In honor of Valentine’s Day I thought it would be nice to give you a little background on the Holiday & a few fun facts I have put together! Wishing everyone a wonderful day filled with much love & happiness! Spread the love today!
Saint Valentine's Day, often simply Valentine's Day, is a holiday observed on February 14 honoring one or more early Christian martyrs named Valentinus. It was first established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD, and was later deleted from the General Roman Calendar of saints in 1969 by Pope Paul VI. It is celebrated in countries around the world, mostly in the West, although it remains a working day in all of them. The day first became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. By the 15th century, it had evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as "valentines"). Modern Valentine's Day symbols include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards. ~ Wikipedia
Valentines Food Fact:
NECCO 'conversation hearts" were first manufactured in 1866 called "Motto Hearts"
Events of February 14 ~ Married on this day:
February 14, 1974, The Captain and Tennille were married.
February 14, 1984, Elton John and Ms. Renate Blauel
February 14, 1991, Leeza Gibbons, talk show host and Stephen Meadows
February 14, 1991, Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid
February 6, 1994, Brian Wilson, Beach Boys Founder and Melinda Ledbetter.
February 14, 1994 Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia (51) wed Deborah Koons
February 14, 1994, Roseanne Barr and Ben Thomas, her ex-bodyguard.
February 19, 1995, Pamela Anderson, Baywatch Star and Tommy Lee, Rock star
February 14, 1996, Prince/The Artist married Mayte Garcia.
February 14, 1998 Sharon Stone & Phil Bronstein, San Francisco Examiner Executive Editor
Today's Food History on this day in...
1779 RIP Captain James Cook, British explorer who charted and named many Pacific Islands, including the Sandwich Islands (Hawaii).
1803 Moses Coats patented an apple parer.
1838 Margaret E. Knight was born. An American inventor, she invented an improved paper bag machine to make bags with flat bottoms.
1886 California oranges were first shipped East by rail.
1903 The U.S. Department of Commerce and Labor was established.
2003 Dolly the sheep died. Dolly was the first animal cloned from an adult animal. (Born July 5, 1996)
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, February 14, 2012
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Keeping Your Pets Safe this Valentines Day!
Valentines Day is right around the corner. And yes it may be fun for us, humans, but it can harmful to your pets, One big way to show love for your pets is by keeping them safe. Valentine’s Day is famous for chocolates, flowers, cocktails and candy – all things that can be particularly harmful to our four-legged loved ones. Here are some helpful tips I have gathered from various pet websites to keep them safe and avoid any emergency trips to the veterinarian!
Flowers: Lilies are potentially fatal to cats. As pretty as they are, make sure to have an arrangement without lilies. Thorns on roses or other flowers can be dangerous for dogs or other pets. Biting, stepping on or swallowing stems with thorns increases risk for a puncture, which can result in serious infections internally or externally.
Chocolate: Although a favorite gift to give our human loved ones, chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic, but dark, milk, semi-sweet and baker's chocolates all can cause adverse reactions. Make sure to keep the chocolate where pets can't reach it.
Cocktails: Simply put, they pose a threat to your pets. Because of a pet’s small size, even a tiny amount of alcohol can cause problems. Be sure to keep those libations out of reach!
Candles: If ingested, candle wax can cause choking, upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea. Be sure to blow out any unattended candles when you leave the room, as cats are notorious for jumping up on counters and other high surfaces!
Toss the ribbon and string: Gifts are a nice surprise on Valentine's Day, but make sure to throw away any pretty ribbons and string they've been tied with. "For some reason it's very instinctive for cats to eat it," warns Dr. Murray of ASPCA. "It gets caught in their intestines and can saw right through them and cause a perforation."
Keep sugar-free foods out of your pet's reach:Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many types of sugar-free candies and baked goods, is toxic to dogs and can cause liver failure, says Dr. Murray. It's best to read the ingredients list on any sugar-free foods and keep any products containing Xylitol out of your pet's reach.
**Should your pet get into mischief on Valentine's Day, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year at (888) 426-4435. (A $65 consultation fee may apply.)
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
Flowers: Lilies are potentially fatal to cats. As pretty as they are, make sure to have an arrangement without lilies. Thorns on roses or other flowers can be dangerous for dogs or other pets. Biting, stepping on or swallowing stems with thorns increases risk for a puncture, which can result in serious infections internally or externally.
Chocolate: Although a favorite gift to give our human loved ones, chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic, but dark, milk, semi-sweet and baker's chocolates all can cause adverse reactions. Make sure to keep the chocolate where pets can't reach it.
Cocktails: Simply put, they pose a threat to your pets. Because of a pet’s small size, even a tiny amount of alcohol can cause problems. Be sure to keep those libations out of reach!
Candles: If ingested, candle wax can cause choking, upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea. Be sure to blow out any unattended candles when you leave the room, as cats are notorious for jumping up on counters and other high surfaces!
Toss the ribbon and string: Gifts are a nice surprise on Valentine's Day, but make sure to throw away any pretty ribbons and string they've been tied with. "For some reason it's very instinctive for cats to eat it," warns Dr. Murray of ASPCA. "It gets caught in their intestines and can saw right through them and cause a perforation."
Keep sugar-free foods out of your pet's reach:Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many types of sugar-free candies and baked goods, is toxic to dogs and can cause liver failure, says Dr. Murray. It's best to read the ingredients list on any sugar-free foods and keep any products containing Xylitol out of your pet's reach.
**Should your pet get into mischief on Valentine's Day, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year at (888) 426-4435. (A $65 consultation fee may apply.)
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, February 10, 2012
Caruso's *VALENTINES* OC Happenings
NORTH COUNTY
ANAHEIM
Join the House of Blues for a Valentine’s Day Menu for Two on February 14th starting at 5:00pm. Make your reservations today by calling 714-520-2334
BREA
Valentine ’s Day at 8:00 is the Valentine's Day Dinner Show with Christina Pazsitzky at the Brea Improv. Celebrate laughter and love this Valentine's Day with comedian Christina Pazsitzky and Tom Segura at the Brea Improv. Valentine’s Dinner includes: One glass of Champage(for guests 21 years & older), small Caesar salad, an entree selection of prime rib, Asiago crusted chicken or honey shrimp pasta and chocolate mousse for dessert. Reservations recommended. For information and/or reservations you can call (714) 482-0700. Must be 18+.
BUENA PARK
Why not spend Valentine's Day at Medieval Times?! Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament is offering a Valentine's Day Couple's Package. The package includes two admissions to dinner and tournament show, two admissions to castle dungeon museum, photo in a souvenir frame, a valentine scroll to remember the occasion, split of champagne with two logoed souvenir glasses, feather long-stem sweetheart rose and two cheering flags. Buy tickets in advanced online to guarantee the Couple's Package. For more information you can call 312-488-9883.
CYPRESS
Nothing to report
FULLERTON
Starting TONIGHT at 5:30 spend Valentine’s Day with the Cellar for “A Week of Love.” Don't wait until the last minute to make your plans for Valentines weekend. As Orange County’s most romantic dining destination, The Cellar Celebrates "A Week of Love" from February 10th through the 14th. The Cellar will serve a special four-course Valentines menu on February 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, and 14th. Dinner also includes a fresh long stem red rose, provided by Lavenders, and each guest will receive a certificate to create your own 3 course dinner for only $29.95 in the month of March.
GARDEN GROVE
Join the H. Louis Lake Senior Center for a Valentine Celebration Tuesday, Feb 14 from 10:00a to 12:00p. Join us as we celebrate a day of amour. Bring your Sweetie and enjoy music, dancing and fun, fun, fun!
LA HABRA
Nothing to report
LA PALMA
Nothing to report
PLACENTIA
Nothing to report
STANTON
Nothing to report
WESTMINSTER
Nothing to report
YORBA LINDA
Nothing to report
CENTRAL COUNTY
COSTA MESA
NOW through February 11, 2012 is the Pacific Symphony Presents: "Valentine's Day with Roberta Flack". Just in time for Valentine's Day, Grammy Award winner Roberta Flack visits Pacific Symphony with her intoxicating romantic ballads including "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," "Killing Me Softly With His Song," "Feel Like Making Love" and "Tonight I Celebrate My Love." Flack remains one of only two artists (the other is U2) to win back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record of the Year. For more information you can call 714-755-5799. Also on February 11th from 8pm-Midnight at The Hotel Hanford come dance, mingle, participate in giveaways and most important, have a good time. Men are asked to wear black suits and women should dress in shades of red, pink or purple. There will be Valentine's cards and candy hearts to giveaway to someone you have your eye on. 8 p.m.-12 midnight. For information you can call 312-488-9883.
FOUNTAIN VALLEY
Nothing to report
HUNTINGTON BEACH
Starting tomorrow, February 11-12, come and experience the charm of Old World Village Just in time for Valentine's Day! The Old World Village Chocolate & Wine Festival is sure to be an unforgettable and fun event, with something for everyone! Guests can expect to see chocolatiers, bakers, candy makers, wine vendors, and other chocolate and wine related vendors, arts and crafts and gift vendors too! Admission is FREE.
IRVINE
Valentine’s Day starting at 8pm is John Heffron Valentine's Day Special Event! Laugh with someone special and Valentine's Day with John Heffron. Two packages will be available; general admission and dinner. General admission includes a glass of champagne and a rose for the ladies. Dinner includes: admission, a dinner salad, your choices of entree, dessert, a glass of champagne and a rose for the ladies. Admission: $35 per person; dinner package: $70 per person. For more information you can call (949) 854-5455. Also TONIGHT from 6-10:30 p.m at the Equinox Sports Club is the 3rd Annual Valentine's Event! Dress to impress in your favorite red apparel and give your love to children in need. The evening will begin with a wine tasting and serving of hors d'oeuvres. There will be a silent auction, wine tasting and free massages. All of the proceeds will benefit the children supported by Corazon de Vida Foundation, Steps of Hope Outreach and Foster Care Auxiliary of Orange County. For more information you can call 949-476-1144, Ext. 7. Lastly, Valentine’s Day starting at 8pm is the 18th Annual Valentine's Celebration: Men in Blaque & UCI A Capella. Bring your sweetheart, friends or family and enjoy some wonderful music, conducted by Joseph Huszti. Attend a post-concert reception. For more information you can call (949) 824-2787.
LOS ALAMITOS
Coming up February 25, 2012 is the Los Alamitos 'Race on the Base'.
The yearly event has continued to provide not only a forum for local avid runners and walkers, but has also instilled a sense of pride and teamwork between the Los Alamitos City Council, the citizens of Los Alamitos, the Rossmoor Community Services District, and the local business community. The race is held on the run ways at the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos and features helicopters, planes and military vehicles with music throughout the course. Events and activities for the whole family! For more information you can call 562-430-1073.
NEWPORT BEACH
Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 12 - 3 pm bring your family to experience some of the same hands-on environmental education activities that you have enjoyed with the Inside the Outdoors Field Trips! Hike trails with an experienced Naturalist, participate in bird watching and join in educational activities about the estuary. Cost: Free (This program is generously sponsored by a grant.) For more information you can call (714) 708-3885.
ORANGE
Need a plan for Valentine’s Day? Celebrate with a Valentine's Day Dinner and Dance at Orange County Mining Co. Enjoy a table for two with a breathtaking view! This view restaurant in Orange County is truly a destination with a dining room that has "floor to ceiling picture windows" offering fabulous views of Orange County and a saloon that will take you back to the mining era. Call For Reservations! 714.997.7411.
SANTA ANA
This Sunday, February 12come and join the Bowers Museum for Sunday Afternoon Family Celebrations: Valentine's Day. Hearts, romantic verses, tea, goodies, stories and art make this day special to spend with your loved ones. The event starts at 1:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. For more information you can call (714) 567-3600. Also on February 14th at 1:30pm at the Bowers Museum is the Great Screen Icon Series: Great Romantic Movie Moments.From Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Watch your favorite movie duos and romantic film scenes in this upbeat ode to on-screen love. Dr. Michael Berlin, film expert, screenwriter and producer, will enchant you with the behind-the-scenes stories from some of our most beloved films.
SEAL BEACH
Nothing to report
TUSTIN
Nothing to report
VILLA PARK
Nothing to report
South County
ALISO VIEJO
This Saturday February 11, 2012 from 7 – 10pm at the Renaissance ClubSport is an Valentine's Day Love Lounge and Wine Tasting. Valentine's Day is the most romantic day of the year and deserves an extra special night to celebrate the occasion. Enjoy delicious appetizers and taste the most exotic white wines and romantic ruby reds. Then, indulge in our flowing sweet samplers and hand-passed champagne, all night long! You can cozy-up and relax, while listening to our live entertainment, or get out on the dance floor and move to the music! We invite you to extend your evening and stay the night for just $99.99! Reservations are required; space is limited to the first 50 couples. Childcare is available in Kids World until 10:00pm through our Valentine's Day Party Parent Escape. Members: $75 per couple Non-Members: $90 per couple. For more information or to register, please stop by the Club Desk or call (949)330-5560.
DANA POINT
Valentine’s Day is TUESDAY! From 4:00-6:00pmtry this unique and romantic way to celebrate Valentine's Day! You'll sail aboard the 95' Dana Pride at sunset as we search for whales, dolphin and other marine life set against the beautiful Orange County coastline. Chocolates and Valentine's Day treats are included as well as a complimentary glass of champagne for guests 21 and over! Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail from our cash bar as well! Be sure to make reservations at one of Dana Point Harbor's many romantic restaurants for after the cruise and you'll have an unforgettable evening! For reservations or more information you can call 949-496-5794. Also on Valentine’s Day at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is a wonderful Valentine's Package! This Valentine's Day escape to an Oceanside luxury resort at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Spend the night in a deluxe guestroom and wake up the following morning to a warm, complimentary breakfast buffet for two at “Vue” restaurant. Later on, visit “OverVue” lounge for a mouthwatering Donut Holes Delight Dessert. A bottle of house champagne awaits your arrival when you book this scintillating package for two.
LAGUNA HILLS
Nothing to report
LADERA RANCH
Nothing to report
LAGUNA BEACH
February 11 &14, 2012 is the Annual Four Course Valentine's Winemaker's Dinner. Enjoy fine epicurean creations paired with artisan boutique wines while listening to live music. Their 2012 Valentine's Winemaker's Dinner is $125.00 per person plus 21% service charge plus tax. Members receive a 10% discount. For more information you can call 949.715.9463 (Wine).
LAGUNA NIGUEL
Nothing to report
LAKE FOREST
Nothing to report
MISSION VIEJO
Nothing to report
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA
Nothing to report
SAN CLEMENTE
This Valentine’s Day from 5-7pm Casa Romantica invites guests to enjoy A Romantic Rendezvous on Valentine’s Day and will include live vocals and piano music by Elliot, delicious hors d’oeuvres, gourmet chocolates and champagne.
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Nothing to report
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
ANAHEIM
Join the House of Blues for a Valentine’s Day Menu for Two on February 14th starting at 5:00pm. Make your reservations today by calling 714-520-2334
BREA
Valentine ’s Day at 8:00 is the Valentine's Day Dinner Show with Christina Pazsitzky at the Brea Improv. Celebrate laughter and love this Valentine's Day with comedian Christina Pazsitzky and Tom Segura at the Brea Improv. Valentine’s Dinner includes: One glass of Champage(for guests 21 years & older), small Caesar salad, an entree selection of prime rib, Asiago crusted chicken or honey shrimp pasta and chocolate mousse for dessert. Reservations recommended. For information and/or reservations you can call (714) 482-0700. Must be 18+.
BUENA PARK
Why not spend Valentine's Day at Medieval Times?! Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament is offering a Valentine's Day Couple's Package. The package includes two admissions to dinner and tournament show, two admissions to castle dungeon museum, photo in a souvenir frame, a valentine scroll to remember the occasion, split of champagne with two logoed souvenir glasses, feather long-stem sweetheart rose and two cheering flags. Buy tickets in advanced online to guarantee the Couple's Package. For more information you can call 312-488-9883.
CYPRESS
Nothing to report
FULLERTON
Starting TONIGHT at 5:30 spend Valentine’s Day with the Cellar for “A Week of Love.” Don't wait until the last minute to make your plans for Valentines weekend. As Orange County’s most romantic dining destination, The Cellar Celebrates "A Week of Love" from February 10th through the 14th. The Cellar will serve a special four-course Valentines menu on February 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, and 14th. Dinner also includes a fresh long stem red rose, provided by Lavenders, and each guest will receive a certificate to create your own 3 course dinner for only $29.95 in the month of March.
GARDEN GROVE
Join the H. Louis Lake Senior Center for a Valentine Celebration Tuesday, Feb 14 from 10:00a to 12:00p. Join us as we celebrate a day of amour. Bring your Sweetie and enjoy music, dancing and fun, fun, fun!
LA HABRA
Nothing to report
LA PALMA
Nothing to report
PLACENTIA
Nothing to report
STANTON
Nothing to report
WESTMINSTER
Nothing to report
YORBA LINDA
Nothing to report
CENTRAL COUNTY
COSTA MESA
NOW through February 11, 2012 is the Pacific Symphony Presents: "Valentine's Day with Roberta Flack". Just in time for Valentine's Day, Grammy Award winner Roberta Flack visits Pacific Symphony with her intoxicating romantic ballads including "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," "Killing Me Softly With His Song," "Feel Like Making Love" and "Tonight I Celebrate My Love." Flack remains one of only two artists (the other is U2) to win back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record of the Year. For more information you can call 714-755-5799. Also on February 11th from 8pm-Midnight at The Hotel Hanford come dance, mingle, participate in giveaways and most important, have a good time. Men are asked to wear black suits and women should dress in shades of red, pink or purple. There will be Valentine's cards and candy hearts to giveaway to someone you have your eye on. 8 p.m.-12 midnight. For information you can call 312-488-9883.
FOUNTAIN VALLEY
Nothing to report
HUNTINGTON BEACH
Starting tomorrow, February 11-12, come and experience the charm of Old World Village Just in time for Valentine's Day! The Old World Village Chocolate & Wine Festival is sure to be an unforgettable and fun event, with something for everyone! Guests can expect to see chocolatiers, bakers, candy makers, wine vendors, and other chocolate and wine related vendors, arts and crafts and gift vendors too! Admission is FREE.
IRVINE
Valentine’s Day starting at 8pm is John Heffron Valentine's Day Special Event! Laugh with someone special and Valentine's Day with John Heffron. Two packages will be available; general admission and dinner. General admission includes a glass of champagne and a rose for the ladies. Dinner includes: admission, a dinner salad, your choices of entree, dessert, a glass of champagne and a rose for the ladies. Admission: $35 per person; dinner package: $70 per person. For more information you can call (949) 854-5455. Also TONIGHT from 6-10:30 p.m at the Equinox Sports Club is the 3rd Annual Valentine's Event! Dress to impress in your favorite red apparel and give your love to children in need. The evening will begin with a wine tasting and serving of hors d'oeuvres. There will be a silent auction, wine tasting and free massages. All of the proceeds will benefit the children supported by Corazon de Vida Foundation, Steps of Hope Outreach and Foster Care Auxiliary of Orange County. For more information you can call 949-476-1144, Ext. 7. Lastly, Valentine’s Day starting at 8pm is the 18th Annual Valentine's Celebration: Men in Blaque & UCI A Capella. Bring your sweetheart, friends or family and enjoy some wonderful music, conducted by Joseph Huszti. Attend a post-concert reception. For more information you can call (949) 824-2787.
LOS ALAMITOS
Coming up February 25, 2012 is the Los Alamitos 'Race on the Base'.
The yearly event has continued to provide not only a forum for local avid runners and walkers, but has also instilled a sense of pride and teamwork between the Los Alamitos City Council, the citizens of Los Alamitos, the Rossmoor Community Services District, and the local business community. The race is held on the run ways at the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos and features helicopters, planes and military vehicles with music throughout the course. Events and activities for the whole family! For more information you can call 562-430-1073.
NEWPORT BEACH
Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 12 - 3 pm bring your family to experience some of the same hands-on environmental education activities that you have enjoyed with the Inside the Outdoors Field Trips! Hike trails with an experienced Naturalist, participate in bird watching and join in educational activities about the estuary. Cost: Free (This program is generously sponsored by a grant.) For more information you can call (714) 708-3885.
ORANGE
Need a plan for Valentine’s Day? Celebrate with a Valentine's Day Dinner and Dance at Orange County Mining Co. Enjoy a table for two with a breathtaking view! This view restaurant in Orange County is truly a destination with a dining room that has "floor to ceiling picture windows" offering fabulous views of Orange County and a saloon that will take you back to the mining era. Call For Reservations! 714.997.7411.
SANTA ANA
This Sunday, February 12come and join the Bowers Museum for Sunday Afternoon Family Celebrations: Valentine's Day. Hearts, romantic verses, tea, goodies, stories and art make this day special to spend with your loved ones. The event starts at 1:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. For more information you can call (714) 567-3600. Also on February 14th at 1:30pm at the Bowers Museum is the Great Screen Icon Series: Great Romantic Movie Moments.From Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Watch your favorite movie duos and romantic film scenes in this upbeat ode to on-screen love. Dr. Michael Berlin, film expert, screenwriter and producer, will enchant you with the behind-the-scenes stories from some of our most beloved films.
SEAL BEACH
Nothing to report
TUSTIN
Nothing to report
VILLA PARK
Nothing to report
South County
ALISO VIEJO
This Saturday February 11, 2012 from 7 – 10pm at the Renaissance ClubSport is an Valentine's Day Love Lounge and Wine Tasting. Valentine's Day is the most romantic day of the year and deserves an extra special night to celebrate the occasion. Enjoy delicious appetizers and taste the most exotic white wines and romantic ruby reds. Then, indulge in our flowing sweet samplers and hand-passed champagne, all night long! You can cozy-up and relax, while listening to our live entertainment, or get out on the dance floor and move to the music! We invite you to extend your evening and stay the night for just $99.99! Reservations are required; space is limited to the first 50 couples. Childcare is available in Kids World until 10:00pm through our Valentine's Day Party Parent Escape. Members: $75 per couple Non-Members: $90 per couple. For more information or to register, please stop by the Club Desk or call (949)330-5560.
DANA POINT
Valentine’s Day is TUESDAY! From 4:00-6:00pmtry this unique and romantic way to celebrate Valentine's Day! You'll sail aboard the 95' Dana Pride at sunset as we search for whales, dolphin and other marine life set against the beautiful Orange County coastline. Chocolates and Valentine's Day treats are included as well as a complimentary glass of champagne for guests 21 and over! Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail from our cash bar as well! Be sure to make reservations at one of Dana Point Harbor's many romantic restaurants for after the cruise and you'll have an unforgettable evening! For reservations or more information you can call 949-496-5794. Also on Valentine’s Day at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is a wonderful Valentine's Package! This Valentine's Day escape to an Oceanside luxury resort at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Spend the night in a deluxe guestroom and wake up the following morning to a warm, complimentary breakfast buffet for two at “Vue” restaurant. Later on, visit “OverVue” lounge for a mouthwatering Donut Holes Delight Dessert. A bottle of house champagne awaits your arrival when you book this scintillating package for two.
LAGUNA HILLS
Nothing to report
LADERA RANCH
Nothing to report
LAGUNA BEACH
February 11 &14, 2012 is the Annual Four Course Valentine's Winemaker's Dinner. Enjoy fine epicurean creations paired with artisan boutique wines while listening to live music. Their 2012 Valentine's Winemaker's Dinner is $125.00 per person plus 21% service charge plus tax. Members receive a 10% discount. For more information you can call 949.715.9463 (Wine).
LAGUNA NIGUEL
Nothing to report
LAKE FOREST
Nothing to report
MISSION VIEJO
Nothing to report
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA
Nothing to report
SAN CLEMENTE
This Valentine’s Day from 5-7pm Casa Romantica invites guests to enjoy A Romantic Rendezvous on Valentine’s Day and will include live vocals and piano music by Elliot, delicious hors d’oeuvres, gourmet chocolates and champagne.
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Nothing to report
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, February 9, 2012
Caruso's Green Tip of the Day ~ Cleaners
Make your own cleaners.
Household chemicals, including some cleaners, contain volatile organic chemicals, which contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause disease.
A cost-effective way to make your home greener is to make your own household cleaners.
Many homemade cleaners use non-toxic ingredients and clean just as well as commercial cleaners.
*Making your own cleaner costs about 10% of the price a bottle of commercial cleaner, according to Karen Logan, author of "Clean House, Clean Planet." She says a bottle of her all-purpose cleaner costs 23 cents to make, versus a price tag of $2.69 for the off-the-shelf equivalent. If making your own cleaners isn't an option, look for cleaners carrying the Green Seal. Green Seal is a nonprofit organization that certifies products based on their environmental impact, biodegradability and other factors.
And that's your green tip of the day!
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
Household chemicals, including some cleaners, contain volatile organic chemicals, which contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause disease.
A cost-effective way to make your home greener is to make your own household cleaners.
Many homemade cleaners use non-toxic ingredients and clean just as well as commercial cleaners.
*Making your own cleaner costs about 10% of the price a bottle of commercial cleaner, according to Karen Logan, author of "Clean House, Clean Planet." She says a bottle of her all-purpose cleaner costs 23 cents to make, versus a price tag of $2.69 for the off-the-shelf equivalent. If making your own cleaners isn't an option, look for cleaners carrying the Green Seal. Green Seal is a nonprofit organization that certifies products based on their environmental impact, biodegradability and other factors.
And that's your green tip of the day!
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, February 8, 2012
Caruso's Quick Website Tips!
We are already into the New Year. Towards the end of 2011 I talked about updating your business & marketing plans for the New Year! However, did you also include a review of your website? Your website is a VERY important part of your business. After reading through the e-pro blog, here are some quick tips for when you review your website!
Refresh the about page. Your About page is usually the second-most visited page of any site, which means it’s an important page that needs to put a friendly ‘face’ on the company. Rewrite it to include fresh company news — awards won, new products introduced, offices opened or new team members who’ve joined.
Check your links and content.Make sure all your links are active, nothing worse that orphaned links. Read through your website. Is all your content still relevant? If not spruce it up and throw out the old photos and content.
Are Google Analytics installed and configured? Plan to review your web stats regularly. After monitoring these stats on a regular basis you will start to understand some powerful information that will help you change your website and make it better.
Google analytics now offers some new features including:
· Visitor flow - what page they enter your site, where they go and where they exit, but visually
· Mobile visitors - which mobile devices visit your site
· Last – is your site mobile friendly? Visit http://www.howtogomo.com/en/#homepage and check out how your website looks on mobile devices and get some great ideas on how to make vital changes.
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
Refresh the about page. Your About page is usually the second-most visited page of any site, which means it’s an important page that needs to put a friendly ‘face’ on the company. Rewrite it to include fresh company news — awards won, new products introduced, offices opened or new team members who’ve joined.
Check your links and content.Make sure all your links are active, nothing worse that orphaned links. Read through your website. Is all your content still relevant? If not spruce it up and throw out the old photos and content.
Are Google Analytics installed and configured? Plan to review your web stats regularly. After monitoring these stats on a regular basis you will start to understand some powerful information that will help you change your website and make it better.
Google analytics now offers some new features including:
· Visitor flow - what page they enter your site, where they go and where they exit, but visually
· Mobile visitors - which mobile devices visit your site
· Last – is your site mobile friendly? Visit http://www.howtogomo.com/en/#homepage and check out how your website looks on mobile devices and get some great ideas on how to make vital changes.
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, February 7, 2012
Caruso's 5 Most Effective Social Media Tactics!
After reading from socialmediatoday.com here are the 5 most effective Social Media tactics that have given the best results for our clients in the real estate industry.
1. Property Search tool with a Facebook Page
This technique works great for Realtors. It allows your FB page visitors to search your available properties right from the Facebook page. Now that Facebook uses Iframes for all its pages it is easier to add more web functionality to a Facebook page. One of the most fundamental aspects of a Realtor's website is the property search tool so it makes sense to allow customers to use this tool without leaving Facebook.
2. Youtube T.V. Channel
Youtube Channels can be hugely powerful for the Real Estate industry if done professionally. Most Realtors add video "Walk Around" or slide shows to show interiors of property. These videos are uploaded to Youtube. Using Youtube will improve online visibility and SEO for the company's website.
3. Youtube App for Facebook Page
Get a Youtube app for the Facebook page. Everything you upload to the Youtube Channel will automatically be fed to the Facebook Page making it easier for your Facebook page visitors to view more of your clients' properties. The App recommended by socialmediatoday.com is the Involver Youtube App. It's free for a start and it doesn't divert the viewer straight to Youtube to be bombarded by Realtors who have uploaded similar videos. It keeps the viewers on the current FB page allowing them to view more videos or engage in other ways on the page.
4. Geo Location Keyword Search
Perfect for realtors! Tools like Hootsuite have this fantastic feature. It allows you to keyword search for potentially prime customers who are looking for property in a particular area.
5. Use Linkedin to find Clients
LinkedIn has many purposes for the Real Estate Social Media Manager. If you would like to find landlords, property developers, home builders, etc. in order to rent or sell those properties on their behalf, then the LinkedIn property groups are a perfect place to start.
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
1. Property Search tool with a Facebook Page
This technique works great for Realtors. It allows your FB page visitors to search your available properties right from the Facebook page. Now that Facebook uses Iframes for all its pages it is easier to add more web functionality to a Facebook page. One of the most fundamental aspects of a Realtor's website is the property search tool so it makes sense to allow customers to use this tool without leaving Facebook.
2. Youtube T.V. Channel
Youtube Channels can be hugely powerful for the Real Estate industry if done professionally. Most Realtors add video "Walk Around" or slide shows to show interiors of property. These videos are uploaded to Youtube. Using Youtube will improve online visibility and SEO for the company's website.
3. Youtube App for Facebook Page
Get a Youtube app for the Facebook page. Everything you upload to the Youtube Channel will automatically be fed to the Facebook Page making it easier for your Facebook page visitors to view more of your clients' properties. The App recommended by socialmediatoday.com is the Involver Youtube App. It's free for a start and it doesn't divert the viewer straight to Youtube to be bombarded by Realtors who have uploaded similar videos. It keeps the viewers on the current FB page allowing them to view more videos or engage in other ways on the page.
4. Geo Location Keyword Search
Perfect for realtors! Tools like Hootsuite have this fantastic feature. It allows you to keyword search for potentially prime customers who are looking for property in a particular area.
5. Use Linkedin to find Clients
LinkedIn has many purposes for the Real Estate Social Media Manager. If you would like to find landlords, property developers, home builders, etc. in order to rent or sell those properties on their behalf, then the LinkedIn property groups are a perfect place to start.
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, February 4, 2012
Caruso Funny ~ How Scottish Policemen enforce the Road Rules
A London Lawyer in his flash new BMW is pulled over by a Scottish policeman.
He says, "Sir, I pulled you over because you didn't stop at the STOP sign. That'll be a 100 pound fine"
The lawyer looks at him "100 pound?!!!", then pretty agitated: "Look, I slowed down all right? What difference does it make, I slowed down surely that's enough."
The policeman raises a brow and looks at him: "Sir, it's a STOP sign, so that means you have to stop not just slow down."
The lawyer rolls his eyes, thinks for a moment and then says arrogantly, "Okay, I'll tell you what, if you can show me how it makes a difference whether I slow down or stop, then I'll pay the fine."
The policeman says "all right then" pulls out his baton and starts to bash the lawyer.
The lawyer screams "what are you doing?"
The policeman says calmly "Do you want me to slow down or stop?"
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
He says, "Sir, I pulled you over because you didn't stop at the STOP sign. That'll be a 100 pound fine"
The lawyer looks at him "100 pound?!!!", then pretty agitated: "Look, I slowed down all right? What difference does it make, I slowed down surely that's enough."
The policeman raises a brow and looks at him: "Sir, it's a STOP sign, so that means you have to stop not just slow down."
The lawyer rolls his eyes, thinks for a moment and then says arrogantly, "Okay, I'll tell you what, if you can show me how it makes a difference whether I slow down or stop, then I'll pay the fine."
The policeman says "all right then" pulls out his baton and starts to bash the lawyer.
The lawyer screams "what are you doing?"
The policeman says calmly "Do you want me to slow down or stop?"
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, February 3, 2012
Cost vs. Value with Caruso!
When tackling home remodeling projects, you’ll find some projects pay off more than others at times of resale. Remodeling Magazine, in conjunction with REALTOR® Magazine, recently released findings of its annual Cost vs. Value report for 2011-2012, revealing which remodeling projects offer the biggest bang for your buck.
Overall, the trend right now is replacement over remodeling–swapping out the old for the new rather than doing a total gut job, which can be much more costly.
This year’s Cost vs. Value report found that exterior replacement projects–such as new garage doors and a new entry door–offer some of the best returns at resale, allowing home owners to recoup close to 70 percent or more of the costs of the project at times of resale.
The following are the top, mid-range projects from this year’s report, based on what home owners stand to recoup at time of resale:
1. Replacing the entry door to steel
Estimated cost: $1,238
Cost recouped at resale: 73%
2. Attic bedroom (converting unfinished attic space into a bedroom with bathroom and shower)
Estimated cost: $50,148
Cost recouped at resale: 72.5%
3. Minor kitchen remodel (including new cabinets and drawers, countertops, hardware, and appliances)
Estimated cost: $19,588
Cost recouped at resale: 72.1%
4. Garage door replacement
Estimated cost: $1,512
Cost recouped at resale: 71.9%
5. Deck addition (wood)
Estimated cost: $10,350
Cost recouped at resale: 70.1%
6. Siding replacement (vinyl)
Estimated cost: $11,729
Cost recouped at resale: 69.5%
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
Overall, the trend right now is replacement over remodeling–swapping out the old for the new rather than doing a total gut job, which can be much more costly.
This year’s Cost vs. Value report found that exterior replacement projects–such as new garage doors and a new entry door–offer some of the best returns at resale, allowing home owners to recoup close to 70 percent or more of the costs of the project at times of resale.
The following are the top, mid-range projects from this year’s report, based on what home owners stand to recoup at time of resale:
1. Replacing the entry door to steel
Estimated cost: $1,238
Cost recouped at resale: 73%
2. Attic bedroom (converting unfinished attic space into a bedroom with bathroom and shower)
Estimated cost: $50,148
Cost recouped at resale: 72.5%
3. Minor kitchen remodel (including new cabinets and drawers, countertops, hardware, and appliances)
Estimated cost: $19,588
Cost recouped at resale: 72.1%
4. Garage door replacement
Estimated cost: $1,512
Cost recouped at resale: 71.9%
5. Deck addition (wood)
Estimated cost: $10,350
Cost recouped at resale: 70.1%
6. Siding replacement (vinyl)
Estimated cost: $11,729
Cost recouped at resale: 69.5%
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, February 2, 2012
Caruso's Tips for a Better Listing Presentation!
1. Start with a guesstimate. Before your listing presentation, have a price range in mind. A quick chat or two with your colleagues and your own understanding of the neighborhood can help you come up with an informed guesstimate.
2. Firm up with comps. A search through recent comps as you work up your competitive market analysis will help firm up the price range.
3. Look for price trends. Bring to your presentation a summary of price trends in the neighborhood. Be prepared to share it - even leave it - with the sellers. That can help ground sellers who may be reaching for pie in the sky.
4. Case the community. As you drive up to the house and walk in, size up the neighborhood and the condition of the house. How does the home visually compare with the homes around it? How will that affect the price?
5. Take the economic pulse. Review your cities general economic forecast for the next several months. If economics makes your eyes glaze over, you need keep only one key factor in mind, say economists: local employment. Local employment - not national - is the key to housing turnover in communities and an indication of how long houses stay on the market in your area. Is employment high in your community? Or has a major company just laid off a significant number of workers?
6. Are there new houses? Check out the kind and quantity of new housing construction. That could change the balance of supply and demand and give you a clue as to how long your listing will stay on the market.
7. Consider the sellers urgency. Sellers anxious to get out of Dodge may be willing to come down or even start low. Ask the sellers why they’re selling; listen to their answers and watch their body language for hints on what your follow-up questions should be.
8. Ask for a built-in price reduction up front. Get an agreement from the seller up front that if the house hasn’t sold in X weeks or months, you may lower the asking price to a preset figure.
9. Know when to say no. An unrealistic selling price can strangle the transaction or get so time consuming you don’t have a moment to develop new business. The homework you’ve done in steps 1-8 above has prepared you to make this vital call. If the sellers refuse to set a listing price you consider realistic, be prepared to walk away from the listing.
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
2. Firm up with comps. A search through recent comps as you work up your competitive market analysis will help firm up the price range.
3. Look for price trends. Bring to your presentation a summary of price trends in the neighborhood. Be prepared to share it - even leave it - with the sellers. That can help ground sellers who may be reaching for pie in the sky.
4. Case the community. As you drive up to the house and walk in, size up the neighborhood and the condition of the house. How does the home visually compare with the homes around it? How will that affect the price?
5. Take the economic pulse. Review your cities general economic forecast for the next several months. If economics makes your eyes glaze over, you need keep only one key factor in mind, say economists: local employment. Local employment - not national - is the key to housing turnover in communities and an indication of how long houses stay on the market in your area. Is employment high in your community? Or has a major company just laid off a significant number of workers?
6. Are there new houses? Check out the kind and quantity of new housing construction. That could change the balance of supply and demand and give you a clue as to how long your listing will stay on the market.
7. Consider the sellers urgency. Sellers anxious to get out of Dodge may be willing to come down or even start low. Ask the sellers why they’re selling; listen to their answers and watch their body language for hints on what your follow-up questions should be.
8. Ask for a built-in price reduction up front. Get an agreement from the seller up front that if the house hasn’t sold in X weeks or months, you may lower the asking price to a preset figure.
9. Know when to say no. An unrealistic selling price can strangle the transaction or get so time consuming you don’t have a moment to develop new business. The homework you’ve done in steps 1-8 above has prepared you to make this vital call. If the sellers refuse to set a listing price you consider realistic, be prepared to walk away from the listing.
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, February 1, 2012
Caruso's Economic Update!
The first set of earnings released in January focused upon the financial sector. In all, the reports by larger national and regional banks were disappointing and showed that we are not out of the woods with regard to the legacy of bad loans piled up on the asset sheets of banks during the recession. While the economy recovers, debt loads of banks and nations will prove to be a drag on growth. This is why analysts are looking at the good economic releases we have experienced in the past few months and are still remaining cautious. For the consumer, this situation actually represents good news. A recovery that does not get too strong too fast will continue to translate into record low interest rates for a longer period of time. If it were not for Europe or the banks right now, the sale on our nation's real estate would be over much more quickly. On the other hand, looser credit standards will not come until banks dig out from their credit morass. We are not likely to have looser credit standards and record low rates at the same time as the two just don't go hand-in-hand.
Home affordability is at 1971 levels, due to falling home prices and record low rates, pushing home ownership in reach to many more families, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Home owners are bringing in nearly double the median income they need to cover the cost of an average home, Housing Predictor reports. "With rates at historically low levels and markets across the country beginning to improve, home ownership is within reach of more households,” Bob Nielsen, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, said in a statement. Home sales have been ticking up, according to recent reports by the National Association of Realtors® and the National Association of Home Builders, Source: Housing Predictor
The apartment vacancy rate is at its lowest level since late 2001 as the rental market continues to soar, according to the latest fourth-quarter data by Reis Inc. As demand increases, the vacancy rate for apartments dropped in the fourth quarter to 5.2 percent compared to 6.6 percent a year prior. Meanwhile, as the rental market takes off, builders are rushing to play catch up in building new units to meet the demand. In 2011, Zelman & Associates estimates that more than 173,000 units were started, and about 225,000 and 280,000 starts are expected in 2012 and 2013. Source: The Wall Street Journal
Borrowers who have a history of paying rent on time may see a boost to their credit score. Experian, a leading credit report company, added a section to its credit reports last year that reflected on-time rent payments, which helped give a boost in the credit scores to some on-time rent payers. Now the two other major credit reporting companies are following suit. CoreLogic and FICO recently announced they are also adding a score that reflects payment histories from landlords, The New York Times reports.
No discussion of the prospects for our economy in 2012 would be complete without an examination of the housing sector. As daunting as the debt crisis in Europe is, there is no doubt that the real "x" factor is housing. This topic is so complex that it is hard to sort out. For example, we know that the housing sector will not rebound without employment strengthening. But we also know that the housing sector is very important in creating employment. If that sounds like a catch-22, it is. And it is one of the main reasons our recovery has been tepid up to now. We also believe that it is no coincidence that the housing market seems to be improving now that the employment sector is also getting stronger. Of course, we will know more about how strong the employment sector is in a few days because Friday we will see the release of January's employment report.
Regardless of the results of this report, we do know employment growth was stronger in 2011 -- especially towards the end of the year. In January first time unemployment claims fell to their lowest levels since April of 2008. We also know that existing home sales and starts for single family homes also have increased in the last quarter of 2011. Again, no coincidence. The National Association of Home Builders has indicated that every single family home built creates three jobs. To put it another way, just over 425,000 single family homes were built last year. That is over one million jobs. Sound impressive? It is still a few million jobs less than the sector produced during the real estate boom years. An increase of 100,000 houses this year would create 300,000 additional jobs and that does not include the apartment sector which is starting to boom and the commercial sector which has yet to awaken from its slumber. Conceivably, we could see close to 500,000 additional jobs created this year with modest growth in building. Even more importantly, those jobs create even more demand for housing. Will this happen?
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
Home affordability is at 1971 levels, due to falling home prices and record low rates, pushing home ownership in reach to many more families, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Home owners are bringing in nearly double the median income they need to cover the cost of an average home, Housing Predictor reports. "With rates at historically low levels and markets across the country beginning to improve, home ownership is within reach of more households,” Bob Nielsen, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, said in a statement. Home sales have been ticking up, according to recent reports by the National Association of Realtors® and the National Association of Home Builders, Source: Housing Predictor
The apartment vacancy rate is at its lowest level since late 2001 as the rental market continues to soar, according to the latest fourth-quarter data by Reis Inc. As demand increases, the vacancy rate for apartments dropped in the fourth quarter to 5.2 percent compared to 6.6 percent a year prior. Meanwhile, as the rental market takes off, builders are rushing to play catch up in building new units to meet the demand. In 2011, Zelman & Associates estimates that more than 173,000 units were started, and about 225,000 and 280,000 starts are expected in 2012 and 2013. Source: The Wall Street Journal
Borrowers who have a history of paying rent on time may see a boost to their credit score. Experian, a leading credit report company, added a section to its credit reports last year that reflected on-time rent payments, which helped give a boost in the credit scores to some on-time rent payers. Now the two other major credit reporting companies are following suit. CoreLogic and FICO recently announced they are also adding a score that reflects payment histories from landlords, The New York Times reports.
No discussion of the prospects for our economy in 2012 would be complete without an examination of the housing sector. As daunting as the debt crisis in Europe is, there is no doubt that the real "x" factor is housing. This topic is so complex that it is hard to sort out. For example, we know that the housing sector will not rebound without employment strengthening. But we also know that the housing sector is very important in creating employment. If that sounds like a catch-22, it is. And it is one of the main reasons our recovery has been tepid up to now. We also believe that it is no coincidence that the housing market seems to be improving now that the employment sector is also getting stronger. Of course, we will know more about how strong the employment sector is in a few days because Friday we will see the release of January's employment report.
Regardless of the results of this report, we do know employment growth was stronger in 2011 -- especially towards the end of the year. In January first time unemployment claims fell to their lowest levels since April of 2008. We also know that existing home sales and starts for single family homes also have increased in the last quarter of 2011. Again, no coincidence. The National Association of Home Builders has indicated that every single family home built creates three jobs. To put it another way, just over 425,000 single family homes were built last year. That is over one million jobs. Sound impressive? It is still a few million jobs less than the sector produced during the real estate boom years. An increase of 100,000 houses this year would create 300,000 additional jobs and that does not include the apartment sector which is starting to boom and the commercial sector which has yet to awaken from its slumber. Conceivably, we could see close to 500,000 additional jobs created this year with modest growth in building. Even more importantly, those jobs create even more demand for housing. Will this happen?
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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