Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you will make in your lifetime, and it can be a daunting process. One of the most crucial steps in buying a home is securing a mortgage, and this is where a mortgage broker comes in. A mortgage broker can help you find the best mortgage product for your needs and help you navigate the complex process of securing a mortgage. However, not all mortgage brokers are created equal, and it's essential to ask the right questions to find the right broker for you. Here are some questions to ask a mortgage broker when you're buying a home:

1. What mortgage products do you offer?
   Mortgage brokers work with multiple lenders, and they can offer a range of mortgage products. However, not all brokers offer the same products, and it's essential to know what the broker can offer. Some brokers may specialize in certain types of mortgages, such as FHA or VA loans, while others may have access to a wide range of products, including jumbo loans or interest-only mortgages.
2. What are the interest rates and fees?
   Mortgage rates can vary depending on the lender, the type of loan, and other factors. It's important to ask the broker what interest rates and fees you can expect for the mortgage product you're interested in. This information will help you compare different lenders and choose the one that offers the best deal for your needs.
3. What is the pre-approval process?
   Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is an important step in the home buying process. Pre-approval can help you determine how much you can afford to borrow and can make you a more attractive buyer to sellers. Ask the broker about their pre-approval process and what documentation you'll need to provide. Some brokers may offer pre-approval in as little as 24 hours, while others may take longer.
4. What is the timeline for closing?
   Closing on a home can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the lender and the complexity of the mortgage. It's important to know what the timeline is for closing so you can plan accordingly. Ask the broker about the timeline for closing and what you can do to speed up the process.
5. What happens if I have trouble making payments?
   Life is unpredictable, and sometimes unexpected financial difficulties can arise. It's important to know what happens if you have trouble making payments on your mortgage. Ask the broker about the lender's policies for late payments, missed payments, and foreclosure. Knowing this information upfront can help you make an informed decision about whether this lender is the right choice for you.
6. Can you explain any unfamiliar terms or concepts?
   Mortgages can be complicated, and there may be unfamiliar terms or concepts that you don't understand. Ask the broker to explain any terms or concepts that you're unsure about. A good broker will be able to explain things clearly and help you understand the process.

Asking these questions to a mortgage broker can help you find the right mortgage product for your needs and ensure a smooth home buying process. It's important to work with a broker who is knowledgeable, transparent, and willing to answer your questions. Remember, buying a home is a big decision, and it's essential to take your time and make an informed choice.

If you're looking for a mortgage professional to help you secure a home loan, here are some qualities to look for:

• Experience: Look for a mortgage professional who has extensive experience in the industry. Ask how long they've been working in the field, and if they've worked with clients in situations similar to yours.
• Knowledgeable: A good mortgage professional should have a deep understanding of the mortgage industry, including interest rates, loan options, and the underwriting process.
• Communication skills: Your mortgage professional should be able to clearly explain the mortgage process and answer any questions you have. They should also keep you updated throughout the process.
• Attention to detail: The mortgage process can be complex, so it's important to work with someone who pays close attention to details and can help you navigate potential pitfalls.
• Trustworthiness: Your mortgage professional will have access to sensitive personal and financial information, so it's essential to work with someone you trust.
• Good reviews and references: Look for a mortgage professional with good reviews from previous clients. You can also ask for references and check with those clients to see how their experience was.
• Availability: Make sure your mortgage professional is available to answer your questions and provide guidance throughout the process. You don't want to work with someone who is difficult to reach or takes a long time to respond.

The specific paperwork required by a mortgage broker may vary depending on the lender and the type of mortgage being applied for, but in general, borrowers should prepare the following documents:

1. Proof of income: This includes pay stubs, W-2 forms, and tax returns for the past two years.
2. Employment verification: Borrowers will need to provide the name and contact information for their current employer, as well as any previous employers they've had in the past two years.
3. Bank statements: Lenders will want to see at least two months of bank statements for all accounts, including checking, savings, and investment accounts.
4. Proof of assets: This includes documentation for any assets the borrower owns, such as real estate, vehicles, or other investments.
5. Identification: Borrowers will need to provide a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport.
6. Credit history: Lenders will typically pull credit reports themselves, but borrowers can bring their own credit reports if they want to check for errors or discrepancies.
7. Debt information: Borrowers should provide information on any outstanding debts, including credit cards, student loans, and car loans.

It's a good idea to check with the mortgage broker ahead of time to see if there are any additional documents or information they require. Gathering all of the necessary paperwork in advance can help speed up the mortgage application process.

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What is Curb Appeal?

• Curb appeal is the first impression your home makes on visitors. It's how you want them to feel when they see it from the street, and it can make or break a sale.
• Curb appeal matters because buyers want to know that they're making an investment in a property that is well-maintained and cared for. A home with good curb appeal will look like it's worth more than one without--and therefore be easier to sell at full asking price!

Benefits of Improving Curb Appeal

• Improving your curb appeal will increase the value of your home, attract potential buyers and create a pleasant atmosphere.
• Increased Value: The first thing that people notice when they look at a house is its exterior. If it looks run down and unkempt, they're likely to assume that the inside is just as bad. Houses with good curb appeal are more likely to be sold quickly and for more money than those without it because potential buyers see them as being well cared for and maintained homes that have been well taken care of by their owners.
• Attract Potential Buyers: When you improve the appearance of your home's exterior, you make it more attractive to potential buyers who may not have considered purchasing it before due to its less-than-ideal appearance from outside viewings only (i.e., driving past). This can lead directly into increased sales numbers!

Tips for Improving Curb Appeal

If you want to improve the curb appeal of your home, there are a few things that you can do. First, it's important to make sure that the outside of your house is well-kept and clean. This includes tidying up any landscaping or yard work that needs done. Second, paint can be an inexpensive way to give your home a facelift. A fresh coat of paint will make it look new again! Lastly, creating an inviting entrance will help potential buyers see themselves living in this space as soon as they walk through the front door (or garage).

How to Make a Good First Impression

• Clean up the driveway.
• Add outdoor lighting.
• Plant flowers and shrubs that are in season, but also consider adding some perennials that will come back year after year without much maintenance or watering (like hydrangeas).

How to Create an Inviting Entrance

To create an inviting entrance, consider installing a new front door. If you have an older home with a smaller front door, this can be an easy way to add some curb appeal without breaking the bank. You can also add some flair by painting your porch or adding a welcome mat.

Tips for Making Your Home Stand Out

• Create a feature wall.
• Add a water feature to your yard, such as a fountain or pond.
• Replace old windows with new ones that match the style of your home, like bay windows or French doors.

Tips for Increasing Curb Appeal on a Budget

• Repaint the front door. A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference in how your home looks, and it's often one of the least expensive ways to improve curb appeal. If you're not sure what color would look best on your house, ask a friend or family member for advice--or take a quick trip to your local hardware store to look at different colors in person!
• Add outdoor planters. Even if you don't have much space for plants inside your home (or don't want them), adding some planters along the front walkway will give visitors something pleasingly green and lush-looking when they arrive at your doorstep. You can also add some colorful flowers that will stand out against any background--this is especially helpful if there are other houses nearby with similar shades as yours!
• Create a window box with potted herbs like basil or mint; these will add color without taking up too much space on an already crowded porch.

Ideas for Adding Color and Texture to Your Home

• Add a colorful mailbox.
• Hang a wreath on the door.
• Add a decorative fence, such as one made from iron or wood, to add some texture and interest to your yard.

Tips for Keeping Your Home's Curb Appeal

• Keep the lawn trimmed. A well-maintained lawn is a sign of pride and care, which can go a long way in helping potential buyers see you as a responsible homeowner. If you don't have time to do it yourself, hire someone who does lawn maintenance on the side--they'll be able to give your yard an extra boost before showing it off to potential buyers.
• Wash windows regularly with vinegar and water (or other homemade window cleaner) so they sparkle when people come over!
• Keep the porch clean by sweeping off dirt or leaves that may have accumulated there over time; this will make sure visitors feel welcome when they step inside your home.

Curb appeal is an important part of selling your home. It's the first thing potential buyers see when they come to look at your house and makes an immediate impression on them. If you want to sell your home quickly, then improving curb appeal is something you should consider doing before putting it on the market.

Consider the Wave of Emotions Home Buyers Go Through When Touring Homes

As the prospective homebuyers pull up to the property, their hearts start to race with anticipation. They feel a mix of excitement and nervousness, wondering if this might be the place they'll call home. As they step out of the car and approach the front door, they take in the surroundings, trying to imagine themselves living there. They might feel a sense of awe at the curb appeal, admiring the well-manicured lawn and inviting porch.

As they enter the house, they are hit with a wave of emotions. They take in the sights, sounds, and smells, trying to determine if this is a place they can see themselves spending their days. They may feel a sense of comfort as they take in the cozy atmosphere, imagining themselves curling up on the couch with a good book. They may feel a sense of excitement as they explore the various rooms, envisioning how they might decorate and personalize the space.

At the same time, they may also experience some trepidation, wondering if there are any hidden flaws or issues that could make this house a bad investment. They may feel a sense of pressure to make a decision, knowing that other potential buyers could be interested in the property as well.

Overall, the emotions and feelings that people go through when arriving at a home they might want to buy are a mix of excitement, nervousness, comfort, and trepidation. It's a big decision and one that requires careful consideration and a lot of emotions.

Looking to sell a home in San Diego? Call Alexander Pfleger at 619-339-7334 for a free, no pressure consultation.

Need financing? Request a quote today!

Owning a home near the ocean in San Diego offers many wonderful benefits, including, beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, relaxation, a healthy lifestyle, and a sense of community.

San Diego has several neighborhoods that offer easy access to the ocean and a desirable coastal lifestyle. Here are some popular areas to consider when looking to buy a house near the ocean: La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Solana Beach.

View ocean view homes in San Diego.

However, living near the ocean can expose your home to salty air and high levels of moisture, which can accelerate the formation of rust on metal surfaces. To protect your San Diego home from rust when living near the ocean, you can take the following steps:

• Regularly clean and maintain metal surfaces: Regular cleaning and maintenance of metal surfaces can help prevent rust formation. Use a mild detergent and water to clean metal surfaces, and rinse them thoroughly with fresh water. Dry the surfaces with a clean cloth to prevent moisture buildup.
• Apply protective coatings: Applying protective coatings such as paint, varnish, or rust inhibitors can help prevent rust formation on metal surfaces. These coatings act as a barrier between the metal surface and the salty air and moisture.
• Use rust-resistant materials: When building or renovating your home, choose rust-resistant materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or galvanized steel. These materials are less likely to rust than other metals such as iron or steel.
• Proper ventilation: Proper ventilation can help reduce the moisture levels inside your home, which can prevent rust formation on metal surfaces. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens and ensure that your home is properly insulated to prevent condensation buildup.
• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect your home for signs of rust formation, especially in areas such as the roof, gutters, and exterior walls. Early detection can help prevent rust from spreading and causing further damage.

By following these steps, you can help protect your San Diego home from rust when living near the ocean.

San Diego is home to many beautiful beaches, but some of the most popular ones include, Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Del Mar Beach, Torrey Pines State Beach, and Ocean Beach.

Love to surf? San Diego is known for having some of the best surfing spots in Southern California. Here are some of the most popular surf breaks in San Diego: Black's Beach, La Jolla Cove, Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach Pier, Mission Beach, Windansea, Cardiff Reef, and Swami's. Each spot has its own unique characteristics and attracts a different crowd, so it's worth exploring them all to find your favorite.

To view homes in San Diego with ocean views, please contact Alexander at 619-339-7334.

Need a pre-approval for a home loan? We have you covered. Request a quote!

San Diego is a popular destination for homebuyers, and there are many neighborhoods and communities throughout the city that offer homes with granny flats or guest houses.

A granny flat is a self-contained living space that is typically located on the same property as a single-family home. It is designed for an older family member who wants to live independently but also wants to be close to family. A granny flat may also be used as a rental property to generate additional income.

A guest house, on the other hand, is a separate dwelling on a property that is designed to accommodate guests. It is typically larger than a granny flat and may have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Guest houses are often used for short-term rentals, such as vacation rentals or Airbnb properties.

While there are some similarities between granny flats and guest houses, the main difference is their intended use. Granny flats are designed for long-term living and are usually occupied by a family member, while guest houses are intended for short-term rentals and are often occupied by tourists or other visitors.

The size of a granny flat, also known as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), can vary depending on a few factors, such as local building codes, available space on the property, and the intended use of the unit.

Generally speaking, granny flats can range from around 300 square feet to over 1,000 square feet. However, the most common size is between 500 and 800 square feet.

Some granny flats may consist of just one room with a bathroom and a small kitchenette, while others may have several rooms, including a bedroom, living area, kitchen, and bathroom.

It's worth noting that the size of a granny flat doesn't necessarily determine its functionality or livability. With smart design and efficient use of space, even a small ADU can provide a comfortable and functional living space.

The size of guest houses can vary widely, depending on various factors such as location, purpose, and available space. Generally, guest houses are smaller than hotels and typically have fewer rooms. Some guest houses may only have a few rooms or suites, while others may have several dozen.

The size of a guest house may also depend on its intended use. For example, a guest house designed for couples or solo travelers may have smaller rooms than a guest house intended for families or groups. Additionally, guest houses located in urban areas with high land costs may have smaller footprints than those in rural or suburban areas.

Overall, the size of a guest house can range from a small cottage or studio apartment to a larger building with multiple rooms and amenities.

View homes in San Diego with a guest house.

When building a guest house, it is important to consider the following legal laws:

Zoning and Land Use Laws: Ensure that the property is zoned for guest house construction and meets the requirements set forth by local zoning laws.

Building Codes and Regulations: Building codes ensure that the guest house is structurally safe and meets certain minimum requirements for construction and design.

Permitting and Inspection: Obtain all necessary permits and undergo inspections during the construction process.

Health and Safety Regulations: Guest houses must comply with health and safety regulations, including fire codes, ventilation requirements, and electrical and plumbing standards.

ADA Compliance: Guest houses must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including wheelchair accessibility and other provisions.

Business Licenses and Taxes: Depending on the jurisdiction, a business license may be required to operate a guest house. Also, be aware of tax requirements and regulations that apply to operating a guest house.

It is important to consult with a local attorney, architect, or contractor to ensure that your guest house complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

Question? Call Alexander Pfleger at 619-339-7334.

Need a pre-approval for a home loan? Request a quote.

There are several reasons why someone might choose to buy a brand-new construction house in San Diego. Some of the most common reasons include:

1. Modern amenities and design: New construction homes often come with modern amenities and design features that can be very attractive to buyers. For example, these homes may have open floor plans, large windows, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home technology.

2. Reduced maintenance costs: Because everything in a new construction home is brand new, buyers can typically expect to have lower maintenance costs in the first few years of ownership. This can be a big advantage over buying an older home that may require more frequent repairs and updates.

3. Customization options: Many builders offer buyers the ability to customize certain aspects of their new home, such as flooring, countertops, and cabinetry. This can be a big draw for buyers who want to have a say in the design of their home.

4 Better energy efficiency: New construction homes are often built with energy-efficient features that can help reduce utility bills and have a lower environmental impact. This can be a big advantage for buyers who want to live in a more sustainable home.

5. Warranty and builder support: New construction homes typically come with warranties that cover certain aspects of the home, such as the roof, appliances, and structure. Additionally, builders may offer ongoing support and maintenance to ensure that buyers are satisfied with their new home.

View New Construction Homes in San Diego

If you're buying a new construction home in San Diego, there are several issues that you should watch out for to ensure that you're making a sound investment. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. Builder reputation: Do some research on the builder's reputation before making any commitments. Check for any complaints or lawsuits against the builder and look at reviews from previous buyers to gauge their level of satisfaction.

2. Construction quality: Ensure that the builder is using high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure that your home will be durable and long-lasting. Consider hiring a home inspector to inspect the construction quality during the building process.

3. Location: Consider the location of the new construction home, including proximity to amenities such as schools, parks, and shopping centers. Also, consider the overall neighborhood and surrounding areas.

4. Price: Be sure to compare the prices of similar homes in the area to ensure that you're getting a fair price for the home.

5. Contract terms: Review the contract carefully, paying close attention to the warranty, timeline for completion, and any penalties for delays.

6. Financing: Research your financing options carefully and ensure that you have a pre-approval in place before making an offer on a new construction home.

7. HOA fees: If the home is located in a community with a homeowner's association (HOA), be sure to factor in the HOA fees into your budget.

8. Builder incentives: Be aware of any builder incentives that may be available, such as upgrades or closing cost assistance, and consider if they are worth the additional cost.

By being aware of these issues, you can make an informed decision when buying a new construction home in San Diego.

To learn more about New Construction homes in San Diego, please call Alexander Pfleger at 619-339-7334.

Request a quote for a home mortgage loan.

San Diego can be a great place to buy a home with solar panels due to its sunny weather. San Diego has a mild Mediterranean climate with an average of 266 sunny days per year. This means that there is plenty of sunlight to generate electricity from solar panels, which can help you save on your energy bills.

There are several reasons to buy a house with a solar system already installed, including:

1. Cost savings: A solar system can significantly reduce your energy bills, and if the system is already installed, you can start saving money right away.

2. Environmental benefits: Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source that produces no greenhouse gas emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice.

3. Increased home value: A home with a solar system installed is generally more attractive to buyers, as it offers the benefits of cost savings and environmental benefits.

4. Energy independence: With a solar system, you can generate your own power and reduce your dependence on the electricity grid, which can be especially important in areas with frequent power outages.

5. Government incentives: Depending on where you live, there may be tax credits or other incentives available for homes with solar systems, which can make the purchase even more cost-effective.

6. Maintenance: If the solar system is already installed, the previous owner may have already taken care of maintenance and repairs, saving you time and hassle.

Overall, buying a home with a solar system already installed can offer significant financial, environmental, and practical benefits.

View San Diego County homes with Solar!

When a home has a solar system, there are several issues to consider:

1. Efficiency: The efficiency of the solar panels is critical to the system's performance. You should check the age, condition, and efficiency of the solar panels. Older panels may not generate as much electricity as new ones, and damaged panels may not work correctly.

2. Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the solar system is essential to keep it running efficiently. You should ask the previous owner about their maintenance routine and whether they had any issues with the system. Also, consider getting an inspection by a professional to ensure everything is in good condition.

3. Warranty: Solar panels typically come with a warranty, which covers defects and other issues. You should ask the previous owner about the warranty, its terms and conditions, and whether any repairs or replacements were made under it.

4. Energy production: You should obtain the energy production data for the solar system to determine if it is producing enough energy to meet your needs. You can request this information from the previous owner or the solar installation company.

5. Incentives: Some states and utilities offer incentives for homeowners who install solar systems. You should research whether there are any incentives available in your area and whether the previous owner took advantage of them.

6. Compatibility: If you plan to make any changes or upgrades to your home, you should ensure that they are compatible with your solar system. For example, if you plan to add a new electrical appliance, you should check that the solar system can handle the additional load.

7. Financing: If the solar system was financed by the previous owner, you should check the terms of the loan or lease agreement. You will need to ensure that the payments are up to date and that you understand the terms of the agreement.

If you are considering a home without solar panels, here are the general steps for installing solar panels:

• Assessment and Design: A solar panel installation company will first evaluate your home to determine the best size, location, and design for the solar panel system. They will also take into account your energy needs and roof space.
• Permitting: Before installing solar panels, you will need to obtain the necessary permits from your local government.
• Mounting: The solar panels are mounted on the roof of your home using metal brackets. These brackets are secured to the rafters or roof trusses.
• Wiring: Once the panels are mounted, they are wired together and connected to a power inverter. The power inverter converts the DC electricity generated by the panels into AC electricity that can be used in your home.
• Connection to the Grid: After the system is installed and inspected, it will be connected to the electrical grid. Any excess energy generated by the solar panels will be sent back to the grid, and you will receive credit for it on your utility bill.

Overall, the process of installing solar panels on a home can take several weeks, but the actual installation time is typically only a few days.

The best time of day to use appliances when a home has solar panels is during the daytime when the sun is shining and the solar panels are generating electricity. This is typically when electricity prices are the highest, so using your appliances during this time can help you save money on your electricity bill and reduce your reliance on the grid.

However, the exact timing will depend on your location, the size of your solar panel system, and your energy consumption patterns. It's important to monitor your energy usage and the amount of electricity your solar panels are generating to determine the optimal time to use your appliances.

Additionally, you may want to consider installing a battery storage system to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use during the evening or at times when your solar panels are not generating enough electricity to power your home. This can further maximize your savings and reduce your reliance on the grid.

Contact Alexander Pfleger with questions regarding purchasing a home with a solar system.

The holidays are a perfect time of year to get involved in your local community. San Diego County presents many opportunities for people to volunteer their time and services to the homeless or those less fortunate. Don't have the time to volunteer?  Donate gently used clothing, blankets, or money to a local charity. We bring our children to serve the homeless in different areas of San Diego County including Ocean Beach and Downtown. The true value of giving back can only be realized by showing up in-person to experience the joy of giving. The homeless count for November 2022 totaled over 1,700 in Downtown San Diego alone.

Alexander and Amy Pfleger volunteered at Ladle Fellowship in downtown San Diego on December 18th, 2022. The weather has been dipping into the 40's at night. This makes for a cold night for people living on the streets. Over 140 homeless men and women piled into First Presbyterian Ladle Fellowship on Date St. to enjoy Sunday service and a meal.

We arrived at 1:00 p.m., checked in, and were directed to the kitchen to dish up soup. Starting at 2:30 p.m. people were let in to grab a meal, which included soup, salad, fruit, and a cookie. The smiles and thank you's were plentiful. There was enough food for seconds and it truly warmed our hearts to see people getting much needed food and supplies. The cost of living, gas prices, and inflation have forced many out of their homes and vehicles.

It can be difficult to carve out time to volunteer, but Hands On San Diego has made it easy. Simply visit the website, enter a keyword and your zip code, then hit search. Find volunteer opportunities based on age, location, or impact area. The signup process is easy. Membership options are available for individuals, families, and groups to access the calendar, manage a team, and track service hours.

According to a University of San Diego study, the main questions people have about volunteering are, “Does it fit my schedule? Is it something I care about? How long do I have to volunteer? and Is it convenient for me?” Ready to get involved?

Ten Volunteer Opportunities in San Diego (Sign up on HandsOnSanDiego.org)

• Distribute Clothing and Hygiene Items - Third Avenue Charitable Organization (TACO) | http://www.tacosd.org. - Serve as a personal shopper so 50-70 individuals can receive fresh clothing each week. While you're distributing clothing items, Third Avenue Charitable Organization (T.A.C.O) will also be serving breakfast and distributing snack bags to their clients.
  
  
• Mobile Showers for Homeless Folks in Downtown Think Dignity | http://www.thinkdignity.org/
  - The Fresh Start Showers program--the largest program in Think Dignity's line of Mobile Operations of Dignity (MOD) Squad services--travels throughout San Diego County to provide access to basic hygiene services for those experiencing homelessness.
  
  
• Dinner Service at PATH Connections Housing PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) | http://www.epath.org
  - Join PATH San Diego and Urban Angels to help serve healthy and delicious meals to their 134 residents.
  
  
• Serve Lunch at Golden Hall Father Joe's Villages | https://my.neighbor.org/
  - Ensure that all eligible clients and residents have the opportunity to eat sufficient and nutritious meals by assisting in the meal service at Father Joe's Villages' Golden Hall.
  
  
• Food Pantry Volunteer in Downtown The Salvation Army | https://sandiego.salvationarmy.org/san_diego2/
  - Help The Salvation Army distribute as much food as possible to clients in need. This is a great opportunity to do good in your community.
  
  
• Tutor Students in a Variety of Subjects and Grades Barrio Logan College Institute | https://blci.org/
  - Help the students that Barrio Logan College Institute (BLCI) serves be academically successful!
  
  
• Lucky Duck Meal Distribution Lucky Duck Foundation | https://www.luckyduckfoundation.org/
  - Help distribute food and water to about 75 unsheltered homeless individuals in downtown San Diego.
  
  
• Meal Delivery for Seniors in Hillcrest Meals on Wheels San Diego County | https://www.meals-on-wheels.org/
  - Volunteers delivering meals allows Meals on Wheels San Diego County's seniors to remain independent by providing nutritious meals and critical safety checks.
  
  
• Phone/Office Support for Mama's Kitchen Mama's Kitchen | https://www.mamaskitchen.org/
  - Mama’s Kitchen strives to provide nutritional support to San Diego residents at risk of malnutrition due to critical illnesses such as HIV, cancer, congestive heart failure, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.
  
  
• Sort & Organize Donations for Refugees Christ Ministry Center | http://cummc.org 
  - Christ Ministry Center provides long-term support and housing in their 6 apartment buildings for refugees from 27 countries including Haiti, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.

The SDAR Economic Report for October 2022 has been released. It provides detailed information for home buyers and sellers looking to make a move. The report is written by Alan Nevin, The Director of Economic Research for Vertex.

"Information is power only if you can take action with it. Then, and only then, does it represent knowledge and, consequently, power." ~ Daniel Burrus

The Report Provides Several Pieces of Key Information:

1. U.S. Unemployment Rate for the Month of September 2018-2022
2. U.S. Job Openings Month of August 2018-2022
3. U.S. Job Hires Month of August 2018-2022
4. Total Sales San Diego County 1st Three Quarters 2020-2022
5. Median Home Prices, Closed Escrows in San Diego County for September 2021 and 2022
6. Homes Sold by Price Range San Diego County
7. New Listings, Detached and Attached Homes in San Diego County for September 2021 and 2022
8. Market Indicators, San Diego Inventory for September 2021 and 2022
9. Military Generates 22% of San Diego Jobs
10. Direct Spending in San Diego (millions $) 2017-2021

Download the Report

The fall season in San Diego starts September 22nd every year. According to weather.com, the forecasted weather in San Diego for October 2022 will range from 67 degrees to 95 degrees with the average being 74. Some enjoy the changing seasons found in other states because they get bored with the same temperatures year-round, but San Diegans pay the sun tax to avoid the snow and cold weather. San Diego is jam packed with fall and winter events, no need to bring a winter jacket and dread the cold. However, the weather can be a bit unpredictable. For example, we planned a birthday party for our daughter at Crown Point Park North on October 15th. Out of the 29 days in October it rained two days, this Saturday was one of them. We still had a blast and ended the day with a bonfire.

13 Fall and Winter Activities in San Diego

1. Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Old Town
2. Howl-O-Scream Halloween Event at Sea World
3. Gaslamp Quarter Walking Ghost Tour
4. Oktoberfest in La Mesa, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Ocean Beach, and El Cajon
5. Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center
6. The Haunted Trail at Balboa Park
7. Brick-or-Treat Halloween Party Nights at Legoland
8. The Scream Zone at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
9. The Whaley House in Old Town
10. Halgloween at the world-famous San Diego Zoo
11. Day Trip to Julian for Apple Pie and Pumpkin Patch fun
12. Whale Watching
13. Ice Skating in Liberty Station or Coronado

It's true, the real estate market is full of uncertainty. Interest rates are at a 10-year high and housing prices are still adjusting to the change. Talk to a real estate professional to get a better understanding of the market and how it affects your future goals. In the meantime, take your mind off the unknowns by taking advantage of the amazing events listed above.

It's no secret that San Diego is a tourist destination. San Diego homeowners and investors make good money on short-term rentals. This has pushed hopeful homebuyers out of the market. Residents of San Diego have complained for years about the housing market and the negative impact short-term rentals have on the community. Homes that rent for 30 days or less are considered short-term rentals.

The city has finally responded to the concerns of San Diego residents. The new ordinance, set to be implemented on May 1, 2023, will significantly reduce the number of short-term rentals available.

There are four tiers of permits:

1. Tier 1 - The owner does not need to reside in the home and it can be rented out for less than 20 days in a calendar year.
2. Tier 2 - The owner lives in the home for at least 275 days of the year (home share permits) and includes duplex properties.
3. Tier 3 - The owner rents out the property more than 20 days in a calendar year. The whole-home is rented out (not including Mission Beach) and the owner does not need to live in the property. Guests must stay at least two nights. The number of Tier 3 permits will be limited to 1% of the city's total housing unit. 
4. Tier 4 - This permit applies to Mission Beach only. Guests must stay a minimum of two nights and the number of units cannot go over 30% of the total housing units in the area.

Starting on October 3rd, owners of short-term rentals will apply for permits. If the requested permits exceed 1,080 for Mission Beach and 5,400 for San Diego, a lottery will be held. Those who have obeyed city laws will get priority. The lottery is set to take place on December 16th. Approved hosts will need to pay license fees by January 6th or they will have their permit revoked.

For more detailed information, visit SanDiego.gov.

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