San Diego Real Estate Voice

Photography - Miniature Horned Owl, Native To San Diego

Thu, 16 May 2013 23:12:49 -0700

Miniature Horned Owl, Native To San Diego

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William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

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Three of the Worlds Largest 100 Yachts in Port In San Diego

Wed, 15 May 2013 21:58:29 -0700

Three of the Worlds Largest 100 Yachts in Port In San Diego

I had the good fortune to see 3 of the worlds top yachts and they were all three in port in San Diego today. I had to be down in the Marina area today and to see these amazing ships was a triple bonus. The smallest of the three pictured below is the Lady Christine. Click on link and check out the Interior Photos.

This ship is so beautiful and I discovered that it has a staff of 18. The stainless steel supports and staircase is what really attracted me to dream that if I were rich, this is exactly the one I liked best. And it was the smallest of the 3 in port. The Heliport on top made it really extra special.

We get a lot of ships that visit from other world ports but to have 3 of the 100 largest in the world on one day, well, it just doesn't get any better. San Diego is a special destination and I appreciate that the owners and I have the same taste even if our budgets are a little different.

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Mothers Day Floral Tribute

Sun, 12 May 2013 19:13:49 -0700

Happy Mothers Day

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

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I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
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William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

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Sunday Photo - The American Kestrel

Sun, 12 May 2013 09:25:40 -0700

This the second bird that was on display yesterday at the Cabrillo National Monument. I have taken many view photos there but yesterday I had an opportunity to be very close up to some of our native beautiful birds of prey. I can't recall ever having seem this little stunner, the American Kestrel. It is not very large and unless you see it in a tree somewhere, you wouldn't likely recognize it in flight unless you were quite familiar with it.

Of all the different birds on display there, while all were strikingly beautiful, this little guy really caught my eye and perhaps the eye of the camera. Check this beauty out.

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San Diego Bird Protection Society - Photography

Sat, 11 May 2013 22:06:33 -0700

I was out showing off our Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma this afternoon and there were 5 beautiful birds on display that were saved by our Bird Protection Society. I have wanted to show a barn owl like the one that I saved when it was chased by many black crows into my Christmas net lights. This bird was so beautiful and I always regretted not having a photo to show what it was like.

I was able to retrieve the bird from the Christmas lights and I wrapped it a towel and held it until it was stable and was able to protect it from the Crows. When you see this face up close and personal, you would have to love it. I spent some time with this bird today and it had been saved when it was very young and has been imprinted to where it can not be released back into the wild and is now a pet. The owl was being held when I took this and I was able to get very close up for some beautiful detail.

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They Work Hard for Their Honey

Tue, 07 May 2013 17:54:43 -0700

They Work Hard for Their Honey

I have a large flowering hedge that is in bloom and I have been observing a mass of bees working their little wings off collecting the pollen. I have been right up close and they don't seem to be bothered by me and seeing them collect the pollen and then deposit it on their legs is really facinating.

We all know they do it but have you ever watched them up close. I will take the camera out in a bit and see if can catch one in action. I have no idea where they travel to to deposit all the pollen to make the honey but I am sure glad I have this hedge to help them out.

The older I become, the more facinated I am by natures way of providing and keeping life in balance. It knows its own seasons and what's expected and nature just delivers.

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San Diego Embarcadero Photo On Display

Sun, 05 May 2013 23:52:15 -0700

San Diego Embarcadero Photo On Display

One of the pleasures of Photography is to share images and experiences that please others. While I haven't framed more than a couple pieces that I gave away, it is pleasing to discover ways to share the photos other than in an online format.

Using a simple matte and Lucite frame allows the photos to be shown in ways that add a sense of uniqueness and a quality look to the prints.

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

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I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
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William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

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It's A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:30:48 -0700

It's A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

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I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
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William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

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La Jolla Coastal Resident Taking Time to Smell The Flowers

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:48:14 -0700

La Jolla Coastal Resident Taking Time to Smell The Flowers

Last evening, the sunset was outrageous. Regretfully I was leaving a listing as I saw it and it was too late to get there. So I had time late today and thought I might get a repeat show.

It was apparent when I got there that there was no clouds but just overcast haze, no sunset was going to be showing much today. While I was waiting to see if there was going anything work taking photos of, I was entertained twice. Right below where I was standing in my sheltered space where I take photos, was Miss California being photographed with her state crown, Miss California Banner and the California State flag. Yes I took a few photos but I can't show them online for reasons many of you will understand. I didn't ask for or receive a model release and these were not casual photos because she was modeling for her photographer.

Well, all is not lost. I titled this, a La Jolla coastal resident taking time to smell the flowers and I was able to get some really neat photos of this resident.

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Two Tax Benefits that Expired in 2011 Revived in 2013

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 20:07:04 -0800

The Fiscal Cliff deal had a couple more benefits for property owners than previously expected.

2 Key Homeowners Benefits.

1. Mortgage Insurance Premiums or guarantee fees for FHA, VA, Fannie or Freddie or A Rural Housing Loan can once again be written off if your household income does not exceed $110,000.

2.The Home Energy Improvement Tax Credit of $500 was revived for energy renovations done in 2012 and if doing them in 2013. This might include quite a number of energy efficiency items like new windows, doors, roofing materials etc.

For the underwater homeowners, the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act was re-authorized at the Federal Level. States that have state income tax, may or may not be following this renewed act at the state level. CA has a bill moving through the legislative process but as of now, it is still in the process and if you are closing a short sale prior to it's passage, you will need to find out if the bill will be retroactive to Jan 1st, 2013.

High Income Sellers with an adjusted gross income over $250,000 as an individual or $300,000 joint filers, needs to check with their financial advisers as to what the new law provides for limiting some mortgage Interest, changes in capital gains tax and other write offs previously granted for 2012.

Other changes may be in the works but until they become law, the discussions are premature at this time.

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,
Give me a call or visit my San Diego Real Estate website and
Sign up for Listing alerts for your favorite San Diego
Home and Condominium Property Searches.

I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
throughout the coast and inland areas of San Diego.

William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

Need Help and Guidelines for Buying or Selling a Home ?
Search for Homes and Condominiums in San Diego County.

" Voice of San Diego Real Estate Blog "

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If Life Was Fair, Bees Would Be Allergic to Pollen

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 19:58:17 -0700

If Life Was Fair, Bees Would Be Allergic to Pollen

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

Give me a call or visit my San Diego Real Estate website and
Sign up for Listing alerts for your favorite San Diego
Home and Condominium Property Searches.

I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
throughout the coast and inland areas of San Diego.

William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

Need Help and Guidelines for Buying or Selling a Home ?
Search for Homes and Condominiums in San Diego County.
" Voice of San Diego Real Estate Blog "

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What's Happening in San Diego April 2013

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 18:35:00 -0700

April is the first full month of Spring and the weather inspires that most people get out and do things. San Diego county has many events going on through the weekends in April to inspire these activities even further.

Going to coast is good anytime, visiting Balboa Park, the Zoo or the Safari Wild animal park is as well. The planned events for April are special in that most everything that is taking place is outside in the beautiful San Diego sunshine. Cool breezes and the warming sun combine for a refreshing and wonderful day in the fresh air.

The Del Mar Spring Home Improvement Show

This is San Diego's largest home show of the year located at the Del Mar Fairgrounds with over 450 exhibitors showcasing products and services to improve our homes. This is a 3 day show running April 12th through April 14th from 10:00 to 6:00 daily. I am personally inspired every time I go to this show.

San Marcos Swing into Spring Festival

Come and taste the delicious foods and deserts, live entertainment, arts and craft show and so much more. This festival is all about family and the little ones are not forgotten. There are kiddie and carousel rides to make it entertaining for the whole family. Sunday April 14th from 9:00 to 5:00PM

Lakeside Western Days Rodeo and Parade

This annual event will held at the Rodeo Grounds in Lakeside. Seven major events over the 3 days of rodeo competition will include, Bareback Bronco Riding, Saddle Back Bronco Riding,Tie down roping,Team roping,Steer Wrestling,Bull Riding and Barrel and Stick Horse racing.

Dig out those dusty cowboy boots and western apparel and come on out for a great time. Yea Haw! The Rodeo begins Friday April 19th through Sunday April 21st , 10:00 to 5:00 Daily

Fall Brook Avocado Festival

The rural community of Fallbrook is known world wide for it abundant avocados. There is an "Everything Avocado Shopping" area and this street fair like event covers the entire Main Street of Fallbrook. Ever tried Avocado Ice Cream? Amazing! Sunday April 21st from 10:00 to 5:00PM

Earth Fair 2013

EarthFair is the largest environmental festival in the US. The fair will take place at Balboa Park on April 21st from 10:00 to 5:00 PM
The festival will showcase a wide array of causes, goods and services pertaining to our environment and quality of life. It is also a good excuse to come to the park, learn ways to protect our environment and have a good time while there.

Little Italy Art Fest

I have attended this event every year and this weekend long extravaganza of the arts will showcase visual and the performing arts, this being one of the largest shows of its kind in San Diego during the year. This is not to be missed. The Shop keepers and restaurants in the heart of Little Italy make doubly sure the Pizza is hot and at affordable prices. Nothing like it. April 27th and 28th from 11:00 to 6:00 daily. Aside from all the great art and entertainment, it is like a giant neighborhood party, italian style. Great fun for the whole family.
Moma Mia, Dat's a nice!

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

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Home and Condominium Property Searches.

I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
throughout the coast and inland areas of San Diego.

William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

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Why Do We Need Title Insurance - Let Me Count The Whys

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 19:10:55 -0700

In a sentence, Title Insurance assures that the "Home You Call Your Own", actually is.

Procuring Title Insurance for Buyers and Lenders is much more complex than it may sound. When a title Company sends out a Preliminary Title Policy to the Buyer for review, it is basically a statement that says, excluding any conditions known and stated, including encumbrances and various liens tied to the property, the property is insurable and upon close, the title company will issue the title policy.

During the title search and examination of the title history, there are potential title defects that are found on average in one in three properties that need to be cured. And they are cured as a matter of course. In the United states we have Land Records which established the property registration system. The curative or corrective actions done by the title companies helps to insure the integrity of that system.

Some of the enumerated risks that a title policy protects against are, defective deeds, boundary disputes, forgery, fraud, tax judgments, pending bankruptcy, utility and right of way easements, water and sewer assessments, even such things as child support liens, divorce, undisclosed or missing heirs and old mortgages.

There are two types of policies involved in a home purchase. One is the homeowners policy that protects the new Home Buyers. If there is going to be a loan on the property, the second type of policy comes into play. That would be the Lenders policy. The homeowners policy protects the new Buyer and for as long as they own the property. In some families, that can be many decades. You pay once and that's it. The Lenders policy protects the lender that their mortgage liens are valid.

When a homeowner sets out to do a refinance of the property, that protected lenders lien becomes invalid and a new policy has to be drawn because the lien amount and conditions may have changed.

Other types of insurance pays off after you have a loss. Title insurance is a bit different in that helps you and the lender, if there is one, to prevent a loss.

Many buying new homes ask why they need title insurance since the home is new and no one has lived their before. There are title risks created from the history of ownership as well as new liens that might have been caused by the Builder or Developer. These might include sub-contractor liens, tax liens, delinquent loans for purchasing the land or the new construction.

It becomes clear that all buyers and homeowners need this insurance. It will give you peace of mind and answer the question, "Is the Home You Call Your Own, Actually Yours?". Having a title policy assures that the answer to that question is, Yes.

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Rainy Days and Mondays Make Him Smile

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 16:06:42 -0700

Rainy Days and Mondays Make Him Smile

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

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Sign up for Listing alerts for your favorite San Diego
Home and Condominium Property Searches.

I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
throughout the coast and inland areas of San Diego.

William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

Need Help and Guidelines for Buying or Selling a Home ?
Search for Homes and Condominiums in San Diego County.
" Voice of San Diego Real Estate Blog "

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Airplanes Have Crews, Yachts Have Crews, Building Contractors Have Crews but..........

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:11:31 -0700

Airplanes Have Crews, Yachts Have Crews, Building Contractors Have Crews but..........

This weekend San Diego will have hundreds of crews competing in the San Diego Crew Classic. Mission Bay will be crowded with spectators of all ages as over 100 races take place in the 40th Annual Crew Classic. This crew classic is one of the premier events, known world wide.

Some of the well known Collegiate Crews attending will be coming from Washington, Penn, Princeton, University of Virginia,CAL, UCSD, USC and various local crews from San Diego. There will also be high schools participating as well as races for senior crews. Races start at 7:20AM sharp and there is plenty of parking all around Mission Bay. Follow the signs. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 day of events.

If you are Buying, Selling or Relocating to San Diego and need help from a professional REALTOR®,

Give me a call or visit my San Diego Real Estate website and
Sign up for Listing alerts for your favorite San Diego
Home and Condominium Property Searches.

I specialize in Single Family Homes and Condominiums
throughout the coast and inland areas of San Diego.

William Johnson, Certified Residential Specialist

Need Help and Guidelines for Buying or Selling a Home ?
Search for Homes and Condominiums in San Diego County.
" Voice of San Diego Real Estate Blog "

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