Orange County Blog

Ah, summer. How we love the relaxing days of summer.  It’s the time of the year that children daydream about all school year and parents strive to find ways to keep their children busy.  Although theme parks and movie theatres are exciting and entertaining, they can be a drain on the bank account.  Besides they are not the only way to entertain on those warm, lazy days of summer. 

Most communities offer an alternative – concerts in the park.  San Clemente takes us to the coastal sand for their concerts while Dana Point brings us the bluffs with gorgeous ocean views.  Rancho Santa Margarita calls us to picnic in the park and San Juan Capistrano entertains us just a block from the Mission.  Best of all, this time with family and friends is free.  Bring a blanket or chairs and a willingness to enjoy music which may vary from the 60’s, disco, country, or good ol’ rock and roll.  Besides the fun at summer concerts, most communities also offer great family activities on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day.  How wonderful to enjoy activities right in your own backyard!

For an easy way to review all the cities in your area and what activities they offer, visit http://www.orangecountyresourceguide.com/city-information.html

It’s time to slide into summer and dance the night away.

One of the top ten stressors in a person’s life is moving.  Whether the move is across country or across town, there is so much to do, so much to consider, so much to remember. Coming to the rescue for the harried homeowner is  www.orangecountyresourceguide.com   The Moving/Relocation tab http://www.orangecountyresourceguide.com/moving/relocation-resources/ has much needed resources to make the entire process run more smoothly. 

Take a moment to pursue the following articles:

* Watching Out for Real Estate Scams - Stop and look both ways before being "hit" by these real estate scams.
* Where Do Most Americans Want to Live? - If given the choice of living in any state, most Americans would choose California
* Living in the OC – Museums, shopping, camping, beaches…OC has it all
* Time to Move - Are You Ready? - So you’re serious about moving—obviously an important decision.  What do you need to consider as you are making plans
* Moving Check List - Making a list and checking it twice… there’s so much to do when it’s time to move. From researching the new community, choosing a moving company, turning on utilities, and even keeping kids and pets happy, the tasks can seem overwhelming. Keep this checklist handy to stay on track and ease the stress.
* Move Yourself or Hire a Mover? - Moving can be a physically and emotionally exhausting experience. Is it better to hire a mover or can you go it alone?
* Relocating & Taxes - Tax time can certainly be confusing, to say the least. Relocating, like most major events in life, comes with certain tax ramifications. Your tax professional can give you in depth information, but here are a few tips!
* Preparing Your Child to Move - Moving is hard work, both physically and emotionally. And for children, moving can be particularly difficult. They will have many questions and concerns. So before the packing begins, parents should start preparing their child for the big day.
* Packing Antiques and Art Work -Whether moving across town or across the country, it can be challenging to safeguard such fragile items as antiques and artwork. The key to arriving with all your precious pieces in one piece is to take your time in packaging your possessions and to use the correct materials.
* Registering Your Vehicle Upon Moving to California - Find out what's required to register a nonresident vehicle as well local DMV offices.
* Organizing the Dreaded Garage - It’s time to get organized!  Find out the best way to tackle that crazy clutter that is clogging your garage.
* South Orange County's Traffic Relief Alternative - New homeowners don’t just purchase a new house or condominium; they invest in a lifestyle. In South Orange County, the Toll Roads have been a boon to the community’s quality of life and have provided significant traffic relief for residents and businesses throughout the region.

 

 

 Everyone desires that sacred, special place to relax and unwind outside. A place to retreat outdoors after spending the day in traffic rushing from one place to another, or being stuck in a cramped cubby inside a hermetically sealed office. Whether you have a small space and desire to quietly unwind while reading a book or a larger area to use for entertaining, an outdoor deck or patio is an extension of your home.

Whether you desire a deck, patio or both it is important to plan your project to suit your style. How will you be using the area? Do you entertain, have children? What is the traffic flow like in your yard? Do you have a view? If so, remember to orient the patio to make the most of your view.  Also take into consideration sun, shade and wind. Don’t overlook small spaces in your yard. It is easy to create cozy spots with movable flower pots and patio furniture. Once you can visualize your sacred spot in your mind, it is time to put it down on paper. Having your plans on paper allows you the luxury of adjusting the size or shape of your patio or deck, without costly mistakes. Also, if your project requires you find a contractor, a more detailed plan will help you to secure bids and help your contractor to envision your patio exactly the way you want it.

Decks come in all shapes and sizes. However, there are five primary types of decks. Platform decks are low to the ground; because of this they don’t require any railings or steps. Platform decks can take on any shape or size that you can dream up. Raised decks reside a couple of steps off of the ground. Due to this it is necessary to have a protective railing and steps. Rooftop decks are set atop of a flat roofed portion of a home. Second story decks are a full story above ground. They may have stairs from the yard up or access from a room upstairs. Poolside decks extend around in ground or above ground pools. Wraparound decks are any kind of deck that turns around a corner of a house.

Like decks, patios have evolved with the times from dull concrete slabs to sophisticated entertainment areas. A patio can be attached to home or placed some distance away. There are five major patio categories. The attached patio lengthens a home directly into the landscape. It can provide an eye pleasing transition from the home to the lawn and garden. A freestanding patio is usually used to enhance a specific feature of the landscape such as a beautiful garden or spectacular ocean view. A balcony patio is popular for those whose outdoor space is limited. A poolside patio focuses on entertainment. Finally, a courtyard patio combines separate areas of the home. It is important to understand what you desire for your home and which type of patio will work best for you.

Should you use a contractor? Many homeowners handle a wide range of home improvement projects themselves. However, before you take on a large patio or decking project be sure to look at the following objectively. Look at your skill level and experience versus the scope of the project. Decking and patios will require more than one person, so make sure you have someone to help you. Do you have the proper tools? If not, how much of an investment are you willing to make to get them? Do you have the time to devote to the project? Add everything up; what will your total cost be? Ready to get started?  Type Patios and Decks into the search box on the home page of www.orangecountyresourceguide.com

Your home is supposed be to your castle, your sanctuary, and the one place where you feel safe and secure.Yet for many victims of violence, their home becomes not a place of refuge but one of fear. A comprehensive home alarm system is a great way to keep strangers out and keep you and your family safe.

Burglar alarms have become standard equipment in stores and other businesses, and they’re becoming increasingly common in private homes as well. If you have ever shopped for a home security system, then you are aware that there are a large variety of options available. These alarm systems range from impressive whole house security networks that require installation by professionals to small do-it-yourself kits that are available at a reasonable price and easy to install.

Homes without home-security alarm systems have a significantly higher break in rate. An alarm system is installed to detect and deter intruders. A basic security system will consist of both perimeter and space protection to secure your premise. The first stage secures vulnerable perimeter access points such as windows and doors. The second stage consists of motion detectors, which monitor movement inside the premise. The level of security you choose is determined by the number of protective devises and the sophistication of the system installed.

When shopping for a burglary alarm system it is imperative that you check out the system you are considering as well as the dealer. Some important facts to check are the following;

- Is the company local?
- Do they have a state license?
- Do they offer 24 hour service?
- Will the company work with your insurance company for reduced rates?
- Is there a warranty?
- Is there a service contract?
- Is the system monitored by a central station? Is there a live person or a tape recording on the other end?

A qualified company should perform an on-site inspection and discuss in detail your individual requirements. Each person and home or business is unique and the system you purchase should be tailored to fit your needs and price range. The company should provide you with an evaluation of your property and actions you can take to improve your security over and above the purchase of an alarm system. For example, some suggestions might be installing proper locks, adding additional lighting or clearing shrubbery.

Some less expensive security options include motion sensors and sound detectors, which can be used to turn on lights when triggered. If you live in a reclusive area, motion sensors on outdoor lights are an easy and inexpensive way to deter possible intruders on your property. Another option would be individual window alarms. These alarms are activated by vibration and are another excellent way to deter unwanted visitors.

Whether you choose a professional alarm system or the less expensive option, start by doing your research so you know what will best suit your needs. It's time to start your research. On www.OrangeCountyResourceGuide.com home page, type security in the keywords box.

 

 

 

REALTORS® Do More…..

The “REALTORS® Honoring Veterans” Campaign follows the “REALTORS® Building Homes for Heroes Effort” in which three REALTOR® associations: The Orange County Association of REALTORS®, the Laguna Board of REALTORS® and the Newport Beach Association of REALTORS® joined together to raise $250,000 to build a home for a combat wounded veteran in San Juan Capistrano.  The home will be one of 27 in a brand new Habitat for Humanity of Orange County neighborhood.

The “REALTORS® Building Homes for Heroes” campaign was a grassroots effort that relied on the generous contributions of REALTORS® and affiliates.  The home for a combat wounded veteran and their family shows the REALTOR® commitment to veterans and all that they do for our country. 

The REALTORS® Honoring Veterans Campaign is a wonderful continuation of the Orange County Association of REALTORS® commitment to honoring our servicemen and servicewomen.   

For more information on OCAR visit: www.orangecountyresourceguide.com/directory/listing.php?id=342  

It’s time to put down the brightly colored grocery store ads and head to your local farmers’ market for a delightful day of shopping in the refreshing outdoors.  There you will find a plethora of fresh picked, vine and tree-ripened fruits and vegetables, grown by local farmers. Most is harvested within a day of its arrival at the market, a claim that grocery stores are unable to make.  And an increasing amount of the produce is organically grown which means that the farmers don’t use fertilizers or pesticides, a benefit for the health conscious consumer.   As you stroll through the aisles, most vendors will offer you sample of their wares. Nothing beats actually tasting that juicy nectarine or trying a pluot for the first time.  You may notice that while the taste is unparalleled, the produce may not look picture perfect. Since the produce is vine and tree-ripened, it is available only from the grower and cannot be shipped to the wholesale stores. It is coming directly from the fields.  The taste is the true test and you won’t be disappointed. 

Happily, the shopping doesn’t stop with the fabulous produce.  Most farmers’ markets also offer a variety of other items to make your meal a complete experience.  Bring home some vivid colored fresh flowers to brighten up your dinner table.  Start out with an appetizer of hummus and pita bread.  Sample from the many flavors such as tomato basil, avocado cilantro, or roasted pepper.  Or perhaps a selection of nuts including: pistachio, peanut, and cashews would whet your appetite.   Don’t have a main course yet?  Take a look at the fresh pasta available at many of the farmers’ markets.  No, you’re still not done with the shopping yet.  Dessert still needs to be selected.  A selection of pastries including cakes, cookies, and specialty items are often available.

As you plan your trip to the farmers’ market, keep in mind that they are held outdoors.  You will have a more comfortable and fruitful visit if you are dressed for the weather and have chosen your comfortable walking shoes.  Take a stroll through the entire market before settling down to make your purchases.  Different farmers have different prices so comparison shopping is a must.  But if you are purchasing produce, please don’t try to bargain for a better price.  The farmers have worked hard to bring you their crops fresh from the fields and do not appreciate bartering. Bringing your own bags and perhaps a small hand held cart is a helpful hint to avoid taking trips back and forth to the car.  Small bills are helpful as well as it is not always possible to make change for larger bills.   Overall, keep in mind that a trip to the farmers’ market is an opportunity to take a break from the everyday hustle and bustle, save money, support our local economy, and learn about your community in your own backyard.   For a listing of farmers’ markets and the days of the week that they will be in your area, click the Farmers Markets Link under Quick Links.

When homeowners consider remodeling, their budget becomes a major concern.  But there is an option available which is becoming increasingly popular. It is called Redesign and it is both affordable and accomplished with a minimal amount of time.  A credentialed interior redesigner takes existing furnishings, art collections, mirrors, decorative objects, etc and improves the room with traffic flow, color, and placement.  Room arrangements can typically be completed in a day.  Redesign works with the homeowner's own style while adding the needed pizzazz to one room or an entire home.

Here are some tips from Interior Redesigner and Stager Ellen M. Hassler

♦ Pull furniture away from walls and into the room.

♦ Mix several textures together for visual interest such as a nubby wool throw on a leather chair.

♦ Hang a mirror where it will reflect a beautiful view.

♦ Hang art for a reason such as to extend a piece of furniture.

♦ Group collections together for visual impact.

♦ Mantlescapes can be dramatic with a few large scale items and try layering or leaning artwork.

♦ Rooms come alive with something fresh such as flowers or bowl of green apples or even an aquarium.

♦ A coffee table is the most important table in the room for adding visual interest.

♦ You can never have too many lamps in a room. Consider adding a small lamp to a bookcase.

♦ Add punches of color with colorful accessories, art, and floral arrangements.

A professional redesigner knows how to provide functional space planning, architectural enhancement, the highlighting of proper focal points, visual balance and harmonious light placement.  By using what the homeowner already owns and loves, an environment is created that says "home".  Professional interior designers can be found on by using the words Interior Decorators in the search box.  To learn more about Ellen M. Hasler, a  professional interior designer specializing in redesign, visit:http://www.orangecountyresourceguide.com/directory/listing.php?id=170038

 

 

 

Living in Southern California we recognize that water is one of our most precious resources. We know from experience that California is perpetually in a drought.   Our water supply is dangerously low due to dry conditions, which then lead to prolonged fire danger seasons.  Both the Colorado River and Northern California, our primary water sources, have decreased over the past few years.   According to The Municipal Water District of Orange County, residential water consumption is the largest contributor to California’s urban water use.  In fact urban water use has been measured at more than 2.2 trillion gallons of water per year.  To put this number in perspective, that is half the annual flow of the Colorado River. Or look at the numbers in another way. On average, single family homes use 171 gallons of water per person, per day.  Approximately one third of that is used indoors for laundry, showers, toilets, sinks, washing dishes, etc.  The other two-thirds goes toward watering our yards.  It is critical that steps are taken to preserve this life giving fluid.   The Municipal Water District of Orange County wants to help. They are operating a program called Save Water, Get Cash!  When residents replace old, high water-using devices with new, water-efficient models, they will receive rebates.

Here is an example of how much water can be saved with available upgrades:

     Installing water-efficient rotating nozzles saves 3.6 gallons per nozzle, per day.
     Upgrading to a “smart” irrigation time saves 40 gallons per day
     Installing high efficiency toilets saves 38 gallons per toilet, per day
     Upgrading to a high efficiency clothes washer saves 24 gallons per day.
     Replacing your lawn with synthetic turf saves 12.5 gallons per 100 ft, per day

So what else can you do to save water?
Inside:
     Turn off the water when you brush your teeth – Save  3 gallons per day
     Shorten your showers by one or two minutes – Save 5 gallons per day
     Fix leaky faucets – Save 20 gallons per day
     Wash only full loads of laundry – Save 15-50 gallons per day
Outside:
     Water your yard only before 8 a.m. – Save 25 gallons per day
     Install a smart sprinkler controller – Save 40 gallons per day
     Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks – Save 150 gallons each time.
     Check your sprinkler system for leaks, over-spray and broken heads – Save 500 gallons a month
     Mulch your plants/gardens to reduce evaporation – Save hundreds of gallons a year.
     Plant fire resistant, drought tolerant plants

"To waste, to destroy our natural resources, to skin and exhaust the land instead of using it so as to increase its usefulness, will result in undermining in the days of our children the very prosperity which we ought by right to hand down to them amplified and developed."
--Theodore Roosevelt, Seventh Annual Message, December 3, 1907

Caring for our environment is everyone’s responsibility.  Each day you can make simple decisions to make a difference in a big way.  Visit www.mwdoc.com/savewater or call (888) 376-3314 for more information on available rebates on water-efficient products. Of course, saving water isn’t the only way to care for our community.  Click on the Environmental text link in the QUICK LINKS section for information on more ways you can be environmentally conscious.

When the big one hits, will you be ready?  Over 5 million people participated in The Great Southern California Shakeout (www.ShakeOut.org) on November 13, 2008, a drill to test our readiness to deal with the aftermath of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake.  A recent forecast found that sometime in the next three decades there is a 67 percent chance that the Greater Los Angeles area will experience a tremor of at least 6.7 – the same magnitude as the 1994 Northridge quake that killed 57 people.  A U.S. Geological Survey projection says a magnitude 7.8 quake along the San Andreas fault could cause 300 deaths in Orange County and bring down an unspecified 240,000-square-foot mixed-use building.  These sobering figures should move us to action.

What can you do to be prepared for a earthquake whether big or small?  Start by making a home earthquake plan.  Find a safe place in your home where nothing can fall on you away from windows or glass.  Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On at least twice a year by dropping under a heavy piece of furniture like a table or desk, holding on and protecting your eyes by pressing your face against your arm.  If no furniture is available, sit with your back against an interior wall away from bookcases, etc.  Identify and eliminate hazards in your home by bolting bookcases, china cabinets, and other pieces of tall furniture to wall studs.  Put sturdy latches on cupboards.  Lastly, secure televisions, books, and computers and other falling hazards.  Prepare a disaster supplies kit for both your home and car.  Some of the items to include would be canned food and a can opener, at least 3 gallons of water per person, protective clothing, bedding, battery powered radios and flashlights, extra batteries, written directions for turning off gas, electricity, and water.  A first aid kid and any necessary medications should be included in the kit as well.   Once this plan is in place, be sure that all family members, babysitters, and caregivers are aware of it.

Just as you can be prepared before an earthquake, there are tasks you can do once the shaking starts.  If you are in bed, stay there and protect your head with your pillow.  If elsewhere in your home, Drop, Cover, and Hold On, being sure to protect your head and face.  If outdoors, try to get to a clear area away from tall buildings, trees, and electrical lines and then drop to the ground.  If you are in your car, slow down and if possible, drive to a clear area away from buildings, etc. Stay in your car until the shaking stops. Through it all, try to stay calm.

Once the shaking stops, take an assessment of any injuries you may have sustained and then assess others for injuries.  Take a walk through your home, look for and extinguish any small fires. During your home inspection if you deem it unsafe, get out immediately. If you smell gas, turn it off.  But remember, only a professional can turn it back on!  Listen to the radio for information and use your telephone only to report emergencies.  Don’t be caught off guard by aftershocks as they are sure to occur.  Once again, Stop, Drop, and Hold On.

For a list of Orange County companies to help you "quake-proof" your home and family, go to the Search box on the Home Page of this Orange County Resource Guide and in the keyword box, type "Earthquake."