House & Home: September 25, 2022

T H E U L T I M A T E C E N T R A L C O A S T R E A L E S T A T E S O U R C E

&HOUSE HOME LLC

Wendy McCaw Co-Publisher Arthur Von Wiesenberger Co-Publisher

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A note from the SBAOR President

By Bob Walsmith, Jr. President of the Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS®

4 Trends That Predict the Home of Tomorrow

The home of tomorrow isn’t about Jet son-esque wonders and smartphone apps. It’s about home value, natural resources, and our lifestyles.

To predict what home features will be most valued in 25 years, let’s focus on four rising trends:

#1 Extreme Energy Efficiency

Utility bills are expected to skyrocket over the next couple of decades. This will result in sustainable updates that push the green needle of household standards.

Energy dashboards: You know how cars share the miles per gallon we’re getting? An energy dashboard will do the same for our homes.

Why we made this prediction: It’s all about the emerging technologies that will surround the future modernization of the electric grid. Called the Smart Grid, it will allow a two–way dialogue between home owners and their utility companies so we can understand our energy use and its costs in real time.

Waterless toilets: Nope, we aren’t talk ing about porta potties, but clean and sanitary indoor thrones that will one-up low flush loos.

Why we made this prediction: It makes sense since residential water rates are rising in the U.S., and toilets are responsible for nearly 27% of our total water use. Plus, Dow Chemical says waterless toilets will become a household standard.

Grey water systems: According to Energy.gov, systems like these currently reuse up to 60% of your household water for watering the lawn and flushing toilets.

Why we made this prediction: The real big boppers among home of tomor row trends will be high-tech purification systems that return wastewater to drink ing-quality level. A good example is the orbital shower. This concept saves 90% of the water and 80% of the energy used, trimming as much as $1,000 off of yearly energy bills.

Garages wired for the electric vehicle revolution: Energy.gov predicts we will be charging our vehicles at home, and filling up at the gas stations less. This is based on the growing number of electric vehicle sales across the U.S.

Why we made this prediction: One city has already embraced this idea. In Palo Alto, Calif., building code requires new homes to come pre-wired for electric car chargers.

#2 The Rise of Super Storms

Since super storms are becoming the norm, homeowners can be left without electricity for weeks, even months — as they were after Hurricane Sandy.

Whole house generator: This will al low people to live comfortably until their power is restored. FYI, homeowners can currently recoup 52% of the cost of a mid range electrical backup system.

Why we made this prediction: Thanks to extreme weather and our aging power grid, blackouts are becoming more com mon. The Department of Energy says thunderstorms, hurricanes, and blizzards account for 58% of outages in the U.S. since 2002.

Tip: Futurists predict that USB ports will become the power outlets of the not so distant future. Luckily, quick charge ports are available now.

#3 The Locally-Grown Movement

The desire to eat healthier, better-tast ing foods continues to increase. This will make indoor gardens common among our home of tomorrow trends.

Edible indoor kitchen gardens: These hydroponic systems will add to home enjoyment by allowing people to create the farm to table experience in their own kitchens.

Why we made this prediction: Urban farming has been on the rise. It combats rising food prices and reduces the energy consumption of transporting food.

Tip: Bringing nature inside can create a more healthy and happy living environ ment. Fragrant plants can chase away the winter blues, while others can combat household air pollution.

#4 Smart Home Stuff

Kitchen sinks: They will do double duty as dishwashers. The in-sink dish washer will wash small loads in just a cou ple of minutes.

Faucets: They won’t be just for water. They will also dispense ice, various bever ages, and vitamins.

Laundry machines: They will clean and fold clothing into compact pellets. This will be a big space saver and allow con sumers to carry an entire outfit in a small gym bag or purse.

Why we made this prediction: Smart phones have replaced the need for other items like alarm clocks and cameras. With that idea in mind, it makes sense that countertop appliances will become re placed by multi-purpose “uber appliances” that make our lives a little bit easier.

Bob Walsmith, Jr. can be reached at 805-720-5362 or emailed at Bob@BobWalsmithJr.com

HOA Homefront Reader Questions Problem Presidents

By Kelly G. Richardson, Esq. CCAL

Hello Mr. Richardson, Word has it that our association presi dent has not paid association dues since the beginning of the pandemic. How can I find out if the president is not current? (Our very last election the requirement to be in good standing was removed). Is the president protected by COVID laws? Is there any recourse for us to demand that the president pay up quickly or face a lien?

Dear M.H.:

– M.H.

Although delinquencies might be in directly reflected in the general financial records which Civil Code Section 5200 says members can inspect, other statutes reference the confidentiality of delin quencies. For example, per Civil Code Section 5665, a delinquent homeowner may request a meeting with the board to discuss a payment plan, and that meet ing is to be in closed session and votes to foreclose upon liens are required by Civil Code Section 5705(c) to be in closed ses sion. Many HOAs try to protect delin quent homeowners from embarrassment, so it is possible that the HOA might be pursuing the delinquency. Some bylaws or election rules disqualify candidates or directors because of delinquencies. Presi dents should be given no greater leniency than any other homeowner regarding as sessments.

– Sincerely, Kelly

Our community has been under a reign of terror because of the leadership of an abusive president. He has been ver bally abusive to many of the women who ask questions during open sessions and basically to anyone who questions his de cision making. Two female directors quit because of his dictatorship, screaming and intimidation. What options do we have to reprimand or remove him from the board?

– R.G.

Dear R.G.:

In most HOAs the board chooses the president, so the board also is part of the problem for allowing such a person to continue leading. The board can issue a censure motion, which is basically a reprimand, or could hold a disciplinary hearing regarding the president if he is violating meeting conduct rules. How ever, short of a membership recall vote (a very difficult task), members at large have little control over presidents. I note you describe abusive behavior apparently only directed toward women. That could expose the president to a complaint of harassment based upon gender, which vi olates Fair Housing regulations. In your open forum remarks, urge the board to appoint a different director as president — someone who is more respectful of the neighbors.

– Sincerely, Kelly

Hi Kelly,

I have a question regarding the HOA president. He has been doing remodel work throughout our condo association and is not licensed as a contractor and is breaking our HOA rules. I have asked that he step down as a board member, but he refused. What can be done?

Dear R.A.:

– R.A.

Hiring HOA members (let alone a director) to work for the HOA is a bad idea. It makes it so much harder to deal with vendor issues when the vendor is part of the community. However, it sounds as if your president is working for individual homeowners. If the remodel work violates association rules, the presi dent is not immune from those rules and should be held to answer for violations of the rules or CC&Rs. A director who is doing work for other HOA homeowners also presents a strong risk of conflict of interest.

– Best regards, Kelly

Kelly G. Richardson, Esq. is a Fellow of the College of Community Association Lawyers and Partner of Richardson Ober DeNichilo LLP, a California law firm known for community association advice. Submit questions to Kelly@rodllp.com. Past columns at www.HOAHomefront.com. All rights reserved®.

How your credit cards can help during a recession

If not possible, lean on a card with 0% APR

If you forge ahead with credit card spending during a recession, and find you must carry a balance, your best bet may be to depend mostly, if not exclusively, on a good 0 percent APR credit card. A 0 percent APR card lets you temporarily avoid interest charges on purchases or balance transfers during a certain window of time, such as 15 months.

One example of this type of card is the BankAmericard® credit card. It pro vides a 0 percent intro APR on purchases and balance transfers (made during the first 60 days) across 21 billing cycles.

Create a budget

Lokenauth suggests setting up a household budget (if you don’t already have one, of course) so you can better manage your credit cards and the rest of your finances. He emphasizes that all sorts of software, websites and apps can help you construct and maintain a budget. Using Bankrate’s Home Budget Calculator is a great place to start.

“Not having a budget can make it difficult to know where you are spend ing your money or difficult to have control over your spending in general,” says Lokenauth. “Creating a budget will help you visualize where you can cut back spending and where you can save money.”

Use rewards to counter inflation and rising interest rates

Yes, rewards can be a valuable aspect of a credit card. Rossman notes that it doesn’t make sense to carry a balance for a long time at an APR of 18 percent in exchange for earning, say, 3 percent in cash back or travel rewards. In that sce nario, the math probably doesn’t add up in your favor.

But, assuming you’re paying your bills on time and charging only what you must, rewards can provide a steady payback that can reduce your total outlay.

Maximize cash back

Start by making sure you have one of the best cash back cards in your wallet. To ensure you’re squeezing the most you can out of cash back rewards, plot a strategy for which ones to pull out of your wallet and for which purposes. Here’s one potential strategy:

By John Egan Bankrate.com

When a recession is looming (or already here), you may wonder how to best handle your fi nances. After all, a recession — a period of time when the economy takes a deep dive — can trigger financial stress. Will you lose your job? Will you be able to keep up with everyday expenses?

With financial concerns like these swirling around in your head, you might decide to cut back on spending, boost your emergency fund or reassess your retirement savings. You might also be curious about how credit cards can figure into your recession survival strategy. Used wisely, credit cards can offer easy access to a line of credit when you need it most, reduce expenses through cash back rewards and provide a variety of valuable perks.

Here, we offer some expert advice about how to smartly use credit cards during a recession. Monitor your credit card use

A recession isn’t the best time to rack up credit card charges for those cute shoes you’ve been eyeing or that big-screen TV you’ve been coveting. Instead, focus on using credit cards as tools to help you make it through a recession.

“Credit cards can provide a financial safety net in the event you don’t have an adequate emergen cy savings fund,” says consumer finance expert Andrea Woroch. “This way, you can pay necessary bills or unexpected expenses, without worrying how you’re going to come up with the cash.”

Set up alerts

To keep from running up too many charges on a credit card, think about activating account alerts that notify you when a purchase exceeds a certain amount (like $500) or the balance creeps close to a certain level (such as $5,000). Automate bill payments

Juggling your finances during a recession is nerve-racking enough. You don’t need to add to your stress by missing payments. Therefore, it’s a good idea to automate credit card payments so you don’t miss a due date and possibly get slapped with late fees or a penalty APR, Woroch advises.

Reduce card debt

To help shield your finances from the impact of a recession, try to pay down as much of your credit card debt as you can. Our credit card payoff calculator is a good place to start.

“Debt can rob you of your future because you are using the money you earn today to pay off things from the past,” says personal finance professional Andrew Lokenauth, adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco’s School of Management. “If unpaid, debt can grow larger and larger with the interest and fees adding up.”

Avoid carrying a balance if possible

Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst at Bankrate, cautions that you should pay off credit card charges as soon as you can, to avoid piling up interest — every two weeks, if possible. Ideally, you should clear a balance before the credit card issuer tacks on any interest at all.

“Carrying credit card balances from month to month adds to the cost of repayment over time. Every dollar spent on interest is a dollar that won’t help you grow your savings,” says Bruce Mc Clary, senior vice president of membership and communications for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

Credit card with 2 percent cash back on all purchases. Use this as your everyday card. Example: The Wells Fargo Active Cash card offers a flat rate of 2 percent cash back on all purchases.

Credit card with 3 percent cash back on gas and grocery purchases. This card can be particularly helpful in fighting recession-triggered inflation. Example: The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express provides 3 percent cash back at gas stations and 6 percent cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases.

Credit card with 5 percent cash back on travel. Example: The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card delivers 5 percent cash back for hotel and rental car bookings made through Capital One Travel.

“One of the best ways to save on your everyday expenses is by having a credit card that gives you flexibility both in the way you earn and in the way you redeem rewards,” says Elly Szymanski, as sistant vice president of credit card products at Navy Federal Credit Union. “If you’re in a financial place where you can handle multiple cards in your wallet, this could also help maximize the value you get in return, as different cards have ongoing rewards for different types of spending.”

One advantage of a cash back card is that it can counteract the effects of inflation. In fact, just 2 percent cash back conceivably could furnish a better return than the average APY for a savings account (0.13 percent as of late August 2022).

Take advantage of credit card perks

The perks of a credit card might be just as valuable, if not more so, than the rewards it provides. For instance, your card might qualify you for purchase protections, extended warranties or roadside assistance. Or you may be able to score discounts on meals, car rentals, household services or cloth ing — from Amex Offers, for example, or from Visa.

“Recessions mean belt tightening, but there are still some areas where spending is necessary,” says McClary. “Using a credit card that gives you access to special discounts on essential purchases can be helpful during a recession, especially if your paycheck has taken a hit.”

Ask for help when needed

If a recession has battered your finances to the point that you’re struggling with your finances, don’t be afraid to seek help. You may be able to negotiate a payment plan with your card issuer that lowers your monthly payments, for example. Or you might reach out to a nonprofit credit counsel ing agency to help you climb out of a financial hole.

The bottom line

A recession, particularly when it’s coupled with inflation, can produce a lot of anxiety. In a July 2022 survey from Allianz Life Insurance Co. of North America, 66 percent of Americans said they feared a recession was right around the corner and 82 percent said they were worried about rising inflation chipping away at their purchasing power.

Fortunately, you may be able to ease at least some of your recession or inflation anxiety by wisely incorporating credit cards into your day-to-day finances. During rocky financial times, credit cards can help smooth things out by enabling you to cover emergency expenses, reap rewards on everyday spending and capitalize on money-saving perks.

Visit Bankrate online at bankrate.com. ©2022 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

During rocky financial times, credit cards can help smooth things out by enabling you to cover emergency expenses, reap rewards on everyday spending and capitalize on money-saving perks.

Photo courtesy Dreamstime/TNS

Where Mission Canyon meets San Roque this inviting and bright 2 bed/1 bath + Bonus room home offers architectural character and a convenient location. In addition to its desirable location, highlights of this home include natural light, a size-able kitchen, a vaulted ceiling bonus room, a walk-in closet, a spacious front and side yard, and curb appeal. The unique upstairs bonus room could easily be u tilized as the third bedroom, a spacious home office, or hobby room. An alluring 1700 square feet in total, a boasting wood burning fireplace in the living room, hardwood flooring throughout the main level of the home, and nes tled nearby the famous Santa Barbara Mission, SB Botanica l Gardens and several hiking trails.

The magic of this property lies in its versatility as the one ca r garage adds an ADU opportunity for rental income and the yard is perfect for guest entertainment and al fresco dining. A beautiful home in a great neighborhood with remodel opportunities, soft Mission bel ls in the distance and attendance within the Roosevelt School District are sure to capture the new homeowners' hearts. CA

Here are 2022’s top fall design trends to spruce up your home

By Hunter Boyce

Fall is nearly here, and that means interior design trends are changing. While good design often carves its own path, keeping up with modern trends can be a great way to gain inspiration and gauge your interests for that next big project.

With that in mind, here are some of fall 2022’s top interior designer trends.

Bold colors

According to Pure Wow, people are going big with bold colors this fall.

“From boho to disco, ‘70s interiors are having a mo ment,” trend expert Nick Drewe told the website. “The trend is all about incorporating earthy tones like hunter green, mustard yellow and blues, with materials like rat tan and bamboo — in fact, searches for rattan have shot up by 77% on Pinterest.”

Specifically, green has been gaining traction this year.

“Green has been topping the design trend charts over the past several years, and we particularly love this muted sage variation [that’s popping up everywhere for fall],” Anastasia Casey, founder and CEO of IDCO Studio said. “Whether it’s for kitchen cabinets, bathroom vani ties or entire walls, sage is a color shade we can always get behind.”

Curves

The Zoe Report said that curves are bringing comfort to many designers’ living spaces this season as well.

“For fall, curves are relaxing into organic form with abstract sofas, mirrors, and tables high on the list,” Beth any Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors told the web site.

From round pillows to nonlinear sofas, curves have made a comeback in a big way.

“Adding playful shapes to your everyday decor can really add a transitional element for the season,” Sarah Weichel of Swike Design said.

Nature

According to HGTV, bringing the outside indoors remains a popular trend in interior design. From natural colors to potted plants to flowery wallpaper, there are a number of ways to give your home a resemblance of the outdoors.

“I am continuously inspired by people who style their flower boxes with cabbage, pumpkins, sprigs of wheat and gourds,” Interior designer Holly Hickey Moore told HGTV. “When decorating clients’ homes for fall, I like to pull in those elements of the colors and textures. I’m excited to start pulling those deeper, moodier colors that bring my designs to a really sophisticated level.”

Metal

Elite Daily reported that metallic accents are great for fall decorating as well. Metallic textures and colors can help give your home an Earthy personality, helping cre ate a calm and comforting living space for the family.

“This is one of my favorite trends and it’s a great way to bring fall to life in a warm complementary way that’s easy to incorporate in any space of the home,” Home Goods Style Expert Jenny Reimold told Elite Daily.

Something as simple as making your cabinet handles pop with a metallic shine can redefine the space.

Earth tones

Brabbu echoed the popularity of metallic textures and nature-inspired designs by iterating the popularity of earth tones. From chocolatey blacks to faded yellows to verdant greens, earth tones are one of the top ways interior designers are giving personality to their clients’ living spaces.

Following two years of COVID-19-driven quarantine and a tumultuous news cycle of warring countries and a worsening global economy, many homeowners are look ing to transform their houses into respites of comfort and joy. This fall, things will be no different.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Playful shapes and ‘70s interiors are having a moment.t

Photo courtesy Dreamstime/TNS

Irreplaceable character exudes from this 1910 Craftsman bungalow. Many period details have been preserved. High ceilings throughout the home provide a spacious feel, and are accented by original mouldings. Wood floors line most rooms, illuminating the Craftsman style. While the home maintains its old world charm, upgrades have been added for more comfortable living. Enjoy the perfect Santa Barbara weather on the back patio , outfitted with a new fence and pavers. Rinse the beach sand off in the outdoor shower. Located in a very central Downtown location, this charming home offers the ideal Santa Barbara lifestyle. Jaunt 3 blocks to all the dining and shopping on State St, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and the lively Theatre District. Located in the highly desirable Peabody School District. SANTA BARBARA CA 93101

Plumber:

Versatile bathroom sink does double duty

By Ed Del Grande

A console-style bathroom sink is a higher-end item like a pedestal sink, but in place of a single large pedestal, it’s supported by a decorative support stand with two or four legs, depending on the installation required.

Photo courtesy Kohler/TNS

Wall-hung vanity can be a versatile bathroom choice

By Ed Del Grande

Question:

Hi Ed: We’re adding a small master bathroom and I’m look ing for something besides a vanity sink setup. I want open space under the sink but would also like it to be usable open space for storage. Do they make such a bathroom sink?

– Jodie

Answer:

I do have a creative and decorative bathroom sink idea for you. It’s not a vanity, a wall-hung sink or even a pedestal sink. It’s commonly called a console sink, and it combines features found in all three of the bathroom sinks I mentioned.

Basically, a console-style bathroom sink is a higher-end item like a pedestal sink, but in place of a single large pedestal, it’s supported by a decorative support stand with two or four legs, depending on the installation required. Because of this open support structure, under the sink is exposed, and that can help open up space when installed in a smaller bathroom.

But the advantages of console sinks don’t stop there. Usually the stand can also include shelving or even a drawer, giving you some bonus storage areas. Another advantage with a console sink is the large lavatory sink tops often include extra wide rims to place bathroom items.

Finally, besides storage, the decorative choices available can transform a console sink into the bathroom focal point, and that’s what I call practical magic.

Master Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book “Ed Del Grande’s House Call,” the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com. Al ways consult local contractors and codes.

©2022 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Question:

Ed: Read your previous column on installing pedestal sinks to create a more open look. We’re building a new home and the contractor suggested a wall-hung vanity. We like the storage aspect, but what other advantages can we expect?

– Jennifer

Answer:

A wall-hung vanity is basically a raised vanity cabinet that is supported to the wall and installed above the floor. Since it doesn’t sit on the floor, it’s often referred to as a floating vanity. This open-style unit is usually an upgrade because of the extra work to properly anchor it to the wall according to any codes and/or manufacturer’s instructions.

But even with the upgrade costs, wall-hung vanities do have additional advantages aside from the storage space. Advantages can include:

Installation versatility: Height can be adjustable as long as you stay within local codes. This can be helpful for special need users and aging in place bathroom remodeling jobs.

Extra space under the vanity: Having open space under the unit allows the user to get comfortably close to the sink, faucet and mirror. Also, this space can be a nice place to store things like a scale when not in use.

Easier bathroom cleaning: With a finished open floor under the unit, cleaning around the vanity can be a simpler task.

Add up all these features and it’s easy to see how you can be floored by your wall-hung vanity choice!

Master Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book “Ed Del Grande’s House Call,” the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com. Al ways consult local contractors and codes.

A wall-hung vanity is basically a raised vanity cabinet that is supported to the wall and installed above the floor. Since it doesn’t sit on the floor, it’s often referred to as a floating vanity.

Photo courtesy Kohler/TNS

Wide and meandering streets lead you through the hills above Solvang to this bright and cheerful, custom-built home located in Sunrise Village. Designed by reputable architect, Evans Jone s, this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath house is warm, welcoming, and conveniently located near schools, shopping, and parks. The home sits on a generous ½ acre lot with stunning views overlooking the Santa Ynez Valley.

Built in 1984, the 1,900+/- square foot house features an open floor plan with the kitchen, dining and living rooms all communicating easily. The living room features a fireplace, and the large kitchen has an eat-in breakfast room area with beautiful sunlit windows. The primary bedroom opens to a back yard deck and one of the two guest bedrooms opens on to a sunroom with views and privacy and access to the grass yard. The backyard is beautifully landscaped with low-maintenance turf and lush flower beds surrounding the various pergola covered patio areas. There is an attached oversized 2 car garage as well as a two-car carport. ADU potential.

Design Recipes:

How to wow with wallpaper

By Cathy Hobbs

In case you haven’t noticed, wallpaper is back — and it appears that it’s here to stay. A signature staple in the ‘70s, wallpaper later fell from favor. Labeled “dated,” those looking for bold color opted for painted accent walls instead of wallpaper. These days, wallpaper can be used in a variety of ways from residential to commercial settings, and for many designers it’s the go-to choice for bringing in graphics, prints and color. Looking for ways to incorporate wallpaper into your home? Here are some top tips.

Wallpaper is a bold print adds both height and drama in this master bedroom.

Photos courtesy Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS

WALLPAPER

DO’S

1. Do use wallpaper as an accent wall.

2. Do use wallpaper in spaces where you wish to incorporate graph ics and color.

3. Do blend an inspirational wall color with wallpaper to create a cohesive look.

4. Do use wallpaper to help add height or elongate a space.

5. Do use wallpaper such as grass cloth to add texture.

DON’TS

1. Don’t blend different patterns of wallpaper in the same space.

2. Don’t place big wallpaper prints in small spaces such as bath rooms.

3. Don’t overlook an opportunity to use wallpaper in creative ways such as on a ceiling.

4. Don’t assume that wallpaper has to bring in an element of color or pattern. Wallpaper can bring a sense of calm and neutrality to spaces as well.

5. Don’t be afraid to go bold and make an inspirational state or cre ate a focal point using wallpaper.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.

©2022 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Ask Angi:

How can I stay safe around my home?

Test smoke alarms on a regular basis, and replace them after 10 years.

Photo courtesy Dreamstime/TNS

By Paul F. P. Pogue

You may think of your home as a safe haven, but household accidents remain a leading cause of death in America. The good news is, you can protect yourself with safe habits. And like any habit, the more you practice safety, the more effective it gets. As you prepare for the change of seasons and the beginning of the school year, it’s an excellent time to review your home’s safety procedures. Keep these factors in mind for home safety and peace of mind:

Fire extinguishers: You need a fire extinguisher on each home floor, including one near the kitchen. Check the unit’s pressure gauge monthly and make sure it’s still in the green.

When selecting a home fire extinguisher, look for an ABC-rated unit. A-rated ex tinguishers are best for wood, paper, and textiles. B-rated units put out flammable liquids, and the C rating is for electrical fires. This covers most circumstances you’re likely to face in the home.

An extinguisher does no good if it’s not used. Place them in easily accessible spots, and ensure that all adults in the home know where they are and how to use them.

Smoke alarms: Smoke alarms are a critical line of defense if fire strikes your home, so don’t overlook them. An alarm should be on every floor, including the basement, and in each bedroom.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends getting interconnected smoke alarms. When one sounds, they all sound. This costs a bit extra but is well worth the cost.

Consider getting a combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarm; the NFPA recommends placing CO detectors everywhere you would place a smoke alarm. Test your smoke alarms once per month. The internal sensors get less sensitive over time, so replace them after 10 years.

Maintenance and cleaning: If you use a fireplace regularly, hire a chimney cleaning service every year. Regular chimney inspections and cleanings help keep it in excellent condition and prevent buildup that could cause fires.

Have a pro clean your dryer vents once a year. Lint buildup in vents poses a signifi cant fire risk. This work will also increase your dryer’s efficiency.

On average, chimney cleaning costs about $250, while dryer vent cleaning is about $140.

Escape plans: Make an escape plan with your family to determine the best path out of your home in an emergency. Practice the plan so that even the youngest family members know what to do if emergency strikes. Don’t forget to plan for what to do with your pets as well!

Electrical systems: If you have an older home, consider hiring an electrician to in spect your wiring and breaker system and ensure everything’s up to code. For instance, electrical outlets in any space that might get exposed to water, such as kitchens and bathrooms, should be GFCI outlets, which have their own internal circuit breakers that cut off power in the event of a surge. However, codes didn’t add these require ments until the 1970s and 1980s. Older homes may not be up to speed.

©2022 Ask Angi. Visit at angi.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

A wallpaper accent wall adds a burst of color to this bedroom.

Santa BarB ara County SaleS

This is a partial list of all recorded residential sales in Santa Barbara County from September 12 thru September 16, 2022. While these recordings are public record, the News-Press receives this information from an outside source. This list does not represent all sales that occurred over this time period. Consult your REALTOR® for further information regarding home sales in your area of interest.

AREA ADDRESS SELLER

BUELLTON / SOLVANG 1460 JENNILSA LN ARGENIO JAMES EU

CARPINTERIA 1364 CRAMER CIR

1325 LINHERE DR

1479 THERESA ST

GOLETA

LOMPOC

MONTECITO

BUYER PRICE DATE

KEMALYAN RONALD EA $2,850,000 9/13/2022

MCINERNEY TIMOTHY EA LIDDELL LOGAN $1,050,000 9/15/2022

LOMBARDI ANTHONY EU THIEL GARRETT $1,250,000 9/16/2022

BUUYER ACCEPTED LLC LEAHY ROBERT EU $1,499,000 9/12/2022

456 VIA EL ENCANTADOR WEIRUM ROBERT EU

KHODABENDEHLOO KHODAYAR EU $1,398,000 9/16/2022

5304 ORCHARD PARK LN REINERS ROBERT EA PANKEY LESLIE $1,640,000 9/16/2022

615 SUMMERWOOD LN

318 S B ST

1317 E LOCUST AVE

COOK MICHAEL EU

JHONSTONE ALICIA $475,000 9/16/2022

GUNDELL JENNIFER EU ARIAS RUBEN EA $480,000 9/16/2022

O’CONNOR KEVIN MORENO MIGUEL EU $570,000 9/16/2022

403 S H ST AMERISEED INC TEJEDA ADI EA $750,000 9/14/2022

319 HOT SPRINGS RD

MITCHELL STEVEN EA

1790 EUCALYPTUS HILL RD CHASE ALISON EA

ROUSH RAYMOND EA $1,900,000 9/16/2022

HUMPHREY CHRISTINA EA $2,567,000 9/12/2022

1944 EAST VALLEY RD FARMER SARAH BRANNING RICHARD EA $5,400,000 9/16/2022

495 SANTA ROSA LN HALLSTROM MICHAEL EA RISKIN ROBERT EA $7,350,000 9/14/2022

207 EUCALYPTUS HILL DR MUTTON NICHOLAS EA WALKER PATRICIA $7,900,000 9/16/2022

260 OAK RD

BBH INVESTMENTS 3 LLC ROCCHIO FAMILY REVOCABLE TRUST $13,600,000 9/16/2022

1284 MESA RD MESA BLUE LLC 1284 MONTECITO LLC $14,500,000 9/16/2022

838 KNAPP DR

HINES FAMILY INVESTMENTS VILLA MONTECITO LLC $18,250,000 9/15/2022

585 SYCAMORE VISTA RD HELKEY ROGER EU WICKMAN IAN EU $20,778,000 9/12/2022

SANTA BARBARA 219 POR LA MAR DR

TRIPLETT ROBERT EA CHIO RYAN $780,000 9/16/2022

310 POR LA MAR CIR RYAN CHRISTINA BURKE ROBERT $825,000 9/14/2022

3767 GREGGORY WAY 1 STEEN JANET LE NAM EU $1,100,000 9/14/2022

1616 VILLA AVE

2612 LAS POSITAS RD

2631 MONTROSE PL

1916 CHINO ST

FRANKLIN JOHN EA STOJANOVICH STEPHEN EU $1,226,000 9/14/2022

PETERSON JONATHAN EU ROUSE MADELINE EU $1,304,000 9/16/2022

MESA WEST COASTAL LLC SERRANO JOSEPH EU $1,880,000 9/16/2022

SALVUCCI ANGELO EA ALEXANDER SEAN EA $2,050,000 9/15/2022

350 CONEJO RD HLAVICSKA LESLIE MORRIS JEFF EA $2,400,000 9/16/2022

1076 MISSION CANYON RD

26 E ORTEGA ST

485 VIA DICHOSA

1524 DOVER RD

FRICKMANN RICHARD EA STEININGER MARC $2,500,000 9/16/2022

BORDERRE LYNNE EA INSIEME LLC $2,700,000 9/14/2022

LARKIN GROUOP SUSTAINABLE WOOLSEY THOMAS EU $3,500,000 9/15/2022

RUTKOWSKI FAMILY TRUST JACKSON NICHOLAS $4,750,000 9/15/2022

SANTA MARIA

2472 VILLAGE GREEN

400 W CHAPEL ST

HERR FREDERICK EA

MILLER AARON EA $345,000 9/13/2022

REED ROBERT PARVIN SHAHNAZ EU $420,000 9/16/2022

526 W MCELHANY AVE CHAVARRIA ELYSSA EA SUN WILLIAM $485,000 9/15/2022

2024 N LAZO WAY

838 E ARMSTRONG AVE

ALMAGUER ARMANDO EU CAMARENA ISAAC EA $485,500 9/15/2022

OUELLET DAVID EA

SUN WILLIAM $490,000 9/14/2022

3951 LOCH LOMOND DR FINE KRISTY SIERRA JOVANY EA $560,000 9/13/2022

Santa BarBara County SaleS

AREA ADDRESS

4756 TITAN ST

4679 CHERRY AVE

592 DE ARMOND PL

1338 ROPER WAY

SELLER

DE OCA FLORY

OGDEN DAVID EA

BUYER

PRICE DATE

ALVARADO CESAR EU $565,000 9/16/2022

MATA ALEJANDRO EA $575,000 9/16/2022

SOLORIO VICTORIA EU TINOCO PATRICIA EA $580,000 9/15/2022

FERNANDEZ KATHY EA MONSON SANDRA EU $601,000 9/13/2022

2432 N CESAR E. CHAVEZ DR FUNARO, ANTHONY W SANABRIA ONEYDA EU $645,000 9/13/2022

1842 S ALHAMBRA AVE HOUGAARD FAMILY TRUST 4/16/96 EARL CONSTANCE $649,500 9/16/2022

1107 S BROADWAY NORTHSTAR ADQUISITIONS RAINN PROPERTIES $750,000 9/16/2022

989 BRIARCLIFF DR PYBAS ERIK OGDEN DAVID EA $817,000 9/16/2022

SUMMERLAND 290 SHEFFIELD DR

SANTA YNEZ 3903 BLUEBIRD LN

UNICORP 683 CARINA DR

403 N BRIAN ST

416 MILKY WAY

1400 N B CT

112 VICTORY DR

752 PLUTO AVE

KOLODZIEJSKI DAN EU NEWMAN SONNY EA $9,000,000 9/13/2022

KARAS KENNETH EA

EDWARDS, GARY LEE

CERVANTES COLE EU $1,500,000 9/14/2022

BRADLEY BLAKE $500,000 9/14/2022

ROBERTSON TIMOTHY EU SMITH BRITANIE $515,000 9/13/2022

MOSBY FAMILY TRUST WALKER MICAELA EA $567,000 9/15/2022

DIXON JAMES EA

VASQUEZ DAVID EU $590,000 9/16/2022

WEST JOHN MARTIN JERRY EA $700,000 9/13/2022

LABINE CHRISTOPHER EU BUCHTER LIZA EA $770,000 9/14/2022

3879 CELESTIAL WY NASH JEREMY EU FARMER JEFFREY EA $794,000 9/15/2022

2291 CRYSTAL DR

WILSON MARCUS EU ESCHENBACH ALLEN EU $1,255,000 9/16/2022

Real Estate Q&A:

Do I have to pay a deductible for repair landlord is responsible for?

By Gary M. Singer

Question:

My lease deals with repairs with the following clause: “Tenant is responsible for all repairs $50.00 or less. Any repairs over $50.00 are the total responsibility of the Owner unless due to tenant negligence.” With the consent of my landlord, I recently had a $180 repair done. When I sent the invoice, I was only reimbursed $130. When I asked, he said I had a $50 deductible for repairs. Is he correct? Fay

Answer:

No, your landlord is not interpreting the lease agree ment correctly.

At its core, a contract is an expression of the intent of the people agreeing. The intent of the parties, or what at torneys call the “meeting of the minds,” creates the bind ing obligation.

Because words often vanish in the wind, a written con tract is usually preferred or, in some cases, required. A writ ten agreement clarifies the parties’ intent and expectations and can be referred to as time goes by and memories fade.

Over time, our legal system has developed rules to ob jectively interpret what the parties intended when they signed a contract. These rules, or “canons of construction,” provide a framework for figuring this out.

Several of these canons can be used to interpret your contract objectively. You should give the words used their ordinary, everyday meanings when the contract was signed. Nothing should be added to what the text states or reasonably implied. You cannot pick and choose words and phrases but must interpret the text as a whole.

Finally, the various parts of the agreement should be read to be compatible, not contradictory.

Using these rules to interpret your contract, it is clear that if a repair costs $50 or less, you will need to pay for it in full.

Your lease does not mention a deductible, and your landlord should reimburse you for the full amount of the repair because this is what you both agreed to.

Gary M. Singer is a Florida attorney and board-certified as an expert in real estate law by the Florida Bar. He practices real estate, business litigation and contract law from his office in Sunrise, Fla. He is the chairman of the Real Estate Section of the Broward County Bar Association and is a co-host of the weekly radio show Legal News and Review. He frequently consults on general real estate matters and trends in Florida with various companies across the nation. Follow him on Twitter @ GarySingerLaw.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

On Gardening:

Scarlet goes wild in hot new petunia

By Norman Winter

Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet petunia will quickly become the one in which all other red petunias will be compared. Although it is making its debut in 2023, the tsunami created from the beauty shown in 2022 trials is already causing market jitters. Will there be enough next spring? We can only hope.

Last February, I wrote about how the Supertunia Mini Vista petunias were racking up awards and, certainly in 2023, the new year will be a dream come true. Although I am touting Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet largely based on my trials, know that the University of Georgia just recognized Supertunia Mini Vista Midnight (also debuting in 2023) with a Plants of Distinction for July, which was nothing short of torrid for the heat.

Then one of the most talked-about plants at Young’s Plant Farm Annual Garden Tour in June was the new Supertunia Mini Vista Yellow. Holy wow, what a year 2023 is shaping up to be. At Mississippi State University’s Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet was nothing short of dazzling, a real attention-grabber. Of course, this is what we have all longed for in a red petunia, and this one promises to be like none other.

This container features triadic harmony or three colors equal distance apart on the color wheel. The plants are Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet petunia, Superbena Royale Chambray verbena and Superbells Yellow calibrachoa.

Photo courtesy Norman Winter/TNS

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PETUNIAS

If you haven’t tried the Mini Vista series yet, you will be delighted with their compact nature, which is 12 inches tall with a 24-inch spread. I’ve seen what seems like a million photos this summer from Supertunia Vista Bubblegum and the new Supertunia Vista Jazzberry. These are incredible award-winning petunias, the big boys, but the Mini Vistas are more refined or behaved, allowing you to really use them in combinations and designs.

Like all Supertunias, no matter the category, they will need plenty of sunlight to really perform. The soil should be moist, well drained and never boggy. When you think about a long growing season, feeding should be part of your regimen, especially so for those in containers, where the intense heat dictates a daily water application. I have gotten on a cycle of using a water-soluble mix every other week. Lastly — and this will prove hard for many — at some point in late summer, when they seem less productive, maybe leggy or open, cut them back with a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. You will be rewarded with new growth and blooms to carry you through fall.

All of my Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet petunias were used in various container combinations using my own recipes. This color of bright scarlet red is so fun to use, it just creates happiness. In one container I partnered it with Superbells Grape Punch calibrachoa, White Knight lobularia, and Goldilocks creeping Jenny. You simply can’t take your eyes off this petunia.

In a slight deviation from the recipe, I used Superbells Dreamsicle calibrachoa to give an analogous flair with the Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet while still using White Knight Sweet alyssum and Goldilocks creeping Jenny. By analogous, I am referencing two colors, in this case scarlet and orange, which are next to each other on the color wheel.

Lastly is the container where I created an eye-catching triadic harmony of color by partnering Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet petunia with Superbena Royale Chambray verbena and Superbells Yellow calibrachoa. Triadic harmony is created by picking out three colors with equal distance on the color wheel. My plants were young when planted, and I don’t think I realized what they would look like at maturity, a real wowzer.

By all means, don’t let color schemes or recipes throw you. I promise if you give Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet a try, you will feel like a pro designer. Hey, try all three new colors (scarlet, yellow and midnight) and you will create your own triadic harmony recipe.

Norman Winter, horticulturist, garden speaker and author of “Tough-as-Nails Flowers for the South” and “Captivating Combinations: Color and Style in the Garden.” Follow him on Facebook @NormanWinterTheGardenGuy.

Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet petunia makes its debut in 2023. Here it is dazzling in Mississippi State University’s Trial Garden at the Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station in Crystal Springs Mississippi.

Photo courtesy Mississippi State University/TNS

In this container Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet was partnered in an analogous color scheme or colors next to each other on a color wheel by combining with Superbells Dreamsicle calibrachoa, White Knight sweet alyssum and Goldilocks creeping Jenny.

Photo courtesy Norman Winter/TNS

The Garden Guy designed this container using Supertunia Mini Vista Scarlet petunia, Superbells Grape Punch calibrachoa, White Knight lobularia or sweet alyssum and Goldilocks creeping Jenny.

Photo courtesy Norman Winter/TNS

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