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 AUGUST:
The SJC Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 28 listings closed escrow
2010 24 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 6 listings closed escrow
The SJC Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 6 listings closed escrow
2010 3listings 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
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Caruso's *SAN CLEMENTE* Closed Sales Report ~ August
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 AUGUST:
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 20 listings closed escrow
2010 24listings closed escrow
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:
2011 35 listings closed escrow
2010 35 listings closed escrow
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 5 listings closed escrow
2010 8listings 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
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for AUGUST:
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 20 listings closed escrow
2010 24listings closed escrow
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:
2011 35 listings closed escrow
2010 35 listings closed escrow
The San Clemente Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 5 listings closed escrow
2010 8listings 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, September 28, 2011
Caruso's *DANA POINT* Closed Sales Report ~ August
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 AUGUST:
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 14 listings closed escrow
2010 14 listings closed escrow
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:
2011 23 listings closed escrow
2010 17 listings closed escrow
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 3 listings closed escrow
2010 4 listings closed escrow
*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards,
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI
Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for AUGUST:
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 14 listings closed escrow
2010 14 listings closed escrow
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:
2011 23 listings closed escrow
2010 17 listings closed escrow
The Dana Point Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 3 listings closed escrow
2010 4 listings closed escrow
*Does a sales report tell the whole story about market environment, consumer sentiment and the value of your home? Is it time to sell? Is it time to add a property to your investment portfolio? Is the market changing, and in which direction?
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards,
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI
Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
How one dumb post killed the real estate deal!
I read an article on MSN about how we share too much personal information online on via social media sites. One tweet, one post could kill the deal or the negotiations.
One homebuyer learned the hard way when she posted on her facebook page. She posted, “Found our dream house!” and she named the highly sought after neighborhood where she had been looking for several months.
She didn't think anyone but those in her small circle of friends were reading the post, said her realtor. "Unfortunately, a friend saw the post and shared it with a pal who was looking in the same neighborhood." The friend of the friend moved in quickly. She tracked down the listing agent and offered more money, snatching the home from under the Facebook poster, who later learned through the grapevine how she'd shot herself in the foot with her post.
Another example is when you’re in negotiations. Too many people are so entwined with Twitter and social media that they find it hard to not disclose every detail of their lives. A buyer will tweet. “I just put in an offer. Cross your fingers for me. But I'll do whatever it takes. I'll go another $20,000 higher.” While another may post, “I’ll do whatever it takes to get this home sold, long escrow…sell it way below the listed price…”
Agents can also misuse social media and hurt themselves! They may complain about the listing, the open house, the buyers, the sellers or another agent. A post like this, "Sitting at an open house, again! This listing is totally overpriced." can also violate an agent's duty, to keep client information confidential.
Unless you adjust the privacy of your facebook wall and ensure that your profile doesn't come up in facebook search results, strangers could read your posts just by searching for you. On Twitter, you have a number of choices when it comes to privacy. If you don't want your followers sharing or re-tweeting your messages to others, or if you don't want the general public to see your tweets, check ‘protect my tweets’.
Take care that what you say cannot be used against you, says Gahlord Dewald, an expert in online technology who specializes in real-estate marketing and analytics. Be very neutral in what you say. Agents, many of whom are natural communicators, were among the early adopters of social media, using the platforms to market their services and connect with clients. It pays to be discreet. I’ll tweet to that!
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
One homebuyer learned the hard way when she posted on her facebook page. She posted, “Found our dream house!” and she named the highly sought after neighborhood where she had been looking for several months.
She didn't think anyone but those in her small circle of friends were reading the post, said her realtor. "Unfortunately, a friend saw the post and shared it with a pal who was looking in the same neighborhood." The friend of the friend moved in quickly. She tracked down the listing agent and offered more money, snatching the home from under the Facebook poster, who later learned through the grapevine how she'd shot herself in the foot with her post.
Another example is when you’re in negotiations. Too many people are so entwined with Twitter and social media that they find it hard to not disclose every detail of their lives. A buyer will tweet. “I just put in an offer. Cross your fingers for me. But I'll do whatever it takes. I'll go another $20,000 higher.” While another may post, “I’ll do whatever it takes to get this home sold, long escrow…sell it way below the listed price…”
Agents can also misuse social media and hurt themselves! They may complain about the listing, the open house, the buyers, the sellers or another agent. A post like this, "Sitting at an open house, again! This listing is totally overpriced." can also violate an agent's duty, to keep client information confidential.
Unless you adjust the privacy of your facebook wall and ensure that your profile doesn't come up in facebook search results, strangers could read your posts just by searching for you. On Twitter, you have a number of choices when it comes to privacy. If you don't want your followers sharing or re-tweeting your messages to others, or if you don't want the general public to see your tweets, check ‘protect my tweets’.
Take care that what you say cannot be used against you, says Gahlord Dewald, an expert in online technology who specializes in real-estate marketing and analytics. Be very neutral in what you say. Agents, many of whom are natural communicators, were among the early adopters of social media, using the platforms to market their services and connect with clients. It pays to be discreet. I’ll tweet to that!
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards,
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI
Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900
Caruso's *LAGUNA NIGUEL* Closed Sales Report ~ August
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 AUGUST:
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 52 listings closed escrow
2010 38 listings closed escrow
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:
2011 36 listings closed escrow
2010 35 listings closed escrow
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 7 listings closed escrow
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? 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
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for AUGUST:
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the 0-$500,000 Range:
2011 52 listings closed escrow
2010 38 listings closed escrow
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $500,000-$1,000,000 Range:
2011 36 listings closed escrow
2010 35 listings closed escrow
The Laguna Niguel Closed Sales Report for Homes Sold in the $1,000,000+Range:
2011 7 listings closed escrow
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? 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
Friday, September 23, 2011
Caruso's OC Happenings!!!
NORTH COUNTY
ANAHEIM
NOW through October 30th is the annual Oktoberfest at the Phoenix Club every Friday, Saturday & Sunday. This event features Ompapah Bands from Germany, Authentic German Food & Drink, Folk Dancers, and German Items for Sale. This is a fun event for the whole family with Train Rides, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides and entertainment. No admission charges the first weekend this year! For more information you can call 714-563-4166.
BREA
Nothing to report
BUENA PARK
Mark your calendars for Silverado Days (William Peak Park
7225 El Dorado Drive) this October 14-16. This event is held each October. This community festival includes games, crafts, contests, rides, food and fun for the whole family. Featured contests include World Amateur Arm Wrestling Championship, Custom Car Show, a pie-eating contest, hog calling, baby contest, dog show, petting zoo, chili cook-off and much more!!
CYPRESS
It’s almost that time of the year again! Coming up on Halloween, October 31st is the annual City of Cypress Halloween Carnival from 6-9pm! This event includes Food, Game Booths, Prizes, Entertainment, Costume Contests and Spook Alley. Admission- $3, children under 1 year old are free. Professional pictures will be available for $10 (cash only). For more information you can call 714-229-6780.
FULLERTON
Coming up Saturday, October 29, 2011 is the annual Memory Walk (Cal State Fullerton).The Memory Walk is part of a national movement to help those battling Alzheimer's and related memory loss disorders. As one of the largest Memory Walks in the country, it features a 2-mile walk, Kidz Zone, Doggie Dugout, Remembrance Garden, Food Vendors, Festival Area with over 50 exhibitors, live entertainment and more! For details, contact Shannon Kincaid at (949) 757-3708.
GARDEN GROVE
Nothing to report.
LA HABRA
Sunday, October 23, 2011 from 9 – 4 is the Wings, Wheels and Rotors Expo (Joint Forces Training Base).A great mix of civilian and military helicopters and aircraft, plus a custom car show featuring classics, muscle cars and more than 300 varieties plus a vendor fair with more than 100 exhibitors selling food and car or aircraft related items. This family event also has games, a kid’s corner and live entertainment.
LA PALMA
Nothing to report
PLACENTIA
Saturday, October 15, 2011 is the annual The Heritage Festival and Parade (Tri-City Park, 2301 N. Kraemer Blvd.). Since 1965, this celebration of the city's heritage includes a parade and fair booths. The festivities begin with the Chamber of Commerce pancake breakfast at 6:30 a.m. followed by the parade and band review at 9:30 a.m. The festival begins at 10:00 a.m. and will feature many exciting activities for the entire family including the annual car show, a crafts fair, food booths, kid’s games and more. For more information you can call (714) 524-8535.
STANTON
Nothing to report
WESTMINSTER
Coming up soon is the annual Simon Kidgits Club Spooktacular Halloween! The Simon Kidgits Club invites all of you little ghouls and goblins to come have a spooktacular good time and enjoy loads of frightfully fun Halloween themed activities and treats! Wear your cool costume and enjoy a safe place to haunt this Halloween. The event is located at the Westminster Mall. For more information you can call 714-898-2558.
YORBA LINDA
Nothing to report
CENTRAL COUNTY
COSTA MESA
Tomorrow Saturday Sept. 24, 2011 will be the “Cruisin' for a Cure Car Show” located at the OC Fair & Expo Center. This event is the world's largest one day car show dedicated to helping find a cure for Prostate Cancer.
FOUNTAIN VALLEY
Nothing to report
HUNTINGTON BEACH
Sunday, September 25, 2011 is the 14th Annual Walk for the Animals! This 5K/2K walk is benefiting the Orange County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Event highlights include DISC DOGS in Southern California; Canine contests for movie star look a like contest and best stunt, a mini-agility course, dozens of sponsors and vendor booths, a silent auction and low cost AVID micro chipping. Well-mannered dogs, on short leashes, are welcomed to attend. Registration begins at 7:30 am and the walk starts at 9 am. The event is located at Huntington Beach Central Park East. For more information you can call (714) 374-7738.
IRVINE
Coming up Saturday, October 1, 2011 from 10am - 6pm is the annual Irvine Global Village Festival. Boasting artistic cultural performances on five stages, the Festival's live entertainment is a mosaic of music and dance representing more than 50 cultures from Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America. Immerse yourself in cultural displays, world religion and demonstrations, indulge in international cuisine, explore the world marketplace and keep the little ones in motion with hands-on art projects, games and activities in a giant, interactive Kids Village. Festival admission and parking are free. For more information you can call 949-724-6606.
LOS ALAMITOS
Sunday, October 23, 2011 from 9-4 is the Wings, Wheels and Rotors Expo! This event is a great mix of civilian and military helicopters and aircraft, plus a custom car show featuring classics, muscle cars and more than 300 varieties plus a vendor fair with more than 100 exhibitors selling food and car or aircraft related items. This family event also has games, a kid’s corner and live entertainment. The event is located on the Joint Forces Training Base.
CORONA DEL MAR
Coming up Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 11:00am is the Annual Sandcastle Contest! This event is hosted by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, thousands of sightseers will descend on "Big Corona Beach" to view amazing sand sculptures created by participants ranging from the novice to the expert.
Whether you're a participant or a spectator, it's a perfect way to spend the day with family and friends. For more information you can call 949-729-4400.
NEWPORT BEACH
Nothing to report
ORANGE
TODAY – Sunday September 25th is the annual St. Norbertfest (formerly Octoberfest) continues to grow and helps to build the parish, school, and the Orange community. There will be great food fun games such as Sumo Mania, bingo, raffles, exciting rides and awesome entertainment for everyone—it’s a perfect time for fellowship! The event is located at St. Norbert Catholic Church (300 E. Taft Avenue
Orange, CA 92865). For more information you can call (714) 637-4360.
SANTA ANA
Nothing to report
SEAL BEACH
Nothing to report
TUSTIN
Coming up September 30th, October 1st and 2nd 2011 is Tiller Days at Columbus Tustin Park. Tustin Tiller Days has been a regular event in Tustin since 1957. The event provides an opportunity for Tustin to celebrate Orange County's agricultural heritage. The event also features a Parade (on Saturday at 10 am), carnival, rides, food and entertainment. For more information you can call 714-573-3326.
VILLA PARK
Nothing to report
South County
ALISO VIEJO
Coming up October 1-2, 2011 is the annual A Harvest of Quilts held at SOKA University. The Flying Geese Quilters Guild presents their 2011 Quilt Show where over 300 traditional and non-traditional style quilts will be on display. It brings together the “best of the best” in quilt making, with aisles of displays, retail exhibits, live quilt auction, antique quilts display, and hours of hands-on workshops. The event is $8 and parking is FREE.
DANA POINT
Coming up October 15, 2011 is the annual Memory Walk at Doheny Beach. This Memory Walk is part of a national movement to help those battling Alzheimer's and related memory loss disorders. There are 2 or 4 mile walk options. The event is wheelchair and dog friendly. For more information you can call Andrea McDonald at 949.757.3708.
LADERA RANCH
Nothing to report
LAGUNA BEACH
Sunday, September 25, 2011 is the last day for the Pacific Marine Mammal Center Fundraiser. This event is a great organization that rescue, rehabilitate, and release sick and injured seals and sea lions. This event will include a elegant 'Dinner under the Stars' at the Aliso Creek Inn. For more information you can call 949-494-3050.
LAGUNA NIGUEL
Tomorrow, September 24th, come enjoy the Walt Disney/Pixar film "Up". Seating is on a grassy hill. Bring a blanket or low chair to sit on. No pets, smoking or alcohol allowed in the event. There will be snacks, hot chocolate and ice cream available for purchase from Screamin Ice Cream. The movie will begin at dusk, approximately 7:30pm.
LAKE FOREST
Nothing to report
MISSION VIEJO
Coming up next month, Saturday October 1, 2011 from 10am-5pm is the Mission Viejo Readers' Festival. This event includes a full day of authors, adult and children entertainment, vendors & food. Featured authors will be speaking, taking questions and signing books.
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA
Nothing to report
SAN CLEMENTE
The annual Sea Fest will be held Sunday October, 9. This event is sponsored by the San Clemente Chamber and features a Chowder Cook-off, an Arts & Craft Show, Business Expo, entertainment and an array of fresh seafood, served seaside on the beach in the historic San Clemente Pier area. There will be a free shuttle parking is available at the San Clemente High School. For more information you can call 949-492-1131.
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Tomorrow the 24th of September is the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center Annual BBQ and Country Faire! This event is a traditional family barbecue in a casual setting featuring live country western entertainment, activities for children, live and silent auctions and riding demonstrations throughout the evening. Country western wear is encouraged! All proceeds benefit the programs of the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center dedicated to improving the lives of persons with disabilities through horsemanship. For more information you can call 949-240-8441.
*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, September 22, 2011
Caruso's Soft Side....
I came across this story the other day while surfing the web. I found it very touching and I thought it was something everyone should read. Unfortunately the author is unknown but I feel it has a great message that everyone can take something from.
When I got home that night as my wife served dinner, I held her hand and said, I've got something to tell you. She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes.
Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking. I want a divorce. I raised the topic calmly.
She didn't seem to be annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, why?
I avoided her question. This made her angry. She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, you are not a man! That night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer; she had lost my heart to Jane. I didn't love her anymore. I just pitied her!
With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company.
She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. The woman who had spent ten years of her life with me had become a stranger. I felt sorry for her wasted time, resources and energy but I could not take back what I had said for I loved Jane so dearly. Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release. The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer now.
The next day, I came back home very late and found her writing something at the table. I didn't have supper but went straight to sleep and fell asleep very fast because I was tired after an eventful day with Jane.
When I woke up, she was still there at the table writing. I just did not care so I turned over and was asleep again.
In the morning she presented her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but needed a month's notice before the divorce. She requested that in that one month we both struggle to live as normal a life as possible. Her reasons were simple: our son had his exams in a month's time and she didn't want to disrupt him with our broken marriage.
This was agreeable to me. But she had something more, she asked me to recall how I had carried her into out bridal room on our wedding day.
She requested that every day for the month's duration I carry her out of our bedroom to the front door ever morning. I thought she was going crazy. Just to make our last days together bearable I accepted her odd request.
I told Jane about my wife's divorce conditions. . She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd. No matter what tricks she applies, she has to face the divorce, she said scornfully.
My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed. So when I carried her out on the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, daddy is holding mommy in his arms. His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly; don't tell our son about the divorce. I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside the door. She went to wait for the bus to work. I drove alone to the office.
On the second day, both of us acted much more easily. She leaned on my chest. I could smell the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I hadn't looked at this woman carefully for a long time. I realized she was not young any more. There were fine wrinkles on her face, her hair was graying! Our marriage had taken its toll on her. For a minute I wondered what I had done to her.
On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I felt a sense of intimacy returning. This was the woman who had given ten years of her life to me.
On the fifth and sixth day, I realized that our sense of intimacy was growing again. I didn't tell Jane about this. It became easier to carry her as the month slipped by. Perhaps the everyday workout made me stronger.
She was choosing what to wear one morning. She tried on quite a few dresses but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, all my dresses have grown bigger. I suddenly realized that she had grown so thin, that was the reason why I could carry her more easily.
Suddenly it hit me... she had buried so much pain and bitterness in her heart. Subconsciously I reached out and touched her head.
Our son came in at the moment and said, Dad, it's time to carry mom out. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had become an essential part of his life. My wife gestured to our son to come closer and hugged him tightly. I turned my face away because I was afraid I might change my mind at this last minute. I then held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held her body tightly; it was just like our wedding day.
But her much lighter weight made me sad. On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. I held her tightly and said, I hadn't noticed that our life lacked intimacy.
I drove to office.... jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my mind...I walked upstairs. Jane opened the door and I said to her, Sorry, Jane, I do not want the divorce anymore.
She looked at me, astonished, and then touched my forehead. Do you have a fever? She said. I moved her hand off my head. Sorry, Jane, I said, I won't divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of our lives, not because we didn't love each other anymore. Now I realize that since I carried her into my home on our wedding day I am supposed to hold her until death do us apart.
Jane seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door and burst into tears. I walked downstairs and drove away.
At the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet of flowers for my wife. The salesgirl asked me what to write on the card. I smiled and wrote, I'll carry you out every morning until death do us apart.
That evening I arrived home, flowers in my hands, a smile on my face, I run up stairs, only to find my wife in the bed - dead.
My wife had been fighting CANCER for months and I was so busy with Jane to even notice. She knew that she would die soon and she wanted to save me from the whatever negative reaction from our son, in case we push through with the divorce.-- At least, in the eyes of our son--- I'm a loving husband....
The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves. So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy. Do have a real happy marriage!
Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.
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
When I got home that night as my wife served dinner, I held her hand and said, I've got something to tell you. She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes.
Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking. I want a divorce. I raised the topic calmly.
She didn't seem to be annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, why?
I avoided her question. This made her angry. She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, you are not a man! That night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer; she had lost my heart to Jane. I didn't love her anymore. I just pitied her!
With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company.
She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. The woman who had spent ten years of her life with me had become a stranger. I felt sorry for her wasted time, resources and energy but I could not take back what I had said for I loved Jane so dearly. Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release. The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer now.
The next day, I came back home very late and found her writing something at the table. I didn't have supper but went straight to sleep and fell asleep very fast because I was tired after an eventful day with Jane.
When I woke up, she was still there at the table writing. I just did not care so I turned over and was asleep again.
In the morning she presented her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but needed a month's notice before the divorce. She requested that in that one month we both struggle to live as normal a life as possible. Her reasons were simple: our son had his exams in a month's time and she didn't want to disrupt him with our broken marriage.
This was agreeable to me. But she had something more, she asked me to recall how I had carried her into out bridal room on our wedding day.
She requested that every day for the month's duration I carry her out of our bedroom to the front door ever morning. I thought she was going crazy. Just to make our last days together bearable I accepted her odd request.
I told Jane about my wife's divorce conditions. . She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd. No matter what tricks she applies, she has to face the divorce, she said scornfully.
My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed. So when I carried her out on the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, daddy is holding mommy in his arms. His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly; don't tell our son about the divorce. I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside the door. She went to wait for the bus to work. I drove alone to the office.
On the second day, both of us acted much more easily. She leaned on my chest. I could smell the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I hadn't looked at this woman carefully for a long time. I realized she was not young any more. There were fine wrinkles on her face, her hair was graying! Our marriage had taken its toll on her. For a minute I wondered what I had done to her.
On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I felt a sense of intimacy returning. This was the woman who had given ten years of her life to me.
On the fifth and sixth day, I realized that our sense of intimacy was growing again. I didn't tell Jane about this. It became easier to carry her as the month slipped by. Perhaps the everyday workout made me stronger.
She was choosing what to wear one morning. She tried on quite a few dresses but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, all my dresses have grown bigger. I suddenly realized that she had grown so thin, that was the reason why I could carry her more easily.
Suddenly it hit me... she had buried so much pain and bitterness in her heart. Subconsciously I reached out and touched her head.
Our son came in at the moment and said, Dad, it's time to carry mom out. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had become an essential part of his life. My wife gestured to our son to come closer and hugged him tightly. I turned my face away because I was afraid I might change my mind at this last minute. I then held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held her body tightly; it was just like our wedding day.
But her much lighter weight made me sad. On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. I held her tightly and said, I hadn't noticed that our life lacked intimacy.
I drove to office.... jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my mind...I walked upstairs. Jane opened the door and I said to her, Sorry, Jane, I do not want the divorce anymore.
She looked at me, astonished, and then touched my forehead. Do you have a fever? She said. I moved her hand off my head. Sorry, Jane, I said, I won't divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of our lives, not because we didn't love each other anymore. Now I realize that since I carried her into my home on our wedding day I am supposed to hold her until death do us apart.
Jane seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door and burst into tears. I walked downstairs and drove away.
At the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet of flowers for my wife. The salesgirl asked me what to write on the card. I smiled and wrote, I'll carry you out every morning until death do us apart.
That evening I arrived home, flowers in my hands, a smile on my face, I run up stairs, only to find my wife in the bed - dead.
My wife had been fighting CANCER for months and I was so busy with Jane to even notice. She knew that she would die soon and she wanted to save me from the whatever negative reaction from our son, in case we push through with the divorce.-- At least, in the eyes of our son--- I'm a loving husband....
The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves. So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy. Do have a real happy marriage!
Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.
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, September 21, 2011
Caruso's End of the Summer Housing Market Update!
Since we have come to an end of the summer I thought I would provideyou with an end of the summer real estate sales and inventory report. Specifics include Orange County and a look at how we compare to the National trends.
August 2011 Real Estate search results are in and Orange County, CA was the #16 most searched market in the country during August 2011. This is based on data released recently by Realtor.com, which is the #1 homes for sale Real Estate search web site.
The median list prices for homes in Orange County, CA hit $449,000 in August 2011, a -6.44% decrease from one year ago this month, and -0.22% decrease from July 2011. The national median list price in August 2011 was $189,900, a 0.48% increase compared to August 2010. The median decrease is a result of more homes selling in the lower price bands.
The active “for sale” inventory of homes in Orange County, CA in August 2011 leveled out at 15,828, a -12.10% decrease compared to August 2010. The National inventory counts for August 2011 were 2,267,327, a -19.00% decrease as compared to a year ago.
The median age of inventory in Orange County, CA in August was 87 days, a 1.16% increase compared to July 2011. Nationally, the median age of inventory was 103 days, a 6.19% increase to July.
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
August 2011 Real Estate search results are in and Orange County, CA was the #16 most searched market in the country during August 2011. This is based on data released recently by Realtor.com, which is the #1 homes for sale Real Estate search web site.
The median list prices for homes in Orange County, CA hit $449,000 in August 2011, a -6.44% decrease from one year ago this month, and -0.22% decrease from July 2011. The national median list price in August 2011 was $189,900, a 0.48% increase compared to August 2010. The median decrease is a result of more homes selling in the lower price bands.
The active “for sale” inventory of homes in Orange County, CA in August 2011 leveled out at 15,828, a -12.10% decrease compared to August 2010. The National inventory counts for August 2011 were 2,267,327, a -19.00% decrease as compared to a year ago.
The median age of inventory in Orange County, CA in August was 87 days, a 1.16% increase compared to July 2011. Nationally, the median age of inventory was 103 days, a 6.19% increase to July.
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, September 20, 2011
Caruso's Useful Websites!
OutletBound.com – Shop & save at 275 outlet centers across the US. Get all the details on ever Outlet Center, Outlet Mall and Outlet Store in the US. Shop smart and save 25-75% everyday on brand name & designer goods. Search 275 outlet centers & 12,800 factory stores!
WhatShouldIReadNext.com – Enter a book you like and the site will analyze their database of real readers’ favorite books (more than 75,000 different titles so far & more than a million reader recommendations) to provide book recommendations & suggestions for what to read next. You can register for free on the results page and build your own favorites list.
VroomVroomVroom.com – Renting a car has never been so cheap or so easy! This car rental booking search engine combined every major US Car Rental Supplier into one simple search. They compare all car rental prices for you so you are guaranteed the cheapest price on the best vehicles.
RiskRoads.org – Find out if you live or work near a fatal accident hot spot. The California traffic safety map shows which roads and highways have the most traffic fatalities. Using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rickroads.org maps the concentration of fatal traffic accidents that occurs within 1,000 feet of one another.
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
WhatShouldIReadNext.com – Enter a book you like and the site will analyze their database of real readers’ favorite books (more than 75,000 different titles so far & more than a million reader recommendations) to provide book recommendations & suggestions for what to read next. You can register for free on the results page and build your own favorites list.
VroomVroomVroom.com – Renting a car has never been so cheap or so easy! This car rental booking search engine combined every major US Car Rental Supplier into one simple search. They compare all car rental prices for you so you are guaranteed the cheapest price on the best vehicles.
RiskRoads.org – Find out if you live or work near a fatal accident hot spot. The California traffic safety map shows which roads and highways have the most traffic fatalities. Using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rickroads.org maps the concentration of fatal traffic accidents that occurs within 1,000 feet of one another.
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, September 17, 2011
Did You Know with Caruso....
Did you know, the Chicago area now has the nation’s largest inventory of foreclosed homes, outpacing Miami, Los Angeles and Phoenix, according to a data compiled by RealtyTrac. Chicago had 118,776 homes owned by a bank or in the process of foreclosure in May. That compares with 86,745 in Los Angeles and 84,600 in New York City- the top three inventories in the nation. According to RealtyTrac, foreclosed properties are selling at a much slower pace in Chicago than most other metro areas. 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
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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