​I recommend that you make a wish list of everything you would like to have in a new house. Then make a list of everything you don't like in your current home. These two lists will give you a good idea of where to start, and help you analyze your needs.

Buying a home requires making some compromises. You may not get everything you want, but make sure to get what you need. For example, when buying a home, the neighborhood should be your main consideration. Is the house in a neighborhood that you like and feel safe in? Will you have a reasonable commute to work? Does it have a good school system? (Not only is this important if you have children; it will impact the resale value of your home down the road.) Does the area have the amenities that you're looking for (parks, stores, and library) within a few miles?

Want to learn more? Ask for my Free Consumer Report called "8 Secrets For Saving Thousands When Buying." I'll send a copy right over to you.

Do you have a real estate question you want answered? Feel free to call me at 9095969886 or email me. Perhaps I'll feature it in my next issue!

Do you travel abroad?  At some point in life, nearly everyone will travel to a foreign country. Maybe you long for adventure, travel for business, or want to discover unique cultures.  Before you go, here are six helpful tips to make your trip easier, safer and lots more enjoyable:


1.    Pack With Care. Don’t pack anything that would upset you if it were lost. Luggage gets lost; things get broken.  Check to see what is appropriate to wear in the place(s) you’ll be staying. But don’t over pack.  Keep gifts unwrapped; security may have to unwrap them to see the contents.

2.    Make Two Travel Packets. One is for you; the other give to a trusted family member or friend. Copy your passport (all pages), and your passport photo. Include medical information, insurance numbers, medication and vision prescriptions (should you lose your glasses), your itinerary, and important telephone numbers. Check your health insurance medical coverage while you’re in foreign countries.

3.    Know Your Itinerary. Know where you’re going, and let people know when you are expected to return. Be aware of your surroundings and be street smart. Stay in safe areas, that are well-lit at night. 

4.    Watch What You Eat. Eat foods that are well-cooked; avoid raw or uncooked seafood. Drink bottled water (sealed and commercially produced), and/or carbonated drinks. Forego the ice, and use bottled water when brushing your teeth.

5.    Protect Your Film. If you use a film camera, carry your film with you. The new x-ray machines can fog your film, ruining your photos. If you’re concerned, ask security to hand-check your film.

6.    Stay Alert. You’re at most risk to crime while en-route to your destination particularly at airports. Don’t leave your bags unattended, and keep them in front of you. Always, heed U.S. State Department warnings; they are there to protect you.  Lastly, have a great trip!


© Investors Team Realty  909 518 8317  Arun Tolia

You can read plenty of articles on the internet about how to save money on groceries, but do you really have a grocery shopping strategy?  Here are some supermarket tips and secrets that will make you a savvy shopper. 

• Approach grocery shopping like a job.  You need to have a plan (take a list) and a budget to make the best use of your time and money.  
• Stick to a time schedule.  Shop for what you need and get out.  It is said that if you’re in the store more than 30 minutes, you’ll spend an extra 50 cents to $1 per minute as you walk the aisles.
• Shop alone.  Real Simple Magazine says parents will spend 10-40 percent more if they take their kids along.  It might be worth it to hire a babysitter! 
• Only buy “food” at a grocery store.  Generally, you’re better off buying toiletries, cleaning supplies and pet food at a big-box discount store. 
• Know the floor plan.  Shop the perimeter first for fresh fruits and vegetables, protein and milk.  You’ll find some good buys in the center aisles, but you’ll also be tempted by items like frozen convenience foods.
• Don’t assume everything on sale is a bargain.  Stores often display “sale” items at the end of the aisles.  Manufacturers pay to have their products put there so they aren’t necessarily a good deal. 
• Check “price per unit.” Sometimes it’s cheaper per unit to buy two smaller items than it is to buy one supersize package.
• Look high and low.  Stores often place higher-priced items at eye level (brands pay for the space).  Check prices on the top and bottom shelves. 
• Pay attention at checkout.  Shoppers lose up to $3 billion a year on scanner mistakes.   

Investors Team Realty  909 518 8317  Arun Tolia