All About Newport Beach

Happy Superbowl Sunday Everyone – Go Saints!

Today, February 7, 2010 is Superbowl Sunday. This is a highly anticipated event every year, as family and friends get together to watch the game. This year it is even more exciting as this the first time the New Orleans’ Saints are playing in the Superbowl. 

These two Superbowl teams arrived at Superbowl 44: The Indianapolis Colts beat Baltimore Ravens, and  also beat the New York Jets in the AFC playoffs. The New Orleans Saints beat Arizona and also beat the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC playoffs (that was one awesome football game).

Whoever you are rooting for, have an awesome Superbowl Sunday and enjoy the game and your friends and family!

GO SAINTS!

Originally posted at NewportBeachRealEstateCafe.com

Run Surf City . . . . Run

The Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach is tomorrow February 7, 2010. The marathon begins at 6:30 am. I have driven by there and they are set up, and there are many participants registering for this event.

The participation for the Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach is one of the largest ever, with over 20,000 participants. Other events include the half marathon, and a 5K run. There is also a children's run. You can go out and cheer on the participants in this run! Hopefully, the weather will cooperate, as it has been raining all day, however there are some blue skies in the distance over in Huntington Beach.

If you want to  spectate at the Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach, you can find the route information and street closure here. I suggest arriving early as there is a large turn out this year.

If I can answer any questions about this event, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949-280-0681

Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com

Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard  Try-Outs Approaching Quickly . . .

This is a reminder to you that the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Try-Outs are beginning this Sunday on February 7, 2010 – that’s right – on Superbowl Sunday! There is plenty of time to take your child for the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Try-outs then go and watch the game! Go Saints!

The Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard try-outs are going to be held at the Newport Harbor High School Pool deck. Make sure to bring:

• Your child’s proof of age.
• 3 forms of identification (i.e. driver’s license, a utility bill).

Be sure you are prepared! Hopefully, your child has been swimming and is ready to meet the requirements set by the Newport Beach Lifeguards. The requirements are to swim four laps – a total of 100 yards in the time set below:

“A” (14-15 year olds): 1:35 (one minute, 35 seconds)

“B” (12-13 year olds): 1:40 (one minute, 40 seconds)

“C” (10-11 year olds): 1:45 (one minute, 45 seconds)

“D” ( 9 year olds): 1:55 (one minute, 55 seconds)

The Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard program is an awesome program. My daughters both participated in the program and I cannot say enough good things about it. It is professional, organized, educational, competitive and definite fun for the kids. My older daughter Heather was competitive in the program, and today is a Huntington State Beach Lifeguard. Although my daughters are past this time frame, the program definitely was something they enjoyed and benefitted from.

The Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Program is held at the Balboa Pier by A Street at the Junior Lifeguard headquarters on the Newport Beach Peninsula. The Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Program begins on Monday, June 28th, 2010 and ends on Tuesday, August 17th.

I have three favorite events that I have enjoyed for the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Program:

• The Hot Dog Dinner – a tradition which is enjoyed by both the kids and their family and friends.
• The Pier Jump – where all the kids line up, and the lifeguards and their support staff are in the water, and the kids jump approximately 30′ into the water. This is NOT mandatory!
• The Monster Mile – this event is fun for both the kids and their parents alike. The kids show up on the day of the “Monster Mile” dressed up like “monsters“! After the parade, there is a competitive one mile run in the sand, followed by a one mile swim back. The kids are grouped according to their age, and they wear swim caps for each age group. It truly is an amazing site. You can see the kids swimming back in the photo below: 

So, this is your opportunity to take part in this awesome Newport Beach program. The try-outs are only in February. You can’t decide in June that you want to be in the program – does not work that way. The swim try-out dates are below:

Sunday, February 7th – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Sunday, February 14th – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Tuesday, February 16th – 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Sunday, February 21st – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Tuesday, February 23rd – 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Sunday, February 28th – 9:00am – 12:00pm

If I can answer any questions about Newport Beach Junior Lifeguards, or the requirements, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949.280.0681 

Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com

 All photographs are taken and posted by Sharon Paxson, copyright© 2009.  All rights reserved. Photographs may not be copied, or reproduced without the express, written permission of Sharon Paxson, Realtor, Prudential California Realty, Newport Beach.  Contact Sharon Paxson for permission for use of photograph, and permission may be granted in writing.

Giant Squid Invasion in Newport Beach

Giant Squids have become very prevalent in the waters off Newport Beach. Anglers are catching these Giant Squids. The Giant Squid on the average weigh between 20-40 pounds, and some being caught are as large as 60 pounds. There are articles and photos of fisherman holding them up, and they are several feet long! Some of these giant squid can be as large as 100 pounds.

There was a representative from Newport Landing Sportfishing told a local newspaper that anglers in Southern California area have caught approximately 400 giant squid since Friday night.

So I am not so sure now is the time to go Scuba diving in these Newport Beach waters – that would be scary to see a 60 pound giant squid!

Originally posted at NewportBeachrealestatecafe.com

Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Try-Outs

The Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard try-outs begin this weekend on February 7, 2010 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The other dates which are held through out the month of February are posted below. This is the ONLY time when an applicant can try out for the program, so if your child wants to participate, now is the time!

The Newport Beach Junior Lifeguards try outs will be conducted on at Newport Harbor High School, Newport Beach, California.

If you have a child who is going to try out for the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguards, then hopefully they have been conditioning for the test. There are several pools to practice at, and the pools are heated in preparation for the Junior Lifeguard try-outs. The kids can practice at Newport Shores Community pool in Newport Beach, Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach, Newport Harbor High Pool in Newport Beach or the pool at Corona del Mar High School.. There are several dates throughout the month of February, they are located at the Newport Harbor High School Pool in Newport Beach, California, and these dates can be found below.

 For the swim try outs, a child must be 9 years old by June 28, 2010 (per the Newport Beach Lifeguards). And you must bring valid identification (for example a birth certificate or passport). Also, you must provide valid proof of Newport Beach residency (for example – car registration, driver’s license, utility bill, or car registration). You need to provide three different items for proof of residency. 

Each group of applicants is categorized A, B, C, D by their age. The swim consists of two complete laps - 100 yards and they must be completed in the following times. The following are the required swim times for each age group:

 ”A” (14-15 year olds): 1:35 (one minute, 35 seconds)

“B” (12-13 year olds): 1:40 (one minute, 40 seconds)

“C” (10-11 year olds): 1:45 (one minute, 45 seconds)

“D” ( 9 year olds): 1:55 (one minute, 55 seconds)

 There are conditioning programs as well. For more information, please feel free to contact me directly. This is a fantastic opportunity for children to learn ocean and beach safety, and summer will come very quickly here in Newport Beach. Just so you know, Huntington Beach has both State and City Junior Lifeguard programs, and I will be posting about those try-outs as well.

There is limited enrollment of 1250 Junior Lifeguards, and registration is on a first come, first serve basis.

The times for the swim test are below, and are held at the Newport Harbor High School Pool (the test will be held rain or shine)!!

Sunday, February 7th – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Sunday, February 14th – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Tuesday, February 16th – 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Sunday, February 21st – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Tuesday, February 23rd – 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Sunday, February 28th – 9:00am – 12:00pm

Both of my daughters participated in the Newport Harbor Junior Lifeguard program, and I cannot give it enough accolades. The children get in great physical shape, and at the same time learn about ocean and beach safety, and make great friends a long the way. My older daughter Heather is now a Huntington State Beach Lifeguard, and has had some wonderful experiences as a result of this program and competes in national Lifeguard events.

If I can answer any questions about the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard program, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949-280-0681

Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com

Originally posted at NewportBeachrealestatecafe.com

Are You Preparing Your Home to Sell?

Guidelines for Home Improvements

 When you are considering listing your home for sale, there is much to be considered to make your home as attractive as possible. This is a common question that I receive from home sellers who are considering selling their home.

The answer and consideration is - any improvements that increase the home’s attractiveness and overall size to the general buying public will increase its value. The following is a list which includes some guidelines to consider when preparing your home to sell:

 · Select a neutral color paint, and paint on the inside and out.

· Paint trim and baseboard for a fresh look.

· Make sure that carpet and flooring are clean.

· If you are replacing carpet, use a neutral color carpet to appeal to the general buying public.

· Consider light window treatments.

· Add mirrored wardrobe doors on closets to enhance space.

· Organize drawers, cupboards, closets, nd laundry room and maintain the organization.

· Use healthy house plants in strategic locations to create a warm feel.

· Add colorful plants to exterior of home, and spruce up exterior landscaping· Utilize seasonal flowers to keep landscaping up to date.

· Trim trees if needed (check with Arborist to be sure it is the correct time of year to trim trees or bushes)· Keep windows and screens clean inside and out.

· Replace screens if needed – and be sure to keep screens clean as well for optimum view

· Keep all mirrors clean throughout home· Make sure glass shower doors are clean and without hard water spots.

· Add decorator mirrors in strategic locations to enhance openness of home

· Keep fireplace clean if wood burning, and add unburned wood.

· De-clutter every room to ensure home looks more spacious.

· Put away personal photos so prospects don’t get distracted.

· Keep your home neat and orderly at all times.

· Make sure your home smells fresh and clean and does not have any odors.

If I can answer any questions about preparing your home to sell, offer recommendations for home improvement, or answer any questions about real estate in the Newport Beach area, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949.280.0681

The Calm after the Southern California Storms

Southern California had a week long of rain last week, and it dumped on us again yesterday in Newport Beach. It did not rain as much as last week, however enough to close the roads to the mountains once again.

It may be inconvenient when it rains, the beauty of the snow on the mountains is absolutely incredible after it clears up. The air temperature has been low enough for the snow to blanket the mountains. 

These are views of the mountains this morning looking out from my Newport Shores deck. It is awesome to wake up and look out and see the snow capped mountains in the distance from the beach.

If I can answer any questions about Newport Beach Real estate, Newport Shores homes for sale, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949.280.0681

Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com

Cameo Shores Market Update – Corona del Mar

September, 2009 to January 26, 2010

Cameo Shores in Corona del Mar is a highly sought after area with homes that are terraced and have panoramic ocean views. Cameo Shores is located further south than the Village in Corona del Mar  and there are approximately 170 home sites. Almost all of the homes have ocean views with the exception of a few that are located on one of the upper most streets. 

The residents of Cameo Highlands also enjoy the beaches and the park in this beautiful area.

Cameo Shores in Corona del Mar homes are all single story, however many home owners are now adding space under the home because many of these homes have such large lots.

There are six active listings in the Cameo Shores area:

4533 Roxbury Road, Corona del Mar – Priced at $3,495,000

4507 Orrington Road, Corona del Mar – Priced at $3,499,000

4533 Orrington Road, Corona del Mar – Priced at $3,650,000

4507 Gorham Drive, Corona del Mar – Priced at $4,200,000

4545 Gorham Drive, Corona del Mar – Priced at $4,295,000

4639 Brighton Road, Corona del Mar - Priced at $11,500,000

There has been one sale in September, 2009, and the information is as follows:

4607 Perham Road, Corona del Mar – Sold for $3,100,000

If I can answer any questions about Cameo Shores in Corona del Mar, or homes for sale in Corona del Mar, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949.280.0681

Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com

Newport Shores Market Update – Newport Beach

November, 2009 – January 26, 2010

Newport Shores is a beach community located in Newport Beach. It is across the street from one of the more popular and desirable beaches in Newport Beach. Also, located near a popular surf store - the Frog House. Also, located near a very popular surf spot called the Jetty is walking distance from Newport Shores.

Currently, there are 10 active listings in Newport Shores.

215 62nd Street – Priced at $699,000

This home features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, located just two blocks from the beach.

329 Colton Street - Priced at $750,000

This home has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and a roof top deck to enjoy the California sunshine.

337 Colton Street – Priced at $799,000

This home has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

222 Lugonia Street – Priced at $899,000

This single family home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

218 Colton Street - Priced at $929,000

This home has four bedrooms and two and one half bathrooms. The kitchen has granite counter tops and updated flooring.

304 Colton Street – Priced at $950,000

This home has four bedrooms and two and one half bathrooms.

227 Walnut Street – Priced at $999,000

This remodeled homes features three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The kitchen is updated with granite counter tops.

342 Walnut Street – Priced at $1,300,000

This beautiful home features four bedrooms and three bathrooms, and the kitchen has granite counters and stainless appliances.

318 62nd Street – Priced at $1,320,000

This three bedroom home is located on the Canal on 62nd Street, enjoy the morning sunshine at this home in the Canal. There is also granite counter tops, and pavers as you walk in.

315 Canal Street – Priced at $1,675,000

This three bedroom, three and one half bath home is on the Canal in Newport Shores. This newer home has granite countertopss and stainless appliances. Also, there are beautiful hardwood floors.

Currently, there is one pending at:

214 Lugonia Street – Priced at $700,000.

There have been six sales in Newport Shores since November, 2009. The sales are as follows:

320 Prospect – Sold for $705,000

340 Prospect – Sold for $705,000

464 Prospect - Sold for $850,000

431 Lugonia – Sold for $799,000

452 Prospect – Sold for $875,000

247 Prospect – Sold for $873,000

If I can answer any questions about Newport Shores in Newport Beach, please contact me.

Phone or Text: 949.280.0681

Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com

Originally posted at NewportBeachRealEstateCafe.com