Serra Meadows - Money Saving Green Features

Serra Meadows - Money Saving Green Features

I'm so proud to be sharing the green features of the Serra Meadows Development in San Luis. I'm very excited about them because they save you money every month on your utilities and these features come as no added cost to you as the buyer, all of it is included with the home. Also don't forget, I am an ecoBroker and have the knowledge to tell you about many of the Green benefits the project has to offer. Please lean on me with any questions about them.

Exterior Green Features
 -  Solar Panels, that will provide up to 3.43 kW of free energy
 -  Low-E Windows provide energy savings and insulate from direct sunlight
 -  Engineered lumber harvested sustainably
 -  Permeable Paving on driveways & walkways allows water to return back into the ground
 -  Drought Tolerant Landscaping is native to the area and needs less water
 -  Smart Irrigation Timer waters plants when they need it

Interior Green Features
 -  Tankless Water heater, Energy Start Rated gives you hot water on demand
 -  U.S. made cabinets, reduce the buildings carbon foot print
 -  Water saving fixtures in kitchen faucets and shower heads, reduce your water usage
 -  Fluorescent lighting throughout, uses less electricity overall
 -  Low-VOC Paint, creates a safe and healthier indoor air quality environment
 -  Low-VOC Carpeting and Flooring, reduce the amount of off gassing from most glues and binders
 -  Insulation in the walls from CertainTeed are made from renewable plant based materials
 -  Programable Thermostat provides comfort and energy savings


These are some of the many added benefits of buying a Serra Meadows Home. If you'd like to be updated with any new developments in the project, please subscribe to my newsletter and I will keep you posted. Put the Phrase "Serra Meadows" in the  How did you hear of me? section of the form.

I look forward to being your realtor in your next home purchase.

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

Serra Meadows is Back on Track!

Serra Meadows is Back on Track!

My last blog post about the New homes going up in San Luis Obispo called Serra Meadows, was May 2012. I'm happy to say after many months of wondering I can definitely say the project is happening. Many of you have been calling me asking about the status of the project. Some of the many reasons for the delay was the original builder MD2 was fired, the floor plans have been redone by a local architecture firm and new features have been added to the list of standard features that are very exciting.

I recently walked the site, located on Prado Rd., with my husband to see the layout of the project and walk into some of the homes under construction. The overall goal of the project is to create more of a classic neighborhood friendly feel. They have done that with large sidewalks and garages that are accessed to the rear of the home by an alleyway, better open floor plans that allow for rooms to flow together and accommodate the modern family and Roof top Solar Panels that are standard with every home purchase. These are just a few of the exciting features you can expect. I will blog next week about the additional Green features that come included in your Serra Meadows Home.

The project will include eight distinct home floor plans that are single and 2-story homes designs. Once you choose your favorite floor plan you have 3 unique home styles to choose from, the exterior design choices are based on what plan you like. The homes range from "The Rose", a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with 1,649 sq.ft to their largest home, "The Elm" a 4-bedroom 4.5-bath home at 2,569 sq.ft. With a wide range of choices you are sure to find the perfect home for you and your family.

Homes will be available to see very soon. let me know if you would like to preview any of the home styles. If you'd like to be updated with any new developments in the project, please subscribe to my newsletter and I will keep you posted. Put the Phrase "Serra Meadows" in the  How did you hear of me? section of the form.


I look forward to being your realtor in your next home purchase.

"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

Traci's Your Realtor for it all...

Traci's your San Luis Obispo Realtor for it all...

Yesterday I got a call from a potential buyer who found my information on a sign I have at my listing on Royal Way in San Luis Obispo. Anne called to learn more about my listing and she was asking all the right questions.  We got into the property details and she was happy to hear all of the information I was giving her about the property.  But, as we were talking, I was not only giving her info she was asking about but I was asking her questions to get a sense of what her objectives are in her next home purchase.


But the reason for this Blog post is because while I was talking to Anne I wasn't just regurgitating the information about the home. Rather, we got into discussing the current housing market and the pro's and con's of living in the San Luis Obispo area.  I want my current and future clients to know that my job as your Realtor is to not only helping you find a home but to be a beacon for ALL aspects of housing.  That can include current housing market, moving, repairs, consultants, San Luis Obispo city & county items, schools, local amenities and calendar events in the area.  It's my job to be "In the Know".   I'm happy to share my knowledge and information to better your life and your families life.  Let me be your resource for these things.  I am just a phone call away.  In the epic words of Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, " Help me , Help you..."

Your realtor is your resource for your neighborhood and lifestyle!

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

Paso Robles - Open House, 1759 Highland Park Drive, 11-3pm Sunday July 31st

 Paso Robles - Open House, 1759 Highland Park Drive, 11-3pm Sunday July 31st

 Welcome to . . . 1759 Highland Park Drive,  Paso Robles, CA 93446 . . . in beautiful San Luis Obispo's north county the gorgeous California Central Coast

This home is a classic beauty! The panoramic views from this home are the most spectacular in Paso Robles. This property is located in a very desirable hilltop area of Paso at the end of a cul-de-sac. Enjoy warm Summer nights on the wrap-around deck overlooking the City and foothills below. Indulge in the Almond Orchard and expansive open space on a 0.41 acre lot. This 2,600 sq.ft. private cozy home has all the amenities you need for a great family. Newer AC Unit and all appliances are included. The large family room and office space is perfect for working from home. There are lots of storage spaces throughout the home and the oversized garage is perfect for toys and tools. Make us any reasonable offer today on this classic beauty.

Priced at $550,000

Visit this website for more info and photos . . . www.1759HighlandPark.com or contact me today about a showing.

 

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

San Luis Obispo Landscaper - AAA Landscaping

San Luis Obispo Landscaper - AAA Landscaping

I recently met the owner of AAA Landscaping. Shawn Sousa a San Luis Obispo Landscaper that has been beautifying the Central Coast for years. 

Landscaping can be a great way to beautify and add property value to your home. Living on the Central Coast we have a variety of low water usage plants to choose from. Watering can be expensive and using a reputable landscaper that can help with irrigation tips and tricks can keep your watering to a minimum. I was happy to find out that Shawn and his company are integrating Green Landscaping techniques, like previous pavers to allow rain water to go back into the ground as well as choosing drought tolerant landscaping that can save up to 80% on water usage.

AAA Landscaping prides itself on staying up with the most current low water use methods to irrigate homes. They offer full service Landscaping needs for you home or business.

Their Services Include:

• Free Estimates
• Interlocking Pavers
• Retaining Walls
• Irrigation Systems
• Yard Maintenance
• Sodding & Seeding
• Aerating & Dethatching
• Clean Ups
• Tree Trimming

Call or email Shawn today to get an estimate of your next landscaping project. He will deliver professional service with a professional attitude.

AAA Landscaping

Shawn Sousa

(805) 748-3721                    
ssousa1@sbcglobal.net

If you need any additional referrals to great local businesses, please don't hesitate to call or email me with your request.
 

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

Top 3 San Luis Obispo Buyer Questions

Top 3 San Luis Obispo Buyer Questions

I have noticed that there have been reoccurring Realtor questions from my San Luis Obispo buyers in the past couple of transactions I have done. I have also heard these questions at Open Houses or just in casual conversation. I thought I would address them and give my best answers for each.

1. "If it's possible prices haven't hit bottom yet why, should I buy now?"

My response: While price is a major concern for anyone selling a home, cost should be you primary concern as a buyer. This means you need to take into account what your monthly payments will be, considering not just the price of the home but also your interest rate of your mortgage and property tax amount. San Luis is 1.125% of the purchase price. Inevitably interest rates will increase, making the amount of home you can afford go down. 
See my blog post "Cost vs. Price" for an expansion on how interest rates effect your "buyability"


2. "When will we see appreciation if I buy a home now?"


My response: Appreciation varies by your local market and you would need to look at local pricing trends. Nationally there are indicators that are feeling positive about 2011 and where the market is going. The National Association of Realtors projects a slight increase nationally of 0.5%. Another company that did a National Home Price Expectation Survey showed that experts think prices will begin to build beginning in the second half of 2011 and a cumulative appreciation of more than 10% between now and 2015 nationally.


3."Does buying still make better sense than renting?"

My response: It depends!... Most people buy a home for reasons other than financial. They may want security in their housing situation. They may want to be able to control where they live and be able to do more with their home. I ask them, "What non-financial benefits would your family have to buy a home instead of renting?" The bottom line is it has to be the right timing and make sense to you and your family to do it.

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

Great San Luis Obispo Title Sales Manager - Stacy Gregory!

Great San Luis Obispo Title Sales Manager -  Stacy Gregory!

Stacy Gregory is a County Sales Manager for First American Title Company in San Luis Obispo. Stacy has a positive attitude and is always ready to help with anything. Stacy has been a helpful part of my Real Estate team. She has helped me with no hesitation on getting information and helping me close deals with ease.

Stacy is approachable, eager to help and always open to new ideas to help agents be more efficient and help us get our job done faster. Thank you Stacy for all that you do and your commitment to being the best at what you do. I am grateful for it!

Contact Stacy today to help you get a great Title Officer on your side for you next Central Coast escrow.

First American Title Company
899 Pacific Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 543-8900
(805) 471-6625 direct

If you ware looking to sell or buy a home in SLO County, give Traci a call.

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

San Luis Obispo Property - Deal Of the Week, Short Sale

646-646 1/2  Caudill St,  San Luis Obispo, CA  93401  - $459,000

This San Luis Obispo property is a Short Sale and is Two grandfathered 2 bedroom, 1 bath houses on one lot. Nicely landscaped front yard, rear fenced yard. Two single garages connected to back unit (one for each house). Newly painted, refinished hardwood floors. Perfect investment property and priced for multiple offers. Click here for more information and images. Contact Traci with any questions.

Traci Ferguson, REALTOR - San Luis Obispo
traci@traciferguson.com
(805) 235-6396, (888) OK-TRACI
http://www.traciferguson.com

Why Would You Pay Down Points?

Paying Points
As a new home buyer you have to make many decisions. Buying a home can feel like a daunting task. As your real estate agent, I am here to guide you to get the information you need. You have many decisions to make including what is the best possible percentage rate can you get to keep your mortgage payment low. I have had some clients ask about points, what the benefits are and when is the best possible time to pay them.

Lets start with the definition:
The term points has multiple meanings in the mortgage world. Mortgage points can refer to loan origination fees (fees charged by the underwriter) or discount points (also known as loan discounts). Typically, a point is equal to 1% of the purchase price. By using a Mortgage Calculator you can see how paying money upfront to pay down your interest rate can lower your mortgage payment. The difference in savings over the life of the loan can make paying points a benefit to the borrower. Using a Mortgage Calculator can determine what and how many points you would need to pay down to get the interest rate and monthly payment you are looking for.

When should you pay down points?
If you intend to stay in your home for an extended period of time, it may be worthwhile to pay additional points in order to obtain a lower interest rate. The amount of money you save over an extended period of time will off set the upfront costs you made at the beginning.  Paying points on a short term investment or residence doesn't make financial sense to do.

For more information, or to use my Mortgage Calculator, click here to begin. Or visit my website for additional Mortgage Calculators.

Traci Ferguson
805-235-6396
traci@tracifergsuon.com
http://www.traciferguson.com

Preparing your San Luis Obispo Home For Sale

San Luis Obispo sellers that will be listing their home for Sale in 2011 will have the upper hand if they follow some simple tips when preparing their Home For Sale? As the new year approaches and I am getting inquires about listing property, the question has come up; "How do I get my home ready to put it on the market?"

Well you can watch a four minute video on my website, explaining how to prepare your home for sale.
Or see the list below to set your home up for the best possible chances for being sold first and impress any buyer.

1. First impressions are everything. What first impressions is your home giving? - If your yard, walkway and landscaping are over grown and need some trimming, get it done before buyers start coming by. Trim back hedges, rake the leaves and make the yard nice and neat.

2. What focal point can you enhance to build better curb appeal? If you have a large oak in your front yard or a beautiful rose garden, make sure they are showcased in the best possible way to appeal to buyers. Trim back hedges into tidy mounds. Also they may be blocking in natural sunlight that could be filtering back into rooms in the house.

3. What first impression is your front door or entry saying? Every buyer will judge your house in the first eight seconds.Give the front door a fresh coat of paint and update the hardware & new screen on the door to impress buyers. Pay attention to detail to make the home look as expensive as possible.

4. Where can you reap the most benefits on enticing a buyer? Kitchen and Bathrooms sell homes. In the kitchen, make simple changes by giving the cabinets a fresh coat of paint. Keep counter tops clear and clutter free. Don't leave out mail and personal items that others can see. You want the buyer to envision themselves in this house. It's hard to envision with personal photos and your stuff all over.

5. What simple things in the bathroom can you do?  Freshen things up with a new coat of paint on the cabinets, re-grouting or re-glaze your bathtub. Keep the amount of items on the counter tops down to a minimum. If you are still living in the home, keep the toothpaste and toothbrushes away and take it out as you need them

6. What are buyers looking for in bedrooms? You want your bedrooms to feel bigger, so keep clothes and stuff off the floor. De-clutter and remove extra furniture so rooms feel bigger and give the impression of light and expansiveness. Clean rooms look bigger.

7. Where else can you catch a buyers eye? Linen Closets and overall attention to order and detail will give buyers the impression you keep your things tidy and the home is probably just as taken care of. Stacking towels neat and tidy go a long way. Remember to keep it simple if you are staging your property as well. Simple is Better!

 These simple changes can add value to the overall sale of your home. You only have one time to make a first impression, make it the best possible impression you can.

Traci Ferguson
805-235-6396
traci@traciferguson.com
http://www.traciferguson.com

New Years Business Resolutions for 2011

Starting out the new year with solid goals is like a fresh start to the entire year. My goal this year is to be more efficient with how I run my business in Real Estate and how I work with my San Luis Obispo buyers & sellers. As a Real Estate agent I need to stay focused and remind myself what is important in every day business life.

Below are thoughts about ways to be more efficient in Real Estate or any business you are in. Following these focus steps will lead you towards better efficiency and profitability in your business.

1. Resolve to create a profile of your ideal customer and stick to it. Figure out who you can best serve and use this understanding as a guide for determining who to work with and who to refer on.
2. Commit to working with only your ideal customers for this year. You'll feel happier and your business will be more joyful.
3. Promise yourself to make business decisions guided by your heart, head and finances. Too much of any one is not good but a little of all three can be very helpful when considering new opportunities or approaches.
4. Agree to let yourself be known. Get more comfortable with promoting yourself and your business and let people know who you are and what you do.
5. Tend to your current best customers and ask for referrals to more customers just like them. This is the fastest and easiest way to grow your business.
6. Freshen up your marketing strategies. Try a new marketing approach, especially if it makes you stretch. Keep yourself on the growing edge and keep refining your marketing.
7. Learn something new. Seeking out new knowledge and new methods can keep you feeling interested and enthusiastic even with the occasional ups and downs of business.
8. Master a positive mindset. Keep your mind free of self doubt, worry, or fear. You can achieve what you desire or else you wouldn't want it in the first place.
9. Ask for help. Allow others to mentor, guide, support and coach you to reach your goals. The journey is better when it's shared. And it's more likely you'll get there - with help, than on your own.
10. Savor your accomplishments. What's the point of continually achieving business milestones if you never savor the feeling of accomplishment? The more you enjoy your business success, the more success you will have to enjoy.

I wish you all the very best 2011. Let's make this year the most profitable and satisfying one yet.
Now go out and take over the world!
This is a re-post from Skip Reardon - Monday, December 20, 2010 - http://tinyurl.com/2e7q49p

Traci Ferguson
805-235-6396
traci@traciferguson.com
http://www.traciferguson.com

Buyer Resources - Mortgage Calculator

As a buyer in San Luis Obispo you need to have all the information you can to make an informed decision. My job is to help you get the information you need.

I recently have added a Mortgage Calculator to my site, and not just one type of mortgage calculator mind you!
When you go to my site, http://www.traciferguson.com and click on the center button," Real Estate Videos & Info" scroll down to Free Mortgage Calculator. Or click here to see a list of calculators available to you.

How much will my payments be?
How long will my mortgage last if I pay more every month?
How much income to qualify?
How much home can I afford?
Should I pay points?
Should I refinance?
What are the tax benefits of buying?
Standard vs. Bi-weekly
What is my APR?
Interest-Only Payment Calculator        

If you are considering buying in San Luis check out my site and the Mortgage Calculator page.Get a feel for what your payments will be, know what to expect and how your money can work for you. If you have any questions or would like to discuss any of these calculators I would be happy to answer.

Traci Ferguson
805.235.6396
traci@traciferguson.com

Going Paperless in Real Estate

 As an ecoBroker and Realtor  in San Luis Obispo I can be burdened by the cost of printing. The amount of paperwork needed to document and move a property through escrow can be surprising. It's not uncommon to print out over 200 pieces of paper for  one transaction. I began to think for a way I could move through a transaction and minimize my use of paper. My personal challenge is to go paperless. These are the steps I'm taking.

Choose a PDF format
My computer's default printer is now set to save a PDF format document on my hard drive. Using this option makes me think twice about whether I need to print a hard copy or if a saved PDF image on the computer is appropriate. it's also eliminated the "oops" fact of printing something I didn't mean to print.

Use Digital Signatures
Using electronic signatures for my transactions is one of the greatest thing I have ever done. I'm saving paper, toner, gas and time on each transaction.  My clients love it because it's easier and quicker to sign the documents. I don't have to worry about printing the initial document and copies to my clients are automatic.

Reuse Handouts
By creating a printout and laminating a sample transaction, which covered the purchase price, financing arrangement, closing costs, and any addenda that clients can use when they're reviewing the transaction on-screen. This will encourage them not to print a copy, as they can see the sample transaction in the laminated format. I'll even provide notes on the sample so that they can know what to look for when reviewing their transactions online. When we are done with the transaction.  I'll ask for the laminated copy back so I can provide it to the next client.

Store Documents Electronically
Transaction management software provides a single storage place for all documents that are needed for any transaction.  The benefit is the ability to generate a single CD at the transaction's completion, which can become my agent file. A second CD can be provided to clients for their records. A much better approach because no one ever looks at the mounds of closing documents after the transaction anyways.

No More Flyer Boxes
I'm going for a paperless marketing approach for my listed properties. There are numerous tools available to allow customers to get information via website, text, and phone from directly in front of a property. Using these tools will allow me to do a better job at capturing prospects' contact information and will ensure that there is never an empty flyer box at any of my listings. My clients will love knowing that potential buyers can get all the information they could possibly want, day or night, based on signage in the font yard.

I can feel good about structuring my business to go paperless, save some time, money and trees while doing it. Our digital age makes it so much easier to do this. Now everyone can use these resources to their advantage.

Traci Ferguson
 805-235-6396
http://www.traciferguson.com

San Luis Obispo Downtown Home for Sale!

Blocks from down town San Luis Obsipo, this home combines modern construction and features with classic, downtown San Luis style. Wood floors from the original structure have been utilized in the main home and a very clean studio over the garage has direct access from the alley as do all three garage spaces.

Click Here to see and learn more about this home.

MAIN HOME: A cathedral ceiling in the great room plus woodburning fireplace, slate hearth, hardwood flooring, and recessed lighting to help set the mood for gorgeous SLO living. There are dual-paned windows, decorator colors, beautiful cabinetry in the kitchen, along with a Fisher Paykal 5-burner gas cooktop, electric convection oven, large countertops and slate tile flooring.

Enjoy a home that boasts two suites! The master suite with walk-in closet and master bath also with dual vanities, plus separate shower and jetted tub . . . the guest suite, with its own full bath, has plenty of closet space and an extra bonus nook that offers extra furnishing possibilities!
The indoor laundry is an added convenience.

 Click Here to see more of the interior of this home.

DETACHED STUDIO: The separate studio to the rear has its own balcony view deck, vaulted ceiling, wood flooring, custom and recessed lighting, kitchen, full bathroom, and large room for bedroom / living room / dining area.

The yard has privacy fencing and lots of gardening possibilities ... Bring your ideas for creating your own garden / entertainment haven. SLO’s perfect microclimate may serve your planting ideas well.
There is a fenced side yard off the main home offering privacy and an area for pets or playing.
This home includes a 3-car garage below the studio.  Offered at $699,000

Click Here to see and learn more about this home. Or call me today to learn more 805.235.6396

San Luis Obsipo Real Estate - Income Property Ideas!

If you are a Real Estate Investor, own Rental Property or Commercial Property in San Luis Obispo; how can you increase the income you're getting from your property? Well, read below.

We are all looking for ways to increase income in our resent market conditions in San Luis County. Sometimes the possibilities are right in front of us. Take a moment and look at your commercial property or rental property with a new set of eyes, to see if you can spot any changes that could make you some extra rental income. 

Sometimes owners of rental properties fail to see some obvious money making opportunities in their own buildings. I like to call these updates or changes to increase you income, " Revenue Enhancement Opportunities", for Example:

• If you have an extra storage unit could it be converted to a better income unit than its current use? Could it be modified to an office space for a small business? It could have potential for rent in the hundreds of dollars a month. 
• Do you have a parking garage that has odd shaped corners that are not suitable for parking? Are there potential storage areas that could be rented out to tenants or small businesses?
• Areas of a building that are used for centralized mechanical systems could be consolidated to add a small rentable space.
• An area like an inside refuse area used for all tenants can be moved to the outside of the building. Freeing up that space to be built out to a small office, conference room or rented as storage.

Tour your San Luis Obispo income property with a new perspective to find additional income streams to build your revenue enhancement opportunities. There are numerous opportunities to add rental income without expensive additions to the property.

If you are looking for a rental property or  an income opportunity, email me today to get a list of income producing properties for San Luis Obispo County.  Or go to my website and fill in the Home Search form under my video page.

I'm "Your Realtor that Knows Homes".

San Luis Obispo - Investor Tip: Making it easier to buy a home!

How can home buying be easier in San Luis Obispo? 
In my last blog post I touched on the HomeStyle® Renovation Mortgage. A program available for home buyers or investors who need to make renovations to a home.

A HomeStyle Renovation Mortgage is available to buy or refinance a home (with up to four units) that you will live in as your primary residence.

 Instead of financing the renovation with a second mortgage or home equity loan, you get the lower interest rates of a first mortgage and only have to pay for one mortgage closing. And with a HomeStyle Renovation Mortgage, you can borrow an amount based on the value of the home after the renovations are finished, so you know you will have the funds available to do the job right. For borrowers considering major home improvements, this option provides an effective and affordable way to leverage the future value of a home with a single-close first mortgage.

If you are an investor who is considering purchasing a property that is currently owned by Fannie Mae that is in need of a little work – the Fannie Mae Home Style renovation mortgage (a close cousin to the Fannie Mae HomePath renovation mortgage) is the loan program designed for you.
At closing, all funds for renovation will be escrowed in an interest-bearing account. After all renovation work is complete, any remaining funds in the escrow account will be used to pay down the principal balance of the mortgage.

If this is of interest to you, I can help with finding a Fannie Mae lender partner in your area and find Home Path Properties in the San Luis Obispo County Area. I have the tools and resources to get you a home today. Let me be your Realtor of choice.

I am also available via email for any questions you may have about this or any other program. I look forward to helping you make smart choices.

San Luis Obispo - Home Buyer Tip: Making it easier to buy a home!

How can home buying be easier in San Luis Obispo? 
Well Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac; the two largest purchasers of home loans, set the standards under which they will purchase loans from banks and mortgage companies. They have set up a program to reduce their growing inventory of nearly 1,500 Foreclosed homes called HomePath®

So what's in it for buyers? The benefits include:

• Reduced Home Prices
• Low down payment and flexible mortgage terms (fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, or interest-only)
• You may qualify even if your credit is less than perfect
• Available to both owner occupiers and investors*
• Down payment (at least 3 percent) can be funded by your own savings; a gift; a grant; or a loan from a nonprofit organization, state or local government, or employer
• No mortgage insurance (Typically if you don't put down 20%, you would need it.)
• No appraisal fees
• Also eligible for HomePath® Renovation Mortgage*
• HomePath® Mortgage financing is available from a variety of lenders - both local and national.

*If you're an investor interested in renovating a property in San Luis County, you may qualify for financing under our HomeStyle® Renovation Mortgage product. See my next Blog Post explaining this option.

Currently there are 3 homes available under this program in the city of San Luis Obispo. There are many more in other neighboring cities. Email me today to get a list of homes that qualify in your area. Take advantage of a government program that helps you purchase at bargain prices and extremely low interest rates.

This is just another way to learn and be smart about Real Estate with me at your side. For any of your home buying needs look to a Realtor that Knows Homes in SLO County.

San Luis Obsipo Home Energy Rating System (HERS), New for Buyers!

In San Luis Obsipo we have homes that are Green and made from Sustainable building materials.
The California Energy Commission has released the New Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Booklet. As an ecoBroker®, I am familiar with these homes and they typically have lower energy costs and utility bills, depending on what energy efficiency methods were used on the home.

As a new home owner looking to buy, what information on energy usage can you get for a home you're interested in purchasing? We'll there are new options open to you. The California Energy Commission has released the New Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Booklet.

Why is this GREAT?
1. Well you now have options to add energy efficient improvements at the time of sale. Improvements are completed through escrow and you move in with the new Energy Efficient features already in place.

2. There are options for financing energy efficient improvements and it explains where to find tax credits and rebate information. As your EcoBroker I can also help you with this as an option.

3. You can request utility bills from the existing owner to learn more about what to expect from your future home utility costs, make improvements and make the home more efficient before you move in.

This HERS Booklet is not a mandatory part of escrow or disclosures by an Realtor, but it will be a part of the mandatory Combined Hazards Booklet. As your ecoBroker I have the inside scoop on how to effectively gain more knowledge and put more money back into the buyers pocket through monthly utility savings.

If you are interested in moving or purchasing a home in our glorious City of San Luis Obispo, click here to see available homes. Or email me with any questions you have.

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