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Biting The Orange: Five Things To Consider Before Taking Out Orange County Home Loans

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

Biting The Orange: Five Things To Consider Before Taking Out Orange County Home Loans

Who can blame you for wanting to live in Orange County? The place is widely venerated as the Gold Coast of California. It combines beautiful landscape and pristine beachfront with a slew of art, entertainment, dining, and shopping options. It encompasses 34 of California’s loveliest and most upscale cities, among them Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, and Laguna Beach. Before you start scouring the market for Orange County home loans, however, you should sit back and consider the following:

1. Should you buy or rent?
Orange County home loans do not come cheap. So, ask yourself this question: are you financially capable of buying or renting property? The good thing about buying a home is that you’re free to make renovations or demand customization, provided that you respect local planning restrictions. You don’t have this freedom when you rent. When renting, there are numerous restrictions to home improvements. The downside to taking out an Orange County home loan is that you will be indebted for years. You won’t have this problem if you rent. If you rent, however, you will not benefit from future increases to the property’s value.

2. How will you fund your purchase?
Many people can help you obtain Orange County home loans, particularly if you have a respectable credit history. Be sure to choose an accredited broker or lender, though, so you will not fall prey to predatory lending. Remember, if a rate seems too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. The home loan industry is based on conservative estimates. Be very wary of unbelievably low interest rates. These low rates are simply baits. Once you latch on to them, you will find that the low rates are only good for a short period – a year or two, for example. After this honeymoon period, you will find yourself saddled with inordinately cutthroat rates and terms.

3. What capital growth can you expect?
Experts claim Orange County home loans are wise investments. Homes increase in value by approximately four or five percent annually. Such increase in value, however, are affected by an area’s rate of growth, real estate supply and demand, and the local political climate. Orange County home loans are sound investments because Orange County will always epitomize idyllic and luxurious California living.

4. Should you get a structural survey first?
Of course! Structural survey is a report from an experienced property assessor. It details any structural problems the property may have. These problems are important because they may affect not only your property’s purchase price, but property valuation in general.

5. Do you need legal advice?
The answer is a resounding yes. Always obtain qualified legal advice before finalizing mortgage agreements, whether these are Orange County home loans or not. Have your legal advisor obtain information about planning or building restrictions. These will eventually have a huge impact on the value of your property. Additionally, you should get a legal advisor to look into the title of the property. Does it come with many tangled strings? Are there restrictions to the property transfer? Your legal advisor can sort through these questions for you, as well as help ensure that you get exactly what you pay for.

Living the Orange County way comes with a price. Whether or not you are ready to pay this price for years to come is something you should think about before shopping for Orange County home loans.

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Fullerton Foreclosures Empowers Orange County Real Estate Buyers & Sellers

Saturday, August 21st, 2010

Fullerton Foreclosures Empowers Orange County Real Estate Buyers & Sellers

 

Selling or buying a house can put a toll on everyday life so it’s important that you are confident that your real estate agent is deserving of your trust. You should seek out an agent who is knowledgeable and experienced enough to guide you through a transaction with as little stress as possible, an agent like Orange County real estate expert Adam Brett.

 

Realtor® Adam Brett has his finger on the pulse of Orange County real estate and his website RealtorAdam has a wealth of information for buyers and sellers.

Adam Brett has designed his web site to be easy for prospective buyers and sellers to get the real estate information they need to make an informed decision.  The site contains information about the latest real estate listings for sale, a convenient mortgage calculator, current mortgage interest rates, local inventories, and tips and information on how to select an experienced real estate agent who can get you the results you deserve.  The inventory of local properties includes local resale – including Fullerton foreclosures and newly constructed homes or lease homes.

 

No matter what the economy there is always someone needing to buy or sell real estate. The recent spate of foreclosures has opened up a wealth of opportunities for real estate buyers, however the foreclosure market can be a minefield of frustration and wasted time without a professional who knows the ropes to guide you through the foreclosure maze.

 

Like any other, the Orange County real estate market has been impacted by the rise in foreclosure properties for sale, but there are still local pockets where the trend has continued for homes prices to rise. Realtor Adam Brett knows the local neighborhoods – he knows where the foreclosed homes are, and where good investment properties are located.  A knowledgeable and experienced agent like Adam Brett knows that hot and not-so-hot markets come and go, but what is important to Adam Brett is that his clients can rely on him to be honest and straight-forward no matter what the market.  He is loyal to his clients regardless of how the local real estate market reacts to economic factors.

 

Foreclosures are keeping the Orange County real estate market buzzing, but when all is said and done…Whatever the situation of our nations’ economy, the real estate industry will still go on – people will always want to live in homes and as Adam Brett will tell you, Orange County, California will always be a great place to live!

Realtor Adam can help make the Fullerton foreclosure work for sellers and buyers especially in the Orange County real Estate.

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Do You Wish to Live in a Beautiful County? Then You Need to Check Out Ventura County Real Estate

Monday, August 9th, 2010

Do You Wish to Live in a Beautiful County? Then You Need to Check Out Ventura County Real Estate

Ventura County is a beautiful place to call home for those who already live there.  The weather is gorgeous and you will not be sorry if you decide to move to this beautiful part of California.

Ventura County is well known for all the beautiful sandy beaches, wonderful views, and a fantastic sense of community.  What better place to live and invest in than Ventura Real Estate.  It will only take you a few minutes to get to either Los Angeles or Santa Barbara.  Ventura County is the gateway to Channel Islands National Park.  

Numerous artists call Ventura their home.  There are sculptors, painters, dancers, and musicians that show off their talents as you walk up and down the streets.  You can partake of the beach, surfing, visiting the pier, ride your bike, or visit the marina.  You could attend one of the activities such as a concert in the park, sailing, hiking, camping, fishing, golfing, and horseback ride. 

There is a lot of history in Ventura County.  There is the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, The Fillmore and Western historic railway, San Buenaventura Mission, and Union Oil Museum.

Ventura is located between Los Padres National Forest and Pacific Ocean, which can help you have the perfect outdoor excursion.  If you wish to go offshore, you could visit Channel Islands National Park and watch, hike, camp, dive, kayak, or take a walk.

There are other things available to do when you live in Ventura County such as Harbor shops, restaurants, boutiques, antique shops, family entertainment areas, and the visitor’s center.  One of the most popular activities in Ventura County is the ghost hunt tour.

Events in Ventura County

•    Harvest ArtWalk Weekend – celebration of the community of artists.  This is a free event and it allows you to walk through 200 artists’ works in over 80 galleries and studios.  You also will get to experience 20 outdoor multi-cultural performances.  If you don’t want to drive and park, you could take the free shuttle bus.

•    Fisherman’s Market – pick up the fresh catch of the day in this market.  The fisherman will sell the fish to you right off his boat at Andria’s pier.  Andria’s Seafood has been open since 1976.  Andria has a fish market as well as seafood restaurant next door. 

When checking out the real estate market in Ventura County you should know that the homes are sold between 5,000 and 9,870 as of 2007. The economic base for Ventura County ranges from tourism to technology.  So no matter what occupation you have, you will be a welcomed addition to the community.

California is a beautiful state and Ventura County is one of the most awe-inspiring areas in California.  As you can see, there are numerous things to do if you are single or have a large family.  Everyone will enjoy living in Ventura County.  After visiting you will know why it is considered as such a magnificent place.  Once you find that out for yourself, you will definitely want to invest in Ventura County Real Estate. 

Angela Dolson

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Marin County Real Estate Community Profile: Mill Valley

Saturday, August 7th, 2010

Marin County Real Estate Community Profile: Mill Valley

Mill Valley California has a certain cachet. Over the years it has been home to the rich, the famous, and the infamous. In the ’60s the hippies loved it and, in recent years, the hip love it. Laid back, but sophisticated with a modern edge, Mill Valley remains a hot spot in the real estate market, despite the overall decline in many parts of California.

What makes Mill Valley real estate so desirable to modern homebuyers? Obviously the proximity to San Francisco is a big draw for Mill Valley and, indeed, all of Marin County. Less than 15 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge, Mill Valley is about a 30 minute commute to San Francisco, which is perfect for those who work in the city but want to a quieter pace for their family life. The public schools are excellent, and there is a wealth of outdoor activities for the active family.

Another big attraction to Mill Valley is the mild Mediterranean climate. In the winter temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is abundant – which provides Mill Valley with its beautiful forested areas. In the summertime, temperatures range between 75 and 90 degrees and there is little, if any, rainfall. What’s not to love about that?

If the natural attributes of Mill Valley aren’t enough, buyers looking for Mill Valley real estate will find some amazing architecture. In addition to condos and traditional style homes, Mill Valley is rich with mid-century modern design. The Strawberry Point area has a very exclusive neighborhood developed by Joseph Eichler in the 1960′s. These homes, designed by Claude Oakland, are a bit larger than most Eichlers and many feature great views of the San Francisco Bay. You’ll also find homes designed by greats such as Lee Stuart Darrow and Jon Bolles in the Strawberry Point area of Mill Valley.

For the patient homebuyer, Mill Valley homes designed by well-known architects occasionally come up on the market. Soriano, Paffard Keatinge Clay, Daniel Lieberman, Rex Rathbun, and Francis Joseph McCarthy are all modern pioneers who contributed to the richness of Mill Valley architecture in the booming age of modernism that began in the 1940′s and lasted well into the 1960′s. More contemporary architectural firms such as Kappe+Du, Endresware, Ohashi Design Studio, and Sheahan & Quandt are also represented in Mill Valley real estate. These custom homes are not large, but they are smart and well designed. The homes do not come cheap, but they can be considered an investment in a work of art in addition to a home.

Nothing is inexpensive in Mill Valley, but everything is relative. For those who dream of owning a home in Mill Valley but find the designer homes to be a bit too pricey there are other options. In the hills surrounding the town, small cabin style homes sometimes come up for sale. Many of these places have lovely views, a rural feel, and some even have studios. Another relatively cost-effective alternative would be to purchase a tear down and put a prefab in. These days prefabs, also called modular homes, are becoming increasingly popular. They come in many different designs – including modern, are generally not as expensive as building a house “from scratch”, and take less time to construct.

For now the Mill Valley real estate market remains solid and, with such an eclectic background, there truly is something for everyone. Mill Valley has a lot going for it: great location, lovely climate, excellent schools, and interesting architecture. For 0,000 you can get your foot in the door – from there, the sky is the limit!

Renee Adelmann specializes in Mill Valley real estate. Visit her website to learn more about Marin County CA and search the Marin MLS.

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Palm Springs, Orange County California Real Estate Lawyer and Realtor Discusses the Real Estate Crisis and Lawsuits in the Wake of the Credit Crunch

Saturday, July 31st, 2010

Palm Springs, Orange County California Real Estate Lawyer and Realtor Discusses the Real Estate Crisis and Lawsuits in the Wake of the Credit Crunch

In Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Garden Grove, Palmdale, Corona, Escondido, Orange, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, Victorville, Carlsbad, Temecula, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, El Cajon, Vista, Westminster, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hesperia, Newport Beach, Buena Park, Indio, Coachella, Chino Hills, San Diego, Orange County, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside and all across Southern California and the nation, if you own real estate, you’ve seen the value of your home get a short haircut and your investment in the stock market has fallen through the basement.

While most real estate attorneys and lawyers are feeling the economic slowdown just like the rest of the country, some lawyers, real estate and bankruptcy lawyers among them, are seeing a host of clients seeking to file new lawsuits and filings in the wake of the credit crunch. And while the stock market may have a sharp rebound sooner or later, the real estate market is going to crawl back much more slowly.

Calls are pouring in to California real estate attorneys and CA property lawyers for help to fight foreclosures or to file foreclosure actions, for bankruptcies filings, landlord-tenant problems, homeowner association issues, contractors struggling to understand how their bank could cut off their credit in the middle of construction, individuals having their credit card limits slashed, and real estate buyers seeking help to get out of contracts and mortgages.

“I need help to save my home,” is a common plea all attorneys are hearing. It is painful to tell such callers how limited their options are.According to a recent report, the latest problem is that delinquency rates are now rising dramatically on construction loans for single family homes.

Consequently, builders and contractors are filing lawsuits against their lenders for the damages they are suffering from this freeze in credit.More sub-prime related suits have now been filed in the 18 months that ended June 30th than in the savings and loan crisis of the 1990s. Class-action sub-prime related suits are soaring.

Class action lawsuits in California have been filed against some of the largest and now failed institutions alleging that their disclosures were misleading or that they practiced discriminatory lending practices.

It is expected that construction defect cases will be on the rise as well as builders try to cut corners to be able to make even a little profit on construction projects that have gone sour.There is, however, no quick relief for anyone filing such lawsuits. The courts are jammed and the State of California has little money to hire new judges. Criminal lawsuits take precedence and in some jurisdictions, only lawsuits running up against a requirement that they be resolved in five years are being sent to trial.

Every day, it is reported that a new wave of litigants or people are being affected by the economic crisis, whether it is people with prime as opposed to sub-prime loans, or people who are no longer able to obtain credit and who can no longer borrow money on their credit cards.

No matter what Congress does or doesn’t do, the fallout from this crisis will last for many years and create a substantially different climate for business and real estate for the foreseeable future.

Visit our website at http://www.californiaattorneyslawyers.com . If you have a real estate, mortgage, landlord-tenant, construction law or homeowners association issue anywhere in Southern California, we have the knowledge and resources to represent you as your Palm Springs Real Estate Lawyer and Orange County Real Estate Attorney in and around cities such as San Diego, Orange County, Palm Springs, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Palm Desert, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Garden Grove, Del Mar, Palmdale, Corona, Escondido, Orange, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, Victorville, Carlsbad, Temecula, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, El Cajon, Vista, Westminster, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hesperia, Newport Beach, Buena Park, Indio, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, and Chino Hills.

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Carlsbad Real Estate in San Diego County Could Be Your California Dream

Friday, July 30th, 2010

Carlsbad Real Estate in San Diego County Could Be Your California Dream

Are you California dreaming? If you are considering moving to California, the Golden State, then you have outstanding 58 choices. While county has its pros and cons, you should certainly consider San Diego County. Located in the deep southwest portion of the state, the country sits on the US-Mexico border. With an estimated population of 3.1 million (2008), San Diego County has become one of the biggest up-and-coming counties in the state.

A CALIFORNIA ORIGINAL

The State Legislature established San Diego County, on February 18, 1850; it was one of California’s 27 original counties. Its estimated population of nearly 3,500 included about 800 settlers, and roughly 2,700 Native Americans. In terms of geographical size, the county included almost 40,000 square miles. Today, its size has shrunk to about 4,255 square miles.

Another red-letter date was January 3, 1853. That is the date that when the county’s Board of Supervisors split San Diego County into various supervisorial districts.

WHAT IS IN A NAME?

San Diego County’s name originates from -San Diego de Alcala.- That refers to Don Sebastian Vizcaino, a Spaniard. If you are considering an investment in Carlsbad Real Estate, this fact might be of particular interest to you. On November 12, 1603, Vizcaino sailed into modern San Diego Bay. He renamed the Bay to honor his fleet’s main ship, and his beloved saint. This name replaced the bay’s previous name, San Miguel, by which an explorer named Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo had named it 61 years beforehand.

THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO SEE

Today, San Diego County provides several sites for people to explore:

-Balboa Park: museums and other cultural attractions
-Mission San Diego de Alcala: the first Spanish mission in California
-Mount Laguna Observatory (San Diego State University)
-Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
-Palomar Observatory (CalTech)
-Ramona Valley: produces wine
-San Diego Wild Animal Park
-San Diego Zoo: has more animal species than any other zoo on Earth
-Sea World of San Diego

WHY CARLSBAD IS GOOD

In addition to the various sites to see in San Diego County, it also includes several outstanding cities. For instance, the City of Carlsbad was incorporated in 1952. Since then, Carlsbad has become one of the highest-income and priciest cities in the entire USA. Several factors such as its location along the coast, low population of density, and breathtaking scenery, have boosted the city’s quality of life. It is understandable why a consistently high demand for Carlsbad Real Estate exists.

The city includes four quadrants. Northwest is the oldest section, while Northeast is mainly residential. Meanwhile, Southeast is the newest quadrant, and Southwest consists of mobile homes and single-family homes.

If you have dreamed of living in California, then you should consider San Diego County. Its cities, such as Carlsbad, are rich in history and diversity. Thus, they can provide you with an array of real estate variety. Without a doubt, San Diego County can make your California dream into a California reality!

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San Diego County Real Estate

Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

San Diego County Real Estate

The San Diego real estate market is currently undergoing a turbulent and highly instable period that has left industry experts, real estate analysts, buyers and sellers alike more than a bit befuddled trying to predict which way the market is going to end up. Some of the more cynical of these people have in fact given up on trying to make any solid assumptions given the impossibility of making sense out of the zigzagging market trends, and have merely contented themselves with waiting for things to cool down–as most experts agree that they inevitably will–before taking any drastic action.

The real estate market has of course always been prone to rapid and drastic changes and this is particularly true in San Diego. Many times, real estate professionals have had to adjust their answers to queries regarding pricing and value within months, weeks and even days of making a statement in order to more accurately reflect prevailing market trends. Anyone who wants to stay on top of the game–and this goes for buyers as well as sellers–will have to make the effort to constantly receive new and updated information about the market and act accordingly. And in the wild and wooly world of the San Diego County real estate market, that can sometimes happen overnight.

One of the things that real estate analysts have realized–at least in San Diego–is that more often than not, how the majority of people who are involved in the real estate market perceive the current state of the industry has a lot to do with how things actually are in reality. It is almost as if the market is feeding on the level of confidence–or lack thereof–and shifts itself accordingly. Optimism on the part of the consumer has often served to boost the market, and the inverse is also often true. In this case it would seem that the widespread lack of confidence of many in the San Diego real estate industry has resulted in the present unstable condition. In any case, what is clearly needed is a keen eye for any changes that may come and the ability to act quickly when such a change inevitably occurs.

Because of the present real estate situation in San Diego, it has become more and more common for buyers to hold off on purchasing their dream property and waiting for a certain period while the market “settles down.” While it is indeed a wise decision to hold off from making any drastic decisions while the real estate market is undergoing such a tremendous state of flux, there are situations wherein it would really not be beneficial to wait for another 6 months or so. Far too many people have been in a similar situation of waiting for the market to enter a more predictable or financially viable state before buying, and when the market failed to stabilize as they had hoped, they later realized that they should have acted when the market was as good as it was going to get.

Of course, everyone would like to hold out in hopes of getting a good deal or even those increasingly rare instances–the windfall–but the fact of the matter is that prices in the current real estate market has remained fairly flat for several months now and it will likely remain so for the foreseeable future.

Another thing to consider is that waiting too long will increase your costs considerably in terms of interest rates and mortgage payments. Imagine how much you would have saved in interest payments alone if you had purchased earlier and how much higher your mortgage is going to be today compared to the same time last year. In the current fickle real estate market of San Diego, that can add up to quite a lot of money.

If you are thinking of flipping the property, it might make more sense to time your move according to the prevailing market prices, but even that is not such a good idea anymore. Look at the big picture: is the little money that you save by waiting really going to be significant to you a few years down the line?

The moral lesson that you will have hopefully picked up in all of this is: do keep your eye on prevailing real estate market trends, but if a considerable amount of time has passed without any significant changes in prices, you may as well buy now before you miss your chance entirely.

View floor plans of new townhomes and live work lofts at Bluwater Crossing, Carlsbad California. Great investment opportunity. Carlsbad San Diego County Real Estate for sale.

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Buying A Home Or Real Estate In San Diego County?

Monday, July 12th, 2010

Buying A Home Or Real Estate In San Diego County?

One of the original counties of California, San Diego County is named in honor of the Franciscan St. Didacus of Alcala, known in Spanish as San Diego de Alcala de Henares. Located in the far southwest, bordering Mexico, it is the third largest County by population in the State of California.

Sun, sand and surf is a way of life with people in San Diego. The county is blessed with year round good weather making it a favorite with first time visitors as well as residents. No wonder then San Diego County is a preferred choice of people looking for prime real estate. The entire County is known for its natural splendor, and whether it is the North County area, Central San Diego, East County, or the South Bay, real estate is buzzing throughout San Diego County.

Although most of the communities make for great real estate, each one of them has a distinct identity of its own. Coronado, located across the bay from downtown San Diego, for instance, is a world famous tourist destination offering a peaceful life to its residents. La Jolla, located 15 minutes from San Diego offers up beachside market comforts with fabulous restaurants, art galleries, museums and the famous Scripps Institute of Technology. The list goes on and on.

Whether you are buying, selling or renting property in San Diego County, your choices are plenty. It all depends on what kind of property you are looking to buy or sell. A simple online search can yield you great results with virtually thousands of properties up for sale.

When buying or selling a home, you should know that there are a variety of factors that influence a home’s price. Perhaps the largest contributor is the price of similar homes in the same community. Other factors include a home’s proximity to the ocean, the quality of schools, crime statistics, availability of local hospitals, proximity to police stations, availability of recreational facilities, etc.

Be sure to find a knowledgeable Realtor who can guide you throughout the home buying and home selling process. A good agent will assist you with locating a home that meets your needs, negotiating a good price, and will guide you through the home loan, escrow and closing processes.

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Marin County Real Estate Profiles – Tiburon California

Monday, July 12th, 2010

Marin County Real Estate Profiles – Tiburon California

Punta de Tiburon, translated as Shark’s Point, was the Spanish name for the town now known as Tiburon. Originally a Miwok Indian Village, Tiburon prospered as a Spanish Land Grant settlement, and later became a bustling railroad town in the 1800′s. Today Tiburon is a busy waterfront town, reminiscent of a quaint New England fishing village. Upscale shopping, art galleries, and waterside dining charm visitors and residents alike.

Tiburon enjoys the same Mediterranean climate experienced throughout Marin County. Warm, dry summers, kept comfortable by ocean breezes pushing in around the Marin Headlands, and mild winters hold the promise of pleasant conditions year-round. Pleasure in Tiburon abides, regardless of the season. There are few experiences more delightful than basking in the sun and looking out across the bay toward San Francisco on a clear summer day or admiring the city lights on a crisp winter evening.

With easy access to ferry services and only minutes away from the Golden Gate Bridge, Tiburon is an attractive location for commuters. Homes in Tiburon and nearby Belvedere are expensive. Forbes Magazine has long rated the Belvedere/Tiburon area as being among the most expensive zip codes in the United States. Homes in Tiburon are high-end luxury homes and range from stylish single-family detached homes to sweeping estates, although luxury condominiums and townhouses are also available. Most properties have panoramic views of the bay, the surrounding mountains, or the San Francisco city lights.

Tiburon’s interesting past has created a rather eclectic collection of architectural styles. Main Street is full of shops and restaurants housed in historic wood buildings dating back to Tiburon’s railroad days. During the late 1800′s and early 1900′s, floating homes were popular with summer residents, sea captains, and bohemian artists; remnants of this era can still be found on Ark Row, which is full of charming little shops that used to be houseboats. Examples of classic architecture can be found in the Hilarita Reed Lyford House, an Italianate villa that now serves as headquarters for National Audubon Society, and Old St. Hillary’s, a former Catholic church, which is a fine example of the Carpenter Gothic style.

Tiburon also has a long history with the mid-century modern movement in architecture, and many homes in the area reflect the simple, understated style of modernists such as Raphael Soriano and Charles Warren Callister, both prominent mid-century architects who were based in Tiburon for many years. William Wurster, another of California’s influential architects, designed one of the hillside homes perched above the waters of Tiburon. Other homes influenced by the modern movement include a 1960′s Quinn and Oda home, and an award winning, master-planned community of condominiums designed by Fisher-Friedman Associates.

Interesting homes, stunning views, and a wonderful climate just scratch the surface of Tiburon’s charms, however. With two yacht clubs – the Corinthian Yacht Club and the Tiburon Yacht Club; acres of shopping and waterfront dining, and miles of biking, hiking, and skating trails there is always something to do in Tiburon.

Real estate in Tiburon is expensive, but properties hold their value. Despite the general decline in California real estate, the luxury market in Marin County, including Tiburon, has remained steady or, in many cases, actually increased in value. The cost of property in this area reflects the location, views, and standard of living as well as the architecture and amenities of the home.

Renee Adelmann of Marin Modern Real Estate assists buyers with their Tiburon real estate needs. Meet Renee and search the Marin County MLS for available properties.

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Marin County California Real Estate Profiles – Sausalito CA

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010

Marin County California Real Estate Profiles – Sausalito CA

Nestled up against the Marin County end of the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito is a whimsical waterfront town that defies description. Once home to artists, writers, actors and poets, Sausalito retains a pleasantly offbeat character with an upscale attitude. Stunning views, art galleries, funky boutiques and open-air restaurants make Sausalito a favored tourist destination. Those same stunning views, a delightful climate, and an interesting selection of real estate make Sausalito a desirable place to live as well.

Sausalito is conveniently located for commuting to San Francisco. Only minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, it is a relatively easy drive into the city. For those preferring not to drive, Sausalito also is a ferry terminus for the Golden Gate Ferry, offering quick, inexpensive transportation into the city.

As a center of activity, Sausalito offers a wide variety of things to do. Stroll along the waterfront or hike in the nearby Marin Headlands, visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum or take the Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour – there is, indeed, something for everyone. Every Labor Day weekend Sausalito hosts what is considered to be one of the finest outdoor art festivals in the country. In December, residents and visitors alike are treated to the Lighted Yacht Parade. Then there is the tantalizing peek into some of Sausalito’s most fascinating real estate with the annual Sausalito Floating Homes Tour.

Real estate in Sausalito is diverse and interesting. Although there are many custom homes designed by well known architects, Sausalito may be best known for its floating homes. These unique homes are located in several private marinas and have all the modern conveniences, including cable TV and computer services. Originally houseboats that served as holiday retreats and artist’s lodgings, these homes have evolved into some pretty amazing structures, ranging from quaint, cozy cottages to elegant floating mansions.

For those who prefer terra firma beneath their feet, Sausalito provides an interesting array of traditional housing ranging from custom designed homes perched on the hillsides surrounding the bay to stylish condominiums close to town. Homes in the Wolfback Ridge neighborhood are exclusive and provide expansive views of the surrounding area; and for the discerning and patient mid-century modern enthusiast, homes designed by architects such as Mario Corbett and Roger Lee occasionally come on the market. Housing in Sausalito does tend to be expensive, especially for homes with a view, but proximity to San Francisco, the great Mediterranean climate, and interesting architecture make every dollar well spent.

Not all of Sausalito is glitz and glamour, however. Sausalito has a long history with industry, including boatbuilding, and has been home to many well-known boatyards, the most notable being the Spaulding Wooden Boat Center. As one of the last wooden boatyards on the west coast, Spaulding Center is a living museum dedicated to restoring historically significant wooden boats and the preservation of traditional boatbuilding skills.

Another piece of industrial history in Sausalito can be found in the Heath Ceramics factory. Founded in the mid-1940′s by Edith Heath, Heath Ceramics is one of the few mid-century American potteries still in existence. Every facet of every piece is produced in the Sausalito factory, often using the original techniques developed by Edith Heath so many years ago. Heath Ceramics also has a Factory Store, open seven days a week, and offers tours on weekends.

Housing costs in Sausalito tend to be on the high side, especially for homes on the hillsides with their exquisite views of the Bay. The comfortable climate, transportation and commuting choices, and beautiful surroundings help to keep the Sausalito real estate market steady.

Renee Adelmann of Marin Modern Real Estate specializes in Sausalito real estate. Find out more about the town of Sausalito or search for homes for sale in Marin.

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