By: Roger Ewing

Our three Ewing & Associates offices have again placed Toys for Tots collection boxes in Calabasas, Agoura Hills and Sherman Oaks.  The collection boxes will remain in place through December 22, 2011. Toys of all monetary value will be distributed to needy children. Often, there are few gifts for children over the age of 10 so a special consideration for these children is always appreciated.

To find our offices, visit the links below:

Agoura Hills Office
Calabasas Office
Sherman Oaks Office

Tina Stern’s Hollister Ranch Property Featured as LA Times Home of the Week

By: Tina Stern

My listing of 114 Hollister Ranch, Gaviota, California was featured in the Business Section of the Sunday Los Angeles Times on 9.4.2011 as their choice for “Home of the Week” (view here). This 108 acre property with 5 structures is nothing short of magnificent. To view the property, see the YouTube video below or view the property website at www.114hollister.com

The legendary Hollister Ranch. Full parcel Listing. Inaccessible to the public, guard gated 24 hours a day. The 14,400 acre Ranch has 8 ½ miles of private pristine beach frontage for the exclusive use of homeowners. Property includes 2 complete houses, 1 guest house, 1 barn-game room and 1 secluded hilltop hideaway. Located approx. 30 minutes up the coast from Southern California’s most charming city, Santa Barbara. Ranch consists of 136 one hundred acre, or larger parcels. Parcel 114 is nestled in its own private valley. Its approx. 108 acres lie on a private road winding through 100 year old oaks, spring-fed creeks & vistas from rolling hills to pastures & the Pacific Ocean. It offers privacy, security & beauty only minutes to the beach. Whether seeking solitude or staging a grand getaway for family & friends, this is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a virtually unspoiled piece of the California dream right on the most protected coastline in Southern California

There’s no doubt about it…

By: Michelle Jeanest

The industry is all about the “F” word–FHA loan, that is! Since high balance loan limits have recently been extended through December 31, 2010 for FHA loans on 1-4 unit properties (up to $729,750 for SFR), the once before cold market has become HOT! HOT! HOT! Buyers with a minimum FICO credit score of 620 can now take advantage of FHA loans with only a 3.5% down payment! The word on the street is out and it is “F”-in good!

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.

Say Cheese!!!

Artisan Cheeses

By: Michelle Jeannest

The Artisan Cheese Gallery located in Studio City is a quaint yet familiar store that reminds me of a small bistro in the countryside of France! Unique and rare to find cheeses can be found here! Their wide selection includes an array of cow and goat cheeses from hard to soft, mild to blue, and creamy to triple creams. This local family run store often changes their selections and it is always an adventure to come! They offer events such as cheese pairings and wine tasting!

The Artisan Cheese Gallery
12023 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
Phone: 818-505-0207
www.artisancheesegallery.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.

By: Michelle Jeanest

Get ready to ShakeOut!

With the purpose of practicing how to protect ourselves during earthquakes, and to get prepared at work, school, and home, California is hosting state wide earthquake drill on October, 15 2009. At 10:15 AM join millions of Californians DROP, COVER, and HOLD!

To register, visit www.shakeout.org

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.

Sunday fun at Sherman Oaks Fair.

By: Michelle Jeannest

Presented by the Sherman Oaks Chamber, this event is one of the largest community event in the San Fernando Valley attracting over 80,000 visitors each year! Ventura Boulevard, between Kester Avenue and Van Nuys Boulevard, will be transformed to a windmill of events and attractions including a Car Show, Beer & Wine Garden, Kiddie Rides, Petting Zoo, and two stages for live entertainment! Expect vendors of special crafts and food from around the world in this one full day event…come and celebrate with the community!

Visit this site for more information:www.shermanoakschamber.org

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.

Tina Stern’s Hollister Ranch Property Featured as LA Times Home of the Week

By: Tina Stern

My listing of 114 Hollister Ranch, Gaviota, California was featured in the Business Section of the Sunday Los Angeles Times on 9.4.2011 as their choice for “Home of the Week” (view here). This 108 acre property with 5 structures is nothing short of magnificent. To view the property, see the YouTube video below or view the property website at www.114hollister.com

The legendary Hollister Ranch. Full parcel Listing. Inaccessible to the public, guard gated 24 hours a day. The 14,400 acre Ranch has 8 ½ miles of private pristine beach frontage for the exclusive use of homeowners. Property includes 2 complete houses, 1 guest house, 1 barn-game room and 1 secluded hilltop hideaway. Located approx. 30 minutes up the coast from Southern California’s most charming city, Santa Barbara. Ranch consists of 136 one hundred acre, or larger parcels. Parcel 114 is nestled in its own private valley. Its approx. 108 acres lie on a private road winding through 100 year old oaks, spring-fed creeks & vistas from rolling hills to pastures & the Pacific Ocean. It offers privacy, security & beauty only minutes to the beach. Whether seeking solitude or staging a grand getaway for family & friends, this is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a virtually unspoiled piece of the California dream right on the most protected coastline in Southern California

Miley Cirus buys home in Studio City, Ca

By: Tina Stern

As the listing agent of 11524 Amanda Dr., I recently sold this 5 bedroom, 7 bath home to Miley Cirus in Studio City. This home was featured by the Los Angeles Times as Home of the Week and the NBC show Open House LA. Take a look at this fabulous property below:

Drive up this quiet country lane and discover a one-of-a-kind rare offering nestled atop the hills of Studio City. This astonishingly beautiful setting with lush canyon vistas creates a unique opportunity to toast the sunset with breathtaking unobstructed panoramic views.

The Mid-century modern single story gated and walled compound has been re-imagined from studs to ceiling with meticulous attention to style and design. It combines the ultimate California indoor/outdoor living experience for entertaining and is the perfect celebrity hideaway.

Situated on a private promontory of approximately 1.15 level and useable acres, the home has been beautifully landscaped and features approximately 5173 square feet. An abundance of light floods the open and smart floor plan encompassing the living room, formal dining room and expansive family/media room and kitchen with walls of windows, rich dark stained oak floors and three fireplaces. Additional features include dual zoned HVAC, a 5.1 surround sound family room, iPod docking stations, security alarm system with multiple cameras and phone and data cable. There are speakers located throughout the interior and exterior of the home.

The huge spa inspired master wing includes a sitting room, fireplace, sky light, dual walk in closets, private viewing patio and luxury bath. Enjoy a steam shower, or relax in the Jacuzzi tub while enjoying complete privacy and the peaceful green canyon view.

The expansive professional style state of the art kitchen utilizes top of the line appliances including an imported Bertazzoni range, Rohr faucets, Walker Zanger tiles and Cesar Stone counter tops. The center island topped with exotic wood and the integrated dining peninsula are perfect for grand entertaining or an intimate dinner for two.

Enjoy your workout in the gym while looking out at commanding valley views and the serene saltwater solar heated pool and luxurious pavilion for al fresco dining.

A separate guest unit, 3 car garage and gated motor court with room for approximately 10 cars complete the property.

Close to many sought after schools and minutes from Mulholland, Universal and Warner Brothers Studios with easy access to the west side.

View Floorplan (click on the image to enlarge)

Sold at: $3.9 million

Be prepared for our next quake

By: Tina Stern

If you’re like most people, after every California earthquake you tell yourself, “I’m going to get prepared for the next one.” Then you don’t do a thing about it.

Well, now you can do something about it. Just by reading this page, doing what it says and saving it. Many earthquake experts in Southern California recommend the following tips to minimize damage in the event of an earthquake.

1. Put together a kit of basic emergency supplies. Include a portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit and handbook, wrenches to turn off gas and water valves, and food, water and medication for every member of your family for at least one week.
2. Secure your hot water heater. If your hot water heater falls over during an earthquake, the gas line can rupture and create sparks which can lead to a fire or explosion.
3. Know where your gas, electric and water main shutoffs are and how to shut them off.
4. Secure your tall and heavy furniture. Bookcases, entertainment centers and china cabinets can easily fall over during an earthquake.
5. Put some extra nails in heavy objects that are off the floor such as shelves, mirrors and large picture frames.
6. Hunt for hazard areas in your home. Teach your children to stay away from windows, mirrors and tall furniture.
7. Search for safe places in your home. Show your children how to take cover under a table, desk, or against inside walls.
8. Have a plan to reunite your family after an earthquake. Travel may be difficult and phone lines may be down, so don’t drive or call anyone unless it’s a real emergency.
9. Check for injury or damage after the shaking stops.
10. Above all, do not panic.

Practicing earthquake drills with your entire family and being prepared with the above instructions will put you in a safer position during any ground motion. Stop rumbling about how you’re going to get ready for “the next one.” Prepare for it today. The County of Los Angeles has an Earthquake Survival Program (ESP) with easy monthly preparedness steps.

For more information, call the Office of Emergency Management at (213) 974-1166 or visit the ESP website at www.espfocus.org

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.

Help identify lost possessions in case of disaster

By: Tina Stern

Photographing the interior of your home is a great way to document your belongings & most valued possessions, just in case disaster strikes. While it is never convenient for theft, natural disaster, or fire to damage your property, unfortunate things do happen and being prepared can give you a great head start in rebuilding your life.

To create a digital inventory of your home and possessions, simply use a digital camera to take shots of each room at varying angles, while making sure to include all valuable objects. These digital images can later be used to identify your exact losses.

Photos should be stored on a flash drive or CD-R and kept in the safe or safe deposit box, and this digital inventory should be updated every few years.

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.