Photos from Laguna Homes|Laguna Condos| Laguna Real Estate|Marlene Bridges
Entrance to Laguna Hills Civic Center-City offices including Mayor, City Council and City Manager's offices.Located in: Laguna Hills, CA
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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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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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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Yup, Los Angeles is the birthplace of the French Dipped Sandwich. It happened in 1918 when Philippe Mathieu dropped the French Roll he was using to make a sandwich into a roasting pan just out of the oven filled with drippings. The policeman he was making the sandwich for said he'd take the sandwich anyway. The next day, he came back with some friends and they all wanted to try those "dipped" sandwiches. Thus the French Dipped sandwich was born.
Philippe's is nestled in Los Angeles just across from the Postal Annex, train station, just up the street from Olvera Street and backs up to Chinatown. It's become a great place for locals to gather and for folks like my best buddy and fellow Rainer, Lynda Eisenmann and myself to gravitate to every time we get up to Los Angeles. Lynda introduced me to this place about five years ago...and now there's no turning back! If Lynda and I are even within 15 miles of the place, all we have to do is look at one another and whoever is driving just heads straight for the Philippe's.
Outside the sign proudly says, "established 1908". Yup, they'll soon be celebrating 100 years of serving up great food at great prices. Inside, it's not quite like anything else in L.A. There's community seating at long tables with stools and benches, sawdust on the floors and a very unique serving style. You step up to a glass, refrigerated counter---like one you'd see in a butcher shop. Inside are delectable treats like fresh cole slaw, macaroni salad, potato salad, tapioca, custard, pigs knuckles, pickled eggs, huge dill pickles and other interesting treats. Behind the counter are ladies wearing old-fashioned waitress outfits and those little white starched hats that the gals at the lunch counters wore in the 40's and 50's. People line up to be waited on in lines adjacent to the servers on the other side of the counter.
Before you even walk in the door, there's the wonderful aroma of Sunday roast in the oven. The French Dipped Sandwiches are available in Roast Lamb, Roast Turkey, Roast Beef, Roast Pork or ham. You have a choice of with or without cheese and single or double dip. The meat juices are not served in a cup like most restaurants do. They go directly onto the bun---double dip is the best! The lady behind the counter is your carver. She carves your choice of meat from the roast that was freshly cooked that day. She dishes up your side orders, loads your drinks on the tray and slides a small tray toward you with your bill. Usually, for two sandwiches, two side orders, and two drinks will run about $12 with tip...unless you decide to sample one of the great beers or a glass of wine.
It's a feast! You find a table to share and sit down to enjoy. They make gallons of hot mustard every week and it's served up in little glass jars on each table. Sit down, take a bite and prepare to be WOWED! It's just simply incredible food. Served with pride, prepared the old fashioned way---no nukes---no frozen anything. Just big old ovens, everything seasoned to perfection and lovingly prepared the old fashioned way with plenty of time, and loving care.
The Pork Roast and Roast Beef are my favorites. We usually get one of each and split them. It's a treat you'll not soon forget...You'll be imitating our Governator Arnold, saying, "I'll be back!" Next time you're in Los Angeles, stop by Philippe's. They're just East of the 101 Freeway and Downtown at 1001 North Alameda Street in Los Angeles.
There are also old-time phone booths---they still work---and a candy counter where you can buy candy that you'll remember from your childhood if you're a child of the fifties. Things like Big Hunks, Bit ‘O Honey, Abba Zabba, Clove Gum...well you get the picture. Just plain fun!
Below are some of the fun photos from years gone by that hang on the walls.
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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 on the Professional Standards Committee and formerly served Grievance Committee Chair in 2007 and on the Charity Foundation Board. On a broader level, Marlene is currently serving 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 network 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 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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