FEDERAL STIMULUS WILL HELP HOMEOWNERS

Despite all the controversy around the economic stimulus package, the intention of any stimulus is be a catalyst-influencing something else to happen. Creating movement in these ever changing economic times is essential and will present excellent opportunities for homeowners.

One available option right now, and well worth the time and expense, is to re-finance your current First Trust Deed. With conforming loans increasing to $729,000, now is the best time in years to lock in a fixed rate on your home. These new 30 year loans come with fixed rates in the low 5 percent range. Looking at your current mortgage, is it over 6 percent? Are you currently in an adjustable rate mortgage? If the answer to either of these questions is yes, it is time to think about re-financing your home. Even if you have done so in the last few years, the savings on the interest rate will cover the costs of the new loan in a matter of a few months. If you have any questions about your current mortgage, or want to know more about the new conforming loans, call me! I can help you get all the right information that will save you thousands of dollars a year.

Current market conditions allow homeowners to reduce their property taxes!

Lately, the news for homeowners has been all about lost values. Here is a way to take advantage of this situation and put cash back into your household. With property values declining, you as a home owner are allowed to take advantage of this decrease in value by re-assessing your property at today's values, thereby reducing your property tax liability.

If you purchased your home in the last 5 years, chances are the current value may be less than what you paid for the property. In many cases, the new assessed value could now be thousands less than the original purchase price. With my help, the process is easy. Many of my friends and clients have received letters in the mail and others have downloaded information from independent companies that charge up to $500 to process these documents but together we can get this done for little or no cost to you. Stop paying higher property taxes today. I'm here to answer any questions you may have about this legal and easy way to reduce your current property tax bill.
Together, we can put you back in control, and remember, be the change you wish to see.

Always at your service, with the guiding hand of optimism,


John

It's a new year....live in the Moment!

2009 will be a year of change and contrast. As we start the New Year, everyone I speak to asks the same question,

"What will the 2009 real estate market be like?

My answer to this question is always consistent. "Buy NOW and take advantage of the increased inventory, historically low interest rates, and heighten seller motivation."

These conditions will not linger nor will they last. In 23 years of selling homes and land in Southern Santa Barbara County, never have I witnessed all three of these conditions come together in unison.
The other part of my message is if you are not in the position to buy or need to sell, take full advantage of the low interest rates being offered and re-finance your home. Again these incredible rates will not be a steadfast benchmark. As inflation pressures increase and the economy begins to re-bound, the rates will rise and opportunity will be missed. Be one of the leaders "living in the moment" and don't waste this chance to place your homes mortgage in a safe and sound future.

Need information on lenders and current mortgage rates? Just pick up the phone and call or drop me an email.

Best Always,

John

Manifest Success - The Ultimate Guide to Creating the Life of Your Dreams

For Immediate Release
Santa Barbara, California
December 1, 2008

“JOHN AND LINDA SENER CO-AUTHOR NEW ANTHOLOGY”

Imagine you have just received an exclusive invitation to attend a closed door "mastermind" meeting of highly successful, powerful, loving individuals. At this meeting, you will be given the wisdom of personal experience, courageous actions will be shared and priceless business tips and personal insights, revealed. All you need to do is simply decide that you want more out of your business, your relationships and your life and open the invitation and say ‘yes”!

As co-authors, John and Linda Sener of Santa Barbara, California are proud and excited to announce the launch of a new book,


MANIFEST SUCCESS- The Ultimate Guide to Creating the Life of your Dreams. John and his wife Linda, together wrote a chapter on their relationship and personal journey through life's joys and challenges.

The book will be released Jan 13th, but you can purchase your signed copy now for $19.95 (plus shipping) while supplies last.

New Years Special - buy 5 books and recieve the 6th book FREE! We'll even personalize your copies for each of your gift recipients. Just send us a separate email to linda@lindasener.com once you have purchased your copies. Order before December 15 to assure it will arrive by the holidays! (expires 3/31/09)

To find out more about Manifesting Success and Peace Everyday, by visit the Manifest Success Day Blog.


Forever Has No Ending…But It Has a Beginning.
~ John and Linda Sener

Opportunity - take action NOW!

More Housing Struggles

U.S. market will stay problematic until at least next summer, Mortgage Bankers Association forecasts. San Francisco Chronicle, Wednesday October 22, 2008


In times of uncertainty, with news headlines being so negative, does anyone stop to read the whole story? NO! Headlines sell the paper and, unfortunately, conversation around the water cooler the next morning is too often confined to just the headlines read and not the content missed. I say this because I too used to be a headline reader and never take the time to read the entire story.

Contrary to what headlines proclaim, Santa Barbara, Montecito, Hope Ranch, Carpinteria, and even North County properties are all selling, and buyers are acquiring some of the best buys these markets have offered in over 15 years.
It doesn’t take long to figure out why so many transactions are being consummated at this seemingly perilous time. Astute buyers are taking advantage of what the rest of the country is running away from - OPPORTUNITY.

Opportunity is the effect created by a combination of favorable circumstances that offer some kind of advantage within there intersection.

Within every disaster there are opportunities and the buyers that take advantage of today’s doom and gloom headlines are those who have read the entire story and understand that a combination of many factors offer some of the best buying conditions - large inventory, historically low interest rates, and high seller motivation.

My point? Don’t be left out, take action NOW.

While many are rushing out the door, be the one rushing in to negotiate and buy! This window will close and it will close quickly and without notice. NOW is the time to take action, take the opportunity.

I have been a realtor for over 23 years. My knowledge and insight of the market are keen and proven. Contact me so I can help you take advantage of this incredible time in the real estate market.

Warren Buffett one of the wealthiest men in the world recently was quoted saying “it’s time to buy America”

It’s time to buy Santa Barbara!

Santa Barbara is blessed with hundreds of incredible dining establishments. On Sunday I, along with friends and clients enjoyed one of the grandest gastronomical delights our city has to offer. Where? Bouchon Restaurant. www.bouchon.net This charming establishment is conveniently nestled amid Santa Barbara’s two most renown cultural venues, the Arlington and Granada theatres www.thearlingtontheatre.com, www.granadasb.org, at 9 West Victoria.

In my profession taking clients and friends to dinner is part of the job. To have a dining establishment of this caliber is equal to dining at one of the world’s grandest restaurants.

The indoor/outdoor dining room is always set to perfection and the setting is intimate and friendly. No snooty waiters here! Lots of smiles and well trained staff are on hand to insure that your dining experience is memorable and enjoyable.

Owner Mitchell Sjerven has created truly one of the best dining experiences one could ask for anywhere in the world. Dinner faire will excite the taste buds from the moment your waiter unfolds the dining menu for your reading pleasure. Add to this and extensive list of California & Santa Barbara County wines as well as a sophisticated list of international beers & ales.

Chef Josh Brown is always available and visible in the open kitchen that allows you to enjoy the delectable aromas long before you have the opportunity to enjoy your first bite.

Every detail is covered and the experience will bring you back again and again to savor each of the delicacies and options offered. Santa Barbara provides many endless choices of ambiance for dinner and entertainment. Bouchon is easily one of my favorites and will be for many years to come.

Make the call and join me with your family and friends for a memorable dining experience and stimulating conversation. The invitation is always open.

Bon Apetite!

A Santa Barbara Riviera “Wow!”

This morning I had the opportunity to tour a classic 1929 Spanish Monterey home (4bd./3.5b) situated just above the renowned El Encanto Hotel in the exclusive Riviera neighborhood of Santa Barbara. The home and property combine to make up a truly timeless masterpiece of landscape and architecture. Designed by Henry Howell and built in arguably one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Santa Barbara the property is situated just above the historic Santa Barbara Mission and and is truly a breath of fresh air.

Drive through the massive wrought iron gates and ascend to the classically understated front entry of this timelessly designed home. If you appreciate the aesthetics of fine living you will enjoy every detail of this almost ¾ acre property. The current owners have taken great care not to disturb the original design but have added features that make for modern living while retaining the grandeur and style of Mr. Howell’s original floor plan. The real treat is when you ascend the back stairs to the expansive pool and guest house, and the absolutely alluring barbecue area with seating for many and fully outfitted for entertaining – a real chef’s and family delight. Sit on the patio and watch sail boats in the Santa Barbara Channel or lose yourself in thought while viewing vermillion sunsets bathing Santa Cruz Island.

This is the type of property that is rarely available and therefore is a rare OPPORTUNITY!

If you are looking for a spectacular and romantic home on the historic Santa Barbara Rivera this is by far and away the answer to your quest.

Call me for additional information and photos.

Hurry!

Santa Barbara Sunsets, Tapas, and Fireworks - The Mesa is Calling You!

480 Terrace, Santa Barbara, California 93109

I've been so excited about this unique Mesa property because it offers buyers such great VALUE with its amazing location and stylish remodel! The 3 bedroom/2 bath home sits proudly above Cliff Drive with guaranteed spectacular views. In addition to a welcoming great room with soaring ceilings, the home features a large master suite with corner ocean views and a sophisticated kitchen - perfect for enjoying comfortable meals at home or entertaining guests in style.

Other highlights of this property include two downstairs bedrooms with eco-friendly bamboo floors and a large two car garage (with additional space perfect for expanding into an additional craft room or office). You can enjoy the private patio and large wrap-around backyard year-round, especially during the annual Santa Barbara 4th of July fireworks extravaganza.

The Mesa is a really special neighborhood because it offers quiet, convenience, and some of Santa Barbara's best parks and beaches. You will be happy to know that the local's favorite source for wholesome and organic foods - Lazy Acres - is located just around the corner. I also go there because I love their fresh bakery and deli items!

There are some great restaurants just down the road at the Santa Barbara Marina. And you'll quickly discover why locals also enjoy the Mesa Cafe - a casual spot with a large selection of comfort foods and modern cuisine. Another fun place to dine any night of the week is Alcazar (parent restaurant of downtown hot spot Milk & Honey) - great tapas and coconut mojitos!

Oh, I almost forgot to mention that his house puts you just minutes from Shoreline Park, where amazing sunsets are scheduled nightly.