Inside ARG
TALES FROM INSIDE A DOWNTOWN REAL ESTATE AGENCY
Tuesday, Feb 21st 2012:
Congratulations to ARG Agent Carole Haworth, who’s daughter Hilary Haworth married Alex Beltran this past Friday, Feb 17th at North Chapel Church at Liberty Station. The Reception was held at the beautiful Community Center of Coronado complete with Mariachi Band, DJ, and dancing by all. Best wishes from everyone at ARG to the happy couple!
 |
Ritto & Hazelton team member and ARG Agent Rachel Taylor & her fiance rang in Valentine’s Day last week at Copley Symphony Hall. They took in a performance of Sleeping Beauty performed by the Moscow Ballet Company.
You can catch up on everything the Ritto & Hazleton team are up to on their BLOG.
Agents Rebecca Roman & Rachel Taylor took a walking tour of downtown this week. They enjoyed leaning the history of downtown, and the old building. Roman adds, “So often we only know the history of cities we’ve been tourists in, we want to know our own city!”
ARG Agent Jessica Freeman & ARG Business Development Manager Dustin Abbott ate at Hive Sushi Saturday with friends, and said they had a blast. “The service was a little slow, but the sushi was good and reasonably priced… I attribute the slow service to going on a Saturday night at 7pm 
”
ARG preferred lender Alliance Direct reminds us, “When the stock market rally’s, rates rise! That is what we’re now seeing – - – not significant yet, but with oil and gas controversy we could see mortgage rates continue to grow over the next few months prior to the November Presidential Elections.” If you’re ready to take advantages of the current record-low rates contact your ARG agent. And if you’d like to get pre-qualified, contact Sam Assael at 858.449.8449 or visit their website www.alliancedirecthm.com
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor)
 |
This week’s post inspiration is a road trip and dining experience that started with author Anne Rice. Her novel, Angel Time prominently features the historic Mission Inn located in Riverside. The Mission Inn becomes a supporting character in this novel and captivated my imagination.
The Inland Empire lacks the draw of California’s coastal communities so I have to admit to never visiting Downtown Riverside in the 30+ years that California has been my home. Ms. Rice’s story telling skills suddenly placed Riverside on the map!
What a pleasant surprise to visit the Mission Inn. This National Historic Landmark occupies a full city block and offers the enchantment of a grand European castle. The Inn has a rich history of hosting presidents and movie stars. A number of restaurants feature garden seating to enjoy the magnificent architecture.
 |
The 90 minute drive from San Diego transports you to another world and was the perfect location to take family out for Sunday brunch.
Pick up the book then check out the Inn. You’ll even find the suite named in honor of Anne Rice on the top level.
Tuesday, Feb 14th 2012:
ARG Agent and Ritto & Hazelton team member, Rebecca Roman, participated in her first sailboat race in San Diego Harbor last weekend. This was the 1st race in the Winter Series with the Cortez Racing Association. She was on the Fiasco II and her team got 6th place in their division. “It seemed like there were 100 boats out there, it was very exciting and intense, and getting to sail under the Coronado Bridge was pretty amazing!”
ARG marketing assistant Jessica Turner spent the weekend in a small town in the middle of nowhere called Las Vegas. We may never discover much about this town because when asked about her trip she said there’s this saying “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” and then walked away.
 |
Big huge Valentine’s Day Congratulations to Ritto & Hazelton assistant Allison Shoemaker who got engaged while on her vacation in Hawaii last week. I think champagne at lunch today is absolutely appropriate.
Also congratulations to the whole team at Ritto & Hazelton on the launch of their new website. YourSDHome looks great!
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor)
Last week I shared that one of the challenges of my kitchen update was locating a contractor interested in a smaller job. By scheduling this work in December, I selected the slowest time of the year in the construction trade. If you can live without a kitchen briefly near a major holiday, chances are you’ll find someone eager for work.
To reduce the time your kitchen is out of commission, it is important to plan for the following:
1. Granite fabricators need everything on-site before they visit the project site for measurements.
2. Slow times in the construction field means retailers are no longer keeping much of anything in stock to reduce overhead costs.
3. Your kitchen sink will likely be shipped from a warehouse in East Los Angeles so don’t delay purchases.
 |
Request your contractor be proactive with the schedule of the granite fabricator and have this step scheduled at the beginning of the project. Get on some one’s calendar right away.
Be prepared to convert your laundry room and utility sink into a make-shift kitchen as I did for 2 weeks. A bit more advance planning on my end would have reduced the time by half.
The utility sink is back to it’s utilitarian function and the remodel hassles are fast a distant memory. My contractor, Clayton did a fine job and was pleasant to work with. I’m happy to provide referrals so never hesitate to call. 619.865.1817
Tuesday, Feb 7th 2012:
ARG Agent Luke Hanson spent the weekend in Scottsdale at The Waste Management Phoenix Golf Open. “This is the 5th year my group and I have gone to see this event, and this year was the best yet. We’re already looking forward to next year.”
 |
ARG Agent Rebecca Roman spent a lot of time practicing and learning more about sailing this week with fellow ARG agent and sailor’s wife Rachel Taylor in preparation for her first boat race on Saturday. Roman adds, “Our favorite place to sail is to Bali Hai for happy hour!”
ARG Agent Jessica Freeman and ARG Business Development Manager Dustin Abbott spent Superbowl Sunday at fellow ARG Agent Dan Larson’s home enjoying the spoils of a fully remodeled and luxurious kitchen. Freeman added “His counter tops are GORGEOUS and his home is lovely. I seemed to have spent more time in the kitchen than I did with the game…and wasn’t just because the kitchen had champagne!”
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor)
I had grown tired of the ceramic tile kitchen countertops and the florescent light box adorning the ceiling. What was “state of the art” in the ’80s was now my “design dinosaur”.
There are a couple of challenges with this undertaking: First is hiring a contractor interested in a small job as they prefer to schedule large jobs that keep their crew employed for a number of weeks at a time. Second is the matter of selecting a time that you can live without a working kitchen.
To make this smaller job desirable to contractors, I choose the slowest time on their work calendar – December. Only a half crazy, price conscious homeowner is willing to have their kitchen worked on over the holidays. This plan did produce work-hungry contractors.
Next week I’ll share important tips to reduce the time your kitchen is out of commission with some lessons I learned the hard way. Everything including the KITCHEN SINK!
Tuesday, Jan 31st 2012:
 |
If I can take a moment to boast -oh wait, this is my blog- I have to say, our office is filled with SUCH creative people. The entire sales force and office staff were tasked with decorating a blank foam-head with their Wildly Important Goals for 2012 at last month’s sales and training breakfast. “I’ve judged the WIGs” Jim Abbott says, “and I had originally thought I’d only be handing out 2 awards, but ended up with 6 finalist! I can’t necessarily call them the winners because there weren’t any losers. I can’t tell you how impressed I am.” The 6 finalists will be announced next Tuesday at the monthly training event.
Last week, agents Jessica Freeman and Monica Ball attended the monthly Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 breakfast dialogue featuring the Executive Director of the San Francisco Planning & Urban Research Association (SPUR) speak about the role of citizen research in city planning and discuss how San Diego can increase the level of citizen participation in how San Diego is developed.
 |
The new M&M dispenser is definitely forming some love hate relationships with many of the agents ::cough:: Rachel Taylor, Michael Long, and Luke Hanson, who come into the office repeatedly throughout the day. “I just can’t walk by it without grabbing a couple… handfuls” , says Taylor.
Congratulations to Ritto & Hazelton’s Spanish Colonial Revival listing, “La Casita de Romantica” which has been featured in the Home section of this month’s San Diego Magazine! Like it? Check out the builder at haciendasdelossuenos.com Want a viewing? Call Nicole at 619.206.1892 or Gina Florentino at 619.884.8785
Alliance Direct’s Sam Assael and Drew Green ventured to Escondido last week to take in one of the annual performances from The Shen Yun Performing Arts. With the mission of reviving traditional Chinese culture, Shen Yun performances are filled with stories, virtues, and fascinating details that weave from ancient times all the way to the present.
 |
Nicole Hazelton connected with Realtors in Cabo San Lucas last weekend… and no, we’re not envious of her weekend away one bit. She visited several resorts and time shares. Including this one at Hacienda Beach Club. “Orange umbrellas? How appropriate! And the view’s not bad either…”
 |
Big congratulations to Jason Molina -pictured during his lab coat ceremony-. His continuing education towards his Phd now enters its internship phase. He will start the first of 3 internships soon. Congratulations Jason!
Tuesday, Jan 24th 2012:
 |
Agents Monica Ball and Jessica Freeman along with Business Development Manager Dustin Abbott attended Governor Jerry Brown’s speech at the Hall of Champions last week. Governor Brown had a very positive outlook for California and reminded the packed audience that California is a state of ingenuity and it is that spirit which will lead us forward as leaders in both the country and the world.
Agent Rebecca Roman thoroughly tested and enjoyed the walkability of downtown last weekend while house-sitting a condo at The Mark in East Village for a client. “I walked to all of my activities which included food and drinks in the Gaslamp and East Village, brunch at a friend’s home just blocks away, Sunday morning Farmer’s Market, running the convention center steps, weight training at the Horton Plaza 24 Hour Fitness, and enjoying Park at the Park with the dog I was watching. I didn’t even lay eyes on my car once the whole time!”
 |
Agents Mike Althof and Maureen Hobbs walk Harbor Drive almost every day but never noticed the fishing boat aptly named “Addiction” until last week. “We saw this line of people circling around a fishing boat, and we just had to know what was going on. Come to find out this local fisherman, Zach, sells off his morning catch every day. This is as fresh as it gets!” You can visit his website for more info. thefishaddiction.com
Last week our President and Broker, Jim Abbott, shot ARG’s first public service announcement for 2012. His message regarding ARG’s stance on 3rd party syndication sites such as Zillow and Trulia can be seen in its entirety on our youtube channel or by following the link HERE.
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor) finds from the week:
“An Immortal Evening”
Today’s posting will take a break from the tradition of sharing hot hotels and divine dining. This past Saturday a group of friends took in the touring Cirque Du Soleil production, Michael Jackson the Immortal World Tour.
As expected, Cirque did not disappoint. The show, music, visuals and range of emotions - breathtaking! The show is one of the best I have seen in years. There were a few sad moments while viewing footage of a young MJ, listening to that angelic voice while reflecting on the tragic circumstances of his death. Those moments were few and the energy of the show quickly soars to the thunder of many standing ovations.
The show offers a 20 minute intermission. This allowed me to discover the “Players Lounge” This venue is open to the public and offers a trendy atmosphere with lounge seating. Joining the Players Lounge extends a number of benefits including VIP parking, VIP entrance and “in-seat” service. Say goodbye to those dreary beer kiosks!
The show won’t disappoint and the attached link provides tour information.
http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/michael-jackson-tour/default.aspx
http://valleyviewcasinocenter.com/membership.php
Tuesday, Jan 17th 2012:
Last week, we welcomed Luke Hanson to the ARG family. Luke has been selling real estate in downtown San Diego for nearly a year and we’re excited to have him aboard…. Even if he makes the office jealous with his dual widescreen computer monitors. Show off
We take pride in the companies we recommend to our clients. It made us happy to receive such a wonderful endorsement for Mark Field at Kiwi Tile Company from Sandra Melville’s clients Dale & Madeleine Godfrey who have a home at Park Place. “We are absolutely delighted with Mark. So far they are doing an amazing job… very clean, precise; know what they’re doing, and very accommodating toward everything and to everyone.” Kiwi Tile Company can be reached at 619.843.4286
Last week we said goodbye to our friend and colleague, Katie Ritto, ARG style… with a huge Irish wake in her honor. The downtown office was filled with agents from all different offices, friends, and past clients who came out to pay their respects and share their favorite Katie stories.
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor) finds from the week:
 |
“Imagine my delight discovering a magical setting near Santa Barbara last month. I did not realize coastal real estate remains that offers breathtaking views of pristine undeveloped coastline, nature trails, golf, sophisticated dining and the charm of Santa Barbara’s famed wine region just minutes away.
Nobody understands the importance of “location” better than a Realtor and Barcara obtained a priceless setting that is truly world-class. I doubt this can be duplicated today at any cost.
With the lure of spa treatments, beach walks, three zero-edge heated pools and multiple restaurants you might think we lacked time to relax in the room. The opposite was true, finding the competing lure of our private patio, fire place and ocean view bath tub a daily battle. We did venture into the wine region and discovered Root 246 in the village of Solvang (see link) and purchased some terrific wine to return home with.
One of our many pleasant surprises is the impact of the views from Bacara. Located so close to multiple Channel Islands transported us to an exotic location – similar to views off Maui. This is a special destination that allows you to escape without the hassle and price of a long flight.
The photo is Sterling (the wonder dog) and me enjoying high tea in the lobby of Bacara on our arrival day. What more can I possibly say?”
Tuesday, Jan 10th 2012:
This week’s blogpost will be silent in honor of our friend and colleague Katie Ritto who left us too soon, but left us so much.
Tuesday, Dec 20th 2011:
 |
Marketing Assistant Jessica Turner and her husband, donned their leather and helmets for San Diego Harley Davidson’s Tijuana Toy Run this past Sunday. “We try to make this run every year. What could be better than giving a toy to a child at Christmas time?!”
Paul Weiner has a new listing in Borrego Springs. DeAnza Country Club lot is only $95,000. Build for less then buying. Call him today for more info 619.507.1564
Realtor, Rebecca Roman took a friend to french restaurant Hexagon, and can’t quit raving about the sea bass. “Even at this busy time of year I think it’s important to stop and smell the roses, or in my case, the butter and sherry.”
 |
2012 is nearly upon us, and for ARG that means it’s time for setting goals! Broker Jim Abbott challenged ARG realtors to fashion a foam head with their Wildly Importantly Goals. It brings a new meaning to a “wig party”.
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor) finds from the week:
Recent posts have taken us from the Parker Palm Springs to the London West Hollywood so it seems right to stay a bit closer to home. Walking distance as a matter of fact.
Since 1995, Kensington Grill has been the neighborhood’s hip neighborhood restaurant. Since the kitchen at home is out of commission for a minor remodel, it provided the perfect excuse for Nick and me to return this past weekend. We had an outstanding dining experience and commented the staff and food quality is better than ever.
The server was asked to bring her favorite appetizers to the table and were delighted with the selections of grilled avocado & mac ‘n shrooms with truffle oil. Need I say more?
After all these years, Kensington Grill remains one of my favorites. http://www.kensingtongrill.com/about
Stay tuned for the next post as we head to Santa Barbara to check out Bacara Resort & Spa.
Tuesday, Dec 13th 2011:
Oh, holiday season! There just never seems to be enough time in the day to get it all done. Holiday cards have to be written, presents have to be purchased… and wrapped, crowds have to be fought. Not to mention work must continue. In the last 2 weeks alone, Michael Long 619.846.0892 listed 2 new properties, Mike Althof 619.417.5766 added 3 new listings to his roster, and Nicole Hazelton 619.206.1892 also added 2 new properties.
So how do we cope with all the stress? We throw a party!
ARG Holiday party at The Meridian:
And we give back!
Alliance Direct’s Sam Assael at Junior Seau’s Shop with a Jock
Tuesday, Nov 29th 2011:
The holiday season has officially arrived… and so has the flu season! As multiple ARG employees fell prey to this year’s lingering bug (including yours truly) over the past two weeks, we’re reminded the importance of listening to and nurturing your body. For most of us, the holiday season will pass in a whirlwind. Here are 5 simple tips to help you make it through the next 4 weeks.
 |
ARG hosted its annual Customer Appreciation event at Neiman Marcus Nov 15th with lifestyle expert Moll Anderson. Friends, clients, and ARG agents mingled among tray-passed hor’dourves and cocktails in Neiman’s 3rd level. No better time than the week before Thanksgiving, to show our clients how thankful we truly are.
Who said this is a quiet time of year for real estate? Inman recently listed some of the advantages of listing your home before year’s end, and sellers heard them loud and clear. Michael Long is just one of the agents continuing to list properties this time of year. Just this week, he listed a new property at ICON in the east village downtown and also listed a 3bed/2bath condo in Mission Valley at Station Village. Call him today at 619.846.0892 for showings.
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor) finds from the week:
 |
I have a new favorite hotel in Los Angeles – LONDON West Hollywood. This fashionable property offers a prime location at San Vicente and Sunset Blvd. The staff is polished and attentive, the rooftop pool includes a fire pit and spectacular city views and their famed Gordon Ramsay restaurants are terrific.
Although it’s tempting to linger in your oversized suite, this location places the best of LA at your doorstep. Our favorite side trip was to the historic Farmers Market adjacent to The Grove. Don’t miss this outstanding shopping destination and celebrity gazing spot!
Thelondonwesthollywood.com
Tuesday, Nov 15th 2011:
 |
Agents, Nicole Hazelton and Rebecca Roman ran The Silver Strand half marathon this past Sunday. The 13+ mile event began at 7 am at the Tidelands Park and ended at the Imperial Beach Pier. “Imperial Beach and Coronado Island are our communities. We support as much around here as we can…. And we love the challenge!”
ARG had another packed monthly meeting at The University Club in Symphony Towers last Tuesday. Broker Jim Abbott lead the meeting with his normal enthusiasm. “This month, we began sharing real world examples of the 7 Habits of Highly effective people. It’s amazing to see the end results of our yearlong training as we become more accustomed to approaching every situation with the Habits in mind. There are no problems, just opportunities!”
 |
Monica Ball and Jessica Freeman are happy to report Friday’s Veteran’s Day event at FLUXX was a great success and raised not only money, but the level of discussion about this terrible problem and how we can all work to solve it. Mayoral candidate Donna Frye spoke about the importance of public involvement and David “The Waterman” Ross reminded us that basic human functions are a struggle for those on the streets. For more information on how you can donate or help any of the wonderful organizations working to end homelessness please contact Monica Ball, mbrealestate@cox.net. [photo: Agent, Craig Wells working to end homelessness]
NEW SEGMENT:
Dan Larson (ARG’s unofficial leisure & lifestyle contributor) finds from the week:
“Business in Del Mar had me in this idyllic seaside village over the lunch hour recently. Del Mar Plaza offers a few nice options and Flavor Del Mar was a true delight. I can’t recall the last time I enjoyed such fresh, high quality ingredients www.flavordelmar.com. They must have a garden hidden from sight.
This past weekend had me looking for a special place in Palm Springs. One of my favorites is the Parker Palm Springs. With a nod to the swinging 60′s the Parker offers one of a kind ambiance and attentive service. The shrimp frittatas featured the largest, freshest shrimp I’ve ever seen. It was both healthy and decadent! If you are a fan of a good bloody mary – this is also your place www.theparkerpalmsprings.com”
Tuesday, Nov 8th 2011:
 |
Last week for Halloween, agent Carolyn Bowhay took her two Welsh Corgis, Madison & Stella, to the annual “Howl-O-Ween” Corgi meet up. “It was so fun seeing dozens of Corgis all dressed up!”
Our 4th Avenue neighbor, Bolillo Tortas, finally opened their doors last week and we are in love with their sandwiches (and the Bolillo delivery bikes). Not to mention the gorgeous interior. Welcome to the neighborhood!
 |
Alliance Direct lending experts Drew Greene and Sam Assael spent Sunday “Racing for the Cure”. The Susan G Komen 5K was packed as usual. Neither the slightly chilly temps or the on & off again drizzle could keep the mood down. “We love doing this each year!”
Agent Laurie Shaw attended the San Diego Unified School Districts’ 1st annual All-Staff GLEE Sing Out on Saturday night to raise money for the Visual & Performing Arts Department. Her husband, Gary Petill, was one of the fine GLEE singers! “It was a blast and they raised a substantial amount of money for the Visual Arts Department. Actually I even won a raffle prize, $25.00 gift card to Entoeca Style Wine Bar on India Street. Can’t wait to use it.”
Agent Paul Weiner, just listed nearly 27,000 sqft of land with 200 feet of frontage on Market St. between 25 & 26th! Call him today 619.398.3885 for all the info on this great opportunity.
Tuesday, Nov 1st 2011:
ARG Agents ruled the Downtown caravan last Thursday! Sandra Melville had her new listing, 877 Island Ave #302, open for the first time. The loft has an open floor plan with 2 full bathrooms and nearly 2000 sqf! Call her for a showing today 619.454.5464 Carolyn Bowhay enticed agents with Halloween treats. Her unit at Cortez Hill (850 Beech St) is a full 2 bedroom 2 bath, and has 2 parking spots! Call her 619.944.5478 to see it. Nicole Hazelton and her team embraced the Halloween spirit as well, and donned their pirate costumes a few days early. Their listing at Bayside (1325 Pacific Hwy) is 1+ bedroom and has 1.5 baths. Call 619.206.1892 for a showing.
 |
Speaking of Halloween, ARG embraced the holiday yesterday! Several agents and employees spent the day working in their costumes. And Team Ritto & Hazelton spent the evening handing out candy and pirate jokes to hardworking professionals up and down 4th Avenue.
Carolyn Bowhay has begun selling pies through Mama’s Kitchen. Don’t bother making a pie this Thanksgiving; buy your Apple, Pumpkin, or Pecan pie from her instead! It’s even tax deductible. Visit her site HERE. You’ll be entered to win an iPad 2 when you place your order.
 |
The ARG team saved up their appetites all week long so that they could go and celebrate MIHO Gastrotruck’s new downtown stop at 3rd and B on Friday (now moved to Thursdays) The orders were split in between the “Burger Au Poivre” and their “Chicken Curry Wrap” (no longer served) But no matter what they ordered, everyone agreed that it was the perfect meal for a gorgeous Friday afternoon.
Tuesday, Oct 24th 2011:
Realtor Laurie Shaw did a great Hiking Yoga class in Balboa Park on Saturday with a friend. She says, “It took about an hour & half and it is amazing hiking through the canyons and stopping along the way to do yoga with about 20 or so people. I’d really recommend it if you have never done it.” She also celebrated Happy Hour at a new spot in South Park, Jaun Chu. The menu is part Mexican part Japanese.
Realtor Carolyn Bowhay, had her engagement photos taken on Sunday and used Little Italy and Santa Fe Train Station as their backdrop. Then they took the trolley from Santa Fe Station to Old Town for dinner at Old Town Mexican Café. She adds, “a bit crowded & brightly lit for my taste, but those carnitas are sure worth it!”
Monica Ball had a busy week at FLUXX helping put together a Veteran’s Day (11/11/11) event, with proceeds going to Uplift, The Isiah Project, Caridad, and San Diego Veteran’s Village to help homeless veterans. San Diego Mayoral candidates will also be present. Purchase tickets here.
Agent, Sandra Meville was asked by NBC to share her thoughts about the likelyhood of President Obama’s re-fi plan actually effecting real homeowners. She was on the news and everything
Our preferred lender, Alliance Direct’s Vice President, adds “the news on the new HARP program should be promising for home owners come mid November.”
Cameron Abbott and Sam Assael participated in SDAR’s Golf Tournament benefitting our everyday heroes yesterday. Even though they didn’t come home with a win for ARG, they finished 15 under par and had a great time riding the golf carts.
Tuesday, Oct 18th 2011:
This week’s post is a special 2 week edition of “Inside a Downtown Real Estate Agency”.
 |
The “Occupy” movement came to San Diego, Friday Oct 7th and our Broker shot some amazing pictures of the crowd as they made their way through downtown. Jim later went to the Occupy San Diego campsite to voice support and listen to protests.
Marketing Assistant, Jessica Turner and Realtor Nicole Hazelton were reminded of how diverse Southern California’s landscape really is during a trip to Palm Springs, Columbus Day weekend. One day was spent hiking the frigid San Jacinto Mountain (accessible through the aerial tramway), while the next was spent under the sun among boulders and cacti in Joshua Tree National Park. “One day we’re in flannel, jeans, and boots and the next we’re in tank tops and shorts. When we say we’ve got it all. We really do. “ Hazelton adds.
 |
ARG’s monthly Sales and Training event was at The University Club in Symphony Towers, Tuesday Oct 11th. Nearly 40 agents spent the morning sharing what’s working, what’s changing, and what challenges they’ve seen around San Diego county. Agent Carolyn Bowhay brought homemade carrot cake cupcakes and Agent Richard Croft delighted with a Halloween themed chocolate cake complete with skulls, tombstones, and spiders… both were devoured before pictures could be taken. Our meetings are always open to agents who want to understand why ARG is different from other agencies. Please visit our confidential recruiting site HERE to view all of our upcoming training events.
One of our favorite Agents (shhh… don’t tell) Dan Larson celebrated his 29th birthday this past week. Happy Birthday Dan!
Financing has been so volatile these last couple weeks we hardly see Alliance Direct VP, Sam Assael, outside of his office. But when asked this morning his thoughts for the week ahead he replied, “markets were down heavy this AM moving rates downward a tad……… which should be a good week in lending!!”
The Cohen family, with help from ARG, hosted a reception at The Meridian last Thursday. Downtown agents came by to view the Cohen’s home, while feasting on open-faced sandwiches courtesy of Bread & Cie and sipping on mimosas. “What a perfect way to get ready for the busy weekend ahead” agent Jessica Freeman said on her way out.
Have we told you how much we love La Puerta?! Well, we do. Big special thank you to 4th Avenue neighbors. One of our employees was craving something off their brunch menu so bad last Friday, she called to see if there was any way they could make it for her, and lucky for her they could… and did! Too bad margaritas at work are frowned upon, because La Puerta’s are some of the best. Big thank you, for being awesome.
Tuesday, Oct 4th 2011:
ARG had their first yoga class last Tuesday. Several agents showed up including Broker Jim Abbott who said, “Yoga turnout AWESOME. Ten zen-filled ARG agents, spouses and friends arrived on time to find the newly-remodeled Meridian room awash in soothing music, low lights and our new yoga instructor Yvonne ready to lead us to better health. Yvonne designed a great program good for beginners, intermediates and advanced devotees of the pretzel-cise. Namaste! “
 |
Broker, Jim Abbott also led another Tuesday at 2 training session last week; this time on Marketing 101. Nearly 20 agents picked his brain for over an hour on how to really “own” a neighborhood/location. If you feel like you’re not getting enough training or feedback with your broker, stop by our careers site; we’re always looking for qualified agents.
Marketing assistant Jessica Turner was noshing on pub grub at West Coast Tavern (University Avenue near 30th) Friday night when the Critical Mass “gang” of bicyclist passed through. She said there must have been over 5,000 of them on the streets of every age, race, and bike design. “It was so cool.” She even took a small video.
Realtor Laurie Shaw, and her “Make it Happen” team members, announced that this year’s project will be to support Village of Promise. They add, “The mission of Village of Promise is to break the cycle of incarceration by providing a supportive environment to children of parents in prison, through support of their mental, physical, emotional, social, and physical well-being.” To learn more or to donate, you can visit the Village of Promise website by using the link above, or can send your donation to: Make it Happen 6549 Mission Gorge Road #369, San Diego, CA 92120
Lending specialist, Sam Assael tells us, “When the 10 year bond fluctuates as it had the last 72 hours, rates can shift by more than 0.50%, plus or minus. The volatility exists, and it is only getting bumpier!”
Tuesday, Sept 27th 2011:
Last week ARG launched its new weekly training event “Tuesdays at 2 w/Jim Abbott”. Nearly 20 agents showed up to watch Broker Jim Abbott and agent Nicole Hazelton play out a successful listing presentation. Jim played seller while Nicole did what she does best; capturing a listing. The round table discussion lasted over an hour and had agents excited for future training events.
Speaking of a successful listing presentation; Nicole Hazelton listed a new property late last week. 14248 Minorca Cove is in beautiful Del Mar and is a 4 bedrooms 3 bath home spread over nearly 2.400 sqf. Call Nicole at 619.206.1892 for a showing.
Agent Monica Ball spent Saturday downtown participating in “Sleepless in San Diego”. She, along with UPLIFT, and loads of additional service providers, rallied together to bring awareness to the homelessness in San Diego.
Agent Carolyn Bowhay -with the help of agents Richard Croft and Matt Conser- hosted the downtown caravan last Thursday to show off her new listing at The Discovery at Cortez Hill. Unit #1005 is about 1400 sqf with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Call Carolyn at 619.944.5478
If you saw the orange and navy ARG Abbott Realty Group signs along Midway Dr or West Pt Loma Blvd, they were for the open house at 3873 Leland St that was hosted by Jessica Freeman. It was a beautiful day in Pt Loma, even though the marine layer hung around there was still a great view of SeaWorld (though it was hard to see the ShamuRocks show!!)
Agent Rebecca Roman continued her partnership with KIT this past weekend. The fundraising event was a “pub crawl” throughout Pacific Beach. They partnered with different bars and restaurant for drink specials, prizes, and more. It was a complete success.
Tuesday, Sept 20th 2011:
 |
Marketing assistant Jessica Turner turned a failed weekend getaway to Santa Barbara into a staycation in San Diego. She brunched at La Puerta on 4th Avenue, saw the “El Greco to Dali” exhibit at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park, and saw Bon Iver perform at the renovated Spreckles Theater in the gaslamp on Saturday. Sunday was spent at the Hillcrest farmer’s market, taking in the sweeping views from the middle of the Spruce Street suspension bridge, followed by craft beers and sunshine all afternoon at The Linkery in North Park before finishing her staycation with the Lemon Meringue Neapolitan at Extraordinary Desserts on 5th Avenue. She’s made everyone want to plan a staycation.
ARG broker Jim Abbott staged his first flashmob as a birthday surprise for his husband Michael. The mob was so successful half of The Meridian stood on their balconies to watch it unfold.
Agent Nicole Hazelton attended San Diego Magazine’s “Women Who Move the City” event last Wednesday night. Nicole’s partner Katie Ritto was one of this year’s nominees, and even though Katie didn’t win, Nicole and the rest of the Ritto & Hazelton team enjoyed watching the Cirque Du Soleil performances and the gorgeous ocean views outside Scripps Seaside Forum.
Agent Rebecca Roman got a rude reminder of the importance of agent safety Sunday when she arrived at her open house and the backdoor was wide open. Luckily, the property was vacant by the time she entered, but she’s made it a point to share her story with fellow agents to bring awareness back to the forefront of each agent’s mind.
Mortgage Banker, Samuel Assael, says “Interest rates have continued to hold steady and the market is very volatile. If you are in a position to lock in an interest rate, go for it!!!”
Copyright © 2011 ARG, Abbott Realty Group, all rights reserved