September 30, 2009

Pleasanton – a place to call home

Posted to Kathy Mardiros

If you are looking for a community that seems to have everything a home buyer could want, consider Pleasanton. Located in the East Bay at the junction of Highways 680 and 580, Pleasanton offers residents a perfect blending of old tradition and new technologies.

In the quaint downtown area along Main Street, you will find a variety of boutiques, restaurants and delicatessens. Time seems to have stopped as you casually stroll down the street popping into the various shops to talk with the merchants and perhaps make a purchase or two. If you are looking for a major retailer and enjoy shopping in a major mall, stop by Stoneridge Mall.

The lifestyle is casual. The Alameda County Fair each July is an event many in the Bay Area visit each year – I know I do! The fairgrounds are home to a number of local and regional events throughout the year. Check out some of the activities at www.alamedacountyfair.com. From antique shows to dog shows there should be something to interest you during the year.

Housing is as varied as the community. From downtown bungalows to large estates, Pleasanton offers a myriad of housing choices. If you are considering Pleasanton for your next home purchase, sign up for Listing Alert on the Legacy web site www.legacyrealestateassociates.com and you will be notified when new listings meeting your parameters come on the market.

Add to the above, Pleasanton is home to Hacienda Business Park, home of many high tech and service companies. Pleasanton boasts strong support for schools and has one of the largest sports complexes in Northern California.

Truly Pleasanton is a place you will want to call home.

Posted by:Kathy Mardiros



September 24, 2009

Catch It Before It’s Gone...

Posted to Annie Nguyen

The clock is ticking and for your benefit, being a first time home buyer, you need to take advantage of this golden opportunity and act extremely fast to meet the deadline to receive the $8000 tax credit offered to first time home buyers by the government. As of July 2009, the lender’s criteria have been updated, which results longer days of close of escrow time. It might expand up to 45 days for closing escrow. That means in order for you to be eligible for the $8000 tax credit, we have to get your transaction started before or by October 15, 2009. Then, we can close the escrow smoothly by November 30, 2009 in time to be qualified for the tax credit.

Right after your escrow day closed, you can contact the IRS to request the Revised IRS Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit.. It might take you at least 45 days to get response from the office

For more information about first time home buyers benefits, please ask me. I will have the right answers available for you.

Posted by:ANNIE Nguyen



September 24, 2009

How much benefit is there from eating a single tomato?

Posted to Annie Nguyen

Tomato comes from a word in the Nahuatl language, tomatl. We sometimes pronounce it either as Tuh-MAY-toh or Tuh-MAH-to. People often wonder if tomato is a fruit or a vegetable? Tomato is actually a fruit that forms from the flower. However it is often considered as a vegetable as its natural taste is less sweet than other kinds of fruit and because it is often used in conjunction with other vegetables in salads and many varieties of dishes to enhance the flavors.

Tomato originates from Central and South America to southern North America and also from Mexico to Peru. Tomato was introduced to the United Sates by Colonel Robert Gibbon Johnson, a New Jersey gentleman who brought them back from a trip overseas in early 1800.

Today tomatoes are grown widely all over the world. More than 125 tons of tomatoes have been produced in the world today. The largest producer is China, followed by the United States and Turkey. The tomato plant is one of the most common home garden plants found in the U.S. Most tomato plants yield tomatoes with red colors but there are also different varieties of tomato plants which produce yellow, orange, pink, purple, green and white tomatoes. Tomato plants come in various sizes from small cherry or grape tomatoes to elongated plum tomatoes. There are other varieties of tomatoes which are hybrids and heirloom tomatoes which have special characteristics that make them more disease resistant while also producing very tasty and flavorful fruits. They have been increasingly popular among home gardeners and organic producers. Tomatoes are the state vegetable of New Jersey, and in Arkansas, the tomato is both the state fruit and state vegetable. In the state of Ohio, since 1965 tomato juice has been claimed as the official beverage.

There are two types of tomato plants - determinate and indeterminate. The type dictates the growth cycle of the plants. The Determinate have vines that grow to a determined point then stop completely. This makes the plants become more compact and bushy as bush tomatoes. The Indeterminate tomatoes grow in the form of crawling vines. Their vines continue to grow lengthy and often need support to stand straight. Determinate plants tend to yield early tomatoes, while Indeterminate ones often produce a later fruit. Determinate tomatoes are good for planting in small gardens or in containers.

Tomatoes often come in delicious, vibrant red colors. The red pigment which gives the red color in tomatoes is called lycopene. Lycopene is located in the cell wall of the tomato . This amazing compound appears to act as an antioxidant which can help to neutralize free radicals that can damage cells in the body. Recently, scientific studies have revealed that lycopene may have twice the effects of another well-known antioxidant, beta carotene. Beta carotene is in other red produce like carrots and red bell pepper. Lycopene also fights free radicals that can interfere with normal cell growth and activity. These free radicals may potentially lead to cancer, heart disease and premature aging. Researchers have introduced Lycopene into pre-existing cancer cell cultures to prevented the continued growth of these cultures.

Tomatoes have tremendous nutrient values to human health. One tomato contains large amounts of vitamin C, about 40% of the daily value (DV). They also contain 15% DV of vitamin A, 8% DV of potassium, and 7% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of iron for women and 10% RDA for men. Iron, phosphorus, and vitamin B are also found in tomatoes.

Recently researchers have proven that the consumption of tomatoes and tomato based products actually may prevent serum lipid oxidation and reduce the risk of macular degenerative disease. The curing power of lycopene is not limited to prostate cancer. Cancers such as cervical cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer, and cancers of the stomach, mouth, pharynx, and esophagus have all been proven to be staved off by high levels of Lycopene. They have discovered that lycopene is a powerful inhibitor of lung, breast, and endometrial cancer cells. They also believe that the lycopene in tomatoes can help older people stay active longer.

Tomatoes contain two powerful compounds: coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid which are believed to block the effects of nitrosamines. These compounds are formed naturally in the body. Nitrosamines are the strongest carcinogen in tobacco smoke. The effects of these nitrosamines, are blocked by these compounds, reducing the chances of lung cancer significantly.

This delicious red veggie-fruit is not only beneficial for your health but it also does wonderful works for your skin care. Try to take advantage of this wonderful fruit enriched vitamins to nourish your skin, you will be amazed by the result. For a glowing skin, mix equal amounts of honey and tomato juice and apply on your face and neck. Wash it off after 15 minutes. Or to help shrink enlarged pores, mix 2-3 drops of lime juice with ¼ cup of tomato juice . Apply to your face for 15 minutes and wash it off.

When selecting tomatoes, make sure you choose firm ones with the most brilliant shades of red. These indicate the highest amounts of betacarotene and lycopene. Look at the stem to see if it is firmly attached to the fruit with no soft spot or mushy feeling when touching the fruit. Though eating raw tomatoes is great for you, cooking them releases even more of the benefits. By cooking tomato in a bit of oil, the healing compound of lycopene is more fully released. Tomatoes have a unique characteristic since they don’t lose any of their nutritional value in the high heat processing of making canned tomatoes. That means we can consume tomatoes in any form, either in its original organic form or through cooking. When we eat either fresh tomatoes.or tomato sauce, they are just beneficial as well. Actually we can cook the tomato in olive oil so your body can absorb the lycopene better.

The tomato is so easy to grow in your own back yard. I love to watch these green vines climbing on the trellis heavy loaded with red plumming tomatoes every morning. They taste so delicious fresh picked from the vines. I love the taste of the fresh slice of tomato on the bread with a little sprinkle of sea salt to taste. So yummy. And most of all I love the stuffed tomatoes. Yum yum. Have you tried one before? It is so delicious you can’t stop at one bite.

This month is tomato abundant month. You can get tomatoes at a bargain. I would like to share with you one of my favorite dishes. Try it out and let me know what your feedback is. Thank you for reading my blog.

Stuffed tomatoes:

4 beefsteak tomatoes cut in half, scoop all the meat out and reserve with juice and seed (the flavor is in the seed)
½ cup bread crumb- Italian is good
3 cloves of crushed garlic
1 large onion chopped finely
1 lb of ground pork or turkey or chicken
3 tablespoon of sugar

Mix ground pork (or turkey or chicken) with all of the above ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (1 tsp each)

Roll into 8 balls. Stuff the balls firmly into the tomato halves. Heat the pan adding 2 tablespoon of oil and arrange tomatoes face down. Brown the face of the tomato then turn them back over. Rearrange in pan and add the pulp and tomato juice back into pan. Lower the heat . Simmer for 20 min. Add 1 tablespoon of flour. Mix with water in the pan to thicken the sauce. Add some Worsteshire Sauce or soy sauce ( I prefer Golden Mountain brand soy sauce) for some flavor. Serve with cooked rice or French bread.

Posted by:ANNIE Nguyen



September 22, 2009

Tell me about Sunol, CA

Posted to Kathy Mardiros

When I was growing up, there were towns that my parents used to kid us and say “Blink and you missed it.” Today Sunol while not so small that if you blink you will miss it is a wonderful little East Bay community of about 1250 residents. Sunol was originally ranch and agricultural land and with its location a prime vacation spot for city dwellers.

One of the most distinctive architectural wonders of the area is located in Sunol. The Water Temple designed by Willis Polk so people could celebrate the “meeting of the waters”. The Water Temple is owned by the City of San Francisco Water District and after years of neglect has been rehabilitated and is once again open to the public. Learn more about the Water Temple at http://www.sunol.org/temple.html.

Downtown Sunol has many quaint businesses and a very popular repertory theater group. Take a stroll down the streets and residents will offer a friendly hello and be willing to answer your questions about the town and area.

Sunol is a popular destination of hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians in the vast Sunol Wilderness area. The park is part of the East Bay Regional Park District and park maps and information can be found at http://www.ebparks.org/parks/sunol.

Real estate is often hard to come by in Sunol. At any one time there are few properties available – maybe a cabin type home or a large estate on acreage.

If you are thinking Sunol might be a great place to live, sign up for the Property Alerts on the Legacy web site at www.legacyrealestateassociates.com as listings are rare and you will want to know as soon as something comes on the market.
Posted by:Kathy Mardiros



September 18, 2009

Why the San Francisco East Bay?

Posted to Kathy Mardiros

When considering a property purchase in the San Francisco Bay Area, why should you consider the East Bay as your first choice for housing? As an East Bay resident for over 35 years, I think the East Bay is the best possible choice.

The mantra in real estate has always been location, location, location. The East Bay is comprised of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Here you will find an easily accessible freeway system, BART running throughout the area, as well as other transit options. For those who travel frequently on business or for pleasure, there are three airport options available – Oakland, San Francisco and San Jose – check each out for carriers and flights.

Another wonderful feature of the East Bay is the variety of shopping and dining options available. Almost every major retailer and big box store can be found in the East Bay as well as delightful neighborhood boutiques and charming regional favorites. Dining is again varied from the traditional large chains to neighborhood favorites – try some of the delightful ethnic cuisines – yum!

Sports and outdoor activities abound. From state to regional to community parks, there is something for everyone. Major league football, baseball and hockey teams are close by and don’t forget horse racing in Pleasanton at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Youth and amateur sport leagues can be found in every community. And there is the new water park in Fremont!

Schools from pre-school through institutions of higher learning are readily accessible. School district information and performance can be found on the Legacy website. Additional courses are available through most community park and recreation districts – serious courses for those desiring a new skill or just for fun courses are offered.

Throughout the East Bay a variety of housing options exist. For those wanting an easy commute there are condominiums and single family homes within walking distance to BART. For those wanting a family oriented neighborhood, there are a myriad of choices. For those needing space, there are properties with acreage where you can keep a horse or two in your backyard. From condominiums to ranches and everything in between, the East Bay offers a housing choice for every lifestyle.

Yes, the East Bay has a lot to offer those looking for a community in which to settle. From rolling hills with scattered oak trees green in spring and early summer and golden in the later summer and fall, the East Bay does offer something for everyone. In the coming weeks, I will be highlighting the various East Bay communities – keep watching!

Posted by:Kathy Mardiros



September 17, 2009

Better Hurry - First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

Posted to Kathy Mardiros, Real Estate Tips

The First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit program is due to expire December 1, 2009. Properties in order to qualify need to close on or before November 30th. Under this program, the National Association of Realtors reports over 1.2 million people have purchased a home.

The California Association of Realtors supports an extension of the program through 2010 and to include all home buyers – not just first time buyers – but there is no legislation right now on an extension.

So if you are a first time home buyer and want to take advantage of this tax credit, now if the time to be actively working with a real estate agent and finding a home to purchase. Give me a call if I can help by referring you to one of our Legacy sales associates or if you are looking to purchase outside our service area, I would be happy to refer you to someone through our referral network.

This is a GREAT program so if you are thinking of buying your first home, now is the time!

Posted by:Kathy Mardiros



September 16, 2009

Happy Home Shopping!

Posted to Real Estate Tips

Hurry…the clock is running out on your ability to utilize the (up to) $8,000 Federal tax credit for first time home buyers. Those who haven’t owned a home within the past three years and who purchase a principal residence between Jan. 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009 are eligible.

To claim the credit, complete IRS Form 5405 and then insert the amount on line 69 of your 1040. Visit www.IRS.org for more information.

It’s a good life!

Posted by:Kay Korbel



September 14, 2009

Home Previewing is a Process Of Elimination…

Posted to Real Estate Tips

Previewing properties for sale can be an overwhelming task. It is hard to keep track of all the features of each of the available properties you visit. At times the available listings seem to ‘run together’ and are difficult to remember. As a buyer’s agent, I help my buyer clients by providing a house hunting checklist. The checklist is helpful to narrow a search and ultimately select the property that meets my clients specific needs.

Posted by:Kay Korbel



September 10, 2009

Emergency Preparedness

Posted to Kathy Mardiros

Yesterday I was listening to the radio on my way to a meeting and the speakers were talking about helpful hints for emergency preparedness. Most of the things discussed have been mentioned many times and people are organizing emergency preparedness kits for their homes. FEMA has a great web site for instructions on setting up your home emergency kit.

Some helpful hints I learned about on the radio include:

  1. In case of emergency text messages on your cell phone as this uses less bandwidth than a phone call. The phone lines may very well be tied up but your text message will most likely go through.

  2. Have an out of area contact for family members to contact. Pick someone outside the local area and family members can check in that they are okay and other family members can confirm that you and your family are okay.

  3. You hear talk about using the supply of water in your water heater but oftentimes the outlet is too close to the ground for a bucket. Think about attaching a hose to the outlet so you can access the water easily.

  4. You hear talk about having a gas meter wrench. But is it easy to turn or do you need to get an extension for the wrench to give you leverage to turn off the gas to your property? Some people suggest testing it now when there is no emergency as the line may rust over time and be hard to turn.

  5. When you stock canned goods in your emergency kit, be sure to include a can opener – it is an often overlooked supply. Now many canned goods have the pop tops but have a can opener handy just in case.

  6. Often pictures fall from the wall and you may have to exit a bedroom into a hallway in the dark walking over the glass shards. A suggestion is to Velcro the lower portion of the photo to the wall as in an earthquake the picture may fall off the hook but the Velcro will keep it firmly in place.

These are just some of the suggestions mentioned. I am sure you have others. Want to share? Post a comment and I will gather them together and do another posting in a few weeks with your suggestions and comments.

Posted by:Kathy Mardiros



September 10, 2009

Attention San Francisco Bay Area!!!

Posted to Area Attractions

How about this money saving coupon special/treatment… at my favorite salon?

On selected/specific dates in September 2009; buy a pedicure and get a manicure FREE at these locations of Pinkies Nail Salons in the San Francisco Bay Area.


click here to view salon locations

Posted by:Kay Korbel



September 08, 2009

The other wine county

Posted to Kathy Mardiros

The Livermore Valley grape harvest has started. The Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association reports that there are about 40 wineries from Sunol to the foot of towering Mt. Diablo. Many wine enthusiasts are discovering the Livermore Valley where the pace is slower, traffic not as much of a problem and the opportunity to meet the winery owner a possibility.

Today the local newspaper ran an article on Livermore Valley’s “personal touch”. Click here to read the article.

Posted by:Kathy Mardiros



September 07, 2009

Tips to Keep You Safe

Posted to

In today’s fast pace, remember safety is key to a healthy and happy life for you and your family. Ponder these tips to help stay safe online, at work and at play. For more info contact your local Police Community Service Officer.

  • Keep your computer safe from viruses by employing one of a kind passwords that use both letters and numbers in upper and lower case
  • Update virus checkers on a regular basis
  • Install a firewall
  • Refrain from opening .EXE files from an unknown source
  • Turn your computers security to medium strength
  • Do not click on hyperlinks in pop ups
  • Never reply to email request for account numbers or other personal info
  • Shop on websites that have secure checkouts
  • Understand the companies privacy policies…how will they handle your info?
  • Always cross cut shred personal docs before you throw them away
  • Take a self defense class
  • Keep an updated first aid kit in your car, include a flashlight, drinking water, blanket and some snacks
  • Program emergency phone numbers in your cell phone with one touch dialing
  • Pay attention when you enter and leave your car, check the backseat BEFORE you unlock the door
  • Always have your keys in your hand or pocket when outside your car
  • Wear your purse around your body, not just over your shoulder
  • Inside an unfamiliar building, note the closest exit upon arrival
  • Name tag info should not be able to be read from a distance, use caution when displaying your child’s name and contact info

The bottom line, think ahead for safety.

It’s a good life!

Posted by:Kay Korbel



September 03, 2009

California Association of Realtors Insurance for First Time Home Buyers

Posted to Real Estate Tips

Here is another important reason to insist that your real estate agent be a member of the California Association of Realtors AKA a Realtor®. C.A.R. has reserved one million dollars to support a new mortgage protection program called C.A.R.’s Housing Affordability Fund or (C.A.R.H.A.F.) The National Association of Realtors has added another $420,000-an insurance program that is used when the buyer looses their job. Here is a short list of eligibility and coverage. For more info visit: www.carhaf.org or ask your Realtor®.

  • First time buyers who haven’t purchased a home in the past 3 years.
  • The property must be a principal residence in California.
  • No caps on income or purchase price.
  • Buyers MUST use a Realtor® in their transaction.
  • Buyers must NOT be self employed or over 70 years of age.
  • For primary buyer, the coverage is $1,500 per month for six months in the event of a job loss.
  • $750 per month for co-buyers in the event of a job loss.

Please note, buyers MUST apply through their Realtor® at the time of the purchase and the deadline for this program is December 31, 2009.

Posted by:Kay Korbel



September 01, 2009

Energy Saving Ideas

Posted to Real Estate Tips

It seems that lately, few of us have enough time or money to spare. Looking for ways to save your hard earned money? Here is a list of energy saving ideas that will leave a bit more in your pocket each month.

Have you got a money saving idea you would like to share? Post a comment to this blog!

Posted by:Kay Korbel