Huntington Beach Real Estate - DeeDee Homes

Foreclosures In High Profile Communities Drive The Market

2009-10-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

Despite a downtrodden market, there are pockets of real estate throughout the United States that continue to perform well. Most of these pockets are made up of one and sometimes multiple upscale communities whose homes and neighborhoods offer residents an exceptional living experience. Additionally many of the homes in these areas are of unique and incomparable architecture. Moreover many of these homes vary greatly in price from modest to expensive.

Further adding to the allure of these small pockets of real estate are foreclosures. In fact many make the argument that bank owned homes are what drives these small markets forward and makes them so lucrative. The vast majority of foreclosed homes are offered to buyers at incredibly reduced price points which in turn provides both homebuyers and investors with the opportunity to purchase a home that might normally fall outside of budgetary boundaries. This means that once the market recovers both types of buyers will be sitting on a home that's going to increase in value exponentially.

One area that everyone has their eye on is Huntington Beach California real estate. The community of Huntington Beach has a lot to offer residents both for the single individual as well as those with families. Not only is the city surrounded by other major metropolitan areas but boasts a healthy tourist industry and is a major part of the Southern California economic hub known as Orange County. This means that those who buy homes in this community will likely have a short commute to work and that there are plenty of educational opportunities for both young children as well as adults. There are many things that make the city attractive to potential homebuyers but it is perhaps the fact that it's a coastal community that entices buyers more than anything else. Additionally homes in Huntington Beach range from the luxurious to modest and include a myriad of designs that are sure to appease even the finickiest homebuyer. Foreclosed homes in this community are usually the first properties to sell as Huntington Beach is a fantastic area to reside in.

Huntington Beach is but one example of an area that boasts a healthy real estate market though the other areas throughout the country do just as well for many of the same reasons. In this economy people are looking to for deals, and to get the best bang for their buck. Today's homebuyers follow that philosophy and generally look for the best deals out there in the best neighborhoods. This includes foreclosures since they typically carry very low price tags and the owning bank is usually prepared to be flexible with a home loan. If you're planning on purchasing a new home take a look at foreclosed properties in high profile neighborhoods first, you might just find a home that you both love and can afford.

4 Bedroom 3 Dedroom Huntington Beach Real Estate For Sale

2009-09-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a really special piece of Huntington Beach real estate then Deedee Sive has a great listing for you to consider. This condominium is two stories, has four bedrooms and three bathrooms making it a perfect home for people with a growing or already mid to large sized family. This condo also has a two car garage so the next owners of this home will not only have room for their vehicles but will have quite a bit of additional storage space as well. Families looking for an affordable piece of Hunting Beach real estate will find this condo to be an enticing deal as the asking price is currently $290,000 which is quite low for a condo of this size and one in the Maywood area. Interested parties should act quickly as this condo is not expected to remain on the market for very long.

Property Details:

Age: 2004
Price: $290,000
Area: Maywood, Bell
Beds: 4
Baths: 3.00
Property Subtype: Condominium
Sewer: In, Connected & Paid
Roof Description: Concrete Tile
Exterior Siding: Stucco
Water: District/Public
Heating: Forced Air
Flooring: Wall-To-Wall Carpet
Garage: 2
Lot Size: 2160
Property Type: Condo/Townhome
Stories: Two Levels
ZIP: 90255
Listing Office Phone: 800-986-4004

Should you find yourself interested in this listing you may contact Deedee anytime to schedule a showing or have any questions you may have answered. If you are house hunting in this area but this isn't the home for you, you may view a complete list of Deedee's listings by visiting her Huntington Beach real estate website.

Huntington Beach Real Estate: Foreclosures A Great Opportunity For Buyers

2009-08-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach real estate agent Deedee Sive wants to remind all those who might be looking for homes in Orange County that foreclosed homes still offer the best deals, especially for individuals and families looking for a great home at a price below it's true market value. We reported several months ago that foreclosures where the latest and fastest growing trend in real estate. This month Deedee is reminding everyone of these facts. In fact foreclosed Huntington Beach real estate is still the hottest trend amongst buyers and there's no end to it's growth in sight.

Deedee continues to showcase foreclosed listings on the homepage of her website so that those looking for that type of home will have little trouble, if any, of finding a home that fits their needs and budget. Foreclosed Huntington Beach real estate is a great place to start your home search if you're someone who's wanted to buy a home in the area but found that homes there where just slightly out of reach budget wise. Many upscale and spacious homes can still be found at prices that are well below what their true value is.

These market conditions won't last forever and once the market begins to recover you can expect the prices on all Huntington Beach real estate to skyrocket, even foreclosures. If you're looking for homes in the Huntington Beach area why not take a look first at foreclosed homes to see if one of those properties provides you with what you want and need in a home. Be sure to contact Deedee Sive with any questions you might have regarding foreclosed homes and visit her Huntington Beach real estate website for a list of all the homes available in her area.

Huntington Beach Real Estate FAQ's

2009-06-12T14:36:00.000-07:00

As a Huntington Beach real estate agent, Deedee Sive often finds herself answering a number of questions by both her clients and those who are considering purchasing a home. Topics range from the simple to the complex and are generally topics that only those who work within the Huntington Beach real estate field will have knowledge of.

Regardless of the questions asked, Deedee is always happy to answer the queries of those she works with and those who she might one day work with. "The more a prospective buyer or seller knows the better their home buying or selling experience will be" says the Huntington Beach real estate agent. Deedee further adds that asking questions of a real estate agent can also prepare the buyer/seller for the process and can keep expectations realistic.

Some of the most frequently asked questions of Deedee are:

Q. Why should I use an agent when looking for and purchasing Huntington Beach real estate?

A. Whether buying or selling a home in the Huntington Beach Real Estate market or in surrounding communities, a real estate agent brings wealth of knowledge to the entire process. An agent will help you prepare your property for sale as well as market your home so that it sells more quickly. If you are purchasing a home, a real estate agent can help you narrow your search area, point out questionable property features and ultimately negotiate a great deal on your behalf.

Q. As a buyer will I be required to pay a real estate agent to help me find a home in the Huntington Beach area?

A. Real estate agents are almost always paid by the seller of a property, not a buyer. Once a home closes, the Realtor will receive a commission from the sale. Someone interested in purchasing a home in the Huntington Beach real estate market or Costa Mesa Real Estate market should be wary of any agent that requires payment upfront.

Q. What tax benefits are there for Huntington Beach real estate owners?

A. Homeowners benefit from several generous tax advantages. The most important benefit is the mortgage interest deduction. People may deduct interest paid on mortgage loans totaling up to $1 million used to buy, build or improve a principal residence plus a second home. The IRS calls such loans acquisition debt.

Points paid by the buyer or seller on a new mortgage loan for the purchase or improvement of a principal residence are deductible for the year in which the home was purchased. Any points paid on a refinance mortgage, a loan to purchase a second home or a mortgage on income property must be spread over the life of the loan, according to Edith Lank and Miriam S. Geisman, authors of "Your Home as a Tax Shelter," Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993.

Note that when obtaining a new mortgage, the borrower usually is asked to pay interest from the closing date until the first of the next month. Check whether that charge is included in the year-end report.

Some moving expenses are deductible for people who changed jobs and relocated as a result. The IRS requires that the new employment be located at least 50 miles away, among other considerations, said Analisa Collins-Sears, a public affairs officer with the IRS' Bay Area office.

Resources: * "Tax Information for First-Time Homeowners," a free guide published by the Internal Revenue Service. Order by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM.

These Huntington Beach real estate questions are but a few of the most frequently asked questions. As many of her clients both old and new share many of the same questions, Deedee has created a Huntington Beach real estate FAQ page within her website so that these questions can be answered without having to contact anyone. Of course if after viewing this page you still have questions, or have questions that where not present on this page, you may contact Deedee for further assistance.

Bar Monitors Lawyer Loan Modification Advertising

2009-06-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

California State Bar Journal, May, 2009

By Diane Curtis
Staff Writer

With no sign of the foreclosure crisis abating, the State Bar last month began notifying lawyers that the chief trial counsel’s office wants to monitor their loan modification-related advertising.
Included in the scrutiny of violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct regarding false and misleading advertising, bar prosecutors will be looking at whether lawyers are guaranteeing success in securing loan modifications or are implying that they have expertise or a special license from the State Bar to work on foreclosure cases, said Chief Trial Counsel Scott Drexel.

“Consumers are under very difficult circumstances facing the prospect of very quickly losing their homes, so they’re desperate to do something, and it makes them more susceptible to fraud,” Drexel said. He said his office was making oversight of attorneys involved in loan modification a priority. “There is a need to act as quickly as possible because the consumers who go to these people are on the verge of losing important rights.”

Deputy Trial Counsel Victoria Molloy, who is sending and monitoring the letters, said consumers, especially in Southern California, are “bombarded” with loan modification ads on radio and TV. “You can watch TV for an hour and see five or six ads,” Molloy said.

“Given that, plus the increased volume of calls we’re getting to the 800 line — with people complaining about hiring loan modification companies and then not getting what they bargained for — we felt it was important to look at loan modification as more of a global issue than a case-by-case issue.”

According to Realty Trac, 13 of the 25 metropolitan areas nationwide with the most foreclosures are in California.

For several months, the bar has been receiving between 850 and 900 calls a month to its complaint hot line from consumers regarding foreclosures or loan modifications, although many calls have nothing to do with lawyer misbehavior. Attorneys, many of whom are being approached by loan consultants to work with them, also have been calling the ethics hotline about the foreclosure or loan modification business at the rate of 235 per month.

The letters sent out to lawyers who have advertised state that attorneys contacted are “requested to provide the State Bar with copies of all written or electronic communications, as defined in rule 1-400, made by or on behalf of you or your firm within the six months prior to the date of this letter concerning any and all loan modification services offered by you, your firm or any entities with whom you are associated.” Those not abiding by the Rules of Professional Conduct could be subject to bar prosecution and discipline. Molloy also noted that not submitting the information could be interpreted as failing to cooperate in a State Bar investigation and also could result in prosecution and discipline.

Letters regarding advertising initially were sent to 30 California attorneys whose print, Internet, radio or television ads were known to the bar. Of those, only one has been sent on to enforcement for investigation, said Molloy. However, there are more than 100 open investigations related to foreclosures in general.

A major concern of the bar, Molloy said, is if lawyers are “being used as straw men” by loan consultants who want to involve a lawyer in the process because lawyers, unlike loan consultants, may charge fees in advance of doing the work. “It’s not that lucrative for them unless there’s money upfront,” said Drexel.

Molloy said there is nothing inherently wrong with a lawyer working with a loan consultant. “It’s more of a question of how it plays out in practice. If an attorney is hired to assist in a loan modification, and they make good faith efforts, whether they’re successful or not, presumably they’ve earned their fees.” It’s when the consultants or lawyers try to skirt the rules that a problem occurs.

Drexel recommended that consumers use caution in hiring anyone and to beware when a loan modification ad ends with the declaration, “Licensed by the State Bar.”

“You have to ask yourself, ‘What is it they’re trying to convey?’ My own view — and whether we can convince a judge of that I don’t know — is that they’re at least implying that they are specially licensed to do this kind of loan modification work by the State Bar or they have some special expertise and have an endorsement by the State Bar.

“Particularly in this area where there is a great danger of consumers being taken advantage of, I think we have a heightened concern about the accuracy and fairness of any advertisement for those types of services. It’s a public protection measure.”

“It’s very interesting that the bar apparently thinks that this crisis is of significant magnitude to embark on a very aggressive and unprecedented step,” said David Cameron Carr, president of the Association of Discipline Defense Counsel. Drexel, noted, however, that the move is not unprecedented because the bar has taken preemptive steps in the past, such as when it alerted consumers to the actions of the Trevor Law Group before the bar filed charges. The Trevor group sued thousands of restaurant and auto repair shop owners, many of them minorities, for minor violations that were posted on the web sites of regulatory agencies.

Carr said it remains to be seen whether the bar’s current effort at monitoring advertising will be worth the labor involved in reading all the advertising material. “You might question whether this is the best use of resources,” he said. “The idea that people are going to be massively misled by lawyer advertising — I think that is probably not true.” He said many people hit by the mortgage crisis can be helped by lawyers.

The decision to seek advertising information related to foreclosures followed the February release of an ethics alert from the bar’s professional responsibility committee on the same subject. “There is evidence,” the alert said, “that foreclosure consultants may be attempting to avoid the statutory prohibition on collecting a fee before any services have been rendered by having a lawyer work with them in foreclosure consultations.”

That alert to attorneys mentioned areas ripe for abuse: referral or marketing fees; fee-splitting, unauthorized practice of law by a foreclosure consultant; in-person or telephone contacts to get clients; filing lawsuits without good cause; and failing to perform legal services competently.
The Department of Real Estate also issued alerts for consumers contending with the possibility of foreclosure.

© 2009 The State Bar of California

Huntington Beach Real Estate: Foreclosures

2009-05-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

Deedee Sive, Huntington Beach real estate agent, is proud to announce the addition of "Foreclosure Listings" to her website. Foreclosures present those looking for Huntington Beach real estate with an opportunity to purchase fantastic homes at fantastic prices. In an economy such as this, many house hunters are looking for good deals on great homes and through Deedee's Huntington Beach real estate website, those looking will have an chance to search for and view foreclosure homes in Huntington Beach right from the comfort of their own home.

Following the link provided in the logo above will allow you view all of the Huntington Beach real estate currently in foreclosure. Additionally this page allows users to search other areas in Southern California as well which makes this an all encompassing foreclosure search tool.

Huntington Beach real estate is some of the most sought after real estate in all of Southern California and remains popular with both families and investors because of it's upscale nature and coastal environments. Homes in foreclosure in this community will not remain on the market long as a result of the areas popularity and so it's wise to search foreclosed homes when you begin looking for a new home.

Deedee Sive has been helping people find the perfect piece of Huntington Beach real estate for many years and now she has begun working with foreclosures to better serve her clients. If you're interested in Huntington Beach foreclosures you may contact Deedee for more information on the subject. Alternatively you may also visit her Huntington Beach real estate website for details and to view a complete list of all the listings she currently has available.

Luxurious 2781 Square Foot Single Family Huntington Beach Real Estate For Sale

2009-04-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach real estate is often thought of as upscale and in some instances luxurious. The community has a wide variety homes available on both ends of the economic spectrum. This listing however falls into the luxurious home category, and Deedee couldn't be more proud to have such a listing available.

This home which is located in Newport Beach is very special. The design of this home has an old world or classic feel to it which really makes it stand out amongst neighboring homes. The unique design and location of his home present a fantastic opportunity to anyone who might be looking for a lavish home in a great and popular neighborhood.

Not only will this single family home work well for families but because it's built on 2781 square feet of land it is also perfect for casual and formal events as well as family gatherings. The lighting in this home accents both the interior and exterior of the home and creates the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. Additionally this home brings with it many of the amenities that people expect from a home so luxurious. Owners of this home will enjoy the following:

Guest/Maid's Quarters
Loft
Turnkey
French Doors
Ocean Side of Highway 1
Peek-A-Boo View
Gas Oven
Living/Dining Combo
Master Bedroom Balcony
Central Heat
Entrance - Living Room
Open Floor Plan
Garage - Rear Entry
Brick Patio
Main Floor Bedroom
Amenities, Other - Community Dock
Appliances - Self Cleaning Oven
Gas Starter Fireplace
Misc Interior - Beamed Ceiling(s)
Misc Interior - Recessed Lighting
Near Public Transit
Premium Lot
Utilities - Underground
Rooms - In-Law Apartment
Dishwasher
Composition/Shingle Roof
Laundry In Garage
Central Air
Patio
Master Suite
2nd Story Family Room

113 Jade Ave, Newport Beach

Listing Details

Price: $3,195,000
5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths
Detached Single Family Home.
2781 Sq. Ft. two story
2550 Sq. Ft. Lot
Built in 2003
Association Dues: 0
2 Car Garage.

Should you find yourself interested in this listing you may contact Deedee anytime to schedule a showing or have any questions you may have answered. If you are house hunting in this area but this isn't the home for you, you may view a complete list of Deedee's listings by visiting her Huntington Beach real estate website. You may also click on any of the images below for information related to Deedee's listings.

Santa Ana Real Estate: Cozy Fixer Condo With 2 Bedroom - 2 Bathroom For Sale

2009-03-11T14:24:00.000-07:00

This months second listing is a condominium. Condos have been a big part of Huntington Beach real estate as well as Santa Ana real estate for years. Singles or individual with just one or two children often find that condos fit their needs perfectly. Additionally condos offer a very "homey" feeling that you don't always get with a larger or full sized home. Quaint and intimate are words that people often use to describe condominiums so it's no wonder why they continue to be a big part of Huntington Beach real estate and in areas surrounding that community.

This listing come complete with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms making it idea for smaller families or for those who have yet to start a family. With 1500 square feet of living space the condo will provide its residents with plenty of living space and space for their belongings. Owners of this property will also enjoy an association spa and swimming pool that can be used anytime weather permits. This property also presents its next owners with an exciting opportunity. The house is listed as a fixer that needs only a small amount of patching and painting. This means the next owner(s) has a chance to make the home their own right from the start. This home is a real deal and will make whoever owns it very happy.

3720 S Bear St # E 102 Santa Ana

Listing Details:

Offered At: $158,900
2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
Attached Condo.
1284 Sq. Ft. one story
1500 Sq. Ft. Lot
Built in 1984
Association Dues: 426

If you have questions about this listing please contact Deedee Sive for answers to those questions. If you're looking for Huntington Beach real estate but are in need of something other than a condo you may visit Deedee's site for a complete list of all the homes for sale in the Huntington Beach area.

Affordable and Classic 3 Bedroom-2 Bathroom Costa Mesa Real Estate For Sale

2009-03-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach Real estate has always been and continues to be popular because of homes like this months first featured listing. This home is located in Costa Mesa and presents first time buyers and small families alike with a fantastic opportunity at a first home. The home is a detached single family home, has 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms and is reasonably priced for the area in which it's located. Additionally buyers will find that because the home was built in 1957 that is boasts a classic architecture that can't be found in more modern homes. The home is welcoming and will make any small family or even newly married couple very happy for years to come.

Those looking for additional property details will be happy to know that the home has laminate flooring, a concrete tile roof and comes complete with dishwasher making kitchen work much lighter. Furthermore the home as been remodeled making the home more durable while preserving it's classic look.

230 Virginia Pl Costa Mesa

Listing Details:

Offered At: $615,000
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
Detached Single Family Home.
1460 Sq. Ft. one story
6300 Sq. Ft. Lot
Built in 1957
Association Dues: 0
2 Car Garage.

If you'd like to see this listing please contact Deedee to set up a showing. If you're interested in Huntington Beach real estate but this listing does not suit you, you may also visit Deedee's website to view a complete list of all the Huntington Beach real estate current for sale.

Huntington Beach Real Estate: Beautiful 3 Bedrooms - 2 Bath For Sale

2009-01-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

Our next featured listing comes out of Tustin but is part of a long list of Huntington Beach real estate we currently have for sale. This home is a lovely mid sized home that would be best suited for families with 2 to 3 children. The home offers plenty of living space comes complete with a bonus room, living room fireplace, and a patio slider that leads to a bit of extra space which could easily be converted into a Den or personal work/study space. This home will surely sell quickly so those interested should act now!

14542 Emerywood Rd Tustin, Ca.

Listing Details:

Offered At: $399,900
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
Detached Single Family Home.
1575 Sq. Ft. one story
5350 Sq. Ft. Lot
Built in 1968
Association Dues: 217
2 Car Garage.

If you have any questions regarding this listing or are in need of additional information, please contact us so that we might help!

Huntington Beach Real Estate: 3 Bedroom-2 Baths

2009-01-08T11:12:00.000-08:00

People often wait until the new year before they make any big decisions. One of the biggest decisions and commitments an individual can make is the purchase of a new home. With the new year officially underway many people have already begun looking for a new home. Those who are interested in Huntington Beach real estate will continue to find this blog a valuable resource and portal for homes in that area. As we have done in months past we bring you one of our featured listings. The listing this month is a fantastic buy and will accommodate both a medium and large sized family.

770 Allegheny Ave, Costa Mesa

Listing Details:

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
Detached Single Family Home.
1699 Sq. Ft. one story
6000 Sq. Ft. Lot
Built in 1963
Association Dues: 0
2 Car Garage.

If you have any questions regarding this listing or are in need of additional information, please contact us so that we might help!

Huntington Beach Real Estate: December's Featured Listing

2008-12-23T21:22:00.001-08:00

We began showcasing selected listing in November of this year to give our readers a chance to see homes that we think might interest them without having to bounce around to multiple websites. We continue this trend here in December by showcasing a listing in Laguna Beach. Though Deedee's primary focus in Huntington Beach real estate she does service all of Orange County and has several listings throughout the county.

This months listing is an upscale home perfect for a large family and for those looking for ample living space. The following information relates directly to this listing.

Detached Single Family Home
637 Loretta Dr, Laguna Beach

Listing Details:

3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths
Detached Single Family Home.
2700 Sq. Ft. two story
6489 Sq. Ft. Lot
Built in 1972
Association Dues: 0
2 Car Garage.

If you have any questions regarding this listing or are in need of additional information, please contact us so that we might help!

Huntington Beach Real Estate: Property Taxes

2008-12-09T18:24:00.001-08:00

Lately we've used this blog to provide our readers with information about Huntington Beach real estate and surrounding community information. This month we'd like to switch gears a bit and take a more serious approach to our blog. We'd like to talk a bit about property taxes and provide some information that will help homeowners approach these taxes prepared and informed.

Homeowners especially those who've recently purchased a their first home would do well to know the due dates of the payments. Luckily the government is generous to allow homeowners to pay their property taxes in installments. Additionally there is a short grace period which can be used when needed without penalty. The following is a list of installment due dates which homeowners will want to keep handy:

December 10th, 2008
April 10th, 2009

Owners of Huntington Beach real estate can expect to pay between 1 and 2% of the purchase price of their home though typical rates for Orange County homeowners range from 1.1 to 1.3% . The rate will vary depending on neighborhood but neighborhoods with mello roos will typically carry a high tax rate.

If a homeowner believes their property taxes to be to high they can consult with a tax assessor and possibly lower their rate. Though there is no guarantee of a lower rate it may be worth speaking with someone if for no other reason than to ensure you're not paying more than you should.

Homeowners should make every effort to pay their property taxes on time. Those who pay late will incur late fees totaling hundreds of dollars. It's enough to pay taxes, take care to avoid late fees. The subject of property taxes can be a confusing one. Should you have any questions about them please contact us so that might assist you.

Selling Huntington Beach Real Estate

2008-11-30T19:04:00.000-08:00

For someone who is considering the sale of their Huntington Beach real estate there's a long list of things a homeowner will want to consider with regards to preparing the home for the market. Most homeowners remain in their homes for a long number of years and as expected people, foot traffic, and time will take its toll on even the best of homes. The natural wear and tear on a home if left unchecked can cause a dramatic price reduction on any home.

Beginning with the interior of the home, every homeowner should consider several things. The first and perhaps the most important being a new coat of paint. Years of occupation and living can make the paint on the inside of a home dull, listless, and even change colors giving the inside of a home a dirty or uncleanly appearance. When a prospective buyer enters the home and begins looking around walls and ceilings are almost always a primary focus. There's nothing like unkempt looking walls to convince a buyer that the home they're looking at isn't the home for them. A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a homes interior and impress buyers.

Flooring is another important aspect of the home that sellers often overlook. Whether it's carpet, linoleum, tile, or wood paneling floors take perhaps the worst beating of all with the passage of time. Spills, stains, foot traffic, dropped food, and pets all abuse flooring regardless of the type and as many of these things can be difficult to clean or remove it's sometimes best to have flooring redone or professionally cleaned at the very least. The things that wear flooring down can also create oders that might be offensive to buyers so a good cleaning or new floor altogether is never a bad idea!

Once sellers have the insides of their homes ready for presentation they should immediately turn attention to the outside of the home. Depending on where a person lives and how much care is given, a front yard may or may not be in need of some touch up's or repairs. Smart sellers will look at lawns, gardens, driveways and walkways. A gardener can help get a lawn and/or garden back into tip top shape and driveways and walkways stained with oils and dirt can be pressure washed or re-paved completely. A seller is only going to get one chance to make a first impression on a buyer and the outside of their home is going to serve as that impression.

If you are planning on selling or buying Huntington Beach real estate contact us with any questions you might have about your home or the home you're interested in!

November's Featured Listing

2008-11-22T14:14:00.000-08:00

Every so often we like to showcase one of our listings if for no other reason than to give you, our readers an idea of the different types of properties available through us. Though we are best known for being associated with Huntington Beach real estate we sell homes in other areas as well.

Today we are proud to feature the property at 35500 Tenaja Truck Trl in Lake Elsinore. This is a land listing consisting of 67.88 Acres which is perfect for horse stables, workshops, and even riding areas. Additionally the property contains large amounts of flat areas which are great for development of any type.

The following are images of this listing and are show just how spacious the property is. Perfect for development!

With such wide open and flat land the possibilities for development are near endless and are suitable for virtually any type of structure you might want to build. With an asking price of $2,950,000 this listing a real bargin for those looking for open land and those who need a place to construct.

Interested in this listing? Have questions about the land? Please contact us with your questions so that we might assist you further.

The Value of a Handyman

2008-11-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

Much like life in general things often and unexpectedly go wrong in a home. Perhaps its a leaky faucet or pipe, perhaps its a short somewhere in the wiring of a home. Though these many people view these types of problems as minor irritants, these irritants can quickly turn into major issues when that short is preventing you from lighting a room, or that leaky faucet is both running up the water bill and constantly dripping water. Maybe it's a garage door that has suddenly stopped working and is preventing you from putting your car in the garage. Whatever the problem may be many homeowners even those who own Huntington Beach real estate hire handymen to address all of the little problems so that they don't become big problems.

Many times homeowners prefer a handyman to a exclusive plumber or electrician because they are simply more affordable. More often than not, handymen are much more accessible and personable than those who specialize in just one trade or those who work for large repair companies. Most homeowners employ handymen because they know they're getting everything in one package which is to their advantage as it saves them the hassle of having to call different people for different household problems.

Even though owners of newly built homes usually feel fairly confident that their home won't be in need of any repair work for quite some time, it's always a good idea to have someone at the ready for those times when the unexpected and irritating occurs. Waiting until something actually happens to your home might put a homeowner in a position that dictates you go with the first available service which can lead to costly repairs and bad service. All homeowners would do well to have a trusted handyman waiting in the wings to fix the little things and to prevent them from becoming big things.

Should you have questions about handyman services in the Huntington Beach area please contact us!

Heating Your Huntington Beach Home

2008-10-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

With Summer well behind us and Winter rapidly approaching Huntington Beach real estate owners everywhere have turned off their air conditioners and have begun running their heaters. Though most days in the early part of Autumn fall into the cool to warm range, the nights during this time of year as well as the early morning hours carry a Winter like chill. Running a heater just before retiring for the evening and just after waking helps remove the biting chill that often permeates a home.

Much like air conditioners homeowners must perform regular maintenance on their heaters if they want them to keep them in working order and have them function at optimal levels. If a heater has not been turned on for several months and was used extensively the previous winter a homeowner will need to not only change the filter to ensure clean and optimal air flow, but must also run the heater for a short period of time prior to using it for extended periods of time in order to air the machine out. The smell a dormant heater produces when reactivated can be irritating and is considered a heinous oder by most people. Running the heater with a few windows open and leaving the house for just a few hours will allow your heater to take in and heat fresh air which in turn eliminates the foul oder produced by infrequently run heaters.

Huntington Beach residents who are in need of heating and air conditioning assistance can take advantage of several local businesses that specialize in heat and air conditioning.

Should you have questions about any of these services or owning a home in Huntington Beach contact us today!

Homes In Orange County

2008-09-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

Regardless of market trends and conditions, Orange County remains one of the hottest real estate locations in the country. As the economic headquarters of Southern California, Orange County remains attractive to house hunters because the area offers upscale homes amid economically booming cities. Both individuals as well as those with families seek housing in Orange County as the entire area offers both jobs and terrific schools to its residents.

Orange County has some of the most sought after homes not only because of their upscale nature but because each community in Southern Orange County is encompassed by another high profile and luxurious neighborhood. Additionally the area is rife with landmarks, beaches, and amusement parks, all of which add to the draw of owning a home in Southern California.

DeeDee Sive is a Realtor who specializes in finding people homes in Southern California. Are you looking for a new home in Orange County? If so Deedee can help you with the following:

Should you be in the process of looking for a home within any of these communities contact DeeDee today! With years of experience and knowledge of the area Deedee will help you find the perfect home.

Why Huntington Beach Real Estate?

2008-09-08T10:12:00.000-07:00

There are a number of reasons that both individuals and families desire to own a home in Huntington Beach. Huntington Beach is an area that is known for being a coastal community; however it is much more than simply a city on the beach. There are actually a large number of things that attract people to the Huntington Beach region, all of which have helped spur sales of homes in the conurbation.

Of course there are the obvious attractions that a coastal community offers both visitors and residents. Events such as major surf competitions, volleyball, paintballing and bmx riding contests are held at regular intervals throughout the year. Additionally residents and visitors alike take advantage of the many contributions the Huntington Beach Pier offers the community. Those looking for a relaxing night out often make their way to the famous Pier to take in the beautiful sights, sounds, and eateries associated with the Pacific Coast. Huntington Beach is also home to one of the most famous hamburger restaurants in Southern California. T.K. Hamburgers is a frequently visited restaurant that delights even the most fastidious of hamburger enthusiasts.

The attraction to Huntington Beach is not limited to its beach activities as Downtown Huntington Beach is home to a very popular art center as well as a vibrant shopping center. Those residing in Huntington Beach make this shopping center a regular destination as there is virtually nothing that can not be found in this center. The downtown area of Huntington Beach is also home to a large number of popular restaurants. These restaurants draw not only residents but visitors from surrounding cities as well who are looking for an exception meal.

Families interested in Huntington Beach real estate will be happy to learn that Huntington Beach is home to a very large state park. This park is filled with a variety of different wildlife and is a popular destination for families looking to spend time together outside of the home. Recreation aside, Huntington Beach is also home to several of the top schools in California. Parents who might be concerned with making sure their child receives only the best education can put those worries to rest and their children will receive a top notch education in Huntington Beach, at any level.

With its many public offerings and its many unique and spacious home designs, Huntington Beach is a fabulous place to live. Close in proximity to other high profile cities; Huntington Beach remains a popular place with visitors and residents alike. Should you be interested in Huntington Beach real estate please contact us so that might assist you further.

Free Huntington Beach Real Estate Reports

2008-08-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Even in today’s market where buyers have the upper hand, understanding all the ins and outs of buying Huntington Beach real estate can be tricky. While it’s true that home prices are at historical lows, an unsuspecting buyer can still make a bad deal if they aren’t careful. That’s why it’s so important that buyers find an experienced and trustworthy Huntington Beach realtor to work with before they begin the house hunting process.

Another great way to help protect yourself when you’re searching for a Huntington Beach home to buy, is to learn as much as possible about the current state of real estate. Many companies publish free reports that detail different aspects of the real estate game and often give you an inside perspective that you would otherwise not know about.

You can download a few of these free reports on my Huntington Beach real estate website to check out what the experts are saying about getting the best deal when it comes to buying a home in today’s market. Here’s a list of available reports below. If you have any questions, shoot me an email at info@deedeehomes.com.

10 Important Tips to Successful Huntington Beach Real Estate Investing
This report will help you better understand how and when to buy real estate for investment purposes. Even if you are planning on staying in your home for many years and are not in the market to “flip” houses, this report still offers great advice on buying a home that will also be a great investment.

5 Secrets to Buying the Best Huntington Beach home for Your Money
If you are like most buyers, you want to find a great home with plenty of extras – all at a price you can afford. This report can help you find just that by offering great tips of how to get everything you want, without having to break the bank.

A FEW POINTS ABOUT INTEREST RATES!!
Learn how interest rates affect your monthly mortgage payment. This report can help you better understand why interest rates are so important when buying a home and what you can do to get the best available rate before you enter escrow.

Finding the Best Huntington Beach Real Estate Professional
Buying a Huntington Beach home can be a stressful process, even if it’s not the first time you’ve been through it. Having a real estate professional on your side to help guide you through the process and assist you with making important decisions can truly help make the process easier and less stressful. Check out this report to find out how to select the right Huntington Beach realtor for you.

What the IndyMac Bank Collapse Means for Huntington Beach Real Estate

2008-07-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

We have all heard a lot about the downturn in the financial sector these days and with the collapse of IndyMac bank, my phone has been ringing off the hook with questions about whether buying real estate right now is the best thing to do. The answer is absolutely. Real Estate is a tangible investment and with prices the lowest they have been in years, now is a good time to put your money into the market.

If you learn anything from the collapse of IndyMac and the other banks that have been bailed out due to poor lending practices it is this: diversify your portfolio. That means that your money should NEVER be in one place or one bank. Each account you have is only FDIC insured up to $100,000. If you have more than $100,000 in the bank, use the rest to buy Huntington Beach real estate or open other accounts so that your money is safe.

I know in times like these it’s hard to know what your best move is going to be. But remember, the housing market will always ebb and flow and NOW is a buyers market. So if you want your money to be safe, really consider investing in Orange County real estate.

Happy 4th of July - Celebrate with a Huntington Beach home

2008-07-03T13:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Independence Day! July 4th is here and I hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday planned. If you’re like most people, you’ll probably be heading to the beach for the 4th of July holiday. Lucky you – the beaches are perfect this time of year and you’ll have a great time taking in all the sites.

If you are visiting the Huntington Beach area this weekend, be sure to check out the Huntington Beach real estate scene if you have a few minutes to spare. There are some great homes for sale in the area and since prices are at an all time low, you can get a great deal on an oceanfront property. Just think, if you invest in a Huntington Beach home this year, you can spend all next summer on the beach – not just the 4th.

If you want to check out the homes for sale in the Huntington Beach area, just shoot me email at info@deedeehomes.com. Or check out my Huntington Beach home search online to see what’s available today! Have a great 4th!!!

Finding Your Orange County Dream Home

2008-06-10T21:46:00.000-07:00

There are many big decisions that you will have to make in your life. One of which is finding a house to call home. Buying Huntington Beach Real Estate may seem daunting as you sift through all the on-line search engines. How will you know which is right for you? How can you minimize the search criteria to narrow your search?

Why not try out my FREE Dream Home Finder? With this great great search engine I can help you narrow your search by asking important and obvious questions like; How much do you want to spend, What size of home, and How many bed/bathrooms. But I also take into thought some additional questions that can help to make our search together more fruitful like:

*What age of a home are you looking for?
-While many individuals are looking for new construction, there are just as many that prefer the comforts and styling of an older model. There are pro's and con's to each. It seems that everyone has different reasons behind why they would like to live in the age of house that the choose. But there is So much to choose from out there, I will make it my personal goal to find exactly what YOU are looking for!

*What schools are nearby?
-If you have school age children, this is certainly a concern. The proximity of schools can definitely be a deciding factor when you start thinking about the ease of children walking to and from school. You will also want to know that you are sending your little ones to high educationally ranking schools. I can help you by giving you the location and the statistics of local Huntington Beach schools. If you don't have children then, this may still be an important question. If you are looking for a little peace and quiet, you may not particularly want to be living in close proximity to any schools where you will find children laughing and frolicking on their way to and from class.

*Do you have a need to sell your present home?
-Is this a condition in which your new home is pending on? If so are you working with a realtor already? How can I help you get your Orange County home ready to sell? I will get your property on the market and into the MLS for you so we can start getting some offers. Many times the purchase of a new house is dependant on the sale of your pre-existing one. So, this will be very important for me to get your house sold. The sooner it sells, the sooner we can get you into your dream home!

Finding a strong Huntington Beach realtor is another key to finding your Orange County dream home. I have access to the Huntington Beach MLS and can readily find for you hot Orange County properties. With over 10 years of experience, I bring to the table time-proven excellence in buying and selling your home. You are guaranteed honest guidance, open communication and my years of experience throughout the entire process.

Click HERE try out my Free Dream Home Finder and then contact DeeDee at (949)293-7876 so we can start getting you moved into your new home!

Your Country Hideaway, Minutes from Orange County

2008-05-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine driving up to this serene sight?? This could be you driving home!

Off the beautiful Ortega Highway sits this luxurious Orange County home, the perfect country hideaway. Highlighting the gourmet kitchen, fit for a chef, is state-of-the-art appliances including a 5 burner DCS cook top with a Viking flushvent, built-in wine refrigerator, travertine back splash, Brazilian walnut hardwood flooring, beautiful granite counter tops & breakfast bar. This country paradise wouldn't be complete without a REAL Fisher Wood Burning Stove in the Kitchen nook. The yard is made for southern California weather, equipped with a swimspa pool and a plumbed garden shed. CLICK HERE to see more information on this beautiful piece of Orange County Real Estate.

Not into this "country" style home? Maybe a something a little closer to the beach is more your type. Huntington Beach is a lovely community with only a short commute to Los Angeles that features beautiful scenery as well as interesting attractions. DeeDee can help you navigate the waters of buying a Huntington Beach home or buying a in Costa Mesa ome well. The important part of home buying is finding an expert realtor that will listen to all of your wishes and then seamlessly complete the purchase of your new home.

Contact DeeDee Sive at (949) 293-7876 or email info@DeeDeeHomes.com so she can start the search for your next Orange County dream home!

Huntington Beach Realtor Offers Pricing Strategies for Slow Market to Orange County Home Sellers

2008-04-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach, California – April 19, 2008 – Huntington Beach Realtor DeeDee Sive is taking on the sluggish Orange County real estate market in a whole new way. Determined to help sellers in today’s slow market better understand how to get offers on their properties, Sive has begun offering real-world pricing strategy advice to any and all Huntington Beach home sellers.

“This market is incredibly difficult for sellers,” says Sive, a member of the Professional Standards Committee and a licensed mediator for the Orange County Board of Realtors. “Homes are not selling quickly anymore and competitive pricing is the only way to really move a home in today’s market. Unfortunately many sellers don’t want to adjust their price for the current market. They want to ask the same price for their home as they would have two or three years ago, and that is just unrealistic.”

Sive says that sellers in the Orange County real estate market need to stop fixating on the past and look at the present in order to find the most realistic sales price for their home. Since home values in the area have dropped, Sive believes that many sellers who paid top dollar for their properties during the home boom a few years ago are simply unwilling to believe their home could possible be worth less today then they had hoped when they purchased their property.

“It’s important for sellers to understand that the value of their home is not a reflection of the price they paid or how much profit they hope to make,” says Sive. “Sellers have to price their home according to the actual sales prices for comparable homes in the area. No matter how much a buyer loves your home, in a market like this, there is little chance they will buy your property over one down the street that is listed for thousands less.”

Since property pricing can be tricky, Sive recommends that all sellers find an Orange County realtor who can honestly and accurately price property for sale based on comparables in the area. Sive also warns that while realtors do exist that are willing to list a home for whatever price a seller asks, it is often times a red flag that the realtor is not looking out for their best interest.

For more information on selling a home in the Orange County real estate market or pricing strategies for selling your Huntington Beach home quickly, visit DeeDee Sive online at http://www.deedeehomes.com/.