Purchasing a New Home in Rolando, San Diego

 

Brought to you by The Michels Group

Rolando, San Diego

About Rolando: Rolando is located just 3.1 miles from beautiful Lake Murray and 15 minutes east of downtown San Diego. Rolando is a neighborhood of the Mid-City region of San Diego, California. Rolando is mostly residential with the exception of El Cajon Boulevard, which features the Campus Plaza shopping center. Rolando is divided by University Avenue into two sections: Rolando Village to the north, and Rolando Park to the south. Decorative public walkways known as "Catwalks" for pedestrians and joggers to travel between neighborhood streets are spread throughout Rolando. Rolando hosts two elementary schools, both part of the San Diego Unified School District: Henry Clay Elementary and Rolando Park Elementary Schools.

Current Single Family Homes For Sale: There are currently 7 detached homes for sale in Rolando.  The average home is 3 bedroom, two bath,  1365 square feet with an average sale price of $630,000.

Lake Murray: Lake Murray is a reservoir in San Diego, California, operated by the City of San Diego's Public Utilities Department. It is located within Mission Trails Regional Park. When full, the reservoir covers 171.1 acres, has a maximum water depth of 95 feet, and a shoreline of 3.2 miles.  There is a wonderful trail that goes around the lake for running, walking, dog walking and biking.

Location: Rolando 15 minutes East of downtown San Diego and 3 miles from Lake Murray.  It is bordered by College area to the North, La Mesa to the East, Oak Park to the West and Lemon Grove to the South.

Hiking/Biking: As mentioned previously Lake Murray is a terrific place to get some shade, enjoy the lake and get some exercise.  Just to the South is the tiny oasis known as Chollas Lake Park. A 16-acre lake for free youth fishing (age 15 and under ONLY); an 8/10-of-a-mile dirt path around the lake for walking, jogging, and bicycling; picnic tables with barbecue grills; children's play equipment; a small basketball court; hiking trails; and a multi-purpose ball field in North Chollas canyon. 

Other Cool Hikes in the Area:

Mission Trails Regional Park.  Directions to Mission Trails from Rolando

Balboa Park: Directions to Balboa Park from Rolando

Morley Field: Directions to Morley Field from Rolando

Local Breweries:

While Rolando does not have any local breweries there are quite a few in close proximity. 13 minutes Southwest is the town of North Park and the beer famous 30th Street. North Park is home to 14 local craft breweries.  Some of my favorites are

Mike Hess Brewing

Modern Times Brewing

Just to the East in the town of La Mesa there are a couple of fun breweries to add to your list as well.

Little Miss Brewing

Helix Brewing

Wine Tasting Rooms: While there are no tasting rooms in Rolando just go 8 minutes to the East to the village of La Mesa!

San Pasqual Winery

La Mesa Wine Works

Rolando Coffee Shops:

Ultreya Coffee

Duet Coffee

and of course....Starbucks

Breakfast Joints in Rolando:

Directions to the Daily Grind Cafe

Sunshine Pancake House

Best Dinner Locations in Rolando:

Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen

Garden Kitchen........Hidden Gem!!!

Thank you from the Michels Group, Real Estate Professionals.  If and when you are ready to sell or purchase a home, please consider us to be your Realtor of choice. Or if you wish to refer someone you know and care about, we are here to help. Thanks to you, our business continues to thrive and grow due to referrals from clients, friends, associates, and others just like you!  Who is the next person you know who would benefit from our services?

What Real Estate is Available in Carlsbad Near Lake Calavera, San Diego

 

Brought to you by The Michels Group

Lake Calavera, San Diego

About Carlsbad: The town of Carlsbad is located just 35 miles North from downtown San Diego and 87 miles South from Los Angeles. The aptly nicknamed “Village by the sea" has an average household income hovering around $105,000 per year. At the time of this posting there are 45 single family detached homes for sale ranging from $495,000 - $2,400,000 within 3 miles of the beautiful area surrounding Calavera Lake.   The lake community is located just 15 minutes from the beach and the villages restaurants and shopping.

About: Calavera means "Skull" in Spanish. There are more than six miles of trails, open to hikers, mountain bikers and dogs on leashes, crisscross the preserve.  Where else so close to San Diego can you hike an extinct Volcano?  The trails here are well groomed and feature a small lake, creek and wooden bridge.  You can hike to the rim or even walk out onto the crater and read about the history of the volcano.

Location: Carlsbad 30-40 minutes North of San Diego just east of the coastal town of Carlsbad. Directions.

Hiking/Biking: There are miles of trails to be hiked, biked or run at the extinct Volcano.  Hikes vary from easy to strenuous.

Other Cool Hikes in the Area:

Copper Creek Falls. Directions from Lake Calavera

San Elijo Lagoon. Directions from Lake Calavera

Local Breweries:

Carlsbad is home to quite a few microbreweries.  A simple Google search will reveal their names and locations to you.  The breweries listed below are two of San Diego's oldest and best. Karl Strauss has a full menu while at Pizza Port you can enjoy pizza of course.

Karl Strauss Brewing

Pizza Port Brewing

Wine Tasting Rooms:

Witch Creek Winery

Carlsbad Coffee Shops:

Sleeping Tiger Coffee

Baba Coffee

Vinaka Coffee

Breakfast Joints in Carlsbad:

Swami's Cafe

Beach Plum Kitchen

Beach Break Cafe

 

Thank you from the Michels Group, Real Estate Professionals.  If and when you are ready to sell or purchase a home, please consider us to be your Realtor of choice. Or if you wish to refer someone you know and care about, we are here to help. Thanks to you, our business continues to thrive and grow due to referrals from clients, friends, associates, and others just like you!  Who is the next person you know who would benefit from our services?

 

http://www.themichelsgroup.com/

Contact Us

619-742-4170

5 Tips to Make Working at Home a Succcess

We don’t all, under usual circumstances, have the luxury of working from home.  So here are a few things that as a work from home guy for the past 20 years have found to be useful!

1)      Set your alarm, get out of bed, and get dressed for work.

a.       Yes, set your alarm! You are going to work and its important to get into that mindset

b.       Don’t stray from your normal routine.  If you get up make coffee and jump in the shower before hopping in the car to drive to the office, then do it.  The steps are still the same, you’re just heading into a new office

c.       Get dressed.  It super easy to sit around in pajamas all day when you don’t have to go meet someone.  But You are WAY less productive.  Dress for success, even when no one is watching, it will help your mind switch into work mode!

2)      Create a designated Office Space

a.       Not all of us have 2500 square foot homes with 2 extra bedrooms, am I right? (If you need to buy or sell one, I can help!). But that doesn’t mean you don’t have to go into an office.  Find a space, any space! Something that you can say (to those furry kids too) I’m at work, go away! 😊

b.       If you have an extra room, a shed, a basement, anything.  Even if you must partition off just part of your kitchen table or island, do it! You must have space to work, preferably uninterrupted (for 90 mins at a time, but we’ll get to that).

c.       Try to make sure this a space you can come back to every day.  Building a habit is helpful

3)      Work in 90 min increments

a.       When you work, work! And work hard, but everyone needs a break.  Research has shown (Check out the book  “The Power of Full Engagement” for more on this) that if you can put your head down and focus on the task at hand for 90 mins you can get a lot more done.

b.       Take 15 min breaks every 90 mins. This is the old work hard, play hard mantra.  But its true.  If you put in 90 mins of solid work, step away.  Go take a 10 min nap, do a meditation, check that the kids haven’t burned down the kitchen or the dog hasn’t eaten up your stash of coveted toilet paper, but completely step away, just 15 mins!

4)      Walk out the door!

a.       Yep, that’s right! Believe me just do it!  Walk out the door, get in your car, put your hands on the steering wheel, then get out!! Now go back inside and go straight to your space and get to work!

b.       I know it seems strange, but this is a mindset thing. Tell yourself, you’re going to work. It helps!

c.       When you’re done for the day repeat leave again and come back!

5)      Practice, Practice, Practice

a.       As with anything in life, this is not going to be perfect the first time through.  Give yourself a little grace.

b.       There will be interruptions. Best to deal with them and move on! Over time, you can become great at getting things done from the comfort of your own home.

Prop 5 - Property Tax Transfer Initiative

8 Steps to Follow When Buying a Newly Constructed Home

Buying a newly constructed home can give you more options than a previously owned home. You can choose the cabinets, flooring and possibly the floor plan. And you will be the first family to live this home!

However, buying a new home can also create some challenges: additional expenses, location, unreliable builders, and having the home finished in a timely manner.

Follow these 8 steps before buying a newly constructed home and the process will be smoother.

Get Preapproved First

When buying a previously owned or a newly constructed home, get funding preapproval so you know how much you can spend on a home. Keep in mind the total cost will also include any additional upgrades you want before your home is built.

Consider the Pros and Cons of New Construction

First decide if you want to buy a spec home; a home built as part of a development; or a custom home built to your specifications on your site. Before you decide on a newly built home, consider the following:

·         Will you have a reasonable commute to work or areas you normally spend time in?

·         Are you willing to put in the work for new landscaping and to wait years for trees to mature?

·         Do you mind having a home that has a floor plan and paint scheme similar to your neighbors?

·         Today many developments have homes built closer together with little space between them. Do you mind being that close to your neighbors?

Use Your Own Realtor

Many builders will want you to use their lender and their real estate agents.  Get your own real estate agent! The builder’s team is looking out for the builder’s interest, not yours.

Have your agent introduce you to the builder first.  Don’t go there without having representation.  Some builders will not let you bring in an agent if you’ve gone to them first so contact your agent before looking at new construction.  In addition, many builder’s will pressure you to use their agents if you come in without your own agent.

Research the Builder

Do as much research on the builder as you can.  Are they reputable?  Have they built other developments like the one you’re interested in.  Do they have any complaints or legal action against them?

Check out their websites. Research the internet. Check with the Better Business Bureau. In California, you also can check the Contractor’s State License Board for any complaints against the builder.

Understand the Floor Plan and What Customizations or Upgrades You Can Have

First, look closely at the floor plans and if you have a choice, choose the one that will fit your needs the best. If you don’t understand anything on the floor plan, ask questions.  The builder’s sales rep will assume you understand what is on the plans and that can cause problems later. Ask lots of questions!

Also, understand what customizations or upgrades you can make before building.  Some developments will limit the customizations while others will provide a broader range of items you can customize. Some builders will give you only 2 or 3 options for flooring, while others may have 5 or more options.

Don’t forget to ask the cost. If you want marble counters but the builder was putting in solid surface countertops, it may cost you more. Don’t forget to include all upgrades in the total costs.

Make decisions on customizations and upgrades as soon as possible.  This will save money later. Deciding you want the house wired for a built-in security system after the electrical is finished will result in more work for the builder. This will cost you more and it may delay your closing time. So make all upgrade and customization decisions before construction starts.

Check to see if the development will have a Home Owner’s Association (HOA).  Ask for fees and rules.  Many fees can be very expensive and many HOA’s can fine homeowners for any infractions of the rules.  Make sure you know what is expected and if those rules will fit your lifestyle.  Many will restrict what color you can paint your house, what remodeling you can and can’t do, if you can a vegetable garden or not, and so on.

Don’t forget to ask if there are any amenities included with the purchase.  Will there be a clubhouse, a park, a gated community, a playground, etc.

Get Everything in Writing

Once you’ve decided on the floor plan and upgrades, have all the information put into a contract.  Then have a real estate lawyer review the contract before you sign it.

Make sure there is information about the timeline to complete the home and what happens if it isn’t completed by the agreed upon time. 

Ask About Warranties

Most builders offer warranties on workmanship and materials.  Make sure you understand what is and what isn’t covered by the warranties.  In addition, make sure you know what steps to follow if you need to have something repaired under a warranty.

Get an Independent Home Inspector

New homes can have as many issues as a previously owned one so make sure you have the home inspected by an independent certified home inspector.  Don’t use an inspector the builder recommends. Don’t use your father-in-law or friend.  Certified home inspectors will look at everything: the roof, the electrical and heating systems, the plumbing, the foundation, etc.

Be there for the inspection and ask questions.  You and your family will be living in this home and you should understand as much about it as you can.  If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification.

As the closing time approaches, rely on your team (your real estate agent, your lender, and your lawyer) to help through the last few steps.  Once escrow has closes, you’re ready to be the first family to live in your new home.  Congratulations!

Contact me if you’re interested in a newly constructed home, and I'll guide you through the steps outlined above!

Rental Scammers!

Due to soaring house prices and interest rates, many people are unable to purchase a home and are having to rent instead of buy. Although this may be okay in the short-term, the long-term benefits of home ownership can severely outweigh any positives of renting. The steady increase in renting has the attention of internet scammers, who are using rental properties as a cover to steal your hard-earned money. These are called “Craigslist Rental Scammers,” but they can happen anywhere online. Here are a few ways to help protect you in a search for a rental property: It’s Too Good To Be True If you feel as though a rental is too good to be true, it probably is. Often times, scammers use extremely low prices and overly flexible leases to spark your interest. In the current market, renting is not that simple. Landlord Wants Too Much Before You See Anything If the landlord asks you to wire money or provide your information before you even see the inside, it is a scam. Often time scammers will tell you to drive by the outside, instead of letting you visit the property. This is a huge red flag. No Information If they don’t ask for information from you before prompting for money, this is a scam. Most legitimate landlords need you to fill out an application, legal documents and provide documentation before a deposit is requested. Bad Grammar, Illegitimate Emails & Screening Phone Calls If the potential landlord has error-ridden emails/texts, illegitimate email addresses, or refuses to take phone calls, there is a good chance you are being taken advantage of. Overseas Landlord If the property is being handled by someone for an owner who is “overseas”, be cautious. They will insist they are managing the property for the real owner but disappears with your deposit. Although the housing market is very competitive, our team has experienced professionals that will guide potential home buyers and make them feel at ease. Call us today find out how we can help you or your clients get into a new home. *Information provided courtesy of Summit Funding

Should You Install Solar Panels?

Deciding to install solar panels is a significant decision with many variables.  Should you lease or buy? How should you finance the installation? How much savings will you receive from leasing or buying? How do you find a reputable company?

Determine if Solar is Right for You

The first step is to determine if your home is appropriate for solar.  You don’t need to have sun all the time for solar power but you do need to determine if your property has the right amount of sunlight.

If you want roof mounted panels, look closely at your roof and determine if sunlight is hitting the right spot.  South facing roofs are best but East and West facing roofs work almost as well.  If your roof faces North, don’t mount panels on the roof. Consider a ground mounted system if feasible.  Even in sunny California, you may not get enough sun in the right spot for solar power.

Also determine if there are any obstacles to the sunlight: trees, other homes, hills, etc. You want the spot to receive as much sun as possible.

Calculate Your Savings

The first step is to determine how much your utility company is charging you for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity you use.  This cost can vary widely depending on where you live.

A solar system is basically a small power plant installed on your roof similar to the large power plant a utility company employs to provide electricity.  Keep in mind that homeowners with higher electricity rates will have greater savings when they switch to solar.

There are several online options for determining how much you will save with a solar system. You can use a search engine by inputting solar system calculator or visit sites likes www.energysage.com. You can also search your local utility company to see if they offer calculators programmed for your area. In San Diego, San Diego Gas & Electric offers such a calculator to it’s customers.

Determine if You Will Lease or Buy

For many years, most homeowners opted to lease their solar systems. However, more homeowners are now buying their systems.

When you lease or enter into a Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA), you do not own the system; you are renting the system from the company. Leasing is very convenient but doesn’t offer the same savings as buying the system would give you.

With leasing, there is little or no upfront money required; you are not responsible for any maintenance; and you may still acquire federal, state and local tax credits if offered. However, your savings will be less; you lose control of your roof since the company can determine where and how many panels to install; buyers may not want a leased system if you try to sell your home; and leasing maintenance plans are not always favorable to the homeowner.

Buying a solar system requires more research and decision making for the homeowner.  It’s recommended that you get several estimates from various companies.  Sometimes the best deal is not with the largest company in your area.  Numerous small companies offer better deals than larger ones. Look closely at what you want and how you’re going to finance the project.

As with other services, check the Better Business Bureau to find a reputable and reliable company.  Don’t forget to ask for recommendations from your friends and family. Also check online reviews but don’t rely solely on one source.  Look at all sources before making a decision on which company to choose. Once you have chosen a company, ask for references and call them.  Buying a solar system is a sizable expense; use all your resources to get the best deal for you.

Buying a system has both pros and cons.  First, buying provides you with flexible financing options. You can pay cash, use a home equity loan or obtain a solar loan. Second, a solar system that is bought and paid for improves the selling value of your home. Finally, as with leasing, you may still acquire federal, state and local tax credits if offered.

On the negative side, buying a system requires a lot of upfront money if you use cash for the purchase.  The return on investment may take anywhere from five to ten years. In addition, the owner is responsible for any maintenance costs.

Don’t forget to contact your insurance company before installing the system. You may need to increase your policy to cover the panels. Also, check with your homeowner’s association before installing and find out if there are any rules or restrictions that need to be considered first.

After you’ve installed the system, stay connected to your utility company.  There may be times when you will need to supplement your electricity in case there’s an emergency; your system may go down; or not produce enough electricity during less sunny seasons.

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