pound Fresh Turkey

1/4 Cup XVOO [Extra Virgin Olive Oil]

Coarse Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Take the turkey out of the refrigerator 1 hour before grilling. Bringing it to room temperature makes for even cooking. You can stuff the bird with your favorite stuffing, or not. It’s up to you. I like it stuffed.

Rub the XVOO all over the bird and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Build a split charcoal fire using 30 to 40 coals on each side. When the coals are hot place a foil pan in-between the coals and in the center of the grill. This catches all of the drippings from the turkey for your gravy. Use the drippings exactly as you would if they came from cooking the turkey in the oven.

Place the top grill over the coals and place the turkey in the middle of the grill positioning it over the drip pan.

Place the lid on the grill with it just ever so slightly tilted to the side to let a little more air in the grill. Just a tiny, tiny bit. Maybe 1/4 inch. Be sure all of the other vents are open. If the turkey looks as if it is cooking too fast, take the tilt out of the lid.

After about 1 hour add 6 coals on each side being careful to not get any in the drip pan. Cook the turkey for 2 to 3 hours or until an instant read thermometer registers 180° when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. The cooking time will depend on how hot the fire is. With the amount of coal I have here, you will have a HOT fire. One thing that helps you determine if the turkey is done is to get one with the little pop-up thingy in the breast. I did and it worked perfectly. In fact, if I hadn’t had the pop-up I would have cooked it too long. I did a 15 Pounder loosely stuffed with andouille sausage and cornbread stuffing and it cooked in 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Transfer the turkey to a dish and let it rest 30 minutes before carving. The resting time will give you time to make the gravy and get the rest of your dinner on the table.

This is after 1 hour cooking time. It cooked for a total 2 hours 15 minutes.

I cooked my turkey while writing this blog and I just finished eating some of the white meat and stuffing and, OMG, it is the moistest turkey I have ever made.

Delicious Looking – - – Delicious Tasting

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask. You can ask me on this blog in the comment section or email me at

camille@camillecooksforyou.com

I want to add a note about grills. I grill on a Weber Charcoal Grill (WCG). The cooking time for anything on a WCG is way different then cooking on a gas grill. Cooking on a WCG is like cooking in a super convection oven. The heat is so intensely concentrated that it will cook a 15 pound turkey in half the time it takes to cook in a 325° conventional oven. So if you thought the cooking time was fast, you are right. It’s REALLY fast. It cooks evenly without burning or drying out the turkey. Cooking the same size turkey on a gas grill most likely will take the same time as cooking it in a conventional oven. I’ve never owned a gas grill so I can’t tell you how long to cook a turkey.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Hazardous Waste Disposal in Orange County

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:02:07 -0800

Hazardous Waste Disposal in Orange County

Do you need to throw away old batteries, expired medicine or other hazardous waste and live in the South Orange County cities of Irvine, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo or other nearby places?

Now you can take your items to the Orange County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 6411 Oak Canyon Avenue, Irvine. This is one of four site around the county where residents can get rid of their unwanted hazardous items. Other sites are located in Huntington Beach, Anaheim and San Juan Capistrano. They are open from 9am to 3pm Tuesday through Saturday and closed on holidays and rainy days. You can visit their site at OC Waste & Recycling for more information.

Here's a quick tip: Keep a small plastic bucket or even a recycleable milk jug next to your indoor recycling bin and simply drop old batteries in the container. You will be sure not to combine them with regular recycling or household trash.

Please DO NOT dispose of batteries, sharps, medicines, paint, etc in your regular weekly trash pickup. These pickups go directly to landfills so keeping hazardous materials out will benefit us and future generations.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Where Do I Vote In Mission Viejo?

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 20:49:54 -0800

Where Do I Vote In Mission Viejo?

Tuesday's election is proving to be one of the most hotly contested races in years. This election will decide our leaders on every level of government from the President to City officials and numerous ballot propositions and measures which affect state and local areas.

So where do you go to vote?

In Mission Viejo, California you can determine the location of your polling place by visiting this site: Orange County Registrar of Voters, enter your street number and street name and you will see the address of the polling place along with a map of the location. Polls are open from 7:00am until 8:00pm

I will be working the polls on Tuesday and would love to see a huge voter turnout!

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Food Truck Fund Raiser

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 17:58:46 -0700

Food Truck Fund Raiser

Everybody likes to eat...so come out and support Easter Seals at this fun event:

The Gourmet Food Truck Frenzy happens on Thursday, October 25, 2012 in Rancho Santa Margarita and is put together by the agents of CENTURY 21 Award's Rancho Santa Margarita office. There will be plenty of trucks to choose from including Lee's Philly (LA & OCs best Gogi), bakerytruck (fresh baked desserts), Ragin Cajun On Wheels (from the Great Food Truck Race TV show!), Chomp Chomp Nation (better than the streets of Singapore), Tropical Shave Ice (authentic Hawaiian) and Tornado Potato (spiral cut potatoes, sausage and chili) to name a few of the participating vendors.

A Raffle Drawing is planned and there will be music as a backdrop to the fun.

The trucks will gather at the corner of Santa Margarita Parkway and Avenida Empresa, just across from our CENTURY 21 Award offices.

Easter Seals supports families with Autism, Disabilities, Dementia, Wounded Veterans, Senior Services and more. Century 21 has supported this charity since 1979 and has raised over $104 million. We donated $2 million last year and events like this will help us top that goal. Click this link, CENTURY 21 and Easter Seals , to learn more about the partnership.

If you have a food truck or know of one that would like to participate, just have them contact me.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

September House and Condo Sales in Mission Viejo California

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:36:58 -0700

September House and Condo Sales in Mission Viejo California

I did a quick check of the sales statistics for home sales in Mission Viejo to see how last year's volume compared to this year's volume. I only compared one month's sales, September 2011 and September 2012 just to see what the balance of equity sales to distressed is.

As you can see, there is definitely a swing away from REO/foreclosures, an increase in equity sellers and about break-even with short sales. What these numbers don't reflect is the overall drop in available inventory from a typical 3-4 month supply to less than a 30 day supply of homes. There is also a corresponding drop in Days On Market from 90 days in 2011 to 71 days in 2012.

Statistics courtesy SoCAL MLS for Mission Viejo, California

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

One Man's Junk Is Another Man's Treasure - Dove Canyon - Garage Sale

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 11:05:41 -0700

One Man's Junk Is Another Man's Treasure - Dove Canyon Real Estate - Garage Sale

No, I'm not talking about junky houses for sale but I going to tell you about the annual community wide Dove Canyon Garage Sale, which happens on Saturday, October 6, 2012 from 7 am to 1:30 pm. This event is sponsored by local REALTORS and will give you the opportunity to rummage through plenty of items residents will offer for sale.

Looking for a snow board, tennis racket, golf equipment? How about toys and baby items? Want clothing or camping gear? How about a drum set! Maybe you can even find a lost Picasso or Monet painting that you can buy for $20...who knows? Are you looking for furniture...a desk, book case or a sofa? This is your chance to get "behind the gates" of Dove Canyon and cruise through this 350 home community.

While you are driving the streets of Dove you may even find your dream home. Inventory is at an all time low in Dove Canyon so you won't see many For Sale signs but you can always window shop. Feel free to contact me for more information about home values in Dove Canyon, schools districts and area amenities. Dove Canyon is close to the Rancho Santa Margarita town center with shopping, recreation, entertainment and more. While you're there, be sure to check out the Frank Lloyd Wright inspired club house at the golf course.

For more information about Dove Canyon’s Garage Sale, or for real estate assistance just send me a message or give me a call at 949-510-2154

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Number of Vacant Listings Drops Dramatically

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 10:27:57 -0700

Number of Vacant Listings Drops Dramatically

In my real estate market of South Orange County, California, we have seen a dramatic drop in the number of vacant listings posted to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Currently, the vacancy rate is around 14% but just a few months ago is was hovering around 33%.

So what does this mean? I feel that this is a return to a healthy market. Along with these fewer vacant properties is a turn around in the number of standard/equity sale listings that are available. Fewer people are in trouble with their mortgages and more people are selling for the traditional reasons; growing family, job transfer, marriage, divorce, down sizing or death of the owner.

This drop in vacant homes also means better looking neighborhoods. Gone are the days of dried out, sun baked lawns full of weeds, peeling paint and broken windows. Now we are seeing pride of ownership returning as home owners are once again caring for their homes.

Although we are not out of the woods, I feel that we are returning, little by little, to a healthy market.

If you would like any information about your local neighborhood values or a market evaluation of your own home, feel free to contact me.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Dove Canyon House For Sale - Gated Community

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 15:09:16 -0700

Dove Canyon House For Sale - Gated Community

Gorgeous, updated home in the gated community of Dove Canyon is move-in ready.

Recently remodeled and upgraded kitchen is a chef's delight! Dark stained maple cabinets, granite counters with 9' deep sink, 5 burner gas stove and stainless steel appliances set the stage.

Cathedral ceiling living includes plantation shutters (also in dining room and master bedroom). Engineered hardwood floors on all downstairs floors. Inside laundry.

Upstairs, enjoy the view from this trey ceiling master suite and spacious bath with shower and tub.

Great sunset views from the entertainers backyard including patio cover, pet-friendly synthetic grass and spa big enough for all your friends. Other ammenities include nearly new tankless water heater and rain gutters on all eaves.

This is a beautifully upgraded 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with 2045 square feet of pure enjoyment! For the golfers, enjoy the only private Jack Nicklaus Signature course in Orange County. Golf or social emberships in the club are available to all residents at an extra cost. The Frank Lloyd Wright inspired club house is perfect for lunch, dinner, weddings or corporate functions. Other ammenities available to people purchasing home for sale in Dove Canyon include card-keyed swimming pool, spa, and tennis courts, miles of hiking and horse trails, plus recreation areas for all ages.

$620,000 Standard Sale.

Click here for more information about this house for sale in Dove Canyon.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187

Mission Viejo House For Sale

John Alesi (Orange County California Real Estate) (Century 21 Award) — Sat, 11 Aug 2012 00:12:36 -0700

Mission Viejo House For Sale

Expanded Tiffany Model in Deane Homes tract with added master suite (incl full bath and walk-in closet). Single story home; all bedrooms down. Newer kitchen cabinets with added breakfast nook. Second master suite also with full bath. Steps away from Mission Viejo Swin & Racquet Club with tennis courts, pool, spa, rec room, BBQ, workout room, activities and more. Award winning Mission Viejo High School and La Paz Intermediate School serve this area. Close to freeway, toll roads, shopping, restaurants, entertainment, recreation and only a few minutes from the Southern California beaches. Tax rates are low and there is noadditional Mello-Roos bonds that you might find in other communities. The home is centrally located in the Saddleback Valley with moderate weather. Summers can be hot but cool evening breezes make for great nights. The pool sized back yard is a wonderful space for entertaining or just sitting out to enjoy the sunset.

4 bedrooms, 2.75 bath, 1979 sq. ft., on a 7,800 sq. ft. lot. Standard equity sale, $519,000

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Award

Search for homes at: Your OC Home Search website

DRE# 01730187