by Blake Mashburn | Jun 16, 2023 | News
California law has changed regarding a lender’s ability to obtain a deficiency judgment after a short sale on a 1-4 unit residential dwelling. As a result of SB 458, any lender who agrees to a short sale, meaning not only the 1st lender, but also any junior lender(s), can no longer require a borrower to owe, or to pay, or take action against the borrower so as to collect a deficiency judgment.
Furthermore, lenders are no longer permitted to require the borrower to contribute any monies, other than the proceeds from the sale of the property, as a condition of the short sale negotiations and approval.
The legislation was passed as Urgency Legislation and went into effect the day it was signed by Govenor Jerry Brown, on July 15, 2011.
If you know anyone having a difficult time maintaining their house payments and close to losing their home in foreclosure, please have them give me a ring at 805-856-9350. I will be glad to discuss with them, at NO cost or obligation, their options.
by Blake Mashburn | Jan 30, 2020 | News
You found a home in Ventura that seems absolutely perfect! It ticks all of your boxes and is visually beautiful. Although the home might seem perfect in every way, it is important to remember that beauty is only skin deep. It is time to do your due diligence as a home buyer and ask an expert to look at the home. A Home Inspector is a professional who will check for any structural or mechanical issues with the home. They are there to protect your investment by disclosing unseen issues that in turn will help you decide whether it is a sound purchase or one you need to walk away from. Whether the home inspection reveals positives or negatives in the home, it is important to always remember that knowledge is power and is important when making as large of a financial decision as purchasing a home. Not sure what to expect during the process? Blake Mashburn is here to help!
Pre-Inspection
The very first step of the process is hiring a home inspector. It is important to do several interviews in order to find the best professional for the job. Ask us for a list of recommended inspectors in the area to make this part of the process easier for you. When you meet with the potential inspectors, find out information about their backgrounds and particular areas of expertise. It is very helpful to review some of their past inspection reports in order to see whose offers the most details and provides informed recommendations for improvements.
Home Inspection
The inspector will now do what he/she does best and walk through the home to check for any issues. This should take several hours. All physical structural elements will be examined as well as electrical and mechanical systems. It is always recommended that you come during the home inspection. Although you will get a report, being onsite allows you to ask questions as issues come up. Always keep in mind that while the home inspection is meant to uncover any major underlying issues of the home it is not a total x-ray. There is always still potential that there could be something wrong with the house that you are unaware of until after you move in. Most of these issues should be minimal, especially when you are working with a highly qualified inspector, but it is best to be prepared to have to spend some time and/or money fixing things within the home after your move in day.
Inspection Report
Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will provide you with the report. Review it thoroughly and discuss the findings with your realtor. This is the moment when you can decide whether the home was really as perfect as it seemed, if renegotiations need to occur, or if it is in your best interest to simply walk away.
Check out our other Home Buying Tips! Give us a call today or visit our website at https://blakemashburn.com/ so that I can help you find your dream home in Ventura today!
by Blake Mashburn | Jan 30, 2020 | News
Help Sell your Ventura home for top dollar and quickly by hosting the best open houses around! Open houses are a great way for buyers to see the home in person and ask any questions that they might have. They play a major factor in whether or not a buyer wants to pursue a particular home. Have buyers scrambling to buy your home! Follow these tips for hosting a successful open house!
- Make it Welcoming – Although it might not seem like much, welcoming touches as simple as a nice doormat on your front porch can set a positive tone for the entire open house. By creating a welcoming atmosphere from the very start, you are showing buyers that you take pride in your home and it is well maintained.
- Clear off Counters – Make sure your home looks like it has ample counter space in the kitchen and bathrooms by clearing them off of clutter. Keep appliances to a minimum on the kitchen counters and put personal hygiene items in drawers or cabinets within the bathrooms.
- Keep it Generic – You want the buyer to envision themselves within the home so it is best to remove any personal items that can be distracting to potential buyers. Consider stowing away photos, children’s art work, and other familial items during the open house.
- Set the Table – Add some class to your home by adding nice place settings to your dining room table. This will also help the buyer envision hosting their own dinner parties within the space.
- Make it Homey – Offering a tasty homemade treat or refreshing drink as soon as a buyer comes to the open house can instantly create a feeling of home. Add some freshly picked flowers or light a mildly scented candle to add some homey elements.
- Don’t Hang Out – Buyers are more likely to feel awkward during an open house if the home owner is there. They might feel uncomfortable looking throughout the home or asking questions of their agent while you are there. Consider only being in the home for a brief moment or not at all when you have an open house scheduled.
A successful open house can be key to selling your Ventura home! If you are ready to sell, Blake Mashburn is here to help you every step of the way! Give us a call today or visit our website at https://blakemashburn.com/.
by Blake Mashburn | Jan 23, 2020 | News
Did you know that home buyers rank top rated schools at the top of their amenity wish list? This is because homes in neighborhoods with top-rated schools elevate the home values substantially! Now, if you have children you’re looking not only for the best home value but also the best educational experience for your child. With the start of the new year, we wanted to share with you the top-rated Ventura County schools and homes available in each of them:
Mound Elementary School– With a solid A rating across the board, this wonderful elementary school boasts a 26:1 student/teacher ratio with 569 students in grades K-5. Search all homes for sale in the Mound Elementary School area.
Loma Vista Elementary School– Again, an A rating for this terrific school featuring a 21:1 student/teacher ratio with 366 students in grades K-5. Search all homes for sale in Loma Vista Elementary School.
Poinsettia Elementary School– Another fantastic elementary school with a solid A rating. Poinsettia offers a 23:1 student/teacher ratio with 507 students in grades K-5. Search all homes for sale in Poinsettia Elementary School area.
Portola Elementary School– Last, but certainly not least for highly rated Ventura County Elementary Schools! Solid A rating for academics, teachers, and diversity. Offering a 26:1 student/teacher ratio with their 606 students in grades K-5. Search all homes for sale in Portola Elementary School area.
Foothill Technology High School– With an A+ rating, this public magnet school offers it’s 1,023 students a 28:1 student/teacher ratio for their students in grades 9-12. Search all homes for sale in the Foothill Technology High School area.
El Camino High School– Featuring a solid A rating, this public alternative high school has 290 students in grades 9-12 with a student/teacher ratio of 67:1. Search all homes for sale in the El Camino High School area.
Ventura High School– Rounding out the top-rated Ventura County high schools with an A-rating is Ventura High! With 2,162 students in grades 9-12, this school has a student/teacher ratio of 26:1. Search all homes for sale in the Ventura High School area.
Would you like more information about our local schools? Looking for a particular type of home in your desired school district? Give Blake a call!
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by Blake Mashburn | Jan 20, 2020 | News
It’s time to stop renting and start buying! Renting pays someone else’s mortgage. Why not investment that money in yourself! While Buying is a major step, it isn’t as far out of reach as you might expect.
In fact, it saves you money! According to Zillow Research, renters nationwide spend 27.7% of their income on median housing costs whereas home owners only spend 17.5% of their income on median housing costs.
Need more convincing to buy a home in Ventura this year? There are many financial benefits to owning a home.
- Home ownership is a form of Forced Savings, ensuring that you have more money at your disposal in the future.
- You start building Equity as soon as you purchase your new home.
- Home values appreciate making it a fantastic Practical Investment.
- It can make you eligible for Tax Savings every year.
- Your Monthly Housing Costs are Locked In making budgeting and saving easier for you and your family.
- It is Cheaper Than Renting and keeps money in your pocket.
- Finally, it increases your own Net Worth. In fact, past research has shown that homeowners have a higher net worth than renters.
So now truly is the time to BUY instead of rent! Work with Blake Mashburn to help get you into your first home today! We can help you find the perfect property to fit your needs. Check out the Homes for Sale throughout Western Ventura County to find your perfect property! Give our experienced team a call today at 805-856-9350 or visit our website at https://blakemashburn.com/.
by Blake Mashburn | Jan 6, 2020 | News
Start the new year off nice and bright! Beat the shorter winter days by keeping your home feeling light and airy. Not only will it have your family feeling cheery but your home will also appear larger for prospective buyers! Here are some great tips to creating a light and bright living space in your Ventura home!
- Clear Space. Removing clutter from your home will help lighten the space by creating smooth lines. Think about what furniture you can get rid off that will help open up the space and make sure you keep items on the counters to a minimum.
- White Walls. Freshen up your home by repainting the walls and ceiling white. Not only will this lighten up the space but it will also make it appear larger!
- Gray & Blue Accents. Add subtle pops of color amongst the white walls with soft, light shades of grays and blues in your decor.
- Light linens. Keep the sun shining bright throughout the home with light, airy curtains. Keep the home feeling cozy with plush white linens and pillows.
- Mirrors. Open up space with the reflection of mirrors. Not only do wall mirrors help but mirrored decor and home accents have the same effect!
For more homeowner and home Sellers Tips, Contact Blake Mashburn today!
by Blake Mashburn | Dec 30, 2019 | News
2019 is coming to an end! Celebrate all the new beginnings that 2020 will bring throughout Ventura County! Whether you are looking for a night of laughter or live music, you will find the perfect way to end the year with family and friends. Ring in the New Year at one of these incredible New Year’s Eve Celebrations!
2020 New Year’s Eve Gatsby Gala Dinner Show & Countdown Party
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 6:00 pm – 2:00 am | Check in begins at 2:30 pm
Location: Ventura Beach Marriott Hotel (2055 Harbor Boulevard, Ventura)
Cost: $149 for FULL Event Pass | $59 for Countdown Party Only
Purchase tickets HERE!
Ventura Improv Company New Year’s Eve Show
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Location: Rubicon Theatre Company (1006 East Main Street, Ventura)
Cost: $36 per adult | $16 per student
Purchase tickets HERE!
East Coast New Year’s Eve with Pete George and Ron Morey
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 7:00 pm | Doors Open at 5:15 pm
Location: Ventura Harbor Comedy Club (1559 Spinnaker Drive Suite 205, Ventura)
Cost: $65 per person (Dinner & Show) | $35 per person (General Admission)
Purchase tickets HERE!
Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach New Year’s Eve Party
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 8:00 pm – 2:00 am
Location: Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach (450 East Harbor Boulevard, Ventura)
Cost: $199 per person (Dinner & Party) | $100 per person (Party Only)
Purchase tickets HERE!
New Year’s Eve Dinner Train
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 8:00 pm – 12:30 am | Boards at 7:30 pm
Location: Fillmore & Western Railway (364 Main Street, Fillmore)
Cost: $110 per person
Purchase tickets HERE!
New Year’s Eve: Experience an Evening Fit for the Gods and Goddesses of Mt. Olympus
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 8:00 pm – 2:00 am
Location: The Greek Ventura (1583 Spinnaker Drive Suite 101, Ventura)
Cost: $99 per person
Call (805) 650-5350 to reserve!
Yachtley Crew NYE 2020
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 10:00 pm – 1:00 am | Doors open at 8:00 pm
Location: Discovery Ventura (1888 East Thompson Boulevard, Ventura)
Cost: $25 per person (General Admission) | $75 per person (VIP)
Purchase tickets HERE!
New Year’s Eve Gala
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Location: Manhattan of Camarillo (5800 Santa Rosa Road Suite 140, Camarillo)
Cost: $89 per person
Call (805) 388-5550 for more information!
Blake Mashburn wishes everyone a very Happy & Safe New Year’s Eve in Ventura County!
by Blake Mashburn | Dec 26, 2019 | News
Kick of the new year by selling your home. What a great time to start a new! If you are looking to sell your Ventura home in 2020, follow these top tips for selling success!
- Focus on the Millennials
Millennials will make up the largest group of homebuyers throughout the year. It makes sense to market to them since they make up such a large share. Knowing what millennials are looking for can help you sell your home. Location wise, millennials are moving to the suburbs but want to have amenities within walking distance. They prefer smaller homes with open floor plans. They also prefer green features and energy efficiency.
- Remember the Baby Boomers
Although it makes sense to market to millennials, you shouldn’t forget about the baby boomers! This generation is looking to stay in their homes as they age. This means that homes that will fit their needs and remain accessible into the future are attractive. Master bedrooms, laundry, and other amenities located on the main floor are all selling points to focus on for this generation.
- Be Smart about Your Smart Home Features
Smart features in a home are now expected. Do not limit your buyer pool by having smart features that only support a single platform. Make sure that the system is broadly compatible so home buyers can use the products they have already invested in.
- Do a Pre-Inspection
Consider doing a pre-inspection. Although many home buyers will still want their own home inspection done, a pre-inspection allows you to find out issues early enough to make repairs if needed. It can also assure buyers that the home is move in ready.
- Do a Drone Tour
Showcase your stunning property and landscaping with a drone tour of the home. Such a tour provides a better visual display of your home and its surrounding area, making your home stand apart from the competition. Talk to your real estate agent about hiring a professional (with required operating certificate) and add this to your home’s marketing materials.
For more helpful Selling Tips, give The Blake Mashburn Group a call today or visit our website at https://blakemashburn.com/.
by Blake Mashburn | Dec 19, 2019 | News
Although not an overly tricky, there is a lot that goes into buying a house. Throughout this process, buyers, especially if it is their first time, can sometimes make avoidable mistakes. Although these mistakes might seem minor they can keep a buyer from being able to purchase their home….and nobody wants that! We are here to help if you are looking to buy your dream home in the Ventura area. Here are the most 7 commonly made home buying mistakes and ways for you to avoid them in the new year!
#1 Delaying Financing
Avoid this mistake by first meeting with a mortgage lender to find out what financing options are available to you. This will allow you to set your budget.
#2 Using an Unreliable/Fake Lender
Avoid this mistake by asking your realtor for recommendations of mortgage lenders. Also do some of your own research so you understand the basics of a mortgage and can identify a fraud.
#3 You get Pre-Qualified and not Pre-Approved
Avoid this mistake by working towards pre-approval, in order to show that your financing is ready for purchasing a home.
#4 Searching Outside Your Budget
Avoid this mistake by knowing exactly the financing available to you through your mortgage lender. Stick within the budget you are pre-approved for and only look for houses that fit within it.
#5 Offering Too Low
Avoid this mistake by not offering a lowball offer in a seller’s market. If you do, the seller will simply go with a different buyer. Trust your realtor to know what the best offer is to make based on the current real estate market trends.
#6 You Go on a Shopping Spree during Escrow
Avoid this mistake by buying anything big until after you have closed on your new home. Although you have pre-approval, your finances are not 100% secure. In fact, your lender will double check your finances right before closing to make sure you still qualify. If you have suddenly opened new credit accounts or purchased a big ticket item, such as a car, appliances, etc, it could change your debt to income ratio and affect your loan qualification.
#7 Not Having the Money to Cover Closing Costs
Avoid this mistake by working closing costs into your budget from the very beginning. Get an estimate from your mortgage lender of closing costs before you put in your offer on the house so that you have the necessary funds.
Now that you know how to avoid these common buyers mistakes, you are ready to BUY your dream home in Ventura County in 2020! Give Blake Mashburn a call today or visit our website at https://blakemashburn.com/ so we can help make your dreams a reality!
by Blake Mashburn | Dec 12, 2019 | News
While the house may be the thing, it isn’t the only thing to consider during your home search. Location is everything! You want to find the perfect neighborhood to call home. Luckily for you, Ventura is filled with those! With Pierpont Beach, Ventura Heights, Ventura Keys, and so many more, homebuyers can find a particular neighborhood to fit their every needs. With so many great neighborhoods, though, how can you ever narrow it down?
Here are 5 factors to consider when choosing your perfect Ventura neighborhood!
1. Property Taxes
Property taxes are an additional expense that you need to consider and budget for. Check the listing information to learn the taxes for a specific home.
2. Property Value
Home values are important for your immediate needs as well as into the future. Be sure to learn the comps for similar properties in the neighborhood to make sure the home you are interested in is priced correctly.
3. Safety and Crime
Safety is a top priority. You want to make sure that your home and your family are safe. Learn more about the crime levels in particular neighborhoods by checking third-party websites like City-Data and CrimeReports™. You want to check for the neighborhood you will be living in as well as those immediately surrounding it. Determine what level of crime you feel comfortable with based on the information you gather.
4. Topography and Geography
Desirable geographic features, such as waterfront or hillside properties, will likely cost you more. Consider whether these outside features are a priority for you. In California, it is also very important to be aware of danger-prone areas and insurance needs when scouting neighborhoods.
5. School Zones
Strong schools in the neighborhood are an obvious necessity if you have or are planning on having kids. However, they are beneficial to all home owners as they increase property values throughout the neighborhood. Nearby parks and community centers can also add value.
Want to learn more about a particular Ventura neighborhood or interested in Buying a home? Give Blake Mashburn a call today or visit our website at https://blakemashburn.com/.
