Hello! I am Joan Wilson REALTOR - 760-757-3468

August Event Calendar for San Diego

Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club Contest & Beach Festival     Aug. 1-3

The 30th annual event features coalition surf teams from all over California. The event will include a beach festival in the Junior Seau Pier Amphitheater with vendors selling food and merchandise. 6am-9pm. (760) 500-0745 / www.oceansidelongboardsurfingclub.org

Clairemont Family Day     Aug. 2
A festival in Clairemont offers residents a full day of fun. Not only is there food, merchandise, and musical entertainment, there are also games, pony rides, carnival rides, and a car show. Be sure to bring your swimsuit because the recreation center pool allows free swimming all day. 8am-6pm. South Clairemont Park. (858) 581-9924 /www.clairemontfamilyday.com 

Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert     Aug. 2
Little Italy is pleased to present a special summer concert performance by the traditional 40-piece Marine of San Diego Band as well as the Party Band, and Jazz Band. The music is sensational and will surely keep your feet tapping to the beat. Seating is limited, so come early. 6-8pm. West Fir Street. (619) 233-3898 /www.littleitalysd.com

San Diego Blood Bank 5K Run/Walk     Aug. 3
It begins and ends at the Embarcadero Marina Park near Seaport Village. A celebration festival accompanies the event. Proceeds will benefit the Blood Bank's lifesaving programs and services. 7am-12pm. (619) 400-8176 / www.sandiegobloodbank.org

North PB Sip N Stroll     Aug. 3
A community street fair in Pacific Beach showcases local businesses and provides patrons with an opportunity to sample beer & wine. In addition, there will be musical entertainment, food booths, a boutique area for shoppers, and an area where children can have fun. 11:30am-4:30pm. Cass Street. (858) 401-0849 / www.sipnstrollpb.com

Philippine Cultural Arts Festival     Aug. 9
The event presents costumed folk dance, music, and song from different regions of the Philippines. There is also a dance talent show. In addition, there are booths containing Philippine crafts and jewelry and delicious foods such as lumpia, adobo, and pancit.11am-6pm. Balboa Park. (619) 582-1773 / www.samahanphilippinedance.org

Bienvenidios Golden Hill     Aug. 9
Iglesia Presbiteriana Emmanuel will host this event to encourage community engagement and bring awareness of the church's programs such as Bible study and English classes. The event includes prayer, mariachi music, games, prizes, hotdogs, a bounce house, and information booths. 3-6pm. 2691 B St. (619) 708-3512 / www.upliftsandiego.org

Hillcrest CityFest     Aug. 10
This popular festival showcases urban living. There's staged entertainment, a carnival with rides & games, merchandise, a beer garden, and a dance party. Other highlights include a dunk tank, mechanical bull rides, craft activities, and a water mist cool-off zone. 12-11:30pm. (619) 233-5008 / www.hillcrestcityfest.com

HarborFest 2014     Aug. 16
This year's annual HarborFest will have everything you could possibly want at a FREE, family-friendly celebration. 11am-8pm. Bayside Park Chula Vista: J Street exit from I-5.www.mcfarlanepromotions.com

37th America's Finest City Half Marathon     Aug. 17
This world famous event is one of the largest half marathons in the nation. Athletes across the country are joined by others from foreign countries. The course begins at the Cabrillo Monument and finishes at Balboa Park. In conjunction with the "America's Finest City 5K Run/Walk". 7-11am. (760) 692-2900 / www.afchalf.com

Stone 18th Anniversary Celebration & Invitational Beer Festival     Aug. 16
This year will feature an expanded festival area, more than 50 guest breweries, more than 100 amazing beers, Stone brews on cask, free home-brewed sodas and samples of Mike's Beer Cheese. 11am-6pm. Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens: Cal State San Marcos. (760) 294-7899 / www.stoneworldbistro.com

Canine Companions Invitational Golf Classic     Aug. 22
Enjoy a great round of golf at one of Southern California's finest resorts and at the same time support an exceptional organization, Canine companions for Independence. 8am. Omni La Costa Resort, Carlsbad. 800-572-2275 / www.ccigolf.org

Mira Mesa Festival of Beers     Aug. 23
Beer lovers are coming to Mira Mesa to sample craft beers from local breweries where patrons (age 21+) can sample up to 18 different beers of their choice. It's a lively event in a party atmosphere where you can meet and mingle amid music, dancing, food and beer. 1-6pm. Mira Mesa Community Park: 8575 New Salem St. (619) 549-2644 /www.miramesabeerfest.com

Bike The Bay     Aug. 24
Cyclists can join a non-competitive 25-mile bike ride that begins at the Embarcadero Marina Park South and travels around the San Diego Bay via the Bayshore Bikeway and across the Coronado Bay Bridge. It's a scenic route with great view of the city landscape. The event concludes with festivities. 7am-1pm. (619) 977-2989 /www.bikethebay.net 

Beach Rockin'     Aug. 24
This is a live concert fundraiser for Maltese Rescue California, a 501(c) Organization. Food will be sold by Great Smith, Yummy Cupcakes, and Tin Fish. Beer, Wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase as well. 3-8pm. Junior Seau Pier Amphitheater.www.ci.oceanside.ca.us

End of Summer 4-Mile Run/Walk     Aug. 24
This summertime 4-mile run/walk will travel from La Jolla to Pacific Beach. The course goes through lofty neighborhoods along the coast. The event concludes with an awards ceremony. Proceeds from the event benefit the San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation. 8am-10pm. (619) 298-7400 / www.kathyloperevents.com 

Wild Rides Car Show - Pacific Beach      Aug. 24
Features a display of hot rods and classic cars; plus auto-related merchandise, food, music, a dance performance, and an entertaining magician. Don't miss the celebrity appearance of Catharine Back (Daisy Duke) and a dragster demonstration called the "Wild Thing". (760) 440-0896 / www.socalcarculture.com 

Festival of Sail     Aug. 29-Sept. 1
The Maritime Museum offers passports where you can board and explore tall and iconic vessels, meet the crewmen, and learn about life at sea. You'll hear amazing stories of cannon battles and raiding pirates. In addition, the event also offers food, drink, and a visit inside the Maritime Museum. 9am-5pm. North Harbor Drive. (619) 234-9153 x-106 / www.sdmaritime.org

Hormel Black Label Bacon Fest     Aug. 30
This premier event is designed for bacon enthusiasts age 21+. Guests receive delicious samplings of bacon-inspired foods prepared by top chefs and delightful beverages from local breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Music selections are soul, blues, and contemporary rock. 1-5pm. Liberty Station. (858) 518-8888 / www.sdbaconfest.com

Del Mar Racing Season      Through Sept. 3
Summertime in Del Mar means one thing, the horse races! Join the locals in this infamous event. Watch horses, mingle, enter contests, etc! Check the web site for the latest schedule. Del Mar Fairgrounds: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.dmtc.com

What the flag draped coffin really means

All Americans should be given this lesson. Those who think that America is an arrogant nation should really reconsider that thought. Our founding fathers used GOD's word and teachings to establish our Great Nation and I think it's high time Americans get re-educated about this Nation's history.
Pass it along and be proud of the country we live in, and even more proud of those who serve to protect our 'GOD-GIVEN' rights and freedoms. 
I hope you take the time to read this .... To understand what the flag draped coffin really means .. Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers:
Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?
Have you ever noticed that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!
The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, 'Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.'

The 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that they pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America , and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic..

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.
The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born.

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.
The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding them of their Nations motto, 'In God We Trust.'

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today.
There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why.
Share this with the children you love and all others who love what is referred to as the symbol of ' Liberty and Freedom.'

8 Things To Do Before You Go On Vacation

8 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU GO ON VACATION

You are ready to take that well deserved vacation! Here are a few ideas to improve your vacation and your return home. Well worth a few minutes before you go.

1. Hold All of Your Mail and Newspapers or Ask a Neighbor to Pick Them Up

A pile of newspapers on the front stoop is a dead giveaway that you’re out of town and off of your property.

2. Remove Your Spare Key

Leaving an extra key under the doormat or in a fake rock isn’t a great idea while you’re on vacation. If you have a spare key, give it to a neighbor you trust while you’re away.

3. Close Your Curtains and Shades

You don’t want people to peer into your house and see that it’s empty today. And tomorrow. And the next day… Bonus: Closing your curtains and shades will save you money on your energy bills by keeping the sun out!

4. Turn Down Your Hot Water Heater

An empty house doesn’t need hot water, and your water heater will cost you money while you’re gone. So turn it down!

5. Clean Out Your Fridge

The last thing you want when you return home is to open the fridge and smell curdled milk. Before you leave, toss anything that might spoil during your trip.

6. Sprinkle Baking Soda in the Toilet

To avoid being greeted by the nasty stench of stagnant water when you get home, sprinkle baking soda in the toilet bowl. This also works with sink drains.

7. Unplug Your Appliances

There’s no need to waste energy on toasters, computers, televisions and other appliances while you’re gone. Instead, unplug them. 

8. Take Out the Garbage

Unless you like the smell of garbage permeating your house, take it out now.

Bonus

9. Empty Your Washer

Moist clothes will attract mildew and mold if they’re left in the washing machine. Before you go, make sure that your machine is clear and your clothes are dry.  Also, it’s a good idea to turn off the water to the washer, too, so that if it leaks, you won’t have a flooded laundry room.

10. Adjust Your Thermostat

Save energy and money by adjusting your thermostat while your gone. There’s no reason to cool an empty house!

Have a great vacation!

Joan Wilson ^{(Realtor, SRES, Ecobroker, Certified REO, HAFA, and Short Sale Specialist)}

Pacific Sotheby's International Realty

Call or Text: 760-757-3468

joan@joanwilsonrealtor.com

I believe buying or selling a home should be fun, easy, and stress free. Let me show you how.

CAL BRE License # 01341483

http://JoanWilsonRealtor.com

May 2014 was a Seller's market* in San Diego County

It's interesting that we are already past the busy home selling season in San Diego county, but we are. There are more homes listed, and fewer sales. Read more



If you are looking for a smooth real estate transaction, call or email me and I will help.

San Diego County Real Estate Agent Joan Wilson Realtor 760-757-3468:



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Want to know your home value without talking with a REALTOR? Click Here

Father's Day Events

I just want to take a minute and wish all you Dad's out there the BEST DAD DAY YET! And if you are looking for some fun things to do, take a look at some of my favorite things to do/

Engineer-For-An-Hour At Pacific Southwest Railway Museum

Saturday, June 14, 2014, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A rare opportunity to take the controls of a powerful diesel railroad locomotive and power it down the track, using air-brake, throttle, bell and horn, at the 40-acre Pacific Southwest Railway Museum.

Father's Day Sleepover At San Diego Zoo

Saturday, June 14, 2014, 4 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Fathers and their little tykes (ages four and older) can enjoy the thrill of camping without the hassle of hauling gear and provisions to the woods. The adventure begins as soon as you check in.

Father's Day Sleepover At SeaWorld

Saturday, June 14, 2014, 5:45 p.m.

Create family memories that will last a lifetime. For anyone who loves animals, a SeaWorld Sleepover just might be the most exciting and unforgettable overnight experience ever.

Father's Day 'Beer n Brats' Brunch Cruise

Sunday, June 15, 2014, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Give your dad the gift of delicious food, amazing scenery and great entertainment all aboard the finest fleet of yachts in San Diego. Menu highlights include Bratwursts with sauerkraut and hot mustard and a fountain of chocolate.

Of course, there will be lot of things going on around San Diego and for more ideas....

Father's Day Events | KPBS:

$10,000 Furniture Makeover

Monday, June 9 is the final day of The Champions of Home™ $10,000 Furniture Makeover Sweepstakes, where participants have the chance to win $10,000 to use toward furniture/staging.http://www.championsofhomesweeps.com/

Thought You'd be Interested in the value of your home

Thought You'd be Interested

Tax writeoffs that help homeowners - MSN Real Estate

Real Estate is still a good investment, and you get write offs too!



The good news is you can deduct many home-related expenses. These tax breaks are available for any abode -- mobile home, single-family residence, town house, condominium or cooperative apartment.



Tax writeoffs that help homeowners - MSN Real Estate:



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It time to buy a home! Call Joan Wilson at 760-757-3468 today to start looking at the best on the market.

VA Minimum Property Standards Guide

Minimum Property Standards Guide:
Is That Listing Ready for a VA Buyer?

Below is a list of VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) 
for existing homes that can be used as a screening checklist.
 

o    General:  Must be free of hazards that affect the health and safety of occupants, structural soundness of property, or impair the use and enjoyment of property. o    Handrails required on stairs with 3 or more risers. o    Severe tripping hazards must be remedied (i.e., major buckling of concrete). o    25% maximum non-residential use. o    Mechanical systems must be adequate, safe, and protected from elements. o    Conventional heating system must be present in all homes to maintain temperature of 50 degrees in areas with plumbing (i.e., wood stove cannot be only heat source). o    Solar systems for water and space heating must have reliable backup system. o    Roof must have 2 years of remaining life and no more than 3 layers of shingles. o    Crawlspace must have adequate access, be clear of debris and be properly vented.  Must have access to ductwork and plumbing. o    Excessive dampness or ponding of water in crawlspace must be corrected. o    Natural ventilation of attics and crawl spaces must be provided. o    Laundry and storage space may be shared in a 2-4 unit. o    Rear yard must have access.  Row units may be by means of alley, easement, or passage through subject dwelling. o    Private streets must have permanent easement and be maintained by HOA or maintenance agreement.

o    Streets must have all-weather surface. o    Living unit must have its own access. o    Unit utilities may not pass over, under or through another living unit unless there is legal and permanent access for maintenance and repair. o    Must be space between buildings for maintenance of exterior walls. o    Termite cert required.  Treatment required if necessary. o    Lot must drain away from dwelling. o    Exterior wood must be protected from elements.  Chipped or peeling paint must be remedied. o    Properties built prior to 1978 must have all defective paint surfaces remedied both interior and exterior. o    Property cannot be located within a high-pressure gas or petroleum easement.  If located within 220 yards special certifications will be required. o    Property cannot be located within a high-voltage electric line easement. o    Connection to public water/sewer disposal systems is only required when mandated by building, planning or health authorities. o    Private water systems must be tested. o    Water treatment systems are allowed only if public water is not available and water supply is from aquifer confirmed uncontaminated by health department. o    Shared wells must be adequate and have maintenance and well-sharing agreements.

February 2014 is a Seller's market in San Diego County!

February 2014 is a Seller's market in San Diego County! The number of for sale listings was up 38.4% from one year earlier and up 2.3% from previous month. The number of sold listings decreased 16.3% year over year and increased 1.2% month over month. The number of under contract listings was up

16.5% comparing to previous month and up 0.1% comparing to previous year. The Months of Inventory based on Closed Sales is 2.9, up 65.3% from previous year. 

The Average Sold Price per Square Footage was down 3.1% comparing to previous month and up 18.8% comparing to last year. The Median Sold Price increased by 2% from last month. The Average Sold Price also decreased by 4.9% from last month. Based on the 6 month trend, the Average Sold Price trend is "Depreciating" and the Median Sold Price trend is "Neutral". 

The Average Days on Market showed a neutral trend, a decrease of 23.9% comparing to previous year. The ratio of Sold Price vs. Original List Price is 94%, a decrease of 2.1% comparing to previous year. 

San Diego county’s housing trends at a glance

San Diego county’s housing trends at a glance. Indicators provided are sales, median prices, inventory indicators, and so much more! Our housing market is getting better. Prices are up a little. There are fewer short sales and foreclosures. San Diego county is recovering better than a lot of areas! Click Here for full report.

Thinking about buying or selling? Let me help you help you interpret the data and make the right choice for you. Give me a call at 760-757-3468.

It Pays to Use a REALTOR®

Not only do I have the best job! I get to work with the best people! 

If you are looking to sell your home, ask to see my marketing plan! 

I can get your home sold quickly for more.

Joan Wilson

760-757-3468

For a hassle free home evaluation delivered to you via email, click here.

3 build-able parcels for a total of 22 gently sloping acres on a paved road

3 build-able parcels for a total of 22 gently sloping acres on a paved road. Build your dream home or your family compound (1-3 homes) and enjoy the 4 seasons that San Diego County has to offer. Come take a look at all the possibilities.

January Housing Starts Down, Forces Home Prices Up!

• The housing starts forecasts are for 1.2 million in 2014 and 1.4 million in 2015. That is still not sufficient. Home prices will be moving higher as a result. Call 760-757-3468 for a no obligation Market Analysis of your home, or fill out this form online. Click Here!

January Housing Starts

One Thing Real Estate Investors Need to Be Successful

To be a successful real estate investor, you need consistent cash flow to pay the
bills and generate some cash savings for your next investment. 



That's why the best deals for new investors are quick deals that pay cash every week.  This provides a consistent cash
flow.



Looking to invest in real estate? Add a Realtor to your inner advisor circle that will help you locate profitable properties.



Call Joan Wilson today at 760-757-3468

Thank you,

Joan Wilson ^{(Realtor, SRES, Ecobroker, Certified REO, HAFA, and Short Sale Specialist)}

Pacific Sotheby's International Realty

Call or Text: 760-757-3468

joan@joanwilsonrealtor.com

CAL BRE License # 01341483

http://JoanWilsonRealtor.com

January 2014 is a Neutral Real Estate market in San Diego

Home For Sale in January 2014: 6057 units.

•	Up 5.8% compared to the last month
•	Up 35.8% compared to the last year

Home Closed in January 2014: 1983 units.

•	Down 25.7% compared to the last month
•	Down 19.6% compared to the last year

Home Placed under Contract in January 2014: 2798 units.

•	Up 36.8% compared to the last month
•	Down 6% compared to the last year

If you don't own a home, it is a good time to buy! Call me today at 760-757-3468 to see your dream home.

If you own a home, and want to know the value of your home today with no obligation, Click Here

Joan Wilson ^{(Realtor, SRES, Ecobroker, Certified REO, HAFA, and Short Sale Specialist)}

Pacific Sotheby's International Realty

Call or Text: 760-757-3468

joan@joanwilsonrealtor.com

CAL BRE License # 01341483