Mike

Thanks for the help, gentlemen. - Thu Aug 28 2008, 16:39

Hi! We are buying something and found out the Mello Roos in the Disclosure Source document Pacita mentioned. (Though we didn't get the document until after the purchase agreement was signed.)

We just had our place inspected by James Byrd of A Plus Home Inspections. http://www.aplushomeinspectionsonline.com/
He had great credentials and gave me two buyer references when I asked. He was courteous and personable and thorough. Plus he gave us a lower price than expected.

Another guy recommended by two agents here is Marc Harmon http://www.theinspector-home.com/
I called him initially and he was extremely busy. His quoted price was higher than on his web site and when I emailed him he said they were changed a month ago (no apology, just very curt). When I asked for references he ignored my request. Could be he was too busy and didn't need the job (he's also a contractor.) Take it for what you will.
Hope that helps--and best of success with your search! - Thu Aug 28 2008, 16:35

Everything is relative. We moved from suburban Detroit two years ago and love it. Downtown Modesto is much safer than downtown Detroit. The East and North parts of the city are much different/safer than the west and southwest areas. We've seen very little crime. (tho stat-wise it has the highest rate of car theft so your car insurance rate will be high.) I've not seen any gang evidence in the suburban areas. The young people have been pretty decent, especially those in the service industry (restaurants and retail stores)--much better service than back in suburban Detroit where the teens view customers as an intrusion.

Most people have been much friendlier than they were in Michigan! And the weather is SO much better, compared to a Michigan winter (or summer)! We are 90 minutes to two hours from San Francisco, San Jose, Yosemite, Sacramento, Santa Cruz, Monterey/Carmel, the coast, ocean and many national forests. You may also prefer Turlock or Tracy which isn't too far and have better reputations.
Best of success to you! - Tue Jul 15 2008, 02:13

Hi, Sam--Speaking from experience (two years listing with two different realtors), the agent makes a BIG difference. Our first one listed us on one site and did little marketing . The new one was very Net savvy (and knew how best to list the features of the home) and we got more hits per week than we had in THREE MONTHS. The first was always negative and argued with me on everything. The second was positive (but realistic) and is doing a great job in the WORST market since the Depression.

And I (respectfully) disagree with those who think the price is everything. We've had three offers and they all started heavily under the asking price, so that number is arbitrary--buyers will offer as little as they want and do not care about your price.
We negotiated back and forth till we agreed on a price. However, the banks have gotten so paranoid they have overcompensated for the loose standards and now hardly anyone can get approved. (Like it's our fault!)

We accepted two offers in the last quarter and both fell thru due to lack of financing! Agonizingly frustrating, so we are looking to lease as well, if possible. Don't give up and definitely talk to your agent or switch if you're not happy! Best of success. - Tue Jul 15 2008, 01:31