Get Your Orange County Home Dressed for Success

“It looks fantastic!” These are the magic words everyone longs to hear about their Orange County home. Well-deserved praise reflects your impeccable style, good taste, and flawless judgment. But aside from sending your ego into a high-velocity orbit, there’s another good reason for making sure your home sweet home is a shining example of beauty –

It’s Gotta Have the Look That Sells

This is a fact of life. Like it or not, a home’s appearance has a deep psychological impact on prospective buyers. Sure, sure, you’ve got the world’s most gorgeous designer furnishings on display. And you’ve gone over every nook and cranny to make absolutely sure the place sparkles with cleanliness. But these steps are only a beginning. Creating the total look and feel that says sales appeal requires nothing less than the sheer artistry of superb staging.
Acclaimed interior designer Melissa Spangler has staged numerous Orange County homes. Through her company, Spangler Design Development, she’s helped many of these properties sell in record time. Melissa would like to share some of her personal insights with anyone selling or considering the sale of their home –
“It takes enormous time and energy to sell a home, especially in this soft market. Because things are so tight, sellers basically have two choices: Lower the sales price or make their home appealing enough to attract a broad spectrum of buyers. Staging is the most inexpensive way to accomplish the latter.”
Melissa sees the art of staging as 8 basic phases, each critical to upping a home’s sales appeal to acceptable levels.

1. De-Personalize – As stunning as your house may be, no buyers want to see your home as yours. They want to see it as theirs. This requires full-scale de-personalization. As quickly as humanly possible, remove all photos of your kids’ soccer team from the fridge, all event schedules from the walls, etc. In other words, purge the place of anything that screams YOU.

2. Minimize – Do you like stepping on junior’s roller blades? Neither do prospective buyers. They’re much more attracted to clean, clear spaces. So de-clutter with extreme prejudice. Put those toys away, clear counters of extraneous objects, and just say ‘no’ to knickknacks. To create the impression of more closet space, remove all those dusty garments you haven’t worn since Clinton was president. And be sure to re-locate all furniture you won’t need in your new place. Store it, sell it on eBay, whatever. Just make sure it’s good and gone.

3. Deep Clean – Rub, wipe, and rinse like your house depends on it. Because it does. Doesn’t matter if it’s the middle of an Arctic cold December. You’re doing spring cleaning, baby! Pour it on. This means floors, windows, walls, fridge. You get the idea.

4. Stick to Neutral Colors – OK, sure. Maybe a buyer will love your hot pink bedroom. Then again, the color could make another reel in horror. So make sure your wall colors are neutral, even if you have to cruise on down to the local hardware store and plunk down a wad of cash for a dozen gallons of paint. A great neutral color is water chestnut. This is a ‘fail-safe’ sandy shade that’s easy on the eyes and goes with any kind of home — contemporary, country, traditional, cottage of the Seven Dwarves, etc. If possible, go with a paint that’s low VOC (volatile organic compounds). Not only is this type eco-friendly, it minimizes those lingering odors that can be problematic for people with issues like allergies and asthma.

5. Give Them Something to Remember – Every room should have something important to say — a special touch that lingers in the memories of prospective buyers. Some of the many possibilities are: arranging a unique grouping of pillows on a bed; dressing up a dining room for a special occasion; and displaying plants in strategic locations.

6. Create Curb Appeal – Do unto the outside as you did indoors. So de-personalize, de-clutter, and deep-clean the exterior of your home. It all has to be perfectly manicured. Remember, if prospective buyers don’t feel good about the outside of a home, chances are astronomically high they won’t bother setting foot indoors.

7. Get a Second Opinion – If you staged the home yourself, invite a friend or neighbor inside for a test run. They may very well spot a smudge of chocolate mocha pudding that slipped in under your radar.

8. Hire a Great Real Estate Agent- If you’d like to sell your home for the highest price, go with an experienced professional who’s passionate about helping you reach your goals. Hillary Caston has worked very closely with Melissa for a number of years. By combining their expertise, the partners have achieved the amazing feat of selling of ALL of Hillary’s listings in 10 Days or Less!
If you’d like to learn more about improving your home’s sales appeal with expert staging, Melissa Spangler will be more than happy to help. Feel free to contact her at Melissa@Spanglerinteriors.com.

And be sure to connect with me if you’re interested in getting the most out of buying or selling a Laguna Beach luxury property or any other Orange County home.

Feel free to contact me at 949.922.8490 or hillary@thecoastalpropertyexperts.com.

FREE GAS — Get a gift card worth $25 at the pump for every referral you give our office.

Regards,
Hillary Caston

Sunshine for Sale: Why the British Should Jump on U.S. Real Estate

Warm temperatures and blue skies regularly draw thousands of British citizens to the world’s hot spots. In fact, destinations such as Spain, Italy, and the south of France often become second homes to many UK residents seeking bountiful sunshine for months on end.

Now these legions of British sun-worshipers have even more reason to rejoice. Somewhere dream homes can be had for unbelievably low prices. The new hot destination place is the United States, and the price has never been more right!

It all comes down to basic international economics. An exchange rate favorable to England has sent the almighty dollar into a tailspin. The result? The pound is pounding the dollar.

So How Far Does the Dollar Stretch?

Quite a bit, right now, a pound is worth $1.57. This means approximately 1.3 million pounds will buy a $2 million home in the U.S. Quite a hefty discount; but the savings become even more pronounced as the sale price rises. For example, plunking down 2.5 million pounds will get you a stunning $4 million dollar Luxury Laguna Beach property, with a breathtaking view of the shimmering blue Pacific Ocean. In effect, this monetary imbalance has transformed the U.S. Real Estate marketplace into a giant bargain basement for anyone with pounds to spend.

High Velocity Purchases

Besides bargain prices, the U.S. Real Estate market offers UK buyers another major advantage – speed. On average, American home purchases are completed start to finish (including mortgage arranging) in a peppy 4-6 weeks. Things move considerably slower on the big island across the Atlantic.

The Call of the Coast

The British are overwhelmingly drawn to the sea. It’s an attraction that comes into play whether they’re buying an overseas property as a second home or an investment. As a result, many U.S. coastal communities are always top choices for UK homebuyers. Of course, much more than sun and fun lies behind this overwhelming popularity. The similarity of U.S. and UK cultures gives the British an instant connection with the land of red, white, and blue. After all, there’s a lot to be said for feeling right at home in your second home.

Come to Where the Sun Shines Brightest

If you’re a UK citizen seeking the ultimate coastal escape, you need look no further than Laguna Beach. The sun just seems to shine a little brighter in this coastal paradise. And thanks to a very vigorous pound, this beautiful beachfront community can be yours for a song. If you’d like to learn why Laguna Beach is your ideal second home or investment destination, I’ll be delighted to help. As one of the area’s premier Coastal Property Experts, I can answer all of your questions and help you discover the numerous opportunities the Laguna Beach Real Estate market has to offer.

Feel free to contact me at 949.922.8490 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949.922.8490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or hillary@thecoastalpropertyexperts.com.

FREE GAS — Get a gift card worth $25 at the pump for every referral you give our office.

Regards,

How to Save Over $2 Million

Hillary’s Pick of the Week – 10/27/10

For this week’s edition, I’ve uncovered three truly amazing deals on the breezy shores of Laguna Beach. If you’re ready to save millions on an Orange County Home, you just have to take a look at these incredible oceanfront bargains.

$7,999,000 2049 Ocean Way Laguna Beach HOM Real Estate Group Brian G. Johnson

Perched on a prime clifftop location overlooking a breathtaking expanse of Pacific Ocean, this architectural masterpiece offers the finest in Laguna Beach living. Take in spectacular ocean views from several decks or an outdoor patio. Luxurious interior highlighted by a stunning gourmet kitchen featuring an open floor plan and built-in custom rosewood cabinetry, glass skylight/deck, and high-end Miele, Sub-Zero, and Viking appliances. This beautiful beachfront home is on the market for only $7,999,000.

$9,000,000 2107 Ocean Way Laguna Beach Coast Southeby’s Int. Realty Kindy Slagle

Experience the exhilaration of dramatic golden sunsets and picturesque Catalina Island ocean views from this private oceanfront hideaway. Superbly designed home is beautifully enhanced by curved glass, high ceilings, a dual fireplace, and four spacious bedrooms with open living areas. Luxurious touches include limestone and granite finishes with smooth textured walls, an expansive master suite, a master bath graced by a round jet tub, and two ocean view balconies overlooking stunning shoreline rock formations. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing day at the beach, oceanfront shopping, or fine dining, it’s all a short walk away from this exquisite home. Offered at an amazingly low $9,000,000.

$10,000,000 2015 Ocean Way Laguna Beach Laguna Coast Real Estate Catherine Porter

Stylish Cape Cod custom beach house offers breathtaking views of Lover’s Cove and Woods Cove beaches. Remodeled in 2009, this secluded domain is graced by hardwood mahogany floors, designer finishes, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a chef quality kitchen featuring Viking/Subzero appliances. Floor to ceiling glass walls open out to soothing vistas of powdery white beaches, tide pools, stunning stretches of coastline, and the rugged beauty of Catalina Island. Enjoy unforgettable times with family and friends on a secluded patio highlighted by a BBQ center, fire pit, and ambient lighting. This coastline treasure is an incredible find at $10,000,000.

If you’d like to learn more about these or any other Laguna Beach home, I’ll be delighted to help. As one of the area’s premier Coastal Property Experts, I can answer all of your questions and help you discover the numerous opportunities the Laguna Beach Real Estate market has to offer. Feel free to contact me at 949.922.8490 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949.922.8490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or hillary@thecoastalpropertyexperts.com.

The Coming Change in FICO Scoring

Orange County Real Estate certainly has had its share of disruptions stemming from the current flood of distressed sales (i.e. short sales, foreclosures, bankruptcies, notices of default). Currently, there are 2 million distress sales on record nationwide, with another 2 million mortgages that are 90 days delinquent.

The primary reason for the trouble is that these black marks are the equivalent of dropping a bomb on your FICO score. A 750 can sink into the 500’s with startling speed. Lending institutions are plenty scared of all the credit-tarnished folks. Low score equals high risk. And the last thing a bank needs is another loan default in their swelling collections. If you’re one of the thousands of low score people, you’ll have an easier time climbing Mt. Everest in your bare feet than you will getting a home loan. For instance, if you’ve done a short sale, you’re facing a two year wait. A foreclosure will have you waiting it out for five to seven years. The upshot is that thousands and thousands of people are now disqualified from obtaining home loans.

Now here’s the dilemma. In order to pump up our economy, two essential things must happen:

1. People absolutely, positively need to have jobs.
2. People need to buy homes.

But how can a sufficient number of people buy homes if so many have been automatically disqualified by unsatisfactory FICO scores?

Dr. Hillary has a very simple prescription for relieving this major Real Estate body ache: overhaul the FICO scoring system so that many more people qualify for home loans. This entails doing one or both of the following:

1. Lowering the optimum FICO score to a more realistic level
2. Modifying the criteria used for determining a score.

I really believe the laws of economics will force this FICO adjustment. It’s inevitable. Banks don’t make money unless they make loans, right? Something has to give. And if economic pressures don’t shake things up, I’m fully prepared to persuade the lending institutions single-handedly.

In the meantime, many of you want an Orange County Home, and you want it now. So here are Hillary’s tips for protecting your credit score and boosting your chances of securing that all-important home loan.

• If you’re in escrow, don’t make a credit purchase for any one item costing $2,000 or more. Such a move could really smack your credit score down.
• Don’t open or close a new credit card prior to or during escrow. Again, a major credit score reducer.
• Never pay any bill late for any reason, especially during escrow.
• Never give your social security number to anyone while in escrow. The number could be used to facilitate a credit check, which in turn kicks your FICO score southward. This means, if you’re car hunting, keep your social security number privileged information. No social security number equals no credit check equals no lowering of score. Get the idea?

Ever been turned down for credit? Buy something you shouldn’t have? Have a credit experience you’re bursting at the seams to share? Hillary wants to hear all about it. Feel free to leave an illuminating comment on my blog. I’ll be happy to follow up with any help or insights that I can dig out of my creative reservoir.

You can also connect with me at 949.922.8490 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949.922.8490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or hillary@thecoastalpropertyexperts.com.

Hillary’s Pick of the Week – 10/20/10

For this week’s edition, my search for the best of the best has uncovered a trio of jewels that definitely qualify as the three most expensive Orange County Homes on the market. Just feast your eyes on these beauties.

$24,000,000 22 Emerald Bay Laguna Beach HOM Real Estate Group Robert Giem

Designed by acclaimed architect Christ Light, a magnificent new home of nearly 5,000 square feet will be constructed on this sweeping oceanfront lot. Offers direct access to breathtaking Emerald Bay, a three car garage, and a pool just several feet from the sand. You and your guests will thrill to spectacular surf-line views and gorgeous golden sunsets year round. The lot stands out among Emerald Bay properties, offering a uniquely gentle slope to the beach and a more livable home with a lower vertical rise. A lot of wow for $24,000,000.

$19,950,000 31401 Mar Vista Laguna Beach Mark Whitehead Realty Mark Whitehead

Newly completed in 2010, this contemporary grand view estate rises over nearly12 beachfront acres of natural vegetation. Nestled within hundreds of acres of open land protected by no-building regulations, the property is a true architectural masterpiece ensuring the soothing comfort of complete privacy. You have the privilege of entering this sequestered domain via private bridge leading to a secluded motor court with 2 sets of garages and parking accommodations for up to 20 cars. Inviting atmosphere enhanced by colorful stones and plants blending seamlessly into the warm, cheery surroundings. Inside, you’ll discover extraordinarily large bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, formal and informal living and dining rooms, a grand kitchen, theater, and library. You and your guests also will delight in the infinity edge pool and spa, multiple deck gardens, private courtyards, entertaining areas, and a separate guest suite/games room. This jewel will shine for you for $19,950, 000.

$35,000,000 31887 Circle Dr. Laguna Beach Paul Realty J. Paul

Nestled in the serenity of a private drive, this turnkey pied a’ terre sits on Laguna’s premier promontory and looks out onto California’s stunning trophy beach. Offers a spectacular panorama of rugged outcroppings, geysering rock-splash, mysterious caves, sparkling tide pools etched into a rich abundance of diverse topographical highlights. This exquisite work of art features grandfathered forward position on promontory, walls of angled & reflective glass, and incomparable privacy woven into a spectacular views. Enjoy a greeting of morning sun as well as magnificent Catalina sunsets without direct heat or glare. Evening take on their own magic as you gaze out into a breathtaking panorama of twinkling lights. The home so close, & close enough to ‘touch’ waves without a cliffhanger feeling. Indulge your senses in one of the world’s most captivating oceanfronts for $35,000,000.

If you’d like to learn more about these or any other Laguna Beach homes, I’ll be delighted to help. As one of the area’s premier Coastal Property Experts, I can answer all of your questions and help you discover the numerous opportunities the Laguna Beach Real Estate market has to offer.

Feel free to contact me at 949.922.8490 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949.922.8490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or hillary@thecoastalpropertyexperts.com.