CasaGuam Volume 09 Issue 12

Page 1

CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page c1


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page c2


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 1

-

CONTENTS

Let ter from the Editor Letter from the Editor

Departments 4

Market Report July – October 2016 Real Estate Market

10

Update

6

Profile Anthony Balajadia December 2016 • Vol. 09 • No. 12

8

Feature Tis The Season For Giving Thoughtfully…Fa La La La La!

12

Real Estate Spotlight Bull Cart Trails & The Traditional Rights-of-Ways

P.O. Box 24881 Barrigada, GU 96921 Tel: (671) 472-3495 | Fax: (671) 472-3498 email: office@yellowpagesink.com

[ Publisher ] [ Business Sales Manager ] Jay-R S. Dominguez

[ Editor ] Arlene Taitague Taitingfong

[ Display Advertising ] 16

From the Experts The Importance of Title Insurance

John Mendiola Doris Pangelinan Emily Untalan

[ Traffic/Circulation ] Shaun Cruz

[ Production Manager ] 18

How to D.I.Y. DIY Holiday Centerpieces

Mark S. Burke

[ Graphics & Layout ] Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia

22

Curb Appeal Knock, Knock! Who’s There?

25

Who Ya Gonna Call?

27

Classifieds

[ Website Development ] Edwin E. Valencia

[ Editorial Contributors ] John Arroyo Siska Hutapea Jeremy Rojas Arlene Taitague Taitingfong Kim Anderson Young

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! The year is about to close out, but not before we do some holiday partying with friends and family! This month, we try to help out with gift giving ideas and holiday decorating tips, with a few interesting stories in-between. If you haven’t started your holiday shopping, or need inspiration on gift ideas, check out our FEATURE. There are gift ideas that are affordable and will be appreciated. Anthony Balajadia, our PROFILE this month, hangs his real estate license with Today’s Realty. He has a special way with his clients and is willing to share what he does to create a strong client base that gives him repeated business. What does your door knocker say about you? John Arroyo’s article in CURB APPEAL takes us back to (nearly) ancient times and goes over a bit of history. Our FROM THE EXPERTS writer this month is Jeremy Rojas. He shares reasons why a title insurance policy is important to every homeowner. Kim Anderson Young explains the Bull Cart Trails and the Traditional Right-of-Ways of the Guam Code Annotated. Read the full details in REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT. We also have our MARKET REPORT from Siska Hutapea, who reports that the market is doing quite well! Peggy Llagas also has very important information to share with our readers. Enjoy the holiday season with friends and family, and go one step further and give to those who are in need. Be blessed and thankful!

Cover Photo: Mark S. Burke CasaGuam is Published by:

28

Arlene Taitague Taitingfong

Arlene Taitague Taitingfong

Closing

CasaGuam Advertising Disclaimer All Advertisers agree to hold the publisher harmless and indemnify it against any and all claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses (including attorney’s fees) made against or incurred by the publisher, officers or employees with respect to, or arising out of, the content, text, graphics or representations of any ad published herein, including but not limited to the sole negligence and/or fault of the publisher. The publisher is not liable for any claims, losses or damages of any kind, arising from the wording, text, graphics or representations of any ad published herein, or the condition of the articles sold through the publication, or performance of services advertised in this publication. All advertising and/or performance of services advertising and/or submissions become wholly the property of CasaGuam Magazine. CasaGuam Magazine is a registered trademark of PTI Pacifica Inc. Copyright © 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. We reserve the right to edit or refuse any ad and to reprint any photo for promotional use.


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 2

2 CasaGuam December 2016


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 3

CasaGuam.com 3


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 4

Market Repor t

JULY – OCTOBER 2016 REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE he third quarter of 2016 continues the strong activity with $122.8 million in sales volume, an increase of 80 percent compared to the same quarter in 2015 which reflects $68.4 million. The highest transaction price includes the Tumon Bay oceanfront parcel adjacent to Hyatt Regency Guam. The 24+ acres of land sold for $34 million or nearly $700 per square meter, reportedly to a subsidiary of EVA Airlines. If all goes according to plan, we may see a new hotel on this site in the next few years. Other notable transactions include a 1.5 acres Agana Bay oceanfront lot at a record price of $601 per square meter. Just south of Route 8 in Maite, a 5,589+ square meter M1, Limited Industrial Zone land was sold in September for $152 per square meter. Former federal excess land continues to add inventory to Guam land supply along Route 3 vicinity and in Tiyan, east and west. A 22+ acres former federal excess land in Tiyan, sold for over $6.1 million. A couple other former federal excess land transactions are pending for sale in this area south of A.B. Won Pat International Airport. A Marine Corps Drive land across Micronesia Mall also sold for $1.88 million and you may have seen clearing activity on this site by now. A 9,500+ square foot metal industrial building sold in Harmon Industrial Park for $720,000 in October to an owner-occupant buyer. Another Harmon Industrial Park building that used to house an H2-worker lounge, but subsequently vacated, also sold to an owner occupant buyer in September. Two apartments sold in the third quarter of 2016 including the 6-unit former Lopez Apartment in Mangilao for $400,000, and the 5-unit former Gagarin Apartment in Agat for $225,000. On the residential sector, 94 condominium units and 240 single family dwellings sold during the four month period between July to October 2016. For the 2016 YTD, the total sales volume for residential sector increased by 7 percent compared to last year while the number of transactions decreased slightly by 4 percent. This is indicated in the increased median prices. The 2016 YTD median price for single family dwelling is $245,000 and the condominium is at $184,000. Both median prices are the highest since 2008. A moratorium is being proposed for development in the southern part of the island. Although good intention, careful attention is needed to avoid unintentional consequences, as it did when

T

4 CasaGuam December 2016

GWA put moratorium of development in the central part of Guam in 2008. We just spoke to a market participant that lost a $25,000 monthly ground lease due to the moratorium that was put in place in Tamuning. We only have less than two months left as of the writing of this article, but 2016 has surely been an exciting year for Guam real estate.


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 5

Market Repor t

CasaGuam.com 5


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 6

Profile

High Level of Service Gives Lasting Results

By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong

T

To be successful in the real estate industry, it helps to have a certain degree of social skills, but more importantly, you really have to like interacting with people. Anthony Balajadia displays this in his style of assisting clients. “I really enjoy meeting clients who are moving here for the first time,” said Balajadia. “I become their unofficial tour guide, taking them around the island looking at properties, while explaining the many things Guam has to offer.” During the drive around the island, he has a way of mixing business with pleasure. “I take almost every single client to eat at local restaurants and almost always end the transaction over a beer.” Prior to entering the real estate business, while attending the University of San Francisco, getting his degree in Kinesiology (the study of human movement), he worked as the head instructor on an indoor play space at Ghirardelli Square. He was tasked to develop a program that promoted movement and coordination for children ranging from one to five years of age. He returned to Guam in 2008 and started working for his parents, managing their investment properties. “I recall doing everything I could to properly prepare one particular unit. I was in there scrubbing toilets, floors, kitchen sinks, cleaning windows and everything you could think of. When we finally passed the inspection and the tenants moved in, I wrote a check out to our listing agent, who was not present at all while I was preparing the unit.” That was the moment that Balajadia decided to get his real estate license. “I figured I can do what they did, but do it differently.” He has been very successful in his endeavor to deliver a high standard of service to his clients. His dedication has resulted in a loyal and active client base that keeps him busy. Balajadia’s also recalls a memorable transaction that happened a few months after joining Today’s Realty. One of his calls connected him with an investor, which resulted in a big sale and a few more large transactions afterwards. His largest so far is over $5M. More importantly, Balajadia created a strong relationship with the investor, which continues to thrive due to his diligence and professional attitude. Although he is very successful, he doesn’t let it go to his head. Balajadia admitted that he will still scrub floors and clean units, if necessary, in order to help his clients sell or rent a property. He is that dedicated! “A lot of people get into this business because there is a misconception that it is fast and ‘easy’ money. Those people do not last very long in this industry,” said Balajadia. “A lot of work goes into growing and maintaining your client base, researching 6 CasaGuam December 2016

Anthony Balajadia REALTOR® TODAY’S REALTY

and expanding your knowledge from market conditions and real estate laws”. He reported that there are over 400 agents. That’s a lot of competition to be up against. His advice: “Learn as much as you can, find a great brokerage that is adamant on investing in you as a person. If you work hard, stay motivated, and have good leadership, chances of succeeding are greatly increased.” Balajadia is an avid CasaGuam reader. “It’s a useful publication that shows current market statistics and inventory. I enjoy the tips from escrow companies, landscapers, and other professions. Also, the magazine is a great tool for people who are not too familiar with the workings of a real estate transaction.” When he not going around the island showing properties, you will probably find him playing basketball or kicking back drinking craft beers with his friends. Why craft beers? He shared that he is also the general manager and part owner of South Pacific Ales & Spirits (also known as Craftguam on Facebook and Instagram). What he really enjoys, however, is spending time with his wife, Ann-Marie, and their two young children, Antonio and Sofia.


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 7

CasaGuam.com 7


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 8

Feature

Tis The Season For Giving Thoughtfully…Fa La La La La! By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong

hestnuts may not be roasting in a fireplace on Guam, but I’m sure you will experience the aroma of a roasting pig somewhere. Friends and family will gather to eat and drink. Afterwards, they will sit in a circle and open their gifts. Can you feel their excitement as they unwrap the twice wrapped, doubled taped packages with the big bows and flowing ribbons? Suddenly, you start to feel an anxiety attack come on as they unwrap your gift. Will they love it or not? Finding the right gift always puts me in an anxious mode. The concern has nothing to do with the giving - that’s the fun part. It’s finding the perfect gift. The key to successful gift giving is the amount of thought, not dollars, you invest in selecting that gift. If you find yourself unsure about what to get, the best thing is to give a gift for the home. It still is personal, long lasting, and useful. Here are a few ideas that are affordable, but thoughtful. 1. For the person who loves to entertain guests, serving trays, cheese platters with matching spreaders, or nice coasters, are always a pleaser. You know they will be used and any host will appreciate the gesture.

2. Soap/Lotion Caddies are a nice item to receive. Find one that is unique. The caddy will spruce up any powder room or can be displayed on a dresser or vanity.

8 CasaGuam December 2016

3. Luxury candles. Who doesn’t like a fragrant candle? They smell nice, look colorful, and can be placed anywhere in the home. They last long too, and can double as a source of light when the power goes out!

4. Do you have someone who likes to read in bed? A bedside pocket/pouch will be put to good use. It is placed between the mattress and the bed foundation and can keep items like books, magazines, tablets and headphones within reach. You can probably put small snacks in there too!


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 9

Feature

5. A terrarium is a great gift for anyone. Who doesn’t like a nice plant? You can make one at home very easily. All you need to do is fill a glass (or plastic) container with rocks, a bit of soil, some moss, and a plant. It is best to use air plants, succulents, or cacti. I’ve seen some terrariums as big as a fishbowl (they actually use a fishbowl), and as small as a mason jar.

8. Artwork. Whimsical pieces or framed pictures are always nice to get. These gifts add a touch of color and decor, and will always be admired. Most of us don’t take the time to look for our own decor and it is especially nice when we receive them. Look for them department stores, specialty shops, or furniture places.

6. I really love those little tidbit plates! It’s great to use for cocktail parties, or for everyday use. You can find them in different patterns. Get a set of 8 and stack them and secure them with a colourful ribbon to hold them in place. 7. Tealight candle holders. The key here is to find something different. Last year, I received a set of these. The bottom bowl is filled with sand and seashells, and the tea light holder is on top. It is a very pretty and unique gift. I love it!

Remember that when buying a gift, purchase something you wouldn’t mind being yours. If you like it, most likely, the receiver will like it too! CasaGuam.com 9


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 10

On The Cover

New and Modern In Astumbo his month’s featured house is located in Astumbo Dededo. Newly built, you have to see this modern designed home, with its exquisite attention to detail. It comes with custom closets, large kitchen cabinets, enclosed laundry and a covered carport. There is LED lighting throughout the house and energy efficient applicances. It is located near Astumbo Middle School, and is only a few minutes away from the fire station, local stores and a gas station. This beautiful 4bd/2bath home has 2,387 sq ft. of spacious living area. It is available to lease! See it today!

T

Why wait? Call now to arrange the showings! 104 Chalan Hachon, Astumbo

ML # 16-4049 MLS 116-40 16 1616-4 16-404 10 CasaGuam December 2016

• For Lease $4,400.00 • 4BD/2BA • Living sq.ft 2837

karen1282001@yahoo.com

988-1883

Karen Pan Principal Broker


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 11

CasaGuam.com 11


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 12

Real Estate Spotlight

Bull Cart Trails & The Traditional Rights-of-Ways

By Kim Anderson Young

I

In anticipation of the holiday season, my thoughts turned to turkeys and pumpkin pie, rum cakes and reindeer. Reindeer segued into caribou, which segued into bull cart trails! Bull cart trails fall under Traditional Rights of Way in the Guam Code. They are grouped with any roads, trails or easements that were in place during the Spanish administration and which was ceded to the US Government on the day the Treaty of Paris was signed.

What kind of access does your property have? If you don’t know, have a title company get a title report. They can go over the report with you to see where your public access and easements are on your property. Contact me if you have further questions about easements, rights of way or bull cart trails that might affect a property you are interested in purchasing.

21 GCA (Guam Code Annotated) states: § 65104. Traditional Rights-of-Way, Vesting. The Legislature recognizes that over the years the Public has made frequent and uninterrupted use of certain trails and bull cart roads providing access to the ocean shore and recognizes that such use has been legally sufficient to create rights or easements in the public through dedication, prescription, grant, or otherwise, and that it is in the public interest to protect and preserve such public rights or easements as a permanent part of the public domain. § 65105. Traditional Rights-of-Way, Maintenance. (a) It shall be unlawful for the owner, lessee, or tenant of any lands adjacent to or abutting the ocean shore to block, impede, or interfere with the public use of any traditional right-of-way. (b) It shall be unlawful for the Territorial Planning Commission to approve or permit any development of land which will result in the blocking, impeding, or interfering with the public use of any traditional right-of-way which provides public access to the ocean shore. Nothing in this Section shall prevent the Territorial Planning Commission from approving the development of land wherein an alternative perpetual right-of-way or easement in favor of the public and allowing access to the ocean shore has been duly recorded in the form and manner provided by law. Occasionally, a property owner will challenge the right of way created by a bull cart trail through their property. The result is usually that the owner must provide an alternate route for access. A good example is the old bull cart trails along Tumon Bay. Hotel developers worked with the Territorial Land Use Planning Commission to realign bull cart trails running along with beach to make the best use of the hotel site for our visitors, while Stockunlimited.com retaining the rights of access to the beach for the public. 12 CasaGuam December 2016

About the Author Kim Anderson Young, president of Security Title, has over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry. Contact her at kim@securitytitle.net or 647-8100.


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 13


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 14


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 15


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 16

From the Experts

The Importance of Title Insurance By Jeremy Rojas So you’ve done your homework, gotten approved for financing and found that perfect house. Congratulations, you’re taking the plunge and buying your first home. But this is just the beginning of the adventure. Now you have to decide on paint colors, appliances, furniture and whether the extra room will become her office or his man cave. For some reason, we men almost always lose this battle, but at least we get dibs on the garage. Buying a home is usually the single largest investment any of us will ever make. In purchasing a home, you will buy several types of insurance policies to protect your home and personal property. Homeowners insurance will provide protection against loss from fire, theft of property or damage caused by weather if you opt for typhoon coverage, and flood insurance provides protection against damage from rising water. Another important consideration to make is title insurance. Being unfamiliar with title insurance you may ask, “What is title insurance and how does buying a policy benefit me?” Unlike conventional insurance which protects against future events for an annual premium, title insurance protects you from past events up to the date when you purchased your property, which may affect the title of your property for a one time premium. By definition on Wikipedia, “Title insurance is a form of indemnity insurance predominantly found in the United States which insures against financial loss from defects in title to real property and from the invalidity or unenforceability of mortgage loans”.

S

There Are Two Basic Kinds Of Title Insurance: Lender’s Title Insurance Coverage Just as a lender requires homeowners insurance for protection on the asset on a property they have financed, 99.9% of lenders will require a lender’s title insurance policy as security on the investment they have in your property. Owner’s Title Insurance coverage An Owner’s title insurance policy is an optional purchase. In contrast to a Lender’s policy, which protects the lender’s interest for the time that the mortgage is in force, an Owner’s policy protects the owner’s interest. The policy protects you as long as you own the insured property and in some cases even after the property is sold. An Owner’s policy, though an extra expense, will continue to provide peace of mind even after you have paid off your mortgage. Here is an example why an Owner’s policy is a worthwhile investment in addition to a Lender’s Policy. Let’s say Mr. Cruz purchases a property with lender financing and exercises his option to buy an Owner’s policy. A few years after the purchase, an unknown heir to the estate of the previous owner’s estate emerges and makes a claim to the property Mr. Cruz has purchased. The Lender’s policy will kick in to defend to against the claim, if all goes well, the matter will be resolved without too much heartache. But what if the heir’s 16 CasaGuam December 2016

claim turns out to be valid? If the matter goes to court and the court rules in favor of the heir, the Lender’s policy will meet its intended purpose and protect the lender for the balance of the outstanding mortgage and possibly the legal fees for defending the lender’s interest in the property. But what about Mr. Cruz? He will be just fine. Because he chose to purchase an Owner’s policy his financial losses will be covered and though he will still need to vacate the home, he will be able to start over. Had he not purchased an Owner’s policy, Mr. Cruz would have lost his down payment on the property, the principal payments made, and he would have to vacate home with no compensation to start anew. The above example is something of an extreme case. Often times, matters involving title are smaller in nature and can be settled within a reasonable amount of time and expense without the loss of the property.

The Title Insurance Process After you have chosen your title and escrow company, your Escrow Officer will launch the process of getting you title insurance after your purchase agreement is signed and escrow is opened. Insuring title begins with a Preliminary Title Report (PTR). Your title company will conduct a search of public land records affecting the subject property. In this process the title agent will determine whether the property is insurable. The research conducted to produce the PTR is intended to identify any defects in the title. Once a PTR is complete and it is determined the property is insurable, your title company will issue a Commitment for Title Insurance. The closing can then proceed according to lenders and escrow instructions provided all requirements are met. A policy is created and issued after all pertinent documents have been recorded, demands are paid and funds disbursed.

What does Title Insurance protect me from? A Title Insurance Policy protects from claims of defects such as: • Another person claiming ownership or interest. • Improperly recorded documents • Fraud • Forgery • Liens • Encroachments • Easements • Undisclosed Heirs—other items that may specified in the actual title insurance policy. There is so much more to share on title insurance, but these are the main ones on this subject. I am hopeful this article will be of some to help potential first time homebuyers in understanding the importance of a title insurance policy and the protections the two types of policies provide. Your local title insurance and escrow professionals stand ready to answer your questions and to assist you with your title insurance needs. In closing, I would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. About the Author Jeremy Rojas is the General Manager of Pacific American Title Company. He has over 15 years of experience working in financing and real estate industries.


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 17

CasaGuam.com 17


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 18

H o w To D . I . Y.

DIY Holiday Centerpieces By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong

H

Have you decorated your home for the holidays yet? If the answer is “NO” because you have time or budget constraints, here are a few ideas that are fast and easy to create. I chose these ideas on www.midwestliving.com because they were projects even I can do. There are other ideas on the site for you to see. You don’t need to bombard your home with wall-to-wall holiday decorations to have a holiday feel. Placing a few centerpieces around your home will do. It’s all about color, placement, and creativity.

1. Tower of Color Last year, I filled a few fancy vases and pitchers with Christmas ornament balls. It was affordable because I already had the containers and the ornaments. It was easy to make and only took a few minutes to do. Use clear glass containers like a water pitcher or a vase. You can also fill the containers with colored beads, fragrant potpourri or even fruit, like green apples and/or red apples. Get creative!

of clear acrylic spray to avoid stickiness. Finish with ribbon and mint. You can also use the glass contained candles (like the ones at church) for this project using the same method, but instead of filling the vase, you’ll have a candle you can light.

2. Lantern light If you already have these at home, great! If not, you can find the lanterns at a name brand store on island, which are reasonably priced. You can place the lanterns on the dining table and decorate around them with fresh pine branches. You can also use leftover garland (the bendable kind works well) and decorate it with ribbons and bells.

3. A Sweet Idea Carnations top a rectangular glass vase covered with candy canes. Attach candy canes to the vase with a hot-glue gun; anchor flowers in floral foam. If you like, spray canes with coats 18 CasaGuam December 2016


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 19

CasaGuam.com 19


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 20

20 CasaGuam December 2016


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 21

CasaGuam.com 21


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 22

Curb Appeal

Knock, Knock. Who’s There? By John Arroyo

K

Knock, knock. Who's there? Megan and chicken. Megan and chicken who? He's megan a list and chicken it twice, he's gonna find out who's naughty and nice... If you changed out your electric doorbell for an old-time door knocker, what would it look like? Think carefully because your choice could say a lot about who you are to your visitors. I ran across an article on the evolution of the door knocker in which the author writes that you are performing a historical act when you use one. Door knockers have been around since there have been doors. Their origin has been traced to the ancient Greeks who felt it was more polite to announce one’s arrival by

knocking, rather than to enter without an invitation. Over the millennia that followed, door knockers proved most effective for this purpose, but they also evolved to serve a more meaningful function. In his research project on door knockers, Zachery McCune explained that the door is the center point of the home’s façade and the door knocker is the focal point of the door. Visitors form mental expectations of the owner through their experience of the home’s exterior and the door in particular. Owners influence those expectations by using a door knocker as a means to express their personalities, professions, values and beliefs.

Here are examples of a few famous door knockers and what they represent. Lions symbolize power and strength, and lion statues at gate entrances are understood to be guardians warning off all who would cause trouble. The lion head door knocker is thought to 22 CasaGuam December 2016


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 23

Curb Appeal project those same characteristics of the owner. The most famous of these is found on the door at 10 Downing Street, London, the home and office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Hand shaped door knockers can often be seen on the doors of followers of the Muslim faith. They symbolize the Hand of Fatimah. Fatimah was the youngest daughter of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. She is beloved and highly venerated by Muslims for her support and devotion to her father and for her proliferation of the Muslim faith. These door knockers are said to protect the home from evil if the fingers are spread apart, or bring good luck if they are closed together. The Sanctuary Knocker that adorned the northern door of the Durham Cathedral in north-east England was a symbol of safety and protection. In the Middle Ages, anyone unfortunate enough to be accused of a heinous crime, but fortunate enough to escape

pursuing accusers and employ the Sanctuary Knocker before being apprehended, was granted sanctuary within the cathedral walls. How would you express yourself through a door knocker?

Maybe these examples will help. The pineapple symbolizes warmth and welcome. Hanging a pineapple door knocker extends a warm welcome to all who visit. To early Christians, an anchor was the crucifix in disguise, and was used as a waypoint marker to secret meeting places. To seafarers, it symbolizes hope and steadfastness, attributes of Saint Nicolas, the patron saint of those who go to sea. An anchor knocker would signify hope grounded in faith. A ladder symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth so hanging a ladder door knocker would be like “Knock, knock, knocking on heaven’s door” as Bob Dylan would say.

About the Author: John Arroyo is the General Manager of Title Guaranty of Guam. He is a member of the Guam Land Use Commission and has been a financial institution executive and lender for over 25 years. CasaGuam.com 23


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 24

24 CasaGuam December 2016


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 25

W h o Ya G o n n a C a l l ?

472-3497 dvertising “Your Ac Spe ialist” Arlene Taitingfong Editor

Email: ataitingfong@yellowpagesink.com CasaGuam.com 25


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 26

26 CasaGuam December 2016


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:45 PM Page 27

Classifieds Commercial Rentals Hagåtña Commercial space for rent. 1,792 square feet. $3,500/month. Call Ellen’s Realty at 647-0888 for more details!

Ordot-Chalan Pago

Chalan Pago

Agat

Peaceful and serene 4BD/2BA home. 1,922+/-sf of living space. Upgrade master suite. 3-car covered car port. Call Suzanne @ 482-6426.

Pago Bay, Newly Built Home for Sale by Developer. Starting from $525,000. New subdivision, 2 story home, high ceilings, 3BD/3BA, 2 living rooms, dining room.

14,221 SqMtrs. Fairly level. $711,050.

Piti

Yigo Northpoint Commercial Complex Space for Rent. $1.80 per square foot, $0.60 per square foot for common fee. Call Rowena at 483-4317.

Almost one acre lot ready for farming or 2BR, Ocean view! Across the beach! Close to Port, Naval Station, Polaris, & Stores. Max two tenants. $700 (Price does not include utilities) Call 649-8265 or 727-8265.

Dededo

Agat Agat 2BR. Ocean View! Renovated! Ocean View BBQ Patio! Near NavSta, Port, Polaris, beach, stores, and schools! $1200.00. 649-8265 or 727-8265

Barrigada 4BD/2BAHome . Central living close to the airport, schools and shopping areas. $2,700/mo. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.

Dededo 5BD/5.5BA home. $4,800/mo. Call Ellen’s Realty @ 647-0888 for more details! 3BD/2BA home for rent. $1,980/mo. Fully renovated. Fenced & gated. Call Loisa @ 727-6880.

Nimitz Hill

Call Flora @ 727-2955.

Ordot-Chalan Pago

Santa Rita

880+/- square meter land in a great

Sinajana Holiday Tower Condo - 2BD/2BA. Corner unit. Ocean & island views. Upscale & upgraded kitchen w/ extra counter space & stainless appliances. $2,205/mo. Call Sandy @ 687-6006.

central location and immediately available 4BD/3BA upgraded home. Fully fenced. Minutes away from Naval Station. $310K. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.

Tamuning 4BD/2BA centrally located home for rent, along Carlos Heights. Tumon is closeby. Call Lolita @ 688-6743 or 479-8891 for more details.

Large 3BD/3BA home. Includes 25K generator, 650 gal water tank. $360K. Call Dennis at 727-3815.

Tamuning

Tecio Tumon Villa - Awesome 3BD/2BA unit in the heart of Pleasure Island. Walking distance to beaches, dining, shopping & more! $2,600/mo. Call Janet @ 687-1841. Tumon Horizon Condo - 2BD/1BA. Fully renovated & furnished. Water included. Call Weiwei @ 777-0688.

Yona 4BD/2BA Home. Peaceful and safe environment. Breezy and airy location. $1,500/mo. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.

Residential Sales 4BD/5BA modern home with spacious living area. Includes executive master bath with jacuzzi. Lot +/- 969 square meters. Price dropped to $508K! Call Karen at 988-1883..

to build. Quiet neighborhood but close to central shopping and business areas. $65K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.

Piti 24,173+/- square meter lot with partial ocean view for agriculture or developers. Close to Harbor, Port Authority & Naval Base. $846,055. Negotiable.

Tumon

Barrigada 5BR/4BA 3000f2 Officer/Executive House. 180 degree Ocean View. Watch The Ships Come In! Military Approved. Landscaped. 213 Mama Sandy Nimitz Hill. $4400.00. (MLS 16-2334). Call 649-8265 or 727-8265

dream home in quiet but lush area. $44K.

3BD/2BA home. Fully fenced. Price reduced. $305K. Call Ellen’s Realty at 647-0888 for more details!

Talofofo

Residential Rentals

Merizo

Ocean & mountain views.

Tamuning 5 contiguous spaces available right on Guam’s busiest intersection! Highly visible, ample parking, backup generator. $1,312.50/mo each. Call Sandy at 687-6006.

Call 649-2121 for more details.

Oka Tower Condo. 2BD/2BA 1st floor unit. Superb amenities. $298K. Call Sandy at 687-6006.

Call Flora @ 727-2955.

Talofofo

Tumon 929+/- square meter land for sale. Tumon Condo. 3BD/2BA. Great location close to restaurants, shopping areas, and minutes away from beaches. Grea investment. $150K. Call Karen @ 988-1883.

Quarter acre lot, rectangular in shape.

Yigo

Yigo

Wonderful 2BD/2.5BA home. 1,714 +/- sf living space. Fully fenced. $321K. Call Suzanne at 482-6426.

2,787+/- square meter land in the midst of quiet ambiance. Almost 3/4 acre lot just outside the back gate of AAFB. $105K. Negotiable. Call Flora @ 727-2955.

$57,400. Call Lolita @ 688-6743 or 479-8891 for more details.

Land for Sale Agana Heights

Yona

Lovely 1,640 +/- sm parcel fronting Chalan Macajna. R-2 zoned. Includes 2 lots. Close to the Firary. Rare opportunity. $169,500. Call Anthony at 688-8198.

One of seven lots and could become a developer’s dream. Located in the heart of Pulantat, Yona. 1,858+/- square meters. $50K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.

CasaGuam.com 27


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:46 PM Page 28

Closing

Message from the Chief Executive Officer and Government Affairs Director Peggy Araullo Llagas Guam Association of REALTORS®

Fiduciary Duites A real estate broker who becomes an agent of a seller or buyer, either intentionally through the execution of a written agreement, or unintentionally by a course of conduct, will be deemed to be a fiduciary. Fiduciary duties are the highest duties known to the law. As a fiduciary, a real estate broker will be held under the law to owe certain specific duties to his principal, in addition to any duties or obligations set forth in a listing agreement or other contract of employment. These specific fiduciary duties include: Loyalty A duty of loyalty is one of the most fundamental fiduciary duties owed by an agent to his principal. This duty obligates a real estate broker to act at all times solely in the best interests of his principal to the exclusion of all other interests, including the broker’s own self-interest. A corollary of this duty of loyalty is a duty to avoid steadfastly any conflicts of interest that might compromise or dilute the broker’s undivided loyalty to his principal’s interests. Thus, a real estate broker’s duty of loyalty prohibits him from accepting employment from any person whose interests compete with, or are adverse to, his principal’s interests. Confidentiality An agent is obligated to safeguard his principal’s confidence and secrets. A real estate broker, therefore, must keep confidential any information that might weaken his principal’s bargaining position if it were revealed. This duty of confidentiality precludes a broker representing a seller from disclosing to a buyer that the seller can, or must, sell his property below the listed price. Conversely, a broker representing a buyer is prohibited from disclosing to a seller that the buyer can, or will, pay more for a property than has been offered. Disclosure An agent is obligated to disclose to his principal all relevant and material information that the agent knows and that pertains to the scope of the agency. The duty of disclosure obligates a real estate broker representing a seller to reveal to the seller: All offers to purchase the seller’s property. The identity of all potential purchasers. Any facts affecting the value of the property. Information concerning the ability or willingness of the buyer to complete the sale or to offer a higher price. The broker’s relationship to, or interest in, a prospective buyer. A buyer’s intention to subdivide or resell the property for a profit. Any other information that might affect the seller’s ability to obtain the highest price and best terms in the sale of his property. 28 CasaGuam December 2016

A real estate broker representing a buyer is obligated to reveal to the buyer: The willingness of the seller to accept a lower price. Any facts relating to the urgency of the seller’s need to dispose of the property. The broker’s relationship to, or interest in, the seller of the property for sale. Any facts affecting the value of the property. The length of time the property has been on the market and any other offers or counteroffers that have been made relating to the property. Any other information that would affect the buyer’s ability to obtain the property at the lowest price and on the most favorable terms. Obedience An agent is obligated to obey promptly and efficiently all lawful instructions of his principal. However, this duty plainly does not include an obligation to obey any unlawful instructions; for example, an instruction not to market the property to minorities or to misrepresent the condition of the property. Compliance with instructions the agent knows to be unlawful could constitute a breach of an agent’s duty of loyalty. Reasonable care and diligence An agent is obligated to use reasonable care and diligence in pursuing the principal’s affairs. The standard of care expected of a real estate broker representing a seller or buyer is that of a competent real estate professional. By reason of his license, a real estate broker is deemed to have skill and expertise in real estate matters superior to that of the average person. As an agent representing others in their real estate dealings, a broker or salesperson is under a duty to use his superior skill and knowledge while pursuing his principal’s affairs. This duty includes an obligation to affirmatively discover facts relating to his principal’s affairs that a reasonable and prudent real estate broker would be expected to investigate. Simply put, this is the same duty any professional, such as a doctor or lawyer, owes to his patient or client. Accounting An agent is obligated to account for all money or property belonging to his principal that is entrusted to him. This duty compels a real estate broker to safeguard any money, deeds, or other documents entrusted to him that relate to his client’s transactions or affairs. - National Association of REALTORS® -

GUAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® The Voice for Real Estate on Guam Suite 236A Julale Center 424 West O'Brien Drive, Hagatna, Guam 96910 Office: (671) 477-4271 • Fax: (671) 477-4275


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:46 PM Page c3


CasaGuamDec16.qxp_Layout 2 11/23/16 2:46 PM Page c4


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.