Five Stages of Grieving Sellers

The real estate market as a whole is still in its first stage of grieving—denial. Grieving Most are aware of the five stages of grieving; denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Denial set in as sellers refused to comprehend that the market that they so came to enjoy—a seller’s market—vanished. Some are coming to grips with their anger knowing they should have sold a year earlier, and only a minority of sellers are to the point of bargaining (as depressed as they are about it) with buyers and accepting lower prices for their homes. These are the homes buyers should be seeking out.

Why aren’t more sellers to the point of acceptance?

It’s simple human nature to not acknowledge you timed a market wrong. Each real estate market cycle is different. In an attempt to predict the market’s outcome we rely on past experience and historical records. But understanding the similarities is as important as examining the differences. One has to look to 1990 to find home sales as low as today. Are these two cycles similar? Let’s examine the differences.

In 1990 the recession and the subsequent exodus of Bay Area jobs impacted home values as many sellers were forced to relocate when companies began downsizing. This sharp increase in inventory of available homes coupled with a recession, fewer jobs and decreasing consumer confidence led to a decline in the median home price.

Today’s Bay Area sellers are not in the dire position many homeowners found themselves in the 1990’s. Jobs are plentiful, and sellers would rather wait out the market than sell at a discount.

Then why are homes sales down in the Bay Area?

The perception that home values will soon drop in step with the many other regions has no doubt contributed to the reluctance of buyers committing to purchasing their first home.

But why hasn’t the Bay Area experienced similar price declines that other regions?

There are several reasons that homes values are declining statewide. The main reason being the large number of homes which were financed with sub-prime loans now for sale and the sudden run-up in appreciation levels. This large inventory of first-time buyer homes which are available either through foreclosure or voluntary liquidation, coupled with more stringent lending practices has decreased demand and increased the supply. The sub-prime loan debacle certainly accounts for the majority of the decline in homes sales—statewide. But what about the Bay Area? Unlike many other parts of the state the sub-prime defaults have not impacted our area to the same degree as say the Central Valley. Primarily this is because most Bay Area homes were not purchased using sub-prime loans.

The Bay Area has historically fared better than many other regions due to the Median_valueslarge demand for the quality of life it has to offer. It has also seen historically higher cost for housing. Further defining the market, the Peninsula specifically enjoys an attractive quality of life with low crime, excellent schools, shorter commutes to high paying jobs, mild weather and access to the ocean, beaches and three international airports. One need look no further than the commute traffic leading to the east bay and clogging the bridges to understand why people would rather live on the peninsula. It stands to reason that if Peninsula home values were to decline, values would decline in other regions first—prices quickly being filled buoying Peninsula home values.

What can the Peninsula housing market expect?

If history is any indicator, the Peninsula will ride out the current market adjustments with less impact than other regions. The chart below suggest that although there are certainly small peaks and valleys in the median price of homes, the overall increase in the Bay Area is significant and more isolated from volatile market fluctuations as compared to the state or country as a whole.

Interest rates remain extremely favorable, jobs are on the increase, and though we expect appreciation levels to drop since the first-time home buyer affordability index is so low, we expect to see a relatively flat market through the first quarter of 2008. It appears to be only a matter of time before home values rebound.

Let’s look back.

In 1996 the Bay Area housing market began a steady climb after years of remaining flat. The market decline began in 1990 which coincided with the aforementioned recession, but remained flat well after the recession was over in 1991. From 1993 to 1996 there was no logical reason why buyers should not purchase a home. What kept buyers at bay was the fear of having just seen home values drop off their precipice is 1989. Eventually though, smart buyers gradually returned to the housing market and those who purchased a home when the market was flat, were in an excellent position when the market began its historic climb in 1996.

It’s interesting to note that in after five consecutive years of waning appreciation levels the lowest level was reached in 1995—only $6,000 off of the high in 1989.

Median_ca_values

So when should a first time buyer get into the market? When they can afford to. When they feel their job situation is secure. Smart buyers don’t follow the herds—they seek opportunities. Playing a game of timing the absolute bottom of any market is pure guess work. When the media reports that home values are on their way up, buyers have already missed an opportunity.

Want to discuss this? Reply, email or call us and we’d be glad to consult with interested buyers or sellers.

Belmont Chamber Events 10/29/2007
Belmont Chamber of Commerce
October 29, 2007

Below are the upcoming events of Belmont Chamber and City that are happening this week.  If you have items that you would like to include please let us know. 

Sundays @8:30AM – 1:00PM ~ Farmers Market – Booth space available.

NOW YEAR ROUND!!!
If you would like to promote your company – come and share the Chambers booth.  This is a free service to members of Belmont Chamber.  Call the office at 650-595-8696 or Email us at execdirector@belmontchamber.org with dates and times that you would like to reserve part of the booth.  This is a GREAT way to reach the community.

Monday-Saturday @ 10AM and Sunday 1PM ~ Friends’ Book Store

Location: Belmont Library, 1110 Alameda de las Pulgas

Proceeds benefit the Belmont Library.  Information: 650-593-5650

Monday, October 1st – Monday, November 5th ~ Dolly’s Hal-O-Ween pet photo contest
Location:  Dolly’s Treasures
Enter up to 2, 5×7 or smaller, photos of your pet (costumes optional).  You may bring your photo(s) to Dolly’s Treasures in the Carlmont Village Shopping Center, Belmont. or e-mail to dollydawg@sbcglobal.net  The photos will be posted at our store and customers will be able to vote for their favorites– Nov 6th through Nov 17th.  The photos receiving the most votes will be eligible to win one of 3 pet gift baskets from dolly’s Treasures. Value up to $50.00.

September 10th – November 3rd @ 2:00 PM & 3:00PM ~ National Weight Loss Contest
Location:  Healthy Inspirations – 390 El Camino Real #H
ealthy Inspirations is having a National Weight Loss Contest called, "Get Inspired to lose it". The contest starts September 10th & ends November 3rd, just in time for the holidays. It is an 8 week fun program open to all women, including Teens. Everyone participating will receive a T-shirt & pedometer. There will be big cash awards!!  So hurry into Healthy Inspirations to register for the contest. Located at 390 El Camino Real, #H, Belmont. Call 650-595-5239 for additional information.

Monday, October 29th @ 12PM~ Rotary Meeting
Location:  The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"
The Belmont Rotary meets every Monday at The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"!

Tuesday, October 30th @ 8:00AM ~ Lions Meeting
Location:  IHOP on El Camino Real in Belmont

The newly constituted Belmont Lions Club meets on the First and Third Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. at the Belmont IHOP.  New members are most welcome. 

Wednesday, October 31st, 2007 ~ CSM Fall Health Fair
Location: CSM Building 5
Free and open to public
Contact: 650.574.6396
This event will features more than 30 health services-related booths (for example, blood pressure screening, blood sugar testing, massage, podiatry, yoga & fitness, acupressure and pandemic flu preparedness). A blood drive will also be held. Flu shots will be administered. Other highlights include free food and prizes.

Saturday, November 3rd @ 7:30 PM ~ Concerto Competition

Location: Taube Conference Center

Student performers compete for solo performances with the Redwood Symphony’s 2008 season.  Awards in Vocal and Instrumental categories.

Admission $5 general

Monday, November 5th @ 12PM~ Rotary Meeting

Location:  The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"

The Belmont Rotary meets every Monday at The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"!


Tuesday, November 6th, 2007 ~ General Municipal Election

Location:  City of Belmont

The City of Belmont will hold a General Municipal Election on November 6th.  More details to follow.

Tuesday, November 6th @ 8:00AM ~ Lions Meeting

Location:  IHOP on El Camino Real in Belmont

The newly constituted Belmont Lions Club meets on the First and Third Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. at the Belmont IHOP.  New members are most welcome. 

Wednesday, November 6th @ 7:00PM ~ Park & Recreation Commission Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

Meetings are held in City Hall Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane in Belmont; on the first Wednesday of each month at 7PM

Tuesday, November 6th @ 7:00PM ~ Planning Commission Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

The City of Belmont Planning Commission meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Belmont Council Chambers One Twin Pines Lane, Belmont, CA.  Planning Commission meetings broadcast live on Channel 27 – Also available on the Internet at: http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/belmont_webcast/index.html


Wednsday, November 7th @ 6PM ~ Flight of imagination
Location: Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway Road, San Carlos
Family Connections with the support of Linden Tree Bookstore and Hiller Aviation Museum invites you to celebrate children’s literature at our ninth annual fundraiser.  Come and enjoy complimentary refreshments, book sales, book signing and a raffle for fabulous prizes.  Tickets: $20 in advance and $25 at the door.  This event is not recommended for children.

Saturday, November 10th, and Sunday, Nov. 11th @ Library Hours ~ Second Annual Fobl Book Store Sale
Location:  Belmont Library, Taube Room
Many books at 50%, some at 20%, with Special books at 20% off for Friends’ members.

Saturday, November 10 @ 12-5 PM and Sunday, November 11th  @ 1-5PM ~ Second Annual Friends’ Store Sale
Location: Belmont Library, 1110 Alameda de las Pulgas
20-50% off great books.  Sponsored by Friends of the Belmont Library.  Information: 650-593-5650

Sunday, November 11th @ 1-4PM ~ Content, Curated by Arabella Decker
Location: Peninsula Museum of Art, in Twin Pines Park
Peninsula museum of Art presents Content, curated by Araella Decker

Sunday, November 11th @ 3PM ~ The Three Sopranos
Location: Ralston Hall Mansion Ballroom
An ireverent approach to operas greatest hits and musical theater classics: presented by Marcelle Dronkers, "Cackle-atura Soprano," Aurora Bardes, "Drama Queen," Debra Lambert, "Messy-Soprano."

Admission $20/$10 Seniors and Students

Monday, November 12th @ 12PM~ Rotary Meeting
Location:  The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"
The Belmont Rotary meets every Monday at The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"!

Tuesday, November 13th @ 7PM ~ American Association of University of Women

Location: Belmont Library, 1110 Alameda de las Pulgas

A member of the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office will speak on "Women in Custody-A Growing Population."  Information: 650-593-1950

Tuesday, November 13th @ 7:30PM ~ City Council Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, One Twin Pines Lane in Belmont. Council meetings are broadcast live on Cable Channel 27 in Belmont.  If you would like to contact the City Council collectively, please use the following link:  CityCouncil@belmont.gov – Please be advised: Our Mail Server does not accept files over 2 megabytes. Planning Commission meetings broadcast live on Channel 27 – Also available on the Internet at: http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/belmont_webcast/index.html

Friday, November 16th @ 8 am ~ CSM Jazz fest (All Day)
Location: CSM Theatre
Contact: 650.574.6163
More details are forthcoming.

Friday November 16th @ 4 – 7PM and Saturday November 17th @ 12-4PM ~ Ralston Florist Open House

Location: Ralston Florist, 936 Ralston Avenue

Welcome the holiday season in with Ralston Florist’s Open House.  Shop for gifts and home décor while sipping cider.  Watch our talented designers demonstrate ways with flowers and gifts.  Demonstrations at 4, 5 & 6 o’clock on Saturday.  Door prizes, discounts and specials both days.  R.S.V.P 650-592-6313

Saturday, November 17th and Sunday, November 18th @ 10AM to 4PM ~ Book Nook Holiday Sale

Location: Book Nook, #7 Twin Pines Lane, Belmont

During the Holiday Crafts Fair.  Sponsored by Friends of the Belmont Library.  Information: 650-593-5650

Saturday, November 17th & 18th @ 10-4 PM~ Book Nook Holiday Sale
Location: Book Nook
Open during the Holiday Craft Fair
at Twin Pines Park.

Saturday, November 17th, 8 to 11 pm ~ Jazz Under the Stars at CSM
Location: CSM Building 36, Fourth Floor Observatory
Free and open to public
Contact: 650.378.7241 or collegeofsanmateo.edu/astronomy
This is a monthly star party near the first quarter moon and is held weather permitting. Through telescopes, see lunar mountains & craters, Jupiter, galaxies and more–all while listening to the sound of KCSM Jazz 91.1 FM. Free parking in lots 7 & 8 (collegeofsanmateo.edu/map). This event is co-sponsored by CSM and the San Mateo County Astronomical Society.

Saturday & Sunday, November 17 & 18, 2007 @ 10AM until 4PM ~ Holiday Craft Faire

Location:  Twin Pines Senior & Community Center

Come and get ready for the Holidays; buy items to give and decorate your home.  For more information call 650-595-7444

Sunday, November 18, 2007 @ 1PM – 4 PM ~ Home for the Holidays

Location: Ralston Hall Mansion, Notre Dame de Namur University, 1500 Ralston Ave.

Join us for a festive afternoon including a light luncheon and deserts, spirits of the season, boutique marketplace, informal modeling of special occasion fashions, designer holiday decorations and lively entertainment.  Adults $30 before November 9th and $40 after November 9th.  Ages 11-17  $20.  Please call 650-508-3501 for tickets.  Information 650-508-3645.

Monday, November 19th @ 12PM~ Rotary Meeting
Location:  The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"
The Belmont Rotary meets every Monday at The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"!

Tuesday, November 20th @ 7:00PM ~ Planning Commission Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

The City of Belmont Planning Commission meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Belmont Council Chambers One Twin Pines Lane, Belmont, CA.  Planning Commission meetings broadcast live on Channel 27 – Also available on the Internet at: http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/belmont_webcast/index.html


Tuesday, November 20th @ 8:00AM ~ Lions Meeting
Location:  IHOP on El Camino Real in Belmont

The newly constituted Belmont Lions Club meets on the First and Third Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. at the Belmont IHOP.  New members are most welcome. 

Thursday, Novenber 22nd @ 6:30PM ~ Water District Board Meeting
Location:  3 Dairy Lane
The Mid-Peninsula Water District Board of Directors holds their regular monthly meetings on the 4th Thursday of every month.  Meetings are held at the District office located at 3 Dairy Lane, Belmont.  Meetings start at 6:30pm and the public is invited at attend.  Change of meeting dates due to the holidays:  November’s meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 and December’s meeting will be held on Thursday, December 13, 2007.

Monday, November 26th @ 12PM ~ Rotary Meeting
Location:  The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"
The Belmont Rotary meets every Monday at The Van’s Restaurant "on the hill"! 

Monday, November 26th, 2007 in the evening ~ Light of Belmont Christmas tree

Location:  Carlmont Shopping Center

The Christmas tree at the Carlmont Village Shopping Center will have its annual lighting of Belmont’s Christmas tree.  More details to follow – mark your calendar.

Tuesday, November 27th  @ 7:30PM ~ City Council Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, One Twin Pines Lane in Belmont. Council meetings are broadcast live on Cable Channel 27 in Belmont.  If you would like to contact the City Council collectively, please use the following link:  CityCouncil@belmont.gov – Please be advised: Our Mail Server does not accept files over 2 megabytes. Planning Commission meetings broadcast live on Channel 27 – Also available on the Internet at: http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/belmont_webcast/index.html

Friday, November 30th, 2007 @ 6PM-11:30PM ~ The 10th Holiday Gala "All that Glitters"

Location:  Oracle Conference Center

Annual Fundraising Gala – This event is to raise money for the Arts & Education Foundation to let the community have a grant source for arts and education.  An evening of entertainment, raffle items, dance and CHEER!!!

Saturday, December 1st @ 8:00PM & Sunday, December 2nd @ 3:00PM ~ Viva la Musica
Location: St. Mark’s Church, 325 Marine View, Belmont (off Hiller Avenue)
Viva la Musica, a Belmont-based 60-voice community chorus under the direction of Shulamit offman
Program: Handel’s Messiah (highlights), and holiday music written by composer friends of Viva
Tickets can be purchased by calling (650) 281-9663 or via the website at www.vivalamusica.org
Don’t wait to get tickets as these concerts often sell out! Come and hear one of the premier choral groups on the Peninsula in their new home!

Tuesday, December 4th @ 7:00PM ~ Planning Commission Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

The City of Belmont Planning Commission meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Belmont Council Chambers One Twin Pines Lane, Belmont, CA.  Planning Commission meetings broadcast live on Channel 27 – Also available on the Internet at: http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/belmont_webcast/index.html


Wednesday, December 5th 2007 @ 6:30 PM ~ Tree Lighting Ceremony

Location:  Civic Center, 1 Twin Pines Lane

Viva la Musica will be caroling.   Viva la Musica, a Belmont-based 60-voice community chorus under the direction of Shulamit Hoffman.

Friday, December 7th, 2007 and Saturday and December 8th, 2007 @ 7:30 PM ~ Christmas Double Bill

Location: Cunningham Memorial Chapel

Amahil and the Night Visitors

Menotti’s famous Christmas opera, conducted by Henry Mollicone, directed by Greg Fritsch, performed by the NDNU/Pocket Opera Studio.

NDNU Concert Choir

The new choir makes its debut, performing music of the season, under the direction of Michael Najar.

Admission $20/$10 Seniors and Students


Saturday, December 8th, 2007 @10AM until Noon ~ Breakfast with Santa

Location:  Twin Pines Senior & Community Center

Come and have Breakfast with Santa Claus.  For more information call 650-595-7444

Saturday, December 8th @ 1PM – 4PM ~ Santa Paws
Location: Dolly’s Treasures, in the Carlmont Village Shopping Center
Bring your pet for a photo opportunity with Santa.  This event is to benefit
animal rescue organizations in the Bay Area.  Donations of $20 or more will receive 2 4×6"
prints of your pet (and or you) with Santa, plus a CD of all the original pictures taken of your pet during the photo shoot.

Saturday, December 8th @ 11:00 AM – 3:00PM ~ Blood Drive
Location:  Bloodmobile in parking lot of Carlmont Village Shopping Center – Corner of Alameda de las Pulgas and Ralston
Carlmont Village Shopping Center and Belmont Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring this annual Blood Drive.  You can sign up on line at www.bloodheroes.com – Sponsor code: carlmont.  If you have questions contact Esther at 650-652-4124.  Walk-ups are welcome!

Tuesday, December 11th @ 7:30PM ~ Broadway Studio Showcase

Location: NDNU Theater

Directed by Marc Jackobs

Music Direction by William Liberatore

Choreography by Dottie Lester White

Songs, scenes and dances performed by the Fall 2007 Musical Theater Workshop

Admission $5


Tuesday, December 11th @ 7:30PM ~ City Council Meeting

Location:  City Council Chambers – One Twin Pines Lane

City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, One Twin Pines Lane in Belmont. Council meetings are broadcast live on Cable Channel 27 in Belmont.  If you would like to contact the City Council collectively, please use the following link:  CityCouncil@belmont.gov – Please be advised: Our Mail Server does not accept files over 2 megabytes. Planning Commission meetings broadcast live on Channel 27 – Also available on the Internet at: http://www.communitymediacenter.net/watch/belmont_webcast/index.html

Thursday, December 13th  @ 6:30PM ~ Water District Board Meeting
Location:  3 Dairy Lane
The Mid-Peninsula Water District Board of Directors holds their regular monthly meetings on the 4th Thursday of every month.  Meetings are held at the District office located at 3 Dairy Lane, Belmont.  Meetings start at 6:30pm and the public is invited at attend. 

Park and Recreation now has online registration; http://activenet4.active.com/belmontparksandrecreation/.  If you have an Activity, Camp, Class or Swimming that you would like to sign up for, just click on the http above.  You can sign-up 24/7. 

 

 

This email was sent to cmorgan@morganhomes.com, by execdirector@belmontchamber.org

Belmont Chamber of Commerce | 1059A Alameda de Las Pulgas | Belmont | CA | 94002

High Noon-October 26th 1881

Well almost, actually it was 1:52 pm.

Today marks the 126th anniversary of the famous “Gunfight at the OK Corral” in Tombstone Arizona—then called the Arizona Territory.

Wyatt20earp20ii_3

Here are some quick trivia facts about Wyatt Earp and the shootout at the OK Corral:

Wyatt Earp was first and foremost a simple business man who lived to be 81 and died in Los Angels in 1929. (I happen to own a copy of his death certificate.)

Wyatt Earp was never a U.S. Marshall

The “Shoot-out at the OK Corral” was started by an argument over some stolen mules?

Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday stood trial for their part in the shooting which lasted a month—they were both acquitted.

Wyatt Earp’s favorite city was San Francisco until he stood accused of throwing a prize fight in which he was asked to referee—it made all the papers.

  • Wyatt Earp owned a mine outside L.A. near what is now Earp, CA. which he worked the rest of his life in the dessert
  • Wyatt Earp loved ice cream, drove a car, and helped consult on some of the earliest films about the Wild West in the 1920’s and became friends with actors like Tom Mix
  • The debate about who were good and bad guys in the famous shootout confrontation continues to this day.
  • Wyatt Earp was deputized by his brother Vrigil Earp so that he could legally carry a gun on the streets of Tombstone that day.
  • The Clantons practiced religioulsy with their six-shotters at their ranch yet as with most peopple of the day, couldn’t hit much when under pressure.

Wyatt Earp was cremated and buried in the Jewish cemetery in Colma California named Hills of Eternity—I took the contemporary photo which circulates on the web to this day. Many movies have been made about this shoot-out (near the OK Corral) and glorified it in a way that only Hollywood could do. Unfortunately, the facts have become so distorted that the real story has become lost. As in many cases, the truth is more interesting than fiction. In 1993 the movie Tombstone with Kurt Russell as Wyatt was released and it helped shed some light on who Wyatt Earp really was—a business man, not gunfighter. Later Kevin Costner’s Wyatt Earp was also released further gaining interest in Wyatt’s story. Which movie is best? I believe Tombstone was more realistic. Although they used composite characters and rearranged event timelines as Hollywood will do, their costumes and many of the lines in the movie were from court transcripts and newspaper accounts after the shooting. The 1990’s movies on Wyatt Earp inspired me to find out more about what really happened.

Those movies led me to read “And Die in the West” by Paula Mitchell Marks. It chronicles the political behind the scenes details of what led upon to the famous gunfight in Tombstone. But it goes much deeper than that and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to understand more about life in the frontier west. From there I read every book I could get my hands on including a grossly exaggerated version of Wyatt’s life titled “Wyatt Earp, Frontier Marshall” written by Stuart Lake and released shortly after Wyatt’s death. I eventually traveled to Tombstone and met with several prominent authors who toured me around the back country retracing the steps of the Earp and Clanton clans. To find out more visit Gary McLelland’s Wyatt Earp web page and relive the Wild West as it really was.

Hunter’s Moon–October 26th 2007 The biggest of them all…

Today marks the occasion of the “Hunter’s Moon”. A full moon which occurs each October but this year is special. Huntersmoon Tonight’s full Moon is the biggest full Moon of 2007. It’s no illusion.  The Moon’s orbit is an ellipse with one side 30,000 miles closer to Earth than the other. The full Moon of Oct. 25-26 is located on the near side, making it appear as much as 14% bigger and 30% brighter than lesser full Moons we’ve seen earlier in 2007.

This can be found on NASA’s web site, “According to folklore, October’s full moon is called the "Hunter’s Moon" or sometimes the "Blood Moon." It gets its name from hunters who tracked and killed their prey by autumn moonlight, stockpiling food for the winter ahead. You can picture them: silent figures padding through the forest, the moon overhead, pale as a corpse, its cold light betraying the creatures of the wood.

So how many moons do we really have? Twelve to be exact:

  • January – Wolf Moon 
  • February – Snow Moon 
  • March – Worm Moon 
  • April – Pink Moon 
  • May – Flower Moon 
  • June – Strawberry Moon 
  • July – Buck Moon 
  • August – Sturgeon Moon 
  • September – Harvest Moon 
  • October – Hunter’s Moon 
  • November – Beaver Moon 
  • December – Cold Moon

Ever wonder why the moon appears so large at the horizon and so small up in the sky? This phenomenon referred to the “Moon Illusion” is best explained by scientists but it has everything to do with your brain’s perception of relative size as it compares the moon to objects on the horizon. Try taking a picture of the same moon and you’ll be sorely disappointed that your camera doesn’t see things quite the way you do.

Enjoy the show tonight and as the moon rises near sunset and appears to fill the sky.

Tree-mendous Power Struggle

Wyatt I have brought the idea of a proposed tree ordinance to the attention of several of the influential people I know in Belmont, some who hold sitting positions. They do not appear inclined to take-up the idea since I believe they tend to shy away from anything which is a political hot potato (unless it’s on their personal agenda). Though I give credit to Bill Dickenson for occasionally challenging his fellow council members, most of the members of our current council (and Planning Department) seem to believe that anything progressive is a threat; as opposed to the other extreme which believe that development should march forward unchecked. The problem with both of these positions is that they are extreme, and we need more fair minded, balanced, and objective people to help make Belmont a great town, prosperous, and with a sustainable and alluring quality of life. Don’t get me wrong, I too love our open spaces and trees but there needs to be a balance struck when considering growth and changes. Until our Belmont City Council becomes more like real council–for the people–and less concerned with their own agendas, I fear nothing will change.

One need look no further than the example of the council’s decision to ban smoking in Belmont to see that these folks are thrusting upon us their personal agenda (see “Where there’s Smoke There’s Fire”).

I bring this point up because it’s just one more an example of what needs to change in Belmont. We need a council who will do what is right for the citizens of Belmont, not what is right for their personal vision of a town they want to create.

The current list of candidates includes two candidates who are strongly supported by the current council members Coralin Feierbach and Dave Warden–two like-minded members who would love nothing more than to eliminate any challenges to their control of the current council; Christine Wozniak, who currently sits on the oppressive planning department and David Braunstein, a teacher from Carlmont High School, who’s legacy is organizing the creation of the Belmont library.

The other opposing two Candidates Jason Born and Broderick Page are challenging the status quo and who the majority of the council desperately want not to win. It is my belief with the shenanigans of Dave Warden trying to decide if he should attempt a write-in campaign, and Dave Braunstein getting back into the race, has everything to do with Dave Warden wanting to leave the council yet clone himself before he does so by convincing David Braunstein to come back to the fray after dropping out. As found in this article by the San Mateo Daily News; “Mr. Warden said at the time, ” [He] was comfortable leaving the council because he endorsed two of the challengers running to take his place”; saying, “Mr. Warden believed newcomers Born and Page lacked experience.”

Ask him how much experience he had when he got elected.

Want to make a change? Make a change in the council. I’m passing this along to Jason Born and Bill Dickenson since if there’s anyone who would even consider this I believe it to be them. Now all the citizens of Belmont have to do is vote.

Disclaimer:

Drew & Christine Morgan are REALTORS/NOTARY PUBLIC in Belmont, CA. with more than 20 years experience in helping sellers and buyers in their community. They may be reached at (650) 508.1441 or emailed at info@morganhomes.com.

You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Morganhomes and also find them on Twitter @ https://twitter.com/morganhomes

The information contained in this article is educational and intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute real estate, tax or legal advice, nor does it substitute for advice specific to your situation. Always consult an appropriate professional familiar with your scenario.

Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire–Belmont’s Smoking Ban

Shermans The smoking ordinance in Belmont was a classic example of what Belmont’s city council is all about. Sure second hand smoke is bad but the issue brought before them was second hand smoke in attached adjacent living spaces–the genesis of the original complaint. However our council (coached by their cronies in other departments with similar agendas—can anyone say Planning Department?) decided to pursue a ban on all outdoor cigarette smoking in Belmont—notice I didn’t say all smoking?

Be clear, this was a personal agenda. Mayor Coralin’s trama had to do with being exposed to second hand smoke from her father and Council Member Dave Warden wanted Belmont to be a "smoke free city". Mr. Warden apparently anointed himself with deciding how one should personally care for themselves stating, "…This ordinance may save lives as it may force smokers to quit or limit smoking".

What they neglected to address was wood burning fireplaces and outdoor BBQ’s–no doubt much worse contributors of air borne carcinogens. Mr. Warden’s argument for not banning other more caustic causes of airborne particulate matter such as that expelled by SUV’s was answered with—"[but] we need cars". So what’s his answer to this one—banning outdoor BBQ’s will stop people from eating unhealthy carcinogen laden foods AND stop the air borne particulate matter they cause. Why wasn’t that a part of the ordinance?

Did anyone notice the volumes of billowing smoke at the Save The Music benefit in Belmont wafting by the children

Dsc_4474save_the_music_3

as they sang on stage? The city doesn’t need to bring in experts to intuitively know that the smoke produced that day alone no doubt exposed more people to more carcinogens than any outdoor citizen puffing away on a cigarette. This council is clearly about tolerance (or lack thereof) and what they personally believe should be acceptable.

Dsc_4475save_the_music_2

Why did they ignore addressing these two issues if their real concern was for the health, welfare and safety of their constituents? Because they only wanted to trample on a minority who they knew would not garner any support; they knew that adding a ban on outdoor BBQ’s and wood burning fireplaces would raise too much opposition—they simply stuck with an ordinance which would get them maximum media attention with minimal resistance.

What’s Eating Your Home’s Equity?

What’s Eating Your Home’s Equity?

This time of year after a heavy rain-followed by a sunny day-we see these long-winged creatures flittering about. If you aren’t familiar with a damp-wood termite, you might think it’s just another fly-by-night pest. But in fact these little buggers are responsible for BILLIONS of dollars in damage to property each year.

Termite_450 These are a few of the unlucky damp wood termites who were caught by a little spider friend of mine at sundown. Damp-Wood termites typically venture out toward artificial light in the early evening hours. CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO SEE A CLOSE-UP.

The process of termite "swarming" is in an effort to establish a new colony. Frequently, they will do so after a heavy rain followed by a sunny day. In the Bay Area peninsula where we live this is not relegated to any one time of the year as in other parts of the country. Our Indian summers make both the typical spring swarm as well as a fall swarm likely. What do you do if you also hate spiders too? Why call an exterminator of course.

The sign of a swam does not mean your home has termites. These critters will often fly from a neighbor’s yard, dead brush or tree. After they land, they will drop their wings and look for a place to nest. Once a male and female mate and a colony is established, they look nothing like their flying alter ego. They are a translucent-almost albino color-as compared to their flight suit of black, yellow or orange. Finding termites in or near a structure does not mean you have an immediate emergency since the rate at which damage occurs is relatively slow.

There are three common types of termites: Dry Wood, Damp-Wood and Subterranean. Subterranean termites follow much of the same swarming pattern as their larger cousins the Damp-Wood termite, though they are much smaller and more readily confused with ants. They too will drop their wings but fly much shorter distances in more of a glider style flight and are often simply carried with whichever way the wind is blowing.

If you’ve ever seen your car covered with little black wings you are more than likely seeing the result of a subterranean swarm-good thing they no longer makes cars of wood. Subterranean termites live in the ground, as opposed to damp-wood termites which typically live outdoors in dead trees, fences and wood retaining walls; while dry wood termites prefer to live in your walls, floor, ceilings and attic. In order to reach edible wood in your home, subterranean wood termites will build what is referred to as a "mud tube"

Subs

from the ground up until they reach their food supply-often, your home. Mud tubes are an easy indicator you may have subterranean termites eating away at your home’s equity. We’ve seen colonies of subterranean termites in the ground under trees where an ample supply of dead foliage keeps them well fed.

The most immediate home remedy and effective treatment for these cellulous devouring bugs is good old fashioned Windex. Windex_4 If you see a swarm landing near your home, this quick clean-up solution does the trick. Of course Windex is no long term solution to use. If you see any indication of termite activity, often noted by what appears to be "sand" (mixture of soil, feces, and saliva) on your floors, windowsills, walls of near vents, it’s a good idea to get a professional home exterminator to come out and treat your home with more effective chemicals.

Belmont Sales Activity-September 2007

In an effort to cut down on paper generated by our industry, as well as lower our overhead to continue to offer price matching of our services, and hopefully someday reach more customers, we have discontinued the mailing of our monthly sales updates for Belmont, and are posting the information on-line. This will enable us to provide more information than before and we hope this move towards virtual based services will positively impact our environment while allowing more people to contact us.

Please feel free to comment about the new forum we have implemented.

Click on the picture to see the full-size report on Belmont Sales.

Belmont_sales_september_2007_4

Carlmont Wins Another Distinguished School Award

School_3

The schools in Belmont continue to receive accolades as Carlmont High School wins another distinguished school award as reported by the district.

The district went on to say, "Carlmont, Menlo-Atherton, and Sequoia are three out of the 95 high schools designated Distinguished Schools in the State of California.  Schools were eligible to apply for the award based on curriculum, instructional program, and support for students and school climate.  The schools will maintain their title of Distinguished School until 2011."

That’s great news for Belmont, though it is increasingly difficult to get an intra-district transfer from another school to attend Carlmont; that spells challenges for the parents in parts of San Carlos who wish to send their children to Carlmont and are finding it impossible to do so now that the school is at capacity.

If you want to finds out if a home in San Carlos currently goes to Carlmont High School (boundaries can always change), log-on to their site and enter the San Carlos address you wish to search.

Drew & Christine Morgan Morganhomes.com

Visit our Real Estate Blog at ActiveRain.com

Disclaimer: This information is for entertainment purposes only and includes no legal, accounting or real estate advice nor is this response in tended to be specific to your situation-consult a specialist for your specific situation.

Full Service vs. Limited Service Models

Full Service vs. Limited Service or Virtual Agents—Is There Room for Everyone?

The short answer is of course yes. Different sellers have different needs and abilities and some may choose a full service model and others limited or no service at all-the choices have been there all along. Yet the arrival of virtual Internet brokers has spawned a new ideology of it’s either "us or them".

House_keys_2 The very survival of limited service or virtual Internet brokers relies on two things: The first is they are able to convince everyone that paying a 6% compensation is the only alternative to their "discount" model, and the second is that they must convince their prospects that the minimum service they provide is all that is needed to sell a home; and everything else which a full service agent does is a waste of time and their money.

These assertions that they need you to believe are false. Frankly; it’s a bit surprising that the Department of Justice has not sought sanctions against this type of misinformation when the average real estate commission across the country is closer to 5.1%. One of the most misleading impressions that limited or virtual companies imply is that full service agents and discount agents are mutually exclusive-they aren’t.

The second scenario is one which needs more discussion. The premise that a limited service or on-line virtual broker can sell your home is not as questionable as the issue of for how much? Any homeowner wishing to "sell" their home could market it considerably below market value and so long as they were able to communicate to the public that their home was for sale, they would most certainly be able to sell it. How much money they may leave on the bargaining table and the repercussions during and after the close of escrow may linger long after the check has cashed.

Hiring a real estate agent is akin to a homeowner deciding how to do a remodel. As a homeowner you have the right to be your own general contractor; what you have to ask yourself is a) do you want to take that on (do you have the time and ability) and b) are you qualified-as in knowledgeable. You also have the right to hire the cheapest general contractor you can find. But why complain about more expensive ones when cheaper ones are available. Hire who you want–there are options.

See Part Two–Examining the Real Estate Models

Drew & Christine Morgan Morganhomes.com

Disclaimer: This information is for entertainment purposes only and includes no legal, accounting or real estate advice nor is this response in tended to be specific to your situation-consult a specialist for your specific situation.