Thursday, December 11, 2014

LAKEWOOD CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE MARKET STATISTICS

Do Homes Sell During The Holidays?

What is the real estate market like in Lakewood California during the holidays? The answer is that properties are still going strong in the Lakewood California real estate market. This video has all the information for November 2014 for Lakewood!

http://youtu.be/3TzaFJRWDSU
 


Many people often think that during the holidays real estate sales slow down. Yes, it is true that less buyers are out looking but,  the ones that are looking are very serious about buying this time of the year.


 Sellers, also please remember that if you want to sell your home at this time of year that the best buyers come around during the holidays; plus many relocation companies have higher transfer percentages at the end of the year.

Also, as an added enticement, many of our listed homes smell great with holiday baking. Feel free to watch my market video update on Lakewood and call me if you have any questions about your selling or buying strategy.


Lakewood Home Price Update


Monday, December 8, 2014

SOUTH OF CONANT - LIVING IN ONE OF LONG BEACH'S MOST AFFORDABLE NEIGHBORHOODS

SOUTH OF CONANT ... Long Beach California

South of Conant is a well known neighborhood in Long Beach offering tree lined streets, parks and neighborhoods just perfect for raising a family.

These homes were built post WWII from 1947 to 1951.

Located just East of Clark to Bellflower Blvd and just South of Conant over to Woodruff this area of Long Beach offers everything you could want.

South of Conant
Currently there are thirteen homes listed for sale in this area. The prices range from $440,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home with 962 sq feet to $610,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with 1148 sq feet.

I just listed a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home with 1164 sq feet on a 5581 sq ft lot.


This home has hardwood floors in the living room and formal dining area. Upgraded kitchen with ample space and an inside laundry.

The master bedroom has two closets. The den could be used as a 3rd bedroom.

Large backyard with a patio and grassy area. Best of all is the two car garage with a very long driveway and RV parking.

Great area close to the bike path and park.

For more information about this home or any other home in this area ...

give me a call or visit www.SuperBroker.com

562-882-1581  





Friday, October 17, 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 HOME PRICES FOR LAKEWOOD CALIFORNIA

This year is going by so fast ... I just realized that here we are already in the middle of October and I have not yet posted the September 2014 home prices for Lakewood California.


 OR  Click here for Lakewood Price Video

If you would like a better idea of what YOUR HOME may be worth just give me a call 562-882-1581 as I would love the opportunity to give you more detailed information about how the sales and listings in your particular neighborhood have resulted in changing the value of YOUR HOME.

How have the homes in Lakewood changed?  Floor plans used to be similar in Lakewood, but over the years everything has changed. Some homes have gone through major renovations with add-ons and others have installed air conditioning and upgraded kitchens. All these make a major difference when it comes to determining the value of a home,

When Lakewood was first built is was the only city at the time to have Magic King Garbage Disposals installed. Very innovative! Over the years and during my 28 years as a Realtor listing and selling homes in Lakewood, I have seen a variety of changes to Lakewood homes.

Feel free anytime to reach out to me ... I would be happy to share my information and the benefit of my experiences with you! Allison@SuperBroker.com


Friday, September 19, 2014

WHAT IS THE BEST INTEREST RATE AVAILABLE?

HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT FINDING THE BEST INTEREST RATE AVAILABLE?


Why are interest rates so different from one lender to the next? Well it depends on the cost of money for that day, just like stocks the price is always changing. 


That plus what fees are you being charged for that PERFECT interest rate?



Below are two quotes from two different lenders that I received on Friday 9/19/2014 ... both of them are from reputable lenders yet the interest rates are very different. 




When shopping for a rate, take a look at the APR and the difference in actual rate and the APR will show if there are a lot of points and fees built into the interest rate quote.

In the examples above, for a 30 year fixed rate loan, Lender A is quoting 4.125% with an APR of 4.45% while Lender B is quoting 4.50% with an APR of 4.59%. 

Lender A is charging fees for a lower rate while Lender B is offering a higher rate with less fees? Which is better and what is the difference in payment to you?

THAT DEPENDS on your available funds to cover closing costs for a higher fee to get a lower interest rate ... and in this case, on a hypothetical sales price of $425,000 the difference in payment would be $93.00 a month.

Why is all this important when you are thinking about buying a home? Talking to a lender is the very first step but many potential buyers are confused as to what all the numbers actually mean when it comes time to make that first house payment.

If you would like some guidance on who to speak with to get the information you need for your situation, I would be happy to refer you to a lender that can get you started in the right direction ... there are also several home financing programs available that DO NOT require 20% down ... so many buyers still think that they can't qualify for a home loan ... call me and let's find out together what the facts are FOR YOU!

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

3 BEDROOMS & 1 BATH IN LAKEWOOD UNDER $500,000

THREE BEDROOMS, 1 BATH IN LAKEWOOD 
UNDER $400,000.

NEW CARPET, NEW PAINT
BIG BACK YARD WITH SHADE TREES.

Want to see this home before it hits the market?

Call 562-882-1581

Want to search for other properties like this one?






Wednesday, August 20, 2014

2014 LAKEWOOD CAR SHOW

Last Sunday, 8/17/2014 ... I had the honor of participating in the 2014 Lakewood Car Show which also welcomed the traveling Vietnam Veteran's Wall!





The early morning sunrise was quite a sight ... making this a very moving event.







I was there participating as a member of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and to promote my affiliation with the wonderful organization ...




This organization serves heroes from all walks of life

by offering them savings and rebates when they buy or sell real estate.

I took a lot of pictures and wanted to share them with you so ... please visit www.LakewoodCarShow.com 
to see a compilation of all types of cars that were there ... I hope you also enjoy the music!

 If you have any questions about the Homes For Heroes program, or just want to let me know what you think of the video ... just drop me an email or give me a call ... 
Allison@SuperBroker.com /// 562-882-1581

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

3 BEDROOM HOME IS THE BEST CALIFORNIA LIVING HAS TO OFFER


Have you ever wondered what it is like to live in a beautifully appointed home with all the amenities that a California lifestyle has to offer? 


This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with over 1600 square feet of living space is just what anyone would love to own.


Large living room with French doors leading to a side patio for summer time; family room with fireplace for fall and winter time coziness.

Open and spacious kitchen with breakfast bar that overlooks the family room … for all those gatherings for friends and family alike.

Plenty of parking with a car port plus a two car garage


 THIS IS THE HOME YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!!

For more information visit my YouTube Channel and look for the video 5203 Coralite ... for a private showing call me 562-882-1581

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

How Much Down Payment Do I Need To Purchase a Home.

Recently when speaking with potential buyers they seem to have a misconception of what is required as a down payment to purchase a home.

 I am always asked 'how much down payment do I need' so I just want to clear a few things up in case you are saving up for your first home purchase.
  • A person can get a conforming, conventional mortgage with a down payment of as little as 5 percent (sometimes with as little as 3 percent coming out of their own pocket”.
  • Qualified borrowers can further reduce the down payment coming out of their own pocket to 3 percent by lining up gifts from family or grants or loans from non-profits or public agencies.
Having 20 percent down makes your payment less and you get rid of that private mortgage insurance. But if you are tired of paying your landlord, please give me a call today so we can discuss what is available and what your payment would be. There are so many programs available for you.

Know your options so you can plan ahead.

I have a great little home available at 5134 Gaviota in Long Beach CA 90807.
Priced at $399,900 it offers beautiful floors, two bedrooms, bonus room, newer windows, covered patio, two car garage and a long driveway.

Check out my YouTube video of this property
5134 Gaviota Ave in Long Beach

Want to see more properties ... visit www.AutomaticHomeSearch.com

Thursday, July 3, 2014

LOOKING FOR A 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH HOME IN LONG BEACH OR LAKEWOOD?

Have you been looking for a home to buy in Long Beach or Lakewood?

I just recently have listed FOUR homes that just might be what you are looking for.

Below are some links to videos of these listings …

GET THE POPCORN READY take a quick peek and let me know what you think!

3 BEDROOMS 2 BATHS 1346 Sq Ft

3 BEDROOMS 2 BATHS 1395 Sq Ft

3 BEDROOMS 2 BATHS 1382 Sq Ft

3 BEDROOMS 2 BATHS 1538 Sq Ft

Don’t see what you want?

visit www.AutomaticHomeSearch.com or give me a call

562-882-1581

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

JUST LISTED 4532 NIPOMO IN LAKEWOOD

WALK TO THE NATURE CENTER & BIKE TO THE BEACH !!

Just Listed 4532 Nipomo in Lakewood

3 Bedrooms and 1 Bath with everything a first time home buyer could want ...

Large living room, dining area, great open kitchen with an inside laundry room.

2 (Copy)

6 (Copy) 14 (Copy) 15 (Copy)

Great back yard with covered patio, two car garage with a long driveway for lots of extra parking.

Want to see EVEN more pictures with information CLICK HERE

If you would like a private showing just give me a call Allison 562-882-1581

Allison@SuperBroker.com

Friday, June 13, 2014

Long Beach Sea Festival & 100 Days of Summer



As I have said many times before, when it comes to living in Long Beach California there are so many things you can do that are inexpensive and fun for everyone … from Memorial Day to Labor Day ... the summer of 2013 is no different! Once again this year the Long Beach Parks Recreation and Marine Department is offering hundreds of free and low cost recreational events under the name of “100 Days of Summer.”
From the Long Beach Sea Festival,  the El Dorado Nature Center, historic site events and various programs for hiking, biking, golf, tennis, swimming and youth and teen programs there is so much do to that I don’t know how we are all going to find the time to go to work … LOL!
You can find out all about these great activities at www.100DaysofSummer.org where you will find a searchable calendar of free concerts and movies in addition to all of the activities that I mentioned above.

If you would like to get more information about living in Long Beach, I have been serving the Long Beach & Lakewood communities for over 25 years ... I would love to help you learn more about our area and how you too can enjoy 100 days of summer ... until next time ... Allison Van Wig.

Friday, June 6, 2014

GREAT STARTER HOME FOR A GROWING FAMILY

JUST LISTED 10920 HAYFORD ... 3 BEDROOMS, 1,400 SQ FEET AND A GREAT BACKYARD FOR SUMMER ENTERTAINING.

This home is nicely remodeled with hardwood floors, a sunny living room and dining area. Kitchen has new wood cabinets and granite counter tops. Inside laundry, lots of storage and three bedrooms.

Family room has a fireplace and backyard includes a garden area and patio.

To see photos and tons of info about this home like nearby stores and schools ... click the link.

BELOW IS A QUICK VIDEO OF THIS HOME


 
For a private showing ... call Allison Van Wig 562-882-1581

Monday, April 28, 2014

HOW IS A HOME PRICED FOR SALE?

The way the consumer sees the home prices is very interesting. In the last 25 years I have shown property to a lot of buyers. The average buyer looks at 10—25 homes before choosing. Most of the time these homes re in the city that the buyer wants to buy in and within a specific school district.

Some weeks ago, I had the opportunity to take a buyer around Lakewood in a specific school district. We looked at six homes, three of them had the same floor plan and out of those three, two were almost identical in upgrades. Both had central air and heat, remodeled kitchens with the last five years and great back yards. The only difference was that one was priced at $435,000 and the other was priced at $475,000. This greatly confused the buyer. I stated that the $435,000 home was a good price but not a steal. The buyer wanted to know why there was a forty thousand dollar difference for the same home.

SO LET’S START WITH THE LISTING INTERVIEW … The sellers decide to sell their home and they interview two agents. One agent brings comparable sales and everyone can see that the homes that have new kitchens in the area sell between $420,000 and $440,000. So the agents looks at the location, upgrades, floor plan and emotional appeal of the home and tells the sellers that they should price the home at $439,900.

The second agent brings comparables to the interview but the conversation with the seller is not focused on reality but on what the seller wants or what the other agent stated the home was worth.  When the sellers say that the first agent said the home was worth $440,000, the second agent may say … ‘well, I can get you $460,000’ … of course there are no recent sales to substantiate that value. The second agent just wants the listing …. You must understand that when the sellers get confused and think well maybe … of course, who would not want $20,000 more?

A good agent will always review the comparable sales in the neighborhood with the seller. Remember, we need THREE recent sales within the last six months to use for comparables for the appraiser.

A good agent will recommend what price a home should be listed at, not ask the seller what amount they want. Do not let an agent BUY your listing by telling you an inflated price. You want to sell your home at the highest price possible and be able to move on.

You do not want buyers looking at your home wondering what was the listing agent thinking.

You do not want to be locked into a six month listing contract with the agent telling you to reduce the price and not doing anything about marketing the home.

A home that sells within 30 days is priced right, gets the seller the most amount of money and has very few appraisal issues.  Don’t let your home sit on the market for more than 45 days, because if you reduce the price … the buyers still do not offer the listed price as you have already been on the market for 45 days.

It is wrong for an agent to give you an inflated price just to sway you into listing with them. You count on that money to make lifetime plans. Interview two agents and then list with the one that shows you recent comparable sales and has pictures available of those recent sales for you to actually see what the home looked like. Below is a quick video of Lakewood's market in March 2014.


List with the agent that recommends a price that fits within your parameters and one that has a great marketing plan and examples of what they have done in the past … not just promises of what they WILL do in the future. Here is some current information on what is happening in our local Lakewood real estate market. 

Friday, April 11, 2014

What does Home Ownership in Lakewood mean to you.

What does Home Ownership in Lakewood mean to you.

Over the last few years, home ownership has lost some of its appeal as a financial investment. As homeowners suffered through the housing bust, more and more began to question whether owning a home was truly a good way to build wealth. A study by the Federal Reserve formally answered this question.

Some of the findings revealed in their report:

  • The average American family has a net worth of $77,300
  • Of that net worth, 61.4% ($47,500) of it is in home equity
  • A homeowner’s net worth is over thirty times greater than that of a renter
  • The average homeowner has a net worth of $174,500 while the average net worth of a renter is $5,100

Bottom Line

The Fed study found that home ownership is still a great way for a family to build wealth in America. When I visit families in Lakewood or Long Beach that are thinking about selling and retiring, the homeowners that have been paying off their home for the last 30 years have a substantial amount of wealth. We can take a third of this and purchase a home in an over 55 community for all cash and still have the other two thirds left for them to have a great nest egg. Older people that have no home are usually spending their social security on the rent. Very little is left for them to enjoy. Don't wait until it is to late to make a difference in your life wealth. Call me today to get ahead!. If you are curious what is on the market in Long Beach and Lakewood go to my website at www.SuperBroker.com. Lakewood was just voted as one of the top ten boring cities in California (probably because we do not have enough bars!) If you would like more information about how wonderful living in a boring city like Lakewood ... let me know, I have the inside scoop.
Benefits of home ownership

 

Friday, March 21, 2014

11527 Elvins Lakewood Ca 90715

I love walking into a home just like 11527 Elvins in Lakewood CA and visualizing being able to move right in. This home feels so comfortable.

I visualize the living room with a good book and an afternoon breeze.

The kitchen has fresh cookies on the counter.

I am excited about this home as I think it is perfect for that first time home buyer.

Great backyard with three fruit trees.

Home has been updated with copper plumbing, newer dual pane windows, newer carpet and flooring, and fresh paint.







Just started using a company that incorporates floor plans and really feel that this helps my buyers. If you are thinking about selling your home give me a call today at 562-882-1581.
Just wondering what your Lakewood home would sell for? Go to LakewoodPrices.com

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

MOVE IN READY - 2 BEDROOM STARTER HOME

When you think about it ... why would anyone want to pay over $2,000 dollars a month for rent when they could buy their own home and pay the same amount of money?

Brand New Listing just coming on the market ...
2 Bedrooms, Large Sunny Living Room, Remodeled Kitchen,
Large Back Yard perfect for Entertaining ...

Watch this video and then call for a private showing!

If you have any questions or want to search for more homes

Monday, February 10, 2014

The History of Valentine's Day

What does Valentines Day Mean To You?


Throughout the ages, Valentine’s Day has evolved to what we are now familiar with today, its history is varied & there are legends dating back to 270 A.D.

There are folk traditions and its connection to romantic love.

The Medieval period and the English Renaissance also have contributed to this day’s history which all brings us to how we now observe this holiday in modern times.

Each country in the world celebrates this day in its own special way … to learn more about these traditions … search for Valentine’s Day on Wikipedia.com!

 For Valentines Day 2014, I encourage you to show your love to someone every day and make Valentine’s Day last ALL YEAR!!

From my Heart to yours … HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Duplex one block from the beach!

I just listed this stunning duplex one block from the beach! It is perfect for an owner occupant. Each unit is approximately 1350 with three bedrooms and two full baths. The bottom unit has lots of light. Nice size living room, dining area, remodeled kitchen and inside laundry. The master bedroom has a walk in closet and vaulted ceilings. Go up a set of stairs to a small deck and open the door to the upstairs unit. Beautiful wood laminate floors lead to a large living room with open beam ceilings and  fireplace. Dining area, open and remodeled kitchen, inside laundry, master bedroom with beam ceilings and a large deck. The units come with a two car garage and two small spaces on each side for parking. Very special and unique units for beach living. See some pictures at
Click Here for Pictures
This is an opportunity to have a home at the beach and a rental unit to help cover the cost of your house payment. Call Allison Van Wig today and find out how affordable your beach life could be.
562-882-1581

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Lofts in Long Beach

Excuse any typos as I am sitting at the Wilmore in Long Beach with my glass of wine and Ipad and blogging.  It's January and I have been out showing property in 85 degree weather. Normally it would be about 65 degrees, but we are having a warm spell.  I currently have a customer who wants to purchase a loft to live in. Long Beach is converting more of the older buildings to lofts and it's great to see the inside of these homes. Sometimes they feel a little stark to me, maybe a little unfinished. I am not sure if I like one large unfinished space. Tonights showing was exciting, it made me realize what could be done! I have seen a lot of lofts and none have been finished this nicely. This unit located in the Kress Lofts was extra special. The owners had taken some of the cement floors and polished them to a high gloss. They had taken old barn wood and laid a floor in the living room with it. Beautiful contrast of materials. It made the open space feel warm and cozy.  The ceilings were 14 feet high and they had elevated a section to make an office space. This made the office feel private and gave you storage underneath.  It also divided the bedroom from the living room. I was ready to move in. I loved this place. I actually told my client that it felt like a glass of great wine!
After, I decided to go to the Wilmore in Bixby Knolls and get myself a great glass of wine. I also love the Wilmore. Great atmosphere and great people.
If you are looking for a loft in Long Beach give me a call at 562-882-1581.  We can go look at a few then, I will treat you to wine at the Wilmore!
Dog bed under stairs-looks so comfy!

Love the large windows
Huge cement beams


Saturday, January 4, 2014

Happy New Year!

Every year I take off between Christmas and the New Year and rejuvenate. This year I was up in Big Bear. We are so lucky to live in Long Beach and be only two and a half hours away from skiing and other mountain sports. I bike rode, snow boarded, and went to look for some old mines. On New Years Day I drove down and cleaned the office and got organized. I love that fresh start feeling that comes with the New Year. While I was in Big Bear I took a picture of this tree. This tree was moving to me as I wondered how many years it had endured and it was still beautiful, full of color. May your New Year be filled with many blessings. Love from Allison Van Wig in Long Beach California. 

2702 Arbor in Lakewood California

Nice backyard with brick patio