Local Long Beach Realtor® SuperBroker Allison Van Wig Successfully Completes The Long Beach Bike Marathon

Sunday morning October 17th, 2010 began a little different than most of my busy weekends as a Realtor® in Long Beach and Lakewood California.

On this special day I was up at 4:30 a.m. as I began to get dressed for my ride in the Long Beach Bike Marathon. I gathered my water, snacks, helmet, etc. And like any good traveler, I double checked my bike’s tire pressure before I loaded it into the car.

First stop was to rendezvous with my niece Devon at her place … and from there we would both ride down to the start line of the marathon.

This was Devon’s first marathon and she was a little apprehensive but very excited. At 5:15 a.m. I called her on my cell phone ... “I’m downstairs are you coming?” She replied back … “But Allison, it's still dark outside!”

You see, we were riding our bikes through the streets of Long Beach before dawn and … in the dark? We had our bike lights on and needed to travel about four miles from Devon’s house in order to reach the start line of the race.

I explained to Devon ‘I’m not worried as I know there will be others that will be joining us soon.’  Devon was surprised and relieved as we rode along toward the starting line because as we continued traveling along even more riders began to join us. She exclaimed … “Wow, All these people are up and riding in the dark!”

We reached the start line about 5:45 a.m. and stayed in the back...as we needed to take it slow and steady because we don't want to be knocked down.

The time had arrived … at 6:05 a.m. the race started and we were off to a good start ...we were with about 3000 other riders.

I think Devon was a little surprised as she expected a lot more racers … but most of the elite racers were up in the front. Back with us were the beach cruisers, the old bikes, and … some old riders.

One lady who was in her 70’s and dressed all in pink, told us … “two hours and I'm done!”  I thought to myself, not bad for someone on a one speed beach cruiser.

All the pictures you see were taken with my Motorola Droid 2 cell phone WHILE RIDING ON THE BIKE … so some of my pictures may be a bit blurry.

What a great day, there was a slight drizzle and great views! We rode past the Queen Mary, the lighthouse, Shoreline Village and into Alamitos Heights and Los Altos as we rode past the pyramid at Cal State Long Beach.

 

Devon stopped at an aide station and asked for some Advil … when they asked her what she suffered from, she told them … “A sore butt!”

After completing the first part of the 26.2 mile race course, we rode back down Ocean Blvd. toward the finish line where we proudly received our medals.

What a great ride … what great riders. I am looking forward to next year and will see you next March 2011 for the Miller Children’s Hospital ride which is Thirty-One miles.

As I completed this challenge and reflected about going on this ride … it made me realize just how lucky we all are to live in such great area such as Long Beach and of course Lakewood California.

If you want more information about what Long Beach and Lakewood California has to offer just visit www.SuperBroker.com or give me a quick call at my office in Long Beach 562-882-1581 as I would love to visit with you about all that living in Southern California has to offer.

When Buying or Selling Real Estate, Why Are Home Inspections So Important?

Buying a new home is an exciting time in a person’s life. New buyers have prepared themselves with a house feature checklist and they have walked through dozens of houses, inspecting them before putting money in escrow and arranging financing. Before they close, they elected to have the property inspected by a third party – but how do they choose which house inspector or inspection company to use? Finding a certified home inspector is the answer.

Why is the home inspector such an integral part of the transaction and why are they such an expert?

Becoming a home inspector is a relatively straightforward process, dictated by the law of the state in which the inspector intends to operate. Becoming certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), however, requires a solid commitment to ethical practices and a keen understanding of construction methods. Choosing a certified home inspector is well worth any added cost for the professional service you as the buyer will receive.

Every state requires that a home inspector either be licensed or registered with the state. State laws require that before offering their services that a home inspector receive minimum levels of education and sometimes actual field experience. Most states require that a home inspector pass the National Home Inspector Exam®, or a similar qualifying exam of the state’s own design.

Both ASHI or NAHI require that a home inspector pass a thorough series of coursework before becoming a certified member of either organization. These courses cover the details of home construction from top to bottom, focusing on roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural components. Obtaining certification from either organization is a commitment of time and money on the part of the home inspector, with no guarantee that they will be able to pass the examination at the end of the coursework. Both organizations offer – and require – continuing education from their members to remain certified.

ASHI and NAHI have set high standards of competence for their members, and take certification very seriously as an emblem of quality for a home inspector.

How do you know which inspector to hire?

Before signing a contract with a home inspector, ask to see a sample of a report and make sure you understand what you will receive. Will the final report include pictures of problem areas? How detailed will the recommendations for corrective action be? Are cost estimates included if problems are found? An ethical, certified home inspector may recommend several contractors who are qualified to make repairs and give you cost estimates, but they will never suggest that they could do the work for you. A certified home inspector must remain objective and free of conflicts of interest.

Is there anything the seller can do to prevent problems?

As the home owner, you should do a bit of preparation in advance of a visit from a home inspector. Thoroughly clean the entire home – first impressions count. Remove any obstructions that might make it difficult for the inspector to observe your furnace or hot water heater.

The inspector may ask you a few questions during the inspection, especially if he observes significant changes that are significantly newer than the house.

Do not try to hide defects. This will only send up warning flags that you have something to hide.

For more information on buying or selling real estate or hiring a home inspector visit www.SuperBroker.com or call 562-882-1581

Technorati Tags: homes for sale in Lakewood CA,home inspectors for California,homes for sale in Long Beach CA,Allison Van Wig

Award Winning Homeowners Announced – 29th Annual Lakewood Beautiful Program

Last April, I wrote about The Lakewood Beautiful awards program which honors Lakewood homeowners that go the extra mile to reflect a special “pride of ownership” in the homeowner’s property to maintain well-kept, beautiful homes and landscaping.

This program was founded 29 years ago by the late Jacqueline Rynerson. The Lakewood Beautiful program is a way to encourage and thank Lakewood residents who improve their homes and gardens. Studies have shown that home upkeep and beautification efforts by caring and committed residents keep crime rates low and property values healthy. Everyone in the community benefits from this.

As a Realtor® specializing in the Lakewood Mutuals area of Lakewood, I am honored to represent the many Lakewood sellers and buyers that I have been of service to during my career of over 22 years. I take great pride when showing property in this beautiful city which is why I choose Lakewood to start my real estate practice.

This year there were 262 homes nominated. The nominees were evaluated for property maintenance, landscape design and overall appearance. Awards were given in two categories. Twenty-nine homes received the top Distinguished Recognition award, and 86 homes received honorable mention.

To see photos of all 29 homes receiving the special Distinguished Recognition award go to www.lakewoodcity.org/lakewoodbeautiful

The Lakewood Beautiful Program’s primary sponsor for 2010 is the Water Replenishment District of Southern California. Other generous sponsors include City Light & Power, Inc., EDCO Waste Services, Gateway Business Bank, Lakewood Center, Lakewood Lions Club, Lakewood Pan American Association, Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe, Piazza Family Restaurants, R. F. Dickson Company, Southern California Edison, West Coast Arborists, and Willdan.

If you would like to find out how you can become a part of such a wonderful community CLICK HERE for an active live link to the MLS.

If you have any questions about living in Lakewood, just give me a call (562) 882-1581 or scan this tag with your smart phone.

 

To get a Free Tag Reader, from your mobile browser go to www.TagForYou.com

Technorati Tags: homes for sale in lakewood CA,Allison Van Wig

4019 Locust - Fabulous Home in Los Cerritos Area of Bixby in Long Beach CA

 

Fabulous home located on a great street in the Los Cerritos area of Bixby near Virginia Country Club.

This unique property is located on more than a quarter acre of land. It is rare that properties of this size become available for sale. This two story home has a large living room with fireplace and built-ins.

Formal dining area opens to a large family room with brick fireplace overlooking the backyard.

Gourmet kitchen has granite countertops, large island, two areas for refrigerators, double oven, and several food preparation areas.

The kitchen is open to the family room creating a spacious and airy room. Master suite is large with a sitting area and walk in closet. Master bath has a large shower and soaking tub. All bedrooms are good size.

The home has central air and heat, fresh interior paint, travertine tile, and newer carpet. Long driveway with a carport and a two car garage.

To view a virtual tour with panoramic view, visit www.4019Locust.com then for more information about this home or any other home in the MLS visit … www.Superbroker.com or call 562-882-1581.

Technorati Tags: Virginia Country Club,Los Cerritos area of Bixby,Allison Van Wig,homes for sale in Long Beach CA

There Is A Lot Happening in Lakewood California

As a full-time Realtor® and to provide the BEST service possible to my Seller and Buyer Clients in Lakewood and neighboring Long Beach, California … I want to make sure that ALL RESIDENTS are aware of the various community related activities that are taking place.

There is something offered for everybody whether it be Volunteer work, finding a book bargain, After-School Activities, Fundraisers or Craft Festivals … in the near future … Lakewood California has it all!

Project Shepherd needs food donations … Donations are accepted at Burns Community Center at Lakewood City Hall 562-925-7512

After-School Activity ZONE is open … This is a FREE drop-in program for school age children, teens and pre-teens. The program is offered at Lakewood City parks Mondays through Fridays from 3 to 5 p.m. For more information call 562-866-9771 ext 2408

Book Sale To Benefit Lakewood City Libraries … Low-priced used books will be available at the Friends of the Libraries sale on Saturday October 2nd from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A discount bag sale follows from 2-3 p.m. All proceeds will support Lakewood’s two libraries. For more information visit www.lakewoodlibraryfriends.org or call 562-866-1777.

Fall Craft Festival to get Jump Start on the Holidays … This coming Saturday October 25th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lakewood Youth Center located at Woodruff and Arbor Road a variety of handmade items will be for sale at reasonable prices. For more information call the Weingart Sr. Center 562-630-6141.

Lakewood Sheriff’s Station to Host Goodwill Fundraiser …  The station is hosting a Goodwill collection event to raise funds for station programs and community events taking place this Sunday 9/26 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Lakewood City Hall parking lot. For more information call 562-623-3699 - Deputies will be on site to tax your tax deductible donations.

Then For You House Hunters, There is Always Real Estate … For more information on how to get access to all the Real Estate listings in Lakewood and Long Beach visit www.superbroker.com or call me direct at 562-882-1581 … Allison Van Wig - Realtor®  … Serving Lakewood & Long Beach Residents for over 22 years.

Beautiful Home In The Heart of The Lakewood Mutuals in Lakewood California

 

Beautiful Hardwood flooring, large open remodeled kitchen with breakfast bar and dining area. Great pantry and inside laundry room.

Large master suite with walk-in closet and private bathroom with a door that leads to the backyard.

Sunny living room with picture window.

 

 

 

Great backyard with shady patio and large grassy area. Long driveway with a two car garage in the back.

This home offers both Central Air and Heating. So many nice amenities.

To view a virtual tour visit www.4730-Obispo.com

For more information about this home or any other home on the MLS visit www.SuperBroker.com

Technorati Tags: homes for sale in Lakewood CA,Lakewood Mutuals home for sale,Allison Van Wig

The Internet - Best Marketing Media for Home Sales

 

Whatever anyone may have told you a few years ago about which media is most effective for marketing a home, it's all about the Internet today.  There simply is no more effective way to advertise a home for sale, both from a cost and a results perspective.  The advantages of Internet advertising are numerous:

80+% of home buyers use the Web - According to a survey by the National Association of Realtors®, more than 80% of home buyers now begin their search for a home on the Internet.  Reasons include the anonymity of the Web, extensive information on each home, and multiple photos and virtual tours.  Whatever their reasons, it's very likely that the future buyer of the home you want to sell will be seeing it first on the Internet.

It's economical media marketing - With many of the real estate specific websites also syndicating to many others, it's possible to place a home for sale on one site and have it appear on many others within hours to a few days.  Your real estate agent or broker has resources for syndication, as well as a group of sites on which they list your home soon after the listing becomes active.

The Internet is immediate - While placement in most print media is delayed due to production requirements, getting information onto the Web is relatively immediate.  It can take a month to get a listing into one of the Homes Magazines, and generally a week to get one into the newspaper.  It's easy to get a home listing into one or more web sites in just hours.

Space isn't an issue, so more information is possible - Unlike an ad in a newspaper that is set up based on a pre-determined space requirement, an internet home listing can just expand to accommodate the amount of information you want to show to prospective buyers.  In a Homes Magazine ad, you might have to limit your information to a paragraph, while the Web allows almost unlimited selling ability.

Visual marketing of your home is best on the Web - Many newspaper ads use black and white photographs, while magazines and other print media will usually only have one or two property photos.  The Internet allows almost unlimited photos, and virtual tours are commonplace.  With advances in video technology, and less expensive storage space, video tours with audio and music are also common.  The Internet buyer can virtually walk through your home.

Changes are also easy and immediate - With print, changes to an ad can be impossible past a certain deadline.  With long lead times, changing your price could still have the old price out there for a month or more in print.  With the Web, changes can usually be made the same day, or within hours.  The most up-to-date information is always presented to potential buyers.

The Web is 24/7/365 - Unlike pre-determined times for radio or TV spots, and issue release dates for newspapers and print, the Internet is out there and open for business every hour of every day of the year.  There has never been a more immediate and lasting impression media in history.

As a home seller, it's important to you that your home be marketed in multiple media.  So print is still something that real estate agents and brokers will use.  However, the Internet has radically changed the real estate marketing world.  Your home will be visible world-wide to potential buyers via multiple web sites, web logs or blogs, and national property aggregator web sites like Realtor.com®, Google Base, and others.

For more detailed information on how I can market a home … visit my website … www.superbroker.com or give me a call … 562-882-1581

Allison Van Wig©

Technorati Tags: Selling real estate in Lakewood,Selling real estate in Long Beach,Allison Van Wig,Internet search for real estate listings