Not being large animals,

birds can succumb to illness very quickly if not treated in time.

By: Roger Ewing

If you read my recent post concerning the barn owl I found laying beside the trail in the Chesebro bike park, you may be wondering what has happened to our fine feathered friend Hooty. Today I spoke with a member of the staff at the California Wildlife Center who tells me

Hooty the barn owl is recovering slowly from his infections and is eating on his own.  Hooty’s caregivers fed him a skinned mouse and Hooty apparently enjoyed the meal very much.

Keep in mind that the center is located on Piuma Road near the Saddlepeak lodge and it is not easy to find.  There is a red mail box with the address 26026 and the letters CWC.  Drive up to say hello, and make a donation to help support a their very worthwhile work.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Roger Ewing

Taken from Snopes, this is very scary!

By: Irma Haldane

“Sunday afternoon around 5 PM I headed into the Target in Philadelphia, Pa. where crime is VERY RARE and mostly it is with bikes being stolen!!  It was still light outside and I parked fairly close to the entrance. As I got out of my car and began walking towards Target, an older lady shouted to me from the passenger seat of a car about 30 feet away from me.
“Ma’am you must help me, help me please, help me Ma’am!”

I looked at her in the eyes and started to walk towards her when all of a sudden I remembered an email my Mom had sent me a week or two ago about rapists and abductions using 2 elderly people to lure women in. I paused, memorized the license plate and immediately headed into Target to get a manager to come help this lady, just in case something was up.

While the woman manager headed out there, I kept a close watch just because I was curious what was wrong with the lady and wanted to be sure nothing happened. As the Target lady walked up towards the car and got very close to the old woman in order to help her, the back door of the car flies open and a large man with stocking cap on, jumps out and sticks a gun to the lady’s stomach as he shoves her into the back of the car.

I yelled out “call 911″ several times and just as I was saying that, a policeman who happened to be on the other side of the parking lot! And who, luckily had seen the entire thing happen, raced over to the car.   He was able to stop the car and arrest the male as well as the old lady, who was involved in the scheme.

By God’s grace everyone was all right, including my self, although I think we were both shaken up.   Like many of you, I would not in a million years have left an elderly person who was yelling for help if it weren’t for the e-mail I had read last week. So, I wanted to pass this along so you all can be aware and remember that you really can’t trust anyone these days. You just never know when something like this could happen.

I would have never dreamed it to happen to me especially on a Sunday afternoon at a Target in a safe area! It definitely was not a coincidence that my Mom sent that Email just a few days before this all happened.

Please, be careful and always be aware of your surroundings. Just because you individually don’t go over to help someone doesn’t mean you have to leave them in trouble, but don’t go ALONE, you really don’t know what might be going on.

This was checked with 20Snopes.com Snopes
This is true – and they also use children to lure the victim

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Irma Haldane

Irma Haldane, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, represents buyers and sellers throughout the West San Fernando, Conejo and Simi Valleys with specialization in Agoura, Thousand Oaks, Woodland Hills, West Hills, Camarillo and Westlake Village.

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This is Brought to you by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

By: Irma Haldane

Renovations that disturb lead-based paint in older residential dwellings and child-occupied facilities must generally comply with the Lead-Based Paint Renovation Rule of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  Realtors who act as listing agents or property managers who advise their clients to perform renovations, repairs, or painting projects for such properties may, as a matter of prudence, also want to inform them about these lead renovation requirements.  One common example is when a listing agent recommends that a seller has a home painted to improve its marketability.

Under the newly implemented rule, renovators of target housing built before 1978 must now be trained and EPA-certified to perform safe work practices to prevent lead contamination. Additionally, renovators must deliver EPA’s lead renovation pamphlet to an occupant within 60 days before a project begins (and, if mailed, at least seven days before a project begins).  Renovators must also obtain the occupant’s signed acknowledgment of receipt or substitute documentation as specified.

The EPA issued this rule in 2008, but delayed implementation until now. The rule generally applies to building contractors, handymen, residential landlords, property managers, and anyone else who is paid to perform renovations or to direct workers to perform renovations as specified. The lead renovation rule does not apply to homeowners renovating the homes they live in.  However, sellers of target housing must, among other things, disclose to their buyers any known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards (C.A.R. Form FLD).

Renovation work covered by the lead renovation rule is defined as a modification of an existing structure that disturbs a painted surface, such as surface restoration or surface preparation activity. Excluded are minor repair and maintenance activities that disrupt up to 6 square feet of interior painted surface or 20 square feet of exterior painted surface.  Demolitions and window replacements are not considered minor repairs.

For more information about the lead renovation rule, C.A.R. offers a legal article entitled Federal Lead-Based Paint Renovation Rule.  See also EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting webpage which includes the new requirements, pamphlets, and other resources.  To locate an EPA-certified renovation firm, go here.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Irma Haldane

Irma Haldane, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, represents buyers and sellers throughout the West San Fernando, Conejo and Simi Valleys with specialization in Agoura, Thousand Oaks, Woodland Hills, West Hills, Camarillo and Westlake Village.

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Traffic tickets are more expensive than you thought

By: Irma Haldane

With California steeped in massive debt, increased traffic tickets are one way our State government is generating a few extra bucks. Many motorists remain unaware that roughly $28 in penalty assessments are added to every $10 of a base traffic fine in Ventura County, according to county records. That’s a 180 percent markup to the original ticket.

As Christina Egan recently experienced, a $100 citation, with mandated penalties, can run as high as $446. Astonishingly, a $20 cell phone ticket adds up to $97 and many times reaches $143. A $35 ticket for driving up to 15 mph over the speed limit will end up costing $217, including traffic school.

According to Automobile Club of Southern California, over the past few years traffic penalties have increased up to seven times the cost of the base fine.

In Ventura County, about 55 percent of the overall ticket revenue goes to the county, 34 percent goes to the state, 6 percent is allocated between the city and county — depending on where a ticket is issued — and 5 percent goes to crime victims.

Hopefully this will serve as motivation to slow down a bit, come to a full stop and obey traffic laws.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Irma Haldane

Irma Haldane, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, represents buyers and sellers throughout the West San Fernando, Conejo and Simi Valleys with specialization in Agoura, Thousand Oaks, Woodland Hills, West Hills, Camarillo and Westlake Village.

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Jonathan Cabral goes after his goals

Jonathan Cabral (Courtesy of the Acorn)

By: Sheri Karp

The Agoura Hills track and field hurdler recently ran the 3rd fastest time in the nation for the 300 hurdles with a time of 36.83 seconds. On March 4th, Jonathan Cabral also set his personal best in 110 hurdles in 13.81 seconds, which is also a top 10 national mark.

The 6-3, 180 pound hurdler is built perfectly for the sport, but his technique is superb. “Every day I get my technique better, slowly by slowly,” says Cabral. “It’s kind of cool but I don’t let it get to me.”

Despite his lax attitude, Cabral aims to obtain a world record the end of his senior year. He then plans to attend the London Olympics in 2012. Keep your eye on this star, he is doing big things.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Sheri Karp

By: Sheri Karp

Since it’s genesis in August, 2009, the Agoura Hills farmers market in the Agoura Hills City Mall has been a hit. Every Sunday from 9am to 2pm, the market pulls in the community to help support local farmers. The idea is fabulous and the community has thoroughly embraced it.

Recently, however, musicians with amplifies will be allowed to perform at the weekly farmers market. Although no stage is permitted, they are allowing a signer and 2 other musicians to accompany. Given the music is not disruptive, this idea could add a complimentary element to the community farmers market. Look for a change next week when you head over to grab your fresh vegetables.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Sheri Karp

By: Rob Jordan

If you don’t know, there’s been an ongoing battle to build a school over a 71 acre piece of land in the city of Agoura Hills. Heschel religious school owned property east of Chesebro Road that allegedly went into default and will now be sold to the highest bidder. Heschel sought approval from LA county to construct a larger campus that would effectively host 750 students. But, given the current economic crisis, Heschel school has decided to continue operating the 9 acre property currently in use.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Rob Jordan

Great News for Conejo Valley FHA Buyers and Sellers!

By: Rob Jordan

It’s a common scenario for a real estate agent. I have a well-qualified FHA buyer who has been patiently making offers on condos and town homes, but losing every sale for the last six months.  I now locate the property of their dreams, miraculously get the offer accepted, and find the condo project is not FHA approved.  AAAARRRRGGGGHHHH!

But there may be some good news!

A bit of background: FHA is a great way for entry level buyers to purchase a home. FHA purchases only require a 3.5-5% down payment, AND the seller may pay some of the Buyer’s closing costs. By the time you add in the first time buyer’s tax credit, it can take only a few thousand dollars to buy a home!

But the FHA has strict guidelines about property condition, so there is a list of FHA approved condos. If a project is on the list, it’s “preapproved for FHA purchases”.

If a project is not on the approved list, it was possible to obtain an FHA “spot” approval for one particular unit. But this was time consuming and often unsuccessful.

But in an odd turn of events, instead of fighting a losing battle to get just one unit approved,  I may be able to get THE ENTIRE COMPLEX FHA APPROVED at once.

My loan source, Prospect Mortgage, is an FHA Direct Endorsement lender. This means that they have the authority to approve entire condominium projects… not just one unit. No waiting for the government to get involved. My lender can do it all!

To get a project approved the following are the minimum standards:

·  Projects must be at least 12 months old
·  There can be no pending litigation or special assessments
·  At least 50% of the units must be owner-occupied
·  No more than 15% of the total units can be delinquent in their HOA dues
·  Reserves for capital expenditures must equal 10% of annual budget
·  CC&Rs cannot contain a “Right of First Refusal”
·  No more than 50% of the units may be FHA insured

Why the change in approval process? The government desperately wants the real estate market to recover. So they’re doing everything they can think of to make it easier for buyers and sellers to do business. FHA financing is one way to make it easier for Buyers to buy. It does take a bit longer overall for the process, but in the end, it’s worth it for Sellers and Buyers!

So, are you an FHA Buyer or Seller? I may have good news for you! Contact me today!

Rob Jordan is a successful real estate agent with Sotheby’s International Realty/Ewing and Associates in Agoura. He specializes in the Agoura, Oak Park, Westlake Village area. He can be reached at 818.237.4425, or by email: rob@robjordanhomes.com

(This blog based on an article by Brownie Stanisch, Prospect Mortgage, the best darn loan officer in the business! Call her at 818.742.3137. Article edited and reprinted with permission.)

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Rob Jordan

Pikeys in Agoura

There is a new bar in town…

By: Misty Smoke and Regina Cordell

This new restaurant and pub is all things Irish, right in our own backyard.  Stop by for a pint of Guinness and new experience at Pikeys.

This is Agoura Hills‘ first and only Irish pub and restaurant. Come be part of the community and relax, play a game of darts or watch your favorite teams on one of the 15 HD flat-screen TV’s. PIkey’s serves fabulous food and drinks to give you an Irish pub experience.

Pikeys Pub in Agoura Pikeys Pub
30315 Canwood Street
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
info@pikeyspub.com

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Misty Smoke

Misty Smoke, estate agent at Ewing and Sotheby's International Realty, offers the highest level of services with the essential integrity, dedication and knowledge necessary to achieve her client's lifestyle and goals.With over 10 years of sales experience, Misty's success is a direct result of her dedication to individualized service for her clients.

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By: Rob Jordan

The tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence is in it’s final stages. The tax credit applies to sales occurring on or after January 1, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010. However, in cases where a binding sales contract is signed by April 30, 2010, a home purchase completed by June 30, 2010 will qualify. So buyers need to be IN ESCROW by the end of April, and CLOSE by end of June.

Here are some common questions and answers regarding the tax credit. (Information obtained from Federal Government website.)

1. Who is eligible to claim the $8,000 tax credit?
First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home—new or resale—are eligible for the tax credit.
2. What is the definition of a first-time home buyer?
The law defines “first-time home buyer” as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the home ownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.
3. How is the amount of the tax credit determined?
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
4. Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit?
Yes. For sales occurring after November 6, 2009, the income limit for single taxpayers is $125,000; the limit is $225,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return.
5. How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application? Are there documentation requirements?
You claim the tax credit on your federal income tax return. Specifically, home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and then claim this amount on line 67 of the 1040 income tax form for 2009 returns (line 69 of the 1040 income tax form for 2008 returns). Please note that although the Form is titled “First-Time Homebuyer Credit,” this is the correct form for claiming both the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit and $6,500 repeat buyer tax credit.
No other applications are required, and no pre-approval is necessary.
6. What types of homes will qualify for the tax credit?
Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit, provided the home is purchased for a price less than or equal to $800,000. This includes single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. The definition of principal residence is identical to the one used to determine whether you may qualify for the $250,000 / $500,000 capital gain tax exclusion for principal residences.
It is important to note that you cannot purchase a home from, among other family members, your ancestors (parents, grandparents, etc.), your lineal descendants (children, grandchildren, etc.) or your spouse or your spouse’s family members.
7.  I read that the tax credit is “refundable.” What does that mean?
The fact that the credit is refundable means that the home buyer credit can be claimed even if the taxpayer has little or no federal income tax liability to offset. Typically this involves the government sending the taxpayer a check for a portion or even all of the amount of the refundable tax credit.
8.  Instead of buying a new home from a home builder, I hired a contractor to construct a home on a lot that I already own. Do I still qualify for the tax credit?
Yes. For the purposes of the home buyer tax credit, a principal residence that is constructed by the home owner is treated by the tax code as having been “purchased” on the date the owner first occupies the house. In this situation, the date of first occupancy must be on or after January 1, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 (or by June 30, 2010, provided a binding sales contract was in force by April, 30, 2010).
9.  Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction?
No. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in what the taxpayer owes. That means that a taxpayer who owes $8,000 in income taxes and who receives an $8,000 tax credit would owe nothing to the IRS.
A tax deduction is subtracted from the amount of income that is taxed. Using the same example, assume the taxpayer is in the 15 percent tax bracket and owes $8,000 in income taxes. If the taxpayer receives an $8,000 deduction, the taxpayer’s tax liability would be reduced by $1,200 (15 percent of $8,000), or lowered from $8,000 to $6,800.
10.  Is there a way for a home buyer to access the money allocatable to the credit sooner than waiting to file their 2009 or 2010 tax return?
Yes. Prospective home buyers who believe they qualify for the tax credit are permitted to reduce their income tax withholding. Reducing tax withholding (up to the amount of the credit) will enable the buyer to accumulate cash by raising his/her take home pay. This money can then be applied to the down payment.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Rob Jordan