I have noticed through the years that when family, friends or acquaintances discover that you practice the business of real estate, there seems to be instantaneous conversation and interest. There is always something to talk about; whether it is the mortgage rates, the economy’s effect on the real estate market, the lack of or over supply of properties, the increase, or as in the past few years, the decline in property values, whatever the issue, real estate has, is and most likely will always be a point of extreme interest. Let’s face it; home ownership is undoubtedly the biggest investment to be made in one’s lifetime! Continue reading “Proposition 60 — Do I Qualify?” »
This is a fast-paced world we live in. It often seems as if just when you’ve mastered the latest toy, tool, or transition — boom! — there’s something newer, shinier, and better. [Or so they say!]. We’re experienced professional real estate agents and brokers, and although not all of us may be social media wizards, we are perfectly aware of its impact and importance in today’s marketing world. So with the help of our younger net-savvy agents and crack marketing team, Village Properties has established a well orchestrated comprehensive social media presence, with all its myriad components working relentlessly towards one goal; helping you. 
The Santa Ynez Valley is experiencing a surge in real estate sales for 2012. So far, from January 1 to May 31, 2012, we have placed 207 properties in escrow in the Santa Ynez Valley. In 2011, a total of 194 properties closed escrow. We are on a record pace for sales and could double the number of sales in 2012 as compared to 2011 given the current number of properties in escrow.
About 100 people gathered last Tuesday morning at the Santa Barbara Courthouse to celebrate the sounds and sights of landmark renovations of the Courthouse Clock and Spirit of the Ocean fountain.
The sun is not only shining on Santa Barbara’s beautiful beaches and foothills but also the local real estate market. Simply put, sales are up strongly and inventory is down. Months of inventory for Santa Barbara’s South Coast, from Carpinteria to Goleta, is at a jaw-dropping 2.6 months; 2.8 months for houses and PUDs and 2.3 months for condos. (PUD stands for “Planned Unit Development,” free-standing homes in a housing association.)