Online Journal

SD LUXURY HOME VALUES RISE!

November 30, 2011

This is a great article on the rise of Luxury Home Values in the 3rd quarter of this year. 

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov 28, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Luxury home values rose in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco in the third quarter of 2011 compared to the second quarter, according to the First Republic Prestige Home Index(TM) by First Republic Bank, a leading private bank and wealth management company.

In the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2011, the Index indicated the following:

-- Los Angeles area values rose 0.7% from the second quarter of 2011 and increased 2.5% from the third quarter a year ago. The average luxury home in Los Angeles is now $2.01 million.

-- San Diego area values increased 1.1% from the second quarter and fell 3.9% year-over-year. The average luxury home in San Diego is now $1.63 million.

-- San Francisco Bay Area values climbed 1% from the second quarter and declined 1.4% from a year ago. The average luxury home in San Francisco is now $2.53 million.

"Luxury home prices in many California communities increased due to low inventories, low interest rates, and home prices that have declined over the past few years. This has improved the economics of investing in residential real estate," said Katherine August-deWilde, President and Chief Operating Officer of First Republic Bank. "All three major metropolitan areas in California experienced gains in home prices in the third quarter, which is the first time that has occurred since the fourth quarter of 2010."

First Republic Bank produces the Prestige Home Index each quarter with Fiserv CSW Inc., a leading provider of automated property valuation services and home price metrics to U.S. financial institutions. Historical results of the Index, which has tracked luxury homes since 1985, are accessible at www.firstrepublic.com . First Republic Bank is an active lender in the luxury home market for primary residences and vacation homes.

Los Angeles Area Values

In Los Angeles, values have increased in three of the past four quarters. The highest end of the luxury market appeared to be the most robust, agents said.

"For homes priced at $5 million and up, the market remains active," said Jane Brill Graven of Coldwell Banker Beverly Hills East. "There are well-qualified buyers who are looking for properties at the very top end and they have the upper hand. Owners are having to reduce prices to where the market is."

Along the beach communities, the market was largely unchanged from a year ago. "If we had more and better product, we would have had more transactions in the past 12 months," said Barry Host of South Bay Brokers in Manhattan Beach. "Buyers with money are out there, but there is also a lot of uncertainty. Unless the news starts to settle, the market will continue to bump along."

San Diego Area Values

San Diego prices turned positive again after declining in the first half of 2011.

Despite the modest quarterly increase, luxury home prices remain soft, and many buyers remain uncertain. "We are very busy, but every single deal is a major struggle," said Lucy Kelts of Prudential California Realty in Rancho Santa Fe. "You have to talk realistically with sellers up front. We're not going to get out of this mess until the jobless rate goes down by half."

Greg Noonan of Prudential California Realty in La Jolla said the lower end of the luxury market was picking up. "I'm seeing a bit of pent up demand in the $1.5 million to $3 million range. At $4 million and above, it is a fairly soft market. Buyers are being extremely aggressive in their thinking about price. If a property is on the market for $4 million, buyers want to pay $3.5 million to build in some downside protection."

San Francisco Bay Area Values

In San Francisco and Silicon Valley, the luxury market is strong due to technology-driven wealth creation, lower interest rates and lower home prices. The market also benefitted from higher rents, which further enhances the attractiveness of residential real estate as an investment.

"The higher end market has been pretty strong," said Hugh Cornish of Coldwell Banker in Menlo Park. "There has been less inventory in the higher end and more from $2.5 million to $5 million. Palo Alto has been the strongest market, followed by Menlo Park and Atherton. We are seeing multiple offers, but not for every property."

In San Francisco, the higher end of the luxury market was active. "Above $5 million, the market is healthy," said Mary Lou Castellanos of Sotheby's International Realty. "Smart money is buying now and is taking advantage of lower prices and lower interest rates. At the same time, a growing number of sellers are getting more realistic about price."

In the Wine Country, a number of high-dollar sales have taken place over the past few months. "We're seeing a real surge in the upper end of the market," said Jim Perry of Pacific Union in St. Helena. "People have been waiting on the sidelines. With interest rates so low and prices down, that's hard to pass up."

About The First Republic Prestige Home Index

The First Republic Prestige Home Index(TM) is the first statistical model of its kind customized to measure changes in homes valued at more than $1 million in key California urban markets. Some common features of luxury homes in the Index: 3,000 to 6,000 square feet, three to six bedrooms, and three to six bathrooms. San Francisco Bay Area properties include a cross-section of luxury homes in Alamo, Atherton, Belvedere, Danville, Healdsburg, Hillsborough, Lafayette, Los Altos, Los Gatos, Mill Valley, Moraga, Orinda, Palo Alto, Piedmont, Portola Valley, Ross, St. Helena, San Francisco, Saratoga, Sonoma, Tiburon and Woodside. Properties in Los Angeles represent a cross-section of luxury homes in Arcadia, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, La Canada Flintridge, Encino, Los Angeles, Malibu, Marina del Rey, North Hollywood, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Playa del Rey, Santa Monica, Studio City and the West Los Angeles enclaves of Bel Air, Brentwood and Westwood. San Diego properties represent a cross-section of luxury homes in Carlsbad, Coronado, Del Mar, Encinitas, La Jolla, La Mesa, Poway, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and Solana Beach. In producing the Index, Fiserv CSW Inc. draws upon its economic database and years of experience in tracking single-family home values; collects and cross-checks data from multiple sources; achieves a weighted balance of validation elements such as repeat sales, comparable sales, and physical home characteristics; and combines this with First Republic's extensive local market knowledge.

About First Republic Bank

First Republic Bank /quotes/zigman/2803861/quotes/nls/frc FRC +0.07% and its subsidiaries provide private banking, private business banking and private wealth management. Founded in 1985, First Republic specializes in exceptional, relationship-based service offered through preferred banking or wealth management offices primarily in San Francisco, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Newport Beach, San Diego, Portland, Boston, Greenwich and New York City. First Republic offers a complete line of banking products for individuals and businesses, including deposit services, as well as residential, commercial and personal loans. First Republic is a component of the S&P Total Market Index, the Wilshire 5000 Total Market Index(SM), the Russell 1000(R), Russell 3000(R) and Russell Global indices and six Dow Jones indices.

About First Republic Private Wealth Management

First Republic Private Wealth Management is the investment management, trust and brokerage group of First Republic Bank. First Republic Private Wealth Management offers objective advice and fully customized solutions with the same level of exceptional client service that has been the hallmark of First Republic Bank for more than 25 years. First Republic has the flexibility to provide individuals, families, businesses, endowments, schools and non-profit organizations with appropriate choices that responsibly meet a client's specific investment objectives. Securities Products and Services are offered by First Republic Securities Company, LLC - Member FINRA/SIPC. First Republic Securities Company and First Republic Investment Management are wholly owned subsidiaries of First Republic Bank. Unless otherwise disclosed, investments through First Republic Investment Management and First Republic Securities Company, LLC are not FDIC-insured, not bank guaranteed and may lose value.

SOURCE: First Republic Bank

Full article can be found here:

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/luxury-home-values-rise-in-third-quarter-of-2011-2011-11-28

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LA JOLLA WHALE WATCHING IS HERE!

December 28, 2011

Although the holidays are coming to an end, that doesn't mean the exciting events are! Here is an exciting outing near your La Jolla Home!

Whale watching season began on Monday down at the Harbor. Birch Aquarium at Scripps is sponsoring daily rides out to the ocean to catch some spectacular view of the majestic gray whale.

Those who want to capture the awe of this giant, underwater mammal can choose from twice-daily tours that run through the spring. Scripps naturalists are taking people out on cruises for whale watching adventures on vessels from Flagship Cruises and Events out to the Baja breeding grounds of gray whales.

Guests aboard the ships will get an up-close look at the animals and learn about their habits and migration. Gray whales are baleen whales, which means instead of teeth, their jaw has bristle-like material that catches microscopic plankton. Though their diet consists of some of the tiniest creatures, gray whales can weigh more than 35 tons be more than 50 feet in length, making them the longest mammal in the world.

According to the Birch Aquarium website, about 20,000 gray whales pass through San Diego on their annual 10,000-mile round-trip journey from the Bering Sea to the lagoons of Baja California. You'll be able to see some of them on their journey at these special whale watchings.

Make sure you bring warm clothing and binoculars to your cruise. The adventures ship out twice daily, one from 9:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. and another from 1:30 to 5 p.m., departing from the San Diego Bay at 1050 N. Harbor Dr. Tickets cost $35 weekdays and $40 weekends, but members of the aquarium pay just $30. Kids 4-12 cost $17.50 during the week and $20 on the weekends.  Seniors and military with ID cost $30 on the weekdays and $35 on the weekends.

Reserve yourself a spot by calling 619-234-4111 or visiting the cruise line that conducts the whale watching at their website.

Information courtesy of www.LaJollaPatch.com 

 

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2011 SAN DIEGO COUNTY SCHOOL RANKINGS IN!

January 24, 2012

The 2011 San Diego County ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE INDEX (API) is in! If you are looking for a new school for your child or you want to see how the one they currently attend did, look no further! See the TOP Scores & Ranking for 2010-2011 (Released September 2011, California Department of Education).
 
These are the scores and rankings of all public schools in San Diego County. The API scores represent how well the students are learning basic skills. The table shows the following: DISTRICT, TYPE (i.e. elementary) SCHOOL IN DISTRICT & API - ranges anywhere from 200 to 1000 points on the basis of how well the students score on
standardized tests. The statewide performance for all schools is 800. The 2010 Base API - shows the scores that were reported in March 2010, based on 2010 test results, sets targets for growth in the API from 2010 to 2011. The 2011 Growth API - shows the scores that were reported in August 2011, based on 2011 test results, and shows growth in the API from 2010 to 2011. The Growth - summarizes a school's performance, the change from year to year.

Click here for the San Diego County School results for 2011

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ENJOY SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH!

February 22, 2012

We are approaching the last weekend of Museum Month in San Diego! This is a cheap and fun way to get out there with friends and family and also educate yourself. Presented by Macy's, this popular event allows participants to enjoy half-off entry fees at 40 San Diego Museum Council member museums. One of the many Museums participating is La Jolla Historical Society, steps from your La Jolla Home.

Museum Month Passes may be picked up  at anySan Diego Macy's. The passes are free while supplies last. With a pass, up to four visitors  can gain admission to any of the 40 participating museums for half-price! What a deal. This is the last weekend so get out there and enjoy! 

For more information visit the website.

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SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY CHARITY EVENTS

November 14, 2011

Tis the season to give back! As the holidays approach us we often look for ways to give back to our community. There are many people in San Diego that need help this year. Whether it's to reduce clutter by bestowing unused food and clothing at local drives, get in shape and soften the heart with community fundraising walks or runs, or offer a helping hand by crossing off that special toy on homeless children's holiiday wish lists, the San Diego Community knows how to come together to offer holiday relief for those in need. 

Here is a helpful list put together by DiscoverSD.com. Find one that is right for you!

Event: The Melting Pot's Annual Thanks and Giving Campaign

Charity: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital- Oct. 29th-Dec. 31st

This holiday season, The Melting Pot in the Gaslamp is inviting guests to dip into more than just their favorite fondues, entrees, salads, or delicious chocolate desserts. From Oct. 29th-Dec. 31st, guests are given the opportunity to donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. As the only pediatric cancer research center where all diagnosed children are given treatment even if their family is unable to pay, each dollar will contribute to funding childhood cancer research. The Melting Pot Restaurants, Inc. having donated more than $6 million for St. Jude since 2003. For those who want to make a donation but can't make it out to The Melting Pot this season, please visit meltingpot.com. For more information about St. Jude, please visit stjude.org.

 

Event: Blue Point Coastal Cuisine's Menus with Meaning: A Chef Charity Dinner Series

Charities: Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County- November; Feeding America San Diego - December

Philanthropy has been made convenient and easy with Blue Point Coastal's Menus with Meaning: Chef Charity Dinner Series. For the month of November, indulge in the Taste of the South four-course dinner and have 20 percent of the check go directly toward helping children realize their potential and build brighter futures through the Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County charity. Choose from Steamed Oysters or Braised Port and Macaroni & Cheese Croquettes for the first course and Yaki Mein or Tanimura Farms Mixed Green Salad for the second course. Then, for the entrée, select a Lobster and Shrimp Jambalaya, Oysterster and Snapper Etouffee, or Sausage and Chicken Creole. And stuff in a delectable dessert by picking either a Chocolate Lava Cake or Bananas Foster. It's an easy way to fill up your belly and your heart for $55 per person. Call 619.233.6623 for reservations.

Please visit the website at cohnrestaurants.com to view the December Menu with Meaning, and donate to helping fight hunger through Feeding America San Diego.  Whether you're looking to help promote positive futures for children in November or fight hunger in December, Blue Point Coastal Cuisine will help you wine, dine, and donate to these trusted charities.

 

Event: Father Joe's Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk

Charities: Father Joe's Villages - Nov. 5th

Before you cram in the pounds at your Thanksgiving Day feast, start your day with Father Joe's Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk to help serve more than 1.7 meals to those in need. Father Joe has been serving meals for more than 10 years to local families with the money raised from this 5K. Join thousands of contributors at 8am on Thursday, Nov. 5th in Balboa Park. Ages 6 through 12 can register before Nov. 7th for $18 for the timed race or $15 for the untimed. For ages 13 and older, the timed race costs $33 and the untimed costs $30 before Nov. 7. After Nov. 7, prices increase by $5. Participants will receive free refreshments at Spreckles Organ Pavilion where the Bill Magee Blues Band will be playing. They will also receive a long-sleeved commemorative T-shirt and a medal if they are within the top three finishers in their age category. Want to bring a leashed furry friend? Free bandanas are given to all participating pets, while supplies last. It's fun for the whole family and a great way to help feed San Diego's hungry. If not interested in participating in the walk, feel free to make a contribution at active.com. For more information visit thanksgivingrun.org.

 

Event: Pure Fitness United Run For the Hungry 5K & 10K Run/Walk

Charity: Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and the Jewish Family Service Foodmobile - Thanksgiving Day

Whether looking to start an hour earlier than Father Joe's Run/Walk, to run a farther distance, or just want to experience Downtown rather than Balboa Park, Pure Fitness United Run for the Hungry 5K & 10K Run/Walk is another option to help feed San Diego's less fortunate. Starting at 7:10am for the 10K and 8:15am for the 5K on Thursday, Nov. 24th in Downtown at Thirteenth Street and Imperial Avenue, this race runs through the Gaslamp District and East Villiage and is the only downtown race in San Diego. Earnings benefit the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, which supplies more than 10 million meals annually, and the Jewish Family Service Foodmobile, which distributes more than 28,000 meals to the elderly and homeless. Please visit unitedrunforthehungry.org to register, donate, or be a sponsor.

 

Event: Chargers' Food Drive at Qualcomm Stadium (Chargers vs. Green Bay)

Charity: San Diego Food Bank - Nov. 6th

Chargers' fans can ban together this Sunday, Nov. 6th to help fight hunger by participating in the Food Drive at Qualcomm Stadium. Bring nonperishable food items and drop them in the San Diego Food Bank's red donation barrels, located at all stadium entrances before 10:30am. And if looking to receive a signed Philip Rivers football, this is your chance to get competitive, as the top donator wins this prize. So whether you have canned meats, soups, or vegetables or peanut butter, pasta, or packaged nuts and seeds that have been just begging to be cleared out of your cabinets, this is your chance to help feed San Diego's hungry. For more information, visit sandiegofoodbank.org.

Event: San Diego Food Bank - Holiday Food Drive

Charity: San Diego Food Bank - Nov. 1st-Dec. 31st

It may not yet be time for spring cleaning, but autumn is another season to clean out those closets and pantries with the help of the San Diego Food Bank's Holiday Food Drive. If you can't make it out to the Chargers' game this Sunday, a convenient option is to drop off nonperishable items at any San Diego County Vons and Stater Bros. supermarket locations from Nov. 1st - Dec. 31st. The food will be distributed through San Diego Food Bank's 350 partner charities, ranging from soup kitchens and shelters to rehabilitation programs and senor centers. Grab those extra boxes of dry cereal, Mac & Cheese, or personal hygiene items, and keep an eye out for the red donation barrels. Or, for those who want to donate larger amounts, they can be delivered to the San Diego Food Bank warehouse at 9850 Distribution Avenue, San Diego 92121. For instructions on how to start at school food drive or to see a list of all participating locations, please visit sandiegofoodbank.org. For more information, call 866.350.3663.

 

Events: CCSA Family Christmas, Christmas for the Homeless, and Christmas Meal Basket

Charity: Community Christian Service Agency (CCSA) - December

The Community Christian Service Agency is sponsoring three programs for Christmas that help San Diego's less fortunate families, including low-income seniors and needy children. Sponsors of the CCSA Family Christmas program "adopt" a small or large family to create an individualized festive basket that includes items such as nonperishable food, grocery gift cards, and other gifts. Baskets can be taken to St. Mark's United Methodist Church on Clairemont Drive on Dec. 16th. Contact the Clairemont Service Center at 858.274.2271. For more information, visit ccsasandiego.org.

Projected to help about 200 homeless man and women this year, the Christmas for the Homeless program will be giving gift bags and food packages. Each bag will include Christmas cards and stamped envelopes, globes, a winter cap, Christmas candy, and a hygiene kit. The food package contains cans of fruit, tuna, sausage, packages of crackers, and more. Whether you want to create your own basket, or you want to donate some of the items to be included in the baskets given Christmas through New Year's Day, visit ccsasandiego.org for more information.

From Dec. 14th-Dec. 22nd, food baskets can be delivered to CCSA to help provide a holiday dinner for a family in need through the Christmas Meal Basket program. Please visit ccsasandiego.org for more information and the list of items that should be included in each basket.

 

Event: Father Joe's Village Toy Drive

Charity: Father Joe's Village- Gifts for children at St. Vincent de Paul Village - Nov. 26th- Jan. 8th.

St. Vincent de Paul Village is known for its compassion, respect, empathy, empowerment, and dignity in helping break the cycle of homelessness and poverty, and it is giving bighearted San Diegan's a chance to act like elves by helping give gifts to local homeless children this holiday season. Father Joe's Village Toy Drive runs from Nov. 26th-Jan. 8th. For a list of $50, $25 or $10 gift ideas for newborns to teenagers, drop-off locations, or more information, visit fatherjoesvillages.org.

 

Event: Hard Rock Hotel's 4th Annual Jingle Bell Bachelor Bash

Charity: Junior League of San Diego - Dec. 1st

If looking to catch the man of your dreams under the mistletoe, the Hard Rock Hotel is the place to go. Twelve of San Diego's most eligible bachelors will strut their stuff in support of The Junior League of San Diego at this charity event. The JLSD is a not-for-profit organization that helps improve conditions in almost every area of the community from children's health and nutrition to multicultural. VIP hour, where women can get that special one-on-one time with the bachelors, is from 6:30pm-7:30pm, and general admission is at 7:30pm on Thursday, Dec. 1st. VIP tickets are $50 and general admission is $15. And please remember to bring cash, as these bachelors will be auctioned off along with a dinner for six at a local firehouse and other raffle items. For more information about please visit jlsd.org to purchase tickets.

 

More Charity Events:

Walks/Runs

San Diego Center for Children Walk for Kids: Nov. 5th

Walk to Cure Diabetes: Nov. 12th

Save a Life Community Walk, San Diego 5K: Nov. 13th

Toy Drive

Alexander Salazar Fine Art Holiday Party and Toy Drive: Dec. 15th

Food Drives

The Ultimate Food Fight: Whole Foods Market Chefs Fight to "Stuff This!" In Support of SuperFood Drive: Nov. 7th

Holiday Food Drive at Aroma Café & BarFly La Jolla: Nov. 17th

Clothing or Shoe Drives

San Diego Hall of Fame Players Holiday Shoe Drive to Save Lives: Nov. 12th

 

Other

AJ's Kids Crane for Rady Children's Hospital: Starting Nov. 4th

Ocean Gala: Nov. 5th

Bicycle Swap Meet: Nov. 6th

HDSA Celebration of Hope Gala: Nov. 9th

Caridad's Veterans Day Bash Benefitting Isaiah Foundation at FLUXX: Nov. 11th

The 82^nd Annual Scripps Memorial Hospital Candlelight Ball: Dec. 3rd

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SAN DIEGO RENT ON THE RISE

March 31, 2011

If you are on the fence between renting and buying in San Diego, this article in the Union Tribune might provide some very helpful information. Rent costs are on the rise and housing prices are droping. Click on the link below ...

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/mar/31/san-diego-county-rents-rise/

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SALES IN LA JOLLA SO FAR THIS YEAR

March 30, 2011

Take a look at how the La Jolla Real Estate Market is doing so far this year...we are off to a good start!

Jan - Feb 2011

Total Sales for January  - 39

Total Sales for February - 45

SFH January Sales -  18

SFH February Sales - 19

Condo January Sales    -    20

Condo February Sales   -   19

Foreclosures January    -   9

Foreclosures February   -   3

Total Sales for the year -  84

Total Sales over 1.5 Mil  - 11

Total Sales over 2 Mil -      6

Total Sales over 3 Mil  -     2

Total Sales over 5 Mil   -    0

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LA JOLLA MOTOR CLASSIC ON APRIL 3RD!

March 31, 2011

Experience this spectacular event at the breathtaking La Jolla Cove featuring a remarkable array of over 150 cars and a tribute to the art of restoration. Historic La Jolla has long been the destination for the finer things in life. La Jolla Historical Society will pay tribute to some of the world's finest automobiles on Sunday, April 3, 2011 from 9:00 am to 3:00 PM at the 7^th Annual La Jolla Motor Car Classic. Click here for more information. This is a great way to spend the Sunday with the family!

Tickets

• $35 in advance
• $40 at event
• Children 13 and under free
• VIP Tickets are $100 and include one entry plus access to the exclusive VIP Area with complimentary food & beverages - plus one commemorative program.

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SURVEY RANKS UCSD AND SCRIPPS AMONG BEST HOSPITALS IN U.S.

April 07, 2011

UCSD Medical Center and Scripps Memorial Hospital were ranked among the top hospitals in San Diego and the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report's annual survey out Tuesday....

Ckick here to read more of this La Jolla Light Article

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SEVEN WAYS TO HOLD TITLE...

April 27, 2011

7 Ways to Hold Title

Here are different types of real property ownership in California mainly divided into sole ownership and co-ownership. There are several variations as to how title is held in each type of ownership. Following are the seven most common examples of sole and co-ownerships:

Sole-Ownership

1. Single woman or man who are not legally married.

2. An Unmarried woman or man: A woman or man that have been married and is currently divorced.

3. A married woman or man as her or his sole and separate property: when a married woman or man interested in gaining ownership of a property, in their name alone, they must receive their spouse's consent by Quit Claim Deed or otherwise to transfer, thereby relinquishing all rights, title and interest in the property.

Co-Ownership

4. Joint Tenancy: Is one owned by two or more persons in equal shares, by a title created by a single will or transfer, when expressly declared in the will or transfer to be a joint tenancy. A chief characteristic of joint tenancy property is the right of survivorship. When a joint tenant passes away, title to the property immediately vests in the survivor or surviving joint tenants. As a consequence, joint tenancy property isn't subject to disposition by will.

5. Tenancy in Common: Under tenancy in common, co-owners own undivided interests. Unlike joint tenancy in this type of co-ownership the interests need not be equal in quantity or duration. There is no right of survivorship; each tenant owns an interest that upon his/her death is vested to the legal heirs or devisees.

6. Community Property: is one acquired by husband and wife or either during marriage. Real property conveyed to a married man or woman is presumed to be community property, unless otherwise stated. Under community property, both spouses have the right by will, to dispose of one half of the community property, but all of it will go to the surviving spouse without a will. If spouse exercises his or her right to dispose of one-half, that half is subject to administration in the estate.

7. Community Property with Right of Survivorship: (Effective July 1st, 2001). Community property acquired by husband and wife, when expressly declared in the transfer document to be "community property with right of survivorship," shall pass to the surviving spouse without having to first pass through the administration of the estate.

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SECRET GARDEN TOUR OF OLD LA JOLLA!

May 10, 2011

Residents can stroll through some of the most exclusive gardens in town when the Historical Society presents its annual fundraiser "The Secret Garden Tour of Old La Jolla" on Saturday, May 14. This is the 13^th year for the highly anticipated event. The garden locations remain a secret until the day of the tour, but according to organizers, this year's guests will be able to wander through the extensive gardens of one of the most exclusive estates in La Jolla to study botanical grounds created with extravagant outdoor living and entertaining in mind.

If you go

What: "Secret Garden Tour of Old La Jolla"

When: Rain or shine, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 14

Where: Depart from Wisteria Cottage, 780 Prospect

Advance tickets: Platinum tour $140. Self-guided tour $40 members, $50 non-members at lajollahistory.org or (858) 459-5335

For more information on this local event visit www.lajollalight.com

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PADRES SEASON IS UPON US!

May 25, 2011

Summer is right around the corner and you know what that means...Padres Season! Padres games are a great way to spend time with family and friends. Click the link below to see the full Padres schedule.

Padres Schedule 2011

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MOUNT SOLEDAD VETRANS MEMORIAL 2011...HONORING OUR VETRANS!

May 26, 2011

This great event is happening this memorial day from 2-3:15pm at the Mt. Soledad Vetrans Memorial. This is a great way to remember what this 3 day weekend is really about! Click on the link below for more details:

2011 Mt. Soledad Memorial Event

 

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FIESTA DEL SOL THIS WEEKEND IN SOLANA BEACH!

June 02, 2011

Presented by the Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce, Fiesta del Sol attracts more than 50,000 festival-goers to the seaside city of Solana Beach, California. This year's festival dates are Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5. The 32nd annual event takes place adjacent to Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach. The free two-day fiesta opens each morning at 9am with the arts & crafts fair and closes each evening at 9pm after the conclusion of the last musical performance. Click here for the event website.

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LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO NEAR YOUR LA JOLLA HOME THIS WEEKEND?

June 24, 2011

If you are looking for something to do new your La Jolla Home this Saturday you might head on down to Monarch Gallery on Prospect Street. For one night only, Monarch Gallery hosts international master painter Fabian Perez. A rare opportuity to meet the artist in person. On exhibit will be a spectacular collection of new original paintings and new hand enhanced signed and numbered limited edition giclees on canvas. Saturday - June 25th 6-10 pm.The spanish flamenco group Calé will be performing live. for more information visit their website.

 On Sunday you can stop by 3120 Bremerton Place to check out this ideally located house in La Jolla Heights. It will be held open from 1-4pm this Sunday the 27th.

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DEL MAR RACES ARE BACK!

July 14, 2011

 If you are looking for something to do near your Del Mar home, the races are back! Starting July 20th the Season begins! For the full schedule Click here.

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ART ON THURSDAY NEAR YOUR BIRD ROCK HOME!

August 01, 2011

 Bird Rock has always been known for its unique streetside shops and its creative atmosphere. Moonglow Design has artists and sculptors working on projects from noon to 6 p.m. weekly on its deck at 5763 La Jolla Blvd. in Bird Rock. Artist receptions with wine and music are planned from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 4. This is a great local event that you can attend near your Bird Rock Home. For more details, call them(858) 454-4258.

 

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AWARD WINNING HISTORIAN TONIGHT AT WARWICKS

August 16, 2011

Looking for something to do near your La Jolla Home tonight? Come down to Warwicks in The Village. Pulitzer Prize-winning Historian Edward Larson will discuss and sign "An Empire of Ice," a fascinating new take on Antarctic exploration. Retold with added information, it's the first book to place the famed voyages of Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, his British rivals Robert Scott and Ernest Shackleton, and others in a larger scientific, social, and geopolitical context. This is an educational and fun way to spend your Tuesday night...See you there!

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NEW RESTAURANT IN LA JOLLA!

August 23, 2011

After several days of private pre-opening events, Eddie V's Prime Seafood, will open to the public at 4 p.m. Monday at 1270 Prospect St.

The restaurant, located at the site of the former Chart House, has two decks overlooking the La Jolla Cove - with views into the sea caves. Right in the heart of The Village, this restaurant is steps from your La Jolla Home!  The menu features such dishes as New Zealand Barramundi Meuniere-style, Maryland-style All Lump Crab Cake, Loch Duarte Salmon lightly smoked, Pacific Halibut steamed "Hong Kong" style and Lemon Sole in Parmesan Crust, along with other favorites such as Maine Lobster Tacos, North Atlantic scallops and premium Black Angus steaks. The setting is relaxed, refined and filled with the rhythms of nightly live music from the V Lounge. Sounds like a blast!

President and CEO of Eddie V's Jim Van Dercook, who working in restaurants at La Jolla's Alfonso's, said in a press release that "La Jolla has been a dream of the Eddie V's restaurant group for many years. Until now, we could not find a suitable location that coincided with the ambience of our Eddie V's concept. This location embodies the very essence of what we have been searching for with its extraordinary views and natural beauty."

I definitely plan on checking this place out! For more information visit the La Jolla Light webiste.

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ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY IN LA JOLLA!

September 07, 2011

With the high temperature of 82 degrees in La Jolla today...who wouldn't want to live here!? Below are a few numbers for La Jolla's first half of 2011...

La Jolla Real Estate Sales

Jan - July 2011

 

Total Sales for July - 54

SFH Sales for July  -  26

Condo Sales for July - 24

 

Foreclosures for July - 3

Total Sales for the year  -  373

Total Sales over 1.5 Mil  -  73

Total Sales over 2 Mil     -  40

Total Sales over 3 Mil     -  17

Total Sales over 5 Mil      -  1

 

Median SFH Price 2009  -  $1,495,000

Median SFH Price 2010  -  $1,324,000

Median SFH Price 2011  -  $1,330,000

Information provided by Fidelity National Title

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ART WALK NEAR YOUR DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO HOME!

September 09, 2011

The much-loved ArtWalk on the Bay returns to beautiful San Diego Bay! Art lovers can peruse and purchase thousands of paintings, photographs and more while they enjoy live music and food at the "ArtWalk on the Bay Café". ArtWalk offers fun for all ages with KidsWalk hands-on interactive art activities. All this on the beautiful Hilton San Diego Bayfront Park, near your San Diego Home! For more information click here.

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"MILK LIKE SUGAR" PLAYING NEAR YOUR LA JOLLA HOME!

September 15, 2011

Milk Like Sugar is playing at the La Jolla Playhouse until September 25th. Winner of the prestigious Edgerton Foundation's New American Plays Award, Milk Like Sugar is a coming-of-age story for our times. I plan on going to tonight's show and am definitely looking forward to it!

This is one of the things I love about living in La Jolla..everything you could possible want is right at your fingertips....plays, beaches, restaurants, galleries, museums, schools...EVERYTHING!

 

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WEEK 2 OF SD RESTAURANT WEEK IS HERE!

September 23, 2011

The second week of San Diego restaurant week is almost here. From September 25th-30th you can enjoy extraordinary three-course menus from San Diego's best restaurants. Now in its fifth year as San Diego County's largest and most successful dining event, San Diego Restaurant Week was launched with the intention of spotlighting the city as a premiere dining destination. Over 200 establishments participate in San Diego Restaurant week, from the well-established (Mille Fleurs, Le Fontainbleau) to the up-and-coming (Dussini, Soleil @ K) to everything in-between. new with this years restaurant week are the lunch deals.  Im excited to try something new!

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CLEANING UP COAST BLVD. IS UNDER WAY!

September 30, 2011

According to the La Jolla Light, Coast Blvd is on it's way to a makeover! Steps from your La Jolla Home, this famous walkway is a tourist destination for many.

Phyllis Minick had an epiphany one Sunday this summer strolling along Coast Boulevard by La Jolla's Children's Pool: It was up to her to lead the charge to fix the disheveled walkway.

On Saturday, she wants your help at a workshop on beautifying the area that will be held from begin at 8 a.m. with a walk around the area near the lifeguard station and the walkway to the gazebo.

"There were so many people walking with strollers and small children running around that many were forced to walk in the street with cars leaving and trying to park and they couldn't see people moving out from the cars," she said in a recent interview. "And I'm looking at all the tables and signs and how distracted people are and how noisy it is and I thought, ‘This is really pathetic.'

Now, three months after her full-court press lobbying and visiting every community group and subgroup in town, she's organized a gathering that will start with a self-guided tour of the area between the lifeguard station and the gazebo from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. After the tour, participants will gather in the Friendship Room at 939 Coast Blvd. to brainstorm ideas on making the walkway more aesthetic and user-friendly.

Landscape architect Jim Neri, who worked with the city and La Jolla community planners on master planning for the first phase of Coast Boulevard improvements back in 1989, will lead the session.

He said refurbishing the boulevard is part of a "grand vision" for redeveloping La Jolla's coastline by adding posts, chains, railings, stairs, turnouts and pathways as well as other improvements.

"This piece around the lifeguard station, Children's Pool and Casa Cove area, is just another phase of implementing that preliminary plan," he said.

Since Children's Pool Lifeguard Tower is being replaced, beautification proponents argue now is the appropriate time to make aesthetic changes on the adjacent walkway so they tie in with what's already along Coast Boulevard. Those improvements include decorative, 5-foot-high columns inlaid with seashells, colorful stones and sparkles lining the sidewalks between the lifeguard station and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The column design is carried over into sidewalks and benches.

Patrick Ahern, president of La Jolla Parks and Beaches Inc., the parent group for the Children's Pool Committee chaired by Minick, noted the public workshop process has been a proven success.

"People are provided with a questionnaire and told to put down what they see, like and dislike," he said. "Then they go back and put ideas on a large sheet of paper with colored markers."

Ahern said it's surprising how quickly individuals conferring together leads to collaboration in a group.

"Everyone starts out with their own point of view, people begin to compare ideas, then, suddenly during the workshop, a collective idea of the best design just emerges," he said.

Longtime community planner Joe LaCava will talk about efforts to speed up demolishing the abandoned Children's Pool Lifeguard Station and replacing it with a new structure.

"The city is ready to advertise a design/build contract for the project but first needs to better understand the construction schedule," LaCava said in an e-mail. "The demolition and the new construction is hampered by restrictions during the seal pupping season as well as the summer moratorium."

He added that city officials are talking with state and federal agencies on addressing the seal situation and wants to know if La Jollans wouldd consider waiving the Summer Moratorium.

Coast Boulevard in front of Children's Pool is not only unsightly now - it's dangerous - Minick contended, pointing out there is as little as 36 inches of open sidewalk space where the free-speech tables on the walkway extend into the public right-of-way.

In endeavoring to rehabilitate Coast Boulevard, Minick said her motive is pure, her method is professional and her aim is practical, not political.

"There really is no hidden agenda," she said. "The goal is to make it better. At the very least, make it look better. At the very most, make it safer and cleaner."

Here's some background on the Children's Pool lifeguard tower project.

The city is proposing to demolish the abandoned Children's Pool Lifeguard Station and replace it with a new lifeguard station. The preliminary design has been reviewed and approved by both the La Jolla Parks and Beaches Committee and the La Jolla Community Planning Association.

The City is ready to advertise a design/build contract for the project but first needs to better understand the construction schedule. The schedule is affected by restrictions during the seal pupping season as well as La Jolla's summer construction moratorium.

* What is the Summer Moratorium?

It prohibits public works construction between Memorial Day and Labor Day in the coastal areas. San Diego and the beach communities rely on the tourist season so we want to make our coastal areas as attractive and inviting as possible.

* Has La Jolla waived the moratorium before?

Yes, the community has previously supported waiving the summer moratorium. Most recently, Village merchants waived the moratorium for July 2010 so that the city could complete the sewer and water replacement project. In 2007, Bird Rock merchants waived the moratorium for the entire summer to allow the timely completion of the sewer replacement and roundabout construction.

* Would the construction be scheduled for Summer 2012, Summer 2013, or both?

At this time the question is whether to waive the moratorium for both summers.  However, if the city can find a workable solution with the state and federal agencies regarding work during the seal pupping season, then only work would during the summer of 2012 would be necessary.

* How much time would be saved by waiving the moratorium?

One year.

* Will access to the Children's Pool be affected?

The temporary construction fencing would be around the existing plaza, allowing access to Children's Pool will be available during construction without interruption. Access to South Casa Beach may be affected during portions of the construction.

* How will the lifeguards operate during the construction?

The existing temporary station would be removed and temporary accommodations would be made to ensure that the lifeguards are fully able to do their job.

* Would any of the existing on-street parking be lost during construction?

Only the area where lifeguard staff currently park.

* Who does the city want to hear from on this question?

The city wants to hear from all stakeholders including the merchants (through the La Jolla Village Merchants Association), the residents - especially those living along Coast Boulevard, users of the coastline (through the La Jolla Parks & Beaches Committee), and from the community at large (through the La Jolla Community Planning Association and the La Jolla Town Council).

La Jolla Light Article

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SD PROPERTY TAXES INFORMATION & APPEALS

October 26, 2011

Fall is in the air and that means the first installment of your property taxes is due November 1st. Property tax rates are set at 1% of the assessed vaule plus any voter approved assesments. If you disagree with the value established by the Assessor, you can appeal that value to the Assessment Appeals Board. Here is a link to the County of San Diego's website with all the information and forms needed to appeal your taxes. November 30th is the deadline to appeal your property taxes. Call me if you need help with comparable sales and filing the right forms. 858.361.8714

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HALLOWEEN SAFTEY TIPS

October 28, 2011

Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have a safe holiday, here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

ALL DRESSED UP:

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.
• When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
• If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if he stumbles or trips.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
• Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and a prescription from an eye care professional. While the packaging on decorative lenses will often make claims such as "one size fits all," or "no need to see an eye specialist," obtaining decorative contact lenses without a prescription is both dangerous and illegal. This can cause pain, inflammation, and serious eye disorders and infections, which may lead to permanent vision loss.
• Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.

CARVING A NICHE:

• Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers.  Then parents can do the cutting.
• Consider using a flashlight or glow stick instead of a candle to light your pumpkin. If you do use a candle, a votive candle is safest.
• Candlelit pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects, and should never be left unattended.

HOME SAFE HOME:

• To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
• Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.

ON THE TRICK-OR-TREAT TRAIL:

• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
• Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind Trick-or Treaters:
• Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
• Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
• Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.
• Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
• Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

HEALTHY HALLOWEEN:

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
• Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.
• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
• Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween.

© 10/10 American Academy of Pediatrics

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