Broker's Corner: Sneak Peek of Kingston at Del Sur

Sneak Peek of Kingston at Del Sur

Take a sneak peek into the newest estate homes located in Kingston at Del Sur. Kingston at Del Sur will feature 50 estate-style single-family homes. These homes are 4,912 sq. ft.- 5,620 sq. ft. and will offer up to 6 bedrooms and 6.5 baths. For any questions regarding these homes in this master-planned community contact Shay Realtors.

Ray Shay Broker/Realtor Shay Realtors

Have a great day,  

Ray Shay  

 

858 449-4970  

 

 

 

 

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Lead Story: Goodbye Gold Toe 5/26/15

Theresa and I searched high and low to higher the best and brightest to join Shay Realtors Inc.  Nicole Montemuro, who is our most recent hire as our Operations Manager, was employed by Pacific Sotheby's, while our Listing Manager, Lindsey Fech, was formerly with Barry Estates of Rancho Santa Fe.   Both are great companies.  

Battle of the Socks

Our most recent employee to join Shay Realtors is Kelly Haynes, who graduated from California Western School of Law only a few weeks ago. I bragged to Theresa I was doing an amazing job as "hiring manager."  That was until last week as our team of about a dozen employees crowded around our "Dog Bone" table at our Rancho Penasquitos Community Hub®. 

  

That is when I realized I made a big mistake in hiring every one of them. They first broke rule #1 by celebrating my birthday and the #2 rule they all violated was gifts. Bag after bag containing brightly colored socks.

They were all sending me a very clear message, "your archaic black and brown socks gotta go!" I thought I was pretty "hipster" but I guess my GQ magazine subscription must have run out. No one told me black and brown socks, went the way of the pet rock?  

Battle of the Socks

I had no idea that colorful socks are "in."  Some of the socks were multi colored with funny logos including mugs of beer, dollar bills, stripes and even one which had Homer Simpson on it. I got what my staff was telling me.  It was time for a "sock intervention."

For as long as I can remember my sock drawer at home has always had a consistency of muted colors. Mostly black, a few dark brown and only a handful of lighter brown socks. All twenty-four years as a cop I always wore black socks under leather black boots.  It took a few minutes to wrap my mind around the idea of modernizing my sock collection.

Sometimes as a leader, you need to follow. The very next day I was sitting at the Athlete Store in UTC working on this story as I waited for Theresa.  As you can see, I had my bright blue socks with Homer Simpson on them.

Stephanie - Athleta at UTC Employee

What the heck. Who says an old dog can't learn new tricks.  That is when I met Stephanie or "Steph" as her friends call her. 

Steph walked past me as I sat by the dressing room with her arms full of clothes.  Her million dollar smile was followed by, "hey, those are great looking socks!" 

I had to laugh as I realized she saw Homer smiling away on the bright blue background. Once again our employees demonstrated how truly amazing they are.  I rescinded their termination notices as it renewed my keen sense as a darn good hiring manager and, well, I guess I will get used to my change of socks.  

We hope you had a great Memorial Day Holiday weekend.  Be sure to thank a Veteran for all they have done to keep us safe and preserve our freedoms. We are so lucky to have them! 

    Ray Shay  

    

Copyrighted by Shay Realtors Inc.  All Rights Reserved. 

Broker's Corner 5/19/15: Bay Area Sticker Shock

Bay Area Sticker Shock! 

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors

Shay Realtors regularly has clients moving in and out of San Diego. Recently, Google and other bay area technology companies have been poaching engineers from Qualcomm and other local technology companies.  That's when we get the phone call to help them sell their homes at a great price. 

Our clients moving north to the Bay Area have experienced sever sticker shock. It's not uncommon for homes to sell several hundred thousand dollars over asking price with no repairs to be made by the seller and no appraisal contingency. 

It is so interesting to hear the stories.  Two of our recent buyers are moving from

Bay Area Housing Prices

Silicon Valley to San Diego.  To say the least they are living large.  Real estate looks pretty attractive coming from an area where you can easily pay 1.5 million for a three bedroom two bath fixer with about 2400  square feet of living space. 

I believe in years to come people who are shocked at our current sale prices will be pushed back farther in the heels when San Diego runs out of land to build new homes.   The limited supply will ultimately result in increased values.

If you are interested in knowing that value of your home or how much it will sell or rent for just give me a call.  There is no obligation and it is good to hear what is currently occurring in the housing market.

Have a great day,  

Ray Shay
858 449-4970

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Lead Story for 5/19/15: Gratitude

Theresa and I recently listened to an inspirational speaker at an International Real Estate Conference who spoke of the importance of developing a greater sense of gratitude.  He claimed it would change us forever.

SDPD Chief of Police Shelley Zimmerman Congratulates 2015 Leadership Award Winner Judy Simeroth

Several thousand of us in attendance listened as he explained that he awakens early each morning and reaches down beside his bed and grabs a cold towel that has been immersed in ice water overnight.  He then twists the towel before placing it across his closed eyes.   

In the morning silence, he quietly reflects on what he is grateful for and the people who have helped him in his life.  Sometime during that day he either calls or writes a note to someone who influenced him. He thanks them for what they did and tries to identify ways to help that person be more successful in attaining their goals.

  

As we sat in the crowded audience, several of us were amused.  I even let a soft chuckle escape from my lips just before I whispered to Theresa, "Wow, time to load up the ice chest!' 

Chief of Police Shelley Zimmerman Signs 92127 Leadership Award Recognizing Judy Simeroth

At lunch I joked further with Theresa about the speaker and loading up my ice chest and setting it by our bed.  I'm sure our three sons would likely think I was injured or was simply crazy.  As peculiar as it sounds, over the last few weeks, I have thought more and more about the countless people who have helped me both personally and professionally. 

That is what led me to standing in San Diego Police Department, Chief of Police Shelly Zimmerman's corner office last Friday afternoon and telling her about Judy Simeroth.  Judy is just one of hundreds of people that has positively influenced my life.      

The Simeroth Family Jodi, Jesse, Judy and Jake

I told Chief Zimmerman how many times I asked Judy for help and the answer was always the same, "yes."  

Judy has committed her life to raising an amazing family and helping people in this City and this community.  

Judy has volunteered for countless local causes and was pivotal in helping to grow and build the 4S Ranch / Del Sur Foundation as both past Board Member and President.  

So many people do not realize how many hours Judy has donated to Del Norte High School and the Annual Thank You Run that is held each Thanksgiving morning.   

The 4S Ranch /Del Sur Foundation has alone awarded over $150,000.00 to local charities.   Past leadership award winners helped to select and present the 92127 Community Leadership Award for 2015 to Judy last Friday evening.  

   

The event was hosted by the Mutter's with over $27,000.00 in grants being presented to local non profits and schools in our area.  It was an amazing evening. 

Judy Simeroth is awarded Community Leadership Award Past recipients Herb and Carol Mutter and Randy Koch assist in presentation.

 Ray Shay  

Copyrighted by Shay Realtors Inc.  All Rights Reserved. 

The Broker's Corner 1.20.15

The Broker's Corner

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

It seems we have our first International Listing coming up.  It is a great little place outside Rome Italy!  We don't have a Community Hub there yet, but we're checking out locations ;).  Click on this link to see the location.  ClickHERE.

The home is likely worth around 600K, give us a call for details? 

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 1.6.15

The local market starts off 2015 with increased activity!

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

 

I think 2015 is going to be a very busy year!  I say that because as the ball dropped in New York City our web traffic and phone calls about our currently listed homes has bumped up significantly.  

Maybe it is the low gas prices or the feeling that our economy has some traction that is leading to this surge in activity. If you are thinking of investing in homes or are looking to upgrade to a new build, be sure to give us a call. 

In the next few weeks we will be putting about a dozen homes on the market at a wide variety of price points. They range from single level homes to estate homes on eight acres with fabulous views. 

Our clients seem to enjoy getting "first looks" before they hit the market. in case you are interested put one of our eight highly qualified "Buyer's Specialists" to work for you.  Don't forget their services are completely FREE because the seller always pays their commission.

Have a great week! 

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 12.16.14

Confidence of Home Buyers is Up!

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

 

In a nationwide survey, 36% of homeowners believe their homes will be worth more next year than the current year.  This is a significant increase from previous years.

There is also a pervasive belief that interest rates will rise in 2015.  I believe the US Government knows if interest rates increase too quickly, the housing market will slow and possibly slide. I don't think there is anyone that wants to go there. 

Several of our clients are buying properties that generate cash flow.  If you are interested in investing in apartments or homes, give us a call.

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 12.9.14

Compromises 

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

 

Perspective home buyers have a lot of decisions to make.  As the below graph indicates, there are certain things that buyers do not compromise on. You notice towards the top of this list such items as home size, location, and amenities people are willing to adjust their preferences.

According to the National Association of Realtors, buyers will not normally compromise on quality schools and distance from the home to their schools. It is a clear indicator what is the highest priority of most buyers.  It also reminds sellers of how important close proximity to great schools will add value to your home.   

 

All of our buyer specialists are trained professionals in helping people purchase homes. Their commission is paid for by the seller and/or the new home builder. Give me a call and we will make sure you have the best advocate for your selling or buying needs. 

 

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 12.2.14

Great Time to Buy a Home!

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

It's a great time to buy a home!   You think Cyber Monday or Black Friday are great times to buy?  Well they can be.  I will also tell you with so many people focusing on the holidays, it is a great time to get a deal on a home.


It is a combination of the historical low interest rates and increased home inventory.  The first of the year brings out more buyers and the increased competition tends to make it more difficult to close the deal at a sweet price.
 
If you are interested in looking at what's out there be sure to give me a call.  We have an amazing team of Buyer's Specialists.  

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 11.25.14

Competition in the Local Real Estate Market

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors

The local residential real estate market noticed a significant line up change recently, when Real Living Lifestyles closed their doors to several of their

offices in the area.   It will be interesting to see what other national brands will be doing in the spring in an attempt to gain market share on private real estate brokerages like Shay Realtors. 

I think the competition will refine what real estate companies will be in the future, being an expert in an area and providing exceptional service will never go out of fashion.  Look for some exciting news from Shay Realtors in the first quarter of 2015! 

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 11.18.14

Cost of Living in San Diego

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors

Cost of living data collected by the Virginia-based Council for Community and Economic Research found that San Diego is the 13th most expensive city (among those with more than 50,000 residents) in the United States.

An analysis of the data showed the cost of living here is 30 percent over the national average and that housing costs are more than double the national average. New York City, San Francisco, and Honolulu were at the top of the list of the most expensive cities.

To see the entire list go towww.economicpolicyjournal.com.
 

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 11.11.14

Del Sur Estates - Preparing to Open

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

If you're wondering what the latest and greatest is you will find it with Standard Pacific's Del Sur Estates.  These homes are off the charts in innovation and indoor/outdoor living.  If you are interested in getting on their interest list be sure to visit Standard Pacific - Del Sur Estates.

www.standardpacifichomes.com

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

This information is copyrighted and cannot be reproduced or distributed without the express written consent of Shay Realtors Inc.     

Broker's Corner 11.04.14

The Three Elements That Determine if Your Home Will Sell 

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

It is common knowledge among real estate professionals the three things that determine if your home will sell.  

#1 Is your home the best it can be without going over the top to improve it?  

#2 Is your home being properly promoted and advertised? 

#3 Is your home priced correctly?  

I now it sounds simple, but those three things are it.  The other fundamental rule is once your home hits the market it will tell you the truth.    

At Shay Realtors we have a clear strategies to address the the first two items and we always have recommendations on pricing. I believe our marketing plans are exceptional and our complimentary staging and professional photography is also top notch.  

If you have any questions or want to discuss your options in complete confidence give me a call on my cell phone below.  

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 10.28.14

Local Home Sales Note Some Price Improvements! 

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

There has been lots of price improvements on homes in the area.  In case you do not know the current lingo describing a "Price Improvement" is really a "Price Reduction."   It's a pretty good way to market a price reduction and drive additional activity to a home. 

There are several things that are leading to a slowing market. The first is the substantial gains over the last two years.  Home prices had to "cool" or the market would be too overheated and ultimately bust.
Secondly, there is increased inventory by more people finding they have equity in their homes and the large number of new homes being built.  

Finally, it feels like take home pay has not suddenly improved and the costs of owning continues to increase.  These elements and typical slowdown at the holiday season are all impacting sales. 

Each circumstance is different.  Don't hesitate to give me a call if you have any questions. 

Have a great day!

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 10.21.14

The Housing Market is Slowing 

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

As we approach the holiday season you can feel the slowdown in activity and value cooling.  It was inevitable and it is really a good thing it is here.  The housing market was running too hot for too long.  It could not continue the pace it was on. 

I think you will be seeing a more normal market in the foreseeable future. This week with the problems in the stock market pushed the 30 year fixed interest rate to below three percent.  The rush for refinancing is on.

With the housing market slowing and interest rates dropping it is a great time to buy or to move up.  If you are interested in talking about current market conditions and options available, just give me a call. 

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

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Broker's Corner 10.7.14

Lot's of New Homes Coming Soon! Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _ They had the first drop of wood at several new Standard Pacific Developments in Del Sur.   The new developments are south of Del Norte High School and are in a great position to make the most of views to the south and west.  If you have been thinking of moving up or down be sure to give us a call. Our five Buyer Specialists are exceptional and well versed in helping you finding your next home.  Sellers (including new builds) always pay the commission.  Put our team and these experts to work for you! Ray Shay 858-449-4970 This information is copyrighted and cannot be reproduced or distributed without the express written consent of Shay Realtors Inc.

Broker's Corner - Local Housing Market Trends

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _    The local housing market is still increasing in value, but it feels like a large train that is definately slowing down.  It is especially true for homes which are over a million dollars in value. Where is the market headed?  There are several causes for the slow down. In my opinion some of the main factors are increased inventory, the substantial gains we already achieved over the last few years, stagnant employment in San Diego County and there are simply only so many buyers for all these homes hitting the market. It will be interesting over the next six months as local builders place so many new homes on the market.  Standard Pacific is a very reputable company that builds excellent homes which they stand behind. For worry free buying they are a good play. I just hope the Fed's don't let interest rates rise.  If that happens so many buyers will be removed from equation because they cannot qualify.  That will cause such drag on the home ownership train that it could slow or even stop. If the train feels like it is on a hill it could also slide back down.  Don't hesitate to call me or stop by one of our three locations if you have any questions.  Ray Shay 858-449-4970 This information is copyrighted and cannot be reproduced or distributed without the express written consent of Shay Realtors Inc.

Broker's Corner by Ray Shay

Consumer Confidence Increases

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

  

A recent survey showed that about 90% of Americans feel that buying a home is an important part of achieving the American Dream. 

These same respondents indicated that about 64% of them felt owning a home was an attainable goal. This is a significant increase from last year when just over 40% of people surveyed believed it was possible.  

This dynamic has resulted in more homes hitting the market as values continue to increase, but at a slower pace than prior years.   Another interesting aspect of the local market is the large number of

new homes which will be hitting the market over the next 18 to 24 months.   

If you have any questions on what is going to be built, just give me a call. It is really a large and diverse line of properties hitting the market soon.

Ray Shay 858-449-4970

9.23.14

    

Broker's Corner - Knowing the Housing Market by Ray Shay

Know the Housing Market 

Ray Shay Broker/Owner Shay Realtors _

I can't tell you how many times I wrote about it, talked about it, and reminded our clients, friends and strangers, that the market was ripe for buying.  Many of them listened and they saw their investments increase substantially over the last two years.

Another reminder of the improving housing market came out this week when Realty Trac confirmed that the number of residential properties repossessed by lenders by way of foreclosure in August declined on a year-over-year basis for the 21st consecutive month.

When your thinking of buying or selling a home speak with a full time Realtor that is especially familiar with the local market.  It is worth the phone call.


9.16.14

Not a Writerby Ray Shay

Theresa and I put our three sons to bed several hours ago and here I am still sitting in the dark typing away on my IPAD.  It is only a few brief hours before both sunrise and my deadline. 

I am trying without much luck to write my eWeekly lead story.  It is simply not happening. Some may call it writer's block, but I have never viewed myself as a writer, so I'm not buying it.

I still smile when I think about walking across the shopping center parking lot in 4S Ranch when I stopped and waived for a vehicle to go past me.  The lady braked her car abruptly and stared at me for a moment before yelling out the passenger window in a loud boisterous voice, "I can't run you over.  I love your stories too much."

I still have no idea who that lady was or so many other people who have mentioned things to me about my stories.   I really don't know why people find them so intriguing.  It has honestly been a surprise to me.  

Maybe it is because I admit I'm a work in progress, my hilarious journey I love so much with Theresa and our children, or that I just share thin slices of everyday life that resonates somewhere in the psyche of others? I really don't know.   

I only started writing stories on a whim about five or six years ago.  Then it all got traction as they say and people seem to like reading them.  It has resulted in me developing a sense of responsibility.  A feeling that each week I need to provide something of value. 

In the quiet solitude in this early morning, I can only offer honesty. I just don't have it.  Though I often share slices of my life there is a much bigger pie that is rightfully kept hidden.  The things all of us keep private and choose not share.  And that too is OK. 

I wish each of you a great week and promise next week I will have a story hopefully worth your time.  In the meantime to the nice lady in the car, be patient as I will keep a keen eye out for you in hopes you will hit the break instead of the accelerator if our paths do cross.

Have a great week.