Garth Evans

Every once in a while the Lincoln News Messenger asks me to write an article about real estate in Lincoln. This time I decided to do something a little different…

Home Preparedness

Over the last 6 years or so, I have had the opportunity to work with the Boy Scouts. Recently, a number of boys in our troop started working on their Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge. Shortly after we started, the tanker fire in Lincoln took place. About a week after the dust had settled, we had the chance to meet with one of the people who had been in charge during the disaster. He spoke to the boys about what had happened and stressed the importance of having an emergency kit in their homes. Instead of giving home beautification tips or how to cut down on your utility bills, I thought it would be worthwhile to pass along some information that could be essential for every home.

One of the first things he told us was that it was important to put together a kit that would have the essentials for at least 96 hours. He was involved in operations during 9-11 and Katrina and said that 96 hours’ worth of supplies was needed before many people were rescued or evacuated. He told us that it should be in a place that is easily accessible and probably close to the car. He suggested keeping it in backpacks or in the large plastic bins you can find at the store.

One of the first things he spoke about was having cash in relatively small bills readily available. The amount may depend on your family size, but having some cash very important. Also having some change on hand could be useful.

Food and Water-He talked about having a 4 day supply of food and water per person. He said that having a box (or boxes) of bottled water would be adequate but that it should be rotated every once in a while. Food would be items that aren’t perishable, can be stored, and don’t require cooking or refrigeration. Some items that would work well are jerky, granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, canned foods, gum, candy and dehydrated foods.  I have a backpacking stove and fuel in my kit and prefer the dehydrated backpacking meals. They don’t take up much space and the kids like them.  Along with your food you should think about having utensils and a simple mess kit or paper plates.

Personal items-One of the most important items would be a first aid kit. You should also have a toiletries kit for each person that includes soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, comb or brush, toilet paper or wet-wipes. Travel-size items that are available at some large retailers are perfect for your kit. Some members of your family may have needs that will require prescription medicine, extra contact lenses or eye-wear. Medications including Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, cough medicine and children’s medicine should be included. Babies will require additional items.

Shelter, Warmth and Clothing-I keep my camping supplies close by and ready to go in case of an emergency. Sleeping bags, foam pads and tents are part of my kit. Along with this, jackets, hats and gloves should be included for every member of the family. Even in warm weather these items can be useful. Each person should have a change of clothing for warm and cool weather, extra under garments, rain gear, extra socks and a sturdy pair of boots.

Additional equipment-flashlights, headlamps, extra batteries, lantern, flares, candles, lighters, shovel, radio, work gloves, rope, a roll of duct tape, pen and paper, whistle(s), dust masks, tarp, camera and other items can be added if deemed necessary.  He did tell us that it could be helpful to have some simple games included. Some individuals prepare more or less items and this list is not comprehensive, it just gives an idea of some things you may want to think about.

Emergency plan-each household should have an emergency plan laid out for any time of the day. Who picks up the kids if a disaster happens while they are at school? Where does everyone meet? Communication by cell phone may not be possible during a disaster and it is good to go over everything and have a plan for every situation. “Be Prepared”  like the Boy Scouts and a tough situation can turn into an event that the whole family will get through and look back on as an adventure.

Let me know if you have any ideas about emergency preparedness!

1088 Lawrence Lane

Here is a new listing in Lincoln Crossing that is really better than new! This beautiful home is located on a quiet street in a great neighborhood. Upgraded throughout, you will be impressed from the minute you walk in the door. The richly appointed kitchen has dark cherry wood cabinets, granite countertops, top of the line stainless appliances, tile flooring and pendant and under cabinet lighting. Throughout the home you will find plush premium carpet, plantation shutters, ceiling fans and so much more! This floor plan is very appealing with a downstairs bed and bath as well as a spacious den with French doors, formal living and dining and a great room concept for the kitchen and family rooms. Upstairs you will find the generously-sized master bed and bath as well as 3 additional bedrooms and another full bathroom. All the bathrooms are highly upgraded with brushed nickel fixtures, tile flooring, granite slab counters and bath surrounds. Excellent curb appeal and meticulous landscaping greet you from the street and invite you to the back yard. This home is extremely clean and is just waiting for your personal touches. Enjoy free internet to your home and the swimming pools, workout facilities and other amenities that Club Lincoln has to offer. This is NOT A SHORT SALE OR BANK-OWNED. No delays on response or closing!

Offered at $309,999   

Call today for a full list of upgrades and to request a private showing.

Spring seems to be here and with the nice weather last week,  there has been quite a lot of real esate activity. Last week we signed listing agreements with 3 couples that have asked us to sell their homes. All three are under $200,000 and in great condition. Here are the details:

2002 Rickenbacker Lane

2002 Rickenbacker Lane, Lincoln, CA 95648-Well designed floor plan at Lakeside in Lincoln. You’ll love the open feel of the kitchen and family room areas. Warm, neutral paint colors, tile counter with extended backsplash, built-in microwave, alarm system and much more! Full back yard landscaping with stamped concrete patio, mow curb and auto sprinklers. Located in a nice new, friendly neighborhood and just down the street from a park. Close to schools and community sports fields. Listed at $179,999, all offers will be considered.

222 D Street

222 D Street, Lincoln, CA 95648-A recent remodel on this cute bungalow in downtown Lincoln makes it move-in ready! Hardwood flooring, carpet, custom paint, central heat and air, crown molding, wainscoting, and more. You’ll love the bright and spacious kitchen with oak cabinets, white appliances, tile flooring, gas cooktop and decorative tile countertops. Great location close to McBean Park. This home also has a detached garage with alley access and an inviting front porch. Great price and perfect for the first-time homebuyer. Listed at only $109,999.

1300 Hudson Circle

1300 Hudson Circle, Lincoln, CA 95648-Move in ready! This richly appointed home is located close to schools and parks and has all the right upgrades. Granite counter tops, stainless appliances, gorgeous cherry wood cabinets and so much more. You’ll love the spacious master and functional floorplan. Other features include upstairs laundry and finished garage with epoxy floors. Don’t delay, own a home with a lower monthly payment than rent! Listed at only $149,999

Call or email today if you have any questions about any of these homes. 916 408-2222.

Galleria Fire from CBS News

No alien abductions, no terrorist attacks, only some crazy kid that played one too many video games and knew how to start a fire…Thank goodness that nobody was physically hurt! I am sure some mental anguish took place for some people not being able to get their Nordstrom fix.

So now that the dust has settled to some extent, everyone is asking “When will the Galleria Mall open?” To be honest with you, my concern is not about the lack of immediate shopping options, but for the people that are currently out of work due to the fire. My daughter, on the other hand, has been worried that she won’t be able to frequent her favorite stores. I hear a lot of the rumors going around about when the mall will reopen and there are mixed opinions. I think the most reliable sources are saying that portions of the mall may be open by the end of the week. The parts of the mall that have the most damage, JC Penney and Macy’s, will take much longer to open. I feel bad for the people who are out of work, but as with any catastrophe, new opportunities are created. I am sure that some of the people working to restore the mall could be amongst those who were praying for work. Hopefully things will work out well for those directly affected.

This beautiful home in the gated Verdera Community is located at the end of a cul-de-sac and backs open space giving you a nice view of the heritage oaks. Imperfect smooth stucco and contrasting stone work greet you as you come up to the home. You will be impressed with the detail and the well thought-out upgrades on the interior. The richly appointed kitchen includes granite slab countertops, top-of-the-line cabinets, stainless appliances and travertine flooring. Enjoy looking out to nature from the many windows of the kitchen nook. This home has a wonderful floor plan with a ground level master, formal living and dining rooms, spacious den, library, bonus room and 4 additional bedrooms. The generous master opens to the back yard and includes an impressive master bath with a jetted tub, travertine, split vanity, custom closet organizers and a large shower. Relax next to the fire pit in the gorgeous backyard, play ball on the basketball court, BBQ at the outdoor kitchen or enjoy views from the balcony. The over 900 sf garage has custom cabinets, double garage door opener and epoxy floors.  Other upgrades include hardwood flooring, surround sound, built-in media niche, custom paint, covered patio and so much more. From the masculine den, premium carpet, extensive travertine and hardwood to the privacy and fun of the backyard, this home is affordable luxury. Priced to sell at $549,999.

See full photo set on Featured Homes tab, 205 Monteverde Court, Lincoln, CA 95648

Wow, it’s only 10:00 am and my office thermostat is already reading 84 degrees. I usually don’t have to turn the air on until at least 11:00, but I’m starting to heat up! I really like the heat, maybe it’s because I had to shovel so many sidewalks and deal with frozen ears and toes so much growing up. Isn’t is funny taking about the weather? It seems like some people are never satisfied. Either it’s too hot, too cold, too much rain, not enough rain…blah, blah, blah. Maybe it’s just for converstation or something but I think it might be about attitude as well. Now, I can understand if you are having to move today, I do feel for my clients moving to Davis. I hope the day goes well. I also understand the farmers and other businesses that depend on the weather for work or to be able to do work, but I am talking about the everyday American that goes to an office or school that is air-conditioned and the hardest part of the day is getting into a hot car and sweating for a minute while it cools down.

Sorry if I come off harsh, it might just be a bit of an attitude after talking to some banks on short sales, but I’m also counting my blessings and trying to reflect on how lucky we are to live in this country. I’m going to try to have a more positive outlook and encourage others to do the same!

On the real estate front, rates are still extremely low and if you have good credit and a little money, it’s a great time to buy. Some of the bank-owned and traditional sales are starting to sit on the market a little longer and I feel that prices in the larger homes are starting to drop again slightly (they did go up in Placer County for a few months).  Congratulations on closing to my two clients moving out of the area.

1756 sf, 3bed/2bath sold for $233,000

2498 sf 4bed/2.5bath sold for $235,000

 Call me if you have any questions about buying or selling or the market in general.

SHARK ATTACK-Summer Fun in Lincoln, CA

Can you remember your summers as a kid? I always think back about he hype and parties leading up to the end of school and then the joy of being free for a couple months. It seems to me that things have changed and there are way more parties and end of school productions that there use to be. There was great joy in being done with the everyday grind,  but also sadness in knowing that there were some friends that you wouldn’t see until you were sitting in your desk with your “school clothes” in a few months. Anyway, kids seem to have an adjustment period where they go from being super busy to feeling like they have nothing to do. Have you heard the phrase “I’m bored!” yet this summer? I am sure my wife hears it a lot more that I do, but I have had some calls from home during the day with the complaint of not having anything to do. My answer is always work! Mow the lawn, wash the car, water the plants, clean the floor, wash the windows…I could go on and on. Anyway, summer is supposed to be fun for the kids, and for those Moms, Dads, Grandmas or Grandpas out there that need some ideas to keep the kids busy, I am going to post some great ideas of things to do over the summer. I can’t take credit for the list,  this has been compiled by others for all of us to use.

The first list is of FREE activities and ideas:

Summer Fun 2010

Print out a calendar for the whole summer at:  http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2010/05/summer-calendar.html and fill in what is already known and pick theme days, this could include a library day, a craft day, a food/cooking day, and outing day, movie day, friends over day, and a water day or whatever works for you.

Let children choose a theme for each week nd focus activities around that theme.

Establish a point system for things such as reading or outdoor play and use those points to earn media time or special outings.

If you choose a certain day for outings, keep it a surprise but let the children know it is almost always that day of the week to look forward to, for example “Wacky Wednesday” or “Surprise Friday”.

Grab those local parents’ magazines in the front of the grocery store.  Even if you don’t have young kids, the calendar in the back can be very useful.

Sign up for the City of Lincoln eBulletin, you get an email every couple of days with the activities, events and meetings around Lincoln:  http://www.ci.lincoln.ca.us/ConstantContact.cfm -These bulletins don’t always have fun activities for the kids but will give you a good idea of what is going on in the City.

FREE ACTIVITIES

Regal Family Movies – Olympus Pointe 12 – Tues., Wed., Thurs. @ 10:00 AM

520 N. Sunrise Ave., Roseville, CA  95661, 916-772-1245

June 22, 23, 24                     Doogal (G)

                                                Monsters vs. Aliens (PG)

June 29, 30 & July 1           Tale of Despereaux (G)

                                                Planet 51 (PG)

July 6, 7, 8                             Wallace & Gromit (G)

                                                Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (PG)

July 13, 14, 15                      Kit Kittredge:  American Girl (G)

                                                Aliens In The Attice (PG)

July 20, 21, 22                      March Of The Penguins (G)

                                                Where The Wild Things Are (PG)

July 27, 28, 29                      Arctic Tale (G)

                                                Kung Fu Panda (PG)

August 3, 4, 5                       Clifford’s Big Movie (G)

                                                The Spy Next Door (PG)

Water Parks-were not talking about the big slide parks like “Sunsplash”

                Lincoln – Foskett Ranch

                Rocklin – Lone Tree, Camp Whitney, Memorial Park

                Roseville – Leonard Duke Davis Park, Mark White Park, R.F. Nelson Park, and others in greater Sac.

Frisbee Golf – Johnson Springview Park in Rocklin, Oak Park in Carmichael

Flashlight Tag – Fun to play at night at McBean Park

Tennis – Court at LHS usually open starting at 8 am

Free Books at Carnegie Library – Fridays 8:00 am – 12 Noon beginning June 11^th

Hidden Falls Regional Park (between Lincoln & Auburn) – Beautiful hiking.  Bring a lunch and make it a day.  Check website for directions and map:  www.placer.ca.gov/Departments/Facility/Parks/hiddenfalls.aspx

Rocklin’s 2010 Evening-In-The-Park free concerts held at Johnson-Springview Park, 5480 Fifth Street at the Community Stage.  Performances held on Friday nights from 7 pm – 9 pm. 

                June 11 – Dad’s Night with “Square1”

                July 9 – Kids’ Night with “Essex”

                July 23 – Health & Safety Night with “Eclipse”

                August 6 – Teachers’ Appreciation Night with “Departure”  www.rocklin.ca.gov/government/service_n_facility/special_events_theatre_n_arts/special_events/evening_in_the_park_concert_series.asp

Rocklin’s Shakespeare Company presents Dream On: A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Johnson-Springview Park Community Stage.  Free performances start at 8 pm.  Dates: July 29, 30 and August 1, 13, 14, 15

www.rocklin.ca.gov/government/service_n_facility/special_events_theatre_n_arts/theatre/shakespeare_in_the_park.asp

Fun cement slide – Lincoln Estates Park, 331 James Drive in Roseville. Bring a rolls of wax paper for easy sliding.  There are picnic areas and regular play structures at the park, but NO bathrooms.

Art Walk – 3^rd Saturday of every month.  Downtown Roseville galleries, and retail & civic venues keep their doors open for visitors to enjoy an evening of fine art, music and refreshment.  Roseville Arts Blue Line Gallery participates in this community event by offering regular 3^rd Saturday afternoon hands-on activities for children (1-4pm) and evening receptions (6:30-9pm).  http://www.rosevillearts.org/tours.html#3rdsat

Friday night movie at the Twelve Bridges Library – July 2^nd at 6:00 pm – Percy Jackson; the Lightening Thief

Check website for August movie:  www.libraryatlincoln.org

Lincoln  Library Summer Reading Program – June 1^st thru July 5^th.  www.libraryatlincoln.org

Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program – Read 8 books and get a free book off their list.  Sign-up forms in the store.  1256 Galleria Blvd., Roseville

Concerts at The Fountains in Roseville – Sat. July 3^rd, 8 – 10 pm

Lincoln Farmer’s Market – Thursday Nights in downtown Lincoln

Martha Riley Library – new library in Roseville that has an upstairs room where kids can play games.  Also houses the Utility Exploration Center.

Downtown Roseville Tuesday Night – 5 – 9 pm on Vernon Street, May through July

http://www.roseville.ca.us/calendars/city_calendar.asp?ViewBy=7&CalDate=6/15/2010&EventDateID=16785

Lowe’s free Build & Grow Clinics – kids build projects at 10 am on some Saturdays https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/

Home Depot free kid’s workshops – first Saturday of each month from 9am – 12 Noon

Michael’s – variety of craft classes  http://www.michaels.com/art/online/events?storeid=1680

Chuck E. Cheese – use coupons from the newspaper for free and cheap tokens-I’m not a huge fan of this one, something about furry animals being around pizza…but the kids like it!

Play areas in the mall

Geocaching – high tech treasure hunting  http://www.geocaching.com/ This is pretty cool for older kids. REI has GPS units you can rent. Sometimes the treasures they find are fun. Make sure that you give them some things to leave for the next people at the geocache-the treasures don’t have to be expensive. I have seen fast food toys and dollar store items in the cache. You could probably find some things around the house that would be great geocache treasures.

Just a short bio video that will give you an idea of how I run my business…

So I was thinking about this the other day as my stack of short sale files is getting higher and higher (Don’t despair if I am working one for you, I am closing them but they are taking time). A lot of agents are complaining about the banks not working with them, basically making life difficult and sometimes foreclosing in the middle of a deal. I have yet to see that happen on any of my files, but I have learned that representing a seller on a short sale is not for the faint of heart. A short sale definitely isn’t short and is nothing like a sprint.

Last month, I had the chance to run my first marathon. The route was full of elevation changes and at a much higher overall elevation than I am used to running.  Just like in a marathon, there are times in the short sale process when you feel great about the progress then times when you feel like you can’t finish and want to give up. What I have found is that if you can push through those times without too much frustration or longing to quit,  the desired results are generally attained. Let me know if there are any questions regarding the process or different phases and I would be happy to answer based on my experiences over the last couple years.