Realty Queen

Tanager

2012-01-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

Real Estate Photography Tips

2012-01-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

When taking pictures of a new listing, be sure to remember these 7 tips:

Outside Photography

1. Take a minimum of three shots per subject. This way you can choose the best quality photos to use.

2. Make sure that the subject of your photos is not in the direct center. A little to the left or to the right is always more cosmetically appealing.

3. Try not to take photos in the evening or at night. Excessive shadows can deter clients rather than draw them in.

4. When photographing views, make sure the horizon line is not directly in the middle. One third up from the bottom or one third down from the top is recommended.

Inside Photography

5. Turn on all lights and adjust for best picture. (Open curtains are more appealing than closed.)

6. Make sure the rooms are clean. The more space that clients can see, the better.

7. Take bedroom photos from a corner so that as much of the room as possible can be seen.

8. Use Picnik to touch up photos and add watermarks.

Apple Valley

2012-01-05T16:57:00.000-08:00

Dogwood

2011-10-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

Chief Fuller

2011-09-13T15:23:00.000-07:00

Chief Fuller

2011-09-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

Need a flyer for tomorrow's open house? Print yours here

Hilltop and Dogwood Flyers

2011-09-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

Need a flyer for Saturday's open houses? Print yours here.

Hilltop

2011-08-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

Pine Cone

2011-08-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

Dove Court

2011-08-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Need a flyer for tomorrow's open house? Print yours here.

Haiapo Road

2011-08-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Abraham Avenue

2011-07-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

Dogwood Lane

2011-07-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

Need a flyer for tomorrow's open house? Print yours here.

Lakeview Drive

2011-07-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July! This holiday weekend take some time to realize what these words mean. Have a good weekend everyone.

O! say can you see by the dawn’s early light,

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming,

Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,

O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;

O! say does that star-spangled banner yet wave,

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep,

Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream:

’Tis the star-spangled banner, O! long may it wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore

That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion,

A home and a country, should leave us no more?

Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps’ pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave:

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave,

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

O! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand

Between their loved home and the war’s desolation.

Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the Heav’n rescued land

Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: “In God is our trust;”

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

"The Star-Spangled Banner" by Francis Scott Key

Abraham Flyer

2011-06-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Need a flyer for Saturday's open house? Print yours here.

Personalized Property Portfolio

2011-06-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

Searching for a home? Need an easy way to get updated real estate info? Well here are 10 steps to creating your own personalized listing report to be emailed to you daily.

Creating your portfolio

1. Go to valogletree.com.

2. On the top left under My Portfolio click Create a Portfolio.

3. Enter your first name, last name, email address, a password, and any other contact information that you wish include.

4. Enter the captia code and click Create My Portfolio at the bottom of the page.
You have successfully created your portfolio. An email notification will be sent to you with all your login information to keep for further reference.

Personalize Your Search

5. Log into your porfolio at valogletree.com.

6. Under your My Porfolio Overview click Searches.

7. Click "Create a new search by clicking here."

8. Choose your search criteria: listing type, area, city, price range, etc.

9. Choose your property features: bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, square footage, acerage, etc.

10. Review your search and click Save This Search at the top of the listings on the right.

This search will run everyday and report to your email the listings that meet your home buying needs.

For more information contact Val Ogletree at (209) 559-5725.

10 Tips for Awesome Annuals

2011-06-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

As you purchase and begin planting this season's batch of annuals, consider these tips for great results:

1. Look for stocky seedlings with bright green foliage when shopping for annuals.

2. Soak hard-coated annual seeds overnight before planting. Nasturtium and morning glory are two species that benefit from this treatment.

3. Keep color in mind when you plan your garden. Plant flowers with complementary colors near each other. For example, blue, white and pink flowers are a good combination in the same border.
4. Include annual vines in your garden. Sweet pea, climbing nasturtium, morning glory, and moon vine can grow up and over your garden.
5. Use annuals to provide fill-in color, if you have an established perennial border.
6. Mulch annual flowers to eliminate weeds and maintain soil moisture.
7. Pinch back buds with your fingers to encourage stem growth.
8. Snip off flowers as they fade to encourage continuous blooming.
9. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to water your plants.
10. Promote new growth on small-flowered plants, such as alyssum, by shearing them back in midsummer.

For more gardening tips, contact Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Hilltop Flyer

2011-06-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

A Child-Proof Home

2011-05-13T16:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Lots of perils that can injure children are lurking in our homes. Here are some tips to help make your home safer.

• Put safety stops on all cabinet doors and drawers. Knobs should be too large for children to swallow.

• Store chemicals, cleaners, medicines and liquor in upper cabinets — locked and out of sight.
• Provide safe storage for sharp objects such as knives and scissors.

• Cover sharp corners on counters, tables and hearths.

• Place all electrical outlets, especially those near water, on a ground fault circuit interrupter (it instantly shuts off electricity if there’s any leakage of current).

• Keep cords for draperies and mini-blinds out of reach.

• Buy hardware that limits how far windows can be opened.

• Set water temperature at no more than 120˚.

• Install hardware on the bathroom door that can be unlocked from either side.

• Install windows and mirrors with protective film that prevents shards from flying when broken.

For more home and family information, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty, at (209) 586-3242.

Cooking Up Home Sales

2011-04-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Your kitchen is one of the most influential rooms in selling your home. When prospective buyers look at your kitchen, they will pay particular attention to its cleanliness, layout and storage capacity.

• When your home is on the market, it's best to remove small appliances from your counters. It's also a good idea to remove magnets and pictures from the refrigerator.

• Don't just shove everything into your cabinets and drawers, however. Prospective buyers will look inside. Keep in mind that these buyers want to see how much space is available, not how well you've filled it. To give the appearance of more storage, use wire baskets and trays.

• Scrub the sink, mop the floor and put all the dishes away. To eliminate any lingering food odors, grind a piece of lemon in the garbage disposal.

• If your kitchen has lots of windows and natural light — take advantage! Using the highest-wattage bulbs allowed in your light fixtures will also brighten the room.

• You may want to add some color and fragrance to your kitchen with a blooming plant or floral arrangement.

• A good percentage of money spent on remodeling a kitchen is usually returned through an increased selling price for the home. If remodeling is not in your budget there are many low-cost ways to spruce up the kitchen.

• A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color can take off years. Small details such as replacing the outdated knobs on your cabinets can make a surprising difference.

For more tips on merchandising the kitchen and the rest of your home, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Easter Egg Hunt 2011

2011-04-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, time for the annual Mi Wuk Easter Egg Hunt! Come join us in Mi Wuk Meadow tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. for prizes, refreshments, drawing for Easter Egg ham, Easter bunny for pictures, and of course the Easter Egg Hunt.

Thank you to our sponsors: Val Ogletree and Juli Healy, Real Living Sugar Pine Realty, Diamond Jim's, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Mi Wuk Area Homeowner's Association, Word of Life Fellowship Inc., Andy's Mountain Grill and Deli, Angel's Pest Control, and Mi Wuk General Store.

Anniversary of the Titanic Sinking

2011-04-15T15:40:00.001-07:00

Today marks the anniversary of the Titanic's sinking. The biggest luxury ship to ever set sail; it was said that "not even God himself could sink this ship." 99 years ago, the Titanic hit an iceberg on its maiden voyage and sank at around 4:00 this morning. Without adequate lifeboats or safety drill, the sinking of the Titanic resulted in the death of the majority of her passengers. Read more about the sinking of the Titanic here: http://ow.ly4BrFF

More Snow Pics

2011-03-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

This is the Sugar Pine Office after the latest snow storm.

Snow Pics

2011-03-23T11:01:00.001-07:00

Snow pics of the Sugar Pine Office. (This was before the storm.
After pictures coming soon.)

Helping Kids Through a Move

2011-03-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

When moving your family to a new home, it's especially important to be aware of what your children are facing — new friends, new neighborhood, new schools — and help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Before you move:

Find out as much as you can about your new community. If possible, take your child with you on house-hunting trips. Visit your child's new school. Ask if there is a dress code and see what kids are wearing. Help your child plan a going-away party. Give guests stamped envelopes with your new address to encourage letter-writing. Plan a family outing to say "goodbye" to some of your child's favorite places. Pack a few of your child's belongings to take with you in the car or carry on the plane, in case there's a delay in moving your possessions into your home.

Once you're there:

Help arrange and decorate your child's room right away. When the kids are situated, work on the rest of the house will go much more smoothly. Encourage your child to join extra-curricular activities. They're a great way to find new friends with common interests. Get a map and help your child learn his or her way around. Find out where the nearest locations are for activities your child enjoys.

The best things you can do for your children are to present a positive attitude about the move, keep them informed and reassure them that you'll be there to help them face new challenges.

For more moving tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Personalized Listing Reports

2011-03-11T15:53:00.000-08:00

Here are 10 steps to creating your own personalized listing report to be emailed to you daily.

Creating your portfolio

1. Go to valogletree.com.

2. On the top left under My Portfolio click .

3. Enter your first name, last name, email address, a password, and any other contact information that you wish include.

4. Enter the captia code and click Create My Portfolio at the bottom of the page.

You have successfully created your portfolio. An email notification will be sent to you with all your login information to keep for further reference.

Personalize Your Search

5. Log into your porfolio at valogletree.com.

6. Under your My Porfolio Overview click Searches.

7. Click "Create a new search by clicking here."

8. Choose your search criteria: listing type, area, city, price range, etc.

9. Choose your property features: bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, square footage, acerage, etc.

10. Review your search and click Save This Search at the top of the listings on the right.

This search will run everyday and report to your email the listings that meet your home buying wants and needs.

For more information contact Val Ogletree at (209) 559-5725.

Top Ten Valentine Gifts

2011-02-09T14:45:00.000-08:00

Out of curiosity I went searching online to find out what the top ten Valentine gifts are. I was surprised at what I found for apparently the top ten are:

1. An iPod
2. Red roses
3. Chocolate
4. A CD
5. A cell phone
6. Air tickets
7. Jewelry
8. Day trips/dinner
9. Photos
10. Perfume

Find the top ten Valentine gifts and more Valentine ideas @ http://tinyurl.com/4eewxua.

Have a great Valentine’s Day!

Say It With Flowers

2011-02-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Garden flowers can do more than just brighten your landscape — they can also brighten your home.

Arrangements of garden flowers don't have to be elaborate. The simple beauty of a single rose or peony blossom floating in a clear bowl can be an attractive centerpiece.

When combining different species, look for variety in flower form, size and texture. This can be a mix of spike-flowers; round, daisy-like flowers and dainty fillers like baby's-breath.

Arrange your garden flowers in clean containers or vases that will complement the flowers, without being overbearing. You do not want a container to compete with the flowers for attention.

Select a container that's in proportion to the size of the flowers, their stem length and the size of the arrangement you plan to make. For low containers, arrangements should be 1 to 1 1/2 times as tall as the container's width. For tall containers, arrangements should be 1 1/4 to 2 times the container's height.

When you're ready to arrange your flowers, re-cut the stems under water to the desired length. A flower preservative, available from florists and garden centers, added to the vase water, will help to keep the flowers fresh-looking longer.

Always use clean water for arrangements. If flowers are displayed in vases, it's a good idea to change the water daily to prevent early wilting and browning.

Display your vases or arrangements of garden flowers in a cool location and out of direct sunlight and drafts.

For more home decorating ideas, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Thank You

2011-01-26T14:11:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for the birthday wishes! Your support is greatly appreciated.

Moving the Menagerie

2011-01-21T16:25:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Moving can be stressful for you and your family members, but it's especially hard for pets who have no idea why their world has been suddenly disrupted. These tips assume you are moving your pet by car. If you need to transport your pet on an airplane, check carefully with the airline and your veterinarian for restrictions and precautions.

• Before you move, get a copy of your pet's complete medical history, a certificate signed by the veterinarian stating the pet is in good health and a sheet stating when and where the pet was vaccinated for rabies.

• On moving day make sure your pet is wearing some kind of I.D. tag with your new address and phone number.

• Pack your pet's bed, toys, brush, dishes and bottled water. You'll need a leash and collar as well as a scoop and bag for cleanups after roadside exercise breaks.

• Feed your pet at least two or three hours before you leave and keep its meals light during the trip. If the pet suffers from motion sickness, your veterinarian may be able to provide something to help.

• Plan short rest stops for at least every three hours, plus a couple of play periods each day.

• Never leave your pet in an unventilated car, or for more than a few minutes in a ventilated one.

• Unpack your pet's things as soon as you can. Make sure the pet knows where its new feeding and sleeping areas are.

• If your pet's behavior alters dramatically in the first few days, chalk it up to the stress of moving. If problems persist, contact a veterinarian.

For more moving tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

House (Plant) Calls

2011-01-14T13:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

All houseplants require proper light, humidity, water and food, but what's great for one plant might be deadly for another.

Light

By learning your plant's light requirements you can match its needs with a window that provides the proper exposure. Plants needing high light prefer an unobstructed east, south or west window. Plants needing medium light prefer light levels within 10 feet of a sunny window. Plants needing low light prefer a northern or shaded window.

Humidity
To boost humidity, set plant containers on trays filled with pebbles and water — but don't let the pots themselves sit in the water. It also helps to group plants together.

Water
Add tepid water until it drains through the hole in the bottom of the pot and shows in the saucer. This ensures that the entire root area receives a thorough soaking. The roots need air, too, so be sure to empty the saucer twenty minutes later.

Food
Feed plants monthly according to fertilizer package directions or twice a month at half the recommended rate. Do not fertilize plants from September to April unless they're under artificial lights.

Bringing home a new plant
Expect your plant to drop a few leaves as it adjusts to its surroundings. Hold back feeding because the nutrients in potting soil will be adequate for at least six months. Also, isolate arrivals for a few weeks to make sure they are not hiding insects.

For more home and garden tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

25 Year Service Award (Congratulations, Val O!)

2011-01-07T14:16:00.000-08:00

Promoting Your Garage Sale

2011-01-07T13:42:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

If you want your next garage sale to be a huge success, put some time and effort into promoting it.

· Plan your advertising strategy well in advance and spend your advertising money wisely. Shopper-type publications, community television stations and your local paper are generally good bets. Call these companies early to get policies, prices and deadlines.

· Look for free advertising sources such as bulletin boards in local businesses and friends' company newsletters. Create a sale flier and distribute it around your neighborhood to boost attendance.

· Arrange for your ads to appear the days of the sale as well as the day before. The ad should cover the basics including the date, time and address of your sale. If your home is hard to find, include directions. Adding certain words like huge, bargains, antiques, consignment-quality and designer will help your ad grab shoppers' attention.

· Make signs and post them along important access routes on the days of the sale. The signs should be written in a simple block style and have letters large enough to read from a passing car. They should point the way to your house and include the date and time.

· On the sale dates, folks driving by are basically window shopping. Using flags, balloons, promotional signs — anything that can make your sale stand out — will attract attention and invite people to stop.

· Keep a consistent look with the decorations on your signs so that your house is easily identifiable.

For more information on holding a garage sale, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Happy Holiday's from Realty Queen

2010-12-23T14:19:00.000-08:00

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Luke 2:8-14

Merry Christmas!

Home Team Treatment

2010-12-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Most sports injuries are either strains or sprains. These injuries are painful but can usually be treated successfully at home.

Strains result from "pulling" muscles and tendons that attach muscles to the bone. Sprains are more serious and occur when ligaments stretch or tear.

Symptoms of these injuries include pain and swelling in the first 24 hours followed by discoloration and stiffness.

The best home treatment is a three-step approach. Just remember the acronym ICE: Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Ice
• The first thing to do to an injured area is apply ice, which will help reduce the swelling. Keep the ice directly on the area for 20 minutes. It's best not to use chemical ice (the kind used in coolers) because the temperature isn't low enough.

• Also helpful is an ice massage. Use six-ounce paper cups to freeze water, then tear off half the paper and rub the ice on the swollen area for 8 to 12 minutes each hour.

• Don't apply heat until the swelling has gone down. Then alternate between hot and cold treatments to encourage blood flow.

Compression
• Wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage to help prevent further swelling and give support. Don't wrap the area too tightly or wear the bandage overnight. You can also purchase an inflatable air cast at a pharmacy or medical supply store.

Elevation
• Prop an injured leg on a chair and use a sling to elevate an injured arm or wrist. If problems persist contact a physician.

For more family health information, contact Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Realtor's Rainbow

2010-12-10T15:17:00.000-08:00

Snow in Sugar Pine!

2010-12-03T16:45:00.000-08:00

Special Holiday Blogpost!

2010-11-24T14:29:00.001-08:00

Things that I'm thankful for:

1. Our Lord and all His Blessings

2. My Family and all my Friends

3. All my faithful Clients

4. For Health

5. For my beautiful new car (RED)

6. For my warm Home

7. For my Business and my co-workers

From our home to yours, Happy Holidays!

What Makes a House a Home?

2010-11-19T15:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Before building, buying or remodeling, ask yourself what it takes to get that "at home" feeling. It's not just how a house looks that's important, but how you feel living in it day to day. Here are some ideas on how to make your house more homey.

Bigger is not always better

Lofty ceilings can be dazzling, but daunting. It may be wiser to design flat ceilings at 9 or 10 feet high or tame a too-high cathedral ceiling by installing exposed, rafter-height beams of rough-hewn timber. Smaller rooms create feelings of intimacy, warmth, and safety.

Furniture that fits people

One measurement of a homey room is comfortable furniture — especially sofas and chairs. Keep in mind that people do not just sit on them. They also sit in them, curl up in them and stretch out in them.

Material matters

Different interior materials evoke different emotional responses. It's not just the type of materials you use, but how much you use and in what combinations.

Telltale heart

What really makes a home special are heirlooms, collections, and framed family photographs exhibited where they can be appreciated every day.

For more home decorating tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Seeing Spots

2010-11-12T15:44:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

If you're seeing spots on your carpet, you can probably make use of these simple tips for removing common carpet stains.

Tar, grease, chewing gum, and wax
Remove as much as possible by gently scraping with a dull knife, then treat the stain with dry-cleaning fluid. For chewing gum, try applying ice cubes in a plastic bag to harden the gum before scraping.

Cigarette burns
Patching is necessary for complete repair, but you can mask the damage. Snip off the darkened fiber ends, then blot the area with a solution of 1 teaspoon detergent and 1 teaspoon vinegar in a quart of warm water.

Lipstick
Gently blot with a dry-cleaning solution, then rinse with a solution of 1 tablespoon ammonia in a cup of water.

Animal stains, fruit juices
If the stain is still wet, try repeatedly sponging with lukewarm water. Then, blot dry and treat with a solution of 1 teaspoon detergent and 1 teaspoon vinegar in a quart of warm water. After waiting 15 minutes, blot again and sponge with clean water.

Paint
Oil-base paints can usually be removed with turpentine. Water-base paints clean up with water.

Ink
Blot ball-point-ink with denatured alcohol as soon as possible. Permanent ink can't be removed, but you can minimize the damage by blotting with water.

For more home-and-family tips, contact Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Conquer Closet Clutter

2010-11-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

When you're trying to sell a home it's not the skeletons in the closet that will hurt you — it's all the other stuff you have jammed into them.

Adequate storage space is one of the first things prospective buyers look for when they inspect a home. You can be sure they'll open all of your doors and drawers — checking to see if your home has room for their belongings.

There are many tricks to making your storage space seem more adequate. The easiest one is to simply move some of your possessions out.
• Remove out-of-season clothing, sports equipment and other miscellaneous items from your front entry closet. Try to take out half the items in your bedroom closets to make them appear more roomy. Prospective buyers want to see how much space is in your closets, not how much you've been able to cram into them.

• Keep in mind that the more things you give away, throw out, sell or store now, the easier your move will be later.

• To increase the storage capacity of your closets, add an extra pole, shoe racks, wire baskets or shelves.

• You can also make closets appear bigger by applying a fresh coat of white paint and putting in the highest-wattage bulbs allowed.

• Other important storage areas to reorganize include kitchen cabinets, garage and attic. The use of dividers and hanging racks in these areas will make things easier for you to find, and make your home more appealing to buyers.

For more tips on merchandising your home, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Blinds and Shades

2010-10-29T14:57:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Purchasing window treatments can be a major investment. You can protect this investment by engaging in proper maintenance for your blinds and shades.

· Blinds and shades will stay in shape if you dust them monthly with a soft cloth or vacuum's brush attachment. For heavier dust on mini-blinds, use a finger-like brush designed to clean five slats at a time. Clean stained-wood blinds with furniture polish.

· When metal or plastic mini-blinds need a more thorough cleaning, take them outside and wash the slats with a sponge and soapy water. Then, hang the slats from a clothesline and rinse with a hose. Shake off excess water, drain rails and towel dry to avoid water marks and rusting.

· If you can't take your blinds down, fill one bucket with a solution of grease-cutting household detergent and another bucket with water. Working from the top down, wash both sides of each slat, then rinse using a second sponge dipped in plain water. Dry slats with a towel.

· Fabric roller shades should also be taken down for a good cleaning. Place the unrolled shade on a flat surface and sponge with lukewarm water and mild soap, trying not to soak the fabric. Work in sections, removing excess moisture with a dry cloth. Hang the shade at the window, pull it down to full length and let it dry. Then, roll the shade to the top and leave it for a few hours to give a crisp, ironed look.

· Some non-washable shades can be cleaned with wallpaper cleaner, others need dry cleaning.

For more home-and-family tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 533-3242.

Made for Shade

2010-10-15T15:48:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

With careful planning and good plant selection, even the shady spots of your garden will come alive.

To create a shade garden in an area underneath a large tree, plant ground covers which have shallow roots. To add height and texture to a shady corner, plant ferns which thrive in acidic soil and deep shade.

Perennials and bulbs provide a rainbow of color and interesting foliage. Spring-blooming bulbs flourish in the sun before deciduous trees regain their leaves.

Fill in gaps with shade-tolerant annuals. These will add color while your perennials are out of bloom.

To make your shade garden look more natural, plant odd numbers of the same species and add shrubs for permanent structure. They will create a backdrop for smaller plantings and add texture and color.

Start with a good plan and add to it each year. As other plants mature, you'll need fewer annuals to fill in the gaps.

Shade-loving plants

• Ground Covers: Ajuga, Epimedium, Euonymus, Fern, Hosta, Ivy, Lamium, Lily-of-the-Valley.

• Perennials: Bleeding heart, Daylily, Columbine, Coralbells, Fern, Goat's beard, Lobelia, Lungwort, Primrose, Snake-root, Trillium, Woodland phlox.

• Bulbs: Tuberous begonia, Caladium, Calla lily.

• Annuals: Begonia, Coleus, Impatiens, Vinca.

• Shrubs: Azalea, Boxwood, Hydrangea, Yew.

For more gardening tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Preparing Your Home for Show

2010-10-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

To show your home to its best advantage, you have to look at it objectively, as though you were a potential buyer. Since a home is such an emotional purchase, people often base their choice on feelings. Regardless of your location and price, if something about your home “feels wrong,” the buyer will look elsewhere.

Readying the outside

• Since people begin to judge your home the moment they drive up, the first impression is crucial.

• Make sure your front lawn looks neat. Cut the grass and trim the hedges. Plant some extra flowers for color — or put some potted plants beside the front door.

• Take a close look at your front door. If it’s faded or needs repair, clean it, stain it or paint it. While you’re at it, do the same with the back door and garage door.

• Repainting the exterior of your home is a fairly expensive venture, and really unnecessary unless the sides have had blistering or peeling. Painting window sashes, trim and shutters can do wonders.

Readying the inside

• Brighten things with fresh paint. White, off-white, or beige walls make a room look bigger.

• Too much clutter and too much furniture can make a home “feel wrong.” Move out all excess furniture to make rooms appear larger.

• Clear off the kitchen counters — make them look as expansive as possible. Clean the oven and all appliances. Put a fresh flower or plant on the counter.

• Get out your tool kit: Tighten loose doorknobs, drawer pulls, cabinet handles, towel racks, switch plates and outlet covers. Fix leaky faucets and remove water stains.

Bring on the buyers

• When it’s time for your agent to show your home, all your preparations will be worth it. But here are a few final tips.

• Make yourself scarce. Many prospects feel like intruders when the owners are present. They tend to hurry away, or fail to ask the questions they’d like to ask. Your absence will put buyers at ease, and give them a chance to spend more time looking at your house.

• Let your sales professional show your home even when you’re not there. If you don’t, you’re limiting the showings — and actually keeping your house off the market many hours a day.

• Always keep your home ready for show. Your sales professional will try to give you as much advance warning as possible. Likewise, other sales professionals may call to arrange showings. But the bottom line is: Always be prepared.

For more home and family information, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty, at (209) 586-3242.

The Art of Displaying Artwork

2010-10-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Don't get nailed with extra holes in your walls and poorly arranged pictures. Consider these tips before hanging artwork.

That can be arranged

· If you have several smaller items or a large wall on which to showcase your artwork, an arrangement may work best.

· Artwork can be grouped by color, subject matter or by matching frames or mats. Consider varying the sizes and shapes of items to add interest to an arrangement.

Orderly conduct

· To keep a grouping from looking disorderly, create a geometric shape with the outer edges and plan for at least one or two straight lines to run through the arrangement.

· You can achieve cohesiveness by hanging items relatively close together so they seem like a unit. Make sure one item doesn't overshadow the others.

· Items arranged in a V or inverted V shape lead the eye in a smooth fashion.

Location counts

· Pictures should be at either standing eye level or seated eye level depending on the room. Place pictures where they won't be obscured by the head of a sitting person.

· It's also best to mount items no more than one foot above furnishings. If you need to hang a picture higher, fill the gap with a vase or other decoration.

Put in on paper

· Don't start hammering until you have a plan. First trace around the frame on a piece of paper, mark where the hook is and cut out the form. Place the paper on the wall and when it's where you want — nail it!

For more home decorating ideas, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Home Team Treatment

2010-09-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Most sports injuries are either strains or sprains. These injuries are painful but can usually be treated successfully at home.

Strains result from "pulling" muscles and tendons that attach muscles to the bone. Sprains are more serious and occur when ligaments stretch or tear.

Symptoms of these injuries include pain and swelling in the first 24 hours followed by discoloration and stiffness.

The best home treatment is a three-step approach. Just remember the acronym ICE: Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Ice

• The first thing to do to an injured area is apply ice, which will help reduce the swelling. Keep the ice directly on the area for 20 minutes. It's best not to use chemical ice (the kind used in coolers) because the temperature isn't low enough.

• Also helpful is an ice massage. Use six-ounce paper cups to freeze water, then tear off half the paper and rub the ice on the swollen area for 8 to 12 minutes each hour.

• Don't apply heat until the swelling has gone down. Then alternate between hot and cold treatments to encourage blood flow.

Compression

• Wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage to help prevent further swelling and give support. Don't wrap the area too tightly or wear the bandage overnight. You can also purchase an inflatable air cast at a pharmacy or medical supply store.

Elevation

• Prop an injured leg on a chair and use a sling to elevate an injured arm or wrist. If problems persist contact a physician.

For more family health information, contact Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Turn Clutter Into Cash

2010-09-10T14:28:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

When you're having a garage sale, little things make a big difference. These simple tips can add a lot to your profits.

• To get the best prices for your items, you need to display them in the best possible light. Launder linens, polish silver and make simple repairs. Investing a little elbow grease can pay big dividends.

• Separate your goods into categories and lay them out so they are easy to see. Books and record albums should be positioned spine up so the titles are visible. All items should be assembled. Store items in clear plastic bags instead of cardboard boxes.

• A trip to local garage sales or a second-hand store can help determine appropriate asking prices for products in your area. Additionally, make sure every item is priced. Customers will often pass over unmarked products instead of asking their cost. Be prepared to haggle.

• Clean the garage, doing your best to remove unsightly stains and odors. Install the brightest light bulbs allowed.

• Have mirrors and a dressing area available for customers to try on clothes. Position appliances near an electrical outlet so they can be tested.

• Provide coffee and other beverages. Set up some lawn chairs to give weary customers a place to sit. A brief rest or a cold drink can refresh shoppers and make them more likely to buy.

• Most importantly, be friendly. The more helpful you are, the more you'll sell.

For more tips on holding a garage sale, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

What Makes a House a Home?

2010-08-20T13:48:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Before building, buying or remodeling, ask yourself what it takes to get that "at home" feeling. It's not just how a house looks that's important, but how you feel living in it day to day. Here are some ideas on how to make your house more homey.

Bigger is not always better
Lofty ceilings can be dazzling, but daunting. It may be wiser to design flat ceilings at 9 or 10 feet high or tame a too-high cathedral ceiling by installing exposed, rafter-height beams of rough-hewn timber. Smaller rooms create feelings of intimacy, warmth, and safety.

Furniture that fits people
One measurement of a homey room is comfortable furniture — especially sofas and chairs. Keep in mind that people do not just sit on them. They also sit in them, curl up in them and stretch out in them.

Material matters
Different interior materials evoke different emotional responses. It's not just the type of materials you use, but how much you use and in what combinations.

Telltale heart
What really makes a home special are heirlooms, collections, and framed family photographs exhibited where they can be appreciated every day.

For more home decorating tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.

Neighborhood Garage Sales

2010-07-23T15:10:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

When it comes to garage sales, bigger is better! As avid garage sale shoppers scan the local classifieds and form their plans of attack, some of the key words they like to see are "multi-family" and "block sale."

Merging goods from a few homes or a whole neighborhood is a great way to generate interest for the sale and increase your own profits. It also splits up the workload and advertising costs. Group sales are also a great way to pull people together or welcome new families.

One of the most difficult aspects of multi-family garage sales is dividing up the profits at the end. This problem can be helped by keeping a running list of the items sold or using price tags that are color coded or contain families' names.

Before the sale, participating families also need to get together and set the ground rules for haggling. Some people want their goods sold only at the marked prices, while others may be willing to negotiate. The cashiers need to know these preferences.

Garage sales can be social events. The more people involved, the more fun you'll have. A big sale can essentially become a profitable block party.

With any garage sale, and especially one with multiple families, a few details are bound to go wrong. Remember that the true goal of the sale is to get rid of unwanted items. So keep your perspective and keep it fun.

You're cleaning out your house and making some money to boot — so don't sweat the small stuff.

For more information on holding a garage sale, call Sugar Pine Realty/GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Less-Mess Grilling

2010-07-02T13:35:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

If you'd rather replace your old grill rack than clean it, try these hassle-free tips for less-mess grilling.

Before grilling

• Spray the cold grill rack with a nonstick vegetable spray coating.

• Line the inside of the firebox with heavy foil. When you're finished grilling and the ashes have cooled, you can bundle up the foil and throw it all away. Heavy foil is stronger and less likely to tear.

After grilling

• Remove the rack after you're done cooking as soon as it cools down. Fill a large tub with hot, sudsy water and put in the rack to soak. An alternative is to cover both sides of the rack with wet paper towels or newspapers and let stand while you eat. Later, the burned-on food should wash right off.

• To remove stubborn burned-on food, sprinkle dry baking soda on a damp sponge and lightly scour the grill rack. You can also scrub with an abrasive-type cleaning pad, crumpled foil or a stiff grill brush. Read your grill's cleaning and care instructions before using any cleaning products or abrasives.

For gas grills

• Clean the inside of your gas grill by turning on the gas burners to the high setting. Close the hood and let the grill self-clean about 15 minutes. Let the grill cool, and then wipe off burned food particles.

• Once a year, remove the grill rack, briquettes and rack from the gas grill so you can brush out the bottom.

For more home-and-family tips, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Wicker Picker Uppers

2010-06-11T13:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Once relegated to the porch, wicker is now a permanent fixture inside. Wicker mixes easily with other styles of furniture and readily assumes a new personality with a coat of paint or other embellishments.

On the fringe

Embellishing any wicker chair with a little frill is easy. All you need is a hot-glue gun and fringe hefty enough to be seen against the textural wicker.

• Measure your chair from the end of one arm to the end of the other; add 2 inches. Measure around the bottom of the chair; add 2 inches. Purchase 5-inch-long fringe in these amounts.

• Seal the fringe's cut ends with hot glue. Starting at one end of the chair and using a hot-glue gun, glue the fringe along the chair's arms and back. Glue the fringe along the bottom the same way.

• Don't use a low temperature glue for this project. If the chair will be subjected to high heat or intense sun, use upholstery tacks or white glue instead of a glue gun.

Aged to perfection

To give a new wicker rocker an old look, create layers of colors that mock how coats of paint would be worn away.

• Paint the chair with a dark base coat. When the paint is almost dry and slightly tacky, use rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth or steel wool to remove the paint and expose the wicker in areas of high wear (seat, back, arms and skirt). These areas should be uneven to appear naturally worn.

• After this coat dries, add a lighter coat and remove some of it the same way. Dark paint and wicker should now show through.

For more home decorating tips, contact Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Pizza Hot Off the Grill

2010-05-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Grilled pizza is an easy, fun and fast way to serve summer's garden-fresh produce, so fire up the grill and get cooking.

The intense, direct heat of the grill approximates that of a wood-fired pizza oven. This gives the pie's veggies and cheese a pleasing smoke flavor, meats real sizzle and the crust a delightful crunch.

Get grilling

• To grill on a charcoal grill, be sure the coals are white and medium-hot. For a gas grill, close the lid, turn it on high for 5 to 10 minutes, then lower the heat. The grill rack should be 3 to 4 inches above the coals or lava rocks.

• These thin-crust pizzas cook quickly, usually a minute or two for each side. Exact cooking times depend on the fire.

• Because the pizza is on the grill for such a short time, vegetables, shrimp, chicken, meat and any other shredded toppings must be precooked.

• On a floured board, roll one portion of your favorite homemade or store-bought pizza dough into a 10-inch circle about 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick.

• Carry the dough to the grill and carefully slide it onto the rack. Within 1 to 2 minutes, grill marks will appear on the underside of the crust as it starts to puff up and become firm. At this point, use tongs to turn the crust.

• Add the toppings. Cook 1 to 2 minutes more or until the cheese is melted and the dough is cooked through. Check to make sure the underside is not burning.

• Place on a wooden board and cut into wedges. Serve immediately.

For more home-and-family tips, contact Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at 586-3242.

Security Landscaping

2010-04-23T11:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Trim your chances of being burglarized by landscaping for security.

Well-designed landscaping can prevent thieves from entering your property.

· Consider surrounding your yard with a hard-to-climb fence. This can help keep children and pets in and bad guys out.

· A hedge of dense shrubs or a row of thorny bushes, such as roses, placed under windows will deter thieves.

· Surrounding flowerbeds and shrubs with rock mulches creates a slippery, loud entrance predators prefer to avoid.

Another crucial element of landscaping for security is knowing what not to plant.

· Don't plant trees so near to the house that they provide easy access to the second story.

· Avoid creating a tangle of shrubs near a door that could provide a lurking place for thieves.

· Keep shrubs trimmed short or plant perennials there instead.

· Make sure you have not forgotten about the back entry — many thieves look there first. If there's no convenient hiding place, thieves will generally look for an easier target down the street.

Lighting is also an extremely effective way to deter a would-be burglar.

· The main area of the yard should be lighted with metal halide or mercury lights.

· If possible, light bulbs should be positioned too high for an intruder to unscrew or break.

· Floodlights are an effective way to highlight shadowy areas — such as recessed windows or doors.

Careful landscaping will make your home less attractive to burglars and more attractive to you.

For more tips on home safety and security, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Home Away From Home

2010-03-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Before purchasing or building a vacation home, make sure you do your homework. Finding a picture-perfect setting for future getaways is possible, but it takes a lot of planning and research.

As you're evaluating vacation property, use these four tests:

1. Does the community have the amenities, climate, recreational and cultural activities you enjoy?
2. Does it promise years of enjoyable living without unexpected changes in the character of the community or neighborhood?
3. Are there physical or legal restrictions to stop construction of the home?
4. Does it have a special character that will make you want to spend your valuable vacation time in the same place each year?

If you're building, assess what it will take to put a house on the site and what regulations you'll have to abide by. Ask the local planning office about zoning, building restrictions and any environmental permits required. Also, look for private restrictions attached to the property deed.

Consult professionals to find out about drainage, water sources, soil conditions, utilities, road access, floods, geological hazards, and fire and police protection.

Visit many locations in different seasons. Explore the area — check out medical facilities and talk to neighbors. You may even want to have different areas' local newspapers mailed to your home. You'll also want to evaluate the economic future of the area and how its growth rate and tax structure will affect you into the future.

For more information on choosing a vacation home, contact Sugar Pine Realty GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Spring Cleaning

2010-02-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Whether you're planning to move or just want to organize your household, now is a good time to "weed out" unwanted items.

As a rule of thumb, discard anything you haven't used in 12 months, especially clothing you don't wear or items your children have outgrown.

Throw away broken-down, worn-out items.
• Get rid of old magazines by offering them to a hospital, school, nursing home, or daycare center.
• Recycle newspapers or use them for lighting fires or covering things while painting or cleaning.
• Dispose of all expired medications by pouring them down the toilet.
• Call a local recycling center if you have paints, chemicals, or other toxic materials to dispose.

Items that are in good, clean condition—clothing, furniture, accessories, appliances—can be sold at a garage sale or donated to a charity. Some agencies will even pick up donated materials.

For more househole tips, contact Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate, at (209) 586-3242.

Scentsational Herbs

2010-01-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Add spice to your garden's scenery. With a myriad of colors and textures, herbs are always good ornamental company for flowers and vegetables.

Among the most care-free plants, herbs just need a little attention to keep them growing vigorously and looking their best.

• Give herbs a soil customized to their needs. Condition the soil with compost and manure before planting to give a solid foundation. A non-acidic soil rich in lime grows the best herbs. You can add lime or crushed shells as well as wood ash or small doses of bone meal to boost alkalinity. For thin or poorly drained soils, use raised beds.

• Herbs for shady northern exposures with moist soil and strong indirect light include cilantro, dill, fennel, mint and parsley. Shrubby aromatic perennial herbs like sage, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, winter savory and thyme demand sunlight. Basil, chives, horseradish, tarragon, sorrel and lovage need only a few hours of sun.

• Decorative herbs mingle well in the moderately rich soil of a flower garden. Plant purple leaf basil, sages, chives, tarragon, lemon balm and mints to fill in the foreground. Invite tall, statuesque fennel and lovage to dance in the breeze alongside delphiniums, peonies, poppies and roses.

• Herbs such as cilantro and sweet marjoram rely on rich, organic soil and plenty of moisture — conditions compatible with vegetable gardening. The right herb paired with vegetables can ward off pests or provide soil nutrients. Perfect partners include basil and tomatoes; summer savory and beans; garlic, leeks or onions and dill.

For more gardening tips, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Housecleaning in Record Time

2009-12-31T11:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Cleaning — really cleaning — your entire house was once a springtime ritual. Now laborsaving equipment and products make it easier to clean year-round. Regular as-needed cleaning is the best method because it's the most efficient. Saving jobs for one big binge in the spring or fall takes more time in the long run.

Following these daily and weekly clean-up guides will help keep your home in tip-top shape year round.

Daily
· Clean up clutter as you go and wipe up spills as they happen.
· Encourage family members to pick up, hang up, put away and clean up after themselves.
· Wipe sinks after every use and clean the shower or tub.
· Load the dishwasher as soon as possible, or put dishes in the sink to soak until you can wash them.
· Get rid of rubbish. Place a trash compactor in the kitchen near recycling bins or in the garage to save on trips to the curb and reduce the volume in landfills.

Weekly
· Clean your own way, but do it regularly.
· Your schedule should include dusting and vacuuming of walls and woodwork.
· Wipe door jambs with a detergent solution, dust windowsills and remove fingerprints with a spray cleaner.
· While vacuuming, clean up any spots and stains you may see on the carpet.
· Use a disinfectant in the kitchen and bathroom.
· Try to clean one large appliance and one out-of-sight storage area once a month.

For more home-and-family tips, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Growing Up Gardening

2009-11-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowner,

Gardening helps to teach children responsibility, respect, self-assurance and love of nature — but most importantly, it lets kids have fun digging in the dirt! Here's how to capture their interests and lure them into gardening.

Toddlers
Design the garden so it can't hurt exploring toddlers and so they can't hurt it. Smooth gravel paths help teach them where it is and is not okay to walk. Bite your tongue and let toddlers touch, smell, rip, tromp and otherwise experience the garden.

Ages 6 to 12
Use the garden to stimulate physical and intellectual abilities during this growth stage. Give a budding artist a book about Monet or a young scientist a microscope. Look for ways the garden can be used in school projects.

Adolescents
The child who once loved gardening may now hate it. If a teenager doesn't want to garden, don't push it. If they have a garden of their own and want to make unusual decisions with it, respect their opinions. Some slack given at this stage will help them enjoy the activity as adults.

Theme Gardens
To spark interest, try planting a theme garden. Some examples are a rainbow garden; a pizza garden with tomatoes and herbs planted in a circle; or a pet garden to raise parsley for hamsters, corn to dry for squirrels or catnip to entice the family cat.

As children's gardens grow, nature not only bewilders them with the cycle-of-life, but sets their imaginations to work.

For more gardening tips, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

The Ins and Outs of ARMs

2009-10-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

There are many options currently available for financing a home. One of these is an adjustable-rate mortgage or ARM. This type of mortgage offers a lower interest rate at the beginning than a comparable fixed-rate mortgage. The potential drawback is the rate can change your payment according to economic conditions. These loans generally require a 10 percent down payment, but some go as low as 5 percent.

There are many ARMs available, but all contain these components:
• Initial interest rate: Usually about 2 to 3 percent lower than a similar fixed-rate mortgage.
• Adjustment interval: The time between changes in the mortgage's interest rate. Typical intervals are one year, three years and five years.
• Index: The economic indicator or indicators used to determine changes in the ARM interest rate.
• Margin: The additional amount the lender adds to the index to set the ARM's actual interest rate.
• Cap: A safeguard that limits the risk of sharply higher payments. For example, it can limit the amount the interest rate can change at each adjustment or set the upper limit of the interest rate.

Another type of mortgage has a convertible adjustable rate. This is an ARM with an option that allows conversion to a fixed-rate mortgage after a certain period. It offers the lower initial interest rate of a standard ARM with the possibility of locking in more predictable payments later.

For more tips on purchasing a home, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242

Passive Cooling

2009-09-04T10:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

There's more than one way to be cool. It's easy to head straight for the air conditioner on sizzling days and steamy nights, but sometimes low-tech, low-cost options can do the trick. Consider these non-mechanical options for beating the heat:

Landscaping
Deciduous trees on your home's south and west sides provide summer shade, but still lose their leaves to allow low winter sun to reach windows.

Block direct rays
Awnings, roof overhangs and exterior shades help reduce interior temperatures by absorbing solar radiation before it hits your windows.

Cook early and late
Household appliances such as washers, driers, ranges and ovens generate heat and humidity inside a house. By using these appliances in the morning and evening when it's cooler, you can help keep operating costs down.

Windows
Double or triple-pane windows slow the transfer of warm air, and some window glazings can actually bounce heat back. Take advantage of summer breezes too. Bring in air through a small opening on the windy side of the house and pull airflow to a large window or door on the other side.

Insulation
Once you've generated cooler air inside the house, keep it there as long as possible. Insulate attic floors to keep the hot upper air at bay. Find the places where air sneaks in and out of your home and plug them up with caulk or weather-stripping.

For more energy-saving tips, or other home advice, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Fans Circulate Savings

2009-08-18T13:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

• Ceiling fans do more than just add a decorative touch to your home. They can also subtract from the bottom line of your energy bills.

• In summer, a cool breeze generated by a fan can save on air-conditioning costs. In winter, most fan blades can be reversed to circulate down warm air that would otherwise be trapped at ceiling level. This will help you feel warmer and allow you to turn the heat down.

• Ceiling fans usually have either a direct-drive motor or a friction drive motor. Direct-drive motors have fewer moving parts, run more quietly and are more efficient than friction-drive motors —unfortunately they are also more expensive.

• Most fans have one to three speeds. Running a fan at its slowest speed is still effective at circulating the air — without whipping up a breeze.

• Pull-chain or wall switches control the operation and speed of most fans. Some models also have a switch that reverses the direction of the blades. When the blades are reversed, air flows up toward the ceiling and down the walls, eliminating drafts.

• A fan with a 36- or 38-inch blade span is adequate for a room measuring 10x10 feet or less. Larger rooms may require fans as large as 54 inches in diameter.

• Most fans hang down between 12 and 24 inches from the ceiling. For physical safety and psychological comfort, be sure the blade of the fan is at least seven feet above the floor.

For more energy-saving tips, or other home improvement suggestions, call Sugar Pine GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Say It With Flowers

2009-07-14T13:17:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowner,

Garden flowers can do more than just brighten your landscape — they can also brighten your home.

Arrangements of garden flowers don't have to be elaborate. The simple beauty of a single rose or peony blossom floating in a clear bowl can be an attractive centerpiece.

When combining different species, look for variety in flower form, size and texture. This can be a mix of spike-flowers; round, daisy-like flowers and dainty fillers like baby's-breath.

Arrange your garden flowers in clean containers or vases that will complement the flowers, without being overbearing. You do not want a container to compete with the flowers for attention.

Always use clean water for arrangements. If flowers are displayed in vases, it's a good idea to change the water daily to prevent early wilting and browning.

Display your vases or arrangements of garden flowers in a cool location and out of direct sunlight and drafts.

For more home decorating ideas, call Sugar Pine Realty GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

Home Owner Tip #1: Keeping Cool

2009-07-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

There's more than one way to be cool. It's easy to head straight for the air conditioner on sizzling days and steamy nights, but sometimes low-tech, low-cost options can do the trick. Consider these non-mechanical options for beating the heat:

Landscaping
Deciduous trees on your home's south and west sides provide summer shade, but still lose their leaves to allow low winter sun to reach windows.

Block direct rays
Awnings, roof overhangs and exterior shades help reduce interior temperatures by absorbing solar radiation before it hits your windows.

Cook early and late
Household appliances such as washers, driers, ranges and ovens generate heat and humidity inside a house. By using these appliances in the morning and evening when it's cooler, you can help keep operating costs down.

Windows
Double or triple-pane windows slow the transfer of warm air, and some window glazings can actually bounce heat back. Take advantage of summer breezes, too. Bring in air through a small opening on the windy side of the house and pull airflow to a large window or door on the other side.

Insulation
Once you've generated cooler air inside the house, keep it there as long as possible. Insulate attic floors to keep the hot upper air at bay. Find the places where air sneaks in and out of your home and plug them up with caulk or weather-stripping.

For more energy-saving tips, or other home advice, call Val Ogletree GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.

End of April Market Stats

2008-05-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

Sugar Pine Realty endeavors to provide timely and relevant info and statistics on the real estate market in the Mother Lode. Today we have the final numbers for April 2008 (as of 9:00 this morning). We also have the year-to-year comparison for the first four months of 2008 versus the first four months of 2007. The data used comes from the Tuolumne Multiple Listing Service and is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. A couple of quick observations: (1) We're looking for the bottom in the market. It seems we can't be too far away with the further steep downturn in April residential sales as an example: 26 sold, a 50% decrease over April 2007; $13,547,950 volume sold, a 63% decrease over April 2007; (2) The average sale price of residential property for the first four months of 2008 is: $317,827 versus last year for the same period: $366,212. That's a 13% decrease.

Easter Egg Hunt Cancelled

2008-02-07T11:19:00.000-08:00

Easter is early this year and due to the weather we have decided to cancel the Egg Hunt. I have taken this up with the Homeowners Association and we are in agreement with this. Easter comes on March 23rd and we have tons of snow in Mi Wuk Village. We will look at doing the Easter Egg Hunt again next year. Val O.

The Numbers for Twain Harte and Mi Wuk

2008-01-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

Here are the final stats (click on the chart below) for residential property sales in 2007 in Twain Harte and Mi Wuk Village (quantity sold, volume sold and average sale price). The data used comes from our own Tuolumne Multiple Listing Service and is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. You'll also notice the numbers for 2006 for comparison. The good news is, though the Mi Wuk market area was down, the Twain Harte market area pretty much stayed the same in quantity and volume sold and average sale price in 2007 versus 2006. Don't hesitate to contact Val O should you have any questions about the market in 2008! Visit Val's website by CLICKING HERE.

The Launch of Realty Queen

2007-10-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

(Val will be writing her first blog post shortly. Check back soon.)