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Carlsbad, CA Real Estate News

By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad Flower Fields Up Close I attended a CRS Networking Event with 25 other Southern California Realtors this past Thursday for a couple of hours at the Carlsbad Flower Fields.  It was fun to see my CRS friends as well as to meet other agents I didn’t know. There was time to talk with each other before taking a tour. After the group photo we split up into small groups to leisurely walk through the gardens, and of course take lots of photos.  While I have often driven by the Flower Fields on Armada Drive on the hill above to the east which offers great panoramic views of the flowers and the ocean, I haven’t seen the flowers and the venue itself up close for years.   It was a sunny day with a cool ocean breeze, although the marine layer moved in before the event was over so it was pre...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Our Monarch Caterpillar Nursery The nursery is doing well and so are the 10 Monarch Caterpillars, doing what caterpillars do. The Monarch Butterfly visited our back patio several weeks ago and spent quite a bit of time landing on the milkweed plants repeatedly. We didn't see any eggs left behind but that may simply have been our vision as Monarch eggs are supposedly quite small. A couple weeks ago my wife saw a couple of very small caterpillars on one of the milkweed plants and now there are 10 (there were a couple others but they didn't make it for long). They have grown pretty substantially which we hope will help at least some of them survive and move into the next phase (chrysalis), and not become a tasty meal for one of the many birds in our yard. I suspect the mortality rate for c...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
2024 Carlsbad Village Street Faire is May 5 One of our more popular arts and craft fairs returns to Carlsbad Village on Sunday May 5, 2024. The Carlsbad Village Street Faire is reportedly the largest outdoor 1-day fair in the US, other than its counter-part, the Carlsbad Village Faire in November. This is the 50th year for this fair! The Carlsbad Village Street Faire takes place from 8 am until 5 pm, so there is ample time to enjoy over 900 vendors and shop all you want. The Carlsbad Village Faire takes place in the heart of the Village, along Grand Avenue from Carlsbad Boulevard to Jefferson. The Faire spills over onto side streets, too. (photo is from another art fair in the Village in the same area).  Given the number of vendor booths much of the public parking will not be available ...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Nothing to say here. Just enjoy the pics taken on an early morning stroll through the garden. Not a spider fan but...          
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad’s noteworthy TGIF Jazz in the Parks series is set to begin again. For many who live in Carlsbad, or in nearby towns, this jazz concerts series is a highlight of the summer – which, BTW the way, is this Friday, the 20th! Heading into the 23rd season, the highly popular event is another one of the top reasons to love living in Carlsbad and one of the many things to do (click Carlsbad Things to Do in my Tag Cloud for a full list). Here’s an opportunity to enjoy 10 successive Friday evenings of music in one of Carlsbad’s gorgeous public parks for FREE, lounging in chairs or on blankets, enjoying al fresco dinner and our fabulous summer weather. Jazz, of course, is a highlight, but you will also hear latin, blues, and more. Each year there are some favorite bands that return, as wel...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
This is one of those silly posts...talking about trees in Carlsbad, especially purple ones. But for a guy from New England, purple trees are a big deal. It was one of the things I noticed about the area 3 years ago. Of course the palm trees seem to be the ultimate tree symbol in Southern California, but they are around all year. The Jacarandas, however, emerge in full purple splendor in May or so and last for a couple of months, give or take. Like the tulip and dogwood trees back in Boston, in my mind they are a vivid reminder of spring even though they emerge a bit later than the flowering trees in New England. The color is considered blue, although they sure look purple to my eye. They are native to many parts of the world, including India and Brazil, and brought to Southern Californi...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
I finally had the opportunity to go to this terrific store yesterday. Tip Top Meats and European Deli has been around Carlsbad for years, ‘bout 25 I think. It gets written up all the time, and people I know who have been there rave. Well I now can see why. I’m not sure that there is any meat or poultry that isn’t in this store (like elk? How about ostrich? Squab?), plus a myriad of other delicacies – bottled, canned, frozen, and fresh. In addition to the fresh meats, poultry, sausages and deli delights, they have aisles of gourmet food items from around the world. Tip Top Meats also has a restaurant, including an outdoor dining area. The fare is somewhat what you would expect of this type of place, and the German influence is strong. I haven’t eaten there but friends exclaim over the me...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
This is a bit off the wall, but this is California, and me. And if you are not from here, or have never visited, a reality cruise on the freeway is a new adventure. Thinking about relocating here? Or just curious? Take a look at a short drive on local freeway. A Video-Cruise on the 5 Freeway in Carlsbad, California from Jeff Dowler on Vimeo. ************************ If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net. All content copyright © 2007 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
There's big news here in the Carlsbad real estate market. There's a lot for sale. You may not think that's big news, but it is, at least in the minds of many Carlsbad residents. Not a lot of property (but that's true too), but an actual lot. The lot is located at the corner of College Boulevard and El Camino Real a short distance north of PAlomar Airport Road in a residential area where there is also a fair amount of open space. The reason it is BIG NEWS is that the seller is Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart purchased this land in the last couple of years and has been attempting to ggain approval to build an "upscale" Wal-Mart store (their words, not mine). This has been an ugly battle, and, not surpsingly, was met with a huge protest on the part of Carlsbad residents. There is no other retail in thi...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Folks who are buying Carlsbad real estate, or anywhere for that matter, owe it to themselves to do a thorough investigation of the property they wish to buy. This is not new news, or shouldn’t be. Most REALTORS strongly encourage buyers to hire a home inspector to investigate the home they are trying to buy and part of the due diligence process. To not do so is foolhardy, in my opinion. We even have a disclosure here that advises buyers that to not conduct such an investigation is going against the recommendations of the agent. But sometimes folks don’t listen. With the market we are in, this becomes even more critical, given the number of short sales foreclosures, and bank-owned properties (REOs). Since these homes, and sometimes others, are sold AS IS, a prudent real estate buyer will...
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By Jeff Cole, Homes For Sale 360-316-1177
(Realogics Sotheby's International Realty)
Learn from the Best, looking for a licensed agent to join The Cole Group in the Forum Office located in Carlsbad. Contact Jeff at 760-525-7787
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad home buyers have a diversity of choices when searching for a new home, depending on their budget and the area they prefer to live in. There are many different Carlsbad neighborhoods and subdivisions, and each one has a different feel and appeal. Knowing which neighborhoods are likely to offer the homes that meet your requirements will save you time in your searching. For many, because of affordability, the choices are financially driven. And since there are lots of things to do in Carlsbad, some buyers prefer to live near these amenities and activities. Calavera Hills is a newer planned community in the northeast quadrant of Carlsbad, just a few miles west of Carlsbad Village and the beaches. Built in a fairly hilly area, many of the homes offer terrific views of the Carlsbad b...
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By Tj Stroben
(California Residential Consulting)
When planning your San Diego Staycation don't forget to include gas in your budget calculations. Currently, gas prices around SD range from $4.13 to $4.85.  As you travel around SD being a local tourist, you may be able to take advantage of a better petrol price that what is offered in your neighborhood! It doesn't make sense to go out of your way to drive to one of these stations just to save a few bucks, but by all means, if you are driving down from North County to Seaworld and be able to save $.72/gal less. Keep this site in mind when you are looking for the best gas prices in your area. BEST GAS PRICES IN SAN DIEGO
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By Tj Stroben
(California Residential Consulting)
Change can separate the big dogs from the little ones. The recent changes and updates to the San Diego Multiple Service (SDMLS) has made it abundantly clear –As the evolution of technological advances continues - the services of a tech savvy real estate agent becomes an investor’s greatest asset. According to Sandicor, the service provider for the SDMLS, this latest major system overhaul has been coupled with promises of increased sophistication and customization of services for local real estate service providers, while at the same time posing challenges as tech support continues to work out the bugs. This is where an agent from Escondido’s ERA Property Movers can be a real asset to the consumer. Agents at ERA have long been at the forefront of real estate technology. Branded Real Esta...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
I started a series recently on financial planning as it pertains to real estate purchases. We talked about financial planning in general, keeping in mind our overall financial goals as we consider our real estate purchase. My friend Paul Paroti, a financial planner, shared his wisdom with me regarding making these real estate purchase decisions with long term goals in mind. Next we discussed the issue of down payments and the financial considerations associated with making decisions about where the money is coming from, long term goals, tax implications and so on. As a financial planner, Paul again shared some thoughts on this important decision so buyers can give appropriate consideration to their down payments and where to obtain the cash. Putting a large chunk of money down may not a...
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By Mike and Dawn Lewis, The Lewis Team at Keller Williams in San Diego CA
(The Lewis Team at Keller Williams)
North County Coastal San Diego Foreclosures North County Coastal San Diego has foreclosures for sale in 2008 and in 2009 will also have many bank owned homes on the market. Bank owned properties or REO's in North County Coastal San Diego CA are filling the San Diego MLS with reduced priced homes. Home and condo buyers wanting to buy a home or condo in the North County Coastal San Diego area can take their pick. There are many North County Coastal San Diego homes and condos already foreclosed on by the bank or mortgage holder and many more foreclosures are on the way. We have helped many San Diego home buyers buy a foreclosure and most have saved thousands and even tens of thousands buying a foreclosed home or condo. Buying foreclosures in North County Coastal San Diego, California is re...
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By Mike and Dawn Lewis, The Lewis Team at Keller Williams in San Diego CA
(The Lewis Team at Keller Williams)
Carlsbad Foreclosures San Diego Carlsbad has foreclosures for sale in 2008 and in 2009 will also have many bank owned homes on the market. Bank owned properties or REO's in Carlsbad are filling the San Diego MLS with reduced priced homes. Home and condo buyers wanting to buy a home or condo in the Carlsbad area can take their pick. There are many Carlsbad homes and condos already foreclosed on by the bank or mortgage holder and many more foreclosures are on the way. We have helped many San Diego home buyers buy a foreclosure and most have saved thousands and even tens of thousands buying a foreclosed home or condo. Buying foreclosures in Carlsbad, San Diego California is real easy. You will need to have a knowledgeable real estate agent to show you where and what to look for and to help...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Commitment is not a four letter word. But judging from what you see on the part of some Carlsbad real estate agents, buyers and sellers, one would think commitment is the furthest thing from their minds…indeed, something to be shunned, and avoided at all costs. Commitment implies, well, a willingness to take a stand, and to follow through on what you say you are going to do It implies a loyalty to another individual, through thick or thin And fulfilling your obligations, whether self-imposed or not And commitment connotes a certain seriousness about whatever actions are taken, as opposed to a flighty, “I don’t care what happens” approach. So, commitment would seem to be pretty darn important in our real estate business, yet so many act as though commitment is to be avoided. Some Carlsba...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
This is intended to be somewhat humorous, as the following quotes will show. But the issue at the heart of this fun is not. Selling a home where there are pets is a challenge, as most agents will attest. It’s hard on the pet lovers, the pets, AND the buyers. Some pets are particularly difficult (I hate the snakes most). There are the issues of what to do with Fido (or multiple Fidos, especially the ones that bite) in the event of showings as well as the smells and sights that Fido creates (trying to skirt the doggie doo in an otherwise pristine backyard is NOT fun, and a major turn-off to many buyers, especially those who are NOT themselves pet lovers - I had one buyer tell me that if they got doo doo on their shoes they were taking it with them into the house!). I’m not leaving out the...
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By Tj Stroben
(California Residential Consulting)
Buying a home is a huge decision and commitment. Just as important as that decision is, the agent you chose to assist you may be just as important. Perhaps, even more critical. For example, a buyer's agent, or, a buyer's specialist, solely represents your interests. They negotiate for the best price and terms on your behalf. Remember, the listing agent, already has a fiduciary and legally binding relationship with the seller. In the best of circumstances, this may be a conflict of interest. A good buyer's agent: Will be your "connection" in the Real Estate business. Will preview properties for you, help you narrow your search, thus, eliminating 'no's" quicker - saving you precious time and energy. Will sometimes be privy to homes for sale that are not currently listed, and homes offered...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
I recently wrote about the importance of considering your overall financial status and goals when making a Carlsbad home purchase. It’s a big decision and there can be huge financial implications, both in the near term and down the road. Most buyers, unless they qualify for 100% financing or obtain gift money, will allocate a large chunk of cash to the down payment (up to 20% or more of the purchase price; with detached homes starting around $500K in Carlsbad we are talking $100,000!). And the decision of how large a down payment to make on your home purchase is not just about making a competitive offer, but may have huge implications on your big-picture financial situation. This decision requires a careful analysis and depends on your unique set of circumstances. So I got some informat...
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By Roberta Murphy, Carlsbad Real Estate and Homes
(San Diego Previews Real Estate)
Trash cans at La Costa Canyon High School in Carlsbad, CA are emptier now that students, faculty and staff are switching to reusable water bottles. And that is all because students with LCC's Social Justice Project came up with a plan that is succeeding beyond all expectations, according to students and Christopher Greenslate, the LCC Social Justice teacher who also teaches journalism and English at the school. Students sent out emails and made posters on recyclable paper to educate fellow students on the hazards of plastic water bottles, which are disposed of at the rate of 60 billion per year-and is the leading source of plastic pollution in the United States. They also sold recyclable bottles, which student and faculty quickly bought. When that supply sold out, reformed plastic bottl...
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By Tj Stroben
(California Residential Consulting)
According to a spokesperson for Mitt Romney, the former Presidential candidate is currently in escrow on a home in La Jolla. Romney, also the former Gov. of Massachusetts, has been looking for a property in San Diego County as he has family here, and because his wife spends time riding horses here. With term limits as they are, current Gov. Schwarzenegger will leave office in 2010....
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