Archive for the ‘Real Estate’ Category

Living in Marietta

Tuesday, January 26, 2010
posted by Frank Stevens 11:34 AM

Living in Marietta

If you are thinking of making a move to the Atlanta area, Marietta is a city to consider. As the largest suburb in the metro Atlanta area and located in Cobb County, Marietta is an energetic city that has the charm of a small town and big-city opportunities.

Marietta offers a moderate cost of living and pleasant climate throughout the year. The median home price is around $195,000 and there are a variety of homes to choose from single-family homes to beautiful custom homes to townhomes and condominiums. It’s beautiful parks and quaint streets make Marietta an attractive community for residents and visitors alike.

For visitors, Marietta is a great getaway. Enjoy a stay at one of the many quaint bed and breakfast inns. Glover Park, the cities turn-of-the-century town sqaure, is filled with specialty shops and a variety of restaurants for your dining pleasure. If you enjoy tours, Marietta offers a few to help you learn more about it’s cities history. Take the Ghost of Marietta tour that takes you through the streets and guides you by antebellum mansions and civil war memorials. Another option would be to take the the Historic Marietta Trolley hour-long tour that narrates you through historic Marietta. If you’d rather be on your own, stop by the Marietta Welcome Center and pick up a walking tour brochure so that you can explore the streets at your leisure.

The Glover Park sqaure is full of speciality shops and museums. The Marietta Museum of History tells the story of the development and people of Marietta and Cobb County. Its galleries showcase a variety of artifacts from the 19th and 20th century clothing and accessories to Civil War weapons. The Theatre in the Square is a former cotton warehouse that is now an intimate 225 seat facility that features Broadway caliber productions. It has been called “the most charming performing spaces in the Southeast” by Southern Living Magazine

There are many reasons to move to Marietta. It’s transportation system helps make getting around and to other cities a breeze. It’s excellent education system is another big draw to the city for yourself and your family. The city provides learning for all citizens. Colleges in the area offering higher education include Southern Polytechnic State University, Chattahoochee Technical College and Life University that provide education for 20,000 students a year.

The city and county business landscape encompasses manufacturing and distribution, service industries and retailers. The booming service economy and the large migration of Northern companies into the South have brought lots of opportunity for employment for the area.

Tourism is another large supporting industry in Cobb County and is the second most popular visitor destination in Georgia. More than 4 million visitors a year experience the area’s attractions and stay in its hotels. Tourism in the area is still experiencing major growth, and is responsible for nearly 40,000 direct and indirect jobs in the county.

The cities history and charm coupled with it’s thriving economy, excellent schools and affordable living, make Marrieta an ideal community to make roots.

Scottsdale’s Diverse Economy

Tuesday, January 26, 2010
posted by Frank Stevens 11:21 AM

Scottsdale’s Diverse Economy

Relocating to Scottsdale can be an exciting time. Voted as one of the Most Livable Cities by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, it consistently is named among the top cities in the country to live, raise a family or retire. If you are relocating for a new job, then you can focus on finding a new home and learning about your new city. However, for those of you who have not found that perfect job, Scottsdale has a lot of opportunity for you to find a job that fits your experience and passion. Four major sectors dominate the job landscape in Scottsdale.

Scottsdale has a large and diverse economy. Tourism and seasonal residents are major driving forces. Scottsdale’s ideal climate brings seasonal residents who want to get away from the cold in the winter. Golf is another reason people flock to Scottsdale from all over the world. Retail trade and accommodations and food services, healthcare and social assistance are some of the largest employers in this area. As a result, there are plenty of opportunities to find a job within this sector.

If your experience lies within the High-Technology sector, Scottsdale has quite a bit to choose from. This includes wholesale trade, information, professional, scientific and technical services. Trax Technologies, Qcm Technologies and Alanco Technologies are just a few of the employers in this sector that average between five and twenty million dollars annual. Motorola is a Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact and is known around the world for invention and innovation in wireless and broadband communications. They were named in 2008 as one of the Most Admired Companies by Fortune Magazine.

Another sector is the Healthcare and Social assistance sector. There are approximately over 1000 establishments alone in this city. One of the major employers in this sector is Scottsdale Healthcare. With over 6,700 staff members and physicians that represent fifty specialties, there is sure to be room for growth and employment. Another large healthcare company is the Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic is a pioneer and innovator in medicine, medical research and academic education.

Retail Trade occupations available in this destination city are another large sector. Tourism is the largest sector for this city and this revenue helps to drive the retail establishments throughout Scottsdale. The city if full of opportunities for employment from Old Town specialty shops and restaurants and art galleries, downtown, to the golf resorts, like The Phoenician Golf Resort and Spa.

Rounding out the job sector in Scottsdale is Finance and Insurance. Vanguard is one of the world’s largest investment management companies and is one of the largest employers in Scottsdale. Whether you want to change or advance your career, this company has many opportunities available.

With all these different job market sectors to choose from, your search for a job in Scottsdale is sure to be a success.

La Costa, Living At its Finest

Tuesday, January 26, 2010
posted by Frank Stevens 11:10 AM

Living At its Finest

The name La Costa conjures up images of white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. But, it’s the quality of life that has made La Costa the ultimate resort community.
This city is perfect for those who love the outdoors. There are plenty of scenic trails to take a run or a leisurely stroll through the community. Batiquitos Nature Trail is perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. La Costa real estate options include affordable condos and single-family homes to million dollar estates overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Many residents live here part-time and maintain a vacation home as the perfect retreat. New development is attracting young families and retirees looking for a casual lifestyle.
La Costa is best known for their world famous La Costa Resort and Spa. The resort offers luxurious accommodations and treatments at their spa. The resort boasts of two PGA Championship golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, a movie theatre and five restaurants. Tourists flock to this city to watch major professional golf and tennis tournaments that take place annually.

There are plenty of things to do while in La Costa. From golfing to shopping, there is something to appeal to everyone. La Costa’s proximity to San Diego and Orange County, make it an ideal vacation destination. Only thirty miles in both directions place you close to Southern California’s biggest attractions. San Diego offers museums, fine dining, shopping and access to entertainment. Sea World and the Wild Animal Park are all within easy distance from La Costa. Going north, you’ll find yourself in Orange County home of Disneyland Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm.

Some of the best diving spots and sunsets can be experienced in La Costa. The large bluff-top campground is very popular, especially in summer. The area also encompasses three major wetland habitats. At least 103 bird species, 18 mammals, and 14 amphibians and reptiles live in the area, and many more birds visit during spring and fall migrations. Beside regular boat and WaveRunner rentals, local facilities manage a youth summer camp operation with many exciting activities including surf instruction, wakeboarding, waterskiing, kayaking, waverunners and beach games. Residents get to enjoy the ambiance that living by the beach offers.

Due to the close proximity to the beach, La Costa restaurants offer fresh and delicious seafood. The BlueFire Grill offers exceptional California cuisine. Enjoy music Thursday through Saturday. The Legends Bistro is another dining option in La Costa. With its chic rich interior and the beauty of the outdoors, this restaurant is a favorite retreat for golfers, couples and families alike. They featured a menu of modernized classics that keep you coming back to sample more.

With all that La Costa has to offer, you’ll be hard pressed to find any city in Southern California that offers the same natural amenities.

Old Town Temecula, Your Next Weekend Destination

Monday, January 25, 2010
posted by Frank Stevens 6:29 AM

Weekend Destination

If exploring through historical towns is part of your weekend excursions, you’ll need to make Old Town Temecula your next weekend destination. Enjoy the sense of adventure as you take in Old Town’s many alleyways with a new discovery around every corner.

Old Town Temecula is located West of I-15 between Rancho California Road and State Highway 79 in the City of Temecula. Old Town has been around since 1882 when the California Railroad came through the Valley. As you enter Old Town, you are greeted by timber-lined boardwalks filled with stores with old style charm and restaurants sure to appeal to everyone’s palate.

Begin your day by taking in the many opportunities for shopping. Old Town is known for its antique stores and is filled with an array of specialty stores, exclusive boutiques and art galleries that line the streets amongst the many historical features that make Old Town what it is.

If you are looking for that unique gift for someone who has everything, stop by Cheryl’s Antiques at 28535 Old Town Front Street or Fourth Street Antiques at 41975 4th Street. Temecula Country Store located at 28545 and Old Town Front Street is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and will make you feel like the “good old’ days” with something for everyone.

Historical sites are the main attraction in Old Town. Be sure to stop by the first National Bank of Temecula. The bank first opened for business in 1914 and was the first use of concrete construction in Temecula. The building now houses a fine Mexican restaurant, The Bank, located at 28645 Old Town Front Street.

Another historical landmark is the Temecula Mercantile building, built by Philip Pohlman around 1890 on a lot he won in a raffle. It now serves as an entry to the new Temecula Community Theater. St. Catherine’s Catholic Church is worth taking the time to visit. It was built in 1917 and was the first church in Temecula. It’s a quaint church located in Sam Hicks Monument Park at 41875 C Street and till this day serves as a wedding chapel.

Old Town has an assortment of quality entertainment venues from the popular Old Town Temecula Community Theatre to the many local restaurants that provide informal settings for musical bands and events.

Dining in Old Town Temecula is an exceptional experience. Finish your perfect day with a wonderful meal at one of the many restaurants. The Swing Inn is coming up on its 80th anniversary and offers family-style dining and comforts. Enjoy some local Mexican cuisine and dine in the vault at The Bank. Or, enjoy some fine dining at Baily’s located at 28699 Old Town Front Street.

One day may not be enough to take in Old Town and the Temecula Valley. Be sure to return to indulge in some well known award winning wineries such as Faulkner Winery and Thornton Winery and Las Vegas style gambling and accommodations at Pechanga Resort and Casino.

Living in Orange County

Monday, January 18, 2010
posted by Frank Stevens 10:25 PM

Orange County

Orange County is not only a premiere travel destination, but home to three million residents. With its beach communities and rocky coastal bluffs, rolling hills, the Pacific Ocean, and mild temperatures, Orange County has much to offer.

The county consists of fifty seven towns and cities. Orange County offers a variety of communities that maintain an exciting yet relaxed lifestyle. Some of the most popluar cities are Anaheim, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Hunington Beach and Laguna Beach.. Each city has a lot of home options to choose from the suburbs to golf communities to beach-side living. Although the cost of living might be considered more expensive, it’s certainly not the most expensive in the state.

There are a variety of homes to choose from in Orange County. The median home price is $459,000 and it was recently ranked as the “Best Place to Live” in North America by the Places Rated Almanac. Because of its central location, you can be in Los Angeles or San Diego within thirty minutes to enjoy all the amenities those cities have to offer.

Manufacturing is the largest employment sector here, with seventeen percent of residents working in this field. The retail trade follows in second place, employing just over eleven percent. Rounding out the top three is the sector of professional services with sciences and technology employing approximately eight percent of local residents.

One of the most popular cities is Anaheim. Anaheim is home to the world-famous Disneyland Resort where millions come to visit each year. Heading west you run into another famous amusement park in Buena Park, Knotts Berry Farm.

If you prefer to spend your day exploring the beaches of Orange County, head towards the coast to the cities of Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point and Huntington Beach.. Laguna Beach is one of Southern California’s seaside destinations with a backdrop of the beautiful Pacific Ocean and the colorful canyons. It’s seven miles of soft sandy beaches and magnificent homes perched on the hillside. It’s a dream come true for anyone who desires to live near the beach.

Going North along the coast, you run into the city of Irvine. This city is close to perfect distance from the beach and city amenities. Rated as one of America’s Safest Cities, Irvine is home to the Irvine Spectrum Center, Verizona Wireless Amphitheatre, Wild Rivers Waterpark and 50,000 acres of dedicated open space for the active adult or family.

If you’re thinking of moving, consider a move to one of the many amazing communities of Orange County. You’ll be sure to find activities, entertainment and housing options to fit your lifestyle. With more people looking for “staycations”, Orange County offers excellent job opportunities that can help you afford to enjoy all the amenites it has to offer.