Caruso's Homebuying Tips for BUYERS!

If you are considering a home purchase, be sure you don’t go it alone. Buying a home in today’s market requires help and guidance from a real estate professional. With multiple parties involved in most real estate transactions, pursuing a home alone, whether new or re-sale would make you feel like a goldfish in a pool of sharks.



The following are some excellent home buying tips to consider and questions to ask when selecting a real estate agent to look out for your best interests:

1.First and foremost, select an agent who will represent you exclusively. This type of representation will only happen if you choose an agent who represents buyers in their business.
2.The real estate agent’s experience and negotiating skills are paramount to your success. Be sure to ask how long they have been in the business. Their expertise in short sales and bank-owned properties should be mandatory, with no exceptions.
3.A good real estate agent must have excellent communication skills, but should be a better listener. They should be attentive to your needs. They should explain the entire real estate transaction process to you, whether you are a first-time buyer or seasoned individual.
4.After you select an agent to represent you, and before you make an offer on a home, be sure the agent provides you with the most recent documented sales in the neighborhood. Only then will you make a determination on a price to offer for the home. These documented sales, or what we call a “comparative market analysis”, must be homes within the neighborhood and have similar features as the home of interest. Remember if you are financing the home, an appraisal will be performed prior to the close of escrow. The appraisal will protect the buyer from “overpaying” for the home.
5.The real estate professional should explain to you, the buyer, the entire home buying process, thereby limiting or minimizing surprises during the transaction. Be certain that your representative follows through with the Title or Escrow Company, your mortgage lender, the appraisal, and home inspection. The experienced buyer’s agent should have a list of licensed contractors, plumbers, and electricians for referral should the need arise.
These home buying tips will prepare you when first contacting a real estate professional by phone or email. Be conscious of their response time. This will be the first indication of how their communication skills, attentiveness, and punctuality will be toward all parties in the sales transaction. Remember that this will be the most important financial decision of your lifetime, so don’t compromise and let the experience become stressful.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

The List

Buyers have a long list of what they want when home shopping, but one of their biggest desires: A good deal. "And no matter where a seller prices their property, they’re looking to negotiate," president of the MetroTex Association of Realtors, and having served as past President of the Orange County Association I agree.

But that’s not all they want. Bankrate.com recently asked real estate professionals to chime in on the top desires of their buyers when home shopping. Here are four things that made the list of top home buyer preferences:

1) Homes that are in good condition. "There’s not a lot of flexibility in that," says Ron Phipps, president of the National Association of REALTORS. Many buyers now take the attitude: "I’d rather spend the money getting into the house" and not have to spend more money later, Phipps says. One of the major reasons is that "buyers have limited amounts of cash," he adds. "Even if they want to buy a fixer-upper, they don’t have the money to do it."

2) A bargain with incentives. Buyers are looking for a good deal, even when considering bank-owned properties, says Joan Pratt, real estate broker with RE/MAX Professionals in Castle Pines, Colo. "They want the short sales and the foreclosures and they want them to look like they’re owner-occupied," she says. "They don’t want to paint. They don’t want to put carpet in. They don’t want to clean." And they aren’t only asking for a low price but they also want incentives to buy too. As such, sellers are offering everything from gift cards for new furniture to paint to financial assistance at closing.

3) Outdoor living areas. Homes with screen porches, outdoor kitchens, 2-way fireplaces are becoming increasingly competitive in the marketplace as more buyers say they want more outdoor living space.

4) Open kitchens. "The wall between the kitchen and the family room is evaporating," Phipps says. "The kitchen is becoming part of the gathering space.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900 (949) 753-7900

Caruso's Favorite Things...

I have listed 12 of my favorite Real Estate Social Media Sites to help you with your business!

1. Facebook: One of the fastest social networking sites. Facebook is one of the easiest ways of finding prospective customers within any given area. Using Facebook, we can target very specific groups according to our business needs; such a high level of targeting is not a possibility with other social networking sites or community sites. We can find our customers based on specific set of criteria including place, age etc.

2. Localism: This is a very niche based community site. At Localism, we can interact with the local merchants. This is one of the best examples of social networking at a micro level. People of the same place can get together to share the happenings of their community. This community site is not only for the merchants and business people but it is also for common people.

3. Trulia: This is one of the top-rated sites for marketing any real estate related services. It has been estimated that Trulia attracts around 5 million potential buyers and sellers each month that are interested in real estate property in some way. Trulia Pro offers highly comprehensive marketing solutions for realtors as well as for professionals from the other fields who want to market their brand online.

4. ActiveRain: YAY that’s us! ActiveRain is one of the few networking sites that are exclusively meant for real estate professionals. We can make use of this real estate community site free of cost and its membership counts to 98,000 and still growing. We can post our profile online using the free membership. Making use of their referral service, it is possible to get in touch with the top real estate professionals and leads from both local real estate market and outside. The referral service allows us to search the local markets within each county.

5. RealTown: RealTown.com is one of the top real estate portals, which serves as a perfect meeting place for real estate buyers and sellers. This site offers a lot of useful resources for the real estate professionals as well as for people that are interested in buying and selling real estate properties.

6. FlippingPad: If you are a real estate investor who is interested in building relationship with other investors then FlippingPad is the place to be. FlippingPad provides a unique opportunity for the wholesalers whereby they can find many prospective leads. We will be able to interact with the investors using the forums. We can post our doubts; take part in discussions, which makes it a very interactive site.

7. LinkedIn: Almost all realtors will have an account in LinkedIn. This is one of the most happening places on the internet. Professionals from all fields want to be part of this network. This is a very sophisticated network with many tools and in built tools that we can use to interact with the other members. You can send invitations for others to join your network and send requests to other members to join their network. People can find us by our name or by using specific industry related keywords.

8. Puurple: Puurple is almost like Digg.com. We will be able to find and vote for posts that are related to real estate.

9. Zolve: This is another useful platform that serves as the meeting place for the buyers and sellers from the real estate industry based area.

10. Real Estate Webmasters: Realestatewebmasers.com has an exclusive section for realtors whereby realtors can interact with the local as well as global real estate professionals.

11. WannaNetwork: Wannanetwork.com is one of the high traffic real estate community sites. Here we can create new groups and also join the existing groups. This community networking site allows us to freely interact with the other members interested in the real estate industry. There is a lot of knowledge sharing here.

12. RealEstateForum.com:You can ask real estate related questions in the forums and get your answers. You can also start a discussion on a hot topic or take part in other discussions. You will be able learn a lot about the real estate industry by becoming a member here.

Caruso's Business Plan!

A full business plan allows you (an individual or business) to detail a strategic operating plan, define and execute your value to customers and others in the market, and develop a robust financial model that details what you need to accomplish in order to meet your projections. This is an extremely valuable personal process and document. You will find that a business plan is also a valuable tool if you want to bring on a business partner or get in sync with existing partners or employees, and if you ever want to raise money, it will likely be required by a potential investor or for a bank loan.

The sections introduced below are the most valuable topics to cover in a business plan and some may be more relevant to you specifically, and others less relevant, so use this as a guide rather than a golden rule.

1.) Cover Page and Table of Contents:
It may seem simple, but these are important. The cover page should make it clear what the plan will discuss – it could be you as an individual agent or your plans for starting and growing your own brokerage. The table of contents will allow anyone reading the plan to skip ahead to the sections most important to them (sections may be more relevant to you personally and also to whomever is reading the plan too).

2.) Executive Summary:
The first step to creating a personal business plan is to develop an executive summary. If you are working as an individual agent, this “step one” (the process and the actual document) should be enough to help you successfully define your role in the market, set goals and optimize your results. If you have a team, or hope to open you own business and/or hire people in the future, you’ll also want to take step two – creating a full business plan.

3.) General Company Description:
Discuss where you (or the business) has come from, the current state of operations and where you want to go.

4.) Objectives & Exit:
What are your “end game” goals? Do you want to save enough money to retire? How about sell the business to a larger competitor? Pass along the business to your children or a protégé? It is important to honestly define what you want the outcome to be so that you can tailor the rest of your plan towards these ends. It is also important to set expectations for those working with you.

5.) Management:
Provide a detailed biography for all key leaders involved (even if it is just you), and discuss how prior experience and success will help achieve current goals. You should also discuss any leadership positions that will need to be hired for as your business (and the plan) matures.

6.) Product & Service Description:
Provide details on what you provide to your customers. You should prioritize the most important revenue streams first, but all should be mentioned. If you are an agent, you might talk about each step of the process towards closing a sale with your clients (i.e. listings for review, mortgage options, showings, title insurance options, escrow options, making an offer, appraisals, inspections and closings – give or take a few steps). You should also talk about how and how much you get paid for each product you sell or service you provide.

7.) Market Analysis:
This section should provide a detailed description about your specific market. Include objective details like total market size, growth trends and customer behavior statistics. You should also provide subjective analysis on where you fit in and where customer behavior is headed. This section should also detail your competition. You may want to list the other brokerages that specialize in your region as well as the top individual agents in your region (include how you will overcome each competitor). You may also want to do a SWOT analysis of yourself/your own company here (Strengths – Weaknesses – Opportunities – Threats). We’ll dig deep into SWOT in coming weeks.

8.) Marketing Strategy:
Detail your strategy to acquire and retain customers.

9.) Investment Opportunity:
This section is only relevant if you need to raise money to fund your business, but this includes both external money (i.e. bank or angel investor) and internal money (i.e. your savings or family money). Detail how much money you need, the premium that an “investor” will get for providing this money and how/when it will be paid pack. Even if it’s your money, you want to make sure you have a solid plan and a strong return on investment.

10.) Financials:
This is a vital component of every business plan, and as such, it will be detailed separately in coming weeks. Even if you only develop an executive summary and don’t do the full business plan – make sure you develop detailed financials. You need to build a sophisticated model that addresses all of your revenue and costs. You should not work backwards from your financial goals to build this model – that is a common, classic and huge mistake. You need to start with realistic business assumptions that match up to your plan and then work towards determining accurate final projections.

How to use your business plan
As with your executive summary, the process of creating this document is as important as the document itself. Once complete, your business plan is a detailed encapsulation of everything about you and your business. You can use it to recruit employees, add strategic partners in peripheral industries, and raise money. Do not ignore its value for you personally, though. Make sure your efforts are in line with the strategy you have mapped out. If market conditions change, then your plan likely has to change too. Finally, your financial model and projections should be used as an important (self) management tool. If your assumptions prove to be off, correct them and project how this will affect your business. If done well, this plan and your financial model will help you optimize your business and avoid problems as you grow. It will be your roadmap to success.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 8

On the 8th Day of Christmas Caruso Gave to me – 8 Questions to Ask Yourself before Buying a House!

Is it time to buy a home? The right of home ownership is an integral part of the American dream but thankfully, does not have to remain merely a dream. Like most dreams, desire is important and is the first ingredient. If you have the desire to own a home, you have already satisfied the most important step to home ownership.

Because your home is a financial asset, the desire for equity appreciation over time is certainly part of the dream. Besides gaining equity during some real estate cycles, pride of home ownership and financial security result from buying a house. Home ownership dates back to early American heritage. Our constitution providing freedom for home ownership strengthens our country and makes us proud.

Try to set aside the discomfort of applying for a mortgage since your home purchase is most likely based on obtaining financing. Let’s figure out if buying a house is right for you by reviewing some basic items.

#1 How much money you make is first on the list. Income should be consistent and dependable. A steady income refers to your income’s consistency. The more consistent your income the better! The reliability of your income mostly refers to its predictability. What is the likelihood of your income continuing into the future?

#2 We all understand that your job supplies the money. So the second question to determining if you are prepared to buy a home is related to job history. You’ll move quickly past the employment issue if you have been in the same line of work for over two years.

#3 How you handle debt is extremely important to your financial health and is the third question to address if you are preparing to buy a home. Paying your bills before they are late will get you further toward your goal of home loan approval than anything else. Make a conscious decision today to begin paying your obligations timely. Going past the due dates of your bills damages your credit rating but you can alter this behavior today.

#4 The amount of money owed is the fourth consideration for home buyers. Bluntly expressed, are you over your head in credit card debt? Some people have large car payments plus high balances on credit cards. Other debts may include boat and recreation vehicles, installment payments for jewelry, furniture, and other items. Credit is easy to get but when qualifying to buy a house the volume of debt can obstruct your ability to get the house you dream about.

#5 In addition to examining your total debt; are you saving for a down payment? For those who have saved for the cost of buying a home including a down payment, they are a step ahead. It is never too late to begin a gradual savings plan toward a buying a house.

#6 Does the cost of owning a home compared with renting make sense to you? You should be able to determine the differences between owning your own home to renting a home. If you don’t understand the difference, we need to start from the beginning again.



#7 Does owning your first home excite you or lead you to stress? Of course finding the perfect home for you is going to be stressful. However if the price of buying a new home is taking over and causing you anxiety & you’re losing sleep, maybe it is not time to buy a house. You want to be make sure you are in the right frame of mind when looking to buy a home because you don’t want to do something you will regret in the end.



#8. Can you afford to make monthly payments plus the additional cost related to owning a home? Owning a home also includes expenses such as liability and fire insurance, real estate taxes, roofs, furnaces and water heaters.



Don’t allow doubt to extinguish your hopes of home ownership by taking the next step. Now is the best time to contact a home loan lender and begin the application process. Understanding your options will increase your opportunity of home ownership. A reputable and experienced mortgage lender can help you zero in on the most important issues that you may need to address.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 7

On the 7th Day of Christmas Caruso Gave to Me –

7 Social Media Tips for Real Estate Agents!



If you are a real estate agent, then understanding how to use social media to draw in business is not difficult. There is a whole world full of ways to get your name out and among people that may become a potential customer and bring you their business. Let’s discuss the seven social media tips for agents.

Tip #1: Beneficial Real Estate Sites: You can use a social media site set up exclusively for real estate professionals like Active Rain, to help aid you in connecting with people that are local and within your community. Sites like this one is geared towards you particular field of Real Estate and networking.

Tip #2: Facebook How To’s: Register and use a site such as Facebook. This site is growing by leaps and bounds on a daily basis. This site is growing everyday at an astounding pace and professionals in any field are into keeping up with one another and their clients within the network. The site also allows for agents to become close to and develop long lasting business relationships, as well as making contacts that may become a potential customer. You can also use their ads to help grab the attention of your audience.

Tip #3: Keeping an Updated Profile: Real Estate agents need to check out LinkedIn. This site lets you develop long lasting relationships with many other Real Estate business and professionals just like you. You can sign up for free on their site. Take extra care with filling out your profile when registering, as the keywords and information you list to describe yourself, will allow others to find you better. Reach out across the web!

Tip #4: Twitter for Business Connections: Sign up with Twitter. Another site to stay connected to people, yet a bit different from others. Twitter uses a posting platform, a sort of mini-blog if you will to stay connected or make connections. This site will allow you to follow others and others can keep up by following you. Make sure you create interesting and informative posts for your followers.

Tip #5: Using Real Estate Networking Sites: Signing up with WannaNetwork will be tip number five. This site allows you to blog, use a forum to ask and answer questions, find groups and Real Estate professionals. This site is everything Real Estate community related. It is site with a community platform that is ideal for making connections, keeping up with buyer and seller information as well.

Tip #6: Letting Your Audience Get To Know You: Use YouTube to get your message out and help people find you. You can post webinars that are informative, helpful and vital to your audience. Also creating videos telling the world about what you do. Use keywords wisely in the title of your webinar or video, so people who are interested can easily find you.

Tip #7: Creating Your Own Real Estate Forum on Your Website: If you have your own website, you can network and create your own strategies through use of a forum on your website. It is a really great way to exchange links that may help you grab potential customers.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 6

On the 6th Day of Christmas, Caruso gave to me ~ 6 Holiday Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe!
If your pets are anything like mine, the holidays are a festive time with a house full of goodies – from the edible to the not-so edible. To help keep your pets safe from holiday mayhem, I've put together some tips with help from the Humane Society of the U.S.

· Gate off the tree or arrange ornaments up higher on the tree: Keep holiday decorations away from pets. Tinsel, bows, ribbons and wrapping paper can be tempting chew toys for pets but can damage their digestive systems. Remember to keep tree ornaments out of your pet's reach.

· Create a safety zone: Provide your pet with a quiet, out-of-the-way room during holiday parties. Though some pets may enjoy socializing opportunities, others will be overwhelmed by the excitement of a party

· Hide the candy: As you enjoy your See's Candies and other holiday treats, avoid sharing them with the dog and cat. Chocolate can be hazardous, especially in smaller dogs with less body mass. Also watch out for Xylitol, a common sweetener. Individually-wrapped candies are double trouble as some pets might eat both the candy and the wrapper.

· What not to serve: Avoid the urge to give pets table scraps, especially bones. Cooked bones easily splinter and can cause serious health problems or choking. Beware of spicy and fatty fried foods. This can cause indigestion or gastrointestinal problems.

· To travel or not? Trips to family and friends be sure to contact them in advance to find out if your pet is welcome. To avoid stressful situations consider hiring your pet's favorite sitter, while you're making the holiday rounds.

· Fire, fire! Don't leave candles unattended. Pets can accidentally knock them over, spill wax or start a fire.

· Don’t forget about your feathery friends: Some birds have been known to pick and nibble at electric chords, ornaments, food items and other non edible items when they are stressed, which can cause problems or even death.



In our household, the pets are always welcome to partake in the holiday festivities. We are quick, however, to use gates to keep the dogs from family and guests at the dinner table, and treats are given conservatively in the form of a piece of dry beef or raw carrots.

On Christmas morning there are gifts for every furry family member: catnip contraptions for the felines and new squeaky toys for the dogs. I especially love how the wrapping paper becomes the biggest hit of all.

No matter how big or small your holiday festivities are this year, take a minute or two to consider the fate of your non-speaking family members. They can't tell you they're hurting, so get ahead of potential problems and avoid them from the start.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle! Think Green…



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 5

On the 5th Day of Christmas Caruso Sent to Me – 5 Fundamentals of Real Estate Marketing.



Real estate marketing is based on fundamentals which are often overlooked because real estate sales are considered by many people to be sales work. It is actually marketing because the customer cannot be sold until the real estate agency understands the customer, and what the customer wants.

1. The first Fundamental is Research. Effective marketing requires thorough research, and it is difficult to do too much research. Research is the first and most important of the fundamentals because it is the beginning of knowledge. You cannot advertise or create a web site to attract clients without knowing everything about your audience. It would not be practical to market a property to people earning $25 per hour if $50 per hour would be required to pay for it. Knowing what the market is intended to generate is critical to finding the people who will respond to the marketing. Marketing your agency to the people you want to attract as sellers and buyers is nearly an art. Professional web site development help can be invaluable.

2. Fundamentals of Focus. Focus and consistency result in success. Focus on your target clients and do not lose sight of their objectives. Focus on the learning process no matter how long you have been marketing real estate. There is always something to learn about your business, services, customer preferences, sales techniques, and the competition that will help your marketing efforts. New ideas and strategies are being developed every day, and there is something new to be learned every day. The business does not stand still. Competition requires advancement in every aspect of the business.

3. Give Free Advice. Customers appreciate good free advice or tips that will help them. Make yourself the person that customers consider a steady resource. Make yourself an indispensable advisor. New and repeat customers will be profit making customers. Often, giving people advice about potential governmental actions that might affect some property values or usage will always be appreciated.

4. Be Predictable. People are always looking at you for the quality of help that you might provide them. Honesty, promptness, keeping your word, delivering when you promised, and always making sure your actions match your words are essential characteristics of a successful real estate sales person. People will talk about you regardless of what you do, so they should be able to talk about you in a positive manner. The real estate sales person’s reputation in the community is vital to their success.

5. Adaptability Is an Important Fundamental. Successful people and particularly successful real estate sales people need to be flexible and willing to change where appropriate. A sales person will fail, if they cannot follow their client’s lead and accept their personal characteristics. It’s a good idea to mirror the behavior of the client. For example, if the client is quiet and reserved, avoid loud talk or boisterous talk and laughter. Use language that reflects their language. For example, if the client describes a property as a fixer, do not try to position the property as a potential charmer. If the client is chatty decide whether they want you to listen, or whether they want you to be chatty too.




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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 4

On the 4th Day of Christmas Caruso Gave To Me – A 4 Step Real Estate Marketing Plan to Develop Effective Landing Pages.



Making effective landing pages for your real estate marketing efforts does not have to be a complicated procedure.

Although this technique is made up of two chief areas (driving traffic and also conversions), I am specifically going to focus on the latter part now. Therefore, let’s start to look at the four key steps you need to take to build a successful squeeze page.



1. First, your landing page ought to have a solid and catchy headline in order to grab your audience’s attention and then encourage them to review the rest of your body content. This specific item can make or break your real estate marketing efforts from the beginning, so you must address a primary need, challenge or desire that your target audience has. Several excellent initiators for this might be “How to…” 4 Methods to…” or even “Who else needs…” Consider utilizing red font as well as a way to make the heading truly stand out.



2. Second of all, the left hand portion ought to be made up of some form of video clip, audio track, and/or bullet point content. Our very own favorites happen to be video and bullet points. This is the portion where you should give your potential customers with benefits and not features. What key pains can you help address? Refer to these issues within your copy.



3. Then, on the right hand side of your real estate marketing landing page, you will offer some form of opt in. Even though this is the most straightforward step by far, be sure you do not make the mistake of demanding too many fields for your visitors to submit. In other words, less is far better, so we ordinarily propose only asking for a name and email address in the majority of situations. Your call to action button will need to say something along the lines of “Get Immediate Access,” “Download Now,” etc.



4. All three prior factors depend on this final component. Unless you have something for your prospects that provides real cash value, just about all your prior efforts will be lost. This is certainly not the place where you deliver PLR or some cheap report that folks can easily find just about anywhere. You will need to go above and beyond to surpass expectations and literally blow away your visitors with free, quality subject matter.



By implementing these four components, you will quickly start to rule your local market plus build strong rapport with your future clients





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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 3

On the 3rd Day of Christmas, Caruso Gave to Me – 3 Real Estate Marketing Errors!

Frequent Blunder #1: Focusing a great deal of effort on “branding.” Branding purely works for big companies like Coke and Pepsi. Despite the fact that Realtors as well as brokers think that they are really strengthening name recognition, generally branding is not very successful.

Of course, I am not alleging you should forget it totally. Even so, you have to be far more focused on obtaining a response from your own consumers when compared with spending time and funds on producing radio, newspaper or maybe billboard campaigns.

Alternatively, you’ve got to be marketing for response. You want to get the telephone ringing, people completing subscriber forms on your homepage, and also prospects ending up on your social media marketing fan pages/profiles and so on.

Greatest slip-up #2: Zero lead capture page(s). I consistently see this regularly. After customers click the “like” button on the web page, we advise these people present their own real estate homepage to obtain feedback from several other subscribers.

There is hardly any opportunity for a consumer to get in contact with their organization, or maybe if you find one, it is so hard to discover that hardly anybody will take time to find it. Therefore, you have to make your lead capture sizeable, vivid and easy to find so that when an individual visits your blog, they may end up being a lead in your database.

Or should you focus on high-end customers then express something similar to, “Fill out your email address to acquire our luxury home “best buy” list each and every week.” That’s the way you capture leads.

Greatest slip-up #3: The last thing is simply not tracing your website figures. Anytime anyone chooses to discuss their site with us we’ll ask, “How much traffic as well as how many qualified prospects has your website generated over the last 7 days, 4 weeks, or five months?”

In most cases the answer will be, “I do not know” or “I have no idea!” You need to be aware of your numbers. It is unwise to be thoughtlessly wasting time and funds without knowing what sort of returns those attempts are generating.

Should you ask us, “How many leads did you produce over the last day, 7 days, or 4 weeks,” in minutes we would be prepared to inform you the number of leads as well as traffic we received, the conversion rates, plus the expenses for each new buyer.

I’m not saying this in order to boast, but to stress the importance of this ingredient. Otherwise, you would have no concept where you should dedicate your hard earned money and time. Thus you have to record your numbers, end of story.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's 12 Days of Christmas ~ Day 1

On the 1st day of Christmas, Caruso gave to me 1 Christmas Green tip...



Christmas tree collection will begin on Monday, December 26th for a two week period through January 6th. If your tree is 6’ tall please cut it in half and place at the curb on your regular collection day. You may also place small trees inside you green waste cart (if you have one). Christmas trees are organic waste, which means they can be composted, mulched or even converted into fuel. A tree is only organic if it’s stripped down to its original form, which means removing all the lights, ornaments and tinsel. The “flocked” tree which is sprayed with artificial snow for a more “wintery” feel is not compostable. Flocking your tree pretty much guarantees that it will be land filled and not composted. You may also consider purchasing an artificial tree with Christmas tree flocking and reuse the tree year after year. Consider your options while you’re dreaming of a white Christmas.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO* Closed Sales Report ~ November

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…

The San Juan Capistrano Closed Sales Report for NOVEMBER:

The SJC Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 15 listings closed escrow
2010 28 listings closed escrow

The SJC Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 8 listings closed escrow

2010 10 listings closed escrow

The SJC Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 3 listings closed escrow

2010 4listings closed escrow

*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *SAN CLEMENTE* Closed Sales Report ~ November

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for NOVEMBER:

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 24 listings closed escrow
2010 17listings closed escrow

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 33 listings closed escrow

2010 29 listings closed escrow

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 6 listings closed escrow

2010 10listings closed escrow

*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900 (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *LAGUNA BEACH* Closed Sales Report ~ November

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…

The Laguna Beach Closed Sales Report for NOVEMBER:

The Laguna Beach Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 3 listings closed escrow
2010 1 listings closed escrow

The Laguna Beach Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 7 listings closed escrow

2010 9 listings closed escrow

The Laguna Beach Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 22 listings closed escrow
2010 17 listings closed escrow

*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900 (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *IRVINE* Closed Sales Report ~ November

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…



The Irvine Closed Sales Report for NOVEMBER:

The Irvine Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 68 listings closed escrow
2010 56 listings closed escrow

The Irvine Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 57 listings closed escrow

2010 91 listings closed escrow

The Irvine Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 13 listings closed escrow
2010 20 listings closed escrow

*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *DANA POINT* Closed Sales Report ~ November

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…



The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for NOVEMBER:

The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 13 listings closed escrow
2010 16 listings closed escrow

The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 15 listings closed escrow

2010 18 listings closed escrow

The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 6 listings closed escrow

2010 5 listings closed escrow

*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction? Information is critical to your success.


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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *Laguna Niguel* Closed Sales Report ~ November

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…

The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for NOVEMBER:

The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 41 listings closed escrow
2010 30 listings closed escrow

The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 21 listings closed escrow

2010 25 listings closed escrow

The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 4 listings closed escrow

2010 4 listings closed escrow

Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *Holiday* OC Happenings!

NORTH COUNTY





ANAHEIM

TOMORROW Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 10am-7pm is the annual Nutcracker Festival! The Holiday Street Fair held at the Center Street Promenade. The celebration includes a tree lighting ceremony, snow area, free craft activities and train rides for children, entertainment, food and a visit from some special guests. The event is sponsored by the Downtown Anaheim Merchants Association, the Nutcracker Holiday Committee, the City of Anaheim and the Anaheim Community Foundation. For more information you can call 714-956-3586.

BREA

Coming up Thursday, December 8, 2011 at 6:30pm is the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Light up your holiday season as the Brea Civic & Cultural Center turns on the lights for its holiday tree at the traditional Tree Lighting ceremony. The front steps of the Civic & Cultural Center are the setting for festivities, which include musical performances and the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. KOST 103.5 will be broadcasting live holiday music and giving away prizes before and after the ceremony. Musical performances include the Country Hills Cougar Choir, The Singing Pastors and The Darden Family. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served and there will also be optional photos with Santa for only $5 for a 5x7. For more information you can call (714) 990-7771.



BUENA PARK

TOMORROW Saturday, December 3, 2011 is the annual Candy Caneland & Craft Faire! A community holiday carnival that includes food and game booths sponsored by local non-profit groups, entertainment, petting zoo, a “real snow” hill, Santa and more! This annual carnival attracts several thousand people each year. For more information you can call (714) 236-3860.

CYPRESS

Coming up Friday, December 16, 2011 from 11am-12:30pm is the annual Holiday Celebration! Get in the holiday spirit and celebrate with musical entertainment by Global Affair, fun and a visit from Santa. Tickets are $5.00 per person and are available at the reception desk until sold out. Tickets include lunch and festivities. Souvenir photos are available for $1.00

FULLERTON

TOMORROW Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 12-5:30 pm is the Winter Market and Tree Lighting. Come enjoy the entertainment, take free pictures with Santa from 12 to 4 p.m., grab a bite to eat, do some holiday shopping, visit the beer and wine garden, and be a part of the tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. Free parking is available in surrounding streets and parking structures. Craft vendors, food vendors, businesses, non-profits and commercial vendors are invited to participate as vendors. ALSO coming up December 31, 2011 from 7pm- midnight is the First Night in Fullerton. Check out the fun at First Night, the City of Fullerton's annual alcohol-free New Year’s Eve celebration of the arts. The event is FREE and includes a full line-up of live entertainment and activities. The event primarily takes place at varying locations between Harbor Blvd. on the west and Pomona Ave. on the east in historic downtown Fullerton.

GARDEN GROVE

Coming up December 6, 2011 from 6:30-8:30 is the annual Tree Lighting Celebration! Kick-off the season with neighbors, friends, and family at the Annual Tree Lighting Celebration. This is a family-friendly holiday event at the Village Green/Clock Tower on the corner of Euclid and Main. For more information you can call (714) 741-5280. ALSO Winterfest 2011 is coming up! Atlantis Play Center is transformed into a frosty fantasyland for the Family WinterFest. Activities include the popular snow hill, holiday arts and crafts, bounce houses, and trips around the park on the Polar Express train. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special visit and stop for photos. Food will be available for purchase. For more information you can call (714) 741-5200.
LA HABRA

Nothing to report

LA PALMA

Coming up Wednesday, December 7, 2011 is the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony! Crafts & visits with Santa start at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. & the ceremony is from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Join your friends and family for this annual holiday favorite. Every year this event brings the La Palma community together to ring in the holiday season! Enjoy the musical talents from our local schools and join in during the Community Carol Sing Along. Join Santa and his elves in the activities area before the event. This area features crafts, an opportunity to write a letter to Santa, and of course, the young and young-at-heart won’t want to miss an early visit from Santa Claus! For more information you can call (714) 690-3350.

PLACENTIA

Nothing to report

STANTON
Nothing to report
WESTMINSTER

Coming up is The Rose Theater Christmas Concert. Sacred and Secular Songs of the Season performed by Huntington Beach Concert Band! Enjoy beautiful holiday music favorites for all ages - a fine Huntington Beach tradition! For more information you can call 714-793-1150.

YORBA LINDA

Nothing to report

CENTRAL COUNTY



COSTA MESA

NOW through December 24, 2011 presented by South Coast Repertory is A Christmas Carol. Nineteenth-century London comes to life when your family joins the SCR family for the holidays. Recapture the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas with this timeless Dickens classic and all your favorite characters—Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come—and, as always, Hal Landon Jr. as everyone's favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge. For more information you can call (714) 708-5555.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

TOMORROWSaturday, December 3, 2011 from 4:30pm-8:30pm is the annual 2011 Tree Lighting Ceremony (Fountain Valley Recreation Center and Sports Park!). The event will feature live entertainment, pictures with Santa, games, crafts, cookie decorating, food vendors, a firework show, and much more! For more information you can call 714-839-8611.

HUNTINGTON BEACH

December 16-23, 2011 is the annual Cruise of Lights! Take a narrated cruise through the waterways of Huntington Harbour to see the holiday lighted homes and decorations in this annual event. Park in the Huntington Harbour Mall lot (corner of Algonquin and Saybrook) and get on the designated buses that travel a short distance to the boat launch area. For advanced ticket purchase you can call (714) 840-7542. Also coming December 16 - 24, 2011 is the annual Nutcracker Ballet! This traditional, delightful Christmas ballet is presented in its original, full-length version for your holiday enjoyment. The event takes place at the Golden West College Main stage Theater. For more information you can call 714-895-8150.

IRVINE

TOMORROW Saturday, December 3, 2011 is the Annual Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption Fair! This fun event will give Orange County families the opportunity to make a homeless animal part of their loving family - just in time for the holidays! This event will feature adoptable homeless animals from shelters all over California, vendors and services for attendees and their pets, a silent auction and opportunity drawing, low-cost microchips, Ask the Vet and Ask the Trainer advice, and lunch, snacks, baked goods and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission costs $1 and free parking will be available at the parking structure along Oak Canyon Road and handicapped parking will be available in the IACC’s parking lot. For more information you can call (949) 854-4646. ALSO coming up Saturday, December 10, 2011 from 11am-2pm is the LIFE Church Christmas Community Block Party!! Come by LIFE Church for an amazing FREE, fun-filled family event on December 10th from 11-2. From crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, sweet treats, bounce house and family pictures to caroling, even SNOW and meet Santa himself! We want to share this holiday season with our church family and the community! So come by, bring your friends and enjoy LIFE Church for a Christmas Community Block Party! Rain or shine! Indoor facilities available! For more information, contact Diana Duke dduke10@cox.net. And NOW OPEN the Ice Rink at the Spectrum! Enjoy outdoor skating rink at the Irvine Spectrum. Located right next to the Giant Wheel Court, adjacent to Nordstrom and Macy's. For more information you can call 949-456-6937. LOS ALAMITOS

Nothing to report

NEWPORT BEACH

Coming up Saturday, December 10, 2011 from 10 am - 11:30 am is the Grandkids Hike. Join ‘Inside the Outdoors’ for a morning with nature designed especially for toddlers and their grandparents! Touch the trees, smell the sages, watch and listen for wildlife. Everyone will use all of their senses to explore nature. Cost: $5 per person/ $25 per family* Advance registration required. For more information you can call (714) 708-3885.

ORANGE

December 2-4, 9-11, & 15-23, is the 15th Annual Christmas Train to Meet Santa Claus. Take an enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet and have your picture taken with Santa Claus. In addition to riding the Irvine Park Railroad, activities include story time with Mrs. Claus, Christmas cookie decorating, a Santa Claus moon bounce, Christmas coloring corner, carnival games, picture stands and more. Hot food and snacks are available for purchase. The cost to ride the Christmas Train is $8.00 per person. Children younger than 24 months ride free. Prices for activities vary. For directions, costs and additional information or to purchase tickets, visit us online at www.irvineparkrailroad.com or you can call (714) 997-3968. ALSO Sunday, December 4, 2011 from 3:30 - 7 pm is the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony & Candlelight Choir Processional! Tree Lighting and Candlelight Procession includes holiday music. Local non-profit groups also provide delicious food and youth activities for a nominal charge. For more information you can call the Special Events Hotline at 714-744-7278. AND coming up Saturday, December 10, 2011 at 7pm, Golden West Pops Christmas Concert - 'Twas the Night Before'! Come snuggle up with the Golden West Pops while we musically celebrate that magical "night before...." It will be a great night of nostalgia and fun in the comfort of the beautiful auditorium at the Sisters of Saint Joseph Motherhouse in Orange, California. This is a perfect evening for the whole family. Admission: $10.00.





SANTA ANA

Next weekend, December 11, 2011 from 12-4pm is the annual Irish Holiday Festival. The holiday season sparkles with Irish culture in a day filled with music, storytelling, dance, art, hand-made Irish quilts and stockings, Irish Christmas cakes, pudding and more! Held in our lovely outdoor Key Courtyard, this festive celebration will allow you shop for the holidays from unique vendors who specialize in quality handcrafted goods. Member $10 / Non-member $15/ Festival admission is free. For more information you can call (714) 567-3679. ALSO NOW through January 1, 2012 the Discovery Science Center Presents: Science of Gingerbread. Inside the kitchen, much more is going on than pouring and mixing – it’s science at work! Discovery Science Center’s holiday festival is filled with festive activities designed to bring families together this holiday season. Don’t miss your chance to meet Santa Claus and decorate your own holiday cookies on select dates! Hands-On Holiday Fun: Hands-on kitchen science activities, Cookie decorating on select dates, Santa Claus visits on select dates, Award winning gingerbread display. For more information you can call 714-542-2823.

SEAL BEACH

TONIGHT December 2, 2011 is the Annual Holiday Parade from 7 - 10 pm. This is the 33rd Annual Christmas Parade of Seal Beach is along Main Street. There are bands representing schools from Marina, Ocean View, Los Alamitos and more. Boy Scouts and Girls Scout Troops from all over the area will be represented. The parade begins promptly at 7:00 pm along Main Street starting at Ocean Avenue and proceeding to PCH. Do some Christmas shopping and have cocktails and/or dinner before and after the parade. For more information you can call 562-799-0179.

TUSTIN

December 9, 2011 from 6-8pm is the annual Tree Lighting! The City of Tustin Parks and Recreation Department invites you to join in the holiday fun as they celebrate their Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony. The evening will include photos with Santa and performances by Community Groups! For more information you can call 714-573-3326. ALSO coming up December 9-10, 2011 is the annual Holiday Boutique! The Holiday Boutique will be open for your holiday shopping needs located at Clifton C. Miller Community Center (City Hall) - 300 Centennial Way.



VILLA PARK

Sunday, December 11, 2011 is the Great Inland Boat Parade and Holiday Celebration! This fun filled event consists of a parade of Christmas decorated land yachts (anything from a small boat pulled by a car to a horse wagon!) followed by the annual tree lighting ceremony. The parade will begins at Villa Park High School at 18042 Taft Ave., ending about 6:30 p.m. in the Villa Park Shopping Center on Santiago Boulevard, where holiday festivities will continue. For more information you can call 714-998-1500.



South County



ALISO VIEJO

TOMORROW Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. is the annual Holiday Fun at Center Stage Studio! Unique holiday gift boutique, bake sale and family fun including photos with Santa, crafts for the kids, and face painting. Our Boutique will feature high-end vendors such as Pampered Chef, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Stella Dot bags & jewelry, Gigi Hill Bags, hand-made gifts, gourmet Olive Oil, Creative Memories, Arbonne, apparel, gift items and much more! Proceeds to support Center Stage Studio, a children's theater and dance education program. There is free admission and parking. Call #949.305.9758 for further information.



DANA POINT

Coming up December 9-10 & December 16-17, 2011 starting at 7:30pm by the Water's Edge is the Annual Boat Parade of Lights! Boaters from all around Orange County decorate their boats and vie for awards. You can view the parade free from anywhere in the Harbor, or make reservations at one of our restaurants to view it from a cozy and warm spot. Come on down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. ** Dana Wharf Sportfishing offers boat rides so you too can experience the fun of actually riding on a boat and joining in the parade. Reservations can be made at www.danawharf.com. Call and make your reservations at (949) 496-5794. For more information or a boat or sponsor entry form call THE Harbor Info line at (949) 923-2255. Also coming up Saturday, December 10, 2011 from 12-7pm is the annual Winter Festival. The event includes Cookie Decorating, Santa’s Reindeer, Holiday Craft Fair, Carnival Games, Children’s Petting Zoo, Real Snow Play Area, Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Movie in the park. For more information you can call (949) 248-3530

LAGUNA HILLS

NOW through December 31, 2011 from 5pm-midnight located at 25473 Nellie Gail Road is the Orange County Christmas Lights. This free event is hosted nightly from 5pm to midnight from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. Christmas Lights and Home Decorating show featuring over 100,000 lights dancing to festive music plus spectacular Department 56 snow village displays with hundreds of houses and giant hand sculpted mountains. Come for free apple cider and brownies while you enjoy the entertainment and tour our winter wonderland.

LADERA RANCH

Nothing to report

LAGUNA BEACH

NOW through December 11, 2011 is the annual Sawdust Winter Fantasy! This unique fair offers shoppers the opportunity to purchase unique artisan crafts from various local artists. Includes live entertainment, hands-on art projects and picture-perfect moments, the Sawdust Art Festival's Winter Fantasy will become your family's holiday tradition. General Admission: $6.00 Adults, $3.00 children 6-12, $9.00 Season pass. For more information you can call 949-494-3030.

read moreLAGUNA NIGUEL

It’s already that time again! Coming up December 10, 2011 at 10:00am is the annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade! The theme for the 2011 parade - 'Magical Holidays' and Earvin "Magic" Johnson as the Grand Marshal! Event features marching ands, equestrian units, classic auto clubs, youth groups, civic groups, schools, local dignitaries and, of course, Santa.

LAKE FOREST

Nothing to report

MISSION VIEJO

Nothing to report

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Nothing to report





SAN CLEMENTE

Coming up Saturday, December 17, 2011 from 10-11am is the FAM Christmas Toy Drive & Annual Adopt-A-Family Gift Program. Join the family Assistance Ministries for this wonderful Christmas event. Presents will be handed out to needy children of the community and lunch will be served. If you are interested in donating gifts please call the Family Assistance Ministries at 492-8477

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

TOMORROW Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 4-9pm Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Join the City of San Juan Capistrano as we begin the holiday season with the annual "Tree Lighting Ceremony" activities at Historic Town Center Park, 31852 El Camino Real Street at 4 pm. The event includes a stage performance featuring students from the Musical Theater University of Laguna Beach. San Juan Hills and Capistrano Valley High School's orchestras will provide the preprogram entertainment. The official lighting of the Christmas Tree takes place at 5:45 p.m. after which many other events and activities will take place throughout the downtown area. Mission San Juan welcomes visitors for a nominal fee and will have lots of fun things to do inside the Mission grounds. ZOOMARS will have a petting zoo, tractor pull, hay ride, train ride, as well as other activities, also for a nominal fee. A "free" train ride will take place at Los Rios Park compliments of the City of San Juan Capistrano. Face painting, strolling entertainment, and crafts will be featured at various locations throughout downtown. For more information you can call
949-493-5911.









*As seen in orangecounty.net & ocregister.com



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Search & Email VS Social Media

When it comes to digital marketing channels, social media seems to capture more of the spotlight than search and email. Yes, less is spent on social, but social is far more exciting, which explains why marketers love talking and writing about social.





Few will dispute the importance of social media today, but a survey I came across that was conducted this year, is a reminder of why marketers shouldn't let social become too big a distraction.





According to the study, 92% of internet users in theUnited Statesuse search engines and send email. The number using social networking services is a little bit more than half at 65%.





That 65% figure isn't unimpressive, particularly when one considers that less than five years ago, less than 20% of adult internet users in theU.S.were tweeting and liking. But when it comes to proven, sustained usage, social media can't yet hold a candle to search and email.





The most impressive thing about search and email: usage is remarkably consistent across demographic and socioeconomic categories. Consider the following:





•96% of those ages 18 through 29 use search engines. On the opposite end of the spectrum, 87% of those 65 and older use search engines too.




•90% of those making under $30,000/year use search engines; that's not substantially less than the 98% usage rate seen amongst those making $75,000/year and up.




•94% of internet users in the 18-29 category use email while 87% of those in the 65+ group use email.



All told, well over half ofU.S.internet users (59%) use search engines on a daily basis, and an even higher percentage (61%) use email daily.





For marketers, the implication is clear: if you want to reach consumers through digital channels, you can not and should not forget about search and email. Simply put, they're the two most reliable channels through which to communicate with consumers.





The fact that social media isn't as widely used as search and email doesn't, of course, mean that investments in social aren't wise, because I do strongly suggest using all the resources you can. But when it comes to relative importance, marketers would do well to remember that the sexiest digital channels aren't always the most prolific or productive channels.









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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's Pawfect Holiday Gift!

Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption Fair!



This Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm at The Irvine Animal Care Center ( 6443 Oak Canyon Rd) will be the Annual Holiday Adoption Pet Fair! There will be over 500 dogs, cats, & rabbits available for adoption! There are also a lot of purebreds, puppies & kittens as well. Plus pet vendors, food & a silent auction to benefit homeless animals. Please consider adding a homeless animal to your family this holiday season. Or maybe someone who is having a tough year could use some goodness in their life. Having a pet is happiness unlike any other. I promise you, you won’t regret it! For more information on the event or to donate you can call 949-724-7740.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's Challenge!

The end of 2011 is near. Are you ready for next year? What you have done recently to improve your business for the upcoming year?

I sometimes wonder what people who read various blog posts, do with the information. What do you do with it? Is there one piece of great information you’ve come across lately that you’ve acted on?

My guess is your answer would be no, and why not? Based on discussions I have with real estate professionals in the past, it seems that most good ideas are too much trouble. I am so use to hearing; “Sure, it sounds like a good idea, but I just don’t have time to try it.”

So, Here’s the Challenge!
Don’t make yourself feel informed by taking in a lot of information from the resources available to you, and then do nothing.

Try this;

1.When you read about real estate marketing ideas, make a list of the ones that sound reasonable. Don’t make a big task out of this. Open a Word document while you’re making your online rounds. Then, just copy the URL for the page containing the intriguing idea and paste it into the Word document.
2.At the end of the month, review and prioritize that list in the Word document.
3.PICK OUT ONE THING THAT YOU WILL TRY THE FOLLOWING MONTH!
4.During the following month, actually try the idea out.
5.Review the results you got from the trial.
1.If you think you need more insight, keep that idea in motion.
2.If you think it’s really a dud, forget it.
3.If you think there is potential, aggressively integrate the idea into your routine.


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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900 (949) 753-7900

Caruso's Thanksgiving Poem!

TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING,
BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP.
I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS,
I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP.

THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED -
THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE,
BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION
WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT.
TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION,
THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION.
SO, I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR,
AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIES GALORE.
GOBBLED UP TURKEY AND BUTTERED POTATOES,
PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES.

I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND,
'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THE GROUND.
I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, FLOATING INTO THE SKY,
WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE.
BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES....
HAPPY EATING TO ALL - PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE.

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY,
MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP.
MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP.
MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS.
MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,
MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS!!

Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!!!



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso Says Oil & Water Don’t Mix...

Help keep holiday grease out of the sewer system. Pouring cooking grease down the drain is the number one cause of sewage spills because it can clog your sewer line and damage the District’s sewer system and wastewater pumping stations.



With all of the extra cooking that comes with the holidays, we usually see an increase in the number problems within the sewer system. As you prepare those turkeys, hams and roasts, here are a few tips to keep excess holiday cooking grease out of the pipes:



*Never pour grease down the drain, toilet or garbage disposal

*Pour cooking grease into a can and refrigerate or freeze until solid, then dispose of it in a trash can

*Always wipe excess grease from pots, pans, dishes and utensils with a paper towel before washing



These simple steps will help keep excess holiday cooking grease out of the pipes and help prevent sewage spills.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso Never Sleeps ~ Change in Seasons means Change in...

Fall is now officially in full swing and that means its time to adjust the way we use water. Most plants go dormant in fall and winter and require far less water than in spring and summer when they are active. So even as warm weather continues, now is the time to save water and money by reducing your irrigation.



The months of October, November and December are when Southern California typically waste most water. That is because plants require roughly 70 percent less water during this period, but many mistake the seemingly summertime weather as a call to continue their summertime watering schedules. Over watering is common in fall not just because of the warm weather, but also because many plants will look wilted or brown as they enter their dormancy. But beware; dormant plants should not be over watered.



Adjusting your water use with the seasons is a great way to ensure you stay within the personalized water budget for your property. Before watering your lawn or plants this fall, dig a hold two to three inches deep and check for moisture. If the soil is damp, turn off your sprinklers or put away your hose. Continue to check every few days until you find dry soil. Frequently checking soil will help you reset your sprinkler schedule. As the rains start the frequency should be changed again as Mother Nature will be doing the bulk of the watering for you. You can also replace your standard sprinkler timer with a smart timer that automatically adjusts your watering schedule with changing weather conditions.







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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's Holiday Safety Tips!

Fall has arrived and the holidays are approaching quickly. Throughout all the credit card usage, gifts, internet shopping and vacations, many people become susceptible to being victims of crime. Taking preventing measures will help lead you through the holiday season without jeopardizing your home and financial security.



Shopping will increase within the next few months as we prepare for gifts, dinner and festivities. Many people try and do all of their shopping in one day, and may spend hours in the same location. Please remember to always lock your vehicle and never leave any items in plain sight. If you will be doing a lot of shopping in one day, keep all of your bags with you until you are ready to drive home. Vehicle burglaries occur during this season because many people return to their vehicles to drop off the gifts they have purchased and go back into the store for more shopping, leaving their vehicles and gifts unattended. Do not give a burglar an opportunity to break in to your vehicle. When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be aware of your surroundings.



Many Christmas trees are decorated beautifully and showcased in the front window of a home. It is widely known that where this is a Christmas tree, there will be presents underneath it. Try not to display your presents under the tree until you are ready to celebrate the holiday. Close your blinds while you are away from home and reinforce all of your window and sliding doors with additional locks. If you will be going on vacation, try to make your house look “lived in”. Have a trusted neighbor pick up your newspaper and mail everyday. Place timers on different lamps, television and radios throughout the house at different days & ties to give the illusion of an occupied home. Also, take advantage of the free vacation checks offered by your local Police Service.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso Never Sleeps ~ Purple Fountain Grass

Did you know there is a California-Friendly Plant of the month? Well there is and this month it is the Purple Fountain Grass. Purple fountain grass is a great way to add some colorful fun to your California-Friendly garden this fall season. This popular perennial resembles a bronzed fox tail and grows great in both pots and in gardens. It requires full sun and a little water to get started, and then thrives in dry soil or gravel beads.



Purple fountain grass is often preferred over other fountain grass varieties because it doesn’t drop seeds, which makes it easier to prune and shape into groupings. Purple fountain grass will flourish through the fall, but will go dormant during the winter and spring months, only to reappear just in time to show off for the next summer.



Fast Facts:

Season: Summer-Fall

Size: 4-5ft tall & wide

Color: Purple

Water: Low

Sun: Full Sun



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso is Celebrating!

TODAY is America Recycles Day!! American Recycles Day is the ONLY nationally recognized day dedicated to the promotion of recycling programs in the United Sates. Michael Caruso is Celebrating, are you?!



To celebrate America Recycles Day, CR&R Environmental Services together with the Cities of San Clemente, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Rancho Santa Margarita, & Laguna Hills will distribute 30lb bags of processed green waste (compost) to their valued costumers. It's their way of thanking the community for supporting recycling programs in our communities.



Due to the high demand and limited supply, we want to assure that each person who waits in line receives at least two bags of compost so please remember that we will distribute only 2 bags per a person with a coupon. We encourage you to carpool with your neighbors. The event takes place on November 19, 2011 from 7:30-10:00am (while supplies last) at the City of San Juan Capistrano City Hall



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso Never Sleeps ~ Prepare for a Rainy Day

It’s raining here today in the OC, so I thought today would be the perfect day to talk about rain related issues! Many rain-related claims are due to crashes; typically, the vehicle’s condition and driver behavior are contributing factors. Preparing your vehicle and yourself are the best ways to stay safe on the road during the rainy months.



Check your wiper blades. Worm wiper blades can compromise your ability to see the road clearly. Wiper blades usually work effectively for a year at most & sometimes even less. Excessive heat and exposure to the sun’s rays can cause them to crack, tear & harden. If the blades chatter or leave streaks as they move across your windshield, it’s time to get a new set. While you’re checking the blades, fill your windshield washer reservoir and check to see that your heater and defroster are working properly, so you can keep the windshield nice and clear.



Check your tire tread and pressure. Worn ties are more likely to lose contact with the road in a rainstorm, which can cause a loss of steering or braking control. So be sure to properly inflate your tires to ensure that you’ll have the best possible traction.



Make sure your headlights and brake lights are working. Always use your headlights in rainy weather; they improve visibility and they help other drivers see you better. California law requires that your headlights be on when your wipers are operating constantly. The law also requires that you have functioning brake lights, which are especially important in a storm to warn other drivers that you’re slowing down or stopping.



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso Explains 11-11-11

11-11-11. Its here. The day that everyone around the world has been talking about since the year became 2011. But what does it actually mean? And what's in store for us? I did some investigating and uncovered some interesting facts relating to 11-11-11.



11/11/11: Veterans Day

World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” - officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France.

However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”



11/11/11: Historical

The Great Blue Norther of 11/11/11:

"One-hundred years ago, November 11th, 1911: The Great Blue Norther descended upon America. The day started fine; there were even record highs for that time of year. Then it all changed; temperatures began to drop. Within the space of ten minute: the temperature dropped 40 to 50 degrees; by midnight a 66 degree temperature drop was recorded. There were dust storms, thunderstorms, tornado's, and blizzards. Over 300 deaths were reported."

In the interests of full disclosure: NOAA.gov reports that sudden 50 degree temperature drops, though unusual, are not that rare.

The Great Blue Norther acquired its name not from the extreme temperature changes, but from the accompanying weather phenomena.



11/11/11: Singularity Summary

Most predictions and opinions concerning 11/11/11 are based on or rooted in its mathematical uniqueness as a number.

11*11*11: There are three possible scenarios:

1. Something good happens— There is absolutely no scientific basis for this belief. There are no known logical premises for this belief. The belief that something good will happen is based solely on spiritualism, faith, and/or innate optimism. This belief is not necessarily a bad thing; we don’t know everything; the probability is not zero.

2. Nothing happens— This is the most likely scenario. Just because an unusual date number sequence occurs doesn’t mean that something extraordinary will happen. Usually it’s a non-event.

3. Something bad happens— There is absolutely no scientific basis for this belief. There are no known logical premises for this belief. The belief that something bad will happen is based solely on pessimism of reality. This belief is not necessarily false; after all, things are generally/usually a mess. The probability is not zero.

Don't forget to make a wish at 11:11 am & pm!



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso Visits The Great Park!

In the beginning of October, I was invited to the Great Park in Irvine, Ca. The reason for my visit was to learn about the park and to see the benefits, as a realtor, I would partake in. Before I indulge in explaining what the Great Park has in store for us, I want to share a little background on the park.



Marine CorpsAir Station (MCAS) El Toro was created during World War II. The site was used for one of many West Coast Marines air stations. Over time, debates on how to best utilize the land divided city members and council members. Finally, in 2003, the plan to create a park in honor of the land was approved. As a result, the Great Park Corporation was created to oversee the development. The construction of The Great Park was an accomplishment for the city of Irvine and on July 14, 2007, the first attraction opened. The Great Park Balloon is a 72 foot balloon, lifted by 210,000 cubic foot of helium. This intriguing attraction can carry 25 passengers and offers a 360 degree view. If you decide to visit this attraction be prepared to reach up to 400 feet, where you can view over 40 miles of land in the southern orange county area. In 2010 another attraction was added to the park. The Great Park Carousel, features up to 15 different animals and can carry up to 36 passengers. This two minute ride reaches a speed of 4.5 miles per an hour and is a delight for children.



The Great Park is not just a center for fun attractions; it also holds art galleries and art studios. This plaza has a cultural heritage, and includes a working farm, pumpkin patch and community garden. The Great Park Farms is 100 acres and provides locally grown organic produce to the community. This farm also helps Orange County gardeners grow their own organic produce. During the fall season, the Great Park turns in to a Harvest Festival, where families and children can enjoy face painting, rides, and a variety of ripe pumpkins, ready for carving! This multi faceted park serves as a garden and attraction to the community of Orange County.







Only a select few were invited to this tour and although the information was only given to those who attended, it is in my greatest interest to share the information with you as well. Proposed in late August, was the development of homes adjacent to the park. The new project will take up 1250 acres and will consist of 4894 homes. The remaining space will be devoted to community commercial uses. This project will create 16500 new jobs, and will give the city of Irvine a 600,000 fiscal benefit each year. The company in charge of this operation will also be donating 40.5 million to the Great Park over the next 5 years. The Great Park is a historical landmark in Orange County and provides our economy with a surplus amount of benefits, financially and spiritually.







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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's *SAN CLEMENTE* Closed Sales Report ~ September

Is the market is improving or at least stabilizing!? We provide the latest market updates regularly, as well as personal consultation of market direction…



The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for SEPTEMBER:

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:

2011 23 listings closed escrow
2010 20listings closed escrow

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:

2011 43 listings closed escrow

2010 40 listings closed escrow

The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:

2011 6 listings closed escrow

2010 6listings closed escrow

*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso's OC Happenings!

NORTH COUNTY





ANAHEIM
Coming up Thanksgiving Morning, November 24, 2011 is the annual Plymouth Rock N' Run 5k! The 5k and 10k course is around the perimeter of the Yorba Regional Park, and the Santa Ana River bike trail. There will be live music throughout the event, courtesy of CSUF jazz combo music, prizes, food, and a 1k kids fun run for 12 & under. All of the funds raised by sponsors and race participants will help Reeve-Irvine research to battle spinal cord injuries and other neurological afflictions such as stroke, Alzheimer's, and multiple sclerosis.

BREA

Coming up November 18-19, 2011 is the Nutcracker Craft Boutique. Offering shoppers one-of-a-kind items perfect for the holiday season. Over the two days, 250 vendors will be on site displaying and selling beautiful handcrafted holiday gifts, decorations, food and collectibles. Shoppers can come one day or both to shop for one-of-a-kind items. Due to large numbers of shoppers, strollers cannot be accommodated at this event. Admission $2.00 with proceeds benefiting youth, teen and family programs Parking is free. For more information you can call (714) 990-7771.



BUENA PARK
TOMORROW Saturday, November 5, 2011 starting at 8am is the Easter Seals “Walk With Me” Fundraiser! This fun, family fundraising 4K walk is in support of Easter Seals. Enjoy music and games. As walkers cross the finish line, they will receive an adult 1/2 price, same day admission coupon from Knott’s Berry Farm, to enjoy the rides and attractions. For more information you can call 714.834.1111, ext 223.

CYPRESS

Saturday, November 19, 2011 is the annual Holiday Bazaar Arts & Crafts Fair from 9 am - 4 pm. Start your holiday shopping early! Featuring hand crafted items, sweet shop, holiday lunch and entertainment. Admission is free! There's also a Breakfast with Santa 8:00am-11:00am - $5.00 per person. For more information you can call 714-229-6780.

FULLERTON
Coming up Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 12-5:30 pm is the Winter Market and Tree Lighting. Come enjoy the entertainment, take free pictures with Santa from 12 to 4 p.m., grab a bite to eat, do some holiday shopping, visit the beer and wine garden, and be a part of the tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. Free parking is available in surrounding streets and parking structures. Craft vendors, food vendors, businesses, non-profits and commercial vendors are invited to participate as vendors.

GARDEN GROVE

Winterfest 2011 is coming up! Atlantis Play Center is transformed into a frosty fantasyland for the Family WinterFest. Activities include the popular snow hill, holiday arts and crafts, bounce houses, and trips around the park on the Polar Express train. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special visit and stop for photos. Food will be available for purchase. For more information you can call (714) 741-5200.

LA HABRA

Nothing to report

LA PALMA
Coming Saturday, November 12, 2011is the Annual La Palma Days! This annual tradition event has been celebrated in our community for over 25 years, encouraging residents, business partners and friends to celebrate La Palma’s community spirit. The event features Miss La Palma Pageant, Parade & Band Review, Activities, Entertainment, Cultural & Historical Activities & International Food & Product Vendors. For more information you can call 714-690-3350.

PLACENTIA

Nothing to report

STANTON
Nothing to report
WESTMINSTER

Coming up is The Rose Theater Christmas Concert. Sacred and Secular Songs of the Season performed by Huntington Beach Concert Band! Enjoy beautiful holiday music favorites for all ages - a fine Huntington Beach tradition! For more information you can call 714-793-1150.

YORBA LINDA

Sunday November 27 is the Annual Handel's Messiah community sing-along!
The audience is invited to sing along with the Master Chorus and Orchestra in the favorite Messiah choruses, which include Glory of the Lord, Thou that tellest Good Tidings, For Unto Us a Child is Born, Glory to God in the Highest, His Yoke is Easy, Behold the Lamb of God, Lift up your heads, and of course, the Hallelujah Chorus. If you are a singer, please bring your own music scores (G. Schirmer edition). Music scores are available to borrow. Scores also available for purchase for $10 (including tax) Supplies are limited. Non singers are also invited to come and enjoy the music! For more information you can call 714-996-1960.



CENTRAL COUNTY

COSTA MESA

Coming up November 17 - 18, 2011 is Disney's most acclaimed and beloved film on stage! Arts & Learning Conservatory presents: 'Beauty & the Beast. General Seating: $10, VIP: $15 & Family 4-Pack: $35. For more information you can call (714) 728-7100.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Nothing to report

HUNTINGTON BEACH

SUNDAY, November 6th is the annual Surf City Derby. The Huntington Beach Distance Derby has a new race course and a new name. The "new" Surf City Beach Derby 10 Miler AND a NEW 10K event will run on Pacific Coast Highway! Or Challenge your sand legs on the zany new 5K Beach Obstacle Course! Get Your Zany On and get dressed for the Costume Contest.

IRVINE
NOW OPEN the Ice Rink at the Spectrum! Enjoy outdoor skating rink at the Irvine Spectrum. Located right next to the Giant Wheel Court, adjacent to Nordstrom and Macy's. For more information you can call 949-456-6937.

LOS ALAMITOS

Nothing to report

NEWPORT BEACH

Coming up Saturday, December 10, 2011 from 10 am - 11:30 am is the Grandkids Hike. Join ‘Inside the Outdoors’ for a morning with nature designed especially for toddlers and their grandparents! Touch the trees, smell the sages, watch and listen for wildlife. Everyone will use all of their senses to explore nature. Cost: $5 per person/ $25 per family* Advance registration required. For more information you can call (714) 708-3885.

ORANGE

December 2-4, 9-11, & 15-23, is the 15th Annual Christmas Train to Meet Santa Claus. Take an enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet and have your picture taken with Santa Claus. In addition to riding the Irvine Park Railroad, activities include story time with Mrs. Claus, Christmas cookie decorating, a Santa Claus moon bounce, Christmas coloring corner, carnival games, picture stands and more. Hot food and snacks are available for purchase. The cost to ride the Christmas Train is $8.00 per person. Children younger than 24 months ride free. Prices for activities vary. For directions, costs and additional information or to purchase tickets, visit us online at www.irvineparkrailroad.com or you can call (714) 997-3968.

SANTA ANA

TOMORROWSaturday November 5, 2011 is the Discovery Science Center Presents: Pumpkin Launch 2011.Discovery Science Center and California State University, Fullerton, are teaming up to offer a day of hands-on science fun! The day of family-friendly activities will be hosted at Fullerton’s Titan Stadium. Free activities will include: carved-pumpkin contests (bring your own carved pumpkin), catapult contest, music & entertainment. The event is located at California State University Fullerton's Titan Field.

SEAL BEACH
Mark your calendars for the Annual Holiday Parade coming up December 2, 2011 from 7 - 10 pm. This is the 33rd Annual Christmas Parade of Seal Beach is along Main Street. There are bands representing schools from Marina, Ocean View, Los Alamitos and more. Boy Scouts and Girls Scout Troops from all over the area will be represented. The parade begins promptly at 7:00 pm along Main Street starting at Ocean Avenue and proceeding to PCH. Do some Christmas shopping and have cocktails and/or dinner before and after the parade. For more information you can call 562-799-0179.

TUSTIN

Sunday November 6, 2011 is the Dinosaur Dash! Run for Education! A fund-raiser for the Tustin Public Schools Foundation, this year you can run and ride for education! The Dinosaur Dash features 4 events: 5k and 10k timed races for all ages, a 2k non-timed “Fun Run” and the non-timed 50k bike tour. After the race, there will be entertainment, a Food Court and Expo with games, activities and more. There's fun for the whole family. For more information you can call 714-832-3060.

VILLA PARK
Sunday, December 11, 2011 is the Great Inland Boat Parade and Holiday Celebration! This fun filled event consists of a parade of Christmas decorated land yachts (anything from a small boat pulled by a car to a horse wagon!) followed by the annual tree lighting ceremony. The parade will begins at Villa Park High School at 18042 Taft Ave., ending about 6:30 p.m. in the Villa Park Shopping Center on Santiago Boulevard, where holiday festivities will continue. For more information you can call 714-998-1500.





South County

ALISO VIEJO

Nothing to report



DANA POINT
Coming up November 24th is the annual Turkey Trot! This is California's Largest Thanksgiving Day Run Event - The Dana Point Turkey Trot - One of America's Most Scenic Runs... hosted by The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Tour the beautiful beach, majestic cliffs and coves of Dana Point. Enjoy pounding surf, rugged cliffs, and cool ocean breezes as you sail through the Dana Point Marina, Doheny State Park and pass the historic tallship Pilgrim moored in Dana Point Harbor. For more information you can call the Race Hotline: 949-496-1555.

MONARCH BEACH
Coming up next weekend, Saturday, November 12, 2011 from 9 am - 3 pm is the South County Festival! The festival includes gourmet food trucks, raffles, family photos, bounce house, face painting and vendors to indulge in shopping! There will be everything from jewelry, arts/crafts, shoes, clothing, golf accessories, electronics and much more. The event is located at South Shores Church.
LADERA RANCH

Nothing to report

LAGUNA BEACH
Weekends starting November 19 through December 11, 2011 is the annual Sawdust Winter Fantasy! This unique fair offers shoppers the opportunity to purchase unique artisan crafts from various local artists. Includes live entertainment, hands-on art projects and picture-perfect moments, the Sawdust Art Festival's Winter Fantasy will become your family's holiday tradition. General Admission: $6.00 Adults, $3.00 children 6-12, $9.00 Season pass. For more information you can call 949-494-3030.

LAGUNA HILLS
Coming up Saturday, November 12, 2011 from 10 am - 2 pm is the Baby and Toddler Fair. This annual OC Baby Fair at Saddleback is geared towards new and expectant parents who are looking for the latest information on prenatal health, fitness and infant care. The entertainment-filled fair will feature over 40 exhibitors offering products and services for babies and expectant mothers and a “Nibble, Sip and Mingle Café” where local parents can meet and mingle over bunt cakes and beverages. Other activities at the fair include a Cute Baby Cover Contest, raffle and a special appearance by Santa Clause. Additionally, experts from Saddleback Memorial will be offering free individual consultations on maternity and health and wellness questions for expectant moms and new parents.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

It’s already that time again! Coming up December 10, 2011 at 10:am is the annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade! The theme for the 2011 parade - 'Magical Holidays' and Earvin "Magic" Johnson as the Grand Marshal! Event features marching ands, equestrian units, classic auto clubs, youth groups, civic groups, schools, local dignitaries and, of course, Santa.

LAKE FOREST

Nothing to report

MISSION VIEJO

TOMORROW November 5, 2011 from 9am-1pm is the Starr Ranch Sanctuary - Family Nature Workshops located in Trabuco Canyon. The staff at Starr Ranch Sanctuary, a 4000-acre nature preserve east of Dove Canyon and Coto de Caza, invites you to join us for our biannual “Family Nature Workshops.” We invite you and your family to experience first-hand the beauty of wilderness in our rapidly urbanizing county and to learn together during workshops and walks offered by our staff, guest biologists, and docents that will include: Cougars; Bobcats, and Coyotes; Hawk Research, Wild and Beautiful: Natural History of Open Spaces in Orange County, Starr Ranch Ecosystems (during a truck ride around the Ranch), Starr Ranch History Walk, Plant Walk, Snakes 101 & Nature Walks. Admission is free, but by RESERVATION ONLY. Donations accepted. Space is limited, so make your reservations soon. Each person chooses two workshops during the 9 am sign-up on a first come first serve basis. Tables will be available for picnic lunches. Toilets are available. No pets are allowed. Rain cancels. For reservations or information you can call949-858-0131 or sign up online at: www.starr-ranch.org.

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Nothing to report

SAN CLEMENTE

TONIGHT November 4, 2011 from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. is the annual A Taste of San Clemente! Held under the stars, this annual event serves up culinary masterpieces from over twenty of the areas finest restaurants, as well as sixteen premium wineries from throughout California, ice cold Microbrews and more. Tickets are limited to 250 guests. The ticket price includes a complimentary "Taste of San Clemente" wine glass or beer mug, food, wine, entertainment and valet parking. For more information you can call 949-492-1131.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Thanksgiving at Sarducci's Capistrano Depot!Enjoy a traditional turkey dinner or other fabulous meal choices in historic downtown San Juan Capistrano. Eat early, then enjoy a stroll by the mission and through the Los Rios Historic District. For reservations (949) 493-1163









*As seen in orangecounty.net & ocregister.com



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900