I found a $5 Million Jade Buddha in the hills of Escondido California 

I wasn't looking for it - I just happened to stumble on it after visiting my Escondido listing a short distance away. It was the cars on the hill and the multicolored flags that drew me in. 

And I wasn't really aware of the significance of my find, even while visiting, until I did a little research. 

Seems the Jade Buddha of Universal Peace is on a world tour and is in Escondido CA at the Phap Vuong Monastery from February 7th through the 16^th  at 715 Vista Avenue. 

DON'T MISS IT IF YOU ARE IN THE AREA TODAY!! 

The Jade Buddha of Universal Peace is an amazing sculpture of gemstone-quality jade, created from 1 18-ton stone (it weighs about 4 tons), and is the largest of its kind in the world.

READ MORE about the Jade Buddha of Universal Peace

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If I can provide more information about Escondido real estate and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2010 Jeff Dowler "The California Relocation Dude" Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

Escondido is an inland community, about 15 miles from the coast adjacent to San Marcos. Like its neighbors, San Marcos, Vista and Oceanside, Escondido has seen fairly significant shifts in the real estate market with a large number of short sales and foreclosures. 

READ MORE: A Tour of Escondido - A Diverse Inland San Diego Community 

As a buyer or seller in the Escondido real estate market, understanding recent trends and current market conditions is essential in order to make informed decisions; media reports focus on general market conditions and therefore will not provide an accurate picture of the local Escondido real estate market. 

The following data are taken from the San Diego MLS (private sales are not included in these statistics, nor are multifamily properties or mobile/manufactured homes). The data are believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed. 

In January 2010 111 homes sold in the Escondido real estate market, 38% fewer than in December. Here's the breakdown of overall activity. 

The volume of sales dropped from December, however prices rose fairly substantially for attached homes, and on average homes are selling at/above asking price. This is likely due to the number of short sales and REOs.  

There were 254 Escondido homes (39% of all active properties) on the market with a Contingent status, i.e., short sale or REO homes that have offers being considered by lenders. These are included in the statistics below. 

At the end of January 2010 there were 646 Escondido homes for sale, a boost in inventory of 4% over December. This represents an inventory of 2.7 months for attached homes (down from 2.9 months last month) and 3.4 months for detached homes (down from 3.6 months), based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. 

READ MORE:   How Important is Inventory when Buying or Selling? Very!! 

In January 239 homes (up 37% over last month) came on the market, and 143 homes went pending, a drop of 15% from December pendings. 

I am happy to provide you with more information about current real estate activity in the Escondido real estate market and answer any questions that you may have about current market conditions.

 READ MORE: Escondido Real Estate - Escondido Real Estate Market Report for December 2009

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If I can provide more information about Escondido real estate and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2010 Jeff Dowler "The California Relocation Dude" Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

The first and only PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE will be held this Sunday January 17th at 1136 Hubbard Avenue in Escondido

Come PICK ORANGES and enjoy a personal tour of this unique property:

5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths (2 masters, 1 up and 1 down)

24 x 28 Detached Workshop

Citrus and Avocado Orchard

Separate Rental Unit at $850/month

2-Car Garage with Extra Storage Bay and Private Office

Fabulous Mountain Views

SUNDAY JANUARY 17th from 1 until 4 pm

Visit 1136 Hubbard for more information, photos and videos

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If I can provide more information about Escondido real estate and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2010 Jeff Dowler "The California Relocation Dude" Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

Escondido is an inland community, about 15 miles from the coast adjacent to San Marcos. Like its neighbors, San Marcos, Vista and Oceanside, Escondido has seen fairly significant shifts in the real estate market with a large number of short sales and foreclosures. 

READ MORE: A Tour of Escondido - A Diverse Inland San Diego Community 

As a buyer or seller in the Escondido real estate market, understanding recent trends and current market conditions is essential in order to make informed decisions; media reports focus on general market conditions and therefore will not provide an accurate picture of the local Escondido real estate market. 

The following data are taken from the San Diego MLS (private sales are not included in these statistics, nor are multifamily properties or mobile/manufactured homes). The data are believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed. 

In December 2009 180 homes sold in the Escondido real estate market, 13% more than in November. Here's the breakdown of overall activity. 

The volume of sales rose from November with little change in pricing. On average homes are selling at/above asking price (the range is 78% to 132% which is common for short sales and REOs).  

There were 241 Escondido homes (39% of all active properties) on the market with a Contingent i.e., short sale or REO homes that have offers being considered by lenders. These are included in the statistics below. 

At the end of December 2009 there were 619 Escondido homes for sale. This represents an inventory of 2.9 months for attached homes and 3.6 months for detached homes, based on the current rate of sales over the last 6 months. 

In December 175 homes came on the market, and 169 homes went pending. 

I am happy to provide you with more information about current real estate activity in the Escondido real estate market and answer any questions that you may have.

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If I can provide more information about Escondido real estate and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2010 Jeff Dowler "The California Relocation Dude" Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

Panoramic view homes with land are a rare find, especially near the coast. At least at a price folks consider somewhat affordable, say a million or so. 

Inland, such as in the Escondido real estate market, one can still find properties like this, although they are somewhat rare, for well under a million, with the trade off being a bit further from the beach but having less marine layer and warmed temperatures in the summers. 

READ MORE: A Tour of Escondido, A Diverse Inland San Diego Community

The Escondido real estate market has a rare offering for buyers looking for land, views and a spacious house. Here are the main features of this terrific home that just came on the market - the first PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE will be Sunday January 17^th from 1 - 4. Come enjoy the views and pick some oranges!!

1136 Hubbard Avenue in Escondido, CA 92027

Visit 1136 Hubbard Avenue for more information, photos and videos

  5 Bedrooms and 3.5 Baths

2 Master Suites (1 up and 1 down)

Approximately 2400 SF per Seller (buyer to verify)

Fabulous views from Yard and Upstairs Deck off Master Bedroom

2-Car Garage with Extra Storage Bay and Separate Office

2.7 Acres with Citrus and Avocado Orchard

1 Bedroom Rental Unit ($850/month income)

Large Detached Workshop (24' x 28')

2 Additional Outbuildings used as Rentals (Unpermitted - $1250/month)

 ~  Offered at $575,000  ~

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If I can provide more information about Escondido real estate and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2010 Jeff Dowler "The California Relocation Dude" Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

The Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens in Escondido California is a fabulous place for lunch (and dinner, too, I imagine). I had my first meal there today - what a cool place, both inside and out. 

Stone Brewing Company is celebrating their 13^th year (more on that in a moment) and is located at 1999 Citracado Parkway in Escondido, not far from the 78 freeway and the Nordahl Road exit.

It's rather a surprise, given the industrial location, but consider that it IS a brewery that happens to have terrific gardens, 2 great bars (one inside, one outside) and both indoor and outdoor dining with fabulous views of the lush gardens, koi pond, and, from the inside, views of the brewery itself through 2-story glass walls. 

They have a great menu - I enjoyed their Bruschetta BLT Sandwich ("Organic tomato bruschetta mix and arugula with crispy, all natural applewood-smoked bacon on toasted ciabatta bread. Spread with roasted garlic mayo, Carlsbad Gourmet Stone Pale Ale mustard and served with Chile-Lime Corn Chips") but it was a tough choice. Just take a gander at the lunch menu! As you would expect they have a wide array of brew selections - I opted for water as I have a client appointment soon after - didn't want to smell like Stone Brewery Company. 

Stone Brewing World Bistro and garden Escondido California is surrounded by gardens just out side, easily viewed from indoors or from the many places to sit outside. There is a lounge area plus a path that takes you all around the garden area. Currently they are hosting movies outdoors at 8:30 PM where you can enjoy being outside on a summer eve and enjoying a brew with friends while taking in the evening's selection, Young Frankenstein is coming up Wednesday August 16^th. 

Stone Brewing Company is a pretty cool company. They have a fresh food pick-up at their site on Fridays from Garden of Eden Organics, a local CSA or community supported agriculture (if you are in the area and want to sign up to get fresh vegetables you can).  

There is a company store on site to buy beer, clothing and memorabilia. And if you are looking for a fun time, join them on their 13thAnniversary Celebration on August 22 where they will also be raising funds for charity and 100 beers or so will be available to try. Imagine! 

Stone Brewery World Bistro and Gardens Escondido California is a wonderful place to have a casual lunch or dinner in a very unique setting, the Stone Brewing Company. Worth a visit in you are in the area. 

Follow them on Facebook and Twitter

Read THE STONE BLOG

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If I can provide more information about Escondido real estate and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2009 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

The Glass Ranch in the Del Dios area of Escondido, just up the hill from Lake Hodges, is a garden of delights. No, this is not a take-off on that famous painting, The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymous Bosch. 

But the Glass Ranch. with stunning gardens and glass works of art at every turn, is, in the same way, provocative, thoughtful, and filled with surprises, the handiwork of two talented, creative artists in a setting that is visually enticing and unique.

Garry Cohen and Cherrie La Porte Cohen are visionary creators of amazing glass works - fused glass sculpture, jewelry, blown glass, glasses, bronze sculpture and garden art and so much more. Their creativity is seen throughout the gallery, and the grounds surrounding their home and glass blowing shop, with glass art at every turn, in surprising places. One cannot separate the art from the garden, for the garden is a work of art itself. 

The Cohens' work is stunning in color, shape and texture, and meant to be enjoyed in many ways, indoors and out, and the Glass Ranch itself will inspire viewers to consider ways to enhance their own personal, garden or business environments. They have an open house and sale twice per year (taking place yesterday and today, then later this year), but are open for tours and glass blowing demonstrations by appointment.  

The Glass Ranch has been recognized by the area's press, including Better Homes and Gardens, the San Diego Union Tribune, the North County Times, the Carol Duvall Show, and Home and Garden TV Offbeat America, among many others. 

To see and learn more about these talented glass artists, visit their websites, and ENJOY THE VIRTUAL TOURS BELOW: 

Garry Cohen Studio

Cherrie La Porte 

Call for more information and to arrange a personal tour at 760-745-7020.

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If I can provide more information about Escondido Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2009 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

If you are interested in hiking with great views, and enjoy a few hours out in the Southern California weather, Elfin Forest is worth checking out.

Elfin Forest is a rural community just east of San Elijo Hills in San Marcos, and extending into the western part of Escondido. This is a residential area characterized by large parcels of land and homes set back from the winding 2-lane road, lots of horses, and plenty of open space, hills, and chaparral.

The Elfin Forest Recreational Preserve is a 760-acre open space day use park that has been developed by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. There are 14 miles of trails (which allow horse back riding, hikers, mountain biking and dogs) to enjoy, and spectacular views in all directions (including the ocean, about 12 miles away, and the islands) from the top at the Lake Hodges Overlook and other points.

The park is located on Harmony Grove Road (the road starts out as Elfin Forest Road in the town center at San Elijo Hills to the west), with the main parking left down the hill where the visitor center is located, and overflow parking along Harmony Grove just past the driveway.

The trail along the creek is level and easy to navigate. The Way Up Trail leads up the mountain to a picnic area overlooking the reservoir installed in recent years, about 2 miles. 

A Few Other Places I have enjoyed hiking:

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Idyllwild, California - A Hiker's Paradise

ENJOY THE TOUR!

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2008 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits

First Night celebrations have become popular around the country in many communities, some with traditions that have lasted for years. Certainly the one in Times Square, NYC is the most famous, and enjoyed by millions live and via TV.

[click photo for link to the website]

Escondido, an inland community about 30 minutes from the coast has one of the biggest First Night celebrations in the San Diego area, short of the one downtown. This year is the 14^th annual event, with activities and music beginning at 6 PM and lasting until midnight. The event is alcohol-free and great fun for everyone, including kids.

The First Night celebrations take place in two venues - the California Center for the Arts, and Grape Day park. The fireworks shows takes place at 9 and Midnight (it was canceled last year), and there is a Chinese Dragon parade at 9 PM at City Hall. To help avoid long lines in the past they have added more activities with 12 stages - plays, music, dancing, and more. More food will be available to the 7000 or so partiers expected.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Visit First Night Escondido for more information - you can buy tickets on-line for $10.

Here are a few other ways to celebrate: 

La Jolla - at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine for the Times Square West festivities with their own "ball drop."

New Year's Eve Gala aboard the Midway Aircraft Carrier downtown

Lots of other options to suit every budget and style in San Diego.

No matter how you celebrate be safe, and don't drink and drive.

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2008 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits