Thursday, December 22, 2011

Great things to do in Long Beach at Christmas time!

Wednesday nights are reserved for our fitness walks. A few of us have committed to walking every Wednesday and trying to get at least two more walks in on our own during the week. This week I wanted to try and do something a little less strenuous as my niece is nine months pregnant. We want to keep her walking, but we don't want to induce labor! It has been a few years since I have been down to Naples Island at Christmas time, and thought that this would be a great time.


We met at 6pm and parked the car on 2nd st. Walked over to the island and it was beautiful. Every home was decorated with a different motif. They even had a Griswold's home! The gondolas were out gliding down the canals, the electric boats had people waving, and my favorite was the bicycle boats. A dozen of the bike boats were out on the water all decked out in Christmas lights. I defiantly would like to do this for my Birthday ...

Several organizations had the children singing carols, and a band was playing holiday music. Some homes had coffee set up and were giving the donations to charity. It was a great night, free, and about a three mile walk with some stairs. I think if you are in Long Beach you should not miss this!
Check out some of the pictures I took as we strolled along the canals.









Pictures are not that great, taken with my phone. Next year I will be taking my good camera.

English Toffee

It's that time of the year again for cookies and English Toffee. Last week we had the cookie bake off, this week it has been English Toffee. I made two different varieties, we had almonds with the milk chocolate and dark chocolate. It is a very easy recipe.
Two cups of real butter
Two cups of sugar-I like using the bakers sugar as it's a finer sugar and melts better.
a tad of real vanilla (maybe 1/4 teaspoon) too much and your toffee will be too soft
Do not add salt if you do not want to, I add about 1/4 teaspoon of smoked sea salt.
Cook to a rapid boil constantly stirring. The candy thermometer should read 325. Carefully watch the colour of your toffee. You are looking for a light brown. Pour over sliced almonds and your chocolate drops, add sliced almonds and chocolate drops to top. Put it in the refrigerator to cool and use an ice pick to break it. Use parchment paper in your pan and it will come right out.
Have a great Holiday and Happy New Year!

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

The Tale of How a Big Box of Baking Soda Saved Thanksgiving

Back in the early days of my marriage … I bravely volunteered to cook Thanksgiving dinner. Always wanting to try new things, I decided to cook my turkey using one of those special cooking bags.

After hearing everyone’s advice about how to prepare the bird, I turned on the electric oven, waited for it to pre-heat and then put the turkey inside the bag.

When I closed the oven door I was full of the anticipation of a moist turkey … cooked to perfection … as I am sure anyone who is a new cook could be.

Everything was going great, the house was starting to fill with the smells of a wonderful meal when all of a sudden there was a very big bang coming from the oven; I opened the oven door and flames shot up to the ceiling.

One of those pieces of advice was to keep a big box of baking soda handy … so I grabbed the baking soda to throw the powder onto the flames and fire. There was smoke, soot, grease and baking soda all over the oven walls and floor … including my poor cat Stouffer who just happened to be in the kitchen enjoying the good smells, just as the emergency started to unfold. The cat shot off through out the house covering everything in his path with baking soda.

The big box of baking soda saved the kitchen from catching on fire but to this day I will never forget how awful I felt and how sorry I was that my poor Stouffer got the worst of it all. I washed off the cat, washed off the turkey and put it back into the oven.

Two things I learned that Thanksgiving, always have a big box of baking soda handy and to always poke a hole in the plastic bag … just like the instructions say; otherwise it hits the electric elements in the oven and explodes.

Every Thanksgiving I am always thankful for my family and friends but most especially, I am thankful that I have learned to read directions and to have since become a much better cook.

If you have any cooking disasters and close calls you would like to share … feel free to leave a comment … until next time

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYONE!!!

P.S. My guest never knew that special recipe … they polished off every bite!

ALLISON VAN WIG – 562-882-1581

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

5029 Walnut Is A Great Starter Home in The Ridgewood Heights Area of Long Beach!

I am pleased to present a great starter home with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths and over 1600 square feet of living space.

To see all the details visit www.5029Walnut.com

for a sneak peek watch my private home tour …

THIS IS A STANDARD SALE …. NO WAITING AROUND FOR THE BANK! You can CLOSE ESCROW by the end of the year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOME OR ANY OF MY OTHER LISTINGS … VISIT www.SuperBroker.com or call 562-882-1581

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO LIVE IN A HOME THAT WAS FEATURED ON A POPULAR HGTV TV SHOW?

THIS IS YOUR CHANCE … Long Beach Realtor Allison Van Wig proudly presents 3437 Charlemagne … which is a magnificent, South of Conant home offering four bedrooms and three baths with over 2,000 square feet of living space.

It’s beautiful entryway with hardwood floors lead to a remodeled kitchen with lots of counter and cupboard space.

You will be the envy of the neighborhood with this home’s great bar and formal dining area for entertaining. Living room has a bay window and fireplace; family room and one master suite are downstairs, with another master suite upstairs. All bathrooms are nicely appointed.

Resort like backyard and outdoor living space has a pool, spa, and fireplace that is surrounded by a Koi pond, unique outdoor sleeping area. Additional amenities include: Trex decking and a grassy area to lounge by the pool, central air and heating, and newer windows.

This home is so beautiful that it was featured on a popular HGTV broadcast and is a one of a kind opportunity. Take a look at the photo gallery below and then … take the on-line virtual tour to see all this home has to offer.

Charlemagne

CLICK HERE TO SEE A TOUR OF THIS BEAUTIFUL HOME

www.3437Charlemagne.com

To schedule a private showing and for more information call Allison Van Wig directly at 562-882-1581

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Barking mad? Designer doghouses auctioned in Austin

http://bit.ly/o03XzE


Barking mad houses hit Texas this week, as Austin's annualBarkitecture show took place. The event, which raises money for charity,is a showcase for revolutionary modern designs of new homes - for dogs.


Sunday, October 2, 2011

Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread. Its October!

http://bit.ly/oD9Gdq


"This is a great old Maine recipe, moist and spicy. The bread actually tastes even better the day after it is baked. Great for holiday gift giving!"


Saturday, September 24, 2011

Troubled homeowners, beware of 'mass joinder' lawsuit invitations

http://lat.ms/qJ87Ti


What financially strapped homeowner wouldn't want to join other troubled owners in a last-ditch effort to save their homes from foreclosure? But beware of unsolicited mailings inviting your participation in a "mass joinder" lawsuit as a way to do so.


Tuesday, September 20, 2011

I Love Technology But I Ask You … What Is Happening To Us?

Because I have a lot of Realtor friends that follow my Blog and Social Media I wanted to write this article because it is very important to me. I am up right now at 3:00 am in the morning and something is really bothering me.  Grab a cup of coffee because this is a really long blog post … and I REALLY want you to read it and I REALLY want you to let me know what YOU THINK!!!

Despite the fact that Gen X and Gen Y clients are really into technology … I think we are losing our emotional connection to our family, friends, and customers. In my opinion it’s been happening so gradually that many of us do not even realize what is going on.

I am sounding the alarm to my fellow real estate agents as It is now affecting the level of service that I am able to give to MY clients … the level of service that I know my clients should have when they are in the midst of making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

First we started using email which is very valuable because it lets us communicate much easier and cheaper than regular mail. It also gives us a record of what was being said and enables us to make notes that we could refer back to. We can go back and forth with our clients and not have to call them on the phone all the time; which is great, especially if they are at work and can’t talk on the phone.

Then, we started texting … which was convenient because you could send a quick message during a meeting and let the other person know you would call them back. It was also a good way to send someone a phone number or address. But lately I feel that we are losing touch and just maybe we should be more careful.

Have you noticed that real estate agents are faxing over offers and never calling you to follow up? I alone have had this happen several times just this month! Then to make matters even worse, I had one of the Realtor’s clients call me directly to ask if I had gotten their offer? I asked them who their agent was...and then after doing a thorough email search I did not have an offer from that agent.

Believe me, this was not a comfortable position to be in … what do I tell the buyer client that is checking up on their agent?  The agent then called me the next day and exclaimed that he had the wrong email?

Fellow Realtors, do you remember when we used to present offers in person so we could properly present our clients to the other agent and sellers? Sadly, this practice is going away. I know we are all busy, but how about a quick phone call to the other agent saying “I am sending you an offer, this is who I am, and this is why my clients love this home”... have you not heard of rapport building? How about a follow up phone call to see if I got the offer  … that would be good, or … just ask me for a response to your emailed offer.

Now, about using email for the lockbox codes on vacant homes; first of all, I think my fellow Realtors should be using the more secure Supra automated lockboxes that tell who has been in the home! But if you must use a code box … when you ask us to email you to request you send us the code, then please respond. When trying to set up showings for my buyer clients, First I try calling you on the phone on a Friday afternoon, if there is no answer I leave a message. I also email you because that is in the instructions you wrote in the multiple listing system. Saturday comes and goes … I still have no code....finally on Monday morning I get an answer to my email which I sent on Friday so I could show the property last weekend....this doesn’t work for either of us and most importantly … does not serve your seller! If you ask me to do something, then follow up and check your email or your phone messages.

Now, on to the texting subject … the reason you may not call me to tell me about your offer is because you are soooooo busy...so you text me instead where you tell me you are sending an offer over. Just one problem, there are over 10,000 real estate agents in our area and … when you do not have a signature on your text...I do not have a clue who you are...so I have to call you to find out...believe, me you are not scoring points if this is a multiple offer situation.

My thinking is that if you don’t have time NOW to effectively communicate with me to submit your offer, then your follow up during the transaction will be poor. Also, I spend about 40% of my time in the car and aside from the fact that is it against the law, I do not check text messages in the car. You can find out much faster if you just call me, I will answer on my Bluetooth or call you back if you left a message.

To finish up how this train of thought all started is simple. I was on the phone with a friend the other day and she was telling me how few friends she feels that she has. I am one of the few that calls her … meaning we actually have a conversation once a week for a few minutes regardless of how busy we both are, me with my business and she with her kids. Now she knows she has other friends because they will email her jokes or email her that they should get together, then they start to skip that and just text her. She may call them but they don’t answer the phone. They text her back that they can’t talk right then but will call her later, and they forget to call later. Then they text her the next day telling her to have a great day....

Potential clients email us to find out about listings and we email them back. We should also be calling them and telling them a little bit more about why that property is special. Maybe we should make an effort to make an emotional connection with them.

Once you have a client, a seller or a buyer, don’t take them for granted. Don’t just email them and text them … actually pick up the phone and talk to them. It is important that they know that you really do care and that they hear that emotion in your voice.

I guess what I am really trying to say is let me know YOU care. If you are a Realtor then call me before you send over an offer. If you don’t care enough to know if I got it, why should I care? I think you should call your clients once a week and have a actual conversation with them. They may know what is going on with their transaction, but do they know you care?

Family and friends, if I try calling you and you do not answer and you never call back, but you text all the time because you are busy … what kind of message do you think that delivers? Short texts of “I will call you later, miss you, etc.” Get old fast. Soon I simply give up. Sometimes, I call to find out what’s going on with your life and did you get that item you wanted? Was the game good? By the time I get ahold of you I have forgotten some of the important things I wanted to tell you about.

Eventually, people will tire and will reach out to people that WILL talk to them. People want that emotional connection and will be drawn to the people that give it to them. I love technology and innovative ideas and … I love social media and the fact that I have that connection with people, but I don’t want to lose my emotional connection that I forge with people by having a conversation with them.

I don’t want to sell someone’s house and not know how they feel. I want them to be happy. I want to hear my niece’s excitement about a new love in her life; I want to hear people living! I want you to call me because you want that offer to go through.

Don’t let your texting and emailing take your emotional side away. These are great tools. but people want you to care. When I was growing up Hallmark had an ad campaign slogan … When You care To Send The Very Best … well my advice is when you care about the person you are communicating with … say it with the spoken word … Until Next time … Allison Van Wig©

AllisonVanWigLogo2008

www.SuperBroker.com

562-882-1581

Monday, September 19, 2011

Apple Facts, Festivals and Picking Tips

http://bit.ly/q5tEKa


Apples are one of the easiest fruit to pick and use. They're big and easy to pick, they can be eaten fresh, cooked, canned, frozen and made into many tasty and healthy dishes. This is a fun site!


Friday, September 16, 2011

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Love your small House

http://bit.ly/fKnEmc


Not my extreme small house posting.....



Just your average home that is under 2000 square feet. Nice to know that they are always in style!


Extreme Homes: This is Yurt Life

http://bit.ly/nSbJPT


Once the au courant domicile of the sophisticated 1970s counter-culturalist, the humble yurt is entering a new era of popularity, say some makers. One reason: low environmental impact.

 


Monday, September 12, 2011

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Getting Your Home Sold

http://bit.ly/qVLogX


While certain tips like properly staging your space will help get your home sold no matter what the economic climate, picking a talented real estate agent is one of the most crucial assets in getting your home sold fast and for the right price.


Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Friday, September 2, 2011

Renting or Buying...watch out

http://on-msn.com/nOinje


Regular home maintenance is important. Watch for these items, most are easy to repair.



www.SuperBroker.com


Labor Day Marks The End of Summer and a New Program Called Mulch on Demand Compliments of The City of Long Beach

Labor day marks the end of summer … at least that is what I am told.

In my heart,  summer should go on for a few more weeks as it is always nice that it stays light in the evening as I love it when I can SOMETIMES get in a bike ride at the end of a hard day.

Labor Day weekend is a great time to catch up on some of those home projects and I wanted to let you know about a great program the City of Long Beach has where they offer FREE MULCH.

pic of mulch on demand article

Starting today, mulch will be available from 2:30-4:00 p.m. EVERY FRIDAY DURING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER at the city’s main storage site at 2702 California Ave.

Residents can also order mulch for delivery but there is a 6 week waiting list. Order by calling 562-570-6281.

SPEAKING OF MULCH which creates BEAUTIFUL GARDENS, my new listing in Rossmoor has a fabulous garden. Look at my tour from my YouTube channel.

3 Bedrooms 2 Baths with over 1700 Square Feet of Living Space

For More Information visit www.SuperBroker.com or call 562-882-1581

Technorati Tags:

August home sale statistics.

http://bit.ly/pfVm2Q


With interest rates so low, some payments are equel to rent. Buyers are seeing the opportunities in Long Beach and Lakewood.



www.GreatLakewoodHomes.com


Affordable Homes!!

http://bit.ly/pjoNvm


I have always like the little airstream trailors. These are also very cute!



www.SuperBroker.com

New Listing in Lakewood

http://bit.ly/oOc2SP


If you are looking for a home in Lakewood Ca, this may be the one for you! Find all the information at



www.SuperBroker.com



or other great Lakewood homes at



www.GreatLakewoodHomes.com



562-882-1581



We also have Miss Priss Cupcake coupons available that we can email you or drop off. Just send me an email and let me know that you would like a coupon.



RESuperBroker@gmail.com

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Top Reasons to Own a Home

http://bit.ly/o2zJRO


There's good reason that over half of all Americans are homeowners. Social and financial benefits are key factors when it comes to deciding to buy. Homeownership allows people to grow wealth slowly over time, to hold assets that build equity, and to bring stability into chaotic lives. Buying is equel to rent payments in some areas of Lakewood and Long Beach. If you have at least 3.5% down you may be able to buy now. Give me a call at 562-882-1581


Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Corrugated Steel Shipping Containers Do Double Duty As Housing

http://bit.ly/oyPmPH


Creative architects have latched on to the idea of recycling steel shipping containers to save on construction costs. While it's certainly cheaper, this isn't just some exercise in odd-looking green building, but an honest attempt to create stylish homes out of the ubiquitous steel boxes. We are using these in Long Beach.



www.SuperBroker.com


Sunday, August 28, 2011

NEW LISTING IN WRIGLEY AREA OF LB

Great tour of a new listing in the Wrigley area. Beautiful custom home. Almost a quarter acre lot. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and 1873 square feet. Take a look on my YouTube channel for other home tours as well!

CUSTOM HOME IN WRIGLEY AREA OF LONG BEACH CALIFORNIA

If you have any questions give me a call at 562-882-1581.
www.superbroker.com/

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Would You Go On a Job Interview Without Knowing What The Company Does?

Yesterday I was teaching a class of real estate agents and a very interesting question came up. The agent wanted to know how to give pricing information to his seller on the value of a home.

The seller thought that the home was worth $480,000, the agent stated that the home was worth $460,000. They had an offer for $470,000 that the seller would not counter.

I asked the agent why the seller thought the home was worth more. The agent stated that he saw the price on Zillow.

I then asked the agent if he himself had looked at Zillow? The agent stated "why would I look at Zillow when I have the recent sales from the multiple listing system". I replied “so that you might have a better understanding about the seller’s pricing thoughts”.

As a listing agent, my thinking always is that I want to see what the recent sales are that Zillow is using; usually they have a few sales on the site that they are comparing the  home to. The agent said “well I don't need that information, I have better information from the multiple listing system”.

This agent totally missed the point. In today's world it seems that no one wants to take that extra step to try and help or to understand where the customer is coming from. It is as If you went on a job interview and had the best engineering skills but no knowledge of what the company did; do you think you would get the job?

What the agent should have done was look at Zillow and any other consumer related real estate site before even going on the appointment or listing the property.

He should have had a conversation with the seller before an offer was ever received. If the agent and the client both have the same information then it will be a much smoother transaction. A good agent should always explain why the comparable sales on certain websites may or may not be a good match for their property.

Our job is to price a home to sell and get the most amount of money for the seller. My goal is that I always want my sellers to understand why that price is a good fit.

When I go on the job interview … AKA a listing appointment, I should know what that seller’s expectations are before hand. I then go with appropriate materials so we can discuss my job. My seller and I then have a much better chance of selling that home at its highest price.

Knowing my property inventory, past sales activity plus … understanding what the seller expects, are all key components to providing the best service possible.

If you would like more information about this process … please give me a call or visit my website.

562-882-1581 or www.SuperBroker.com

VanWig&AssociatesLogo

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

When Is The Time To Buy?

     A few days ago I was sitting with a client writing an offer for a home in Lakewood. It was a three bedroom one bath on a nice cul-de-sac. The home was priced at $350,000. In the current rental market the home would rent for $2100. His payment with 10% down is $1950, that includes property taxes and insurance.
     
I loved the market ten years ago because I was working with these kind of numbers. The clients would sit down and discuss payment options with me and we would all wonder why more people were not buying homes. Why would you rent when you can buy for the same price? Maybe they didn't know? 
    
This equation does not even include the fact that as a homeowner you get a tax deduction. Homeowners get to deduct the mortgage interest and property taxes on the home. Call your tax accountant for all the information. That could make the above payment effectively around $1500.
    
 I also just sold a one bedroom condo in downtown Long Beach for $97,000 and the seller paid $3000 of the buyers costs. That makes a payment of  $950 with taxes and association dues. Find a one bedroom condo with parking three blocks from the beach with that kind of rent! 
     
Benefits of buying right now...low interest rate, payment that is very close to rent, tax deduction, and you are setting up a forced savings account for yourself. You are building equity in your own home as you pay down your loan.
    
Some people worry about job stability and being able to afford a house payment. You have to live somewhere, either pay rent or pay your own loan. If you did lose your job you can move in with friends and rent your home....its a great market when most of the homes that are available, will rent for the payment on them!
    
I have been in business for 23 years. I have seen the highs and the lows. I believe that the next few years will be great opportunities for home ownership.

If you are shopping for real estate in the Lakewood and Long Beach areas … visit http://www.greatlakewoodhomes.com/ to start your search. Make sure and check out the Market Insider section.

If you want immediate advice ... visit http://www.superbroker.com/ or call me directly at 562-882-1581





Thursday, August 11, 2011

Allison Van Wig Has Just Updated the Market Report for Long Beach & Lakewood Home Prices

 

ML_PIC_FOR_ADI have just updated my Long Beach and Lakewood market report for our local real estate markets.

 

Here is a QR code you can scan with your smartphone or you can visit www.LongBeachRealEstatePrices.com  to get all the latest information on solds vs. listed prices.

 

QR code for mkt insider 90802If you need more information, please give me a call at 562-882-1581 or visit my website at www.SuperBroker.com

Allison Van Wig

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

LAKEWOOD MUTUALS NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE–SATURDAY 7/23rd 8:00am to 3:00 pm

Garage Sale ...This Saturday, we are having a NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE with over 40 homes participating.

If you love bargains, then look for the garage sale signs that will be posted all around starting from the corner of Paramount and Del Amo.

Garage_Sale_Boundaries

The map on the right shows the boundaries of the homes that are participating … just follow the signs and join in the fun!

This garage sale has been advertised in the Long Beach Press Telegram so the garage sale regulars will be there …

Speaking of bargains … if you are shopping for real estate in the Lakewood and Long Beach areas … visit www.GreatLakewoodHomes.com to start your search.

For information about my listings … visit www.SuperBroker.com or give me a call … 562-882-1581

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 Follow me on facebook…search for Allison Van Wig

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Short Sale vs. Standard Sale … Which One Is Better?

Short Sales are a breed all to their own … depending upon the existing lender and the experience of the listing agent and short sale negotiator … they have been known to take on a life of their own.
I have been dealing with short sales since the early 90’s and now again during the current housing crisis … whether you are buying or selling … my advice is to make sure you are dealing with someone who can guide you through the process and get you across the closed escrow line. This outcome is a huge win-win for everyone!!
If you are interested in homes where you don’t have to worry about having an extended wait period before you can move forward to closing … I have two such listings that are perfect for a growing family.
2708 Arbor Rd in Lakewood
Click on these pictures and you will go to the each of the property’s exclusive websites where you can see all the details, price, lots & lots of pictures plus a virtual tour.
2708 Arbor Road is a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home in the Lakewood Mutuals area of Lakewood California.
4133 Rose Ave

4133 Rose Ave is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in the Bixby Highland area of Long Beach California

For more information about how to find homes visit my website at http://www.superbroker.com/ or register at http://www.greatlakewoodhomes.com/ or …
feel free to give me a quick call 562-882-1581
VanWig&AssociatesLogo

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Allison Van Wig Completes Annual Relay For Life To Raise Funds for American Cancer Society

Last Saturday, June 25th I was proud to participate in the annual American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Fundraising event.
Teamwork relay for life
The relay was a team-oriented event that took place over a 24-hour period. My team mates and I walked and ran relay-style around Bellflower High School’s track to raise money and awareness for cancer research and special programs and outreach.
relay for life

Opening ceremonies began at 9 a.m. followed by a survivor’s lap at 10 a.m. The event was highlighted at day’s end by a luminaria ceremony at 9 p.m.

I personally walked and hula-hooped around the track with a few rest periods in between from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. I then went home, showered, changed clothes, fed my puppy dogs and returned to continue walking until 3 a.m. I QUIT COUNTING AT MILE 25 … 
The day was a very big success and I am very proud to have been able to contribute to the outcome of raising over $105,000 in this one day event. Relay for life 2
Going the extra mile has always been something I believe in … whether it is participating in an event such as this or serving my clients in my Lakewood and Long Beach real estate practice.
If you would like to know about any other upcoming events … give me a call … I would love to include you.
http://www.superbroker.com/     562-882-1581

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Allison Van Wig, Local Realtor® Reports on Monthly Real Estate Sales for Long Beach & Lakewood PLUS Fun Facts On Tree Trivia

It is the first day of Summer and the numbers are in for May 2011 sales for Long Beach and Lakewood. If you listened to the news you would think that the real estate market was dead. The truth is our local real estate market is buzzing with lots of activity.

After reviewing the data for closed sales I am happy to report that Long Beach had 263 closed home sales and Lakewood had 56 closed home sales … for a grand total of 319 transactions. When you consider that this time last year the Home Buyers Tax Credit was driving the market … we are doing okay … in my opinion!

One thing I have noted in working with my buyers and sellers this spring, everyone has commented on how especially beautiful the Jacaranda trees were this year … this is more than likely a result of our abundant rainfall. This got me to thinking … just what are the most popular trees in Long Beach? … So I did a little research.

Allison Van Wig Wants You To Know … Top Five Most Popular Trees in Long Beach

If you would like to get some more information about the history of Long Beach and Lakewood real estate … give me a call … I would love the opportunity to visit with you and share some more real estate trivia. 562-882-1581 or visit www.SuperBroker.com .

Thursday, June 9, 2011

The Real Estate Buying Season Is Really Here!

School is just barely out and Summer is officially still a few more days away but … things are really jumping as far as well priced real estate listings are concerned.

Just this one week alone, I know of several properties that have been snatched up by buyers who are getting a head start on the buying season … inventories are low for standard sale properties (vs. short sales) so my advice is that if you are lucky enough to find that “perfect home” … don’t take too long before you decide on your next move … these properties that are standard sales are selling like hotcakes.

Speaking of hotcakes … one of my new listings is a hot property and will be held open tomorrow Friday June 10th from 3 to 5 pm and again this coming Sunday, June 12th from 1 to 4 pm.

One of my Keller Williams associates will be holding this open and would love the chance to show you this beautiful home and all that it has to offer.

Front of HomeFor a sneak peek you can visit the property’s website www.2120Petaluma.com 

 

 

For more information about this property or any other property on the MLS please visit www.SuperBroker.com or you can give me a call at 562.882.1581

VanWig&AssociatesLogo

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

One Month To Go Before HALF-TIME For The Year!

Now that June is here … it is time to check up on our goals, dreams, plans and … accomplishments. Here is what I have been up to lately.

In my May 13th blog, I wrote about my upcoming participation in the Long Beach Bike Festival and Tour of Long Beach … I am happy to report that I successfully completed my 31 mile bike challenge.

bike_tour_v from gazette   On the last leg toward mile 31

 

 

 

 

Here we are at the start … I had my red warm-up jacket on and was joined by my niece Meggan in gray and brother in law, Peter (see yellow sleeve).

I am currently training for the upcoming Tour de Big Bear in August where I am registered to complete a 50 mile course … here is a link if you would like to join in. www.tourdebigbear.com .

My thinking is that Signal Hill has enough hills to get me ready for this challenging ride … two months of training & I will be ready! Nothing recharges me more than a bike ride either at the start of my day or … before sunset, work schedule permitting of course.

June brings us graduations, gardening, back-yard BBQ’s & band concerts … but for me it is also prime time for buying and selling real estate.

These past two weeks, I have been very busy with my new listings and have two more coming up next week. Go to my website www.SuperBroker.com for all the information.

I am also developing my new YouTube channel, ReSuperBroker where you can find my own personally guided home tours of my listings, market updates and informational tips and tricks on the real estate market.

Feel free to check it out … www.YouTube.com/ReSuperBroker and let me know what you think. All suggestions are welcome.

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562-882-1581

www.SuperBroker.com

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Friday, May 20, 2011

Allison Van Wig Presents 2708 Arbor Road in Lakewood California & Is Having an Open House!

One of the largest three bedroom Lakewood homes of all the original models built back in the 1950’s will be available for viewing on Saturday May 21st from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.

2708 Arbor Road in the Lakewood Mutuals area of Lakewood California is a wonderful family home with everything you need to just move right in. This is a standard sale (not a short-sale) so you can close escrow in a normal period of time.

This home features a garden with established flower beds and fruit trees plus a spacious covered patio for your outdoor California entertaining.

To get a sneak peek of all that this home has to offer visit the property’s exclusive website www.2708Arbor.com

Speaking of original models … Van Wig & Associates has a unique display for you to see … if you live in Lakewood, have you ever wondered what your home may have looked like when It was first built?

Take a peek at this video and then give us a call to see our display up close and in person.

Allison Van Wig Presents Her Display of original Lakewood Homes and Floor Plans

For more information about buying or selling in Lakewood California, give Allison a call at 562-882-1581.

Friday, May 13, 2011

Allison Van Wig, Local Realtor® to Participate In Bike Festival & Tour of Long Beach

The Tour of Long Beach on Saturday, May 14th will feature more than 3,000 participants cycling for a cure, with funds being raised for Miller Children's Hospital. Children, parents, families and amateur cyclists of all skill and age levels have been invited to participate in this very worthy cause!

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This event is dear to my heart as those of you who follow my blog probably already know. I am an avid cyclist and enjoy my morning bike rides as often as possible … which I have shared pictures of on many occasions.

Speaking of cyclists of all skill levels … my two nieces Devon and Meggan have been busy training with me and we have registered for this Saturday’s event as the Butt Burners.

However … our team is down one cyclist as Devon had an unfortunate mishap last Saturday by colliding with a curb and is now sporting an arm sling to heal her broken elbow. Please join us in wishing her a speedy recovery!

If you would like to cheer the cyclists on … the best place would be The Finish Line Festival from 9AM-4PM. Come down to the lawn area of The Pike at Rainbow Harbor and cheer on the thousands of participants in the Tour of Long Beach as they cross the finish line.

Enjoy the family-friendly festival complete with a vendor fair, children's activity area, bike safety and education booths, live music and delicious food!

At the beginning of this year I blogged about the best things about living in Lakewood and Long Beach … well, it is this type of an event that belongs on that list … It is my passion to help my many clients with their buying and selling needs as they relate to our local real estate market … if you would more information … I have several sources of information available for you.

On YouTube search for ReSuperBroker for up to the minute market reports and property tours.

To see virtual tours of my Long Beach and Lakewood listings please visit www.SuperBroker.com or … give Allison a call directly at her office at 562-882-1581 but … better wait until Monday so she can recover from her thirty-one mile bike-a-thon. Wish Us Luck!!

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Think the Long Beach & Lakewood Real Estate Market is Slow? Watch This Short Video!

After researching the Multiple Listing Service for closed sales for Long Beach & Lakewood just since the beginning of the year ... which is typically not the strongest selling season ... I came up with some interesting statistics ... watch this short video to learn more.
Still need more information, just give me a call 562-882-1581

Home Sales Report Presented by Allison Van Wig 562-882-1581

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Things to Think About Before Buying a Home

If you are thinking about taking the next step in life and purchasing a home, chances are you are feeling the pressure and the anxiety that generally goes along with this difficult decision. Those who buy homes can become very anxious and should be eager to get any information they can about real estate. strategies-real-estate1

To overcome this stress and to be as prepared as you can before you buy a home, it always helps to learn all that you can.

In addition to doing your homework, the very first thing you’ll need to do when buying a home is to find out just exactly how much you can qualify for and comfortably afford to borrow. You should also make it a point to check your credit and know where you stand. If you have any problems, you should strive to correct them before you attempt to borrow money for a home mortgage. Remember the higher your credit rating, the lower your interest rates will be.

It is always best to get pre approved by a mortgage lender, as this will enhance your bargaining position when you do find a home and are submitting an offer. So to summarize, once you have been pre approved for a mortgage and you know where you stand with your monthly payments, you can start shopping for property.

Secondly, Before you start looking, you should always make a list of everything you want your home to have, based on what you want and what you actually need. You should also make sure that you mark out any areas that you are willing to compromise so when you are faced with the decision of which properties to eliminate … your list of must haves and would like to haves will help you along the way.

To assist you with finding the perfect home, you should enlist the services of P1000856a reputable real estate agent.

When you meet with your agent, you will go over how much you are willing to spend, and what type of home you are looking for. You’re agent will know where ideal properties are, and can help you find the home that is best for you.

 

In addition to searching for homes on the Internet, your agent can supply you with a list of potential properties that meet your budget and your specific features. Once you have your list, I suggest you drive by the homes and check out both the home AND … the neighborhood.

You should consider the appearance and location of the home, safety, access to the freeway, schools nearby, commute time to work, local shopping, and even recreational activities. Remember … if you don’t find something that interests you the first time, don’t give up … you should keep looking until you find the home that is best for you.

For more information on getting tips on buying or selling real estate please visit www.SuperBroker.com or call 562-882-1581

Monday, April 25, 2011

Allison Van Wig Presents 4529 Palo Verde in Lakewood California–3 Bedrooms & 1 Bath Home

If you are looking for a home where you can just move right in, then this is it! New paint, new landscaping, new flooring, new kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances.

You will be all set to entertain in this big easy care back yard with fruit trees and a brick patio area … take a peek at this home tour video and then for more information just visit the property website at www.4529PaloVerde.com or www.SuperBroker.com

If you need instant information call Allison Van Wig at 562-882-1581

 

Fabulous Home … Everything has been redone!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Local Realtor® Allison Van Wig Wants To Know … How Much Is That Doggie In The Window? New Adopt & Shop in Lakewood Mall Is Now Open!

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There I was last Sunday, running errands to pick up a few things in the Lakewood Center Mall near Costco, when the vision before me made my heart stop … I had heard that there was going to be a new store opening soon called Adopt & Shop and believe me this one is going to be a super hit among pet lovers!

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Want to adopt a pet without the hassle of going to a shelter?

As reported by Pamela Hale-Burns a Staff Writer with the Long Beach Press Telegram … Found Animals, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit group, is bringing shelter animals to the people at its first retail pet adoption center, Adopt & Shop, which opened just last week.

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"It's a concept that's been around for a while. The idea is that there are great pets at shelters, but people just don't go to shelters," said Aimee Gilbreath, executive director of Found Animals. "So, the idea is to bring the pet to the people in a pet-store environment."

All of the pets will come from one of Found Animals' shelter partners, the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority in Downey.

The Lakewood store will feature cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals available for adoption, said Gilbreath.

The 1,084-square-foot retail store broke ground in January. Much like a traditional pet store, it will feature pets and carry all of the basic supplies needed for a new pet, including food, collars, leashes, ID tags, bowls, litter boxes, kitty litter, eco-friendly toys and bedding.

"We are incredibly excited for Adopt & Shop to open, because we know it will have a tremendous impact on the number of shelter animals adopted into loving homes throughout the area," said Dan Morrison, executive director of SEAACA. "We can only hope this is the beginning of a shift in the way people view the adoption of shelter animals."

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Adopt & Shop pets will be neutered, vaccinated and micro-chipped and will go home with resources and support to ensure a successful integration into the household.

The center, located next to the Lakewood Center Costco, will be open Tuesdays through Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. An official grand opening event will be April 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I think that all shelter animals deserve a chance to find a loving home with responsible owners … this is just one of the many, many things I love about living in the Lakewood and Long Beach communities.

As a full-time Realtor® I am happy to have the opportunity to share this information with my clients. For more information about this or anything else about living in Lakewood or Long Beach … visit my website … www.SuperBroker.com or just give me a call 562.882.1581

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