Roseville #90 on top CNN places to live and Rose Parade

Good times!

Roseville was named #90 on the top 100 cities places to live by CNN for 2008.
See it here: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2008/snapshots/PL0662938.html

And if you haven't heard or maybe have forgotten ...

Roseville, CA is actually in the Rose Parade tomorrow in honor of it's Centennial.
See the image of the float design for Roseville, CA in the Rose Parade tomorrow by clicking below.
http://www.roseville.ca.us/centennial/rose_parade/float_design_n_construction.asp

Way to go Roseville!

Oh and Steve wants to me to mention this too in light of mentioning the Rose Parade, we MUST mention the Rose BOWL ... Go Trojans. Yes he went to USC. If you would like to have Steve call you and sing the USC fight song song or perhaps our daughters that he has brain washed, let us know. I went to Chico, we only have drinking fight songs. Teasin. We are much more mellow and of course, since my freshman year in 1993-94, no football at Chico (sigh).

Fight on USC. I will give Steve this tiny bit. :-D

Oh and if you are feeling nostalgic and want to know MORE about the history of Roseville, nerd-on-up over here: http://www.roseville.ca.us/visit_roseville/history_of_roseville/pre_1850.asp and see why we have the Roseville being represented by a train. BUT if you live here you ALREADY know why ... unless you are one of those folks in the far points of the city (West or Northeast) that may not encounter the trains too often. Plus find out some of the folks behind the street names.

Take year and we wish you a healthy, prosperous and safe 2009!

Heather Ostrom
http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

The chaos and beauty of the new mall area!

So we ventured out today to the new mall (Galleria Mall) to the new stores and new food court area. The Fountains, ACROSS the street, already gets a huge thumbs up from our family. We love the grassy area for the kids to play and also the "fountain" area. It isn't just a catchy name folks where your water can be sprinkled with chlorinated water on a windy day driving down Roseville Pkwy. They have a beautiful fountain central to the shopping area that is synchronized to music in the evenings. Not sure about during the day time. A sure hit with the little ones and tired parents enjoying a bit of peace of spacing out watching water change colors to good music.

So back to the new addition (phase 1) at the Galleria ...

I felt weird snapping a shot with my new trusty iPhone (a moment of silence) inside the food court, but that BY far is the craziest improvement next to the more organic transition to the CrateandBarrel and also to the Sears. My mother and I don't agree, but I know darn right that C&B store is much smaller and not just more narrow. 2nd floor was so claustrophobic to me. Bummer.

The food court, has outdoor dining now and still has the feeling of the courtyard below of the previous design (minus the bumblebee zone for kiddies, which I am NOT happy about as I loved it) a few new additions, but much more classy and a different treatment to seating then before. Let's just say, don't go out there to the Food Court particularly unless you A. have a good tolerance for crowds and mass teenagers B. you have just done your meditation (or had a solid, good swig from your flask, I kid I kid). So we got our Panda Express and then we proceeded to eat on the balcony, but unfortunately we were terrorized by evil harsh sun. Holy moses it was WARM today. BUT it really did look beautiful at the food court. I sound ridiculous, but such an improvement. It is much more earthy tones with a modern flair. Not so circus and cheese that the Westfield malls can tend to be like ... I still despise their corner hub art piece at Galleria Blvd and Roseville Pkwy. uggh.

ONE good thing is that there is traffic control at ALL the stop signs. For how long. I have not the slightest clue. But it sure as heck felt like Christmas season already out there. Didn't feel like a down economy that is FO' SHO! Sure many are probably lookie-loos, but I saw a TON of people toting bags. And even a few canvas bags. Allllll-right!

SO take a looksie at the new stores, the new garage (it actually isn't too bad up close).

ALl the remodeling primarily dealt with the Crate and Barrel area and tied it into the alley way where the See's candies is ... (the last alley way NORTH before you reach Nordies/Nordstrom). The area where Restoration Hardware "was" has been pushed out further and the food court is on the 2nd floor still but jutted out (I amguessing) more towards the parking area between Ruth Chris' and Sears used to be. YOu know, where the one electrical car parking spot was (ehehhehe). I know I am a nerd.

I heard through the grapevine they were giving out mad, crazy gift certificates from American Express? Saaaay what? I will have to inquire from my secret source, aka mom more on that.

Bon chancé on shopping! Oh and sedate yourself to deal with the pre-Thanksgiving CHRISTMAS music. Talk about a need for a law. it IS NOT right!!! AFTER thanksgiving people. uggh.


To view all the stores in there for PHASE 1: Click here to visit the Galleria Mall website: http://westfield.com/galleriaatroseville/news/UnveilingPhaseOne.html

RosevilleAndRocklin.com

REO REO where art thou REO?

REO: Real-Estate Owned
Generally refers to a bank-owned property.

The REO / real estate world is evolving. More angry people, and MANY happy people. Let's not get on the angry bandwagon of bad listing reo agents so quickly. A stone could be cast in both directions. So many chefs in the kitchen with REOs that it is a team effort, where sometimes there are weakness in the armor, you hope to learn, resolve and grow stronger.

Life of the extreme emotions seems to be lurking everywhere among agents and their clients. Some people have two or three jobs. Writing emails to you at 10pm, 1am or 2am. So many great hard-working people keeping up their end. Then there are others that the lies are so transparent, you wonder how they sleep at night? Having you show their clients their houses to only have an offer come through right after the showing, or people making accusations without merit using language that you would be shocked to hear or read.

You have to do what you have to do. I keep on getting emails from agents submitting their offers to Steve with ... well you know MOST of the BIG REO agents don't even respond to our offers. Steve is small potatoes, so I cannot imagine how busy these people are on the upper end of 20+ listings in reos, but they usually have other agents helping out with two to three assistants. If I am looking through my emails, I always type, RECEIVED if I did indeed get it. Sometimes a flurry of emails comes through and if I don't respond RECEIVE you should probably call and follow up. And you should regardless or text. Email is not always a SURE thing. We don't have the 100 listings, but I have to say, there are some out there that are doing a fantastic job. Others, have their micromanaged system with go to section a or b to download the contract on their websites and qualify with x-loan officer which you may or may not ever get a hold of because they are overloaded most likely. No response on any level is FRUSTRATING. You take the time to write an offer, you want to know what's up. Especially if this is "the house."

BUT unfortunately technology with all it's perks and bells and whistles, sometimes not having that grasp of technology, really can be a crutch for some. Even myself at times. Multiple offers, 10 mb files, assembling and downsizing files to be sent. IT is time-consuming just on this one aspect.

Cheat sheet:

• Follow agent notes requests (save yourself some time and read)
  
• Pre-qual letter in hand ( a real one-and heck even that means nothing at times even with warnings and scrutinty - don't get me started )
  
• copy of deposit
• proof of funds on all-cash offers (recent)
  

AGENTS super secret (but not really) cliff notes for REO offers:

• Label your files with property name and buyer last name (8164PointLoma_Contract_BuyerName.pdf). DOn't know how to relabel from your company scanner? Usually you just have to click once on a PC and let it come up as a typeable field on the selected file. Where did you save that file from the scan folder, uh that's a whole 'nother issue. :-D
  
• Scans at 100-150dpi usually do fine to avoid the 15 mb files (300-600 dpi is really out of control on a 3+ page doc): what's a dpi?
• Grayscale or b/w whatever; please no RGB/CMYK color scans. They are HUGE files. Then one has to print, re-scan your file on multiple page documents. Resizing is easy for me on Photoshop for one-page documents and I have Adobe Acrobat Professional, but it can only do so much.
  
• Scan 11x14 (legal) contracts as separate files from letter sized (8.5x11) to avoid cut-offs (doing 8.5x11 first sometimes confuses some scanners to crop at that size). Multiple files are okay on one email. Labeling is a good thing and a good way of getting your file received and remembered. Unlabeled files are really frustrating when dealing in mass quantity. Yes I know I am a nerd, but it is a repeating issue and my husband is damn lucky for me to be one.
• Embrace your inner PDF. Need PDF software, if you are going to be working in this field, it may be a good investment for those late night or early morning files when you are not next to your office scanner in PDF. To rearrange pages and need just one quick scan at home. Click here. I use Adobe Professional Acrobat PDF maker. And I LOVE IT. But I also have it because I have a design bundle package with Adobe (CSII, Photoshop, InDesign, etc). Steve is slowly getting it for changing jpgs into pdfs and it is a powerful medium.
  
• Did you get all the initials and signatures even those sneaky ninja initials in the middle of section 6 (example only)? (heck it happens to everyone)
  
• Verify file sizes so it is not a bouncy-email ball. (you got a returned email; well if it is over 10 mbs, it may bounce).
  
• Call for follow-up on emails if no response to receipt was mentioned.
  
• Respond to agent emails or calls (heck even throw in a happy voice just to get a bit Ca-Razy); no email response, pick up the phone and dial the seven (or 10 digits).
  

It is unbelievable to me how many people don't return calls or emails while in escrow. This goes for everyone (buyers, loan officers, other agent, etc). It is not the usual case, as it is usually great, but lately it has been an issue. If there are issues, be up front an honest so you can adhere to timelines stated in the contract or addendum that are binding to your deposit and agreement to purchase (or periods of inspections).

I have to say WE really have been so lucky to have so many great hard work, kick butt agents working with Steve on the other side of the transaction. That know what is up, are just as busy if not more, and still getterdun! So more calls from your girlfriends cell phone and making excuses that some how you get some emails and don't others, and didn't get that phone call from myself, our transaction coordinator and Steve, just getterdun or ask for help!

We have had more compliments from other agents and that is invigorating, but Steve has four active REOs right at the moment. It is a good time for learning. We ask many questions and are constantly learning more effective tools for time mgmt and contractors bringing properties up to market-ready.

People tired of looking, others want more to look at them. Steve has had success with REOs and FHA, but it is a LOT OF LOOKING. IT isn't for the faint of heart always. You can get downright cynical, but many people are swimming in the same waters. You will be beat out by all-cash offers, offers sometimes tens of thousands over asking price. People are in shock and disbelief, but at one point some people just want a house and are frankly, done looking. A full-price offer doesn't guarantee you anything. It is good to research your agent on the buyer side. Do they know how to get your offer accepted? Do they write like the bank wants to see it or give you suggestions on how to give you a "leg up" on bank consideration (i.e., days till close of escrow, fees broken down, clean offers, etc).

But MORE importantly are you TRULY qualified to buy a home? This has been a repeated frustrating point of issue with clients. One of our favorite clients just found out her letter meant nothing. Nice. Years wasted and a heart deeply hurt. BUT in light of all darkness, you must learn something to remain sanity. She know possesses the knowledge, that you do have to research and get a 2nd opinion before it is too late. My heart still hurts for her as it is so deceiving, to provide notes to the loan person of points of concern, to have them waived off as "not a big deal, nor an issue." It stings.

Get a 2nd opinion from an unrelated party that has nothing to gain and has a reputation for integrity. Friends are only good business if they are going to do their job correctly and effectively for you. Qualify their language with concrete referrals and/or quiz them on certain factors to deem them qualified to handle your transaction and execute required time lines.

OH and there are other houses out there. DOn't be afraid to expand your search to non-reo / non-bank owned homes. Sometimes it is a good thing to throw out an offer, you never know who might bite.

Thanks to all the amazing people still in escrow and have closed homes with Steve. Sometimes we aren't a good fit for some personality types, but most have been amazing and thank you for your continued work or communication with us. Your personal company was and is still enjoyed when you call or email. Your referrals are priceless and your positive words are invigorating. And even your thoughts of suggestions are healthy ways to improve our service. A different set of eyes and perspective only lends to our improved service for others down the road.

And to end on a positive note, we have met so many fantastic agents in the latter half of the year. I talk to them because of email and updates even though I am not an agent.

Nothing is more fantastic to non-reo properties then to see a letter for the buyer(s). I think it is amazing how hard some agents work their tails off and are marketing geniuses in even their presentation of their BUYERs (yes buyers) in even their offers. Great work. Sincerely. It is good to give KUDOs to each other when you see good hard work. This puzzle of a real estate world needs more like you!!! And a great attitude, honesty and good spirit makes a transaction so much smoother. It makes you a little more excited to pick up the phone or respond to an email. Sounds corny, but it is true. But I think that is for all aspects of life.

www.SacBankRepo.com (advertises bank-owned ONLY)
www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com (our primary website)

Gazooks it's FALL and we have a heck of a lot of candy left!

I love the leaves, well looking at them, but not raking them. Let's not get TOO crazy here. The girls love helping dad do that ... No comment on dad, but I know he has had some hard laughs with leaf cannonballs.

I love the weather and I love snuggling up in my blankets. Such a great time of year. Steve and I actually got married in late October and we scored the most beautiful day. Probably why I have a serious issue with the color orange and also I love RED with all the leaf colors. :-D Poor Steve no call in the matter. I know force him to market himself in that beautiful burnt orange. So convenient with it still being a color served in most clothing depts. Heck I even drive a virtual goldfish with my orange Saturn.

The one thing I cannot stand, do briefly depart from my sunshine-y world of dreamy fall thoughts, is the dog and rain. Man what a chore to clean up the constant muddy paws. Oh well it will have to be hold off till Spring. I need a Jetsons-like device for Lily to go through before re-entering our house. "Jrrr-orge: Astro's caaa-rean now! woof!"

Our Halloween was a blast, but semi-sad because of the rain. I love Halloween. The girls costumes were HILARIOUS. We sported the Fiona costume and her faux red hair. Little one revived an old black cat costume and was full of animated snarls and cat screams. Not sure they were really cat-like as they were more like lion-roars, but amusing nonetheless, if not just for us.

Steve braved the night with the girls and they came home with still full bags of candy. BUT we only got four or five small groups of trick-or-treaters. I guess my cool pumpkins and lights and music were just not enough to have people brave the on-and-off weather. But it really wasn't cold, still enough to deter even the most determined halloween go-ers. So alas we are stuck with a huge pile of candy. With slowly dwindling down to the disgusting leftovers that our household doesn't consider worthy.

Our schedule has been maintaining its course at ludicrous speed. We are doing well and we are doing our best to manage our schedule and calls. I am so grateful for Dana to help me out with paperwork so we can maintain our course on marketing, property marketing and attending to those in escrow and those seeking homes and those to be interviewing Steve for his services. I am not perfect always on follow up, but I do my best.

Steve is still working with bank-owned real estate (REO) properties: www.SacBankRepo.com

And he is getting a lot of looks at our non-REO properties: http://www.GreatGraniteBayHome.com , http://www.GreatHomeInRoseville.com and http://www.GreatHomeWithAcreage.com (which might be pending here soon!)

I am also trying to figure out how to make our website "blackberry" friendly. I was horrified to see what it looked like on one. I built our website, but I know my limitations. I am jones'ing for a few web classes. So back to the BlackBerry ... I almost passed out with the sadness that overcame me when viewing the mess of our website on my friend's crackberry ... I mean blackberry. It looks great on the iPhone, but there we can go in so many directions with my warped obsession with Apple. I just recently thought, hmmm I better check the BlackBerry. Agggh. It was horrible.

Of course my love and next thing in my life is the iPhone, but my apple brainwashing is not my fault, i was brainwashed as a wee-graphic designer child to love the Apple fruit. Love that accountability? Yeah I know it is annoying. I was tempted at such a young age to dream in Mac. I hallucinate and often dream of apple charming people from the PC side to allow all software to be compatible.

UNFORTUNATELY most real estate software is still wielding their blinders to us Apple folks and the hostile responses to my simple and polite inquiries are always greeted with a near growl. I want SNL (Saturday Night Live) to do a skit on angry pc users getting calls from Mac users requesting site access or usability. Heck I am really trying to be nice even though I have evil thoughts for websites that say, "sorry you need internet explorer 5.5 minimum." C'mon!!!

So how the heck I got from fall leaves to apple computers is beyond me. Life has many thoughts for me and I am so happy to have this weather.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Call Steve anytime.

We have a few closes this week with some amazing friends and clients of ours. We are so excited for you!!! Two FHA bank-owned buyer-side representation by Steve. IT CAN happen.

http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Happy Halloween Peeps!

Ughh .. peeps ... for some reason those Easter time snacks just popped in my head. Bleggh. And yes there ARE Halloween peeps. The ghost ones kind of crack me up.


Happy Halloween Folks ...

From Halloween

So we are having a lot of fun for this post ...
Okay I love Snopes.com go ahead and laugh. I actually haven't been surfing the net as much. I try to read a few real estate websites and read the news in the wee hours of the morning by myself. I do love reading Inman and occasionally Trulia ... But lately work has monopolized that time. BUT I did surf Snopes this morning and here are some fun reads in light of the fun Holiday. If you are not familiar with snopes, you should. Anytime you get a hooky email from a friend/or perimeter email buddy check this site to verify the yahoo-oriented email. It is fantastic, okay back to Halloween!

TOP COSTUMES & Halloween folklore: http://www.snopes.com/holidays/halloween/halloween.asp

Here are some pics of last year of our porch. Steve and I have been non-stop this past year and I am slacking a bit on our Halloween decor. It is going to be a last minute dash to the finish line. I didn't get to enjoy my artistic work as long this year. Kind of a bummer, but c'est la vie. The girls and I carved our pumpkins up last night. Steve raced to the airport after a home inspection in Natomas (hoooRAY Ingar) to get my mom and her lovely guy Rob from the airport. Thanks Steve for doing that ...

Heck we even missed my FAVORITE event in Downtown Roseville on Vernon on Tuesday. Which saddens me so. No funny shots this year. No chasing my two year old who waits like a ninja for me to not be paying any attention. "Hey mom look over there, [insert two year old draft of air and running]" hahahaha No shots of Steve going down the big blow up slide with both of the girls squealing. Sigh.

From Halloween

The Tuesday night show in Downtown Old Roseville is such a blast with stores giving out treats and a reptile show plus costuming judging.

From Halloween

Tonight visit the Callson Manor Haunted House at the Placer County Fairgrounds. I hear it is pretty good. There are some reviews on YELP too.

For Rocklin residents:
Trick-or-Treat Faire
Community Services & Facilities - Recreation
Location: Sunset Center Main Hall (2650 Sunset Blvd., Rocklin, CA)
Admission is FREE for elementary school-aged children and younger, accompanied by an adult.
Date: 10/31/2008
Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

So if you haven't gotten your outfit here is a quick reference for you to dart out to local stores. I heard last night was a MAD house at most stores. Click here for a quick google search.

So everyone be careful out there. I encourage for little ones with dark outfits to please be sporting a few glow-in-the-dark necklaces. Wal-Mart had the glow in the dark sticks for 88cents or around there. They are though every where. I really like the necklace type in lieu of the dangling stick. Keep those little ones illuminated. That way you can see them from near every angle. I like to even hit the girls wrists with a smaller version of the bracelet. I usually get my big pack of glow sticks from Wishing Well but they didn't do this year. I have some though left over from last year.

Reflective tape is great too!

Avoid the homes with no lights and avoid the foreclosure yards! And please parents and kids out there, please don't litter. With the rains here and coming, it goes into the drains or into a undeserved yard.

Be careful y'all and have a great halloween.

Steve and I will be working most of the day. We are still cranking away at work. Email is still the best way to reach ME, but Steve, I highly recommend you just pick up a phone: 916.308.2446 ...

Happy Halloween and please be safe!

Digital TV Conversion PSA

For all of you digital conversion procrastinators ... thank you Russ (Steve's dad) for sharing this hilarious video!



Get a coupon here and learn more in all sincerity: http://www.dtv.gov/

Goodbye my favorite new gadget ...

Insert pathetic sad music here ... yes I am dramatic. My husband is the cool hand. I am the artist and marketer. So hear/read my sad little story.

I have to now come to grips that my little flip camera is a goner. What's a flip, well go to the site and see my sad loss. HAHAAHA. I was filming at our newest listing on Union in Roseville and I think I set it down on a shelf of some sort outside and now it is gone. I went over with a fine tooth comb the entire area and it is unlike me to lose things like that so I am particularly upset. Although it is a "thing" and really not that expensive, but I loved that little camera. So many funny happy memories captured. I love gadgets, I always despised those clunky camcorders, and with this little video I have had more funny moments than can be verbalized/written.

I loved that little video camera not only for work, but for the quick videos of my children. I am sad of the funny video of my girls that is still on it with the images captured of little chalk drawings my eldest daughter did on it and me chastising my little one for dragging her feet across it. Which was actually quite hilarious.

[insert tearful music] So goodbye little FLIP camera, I sure hope you weren't stolen, but I enjoyed you tremendously while I had you. [SIGH] Oh and by the way, I love the FLIP Ultra if you are looking for a fun USB digital video camera. It takes a great, good-sized film with many optional features. I am looking at the site now, and MAaaaaybe this was SUPPOSED to happen ... sweet mercy I can design my own cover for my flip. Ei yi yi. Look out goldfish labeling. Steve just saw the new design and said, "WHAT IS THAT?" I may have earned the right for a new purchase.

See below what I created on theFLIP.com website. Sorry about the ads. The design cracks me up.

Flip Mino Camcorder with Personalized Design - Available only at www.theflip.com - $179.99

""

Check out this unique Flip Mino design on www.theflip.com. The Flip Mino camcorder combines remarkable video quality in a pocket-sized package. Now personalizable - create yours today. You've never had a camcorder that's this much fun.

View >>

When I forced to give up on my search and break down for a new one, I will repost with my first video on it's virgin tour! BUT I am sure hoping a gleaming light will beam down upon me and I will get that little video camera back.

This is why I miss my camera. This video cracks me up.

Maintaining a home if you have to be gone ...

Hmmm ... saw this video on CNN, not sure how I feel about it. Unless they don't mind showing a home easily and keep the home smelling and looking top-notch, it is hard to say if a renter would help, or rather "pluses" outweigh the "minuses." Each situation granted being unique. Besides keeping it clean and fresh (and a mowed lawn) is this really a good idea? ALTHOUGH the no rent is ENTICING! Is that enough incentive? If you are in sales and or particularly, someone from the arts, often the least appreciated are the items that come for free. Now I am not talking donation to charities, I am talking about people that can afford to dish and buy, but are looking for that deal, you give it to them and they don't value the product appopriately.

Seems like the likelihood of finding the perfect renter match is a possible one.Not everyone has the bankroll for a lawn service I suppose. Just a matter of finding all the right variables in place of someone that in lieu of rent, will mow the lawn, weed-wack and pull weeds. Keep the home clean and presented well, and willing to show the home (often after 530pm when people get off work). So if you can get that or close to, you are doing well I suppose.




There are some great renters out there, and I know many where those owners are darn lucky that they have such a great person(s) keeping the home. BUT, Oh the stories of renters and/or family members botching the house being shown to anyone. Such a hard scenario where you can often see both sides ... just a real bummer right now to be a renter where your home might be sold from underneath you or you can experience the foreclosure. It's tough sometimes especially if you are comfortable where you are and are blindsided by the experience. I remember being a renter and having our home go up for sale without us knowing and being in pajamas in my bed and having an agent walk in our house WITH clients and without as much of a phone call and I wanted to clobber him. "Oh I called ... you didn't get it." Uh huh buddy, sure there slim. My eyes were as big as saucers when I heard the deadbolt unclick. :-D So I can empathize in that respect. BUT we did always try to keep our home clean, neat, swept and tidy. I wasn't happy or ready to lose the home we were renting, but it wasn't my choice and sometimes you have to do the right thing, not the thing you want. The owner had always been good to us, but even he hadn't, sometimes doing the right thing is better than getting even. Without of course not compromising your rights as a tenant.

Best of luck to all of you trying it all and trying to do good! Our hearts are with you. Wanting to keep your neighborhood up is something we all want and need. Clean and kept areas attract others similar. A bad yard effects all.

It's Friday ...

So this Friday post: let's start with interesting, then environment, safety and Holiday!


Interesting:
A one in two million occurrence ... that will never experience a skinny dip in hot butter and no it isn't hanging out in the Red Lobster tank for all-you-can-eat night.




Environment:




I had no clue about wire hangers, minus the fact that I despise them. Heck you can get cheap wood hangers from IKEA! So anyhoo, I thought the story above was a good one and food for thought for those like us, that are frequently the dry cleaners. Maybe we could start treating them like "canvas bags" and bring in ones for your clothes. Not sure if that is a viable solution for quick turnaround and loss, but something to start with conceptually.


Safety:
Is it just me or are we seeing a re-surge in hand-held illegal cell phone use? I have been nearly mowed over by men and women a half dozen times this week on their cell phone. Ya got kids on the road, and incoming call comes in, PULL OVER people or don't answer. I know a lot of us don't like the earpiece, I agree I am not the biggest fan. So here is another alternative, which I can vouch, sounds great, the Blue Ant.

Steve has LOVED his blue ant in lieu of the sci-fi freaky ear piece. I know it is an accessory to some, but I tell you I do get freaked out still to this day of people looking like they are talking to themselves. I have answered people thinking they were talking to me, only to find out they were on the secret stealth ear piece blue tooth. "FOILED AGAIN, Arrgggh!" Only to be followed with a nasty eye roll or a condescending, "it's okay honey." Oh puh-lease.


Holiday:
Halloween is ON a Friday this year. WahOooO! I have a lot of making up to do with my kids and busting out some serious Halloween decorations with our busy schedules. And Wishing Well, I am NOT happy with you discontinuing my glow in the dark necklace packs! I loved giving kids the necklaces to make them seen and heard in the dark night.

So be careful out there folks and have a safe and happy weekend.

Oh and if you are a land lover this weekend and have the rock and roll lifestyle of sleeping by 930 ... if you have TiVo, Sarah Palin plans on Saturday Night Live this weekend. No word yet if Tina Fey will show.

Oh you didn't take HER off the REPLY all? Uh oh ...

Okay since I am swimming in real estate photo and website marketing mania, a post off-topic today ... and taking a walk on the funnier side of internet life.

So I was doing my usual work and early morning routine today when I was introduced to Google's new email "do-ya-really-wanna-send-that-email" protection/prevention software, "Goggles," like beer goggles. This cracked me up so much I had to share. I don't use Google's email system, but I do like all the gadgets and their thinking. I also am a frequent user of their IM with friends and clients.

The google email prevention software, from what I read, kicks in late at night and makes you complete basic questions of a math-related nature before it allows you to send that email. Insinuating and/or reminding, an email you should not probably be sending under conditions of perhaps an altered state of mind or say "emotional clouding?"

Heck sometimes I get an email late at night from a person involved with a real estate transaction that perhaps doesn't have the "sweetest" e-tone that this may be a good thing for some of us. And I want to sometimes retaliate with a "hey miss/mr. suzy/joe poopy pants!?! Can I help you in the sunshine category?" Not everyone is blessed with the gift of good e-tone and or perhaps e-manners we can all safely assess. What I do know is angry emails only further the hostile black snowball so I do myself to catch that anger and just say, "Bless their heart. They hit the oblivious tree and hit every branch on the way down." And I move on.

Okay that doesn't tag a chord? Sunshine and yellow happy faces only grace your days, well perhaps you have done the fateful "REPLY all" and said things you probably shouldn't have said late at night. Uh oh! I have some top notch friend stories involved here, but I digress ... AND Granted some people truly don't care who knows their thoughts, but if you do ... this could be the late night program to/for you. Heck maybe google should be called "goffee" in the morning? Early at work pre-coffee say? Or even better "groggles." Maybe instead of math in the morning it could be the cue for pre-sent emails could be, "Hey lugnut, did you know you are replying all and your boss is on here?"

So if you don't trust yourself to a late night email you will regret or MAYBE catch you not taking off that REPLY all too, give it a whirl. Or just read google's blog for a giggle. Click here.

And uh, if math is not your forté, well maybe this really won't work for you anyhow. DOH!

$275,000 260 Union, Roseville, CA 95678: GreatHomeInRoseville.com

Another new listing in Roseville! This home is squeaky clean and turn-key ready. Home is sparkling. Many updates, upgrades and touch-ups on this prime home.

Home has a whole house fan, dual pane windows, garage cabinetry, work bench, double master suites and much more! Hardwood floors in the Kitchen. You will love all the new faucets and also the upgraded light fixtures throughout parts of the home.

Take a look at the photos for yourself.

Property website with virtual tours (plus maps) at:
http://www.GreatHomeInRoseville.com



VA & FHA loans may take a second look at this home.

New REO listing in Sacramento

We have been nothing but pleased entering into a working relationship with our bank to assist in selling a portion of the bank-owned inventory, down-side has been more driving. But regardless and enlightening and rewarding experience.

Steve has new insight into working with multiple contractors and workpersons to get a REO up for proper condition to sell. These REOs are mandated to be painted and cleaned by the bank. So you are usually pleased when enter one of our listings and/or any of our peers who assist this bank also in selling of their bank-owned (REO, REPO) inventory.

These have been selling quite fast, so the minute we post them they usually go pending within four days or so. 

We have also been experiencing an influx of new business and listings plus future ones. Our Pleasant Grove property is SO beautiful and has acreage and storage for vehicles. If you don't know anything about Pleasant Grove it is our neighbor directly to the West of us here in Roseville.

So here is our newest REO listing in Sacramento: www.SacBankRepo.com/bridletrail ... a well-sized halfplex. Take a look at the website. More will be coming soon.

www.GreatGraniteBayHome.com

Our new listing is in Carolinda Ranch Estates in Granite Bay ...

6235 Reba Drive, Granite Bay, CA 95746

This property is amazing. www.GreatGraniteBayHome.com

So you have been watching the Carolinda Ranch Estates Area in Granite Bay waiting for that perfect home to show up on the market? Whether you are relocating to the area or you grew up locally, you know this is the place to be. You've been waiting and the home is finally here — almost three acres of secluded visual pleasure (2.8ac*). Oak trees form a picturesque canopy along this home's 300 ft* paved driveway. Lush green lawns and beautiful, mature landscaping provide a zen-like retreat for you to come home to ... A home that transitions seamlessly to its natural surroundings. Amazing visuals continue with fantastic views of Miner's Ravine Creek (approx. near the rear of the property).
The home rests high above this year-round stream.

Blending into this setting of oaks, granite outcroppings, and stream is an extensive and mature Japanese-styled landscape. It has been 20 years in the making and consists of over 50 different kinds of plants. Extensive use of patios, decks, and paved walkways let you take full advantage of the natural surroundings.

Pass it Along ...

Although the world of possible pending foreclosure may be a matter that hides within the walls of one's personal world ... if you know of someone that may be struggling to make their mortgage, share these links with them. Blame is getting thrown around, anger is swirling and growing, but honestly it will effect all of us inevitably and sometimes we need to roll up our sleeves and work as a community to work towards a road where accountability for one's actions becomes a part of everyone's vocabulary again.

Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)

http://www.hopenow.com/

It is sometimes hard to keep our chins up with all the darkness, but there is light and try your hardest to find resolution. Luck is not provided it is earned. Granted sometimes variables in life are near impossible to overcome, but I hope some can at least try to find a possible better resolution.

With that all being said, with speeding up work schedules and less time for family, we need to teach our children now what responsibility for one's actions means. So if we can help someone try to help themselves, then do so.

We cannot rely on other's always for truths or foretelling of the future of our financial world. We pay for advice and seek professional opinion, but common sense must be an active part of one's mind when making decisions involving one's financial future. Ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask too many questions. Don't let fear paralyze you but educate yourself when involving big decisions.

Sometimes you have to do what you have to do and that doesn't always involve good decision making at times. It isn't right, but hopefully we learn something and that is to think things through past short-term, take responsibility and learn that someone will suffer from poor decisions and life has away of making a 360 inevitably in some form.

With speeding up work schedules and less time for family, we need to teach our children now what responsibility for one's actions means. So if we can help someone try to help themselves, then do so. We cannot always agree on all matters, but what we can do is learn. Pass on to the next generation our knowledge and accountability for one's actions and to think things through before leaping. What's better is not always what's best. Live within one's means as you never know what the next door opened will behold. Don't let the "keeping with the Jones'" drive your life and don't let vanity and "wants" drive you to the brink of destruction.

Be well and live life happy!

Oh and to all the magnificent neighbors of the world taking care of these short sales and foreclosures by doing little things (in a good legal fashion of course)! You are fantastic and thank you. The best way to sell that foreclosure is to keep your home looking good. Cut your lawns and pick your trash. Please for the love of that's good, take down those unused, outdated "for sale" signs, put stuff away in your yard and pass those good behaviors on to your family and friends. That means you too tenants. You live there, clean up! Accountability and responsibility. You will have happy neighbors that may help you more quickly when you may need it most. Good actions have happy returns eventually. Take care of your community, little things do matter.

10-day sales event

Steve will be participating in the 10-day sales event for Coldwell Banker!

http://coldwellbanker.feedroom.com/?fr_story=0c160e3b6b0dbad202c9ef3247abca9b894a4e99&rf=sitemap

All homes listed on the CaMoves.com and participating in the 10-day sales event will be for sale at reduced prices during this period*. This real estate event is coming up soon (October 10th-19th).

A side, but related note, CaMoves.com got a facelift too: http://www.californiamoves.com/steve.ostrom

*discounted prices may vary and not all homes listed with Coldwell Banker are participating.

Hello I am alive and so is Steve ...

I have had many people ask, I haven't gotten a real estate postcard in awhile, are you guys surviving? Where is the Goldfish? And why is there another orange Saturn in Roseville? Okay those last parts aren't true, just wanted to write that ... AND besides, that orange saturn has an orange bumper and is sans the cool goldfish sticker. With these markings, has made me a better driver as I am so nervous to have someone say, "Hey woman you cut me off." ahh the stresses of easy recognition. But I am used it being near 6-ft tall. HA!

Okay enough tangent time ... life is GREAT. We have personally exceeded our personal goal for the year and we are pushing forward with excitement of what the rest of the year holds.

We are actually doing incredible, busy yes. We are working near every day of the week. We have been attempting to take time off here and there and enjoying growing up with our girls. I have been not doing every home sale posted by postcard as it was becoming somewhat silly at one point. My mind frame may evolve depending on the market, but I feel as though it lost it's impact with each sale card. I feel as though our personal meetings with friends and clients married up with our current internet presence as more impacting on our business than wasting more paper. I think for awhile I am going to do real estate listings only for printed postcards as I do still recognize their importance on a different level and not a sort of sole self-promotion.

On client-op pics upon closing: I haven't logged all the photo shoots with our clients that I need to ... but I am hoping to get most of them done with schedule permitting.
BUT I am super pleased with our new canvas bags. Don't forget you get entered in a drawing at Trader Joe's if you bring in your own bags and 5 cents off at most grocery stores (or maybe more) PER bag.

Above is one of our recent buyers and now good friends, the Zanzis. Dr. Zanzi is a dentist in Granite Bay. They found a beautiful two-story home in Roseville. Thank you sincerely Nader & Umi. This really is a beautiful home and functional! Your wait is finally over. :-D

And thank you to all of our recent closes! I know we are missing some much needed photos. Eek.

So we all know with the all that has transpired this week in the financial market and the revised bailout plan being passed, but what does it all mean, we have yet to truly see. With our current world, it is easy to look down instead of up. Push forward, this is the time to learn and grow with our constantly evolving world. I am trying to expand my knowledge with what we have ... there is business out there to be discovered and/or refined. Passion cannot be contained and positivity is contagious. Hard work and respect for your trade does resonate!

This week we will be having a beautiful new listing coming on in Granite Bay. A truly magnificent piece of property and beautiful home. The landscaping and natural terrain will amaze you and calm you. www.GreatGraniteBayHome.com (website under construction 10/6/08).

Communitweet

So I started to Twitter... What's a twitter? Is that a body spasm? And it not the phonetic sound spelling for Tweety Bird for "hit her."

Twitter is this e-like underworld I am just really becoming acquainted with, I have heard about it and signed up awhile ago, but did not become instantly engaged. It is a world forum of people posting their thoughts, opinions and links to interesting world facts or personal. I am sure you have heard more about it just with the political campaigns.

Now I have dipped my little toe in that Twitter water and I am not sure what I still think ...

But hey I am willing to give it a try and see what I learn and absorb from other real estate brains and graphic designers to give me perhaps a different perspective ... I am not sure how well I will be received as I am NOT a REALTOR and I am accepting of the fact I am a graphic designer that has been a part of Steve's field for many years now. I am here to advertise and promote well. Do what you are good at and do your best. I am good with people and also at packaging a product and I constantly strive for improvement.

RE: Twitter
I am not sure if I am doing it correctly, but I will occasionally update it through out the day to say where Steve is and what he is doing. I do protect my items posted for now as I experiment with it's use. I find it strange still to post publicly where and what I am doing nor do I find that safe. Although I am still discovering this little world as it fascinates me this mini-rant, bloglike world. You tap into an electronic pulse of random thoughts from all over and strong opinion. I am sure as time passes my thoughts on privacy may evolve with more protective safe public language. I won't be perfect at updates, as I like to have a life. But as I am with everything I go in spurts of availability (just like this blog). My creative brain goes in surges. Steve is steady as they go! Always happy and upbeat.

So if you haven't seen Twitter, it may not be your cup of tea ...

http://twitter.com/rosevillerockln
Twitter has a new face too (like Facebook) and you can do some fun new things thanks to some cool folks.

Other places you can find Steve:
Facebook: Steve_Ostrom

I am guessing the only reason people are trying to find me is for information and quick resource: so do whatever means you find most comfortable.

I am often times at my home office, but during the week it varies as I may be in Steve's office (Coldwell Banker office).

BUT for quick response, call or text Steve! 916-308-2446
But if he is with a client or in a meeting: there are many ways to reach me.

There hasn't been much as far as down time so we are with our family at times. You may hear the occasional girl squeal in the background thanks to some younger bodies in our home. That is life and we don't try to hide. Our life and business are a part of who we are and we hope that is a good fit for you too!

Chat with you soon and have a great weekend. LOVE this weather. WaHooO make the most of everyone.

Sincerely,
Heather O

Seeing Red, but it's Cool!

Cool stuff you already may know about it and a techy item to spice up your email signature:

RedBox baby ... movies when we can do it.

Have you tried out RedBox? It is great. What's a RedBox? It's a movie swapping, crazy, mania kiosik at your local shopping center (whether it's at BelAir or SaveMart or 7-eleven).

Find the movie you want at a kiosik, it is SUPER easy.

I am SURE you have consciously or subconsciously seen their logo while shopping as you daze and stare aimlessly while waiting for your groceries to be bagged. "Wait what swipe my card ... uh sorry. NO I have my canvas bags, no plastic. OooOOh RedBox."

We were doing the Blockbuster thing, but I think with our crazy schedule we are keeping with work, it doesn't make sense for it, nor NetFlix. RedBox is typically in your grocery store or small mini-marts and often near the coin-change kiosk.

Steve and I have enjoyed it thoroughly! Check it out. $1 to rent a movie and have it back by 9pm the following night. PERFECT! I guess you can even reserve a copy online. Return your REDBOX video anywhere.

I know many of you keep crazy schedules, so I thought you might enjoy this scoop if you don't already know about it already. I know my bay area lady friends have been using it for awhile.

Locations: http://www.redbox.com/Locations/KioskResults.aspx?zipcode=95678&radius=5&results=10&address=&city=&state=&vendor=

How it works: http://www.redbox.com/HowItWorks.aspx

Ready to make your e-signature a little more spicey?

See my same new email signature (e-sig):










How did I make it? Using WiseStamp (seen above-click name to start your own).

So far I love it. I can only use it right now in my Yahoo & GMail account (plus AOL), but hopefully they will add other applications sooner than later. You can add all of your networking places accessible for your friends and people you work with on a daily basis.''

----------

REAL ESTATE UPDATE: We have been slammed lately. Sorry for the lack o' posts. Steve is a high ranking man now on buyers in Roseville (wa-HooO) and in Coldwell Banker of this area in NorCal.

REOs are still the bulk of our sales. Steve is now a rep for a bank doing bank owned listings. It is going very well.

Ask your questions away as it has been a volatile week for many whether stock related or job.

Home inventory has been fluctuating, but short sales do seem to be the bulk of much of the inventory. Keep in CLOSE check with your loan officer on modifications to loan qualification. ALSO check if they (loan officer) have CHANGED mortgage houses. Also note different loans require different things to be repaired before close of escrow. Ask questions! Know TOO much about what you are doing is really the key to your protection and involvement. Talk to a trusted loan person or please give Ryan Nordby a call! He is really wonderful to speak with and bounce questions off of and also work in conjunction with for your loan. :-)

Give us a call or shoot us an email! 916-308-2446 Steve@SteveOstrom.com

Helpful Friday tip ...

Sometimes help is a call away ...

Seniors in Roseville on fixed or lower income or know someone that could benefit from some assistance (62 & older): http://www.roseville.ca.us/housing/handyperson_program.asp
see the list of services and what factors qualify.

For all of Placer County regarding Senior assistance programs:
http://www.seniorsfirst.org/

For Rocklin Senior fun:
http://www.rocklin.ca.us/government/service_n_facility/education_n_leisure/seniors/default.asp

For Roseville Senior fun:
http://www.roseville.ca.us/parks/seniors/senior_center.asp

Be good to thy neighbor and future ones too ...

Be good to thy neighbor and future ones too ...
Hello Heather Ostrom here.

I wake up today to reading all about all these suggested different websites as tools for real estate agents like Steve or other related fields. Most of them were phenomenal and I love great new ways of packaging real estate related information in a clear and concise way, but yet also relevant to Placer County and not just the Big Cities of the U.S.

So much information to absorb to make educated decisions in every facet of your life when buying your next home. "What are prices doing over the past two years? Who lives in this area? Where can I get the cheapest gas in this area or on my way to work? Is there shopping I need within five miles?" etc, etc. All valid reasons to base your home search on.

So THEN I get a place where you can vent about a BAD neighbor. Say WHAAaat? Sure this site has a place to mention good neighbors too. But is someone really going to google, "good neighbors?" Granted a "neighbor" less savory than others is perhaps not contributing to the community image, but is this the way to resolve it? I am all for venting, when not directly associated with an area.

I will not mention this "neighbor" marking / venting website, but it basically is a place to flog a neighbor or person at a particular location. And there are others like it. You can type a city or address and voila, if someone is or has vented for the positive or most likely negative, you will find it on this site. And there are many blog-like real estate places like this everywhere. And many have a respectful place and usefulness.

I am all for free speech, but this site was a lot for me to swallow. Maybe just me as it sickened me a little the power of marking a home as a negative or giving reason to others to raise their pitch forks and torches of others stumbling across this site.

BUT my question is who really gets punished here when marking bad neighbors? "Everyone" is my answer that lives in that vicinity of the "bad neighbor" in the eyes of a someone reviewing this site for a neighborhood. We aren't talking about a $10 meal, we are talking your investment or perhaps bringing in new, motivated people to improve your area with good ownership and unified beliefs in how to upkeep an area. That is my positive thinking, but I want someone living in my ears that is concerned with whether they live. We are in a new era of savvy buyers, where they have more information at their finger tips to evaluate neighborhoods and great weight comes from personal opinion.

So if you have fire in your soul and a two foot tall lawn irking you, before you go to the net (e-net that is ... we aren't in basketball season YET) and before you hit that "bad neighbor" tag, or go to any site to rant and name an area where a bad area to live is ... really weigh it's worth. It's permanent and hurtful not only to them but your new neighbors you just lost out on that saw your angry rant online. These are hard and frustrating times for many.

So I guess in support of free support, these sites exists, but I implore all people to make a neighborhood better, casting stones gets you nowhere.

And to leave on a good note, I must say I have some of the nicest neighbors. Some water and maintain other lawns that aren't even theirs because they are good kind hearted people and just want to help out. They see the value in neighborhoods and working as a team. The share with us and help others when they need it. Thank you.

Honey is sweet to share ... so keep the vinegar in a bottle unless you are making it for a tasty salad.

Doing things right ... Heeeeyyyyy!

Did Fonzerelli “heeeeey” or “aaaaaaay?”
Hmmm ....

The kids do come to our client's property closings occasionally and YES holding a juice box and doing a fonzerelli thumbs up is really quite difficult. “Caaannnnot hold juicey and keep thumbsssss up ... must maintain juice pressure to keep on drinking through straw ... loooosing pressure.”

You feel like you did things right or things were a success when you get invited to a BBQ or dinner after a home sale for a client or good friend. I know this may sound weird and could be construed in a numerous amount of ways, but my thoughts are purely innocent. It makes me so happy when someone keeps us in their lives after the sale. It is so strange to be so integrated in their lives and then to almost say goodbye once you hand over the keys and after I force them to take a picture with us. Rare is the occasion that the communication is again like a first date after the close of escrow. “Hey uh ... it’s Heather. You know Steve's wife. Wait you don't remember me? I am real tall ... No I don't have the wrong phone number. Oh you are painting? [ silence ] Okay I am going to hang up now.”

Other times it is like riding a bike and you pick up right where you dropped off. “You want all of us to come over for a BBQ? ALLLlllrighty then! It's on like Donkey Kong.”

I usually try to write quick e-notes, so not to be a weirdo but to keep contact. Thank you to all that have allowed us to be a part of the process and please keep in touch! :-) I love seeing pictures of progress or how you are making the home your own. Seeing your personal touches. It makes me so happy.



Life is busier than it ever has for us. We have enlisted the help of a wonderful lady, Dana Corin to assist with our transactions and I love her dearly. It has been a good move for Steve and I. With growth must come expansion.

With success and a filling schedule. We haven't had much as far as social lives. We think of you all and with school starting back up you know comes the growing pains of readjustment. Plus mix in some soccer and the need for down time with the kids it is a lot to juggle, but we make it work and laugh a lot. We love our little family and we love working with all of you.

Thank you!

First of all, thank you Margaret and family!
Great home and hopefully a great life for all ahead of you.
Thank you for working with us. Margaret found us on the internet!
Wahoo. All those hours make it all worth it. Google and Yahoo have been quite kind to us. Our pictures with the special people we have met are just fantastic. To have so many nice words posted and also this amazing collection of photos from some of the closings is just overwhelming. Sometimes schedules and settings don't allow for photos with ALL of our clients, but we still love them.

Okay stare at this picture ... I screwed up. I have some “photo bombers.” Initially our eldest daughter was and usually is insistent on being in our client “closing” picture. She even found an orange shirt at Target that she “had to have.” She says to me, “MOoooOOmmm I want RosevilleRocklin on my shirt.” I reply, “Hmmm Audrey let's look for a goldfish iron-on instead?” “Awwww Mommmmmm!” .... silence and deep thought .... “Alright .... Okaaaay.” C’mon girl the goldfish is cool. I feel there is no need to be making my daughter a walking billboard. There is plenty of time to advertise on her biceps after she is on the beach volleyball team circuit with the superimposed ads. JOKING! haha

But sincerely the girl loves being with us and helping Daddy. Well come photo time our girl got shy and that is more than fine with me. Yet both mini-O’s still found their way into the picture.

Best of luck Margaret and family in the new home. It was so wonderful to work with and get to know you. Thank you!!!

Hot Weather and Chili (wait what?)

So it wasn't AS hot today. I can tolerate this heat, minus that all goes "in theory" well with the kids. So Steve and I exercised a much needed day off today (still fielding calls and emails). We started the day checking out some sales at the mall and then we proceeded to the Chili Cook-off in Historic Roseville (that's where Main street dead ends).

There were great tastin’ chilis, but man they ran out WAY too early. Maybe the crowds were more than they could handle? I was really disappointed to not be able to vote because people ran out and they said it was not fair if not all participants had chili to offer.

Regardless a fun event, but there were a lot of frustrated and bummed people and it was only 1230pm. A 10am to 430pm event is what I was told. Hmmm ...

But the girls loved the pony rides. Such a nice family hosting the ponies and petting zoo (PonyUpFun.com out of Newcastle). We didn't venture into the petting zoo area with the ducks, potty bellied pig and rabbit, but the ponies were great. I kept on wondering why there were dads exclaiming out loud as their children rode the ponies, “Whaaaat? It was the horse?” Hmmm strange. When I say dad, I mean Steve. Perhaps genius placement for the pony ride at the exit and entry of the chili cook-off.

7504 Amherst, 95822

Newest REO / Bank Listing.

7504 Granville, Sacramento, CA 95822
To learn more about this property please visit: http://www.SacBankRepo.com/amherst

Granville is already pending (our other REO listing) and went extremely fast to pending.
If you have any questions what a REO / Bank-Owned property means and what it can/possibly entail, give Steve a call whether you are just curious or are actively looking.

These bank-owned properties have been a fantastic experience thus far and has kept us quite busy. Steve has been a buyer's agent on NUMEROUS reo homes, but now he is seeing from the other side of the table. A great learning experience. It is interesting to post a website only to have it go pending the next morning. Regardless it is best to take all measures for good exposure.

Just a thought ...

A big house also means a big house to clean. Just saying. Big isn't always better ... (have you seen Super size me lately? Teasin'). Heck my last post was about ice cream and cupcakes ... arggh.

So this is all coming from a person submerged in Steve's real estate world, but not an agent ... yet. Steve is a REALTOR with Coldwell Banker here in Roseville / Granite Bay office.

I just have some observations, because this is a full-time gig for both Steve and I helping people find the right real estate solution.

Dropping prices makes it enticing to find the biggest home on the block for those with stars in their eyes of all these big homes up for sale. Try to be the moderate in a great or good area if you have a firm budget you are playing by for this home purchase. BUT having said/wrote that, sometimes your first home is not going to be your “dream” home. Keep life in perspective, aim high of course, but try to live within your means and you will be much happier. You never know what the next day will bring.

It makes you wonder how this real estate world got here outside of the obvious (loans). There is no shame in perhaps actually buying WHAT you can comfortably afford. Believe in progress and your life will take you where you need to be if you plan the right path.

All situations are unique, get caught in numbers or sizes, but know there is a life to live in those numbers. Let functionality and reality sometimes have a role playing King/or as in our house ... Queen. HA ;-)

Be a proud homeowner, whether it is 900 or 2500 square feet. You are living the AMERICAN dream! Live for tomorrow, not just today.

Hot days, frozen nights ...

The return of 3-digit heat is really not cool, pun intended, nor was I hoping it ever would. I guess I was secretly hoping the cool weather would just morph into the beautiful October cool down. This heat stinks. So over the past six months plus, you probably have noticed various named yogurt shops popping up out at all corners of the area.

So "Yo-Gurt" I have what you need ... and it is the frozen yogurt craze of the area.

Man there are a lot of frozen yogurts in Roseville and Rocklin right now. Particularly in Roseville. Big Spoon, Yog-Yog and the historically, consistent and good “Honey Treat” in the Mervyn's parking lot, but I have to say our favorite is "Top it Off." I am not sure if it is just the product I like and how the toppings are dispensed (I don't like fingers grazing my toppings-even though there are SOME self scoop) or just the layout and freshness of the decor. Pretty simple as it is, I liked it the best.

Big Spoon is indeed pretty tasty too, but the lines, whether just freak timing on our part (which may very well be the case) have always ridiculously long! Kudos to them. I know of many people that like Yog-Yog. If only Jon-N-Bons (Chico) would open up down here ...

So if you are looking for some ways to cool off in a healthy or non-healthy route, we have more options than I ever thought possible in the area in the form of frozen yogurt. Seems like only a year or so ago we had near nothing around here. $1 scoop night on Tuesdays at 31 Flavors was about all that was to be had ...

For a more Rocklin-oriented shout out on the baked goods side of dessert: I also hear the cupcake place on Pacific street (just North east of Rocklin rd) is darn good too! Icing on the Cupcake. Cute packaging and a good fun way to brighten with a sugar smile (pretty cute packaging too). I haven't been there YET.

Movie on Up!

Friday Night (8/20): Roseville
From RCONA (Roseville Coalition of Neighborhood Associations)

Have you been to one of the inflatable movie nights at the Park? It is a good time and the kids particularly like the outing. Doesn't lend to sitting down as it is "much too exciting" to sit down, but a good time nonetheless.

Place: David Uribe Park, 3051 Empingham Way
The movie The Incredibles starts at sundown.

Rocklin:
I was going to post a Rocklin event, but the city website is down. I will update shortly.

New Listing: 6 Granville, Sacramento, CA 95838

Our newest listing, and a foreclosure located in Sacramento: see it here at www.SacBankRepo.com

6 Granville, Sacramento, CA 95838: Our first REO property.
Bank-owned=REO, REPO (if you haven't heard the term before)

A cute and moderately sized home, it is a four bedroom* with two full baths. Home is an open floor plan with a good sized corner lot. Home is situated in a court with quick access to I-80 (Great for Commuters!). Home has been recently cleaned, interior painted and floors cleaned.

Since this is a bank-owned listing, please see our website for seller paperwork and terms.
Any questions about bank-owned or any other listing, give Steve a call.
916-308-2446 and/or email us: Steve@SteveOstrom.com

Okay some new technological additions to the listing website ...

This is also one of my first opportunity to explore and actually implement google tours that I mentioned in a previous post. See how it came out here. I think it works pretty well. Granted tours will be out of date, but it gives the potential buyer a sense of the area and travel further than a normal virtual tour could take you.

Okay I know I am a semi-nerd, but with so much to learn and I love to learn with what little time I have ... As you can see above I am also using Picasa Photo Albums for our listings. AND I love it. It marries up so nicely with my google account, youtube and BLOGGER account. I used to use Flickr, but unfortunately I was blackballed because they found a logo in my pics (Flickr is a Yahoo photo service and I loved it, but no second chances even with a bunch of groveling emails). I didn't realize I couldn't have it in there. I begged to be a good girl, but no response from Yahoo. Oh well! I hope to implement Picasa photo albums as a staple on our listing websites. And of course, without any logos! eek. I have the ability to embed the Picasa slide shows almost anywhere it easily embeds into almost any site (including blogs-see above). Good for me and also great for the seller in maximizing exposure on a great format.

* Tax records state 3 bd with differing sq. footage. Recent appraisal disputes tax records and states four bedrooms with 1500+ sq feet. All interested parties must verify all information contained above and linked websites relating to this property.

"Best of" or did you get the "Best of" my gullible heart?

So Steve has been blessed to work with so many great clients over the years and many that he continues to work with finding that "right" home solution or investment property.

Clients have taken pics pictures with Steve and write fantastic notes and letters of endorsement, which mean the world to us. Heck we have even had a few submit HGTV videos with us! I will post that one soon. Thanks to you Morgan!

So what's that pic below? Hmmm. My instinct says hoax to the "moax"-est, but having your website in even "e-writing," does have it's power over your mind if it is directed at you and/or perhaps an audience that is interviewing REALTORs such as Steve.



Uh as much as I would love to say this is a real award, I just don't think so ... Of course who would not enjoy an award, but the email I received seemed odd as well as how difficult it seems to make contact with this USLBA.net group (US Local Business Association-and on their site it is "US" not "U.S."). So on this little plaque it says "US" and not "U.S." as in United States. Is this an accidental omission of proper punctuation or is it possibly a deliberate typo to make an association that would lend us to think it is a nationally affiliated group ... "Us Local Business types ... "

How was this "best of" arrived at is my question? Honestly I didn't want to write back to that email that sent me the original email.

I was left to googling and jumping on Yahoo!

So for a month or so now I have been doing very "light" research on the USLBA.net that sent us the award above, after Steve received an award for his being the best in Roseville for real estate agents. I don't have the drive nor desire to claim fraud or legit with the award we received. I have seen many new companies boasting this award, and I don't know anything past what I have found with googling.

I have seen this plaque around town (one at a great local restaurant). The owner claimed it was real and he said someone had to write in to get this award (I gathered a written endorsement). When I first this award come through my email, I thought, "this seems weird" but was still excited at the chance we had won an award for our website.

I KNOW it is a great honor to be voted and/or nominated for a best of category, but WHO voted? The power of print can have indeed lend to a powerful perception and add to the perceived worth of a group. I too got quickly blinded when I saw, "Best of Roseville: Real Estate Agents." Agents? But it is just Steve? I am only the marketing person. Hmmm and he is with Coldwell Banker. Granted a typo possibly.

My background is marketing (and graphic design) and I thought something seemed way too automated and it seemed odd to me that I wasn't told the price of the plaque unless I provided my information. Is there anything to that thought process, honestly I don't know. Just my instinct that it didn't feel right to request my information before letting me know the cost of the item that I was told we won.

So I googled this group and I have found great posts and also this great article about an investigation ...

See the article out of Louisville, Kentucky: click here.

Granted if you want to pay $80+ for a plaque, go for it, but I sense this might be a clever marketing scheme to give you a cheap, but nice "enough" plaque with what appeared to be a color, glossy print out (yes I have seen it with my own two eyes), but might be plastic covering. Buuuuuut .... I would be nervous to be providing my credit card to this group.

So if you have gotten one of these in the emails ... there has to be more people locally who have received this ... I wonder. I have found only one other local person claiming it, the other one I saw in a restaurant. Hmmmm ...

I like to move it ... move it ... FASTER

http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/simplifying_laptop_bag_procedures.shtm

So I see on CNN that there is a new computer storage bag(s) that will expedite the process of getting through security with a type of bag that opens up in the middle or in a tri-fold manner exposing the laptop on one side and the wires on the other therefore making for a cleaner look at the laptop (so I am told or read). So I go directly to the TSA website to dig deeper for more specifics. Many of you are big travelers for work or personal so I thought this might prove useful for you. (TSA=Transportation Security Administration)

GOOD:


Image source from the TSA website.


CAN BE POTENTIALLY A LONGER WAIT IN LINE for personal screening:


Image source from the TSA website.

From the TSA Website:
"What does this mean for passengers?
If you intend to use a checkpoint friendly laptop bag once they are on the market, make sure to check that:

* Your laptop bag has a designated laptop-only section that can lay flat on the X-ray belt
* There are no metal snaps, zippers or buckles inside, underneath or on-top of the laptop-only section
* There are no pockets on the inside or outside of the laptop-only section
* There is nothing in the laptop compartment other than the laptop
* You have completely unfolded your bag so that there is nothing above or below the laptop-only section, allowing the bag to lay flat on the X-ray belt

Disclaimer:
Given TSA’s use of random screening protocols, TSA reserves the right to re-screen any bag or laptop regardless of the design of the bag."

(This information may be updated at any time please visit the website. TSA's website is a public domain and information can be duplicated)."

I conducted a search on "TSA Friendly Bags" and found some good results. Bon chance travelers!