For Immediate Release:

Contact:

Stephen Roesler
Director of Social Media
Ewing and Associates Sotheby’s International Realty
818.657.4523
Stephen.roesler@sothebysrealty.com

By: Roger Ewing

Follow @ewingsir

May 26, 2011

Sherman Oaks, CA

In an attempt to unite local eco advocates, Ewing and Associates Sotheby’s International Realty hosted an eco-workshop with the help of actor and visionary Ed Begley Jr. Showing up by way of bicycle, Begley stopped by the Sherman Oaks real estate office to share a few enlightening words regarding the ease and necessity of harnessing green energy in today’s economy.

Eco company Blu Homes, REAS, Cyber Rain and Environmental Solar Design were also in attendance for an evening complete with light fair and wine. Each vendor spoke for roughly 20 minutes and held an insightful session of Q and A. Led by Ewing and Associates’ manger Jeff Biebuyck, also affiliated with Blu Homes, the event hosted approximately 40 environmentally minded guests. From local business owners, former musicians and select real estate agents, all attendees received the opportunity to speak directly with educated representatives of the green movement.

Mr. Begley, a self-proclaimed fiscal conservative, briefly spoke about his journey towards embrace a green lifestyle. A native to the San Fernando Valley, he mentioned his young adult days of putting money aside to make more sustainable choices. Taking public transportation, bike riding, recycling and investing in key initiatives to update his first residence with the latest eco options were just some of his insightful tips. Additionally, he spoke in length about REAS (Residential Energy Assessment Services), as they worked closely with Begley on his latest residential green upgrade.

The event was followed by an informative period of casual networking and further details regarding the scope of each company’s service.

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EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Roger Ewing

70 State Parks Close in California

By: Michelle Tepper

Our beautiful Los Encinos State Historical Park is set to close. Los Encinos State Historic Park, at the corner of Balboa and Ventura Blvd, in Encino California, was, until the late 19th Century, the hub of human habitation in the Southern San Fernando Valley. This five-acre early California rancho includes the original nine-room de la Osa Adobe, the two-story limestone Garnier House, the Reyes Hut, natural springs, and a lake (shaped like a Spanish guitar). The park contains exhibits on early California ranch life.

The parks are scheduled to close September as a result of Governor Jerry Brown’s $22 million budget cuts. This would be a tragedy for Encino – please help us save our parks, by clicking here and “sending a letter to your legislators and the governor.”

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Michelle Tepper

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Tango classes in Sherman Oaks

By: Charise Mitchell

Alright, Tango is fun, but let’s admit to the real reason we Tango. It’s sexy, plain and simple. We go to a Tango class with just a glimmer of hope that inside the studio we will come in contact with our prince charming. Anyhow, if you want to learn how to Tango, or just want to chase fate for a few nights, check out the Tango Room Dance Center in Sherman Oaks. It’s a 6 week, introductory course to Argentine Tango for people who are absolute beginners.

Each Tuesday (or Sunday afternoon) you will learn fundamental elements central to becoming the hottest Tango machine in town. You’ll learn the Tango Walk, the basic 8 count step, a simple turn in the line of dance, how to dance in close embrace, codes of social Tango and basic musicality. In total, you’ll receive 6 hours of instruction which you can redeem on Tuesday evenings, on two Sunday afternoons or a combination.

The best part? After you’ve completed the course, you can always retake it at no cost if you want to refresh yourself.

I’ve taken the class and it’s a blast. I highly recommend trying it.

The Tango Room Dance Center
4346 Woodman Avenue
Sherman Oaks, Ca 91423
818.981.6500

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Charise Mitchell

Searching for a new home or selling your current home can be a complicated and exhausting experience. It is absolutely essential to find a real estate agent that is deeply involved in the business and loves what they do to show you the way.

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Cutting food production emissions by 40%

By: Charise Mitchell

Creating an innovative onsite fuel cell energy system, Universal Studios has made a direct step toward reducing their carbon footprint. The newly installed system, created by fuel cell technology company ClearEdge Power, was touted by Senior Vice President of technical services, Russ Randall. “The ClearEdge Power stationary fuel cell energy system is a great fit for our needs at Universal Studios Hollywood,” he commented. “The fuel cell system is an excellent example of the type of innovative solutions that we adopt to address our environmental challenges while helping to demonstrate that new energy solutions are now available to people who want to make a greener choice.”

I applaud the studio for going eco friendly and hope it will spur some change around town. It would be nice to see all the big companies in the San Fernando Valley follow in their footsteps.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Charise Mitchell

Searching for a new home or selling your current home can be a complicated and exhausting experience. It is absolutely essential to find a real estate agent that is deeply involved in the business and loves what they do to show you the way.

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“Like” BluHomes on facebook for Earth Day

By: Charise Mitchell

Earth Day is this Friday, April 22. To celebrate, for every person who “likes” Blu on Facebook through Friday we will donate $1 to the Natural Resources Defense Council in honor of NRDC co-founder John H. Adams, our advisory board member and recent recipient of the congressional Medal of Freedom.

Please help out and “like” us – the more people that do so, the more we’ll give! (And if we reach 500 people, we will double our donation).

Please tell your friends…and thank you!

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Charise Mitchell

Searching for a new home or selling your current home can be a complicated and exhausting experience. It is absolutely essential to find a real estate agent that is deeply involved in the business and loves what they do to show you the way.

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Million Tree Initiative

By: Sandy Finkel

It’s well known that planting trees remains one of the most ecologically and cost efficient methods to reduce CO2 pollution. Trees prevent topsoil run-off and studies have shown that an increase in tree lined streets could lower the number of children suffering from asthma. Undoubtedly, there are a myriad of benefits to planting trees.

In light of the obvious perks, Mayor Villaraigosa started the Million Trees initiative several years ago. The plan hopes to turn Los Angeles into an urban forest by planting one million trees over the course of several years. With an emphasis on sustainability, local city departments are planting native and drought resistant plants on public property.

Due to the buzz, the city of Los Angeles is offering some incentive to plant more trees. If you are a resident in Los Angeles, you may qualify for up to 7 free trees to plant on your property. Planting trees can provide enough shade to reduce air conditioning use by 20% Not only that, but it beautifies our property. To find out how to get your free trees or to find out more about the Million Trees LA Initiative log onto www.milliontreesla.org

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Sandy Finkel

6235 Holly Mont Dr. Los Angeles, Ca

QR CODES

The latest technology being used to market your home

By: Linda Cardoso

Have you wondered about the black “bar code” squares arranged on a white background cropping up everywhere from billboards to bus sides and a variety of other media? It’s called a QR CODE which is short for “Quick Response” code.

When captured by a smart phone camera this “bar code” takes you almost instantly to a URL or text message. Now instead of messy flyer boxes attached to a Real Estate “FOR SALE” sign, a QR CODE on the sign can deliver high tech instant information about a property. While QR is still in an “early adopter” phase in the US, this technology has had a HUGE uptake in Japan and South Korea. This may be a perfect time to speak to a Japanese audience in a familiar technology.

Check out the QR Code being used on my Hollywood Hills listing. The code is on the For Sale sign and can be captured right from someone’s car!

To find the right free app for your phone go to: Mobile Bar Codes

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Linda Cardoso

How to Help Japan

By: Cynthia Sparagna

Everyone is trying to help Japan in some way. With recent scams from fraudulent organizations attempting to collect donations, here are 4 credible organizations that will put your money to good use.

1. AmeriCares

Overall Rating: Four Stars

AmeriCares is a nonprofit global health and disaster relief organization whose passion to help is matched by its ability to deliver. In times of epic disaster, daily struggle or civil conflict, AmeriCares restores health and saves lives by delivering donated medicines, medical supplies and humanitarian aid to people in need around the world and across the United States. Since its founding in 1982, AmeriCares has delivered more than $9 billion in aid to 147 countries. AmeriCares is able to maximize the impact of each donation due to its gift-in-kind model and the contributions received from pharmaceutical and medical supply manufacturers, as well as our partnerships with local health care providers around the world. Historically, for every $100 donated, AmeriCares is able to deliver more than $3,500 in humanitarian relief to people in need, including medicines, medical supplies, nutritional supplements and other vital aid. Donate to AmeriCares’ Japan relief.

2. Habitat for Humanity International

Overall Rating: Four Stars

Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) is an ecumenical Christian housing ministry. HFHI seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world, and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. Habitat invites people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need. Habitat has built more than 300,000 houses around the world, providing more than 1.5 million people in more than 3,000 communities with safe, decent, affordable shelter. Habitat is founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety. Donate to HHI’s Japan relief.

3. UNICEF-USA

Overall Rating: Four Stars

The United States Fund for UNICEF was founded in 1947 to support the work of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) by raising funds for its programs and increasing awareness of the challenges facing the world’s children. The oldest of 37 national committees for UNICEF worldwide, we are part of a global effort to save, protect and improve children’s lives. Every moment of every day, UNICEF is on the ground providing lifesaving help for children in need. We provide families with clean water and sanitation, we vaccinate against childhood illness, and we help protect children against malaria. We provide nourishment to fight malnutrition, and we care for children affected by AIDS. We protect children from abuse, and we give them an education. We are here to make sure that all children lead a healthy, humane, and dignified life. Donate to UNICEF’s Japan relief.

4. WorldVision

Overall Rating: Four Stars

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. Motivated by our faith in Jesus Christ, World Vision serves alongside the poor and oppressed as a demonstration of God’s unconditional love for all people. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. Donate to WorldVision’s Japan relief.

To assist in the rebuilding effort, the Asian American Real Estate Association has set up a relief fund. You can make a tax-deductible donation to AREAA Foundation Earthquake Relief Fund. Checks may be mailed to:

AREAA
5963 La Place Court, Suite 312
Carlsbad, CA 92008-8823
NAR has also identified four funds that we believe are well equipped to provide disaster-relief services. The star-ratings (four stars being the highest) and descriptions of the funds were pulled word-for-word from the Web site CharityNavigator.org.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Cynthia Sparagna

Cynthia Sparagna, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Fernando Valley. Cynthia was raised on the East Coast and was the middle of seven children.

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Have some fun with the Oscars this year

By: Deena Nissley

Best Steak: Oscar Viewing Party at Morton’s
Watch the big show on a nine-foot HD screen with a three-course prix fixe dinner and Champagne toast.
Make reservations: They’re required.
Sun 3p. Morton’s The Steakhouse, 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills (310-246-1501). $100 per person. Nearby: Versailles; Roger Room; Awash

Don’t Call Me Shirley: Leslie Nielsen Double Feature at the Egyptian
Join director David Zucker for screenings of the classics Airplane! and The Naked Gun.
Oscar watch: On Friday, the Egyptian shows Academy Award-nominated animated and live action short films.
Sat 7:30-11:30p. Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (323-566-3456). $7-11 here. Nearby: Roosevelt Hotel; Les Deux Estate; h.wood

Rock Show: Best Coast at The Music Box
LA native-turned-New Yorker Bethany Cosentino and her band blast out lo-fi surf rock that leaves no doubt what coast they’re referring to.
Video love: Watch their clip for “Boyfriend” here.
Tonight 9p. The Music Box, 6126 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (323-464-0808). $57 and up here. Nearby: Blue Palms Brewhouse; Amoeba Records; Space 15Twenty

Body Art: Love and Paint
Couples getting it on become the paintbrushes for Alexander Esguerra’s works of art. Check it out at this live demonstration.
Really? Yes. Check out some safe-for-work video here.
Fri 9-11p. Voyeur, 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood (323-654-0280). No cover, open bar. Nearby: Bar Lubitsch; Winston’s; Crown Bar.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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While the Getting’s Good…

By: Cynthia Sparagna

The Case-Shiller Index is one of the country’s most popular ways of measuring the movement of home prices. And in its latest rating, which went out in late December, the verdict was: Prices are down. The Case-Shiller report’s 20-City Composite rating was 0.8% lower than it was one year previously; the first year-on-year decrease since October 2009.

In some markets, sales were the worst ever—as the report noted: “While the composite housing prices are still above their spring 2009 lows, six markets—Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, Portland (OR), Seattle and Tampa—hit their lowest levels since home prices started to fall in 2006 and 2007, meaning that average home prices in those markets have fallen beyond the recent lows seen in most other markets in the spring of 2009.” This may make buyers complacent, expecting prices to go down further. And if you’re a seller, your immediate reaction might be to hide under the covers.

But all may not be so negative—in fact, quite the contrary. For one, Case-Shiller numbers, when they come out, have a lag time of several months—the aforementioned batch covers through October. Since then, a lot of positive things have happened. For one, strong consumer holiday-shopping showings boosted big retailers across the country, making it the best shopping season in years. A rising stock market and tax-cut extension has also made folks a little less nervous to open their wallets. And, while unemployment is still a problem, there is some good jobs news as well—initial jobless claims fell to 388,000 for the week ending Dec. 25, down from 422,000 in the prior week (the first time it’s gone below 400,000 since July 2008).

It’s because of reasons like this—increased consumer confidence and slight lessening of fear—that you shouldn’t count on home prices dropping more. Part of it is psychological: If people see the financial and retail markets go up, signaling that the bottom in this particular financial cycle has been reached and things are moving upward, that creates more interest in buying big-ticket items, like homes. It’s normal for a buyer to start rationalizing things this way: If the economy’s starting to improve, this house is going to wind up costing much more at some point. I’d better get in the door now, so I don’t miss the boat.

Yes, there are still plenty of problems. Not just rampant unemployment (despite initial jobless claims numbers), but also a high number of foreclosures, a crowded inventory landscape and mortgage rates that are anything but friendly. But these factors could, ironically, be a sign to buy. For instance, when interest rates go up uniformly over time as they have been, people develop a bite-the-bullet mentality, thinking: “I’d better buy now even though they’re high, because it doesn’t seem like they’re going down any time soon.”
This mentality—of getting in before things move up—is something to think about if you’ve been considering selling. Get your home prepared to sell by having a professional home inspection and fixing major problems that could be impediments to buyer interest. And for buyers: Buying a home is an individual process with many factors at play, so it’s impossible to say that it’s the ideal time for everyone to buy. But for many buyers, a simple saying may very well hold true: Get in while the getting’s good.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Cynthia Sparagna

Cynthia Sparagna, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Fernando Valley. Cynthia was raised on the East Coast and was the middle of seven children.

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