These days, it seems like everyone’s looking for ways to cut costs and stretch their income further. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your household expenses without making radical changes to your standard of living. When combined, these small adjustments can add up to significant savings each month.

Here are 20 things you can start doing today to lower your bills, secure better deals, and begin working toward your financial goals.

Refinance Your Mortgage - For prime borrowers, mortgage rates are at or near historic lows. Depending on your current mortgage rate and the terms you choose, refinancing could save you a sizable amount on your monthly payments. There are fees and closing costs associated with refinancing, so you’ll need to talk to your lender to find out if refinancing is a good option for you.

Evaluate Your Insurance Policies - If it’s been a while since you priced home or auto insurance, it may be worthwhile to do some comparison shopping. Get quotes from at least three insurers or independent agents. Try bundling your policies to see if there’s a discount. And inquire about raising your deductible, which should lower your premium.1

Bundle Cable, Phone, and Internet - You can also save money by bundling your cable, phone, and internet services together. Shop around to see who is willing to give you the best deal. If switching is too much of a hassle, ask your current provider to match or beat their competitor’s offer.

Better Yet, Cut the Cord on Cable - In many cases, you can save even more if you cancel your cable subscription altogether. An antenna should give you access to the major stations, and many of your favorite shows are probably available on-demand through a less expensive streaming service subscription.

Revisit Your Wireless Plan - You can often save by switching from a big brand to an independent, low-cost carrier. If that’s not feasible, ask your current provider for a better deal or consider downgrading to a cheaper plan.

Adjust Your Thermostat - Turning your thermostat up or down a few degrees can have a noticeable impact on your monthly heating and cooling costs. To maximize efficiency, change your filters regularly, and make sure your windows and doors are well insulated.

Use Less Hot Water - After heating and cooling, hot water accounts for the second largest energy expense in most homes.2 To cut back, repair any leaks or dripping faucets, install low-flow fixtures, only run your dishwasher when full, and wash clothes in cold water when possible.

Lower Overall Water Consumption - To decrease your water usage, take shorter showers, and turn off the sink while you brush your teeth and wash your hands. If you don’t have a low-flow toilet, retrofit your current one with a toilet tank bank or fill cycle diverter. And irrigate your lawn in the morning or evening to minimize evaporation.3

Conserve Electricity - Save electricity by shutting off your computer at night and installing energy-efficient LED light bulbs. You can minimize standby or “vampire” power drain by utilizing power strips and unplugging idle appliances.4

Purchase a Home Warranty - While there is an upfront cost, a home warranty can provide some protection and peace of mind when it comes to unexpected home repair costs. Most plans provide coverage for major systems (like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC) and appliances (such as your dishwasher, stove, or refrigerator).

Outsource Less - From lawn care to grocery shopping to minor home repairs, we pay people to do a lot of things our parents and grandparents did themselves. To save money, try cutting back on the frequency of these services or taking some of them on yourself.

Prepare Your Own Meals - It costs nearly five times more to have a meal delivered than it does to cook it at home.5 And home cooking doesn’t just save money; it’s healthier, cuts down on calorie consumption, and can offer a fun activity for families to do together.

Plan Your Menu in Advance - Meal planning is deciding before you shop what you and your family will eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It can help you lower your overall food bill, eliminate waste, and minimize impulse purchases. When possible, buy produce that is in season, and utilize nutrient-rich but inexpensive protein sources like eggs, beans, ground turkey, and canned tuna.

Plant a Garden - You can save even more on produce by growing it yourself. If you have space in your yard, start-up costs are relatively minimal. Gardening can be a rewarding and enjoyable (not to mention delicious) hobby for the whole family. And it could save you around $600 per year at the grocery store!6

Review Memberships and Subscriptions - Are you paying for services and subscriptions you no longer need, want, or can utilize? Determine if there are any that you should suspend or cancel.

Give Homemade Gifts - Who wouldn’t appreciate a scratch birthday cake or tin of cookies? And if you enjoy crafting, Pinterest and Instagram are full of inspiring ideas. Show your recipient how much you care with a homemade gift from the heart.

Minimize Your Debt Payments - The best way to reduce a debt payment is to pay down the balance. But if that’s not an option right now, try to negotiate a better interest rate. If you have a good credit score, you may be able to qualify for a balance transfer to a 0% or low-interest rate credit card. Keep in mind, the rate may expire after a certain period—so be sure to read the fine print.

Get a Cash-back Credit Card - If you regularly pay your credit card balance in full, a cash-back credit card can be a good way to earn a little money back each month. However, they often come with high-interest rates and fees if you carry a balance. Commit to only using it for purchases you can afford.

Ask for Deals and Discounts - It may feel awkward at first, but becoming a master haggler can save you a lot of money. Many companies are willing to negotiate under the right circumstances. Always inquire about special promotions or incentives. See if they are able to price match (or beat) their competitors. And if an item is slightly defective or nearing its expiration date, ask for a discount.

Track Your Household Budget - One of the most effective ways to reduce household expenses is to set a budget—and stick to it. A budget can help you see where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back. By setting reasonable limits, you’ll be able to reach your financial goals faster.


Want more help getting a handle on your finances? Use the budget worksheet below to track income and expenses—and start working towards your financial goals today! Please reach out to me for a downloadable version.


WE’RE HERE TO HELP
We would love to help you meet your financial goals. Whether you want to refinance your mortgage, save up for a down payment, or simply find lower-cost alternatives for home repairs, maintenance, or utilities, we are happy to provide our insights and referrals. And if you have plans to buy or sell a home this year, we can discuss the steps you should be taking to financially prepare. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!


The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult a financial professional for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

Insurance Information Institute -
https://www.iii.org/article/twelve-ways-to-lower-your-homeowners-insurance-costs
Department of Energy -
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/reduce-hot-water-use-energy-savings
Money Crashers -
https://www.moneycrashers.com/ways-conserve-water/
Harvard University -
https://green.harvard.edu/tools-resources/poster/top-5-steps-reduce-your-energy-consumption
Forbes -
https://www.forbes.com/sites/priceonomics/2018/07/10/heres-how-much-money-do-you-save-by-cooking-at-home/#2c53b2f35e54
Money -
https://money.com/gardening-grocery-savings/

Take Advantage of Your Home Equity: A Homeowner’s Guide


Homeownership offers many advantages over renting, including a stable living environment, predictable monthly payments, and the freedom to make modifications. Neighborhoods with high rates of homeownership have less crime and more civic engagement. Additionally, studies show that homeowners are happier and healthier than renters, and their children do better in school.1

But one of the biggest perks of homeownership is the opportunity to build wealth over time. Researchers at the Urban Institute found that homeownership is financially beneficial for most families,2 and a recent study showed that the median net worth of homeowners can be up to 80 times greater than that of renters in some areas.3

So how does purchasing a home help you build wealth? And what steps should you take to maximize the potential of your investment? Find out how to harness the power of home equity for a secure financial future.


WHAT IS HOME EQUITY?

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and the amount you owe on your mortgage. So, for example, if your home would currently sell for $250,000, and the remaining balance on your mortgage is $200,000, then you have $50,000 in home equity.

$250,000 (Home’s Market Value)
-    $200,000 (Mortgage Balance)
______________________________
     $50,000 (Home Equity)

The equity in your home is considered a non-liquid asset. It’s your money; but rather than sitting in a bank account, it’s providing you with a place to live. And when you factor in the potential of appreciation, an investment in real estate will likely offer a better return than any savings account available today.


HOW DOES HOME EQUITY BUILD WEALTH?

A mortgage payment is a type of “forced savings” for home buyers. When you make a mortgage payment each month, a portion of the money goes towards interest on your loan, and the remaining part goes towards paying off your principal, or loan balance. That means the amount of money you owe the bank is reduced every month. As your loan balance goes down, your home equity goes up.

Additionally, unlike other assets that you borrow money to purchase, the value of your home generally increases, or appreciates, over time. For example, when you pay off your car loan after five or seven years, you will own it outright. But if you try to sell it, the car will be worth much less than when you bought it. However, when you purchase a home, its value typically rises over time. So when you sell it, not only will you have grown your equity through your monthly mortgage payments, but in most cases, your home’s market value will be higher than what you originally paid. And even if you only put down 10% at the time of purchase—or pay off just a small portion of your mortgage—you get to keep 100% of the property’s appreciated value. That’s the wealth-building power of real estate.


WHAT CAN I DO TO GROW MY HOME’S EQUITY FASTER?

Now that you understand the benefits of building equity, you may wonder how you can speed up your rate of growth. There are two basic ways to increase the equity in your home:

Pay down your mortgage.

We shared earlier that your home’s equity goes up as your mortgage balance goes down. So paying down your mortgage is one way to increase the equity in your home.

Some homeowners do this by adding a little extra to their payment each month, making one additional mortgage payment per year, or making a lump-sum payment when extra money becomes available—like an annual bonus, gift, or inheritance.

Before making any extra payments, however, be sure to check with your mortgage lender about the specific terms of your loan. Some mortgages have prepayment penalties. And it’s important to ensure that if you do make additional payments, the money will be applied to your loan principal.

Another option to pay off your mortgage faster is to decrease your amortization period. For example, if you can afford the larger monthly payments, you might consider refinancing from a 30-year or 25-year mortgage to a 15-year mortgage. Not only will you grow your home equity faster, but you could also save a bundle in interest over the life of your loan.

Raise your home’s market value.

Boosting the market value of your property is another way to grow your home equity. While many factors that contribute to your property’s appreciation are out of your control (e.g. demographic trends or the strength of the economy) there are things you can do to increase what it’s worth.

For example, many homeowners enjoy do-it-yourself projects that can add value at a relatively low cost. Others choose to invest in larger, strategic upgrades. Keep in mind, you won’t necessarily get back every dollar you invest in your home. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine’s latest Cost vs. Value Report, the remodeling project with the highest return on investment is a garage door replacement, which costs about $3600 and is expected to recoup 97.5% at resale. In contrast, an upscale kitchen remodel—which can cost around $130,000—averages less than a 60% return on investment.4

Of course, keeping up with routine maintenance is the most important thing you can do to protect your property’s value. Neglecting to maintain your home’s structure and systems could have a negative impact on its value—therefore reducing your home equity. So be sure to stay on top of recommended maintenance and repairs.


HOW DO I ACCESS MY HOME EQUITY IF I NEED IT?

When you put your money into a checking or savings account, it’s easy to make a withdrawal when needed. However, tapping into your home equity is a little more complicated.

The primary way homeowners access their equity is by selling their home. Many sellers will use their equity as a downpayment on a new home. Or some homeowners may choose to downsize and use the equity to supplement their income or retirement savings.

But what if you want to access the equity in your home while you’re still living in it? Maybe you want to finance a home renovation, consolidate debt, or pay for college. To do that, you will need to take out a loan using your home equity as collateral.

There are several ways to borrow against your home equity, depending on your needs and qualifications:5

Second Mortgage - A second mortgage, also known as a home equity loan, is structured similar to a primary mortgage. You borrow a lump-sum amount, which you are responsible for paying back—with interest—over a set period of time. Most second mortgages have a fixed interest rate and provide the borrower with a predictable monthly payment. Keep in mind, if you take out a home equity loan, you will be making monthly payments on both your primary and secondary mortgages, so budget accordingly.

Cash-Out Refinance - With a cash-out refinance, you refinance your primary mortgage for a higher amount than you currently owe. Then you pay off your original mortgage and keep the difference as cash. This option may be preferable to a second mortgage if you have a high interest rate on your current mortgage or prefer to make just one payment per month.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) - A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is a revolving line of credit, similar to a credit card. It allows you to draw out money as you need it instead of taking out a lump sum all at once. A HELOC may come with a checkbook or debit card to enable easy access to funds. You will only need to make payments on the amount of money that has been drawn. Similar to a credit card, the interest rate on a HELOC is variable, so your payment each month could change depending on how much you borrow and how interest rates fluctuate.

Reverse Mortgage - A reverse mortgage enables qualifying seniors to borrow against the equity in their home to supplement their retirement funds. In most cases, the loan (plus interest) doesn’t need to be repaid until the homeowners sell, move, or are deceased.6

Tapping into your home equity may be a good option for some homeowners, but it’s important to do your research first. In some cases, another type of loan or financing method may offer a lower interest rate or better terms to fit your needs. And it’s important to remember that defaulting on a home equity loan could result in foreclosure. Ask us for a referral to a lender or financial adviser to find out if a home equity loan is right for you.


WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU

Wherever you are in the equity-growing process, we can help. We work with buyers to find the perfect home to begin their wealth-building journey. We also offer free assistance to existing homeowners who want to know their home’s current market value to refinance or secure a home equity loan. And when you’re ready to sell, we can help you get top dollar to maximize your equity stake. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation!


The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult a financial professional for advice regarding your individual needs.


Sources:
National Association of Realtors -
https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/highlights-from-social-benefits-of-homeownership-and-stable-housing
Urban Institute - 
https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/homeownership-still-financially-better-renting
Census Bureau -
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/08/gaps-in-wealth-americans-by-household-type.html
Remodeling Magazine -
https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2019/
Investopedia -
https://www.investopedia.com/mortgage/heloc/home-equity/
Bankrate -
https://www.bankrate.com/mortgage/reverse-mortgage-guide/

#StayHome: How to Create Functional Spaces in Your Home 
During the Coronavirus Outbreak


Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many of us are spending a lot more time at home. We’re all being called upon to avoid public spaces and practice social distancing to help slow the spread of this infectious disease. While it can be understandably challenging, there are ways you can modify your home and your lifestyle to make the best of this difficult situation.

Here are a few tips for creating comfortable and functional spaces within your home for work, school, and fitness. We also share some of our favorite ways to stay connected as a community, because we’re all in this together … and no one should face these trying times alone.


Begin with the Basics

A basic home emergency preparedness kit is a great addition to any home, even under normal circumstances. It should include items like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, first aid kit, and other essentials you would need should you temporarily lose access to food, water, or electricity.

Fortunately, authorities don’t anticipate any serious interruptions to utilities or the food supply during this outbreak. However, it may be a good time to start gathering your emergency basics in a designated location, so you’ll be prepared now-—and in the future—should your family ever need them.




Working From Home

Many employees are being asked to work remotely. If you’re transitioning to a home office for the first time, it’s important to create a designated space for work … so it doesn’t creep into your home life, and vice versa. If you live in a small condominium or apartment, this may feel impossible. But try to find a quiet corner where you can set up a desk and comfortable chair. The simple act of separating your home and work spaces can help you focus during work hours and “turn off” at the end of the day.

Of course, if you have children who are home with you all day (given many schools and daycares are now closed), separating your home and work life will be more difficult. Unless you have a partner who can serve as the primary caregiver, you will need to help manage the needs of your children while juggling work and virtual meetings.

If both parents are working from home, try alternating shifts, so you each have a designated time to work and to parent. If that’s not an option, experts recommend creating a schedule for your children, so they know when you’re available to play, and when you need to work.1 A red stop sign on the door can help remind them when you shouldn’t be disturbed. And for young children, blocking off a specific time each day for them to nap or have independent screen time can give you a window to schedule conference calls or work uninterrupted.


Homeschooling Your Children

Many parents with school-aged children will be taking on a new challenge: homeschooling. Similar to a home office, designating a space for learning activities can help your child transition between play and school. If you’re working from home, the homeschooling area would ideally be located near your workspace, so you can offer assistance and answer questions, as needed.

If possible, dedicate a desk or table where your child’s work can be spread out—and left out when they break for meals and snacks. Position supplies and materials nearby so they are independently accessible, and place a trash can and recycling bin within reach for easy cleanup. A washable, plastic tablecloth can help transition an academic space into an arts and crafts area.

 If the weather is nice, try studying outside! A porch swing is a perfect spot for reading, and gardening in the backyard is a great addition to any science curriculum.

In addition to creating an academic learning environment, find age-appropriate opportunities for your children to help with household chores and meal preparation. Homeschooling advocates emphasize the importance of developing life skills alongside academic ones.2 And with more meals and activities taking place at home, there will be ample opportunity for every family member to pitch in and help.


Staying Fit

With gyms closed and team sports canceled, it can be tempting to sit on the sofa and binge Netflix. However, maintaining the physical health and mental wellness of you and your family is crucial right now. Implementing a regular exercise routine at home can help with both.

If you live in a community where you can safely exercise outdoors while maintaining the recommended distance between you and other residents, try to get out as much as possible. If the weather is nice, go for family walks, jogs, or bike rides.

Can’t get outside? Fortunately, you don’t need a home gym or fancy exercise equipment to stay fit. Look for a suitable space in your home, garage, or basement where you can comfortably move—you’ll probably need at least a 6’ x 6’ area for each person. Many cardio and strength training exercises require little (or no) equipment, including jumping jacks, lunges, and pushups.

And if you prefer a guided workout, search for free exercise videos on YouTube—there are even options specifically geared towards kids—or try one of the many fitness apps available.


Socializing From a Distance

Even though we’re all being called upon to practice “social distancing” right now, there are still ways to stay safely connected to our communities and our extended families. Picking up the phone is a great place to start. Make an effort to reach out to neighbors and loved ones who live alone and may be feeling particularly isolated right now.

And while parties and playdates may be prohibited, modern technology offers countless ways to organize networked gatherings with family and friends. Try using group video conferencing tools like Google Hangouts and Zoom to facilitate a virtual happy hour or book club. Host a Netflix Party to watch (and chat about) movies with friends. Or plan a virtual game night and challenge your pals to a round of Psych or Yahtzee.

There are safe ways to connect offline, too. Rediscover the lost art of letter writing. Drop off groceries on an elderly neighbor’s porch. Or organize a neighborhood “chalk walk,” where children use sidewalk chalk to decorate their driveways and then head out for a stroll to view their friends’ artwork.

Of course, there’s one group of people who you can still socialize with freely—those who reside in your home. Family dinners are back, siblings are reconnecting, and many of us have been given the gift of time, with commutes, activities, and obligations eliminated. In fact, some families are finding that this crisis has brought them closer than ever.


YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Even with all of the tools and technology available to keep us connected, many of us are still feeling stressed, scared, and isolated. However, you can rest assured that you are not alone. We’re not only here to help you buy and sell real estate. We want to be a resource to our clients and community through good times and bad. If you and your family are in need of assistance, please reach out and let us know how we can help.



Sources:
CNBC -
https://www.cnbc.com/2020/03/16/how-to-work-from-home-with-your-kids-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak.html
TheHomeSchoolMom.com -
https://www.thehomeschoolmom.com/benefits-of-homeschooling-2/

If you are debating selling your home, you probably have questioned your need for an open house. An open house is the best way to show off your home to potential buyers if your property is presentable. It increases your chances of selling the property for a multitude of reasons. At I Love OC Homes, we’ve broken down some important reasons why having an open house is beneficial for a home seller!

Creates a Casual Browsing Environment

Just like the car-buying process, the way we search for our new home has now changed. Now that we have the internet, we shop online first to save time and narrow down the properties we like that work in our budget and location. With an open house, it provides an environment that is much more relaxed, for you’ll have multiple viewers at once if you advertise well. Home shoppers can transition from casually browsing the internet at home to casually viewing the property in person without any pressure. It’s beneficial for you as well because it saves time from having to schedule multiple, individual showings for weeks on end. 

Sets Your Home Apart From the Rest

Even if you have a professional photographer come and capture the beauty of your home, online photos won’t do it justice. Allowing people to stop by, take a look around, and picture themselves living there will give them a better feel that the property is right for them. It also gives you a chance to set your home apart from the rest. This can be done with the right staging to really catch the viewers’ attention and increase the odds of a good offer. 

Shows Off the Neighborhood

Hosting an open house gives buyers the opportunity to explore the neighborhood and get to know the area. If you have neighbors who will help paint a picture of how great the neighborhood is, it would be helpful asking them if they can stop by and chat with viewers during the open house. 

Turns Your Browsers into Buyers

Sometimes viewers at an open house stop by simply to browse and aren’t seriously looking to buy. Hosting a proper open house could turn these browsers into buyers if they fall in love with your home! 

If you are looking to work with a real estate team, we know the ins and outs of hosting a successful open house. We will do everything we can to sell your current home, and I (Tim De Shazer) am available anytime to answer questions and make the processes as seamless as possible. Please give me a call at (562) 881-8252. 

We are excited to share the story of Bob and Julie Varden and the recently sold Le Floss listing in Downey, CA. 

An expired listing is a property that has not sold by the end of the period agreed upon in the listing contract between the seller and the listing agent. After this particular listing contract had expired with a previous agent, I Love OC Homes stepped in and saved the day! Tim got the property under contract and into escrow in no time. Not only that, but the home also sold at $30,000 more than the price set in the prior agent’s contract! 

The Vardens are thrilled to share their experience:

I Love OC Homes: Tell us about your first meeting with Tim of I Love OC Homes, and how did you hear of the team?

Julie Varden: We first met Tim at our house when he came over to talk about possibly using his services.  We found out about him through a mutual friend.  

I Love OC Homes: Tell us about your search for the right real-estate agent and how you came to a conclusion to work with Tim?

Julie Varden: We had actually hired another agent, but after our contract was up with her (3 months), we decided to find another agent who could help us sell.  

I Love OC Homes: Did I Love OC Homes offer a certain level of advice, services, support, and market knowledge?

Julie Varden: Tim was very down to earth and knowledgeable, and he was sure he could sell the house for the price we wanted.  

I Love OC Homes: What was your overall experience working with the I Love OC Homes declutter specialist and handyman?

Julie Varden: Tim had a team that worked on the house - a cleaner and stager.  They both did a great job!  

I Love OC Homes: Share your overall experience working with Tim and the I Love OC Homes team?

Julie Varden: The house received some good offers, and we ended up selling for more than we asked for!  

I Love OC Homes: How likely are you to refer Tim and the team at I Love OC Homes to friends?

Julie Varden: We are so thankful to Tim and the whole team and will definitely recommend I Love OC Homes and Tim to all our friends!

Is the contract with your current agent about to expire? Our team at I Love OC Homes can help by putting your selling needs first again. If you or someone you know needs advice on where to start the process, give our team a call at (562) 881-8252.

If you’re looking for something active to do during the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend in Orange County, we’ve got you covered. 

Come run off all that turkey and pumpkin pie at the 2019 Turkey Trot in Huntington Beach on Friday, November 29th. If you’re still stuffed from Thanksgiving, walkers are allowed as well! There will be runners of all speeds. The race is held by A Better World Running, established by runners for runners in 2011. Their mission is to make a positive impact on the consciousness of humanity by sharing their love for running with others. 

Whether you’re in shape to run a half marathon, 15k, 10k, or 5k, the Turkey Trot is meant to be a friendly, fun racing atmosphere. They offer free photos and medals for everyone! You’ll also receive a goodie bag of cool swag, including snacks, beverages, and personal care product samples. However, maybe the most exciting part about this race is how beautiful the views are as you make your way to the finish line along the coast. The starting location of the Huntington Beach race is on the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Warner Avenue. You just can’t beat those ocean views!

The race organizers offer affordable costs, too! Their goal is to create a racing environment that encourages positivity and helps spread the love for running, setting and reaching goals, and meeting new friends. They offer group discounts, a rewards program, and free race registration to anyone with a family member or friend who is willing to volunteer and help with the event. 

The Turkey Trot is family-friendly, and they accept same-day registration as long as the run is not full. If you can’t make the race in Huntington Beach, they offer races in Long Beach and Santa Monica, as well. Visit their event calendar for more information on specific locations, dates, and times. 

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the Huntington Beach area or surrounding Orange County cities, give me (Tim De Shazer) a call at (562) 881-8252. 

Moving can be stressful for you and your family. What many forget is that your dogs, cats, and smaller animals may be overwhelmed by the change too! Our team at I Love OC Homes has put together steps you can take to make sure they are prepared before, during, and after the move. 

Your pet may find a house full of boxes chaotic, as it’s a dramatic change in their safe environment. While packing up before the big move, try your best to pack things from room to room. Keep your pets separate and comfortable in the room that you plan to pack last. 

Consider preparing a bag for your pets. This can be a simple backpack packed with food, litter, or toys that you may want easily accessible and set aside from all your other boxed belongings. Remember to update any microchipping contact information, including addresses for tags on collars and labeled pet belongings as well. 

You should also contact your current veterinarian to obtain the medical records for each of your pets, and ask them if they have any recommendations for vets in your new area. Our team has already done some research for you and found a highly recommended vet in the Los Alamitos area, VCA Rossmoor-El Dorado Animal Hospital. You can even visit their website for a $25 coupon towards your pet’s first exam. 

While moving, make sure your pets are put away in a safe place. There will be a lot of unknown commotion with boxes and furniture moving out of the house, and we certainly don’t want your furry friends to slip out an open door unnoticed. Also, be sure when introducing your pet to the new home and neighborhood that they are leashed or still crated until safely inside. 

If you’re starting a new job and need a pet sitter in the OC area, I suggest finding a local daycare or boarding facility, so your pet feels comfortable in their new home while you are away. Bark City Dog Daycare and Boarding of Huntington Beach is one of Orange County’s highly recommended dog daycares. You can find their pricing, location, and contact information here. 

If you are new to the area and want more details about local dog parks, reputable veterinarians, or pet boarding and daycare, contact me (Tim De Shazer) at (562) 881-8252. 

November is officially here, and we’re moving on from Halloween and on to everyone’s favorite feast- Thanksgiving. This year, our team is leaving the cooking to the professionals, as we’ve rounded up the best local spots to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner at so you can skip the mess and enjoy time with your loved ones. Plus, there is an option for everyone’s preference

Orange Hill 

Make this Thanksgiving bubbly at Orange Hill’s Thanksgiving Day Champagne Buffet. Choose from turkey, prime ribs, crab legs and more, and top it off with bottomless mimosas. Be sure to make your reservation online. Uniquely situated, Orange Hill offers sweeping views of Catalina Island, Downtown Los Angeles, Disneyland's magical firework show, and our beautiful California coastline. Orange Hill offers a fine-dining experience that you will never forget.

Seal Beach Chamber 

The holidays are all about giving back, and the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce kicks off the season by hosting its annual Thanksgiving meal at St. Anne’s Chruch for those in our community who cannot be with family or friends on the special day. There will be bingo, dinner, and good company to enjoy the day with. The Chamber is also encouraging attendees to bring a canned food item to donate to local charities. Please RSVP by November 23.

Old World

Join Old World Huntington Beach for an "All You Can Eat" Thanksgiving Day Buffet. Enjoy turkey, ham, and all the trimmings. Don’t forget pumpkin pie for dessert! Enjoy all the traditional holiday dinner delights as well as some special German treats the restaurant and bakery have been known for. Space is limited, so make your reservations ASAP.

There’s nothing like being able to walk off Thanksgiving dinner with a beautiful sunset on the beach. For more Orange County holiday festivities, follow I Love OC Homes on Facebook and Instagram, so you never miss a beat. 

We’re not going to lie; buying a home is not always a walk on the beach. However, when you work with a professional agent and team, the processes can easily be managed step by step. This week, our team at I Love OC Homes is breaking down the home-buying process. 

Step One

Start your research early by reading websites, newspapers, and magazines that have current listings. Make notes of homes that interest you and see how long they stay on the market. Then you want to decide how much house you can afford and make this determination based on your financial situation. This is also a great time to look at your future commute to work, the schools in the area, and the community.

Step Two 

Find the right real estate agent to provide you with helpful information on homes and neighborhoods that isn’t easily accessible to the public. Their knowledge of the home buying process, negotiating skills, and familiarity with the area you want to live in can be extremely valuable.  

Step Three

Before you start looking for a home, you will need to know how much you can actually spend. Get prequalified and preapproved for credit through your Mortgage Lender. 

Step Four 

Shop for your home in your price range and desired neighborhoods. Next, work with your real estate agent to negotiate a fair offer. Once you and the seller have reached agreement on a price, the house will go into escrow. 

Step Five

Your real estate agent usually will help you arrange to have a home inspection conducted within a few days of your offer being accepted by the seller. This is solely for the buyer’s protection. Your lender will also order an appraisal to make sure the home comes to market value.

Step Six

There is a lot of paperwork involved in buying a house. Your lender will arrange for an escrow company to handle all this coordination. At closing, you will sign all of the paperwork required, including your loan documents. It typically takes a couple of days for your loan to be funded after the paperwork is returned to the lender. Once the check is delivered to the seller, you are ready to move into your new home!

Give me (Tim De Shazer) a call at 562-881-8252 if you have any questions. We will help you every step of the way.

Each fall, we get together as a community in Los Alamitos for the annual Trunk or Treat. Not only do the kids love it, but it’s a great opportunity for our team to meet other wonderful families in the neighborhood. Did we mention we will be handing out a special treat to make sure your Halloween rocks?

Memorial Care Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach, along with AYSO Region 159, have graciously sponsored the annual fun this year on Saturday, October 26, from 5:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Little Cottonwood Park (4000 Farquhar Ave). 

This event is free to attend for any locals and visitors to Los Al. Come out to enjoy fun family activities for all ages, including a costume contest with categories for 0-3 years, 4-7 years, 8-12 years, and there’s even a family division. Not to mention, there will be a pie-eating contest, train rides, trunk or treating, prizes, food trucks, inflatables, and a photo booth! Don’t miss out on the scary fun. 

Other contributing organizations include Grateful Hearts, the Los Alamitos Senior Club, and Oriental Trading for providing products for the Trunk or Treat Game Prizes! This event wouldn’t be possible without these local businesses volunteering their time and donations. 

To get inspiration for the costume contest, check out last year’s winners here! 

For more information, please call the City of Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073.

If you or someone you know are interested in buying or selling a home in Los Alamitos or surrounding Orange County cities, stop by the I Love OC Homes booth during the event to speak with me (Tim De Shazer). I look forward to meeting you. 

If you can’t make it by, give me a call at (562) 881-8252 whenever you are ready.