california 101
Real Estate & Home Care Guide VENTURA COUNTY • AUGUST 2021
california 101
JAN. - FEB., 2020
REAL ESTATE GUIDE VENTURA
COUNTY
Steps From The Sand
Represented by Cathy Titus – LIV Sotheby’s International Realty CA 101
Serving The Ojai Valley, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Conejo and The Heritage Valley
Limited Quantities!
Don’t miss your chance to own at Rice Ranch.
Executive Homes starting in high $700k's open floorplans + 580 acres of open space Appointments daily 10am - 5pm sales office: 1119 Trilogy Circle, Orcutt at the end of Bradley Rd and Sage Crest Dr Contact: (805) 623-5607, sales@ccb1.net
Ventura County, CA – August 2021
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ON THE COVER: Steps From The Sand 3 Seaview Dr Montecito, 93108
Offered at $4,295,500
• 2 Bedrooms • 2.5 Bathrooms • 2,234 Square Feet See page 10 for more information on this spectacular property. Represented by Cathy Titus – LIV Sotheby’s International Realty CalBRE# 01173283(805) 1 805.646.7288 • Cell: 805.798.0960
Welcome to the California 101 Real Estate Guide - Ventura County. We offer a look at Ventura County with a keen eye of why this area is so desirable, and providing Realtors and Homeowner Services.
California 101 Real Estate Guide california101guide.com
WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK
August 2021
5 - Featured Local Realtors
Connecting buyers and sellers
MAGAZINE INQUIRIES (805) 340-1057 advertising@ca101guide.com
6 - Helpful Selling and Buying Points
Published by Blue Highways Productions
10 - Featured Property
3 factors to consider when choosing a mortgage lender
Steps From The Sand
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Mike Dawkins
12 - Helpful Selling and Buying Points
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dennis DeLano
14 - Helpful Selling and Buying Points
What is a smart home?
What to know about outdoor living space
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CALIFORNIA 101 Featured Local Realtors
CA 101
CONNECTING BUYERS AND SELLERS
Ann Marie Parent (805) 452-5209 LIV SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY 727 West Ojai Avenue Lic. 01328373
Cathy Titus (805) 798-0960 CalBRE# 01173283 LIV SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY 727 West Ojai Avenue
Donna Sallen Realtor® (805) 798-0516 RE/MAX Gold Coast Realtors donnasallen.com donna4remax@aol.com Lic. 01488460
Erik Wilde (805) 830-3254 LIV SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY 727 West Ojai Avenue erikw@west.net wilde-wilde.com Lic. 01461074
Larry Wilde (805) 640-5734 LIV SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY 727 West Ojai Avenue lwilde@west.net wilde-wilde.com Lic. 00521627
Nora Davis (805) 207-6177 LIV SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY 727 West Ojai Avenue nora@ojaivalleyestates.com ojaivalleyestates.com Lic. 01046067
Patty Waltcher (805) 340-3774 LIV SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY 727 West Ojai Avenue pattywaltcher@mac.com pattywaltcher.com Lic. 01176473
Sharon MaHarry (805) 766-7889 KELLER WILLIAMS® Broker Associate 805Properties.com Lic. 01438966
Stacy Cadenasso (805) 217-2676 KELLER WILLIAMS® Luxury Homes International Broker Associate Stacy@805properties.com 805Properties.com Lic. 01761197
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CALIFORNIA 101 - Helpful Selling and Buying Points
CA 101
3 factors to consider when choosing a mortgage lender A home is the most significant purchase many people will ever make. Perhaps because of that, many buyers, particularly those purchasing a home for the first time, are understandably nervous about the home-buying process. The decision regarding which home to buy warrants ample consideration, but so, too, does the buyers’ choice of lender.
Photo submitted
2. Fees
Mortgage lenders can be found all over the internet, and the sheer volume of lender options can make it hard for home buyers to find the right fit for them. Couple that with lending-related terminology that many first-time buyers may be unfamiliar with, and it’s easy to see why prospective homeowners acan feel overwhelmed about the process of borrowing money to buy their homes.
Fees vary from lender to lender. Fees should not be mistaken for interest rates, which change daily and are typically dictated by the financial industry and prospective buyers’ credit history and financial standing. When speaking with potential lenders, ask for a rundown of their fees, and the services those fees include, and closing cost estimates in writing, then compare and contrast fees and costs of various lenders before making a final decision. Some lenders may charge considerably more in fees than others, so buyers should put in the effort necessary to comparison shop.
When looking for a mortgage lender, prospective homeowners should never forget that the choice of lender is, in most cases, entirely theirs to make. When making that decision, a host of variables should be considered. The following are three such factors that, upon ample consideration, may help buyers rest easy knowing they did their due diligence when looking for lenders.
3. Personal interaction Buyers, especially those who have never before purchased a home, will likely have lots of questions. This is where personal interaction with a prospective lender should be noted. Securing financing for a home purchase can sometimes seem like an impersonal process, but it doesn’t have to be, and many lenders are happy to answer buyers’ questions. Lenders who answer questions quickly and clearly can make buyers more comfortable about the home buying process. Buyers may want to avoid lenders who seem evasive or unwilling to answer questions in writing.
1. Reputation/recommendation Just like other businesses, lenders have reputations, and oftentimes those reputations can be determined via some simple online research. Peruse online reviews to determine what past buyers felt about a given lender. If possible, ask friends, family or colleagues who they worked with to secure a mortgage. Ventura County, CA – August 2021
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ed ur at Fe on ck Ba r ve Co
BRILLI AN T CON TEMPORA RY This completely renovated, contemporary home on nearly 3 gated acres has fabulous 360 degree views and is totally refined in every detail. From the organic interior layout to the cultivated surrounding environment, everything has been finished with the highest quality materials. High ceilings, windows, and open, connected spaces create a light, airy atmosphere while extensive use of natural materials makes the home feel earthy and warm. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, with amazing views, gorgeous marble counters and wood cabinets. A covered outdoor entertainment area features a fabulous fireplace and a finished garage could easily be converted into an ADU. The beautifully landscaped grounds include a stone labyrinth, cobblestone driveway, and mature avocado, citrus and olive trees. 2100MaricopaOjai.com
Price Upon Request
PAT T Y WALTCHER
(805) 340-3774
pattywaltcher.com California 101 Real Estate Guide
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your best life
727 W. Ojai Avenue, Ojai • 805.646.7288 | 554 E Main Street, Ventura • 805.641.0125 livsothebysrealtyca.com
Cal DRE 01904034
© 2021 LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. All rights reserved. All data, including all measurements and calculations are obtained from various sources and has not and will not be verified by Broker. All information shall be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty is independently owned and operated and supports the principals of the Fair Housing Act.
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1101 Daly Road, Ojai First time ever on the market Located in one of Ojai’s most desirable neighborhoods in downtown Ojai is this 3 bedroom 2 bath Spanish style home offering high vaulted ceilings, open floor plan with tile flooring throughout. Enjoy a sprawling backyard on 1/3 of an acre with spectacular mountain views, with a covered patio perfect for entertaining with family and friends.
3 BD | 2 BA | 1,596 SQFT | $1,379,000
111 N Fulton St, Ojai This centrally located Ojai home was rebuilt in 2002, and is now a 4 bedroom 4 bath home of almost 2000 sq ft. Walk to Libby Bowl, Soule Park Golf Course, Farmers market, everything in town is a short walk away. The level of construction is substantial and the layout lends itself to a multi use residence. 4 BD | 4 BA | 1,931 SQFT | $890,000
Skyhigh Drive, Ojai Spectacular mountain and valley views from this 2 acre property! Located in the beautiful Foster Park area of the Ojai Valley, it is peaceful and secluded, yet only minutes from downtown Ojai and Ventura. This parcel consists of 5 lots. Great potential for developing several homes or an estate. Water rights paid for and electric near by. 2 Acres | $249,000 | Ann Marie Parent
ANN MARIE PARENT 805.452.5209 CalDRE#:01328373 aparent@livsothebysrealty.com
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CALIFORNIA 101 Featured Property
CA 101
Steps From The Sand 3 Seaview Dr Montecito, 93108
Steps from the Sand; Highly desired Ocean front - first level unit; Spacious living room includes wet bar and fireplace with access to a private balcony also access from the dining room to enjoy the sun sets; Open kitchen has plenty of prep space with center island; Second bedroom serves as den, office or family room; Master bedroom offers two walkin closets, dual sinks, step onto the second private balcony from the sitting area; Third bedroom with
Represented by Cathy Titus – LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Ventura County, CA – August 2021
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CALIFORNIA 101 Featured Property
CA 101
Steps From The Sand 3 Seaview Dr Montecito, 93108
ensuite bath and walk-in closet; Near elevator to underground assigned parking; Montecito Shores amenities include a security guard, pool, spa, play area, and tennis courts. Located near the Coral Casino, Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel, Downtown Montecito; Approx. 15 minutes to the Santa Barbara Airport. Offered at $ 4,295,500
Office: 805-798-0960 – Cell: 805.798.0960 California 101 Real Estate Guide
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CalBRE# 01173283 Ventura County, CA – August 2021
CALIFORNIA 101 - Helpful Selling and Buying Points
CA 101
What is a smart home?
Photo submitted
Refrigerators that inform their owners when it’s time to buy more eggs and thermostats that learn homeowners’ heating and cooling preferences may once have seemed like futuristic ideas straight out of a sci-fi movie. However, such products are no longer a dream but a reality. The term “smart home” refers to a residence that has appliances, HVAC, lighting, entertainment systems, security, and many more devices that communicate with one another. Such devices can be controlled remotely, according to SmartHomeUSA, an
automation product retailer. Proponents of smart home technology say features can help people save money on utilities and conserve natural resources, all the while providing peace of mind to homeowners. In 2016, 80 million smart home devices were delivered worldwide. That marks a 64 percent increase from 2015, according to the research data firm IHS Markit. The smart home trend is only expected to grow in coming years. Although there’s interest in smart home technology, the industry remains
• Smart bulbs: Manufacturers offer various types of smart light bulbs. Some are color-changing, others react to doorbells or alarms, and others can simulate typical lighting patterns when homeowners are away. Integrated apps enable remote access to scheduling so people can arrive home to a well-lit house.
Those interested in dabbling in some smart home technology and testing the waters may want to start with the following household items.
via a smartphone. Make sure that homes are secured or that pets are behaving while out with smart cameras. • Flood sensor: Get peace of mind against damaging floods with Wi-Fi flood sensors. • Appliances: A new breed of smart appliances can make it possible for users to turn on the washing machine while out of the house, close refrigerator doors from afar or even start their vacuum cleaners remotely. Smart technology is taking over and is likely to continue changing the way people live and work.
• Home security: Wi-Fi enabled doorbells with video capabilities allow residents to see who is at the door without having to open it. Cameras can even be accessed remotely, simulating that someone is at home at all times. Never wonder if you’ve locked the door again with smart locks that can be engaged Ventura County, CA – August 2021
fragmented. Consumers are trying to figure out which devices are simply fun and which provide practical benefits. Furthermore, the range of smart devices is expanding rapidly, making potential compatability issues a concern. Companies that plan to educate consumers further about the advantages of smart home features and are open to standardization may have the best chances of survival.
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EXPERIENCED DESIGNER AND BUILDER OF QUALITY CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROJECTS LICENSED AND INSURED GENERAL CONTRACTOR IN CALIFORNIA
DOING IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME. CUSTOMER COMMUNICATION FROM THE BEGINNING TO END IS FIRST AND FOREMOST.
805-640-0262
KERRY MILLER
P.O. Box 984 Ojai, CA 93024
kerrymillerdesigns.com
DESIGNER/BUILDER, INC.
CA LIC #958625
Photo by Nathan Wickstrum
When you support our Wild About Ojai partners, you give back to local businesses and to Ojai’s open spaces! Please consider supporting our partners during this difficult time. A Taste of Ojai Alojai Creations BeCalm of Ojai Chamber on the Mountain
Jennifer Keeler, Hair Stylist at Bohème Lorraine Lim Catering Ojai Quarterly
Char Man Brand Hot Sauce
Rowsie Vain
Dogs Fly Design
Sol Haus Design
The Glass Man Professional Window Washing Company GoOjai.com
Tobias Parker, General Contractor
Greyfox Investors
Wandering Ojai Poetry & Photographs
Great Rates Award-Winning Service
Tonya Peralta Real Estate Services, Inc
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CALIFORNIA 101 - Helpful Selling and Buying Points
CA 101
What to know about outdoor living space Home trends come and go. What was popular as recently as a decade ago may have lost some luster in the eyes of oday’s home buyers. Though that’s historically been the case in regard to real estate, outdoor living rooms are one relatively recent home trend that figures to have a longer shelf life, especially in the aftermath of a global pandemic during which people were encouraged to stay home as much as possible.
Photo submitted
Real estate professionals and organizations like the National Association of Home Builders note the popularity of outdoor living spaces among prospective home buyers, and how that popularity has grown in recent years. Outdoor living rooms not only appeal to potential buyers, they also serve as a means for current homeowners to get more out of their properties. Homeowners mulling outdoor living space projects should consider various factors before deciding to go ahead with a project. • Cost: The home renovation resource HomeAdvisor estimates that the average cost of an outdoor living space is around $7,600. That cost can easily go up depending on where homeowners live and the features they want to have in their outdoor living spaces. For example, including a built-in fire pit in an outdoor living space will cost more than purchasing a stand-alone fire pit that can be picked up and moved. But many homeowners feel a built-in fire pit makes an outdoor living space even more special. • Return on investment: Return on investment is another factor for homeowners to consider as they try to decide if they should install outdoor living spaces and how to design those areas. Much conflicting data about the ROI on outdoor kitchens can be Ventura County, CA – August 2021
found online, but many trusted real estate organizations report that such additions do not mesmerize prospective buyers. Data from the American Institute of Architects indicates that outdoor kitchens are routinely ranked among the least desirable home features, which means homeowners should not expect substantial ROI when selling their homes. But that built-in fire pit? Estimates from the National Association of Realtors suggest fire features recover around 67 percent of homeowners’ initial investment. In addition, 83 percent of homeowners surveyed by the NAR who had installed fire features said they had a greater desire to be home after completing the project. • Space: An outdoor living space may only be as relaxing as the space allows. The proximity of neighbors may affect privacy levels, which can make it hard to enjoy movie night outdoors or curl up to quietly read a good book. In addition, landscaping also may need to be addressed if drainage is an issue in the backyard. That can add to the cost, and drainage concerns may limit the materials homeowners can work with. Outdoor living spaces are popular. Homeowners must consider various factors before deciding if such spaces are for them. 14
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Donna Sallen lic.#01488460
537 Del Oro Ojai, 93023
Welcome to downtown Ojai. Nestled in the hills, yet within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and Libby Park; this home blends the perfect mix of indoor/outdoor living. As you enter through the courtyard you are welcomed into the home with lovely glass doors and windows which lure you to the outside. An open floor plan with vaulted and beamed ceilings, large windows and three fireplaces. This spacious home still feels cozy as it is surrounded by trees and has a nearly 1000 square foot veranda for outdoor living. There are five bedrooms, a nanny quarters, amazingly large garages and parking - all gated and private. The land is just over an acre with mature trees, Majestic Oaks, and a variety of fruit trees. Once you are here you won’t want to leave. You will love the grown up tree house for those hot summer nights. Don’t miss this home!
“There’s no place like home – Let me find yours.” RE / MAX Gold Coast Realtors® (805) 798-0516
donnasallen.com • donna4remax@aol.com California 101 Real Estate Guide
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Patty Waltcher 25 ye a r s o f e x p e r i e n ce m a tc h i n g
p e o p l e a n d p ro p e r t y i n t h e O j a i Va l l e y
BRILLIANT CONTEMPORARY
This completely renovated, contemporary home on nearly 3 gated acres has fabulous 360 degree views and is totally refined in every detail. From the organic interior layout to the cultivated surrounding environment, everything has been finished with the highest quality materials. High ceilings, windows, and open, connected spaces create a light, airy atmosphere while extensive use of natural materials makes the home feel earthy and warm. 2100MaricopaOjai.com Price Upon Request
I will help you discover the home that brings peace to your mind and heart (8 0 5 ) 3 4 0 -3 7 7 4 ~ 16pa tty w a ltc he r.c om Ventura County, CA – August 2021
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