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CONTENTS
Let ter from the Editor
Departments 4
Letter from the Editor
Market Snapshot Possible Rebound Activity in Residential Sales
8
10
Feature Handle Bugs with Professional Treatment
12
Real Estate Spotlight Title Insurance Protects You and Your Purchase
14
October 2014 • Vol. 7 • No. 10 P.O. Box 24881 Barrigada, GU 96921 Tel: (671) 472-3495 | Fax: (671) 472-3498 email: office@yellowpagesink.com
Profile
|Publisher| |Business Sales Manager|
Lolita Camit GovGuam Retiree
Jay-R S. Dominguez
Continues to Serve the Public
16
|Editor| Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
From the Experts Integrated Pest Management Aids in Rodent Control
19
|Display Advertising| Evelyn Trinidad
|Traffic/Circulation Manager| Carol Aperocho
|Production Manager|
Home Finance
Mark S. Burke
ABC’s of Credit
|Graphics & Layout| 20
Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia
How to D.I.Y. Keeping Pests Away and at Bay!
22
|Editorial Contributors| Calvin Hernandez Siska Hutapea Arlene Taitague Taitingfong Ken Williams Kim Anderson Young
Curb Appeal Better Plant Care From Farmer’s Almanac
Cover Photo: Mark S. Burke
25
Who Ya Gonna Call?
26
Classifieds
28
Closing Guam Association of REALTORS®
Oops, we made a mistake: The September issue featured an article by Dennis Balagtas on page 16. The table regarding setback requirements for Commercial Use should read: Use
Front Yard Depth
Commercial (C) (none)
Rear Yard Depth
Side Yard Depth
20 ft. (6.096m)
(none)
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
Buenas CasaGuam readers! This issue is all about debugging your home — literally! With all the rain we have been having, it is no wonder that our homes are being invaded by all kinds of pests from ants to mosquitos. Read about how you can handle the situation and what resources are available to you. We have a few pest control professionals who give good tips on the subject. Our Feature includes an interview with Phil Hagen, Operations Manager of Pacific Pest Control. He explains how to detect pest damage, especially if you are planning on buying a home. We also have Ken Williams, owner of Top End Pest Control featured as our writer for this month’s From The Experts and How to D.I.Y. Read up on pests and find out how you can avert some of the problems we experience in our own homes. Our Profile this month is Lolita Camit, an educator who embarked on a new career as a real estate professional. Find out how she overcame her initial fear and dove into her new craft as a Realtor®. Also, read up on what the ladies of the Guam Association of REALTORS® have been working on. GAR President Louisa Wessling gives the latest information on legislative matters and upcoming village meetings. GAR Executive Officer Peggy Llagas delivers information about risk management, a topic we all can learn from. Kim Young gives an example of how title insurance protects our home investment in From The Experts, and Siska Haputea shares the latest market activity in Market Snapshot. As we enter into the holiday season this quarter, we will be looking at Home Safety and Interior Design in the next few months. If you have decorative ideas you would like to share, or tips on home safety, please send them to editor@yellowpagesink.com. We are always looking for local examples and ideas!
CasaGuam is Published by:
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
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.
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Market Repor t
Possible Rebound Activity in Residential Sales GUAM RESIDENTIAL MARKET CONDOMINIUM UNITS It is probably too early to tell if there is rebound activity in the residential area. There is definitely an increase in activity in the condominium sector - a sector that typifies the investment sector on Guam. The latest annualized rate for 2014 condominium sales (based on sales data through August 2014) increased from $31.0 million in 2013 to $51.8 million. Condominium sales nearly single-handedly increased the Guam residential real estate sales numbers reflective of the figures back in 2010-2011.
CONDOMINIUM SALES There were 161 condominium units sold between January to August 2014 which annualizes to a total of 242 units, a substantial increase from the 165 units sold in 2013. The more interesting trend is the increased numbers of off islands buyers. The five most popular projects for condominium sales activity are shown on the following summary table with accompanying graph.
Median price has also increased by 16 percent from $139,905 in 2013 to $170,000; although a disclaimer must be stated that the median price increase does not necessarily mean actual price increase. The median price is influenced by what type of units were sold during the period. In this case, the various units include the Agana Beach oceanfront condominium units, a $1.7 million Villa Kanton Tasi unit and a $931,000 unit La Stella Maris . These properties are included in the top priced condominium units sold in the first eight months of 2014.
SINGLE FAMILY SALES There were 358 single family residential units sold between January to August 2014. An average annualised number of 537 units, which is pretty much the same number of sales activity within the last four years. The median price for 2014 YTD for a single family unit on Guam is holding at the 2013 level of $200,000. The average annual sales volume dipped by minus 7% to $122.8 million. A $1M house was sold in Chalan Pago, which is one of ten in the $1M million dollar home bracket sold on Guam in last 10 years. Dededo remains the most popular area with 110 of the 358 houses sold within this municipality. 4 CasaGuam October 2014
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Market Repor t
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Feature
Handle Bugs with Professional Treatment By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
any of us have experienced the invasion of unwanted visitors, especially termites, ants and cockroaches We clean and spray, but they come back uninvited yet again! They creep into our homes, and under certain weather conditions, move right in and make themselves at home. Even the most cleanest home can have a problem. What can one do to control the situation?
8 CasaGuam October 2014
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Feature
Phil Hagen, Operations Manager of Pacific Pest Control, reported that it only takes 1/8 inch of an opening for termites to enter into your home Once inside, they find their way to your wood. The rainy weather attracts ants trying to find a dry spot. They trek through with their eggs in hand, marching over to a nice cozy spot somewhere inside your house, most likely your kitchen Roaches seem to hang out, even after home product remedies are exhausted. The best way to handle any of these pests is to seek out an expert. A professional pest control company is able to access the problem and offer a solution that will keep the bugs out and away. Hagen has seen it all. He has been involved in his family’s pest control business, which has been in business for over 30 years, since he was a teen, and has been working full time at this game for eight years. “We handle anything from ants to rodents, including cats and birds...anything that bothers you.” Hagen reported that if you are a homebuyer, a bank will request for an inspection report. This is when a professional pest technician will come in and inspect the home. If you haven’t reached that point in the home buying process and are in the house hunter mode, check the home yourself when you do a walk through. According to Hagen, for ANY home - new or old, closely inspect for infestation. This can be done by visually looking for deterioration or damage to kitchen cabinets, closets and interior door jams. “Knock on the wood,” instructs Hagen. “If the wood is soft, there is damage from termites.” You should also be able to see roach droppings inside cabinets. Additionally, check outside along the foundation’s perimeter. Note if there are ants or other pest problems, especially if there is an old or dead tree in the yard or if there is clutter along the walls of the home. Ants, termites and rodents love to reside in these areas. If there is clutter or piles of old trash alongside the home, there’s a good chance that these areas are inhabited. “Bugs like newly constructed homes,” says Hagen. “When constructing a home, make sure a contractor uses a pest control company for soil treatment BEFORE laying the concrete. A perimeter treatment is also advisable.” It doesn’t matter if you own a home or are currently renting - bugs are a problem. If you live in a condo or apartment complex, the problem seems more foreboding because the bugs seem to travel
from one unit to the next and come back again, like a nomad wandering the desert plains. Hagen shares a few pointers in controlling the pest population in your home. • Keep food in storage containers. This will protect your food products while keeping your food from spoiling. • Clean spills immediately. Ants love the kitchen and can detect even a crumb of food or the droplets of sweet drink that are left on the counter. • Store non-food items like clothes, holiday ornaments and the like in plastic containers. Using cardboard boxes for storage adds to the many places the pests can hide and live in. They will eat away and damage your precious items. • Get rid of clutter inside and outside of your house. Pests find these ideal living conditions. • Rotate potted plants. It can easily become a nesting site for ants if kept too long in its position. • Remove stagnant water, even in the coaster of your potted plants. It attracts gnats and mosquitos. • Move things around when cleaning. Just don’t clean around the furniture. Move the couch and get under there. When selecting a company to handle your pest control needs, Hagen says to look for a company that uses quality products and has certified employees. He reported his staff is very knowledgable and they have training every two weeks to stay abreast on the latest news in the field. One last note of advice. The holiday season is just around the corner and that means family gatherings and outdoor entertaining for most of us. Hagen suggests to “prep” your patio, balcony and yard by having a pest control company treat these areas the day before the gathering. Treating your perimeter will keep the bugs at bay and make your guests comfortable. There are many pest control companies to choose from. Find out if they offer specials or promotions that fit your budget. Check to see if they can come and take a look at your property at no or minimal cost and offer an estimate. Keeping you property free of pests enables you to enjoy your home and the outdoors.
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On The Cover
Outstanding Dededo Dream Home!
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f you have always wanted to own a new villa home in Dededo, Guam that offers superb space and polished finishing throughout the premises, then this is the house for you. This home is located on Wusstig Road and consists of four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The materials used to design and finish this home is top quality and offers the best of tropical living at an affordable price. The home was designed to host parties and social events, with an an outside BBQ area, built-in sink and outside bathroom. The property is fully fenced and has a double garage and electronic entry gate system. This is a one-story home and is totally accessible for all family members at any age. This home offers a gourmet kitchen with first-class wood cabinetry and polished granite stone countertops. This would be a perfect home for Veterans and professionals who want to be able to enjoy a property that offers the very best in real estate value in Guam. Call for a showing now. Special offer of 4% closing costs available to Veteran buyers from the developer.
CALL FOR A SHOWING AND FOR MORE INFO! 10 CasaGuam October 2014
Buying • Selling • Leasing Property Management & Development CALL US FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS! (671) 647-0888 315 South Marine Corps Drive, Suite 201 Tamuning, GU 96913 • www.ellensrealtyguam.com
Ellen Wilkinson Principal Broker 688-0118
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Real Estate Spotlight
Title Insurance Protects You and Your Purchase
By Kim Anderson Young
itle Insurance covers you for events that happened in the past, prior to your ownership of the property. Is this a little confusing? Here is an example of an actual claim paid by a title insurance underwriter on Guam which will help make more sense in the importance of securing one.
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experienced examiners, and how it can seriously interfere with the buyers intended use of the property. Experienced REALTORS® will recommend that you rely on an owner’s title insurance policy to protect your real estate investments against hidden defects in the title.
The story of the MIS-IDENTIFIED EASEMENT In 2002, our company handled the sale of a commercial property with warehouses located in the Harmon industrial area. The buyer planned on adding another warehouse in support of the quickly growing security company. A title search revealed a Grant of Easement for public utility lines along one side of the property. The buyer confirmed the exact location of the easement to make sure that it would not interfere with building plans and proceeded to close the purchase of the property. Unbeknownst to the title company, there were two very large concrete power poles, including guy lines and down wires running through the center of the property. The new owners asked Guam Power Authority to move the poles within the existing easement because of the building plans. Guam Power Authority refused, and produced a copy of a recorded easement in support of these two giant power poles. Upon closer investigation, it was discovered that the easement was granted by the general manager of the corporation that previously owned the company. Since the title was held in the corporation’s name, our searches were limited to the name of the company — not the names of employees or former employees. Additionally, the lot number contained in the recorded easement did not include our current legal description. The buyer had protected his investment with an owner’s title insurance policy. The title insurance company paid $25,000 to the buyer, which represented the amount the buyer requested to either move the power poles or redesign their building plans. Additionally, the title company paid all legal expenses associated with the issue. This example shows how a recorded encumbrance against the property can be practically undiscoverable by even the most 12 CasaGuam October 2014
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.
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Profile
GovGuam Retiree Continues To Serve Public
By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
W
“
Lolita Camit REALTOR®, RE/MAX DIAMOND REALTY
of the RE/MAX Diamond Realty family. “RE/MAX has stringent rules, but they are firm and it’s in black and white, plus they have training. Everyone is easy to work with and my fellow agents are like family to me”. She also added that apprehension will hold you back, and you need to have patience for this line of work. “My motivation is people and my satisfaction comes from seeing the ones I have helped happy. You also need to treat everybody equal and provide the best customer service”. When she is not wearing her REALTOR® hat, Camit lives and cares for her mother, Antonia, along with her four year old Shitzu, Bella. She also loves to go shopping as she finds it therapeutic and she is relaxed and not rushed. On occasion, she will take the time to spoil herself by getting massages and doing the “girly girl hair stuff ”. Hmm, and she thought the life of a REALTOR® was glamorous?
Advertising in CasaGuam has helped in getting listings!
14 CasaGuam October 2014
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When meeting Lolita Camit for the first time, I found a very enthusiastic and well articulated woman with a bubbly personality. I would have never thought that this well-awarded educator could ever have any fears, especially about becoming a REALTOR®! “Despite being an educator, my greatest fear was taking the Real Estate Licensing Examination,” Camit recalled. Although she had worked for the Government of Guam for 34 years and has been accommodated with significant training certifications and professional awards, she wasn’t sure if she could do this line of work. “Sometimes, we as individuals always sell ourselves short while others see the potential in the great thing we do,” she said as she recalled her initial experiences. It was her sister, Elizabeth Brooks, who was the driving force to get Camit into real estate. “My sister said, ‘Everything you touch turns to gold’ in her efforts to encourage me. She had the foresight to say that I could do very well in this business,” said Camit. To her, being a REALTOR® seemed quite glamorous with agents posting their pictures and information in the community. It was a distant dream she had as she contemplated retirement from GovGuam. Armed with motivation and determination, she plunged into the month long preparation and passed the class. “It was one of the best decisions I ever made,” commented Camit. Being a REALTOR® suits her. She loves being her own boss and dictating her own hours, but most importantly, she enjoys meeting and helping people. Having a vast contact list she collected from her last profession has helped her, along with her strong skill in sales. It has been a year since Camit became a REALTOR®. One of the first things she did once she got her license was advertise with CasaGuam Magazine. “I advertised with CasaGuam with no listings,” she said as she reminisced about her start. “Advertising in CasaGuam has helped in getting listings”. Her portfolio went from zero to many in a few months, and continues to grow to this day. For those contemplating a career in real estate, Camit advises, “Don’t come in with the mindset that this is a ‘get-rich-quick’ profession. You will need to work hard, put in long and consistent hours, keep the lines of communication open, and take all available training courses provided by your broker to be successful in this industry”. She added that she loves her job and being part
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From the Experts
Integrated Pest Management Aids in Rodent Control Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a term used by Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) to describe the process and techniques for reducing pest populations to an acceptable level. With an increased demand for lowimpact and environmentally sound techniques, the future of urban pest control will have to rely on a multifaceted approach to control pests. IPM aims to reduce the reliance on pesticides by employing others methods and tactics to solve pest problems. Listed below are the main options available to PMPs: • Biological control measures: Using natural enemies to reduce the target pest population. In other words, if you have a rodent problem consider getting a cat. • Chemical control: The use of chemical products (Natural or manmade) to reduce pest numbers. The Chrysanthemum plant is a natural source of Pyrethrum. Pyrethrins attack the nervous system of all insects. Pyrethroids are man-made pyrethrins and are found as the active ingredient in many pesticides. • Cultural control: Changing human behaviours and practices with respect to housekeeping and sanitation practices. • Mechanical control: The use of passive and active methods or devices to physically exclude or eliminate pests. Caulking is a good item to use to seal cracks, crevices, and small holes. Monitoring devices include glue boards, snap traps, electric insect traps and baited pheromone traps. Education is the key to having a successful IPM system in your residence. These practices and methods also apply to hotels, motels and restaurants. Pest Management in multifamily dwellings Multifamily dwellings (Apartments, Condos, Duplexes) can be some of the most challenging structures to service because of the close proximity of neighbours. This is due to variations in sanitation practices and the pathways caused by utility connections that are common throughout the building. The common utility connections (electrical and plumbing) provide easy access for rodents, cockroaches, ants, bed bugs, and a variety of other pests. One tenant may have food waste issues, junk piles or clutter whilst the neighbour next door or above has a very clean and sanitary home. It is not an uncommon occurrence for a pest control technician to be called to treat an apartment only to discover that the neighbour (above or below) is the true source of the infestation. Where do we start? The first step in implementing an IPM program in a multifamily housing setting is to identify and recruit all the key parties including the building manager, the building maintenance team and most importantly the resident. Education is the key to success. Education can come in many forms like meetings or providing printed materials with information about the most common pests, sanitation guidelines, fact sheets and the strategy to reduce pest numbers. If you live in a multicultural setting please provide the information in a number of appropriate languages. The residents that are more educated about pests generally accept a greater degree of ownership in curing the pest problem and achieve better results. The building maintenance team are also vital to a successful IPM program. Maintenance personnel can take these steps to keep insects and rodents from entering the building: 16 CasaGuam October 2014
By Ken Williams
• Fix broken windows, screens, and vent covers and holes in walls. A mouse can transit through a hole with the diameter of a nickel. • Immediately repair doors and windows that do not close properly. • Repair weather seals on doors and windows. • Consider automatic door closers for frequently used doors or doors that lead to areas where food is stored or handled and where trash is stored. • Do not leave doors propped open, particularly where food is handled or where trash is stored. • Place screens over air intake and exhaust vents. • Whenever possible use screens on doors, hatches, skylights and any other openings. • Check all plumbing and electrical penetrations and ensure they are sealed. Key pests to be on the lookout for are American and German cockroaches, ants, bed bugs, and rodents. (see photos in Ken’s email) Sanitation Sanitation practices and habits play a very important role in preventing and eliminating pests. Insects and rodents need food, water and shelter to survive. By eliminating as many of these resources as possible, tenants and building maintenance personnel can avoid most infestations. • Keep kitchen areas as clean as possible. • Wash and store dishes after each use. • Wipe down counter tops to remove crumbs. • Rinse and dry sinks every evening to eliminate the water source. • Sweep floors. • Mop floors once a week. • Use a trash can with a tight fitting lid or empty the trash every evening. • Do not store cardboard boxes. • Eliminate unneeded papers. • Do not store anything under the bed unless it is in a pest proof container. • Get rid of unused items. Excess clothes, linens, food, and papers are great places for pests to hide and multiply. • Inspect your property routinely for plumbing leaks. • Repair leaky faucets. • Check for sweating pipes. • Check seals on doors and windows for moisture. General housekeeping practices and education are the two key components to managing pest populations in and around your property. In this article I covered Integrated Pest Management, pest management in multifamily dwellings, and sanitation practices. Every property does present its own set of challenges with regard to pest management. I hope this information is helpful to you in an effort to protect your home and family. For more information please consult a Pest Management Professional.
About the author: Ken is retired from the U. S. Navy and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and an Associate of Science degree in Electronics. He is currently the Owner/Director of Top End Pest Control Guam and has been a Pest Management Professional for six years.
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Home Finance
ABC’s of Credit By Calvin Hernandez basic definition of credit is money available for a person to borrow. This borrowed money typically has some cost or rate of interest. Think of it as buy now and pay later with a fee. With a home loan, borrowers benefit from the use of the home immediately, with an obligation to pay the lender back with interest and within a specified period of 15, 20 or 30 years. Because the repayment time is lengthy and the loan amount for a home can be quite considerable, lenders must carefully examine if the borrower is financially capable of repaying the loan. One of the most important tools lenders use is the credit report. The credit report, which is basically your financial report card, will contain personal information such as your name, social security number, date of birth, address and employment information used to identify you. The report will include loan accounts that you have obtained in the past such as auto loans, personal loans, credit cards and student loans. Each loan is typically called a trade line, which tracks the detailed history of each loan such as when the account was opened, the amount borrowed, current balance owed, the payment amount required per month and, most importantly, the payment history. It also tracks if a borrower pays on time, or has 30, 60 or 90 or greater day late payments per account. In addition, a credit report can include public records such as bankruptcies, foreclosures, judgments or tax liens. It may also include collection accounts such as unpaid debts reported by other lenders. All loan inquiries, which the borrower authorizes, are also reported and tracked. So be aware that each time you inquire about a car loan at a dealership, shop online for a credit card, or sign up for a department store credit card, it can appear on your credit report. There are three nationwide consumer reporting companies depositories that track credit information; they are Equifax, Trans Union and Experian. These three credit bureaus utilize a 3-digit scoring system based on a risk model created by Fair Isaac Corporation generally known as a FICO score, which can range between 300 and 850. The higher the credit score, the better. Two of the major factors that affect the score are paying all bills on time and paying down existing debt. So if you are planning to purchase a home in the near future, make sure you manage your credit today. For more information about your credit report, please contact any of our loan officers and we can help educate you with our Free Smart Money Seminar – ABC’s of Credit.
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H o w To D . I . Y.
Keeping Pests Away and at Bay! odents and general pests (cockroaches, ants, and spiders) aren't simply a nuisance. These pests can severely affect you health and the health of others in your home. They carry diseases like Plague, Typhus, and organisms that can cause diarrhea, dysentery, and cholera to name a few. Listed below are a few DIY tips to help you keep pests away from your home. Although not a complete list, it's a great place to start in managing pests in and around your home.
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1. Seal cracks, crevices and holes on the exterior of your home, including plumbing and electrical penetrations. This blocks easy access points to your home. Remember, pests are lazy opportunists. Get a caulking gun and sealant from your local hardware store to complete this task. 2. Observe the "one meter" rule. Keep all trees and shrubs trimmed approximately three feet from the home. This eliminates some of the pathway's pests use to gain access to your home. 3. Keep your closets and pantry well ventilated and clean. Pests like cluttered dark and damp spaces to live. 4. Store garbage in sealed containers and dispose of it regularly. In essence, removing a food source and living space. 5. Repair damaged wood on door frames and cabinetry. Many pests are drawn to deteriorating wood. 6. Replace weather stripping and repair loose mortar joints. This removes easy access for pests. 7. Store wood products 20 feet from the home. This helps keep nesting pests and wood boring pests away from the home. 8. Ensure your roof and air conditioner drains extend a few feet out from the home. This keep moisture away from the foundation. 9. Clean, clean, clean: ensure your sink and counter tops are clean and dry before you go to bed. 10. Call a qualified Pest Management Professional for additional advice or treatment as required. These are just a few tips to help you reduce the number of pests that want to share your home. Please follow the label of any DIY pest control products you use. 20 CasaGuam October 2014
By Ken Williams
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Curb Appeal
Better Plant Care From Farmers’ Almanac
By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
ne of the best things you can do to create curb appeal in your home — inside or out — is to have healthy plants presented in all their glory. I’ve been struggling with trying to keep my plants healthy, but have only met with success with my latest plant which is a water lily. In an effort to attain more knowledge in keeping a plant alive, I came across this website and wanted to share what I learned.
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The following information comes off The Old Farmers’ Almanac website (some of us may remember the paperback version) www.almanac.com. I pulled the items which relate to our conditions and hope you get as much out of it as I did. Growing Tips for House Plants • Most flowering plants need to be within three feet of a sunny window. • Most plants require 12 to 16 hours of light per day. Water • More houseplants die from overwatering than from anything else. • Water plants with room-temperature water. • Add a few drops of ammonia to one quart of water used for houseplants; it will improve foliage color and increase growth. • Water houseplants in unglazed clay pots frequently. • Frequent misting under the leaves of houseplants will discourage spider mites. • If your houseplant leaves are dripping, even when you haven't watered, it's trying to rid itself of excess water (called gutta tion). This makes a plant vulnerable to disease-causing bacteria, so you'll want to avoid this problem by reducing the amount of water you're giving the plant. Also, watch those drips because they contain salts, sugars, and other organics that could stain whatever it is they're dripping on. 22 CasaGuam October 2014
Humidity • Most houseplants are happiest when the relative humidity is 50 percent or higher. • Group houseplants near each other to form a support group to cope with low humidity. Fertilizer • Fertilize your houseplants frequently to ensure vigorous growth. Pests • To get rid of bugs in houseplants, push a clove of garlic into the plant's soil. If the garlic sprouts and grows, just cut it back. • Spider mites are apt to thrive in warm, dry houses. Frequent misting under the leaves of houseplants will discourage them. A solution of 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup buttermilk, and a gallon of cool water, applied in a mist, is a good organic deterrent. • Your houseplants may sprout bugs once brought inside your house because they no longer have outdoor predators. • Remove aphids from houseplants with a mixture of equal parts rubbing alcohol and water and add a drop of dishwashing detergent. Apply this to troubled plants with a soft brush.
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W h o Ya G o n n a C a l l ?
C aptain REALTY
ADVISORS
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • SALES • LEASING
Call Nick at (671) 472-1819 or email nick@captainrealestate.com
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Classifieds Commercial Rentals
MongMong-Toto-Maite
Dededo
Economical studio unit. Completely renovated. All ceramic tiles, new cabinets, new split A/C, typhoon shutters & double paned windows. Call Deanna @ 688-2855.
Executive 2-story house with a great view, fully fenced and a quiet area. 5bd/3ba w/ 2 huge balconies. SS appliances, wash/dry, 2-car garage. Huge storage shed, a must see, Military OK! $3500/mo. Call Joe @ 483-3333!
Piti
Residential Sales
2BR/1BA Apartment. Close to Port, Naval Station, Polaris, Park and Beach. Ocean Breeze Apts. Max two tenants. $650 unfurnished. (Price does not include utilities) (Right across the beach!) Call 649-8265 or 727-8265
Barrigada
Two 2BD hse. 1 Full Concrete & 1 semi concrete in one lot. $96K. Negotiable. Call 727-4985.
Large 4BR/2Ba 1800sqft. House Only 248,000 637-7165 / 688-0887 / 689-3333
Tamuning
Talofofo
Dededo
Asan
Ipan home less than one mile away from the beach and golf courses. 2 story, 4BD/3BA plus studio. Call 707-6923/4 for more information.
Nimitz Hill, 2BD apartment including ocean view. $950/mo. Modern upgraded, all ceramic tiled, typhoon shutters. Call 687-6900
Tamuning
Multi-Family House/Good Investment located front of Dededo Mayor’s Office/Park & Library Greath Neighborhood / Gated/ Corner Lot/Serious Buyers Only! FOR SALE BY OWNER. Call/LvMsg 727-6456
Sunrise D Condo. Large 2BD/2BA. Pool. Very nice. 1,000 SqFt. $1,000/month. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-7700.
Villa Rosario Condo: 3bd 2ba Excellent Condition, Pool, Tennis Court, Play Ground. Good Location $160,000.00 Call 637-7165/688-0887
NEWLY BUILT TAMUNING VILLA HOME 3BD/2BA, 2 carport, fully fenced, basic appliances included (split AC, ref, stove, washer, dryer, heater, drain disposal) $2,500/mo. Call 727-7670 or 988-7671
Las Palmas Ph3. 3rd Floor. Large 3BD/2.5BA/2Den. Pool. Excellent Condition. $255,000. Call 637-7165 689-3333/688-0887
106 East Sta. Barbara, Dededo 4bed/1 ba corner house, fenced, and gated. Centrally located close to church, school and malls. Asking $1,200/month. Call MYRNA @ 488-0144
Ordot-Chalan Pago Commercial space for rent. Approx 850 sq ft., video store or retail business. Asking $850/mo. Please call ANGIE @ 727-2228
Residential Rentals
Barrigada 2b/1b, near Subway with water $830/mo. Please call 637-7165 / 688-0887 / 689-3333
Dededo 3BD/2BA, split type AC all rooms, typhoon shutters. 168 B Rizal St. $1,200/mo - negotiable (Sec 8 OK) Call 637-0949/686-6094/929-5310
San Vitores Terrace Condo-2bd/1ba, 3bd/2ba - walking distance to beach, rest/bars, church. Asking $950 $1800/mo. CSR- PB 649-6088
Harmon
Tumon
3BD/2.5BA Townhouse. Pool. Security. Tennis Court. $1,900/month. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-7700
Blue Pacific Lattice Condo. 2bd/1ba. Backup generator, securted entry, pool, mailbox, room A/C units, stove/oven, refrigerator. Call Deanna @ 688-2855.
Large 4BD/2.5BA. Single home. Pool. Security. Tennis Court. $2,450/month. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689.7700.
Yigo
Harmon Ct. Townhouse. 3BD/2BA. Sec. 8 OK. $1,200/month. Call 637-7165 689-3333/688-0887
Single Home. Excellent Condition. 3BD/2BA. Large yard. Good location. $1,400/month or for sale $200K. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-7700.
Pacific Gardens. 1st Floor. Pool. Security. 1BD/1BA. $47,000. Call 637-7165 689-7700/688-0887/689-3333. For Sale By Owner Summer Palace Estates Located close to Cost-U-Less in Harmon 4Bd/2.5Ba 2100 Sq. Ft. Home located in a secured gated community with swimming pool, tennis court, and playground. New granite countertop and tile floor throughout with typhoon shutters. $440,000.00 Please call 777-0951
Talofofo Two homes for sale! House 1: Full concrete, 2 bed, 1 bath House 2: Semi-concrete, 2 bed, 1 bath Asking $94K for both. Call owner at 727-4985
Exec. 2 Story/Very Spacious For Sale by Owner. Growing in a great location beside Cost-U-Less Tamuning and Guam Premium Outlet. Great lifestyle and community environment with 5bd/3ba corner lot; nice sized bd on 1st and 2nd flr; master suite w/ jacuzzi spa tub; quality granite staircases; red hardwood railings; crown molding all over the house with open spacious kitchen. Dream home and a good investment! Call/LvMsg 727-6456 Jonestown. 3bd/2ba, Large Yard. Fenced. $320,000 or $1,350 for rent. Call 637-7165/689-7700/689-3333
Tumon Tumon View Condo. 2bd 1ba. Near beach. $110,000. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-333 Lily Village Tumon Condo. Nice. 3BDM 2BA Fully Renovated. $2,000/mo.
Yigo 4BD/3BA 2 carport on a half acre corner lot. Fully fenced. Atis St. Ch La Chanch Yigo. $265,000. Call Joe. 488-4563.
Land for Sale Yigo
Ordot-Chalan Pago Chalan Pago 2bed 1bath SFD for sale. 1169sq.m lot Asking $119K. Call Karen 988-1883
5,545 SQ/MTR Off Rt 1, past Hillside Markiet. Water/power on site, paved access. $300K-negotiable Call 988-7671 or 727-7670
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Closing
Message from the President Louisa Flores-Wessling 2014 President
Message from the Executive Officer Peggy Araullo Llagas Guam Association of REALTORS®
Guam Association of REALTORS®
Hafa Adai, Recently the Guam Association of REALTORS® appeared before the Committee on Appropriations, Public Debt, Legal Affairs, Retirement, Public Parks, Recreation, Historic Preservation and Land, headed by the Honorable Benjamin J.F. Cruz, Vice-Speaker and Chairman, 32nd Guam Legislature. We gave testimony against Bill No. 379-32 and Bill 380-32. Bill No. 379-32 COR (RELATIVE TO DUTY OF LANDLORDS OF MULTI-FAMILY RENTAL UNITS TO INFORM TENANTS OF THE OCCUPANCY OF A UNIT BY A REGISTERED SEX OFFENDER. GAR recognizes the intent of this Bill is for the protection of the general public in regards to registered sex offenders. We agree with the intent, but oppose the language of the bill. GAR testified against it because if passed into law, it will require landlords to notify all tenants in a building within 24 hours of discovery that a registered sex offender is residing in the building. The Landlord will be subject to monetary penalties if they fail to do so. GAR testified that lack of clarity in the language will create further problems and confusion. If the bill is passed, it would be effective upon enactment. GAR testified that this would not be fair and reasonable and that there should be a period of notification and awareness for Landlords of the new requirement. Bill No. 380-32COR (RELATIVE TO LANDLORD-TENANT RELATIONSHIP AND PROTECTIONS FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, INTERALIA. GAR recognizes the intent of this Bill is for protection of victims of domestic violence. We agree with the intent but oppose the language of the bill. GAR testified against the bill because several concerns were raised in sections of the bill in relation to the rental agreement and security deposits, to name a few. I am happy to report that the testimony was well received by the committee members and that both bills were pulled back for further review. Chairman Cruz informed GAR that Senator Tony Ada, who introduced the bills, will be contacting GAR for round table discussions for further review and revising of the bills. Maybe a demise of these bills will be considered? We shall see! GAR appreciates and thanks our lawmakers for the the opportunity to work with them and look forward to the round table meeting. **GAR Housing Fair and Symposium Update!*** Date: October 25, 2014, Saturday Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM Venue: Micronesia Mall Focus: First Time Buyers, Owners/Sellers, Landlord/Tenants, Retirees Fair: Business' that provide services to property and home owners. Symposium: Morning Session - Your Credit, Renting vs. Owning, Do's and Don't Landlord/Tenant, Home Inspection Afternoon Session: Title, Escrow, Insurance & PTR, 1st Time Buyer Programs, Advice to Seller, Transition Planning, Wills vs. Trust. Consultation Corner: Meet with experts in the industry and discuss your questions and concerns. This event is FREE and will be informative! Mark your calendar and be there! I look forward to meeting you there. 28 CasaGuam October 2014
Independent Contractor Status FAQs KNOW YOUR POLICY • E&O insurance policies terms vary from insurance company to insurance company. Comparing policies and understanding your coverage requires you read the policy itself. When buying E&O insurance the broker must realize that there is not a standard form policy. Each company will have written their own policy form with its own description of the coverage and the terms and conditions of that coverage. WHO IS COVERED BY THE POLICY? • Will the policy cover the firm’s employees and independent contractors? • Are personal assistants covered if they are not employees of the firm? Determining who will be covered under the policy is an important first step. There will be the named insured (the person or entity in whose name the policy is obtained) and whoever is included in the definition of that term. WHAT IS COVERED BY THE POLICY? • Policy generally covers delivery of professional services by those insured • There will be exceptions to the coverage that are listed in the policy and these must be read and understood • Make sure the policy covers the aspects of the real estate business delivered by your firm • Don’t just accept exclusions that are important to your specialties, ask for coverage Although the insurance covers liability for professional services you must review the exclusions from coverage. Each policy will identify circumstances under which it will not provide insurance coverage. WHEN DOES COVERAGE BEGIN AND END? • Understand the difference between claims-made and occurrence insurance policies and which would apply to your policy • Make sure that there are not gaps in time when your coverage does not apply either before or after a new policy Most E&O insurance will be sold as a “claims-made” policy. This is in contrast to most other insurance policies with which brokers are familiar that are sold on an “occurrence” basis. HOW MUCH COVERAGE IS AVAILABLE? • The dollar limits of your policy should be appropriate to your business risk • What limits apply to the amount of coverage available for an individual claim • Is indemnity for any liability included or only defense cost • How will frivolous complaints be handled and can insured exercise any control over their settlement Understanding the amount of coverage is also important to understanding what is being purchased. While the face amount of the policy may be obvious, the insurance buyer should ascertain whether the policy includes a “per claim” limit and/or an “aggregate” limit for all claims during the policy term. Many policies contain both limits. DEDUCTIBLE EXPENSE • The size of the deductible will impact the cost and availability of the insurance • Deductible may be applied to an entire claim or just any indemnity that has to be paid One of the principal means the insured has of effecting the cost of the insurance is the deductible. In some markets brokers may find it necessary to accept substantial deductibles, essentially self-insure the amount of the deductible, in order to obtain affordable insurance against the possibility of a very large claim. OFFICE POLICIES OF THE BROKER • Strong risk management policies can help control the cost of insurance and may assist in broadening the areas the policy will cover • The portion of the premium paid by licensees and how it is paid should be explained in the office policies • Responsibility for paying the deductible should be a part of the office policy • Integrate your office policies with the insurance policies to assure they do not conflict Before beginning the process of shopping for E&O insurance the broker should prepare a summary of the office policies that have been established to eliminate or minimize situations in which the brokerage may be sued by clients or customers. COST OF THE INSURANCE • Start early so you can comparison shop whenever possible for insurance • Take control of the process by knowing who is reviewing your insurance needs • Use your office procedures to make you look like a better risk to insurance companies To get the best price it is sometimes necessary to shop with different companies. In preparing to do so the broker should identify all the companies offering E&O insurance in your marketplace and whether these companies are themselves good insurance risks as providers.
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
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