Our Featured Property of the Week!

This rare single story nestled in Lynnmere Estates is one of a kind! This property is situated so that you have complete privacy which allows you to overlook the nature trails and park. This is truly a home for entertaining thanks to the sun filled rooms or the private majestic backyard. The house features newly remodeled baths, a large kitchen with a center island, and an eat in breakfast room which overlooks the natural surroundings. 

This listing is featured courtesy of Pam McWaid, Prudential California Realty.

To view more Real Estate for sale in Ventura County please visit www.prucalhomes.com or call (805) 496-0555

6 Reasons To Hurry Up and Buy A Home Before The End Of The Year!

1. Avoid the risk of rising rates: Mortgage interest rates are up 1 to 2 percent over this time last year. According to Mortgage Bankers Association they anticipate that mortgage rates will rise to about 5 percent in 2014. The best thing to do is if you buy now and the rates drop, you can always refinance; but on the other hand, if you wait and the rates rise you are stuck at that rate.
2. New Year, new lending rules: As January 1 approaches, lending rules may change and it can be harder to get a loan. The rules of 2014 will allow you to borrow less, at your same level of income. In 2013, the current mortgage rules allow for a 45 percent total debt to income ratio (DTI); whereas in 2014, the DTI will go down to 43 percent.
3. Easier Financing: If you’re waiting for home prices to decrease, don’t. The mortgage changes in 2014 could make it harder to get financing. If you’re waiting for home prices to drop, you could miss your window to secure a mortgage entirely. Plus economists believe home prices will increase by at least 6% nationwide.
4. Lower sales could mean higher inventory: This year, housing sales have been declining since September so inventory has finally increased. Many buyers wait to make purchases until after the busy holiday season, but you will have more options to choose from in your home search.
5. Maximize tax deductions: If you buy before the end of the year, you can begin deducting interest and building equity immediately. Some closing costs and points are tax deductible in the year you buy a home. If you choose to buy now, it allows you to include them on your 2013 tax return.
6. It’s not too late - We can do it! Prudential California Realty’s in-house escrow company, Affirmative Escrow is able to close your escrow by the end of the year – and having them on your team with make for a smooth transaction. So you can start enjoying the benefits of homeowership!

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Ventura County, please visit www.prucalhomes.com to search for properties and find an agent!

Prudential California Realty Kicks Off Annual Toys For Tots Program!

This holiday season, the sales professionals of Prudential California Realty are excited to give back to the community by partnering with the Conejo Simi Moorpark Association of Realtors in support of the U.S Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program.  The Mission of the program is to deliver a new toy at Christmas that gives a message of hope to less fortunate children.


The program has already proven to be a huge success in the community with generous donations by many local residents and businesses.  


Broker/Owner Bob Majorino of Prudential California Realty said, "Prudential considers itself a family-oriented organization.  Collecting donations for the Toys for Tots Program seems like a natural extension of what we try to do for our customers.  Toys For Tots is an incredible organization that does outstanding work for children throughout our community, and we are proud to support the organization.”


Prudential California Realty’s five offices in Ventura County have set up boxes to assist with the collection of unwrapped toys. These boxes will be available for donations from the public until pick up on December 14^th. To make a contribution to this wonderful, heartwarming cause, please visit www.prucalhomes.com to find the Prudential location nearest you.

Support The Annual Rishko Memorial Turkey Bowl

The seventh annual Shawn Rishko Memorial Turkey Bowl will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Thurs., Nov. 28, at the Oak Park High School football field,899 N. Kanan Road, Oak Park.

The Turkey Bowl is a community event in which former athletes from Oak Park High compete with each other in a flag football tournament. A trophy in memory of Shawn Rishko will be awarded to the top team.

Shawn, a 2002 OPHS graduate, played in the Turkey Bowl until he lost his life to depression at age 22.  His mother, Norine, works at Prudential California Realty as a transaction coordinator, and has rallied the agents together in support of the organization.  Throughout Prudential California Realty's 5 Ventura County offices, you will find raffle tickets for sale, and items for donation to the cause.

Norine Rishko, center, with founding Turkey Bowl members Monte McNair and Matt Koller (right) 

This event will benefit the Depression Bipolar Support Alliance Conejo Valley. DBSA has support meetings for teens and young adults from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at The Church of Epiphany, Room 6, Mitchel Hall, 5450 Churchwood Drive, Oak Park.

For meeting details, call Rachel Comer at (818) 601-7767 or email dbsaconejovalley@gmail.com.

Prudential California Realty evaluating name change option

Prudential California Realty could eventually become a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices affiliate, a switch that could change the face of real estate in Ventura County.

For now, the company’s five Ventura County offices owned by Bob Majorino will continue to operate under the Prudential California Realty brand.  “We are very proud of the Prudential name, and have loved the advantage of a 98% brand name recognition among consumers,” Majorino says.

Prudential affiliates that meet a production criteria have the option to join the Berkshire Hathaway franchise, according to Prudential California Realty Broker/Owner Bob Majorino.  With a decade left on his Prudential franchise, Majorino is comfortable with his position of not being pressured to make the conversion, giving the company time to watch how the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand evolves. 

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is the new real estate brokerage network operated by Irvine, Calif.-based HSF Affiliates LLC. It’s among the few organizations entrusted to use the name of its parent company, Berkshire Hathaway Inc., the conglomerate controlled by Omaha billionaire Warren Buffett.

Besides Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, HSF operates the Prudential Real Estate and Real Living Real Estate franchise networks. But Prudential franchises are not being renewed as they expire, Majorino says.

“To think about the opportunity to get on that ship (one with Buffett behind it) looks more than promising.  It could be an exciting venture for us,” Majorino says.  He expects to have more clarity about his office’s direction in the upcoming months.  “For now, it is business as usual as we evaluate all our options.”

It's Pumpkin Season

Check out these great tips for carving your Pumpkin!

Pumpkin Carving Tools

A serrated knife works well for creating a hole in the pumpkin. It's preferable to carve the hole in the bottom of the pumpkin to cut off any bumps so the pumpkin will sit level. It's also much easier to place the pumpkin over a light source. A large metal spoon or ice-cream scoop is great for removing pumpkin seeds. Small paring knives are great for carving designs into the pumpkin. Pumpkin-carving kits, made specifically for kids or adults, are another good source.

Preserving a carved pumpkin

Mold and dehydration are the two main contributors to pumpkin rot. Prevent both by covering the carved areas and interior of pumpkin with petroleum jelly. This will keep the pumpkin from drying out and will slow the growth of mold. Another option is to add a small amount of bleach to a spray bottle filled with water. Spray the pumpkin daily with the bleach mixture; the bleach fights mold while the water keeps the pumpkin from drying out too quickly. A cut pumpkin will only last for a few days to a week, so it's best to cut your pumpkin no earlier than a few days before your festivities.

Illuminating the pumpkin

The candle-free options are nearly endless for showcasing your pumpkin designs. Check stores for color-changing strobe lights, battery-operated tea lights and rainbow LEDs that are made specifically for pumpkins. Votive or pillar candles, placed on a plate that is large enough to catch any drips, are also an excellent option. A good tip when illuminating a pumpkin with a candle is to cut a small hole in the top of the pumpkin, like a chimney, allowing the heat to escape. Speaking of safety, a general reminder: Always exercise due caution whenever fire is involved.

Remember - The Real Estate Market Doesn't Have To Be Scary!
In the past few years, many homeowners who have considered moving felt the market was too uncertain. As a real estate professional, I’m thrilled to report a positive outlook for those who are thinking about buying or selling.  Contact your Ventura County Prudential California Real Estate Specialist today to learn about local market conditions or for a FREE no-obligation real estate consultation. Visit www.prucalhomes.com to contact your agent today.

Houzz Lets You Design Your Dream Home

Houzz is both a great app and website!  Get Inspired by photos of perfectly designed rooms, you can find a local design or remodeling professional, or get advice and decorating tips - many of the products you see will even provide you with direct links to buy them online.  Houzz allows you to assemble and organize your ideas and photos into idea books, that can be categorized into rooms.  

For more information on getting the home of your dreams, please visit www.prucalhomes.com today to search for homes and find a Ventura County Real Estate professional.

Making the Most of Small Kitchens

Many people complain about small kitchens but tiny spaces aren't always to be dreaded. If you're selling your home and your kitchen is, well, compact, know that you can find ways to achieve big appeal with a little creativity.

Bring in the light. Sometimes small kitchens can be dark, making them feel even smaller. But if you remove the curtains from any windows in your small kitchen, it'll let light in and open up the area. Instead of curtains, you can use small blinds that are recessed inside the frame of the window. These are easy to clean and still provide some privacy even when the blinds are open.

De-Clutter the counter tops and the walls. Most people have a tendency to let kitchen clutter build up on the counter tops and walls. Take the appliances and either store them in the kitchen cabinets or, if there isn't enough room, pack them up. You're moving soon, anyway. Clearing off photos and miscellaneous papers that are stuck on your refrigerator door or kitchen walls will also help make your kitchen look bigger. The same goes for hanging pot racks from the ceiling. Be sure to leave some open wall space and to use storage units that aren't completely solid. The open units, if the shelves aren't stuffed, will give a less closed-in feeling.


Opt for lighter and brighter wall color. Going with lighter colors tends to open up a room. Light and bright colors are also very inviting and friendly, making them a perfect choice for the kitchen. You can use a darker accent trim to create some contrast. You can also use decorations including floral arrangements or even some colorful kitchen appliances to add spice to the kitchen.

Wall-mounted appliances and reduced counter-top depth. Wall-mounted or under-the-cabinets-mounted appliances can save valuable kitchen counter-top space. You might even have a way to wall-mount your kitchen faucet. In one small home design, the faucet was mounted to the wall, creating a very distinctive look. The counter-top was a standard 24 inches deep but elsewhere the counter-top was reduced just slightly down to 21 inches–very subtle and hardly noticeable but it allowed more floor space in a tiny kitchen.  
From the Realty Times Feature Article by Phoebe Chongchua

Please contact your agent for other helpful tips on keeping your home in buyer-ready condition.  With five offices throughout Ventura County, Prudential California Realty is independently owned and operated. Please visit www.prucalhomes.com to find an agent.

Prudential Ventura County Ranks Highest in Customer Satisfaction

Prudential Agents Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Care to know what it takes to receive a lifetime membership into the largest trade association in the country? Start by dedicating everything you've got to your industry, like Carole Hernandez,  with Prudential California Realty's Camarillo office who was recently awarded a lifetime membership to both the National Association of REALTORS^® and the California Association of REALTORS^®. 

The longtime broker said that during her 40 years—and counting—helping clients buy and sell homes, there's been little distinction between real estate and real life. "We put all of ourselves into our business," she said. "We don't really separate the professional from the personal."

Since 1971, Hernandez and her husband, Manny Hernandez, have been a dynamic and successful real estate team, even receiving Prudential Real Estate's prestigious "Legend" award in 2007. But of all her accomplishments and accolades, Hernandez is most proud to represent an industry that matters. "It's very personal to be involved in someone's finances and in their hopes and dreams," she said. "A home is probably the most important thing in someone's life and finding the right one is the most rewarding feeling of all."

To Contact Carole or Manny, or for any Ventura County Real Estate needs, please visit our website at www.prucalhomes.com 

Tips To Sell Your Home Quickly

What's the quickest way to get a home sold?  Well, there is the obvious answer of listing it with a Prudential California Realty sales professional. But aside from that, here are some other tips to help you if you are considering making a move... 

1. Price your house correctly: Working with your agent, choose a price that is similar to the homes that have sold within the last 6 months. Let your agent establish a price he or she feels will make your house the buzz of the neighborhood. The amount may not be what you had envisioned—remember, the market has changed substantially over the last five years—yet when priced slightly below comparable sales you should attract serious buyers.

   

2. Be flexible, compromise: Know your basement price and don’t be offended by offers within those parameters. Consider negotiating housewares and fixtures that may appeal to prospective buyers, such as those expensive new drapes you just installed, the dining-room chandelier or that slick, washer-drier combo. Conduct a complete inventory of household features to determine what you can and can’t live without.  

3. Remove the clutter from your home: This must be done regardless of time frame. Throw away anything you won’t be taking with you and pack in storage items that you won’t miss during the sale process. Consider renting a storage pod that can be picked up and eventually moved to your new home.

4. Offer incentives: One popular incentive for a fast closing is to share or pay for your buyer’s closing costs. You may also offer higher commissions for a fast sale, which may lead to even more showings.

5. Rent to buy: If there’s interest in your home but no one is willing to step up to meet your timeline, offer prospective buyers the chance to rent your property with the right to buy it in six months or a year. Both parties win, as buyers can experience the home and neighborhood firsthand while you transition with cash flow to cover expenses.

If you are in a rush to get your home sold, hurry and contact your Ventura County Real Estate Specialist at Prudential California Realty:  www.prucalhomes.com or 888-352-1652

Confidence is Up - Americans are on the move

The national media finally has it right - Housing markets are heating up across the country, and Ventura County is no exception.  As of June, Home prices were up 23% across the county - we have also seen a dramatic decrease in distressed property sales.  These stats mean that more people are seeing equity in their existing homes again.  More Americans are on the move, whether first time buyers, downsizing, upsizing, or relocating - check out this great video from the National Association of Realtors, or contact your Prudential California Realty agent today at www.prucalhomes.com

Prudential Does It Again!!

Prudential California Realty Collecting Donations For The 2013 Backpack Challenge!

Prudential California Realty is participating in the 2013 Backpack Challenge. All donations will be given to the Childrens Services Auxiliary of Ventura County, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children and teens displaced from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment.  Items needed include:

Infant and Toddler clothing

Baby wipes

lotion

toothpaste & Toothbrushes

pajamas

socks

shampoo & Conditioner

Journals

pens & pencils

markers

notebooks

folders

paper

rulers

crayons

disposable cameras

first aid kits

deodorant

light blankets

Gift cards

Kleenex

toilet paper

Prudential California Realty is accepting donations at all 5 Ventura County locations, visit www.prucalhomes.com for contact and location information.

Mortgage Rates Rising - Still An AMAZING Time To Buy A Home

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate posted its largest weekly percentage increase in more than 25 years, according to mortgage-finance company Freddie Mac

The increase brings the 30-year fixed rate to its highest in nearly two years. However, housing affordability still remains high.  Mortgage interest rates are hovering in the 3-5% range - still very impressive compared to years previous!

If you are considering buying or selling a home, contact one of the fine sales professionals at Prudential California Realty at www.prucalhomes.com, or call 805-496-0555.

How To Display An American Flag

Summer in So Cal is perfect - Great weather, outdoor activities, and extra daylight!  Along with summer we get to enjoy patriotic holidays like Memorial Day, Flag Day, and Independence Day, which celebrate and honor our country.  One of the best ways to show your country support and appreciation is to display an American Flag - Here are some basic tips on flag etiquette and how to properly display a flag at your home!

STANDARDS of RESPECT

The Flag Code, which formalizes and unifies the traditional ways in which we give respect to the flag, also contains specific instructions on how the flag is not to be used. They are:

• The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing. It is flown upside down only as a distress signal.
• The flag should not be used as a drapery, or for covering a speakers desk, draping a platform, or for any decoration in general. Bunting of blue, white and red stripes is available for these purposes. The blue stripe of the bunting should be on the top.
• The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose. It should not be embroidered, printed or otherwise impressed on such articles as cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, boxes, or anything intended to be discarded after temporary use. Advertising signs should not be attached to the staff or halyard
• The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform, except that a flag patch may be used on the uniform of military personnel, fireman, policeman and members of patriotic organizations.
• The flag should never have placed on it, or attached to it, any mark, insignia, letter, word, number, figure, or drawing of any kind.
• The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.

When the flag is lowered, no part of it should touch the ground or any other object; it should be received by waiting hands and arms. To store the flag it should be folded neatly and ceremoniously.

The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.

When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner.

Displaying the Flag Outdoors

When the flag is displayed from a staff projecting from a window, balcony, or a building, the union should be at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half staff.

When it is displayed from the same flagpole with another flag - of a state, community, society or Scout unit - the flag of the United States must always be at the top except that the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for Navy personnel when conducted by a Naval chaplain on a ship at sea.

When the flag is displayed over a street, it should be hung vertically, with the union to the north or east. If the flag is suspended over a sidewalk, the flag's union should be farthest from the building.

When flown with flags of states, communities, or societies on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor - to its own right.
..The other flags may be smaller but none may be larger.
..No other flag ever should be placed above it.
..The flag of the United States is always the first flag raised and the last to be lowered.

When flown with the national banner of other countries, each flag must be displayed from a separate pole of the same height. Each flag should be the same size. They should be raised and lowered simultaneously. The flag of one nation may not be displayed above that of another nation.

Raising and Lowering the Flag

The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously. Ordinarily it should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset. It should be illuminated if displayed at night.
The flag of the United States of America is saluted as it is hoisted and lowered. The salute is held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard or through the last note of music, whichever is the longest.

Displaying the Flag Indoors

When on display, the flag is accorded the place of honor, always positioned to its own right. Place it to the right of the speaker or staging area or sanctuary. Other flags should be to the left.

The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point of the group when a number of flags of states, localities, or societies are grouped for display.

When one flag is used with the flag of the United States of America and the staffs are crossed, the flag of the United States is placed on its own right with its staff in front of the other flag.

When displaying the flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the flag's union (stars) should be at the top, to the flag's own right, and to the observer's left.

Thanks for reading!  Prudential California Realty www.prucalhomes.com 805-496-0555

10 Tips To "Go Green" at Home

Join Prudential California Realty in making a difference in our world!  View our 10 quick and easy ways to save energy and "Go Green" in your home.

Prudential California Realty Will Find Your Perfect Home

Visit www.prucalhomes.com today to contact a Ventura County Real Estate Expert, or to search for your perfect home.

More Americans Optimistic About Homeownership

Prudential recently released results of its first quarter Consumer Outlook Survey showing that Americans’ sentiment toward real estate is growing increasingly favorable. A full 77% of consumers feel that the real estate market and property values will recover, representing a four-point improvement from year-end results and seven-point jump over the same period a year ago.

According to the national survey, home ownership remains important to 96% of Americans, especially among women and Generations X and Y. So what is motivating the optimism?  Prospective buyers are motivated by historically low interest rates (currently in the low 3-4% range) and attractive home prices in many markets. In fact, 87% of respondents said Americans considering a home purchase believe that now is the time while mortgage rates and prices are low.

“Anticipation seems to be building for both buyers and sellers this spring buying season,” said Prudential California Realty Broker/Owner Bob Majorino. “Consumers are aware that the market is moving and, with growing optimism, more people are realizing their dreams of homeownership.”

Prospective home-sellers indicated that “finding the right house to buy first” and “making a profit” were the primary reasons they would list their homes this spring. For those considering selling in this low inventory market, they have a major opportunity to make a profit at this time, while still managing to move up or down and still get a great deal. Multiple offers are rapidly driving home prices up and the demand for home sellers is at an all time high.

Additional Key Observations Include

• 87% of sellers are committed to seeing a sale through if their home doesn't sell quickly, and 67% are open to additional guidance from their broker/agent on how to better market their home. 62% are willing to make repairs or redecorate in order to attract more interest.
• Among all age groups surveyed, Generations X and Y remain most confident that real estate and property values will recover.
• 78% of women said homeownership was “very important” vs. 70% of men.

“Our survey data shows that people are feeling better about their personal situations and the U.S. economy,” said Stephen Phillips, chief operating officer for Prudential California Realty's parent company HSF Affiliates. “At the same time, respondents’ views of residential real estate have grown increasingly favorable. We believe more consumers will enter the market this year to capitalize on mortgage and pricing opportunities and to secure their part of the American dream.”

The full survey details are available upon request. An infographic illustrating survey findings is available here.

Prudential Real Estate Outlook Survey MethodologyInterviews with 2,500 Americans who are “in the market” to buy or sell a home were conducted online by Edelman Berland in February, 2013. Respondents are aged 25-64 with a household income of at least $50,000, and either recently bought/sold a home or are considering buying/selling a home. The margin of error is ± 2.0% for all respondents.

For buyers or sellers looking to take advantage of the outstanding market conditions, or to refer a friend who is considering buying or selling, please visit www.prucalhomes.com to contact an agent today!

Real Estate Market Gaining Momentum Nationwide

March brought additional good news for residential real estate with home prices continuing a steady ascent, underwater homeownership falling and homebuilders as busy as they’ve been in more than four years. 

The S&P/Case-Shiller 20-City Composite index released March 26 showed January home prices posting their largest year-over-year increase since the summer of 2006. The index, which tracks single-family home prices in 20 large cities, improved 8.1% with all 20 cities posting year-over-year price gains.

Nineteen of the 20 cities in the index showed acceleration in their year-over-year returns with only Detroit posting a modest price slowdown. Even New York home prices, which endured more than two years of consecutive year-over-year declines, turned higher. Phoenix and Las Vegas registered the highest annual gains along with San Francisco.

David Blitzer, chairman of the Index Committee at S&P Dow Jones Indices, suggested more price strength ahead. “Economic Data continues to support the housing recovery,” he said. “Single-family home building permits and housing starts posted double-digit, year-over-year increases in February 2013. Steady employment and low borrowing rates pushed inventories down to their lower post-recession levels.” 

Logically, the lack of inventory has slowed home sales in some markets yet rising prices are encouraging more people to place their homes on the market. Existing homes for sale rose 10% in February, according to the National Association of REALTORS^®.

Rising home prices are also driving down the threshold of underwater homeownership. CoreLogic reported in late March that another 200,000 residential properties returned to a state of positive equity during Q4. For all of 2012, 1.7 million homes moved from negative to positive equity, CoreLogic said. 

Accordingly, household real estate wealth increased by $1.4 trillion in 2012, according to the Federal Reserve, which suggests that more homeowners will return to the real estate market to buy and sell.

Higher home prices also have activated homebuilders, who in February broke ground on a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 910,000 homes, the second-fastest pace since June 2008, according to the Commerce Department.

In all, real estate’s recovery enjoys a broad base and balance is returning to the market – just in time for the spring buying season. If you or someone you know is considering taking advantage of this incredible opportunity in real estate, please visit www.prucalhomes.com or call (888) 352-1652.

Why You Need A Realtor

To get started selling your home, contact one of our skilled Ventura County Real Estate Agents at www.prucalhomes.com or call 888-352-1652.

Ventura County Real Estate Market Update

The national media is abuzz with news about the real estate market recovery.  In Ventura County, we are no exception as evidenced by rapidly increasing home prices.  If these trends continue, we will surpass the market action index for a buyer's market, and move towards a market that is more favorable to sellers.  In some areas in Ventura County we are already seeing this happen.  However, even as prices continue to climb, we are seeing a decrease in inventory.  Meaning that there is more demand than supply, and too many buyers for the limited number of homes for sale.  

Now lets take a look at Inventory - not looking so good... Buyer conditions have been very favorable up until now and housing affordability has been better than ever.  But now that potential buyers and investors have caught on to this trend, all the available inventory has been eaten up and there are few homes available on the market today.

Many homeowners are on the fence about selling because they see the prices rising and are waiting until the timing is right for maximum profit - what many people forget is that if they plan to purchase a replacement home they will be paying more in the long run as prices continue to go up.  The current threshold evidences that NOW is the time to sell as interest rates are still favorable, and many homes are still affordable.  Houses are also selling QUICKLY - many homes listed by Prudential California Realty have multiple offers within a matter of days.

If you or someone you know is considering buying or selling a home or you just want to know what your home is worth in today's market, please visit our website www.prucalhomes.com for more market stats, or to contact an agent for a free home valuation.

Prudential California Realty Is Hiring!

Prudential California Realty is hiring both new and experienced agents for our five outstanding Ventura County offices.  The real estate industry offers some of the most exciting and rewarding career opportunities today.  What other profession allows individuals to run their own business without having the great financial risks associated with being self-employed? You set your own schedule, determine your objectives, and determine your own limitless income potential.

However, not all companies can offer the flexibility and tremendous resources that Prudential California Realty can provide.  Our Marketing and Technology initiatives are far above industry standards, and we offer the training and support to make our agents the best in the business.

To learn more about available career opportunities in Ventura County Real Estate, please contact Linda Kay at 805-446-8631 or visit our website www.prucalhomes.com.

Oxnard Riverpark and The Collection Updates

Riverpark is a newer home and condominium development in the community of Oxnard, located off the 101 Freeway between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Development in Riverpark was going strong in 2009, and this new community will feature major retailers, restaurants, and entertainment.

The Century Theater and Target Superstore both opened in 2012, and the latest construction at The Collection at Riverpark includes a Whole Foods grocer and REI Sporting store, scheduled to open in Spring 2013. The Collection also recently announced some very exciting dining news – Popular restaurants The Yard House and Toby Keith's I Love This Bar will provide some great family and nightlife options for Oxnard residents.

Can't wait for the new restaurants? Head over now to try the already popular dining destinations including Panera Bread, Menchies, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, and Kabuki Japanese Restaurant.

For buyers who would like to make Riverpark their home, Prudential California Realty is your source for Riverpark and Oxnard Real Estate information. To find an agent, please visit www.prucalhomes.com or contact our Prudential Oxnard office at 805-984-8660. For more information on upcoming Riverpark Collection grand openings, please visit http://shoppingthecollection.com/

Enter to Win A $200 Home Depot Gift Card!

Prudential California Realty is giving away a $200 Home Depot gift card to one lucky Ventura County Resident!  Just complete the entry form and send back to us before April 1, 2013.

Entries can be dropped off at any Prudential California Realty location, visit www.prucalhomes.com for locations and agent contact information. Additionally, entries can be faxed to 805-496-0099 or emailed to info@prucalhomes.com.

The State of Real Estate - Prudential Outlook Survey

Beautiful Newer Home In Moorpark

Desirable Waverly Place townhome in the Moorpark Highlands! This beautiful home was built in 2008 and features granite in the kitchen and baths, stainless steel appliances, and beautiful tile floors. Spacious three bedrooms and two baths with a downstairs powder room. Master suite includes a bath with a soaking tub and walk-in closet. Plantation shutters in most rooms and designer paint. Contemporary fireplace in the living room makes this wonderful Townhome a true delight! Garage has flecked painted floors and a built in workbench with built in cabinets per builder. The Waverly Place community features a pool, spa and playground. Close to shopping and restaurants. Come see this gorgeous unit! This listing is presented by Gaye McLean (DRE# 0142076) from Prudential California Realty's Thousand Oaks office.  To schedule a showing, please contact Gaye at gmclean@prucalhomes.com, or visit our website at www.prucalhomes.com.

Opening Homeownership Doors For More Veterans

Military personnel looking for financing in today’s mortgage environment can take advantage of the VA loan program, which has been available for more than six decades to help members of the military own their own homes. The program, established in 1944 as part of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, is available for any individual who has served in active duty in any branch of the U.S. military for a minimum of 90 days.

         “The beauty of this loan is that it allows financing without requiring a down payment,” said Eric Kandell, founder of lowvarates.com. “It also doesn’t allow the mortgage lender to charge the veteran private mortgage insurance.”  A VA loan requires the borrower to pay a one-time funding fee on their purchase, which can be paid up-front or financed into the total cost of the loan. The funding fee for regular military members is 2.15% of the loan. Reservists pay a fee of 2.40%.

         Non-active duty personnel, such as individuals in the Army Reserves or National Guard, may apply for a VA-backed mortgage provided they have completed six years of service. Spouses of deceased or missing military members are also eligible if they have not remarried. Those who were dishonorably discharged from any military branch are not eligible.

The Department of Veteran’s Affairs states that roughly 25 million people are eligible  for a VA loan yet only 10%-15% of those have taken advantage of it when buying or refinancing. For many years, leading up to the mortgage crisis there were many conventional mortgage products that were easier or more economical to the veteran than the VA loan. “In the wild, wild west of mortgage lending from the early 2000s to 2008, 100% financing was common,” Thorne said. “So why pay the VA funding fee just to have 100 percent financing?

   Today, veterans remain in the dark about VA loan benefits or that the program even exists. Thankfully,  Prudential California Realty has an in-house Lening company to assist potential buyers with finding the right type of financing.  For more information about homes in Ventura County or to contact our agents or lending company, please visit www.prucalhomes.com

Look At Our Beautiful New Website!

See it now at www.prucalhomes.com

Prudential Real Estate is a reputable worldwide brand, now owned by one of the most respected and recognized brands, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services.  While the brand itself is a global powerhouse, the company also felt the need to emphasize its local ownership and community presence through a more community-focused website.

Broker/Owner Bob Majorino started the company in Thousand Oaks over 30 years ago, and has expanded Prudential California Realty to five offices located throughout Ventura County.  “Our agents are experts in the community and our goal in the website re-design was to provide our customers with exceptional service by providing relevant community and real estate information,” said Majorino.

The new site is hyper-localized to Ventura County, with individual pages for each local area with easily accessible market statistics and community information.  “It was really important for us to continue to localize the brand in a way that Ventura County consumers can relate to on a personal level, while still conveying the strength of a national brand,” said Marketing Director Gina Lipari.

Another important factor for the company’s new site was the property search functionality. All search results are easy to navigate and sort, and each search result features a virtual tour with voiceover.  Individual results also include a “Walk-Score,” ranking each listing by its location and access to area amenities and a “Chalk Score” ranking the local schools.  In addition to general property searches, consumers can now save searches and receive alerts when new listings match their criteria.

With five offices throughout Ventura County, Prudential California Realty is an independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliates Inc.  For office locations or to view the company’s new website, please visit www.prucalhomes.com.

The Life of A Working Real Estate Agent

One of the most complex and significant financial events in peoples’ lives is the purchase or sale of a home or investment property. Because of this complexity and significance, people typically seek the help of real estate agents when buying or selling real estate.

Real estate sales agents need to have a thorough knowledge of the real estate market in their communities. They should know which neighborhoods will best fit clients’ needs and budgets. They are familiar with local zoning and tax laws and know where to obtain financing. Agents and brokers also act as intermediaries in price negotiations between buyers and sellers.

Agents spend a significant amount of time looking for properties to sell. They obtain listings—agreements by owners to place properties for sale with the firm. When listing a property for sale, agents and brokers compare the listed property with similar properties that recently sold, in order to determine a competitive market price for the property. Following the sale of the property, both the agent who sold it and the agent who obtained the listing receive a portion of the commission. Thus, agents who sell a property that they themselves have listed can increase their commission.

Agents may meet several times with prospective buyers to discuss and visit available properties. Agents identify and emphasize the most pertinent selling points. To a young family looking for a house, for example, they may emphasize the convenient floor plan, the area’s low crime rate, and the proximity to schools and shopping. To a potential investor, they may point out the tax advantages of owning a rental property and the ease of finding a renter. If bargaining over price becomes necessary, agents must follow their client’s instructions carefully and may have to present counteroffers to get the best possible price.

Once the buyer and seller have signed a contract, the real estate broker or agent must make sure that all special terms of the contract are met before the closing date. The agent must make sure that any legally mandated or agreed-upon inspections, such as termite and radon inspections, take place. In addition, if the seller agrees to any repairs, the broker or agent ensures they are made. Increasingly, brokers and agents are handling environmental problems as well, by making sure that the properties they sell meet environmental regulations. For example, they may be responsible for dealing with lead paint on the walls. Loan officers, attorneys, or other people handle many details, but the agent must ensure that they are carried out.

Advances in technology and the ability to retrieve data about properties via the Internet allow many real estate agents to work out of their homes, in addition to their real estate offices. Even with this convenience, agents spend much of their time away from their desks—showing properties to customers, analyzing properties for sale, meeting with prospective clients, or researching the real estate market.

The most successful agents often work more than a standard 40-hour week. They usually work evenings and weekends and are usually on call to respond to the needs of clients. Although the hours are long and frequently irregular, most agents and brokers have the freedom to determine their own schedule. They can arrange their work so that they have time off when they want it. Business usually is slower during the winter season.

In every State, real estate agents must be licensed. Prospective agents must be high school graduates, be at least 18 years old, and pass a written test. A large number of agents have some college training. College courses in real estate, finance, business administration, statistics, economics, law, and English are helpful. More than 1,000 universities, colleges, and community colleges offer courses in real estate. Most offer an associate or bachelor’s degree in real estate; some offer graduate degrees. Many local real estate associations that are members of the National Association of Realtors sponsor courses covering the fundamentals and legal aspects of the field. Advanced courses in mortgage financing, property development and management, and other subjects also are available.

Our firm offers formal training programs for both beginners and experienced agents.

As agents gain knowledge and expertise, they become more efficient in closing a greater number of transactions and increase their earnings. 

Employment of real estate agents is expected to grow 11 percent during the 2008-18 decade. Relatively low interest rates and the perception that real estate usually is a good investment, coupled with the recovery from a recent sharp decline in property values may continue to stimulate sales of real estate, resulting in the need for more agents.

Well-trained, ambitious people who enjoy selling—particularly those with extensive social and business connections in their communities will have the best chance for success.

Interested in a career in Real Estate with one of the most highly-recognized and well-respected brands in the country?  Visit www.PruCalCareers.com to apply today!