Rancho Santa Margarita Housing Element Meeting by John Alesi, Rancho Santa Margarita REALTOR® Rancho Santa Margarita CA Real Estate On Wednesday, March 19th, the City of Rancho Santa Margarita will be holding a Planning Commission meeting to discuss their Draft Housing Element.  The Housing Element is one of seven parts of Rancho Santa Margarita’s General Plan that uses population and employment projections to plan for growth in the city.  The Housing Element includes an extensive site inventory of available land to meet the future housing needs of Rancho Santa Margarita. The meeting will be held in The Emergency Operations Room (EOC) at 22112 El Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita 92688.  For more information on the Housing Element or the upcoming meeting contact Nate Farnsworth, City Plann... 03/10/2008

On home prices. There are a LOT of opinions, sentiment, tons of data with unlimited ways of interpreting it, interest rates, etc. etc.I have been selling Real Estate a long time, long enough to know not to make concrete predictions. This market will have to play out.I believe whole heartily that home prices will stabilize and eventually start going up. I'm pretty sure the vast majority of home owners feel the same way, if they didn't, wouldn't there be a lot more homes on the market?I hold open houses every weekend, every Sat. and Sun. I know this isn't scientific, but I have seen a very substantial increase in the number of people coming through my open houses. I've been typically printing up 6 or 7 brochures for each day and that has normally been enough, in fact, from Oct. through Ja... 03/10/2008

There is a silver lining in the current Real Estate market that is starting to peak through the clouds.  If you have ever thought about taking the steps to become a Real Estate Investor there are some excellent opportunities currently available in South Orange County that have not been available for years.   Below is a simplistic, real estate investment example for the first time investor.Assume you are purchasing a 2 bed/2 bath condo in Rancho Santa Margarita (yes, at the time of publishing this home is available) at $241,000 and you have 20% to put down and you will be utilizing a 30 yr. fixed at 6.5%Sales price = $241,000Down Payment = $48,000Loan Amount = $192,800Estimated Total Monthly House Payment Principle & Interest = $1, 218, 63Taxes = $255.00HOA Fees = $256.00Total = $1,729.6... 03/09/2008

Americans love their dogs and the people of Rancho Santa Margarita are no exception.  This Saturday, Feb. 23 from 1:00 – 4:00 pm Rancho Santa Margarita celebrates its 2nd Annual “Dog Day Afternoon”.    If you were there last year, you know what a great event SAMLARC put on and how much fun everyone had.  This year’s event looks to be even more exciting with Agility and Grooming Demonstrations, a Doggie Costume Contest, Dog Games, Pet Boutiques selling designer clothes, novelties, artificial turf for your yard, and everything in between.  There’ll be Doggie Day Care booths, Pet Sitters, Pet Massage and T-Touch  demonstrations.  And the RSM Library will have crafts and story telling for the kids.  Don’t have a dog?  Not to worry, there’ll be Non-profit Pet Rescue Groups with dogs of all ... 02/19/2008

 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.arrowheadw... 02/10/2008

2008 CALENDAR OF EVENTSFebruary - July 4thFebruary 23 Dog Day Afternoon March 15 Spring Fling May 10 Tea Party May 16 Lakeshore Wine and Cheese Tasting June 14 Fishing Derby June 20 Movie in the Park July 4 Star Spangled Spectacular[Back to top]VOLUNTEERING IN SAMLARCVolunteers are the key to any successful community. Residents who have a vested interest in community events and activities are the volunteers who drive SAMLARC's unique sense of community spirit. Volunteer involvement and participation includes the planning and implementation of community events, activities and recreation programs. Volunteers are becoming the key promoters in mobilizing the neighborhoods and villages of SAMLARC.If you are interested in volunteering at any of SAMLARC's events, or expanding SAMLARC's program... 02/09/2008

Orange County's real estate markets have slowed and some property valuesare down. Does a decline in a market value require a deduction in property taxes? The answer is that it depends on the Market Value and the Taxable Value.If you purchased in 2005, 2006 you are most likely qualify for a reduction, pleasefill out the request form below and I will e-mail you your comps needed for your appeal. Please not in the comment section that this is for a tax appeal, so I use the 3 lower comps for you. The pdf form blow must be submitted by March 30, 08with the comps to the county assessor.  For more information you can call the County Assessor Department at 714-834-2727 or go to their website.I hope this helpfull and that you remember me when you have friends, family or coworkers that need an ex... 02/06/2008

I've prepared to show homes and noticed several of the homes I've wanted to show to my clients had offers on them. Which gave my buyers a good feeling to go out and buy a home. Also I am just finishing an open house and I had excellent traffic all day long. I've hada total of 9 couples come through and many are actually in the market of purchasing within the next 30 to 90 days. I've specialize in Rancho Santa Margarita homes and the surrounding area. Since I've been selling in Rancho Santa Margarita for the last 20 years, please call or e-mail me with any of your questions about this beautiful area of Rancho Santa Margarita.   01/12/2008

Use our website www.petemitchell.com to easily search for Rancho Santa Margarita Homes for Sale, Rancho Santa Margarita Condos, Rancho Santa Margarita Townhomes, Estates, Rentals, Foreclosures, Fixers, and much more. You can modify your search to match you criteria. Just edit the price, location, or type in keywords like "foreclosure" or "fixers". Start your Rancho Santa Margarita CA Real Estate Search Now... 11/13/2007

Here is the Home Inventory for Rancho Santa Margarita. Each week we take a snapshot of the market. This Altos Research Real-time Market Profile(TM) is the most up-to date market information available. The Profile shows you not only pricing and market numbers, but also trends in those numbers.      THIS WEEKThe median single family home price in RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA this week is $664450. Inventory has been decreasing lately but the Market Action Index is falling also. With days-on-market climbing, these are relatively negative implications for the market.PRICEAgain this week we see a downward notch for prices. Prices continue to pull back from the market's highs. The Market Action Index is a good leading indicator for the durability of this trend. SUPPLY AND DEMANDLocal conditions are ... 10/17/2007

Here is the most Up To Date Market Trends for Rancho Santa Margarita. Each week we take a snapshot of the market. This Altos Research Real-time Market Profile(TM) is the most up-to date market information available. The Profile shows you not only pricing and market numbers, but also trends in those numbers.   THIS WEEKThe median single family home price in RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA this week is $687000.Inventory has been decreasing lately but the Market Action Index is falling also. With days-on-market climbing, these are relatively negative implications for the market.PRICEThe market appears to be hovering around this plateau. Look for a persistent change in the Market Action Index before we see prices deviate significantly from here.SUPPLY AND DEMANDLocal conditions are currently quite s... 10/03/2007

California Tesoro is a 194-unit Rancho Santa Margarita housing development built by Kaufman Broad in 1995-1996. There are three models, all of which have 2 car garages:El Diamante: 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathrooms, 1306 square feetLa Jolla: 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathrooms, 1573 square feetDel Oro: 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathrooms, 1801 square feetCalifornia Tesoro is conveniently located in close proximity to Arroyo Vista Park and Arroyo Vista School.*** Here is an MLS Market Snapshot of homes currently on the market, homes that are in escrow or with sales pending, and homes that have sold in the past three months *** As of 9/02/2007 there are currently three homes listed for sale in California Tesoro (SoCal MLS). This does not include For Sale By Owner transactions not listed in the MLS.Four homes have sold ... 09/03/2007

Bring your family and friends to The City of Rancho Santa Margarita and Pro Sport Physical Therapy's 3rd Annual Healthy Community Expo 5k Fun Run/Walk and the Healthy Kids Fun Run on Labor Day, September 3rd. The event will take place at the Civic Plaza, 22112 El Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita, from 7:30-11:00 a.m. are the perfect way to end summer and start fall on a healthy note.After the race, participants are invited to visit the Healthy Community Expo. The purpose of the expo is to bring community members together to learn about healthy living and to acquaint them with the various health and fitness services available in Rancho Santa Margarita.Also, The Bell Tower Foundation will sponsor a Pancake Breakfast from 7-10 am. Each ticket purchase will include pancakes, sausage, fruit and... 08/21/2007

What a beautiful day it was yesterday in Rancho Santa Margarita.  After attending a Chamber of Commerce Ribbon cutting, I thought I'd swing by the beach club to see what it looks like on a sunny summer Friday afternoon.There were lots of folks taking advantage of the warm sun and cool water of Lake Santa Margarita.  The lake is a man-made lake that is great for boating and fishing.  At the East end of the lake the builders installed a wonderful beach club.  The waters of the beach club are separated from the boating and fishing area by a dike.  So only water that has been treated can enter the swimming area.  The club has a community room for parties, a snack bar, paddle boat rentals, activity rooms where multiple classes are held for children and adults.  All of this is wonderful, but ... 07/07/2007

I was first introduced to Cosmo's great food at a Chamber of Commerce Mixer I attended a few months ago.   As I drove to Las Flores for a Chamber Corporate Board Meeting my hunger alarm went off.  So, I turned into a little shopping center near the chamber offices and Voila!  There it was, the familiar name "Cosmo's". It was nice and cool inside and gave great respite to the warmest part of the day as the thremometer registered a toasty 88o.  I was immediately greeted by a friendly waiter who showed me to my table.  There were a couple families there enjoying a late lunch as well.  After a quick look at their extensive menu, I decided on the lasagna.  Being a good little Italian girl, I've had good lasagna...this was great lasagna!  In looking at their website, I understand why.  Their ... 06/24/2007

What a great way to spend the afternoon in Rancho Santa Margarita then to sit and relax at Central Park and enjoy some music. Summer 2007 is on tap to be one of the best seasons yet, so bring the blankets, picnic baskets and of course some friends to enjoy the music.Central Park is located at 30842 La Miranda in Ranch Santa Margarita, California. Concerts are scheduled for Sunday evenings between 6:00-8:00pm.  Following are the entertainers scheduled to perform:July 8 - Stone Soul (Motown)July 15- Tommy Tassi & The Authentic (50's & 60's)July 22 - The Answer (Classic Rock)July 29 - The Silverado's (Country/Rock/Pop)August 5 - Instant ReplayAugust 12 - Hot August Night Tribute to Neil DiamondThe concert series is presented by The City of Rancho Santa Margarita, SAMLARC and The Bell Tower... 06/02/2007

Century 21 Superstars is pleased to announce that Kelly Turbeville has joined it's firm as a sales associate.  She will specialize in residential property sales in the South Orange County, California."We are thrilled to have Kelly join our team" said Phil Romero.  "It's an exciting time to be with Century 21 system as we increase our market presence in Southern California."Kelly choose Century 21 Superstars due to its strong brand, market presence and location to her clients.  She has been a Realtor for four years, using her skills in customer service, marketing and working with single professionals and their real estate needs, all while giving back to the community through her commitment to the community services division of the Orange County YMCA.  Kelly is involved with the Foster Me... 05/23/2007

The Lyon Monterrey Estates in Rancho Santa Margarita is a private gated community that boasts curb appeal and cul-de-sac streets.  The neighborhood is comprised of ninety-nine upscale single family homes offering four to six bedrooms and modern spacious floor plans.  Great attention to architectural detail is evident throughout the tract.The community, built by William Lyon between 2000 and 2001, is located off Avenida de Las Banderas at Santa Nella, between Arroyo Vista and Empresa.  The homes are conveniently located within walking distance of Arroyo Vista School, and the Arroyo Vista Park and Community Pool.  Lyon Monterrey is a family-friendly community and children of all ages can be seen playing throughout the neighborhood.Lyon Monterrey has private association dues of approximate... 04/21/2007

Rancho Santa Margarita City-wide Clean up By John Alesi, Rancho Santa Margarita REALTOR® Rancho Santa Margarita CA Real Estate In cooperation with CR&R Waste & Recycling Services, the City of Rancho Santa Margarita will conduct a city-wide clean up day for residents who subscribe to curbside collection services.  Pick up is scheduled for the week of April 23-27, 2007.  Items for collection can be up to 6 feet in length, no more than 75 pounds and manageable by a two-person crew.  Place items for collection at the curb of your residence by 7am on the day of your regular service. Items can include furniture, appliances and yard waste but not tires, construction, materials, chemicals, paint and other items.  Check the RSM City website for complete details.  For additional information, cal... 03/31/2007

THE VIEW:  Located at the top of the hill in the Melinda Heights area of Rancho Santa Margarita, Altisima Park offers a great place to play with extraordinary views. Click here for a map of Altisima Park.TOT LOT:  The Tot Lot is a definite hit with the kids.  At just about any given time the Tot Lot is in use. It's a great place for the little ones to make new friends and to get in some serious play time.BASEBALL FIELDS:  Altisima Park has two very well maintained baseball fields, complete with above ground dugouts.  These fields are two of several fields used by Rancho Santa Margarita Little League.SOCCER FIELDS:  The wide open grassy area provides plenty of space for fun and games.  This is one of 17 locations used by AYSO Region 630 for youth soccer practices and games. Don't forget ... 03/23/2007