<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/">
	<channel>
		<title>Evergreen Realty</title>
		<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net</link>
		<description>Orange County Real Estate, Riverside County Real Estate, Los Angeles County Real Estate, San Bernardino County Real Estate, San Diego County Real Estate</description>
				<image>
			<url>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/icon.png</url>
			<title>Evergreen Realty</title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net</link>
		</image>
				<pubDate>Fri, 06 Apr 2012 14:21:00 -0700</pubDate>
		<generator>http://www.blazonco.com/</generator>
		<language>en</language>
				<item>
			<title>Beautiful Canyon Country Home! </title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-beautiful-canyon-country-home-</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-beautiful-canyon-country-home-#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 06 Apr 2012 14:21:00 -0700</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-beautiful-canyon-country-home-</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p>(www.26334macmillanranchroad.com)</p>
<p>View the YouTube home tour here:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDoHmCkEwrs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDoHmCkEwrs</a></p>
<p>Traditional Style on Two Acres in MacMillan Ranch, a gated community in Canyon Country, CA. Inside you'll find Austrian crystal chandeliers, hand painted ceiling murals, stained glass win...</p>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-beautiful-canyon-country-home-">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>(www.26334macmillanranchroad.com)</p>
<p>View the YouTube home tour here:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDoHmCkEwrs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDoHmCkEwrs</a></p>
<p>Traditional Style on Two Acres in MacMillan Ranch, a gated community in Canyon Country, CA. Inside you'll find Austrian crystal chandeliers, hand painted ceiling murals, stained glass windows, and fine wood work. Outside, an expansive back yard equipped with pool, spa, sport court, and children's play ground. The lush level garden by the side of the home has been the site of 33 weddings and wedding receptions, accommodating hundreds of guests at a time. A separate structure, roughly 500 square feet in size, is a professional recording studio. Standard sale. Shown by appointment only.</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Elegance in Mission Viejo! </title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-elegance-in-mission-viejo-</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-elegance-in-mission-viejo-#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:27:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[Mission Viejo]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-elegance-in-mission-viejo-</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<div>Price: $659,000</div>
<div>Location: 25191 Exmoor, Mission Viejo, CA</div>
<div><a href="http://www.25191exmoor.com/">http://www.25191exmoor.com/</a></div>
<div><a href="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/843313_orig.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image" src="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/843313_orig.jpg?w=487" alt="Image"></a></div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div><a href="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/1464726_orig.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image" src="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/1464726_orig.jpg?w=487" alt="Image"></a></div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>
<strong>This elegant home</strong>&nbsp;is located on a quiet single loaded cul-de-sac. Perfectly cared for and absolutely move-in ready, it offers an open floor plan with high ceilings, remodeled kitchen with granit...</div>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-elegance-in-mission-viejo-">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Price: $659,000</div>
<div>Location: 25191 Exmoor, Mission Viejo, CA</div>
<div><a href="http://www.25191exmoor.com/">http://www.25191exmoor.com/</a></div>
<div><a href="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/843313_orig.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image" src="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/843313_orig.jpg?w=487" alt="Image" /></a></div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div><a href="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/1464726_orig.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image" src="http://evergreenrealtyblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/1464726_orig.jpg?w=487" alt="Image" /></a></div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div><strong>This elegant home</strong>&nbsp;is located on a quiet single loaded cul-de-sac. Perfectly cared for and absolutely move-in ready, it offers an open floor plan with high ceilings, remodeled kitchen with granite counters, cherry wood cabinets, stainless appliances, and beautiful tile floor. The downstairs bedroom is ideal as a guest room or office. The home includes an upstairs bonus room, perfect as a craft/playroom or for reading. The upstairs master suite includes a walk in closet and walkout deck with a forever view of the city lights and sunsets. The beautiful backyard is well suited for your outdoor entertaining and enjoying that forever view.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>More info here:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.25191exmoor.com/">http://www.25191exmoor.com/</a></div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Summerstone Villas - NOW OPEN! </title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-summerstone-villas-now-open-</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-summerstone-villas-now-open-#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:45:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-summerstone-villas-now-open-</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><img src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/431268_281582861906998_100001658582934_732383_2093028532_n.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px;"><br></span></span></p>
<p>Grand Opening Saturday March 3rd, 2012 and interest lists are now forming. Please call or e-mail in order to placed on the interest list for first viewing privileges.</p>
<p>Summerstone Villas is a private gated community consisting of 12 beautifully appointed homes. Located in the heart of Orange Cou...</p>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-summerstone-villas-now-open-">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><img src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/431268_281582861906998_100001658582934_732383_2093028532_n.jpg" alt="" /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p>Grand Opening Saturday March 3rd, 2012 and interest lists are now forming. Please call or e-mail in order to placed on the interest list for first viewing privileges.</p>
<p>Summerstone Villas is a private gated community consisting of 12 beautifully appointed homes. Located in the heart of Orange County at 16040 Newhope Street in Fountain Valley. The homes will range from 1,458 sq ft to 1,582 sq ft with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, computer loft, 2-car attached garage and private yards. See the features link for a list of included upgrades.</p>
<p>With over 20 years of experience we are commited to engineering excellence as well as providing high-end designer selected finishes.</p>
<p>Learn about more features here: http://www.summerstonevillas.com/Features.html</p>
<p>Exclusive Realtor <br /> Jon Hess <br /> Broker<br /> DRE#01473164<br /> (949) 351-4380 <br />jon@jonhessrealty.com</p>
<p>For more information contact Summerstone's sales department online, by phone, or via text messaging. <br /> Call (949) 351-4380</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Carol Haacker Joins Evergreen Realty As Its Mission Viejo Manager </title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-carol-haacker-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-mission-viejo-manager</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-carol-haacker-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-mission-viejo-manager#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:21:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[Mission Viejo]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[New Agents]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-carol-haacker-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-mission-viejo-manager</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p><img style="float: left;" src="http://www.evergreenrealty.net/images/image002.jpg" alt="">Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc. and Tina Rector, Broker proudly welcomes Carol Haacker to the Evergreen Realty family as the new Manager for our Mission Viejo branch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;Carol brings over 38 years of experience to Evergreen Realty.&nbsp; Most recently Carol was the Manager for Century 21 Beachsi...</p>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-carol-haacker-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-mission-viejo-manager">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float: left;" src="http://www.evergreenrealty.net/images/image002.jpg" alt="" />Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc. and Tina Rector, Broker proudly welcomes Carol Haacker to the Evergreen Realty family as the new Manager for our Mission Viejo branch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;Carol brings over 38 years of experience to Evergreen Realty.&nbsp; Most recently Carol was the Manager for Century 21 Beachside where she was named &ldquo;Manager of the Year&rdquo; 6 times over the last 12 years.&nbsp; She has accomplished this working with over 165 agents in 2 offices over the last 15 years.&nbsp; Prior to Century 21, she has managed agents at Forest Olson/Coldwell Banker, Prudential and recruited for ReMax.</p>
<p>Carol&rsquo;s move to Evergreen Realty came with her knowledge that Real Estate is a changing industry.&nbsp; &ldquo;I made the move to Evergreen Realty, because I believe their business model is the future of Real Estate&rdquo; Carol states.&nbsp; &ldquo;I want to offer my agents the best of both worlds; the top technology and business tools along with the best compensation plan available.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Carol appreciates working with agents who want professional growth so they can meet the needs of others. She is looking for REALTORS&reg; with integrity, passion and motivation for the Real Estate business.&nbsp; She attributes the success of agents who have worked with her, to the fact that she is a non-competing Manager.&nbsp; &ldquo;Statistics show that 90% of new REALTORS&reg; fail in their first year of business because they lack guidance,&rdquo; Carol states.&nbsp; &ldquo;As a hands-on Manager, I am with my sales associates every day.&nbsp; I maintain an open door policy day or night.&nbsp;&nbsp; I am available to answer questions and offer the support that agents need to succeed.&rdquo; Carol is involved in the local REALTOR&reg;organization as a Presiding Officer for Professional Standards.</p>
<p>Carol is looking for agents to join her team and can be reached at 949-463-1200</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Welcome New Agents! </title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-welcome-new-agents-</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-welcome-new-agents-#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:10:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[New Agents]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-welcome-new-agents-</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc. is proud to welcome the following new agents into our team:</p>
<ul>
<li>Kathleen Monroe</li>
<li>Jenny Todd</li>
<li>Teagan Prukop</li>
<li>Jose Martinez</li>
<li>Lesley Kasner</li>
<li>Didi Aberson</li>
<li>Brian Squires</li>
<li>Cameron Davis</li>
<li>Noushin Brown</li>
<li>Lou Sanderson</li>
<li>Ryan Tisdale</li>
<li>Eddie Haskill</li>
<li>Denise Voss</li>
<li>Cari Adams</li>
<li>D...</li>
</ul>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-welcome-new-agents-">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc. is proud to welcome the following new agents into our team:</p>
<ul>
<li>Kathleen Monroe</li>
<li>Jenny Todd</li>
<li>Teagan Prukop</li>
<li>Jose Martinez</li>
<li>Lesley Kasner</li>
<li>Didi Aberson</li>
<li>Brian Squires</li>
<li>Cameron Davis</li>
<li>Noushin Brown</li>
<li>Lou Sanderson</li>
<li>Ryan Tisdale</li>
<li>Eddie Haskill</li>
<li>Denise Voss</li>
<li>Cari Adams</li>
<li>Dina Murad</li>
<li>Kristi Allen</li>
<li>James Haacker</li>
<li>Joe Rizk</li>
<li>Parvin Arefi</li>
<li>Barbara Holbein</li>
</ul>
<p>We're excited to work with these agents. We hope you enjoy doing business with them too!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Thomas Sutro Joins Evergreen Realty As Its Huntington Beach Manager</title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-thomas-sutro-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-huntington-beach-manager</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-thomas-sutro-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-huntington-beach-manager#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:45:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Company]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-thomas-sutro-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-huntington-beach-manager</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[
<p>Covering Los Angeles and Orange County, Tom brings over 30 years of real estate sales, leasing and mortgage banking experience to Evergreen Realty.&nbsp; Most recently Tom was a Risk Manger with Altera Real Estate, formerly RE/MAX Real Estate Services, working with its 400+ agents in 8 offices.<br>&nbsp;<br>&ldquo;I en...</p>
<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-thomas-sutro-joins-evergreen-realty-as-its-huntington-beach-manager">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Covering Los Angeles and Orange County, Tom brings over 30 years of real estate sales, leasing and mortgage banking experience to Evergreen Realty.&nbsp; Most recently Tom was a Risk Manger with Altera Real Estate, formerly RE/MAX Real Estate Services, working with its 400+ agents in 8 offices.<br />&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;I enjoyed my years listing, selling and leasing property but I enjoy giving back to REALTORS&reg; by assisting them and their clients with transaction questions. Buying or selling a home can be very stressful and if I can assist by removing that stress and making the process a little easier for everyone, then that is a win-win for me.&rdquo;<br />By being involved in local and state REALTOR&reg;organizations, Tom has been able to disseminate information not only to agents in his office and company, but the real estate community as well.&nbsp; His professional service to the real estate community include service as President of the Newport Beach Association of REALTORS&reg;, Director of the California Association of REALTORS&reg;,&nbsp; President of Southern California Multiple Listing Service, member of various Multiple Listing Service, Professional Standards and Local Government and Political Affairs committees. Most recently he was appointed President of the Newport Beach Multiple Listing Service and Director of the California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS).</p>
<p>His designations include: Graduate REALTORS&reg; Institute, Certified Real Estate Broker and e-PRO.&nbsp; Tom&rsquo;s contribution to his community includes serving on the Board of Directors of the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce, the Costa Mesa Community Foundation and is past President<br />of Youth Employment Service. <br />&nbsp;<br />Graduating from Linfield College, McMinnville, Oregon with a degree in Business Administration, Tom gives back to the college by serving on its Board of Trustees. He also serves on the college&rsquo;s Executive Committee, Financial Affairs/Facilities Committee and Real Estate Committee.<br />&nbsp;<br />Steve Jobs once told graduating seniors at a college commencement that they shouldn&rsquo;t just find a job; they should discover what they are passionate about and earn a living doing it. Tom&rsquo;s passion is real estate management and it shows in the working relationship he builds with agents and their clients.<br />&nbsp;<br />The Evergreen Realty office is located 18682 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach. Tom can be reached by telephone at 714 322-7400 or by e-mail at <a href="mailto:Tom@TomSutro.com">Tom@TomSutro.com</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates Named Top Workplace in Orange County</title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-named-top-workplace-in-orange-county</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-named-top-workplace-in-orange-county#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:32:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-named-top-workplace-in-orange-county</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[
<p>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc., one of the largest real estate brokerages in Orange County, was named as a Top Workplace by the Orange County Register. On December 1, members of Evergreen's management team attended the Top Workplace ceremony held at the City National Grove of Anaheim. Other Top...</p>
<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-named-top-workplace-in-orange-county">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc., one of the largest real estate brokerages in Orange County, was named as a Top Workplace by the Orange County Register. On December 1, members of Evergreen's management team attended the Top Workplace ceremony held at the City National Grove of Anaheim. Other Top Workplace companies such as Blizzard Entertainment and Trace 3 were also part of this event.</p>
<p>Evergreen was recognized as the <strong>number one</strong> Top Workplace for the second time. View the video except to see why.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ocregister.com/video/v/1303339651001/business-lenin-workplaces" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><span>http://www.ocregister.com/</span><span>video/v/1303339651001/</span>business-lenin-workplaces</a></p>
<p>The founder, Tina Rector, was awarded with the Large Company Leadership award for her strong values and humble leadership style. Below is an except from the Top Workplace article on Tina, written by Jan Norman:</p>
<p><em>"Tina Rector's leadership style might best be described as humble. Although she received the leadership award this year, she said her best move as leader was putting son Randy in charge of the growing real estate company. (He has won the Register Top Workplaces leadership award in the past.) </em></p>
<p><em>'Randy has taught me a lot,' she said. 'I'm not a corporate person. He was a CPA and brought on board good practices. I sometimes forget he's my son and admire what he is doing.'</em></p>
<p><em>Employee praise for Tina Rector included 'communicates well with everybody' and 'supports all aspects for agent to have the best and most productive environment.'</em></p>
<p><em>When she started Evergreen Realty in 1993, Rector had a revolutionary idea: Instead of splitting her agents' commissions, she charged a flat fee.</em></p>
<p><em>'When I started (as an agent), I split my comissions 50-50 with the broker and I knew that was ridiculous. The broker didn't do that much for me,' she said.</em></p>
<p><em>The approach empowers the agents, Randy Rector said, but also frees Evergreen from depending too much on top-producing agents.</em></p>
<p><em>'I decided to go out on my own because of the unethical behavior of ot her brokers; things they allowed, we won't,' Tina Rector said. 'Years ago, I pulled aside an agent for doing something wrong and he said, 'I pay your salary.' I said, 'Excuse me. You are going to remember this for the rest of your life.' and I let him go.'"</em></p>
<p>The organization is known for continuously supporting its agents and for having a friendly and knowledgeable management team. If you would like to learn more about Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc., visit <a href="http://www.evergreenrealty.net">http://www.evergreenrealty.net</a>&nbsp;or <a href="mailto:lisa.schulz@evergreenrealty.net">lisa.schulz@evergreenrealty.net</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Minimize Risk of Owning a Home</title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-minimize-risk-of-owning-a-home</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-minimize-risk-of-owning-a-home#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:06:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[First Time Home Buyers]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[ Tips & Advice]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-minimize-risk-of-owning-a-home</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p>The idea of owning a home can be scary and exciting at the same time. Scary, because of the potential mortgage catastrophes that may occur. Exciting, because who <em>doesn't</em> want to own a home?</p>
<p>Below are a handful of tips that can keep the risks low so that buying a home won't be as scary. <strong>1. Stick wit...</strong></p>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-minimize-risk-of-owning-a-home">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The idea of owning a home can be scary and exciting at the same time. Scary, because of the potential mortgage catastrophes that may occur. Exciting, because who <em>doesn't</em> want to own a home?</p>
<p>Below are a handful of tips that can keep the risks low so that buying a home won't be as scary. <strong>1. Stick with a fixed-rate mortgage.</strong> Adjustable rate mortgages, or ARMs, are gaining a lot of popularity. In financially aggressive crowds, the lure of low, 3 percent(ish) interest rates on ARMs is enough to overcome any qualms. As well, today's ARMs tend to have lower lifetime interest rate caps and require payment of principal, so they don't adjust as violently as the subprime interest-only and option ARMs that contributed to the foreclosure crisis.</p>
<p>If the thought of your mortgage payment changing over time makes you uneasy, you don't want to be obssed with interest rates for the next few years, or you simply&nbsp;enjoy the simplicity and predictability of knowing what your housing payment will be for the next 15, 20 or 30 years, then stick to a fixed-rate mortgage. The rates are higher, but with a fixed-rate loan, the risk of&nbsp;higher&nbsp;payment changes are non-existent.</p>
<p><strong>2. Put - and keep - a home warranty in place.</strong> When you become a homeowner, you will have responsibilities that you didn't have while you were still renting out that cozy apartment. You will be in charge of taking care of your home and its appliances. This includes repairment and the costs.&nbsp;It sounds like a lot of work and holes in your wallet, but getting a home warranty can put this worry at ease. <br /><br />A home warranty plan&nbsp;is introduced&nbsp;when escrow closes, and depending on the coverage you select, will cover your home against the breakdown of major systems and even some appliances, like furnaces and water heaters. In some cases, you can even upgrade the coverage to protect against roof leaks and some plumbing issues. When a covered item breaks down, just remember to call the home warranty company first - for the cost of a service call you can get the item repaired or even replaced, if necessary.</p>
<p>Talk with your agent - you might even be able to negotiate for the seller to pay for the first year's cost of the warranty. Remember to renew it when it expires every year, to keep a cap on your risk of unexpected repair costs for the duration of your tenure as a homeowner.</p>
<p><strong>3. Get repair bids and estimates, not just inspections.</strong> After you find the home of your dreams (or the home of your budget!) and get into contract, you'll have a contingency or objection period ranging from 7 to 17 days during which you can obtain all the inspections you want. Most buyers start out with a general property inspection, a pest inspection and a roof inspection, then get more specialized inspections if the property calls from it. Pest and roof inspectors will generally provide an inspection report AND a repair bid for any work they find needs to be done.</p>
<p>But the overall home inspection could very well list a dozen needed repairs, upgrades and maintenance items, without providing any information about how much those repairs will cost. If your inspection report surfaces work you'll need to have done to fix things (or avoid bigger fixes down the road), work with your agent to schedule actual repair contractors to come in and give you bids on the work before your contingency or inspection period expires. That will position you to negotiate around repair costs with the seller, or to know what you're getting yourself into, cost-wise, if you take the property as-is.</p>
<p><strong>4. Buy on the 10-year plan.</strong> Warren Buffett once famously advised stock investors to "only buy something that you'd be perfectly happy to hold if the market shut down for 10 years." The same advice is good for buying a home in today's real estate market. Take on a mortgage you know you can sustain, buy at a price you can comfortably afford and avoid having to sell because you need to move for some urgent reason, or because the home no longer meets your needs.<br /><br />You can take this last step to hedge against losing money on your home by planning your space, career and lifestyle needs out 5, 7, even 10 years in the future - everything from how many bedrooms and garage spaces you'll need to where you'll want to be located, geographically - and selecting a home that will meet those needs for that foreseeable future. As a general rule of thumb, the harder hit the area was in the recession, the longer you should plan to hold it.</p>
<p>Original article:<br /><a href="http://www.trulia.com/blog/taranelson/2011/07/4_steps_to_minimize_the_risk_of_owning_a_home">http://www.trulia.com/blog/taranelson/2011/07/4_steps_to_minimize_the_risk_of_owning_a_home</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>First Time Home Buyers</title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-first-time-home-buyers</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-first-time-home-buyers#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:48:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						<category><![CDATA[First Time Home Buyers]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-first-time-home-buyers</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p><a href="http://residentialhometeam.com/PropertyDetails?presented_by=idx&amp;pid=S625517:SOCAL&amp;ls=CARETS&amp;show_virtual_tour=yes&amp;show_description=yes"><img style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 240px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 320px;" src="http://csmedia.mris.com/platinum/getmedia?ID=95588470047&amp;LOOT=50045650620" border="0" alt=""></a>Buying a home is tedious and can be complicated, whether you've purchased six homes or one home in the past. For the first time home buyer, it may seem like an impossible task.</p>
<div>Fortunately, things are not what they always seem to be! Yes, buying a home <em>is</em> difficult, but there are plenty of tips tha...</div>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-first-time-home-buyers">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://residentialhometeam.com/PropertyDetails?presented_by=idx&amp;pid=S625517:SOCAL&amp;ls=CARETS&amp;show_virtual_tour=yes&amp;show_description=yes"><img style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 240px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 320px;" src="http://csmedia.mris.com/platinum/getmedia?ID=95588470047&amp;LOOT=50045650620" border="0" alt="" /></a>Buying a home is tedious and can be complicated, whether you've purchased six homes or one home in the past. For the first time home buyer, it may seem like an impossible task.</p>
<div>Fortunately, things are not what they always seem to be! Yes, buying a home <em>is</em> difficult, but there are plenty of tips that you may follow to make the process easy! Also, many states offer loans and grants to those who are limited in their income. As long as you keep that and these 15 tips in mind for the future, you should have no problem with the purchase of your first home!</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>1. Establish good credit. </strong></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<div>Unless you are incredibly wealthy (lucky you!), you will have to establish good credit in order to buy your very first home. Banks and mortgage lenders will not lend money to first time home buyers unless they have a history of borrowing money and paying it back on time. That is why this is the first step to achieving your home buying goal.</div>
<div>The easiest and quickest way to do this is to visit a bank and deposit a small amount ($500 will do). Apply for a $500 loan, using the deposited money as a security for your loan.</div>
<div>If your loan term is more than 6 months, make payments for the first 3 months, then pay the entire loan off. Repeat this process, but use larger amounts. Eventually, you will build a good track record so that you won't have to make any security deposits for loans. Instead, your track record will be so good, you'll just be able to borrow money with your signature.</div>
<div>Make sure that you aren't letting credit cards get in the way of your credit establishment. Be sure to pay off the entire balance every month.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>2. Raise your credit score.</strong></div>
<div>Besides establishing good credit, it's important to make sure that your credit score is high. This will increase your chances of getting your loan approved and you may qualify for the lowest rates. Below are some tips that will help you raise your credit score:</div>
<div>A.) Pay your bills on time</div>
<div>B.) Keep your credit card balances at zero, or super low</div>
<div>C.) Pay more than the minimum for your monthly payments</div>
<div>D.) Remove negative items from your credit report (you may negotiate this)</div>
<div>E.) Borrow great credit from a family member or close friend</div>
<div>It takes at least 2 months for your credit score to start improving once you implement these tips.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>3.) Save for a down payment and closing costs. </strong></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<div>When you buy your first home, you will need money for the down payment, as well as the closing cost. Start saving as soon as you can. Create a savings plan. It's difficult, but you will have to discipline yourself to stick to this plan. It helps to create a savings account where you set aside a consistent amount on a weekly basis. It doesn't have to be too big. Just get in the habit of saving some money.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>4.) Record your spendings.</strong></div>
<div>Whether you are a first time home buyer or not, you should develop a budget. A suggestion is to keep track of your spendings for one month. At the end of the month, you will be able to determine where your money is going exactly. This makes it easier for you to see areas where you can spend less or make improvements in your spendings.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>5.) Create a financial plan/goal. </strong></div>
<div>It is highly recommended for first time home buyers to set a goal of saving at least 20% of the purchase price to use as a down payment. 20% is the magical number here because a lot of programs will ask you to put less than 20%. It does make for a good buffer though.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>6.) Establish a relationship with an agent.</strong></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<div>Agents can provide a wealth of knowledge and information when it comes to the buying and selling process. For example, an agent can link you to many different houses that are in your area of interest. However, agents differ from one to the next and have their specialties. It is important to "shop" for an agent until you find one that you feel satisfied and comfortable with. Make sure to let your agent know that you are a first time home buyer as agents have their preferences and specialties on who or what to work with.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>7.) &nbsp;Study market values. </strong></div>
<div>When it comes to shopping for anything, everyone loves finding a great deal. At the same time, we never want to pay more for something than its worth. The same principles should be used in buying a house. Thus, it is important to study the market values in the area of interest. Over time, you will be able to develop a good sense of which properties in that area are overpriced or under priced.</div>
<div>You want to go for a home that is overpriced. More than likely, you will end up selling your first home some time. Statistics show that the average American sells his/her home and moves into a new one at a rate of 7 years. That means that if you can purchase a home for less than it is worth, you can make a good profit when you're ready to sell the house.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<div><strong>8.) Get pre-approved for a mortgage. </strong></div>
<div>You know how Superman is always ready when the villains come? It doesn't matter what time of the day it is, he always his super hero outfit underneath anything that he's wearing (professional attire and anything). It's because he's always ready for the worst and best cases scenarios.</div>
<div>When buying a house, you want to be prepared like Superman, and you can do this by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Not all lenders are equally efficient and helpful in working with buyers. But, if you are pre-approved, you will be ready for anything, like buying a house. With a pre-approval, your offer will carry more value with the seller because many sellers are looking to sell quickly. Therefore, you will be in a stronger position to close on the purchase.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>9.) Decide your needs and wants within your budget.</strong></div>
<div>Most first time home buyers have the candy shop boy syndrome. That is, they are overly eager about the kinds of houses they want to buy. Of course everyone wants to buy a beautiful house with 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, and a beautiful view, similar to the boy who wants to buy the big, swirly lollipop, 2 pounds of the rainbow looking Haribo gummy bears, and maybe a pound of jelly beans to go with all of that.</div>
<div>But, just as we know that we can't afford to consume all those calories, you have to be realistic and careful about your budget. When you buy your first home, there will be many incidental expenditures that will add up and strain your budget. Sure, we'd like those mansions in Laguna Beach, but not everyone can afford such luxuries (just yet).</div>
<div>If you focus on steps 4, 5, and 8, you will be able to understand your budget. Thus, preventing yourself from making the mistake that many first time home buyers make. Don't stretch your budget beyond what you can afford.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>10.) Shop for the <em>right</em> home. </strong></div>
<div>This is the most exciting step for home buyers. By this time, you should already understand your budget well, and you should have a good relationship with a real estate agent. Gather information to give to your agent so that he/she can assist you better.</div>
<div>Below are some details/information to provide to your agent. Try to follow the order too, because they are slightly sorted by importance.</div>
<div><ol>
<li>How much you are qualified to spend </li>
<li>Amenities that you desire (# of bedrooms, a fireplace, a deck, etc.)</li>
<li>Desired area/distance from work </li>
<li>What's negotiable (your first home won't have everything you want, so let your agent know about some of the things you're willing to do without for your first home)</li>
<li>Other information</li>
</ol>
<div>The more information you give to the agent, the more time you save for yourself and your agent. It is also important for you to visit many homes so that you will increase your wealth of knowledge when it comes to property values in the area you desire. However, keep in mind that your agent is paid on commission so he or she probably not want to show you 392 houses in the next three years. At the same time, we know that you would not want your agent to show you only one home and then pushing you to make the purchase. It's important to try to find the balance where everyone is happy. So, the more information you give, the more you and your agent can get done. Everyone wins!</div>
<div><br /></div>
</div>
<div><strong>11.) Choose the right neighborhood. </strong></div>
<div>You want to be a futuristic thinker when it comes to buying a house. There will come a time when you will want or need to sell your home due to reasons pertaining to your career (job relocations) or simply the desire to upgrade. For this futuristic reason, you want to think about choosing the right neighborhood so that when you do decide to sell your home,  you will be rewarded with a higher value home that is easier to sell.</div>
<div>Below are some things that a home buyer should look for when searching for a great neighborhood:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><strong>Located in a good school district - </strong>Bonus points for finding a home that is near a particularly well-recognized school. If this school appeals to you, it will also appeal to the next home buyer who will want to purchase this home from you in the future</li>
<li><strong>Is the area improving or in decline? -</strong> If the area is headed for a state of decline, the next buyer may not find this house desirable, even if the area is acceptable presently</li>
<li><strong>Is the area close to many popular attractions? -</strong> Being conveniently located next or close to parks, beaches, lakes, mountains, and other popular locations is attractive for first time home buyers and experienced homeowners. </li>
<li><strong>Choose your neighbors carefully - </strong>Is there an obnoxious neighbor next to the home you plan to purchase? Hopefully not. Nobody wants to live next to someone that will keep them up all night by loud, uncontrolled behavior from their neighbor. Do your research (safely and legally). Knock on your neighbors' doors and say hello. Find out what they are like. It'll be extremely helpful for you in the short and long run. </li>
</ul>
</div>
<div><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div><strong>12.)&nbsp;</strong><strong>Learn about the elements and terms of a sales contract.</strong></div>
<div>As a first time home buyer, you probably have never dealt with a real estate purchase and sale agreement. Below are some terms to know to help you understand the elements of a real estate contract:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><strong>Acceptance - </strong>how much time a seller has to either accept the offer or to provide a counter-offer</li>
<li><strong>Closing - </strong>a future date by which time the closing will take place</li>
<li><strong>Description - </strong>a legal description of the property as well as the street address</li>
<li><strong>Deposit - </strong>how much initial money is included with the contract and who will hold it</li>
<li><strong>Financial Contingency - </strong>a clause that states the entire contract is subject to the purchaser being able to obtain mortgage loan of $ amount by a certain date. First time home buyers should make sure their agent includes this clause in the contract. </li>
<li><strong>Home Inspection - </strong>the contract can be contingent upon a satisfactory home inspection to be done by a qualified profession within X amount of days </li>
<li><strong>Inclusions and Exclusions - </strong>some items in a home are not considered part of the real estate, but instead are personal property. Refrigerators and washing machines fit this category. This clause should state exactly what is included in the sale and what is not</li>
<li><strong>Insurance - </strong>who will insure the property until closing</li>
<li><strong>Price - </strong>the amount of money the buyer will be paying to the seller</li>
<li><strong>Possession Date - </strong>the date on which the buyer will receive possession of the property</li>
</ul>
<div>If you have any questions about the details of the contract, do not hesitate to ask your agent. He/she may answer any questions in this area.</div>
</div>
<div><strong>13.) Submit your offer.</strong></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<div>If you complete the first 12 steps, you may confidently submit an offer. This is not a mere science. Making your offer is an at, which is why there are many books out there dedicated to explaining techniques on negotiating real estate successfully. Below are some basic negotiation tips:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><strong>Know the seller -</strong> we know you want to purchase the house for as little as possible and the seller wants to sell the house for as much as possible. Somewhere in between is the settlement range. You'll be able to negotiate better if you find out what the seller wants. A quick closing, or a delayed one? Does the home need some work (new carpet, new windows)? Does the seller want to get this work done, or would he/she rather not deal with the hassle? Knowing these details will allow you to negotiate a win/win situation. </li>
<li><strong>Determine what would be the best and worst case scenarios -</strong> also determine how much risk is involved in purchasing this house. How badly do you want this house? Are you willing to lose the deal so that you may get your best case scenario? Think this through so that you won't make a decision you'll regret. </li>
<li><strong>Be professional at all times -</strong> it is important to remain emotionally neutral throughout the negotiation process, as emotions can affect your decisions. This may be a challenge as a first time home buyer because buying your first house is a very emotional situation. But, try your best to keep your emotions on the side so that you make a decision that you will always be happy with. After that, you'll have all the time in the world to celebrate and be on an emotional high. </li>
</ul>
<div><strong>14.) Arrange for a home inspection.</strong></div>
</div>
<div>Qualified home inspectors will examine the whole house in detail (roofing, heating and air conditioning systems, structural integrity, siding, windows, plumbing and electrical systems. If anything seems a little off or deficient, you will be notified in a detailed written report. Make sure your offer is based upon a satisfactory report.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><strong>15.) Arrange for homeowners insurance.</strong></div>
<div>All real estate owners should have homeowners insurance. You will soon be included in this group.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>Congratulations! You now know everything there is to know to be a successful, first time home buyer. Once you have gone through steps 1 through 15, you should probably start calling up all your friends to have a big moving party! Or, you can hire professional movers from a moving company.. I would personally go with the moving party because you'll save thousands of dollars and have a blast doing it!</div>
<div>Enjoy the years to come in your new home.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><span>This post was written based on an article from <a href="http://first-time-home-buyer-s.com/">http://first-time-home-buyer-s.com/</a>. The original post can be found here: <a href="http://first-time-home-buyer-s.com/first_time_home_buyer_guide.htm">http://first-time-home-buyer-s.com/first_time_home_buyer_guide.htm</a>.</span></div>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				<item>
			<title>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates Launches New Brokerage Website to Challenge Real Estate Search Giants</title>
			<link>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-launches-new-brokerage-website-to-challenge-real-estate-search-giants</link>
			<comments>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-launches-new-brokerage-website-to-challenge-real-estate-search-giants#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:24:00 -0800</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>Belyn</dc:creator>
						<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
						
			<guid>http://www.evergreenrealty.net/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-launches-new-brokerage-website-to-challenge-real-estate-search-giants</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[

<p>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc., a premier California real estate brokerage, has launched a new website featuring advanced property search features and full CRMLS listing integration, making it one of the strongest new players in the real estate search industry.</p>
<p>Evergreen contracted web design ...</p>

<p><a href="/company/blog/article/-evergreen-realty-associates-launches-new-brokerage-website-to-challenge-real-estate-search-giants">Read more</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc., a premier California real estate brokerage, has launched a new website featuring advanced property search features and full CRMLS listing integration, making it one of the strongest new players in the real estate search industry.</p>
<p>Evergreen contracted web design agency blazonco to design and program a website that would outperform standard brokerage sites and hold its own against major property search portals like Realtor.com, Trulia.com, and others. The site meets a wide array of buyer and agent needs by providing innovative property and agent search features in a format that is professional, powerful, and fun to use.</p>
<p>Evergreen&rsquo;s website allows visitors to search real estate listings across the California Regional MLS, one of the largest providers of listing information in the state. Property and listing information is displayed on Evergreen&rsquo;s site in a clean, minimalist format that allows for easy browsing and quick viewing of photos via a thumbnail gallery. Search results are shown in a unique grid format rather than a list, a feature that places more properties above the fold for rapid viewing.</p>
<p>Evergreen&rsquo;s new website features drag-and-reload Google Maps integration, which allows visitors to scroll through an embedded map on the search page and watch regional property listings load in real time. This functionality allows for an incredibly intuitive, user-friendly real estate search experience that is presently matched only by major sites like Redfin.com and Zillow.com. Evergreen is the first traditional brokerage to feature this type of integration on its company website.</p>
<p>The new website also makes it easier than ever for visitors, including home buyers and other real estate professionals, to locate any of Evergreen&rsquo;s more than 900 agents. Advanced functionality allows Evergreen to capture and display user-generated reviews and ratings for all agents, making the site an invaluable portal for up-to-date information about local agents across California.</p>
<p>The site is built entirely on blazonco&rsquo;s proprietary content management system, which features inline page editing and drag-and-drop module functionality, allowing Evergreen executives to easily edit page elements and make changes across the site. In the future, blazonco will provide individual websites for all Evergreen agents built on this same CMS, providing unity, stability, security, and internet marketing benefits to the entire brokerage.</p>
<p>With the launch of its new website, Evergreen Realty and Associates is positioned to streamline the home purchase process and make real estate search more intuitive and engaging for users.</p>
<p><strong>About Evergreen Realty &amp; Associates, Inc.</strong></p>
<p>Since 1993, Evergreen Realty and Associates, Inc. has been serving the needs and meeting the expectations of thousands of home buyers, sellers and investors throughout California. Whether you&rsquo;re a ﬁrst-time or experienced home buyer, seller or investor, our REALTORS and professional staff understand that the most important attributes of any real estate transaction are your needs, interests and goals! For more information, visit&nbsp;<strong><a href="http://evergreenrealty.net/" target="_blank">evergreenrealty.net</a></strong>.</p>
<p><strong>About blazonco</strong></p>
<p>With over fourteen years of experience serving businesses of all sizes, blazonco has developed a suite of robust design and marketing services, including web design, branding, internet marketing, SEO, social media, and PPC management. We help businesses succeed online. Learn more at&nbsp;<strong><a href="http://blazonco.com/" target="_blank">blazonco.com</a></strong>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
				
	</channel>
</rss>
