PORTOLA HILLS LIVING by Kelly Turbeville

We have seen the grading and knew it was coming but we are getting closer to the new development, The Oaks in Portola Hills is becoming reality!!   The developer for The Oaks is Baldwin and Sons under the Portola Center project with the City of Lake Forest. Though homes are not expected to be released until early 2016, below is some basic information on the new development per my visit with their sales associates. This neighborhood includes 309 Luxury Estate Homes Home Square Footage ranges from 2692-5200 There will be 8 separate home designs with 1 single story design The community will be gated and will include a pool and basic HOA amenities. Initial HOA is $350 and at final build out is estimated at $250/month Tax rate is projected to be 1.2570% Property addresses will be Lake Forest Estimated 1st release early 2016 Overall this is a great addition to the Portola Hills neighborhood the current estate homes maximum size is 3700 sq.ft.  Upgraded homes with views are

Inventory, Inventory or should we say Lack of Inventory is the buzz word in Real Estate these days.  This is no exception in both Foothill Ranch and Portola Hills.  The market ended with very few homes on the market.  Good news... though for home sellers these homes successfully closed escrow in the first month of 2013! Have you been thinking about a move.... you will want to seriously take into consideration the low inventory.. as this is going to offer a the opportunity to receive top dollar for your home.  In addition, with interest rates projected to tick up, you have actually reached the perfect storm in Real Estate.  Top Market Price, Huge Buyer Demand, resulting in Multiple Offers and allowing you to purchase a move up property at today's low interest rates. Wondering what your home is worth....simply send us a note and we will send you over a FREE Market Report or your property and the immediate neighborhood!  It's that simple!

Wondering how real estate ended in 2011..... Here is a quick snapshot per square footage of how each housing segment ended the year.  We heard many times through the year that hottest market in Orange County was Portola Hills.  This is a direct result of supply and demand.   No supply, high demand and with just 54 listing sold in Portola Hills in 2011 that was evident.  In 2010 96 homes sold. Wondering how this relates to your home, give us a call and we would be happy to run the numbers for you. One thing is for certain.  Opportunity is knocking!!

Have you looked at the outside of your home lately and thought, man I need to paint.  But then thought, there is no way I can afford this now.  You may want to check the City of Lake Forest , Neighborhood Pride Program. Which is funded by the city's Frederal Community Development Block Grant.  This is a citywide program that assist qualified homeowners with the exterior painting of their homes.  This service is provided at NO Charge, Woo Hoo!   Over 75 homes have been assisted to date. Selection of owner-occupied homes will be by lottery.  Of course there are terms that need to be met along with a Maximum Income Limit.  Contact the city direct for the details. If interested in participating, you can pick up a an application packet at City Hall or Call 949.461.3552.  Applications are due no later then Thursday Oct. 28, 2010.