SCV Real Estate Insider Blog

New Santa Clarita Real Estate Blog...

Robert & Brian Team — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 05:15:00 GMT

If you are coming across this blog, and wondering why the content isn't updated, and rather stale...it's because I have relocated my Santa Clarita real estate blog to a new website that packs many more features!

Please now direct your browser, and bookmark... www.SantaClaritaRealEstateForum.com

It's an excellent blog, covering all aspects of the Santa Clarita real estate market. As a bonus, it's updated almost every single day! I can't wait to see you there!

- Robert

Single Story For Sale in Saugus

Robert & Brian Team — Tue, 15 May 2007 06:57:00 GMT

Large 1 story home, 3 car garage with RV

• 1,782 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm single story - MLS® #F1714255 $669,000 - Ready To Move In!

Saugus, Santa Clarita - LARGE TURN-KEY SINGLE STORY HOME! This property features 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms, 3 car garage, and GATED RV parking! Other features and upgrades incude Classy tile floors, wood blinds, tons of windows, open kicthen with center island, extra cabinety in kitchen, recessed lighting, ceiling fans throughout, custom paint schemes, 6 panel doors, and indoor laundry room.

The roomy master bedroom features a large walk in closet, elegant master bathroom with dual sinks, comfortable oversized tub, and private stall shower. There is a large grassy "pool sized" rear yard with above ground spa , and stamped concrete patio for entertaining on! This home is truly ready for move in and shows TRUE pride of ownership.

Circle J Ranch is a beautiful residential neighborhood only minutes from the 14 and 5 freeway, a unique and highly desirable community within Santa Clarita with easy access to all points of interest and shopping.

Property information

Mortgage applications RISE!

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:23:00 GMT

Greetings everyone,

It was announced this week that nationally, and on a seasonally adjusted basis, that mortgage applications have risen 4% in the last week, and just over 19% compared to the same period last year. This is yet another smidgen of good news for our rather mysterious real estate market. This coincides with other positive news from the first quarter of sales statistics gathered regarding the Santa Clarita real estate market.

Sales of 608 Santa Clarita single-family homes were up 18.1 percent over the same period a year ago and the 261 closed escrows reported this March were 14.0 percent higher. Condominium sales however did decline 4.9 percent to 274 transactions for the 1st quarter and were off 6.6 percent from March 2006 - which I have expected since they usually perform the worst in a relatively flat market or "down" market.

Business has been tremendous for me this year, so I certainly see the proof behind these numbers. Let's hope things continue to be somewhat balanced prior to going into another frothy market driven by buyer demand, which I can see happening by 2009, or 2010, barring any unforeseen national or worldwide turmoil that effects our economy and confidence.

Contact me to assist you in purchasing or selling Santa Clarita real estate. I can be reached at 661.373.2374 or Robert@TheScvAgent.com

As always, visit www.TheScvAgent.com for Santa Clarita's BEST real estate website.

- Robert Mickalson

Price reduction...

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 02 May 2007 23:38:00 GMT

My listing @ 28026 Forst Ct in Castaic has just reduced its price from $599,000 to $589,000.

This is a lovely Castaic home in an excellent location! With 4 bedrooms, including one downstairs, and 3 full bathrooms, also one downstairs, this floor plan is great! Brand new carpet never lived on has just been installed. There are plenty of features that this home boasts that you are probably looking for. If you are in the market for a 4 bedroom, situated at he very end of a cul-de-sac street in Santa Clarita, you should give me a call to take a look at this one! Available for showings anytime!

View the home here

Contact Robert at 661-373-2374.

New 2007 Tax Break For Some Homeowners

Robert & Brian Team — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:02:00 GMT

Until recent times, most home buyers putting less than 20% down would opt for a piggyback loan (a 2nd), instead of Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) and just one loan. Since the prime rate on Piggyback loans have risen in the last year and there is still uncertainty as to where the will end up, home buyers have been taking a second look at taking out just one loan, and the PMI that goes along with that when putting less than 20% down. In the interest of having predictable loan costs home buyers have surely been altering the way they structure their loan. The PMI industry has already seen an 8.5% increase in the use of mortgage insurance with purchases and refinances since the beginning of the 1st quarter of 2007.

Other than the fluctuating cost of a piggyback loan, what is driving people now to use PMI? Well finally for 2007 there is a new tax break for a home purchase THIS YEAR. I'll cut to the chase. If you bought a home this year, and you used PMI, and your adjusted gross income is LESS than $100,000, then you can write off the full premium of the PMI! So you now get the Interest deduction on the 1st mortgage, the property taxes, and now PMI! Homeownership is great!

Bad news is, if your adjusted gross income is over 110,000, your out of luck on this new tax break (at least for this year). There is a partial deduction you can take if you make between 101,000-109,000, but it goes down 10% per thousand!

This is something that should have been implemented long ago - but who cared as prices were sky rocketing and everyone made money hand over fist buying and selling property.Lets just hope they increase the limit over $100,000, which will enable people who live in more expensive areas, such as California to qualify for this tax break too. After all, it takes much more income to simply own a home in an area like Calfifornia.

If I can advise you on your next home purchase, or sale, don't hesitate to contact me.

Robert Mickalson, Realtor

661-373-2374 / robert@thescvagent.com

The 2007 Real Estate Market, so far...

Robert & Brian Team — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 18:55:00 GMT

Once again, my Santa Clarita real estate blog has fallen behind. I have been working so don't worry. The problem has not been my lack of desire to keep the Santa Clarita home buyer and seller informed, rather the time it takes when the market has been quite hot and demanding so much of my time!

In 2006 I had nothing but time to blog, not quite true since business was decent, but it sure felt like it at times. Here we are now in 2007, just 3 months completed, and the year has been rocking! Buyer's have indeed lost that ever present 2006 fear of buying a home. They now have courage, and have caught wind that things aren't "so" bad, and they are now buying homes, or at least running us around looking for that home!

I am seeing full price offers made, and in once instance two weeks ago, a home with 5 offers on it in its first week on the market. Why the change year over year? I attribute it mostly to media coverage and people simply tired of renting! Sentiment is everything, and when people are fed news story after news story, either in a paper, magazine, cable news channel, or know it all blog like mine, well, if all that news is negative, who is going to feel good about going against the "advice", especially when it comes to dealing with home buying and selling. Its a good thing that people by nature, want to own real estate, otherwise it would be much less predicatable and more complicated!

Today, we see positive news stories, and much less doom and gloom from pundants. Sure there is uncertainty in the market still, just much less of it. Sure there is fear about the sub prime loan market and how its undoing could effect the mainstream market, I just don't see it effecting the desire to buy a home from the clients I have, or the clients I see my colleagues dealing with on a daily basis.

Bottom line, incase you were wondering, the Santa Clarita real estate market is looking very lively and healthy thus far in 2007. The beginning of the year was looking very promising in that the inventory was remaining at a nice low level after the holidays. It will be interesting to see how the inventory takes shape over the coming months. Currently we are at about 2050 homes actively for sale in Santa Clarita.It is important that inventory stays relatively low, for another dramatic increase like that of 2006, would mean to many options for buyers, which translates into one too many competing sellers. The good news is that buyers have in large number considered or actually got off the sidelines and are starting to participate in the market again. As I mentioned, a lot of that has to do with media coverage and how that has changed. So the larger number of buyers will actually help to eliminate a percentage of the growing "Spring" inventory. I feel that as some sellers realize things aren't so bad out there, they may actually opt to hang onto their asset, and not sell, which is the opposite of what they decided to do in 2006 - when everyone seemed like they wanted to sell!

In the coming months I will provide many more updates here, and do my best to keep you updated on the day to day minutia of the Santa Clarita real estate market. Thanks for supporting this blog by checking it often!

- Robert Mickalson

2 Story For Sale in Winnetka

Robert & Brian Team — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 21:07:00 GMT

Master bedroom with 1,100 sq ft!

• 2,897 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story - MLS® #F1708074 $729,990 - Upgrades & Value!

Winnetka, San Fernando Valley - What an incredible home! 4 bedrooms with 3.5 bathrooms, this home features just over 2,550 sq ft! Not only is does this home feature a desirable size for the area, it features 2 master bedrooms, one upstairs and one downstairs.

The upstairs master bedroom features 1,100 sq ft! Its huge, elegant, and comfortable. Some of the features this master bedroom boasts are his and her dressing room/walk in closets, his and her restrooms, his and her vanities, and a retreat with wet bar, and built in media desk.

Throughout the home you will find designer upgrades and touches sure to please! Items such as the travertine with marble floors, , 6" upgraded base boards, travertine tiled bathtubs, jetted bathtub, custom paint schemes, and newer carpets less than a year old in bedrooms.

Close to all of the major city conveniences yet situated on a quiet cul-de-sac location, this home really has it all. Easy to view - call your Realtor to see this home today!

Property information

Open House in Castaic on Saturday

Robert & Brian Team — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 01:03:00 GMT

Castaic, Santa Clarita - We invite everyone to visit our open house at 28026 Forst Ct on April 7 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Property information

SunCal Homes San Francisquito Development On Hold Again

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 00:03:00 GMT

The residents in San Francisquito keep fighting back, and winning. The large home builder, SunCal, is interested in developing a piece of land just north of Copperhill in the San Francisquito area, long known for its equestrian feel.

SunCal had an original plan to develop 60 homes, each with a varying lot size, however nearby existing residents argued that the lot sizes would not accommodate the housing of horses since it is after all an equestrian community. SunCal argued that the lot sizes indeed were sufficient and the plan for the 185 acre development fit in with the existing theme of San Francisquito. The department of regional planning for Los Angeles county disagreed and sent SunCal back to the drawing board.

SunCal came back this year in March and offered their new solution to the problem, by reducing the number of homes to be built to 45 from 60. This would increase the average lot sizes in theory and lay rest to some concerns. It is noted that SunCal planned on lot sizes ranging from 15,000 to 60,000 sq ft. Because the community consists of two different zoning requirements, SunCal would not be required to adhere to the 2 acre minimum lot sizes.

The department of regional planning for Los Angeles County yet again struck down the development plan, and has asked SunCal to change the plan to reflect each lot to be a minimum of 1 acre and report back to the Los Angeles subdivision committee. After the committee has reviewed the revised map the decision will be back up for review with the Board of Supervisors on June 26th of this year.

Anyone looking for a 1 acre tract home!? Contact me to get on my list of interested parties for this future development! 45 homes - 1 acre each - sounds great!

Search the MLS like a pro at www.TheScvAgent.com

Robert Mickalson, Realtor

Robert@TheScvAgent.com

661-373-2374

3-Level Split For Sale in Bon Aire

Anonymous — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 06:00:00 GMT

• 1,768 sq. ft., 1 bath, 3 bdrm 3-level split "Tri-level" - MLS® #182227 $144,900 - REDUCED!!!

Bon Aire, Merrillville - Take a look at this spacious tri-level in the wonderful Bon Aire subdivision. This lakefront home has a completely fenced backyard with a 12x24 above ground pool.

Property information

No New Listings Last Few Days...

Robert & Brian Team — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 23:14:00 GMT

Incase anyone has been paying attention when searching the Santa Clarita MLS, there has been absolutley ZERO new listings over the last several days since February 14th!

Our local board of Realtors has been changing and converting the software us Realtor's use to do our job. The new system will be up and running tomorrow Tuesday February 20th. I expect A LOT of new listings to be entered into the system tomorrow by Realtors who have done business over the last several days, but couldn't input them.

So, if you are looking for new homes, tomorrow could be a big day with lots of "new" listings to choose from. Give me a call or send an email if you want a complete list of all Santa Clarita new listings for Tuesday February 20th, and I will make sure you get that by Wednesday via email or fax - your choice.

Our new system, which is being enabled tomorrow, will make some Realtors job more difficult since its something new to learn, but for us Tech Savvy Realtors, this new system is going to help us do a much better job for our clients because it has so many more tools and features that the past system never had.

I can't wait to share some of these new features with those of you who will be buying or selling a home in 2007.

Now you can search the Santa Clarita MLS by TRACT NAME - go to www.TractDirectory.com to see for yourself - its AWESOME and very helpful.

Take care!

Robert Mickalson

Realtor & Property Management Specialist

Vintage Sotheby's International Realty

Peninsula Rentals & Property Management

office direct 661.219.2260

cell 661.373.2374

direct fax 661.216.2264

By The Way! ...I am NEVER too busy for your referrals!

www.TheScvAgent.com for Santa Clarita real estate

www.Pr-Pm.com for Santa Clarita rental management

www.TractDirectory.com for ALL Santa Clarita tracts

2 Story For Sale in Broadmoor

Anonymous — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 06:00:00 GMT

• 2,828 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story - MLS® #178536 $339,900

Broadmoor, Munster - Take a look at this AMAZING, 7-year old, 2 story home in the prestigious Broadmoor subdivision of North Munster. 3 bedrooms and a bonus/office/nursery room upstairs that is connected to the master bedroom gives this home plenty of great space. The bonus room features a vaulted ceiling, skylight, and French doors that lead to a balcony. Plus, the main level has a 2-room office that could easily be converted into a 4th bedroom or possible family room. Total square footage for this home is over 2800 square feet!!! The open-concept kitchen/dining room/living room makes this home great for entertaining. The large, quarter-acre lot comes with attractive landscaping, sprinkler system, large mature trees, and a fenced rear yard.1-yr Home Warranty included! COME AND TAKE A LOOK!!! DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!!!

Property information

2 Story For Sale in Castaic

Robert & Brian Team — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 06:04:00 GMT

Extremely Private Location!

• 1,963 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story - MLS® #R2071585 $599,000 - Excellent Price!

Castaic, Santa Clarita - AMAZING CUL-DE-SAC LOCATION and HUGE LOT!

This grand new listing located on one of Castaic's most sought after cul-de-sac streets features over 1900 sq ft of living space with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. To make life convenient, one bedroom, and one full bathroom are situated downstairs. This showplace is in immaculate condition.

Some of the features, upgrades, and delightful touches include tile flooring, berber carpet, custom paint schemes throughout, recessed lighting, designer plumbing fixtures in bathrooms, winding staircase, bright and airy living & dining room with dramatic raised ceilings, tons of windows, and a custom painted backsplash in kitchen.

With a lot of more than 11,400 sq ft, and a prime END of cul-de-sac location, this home has as much to offer on the outside as it does the inside. Aside from an extra large front yard, the year yard boasts a patio area with covered shade. There is even a private swimming pool in the rear yard, that is gated with nice wrought iron fence as an added "plus". Have pets? There is a huge Dog Run on the side yard as well.

With features galore, and a location that can't be beat anywhere in Castaic, its time to set an appointment to view this fabulous listing located at 28026 Forst Ct.

*** Short walk to Elementary and Middle school! (buyer to verify school child can attend)
*** Short drive to two different Ralph's grocery markets
*** Excellent sports complex and park nearby
*** Great I-5 freeway access
*** Just 5 minute drive to Valencia

Property information

Amgen Tour of California Comes To Santa Clarita..

Robert & Brian Team — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 07:38:00 GMT

Note that this information is outdated.

Stage 6 of the Amgen Tour of California will commence in Santa Barbara on Saturday Feb 24, 2007, and end 105 miles later that day in Santa Clarita. The finish line for stage 6 will be at McBean and the Valencia Town Center area. Over 100,000 are expected to be in attendance in Santa Clarita for this event! Visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com for more information.

When/Where: Santa Clarita, Ca ...Saturday February 24, 2007

Introducing www.TractDirectory.com for Santa Clarita

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 22:09:00 GMT

In an effort to educate Santa Clarita home buyers on the existing inventory of homes, and different styles available, I made an amazing tool for all of my clients and Santa Clarita real estate website visitors: www.TractDirectory.com.

Santa Clarita homes are in large part grouped by Tracts. We all know a few Tract Names, but how many of you really know them all? With just over 500 tracts to find homes from...wouldn't it be nice to sift through them by name and eliminate the ones & styles you don't like as a buyer?

By using www.TractDirectory.com I hope I have made the information gathering and buying process JUST A BIT easier for you!

If you have any comments, or suggestions for my website, always feel free to send me an email, or call me at 661-373-2374.

Thanks!

Robert Mickalson
Realtor ® & Property Management Specialist
Vintage Sotheby's International Realty
Peninsula Rentals and Property Management
Mobile: 661.373.2374
Office: 661.219.2260
Fax: 661.219.2264

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Fed Leaves Rates Alone, For Now.

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 21:50:00 GMT

Today the Federal Open Market Committee voted unanimously to hold the overnight federal funds interest rate at 5.25%. Good news for home buyers, as this was the 5th straight "hold it" decision made by the inflation weary body. The Federal Reserve still warned of future inflation risks to our economy, while at the same time noting improved stability in the housing market over recent months.

But with the good news of a housing market returning to relative good health, and strong showings in the economy by way of various indicators, the Fed will likely be able to justify a rate increase rather than a rate decrease. To fight off inflation they will increase interest rates so as to put the breaks on growth and over heating of the economy.

Buyers - its time to buy NOW! The economy has been very resilient, and the housing market keeps coming out with good news. If this continues, its likely they will increase at least once or twice. If you are planning on buying a home in 2007 - I suggest you purchase prior to the next meeting of the FOMC on March 20th and 21st!

This 1st quarter is the perfect time to buy ANYWAY in 2007, its right before sellers will start to sense that there are more buyers in the pool than normal. The less you compete with other buyers, in months such as May and June...the better a deal you will likely get on the home of your choice.

Always at your service...

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

West Creek Prices Dropping Already!

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:52:00 GMT

It seems that initial pricing may have been just a "tad" bit on the high side for the new Valencia West Creek Artenati development. The 1st phase, which by the way has some for sale still - has already seen a price drop on certain floor plans by as much as $55,000! That is from one buyer source of mine, and the new price sheet I received does reflect a price change as well.

Who is setting these prices for Lennar anyway??

Anyways, as for the price reductions...the new prices are as follow (as of today 1/30/07):

Residence 1: From $460,000 - previously $515,000.

Residence 2: From $510,000

Residence 3: From $535,000

***These prices can increase or decrease at ANYTIME. Always call or email me for updated pricing & availability.

Deposit required to open escrow is $15,000

HOA = $250/mo approx

Mello-Roos/CFD tax is $3,000 year approx

Give me a call, or send an email if you want to know which locations are still available, and if you are interested in registering and viewing the models. YOUR REALTOR MUST ACCOMPANY YOU ON YOUR 1st Visit - No exception! Lennar is cooperating with Brokers/Realtors, so I highly advise you use this FREE service and have a Realtor assist you with the purchase. I'll say it once, and I'll say it again - why let the person selling you something (Builder), be the sole entity looking out for you during the transaction!?? Visit my blog about this subject HERE.

Until next time! ....

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Search Santa Clarita Listings By Tract Name!

Robert & Brian Team — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 08:35:00 GMT

As an added service to my clients and website visitors, I went through the arduous task of making it possible for you to search homes for sale by tract name. Unlike other websites, you don't have to sit there for ever and think of the name of a tract you have in mind - I have each and every one of the hundreds of Santa Clarita tracts laid out for you, and even broken down by area!

Keeping track of your favorite "tract" has never been so easy. Whether you are looking for a well know tract like Old Orchard, or a little known tract like Today Homes...Simply visit www.TheScvAgent.com whenever you want to look at Santa Clarita real estate listings by tract name.

If there is ANY feature that you think would be nice to have on my website - please let me know! I am always trying to make it the best possible tool for Santa Clarita home buyers and sellers.

Contact me anytime at 661-373-2374 so I can assist you with your next real estate transaction.

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Madison at Town Center is NOW LEASING! NO MORE SALES.

Robert & Brian Team — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 22:34:00 GMT

Its official.

The Madison at Town Center, the condo conversion building "that wasn't", is now leasing after a failed attempt at selling as condos in 2006. Once an apartment community, turned condo conversion, now apartment community again, the Madison at Town Center even has the guys outside waiving signs with "Now Leasing" slogans on them.

Some people did indeed purchase condos there, I think the number is quite small, however it did happen as I confirmed this with the leasing office. From what I heard, it will be quite difficult for any of the owners to take out a loan on their "new" condo at Madison Town Center if they wish to refinance since the project is likely less (probably WAY less) than 50% owner occupied. I'd be surprised if it was 10% owner occupied.

I think it was a great idea to undertake the failed venture, but completely the wrong year. HOA fees were over $390/mo too, that didn't help.

From what I understand if it comes back as a condo conversion project, its likely to be years, instead of months. Currently they are signing 6-12 months leases if anyone is interested!

May you all have the best of luck & judgment when buying your next home!

For all of your real estate needs in Santa Clarita and surrounding areas...

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Valle Di Oro Townhomes of Santa Clarita UPDATE

Robert & Brian Team — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 21:29:00 GMT

For those of you interested in the new community Valle Di Oro being developed at the intersection of Sierra Highway and Golden Valley Rd in Newhall/Canyon Country...the developer has given me some "insight" today I wanted to share.

The developer, TriMark Pacific, is planning on opening up the sales office "trailer" around the middle or end of February. They plan on starting Pre-Sales in early March. NO MODELS will be available until June approx. So you will have to reserve a home without really seeing anything if interested in Pre-Sales and initial price offerings.

NO PRICING will likely be available until they release some of the first homes during some sort of pre-sale event. This is so they can make sure they can gauge the demand right up until the last minute, and market conditions at the time they open for pre-sales - not "today's" market conditions.

They will have floor plans that range in sq ft from 1851 to 2750! That is the largest floor plans for a townhome in Santa Clarita, rivaled only by Stratford and Avignon in the Valencia area.

To view some of the preliminary floor plans, go to www.ExploreValleDiOro.com and let me know what you think. I can be reached at anytime if you have questions on this or other communities coming to the Santa Clarita real estate market.

As always, never buy new construction without your Realtor! To read why, CLICK HERE!

Take care!

Robert Mickalson
Realtor ® & Property Management Specialist
Vintage Sotheby's International Realty
Peninsula Rentals and Property Management
Mobile: 661.373.2374
Office: 661.219.2260
Fax: 661.219.2264

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Santa Clarita Home Sales Statistics

Robert & Brian Team — Tue, 16 Jan 2007 09:40:00 GMT

Here is a snap shot of recent Santa Clarita Home Sales Statistics and Average Days On Market:

** These average include both condos and single family homes

AREA---AVERAGE SALE PRICE---AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

Acton---$706,000---117

Agua Dulce---$482,000---142

Saugus---$574,000---93

Canyon Country---$464,000---91

Castaic---$532,000---93

Sand Canyon---$850,000---75

Stevenson Ranch---$647,000---81

Newhall---$518,000---97

Valencia---$587,000---90

For all of your Santa Clarita real estate needs, whether buying or selling, contact Robert @ 661 219 2260 or robert@thescvagent.com

Search the MLS at www.TheScvAgent.com

West Creek and West Hills Valencia Pre-Sales & Information...

Robert & Brian Team — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 00:46:00 GMT

For those of you who have not done so already, and are interested in getting in on some of the pre-sales that will be happening in early 2007 and into the future, please go to this special West Creek and West Hills interest list page:

www.LennarRegistration.com

Once at the interest list form, you will provide your contact information, and give them an idea as to what and when you are looking to buy. In addition, on this form, indicate who the Broker representing you in your purchase will be. Of course, I would like it and prefer that you list me (Robert Mickalson /Vintage Sotheby's Realty), so I can work with you on the purchase.

For those of you who don't understand why you REALLY need a Broker to represent you in a"New Home" purchase from a builder - check out my Blog where I list 10 reasons WHY its a MUST! CLICK HERE FOR BLOG ARTICLE.

An opportunity has come and gone already for West Creek. It happened on January 4th by way of an email. And the response they received was HUGE HUGE HUGE! What did they offer?

They offered 8 West Creek Pre-Sale Seminars on 4 different days. Each seminar is for 100 people. Those who received the email, and responded in time were able to RSVP. They filled up almost all seminars in the first 24 hours. I have a phone call into Lennar right now (waiting to hear back) regarding whether or not people who did not receive the email have an opportunity to attend granted there is any space left. I will let you all know when I hear back. Contact me if this possibility interests you.

I have a few lucky clients who responded in time to the seminar email, and at the seminar they will learn about previously unreleased details of the West Creek/Hills community, review floorplans, receive initial pricing, and set an appointment to select a home site for purchase. They will also get pre-approved for a loan through UAMC at this seminar.

I will be attending a few of the seminars that my clients are apart of in order to formerly register them so that they may be professionally represented in their purchase since Lennar is cooperating with Brokers (Realtors).

If there are any of you that are attending one of the eight seminars starting January 18th and ending January 21st - email me right away to let me know so that I can meet you at the seminar and register you to be represented.

For those of you who need to get on the interest list - again, go to www.LennarRegistration.com so you will be included in future pre-release home sale invites. There will be more - so do this now before the builder gets bold and increases pricing.

Call or email me with any questions! Contact info is below.

When buying or selling Santa Clarita real estate, I am always at your service.

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

First time buyer tip - GET PRE-APPROVED FOR LOAN "first"...

Robert & Brian Team — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 00:04:00 GMT

Ever get disappointed when shopping, after coming across an item you JUST GOTTA have, but then, you see the price tag and you slowly put it back down and move on with life? Ring a bell?

Well, its no different when finding that perfect house you have always dreamed of. Trust me, I have seen a lot of heartbreak and disappointment when dealing with buyers who are looking out of their price range.

While it may seem fun and the right thing to do by going out and looking at homes in person, but you really should take my advice here. If the time is right for you, and you are tired of renting & hearing your neighbors life as it unfolds through the walls...pick up the phone and speak with a lender. If you don't have a lender in mind, call a Realtor that you trust, and ask for a referral to one.

A reputable lender will ask you a series of simple questions over the phone, or in person, in order to arrive at a monthly payment you can afford and what type of home price range you should be looking at. Some people don't want to talk numbers, and I understand that. Sometimes it has to do with not really wanting to "know", and sometimes its because of their bad credit - which they don't want anyone to "know". Its kind of like going to the dentist, most people don't want to.

I know, but its an important step in the home buying process. Its the most important step actually. Any lender can issue you a pre-qualification for a home loan - normally this is done with a brief phone call, some questions regarding your income, credit, and expenses. It takes about 10 minutes! They can issue you a pre-approval after a more thorough look into your finances and credit worthiness, this requires actually running your credit, seeing your proof of income, and determining your expenses. A pre-approval is better, but in order to start looking for a home in THE RIGHT price range, all you really need is a simple pre-qualification from a local lender that knows what they are doing.

Start out on your home buying journey the right way, make a phone call to a lender to discuss current rates and get a pre-qualification. THEN - pick up the phone, call your Realtor, and let them know you are ready to start looking at homes on the market. Your Realtor will be very excited to hear that they have a proactive buyer who ALREADY knew what the proper 1st step in the home buying journey is - talking to a lender.

Whether buying or selling Santa Clarita real estate, I am always at your service...

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Buying From Santa Clarita "New Home" Builder? You Need A Realtor! 10 Reasons...

Robert & Brian Team — Sun, 07 Jan 2007 20:58:00 GMT

Greetings Everyone,

As the "busy" home buying season approaches, I thought I would throw a word of advice and caution to the wind, and let it land where ever it may. While there are many things you could and should do by yourself - buying a home is not one of them unless you are a very experienced home buyer and or a Realtor yourself.

While this subject also is pertinent when buying from a "For Sale By Owner", I am here to discuss why you should NOT buy a home from a builder unless you can be represented by your own broker.

There are some builders who don't or won't cooperate with Broker's (your Realtor), but most will, especially in a challenging real estate market. In order for you to be represented by a Realtor during your purchase of a new home, your agent must usually accompany you on your first visit to the models or pre-sales "event" that is taking place. It is absolutely 100% FREE for you to have professional representation when buying a new home, or even a home that is a re-sale. Such as the case when buying a re-sale, the "Seller" pays all commissions to Brokers in the deal. It is no different at the New Home community where you would like to buy a home. The builder pays all commissions as well, since, they are the seller.

Why do you need a Realtor when buying a brand new home?

TOP 10 Reasons:

1) Do you prefer that the person/company selling you a home be the sole entity looking out for your best interest and financial investment? NO WAY.

2) Would you like to have an impartial 3rd party who is knowledgeable about the pro's and con's of the community and surrounding area, give you their professional opinion prior to committing a deposit? YES.

3) Wouldn't you prefer to have a professional Realtor so they can assist in the handling of any and all paperwork the builder needs signed prior to closing, for instance during those busy times when you or your significant other can't get to the community due to work, family , and other pressing issues? YES.

4) Do you feel comfortable reviewing by yourself closing costs statements and estimates that your lender and escrow are going to be providing you? PROBABLY NOT.

5) Don't you think it would be nice to have someone who sells homes EVERY month, to be there for you to catch any mistakes the builder may make during the escrow process? OF COURSE.

6) Do you feel that you will remember all of your rights granted in the sales contract and be sure that any and all disclosures will be fully understood? NOT LIKELY.

7) The new home community you buy from is likely staffed with about 2 or so employees in the sales office to handle day to day sales & problems with people who are currently buying, and for those who have just closed - moved in - and found problems with the home physically. Don't you think they may be a little burdened already to really focus a 100% of their efforts on just you? MORE THAN LIKELY.

8) Don't you think that it would be nice to establish a relationship with a local Realtor who is knowledgeable about the community and the business itself, so that when you are eventually ready to sell or buy another home, you have a connection in the business who wants to make you successful? YES.

9) During the building process, wouldn't it be nice to have your Realtor press the new community to take action on any outstanding issues, give you frequent updates on progress, and let you know what expect in the coming days, weeks, and months? YES.

10) Can you come up with a very good reason why you don't need professional representation when buying your new home, and for some of you, your first home? PLEASE EMAIL ME IF CAN!

I would like to encourage any of you who desire to buy a brand new home in 2007, to contact me. Lets discuss which new community you are interested, we will visit it when models are available or any pre-sale events that take place, and you can be assured that you will have a much smoother transaction in doing so! Who ever said some of the best things in life are free - was right!

As a successful Santa Clarita Realtor, I have the experience and established connections that benefit all of my clients. Frequently I obtain information on new developments before the public. It is my job to be the most knowledgeable in my field. So contact me and benefit from my resources.

VISIT MY NEW SANTA CARITA NEW HOMES PAGE NOW

Until next time!

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!

Blackberry Briar Plum Canyon - LIST NOW FORMING

Robert & Brian Team — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 19:30:00 GMT

Greetings everyone,

For those of you planning on purchasing a brand new home here in Santa Clarita in 2007, you need to know about the KB Homes Blackberry Briar at Plum Canyon. These homes are GORGEOUS! While there is the downfall of there being a Melloroos tax in this area (almost all new developments in the future will out here), these homes are worth taking a closer look at.

The first homes will be released at a private VIP event that you need an invite to in order to attend. I know how to get you in, so contact me right away if you would like a shot at some of the first lots sold. This event is set to take place during the 3rd week of January at the Blackberry Briar community - likely to be held in one of their 5 models homes. Speaking of model homes, they are NOW open.

Contact Robert right away to view these models, register, and do what's necessary in order to attend this VIP event with the first pre-sales taking place.

This community of Blackberry Briar is going to offer some fantastic view lots, beautiful homes (and I mean beautiful), excellent major road access (future Cross Valley Connector nearby), and great schools.

Word of advice - never, ever, ever go view models or visit a new home community with out your Realtor! If you don't have one - find one. "Why?", you ask. Answer: If a Realtor is going to be able to help you with the purchase of the new home, they must accompany you on your first visit to the sales office and register you. You need a Realtor to assist you in the purchase of a new home, even though it's not mandatory. The reason is simple, a Realtor is experieced and can make sure you are getting a fair shake, in addition to being your go-to-man (or woman ) to assist in the coordination of numerous tasks and events that take place prior to closing. Guess what - this service is absolutely FREE to you the buyer. The new home community pays the Realtor. Why wouldn't you want someone who is in your corner, working for you, and they don't cost you a dime? Would you prefer that the person selling you the home (sales office) be the only person looking out for you and your money? I didn't think so. Look at it this way - when planning a wedding, wouldn't it be easier if you had a wedding planner to assist you? Furthermore, wouldn't it be nice if that wedding planner was free?

Hope that helps you understand why you need a Realtor when buying a new home.

For all of your Santa Clarita Valley Real Estate Needs, contact me @ 661-219-2260.

"By The Way...I am NEVER to busy for your Referrals"

Go to www.TheScvAgent.com for expert real estate sales assistance!

Go to www.Pr-Pm.com for all your local property management needs!