February 18, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER for both Sellers (A.D. and Judy Staggs) and Buyers (Phalin and Susie Klusman) in another transaction with a happy ending (beginning!). By the time this hits your roof, the Staggs’s will have wired the proceeds of this sale into their Texas escrow and closed on their new home there. Also by the time you read this, Phalin and Susie (and boys) will be busy moving into the gorgeous Westside home we searched for and found. Another win/win adventure! The only kind of deal I want to be a part of.

YOU’VE HEARD me say this before: It’s easier to work with the other Realtor in a transaction when you ARE the “other Realtor”. I always show my Buyer clients my own listings because (he sez humbly) they’re usually the best value on the market! My Sellers can be assured that if I bring the Buyer, they’ve been pre-approved with a competent lender and they’re ready to go! It also helps to have extremely nice people on both sides of the transaction. This was the case in the above-mentioned sale. If you have reasonable people on both sides of the transaction, there’s nothing you can’t handle! After over 21 years in this bizness in Lodi, I’ve been blessed with a wealth of very fine clients. I’m a happy man. It’s a joy to come to work!

FOOTNOTE: Phalin and Susie own a great business called The Senior’s Choice. Their motto is “Helping Seniors Live At Home”. Whether a person needs a weekly visit or fulltime care, The Senior’s Choice can help. I’m impressed with the extensive screening employees must undergo in order to be hired by The Senior’s Choice. The screening even includes drug testing! Phalin and Susie take the responsibility of their profession seriously. I’m glad to give The Senior’s Choice a little ink. Questions? The number is 369-7712.

OPEN TODAY 12 noon to 2 p.m.! 5201 East Woodbridge Road is a value at the new price of $634,950! I’ve attended weddings and church picnics in the Micke Grove-like back yard! Five minutes from Lodi! Huge deck! Shaded lawn! Family orchard! This three-bedroom two-and-a-half-bath ranch-style home is nestled in a landscaped acre of peace and contentment. Statesman’s John Manguso will host an Open House again today.

MOTHER’S DAY REVISITED: I received a list of 25 things Tony Kahl sez he learned from his Mother. Examples:

“My mother taught me to APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE: ‘If you’re going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning.’”

“My mother taught me RELIGION: ‘You’d better pray that will come out of the carpet.’”

“My mother taught me HUMOR: ‘When that lawnmower cuts off your toes, don’t come running to me!’”

Thanks, Tony. And Thank You to all Moms! Hope you enjoyed your special Day.

Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

February 11, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

“BE WHO YOU ARE and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” This wisdom comes from Dr. Suess, whose real name was Theodor Geisel. He also wrote under the pen names of Theo. LeSieg (Geisel backward) and Rosetta Stone.

THE GOOD “DOCTOR” was quite a character. He moved to La Jolla, just north of San Diego, in 1948. A bit of trivia: The elephant Horton of “Horton Hears A Who” fame (Remember that little book?) just happens to bear a striking resemblance to Alonzo Horton, the founder of the present-day city of San Diego.

PRICE REDUCED! OPEN TODAY 12 noon to 2 p.m.! 5201 East Woodbridge Road is now priced at $634,950! Located five minutes from Lodi on a beautifully landscaped acre, this three-bedroom two-and-a-half-bath home was a great deal BEFORE the recent price drop. Now, it’s better yet! Statesman’s John Manguso will host an Open House today. Come and see what the fuss is all about!

ALONZO HORTON (mentioned above) was a character in his own right. He bought acres and acres of prime waterfront land (today’s San Diego) for a song. Then, upon discovering that he could sell corner lots for a higher price, he proceeded to shorten the city blocks of the new town he was mapping! Shorter blocks meant more corner lots. Next time you slog your way through stop after stop in downtown San Diego, take a deep breath and utter a word of thanks (or whatever comes to mind) to good old Alonzo.

PRICE REDUCED! OPEN TODAY 2:30 to 4:30! John Manguso will host this one, too. 303 Rainier Drive is a lovely, well-maintained Westside home with 1814 square feet of living area. Built by Lodi’s own Loren Perry, this home has received a LOT of interest since it was listed three weeks ago. Nevertheless, my Seller decided to increase the value by lowering the price ten thousand bucks! New price: $429,950. If you hurry. Going, going…

“Never lick a steak knife.” This from Dave Barry, who now speaks with forked tongue.

RABBIT TRAILS CONT’D: Since this column seems to be loaded with digressions already, let me observe that thinking of San Diego makes me think of Coronado Island, that pricey enclave across the bay from San Diego made famous by the Hotel Del Coronado. The island is also notable for having the highest concentration of retired U.S. Navy admirals of any area in the world. A hundred years ago, the island was a mass of sand dunes populated mainly by jackrabbits. A couple of young fellers whose names I disremember bought the island and began development. Later they were bought out by a sweet guy named Spreckels (Heard of Spreckels Sugar?). Spreckels was one of the players in the building of the Hotel Del, as it’s affectionately nicknamed. Julie and I strolled in the moonlight along Coronado Beach recently, ending up wandering through the Hotel Del. There’s loads of history there! Not a jackrabbit in sight these days.

Have a great week! See you next Sat with CONGRATULATIONS to two more families! And if you run across anyone who needs a hardworking Realtor, please call me with their name and number! I promise to serve them as I’d serve you.

Statesman Realty
(209) 333 2380

1-800-407-SOLD (7653)
Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com
Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

February 4, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

THE SATURDAY SUN was warm on my back as I sat munching the Seafood Platter on the rooftop patio of Ruby’s Café, a fifties-style diner perched at the very end of the Balboa Pier, a quarter-mile out into the blue Pacific. The waitress told me that I had just missed the sight of a large whale who had cavorted for an hour or so near the pier before moving on to other pursuits. Oh, well.

I RAISED MY milkshake in a mock salute as the jet carrying the other members of the Lodi Association of Realtors’ Board of Directors passed directly overhead, rising from John Wayne Airport on its way north. My fellow sufferers were homeward bound, but I got to stay and play for a day! Life is good.

WE HAD JUST completed three and a half days of California Association of Realtors conferences in Anaheim. Many good and worthwhile things had been accomplished, along with a fair amount of droning from the I-love-the-sound-of-my-own-voice contingent that is an inevitable part of any group of this kind. Ya gotta love ‘em. Sometimes these folks say something worth considering!

Three times a year, representatives from each of California’s local Realtor Associations come together to vote on changes to the forms and contracts we use statewide, to plan political strategy that protects property owners’ rights, and to cover a wide array of other business. It’s a worthy endeavor in some ways reminiscent of the early days of our country, when “citizen statesmen” would take time away from their homes and farms and businesses to labor for the good of the nation…for free! Nowadays, we’ve grown so accustomed to the idea of professional politicians that the citizen statesman concept is revolutionary. Just think what politics would be like if politicians served without pay! (I guess that would still eliminate average citizens like us, people who need to work for groceries, but it might shake some of the jokers out of the deck!).

I COULDN’T EVEN THINK of being away if it weren’t for my intrepid right-hand assistant, Greg Adams. Greg nurses my escrows, manages my listings, and works with my Buyers when I have to be away. I’m always only a cell-phone call away if there’s a need, but the day-to-day biz just flows along under Greg’s sure hand. Thanks, man!

CONGRATULATIONS to another pair of Mystery Clients on their successful purchase of a fine new Kirk Robinson-built home! Happy beginnings for my Buyers and another beautiful product from Kirk. I want to thank Kathy Williams, the listing agent on this transaction, for her help. Thank you, Kathy!

BACK ON THE MARKET: The former Buyer’s loss may be your gain! My Sellers at 5201 East Woodbridge Road in Acampo are ready for your offer. As you may recall, we had just reduced the asking price on this charming ranchette to $639,950 when it entered escrow. Great ranch-style single-story home! A landscaped acre of shade trees, lawn and deck! Family orchard! More! Now’s your chance. My Sellers are partially packed. Call for a private showing!

IT FEELS GOOD to serve mah fellow Realtors again. The last time I did the Presidential Shuffle was in the late ‘90’s. Now I’m back as a “retread”. Following 2006 Lodi Association of Realtors Prez Paul Mertz, I’ll serve as LAR President in 2007. Then…that’s it! That’s enough. Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

January 28, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

SLIGHTLY TWEAKED BIBLE STORIES: My friend Erika Adams (Greg’s bride of 30-plus years) forwarded me the following. The prologue explains that these quotes were taken verbatim from test papers at a parochial elementary school. The misspellings were left intact, which adds to the fun. If you have even a little Bible knowledge, you’ll get a chuckle out of some of these kid-quotes. I’ll sprinkle a few of these through today’s column just to keep you interested.. Here we go:

“In the first book of the Bible, Guinnessis, God got tired of creating the world so He took the Sabbath off.”

“Adam and Eve were created from an apple tree. Noah’s wife was Joan of Ark. Noah built and ark and the animals came in pears.”

“Lots wife was a pillar of salt by day, but a ball of fire by night.”

Okay. A little real estate talk. I’m happy to report that my listings are SELLING so quickly that my personal listing inventory could use replenishing! What a happy problem. If you run into an expert (Definition of an expert: Somebody from out of town who’s carrying a briefcase) who is waxing eloquent about the real estate bubble, send ‘em my way! I love a good laugh.

JUST LISTED: Ground-floor condo! 700 McCoy Court, Number 46 is a cute and clean two-bedroom one-bath with a HUGE (as in Sunwest-sized. Who’da thunkit?) walk-in closet in the larger bedroom! More great features: Attached one-car garage just off of the kitchen! Rare in a Lodi condo. Laundry hookups in garage. Extra storage! Good location! This home is a value at $199,950.

“Samson slayed the Philistines with the Axe of the Apostles.”

“Moses led the Jews to the Red Sea where they made unleavened bread which is bread without any ingredients.”

“The Egyptians were all drowned in the dessert. Afterwards, Moses went up to Mount Cyanide to get the Ten Commandments.”

“The First Commandments was when Eve told Adam to eat the apple.”

THE TOP TEN! End Of The Spear landed on the Hollywood list of the top ten box-office draws last weekend! Seen it yet?

I HAVE PRE-APPROVED BUYERS looking for a Kristmont or Willow Glen home up to $800,000. We’ve seen everything that’s currently out there. Know anyone who may be thinking of a move? These folks have NO home to sell. They’re just waiting for that right property to come along.

THE CAPPER: “Christians have only one spouse. This is called monotony.” Somehow I don’t think these kids aced their Bible tests. Tha-tha-that’s all, folks! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

January 21, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

VOTE WITH YOUR WALLET: The movie I spoke of last week, End Of The Spear, opened yesterday at Lodi’s Stadium 12 Cineplex. In case you’re unfamiliar with it, this is the story of five young missionaries who (fifty years ago last Sunday) were killed by the bloodthirsty Waodani tribe in the rainforests of Ecuador. The missionaries’ wives returned to Ecuador, risking their own lives, and befriended the tribe. The story’s told through the eyes of the young son of one of the men who was martyred. Powerful!

The best way to inspire the Hollywood types to deliver quality films is to throw down your cash and SEE the good ones when they come along. Opening Weekend is crucial to the moguls’ evaluation on whether a movie gets widespread exposure or a quick trip to DVD land. Go see this flick this weekend! Tell ‘em I sent ya. You’ll get a souvenir ticket stub.

ALTHO I’VE HEARD great things about End Of The Spear, I’ve actually SEEN The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Twice! Excellent film. It’s so gratifying to see new movies that are genuinely entertaining and well-made. Enjoy!

NEW LISTING! This one’s a beauty. Built in 1976 by respected local builder Loren Perry as his personal residence, 303 Rainier Drive is 1814 square feet of comfortable home. Great Westside location, too! I like the step-down Family Room with its rustic exposed-beam ceiling and massive masonry fireplace. Separate Living Room! Large Laundry Room with deep sink! Tile roof! Three good-sized bedrooms. One impressive feature: There’s storage everywhere! I was amazed as my Seller showed me the wealth of cupboards and cabinets. All this for $439,950? If you hurry.

WE’RE NEGOTIATING with a Buyer on 2452 Grenoble Court as I write this, but an offer doesn’t always mean a sale. As of this writing, Grenoble is very much on the market! Built by Richard Entzi, this spacious one-story home is nestled at the end of the cul-de-sac on a HUGE (over 12,000 square feet) professionally-landscaped lot. I could wax eloquent about the many custom features of this fine home, but I’ll let you discover for yourself! At $789,000, this home is a value.

CUTE AND CLEAN! My upstairs condo listing on McCoy Court features recently-remodeled kitchen, fresh interior paint, and more! A special feature you don’t usually find in Lodi condos: Your garage is only steps from your home here! At $188,950, you can’t go wrong! Call me for details.

I’M AMAZED at the current market. I fully expected the recent “topping out” of the residential real estate market to follow the pattern I remembered from the last time around (1990). You may remember: The market turned on a dime from Seller’s Market to Buyer’s Market, from hot to cold, seemingly overnight! Not so this time. Prices have settled, without a doubt. Sellers must get their prices in line with reality if they expect to sell. But Buyers are still buying! It’s a much healthier market environment than the recent past. Personally, I couldn’t ask for a better January…Thanks to many of YOU!

GOTTA GO! See you at Stadium 12! Have a great week.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

January 14, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

SPEAR OR BE SPEARED: The Waodani tribe in the eastern rainforest of Ecuador lived and died by this creed. The Waodani was the most violent society ever documented by anthropologists. Five Christian missionaries journeyed into the jungle to reach these people.

THEY DIDN”T GO UNPREPARED. They knew what they were getting into. These five young men were “prayed up”. They had the prayers and support of their wives. They had agreed that they would not return violence with violence. They were rewarded for their efforts with death at the hands of the Waodani.

AMONG THE FIVE men was Jim Elliot, for whom Jim Elliot Christian High School is named. Jim Elliot’s most famous quote is probably “He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”

THE REST OF THE STORY: The wives of these slain missionaries returned to the place where their husbands had been murdered. They met their husbands’ killers. Over years, they demonstrated the love of Jesus Christ to these violent people, and gradually lives (and the culture) have been changed.

THE INDEPENDENT MOVIE, “End Of The Spear”, arrives at Stadium 12 in Lodi and other theaters around January 20. My pastor, Tim Stevenson, attended a preview. His observation: “You know how so many movies say, ‘Based on a true story’ though they may be miles from the actual truth? Note the fact that this movie is NOT ‘based on a true story’. It IS the true story!” Tim couldn’t say enough good things about this film.

A GREAT WEBSITE: endofthespear.com. Learn more about the film, arrange for group ticket sales for your church or group, and enjoy the great graphics and features!

OUR LOCAL JUNGLE: The inventory of active listings in Lodi (single family homes and condos) appears to have stabilized. We’re hovering at around 250 to 270 listings after topping 300 at one point recently. The transition to a more “normal” real estate market is well under way. Good!

SANITY CLAUSE: A semblance of balance has returned to the real estate market. The manic days of multiple offers and overbidding are behind us (and, of course, ahead of us too if you can see far enough into the future. History DOES repeat itself).

CONGRATULATIONS to longtime clients Richard and Valerie Mahoney on the successful sale of their investment property! Always a pleasure, folks! Thanks also to Lodi Realtor Wilma Bauer, who represented the Buyers in this adventure. I worked with Wilma a couple of decades ago at Schaffer Suess and Boyd Realtors. Thanx, Wilma!

ANOTHER GREAT WEBSITE (If I do say so myself): statesmanrealty.com. You can check out multiple photos and information on all of our (wonderful) listings, use the Mortgage Calculator to answer that “What would my payment be?” question, and a whole lot more. Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 23801-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

January 7, 2006

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

OFF AND RUNNING! Ready or not, the New Year is under way. Here at Statesman Realty, we’ve made our preparations for our BEST YEAR EVER in 2006!

JUST LISTED: SUNWEST BEAUTY! 2452 Grenoble Court has the casual elegance Lodians have come to expect in a Richard Entzei-buit home. LIKE NEW: Situated on a huge (over 12,000 square-foot) lot, this single-story home has been so well-maintained that it’s hard to believe it was built in 2000! Custom features abound, from the oversized walk-in shower in the Master Suite to the beautifully landscaped back yard. Secluded cul-de-sac living at its best. Interested in more information? Just call me at 333-2380. Price: $789,000.

WE’RE NEGOTIATING with a prospective Buyer at the time of this writing, but it ain’t sold as of now: 516 Tamarack is a great opportunity for the right Buyer: A three-bedroom one-bath home PLUS a one-bedroom cottage! All on a nice Westside residential street. At the asking price of $409,950 the Sellers will install NEW COMP ROOFS on both buildings! Such a deal.

CONGRATULATIONS to Mike and Michelle Nickerson on the successful SALE of their Lodi home, AND on the purchase of their new place! We’ll congratulate another Mystery Client on their sale too, since the Nickersons bought their mysterious home! Got all that? Sometimes you need a program just to keep up on the players. All of the above was in-house, so the Realtor who deserves the accolades is my right-hand assistant Greg Adams. Thanks, Greg. Another happy ending all around!

ROCKIN’! I’m excited about the way this year is shaping up…and I’m writing this on January fourth! In spite of the increase in the inventory of active listings and the subsequent softening of the market, Buyers are still buying and Sellers are selling! Our momentum didn’t let up, right through the Holidays. The real estate climate may have changed, but folks still need to move! (We’re actually moving into more of a “normal” market after years of a rabid Seller’s market).

NIBBLES but so far no bites on 700 McCoy Court, Number 18. It’s that nicely remodeled two-bedroom upstairs condo with the upgraded kitchen and its own GARAGE just a few steps away! At $189,950 it’s a great value. Has it been waiting for you or someone you know?

ANOTHER OFFER on 5201 East Woodbridge Road, but no deal as of this writing! Here’s a great value in a close-to-town ranchette. Mature landscaping front and back. Huge shade trees overlooking an inviting wooden deck and spacious lawn areas. Family orchard. Country home with three bedrooms, two baths, and a half-bath off of the oversized 2-car garage. All of this for the reduced price of $639,950? Someone’s gonna snatch this one up soon.

1517 Camphor Way is one of the sharpest homes I’ve had the pleasure of marketing! I just ran a fresh search of actively listed homes in the price range around $459,950: This home’s the big winner! 2125 square feet. Three bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Formal Dining Room! 40-year composition roof (under a year old)! Spa! Gazebo! Custom oversized tile flooring! There’s more to say, but I’m out of room! Don’t wait on this one…

I WISH YOU your very own best year yet in 2006! Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty
(209) 333 2380

1-800-407-SOLD (7653)
Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com
Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

December 31, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

TIME TO SAY THANKS: It’s been a great year! One of the gratifying things about being a 21-year veteran of the Lodi-area Real Estate bizness is the wealth of relationships built over decades of working together with many of YOU. I look back over 2005 with a sense of satisfaction and a whole lot of gratitude to those who allowed me to serve them AND those who referred their friends and family my way. THANK YOU!

THANKS, UNCLE! Your Uncle Sam needs your help again. Postage stamp prices are scheduled to jump from 37 cents to 39 cents around January 8. Members of my Client Appreciation Program are receiving an “emergency care package” containing a few two-cent stamps to carry them through the early January bill-paying frenzy. (If you’re a CAP member, watch your mail for your stamps!).

You don’t have to be an actual past client to be a part of my CAP Program. If you read this little rant, you qualify! Six hundred or so folks receive regular items of value from me, everything from money-saving strategies to how-to-increase-the-value-of-your-home information to helps like this month’s. All I ask is that you remember me to your friends and family when they need a dependable Realtor! To become a part of my Client Appreciation Program, call me or give your mailing info to Debbie Mason, my Director of First Impressions. I’d love to add you to my jolly little band.

NEXT WEEK we’ll get back into the groove with updates on some great listings! I’m happy to report that, as happens every year, we continued to negotiate transactions and close sales all the way through the Holiday season (and some say you can’t sell anything this time of year!). Come this Monday, we’ll hit the ground running and start 2006 with a bang!

Jim Rohn is described as “America’s foremost business philosopher”. He makes the observation that human beings are the only animals on the planet who have the ability to make the conscious decision to change their lives.

As we close in on the new year, it’s a natural time to take stock and evaluate what’s working for us and what’s not. Surveys show that a generation ago, almost everyone made New Years resolutions. These days, almost NO ONE makes ‘em. Why? My guess is because a lightweight resolve can’t bring about lasting change. However, we human types CAN make the decision to reinvent ourselves if we’re serious! We don’t have to stay stuck in the rut of the past, and this is a great time of year to take stock and see what needs changing!

Somebody said, “If you keep on doin’ what you’ve kept on doin’, you’ll keep on gettin’ what you’ve kept on gettin’.” Somebody else defined madness as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.

Let’s you and I make a mutual agreement to (1) take a good look at our lives, and (2) with God’s help, make 2006 OUR YEAR to finally slay whatever dragon we’re facing! Next time you see me I plan to be skinnier. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Statesman Realty
(209) 333 2380

1-800-407-SOLD (7653)
Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com
Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

December 24, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

CHRISTMAS EVE. I don’t usually get to say Hello to you on the day before my Boss’s birthday. This year the party falls on a Sunday! Our church (Horizon in Galt) is celebrating the special day with “Church In A Box”, a DVD that families can enjoy together as they relax in their jammies on Christmas morning. A little Christmas music, a dose of humor here and there, and a short Christmas message from Pastor Tim.

I’VE HEARD of other churches that will enjoy rousing Christmas Day services tomorrow morning! That’s great, too. As long as His birthday gets celebrated, the method doesn’t much matter.

OVERSEAS, many of our sons and daughters in the military will celebrate what will probably prove to be one of the strangest Christmases of their lives. Catching a little cheer as they find it in the midst of carrying out their mission, these men and women are far from the family living room on this day. To each of them: Thank you for your gift to us.

The Maker’s Manual has a lot to say about gifts. The Wise Men brought gifts for the baby Jesus, gifts they had carried from their homes far away. Another passage regarding gifts is found in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23).

Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends…” (John 15:13) Now there’s a gift.

That verse reminds me of another, this one in Paul’s letter to the Philippian church. Paul writes, “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, Who although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

It seems there’s a whole lot more to Jesus than the cuddly babe in the manger, wouldn’t you agree?

I’m very much aware that I’ve been ransomed, “bought with a price” as the Bible sez. Being rescued by Jesus Christ after royally screwing up your life has a distinct advantage: You never have any illusions about your own “goodness”. You KNOW you deserve “the wages of sin” mentioned above. You KNOW that the “free gift of eternal life through Christ Jesus” is your only hope (and all the hope you need). You know that every breath you take is a gift from the God Who loves you, warts and all.

“RELIGION”? Hardly. Religion has been described as man’s attempt to reach God. RELATIONSHIP: That’s what I’m talkin’ about. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:16). And that Son, Whose birthday we celebrate tomorrow, wants to build a relationship with you. I’d be happy to introduce you! Merry CHRISTmas.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

December 17, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

KID STUFF: Chuck Deeter sent me some letters kids wrote to “God’s Mailbox”. I’ll sprinkle a few through this week’s ramble. Some made me laugh, and some made me think!

“Dear God, Are you really invisible or is that just a trick?”……..Lucy.

MY LISTING at 1517 Camphor Way is still for sale! The Offer we were working on last week didn’t turn into a sale, so it’s still there for YOU! This super-clean two-story home has three bedrooms and two full baths upstairs, plus a half-bath downstairs. Tiled wet bar! Formal Dining Room! Spa and gazebo! More! This home is priced well at $459,950.

“Dear God, I want to be just like my Daddy when I get big but not with so much hair all over.”………Sam.

“Dear God, Did you mean for giraffe to look like that or was it an accident (sic).”……….Norma.

CONGRATULATIONS to Mrs. Lillian Miller on the successful SALE of her home! Mrs. Miller was referred to me by her in-laws, Ray and Wilma Weber. The Webers met me through their son Steve and his wife Lori, who I’ve worked with on several home sales and purchases over the past fifteen years or so. Steve and Lori have sent me several friends and family members. It’s fun to draw out a “referral tree” that looks like a family tree, tracing the thread of influence from friend to friend. Thanks to ALL of you for your trust! I take it seriously. Thanks also to Realtor Lance Hill, who brought the Buyers to this adventure. Thanx, Lance!

MY FRIEND Paul Moos tells me it’s PRUNING TIME again! Paul’s twenty-plus years of horticulture and landscape experience are evident in our recently-landscaped front and back yards! It’s great to work with someone who knows their craft well. The price is right, too! If you need pruning, large or small, call Paul at 365-6028. And say Hello for me. (I’m careful about making recommendations, but I have no hesitation in referring you to Paul. He’s great!).

“Dear God, Instead of letting people die and having (sic) to make new ones why don’t you just keep the ones you got now?”……….Jane.

“Dear God, I think about you sometimes even when I’m not praying.”……Elliott.

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK: 951 Shadow Creek Drive is a beautifully-maintained North Stockton home on the corner of Shadow Creek and Shady Oaks. 1874 square feet of home! Three bedrooms and two baths, with a bonus room that could easily become a fourth bedroom! Upgrades galore! Gorgeous customized Master Suite with built-in entertainment center, custom fireplace, and Jacuzzi in the remodeled Master Bathroom! It’s hard to believe that this well-located home is still around at the list price of $419,000. Don’t snooze!

“Dear God, If you let the dinasor not exstinct we would not have a country (sic). You did the right thing.”…….Jonathan.

On that note, I’ll call it a wrap. More kid’s letters next week! I saved some doozies for later. Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

December 10, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

STATESMAN REALTY’s Pat Piccardo has had a good year. Congratulate him when you see him! Pat and fellow Statesman Realtor John Manguso (who is also ending this year with a bang) just closed another transaction this week. These guys are cookin’!

I feel like a proud Papa. My deliberately-small office of hand-picked Realtors is prospering. Veteran Broker Associate Don Brandt is Old Faithful (He may take issue with the “old” part), consistently serving the base of client-friends he has built up over thirty years or so. Longtime Realtor Sherry Dickhoff has become the trusted advisor to her own select group of clients (Sherry has big plans for this coming year!). And Greg Adams, my right-hand Assistant AND a fulltime Realtor with his own loyal clients, is finishing 2005 in style (It’s always nice to end the year with a few successfully closed transactions!).

WE ALL have a relatively small group of very special people to thank: Many of YOU! You know who you are. My friend and longtime mentor Brian Buffini asks this question: “Would you rather have a real estate practice that’s mile wide and an inch deep, or an INCH WIDE and a MILE DEEP?” My Associates and I recognize that we don’t need to work with everyone in town. In fact, we couldn’t! I’ve modeled the philosophy of working with a few nice people and asking them to refer me to their friends (Who are invariably ALSO nice people). That’s it. It works. Thanks again.

WE’RE DANCIN’ with a Buyer on 1517 Camphor Way at the time of this writing (The Offer/Counter Offer Shuffle). However, knowing that it ain’t a deal until it’s a deal, John Manguso will hold this super-sharp home OPEN AGAIN TODAY from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.! This exceptionally clean two-story home has three bedrooms and two full baths upstairs, plus a half-bath downstairs (Next to the tiled wet bar!). Formal Dining Room! Spa and gazebo! More! No wonder it’s getting such interest. At $459,950, this home is the best value in its class!

ALSO OPEN AGAIN TODAY from 2:30 to 4:30: 5201 East Woodbridge Road! This one-of-a-kind ranchette has been REDUCED in price to $659,950! Five minutes from Lodi (Four minutes if I’m driving)! Close-in country livin’ with in-town convenience. Landscaped front and back yards! One full acre! Family orchard! Mature shade trees! Sellers say that there’s an opportunity to buy the adjacent acre for $58,000 with the purchase of this property. Drop by, say Hello to John, and check this place out!

JUST LISTED! TWO HOMES ON ONE LOT! 516 Tamarack Drive consists of a three-bedroom main house with central heat and air, almost all new vinyl-clad dual-pane windows, and a lot of Westside charm…PLUS a one-bedroom detached cottage that could be perfect for an elderly parent, an adult child who needs some space, or as a guest cottage. NEW COMP ROOFS for both homes are on the way! Still time to choose your colors. All this for $409,950? We already have interested parties on this one, so I’d suggest a little swiftness if this fits for you.

THANK YOU. As I wrap up my twenty-first year in real estate in Lodi, I just can’t say enough about the folks who have contributed SO much to my success over the years. YOU know who you are. And whether you’re on my short list of special people or a future friend, have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty
(209) 333 2380

1-800-407-SOLD (7653)
Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com
Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

December 3, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

HOW DO I LOVE THEE? LET ME COUNT THE FLAVORS: Julie and I celebrated our thirty-first anniversary this past week. My brother-in-law, Gary Endermann, was musing on the themes for different landmark anniversary years. “Let’s see…25 years is your Silver Anniversary and 50 years is your Golden Anniversary. 31 years must be…your BASKIN ROBBINS Anniversary!” Julie and I celebrated accordingly.

CONGRATULATIONS are in order for another Mystery Client on the successful SALE of their rental property! This particular client is really no mystery…It’s Julie and me! We’re exchanging out of one income property and into one or two others. (Yes, we still believe in real estate despite the Chicken Littles). A big Thank You to Fremont Realtor Sylvia Ponce for her work in representing the Buyer in this adventure. Thanx, Sylvia!

FREMONT REALTOR? You bet. I’ve found that most Sellers have no preference as to where the Buyer comes from as long as they can close the deal! More and more Bay Area Realtors are joining our cutting-edge Metrolist Multiple Listing System for the obvious benefits of Valley real estate. (Price, f’rinstance). Metrolist now has over 28,000 Realtor members from above Sacramento all the way south to Merced and west into the Bay Area. This is a GOOD thing for homesellers!

OPEN TODAY! Statesman’s own John Manguso will hold 1517 Camphor Way open from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. today! This super-clean two-story home features three good-sized bedrooms and two full baths upstairs, plus a half-bath downstairs. Plenty of special touches here! Tiled wet bar! Formal Dining Room! Spa and gazebo! More! At $459,950, this fine home is a value.

OPEN TODAY from 2:30 to 4:30: 5201 East Woodbridge Road! Back on the market and awaiting that right family. This is one charming ranchette. Five minutes from Lodi, but it feels like country. Landscaped front and back yards! One full acre with family orchard, shade trees, and a opportunity to buy the adjacent acre for $58,000 with the purchase of this neat property (Now priced at $659,950)! Come and see it today!

CONGRATULATIONS, CONT’D. When you see Mrs. Inez Howe, give her a big high-five! Be careful, now. She’s in her eighties. Twenty-plus years ago, I worked with her late husband at what was then called Schaffer, Suess and Boyd Realtors. Tom Howe was a genuinely nice man. He had a wealth of stories of his younger days, working in the logging business up in the Ebbetts Pass area. I was a young-and-hungry Realtor with a family to feed and a schedule to meet, but I’d always enjoy slowing down a bit to talk to Tom. I don’t think he ever met anyone he didn’t like.

Mrs. Howe remembered our friendship and called me when she was ready to sell. As I always try to do when working with older folk, I enlisted the help of her son to make sure the entire family was “in the loop” as we began the marketing process. (Thanks for your help, Lee!). Now we’re closing escrow! Thank You to Realtor Rochelle Castro (Buyer’s agent) for a job well done.

Time to run! Another listing appointment. Know someone who needs my services? Please call me with their name and number! I promise to serve them well. Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty
(209) 333 2380

1-800-407-SOLD (7653)
Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com
Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

November 26, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

TRUTH IN ADVERTISING…It has been pointed out to me that my mug shot in this little column has been more than a little outdated for some time. At first I was in denial. “That picture’s just a couple of years old!” Then, when I began cultivating the current crop of fur, I had to face the obvious (no pun intended).

THE TURNING POINT CAME when a prospective client dropped by with the column in hand. He took one look at me and another at the column and asked, “Do you have a son named Larry?”

That didn’t really happen, but it’s kind of a running gag among Realtors. “Do you have a daughter named (fill in the blank)?” Many Realtors’ business cards sport photos that were accurate a decade ago. Hey, change happens! Raise your hand if you’ve ever looked in the mirror and asked, “How did my (Dad/Mom) get in there?” You don’t feel any different, but da mirror don’t lie.

MOTIVATED SELLERS! Here’s a home that I expected to see in the Pending category by now. Maybe it’s been waiting for you! Vinewood schools! Great Westside location! Tastefully remodeled and updated! 2100 Corbin Lane has been recently REDUCED to $359,950. What’s not to like?

NEWS FLASH: My Sellers of 306 West Turner DID tie down the home they’d like to purchase! Their deal is hinged on the sale of (what else?) 306 West Turner. In the five days it’s been listed (as of this writing), this home has received SIX showings! Prediction: This one won’t last long. It’s a nicely-remodeled two-bedroom with a Family Room that can be called a third bedroom. Two upgraded bathrooms! There’s a lot more to tell, but come see for yourself! $319,950.

MIRRORS, CONT’D…As I grew this fuzzy face, there were times when I’d catch a glimpse of myself in a window and dig into my pocket for spare change. I looked like I should be on a corner with a sign: “Will sell real estate for food”. Now that the beard’s grown in a bit, I like it all right (and more importantly, Julie’s OK with it). My face will be WARM this winter!

CONGRATULATIONS to Statesman Realtor Greg Adams and his clients on the successful SALE of their Lodi rental property. Way to go, Greg!

IT’S BACK! 5207 East Woodbridge Road was temporarily off the market, but now you have another chance at it! Close-in country! Wooded, landscaped acre with family orchard! Charming ranch-style home! $659,950!

THERE’S A FAMILY STORY about a distant aunt of mine who fell in love with a circus acrobat. He whisked her away to a new life on the road. Trouble was, she needed to find a way to earn her keep in the circus. She settled on a gig as…the Bearded Lady. This necessitated regular shaving, of course, to grow the needed accessory. Unfortunately, as the story goes, the romance faded as the beard came in. She was left with no feller and a face full of fur. Don’t try it, ladies. Heartbreak is sure to follow!

MORE PEARLS of wisdom in next week’s rant. Hope your Thanksgiving was great. See you next Sat!

Statesman Realty

(209) 333 2380
1-800-407-SOLD (7653)

Website: www.larrysellslodi.com
Website: www.larryunderhill.com

Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com

November 19, 2005

THE REAL (ESTATE) STORY
By Larry Underhill

LAST WEEK’S front-page Home of the Week was an interesting mix of fact and fiction. The printed information on 1517 Camphor Way was correct: Great floor plan, excellent price per square foot (under 217.00 per foot), pristine condition, nice neighborhood. At $459,950 it’s a great buy!

THE FUN BEGAN when the reader checked out the photo. A fine looking home indeed! Definitely not 1517 Camphor Way, but a nice-looking pad to be sure. Whose home WAS that? We may never know. If I was feeling really frisky I’d make a crack about the Sentinel folks smoking their lunch that day or some such…but since I value my relationship with this fine newspaper I’ll refrain from any humorous comments.

A FORMER PASTOR of mine was fond of saying, “I always want to give people an extra measure of grace…because I know the day will come when I’ll need some myself.” Good words. I know I make my share of miscues. This minor error is no big. My good-natured Sellers took it all in stride, the News Sentinel is printing some kind of correction today (it’s in here somewhere!), and life goes on. It was good for a chuckle!

OPEN TODAY from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m.: 723 East Century Place! This $339,950 home has an accepted contingency offer that frankly looks like it’ll work, but I decided to give the home a little extra exposure just in case. Statesman’s John Manguso will host this home AND…

OPEN TODAY from 2:30 to 4:30: 2100 Corbin Lane! My Sellers have reduced the price on this fine Westside home AGAIN! Now $359,950! Freshly remodeled! New composition roof! Updated kitchen and baths! Vinewood schools! Such a deal.

SPEAKING OF price reductions: That shop building in the alley at 7 West Chestnut (behind Daniger’s Furniture) has been REDUCED to $199,950! When you consider that this price includes about 2,000 square feet of shop space, office and storage you can see that it’s a value. We’ve had a couple of very interested people with big plans for this place, but as of this moment it’s still very much available. Going, going…

JUST LISTED…sort of. My Sellers at 306 West Turner Road are only on the market IF they nail down the replacement home on which they’ve made an offer. As I write this week’s rant, we don’t yet have a deal! Hence the caveat.

Let me tell you about 306 West Turner: It’s a tastefully-remodeled two-bedroom with a Family Room that technically can be called a third bedroom (it has a closet and the French doors can be closed and covered to create the third bedroom). Two nicely-upgraded bathrooms! Whole-house fan! A good-sized deck AND a small covered patio! Detached two-car garage! Beautifully redone kitchen with newer appliances and full-splash tile! There’s more to see, but this will whet your appetite. At $319,950, these folks are ready to MOVE (assuming they tie down the home they’re dreaming of). By the time this paper hits your roof, we’ll know whether 306 West Turner Road is truly for sale. Call if you’re curious!

TO ERR IS HUMAN…to be able to laugh at yourself when you mess up is essential to a long and happy life. Have a great week! See you next Sat.

Statesman Realty
(209) 333 2380

1800-407-SOLD (7653)
Website: www.larrysellslodi.com

Website: www.larryunderhill.com
Email: Larry@LarryUnderhill.com