EwingSIR | Calabasas Homes | Sherman Oaks Homes | Agoura Homes

Get Out More Often with Half Priced Tickets

By: Dee Nep

Has the Economy got you down?  Do you have less fun these days.  Is your restaurant list now confined to pizza places and drive thrus because of lack of funds?

Well…..get back on track and get out there and enjoy life.

Would you like to see Cats, or Dream Girls for less than $30.00.  How about taking the kiddies to a local interactive stage production of The Emperor  and His New Clothes….for only $6.00…!

Book Jazz, Comedy, Performing Arts, Concerts, Food events and Sports (yes guys….sporting events)…  with the click of a button and your credit card.  Your tickets will be at will-call for pick-up.  Believe it or not….sometimes events are FREE !!!!

I almost hesitate sharing this gem in fear of mass bookings for entertainment that I’m booking up.  But I’ve decided to share this.

Check it out.  Membership is FREE !

www.GOLDSTAR.com

Don’t stay home anymore and complain life isn’t what is used to be….because…NOW IT’S BETTER !

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.

Tags: cheap tickets in sherman oaks, Dee Nep, Sherman Oaks Homes for sale

Adopt a Golden Retriever in Southern California

These dogs need a home…

By: Karen Lee

If you’re looking for a quality Golden Retriever from a foster home that’s never been kenneled,visit SCGRR.

Their Goldens are temperament tested, socialized and vetted prior to adoption.  Their goal is to find loving, lifetime homes for all Southern California Goldens in need, regardless of condition or circumstance. They strive to build a refuge that serves as a halfway house where each of our beloved Goldens can rest and recuperate.

This organization is really special and I have many friends that have used this service to find their own pet. This is a great place to start when looking for a Golden.

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.

Tags: ewingsir, Golden Retrievers, goldens in southern california, Karen Lee Realtor

Every Man Must Thank his Faults

Words from Emerson…

By: Gary Krieger

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “As every man had ever a point of pride that was not injurious to him, so no man had ever a defect that was not somewhere made useful to him…Every man in his lifetime needs to thank his faults.”  Likewise, the faults of the market offer opportunities to those who pay attention.  And, we must thank those faults and pay attention to what they offer us.

Today on the radio I heard an economist say by 2012 we’ll be back to normal.  Recovery will have taken hold and the stock market will thrive.  Now, we all know that economists are notorious for digging themselves into holes and then explaining how they get out of the holes, but more and more economists are predicting recovery in the not-so-distant future.  That leaves opportunity for savvy people to buy real estate now, before the market heats up again.  And, those who do will likely reap the profits from those purchases.  2012?  2013?  2014?  We really don’t know.  But we do know that historically, in Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana and Woodland Hills, for example, the markets have always rebounded and have always gone higher than the previous highs.  I hope this is helpful…

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.

Tags: ewing sothebys, ewingsir, Gary Krieger, Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, tarzana homes for sale

Tiramisu Ristorante in Sherman Oaks

One of my favorites in Sherman Oaks…

By: Ron Viola

With monthly wine dinners with a pre-set menu and wines to compliment each course, Tiramisu has an excellent aura. This father – son run restaurant maintains a relaxed atmosphere with classic trattoria style selections.

Il Tiramisu Ristorante and Bar was established nearly seven years ago by Ivo Kastelan and his son Peter. Sticking out on the bustling corner of Ventura & Woodman, this restaurant provides a slice of Northern Italian cooking, personal attention, and robust flavors.  To try their special dinner and wine pairing go to there website or simply pop in for a treat.

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.

Tags: Ron Viola, Sherman Oaks Homes for sale, Tiramisu Ristorante

Rolling Stone Restaurant and Night Club in Hollywood

This Night Club and Restaurant will be big time…

By: Karen Crystal

The well known Rolling Stone magazine, knows for its edgy news on aspiring musician and writers are creeping into the nightclub scene. In order to cement their brand in a new venue, Rolling Stone is going big.

Think Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Cafe, House of Blues. If things play out for the Stone Guru’s this place will be popping. According to the owners at Stone, guests will experience immaculate quality of food in a hipper and fancier setting than establishments in its niche.

Next summer, we expect to see this club erected at Hollywood and Highland Center.

To get more, go to the LA Times Article LA Times

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.

Tags: Karen Crystal, Night Clubs in Hollywood, Rolling Stone Restauran

Daylight savings time change spring 2010

2010 Spring Forward

By: Karen Lee

Modern DST was first proposed in 1895 by George Vernon Hudson, a New Zealand entomologist. Since it’s origin, it has been adopted in much of the world. However, adding daylight to afternoons benefits retailing, sports, and other activities that exploit sunlight after working hours but causes problems for farming, evening entertainment and other occupations tied to the sun.  Whether it’s a good thing for our economy is debatable, however, one thing is sure.  On March 14th at 2am, we will move the time one hour forward.

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.

Tags: DTS 2010, March 14th at 2am, spring 2010, Spring forward

Woodland Hills Private School Annual Dinner and Silent Auction

By: Scott Pinkerton

The third annual dinner and silent auction hosted by the Parents Association Group (PAG) for Woodland Hills Private School (Collins Campus) is here. On Friday April 9, 2010 at Maggianos Little Italy in Woodland Hills from 6pm – 10pm, the event will have Poor Boys and live music from the local band Willie.

Some of the silent auction items include dance lessons, wine tastings, golf rounds and photography packages. Each of the classrooms will participate in making a special item for the auction as well. The money raised will go toward purchasing education tool such as books and developmental equipment throughout the year.

Collins campus maintains an enrollment of approximately 200 kids ages 2 through 5. Any donations can be mailed directly to the school 22322 Collins Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367 or reach the co-chair of the event at Email Sara Micheleman to arrange for donations to be personally picked up.

All contributions received by Friday, March 19 will be listed in our auction program.

Tickets are $40 per person which includes a 3 course meal.

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.

Tags: Maggianos Little Italy, Scott Pinkerton, woodland hills homes, Woodland Hills maggianos

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Begins Final Countdown

By: Rob Jordan

The tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence is in it’s final stages. The tax credit applies to sales occurring on or after January 1, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010. However, in cases where a binding sales contract is signed by April 30, 2010, a home purchase completed by June 30, 2010 will qualify. So buyers need to be IN ESCROW by the end of April, and CLOSE by end of June.

Here are some common questions and answers regarding the tax credit. (Information obtained from Federal Government website.)

1. Who is eligible to claim the $8,000 tax credit?
First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home—new or resale—are eligible for the tax credit.
2. What is the definition of a first-time home buyer?
The law defines “first-time home buyer” as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the home ownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.
3. How is the amount of the tax credit determined?
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
4. Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit?
Yes. For sales occurring after November 6, 2009, the income limit for single taxpayers is $125,000; the limit is $225,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return.
5. How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application? Are there documentation requirements?
You claim the tax credit on your federal income tax return. Specifically, home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and then claim this amount on line 67 of the 1040 income tax form for 2009 returns (line 69 of the 1040 income tax form for 2008 returns). Please note that although the Form is titled “First-Time Homebuyer Credit,” this is the correct form for claiming both the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit and $6,500 repeat buyer tax credit.
No other applications are required, and no pre-approval is necessary.
6. What types of homes will qualify for the tax credit?
Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit, provided the home is purchased for a price less than or equal to $800,000. This includes single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. The definition of principal residence is identical to the one used to determine whether you may qualify for the $250,000 / $500,000 capital gain tax exclusion for principal residences.
It is important to note that you cannot purchase a home from, among other family members, your ancestors (parents, grandparents, etc.), your lineal descendants (children, grandchildren, etc.) or your spouse or your spouse’s family members.
7.  I read that the tax credit is “refundable.” What does that mean?
The fact that the credit is refundable means that the home buyer credit can be claimed even if the taxpayer has little or no federal income tax liability to offset. Typically this involves the government sending the taxpayer a check for a portion or even all of the amount of the refundable tax credit.
8.  Instead of buying a new home from a home builder, I hired a contractor to construct a home on a lot that I already own. Do I still qualify for the tax credit?
Yes. For the purposes of the home buyer tax credit, a principal residence that is constructed by the home owner is treated by the tax code as having been “purchased” on the date the owner first occupies the house. In this situation, the date of first occupancy must be on or after January 1, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 (or by June 30, 2010, provided a binding sales contract was in force by April, 30, 2010).
9.  Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction?
No. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in what the taxpayer owes. That means that a taxpayer who owes $8,000 in income taxes and who receives an $8,000 tax credit would owe nothing to the IRS.
A tax deduction is subtracted from the amount of income that is taxed. Using the same example, assume the taxpayer is in the 15 percent tax bracket and owes $8,000 in income taxes. If the taxpayer receives an $8,000 deduction, the taxpayer’s tax liability would be reduced by $1,200 (15 percent of $8,000), or lowered from $8,000 to $6,800.
10.  Is there a way for a home buyer to access the money allocatable to the credit sooner than waiting to file their 2009 or 2010 tax return?
Yes. Prospective home buyers who believe they qualify for the tax credit are permitted to reduce their income tax withholding. Reducing tax withholding (up to the amount of the credit) will enable the buyer to accumulate cash by raising his/her take home pay. This money can then be applied to the down payment.

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.

Tags: Agoura Hills Homes for sale, first time home buyer, Rob Jordan, Tax Credit

Bunko Night at Wood Ranch CC

Does anyone know how to play Bunko anymore?

By: Misty Smoke and Regina Cordell

Due to society’s gradual upward mobility and technology generation, it seems our once board game savvy culture has forgotten all about a stimulating game of Bunko.  If you can’t remember how to play this game, take a look at this rather drudging video and brush up on your Bunko skills.

March 16th 2010 @ 630PM
Wood Ranch Countryclub
Bunko Night
$10.00 Buy in

Tags: Bunko in Simi Valley, Bunko Night at Wood Ranch CC, wood ranch homes for sale

Ask a Realtor

I was recently asked this question on Realtor.com

By: Karen Crystal

“I’m preparing to sell my house and have decided to change the shutter, front door, and garage color. The house is a pale yellow Cape Cod with white trim. Do I trust the Realtor’s instincts or go with my more traditional perspective?”

I answered my stating: “My opinion is that it is best to go with the tradition of the architectural style of a home.  If the style is Cape Cod, then look at photographs in home design magazines and match the paint colors and palette that works with that particular style home.

I also recommend not getting too many opinions. Just trust your instincts.”

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.

Tags: Ask a Realtor, ewingsir, Karen Crystal, lake sherwood homes for sale, realtor.com