During the In-Season months of April through October, this 90-minute, fully narrated journey departs from Seaport Village on Harbor Drive in San Diego seven days a week.  During the Off-Season, November through March, the Seal Tour operates Thursday through Monday only.

Driven by experienced sea captains, this open air tour vehicle allows everyone to view the land and sea with unobstructed views.  As you start your journey, you travel along beautiful Harbor Drive while your tour guide tells you a bit of history about San Diego, America’s finest city.  As your land travels continue, you will view the oldest active sailing vessel in the world, the U.S.S. Midway, which is permanently docked in San Diego as a museum.  You will also pass by the San Diego International Airport dedicated to aviator Charles Lindbergh.

When you reach the San Diego Bay off Shelter Island, your tour bus turns into a boat as you splash down into the water, beginning your voyage on the sea.  What a feeling that is!  When floating on the open seas, you’ll be able to see the seals and sea lions up close and personal in their popular playground.  You’ll travel in the Big Bay which provides views of Point Loma, home to the Cabrillo National Monument, the Naval Air Station North Island, the Point Loma Submarine Base and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Regular adult prices are $34.00 but if you book online at www.sealtours.com it’s only $30.60.  Children, ages 4-12, are $19.00 each or $17.10 online.

Ask any elementary school child the difference between a seal and a sea lion and you’ll be surprised they know the answer!  But in the meantime, take your friends or your entire family on this unique one-of-a-kind experience and enjoy the San Diego Seal Tour today!

If you’re interested in a beautiful, scenic hike/walk, then be sure to experience this adventure.  It starts at Torrey Pines State Beach (there is a $10 per car parking fee or you can park free of charge about a mile down the main highway).  Once you get to the paved road at the bottom of the hill, you’ll start your hike up to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.  As you reach the top, you’ll see many different trails (all clearly marked) and you’ll be able to head off on different dirt paths.  There is even a path that heads out to an opening overlooking the ocean where they have weddings!  If you’re looking for a unique place to “tie the knot”, check it out!

It seems the most popular trail is Flat Rock Beach Trail which leads from the main road all the way down to the beach.  With its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the scenery of the natural reserve, this 1/2 mile hike (one-way) is one of the prettiest in all of San Diego County.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a day-use park only.  There is no overnight camping facility and picnics are only permitted on the beach.  Food or drinks (water being okay) is not permitted in the Reserve or the mesa above the beach.  Keep in mind there isn’t any place to buy drinks or food so please come prepared with your own water, especially in the summertime when the weather is very hot.  There are clean public restrooms available for your use near the beach.

Torrey Pines is visited by travelers from all over the world and by local residents who come daily to see the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or walk on peaceful trails.

So when you’re thinking of what to do one day, and want to experience the great outdoor weather in San Diego, why not hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve?  You’ll be glad you did!

Directions – Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is located between La Jolla and Del Mar, just north of San Diego.  Take Interstate 5 to Carmel Valley Road, go West to Camino Del Mar (Coast Highway) and then go South (left) about a mile to the reserve entrance on your right at the foot of the hill.

The hospitals below were ranked among the top 50 in the nation for their specialties.

See the list below….

UCSD Medical Center

1.    Pulmonology 16th
2.    Psychiatry 19th
3.    Diabetes and Endocrinology 25th
4.    Nephrology 34th
5.    Cancer 47th
6.    Orthopedics 48th

SCRIPPS LA JOLLA

1.    Cardiology and Heart Surgery 45th

RADY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL (my favorite hopital)

1.    Pediatric Orthopedics 4th
2.    Pediatric Urology 13th
3.    Pediatric Neonatology 21st
4.    Pediatric Diabetes and Endrocrinology 24th
5.    Pediatric Cancer 25th
6.    Pediatric Pulmonology 28th
7.    Pediatric Nephrology 29th
8.    Pediatric Cardiology and Heart Surgery 30th
9.    Pediatric Gastroenteriology 31st
10.    Pediatric Neurology and neurosurgery 37th

Top 5 Hospitals in San Diego County

1.    UCSD Medical Center
2.    Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla
3.    Scripps Mercy Hospital, San Diego
4.    Sharp Memorial Hospital, Serra Mesa
5.    Scripps Memorial Hospital, Encinitas

Where are the top rated Hospitals where you live??

1.    UCSD Medical Center – La Jolla
2.    Scripps Mercy Hospital – San Diego
3.    Scripps Memorial – La Jolla
4.    Sharp Memorial Hospital – San Diego
5.    Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center – Chula Vista
6.    Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women and Newborns – San Diego
7.    Sharp Hospital Coronado – Coronado
8.    Scripps Memorial Hospital – Encinitas

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This unique shopping mall that has it all… from specialty shops to restaurants to a 12-Screen AMC Theatre and so much more.  The open air setting is great for not only shopping and dining, but a perfect place to walk down the streets spending time with friends, family, children and pets.  There’s even a 10,000 square foot Dog Park for owners who wish to bring their dogs along while shopping.

Otay Ranch Town Center has four uniquely themed areas highlighting distinct California flavors. The “Garden Court” is located on the west side of the center and features a popular mix of traditional retailers along with REI.  In “Center Court”, shoppers enjoy the heart of Otay Ranch Town Center with its fashionable retailers, food pavilion, party space, fountains, chalk garden and fireplace.  Located on the east side is the “Entertainment Court”, which includes Barnes & Noble and first-class restaurants such as King’s Fish House, California Pizza Kitchen, Cheesecake Factory and Nico’s Steak and Chop House. The last themed area is called “Lifestyle Row” and is on the far west side of the center and features upscale lifestyle stores.

And let’s don’t forget about the South side of this unique and different type of mall with restaurants such as Romano’s Macaroni Grill, P.F. Chang’s and Chili’s along with Macy’s, the mall’s only department store.

Eastlake – a place to live (see all Eastlake Homes for Sale and Chula Vista Real Estate for Sale), a place to work and now a place to shop. Why go anywhere else?

Located at 4055 Adams Avenue in San Diego, is this fantastic neighborhood eatery.  For the past 16 years, it has grown into one of San Diego’s favorite upscale casual dining spots.  It’s proud to serve “New American” cuisine, where anyone can find something that meets their taste.

The Kensington Grill has recently introduced a new menu format that offers diners a larger, more price-conscious selection of meals to be enjoyed either “family-style” or the traditional single serving.  Either way, you’ll find what you are looking for.

Creatively designed is their menu:  You can order “Bites” and “Sides” for starters.  There’s meals that are served on “Buns” (like a simple Meatloaf Burger, for instance) with your choice of many different and delicious toppings.  Or why not have your meal served on a “Board”? Meals also come in “Bowls” where you can order salads or pasta.  For the different size appetites, they have “Small Plates” and/or “Large Plates” to satisfy your stage of hunger. Even their simple roasted chicken is so delicious.  Each meal comes with freshly broiled bread, hot out of the oven! As with every dinner, you must top it off with a “Sweet Ending”.  Try their award-winning “Candied Orange and Caramel Ice Cream Bombe”.

Happy Hour is a popular meeting spot at the Kensington Grill, which is 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily. Their bar is fully stocked for your enjoyment and socializing pleasure.  And the restaurant is open daily for dinner, Sunday through Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.  Fridays and Saturdays, until 10:00 p.m.

So isn’t it time to try something different?  Stop in at the Kensington Grill for a quick snack or a full sit down dinner.  Reservations are recommended, but not required.

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One of the most popular community events in all of San Diego is the “Little Italy FESTA”which celebrates Italian culture along India Street.  This year the festival will be held on Sunday, October 14, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  Over the past 18 years, the Little Italy FESTA has grown to become one of the largest Italian American festivals on the West Coast.  With over 120,000 attendees, this event is filled with modern Italian music, arts and crafts, music on three states, cooking demonstrations, cooking contests, kids fun zone, face painting and balloon art.  And let’s not forget a wide variety of Italian cuisines to tantalize all palates!

Overall, there are an abundance of delicious Italian Restaurants in Little Italy.  A few located on India Street alone are Anthology, Bencotto Italian Restaurant, Buon Appetito & Sogno DiVino, Caffe Italia, Enoteca Style, Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, Indigo Grill, Landini’s Pizzeria, Mona Lisa, Po Pazzo, Puerto La Boca, Vincenzo Ristorante Italiano and Zia’s Bistro.  There are so many more restaurants on the surrounding blocks.

The question most people ask is “How many restaurants are in Little Italy?” and the answer is, “Approximately 35-40 restaurants, along with lounges and entertainment venues!”  As you can see, there is definitely something for everyone in San Diego’s Downtown Little Italy!

AB  771 Common Interest Development (CID)

In late August, California Governor Jerry Brown signed AB 771 into law.  So what is AB 771?  AB771 is a bill that prevents home buyers in a common interest development (CID), such as a condominium or town home, from being charged excess document fees.  I’ve personally seen requests for fees as much as $500 for basic HOA and CCR documents.

Homeowner Associations (HOA’s) are required to provide specific documents to prospective purchasers of homes in a CID — a form of real estate ownership in which each homeowner has an exclusive interest in a unit and a shared interest in the common area property.  In addition to the standard residential property disclosures, purchasers of a unit within a CID must receive basic information about the structure, operation and management of the HOA that operates the CID.
Current law requires that this information come from the HOA and prohibits it from charging fees in excess of what is “reasonable,” not to exceed the actual cost of processing and producing these documents.  HOA’s generally have provided the documents for approximately $75 to $250.  Increasingly, HOA’s have been delegating document preparations to third party vendors or contractors who, under a 2007 court decision, are exempt from this fee limitation.  This delegation of responsibility by HOA’s sometimes resulted in home purchasers being forced to pay additional fees, as much as $1,000, for other documents which were “bundled” with the required documents.

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Mission Valley is easily accessible. Every major freeway leading into San Diego County passes by or through the valley. Thus, many attractions and suburbs are less than 30 minutes away.Mission Valley is known to all residents and visitors who travel around San Diego. It stretches as far west as Interstate 5 and as far east as Interstate 15. The exact boundary between Million Valley East and Mission Valley West is State Route 163.

While traveling through this area, it could sometimes be confusing where Interstate 805 crosses Mission Valley and connects with interstate 8. And then Interstate 15 and State Route 163 also cross Mission Valley and connect with Interstate 8. But once you’re familiar with all these interchanges, it’s second nature.

San Diego Trolley’s Green Line also runs through Mission Valley while the main hub for buses is located at the Fashion Valley Transit Center and Mall. There are other trolley stations in Mission Valley such as Qualcomm Stadium, Hazard Center, Mission Valley Center and many more.

San Diego River in Mission Valley

The beautiful San Diego River runs through Mission Valley. This 52-mile long river originates near Santa Ysabel in East San Diego County and runs down to the El Capitan Reservoir, and then through Lakeside, Santee, and Mission Valley. The River drains into the Pacific Ocean at Dog Beach in Ocean Beach.

Mission Valley Mall

There are two major malls located in Mission Valley. Both are popular and always very busy, especially around the holidays. The Westfield Mission Valley Mall is located at 1640 Camino Del Rio North in San Diego (Mission Valley). From book stores to Department stores to Target and Bed, Bath & Beyond and all kinds of specialty shops, dozens of restaurants, including a food court, this popular mall has an abundance of choices. They even have their own AMC Mission Valley 20-Screen Multiplex Theatre.

Fashion Valley Mall

Located in the heart of Mission Valley at 7007 Friars Rd., San Diego, there’s yet another shopping mall with over 200 stores. Fashion Valley is filled with class with such department stores as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Bloomindale’s. J.C. Penney and Macy’s are also located in this two-level, upscale shopping wonderland. Fashion Valley has a number of sit-down restaurants, such the extremely popular Cheesecake Factory, PF Changes and California Pizza Kitchen. Also located in this mall is an 18 Screen Multiplex Stadium Seating AMC Theatre.

Good restaurants, an abundance of stores, restaurants and specialty shops to choose from to meet all your needs, why go anywhere else but Mission Valley? Come for a day and you’ll stay for a week.

The 8th Annual Carlsbad Music Festival is taking place over the weekend of Friday to Sunday, September 23rd to 25th. This year’s event features different genres from pop to classical. The festival will kick off with the fun, free Village Music Walk on Friday evening and continues throughout the weekend with outdoor concerts at a variety of venues on Saturday and Sunday. All festivities are within short walking distance of the train, the beach and a variety of restaurants and hotels.

The Main Stage Concerts are being held at the Carlsbad Village Theatre located at 2822 State Street in Carlsbad. Tickets are $15 for general admission/$5.00 for students. You can also purchase tickets to all five concerts for $60.00. The ticketed concerts feature pianist Vicky Chow, vocalist Shara Worden, indie chamber pop band My Brightest Diamond, Brooklyn-based post-classical quintet Build, and the Festival’s Ensemble-in-Residence, the Calder Quartet. To purchase tickets to this musical event and to find out more details of the Carlsbad Music Festival, log on to www.carlsbadmusicfestival.org and have some fun!

Another “musical” thing to do in Carlsbad any time of the year is to visit theMuseum of Making Music located 5790 Armada Drive. You will feel as if you are time-traveling through the last 100 years as you learn about music making in America. At this museum you can take a leisurely stroll through their displays featuring music of different eras with many of them autographed by well-known musical talents. You will also see a collection of more than 450 musical instruments.

Besides the ever-popular LEGOLAND in Carlsbad, with all its attractions for both adults and children alike, you can’t drive on Interstate 5 without seeing the 50-acre rainbow of blooming Ranunculus flowers of Carlsbad’s Flower Field. The season for these flowers are short, March through May with the greatest display in early to mid-April. Every year it’s worth the wait for Spring!

Besides the allure of living near the beach, Carlsbad has a lot to offer with its upscale homes, picturesque golf courses, shopping centers, restaurants, antique shops, café’s, specialty shops and so much more.

Carlsbad – an ideal place to call home.

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There are performers to entertain all ages. The Golden Lion Chinese Acrobats provide world-class entertainment featuring the most talented acrobats, dancers, martial artists, and musicians from China.  You will be amazed at the spectacular variety of breathtaking acrobatics, trampoline artists and a very unusual musical group with a robotic flare.  There are various jaw-dropping performances along with beautiful native costumes. You also don’t want to miss the “Body-Bending” performers with their unbelievable skills.  You’ll have to see it to believe it.

Visit the Children’s Zoo’s Clark Theatre where you will see and hear Dr. Zoolittleshare fun Panda facts during his new “interactive” show for families.  As he explores Asia and brings his own special take on science, he’ll “transport” audiences to Asia to study the giant panda.  This is something you don’t want your family to miss.

And if you are a dance fanatic, then “Dancin’ through the Decades” on the Front Street Plaza is just what you’ve been looking for!After the hula hoop contest, stick around to watch the audience as they volunteer in this hilarious, athletic, and creative look at music and dance through the decades.  See if YOU can keep up!

So whether you want to get a taste of the Far East and the China Celebration, or you simply want to come to the Zoo to see the animals, now is the time!It’s an amazing San Diego summer, a perfect time to visit the world famous San Diego Zoo AND the San Diego Night Time Zoo.  Come on, make the trip, you’ll be glad you did!

Remember: The San Diego Nighttime Zoo Festivities are going on now until Labor Day, September 5th, 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.

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2011 Big Bay Boom Fireworks Show -
July 4, 2011 – The Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show is back for its eleventh year, promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay.

4th of July Celebration on the USS Midway -
July 4, 2011 – Enjoy family activities, simulator rides, entertainment, games, eating contests, food and fun! Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for museum member adults and $10 for youth.

Fourth of July Fun on San Diego Bay -
July 4, 2011 – The observation deck of the museum’s 1898 steam ferry Berkeley provides a spectacular view of the fireworks show over San Diego Bay. Fireworks viewing are included with museum admission. Watch fireworks from several ships as well as the new mooring platform. Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m.

Coronado Independence Day Celebration -
July 4, 2011 – Activities kick off with a 15k Run/Walk at dawn. The day includes a rough-water swim at North Beach, a two-hour parade along Orange Avenue, Art-in-the-Park, and concerts in Spreckels Park and at the Ferry Landing and culminates with fireworks over Glorietta Bay.

Red, White and BOOM! Rocks LEGOLAND -
July 4, 2011 – LEGOLAND® California kicks off summer with a star-spangled Fourth of July celebration, “Red, White and BOOM!” The awe-inspiring fireworks show begins at 8:30 pm and blends patriotic music with dazzling pyrotechnics.

Independence Day in Old Town San Diego -
July 4, 2011 – Enjoy an old fashioned 4th of July celebration with a parade, crafts and activities of early San Diego. Wagon rides, period games, music, food specials, pie eating contest and much more are included in this afternoon of family-fun.
From 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Lake Murray Fourth of July Music Fest and Fireworks -
July 4, 2011 – Every year this event attracts nearly 10,000 people with a celebration which includes bands playing from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  There’s no charge at the park which boasts a huge grass area and playground for the children. Bring your own food, tables and chairs and come join in the festivities.

Other San Diego Firework Displays on July 4th …

All displays start at 9:00 p.m. unless noted.

Eastlake – Olympic Training Center

Chula Vista Fireworks/Chula Vista Harbor Yacht
El Cajon Fireworks/Kennedy Park
Escondido Fireworks/Grape Day Park
Mira Mesa Fireworks/Mira Mesa Community Park
National City Fireworks/Kimball Park
Ocean Beach Fireworks/Ocean Beach Pier
Oceanside Fireworks/Pacific Street& Mission Avenue
Picnic Fireworks in La Jolla/La Jolla Shores & Kellogg Park
Poway Fireworks/Poway High School
Rancho Bernardo Fireworks/Bernardo Heights Middle School
Santee Fireworks/Town Center Community Park
Sea World San Diego/500 Sea World Drive, San Diego – 9:30 p.m.

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The San Diego County Fair runs from Friday, June 10th through Monday, July 4th, and closed on Mondays, except for July 4th.  That’s 22 days of fun for you to enjoy with your family and friends!

ADMISSION PRICES:

Adults: $13.00; Ages 62 and older: $7.00; Children 6-12: $7.00; Children 5 and younger get in Free!

If you are a serious Fair-Goer, then you might want to purchase the “Best Pass Ever” which gives you all 22 days of Fair Fun for just $22.00 total!

ENTERTAINMENT: This year’s Fair will continue its tradition of great nationally known entertainers.  It is a non-stop entertainment extravaganza and you’re bound to find something for the entire family to enjoy.  Most entertainment is free with your Fair admission.

ANIMALS: A fair without animals just wouldn’t be a fair, and the San Diego County Fair is no exception.  From farm animals to animal shows, this fair has it all.  There’s the Pig Pen, the Sheep and Goat Pasture, the Cattle Pasture and Poultry and Rabbits just to mention a few, along with lots of other animals/pets.  Come check out the ever-popular Junior Livestock Auction, where San Diego’s kids auction the animals they have hand-raised during the past year.

RIDES AND GAMES: It just wouldn’t be a County Fair without the rides and games.  The Fun Zone has 39 exciting rides, including the newest Roller Coaster, Windstorm, which reaches speeds up to 60 mph.   Rock-It is the newest thrill ride that takes you upside down at 80 feet in the air.  Don’t forget Kiddieland where they’ve added Daytona Truck along with 40 other rides.  There are also 40 different types of games of all skill levels in both locations.

FOOD & DRINK:  The food at the San Diego County Fair is one of the main reasons people visit each year.  Not only do they have the traditional “Fair Fare” but they offer some unique and different types of pallet-pleasing foods to try as well.  Your visit to the fair would not be complete without stopping by and trying one of the popular fried sensations at the Deep Fried Butter Stand (Formerly Heart Attack Café). Doesn’t “Deep-Fried Beer Battered Bacon” sound delicious?  Or how about their “Chocolate-Covered Corn Dog?”  Chicken Charlie’s offers their newest sensation:  “Deep-Fried Kool-Aid!”  Awesome!

No matter what your taste buds prefer and no matter what your excitement level is for rides and attractions, you certainly don’t want to miss this year’s San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

See you at the Fair!

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The Hillcrest neighborhood is bound by Bankers Hill and Balboa Park to the south, University Heights to the north and North Park to the east; there is a large ridge which overlooks San Diego Bay and borders the neighborhood to the west.

One of the attractions of Hillcrest is the Landmark 5-Screen Theatre located on the second floor of the Art Deco-influenced Village Hillcrest Shopping Center.  The shopping center is located at 3965 5th Avenue between University Avenue and Washington Street.  The Landmark Theatre is recognized as a leader in the industry for providing diverse and entertaining independent and foreign films. This complex, which is in the heart of San Diego’s Uptown District, is filled with many fine restaurants offering International cuisines.

A popular weekend attraction is Hillcrest’s Farmer’s Market, consistently voted the best of San Diego’s many Farmers Markets. This community gathering was created in 1997 by the Hillcrest Business Association and is open every Sunday, year round, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  The Farmer’s Market is located in the DMV parking lot on Lincoln Street between Cleveland and Normal.

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Three things that help you get financing for your dream home.

1. A Good Credit Score–Be sure to stay on top of your credit score.  Check your credit score at the 3 major credit bureaus.  They are Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.  Shoot for the 700′s, you will get a better interest rate.

2. Job–Try not to change jobs every other Friday.  This is the biggest clue to the lenders that you will be able to make your payments.

3. Down payment–Save, save and save some more.  Typically a down payment is 10 or 20 percent.  If you use a VA loan, you may qualify for a no money down loan.  An FHA down payment is 3 ½ percent – again you need to qualify.

How to Get the House you Want

1. Work with a Full time experienced Realtor–This will be the most important decision you make when buying a home.  A good Realtor can find you your dream home and save you thousands of dollars on it.

2. Get Pre-Approved–Work with a great lender to get past the “pre-qualification” process and actually get you “pre- approved.”

3. Organize your documents to prove your employment and income–his will include pay stubs, W2′s, tax returns, and 401k information.  Long gone are the days when you could just “state” your income.

Terms you need to Know

1. Escrow–This is the process that occurs when you purchase a house.  The Escrow Co. acts as a neutral 3rd party to make sure the buyer and seller follow the terms of the agreed upon purchase agreement.

2. APR–Annual Percentage Rate. This is the “true cost” of the loan shown as a yearly rate.

3. Equity–This is calculated by subtracting the amount still owed on the mortgage loan or loans from the home’s fair-market value.

4. FHA Loan–The Federal Housing Administration assists home buyers who normally would not qualify for conventional financing.

5. Fixed Rate Mortgage–This is a type of loan that has an interest rate that does not change.

6. PMI–Private Mortgage Insurance – bought by a buyer to protect the lender in case of default.  It’s required if you don’t have a 20 percent down payment.

7. Points–1 point equals 1 percent.  Points are usually charged by the lender for doing the loan.

8. PITI–Principle, Interest, Taxes and Insurance.

9. Closing Costs–These are fees the lender charges and they will make up about 2-4 percent of the home purchase price.

When I meet with my clients for the first time, I go over the terms and definitions and what they can expect throughout the buying process.

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Chula Vista, California is 100 years old this year!  The city has grown over the past 100 years from being known as the “Lemon Capital of the World,” to the 2nd largest city in San Diego County and the 7th fastest growing city in the nation!

City-wide events sponsored by community businesses, educational groups, and non-profit organizations have been planned for throughout the year.  These events have been organized by and for the community to commemorate the city’s people and history.

Some of the many planned events include:

March 7-8 – The Centennial Celebration Concert: 10 Decades of Memories, Moments and Milestones at the new Chula Vista High Schools performing arts center.  This event was planned and will be performed entirely by local talent and will perform songs from the city’s beginning in 1911 through today.

April 10 – Chula Vista Centennial Day at the Padres. Chula Vista residents receive discounted pricing when tickets are purchased at the official Chula Vista Centennial website www.chulavista100.com thru March 1.

April 30 – Historic Home Tour

May 21 – Chula Vista Community Fun Run

September 24-25 – Harbor Days

October 16 – Founder’s Day Festival

Also participate in the Centennial Year of Service.   Residents of Chula Vista, California homes are asked to find ways to serve their neighbors and community throughout 2011.

To get the latest centennial news and calendar of events, people are encouraged to visit the official Chula Vista Centennial website at www.chulavista100.com.  The website offers access to the Centennial Facebook page, news feeds and an online store where a centennial book is now available for advanced purchase.

The four city parks in Eastlake are the 13-acre Chula Vista Community Park, Sunset View Park, the 24-acre Salt Creek Park, and 12-acre Mountain Hawk Park.   All of the parks have great mountain views and provide plenty of room for the family to run freely without feeling too cramped.  These parks are a great place to hold kids birthday parties, play tag with kids, frisbee, catch with both the football and baseball or just to picnic.

Mountain Hawk Park with its backdrop of stunning mountains overlooks the beautiful Lower Otay Lake Reservoir.  If you haven’t seen or been to the lake, it is very large with great fishing year around.  Within the park’s boundaries are an amphitheater, tot lot, play fountain, three picnic shelters and two multi-use sports fields.   Salt Creek Park offers sport fields, two playgrounds, tennis courts, a skate park (hard to find unless you go to the boys and girls club) and soccer rink.  Sunset View Park has a roller hockey rink, open sports fields, covered picnic area, fun-filled playground and a measured ½ mile walking/jogging track.  The Chula Vista Community Park in Eastlake offers a free public concert series during the summer months, open sports-fields, tennis courts, baseball fields and a tot lot and playground.

Each of Eastlake’s neighborhoods, Hills, Shores, Greens, Trails, Vistas,  The Woods and Eastlake Trails North has a private park for their own use.  Residents can enjoy the amenities at these parks such as swimming pools, volleyball courts, barbecues, picnic areas, small lakes, a fishing pond, and open spaces year-round.

Located close by all these wonderful parks are shopping centers and restaurants just in case you run out of food.

•    Proposition 60 allows replacement of a primary residence with a new home of equal or lesser value along with the transfer of the Prop 13 assessed value from the old home to the new home.

•    Proposition 90 allows counties to elect to accept transfers of Prop 13 values for moves from other counties when a primary residence is replaced with a less expensive home.

As of December 28, 2010, there are eight counties which participate and accept Prop 90. They are Alameda, El Dorado, Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Mateo, Santa Clara and Ventura.

The following are eligibility guidelines for the Proposition 60/90 “Senior Exclusion”:

•    Either the seller, or a spouse residing with the seller, must be at least 55 years of age when the original property is transferred.

•    The filing is a one-time-only opportunity.  Prop 60/90 cannot be granted if the claimant or spouse of the claimant has already been granted this relief in the past.

•    The replacement home must be of equal or lesser “current market value” than the original property.

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

•    An application must be filed by the owner within the three years following the purchase date, or completion date of new construction, of the sale of the original property.

•    Prop 60/90 relief includes, but is not limited to: single family residences, condos, units in planned unit developments, cooperative housing, corporation units or lots, community apartment units, mobile homes subject to local real property tax, and owners’ living premises which are a portion of a larger structure.

You, the taxpayer, are not eligible for this relief until you actually own AND occupy the replacement property as your principle residence.

Please feel free to call/email me with any questions you may have.

Located in the eastern portion of Chula Vista, just north of Eastlake and Rolling Hills Ranch, San Miguel Ranch real estate offers fresh, new communities with several new neighborhoods from which to choose.  Currently there are four new neighborhoods open for sale in San Miguel Ranch. A total of 1,394 homes, ranging from multi-family homes up to large estate homes, will be built in San Miguel Ranch. The first builders to introduce homes at San Miguel Ranch include Buie Communities, Continental Homes, Shea Homes and Trimark Pacific.  San Miguel Ranch real estate is where you go to buy new homes in Chula Vista.

Situated on one of the area’s highest elevations, San Miguel Ranch real estate features spectacular scenic views of the surrounding foothills, lakes, San Diego Bay, the Pacific Ocean and the downtown skyline.  Home prices range from the mid $300,000s to the mid $700,000s.

San Miguel Ranch’s highly diversified topography makes for an attractive community where the emphasis has been on preserving natural landmark ridgelines and maintaining habitats for native plants and animals. By creating an integral trail system with over six miles of trails, residents will be able to explore the area, enjoying the benefits of a pedestrian-friendly community. The highlights of San Miguel Ranch’s plan are over 2,000 acres of permanent open space; 26 acres devoted to neighborhood and community parks; a pedestrian-friendly interconnecting trail system featuring equestrian, bike, walking and hiking trails; and a “California Ranch” landscape plan that employs the use of rural, informal elements incorporating natural materials to tie into the existing and historical nature of the property.

If you are an interested buyer, looking anywhere in Chula Vista, CA, San Miguel Ranch real estate is a “must” destination.

Be sure to contact me before visiting this great community.  I can help you negotiate the best possible price, reduced closing costs and upgrades throughout the home.

Chula Vista, which in Spanish roughly translates to “beautiful view,” is known for its scenic location between the San Diego Bay and coastal mountain foothills.  Hence, if you’re looking for a property with views in Chula Vista, California, you’re looking in the right place.

Many of the properties in Chula Vista’s premier neighborhoods provide breathtaking views straight from the front door step.  Many come to Chula Vista, California for the great weather, the gorgeous views, and the fabulous city living. Chula Vista is chocked full of attractive neighborhoods with several for sale properties with a view such as: Eastlake, Otay Ranch and Rancho del Rey. These neighborhoods provide their residents and soon to be residents a selection of elegant masterfully planned properties with gorgeous views to choose from right in the heart of Chula Vista, California.

Eastlake neighborhoods have several hidden country properties for sale with sprawling green hillside and water views.  Four neighborhoods at Montecito Ridge, – Otay Ranch, are for people looking for single-family properties with a view in Chula, Vista.  Otay Ranch offers an enclave of homes overlooking Wolf Canyon and surrounding Mulberry Park, a private homeowner’s park.  Homes in Montecito Ridge have taken on the graceful and enduring architectural style of Santa Barbara.  Rancho del Rey, Chula Vista properties for sale with a view shine magnificently and are ready to be looked at by their soon to be owners!

The economy in this area is booming, and there are many job opportunities available to residents and newcomers alike.  Chula Vista offers a gorgeous city and beautiful neighborhoods to residents.  Come see the many wonderful properties for sale with a view in Chula Vista, just waiting for you to call one home!

Whether you are buying or selling a home, the single-family homes, waterfront homes, condos and townhouses in Chula Vista are of excellent value.  So don’t waste another minute and come check out all the properties with views in Chula Vista, CA.

There are many homes currently for sale in the Chula Vista subdivision of Rancho Del Rey.  Prices for detached single-family homes for sale in Rancho Del Rey start in from the high $300,000s and go up from there depending on how much “home” you’re looking for.  As you investigate this diverse Chula Vista community and the homes for sale in Rancho Del Rey, you’re likely to find many appealing choices.

If you’re an entertainer at heart, you must take a look at the spacious floor plans, beautiful views and extra large yards.  Many of the homes for sale in Rancho Del Rey are in gated communities that provide lavish amenities such as tennis courts, sparkling Olympic size swimming pools, well manicured grounds and are only minutes away from a shopaholics dream.  The types of homes for sale in Rancho Del Rey vary in age.  Some of the homes for sale in Rancho Del Rey were built in the late 1970s but many of them are as new as 2008.  If you’re a growing family and the quality of the neighborhood schools are a concern, Rancho Del Rey Middle School has ranked 9 out of 10 on GreatSchools.org.

The community of Rancho Del Ray is only minutes from Downtown San Diego and is surrounded by parks, walking trails, biking trials, schools and shopping.  It is a picture perfect place to raise a family but still have an element of city living.  Enjoy the breath taking views but never feel like you’re too far out in the country!

Lastly, when thinking about making an investment like this, be sure to find a knowledgeable real-estate agent to show you all of the gorgeous homes for sale in Rancho Del Rey!  You know who that is—–ME!

One of the best area’s is Chula Vista, CA.

There are affordable five bedroom homes for sale in Chula Vista, CA.  Chula Vista offers, privacy and space without being to far away from downtown San Diego. There are three, four, and five bedroom homes for sale in Chula Vista, CA, ranging from 2,687 to 3,341 square feet. These single-family five bedroom Chula Vista homes for sale give you a choice of one-story and two-story floor plans, each in Spanish Colonial, Santa Barbara or Tuscan elevation styles. Many of these master planned communities offer four, five and even up to six bedroom homes for sale at great prices.

These homes come with 3 and 4 bathrooms, and up to 3 car garages. The five bedroom homes for sale in Chula Vista, CA are reasonably priced for all types of buyers. Inside and out of these gorgeous five bedroom homes for sale in Chula Vista, you’ll discover a combination of features that you won’t find in most new homes today. Many of these homes are nestled in beautifully master planned gated communities that provide an abundance of special amenities that you will love having at your disposal. There are walking and bike riding trails, parks, recreational centers, lakes, shopping and an abundance of restaurants close by.

So hurry and buy a 5 bedroom home in Chula Vista before it’s too late!

On October 13,, 2010 I spent about 8 hrs. visiting all the new home communities in the Chula Vista area. This new home community was incredible.

Palma at Rolling Hills Ranch is a new home community located in the hills of Rolling Hills Ranch. Rolling Hills Ranch is located in the eastern portion of Chula Vista just north of the Eastlake area. This is a master planned community designed for all types of families. It is surrounded by parks, schools, trails, rolling hills, community centers and shopping.

The Shops at San Miguel Ranch include Albertsons, Beasly Cleaners, Brueggers Bagels, Choice Vision, Fogarp’s Pizzaria, First Bank, Great Steak and Potato Co., Kona Pacific Café, Kyoto Sushi, Los Primos, Postnet, Prestige Nails, Pride Martial Arts, State Farm, USA Credit Union, Villa Capri and Verizon.

One of the homes that caught my eye was 3270 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a 3 car garage. It was loaded with upgrades for only $569,000. This home comes with distinctive exteriors, attractive interiors, elegant master suites, gourmet kitchens, energy efficient items and a design center to help you with your decorating.

The “phasing” or “building out” plan for Palma is as follows. They currently have 4 homes available, 2 will be ready in November, 2 in December, 8 in February thru April, 7 in May thru June, 5 in June until they sell out. Prices range from $569,000 to $681,000. Sq. ft. ranges from 2500-3900.

As a buyer you can negotiate thousands of dollars in upgrades.

Be sure to contact me before going to any new home community. You will definitely need an experienced Realtor to help negotiate the price, closing costs, upgrades and close of escrow date. I come at no cost to you as a buyer and can save you a ton of money!

So why would a bank agree to a short sale? It’s simple, to avoid foreclosure.

There is nothing “short” about a Short Sale. By now you would think the banks were on top of their Short Sale inventory and have great systems in place to expedite the sale. They have only been doing it for about 5 years now. In fact, Short Sales can take anywhere from 2-10 months to complete and in fact, there is really no guarantee the home will actually sell. In my experience, the Short Sale process has actually gotten worse for the buyer and seller.

A buyer can spend $400 on an appraisal, $300 on a home inspection and there is no guarantee the house will actually sell. As a buyer, it’s completely out of your control. The sale of the house is completely up to the bank and the listing agent. If they are not working together and on the same page, the home will not sell and will end up another foreclosure.

Why do so many buyers look to buy Short Sales? Buyers think they are getting a good deal when it comes to buying a Short Sale, and in fact in most cases they are not at all. If you are a buyer and you see a great house under market value beware, the bank can actually raise the price because the appraisal that will be done will most likely come in higher than the asking price. Then the bank will instruct the seller to raise the price and counter your current offer price. There goes your smokin’ deal!

The only real chance you have of actually buying a Short Sale is the following.
1. Make sure your agent is really experienced in this process (Dale Downing).
2. The home mortgage is with 1 lender, not 2 different lenders.
3. Make sure you pick a house that has been through the process before (fell out of escrow).
4. Avoid looking at homes where the Short Sale is a “secret.”

So what am I trying to say? It’s simple. If you are a serious buyer looking to buy in the next 3-6 months, stay away from Short Sales and only look at Traditional Sales and Foreclosures.

Here is an example of a typical rule within the CC&R’s. If, for example, the home has a community pool, certain rules may apply. Pool use may be limited to the occupants of the home, or it may be allowable to bring guests to use the pool if prior notice is given.

CC&R’s may also set forth restrictions on home appearance. In some communities, emphasis is placed on architectural design. Some communities pride themselves on structural appearance that does not detract from the environment in which the homes are placed. Homes that are supposed to appear natural cannot be painted in colors that are inconsistent with the homeowners’ association’s aesthetics.

Materials used for building or remodeling may likewise be dictated by CC&Rs. Homeowners’ associations may restrict building on to a house, or limit house additions to specific sizes. This is an additional irritation for some homeowners, because any rebuilding project must also conform to city ordinances. New homeowners who are considering expanding their families and hoping to build additions on a relatively small house may find themselves bound not to do so by CC&R’s.

Renters who live in homes that have CC&R’s should be apprised of limitations before entering into a contract with a homeowner. CC&R’s may limit pets to specific breeds and types, or disallow them completely. They may also stress certain maintenance of the property; for instance, all windows may have to be covered with specific types of well-cleaned blinds or shades. Cars owned by the renter must be properly registered and can be towed if registration is not current.

Some agreement between the renter and homeowner may be reached on which aspects of maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner, and which is the responsibility of the renter.
Many homeowners like CC&R’s because they provide a level of predictability and an expectation of behavior that can be enforced if necessary.

The ultimate goal of the HOA and CC&R’s is to have a community that is safe and desired by all.

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A few days after the acceptance, you will receive escrow instructions, which are going to ask you one of these questions; 1) how you want to hold title, 2) how you want to take title to your new home, or 3) how title will be vested. Don’t worry—they all mean the same thing. All they are asking is when the seller deeds the property over to you, how you want your names to appear in the public records and for legal purposes.
This determination will be based on a few factors. Please consider the following, especially if there are multiple parties buying property together. Take the time to understand how each will affect you in the areas of your ability to transfer title or disposition of property in the event of a divorce or death or exposure to creditor claims. In addition, the manner in which you hold title may also affect property taxes, income taxes, inheritance and gift taxes as well as probate issues upon death.

If you are purchasing real estate as an individual, there are a few different forms of ownership. Be sure to consult with your attorney before vesting takes place.

Single Woman or Man — Property held by a single person who is not legally married.

Married Sole and Separate — Property acquired by a husband or wife wanting to hold title solely. Often times the spouse of the title holder will be required to relinquish rights to the property by executing a Quitclaim deed. Before you hold title in this fashion please consult your attorney.

Domestic Partner and His/Her Sole and Separate Property – For a Domestic Partner to hold property solely it is the same as for a Married Sole and Separate. Domestic Partner may also be required to relinquish property rights.
Joint Tenants (most popular among married couples) — Property acquired by two or more people who may or may not be married. Each will have equal interest in the property. Upon death the other has the right of survivorship and the property will automatically convey to the surviving joint tenant.

Tenants In Common — This form of ownership by two or more people gives the ability to determine fractional ownership. One person may have one quarter ownership, the other may have three quarters ownership. Any interest held as tenants in common may be willed to heirs or sold.

Community Property — Property held by husband and wife during their marriage in which they plan to own together. Either party may will his/her portion of the community property. In California, real estate conveyed to a married woman or man is considered to be community property unless otherwise indicated.

Community Property with Right of Survivorship — Property held by a husband and wife during their marriage in which they plan to own together. The difference in holding title in this manner is that upon death, the decedents interest ends and the surviving spouse owns the property by right of survivorship.

Title may also be held in the name of a trust, corporation, partnership or LLC. Check with your lender prior to making a determination on one of these ways to ensure they will allow you to hold title in any of these manners.

How you hold title may be based on many factors. You will want to examine all tax consequences, survivor benefits and family circumstances prior to making this decision. Each state may have different laws so do your research to be sure how the laws are applicable to your situation.

For all real estate related information, call/email Dale F. Downing.
619-993-0629
Dale@HouseCallRealty.com

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