REFLECTING ON 16 YEARS AS PUBLISHER OF HOMES & LAND: EMBRACING THE NEXT CHAPTER
It’s hard to believe that over thirty years have passed since my career began with Homes & Land, and sixteen since I first took the helm as publisher of this Homes & Land edition. Looking back, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for the incredible journey I’ve had in this role. From overcoming challenges to celebrating the milestones, my time as publisher has been a deeply rewarding experience, one that has shaped both my career and my life. Yet, after much thought and reflection, I’ve decided that it’s time to turn over the reins and step into the next chapter of my journey.
When I first began with Homes & Land, the magazine was already an established name, but there was so much potential to unlock. It was a time when the real estate industry was rapidly evolving, and so was the media landscape. Through dedication, hard work, and a passion for the industry, I was able to help guide Homes & Land through the changing tides, embracing new technologies, expanding our audience, and elevating the magazine’s reputation in the real estate community.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with an incredible team who shared in my vision and supported our collective goals. Together, we saw the magazine grow in both circulation and influence, becoming a go-to resource for homeowners, buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. One of the most gratifying aspects of this role has been connecting with the vibrant real estate community, meeting and working with so many talented realtors, and being part of a publication that truly makes a difference. Whether it was through showcasing homes in stunning photo spreads or sharing valuable market insights, Homes & Land has always been more than just a magazine—it’s been a trusted guide for people in one of the most important decisions of their lives.
The experience I’ve gained as publisher has been invaluable. I’ve learned so much about leadership,
innovation, and what it means to build something meaningful. But as much as I have cherished my role in growing and nurturing the magazine, I feel that it is now time for me to pass the baton. The landscape of real estate and media continues to evolve, and while I’m incredibly proud of all that we’ve accomplished, I believe it’s time for Homes & Land to enter the next phase of its journey.
I am confident that the talented team taking over is the right group to take Homes & Land to new heights. They possess the vision, expertise, and resources necessary to expand the magazine’s reach and continue innovating in ways that I could only have dreamed of when I first started. This decision has been bittersweet, but I believe it’s the right one. I am excited for what the future holds for Homes & Land and for the entire team.
As I look forward to the next chapter of my life, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. While my time as publisher of Homes & Land has come to a close, I will forever cherish the memories, the relationships, and the satisfaction of having played a role in the publication’s success. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity, and I look forward to seeing how the next generation of leadership will continue to shape Homes & Land for years to come.
So, as you endeavor to step into your next journey with the home of your dreams, please keep in mind to practice patience and be kind. And as always, we wish you and your families safe and healthy days ahead.
Laurie A. Cloward-Cater May the next chapter begin...
Ventura Heights Custom Single-Level
Mediterranean-Style Home with Ocean Views
www.325NCatalinaSt.com
3BR | 3.5BA | 3460 SF | .61 ACRES
Stunning residence on over half-acre corner lot, fully fenced and gated for privacy. The home features a large office with a closet that could easily serve as a fourth bedroom. The office also has a separate entrance to the parking area. The home includes a living room and a family room, both equipped with fireplaces, as well as a breakfast room, dining room, and laundry room. The expansive kitchen boasts a center island with seating for at least five, custom high-end cabinets, granite countertops, and inlaid wood-tiled floors. The primary suite offers two walk-in closets, a viewing balcony, and a luxurious bathroom featuring a spacious tiled shower with two heads, along with a detached soaking tub. Additional amenities include a three-car garage, a nine-hole putting green, and several fruit trees. The property has low-maintenance grounds with artificial turf, allowing you to simply move in and enjoy. The home is designed with high-end finishes and quality materials throughout, making it a truly one-of-a-kind custom residence. $3,190,000
HOW TO
PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SPRING SHOWINGS
pring is a popular time for home sellers to put their properties on the market. The warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days make it an attractive season to showcase your home. But before you open your doors to potential buyers, it’s important to prepare your home for spring showings. Here are some tips to help you get your home ready for the spring market.
1
Declutter and Deep Clean: Before you list your home, take the time to declutter and deep clean. Clear out any unnecessary items, organize closets and cabinets, and deep clean every room. A clean and clutter-free home is more appealing to potential buyers.
2
Boost Your Curb Appeal: The first impression is crucial, so make sure your home’s exterior is in top shape. Clean the windows, power wash the siding, paint the front door, and add some potted plants or hanging baskets. A well-maintained exterior can entice buyers to take a closer look at your home.
3
Bring in the Light: Open up the curtains and blinds to let in natural light. Replace any burned-out light bulbs and consider adding some new light fixtures or lamps to brighten up dim areas. A well-lit home can make a big difference in how a buyer perceives the space.
4 Stage Your Home: Staging your home can help buyers visualize themselves living in the space. Remove personal items, such as family photos, and add some decorative touches like fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit. Arrange furniture to create a welcoming and functional space.
5 Make Necessary Repairs: Take care of any needed repairs before listing your home. Fix leaky faucets, replace cracked tiles, and repair any damaged walls or ceilings. A well-maintained home can be a selling point for buyers.
6
Highlight Spring Features: If your home has features that are particularly attractive in the spring, be sure to highlight them. A deck or patio for outdoor entertaining, a garden or flower beds, or a view of nearby parks or waterways can be a selling point for buyers.
In conclusion, preparing your home for spring showings can help attract potential buyers and sell your home more quickly. By decluttering and deep cleaning, boosting curb appeal, bringing in light, staging your home, making necessary repairs, highlighting spring features, and providing a fresh scent, you can showcase your home in the best possible light. A little preparation can go a long way in making your home stand out in the competitive spring real estate market.
Neighborhood SPECIALIST
Know what they know.
Valuable information you won’t find online:
• Comparative Market Analysis
• Current prices and market activity
• Property’s time on the market
• Nearby amenities and walkability
• The quality and reputation of schools
• Average commute times
• History of the neighborhood
• Future development plans
• Average household income
To become an Exclusive Neighborhood Specialist today, contact:
Kristin Richmer
805-507-7001 ventura@HomesandLand.com HomesandLand.com Sales, Homes & Land
Please contact any of the specialists on the following two pages.
Neighborhood SPECIALISTS
Ventura Hillside, Midtown & West - Sitting high above the heart of Ventura, these hillside neighborhoods enjoy some of the best views in the county, seeing as far as the Channel Islands. It’s a hop, skip, and a jump to downtown Ventura Main Street for its exciting nightlife, shops, and relaxing restaurants with inside & outdoor seating. I have lived on the Ventura hillside for over 50 years, and am familiar with all aspects. Put my 37 years of selling Ventura County to use.
Fred Evans, Co-founder 805.267.6701
fred@fredevans.com FredEvans.com
Pierpont Community - This beach community in Ventura is peaceful and beautiful under the iconic swaying palm trees, with restaurants, shopping, and entertainment nearby. The community park hosts summer events for all to enjoy. Homes of all sizes to fit every need. Many cul-de-sac streets for low traffic and privacy, and some ocean views. We hold designations in luxury and second-home markets, and can help you find your dream home today.
Desti & Michele
805.509.5404 & 805.312.1529
DestiAndMichele.com GOLD COAST REALTORS
destiandmichele@gmail.com
Silver Strand/Hollywood by the Sea - A local secret for years! Originally marketed in the 1920s to attract Hollywood to the beach. With only one entrance/exit to this desirable beach community, this beach area is relatively isolated, remaining uncrowded & charming. Just 1 hour north of LA. Enjoy spectacular beachfront homes to cozy cottages, restaurants, wildlife, sailing & surfing. Let the number one beach agent for 42 years find your perfect home!
John Eash
805.236.6417
johneash@hotmail.com JohnEash.com
Neighborhood SPECIALIST HOMES & LAND
Hollywood Beach - Hollywood Beach in Oxnard is famous for early film stars living and filming here. Located on the south end of the peninsula that separates Channel Islands Harbor from the ocean. Because of its huge sandy expanse, it won’t be crowded. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunning and viewing the Channel Islands offshore. Enjoy an easy walk to parks, shops, and many well known eateries. Being the number one agent in Oxnard, let me find your dream beach home.
GOLD COAST REALTORS
Ann Howarth
805.216.4580
annhowarth2525@gmail.com
AnnHowarth.com
Mandalay Shores - Previously known as Oxnard Shores, is all about location, and this is it! Of the homes, many offer breathtaking waterfront views of the sand & ocean. Enjoy a mix of luxury estate size homes, to cozy summer cottages. The area is family oriented with lots of water fun at your fingertips. Walk to parks, shopping, and local restaurants. As long time Oxnard residents with vast knowledge of the area, we give personalized attention to every aspect of the process.
GOLD COAST REALTORS
Desti & Michele
805.509.5404 & 805.312.1529
michelelosey@gmail.com DestiAndMichele.com
Mandalay Bay - Welcome to this amazing stretch of paradise! Looking for a home on the water with a boat dock included? Well look no further! We have waterfront homes starting from $1,595,000 to $3,995,000 depending on size and location. Boat docks will range from 40’ to 100’. Call now for details and ask for your FREE market evaluation. As a Yachtmans Realtor, I have owned 3 sailboats and 11 powerboats in the last 40 years, and have been a PCYC Member for 45 years.
GOLD
COAST REALTORS
Mike Losey
805.509.1177
mike.losey@yahoo.com MarinaHomesByMike.com
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Photographed in Los Angeles, CA
Ventura Keys Waterfront Boat Dock Home Beautiful Tuscan-style villa. Remodeled 3BR, 4BA, 3458± sf, 12 ft of waterfront deck, plus 38± ft. boat dock. $3,925,000 www.2790SailorAve.com | TEXT: TQQJWJ
Oxnard, Mandalay Shores
10 houses from the beachfront, 3074± sf, 4BR, 4.5BA. Rooftop deck with views, fitted for outdoor kitchen. $2,450,000 www.5306SandpiperWay.com | TEXT: TPLHMQ
Santa Paula Buildable Avocado Lot
Almost 2 acres of Hass avocados. Build your gated dream home. City water, electricity avail. Mtn views. $975,000 www.FredEvans.com | CALL FOR INFO
Sought-after Area close to Ventura College 1836± sf, 4BR, 2.5BA, on 9124± sf lot. Short drive to beach. Close to shops, & Arroyo Verde Park hiking trails. $1,199,000 www.363SetonHallAve.com | TEXT: TQWLFL
Condo in Gallery at River Ridge
Gated area built in 2019, 3BR, 2.5BA, 1900+ sf. Amenities include clubhouse, fireplace area, pool & hot tub. $839,000 www2355NicklausStreet.com | TEXT: TQHJMJ
Ventura Ocean & Island View Lot
.75-acre vacant cul-de-sac lot in Buena Vista tract. Avocado trees. Soil & geological done. Gas & power avail. $499,000 www.FredEvans.com | TEXT: CALL FOR INFO
20-Acre Gated Estate in Ventura Hills Panoramic views. 4BR, 3BA, 2774± sf. Pool & spa. Consists of 5 tax parcels. Create your own family compound. $2,500,000 www.1184ColinaVista.com | TEXT: TPXVRM
Ventura Ondulando Panoramic View Lot
27,000+ sf with plans ready for permits to start on this 5000 sf home with attached ADU. Project is shovel ready. $995,000 www.FredEvans.com | CALL FOR INFO
Upper Ojai, 20 Acres Hilltop Home Site
Spectacular views of the Topa Topas & valley. Open spaces, peaceful surroundings. Easement adjacent. $450,000 www.FredEvans.com | CALL FOR INFO
