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CONTENTS
Let ter from the Editor
Departments 4
Letter from the Editor
Market Report Market Snapshot: Buying A Kid–Friendly / Kid–Safe Home!
8
Child-Proof Your Home and Prevent Household Accidents
12
Real Estate Spotlight Contingencies in Real Estate Contracts
14
Profile Elisa Antoinette Arevalo It Started with Her Mother’s Dream
16
10
Feature
From the Experts Subdividing Your Land For Your Children
March 2015 • Vol. 8 • No. 3 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 ] Evelyn Trinidad
[ Traffic/Circulation Manager ] Carol Aperocho
[ Production Manager ] Mark S. Burke
18
How to D.I.Y. Prepare Your Home Before the Baby Comes
[ Graphics & Layout ] Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia
[ Website Development ] 22
Curb Appeal Garage Safety Basics
25
Who Ya Gonna Call?
26
Classifieds
28
Closing Guam Association of REALTORS®
Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia
[ Editorial Contributors Dennis Balagtas Anthony Godwin Mary Joy Sotic Arlene Taitague Taitingfong Kim Anderson Young Cover Photo: Mark S. Burke
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
Hafa adai Guam! Our March issue is all about our children. I hope the articles in this issue will give you a perspective of what to look for in a home, a baby product, as well as give you knowledge on safety features. I found through my research that the statistics of accidents involving babies and toddlers were high; most of the accidents were at home and could have been easily prevented if safety measures were taken. If you have small children or are a soon-to-be parent, read the Feature to get information on how to child-proof your home. DIY has tips on how to prepare your home before the stork drops off your little bundle of joy, and Curb Appeal instructs on how to make your garage a safer place for your small children. Our Profile this month is Elisa Antoinette Arevalo. Read how she takes child-safety issues very seriously, and how her store reflects that passion. Dennis Balagtas and Mary Joy Sotic give advice on subdividing land for your children in From The Experts. It’s a good read with information that you can use, even while your children are still young. Anthony Godwin gives tips on what to look for in a home if you have children (or plan to have children), in Market Snapshot. Kim Young covers contingencies in real estate contracts in Real Estate Spotlight. This is where “Plan B” comes in handy. Peggy Llagas continues with Part 2 of “A Buyers’ and Sellers’ Guide To Multiple Offer Negotiations.” A good source of information if you want to expand your knowledge of the process. Ryan J. De Guzman shares examples on why one should use a professional real estate agent in his message this month. We also like to hear about what you think of our magazine or if there are suggestions for topics. You can write to me at editor@yellowpagesink.com. Until next month, keep safe everyone!
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
Buying A Kid–Friendly / Kid–Safe Home! ou have made the decision to purchase your first home. You’ve decided on the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you want, plus the location you would consider. You have even been to the bank and have pre-qualified for financing. You are a PREPARED BUYER!
Y
As you have small children, you decided to buy a Kid Safe and Kid Friendly home! This makes you a SMART BUYER! Now it is time to visit the homes on your list of potential properties. As you tour these houses, check off the ones that match your Kid Friendly/Kid Safe requirements.
might affect the safety of your children and your family. Drive by during the day and night. 7) Checking windows for locking mechanisms. Make sure window blind cords are out of the way of small children. If not installed, you might want to consider installing window guards on higher floors after purchase. 8) Checking kitchen and baths for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt (GFCI) breakers. Local building codes require these to be installed in areas nearby water sources. Check distance requirements with Public Works department.
These requirements might include: 1) Checking the date the home was built. Homes built in 1978 and prior may have included lead paint in their construction. Federal law requires a disclosure form, as well as a pamphlet, in dealing with lead paint which should be provided to you. 2) Checking sidewalks, driveways and other surfaces for cracks, rises and holes that can cause tripping hazards. 3) Checking all railings and stair steps (interior and exterior) for stability. There are building code requirements for minimum distance between riser rails. 4) Checking if there is a fenced yard. This is a plus. A fenced yard is a good safety and security feature for your children and your pets, It keeps your children and your pets in, and unwanted animals and unwelcome visitors out. 5) Checking for homes with pools. Look for gated and controlled access to the pool. Check pool safety features. 6) Checking out the neighborhood for possible hazards that 4 CasaGuam March 2015
9) Looking for the fire escape route. After purchase, it is suggested that fire ladders be placed in each second floor room. 10) Checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. After purchase, replace all batteries and test regularly. 11) Creating safety plans for you and your family. Hold safety drills so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Some of these items can be incorporated into the home after purchase. The above checklist is a good start and is certainly not all-inclusive. Use common sense. Talk to your real estate agent. His or her vast experience with other buyers will be very helpful in your search for your Kid Friendly/Kid Safe Home! Questions? Suggestions for future articles. Email me at Anthony@guamhome.com or give me a call at 671-688-8198. Check my web page at http://www.guamre.com
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Market Repor t
January 1, 2015 through February 22, 2015
Condominiums/Town Houses and Apartments Top Condominium/Townhome Sale Tumon Blue Pacific Lattice – $350,000.00 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths • 1,265+/- Sq Feet
Condominium/Townhouse For Sale
Average Sold Price:
Average Days on Market:
$153,848.00
122
Number of units Sold
29
Number of units currently for sale:
128
Condominium/Townhouse/Apartments For Rent Average Rented Price:
Average Days on Market:
$1501.00
66
Number of units Rented
141
Number of units currently for rent:
210
Disclaimer: All information provided is from the Guam Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for the period January 1, 2015 through February 22, 2015.
Single Family Homes
Top Single Family Home Sale Ordot-Chalan Pago – $720,000.00
4 Bedrooms/4.5 Baths • 3,352+/- Sq Feet Single Family Homes For Sale
Average Sold Price:
Average Days on Market: Number of units Sold
Number of units currently for sale:
$269,301.00
184
38
226
Information compiled from records of the Guam Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
Single Family Homes For Rent
Average Rented Price:
Average Days on Market: Number of units Rented
Number of units currently for rent:
$2,236.00
63 90
133
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Feature
Child-Proof Your Home and Prevent Household Accidents By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
ost childhood accidents occur in the home. It’s the place where they run around most and explore. Most injuries are predictable and preventable. Unintentional injury is the leading cause of death in children 14 years old and under; more than a third of these injuries happen at home. According to www.kidshealth.org, household injuries are one of the top reasons children under age three visit the emergency room, and nearly 70% of the children who die from unintentional injuries at home are under five years of age. Young children have the highest risk of being injured at home because that's where they spend most of their time. As a parent, try to make the home environment as safe as possible before your baby arrives and again before your child starts crawling. This requires making changes in your home.
Preventive measures Supervision is the best way to prevent injury, but even the most watchful parent can’t keep children completely safe. Reduce the risk of injury. The best way is to remove a potential hazard or dangerous item, or add a suitable safety product. If you have small children, make your home child-proof and safe for them to move about. Common causes of home-injury deaths are fire and burns, suffocation, drowning, choking, falls, poisoning, and firearms. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that most home accidents happen where there may be: water: in the bathroom, kitchen, swimming pools, or hot tubs. Keep an ever watchful eye on babies and small children where water is involved. Don’t fill up bathtubs with water that surpass the child’s waistline. Make sure there is a pool fence guarding the pool area. Add a pool cover if the pool is unattended. heat or flames: in the kitchen or at a barbecue grill. Little ones tend to mimic what they see. If you are cooking on the stove, make sure all handles are pointed inward. A curious toddler might be tempted to grab the handle of that boiling pot of water. Teach them to not touch a hot stove or oven.
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toxic substances: under the kitchen sink, in the medicine cabinet, in the garage or garden shed, or even in a purse or other place where medications are stored. Cleaning solutions stored under the sink are easily accessible to toddlers who crawl around on the floors. If they are at that age where opening and shutting cabinets is fun, it’s time to get child-proof latches. The pretty colors of dish soaps and cleansers may mean experimenting with putting the bottles to their mouths, which may result in a fatal outcome. Your purse is like a treasure chest — full of wonderful and shiny things. A prescription may look like candy to a youngster. Keep the purse high and away from inquisitive eyes and hands. potential for a fall: on stairs, slippery floors, from high windows, or from tipping furniture. Invest in child gates for stairs. Rethink furniture choices, especially if you they have pointy corners or glass edges. You might want to rearrange furniture while you’re at it. Check into the child pads for the floor. They are soft and come in colorful patterns and is a great focal point for a playing area. Baby Furniture and baby products You will eventually need to acquire baby furniture like cribs, playpens,
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Feature strollers and the like. Not all are created equal. According to Elisa Arevalo, owner of Procreate, a baby specialty store, it is important to visit an actual shop and view the products physically. “This will let you see the product, understand what you are investing in, and get all your questions answered.” Arevalo has four young children of her own, and her store has a full range of mother and baby merchandise. Her product selection offers the most safest products for infants to toddlers. She recommends furniture that is versatile and user friendly, keeping the safety of the baby in mind. For the past 6 years she has been recommending and using the original convertible “Co-Sleeper.” “The Co-Sleeper converts to a small play yard with lockable wheels. It is light enough to take anywhere.” Arevalo explained that having the baby nearby will lessen the amount of separation and anxiety the child may experience. She states that there are many play yards available, but it is important to base your investment on one that will meet several of your needs and is a properly tested product. Another important piece of keeping baby safe is the carrier. It needs to be strong and ergonomic. “The only baby carriers I recommend at this point are the Britax Baby (Toddler) Carrier and the Ergo Baby (Toddler) Carrier. These are the only two baby carriers that will ergonomically protect your infant and toddler's spinal cord, lower back, and limit neck strain. Also, these are the only two carriers that will comfortably distribute your child’s weight evenly, and have ample padding around the parents' shoulders, so as not to create serious oxygen and blood circulation blockage,” explains Arevalo. “You can carry your infant into the toddler years with plenty of comfort and security with only these two brands”. She warns that the buyer be aware of other “wraps” and “slings”. Although they may look attractive and have an inexpensive price tag, they do not protect your child’s spinal cord. “Items that are handmade have not been properly tested or researched, and with anything that transports, carries, and secures your child, that should always be the top concern.” Televisions and Toddlers Televisions are a source of entertainment, but they can also be a source for accidents if you have toddlers and small children. Who would have thought that a simple television could cause physical injury or caus fatality in a home? I was shocked to find out that it has been reported that a television, furniture, or appliance toppling over and crushing a child happens more often than we think. The Consumer Product Safety Division reported an estimated annual average of 38,000 emergency department-treated injuries (2011-2013) and 430 reported fatalities associated with television, furniture, and appliance tip-overs occurred between 2000 and 2013. With one or more television sets in homes today, the possibility of tip over accidents increased where little ones are involved. The circumstances that result in a television toppling on a child are sometimes unknown because, usually, there are no adult witnesses until after they hear a loud crashing sound. The most typical scenario is when a child is playing alone and pulls on the dresser drawers or the furniture hardware like handles or knobs. The child can also pull out the drawers and use them as steps to climb the furniture. In all cases, the furniture is stressed and it becomes front heavy, causing it and/or the television to fall on the child. The results can be fatal, especially if you have the old CRT television sets. They are heavy and bulky. If you have the newer, slimmer televisions (FS Television), a child is still not safe if it should fall. Depending on the size of the picture tube, the televisions can weigh between 75 lbs to 150 lbs.
Be ever vigilant of children between the ages of one and four years old. They are in the stage of life when they are inquisitive, mobile, and their imaginary world becomes real with the help of couches, tables, appliances and yes, televisions. To them, they may be climbing a mountain. Heck! Let’s face it, children in this age group can be all over the place if you don’t keep a watchful eye on them. We have all witnessed the unending energy of young children. They jump, run and climb everything. It’s a mystery to me how parents deal with it, especially if they have more than one toddler. The most inquisitive of these are the two and three year olds. According to the CPSC website, they account for most of the televisionrelated injuries, 2,100 and 1,800 injuries, respectively. An estimated 1,700 children were injured when a television and furniture both fell. PREVENTING TIP-OVERS (information from the CPSC website): Place the television on sturdy furniture appropriate for the size of the television or on a low-rise base. Secure the television to the furniture with straps, brackets, or braces to prevent the television from sliding. Mount flat-screen televisions to the wall or to furniture to prevent them from toppling over. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you have a secure fit. If you have a large, heavy CRT television, place it on a low, stable piece of furniture; or if you no longer use it, consider recycling it. Secure top-heavy furniture to the wall with brackets, braces, or wall straps. Place electrical cords out of a child's reach, and teach kids not to play with them. Remove items that might tempt kids to climb, such as toys and remote controls, from the top of the television and furniture For more information on the television tests performed by CPSC, and additional statistics, check out their website at www.cpsc.gov. It is always important to keep an eye on our children. They will get hurt when they play. It is a part of growing up. We can lessen the chances of severe injury and possibly death, by being alert and investing in preventive measures. Anchoring the furniture takes little time to do and does not cost much. It will give you peace of mind and possibly save a life. Other great child-proofing ideas include installing knob covers on doors and outlet covers on all electrical outlets. Keep guns, choking hazards, and sharp items out of reach! Arevalo says, “Installing proper drawer and cabinet securing devices is the easiest thing a parent can do to prevent a curious tot from accidentally coming into contact with toxic substances, chemicals or plastic bags. I try to put all sharps, paints, makeup, cleansers — everything that can be hazardous on a child's skin or be accidentally ingested — into a cabinet or drawer and lock them up with affordable cabinet secure locks. The ‘Extra Guard’ locks are inexpensive. They do not damage your furniture and are easy to install without any tools.” And since we’re talking safety. . . Accidents are bound to happen. It is best to be prepared having the following: 1. First Aid Kit 2. Doctor and hospital numbers 3. Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers 4. Knowledge of CPR and the age appropriate Heimlich maneuver Whether you are a first time parent or already have a family, it is always best to be informed of the latest safety information. Arevalo suggests, “It is always best to come in and get face to face support from experienced parents who can help alleviate all your fears and offer practical advice.”
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On The Cover
Yigo: Perfect Location! his custom built home is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath residence located in the rapidly developing village of Yigo. The open concept home also has high ceilings and many windows throughout, enabling natural light and air flow. The custom kitchen has granite countertops, ceramic and mosaic tiles and high end fixtures. LG and Whirlpool brand steel kitchen appliances are included. The living area of the home is 1,800 square feet and it has a great two car garage with additional storage space. The outside area has a tiled covered patio designed for hosting intimate gatherings or large parties. Schools, churches, and shopping are only minutes away.
T
Vic Reyes REALTORÂŽ
483-7518 vcreyes@yahoo.com
10 CasaGuam March 2015
BRAND NEW! $379K 3BR • 2.5BA MLS #14-2884
Realty Management Company
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Real Estate Spotlight
Contingencies in Real Estate Contracts I
By Kim Anderson Young
t is very common for a property purchase offer to contain one or more contingencies.
Webster’s dictionary defines contingencies as: 1. Depending on the fulfillment of a condition. 2. a contingent event; conditional on something uncertain. 3. something incidental to another event. Let’s explore what some of these are in real estate are.
Loan Approval. If you are the seller, you should be aware that the buyer’s application for the loan is not a guaranteed approval. Most banks will issue the buyer a conditional approval that will give the seller some comfort that the buyer is qualified for the loan. The conditional loan approval, however, may also contain contingencies. The loan will certainly be conditioned upon proving that the buyer’s income is sufficient to repay the new loan, along with all other expenses for which the buyer is liable. Sale of Current Home. The sale of the buyer’s current home is a very common contingency. This can be a significant issue in a transaction, depending on the current real estate market and how long houses are taking to sell. Your real estate agent can guide you through this process. They will be able to provide very valuable insight as to how much time it can take to sell the existing home, and what amount of money you can expect to earn from the sale. Status of Title. Another contingency on a purchase agreement is the title report issued by the title company. Title reports disclose items that affect the property. Make sure there are no items that might affect your use of the property. For example: • If there is a lease on the property that does not expire for 10 years, it may interfere with your plan to build your dream home. • If there is an easement going through the middle of the property, it may also interfere with where you plan on building your dream house. The number of contingencies vary and is unique to each situation. Use your real estate agent’s expertise to make informed decisions regarding contingencies in your real estate contracts! A title company’s job is making sure you actually own the property you just bought! 12 CasaGuam March 2015
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
It Started with Her Mother’s Dream
By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
I
It takes much time and effort to run a retail store. It takes even more time and energy to raise four children! Elisa Antoinette Arevalo is a bright and energetic entrepreneur who manages to do both. On a daily basis, she juggles her time and energy between her husband, her four children ranging from 9 months to six years old, and her retail shop, Procreate. Procreate is a baby boutique that specializes in everything from pre-natal support products, baby carriers to clothing, and then some. Her retail experience started 19 years ago when she worked for Ben Franklin in sales and as a merchandiser. Her first job in the baby product industry was store manager for Baby Bellini in Marina del Rey, California. Arevalo shared that initially, it was her mother’s dream to have a specialized baby store for Guam. Several years later and after holding key positions in other brand retail chains, she decided to take her mother’s dream to open a store, and make it her dream. It wasn't difficult to get into the baby business. As far as products go, she had experience with child-rearing even before she started having a family of her own. Arevalo recalls helping her mom take care of her baby brother. Seventeen years old at the time, she would research the latest baby products and select items that were safe and properly tested to ensure they were getting quality merchandise for her younger sibling. Her research and study of quality products continued when she started her own family. This developed skill gave her the necessary knowledge to apply in achieving her mother’s dream — her dream now — into the successful business that Procreate has become. “People want to have options,” Arevalo said. “They shouldn’t have to look only at the internet to get information. We give them the opportunity to see the product.” Procreate is also the official dealer/retailer for Medela, Ameda and Orbit brand merchandise. Her criteria for products to make it into her store is simple. They need to be toxin-free, have the ability to increase the amount of nurture time between parents and baby, and have the highest rating in quality and US standards. Her advice to those shopping for their baby needs is to buy from a reputable store that carries bona-fide products. “There are counterfeit products being sold on-line,” warns Arevalo. “Also look for properly tested products that meet US standards. Don’t let the color or the price be your deciding factor. Safety is an issue that is foremost when it comes to children!” She added, “There 14 CasaGuam March 2015
Elisa Antoinette Arevalo OWNER PROCREATE
are a lot of ‘hype’ products that I will not carry in my store because of safety issues.” When looking for products, she advises to select items that can accommodate each stage of growth from infancy to toddler. If you are not sure what to look for, visit Arevalo at Procreate on the first floor of the Julale Shopping Center. She will be able to help you in your search. When she is not at the boutique, Arevalo enjoys taking care of her children, Juilette, Demarco, Chiara and Ronin, and her husband, Evert. Eating with her family and parents is something she likes to do, too. As for sleep, she literally dreams of products she would like to bring to Guam. “That’s the truth!” says Arevalo. I guess this venture is a “dream come true” for her.
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From the Experts
Subdividing Your Land For Your Children
By Dennis Balagtas and Mary Joy Sotic
any families dream of giving land to their children. For those who already have property, one way to accomplish this is through a parental subdivision survey. While they have certain restrictions, these “subdivisions” provide a few advantages over other forms of parceling and subdivision surveys.
M
A parental subdivision survey allows parents to take a portion of their property and give it to their children. In many cases, properties that are normally deemed “unsubdividable” can qualify for parental subdivision surveys. Many properties cannot be subdivided in the usual way because the property may be too small and/or do not have access to sewer. However, through a parental subdivision survey, it might be possible to subdivide these properties and give one new lot to your child. Example of a parental subdivision property:
Parental subdivision surveys do have certain restrictions. The child given the property cannot sell it or transfer it for five years from the date of the parental subdivision survey. The child needs to be at least 18 years old and should be a resident of Guam. You cannot mix the title of the child property either; you must give one property to one child. For example, you cannot give two children the same property. If there are any existing houses on the property, the property lines must be created around those houses so that the newly subdivided lots meet setback requirements. If that is not possible, the lot cannot be subdivided. While these restrictions do place a limit on your options, the child can use the property as collateral for a loan to build a house. To start a parental subdivision, a survey must be done for the property by a licensed professional land surveyor. A preliminary parental subdivision survey map is then submitted to the Department of Land Management to ensure it meets requirements and regulations. After it meets requirements, the final parental subdivision map, Deed of Gift (to the child), and other documents are prepared, signed, and recorded at the Department of Land Management. This process can take several months, so it 16 CasaGuam March 2015
is best to plan ahead in case of impending events (such as a child getting married). To find out more about what options are available for you through a parental subdivision, talk to a licensed professional land surveyor. They can help guide you through the process, tell you about the pros and cons of the parental subdivision, and help you check if your property and situation can qualify for a parental subdivision. A list of the professional land surveyors can be obtained from the Board of Professional Engineers, Architects, and Land Surveyors at www.guam-peals.org. Being able to subdivide land and bestow your land to your children can provide a great investment for their future. It is highly recommended that you contact a professional land surveyor for consultation if you are interested in having your land subdivided. They will be able to come up with a subdivision plan and the necessary deeds. About the Author Dennis Balagtas, P.L.S. #75 has over 20 years of experience as a land surveyor and is VicePresident of Prudencio R. Balagtas & Associates, Inc. which has been in business since 1987. Dennis Balagtas and Mary Joy Sotic are co-founders of Guam Surveyor, LLC.
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H o w To D . I . Y.
Prepare Your Home Before the Baby Comes
By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
ongratulations! You are about to have a baby! Changes, aside from the mother’s body, will take place in nearly every aspect of your life. Although you might not want to, you will need to change out your sports car for a sedan, purchase baby furniture, and swipe out your art deco coffee table (you know, the one with the sharp edges) for round-edged tables and cushy sofas. There is a lot to think about before the baby is born. The most important place to start is your home. Here is a checklist which I found on the internet which you can refer to before the stork arrives.
C
AROUND THE HOUSE Carbon monoxide • Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors if you use gas or oil heat or have an attached garage, and check the batteries twice a year. Fire prevention • Install and maintain working smoke detectors; check monthly. • Keep a fire extinguisher on hand. • Plan a fire escape route. • Keep night lights away from curtains and bedding; use cool night lights that don't get hot. First aid • Assemble a first-aid kit for babies. • Post emergency numbers next to your telephone. Poison control • Put childproof locks on all cabinets containing poisons, medicines, and cleaning supplies. Lead paint • If paint is flaking or peeling, have a professional remove or seal it. Furniture • Cover sharp furniture edges with padding or bumpers. Rugs • Put nonslip pads under area rugs that don't have nonslip backs. Water safety • Set your water heater no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48 degrees Celsius). • Use an infant bathtub with contours or other features that make it slip-resistant. NURSERY Bassinet • Has sturdy bottom and wide, stable base. • Surfaces are smooth; no sharp protrusions. • Legs lock securely. • Mattress is firm. • Mattress fits snugly. • Avoid soft, fluffy bedding such as pillows, comforters, or sheepskins. Changing table • Has a safety strap. 18 CasaGuam March 2015
• Table is sturdy, with a 2-inch guardrail around all four sides. • Top of table is concave, so that the middle is slightly lower than the sides. • There's a place to keep baby wipes and other supplies within your reach but out of your baby's. • Has a carpet or rug below in case of a fall. Crib • Slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. • Mattress is firm. • Mattress fits snugly (less than two fingers' width between mattress and side). • Avoid soft, fluffy bedding such as pillows, comforters, or sheepskins. • Is positioned away from windows, heaters, lamps, wall decora tions, cords, and climbable furniture. • All hardware, including nuts, bolts, screws, plastic parts, and so on, is included with crib – never substitute original parts with hardware store items. • Meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards issued in June 2011. Windows • Corner posts are 1/16 inch or shorter (or 16 inches or higher if there is a canopy). • Has no decorative cutouts that can entrap baby's head. • Install window guards or window stops. • Cut looped window blind cords; use safety tassels and inner cord stops. Outlets • Install plates that slide closed over outlets. AWAY FROM HOME Car • Purchase a car seat intended for infants. • Install it properly, in rear-facing position in middle of back seat. • Keep towels in the car; roll up and use to position baby or wedge under car seat. • Practice removing and reinstalling car seat correctly. Nice to have: • Window shades to block the sun. GENERAL SAFETY First aid • Take an infant CPR class in your home. Since you have nine months to prepare for baby, it would be best to start making the changes around our home immediately. Being prepared ahead of time will lessen the stress. Once the baby comes home, you will not have time to delve into the projects that need to be addressed. For more about child safety, check out www.parents.com. There is additional information on the site that will help you with your transition into parenthood.
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Curb Appeal
Garage Safety Basics Excerpt from www.parents.com f you think about what's in your garage, workshop, or storage shed for a moment, it quickly becomes clear that it's a potentially hazardous environment for children. These spaces house not only a car, but often sharp tools and implements, toxic and flammable substances from insecticides and fertilizers to pest poisons and gasoline, perhaps empty bottles and cans, plus countless items that could fall over onto a child and cause injury. Even the garage door can be dangerous.
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The garage generally is not a safe place for an unsupervised young child to be, and it is best to keep it off-limits. That doesn't preclude taking the following precautionary measures to prevent accidents. Use cabinet and drawer latches and electrical outlet covers as you would in other parts of the house, and keep hazardous implements and substances safely locked away. Don't leave lengths of rope lying around or hanging down from hooks. Store ladders in a horizontal position so a child cannot climb up them. Disconnect power tools when not in use. Plug locks are available that attach to cords and prevent their insertion into electrical outlets. Properly dispose of any incendiary materials such as piles of old newspapers and magazines, old clothing, and soiled, oily rags. Do not store gasoline or other flammable liquids near gas and hot-water heaters. Never store a discarded appliance in a garage without first removing the door. Lock the car doors. Little fingers are easily crushed by a car door and there are plenty of potential hazards inside the car should a young child enter it unsupervised. Use special precautions with garage doors. Garage doors are heavy and can cause serious injuries. Both automatic and manual doors can crush fingers and cause severe head injuries, even death. The safest kind of manually operated garage door has a counterbalance system rather than a long coil spring. Make sure automatic garage doors have a device that automatically stops the door or reverses it when it comes into contact with an object. 22 CasaGuam March 2015
From The Parents Answer Book: From Birth Through Age Five, by the editors of Parents magazine. Copyright Š 2000 by Roundtable Press and G+J USA Publishing.
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W h o Ya G o n n a C a l l ?
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Classifieds Commercial Rentals
MongMong-Toto-Maite
Yigo
Ordot-Chalan Pago
Dededo
Economical studio unit. Completely
Single Home. Excellent Condition. 3BD/2BA. Large yard. Good location. $1,400/month or for sale $200K. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-7700.
Chalan Pago 2bed 1bath SFD for sale. 1169sq.m lot Asking $119K. Call Karen 988-1883
renovated. All ceramic tiles, new cabinets, 106 East Sta. Barbara, Dededo 4bed/1 ba
new split A/C, typhoon shutters & double
corner house, fenced, and gated. Centrally
paned windows. Call Deanna @ 688-2855.
located close to church, school & malls. $1,200/mnth. Call MYRNA @ 488-0144
Piti
Ordot-Chalan Pago
MILITARY APPROVED! 1 & 3 BR 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
Commercial space for rent. Approx 850 sq ft., video store or retail business. Asking $850/mo. Please call ANGIE @ 727-2228
Talofofo 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!
Residential Sales Barrigada
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 Two 2BD hse. 1 Full Concrete & 1 semi concrete in one lot. $96K. Negotiable. Call 727-4985.
Residential Rentals Talofofo Agat
Large 4BR/2Ba 1800sqft. House Only 248,000 637-7165 / 688-0887 / 689-3333
Ipan home less than one mile away from 1 & 3 BR in Agat. Ocean View! Renovated. Near Base, Stores, and Schools. Call 649-8265 or 727-8265
Asan
the beach and golf courses. 2 story, for more information.
Tamuning
Nimitz Hill, 2BD apartment including Sunrise D Condo. Large 2BD/2BA. Pool. ocean view. $950/mo. Modern upgraded, all ceramic tiled, typhoon shutters. Call 687-6900
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
Very nice. 1,000 SqFt. $1,000/month. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-7700. NEWLY BUILT TAMUNING VILLA HOME
Barrigada 3BD/2BA, 2 carport, fully fenced, basic 2b/1b, near Subway with water $830/mo. Please call 637-7165 / 688-0887 / 689-3333
Dededo
4BD/3BA plus studio. Call 707-6923/4
appliances included (split AC, ref, stove, washer, dryer, heater, drain disposal) $2,500/mo. Call 727-7670 or 988-7671
Harmon
Villa Rosario Condo: 3bd 2ba Excellent Condition, Pool, Tennis Court, Play Ground. Good Location $160,000.00 Call 637-7165/688-0887 Las Palmas Ph3. 3rd Floor. Large 3BD/2.5BA/2Den. Pool. Excellent Condition. $255,000. Call 637-7165 689-3333/688-0887
San Vitores Terrace Condo-2bd/1ba, 3BD/2.5BA Townhouse. Pool. Security. Tennis Court. $1,900/month. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689-7700 Large 4BD/2.5BA. Single home. Pool. Security. Tennis Court. $2,450/month. Call 637-7165/688-0887/689.7700. Harmon Ct. Townhouse. 3BD/2BA. Sec. 8 OK. $1,200/month. Call 637-7165 689-3333/688-0887
3bd/2ba - walking distance to beach, rest/bars, church. Asking $950 -
Pacific Gardens. 1st Floor. Pool. Security. 1BD/1BA. $47,000. Call 637-7165 689-7700/688-0887/689-3333.
Tamuning 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 For Sale $195K Fee Simple. 3BD/2BA Tamuning Condominium Low Common Area Fee @ $50/month. Call Jo 488-4563.
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.
$1800/mo. CSR- PB 649-6088
Tumon Blue Pacific Lattice Condo. 2bd/1ba. Backup generator, securted entry, pool, mailbox, room A/C units, stove/oven, refrigerator. Call Deanna @ 688-2855.
For Sale By Owner Summer Palace Estates Located close to Cost-U-Less in Harmon 4Bd/2.5Ba 2100 Sq. Ft. Secured gated community/swimming pool, tennis court, & playground. New granite countertop and tile floor throughout / typhoon shutters. $440,000.00 Please call 777-0951
Land for Sale Yigo 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 Ryan DeGuzman 2015 President
Message from the Exeutive Officer Peggy Araullo Llagas Guam Association of REALTORS®
Guam Association of REALTORS®
REALTORS® Care
A Buyers’ and Sellers’ Guide to Multiple Offer Negotiations – Part 2 Information for Buyers
Just as a good parent cares for the well being and protection of their child, so does a real estate agent who is a Realtor® care for the well being and protection of their client. Caution is important in business when addressing challenges that may arise from your typical, or not so typical, real estate transaction. Several years ago, I helped a young man and his family purchase a lovely home. After a few years of beautiful island living, Ed and his family were relocating to the mainland. He decided he was going to lease out his home as an investment property and manage it on his own. He prepared the documents and found a tenant right away. Shortly afterwards, he and his family moved as planned. Great start wouldn’t you say? Unfortunately, he did not use a real estate licensee and didn't ask anyone for advice. He believed he could save some money and do it all on his own. In less than a year his tenant stopped paying the rent. The owner found himself in trouble and exposed. His inability to collect the rent because he was off island, plus his initial refusal to get professional real estate assistance, resulted in him getting behind in his mortgage payments. To make a long story short, his home ended in foreclosure. Here is a story with a happier ending. Jaime and his wife were living in the states. They were behind on their Guam home mortgage payments and facing foreclosure. They, however, acted quickly and listened to the sound advice of their agent. They were able to sell their home in the nick of time with minimal financial stress. These are the stories that motivate and inspire me because agents who are Realtors® really do care and can help you. We can assist you through the struggles and survive them. Zig Ziglar said, "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." We are over 400 members strong and are ready, willing, and able to assist you. Let us show you how we truly CARE!
Perhaps no situation facing buyers or sellers is more potentially frustrating or fraught with potential for misunderstanding and for missed opportunity than presenting and negotiating multiple, competing offers to purchase the same property. Consider the following issues and dynamics: • Sellers want to get the highest price and best terms for their property. • Buyers want to buy at the lowest price and on the most favorable terms. • Listing brokers – acting on behalf of sellers – represent sellers’ interests. • Buyer representatives represent the interests of their buyer-clients. • Will a seller disclosing information about one buyer’s offer make a second buyer more likely to make a full price offer? Or will that second buyer pursue a different property? • Will telling several buyers that each is being given a chance to make their “best offer” result in spirited competition for the seller’s property? Or will it result in the buyers looking elsewhere? • What’s fair? What’s honest? Why isn’t there a single, simple way to deal with multiple competing offers? Knowledgeable buyers and sellers realize there are rarely simple answers to complex situations. But some fundamental principles can make negotiating multiple offers a little simpler. • Realize the listing broker represents the seller – and the seller’s interests, and the buyer-representative represents the buyer – and the buyer’s interests. Real estate professionals are subject to state real estate regulation and, if they are REALTORS®, to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS®. • The Code of Ethics obligates REALTORS® to be honest with all parties; to present offers and counter-offers quickly and objectively; and to cooperate with other brokers. Cooperation involves sharing of relevant information. • Frequently frustration and misunderstanding results from cooperating brokers being unaware of the status of offers they have presented on behalf of their buyer-clients. Listing brokers should make reasonable efforts to keep buyer-representatives up-to-date on the status of offers. Similarly, buyer-rep resentatives should keep listing brokers informed about the status of counteroffers their seller-clients have made. Finally, buyers and sellers need to appreciate that in multiple offer situations only one offer will result in a sale, and the other buyers will often be disappointed their offers were not accepted. While little can be done to assuage that disappointment, fair and honest treatment throughout the offer and negotiation process, coupled with prompt, ongoing and open communication, can enhance the chances that all buyers – successful or not – will feel they were treated fairly and honestly.
GUAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
-National Association of REALTORS®-
Suite 236A Julale Center 424 West O'Brien Drive, Hagatna, Guam 96910 Office: (671) 477-4271 • Fax: (671) 477-4275
The Guam Association of REALTORS® shall remain your leading advocate for promoting and protecting homeownership on Guam. Ask if your agent is a REALTOR®. Visit our website at www.guamrealtors.com.
The Voice for Real Estate on Guam
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