Roseville - Rocklin: Make the Jump with Us

Market Update - March 2011 - Real Estate Watch in Roseville and Rocklin, California

2011-04-25T15:00:00.001-07:00

Market Update - March 2011 - Real Estate Watch in Roseville and Rocklin, California

Enjoy the data of the monthly market trends with REALTORs® Steve Ostrom and Jennifer Klein (and apparently their orange hats and noise makers). I would say sorry for all the commotion we cause in the office, but I love working with these two and doesn't our world need a shot of positive energy? They are upbeat and happy to be working.

So check this video out about the evolving market and trends.

And as the 3 minute mark on the video has stated, no REALTOR®s were harmed in the cropping of this video.

http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com - Roseville and Rocklin Area and Real Estate Information

Steve Ostrom 916-308-2446 • RosevilleAndRocklin AT Gmail DOT com

Jennifer Klein 916-764-2710 • JK AT RosevilleAndRocklin DOT com

2270 Douglas Blvd Suite 120, Roseville CA 95661 - Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Last One There is a Rotten Easter Egg (just kidding) - A few Easter Egg Hunt locations in Roseville and Rocklin

2011-04-21T13:00:00.001-07:00

Local Easter Egg Hunts (that we know about ... ) - Roseville and Rocklin

Listed in no particular order ... please verify times with each group. I'm certain I missed a few great groups, but here's a starter group that I found ... I hear the Chik-Fil-A event is a HOOT and it is mind boggling the show they put on ... (I heard rumors of a ridiculous amount of eggs and they bring in grass just for the event, but if you don't see this, you didn't hear this from me). ;-) Chik-Fil-A is over by Sam's Club and Panera on Pleasant Grove.

I am sure there are more local churches that have Easter Egg hunts ranging from Saturday to Sunday that I have missed. Let me know and I can add them. :-)

To everyone ... I hope you have a wonderful Easter celebration in whatever way you celebrate the holiday / event. *hugs from the Ostroms*

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Saturday

CIty of Roseville: Woodcreek Golf Club is located at 5880 Woodcreek Oaks Blvd., Roseville 95747
- Join us on Sat., Apr 23
  Bunny breakfast buffet 9-11am
  $3.99 kids / $6.99 adults
- Egg Hunt starts at 11:30am
  Festival fun until 2pm

Chik-Fil-A - Easter Egg Hunt (info and comment below via RocklinToday.com)

Saturday, April 23 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Chick-fil-a Pleasant Grove
912 Pleasant Grove Blvd
Roseville, CA

Hunt Times:
9:00 AM - Ages 2 and Under
9:12 AM - Ages 3-4
9:24 AM - Ages 5-6
9:36 AM - Ages 7-8
9:48 AM - Ages 9-10

10:00 AM - Ages 2 and Under
10:12 AM - Ages 3-4
10:24 AM - Ages 5-6
10:36 AM - Ages 7-8
10:48 AM - Ages 9-10

Sunday

- Free Community Easter Egg Hunt - Sunday, Apr 24 9:00a at Wilson C. Riles Middle School, Roseville, CA
  Read more: http://events.sacbee.com/roseville-ca/events/show/179674965-free-community-easter-egg-hunt
- Sierra View Golf Course Members: by reservation and members only ... there is a great Easter Egg Hunt in Roseville at Sierra View CC on Sunday. This is a private golf course and they do put on a fantastic brunch before the festivities that I do recommend. Call to verify the schedule before heading out there: (916) 783-4600 http://www.yelp.com/biz/sierra-view-country-club-roseville
- City of Rocklin: Rocklin Firefighters Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, April 24
  Per City of Rocklin: Sunday, April 24, 2011. The event will take place at 1:00 p.m. at Johnson-Springview Park, 5480 Fifth St., Rocklin.
  This event happens on Easter Sunday of each year, in Johnson-Springview Park. This event is for children ages 10 and under.
  
  Questions? Contact Fire at 916.625.5300 to verify all items and visit this website: City of Rocklin Firefighters - Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Orange "Suits" Me Just Fine ... a fun post by Steve Ostrom

2011-04-16T12:39:00.001-07:00

This is a fun post about questions we are asked often ... little random "factoids" about Mr. O.

We take our job and you seriously ... and yes we have an orange addiction. :-) Oh and Steve loves golf ... and thinks he always makes a fantastic fourth in your foursome.

Steve Ostrom, REALTOR(r) with Coldwell Banker in Roseville, CA

916-308-2446 - RosevilleAndRocklin (AT) GMail (Dot) Com

www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com - Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate

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Why Are They Asking Me To Get Pre-Approved?

2011-03-07T16:29:00.001-08:00

You are getting ready to meet your buyer's agent to write an offer, or you have indicated interest in writing an offer on home "x."

Your agent informs you, "it's suggested you submit your offer with a pre-approval from mortgage consultant or bank 'y.'" What does this possibly mean and why do they do this?

Watch this video for ways to be prepared for this request and the reason why *some* banks or groups might do this ... You will see this many times on bank-owned properties (REO), flip properties and even on short sales.

REALTOR(r) Steve Ostrom with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage license #01344154

Mortgage Consultant with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage: Brian Skarg

To speak/email to or with Brian Skarg, or any other of our preferred lenders, please visit our real estate website:

http://www.rosevilleandrocklin.com/loan.html

Thank you for watching our video blog!

--
http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Steve Ostrom, REALTOR(R)
2008-11 C.A.R. Board of Directors • Placer County Masters Club
Coldwell Banker license #01344154 • 2270 Douglas Blvd #120, Roseville
916-308-2446

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Can I Still Be A "Move-Up" Buyer In Today's Real Estate Market?

2011-02-14T10:58:00.001-08:00

This is a question we are often posed:
"Am I a candidate for moving-up? Do I even have a chance and what do I need to do to see if I even qualify?"

Are you one of these folks pondering if you are a potential move-up buyer? Well, stop wondering and let Meghan Wood or your trusted lender run your numbers to see if it's even in the realm of possibilities. And if you aren't ready now, what steps do you need to make in your life to perhaps have an opportunity to move-up. I know many of us are in a situation where we are grateful to have the home we are in, but we dream of having that extra bedroom or office ... or maybe you want to have a larger back yard or that garage with a third space. Sure it can't happen for anyone, but it might be worth your time to explore that option. Half of what holds us back in life is being afraid to discover answers to our current life situation or problems. No Ostriches! Look up and look forward.

Check out this video and see if it helps guide your mind in the right direction for those that currently own a home and are looking to move-up and what actions they may or may not need to take. Happy house hunting!

Find the amazing Meghan Wood here at Capitol Mortgage in Roseville (Commercial & Residential Loan Consultant)
MWood@CapitolMortgage.com • (916) 871-5466 MLO-278487 Mortgage Advisor

*** Coldwell Banker advises you consult your tax advisor and/or your real estate attorney for all legal and financial comment or action.***

Steve Ostrom REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Roseville CA
2270 Douglas Blvd, Suite 120, Roseville CA 95661
(916) 308-2446 • RosevilleAndRocklin@gmail.com

Find real estate news and learn about local items - Roseville and Rocklin
RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

"Helping Mommy/Daddy hit the unlock button" and Re-keying your New Property

2011-02-12T07:01:00.001-08:00

First here's something I did not know that I think you all might find useful (Placer Co) ...

Did you know if you lock your child in the car (oops I have *almost done this*) ... you should of COURSE call 911 first (repeat first), but did you know Pop-A-Lock offers a FREE community service program called EDU -- Emergency Car Door Unlocking. It's part of Pop-A-Lock’s way of giving back to the community. Wow, that's awesome! Jot their number down right now: (916) 449-9004

So, back to re-keying as you know Steve is a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker and though he even has a re-key disclosure, particularly for his bank owned properties, the same topic keeps on coming up ... "can we have all the keys in the lockbox?" -- My question is "Why?" You should ALWAYS, ALWAYS be re-keying a new property before one item of yours rests in that home.Who KNOWS who has the keys to the home. Re-key that home immediately. Don't wait!

photo courtesy of Pop-A-Lock : Yelp Reviews

So not only do the articles below touch on the importance of re-keying, it's also going to touch on the safety of locksystems. And NO I don't just like them because they have orange in their branding and logo (errr ... well maybe I do a little bit). We truly have treasured working with Kane, Jay Cleto (homeskillet Jay) and Jhenai and the entire team. Thanks for the great items to share Kane.

POP-A-LOCK Q&A: www.popalocksac.com

Should I change (rekey) the locks between tenancies?
Yes! Always rekey the locks between tenancies. Failing to change the locks between tenancies can result in expensive claims of liability if your renter becomes a victim of a burglary or, even worse, a physical crime.
How do I decide on which locksmith to use?
Always ensure the locksmith company is a California licensed locksmith, the employees are in marked vehicles & uniforms.
They should also quote a firm price up front.
Who should I call if a child is locked in a car?
Call 911 first, but give Pop-A-Lock a call too at 1-800-POP-A-LOCK. Pop-A-Lock offers a FREE community service program called EDU -- Emergency Car Door Unlocking. It's part of Pop-A-Lock’s way of giving back to the community.

"Safe and Secure in Your New Home!"
http://www.popalock.com/franchise/placer_county_ca_locksmith.php

It took you six months to find the perfect house and now your family is finally moving
in, however, you may not be aware of who else may have a key to your new home.
Just imagine the possibilities; the former owners may have given a duplicate key to the
neighbors, babysitters, repair people, teenage kids, or relatives. If someone used an old
key to enter your home, there would not be any sign of forced entry and even worse, the
burglar could return to take more items.

... “Every lock comes from the manufacturer with two
keys. If your new home has three doors with deadbolts then you should have four keys
to each door which is a total of 12 keys”, says Rob Reynolds, Director of Locksmith
Operations for Pop-A-Lock. Reynolds adds, “You have security with a lock only when
you can account for every key; if you are buying an existing home, pay for a qualified
and reputable locksmith to change the keyways and establish good key control from the
outset”.

Additionally, Key-in-the knob locksets offer virtually NO security; if your home is
equipped with these, they should be replaced. The most secure locks are double-
cylinder deadbolts, which require a key to operate from either side. The bolt (the part
that extends from the door) should be at least one inch long, and should be hardened
steel. The strike (the plate which the bolt sticks into) should be installed with screws
long enough to engage the structural stud behind the doorframe (and not just the door
frame or trim like many are currently installed).

Pop-A-Lock provides residential re-key services and can change out the keyway to your
new home at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire lock hardware. In addition to
fulfilling customer’s needs in a quick, professional and safe manner ...

Kane Wilkin is the owner of Pop-A-Lock of Sacramento. www.PopALockSac.com. He can
be reached via email at kane@popalock.com or by calling 916-276-4797.

Q&A and "Safe and Secure in Your New Home" are being re-published with permission of Kane W with Pop-A-Lock
Article below is the property of Pop-A-Lock: (provided via Kane W, Granite Bay Pop-A-Lock)

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Welcome Jennifer A. Klein ...

2010-08-11T17:52:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone ... it's Heather O writing today (marketing gal / gal behind the curtain) ...

Steve and I wanted to formally announce the great addition to our team by Vlog and Blog ... welcome Jennifer A. Klein.

A quick snipit about Jennifer ... Jen specializes in short sale negotiations and handling short sale listings. Jennifer also has experience both in California and Nevada investment properties and their management ... Steve has always handled normal sales and REOs / bank owned properties both on listing and buyers, but now with Jennifer by his side, we now feel like we can now effectively cover the spectrum of all buyers' and sellers' needs .... Well enough writing about her ... Please check out what Steve has to say about the rockstar that is REALTOR Jennifer A. Klein. Welcome to Coldwell Banker Jen!

Give us a call today for all of your buying and selling needs ... or your inquiries or questions. Visit our real estate website today: RosevilleAndRocklin.com

916-308-2446

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Untitled

2010-07-30T07:07:00.001-07:00

8258 Twin Rocks Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746

GreatGraniteBayHome.com | $700000 | MLS# 10056182 | Active

Not a REO, nor Short Sale • Special Showing Instructions

Horse Property and near horse trails and Folsom • Prim Res Sq Ft 3027 • Lot Size 2.300*

Check out this amazing home in Granite Bay! It's also something horse owners should maybe take a second look at ... particularly with it's close proximity to Folsom lake. Great horse trails nearby ... Some horse owners nearby, train for the Tevis Cup near here because of the quick access to horse trails. House is a custom-built home (featuring redwood constructruction) with ample built-in cabinetry throughout. Home has a completely remodeled Kitchen that comes with a restaurant-quality "Wolf Stove," recessed lighting and granite counter tops. Baths were also remodeled with custom tile. Energy features: whole house fan, dual pane windows and separate A/C for mother-in-law unit. This property has plenty of room to stretch on and has 2.3 acres*; fencing separates sections. GreatGraniteBayHome.com. Check the MLS for showing instructions.

Horse Trails Nearby • Tevis Cup

Posted via email from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Bank-Owned Properties: Sacramento ( Sierra Vista Oaks ), Lincoln and Citrus Heights.

2010-05-11T14:10:00.001-07:00

Three new bank-owned listings on www.SacBankRepo.com, listed by Coldwell Banker REALTOR Steve Ostrom:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

601 Lilac Lane, Sacramento, CA 95864: MLS # 10036457
There are specific attachments on the Metrolist required.

There are two virtual tours on this property and additional photos
www.SacBankRepo.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

8102 Andante Dr, Citrus Heights, CA 95621: MLS # 10036846
There are specific attachments on the Metrolist required.

Photos posted on www.SacBankRepo.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

683 Newbridge Ln, Lincoln, CA 95648: MLS # 10036121
There are specific attachments on the Metrolist required.

There is a virtual tour on this property and additional photos
www.SacBankRepo.com

Property IS located in Lincoln Crossing

--
http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com
http://RosevilleAndRocklin.posterous.com

2008-10 C.A.R. Board of Directors

Steve Ostrom, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker license #01344154
2270 Douglas Blvd, Suite 120, Roseville, CA
Call or text: 916-308-2446

Posted via web from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

GreatRosevilleHome.com: 203 Epworth Ct, Roseville, CA 95747

2010-05-11T13:38:00.001-07:00

Check out this website I found at this link

A gorgeous home situated in a cul-de-sac. This home is a short sale with an experienced short sale co-agent. Listed by REALTOR Steve Ostrom and Steve Murray of Coldwell Banker. See more home details at http://www.GreatRoseville.com.

REALTOR Steve Ostrom's website: http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Posted via web from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

NEW LISTING: 288 Farmington Circle, Roseville, CA 95678: Spacious and beautiful home for sale (REO / bank-owned)

2010-03-06T13:51:00.001-08:00

Coldwell Banker REALTOR® Steve Ostrom
288 Farmington Circle, Roseville, CA 95678

MLS # 10017621 •• $329,000 BANK-OWNED (REO)
Bedrooms 5 / Bath 3 / Garage 3 : Highland Reserve

Check out this gorgeous home in Roseville. Incredible floor plan with upstairs bonus room. The master is amazing with two spacious closets, a separate shower and tub. Home features crown molding throughout. Two of the other bedrooms also have walk-in closets. Backyard features a raised, stamped concrete patio. Spacious, cheery and open kitchen. Three-car garage as well. All this and located in Highland Reserve! Minutes away from some of the best shopping in the area.

Gated off possible dog run on side. Great backyard. Not too big, not too small and waiting for you to warm things up. Yard has been cleaned up as well as home. Parts of the home have had fresh paint. Carpets have been cleaned.

Fairly quick access to HWY 65 (exit Pleasant Grove). Home does NOT back up to Washington, nor Pleasant Grove. It's spectacular.

Selling bank has a reputation for fast closes! Thank you for showing the property and your offers! C.A.R. Contract plus two addendums (seller and property condition) attached on the MLS.

Please follow up with all offers submitted (call or text) 916-308-2446
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Successor by merger with Wachovia Mortgage FSB

*** Visit Steve Ostrom's primary real estate website to learn more about Roseville and Rocklin home sales and area info at RosevilleAndRocklin.com**

REALTOR® Steve Ostrom ---- 916-308-2446 ---- click for email
2270 Douglas Blvd #120, Roseville, CA 95661 license #01344154
2008-9 C.A.R. Board of Directors

Coldwell Banker - RosevilleAndRocklin.com on Facebook

Posted via web from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Shadow Inventory #2: 2/2010 - Roseville and Rocklin #foreclosure #reo

2010-02-17T14:15:00.001-08:00

Knowing what is coming on the foreclosure market is vital in today's real estate market. It is important for sellers to know what the future competition holds.

If you know there are five homes on your street that are in pre-foreclosure (green circles), then waiting a few months might be a bad idea. I find it difficult to sell a home when there are aggressively priced repos in the immediate area. The reverse is the same for buyers. If you know there are twice as many homes that meet your criteria in some form of foreclosure than on the market, then maybe you should hold off for what you really want. Personally we keep an eye on the foreclosure market for both our buyers and sellers.

Now we have added a foreclosure search to our website. http://rosevilleandrocklin.com/foreclosureradar.html and click on Foreclosure Radar. It is a site we subscribe to and find invaluable. This free search is not as in depth, but it gives you a general feel of a certain area. Please feel free to play around and ask any questions.

It does not give you actual addresses, but we can find that out easily for you. Just click on the details link to the right and we will get back to you ASAP. If you are working with another agent please contact your agent. We are always here to help our clients.

To see details, in reference to the "Call Kurtis" story, click here ... Channel 13

Thanks for your referrals, business and comments.

Steve Ostrom

Real Estate in Roseville and Rocklin

Posted via web from Living, Love and Real Estate: Roseville and Rocklin ~ RosevilleAndRocklin.com

AB (Assembly Bill) 811: Making Roseville and Rocklin Homes More Energy Efficient

2010-01-31T22:06:00.001-08:00

AB (Assembly Bill) 811: Thoughts by REALTOR Steve Ostrom

Here are some more articles we have found on the internet regarding AB 811:

http://eon.businesswire.com/

http://www.placer.ca.gov/upload/bos/cob/.../bosd_100126_02__p9_p12.pdf

Steve will be following up with future video blogs (VLOG) on this topic.

If you have any questions regarding this topic or any others, regarding real estate or the area, please give Steve a call.

916-308-2446

Area, real estate and home information website: RosevilleAndRocklin.com

The comments made here and on the video are only the opinion of REALTOR Steve Ostrom. Please study further in whatever measure you feel confident and comfortable, to formulate your own decision on this Assembly Bill.

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Sunday Sunshine: Local Loves of Roseville, Rocklin and Placer County (part 1 of many)

2010-01-31T12:10:00.001-08:00

So I think every couple of weeks I am going to mention special people Steve and I have worked with over the years, particularly small business owners. Steve and I both subscribe the thought of trying to support local when we can, plus also supporting our friends and family, when appropriate. Some we have used their services or intend to in the future.

We realize not everyone is a perfect fit, but why not put it out there and see if their talents suit your needs?

Here are some spectacular people and their businesses. Check them out and see if they fit your needs.
Thanks to all that have supported us over the years. Right now, even more than ever is the time to seek out and support those around you that are working hard and putting forth a solid, quality product.

#1 Our first feature will be Dr. Nader Zanzi, DMD

Advanced Dental Care: Dr. Nader Zanzi & Dr. Raj Zanzi

6910 Douglas Blvd. Suite F Granite Bay, CA 95746

Phone: (916) 780-7676
Fax: (916) 780-7681
dmd@mygranitebaydentist.com

We worked with Nader and he has a beautiful dental office in Granite Bay. I have personally visited Nader's office, as well as Steve. He is gentle, has updated tools and options and is just an amazing person. You will not regret visiting his office. If you qualify as someone looking for a new dentist or are new to the area of Roseville, Rocklin or Granite Bay, give Nader a call. His staff is just as sweet.

View Larger Map

#2 Second, is a good friend of mine, Janet Brockman, certified massage therapist

Certified Massage Therapist in Roseville, CA

For locals of Roseville, you may recognize her name (her twin is Jill).

Janet offers a variety of massage services {Swedish, Therapeutic, Deep Tissue and Prenatal} as well as specialty therapies {Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology, Aromatherapy Body Wraps, Body Polishes, and Paraffin Hand and Foot Treatments. I, Heather Ostrom, went to Chico with Janet and she is not only a good friend, she is a healing soul to be near.

Right now, many of us are under a tremendous amount of stress whether from work, personal and/or from simply wearing more hats than we ever have in the past, check Janet out for your massage therapy needs. Her place is across the street from Bunz & Company. You will need to set appointments in advance, but it's worth it.

308 Judah Street Roseville, CA 95678
916.223.9468

View Larger Map

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

OooOooh sparkly lights! Where are your favorite Christmas lights locally?

2009-12-18T11:20:00.001-08:00

Local Christmas Light Displays to Check Out!

Do you have any recommendations to share? Thanks for sharing your pictures and hot spots.

Roseville, CA: (in no particular order)

Twinwood Loop & Red Oak Ct, Roseville, CA
These folks really kicked up a notch this year! You won't regret the drive over here. (1 photo below). You can see the homes from Pleasant Grove. They were recently featured on KCRA (2009). One photo below.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Twinwood+Loop,+Roseville,+CA&sll=38.673214,-121.206076&sspn=0.013251,0.025449&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Twinwood+Loop,+Roseville,+Placer,+California+95678&t=h&z=17

After you leave Twinwood Loop, go by the home at the corner of Crescent Dr & Brookhaven Dr. in Roseville (95678) is amazing!! You have to check this one out. It's worth the drive-by. Many homes are decked out in this area, but not always consecutively, which usually brings higher impact. Many cool homes also on Crescent Dr further down.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Crescent+Dr+%26+Brookhaven+Dr.+in+Roseville&sll=38.750176,-121.277432&sspn=0.006618,0.012724&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Crescent+Dr+%26+Brookhaven+Dr,+Roseville,+Placer,+California+95678&t=h&z=17&iwloc=A

***no photo yet***

After leaving the Twinwood Loop and Crescent Drive home ... consider swinging back through the Diamond Oaks golf course area ...

Nicklaus Circle and Hogan Ct in Roseville (95678). They usually do a pretty nice job in this area. I am guessing the name of the street makes at LEAST minimal effort a requirement for the man in the red suit (I am kidding). This year didn't seem QUITE as bright on Nicklaus, but we did note the lights were out on many of the homes, but were up on the trees and houses (maybe we went too early in the season). Still a pretty cute area to drive through and many homes are lit up. Check out Hogan Court ... you Mickey Mouse fantatics. See how many Mickey Ears you can find. It's a pretty cute set up in the court. (2009)

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=nicklaus+cir,+roseville,+ca+95678&sll=38.765846,-121.282454&sspn=0.006408,0.012724&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Nicklaus+Cir,+Roseville,+Placer,+California+95678&ll=38.768096,-121.282614&spn=0.006617,0.012724&t=h&z=17

***no photo yet***

Heading to West Roseville ... here are some more homes ...

Stryker Court, Roseville (95747) ... just like in years ... is still NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING! One of the homes even has their own radio station (I believe it's 88.5 or 88.7FM). Nearby neighbors also have music playing in tune with the lights. This neighborhood has been a constant for amazing displays. This is a must-stop and see every year for us. Numerous homes are decked out and you can see it from Baseline, on the NORTH side of the street. (2 photos below)

http://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&q=Striker+Court+and+Mineral+Springs+Drive,+Roseville&hnear=Mineral+Springs+Dr+%26+Striker+Ct,+Roseville,+Placer,+California+95747&gl=us&ei=vdArS9vmMoTUsQOMionQBA&ved=0CAoQ8gEwAA&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=&ll=38.752383,-121.322179&spn=0.003309,0.006362&z=18

Once you leave Stryker Ct, head NORTH then EAST to Thurton Dr. and Pinion Dr., 95747 (off Longview). This home is a must-see for you Holiday light addicts.This one is spectacular. The home is synced perfectly to the music with two large illuminated trees. Phenomenal!! He also has a radio station to tune into to add to the enjoyment and experience. Radio Station 97.5 FM (I believe). Two photos below.

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Thurton+Dr.+and+Pinion+Dr.,+95747&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Thurton+Dr+%26+Pinion+Dr,+Roseville,+Placer,+California+95747&gl=us&ei=eg0vS82mBIOSsgOzlq2IBA&ved=0CA4Q8gEwAA&t=h&z=16

Over off EAST of Folsom Rd, behind Trader Joe's, there are some great displays ... Marilyn Ave, 95678
This was an "okay" display this year and they do a nice job. Maybe when we drove by the lights were off. Didn't seem as animated with lights, as years past. Seemed like more houses were dark in this area than usual. Might be off timing.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=marilyn+ave,+roseville,+ca&sll=38.745582,-121.278419&sspn=0.012819,0.025449&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Marilyn+Ave,+Roseville,+Placer,+California+95678&t=h&z=17

***no photo yet***

Rocklin, CA:

Pebble Creek Drive and Strand Road, Rocklin, CA <-- one of the best in the area. AND I must state, this is a MUST-SEE for all of you in the P.C. (aka, Placer County). It's behind Bel Air in Rocklin at Stanford Ranch and Sunset. Bring your patience and get caught up in the Christmas spirit. They even have a neighbor with the famous leg lamp from "Christmas Story." A personal favorite of the Ostroms. These folks go ALL OUT. People will be doing their bon fires, roasting marshmellows and former garages will become Santa's workshop and you can see if you are on the good list or not ... in our case, it's year-to-year. You simply must check it out. Cartoon cut out characters and lights galore. (2009)OH and you Twilight Fans and New Moon, the rumor is true ... there is a home that has the famous vampire and werewolf lurking about ... I REALLY recommend you parking the car and walking around. If you have young ones with you, the experience will be memorable. It's a real experience to walk through this winter, wonderlight, Rocklin-land. :-)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Pebble+Creek+Drive+and+Strand+Road,+Rocklin&sll=38.774082,-121.294815&sspn=0.006616,0.012724&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Pebble+Creek+Dr+%26+Strand+Rd,+Rocklin,+Placer,+California+95765&t=h&z=17

***no photo yet***

Granite Bay, CA:

Hidden Lakes Estates does a luminary display that is really special. I haven't done this drive through for a year or two. Maybe someone will have a picture for me to post.

***no photo yet***

Orangevale, CA: I hear this place is amazing, but we haven't visited there yet http://www.dovewoodcourt.com

http://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&q=dovewood+ct,+orangevale&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Dovewood+Ct,+Orangevale,+Sacramento,+California+95662&gl=us&ei=R80rS6WHPJGgswOWr-DIBA&ved=0CAoQ8gEwAA&t=h&z=16

***no photo yet***

Wherever life takes you this Holiday season, please drive careful, don't drink and drive and give a big hug to your loved ones

Love, The Ostroms

Learn about Roseville and Rocklin and real estate: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

1274 Canevari Dr, Roseville, CA 95747: A Virtual Tour through the Home

2009-12-03T12:34:00.001-08:00

via youtube.com

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

1274 Canevari Dr, Roseville, CA 95747 • Home for Sale

2009-11-25T08:46:00.001-08:00

Listing Agent / REALTOR Steve Ostrom 916-308-2446
A nice Thanksgiving treat, check this home out! Not a short sale or REO or flip. *Good old-fashioned sale.* Original owners. Great location near Quail Glen Elementary, newer library, dog park & golf course. Home has been well-loved. Great open floorplan! One of the best features is the sun room, off of the master bedroom w/french door access. Updated fixtures. VA & FHA welcome. Hurry and make this home before the Holidays!

Any questions concerning this particular property or any others,
contact REALTOR / Real Estate agent Steve Ostrom at 916-308-2446
This listing is also featured at our primary website www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

*These numbers and all other stats must be verified by all interested parties.
Information provided by owner and gathered from tax records.

Coldwell Banker - RosevilleAndRocklin.com on Facebook

via greatrosevillehome.com

Home details are at http://www.GreatRosevilleHome.com ... home is fresh to the market 11/24/09. MLS# 90089417 ACTIVE $299,000

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Down the hatch the turkey goes, but don't let that excess oil give your pipes woes.

2009-11-24T16:28:00.001-08:00

This article is from and is the property of the City of Roseville

Dispose of your cooking fats, oils and grease properly now and save yourself and costly mess in the future

It's that time of year when the cooking is kicked up a notch, turkeys, gravies, stuffings and pies, and while the food is fantastic, the cooking generates a lot of excess fats, oils and grease, also known as FOG. If excess FOG goes down the drain it can clog sewer pipes in your home or in the public sewer system that you are connected to.
Many people think once FOG is washed down the drain it is gone for good, especially when detergents claim to "dissolve" grease. In reality FOG doesn’t get far, as the water cools, it sticks to the inside of sewer pipes (both on your property and in the streets) and accumulates over time. This buildup of FOG can restrict or in some cases completely block the flow of sewage causing sewer backups known as sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). SSOs can create serious public health hazards and damage property, which are expensive and unpleasant to clean up.
So how should we handle our leftover holiday FOG? First collect your FOG by wiping it from pots, pans and dishware. Larger amounts will require a spatula or grease scraper, while smaller amounts may only require a paper towel, and store FOG in a container either under the sink or in the refrigerator.
Once you have filled the container, you can dispose of it in a couple of ways:
(1) Call 774-5780 and we will pick it up on your doorstep for free;
or
(2) Bring it to the Western Placer Waste Management Authority’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility. The HHW facility accepts FOG everyday from 8 am – 5 pm and is located on the corner of Athens Avenue and Fiddyment Road (entrance is on Athens Avenue about 1.5 miles west of the Thunder Valley Casino) in Roseville. There is a limit of 15 gallons or 125 pounds of waste per vehicle.
For more information, go to www.roseville.ca.us/foodfats.

via roseville.ca.us

A nice article from the City of Roseville's website about disposing of your excess oils and fats. You do not want to put those things down your sink. Roseville will pick it up for FREE! 916-774-5780

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

2032 Taft Dr, Rocklin CA 85675: Enjoy the 5 min mark

2009-11-17T09:07:00.001-08:00

via youtube.com

Bank-owned listing at 2032 Taft Dr, Rocklin, CA 95765.

3 Bedroom, 1 Den / Office; 3 Baths, Bonus Room, Pool, Spa,Wired Shed (appears to be used as an office or uh ... maybe a "man-cave?")

Please enjoy the 5 minute mark on this video.

Listed by REALTOR Steve Ostrom with Coldwell Banker in Roseville.

916-308-2446

Search real estate in Roseville and Rocklin with REALTOR Steve Ostrom. 916-308-2446

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Real (Estate) Opinions: Men vs. Women (via @ColdwellBnkr )

2009-11-11T06:47:00.001-08:00

via youtube.com

A fun video on who makes the home / property decision in the household. Who wears the pants in your family? Is it more important to be closer to work, be closer to family and what to do with that extra bedroom (man cave/their grunt zone, guest room, play room etc).

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Help Roseville decide their new park names ... We would love your help for our good friend, Fred Festersen

2009-11-10T11:24:00.001-08:00

City seeks names for two new parks, submissions due Dec. 4 (see at http://twitter.com/CityofRoseville )
New Park Names in Roseville ... We would love your help for our good friend, Fred Festersen (jr)

A letter from our good friend, Fred Festersen, Jr for his father Fred Festersen Sr.

Park name suggestion: Fred Festersen Sr

"Dear Friend:

The city of Roseville is seeking names for 2 new parks. One park is an eight-acre park off of Village Green Drive, adjacent to Junction Elementary School. The other park is also an eight-acre park off of Bob Doyle Drive, adjacent to Chilton Middle School. Most of the parks in Roseville are named in honor of outstanding citizens. I’m asking for your support to see that Fred Festersen Sr. is given full consideration for this honor.

My dad has lived in Roseville for 87 years. He attended Roseville public schools and is a class of 1935 Roseville High School graduate. After serving in World War II with his two brothers, he returned to Roseville and began a Real Estate & Insurance firm that was in continuous operation for more than 53 years. During this time, my mom and dad raised 5 children.

During my dad’s business career, he was always heavily involved with the Roseville community. He was a member of the committee that built the original Roseville Hospital and sat on the original Board of Directors. Over the years he sponsored Little League, Bobby Sox and soccer teams. He was commissioner for the Golden Empire Boy Scout commission. He is a two time Past President of Roseville Kiwanis Club and sat on, or presided over the Board of Directors of Sierra Family Services, United Way, Multiple Sclerosis, Roseville Chamber of Commerce, North Roseville Recreation Center, St. Vincent de Paul and the Placer Association of Retarded Citizens. During the 1973 Southern Pacific rail yard bomb explosions, my dad offered his office building on Douglas Boulevard for the insurance adjusters /FEMA to use as their headquarters. He is probably most proud of his contributions to PRIDE Industries as one of its original founders and President of the Board of Directors. His accomplishments and contributions to PRIDE are acknowledged every year as their most prestigious service award named the Fred Festersen Award.

My dad has always given freely of his time, money and energy to make his hometown a better place. I hope that you agree, and I respectfully request that you complete the attached form in this e-mail and return it to me or to the City of Roseville at 311 Vernon Street Roseville, CA. 95678.

Time is of the essence as the City of Roseville is considering park names through December 4, 2009.
For more information please visit http://www.roseville.ca.us/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=1819&TargetID=4 "

We really appreciate your support and consideration friends ...

DOWNLOAD THE PDF HERE FOR ROSEVILLE PARK FORM

Roseville and Rocklin Homes and Real Estate

Find us on our Facebook page

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

117 Marland Ct, Lincoln, CA- REO Back on the Market

2009-11-08T09:24:00.001-08:00

Coldwell Banker REALTOR® Steve Ostrom
117 Marland Ct, Lincoln, CA 95648 **ACTIVE RELEASE CLAUSE**
MLS # 90079233 •• $219,900 ** Bank-Owned
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Successor by merger with Wachovia Mortgage FSB

This is a bank-owned property. This home is a three bedroom with an office for those needing that fourth room (no closet in office). French door entry to office off living room towards the front of the home. The interior of the home is a fun open layout. You will LOVE the Kitchen and the large Master. Master walk-in closet has a built-in organizer. Bedroom 2 & 3 are a good size. Indoor w/d room. Pantry in the Kitchen. Separate family & living room and both are a great size. Family room has two custom enteratinment zones with a fireplace. Modest size backyard, but still plenty of room to stretch and enjoy. Home is situated in a court setting. Fresh sod in the front. Imagination is a powerful tool, so imagine the backyard with lush green lawns.

ENJOY and bring those offers.

Many upgrades in this wonderful home. Including slick slab counters, crown molding and a sharp master closet organizer.

Bank has a reputation for fast closes! Thank you for showing the property and your offers!

FOLLOW UP WITH ALL OFFERS by phone please. 916-308-2446
C.A.R. Contract plus Bank Contract Please follow up with all offers submitted
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Successor by merger with Wachovia Mortgage FSB

photos • virtual tour

Download Property Flyer

All Interested Persons should independently verify accuracy of above information. All information posted here is protected and copyrighted.Above information is provided by Seller and/or other sources and has not been verified by Broker.

*** Visit Steve Ostrom's primary real estate website to learn more about Roseville and Rocklin home sales and area info at RosevilleAndRocklin.com**

REALTOR® Steve Ostrom ---- 916-308-2446 ---- click for email
2270 Douglas Blvd #120, Roseville, CA 95661 license #01344154
2008-9 C.A.R. Board of Directors

Coldwell Banker - RosevilleAndRocklin.com on Facebook

Steve Ostrom's REALTOR® Associations Coldwell Banker • Placer County Association of REALTORs® (PCAR)
• Sacramento County Association of REALTORs® (SAR) • CAR • www.Realtor.com
2008 SAR Board of Directors • 2008 California Association of REALTORs® Board of Directors
Certifications e-Pro • ABR: Accredited Buyer Representative • PicturePath Partner Certified Negotiation Specialist

Designations, Disclaimers, Titles, and Affiliations for 2008

equal housing opportunity

Board of Directors

All photos on this website and RosevilleAndRocklin.com are the property of Steve & Heather Ostrom and require written permission for any duplication of any written or photographic materials used on any sites owned by Steve and Heather Ostrom and/or Ostrom and Associates.

via rosevilleandrocklin.com

Back on the Market (Active Release Clause). Bring your offers now! 916-308-2446 (call or text) http://www.SacBankRepo.com

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

2032 Taft Dr, Rocklin CA 95765 - REO in Rocklin

2009-11-06T11:22:00.001-08:00

Coldwell Banker REALTOR® Steve Ostrom
2032 Taft Dr, Rocklin, CA 95765
MLS # 90085031 •• $319,900 BANK-OWNED (REO)

Bedrooms 3 / 1 Den / 2-story / Bonus Room / Pool & Spa: Sq Ft: 2300+

A great home, come check it out. This home comes with a pool, spa, wired shed in back and an upstairs bonus room with wet bar and study zone. Three bedrooms, a separate den, three full bathrooms, pantry closet & much more. Bank has reputation for closing quick. A gem!

Bank has a reputation for fast closes! Thank you for showing the property and your offers!
C.A.R. Contract plus Bank Contract Please follow up with all offers submitted
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Successor by merger with Wachovia Mortgage FSB

** PLEASE CALL LISTING AGENT BEFORE WRITING OFFERS 11/6**
Wachovia/WF going to Wells Fargo related contracts and/or addendums possibly: 916-308-2446

photos • virtual tour

Download Property Flyer

All Interested Persons should independently verify accuracy of above information. All information posted here is protected and copyrighted.Above information is provided by Seller and/or other sources and has not been verified by Broker.

*** Visit Steve Ostrom's primary real estate website to learn more about Roseville and Rocklin home sales and area info at RosevilleAndRocklin.com**

REALTOR® Steve Ostrom ---- 916-308-2446 ---- click for email
2270 Douglas Blvd #120, Roseville, CA 95661 license #01344154
2008-9 C.A.R. Board of Directors

2032 Taft Dr, Rocklin CA 95765 - REO in Rocklin
Beautiful new Home for sale in Rocklin. It is a bank-owned property with clean carpets and house, cleaned pool and freshened up yard. Check out this home, fresh to the market.

916-308-2446 .... seller is going through transition with new contracts, please call before writing offers.

Steve Ostrom, REALTOR with Coldwell Banker
http://www.SacBankRepo.com/taft
http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Google Searches and Bing Maps: Fun Tools

2009-11-04T13:37:00.001-08:00

Whether you are looking for properties, trying to get a local or out-of-area business ... you might find these tools useful: Google real estate searches with street views and Bing Maps with the Bird's Eye View. Many navigation tools are obvious, but some take some hunting for ... play around with the tools. It's amazing what you can discover.

Google Maps

Google Maps is the new buzz for looking for properties AND foreclosures. Granted you may not see all properties show up and searches and I noticed it's still working out search glitches, but still fascinating. NOT only that, but you can also see (sometimes) a street view of the home you are targeting. Granted NOT a current view, it does lend you an idea of how a neighborhood {might} navigate.

See a sample listing on Google Maps

then when you hit "more" .... you can select "street view" which does happen to work for this property.

View Larger MapView Larger Map

Learn more specifics about Google real estate here.

Bing Maps

Something also I have found useful lately is when there isn't a "Google street view," (many streets in Placer County don't have their streets on view). I have been finding myself using Bing! Maps for their cool "Bird's Eye View." Very similar to what you will find on Zillow maps. You can navigate a 360 aerial pattern around the target home. Again, not current, but a fun tool to access.

See a sample usage of same property on BING Maps

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Fantastic REO in Sun City Lincoln Hills: 1700+ sq feet with upgrades

2009-11-04T13:17:00.001-08:00

Beautiful home in Sun City Lincoln Hills. Over 1790+ square feet, 2 bedroom with a 3rd room den (no closet). Wonderful upgrades. Please feel free to contact listing agent and REALTOR Steve Ostrom with Coldwell Banker.

Visit our website: http://www.SacBankRepo.com to see more details on the area and more about this particular home and learn about the area of Sun City Lincoln Hills and nearby golf course.

916-308-2446 • Steve Ostrom, REALTOR Coldwell Banker license #01344154

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

New REO Condo listing in Citrus Heights

2009-10-30T21:49:00.001-07:00

New REO Listing in Citrus Heights: Condo / Townhouse

6178 Shadow Ln, Citrus Heights 95621

Incredible town house that backs to a greenspace with views from the master bedroom. Two larger bedrooms. Appears to have newer siding and dual pane windows. Bottom floor has recently replaced carpets and the rest has been steam cleaned. Bank has a reputation for closing quickly.

See more photos at SacBankRepo.com: Bank Owned Listings for REALTOR Steve Ostrom.

Steve Ostrom Coldwell Banker REALTOR in Roseville, CA 9163082446

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

I Eat Grass Clippings for Breakfast!

2009-10-26T14:47:00.001-07:00

via flickr.com

Calling all Placer or Sacramento County licensed, insured and bonded yard clean up crews, we need your services! If you are interested in yard clean up and maintenance of a few local REO / Bank-Owned properties, please contact REALTOR Steve Ostrom with Coldwell Banker. 9163082446 or respond to this post.

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Thank you Chris! Rocklin will miss you.

2009-10-15T07:26:00.001-07:00

Thank you Chris for letting Steve help you out with your real estate transaction in Rocklin. Even though we don't like to see you leave Rocklin, we wish you the best in your journey to be closer to the ocean. Chris is an amazing woman and was a joy to work with ... we are so darn lucky to have so many cool and sweet clients. This home went to pending within days with multiple offers. The property marketing looked great ... Chris did almost everything we asked to prep the home. We moved furniture, minimized and did all we could to make this home sparkle and it all worked out splendidly. As Steve would say, "faaaaantastic!"

GreatRocklinHome.com is now available for your home.

Life is too short to not live it the way you see fit. Start taking the steps to make your life better.
Best of luck in your future home Chris and thanks again for the opportunity and congratulations on the SALE!

Sincerely,
Steve, the REALTOR and Heather the marketing gal. :-)

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

From @SteveOstrom: Where will I be next week? I will be at the C.A.R. Expo in San Jose

2009-09-30T10:27:00.001-07:00

@CAREALTORS #CARExpo

Don't miss this spectacular opportunity to expand your knowledge, learn about new items in our industry and also hear some great expert panelist(s) in the field.

See more details on the C.A.R. Expo by clicking here: http://expo.car.org/

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

Roseville Used Book Sale (CA)

2009-09-29T09:27:00.001-07:00

Looking to pass on your books? Would you like to help out your local library?
Fall Used Book Sale October 10 and 11, 2009: Riley Community Library

Details here: http://www.rosevillefriendsofthelibrary.org/calendar.htm

Don't forget, you can donate too: donations can be dropped off at 316 Vernon Street on weekdays

Roseville Friends of the Library: http://RosevilleFriendsOfTheLibrary.org

Posted via web from rosevilleandrocklin's posterous

CA REALTOR Steve Ostrom: Vlog 2: Shadow Inventory

2009-09-28T11:39:00.001-07:00

Steve on Coldwell Banker's YouTube channel

Gotta get that home sold!

2009-09-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

We have been staying QUITE busy lately as you can see below.
Boom! Boom! Pow! Want that home? It's too late.

Steve's listings are getting a quick turnaround to pending. I would like to think it's partially our exposure we give to homes to the net and via social media. Heather was just on GoodDay Sacramento with her friends on the #SacTweetUp Dream team ... See the segment here: http://gooddaysacramento.com/?articleID=60399. We blend old with the new and like to find new ways to get your property exposed.

Our newest listings is amazing and it is sparkler! The website came out great and you can see a sample of our marketing style.

Steve's VLOG on shadow inventory is getting nice reviews and I highly recommend you take a look. It's now on the Coldwell Banker YouTube website: http://www.youtube.com/user/coldwellbanker#play/uploads/6/0wOubwRSCX

www.GreatHomeGreatYard.com : Home for Sale in Citrus Heights
ACTIVE 7142 Maretha Dr, Citrus Heights, CA 95610 Amazing house with many custom features. 2000+ sq feet with land to stretch on. Architectural features, upscale feel, customized Kitchen, remodeled Master bath, separate office from bedrooms and bkyd playzone

www.GreatRocklinHome.com Home for Sale in Rocklin
PENDING 3343 Clearview Ct, Rocklin, CA 95765
Original owner: great enclosed porch. Home is awaiting your loving touch and efforts.

www.GreatAntelopeHome.com:Home for Sale in Antelope
PENDING 4200 N. Country Antelope, CA 95843 Turn key inside and outside. This home shines and sticks out from the rest. Open feel and vaulted ceilings make home feel much larger than square feet would indicate. Fresher paint inside and out. Newer roof,

www.WellPricedHome.com: Home for Sale in Foothill Farms 95842
PENDING 4849 Vogelsang, Sacramento, CA Original owner: great enclosed porch. Home is awaiting your loving touch and efforts.

www.SacBankRepo.com/albemarle: REO Property in Rio Linda
PENDING 728 Albemarle Ave, Rio Linda 95673
Bank-owned property in Rio Linda. Light rehab. Offers require bank-contract.

If you are looking to relocate to Roseville or Rocklin, please do visit your website. You will love it.
RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Our facebook fan page is: http://www.Facebook.com/rosevilleandrocklin

Shadow Inventory

2009-09-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

Steve's 2nd Video Blog ... (pssst he meant Mac doesn't work well with MetroList).

Real Estate Current

2009-08-11T14:48:00.001-07:00

Business has been keeping us extraordinarily busy, but never too busy for your questions ... if you have any questions please don't hesitate to call or email us.

No question is too small. The only ridiculous question is the one not asked, in my book. We want to help you in any way we can.

Curious how short sales are evolving?
What's going on with Bank-Owned Properties in Roseville and Rocklin?
What is a short sale? How does the foreclosure process work?
Where do I start with the short sale process?

Many items need to be handled by legal and financial professionals, but please give Steve a call and if he isn't the appropriate one to assist ... he can guide you to someone that is an option to speak with ...

Thanks for your consideration, interviews and opportunities.

Steve Ostrom
916-308-2446

Twitter ...

2009-08-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

I am often asked "what, who, where is Twitter?" "What is it?" "I don't understand it?" "Why do you do it?" Or more commonly I get snickers or snide comments such as, "I tried it and I think it's a waste of time." To each their own, I know Twitter is NOT everyone's cup of tea, but for me ... I personally take great pleasure on my windows of time I spend on Twitter.

As with our Facebook fan page, I source local events and going-ons in Roseville and Rocklin, but I also interact with others. I follow some purely on relationship (usually because I find them funny, sweet or amazing), but others I follow because they enrich my mind whether in real estate, marketing or design. All on the edge material and what's happening RIGHT now.

BUT if interacting is not your forté ... may I suggest making an account just to follow others for the latest news, or your favorite companies. It's an amazing tool and many companies are using it as their sounding board of latest items and updates.

You can even make a RSS feed with your favorite follow!

There is NO right way to use the tool, but there are plenty of wrong ways. Spam and getting followers in masses is generally looked down up by the general "regular" twitter community. If you are just spouting off about your great product and listing off your newest listed home and NEVER interact with others ... you WILL NOT get ANYTHING out of Twitter. Who wants to engage on a one-way street? C'mon put your thinking cap on here, it doesn't take a genius to realize that fact. There has to be balance with the information you put forth, take the time to engage with another or perhaps even push their information forward [called a ReTweet (RT)] I usually keep my personal business to about 20% or less of my tweets, BUT when I do tweet business ... it's usually received well.

If you do take up the twitter to engage and chat with others and listen ... it's amazing what will not only happen to your experience, but your mind will develop and you can meet new people. Who knows where the world can take you. It's the freshest way to meet others and also perhaps network. Take a look at some of the big companies, like Southwest and Starbucks who have used this opportunity to work directly with their consumers. They are a "touchable big brand."

Please of course use safety and be smart about your public matters. Stating your location real time should be used with caution and establishing patterns.

Here are some of the faces I follow on Twitter.

Get your twitter mosaic here.

If ever you want a leg-up on this Twitter world, or you have questions on how it works and how to incorporate twitter into your personal or business platform, write me any time. You will need a logo or avatar or small photo of yourself. Decide how to present yourself ... I encourage a real photo at first ... second get a bio up ... large or small. Third, use the search tool to find locals and/or find people within your trade or profession or interest. "Sacramento Moms" or "Real Estate Roseville" ... start there and start talking using the @ symbol directly in front of their name.

Many of the folks I follow are amazing, local business people. I feel so lucky to know so many exciting, creative and motivated minds. Plus many I have met in real life and now I call friends ...

Sure you might not enjoy the experience, but I see so many asking questions about it, I will be happy to help in any way I can ... plus you can ask me about other forms of social media and tools we help ourselves with our business.

Enjoy your experience wherever you are!
Happy living!

Smart buyer knocking on short sales & REOs

2009-08-04T13:36:00.000-07:00

Okay ... so I am on a kick of YouTube-i-cus ...
I love music and it fires me up.

Today is smart "Knocking on Wood" ... because sometimes we need to create your luck to find your treasure these days in real estate and sometimes you have to be knocking in the right place with the right tools.

So a repeating theme lately for Steve is luck created ... he does a great job getting your offer seen, but obviously how the seller proceeds are out of one's direct control. Discuss with Steve, "how can I achieve what I desire in a home both in it's structure and location at "x" price."

Banks don't always respond the way and in a time frame you want them to ... Not all banks work the same, not all short sales execute the same ... also is there more than one bank involved, liens, etc. Also there is that little tidbit with financing called an appraisal too ... Realize this is business and not personal ... if you have that in your head, then you are ahead of many in the home battle. Put your emotions aside and push ahead with a business attitude. Find the home with your mind, heart to solve functionality and life issues, but when it comes to writing the offer ... bust out that business buddy hat and "bring it."

Bank-owned (REO): Some banks take seven days to respond to an offer, others might be same day ...
Short Sale (ss): Some can respond in 30 days, some can be already pre-approved, others can take months and months for just a response and/or approval.

Does "bring your highest and best offer" have you twitching? Keep control, do what your financially comfortable with cross-referenced with is THIS the home for me? Don't let this language set you into a frenzy. It IS scary to not know what's going on and not having an absolute resolve. But answer this: will I be okay the day after the property closes, both emotionally and financially and feel as though I did the right thing?

Remembering what is your "forever house" and what is a "stepping stone" often helps many. Granted you never know what tomorrow or today holds, but keep in mind ... we cannot achieve the world in one day.

Steve has had great luck with bank-owned listings and short sales. More than I could have ever imagined as Steve's RE assistant and marketing gal. I am not shocked, but I feel grateful we continue to thrive in this current real estate environment.

If Steve can help you in any way in your real estate needs or real estate questions ... just knock ...
916-308-2446

What's "the Best" mean anyhow?

2009-08-04T12:45:00.001-07:00

It's hard for me not to snicker when I read, "I am the best [ insert profession here ]." What exactly does that mean? When you speak of yourself in such a manner does that really work? I suppose it does because it would naîve of me to not realize it's a Google world. Everyone has their niché and I bet that many like to read such language, but for me it seems like a term that insinuates that you just may not fit your big head through a door. Just sayin' ...

But hey if someone is googling "best+your profession" kudos to you. I like knowing we are great fit for just the right people. I am not sure I want to be the best for everyone. We all have our place and what we are good at and ultimately I feel that makes us better at what we do and how we proceed in life to work effectively ... Ultimately relationships established make business timeless and loyalty happen.

I firmly believe, "best" in any profession or product, resides in a match/fit of personality, working habits or desires fulfilled. For Steve's business, ultimately meshing communication styles and/or in real life (IRL) personality clicks has been our key to successful business relationships, BUT we are not perfect for all and if we only have an email to follow up with you, please know ... email is never a sure thing and can get lost in the mix (yahoo, yahoo, yahoo, yahoo) ... so it's hard when we don't get a phone number to follow up. Sometimes the emails go through, sometimes they don't ... Communication is a two-way street and sometimes it simply isn't going to happen unfortunately.

I mean ... we have a goldfish on our real estate home page, isn't that the universal sign for nice people? ;-) Give Steve a call anytime: 916-308-2446 ... interview him and see if he is your "best" real estate fit. He may not be ... but if our teams seems like a great option, we look forward to meeting you.

Have an amazing week all! Good luck finding your "BEST" in life.

Keeping it real in Roseville ...

4849 Vogelsang Dr, Sacramento, CA 95842 - Zillow

2009-07-17T10:23:00.001-07:00

4849 Vogelsang Dr, Sacramento, CA 95842 - Zillow

Posted using ShareThis

Steve Ostrom's first VLOG (Video Blog): "It's Not Just Price"

2009-07-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

Pull back the red curtain ... Steve's joining the blogging!
REALTOR Steve Ostrom's first video blog: "It's Not Just Price."

Real Estate Website for Roseville and Rocklin (and other parts of Placer County)
916-308-2446

Are you on Facebook?

2009-07-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

If you are on Facebook and/or you are relocating to Roseville or Rocklin (or already live here) ... you might enjoy our Fan page.

We already have quite a few locals who have enjoyed the page and we keep you on top of local happenings and what's coming in the area. PLUS local events.

It's not heavy on the sell and we do try to keep it "area-info" based.
Occasionally we will tell you about one of Steve's listings. I know, there's always a catch, but did I mention we are not only savvy, but we also have a great sense of humor (not verified).

Please feel free to add Steve O as a friend! http://www.Facebook.com/steveostrom

Thanks for being a Facebook fan! Click the link below to join.

Coldwell Banker new service in NYC!

2009-07-08T10:08:00.001-07:00

Visit Steve's real estate website for Roseville and Rocklin area information and links to homes for sale in the area.

8787 Brittany Park, Sacramento, CA 95828

2009-06-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

Steve's REO listings are starting to trickle in ...
Keep your eyes open if you have your finger on the pulse of bank-owned properties ...

This property is a gorgeous home off of Vintage Park. Check it out:

http://www.SacBankRepo.com/brittanypark

From 8787 Brittany Park 95828

Visit the REO listing website ... or call Steve for more details on this property or any others. Most of the information is available on the link above. If you have been targeting this area for investment properties or your personal home, you might want to consider seeing this property.

This property is EAST of Hwy 99 (map on the property website + more photos)

Thank you for your consideration and business.

Real Estate, Home and Searches in Placer County: Roseville and Rocklin: http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Yippy yi yeah ... Don't forget to laugh this week

2009-06-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

Have you laughed today? What type of person do you like to work with during a stressful transaction?

We believe in the theory that life needs the balance of laughter after we get our work done.

So on that note ... here is a commercial that makes me giggle.
Sure this commercial has been around the track and YES I know it's already outdated, BUT my daughters keep on singing it. Others are STILL singing it. The amazing positive effect of laughter and a smile.

This commercial is memorable & clever.

Don't be the norm, do something different today especially if it involves bringing a smile to another's face. People never forget someone that makes them smile or feel good.

We cannot always control our circumstances and variables,
but we can control our attitude. Don't forget to laugh.
Life is too short to have it plain jane.

Make a great week friends!

*To the commercial music* We hope we can be your Yipee-Ki-Yay to your next house.

Real Estate & Home Searches: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com
If you have any questions concerning real estate, interviewing Steve as your REALTOR, any homes in your neighborhood OR your home, please give us a call anytime: 916-308-2446

Thank you!

2009-06-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

<--- Our most recent postcard
(Yes those two little blonde ants are our daughters in the bottom right.)

We have been blessed with many great clients in the PAST and in the PRESENT ... and I just want to take this opportunity to thank all that have taken the chance with us and "Made the Jump With Us." We have enjoyed working with you all and look forward to helping the rest of ya!

2008 was one of our best years and you may have seen Steve's pic in the Master's Club section in Placer County & Sacramento. 2009 is proving to move in the same direction if not exceed our expectations. Why is that? Well I would like to think it is mostly because of good experiences and word of mouth, but MOST importantly ... I know for a fact it is primarily because of online reviews and the photos Steve has taken with clients at closes. I cannot count the times where someone stated to me, "well we went with you because of your online presence and also because of your photos and online reviews."

And YES, these are REAL photos. I had one agent state, "are those photoshopped?" Nope. And aren't they cool? :-)

Some of my DEAR friends have also stated, "where's my picture" these are just pics from last year and this year (2008 & 2009). Gosh I didn't know there would be such a stir leaving some 2 yr old photos out ... EEeek sorry. So in response to those comments, here are ALL the pictures of all the clients that were so gracious to pose with Steve.

View pictures here: http://picasaweb.google.com/HeathrMayO/WebsitePhotosRosevilleAndRocklinCom?feat=directlink

Website Photos: RosevilleAndRocklin.com

We hope you all are healthy, safe and well wherever you may be at this point in your life. Thank you also for your referrals or heck just give us a call!

I personally love when you share pics of your upgrades!
Give me a shout on Twitter! (it's Heather only on Twitter)
AIM, Yahoo or Google IM!

Steve is also on Facebook!

http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com
Coldwell Banker -- Steve is a REALTOR in Roseville, CA
2008-2009 Board Director for California Assoc. of REALTORs
2008 Board of Director for SAR (Sacramento)

Twitter & UStream ... finding new ways to meet our audience

2009-05-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

If you are self-employed and not utilizing Twitter, you are missing out! Honest. It's an amazing forum of sharing and opportunities to find others with like minds and/or in your target audience.

I don't necessarily talk at all about real estate, one because I myself am NOT a REALTOR and two that isn't the primary reason I delve occasionally into the Twitter world. There is so much marketing genius hiding in front of your eyes.

Improving your business isn't always about promotion sometimes it is about improving yourself. You never know what the next door holds and what treasures another person may reveal to you even if unrelated to your goals. Life should be beauty full of different flowers! The most amazing things often come from unexpected places.

I have made amazing friendships & contacts already with just such a short amount of time. I treasure twitter for meeting people to bring joy, knowledge and feed my brain with more opportunities to improve myself both internally & from a business perspective.

Twitter is not a program where you post and let it go. You must interact to feel it's power & ability to change your perspective. The world becomes a much smaller place on Twitter.

Through Twitter, I have also been introduced to new ways of advertising such as UStream which I am anxious to try out. I am thinking of hosting an open house on Twitter for clients interested in having a virtual tour LIVE! Where we could interact and travel to the areas of the property requested. I have participated in many live chats to improve and observe the live feed w/chat rooms. It is amazing!

We must keep on moving and never be complacent with standing still. Knowledge is a continuous process to achieve success. I am always striving for new ways to improve my role as a marketing person for Steve. My role is to visually communicate to as many people I can and in a positive fashion. Create interest in a home has taken a new face in the marketing world and I want to be a part of that movement!

It is NOT okay just to post pictures and call it a day for a property listing in my book!

Congratulations! Selling a House, buying a Home ...

2009-05-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Well Steve's listing in Granite Bay is sold! Our lovely buyers found an amazing home in Lincoln Hills & IT IS a beauty. We were so lucky to have the honor of helping out with selling and buying their homes! What a wonderful experience. Thank you W's for letting us help you out. You were amazing to work with and thank you for the opportunity. I hope life in Del Webb Lincoln Hills treats you both kindly (as well as the golf course Gary).

I posted the pic with our daughter because I found it amusing that she thought she had to do her own photoshoot with our FLIP camera. She is a bossy little woman and I love it that she already feels the urge to point-and-click! She is my assistant in training, but with toddler temper tantrums on an occasion. Well she basically boiled over here ... That is OBVIOUSLY an Ostrom trait, that would NEVER be me. ;-) If you don't have a FLIP video camera, why not? It is phenomenal.

One of these days I am going to start getting people to give video endorsements! :-)

The flip ULTRA even comes with a tripod mount capability amongst many other things!

I must say, life has been treating us kindly. Steve has already made Masters Club for NEXT year! 2008 was great & 2009 is only getting better. If you didn't see us, Steve was in the SacBee last weekend for Masters Club. What is Master's Club? Click here.

Are you looking to buy or sell a home? http://www.GreatGraniteBayHome.com is available now as well as many others ... I won't get too "queso" on you, but we do feel as though we do a great job marketing homes for sale.

We may not be your cup of tea, but give us the opportunity for an interview!

We are a funny, hard working duo that gets the job done with a smile. It's cliché, but we aren't your average bear. ;-)

Any questions, call or email us? 916-308-2446

or Steve@SteveOstrom.com

Visit our real estate & area website: http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Twitter and the evolution of learning online media

2009-03-05T09:19:00.000-08:00

Before we start, this will probably burn your eyeballs out and the starter in your brain if you haven't become familiar with the phenomenon known as Twitter. If you are ready for me to entertain your brain with a new front, read on PARTICULARLY if you are a self-employed individual ... and if you don't know what twitter is ... here is a bit about it and YOU SHOULD look into it http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twitter and also here is Twitter's website.

BUT please note: when I first looked at the site, I thought, "what in tarhooties is this?" I didn't "get it." Nor was I sure how my role would play in this online dialogue or community as a graphic designer STILL with her business license, but taking on a permanent role working with her husband and loving it.

As the Muppets Kermit used to say ... on with the show ...

So last night, Wednesday March 4th I went to a "tweet-up." What is a tweet-up you ask? It is an event related to Twitter.com. Hmmm ... I am not 100% certain I fully comprehend and nor effectively explain in a concise fashion how to describe other than it is a social media networking gathering. I am still new to the twitter media so it was nice to speak to people how they use the website (or whatever you call it) and also learn some proper tw-etiquette. ;-) It was also an opportunity to put some live individuals locally and learn about other businesses. I don't care for the hard sale, ever and I can sniff a cheese-ball, slick willy from a mile away, but it really wasn't like that, which was my deep down fear. Nor was it a geek-a-thon, but hey I am a geek in some fashion and I take full pride in it. BUT I also know the limitations of my knowledge and it was quite refreshing to be around people with more or varying experience in other media tools and also expose myself to other ways to market myself. If anything a new perspective from others and how they approach marketing themselves and also how they effectively use the "twitter-tool" if and only if just for talking with others and sorting out thoughts and concepts.

So here's how my late afternoon continued prior to the tweet-up ... it's 6pm (it started at 6pm), and I was quite apprehensive to make the trek down to Sactown to go to this tweet-up as I had no clue as to what to expect or WHO. It was pretty nerve-wracking for a usual cool cookie with speaking to other people from a new media I was still observing and still figuring out. I am quite certain I told my husband Steve at least a half-dozen times I wasn't going to go. But I did give in and made a pact with myself, "hey I can always leave or turn around after I put my face up against the window and peer in to the joint."

So I arrive at Panera, where the "tweet-up" was being hosted and Panera was being mobbed. I was told there were 70+ over the duration of the couple of hours it lasted (or so). Almost standing room only, so I am afraid many innocent laptop users were face-to-face with a face-to-butt scenario if they opted to stay seated. Many people were inquiring, "what is this?"

So I peaked in to make sure my entrance was not a mistake. Initially I felt quite shy and went into my observation mode. I did a lap and grabbed an ice tea then went in for positioning. Luckily I met some kind and great people that took me under their wing to chat and from there it went great. I met so many interesting, intriguing AND funny people last night. I also learned how to effectively use Twitter (whether personal experience and literal use).

What a fantastic group of people and what a way to get energized again about your work. It felt so good to be so excited to be working again and also that I was willing to jump out of my comfort zone for the sake of learning and meeting new people. I have learned so much about new forms of online media these past two weeks then I have for so long. Thank you to all who made my night so much fun, enlightening and entertaining.

The next event is actually here in Roseville at the Boxing Donkey in Old Town Roseville. Here is the Boxing Donkey's website. I have been wanting to go there for so long, but with kids, outings take a bit more coordination.

So if you are looking for a new way to meet new business people and learn about Twitter and online social networking, please check it all out.

If you want to learn more about SacTweetUp: it is #sactweetup and/or go to this website where they post local events for SacTweetUp.

Thanks sincerely to http://twitter.com/successfool and http://twitter.com/sierrafriend for all of their efforts, organization and sharing their ideas with all of us. It was a wonderful event.

So wonderful to find new ways to integrate my different loves of new media, online networking and also discover new ways to market and brand my husband's line of work in real estate. You must keep swimming and learning!

Dip your toe in the water and take a swim!

Thanks,
Heather O
RosevilleAndRocklin.com: the Real Estate Marketing Gal

Best of Best in Rocklin and Loomis!

2009-01-06T09:26:00.001-08:00

See the list of the best of Best in Rocklin. A fun list always and a great guideline for fun places to go ... http://www.placerherald.com/pub/rocklin/special_sections.html?p=best-best-rocklin%2Fissue%2Fbest-best-rocklin-2008

Here are the places I have experienced, I speak/write truthfully ...

High-Hand Nursery, one of the winners is really a beautiful place. My friend in fact got married there! It is a beautiful setting and I have to go back to have lunch there now. I hear they have changed up the place and what it offers. The plant and flower selection are mind boggling and presentation thereof is just spectacular. If I remember correctly they also have a koi set up. Might be wrong. I highly recommend you check them out and heck even pick up a beautiful plant.

Planet's Best Pizza is AMAZING. Freshest and most amazing pizza ever. My friend introduced me to this place and although a bit out of the way for me, it is well worth the drive. You must check this place out. As far as I know it is still take-out only. Staff is always charming and I love their little map on the wall of all the "regulars" ... too cute and great grub!

Granite Rock Grill ROCKS. Nothing else to say. Food is fantastic and everytime we have frequented this place with friends WITH kids, it has been nothing short of amazing service. THey cater to our kids and are unbelievable with great food to go with it.

Icing on the Cupcake is good too. Adorable shop and presentation. They do a great job of marketing. Bringing this to a party, say a variety pack, you will be the hit of the girlie outing. Try all the different flavors. Many people swear by these beautiful little cupcakes. I think they are pretty good, but the variety of flavors and fun make this a great stop. Plus they have a recycling box policy (or least they did in 2008).

Beach Hut Deli is a great sandwich. My pocket books don't always hit this sandwich all the time, but I must say they serve up an incredible sandwich. So many fun, tastebud tingling, combinations.

Unbelievably I haven't been to is the new Nugget marget. Best Market. (Bel-Air/Raleys won best Grocery Store) But I have experienced their AMAZING produce. Phoooey! TALK about good fruit, bar none some of the best in the area (besides of course the farmers market). I hear it is beautiful and I love the beautiful retro paintings on the side of the building. Beautifying our world with art ... love it. One day I will step inside. The environmental graphics pieced with the beautiful entrance really add class to our area.

Start enjoying!

Two properties with Acreage: Back on the Market Pleasant Grove and Granite Bay Home Still Available!

2009-01-02T10:04:00.000-08:00

Back on the market after a buyer didn't work out, inspections conducted (well, pest, etc)! Check it out. This is a ridiculously well-priced home and must sell. Call for more details to Steve: 916-308-2446. This property is VERY easy to show. Owner has made so many great modifications to this property with a visually matching 2nd unit on the property that can stay or go. You make the call a possibly great "mother-in-law" unit for you. Pleasant Grove is just outside of the West part of Roseville.

6450 South Brewer Rd, Pleasant Grove, CA 95668
Property website: http://www.GreatHomeWithAcreage.com

Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/HeathrMayO/6450SBrewerPleasantGrove95668?feat=directlink

Second, check out this great home still available in Granite Bay! A charming home with an amazing property. Owner has so many amazing modifications to the property and an irrigation system that you will certainly appreciate. Tons of information available on this property as it has been well-taken care of ...

6235 Reba Dr, Granite Bay, CA 95746
http://www.GreatGraniteBayHome.com

Listings courtesy of REALTOR Steve Ostrom with Coldwell Banker
916-308-2446
http://www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com

Bank-Owned Properties: Two Actives

2009-01-02T09:50:00.000-08:00

A new property and another we need to get off the books!

First one is
7745 Dixie Lou, Sacramento 95832.
It is new to the market (New Years Eve).
Younger home and freshly painted. Reasonably sized backyard. Adorable layout to the home and nice kitchen with pantry. Flooring is beautiful and front room is bright and cheery. A real charming home.

http://picasaweb.google.com/HeathrMayO/7745DixieLou95832?pli=1&feat=directlink

Second property is a charming early 60s home with beautiful wood flooring, but is on a busier street.
2061 Meadowview, Sacramento 95832
Perfect for someone that doesn't mind or perhaps an investor? Great access to the bus stop and public transportation and easy freeway access. Flooring is gorgeous and spacious great room with a great sized yard! Give this property a 2nd look:

http://picasaweb.google.com/HeathrMayO/2061MeadowviewSacramento95832?feat=directlink

Pending properties:
7408 Morningside Citrus Heights, CA 95621
3817 Fell Street Sacramento, CA 95838
8217 Newport Park Ct, CA 95828

Listings and information courtesy of REALTOR Steve Ostrom with Coldwell Banker
http://www.SacBankRepo.com
http://www.RosevillAndRocklin.com

916-308-2446

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

2008-12-31T08:37:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-15T17:09:00.001-08:00

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?

2008-11-09T05:52:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-09T05:30:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-10-31T06:08:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-26T20:00:00.000-07:00

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 ...

2008-10-19T05:52:00.001-07:00

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 ...

2008-10-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

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 ...

2008-10-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

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 ...

2008-10-14T05:09:00.000-07:00

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!