Just Shea When
Harvest Festival
This year, Shea Realty sponsored the Pumpkin Patch at Turtleback Elementary School. The event raised $371 for the Turtleback Elementary School!! My fiance, Bree, and I were there to hand out pumpkins to all the visitors. We are proud to sponsor such a great a event, and look forward to next year! We hope everyone had a wonderful and safe Halloween.
Let’s cheer on our Chargers, and have a happy holiday season!
“Just Shea When”
In 2000, as my Dad was having his final conversation with my daughter, Laura, he said, “My only regret is that I never traveled to Ireland to find my roots.” My Dad was 100 percent Irish and he had always wanted to visit Ireland. And just like most of us something always gets in the way, or time just slips by and he never made it to Ireland.
A few years ago Mary and I started planning for our trip to Ireland to discover our Shea ancestry. In August we made the pilgrimage to our homeland. We tracked down our ancestors back to 1791 and discovered our 9th generation family lived in Cork, Ireland, in the diocese of Kerry, Parish of Dromtariffe, and townlands of Curragraigue. We found the actual land that our Great (8th) Grandmother farmed and lived on in 1810. We located the church where she married and the cemetery she and my Great (8th) Grandfather were buried. We also completed the branch of the tree that included them, their children and all the way to today. Most of the family left Cork, going to Liverpool and then New York; finally settling in Minnesota in 1860. We spent the whole day in Cork with a local driver explaining the history of Cork and showing us the sights and landmarks. It was an incredible experience.
We then traveled to Dublin, Belfast and all the way to the beautiful, breath-taking North Coast!
This was truly the trip of a lifetime. See a few of our best shots (4 out of 528)!
St John’s Church - where the records discovered leading to all our family tree - 3 years of searching; not so easy.
The actual piece of land my Great (8th) Grandmother farmed and lived on. So beautiful, quiet and peaceful. This is what Heaven must look like.
The cemetery my ancestors were buried in starting at early as 1797, with a view of the valley we came from.
Mary and me at Blarney Castle
Sometimes you can get so caught up in work. Challenges, road blocks and things outside your control make it hard to remember what it’s all about. But then, people rally around you and remind you what a great job you do, and why you do it!
These kind words from clients and friends make my heart swell with pride; pride in a job well done and pride for a son well-raised.
Thank you so much for all you did to get Mom’s house sold. You were the best realtor that I have ever worked with – Solid from start to finish. If you ever need any recommendations, let me know.
John M.
As a father of 3 grown sons I want to tell you that Jon is a terrifically exceptional man and human being just walking the face of this planet. We could not have been more impressed with his commitment and professionalism to ensure we were well taken care of.
It was a pleasure to watch him stand tall in your shoes and keep a firm but discreet handle on things. Great guy.
Ron and Susie B.
We can’t thank you enough with all your help getting our home sold. You told us exactly what to do to get our home sold quickly and at top dollar. Not only did you sell our home, but your attention to detail, helping us find a new home and arranging our housing between was above and beyond. If you ever need a reference, please tell them to call us!
Bob and Hope M.
I am excited to let everyone know that I recently joined the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo. I have always had a passion for golf and I am just now finally able to spend some time to really learn the game. Hopefully, I can grow with the game and get really good. My handicap is 30 – for now – so I may not be the best golfer but I’m practicing! And you know what they say; practice makes perfect… Well, as close to perfect as you can get with the game of golf. Even the Pros on Tour aren’t all the consistent with their game!
With that being said, I would love some company on the course! I have met some really great people to golf with at the Country Club but would love to expand my golfing network and meet more people. If you would like to get out and play 9 or 18 holes, please let me know. Visit the Shea Realty Facebook Fan Page to schedule some time!
Don’t forget; it’s almost Charger Season. Let’s Go Bolts!
In my younger years I built and flew remote control gliders with my Grandfather; such great memories. If you have been to Torrey Pines, you can almost always see small gliders buzzing around the cliffs. As a student at UCSD I would take time off and walk to the cliffs and fly my glider for hours (perhaps that is why I only lasted 2 years at UCSD before I transferred to San Diego State?). I have always wanted to become a real glider pilot and for years I started over and over again but life just got in the way. But 4 years ago I got serious and made the commitment to make Fridays my day off to learn to fly, and at last I passed my private pilots test and became an actual pilot.
I have enjoyed the sport so much that I finally bought my own sail plane and now fly almost every Friday out of Warner Springs airport. I cannot tell you what a thrill it is gliding among the birds with only the sound of the wind rushing past my canopy. Thus far my longest flight has been from Warner Springs to Mexico then all the way back to San Jacinto Mountains above Palm Springs and then back to Warner Springs; upwards of 4 hours without an engine. Fantastic! So if you are looking for me on flying Fridays, now you know where I am. Be assured Jon is always there to help with your Friday needs.
Sometimes firing up the grill after work is a little too much; well… work for my taste. I have a go-to summer recipe that fills me up and tastes delicious; especially on these crazy warm summer nights we’ve been having here in San Diego.
Pair this chicken pita with some green grapes and potato chips for an all-around tasty summer treat.
Cooking Light: Little Italy Chicken Pitas with Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette
Ingredients
Preparation
If you can’t find any sun-dried tomato oil (hey, it’s happened to me!), substitute regular extra virgin olive oil. It may not add the same flavors but it does the trick! Additionally, sometimes I make the pita filler and use it throughout the week. Don’t include the cheese or mixed baby greens until you place the filler into the pitas… keeps the pita fresh and the greens crisp.
Before you start your home improvement project, keep in mind what it is you are trying to accomplish. Don’t over extend yourself or your contractor with last minute changes and additional work. Take a step back, remember your original objectives and enjoy a job well done.
To get things started and rolling in the right direction, follow these few simple steps.
- Write it down. Know what you want to do and be as specific as possible. Use your “want” list to negotiate prices and avoid surprises down the road.
- Plan ahead for any required permits.
- Don’t settle for the first contractor. Look around and make sure the prices align, and the timeline is realistic.
- Check licenses and get proof of insurance. References are always a good idea.
- Agree to a payment schedule and timeline. All work should be completed prior to final payment.
If you choose to do a home improvement project, remember the ones that will increase your home’s value and the ones that will increase your happiness while living at your home.
Check back next week and get a peak at our favorite Summer BBQ recipes.
Still thinking about making home improvements? Read below for some more helpful hints!
Room Addition – 80%
For the most attractive return of your investment dollars later on, the added room should be today’s popular family room or a third bedroom.
Remodeled Bath – 60-80%
A master bath is on many buyer’s list, so invest here. If you own only one bath, install two sinks or a double vanity to handle the morning crowd.
Expanded Master Suite – 70%
To keep costs down, try to find extra space to create this wish list item by combining existing rooms and spaces. Heavy structural work entailed by adding square feet diminishes your return.
Deck – 70%
Outdoor living space is a desirable asset no matter where the locale. No maintenance decking material leaves lots more leisure time, too.
Exterior Paint – 50%
Sprucing up tired siding, trim, etc., can take years off the look of an older house.
Heating Systems – 40%
Replace it only if your old system is dysfunctional. Depending upon a buyer’s priorities, a new energy efficient furnace may or may not be a selling advantage.
New Windows and Doors – 35%
Buyers appreciate changes that improve the look of a house, so attractive new French doors, for example, may be a plus. Energy efficient units are an ecological boom, but may be a resale bust.
Swimming Pool – 0% (location dependent)
Unless you live where the sun always shines, such as Phoenix (or San Diego!), this luxury item can detract from your resale profit.
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If you or anyone you know are interested in doing some home improvements, we can help!
We are currently assisting 4 different families with home improvement projects using our contractors and overseeing the projects to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. If you would like to learn more about our fix up teams and how Shea Realty can be of service, please feel free to give us a call 858.485.5100.
A Homeowner’s Guide
Recently, I posted an article on Facebook and Twitter about home improvements and how they effect your property value. Check it out at yahoo.com.
Sometime ago I found an article similar to the one on yahoo but much more indepth. I thought I’d share some highlights with you and give you a good idea for how you can choose improvements that will result in a higher sales price down the road.
Home Improvements as Smart Investments
The following information is from a national real estate marketing publication. It should be used only as a general guide to ranking the importance of these improvements. Many factors will affect the appraiser’s opinion of these improvements including, location, value range of home, market trends, age of home and quality of improvement.
Profitable Investments
After the first year, major home improvement projects return 86% of their investment. These projects range in complexity and cost. Typical types of remodeling and renovation projects include:
Major Renovations
Adding or upgrading bathrooms, kitchens, or other additions; installing new decks or patios; or finishing basements or attics.
Repair Work
Roof repairs, health and safety repairs, and termite damage repair.
Energy-Efficient Improvements
Installation of energy-efficient heating, cooling, electrical, or plumbing systems, and related energy-saving appliances.
Improvements for Accessibility to a Disabled Person
Remodeling kitchens and baths for wheelchair access, lowering kitchen cabinets, installing wider doors, and exterior ramps.
Percentage of your Investment that is Recouped at Resale
Remodeled Kitchen – 150%
A kitchen update can reward a seller with a sizable payback. Just remember though; splurging on fancy finishing materials or sophisticated equipment may cut into your profit. Keep it simple.
Revitalized Lawn and Garden – 100%
A verdant lawn and a modest but colorful flowerbed will entice potential buyers. The few hundred dollars invested may yield several thousands in profit.
Fireplace – 100%
Especially if it is energy efficient, such as a gas-powered model, a fireplace holds the promise of cozy family gatherings around the warmth of the hearth.
Second Bath – 90%
All it takes is a simple 5×9 foot extra bath to make mornings more civilized for most families. But don’t count on a return on extras like a heat lamp or whirlpool tub.
Check back soon for more additions to the list, or subscribe to our blog and get our updates emailed directly to you!
Don’t forget! If you’re looking to do a home improvement, we can help!
“Just Shea When”
For the fourth straight year, Rancho Bernardo’s Shea Realty (“Just Shea When”) has been selected by San Diego Magazine as a FIVE-STAR REAL ESTATE AGENT – BEST IN CLIENT SATISFACTION.
This year’s award provides an interesting twist, though, as Jeff Shea, for the first time, is sharing the spotlight with his son and partner, Jon, for recognition as the best in customer satisfaction by San Diego Magazine. 2011. Like father, like son.
“In only his second full year as a realtor, Jon sold $7 million in property,” says Jeff Shea of his son’s accomplishment. He adds “Every listing Jon acquired, every buyer he found, every door he banged on, it was all new for him. Here’s a guy who’s built a respectable book of business the old-fashioned way – by just working hard, developing relationships, and showing everyone he’s really got something on the ball. Considering 2010 was one of the most challenging real estate markets in 75 years, Jon’s got every reason to be proud.”
“I love this community” Jon notes. “I’ve grown up here, and know the streets and the people. Still, there were some concerns when I decided to go into real estate sales.”
“I was the new kid on the block and expected many of the more established agents to treat me like the enemy. Instead I found every local realtor to be supportive, encouraging and willing to take me under their wing. I’ve been guided and educated on best practices by professionals with decades of experience who respect me and treat me like I’ve been one of their good friends for years.” He adds, “It’s very gratifying.”
“There are a lot of good people out there, and my agency needs to work diligently to show we’re different” says the younger Shea. “I was raised believing that loyalty, hard work, investing myself in the process, and a willingness to look out for the other guy are all important, every day. It’s nice to see that lots of other folks also feel these philosophies have value.”
“Let’s face it – buying or selling a home can be incredibly stressful. I’ve spent the past two years walking through many Rancho Bernardo neighborhoods, literally going door-to-door and hearing both happy and sad stories. I’ve learned a lot of things that you’re not supposed to do.”
Jon continues ”The best news is that I have my Dad’s 27 years of success and experience to share with all my clients. I am incredibly fortunate to have that strong foundation, and it really gives me an edge.”
Key to his firm’s success? “We treat the home and the family we’re caring for as if it were our own. It’s the difference between an unpleasant experience and a happy memory.”
“Jon was selected from a pool of thousands of San Diego County realtors. Over 20,000 people were polled for the survey.” observed the senior Shea.