Mortgage Impound Accounts - Q&A

Mortgage Impound Accounts - Q&A

I recently got a question from my buyers Alison & Matt who are the process of getting their first home in Atascadero.  She asked me:

Hi Traci!!  I had a quick question for you.  So I've been talking to a few people and we are questioning whether we really want to build our property taxes into our monthly mortgage payment.  I'm wondering if it's better for us to just budget that amount and move it into our savings (which earns interest) and just deal with paying it twice a year (I don't remember what it was).  I guess I would be more concerned about paying it if we didn't have a lot in savings.  My thought's are that it would make our monthly payment a lot more manageable and we could earn a little interest on the money as opposed to paying it with our mortgage. What do you think?    - Thanks!  Alison

My advice to Alison is if your lender is giving you the option to add it to your mortgage payment or not, do what you feel most comfortable doing. Some lenders don't always give you this option especially if you are putting  less than 20% as your down payment.  Adding your property taxes to your mortgage payment is called a Mortgage Impound Account.

Alison is right, she can save the money and build a small amount of interest on the money before she makes her payment. That interest is taxable money, so some may argue it's not worth the hassle of saving in a separate account accruing interest because you're taxed on it anyways.

By having an impound account many people enjoy the peace of mind knowing there is one less bill to worry about and that it's paid automatically. That's the no hassle situation.

Choose what makes the most sense for your situation, is my advice to Alison and to you.

Let me know if you have any questions about anything real estate related. I'm here to help!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

The Future Of San Luis Obispo Housing

The Future Of San Luis Obispo Housing

There will be a Central Coast housing Market Shift in the next coming 20 years. As baby boomers and their echo boomer children become homeowners, they will significantly effect the housing market. Echo Boomer children will make up approximately 65 million people born between 1981-1995. This will create a demographic challenge and opportunity.

The aging baby boomer population will swell the nation's senior population by 30 Million over the next 20 years. Typically people over the age of 65 are releasing more housing than they are absorbing, this demographic shift will help to increase the supply of housing. Currently we have a lack of affordable housing available for them to buy. With the economic downturn home construction was halted for over 7 years, creating a deficit in housing currently. With interest rates at record lows and banks wanting to lend money, buyers are competing for purchases on available homes on the market.

Generation Y, the Millennial Generation, Generation Next, Millennials, Net Generation or Echo Boomers. Whatever you want to call the world’s largest collection of twenty and thirty-somethings, they are coming to a town near you.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

How Much Home Can I Afford?... So Play House

How Much Home Can I Afford?... Play House

I am a very big fan of Money Queen Suze Orman. On one of her recent shows, she had a wonderful idea about figuring out how much home can a new buyer afford. Today I'm going to give you the tools to figure that out by "Playing House."

Step #1
* Choose how much home you want to buy.
* Only start this process if you have 20% down on this home of your choice.
* Go online and use a mortgage calculator and online resources to figure out the following monthly expenses:
       1. 30-year fixed rate monthly mortgage payment
       2. Monthly Property taxes
       3. Monthly Association Fees, (If it's a Condo, Mobile Home or PUD)
       4. Monthly Home Owners Insurance
       5. Monthly Home Maintenance (Yard, Periodic Painting, Termite Repairs, Roof, etc.)
*Total up all the costs for items 1-5, under step #1, and this will give you the total monthly cost of owning the home.

Step #2
* Use your total at the end of Step #1 and subtract it from the monthly rent you currently pay. This will give you the additional amount you currently would have to pay for a home of this price.

Step #3
* Start saving the additional amount you figured out at in Step #2 for 6 months.
* This will help you see what it feels like to own your own home.
* If this amount is too difficult, then you are purchasing too much house.
* If it's easy, you now have 6 months of saving to use towards your closing costs and down payment and you should call your favorite realtor, me, to begin your home search.

I hope this was helpful! This will also help you see if renting is comparable to the monthly cost of buying a home in this current market. Please comment below to give me feedback on this blog post.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Refinancing to a Shorter Loan Time Frame

Refinancing to a Shorter Loan Time Frame

Changing the length of your mortgage time frame can save you big money. Interests rates are still very low and if you haven't reaped the benefits of Refinancing your home to a 3.5-4.5% interest rate, Do it! Many people refinance their home with another 30 year loan. But while you are talking to your lender, see if choosing a shorter time frame on your loan may save you money and possibly keep your payments close to where they are now.

 
I know you like examples like I do and I think this paints a vivid picture:
A current loan on your home of:
$400K at 5.75% interest for 30 years is $2,334.29 monthly

Refinancing the same amount for a lower interest rate and shorter terms looks like this:
$400K at 3.75% interest for 20 years is $2,371.55 monthly.

By adjusting the interest rate and the length of your mortgage you are paying almost exactly the same amount monthly, but the 10 years you took off the loan time frame has saved you over $271,172.13 in interest payments. $ 97,713.67 was saved in interest by doing a 20 year loan and $173,458.46 was saved by refinancing to a lower interest rate.  Isn't that Incredible!

Use my mortgage calculator to see what your monthly payment could be with a shorter time frame. Talk to your lender today to see if you qualify to do a refinance and if you can lower your length of the loan. Contact me if you need a lender referral. You will save yourself Mucho Dinero!

Remember, I'm always available for any of your referrals. Contact me today!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Own a Home Close to Work and Save Money

What is the financial impact of living outside the city where you work?

A gallon of gas is currently $3.75 a gallon. A person that lives in Paso Robles and works in San Luis Obsipo uses up approximately 2.5 gallons of gas to go to work and return home on a daily basis. Based on only 20 days of work a month, that’s about 50 gallons of gas a month, or $187.50. This doesn’t include wear & tear, maintenance and automotive repairs costs. The cost for only gas for the year would be $2,250. Based on California's current Milage Reimbursement Rate of .55 per mile,  your monthly expense to commute an average of 35 miles to work would be $770 and your annual expense would be $9,240!

If you lived in the same city you worked you would save thousands of dollars a year in gas, wear & tear, maintenance and car repairs.

If the $2,250 was applied to your mortgage payment every year instead of towards gas, what would be the impact?  Based on a mortgage of $450,000 with a 3.75% interest rate for 30 years, you would be able to reduce your final payoff date to 26 years and 2 months and save $43,055.10 in Interest on the loan because it was paid off faster.

We all can’t live where we work, but if you are looking to shorten your commute, save time and money, give me a call to begin your search. I'm here to help.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Refinancing Your San Luis Obispo Home Today Could Mean BIG Savings

Refinancing Your San Luis Obispo Home Today Could Mean BIG Savings

I'm sure you've heard interest rates are low and dropping. But what does that mean to you? Why should you care? By doing a quick mortgage calculation to see what your savings could be, it could mean extra money monthly for you and your family. I recently had my home refinanced (a Refi) and I'd like to to fill you in on the financial benefits.

We live in San Luis and our mortgage loan wasn't bad, 5.375%, but the interest rates that are currently available are like borrowing free money. There are rates in the low 3%'s that could save us hundreds of dollars a month. Here's a simple example to show you how a small drop in two percent of our mortgage interest saved us a ton of money.

On our mortgage loan of $400,000 for 30 years at 5.375% our monthly mortgage, not including our Property taxes, was $2,239.88. The loan for the same amount at an interest rate of 3.375% our monthly mortgage is now $1,768.38. The 2% difference in the interest rate is saving us monthly $471.50.  That is a large amount of savings a month!

A good rule of thumb is if your current interest rate on your home is more than 1% higher than the current rates, it's financially worth it to Refi your home. You have a loan for 4.25% and rates are currently at 3.25%, call your broker. Many brokers can also give you estimates on what your monthly savings would be and what the cost is to Refi. On our Refi the cost to do it was added into the mortgage loan so we had no out of pocket expenses. A huge plus. Call your mortgage broker today to see if you can save money on your interest rate. You will be so glad you did.

If you are looking for a great Mortgage Broker to help you with your Refi, please email me for a referral in your area. I'm here to help!

Click here to access a link to a Mortgage Loan Calculator to see how much you can save! You're Welcome...

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

San Luis Obispo Real Estate Information

San Luis Obispo Real Estate Information

I have a great way to send you info for you to view at your convenience.
If anyone is interested in some free and helpful "around the house" tips,  San Luis County real estate scoops and other central coast fun, please joining my newsletter! My goal is to provide subscribers with useful and powerful tips anyone can benefit from. Click here to Subscribe to it today!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Sell Your San Luis Obispo Home in Today's Market!

Sell Your San Luis Obispo Home in Today's Market!

Well, I am truly asking EVERYONE if they know of anyone looking to sell because we are literally running out of available homes to show buyers in the San Luis Obispo area.

Buyers, more than ever are clamoring and making multiple offers on great San Luis Obispo County homes. If you have been thinking about selling your home, now is a great time to sell and possibly upgrade into that home of your dreams. Here's a list of the Top-5 Reasons to put your home on the market.

1.  Be a Move up Seller...
If you want a larger or smaller home, you can sell and purchase the home of your dreams at a discount. If you move into a more desirable home now at the beginning of the upswing of the housing market, you will be in a position to gain larger equity as prices eventually appreciate.

2.  Inventory is at a 20 year LOW & demand is HIGH. It’s a sellers market... 
We have over 30% LESS homes available for purchase from this time last year. Buyer interest is high for any home put on the market. Just over 40% of listings in the MLS are currently UNDER CONTRACT and in escrow. Sell your home quickly and potentially receive multiple offers. Potentially putting more cash in your pocket.

3.  Interest Rates are still under 4% - Buyers are out shopping...
With low inventory and many buyers wanting to purchase, renters are even looking to purchase their first home with rents being comparable to monthly mortgages. This creates a larger pool of buyers available to buy. This is also what is creating multiple offer situations fro most homes on the market today.

4.  Distressed Property competition is lower than ever...
Bank owned property and Short Sale homes aren't a thing of the past yet, but their numbers have diminished significantly. Regular sale properties can now sell in a market where the crappiest bank owned home is not a comparable price point for their beautiful home. The diminishing distressed properties also allow home prices to rise with buyer demand, giving way to higher purchase prices.

5.  Selling your home in this market is perfect timing...
If you are considering selling, do not allow naysayers or negative media opinion shape your view of the housing market. As a realtor in the daily housing trenches, I see San Luis Obispo moving into a strong recovery and with a great future ahead. Take this opportunity while everyone else is listening to the negativity to be ahead of the pack. Timing couldn't be more perfect to pull the trigger.

I hope knowing this has been helpful. If you are want to sell your home, an opportunity is knocking to get top dollar for your property. Call me today to learn more.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Listing Agent for San Luis Obispo Property

Listing Agent for San Luis Obispo Property


There's no better time to sell your home on the Central Coast!  Are you thinking about selling? I know I can get you the very best price for your home.

I have the privilege of working with great sellers in San Luis Obispo County. They are all experiencing the benefit of selling their home in this market. The buyers looking to buy your home are looking for great homes in this amazing time of extremely low interest rates. Many buyers have waited to purchase till now. With rates being low, buyers can afford more home for their dollar, making it the best time for them to buy.

What's the benefit for you as a seller in this market? You get the benefit of multiple offers, a large pool of buyers looking and bidding on your home. The low inventory of today's market gives the seller the advantage to pick and choose the highest and best offer on their property. This can produce above asking price offers and a bidding war to get your home.

When you are contemplating putting your home up for sale, call or email me today to begin the process. I will get you to your goals of selling your home.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Looking for a San Luis Obispo Sellers Agent?

Looking for a San Luis Obispo Sellers Agent? ... Well look no further!
I look forward to meeting you and exceeding your expectations in selling your home.

Property in San Luis Obispo County is always desirable. If you are thinking about selling your home I know how to sell your home quickly and for top dollar. Contact me to learn more.

Today savvy buyers are searching the internet looking for great homes to buy. Inventory is low for our Summer Season but there is a flurry of buyer activity looking to buy your home. Now is a great time to put it on the market. Sellers are seeing multiple offers on their homes with typically the home selling for above the asking price. Our distressed property inventory is slowing down and buyers have less homes to choose from, creating this frenzy of activity.

Weather you are looking to down size your home or looking to expand your square footage, I know how to sell your home to get you to your goals. Give me a call or email me today to learn more. Visit my website and use my resource tools.

Again... I look forward to meeting you and exceeding your expectations in selling your home.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

San Luis Obispo is the friendliest place to buy a home?

San Luis Obispo is the friendliest place to buy a home?

 

Thanks to a Nationwide vote for the Friendliest City in North America by Rand McNally... San Luis Obispo was voted as the Friendliest!

The San Luis Obispo Chamber greeted the team coming to our friendly town. My wonderful husband, Rich Ferguson, was one of the first people to greet them.

As most of you know, last September San Luis Obispo was voted The Happiest Place In America. Our city is growing in popularity since this award and we are continuing to be a thriving city.

Homes in SLO County are continuing to sell at quick rate and inventory of homes is the lowest it has been in years. Currently our inventory is 30% below last years average, making this Summer a sellers market for some areas in our County. Buyers continue to move here and buy investment property here. If you are in the market to buy or sell your home, now is a great time to give it a shot!

Congratulations San Luis Obispo!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Serra Meadows is getting built!

Serra Meadows is getting built!

This Blog is older and doesn't reflect the newest floor plans, elevations, pricing and schedules for the Serra Meadows development. Please view blog posts from November 2012 on for the accurate information.

 I drove past the exciting Serra Meadows Development going up in San Luis Obispo, Ca. recently and this is what I found...

The project going up by Camarillo developers MD2 has started the construction of four homes on the property. There are two single story homes and two 2-story homes currently underway. The home on the far left has a detached garage behind it with a studio rental unit above it.

Our very own local RRM Design Group were the Architects who won the bid for the project. As this development begins to become part of the San Luis Obispo landscape and neighborhood, I will be your Central Coast Realtor giving you the latest information on every step.

If you are curious about the waiting list and want to get your hands on one of the lots and homes in this development, call me to discuss the process. I'm here to help.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

My Best Rich Ferguson Story

My Best Rich Ferguson Story

The first time I met my husband was at a Game Night that my roommate Chelsea and I attended. Chelsea met Rich at a entrepreneurs meet-n-greet a couple of weeks before. They struck up a conversation about each of them having frequent Game Nights at their houses. Chelsea and our girlfriends frequently held Game Nights at our house and it' turns out so did Rich. Rich and her talked about combining the two game nights together, boys and girls, at his place.

On the day of the Game Night I was having the worst possible day. I had everything wrong happening at the time and I did not want to go this party at Rich's. I told Chelsea to go without me and have a good time. She insisted and luckily, I went. I went with no intention of meeting anyone significant or cute. As part of my pity party on that day I decided to wear all back, no makeup and put my hair back in a pony tail. I told myself I was not going to have fun!

We arrive at the front door to Rich's place and you can hear all the guys talking in the house. I knock on the door and hear in a faint voice..." Come Iiiinnnn!.  I open the front door into the entry way to see a person falling down a flight of stairs with their body coming barreling at me. In that split second I wasn't thinking about not having a good time, I was in a panic to figure out how I am going to help this poor person after they hit the bottom of the stairs. I jump out of the way to let the body pass by me. Once it hit the cold tile floor it jumped up and I saw it was a man, completely fine. He popped up off the ground and said..." Hi!  I'm Rich!

I remember this moment so vividly, because I forgot I was having a bad day, I forgot about my pity party. All I was thinking was who is this wonderful person and what a sexy entrance that was. It was really dangerous and super Hot!!!

My husbands martial arts falling techniques come in handy to freak out any suspecting visitor then and now. So beware if you are coming to our house. :)
Thank you honey for making our life always spontaneous, fun, Hot and exciting. You are my best friend and I love you to pieces!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

San Luis Obispo Home Market Analysis... What's my home worth?

San Luis Obispo Home Market Analysis... What's my home worth?

The housing prices have begun to eek up as low inventory and eager buyers flood the market looking to buy in these times of low interest rates. With this great opportunity to get top dollar for your home, how do you really know what your home is worth?

The easiest way to get a price range is to call your local San Luis Obsipo realtor (Traci Ferguson) and ask for a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA). Many people don't know that I have had education in doing market analysis for homes, much like an appraiser would do, for homes in the San Luis area. You could get a formal appraisal done for $400-600 dollars, but your results will be very close to what I can get for you in my research, for free.

What I do is search for sold homes that are similar to your home that have sold in and around your area with similar amenities, condition and qualities. These comparable homes are analyzed and only the homes that fit as a close match will be used to help me give you a range of where to price your home to get the best possible sales price.

With that information you can decide if now is the best time to put your home on the market. It's a wonderful tool to keep you informed and educated on the biggest investment you make in your life... your home!

Get educated with me and I will get you top dollar!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

San Luis Obispo Housing Market Is On Fire

San Luis Obispo Housing Market Is On Fire!

If you are even thinking about selling your home, NOW is a phenomenal time to do that. 
Let me tell you why...


Recently I have been working with buyers in my business and the lack of homes available for home buyers to buy have been very low. Historically during the Spring/ Summer months San Luis Obispo Real Estate market has the majority of available listings for sale. We also see an increase in buyers during this time as the weather gets better and buyers begin to purchase.

Well...we have yet to see this increase of homes on the market. This lack of homes available to buy has created bidding wars on homes that are on the market. I recently have worked with 2 buyers who wanted to make offers on homes, that just came available to buy, where we were not the first offer but the 11th or the 9th offer on the property. The offers were not only close to the listed asking price but sometimes well over the asking price if the home was in great condition.

The extremely low interest rates coupled with prices being at affordable prices are prompting investors and first time home buyers to making the plunge into making a purchase now. I believe we are feeling the "bottom" of the market in our city and the time to act is now.

If you are considering putting your home up for sale, take the first step and learn what your home is currently worth. Call or email me today to get a complete Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) into your homes value. It could be worth more than you think!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

New San Luis Obispo Homes - Serra Meadows

New San Luis Obispo Homes - Serra Meadows

This Blog is older and doesn't reflect the newest floor plans, elevations, pricing and schedules for the Serra Meadows development. Please view blog posts from November 2012 on for the accurate information.

As you drive around the city of San Luis Obispo I'm sure you have seen the billboards for the new development off of Prado Road. The new Serra Meadows development is the newest development of 177 Single Family homes in San Luis Obispo, starting in the mid $400,000.

The new homes will be 3–5 bedrooms, 2 1/2–3 1/2 baths and ranging from1,500–2,300 sq. ft.  The home styles are fashioned in the quintessential early 20th Century style—Craftsman, California Bungalow, Spanish Revival and Provincial. Seven unique, open and livable floor plans incorporate “green” building elements, such as abundant natural daylight, large roof overhangs and energy efficient appliances. The spacious feel of each home is accentuated by open kitchens, large windows and inviting porches and patio areas that create comfortable, livable spaces. The neighborhood landscaping is classic Mediterranean with colorful and drought-resistant plantings.

The latest news on the development is that there are four model homes that are currently underway this May 2012. There will be four different floor plans that will be constructed for the public to see and walk around in. There will be "The Sage", which is not on the website, "The Peony", "The Magnolia" and "The Willow" available to view Mid-August. Once you are pre-qualified with their lender you will be on the waiting list to choose the lot location of your home. You will be able to choose your homes interior finishes, like counter tops, bathroom fixtures, lighting and paint colors.

If you or a friend or family member are curious about this development and want the latest scoop on what is going on with it, I am your resource. Call me or email me to discuss it, I'm here to help.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

New Path to Connect San Luis Obispo to Pismo

New Path to Connect San Luis Obispo to Pismo

A new Class 1 multi-use path is being proposed that would connect San Luis Obispo to Pismo Beach. A Class 1 designated path is separated from any road traffic. The path, which is comparable to the Bob Jones City to the Sea Bike Trail in Avila Beach and would be open to cyclists, walkers and runners.

It would extend from SLO through Edna Valley and down Price Canyon out to Pismo Beach. The extension of the so-called De Anza trail is thought to be the original route taken by Juan Batista De Anza when he traveled through California visiting the state's missions in the 1770s. To execute the proposed path property owners along the path would need to either grant easements to the city or sell their property.

The path could take more than ten years to build even if the property owners along the path decide to move forward. SLO City Planning Commissioner Eric Meyer, who has proposed the route, is working now to get local government agencies to commit to a plan for the path. Other planned multi-use paths in the County that are a little further along in the process include the Bob Jones trail extension, connecting SLO to the existing Bob Jones trail. It's currently going through environmental review and the connector from Morro Bay to Cayucos which may start the coastal permitting process within the year.

All exciting news!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Mountain View Estate in San Luis Obispo

Mountain View Estate in San Luis Obispo - $2,600,000

This home has the most spectacular view of San Luis Obispo City and the picturesque mountains along the entire Central Coast! This estate is called Villa de Las Colinas, which loosely translated to "Villa in the hills", and this is the perfect description for this 3 Acre property nestled in the eastern mountains in San Luis Obispo.


(View this and other Real Estate Videos at my Official YouTube Real Estate HQ Channel!)

This gated, private modern home has 13' high walls of glass in the spacious main living area offering exquisite sunset views over the twinkling lights of San Luis Obispo and two picturesque mountains called Cerro San Luis and Bishop Peak. Privately located with 3,000+ acres of designated open space on three sides creates the ultimate in exclusive locations and undisturbed tranquility just minutes from downtown. The home also offers professional designed low maintenance grounds, a sport court, open lawn area, expansive outdoor living spaces ideal for al fresco dining and entertaining.

This 9,000+ sq.ft. home features three stories of breathtaking views, five bedrooms, six full and two half baths and spectacular open kitchen, large media room with wet bar, wine storage, exercise room, craft room with sink, private play room with hidden staircase and music area. It also has a luxurious master suite with a private balcony. To top it off, all five separate bedrooms have en suite baths.

This home is for you if you are looking for a showpiece to live and entertain in. This property is not a distress property but is well cared for in every detail of the home.

If you want more information or would like to schedule a private showing, I would love to see this house again with you. Call me or email me about your interest.

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Now Accessing Statewide MLS!

Now Accessing Statewide MLS (Multiple Listing Service)!

Many folks don't know that 99.9% of Realtors in San Luis Obispo only have assess to their County's homes for sale, this is a very narrow segment of the Real Estate market. This puts you the home buyer and seller at an extreme disadvantage. I am proud to say that I am a recent member of the California Statewide MLS system.  Being a member I will be a stronger resource to you as your Realtor.

This Statewide MLS has the most complete and accurate database of listings. I'm able to send you listings, set you up for email notifications of new property and the biggest advantage is that I'm able to list your home and market your home statewide. This advantage gets you maximum exposure to other Realtors, and their buyers, in California.

I work hard to keep on the cutting edge of my business to continue to deliver on your evolving client/ consumer expectations. I look forward to listing your home on the Statewide MLS in the near future.

Please call or email me with any question about the subject of Real Estate. I'm here to help!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Hawaii to Central Coast on Allegiant Air

San Luis Obispo County is one of the best places in the world to live... and work if you're lucky. One of the very few complaints people have about living here is about accessibility to other areas with direct flights.  It appears as if Allegiant Air out of the Santa Maria Airport is going to be the game changer for Central Coast native's to enjoy direct flights to the warm waters of Hawaii!

I wonder if this will have any affect of vacations homes or real estate here or there? Regardless, I know my family and friends will be enjoying this fantastic benefit and improvement to our area. Not having to drive several hours (each way) to take a flight to somewhere as magical as Hawaii is so exciting.

Last year Allegiant Air finished it's 12.3 million dollar runway extension to accommodate larger 757 aircraft. Interestingly, the new runway length is nearly 2,000 feet longer than San Luis Obispo Airport or Santa Barbara Airport runways. Allegiant recently ordered 6 new 757's and with a little luck, one will be finished and operational out of Santa Maria this summer so we can enjoy a cost effective package to Hawaii right from the Central Coast. Some conversations lead me to think Allegiant Air will be packaging flights with hotels similar to their affordable packages they have to Las Vegas and Florida.  It's a formula that seems to work out well for everyone. It is not clear yet if the direct flight will be to the big island or Oahu. Accessibility and free parking is easy at the Santa Maria Airport.

I hope this news puts as big of a smile on your face as it did mine. Living here just keeps getting better.

See you in Hawaii or at a Open House on the Central Coast soon!

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082

Bridlewood on Amazing Race Tonight!

Bridlewood Winery is on The Amazing Race Tonight!


Being a realtor to the central coast, its always a pleasure to go to events at a local winery and brag about it!

One of my favorite local wineries will be on a national TV show tonight, The Amazing Race on CBS.  They will be kicking off the new Amazing Race season on the Bridlewood Estate Winery lawn in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Bridlewood is not only a distinct and beautiful location but showcases the best of local handcrafted wines on the Central Coast.


Visit the Central Coast and make Bridlewood your next stop on your wine tasting tour.

Bridlewood Estate Winery
3555 Roblar Avenue,  Santa Ynez, CA 93460
(805) 688-9000

"A Realtor that knows homes." Traci Ferguson 805-235-6396 traci@traciferguson.com http://www.traciferguson.com License #01875751, ecoBroker #16082