San Luis Obispo Real Estate Information

San Luis Obispo Real Estate Information

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"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

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

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

Refinancing Your San Luis Obispo Property...

Refinancing Your San Luis Obispo Property... 

San Luis home owners who missed the refinancing opportunity when rates were in the high 3%'s should consider refinancing in the next couple of months to lock in a lower rate. Interest rates are still at an all time low and the opportunity is presenting itself again!

Kevin Hauber, Senior Loan Consultant with iMortgage here in San Luis Obispo says;
"Current loan limits in San Luis Obispo County allow for high balance loans of up to $687,500 for conventional and FHA loans on one unit properties.  Those limits will go down effective October 1st to $561,200.  It is important for any buyers or those wishing to refinance with a loan amount between this new limit of $561,200 and the current limit of $687,500 to conclude their transactions before the change becomes effective.  After that time, higher balances will be considered Jumbo loans and subject to different criteria and pricing."

For more info on Refinancing your San Luis home call Kevin Hauber (805) 597-8844




For more information or questions on Real Estate give Traci a call 805-235-6396 or email me.

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

San Luis Obispo Historical Home for Sale !! - Deal of the Week

San Luis Obispo Historical Home for Sale!! - Deal of the Week
Amazing Price for a Legendary historic Mill Street District Property - vintage California Architecture.

$975,000... 1307  Mill St,  San Luis Obispo, CA  93401
Flier with detail

• 3-bedroom/ 2.5-bath 
• 2,500 aprox. sq.ft.
• 0.27 Acre lot
• 2-Car Garage

This property recently got a dramatic $75,000 price drop. The seller is very motivated to sell this beautiful home.

Tray ceilings, stained glass, wood moldings and extensive built in cabinetry point to the craftsmanship that fill this iconic residence. 

Expansive rooms with sun filled interiors. Warmth and grandeur describe this very special home located on one of San Luis Obispo's premier tree lined boulevards. 

Mature landscaping and terraced hardscape make for endless outdoor living possibilities.

The precious yellow playhouse in the picture was designed by Julia Morgan and it shares residence on this oversized R2 lot.







A rare opportunity to own a piece of San Luis Obispo's history. 
Contact me today to learn more about this Historical Piece of San Luis

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

Arroyo Grande California Home For Sale

Arroyo Grande California Home For Sale!
You want this Charming French Country Canyon Crest Estates Home! Located in Arroyo Grande on a premium lot with over $80K of interior improvements. 

This warm 4bed/3bath home w/detached Office/Studio is perfect for entertaining & enjoying views of the Oceano Dunes, Huasna Valley & Ocean. 

Welcoming red oak hardwood upstairs & custom tile floors downstairs creates a custom feel.

This 1/2 Acre property is located above the fog line so the home is bright & sunny. 

Low maintenance custom designed Landscaping w/Extended View Decks, Paved Walks, Custom Stone Walls & Raised Flower Beds.

This Arroyo Grande home is offered at $850,000. It's easy to show and has sellers who are willing to work with your offer! Give me a call to day to schedule a showing of this Entertainers Dream home.

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

Great Investment Property in Grover Beach... $489K for a Tri-Plex

Great Investment Property in Grover Beach... $489K for a Tri-Plex

I have a listing in Grover Beach that is a great opportunity for any investor in San Luis Obispo.

Contemporary Grover Beach Tri-Plex! Units are 2-Bed, 1-Bath w/ 2car Garage. Each unit is separate from another, no adjoining walls. Units have high clear story windows with tons of natural light & generous living rooms. Live in one and rent out the other 2-units. Very strong rental area & below market rental rates. Coin-op laundry on-site. Seller also ownes the Tri-Plex next door and is also available for purchase. A current expense report is available on request. Seller intends on doing a 1031 exchange.

To see more photos click Tri-Plex. Or if you would like an expense report email Traci.

"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

Reduce Your San Luis Obispo Property Tax Bill!

Reduce Your San Luis Obispo Property Tax Bill!

Do you own a home in San Luis Obispo that has declined in property value? In California we live in a high property tax area and you can save a bundle by fighting your assessment. The County has been reassessing properties all over, but they haven't yet gotten to everyone. You can do something today to get your home reevaluated. Doing it yourself can seem like a daunting task, but there are easy steps to reduce your bill to a much more realistic value of your home, lot or condo.

Example 
I love examples so here's one to give you a clear scenario:
Let's say you live in San Luis Obispo and the value of your home has reduced from $600,000 to $450,000. A huge drop! A reassessment of your bill could lower your annual bill from approximately $7,500 to $5,625, an annual savings of $1,875. That's two round trip tickets to Italy!

So now what?
SLO County has a website that walks you through the process. The "Decline in Property Value" Application is available to download and fill out. There is even a Decline in Value Estimator that can tell you if you are eligible for a reduction. You will need your 9-digit Assessment Parcel Number (APN) to do it. The Parcel number is on your annual property tax bill. You will also need to put in a fair market value of your home based on homes that have sold in your area recently. A Realtor can get you this number, email me if you need a more accurate number. Then it spits out your revised Assessed Value. Then fill out the "Decline in Property Value"form and get the county moving on your reassessment. Do wait till they do it, it could take years.

Options
If you aren't up for the task you can outsource the work to a local real estate lawyer or a property tax appeal expert. They will handle everything and charge 25%-50% of your first years tax savings. I recommend doing it your self, SLO County makes it simple to do.


I hope this is helpful and if you live in another California County or another State you can do this too. Many forms and resources online can assist you in being proactive with reassessments. I encourage you to do this as part of your new year resolution. Take the extra money and go an amazing vacation and send me a postcard.:)


Are you in the market to buy or to sell your home? Give me a call today!

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

A Great SLO County Loan Officer - Michael Hunstad!

A Great SLO County Loan Officer - Michael Hunstad! 

Today I would like to tell the world about Michael Hunstad. He's a Senior Mortgage Loan Officer in Santa Maria, CA for Guild Mortgage. I recently did a deal with Michael and his time and attention to finalizing our deal was amazing. His incredible staff returned calls and got answers to questions promptly.  He was a great asset to the closing of my deal. As a Realtor it's a privilege to work with professionals that never get in the way of a deal and Michael and his staff did just that.
Thank you Michael.:)

If you are looking for a loan or would like to talk to a reputable loan officer give Michael a call 805-448-0348 or email him directly.

Guild Mortgage
2236 S. Broadway Suite B,
Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-448-0348

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

Restaurant Month - Countywide in San Luis Obsipo

Restaurant Month - Countywide in San Luis Obsipo

 
For 30 days in the month of January enjoy 3 Courses for just $30 a person. Enjoy incredible meals at a resonable price. Over 30 destination restaurants throughout SLO County offer a great deal to taste our county cuisine. Each participating local restaurant offers one fixed price three course meal for just thirty dollars per person. Many participating restaurants also offer special paired local wine choices, for an additional charge. SLO County has a large variety of premium restaurants, due to the growing local wine industry, and a vast array of locally grown fresh food. Visit the Restaurant Month Website for a complete list of participating restaurants & sample menus.
Participate in supporting our local businesses and restaurants today!

Date(s): Jan. 2nd – 31st, 2011 Recurring daily
Times: Dinner
Location: County Wide
Event City: County-Wide
Phone: 805.541.8000
Website: http://www.sanluisobispocounty.com/restaurantmonth

When you are ready to buy or sell your home in San Luis Obispo, contact Traci, your local expert.

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

Ian Parkinson our New San Luis Obispo Sheriff

Ian Parkinson's official swearing-in ceremony - will be on Monday, January 3^rd at high noon at the County Government Center which is located at 1055 Monterey Street in San Luis Obispo.  Join him for the ceremony and for light refreshments afterwards.

Ian has been the San Luis Police Captain and has stepped down to be the new city Sheriff.  In recognition of his outstanding service, he was twice awarded the department's “Distinguished Service Award.” In 2004, Parkinson was awarded the City of San Luis Obispo Employee of the Year Award for his outstanding service to the City.

Click here for more information on our new Sheriff.

Click here if you are looking to buy or sell a home in San Luis County.

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

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

How Much Home Can I Afford?

In San Luis Obispo home prices can be higher than the rest of the country. Knowing what you can afford on the income you make is vital to choosing the best property for you and your family. Not only do you factor in the cost of your mortgage, but additional costs such as annual Property Taxes, HOA Fees (for condos), property maintenance, down paymnet and your current debts. Once you can accurately asses your financials, you can work with your Realtor to find the perfect home in your price range.

As a broad generalization, most people can afford to purchase a house worth about three times their total (gross) annual income, assuming a 20% down payment and a moderate amount of other long-term debts, such as car or student loan payments. With no other debts, you can probably afford a house worth up to four or even five times your annual income.

We strive to make it easy for you!
For more information about Real Estate in San Luis Obispo County, please contact Traci Ferguson by E-mail or by phone directly at 805-235-6396.