WHAT WOULD MR. GREENSPAN HAVE DONE?

Regardless of how you felt about good old Mr. Greenspan – like or dislike, one thing is for sure…we all feared him and the world watched and listened to his ‘Greenspeak’ announcements which made most of us quiver, shiver, or cheer.

December 11th, Mr. Bernanke might have moved us one step closer to recession with a negligible ¼ point drop in Fed Funds rate. Then, yesterday the Fed announced a new global effort with other central banks and unveiled a plan to sell billions in loans in order to create more liquidity in the mortgage markets. Let’s face it, the banks don’t trust each other any more, so this could be a welcome avenue to create liquidity which would allow lenders to make loans again!! Analysts and Wall Street professionals think yesterday’s announcement is brilliant…

But I can’t help to think…What would Mr. Greenspan have done? And I think he would have dropped the Fed Funds rate by ½ point to try and get ahead of the mess we’re in. No doubt that when the 4th quarter earnings are reported by major banks in January it will be ‘confession time’ again with more write-off’s and more discord on Wall Street.

The Fed might be just too hawkish on inflation here and we are perhaps at the tipping point! Please Mr. Bernanke …have an egg-nog with Mr. Greenspan over the holidays and get this economy going again.

We’d love to hear your feedback on this topic. Drop us an email when you have a moment.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Does Experience Contribute to Success?

Did you know that approximately 54% of the Realtors in California have less than 3 years experience “in the business”? That means they have never experienced a market with any degree of challenge.

Do you think that an experienced agent or broker can contribute to the level of success a home owner can achieve as a seller in the current real estate market? Experience means a verifiable performance record, marketing plan references and full time commitment to the business as well as an unblemished personal record at the Department of Real Estate and Local Association of Realtors.

Get back to me with some feedback on this topic.
Send us an email when you have a moment.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Is 2008 the Dead End For Limited Service Providers?

In the midst of a heated real estate market (as was the case from 2002 – 2005) some sellers sought an opportunity to ’save a few bucks’ and contracted with a limited service provider (formal term for a discount broker). Why does this happen in real estate?

Do people seek out a discount orthodontist, a discount heart surgeon, a discount attorney? The likelihood of that is pretty slim. But Sellers felt like they were in the driver’s seat during the recent real estate boom and some looked for a way to avoid commission dollars, even at the risk of improper protection or representation for their transaction. Perhaps they just didn’t understand the true value of a Realtor.

National statistics show that homes sold with a full service Realtor yield on average a 16% higher sales price*. That alone is well worth the cost of a fair commission. But now it’s nearly 2008, and with the market swinging to the tempered side (to say the least) and with enormous inventory levels, without a doubt it is the Buyers who are in the driver’s seat.

So, are the days of discount brokerage gone?

We’d like to hear from you on this topic.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors





* Statistic from N.A.R.

Real Estate Hurt by Media Spin

I am so tired of the negative media constantly ranting about how horrible everything is in our business. It’s time for our industry to fight back against these psychic vampires who seek to suck every bit of hope and optimism out of us just to build their circulation.

Newspaper headlines and buzzwords abound, such as: “Two million people will lose their homes in foreclosure in the next two years!” “Sub prime Fiasco!” and “Mortgage Meltdown.”

These are the headlines we hear every day, yet where is the positive news about the real estate market? The answer is, buried in statistics on page 18 of section 5 of your newspaper, provided you can find them at all.

A September news article ends with the negative media’s favorite theme for scaring their readers and/or listeners: “Two million people will face foreclosure in the next two years.”

Here are the numbers that the negative media did NOT report from that article:

1) Thirty-five percent of the homes in the U.S. do NOT have a mortgage.

2) Some 94.88 percent of the loans ARE performing.

3) The foreclosure problem in this country is really a story about seven states.

4) The biggest foreclosure problems are in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. These are manufacturing states that had horrible job losses. Since 2001, Michigan has lost 300,000 jobs. These states would probably have had problems no matter what the market was doing.

5) The other four states -- California, Florida, Nevada and Arizona -- experienced significant overbuilding. Twenty-five percent of the foreclosures in these states are on properties that are held by investors who were speculating.

6) Only 25 percent of all mortgages are sub prime, and of these, 75 percent are performing.

7) In the other 43 states, foreclosures have fallen in 2007 from 2006 (data from Michael Clawson, vice president, Central Texas Mortgage).

Furthermore, buyers who are waiting to purchase when the so-called bubble pops in California’s major metropolitan areas are going to be sitting on the sidelines, according to the latest data from the C.A.R. Realtor group.

According to Leslie Appleton Young, chief economist for the California Association of Realtors, the areas being hardest hit in California are the outlying areas where there has been overbuilding. The resale market in California’s major markets continues to be strong. In fact, the closer you are to a metropolitan area, the better the sales are. In the million-dollar-plus price range, there has been essentially no change from 2006 to 2007.

There’s no question about the fact that there is bad news in some markets. What upsets me is that there is also a lot of good news that is either being buried or is not being reported at all.

We’d love to hear your feedback. Please leave a comment you have a moment.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Did Governement "Ride to the Rescue" for Homeowners?

Yesterday, the government announced it's plan to assist those homeowners suffering from sub-prime loans and interest re-sets.

Did they do enough?

Did they do too much?

Email us your thoughts after reading this overview...

President Bush unstrapped a plan on 12/06/2007 that offers foreclosure relief to potentially 1.2M homeowners. It includes a temporary freeze on low, introductory mortgage-interest rates that could otherwise increase dramatically in the next few years.
But the plan has some restrictions...do you think they are good or bad? Email us your opinions...read on.

The plan excludes anyone more than 30 days late at the time the mortgage would be modified or anyone who has been more than 60 days late at any time within the previous 12 months. According to reports, it also covers borrowers with adjustable rate mortgages (ARMS) resetting in 2008 and leaves out any who are judged capable of continuing to make mortgage payments at the higher reset rates.

But you should know that there are 2.2M borrowers with sub-prime ARMS that are expected to reset through the end of 2008. According to an analysis made by Barclays Capital, only 240,000 of those 2.2M loans would be covered by this plan.
Some industry experts called this "a step in the right direction" and President Bush said "there is no perfect solution".

The plan applies to loans originated between Jan.1, 2005 and July 31, 2007 that reset between Jan. 1, 2008 and July 31, 2010. But the aid will only come to those who ask for it.
Congress could also help by acting quicker on passing mortgage relief legislation, including the FHA Modernization bill, the change in tax code and a bill enabling local and state governments to issue bonds to finance mortgage refinancings. All of these bills have been held up in Senate for weeks or months...shame shame!!

Please send us your thoughts...

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Senator Ackerman Awards Michael Caruso with Legislature Resolution

Senator Dick Ackerman was a guest presenter at an Orange County Realtor Association event where he awarded Michael Caruso with a California Legislature Resolution to recognize the work Michael performed while serving as 2007 President for the Association of Realtors.

The Orange County Association of Realtors is the 16th largest Realtor Association in the USA. Michael Caruso served during a very challenging year for the industry. He remained focused and intent on member services and community involvement. While serving, Michael initiated 3 new committees to assist in facilitating the needs of the membership. One new committee is the “Media Relations Task Force” which is responsible for building a better bridge of communication between the Association and the media. Another important committee is the “Emergency Preparedness Task Force” which is responsible for facilitating safety measures and emergency strategy during times of natural disaster or local emergencies. The 3rd new committee is the “Past President’s Advisory” which is comprised from the previous sitting presidents within the past 10 years so as to offer guidance and counsel to the sitting president as well as develop success strategies for the Association of Realtors.

When asked about his service to the Orange County Association of Realtors Michael said “This is an experience I will cherish forever…and it is quite a huge undertaking and responsibility”.
Michael Caruso has been a real estate Broker owing his independent real estate office since 1994. Prior to that he worked for very successful franchise offices in the Long Beach area. He is committed to the real estate profession. Michael Caruso can be reached at 949-753-7900 or through his web site at MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com. Michael is an ardent community volunteer and also serves on the Executive Advisory Board at Cal State Fullerton. Feel free to contact Michael at any time with your real estate questions.

Broker Fights to Replenish OC Food Bank

Broker Michael Caruso has found a creative way to help rebuild the inventory at Orange County's Second Harvest Food Bank.

Caruso has successfully created and now tested a method whereby he requests that agents bring a can of food when they come to view his listings that are featured on "Broker Tour" in various areas of the county. Michael put this system into effect this week while serving lunch at his new listing located in San Juan Capistrano at 27492 Silver Creek and has gathered about $200 in financial contributions as well as filling a barrel with canned food and dry food items. "A can of food for the charity is their ticket to get in in order to view my new listing, then I feed them lunch while they are there at the home", Michael said.

Michael asked a representative from Second Harvest Food Bank to join him so as to launch this effort and help introduce the program. Representative Lorina Smith was anxious to put forth an effort to increase attention to this important cause. These items will no doubt be helpful as food bank inventories are hitting very low levels. Due to the current economic conditions, the number of families in need has increased substantially while the number of donations has diminished. The results of these two dynamics can be devastating.
Caruso said "We have initiated some momentum here. People have a better understanding of the challenge that faces us. Some Realtors have now agreed to place donation barrels in their offices and Affiliates have joined the effort to help increase attention at their holiday functions".

Michael Caruso has been the Broker/Owner of Orange County Real Estate Services since 1994 and prior to that he worked with several large franchise offices. He is an ardent community volunteer and has served on numerous C.A.R. and N.A.R. Committees as well as having just served the Orange County Association of Realtors (16th largest in the USA) as their 2007 President. He can be reached at 949-753-7900 or through his website: MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

"I hope we take this food drive campaign to new heights during the holiday season and throughout the New Year", Michael said. "This is a serious time in our lives and in history, and people need to think more about helping each other."

Cold and Flu-Like Symptoms? Blame Toxins!

Have you been suffering form sneezing, headaches and an upset stomach? While flu season is upon us, your body may be suffering the affects of immunotoxincants (toxic chemicals that weaken the immune system).

Here are some ways to limit your exposure:

*Use natural cleaners rather than common household cleaner, which are known to prevent the body from being able to effectively fight off germs and viruses.

*Keep your home and office well ventilated by opening windows and doors when possible

*Use untreated cotton or linen sheets. Most bedding is treated with formaldehyde, which can cause cold symptoms such as congestion.

*Rather than using pesticides, select herbal repellants to treat areas where pests are present in and outside your home.

Many skeptics balk at the thought of abandoning the use of 409 and Ajax instead of choosing green products…Can one have a presentable home while using eco-friendly, “safe” products? I say the answer is “Yes.”

What are your thoughts?

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real; Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CBR CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

MCREG Goes Green!

Nowadays, going green is not only a trend, it’s a new way of life. By taking time to evaluate ways reduce your carbon footprint, we help make the world a better place for our future.

Here are some great ways to go green in your office:

*Print on both sides of paper when possible
*Recycle cans, bottles, paper
*Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs which last ten times longer and use seventy-five percent less energy
*Utilize auto-shut off features for all lights, air conditioning and electronic equipment
*Purchase air purifiers to clean office air
*Donate or recycle old electronic equipment. For a list of charities who accept such donations, visit epa.gov


The Michael Caruso Real Estate Group is not only concerned with the environment, but we also are very interested in providing tips to help others adapt their offices as well.

Do you have any other ways that your office is being eco-friendly?

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real; Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CBR CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Underwater Reef to Produce Real Results

This week marked the official dedication of San Clemente’s artificial reef.

The reef, which is composed of fifty modules (40 x 40 meters each) stretches from the San Clemente Pier to San Mateo Point and is located a little over one half mile off the coast. The project is funded by Southern California Edison in an attempt to offset the affect San Onofre’s Nuclear Generating Station has had on the kelp habitats in the ocean.

After calculating construction, research and testing costs, over $40 million was required to complete the reef project, which is hoped to promote diverse population. Southern California Edison has high hopes that the reef will produce 50 million fish annually.


Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real; Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CBR CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Where Were You in 2003?

Well, where has the time gone? Seems it's 2003 all over again except we've all aged 6 years.

Recent reports from October sales and value analysis indicate real estate values have hit the mark they were at in 2003. This week the stock market hit levels last seen in 2003.

So what are the key essential differences as we embark upon 2009 and important bench mark values are at 2003 levels? Pretty simple.

1) There was momentum in 2003

2) There was optimism in 2003

When things seem at their worst, they probably are. There is only one place to go and that is up! Think upbeat. Today, our President said..."This situation didn't create itself overnight and it won't be solved overnight" The key is...it will be solved. But people want immediate gratification, immediate cures, immediacy is a way in which we have been groomed during the past decade or so.

This is going to take a little more time. But expect fiscal stimulus that will rock your world and get things back on a positive track. It is important to stay on a personal positive track at the same time.

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Bison Population Improving at Camp Pendleton Marine Base

The iconic American Buffalo resides in a very unusual place...the Camp Pendleton Marine Base. In the 70's the San Diego Zoo gave 12 of these Bison to the base. Since that time they have multiplied and currently the herd stands at about 150. They are simply left alone to roam about 38,000 acres of the 125,000 acre Marine base. These are the plains bison and they are genetically pure, larger than their counterpart the woods bison.

This elite group is one of three such herds nationwide. And they are healthy. They have been randomly tested and all are disease free with no heavy metals in their system despite living on an active base, and no signs of inbreeding. Oh yes, they get in the way at times during drills and everything stops for a few moments while horns sound to scare them off.
Because of over hunting the bison in North America fell from a population of millions to just a few hundred by 125 years ago. The majority of bison living today are privately owned in herds of less than 1,000 and are generally fenced in small areas according to the U.S. Department of the Interior, which manages almost 7,000 bison in 7 national wildlife refuges and five national parks.

It's great to see these splendid animals survived the ravages of the 1800's.

Your comments are welcome...

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Utah to Send Anaheim "Green Power"

No, this is not a trade in the NBA...

Anaheim seems determined to honor their word and the state mandate that 20% of their power be "green electricity" for households by the year 2012.
After a bit more testing is completed the Utah power plant will send Anaheim 11 megawatts of power beginning in 2009 from the Raser Power Plant, which boasts zero carbon emissions. A spokesman from Raser said that 95% of the equipment they use to make geothermal green power is from machinery we've had for many years. They run huge air conditioners backward...only 5% of what they use to obtain this green power is new technology.

A geothermal generator uses heat from underground hot water to produce electricity.

My only question is why can't we do this locally and not ship it in from another state?
Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRBS CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Anyone Remodeling? The Space Station Is...

Money is tight. Contractors are looking for work. How far will they travel to get work? To the Space Station?

The International Space Station is set to get a facelift soon as astronauts prepare for an upcoming launch that will have them make improvements which will essentially double the crew capacity at the station. They will set in place a new water recovery system, a new fridge, set up extra sleeping compartments, add a work out machine capable of performing 30 exercises for crew members using it, and add a half bath. They will be setting up extra lap top stations, thermostats and most important...they are going "green". They will install an environmental system that is a closed loop - essentially recycling almost everything. Yes, if you were thinking what I was thinking...it will turn urine and condensation into drinking water.
If NASA wants to increase they crew size from 3 to 6 astronauts, these things must be done. And we are set to get them done in the next voyage, scheduled for later this week.

So wish them the best of luck and a safe return.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Mr. "Governator", Please Don't Kick Businesses When they're Down

In California, the Governor is faced with an $11.4 Billion budget deficit. Our "Governator" has proposed an economic stimulus plan that would have the state sales tax increased by 1.5% for a 3 year period. Ideally this would bring much needed revenue for the state...but wait a minute here. I said "ideally" it would do that. However, what if the increase in sales tax causes people to buy less and the result is more businesses closing? A very real possibility. It could create a further economic deterioration and downward spiral. I really don't want to go to any more "going out of business" sales!

Other ideas brought forward in the Governors package I can really get behind. They include calling for scaling back holiday pay to straight time rather than time and a half for all state employees. And by the way, we have nearly 235,000 state employees. And eliminating 2 paid holidays per year. That still leaves plenty more paid holidays. I don't get any paid holidays at all. Hey...I think people are lucky to be working in this economic environment and this type of payroll adjustment can save the state $1.4 billion per year.

Imagine if we had those 2 adjustments in place 6 or 7 years ago...we wouldn't have a deficit at all!

So please Mr. Governor, don't kick businesses when they're down...

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Can Campaign Signs Get a "2nd Term"?

Do we all agree that by the last 2 weeks of a major election campaign signs everywhere are about nauseating?

Well, what happens to the signs after an election? Whose job is it to remove them from light poles, fences, greenbelts, intersections...you name it? Should they be removed at taxpayer expense? Well some cities have rules about the candidate removing the signs within 30 days of an election, other cities have crews that remove them and I'm told that some candidates remove their signs without having to be asked.

But what about giving signs a "2nd Term"? How can we re-cycle them to be painted over by upcoming candidates or stored to live another day as they are re-used by incumbents? Wouldn't that be better than filling up dumpsters with campaign signs of an election aftermath?

There must be a way to take this old fashioned campaiging in a "Green Direction"?

Your comments are welcome...

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Broker Michael Caruso Receives Award Recognition from Congressman John Campbell

It's not everyday that someone receives an American Flag flown on their birthday over our nation's Capitol from their Congressman. Michael Caruso, Orange County Real Estate Broker was awarded this distinguished honor in a ceremony marking his service as President of the Orange County Association of Realtors. Congressman John Campbell presented Michael with an American Flag which was flown over our nation's Capitol in Washington DC on Michaels' birthday.

"This recognition and award brought a tear to my eyes", Michael said. "I thoroughly enjoyed serving the Association in my year as President and made many friends in our Legislature and in the local political arena as well. But this type of farewell gift is astounding".

Michael has served the Orange County Association of Realtors on its Board of Directors since 2001. In 2006 he served as President-Elect and in 2007 Michael led the Association of Realtors (16th largest in the USA) through some very tough times in the most challenging market in the history of California real estate. "Throughout the year in 2007 there was one disappointing surprise after another, from declining sales to sub-prime melt down. Despite these challenges, we managed to increase our Realtor population, maintained a balanced budget and improved the standards of education for our Realtors with over 250 educational classes offered during the year. In addition, we instituted 3 new committees to touch on media relations, emergency preparedness for staff and visitors to our buildings and a presidential advisory committee to counsel our sitting president on macro and micro real estate dynamics."

These days, Michael Caruso is back at work while continuing to serve the Association as immediate past president. "It's nice to have 20 hours a week back for my office work and for my clients, but I enjoyed every moment of service to the Association of Realtors. Somehow, when serving you can still fit everything in to each day, so there was always time for client service while I worked as Association President. We have a big responsibility of serving the citizens of Orange County and connecting every day in every way with our communities. We take this responsibility very seriously.

Michael's real estate office is located in the heart of Orange County:

9891 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine CA 92618 and his main office line is: 949-753-7900.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Why, Why, Why, Another Ugly October…

Does that sound like “Wah, Wah, Wah”?

October as it pertains to the weather and October as it pertains to the business world are two totally different tales.

For weather…even in states where there are only two seasons, October marks a distinct change of season. More beauty and awe exists in states that enjoy four seasons…October brings crisp, clean air with an amber and gold leaf color to trees.

But whoa unto the business world…October seems to bring in the worst of times for business. Why does it always have to be such an ominous month? October brought us the 1929 stock market crash and the 1987 Black Monday. This year in October, despite ending on an up note, the stock market handed us the worst performance in some 21 years. This October handed us paper losses of between 2 and 3 Trillion dollars. So, what is it about October? Does anyone have any ideas?

Your comments are welcome…

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Towering Christmas Trees at Malls Don't Impress...They Hurt!

Here it is in "The OC". November is upon us and some (if not all) attention turns to Christmas shopping. Along those lines, we are home to several of the largest grossing dollar volume Malls in the USA.

But one of them...South Coast Plaza hurts me every year. No, not with the prices of items. It is with the delivery of their Christmas Tree.

This year, the South Coast Plaza Mall will hoist and decorate a 96 foot 60 year old white fir from Mount Shasta. Beautiful? Absolute YES! But it's criminal to kill a tree like this, then haul it 650 miles in the longest trailer truck allowed by law, just to position it at a Mall.

It will be seen by many and certainly enjoyed for it's grandeur and decorating...but they killed a beautiful tree. Maybe these are the places that should consider employing an artificial tree, assembling & re-assembling every year.

Am I being too environmentally conscious? What do Malls in your area do? Let me know your thoughts.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Santa Ana Winds Damage Your Trees?

Last week we had some intense winds that knocked down more than a few trees in my neighborhood. From branches and leaves creating a mess in front yards to entire trees snapping at the base, I thought it might be a good time to post some tips on how to help strengthen trees in order to protect your home:

*Avoid tying small trees up to tightly. Whether the tree is young or small in size, trees should be tied loosely enough so that they may sway with the wind which can prevent snapping.

*If you stake your tree, be sure that the trunk will not rub against the stake if high winds occur, as this can cause deep, unsightly “wounds.” Such wounds can invite disease, pests and can damage the tree.

*Remove any stakes a year after planting the tree so that the tree will be able to develop roots which will firmly anchor it in the ground. This way, when winds kick up, the tree will have a better chance of standing strong.

Your comments are welcome.
Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Home Sweet Home...and Safe Too!

Fall is a great time to take half of a day and reevaluate your home’s current safety level. Here are some ways to do so:

*Clear clutter from stairwells- This sounds simple, but it’s important to keep the stairs clear for a quick exit, and to prevent a possible stumble.

*Check heating equipment-Fires due to heating equipment are most prevalent during the fall and winter months, so double check to make sure all heaters are in proper condition.

*Guard against poisons-Examine cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms (and anywhere else you may keep substances of this sort) and move anything that may potentially harm a child or pet.

*Look out for slippery rugs-Secure rugs with materials such as double-sided tape to ensure that there are no injuries caused by this common household hazard.

It may not be your first choice while you have downtime, but taking time to make sure that your home is safe will provide security and comfort for those who live in and visit your home.

These are only a few ways to help make your home a safe place…Have any more good suggestions related to this article?

Your comments are welcome!

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Want Winter Herbs? Pot Plants Indoors

Do you miss those savory flavors and aromas of fresh herbs during winter months? Harsh weather can cause herbs to die over the winter months. This year, why not try planting indoors? Here are some good tips to ensure that you herbs are plentiful:

*When you move the herbs from outside to inside, check for bugs. If you choose to use these herbs in cooking, you will want to use a soap-based insect product to kill any bugs that may have hitchhiked inside.

*Cut herbs back to about half in order to set the stage for proper growth. Since plants may suffer a bit of shock from the move inside, be sure to give them more time for growth than usual.

*Ensure that the temperature where the herbs are placed is not more than sixty-five degrees. Higher temps may cause the herbs to die prematurely.

*Be sure not to water your herbs too much. One of the most common ways for a plant to die is from over watering. Water your herbs once a week or so, when the soil is dry one inch down.

Your comments are welcome...

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best Regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Disneyland’s Halloween-time Graveyard Workers

While Knott’s Berry farm is credited for the official first transformation from ordinary theme park to Halloween-themed Park, many other amusement parks have also undergone spooky transformations nationwide during the month of October.

Disneyland however, has been slow to make the transformation. While the park has not failed to acknowledge Halloween, the entire park does not take on a completely different look in order to do so. Some nods to the holiday include the Haunted Mansion ride, which features characters from “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” In addition, children are invited to trick-or-treat at Disneyland on October 31st.

This year, to become even more Halloween-like, decorations were put up all over Disneyland in order to continue the celebration for children. Workers were asked to create, assemble and display festive décor all over the park during graveyard shifts, in order to show Disney’s love for Halloween.

Does Disneyland still compare to other theme parks nationwide during the Halloween season?

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Feeling Blue? Try a Brain Stimulator!

Recently the FDA approved Neuronetics Incorporated’s transcranial magnetic stimulation procedure for patients who did not respond to pills prescribed for depression.

The TMS procedure is non-invasive, but is a little bit out of the ordinary from the ways I’ve read about for depression treatment. A “brain stimulator” beams magnetic pulses through the skull, which is said to cause the patient’s brain cells to fire.

While the treatment is said to help patients who do not respond to pill treatment, they will pay a higher cost for this alternate therapy. TMS treatments can range from $6,000 to $10,000.

My question is, which is better? To explore new ways to treat depression that may not explain the long-term risks or to continue to try different types of pills to see which may respond to a person’s body chemistry?

What are your thoughts?

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Oops…We Gave Your Money to Someone Else!

I read an alarming article in the Register this week.

Apparently the City of Newport Beach failed to update its list of homeowners…for twenty-six years! Due to this large error, royalties from fifteen city-owned municipal oil wells were sent to the wrong Newport Beach residents. These royalties amount to over $25,000! That is a big “Oops!”

Here’s the kicker: The reason the error went unnoticed for so long was because the checks sent to undeserving recipients were still cashed!

My question is, with homes changing owners as often as they do, especially in Orange County, why are the records not updated more frequently? Shouldn’t this be a monthly activity for someone who works for the city?

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Middle Age Suicide Rate Rises

Recent report released Tuesday of this week showed the suicide rate in the USA rose by about 25 percent, fueled by middle-aged whites.

Now before you go blaming the economy or the president, or real estate market or stock market you need to know that this was for the period of 1999 – 2005. Come on…those were some darn good years – so what’s up?

Middle-age men continue to kill themselves at a much higher rate than middle-age women (no wonder we’re outnumbered). Suicide rates fell slightly among blacks and Asians of all ages, as well as among white teenagers and fell among adults younger than 40 as well as people older than 65.

But the number of white people 40 – 64 who took their own lives increased to 17.5 for every 100,000 people in 2005 and was 14.9 per 100,000 people in 1999.

What do you make of this info taken from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine?

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Costco...Perfect Partner for Starbucks and Me

Come on…who does not like Costco? I know sometimes you buy more than you need of an item, but there is some savings in power buying. Some families pool their money and buy the super quantity item, then divide it up, so they still save big time.

Well Costco just partnered with Starbucks and is selling Starbucks gift cards at 20% off.

Ok, so if you use your Costco Amex card, you get savings added into your account and mailed back to you every year, plus you get 20% off on the Starbucks gift cards you give to all your friends and clients.

I love it! Next thing I’ll be clipping coupons!

Your comments are always welcome…

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Bills Seem High? Blame Sticky Prices…

Have you ever heard of the term “sticky prices”?
In real estate, we experienced sticky prices when sellers were in denial (not a river in Egypt) about the housing price correction and falling prices. Eventually, sellers got the message and began to price homes competitively.

Well, now the same “sticky price” phenomenon continues in other areas or the economy. Like when companies raise prices or add a surcharge on products and keep those prices higher even when there is no longer a reason…like soaring oil prices.

Let’s take a look at pricing. Consumer prices are set by companies. Commodity prices are set daily on the open market. So, once a price increase is set in place it virtually never goes away. The only factors that can drive the price back down is a lack of demand, or a competitor in a category cutting prices to lure customers away from another brand.

Unfortunately for us consumers, the brands and banding together raising prices in unison…and none are worried enough about one trying to break away with another’s customers by cutting prices. That is very bad for us guys. But, as soon as the first in a category drops a price, others will follow to protect their consumer base.

Seems like consumers are always in a mess these days….your comments are welcome.
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

2008 and Pirates Rule the Seas…

No, this is not an episode of Johnny Depp and Pirates of the Caribbean. This is not the 1600’s with tall ships and canons.

This is 2008 and yet tiny little ponga boats with meager outboard motors scour a patch of sea called the Gulf of Aden which is about 300 by 900 miles off the coast of Somalia and they steal huge freighters. They don’t even care what’s in the freighters; they just pirate them, threaten the crew and steal them. In fact they have seized about a dozen ships. It happens that some of these freighters are carrying arms and weapons, tanks and more.

Can anyone explain how a little ponga boat can capture a freighter?

Is this an instance where size doesn’t matter?

Help me on this one…comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

So What's the Problem?

Recent stats show inflation backing off? Check
Large Social Security cost-of living increase? Check
Dow rebounding? Check
Hurricane season over? Check
Price of oil dropping? Check
New Home Construction stopped? Check
Auto dealers offering special pricing? Check
Shop & Restaurants offering specials? Check
Election campaigns nearing an end? Check
Foreign Affairs looking good? Check
Economic bail-out in place? Check
Bernanke lowering Fed Funds Rate? Check

So, why hasn’t real estate sales picked up? Why haven’t lenders started making home loans again? Why are car loans difficult to obtain? Why is it difficult to do a “work out” with a failing loan? Why can’t we find a bottom?

Your comments are welcome…

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

So What’s the Problem?

Recent stats show inflation backing off? Check
Large Social Security cost-of living increase? Check
Dow rebounding? Check
Hurricane season over? Check
Price of oil dropping? Check
New Home Construction stopped? Check
Auto dealers offering special pricing? Check
Shop & Restaurants offering specials? Check
Election campaigns nearing an end? Check
Foreign Affairs looking good? Check
Economic bail-out in place? Check
Bernanke lowering Fed Funds Rate? Check

So, why hasn’t real estate sales picked up? Why haven’t lenders started making home loans again? Why are car loans difficult to obtain? Why is it difficult to do a “work out” with a failing loan? Why can’t we find a bottom?

Your comments are welcome…

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Compare this Crash to Others….

Remember always hearing "when I was a kid…." Or "if you think this is bad…" from old timers when talking about weather or the economy, or the infamous walk to school?

Well, here are some brief comparisons to previous crashes, so you can take stock (figuratively) in what your losses are in this correction.

Managing emotions is critical to managing ones investments and that goes for securities or real estate. Here it is October again (somehow crashes are inherent to this month) and most people have watched (hopefully ONLY watched) their shares, bonds, mutual funds crash almost across the board. Did you sell off?

To quote Yogi Berra "90 percent of the game is half mental".

Most people forgot there was a 1,000 point Dow melt down in 1998 in a period of just a few days, following the crisis in Asia.

Most people only remember the "famous crashes" of 1929 and 1987. But there were panics and crashes in 1812, 1857, 1873, 1903, 1907, 1914, 1917, 1930, 1937, 1946, 1962, 1966, 1973, 1976, and 1998. Did I mention the dot-com bust and correction from 2000 to 2003?

But markets have always recovered. Some people panic in certain markets and others see opportunity in panic markets.

We're gonna be OK. Your comments are welcome…

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

OC Father and Son Climbing to Himalayas

A 64 year old retired OC school principal and his 38 year old son, who works as a director of admissions at an OC private school will climb to the world’s sixth highest peak.

There is no margin of error for a climb like this. Everything must be tightly wound. Even the guide you choose and the course or path you take could make the difference between success and failure…and in failure can come tragedy.

This is no pine tree and babbling brook climb. It is ice and snow and rock…and bitter cold with limited oxygen.

Out there, only Mother Nature is in charge.

Good luck and safe travels to this father and son team. I hope to report their success at a later date.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Europeans Fear Going Deaf…

Wow! I thought American parents were the only ones afraid of going deaf from the blazing music volume our kids play in and around the house. When we tell them to turn it down, in go the earphones or earbuds and they keep listening to music…but did you ever wonder how loud it is? I don’t have to wonder because I hear it resonating from those earphones…so it is loud. Darn loud. And then I think when I have to repeat myself talking to them that perhaps they are losing their hearing rather than having ‘selective hearing syndrome’ – common to all young adults.

Well, recently in Brussels Belgium the European Union told music lovers to turn down the volume on their MP3 players for risk of permanent hearing loss from listening too long at maximum levels. These EU rules are designed for noise in the workplace, construction sites, factories and even orchestras…they aren’t just targeting MP3 listeners. But they are cautioning them!

So, aren’t I the smart one! EU scientists reported that between 2.5 million and 10 million Europeans could suffer hearing loss from listening to MP3 players at unsafe volumes (determined to be more than 89 decibels) for more than 1 hour daily for at least 5 years.

In France, Apple was forced to pull its iPod player from the shelves and upgrade the software on the device in order to limit the sound to a maximum of 100 decibels. Apple already ships a warning with each iPod that cautions “permanent hearing loss may occur if earphones or headphones are used at high volume”.

So…can you hear what I’m saying?

As always, your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

OC Beachomber Saves a Life

Define a “beachcomber”…my impression is a person who casually strolls the beach, no work pressure, no time pressure, enjoys the outdoors and in particular the sand and sea.

So…a 51 year old man who is a beachcomber, habitually walks along a beautiful San Clemente beach named “Cotton Point” for therapy on his leg. He walks with a cane. He also “adopted” a section of the beach to clean up debris (beach clean up adoption is so cool) because seeing debris annoyed the peacefulness associated with his beach walks.

One day recently, this beachcomber hears screams from the water and sees just an arm sticking up from the water. He sees nobody reacting, so he decided to act and went toward the water. He was knocked into the water by crashing waves and popped up right next to a drowning man. He grabbed the man’s hand and the next series of waves knocked them back toward shore. Then the beachcomber gained some footing and used his cane to coax the drowsing man the rest of the way in, settled him on the beach and went for help. When he returned everyone was gone…

A few days later, lifeguards saw the beachcomber and said “you saved that mans life”. They said the victim told them if the beachcomber hadn’t gotten to him, he would have drowned out there.

This beachcomber has been walking the beach for 7 years and picking up trash during his walks…now he has unselfishly saved a life (while risking his own). His name is Mark Aubrey and I would like to congratulate him.

I hope this story made you happy…your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Shoplifting…New Image in New Economy

Shoplifting is pretty cut and dry. You really can’t talk your way out of it. The perpetrator conceals an item and walks off. And some celebs have even been caught doing it, so it seems there is no forgiveness or favoritism.

The shoplifting rage now is price tag switching in the fitting room. Don’t think it’s just young people. Think well dressed middle age people. Yep!

Defrauding by bringing a sewing kit into the dressing room to switch a designer label and or switching a price tag to a lower one are treating the same as walking off with the item. That can be embarrassing when you are walking off in hand-cuffs.

I have an idea for shoplifters…if the outfit you want is $180 and you can only spend $110, how about charging the difference on a credit card and paying it in monthly installments!

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Adults Now Liable for Underage Drinking...

A warning to parents...Mission Viejo, CA recently adopted a new law that makes adults liable for under-age drinking if they provide the location for it. The "Social Host Ordinance" is already in 24 cities in California and is sure to be seen soon in others around Orange County. Laguna Hills is currently drafting its own ordinance.

Parents may feel more comfortable knowing their barely legal children will be drinking at home, rather than sneaking out to parties--but time has come for consequences. An adult is now liable for under-age drinking if it occurs in their home. The primary goal of this law is to target "party houses". Officials hope to reduce the percentage of loud parties, underage drinking (and driving),and create a safer and healthier community.

The law has a maximum punishment of $1,000 and 6 months jail time, and at the minimum reduced to an infraction. Each violation will be reviewed case by case and the city attorney will make sentencing decisions. Alongside penalties may be community service, which may be particularly focused towards organizations such as MADD.

What do you think about this? Will it help reduce the number of alcohol-related incidents?

I'm interested in your comments. Please send your thoughts and share with me if this is happening in your community.

And thank you for making me your Orange County Real Estate connection.

Best Regards,
Michael Caruso

When is it Time to take Away Grandma or Grandpa's Car Keys?

OK...let me assure you all that this has nothing to do with gas prices.

I love my Dad and he is 85, pretty sharp and going strong. He passed his last driving and vision related test from the state. He drives himself to all his doctor visits (plenty of them) for this or that but it's all a part of general aging.

But every now and then I look at his car and there is a scratch or a ding and I ask..."how did that happen, dad?" He has no answer. Well, I begin to wonder about the cars he parks near and if he has damaged any of them. And then I wonder, what is the right age to stop driving? There is the question of dementia, diabetes or just dulling senses that can cause a serious accident.

Is there an age when a driver license should become void? Or, are we not to take a license away? Is driving a car a right of freedom or a right of license?

I would love to hear comments on this one if you find a moment....

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards,
Michael Caruso

King of Filmmaking Losing Films

California is king of film production. Movie Town. Hollywood. Lights, camera, action!

Film production is a major economic engine for the state of California, yet we make it so difficult for companies to film here. Permits and taxes, more permits, more taxes and then some more.

Meanwhile, other states are creating incentives for filming at their locations...clever, huh?
Well, the "governator" himself Mr. Schwarzenegger wants to keep film productions here in Ka-li-fornia and his is encouraging tax incentives to do so. That's because we stand to lose tens of thousands of jobs if studios move and film in other states. Schwarzenegger was offered a cameo role in the "Terminator 4" sequel and he said "No" unless it was filmed in California. It is NO, because they are filming it in New Mexico and saving $12 Million by filming there.

Get smart Ka-li-fornia....

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards,
Michael Caruso

Help for the Flat Footed...

A new surgery can correct a flat footed problem which causes aches and pain throughout the body for many people.
Sometimes when your feet hurt, your back hurts and your whole body can begin to hurt. Ask anyone with flat feet and they'll tell you. It is documented that 25% of people are flat footed.

This is not a cosmetic problem but it causes pain and begins at an early age, carrying on throughout life.

Now there are treatments that can put that bounce back in the step of flat footed people and it's one of The OC's foot/ankle surgeons who can do it. A titanium stent is inserted into the sinus tarsi (fancy for bottom of the foot) and it helps form an arch. The procedure takes less than 30 minutes per foot and there is no "down time" or crutches, pain is minimal and no physical therapy needed.

There are old fashioned remedies as well...like cushioned insoles and anti-inflammatories, but this surgery sounds interesting.

Learn more at ifabs@earthlink.net and Happy running and walking.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards,
Michael Caruso

OC's Got "Midnight Muncheez"

Well, there is a time for everything and with drunk driving a sore spot everywhere a group of entrepreneurs has found a way to keep people safe and make a business out of it!

These guys, known as "Midnight Muncheez" provide the solution for the OC's munchie craving middle of the night consumers by selling and delivering everything from french bread pizzas, to ice cream, popcorn, peanuts, cigarettes and even toiletries in hopes of curbing the number of drunken drivers who might venture out to buy munchies after a night of partying. Some consumers just like the idea of a night time delivery service while they're kicking back watching a movie at home.

Either way, the police support the effort and it keeps drivers safer when keeping drunken drivers off the road. This business thrives in Newport Beach and hopes to expand to Huntington Beach. Most college towns should consider a service like this.

I like the entrepreneurial style and the concept because it can save a life. Good luck to "Midnight Muncheez".

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,

Michael Caruso

Energy Conservation Goes Way Beyond Fuel

Think about electricity efficiency as well as just fuel for energy savings. Here is some energy data that you'll find interesting and compelling:

*Electricity use per home rose 23 percent from 1981 to 2001 according to the Department of Energy.

*The Census Bureau says 89 percent of single-family homes completed in 2006 within the U.S. had installed air conditioning, up from 46 percent in 1975

*If we merely improved just 5 percent as a nation in electric efficiency we could prevent 90 large coal-fired power plants from having to be built over the next 20 years, according to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

*Companies are working on software and sensor networks (EnerNOC is one) that can remotely dim lights or adjust refrigeration temperatures inside businesses, in an instant.

Your comments are welcome. And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,
Michael Caruso

Thrift…a Growing Choice for Teens

Tougher times create dynamics not seen before. This time there is a change in the wind for teen shoppers. Teens usually lead the fashion craze. Just think of all the 'big league' names like Abercrombie, Gap, Express and Banana Republic to name a few. You think teens are shopping as much as they used to at these stores?

A growing number of teens have turned to "Thrift Shop" clothes shopping because of a sour job market, slow economy and rising costs of clothing. That is a far cry from the free spending of recent years when teens splurged on everything from Coach handbags to Juicy Couture T-shirts!

Now, jobs for teens are less plentiful and parents who supplied extravagant allowances are feeling the economic pinch themselves.

Recent TV commercials are making it cool to be frugal...like eating off the $1 dollar menu at your favorite fast food place...and the take out food section of Costco is busier than ever (cheap, but great pizza and hot dogs).

Well Thrift Stores are cool too...especially if they have a cool name for the store and save us parents some money!

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards,

Michael Caruso

Artichokes in Your Garden? Oh Yes!

If you ever had an artichoke I don't need to tell you what a culinary treat it is.

But I learned recently that artichokes are also being used as a decorative in many gardens. The large leaves of this perennial Mediterranean plant have a silver tone and it can stand on its own as a focal point.

Artichokes grow up in the Monterey area of California and I do remember some being grown in Irvine (Oh yes, we have great soil in Irvine...too bad it's all being built on). They go dormant in the summer months and in the fall they really kick it up with new leaves and a larger base. The artichokes bloom in the spring...and what could be better than a plant that compliments your landscape and provides a yummy appetizer?

Thanks for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards,
Michael Caruso

Did You Pay Sales Tax on the Puppy or Kitten You Bought?

I bought my dog from a breeder and I sure don't remember paying any sales tax....
If I bought a puppy at one of the Mall pet stores, I bet I would have had the sales tax on my bill.

Did you know that breeders and pet stores should be charging sales tax on puppies and kittens bought there? The state of California believes this tax has always been there and is launching a campaign to remind and encourage pet sellers to charge sales tax. If a breeder or a pet store makes more that 2 sales a year, they should be charging sales tax...says the State Board of Equalization. The state thinks they are missing about $14 Million in sales tax every year on these missed pet taxes.

Next time I buy a gold fish, I'm gonna make sure they charged me tax on it...because our state needs every penny with its huge budget deficit.

Thanks for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,
Michael Caruso

Create Your Own Peaceful Place...

Stress has been a buzzword for 10 or more years now. And finding a peaceful place or peaceful time for solitude is a challenge for most. But, have you ever thought of creating that peaceful place in or around your own home?

We seem to go places to find that peace or solitude like: the gym, yoga classes, pilates, the beach, church, library, a hike, a coffee shop or quiet restaurant.

Every home has enough space to create your own peaceful place. With thoughtful landscaping an out of the way area can become your peaceful place. Think about spirit gardens, meditation gardens, herb gardens, dripping water fountains...all sensory and spirit rich, fun to work on and not difficult to do. The 3 key elements in gardens for reflection and meditation are: water, lush green plants and comfortable seating. Moving or dripping water can mask distractions like noise from traffic. Plants provide shade, visual interest and oxygen.

Your "look" can be minimalist, artistic and practical. That way, your peaceful place doesn't become another work place...So think about that and maybe visit a plant nursery to get some ideas.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
Best regards,
Michael Caruso

Nutrition Can be Undermined by Stress

I eat stress for breakfast...nothing ever bothers me...I don't worry about anything! Are those your mantras?

Well for all of us who spend thoughtful time to instill proper nutrition in ourselves and others we care about, take heed that all the nutrition in the world won't offset a high stress lifestyle.

Let's talk about food and nutrition. Food should be consumed at the table with friends or family, good conversation and companionship. That provides stress relief which invites food to be digested properly, metabolized properly and therefore provides nutrition. Less fast foods and more home meals is an important consideration.

Take good care of your body, eliminate stress wherever possible, plan meal gatherings at the table and make an informed decision about vitamins or supplements.

Remember that kids have stress as well (homework, tests, school, social pressure), so look out for those little people too.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,
Michael Caruso

Invest in Yourself with Education

Is education an expense? Perhaps we should all think of education in a different way...as an investment rather than an expense!

Isn't it true that we are always learning in our lifetime? Well, continued formal education has never been easier. We can take courses in a classroom or on line. We can listen to educational and self improvement CD's. We can listen books on CD's or download books into the new Amazon Kindle electronic reader and go paperless!

Is there any excuse for not pursuing continued education of some kind? The fact is that we're out of excuses because of progress and ease in pursuing anything educational. We can always enhance what we already know, or pick up new skills, or pursue new interests.
Education is the single best thing a person can do for him or herself.

Think about it....

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,
Michael Caruso

U.S. History of Church and State

In Orange County we have several cities with the guts to again allow slogo's like "In God We Trust" around city hall. Remember when that (on all coins and paper money) was never controversial? Now, that and more is controversial, so I thought you might like to see a history of Church and State in the USA...

1791: Congress ratified the "Bill of Rights" respecting an establishment of religion.

1833: Congregational Church in Massachusetts is the last to be disestablished.

1940: In Cantwell v. Connecticut, the Supreme Court ruled for he first time that the free-exercise clause of the First Amendment applies not just to Congress, but to state governments.

1948: In McCollum v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court ruled 8-1 that irt was unconstitutional for schools to set aside time during scholl for religious instruction on school premises.

1954: Congress adds words 'under God" to the Pledge of Allegiance, after a campaign by the Knights of Columbus, a Roman Catholic organization, and other religious leaders. Two years later Congress makes "In God We Trust" the national motto.

1962: In Engel v. Vitale, the Supreme Court ruled 8-1 that a prayer which the New York Board of regents required public school students to say each morning was unconstitutional.

1963: In Abingdon v. Schempp and Murray v. Curlett, the Supreme Court found daily Bible reading and the recitation of the Lord's prayer in public schools unconstitutional.

1971: In Lemon v. Kurtzman, the Supreme Court formulated a three pronged "establishment" test: Does the government action have a bona-fide secular of civic purpose? Does the primary effect neither advance nor inhibit religion? Does the law avoid excessive government entanglement with religions?

2002: The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals declares the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional when recited in public schools because it contains the words "under God". The ruling comes from a case brought by Michael Newdow, a Sacramento atheist who didn't want his daughter to be forced to hear the pledge recited in class.

*compiled from AP news research.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards, Michael Caruso

Dramatic Oil Decline DOES NOT MATCH PUMP Prices

This is the 2nd post I've made crying out for parity between the price of oil and the price of gas at the fuel pumps.

The greed factor has us on the short side again. The prices don't match up. We should be at $1.89 per gallon based on today's oil price of $69 per barrel. And oil is headed further south. Let's assume it takes 7 to 10 days for prices to catch up at the pumps. Well, we are still behind.

I'm just looking for the consumer to get some benefit here.

Economists say that if oil prices keep dropping, it points to continued economic slowdown. A no win situation. So, retirement accounts will dry up, but we'll be able to drive anywhere?

What a mess.

Your comments are welcome...

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best Regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Trash Cans Without Ads=High Cost for taxpayers!

Rather than pairing with a charitable organization, City Council is proposing a plan that will tax residents $9,730 as well as an “unspecified” contingency fund to replace trash cans on San Clemente beaches.

San Clemente’s contract with Adopt a Beach expires on December 31st, and the City Council is seeking change. Currently, the city has commercial cans that are provided at no cost..So my question is? Why fix what isn’t broken?

Is there any harm in having trash cans with advertisements on our beaches?

What are your thoughts?

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Wall Street Fiddled While LA Burned...

I am trying to be happy about the rage on Wall Street today.

But here in Southern California the "devil winds" are blowing again and we have fires (serious ones) just 20 miles north of LA.

This marks one year almost to the day that we had disastrous fires in Southern California and here we go again. We hardly get a chance to grow new vegetation before the next "fire season' starts.

So Wall Street, I'm happy...way to go today!

But, I'm gonna pay closer attention to my neighbors to the north than the market this week. I think you all understand why.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Expectations of Immediate Turnaround Could Set Up Disappointment...

We have seen a stock market correction recently unlike any other since 1987. In 1987 however the turnaround was within 1 year. Yes, just 1 year later the market recaptured all it's 1,400 point loss and was a bit ahead.

It may take longer this time...far longer. And hoping or expecting for that quick 'snap back' could be a set up for disappointment.

Instead, it may be better to consider some mild life style changes. Here are some suggestions:

1) Small cup of Starbucks rather than a 'grande'.
2) Light lunch rather than a sit down lunch.
3) A light dinner and a movie rather than an extravagant evening out.
4) Rotate a weekend dinner at friends homes to maintain companionship while budgeting.
5) Use a bike or scooter once in a while for a quick trip to the post office or other errands.
And saved money goes into a savings account, if possible.

Now, and well into the future, home buyers will have to save money for a down payment on their home purchase. This is something not unusual to those over 40 years of age. It's a good thing to have some 'skin in the game'.

Posture yourself to manage finances and manage your expectations of an economic turnaround.

It could take a while to work things out.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

AIG...OK to "Party Hearty"?

AIG said in a recent press release that it is 'OK to party hearty'. They said they have to entertain in their customary manner to take care of clients that provide them with the business they enjoy in their AIG-AG and IFLC divisions.

Within days after accepting an $85 billion federal loan AIG hosted 820 people at The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum to celebrate their 35th anniversary. Costs? Who cares!

It gets better...

During that same period of time (the same weekend, in fact) AIG's subsidiaries spent a whopping $443,344 at the St. Regis Hotel in Monarch Beach "entertaining". We'd need a full time CPA just to calculate how much "fun money" these guys are spending.

It gets still better...

Meanwhile, the government was agreeing to another AIG loan in the amount of $37.8 billion.

Additional parties are on the horizon for AIG. They have scheduled a little get together for 400 stock brokers at the Marriott in Atlanta next week which will include airfare and hotel rooms, food and refreshments.

Wait just a minute here! If our government is funding this company than they (AIG) have to be accountable to us, the taxpayers and to the government.

But AIG thinks the parties are necessary...

We need you to weigh in on this one, please.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Bush Can't be a Lame Duck in his Last 100 days

Usually a president in his second term can just coast to the finish line.

Not this year...not this time.

We all need Bush to work hard in his last 100 days as President. No lame duck scenario can be tolerated. Our President has to be out there, calling leaders from other countries, continuing dialog with leadership and with the American people.

There are issues remaining like a mid-east peace deal, North Korea and nuclear arms, tension with Iraq, tension with Iran...the list goes on.

In addition, we hope for a smooth transition into our next presidential term. And constant monitoring of the economic challenges facing our country.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Dance at Nightclub, Help Pay for Education!

South Orange County Teen Emily Daniel had a big idea to finance her education: Open a Nightclub!

The Dana Hills High School student, who borrowed money from her Grandmother to start the LLC, uses proceeds not only to fund her college education, but also to donate to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Stirling Nirvana nightclub is held at locations such as the Laguna Hills Community Center and the Orange County Sailing and Events Center. These dances provide high school students (ID required) with the opportunity to gather away from parents, while still providing a secure environment. With security on her payroll and parking lot sweeps to prevent backseat alcohol parties, parents need not worry about dropping students off for the evening.

Emily’s events have already proven to be great successes: her attendees range from 100-350 dancers at each event, and her MySpace and Facebook friends list is rapidly growing.

While she will be ineligible to dance at her own nightclub in less than two years (the age maximum is 18), Emily hopes to continue her entrepreneurial endeavors in college...What will her next business be??

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Donation is Music to Their Ears

There is a wonderful place in Santa Ana called the Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center. Here, children with developmental disabilities partake in after-school dance, music and art classes, which are all provided at no cost, thanks to many generous private donations and grants. The center hopes that such programs will prevent high-risk children from becoming involved in drugs and violence further down the road.

Unfortunately, the only thing the Arts Center lacked was enough instruments for their many students. This week, that all changed! Coastal International had several unsold instruments leftover from an exhibition earlier in the year, and after learning about the students and their need, donated instruments including guitars, drum sets, keyboards, saxophones and more.

In these tough economic times, it is still amazing that people are still remembering those in need. Perhaps focusing on others can help us remain thankful for what we have.

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Once Boring…Now Scoring!

Bank CD’s are again in the limelight as an investment vehicle.

In the “go-go” years from 2001 to 2005 people liked the real estate investments and the stock market roared along until 2007. But recent cycles and market corrections have kept people away from both (at least temporarily).

So where can you park some money and make a few bucks? Well that old boring CD is back in vogue. Do your homework and you’ll find some attractive yields for 3 month, 6 month and 12 month CD’s. They may be boring but they are safe.

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Angels Sitting on their Sofas...Expensive Ones!

October and Baseball Play-offs go hand in hand.

Not for the Angels baseball team. They are once again sitting home on their sofas…expensive ones too. The team payroll has grown and the talent pool has grown, but they freeze up like Little League players and look around in dismal disbelief as they continue to get pushed aside in their quest for baseball play off recognition.

All this makes it seem that 2002 (seems so long ago) was just a “Cinderella Story” rather than building block for a strong franchise. But they are really good at building a high payroll and that’s how the players pay for those big cushy sofas to watch the play off games rather than play in the play off games.

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Sports…More Important than Ever!

Sports are our thing! As Americans, we love our sports…from weekend kid’s soccer games to high school track and field, from baseball to college football, from pro football to pro basketball, from swimming meets to girl’s softball.

We love our sports.

These sports provide an escape from the pressures of life...and perhaps that is their most important feature these days.

Sporting events also create economic stimulus. Even in the worst of times people fill a college stadium and those stadiums can hold from 50,000 to 90,000 people. The fans pay for parking, beer, soft drinks and hot dogs. All this creates jobs and creates stimulus for those local economies.

But these days…it’s the escape from bad news that sports provide to us all. And Lord knows we need it.

Your comments are welcome.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

Melanoma...A Clue for a Cure

Just about everyone will warn you to wear your sun block lotion when you're outdoors these days. Sun over exposure has been the blame for skin cancer for as long as I can remember (although we defied it as kids - could never get enough sun & fun).

However, research is showing that a missing protein may explain why some skin cells advance to a deadly skin cancer known as melanoma rather than simply developing into harmless moles. Part of our natural defense to combat cancers comes from a protein known as IGFBP7.

The protein can be made in a synthetic form now, and when applied to melanoma cells in the lab it has stopped melanoma cancers from growing. While melanoma accounts for a small percentage of skin cancers, it does account for most skin cancer deaths which equaled about 8,000 in the US for 2007.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,

Michael Caruso

The Origins of Language...

No doubt today, kids use language that makes us think for a second or two. They have some sayings to get across certain ideas that are far from what adults use to communicate. But have you ever thought about the origins of language?

Well, scientists think about it and are coming closer to understanding the genetic origins of language. They are working to identify the genes that allow humans to talk and understand each other. While linguists have looked for clues since long ago of how language works, scientists take a different approach. Scientists have studied the language-impairing disorders like autism and dyslexia looking for common genetic aberrations. This work has shown there is a gene called FOXP2 which ensures the brain's asymmetrical layout also seems to be important for language.

There is still an enormous amount of work to do for scientists, but their success will uncover ways to treat internal physical disruptions. I applaude their efforts.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,

Michael Caruso