Weekend Getaways Close to Home

When you already live in the best city on Earth, where do you go for vacation? Keep these places in mind when looking for an escape from San Diego whether it’s for a few hours or the weekend!

 

Hotel Del Coronado

Housed in a grand 1888 Victorian property, this luxury beachside resort hotel on Coronado Island is a 10-minute drive from downtown San Diego and sits on 28 oceanfront acres.

 

Estancia La Jolla & Spa

Looking to stay local for you vacation getaway?  Just 20 minutes from the city, Estancia La Jolla is a stylish hotel with pampering amenities including full service spas, a heated pool, and landscaped gardens all surrounded by hiking and biking trails.

 

The Grand Del Mar

The Grand Del Mar in San Diego is a unique place to visit. The resort offers championship golf, a luxury spa, and four swimming pools, ideal for lounging in the sun and relaxing Southern California-style.

 

Cleveland National Forest

Just 30 miles east of San Diego and covering more than 460,000 acres, the forest includes 15 campgrounds and the Laguna Mountain Lodge which offers 17 cabins and 12 motel units. The forest itself has 80 hiking trails, 45-plus horseback riding trails, numerous picnic facilities, scenic drives, and fishing at the Loveland Reservoir.

 

Temecula Wineries

The Temecula Valley Wine Country lies just 60 miles from San Diego and boasts 30+ wineries on 35,000 acres featuring picnic grounds, gift shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms at the oldest wineries in the region.

 

 Anza-Borrego

 

Just two short hours away from San Diego, you can experience Borrego Springs, where psychedelic sunsets rule and outdoor activities run all day. Borrego, a designated International Dark Sky Community, also has some of the best stargazing in the region.

Palm Springs

The desert resort town of Palm Springs, about 120 miles northeast of San Diego, typically sees the sun more than 350 days a year.  The city includes numerous casinos, golf courses, tennis courts, boutique shops, and the Palm Springs Aerial Tram, a nearly 6,000-foot ascent to the top of nearby Mount San Jacinto via a tramcar.

Joshua Tree

Filled with various types of trails that all lead to astonishing views along with horseback riding and rock climbing make Joshua tree easily worth the 2.5 hour drive from San Diego.

Downtown Los Angeles

A fun destination for couples and groups who want to do some sightseeing, get some shopping in, and catch some shows. Visit Rodeo Drive, see where the stars live, get your picture on the Walk of Fame, and hike to the Hollywood Sign!

 

Big Bear/Snow Summit 

With Bear Mountain only about 3 hours away from San Diego and offering snowboarding/skiing during the winter and hiking and paddle boarding on the lake during the summer, this is an ideal year round getaway spot.

 

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The famous Monterey Bay Aquarium continues to amaze youngsters with its floor-to-ceiling marine habitat displays. It now features a new tentacle-themed exhibit featuring squid, cuttlefish, and the world’s largest octopus. Monterey is a longer drive from San Diego than some of the other vacation spots on this list, but it is well worth the time.

 

Hearst Castle

This Italian and Spanish styled castle 1 hour north of San Louis Obispo sits on 250,000 acres and features numerous gardens, pools, libraries, and bathrooms.  Once belonging to William Randolph Hearst, a newspaper tycoon, it is now a designated spectacle for tourists.

 

Grand Canyon

If you visit the Grand Canyon from May to October,try the North Rim region, which sees 4 million fewer visitors every year than the South Rim. You won’t have to fight the crowds at this outdoor hot spot.

 

What is your favorite getaway from San Diego, America’s Finest City?

Design Trends: Pool Houses

Repurposing your pool house is a great way to add square feet to your house, and a place for grandma to stay when she comes into town! Here is some inspiration to help convert your unused pool house into a comfortable living space.

All images via our Pinterest

 

San Diego’s Best Trick or Treating Neighborhoods 2015

This Halloween, take your little ones to some of San Diego’s best neighborhoods for trick or treating!

Bird Rock

-This small, beachy section of La Jolla is a great place for those wanting a more traditional trick-or-treating experience. Start at the decorated shops on La Jolla Boulevard and then make your way to the gated communities nearby. Treats stop getting handed out at 8pm so make sure to get there early!

Carlsbad

-This great family friendly neighborhood is great for the little ones.

Carmel Mountain

-The Carmel Mountain neighborhood is said to be a great place to get candy for kids in costumes. For the little ones that may not make it into the night, participating merchants at Carmel Mountain Plaza will be giving out candy from 3-5pm on Friday October 30th and will even feature live music!

Carmel Valley

-Visit the Del Mar Highlands Town Center Plaza on Wednesday, 10/28 between 4-6pm for trick or treating!

Coronado

-Local merchants and the Main Street Association of Coronado team up to provide a great night for the little ones.

Encinitas

-Encinitas 101 Main Street is hosting a safe trick or treating event for kids on Halloween between 5-8pm. Merchants from Encinitas Blvd. to K Street hand out treats to costumed kids. Kids can also enjoy games, activities, and a visit with Her Royal Highness!

La Jolla Village

-Another great stop for trick or treating!

Little Italy

-Local businesses on India street will be providing goodies for kids in costume.

Kensington

-This small community goes all out on Halloween! Popular streets for candy collecting include Edgeware, Canterbury Drive, Adams, and Marlborough. This area is great for the whole family, however parking can be little tricky so make sure to get there on the earlier side to get your spot!

Mission Hills

-Located just north of Old Town, this is a great location for Halloween exploration. The neighborhood has been known to go all out with all sorts of fun (and scary!) decorations. Not recommended for the very little kids or those that get scared easily, but older kids should love seeing all of the effort that the residents put in here.

Scripps Ranch

-Considered by many to be THE hotspot for trick or treating on Halloween. Residents have been known to give out full-sized candy bars (!!!) and even sometimes dollar bills. The Scripps Ranch marketplace also hosts an annual event a few days before Halloween that features rides, store treats, and more!

Pinteresting Five: Healthy Fall Treats

With fall comes many delicious treats, check out some of these healthier twists on everyone’s favorite classic fall desserts!

Pumpkin Overnight Oatmeal: Swap out the greek yogurt and milk with almond milk yogurt and almond milk for a dairy free alternative!

Carmel Apple Nachos: Everyone will love these bite-sized carmel apples!

Pumpkin Bread: The use of applesauce is a healthy alternative for regular table sugar, and it helps makes the pumpkin bread moist.

Pumpkin Rice Krispies: These cute, and delicious, pumpkin treats are great to take to parties, especially a halloween party!

No Bake Pumpkin Cookies: Simple, delicious, and guilt free!

Check out last year’s “Pinteresting Five: Halloween Treats”!

Recipe: Apple Bundt Cake

What You Need:

For the apples:

1 1/2 pounds Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch slices
1 lemon, juiced
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the batter:

4 large eggs
1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
2 cups sugar
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup warm water
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon baking powder

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix the apples with the lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl and let stand while you make the batter.

Lightly whisk the eggs in a large mixing bowl. Add the oil, melted butter, sugar, vanilla and water and whisk until smooth. In a separate mixing bowl combine the flour, salt, and the baking powder. Use a whisk to mix the dry ingredients together. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet mixture and stir just until incorporated. Do not overmix.

Generously grease and lightly flour a Bundt pan. Pour 1/4 of the batter into the pan, and then arrange a 1/3 of the apples around the top of the batter. Make 2 more layers of apples, smoothing the batter over them after each addition. Top off with the last of the batter and smooth.

Bake about 1 hour 10 minutes, until risen, the top is nicely browned, and a sharp knife inserted in the middle of the cake comes out dry. Let cool in the pan until the cake starts to release from the sides before unmolding.

Design Trends: Unique Shed Materials

If you love the idea of transforming an under-utilized shed into something beautiful, but lack the existing structure and prefab kits aren’t for you, we have some inspiration for uniquely constructed backdoor structures. Whether converted garage, shipping container, boxcar, greenhouse, or pods, the only limit is your imagination*!

*Disclaimer: These are intended as inspiration only and may or may not affect resale value.

All images via our Pinterest

Just Sold: September 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!

Corte Aciano

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Walk to new shopping center!  Amazing westerly & ocean views on cul-de-sac street in desirable La Costa Oaks, Step inside to rich wood flooring, custom paint, soaring ceilings & bright open floorplan!! The chef’s kitchen features granite counters, SS appliances & adjoins to large family room! Upstairs you will find four spacious bedrooms (one currently used as office) including the master w/view balcony! Full bdrm suite on first floor & much more! SOLD for $1,049,000.

Paseo Cerro

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

This stunning home Ocean View is located in the highly sought after community of Rancho Carrillo on a private lot at the end of a culdesac on over half and acre. The flowing open floorplan w/ 4 bedrooms plus optional 5th, living room w/ fireplace, dining room, sitting room w/ fireplace, family room w/fireplace, large loft w/ balcony, & built-in tech center. Kitchen boasts granite counters & stainless appls. Large Master w/ Retreat offers stunning views. See supplemental remarks below for more info.  SOLD for $1,175,000.

Cantil

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

This twinhome feels like a detached home. Tile flooring downstairs with new carpeting in living room and throughout bedrooms. Enjoy your kitchen with brand new appliances, with a nice fenced-in backyard view. Large 2 car garage with washer & dryer hookups. Located on corner of a cul-de-sac street.  SOLD for $635,000.

Cantil

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

The perfect investment. An attached Twinhome, each feels like a detached home with 2,250 sq.ft. of spacious and bright living area. Brand new wood floors on first floor, new carpet upstairs. New Range, dishwasher, microwave, countertops & cabinets. NO HOA or Mello Roos! WOW! Large 2-car garage with washer/dryer hook-ups. Located on a quiet corner lot on a cul-de-sac street, large fenced backyard.  SOLD for $635,000.

Sitio Montecillo

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

When only PERFECTION will do!! Prestigious & gated La Costa Ridge at its finest!! Breathtaking ocean & canyon views from this private 1/4 acre masterpiece! Absolutely stunning, resort style backyard which features pool/spa/waterfall, custom stone fireplace & full outdoor kitchen! Extensive use of the most exquisite upgrades throughout! One full bedroom suite & office on the first floor. Upstairs you will find secondary bedrooms all w/own bath, huge loft & lavish master! Meticulous showplace!!!  SOLD for $1,646,775.

Ocean View

(Del Mar)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Turn-key stunning coastal home located on one of the most sought after streets in Olde Del Mar! This gorgeous 4 BD + office/OPT BD & 3 full BA residence has been featured in S. D. Home & Garden magazine. Enjoy this highly upgraded & remodeled home with natural light, high ceilings, open floor plan, custom detailing & OCEAN VIEWS! The backyard is an entertainers dream w/ beautiful succulent gardens, spa & BBQ. There is a 2-car finished garage w/ Saltillo tile flooring & a 3-car garage w/ tons of storage.  SOLD for $2,575,000.

Rosebay 

(Encinitas)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Adorable updated 2 bedroom Pacific Serena twinhome with attached garage, remodeled kitchen and bathroom. 2 mile dog walk at the end of the street. Front and backyard with better soil on drip system, silver carpet on the front. Enjoy the large backyard for entertaining, close to beach, shopping, schools, and fwy. SOLD for $590,000.

The Strand

(Oceanside)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Beautiful ocean front home boasts lovely panoramic views of the water and breath taking sunsets.  Just steps to the pier, marina, shops and restaurants!  Prime corner/end unit.  Private and gated small community with garage parking.   Large sliding doors in the living room and master bed to enjoy the views and ocean breeze.  Master has retreat area and en suite bath, upstairs laundy closet, half-bath off entry, kitchen w/ breakfast bar.  Perfect place to call home or as a beach get-a-way.  SOLD for $880,000.

Calligraphy

(Oceanside)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

For those looking for something truly special in Rancho Del Oro. Rarely available plan w/ stunning upgrades. Custom backyard w/ VIEWS. Nestled in a private cul-de-sac in a great neighborhood, you’ll enjoy endless summer days and ocean breezes. Vaulted ceilings & large open floor concept. Fully remodeled kitchen w/ newer appliances & accessories. New exterior & interior paint, walnut stair case w/ stainless steel casing, modern flooring, Bali wood blinds, & much more!  SOLD for $544,000.

Mira Loma

(Poway)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Located in the exclusive enclave of Lomas Verdes Estates, rests an enchanting home set on an acre of park-like grounds. This stunning home has marvelous indoor-outdoor flow, ideal for entertaining. A striking living room and dining area features a majestic open wood beam ceiling. The kitchen with granite countertops, center island, with walk in pantry, looks out onto a cascading waterfall, and nearby sun drenched pool, gazebo, entertainment area with a BBQ and plenty of outdoor sitting area.  SOLD for $1,365,000.

Creekside

(Vista)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Family friendly neighborhood in the gated community of Moncado Springs. This 3 bedroom, 3 bath home offers an open floor plan concept. Stainless steel appliances and kitchen opens up to the dining area and family room. The backyard has a play structure slide for kids , artificial grass and family garden. Community offers pool, spa, club hose, tot lot park and walking trails. Front landscaping included in HOA fees.  SOLD for $442,000.

Harbor

(Vista)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer & Seller

“This wonderful residence on Harbor Drive, in the desirable and family oriented gated community of The Cove in Shadowridge, is an entertainer’s dream!” Upgraded kitchen cabinets, SS appliances, and beautiful tile counter-tops,backslash and flooring. Gorgeous hardwood flooring and custom paint throughout. Two full bathrooms upstairs. Masterbath has stunning custom tile shower. Newer A/C, hot water heater, and furnace. Backyard has private mature landscape. Low HOA with community pool and spa included.  SOLD for $461,000.

Madrid

(Vista)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Stop and smell these fragrant roses and then step inside your new home. The home and over 25 rose bushes have been lovingly maintained by one owner. Sip a glass of wine on the front patio or barbeque in your backyard under the pergola. This light and open 3 bedroom has a loft, 2 fireplaces, a downstairs master bedroom, and a downstairs 1/2 bath for guests. The kitchen window overlooks the patio and private fenced yard. There is a community pool, hot tub and the annual 4th of July party.  SOLD for $463,539.

Beech 

(Downtown)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Amazing northwest bay and city views from this one bedroom immaculate condo. Sit on the spacious balcony to enjoy a magnificent sunset. Granite countertops in kitchen and bathroom. Entertain friends and family in your home or enjoy a BBQ in the courtyard adjacent to the pool and spa. State of the art fitness center and recreation area (with pool table). La Vita is centrally located and one of most desirable high-rises in Little Italy. Walk to restaurants, shopping and nightlife.  SOLD for $440,000.

Dale

(San Diego)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Stunning Spanish Mission revival style home in the coveted hip and happening South Park. Double floor height beamed ceilings in the grand salon style living room and wood burning fireplace with Laird Plumleigh hand crafted tiles sets the stage for warm family gatherings and entertaining. From the living room, arched patio doors open to professionally designed walled patio garden with custom tile Moorish style water fountain. Large formal dining room with fireplace supports casual entertaining options.  SOLD for $830,000.

Bayside

(Mission Beach)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Wake to panoramic bay views, enjoy fireworks and the twinkle of city lights from the master suite, kitchen, breakfast nook, living and formal dining rooms then relax in the spa style master bath featuring oversize dual head steam shower and Jacuzzi tub with river rock and granite detail. This home is an amazing investment opportunity, perfect as a primary residence or as a luxury vacation rental. SOLD for $2,950,000.

Rancho La Bella

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

An enclave of 10 estate homes in the San Dieguito Valley near the polo fields and Del Mar Horse Park. This exquisite neighborhood includes beautiful views and generous homesites averaging 1/2 acre. Distinctive architecture and Spanish style sets this single level home apart from the others. Includes outdoor room outside of living/dining room, sliding doors at family room and sliding doors at living/dining room, and a 20 panel solar package.  SOLD for $2,117,050.

Tanzanite

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Stunning showplace at end of cul-de-sac in prestigious, gated Balearas in La Costa Greens! This largest floorplan in the community is situated on a premium lot with sweeping La Costa golf course views! Step inside to rich wood flooring, custom paint, built ins, extensive use of crown molding, granite, ss appliances, large office & guest suite downstairs & huge loft upstairs! Entertainers bkyrd w/custom fountain, bar & BBQ! Community pool, tennis courts, workout & rec room!  SOLD for $1,495,000.

Fairwind

(Poway)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Unobstructed Ocean Views, Cul-de-sac location, and no HOA! This 4 bed 4.5 bath home is located in the ideal Sansonnet neighborhood of Carmel Valley/ Torrey Hills. The home is walking distance to awarding winning Ocean Air Elementary, Ocean Air Park and many hiking trails. Grocery, restaurants, banks and coffee shops are also just a short stroll. Each bedroom is an en-suite and the first floor bed/bath has safety rails. Large yard features a built in BBQ.  SOLD for $1,325,000.

Jarman

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

The Heights. Plan 4 on cul-de-sac. Full bedroom & bath downstairs & powder room. Wood flooring used in lower living areas. Granite countertop in kitchen. View to rear yard faces west , privacy & great breezes from the west. Master suite features 2 large walk in closets, step in shower & separate tub. Taseteful decor tones throughout. Retreat off master & fireplace. One upstairs bedrooms is huge & makes for great rec area/home office. Mature landscape & ez maintenance. Walk to Torrey High.  SOLD for $1,121,100.

Rabbit Ridge

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

This highly upgraded 2,724 s.f. Bordeaux home features 4 BD/3 BA, with 1 Bedroom/1 bath downstairs for guests or teen, with an optional library or media room upstairs. Gourmet kitchen w/granite counters, plantation shutters, crown molding, stainless steel appliances and built-in media center. Conveniently located near all (shopping, best Carmel Valley schools), with access to the beautiful Pacific Highlands community club with gym and pool!  SOLD for $1,070,000.

Almaden

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Custom executive home, golf cart close to the La Costa Omni Resort! Gracious & spacious floor plan w/views of the golf course and hills beyond! Warm hardwood floors in the main areas! Open kitchen overlooks FR. Formal DR! 3 FPs! Plantation shutters throughout! Sweeping spiral staircase leads to upper level w/elegant master suite & 2 generous BRs! One BR/Bth downstairs! Enjoy Sunrises & sunsets from South facing patio & deck off master! No HOA or Mello Roos! Seller Ready to sell and will look at offers!  SOLD for $1,010,000.

Arroyo Grande

(Rancho Penasquitos)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Stunning home with a flowing floorplan in family-friendly Torrey Highlands. Chef’s kitchen: granite counters, stainless appliances, gorgeous cabinets & stone backsplash. Private Master Suite overlooks both courtyard & backyard; bath features 2 walk-in closets, granite, soaking tub. Children’s wing: 3 large bedrooms, open loft & expansive work station. Welcome guests in elegant parlor lined with windows. Enjoy outdoor living: drought-resistant landscaping, lawn, patio & open setting w/no back neighbors.  SOLD for $800,000.

Carmel Valley Rd

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Tranquility awaits you from the moment you enter this beautiful home. 3Bd+ built-in desk / work area up. A chef’s delight, completely upgr kit, solid wood cabinets in maple dove white, counter tops pearl blue granite, SS appl, quiet LG dishwasher, microwave w/convection oven, counter depth refrigerator space, newer sink, garbage disposal & faucets. Repl can lights w/ LED, added LED under cabinet lighting. Hardwood floors in downstairs and spare bdrm.  SOLD for $750,000.

Wild Orchid

(Rancho Bernardo)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Nicely upgraded 3bed/2.5 bath w optional 4th bed/office, located in the highly desirable 4S Ranch/Poway schools, 1,908 s.f. on a private corner Lot. Beautiful kitchen, stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and tons of cabinet space. Large master suite, walk-in custom closet and spa like bathroom. Bright, open living room features; fire place, surround sound, custom entertainment center, high end wood floors and custom Hunter Douglas Shades throughout. This house is a must see.  SOLD for $690,000.

Maler

(Rancho Penasquitos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Charming 4 BR/3 BA home. One bed/bath down. Open floorplan. Large Living/ Dining combo is versatile living area. Kitchen boasts new granite counters Walls recently retextured. Serene mountain/valley views from breakfast area. Snuggle up in Family Room watching the cozy fireplace. The kitchen opens to this room. And outside on the deck you can enjoy sunset views in the summer. Upstairs the Master is tucked away in the back and the two front bedrooms share a Jack & Jill bath.No HOA or Mello Roos.Easy living  SOLD for $680,000.

Cadencia

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Resort style living in Carmel Valley, upgraded 3bd/2.5ba townhome w/new carpet, fresh custom paint, new ss appliances, granite, AC, indoor laundry, master retreat w/ walk-in closet. Coveted quiet location w/ patio open to grassy area. Attached 2 car garage w/storage. Luxurious community amenities: pool, spa, full gym, sauna, steam, tennis & basketball courts; BBQs, tot lot, Clubhouse w/billiards & TV rm & 2bd guest suite. Near upscale shops & award winning schools! Easy access to 5/56 & miles to ocean!  SOLD for $604,500.

Avenida La Cuesta

(San Marcos)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Close to elementary, high school and university! Light and Bright 3-bedroom residence is located in highly desirable Buenavida gated community, near CAL State San Marcos, new San Marcos High School and Palomar College. It’s also convenient to shopping, freeways, golfing and walking trails. Two separate car garages. Large master bedroom with it’s own sitting area. Low maintenance backyard. Excellent investment property or a great opportunity to own a beautiful home!  SOLD for $545,000.

Cesped 

(Tierrasanta)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Light and bright with panoramic views of San Diego! This move-in ready, modern stylish home has been meticulously cared for and has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths in 1,704 esf of living space. The remodeled kitchen features new cabinets, granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances, and opens into the inviting family room with a fireplace. The gorgeous living room and dining room are perfect for entertaining family and friends. Amenities include dual pane windows, central A/C, hardwood floors. Cul de sac!  SOLD for $545,000.

 

Merrimac

(Clairemont)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Beautifully remodeled home. Huge backyard, detached two car garage, great location. New exterior stucco, trim and paint. New doors, windows, sliders. New bamboo hardwood floors, new carpeting. New bathrooms and kitchen with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Not a flip. Owner relocated.  SOLD for $479,000.

Via Francesco

(Rancho Penasquitos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Amazing Town home in the centrally located Bellardo Complex of Torrey Highlands. Interior features beautiful hardwood floors, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, spacious kitchen with separate eating area. This tri-level floorplan offers privacy yet still feels open and light. 2 car attached garage has large storage room and a separate laundry room! Community pool along with a walk across the street to shopping/restaurants, makes this an unbeatable location!  SOLD for $475,000.

Lancaster

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Wonderful townhome at The Cape in Calavera Hills. Great floor plan with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, fenced backyard and attached 2-car garage. Walk to community park + garden. HOA maintains front yard, exterior, roof and pool/spa. Buildings being painted by HOA this year /no assessment, Carlsbad Schools, no MelloRoos..  SOLD for $470,000.

 

 

7 Tips to Prepare for El Nino

Our recent round of rain has reminded everyone that El Nino is on its way to San Diego! But, since we’re consistently blessed with mild weather, it can be hard to think about preparing for storms that we haven’t seen in years. Here’s our best tips for the 7 things to do now so you’ll be prepared for the wet winter weather!

1) Inspect your home. Consult with a qualified professional to get any damage repaired like loose or missing shingles on your roof, holes, or other signs of wear and tear on your home. There’s nothing worse than having a leaky roof when the rain won’t let up.

2) Clear and repair your gutters. Make sure your gutters are as rain-ready as the rest of your home! Clear them of any debris and trim back any branches or bushes. Strong wind and rain can knock debris into the gutters and block them.

3)  Make a list. Note everything you own, including estimated value, and take photographs of your property inside and out. Make sure to store these items in a safe deposit box at the bank. In the event of an insurance claim, this will help the insurance adjuster.

4) Make copies. Create duplicates of your important documents for your home. Keep the originals of things like your passport and birth certificate in a safe deposit box at the bank.

5) Consider insurance. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, review your flood insurance policy and increase coverage if necessary.

6) Get supplies. Stormy weather means you could lose electricity. It could also make the roads slippery and dangerous to drive on. Stock up on non-perishable items like bottled water, canned foods, granola bars, crackers, trail mix, and other items you could eat in the event you lose power or can’t leave your house. This is also a good time to restock your first aid kit and pick up extra batteries and flashlights. And don’t forget your pets! Store extra pet food, medicines, and first aid supplies for your furry loved ones, too.

7) Consider a backup generator. If you or anyone in your home relies on electricity for medical needs, you may want to consider installing a backup generator in case your home does lose power.

What are your your best El Nino preparedness tips? Share them with us in the comments.

 

San Diego Real Estate Report: October 2015

September’s real estate market in review: As of September 2015, the average detached home in San Diego county sold for $530,000, down 3% from last month.

As of September 2015, the average attached home (including condos, townhomes, and twinhomes) in San Diego county sold for $350,000, down 1% from last month.

The average detached home in San Diego spent 34 days on the market.

Condos, twinhomes, and townhomes in San Diego spent 30 days on the market, on average.

By now, you’ve probably heard the term “Seller’s Market” thrown around a lot to describe the San Diego Real Estate market. But how exactly do we know that? By evaluating the ratio of sales price to list price, we can determine whether the market is more favorable for buyers or sellers. The closer that ratio moves to 100, the more negotiating power the seller has to get their asking price. As that ratio moves away from 100, the more opportunity we see that a buyer has to negotiate on the price. Perhaps that means the home has been sitting on the market too long. Or maybe there are too many similarly priced properties on the market. If a seller can’t afford to wait for the price they want, they will have to make some concessions to the buyer…usually in the form of price.

So, as of September 2015, what kind of market are we in? In examining the data for all of San Diego County, we discover that we are still in a seller’s market, though the direction of the graph indicates that we may be moving towards a buyer’s market. On average, a seller of a detached home in San Diego County, receives 96.4% of the original list price at the close of sale, a slight upturn from last month.

As of August 2015, the owners of attached properties (condos, twinhomes, and townhomes) retained 96.8% of the original listing price.

The inventory of homes in San Diego County has fallen a little. We would expect to see a bit of a drop, no matter the market conditions, after the summer months which are traditionally the busiest of the real estate year.

 

The supply of attached properties continues to decline.

 

 

Are you interested in seeing this breakdown for your San Diego community or zipcode? Let us know!

 

Pinteresting Five: DIY Autumn

Autumn is here (even though it doesn’t feel like it yet!) and we’ve got some fall crafts and decoration ideas for you today! Check out the inspiration we’ve shared in years past here and here!

All images via our Pinterest