Real Estate Ray's Blog

     Some transactions are a piece of cake...Ha!  This one was not.  Everything about this transaction really happened, except one thing.  What did not happen?     One of my closest friends, Mark, was raised in this home and I spent a lot of time visiting him back in 1970 something.  It is a very...

I love to cook so when I go out to dinner I like something prepared well and something that is different.  Todo un Poco (a bit of everything) definitely fits that criteria.The Ambiance:From the moment you walk in the door, you know it will be a different experience.  Here is a small sampling of w...

     There is a big difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval.  Pre-approval takes more work and time, but it is the way to go.  Michael Mannino  explains the difference well.  I actually have seen a buyer with a pre-qualification letter lose their deposit because the lender did not e...

     This story almost ended before it started.  We had tried everything.  The doctor said we were both completely healthy.  In some cases, couples just can't have children.  It is one thing to have a definable roadblock.  It is quite another to be met with the unknown. The question becomes, why ...

     We do not frequent coffee shops often, but sometimes after church, we make an exception.  We like shops that are a little different and our Elk Grove favorite is 18 Grams.   It is cozy place with some tasty treats.  Last Sunday, we enjoyed one of their cinnamon rolls.  It had plenty of flavo...

     A few days ago, I was reviewing offers with my clients.  They paused and said, "you know, you do more than most agents, why?"  I have found that most real estate agents are very generous, but who knows?  Before I answer the question, here are some of the things I have done for past clients p...

 City representatives came to our recent Elk Grove Regional Realtor meeting to discuss some of  private development projects going on in our area. They spent a lot of time highlighting their Elk Grove Website, www.elkgrovecity.org.  This site has lots of useful information, including the typical ...

    Running a half marathon is for crazy people.  That is what I told my wife, Mary Margaret, when she wanted us to train for the Shamrock'n half marathon.  I did not run with her, but I was at the finish line as her most avid fan.  Hey, it can be tough to be a fan.  It was hot out there and I go...

   OPEN HOUSES THIS WEEKENDLincoln Village, Stockton     This is a two bedroom, two bathroom, 1,495 square foot house.  It is a very cute place in need of some updating and could be perfect for an investor or first time home buyer.  It is priced at $250,000.  More Information OPEN HOUSES at 6547 ...

     No, I can not drop everything and go to Las Vegas to see Santana and play golf.  That is how my conversation started a few weeks ago.  Like all good friends would do, they totally ignored me.  Ray, you love Santana and we will be standing right in front of the stage.  I can't go.  But Ray, t...