An unstable economy and fluctuating real estate market have made many Del Mar luxury homes homeowners less dependent on professional help, especially when it comes to gardening.

Gardening offers a host of benefits, it is good for the body, mind, and soul. As an exercise, it builds strength. There are irrefutable benefits of fresh air and a reconnection with the earth. There is also the ultimate gratification of cultivating tiny plants to maturity and the pursuant rewards of wonderful flowers. The long-term rewards come with no trouble. Planting perennials gives gardeners contentment year after year, as they do not have to be planted each year like annuals.

Gardens are valuable contributors for our ecosystem. Planting flowers, shrubs and trees helps catch dirt and dust from pollution and allows for more harmful gases like carbon dioxide to be transformed into clean oxygen.

Much like renovating a bathroom or painting kitchen walls increases worth of Del Mar luxury homes, adding plants boosts value both financially and physically. Real estate agents use the phrase curb appeal to coin the attractiveness of exteriors.

Gardening can create privacy and minimize street noise. It can also create square footage. Add a bench and a gazebo to transform a garden into a cozy outdoor room. Or, place a table and chairs by a wall that stands in the background.

Becoming a gardener might seem discouraging to some, but the long-term benefits far overshadow that stereotype. More and more of us simply want to create and enjoy our own little bit of paradise, and improve our Del Mar luxury homes to benefit our family and those we hold dear.

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

Del Mar remains one of the most beautiful destinations along the Western Coastline. The City is comprised of two square miles of coastal land where you can view magnificent sunsets or just enjoy the lively waters. That is just what the new owners of this spectacular Del Mar luxury homes was thinking when they bought this house at 15168 Rancho Real for $3,193,000.

This Del Mar luxury homes is meticulously designed with family and entertaining in mind, this single-level, open floor plan boasts great scale and incredible natural light. Over 6,400 square feet of living space includes four bedrooms, four baths plus a powder room and pool half-bath. The intimate living area includes an oversized gourmet kitchen, butler's pantry, six fireplaces, game room with theatre seating, a four-car garage and two offices. You can really feel the Aloha spirit exuding from this Hawaiian inspired home.

The master bedroom and bath are spa inspired with two strategically placed fireplaces that provide warmth while entering and exiting the walk-in shower and large soaking tub. Foldaway doors in the living room further expand the living space outdoors to the lanai, pool, spa, outdoor barbecue and pass-through window bar. Fine finishes create warmth including unique granite and natural stone countertops, stacked beach stone pillars, engineered hardwood and cork floors and a warm color palette. Situated on over one acre, this quiet cul-de-sac Del Mar luxury homes was completed only three years ago. Located within the enclave of Sun Valley, one of North County's unspoken treasures bordering the western edge of Rancho Santa Fe, this convenient location is close to the Del Mar beaches, Racetrack, fine shopping and dining, and the best that North County has to offer.  Just bring your clothes and experience the North County lifestyle at its finest!

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

The beautiful ocean views and tranquil surroundings makes Del Mar a highly sought after place. The proud new owners of this eye-catching Del Mar luxury homes, at 14170 Recuerdo Dr., purchased it for $1,260,000. Imagine owning a stylish home at the top of the hill in Del Mar with whitewater ocean views, privacy, charm and architectural flair! 

This splendid Del Mar luxury homes features four bedroom and 3 bathrooms on an estimated 3,346 square feet of living area. This stunning, renovated home features a gourmet kitchen with island, granite countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances, with French doors opening to the backyard with patio, deck and spa.  The home boasts maple wood floors, vaulted ceilings and a large master suite with private balcony, huge walk-in closet and a beautiful bathroom downstairs. In addition to the romantic master bedroom, there are three secondary bedrooms and a light, airy home office with built-in cabinets and bookshelves. The property exudes quality and attention to detail rarely found. The architecture of the house creates a bright, spacious setting with an abundance of natural light, high ceilings and carefully designed floor plan making it perfect for a busy family and a delight for entertaining!

Located in a highly desirable neighborhood, this Del Mar luxury homes is just minutes to the beach, Del Mar Racetrack, Del Mar Plaza and Del Mar's dining & shopping, making this a unique opportunity to live in one of Southern California's most sought after locations. Its close proximity to many different amenities adds to the excitement and satisfaction of living in the beachside community of Del Mar.

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

The recent financial crisis may have you staying put in Del Mar luxury homes instead of moving up. There are some design trends that you can follow for your home this 2010. Recently, designs of kitchens and bathrooms have recently been somewhat more reserved. Functionality is now more preferred than larger kitchens and bathrooms. Households are leaning towards products and features that promote energy efficiency, and flexibility in the use of space. Combining kitchens with family space remains a main concern when designing.  

This is a good thing when it comes to cost savings. The average U.S. home spends around $1,900 every year on utility bills. You can save up to 25% in your bills by making uses of green design trends in Del Mar luxury homes.

LED (Light Emitting Diode) lightings are environmentally friendly lights that give off the same light as a regular 40 watt bulb. They last 50 times longer, making them a cost-effective option for lighting your home.

Toilets make up for approximately 30% of water consumed indoors. Low flush toilets use only 1 to 2 gallons of water per flush compared to the usual 3 to 5 gallons. Converting Del Mar luxury real estate to this type of flush can save you hundreds of dollars a year in water bills.

All renewable floorings are mot manufactured the same, and a knowledgeable homeowner should explore what option best fits their needs. There is a wide variety of materials available for use, like bamboo, natural linoleum, cork flooring, and even wood floors.

Green hues may be bright and uplifting, but according to recent studies, the color green can itself be toxic. The pigments used in green paints contain hazardous chemicals like cobalt, titanium and zinc to name a few. An alternative to chemicals in paint would be low or zero VOC, as well as lots of organic upholstery found on the market today. 

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

The close proximity of Del mar to the beach makes it highly appealing for those looking for a vacation get-away. This scenic Del Mar Luxury Home at 2260 Del Mar Scenic Pkwy that was sold recently for $845,000 is a fine example of prime real estate property.

 The first obvious upgrade in arriving at this Del Mar Luxury Home is the stone paving in the enlarged entry patio, which is a really inviting touch.  The attractive screen door is next which, when opened, reveals a beautiful solid wood mission style front door.  The gourmet kitchen has all-stainless appliances including a 5 burner gas range with decorator hood. There is an abundance of cabinets with pull out shelves, large drawers and decorator glass shelves.  Recessed lighting has been added throughout the house, almost all of it on rheostats.  The fireplace and hearth have been tiled to match the accents used on stairs and entryway.  Upstairs in the master bedroom, wood and glass paned doors are an attractive addition and a T.V. mounting has been added to the seating area, where the fireplace has a classy slate surround. The second bedroom is well sized and presently serves as an office and guest suite. The master bath with its Jacuzzi tub is also tastefully re-tiled and complemented with new cabinets, countertops, hardware and inlaid pebble floor. Even the garage in this home is immaculate with a large area of the floor tiled with vinyl, plus added storage.

This Del Mar luxury real estate belongs within the Sea point community. Sea Point is a wonderful beach community with all the amenities including two pools each with a spa, a large clubhouse, two night lighted tennis courts and a four acre park with volleyball court, picnic tables and childrens' playground.  A great place to call home!

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

Rarely will you ever find Del Mar luxury Homes for Sale as gorgeous and stylish as this one.  This home located at 338 Caminito Cabo Viejo was recently sold for the amount of $810,000.

This elegant Del Mar luxury real estate, with its stately Roman columns and arches, is made for entertaining. Lcated in the quiet and immaculately kept community of Cabo Santa Fe, this light and airy unit boasts a back patio surrounded by lush ferns and roses. The kitchen has been beautifully remodeled with custom trimmed granite, rustic tile floors, and richly stained cabinets. The breakfast nook with patio is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee. The downstairs bedroom is currently used as an office and has a full closet.

Upstairs the haven-like master suite offers a marble fireplace, walk-in closet, Roman tub and separate glass enclosed shower. Light cascades into this villa's living room with high ceilings, Tuscan detailed fireplace and columns, and a view to the beautifully landscaped backyard. The second bedroom is spacious, and features a walk-in closet and dedicated full bathroom.  Cabo Santa Fe boasts a lovely pool and spa, with panoramic views of the ocean and the San Dieguito River Valley.  As an added bonus, it is also close to shops, restaurants and beaches.

Del Mar luxury real estate choices are among some of the most spectacular in the whole Southern California landscape. The beach and laid-back lifestyle that come with living here are definitely the main attractions of California. There are plenty of seaside cliffs to stroll in and caves to explore along the shore, as well.

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

Getting organized is difficult especially in a Del Mar Luxury Home where there are kids or teenagers, or where family members all have busy schedules.

Here are some tips on how to get your Del Mar Luxury Home run smoothly:

1. Hang two set of house and car keys in a place you can easily monitor them in order to always know where your family members are.

2. Keep a small basket in your closet or laundry room for unmatched hose and socks. The partners usually reappear.

3. Use a plastic cutlery tray to bring a little organization into your kitchen junk drawer.

4. Examine the medicine cabinet. Remove any expired medicine and store the most frequently used ones in the kitchen where you can keep track of them better.

5. Do one small household chore each evening in order to free up more weekend time. Dust and vacuum one area, clean a bathroom, de-clutter a room or throw in a load of laundry.

6. Toss items that you don't need or use in a box and donate it.

7. Sort the items in the basement or garage of your Del Mar Luxury Home by person and make each one responsible for their stuff that is stored there.

8. Place an errand basket by the garage door. Fill it with books to be returned to the library, dry cleaning to be dropped off, etc.

9. Set up a place in your home for small, frequently used items such as tape, scissors, and pens.

10. Categorize your video collection by genre. Get rid of those you no longer watch and have the kids make a list of the rest, storing titles by genre.

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

The beachside community of Del Mar has always been attractive to prospective home buyers and tourists alike. This fabulous Del Mar luxury home at 4826 Rancho Sol Ct was bought for $1,350,000. Not surprising for a real estate property of this caliber.

This exquisite Del Mar luxury home was designed with an open floor plan perfect for entertaining. Step through the formal entry to the spacious living room with a cozy fireplace, coved ceiling detail, and easy access to the balcony. The family room features a wall of windows drenching it in natural light, built in cabinets for easy storage of stuffs, and wet bar for entertaining guests. The formal dining room has access to a second balcony and leads into the kitchen. The kitchen is a chef's delight featuring vaulted ceilings, granite counters, stainless steel refrigerator, butcher block island and breakfast nook. The main level is complete with a half bathroom and an oversized bonus room with vaulted ceilings perfect for a den or home office.

The lower level features the master bedroom suite, 2 ample sized guest bedrooms, wine cellar, and a huge laundry room. The master suite boasts coved ceiling detail, access to the patio and backyard, and luxurious bathroom with dual vanities, make-up counter, marble soaking tub, and walk-in closet.

This Del Mar luxury real estate is situated on a private cul-de-sac with an acre lot and panoramic views. It has a wide open area at the back, which is perfect for outdoor activities and recreation. The backyard has a partially covered patio, large grassy areas and scenic views of the valley and polo fields.

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

Del Mar is two square miles of beachside land with spectacular views of hillsides and the sea. It has a vibrant history filled with excitement and pleasure. Explore its beautiful wooded hillsides, magnificent beaches, romantic restaurants, and fascinating shops.

This April 2010, we saw an increase from 66 to 62 in the number of active listings in the 92014 zip code. The average listing price of Del Mar luxury homes, as compared to last month, March 2010, decreased by 5% from $895,709 down to $816,126. The median listing price meanwhile saw a major 25% increase.

There were 16 new Del Mar luxury homes listed this month of April which remained unchanged since last month. The average listing price of these new listings saw a significant 14% increase, from $615,138 to $905,038. The median listing price for these new homes also increased from $1,082,350 to $1,565,000.

The number of sold Del Mar luxury homes meanwhile remained constant. Only 4 condos were also sold this month of April. The average selling price of this homes amounted to $561,250, a 17% decrease compared to last month's $681,000. The median selling price is a major decrease from $1,362,000 down to $575,000.

For those looking to buy luxury condos, this is a good chance to start searching as there are now more choices to pick from. It is also a good time to buy if you can afford to, since the homes are selling lower than their listed prices. So, what are you waiting for? Grab this opportunity now and enjoy luxury living in your very own place in Del Mar. 

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com

Most often, insurance is taken for granted when people think about buying a home. But what they don't know is that it should be one of the first considerations when deciding whether or not to buy a Del Mar homes for sale.

The most important questions a buyer needs to ask before they buy a home are: How much will the home cost to insure? And, will separate coverage be needed for certain disasters, such as flood or earthquake?

Before deciding to buy a Del Mar real estate, several factors that will affect the insurance cost must be considered. Here are some guidelines that might help:

 - Is the home you are buying near or far from a fire department? Homes that are in close proximity to a fire station with professional firefighters are usually cheaper to insure.

 - Check the condition of the plumbing and electrical system. Is it in good or worn-out condition? A poorly maintained system is unsafe and usually costs more to insure.

 - Is there a risk of your Del Mar home suffering wind damage? Know if there is an available private or state-run insurance that covers these risks. A home located on the beach may be more costly to insure than a home located inland.

 - The same goes for earthquakes. Earthquake insurance usually requires an endorsement or a separate policy.

Is the house well constructed and in good maintenance? Homes that are built by builders with reputation are usually made of disaster resistant materials and are designed to better withstand natural disasters. 

For more information on Del Mar Luxury Real Estate for sale, contact:

Shawn Hethcock

Willis Allen Real Estate - Hethcock & Rodger

(858) 755-2280 or (858) 755-6761

valeriepekar@shawnrodger.com