What an extraordinary day it was yesterday in Phoenix, Arizona! While here in town attending a blogging conference, my friend Lynda Eisenmann (best friend, CRS, REALTOR® and Broker/Owner of Preferred Home Brokers in Brea, CA) and I were treated to a grand tour of the city by fellow CRS® and Metro Phoenix REALTOR® Mario Trejo Romero. We were treated to a tour of Mario’s present office located in a beautiful, historic, brick Victorian home. Mario recently sold this property and will be moving to his new office to a historic, mid-century building right next to the historic neighborhood of Encanto. Mario’s specialty is historic real estate.
Historic Rousson House in downtown Phoenix
(Photo courtesy of cities.com a great resoure for travel information)
After touring the “new” office Mario chauffeured us around the Encanto neighborhood and then into the heart of the city. Mario certainly knew his market. He is certainly the REALTOR’S® REALTOR®. Lynda and I were full of questions and Mario was ready with great information that not only answered our questions, it also gave us even more information than we would have known enough to ask. As we toured the ity, Lynda and I were both impressed with the diverse architecture and contrast between the well-preserved old and the cutting edge new building designs.
The incredible photo above from www.megascenery.com shows the mega city of Phoenix that now covers over 60 miles juxtaposed against original historic neighborhoods and room to grow. Phoenix is one of the five fastest growning cities in America.
Later that evening we enjoyed an exceptional dinner at Phoenix City Grille (one of Mario’s favorite restaurants in the Phoenix). Try the roast pork and don’t miss the cornbread! After dinner, we were off to see the new “lake” in on the Phoenix/Tempe border. WOW! With some baffles, locks, a new bridge, and the foresight of the former Mayor of Tempe, the old muddy river area has been transformed into a prime real estate area. High rise condos and marinas now dot the lakefront. A must see when in Phoenix.
One of the best things about being a REALTOR® is traveling to great cities for seminars that teach us more about how to serve our clients better. And, to the extra benefit of meeting with new and old friends across the country and sharing their cities through their eyes.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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One of the questions I'm often asked as a REALTOR® is, "What is a half bathroom?" Recently, the Southern California Multiple Listing Service incorporated a new set of input fields to their system. And with this change, I'm sure I'll be hearing the question more often. Here's the definition direct from SoCal MLS:
"In most parts of the country, a full bathroom includes a toilet, a sink, a bathtub and a shower. A combination bath and shower counts as two fixtures. If the bathroom has only three fixtures it is a 3/4 bath. If it has only two fixtures it is a 1/2 bath, and if it has only one (bath, shower or toilet) it is a 1/4 bath."
As you search for a home in Orange County, California you may wonder how many bathrooms a home actually has. The MLS printout will show total number of bathrooms and how many bathrooms of each type are in the home. I offer this information to assist you in your search. If you have questions about bathrooms or other important features, I'm here to help!
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Today, on the way to the Open House I was holding in Rancho Santa Margarita, I stopped to pick up a case of bottled water. People cruising through lots of houses can work up a thirst and always seem to appreciate getting a nice cold bottle of water.
While at the grocery store, I first picked up a case of the store brand water that was on sale. Then, I saw the new-shaped Arrowhead water bottles I'd seen advertised on TV. I put the store brand back on the shelf and opted for the Arrowhead water because I think it's worth an extra 50 cents per case to be more eco-friendly.
The hourglass shape of the bottle makes it easier to hold. But, more importantly, it's the lightest weigh ½ liter bottle ever produced (according to a national survey). More information is available at www.arrowheadwater.com/ecoshape. This isn't a big thing, but it's a lot of small things that can make a difference in the carbon footprint we leave on planet earth.
I was willing to pay a few pennies more for a product that is kinder to the environment. This seems to be a trend in the area of home purchases too here in Orange County. There are many folks making conscious efforts to be more eco-friendly. Many home buyers that I meet are beginning to move energy use and energy efficiency of the home up on their scale of priorities in searching for homes. I can't say that I've had buyers willing to pay more for it, but it certainly is a tipping point in choosing between two similar homes - one energy efficient vs. one without energy saving improvements.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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This morning I heard a statistic that over 47 million Americans are without health insurance. It was a wake-up call for me. Oh, I know that this is an issue that we've heard politicians talking about for many years, but for some reason today it struck a chord.
It has been my family's good fortune to have a group health plan for many years through my husband's work at the County of Orange. We've always appreciated this benefit very much, but recently when my health benefit increased to nearly $600 a month (almost double) it really got my attention. My first thought was, "oh #@$%". My second thought was, "thank goodness I have good coverage". My third thought was," count your blessings that you still afford to pay for it". Now, I'm beginning to wonder if the next increase will just be too much.
Most of my REALTOR® friends are not a part of a health insurance plan. I've always been so grateful for my widow's benefits that include me in a group plan. But, I'm beginning to wonder how I'm going to be able to continue paying for that coverage if it doubles again. For the first time in my adult life, I'm beginning to understand why 47 million Americans are without health insurance. I always figured the reason for it was poverty or being self-employed. That theory was true in part, but I now realize that there is a tipping point for every one of us when health insurance moves from the necessity category to luxury status.
A question for you: What are you doing for affordable health insurance?
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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One of the most often-heard complaints about lenders is "Bait and Switch". Does it happen? You bet. But, I'd being willing to bet it doesn't happen as often as we might think. The next time someone starts giving a bad rap to a lender for a giving them a surprise at the end of the loan process, you might want to ask them to tell you more.
In my experience, the lender is not always the culprit. It can actually be the borrower who causes the loan to change at the last minute. Here are the three most common mistakes that people make while in the process of getting a loan to purchase a home or condo:
1. Making a large purchase such as a houseful of furniture or new appliances and running up their credit card balances just before the close of escrow. This can create a large fluctuation in monthly payment that can seriously affect the borrower's debt to income ratio. And, if it maxes out credit cards, the FICO scores could drop enough to disqualify the borrower from the loan program they originally qualified for.
2. Adding a new loan to your credit such as a car loan. Again, this can cause your lender to have to shop for an entirely new loan program for you because they can no longer justify that your income will suffice for your existing debt and your new home loan.
3. Either husband or wife decides to quit their job before escrow closes so they'll have time to pack up and move into the new home. If you're qualifying for a loan based on two incomes, this can make your loan disappear just before closing. You see, most mortgage companies will make a final phone call to your employers just before they fund your home loan. So you went through the entire process for nothing and your lender is left to scramble for a new loan for you.
These are just three classic reasons why the loan you thought you were getting is no longer available to you. There can be other reasons, too. Mortgage companies frequently pull loan programs. So, the program that exists today, may not exist tomorrow.
All of the above reasons are the reason you need to work with a lender you can trust to work for your best interests. If you need help in finding a lender you can trust with your home or condo financing needs, please give me a call. As a REALTOR® in Orange County, California it has been my privilege to work with some of the best lenders in the business. I'd be happy to refer you to a lender who will provide you with excellent service. Just give me a call. We'll discuss your specific needs and I'll introduce you to just the right person to assist you in getting your home or condo loan.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Look! Up in the sky...Is it a bird, or a plane?
As a kid from the fifties, those words sure made an impression on me. No matter what peril befell the city, all the problems could be solved in just one half-hour episode including 10 minutes of commercials. Just once in awhile wouldn't it be cool to be able to call upon the powers of a superhero to make everything go smoother in our daily lives?
Today was just that kind of day. And, lucky for me and my client, I have the telephone number of a superhero that I can call to make things go smoothly against many obstacles in getting my client into a new home. There were obstacles to overcome and snags, snares, and pitfalls, but my personal superhero swooped in and made everything work. Yes, it did take more than a half hour, but there were no commercials. Simply, a "It's my pleasure to get this done for you, Marlene." And then he was off to save another REALTOR'S® day.
Who was this caped crusader? It was none other than Mr. Brian Brady. 
Great guy. Great service. Great resource. He doesn't really wear a cape, but today, he sure swooped in and saved the day for my client. Thanks Brian. So glad we met on Active Rain.
Brian Brady is one of the top bloggers here on Active Rain. His office is located in San Diego, California. Today, he went more than the extra mile to meet with me, a document signer and my client. After he thoroughly explained everything my client signed, we said our goodbyes and he was off to escrow to get the documents packaged so he could deliver them to the lender this afternoon. Now that's service! Brian works in most other states as well. Give him a call. You'll be amazed at what he is able to do...ethically, legally, and honestly. What a concept!
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Yesterday, I held an open house on a great townhome. The owner had just done a large price reduction and it seems to have created some genuine interest in the property. The place is vacant, but beautifully furnished and well-maintained. It was a fun open house with steady visitors throughout the four hours I was there. The last person who came through almost put a damper on my day. She was convinced that the property was over-priced compared to other properties she'd seen. Then, it hit me. This lady is not working with an agent who has been able to explain what's really happening on all those lower priced properties. The Orange County, California housing market is flooded with short sales in the price range of $250,000 to $500,000. Most of these listings are not approved short sales. The lenders haven't approved the price they are willing to take to release the owners from their mortgages. Many agents are pricing the homes unrealistically low in order to get offers to submit to the lenders to begin a negotiating process.
In reality, the lenders would most likely never accept anything as low as the offered price. In some instances, I've seen prices that are $100,000 below what I believe a lender would even consider. So, to the lady looking at the price of the property I was showing yesterday, it seemed overpriced. In reality, the condo is priced for quick sale at about $20,000 below market. As a buyer, you need to know what homes are actually selling for. To get that information, you will need to work with a REALTOR®. A REALTOR® will be able to give you the facts so you can make informed decisions.
So, if you are seriously considering whether the timing is right to buy a home in South Orange County, California. The answer is yes, this is an excellent time since there are some definite bargains out there. My best advice would be to work with a REALTOR® who can direct you on what is a good buy and what's not. And, someone who will work with you to help you understand the process every step of the way. Purchasing a home can be complex and should not be attempted without professional assistance.
If you or someone you know needs the assistance of a REALTOR® who understands the market, communicate well with you, and is willing to share their experience, please give me a call. I'm here to help.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Today I attended the second meeting of the Greening of the Woods Committee at the City of Laguna Woods. Our very capable chair is Leslie Keane, City Manager. We have a diverse committee of concerned citizens. Most of the members are residents of Laguna Woods and have been actively involved in other "green" projects, task forces and committees prior to being invited to serve on this committee. My involvement is a special treat. I was invited to serve as a member of the Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce where I'm honored to serve as President. I am able to offer input from the REALTOR® perspective as I offer my services to people buying and selling homes, condos, and real estate in Laguna Woods Village.
This was our committee's second meeting and our purpose was to identify the scope of the work we plan to address over the next 4-5 months. So far we have identified four main areas that we would like to explore further; Energy Reduction, Water Conservation, Alternative Fuel/Transportation, and Recycling. The four issues will be broken down into more specific categories and sub-committees will be formed to investigate cost, feasibility, and bring recommendations to the Committee at large.
The City of Laguna Woods is a very progressive city. The residential population primarily lives in Laguna Woods Village (formerly Leisure World). Laguna Woods Village is a 55 and better community and affords a diverse array of activities, resources, clubs, classes, facilities, and country-club lifestyle to over 16,000 residents.
The City of Laguna Woods has already taken several giant steps forward in their pro-active approach to the environment. They offer a drop off for used batteries and prescription medications (when prescriptions are flushed, they go right into the waste water that is pumped into the blue Pacific Ocean). They also have a program in place to pick up any large items such as televisions, computers, monitors, radios etc. They see to it that they are properly recycled at one of the county run disposal/recycling centers.
The City of Laguna Woods also has provided special containers for the residents to sort their refuse. Over 85% of all waste picked up in Laguna Woods is recycled vs. going to a landfill. A laudable record don't you think? It is a treat to work alongside such a passionate, reasonable, informed, intelligent, giving group. I look forward to sharing our progress as we move into the coming months and eventually begin forming task forces to implement those activities that are feasible and cost effective.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Thanks to D.J. Breckheimer's post Small GREEN ideas for the new year (Which of these do you already do?) I began thinking about some of the simple things that we can do to help improve our environment. D.J.'s post reminded me of a recent mind shift I had last week. While shopping for New Year's Eve goodies, I visited one of my favorite stores, Trader Joe's in Laguna Hills, CA. They were having a sale on a great insulated shopping bag for only $2.99. Since I had some cold items and a few more stops, I thought it was a good idea to purchase one of these bags. When I got to the checkout stand, they loaded my cold items right into my new bag and zipped it up for me. The checker handed me a little red coupon. She said to fill out my name and phone number and drop it in the box on my way out for the weekly drawing.
Much to my surprise, I'd been walking past these little boxes at all the Trader Joe's locations where I shop, never realizing what they're for. You see, everyone who provides their own bags (recycled paper or plastic, cloth or whatever) is given a chance at a weekly drawing for a TJ's gift certificate. Well, I can tell you that the free groceries would be nice, but more importantly, they made me aware of a simple thing that I can be doing to improve the environment. Thanks to TJ's opening my eyes, I now carry a supply of bags in my car so I won't be accumulating all those plastic ones under my kitchen sink.
Thanks Trader Joe's for encouraging us to do something small that can make a difference globally.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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When I first began my career in real estate, I wasn't old enough to qualify for senior discounts or live in the local active senior retirement communities of South Orange County like, Laguna Woods Village (formerly Leisure World), Palmia, or Casta del Sol. So, I didn't think of myself as a senior. Well, I'm beginning to find out I was wrong about that. Many government agencies classify us as seniors once we hit age 50! I was shocked to discover this.
I guess the difference is that today's grammas and grampas aren't like the ones I remember from my childhood. My Grammy wore orthopedic shoes and stockings, never wore slacks, pinned her hair up in a bun and never had a remote control for anything. She never learned to drive and never had hired help inside the home or a gardener. The closest she came to a gym was watching the Vic Tanny commercials on television.
Times have certainly changed. We're not only living longer, we're living better. Our quality of life is so good we've had to adjust to the idea that we will live into our 80's and 90's. With this longevity, come many new concerns such as Long Term Care, homes that are senior-friendly (for some this could mean the need for ramps and grab bars in the bathrooms), and what's the earliest tee time we can get a couple days a week? Today's active seniors are looking for opportunities to volunteer their time and use the skills their skills. They're taking classes to keep up with expanding technology and to stay; fit. As Americans, we are living longer, healthier, more active, and more productive lives than ever in the history in our country.
As a real estate professional, I've been watching the needs of many of my clients changing. So, I've been working to accumulate resources for my clients who fall into this senior category and their families. I've amassed a list of qualified, reputable, professionals and trades people who meet many of the specialized needs of this unique and ever-expanding portion of our population called seniors. If you are a senior or know a senior who may be seeking resources regarding their changing housing needs, I'd be pleased to furnish information that may be of help to you. No obligation, just information. I'm here to help!
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Providing superior Real Estate service in the South Orange County California cities of Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Laguna Niguel.
The Real Estate Market is Constantly Changing...Buying a home or condo in South Orange County (Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods-formerly Leisure World, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch and Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente) requires more than it did just a few years ago. It requires a REALTOR® who is experienced in identifying market values and trends, strong negotiation skills and a knowledge of the area. In an effort to keep in pace with the changing markets and provide superior service to her clients, Marlene has acquired a number of special designations including:
CRS® - Certified Residential Specialist is acquired by only about 5% of all agents. Yet CRS's account for over 80% of all transactions in the U.S. The training not only offers cutting edge information, it also provides a National Referral Network. So, when Marlene's clients need to make a move to another area, she is able to refer her clients to the best of the best throughout the U.S. and Canada.
SRES® - Seniors Real Estate Specialist which affords her special knowledge in working with seniors and their families. Seniors have very specific and specialized needs with regard to real estate. Marlene has prepared to identify those needs and to care for the senior client's and their families during times of lifestyle transitions.
ePro® - Demonstrating computer knowledge and internet marketing excellence.
Marlene also serves in her community as the President of the Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods Chambers of Commerce and the South Orange County Regional Chambers of Commerce. Marlene is also actively involved with the Pacific West Board of REALTORS and currently serves as Grievance Committee Chair for 2007 and on the Charity Foundation Board. On a broader level, Marlene is currently serving as Treasurer and as President Elect for 2008 for the Southern California Chapter of Certified Residential Specialists She monitors and attends 4-5 CRS education classes each year. This gives her an opportunity not only to serve others, but also increases her knowledge of cutting edge technology and information that assists her in better serving her clients.
Cruising the net to find Orange County Real Estate, can be overwhelming. The process of buying or selling a home has become very complex with the ever-changing market as well as the many laws that govern the business of real estate. Marlene's goal is to guide you through the maze, keeping you informed every step along the way. Your home buying or home selling experience should be hassle-free. There are many tasks that are performed behind the scenes including detailed paperwork and negotiating. Marlene's strong negotiation skills and attention to detail have garnered the respect and gratitude of her clients. With over 81% of all her business being referred or repeat clients, it is very important to keep all her clients satisfied---satisfied beyond their expectations.
Many agents have also appreciated that it is Marlene's practice to work together to accomplish mutual goals for clients. Marlene has been referred by numerous agents to represent their families in selling and purchasing homes particularly working with senior in Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods a senior retirement community in South Orange County.
If you or someone you know is planning a move outside the area, Marlene is prepared to assist you as a member of a national netwoork of top real estate professionals. Marlene will ascertain your needs, then interview top agents to assure that you receive the same level of excellent service from the agent on the other side of the move as you have come to expect from your work with Marlene.
Who do you know that you need to be introduce to Marlene today?
She specializes in real estate in South Orange County California cities of Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods (a 55 and over senior community), Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, Talega, Las Flores and Rancho Santa Margarita. Her business is assisting people with lifestyle transitions. Whether it's working with first-time buyers, people who need to move into a larger home, or people who find a need to scale down.
Marlene offers a unique concierge service to families who have experienced the loss of a loved one or have a parent who is no longer able to live alone. Marlene assists in getting family heirlooms packed, helping to hire estate sellers if necessary, orchestrating repairs, painting, recarpeting, etc. to get the home ready for prospective buyers. This service is provided without charge as part of her service in helping families to sell their homes. This seniors real estate service has been of particular assistance in the nearby senior community of Laguna Woods. Laguna Woods real estate and home sales in Laguna Woods requires specialized services. If you are looking for someone who has a track record in helping seniors and their families with senior real estate needs, Marlene is the person to call.
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"We didn't think we were ready to buy a home. Thanks for all your help in getting us into our first home. We couldn't have done it without you!" E.K. & N. I. - Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
"Thanks for all the great info at your class. And, thank you for helping us get the perfect home for our family."
"You went far beyond the call of duty in helping to get my home sold. Thanks you for referring and overseeing the work that needed to be done to get my home ready to sell. You're a miracle worker." M.B. - Laguna Hills, CA
"After Mom died, it was really hard to get down to selling her home. Thank you for your help in sorting out and packing all the family memories. The estate sellers you referred us to did a great job. We were able to use that money for the painting, carpet and handyman services you arranged for. It was such a blessing to know that we didn't need to come fly to California from our homes in Colorado to get all this accomplished. We knew we could count on you. When the house was ready to put on the market, you also did a great job explaining the offers we received and helped us to get the best price possible for Mom's home in Laguna Woods." M.S. & D.S. - Colorado
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