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From pools to fences to gazebos, TD Construction coordinates expert craftspeople in transforming your backyard into what you’d like it to be.
Photo courtesy of TD Construction
Staycation from page 2B and other everyday renovations. For project elements the company does not personally perform, such as pool installations, TD enlists associated companies to help. “We know who the best guys are,” said Curtis. “If a customer comes to us, they have access to all that experience.” He sees TD Construction’s focused approach to business as one of its major assets. “We’ve found that you need to specialize. Be good. Be the best at what you do.” TD Construction makes a point of breaking the stereotype that contractors don’t finish by their promised deadlines. “We are on time,” said Curtis. The company also prioritizes communication with clients. “We know what we’re doing, but it’s
important that we let the customer know what we’re doing.” The company’s focused approach and emphasis on quality have earned the praise of clientele and a steady influx of referrals. When TD takes new clients on tours of previous projects to help them visualize their own dream yards, their former customers are smiling, happy and still grateful years later. Curtis enjoys the excitement generated by the successful completion of a project. “At the end of the process, we’ve got customers high-fiving us and telling the world.” TD Construction offers complimentary consultations. Call 925-516-6240 or visit www.tdconst.com. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
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How your garden grows is up to you RUTH ROBERTS
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f you’re tired of the constant mowing, watering and general Succulents like these aeoniums are good choices for gardeners looking for a lowmaintenance, droughtresistant plant.
care involved in keeping your
field of dreams green – yet you still want a beautiful yard – plenty of options are available that aren’t merely drought resistant, but colorful, resilient – and yes, low-maintenance. “I would definitely say that the trend is toward people taking out their lawns and putting in something that looks nice and takes less water,” said Abbie Villasenor, who works at Eden Plains Nursery in Brentwood. “It used to be that people were taking out their lawns because of the water issue, but now a lot of people also do it because it’s less maintenance and work.” If your dream is to create an outdoor environment that’s low-maintenance yet in constant bloom, a combination of annuals (plants that stay green all year) and perennials (the flowers die and come back) is your best gardening bet. Many annual options include shrubs and ground covers that grow fast, bloom in abundance and stay green year-round. Popular picks include escollonia (an ever-
Photo by Richard Wisdom
green with pink flowers that grows to a height of four feet) and heavenly bamboo (a shrub displaying white flowers and red berries). Indian hawthorn is a low-maintenance, drought-resistant pink and white flowering shrub that grows well in most climates. Succulents – known as “fat plants” for
their water-retention properties – are also popular. The most well-known varieties are cactus and aloe, but the fast-spreading and brilliantly colored portulaca plant is also a perfect example of an annual succulent. “Succulents are pretty and they don’t take much water,” said Villasenor. “They’re good, hardy plants that grow almost
anywhere.” As for perennials, the sky’s the limit when it comes to choosing the plants and shrubs that are right for your garden. And if you’re looking to replace that lawn with ground cover, verbena (famous for its see Garden page 12B
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
HOME & GARDEN
Trevor’s Weekly Mortgage Matters The Age of the Machines… …and that’s no reference or nod - although there should be so please consider this that nod – to the Machine Age. The early 20th century and late 19th century, between World War I and World War II, saw more complex models of technology being produced (across the board) than any time before it’s time. The first computer ever invented and the invention of the transistor made way for mass production; earth moving machinery, skyscrapers, the railroad, the automobile, and aircrafts just to name a few. Fast forward a century’s worth of technology and advancements have gone too far. Too many people are trying to make too many things automated – insert here the real estate market and/or the stock market – and we’re all paying the price for it. At the time this article was being written (September 20, 2011) 70 percent of all stock trades made were made using algorithms. In one such case – Rebellion Research – a computer program analyses decade’s worth of stock market data, and, after coming up with a long term strategy, gives Rebellion’s traders a list of buy/sell orders every morning. Combine that with that fact that the “malfunctioning” of these algorithms has more than once caused the shutdown of the London Stock Exchange and you should start to wonder what’s wrong with this picture. This brilliant way of thinking – the whole more production, less person, let’s become automated – has been affecting the mortgage business for quite some time, and now it seems as if things have once again gotten worse. As an example, Quicken Loans has their newest
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By Trevor Frey
commercial stating “Quicken Loans, Engineered to Amaze!” Last time I checked, the mortgage business, stock business, or any other business for that matter was personally related to the people, not “Engineered to Amaze.” On that note, and to continue showcasing how bad things have gotten, all new appraisal/appraiser guidelines were put into place September 1, 2011. The thinking behind this was simple; make everyone across the country more efficient by putting them all on the same platform. By automating appraisal reports we’ve essentially cut out our local appraisers’ vocal cords. No longer will they be able to “comment” with such appraiser-discretion. They (appraisers) now have to pick certain drop downs from certain categories. No more commentary, only automation. In theory, at least in the minds of the powers that made this decision, it’ll be easier for big banks to review appraisals (because they’ll all look the same)…making quality control that much easier. However, if you follow “The Age of the Machine” theory, you wouldn’t have any issue with an Alabama appraiser appraising your delta front property. What’s the difference in the eyes of the banks…comments don’t matter. That said, please be aware; appraisals will be tighter in the months to follow. Please, please, please, make sure you review your appraisal with your lender to ensure you understand it. If you have any real estate lending related questions or concerns don’t hesitate to write me at tfreymortgages@yahoo.com or call me directly on my cell phone, (925) 726-1444. – Advertisement
2010 OAKLEY PRESS OAKLEY
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Flow into fall with help from feng shui SAMIE HARTLEY
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s summer begins to fade, the signs of autumn are as abundant as the season’s harvest. The air wraps
us in a blanket of chilled anticipation as the leaves burn yellow and red, signaling that winter won’t be far behind. It’s a time to pack away beach blankets and dust off raincoats. The energy in the earth is changing, but a few changes to your home can help channel that energy into a cozy winter environment.
Photo courtesy of Open Spaces Feng Shui
Feng shui experts suggest creating a reading space in your home this winter – a cozy, relaxing area to wait out the cold weather.
Feng shui, a technique believed to increase the flow of energy called “chi” in your home to influence your life on a greater scale, has been around for centuries. Originally practiced by ancient Chinese emperors, feng shui, pronounced “fung shway,” was thought to be a guaranteed method of organization to influence energies, which would translate into the success or failure of a kingdom. Contemporary feng shui practices are personalized to the individual, but many practitioners believe that by balancing your yin and yang energies, you can lead a happier, healthier and more prosperous life. Feng shui practitioners seek to balance the energies in their homes, creating an environment
that exudes a desired ambiance. The belief is that when chi flows freely through your home, you’ll be able to generate more creativity to help you succeed in many aspects of life, from relationships to business. According to renowned feng shui expert Betsy Stang, autumn is a time to reflect nature and purge your home of dead energy to make way for new, positive energy. Basically, out with the old and in with the new – just as trees shed their leaves to make way for blossoms in the spring. Decluttering your living space is a good way to begin a feng shuiinspired lifestyle. Eradicate piles, clear pathways and toss things you don’t use or need so that chi may flow more freely in your home. You don’t need to buy new furniture or turn your house upside down. Just open up your space and become more in tune with the energies flowing within your home. According to Stang, since the rain and cold of autumn and winter drive us indoors, feng shui is especially important right now. It helps us create a relaxing and inviting space for those shortening days and lengthening nights. Stang suggests placing a comfy chair in the corner of a room and creating a cozy reading nook, complete with a blanket, a small end table for our steaming cup of coffee or tea, and a lamp that offers a warm, golden glow, much like the sun. Since we’ll spend more time indoors, Stang see Feng Shui page 13B
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
HOME & GARDEN
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New Law on Short Sales What you Should Know to Protect Yourself by Joan Grimes, Esq. things: 1) Did you make any money on the deal and 2) Did you borrow any money which was not repaid? If you made money on the deal, including taking out cash to buy another house, car, pay off credit card, you may have a gain. If you borrowed money which was not repaid, you will have Cancellation of Debt Income (“CODI”). CODI will be taxable to you at your current tax rate unless an exception applies. Make sure you know all the tax implications before the short sale is completed. If there is CODI, it can be discharged in bankruptcy, but only if the bankruptcy is filed prior to the short sale being completed. In conclusion, CCP 580(e) is a mixed bag for consumers. It may help reduce personal liability while increasing tax liability. There is no question that this new law is going to hurt the lenders and help the IRS and State Franchise Tax Board. This will be found money for the tax man. Borrowers will see the forgiveness of personal liability and completely disregard the tax consequences. Don’t be one of those people! If you are considering a short sale, seek legal advice prior to starting the short sale process. This is a complicated area of the law, but a bankruptcy or real estate attorney should be able to make to an analysis of your particular situation fairly quickly. I see people for a FREE 30 minute consultations at my offices located in Walnut Creek, Antioch and Brentwood. THIS INFORMATION IS NOT PROVIDED AS LEGAL ADVICE AND SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON IN MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING A VOLUNTARY DEFAULT, SHORT SALE, FORECLOSURE OR BANKRUPTCY. THIS INFORMATION IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR OBTAINING TAX & LEGAL ADVICE REGARDING AN INDIVIDUAL SITUATION. GRIMESBKLAW.COM (925) 323-7772 © 2011 Joan Grimes
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Effective July 15, 2011, California Code of Civil Procedure (“CCP”) 580(e) was amended to prohibit a deficiency judgment on any loan secured solely by a deed of trust on a 1-4 unit dwelling sold in a short sale. Enough legal jargon…what exactly does this mean and how does apply to you? First, it means that if your lenders agree to a short sale, it will release you from your personal liability on loans secured solely by a deed of trust against a dwelling of 1- 4 units. If the lenders want the short sale to go through, they will have to be satisfied with the proceeds from the sale. The banks can no longer demand that borrowers sign promissory notes… AND no more tricking borrowers into believing that releasing of the lien was in fact releasing their personal liability. The lenders do not have to agree to the short sale, but if they agree, they cannot come after you once the short sale is completed. However, if you think this is too good to be true…you’re right. Keep reading! Second, there is no requirement for a release of personal liability on anything other than a consensual lien i.e. no requirement to release judgment lien or liens placed on the property such as by a homeowners association or taxing authority. These parties do not have to agree to accept the proceeds from the sale as payment in full. The forgiveness of personal liability also does not apply to borrowers who are corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnership or political subdivision of the state. In addition, it also does not prohibit the lender from obtaining a judgment for fraud with respect to the short sale or waste committed to the property. Third, CCP 580(e) does not release you from any tax liability. Remember, every short sale has tax implications. The IRS/State Franchise Tax Board wants to know two
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Photo courtesy of Getty Images
A down-to-earth guide to home heating and cooling
H
igh energy costs have many homeowners looking for new ways to save money.
According to the Department of Energy, the average homeowner pays about $1,900 annually on utilities, most of it in heating and cooling bills.
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A growing number of homeowners are finding savings in their own backyards by utilizing the earth’s natural energy to heat and cool their houses. It’s called geothermal energy – and it can save you some green while you’re going green. The geothermal system – also known as ground source heat pump system (GSHPS) see Heating page 9B
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
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Photo courtesy of Getty Images
How it works The temperature of the earth – from a few feet to hundreds of feet down – is moderate and fairly constant. In many places it stays in the mid- to upper-50s all year. Instead of
burning fossil fuels, a geothermal heat pump absorbs the energy stored in the earth to heat a home in the winter. In summer, a heat pump rejects the heat from the space and transfers it back into the earth – making it efficient and cost-effective. To make it work, you need three elements: an underground loop system, a geothermal heat pump and an air-delivery system: ♦ Loop system: This is a system of high-density polyethylene plastic pipes buried in the ground. They’re filled with a mixture of water see Heating page 14B
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or geothermal heat pump (GHP) has been around for decades but is only now coming to the attention of many homeowners. The Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency have both endorsed GSHPS as among the most energyefficient and environmentally friendly heating, cooling and water heating systems available.
WE ARE YOUR ONE STOP SHOP • Landscape Design & Installation • Residential & Commercial Landscape Maintenance • Artificial Turf & Putting Greens • Engineering • Drainage • Retaining Walls MEDA L LD AWARD
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
Harvest from page 10B the region’s average date for a hard frost and calculate back the weeks needed to successfully grow a full late-season crop. ♦ Rotate plant location. For example, if peas were planted in the spring in one section of the garden, don’t plant them in the same location for the fall growing season. Use instead that area of the garden for spinach this time around. Rotating crops helps the garden’s soil to replace and retain valuable nutrients naturally. ♦ The garden needs food to thrive. Feed edibles, whether in an in-ground garden or in container pots, with Miracle-Gro Shake ’n Feed Tomato, Fruits & Vegetables Plant Food Plus Calcium. One application feeds plants for up to three months – plenty of time for the fall garden to produce a harvest of delicious vegetables – and contains calcium to help plants grow better quality, longerlasting fruits and vegetables. ♦ Keep an eye on plants as they grow, and water daily and protect from the
HOME & GARDEN
dangers of a hard frost. Monitor weather reports. If a hard frost is predicted earlier than expected, cover the crops with blankets or plastic for the night, and uncover in the morning, once the threat of freezing has passed. ♦ Harvest plants as they reach maturity. Sometimes a chilly night with a slight frost can enhance the flavor if vegetables are picked during or immediately after the temperature drops. ♦ Get a family member to record the entire growing season through the winter frost, keeping track of what was planted, the date it was planted, the flavor of the vegetables harvested and even which recipes the family made and enjoyed with the produce. Use this information next year to better plan the fall garden and increase the amount of produce harvested. Scotts plant food products can be found at Ace Hardware stores at 8900 Brentwood Blvd. in Brentwood; 305 Main St. in Oakley; and 501 Sunset Drive in Antioch.
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FAL L
Mo
nth
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of F ree Ma nag eme nt S ervi ces!
CIA L!
Shrubs provide quick, effective ground cover and come in a variety of colors and sizes.
Photo by Richard Wisdom
Garden from page 4B
Management Throughout the Entire Bay Area for over 30 Years!
purple and pink flowers) and lantana (also in a variety of colors) are two excellent choices for fast growth, year-round flowers and hearty constitutions. Agapantha – or lily of the Nile – is also a popular perennial, as is the beautiful hydrangea, although it requires more shade than some of the other shrubs. And don’t forget the bulbs. “Accent items such as irises or tulips or any kind of bulb are nice additions,” said Villasenor. “Because they pop up in the spring and add a splash of color.” But for those looking for a design
that requires even less maintenance, there are other options. “The bark and rocks are very popular,” said Villasenor. “Another thing that’s popular is the mound look with moss boulders. It kind of creates a creek bed effect with plants accented along the edges. It’s very pretty and a bit different.” So whether it’s a perennials-only yard, annuals-alike garden or a combination of the two, the perfect outdoor environment is the one that ultimately best fits your sense of style – and lifestyle. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
HOME & GARDEN
An expert in feng shui can help you arrange your home according to a Bagua map such as this, which outlines a home’s energy fields and their associated colors, based on the location of the front door.
Courtesy of liulifengshui.blogspot.com
Feng Shui from page 6B also suggests introducing natural elements into décor, such as a bowl of pine cones, or stones placed on a shelf to welcome Mother Nature’s presence. Feng shui expert Debra Duneier encourages us to warm our homes by using the kitchen to bake up inviting aromas. The heat from the oven will warm the halls while the scent of cookies will take you back to the peaceful days of your youth. Nationally recognized feng shui consultant Ken Lauher urges feng shui beginners to clear their entryway so that chi can flow freely into the home and
circulate through each room. If the front entryway is blocked, nature’s positive energy can’t enter your home. Feng shui means wind and water, and like those elements, it’s fluid – but can’t be forced into a space. As wind and water are the central elements of the practice, experts also suggest that beginners hang wind chimes in order to hear and feel the movement of the air. Since the sound of flowing water increases positive chi, it’s helpful to install a small aquarium or water feature such as a tabletop fountain. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
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and antifreeze that circulates throughout the pipes. Open-loop systems circulate water drawn from a well. ♦ Geothermal heat pump: The geothermal heat pump extracts heat from the fluid within the loop. This heat is then sent into the house. In the summer, it extracts heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the fluid, which cools as it circulates through the loop. ♦ Air-delivery system: Most geothermal pumps use an electrically driven fan to distribute the air through ducts in the house. A residential system can also be equipped to heat household water. According to the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association, a geothermal system is 50 to 70 percent more efficient than other heating systems, and 20 to 40 percent more efficient than available air conditioners. That means direct savings on utility bills.
How it saves you money According to Bosch Thermotechnology
North America: ♦ Geothermal heat pumps have the lowest life-cycle cost today – 25 to 50 percent less than a conventional system. ♦ You can save up to 70 percent on your energy bill, depending on your location and which GSHPS you use. ♦ Although the upfront costs are often higher than a conventional system, the cost can be recouped within a short period of time – as little as five to seven years. ♦ Take advantage of state, local, utility and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Look up rebates, tax credits and financing options in your area at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency, www. dsireusa.org. Whether you’re looking to build a new, more energy-efficient house, or want to cut back your utility bills on your current house, consider exploring ways you can use the energy Mother Nature has in your own yard. Learn more at www.boschclimate.us.
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Trilogy at The Vineyards brings boomers and grandchildren together When it comes to what matters most in retirement, driving distance to family and friends is the most important factor, according to a recent online survey of over 2000 boomers by Trilogy by Shea Homes. To celebrate family, Trilogy at The Vineyards, located in Brentwood, recently held its own version of the popular television comedy series “Kids Say the Darndest Things” at its Labor Day Barbecue Party. Grandchildren of Trilogy residents answered questions ranging from “what’s your mom’s favorite thing to do?” (“lie down,” one replied) to “what are your grandma and grandpa’s names? (“Grandma and Grandpa,” said another with a puzzled look). Responses from the children brought laughs from the audience of residents and families alike. The celebration was just one of many events offered by Trilogy that focuses on strengthening family bonds. Others include summer festivals complete with clowns, dunk tanks and games; a renowned Easter egg hunt attracting over 100 children; Fourth of July celebrations with bicycle and golf cart parades; “Dive In” movies viewable from the pool, and more. “At Trilogy at The Vineyards, we realize the importance of family,” said Dan O’Brien, area president, Trilogy Northern California, Shea Homes, Inc. – and Trilogy resident. “So many of our members move here to be close to their children and grandchildren. It’s fun to see members enjoying grandchildren at the swimming pool or at lunch on the Club Los Meganos patio, and for us to also enjoy time with our families here.” O’Brien and wife Kathy made a priority of being near their son, Shaun, daughter-in-law and two granddaughters in Foster City. “Out of all of the places we could have picked to live, we chose Trilogy at The Vineyards because of the people,” O’Brien added. “We got to meet them first because of my role here but then quickly got to know them as friends. We love the lifestyle – celebrating with friends, enjoying fine wine and taking it all in.” What do O’Brien’s granddaughters think of the Trilogy at The Vineyards community? “Grandpa has the coolest house we’ve ever seen,” said 7-year-old Aspen. “We love to go to the club; everyone waits on us like we’re royalty and we’re at a five-star resort,” said a perky Kylee, age 9. “I love the swimming pool; I feel like we’re on vacation.” Trilogy at The Vineyards boasts the award-winning Club Los Meganos, a new 34,000-square-foot private club and centerpiece of the community, which is open to homeowners and their families. It offers diverse fitness classes and high-end equipment at the Delta Athletic Club, plus two pools, a culinary studio and bistro-style restaurant, an event center and a grand living room, as well as luxurious treatments at Sawã Spa (both granddaughters highly recommend the princess manicure and pedicure there). Outdoor amenities include The Los Olivos Tennis Pavilion with four courts to choose from, three miles of wine country walking trails and more. In addition to community activities and amenities, the local area also offers a number of options for fun. Trilogy at The Vineyards is set in the middle of 30 acres of active vineyards, 18 acres of olive orchards – and a breathtaking view of Mount Diablo. “Our families love to come to Brentwood to visit us, pick fruit at Nunn Better Farms or enjoy the farmers’ market in the morning and
spend the afternoon at Club Los Meganos,” said O’Brien. “So what does grandpa do at Trilogy during the week?” Aspen asked. “Nothing silly,” answered her sister. “He’s the boss.” “You can’t make this stuff up,” said a smiling O’Brien. Find out why Shea Home Active Lifestyle communities have been ranked No. 1 in customer service three years in a row. For more information on Trilogy at The Vineyards or to schedule a tour of new homes ranging from 1,465 to 2,853 square feet and starting from the $390s, visit www.trilogylife.com/vineyards or call 800-685-6494.
Every day feels like vacation at Trilogy’s resort pool at Club Los Meganos.