Adam Brett's Blog - All Things Real Estate in Fullerton and Beyond

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To make an offer on a short sale - Or not?

Today I showed some clients homes in the $350,000 listed as short sales which sold for more than $550,000 less than 1 year ago.  These are all over the place.

The questions is:  Are these kinds of properties shortable?  Will the bank(s) approve a loss like this?

My experience tells me 'no', but it is my job to give it a try.

What is your experience with these types on numbers and getting the sale approved.  

I told my clients it doesn't hurt to write an offer and it might take a while.  But if it happens, great! 

10 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 26 2008 10:13PM

Do what is best for the client - always...

I have seen to many times when an agent looks out for themselves and not the client.  I am a huge believer in Karma and feel these agents will get what they deserve.  However it bugs me to see this happening and knowing there is nothing I can do about it.

You are not allowed to contact the seller and tell them there is a better way.  You cannot tell the agent what to do - this will just cause bad blood.  You cannot, or at least I won't, tell others the agent is not doing good things for their client.  

Just a small rant as I am seeing this happen right now.  

5 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 26 2008 09:46PM

National Register of Historic Places Buildings in Fullerton - Landmark Plaza Building

Landmark Plaza Building

 

 

comptemorary picture of the building


Located at 122 N. Harbor Boulevard
Map

Originally: Farmers and Merchants Bank
Location: 122 N. Harbor Boulevard
1904: Beaux Arts Style (redesigned in 1922)

The Farmers and Merchants Bank building, initially constructed in 1904, received its beautifully detailed beaux-arts facade in 1922. Frank Benchley, a local architect, designed this embellishment. Accented with ornate classical motifs, this two-story building located on the southeast corner of Amerige Avenue and Harbor Boulevard is the only example of the Beaux-Arts style in Fullerton.

A dramatic diagonal corner entrance, crowned with a decorated parapet, provides the focus for the front (north and west) facades. The use of shields, recessed panels, faux stone, molded trim, and classical floral motifs provides the decoration for the exterior of these building sides. The facade of the first floor appears much as it did after the remodel in 1922. Glazed terra-cotta tile in a rich honey color forms the pilasters and cornice of the first floor. Light gray granite is used on the bulkhead below each window and at the bottom of the pilasters. When the building was extensively rehabilitated in 1989, the windows on the second floor were removed, and a wrought iron railing was installed between the openings. The floor plan of the second story was redesigned so that a perimeter corridor now provides the access to numerous tenant spaces. One difference may also be noted on the first floor: the building no longer has a central entrance at the south end along the west facade.

The Farmers and Merchants Bank - the forerunner to the Bank of Italy and later the Bank of America -- played a significant role in the economic development of the city. It was the first bank in Fullerton and was founded and continually managed by the area's most prominent citizens of this era: Charles C. Chapman, Attilio Pierotti, Samuel Kraemer, E. K. Benchley, August Tousseau and others. Indeed, there was a direct connection between the bank and the citrus industry. All of the men gained their fame and wealth with their involvement in the citrus and packing packing house industry, and all owned large ranches. The list of directors and officers of the bank were the same men who shaped the city during the first three decades of the 20th century.

After the Bank of America vacated the building in 1944, the Fullerton Music Company occupied it for over 40 years. The building was completely rehabilitated in 1989, when it was converted for use as a multi-tenant commercial building and given the name Landmark Plaza.

historical picture of the building

0 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 24 2008 12:59PM

National Register of Historic Places Buildings in Fullerton - John Hetebrink House

John Hetebrink House

 

 

comptemorary picture of the building


Located at 515 E. Chapman Ave.
Map

Location: 515 E. Chapman Ave.
1914: Mission Revival

This magnificent structure is the finest example of residential Mission Revival architecture in Fullerton. This residence features unique detailing, and its prominent parapet, scalloped arched openings on the centered balcony, Egyptian-influenced columns and capitals, leaded and beveled glass windows, arched doorway and sidelights, bands of casement windows, and open porches with large cast concrete urns, distinguish the house like no other in Fullerton.

The house and a detached garage set back well over 200 feet from the street. A long, horse shoe-shaped driveway has been retained like its initial layout and provides a remarkable setting for the residence.

The two-story structure contains approximately 4,500 square feet including a basement. The original garage, located about 50 feet to the north of the house, is designed in the same style and materials. Like the house, red clay tiles cover a hipped roof and a parapet crowns the front fagade. Two types of cement brick were used for the house: a gray granite-faced cement brick for the first story and a white cement brick elsewhere. All of the brick were made on the property.

The interior has its original detailing and materials. Segmented arches, friezes, wood pilasters and cornice molding are character-defining features in the main rooms. Australian red gum and oak are used for woodwork and paneling in the house. The fireplace is built with dark shades of red and brown tile.

The house was built for John Hetebrink, a son of Henry Hetebrink who was one of the early settlers to the area. (The Hetebrink family is associated with two other significant properties, both of which are situated on what is is now the campus of C.S.U. Fullerton.) John Hetebrink became a successful farmer who made his own fortune in the tomato, walnut and citrus industries. This residence was once part of a 40-acre ranch north of Chapman Avenue where walnut and orange trees were propagated. The Hetebrinks were involved with many community activities, and the residence was often the site of meetings, events and parties.

Ownership of the property remains with the Hetebrink family, and it continues to be used as a residence.

The house is a unique example of the Craftsman tradition, which frequently worked with the Mission style. The exterior is completely intact, and the interior has seen few changes in its 85 years. The house and grounds truly retain the integrity of location, setting, design, workmanship and materials. historical picture of the building
1 comment • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 24 2008 12:57PM

4 Million iPhones out There - 20% of the Smartphone Market - Cell Phone Property Marketing

Apple just announced within 2 quarters they have captured over 20% of the smartphone market.  Why is this important?  Because it is the future - not just the iPhone but all media enabled phones.  The ability to have information at your fingertips.

Realtor.com is on board now with iphone.realtor.com. 

There is another system out there which works like this.

HOW IT WORKS:

1. The buyer calls the number on our sign rider or ad and enters the ID.

2. A message with photos and property information will be sent to their cell phone along with YOUR contact details straight from SOCAL.

3. You receive a text message or email with the caller's number.

 

 

What do you think.  Is this the next evolution? Is is junk like the talking house? 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton,CA
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

4 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 24 2008 12:42PM

Real Estate Technology is in - According to Realtor.com

I am sitting at the Mastering Real Estate - Marketing and Technology Workshop by Realtor.com. realtor.com  I was invited as anrealtor.com award recipient and decided to go even though I know they invited me to show the workshop attendees - 'Hey look - this guy can do it so can you.' 

But, while I listen to Max Pigman - the VP and Speaker for Realtor.com, he makes some very good points.

The basis of the seminar is how technology is taking over.  Text messaging, online information, how to interface with consumers.  

Then next generation is becoming more and more tech savvy inherently.  They are not going to school for this information, but it is becoming integrated into society.

technology

 

 

Social Networking is a huge trend. Myspace has over 100 million accounts.  This is in theory 1/3 of the population of the United States.  They are the next home buyers and sellers.  Their parents are the current market and are being influenced by their kids.  

For these reasons we are seeing agents who break away from the traditional model of Real Estate sales hold a market share.  They are coming into the industry with fresh eyes and a different perspective. 

Consumers want information fast and wherever they happen to be.  

Active Rain is a great start but don't stop here.  New tools are being produced every day.  

Adapt and evolve - you will be way ahead of the curve. 

 

 

 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton, CA
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

6 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 24 2008 12:16PM

How To Stay Out Of Trouble With Disclosures

I am fortunate my brother-in-law is a Real Estate E&O lawyer so I get a lot of tips how to stay out of trouble. 

One of the best had to do with disclosures, the #1 cause of lawsuits.

concrete crack

There are 2 rules:

  1. Disclose everything.
  2. Do not use descriptive words

 #1 is pretty straight forward.

 #2 means some things are open to interpretation and the seller and the buyer may differ in opinion on the disclosure. 

For example:  There is a crack in the concrete driveway and the seller discloses, "Minor cracks in driveway." This is not a good idea as what you deem minor, the buyer might see major.  You are safe with "Cracks in driveway."  

Same goes for "small leak", "tiny holes in walls", or just about any other DESCRIPTIVE words you can think of.  Leave these words out and the disclosures not only become easier to fill out, they could even help you in court.

Let the buyer determine for themselves the severity of the disclosure and you will avoid the biggest pitfall leading to litigation. 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX  NOC
Fullerton, CA
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

 

14 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 24 2008 01:54AM

A Good Reputation Takes a Long Time to Build - A Bad One in Minutes

For some reason our industry is filled with mudslinging.  We are in constant competition be it for listings, buyers, marketing, and even reputation.

reputation

When I first got into the business I asked about the reputation of the top agents in my city.  It was amazing at the legacy these people were leaving.  1 of them used to own the city, and then let herself get a bad reputation and now, while she still does good business, is despised by a lot of the community.  

Another couple woman have been consistently ethical and no one has a bad word to say.  Now there will always be people who do not like you for whatever reason.... Be it you delivered a flier to their door and they feel it is a nuisance, or you are too high energy.   These, in my opinion, are not a bad reputation just a small conflict.

I do everything very ethically and loyally and have built a reputation as a straight shooter.  I have seen others destroy their rep when they stopped looking out for the client and started looking out for themselves.

Just a reminder that it takes a while to build a good reputation - but you can destroy it in a moment.

8 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 23 2008 11:44PM

Feedback Etiquite - You would think it would be simple

I have a very painless feedback system in place through HomeFeedback.com. There are 7 questions to answer with 6 of them being multiple choice and 1 asking what they showing agent thinks the price should be.

I used to be a rocket scientist, but not any more, and so I know this is simple stuff.Homefeedback

Why is it over 50% of showing agents refuse to fill it out?  I thought we are peers.  Sure we compete but we are all in the same market, and the faster we can get inventory off the market the sooner it will recover.

I know a phone call is a more sure-fire way to get feedback, but when you have over 10 listings and multiple showing a day there is simply no time.  And with this feedback system the seller gets to see the agent's response directly, without polishing by you.

I always give honest feedback when asked.  I know I am not the only one, but it sure seems like I am a minority.

Is is my market location? The snootiness of competing agents?  Do they not want you to sell your listing unless they are representing the buyer?

Maybe someone can shed some light. 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton, CA
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

10 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 22 2008 11:53PM

Commication Mitigates Problems

I am a big proponent of communication and come from a business background working as a consultant with the military.  When you are set off on a task - not only do you get started on the task at hand but in some media of communication relay what you believe to be your task to the one who tasked you.

Most problems escalate due to a lack of communication.  Period.

Sure, honesty and integrity are a given, but not everyone is a good communicator.  communication

Let's say you took a listing and verbally gave your seller some improvement tips to accomplish before making the listing active.  You also promised some action items as well.  I find the best way to make sure you both are on the same page is to reiterate the action items in an email for both you and the seller.

It not only reinforces your conversation but serves as a reminder.  If there was any lack of understanding, they can refute the action items.  It also negates the problem if the matter should escalate.  Your seller had the chance to tell you they walked away with a different idea of the conversation.  If they do not, it is de-facto acceptance.

This is also something to do with other agents, brokers and vendors.  If it ever came to litigation and you have an email trail of action items, and they were never refuted, it is an easy case.

 

Thankfully I have never had a problem and I attribute that to very constant communication.  I follow up conversations with email, and always document calls to sellers.

It might seem cumbersome at first, but after a little while it will become routine.

Not only will it protect you, but save wasted time and show a level of professionalism most people have not encountered. 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton, CA
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

4 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 22 2008 11:40PM

Troy High School Attendance Area Active Listings - One of the Best High Schools in the Nation

Troy High is without a doubt one of the best High Schools in the nation.  You can view the school profile and demographics here.  Troy High Information.

Troy High

Living in the attendance area is a gauranteed way for your student to attend this prestigious school so I have compiled all the active listings in the boundary area.  

Here is a link to my search portal to view the listings on a map and for full information.

If you see anything of interest please do not hesitate to contact me as I am a Lower Raymond Hills and Troy High specialist.

 

 


# Mlsnum Status Price Beds Baths Type SqFt Gar Address
1 S494918 Active $199,000 1 1 CONDO 673  0 400 N Acacia Ave B37 FUL CA 92831
2 P594658 Active $210,000 1 1 CONDO 673  0 400 N Acacia Ave D37 FUL CA 92831
3 P589383 Active $233,000 1 1 CONDO 673  0 400 N Acacia Ave B17 FUL CA 92831
4 P589396 Active $249,900 1 1 CONDO 774  0 2010 Associated Rd 1 FUL CA 92831
5 P606389 Active $255,900 1 1 CONDO 673  0 400 N Acacia Ave D21 FUL CA 92831
6 P612335 Active $269,000 1 1 CONDO 741  2 1312 Victoria Dr A FUL CA 92831
7 R709990 Active $279,000 1 1 CONDO 673  1 400 N Acacia Ave B-26 FUL CA 92831
8 P593139 Active $279,900 2 2 CONDO 1,200  0 305 N Acacia Ave A FUL CA 92831
9 P605093 Active $279,900 2 1 CONDO 853  2 2646 Andover Ave D FUL CA 92831
10 P592679 Active $319,900 2 1.5 CONDO 1,200  2 305 N Acacia Ave B FUL CA 92831
11 S512378 Active $324,900 2 2 CONDO 965  0 2001 Oxford 1 ful CA 92831
12 S511994 Active $325,000 2 2 CONDO 932  0 1752 E Commonwealth Ave 102 FUL CA 92831
13 P557845 Active $339,500 2 2 CONDO 932  0 1744 E Commonwealth Ave 101 FUL CA 92831
14 P607679 Active $398,000 2 1.5 SFR 1,230  1 313 acacia c ful CA 92831
15 P613243 Active $416,000 3 2.5 SFR 1,284  2 2309 E Commonwealth Ave FUL CA 92831
16 P615753 Active $445,000 3 2 SFR 1,283  2 236 S Derek Dr FUL CA 92831
17 P614037 Active $449,900 3 2.5 CONDO 1,904  2 1807 Vista Del Oro Ful CA 92831
18 P607334 Active $450,000 3 1.5 SFR 1,123  2 1423 E Sudene Ave FUL CA 92831
19 S515228 Active $459,900 3 2 SFR 1,280  2 2620 E Balfour Ave FUL CA 92831
20 P602545 Active $469,000 3 1.5 SFR 1,100  2 218 S Montague Ave FUL CA 92831
21 M106263 Active $475,000 3 1.5 SFR 1,066  2 228 S Montague Ave FUL CA 92831
22 U7004680 Active $499,000 2 2.5 CONDO 1,369  2 2220 E Chapman Ave 15 FUL CA 92831
23 P618425 Active $500,000 3 1.5 SFR 1,113  2 2200 E Central Ave FUL CA 92831
24 P598044 Active $510,000 3 2 SFR 1,189  2 2613 E Wallace Ave FUL CA 92831
25 P607341 Active $515,000 3 2 SFR 1,202  2 537 N Harrington Dr FUL CA 92831
26 P597888 Active $519,000 3 1.5 SFR 1,347  2 1243 E Union Ave FUL CA 92831
27 P609401 Active $524,999 2 2.5 CONDO 1,618  2 2212 Vista Del Sol FUL CA 92831
28 M107886 Active $525,000 3 2 SFR 1,454  1 2706 AMHERST Ave FUL CA 92831
29 S503713 Active $529,880 3 2.5 CONDO 1,966  2 1820 VISTA DEL ORO FUL CA 92831
30 P610356 Active $529,900 3 2.5 SFR 2,002  2 2445 N North Creek Ln FUL CA 92831
31 P604309 Active $535,000 3 2.5 CONDO 1,970  2 1904 Vista Del Oro FUL CA 92831
32 P603802 Active $539,900 4 2 SFR 1,253  2 225 Costa Ct FUL CA 92831
33 P581840 Active $540,000 3 2 SFR 1,477  2 1631 Victoria Dr FUL CA 92831
34 P599180 Active $544,000 3 2 CONDO 1,979  2 2243 Vista Del Sol FUL CA 92831
35 R711831 Active $549,000 3 2.5 SFR 1,112  2 1410 E Commonwealth Ave FUL CA 92831
36 P600219 Active $549,500 3 2 SFR 1,303  2 1415 Revere Ave FUL CA 92831
37 P613493 Active $549,990 3 2 SFR 1,707  2 2424 E Commonwealth Ave FUL CA 92831
38 P602111 Active $559,000 3 2 SFR 1,189  2 2552 E Santa Clara Ave FUL CA 92831
39 P595547 Active $575,000 4 2 SFR 1,650  2 2518 E Santa Clara Ave FUL CA 92831
40 P615792 Active $575,000 4 2 SFR 1,482  2 2713 Amherst Ave FUL CA 92831
41 P618670 Active $575,000 3 2 SFR 1,680  2 1012 N Riedel Ave FUL CA 92831
42 P617555 Active $579,900 4 2 SFR 1,621  2 100 S Harrington Dr FUL CA 92831
43 P617197 Active $585,000 4 1.75 SFR 1,417  2 813 Meartin Ln FUL CA 92831
44 P605083 Active $589,000 3 2 SFR 1,400  2 1630 E Union Ave FUL CA 92831
45 P616561 Active $599,000 3 2.5 SFR 1,581  2 1301 E Sudene Ave FUL CA 92831
46 P602278 Active $639,000 3 2 SFR 1,675  2 2131 Victoria Dr FUL CA 92831
47 P581818 Active $649,000 4 3 SFR 2,300  2 325 N Harrington Dr FUL CA 92831
48 P612814 Active $650,000 5 3.5 SFR 1,695  2 2335 Revere Ave FUL CA 92831
49 S512971 Active $659,000 3 2 SFR 1,602  2 1118 N Lindendale Ave FUL CA 92831
50 P598547 Active $674,900 3 2 SFR 1,527  2 1527 E Harmony Ln FUL CA 92831
51 Y707946 Active $690,000 3 2.5 SFR 2,101  2 2119 Mendocino St FUL CA 92831
52 P611481 Active $739,000 3 3 SFR 2,075  2 1972 Annandale Way FUL CA 92831
53 P618013 Active $768,000 4 3.5 SFR 2,100  2 301 E Lillie Ave FUL CA 92831
54 P594144 Active $770,000 3 2.5 SFR 2,101  2 2111 Mendocino St FUL CA 92831
55 P616151 Active $775,000 4 2 SFR 2,303  2 2214 Hillview Cir FUL CA 92831
56 P575801 Active $799,000 4 2 SFR 1,961  2 1501 N Raymond Ave FUL CA 92831
57 P603173 Active $828,000 4 2.5 SFR 2,306  2 2105 Hilltop Ct FUL CA 92831
58 P610114 Active $849,900 3 2.5 SFR 2,295  2 2054 Palmetto Ter FUL CA 92831
59 P609668 Active $875,000 4 2.5 SFR 2,695  3 2230 Mountain Ridge Dr FUL CA 92831
60 P600740 Active $889,900 3 2.75 CONDO 2,300  2 1906 Annandale Way FUL CA 92831
61 P588422 Active $1,050,000 4 3.5 SFR 3,578  3 1511 N Raymond Ave FUL CA 92831
62 Y706729 Active $1,128,000 4 4 SFR 3,316  3 2405 Agnes Cir FUL CA 92835
63 P589048 Active $1,375,000 3 2.5 SFR 2,500  2 1409 Vista Del Mar Dr FUL CA 92831
64 P603765 Active $2,500,000 4 4.5 SFR 7,370  3 1708 Ladera Vista Dr FUL CA 92831
65 P617149 Active $2,899,900 3 5 SFR 6,370  4 2041 W Pioneer Ave FUL CA 92831
66 M107095 Active $3,489,000 7 8 SFR 7,000  3 1500 N Raymond Ave FUL CA 92831

 

 

1 comment • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 22 2008 05:40PM

New IDX Search for my New Website - Check it Out

I am implementing a new website and just finished the IDX search integration.

It is completely map based and in my opinion pretty slick.

You can check it out at http://idx.diversesolutions.com/Link/2506

 

idx

 

I have been giving the link to clients and they love the mapping features and ease of use.  I would love to hear some feedback.

Thanks in advance.

9 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 22 2008 04:30PM

Honesty Goes a Long Way

I am not sure why listing agents have a hard time with pricing a home correctly.  A home has an inherent value in any given market.  The listing agent's job is to market the home at to bring the most number of qualified buyers to see it, thereby increasing demand and hopefully the sales price.

I find too many agents do not want to offend their seller and the result being a lack of fiduciary responsibility.  

We have a duty to our sellers to give accurate information which is in their best interest.  pricing

Seller's hired you to sell their home, not to be a suck up.

Tell them the nitty gritty - even if it makes them cry.  If they cannot afford it, give them a solution.  If they do not want to listen, tell them again.  If they still don't listen, have someone else tell them.  If they still don't listen, show them what you mean by taking them to better homes priced less.

This is not about your commission check - but about being honest and loyal.  Telling the client the truth even if it means they get upset. 

 

I guarantee they will respect you for it and in the end - Thank you. 

9 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 21 2008 11:35PM

Technolgy Advancements - iPhone - Trulia - RealtyTrac - Zillow

There has recently been a few improvements in technology which will help the consumer whether on the road or at home on the computer.

 

iphone realtor.com

 

Realtor.com - the #1 website for Real Estate in the United States is now optimized for the iPhone.

The new URL is iphone.realtor.com

The new interface is compatable with the Apple iPhone, Apple iPod Touch, or safari web browser.  

 

 

 

 

 

trulia realty trac

 Trulia.com and RealtyTrac have paired up to post more than 400,000 foreclosure properties on the Trulia website.  Visitors will be able to search by state, city and neighborhood, and obtain basic info for free.  As with the RealtyTrac website the complete information is available but for a fee.

 

 

zillow

 
Zillow.com has teamed up with 11 newspaper groups.  Local Real Estate advertisers who place print and online listings with these newspapers will now be able to post their listings and open house ads on Zillow.com.  The total deal encompasses 282 newspapers.









Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton, CA  92835
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

8 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 19 2008 10:18PM

Cal State Fullerton Art Show - Themes of Location and Memory

A New Cosmopolitanism

Fatimah Tuggar

New Art Show Focuses on Themes of Location and Memory

Works of 12 Contemporary Artists on Exhibit Through March 7

January 14, 2008

The works of 12 contemporary artists who use themes of location and memory in their work will be shown in “A New Cosmopolitanism (Preeminence of Place in Contemporary Art),” a new Main Art Gallery exhibit opening Feb. 5 and continuing through March 7.

 

A New Cosmopolitanism
Steven B. Smith

 

Featured artists are Michael Benedict Barnoya, Binh Danh, Alejandro Díaz, Enrique Chagoya, Wosene Worke Kosrof, Sandeep Mukherjee, Betye Saar, Steven B. Smith, Mark Swope, Fatimah Tuggar, Richard Turner and Saira Wasim. Curators for the exhibit are Rachel E. Chaney and Michel Oren.

A reception for the exhibition is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and noon to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

A New Cosmopolitanism
0 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 16 2008 10:51PM

National Register of Historic Places Buildings in Fullerton - Hillcrest Park

Hillcrest Park



Hillcrest Park


Located at 1200 N. Harbor Blvd.
Map

Location: 1200 N. Harbor Blvd.
1920: improved in 1930s

The Hillcrest Park area has been an important resource in Fullerton, ever since the 35-acre parcel was purchased by the city for $67,300 in 1920. Originally bare of trees, the land was used as an overnight auto park camping site during the 1920s. The park evolved through the 1930s into its present form. The first city water reservoir is still located within the parkland, and the original trails were created with horse and plow. The hundreds of pine and eucalyptus trees planted in the mid-1920s transformed the site dramatically, but the W.P.A. fountain and the stone work in various areas of the park created a truly unique environment.

Included within the park are three structures. The recreation building, designed with a Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, is the former American Legion Post #142, constructed in 1932; the Red Cross building is the former Children’s Library, moved from its location on North Pomona Avenue; and the log cabin is the Isaac Walton league clubhouse, which was originally built in 1932, but reconstructed in 1996.

A master plan for Hillcrest Park was adopted in 1996, which will guide its redevelopment over the next 20 years. The master plan requires the restoration, retention and preservation of historic features and buildings, in particular the stone work that was completed in the 1930s under the auspices of the W.P.A.

Hillcrest Fountain

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton, CA  92835
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

0 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 16 2008 10:37PM

Single Level Condo w/ Attached 2 Car Garage in Lower Raymond Hills

Single Level Condo with 2 Car Attached Garage in Lower Raymond Hills
Main Photo
Location: Raymond Hills
The Premier Single Level Complex in Lower Raymond Hills with a 2 car Garage. Excellent floor plan features a large living room with fireplace, master suite with double closets, huge vanity, and patio access. Double pane windows and sliders throughout. No steps anywhere in the complex and only 63 units total making this very private and desirable place to live.
Information
Contact Information
Adam Brett
714-496-8116
Pricing
Asking Price: $269,000
Flexibility: Negotiable
Additional Pricing Information: Seller has already found another home.
Property Location
1312 Victoria Dr. #A
Fullerton, CA 92831
View Map
Links
Features
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Parking: 2
Year Built: 1969
Subdivision: Lower Raymond Hills
Lot Size: 950
Garage Size: 2
School District: Troy
Square Footage: 750
Agent Name: Adam Brett
Broker: RE/MX NOC
MLS #: P612335
Attributes
Appliances
Range/Oven
Dishwasher
Sink Disposal
Microwave
Trash Compactor
Interior Amenities
Fireplace
Exterior Amenities
Patio
Swimming Pool
Photo Gallery
0 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 16 2008 10:06PM

Tax Time is Here - 2008 Real Estate Tax Tips - Part 1

On February 16, 2007 Congress recently passed the 2007 Small Business Act.  Thistaxman
new legislation was passed to help ease the burden on small businesses correlating to the increase in minimum wage.  This was accomplished with an assortment of tax relief and revenue raising provisions.

Now is the time to engage in tax planning as you will need to be prepared for Congresses (in)Action with the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and whether they will extend multiple tax breaks which expire in 2007. 

The tax breaks I am speaking of are:

For Individuals:

  • Option to deduct state and local sales and use taxes
  • the above-the-line deductions for qualified tuition expenses ands educator expenses
  • the tax credit for making qualified energy saving improvements to a home
  • the option for individuals who have attained age 70 1/2 to exclude $100,000 a year for otherwise taxable distributions from an IRA that are paid directly to a charitable organization

Here are the tax breaks in the 2007 Small Business Tax Package

  • Extend and Liberalize the work opportunity tax credit
    • The credit is extended for 3.5 years with liberalized rules for hiring disabled veterans and workers in rural renewal counties.
  • Extend and Enhance Section 179 small business expensing
    • The expensing limit is increased to $125,000 and the investment based expensing phaseout is increased to $500,000
  • Extend and Enhance certain GO Zone tax incentives
    • The GO Zone businesses expensing rules are extended through 2008. 
  • Enhance the tip credit for certain small businesses
    • The Federal Minimum wage level for purposes of calculating the tip credit is frozen, thereby allowing restaurants to continue claiming the full tip credit despite the increase in minimum wage
  • Simplify family business tax
    • An unincorporated business that is jointly owned by a married couple in a common law state is permitted to file as a sole proprietorship with both spouses still receiving credit for paying Social Security and Medicare taxes.

 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
Fullerton, CA  92835
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

2 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 16 2008 09:52PM

Good For You!

With all of the news about the poor home buyer who was taken advantage of - foreclosure
the old couple who cannot afford their mortgage due to a subprime loan -
the young couple who lived on their equity....  Enough is enough.

How about some praise for those who made Real Estate a sound investment - just like it should be.  If you are the MAJORITY of people who bought a home with a mortgage you could afford, did not take out a second to buy a Maserati or yacht, and even with the decline in house prices still has equity - GOOD FOR YOU!

applause

You are part of the majority of home owners who will see their Real Estate investment be a rock of comfort regardless of the economy, have an asset with with to draw on for retirement, and have the ability to utilize in case of emergency.

 

So once again - GOOD FOR YOU!

applause

6 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 15 2008 01:55PM

Is Broker Preview a Worthwhile Use Of Time?

As I sit - right now - at a broker preview with not a sole in attendance - Time Tracking
I ask the question: 

Is this a good use of time?

I am of the opinion the answer is - sometimes yes.  

Million dollar home

 

 

Let me explain.  2 weeks ago I had a broker preview at a very nice 1.3 Million Dollar listing in an exclusive part of town.  Over 30 agents came through with some excellent feedback.  In that case it was well worth the time.

 

 Fairhope

 

Today I am at a very nice yet average home for the area priced at $549,000.

Wait a sec - just had 1 person come through and they were in and out in no joke 15 seconds. 


Beyond the seller appeasement aspect of the preview - I find agents don't preview the lower 2/3 of the market.  However, I am still apt to do them as I am a believer you won't catch the fish if you don't put your line in the water. 

I would love to hear how Broker Previews are viewed and the success rate you feel with the time spent.

 

 

Adam Brett
RE/MAX NOC
1441 Brea Blvd.
Fullerton, CA  92835
714-496-8116
800-977-ADAM

3 comments • Adam Brett - Fullerton, California Realtor • January 15 2008 01:13PM