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Carlsbad, CA Real Estate News

By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze in Carlsbad The Annual Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze are open at the Carlsbad Strawberry Company in Carlsbad. The popular pumpkin patch opened on September 20 and will stay open until November 3rd. What’s Fall and Halloween without pumpkins? There’s no question the Carlsbad Strawberry Company is known far and wide for its strawberries, and they sell a ton of them; you can buy them already picked or enjoy picking them yourself. Unfortunately, strawberry season is now over (end of January to mid July depending on weather). However, at Halloween time the Carlsbad Strawberry Company also offers a huge pumpkin patch with great photo opportunities. The Patch is wheelchair accessible. And of course, there’s the opportunity for everyone to pick their favorite pumpkin, ...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad Village Street Faire ~ November 3, 2024 ~ The Carlsbad Village Street Faire is a hugely popular event for 45 years, returning to Carlsbad Village Sunday, November 3rd. The Faire is hosted by the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Kennedy and Associates. The Carlsbad Village Street Faire is reported to be the largest outdoor 1-day fair in the US. There is also a Carlsbad Village Street Faire held every May. The Carlsbad Village Street Faire is held from 8 am until 4 pm. That should be ample time to enjoy hundreds of vendors and shop to your heart’s content. (photos are from another of Carlsbad's well-known art fairs in the Village).  The Carlsbad Village Street Faire takes place in the center of town, along Grand Avenue from Carlsbad Boulevard to Jefferson. The Fa...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
What’s the Value of My Cardiff-by-the-Sea Home? Cardiff Home Sales for September 2024 It’s essential that buyers and sellers in the Cardiff real estate market have current information about local market conditions. If you are planning to buy or sell this will allow you to make informed buying and selling decisions about Cardiff homes for sale. Supply and demand impact selling and buying in several ways, including pricing, the amount of competition, and days on market. It’s important to understand how local market conditions can impact your buying and/or selling decisions. Let’s talk now! Read More About Cardiff-by-the-Sea: Cardiff by the Sea – Quintessential Beach Community Like to Walk? Live in the Walking District in Cardiff CAWant to Live in a Musical Community? Try the Composer Dist...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
What’s the Value of My Carlsbad Home? Carlsbad Market Report for September 2024 The Carlsbad real estate market continues to shift, with changes from August and 1 year ago. Private sales, mobile homes and multi-family housing are not included (the numbers are taken from the MLS and believed to be accurate as reported but are not guaranteed). Media market reports typically are very generalized. As a result they do not reflect local Carlsbad housing market conditions (read more - How Local IS Local?). Current information, and analysis, about local market conditions benefits you when you need to make important buying and/or selling decisions about Carlsbad homes for sale. READ MORE ABOUT CARLSBADCarlsbad Village by the Sea 88 homes sold in Carlsbad in September (92008, 92009, 92010 and 920...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
I know you have heard through the media, and perhaps friends and neighbors, that this is a tough market for sellers. The media may, at times, distort the facts or headline trends that are not necessarily accurate, but the truth is that this market favors buyers. There is a lot of competition, with many homes in your price range and area, so potential buyers have many choices besides your home. So how do we ensure that your home in Carlsbad is the one that they will see as the best value for their money?I have talked about the things sellers should do in order to sell their homesfor top dollar and quickly in a buyer's market. And you probably know some of this information already. But having worked with many sellers in different markets, I find that despite knowing what they should do i...
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By Tim Holsten, Holsten Team
(Sea Coast Exclusive Properties | Holsten Team )
I like to put a community spin on my marketing pieces and wanted to show an example. Unfortunately, the photographs and fonts from this 2005 Carlsbad marketing piece did not post over into this blog but please look at the content as an example of how I try to use my marketing pieces to educate people about their community.           Tim Holsten   Broker-Associate 858-922-7908     The Holsten Report    "Experience your Community" - October 20      Do you ever have visiting friends/family ask you "What's living in Carlsbad like?"  Here's something you can hold onto and simply hand them the next time the question comes up.  I dedicated Friday, October 14, to taking pictures of different locations in Carlsbad every hour on the hour from 7am to 5pm.  Below is the result of my enjoyable day s...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Southern California is known for its outdoor lifestyle that residents and vacationers can enjoy year-round due to the fabulous weather (well, most of the time). In large part that is the reason for the number of folks who now live here, or are moving here despite the high cost of living.Carlsbad, like many other coastal towns in the San Diego area offers much in the way of outdoor living. Of course you have wonderful beaches to enjoy year-round - surfing, sun bathing, swimming, fishing, kite flying, dining, watching the sun set, and more. And of course there is lots of camping available at South Carlsbad State Beach.Most homes are oriented toward an outdoor lifestyle, and a merging of the inside and outdoors. Outdoor kitchens are getting far more popular and elaborate - some properties ...
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I know, it sounds like a cheesy television slogan but that's exactly what happened. A neighbor approached me about putting his place on the market. He purchased the townhouse 2 years ago for $410k. Well, the real estate market has changed significantly since then. He was shocked to find out what townhouses in our neighborhood were going for. Basically, he was upside down $50k in a best case scenario. Imagine sitting at the closing and writing a check for $50k in order to sell your house. To top it off, his adjustable rate reset to 9.25% from his comfortable teaser rate. After running down his options, he decided we should pursue a short sale with the lender. I spent a good part of my day talking up the hierarchy at IndyMac Bank and finally left a message with a supervisor in their Loss ...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Summer presents a wealth of outdoor activities in Carlsbad, and one of the highlights of the summer is the Jazz on the Green Summer series at the Four Seasons Aviara Resort in southwest Carlsbad in Aviara.The Four Seasons Jazz on the Green series is in its 10th year, and the line-up is outstanding once again. - Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Peter White and Euge Groove (check out their websites and listen to their music!) The series commences on July13th with concerts from 6 - 8 PM on Fridays through August 3.The event is held at the resort's tennis/recreation center and there is plenty of parking off Batiquitos Drive (head east of the 5 on Poinsettia and turn right on Batiquitos and follow the signs). The concert series is complimentary for hotel guests, but a limited number of tickets ar...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad has a great reputation as far as its schools are concerned. Buyers, both local and out of the area, are drawn to the many neighborhoods in Carlsbad because of the school programs.Bressi Ranch is a fairly new master planned community in central Carlsbad, at the junction of Palomar Airport Road, El Camino Real and Poinsettia, and just north of the La Costa area. Secondary students (grades 7 and 8) in this area will now be able to attend a brand new independent school, Pacific Ridge School, that will be opening on September 5, 2007.Pacific Ridge School is an independent, non-profit secondary school focusing on academic excellence, ethical responsibility and global engagement. About 120 students are expected for the inaugural year. For more information, visit their website or call ...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad, California is a popular place to live in North County San Diego. The residents who live there, and the continued growth, are testimony to this town's desirability as a West Coast destination in Southern California. Located about 30 miles north of downtown San Diego along the coast, Carlsbad real estate is some of the southern coast's most affordable, except for Oceanside to the north. This community of 95,000 residents occupies an area of about 40.8 square miles, making it one of the least dense communities along the coast, with lots of open space and multiple community parks. There are a wide range of neighborhoods to explore and each offers a different feel and amenities (for example La Costa, Rancho Carrillo, Aviara and Calavera Hills - more neighborhoods are listed below)...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
The Acura Tennis Classic tournament, a world-class sporting event (celebrating its 24th year), has been held every year in Carlsbad at the La Costa Resort and Spa since 1991, and is, perhaps the premier event at the resort (save for the Accenture Golf Tournament which, until last year, had been held at the resort in the spring for a number of years). Once again the La Costa area of Carlsbad, CA is on the world map.This event attracts the world's top-ranked female tennis players (Serena Williams, Sharapova [currently ranked #2 and the defending champion], Hingis, Henin [currently ranked #1], and on and on) for a week of outstanding tennis, both singles and doubles matches. This year the event will be held beginning July 28th and running through August 5th. Tickets may be ordered on-line ...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
You might consider this to be a public service announcement for residents of Carlsbad, Encinitasand other communities. Whether you are a resident of these parts (San Diego County) or considering a move here, you should be aware of the increased likelihood of snake activity in Southern California at this time of year.Of greatest concern, of course, is the one native venomous snake, the rattlesnake, which comes in 16 varieties and inhabits various areas of California depending on species - there are 3 types of rattlers living in San Diego County, so you have a fair chance of seeing one at some point, especially in more rural areas, near golf course, or in canyons. Such snakes are a danger to humans, of course, who might encounter them hiking, walking, golfing or camping. And while most bi...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Buyers in the Carlsbad real estate market  who wish to live in a luxury community may find their dream home in the gated Bella Lago association, one of the 16 Aviara communities in southwest Carlsbad. This neighborhood was honored as the San Diego Community of the Year in 1997. Bella Lago is a private and gated enclave (with two entrances) along the Batiquitos Lagoon, consisting of 61 one and two-story homes, built by Brookfield, ranging in size from 3,011 to 4,814 SF on 4 street - Shorebird Lane, Pelican Street, Alcyon Court and Mallard Court.     Many Bella Lago homes have terrific lagoon or ocean views; some homes back up directly to the Batiquitos Lagoon preserve area. Rolling hills of the community, lush landscaping and palm trees, and the views of the lagoon and adjacent hills ad...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
High-end buyers in the Carlsbad real estate market often gravitate toward Aviara,  a resort-like residential area in South carlsbad near the ocean. AVIARA POINT, probably the most exclusive area of Aviara in Carlsbad, is a gated community high on the hills overlooking the ocean adn the Aviara golf course. Homes are sequestered behind gates on Aviara Drive (2 entrances), this luxury neighborhood across the canyon from the Park Hyatt Aviara offers the finest in residential living with terrific ocean, lagoon, hill and golf course views (3rd through 5th, and 7th and 8th fairways) depending on the home.   The Aviara Point enclave of 69 detached, custom 1 and 2 story homes offers the finest amenities on a hillside setting overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon and the ocean. Homes range in size f...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
One of the joys of living in the San Diego area is the weather, of course. And if you are a plant lover or gardener the joy is even greater. The area, due to the climate and the terrific year-round temperatures, provides for a lush garden, with lots of exotic plans and flowers, a variety of palms, or xeriscape plantings (drought resistant) for more of a desert look, provided irrigation is in place. Your choices are almost limitless.Many homes in the Carlsbad area have gorgeous gardens, year-round, and the landscaping business is substantial. Lot of folks also have gardeners in periodically (weekly or so) to manage their gardens and lawn care, at least the big stuff, unless they prefer to do this themselves. Planning a garden or landscaping a property can take lots of planning to ensure ...
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By Richard Elias
(Century 21 Award)
Suburban Oasis in beautiful Carlsbad. Location: AviaraThis model perfect end unit has charm and class. Our spacious floor plan features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. With a beautiful loft, it makes it perfect for family entertaining or personal office space. Well maintained and lovingly occupied this home has it all. From its large backyard to the Pergo floors, it's a family pleaser. Nestled in the prestigious Aviara community this home offers serenity, privacy, and quite living.To learn more about this home, call our 24 Hour Information line at 1-800-474-1919 Enter Code 2148.Tired of Making Your Landlord Rich? Then Quit Throwing Your Money Down the Drain. Visit Richardelias.com.- Search Available Properties- View Photos and Virtual Tours- Manage your favorite homes- Receive email alerts of...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad, as many already know, has lots to offer folks in the way of art, music, restaurants, shopping and just tourist-type stuff to do. You can easily find something to do most any day or night of the week year-round, no matter what your interest or budget, or simply enjoy sitting around or strolling along the beaches (click here for a virtual tour of local beaches, with music), appreciating the fabulous coastal climate in North County San Diego. Popular tourist attractions include the Carlsbad beaches (especially South Carlsbad State Beach which offers camping), Legoland, Leo Carrillo Ranch, the Museum of Making Music, and the Flower Fields (mid March to early May). There are lots of places to go surfing, and you can take surfing lessons if you wish.   The Batiquitos Lagoon (photo ...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Here are the summary statistics from the MLS for the month of May for Carlsbad, California.There are some things to note, especially with regard to changes since January 2007.The inventory has increased, which is typical for the spring market. While the median price for both attached and detached homes is about the same as last month (a slight drop for attached), prices overall have increased since January: 4% for detached homes, and 3% for attached homes (but see my note below).The inventory is a little under 6 months for detached homes, the lowest it has been since May of 2006. The average marketing time has also shown a very modest drop in the last several months. Keep in mind these are trends, and not necessarily indicative of the changes we can continue to expect. NOTE: We have see...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Need a new car?  Or an old car? Then here's the community profile you should read California, as everyone knows, is probably the car capital of the world. Supposedly there are more cars in Los Angeles than there are people. That's pretty amazing to me.               We are an auto-centric state for sure (there's a post coming on that, so stay tuned). Knowing the importance of cars in our lives (well, for many of us at least), knowing where to go to buy a new or used car is smart (unless you are an on-line fanatic - Craigslist.com is one place to check, but there are a bunch of Internet car websites, such as CarsDirect.com).   This post is about CAR COUNTRY in Carlsbad. This is not to say that this is the ONLY place to go, but there are certainly some impressive options if you are in No...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
On the east side of Carlsbad, just a short hop from the San Marcos border, is a pleasant, tree-lined community on rolling hills called La Costa Meadowridge. Obviously the name is a dead give-away that this neighborhood is located in the La Costa area of Carlsbad, perhaps a 15 or 20 minute drive to the Carlsbad and Encinitas beaches.La Costa Meadowridge is a complex of attached condominiums built in 1985 and 1986, many with views of the surrounding common areas, trees and hills, and arranged in small enclaves, some with cul-de-sacs. These homes range in size from around 1100 SF up to a bit over 1700 SF with either 2 or 3 bedrooms and 2 or 2.5 baths. Some units include 1 or more fireplaces. While there are a number of primary homeowners, some units are second homes and investment properti...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
  Yes, Carlsbad, CA has a windmill, and it's pretty well known. The Windmill is more formally known as Windmill Banquet and Catering, with a Dutch-style windmill visible for some distance. The site is shared by the Holiday Inn, providing rooms for visitors and conference attendees. Windmill is the site of the monthly Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce meetings, among many other corporate events. The Windmill was built in 1980 and remodeled in 1999. It is located just off the 5 freeway and less than a mile from the ocean. If you are staying at the hotel, there are a number tourist attractions close-by to occupy your time, in addition to the pristine Carlsbad beaches. World-famous Legoland is less than a mile away from The Windmill. Nearby you will also find the famous Flower Fields, a multi-ac...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Carlsbad has a good reputation as a golfing destination in Southern California. And with two well-known golf resorts, La Costa Spa and Resort (with 2 courses) in the La Costa area, and the Four Seasons Aviara Resort (public) in Aviara, one can understand. There is also a public golf course at Rancho Carlsbad (a 55+ residential community north of La Costa). Perhaps we don't measure up to Rancho Santa Fe, a nearby very affluent neighbor with, I believe, 7 country clubs and 3 courses each at two of them - Morgan Run and Fairbanks Ranch. But we do pretty well. And there are other public courses nearby in Oceanside, San Marcos (Twin Oaks. Lake San Marcos) and Encinitas (Encinitas Ranch Golf Course). The newest addition to the golfing circuit in Carlsbad, The Crossings at Carlsbad, will be o...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
Brookfield is an attractive, un-gated neighborhood on the eastern side of Carlsbad where Alga Road meets Melrose, near the edge of San Marcos (look for Xana Way at the light on Alga, the main road through Brookfield).   Buyers who are looking at Carlsbad homes for sale, especially first time buyers, are often drawn to the community because of the location and the pricing. With the median price of a detached home in Carlsbad's La Costa area (92009) at $829,000 for April 2007, Brookfield becomes a viable area for new buyers to purchase.   Brookfield is a quiet residential neighborhood, with several small "villages," and there are several community pools andsmall parks for residents. Homes were built in the mid to late 1980s and most are two story. Homeowners pay a nominal HOA fee (around...
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