North Park Living April/May 2024

Your Trusted Real Estate Partners in the Metro Communities of San Diego and San Diego County.

We Help People Buy and Sell Their Homes in San Diego.

We are the McT Real Estate Group, a dedicated team of professionals specializing in assisting home buyers and home sellers throughout the vibrant neighborhoods of San Diego, including North Park, South Park, University Heights, Normal Heights, Mission Hills, Golden Hill, Hillcrest, and the surrounding areas. Our listing specialists, Z and Mary, bring a wealth of expertise to help sellers navigate the market, while Chaz, our esteemed buyer specialist, is committed to providing exceptional service to home buyers across San Diego County.

The McT Real Estate Group brings a wealth of experience to the San Diego Real Estate Industry, having established a strong presence since 2004. Our dedication and commitment to excellence have propelled us to the forefront of the Realtors serving North Park, South Park, and surrounding communities. What sets us apart is our unique background in the Hair Design industry in N.Y.C., where we honed our skills by working closely with individuals on a personal level. This invaluable experience has translated seamlessly into our roles as realtors, as we believe that real estate is ultimately a people business. While assisting clients in buying or selling a home may involve substantial financial decisions, we firmly believe that human connection remains paramount.

Discover the professionalism of the McT Real Estate Group for yourself. Experience firsthand the unparalleled dedication we bring to each client, and allow us to guide you towards achieving your real estate goals. We are here for the long haul, committed to your success and satisfaction.

Contact the McT Real Estate Group today and embark on a rewarding real estate journey. Together, we can turn your dreams into reality.

MARY McT MCTERNAN

DRE

Our Teammate, Buyer Specialist Chaz Chase.

With over a decade of experience in the real estate sector, Chaz initially carved his niche in specialized residential home remodeling. This foundational experience enabled him to develop a keen eye for quality workmanship and make informed cost evaluations.

As he immersed himself in property enhancement, Chaz transitioned to Property Management and subsequently discovered his love for the complexities of real estate transactions.

In 2013, he began his distinguished career as a realtor in San Diego.

Recognizing his expertise, the McT Real Estate Group welcomed him to their ranks in 2016. Specializing in buyer representation, Chaz is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every client secures the perfect home at an outstanding value.

A Heartfelt Thank You to the North Park Community

Dear Residents,

As the dust settles on our annual North Park Community Garage Sale, I find myself reflecting on the incredible day we shared. It is with immense gratitude that I write to thank each and every one of the 48 participants who opened their yards and garages, set up their stalls, and contributed to making this event a resounding success. Your enthusiasm and spirit brought our community together in a celebration of sustainability, treasure hunting, and neighborly love.

This year, we saw an extraordinary variety of items, from antiques that whispered stories of the past to furniture that promised to add character to new homes. Toys, tools, plants, fun wigs, magnificent artwork, and so much more lined our streets, drawing in crowds from across the county. It was a sight to behold and a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of our beloved North Park.

A personal highlight for me was the opportunity to meander through our neighborhood, delivering freshly baked donuts from the one and only Golden Donuts on University Avenue to our hardworking participants. The warm smiles and lively chats were the day’s true treasures, despite the challenge of resisting the tantalizing aroma of fresh donuts in my car! These moments of connection underscored the sense of community that makes our events so special.

We were thrilled to hear from many of you that the day was not only enjoyable but also fruitful, with numerous participants reporting great sales and meaningful interactions. It’s clear that our annual garage sale is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant expression of our community’s spirit.

As we close the chapter on this year’s sale, we want to extend a sincere thank you to all who participated, whether by setting up a stall, shopping, or spreading the word. Your involvement is what turns our collective effort into a cherished community tradition.

Here’s to the many memories made and the many more to come. Until next year, may we all carry forward the spirit of generosity, connection, and community pride that makes North Park truly remarkable.

With gratitude and warmest regards,

Z McT Real Estate Group

Best of Both Worlds in South Park

Discover a find in the neighborhood of South Park, San Diego. It is a truly remarkable property featuring two homes on a single lot!

As you approach, you’ll appreciate its curb appeal and low-maintenance landscaping. Step inside the main residence, a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home, and be greeted by the timeless beauty of original oak wood floors that seamlessly flow throughout the living room and bedrooms.

The heart of this home lies in its kitchen, which boasts custom cabinetry, sleek surface countertops, modern recessed lighting, and energy-efficient double-pane windows. Open the doors to an inviting enclosed porch (a bonus room) with a tranquil backyard view—an ideal space for relaxation or hosting gatherings. Enjoy the convenience of a laundry area within this area.

Outside, a spacious carport awaits at the end of a driveway, providing parking options. The hidden gem of this property is its detached bungalow, a retreat with one bedroom and one bathroom. This modern marvel features an updated kitchen, stylish bathroom fixtures,

South

3 beds • 2.5 baths • 1,200 sq. ft.

Back Detached Bungalow- 1 bed • 1 bath

Selling for $1,395,000

stainless steel appliances, and its own laundry setup.

Living in South Park means experiencing the best of both worlds. A neighborhood atmosphere with dining options, parks for strolls or picnics, and charming boutique shops. All with easy access to major freeways. Moreover, you can conveniently reach the airport within a drive, and the exquisite Coronado Beach is also a stone’s throw away. Make sure not to let this chance slip away to acquire a slice of South Parks’ allure!

Park, 1422-24 Felton St., San Diego, CA 92102

Modern Office in Pacific Beach

Exclusive Modern Office Condo! Elevate your business in style...Take a look at this first-floor modern office condo designed for businesses that value excellence and convenience. This elegantly renovated space has 7 (potential for 8) sizable offices, complemented by a versatile meeting area and cozy kitchenette, ensuring comfort and functionality intertwined seamlessly. With secured underground parking for two vehicles, exclusive access to a conference room, shower facilities, and elevator service, your business is set for success.

Spanish Style in North Park

This house next door was a tough cookie, with lots of deferred maintenance and no ability to give it a facelift. The neighbors had been in touch with our team for the last several years, and when ready, we were given the go-ahead to move quickly.

After hiring professionals to relocate the huge beehive, patch the area, and make the home presentable, we were ready to start our marketing campaign. It was a huge success. A professional YouTube video with over 1.9k views in 5 days, a social media storm that caught everyone’s attention, and print marketing that reached over 5,000 residents and potential buyers.

The results? A whopping 177 visitors through the open house, 40 private showings, and not one, but 11 offers. The home was sold for $1,150,000, with no strings attached. The buyer bought it as-is, and there were no repair headaches for our seller

Wondering what you might fetch in this current market? Feel free to reach out and have a chat.

CLIENT REVIEWS

“Zee and Mary McT are simply THE BEST realtors we’ve ever had. They represented us to sell our home in Clairemont last month...it went under contract in a week! Last year they were fantastic in helping us purchase a home in San Diego and 6 years ago they were instrumental in selling my Mother’s home in North Park. Zee is so proactive, smart and enthusiastic. She always keeps us informed on what’s happening in the selling and buying process. She listens to our questions and concerns and has the knowledge and experience to know the right answers. She and Mary have become our good friends and we’re truly grateful to know them. They know the value of homes and will get you the best price whether you’re purchasing or selling a home.”

—Lisa G.

“We had a wonderful experience with McT Real Estate and Chaz Chase. It had been our dream to buy a house in South Park, and we met with Chaz to talk through the process. He was extremely helpful and easy to work with, and it was clear that he understands the local real estate market. Throughout our search, showings, and piles of docusigns, Chaz answered all our questions and made the process super easy. We ended up in the heart of South Park, thanks to Chaz! We’re super happy and highly recommend McT’s!”

—Claire V.

“I listed my home for sale with Mary McTernan and Z. They made suggestions on upgrades, got us in contact with a company to do the work and we were very impressed with the result. They also handled the staging, termite tenting. We didn’t have to do any of that. Open house on a Monday and had 4 offers, reviewed them with my wife and I. Escrow closed ahead of time. Not counting the repairs the sale was completed in about a week and a half. So impressed with Mary and Z both, always were available for any questions we had. If you are looking to sell or buy a home Call them. You wont be disappointed.”

—Hagen D.

“I wanted to take a moment to post a rave review about Z and Mary McT as they went over and above all expectations for the sale of our home in South Park. Z actually represented us when we purchased our home a couple years ago so when it was time to sell, it was a no brainer who we would choose to list the property.

As soon as we notified her that we were ready to sell, both Z and Mary were there the very next day. They met us at the property to go over the things that we needed to fix so we could get more bang for our buck. One of the two units was a rental so with renting property comes a little repair, but fortunately it wasn’t much.

The work was completed and the house was on the market shortly after. Within days we received multiple offers and some well over the asking price. We sat down and went over all the offers and picked the best one that suited our needs and we were immediately in escrow the very next day.

Both Z and Mary also helped to make the escrow process so nice and smooth for us. I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about the McT Group. They are truly the best realtors I’ve worked with. They know the market, they know what needs to be done to get top dollar and they truly care about what’s best for you. I would highly recommend Z and Mary McT if you’re looking to sell in South Park or any neighborhood in San Diego.”

—Jim N.

Check out the latest properties for sale before they hit the market.

Join our VIP list today!

PREFERRED PARTNER

MORTGAGE AND REALTY PROFESSIONALS

INC.

ENDORSED BY

“MRP Mortgage simplifies the home-buying journey, offering tailored solutions for every unique situation. Chris has been helping our clients for many years; he is honest, trustworthy, and an all-around nice guy.”

—Z.McT-Contreras & Mary McTernan

MORTGAGE BROKER SERVING SAN DIEGO COUNTY SINCE 1999

RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE PROGRAMS TO $5,000,000

5% DOWN FOR PURCHASES UP TO $1,000,000

SELF-EMPLOYED BORROWER PROGRAMS

2ND MORTGAGES AND HOME EQUITY LINES

1ST TIME HOME BUYER PROGRAMS

CHRISTOPHER SCELFO Broker, Mortgage and Realty Professionals NMLS #252266 DRE #01246802

4024 Ibis Street. STE B, San Diego, CA 92103 (858) 663-6373

scelfo@mrpservicesinc.com mrpservicesinc.com

Check out our 5% Down Payment Option for 2-4 Unit Homes

Now accepting applications to fund loans before the end of the year. 5% down payments for owner-occupied 2, 3, and 4-unit homes. This marks a departure from the previous multifamily financing requirement of 15% down payment. You could purchase a $1,470,000 property with just 5% down.

This new option presents a great opportunity for individuals looking to invest in multifamily homes while also enjoying the benefits of homeownership.

Call today to discuss further.

PREFERRED PARTNER

CALIFORNIA BROKERAGE INSURANCE ASSOCIATES

ENDORSED BY

“They have been a great addition to our team. They are quick, reliable, professional and have been able to provide our clients with complete satisfaction.”

—Z.McT-Contreras & Mary McTernan

AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE INSURANCE OPTIONS

California Brokerage Insurance Associates is an independent insurance agency in San Diego, California. We offer affordable and reliable insurance choices across California. We will help you find the right combination of tailored, personalized insurance coverage at just the right price to fit your needs.

We invite you to complete an online quote or call us at 619-2839999, or contact us at customerservice@uinsureit.com to review coverage options for car insurance, home insurance, life insurance, business insurance, renter’s insurance, boat insurance, and more. We provide free, no hassle, no obligation insurance quotes designed to help you make an informed insurance decision.

1851 San Diego Ave. Suite 120 San Diego, CA 92110

customerservice@uinsureit.com

(619) 283-9999

southerncaliforniaautoinsurance.com

facebook.com/Calbrokerage

“For gourmet delights that make tails wag, there’s no place like Dexter’s Deli. Simply the best place in North Park that caters to our furry friends. Their store is filled with special treats, the best pet foods, coolest toys, and so much more. Plus, the people that work there are a pleasure - your pets will love them.”

—Z.McT-Contreras & Mary McTernan

With 3 locations in San Diego - we’ve got you covered with everything natural and healthy for your dogs and cats + we know everyone loves to celebrate their fur-babies, so be sure to check out our fabulous selection of Pup-Cakes and locally baked treats.

“A blend of timeless tradition, modern innovation, and sophisticated attitude for sure; Liz and her team provide style and premium service.”

—Z.McT-Contreras & Mary McTernan

3392 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104 (619) 255-1149

presleyandcofinejewelers.com

facebook.com/presleyandcofinejewelers/ instagram.com/presleyandcofinejewelers/

ELEVATING ELEGANCE IN SAN DIEGO

Located in the center of the North Park neighborhood is a boutique jewelry store filled with timeless beauty and exquisite craftsmanship. Presley & Co Fine Jewelry exhibits its more than 37 years experience in the world of fine jewelry and watch sales, and now they have opened a new store in North Park.

At Presley & Co. Fine Jewelry is a showcase of designer bridal rings, and unique fashion jewelry created by talented edgy women designers from around the world. They have an array of quality Swiss watches, and trendy gift ideas. In addition, they offer onsite specialized services including custom jewelry design, along with jewelry and watch repair.

Presley & Co Fine Jewelry is more than just a shop; it’s an embodiment of passion, dedication, and a commitment to delivering nothing but the finest in jewelry. What sets Presley & Co apart is their unwavering commitment to quality. Each piece of jewelry is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, ensuring that every gemstone is placed with precision and every design is a masterpiece.

NOW JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER!

The Foundation of a House is the Most Important Element of the Structure that Requires the Highest Focus and Attention BECAUSE EVERYTHING YOU OWN SITS ON IT! PREFERRED PARTNER

“They’ve consistently saved our clients thousands on foundation repairs thanks to their innovative approach and patented system. Introduced to us years ago by a well-known engineer in the area, Sure Safe has been our go-to for ensuring our clients’ foundations. Their team’s professionalism and effectiveness have made a significant impact, helping countless transactions smoothly cross the finish line.” —Z.McT-Contreras & Mary McTernan 2534 State St #436, San Diego, 92101 1440 Grand Ave B, San Marcos, 92078 (760) 741-1540

art@suresafe.com

www.suresafe.com

CALENDAR

March 16-May 12

SPRING SAFARI: FEATURING BUTTERFLY JUNGLE

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org

Guests of all ages will love this immersive wildlife experience. Enter the alluring world of the Safari Park’s Hidden Jungle Aviary, filled with colorful, fluttering butterflies. Snap breathtaking photos while you discover the important roles butterflies play in their ecosystems. Butterfly Jungle Safari requires an additional ticket for each person.

Apr 27-Apr 28

ARTWALK SAN DIEGO

2210 Columbia Street, San Diego artwalksandiego.org/missionfederal/

Thousands of attendees come to view and purchase artwork, enjoy live music performances, and participate in interactive art experiences. Little Italy is an ideal backdrop for this two day festival.  As San Diego’s most popular dining destination, plan to dine at one of the districts fabulous eateries.

PADRES HOME GAMES

Apr 19th Toronto Blue Jays @ San Diego Padres

Apr 20th Toronto Blue Jays @ San Diego Padres

Apr 21st Toronto Blue Jays @ San Diego Padres

Apr 26th Philadelphia Phillies @ San Diego Padres

Apr 27th Philadelphia Phillies @ San Diego Padres

March 31-May 31

BELMONT IN BLOOM

Belmont Park, 3190 Mission Blvd, San Diego belmontpark.com

This season Belmont will be blooming with color, life and joy through one of a kind photo opportunities and instagrammable moments including towering flowers, tasty treats, and floral inspired cocktails at our boardwalk restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy and support your local art community by joining us for live art performances, and community “give back” events. You can also gift Mom a day at the park this Mother’s Day with a “Mom-osa” from the traveling bubble cart, and brunch by the beach.

Apr 28th Philadelphia Phillies @ San Diego Padres

Apr 29th Cincinnati Reds @ San Diego Padres

Apr 30th Cincinnati Reds @ San Diego Padres

May 1, Cincinnati Reds @ San Diego Padres

May 10 Los Angeles Dodgers @ San Diego Padres

May 11 Los Angeles Dodgers @ San Diego Padres

May 12, Los Angeles Dodgers @ San Diego Padres

May 13 Colorado Rockies @ San Diego Padres

May 14 Colorado Rockies @ San Diego Padres

May 15 Colorado Rockies @ San Diego Padres

May 24 New York Yankees @ San Diego Padres

May 25 New York Yankees @ San Diego Padres

May 26, New York Yankees @ San Diego Padres

May 5-May 7

CINCO DE MAYO

Old Town, 4002 Wallace St San Diego cincodemayooldtown.com

Old Town San Diego is the perfect destination for celebrating Cinco de Mayo in style! This charming neighborhood is steeped in history and culture, with brightly colored buildings, lively street performers, and delicious Mexican cuisine at every turn.

Maximizing Value: The Importance of Not Selling Your Home Off the Market

In the heart of our community, where every street has its story and every home its heartbeat, a narrative unfolded recently that compels us to reflect on the importance of making informed decisions when selling a home. It's a story that resonates with the ethos of our team and underscores the critical role of professional guidance in the real estate journey.

During a recent catch-up with a resident, a tale of missed opportunity and exploitation came to light. She told me that an elderly neighbor, guided by a casual recommendation, sold her home off the market to an investor for $450,000. The details of the home paint a picture of untapped potential: a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Spanish-style residence nestled on a 5,000-square-foot lot, located on a desirable block. Despite the home's need for much TLC due to deferred maintenance, the price she received was a mere fraction of its true value.

This story is not just disheartening—it's a glaring example of how vulnerable homeowners can fall prey to opportunistic investors. It is discusting that someone would do this and can actually sleep at night. Had this homeowner partnered with a reputable Realtor, she could have received double the amount, even without the traditional selling process of showings and open houses. Our team is equipped with strategies that minimize disruption while maximizing returns, ensuring that homeowners receive the value they deserve.

This narrative is far too common, and it starkly highlights

the pitfalls of selling a home off the market. It's a cautionary tale that we, as a community, must learn from. The cost of uninformed selling is not just financial; it's the emotional distress of realizing too late that one could have benefited more with the right support.

If you are aware of an elderly person or any homeowner who might be navigating the complexities of selling their home, encourage them to seek professional advice. It’s imperative to voice concerns and seek guidance from trusted real estate professionals who prioritize the homeowner's best interest over a quick transaction.

At our core, we are not in the business for mere transactions; we are here for the journey, the long run. Our commitment to our clients transcends the sale, focusing on ensuring that every homeowner we work with receives the best representation. Our mission is to safeguard our clients from the exploitation experienced by the homeowner in our story.

Let this story be a call to action for all of us in the community. If you see something, say something. Reach out, ask for help, and let’s ensure that every homeowner receives the representation and support they deserve. We are here not just for the deal, but to ensure that when you choose to work with us, you are choosing a team that stands firmly against taking advantage of homeowners. Together, let's protect and enhance the value of our homes and our community.

Understanding the Difference Between Quitclaim & Grant Deeds in California

When it comes to navigating the world of real estate dealings, in California having an understanding of the legal documents used to transfer property rights is crucial.. Two utilized instruments are the Quitclaim Deed and the Grant Deed, each with its features that play a significant role. Having clarity on these differences is key for homeowners and prospective buyers to ensure decisions tailored to their requirements.

What is a Quitclaim Deed

A Quitclaim Deed is a paper that empowers a property owner (grantor) to transfer their stake in a property to another individual (grantee) without any assurances about the title’s quality. This implies that the grantor does not promise that they own the property without any claims or that there are no defects in the title. These deeds are frequently utilized in exchanges among family members or for resolving title concerns.

The simplicity of a Quitclaim Deed lies in its procedure and minimal assurances. While it offers a means of transferring property rights it also brings about uncertainty for the grantee since there is no safeguard against existing liens, encumbrances or claims, on the property.

What Constitutes a Grant Deed?

In comparison, a Grant Deed provides a level of assurance for the buyer. This legal document transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer and includes important guarantees. The first guarantee ensures that the seller has not previously sold the property to anyone. The second guarantee pledges that there are no claims on the property that existed before the transfer. Grant Deeds are commonly used in transactions involving the sale of property to a new owner. The assurances offered by a Grant Deed safeguard the buyer, ensuring a secure transfer of ownership compared to a Quitclaim Deed.

Key Contrasts Between Quitclaim and Grant Deeds

The primary distinctions between these deed types revolve around the protection they provide to the buyer or recipient;

Guarantees

Grant Deeds provide protection to buyers by guaranteeing title

quality and the absence of claims or encumbrances. In contrast, Quitclaim Deeds lack any guarantees, making them riskier for recipients.

Usage Scenarios

Quitclaim Deeds are typically employed for transferring property between family members, divorcing spouses or rectifying title issues. On the hand, Grant Deeds are favored in transactions where property is being sold to an owner necessitating a more secure change, in ownership.

Legal Considerations;

When it comes to a Quitclaim Deed, the absence of warranties implies that the buyer may have limited options if title issues arise after the transfer. Conversely, in a Grant Deed the presence of warranties offers the buyer a recourse to pursue compensation if the title guarantees turn out to be false.

Deciding between a Quitclaim Deed and a Grant Deed largely hinges on the relationship, between the parties involved and their desired level of security in property transfers. In California’s changing real estate landscape understanding these distinctions is crucial for individuals engaged in property transactions. It is recommended to seek guidance from an estate legal expert to determine which type of deed aligns best with your specific situation ensuring a smooth and protected transaction.

For homeowners and potential buyers in California, knowledge about the nuances of Quitclaims and Grant Deeds can significantly influence the success and security of real estate dealings. Remember that with the information and guidance, intricate legal choices can transform into well-informed decisions.

While contemplating the complexities of Quitclaim and Grant Deeds or any other aspect of real estate dealings in California, keep in mind that you don’t have to face this journey alone.

Our team is closely connected to the community. Committed to assisting you with all your real estate needs. We are prepared to support you at every stage of the journey, whether you are considering selling your home later on or if you just want to learn more, about the real estate landscape. You can count on us for assistance today, tomorrow, and in the days to come.

North Park Entrepreneur-Inventor

Brian Hoffman, a North Park resident, inventor, entrepreneur, and bicycle mobility advocate, alongside his partner Jannine, embraced North Park’s vibrant culture 14 years ago after relocating from the East Coast. With backgrounds in boat captaincy and shipwright (Brian) and pharmaceutical research (Jannine), they found inspiration in their new community’s nightlife, arts, and bike-friendly atmosphere.

The idea for Doghook sparked when they saw a dog awkwardly tethered to a phone booth outside Parkside Foods in 2013. With permission from the store’s owner, Brian installed the first Doghook, marking the beginning of a trusted brand in dog safety. Ten years later, Doghook has sold 35,000 hooks across 26 countries, becoming a favorite among pet professionals and dog-friendly businesses. They aim to further normalize dog-friendly spaces by enhancing safety and freedom for both dogs and their owners.

Their environmental concern led to the creation of Velocker in 2017, motivated by a desire to lower their carbon footprint amidst alarming climate reports. The challenge of securely transporting daily essentials on an electric cargo bike led Brian to develop a secure, versatile bike cargo solution. His efforts aim to make electric bikes a viable, sustainable transportation option, focusing on the capability to safely carry goods, gear, passengers, and pets. Looking ahead, they plan to introduce their innovative products to the U.S. and European markets.

Additionally, they’re organizing the “Disaster Relief Trials Socal” in North Park, combining a cargo bike race with a resilience fair on August 10th. This event, featuring bicycle demos, safety training, and preparedness workshops, aims to strengthen community resilience and emergency response.

Contact info below:

Brian Hoffman and the Ebike Cargo Team ebikecargo@gmail.com

Call us at (619) 403-1148

Social Links:

https://www.facebook.com/Ebikecargocom-405859616648182/ https://www.instagram.com/ebikecargo/ https://twitter.com/ebikecargo

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-hoffman-40b07764/ https://www.pinterest.com/ebikecargo/