About Carmichael's Arden Arcade

While I live two blocks from the line that divides the Arden Arcade Area from Carmichael, I do have family members, friends and a multitude of clients who DO live in the Arden Arcade Area and WILL be affected by the possible changes coming on.

Actually, as with all things, change is inevitable.

The question is, what kind of change will transpire and how will it affect the tri-zip code residents of the Arden Arcade Area?

As I leave my house each day, I can’t help but notice the numerous yard and street signs that either oppose or support Measure D. This is the Measure which will determine whether Arden Arcade becomes its own city. The November ballot is just around the corner, and with so many other issues to be concerned with, this seems to me to be a big one for those who will feel its impact.

From a real estate perspective, incorporating Citrus Heights was smart. But is it the right thing for Arden Arcade? Who can say for sure?

This Wednesday I’ve asked Matt Gray to be a guest on my show to candidly discuss the matter. While Matt himself is a resident of Arden Arcade, he will also be running for City Council, should Measure D pass.

While it’s not my intention to embark in a debate (I don’t have a vote or a position), it is my intention to provide Arden Arcade residents with honest to goodness facts. I’m doing my homework and looking at both sides, but I want to encourage your questions and concerns as well. Please email me anything you’d like me to ask Matt to address, including your challenging questions: Tamara2@surewest.net.

The show airs live this Wednesday at 10 AM, on Sacramento Smiles. If you have friends or family who perhaps aren’t Internet users, they can call in and listen to the show at 646-929-2557 (long distance charges may apply).

This is the opportunity for residents of Arden Arcade to have their voices heard beyond a simple sign in the yard. Speak up!

Ta Ta For Now,

Tamara

The Arden Arcade Area is at a steady sales pace for the month of March. This area includes the major streets of Marconi all the way down watt to almost Auburn, and it butts right up against Carmichael. In fact, it's so funny because my in-laws on one side of Mission Ave. and we live on the other, yet we have different zip codes. Not sure who figures all that fun stuff up (City Planning?), but I'm glad it isn't me!

I do know that my husband, kids and all the dogs have grown up on the edge of Carmichael and Arden Arcade, so we are all quite find of Mission Avenue Park, the San Juan School District, and the many conveniences of the area (did I mention Togo's that not only employeed two of my teenagers all through high school, but also kept me in turkey and swiss sandwhiches for years!

Here's what's happening in the Arden Arcade Area Housing:

Current Active Arden Arcade Listings: 107

of those 47 appear to be distressed....meaning REO, or more likely, short sale.

March Sales: 47 however, only 9 them have closed, meaning the others are pending....could be short sales, again.

Year to date the Arden Arcade Area zip (which is 95821) has sold a mere 87 homes. Prices are ranging right now from in the very low 100's to the mid-200's. Of course, there are much more higher priced homes, they just aren't on the market right now.

If you're looking for a home to buy in the Arden Arcade Area, please visit my interactive website and see what's available:

http://www.findcarmichaelhomes.com/

If you have a home you'd like to sell in the Arden Arcade Area, please visit my other site and request a free CMA....I can give you a good price-range for your home's current value:

http://www.findcarmichaelhomes.com/

If you're considering a loan modification or a short sale, please contact me directly at 916.482.5834. I would be happy to confidentially discuss your options.

Ta ta for now,

Tamara

Check out these great home owner tips for Sacramento residents, brought to you compliments of Scott Storlie of Pillar to Post-your eagle-eye, inspection guy! (contact info below)

By the way, Scott was my guest last week on SACRAMENTO SMILES RADIO, at www.InLoveWithSacto.com with some terrific tips for buyers and sellers.

House Tips:

In winter, by finding and fixing drafts and leaks, you'll have a warmer house and save money. Here are simple fixes that'll have you cutting your energy usage - and bills - by up to 40%.

1. Electrical Outlets.
Look at all exterior wall outlets by unscrewing the plates and peaking underneath. If there's no insulation, they're likely letting in cold air. Head to the hardware store. Pick up foam insulation specially made for outlets. Just cut to size, insert in the outlet and re-cover.

2. Windows.
Pull back any curtains or blinds, then hold a lit candle near the window frame. Any flickering of the flame is a sign of draft. Calk away any leaks. There's no need to be an expert handyman or buy tools you'll hardly use. Instead use rope caulk (available in hardware stores). It comes in cords, and all you need to do is unroll and press in place around window edges.

3. Doors.
Wait until nighttime, shut off your interior lights, head outside and have a helper inside shine a flashlight around the door frame. See a lot of light? You've got a leak. To cut down on drafts simply fill old tube socks with uncooked rice, tie the end off with some string and rest against the bottom of the door.

Have a wider entrance or sliding door?
Cut off one leg from an old pair of pants, stuff with the remaining fabric, tie both ends shut and place it at the bottom of the door. For the sides, buy some inexpensive foam tape weather-stripping: simply apply the adhesive backing to the inside of the doorjamb and put a stop to leaks in seconds.

In a world full of stress, home is where we go to feel comfort and peace. Here are a few ways to enhance your experience.