San Diego Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts in the category - Home Buyinghttps://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/Copyright SanDiegoHomeFinder.com2022-12-28T10:26:44-07:00tag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:14577San Diego Cost of Living: San Diego, CA Living Expenses Guide<img src="/userFiles/532/image/san-diego-cost-of-living.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" alt="San Diego Cost of Living Guide" />
Known for its beautiful landscape and warm weather, more than 1.4 million people call <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-homes-for-sale/">San Diego</a> home. It's the second-largest city in California and the eighth-largest in the country, with the metro community containing more than 3.3 million inhabitants.
Due to the city's robust population and its desirable coastal real estate, the <a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/cost_of_living/city/california/san_diego" target="_blank">cost of living in San Diego</a> is 160% more expensive than the typical U.S. city. That means that, on average, it may cost about $160 to purchase the same amount of goods and services that $100 would buy elsewhere. Using the same standard, the cost of living for California as a whole is around 150%, so higher expenses than average in San Diego may be expected. However, living in San Diego also means access to its many beaches, excellent dining options, outdoor sports in the sunshine, and much more. There's no question that the San Diego lifestyle appeals to many.
Before buying that <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-waterfront-real-estate/">waterfront property on San Diego Bay</a> that you've had your eye on and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/moving-to-san-diego/">moving to San Diego</a>, however, read on to learn a few things about San Diego's cost of living.
Table of Contents
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#housing_in_san_diego">Housing in San Diego</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#median_home_price">Median Home Price</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#median_rent">Median Rent</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#utilities_in_san_diego">Utilities in San Diego</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#food_costs_in_san_diego">Food Costs in San Diego</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#groceries">Groceries</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#restaurants">Restaurants</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#san_diego_transportation">San Diego Transportation</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#san_diego_health_care">San Diego Health Care</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#san_diego_child_care">San Diego Child Care</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#entertainment_in_san_diego">Entertainment in San Diego</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#salaries_in_san_diego">Salaries in San Diego</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#find_your_home_in_san_diego">Find Your Home in San Diego</a>
Housing in San Diego
Although costs across the board are more expensive than the typical U.S. city, these expenses are not uniform. For example, residents will pay 179.1% more for housing. The median home cost for the community is $645,000, compared to $231,000 across the country. Homes in the area have appreciated by 55.9% in the last decade, compared to the national average of 27.4%. That's potentially good news for new homeowners that want to make sure the investment is safe.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-housing-costs.png" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" alt="Housing Costs in San Diego" />
Renters make up about 48.5% of the community, so around half of the residents live in properties they own. Only about 6.9% of houses are considered vacant, much less than the typical U.S. city at 12.2%. This higher housing demand naturally means higher prices.
Median Home Price
Like most communities, the median home price varies based on many factors. Those looking to buy a home at a certain price range would be well-advised to consider several different neighborhoods. For example, in the city's southeast area, the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-encanto/">Encanto neighborhood</a> sometimes has homes for sale for between $620,00 and $750,000, making it relatively affordable. Median prices in Nestor are also sometimes lower than other San Diego areas.
Emerald Hills is also a great community for more affordable homes, with prices that may range from $419,000 to $750,000. Those who prefer the bustling world of a dense urban environment may love living in a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/">Downtown San Diego condo</a>. Homes downtown have a median cost of around $572,000.
Median Rent
New residents who wish to rent or aren't ready to purchase a home can find a wide variety of rental properties in the community. Studio apartments within the city average about $1,450 a month, but residents can save money by living in the metro area for around $1,330. For comparison, the typical cost for a studio apartment in the U.S. is about $820.
A one-bedroom apartment in San Diego costs about $1,620 a month. Two-bedroom apartments within the city may cost residents about $2,110 each month, compared to around $1,940 in the metro community. Adding a third bedroom can increase the rent to about $3,020 each month, nearly twice the national rate of around $1,600. The largest four-bedroom rentals cost about $3,700 monthly. Moving to the outlying areas of the region might still require about $3,400.
Utilities in San Diego
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-utilities.jpg" alt="Utility Costs in San Diego" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />Where housing costs may be much more expensive than the typical U.S. community, <a href="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/apartment-search-2/money/apartment-utilities-breakdown/" target="_blank">utility costs</a> are roughly the same. New residents can expect to pay about 3% more to enjoy basic resources such as electricity and water. Among other factors, San Diego's mild weather helps residents avoid the hefty seasonal costs that happen in colder places. The <a href="https://www.electricitylocal.com/states/california/san-diego/" target="_blank">average monthly electricity bill</a> for San Diego residents is about $88.
Water and sewerage costs are also a necessary part of a resident's budget. New residents can expect to pay about $80 for their water bill each month. The rate for sewer service may add about $52. <a href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/business/technology/sd-fi-internet-prices-20170730-story.html" target="_blank">Costs for internet service</a> vary widely across the community depending on the data speed and service provider. Considering the major companies, the average monthly costs range from $50–$60.
Cell phone plans in the area are available at a variety of ranges. The most affordable plans start at about $40 each month, but most residents pay about $72 for <a href="https://www.usmobile.com/blog/cut-cell-phone-bill/" target="_blank">mobile phone access</a>. One final cost to consider is homeowners insurance. While many may not consider this cost necessary, it's the best way to protect property from loss. Expect to pay about $905 each year for coverage.
Food Costs in San Diego
Food can be a variable cost in one's budget. Home-cooked meals can be less expensive, but occasional takeout can be a relief on a busy schedule. Sitting down at a restaurant can sometimes be as much about enjoying the ambiance and company as the meal itself.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-food-costs.png" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" alt="Food Costs in San Diego" />
In any case, the best advice is to budget food expenses wisely. It's possible to enjoy delicious food and nights out without spending more than is reasonable.
Groceries
Residents can expect grocery costs to run about 10% more expensive than the typical U.S. city. Depending on household size and individuals' personal tastes, this can add up to quite a bit. As a result, residents wishing to save money may want to prioritize finding discount stores or farmer's markets within the community.
As for the costs related to specific meals, a whole chicken may cost about $11.50. Start by roasting the chicken, then add potatoes ($3 per 5-pound bag), carrots ($1 per pound), and sweet onions for $0.75 each. For breakfast, grate and fry some potatoes, then add large eggs for $4 per dozen and shredded cheese for $4.50.
Restaurants
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-restaurants.jpg" alt="Restaurant Costs in San Diego" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />Most people will want to leave room in their budget for the occasional evening out. Visit <a href="https://www.urbankitchengroup.com/cucina-urbana-bankers-hill/" target="_blank">CUCINA Urbana</a> for a delicious Ricotta Spinach Agnolotti with wild mushroom for $20. Those who prefer seafood may fancy <a href="https://www.eddiev.com/menu-listing/dinner" target="_blank">Eddie V's</a>. Try the Maine Lobster Bisque for $15 or the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake for $22.
Of course, dining out isn't only about enjoying an evening. Sometimes dining out is necessary for busy schedules or a quick pick-me-up. For example, grab an iced coffee on the way to work for $2.63 or order a two-cheeseburger meal for lunch for $6.89.
San Diego Transportation
Transportation is another of those regular costs that most people must include in their budget. Generally, residents can expect to pay about 20% more for travel costs than the typical U.S. city. Fortunately, the average commute time is only about 24 minutes, versus the national average of 26.4.
As for how residents get to work, about 75% drive to work alone. These residents can expect to pay anywhere between $3.51 to $4 for a <a href="https://www.gasbuddy.com/gasprices/california/san-diego" target="_blank">gallon of gas in San Diego</a>, though this price fluctuates. Additionally, drivers in the city may also need about $1,030 a year for <a href="https://quotewizard.com/auto-insurance/san-diego-california" target="_blank">car insurance</a>, more than the national average of $889 and the state average of $841.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-transportation-costs.png" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" alt="Transportation Costs in San Diego" />
Around 9% of residents utilize carpools to get to work, meaning they probably share the above-mentioned costs. Those working from home make up about 7%. Another 4% of workers take mass transit to the job.
The <a href="https://www.sdmts.com/" target="_blank">Metropolitan Transit System</a> operates several forms of public transportation. Bus and trolley service costs about $2.50, but regular riders can save money with monthly passes. Regional routes are $5 and $8 for those living in the broader metro area.
Ridesharing apps like <a href="https://www.uber.com/us/en/price-estimate/" target="_blank">Uber</a> are also options. Traveling from the San Diego Zoo to the International Airport can cost about $11.70.
San Diego Health Care
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-healthcare.jpg" alt="Health Care Costs in San Diego" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />For many people, health care is one of those hidden costs. However, in the case of accidents or unforeseen sickness, these costs can suddenly overcome a budget. It's a good idea to consider these costs as part of any relocation consideration.
Fortunately, people living in San Diego only pay about 89% of the healthcare-related costs of other communities. For example, a <a href="https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/California-San-Diego" target="_blank">visit to the doctor</a> within the city might cost about $120 for a basic checkup. Dental visits are a less expensive at just over $100. Checking a prescription for glasses at the optometrist might cost about $110.
Costs for prescription drugs tend to increase with age, but residents pay about $470 each year on average. For those with furry friends, basic services at the vet may cost about $50. Health insurance premiums average about $590 per month, but subsidies are available to many residents.
San Diego Child Care
Parents of young children may be keenly aware that care during working hours is a high cost. For this reason, potential residents of San Diego should prepare to consider child care in any budget analysis. It's good to have an understanding of the expected cost and the realities of potential options. The following prices do not consider the cost of transportation or time necessary to deliver the child or children each morning.
The first option is child care that is run out of the caregiver's home. San Diego residents can expect these businesses to average about $250 each week for infants and $200 for children at the preschool age. Those willing to pay a little more for formal care may prefer to send their children to child care centers. Infant care at these locations often averages about $350. Care for older children is usually slightly more affordable, depending on the age of the child.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-childcare-costs.png" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" alt="Childcare Costs in San Diego" />
Parents of multiple children may also want to consider nanny services. The average rate in San Diego is about $16.25 an hour. Hiring a nanny to work full-time for a year would cost about $33,800. Sending a single preschool-aged child to a daycare center for a year may cost about $15,600, assuming $300 per week for 52 weeks. That means any parent or guardian with more than one child may actually pay a similar or lower amount to hire a caregiver at home.
Entertainment in San Diego
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-entertainment.jpg" alt="Entertainment Costs in San Diego" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />Of course, no budget is complete without considering entertainment costs. The last thing new residents want to discover is that they can no longer afford to enjoy their favorite diversions in their new town. So make sure to add the 7.75% combined sales tax rate.
San Diego has a plethora of free or very low-cost activities. Walking around <a href="https://www.balboapark.org/" target="_blank">Balboa Park</a>, one may find several art pieces, gardens, and other botanical wonders. Those who love the water or beach can enjoy Mission, Pacific, and Coronado beaches for free. Residents can find miles of shoreline and boardwalks full of scenery, restaurants, and specialty shops with all three options.
Those who don't mind spending money can visit the world-famous <a href="https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo and Safari</a> to see more than 800 animal species, with tickets starting at $62 or $120 for both the zoo and safari. Sports fans have a wide variety of teams to enjoy, including the <a href="https://www.mlb.com/padres/tickets/single-game-tickets" target="_blank">San Diego Padres</a> baseball team. Tickets generally start at $26.50.
Lovers of live music also have several options. Visit the <a href="https://musicboxsd.com/" target="_blank">Music Box</a> for local artists and national acts. Tickets for some of the most famous singers and bands globally are as low as $19.
Salaries in San Diego
One final consideration for the community is salary. After all, it's impossible to understand the true impact of the cost of living without considering the expected paycheck. The per capita income for the community is about $37,000, which is more than the national rate at $31,000. Household income is also higher than the U.S. average at $72,000 vs. $58,000. The average salary in San Diego is about $66,000.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-salary.png" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" alt="Salary Cost Breakdown in San Diego" />
Architects and engineers are among the highest-paid occupations at about $86,000 annually, followed by computer and math jobs at $83,000. Legal professionals make a respectable $80,000 each year, followed by health practitioners with $79,000. The income tax rate for the community is 9.3%, which is higher than the U.S. average rate of 4.6%.
The unemployment rate is about 6.6%, 0.6% higher than the U.S. average.
The minimum wage for the community is $14 per hour.
Find Your Home in San Diego
With the beautiful climate and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-economy/" title="San Diego Economy">strong local economy</a>, the growth in San Diego is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. Therefore, prospective residents would be wise to visit the community and see the breathtaking scenery, beach lifestyle, and bustling entertainment landscape. San Diego could be a great place to call home.
2022-12-12T13:05:00-07:002022-12-28T10:26:44-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:18185Modern Décor: Tips & Ideas for Interior Design<img src="/userFiles/532/image/modern-interior-design-ideas.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Modern-Style Design Ideas" />
When it comes to home decor, the modern style is one of the most popular options. People who own <a title="San Diego Modern Style Homes For Sale" href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-modern-homes/">modern-style homes</a> can mirror the striking common characteristics of modern architecture on the inside of their houses by sticking to a few interior design tips.
Ultimately, the most essential elements of modern interior design are simplicity, functionality, and industrialism. Using these primary ideas allows the home's unique design to speak for itself while still leaving room for vibrant, personal touches.
Channel your internal interior designer and keep reading to learn about the best modern decor and style ideas.
Modern vs. Contemporary: What's the Difference?
When discussing interior design styles, modern and contemporary often come up together. Although these styles share some similarities, they also have several key differences. Modern design refers to a style that was popularized in the early 20th century that is characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and a focus on functionality. <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/contemporary-style-101" title="What is Contemporary Design?" target="_blank">Contemporary design</a>, on the other hand, is ever-evolving and can be defined as the current trends in interior design.
While modern design often features muted colors and minimal decor, contemporary interiors are more vibrant and eclectic. Contemporary design is also more likely to incorporate synthetic materials, like plastic or steel, while modern furniture tends to prefer natural materials like wood or stone.
Now that you understand the difference between modern and contemporary, you can confidently design your home's interior in a style that suits you.
Minimalism Is Essential to Modern Style
Minimalism is at the heart of any well-designed modern home. This practice requires an emphasis on clean lines and a lack of clutter to <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/calming-interior-design-tips/">make a room feel calm</a> without distractions.
You don't need a lot of flashy accessories to achieve a modern look; in fact, too many extra details can detract from the modern aesthetic. The goal of minimalism is to highlight the form of the room rather than the items it holds.
When choosing items for a modern-style room, select ones with clean lines, unique textures, and, most importantly, a clearly defined function. Functionality and minimalism go hand-in-hand. Minimalism means limiting items to only those that serve a purpose. Before purchasing anything, people should ask themselves if they'll be able to use an item every day.
If the answer is "no," then the item probably doesn't belong in a modern-style home. From furniture to wall art, usefulness should be prioritized over appearances when choosing elements for a modern-style home. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/high-roi-smart-home-upgrades/">Smart tech home upgrades</a> are ideal for modern design because they can be stored out of sight, providing the best of functionalism and minimalism.
Geometric Designs Are Naturally Beautiful
In the spirit of highlighting clean lines and natural forms, geometric designs are another essential component of <a href="https://stauntonandhenry.com/blogs/news/curves-interior-design" target="_blank">modern interior design</a>. Geometric designs can be used in any room of the house. Kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms all have opportunities to showcase the natural beauty of simple shapes.
The term "geometric designs" might conjure images of abstract and even bizarre forms. However, that's not quite what this means in the field of modern design.
Geometric designs are shapes that have a mathematical or scientific basis. They are often used in art and architecture to create clean, symmetrical lines and shapes. Some standard geometric designs include circles, squares, triangles, and hexagons.
Examples of functional items with geometric designs include:
Floating shelves with geometric patterns
Art-deco lighting fixtures
Modular origami storage pieces
Rugs, pillows, and artwork should reflect and complement the geometric designs of the other fixtures in the room. Contrasting designs, when used sparingly, can help create a stand-out style.
Choose High-Quality Artwork Over High-Quantity Artwork
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/modern-art-living-room.jpg" alt="Artwork Can Add to the Modern Vibes" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" />A few pieces of modern artwork are essential to modern style home decor. Like modern interior designers, modern artists strive to celebrate natural forms in a cutting-edge style. Modern art is often characterized by its attempt to express the artist's feelings and thoughts about the world instead of reproducing or imitating traditional styles.
When <a href="https://www.mydomaine.com/choosing-art-tips" target="_blank">selecting artwork for a home</a>, homeowners should be sure to choose pieces that reflect their style and interests. It's important to choose art pieces carefully. A piece of art should have a clear function, even if it's purely emotional. Additionally, there shouldn't be too many art pieces in a single room. Too many paintings and sculptures can make a room feel cluttered.
That said, it's still possible to have numerous art pieces in one room. By hanging several small portraits together, homeowners can create the impression of a single, larger piece.
For framing, choose glossy blacks, natural wood, or rustic metals. Anything too ornate will seem out of place.
Modern Furniture Prioritizes Form and Function
Modern furniture should be bold and innovative without sacrificing function. Choosing modern furniture is a great way to further accentuate the clean lines and geometric patterns in a modern-style home.
Establishing contrasts between textures is important, too. Furniture upholstered with wool, cotton, or linen has a rustic appeal that will add an element of warmth to modern spaces. Throw pillows with stylish shapes can add a welcome pop of color.
Modern-style design is all about showing off the natural form of every piece of furniture, so make sure the legs of every sofa, armchair, and coffee table are exposed. Ruffles, skirts, and tassels don't have a place in contemporary home design.
Sleek furniture design with wood, leather, and exposed metal will be a perfect match.
Embrace the Industrial Aesthetic
Embracing an industrial aesthetic is one of the best ways to celebrate the natural form of a home. Exposed brick walls, stone accents, and visible metal components are all welcome in the modern aesthetic.
When it comes to layout, try to keep things as open as possible. Creating too many partitions obscures the industrial style of the home.
Vaulted ceilings can help open up the layout. Tall ceilings with minimalist lighting fixtures help create extra space while highlighting the industrial look. For example, Edison-style lightbulbs dangling with visible wiring blends vintage charm with modern sensibilities.
Concrete flooring is often used in industrial settings to create a hard, durable surface. When used in a home, it can help create an industrial aesthetic upheld from top-to-bottom. Concrete is a versatile material that can be used in various ways to achieve different effects. For example, polished concrete can be sleek and colorful when dyed. Unpolished concrete floors have a more rugged appearance that some modern homeowners prefer. Installing industrial-chic floors is one of the best <a href="https://www.texasrealestatesource.com/blog/high-roi-home-improvements/" target="_blank">home improvement projects for increasing property value</a>.
Design the Modern Home of Your Dreams
The principles of modern interior design are simplicity, minimalism, and functionality. When executed correctly, these principles can result in a stunning and timeless look. Geometric designs are popular among modern style aficionados, as are industrial aesthetics. Art is also an important part of the modern look and should be used sparingly to add interest. Furniture should be low and long for a sleek appearance, and accessories should be kept to a minimum. With these tips in mind, homeowners can create the perfect modern home that will stand the test of time.
2022-10-04T07:00:00-07:002022-10-04T07:53:05-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:18526What Is a Modern House? Modern Home Features You Should Know<img src="/userFiles/532/image/modern-style-characteristics.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Common Characteristics of Modern-Style Homes" />
When thinking of modern architecture, one is likely to think of what is popular today. Yet, designs in home trends are routinely changing and evolving, which makes it challenging to pinpoint what constitutes a modern home in any given era.
Still, there are a few defining characteristics of <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-modern-homes/">modern-style homes</a> that are typical of such projects today. If you're interested in buying or building a modern house, you'll need to first understand a few key characteristics
What Is a Modern House?
Many people think of the present day when they hear the term "<a href="https://www.getty.edu/news/what-is-modern-architecture-anyway/" target="_blank">modern architecture</a>," but the concepts of modern design actually date back about 100 years.
Modernism was a cultural movement that began in the 20th century, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and authenticity. These values were reflected in the design of everything from furniture to buildings, and they continue to influence many new construction homes today. Additionally, the directly contrasted 19th century design styles that catered towards maximalism and flair.
Modernism manifests in residential architecture via clean lines, open floor plans, and a focus on functionality. Modern homes also use natural materials like wood and stone, and they often incorporate large windows to let in lots of natural light.
Modern Vs. Contemporary
When defining modern homes, it's important to note the differences between modern and contemporary design. There's plenty of overlap between modern homes and contemporary architecture. However, the key difference is that "contemporary" refers to the present day, while "modern" refers to the past era defined above.
Contemporary homes borrow characteristics of modern architecture and blend them with state-of-the-art design to create something unique yet familiar. Home buyers today will often see modern-style homes with contemporary designs like <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/sustainable-technology-in-home-construction/">sustainable construction</a>, <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/energy-efficienty-home-improvements-san-diego/">energy-efficient home upgrades</a>, and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/high-roi-smart-home-upgrades/">smart tech integrations</a>.
Expansive Open Floor Plans
A defining trait of modern interior design in homes is an open-concept floor plan. This layout allows occupants to feel "together" without totally sacrificing privacy. For example, a partial wall or open bar counter may divide the living room from the kitchen, allowing for chatting between rooms. This is also excellent for family gatherings and entertaining guests, as everyone can move about and visit each other with ease.
By eliminating some of the walls in a traditional-style home, rooms receive more natural lighting that creates an airy feel. The open floor plan further emphasizes a modern look with a feeling of simplicity and openness.
Neutral Color Palettes
The current modern-style designs call for more neutral colors and minimalism. This is particularly the case on the exterior, where lighter and more earthy tones are dominant through natural materials.
Practically all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-san-diego-neighborhoods-with-modern-style-homes/">neighborhoods with modern-style homes</a> will favor materials like concrete, brick, metals, or stone in hues of grey, beige, and white. Some feature wood siding to employ texture to draw one's focus to the unique architecture of a modern-style home. In essence, less is more to stay in tune with their simplistic layout.
Interiors can be a bit bolder, especially when it comes to furnishings, wall art, and decorative rugs. Pops of bright colors on the trim and accent walls can bring life to neutral walls without being too overwhelming. Owners should use caution to avoid going overboard with splashy colors that can negate the open-concept floor plan and layout of a modern-style home.
Geometric Shapes and Clean Lines
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/modern-exterior.jpg" alt="Modern Homes are Simple in Shape" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" />Unlike cottages and colonial homes, modern-style architecture tends to be free of arches, ornate columns, window shutters, and outlandishly shaped features. Instead, they are designed with straight lines complemented by basic geometrical shapes both inside and out.
Modern design also favors the presence of strong vertical and horizontal components. These designs intend to create a sense of harmony with the home's natural surroundings and landscaping.
The aim of <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-modern-interior-design-ideas/">modern home interior design</a> is all about simplification with an emphasis on function. They often lack unnecessary frills and invoke a space that is calming and welcoming. That being said, some owners may desire a bit of high-tech installations that allow them to enjoy some perks of smart homes.
The Use of Traditional Materials
Modern homes take advantage of the presence of those hues that are common in natural materials. Concrete, wood, stone, steel and environmentally friendly native materials are commonly employed for exterior siding, beams and built-in shelving.
Natural materials make a statement that resembles the features of a Craftsman-style home, yet blends modern lines and shapes that still make a bold statement. These homes are reflective of past trends while keeping an eye on the future.
Again, staying in tune with nature relies on using eco-friendly materials, so many buyers attempt to work with a builder in new construction home situations that goes the extra distance to secure locally and regionally sourced materials whenever possible.
Large Windows are a Must
Modern homes are graced with numerous windows, many being floor to ceiling. Some even take up an entire wall to allow for an abundance of natural lighting in the home and can merge the outdoor spaces with the home's interior living space. The whole space feels brighter without relying solely on artificial lighting throughout daytime hours.
Modern house design makes the most of windows and glass, but owners will want to ensure the installation of high-quality panes. Consider Low-E glass, dual panes, automatically tinting windows, and thermal-grade window coverings to keep heating and cooling from escaping the home.
Is a Modern-Style Home a Good Choice to Invest In?
Home shoppers looking for a home with a spacious and airy feel with an open floor plan will appreciate what modern-style architecture brings. These homes usually have large, oversized windows and materials from the natural world, expressed with a minimalist direction. If this sounds like a dream home, start giving modern-style homes on the market a serious look.
2022-09-22T08:53:00-07:002022-10-25T12:54:47-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:20178Low Rise Condos vs. Mid-Rise vs. High-Rise: What's Best For You?<img src="/userFiles/532/image/high-vs-low-rise.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="High-Rise vs. Low-Rise Condos" />
Condominium communities are widely popular in major cities and are gaining a stronghold amid suburbs and moderately sized towns. Condos appeal to many people, including first-time buyers, those looking to downsize, and anyone investing with a budget.
Buying a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/" title="Downtown San Diego Condos For Sale">condo</a> raises the question of whether a low-rise, mid-rise, or high-rise condo best fits the buyer's lifestyle and preferences. Discover the best condo community for your budget and desired lifestyle by learning about the difference between low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise building classifications.
Differences Between High-Rise, Low-Rise & Mid-Rise Condos
The difference between each style of condo building comes down to the number of stories.
Low-Rise Condo Height Range: 1 - 4 stories
Mid-Rise Condo Height Range: 5 - 9 stories
High-Rise Condo Height Range: 10 or more stories
These ranges may vary from area to area based on the zoning regulations in that area. There are pros and cons to all types of condos. Understanding the general framework of building classifications can help you make a more informed decision when buying a condo. Take a look at the benefits of each to help get closer to finding which kind of property might be the better choice for your home investment.
What to Love about Low-Rises
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While taller buildings often thrust owners into the excitement of the city core, low-rise condos are often the preference of those who prefer a smaller, quieter community. They offer a few perks worth considering when shopping for a condo. Here are some key points buyers who opt for low-rise condos can enjoy.
Those who enjoy a smaller community will adore low-rise condo living. These neighborhoods tend to have more character and personality. Furthermore, it's easier for residents and management to pay attention to the property's condition versus a large high-rise community, meaning renovations and improvements are more feasible in low-rise condos.
Because the community is smaller, owners will likely encounter neighbors much more easily than they would when living in high-rise apartments that can often have hundreds of residents. Tenants often embrace their community and make friends with neighbors. These efforts are simplified when there aren't hundreds of individuals to contend with in the neighborhood.
Another benefit of living in a low-rise is that they are often in quieter parts of the city or the suburbs, usually equating to a calmer atmosphere. This makes it easier to relax and have more access to the community's shared amenities and common areas.
Speaking of amenities, there are often many conveniences in a low-rise condo development. This is because they are laid out with more open space between connected units and expansive common space centrally. Building residents can enjoy additional advantages such as:
Clubhouses
Communal kitchens
Fitness centers
Swimming Pools & spas
Laundry rooms
Additional parking
Of course, amenities will vary between properties, and luxury low-rise condos may offer more private amenities.
Low-rises are often close to neighborhood streets, so it simplifies getting to and from the home to the car. Some communities may be proximal to a few conveniences within walking or biking distance.
Benefits of the High-Rise Life
Wondering if you'd prefer a high-rise or low-rise condo? A high-rise condo building can have numerous advantages that other condo options may not typically have. High-rises are often in the most desirable locations but come at higher prices.
Due to a denser population than in the suburbs, owners might have reduced travel times to nearby shopping, dining, attractions, and employment. It may be possible to get to places without a car in walkable and bike-friendly communities. The most luxurious high rise developments might even feature on-site concierge services.
One of the primary appeals of living in a high-rise condominium is their tendency to offer <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-high-rise-condos-with-unbelievable-skyline-views/" title="4 High-Rise Condo Buildings with Amazing San Diego Skyline Views">stunning views of the city</a> and landscapes below. Making use of floor-to-ceiling windows and open floor plans is typical in high-rise condos, allowing occupants to soak in glorious sunrises and sunsets while having a bird's eye view of the neighborhood.
While low-rise condos may only feature flights of stairs, a high-rise condo community will almost always have at least one elevator for residents to use. Some larger properties have several <a href="https://champion-elevator.com/news/freight-elevator-vs-service-elevator/" target="_blank">service elevators and freight elevators</a> to ease moving or replacing furniture when needed. Choosing a community with multiple elevators will help you <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/how-to-move-into-a-high-rise-condo/">easily move into a high-rise building</a>.
Another excellent component of living in a high-rise community is that they will likely have a private maintenance team on staff. High-rise condo owners won't need to go far or make several calls for repair requests should an emergency arise like a busted pipe or HVAC failure.
What Is a Mid-Rise Condo?
For many people, a mid-rise condominium presents the perfect compromise between the sky-high luxury high-rise buildings and the grounded accessibility and affordable prices of low-rise buildings.
There are several reasons you might want to consider mid-rises over other types of housing.
Like shorter buildings, mid-rise condos are typically less expensive than highrises. The lower scale of mid-rise buildings accommodates stringent zoning regulations in cities where high-rise buildings aren't allowed. In this sense, they provide the best possible views and provide desirable housing in denser urban areas.
Other amenities found in mid-rise condominium communities include private balconies, resort style pools, secure parking garages, and in-building elevators.
Low, Mid or High? Which Condo Building Is Right For You?
The only question is, "How high in the sky do you want to live?" High- and medium-rise condominiums will provide best-in-town views while garden-style apartments can be more convenient and accessible. Buyers should also consider their available budget and desired lifestyle before deciding on a condominium complex. Taking personal tours of both condo types and peeking at the amenities is sure to help in making a final decision.
2022-07-11T11:54:00-07:002022-07-12T09:49:07-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:18944Condo Decorating Ideas You Need to Know Before Moving<img src="/userFiles/532/image/maximize-condo-space.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Design Ideas to Maximize Space in a Condo" />
Everybody can all benefit from a little <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/condo-buyers-guide-for-2021-2022/">guidance when buying a condo</a>. Whether your <a title="Downtown San Diego Condos For Sale" href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/">condo</a> is a rental investment or your first home, you'll want to get creative when decorating. Choosing the best furniture, painting your condo, and utilizing clever storage techniques are all ways you can create a unique look. Keep reading for condominium decorating ideas that will transform your space!
Choosing Furniture: Go Big, Go Multi-Purpose
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/bench-with-drawers.jpg" alt="Furniture with Drawers Eliminates the Need for Separate Drawers" style="margin-bottom: 30px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Choosing the furnishings is a great way to start decorating your new unit.
When you're dealing with a smaller space, sometimes bigger furniture items look and function better than more petite ones.
An extensive collection of smaller furniture pieces can make the limited space appear cluttered and "full." A better visual presentation uses a few larger furniture pieces, which makes the space look more open. One stately piece of furniture can be a focal point in a room, with the rest of the pieces enhancing it.
Placing a larger furniture piece against a blank wall is yet another way to visually create a larger, more open space in the living room.
Space between pieces of furniture is also essential. If pieces of furniture are next to each other or have an end table connecting them, the room looks more full. Space between furniture pieces opens the room up, which is the goal of designing in tight spaces.
Don't forget dual-use furniture pieces with hidden storage. A stylish couch can easily double as a bed, and so forth.
A "captain's bed" for the bedroom with drawers beneath the mattress can eliminate the need for a dresser or bureau in your bedroom. There are also many options for beds or futons that fold away when not in use. Some can even be folded away to reveal a separate piece of furniture, such as an at-home work desk.
Coffee tables, couches, and other furniture pieces that have hidden compartments underneath them can be found. Utilize pieces like this for extra storage around the condo to reduce clutter and keep a clean space. With fewer "things" out in a condo, it leaves more space overall.
Foldaway tables and chairs can only take up an inch of horizontal space when they're not being used for meals. Another thing to remember is knowing when a condo has enough furniture. There is always a point where a design layout can cross the line from a minimalist approach to taking up too much space
Storage Enhances Style
There's no amount of decorating that can make a cluttered, disorganized condo look great. Be strategic with your storage solutions to
The air space inside a condo can be woefully underused, and the best way to maximize that space is by thinking vertically. Every room in a condo will have some vertical space that can become part of the overall design.
Several design principles come into play when decorating a condo space vertically (and creating more storage). Tall and narrow shelving, for instance, takes up less space than wide and short furniture or storage pieces. Depending on the ceiling height in an individual condo, tall shelving can create more storage space in the end.
Another design concept that comes into play is that items displayed on the wall don't take up floor space. Think of a tall bookcase in a living room as one example. It's a great place to store books, but this type of shelving can also be a display for some of the owner's items. This can eliminate the need for additional furniture pieces to display items.
Finally, vertical design concepts will naturally draw the viewer's eyes upward. This can make a living space appear larger than it is. It's like an optical illusion, but it works!
Wall Mirrors & Art Make Great Accent Pieces
The walls inside a condo have more surface area than the floors, so it makes sense to exploit that space when adding decorative accessories. Artwork and mirrors can come into play here.
Smaller pieces can make the wall space look larger when it comes to artwork. More prominent works of art that take up more space can make a room look smaller. Works of art that match the paint color of a room can create a "floating" effect that visually enlarges the space.
Finally, hanging mirrors from the walls can open a space up further. Try to place mirrors on walls that face the condo's windows.
Using these techniques will establish a cohesive and inviting appearance in your condo.
How to Paint Your Condo to Complement Your Furniture
Painting can make or break the aesthetic you're going for with your furnishings. Some shades will integrate beautifully with your furniture and decorations, while others will seem out of place.
Lighter colors always work to open up an interior space. Light colors reflect natural light better, making any room look more open and expansive. Plus, light colors offer various choices, so owners aren't stuck with only a handful of options. Pale shades of blue, pink, gray, and other colors make a room look more open as natural light from outside reflects off it.
Remember to <a href="https://www.hunker.com/13403187/how-to-calculate-wall-area-if-you-know-floor-area" target="_blank">use your floor area to calculate wall space</a> before painting.
Designing Interior Space in a Condo is an Adventure
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/buying-a-condo-what-do-you-actually-own/">What do you actually own when you buy a condo</a>? Everything! As a condo owner, you have complete creative freedom so it's up to you to make the home your own. The space can be maximized by following these design ideas, so remember to have fun and experiment. Don't be afraid to change strategies or swap furniture pieces if one method isn't working as planned.
2022-07-01T08:30:00-07:002022-07-01T08:54:10-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:20448High Rise Condo Moving: 4 Tips to Move into a High-Rise Building<img src="/userFiles/532/image/high-rise-moving-tips.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Tips for Moving into a High-Rise Condo" />
Moving into a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/" title="Downtown San Diego Condos For Sale">high-rise condo</a> is more challenging than moving into most other homes. While a high-rise condo has many advantages, like being in a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-high-rise-condos-with-unbelievable-skyline-views/" title="High-Rise Condo Buildings With Amazing San Diego Skyline Views">building with incredible views</a>, the tradeoff involves a longer move-in process with an elevator, size limitations, building rules and restrictions, parking, and other issues. It takes a bit of logistical planning and "elbow grease" to successfully pull off moving into a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/low-rise-condo-mid-rise-condo-high-rise-condo-differences/">high-rise condo than a low-rise condo</a>. Read on to learn four tips for streamlining moving into a high-rise condo.
Be Aware of Moving Restrictions in Your Building
Being neighborly is a big part of living in a condo community. <a href="https://emspm.com/what-is-a-condominium-association/" target="_blank">Condo associations</a> (COAs) establish rules and restrictions on moving in to make the process as smooth as possible while respecting the rights of others living in the building.
A condo building will have a loading dock or designated space for people moving in or out. Condo owners will often need to reserve these locations ahead of time and can only use them at those set times. It's a great idea to walk the move-in route at least once before moving in to gauge how far the furniture and belongings will need to be moved.
Because many people have moved in and out of the building, management will typically have a set process. Learning it and reserving everything needed ahead of time will ensure a successful move-in.
Make Sure Everything Will Fit in the Elevator
Condo owners will need to reserve an elevator ahead of time, just like the parking or loading dock. New buyers can usually reserve either a freight elevator or one of the main elevators for moving in, depending on the building's policies. Sometimes an elevator will have a key that can stop the elevator in place on the ground floor and the move-in floor. Someone moving in should find out where to access that key and when to pick it up.
The move-in paperwork from the condo owner's association will likely have the dimensions of the freight elevator printed in it. Condo buyers should measure their bulky furniture to ensure it will fit through the elevator's doors and that the doors can fully close.
Couches are usually the largest items that movers must wrestle in and out of the freight elevator. Don't forget to measure door widths and turning angles if necessary to ensure everything will fit. If something is too large for the elevator, hallways, or doorway to the condo, nothing can be done about it. Selling large furniture items is sometimes necessary before moving into a condo because they simply won't fit.
Measure Everything & Decide Your Layout
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/measure-walls.jpg" alt="It's Important to Measure Your Condo To Make Sure Your Items Will Fit" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" />
Compared to other housing types, a condo can have a small or uncommon floor plan. If the plans for a unit don't have exact measurements, it's time to do some work with a tape measure. Room dimensions, door widths, ceiling heights, and even closet space dimensions should be measured and written down. These figures can measure furniture and other items before the move-in.
One thing to remember is the order in which movers should bring items into the condo. Which room is the furthest distance from the front door? Movers should bring in items for that room first. Items for the living room, which is probably closest to the front door, should be brought in last to prevent movers from tripping over objects or having to lift things over boxes and furniture that would otherwise be in the way.
People often have to <a href="https://www.budgetdumpster.com/resources/how-to-declutter-your-home.php" target="_blank">declutter their current homes</a> before moving into a condo, and space will likely be at a premium. Plan to sell or donate some furniture or other items ahead of time if their dimensions won't work in the condo. Remember that new items with smaller sizes can always be purchased later.
Professional Movers Might be the Way to Go
Moving can be stressful, physically exhausting, and time-consuming. Sometimes it's best to hand the heavy lifting to a professional moving company. The chances are that professional moving companies in the area of the condo building have moved others in and out. They know the best routes to use in the building, move-in procedures, what insurance or permits are required, and so on. They also have specialized equipment and dollies for moving even the bulkiest items.
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/movers-and-packers-cost/" target="_blank">Professional movers can be expensive</a>, but sometimes it is worth shelling out the extra cash when moving into a high-rise. Another thing to remember is that some companies will hire out movers by the hour. They can be lifesavers if hired to move the heaviest items.
Make the Condo Move-in Day as Stress-Free as Possible
While moving into a new high-rise condo can seem daunting, remember that many others have accomplished it. Making a plan of action, downsizing, and enlisting the help of professional movers if needed can <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/moving-tips-and-timeline/">make moving less stressful</a> and help prevent any problems on move-in day.
2022-06-29T10:03:00-07:002022-07-28T05:32:19-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:191874 High-Rise Condo Buildings with Amazing San Diego Skyline Views<img src="/userFiles/532/image/high-rise-san-diego-skyline.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="San Diego High-Rise Condos with Incredible Skyline Views" />
There is no shortage of incredible views to be had in the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-homes-for-sale/" title="San Diego Homes For Sale">city of San Diego</a>, California, with San Diego Bay, Mission Bay, and the Pacific Ocean all on the city's western edge. To get the best possible views, residents have to move upward. High-rise <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/" title="Downtown San Diego Condos For Sale">condos in downtown San Diego</a> offer the most stunning views of the city skyline, the water, and nearby hills' greenery. Read on to discover four high-rise condos offering the best skyline views in San Diego, California.
Pacific Gate
The Pacific Gate condos on Tenth Avenue are an architectural wonder. The building was constructed with no exterior drywall and has a 41-story glass wall offering completely unobstructed views from every unit. Pacific Gate is the only condo building in San Diego to boast this feature.
Views to the west and south of Pacific Gate can see San Diego Bay and Coronado Island. Exceptional city views are available from north- and east-facing units. Pacific Gate is so close to the water that residents can smell the ocean's saltwater from their balconies.
Pacific Gate has a 45-foot private yacht that residents can reserve for four to eight hours. The yacht is captained at all times, and there is also a private fleet of luxury cars available for residents to use.
Dogs are welcome at Pacific Gate. The tower has a 1,400-square-foot dog run, one of the first of its kind in San Diego.
The many additional luxury amenities include a pool, a garden area, a rec room, a fitness center, a movie theater, and a chef concierge.
The Metropolitan
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-skyline.jpg" alt="The Metropolitan Has Some of the Best Views of San Diego Condos" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" />
The views from the Metropolitan are considered some of the best out of all the condos in San Diego. The front of the building is right on Harbor Drive and next to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/padres/ballpark" target="_blank">Petco Park</a>. Its proximity to the water means that every unit has unobstructed views of the city, San Diego Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
The Metropolitan is a 22-story building with four condo units per floor. Only the upper 10 floors of the building contain condo residences, offering incredible views for owners. Every unit is considered a luxury penthouse.
The units have Sub-Zero and other luxury brand appliances. Every unit has a private terrace, soaring 10-foot-high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling glass, making the views even better.
Residents have private entrances and elevators guarded by 24-hour security. There's a concierge service, room service, laundry, and dry cleaning. Owners also have access to a private rooftop pool, a spa, a recreation area, and a fitness center.
Dreaming about seeing the San Diego skyline from your high-rise condo? View all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/">San Diego condos for sale</a>.
Park One
The Park One building sits on the crest of Banker's Hill in San Diego. Its elevated construction provides some of the best views in the city of Balboa Park, the city skyline, the mountains, and San Diego Bay. The views from the lower floor are partially obstructed by the trees in Balboa Park but are still spectacular.
Park One is 14 stories tall, with one unit per floor. The unobstructed views from this building's upper floors are comparable to a 40th-floor condo unit in the downtown area because there's nothing nearby to block the line of sight.
With a single unit on each floor, every residence has a private foyer just off the elevator. The condos themselves are all 2,280 square feet, with dual master suites.
Park One has an underground parking garage and two reserved spaces for every unit. Each unit also has a balcony, a side-by-side washer and drier, and an internal trash chute.
Park One is in an excellent location, just a few minutes from some of <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/popular-attractions-san-diego/">San Diego's top attractions</a>, including the <a href="https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a> and Balboa Park. Some of the city's best restaurants, art galleries, museums, and theaters are not far away in the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/hillcrest-san-diego-homes-for-sale/" title="Hillcrest Homes For Sale">Hillcrest neighborhood</a>.
Bayside
Bayside condos are close to San Diego Bay on the Pacific Highway. West-facing units on the upper floors have unobstructed views of the bay, Coronado Island, and the Pacific Ocean. North-facing units have spectacular San Diego skyline views.
The building has 36 floors of residences, with the top six floors reserved as penthouses. The lower floors have three to four units each, with some condo units as large as 3,226 square feet. Each residence has a large private balcony and floor-to-ceiling glass to enhance the natural light and views. The elegant interiors all have hardwood floors and luxury appliances.
Bayside's amenities include a private wine tasting lounge, a resort-style pool, a sauna and steam room, and a fitness room. The front desk has 24-hour security and concierge service. Owners also have access to a private movie theater and a community library.
Exceptional Views Are What Condo Living Is All About
One of the main <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/low-rise-condo-mid-rise-condo-high-rise-condo-differences/">differences between high-rise and low-rise condos</a> is that high-rises put the owners above the city to relax and take in the view when they're at home. Living in a condo should feel like a resort vacation, and these high-rises in San Diego offer that sort of luxurious experience.
2022-05-04T09:07:00-07:002022-07-28T05:34:22-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:19086Condo or Single-Family Home? 5 Reasons Condo Ownership May Be For You<img src="/userFiles/532/image/condo-vs-sfh.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Why Buy a Condo Instead of a Single-Family Home?" />
Living in <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/" title="Downtown San Diego Condos For Sale">downtown condos</a> comes with many perks, but how do condominiums stack up against single-family homes? From lower costs and fewer maintenance tasks to luxury amenities and convenient locations, there are many reasons to invest in condos for sale. Common myths about condos may lead people to believe that they're less lucrative than single-family homes, but expert info suggests that they can be an excellent option for first-time buyers and seasoned investors alike. Keep reading to learn about five reasons that condos may be a better choice for some homebuyers than a single-family home.
Condos Can Be Less Expensive
Generally, condos cost less than single-family homes to purchase, insure, and maintain. Condos in some markets may be pricier than single-family homes in others, but they are usually the less expensive option within the same market.
Condos come with a lower price tag than houses because they usually have less square footage and fewer spaces the owner has responsibility for maintaining and insuring. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/buying-a-condo-what-do-you-actually-own/">Ownership boundaries for condo investors</a> only include the unit's interior and perhaps an outdoor terrace, while the condo's COA handles landscaping and insurance for the building's roof and exterior walls.
Meanwhile, the owner of a single-family home must maintain and buy insurance for their entire house, including its roof, foundation, and any other structures on the property, such as a detached garage or in-law suite. Furthermore, single-family homes often come with higher property taxes because of their additional property. Thus, condos can save homeowners money upfront and over time.
Condos Require Less Maintenance
Maintenance responsibilities are one of the most significant differences between owning a condo instead of a single-family home. Condos come with drastically fewer maintenance responsibilities relative to single-family homes because the condo association handles the condo's exterior, shared spaces, and some <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/l/limited-common-elements.asp" target="_blank">limited common elements</a>.
While condo owners must maintain the interior of their units, owners of single-family homes are responsible for that and much more. In addition to the home's interior fixtures and appliances, homeowners must care for their home's exterior and the property it sits on. Maintaining a single-family home can require various tasks, like reshingling the roof, cleaning the gutters, painting the exterior, mowing the lawn, pruning plants, raking leaves, or shoveling snow.
For condos, these tasks are usually the responsibility of the condo association. COA dues go towards paying for this maintenance. Meanwhile, homeowners who don't want to perform these maintenance tasks themselves will need to hire an outside service, which can be more expensive than condo owners sharing the cost. While condo owners don't have as much room to customize as single-family homeowners, they're still free to implement unique <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/condo-design-ideas/" title="4 Condo Decorating Ideas That Save Space & Look Great">condo decorating tips that save space</a>.
Condo Communities Often Have Great Amenities
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/condo-pool.jpg" alt="A Pool is a Popular Condo Amenity" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" />
Community amenities are one of the many perks of condo living. Many condo communities offer on-site clubhouses, shops, and recreational facilities like pools, spas, gyms, tennis courts, golf courses, playgrounds, parks, and trails.
Living in a condo provides quick and easy access to these amenities at a reduced cost compared to living in a single-family home. High-rise condos often boast facilities within the building, with many offering rooftop amenities like pools or gardens where residents can relax while enjoying incredible views. COA dues help pay for these on-site amenities, allowing the community to share the cost of their installation and maintenance.
On the other hand, amenities for single-family homes will vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. Neighborhoods with an established COA may have a great variety of community amenities, but others may not have any. If they want private facilities like a pool or gym on their property, they'll need to fund it and secure any necessary permits on their own. They'll also have the responsibility for maintaining it themselves.
Condos Encourage a Sense of Community
Living in a condo provides excellent opportunities for social interaction due to shared spaces and proximity to neighbors not found in single-family homes.
Shared hallways, parking lots, and mailrooms allow condo residents more opportunities to interact throughout their daily lives. Meanwhile, single-family homes often come with private yards and driveways that create distance between neighbors.
Condo neighborhoods are considerably more dense than neighborhoods comprised of single-family homes. This high density allows for more opportunities to interact and means there are more neighbors to befriend.
Living in a condo can also make it a breeze to find neighbors with similar interests. Community amenities like gyms, pools, and tennis courts provide great opportunities to connect with other residents while getting some exercise and having fun.
Many condos also offer spaces to entertain guests, such as community clubhouses, meeting rooms, and even rooftop terraces or parks. Some of these are always open to the community, while others offer reservations for private events.
Condos Are Often Closer to the Action
In addition to their various on-site amenities, condos often provide quick access to attractions like restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, cultural centers, and recreational facilities.
Many condos are in densely-packed city centers or trendy <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diegos-most-walkable-neighborhoods/">walkable neighborhoods</a>, allowing residents to enjoy many of the <a href="https://socialifestylemag.com/2021/02/the-benefits-of-living-downtown-why-its-worth-it/" target="_blank">benefits of city life</a> without the long commutes associated with suburban living. With plenty of businesses and other attractions just blocks away from many condos, waiting in traffic can become a thing of the past.
Banks, post offices, local restaurants, parks, and more are often just a short walk away from the condo complex. Additionally, these centrally-located condos are rarely far from transportation options like subway stations and bus stops, which can provide access to even more parts of the city.
Meanwhile, single-family home neighborhoods are less likely to be so close to these types of things. These neighborhoods often have fewer attractions within walking distance, which may require a greater reliance on cars and other forms of transportation. This greater distance also tends to result in longer times behind the wheel. However, master-planned neighborhoods typically have access to more amenities.
Choosing the Right Kind of Home
There are many <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/condo-buyers-guide-for-2021-2022/">things to consider before buying a condo</a>. After all, homebuyers want to get the most out of their investment. Condos offer various advantages over single-family homes, but both home types are great choices that appeal to different wants and needs.
2022-04-29T11:39:00-07:002022-07-28T05:28:19-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:19031What Do You Own When You Buy a Condo? Condo Investments Explained<img src="/userFiles/532/image/condo-ownership.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="What Do You Own When You Buy a Condo?" />
Condominium buildings are usually close to the "action" in a city. Most <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/" title="Downtown San Diego Condos For Sale">condos</a> come with spectacular amenities, and they live in proximity to perks like fine dining, concert venues, nightlife, the city's financial district, and more. But what exactly does a condo buyer "own" when purchasing a unit inside one of these buildings? It's not the same as buying a house, where the buyer owns every blade of grass and every fixture on the property. Read on to learn what condo owners actually own when they buy a condo.
What "The Air Space Inside the Condo" Means
When someone buys a condo unit, they typically become non-exclusive owners of particular community property (stairwells, sidewalks, etc.), and then they own "the air space inside the condo." The air space is legally defined in most states as the space between a condo's floor, ceiling, and walls. Condo buyers own the paint on the walls and ceiling, but they don't own the drywall beneath it.
Likewise, a condo owner owns the flooring, whether carpeting, tile, or hardwood, but does not own the subflooring beneath it. Cabinets, appliances, sinks, toilets, and other fixtures are considered inside the air space and are therefore owned by the condo owner, meaning all of these fixtures and features can be changed by the condo owner.
The owner also has part ownership in "<a href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/business/sd-fi-hoa20170311-story.html" target="_blank">exclusive use common areas</a>." An example of this might be a rooftop pool collectively owned by all the building's residents.
"Having an Interest" vs. "Owning:" Why Condo Owners Don't Own the Land
One of the main differences between buying a house versus buying a condo is that condo owners are not landowners. A condo owner is purchasing an "interest" in the condo association that runs the day-to-day operations of the building, similar to a homeowners association. Some associations manage condos, known as <a href="https://homeguides.sfgate.com/condominium-association-1442.html" target="_blank">condominium associations</a> or COAs.
Condominium is a Latin word that means "Owning property together." That's what it is like when someone buys a condo unit. They have an "interest" in the land beneath the building, but the building's association owns the actual land.
Owning an "interest" in a condominium building is similar to owning shares in a tradable corporation. Someone could own 10 percent of the shares in the company, but that does not mean they own 10 percent of the company's merchandise or 10 percent of the company's physical headquarters. The "interest" is not tangible, such as the steel that makes up the building's structure or the land beneath it.
General, Limited, & Exclusive Common Elements
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/condo-balconies.jpg" alt="Condo Elements Fall into Different Ownership Categories" style="margin-bottom: 30px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Three common elements are essential to understand when it comes to shared ownership rights within a condominium building. These are General Common Elements, Limited Common Elements, and Exclusive Common Elements.
General Common Elements: Every condo owner has a shared interest in the general common elements of the building. Elements under this category include the building's lobby, elevators, entrances, hallways, stairwells, etc. Condo owners have access to all general common elements.
<a href="https://www.pullcom.com/newsroom-publications-What-Exactly-is-a-Limited-Common-Element" target="_blank">Limited Common Elements</a>: These are elements of the building that the homeowners association owns, but only some residents are allowed to access. Examples of this might include a rooftop patio or community garden, which only the owners of specific condo units can use. Another example might be a pool or a gym on one floor of the building, which only condo owners on that floor can use.
Exclusive Common Elements: These are specific elements that the homeowners association owns and maintains, but only one condo owner has access to. The most common example would be a balcony accessed through only one condo unit. The HOA owns the balcony and performs the maintenance and upkeep for it, but no one else in the building is allowed to use that balcony.
How to Learn Exactly What You Own
When buying a condo, two things to closely examine are the building map and the <a href="https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/covenants-conditions-restrictions" target="_blank">Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions</a> (usually called a CC&R) document. These explain exactly where the condo unit is, what the buyer is purchasing and will own exclusively, and the General, Limited, and Exclusive Common Elements. This document will cover everything from the smallest fixtures in the condo unit to the HVAC system to the sidewalks outside the building.
Why It's All Important
Condominium owners' legal rights and responsibilities are different from those faced by single-family homebuyers. These things are essential to know so that buyers are not taken advantage of during the buying process. They should know all their property rights, exclusions, and other legal privileges going into the purchase.
A condo owner does not own as many physical "things" as someone who buys a house. This is also part of the <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/buyer-pros-and-cons-of-buying-a-condo/" target="_blank">appeal of condo ownership</a> because the buyer has fewer overall maintenance responsibilities than a homeowner.
Learn These Things Before Buying a Condo
The lifestyle and perks of condo living are a big draw for many buyers. A buyer agent can explain all of the rights and responsibilities of ownership to a potential condo buyer, and each buyer can take the CC&R document to their attorney for review. Some items in the CC&R might even be negotiable, such as access to a specific amenity, so it pays to understand condo ownership's legal ins and outs during the buying process.
2022-04-27T09:40:00-07:002022-04-27T09:44:38-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:185714 San Diego Neighborhoods With Stunning Modern Style Homes <img src="/userFiles/532/image/san-diego-modern-neighborhoods.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Best San Diego Neighborhoods with Modern Homes" />
Modern-style homes are unique in their architectural structure from most other styles. The <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/modern-house-characteristics/" title="Common Characteristics of Modern Architecture">modern style features</a> a lot of exposed metal, concrete, glass, wood, and stone. The homes are designed with simple lines to allow the structure to speak for itself and require minimal <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-modern-interior-design-ideas/" title="5 Best Interior Decor Tips For Modern-Style Homes">interior decorating</a>. The uniqueness of a modern home is part of its appeal. Read on to discover four iconic neighborhoods in San Diego where buyers can find amazing <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-modern-homes/" title="San Diego Modern Homes For Sale">modern homes for sale</a>.
Mission Beach
Mission Beach is an iconic peninsula neighborhood in San Diego and one of the city's most sought-after real estate locations. Because it's a peninsula, homes on both sides of the community have a good chance of having <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-waterfront-real-estate/" title="San Diego Waterfront Homes For Sale">waterfront views</a>. While several condos and apartment buildings are near this oceanfront piece of land, buyers can also find luxury homes in the modern style.
Mission Beach is best known for the beach itself, a popular destination for surfers and sunbathers. The beach is less than a five-minute walk from virtually any property in the neighborhood. There are nearby beach volleyball and basketball courts and a world-famous beachside fitness center. Mission Beach also features some iconic bars for local nightlife, including <a href="http://www.thecomber.com/" target="_blank">The Beachcomber</a>, The Sandbar Sports Grill, and the Wave House.
Luxury modern-style <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/mission-beach-homes-for-sale/" title="Mission Beach Homes For Sale">homes in Mission Beach</a> are likely to have water views, no matter which part of the peninsula they were built on. These homes generally range in price from $1.6 million on the lower end to larger five-bedroom, five-bath homes up to $8 million.
Little Italy
Little Italy is one of the most popular downtown destinations in the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-homes-for-sale/" title="San Diego Homes For Sale">city of San Diego</a>. While buyers won't find any modern-style houses for sale in this neighborhood, many modern condos exist.
The allure of condo living keeps residents close to all lifestyle activities in a bustling area like the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/little-italy-san-diego-condos/" title="Little Italy Condos For Sale">Little Italy community</a>. West-facing condos can feature stunning views of North San Diego Bay, and east-facing units can see Balboa Park and the <a href="https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a> in the distance (provided they are upper units in high-rise condos).
Little Italy is bustling with year-round activities for residents. For example, there's a farmer's market in the neighborhood every Saturday. Annual events include the Little Italy Carnevale, the Sicilian Festival, the Taste of Little Italy restaurant walking tour, and a yearly Stickball Tournament during Labor Day weekend. Little Italy also features a bustling nightlife, many popular clubs and bars, unique downtown shops and boutiques, and several parks.
Purchasing a condo unit in a modern-style building in Little Italy typically starts in the $200,000 range, although these units are likely to be on lower floors. Luxury condos with spectacular views can usually sell for up to $1.2 million.
Dreaming of living in a San Diego modern home? Browse all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-modern-homes/">San Diego modern-style homes for sale</a>.
Gaslamp Quarter
The <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gaslamp-quarter-san-diego-condos/" title="Gaslamp Quarter Homes For Sale">Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood</a> is considered "The Heart of downtown San Diego," but locals refer to it as "the Gaslamp." This neighborhood also features many high-end condos designed with the minimalism of the modern style. This exciting community is one of the best places in the city to catch a rooftop concert or sample dozens of types of international cuisine in its many restaurants.
Gaslamp Quarter is just south of Little Italy, and it's another neighborhood that features a bustling nightlife. The Historic District has 94 historic structures, many of which were built in the Victorian era. Annual events that draw huge crowds to the neighborhood include ShamROCK (for St. Patrick's Day) and Mardi Gras in the Gaslamp. After the area was redeveloped in the 1980s, it now features many eclectic shops and boutiques, concert venues, and art galleries.
Most of the condos in the Gaslamp Quarter feature stunning nighttime views of the city. A modern-style condo on the lower end can usually sell for around $300,000. Buyers can purchase luxury Gaslamp Quarter condos for approximately $800,000.
East Village
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-condos.jpg" alt="The East Village Community has Many Modern Condos" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" />East Village is another iconic downtown San Diego neighborhood. The Gaslamp Quarter borders East Village on the west, and Interstate 5 forms the community's east boundary. East Village is the single largest neighborhood in downtown San Diego, encompassing more than 130 blocks. It features many gorgeous condo buildings that were constructed in the modern style.
Sports fans living in the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/east-village-san-diego-condos/" title="East Village Condos For Sale">East Village community</a> have close access to <a href="https://petcoparkevents.com/" target="_blank">Petco Park</a>, the home field of the San Diego Padres baseball team. East Village is also home to the Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge, the San Diego Central Library, San Diego City College, the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and the NewSchool of Architecture and Design. The neighborhood also has dozens of quirky restaurants and a busy nightlife with bars, pubs, and nightclubs.
The median list price for a modern-style condo apartment in East Village is around $700,000, while a luxury condo can sell for more than $1.3 million.
Many Modern-Style Homes & Condos Await in San Diego
San Diego is a fantastic city to live and work in due to the beautiful year-round climate and access to the Pacific Ocean. The city has seen so much redevelopment and urban renewal since the 1980s that much of it feels "new" — and it is. It's not unusual to find a modern-style home or condo built less than 20 years ago. Buyers will have peace of mind that their investment in a modern luxury property will last for many years to come.
2022-03-22T15:47:00-07:002022-11-22T08:01:03-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:18432Find Spanish Style Homes in These 4 San Diego Neighborhoods<img src="/userFiles/532/image/san-diego-neighborhoods-spanish-style-homes.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Best San Diego Neighborhoods" />
Spanish-style homes were first built in America in the early decades of the 20th century. Also referred to as Mediterranean or Hispanic, these homes borrow their <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/common-characteristics-of-spanish-architecture/">Spanish-style architectural ideas</a> from the first American settlers from Spain. Spanish-style homes are commonplace in states that were once under Spanish rule, such as California, Florida, Arizona, and New Mexico. The modern Spanish-style homes in San Diego bring together the best of old and new designs.
Most Spanish-influenced homes have a common theme: they're rustic, yet sophisticated. This is evident in their timeless style of earthy color palettes, natural materials, clean lines, and layered textures. Many homebuyers love the Spanish style because of its cozy feeling, which makes everyone feel at home. Looking for a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-spanish-homes/" title="San Diego Spanish-Style Homes For Sale">Spanish-style home in San Diego</a> to make your homeowning dreams come true? Keep reading to discover the best San Diego, CA neighborhoods with Spanish-style homes.
Table of Contents
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#kensington">Kensington</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#mission_valley">Mission Valley</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#santaluz">Santaluz</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#la_jolla">La Jolla</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#living_in_neighborhoods_with_spanish-style_homes_in_san_diego,_ca">Living in Neighborhoods With Spanish-Style Homes in San Diego, CA</a>
Kensington
Kensington was established in 1910 by two sisters who owned the land. In 1926, it was further developed by real estate developers. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/kensington-san-diego-homes/" title="Kensington Homes For Sale">Kensington homes</a> became well known for <a href="https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-apr-06-re-guide6-story.html" target="_blank">their unique Spanish Revival style</a>. The neighborhood is located between <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-city-heights/" title="City Heights Homes For Sale">homes in City Heights</a> in Central San Diego and the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-normal-heights/" title="Normal Heights Homes For Sale">Normal Heights neighborhood</a>. It is only a short drive from San Diego Bay and Downtown. Its central location and the small-town community vibe make it a great place to buy a home.
Kensington has a thriving downtown district with numerous shops, restaurants, a gym, a deli, an ice cream parlor, and much more. There are other amenities, such as a library, a playground, a nightclub, and a movie theater.
Most businesses and neighbors don't mind residents walking their dogs, and many restaurants allow pets on their patio or even have treats and water bowls for canine guests. Some of the best dog-friendly restaurants include:
Kensington Cafe
Tanuki
Del's Hideout
Cucina Sorella
The Haven Pizzeria
Working Class
What's more, Kensington is close to Ward Canyon Neighborhood Park, one of the biggest off-leash dog parks in the area.
Mission Valley
Mission Valley was established in 1769 as the first Spanish settlement in California, and it's clear that the architectural influence has stayed around. It serves as a popular entertainment and shopping center for San Diego. Many homebuyers purchase <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-mission-valley/" title="Mission Valley Homes For Sale">Mission Valley homes</a> because of the ease of moving around and easily getting out of the town. Commuting by car is preferred by most residents because of the availability of many major roadways.
The West and East portions of Mission Valley are separated by State Route 163, which links to Interstate 8. The Route is served by Interstate 15, I-5, and Interstate 8. Residents also have the option to commute easily using public means. The San Diego Trolley System has several stops across the area and connects commuters to Downtown and the Blue and Orange Lines.
Thanks to the many roads and easy public commuting, residents can enjoy many of <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/popular-attractions-san-diego/">San Diego's unique attractions</a>. Whether residents are looking for a day at the beach, a fantastic night out, or a way to explore the breathtaking geography, Mission Valley is just 15 to 20 minutes from most of everything anyone would want. It is only a 15-minute drive away from the iconic <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gaslamp-quarter-san-diego-condos/" title="Homes in Gaslamp Quarter">Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood</a>, SeaWorld San Diego, and the San Diego Zoo. Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking in Mission Trails Regional Park or play golf in the Riverwalk Golf Club.
Ready to make a San Diego Spanish home your own? View all the latest <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-spanish-homes/">San Diego Spanish-style homes for sale</a>.
Santaluz
Golf enthusiasts will love living in the Tuscany-inspired and Spanish-Colonial-influenced <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/santaluz-homes-for-sale/" title="Santaluz Homes For Sale">homes in Santaluz</a>. Residents have easy access to the <a href="https://www.thesantaluzclub.com/" target="_blank">Santaluz Club</a>, designed by Rees Jones, a designer who has won several awards for golf course designs throughout the nation. Thanks to this club, there are several recreational amenities inside this <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gated-communities/" title="San Diego Gated Community Homes For Sale">gated community</a>. For instance, residents can visit the spa within the Santaluz Club for massages and numerous treatments or enjoy the lounge and the fantastic relaxing water features. Other outstanding restaurants in the community include the Vineyard Room, Bisto at Santaluz, and the Clubhouse Dining Room.
Santaluz is strategically located. It is close to several cities near San Diego, but it remains within the city limits. It is within a commuting distance of less than an hour to the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-downtown/" title="Downtown San Diego Homes For Sale">Downtown San Diego neighborhood</a>. Thus residents have access to most jobs within the area.
Santaluz is always bustling with fun activities. Residents enjoy the Summer Celebration and Fireworks Spectacular, Fall Harvest Festival, and Spring Fling & Dash on the Grass. There are several summer concerts and regular movie nights. The residents hold "Bagels and Brew" events that aim at helping the current residents to welcome the new ones.
Everything residents would want is around the corner. With proximity to the 4S Ranch Village Center in the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/4s-ranch-homes-for-sale/" title="4S Ranch Homes For Sale">4S Ranch community</a>, residents can access a dentist's office, yoga studio, pilates studio, etc. Sans grocery stores are also nearby.
La Jolla
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/la-jolla-shore.jpg" alt="La Jolla Has Coastlines and Spanish Homes" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px; background-color: #fff;" />About 35.1 million people visit La Jolla annually, and it is ranked as a top U.S. travel destination. Buying a Spanish-style <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/homes-in-la-jolla-for-sale/" title="La Jolla Real Estate">home in La Jolla</a> could be a dream come true for many people because of the many attractions the neighborhood boasts. Also referred to as "the jewel" of San Diego, La Jolla is surrounded by the sea on three sides and backed up by the slopes of Mt. Soledad. It is indeed a paradise with a dramatic coastline, incredible views, and abundant activities!
Residents and tourists alike get to enjoy the well-groomed hiking trails and marvel at the spectacular views. Golf enthusiasts can play at the prominent <a href="https://www.sandiego.org/members/golf/torrey-pines-golf-course.aspx" target="_blank">Torrey Pines Golf Course</a>, one of the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-golf-courses-san-diego/">best golf courses in San Diego</a>. There's no end to the fun activities anyone can indulge in at La Jolla. Residents can visit the Torrey Pines Gliderport to soar over the beach cliffs or relax and watch the fantastic scenery and the action from above. Other attractions are nearby, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and La Jolla Playhouse.
There is never a dull moment living in La Jolla. In addition to plenty of nature and fun activities to do, residents enjoy summer weather all year. Living in a Spanish-style home in this neighborhood is a plus because the white house color and thick walls insulate the home from the heat of California summers. It is also strategically located, which means a short drive to popular destinations such as Petco Park, The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, and Balboa Park.
Living in Neighborhoods With Spanish-Style Homes in San Diego, CA
Living in a neighborhood in San Diego, CA, with many Spanish-influenced homes comes with many advantages, such as beautiful house designs and proximity to local attractions. If you're already planning on how to <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-spanish-design-ideas/">decorate your new Spanish-style home</a>—or just want to bring the look and feel into your current interior design—take a look at homes in these great neighborhoods and gather inspiration.
2022-03-04T09:55:00-07:002022-04-05T07:38:12-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:18319Embrace Spanish Style Interior Design: 4 Tips For Decorating Spanish Style Homes<img src="/userFiles/532/image/spanish-design-ideas.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Design Ideas for Spanish-Style Homes" />
Spanish-style homes have been—and remain to be—a popular architectural style, especially in the Southeastern United States and around coastal areas. While the exteriors are unmistakable due to the predominance of clay tile roofing, stucco siding, and arched doorways beneath tall-ceilinged entryways as <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/common-characteristics-of-spanish-architecture/" title="Common Characteristics of Spanish-Style Architecture">common architectural elements</a>, the Spanish influence can continue indoors in these remarkable homes. The results are often stunning havens of warmth and beauty. Looking for some ways to decorate a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-spanish-homes/" title="San Diego Spanish-Style Homes For Sale">Spanish-style home</a>? Here are a few ideas that interior designers tend to lean towards to achieve the look owners seek.
Table of Contents
<a href="#warm_up_the_home's_color_palette">Warm Up the Home's Color Palette</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#bring_in_mediterranean-inspired_landscaping">Bring In Mediterranean-Inspired Landscaping</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#try_out_colonial-inspired_elements">Try Out Colonial-Inspired Elements</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#add_details_with_wrought_iron_and_patterned_tiles">Add Details With Wrought Iron and Patterned Tiles</a>
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/#designing_with_spanish-influenced_decor">Designing with Spanish-Influenced Decor</a>
Warm Up the Home's Color Palette
To bring about the feeling of warmth and serenity in a Spanish-style home, take advantage of each wall by treating it like a backdrop for creativity in colors and patterns. White walls that visually expand a room can be spruced up with regionally inspired murals, art, or decorated with <a href="https://www.tileclub.com/products/spanish-siesta-mosaic-tile" target="_blank">intricate tiles</a> or wrought iron pieces.
Spanish-style residences tend to include plenty of warm hues, such as <a href="https://www.shelterness.com/rust-terracotta-home-decor-ideas/" target="_blank">earthy terracottas</a>, burnt orange, and reddish-brown tones. These boost the cozy feel of rooms while allowing for bolder colors and accents to visually pop in each room.
Patterns that represent traditional Spanish homes and the culture itself are often dominant in the decor. Owners can express this lively flair with artwork, throws, pillows, eye-catching accessories, and tile inlays throughout the home.
However, don't be tempted to go overboard with kitschy accents, as they can make the home look and feel cluttered and a bit overwhelming for the senses. Simple, basic combinations of white and light hues with strategic warm and bright colors are the ideal way to go.
Bring In Mediterranean-Inspired Landscaping
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/succulent.jpg" alt="Succulents Can Add Indoor or Outdoor Spanish Landscaping" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px; background-color: #fff;" />Landscaping on the inside and outside of a Spanish-influenced home is very distinct in containers and foliage choices. A few traditional Spanish details inside the home quickly spice up the ambiance while bringing the indoor and outdoor details together.
Common implements include large bright blue glazes and terracotta pots filled with succulents and plants that don't require frequent watering. Combined with wrought iron wrapped boxed plants and even large urns with regional olive and palm trees, owners can have their own private indoor garden in a larger Spanish-style home.
Luxury homes might have the entire center of a room dedicated to an indoor landscaping installation or a private courtyard with <a href="https://www.landscapingnetwork.com/spanish-design/" target="_blank">Spanish-style landscaping</a>. These often have a bordered space defined with natural materials as 'flooring' such as:
Saltillo Tiles
Slump Block
Cantera Stone
Pebbles
Patterned Brick
These areas can be filled with climate-appropriate plants and may even have water features like a tiered fountain or reflecting wall to complement the appearance. Wrought iron seating, benches, tables, and Moorish or Moroccan-style lanterns are great accents. Many owners opt to match some of their interior design to details they have amid their exterior landscaping to enhance the home's indoor-outdoor flow.
Try Out Colonial-Inspired Elements
Many don't realize that what we know as modern Spanish style is actually rooted in the <a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a25056763/spanish-colonial-design-style/" target="_blank">Spanish-inspired influence on American Colonial-style homes</a>. One could think of modern Spanish-style decor as a hybrid of the two concepts. This makes it a natural fit to include furnishings and interior architectural features inspired by the styles of Colonial history.
In the modern Spanish style, many details of the decor hail from antiquities of Spanish influences the settlers brought to the Americas, yet they are "refreshed" to offer a more modern feel. For example, owners might opt for hardwood floors typical in the Colonial era instead of traditional clay tile floors. These flooring installations often feature warm or colorful patterned rugs representative of traditional Spanish decor.
The furnishings most used in Spanish decor are crafted from wood or cast iron. Those looking to give a nod to Colonial inspirations might consider heavy, oversized pieces of dark hardwood that look like they will last for generations. Heavy accent tables, high bedding headboards, elongated dining tables, and high-backed chairs are perfect additions.
Bringing both styles together are the intricate carvings in wood furniture representing the Spanish Baroque design that perfectly fits the home's architecture. Other nice touches of Colonial inspiration are quatrefoil windows with large draperies, elaborate patterns or fabric artwork on walls, and elegant lighting fixtures.
Add Details With Wrought Iron and Patterned Tiles
Patterned tiles are an excellent way to showcase a Spanish-style home, especially since they are typically flat and can "disappear" in an open-air abode. Draw the eye toward the floors with clever installations of tiles or create an elaborate pattern throughout. Many opt to feature these in entryways, on stairwells, as kitchen backsplashes, and as borders for fireplaces.
Wrought iron accenting is another common decorative feature in a Spanish-style property on the exteriors, but this versatile material can easily be brought indoors. The most popular area to add wrought iron is in stairwells and railings on upper floors in open floor plans. By leaving the doorways on the second story visible with elaborately designed iron rails, the entire home feels grand and larger than it really is.
Another common way to incorporate this look is within a chandelier installation, wall sconces, and candelabras. There are also opportunities to combine wood and wrought iron with the inclusion of hand-crafted tables of both materials. Other clever ways to get a vintage Spanish-style decor in the home are wrought iron wall art, plant holders, and fireplace accents.
Designing with Spanish-Influenced Decor
Spanish-style homes tend to stand out above standard single-family homes with elegant touches that represent the region that inspired this unique architecture. With warm colors, decorative touches, and natural materials throughout, owners can feel like they are on a villa-style vacation every day!
2022-02-28T16:24:00-07:002022-03-28T08:14:30-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:17872Spanish Revival Architecture Guide: 3 Common Traits of Spanish Style Homes<img src="/userFiles/532/image/spanish-style-characteristics.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Characteristics of Spanish-Style Homes" />
Spanish-style homes are primarily throughout the Southwest region of the United States, partially because there are territories in the country that Spain ruled for over 400 years before becoming states. Many architectural elements in southwestern homes set them apart. These unique elements make them so desirable in their locations because Spanish-style homes are often built to pair with a more arid environment in mind. Those currently house-hunting can read on for a shortlist of things to look for when identifying a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-spanish-homes/" title="San Diego Spanish-Style Homes for Sale">Spanish-style home</a>.
Check Out the Roof
<a href="https://vereaclaytile.com/products/" target="_blank">Barrel roof tiles</a> are one of any Spanish-style home's most iconic signature elements. These "S"-shaped tiles are typically made of terracotta clay and are crafted to last a lifetime. Sometimes, these tiles are vibrant colors. But usually, they are red or reddish-brown in appearance and slant downward on the roof.
When house-hunting, it is recommended to look for any cracked or loose tiles as they will need replacing. The roof itself is traditionally flat and low-pitched with no overhang. Because the roof is flat, interested buyers should check for proper drainage as it can cause severe leaks if overlooked. One other element notably seen in Spanish-style roofs is exposed wood support beams because of the heaviness of the material of the walls and things like stucco.
Walls Have Arches & Stucco
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/wall-arch-stucco.jpg" alt="Home with Stucco and Arched Walls" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px; background-color: #fff;" />Many people tend to appreciate these houses because the architecture utilizes local and natural elements in its construction, from the clay used in the roof tiles to the stucco used for the walls. These natural elements create an atmosphere of comfort and connectedness to the home's environment. Stucco walls are perfect for climates known for high heat. In colder regions, this material shrinks away, dries, and cracks easily. In hotter climates, <a href="https://www.thebalancesmb.com/choose-right-stucco-mix-844655" target="_blank">stucco material</a> is widely loved for its ability to insulate and repel against heat while naturally cooling the interior of a home. Any cracks visible in the stucco walls may indicate foundational issues. Arches in the stucco walls are another key tell for Spanish-style dwellings. These rounded arches are most often found over the windows, doors, and entryways throughout the house.
Wrought-Iron Detailing
Traditionally used in place of glass panes in windows, wrought-iron detailing is a beautifully ornate detail in homes with a southwestern look. Influenced by previous gothic elements, wrought-iron detailing is typically found in windows, stair railings, and gates. They are also seen on things like lanterns and other exterior decors. However, some specific types of Spanish-style architecture do not lean as heavily on the wrought-iron detailing. For example, Morrish and Mission Revival types of architecture may substitute these ornate details. Instead, balconies may have sculpted parapets rather than wrought-iron detailing.
Different Types of Spanish-Style Architecture
Southwestern architecture has been influenced by a lot more than just its Spanish origins, considering Spanish-style architecture is also always a product of its environment. That means there is a proliferation of Spanish-style homes throughout Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Florida. However, this popular style exists throughout the world. Most of the houses in these locations are newer and known as Spanish-revival houses for bringing back South American or Mexican architecture. The most common Spanish-style homes are Mission Revival, Pueblo Revival, Monterey, Floridian, and Spanish Eclectic. The last one on that list, Spanish Eclectic, is the most common of these house types because it is an umbrella term. Spanish Eclectic borrows from all different kinds of Spanish-style modern revival homes.
Spanish-Style Homes Bring Warmth & a Unique Look
At the end of the day, Spanish-style homes are almost always associated with architectural elements that convey warmth and comfort. When house-hunting for Spanish-style homes, it is essential to keep this list of things in mind. The roofs, walls, and windows all have specific qualities that set them apart from most other types of homes. The mix of Old World and New World styling appeals to a wide range of individuals for its distinctive look.
2022-02-18T10:30:00-07:002022-03-23T07:22:14-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:173854 Gated Communities With Short Commutes to Downtown San Diego<img src="/userFiles/532/image/gated-communities-downtown.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="San Diego Gated Communities Close to Downtown" />
When it comes to privacy and top-notch amenities, the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gated-communities/" title="San Diego Gated Community Homes For Sale">gated communities in San Diego</a> are sure to delight. Gated communities are typically a vision of suburban living. A resident's home neighborhood in a gated community has much less through traffic, is much quieter, and is a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city and its traffic. However, that doesn't mean owners have to resign to long commutes to work. Keep reading to learn about the four of the gated communities that are closest to the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/downtown-san-diego-condos-for-sale/" title="Condos For Sale in Downtown San Diego CA">Downtown San Diego neighborhood</a>.
Del Cerro Heights
Del Cerro Heights is a luxurious hillside gated community north of Interstate 8, about 12 miles from the main gate to Downtown San Diego. The gated community is situated just north of San Diego State University and adjacent to Lake Murray and the Mission Trails Regional Park. While most of the houses in San Diego County are built in the Spanish Mission style, it's possible to find <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/del-cerro-homes-for-sale/" title="Homes For Sale in Del Cerro San Diego">homes in Del Cerro</a> that are entirely custom. The homes range in size from about 2,100 square feet to 5,500 square feet.
Development in Del Cerro Heights started back in the 1960s. New development plans for the neighborhood include a housing project for faculty and staff members of San Diego State. The Homeowners Association hosts a giant block party for the neighborhood every summer, with live music, food, and family-friendly events. The Mission Trails Golf Course and San Carlos Golf Course are located east of Del Cerro Heights. To the north of the neighborhood, Mission Trails Regional Park provides many miles of hiking trails and nature viewing opportunities.
Carriage Hill
Carriage Hill is about 14 miles due east of Downtown San Diego. The gated community is located near the Sweetwater Dam and Reservoir in the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/bonita-homes-for-sale/" title="Homes For Sale in Bonita CA">suburb of Bonita</a>. It's a hillside community, so the homes are elevated and have stunning valley views. The community has 18 luxury single-family homes ranging from 2,500 square feet to 3,200 square feet. There are even a few single-story homes in the neighborhood, which are rare in this part of San Diego County. The community has private streets and a private park for residents inside the gate.
The Sweetwater County Park is adjacent to Carriage Hill. This ample green space includes baseball fields, a bike park, camping, hiking, and horseback riding trails. The nearby Lucky Seven Ranch offers horse boarding for residents who own horses. The Bonita Golf Course (18-hole public course with driving range) is located just south of Carriage Hill. Many dining and shopping options are available just five minutes north of Carriage Hill, primarily along Jamacha Boulevard. Anglers can head to the Sweetwater Reservoir nearby, where shoreline fishing is open to license holders year-round.
Want to live in a gated community near downtown San Diego? Browse all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gated-communities/">San Diego gated community homes for sale</a>.
Stallions Crossing
Stallions Crossing is located about 20 miles directly north of Downtown San Diego along I-5. Stallions Crossing is described as a community best suited for "country clubbers and horse lovers." The gated community has 47 luxury homes in the three- to five-bedroom range. Most of the homes in Stallions Crossing are built in the English country style, rather than the Spanish Mission and Mediterranean styles that are so common in San Diego County. Many homes have direct views of the Pacific Ocean and the Del Mar Racetrack.
The <a href="https://www.bayclubs.com/fairbanksranch/" target="_blank">Fairbanks Ranch Country Club</a> is the closest gold course to Stallions Crossing. Torrey Pines, the Grand Golf Club, the Del Mar Country Club, and five additional courses are all just a short drive away. For residents of Stallions Crossing who own horses, there are numerous boarding stables nearby and a host of equestrian clubs and activities. This includes the Del Mar Racetrack, the San Diego Polo Club, and the Ranch El Camino Equestrian Center. The Stallions Crossing community provides easy access to the ocean, with Solano Beach and the Del Mar beaches just a short drive away across I-5.
The Crosby Estate at Rancho Santa Fe
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/private-golf-community.jpg" alt="San Diego Golf COmmunity" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />The Crosby Estate is a gated golf course community with 24/7 security and is one of the best <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-gated-communities-with-great-amenities/">San Diego gated communities with awesome amenities</a>. It's located about 29 miles north and east of Downtown San Diego. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/crosby-rancho-santa-fe-homes-for-sale/">Crosby Estates real estate</a> includes 281 semi-custom homes, 70 custom homesites, and 70 villas on the grounds. The homes are interwoven with an 18-hole championship private golf course. Named for entertainer Bing Crosby, the community boasts the finest country club living on 722 acres. One hundred ninety acres of the community have been set aside as permanent open space. PGA Champion Fred Couples designed the private golf course.
All residents at the Crosby Estate are members of the private country club. There is a 30,000 square foot clubhouse for residents, a large swimming, tennis, athletic club, and a driving range. Several private parks have been built on the grounds, with woodlands, marshes, and wetlands views. Numerous private hiking trails wind through the wooded areas of the estate.
Enjoy Gated Luxury and Short Commutes in San Diego
Gated communities offer peace of mind for homeowners that even though they may be commuting to Downtown San Diego for work, they can return to a peaceful haven with luxurious homes. In addition to being quieter than open communities and having slower traffic, gated communities often offer lifestyle perks and amenities that just can't be found through a regular homeowners association. Whether you <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/pros-cons-guard-gated-or-unmanned-gated-community/">choose a guard-gated community or an unmanned area</a>,
2022-01-31T10:23:00-07:002022-03-16T09:34:26-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:17060Types of Gated Communities: Pros & Cons of Guard-Gated vs. Unmanned<img src="/userFiles/532/image/guard-gated-vs-unmanned-gated.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Should You Live in a Guard-Gated or Unmanned Gated Community?" />
Gated communities offer residents security, privacy, and assurance that their homes will be safe. While many homebuyers find a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gated-communities/" title="San Diego Gated Communities">gated community</a> to be a highly desirable feature, they often don't stop to consider that not all gated developments are the same. Some communities offer a guard-gated service, while others provide the security of a gate, but it is unmanned. Home seekers exploring different gated communities should know both types of gate services offer benefits; however, which one is more favorable will vary. If a gated community is desired, here are several essential factors home seekers should consider when deciding between homes in guard-gated and unmanned gated developments.
Why Should You Live in a Gated Community?
People can use quiet neighborhoods as "pass-through" routes to avoid vehicle congestion and traffic lights in traditional neighborhoods. Without physical barriers such as gates, people can freely come and go, leading to strangers walking through neighborhoods. Gated communities of any kind offer residents who live there significant benefits, including the feeling of being secure and knowing strangers who aren't neighbors won't be coming anywhere close to their homes.
Advantages of Living in a Gated Community With No Guard
Residents of gated communities enjoy numerous advantages that residents living in non-gated communities don't. The top benefits of gated communities include:
Stronger Security
Gated communities offer residents the peace of mind that people won't compromise or destroy neighborhood homes. Even an unmanned gate is usually enough of a deterrent for someone to target a different neighborhood that is easier to access.
Slower Vehicle Speeds/Safer Pedestrians
Residential areas often see too many accidents due to drivers cruising through their neighborhoods at excessive speeds. Upon arrival to a gated community, drivers must halt their vehicles to show credentials before being allowed to enter. This process naturally brings cars to stop, makes drivers more aware of their surroundings, and resets the motorist's mindset to follow speeds more appropriate for residential areas. As a result, pedestrians don't need to worry as much about reckless drivers and feel freer to jog, bike, and walk in their neighborhoods, making it safer for kids as well.
No Solicitors
Aggressive solicitors can be a nuisance, and living in a gated community all but eliminate this high inconvenience. Usually, HOAs discourage commercial solicitation, and many all-out block salespersons from going door to door in their neighborhoods. This factor is a massive benefit to many homeowners, regardless of the type of gated community chosen.
Controlled Access
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/gated-community-entrance.jpg" alt="Entrance to a Gated Community" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />Gates enable communities to regulate who comes and goes in their neighborhoods. <a href="https://nimbio.com/gate-codes-access-control-in-gated-communities/">All visitors must need a code</a> or resident approval to gain entry, ensuring a highly accurate record of people who have come and gone. Typically, gates also work with security cameras to track vehicle license plates entering the neighborhood.
In addition to the above, residents of gated communities enjoy a greater shared sense of community and use of <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-gated-communities-with-great-amenities/" title="San Diego Gated Communities with Great Amenities">amenities exclusive to the neighborhood</a>.
Benefits of Living in a Guard-Gated Community
In addition to the excellent benefits of simply living in a gated community, many homebuyers prefer to purchase a property within a guard-gated community. The mere existence of a guard can deter unwanted entry with no further intervention required. Aside from this, there are other advantages as well.
Provides Extra Layer of Protection
While a physical gate adds a good level of protection, a physically present guard to observe and track visitors adds an extra <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/home-security-tips-for-san-diego/">stronger layer of security.</a> Guards can monitor every person who comes and goes and question people upon arrival. If an attempt is made to enter without authorization, a guard can stop them or, worst scenario, sound an alarm or call for police backup.
Careful Records of Visitors
Not only do visitors need to share credentials or state their business to the guard, but the security cameras also take photos of the visitors, cars, and license plates. Guards have a permanent record of anyone coming and going at all entrances and exits using CCTV.
Guest Notices
Even if expecting company, residents may not know precisely when their family, friends, contractor, or other person visiting arrives. A guard can check a visitor's credentials, and some services offer the added benefit of alerting the residents when to expect arrival.
Prevents Tech Hiccups
Technology is generally reliable, but it can also experience glitches. Suppose a badge, card, or other credential isn't taken. In that case, a security guard can ensure residents and legitimate visitors can get where they need to go by verifying them either by face or by showing other forms of identification.
While gated communities often cost a bit more than non-gated communities, some financial benefits make many very affordable. Secured properties typically offer homeowners better value for their properties. Furthermore, guards are paid via HOA fees. In other words, residents can experience all the protections manned security guards offer without worrying about finding a reliable security company or paying a monthly bill.
Contact an Experienced Real Estate Agent to Help Find the Right Home
Living in a gated community, whether unmanned or guard-gated, can offer residents peace of mind, and some of these <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diegos-most-walkable-neighborhoods/" title="Gated Communities with Short Commutes to Downtown San Diego">gated communities offer great commutes</a>, as well. Many present-day buyers prefer a community offering features such as space for remote work, great amenities, and gates. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/relocating-the-definitive-list-to-finding-the-right-real-estate-agent/">Finding a knowledgeable real estate agent</a> is a great way to help home seekers find the right neighborhood that meets their needs and preferences.
2022-01-11T12:10:00-07:002022-08-23T08:01:38-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:169854 San Diego Gated Neighborhoods With Amazing Amenities<img src="/userFiles/532/image/gated-communities-awesome-amenities.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Gated Communities in San Diego With the Best Amenities" />
There are many great reasons to live in San Diego: incredible weather, easy access to the beach, fantastic cuisine, arts, and culture. But living the SoCal life gets even better with luxurious <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gated-communities/" title="San Diego Gated Communities For Sale">San Diego gated community homes</a>. The amenities provided by some of the HOAs in San Diego are truly jaw-dropping. Keep reading to learn about four San Diego gated communities with top-of-the-line amenities that are sure to amaze potential homebuyers.
Fairbanks Ranch
Fairbanks Ranch is a highly desired gated community of about 600 homes on 75 acres of lush, landscaped grounds. Most of the 600 homes in the community are large, Mission-style estate homes with red tile roofs and stucco walls. The gated community has two lakes, numerous wooded walking paths, and a world-class equestrian center. The Farms Golf Club borders the south end of the community. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/pros-cons-guard-gated-or-unmanned-gated-community/">Deciding between a guard-gated or unmanned gated community</a>? Fairbanks Ranch offers peace of mind to its residents with 24-hour security patrols and constantly monitored entrances to the community. Every home has a residential security system networked with the community's security personnel.
The exquisite 4,000-square-foot Fairbanks Ranch Clubhouse is the hub of social activities in the community. Weddings, birthday parties, and social group meetings happen there. Residents are welcome to go paddle boating on the serene lakes on the grounds or simply enjoy the relaxing views. Lighted tennis courts are available for residents until 10 p.m. each night. The community also has a library, a children's playground, and an outdoor fitness course.
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/fairbanks-ranch-homes-for-sale/">Homes for sale in Fairbanks Ranch</a> are usually priced between $2.7 million for a 2,150-square foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home with an attached two-car garage, all the way up to $98.5 million for a sprawling 15,000-square-foot ranch house with six bedrooms, seven baths, and horse stables on seven acres.
The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe
The Bridges is a luxurious gated community with 240 single-family residences. The homes range from 2,900 square-foot villas to 12,000-square-foot custom-built estates. Most of the homes have great views of the citrus groves on the grounds of the community.
Being a member at The Bridges offers residents private access to some incredible amenities. There are three custom dining venues in the community, each offering five-star fare. The community organizes annual events for residents, including wine tastings, culinary demonstrations, concerts, and holiday events. It also has a private 10,000-square-foot fitness center, a heated swimming pool, and a full-service day spa, in addition to complete concierge services for residents. A five-acre tennis and recreation center and a par 71 private golf course round out the list of amenities at The Bridges.
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/the-bridges-rancho-santa-fe/">Homes for sale in The Bridges</a> often range from $2.3 million for a 3,100-square-foot, 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home up to $6.8 million for a 12,000-square-foot, five-bedroom, six-bath estate.
Ready to live in a home in a San Diego gated community? View all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/gated-communities/">San Diego gated community homes for sale</a>.
Santaluz
The <a href="https://www.thesantaluzclub.com/" target="_blank">Santaluz community</a> is a gated country club situated east of Fairbanks Ranch. Like many of the homes in San Diego County, the residences in Santaluz are primarily Mission-style homes. The thing that sets Santaluz apart is the expansive views of the countryside and rolling hills available in this community.
The Santaluz Club hosts numerous family-oriented social events throughout the year. This includes wine festivals, concerts, holiday events, and receptions. Camp Santaluz provides year-long children's activities and summer camps. The championship golf course at Santaluz, designed by famed architect Rees Jones, is a centerpiece of life in this community. The private Santaluz Clubhouse is situated on a nine-acre site overlooking the golf course. The Clubhouse has 5,000 square feet of covered patio space outside and 35,000 feet inside. The interior is home to the Clubhouse Spa, available only to residents and guests. Steam and sauna rooms, a whirlpool, and luxurious men's and women's locker rooms are available for all members. The Clubhouse is also home to a large fitness center and six lighted tennis courts.
Most <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/santaluz-homes-for-sale/">homes for sale in Santaluz</a> typically range in price from $3.5 and $5 million.
The Crosby Estate at Rancho Santa Fe
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/gated-community-golf.jpg" alt="Gated Golf Course Community" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px; background-color: #fff;" />The <a href="https://crosbyestate.org/" target="_blank">Crosby Estate</a> is an upscale, gated golf course community. The Mission-style homes in this community all surround the members-only Crosby Club. The community has 421 residences that range from villas to semi-custom homes. The Crosby Estate is named after the late singer and actor Bing Crosby. Inside the gates, the community encompasses 722 acres, more than 190 acres designated as permanent open space. It has 24/7 guarded security at its entrances.
The Crosby Club offers fine dining at Grill 19, situated just above the 18th hole. It's a casual yet elegant dining experience with live entertainment acts every weekend. Several other dining venues and a bar provide many choices for members. Friday and Saturday daycare is available for children at the Club as well. The Crosby Sports Center has many fitness options available for members. It has a state-of-the-art indoor fitness facility with personal trainers available. There are also three tennis courts and a 25-yard junior Olympic-sized pool. Tennis lessons are available from USPTA Certified Tennis pros.
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/crosby-rancho-santa-fe-homes-for-sale/">Crosby Estate homes for sale</a> usually start at around $2 million and span upwards of $5 million.
Luxurious Living in San Diego Gated Communities
These gated communities in San Diego allow residents to pursue an active outdoor and social lifestyle around friendly neighbors. The amenities offered in these communities make life that much easier, thanks to their proximity and private access. This doesn't even take into account the fact that most of these neighborhoods are some of the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-san-diego-gated-communities-close-to-downtown/">gated communities closest to Downtown San Diego</a>.
2022-01-06T11:20:00-07:002022-03-16T09:36:03-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:191266 Pre-Approval Mistakes First-time Home Buyers Should Avoid<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/common-pre-approval-mistakes.jpg" alt="Mortgage Pre-Approval Tips: Avoid These 6 Mistakes" width="475" />A mortgage pre-approval brings you a step closer to owning a home. If you have finally got the letter—congratulations! It is not a guarantee that the lender will give you a loan to purchase a house, but it's telling you that everything looks good so far. Preparation is vital for those who want to <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/to-be-determined-vs-preliminary-pre-approval-letters/">be competitive homebuyers</a>.
Whether you are a veteran home buyer or a first-time homebuyer, the process will be much smoother if you know the mistakes to avoid when making the application. Also, this will decrease the probability of your application being rejected. Keep reading to learn how to avoid the most common mistakes most people make when applying for mortgage pre-approval.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.
Not Checking Your Credit
You can get a copy of your credit report at no charge from the <a href="https://www.thebalance.com/who-are-the-three-major-credit-bureaus-960416#what-is-a-credit-bureau" target="_blank">big three credit bureaus</a> once every year. If you haven't ordered them, you should do that immediately. A thorough credit check must be done before applying for a mortgage pre-approval. The credit reports outline accounts in collection, the money you owe on credit cards and loans, late payments, recent bankruptcies, and any financial mistakes you have made in the past.
Some of these financial mistakes will stay on your credit report for seven years or more. The negatives will lower your credit score, and this is one of the main reasons lenders will reject your application for a mortgage. You can't fix what you don't know, so you have to look at your credit reports.
Not Exploring All of Your Mortgage Options
See what all is available before you <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/choose-your-san-diego-home-loan/">choose a loan</a>. If you go for the first mortgage offer you get, you'll likely pay a higher interest rate. Sending applications to at least three different lenders will give you a better sense of what you can afford. Also, you'll have better data when comparing lender fees, <a href="https://www.destinpropertyexpert.com/blog/a-complete-closing-checklist-for-first-time-home-buyers/" target="_blank">closing costs</a>, loan products, and even interest rates. On the same note, you'll have the information needed to negotiate the best deal possible. Keep an eye on the closing costs and associated fees because they can quickly get out of hand.
Moving Money Around
Whether it's making large withdrawals or deposits from your bank accounts, this can lead to the rejection of your mortgage application. Too much money going in or out might mean you got a loan which affects your debt-to-income ratio. Transparent deposits are accepted, though, including an IRS tax refund or a bonus from your employer. Any large deposits into your account should have a proper explanation for the lender to confirm it isn't a loan.
Suppose you are using a gift from a friend or a relative to pay for the down payment, then you’d need to ask for a gift letter and documentation to support that. These should outline that you aren't required to pay back the money.
Changing Jobs
Getting a better career opportunity might mean more money and fulfillment in your profession. However, it will complicate the mortgage pre-approval process. You need to demonstrate that you have stable employment and income before the mortgage is approved. Before the loan is approved, the lender wants to be sure you can afford to repay the mortgage.
If you quit your job when the lender had used that in approving your mortgage, it will be seen as a red flag. Additionally, you need proof of two consecutive years of steady income and employment. When you change jobs, you'll have to wait for two more years to lapse and reapply. If remaining in the same position is not doable, you should let the lender know.
Making Major Credit Card Purchases
It's not just closing or opening credit lines that will ding your credit score. Even running up the existing credit accounts will also lower your credit score. You have to keep your finances and credit stable until you close. Otherwise, your loan application will be rejected. If you have to buy a new TV or new furniture, just pay in cash or delay that until you have bought the house.
Your <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/credit-ratings-and-mortgages-what-you-need-to-know/">credit and mortgage are connected</a>. Delaying any major purchases allows you to adjust your budget to accommodate new homeownership costs. You don't want to have many monthly payments that will push you further into debt.
Opening Or Closing Lines of Credit
The lender can still turn you down when approving the mortgage loan even when you had been pre-approved already. Your credit will be checked during pre-approval and also before closing. You want to maintain the status quo on your finances and credit in the interim. Thus, you shouldn't close or open any new lines of credit. Such a move increases your debt-to-income ratio or lowers your credit score- both critical grounds for denial of the final approval.
Paying off debt is okay, but don't close the account no matter what you have gone through to clear the debt. Length of credit is an essential consideration in generating your credit score. Closing the account takes that credit history off your report. You can leave the account open and active until you close on the house and then close it.
Take the Stress Out of Pre-Approval by Avoiding Mistakes
Avoiding these mistakes will help make the pre-approval process smoother and less time-consuming. When you are ready to start your home buying journey, be sure to work with a qualified real estate agent who can guide you through every step of the way.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.2022-01-05T15:50:00-07:002022-05-02T12:58:45-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:16754San Diego Luxury Waterfront Tips: 4 Ways To Get the Best Bang for Your Buck<img src="/userFiles/532/image/maximize-luxury-waterfront-roi.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Maximize the ROI of Your San Diego Waterfront Home" />
Imagine this: opening a window to hear the gentle Pacific Coast waves as they roll peacefully upon the shore. The radiant sunset paints a vibrant sky that stretches into the endless western horizon. It's a typical end to a day for people who own <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-waterfront-real-estate/">waterfront homes in San Diego</a>.
Whether it be next to the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, or Mission Bay, a luxury waterfront home in <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-county-homes-for-sale/" title="Homes for Sale in San Diego County CA">San Diego County</a> offers a uniquely serene experience with some of the best weather on the planet.
But how can you ensure that your home on the coast is a value-buy and blossoms as a prime investment opportunity? Keep reading to learn about four ways to get the best bang for your buck when buying a San Diego luxury waterfront home.
Build a Private Dock or Boat Slip
Whether this home will be a primary residence, a rental property, or a seasonal getaway, a key goal with any property is to ensure that a purchase grows in worth over time. A private dock or boat slip is a desired facet of any coastal property and immediately boosts its value.
However, a private dock or boat slip benefits the home in terms of equity, but it provides year-round savings.
<a href="https://www.edgewatermarineinc.com/advantages-of-having-your-own-boating-dock" target="_blank">Additional benefits of a private dock</a> include:
There aren't any marina fees
Owners are exempt from purchasing a fishing license
There is a free place to swim at all times
Building a private dock or boat slip is also purchasing security. Having a boat safely attached to a dock reduces the possibility of someone trying to vandalize or steal it. Owners can also glance out the window to ensure that boats and other nautical assets are safe and secure.
Lastly, there's one priceless benefit to having a private dock or boat slip: convenience. Whenever a homeowner wants to enjoy either boats or the dock, it's just a short walk away and always open.
Ensure Deeded Beach & Water Access
When purchasing waterfront property, the buyers may not own the public beach or the water itself. In this case, beach/water access must be included in the home deed when making the purchase.
Deeded beach or water rights include the ability to freely access the beach through a specified pathway to the pertinent beach or body of water, regardless of who owns it. The homeowner's access is protected and guaranteed.
Not only may this be vital to thoroughly enjoying a beachfront home and all of its offerings, but it's often an essential component of what makes a waterfront property a desired investment.
Ready for a life in a stunning waterfront home? View all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-waterfront-real-estate/">San Diego waterfront homes for sale</a>.
Design an Outdoor Living Space
San Diego's warm and pleasant climate is one of the area's greatest assets. Twelve months a year, it's possible to sit outside in a tee-shirt under blue skies. If most time is spent indoors, it would be more challenging to enjoy the beauty of San Diego's weather.
One possibility is to <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-waterfront-home-outdoor-design-tips/">design a luxurious waterfront lounge in San Diego</a>. By bringing some of the indoor elements outside, there are more opportunities for spending time in the sunshine.
The design options are endless, but some include an outdoor fireplace, a dining room, an area for games such as billiards or ping-pong, a reading space, and outdoor showers. Screen in a portion of the outdoor living space, <a href="https://www.wallacefences.com/" target="_blank">add fencing</a> and natural landscaping for privacy, and customize the design with mood lighting and accessories of a particular color scheme.
In addition to being a superb opportunity to enjoy further and personalize any luxury waterfront home, an outdoor living space increases overall property values.
Purchase in One of San Diego's Top Waterfront Communities
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-diego-waterfront-community.jpg" alt="San Diego Waterfront Community" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px; background-color: #fff;" />There are three crucial standards in real estate: location, location, location. San Diego has many reasons to seek a coastal home. Still, specific waterfront communities within the greater San Diego area offer a greater return on investment and more attractions than others.
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/marina-district-san-diego-condos/">Marina District condos</a> and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/coronado-homes-for-sale/">homes on Coronado</a> offer serene coastal living and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/construction-styles-that-maximize-water-views/">construction styles that maximize water views</a> while being a relatively short distance from the vibrant offerings of city life. From exquisite culinary options to art, culture, recreational activities, and shopping, living near the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-downtown/" title="Homes For Sale in Downtown San Diego">Downtown San Diego area</a> presents an energetic change of scene, allowing homeowners to step away from a tranquil luxury residence into an exciting world of entertainment opportunities.
San Diego Waterfront Homes: An Investment Beyond Measure
A luxury waterfront home in the greater San Diego area is a dream purchase. Residents enjoy year-round sunshine near beautiful beaches and a beloved city. Owners can expect to experience effortless demand from prospective short- and long-term tenants as a rental property. As an investment, the highly desirable real estate will be poised to grow in value for years to come.
Whatever your reason for owning, waterfront home in San Diego is a priceless property in a jewel region of the country.
2021-12-20T07:06:00-07:002022-04-11T10:14:42-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:166294 Luxury Waterfront Construction Styles That Optimize Your View<img src="/userFiles/532/image/maximizing-waterfront-views.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="How to Design a House for the Best Waterfront Views" />
Homeowners fortunate enough to live on a waterfront property want to maximize their water views and get the most of its potential. These homes typically come at a premium price (though <a href="https://realtybiznews.com/why-waterfront-properties-can-be-an-excellent-investment/98763141/" target="_blank">waterfront property also offers great returns</a>), so why not get the most bang for the proverbial buck on your waterfront home? Letting these gorgeous views go to waste would be a shame. If you've invested in a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-waterfront-real-estate/" title="San Diego Waterfront Homes For Sale">waterfront home</a>, be it ocean, lake, pond, or river, read on for some great techniques you can use to maximize waterfront views.
Prioritize Windows Facing the Water
If building new construction, talk to the architect to make sure the house is oriented so that floor-to-ceiling windows can give unimpeded views. The more area span windows have, the bigger the view, and integrating "glass wall" style windows nicely accommodate the ability to achieve amazing views. Another option is to add bi-fold doors to walls facing the water. Incorporating corner windows into a home's design can also add breathtaking immersive views. Any options added will let in a significant amount of natural light and give incredible water views.
While water views are a priority, it's important to consider comfort as well, which means giving some thought to sunlight levels. Homeowners don't necessarily want to be woken at 5:30 a.m. as the summer sunlight starts streaming in, but maybe want to see that light once 8 a.m. rolls around. Depending on the angle the windows are positioned at, functionality is an important consideration. Solutions can be found in a variety of <a href="https://mitsblindsnorthdfw.com/5-beautiful-window-treatments-that-wont-block-your-views/" target="_blank">window treatments that don't block views</a>, including darkening or smart blinds, that can be opened or tucked away easily. To address heat concerns, one popular <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/sustainable-technology-in-home-construction/">eco-friendly home investment</a> is to install double-glazed windows with glass that offers heat reflectivity ("Low-E glass") to keep temperatures more comfortable.
Homeowners can also consult with an experienced architect or builder about ways to maximize water views without hindering daily lifestyles.
Inside, Keep an Open Floor Plan
Open floor plans are a top building trend in general; however, open floor plans are a must when it comes to homes with water views. The fewer indoor walls, the fewer obstructions there will be to seeing the water's gorgeous backdrop or how the sunlight dances across the water ripples. If the house currently has walls blocking these views, a talented architect can help do a redesign, and an experienced contractor brings the vision of an open floor plan to a reality.
Imagine walking into a home and looking straight out the back of the home towards the view? Or dining over candlelight as the moon reflects on the water? Curling up on a cool winter's day with a good book to unwind while watching the wind whip through the waves? By optimizing the home's layout, homeowners can enjoy practically panoramic views of the water. With a good design, the possibilities to create moments of inspiration and relaxation are endless.
Invest in Outdoor Spaces
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/outdoor-living-space.jpg" alt="Outdoor Space with Waterfront Views" style="float: right; max-width: 400px; padding: 0 0 10px 10px background-color:#fff;" />Investing in <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/san-diego-waterfront-home-outdoor-design-tips/" title="Outdoor Design Tips for Waterfront Home">outdoor living space</a> for a waterfront home also goes a long way towards maximizing a home's amazing water views. For instance, by making a balcony, deck, or other outdoor living space more inviting, homeowners and their guests will be more likely to spend time there. Converting existing outdoor space to an open lanai equates to eliminating the obstructions caused by columns, railings, and other structures, providing the opportunity to see pristine water views. Other investments to consider to further heighten the outdoor experience are for homeowners to <a href="https://stylecurator.com.au/designing-the-ultimate-alfresco-kitchen/" target="_blank">design an alfresco kitchen</a>, grilling space, firepit, pool and spa, and comfortable seating arrangements. For colder weather months, integrating an outdoor fireplace or heater easily extends the seasonal use of these cozy outdoor spaces.
One of the best benefits to waterfront property is having instant access. Adding a private boat dock, complete with a small storage area for surfboards, water skis, tubes, and other water accessories (stowing a portable firepit is also nice!), easily enhances a waterfront lifestyle and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/best-san-diego-luxury-waterfront-home-amenities/" title="Ways to Increase a Waterfront Property's ROI">increases the property's ROI</a>. Add in some lounge chairs, and homeowners can round out the perfect daily excursion without ever leaving home.
Consider Where Everyone Spends the Most Time
When planning to build or redesign a home, it's crucial to consider where and how everyone spends the majority of their time. Start by assessing how much time is spent in rooms such as the living room, kitchen, den, bedroom, or home office, to name a few. Next, think about what a daily lifestyle and routine will look like, because this directly impacts ideal room placement. For instance, if working from home, a water view could augment the workday and provide inspiration. Ideally, homeowners want to maximize the water views in the spaces where they spend the most time. This is especially true for properties with only a few optimal views or if the home only has partial water views.
Save less important areas, such as mudrooms, storage rooms, pantries, for the walls and angles of the home that don't offer the best water views. If building new, this should be easy, but even in existing homes, a good designer can help reconfigure spaces to open up more angles to view the water.
Water Views Can Enhance a Lifestyle
Homeowners who create areas of "wow" factors can significantly boost each day and share that feeling with anyone visiting their homes. Waterfront homes offer so many benefits, but it's vital to plan with views in mind to make the most of the property. Maximizing a home's water views can do a lot to enhance a lifestyle and improve occupants' quality of life while simultaneously creating a welcoming environment for visitors.
2021-12-09T08:00:00-07:002021-12-20T07:33:09-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:16496Run In Sheds vs. Horse Stalls: Which Is the Better Shelter For Your Horses?<img src="/userFiles/532/image/stalls-or-run-in-shelters.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Should You Use a Run-In Shelter or Stalls?" />
While many horse owners board their horses at <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/luxury-stables-to-board-your-horse-at-in-san-diego/" title="Best San Diego Luxury Horse Stables">local luxury stables</a>, there's a special delight in keeping horses at home. Choosing the right structure for sheltering them ensures that they stay happy and safe while owners enjoy the convenience of having these companions nearby. Stalls and run-in sheds are among the most common types of housing for horses. Each has benefits and drawbacks that can make one or the other a better bet for a specific horse owner's circumstances. If you're thinking about building a horse shelter on your <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-county-horse-property-homes/" title="San Diego County Horse Property Homes For Sale">equestrian property</a>, read on to learn some pros and cons of stalls versus run-in sheds.
Stalls for Horses
Stalls provide a sheltered accommodation where each horse can get their own personal space. This secured place can be a great fit for horses who need to be separated from others or need extra supervision. They can be a great fit in many set-ups, as long as the pros and cons are considered.
Pro: Owners Can Regulate Feeding
Some horses have a hard time self-regulating feeding. Others require specialized diets that may not be the same as other horses' on the property. With a barn stall, it is easy to see what the horse is eating and ensure that they are getting the proper diet.
Pro: Stalls Make Horses Easily Accessible
People who want quick and easy access to their horses on a regular basis can appreciate this aspect of a barn stall. There is no need to dash out into the paddock to catch a horse who may have other ideas about how they wish to spend their afternoon.
And, like any other animal, horses sometimes get sick. Being able to stay in a horse stall is a comfort for both horse and owner when this occurs. Sick horses can be separated from others to ensure that illnesses don't spread. The vet will have easy access to give them the medical care they need. And, they can be protected from other horses and have the peace and quiet they need to heal.
Con: Horses Need Exercise Every Day
When horses spend their time in stalls, they need to be taken out daily to get exercise. They are large animals that require the ability to run off energy, and <a href="https://www.horse.com/content/exercise/exercise-for-horses/" target="_blank">proper exercise</a> is essential to avoid health problems. Time in their stalls can also lead to boredom, which can, in turn, lead to behavior problems.
Owners who have the time for daily exercise (not to mention mucking stalls while the horses are out) can find that these requirements are not hard to manage. However, it could lead to more work than anticipated for many horse lovers.
Run-In Sheds for Horses
Run-in sheds give horses freedom to decide where they wish to be and access to ample exercise. The set-up is simple: a large shed opens up onto a paddock that horses can freely access throughout the day. While this freedom is a wonderful thing for horses and owners alike, there are also potential complications to be aware of.
Pro: Less Work for Owners
When horses stay in run-in sheds, owners have much less work to do. Horses can spend their time out in the paddock, which means less time mucking out stalls for you. They get as much exercise as they need because they spend the day roaming in the outdoors. Owners spend less time on maintenance, allowing them to spend more time feeding and enjoying their horses.
Pro: Horses Get More Enrichment
<img src="/userFiles/532/image/luxury-equestrian-horse-shelters.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="Which Horse Shelter Should You Use?" />Horses are intelligent and curious animals. In a stall, they often do not have as much activity and exercise as they need. With a run-in shed, they have more space to explore. This increases their chances to entertain themselves throughout the day. Horses are happier and less prone to acting out than horses who spend their time in stalls.
Out in the paddock, they can range around to find the best grass, run to get exercise, and check out everything of interest. They can interact with other horses to keep from getting lonely or bored.
Con: Less Protection from the Weather
During times of the year when poor weather is likely, a run-in shed may not provide enough protection. Cold winter weather and heavy rains can be unpleasant or even dangerous for horses.
Because sheds are typically portable, they might not provide the strength and protection of brick-and-mortar set-ups. Owners will have to watch weather conditions to ensure their horses are protected, safe, and warm.
Ensuring That Horses Have the Right Space for Them
Horses are highly individual, and different ones will thrive in different conditions. Sometimes, a horse's needs will vary from one part of the year to another. Some horse owners opt for a run-in shed during the most temperate times of year but use horse stalls during rainy, colder weather. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/how-to-build-a-san-diego-luxury-stable/">Building a custom luxury stable</a> perfect for the horses one plans to keep can be an exciting endeavor. By assessing a horse's needs and available space, horse owners can figure out the best way to keep their horse happy and safe.
2021-11-30T11:01:00-07:002022-03-09T12:58:11-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:182153 Benefits of Short-Term Rentals<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/benefits-of-short-term-rentals.jpg" alt="What Are the Benefits of Short Term Rentals?" width="475" />In recent years, short-term rentals have become one of the best <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/real-estate-investment-types/">types of real estate investments</a>. However, investors aren't the only ones to enjoy them. Corporate and family trips characterized by weekly or weekend stays coincide well with short-term rentals. The theme is to have fun and enjoy a new setting without spending too much on expensive lodging. Hotels attempt to offer a home-like experience through quality amenities and entertainment options. However, hotel rooms can slowly degrade your budget, not leaving much to spend on activities during your vacation.
<a href="https://brotherlyloveproperties.com/locations-where-we-buy-houses/" target="_blank">Brotherly Love Real Estate</a> stated, “Short-term rentals work great for both the guests and hosts. People get a more comfortable stay, and the homeowners can provide a unique experience for travelers.” The popularity of short-term rentals continues to increase as people become more tech-savvy and start to travel more. Travelers are looking for unique aspects to add to their trips, such as a fun short-term rental stay.
Looking for the best blend of homey comforts and vacation amenities? Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of short-term rentals.
High-Quality Lodging
Short-term rentals share nothing in common with two-star or one-star hotel guestrooms. Websites like Airbnb vet hosts who offer lodging on their platforms. The quality of short-term rentals is driven by this and by reviews that hosts give guests who have stayed there before you. If there’s a low-quality Airbnb, it typically doesn’t last long on the platform.
Short-term rental rooms are well-kept, with countless amenities and entertainment options standard with high-end five-star hotels. You’re getting the luxury and comfort you desire for the weekend or weekly stay without stretching your budget. Your temporary stay doesn’t come with noise nuisances either. By selecting an "entire house," you can make sure that you’re the only one staying at your short-term rental unit. Don’t expect anything close to 1-star accommodation features.
Customize Your Stay
Short-term stays don’t have strict time frame guidelines. Property owners don’t follow a specific rental timeframe, which is different from the norm that long-term rentals follow. It’s exclusively your duty to decide the stay period and terms. Based solely on your terms, you can agree with the landlord on how long you will stay in the room. Therefore, you’re at liberty to customize your stay in that favorite short-term rental home to your comfort and luxury preferences.
Fully Furnished Property
The rental price covers the furnishings and appliances in the selected short-term rental home. It makes traveling a breeze because your rental comes equipped with all that you need to get settled quickly and efficiently. You’ll find everything ready, including the kitchen appliances, furniture, and other supplies, to ensure that your stay is comfortable. Even if you’re staying for a month or two, you’ll find your room fully furnished and equipped. If possible, research the property and ask for the most recent pictures of the rental space you’re eyeing to know if it meets your preferences.
Make The Most of Your Short-Term Rentals
The debate between short-term vs. long-term rentals has lasted for decades and would probably last forever. Each stands out in its own way, but short-term rentals carried the day for obvious reasons in today's post. Many features and qualities attract people to short-term rentals, as outlined above. As a premier tourist destination, there are many great <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/6-reasons-to-purchase-a-vacation-rental-in-san-diego/">reasons to purchase a vacation rental in San Diego</a>.
Whatever your motivation is for considering a short-term rental, research is key to finding the best fit based on your preferences and needs. Research everything to get more explicit details of the rental home's quality, condition, and suitability. A quick search through Craigslist, Airbnb, and other trusted vacation rental websites would inform your lease decision.2021-11-26T14:11:00-07:002022-03-10T12:25:24-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:16337Tips for Horse Owners: Design a Luxury Shelter at Home<img src="/userFiles/532/image/designing-luxury-stable.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Ideas for Designing a Luxury Horse Stable" />
Horseback riding is one of the biggest perks of owning an <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-county-horse-property-homes/" title="San Diego County Horse Property Homes For Sale">equestrian property</a>. Many people board their horses at a <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/luxury-stables-to-board-your-horse-at-in-san-diego/" title="Best Luxury Stables in San Diego">local luxury stables</a>. These establishments are excellent for caring for animals when the owners don't have enough space on-site. However, if you own a luxury horse property, you may want to design a lavish stable to match your estate. In general, the average animal stalls in stables in the U.S. are about 12 by 12 square feet, but a stable of the highest class can feature booths around 14 by 14 square feet or larger.
These top-of-the-line stables generally have stalls equipped with stylish barriers, luxury flooring, premium ventilation, exquisite lighting, and advanced feeding and watering systems. Looking to improve the accommodations of your horse? Keep reading for tips to design a luxury stable.
Explore Various Types of Stalls
Stalls are the heart of a stable, and creating a sense of luxury begins with choosing the suitable wood. The most durable, attractive, and extravagant choices for stall construction are dense domestic hardwoods and exotic hardwoods that hold up well to animal kicks, heavy traffic, and the elements.
Oak, douglas fir, and mahogany are the top domestic selections for stalls. Exotics like Brazilian hardwood, zebrawood, and burl species are popular with luxury stable designers. The size of stalls is wholly dependent on the animal, its breed, and other factors. However, making sure they have plenty of room and then some extra is by far more luxurious.
The inclusion of runout to exterior spaces is a nice feature that allows animals to take advantage of warm, sunny days. Depending on the temperament of animals in the stalls, grills that are partial and airy provide a more high-class feel, but solid walls can be a better choice if different species and multiple owners share the stable. You'll also have to evaluate the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/building-horse-shelters-pros-cons-stalls-vs-run-in-sheds/">pros and cons of stalls and run-in sheds</a> before building.
Including Automatic Feeding and Watering Systems
Cool, clear <a href="https://aaep.org/horsehealth/cool-clear-water" target="_blank">water is the most vital nutrient to horses</a>. This means making sure the stable's inhabitants have plenty of clean, fresh water readily available for them to survive and flourish. In warm climates, water can rapidly generate harmful algae that cause illness. Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes that may carry West Nile Virus. This disease can mainly result in severe equestrian illness and fatalities, according to the World Health Organization. Having automatic watering systems in a luxury stable keeps these problems at bay and saves time and resources.
Food is essential, but keeping it regulated can pose challenges. However, automatic feeding and watering systems designed for stables benefit both animals, owners, and those tending to the stable work. While automatic feeders can be set with timers and release ordered amounts of food on-demand, automated watering systems have even more significant benefits.
Invest in a Tack Room & Grooming Stall
Grooming livestock and stable animals is essential to keep them healthy and happy. Any luxury stable design needs a dedicated grooming stall and a tack room to make grooming more manageable, whether boarders, trainers, or only owners have animals housed there.
If multiple people store equipment, offer them privacy with a dedicated space with a divided tack room. Don't skimp on having a tack room for private use, as they keep costly supplies safe and easily accessible.
Grooming stalls should have no more than 12 feet of width for 17 h.h. Warmbloods, while miniature ponies won't need this much cross-tie space. Even while lavishness is the goal, too large an area could pose dangers to animals and their caregivers.
Effective Ventilation Options for Luxury Stables
A stable ventilation setup reduces heat, sweating animals, and evaporating water from trough areas. Increasing airflow in stables helps both humans and creatures breathe better and feel more comfortable.
High ceilings are excellent, along with the installation of big fans, vents, louvers, strategically placed doors, and windows that expel hot air and allow stale air to inherently escape. Louvers along walls, eaves, roofs, and on windows add to the rustic charm of the stables and allow natural lighting to enter, as well.
The inclusion of a modern, high-tech ventilation system will not only work more efficiently, but these smart systems can sense any issues with air quality or availability and automatically adjust to rectify them right away. Studies have shown numerous benefits of mechanical ventilation systems in stables and barns, such as reducing allergens, particulates, ammonia, and CO2.
State-of-the-Art Lighting for Stables
Overhead lighting that broadcasts illumination over large areas like workspaces, wash stalls, grooming areas, walkways, and main entryways is necessary for any stable. Those seeking premium and attractive options that are also efficient should consider installing solar power LED lights on the roof.
Fluorescent bulbs connected to electronic ballasts can be costly, but they operate more quietly and flicker less than less expensive ballast options. Motion sensor lighting enhances safety as well as makes night use of stables feasible.
Choosing High-Quality Flooring for Stables
Sand, porous asphalt, rubber pavers, and interlocking mats are prevalent in stables and are suitable even in high-class stable settings. However, this critical design component is a surface animals will stand on more than anywhere else.
A luxury stable should have the best flooring possible. Two slip-resistant and anti-microbial materials that promote animals' health are troweled rubber and Padenpor DLX.
Both are constructed from recycled rubber and create an attractive and seamless floor that helps reduce leg impacts like shock and concussions. They last for years, can withstand heavy foot and hoof traffic. They can be cleaned quickly and resurfaced if needed.
Considering Building a Custom Luxury Stable?
Whether you're an avid keeper of animals like horses or show species or plan to board or train someone else's livestock, a luxurious stable is something to be appreciated by users and animal occupants alike. Be sure to discuss plans with several local barns and stable designers. Check reviews and get several estimates to find the best builder who understands the need to create a premier showpiece stable for the property.
2021-11-18T09:26:00-07:002022-03-09T12:52:15-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:16256Horse Boarding in San Diego: 4 Luxury Stables Near You<img src="/userFiles/532/image/luxury-stables-for-boarding-san-diego.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Luxury Stables Near San Diego" />
Many people are surprised to learn that <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-homes-for-sale/">San Diego homes</a> are located in "horse country." Although the county is home to more than 3.3 million residents, there are many open spaces, state parks, and backcountry trails for people to go horseback riding. Thanks to the sunny Southern California climate, endurance racing and other competitive equine events are extremely popular year-round. And living in the big city doesn't mean anyone is excluded from these activities. <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/how-to-build-a-san-diego-luxury-stable/">Designing a horse shelter</a> can be a lot of work, but thankfully there are great options that already exist. Keep reading to learn about a few luxurious stables in San Diego with boarding options for horse owners.
Creek Hollow Ranch
The <a href="https://www.creekhollowranch.com/" target="_blank">Creek Hollow Ranch</a> is a 350-acre working equestrian ranch located just a few miles east of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The ranch has several wooded and open trails for horse owners to ride along or train for their next equestrian event. The ranch has more than two dozen pastures for its boarding guests to enjoy the sunshine and run around out in the open during the day. The pastures have shade trees, well-kept fences, and shelters that allow the horses to get out of the occasional rain shower.
Creek Hollow Ranch employs three professional trainers to provide everything from beginning horseback lessons to advanced equestrian events. The facility is available to rent for equestrian events and clinics, although reservations need to be made well in advance.
Amenities for horses at Creek Hollow Ranch include:
Main Barn: 18 deluxe 12x18 stalls; comfort flooring; hot water wash racks; and three adjacent paddocks for monitored turnout.
Mare Motel: 12x24 and 24x24 stalls; half-covered California stalls with fully covered walkways; and 6' welded wire fencing.
Blanketing, turnouts, and bathing are provided for all boarded horses, in addition to feeding (up to four flakes of hay daily plus owner-provided feed). The barns and stalls are cleaned daily and the pastures twice weekly.
Rancho El Camino Equestrian
<a href="https://ranchoelcamino.com/" target="_blank">Rancho El Camino Equestrian</a> is located just across I-5 from the Del Mar Fairgrounds and the Hilton San Diego/Del Mar. The ranch is one of the most prominent locations in the San Diego area for equestrian training and riding lessons. It also provides luxury stabling for horses.
Most of the grounds at Rancho El Camino Equestrian are taken up by the various training areas. It features a Hunter/Jumper sand ring, a dressage sand ring, a lunging and all-purpose arena, a trail arena, and more.
For boarding, Rancho El Camino Equestrian has a variety of stall sizes in its mare motel and the Western barn. It has 12x24 attached or separated stalls, 16x24 separated stalls, and 24x24 separated stalls. Every booth features plush shavings and is cleaned daily by the staff. Boarding includes twice-daily feeding with the owner's choice of Bermuda or alfalfa hay. Owners boarding their horses at Rancho El Camino Equestrian also have access to all the riding and training arenas, tack storage, and wash racks.
Thinking about upgrading to a private property for your horses? View all <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/san-diego-county-horse-property-homes/">equestrian properties in San Diego County</a>.
San Pasqual Valley Ranch
<img src="/userFiles/532/image/boarding-horses-near-san-diego.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="Luxury Stables Near San Diego" />The <a href="http://www.callspvr.com/index.html" target="_blank">San Pasqual Valley Ranch</a> is located near the wineries in the San Pasqual Valley, just west of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This ranch has state-of-the-art facilities and provides easy access to many miles of comfortable and scenic trails in the valley. Parking a horse trailer or turning it around is accessible on this spacious facility.
The San Pasqual Valley Ranch accommodates both English and Western riders. The ranch has both a rodeo arena and two sand arenas, as well as three round pens. The ranch also has cattle which are primarily used for rodeo horseback training and events. The "cattle club" provides weekly training for team sorting, penning, and roping. There are also annual events with jackpots for barrel racing, two-person sorting, and ropings.
Luxury boarding facilities and amenities at the San Pasqual Valley Ranch include:
24x24 box stalls
12x36 "in and out" stalls with automatic fly spraying system
Plush floor shavings & daily stall cleaning
Twice-daily feedings
Wash racks & tack boxes
Automatic waterers
Wash racks
The ranch prides itself on providing "perfect footing" for horses in all accessible areas.
Encinitas Riding Club
The <a href="https://www.encinitasridingclub.com/" target="_blank">Encinitas Riding Club</a> is located north of San Diego, but English riders consider it worth the extra driving time to stable their horses in the facilities here. It features world-class equestrian training and luxury facilities for boarding horses. The Encinitas Riding Club has a new clubhouse, two full-size arenas, and viewing decks for spectators to watch the events. The club also offers easy access to many lovely riding trails in the area.
For boarding, the Encinitas Riding Club has six different barns, including a mare motel. They have regular and oversized box stalls, in and out stalls, and pipe corrals. Every booth is fitted with comfortable flooring and has fans and automatic fly spray systems.
Additional amenities at the Encinitas Riding Club include:
Eight tack rooms and 18 cross-ties (all are covered or shaded)
Five wash racks with hot water
Indoor laundry facility
6-horse walker with a covered roof (allows exercise even during rainy weather)
Grass pastures for turnout
Luxury Stables Await in San Diego
When San Diego horse owners want to provide the very best stabling options for their animals, plenty of options are available. The popularity of equestrian, rodeo and endurance events makes luxury facilities like the ones listed above possible in San Diego County.
2021-11-11T12:45:00-07:002021-11-30T11:08:47-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:15170Showing Partners: The Key Advantage For Buyers
Homes are flying off the market quick...
You don't want to miss out on viewing potential dream homes if your agent is tending to another client, out of town, or simply just sick. That's why we have what we call Showing Partners. Showing Partners allow your agent to be in more than one place at a time. They are able to give you access to homes with the same knowledge and expertise as the agent if and when they are unavailable.
So make sure you are getting the most access possible by asking about Showing Partners when looking for the right agent for you. They will give you the greatest advantage in this highly competitive market. 2021-08-18T10:17:00-07:002021-08-18T10:42:09-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:13950Why Homebuyers Should Consider Commute Times Before Making an Offer<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/san-deigo-commute.jpg" alt="Before Buying a Home, Learn Everything You Can About Commutes" width="475" />Before putting in an offer on that dream house, it's important to consider what a daily commute might look like in terms of distance or time. Many people are surprised to find that rush hour traffic on either end of a day might look very different from what it does during off-peak hours or weekends. Here are several considerations to make before purchasing a house that might involve long commutes to work.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.
Healthy Work-Life Balance
Every year, the average commuting individual spends <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/10/07/nine-days-road-average-commute-time-reached-new-record-last-year/" target="_blank">at least a week on the road</a>. Many spend considerably more than that. Just think about that for a second. The daily time some people spend commuting might exceed their annual vacation hours. That's a lot of hours that take away from a healthy work-life balance.
Commutes are Sometimes Expensive
Aside from draining precious hours every week that could be better used toward work-life balance, commute times can also equate to more expense. Whether driving or using public transportation, commute times can be costly. Expenses involved can include:
Cost of gas
Car maintenance and repairs
Auto insurance rates
Cost of public transportation
Parking costs at a public transit station or workplace
Also, see if employers offer any compensation for commutes (some do). Once all the expenses are gathered, do a cost analysis. Compare driving with using public transportation to see what the difference may be. Then do the same analysis for a home in a different community that is closer to the workplace. Does the home you're considering make the commute worth the expense?
Tips to Evaluate if the House is Worth the Commute
Before committing to a property, even one you love, take time to evaluate the commute to see if the tradeoff is truly worth it.
Learn traffic patterns. Make a test run during commute times to see what it's like. If this isn't possible, pull up Google Maps during commute times and clock the time it would take to get to and from work. Do this for several days to make an accurate assessment.
Explore different routes. The conventional way might not be the best way to get to work. Talk to a trusted real estate agent or potential new neighbors to see if they have any alternative commute options or suggestions.
Road layout. Will the commute involve highways and interstates, or does it involve several local roads with traffic lights, curves, and lower speed limits? Even a short ride may be long if it involves local roads or dangerous bends.
Weather factors. States in colder climates are usually prepared for winter, but states in warmer climates sometimes aren't. Then there are mountainous areas that can be hazardous at any given time of year regardless of region. Will an employer <a href="https://remotecanteen.com/remote-work/" target="_blank">allow remote work</a> on bad weather days?
Look at public transportation. Even long commute times can be restful when relying on public transportation (or it could be more stressful—it depends on the individual). Learn about options, how much they cost, and if the amount is cost-prohibitive, especially with a new mortgage to pay.
A house is only one part of the equation of what the best lifestyle should be—although a large one. Excessive commute times could easily disrupt life, create problems in the household (e.g., absent parents leaving the burden to their spouses), be too expensive, or lead to high personal stress levels. Commuting is one factor everyone should explore before putting in an offer and <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/a-quick-guide-to-down-payments/">making that down payment</a>.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.2021-05-17T07:25:00-07:002021-09-20T08:43:34-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:13623How to Identify and Secure 4 Hidden Hazards Around Your Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/safety-hazards-in-the-home.jpg" alt="4 Common Safety Hazards Hidden in the Home" width="475" />Homes often contain many hidden hazards, so it's important for owners to learn how to identify and remedy them. The following information examines four common home hazards and offers solutions on how to fix them.
Falls
Falls consistently top the list of the biggest hidden household hazards. Slippery surfaces, objects on the floor, and instability associated with staircases are three of the most common causes.
Loose handrails should be tightened and secured. Homeowners should install safety gates to protect small children from stairways and other areas and apply non-stick treads on uncarpeted steps. Additionally, homeowners should remove all trip hazards from floors, including toys, exercise equipment, and any other items used in common areas. Rugs with non-slip padding prevent slippery floor conditions, while spaces along interior hallways and stairways and outdoors should always be well-lit.
The CDC consistently lists falls as one of the top reasons people need ER visits. One of every five falls results in serious injury, according to statistics. Preventing common types of falls will protect everyone in the home.
Poisoning
In 2018, more than two million poisoning incidents were reported to poison control centers in the U.S. Common household items, including<a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/how-to-store-cleaning-supplies" target="_blank"> cleaning products</a>, home maintenance, and medications, can cause household poisoning accidents. To prevent these hazards:
Install child locks on all cabinets and drawers.
Ensure medications are out of the reach of children.
Use marked pill-counting containers.
Dispose of unused or expired medications.
Curious pets may also ingest poisonous substances. Keep this in mind when storing hazardous household materials.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide
Every year, hundreds of thousands of house fires and tens of thousands of accidental carbon monoxide poisonings occur in the U.S. Many of these accidents can be avoided by taking proactive prevention measures. As a bonus, some of these measures can also <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/energy-efficienty-home-improvements-san-diego/">improve home energy efficiency</a>.
Homeowners should never leave burning candles unattended and should set timers to blow them out. Additionally, there should be a designated smoking area with proper disposal containers. Unused appliances should not be plugged in, and homeowners should routinely check for frayed wires. They should periodically <a href="https://www.powertec.ca/4-reasons-you-should-always-hire-a-licensed-electrician/" target="_blank">have a professional inspect household wiring</a>, especially older wiring; sometimes switches, wires, and outlets need replacing or are not up to code.
Other common sources for house fires come from vents and ducts, so homeowners should regularly clean them for their clothes dryer. HVAC systems should also be cleaned and inspected every year.
Homeowners should install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in every bedroom and on every level of the house. Batteries need to be checked every month and changed annually (if not hardwired or packaged with a long-use lithium battery).
Lacerations
Most people don't realize how many everyday household items can cause severe lacerations. To avoid accidents that cause serious injury, ensure all sharp objects are safely stored or disposed of.
Store kitchen knives and other sharp objects safely.
Point knives and forks downward when loading the dishwasher.
Lock up bathroom sharps (like razors) or keep them up high away from children.
Keep the trash can closed and wrap up sharp cans or glass that will be recycled or thrown away.
Remember to keep outdoor areas safe as well. Safely store sharp garden tools and power tools in sheds or storage containers.
These are four common safety hazards hidden in the home. However, they're not the only hazards that exist. Home safety begins with awareness and vigilance. Knowing which hazards to identify, <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/why-proper-inspections-impact-your-buyers-decisions/">making routine inspections</a>, and quickly fixing problems will go a long way towards accident prevention.2021-04-19T08:45:00-07:002021-05-12T10:03:14-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:13501These Smart Tech Features Increase Home Value—Does Yours Have Them?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/best-smart-tech-home-upgrades.jpg" alt="5 Smart Tech Upgrades to Boost a Home's Appeal to Potential Buyers" width="475" />Homeowners looking to increase their home's value can consider investing in smart tech features. While many <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/easy-home-improvements-buyers-look-for/">home renovation projects</a> don't add much of a return on investment (ROI), smart home features typically add worth. As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to grow, people can essentially connect everything in their households to boost convenience and security.
Once connected, all that's needed is a push of a button, a voice command, or a smartphone to use as a “remote control.” The best smart tech upgrades to consider adding to homes right now include the following options.
Smart Thermostats: Convenient Energy Management
In 2018, a smart-home survey revealed 77 percent of potential homebuyers wanted smart thermostats. Current data support these findings; this year, smart thermostats are among the three leading technologies desired in a home.
The appeal is easy to see. Smart thermostats not only adjust to occupants' energy consumption, but they can also be programmed or controlled remotely with a smart device. The best thing for homeowners? It's not an expensive device and, for the most part, brings a full ROI.
Smart Security: Keeping a Home Safe Remotely
Smart security features are also one of the top features buyers seek. Roughly 65 percent want <a href="https://porch.com/advice/home-security-system-what-every-homeowner-know" target="_blank">smart security cameras</a>, security locks, and doorbells. Security cameras and smart doorbells allow buyers to see and communicate with anyone who visits their home, even if the homeowner isn't there. The locks provide more flexibility by giving trusted people ways to enter the house without worrying about a key and keeping homeowners informed of any forced entry.
Nearly 75 percent of buyers want smart smoke alarms. Having an alarm controlled by phone makes it easier to stop a false alarm and provides notifications. Adding any or all of these security features typically yields a strong ROI.
Smart LED Lighting: Reliable and Easy Home Lighting
LED lighting is reliable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting. Add “smartness” to the equation, and homeowners have a hugely desired feature in their homes should they decide to sell. Like other smart tech, homeowners can control this lighting remotely.
Accidentally left the lights on? No problem, turn them off from an app. Want to make it look as if someone's home? Flick them back on from afar using the same app. Smart LED lighting is energy-efficient, and the bulbs are steadily coming down in price, making them a sound investment after installation.
Smart Appliances: Making Chores Simpler
Most people don't tote their appliances when they move, so the appliances in a house are one feature buyers will carefully examine. Smart appliances are one of the best tech enhancements a homeowner can make. Consider upgrading:
Washers
Dryers
Refrigerators
Dishwashers
Most smart appliances are energy-efficient (look for the <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/products/smart_home_tips/smart_appliances" target="_blank">ENERGY STAR</a> label) and add a significant level of convenience when performing daily chores in the home, making them an appealing upgrade. For example, a smart refrigerator might allow grocery shoppers to check the contents of the fridge remotely. Smart washers, driers, and dishwashers respond to voice controls and send up-to-date notifications.
Automated Blinds and Curtains: Effortless Light Control and Insulation
Automated blinds and curtains add convenience and security. Still, many people might also file this home feature under the “coolness” factor, as they look great and easily catch a buyer's eye. Imagine being able to wake up in the morning and tell the blinds to raise themselves through the automated home voice system. In addition to the convenience, the blinds might offer light filtration or heat management to ensure comfort. They also can yield a decent ROI.
So, Is Smart Tech Worth It?
Smart technology continues to grow in popularity and, moving forward, many homeowners are going to find the appeal in these types of home upgrades as they assimilate into daily living and become the “new normal.”
Not all home upgrades are worth the time, energy, and money put into them, but smart tech usually doesn't fall into this category. Real estate agents consistently say buyers are willing to pay more money for smart features in homes. For sellers, smart tech isn't a bad upgrade because most find they can recoup their smart tech investment by more than 50 percent. In the meantime, they can enjoy the benefits smart tech brings into their lives before selling their homes.2021-04-12T09:05:00-07:002021-04-26T10:42:17-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:13436Sustainable Technology and Its Advantages in Residential Construction<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/sustainable-home-tech.jpg" alt="Concepts in Sustainable Building: Trends, Materials and Practices" width="475" />Homebuyers and construction professionals have begun to embrace more concepts of sustainability and responsibility when building new homes. Thanks to the growing affordability and access to eco-friendly materials and more intelligent technology, going green has never been easier. The following information explores sustainable building technology and its advantages in residential construction.
What Exactly Is Sustainability in Home Building?
Statistics estimate that 35–40 percent of carbon monoxide emissions are attributable to the construction industry as a whole. These numbers are why the concept of sustainable building has come to the forefront in consumers' and contractors' minds. Eco-friendly home building aims to minimize the waste and energy expended during construction and put forth the greatest efforts possible to utilize biodegradable and renewable products.
Another aspect of creating a sustainable home is establishing a green home environment. Here are some concepts that builders are employing today to help ensure the least damage possible is suffered by both the planet and the home's occupants.
Using Biodegradable Materials in Home Construction
Biodegradable materials are classified in three ways: those <a href="https://www.tileclub.com/collections/recycled-glass-tile" target="_blank">crafted from recyclables</a>, those that can be recycled post-use, and those that do not harm the environment during their creation. Some affordable ways to incorporate their use in construction and remodeling are to consider:
No or low-VOC carpeting and paints
Using green insulation
Eco-friendly flooring and countertops
Inquire with potential builders about their experience and propensity to use such products during the building process. According to Antonia Ko, from the no-waste-living blog <a target="_blank" class="c-link" data-stringify-link="http://EscapeWaste.com" delay="150" data-sk="tooltip_parent" href="http://escapewaste.com/" tabindex="-1" data-remove-tab-index="true">EscapeWaste.com</a>, a property incorporating the zero-waste principles can benefit from a large jump in property value.
Install Smart Appliances
Smart appliances tend to ultimately use less energy, run more efficiently, and offer homeowners a tremendous level of control over their systems remotely. Smart devices such as ovens, refrigerators, heating and cooling systems, laundry machines, and much more can be operated via a central hub in the home that connects to the owner's smart device of choice.<br />
Curb Cooling Costs with Cool Roofing Technology
The most recent home roofing innovation involves using a particular type of material that deflects sunlight and repels heat. This process is the realm of <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/design/energy-efficient-home-design/cool-roofs" target="_blank">cool roofing</a>, a technology that can lower cooling costs by as much as 50 percent, say the experts at the Department of Energy. The materials used for cool roofing installations are recyclable upon replacement, boosting their sustainability value.
Keep Warmth Indoors with Green Insulation
Green insulation is far more sustainable than traditional fiberglass options. By choosing blow-in methods that employ recycled materials such as denim or cellulose, buyers help minimize their impact on the environment. Furthermore, these materials can be recycled again, reducing space taken in landfills.
Maximize on Mother Nature: Go Solar
Active and passive solar power are some of the best ways to reduce energy expenses and impact the environment. In passive solar power installations, unique windows are placed on southward walls to capture the sun's heat. Often, these systems are supplemented with PV panels to employ a combination of both passive and active methods.
Active solar utilizes photovoltaic panels, tape, or other methods located outside the home (typically the roof or ground). Active solar installations can pay owners back if the system captures extra power, which can then be resold to energy providers for cash or credit. Be sure to consider <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/buyer-solar-vs-leasing-it-what-should-you-do-if-you-want-to/">buying vs. leasing your solar</a>.
Considering Building an Earth-Conscious Home?
These upgrades are a great place to start the home construction or remodeling journey, as they can easily be implemented into a new construction project when you work with a builder familiar with sustainable practices from start to finish. Consider the <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/3-advantages-of-buying-a-smaller-home/" blog="" 3-advantages-of-buying-a-smaller-home="">advantages of smaller homes</a> to minimize the impact on both the environment and your wallet.2021-04-05T11:10:00-07:002021-11-09T09:14:52-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2309Why Proper Inspections Impact Your Buyer's Decisions<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/home-inspection-tips.jpg" alt="Home Inspection Safety Tips" width="475" />A big part of purchasing a home is doing your due diligence and properly investigating the substantial purchase you are making. Upon opening up escrow on your new home, you will begin to receive disclosure documents of the seller knowledge of the home (repairs, remodels, etc.) since they have owned it. In addition to the seller disclosures, you will also have the right to hire an inspector of your choosing to fully inspect the home for you. This is a very crucial part of the home buying process.
<img src="/userFiles/532/image/house_inspected.jpg" style="margin: 15px auto; display: block;" alt="Getting a Home Inspection" />
Don't Ever Think of Skipping Your Property Inspection
I just went through an escrow where the buyer chose not to get a professional home inspection (I represented the seller). It wasn't the first time I see that happen but I just can't ever believe anyone would even dream of releasing contingencies with out one.
Buyers, Attention Please! Get a home inspection every time you purchase real estate! Got that? Good.
The Value of Getting a Home Inspection
The inspection is one of the greatest protections that you have as a buyer. It is your opportunity to inspect the property inside and out with the help of a professional. The benefits of this can't be over stated.
A home inspection will help you figure out what you are pouring hundreds of thousands of dollars into. Buying real estate is a serious matter and you should be taking every precaution.
Best of all, it will give you real grounds under which to negotiate repairs from the seller. The seller find it difficult to argue with the findings of a professional home inspector. At least that's how it works here with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/">San Diego County homes</a> and most other places I know of.
Inspections Reduce Buyer Risk
In fact, it is so important that you do get a professional home inspection, and so crazy not to, that if I am involved in a deal where the buyer opts to not do an inspection I make sure that they sign a legal document that proves that I encouraged them to get one. I don't want that coming back to bite me in the behind when there is something wrong with their property that they never found as a result of passing on their right to inspect the property.
Thinking about it as a right is actually a great way to think about your professional home inspection. It really is a right. Giving up your right to the home inspection is like giving up your right to free speech. It's just crazy.
Forgoing the Inspection Trades Short-Term Cost for Long-Term Risk
I assume some buyers pass on the professional home inspection because it can run a few hundred dollars. Well that is just nothing compared to the thousands of dollars in problems you can avoid by figuring out what is under the hood before you buy. I guess these are probably the same people that opt to not have care and health insurance (and can afford it).
Stupid is how I would describe those people. That is not a camp you want to be in.
Crushing San Diego Home Inspection Myths
Home inspections for any real estate purchase or sale are one of the most important things that need to be done. We recommend that any San Diego home buyer get an inspection done and to always make sure that it is from a professional and outstanding company that has a proven track record of doing great work and is part of one of the two California trade associations for home inspectors.
For us at the Daniel Beer Group, the gold standard in home inspection companies is John Robinson Inspection Group, but, whoever you choose to work with, make sure that you are working with an excellent home inspector.
Common Home Inspection Myths
Here are a few common home inspection myths to be aware of:
Not all home inspectors and certification programs are created equal.
Should both newer and old homes be inspected?
What exactly is covered during a home inspection?
Making sure you are working with a neutral third-party inspector that is giving an objective and fair analysis of their findings.
Understanding that after a home inspection and a repair request process that there may still be (and likely will be) some items left to be addressed.
Understanding the relationship between your inspection report and the value of your home.
Why Proper Home Inspections are So Critical
A big part of purchasing a home is doing your due diligence and properly investigating the substantial purchase you are making. Upon opening up escrow on your new home, you will begin to receive disclosure documents of the seller's knowledge of the home (repairs, remodels, etc.) since they have owned it. In addition to the seller disclosures, you will also have the right to hire an inspector of your choosing to fully inspect the home for you. This is a very crucial part of the home buying process.
Home Inspection Horror Stories: How an Inspection Protects You
A few months back, I opened escrow with a client on a home off the I-15 corridor. The home appeared to be turn-key and in good condition. The home was nicely staged and had beautiful cosmetic upgrades throughout, including a new kitchen and flooring. My client was drawn to the home’s new materials and color scheme. We opened escrow and were able to negotiate favorable terms. We then received disclosures documenting all the
Work that had been done to the home and it turned out the home had been an investment. The sellers had bought the home and converted the dated older construction into the modernized floor plan we were now seeing.
During the inspection appointment, the inspector noted HVAC, plumbing, and electrical were in all good working order. However, while walking through the home and doing some further testing, the inspector determined that the flooring seemed uneven. As such he recommended that it be further inspected by a licensed foundation expert. A few days later, we sent out a foundation expert to complete the evaluation of the uneven flooring. During his inspection, the expert informed us that the home needed an entirely new foundation platform (the estimated bid came in around $60,000!). Naturally, the buyer was shell-shocked and worried about backing out of escrow and the purchase agreement thus losing his deposit.
At the end of the day, the buyer did back out and moved forward with another home that their entire family is now enjoying. They continue to speak of how bad of a money pit the other home could have been and greatly appreciated the inspection process.
Due to his rights as a buyer, the faulty foundation inspection discovery occurred while he was 100% protected by the 17-day contingency period. During this timeframe, a buyer is free to do all of their own independent inspections and investigations. Because our buyer had not removed this important inspection contingency, the only funds he was out of pocket were for his inspection fees, which ultimately had proven to be very well spent. The inspection had provided a safety net that helped him make a well-informed decision to pass on this purchase and look for another home.
Contact Us for Help With Your Next Home Purchase
Please do not hesitate to call our office regarding the importance of inspections and due diligence that can lead a buyer down the road to either a good or bad investment. We can be reached at 858-367-9290.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/Brians_Headshot.jpg" width="159" height="208" alt="Brian Danney" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Brian Danney<br />Buyer Specialist<br />858-465-79092021-03-18T07:21:00-07:002021-07-27T06:38:33-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:1727Making a Down Payment for a House? 4 Strategies to Get Ahead<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/down-payment-info.jpg" alt="Down Payment Tips" width="950" height="713" />The first steps toward <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/buying/">buying a new home</a> aren't attending open houses and pouring over online listings. The first step toward home ownership is preparing yourself financially for the commitment of buying a home.
Speak with your lender or a financial advisor to see what kind of down payment makes sense for your financial situation.
Why Do Lenders Require a Down Payment?
One reason lenders require a down payment is that they want to be certain that the borrower is financially invested in the home. In a lender's mind, the larger the down payment, the less likely a buyer is to go into foreclosure on the loan.
How Much Down Payment Do You Need?
Down payments may vary by lender and program. A variety of financing options are available from conventional mortgages to <a href="http://usmortgagecalculator.org/comparing-fha-va-conventional-jumbo-and-usda-loans/" target="_blank">government insured FHA and VA loans</a>.
A 20 percent down payment is usually the industry standard for a conventional loan. For example, a 20% down payment on a $300,000 home would be $60,000. While this can seem like a lot of money, a significant down payment creates instant equity and the buyer will, in most cases, not be required to purchase private mortgage insurance thus saving money on their monthly payments.
A lower down payment of 5 to 10 percent is sometimes possible, but will often require mortgage insurance. Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, will drive up the monthly payment but protects the lender in case of foreclosure. Once the loan to value ratio is 80 percent, you may ask to have it discontinued and the monthly payment will drop accordingly.
An FHA loan may allow some buyers to have a down payment as low as 3.5 percent. An FHA loan is a popular choice for potential homeowners who may not have stellar credit or a large enough down payment for a conventional loan. These loans are insured by the government and the borrower will pay mortgage insurance directly to the program.
Saving For the Down Payment
While a 20 percent down payment is seen as standard and allows you to avoid the extra cost of PMI in most cases, that much cash can be hard to come by. You may decide to pay it from your own savings or from the proceeds of a previous home sale. When neither of those options are available, some buyers obtain their down payment through other methods:
<a href="https://www.edconstable.com/understanding-down-payment-gifts-when-you-buy-a-house/" target="_blank">Getting a gift from family or friends</a>. Depending on the kind of loan you are seeking, all or part of the down payment may be able to come from gift money. At a minimum, the gift giver will typically need to provide a gift letter to show that the money is not a loan. The letter should include the donor's address, relationship to the recipient, the dollar amount and date of gift, and the address of the property to be purchased. Depending on the type of loan and borrower's credit score, the donor may also have to provide a bank statement.
Move in with friends or family to start saving. If the people in your life have enough space, moving in with them temporarily can allow you to save the money you would normally spend on rent and other monthly expenses.
Downsize the home you are searching for or check out other neighborhoods or areas. If your dream house is financially out of reach, work with your real estate agent to find a suitable home in another location or area. A less expensive home means a smaller down payment.
Down Payment Assistance Strategies for First-Time Home Buyers
First-time homebuyers in most states can quality for a variety of public and private grants or loans. They include:
Forgivable second mortgages at 0% interest to fund the full amount of an FHA down payment, usually 3.5%. They can be forgiven by the lender in as few as five years, but may be written for a longer term.
Deferred-payment loans to cover the down payment, at zero interest, must only be repaid when you sell the home and move or refinance a mortgage. Then they must be repaid in full.
If you can qualify for a larger monthly payment, you might be eligible for a second loan at the same rate as your first mortgage. Available directly from various lenders, a lump sum is used for the down payment, and the outstanding balance is repaid monthly.
Individual development accounts, sometimes known as matched savings programs require a home buyer to make a deposit that is typically matched by a bank, government agency or community organization. The funds are then used as a down payment.
Finally, the VA loan, initially designed to help military veterans buy homes after World War II, requires no money down and also has some additional advantages. If you served in any branch of the military and have an honorable discharge or are still on active duty, you are most likely eligible for a zero down payment loan at a favorable interest rate. You will pay no mortgage insurance because the loan is guaranteed by the federal government, and veterans are exempt from certain other closing costs.
Always check with lenders about available options, and search for the best available interest rates and mortgage terms before committing to a specific mortgage package.
Start Saving for Your Home Down Payment Today!
In some cases, down payment assistance may be available through your employer or special programs. Lenders are well versed in these programs and can help prospective homeowners find those that are the best fit for their unique situation.
Once you <a href="https://bankinggeek.com/en/personal-finance-tips/" target="_blank">understand where you are financially</a>, you will be able to more effectively narrow down the homes and neighborhoods that will be a great fit for you and your needs.2021-03-15T12:15:00-07:002021-09-20T08:47:16-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:13242Which of These 5 Real Estate Investment Types Fits Your Goals?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/real-estate-investment-types.jpg" alt="5 Real Estate Investments to Consider" width="475" />Real estate is one of the oldest and most trusted forms of investment. Many investors are drawn to it because of the tangible state of the asset—it's one that you can see, visit, and improve to increase its worth. Property for real estate investment comes in a number of forms. Each has its own barriers to entry and its own potential for a return. Understanding each type of the following real estate investments can help investors choose the one that fits their circumstances, skills, and goals.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.
Residential Real Estate Investing
This is, for many real estate investors, the first type of real estate they pick. Residential properties include single-family homes, duplexes and triplexes, and <a href="https://limaone.com/best-rental-markets-in-the-us/" target="_blank">multi-family properties</a> like apartment buildings.
A single-family home is often the easiest property for people to begin their investment efforts. People who buy a fixer-upper that they intend to live in while rehabbing and then later sell can often receive more favorable financing.
When purchasing a piece of real estate with the intention of flipping it, buyers should confirm it is worth the effort it will take to increase its worth. Many new investors underestimate the costs associated with <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/easy-home-improvements-buyers-look-for/">improving a property</a>. They also sometimes overestimate what they can DIY effectively. Tip: browsing through pre-selling sites like <a href="https://precondo.ca" target="_blank">Precondo</a> is a good way to do your comparison when it comes to investing and flipping residential condominium units.
Multi-family properties are often more expensive than single-family homes. They will also often require different kinds of financing because they are investments instead of owner-occupied homes.
Mixed-Use Properties
More and more areas are introducing zoning for mixed-use properties that combine residential properties with offices or retail businesses. Many people are looking for homes like these properties because they allow for a more walkable lifestyle. Investors like them because of the built-in diversification.
When planning for mixed use, it's important for investors to ensure that it is permitted in the area. Some metro areas require that businesses be located in a different area than properties zoned only for residential use. There will also be requirements for adequate parking and other amenities.
In most cases, a property like this will involve <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/new-construction-home-buying-tips/">new construction</a>. This makes it a far more resource-intensive type of real estate investment.
Commercial Real Estate Properties
Commercial real estate comes in many forms, including standalone retail outlets, strip malls, office buildings, and more. The price points for these properties will depend on factors like location, size, building type, and condition.
Commercial real estate has many advantages for those who have the resources to invest in this property type. Commercial leases are often written for multiple years, which cuts down on the need to find new tenants. Often, the tenants are responsible for maintenance and improvements to the property.
It can, however, take longer for owners to find a new tenant when a commercial building has a vacancy. Commercial businesses typically have many requirements such as parking, location, and zoning restrictions that fit their business model. Because of this, it can take longer for just the right tenant to come along.
Industrial Properties
This type of commercial real estate is highly specialized. <a href="https://www.vts.com/blog/the-8-types-of-industrial-properties" target="_blank">Industrial properties</a> can include warehouses, factories, storage units, and others. This sort of special purpose real estate can generate significant profits without a lot of input or maintenance from the property owner once a tenant has been found.
Often, tenants for these sorts of properties will stay for extended amounts of time because of the expense involved in moving their operation. This can add a great deal of stability to a real estate investment portfolio.
People who wish to invest in this sort of real estate need a strong understanding of zoning and environmental laws. The property owner is typically responsible for clean up if environmental violations occur.
Unimproved Land
This type of real estate investment can come in many sizes and types, from small lots up to massive, multi-acre tracts of land. Beginning real estate investors can pick up small plots to either build on or sell after improvement. In many cases, a small profit can be realized just by clearing brush and adding small improvements such as a dirt driveway.
When buying land, it is important to understand what is possible under the law and what is required. Zoning rules still apply even in some remote locations. Buyers will need to look at what utilities are available and the costs associated with adding them. Running electricity, water, and sewage to a property can cost tens of thousands of dollars, for example.
Like any other investment, understanding the asset is key. Potential investors should be clear about what resources they have and what their goals are for any specific property. They should understand the laws that govern their investment type, so they are not caught by surprise. Going in with as much research as possible means a better experience and a more profitable real estate investing career.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.2021-03-15T09:10:00-07:002021-07-21T09:00:03-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2191What Home Improvements Do Buyers Look For?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/home-improvement.jpg" alt="Best Home Improvements to Make Before Selling" width="475" />Over the past year, a large majority of the buyers we worked with were typically drawn towards floor plans that had upgrades throughout the home. There are certain improvements that will speak to buyers and make a difference when selling your house. However, it is important to make improvements that you will enjoy while living in the house, yet at the same time make sense financially.
Most Popular Home Improvements for Buyers
The most sought after upgrade for buyers this past year was a fresh coat of paint on the exterior and/or the interior of the home. Choosing a lighter color paint allows each room and the hallways feel much more open and inviting for buyers. There was a strong preference towards neutral and gray tone paints in the interiors of the homes. A couple of popular gray paint tone examples are Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray or Benjamin Moore Gray Mist.
Additional home improvements buyers tend to look for are clean, functional and low-maintenance landscaping. An easy-win improvement can be simply applying new mulch, even if you have no plans of changing your existing plants or trees. Adding new mulch can give the entire landscaped area a refreshed feel and is much less invasive than other options. This may be crucial in a resale as the front yard is the first impression a buyer will see before stepping foot in your home.
Another cost-effective home improvement can be adding or changing existing fixtures. Oftentimes, accessorizing your home with new fixtures can completely revive the feel of a room. Examples are changing light fixtures and ceiling fans, adding built-ins for more storage or even as simple as dressing up the cabinetry with new modern hardware.
High-ROI Home Improvements That Add Value to Your Home
It's often not necessary to spend a lot of money to add improvements that add a lot of value. Curb appeal, functional back patios, finished basements and outdoor decks are all <a href="https://www.tileclub.com/blogs/news/the-top-3-home-renovations-with-the-highest-roi" target="_blank">high ROI improvements</a> that appeal to buyers.
Buyers are also attracted to homes with well-planned storage. Open shelves in a laundry room are not only functional, but can be stylish and decorative when filled with storage baskets or creative containers to corral needed supplies.
Today's buyers appreciate open floor plans, <a href="https://nelsonkb.com/how-you-can-easily-create-the-perfect-kitchen-island/" target="_blank">kitchen islands</a> with seating, window seats in children's rooms, bathrooms with storage, and smart home options. Other cost-effective improvements that will make a big impression in a potential buyer's mind include:
Modern Electrical Updates: Dimmer switches, motion-controlled or voice-activated light fixtures in dark hallways, stairwells and the garage, toe-kick rope lighting in children's baths, and sensors, timers or solar fixtures for yard and landscape lighting.
Thoughtful Safety Improvements: Install smoke detectors in the garage and laundry room, even if not required by code; and add CO2 detectors in a room with a fireplace and in bedroom hallways.
Sustainability Features: Modern buyers want easy-to-maintain homes that are not only attractive, but eco-friendly and efficient. Features like garage recycle bins and lighting timers are always appreciated.
Safety and convenience are at least as important as style and comfort.
Buy a Home With the Beer Team
If you have questions regarding other home improvement ideas for your home or seeking vendor information, please feel free to call us at our office at 858-322-6375.
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Brian Danney
Senior Sales Executive2021-03-12T12:19:00-07:002021-11-15T10:42:52-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:130514 Tips for Buying a New Construction Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/tips-for-building-a-new-construction-home.jpg" alt="4 Considerations When Buying a New Construction House" width="475" />Buying a new construction home is a unique experience. Even if someone has bought a pre-built home in the past, they may be surprised by the overall process of building a new construction home. Before getting started, here's what buyers should know about the overall experience.
For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.
Buyers Should Know Their Goals
Before home buyers can get started with the home building process, they must first know their goals for their new home. This usually involves speaking with other members of the household to decide what they're looking for in a house. Home buyers should have questions such as:
What kind of hobbies will we be engaging in when we're in this house?
Do we want neighbors who are close, or do we want to live far from the nearest home?
Is it important to live somewhere quiet?
Do we need to live close to services like doctors and schools?
Asking (and answering) these questions are important for helping homeowners decide where they'll want to live, how big the lot should be, how many bedrooms the house should have, and so on.
Buyers Should Consider Location
Location is critically important for a newly built home. Home buyers who are deciding where to build their house should visit a variety of potential lots before picking the one that's right for them. When looking at a lot, the home buyer should assess the view, consider traffic on the road, look at the presence of trees, and understand the proximity to services and their workplace.
Before buying a lot, it's also important for buyers to <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/blog/why-proper-inspections-impact-your-buyers-decisions/">get an inspection</a> of the land. Land inspectors consider factors like the quality of the soil, air, and groundwater on the property. If there's something wrong with the land, the inspection will help the home buyer decide whether the problem needs to be remediated or if the property should not be bought at all.
Buyers Should Carefully Choose the Right Builder
The most important thing home buyers can do when buying a new construction home is to <a href="https://www.milgard.ca/blog/new-home-construction-tips-builder" target="_blank">choose a builder</a> who is right for them. When vetting contractors, home buyers should consider the builder's:
Years of experience
Style and portfolio
Proposed price
Licensure
Home buyers should meet with each potential contractor and ask them questions about the home buying process. Additionally, it's important for buyers to check the contractor's references, as this helps to determine who has a history of working well with their clients and are likely to produce quality work.
Buyers Should Work with a Real Estate Professional
Working with a real estate professional can help home buyers decide which home location is right for them. A good real estate professional can help the home buyer negotiate the price of the land and navigate the buyer through the purchase. From the vetting of different builders to the purchase of the property, a good real estate professional can make the overall new construction home purchase easier.2021-03-01T09:45:00-07:002021-03-05T07:58:48-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:6848Get Your Free Copy of “Real Estate Exposed”
Here’s what you can expect to find in my new book, “Real Estate Exposed: The Ultimate Roadmap to a More Profitable and Empowered Home Sale.”
<a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/home-evaluation/">Get Your Home Value</a>
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Recently, I published a book entitled “Real Estate Exposed: The Ultimate Roadmap to a More Profitable and Empowered Home Sale.” It’s available on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Real-Estate-Exposed-Profitable-Empowered-ebook/dp/B074CP2PJL">Amazon</a>, but don’t go and buy it just yet—I’m going to be giving it away to you for free if it will be of use to you.
"I’ve been named among the Inc. 5000 for three years in a row, and I’ve been counted among The Wall Street Journal’s top 50 teams in the country."
By reading “Real Estate Exposed,” you’ll:
• Learn proven strategies for earning top dollar on your property<br />• Learn how to avoid leaving equity in the buyer's pocket<br />• Understand how to move your buyer from a thinking state to an emotional state so you can create a negotiating advantage<br />• Learn how to use price as a weapon to enhance your home sale in any market<br />• Receive the foolproof real estate agent hiring framework so you never end up stuck with the wrong person again<br />•Learn some easy home-improvement wins<br />•Hear the truth behind staging so you can easily and affordably set up your home for the highest sales price
If you’d like a free copy of “Real Estate Exposed,” reach out to me. I’d be happy to send you a copy to help you become a more informed and empowered real estate consumer.2019-10-06T15:33:00-07:002022-08-03T14:47:14-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:412530 Year Mortgages Aren't Always Best
Getting a 10-year fixed loan instead of a 30-year fixed loan will reduce the interest you have to pay and give you more purchasing power as a homebuyer.
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A lot of homebuyers out there are chasing after the 30-year fixed mortgage, but does that make sense in your situation? Today I’ll tell you why I’ve always attained 10-year fixed terms for my loans and how this type of financing can benefit you.
I’ve always done 10-year financing because I’m aware of where I’m at in this stage of my life. When my wife and I bought our first townhome in Hillcrest, we knew we probably wouldn’t be there for 30 years—probably not even for six. Why, then, would we go with a 30-year fixed mortgage, which would raise our interest rate and reduce our purchasing power? For that property, we used a 10/1 ARM loan, and when we sold that house and bought our next one, we had the same type of loan.
The average American stays in their home for about seven to eight years, but in Southern California, the average is less than that. Why is everyone still getting 30-year fixed rate loans?
If we look at rates today in a general sense, you can get a 30-year fixed rate at about 3.75%. You can get a 10-year fixed rate, on the other hand, for about 3.1%. If I’m a homebuyer, I’m much more attracted to the latter option knowing that I probably won’t be in my home for 10 years.
"Are you defaulting to a 30-year fixed loan because that’s just what people do, or does 10-year financing make more sense in your situation?"
Even if you do stay that long, you can always refinance the loan. In fact, I’ve already refinanced my loan twice and I’ve only been in my current home for five years. As rates drop, I keep resetting my 10-year loan, so that loan in reality has extended to 14 years, all the while having a lower rate than a 30-year fixed loan because I’m watching the market and I do no-cost, no-fee refinances.
If you multiply 3.1% by 10 years plus a one-year rate of 5.1%, that 11-year blended rate is still less than what you’d pay at 3.75% for 30 years.
So the next time you buy a house, ask yourself: Are you defaulting to a 30-year fixed loan because that’s just what people do, or does 10-year financing make more sense in your situation? In my opinion, 10 years is an ideal time period for a mortgage because you have more time to plan and refinance.
There’s one last fact I want to highlight regarding refinancing. Over the last 50 years or so, interest rates have had their share of peaks and valleys, but overall they’ve been on a downward slope. We don’t know if that’s going to continue into the future, but it’s something to take note of.
If you’d like to get a quote from a lender to see if getting a 10-year loan makes sense, I know plenty of great ones I can refer you to. If we work together to buy you a home in the near future, this will be beneficial because I’ll know what your real purchasing power is.
If you have any other questions about this or any other real estate topic, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. I’d love to help you.2019-07-02T13:59:00-07:002019-07-08T14:16:10-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2378How Professional Recommendations Will Help You Avoid FrustrationsAs an experienced agent, I can confidently say that the real estate business is solely based on relationships. Many of these critical relationships are with our preferred vendors. Those of us in the real estate industry have learned that if we treat our vendors well, then they will reciprocate the efforts by bending over backward for our clients. Relationships made with our vendors are established over the course of a decade and because each relationship is reliant upon performance if the vendor does not accomplish or exceed our expectations, then, unfortunately, they will no longer be recommended for our clients in the future.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/c700x420.jpg" width="378" height="227" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /><br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />Recently, I closed a transaction with a buyer who opted to use a recommendation from a friend who is not in the home buying or selling business rather than our professional opinion, which ultimately caused much more stress and aggravation than anticipated. When the buyer and I first met at the end of this past year, I strongly encouraged them to speak to our preferred vendors—particularly my preferred lender. At that time, he had not previously aligned himself with a mortgage advisor; however, I continued to explain that "although they have competitive rates, it’s all about performance!" <br class="kix-line-break" />
Fast forwarding a few months, the buyer elected to use the lender the friend recommended and we eventually identified a home to move forward with. On the anticipated closing date, the lender was nowhere to be found and the communication between all parties went dark. The sellers became frantic, which naturally resulted in putting the buyer in an uncomfortable situation when they were sent a "Demand To Close" document laden with financial penalties. Eventually, seven days later and at additional cost to the buyer, the lender was able to perform and we closed on their property. Although the buyer is now happy and enjoying their new home, they could have avoided all of that tremendous amount of stress and adverse financial consequences by taking the advice of someone who is seasoned and knowledgeable in the field, thereby, making the home buying process much more enjoyable and stress-free.
Throughout my thirteen years of being in the real estate industry, this particular situation has happened before. Well-intentioned decisions were made based on friend's suggestions and, unfortunately, those references only left the person in need with unexpected issues that initially could have been prevented. My client, along with the others that were put in a similar situation in the past, sincerely regretted following the advice of a person who does not have experience in the real estate industry. With this in mind, I can attest with 100% accuracy that I have yet to run into a hiccup when using my preferred vendor list and this holds true particularly in the financing department. <br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />With all of this being said, it is important to trust your professional agent. If he or she is successful, knowledgeable and well-experienced, then their choice of vendors and resources will mirror these desired qualities. Our preferred vendors are carefully selected because of their superb qualifications and proven track record for a successful performance. Should you need any recommendations, please do not hesitate to reach out at 858-367-9290.
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Brian Danney
Senior Sales Executive2018-06-19T14:10:00-07:002018-06-19T15:14:21-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2353Did You Know About the Three Real Estate Agency Relationships?The market continues to heat up for both buyers and sellers with aggressive interest rates and the limited supply and high demand. A lot of buyers out there do not fully understand the types of different agency relationships that exist and their relative importance.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/432560-636427177766034759-16x9_2.jpg" width="446" height="251" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
There are essentially three types of agency relationships. The first is "Buyer Agency" which means that there are agents that exclusively represent a buyer's interest during the search and purchase process. The second the relationship is "Seller Agency" which is where listing agents exclusively represent sellers with the sale of their home. Lastly, the third relationship is "Dual Agency." “Dual Agency” is a very misconstrued relationship as these agents represent both buyers and sellers in the same transaction. In this situation, although an agent may have a listing to represent the homeowner for the sale of their home, they also are to advise and consult the prospective buyer in the same transaction. While they are professionally committed to do this, it is almost impossible.
The biggest concern that should be on the buyer’s mindset when working with the seller's agent to represent them in this "Dual Agency" is a conflict of interest. The listing agent’s responsibility is to get their sellers the highest price and best terms. What the buyer may not understand is that in order to put themselves in the best position for negotiation relative to price, repairs, and other terms, they need to have the best representation for their rights as a buyer that is in their interest exclusively. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions regarding agency relationships.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/Brian .jpg" width="109" height="141" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Brian Danney
Senior Sales Executive2018-06-01T17:11:00-07:002018-06-05T16:38:02-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2328Not Just Another Monthly Fee - The Hidden Perks of Your HOASome homeowners don’t fully understand or appreciate the importance of having a homeowners association. For all they know it is just another monthly payment that they are required to pay. However, what they don’t realize is that HOA’s can add far more value to the neighborhood. Not only do they enforce community rules and guidelines, but they also offer perks. Overall, the association protects the homeowner’s real estate investment.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/nice-neighborhood-community_2.jpg" width="422" height="273" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Standard HOA’s fees include security, common area maintenance and landscaping, water, trash and cable services, complex community amenities (i.e., gyms, pools, spas, and recreational rooms), etc. Most assume that these fees pay for the homeowner’s pro rata share for amenities; however, homeowners often forget that they have several other privileges as a member of the community. For example, HOAs can offer limited liability insurance for their home. Some complexes are required to make necessary exterior repairs so that all homes are up to code and uniform, which helps maintain home values. There are many hidden values in a home being managed by an HOA.
The biggest attribute a homeowners association can offer is that they help communities appreciate over time. Imagine a home in a community in which policies and procedures are not enforced. The surrounding homes may be neglected, poorly maintained, have unkempt landscaping and piled-up trash, or have stored vehicles in the driveway. These “eyesores” can significantly affect the value of the community.
With an HOA regulating policies, homes and their common areas are diligently preserved to a set standard. The community is clean, uniform and presents well to potential buyers who are looking to purchase a home in their community.
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Brian Danney
858-367-92902018-05-17T13:31:00-07:002018-05-24T17:25:20-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2285How to Win Multiple Negotiations When Buying a HomeOver the course of the past few months, we have seen some new trends begin to develop regarding the terms buyers are presenting to sellers. In the current market, some buyers developed a defeatist attitude as homes have often been selling above asking price. This is based on the limited supply of homes and the increased demand for them. This has forced me to be more creative in order to help buyers engage sellers and get them in the home that they desire.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/file/8ff1d207-79bd-4753-9b57-e9865c791f9d.jpg" width="430" height="249" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
We have seen over a dozen situations in which the listing agent has countered the buyers offer with the terms to remove their appraisal contingency within the offer. One key item for buyers to know is that this contingency is interconnected with the loan approval contingency. If the home in question does not appraise, then the buyer has their loan contingency to protect their interest in moving forward with the deal.
Buyers are now catching on to this trend and are presenting offers without their appraisal contingency in place out of the gate. These savvy buyers have quickly realized that they still have their loan contingency. In other words, they still have their loan contingency to ensure they are approved and can move forward with the qualification and value of the home.<br />
There have been other trends we have helped our buyers wi within the recent market conditions. Some of these include not “writing in” the buyer's home warranty into the contract (which is typically paid for by the seller), shortening the investigation contingency period to ten days or less to ensure the removal of this contingency more quickly, and to offer to pay for any additional private transfer tax fee. There are many more in addition to these. <br />
These creative strategies are what I have been utilizing to help buyers win multiple negotiations. Should you have any questions at all and would like to learn more about how to get ahead and WIN in this competitive market please call us at 858-822-6375.
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Brian Danney
Senior Sales Executive2018-04-12T12:47:00-07:002018-05-24T10:18:48-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2242What are Mello-Roos Taxes and Do They Affect Me?Unlike other states countrywide, California has a property tax of only 1% annually of a home's purchase price. However, some Californians can be faced with an additional tax called Mello-Roos. Mello-Roos calls for all newly developed areas that need cooperative homeowner financing to tax the homeowners of the community for building the necessary infrastructure of these districts. The Mello-Roos funds go toward public facilities and service needs.
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Local developers build these new communities with the expectation that they will be able to function independently. These public facilities are financed through the Mello-Roos Community Facilities District (CFD) semi-annually. Some examples include New Public Roads, Schools, Police Stations, Fire Stations, Libraries, Paramedic & Ambulance Facilities, Natural Gas Pipeline Facilities, Telephone Lines, Electrical Transmission Lines, and a government facility, which is owned and operated by local governments.
For various reasons, the tax amounts and duration can vary widely from district to district, street to street, and even house to house. Once a Mello-Roos district has bonds and funding, it then has the authority to issue the necessary public services and facilities. While each district is unique unto itself, the average bond period for a Mello-Roos bond is about 35 years. Once the bond expires the tax also expires.
It is important to note that these taxes can potentially increase by 2% annually. One advantage that homeowners often do not take advantage of is paying off their Mello-Roos CFD tax in full. In doing so, they would be paying the entire principal amount upfront. The good news is that they would avoid any interest or escalations during the duration of term.
If you have questions regarding Mello-Roos Taxes, please feel free to call us at our office at 858-322-6375.
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Brian Danney
Senior Sales Executive2018-03-15T15:48:00-07:002018-05-24T17:20:45-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:2024Beat the Competition in a Seller's MarketIn this competitive sellers’ market with little inventory available, home buyers are going head to head and muscling each other out by offering higher prices and attractive terms to the seller which ultimately may be to their own detriment. However, I recently encountered a situation giving my home buyer a distinct advantage.
One of our lenders had advised me about an advanced approval process that one of my buying clients proceeded with. The lender and I had the buyer go through the underwriting process with approval already in hand. The only outstanding item pertaining to the loan was the appraised value.
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After a few weeks of looking for the right home, the buyer and I identified that their preference was to be in 4S Ranch in a four-bedroom floor plan. When we found our home and drafted the offer, we had the ability and advantage of closing escrow in a very short term (18 days or sooner) with our underwriting approval in hand. We were able to reduce our closing date from the standard 30 days.
Also, and most importantly, we were in a position to remove our full loan contingency considering the advanced approval the buyer had already obtained. This positioned us to beat out five other offers (two of which were priced slightly higher than us) because our buyer not only waived their loan contingency but was also able to close and get the sellers their proceeds quickly. This advantage ultimately helped them obtain their desired home.
This is one of many tactics that we now highly recommend to serious and committed buyers who know they are planning to buy upon seeing the right home. Not only will it separate you from the pack, but it gets you many steps ahead of your competition.
When a buyer is already looking for a home and they are working with the right team, the insights an experienced buyers’ agent can offer will put the buyer in an advantageous position. Since you are already going to go through the loan approval process, you might as well take advantage of this buyer’s tool, so you can enter into a contact with fewer contingencies.
Should you have any other questions or would like us to refer you to a lender that has advanced program options please do not hesitate to let us know.
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Brian Danney<br />Sr. Sales Executive<br />858-413-2179<br />brian@beerhometeam.com2017-12-06T16:35:00-07:002017-12-06T16:38:56-07:00Brian Danneytag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:19433 Ways We Find Off-Market Deals for Our Clients
Buying in a competitive market can be stressful. Here’s how we can reduce the stress for you, especially in this market.
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Many buyers in this market are finding that the homes their agents are showing them are homes that everyone else is already looking at and competing for. As a buyer, you want the right home, you want it now, and you want to stop competing like crazy for it. Right? Here are three strategies that we use day in and day out to get around that competition and find the perfect homes for our buyers:
1. Expired listings. These are properties that were on the market in the past that failed to sell and are now off the market. Maybe they’ve been off the market for a few months, maybe it’s been a few years. Either way, a lot of them may just be waiting for that one call from us to take the leap and sell again. By making the right calls, we are able to find inventory that isn’t yet available to the public.
2. Rentals. A lot of people who have owned rental properties for about a year are seeing their first leases come up and realizing that they either want to sell and cash in on their equity or that they don’t like being a landlord. We aim to turn these owners into sellers by targeting them and letting them know we have buyers ready to purchase their home.
"We use these methods day in and day out."
3. Letter campaigns. These work great as long as they are specifically targeted. You can’t just send letters all over the state or the county. However, when you know exactly what kind of home and area you want to live in, we can work with our title company to pull and extract a list of properties that fit your parameters. We can then send them a targeted letter campaign letting them know that you are looking for a home specifically like theirs.
These are just a few ways in which we’ve created off-market inventory to get our clients deals that nobody else can. Any agent can promise this, but few have the resources to accomplish this like we do. I’d love for you to come check out our prospecting room some time.
If you have any other questions for me about off-market properties or anything else about San Diego real estate, give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you soon.2017-09-07T11:00:00-07:002017-09-07T11:07:20-07:00Casey Millertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:1932Why Is Value Range Pricing Such a Bad Idea?
Today I’ll be talking about value range pricing. Truthfully, it has no place in today’s market.
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Today we’re going to talk a little about the subject of value range pricing. You may have encountered a situation where this kind of pricing was used—where, instead of simply giving a single number for the list price, the seller says the home is available from $750,000 to $850,000.
But what does this mean, why do sellers use it, and does it make sense in this market?
Well, specifically in today’s low-inventory seller’s market, I hate it. Sellers have control, so they should show it. Personally, I don’t think that value range pricing has a place in this market. In fact, most people outside of our San Diego market have never even heard of it before.
However, between 2009 and 2011 when the market was very distressed, I myself was using value range pricing quite a bit. I used this strategy because back then, you could list a house between $675,000 to $725,000 with an actual goal of only getting $650,000.
In that market, buyers had absolute control. They would go in and make any offer at all. Because of this, sellers and their agents needed to be aware that a $650,000 buyer would be looking in ranges higher than that—up to $750,000 or maybe even $800,000.
Back then, I was playing into the psychology of the buyer. When we listed a home in a range above our goal, we knew the buyer would be tricked into thinking they had beaten the seller. Today, though, this isn’t the case.
Buyers today simply will not look out of their range. In fact, they very rarely will go even $25,000 above what they think they can afford. This is why I believe that today, sellers should be firm and show their strength. Giving a range instead of a single number does not achieve this.
"The best way to price your home is to do so with confidence."
Buyers will already have a range in mind when they search for homes. It’s the job of the buyer to look within that range. It isn’t the duty of the seller to provide a range, instead. Being aware of this can actually benefit you in more ways than just giving off the appearance of being a confident seller.
If you price your home at $700,000, for example, your listing will attract buyers who are looking in multiple ranges. Buyers looking for homes between $650,000 to $725,000, buyers who are looking for homes starting at $700,000, and more will all take your listing into consideration.
Picking a price can be tricky, though. If you were to price at $710,000 instead of $700,000, for example, your listing would no longer be on the radar of people who have an upper limit of $700,000.
The best way to price your home is to do so with confidence and at a number that will put your listing on the radar of the most buyers possible.
The pricing is ultimately just a market number that will help you drive buyers into showings where they will compete with each other—not with you.
Finally, I’d also like to remind you to pick up a copy of my new book: “Real Estate Exposed.” It has some great information and you can find it easily on Amazon.
Additionally, make sure to send us any and all of your San Diego and Southern California referrals. We’d love to get them taken care of.
If you have any other questions or would like more information, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you soon.2017-08-23T09:24:00-07:002017-08-24T06:19:35-07:00Casey Millertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:19304 Tips for Making a Successful OfferSo you’ve been searching for that perfect house to call a ‘home,’ and you finally found one! The price is right and in such a competitive market, you want to make sure you make a good offer so you can guarantee your dream of making this house yours comes true!
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<br />Freddie Mac covered “4 Tips for Making an Offer” in their latest Executive Perspective. Here are the 4 Tips they covered along with some additional information for your consideration:
<br />1. Understand How Much You Can Afford<br />“While it's not nearly as fun as house hunting, fully understanding your finances is critical in making an offer.”<br />This ‘tip’ or ‘step’ really should take place before you start your home search process.
<br />As we’ve mentioned before, getting pre-qualified is one of many steps that will show home sellers that you are serious about buying, and will allow you to make your offer with the confidence of knowing that you have already been qualified for a mortgage for that amount. You will also need to know if you are prepared to make any repairs that may need to be made to the house (ex: new roof, new furnace).
<br />2. Act Fast<br />“Even though there are fewer investors, the inventory of homes for sale is also low and competition for housing continues to heat up in many parts of the country.”
<br />According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report, the inventory of homes for sale is currently at a 3.6-month supply; this is well below the 6-month supply that is needed for a ‘normal’ market. Buyer demand has continued to outpace the supply of homes for sale, causing buyers to compete with each other for their dream homes.
<br />Make sure that as soon as you decide that you want to make an offer, you work with your agent to present it as soon as possible.
<br />3. Make a Solid Offer<br />Freddie Mac offers this advice to help make your purchase offer the strongest it can be:<br />“Your strongest offer will be comparable with other sales and listings in the neighborhood. A licensed real estate agent active in the neighborhoods you are considering will be instrumental in helping you put in a solid offer based on their experience and other key considerations such as recent sales of similar homes, the condition of the house and what you can afford.”
<br />Consider ways of making your offer stand out! Many buyers write a personal letter to the seller letting them know how much they would love to be the new homeowners. Your agent will be able to help you figure out if there are any other ways your offer could stand out above the rest.
<br />4. Be Prepared to Negotiate<br />“It's likely that you'll get at least one counteroffer from the sellers so be prepared. The two things most likely to be negotiated are the selling price and closing date. Given that, you'll be glad you did your homework to understand how much you can afford.<br />Your agent will also be key in the negotiation process, giving you guidance on the counteroffer and making sure that the agreed-to contract terms are met.”
If your offer is accepted, Freddie Mac urges you to “always get an independent home inspection, so you know the true condition of the home." If the inspection uncovers undisclosed problems or issues, you can discuss any repairs that may need to be made, with the seller, or cancel the contract.
<br />Whether buying your first home or your fifth, having a local professional on your side who is an expert in their market is your best bet to make sure the process goes smoothly. Happy House Hunting!
<br />Please don’t hesitate to contact RPM Mortgage – Del Mar Loan Officer, Jennifer Gouslin or myself at 858-251-0783 for further guidance.
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Todd Pianin<br />Regional Manager<br />RPM Mortgage<br />NMLS ID #304014<br />Tpianin@rpm-mtg.com<br />858-775-8958<br />www.rpm-mtg.com
Todd Pianin NMLS #304014 - Jennifer Gouslin NMLS #232169.<br />LendUSA, LLC dba RPM Mortgage NMLS #1938 - Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the CA Residential Mortgage Lending Act. C-428 Equal House Opportunity. 2017-08-22T13:58:00-07:002017-08-22T14:51:06-07:00Casey Millertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:1825How to Win in This Market as a Homebuyer
Why is it so difficult to purchase a home in this market? How can homebuyers beat the competition and find the home they want? We have a few tips for you today.
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There are many frustrated homebuyers in our current market. Every time they see a good house, it already has a bunch of offers on it. How can you find a home in such a competitive market?
Every buyer is doing one of three things:
They are looking at Zillow or their other favorite real estate website.
They are going to open houses.
They are calling the numbers on ‘For Sale’ signs.
So, what is the one thing each of these methods has in common? Buyers are only looking at homes that are available to the public. If you use one of these three sources, then you will not see any unique inventory. You are just looking at the same homes that the entire buyer population is chasing.
Homes tend to go fast in this market, so the homes that are still available are the leftovers. It might feel like you are late to the party because even those homes have multiple offers on them. Since you are only looking at the same houses as everyone else, you are on the road to frustration. Many buyers throw up their hands and say, “That’s it! There’s nothing for me to buy!”
How can you win in this market?
Well, consider this; while everyone is focused on those publicly available homes, you are missing the homeowners in the neighborhood who are sitting at their kitchen tables and deciding to sell their homes. They haven’t hit the market yet, but they are ready to sell.
By limiting yourself to what is on the market, then you miss these sellers. By getting to these folks before they publicly list their home, you will avoid all the competition and multiple offers.
So, how do you get to those sellers? You need to work with a professional buyer’s agent.
It takes a very concentrated effort to get to those sellers who are not yet on the market. Thanks to today’s technology, we are able to find homes that match your criteria in the neighborhood you desire. Then, we go to those homeowners. We call them, knock on their doors, email them; we do whatever it takes to find those homeowners who are prepared to sell their home. It is really a win-win situation, as they avoid the hassle of listing their property and you are finally able to beat the competition and purchase the home you want.
Now, if you have any other questions about this strategy or our current market, give us a call or send us an email. We are happy to help you!2017-04-11T14:03:00-07:002017-04-12T12:08:25-07:00Casey Millertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:1734Adding Personality to Your New Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/adding-personality-to-your-home.jpg" alt="Renovations to Personalize the Home" width="950" height="713" />It's true that homes can be "Plain Janes" when you first <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/moving-to-san-diego/">move into them</a>. But even the most boring of homes have the potential become beauties with a bit of imagination and some simple enhancements.
If the rooms in your home lack personality, consider adding interest with easy to install features like built-in bookcases, window seats, faux raised paneling, chair rail and ceiling molding. Not only will they add <a href="https://www.houzz.com/millwork">architectural interest</a> to your spaces, but they will add value to your property. Whether you're after period charm or contemporary pizzazz, you can also control clutter or corral collections with easy to accomplish, cost-effective solutions.
Missing Personality in Your Home?
If the square footage and general dimensions of the rooms in your new home meet your needs but don't excite you, analyze what you find appealing in other spaces and places. Like that wall at Starbucks or your friends living room? Determine what it is you like, and consider it for your home. Add personality by painting a wall or adding pattern with drapery fabric, graphic art or patterned rugs.
But if you yearn for a more finished look or you find the architecture a little bland, consider adding <a href="https://nelsonkb.com/diy-install-the-crown-moldings-to-your-cabinets/" target="_blank">crown molding</a> at the ceiling line, a chair rail for the midsection of the walls, substantial baseboard at floor level or rosettes and corner details for drama. Even for modern surroundings, one can find millwork and trim that add character and distinctive appeal while only looking expensive.
Home DIY Solutions
You don't have to be a design professional or a talented woodworker to personalize your home. With modern materials and widespread availability of specialized millwork, you are sure to discover a bunch of home decor design options. These inexpensive items can add substantial dollar value to your home.
Lift a boring fireplace mantel to extraordinary heights by adding columns on either side. Add some moldings under the shelf and trim the edge with coordinating crown. Paint or stain it as you wish.
In a room with a plain high ceiling, you can create the look of box beams or a coffered ceiling simply and economically. Or build an entire wall of bookshelves not only to house books, but also to showcase a collection. You could also frame a window in a child's room with shelving on either side and a window seat below.
Note that prefabricated cabinets are often the perfect dimension for a window seat. All you have to do is build a four-inch toe kick and add a cushion. The bonus is the storage space you'll gain.
We're sure you'll find other enticing decor ideas for many other rooms in your home. Be happy and make your home happy too - by giving it some personality!<br />
#hw2016-11-30T08:53:00-07:002021-07-15T09:08:39-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:17324 Things to Watch for Before You Buy Your Next Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/watching-the-real-estate-market.jpg" alt="Monitoring Home Sales and Market Data" width="950" height="713" />If you are thinking of <a href="https://www.sandiegohomefinder.com/buying/">buying a home</a> some time in the near future, you will want to be prepared. Even though you may spend a great deal of time ensuring that you personally are ready, it is just as important to confirm that the current real estate market is suited to your needs.
Here are four aspects of the home buying process to ensure a better overall investment.
If you have questions about your personal financial situation, ask your lender and/or a financial advisor what buying a new home could mean for you.
Asking Home Prices in Your Preferred Neighborhoods
The last thing that you want to do as a new home buyer is to find yourself priced out of a particular neighborhood. In some parts of the country, prices can shoot up rapidly in a very short period of time. Nationwide, <a href="http://time.com/money/4426296/housing-markets-home-prices/" target="_blank">the average price of homes</a> increased by 6 percent from May 2016 to June 2016. That may not seem like a lot, until you realize that 6 percent on a $250,000 home is $15,000.
In some cities, double-digit growth over a period of a few years means that homes may be hundreds of thousands of dollars more than they were in 2011 or 2012. Select the neighborhoods that you prefer, and understand how the asking prices in are trending. That will give you a better sense of when to buy.
Dramatic Price Increases in Comparable Neighborhoods
In some cases, dramatic asking prices for new homes might signal an opportunity to wait and see what happens - if only for a few months. If the housing bubble taught America anything, it is that housing prices rising unchecked may eventually plateau, or possibly even decrease. San Francisco, one of the fastest-growing markets in the country, had a <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-09-28/runaway-home-prices-ebb-in-u-s-west-as-weary-buyers-push-back" target="_blank">15 percent growth in home prices</a> in 2015, but only about 1 percent in 2016.
Most cities and towns will, however, have a more even rate of home price increases, though sometimes, dramatic increases can happen suddenly in very localized and specific neighborhoods as well. Ask your real estate professional what rate of increase the homes have experienced over the last year or so in the areas in which you are looking to stay current on price increases.
How Long do Homes Stay on the Market?
In addition to price, the health of the local real estate market is also a matter of time. The longer it takes to sell the average home in the area, the more likely it is that prices are not dramatically increasing in that area. As a home buyer, you have the ability to choose whether you want to buy in a neighborhood that has <a href="http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2004-05-21/business/0405210073_1_property-values-landscaping-neighborhood-schools" target="_blank">dramatically increasing home prices</a> with homes on the market for a very short time - or possibly get a better deal on a home in an area where prices are not increasing as much and homes stay on the market longer.
If you are looking for more negotiation room on the asking pice, watch for homes that have been on the market for some time. Sellers may be more willing to accommodate your offer if their home has been on the market for some time.
Mortgage Interest Rates
Mortgage interest rates have been at or fairly near historic lows since 2012. While mortgage interest rates are not likely to go back to the high rates of the late 1970s and 1980s overnight, it is typically a good idea to keep an eye on the interest rate you might expect to pay once you apply for mortgage pre-approval. Often your mortgage professional or mortgage company may be able to lock-in a low interest rate for a limited amount of time while you wait for your home to close.
Remember that as the Federal Reserve raises short-term interest rates, this usualy causes an increase in long-term mortgage interest rates as well. And an increase of even half a percentage point could cost you thousands of dollars more over the life of the loan. In reality, interest rates may rise and drop every week. If you monitor the mortgage interest rates and notice them trending upward, you may decide to go ahead and buy now and lock in a better rate vs. waiting.
Buying a home takes knowledge and the observation of local real estate markets and mortgage interest rates. By continually gathering all relevant information and using the services of a real estate professional, you can time your home purchase more effectively.
#hw2016-11-28T11:44:00-07:002016-11-28T11:56:27-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:17236 Tips for Buying an Older Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/older-home-buying-tips.jpg" alt="What to Look for in an Older Home" width="950" height="713" />O lder homes have the potential to be great, but buyers looking for an older home must be careful when making their purchase. Some older properties can be a drain on financial resources, which can reduce the potential for return on investment.
As a buyer of an older property, knowing how to avoid the pitfalls and how to prepare yourself for ownership of an older home can help you make the most of your investment.
Get Multiple Inspections
Schedule multiple inspections of the property as soon as it makes sense. Remember that standard home inspectors <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/what-does-a-home-inspector-look-for/" target="_blank">may not look at all systems</a> of the house. Fireplaces, chimneys and sewers often fall outside the purview of a standard home inspector.
Find out which systems your home inspector will examine and which systems your home inspector will not assess, then make arrangements to have those other systems examined by experts.
Some of the major systems of your home, like the roof and windows, are so costly to repair or replace that you may want to get an expert opinion in addition to a standard home inspection. Doing this will give you an additional level of security that will help you avoid costly repairs in the future.
Budget for Upgrades
Older plumbing systems and electrical systems frequently fail to meet the needs of modern homeowners. Old pipes tend to break when undergoing changes and repairs, while an older electrical service may not deliver enough power to modern appliances.
If the home has all of its original plumbing and original electrical service, budgeting for an upgrade shortly after moving in may be a good move. While the home inspection may not turn up evidence of problems with these systems, chances are good that you’ll want to upgrade when you decide to renovate.
Get Insurance Quotes Early in the Process
Homeowners insurance when <a href="https://www.inspectionsupport.com/resources/what-to-know-when-buying-an-old-house/" target="_blank">purchasing an older home</a> may be more expensive than premiums that you might pay for a more modern property. Pricing the homeowners insurance policy early in the process can possibly give you time to shop around for a suitable policy.
In some cases, you may also be able to get a discount by making upgrades to the property before you take ownership. If you’re looking for ways to save on homeowners insurance, ask your insurance agent about changes you can make to the property to reduce your rates.
Find out if Your Appliances Fit
Older homes can be built with smaller doorways and non-standard spaces for appliances. Finding out if your appliances will fit in your home and what changes need to made to accommodate your modern appliances will help you make a smooth transition into your new property.
For example, if you’re planning to use a modern oven in your new kitchen, and the old oven was an antique, then the allotted space for the oven may be smaller or larger than the modern model. This can lead to aesthetic or logistical problems, and may cost money upon move in.
Likewise, if the doorways are too narrow, you may need to make special, costly arrangements to get your appliances into your home. Having this information ahead of time will help you budget your money appropriately and make your move in go more smoothly.
Inquire About Lead Paint
Lead paint is a common problem in older homes, and remediation can be costly. <a href="http://www.doityourself.com/stry/identifying-lead-paint---a-homeowners-guide" target="_blank">Look for chipped paint on the walls and around the windows</a> of your older home, and inquire about previous remediation efforts in the past. If the home you’re thinking about purchasing has never had remediation, have it inspected by an expert who can tell you if lead paint is a problem and if so what you’ll need to do to have this fixed.
Work with an Experienced Agent
If you’re new to the home buying process, working with an experienced real estate agent is critical. An experienced agent can give you advice throughout the process and can point out potential problems as they come up. This will help you avoid the common pitfalls associated with older homes, and make a good investment on a home that will suit your needs.
#hw2016-11-09T12:10:00-07:002022-08-30T11:50:13-07:00Daniel Beertag:sandiegohomefinder.com,2012-09-20:1706What to Look for When Shopping for an Accessible Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/532/image/accessible-home-shopping.jpg" alt="Home Accessibility" width="950" height="713" />If you or someone you love have a disability that limits range of motion or makes performing some tasks difficult, you're likely already intimately familiar with just how challenging it can be to work around a home that isn't designed to be accessible.
Even if you're in perfect health today, it's still a good idea to know what to look for in an accessible home.
The good news is that buying a home with accessibility features is easier than ever. In fact, many builders voluntarily follow standards of "Universal Design", to make new construction more accessible to all. If you're interested in making life easier for yourself or that someone special who needs some extra care, here's what you should look for when shopping for an accessible home:
Single-Story Homes
A <a href="http://www.antiquehome.org/Architectural-Style/ranch.htm" target="_blank">ranch-style</a> home is the easiest choice for families on the lookout for accessibility, since it does away with the need to negotiate stairs on a daily basis. If you are previewing 2+ story homes, make sure there's at least one bedroom and a full bathroom on the ground floor.
Basement-Free Infrastructure
Many traditional homes are built with a basement. Often the basement is used to house the electrical panel, water heater and furnace. In some basement homes, the washer and dryer are also located down the stairs in the basement.
To keep things easy to reach, consider homes that utilize a utility room or an attached garage for these items and not a basement home.
Easy Shower Access
To accommodate a wheelchair or walker, look for bathrooms that have a shower stall that measures at least 30 inches by 60 inches. It's also important that the shower has grab bars, a hand-operated shower head and a zero-clearance threshold to make it easy for everyone to use.
An Accessible Bathroom
An <a href="https://teknikinc.com/bathroom-remodel-san-diego/" target="_blank">accessible bathroom</a> requires more floor space for maneuvering walkers and wheel chairs, and you'll also want a toilet that's placed a bit higher off the ground. Grab bars around the toilet are also a must-have for safety.
Low-Slope Entry Ramps
Because many building codes require a house's foundation to be well above the ground, a ramp might be needed for getting in and out of the home. For the greatest possible ease of use, look for the flattest ramp possible. The ADA recommends a slope of no more than 1:12.
Wide Doorways
Most modern doors are at least 30 inches wide, but <a href="http://www.karmanhealthcare.com/how-wide-does-a-doorway-need-to-be-for-a-wheelchair/" target="_blank">32 inches is the recommendation</a> for easy wheelchair clearance, and 36 inches would be the most comfortable. Check also to see that there are no raised thresholds between rooms — even the transition strips between a carpeted and tiled area can be tiresome to navigate.
Consider the Parking
Make sure that the parking area is convenient and offers enough room to maneuver around the car. A covered parking area for protection from the elements is ideal. And though a garage usually an added benefit of a home, make sure the garage will have around the car once it is pulled into the garage.
Paddle Handles
Door knobs can be difficult to use for many people, especially those with severe arthritis or other limb-inhibiting conditions. Paddle-style handles are easy to operate and come in all sorts of styles and finishes to blend with any decor.
Many of these accessibility features can be retro-fitted, but many of them are already in place in homes that are specifically designed to be more accessible. Let your real estate agent know that you need to prioritize accessibility, and he or she will guide you to homes that fit the bill. If you're not sure that a house you're considering is a good candidate for an accessibility renovation, seek out a home inspector with ADA training for advice.
#hw2016-10-10T12:00:00-07:002021-05-26T08:15:23-07:00Daniel Beer