September 01, 2010

End of Summer Celebrations

Posted to Jennifer Hamilton

September is a month of celebration on the Central Coast. As summer comes to a close we are blessed with beautiful weather and lots fun events to enjoy. If you are planning a trip over to the coast this upcoming Labor Day weekend or anytime in the month of September check out some of these events happening around the county.

Sept. 2nd: Avila Beach Music Festival: Presenting ZZ Top
 Location: Avila Beach

Sept. 4th-6th: Pinedorado Days Festival & Parade
 Location: Cambria

Sept. 4th-6th: Art in the Park
 Location: Morro Bay

Sept. 5th: Pops a la Playa! (Pops by the Sea)
 Location: Avila Beach

Sept. 10th-12th: 15th Ever Creston Classic Rodeo
 Location: Creston

Sept. 11th-12th: I Madonnari Chalk Festival
 Location: San Luis Obispo

Sept. 18th: Avocado and Margarita Festival
 Location: Morro Bay

Sept. 24th-25th: Arroyo Grande Valley Harvest Festival
 Location: Arroyo Grande

Sept. 30th- 10/3: Savor the Central Coast: Presented by Sunset Magazine
Location: County Wide

Also don’t forget the entire month of September is California Wine Month! There will be many wineries and restaurants throughout the county offering special tasting to celebrate. Click Here for more information. We hope you get a chance to take part all the great events going on this month. As always we hope to see you enjoying the SLO life!

Posted by:  Jennifer Hamilton



August 30, 2010

Googles Favorite Place

Posted to Larry Smyth

You know, we always try to put our best foot forward when it comes to marketing. Now that we are fully engulfed with internet market we face a whole new challenge. Due to the dynamics of the internet, our marketing program has to be ever changing. We are on constant alert for the best ways to market our company Farrell Smyth, and equally important to market our client’s properties, both for sale and for rent. So we were pleasantly surprised, when unsolicited, we receive notice that we have been named a “Favorite Place on Google.”

The recognition from Google came due to the high volume of traffic that came to our web site. During a two month period we had 7,434 unique visitors to our site from Google, and 926 of those visitors requested driving directions to our office. As a result, we now have a business listing as a “Favorite Place on Google,” on Google, and a pin on Google Maps locating our office. We are proud that our efforts have paid off in the rapidly changing world of the internet. You might want to take a look at our web site to see why we are attracting so many visitors. www.farrellsmyth.com.

Your questions and comments are always welcome.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



August 24, 2010

Opportunity May Be Knocking

Posted to Buyers, Larry Smyth

Today, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that sales for existing single family homes fell by 27% during the month of July. In our local area, we can confirm this by looking at the “24 Hour Market Watch” on our Multiple Listing Service which covers all of San Luis Obispo County and Northern Santa Barbara County. During the last 24 hours we have added 35 new listings, while selling only 21 listings. So it looks like our inventory is on the rise. This has been the case on almost a daily basis for a long time. In addition, during the same 24 hour period we have had 42 price reductions. Just what you would expect as the inventory grows.

Wow, this doesn’t sound too great, but this may not be all bad news. Opportunity may be knocking. With slower sales, increasing inventory, and price reductions, this could be a great time to purchase. Interest rates remain at historical lows, with 30-year fixed rates below 4.5%. Larger inventory means more choices for buyers. Price reductions mean that sellers are more willing than ever to negotiate price and terms. To paraphrase the Honda commercial, Mr. Opportunity may be here knocking on your door.

Your Questions and comments are always welcome.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



August 24, 2010

e-PRO: An Advanced Designation to Help Provide the Best Services to Our Clients

Posted to Buyers, Homeowner Associations, Larry Smyth, Owners, Press Releases, Property Management, Real Estate Sales, Relocation, Rentals, Sellers, Tenants

We all know how the real estate industry has been changed with the advancement of the electronic age. We have all had to learn new technologies beginning with e-mail, and continuing with social media sites, web sites, and even Blogs like the one you are reading. As a long-time Real Estate Broker, I long ago recognized the importance of these changes. As a result, our company, Farrell Smyth, has made every effort to keep up with consumer demand for up-to-date electronic communications and information. As a part of our effort, I have recently completed the course to earn my e-PRO designation.

The e-PRO designation course is designed to train real estate professionals in the latest internet technologies to best serve our customers’ needs. Only 4% of all Realtors across the country have earned the e-PRO designation. So we are proud of our efforts to provide the best technology we can.

You already know about our Blog, but we want to tell you about another program we are just beginning. Constant Contact is our new marketing program. While our Blog will continue to provide general real estate information and updates on current market trends, Constant Contact will be strictly our marketing arm. We will provide information on new listings, price changes, open houses, and other cool stuff. Initially we will market to our current data base. Customers will be able to opt out if they wish, and rejoin at any time. If you would like to be added to our data base feel free to contact us, or in the near future you will be able to sign up on our web site home page at www.farrellsmyth.com. We continue to provide you with the most up to date information from the Central California Coast and beyond.

As always, your comments and questions are welcome.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



August 17, 2010

Credit Suisse Survey

Posted to Buyers, Jennifer Hamilton, Real Estate Sales, Sellers

Each month I am asked to participate in a survey for Credit Suisse. Credit Suisse is an independent company that does market research for financial markets and real estate markets. In their July report, Credit Suisse evaluated three components in the real estate market. Traffic in the market by sales, downward pressure on pricing, and incentives in the market such as buyers credits. The Survey is done on a nationwide bases, then broken down to show trends in key real estate markets throughout the nation. In general, the conclusion for July is that, almost without exception, the traffic in the real estate market went down. In addition, the downward pressure on pricing continues as inventory increases, and incentives have all but dried up.

The major areas in California that are included in the survey are Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego, Sacramento, and San Francisco. Click here to read the complete survey which I found very interesting. Take a look at what is going on across the nation. California is not the only state feeling the pinch.

As always, your comments and questions are welcome.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



August 12, 2010

10 worst Cities

Posted to Buyers, Larry Smyth, Sellers

Aren’t We The Lucky Ones? We are unless you happen to live in one the ten worst rated cities in the United States.

The List begins in California, and ends in Florida with plenty of stops in between. The main criteria seems to be the economic conditions of each city which includes unemployment, and weak housing. As you would suspect these two items go hand in hand. Other factors include weather, crime, and pollution.

Here is the list of the worst along with a link to the full survey. If you happen to live in one of these cities, all I can say is you have my condolences.

1. El Centro, California

2. Cleveland, Ohio

3. Detroit, Michigan

4. Las Vegas Nevada

5. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

6. Los Angeles, California

7. Phoenix, Arizona

8. Newark, New Jersey

9. Miami, Florida

10. Memphis, Tennessee

While we have all been hit to some degree by the housing downturn, these 10 cities have really suffered.  As always we welcome your comments.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



August 03, 2010

San Luis Obiso Homes Right Here

Posted to Jennifer Hamilton

August has arrived! 

August is the last month to pack up your family and friends for a get away to the beaches before school starts up again. Here are just a few of the great events happening around the county this month:

Aug 6th, 13th, Concerts in the Plaza Location: San Luis Obispo
20th & 27th More Info: http://www.downtownslo.com/

August 7th Wine Makers Cook off Location: Paso Robles
More Info: http://www.winemakerscookoff.com/

August 8th Central Coast Chili Challenge Location: Arroyo Grande
More Info: http://www.centralcoastshakespeare.org/

August 13th-14th Performing Arts Center Presents: Jumpbrush Dance Festival Location: San Luis Obispo
More Info: http://www.pacslo.org/events/

August 21st 7th Annual Olive Festival Location: Paso Robles
More Info: http://www.pasoroblesolivefestival.com/

August 21st Mid State Cruizers Car Show Location: Atascadero
More Info: http://www.midstatecruizers.org/

August 28th-29th Stone Soup Music Faire Location: Grover Beach
More Info: http://www.grover.org/6week.htm#soup

 

There are always fun things to do and see all around San Luis Obispo County. With average highs of only 76° in San Luis Obispo, there is no better place to beat the August heat. We invite you to take part and explore what this beautiful county has to offer. Hope to see you around!

Posted by:  Jennifer Hamilton



July 29, 2010

It’s All In The Numbers….or Is It?

Posted to Larry Smyth, Real Estate Sales, Sellers

It seems like every day when we pick up the paper or read your daily on line news, there is some article about prices of homes going up, and another article about prices going down. So which is it…Up or Down? Well like the old adage goes, you can make the numbers say whatever you want. So let’s take a look at possibly the most misleading set of numbers in the real estate industry when it comes to establishing true value of homes.

The culprit is the “Mean” housing value. The mean value is not the average selling price although many writers and news shows use the terms as if they are the same. Further the mean value has nothing to do with the value of individual homes. The mean value only shows the price at which most of the homes sales are occurring at a given time. For example, in a given market area, most sales may be occurring at say $300,000 in a given month. The next month, most sales may be in the $310,000 range. Right away reports go out that prices have gone up 3%. Not really. At the same time a specific home in the same market may sell for $300,000 one month and sell for $295,000 the next month, an actual decline of 2%. When you start comparing over longer periods like year to year, the variation can be even greater. So when you get ready to search for that new home, or sell your old home, and you want to know what the current market trend looks like what should you do? First, look at the specifics of your local market. How long are homes on the market before selling, what is the difference between the asking and selling prices, and finally be sure to compare apples to apples, that is be realistic and only compare homes similar to the home you may want to purchase or the home you want to sell. Your local professional real estate broker can help you sort this out so you purchase and sell at the true market value and not waste you time going through the frustration of chasing the numbers. If you are moving to a new area it becomes even more important to sort through the numbers game. Before you make your move ask your local broker for a referral to your new area. Some brokers, such as Farrell Smyth, specialize in relocation, and are an excellent starting point. In any case the bottom line is know your numbers.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



July 19, 2010

Caveat Emptor - Finding a rental safely and securely

Posted to Larry Smyth, Property Management, Tenants

We have all heard the term Caveat Emptor, or Buyer Beware. Well, how about Renter Beware. The internet has given us all access to unlimited information. In addition we have access to misinformation, deceptive information and down right dishonest information. Herein lies the problem.

In recent times we have seen Scammers glean information on properties that are either for sale or rent, reformat the information and place it on various lists and web sites as a property for rent. Unsuspecting renters are asked to just “Drive by the property, and if you like it, send me a deposit.” Contacts are usually by e-mail, text, or even phone. You never really meet the scammer. The usual excuse is something like, “I am on a sabbatical,” or “I had a sudden job transfer and can’t be back in town.” Once that deposit check is in the mail the scammer is long gone and the renter is out of luck.

What can you do to protect yourself from this type of scammer? If you are looking to rent in your local area, you can go to a local reputable Real Estate or Property Management firm. They can provide you with rental listings and help you through the application process. If you are dealing with an individual owner, you should always meet them face to face. Ideally, meet the owner at the property and be sure they have keys for the unit. Be very wary of an owner who is too anxious to get your deposit “on the spot” with no application process.

If you are moving to a new area and need to find a rental, before you head out, go to a Real Estate or Property Management company in your area and ask for a referral to your new area. Many companies have built relationships with other companies over the years or belong to a referral network that specializes in relocation. This will allow you to not only find a rental in your new city, but you can also get lots of information about the area before you go. You can get information on transportation, schools, hospitals, etc. Take advantage of the professionals in your area to help guide you through the maze.

As always, if you have any questions feel free to contact us.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



July 14, 2010

Farrell Smyth, Inc. Earns Website Quality Certification - Designation signifies excellence in corporate website

Posted to Jennifer Hamilton, Press Releases

San Luis Obispo, CA – 7/14/10 – Farrell Smyth has earned the Website Quality Certification (WQC), presented by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® to member companies that have demonstrated excellence in website design, functionality and execution.

Every aspect of the site, www.farrellsmyth.com, was reviewed to ensure exacting standards were met in eight key areas, ranging from design and content to human interactivity to search engine optimization. The WQC was introduced in 2009 to recognize and encourage superior websites among Leading Real Estate Companies of the World’s 600 member firms. Farrell Smyth is one of 64 initial applicants to earn the designation.

“A real estate company’s website plays an increasingly significant role with today’s consumers, who often go there first when considering buying or selling a home. It is thus critical to use this Internet medium to attract and engage consumers in a meaningful way,” said Pam O’Connor, president/CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.

For more information about Farrell Smyth, Inc. please visit www.farrellsmyth.com.

Posted by:  Jennifer Hamilton



July 11, 2010

Introduction

Posted to Larry Smyth, Real Estate Sales

In our real estate sales section we will be posting general information regarding real estate sales. We will also post to two sub categories with specific information for Buyers and specific information for Sellers. Be sure to check here often for general or specific information if you are a Buyer or Seller.

As always if you have any questions or would like to see a new topic covered, feel free to give us a shout.

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



July 09, 2010

What’s Happening in July in San Luis Obispo, California

Posted to Area Attractions & Events , Jennifer Hamilton

The fourth of July fireworks have come and gone but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty of exciting things to do and see around San Luis Obispo County this month. Here are a few of the highlights:

July 8th – July 11th Twenty-Sixth Annual Central Coast Wine Classic Location: SLO County
More Info: http://www.centralcoastwineclassic.org/

July 9th – Aug 15th Annual Central Coast Shakespeare Festival Location: Paso Robles
More Info: http://www.centralcoastshakespeare.org/

July 15th – July 25th Festival Mosaic: Summer Festival Location: San Luis Obispo
More Info: http://www.festivalmozaic.com/

July 22nd – Aug 1st California Mid-State Fair Location: Paso Robles
More Info: http://www.midstatefair.com/

July 30th - 31st Arroyo Valley Cruise & Car Show Location: Arroyo Grande
More Info: Downtown AG on Grand Ave, Cruise 7/30 from 6:30 – 8:30, Car show 7/31 from 10 AM – 4 PM

Also be sure to take some time to enjoy one of the many ongoing farmers’ markets around San Luis Obispo County:


  • Arroyo Grande - Saturday, Noon – 2:30
  • Avila Beach - Friday, 4:00 – 8:00
  • Cambria - Friday, 2:30 – 5:00
  • Cayucos - Friday, 10:00 – 12:30
  • Downtown SLO - Thursday, 6:00 – 9:00
  • Morro Bay - Thursday, 2:30 – 5:00
  • Nipomo - Sunday, 11:30 – 2:30
  • Paso Robles - Friday & Sat, 9:00 – 1:00
  • Pismo Beach - Saturday, 10:00 – 1:00
  • San Luis Obispo - Saturday, 8:00 – 10:30
  • Templeton - Saturday, 9:00 – 12:30

Posted by:  Jennifer Hamilton



July 07, 2010

Introduction - Welcome to SanLuisObispoHomesRightHere.com

Posted to Larry Smyth

Well here we go. This is the first installment in what we feel will be a very informative blog site for Farrell Smyth. While the name of our site is SanLuisObispoHomesRightHere.com, our blog will have much more than just information on homes. You can access the site direct or connect through the Farrell Smyth Web Site, FarrellSmyth.com. If you take a look at the various categories on the site, you will see that we will have information on Real Estate, Buyers information and Sellers information. We will have information on Property Management, with Owner information, and Tenant information. In addition we will have Community information with information on events and happenings around San Luis Obispo County, and finally we will have a Press Release section so you can keep up with the goings-on at Farrell Smyth.

We hope that you will take time to check the various topics, and if you have any questions or would like to see topics added, feel free to let us know. Also, if you have an event you would like to promote, let us know and we can put it in the Community section.

Thanks for taking the time to come to the new Farrell Smyth blog site…

Posted by:  Larry Smyth



June 28, 2010

Beautiful San Luis Obispo, California

Posted to

San Luis Obispo, CA is located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, in the heart of the state’s central coast where you will find miles of white, sandy beaches. This area includes tree-lined streets, an enjoyable shopping area, unique hotels and its downtown area includes a collection of stores, outdoor cafes, coffee houses and galleries.

There is plenty to do in San Luis Obispo for residents and visitors. The city has several golf courses and cultural events throughout the year. Each Thursday, Higuera Street offers a farmers’ market where you can get fresh fruits and vegetables. There are also several wineries along Highway 227.

San Luis Obispo, California is a wonderful city for everyone to enjoy.