Are you looking for a good rental property in the Clovis Unified School District for under $210,000?  Do you want the house to be north of Herndon ave.?  This house has a lot going for it and if location, location, location is important then you need to consider this home.  This house is located off of Maple and north of Herndon.  This summer a brand new AC condenser unit was installed.  Other upgrades over the past 3-4 years have been a new hot water heater, new paint in all three bedrooms, new carpet in two of the bedroom, new tile floors in two of the bathrooms, ceiling fans, light fixtures and a stainless steel range.  This house is ideal for the first time buyer or an investor.  All of the bedrooms are located upstairs.  There is a bathroom with no shower/tub downstairs for gues... 08/21/2014

A couple of months ago I was contacted by a seller who wanted a home stager to come out and do a consultation, and possibly stage the property in preparation to list their home. We set up a time and day. She said that they were changing agents because the other had "done nothing to sell her home and wouldn't list it for what it was worth." Red flag pointing to the black hole. During our conversation I forgot to mention the staging consultation fee so I called her back to tell her. The seller then said that they had decided not to bother with staging afterall. They would be fine on their own. I gave her some helpful hints about decluttering, painting etc. and wished her well. I thought I had dodged the black hole. Two agents, whom I know well, were interviewed for the listing. One of the... 05/08/2014

Fresno CA has several areas of vintage homes that were built in the first half of the 20th century, many even before 1900. Fortunately for those who love these homes many have been carefully preserved and others are now being renovated by investors, staged by Selling By Design-Staging and sold to new owners. Older,often neglected neighborhoods are being revitalized and coming to life with new families who want to live in quiet tree lined historic communities. Recently Selling By Design-Staging had the privledge of staging one of these homes, one of many, which sold within two days of listing. The savy investor who renovated this quaint historic house knows the value home staging can add to a restored property. Fortunately for the team at Selling By Design-Staging, others are catching on... 03/15/2014

As a home stager I often peruse through the MLS to see what's out there. I've come to the conclusion that what's out there are a lot of high end homes that could benefit from at least a home staging consultation.   Most real estate agents go over with their clients the basics of readying a home for sale. clean declutter do any necessary repairs, paint etc. This is great advice and imperative for selling most homes. It seems that many agents are understandably hesitant to suggest a home staging consultation for homes that are in the higher end of the market and have expensive, if outdated or taste specific,  furnishings. These agents may have tried to explain the advantages of making the home more neutral or appealing to a wider market, but for fear of insulting their clients may not hav... 03/02/2014

"Can you just hang some pictures on the wall and put some plants around, maybe some towels in the bath and kitchen?" "We don't really need furniture. Just dress it up some." As home staging professionals in Fresno CA and in most cities I am sure, we've heard these requests. It is an attempt to save money in the marketing of a home for sale. But does this version of vacant home staging accomplish the client's goal? Do a few accessories warm up the space, show prospective buyers how livable a home can be, or bring a quick sale? Or do the objects used in "lite staging" simply distract the buyer's eye from the details of the home? Rather than create a warm inviting space, which is done by staging with furniture and accessories, thus accentuating the home's features, placing a few accessorie... 03/01/2014

2014 Chinese New Year Festival in Fresno The Chinese Year of the Horse officially began on January 31st.  But it's not too late to start the party.  Fresno Chinatown is celebrating with a 2014 Chinese New Year Festival in Fresno this Saturday, March 1st and everyone is invited to attend. What: 2014 Chinese New Year Festival in FresnoWhere: Fresno Chinatown, 914 F StWhen: Saturday, March 1st 10am to 3pmCost: FREEContact: Fresno Chinatown (559) 201-8696 The 2014 Chinese New Year Festival in Fresno festivities begin at 10am in the very heart of Fresno Chinatown.  Dr. Joseph Castro, Fresno State's President, serves as Grand Marshall this year.  This family-friendly festival includes lots of great Chinese food, tons of activities to keep the little ones entertained, dozens of local Fresno ar... 02/27/2014

Animal Rescue of Fresno Sweetheart Breakfast Humans aren't the only creatures who need love and attention.  After you've spent Valentine's Day with your human sweetie, celebrate your love of the furry, four-legged kind at the Animal Rescue of Fresno Sweetheart Breakfast. What: Animal Rescue of Fresno Sweetheart BreakfastWhen: Sat, February 15, 2014 9amWhere: Animal Rescue of Fresno - ARF (4545 E Dakota)Cost: $10 ages 13+, $6 ages 3-12, FREE ages 2 and under (with paid adult)Contact: ARF (559) 225-5715 At the Animal Rescue of Fresno Sweetheart Breakfast, you can eat to your heart's content.  There will be lots of traditional breakfast goodies, including pancakes, juice and coffee.  Items donated by local Fresno businesses will be on display for guests to bid on for the silent auction.  P... 02/13/2014

Woodward Lake Home Sales Trends Fresno, CA. 93730 You can't get enough of Woodward Lake and that is reaffirmed by the amount of looks my blog gets about this neighborhood.  It is unlike any other neighborhood in the Fresno, CA. market.  It offers older, established homes and unique design in a safe and highly desirable part of town.  There is something for everybody out here from the first time buyer to the well off buyer looking for a castle on the waterfront. Every blog I post I try to get fresh pictures rather than just recycling old ones I have saved on my computer.  I do this because I enjoy taking pictures and learning how to take better photos.  But also this allows buyers to get a feel for neighborhoods during various seasons of the year so they can see what it looks like year ... 02/05/2014

If you are like me you have and love your iPad for your business.  My MLS recently offered an iPad class for users. The information was amazing and is proving to be very valuable for me. The most important takeaway, in my opinion, was about how to extend the life of the device.  First, understand that there are approximately 1000 battery charges built into the iPad. Which means that it can be recharged about 1000 times before it expires and is useless.  Next, to preserve battery life while the iPad is not in use, it must be completely turned off. To completely turn it off, hold down the power button on the top. A red lighted arrow will shortly appear on the screen. Slide the arrow to the side and the power will be turned off, saving battery life.  Finally, if at all possible, never rech... 01/27/2014

Fresno Neighborhood Appreciation Day 2014 How well do you know your Fresno neighbors?  Iglesia ni Cristo would like to get to know you, your neighbors and everyone else in the Fresno community.  That's why they've decided to throw a Fresno Neighborhood Appreciation Day 2014 on January 26th and they are extending an invitation to everyone in the Fresno community. What: Fresno Neighborhood Appreciation Day 2014Where: Iglesia ni Cristo/Church of Christ (826 N Palm Ave, Fresno)When: Sunday, January 26, 2014 1pm to 5pmCost: FREEContact: (559) 352-5191 For Fresno Neighborhood Appreciation Day 2014, the Iglesia ni Cristo has created a fun, family-friendly event to get to know you.  Guests are invited to enjoy lots of yummy food and live entertainment.  Kids can get their faces painted.  Take a... 01/23/2014

Fresno Pajama Drive for Foster Kids 2014 There's nothing like snuggling up in a nice pair of warm, cozy jammies on a cold winter's night.  When you're a part of the foster care system, even this small bit of comfort can be hard to come by.  That's why all Sleep Train stores are holding their annual Fresno Pajama Drive for Foster Kids 2014 right now. What: Fresno Pajama Drive for Foster Kids 2014Where: All Sleep Train StoresWhen: Now through March 2, 2014Contact: (800) 378-2337 During the Fresno Pajama Drive for Foster Kids 2014, all Sleep Train stores are asking that the community bring in new pajamas during normal business hours (10am to 9pm Monday through Friday, 10am to 8pm on Saturday, 10am to 7pm on Sunday).  All donations received during the event will then be taken to local Fresn... 01/16/2014

Fresno Farmers Markets If you're like millions of people across the country, your New Year's resolution was probably to get you and your family eating healthier.  Fresh produce offers tons of health benefits.  And it doesn't get much fresher than Fresno farmers markets!  Luckily, we have a few different ones to choose from here in the Central Valley. Certified Organic Farmers Market When: Saturdays 7am to 12pmWhere: Kristina's Natural Ranch Market (761 E Barstow)Contact: (559) 224-2222Offers: Local produce, honey, organic raw milk and eggs. Manchester Shopping Center Farmers Market When: Fridays 9am to 6pmWhere: Manchester Center (1901 E Shields)Contact: (559) 227-1901Offers: Fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers from 20-30 vendors, live entertainment provided by local bands, lunch trucks... 01/02/2014

New Year's Eve 2013 in Fresno I hope that you had a great time visiting with family over Christmas.  That's one of the reasons that Christmas is my favorite holiday.  Now that it's over, however, it's time to make plans for New Year's Eve 2013 in Fresno. Downtown Fresno Ice Rink Where: Fulton MallWhen: Now through Jan 20, 2014, 11am to 9pm Sun thru Thurs, 11am to 11pm Fri & SatCost: Mon thru Fri - adults $10, kids $8, Sat & Sun - adults $12, kids $10 (season passes available)Contact: (559) 490-9966 Price of admission includes skate rentals (if needed) and unlimited ice time. Great Gatsby New Year's Event Dinner Party Where: The Downtown Club (2120 Kern St)When: Dec 31, 2013 7pm to 9:30pm for dinner, 10pm to 2am for after-partyCost: $55 per couple for both dinner & after-party, $15 for j... 12/26/2013

Christmas Tree Lane 2013 in Fresno Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus..right down Christmas Tree Lane 2013 in Fresno.  At least, he'll be coming down Christmas Tree Lane for exactly six more days.  After Christmas Day, he's heading back to the North Pole for some much needed rest.  What: Christmas Tree Lane 2013 in FresnoWhere: On Van Ness Blvd, between Shields & ShawWhen: Now through Dec 25, 2013 6pm to 10pm Sun to Thurs, 6pm to 11pm Fri & SatCost: FREEContact: Via Email Christmas Tree Lane 2013 in Fresno is a magical place where 140 homes have been decorated in their holiday best.  More than 300 trees sparkle with thousands of lights in the night while displays of holiday cheer span the two mile lane.  The Fig Garden Homeowners Association is the sponsor of this favorite F... 12/19/2013

Fresno Winter Water Schedule 2013 As you are probably well aware of by now, Californians are facing a possible drought situation throughout the state, including the Fresno/Clovis area.  With another long dry winter staring us in the face, these conditions are only bound to worsen.  To help alleviate the burden placed on our state's natural resources, the City has put a strict Fresno Winter Water Schedule 2013 in place. The Fresno Winter Water Schedule for 2013 has restricted exterior watering for all Fresno households to one day a week.  The homes where addresses end in an odd number (ie, 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9) can water their lawn and gardens only on Saturdays.  Even numbered addresses (ie, end in 0, 2, 4, 6 or 8) can only water on Sundays.  If you have a timer for your Fresno home sprinkler... 12/12/2013

In the last few months Selling By Design-Staging has taken a new turn in service delivery. For now I will call it Staging Consultation/Accessory Only Staging, Paid For By Real Estate Agent. The paid for by REA is not being mentioned to scare away agents who do not opt to pay. I mention it simply to acknowledge this new option. I believe that the first choice is to have the seller pay for staging, but many agents are encorporating staging into their marketing budgets. If I am contacted by a seller I always assume they are willing to pay for the staging services and never mention the agent paying. I am sure it would send some agents running away from ever mentioning staging to a client and I totally get that. When I do receive a staging request from an agent who wants to pay for the stagi... 11/06/2013

Market Report for Bullard High Homes August 2013 (as of 9/17/13)   Solds Median Price: $240,000 Average Sale Price: $252,322 Least Expensive Sale: 834 W Valencia Ave, 4/2, 1543 SF, $86,000 Most Expensive Sale: 2731 W Lake Van Ness 4/5 4208 SF, $900,000 Avg. Days on Market: 30 Number of Solds: 73   Pendings: Median Price: $211,750 Average Price: $262,300 Least Expensive Pending: 115 W Buckingham Way  3/1, 1119 SF, $70,000 Most Expensive Pending:  2725 W Lake Van Ness Ave 5/8, 11775 SF, $1,975,000 Average Days on Market: 54 Number of Pendings: 50   Actives: Median Price: $265,000 Average Price: $309,484 Least Expensive Listing: 1326 E Hampton Way 1/1, 964 SF, $135,900 Most Expensive Listing: 7179 N Van Ness Blvd, 4/3, 2759 SF, $875,000 Number of Actives: 47   Current Homes Available: Up t... 09/17/2013

Market Report for Bullard High Homes July 2013 (as of 8/12/13)   Solds Median Price: $235,000 Average Sale Price: $261,879 Least Expensive Sale: 3950 N Safford Ave, 3/2, 1499 SF, $97,000 Most Expensive Sale: 2259 W Magill Ave 5/5 4502 SF, $740,000 Avg. Days on Market: 43 Number of Solds: 76   Pendings: Median Price: $207,725 Average Price: $243,565 Least Expensive Pending: 834 W Valencia Ave  4/2, 1543 SF, $77,000 Most Expensive Pending:  2557 W Lake Van Ness Ave 5/5, 4965 SF, $1,395,000 Average Days on Market: 60 Number of Pendings: 65   Actives: Median Price: $279,950 Average Price: $382,006 Least Expensive Listing: 5172 N Maroa Ave 4/2, 1600 SF, $150,000 Most Expensive Listing: 6037 N Van Ness Blvd, 4/5, 7953 SF, $2,499,000 Number of Actives: 25   Current Homes Available: Up to $100,... 08/12/2013

  We're Getting Closer! Elderberry On The Bluff Will Be Ready To Open Soon!       Our beautiful Epiphany, a Lennar Next Gen - The Home Within A Home floor plan, will be available at Elderberry on the Bluff.     Overlooking the verdant San Joaquin River, you can experience impressive, single-family homes with beautiful new architectural designs and favorites from the esteemed Cambridge Collection at Lennar’s Elderberry on the Bluff. New home buyers will live extraordinarily well within the Elderberry community and enjoy the benefits of Lennar’s Everything’s Included homes.   This exclusive community boasts three distinctive series of homes: the Pinnacle Series, the Chateau Series and the Cambridge Collection. These homes range from 1,766 to 2,969 square feet with three to five bedrooms, ... 07/29/2013

Read the recent article from the Fresno Bee HERE Simply put – inventory is TIGHT How tight you ask? Take a look at todays 24 HOUR MARKET WATCH We have 45 new listings and in the last 24 hours 64 homes have gone into contract.  The market is highly in favor of Sellers… that is, the ones who are ABLE to sell.  Still a lot of folks underwater. I recently helped an investor purchase 3 homes: Two traditional sales and one short sale.  On both traditional sales there were MULTIPLE OFFERS and my Buyer had to pay over the ask to get the properties.  Even so, he ended up with what we both believe to be great bargains. One of the homes he purchased for $139k  I have leased for $1085.00 per month Another home he paid $167k and I have just got it leased for $1495.00 The most recently purchased of t... 07/08/2013