Monday, August 23, 2010

Rocklin - One of America's Best Little Cities for a Reason

Every now and then, a little known location becomes recognized, inviting attention previously bestowed by only a few. The city of Rocklin, California, nestled in the foothills of the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains, in Sacramento's greater metropolitan region, is a prime example. What has made Rocklin so popular and what does Rocklin real estate offer for those interested in residing there?

A snapshot of Rocklin, atop 20 square miles of rolling hills, reveals a family oriented community consisting primarily of nicely kept homes. One of the fasting growing cities in California, its population increased 51% from 2000-2009 alone. Although significantly faster than its surrounds, over the next five years it was predicted to slow to 9% in keeping with the rest of Placer County, in which it is located.

With a current population of 55,000, Rocklin doesn't compare population-wise to major US cities like Los Angeles, or even the capital city, Sacramento, with just under half a million. However, it has the activity level that attracts city dwellers, combined with small town ambiance. The city-like ethnic blend of White, African American, Native American, Asian, and Latino, moreover, encourages variety in restaurants, shopping venues, and cultural events. Additionally, located a half hour north of the capital, Rocklin residents benefit from Sacramento's bigger city advantages and amenities while preserving their little city's marvelous outdoor living and recreational facilities.

Much of Rocklin real estate, in fact, was built upon former ranch land developed one hundred fifty years ago and instrumental in building the area's historical charm. Joel Parker Whitney established his Spring Valley Ranch on 30,000 acres, building crushed stone roads covering 25 miles and granite bridges, with granite mined from Rocklin's own quarries. With housing for 200 ranch hands and families, this "first development" is now graced by two beautiful planned communities, Stanford Ranch and Whitney Oaks. What's more, the ranch's original granite bridges were preserved by the city's recreation commission. Designing community parks around them, they opted to blend history with modern living.

Besides scenic allure, Rocklin has many other assets, recently prompting Family Circle magazine to name it one of the top ten places to raise a family in the nation. Maintaining a great residential and business climate, this little city offers excellent schools, low crime, sound government, tree lined streets, 30 parks, extensive recreational programs and a friendly feeling that residents love. Not to be outdone by bigger cities, it also sports its share of culture, evidenced by museums of history and environmental science, an exotic wildlife refuge facility, and the early 20th century Finn Hall, renovated for event hosting. Another "plus" is Rocklin's transportation system; an Amtrak station allows easy commuting to Sacramento and smooth transit to San Francisco, only 108 miles away. It's a hassle-free arrangement suggesting that a Rocklin real estate acquisition might support a less stressful lifestyle.

When considering Rocklin homes for sale, current inventory displays nearly 250, with even more foreclosures. As Rocklin home values have taken a nosedive along with the rest of the country, there couldn't be a better time to buy. These examples of Rocklin homes for sale show the inherent value:

• A beautiful golf course home, sold in 2004 for nearly $350,000, is available as a short-sale with an asking price of $285,000. Currently valued at $310,000, encompassing 2151 square feet of living space with 4 bedrooms and an office, it was valued around a half million dollars in 2006.

• Reduced $20,000 from the initial listing, a large, totally renovated 2361 square foot home on a quarter acre, lists at $269,000. Last sold in 2001 for $245,000, then extensively remodeled, its estimated value rose to half a million dollars in 2006! Regardless of costly interior and exterior updates, it illustrates motivated sellers offering price incentives to quicken the sale.

• Another traditional sale, further supporting this concept, a 2024 square foot home on over one third acre, with a beautifully remodeled kitchen, sold in 2006 for $445,000. Its estimated value was around $500,000 then; it lists now for $295,000. Again, the remodeling advantages endure minus the headaches and cost.

While most homes presently sale-listed were built between 1980 and 1999, about one third are newer, from 2000 to present. Foreclosures abound here, and a fairly new home in Whitney Oaks, on the old Spring Valley Ranch land, is selling for little more than half a million dollars. With a whopping 3808 square feet of living space, 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, it is close to everything. Best of all, it embodies the essence of Rocklin, combining rustic charm with modern amenities.

Rocklin has truly been a well kept secret, though its reputation is expanding. Following Family Circle's 2010 recognition, Money magazine ranked it 65th among 100 best cities with populations between 50,000 and 300,000. Recognition by outsiders notwithstanding, residents lavish praise on their hometown, as well, raising the question of whether the predicted leveling-off in population growth might need revision. Regardless, it's clear that Rocklin real estate, in one of America's greatest little cities, seems like a solid investment!

Check out the links below for more on Rocklin California:

Buying Real Estate in Rocklin California

Buy to Let - The Outlook's Fine in Rocklin

Tips For Finding Real Estate Treasures in Rocklin CA

How Short Sale Buying is Different from Regular Home Buying

Rocklin Official Site


Sunday, July 25, 2010

What you Need To Know About Rocklin Real Estate to Ensure You Have the Right Strategies For Investment

Buying a home is one way a consumer can insure peace of mind in investing for years to come. Real estate is one investment that will grow with a consumer instead of against them. So how can someone know a good investment when they see one, and what are the keys to finding prime real estate in Rocklin California? The first key is to understand how Rocklin Real Estate works for the consumer.

Rocklin sunset

Rocklin Real Estate


Whether it is time to move from a different location or upgrading from an apartment, there are several real estate agents in Rocklin California. Unfortunately, there are just as many agents that work just for as much money as they can get as there are ones that truly want to help their client. The most important thing to realize in choosing an agent is that the consumer is always in control of who they want to represent them. Do not let a "bully" give the final say in what is the right of the client. Another plus to having several agents to choose from is being able to pick the agent best suited for the job. Remember, the consumer gets to pick who the consumer wants. Fast talking agents are simply trying to talk someone into picking them so the agent, not the client, get what they want. Agents working for the client stick to the guidelines given to then by the client. They do not choose places or properties that will give them the most money if it does not work for their client.

Rocklin California

Rocklin California is a well established community that is not only "kid friendly" but "adult friendly" as well. It has several schools to choose from as well as places for higher education. It is also close to Sacramento, but there is plenty to keep even the hardest to please person satisfied for years to come. With its shopping centers to scenic views, Rocklin California will fast become a favorite place to live. It is also far enough from the city life to feel safe and inviting. If given the chance to live there, Rocklin California will keep calling its people to come home.

Real Estate

What better way to have security then to own real estate? Also, what better way to find a place to live in California then to look at Rocklin real estate? With the economy at odds and stocks looking weak at times, would not it be nice to have an investment that is worth the money and over time the value increases? Rocklin real estate is the answer to anyone needing to move to the area. Rocklin homes for sale can compete with any other house in California. By buying a house today, a consumer is investing in the future and can rest assured the investment was a wise and smart buy.

Rocklin Homes for Sale

Whether a client is just starting to invest in a new home or wants to expand into something larger, there is something for everyone when it comes to Rocklin homes for sale. Rocklin real estate has some of the most eloquent homes a client can want. With anything from high ceilings, to a long wide porch, agents can help clients feel right at home from the moment they walk in to what will become their new home. They also have some of the best scenic views. Plus, with the added bonus of a large city close by, any homeowner can feel in touch with the city and nightlife that is close at hand. It is not just a house. It is a Rocklin home. So start the search today whether by typing in Rocklin homes for sale on a favorite search engine or calling an agent to find houses for any need or budget. Rocklin homes for sale will take anyone's breathe away from the moment they walk in to a house. Why not make this move today?

In a world where tomorrow is sometimes a scary thought, investing in a house can make the future look brighter. It is time to have security with peace of mind. It is time to look into buying a home in Rocklin. Finding an agent who can help is as easy as typing into a favorite search engine for help. It may also help to type in "Rocklin homes for sale" to know what is out there before talking to an agent. By being prepared and knowing the consumer has the upper hand, agents will have to compete to be the best. Go to an agent with the knowledge of a budget, the type of house, the area desired, and any other need so they can find the right home. Buying a home can be scary and a joy, but buying a home is the only investment today that is worth the trouble to afford.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Auburn, CA Wild Life Guide

Situated in the area where the Sacramento Valley meets the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Auburn, CA, California is a nature lover’s paradise. The western slopes of the Sierra Nevada Range lie just to the east of the city. The crest of the mountains is a mere 45 miles to the east. In the westward direction, the Central Valley area boasts gently rolling hills covered with natural grasslands and picturesque farms. Due to the rapid growth in the Sacramento area, Auburn, CA and Placer County are seeing an expansion in their real estate markets.

Immediately to the east of Auburn, CA, the rugged valleys of the Sierra Nevada Range host an area with the one of the highest biodiversity rates in the United States. An abundance of interesting plant and animal species are found in the canyons and peaks of the mountains. Of interest to scientists and nature lovers alike, there are endless locations for observing and photographing wildlife. California leads the nation in biodiversity due to its many ecological regions each with varied climates, geology, topography and soils. Auburn, CA, with its location in two distinct ecological regions, is home to species from the Central Valley region and Sierra Nevada Mountains. A wonderful area for living close to natural beauty, a visit to an Auburn, CA real estate company will provide more information on housing availability.

auburn ca wild life
Covered with richly diverse temperate coniferous forests, the Sierra Nevada Mountains are host to some rare and threatened species. Perhaps the best known is the California Spotted Owl, This species lost population due to logging of old growth forests that the owl depends on for habitat. The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest of North American woodpeckers. It relies on old growth forests where large nesting holes are carved out in dead wood. It is one of the keystone species of the area, as the nesting cavities then become habitat for other birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Catching sight of one of these magnificent red crested birds is a real experience. One of the most unique of the mammals found in the Sierra Nevada forests is the Northern Flying Squirrel. Large flaps of skin between the front and rear legs allow the squirrel to glide from tree to tree. Recently placed in the rank of keystone species, this squirrel benefits the forest by burying truffles, a fungus species, that it uses for food. The truffles are important to the health of the forest’s trees as the underground network of fungus helps provide nutrients to the trees. The squirrels assist the spread of the fungus as they bury them.

Large species of mammals are also found in the foothills around Auburn, CA. The Whitetail and Mule deer are two of the most commonly seen mammals. The Whitetail deer tend to go to higher elevations in the warmer months then migrate to the valleys in the winter. Mule deer are quite similar to Whitetails but are a purely Western species. The tail is narrower and black tipped. Mountain Lions and Black Bear also inhabit the foothills of the mountains but are rarely seen.

Hidden Falls Regional Park, just five mile west of Auburn, CA, is a recently opened park with over seven miles of hiking trails, blue oak forests, several creeks and a year round waterfall. A wonderful spot for photography, picnicking or just relaxing in the outdoors, the park offers the visitor abundant opportunities for observing wildlife. The park encompasses over 200 acres. An additional 900 acres located adjacent to the park will be developed in the future. The purpose of the park is to both provide opportunities for recreation and create habitat for wildlife. The park has paved parking lots, restrooms and an area for horseback riders to park their trailers.


Mule Deer
Placer Nature Center located in Auburn, CA welcomes families and everyone interested in learning how to live a more ecologically sustainable life and learn about the wildlife of the area. They offer many events for children and adults to assist in the understanding and appreciation of nature and wildlife. These are just several of the recreation areas Auburn, CA real estate companies can provide information on.

Auburn, CA is located at the spot where the North Fork and Middle Fork of the American River meet. To the southwest of Auburn, CA are the headwaters of Auburn, CA Ravine, where a local volunteer group, Save Auburn Ravine Salmon and Steelhead, are actively working on stream restoration that will enhance the habitat for Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. Both fish migrate as juveniles from fresh water streams to the sea. They return to the fresh water streams to spawn. Dams and other impediments to their migrations have blocked their journey upstream from the ocean. Efforts are underway to remove obstructions and allow the migrating fish to return to the freshwaters to reproduce. The Auburn, CA Ravine flows into the Sacramento Valley habitat and is an excellent location for hiking and river sports.

An extension of existing trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding is currently being studied for the Auburn, CA area. The North Fork American River Trail will provide over twelve additional miles of trail starting at the confluence of the North and Middle Forks of the American River in Auburn, CA.

Auburn, CA is experiencing rapid growth. This is a great time to visit an Auburn CA real estate agent to learn how Auburn, CA could become home.

Auburn California Adventure Guide

Conveniently located just minutes from Sacramento on Interstate 80 is the Placer County seat, Auburn, CA. With a population slightly higher than 13,000, Auburn, CA residents enjoy a peaceful quiet without the feel of isolation. Auburn, CA real estate prices remain affordable, offering very attractive options for those seeking relocation. Many people who wish to work in Sacramento but avoid paying higher big-city real estate prices often invest in Auburn, CA real estate instead and commute. Aside from the benefits of affordable Auburn, CA real estate prices, there are plenty of beautiful places in the area to visit. Each year Auburn, CA's many local attractions greet thousands of traveling visitors and some seek Auburn as their sole destination.

Auburn, CA real estate

Perhaps one of the most intriguing adventure destinations in Auburn, CA is the Hidden Falls Regional Park. Dabbled with blue oak trees, the park makes an ideal spot for picnics or hiking. The land is covered in lush grass and greenery with two streams running through the property. Nearby is a beautiful waterfall standing nearly 30 feet high. There are numerous picnic areas in the park, a paved road and large parking lot. Visitors may park for the day and set out on foot to enjoy the fresh air and wide-open space.

Located in Auburn, CA's Old Town district is The Auburn Ale House. The exterior of the building reflects an old-fashioned charm, but indoors a warm and low-lit ambient atmosphere awaits. Auburn, CA Ale House brews their own beverages on site, giving customers a fresh taste of their unique beer. Outdoors sits an open-air patio for those who wish to enjoy the fresh air. The Auburn, CA Ale House also includes many delicious food selections on their menu. Food selections are prepared fresh and presented in an attractive manner. When served by friendly staff, the entire experience makes for a delightful outing.

Nearby in the Old Town area sits a piece of historic Auburn, CA real estate: Robie House, a day spa and salon. Offering massages, tanning, waxing and numerous other salon services, visitors will feel pampered every minute in this establishment. The friendly staff also boast impressive credentials and specialize in spa treatments. Featuring everything from mud to linen wraps, visitors will leave feeling refreshed - and wanting to return soon.

Outside the city limits of Auburn, CA sits the tallest bridge in California, the Auburn, CA-Foresthill Bridge. The magnificent structure towers 730 feet above the American River and was built as a connection between the towns of Auburn, CA and Foresthill. Hikers are allowed to walk across the bridge, making this spot a popular getaway for the day. From the top of the bridge, phenomenal views of the river below and the surrounding foothills make an enthralling combination for those who enjoy breathtaking scenery.

There is no need to make a long trip to the Hoover Dam; Lake Clementine's dam boasts an impressive crest elevation totaling 718 feet. The dam's length spans over 3 miles. Surrounded by the beauty of the pine-clad foothills, this lake's grounds also offer camping sites and boat docks, making it a popular spot to escape to for relaxation.

California is famous for its vineyards; Auburn, CA is also home to an exquisite vineyard owned and operated by the Perry family. Fawnridge Winery mixes sophistication with a friendly and family-style atmosphere. The Perrys allow vehicle parking and horse "parking" as well. Guests are not only greeted by the delightful owners, but also their two friendly and playful dogs, Sugar and Spice. The tasting room offers a selection of tantalizing wines; visitors will likely be unable to leave without purchasing at least one bottle of these superb wines.

Auburn, CA was once a hot spot in the gold rush days. Placer County has designated a local historic building as The Gold Country Museum, offering visitors an understanding of what life was like in those exciting gold fever days gone by. Because many of the original mines are boarded up or unsafe to enter, the museum has created a realistic mine designed to give visitors an idea of what mines really looked like then. Exhibits portraying a mining camp and saloon are also on site. For less than $5.00, guests may enjoy the experience of panning for gold.

These are just a few of the many charming attractions Auburn, CA has to offer. Auburn, CA also features many great shopping, dining and hotel accommodations. After discovering so many options for recreation and fun, Auburn, CA becomes an increasingly attractive place to live for most people. Plenty of historic Auburn, CA real estate is available from time to time for those who would like to own a piece of history here. There is plenty making news in in theAuburn CA homes for sale game. Overall Auburn, CA is a great place to live in consideration of location, accessibility and privacy; Auburn, CA is a perfect balance of all three.