Design Trends: Faux Wood Walls

Perhaps because of the popularity of shows like HGTV’s Fixer Upper, more people are trying to achieve that rustic farmhouse look in their own home. And for many people, that means wood-paneled walls. But real wood paneling can be expensive. Many people are achieving the look for less with faux wood wall paper and peel and stick wood panels. Here’s some ideas for using these two alternatives to faux wood paneling to get the Fixer Upper look in your home. You can even use it on furniture! And best of all, if you get tired of your wood paneling, you can remove it quickly and easily!

All images via our Pinterest

What Are Propositions 60 and 90?

Propositions 60 and 90 allow for a greater turnover of homes among senior citizens. Both propositions exempt homeowners over the age of 55 from Prop 13, which reassess property taxes to the current market level whenever a change in ownership takes place. Prop 60 is used for eligible individuals who move within the same county (intracounty) and Prop 90 is used for eligible individuals who move from one county to another (moving intercounty). You can only receive the benefit of Prop 60/90 once, unless you subsequently become disabled after the date of the original claim and need to move because of disability reasons (e.g. own a 2-story home and now need a single story home).

To be eligible for either Prop 60 or 90 you must fulfill the following criteria.

* You or your spouse must be at least 55 years of age when the original property is sold.

* You must use the replacement property as your primary residence. You cannot use Prop 60/90 with an investment property.

* The replacement property must of equal or lesser current market value than the original property.

* The replacement property must be purchased or built within two years (before or after) of the sale of the original property.

Additionally, if you are moving from one country to another, only certain counties in the state of California, allow you to apply the benefits of Prop 90. You can learn more here.

 

 

What is a Walk Score?

When searching for a home in San Diego, it’s important to consider your lifestyle. If you don’t own a car or don’t want to have to drive everywhere, you will want to pay close attention to a property’s Walk Score.

What is a Walk Score?

A walk-score uses a 0-100 scale to rate how “walkable” your home is.  It analyzes hundreds of walking routes to numerous amenities that are nearby.

The Breakdown

Each amenity will be given points depending on the distance. Everything withing a 5 min walk receives maximum points while no points are awarded for anything greater than 30 minutes.

Walk Scores:

90-100: Daily errands don’t require a car.

70-89 : Most errands can be accomplished on foot.

50-69 : Some errands can be accomplished on foot.

0-24 :  Most errands require a car.

The Walk Score also has other tools such as Transit Score and Bike Score which are determined in much the same way as a Walk Score.

Recipe: Lemon-Rosemary Coffee Cake

What You Need:

Parchment paper
3 large lemons
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup very cold butter, cubed
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup buttermilk*
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 (10-oz.) jar lemon curd
Powdered sugar
Garnishes: fresh rosemary sprigs, lemon slices

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Line bottom of pan with parchment paper.

2. Grate zest from lemons to equal 1 Tbsp. Cut lemons in half; squeeze juice from lemons into a bowl to equal 5 Tbsp. Reserve zest and 1 Tbsp. lemon juice.

3. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in bowl of a food processor; pulse 3 to 4 times or until blended. Add butter; pulse 6 to 7 times or until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve 1 cup flour mixture.

4. Transfer remaining flour mixture to bowl of a heavy-duty electric stand mixer. Add baking powder and baking soda; beat at low speed until well blended. Add buttermilk, egg, and 1/4 cup lemon juice; beat at medium speed 1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until batter is thoroughly blended, stopping to scrape bowl as needed. Stir in rosemary. Spoon half of batter into prepared pan.

5. Whisk lemon curd in a small bowl about 1 minute or until loosened and smooth; carefully spread over batter in pan. Top with remaining half of batter.

6. Stir together reserved lemon zest, 1 Tbsp. lemon juice, and 1 cup flour mixture; sprinkle lemon zest mixture over batter in pan.

7. Bake at 350° for 45 to 50 minutes or until a long wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

8. Let cool in pan on a wire rack 10 minutes. Gently run a sharp knife around edge of cake to loosen; remove sides of pan. Cool cake completely on wire rack (about 1 hour). Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

*Greek yogurt may be substituted.

Pinteresting Five: Modern Chandeliers

Craving a more modern look? These chandeliers not only light up the room, but also provide an interesting dimension to any space!

All images via our Pinterest

Change of Address Checklist

 

Moving?  It’s important to let people know you are relocating whether it’s across the street or across the country.  Here is a list of people and organizations to give your new address to!

 

• Your Employer
• Friends
• Family
• US Postal Service
• Current Landlord (If Applicable)
• Internal Revenue Service
• Credit Card Providers
• Insurance Companies
• Your Pet’s Veterinarian and Kennel
• Bank or Credit Union
• Department of Motor Vehicles
• Internet and Phone Service Provider
• Mobile Phone Service Provider (If Different)
•  San Diego Water
• San Diego Gas & Electric (San Diego Residents)
• Any Subscriptions (Magazines, Catalogs, Newsletters, etc.)
• Doctor, Dentist, Dermatologist, Optometrist, and Any Other Regular Doctors and Specialists
• Schools
• Voter Registration
• Social Security
• Clubs / Service Organizations
• Gyms or Any Sports Associations You May Be a Member Of

 

When you arrive at your new home, you may need to do some or all of the following, depending upon how far you moved!

• Apply For a State Driver’s License
• Register Your Car
• Register to Vote
• Register Your Children in Their New Schools
• Find a New Doctor and Other Specialists
• Set Up Your Prescriptions With a New Pharmacy
• Find a New Veterinarian and Kennel
• Set Up Gas and Electric Services
• Set Up Water
• Set Up Cable and Internet Services
• Set Up Trash and Recycling Services
• Join a New Gym
• Find a New Bank (If Your Old Bank Doesn’t Have Branches in Your Area)
• Join New Clubs and Organizations in Your Area

 

 

Just Sold: March 2016

Thank you for all your support, here are 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!

Via Anita

(La Jolla)

SOLD

Extraordinary gated estate on almost a half acre flat lot with city lights and ocean views! Turn-key completely remodeled single-level home features 4 bedrooms, an office and 4.5 baths. Perfect floor plan offers sea view rooms, gorgeous chef’s kitchen, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, 2 fireplaces. The glass doors open onto a private and tranquil south-facing backyard with built-ins and pool/spa, truly amazing ambiance for entertaining or just relaxing while enjoying stunning Pacific sunset. SOLD for $2,830,000.

Mesa Norte Drive

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

New Construction in Del Mar Mesa: Offering sweeping panoramic views this newly constructed semi-custom home is ready for immediate occupancy. The open floor plan & well-designed covered loggia sets the stage for indoor-outdoor living w/ a coastal vibe. Attached guest casita functions as the perfect home office, guest or multi-generational living quarters. Ocean breezes, acclaimed schools and abundant recreation are just a few of the reasons Brisa at Del Mar Mesa is redefining the Carmel Valley lifestyle.  SOLD for $2,200,000.

Lake Poway Rd

(Poway)

SOLD

Elegant Former Model Home in Serena. The moment you enter the Fabulous Courtyard you’re transported to Sheer Luxury. Soaring Windows in the Living Room showcase the ‘STAYCATION’ backyard and Breathtaking VIEWS of the hills. The Bright Kitchen has ‘Viking’ appliances, expansive center island and large pantry. Master bedroom and bath rival any 5 star resort. All bedrooms have attached bathrooms. A bonus is the reading/childs nook. Owned Solar and low maintenance landscaping is a true plus. Privacy galore.  SOLD for $1,650,000.

Foxhound

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

Elegance exudes inside & out from this immaculate home. Interior features include: Gleaming hardwood floors through-out, wrought iron staircase, plantation shutters, gourmet kitchen open to large family room, downstairs office & guest bedroom, large master suite with lavish bath & separate guest suite with exterior stairway. The exterior welcomes you with a lovely courtyard entry, corner lot, lush landscaping, BBQ & fire-pit all perfect for entertaining. All this plus top rated schools & so much more!  SOLD for $1,595,000.

Quail Run

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Distinctive Design, Impeccable Attention to Detail! Panoramic Views, Crystal Clear Pool, Glorious Upgrades, Additional Square Footage all on a Canyon Lot! Unlimited Amount of Upgrades Fill this Fabulously, Flowing Floor-Plan w/ Unique, Reclaimed-Split Railroad Ties Floors! Remarkable Views, Sparkling, Crystal Clear Pool/Spa! Entry-level Bed/Bath, Butler’s Pantry, Dedicated Office, Large Bonus/Loft Area! Master Suite: Walk-In Closet, Soaking Tub, Balcony. Walking Distance to Schools from K-12th Grade!  SOLD for $1,480,000.

Carmel Knolls

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

 

Relax into subtle elegance of Five Star living! This timeless traditional home has been beautifully updated & masterfully crafted in every detail. Over 3700 sq ft of living space w/ huge flat usable yard w/ fabulous large outdoor California Room w/fireplace! Gorgeous new flooring and custom paint, oversized office plus bedroom/bath downstairs, culinary kitchen w/all new s/s appliances! Sumptuous master suite w/sitting room & great built-ins in closet, large bonus room & beautiful “clean lined” interior!  SOLD for $1,435,000.

Obsidian

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING, END OF CUL-DE-SAC on OVERSIZED LOT in desirable La Costa Greens! SHOWS LIKE A MODEL & better than new! Private & peaceful setting! All new carpeting & custom paint throughout! Chef’s kitchen with top of the line appliances, granite counters, butlers & nook area! 3 fireplaces, formal LR & DR, downstairs office/bdrm w/full bath & private courtyard w/adjoining casita/game room! Relax in private bkyrd paradise w/ jacuzzi, built in BBQ, fire pit & more! Community pool, tennis, workout! SOLD for $1,250,000.

Highlands Ranch

(Poway)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Amazing hilltop Poway estate in the exclusive gated neighborhood of Highands Ranch.  Once you enter into the 5 bedroom, 5 bath home you instantly notice the care and detail that was given to every element inside and out.  Exquisite architecture, design and style.  10-20 foot ceilings, milgard windows, custom doorways, solid core 8 foot doors, arches, overhangs… just amazing!! Picture windows in every room.  stunning great room with custom kitchen, office dining room, TV room.  SOLD for $1,225,000.

Eastvale

(Poway)

SOLD

Fabulous former model by Barrett homes. 2.5 acre equestrian property with panoramic views!! Beautifully upgraded single level home. Interior courtyard and 10+ft ceilings provide abundant light! Chef’s kitchen with granite, stainless & butler’s pantry. Grand Master Suite with fireplace, covered patio & jetted tub. Top of the line amenities for horse lovers: show stable, arena, corral, tack shed and more. Trails through nbrhd to Lake Poway! SOLD for $1,200,000.

Abalone

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Beautifully appointed home in La Strada! Gorgeous sunsets and ocean views from master retreat, which features his and hers walk in closets. Beautiful marble floors and high ceilings throughout, gourmet kitchen with separate, elegant dining area. Features include plantation shutters, Noritz tankless water heater, water softener system, new carpets and fresh paint, Jenn Air refrigerator. Open floor plan with en suite bedroom downstairs for guests. French doors open to spacious backyard facing west to ocean.  SOLD for $1,176,000.

Ruette De Mer

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer & Seller

Step into this drop-dead GORGEOUS home & immediately feel the spacious flowing floorplan & all it has to offer! Striking birch hardwood floors span the entire first level & dramatic 20’ceilings showcase the natural light & airiness. Meticulous attention to detail was given to every home upgrade: Plantation shutters, silk drapery, stunning hand stripped/stained staircase banister coordinating perfectly w/new textured plush carpet. The garden pool adorned w/water fountains grace the beauty of this backyard.  SOLD for $ 1,124,000.

Briarcrest

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Lovely floorplan #3 in stunning Soleil at Bordeaux. This immaculate home features upgrades throughout including; beautiful tile throughout first level, epicure kitchen with appliances, gas stove top, and large granite island perfect for entertainment. Centrally located in Carmel Valley and is within walking distance of Cathedral High, Canyon Crest Academy, and Sycamore Ridge Elementary. Minutes to shopping, restaurants, movie theaters, and beaches!  SOLD for $1,040,000.

Mona Lane

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Your guests will be “wowed” in your private retreat that features a 19 foot two-story living room graced with wood floors, 8 foot solid doors, double crown molding, and a professional gourmet kitchen. SOLD for $985,000.

Catalina Blvd.

(Point Loma)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

This beautifully renovated home boasts every detail thoughtfully executed throughout! The open floor plan features a large living room with an inviting fireplace & bay window. The dining area opens onto the kitchen. The all new kitchen features silestone counters, new cabinetry, GE appliances. 3 spacious BRs, 2.5 BAs are also completely renovated! Amazingly large yard- front & back! The inviting front porch is sure to please! Tasteful “zen like” paint colors throughout!  SOLD for $950,000.

Corum Ct.

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

New Luxury Townhome located in Carmel Valley. Home boasts 2,595 sq ft including 3 Bedroom+Den, 3.5 Bath & Private Casita over the garage. Carmel Row brings modern architectural inspiration and upscale design to a desirable location. Private yards, porches, decks and gathering spaces are included in this easy-to maintain townhome so you can maximize time w/ family and friends. Ideally located in the Del Mar Union and San Dieguito Union School District. EASY ACCESS TO Hwy 5, 56 and local beaches.  SOLD for $915,000.

15th St.

(Del Mar)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Right in the heart of the village with ocean views from living room and bedroom. One block to park, beach, shops and restaurants and all that glitters in Del Mar. Entrance on main level of building for easy access. Seller will provide 2 underground parking spaces at L’Auberge which is directly across the street.  SOLD for $890,000.

African Holly

(Carmel Valley)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

You will be the winner in this highly upgraded home that’s better than brand-new. Strategically located, you and your family can walk to Solana Ranch elementary school, Pacific Trails middle school and Canyon Crest Academy high school. Light and bright location gives a spacious outdoor feeling while providing you with low outdoor maintenance. Parents and visitors will appreciate the guest bedroom on the main level with full bath.  SOLD for $890,000.

Paseo Callado

(Carlsbad)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

STUNNING Executive home in gated Montevina at Rancho Carrillo! VERY private location w/ 1 neighbor next door & open space behind. Upstairs: amazing Master Suite w/ deck, retreat, & HUGE walk-in closet plus add’l bedroom w/ balcony. Downstairs: 2 full bedroom suites plus half bath. Gourmet kitchen w/ double ovens that flows into the family room; formal living & dining rooms; elegant tile & carpet flooring, warm paint, shutters & fans throughout, 3-car finished garage w/ TONS of storage, so much more! SOLD for $890,000.

Chatsworth

(Point Loma)

SOLD

*Represented Seller

Charming 1930s Spanish jewel beautifully maintained inside & out! Gorgeous entry w/lead window reflecting lots of sunshine. Fabulous hardwood floors plus tiled fireplace w/built-in bookcases & mantle enhances a spacious living room. Formal dining, & a perfect office area overlooks the garden. Upgraded kitchen w/granite counters & SS appliances. Three great bedrooms w/ceiling fans & picture windows looking out to a gorgeous canyon & private garden views. Two full baths w/mosaic & subway tiles.  SOLD for $805,000.

America Way

(Del Mar)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Classic Del Mar Living! 3Br, 3Ba, 1688 esf residence in Spindrift Del Mar. Loads of natural light, neutral carpet & high ceilings. Kitchen w/SS appliances & breakfast nook. Fireplace in living room, master w/private deck, tub, separate shower & walk-in closet. Large deck w/peek of the ocean! Laundry room & attached two car garage. Spindrift revitalized w/new siding & new paint, new patio decks & trellis, plus new landscaping to come! Near Flower Hill Mall with Whole Foods, restaurants, and shopping. SOLD for $805,000.

Chevy Chase Drive

(La Mesa)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

FHA & VA welcome! Stunning Estate in La Mesa Village,walk to stores & Restaurants.Mid Century estate w/ vaulted open beam ceilings, two large decks to entertain and watch the sunsets.Custom remodel w/new cabinets & counters in your chef style kitchen, large open floor plan–panoramic views everywhere!! Downstairs family room for entertaining on below deck! One of the largest usable 15,000 plus sq ft lot!Plenty of room for pools or to add on! This lot is amazing!Watch the sunsets & entertain your guests!  SOLD for $735,000.

Haaland Glen

(San Diego)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer & Seller

Coveted corner lot designer home with gated wraparound patio + additional turf side yard & patio. Open & bright 3 bedroom + loft (ez 4th bedroom) hickory wood floors upstairs & tile downstairs. Additional upgrades include: espresso cabinets, granite, SS appliances, plantation shutters, ceiling fans, stone fireplace, built-in shelves & speakers. Bridgewalk at Del Sur has winding trails through open space, beautiful parks, heated pools, community events & is located in award winning Poway School District!  SOLD for $719,000.

Garden Path

(Rancho Bernardo)

SOLD

Bright & beautiful home with 3 current bedrooms & 2 optional bedrooms – 1 on main level. Gourmet kitchen: stainless steel appliances, granite counters & center island. Entertain or relax in family room w/surround sound & gas fireplace. Large loft with charming balcony. Master suite: private balcony, spacious walk-in & beautiful tile bath w/soaking tub. Enjoy outdoor living in open paver backyard framed by flower beds! Family friendly 4S offers top schools, easy freeway access & shopping, trails, parks.  SOLD for $705,000.

Meadowrun

(Rancho Penasquitos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Location Location Location! Amazing Property in the Heart of Rancho Penasquitos, within Acclaimed Poway School District. Corner lot Property. Lush Tropical Entrance. 3BD with optional BD. Completely Renovated Home with Vaulted ceilings and Lots of light! New Beautiful Dark hardwood flooring throughout the house. New Granite Counter-tops and Stainless Steel Appliances in Kitchen, New Berber Carpet, New Paint inside and out. Granite with glass vessel sinks in bathrooms.  Green clean and spacious back yard.  SOLD for $665,000.

Brightwood

(San Marcos)

SOLD

Priced to sell! Ocean views, numerous upgrades & walking distance to schools from trails! This spacious home boasts privacy with a greenbelt behind & desirable floor plan with a full bedroom & bathroom downstairs. Upgrades include plantation shutters, custom drapery & paint throughout, surround sound & built-in entertainment + tech center. Entertainer’s kitchen features granite counters, a chef’s prep island & stainless steel appliances. The garage includes epoxy flooring, built-in cabinets & work bench.  SOLD for $665,000.

Oakridge

(Del Cerro)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

The gem of Del Cerro!  This home has it all with westerly views of the city, spacious rooms throughout, plush new carpeting, custom Italian tile, dual pane windows, designer paint and has it’s own wet bar for entertaining with a view!  Huge master suite and extra large walk-in closet, dual sinks, tub & shower are separated, Jack & Jill bathrooms on second floor all on a quiet cul-de-sac and easy freeway access.  SOLD for $620,000.

Xana Way

(La Costa)

SOLD

A gated entry leads to ideal family within walking distance to La Costa’s award-winning school district! Great square footage and open floor plan. Entire main level is enhanced with low maintenance tile flooring and neutral tone walls. The second floor offers three bedrooms including the master with designer tile bath/shower alcove. Neighborhood amenities include a community pool, tot lot and play area. Enjoy the lifestyle!  SOLD for $585,000.

Mendocino Drive

(San Marcos)

SOLD

*Represented Buyer

Single Story Charmer in coveted Discovery Hills Community. Located in a desirable school district with easy access to nearby shopping, dining and highways. The 3 Bedroom 2 Bath property offers: an Open floor plan with light and bright interior**High volume vaulted ceilings **Updated Kitchen with Granite Countertops & Decorative tile backsplash** Newer GE Profile stainless appliances**Large italian porcelain tile flooring**Fireplace in the family room**Spacious & Tranquil backyard.  SOLD for $515,000.

San Diego Real Estate Report: March 2016

March’s real estate market in review: As of March 2016, the average detached home in San Diego County sold for $545,000, up slightly from the previous month.

As of March 2016, the average attached home (including condos, townhomes, and twinhomes) in San Diego County sold for $355,000, the same as last month.

The average detached home in San Diego spent 39 days on the market.

Condos, twinhomes, and townhomes in San Diego spent an average of 35 days on the market.

As of March 2016, we are in a seller’s market. On average, a seller of a detached home in San Diego County receives 96.8% of the original list price at the close of the sale, up slightly from the previous month.

As of March 2016, the owners of attached properties (condos, twinhomes, and townhomes) retained 97.2% of the original listing price, up slightly from last month.

The inventory of homes in San Diego County has gone slightly down, which is consistent with what we know that inventory is tight.

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!

Design Trends: Statement Bathroom Mirrors

Swapping out a simple bathroom mirror can add huge design impact!

All images via our Pinterest:

 

What Happens During An Open House?

An open house allows prospective buyers to come and view your home without an appointment. You may not wish to hold any open houses. But if you do, you should discuss with your agent what days and times work for you. You will want your house to be ready for the open house and you will also want to arrange for all of your family (and pets, if possible) to be out of the house for the entire period.

During an open house, your agent will greet potential buyers for your home. Many of these buyers will be attending the open house with their own agent, but some potential buyers may not have an agent or will stop by on their own. Your neighbors may also wander over to check out the inside of your home.

Your agent will answer any questions about your home as well as try to get a sense of the market feedback. What we mean by that is: how is the home showing? Is it priced right? Is there a lot of positive interest in your property?

After the open house, your agent will give you feedback about showing and also follow up with the perspective buyers and agents that came through that day.