PORTOLA HILLS LIVING by Kelly Turbeville

So have you heard.... the City of Lake Forest is considering 3 new housing developments in Foothill Ranch. These are in addition to the already 4100 homes approved by the city that include Portola Center  in Portola Hills and the Baker/Shea development off of Bake/Alton. Below are the details of the planned new developments: 700 Apartments to be located on the former El Toro Sand/Gravel Mining Company near the 241 and Rancho/Portola Parkway. 151 Condominiums located and 75 single-family "motor-court" located at the auto dealership off of Portola Parkway. As noted above, these new developments are in addition to the 930 homes scheduled to be built in Portola Hills and the 2379 homes scheduled to be built off of Bake/Alton. Being in real estate, new developments are generally good for property values and I know the small businesses located in the area could use more foot traffic.  However, being a resident of the this area, I must say the amount of traffic does co

Wondering how the first month of 2012 ended for the Portola Hills Real Estate Market, here you go!  One of the biggest indicators for my personal business was the fact that my phone was consistently ringing.  Customers are looking for rentals, first time buyers getting into the market and moving up buyers looking to move to the area and the buying season hasn't taken a hold yet.  Good sign?..... hope so! Portola Hills Jan.2011 Real Estate Recap: Sold Properties - 4 Attached/Condo's              2 Description:                        2-Bedroom/2-Bath,  Average Sq.Footage:         1126 Sold Price:                         $227,000 - $202 price per sq.ft. List to Sale Price Ratio:      99% Days on the Market:           70 Distressed Factor:              50% Single Family Residences    2 Description:                        5-Bedroom/3-Bath,  Average Sq.Footage:         3450 Sold Price:                         $830k - $240 price per sq.ft. List to Sale Price Rat

I was just watching this video and I liked it because it gives First Time Home Buyers an idea of the excitement when buying a home.  Now of course that comes with some trepidation... but with the right research, planning, education and of course Team, it is a wonderful life event. http://bcove.me/b2nlykq0 The video is from the California Association, should you have any questions please do not hesitate to give Kelly a call.

We just listed a great condo in Aliso Viejo that would make a great investment for my Portola Hills Investors, First Time Buyers and for parents looking to help get their children started in a home.  Priced at just $185,000 this 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo is located in the complex of Seagate Colony in Aliso Viejo.  No work needed it is light, bright and clean! Tell A Friend!

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!!

Looking for a little holiday fun??  This evening in Lake Forest is the 26th Annual Candlelight Tour .  Cost is just $4.00.  Located at Heritage Hill Park.   Dec. 10th and 11th between 5:30-8:30. Grab the sweaters, hot chocolate and take a lovely stroll through the park to see the lights, visit with Santa and listen to the Carolers. Enjoy!

Trying to get into the holiday spirit?  Below is a list of events you might want to check out. Lake Forest Dec 3rd:            Annual Victorian Christmas - Heritage Hill Historic Park Dec 10th:          Breakfast with Santa. Lake Forest Community Center. Dec 10th-11th:  Annual Candlelight Tour: Heritage Hill Historic Park  Mission Viejo Dec 3rd:            Nutcracker Puppet Show - Saddleback Room Mission Viejo City Hall Dec 9th:            Holiday Light Tour - Norman P Murray Center Rancho Santa Margarita Dec 31st:          New Years Eve Celebration  Silverado Canyon Dec 10th:          Christmas in the Canyon Click on the city for specific details! Portola Hills Residents, let's have some fun with Christmas Lights - Post your pictures here and you may just win a prize!!