Recent Blog Posts

Have you been on the couch too long in life? Do you keep on renting and never buying?Get off the couch! (Photo: Pexels, rdne 5591469)It is TIME to settle down and buy a home!Stop shuffling, time to buy a home and build generational wealth (Time by Alex Bon, Pixabay)How about some blue skies, build some equity and family wealth and stop paying your Landlord. How about sipping lemonade on the porch, sit a spell, sell your snow shovel, play golf 12 months of the year and settle down in the VALLEY OF THE SUN? We have SO MANY homes for sale just for you in the Phoenix Arizona metro area. Ready to finally settle down in Arizona? (Arizona sunset, Pixabay)See here on this link and following with listings on the MLS with pictures, prices, details map locations and more in a full-page format. Sep... 09/13/2026

Pacific Beach Weekly Market Update August 31st - September 6th, 2026 Castaway RECENTLY SOLD Everts Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 494 sq. ft. | $649,900 Crown Point RECENTLY SOLD Morrell Street | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 899 sq. ft. | $429,000 Crown Point Villas RECENTLY SOLD Crown Point Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 663 sq. ft. | $650,000 Felspar Views RECENTLY SOLD Felspar Street | 4 bedrooms | 0 baths | 1876 sq. ft. | $855,000 Felspar Street | 4 bedrooms | 0 baths | 1876 sq. ft. | $895,000 Hemingway House RECENTLY SOLD Fanuel Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1036 sq. ft. | $549,000 The Plaza RECENTLY SOLD Diamond Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 653 sq. ft. | $379,900 Diamond | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 653 sq. ft. | $339,000 Diamond Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 678 sq. ft. | $309,000 09/13/2026

Bill Salvatore of Arizona Elite Properties featured a post to Re-Blog today on Active Rain. Good post by Ken today, and worthy of our daily Re-B. Gilbert AZ  GILBERT ARIZONA HOMES FOR SALE, Bill Salvatore, AZVHV / Helping Arizona Heroes, New-Construction Advantage, Realtor, sell my house, 2026 Market, Chandler  #Sellmyhouse #whatsmyhomeworth #homevalues#2026market #ArizonaEliteProperties #ChandlerAZ#yourValleyProperty #GilbertRealtor #AZVHV#buyingaHome #LiveinSunnyAZ #BillSalvatore The 2026 Economic Report of the President includes a chart that should stop anyone involved in housing. From 2000 to 2023, real house prices increased 81.9% while real median income increased only 12.3%. Housing prices rose nearly seven times faster than income. That gap is the affordability crisis in one pic... 09/13/2026

Mission Valley Weekly Market Update August 31st - September 6th, 2026 Courtyards at Escala RECENTLY SOLD Prato Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1597 sq. ft. | $959,900 Matera Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1411 sq. ft. | $735,876 Friars Pointe RECENTLY SOLD Rancho Mission Road | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 506 sq. ft. | $224,000 Kensington Park Villas RECENTLY SOLD Caminito Ocio | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1740 sq. ft. | $549,000 Mission Belwood RECENTLY SOLD Friars Road | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1463 sq. ft. | $509,000 Mission Heights RECENTLY SOLD Rancho Mission Road | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 675 sq. ft. | $259,000 Mission Playmor RECENTLY SOLD Caminito Deporte | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1334 sq. ft. | $575,000 Caminito Bravura | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 885 sq. ft. | $364,876 Mission Plaza RE... 09/13/2026

Music To Enhance Your Real Estate ListingHaving music to support a video of a real estate listing is becoming the latest thing in marketing real estate.With this in mind, I started to think about some listings that I have sold and I wondered what music would have been appropriate.Let's see.  Here is a basic description of some of my listings:---House #1:  This house had no front wall.  Literally, the entire front wall was misssing, both the inside and the outside.  A contractor gave an estimate about how to refinish the brick wall which used to exist.  Two days later when I went by to see the house, the wall was gone.  By the way, the owner still gave the job to this contractor, who subsequently walked away from the job after his scaffolding was stolen.  --- House #2:  Before, I saw thi... 09/13/2026

Sun City or Sun City West? The cheaper recreation fee depends on how many people own the home. That is one of several differences worth understanding before an Arizona retirement move. These neighboring 55+ communities northwest of Phoenix share a Del Webb heritage, but their homes, recreation systems and ownership costs deserve separate consideration. 1. Different generations of homes Sun City opened in 1960. Sun City West’s Del Webb development ran from 1978 through 1997. Even a home from that final year is approaching 30 years old in 2026. Sun City includes detached homes, Gemini twins (paired homes sharing a wall), garden apartments and other attached options. Sun City West also offers detached, patio and condominium-style residences, with floor plans from later development periods... 09/13/2026

What’s the Value of My Cardiff-by-the-Sea Home? Cardiff by the Sea Home Sales for August 2026 It’s important that serious buyers and sellers in the Cardiff real estate market have current information about the local market conditions. When planning to buy or sell a home this information will help you make informed buying and selling decisions about Cardiff homes for sale. (Feature photo is of the Cardiff Kook surfer statue that traditionally gets dressed up periodically by residents, especially for holidays). Supply and demand impact selling and buying in several ways, including prices, amount of buyer competition, and marketing time. It’s important to understand how local market conditions can affect your buying and/or selling decisions. Let’s discuss YOUR real estate plans now! Read M... 09/13/2026

Every year on September 13th, and this year on Sunday September 13, 2026, we celebrate and enjoy Happy National Uncle Sam Day.There is no record indicating origin of the Happy National Uncle Sam Day started.On September 13, the United States recognizes Uncle Sam Day to commemorate Sam Wilson, the man of fascinating nickname for the United States government who was born on September 13, 1766.Sam Wilson was a meat packer from New York was born on September 12, 1766. He is known for supplying barrels of meat to soldiers during the war of 1812. To identify the meat for shipment, Wilson stamped "U.S." on the barrels. Soldiers dubbed the grub a delivery from Uncle Sam nicknames tend to do, and it’s popularity spread.President George H. W. Bush proclaimed Uncle Sam Day to be September 13, 1989... 09/13/2026

Augusta, Georgia, has a deep military presence, and the planned Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery – Augusta is meaningful news for veterans, military families, and the greater CSRA community.For years, many local families have had to travel outside the Augusta area for a dedicated veterans cemetery. This new cemetery will give veterans and eligible family members a place of honor much closer to home.The planned site is in south Augusta near the East Central Regional Hospital/Gracewood area. While early discussions referenced Tobacco Road, newer plans have also pointed to access from the Byrd Road area. Either way, the location places the cemetery within the Augusta community it is intended to serve.At the Augusta Board of REALTORS® luncheon in August, Commissioner Don Clark spoke about... 09/13/2026

📍 364 Seaside Avenue 603, Honolulu, HI 96815🏡 Condominium | 💲$420,000 | 🛏 Studio | 🛁 1 Bath | 📐 392 sf Living Area | Honolulu #MLS 202617430📖 Discover one of Waikiki’s best‑kept secrets at Marine Surf Waikiki—an exceptional resort‑zoned property offering rare flexibility for legal short‑term rentals, long‑term leasing, or full‑time residence. This turnkey, furnished studio features a full kitchen, assigned covered parking, and a smart layout that maximizes comfort and rental appeal.Enjoy the convenience of on‑floor laundry facilities, evening security, and a refreshing pool on the 4th floor—all in the heart of Waikiki. The building’s mixed‑use resort zoning makes it a standout opportunity for investors seeking strong rental performance, while its location places you moments from world‑c... 09/13/2026

Multi-Unit Townhouse in BaltimoreMulti-unit townhouse --- 4 levels --- 3 units on month to month leases --- Main floor unit has 1 bedroom, 1 full bath, and access to the basement ground floor level; Rent: $1,100 --- Second floor unit has 1 bedroom and 1 full bath; Rent: $850 --- Third level has 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom; Owner occupied --- Basement is unfinished with access from the rear of the building or from the main level unit; Potential 4th unit --- House is in good condition --- With a few improvements the gross annual income could be $43,200, a gross return of over 12%.1923 McCulloh Street, Baltimore, MD 21217Price: $350,000Ground Rent: $150 per year;  Capitalized: $2500 Contact Ron Trzcinski of Samson Propertiesrontrzcinski.samsonproperties.net  09/13/2026

Clairemont Mesa Weekly Market Update August 31st - September 6th, 2026 Balboa Ridge RECENTLY SOLD Balboa Arms Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 820 sq. ft. | $549,900 Canyon Rim RECENTLY SOLD Ariane Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 810 sq. ft. | $575,000 Cole Manor RECENTLY SOLD Cole Street | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1076 sq. ft. | $500,000 Costa Viva RECENTLY SOLD Clairemont Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 912 sq. ft. | $369,000 Pacific Racquet Club RECENTLY SOLD Monair Drive | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1236 sq. ft. | $449,876 09/13/2026

San Marcos Weekly Market Update August 31st - September 6th, 2026 Avocado Gardens NEWLY LISTED Grape Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 966 sq. ft. | $500,000 Calico Bluffs NEWLY LISTED Silverado Street | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1570 sq. ft. | $824,900 Candera RECENTLY SOLD Candera Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1649 sq. ft. | $825,000 Chateau NEWLY LISTED Circa Del Lago | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 962 sq. ft. | $365,000 Lake Park Terrace NEWLY LISTED Grandon Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1060 sq. ft. | $525,000 Larkspur Heights NEWLY LISTED Silverado Street | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1570 sq. ft. | $824,900 Solaire RECENTLY SOLD Cosmo Way | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1253 sq. ft. | $650,000 Springfield RECENTLY SOLD Westin Way | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1342 sq. ft. | $689,000 09/13/2026

Montgomery County Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage MonthMontgomery County Executive Marc Elrich will participate in several special events from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as the County observes “National Hispanic Heritage Month.” The events will honor Hispanic and Latine immigrants who are making significant contributions to their communities.Hispanic and Latine residents make up more than one-fifth of Montgomery County’s population. According to the U.S. Census Bureaus’ 2024 American Community Survey, 21.7% of County residents identify as Hispanic or Latine, reflecting communities with roots throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.Events celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month will include: Tuesday, Sept.15—Thursday, Oct. 15: A social media campaign recognizing Hispanic and Latine em... 09/13/2026

Point Loma Weekly Market Update August 31st - September 6th, 2026 Anchor Cove RECENTLY SOLD Historic Decatur | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1105 sq. ft. | $619,000 Le Rondelet RECENTLY SOLD Anchorage Lane | 1 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 830 sq. ft. | $395,000 Anchorage Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1658 sq. ft. | $1,349,000 Anchorage Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1658 sq. ft. | $950,000 09/13/2026

SENIOR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST DESIGNATION COURSEPROVIDED BY CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORSWHEN: September 30 & October 1, 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday) 9:00 am-4:00 pmWHERE: Live on ZoomCOST: CAR members $240, non members $480, already SRES agents $99REGISTER: CAR website, https://www.car.org/, CAR Education Calendar, scroll to SRES courseNOTE: Course is worth 12 CE credits to Certified Senior Advisor members, NOT DRE CREDITS  09/13/2026

When homeowners talk about the value of their home, I often hear the words appraisal and assessment used interchangeably. And now, with online home values everywhere, there are even more numbers competing for our attention.But an appraisal, a town assessment, and a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) are not the same thing—and understanding the difference can help you know which number actually matters for your situation.What Is a Home Appraisal?An appraisal is a professional opinion of value completed by a licensed appraiser for a specific purpose.Most commonly, an appraisal is ordered by a lender to verify the value of a property when someone is purchasing or refinancing a home. Appraisals may also be needed for other purposes, including:❖ Estate planning or settlement❖ Divorce proceedi... 09/13/2026

The Fall Real Estate Market Is HereWhat Buyers and Sellers Can Expect as We Move from Summer into FallLabor Day has come and gone, the kids are back in school, the days are getting a little shorter, and you can already feel the seasons beginning to change here in Franklin CountyThe real estate market changes with the seasons, too.After several years when very little about real estate felt "normal," we are beginning to see a return to a more traditional seasonal market. And historically, the weeks following Labor Day mark the beginning of what I consider our second-busiest real estate season of the year.Why the Market Picks Up After Labor DaySpring is traditionally our busiest real estate season. Then July and August arrive, and life gets busy in a different way.Vacations, summer activit... 09/13/2026

Real estate video, when you run and gun roll your own, the first 48 hours is critical.Just like what happens at the crime scene, there is a critical procedure to implement if you want to maximize market exposure.Latest real estate video uploaded under 18 hours ago.11,940 views, 412 likes, 74 comments in less than 18 hours means the video reach and exposure is underway.Since shooting the video stills, loops, video overhead Friday afternoon, the video goes live in 24 hours. Real estate is a fast paced edge of your seat experience.When your local rural Maine real estate market is NOT an hour from Boston.When your buyer for property listings in Maine are looking at quite a drive up the pike, what a benefit real estate videos are.Save gas, almost instantly get to "open house on demand" tour ... 09/13/2026

A decade might seem like a long time, but there are some things that do get better with age.  Home ownership is one of those issues.  That extra decade gives you more time to build equity with every payment, more exposure to home appreciation, and more years of amortization working in your favor. It’s not just about owning - it’s about how long your money has to grow. The earlier you start, the more your future self benefits. Curious about how to get started? Send me a message!#realestate #realestateagent #financehub  09/13/2026