cookout

The other day I was talking with a friend who lives in Texas, she said she was excited as she was preparing for her Family’s Annual Summer “Cookout”! I hadn’t heard the word “Cookout” in a while. I haven’t called it a “Cookout” since I was a kid. Today I say we are having a “Barbeque” or we are having a “Picnic” or we are “Grilling”, or for those that attended “Kabob-a-Palooza in the Summer of 2005” “Firin’ Up Thor!””Thor” is the name of my grill. Thor, the sweet honey of a Stainless Steel, 6-burner with side burner for my mops/sauces. Thor’s inaugural Grill-a-thon was where I put everything I could on a skewer and grilled EVERYTHING. We had a group of people supping on grilled vegetables, beef, chicken, fish and fruits. And for vegetarians in attendance for whom I made my almost-famous spinach lasagna and eggplant-parm. So now that Summer is full swing, it got me to thinking…
What does this have to do with Real Estate in Santa Clarita Valley, CA?Where do you grill today? Do you have a balcony in a Apartment? Do you have an Entertainer’s patio with a swim-up bar? Do you have your own “Thor”? Do you want a place to grill and share with family and friends in your great backyard, or are you looking for more of the hardscape-greenscape of patios, Vine covered Trellis, couches around the fire pit? And if you already have such a living space and are thinking of Selling, we provide Real Estate Support using new and tried and true professional methods to help get your property sold as quickly as possible and to get your home sold at the highest possible price with the least amount of hassles! For all your real estate needs contact the HomeTeamForSCV at 661-309-3195.

Area Housing StatisticsFor this month’s Real Estate Statistics for the Santa Clarita Valley, CA Click HERE
The current real estate statistics for Residential Properties in the Santa Clarita Valley area, including homes in Castaic, Canyon Country, Newhall, Castaic, Santa Clarita, Saugus, Stevenson Ranch and Valencia. And here to get your very own  FREE MARKET EVALUATION

Let me know how my team and I can help. As REALTORS my team and I continuously monitor local real estate statistics to keep our clients informed and ahead of the real estate trends. Please contact me

• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home in the Santa Clarita Valley.
• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home outside of my areas of service. I can put you in touch with the best REALTOR in your area.
• If you have any Real Estate questions my team and I can help you answer.

My team and I look forward to speaking with you! 661-309-3195

American Dreamin'

On the heels of US Constitution Day, here we are at Columbus Day. My son and I are reading Alistair Cooke’s America, where we are recounting the steps of the New Found Land. The episode highlights Columbus’s plight into heading to the West. Statuesque for the time, the tall redhead of Columbus has a vision, a dream where it took over 20 years to secure a sponsor to finance such a path that would lead us toward the discovery of America. It was inspiring to think of a driven man who did not do it alone. In addition to Ferdinand and Isabella’s investment, he also needed mariners, ship hands, supplies, etc. Columbus was fixated on the dream of his goal. A mission, the plan, a pioneer and visionary to get there and stay there and make such an impact to inspire others and not just the possibility, but also the logistical care and support to make it a reality.



What does this have to do with Real Estate in the Santa Clarita Valley, CA?

Christopher Columbus did not do it alone. He teamed up with professionals and those that were enthusiastic about his mission to make it a reality, each step and every day. Is your Dream the American Dream of homeownership? Your team is your lender and your REALTOR. Someone who shares your dreams of a place where you can grow and thrive while putting the home buying process in perspective in today’s market.

Are you considering Selling a home? Is your home too big, too small? Is it time for retirement, are you thinking of relocating? Team-up with professional marketing and get real estate support with a Local Team that has your interest in mind. And if is time where you need to sell your home? Refocusing your finances and starting to talk about the options if you are in a home that you cannot afford, does not mean you give up on the American Dream, here too there is the opportunity to get your finances back on track is part of the American Dream too: to Learn, to face our options and to persevere.

Helpful Links

http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/alistair-cooke-america/

http://hometeamforscv.com/

http://holidays.kaboose.com/columbus-day/



Area Housing Statistics
For this month’s Real Estate Statistics for the Santa Clarita Valley, CA Click HERE
The current real estate statistics for Residential Properties in the Santa Clarita Valley area, including homes in Castaic, Canyon Country, Newhall, Castaic, Santa Clarita, Saugus, Stevenson Ranch and Valencia. And here to get your very own FREE MARKET EVALUATION



Let me know how my team and I can help. As REALTORS my team and I continuously monitor local real estate statistics to keep our clients informed and ahead of the real estate trends. Please contact me

• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home in the Santa Clarita Valley.

• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home outside of my areas of service. I can put you in touch with the best REALTOR in your area.

• If you have any Real Estate questions my team and I can help you answer.

My team and I look forward to speaking with you! 661-309-3195 or email

Blogger Bio


Leah Pollack is a REALTOR®, California Licensed Broker, and has earned NAR’s GREEN designation. DRE #01805569 knowledgeable in Traditional and Short Sale real estate transaction processes for buyers and sellers of Real Estate. Call today! Contact information for Leah 661-309-3195
http://www.leahpollack.com/

freshen up!

When my son was young, we would ask “Do you need to go potty?” Not so discreet, but from the signs of crossed-ankles or buckled knees, it was the best way to communicate that I knew he needed to go even before he did.  Now when I call out “Hey where are you?” the response hollered back from down the hall is: “I am in the Restroom!”  I am joyous that he is now self-aware, but what caught me off-guard was his usage of the phrase “The Restroom”.  Formal, I know, but more pleasing to hear than I am “in the can”, or “on the commode”, or “visiting the water-closet”.  But honestly this small phrase choice had me thinking how I, when with adults, refer to the ‘restroom’.  When did the number scheme happen “#1”, “#2”, perhaps used to assist more to determine the duration of the event and for those with very young children, what to take with you from the diaper or tackle-bag.  I think my family was extremely informal to the point of humor and possible crassness….one could reference any one of the Mike Meyers skits here.  Today, I must admit that in private, humor may take charge, but in public I am more demure and simply say I am going to go “Freshen-Up”.
What does this have to do with Real Estate in Santa Clarita Valley, CA?
However you excuse yourself from the couch, or the kitchen table, if you are headed to the commode, the can, or the head, and are looking to go into your basic tile with a basin, or ceramic and porcelain, if you are looking for grab-bars, or granite, tank toilets, jetted tubs, or separate shower stalls let me and my team help you find the home with the bathroom where you can go Freshen Up!
And if you already have a standard lavatory or a decadent loo as your peaceful personal retreat and are thinking of Selling, our marketing team will showcase your home from faucet to foyer, for bedroom to bidet!  For all your real estate needs contact the HomeTeamForSCV at 661-309-3195.

Area Housing Statistics
For recent Real Estate Statistics for the Santa Clarita Valley, CA Click HERE
The current real estate statistics for Residential Properties in the Santa Clarita Valley area, including homes in Castaic, Canyon Country, Newhall, Castaic, Santa Clarita, Saugus, Stevenson Ranch and Valencia.  If you would like stats for YOUR neighborhood Visit http://HomeValuesForSCV.com
Let me know how my team and I can help. As REALTORS my team and I continuously monitor local real estate statistics to keep our clients informed and ahead of the real estate trends. Please contact me

• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home in the Santa Clarita Valley.
• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home outside of my areas of service. I can put you in touch with the best REALTOR in your area.
• If you have any Real Estate questions my team and I can help you answer.

My team and I look forward to speaking with you!

Blogger Bio

Leah Pollack is a REALTOR®, California Licensed Broker, and has earned NAR’s GREEN designation. DRE #01805569   Call today! Leah Pollack at 661-309-3195 or click  http://www.LeahPollack.com

purple object in ear

Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/user/HouseEar#p/u/6/2vcJDhsAkEI

Sharing this to help others, especially as kids get older and may not need immunizations, they may skip a well-appointment and not catch something like this. Max had no discomfort or hearing loss and luckily the object was discovered during his well-visit! Check into the link which includes an in-camera view of the procedure.

I am not sure who said it.. "It is not only what occurs in our health, but the comparisons to the baselines of what was last year, or over-time that is meaningful to overall health and wellness."

We hope that our story helps both the House Ear Clinic share its fantastic services and staff with the world but also benefits other families to know that when things are discovered to care for them quickly and with the best!

http://www.houseearclinic.com/

Regards,

Leah Pollack

phone: 661-309-3195

REALTOR®, GREEN Licensed Broker #01805569

Putting Your Home Needs First http://www.scvFirstHome.com

Selling a home? http://value.scvFirstHome.com

Facing Foreclosure? Get Options, FREE Information, No Obligation: http://www.scvfacingforeclosure.com

Be Water SMART – Interview w/ Valencia Water Co

Or Click: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktjj0IjGjwA

As summer nears, you may think about updating your sprinkler settings. Keep in mind there are some good Water Usefulness practices available to you with Santa Clartita Valley Conservation Programs and information. Enjoy this interview I conducted with the Valencia Water Company on the new Water SMART Allocation Program and what you need to know.

What does this have to do with Real Estate in the Santa Clarita Valley?

Living in your home or when considering a new home, you may be interested in what is the Maintenance Cost of one home versus another. It may soon be a disclosure when selling your home. Understanding how you use water, how often, how much and how it is being charged will empower you to make better choices while still enjoying your home and your life here in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Please contact me:
If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home in the Santa Clarita Valley.
If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home outside of my areas of service. I can put you in touch with the best Realtor® in your area.
If you have any Real Estate questions I can help you answer.
I look forward to speaking with you!

Leah Pollack is a REALTOR®, California Licensed Broker, and has earned NAR’s GREEN designation. DRE #01805569 knowledgeable in Traditional and Short Sale real estate transaction processes as well as Home Retention Options. Call today! Contact information for Leah 661-309-3195 http://www.leahpollack.com

http://www.valenciawater.com

NO MORE CALIFORNIA STATE TAX ON FORGIVEN DEBT*

Here is an update on those who may need to consider Short Sale or Foreclosure. You MUST consult your CPA or Tax Advisoras conditions, restrictions, guidelines, etc. may apply.



**No More State Tax on Forgiven Debt:
Distressed homeowners no longer have to pay California state income tax on debt forgiven in a short sale, foreclosure, or loan modification. Enacted into law yesterday, Senate Bill 401 generally aligns California's tax treatment of mortgage debt relief income with federal law. For debt forgiven on a loan secured by a "qualified principal residence," borrowers will now be exempt from both federal and state income tax consequences. The existing federal exemption is for indebtedness up to $2 million, whereas the new California exemption is for indebtedness up to $800,000 and forgiven debt up to $500,000.
"Qualified principal residence" indebtedness is defined as debt incurred in acquiring, constructing, or substantially improving a principal residence. It includes both first and second trust deeds. It also includes a refinance loan to the extent the funds were used to payoff a previous loan that would have qualified.
The tax breaks apply to debts discharged from 2009 through 2012. Californians who have already filed their 2009 tax returns may claim the exemption by filing a Form 540X amendment. Taxpayers who do not qualify for the above exemptions (e.g., second home or rental property) may nevertheless be exempt under other provisions. Most notably, taxpayers who are bankrupt are exempt from debt relief income tax. Also, taxpayers who are insolvent are exempt from debt relief income tax to the extent their current liabilities exceed current assets.

For more information about mortgage forgiveness tax consequences, go to:
California Franchise Tax Board's Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Extended webpage and the Internal Revenue Service's Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act and Debt Cancellation webpage.
The full text of Senate Bill 401 is available at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/.





**Brought to you by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® April 13, 2010. This information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.







For a FREE one-on-one discussion on home options. Please contact me.

• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home in the Santa Clarita Valley.
  
• If you are looking to buy, sell or lease your home outside of my areas of service. I can put you in touch with the best Realtor® in your area.


• If you have any Real Estate questions I can help you answer.

I look forward to speaking with you!

Leah Pollack is a REALTOR®, California Licensed Broker, and has earned NAR’s GREEN designation. DRE #01805569 knowledgeable in Traditional and Short Sale real estate transaction processes as well as Home Retention Options. Call today! Contact information for Leah 661-309-3195 http://www.leahpollack.com/

Oct 10, 2009 - Leona Valley Gala Under the Stars / Taste of Autumn /Wine Tasting - Leona Valley, CA

Santa Clarita takes this oppportunity to walk the prominade with the folks in Leona Valley and enjoy spending a very peaceful evening under the stars. This evening is about raising funds for kids with hearing impairments.

Saturday, October 10th. from 5-10 pm at our local Heritage Park - 8367 Elizabeth Lake Road in Leona Valley just above the community building.

The admission is just $35.00 which includes a commemorative wine glass provided by Rally Auto Group.

Dance to the music of Jim Scimonetti's Jazz Quartet while tasting delectible appetizers from Eduardo's, Fresco 11, Crazy Otto's and The Rock Inn. Wine tasting from Agua Dulce Vineyards, Antelope Valley Winery, Cameo and Leona Valley Winery. Beer tasting by BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse AND, Anheusr-Busch Desserts by Anna's Bakery and Cakes by Carol. Door prizes are the Fillmore & Western Murder Mystery, Queen Mary over night stay in their Stateroom, ParkLane jewelry, Aquarium of the Pacific tickets, San Diego Harbor tour and many special gift baskets.

Tickets are available at Antelope Valley Winery ----- 42041 20th. St West and Ave. "M"in Lancaster ---- Or, by calling Jan at 661-270-0300

This FALL 2009 Leona Valley hosts their wine tasting event OCT 10, 2009 For more information Call Jan Clark 661-270-0300 or visit:Hosted by Service To Mankind http://www.leonavalleysertoma.org

Featuring Local Wineries
www.leonavalleywinery.com
www.avwinery.com
Smith Valley Winery
www.aguadulcevineyards.com

Enjoy the World around you!
Leah Pollack
Elite Professionals Real Estate Services, Inc.

http://www.eliteprosre.com

Enjoying Your Home - Do Your Homework on Contractors

Today, if you DON'T REALLY NEED to sell your home, perhaps you are taking the time to REALLY ENJOY your home. There may be a tendency to do some updates, some decorating, some shifting around of chatchkees (- decorative dust-collectors that are pleasing to the eye of the beholder, but serve no functional purpose).

You may be doing the work yourself and for that I am inspired by you. For those that need the help of a handyman, a painter, or other service provider - I repeat here the words of caution "Do YOUR Homework and CHECK THEM OUT!" Over the last few months I have either heard or read about unlicensed folks being arrested or working in homes and buildings where the work done was more expensive to fix than if the owner did their homework on the worker. Just like in the Real Estate Profession being licensed means something. A code, a level of service and accountability by which we are held.

Here comes the disclaimer, each field has issues. Practicioners are human. But when it comes to contractors, do your homework. Ask people you know for a referral, but don't stop there. Check into their Business License (insured and bonded). To research local contractors, a good place to consider calling is your local trade association of local contractors, suppliers and service providers. You also may want to give a call to the Chamber of Commerce in your area and they may be able to help as well.

The Santa Clarita Business Exchange 888-757-7229 http://www.scbx.us

The SCV Chamber of Commerce is http://www.scvchamber.com


Here is the Story on Unlicensed Contractors:
http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/los_angeles&id=6483054



I hope you find the information above helpful.

Enjoy the day!
Regards,
Leah Pollack
Elite Professionals Real Estate Services, Inc.
website: http://www.eliteprosre.com
Celebrate and Educate! Learn helpful hints from local resources: http://www.eliteprosre.com/Concierge.aspx

Got VLOG? http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=249DF89D1B23AB92

Real Estate Showcased Properties: http://www.eliteprosre.com/Videos.aspx

Hello from Santa Clarita...On to the Races!

As my first installation of the 'blog' I am
posting up one of my 'goto' events in Santa
Clarita of the year. I call it our February
"Cheer-On", as we cheer-on the cyclists at
the Amgen Tour of California! LOL. Ah, yes
fair blogging friends you are in for a wild
ride, filled with wit! All I ask is that
you stay hydrated... as with all this
laughing, I would hate for you to become a
little low on fluids.

Here are some photos...

And here is a snipet of video... truly good
times....

Enjoy the day!

Leah Pollack

Your Real Estate Investing Resource

www.leahpollack.com