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

Game On!

Do you remember Winter?  All I remember is that it rained.  It rained and it rained!  I am very grateful as my family back east continues to remind me, “you don’t shovel rain!” Also, I am hopeful that our water purveyors throughout the Santa Clarita Valley will add this ‘sky-fallen liquidness’ to our water reserves and make best use of the increase to the water table. The rain also allowed my family to stay in and enjoy our home and our board games.  Years back we found a bookshelf that took our board and card games out of our ‘ye ole’ box and put them on display and in reach for an occasion such as a rainy day.  So where Facebook was riddled with ‘Game Called, on account of rain’, we were shouting “Game On, on account of rain!”

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

When the rain falls there is no place like home! Whether you watch TV, toss a fire in the fireplace, or get together to enjoy the Great Indoors! And if you are looking for a place to display your board games, or need a bigger place for your game table, you need a place with its own game room, give me and my team a call 661-309-3195.

Here are Your Monthly Real Estate Stats for the Santa Clarita Valley:  CLICK HERE

Link includes 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!

sweet home

Apple picking in Maine, Cherry Picking in Leona Valley, CA, Fruit Festivals in and around the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond! The other day I was assembling breakfast looking for the sweet compliment to end to my meal. I checked the fruit drawer in the fridge, the cupboard shelves, and in between the kitchen counter and the stove, my selection was made! So there I was… navigating this ripe mango with a knife and teeth, thoroughly enjoying the sweetness and challenge to discover just how much more of the strands and juice I could wiggle free… it dawned on me I could never eat one of these in public. It just would not be the same. As I scraped to the core of the pit, reassured that floss that was at hand, I resolved myself that some pleasures are meant for the privacy of your own home.


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

Whether you are storing your fruits in the fridge or on the counter, or if you are want to pluck and peel the fruit right under your own tree, give my team and me a call. There are so many way you can think of to enjoy fruit. Let us help you find where you can enjoy it too!
 
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!

best places to kiss

Get yourself in the mood the Valentines and throughout the year! This is LP with your “LP” (love-potion) of …The best places to kiss in the Santa Clarita Valley….


10. While sitting on a blanket in Central Park during the SCV Summer Concert Series

9. At the Top of the hay-bale pyramid in Fall at Lombardi Ranch

8. At the top of the Tower at Six Flags Magic Mountain

7. Under the “Oak of the Golden Dream” at Placerita Canyon Nature Center

6. On the center of the walking bridge between the Mall and the Hyatt on a Saturday Night (WalkingTrails)

5. Vasquez Rocks, the famous star trek battles

4. At the Patios, outside the Lazy Dog Café on the corner next to the Fire Pit

3. Anywhere, while the snow fell, during the SCV Blizzard of 2011

2.Under the fireworks outside the Macy’s parking lot, at the fire-break line section on July 4th

1. What is your number one place to kiss in the SCV? … Post it here on the Scene!


What does this have to do with Real Estate in Santa Clarita Valley?
For the love of Real Estate enjoy the world around you! Whether you want to…
Unwrap your favorite treat in the comfort of your very own home and are thinking of buying
Unwrap yourself from the debt you may be carrying, and need someone to answer your questions.
Unwrap these delicious stats below and share them with your honey, if you are thinking of selling

Call Leah Pollack with the HomeTeamForSCV, Today! … Are you feeling the love?

Leah Pollack is a REALTOR®, California Licensed Broker, and has earned NAR’s GREEN designation. DRE #01805569 My Team is knowledgeable in Real Estate marketing and transaction support for Traditional, REO and Short Sale considerations as well as Home Retention Options. Call today! Contact information for Leah 661-309-3195 or Click  HomeTeamForSCV

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/

California Passes Home Buyer Tax Credit AB183 *

**You MUST consult your CPA or Tax Advisor as conditions, restrictions, guidelines, etc. may apply**

AB 183 will provide $200 million for home buyer tax credits, allocating $100 million for qualified first-time home buyers of existing homes and $100 million for purchasers of new, or previously unoccupied, homes. The eligible taxpayer who purchases a qualified personal residence on and after May 1, 2010, and on or before Dec. 31, 2010, or who purchases a qualified principal residence on and after Dec. 31, 2010, and before Aug. 1, 2011, pursuant to an enforceable contract executed on or before Dec. 31, 2010, will be able to take the allowed tax credit. The credit is equal to the lesser of 5 percent of the purchase price or $10,000, in equal installments over three consecutive years. Under AB 183, purchasers will be required to live in the home for at least two years or forfeit the credit (i.e., repay it to the state).

The positive impact of the federal home buyer tax credit is clear. Nearly 40 percent of first-time home buyers said they would not have purchased a home if the federal tax credit for first-time home buyers was not offered, according to C.A.R. research conducted last year.The state’s previous home buyer tax credit program was so successful that it ran out of tax credits by the end of June 2009, eight months before it was set to expire and just as housing markets appeared to be turning a corner.

Unlike last year’s legislation, AB 183 adds a tax credit for the purchase of an existing home by a first-time home buyer.AB 183 will significantly contribute to the effort to stimulate jobs-creation within California’s housing market by helping to incentivize first-time home buyers to purchase homes that have been abandoned, foreclosed upon and returned to the lender, or have been sitting on the market for extended periods of time. It is these homes that will require substantial rehabilitation by the new owners, which will in turn generate a tremendous increase in jobs and accessory purchases connected to home improvement activities.

“Information provided by California Association of Realtors”

**********************************************

Please contact me:

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


• If you are looking to buy, sell 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 am knowledgeable in Traditional and Short Sale Real Estate Transactions.

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

*NOTE: As always, consult with your CPA when considering this and when purchasing real estate.