The History of San Diego Real Estate: 1990’s

In this special series, we will be covering the evolution of the real estate industry from the 1960’s to present day. These posts are based on the industry experience of Coastal Premier Properties Broker, Tom Tucker. It is our hope that by retelling the history of real estate in San Diego County, we will be able to trace the changes at a social, economic, and technological level that have led to today’s current industry profile and the results that have occurred for consumers, for better and for worse. Click here to read about San Diego in the 1960’s, 1970’s, and 1980’s.

 

 

San Diego Real Estate History: The 1990’s

 

San Diego County Population: 2,498,016 people

San Diego County Population Growth For This Decade: 12.5%

Estimated Number of New Housing Units Built from 1990-1999: 44,929 Units

Estimated Number of Total Housing Units in the County by 1999: 251,819 Units (Including 47,015 Units Built Prior to 1960)

(information provided by the U.S. Census Bureau)

 

Overall, in the 1990’s, the real estate industry was shaped by the increasing usage of computers, the birth of the internet, the early days of email, and the rise of the cell phone. By the late 90’s, most households owned at least personal computer and one cell phone. People were more connected than ever, which had a direct effect on the speed and efficiency of the real estate industry.

The launch of the DRE’s website and the early days of the Multiple Listing System (MLS), meant that every agent had instant access to the latest listings in their area. The use of the internet brought about the standardization of business systems, allowing for more storage of data, and greater availability of information.

By the late 90’s, personal real estate websites had appeared and with it, IDX software, which is still in use today and provides the public with access to all of the real estate listings in their area. By the end of the century, the public was starting to play more of a role in their own real estate transactions. No longer were they forced to rely on their agent to come up with the properties they wanted to see. They could get online and search.

The widespread use of cellphones meant that agents were on call like never before. Where it had previously been customary to call someone and wait for them to get back to you, cellphone usage pioneered the idea that people should always be easily available. Ease of communication with cellphones and email really reshaped the business into what we know it as today: a fast-paced industry, where deals are made in minutes.

 

Notable Changes in Real Estate Law From This Decade:

1993: Licensing and Child Support. In accordance with Section 17520 of the Family Code, the Department of Real Estate (DRE) is precluded from issuing or renewing a full-term license if the applicant is on a list of persons (obligors) who have not complied with a court order to provide child support payments. The Department of Child Support Services compiles the list which includes all counties in California.

DRE will issue a 150-day license to an otherwise qualified applicant who is on the list of child support obligors. DRE will advise the applicant that the license applied for cannot be issued unless a release is furnished to DRE from the Department of Child Support Services during the 150 days.

1994: IVR System Launches. Self-service telephone system and interactive voice response (IVR) system for the public, licensees, and examinees becomes operational in the Department of Real Estate (DRE). The IVR system enabled DRE to deliver a higher level of service to consumers and the industry. It paved the way for easier access to licensing and other department information.

1996: The DRE launches its website. The Department of Real Estate’s initial Website included general information for consumers, information on how to obtain a real estate license, and subdivision information.

1997: License information is publicly available. The Department of Real Estate expanded its website to provide consumers the ability to check the status of real estate broker and salesperson licensees online. Also included in the expanded services were frequently asked questions about licenses.

1997: California Mortgage Lending Act becomes law. The California Residential Mortgage Lending Act (CRMLA) was enacted in 1994 and became operative in 1996. The CRMLA was enacted as an alternative to the existing laws licensing lenders under the Real Estate Law and the California Finance Lenders Law, in order to provide mortgage bankers with a licensing law specifically intended to regulate their primary functions of originating loans and servicing loans. Unlike the Real Estate Law and the California Finance Lenders Law, the CRMLA is specifically designed to authorize and regulate mortgage banking activities. An applicant under the CRMLA may obtain a license as a lender, a servicer, or both.

The CRMLA authorizes licensees to make federally related mortgage loans, to make loans to finance the construction of a home, to sell the loans to institutional investors, and to service such loans. Licensees are authorized to purchase and sell federally related mortgage loans and to provide contract underwriting services for institutional lenders. Licensees are authorized to service any federally related mortgage loan regardless of whether they make the loan or purchase a servicing portfolio. A licensed CRMLA lender is also authorized to provide brokerage services to a borrower, by attempting to obtain a mortgage loan on behalf of the borrower from another lender.

1998: New and renewal licensees must provide proof of US Residency. In 1996, the United States Congress passed the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act (the Act) which requires states to eliminate a broad array of public benefits for illegal immigrants. The definition of a public benefit includes professional and occupational licenses issued to individuals by state agencies. For purposes of the Department of Real Estate (DRE), the term ‘public benefit’ applies to original and renewal real estate salesperson and broker licenses; prepaid rental listing service licenses; and mineral, oil and gas broker licenses.

To implement the provisions of the Act, the DRE adopted Regulation 2718 effective August 1, 1998. The regulation requires proof of legal presence in the United States from all applicants for a license. The requirement applies to applicants for both original and renewal licenses.

1999: Major DRE Computer System Overhaul. The Department of Real Estate (DRE) deployed a comprehensive, enterprise computer system that migrated all of the DRE’s existing information and data processing activities from a variety of stand-alone and outdated systems into an organization-wide client-server system. The EIS is the foundation of DRE’s complex information technology (IT) infrastructure.

 

Notable San Diego Events From This Decade:

1980: California State University, San Marcos, opens.

1995: ARCO Olympic Training Center opens in Chula Vista.

1996: San Diego hosts Republican National Convention, first national political convention in San Diego history.

1997: Heaven’s Gate incident.

1997: Naval Training Center on Point Loma closes to all active military use.

1999: Legoland California opens in Carlsbad.

Notable United States Events From This Decade:

1990: Iraqi troops invade Kuwait, leading to the Persian Gulf War
1992: End of the Cold War.

1993: World Trade Center bombing.

1995: Oklaholma City bombing.

1999: U.S. and China sign historic trade agreement.

Join us next month as we dive into the history of the 2000’s and take a look at what changes in that decade shaped the evolution of the real estate industry.

Just Sold: July 2015

Thank you for all your support, here some of the properties Coastal Premier Properties has helped clients buy or sell throughout the county this month. If we can help you or someone you know, please contact us!

 

Watson Ranch

(Torrey Hills)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

7 bed, 5 ½ bath executive home quietly nestled across from open space. Very private guest suite downstairs with bonus room. Additional upstairs guest suite! Extensive upgrades with fine finishes and beautiful architectural details. Gourmet kitchen. 2 gas fireplaces. Master with balcony and soaking tub. Fabulous backyard with salt-water pool/spa, hillside views and built in BBQ. Walking distance to acclaimed Westview High school. Close to shopping, restaurants. Easy freeway access. Low Mello Roos!  SOLD for $1,171,612.

 

Blackburn

(Rancho Bernardo)

SOLD

*Represented  Buyer

Come see this spacious and beautifully upgraded Presidio home. Private 1st floor in-law suite has a separate entry & central air. Gourmet kitchen loaded with upgrades: granite counters, stainless appliances, large windows overlooking oversized backyard & Del Sur room. Designer tile in all baths & granite counters, deep soaking tub in master bath. Central air & designer ceiling fans throughout. 2.5 car garage with epoxy flooring & built-in storage. Short stroll to gorgeous parks & pools.  SOLD for $1,025,000

Mango

(Del Mar)

Sold

*Represented Buyer

Charming and unique floor plan West of 5. Master and large secondary bedrooms downstairs. Master bedroom has a large sitting area with FP & French doors out to patio. 2 bedrooms up. Complete remodeled kitchen open to family room. Don’t let location fool you, extremely quiet inside and very private. New flooring, paint, new doors throughout. Tw huge patios. 1 down w/access from family rm & Master. Very peaceful. Large patio upstairs off 2ndary bedroom. 10×10 “hobby” room (non-permitted) read supplement.  SOLD for $934,000.

Corbel

(San Marcos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Stunning home loaded w/ features, including: Chef’s kitchen w/ stainless appls, granite counters, & eat-at center island that opens to family room w/ fireplace. Downstairs offers private office, expansive formal living and dining room. Spacious master suite w/ serene views, walk-in closet, bath w/ dual sinks/vanities, & spa tub. Large backyard boasts built-in BBQ island w/ fire pit & frig, custom paver patio, landscape lighting, water feature, edible garden, outdoor fireplace with built-in seating.  Sold for $789,000.

Sandalwood

(Oceanside)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Gorgeous home located on quiet double-wide cul-de-sac. Westerly unobstructed sunset views from backyard that abuts open space. 3rd car garage is separate and has been finished into 4th bedroom. Large loft upstairs for home office or TV room. Cooks kitchen w/central island. Walk to YMCA. Vista School District. 6 miles to beach and Oceanside pier and harbor. Investment in Ocean is a great decision since the town is growing with several new large resorts and plenty of shopping and restaurants.  SOLD for $540,000.

Sentinel

(San Marcos)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

This condo offers it all! End unit that faces south, with a spectacular panoramic southern view, squeaky clean, ample amount of light, lots of windows, large 2 car garage, granite counters, large island, Stainless Steel Appliances, and its 1 year old. The three bedrooms are on the same floor, with an optional bedroom on the 1st floor. If the condo itself is not enough, enjoy life in the complex at the pool/spa, tot-lot, BBQ area, & fire pit. Only 3 miles to the New La Costa Town Square.  SOLD for $486,000.

Cottonwood

(San Marcos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Wonderful single story 5 Bedroom home including 2 Masters!! Larger Master has a walk-in closet, vaulted ceiling, and an outside entry door to backyard and Jacuzzi! Low maintenance, landscaped yard with block walls, rock and paved cement. Backyard includes a 600+ft side yard with grass and sprinklers. Freshly painted exterior, home is within walking distance of all levels of San Marcos public schools. 25+ ft RV parking area with water, electrical and sewer available. Delicious navel orange tree as well!!  SOLD for $475,000.

Spruce Run

(Scripps Ranch)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

This is a great Triana Location. Quietly nestled within the back eastern section of complex, you will enjoy privacy and quiet. Beautifully maintained home. Super clean and shows pride of ownership. Private backyard, 1 car garage, full sized laundry in garage. Also 1 reserved spot near the front of the property. Half bath down and upstairs are 2 ensuites (each their own bathroom). Wood window coverings on all windows. Just a short walk to schools and retail. Central Air Conditioning.  SOLD for $413,000.

Caminito Cuervo

(Mission Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

VERY rare 3 BRM on the market! This completely remodeled unit is located in one of the most convenient/reputed areas of all San Diego-Mission Valley. Without question this is a 5 Star location & a very short distance to restaurants, retail, trolley, Fashion Valley Mall, bus stop, grocery, SDSU, etc. Great as a pri residence, 2nd home, a home for a college student, or prime investment property. Spacious 1352 sq ft corner unit, 2 pkg spaces;lots of natural light;views from 2 balconies & more!  SOLD for $395,000.

Terrace View

(Escondido)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Come see this meticulously remodeled gem of a twin home. Low HOA dues. The property has gone through a full renovation features granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors, new bathroom vanities, tile in the kitchen, new int/ext paint and so much more! Walking distance to parks, golf courses, and the community pool! Very easy access to freeways and shops. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity!  SOLD for $340,000.

Turner

(Encinitas)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

This richly appointed and highly upgraded one-story house boasts the perfect blend of elegance, warmth, and comfort. Enjoy a beautiful gourmet kitchen with slab granite counter-tops, stainless steel appliances and an abundance of cabinets. Amenities include a spacious living room with vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace, two remodeled bathrooms with granite counter-tops, custom flooring, custom solid-core doors and trim, double pane windows, recessed lighting, and a lush private garden.  SOLD for $687,000.

 

Caringa Way

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

This elegant townhome defines La Costa Luxury living. Beautifully remodeled in 2012, this home features the WEMO Smart Home system that allows you control of the amenities in your home remotely. When at home, enjoy views of the Omni La Costa Resort and near by hills. The rest of the house has been finished with luxury materials and upgrades including; granite counters, stainless steel Kitchen Aid appliances, LED lighting and crown moulding, hardwood floors, marble walk-in shower and Spanish tile.  SOLD for $436,500.

Corte Promenade

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Beautiful turn key home on cul-de-sac street in desirable ‘On The Park” Community! Step inside to lovely upgraded flooring throughout the large, open living room, family room and kitchen. Beautiful granite kitchen counters, large island & top of the line SS appliances including Viking cooktop & oven. Upstairs are 3 full bedrooms plus a loft. New private fencing surrounding the gorgeous tropical landscaping in the backyard w/firepit & palapa! Walk to schools, park, new shopping, community & much more!  SOLD for $726,800.

Avenida Castana

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Great curb appeal and beautiful lush tropical landscape. Private entrance with double door entry. You will love this floor plan, very open, light and bright. Gorgeous gourmet kitchen with center island, white cabinets, granite counters and stainless appliances. Open to the spacious family room with fireplace. Master suite is exquisite with view windows, fireplace and stunning bath. Individual laundry room with plenty of storage & sink. Lovely yard for entertaining with breathtaking views.  SOLD for $932,000.

Circulo Sequoia 

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Welcome home to this stunning family home! Enchanting entry with stone-clad arches, and bursting flower pots. Enter to the dramatic soaring 2 story formal living and dining areas, dramatic stairway with sophisticated iron railings. Recent upgrades include newer travertine, wood and laminate flooring. Designer paint, plantation shutters and wood blinds. The versatile floorplan features a full bedroom and bath downstairs, large kitchen with lots of cabinets, huge island with breakfast bar, so much more!  SOLD for $1,215,000.

Corte Panorama 

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Rare Offering! Stunning family home on private canyon view lot. Fabulous floor plan features downstairs guest suite, office, bonus room, 2 fireplaces, 3 car garage and panoramic doors showcasing the indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Rear yard features a covered loggia & fully equipped BBQ island/bar plus water-wise yard with fruit trees and herb garden. Private master suite w/expansive views, fireplace, spacious jetted tub & his & hers customized walk in closets. Community pool & San Dieguito School District.  SOLD for $1,280,000.

Via Aprilia 

(Del Mar)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Stunning Ocean View Soft Contemporary designed by renowned architect Ken Ronchetti, situated on elevated lot that captures all the best of beach living! Quality finishes through-out including European chef’s kitchen w/German cabinetry, stacked stone fireplace, dramatic high ceilings capturing views & tons of natural light, romantic master with large deck including dramatic ocean/lagoon views, gorgeous bathrooms & much more. Backyard enjoyment includes saltwater lap pool and wonderful privacy.  SOLD for $2,180,000.

S Tremont

(Oceanside)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Location , Location, Location is everything. Property is located west of Hwy 5 & just 2/3 blocks to the beach. Main home is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath unit, duplexes in back are 1 bdrm 1 ba ea and all units come with a 1 car garage & laundry hoopkups + yds, units A&B in back have alley access to parking. Property has been well maintained over the years and is professionally managed.Buyers & agents to verify any and all information, information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to 1031 exchange.  SOLD for $815,000.

Cedar Ridge

(Oceanside)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Priced to sell at $419,900-$449,900! Welcome to your pristine new home! We love that it’s situated in a cul-de-sac, on a spacious lot, w/ a large enclosed front patio & an ideal back yard for all types of entertaining. This home is beautifully appointed w/ new stainless appliances, custom cabinetry, granite counters & so much more! Stay nice & cool w/ your brand new A/C unit & Furnace, & the roof has been totally refurbished w/ a 10 year warranty! FHA & VA buyers are welcome!  Sold for $430,000.

Avery 

(San Marcos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Charming end unit in Morgan’s Corner at San Elijo Hills. Highly desirable, rarely on the market, floorplan with 3 beds/3.5 baths plus 2 car attached garage & inviting/low maintenance/gated front courtyard. First floor features include: hardwood floors, plantation shutters, built-in & media cabinet, & half bath. Kitchen boasts granite counters, rich stained cabinetry, eat-at bar, & pantry. Second floor with Master bed/bath,secondary bed/bath, laundry room & storage. Private third floor bed/bath.  SOLD for $435,000.

Pacific Highway

(Downtown)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Sophisticated and elegant the Grande. Enjoy the luxury of one of the best addresses in downtown! This stylish home features two bedrooms two baths plus third room for den/office/bedroom, wood floors, fireplace, granite, marble & tile surfaces, high end stainless, wine chiller, down & under cabinet lighting, built in sound, power blinds, custom closets & wall paper. The Grande offers a community gym, spa, pool, steam room, dry heat spa, concierge and community room all at your finger tips.  SOLD for $750,000.

Muir

(Ocean Beach)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Remodeled home, 2.5 blocks from Dog Beach with large, tropically landscaped & fenced yard. Huge upside potential (details in supplement). Walk to heart of OB, restaurants, shops & entertainment. NEW Kitchen with quartz counters & SS appliances, windows, 200 amp electrical service, gas line, full gutters, water heater, tile shower surrounds, brick walkways & 30×12 patio. Beautiful REAL Hardwood floors, laundry closet for full sized stackable W/D, 3 parking spaces off alley.  SOLD for $770,000.

Monte Alto Terrace

(Rancho Bernardo)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer & Seller

No need to leave on vacation! Resort style living on OVERSIZED LOT with outdoor kitchen, custom fireplace, built in fountain & greenspace side yard. Immaculate Cabrillo home features Italian Revival architecture beautifully adorned with over $150,000 in upgrades! Grand size chef’s kitchen: beech cabinetry, tumbled stone backsplash, stainless applncs & built in desk. Main Floor office & Main Floor bed/full bath! OVERSIZED GARAGE: possible-4 car tandem. Steps to Del Sur Elem. & multiple parks & pools.  SOLD for $862,950.

Corte Morea

(Rancho Penasquitos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Beautifully upgraded home in centrally located Rancho Penasquitos. Open floorplan w gorgeous remodeled kitchen, granite countertops, SS appliances, tumbled stone backsplash, solid wood cabinets & large breakfast bar w pendant lighting. Convenient downstairs bed/bath. Newer vinyl dual pane windows, carpet, tile and baseboards. Fresh decorator paint & crown molding accents. Repiped w/commercial grade copper! Highly rated PUSD incl Westview HS. No HOA/Mello Roos. Easy access to parks, freeways & beaches.  SOLD for $783,000.

Deer Canyon 

(Torrey Highlands)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Pristine, move-in ready Torrey Highlands home. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, island. Volume ceilings and fine finishes. Large family room with dual sided fireplace to kitchen. Very private back yard; built in BBQ island and lush tropical landscaping make this a family’s and entertainer’s delight. Romantic master with deep soaking tub! Detached casita. Near the end of cul de sac with access to trails, nature preserve. Family friendly neighborhood. Easy freeway access to 56, 15 and 5.  SOLD for $879,000.

Least Tern Court

(Rancho Penasquitos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Rare, end of the cul de sac location directly on the canyon preserve with views and privacy, only one neighbor! Features 5 upstairs bedrooms and loft, convenient downstairs bedroom/office, 4 baths. Oversized lot w pool/spa, flagstone patios and front courtyard. Beautifully decorated w wood floors, crown molding, 4″ baseboards, designer paint colors. Spacious gourmet kitchen features SS GE Profile appliances, granite counters, double oven, large breakfast bar and kitchen nook. No HOA/low Mello Roos.  SOLD for $950,000.

Fallon Circle

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer & Seller

Rarely available and highly sought East Bluff Plan 1 Single Level Townhome End Unit on Fallon Circle! Fabulous quiet private location surrounded by greenbelt and two patios to offer indoor/outdoor entertaining! Move in ready with gorgeous granite, s/s appliances, plantation shutters, custom fireplace in living room with gas logs, custom lighting, designer paint, two master bedrms en suite plus two car garage. Conveniently located close to pool/spa, schools, shopping, beaches, & freeway.  SOLD for $648,000.

Carmel Creek

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Wonderful location in West Carmel Valley close to all! Private small enclave of patio style detached homes in gated Trilogy community. Great interior location with no road noise. Nicely updated with granite counters and tumbled stone backsplash in kitchen, and neutral decorator paint. Community pool/spa and BBQ for family fun. Close to world class beaches, freeways and shopping! Highly rated San Diguieto Schools including Torrey Pine HS. Low HOA and Mello Roos fees.  SOLD for $690,000.

Ruette De Mar

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer & Seller

Charming single story home in this highly desirable gated community. Wonderful floor plan with high ceilings lots of natural light, beautiful wide plank wood laminate flooring, neutral décor, open kitchen w/ Island, lovely master suite with sliding doors out to backyard overlooking tranquil views of water & Mtns, separate spa tub & shower, heated floors & walk-in closet. Community amenities: swimming pool/Spa, 4 tennis courts, gym, clubhouse & mini golf course! Top rated schools and so much more!  SOLD for $885,000.

Intermezzo

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Highly upgraded Cantamar plan 3 with great curb appeal, private front courtyard & impressive entry doors. Enter to travertine flooring & wrought iron stairway as you step down to a formal LR & DR with custom wine room built under stairway. The charming kitchen /family room area opens to resort style backyard with salt water and solar pebble tech pool surrounded by patio, built-in BBQ, and lounging conversation areas. Downstairs BR & MBR with totally remodeled bath. Conveniently located to all.  SOLD for $1,250,000.

Baywind Point

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Beautiful Promontory Plan 3 greets you w/ a stone gated courtyard & the soothing sound of water. The warmth of the wood floors & the chefs dream kitchen w/ SS Dacor & Bosch appliances, granite counters & eat in breakfast area will not disappoint. Master suite has a newly remodeled bathroom, fireplace, separate retreat & dual walk in closets. Private backyard features a jacuzzi, built in stone fireplace, gas bbque & lush landscaping. Cul de Sac street & walking distance to Ashley Falls elementary.  SOLD for $1,425,000.

 

Design Trends: Tone on Tone Color Layering

When it comes to decorating a room, you’ve probably heard than you should pick a palate of complimentary colors or even used neutrals with a “pop” of a bright color. But there’s a new decorating design trend on the rise: tone on tone color layering. This look is easiest to achieve with neutrals (think whites, greys, and beiges), but if you’re feeling brave, you can try it with any color you like! The key is to pick shades of the same color that have the same undertones (either cool or warm). See how tone on tone color layers transformed these spaces below!

All images via our Pinterest

 

 

 

The Pinteresting Five: Wall Murals

Sometimes the best thing to do with a blank wall is to go bold! Covering a wall in a mural or decal is a great way to inject personality in a room. It’s also easy to remove or repaint when it comes time to sell the home.

All images via our Pinterest

 

 

 

Recipe: Creme Brulee French Toast

What You Need:

 

½ c. of unsalted butter

1 c. packed brown sugar

2 tbsp. corn syrup

1 (8-9 in.) round load of Challah bread

5 large eggs

1 ½ c. half and half

1 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. Grand Marnier

¼ tsp. salt

 

Directions:

 

1. In a small, heavy saucepan melt butter with brown sugar and corn syrup over moderate heat, stirring until smooth.
2. Pour into a 13x9x2 baking dish.
3. Cut six, 1-in. thick slices from center of the bread, reserving ends for another use. Trim crusts.
4. Arrange bread slices in one layer in the baking dish, squeezing them slightly to fit.
5. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla, Grand Marnier, and salt until well combined. Pour evenly over bread.
6. Chill bread mixture eight hours.

Preheat oven to

10 Easy Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

One of the most important things you can do when you’re thinking of selling your home is improve its “curb appeal” or its overall look. From big projects like repainting the whole exterior to small projects like adding more bark to your flowerbeds, a little extra attention can go a long way. Here are ten easy things you can do to improve your home’s curb appeal.

1) Freshen Up Your Landscape

Add more bark, gravel, or rocks where it’s needed. If you’ve recently removed your lawn or are thinking of doing so, consider installing low maintenance landscaping. Even adding potted succulents around the front entry of the house can help give the yard a well tended feel.

2) Replace the Little Things

From old house numbers to a sticky front door handle, replacing the little things before buyers ever arrive at your home can help with your sale. Most buyers are looking to purchase a home that is “move-in ready” or one that won’t need any work right after purchase.

3) Wash the Windows

Wash those windows inside and out for glass that sparkles.

4) Paint the Front Door

If a new front door isn’t in the cards, a fresh coat of paint on an existing door can make it feel like new.

5) Clean Up Debris

Keep walkways and driveways freshly swept and clear of debris.

6) Upgrade Your Lighting

Change or fix any outdoor lights that don’t work well. If your home tends to look dark at night, consider adding some extra lights for a feeling of coziness and safety. Many potential buyers will come back and see your home after dark.

7) Fix Your Fencing

Repair, replace, or repaint any fencing that needs it.

8) Install a new Mailbox

If you have a mailbox on your property, replace it with a new one.

9) Clean Your Gutters

Make sure your gutters and drain sprouts are clean and free of leaves and sticks.

10) Accessorize

Purchase a new doormat or seasonal wreath to place outside the front door. It might not seem like much, but these little details make an impression on buyers. It creates the thought that the home has been well cared for before they ever step inside.

 

Contact us for even more curb appeal ideas!

Design Trends: Bookcase Styling

Bring your bookcase from bland to beautiful! There’s nothing wrong with a bookcase that is overflowing with books of all sorts, but if you don’t fancy yourself a bookworm or just haven’t found the time to go on a reading binge, follow our simple steps to make your boring bookcase transform into an extension of your own creative individuality! While the thought of styling your bookshelves can at first seem daunting, fear not! There are tricks and tips to make even the most novice decorator bring new life to their bookcase. Whether you prefer a consistent color theme or Feng Shui for artful appearance, there are tons of ways to give your shelves a more polished look.  See how creative bookcase styling and decoration gave these boring shelves an exciting new look in the images below!

 

All images via our Pinterest

 

 

 

 

 

Top 10 Reasons to Hire a Property Manager

Managing a property requires specific knowledge and a commitment of time and effort. Work, family, friends, and recreation all take up your time and effort. Here is a list of the top ten reasons why you should hire a property manager to help you.

Interested in a FREE quote to manage your property? Call Coastal Premier Properties Property Management at (858) 350-7575 or visit us www.coastalpremierpm.com!

 

1. Time: Managing all the daily tasks required to keep your properties running smoothly soon adds up to consume a lot of your time. Free yourself to spend your time with the things that matter to you most.

 

 

2. Communication:  We are never more than a phone call away. Day or night, we will keep you updated with all the details about the current status of your property.

 

 

3. Advertising your property: We know where to market your property to receive the most exposure. We help to ensure your vacancies are filled quicker.

 

 

4. Setting competitive rental rates: We will help to ensure that you will receive the maximum rental income by conducting a thorough market study of comparable properties in order to set a rental price for your property.

 

 

5. Locating qualified tenants: We have seasoned Property Managers who are experts at locating qualified tenants by conducting a thorough screening of all tenants. We handle running credit reports, background checks, verifying landlord/personal references and employment verification to make sure you get the ideal tenant for your vacancy.

 

 

6.  Tenant relations: We will manage all aspects of the tenant-landlord relationship from routine maintenance to emergencies. We are on-call 24/7 so you don’t have to be.

 

 

7.  Collection and disbursement of rental payments:  We understand that receiving payments on time is crucial to your financial plan.  Therefore, we have efficient systems in place to ensure timely rent collection and a direct deposit of your rental income into your account of choice.

 

 

8.  Vendors:  We have established relationships with maintenance workers, contractors, and vendors which allows us to ensure that you get quality work for a reasonable price.

 

9.  Compliance laws and regulations:  We can assist you in avoiding lawsuits by keeping your property up-to-date and in compliance with all the applicable local, state, and federal regulations to abide by when renting and managing your property.

 

 

10.  Profits: Rental properties are intended to generate income. We are dedicated to our owners and strive to maximize profits while minimizing the expenses and your risks.

 

The Pinteresting Five: Firepits

Summer is here! And what’s better than sitting outside on a nice summer’s night around a firepit? We love these great designs that are relatively easy to add to your own backyard!

All images via our Pinterest

Recipe: Pork Tenderloin

 

What You Need:

 

1 pork tenderloin

Salt

Garlic Powder

2 medium onions, sliced

1 c. chicken stock

¾ can tomato paste

 

Directions:

 

1. Rub a generous amount of salt and garlic powder over the tenderloin.
2. On medium high heat, sear all sides in olive oil.
3. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Lower the heat and cook sliced onions for a few minutes.
5. Add chicken stock and tomato paste and stir until combined.
6. Put pork back in.
7. Cook on stove for 45 mins to one hour.