Saturday, July 30, 2011

Caruso's Useful Websites

We seem to be on the internet most of the day, whether it be for work or pleasure. Here are just a few sites that I enjoy and think are very useful in everyday life.



Ehow.com: This site is for tips and step-by-step instructions on how to do stuff. There’s the practical how to teach a child to tie their shoes and the creative how to make title mosaics and the merely suggestive, how to exercise at the beach.



News.google.com: Keyword searches pull up links to the latest stories, each with a note indicating when it first appeared. The returns are culled from thousands of online news sources based in the U.S. and abroad. You can sort results by date or relevance. You can also request email alerts so you know when new articles are posted.



Cancerfacts.com: A great online resource for cancer patients and their families. The profile took delivers information tailored to a specific cancer diagnosis. Register with an email address to receive news of the new therapies and treatment options. Then take a moment to stop by the breastcancersite.com. Click on the big pink button for a page of ads from sponsors that donate mammograms to poor women based on the number of click-throughs.



FFFBI.com: The home of “The Fin, Fur, and Feather Bureau of Investigation seeks to teach kids problem-solving and critical-thinking skills while introducing them to other places and cultures. To participate, you must choose a mission, follow instructions and answer questions to help foil evil plots. It’s cute and clever.



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

Friday, July 29, 2011

Caruso's OC Happenings

NORTH COUNTY




ANAHEIM
Coming up August 12-14, 2011 is the annual Harvest Crusade. In 1990, a small group of people set out to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to southern Californians in a non-traditional, non-church environment. Located at the Angel Stadium for more information you can call (714) 638-0981.

BREA

Nothing to report



BUENA PARK

Nothing to report

CYPRESS
This Saturday, July 31 starting at 6:00pm & presented by the Cypress Recreation & Community Services Department will be Raymond Michael's Elvis Tribute concert! All concerts are free. Festival seating, picnics and lawn chairs are encouraged. Light refreshments are available for purchase. No Alcohol permitted. For more information you can call (714) 229-6780.

FULLERTON
It’s that time again! Summer Concerts in the park! Bring your family and friends to enjoy a night of music under the stars! While food will be available for purchase, concert-goers are welcome to bring a picnic supper to enjoy, as well as lawn chairs or blankets for seating. DATES & TIMES: Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 13th will be Southbound (70's and Southern Rock). For more information or to find out other upcoming bands you can call (714) 738-3167.

GARDEN GROVE

Still a few more concerts left if you haven’t been to one yet! Coming up August 4 - Neil Morrow, Country Rock, August 11 - Abbey Road, Beatles Tribute & the last concert will be August 18 - Nyght Ryder, 80's & 90's. Concertgoers can enjoy the sights and sounds of evening concerts in the park brought to you by the Garden Grove Community Foundation. No EZ-Ups or golf carts, please. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. DATES & TIMES: Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information or to find out other upcoming bands you can call (714) 741-5280.

LA HABRA

Coming up August 5-7 for the La Habra Corn Festival! The Annual Event includes; Food, Rides, Games, Music and fun for the whole family. Daytime or night time - anytime is the right time for fun at the La Habra Corn Festival. Meet Miss La Habra and her court when you purchase raffle tickets for a new Car or other great prizes. Enjoy hot buttery Corn on the Cob, great sandwiches, sweet warm Funnel Cakes and other tasty treats. Be sure to visit the new Corn Festival Marketplace! Admission is FREE! For more information you can call 562-691-3482.

LA PALMA
Nothing to report

PLACENTIA

Nothing to report

STANTON
Nothing to report
WESTMINSTER

Coming up at the end of summer Saturday, Aug 20 2:00p at The Rose Center Theater is the Ms. Senior California Pageant! Eighteen Ms. Senior California preliminary finalists from San Francisco to San Diego will compete for the title of Ms. Senior California 2011.

YORBA LINDA

Sunday, July 31, 2011 bring your own picnic diner and/or buy food from local non-profit organizations and the Yorba Linda Volunteers and come watch Film at Eleven (R & B). Seating is available in the amphitheater or grass areas at the park (chairs and blankets recommended). *Dogs are not recommended due to safety issues and the comfort of others in attendance. Riding skateboards, bikes, roller blades, and scooters throughout the park during the concert is prohibited. Alcohol is not allowed in the park. For more information, call the Travis Ranch Activity Center at (714) 961-7167.



CENTRAL COUNTY

COSTA MESA

NOW throught Aug 14, 2011 is the annual Orange County Fair!!!! The annual Orange County Fair is the premier family attraction in Southern California offering a wide variety of exhibits, foods, entertainment, rides and hands-on activities. There is something for everybody at the Fair including the summer headline concert series, working farm and petting zoos, thrill rides, contests, and games. For more information you can call 714-708-FAIR.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Nothing to report

HUNTINGTON BEACH
Big weekend! This Saturday & Sunday is the start of the 2011 Nike US Open of Surfing! The US Open of Surfing has a storied reputation for going big. This year will only add to that legacy as title sponsor Nike – along with presenting sponsors Hurley, Converse and Nike 6.0 – continue to elevate the event as the world’s largest youth culture and action sport festival. With more than 500,000 people in attendance along a 14-acre stretch of sand on the south side of Huntington Beach Pier, the Nike US Open of Surfing showcases the best in surf, skate, BMX, music, fashion and art. The 2011 Nike US Open of Surfing will run from July 30 to August 7. All events are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC or can be viewed live daily at www.usopenofsurfing.com. For more information you can visit http://www.usopenofsurfing.com/article.cfm?aid=45445.

IRVINE

Sunday, July 31 will be another free concert at Woodbridge Community Park. Several delicious food options, including gourmet food trucks, will be on site, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Irvine Public Schools Foundation, the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee and other Irvine non-profit organizations. This Sunday will be Target Symphony in the Cities featuring the Pacific Symphony (5:30 pm - Musical Playground and 7:00 pm – Concert). For more information you can call (949) 724-6606.

LOS ALAMITOS

Nothing to report

NEWPORT BEACH

TOMORROW July 30th, 2011 from 3-9pm is the Annual Lobsterfest! Dinner will be served at 6:00 pm. There will also be Live Entertainment, Activities for Kids, Maine lobster, shrimp, clams, auction and raffle opportunities and more! For more information you can call (949) 650-5504.

ORANGE

Nothing to report
SANTA ANA

NOW through September 11th the Discovery Science Center Presents: WaterWorks: Soak Up the Science! It’s H20 from A2Z at WaterWorks: Soak up the Science this summer at Discovery Science Center. Immerse yourself in stimulating, hands-on learning experiences that will quench your thirst for the playful, powerful and precious world of water. Explore how water gets physical by creating a perfect rainbow, capturing a raindrop and examining snowflakes. Dive into the “Water Quiz” to test your knowledge of water and learn about water quality and management and the stresses that are being put on this natural resource. For more information you can call 714-542-2823.

SEAL BEACH
Nothing to report

TUSTIN

Coming up August 6, 2011 from11am to 4pm is the 2011 Parenting & Kids Expo (The District at Tustin Legacy, 2437 Park Ave). This free event offers entertainment and fun for the whole family with a Back-to-School fashion show, live performances from some of the southland's up-and-coming musical talents, and over 60 exhibitors presenting useful information for parents. Parents can also enter their kids in the Cut Kid Cover Contest for a mini photo shoot at the event and a chance to appear on the cover of an upcoming issue of Parenting OC Magazine.

VILLA PARK
Nothing to report

South County

ALISO VIEJO

Nothing to report

DANA POINT

Coming up soon is the Annual outdoor Shakespeare production overlooking Dana Point Harbor. Admission is FREE with a donation of canned food to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. The event is located at Lantern Bay Park. For more information you can call (949) 291-5083

LADERA RANCH

Nothing to report

LAGUNA BEACH

Now through August 28, 2011 is the 45th Annual Art-A-Fair (777 Laguna Canyon Road). Art-A-Fair is one of So Cal's most popular art festivals! The juried art of our 125 international, national and local artists promises to inspire & bring forth passion. Walk among the artists as they create their fine art and master craft pieces and learn what inspired them. Also, take advantage of art workshops taught by AAF artists – just $25 for two hours or $40 for four hours! For more information you can call (949) 494-4514.South Coast Symphony is proud to present “The Russians are Coming, The Russians are Coming!” This spectacular concert under the musical direction of Conductor Barry Silverman will feature Russian artists performing Russian music. The performers will include Michael Voronel and Ruslan Biryukov.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

Sunday Funday Open House! Come on by July 31 between 12:00-4:00 at 46 Pembroke Lane, Laguna Niguel located in the prestigious Ocean Ranch Gated Community. This Beautiful Home with Private Pool & Spa has Recently Painted Interior/Exterior & Remodeled Kitchen. You won't be disappointed!

LAKE FOREST

Nothing to report

MISSION VIEJO

Nothing to report

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Nothing to report

SAN CLEMENTE

Coming up August 14 from 9:00am-7:00pm is the Annual San Clemente Street Faire and Fiesta located on Ave Del Mar! The event includes continuous entertainment on three stages. Food booths, contests and games provided by non-profit organizations. For more information you can call 949-492-1131.



.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
This is the LAST weekend to attend the Capistrano Shakespeare Festival! The Camino Real Playhouse presents their annual Shakespeare Festival in July. 'Shakespeare Inc', a historically possible envisioning of the Shakespeare Conspiracy theory will be performed on the main stage and Shakespeare’s classic, timeless and most popular comedy, 'The Taming Of The Shrew' will be an outdoor production next to the playhouse. For more information you can call (949) 489-8082.









*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

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Are You Protected?

The time has come! The new state law has passed! The use of Carbon Monoxide Alarms will be required. California’s Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act of 2010 requires that all residential properties with a fossil fuel burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage be equipped with an approved Carbon Monoxide Alarm.

All single family homes must be equipped with a Carbon Monoxide Alarm by JULY 1, 2011 - so if you haven't already you're late! All other residential units must have a Carbon Monoxide Alarm by JANUARY 1, 2013.

Only Carbon Monoxide Alarms that are approved by the California State Fire Marshall and have the Underwrites Laboratories Inc. (UL) Certification may be used. Carbon Monoxide Alarms are available at your local hardware and home improvement stores.

For more information you can visit www.socalgas.com keyword search Carbon Monoxide.



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

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

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

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 JUNE:

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

2011 31 listings closed escrow *12% increase vs. 2010
2010 27 listings closed escrow

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

2011 49 listings closed escrow *10% decline from 2010

2010 54 listings closed escrow

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

2011 11 listings closed escrow *Slight increase from 2010

2010 8 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

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Offline Marketing with Caruso!

Right now we live in a virtual world. Everyday, all day you hear about internet marketing, and it is true that it is a great, cost effective way to build a brand, and gain new business. However, if you are just not ready to take that leap into the virtual worlds there are still some great offline marketing ideas that you should not ignore.

Every day, you come into contact with hundreds, if not thousands of people, all of whom are potential clients for your business. While your online marketing and other advertising methods are important, it’s as important to take advantage of those chance encounters, and there are plenty of ways you can do that.

Offline marketing has the same goal as your marketing efforts online – it is designed to help drive traffic to your website or business. Print advertising, radio ads, and other forms of marketing and advertising that are not on the internet all fall into this category, but often, they are far beyond the budget of the small business owner.

The secret is to think outside of the box a little bit, and come up with offline marketing ideas that cost as little as possible, but that have maximum impact, and will get you the most exposure possible.

One of the most important things you should do is to always be prepared with your business cards. You never know when you will meet someone who may be interested in, or useful to, your small business, and this is the foundation of offline marketing for your business. Keep business cards in your car, in your wallet or in your purse, and make sure that you always have them ready to hand over to anyone who seems interested.

Another great offline marketing idea is a low tech one. Have a t-shirt printed with your company details on it, and wear it when you go to events. You never know when someone at your child’s sports day will be your next big client, or someone you meet on the golf course is a new supplier with a great product and by wearing your t-shirt, you open a channel for dialogue.

Flyers, or discount coupons are another great offline marketing tool that you can use to generate interest in your business. Have them printed with your latest special offers, or with a promotional code that customers can use to save on their next purchase. At the very least, when someone who receives one needs a product or service you provide, they will contact you for a quote.

Lastly, get your name out there, everywhere. These are marketing tactics that are designed to get people’s attention, but they need not be difficult or complicated to achieve. It’s easy; simply having your website and nothing else printed on stickers, and then placing those stickers wherever you are allowed to, can generate more traffic for your business, and more sales.

If your budget for offline advertising is a little bigger, consider sponsoring an event, or even the scoreboard at your local school. Many organizations are always on the look out for sponsorships, and by taking part, you are doing some good, and you will get credited for it.

Networking is another great method of offline marketing. Nearly every city and town has at least one business networking group, and there are usually trade or commerce associations you can join too. These events usually put you in touch with likeminded business people, and can be a great source of referrals and business to business leads.

There is an old saying – no man is an island – and the same is true of your business. While the internet is a great marketing tool, and it may even be your entire business, there is still a lot of value to offline marketing too. Personal connections and real interactions with people can often be the catalyst that takes your business to the next level.

When you spend time on offline marketing efforts, you will connect with real people. Those people may just become your biggest clients, or they may be valuable business contacts. They are also likely to share what they have learned about you and your business with their friends, and word of mouth is still a powerful form of advertising.

So whether your business is online or off, it is a good idea to look for offline marketing ideas that meet your budget and your marketing needs, and put them into practice. It cannot hurt your business, and it can certainly do a lot to boost 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

Thursday, July 21, 2011

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

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 JUNE:

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

2011 17 listings closed escrow
2010 32 listings closed escrow

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

2011 10 listings closed escrow

2010 8 listings closed escrow

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

2011 7 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?



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

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Caruso's *LAGUNA NIGUEL* Closed Sales Report ~ June

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 JUNE:

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

2011 45 listings closed escrow *Keeping pace with last year. Showing a slight increase

2010 42 listings closed escrow

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

2011 33 listings closed escrow *Dramatic drop in sales down 40%

2010 51 listings closed escrow

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

2011 10 listings closed escrow *Shows improvement vs. 2010

2010 6 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

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

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

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 JUNE:

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

2011 16 listings closed escrow *Slight Drop
2010 19 listings closed escrow

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

2011 18 listings closed escrow *Dramatic Slip in Sales

2010 26 listings closed escrow

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

2011 6 listings closed escrow *Kept Pace

2010 7 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

Saturday, July 16, 2011

It's Gonna be a Hot One....

This weekend around the states, weather forecasters say a dangerous heat wave will begin to build this weekend and linger around until at least Friday. High temperatures in some locations are expected to top 100 degrees Tuesday through Friday, while accompanying high humidity will result in heat index readings between 105 and 115 degrees.

In times like these it's important to stay cool. A lot of us depend on our air conditioning during this time. But what if it just magically stops? Now what? Don't freak...at first. There are a few reasons why your air conditioning unit could have gone out.

The power may be out - Check the circuit breakers, fuses and plugs. Ensure that the circuit breakers are not tripped, or the fuses blown. Reset the circuit breakers if needed.

The batteries in the thermostat may need to be replaced - Check the batteries in the thermostat and replace them if needed.

The thermostat may be set incorrectly - Ensure that the thermostat is set to the A/C setting, COOL.

The thermostat may be set too high - Set the thermostat on the air conditioner below room temperature.

The selector switch may be set to FAN ONLY - Set the selector switch to circulate. Seal any leaks where the housing meets the window.

The outdoor temperature may be too cool - The outside temperature must be over 70° in order for the air conditioner to work to capacity. Set the thermostat to COOL first thing in the morning to maintain the temperature throughout the day.

There may be obstructions or debris in the ductwork blocking the flow of air - Clear the ducts and the unit of any debris or obstructions for proper air flow.

The registers may be closed - Open the register(s) to let air flow into the room(s).

If your unit is still not cooling or running properly, please give your service provider a call. And remember, air conditioners are designed to keep your home 20-25 degrees cooler than the temperature outdoors.



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

Friday, July 15, 2011

Caruso's *IRVINE* Closed Sales Report ~ June

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 JUNE:

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

2011 91 listings closed escrow
2010 75 listings closed escrow

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

2011 107 listings closed escrow

2010 111 listings closed escrow

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

2011 21 listings closed escrow
2010 32 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. My Web Site and Blog can keep you up to date.

Call our office if you have any questions or want more information on a particular neighborhood. Learn What it's Like to Work With Someone Focused on Your Success....not Theirs. 3 decades of experience, education and proven production. Call Michael at 949-753-7900 or 949-495-8600 or email Michael@MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com! Everything is also available online at www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.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

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Pets & Natural Disasters with Caruso!

Each year, natural disasters affect people and pets across the country. Severe weather is inevitable, but losing a beloved pet doesn't have to be. Unfortunately, because of the unpredictability of natural disasters, it is always best to have a plan in place to keep our four-legged family members safe. If a situation is dangerous for humans, it is dangerous for animals, and with the help of "Petmate" I have put together some tips on how pet owners can prepare for a natural disaster.

Preparing for a natural disaster:

•Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Animal shelters and kennels typically require proof of vaccines.
•Put a sticker on the door or a main window of your home that lists the number and kinds of animals you have in case you are not home when an evacuation is necessary. These stickers are available at most pet stores. If you do leave with your pets please put a large note on the door stating that you have evacuated and have all of your animals.
•Have a current photograph of your pet, and keep it with you for identification purposes.
•Microchip identification is always helpful for everyone involved. Please keep your animal's microchip information in their evacuation file. Yes, even birds can be micro chipped. Even if you are not preparing for a disaster having your pet micro chipped is always smart.
•Create and keep an updated list of emergency telephone numbers. Include your veterinarian, local animal control, local animal shelters, the Red Cross, and any other individual or group you might need to contact during the disaster.
•Prepare a survival kit for each pet. All kits will be as unique as your animal, however all kits should carry food, water bottles, cups/bowels to place food and water etc.


Official shelters do not allow pets. If in the event of evacuation you cannot find a pet-friendly hotel (they fill up very quickly, another good reason to evacuate early), make other arrangements for pets if you cannot all stay together, such as with family, friends, veterinarians, or kennels in safe locations.

There are many websites that offer pet evacuation plans and other helpful tips that are specific to your region. Review those each year as you prepare for seasons that bring natural disasters, as they will be updated with important information you need to keep all of your family members safe - including your pet.



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

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Caruso's Favorite Gifts for Your Clients at Closing!

The papers are signed and the keys are exchanged. You're done! Time to celebrate! Hold on! Not quite yet. Personally I feel giving a gift to your client at closing isn't just customary; it's a token of your appreciation for their business and a way to potentially generate future referrals. I have gathered together some of the best ideas for a variety of clients and since times are still tough everything is $50 or less!

For the Pet Lover: If their dogs are apart of the family, consider the Pampered Pooch Collection from "Kiehl's" ($44 www.kiehls.com) the set includes cleansing spritz, conditioning rinse and grooming shampoo. Crate & Barrel's Cat Treat Jar ($14.95, www.creatandbarrel.com) is dishwasher safe, yet stylish enough for the kitchen counter. Or keep it simple by assembling a gift basket of toys and treats from the local pet store. Consider using a pet toy storage box ($34.97 www.walmart.com) add the basket for extra functionality.

For the Outdoor Enthusiasts: For backpackers, the Coleman PowerPack 1-Burner Stove ($36.88 www.walmart.com) offers a portable, lightweight means to heat food and beverages on the go. For runners, cyclists and rollerbladers, the Nike + iPod Sport Kit ($29 www.apple.com) will give real-time feedback during workouts and lets users track their progress on their computer. Any active person would be pleased with the HydraCoach ($30 www.hydracoach.com), which is the first "smart" water bottle; it automatically calculates and monitors fluid consumption.

For the Green Thumbs: Fill a colorful, multi-use Tubtrug ($11.95 www.gardentoolcompany.com) with garden gloves, breakfast tea, scented hand cream and cleansing cloths for a DIY garden gift basket. The Stack and Grow Garden Planter ($39.95 www.wheatgrasskits.com) is an attractive and versatile container that can hold up to 20 plants and can be rolled inside the house or out, depending on the weather. A self-water planter ($18.95 www.amazon.com) can take the guesswork out of maintenance, which is always good, considering new homeowners will be spending most of their time unpacking, not worrying whether the plants were watered.

For the Relocaters: If the homeowners are completely new to the area, it will take them some time to learn the ins and outs of their neighborhood. Get them up to spend by purchasing a one-year subscription to the community newspaper. It will give them insight to the town's politics, events, schools, and stakeholders. If you're feeling creative, make postcards from a photo of their new house (starting at $7.99 for 10 www.vistaprint.com) so they can mail their new information to friends and family.

For the First-timers: This is probably the easiest category of homeowners to buy for because this is the first time they own a home. How Your House Works: A Visual Guide to Understanding & Maintaining Your Home ($17.95 www.amazon.com) will help newbie's conquer basic repairs and DIY projects with ease. A quality step stool ($14.99 www.target.com) and a cordless screwdriver ($29.95 www.sears.com) are something all homes should be equipped with.

For the Food Lovers: Grill masters will enjoy the Travel Chef BBQ Set ($45 www.uncommongoods.com) which includes a vinyl-backed apron equipped with a spatula, basting brush, fork, heavy duty oven mitt and stainless steel tongs. At the Dean & Deluca website (www.deandeluca.com) you can build your own gift basket a la carte or choose ready-made baskets, like the Dean & Deluca Chocolate Mix ($34).

I Don't Have a Client like Any of Those: If your client doesn't seem to fit any of those previous categories or if you just want to stick with a gift that has broad appeal, don't fret you still have plenty of options. Load up a gas gift card, preferably one that can be used for snacks, car washes and other goodies in addition to fuel. A digital photo frame ($49.99 www.amazon.com) is a thoughtful addition to any living room. To add a personal touch, load it with a picture of the homeowners in front of their new home! Also sign up for Groupon, Living Social and Screaming Daily Deals to get cheap discounts on a variety of services and activities - for example restaurants, dry cleaning, spas, dance lessons and more.

While finding the right gift for your client may take a bit of time, it's a great opportunity to show them that you value your relationship and hopefully in the future they will call you again or recommend you to a friend.



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

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Did You Know with Caruso....

Did you know that according to commercial real estate research firm CoStar Group, foreign investment in domestic Real Estate grew to 4.2% in 2010, up from 1.9% during the height of the market in 2007? While foreign investors have tended to focus on markets like New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington D.C. in the past; they also are starting to look at San Diego, Seattle & other secondary markets. And now you know!



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

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Caruso's Signs Your Ready to Buy a House!

Buy a House? Rent a House? You go back and forth daily. Not sure what you should do? Well if you're still unsure; consider some of the personal and economic conditions that favor home purchases. If you find that a number of these signs ring true for you, it might be time to contact a real estate agent and start shopping.

You're Ready to Commit: First and foremost, if you're not ready to commit to owning a home, you should not buy a house. Home ownership comes with an overabundance of responsibilities, including home maintenance, property taxes and the process of selling the property when it comes time to move. Legal fees, moving expenses, and the entire incidental costs associated with buying a home can really add up. To make the most of these costs, it's best to plan on living in your new home for a stretch of time. Consider whether you have a stable job that will provide a solid income for a mortgage, and if there's any chance you'll have to relocate in the near future. If you feel you can commit to sticking with a home for at least five years, then it might be just the right time for you to buy. If you're typically a hardened commitment-phoebe, remember that you can sell or rent your property if your situation changes dramatically.

Owning Costs Less than Renting: If you've examined your budget and realized that your monthly payments associated with buying a home are less than you're currently paying in rent, it's time to consider a home purchase. Talk to your bank and look at what your mortgage payments would be for a variety of different properties and gage what you can afford. Factor in any additional costs you may have to pay, such as condominium fees or extra utility bills, and compare your total costs to what you're paying in rent. If it's roughly the same or less, you could be saving money by purchasing a home - plus there's the added benefit that you'll be putting your monthly home expenditures toward your own home equity!

Buyer's Market: When demand for housing is low and there's a wealth of properties on the market that aren't moving too fast, that's known as a buyer's market. You'll have a lot more bargaining power under these conditions than if you're buying in a seller's market, which is when demand for homes is high, resulting in few properties on the market that are selling fast. In a buyer's market, chances are you'll be able to negotiate a seller's list price down - sometimes quite substantially - and save yourself a lot of money in the process.

Low Interest Rates: When interest rates are low, it's a great time to look at buying a home. You will be able to get a reasonable interest rate on your mortgage loan, which can save you a lot of money in the long run. A home is generally the single largest purchase anyone makes, and the amount of interest tacked onto a mortgage really adds up over the years that you're repaying the loan. Even a difference of a fraction of a percentage point can make a pretty big difference over the long term. Consider a mortgage of $220,000. The difference between a rate of 4.2 per cent and 4.5 per cent results in an extra $13,993 paid toward interest over the course of a 30-year mortgage. That's a lot more than just pocket change.

Adequate Funds for a Down Payment: Having a hefty down payment helps in the same way as finding a low interest rate. Ultimately, the less you owe, the less you'll have to repay and the less you'll have to tack on for interest. If you find yourself with a nice lump of cash, putting it toward a home purchase is definitely a solid financial investment. Just think, you'll be building equity in your home which you'll see again when you sell, and you'll have somewhere to live in the meantime. Though it may be tempting to put the money toward a trip, a new car or a luxury shopping spree, the return on investment on these sorts of purchases - at least in the strict financial sense - can be rather disappointing.

Seasonal: During the springtime, more house listings tend to come on the market. With the poor winter weather over and the kids nearly done school for another year, this seems to be the time when most people are willing to take on a move. Having more homes on the market means a wider selection - and a greater ability to negotiate price. However, this is also the time of year when more buyers are in the market. Circumstances will depend on your particular market conditions, but the arrival of spring typically revives the real estate market after quieter winters. Alternatively, if you're willing to move during the winter months, sometimes owners of homes that have been sitting on the market for a long time are more willing to negotiate.

Bottom Line; Occasionally, timing the buying or selling of your home may not be within your control, however, if you do have the opportunity to choose when you enter the market, doing it at the right time can save you a lot of money. Always remember that buying a home is a big commitment, so at the very minimum, you should never purchase a home without being completely sure that you're ready to take on the responsibility. If you're ready to commit and you find yourself with a number of other favorable factors like a low interest rate and a good sum of money you can put toward a down payment, then it's probably a great time to take the plunge and who better to take the plunge with than Michael Caruso?! No one performs like Michael Caruso to get your home Sold & Save you money! Call Now 949-753-7900!



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

Friday, July 8, 2011

Caruso's OC Happenings!


NORTH COUNTY

ANAHEIM

Coming up August 12-14, 2011 is the annual Harvest Crusade. In 1990, a small group of people set out to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to southern Californians in a non-traditional, non-church environment. Located at the Angel Stadium for more information you can call (714) 638-0981.

BREA

Nothing to report

BUENA PARK

Nothing to report

CYPRESS
July 23rd from 9am-5pm is the annual Cypress Community Festival! It's one of the largest one-day festivals in Orange County that attracts over 20,000 people annually. Event includes: Chili Cookoff, Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast, Car Show, Family Games, Food Booths, Chamber Business Expo, Children's Rides, Arts & Crafts & Entertainment. Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast is from 7:00-11:00am & 30th Annual 5k & 10k Run/Walk starts at 7:30am. For more information you can call (714) 827-2430.

FULLERTON

It's that time again! Summer Concerts in the park! Bring your family and friends to enjoy a night of music under the stars! While food will be available for purchase, concert-goers are welcome to bring a picnic supper to enjoy, as well as lawn chairs or blankets for seating. DATES & TIMES: Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 13th will be Southbound (70's and Southern Rock). For more information or to find out other upcoming bands you can call (714) 738-3167.

GARDEN GROVE

This July 14th kicks off summer concerts in the park with Hollywood U2 (U2 Tribute). Concertgoers can enjoy the sights and sounds of evening concerts in the park brought to you by the Garden Grove Community Foundation. No EZ-Ups or golf carts, please. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. DATES & TIMES: Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information or to find out other upcoming bands you can call (714) 741-5280.

LA HABRA

Mark your calendars for August 5-7 for the La Habra Corn Festival! The Annual Event includes; Food, Rides, Games, Music and fun for the whole family. Daytime or night time - anytime is the right time for fun at the La Habra Corn Festival. Meet Miss La Habra and her court when you purchase raffle tickets for a new Car or other great prizes. Enjoy hot buttery Corn on the Cob, great sandwiches, sweet warm Funnel Cakes and other tasty treats. Be sure to visit the new Corn Festival Marketplace! Admission is FREE! For more information you can call 562-691-3482.

LA PALMA

Nothing to report

PLACENTIA

Nothing to report

STANTON

Nothing to report


WESTMINSTER

Coming up at the end of summer Saturday, Aug 20 2:00p at The Rose Center Theater is the Ms. Senior California Pageant! Eighteen Ms. Senior California preliminary finalists from San Francisco to San Diego will compete for the title of Ms. Senior California 2011.

YORBA LINDA

Nothing to report

CENTRAL COUNTY
COSTA MESA

Starting Jul 15, 2011 - Aug 14, 2011 is the annual Orange County Fair!!!! The annual Orange County Fair is the premier family attraction in Southern California offering a wide variety of exhibits, foods, entertainment, rides and hands-on activities. There is something for everybody at the Fair including the summer headline concert series, working farm and petting zoos, thrill rides, contests, and games. For more information you can call 714-708-FAIR.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Nothing to report


HUNTINGTON BEACH

This Sunday, July 10th from 2-6pm Old World Presents: German Heritage Day & Dachshund Races & Marketplace Sidewalk Sale! Enjoy your afternoon with tasty German Beer & our full cocktail bar, along with food, music and fun! First 500 guests will receive a FREE meal. This is a Family event, the dress is casual, and everyone is welcome. The "Oberlandler" German folk dancers will perform dances over 100 years old. Dachshund Races will also take place on this fun filled action.

IRVINE

Coming up July 16-17th from 4pm-10am is the annual Boomer Canyon Family Campout! Gather your family, a tent and some sleeping bags and come on down to Irvine's outback in the mystic Bommer Canyon Cattle Camp. This exciting camping experience includes a BBQ dinner, a light breakfast, hikes, games, crafts, campfire fun and more! An adult must accompany children under 18. The cost is $24 per a person. More information you can call 949-724-6738.

LOS ALAMITOS

Nothing to report

NEWPORT BEACH

Coming up Saturday July 30th, 2011 from 3-9pm is the Annual Lobsterfest! Dinner will be served at 6:00 pm. There will also be Live Entertainment, Activities for Kids, Maine lobster, shrimp, clams, auction and raffle opportunities and more! For more information you can call (949) 650-5504.

ORANGE

Nothing to report

SANTA ANA

NOW through September 11th the Discovery Science Center Presents: WaterWorks: Soak Up the Science! It's H20 from A2Z at WaterWorks: Soak up the Science this summer at Discovery Science Center. Immerse yourself in stimulating, hands-on learning experiences that will quench your thirst for the playful, powerful and precious world of water. Explore how water gets physical by creating a perfect rainbow, capturing a raindrop and examining snowflakes. Dive into the "Water Quiz" to test your knowledge of water and learn about water quality and management and the stresses that are being put on this natural resource. For more information you can call 714-542-2823.

SEAL BEACH
Nothing to report

TUSTIN
Nothing to report

VILLA PARK
Nothing to report


South County
ALISO VIEJO

Nothing to report

DANA POINT

Coming up soon is the Annual outdoor Shakespeare production overlooking Dana Point Harbor. Admission is FREE with a donation of canned food to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. The event is located at Lantern Bay Park. For more information you can call (949) 291-5083

LADERA RANCH

Nothing to report

LAGUNA BEACH

Now through August 28, 2011 is the 45th Annual Art-A-Fair (777 Laguna Canyon Road). Art-A-Fair is one of So Cal's most popular art festivals! The juried art of our 125 international, national and local artists promises to inspire & bring forth passion. Walk among the artists as they create their fine art and master craft pieces and learn what inspired them. Also, take advantage of art workshops taught by AAF artists - just $25 for two hours or $40 for four hours! For more information you can call (949) 494-4514.South Coast Symphony is proud to present "The Russians are Coming, The Russians are Coming!" This spectacular concert under the musical direction of Conductor Barry Silverman will feature Russian artists performing Russian music. The performers will include Michael Voronel and Ruslan Biryukov.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

WANTED: Fall Crafts Faire Vendors! Showcase your crafting talent at the Fall Boutique & Crafts Faire located at the beautifully renovated Sea Country Center. Submit your application to Laguna Niguel Parks & Rec. - 29751 Crown Valley Pkwy., Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 between June 1 and Aug. 1. ALL ITEMS SOLD MUST BE HANDCRAFTED/HAND EMBELLISHED. See link to download application. http://www.ci.lagunaniguel.ca.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=1944

LAKE FOREST

Nothing to report

MISSION VIEJO

Nothing to report

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Nothing to report

SAN CLEMENTE

Coming up Saturday & Sunday July 16-17th is the 35th Annual Ocean Festival, celebrating 35 years of "The Greatest Show on Surf"! Waterman & Waterwoman Competitions, 5K Beach run, Surf & Bodysurf Contests, Fishing Derby, Woody Car Exhibit, Ocean Art Show, Children's Events and much, much more! For more information you can call 949-440-6141.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
This weekend, July 9-10th is the annual Relay for Life! A fun and inspirational 24-hour event that brings together a community to raise funds for cancer research located at the SJC Sports Park. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life is the largest cancer-fighting event in the nation, raising nearly hundreds of millions of dollars last year alone! It's a time and place where people come to celebrate those who have survived cancer, remember those we've lost, and fight back against a disease that touches too many lives.




*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

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Did You Know with Caruso...

Did you know homeowners dreaming of a new bathroom or a beautifully landscaped yard must be feeling more financially secure these days, as home improvements projects are on the rise, according to a recent study from Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies. More that $125 billion is the estimated spend for home remodeling in this years first quarter, up 9.1% from this time last year. And that number is predicted to rise, with an estimated $132.9 billion projected for the second quarter of 2011! And now you know.



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

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Caruso's Green Tip of the Day!

Changing your work area from 72 degrees

to 78 degrees could cut your energy costs by as much as 15%!

And that's Your Green Tip of the Day!

**In Southern California, electricity costs more to create in the summer (when energy demand is at its peak) and less to produce in the winter during periods of lower demand. As a result, your GS-1 rate is lower during the eight month "winter" rate period (October-May) and higher during the four month "summer" rate period. Instituted in October 2009, this seasonal rate shift was designed to align rates with the increased energy demands that come with the summer months. SCE offers a number of programs and services to help you reduce your energy usage and manage your summer energy bills. For more information you can visit www.sce.com/smartbiz.





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

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Recognizing & Responding to Signs of a Gas Leak!

Customers play a critical role in recognizing signs of a gas leak. Leaking gas from an appliance, damaged pipeline or gas meter could cause a fire, explosion, property damage or serious bodily injury. Use your senses, along with any of the following signs, to alert you to the presence of a gas leak:

Sight:

-Dirt or water being thrown in the air

-Dead or dying vegetation (in otherwise moist area) over or near pipeline areas

-A fire or explosion near a pipeline

-Exposed pipeline after an earthquake, fire, flood, or other disaster

Sound:

-An unusual sound, such as hissing, whistling or roaring sound near a pipeline

Smell:

-The distinctive odor of natural gas (Some people may not be able to smell the odor because they have a diminished sense of small, olfactory fatigue (normal, temporary inability to distinguish an odor after prolonged exposure of it? Or because the odor is being masked or hidden by other odors that are present, such as cooking, damp, musty or chemical odors. In addition, certain conditions in pipe and soil can cause odor fade - the loss of odorant so that it is not detectable by smell.

If you detect signs of a natural gas leak, follow these steps:

-Remain calm

-Don't light a match, candle, or cigarette

-Don't turn electrical appliances or lights on or off or use any device that could cause a spark

-Immediately evacuate the area and from a safe location, call The Gas Company at 1-800-427-2200, 24 hours a day, seven days a week; or call 911.



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

Saturday, July 2, 2011

4th of July Wishes from Caruso!

July 4th is our country's anniversary and it brings to mind how far we have come.

Enjoy the awe-inspiring festivities that light up the night's sky. With each thunderous burst, we are reminded of our freedom.

Have a wonderful day, forget the day-to-day angst, and focus on what's important in life.

Enjoy the day off and remember that although some things remain the same, there's no better place on earth.



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
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