Sunday, January 6, 2013

Westside L.A. Real Estate - Favorite Restaurants- Free Recipes

Westside Homes American Restaurant History
and Free Restaurant Copycat Recipes
Westside Los Angeles, CA homeowners have their favorite American restaurants. These restaurants maybe just a few miles from your home. Check out the history of these restaurants: KFC, Cheesecake Factory, Applebee's, Red Lobster, Outback Steakhouse and Ben and Jerrys. Cook like a gourmet chef enjoy restaurant copycat recipes from the comfort of your home. FREE Restaurant Copycat Recipes: KFC Fried Chicken Recipe, KFC Buttermilk Biscuit Recipe, Cheesecake Bang-Bang Chicken Shrimp Recipe, Cheesecake Pumpkin Recipe, Applebees Baby Back Recipe, Applebees Blondie Brownies Recipe, Red Lobster Dungess Crab Bisque Recipe, Outback Lamb Cabernet Sauce Recipe, Outback Chopped Salad Recipe, Outback Marinade Sauce Recipe, Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia Ice Cream Recipe.  FREE copycat recipes provided by: America's Restaurant Recipes. Bonus: Marinades, Sauce and Rub Benefits. We all enjoy eating out cook these copycat recipes in your own kitchen. Your Westside neighbors will thing you ordered-in.  ENJOY!!

The History of Kentucky Fried Chicken



Colonel Harland Sanders founder Kentucky Fried Chicken. KFC is one of the largest restaurant businesses in the world. It is in more than eighty countries globally. In his forties Colonel Sander began cooking for travelers in his gas station. The gas station was located in Corbin, Kentucky. Instead of coming to his gas station for gas they started coming for Colonel Sanders cooked meals. Harland Sanders expanded his business across the street opening a restaurant that seated one-hundred and forty-two people. The colonel pressure cooked his chicken. When fresh chicken is pressed cooked it cooks faster. Sanders invented his secret eleven herbs and spices recipe to coat his chickens. His eleven herbs and spices are still used today in Kentucky Fried Chicken’s recipes.

Because of his special cooking techniques Governor, Ruby Laffoon in 1935 made Harland Sanders a Kentucky Colonel. After 1952, Colonel goal was to make his company a franchise. He traveled miles by car to enfranchise his business. By 1964 Colonel Sanders had over 600 franchised outlets in the United States and Canada. In 1964, Colonel Sanders sold his interest in the United States companies for only $2 million. Colonel Sanders remained a spokesman for KFC® until 1976. In 1980 Colonel Harland Sanders died at the age of ninety.

Kentucky Fried Chicken - Secret Recipes
Secret Recipes

KFC Fried Chicken
Copycat Recipes

 Ingredients

-2 fryer chicken, cut up into 8 pieces and marinated
-6 cups Crisco shortening
-1 egg, well beaten
-2 cups milk
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons ground pepper
-3 tablespoons salt
- 1 teaspoon msg
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 dash paprika

Directions:
-Place shortening into the pressure cooker and heat over medium heat to the shortening reaches 400°F.
- In a small bowl, combine the egg and milk.
- In a separate bowl, combine the remaining six dry ingredients.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the milk until fully moistened.
- Roll the moistened chicken in the flour mixture until well coated.
- In groups of four or five, drop the covered chicken pieces into the shortening and lock the lid.
- When pressure builds up cook for 10 minutes.
Makes: Approximately 4 to 6 servings
Provided by: Secret Recipes


KFC Buttermilk Biscuits - Secret Recipes

KFC Secret Recipes
KFC Copycat Recipe
Ingredients:
-1/2 cup butter
-1/4 cup club soda
-1 beaten egg
-3/4 cup butter milk
-1 teaspoon salt
-5 cups Bisquick Biscuit Mix

Cooking Directions:
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Combine all of the ingredients, knead the dough by hand until the dough holds together do not over knead. Flour your hands Pat the dough flat to 3/4-inch thickness out biscuits with a biscuit cutter. Bake on a greased baking sheet for 13 minutes, or until golden brown, when they come out of the oven brush with melted butter. Makes 18 Biscuits.
Provided: America's Restaurant Recipes


The History of The Cheesecake Factory



The Cheesecake Factory was founded by Oscar and Evelyn Overton. In the late 1940's Evelyn Overton opened a cheesecake shop in Detroit, Michigan. To be an at home mother she closed her shop and continued to bake in her home kitchen. She supplied her cakes to several local restaurants. In the 1970's her children were grown. Oscar and Evelyn decided to move their cheesecake business to Los Angeles, California. They opened a 700 square foot store in Los Angeles and called it, "The Cheesecake Factory®". As in any business the early years were difficult. Evelyn was the manager and baker. Oscar was the salesman and promoter.

In Los Angeles the Overton's baking reputation and sales grew to such an extent they purchased a larger bakery. With a striving business Evelyn created over 20 cheesecake varieties and other desserts. These items were sold to hundreds of wholesale accounts. Their business extended from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, San Diego and several out-of-state clientele. The first Cheesecake Factory Restaurant® as opened in Beverly Hills, California. The founder of the first restaurant was their son, David Overton. David Overton established a restaurant that offered fresh quality ingredients with creative and numerous menu selections. There are approximately 150 Cheesecake Factory Restaurants today. The success that the Cheesecake Factory® enjoys today took many years and reflects generational progression based on a dream. The Cheesecake Factory Restaurant is an American Dream come true.

The Cheesecake Factory Pumpkin Cheesecake-Secret Recipe
Cheesecake Factory
Copycat Recipe
Pumpkin is a standard food for the Holidays. Sweeten Up Your Holidays with this delicious Cheesecake Dessert - Secret Recipe Cheesecake Factory Pumpkin Cheesecake copycat recipe is a delicious year round dessert.

Cheesecake Factory Secret Recipes

Ingredients:

-1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
-5 tbsp butter, melted
-1 cup plus 1 tbsp sugar
-3 x 8-oz packages cream cheese, softened
-1 tspn vanilla
-1 cup canned pumpkin
-3 eggs
-½ tspn cinnamon
-¼ tspn nutmeg
-¼ tspn allspice
-whipped cream, for serving (amount to taste)

Preparation:
-Preheat the oven to 350°F.
-Make the crust by combining the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and 1 tbsp sugar in a medium bowl. Stir well enough to coat all of the crumbs with the butter, but not so much as to turn the mixture into paste. Keep it crumbly.
-Press the crumbs onto the bottom and about two-thirds of the way up the sides of the spring form pan. You don't want the crust to form all of the way up the back of each slice of cheesecake. Bake the crust for 5 minutes, then set it aside until you are ready to fill tbsp
-In a large mixing bowl combine the cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla. Mix with an electric mixer until smooth.
-Add the pumpkin, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice and continue to beat until smooth and creamy.
-Pour the filling into the pan. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The top will turn a bit darker at this point. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool.
-When the cheesecake has come to room temperature, put it into the refrigerator. When the cheesecake has chilled, remove the pan sides and cut the cake into 8 equal pieces.
-Serve with a generous portion of whipped cream on top.
Serves 8.



The Cheesecake Factory Bang-Bang Chicken and Shrimp Copycat Recipes
Cheesecake Factory Copycat Recipes - Secret Recipe
Description: A spicy Thai dish flavored with curry, peanut, chili
and coconut, sauteed with vegetables and served on a bed of rice.




Ingredients
-2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
-1 pound chicken breast tenders
-1 tablespoon chicken broth
-1 medium onion, chopped
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-3/4 teaspoon dried cilantro
-1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
-1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
-1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
-pinch of ground turmeric
-1 cup coconut milk
-2 tablespoons macadamia nuts, finely ground
-1 teaspoon sugar
-1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
-2 cups fully cooked shrimp
-1 tablespoon tamarind paste
-2 teaspoons water
-Chopped scallion for garnish

Cooked rice
1.Using a large skillet, heat oil and cook chicken - about 5 minutes
per side or until browned and no longer pink in the center. Remove
to platter and set aside.
2. Using same pan, heat broth; add onion, garlic, cilantro, ginger,
lemon peel, cumin and turmeric and cook for 5 minutes or until the
onion is tender but not browned; stir in coconut milk, nuts, sugar,red pepper and shrimp.
3. Return the chicken to skillet, cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until the chicken is heated through; remove to platter and keep warm.
4. Using same pan (do not discard sauce) add tamarind paste and
water previously mixed in small bowl. Bring to a gentle boil until thickened and mixture measure about 1 cup.
5. Cook and divide rice; evenly divide the chicken and shrimp among 4 plates. Top with sauce and garnish with scallion.

-Tip: Tamarind paste is available in Indian and specialty stores.
Serves 4
Source: America's Secret Recipes by Ron Douglas
Provided by: America's Restaurant Recipes


The History of Applebee’s Restaurant


Applebee’s restaurant was founded by Bill and T.J. Palmer. In 1980 their first restaurant opened in Atlanta, Georgia. Originally named, T.J. Applebee’s Rx for Edibles & Elixirs. The name was changed to Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar in 1986. Currently there are approximately 1,965 restaurants in the USA and Europe. Informal dining restaurants for all ages. The restaurant chain features American dishes: salads, shrimp, pasta chicken and rib lets. The rib lets are Applebee’s® signature item.


Applebees Baby Back Ribs - Secret Recipes 
 Applebee's Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
-3 racks of about 1 pound each pork baby back ribs,
each cut in half

Barbecue Sauce

-1 cup ketchup
-3 T dark brown sugar
-1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
-3 T Worcestershire sauce
-1/2 Tsp salt
-1 Tsp liquid smoke

Get a large enough pot to cover ribs. Fill pot with water and place the ribs in the water. Make sure the water completely covers the ribs. Bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat. Cover. Simmer for one hour or until the ribs are tender when you poke them with a fork.

Mix all of the sauce ingredients together in a medium sauce pan and bring them to a boil. Reduce the heat. Simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered, stirring often or until you see the sauce start to thicken.

Turn-up broiler. You may want to put some foil on your broiler pan so the sauce doesn't stick to it. Put your ribs with the meat side down onto the broiler pan. Brush using one half of the sauce. Broil for 6-7 minutes. Keep the ribs at least 4-5 inches from the broiler flame.

After 6-7 minutes, turn the ribs over. Brush on the remaining sauce. Broil another 6-7 minutes or until the edges are slightly charred. Get out your favorite serving platter. Remove ribs from broiler oven and enjoy!



Secret Recipes


Applebee`s Blondie Brownies
Applebee's Copycat Recipes





Ingredients
-1 cup sifted flour
-1/2 teaspoon baking powder
-1/8 teaspoon baking soda
-1/8 teaspoon salt
-1/2 cup chopped walnuts
-1/3 cup butter or margarine
-1 cup packed brown sugar
-1 egg - beaten
-1 tablespoon vanilla extract
-1/2 cup white chocolate chips
-3/8 cup maple syrup
-1/4 cup butter
- 3/8 cup brown sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese - softened
- 1/2 teaspoon maple extract or flavoring

Directions:

-Sift together sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
-Add chopped nuts.
- Mix well and set aside.
- Melt butter.
- Add brown sugar and mix well.
-Add egg and vanilla and blend well.
-Add flour mixture, a little at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in white chocolate chips.
-Spread into a 9" square pan.
- Bake at 350F., 20-25 minutes, or until tester inserted in center comes out clean or with
slightly fudge looking crumbs.
-Combine syrup and butter, cook over low heat until butter is melted.
- Stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and beat in cream cheese and maple extract until smooth.
- Heat again either over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals to reach
desired sauce consistency.
-Serve sauce over warm blondies topped with vanilla ice cream.

Makes: 10 servings
Source: The Secret Recipe Forum

Red Lobster Restaurant's History


The founder of the Red Lobster Restaurant is Bill Darden. At 19 he opened his first restaurant, The Green Frog. The first Red Lobster opened in Lakeland, Florida , in 1968. A casual seafood restaurant centered on quality and service. In the 1970s the restaurant expanded to different parts of the United States. In 1995, the Red Lobster, Olive Garden and Bahama Breeze became part of Darden Restaurants.


Red Lobster Copycat Recipe
Red Lobster Dungeness Crab Bisque - Secret Recipes
Ingredients

-1 tablespoon minced onion
-2 tablespoons butter or margarine
-2 tablespoons flour
-2 cups chicken broth
-2 cups half-and-half
-1 pound Alaska dungeness crab meat
-Salt, to taste
-Chopped parsley

Instructions
1. Saute onion in butter until soft. Add flour; cook while stirring for 1 minute.
2. Slowly stir in chicken broth and half-and-half; cook 5 minutes while stirring.
3. Break crab into chunks; add to broth.
4. Heat thoroughly and add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley.

The History of Outback Steakhouse


Outback Steakhouse is an American restaurant chain founded by Bob Basham, Chris T. Sullivan, Trudy Cooper and Tim Gannon. Outback Steakhouse was founded in 1988 with corporate headquarters in Tampa, Florida. The restaurants have an Australian outback theme. Enjoy and throw a steak on the barbie tonight!


Outback SteakHouse Copycat Rack of Lamb with Cabernet Sauce
Copycat Recipe


Ingredients

-1- 1/3 C. Cabernet wine
-1/4 C. butter
-2 -1/2 T. flour
-1/4 C. fresh parsley
-6 C. au jus (The drippings from roasting beef or lamb)
-2 T. lamb seasoning
-1 T. garlic powder


Preparation:
-In a bowl mix 1/3 cup of wine with flour, set aside.
-Put remaining wine, broth, parsley, lamb seasoning and garlic powder in saucepan .
-Bring to a GENTLE boil, then turn heat down and reduce about 4-5 minutes.
-Stir in flour mixture. While you are reducing liquid, brown butter in
another pan (DON'T JUST MELT BUTTER BROWN IT, DO NOT BURN ).
-WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED REDUCING, ADD BUTTER AND MIX WELL. By this time your sauce should have a semi-thick look to it.
-When you are finished cooking this, you should have 7 cups.
Provided by: America's Secret Recipes

Outback Steakhouse Chopped Salad - Secret Recipes
Delicious Secret Recipes from Outback Steakhouse - Nutritious Copycat Recipe.


Outback Steakhouse Copycat Recipe

Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup pecans (cinnamon and candied)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tbspn brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon melted butter

Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
-1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
- sea salt and grounded black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbled
Mix dressing ingredients

Salad Ingredients:
- 3 cups chopped bibb or butter lettuce ( may want to mix bibb and butter)
- 3 cups chopped red lettuce
- 3 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
- 1 chopped green onion
- Optional top salad with sliced red onions or chopped apples)

Preparing Pecans:
- Pecan halves sliced into 3 lengthwise sections
- Mix cinnamon and brown sugar in melted butter
- Add pecans in cinnamon and brown sugar mixture
- Make sure each pecan is thoroughly coated
- Using parchment lined baking sheet place pecans
- Bake for 5-8 minutes or until pecans caramelized
- Remove from oven and remove parchment with pecans.
- Let pecans cool
Provided: America's Secret Recipes

 
Outback Steakhouse Marinade Secret Recipe
Outback Steakhouse Copycat Recipe
Ingredients

-1 cup Scottish ale
-2 teaspoons brown sugar
-1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
-1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
-1/4 teaspoon Accent Flavor Enhancer

Place your favorite cut of steak in a shallow pan and pour ale on
steak and marinate for 1 hour in refrigerator. Remove steak from
ale and mix dry ingredients together and rub steak on both sides.

Let marinate with dry ingredients for 1/2 hour.

Preheat a skillet or grill to med high heat add vegetable spray or
vegetable oil and braise to perfection.
Source: The America's Secret Recipe Forum
Posted by: Nebulized



Marinades, Sauces and Rubs - Secret Recipes
Marinades
Marinades help prevent chicken from drying out during cooking and adds flavor. Marinade chicken in the refrigerator. Boneless and skinless chicken pieces marinade quickly from 15 to 120 minutes. Marinading is ancient art of tenderizing meat and improving flavor. Acids like vinegar or lemon juice are used in marinade tenderizers. Marinades for flavor vary from spicy, sour, sweet & sour, smoky and sour. Ingredients vary from herbs, spices, vegetables, wine, soy sauce and a wide range of other ingredients.

When a marinade is designed as a tenderizer, it includes an acid like vinegar or lemon juice. The acid attacks the and softens fibrous connective tissue between the muscles, making the muscle less stringy. Acid penetration also flavors the meat. The longer meat is marinaded the more tender and flavored it become.

Flavorings in marinades vary widely. Flavoring can be spicy, bitter, sweet and sour, smokey, sweet or sour. Herbs and a wide array of ingredients can be used like, vegetables like garlic,fruit juices, soy sauce, yogurt, wine, sugar and a wide variety of ingredients. Basic marinades include: vinegar, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper,

Sauces and Basting:
Dipping sauces and basting are alternatives for adding flavor to chicken. Additionally, they preserve moisture and give your chicken an attractive appearance. Gravy, pan dripping (barbecue sauce), broth, melted butter, butter garlic sauce and etc are commonly used. Sauces can be garnished with fresh herbs.

Rubs:
There are dry rubs and paste rubs. Rubs are a blend of seasoning. The blend can vary but generally the blends are coarse pepper (white/black), paprika, garlic powder and variety of herbs. Rubs add flavor, retains moisture (seals juices) and sometimes forms a crust. Paste rubs are held together by moisture (water, oil, soy sauce, Worcester sauce or horseradish) and generally will add a crust to the chicken.

History of Ben and Jerry's




The founders of Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream are Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield. Ben & Jerry's Homemade, Inc. are manufacturers of ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet. The company is known for its creative flavor combinations. Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield met as teenagers in middle school in New York. They both attended Penn State. They opened their first store in 1978.Their first store was a converted garage. Their one year anniversary was marketed, Free Cone Day. Anyone that came to their store that day got free scoops of ice cream. That tradition continues even today. In 1980 Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream was marketed to grocery stores. In 1981, they became an ice cream making chain. Top selling flavors are Cherry Garcia, Chunky Monkey, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Cherry Garcia frozen yogurt, Peanut Butter Cup and New York Fudge Chunk. In 2000 the company was acquire by Unilever.

Ben and Jerry's Copycat Cherry Garcia Ice Cream
Ice Cream Secret Recipes

Ben and Jerry Copycat Recipe

Ben and Jerry's - Secret Recipes

Ingredients
-¼ cup shaved semisweet chocolate bars
-¼ cup fresh Bing cherries, halved and pitted (you may use canned cherries, but be sure to drain the syrup)
-2 large eggs
-¾ cup granulated sugar
-2 cups heavy or whipping cream
-1 cup milk

-Place the shaved chocolate flakes and the cherries in separate bowls. Cover and refrigerate.
-Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, 1 to 2 minutes.
-Whisk in the sugar, a little at a time, then continue whisking until completely blended, about 1 minute more. Pour in the cream and milk and whisk to blend.
-Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze following the manufacturer's instructions.
-After the ice cream stiffens (about 2 minutes before it is done), add the chocolate and the cherries, then continue freezing until the ice cream is ready.
Provided by: America's Restaurant Recipes

Homeowners history of your favorite American restaurants and Free Restaurant Copycat Recipes. For All your Real Estate Needs Call:
 
Gail MercedesCole
(310) 853-9933 Direct Line
Realtor
Westside Homes-Residential Specialist
   
Houses - Duplex - Condominiums

     gail.mercedes@exprealty.com


All information based on public records, MLS records and other information deemed to be reliable but not guaranteed. Agent does not endorse an ideas or products. This is not intended as a solicitation of prospective buyers or sellers who already have an exclusive agency agreement with another agent. License # 00788828.

Friday, January 4, 2013

Westside Real Estate- Keepsake Chests


Keepsake Chest - Hope Chest


Westside real estate is not just about houses. What makes a home? The people in the home and things we cherish in our homes. The keepsake chest or hope chest has been a holder of dreams and memories in families for centuries. Currently, keepsake or hope chests are not only used to store memories but for home decor. The keepsake chest has always been a symbol of status. Ancient Egyptians kept their personal treasures in heirloom chests. During the Renaissance wealthy families believed in arranged marriages within the family. Inter familial marriages strengthen and secured power influence within the family. Wedding gifts were presented in elaborate trunks. Often times, the trunks were more highly valued than the gifts contained.
These chests were made of a sturdy wood like oak, cherry wood or cedar wood. Cedar was a common wood used for chests. Cedar is sturdy and moth resistant. These chests were intricately carved, gilded or painted. Chests were fitted with secure artistic locks. Valuable items are safe in the cedar lined chests. Immigrant families migrating to America travels by sea with possessions in chests. In later decades American teenage girl were given trunks by their mothers or close female relative. It represented a coming of age for young ladies. Trousseau: clothing, personal items and household items were stored in “hope chest” or “glory chest”. Until the 1950s the expected path for women was marriage. The hope chest was a ritual of the hope and joy. The hope chest and trousseau represented paths of marriage and a family’s life journey. When a young woman married the hope chest was emptied and replaced with memorable family life. Mothers would pass this hope chest to their daughters and the journey of the hope chest was reborn. Chests and memory keepsake boxes in my view, represents hope, joy and heritage.


The Lane Company, VA was a notable maker of cedar wood chest during WWII. Shirley Temple was a model for the company. Advertisement was aimed at GI’s loved ones left in domestic life. Lane Company promoted miniature 12” long chest chests as advertising gifts for high school girls. These two forms for advertisement Americanized the chest and keepsake box.

Contemporary times are different from the mid 1950s. Women today are liberated and dowries or trousseau's are no longer common traditions. Since Ancient Egypt people still treasure keepsakes. Precious keepsakes are still stored in chests and memory keepsake boxes. Additionally, these decorative chests, trunks or boxes add personal decor to any room. Contemporary interior design is currently a mix of new and old. Keepsake chest not only keeps the families keepsakes and treasures but adds flair to most rooms.
Provided: Gail Mercedes Cole EXP Realty
(310) 853-9933

Monday, December 31, 2012

DIY Home Staging - Westside Real Estate

Do It Yourself Home Staging
Westside Homes Staging
Westside Home Staging
Westside homeowners you have decided to sale your home, condominium or income property. Reap the highest value for your property prepare by staging. What exactly is staging? It is a common term related to the movie industry. There is staging for scenes in movies and plays. When a movie or play is beautifully staged it adds to the artistry and themes. Staging has the same effect with homes. The buyer’s first impression is the most important impression. This articles for do it yourself staging. Not trying to break the bank preparing your home for sale but reap the highest sales price on a budget.  Single family homeowners have more control staging than income property owners. Homeowners can control how the exterior and interior of property will show to prospective buyers. Income property owners most time can only control the exterior appearance.  Examples of a poorly stated homes and then a well staged homes.

Poorly Staged Home:

Exterior Unkempt
  • Exterior unkempt exterior;
  • Poor lawn maintenance (something as simple as watering yard and trimming plant hedges).
  • Trash and clutter in front and backyard
  • Exterior painting (may need painting or solution may be as simple as trim touch –up).
  • Cluttered drive-way (example: trash, furnisher and toys).
  • Broken windows
  • Damaged window screens
  • Exterior needs paint
  • Exterior trimming needs paint
 

 Interior unkempt;

  • Carpets need replacement or cleaning
  • Dirty floors (examples: kitchen, bathrooms and hardwood floors)
  • Cluttered unkempt bathrooms.
  • Cluttered unkempt kitchen
  • Bathrooms and kitchen fixtures may need replacement or just a good shine-up.
  • Cluttered unkempt bedrooms
  • Cluttered unkempt living room
  • Cluttered unkempt family room, den and or study.
  • Cluttered closets
  • Windows need cleaning.
  • Room walls need painting or good cleaning.

 Looking at the above exterior and interior items the main theme is clean-up. Occupying a home we may not always enforce a daily or weekly cleaning routine. Some little items that need repair or replacement maybe over looked. What the heck after a time it is convenient to overlook these items. Your home is cozy and comfortable for your daily lives. Selling your home puts you in the businessman category. You are looking to make a reasonable profit. Enhance your home profitability stage. I am not going the expensive route with updates but working with what you have. Your home may or may not be updated.  Handy staging tips:

 Do It Yourself Staging
Exterior Staging:

  • Keep lawn and landscaping maintained.
  • May want to add more blooming flowers in bedding, pots and or add hanging plants.
  • Keep front and backyard clutter free.
  • Check exterior paint and trim for painting or touch-ups
  • Keep drive-way clutter free and clean.
  • Keep clean windows 
  • Replace broken window panels.
  • Replace damage window screens.

 

Interior Staging:
 
Carpeted rooms most times the carpet will not have to be replaced but cleaned. Give your carpets a through cleaning through-out the home. Vacuum your carpet regularly. Hardwood floor should be in good condition. Repair loose or damaged floor boards.  Clean and shine up hardwood floors. Keep each room cleaned including dusted. Keep room free of clutter. Check walls in each room. clean or paint walls if needed. Sometimes, it is easier to paint certain rooms. Choose neutral light colors. Examples: you may prefer a dark red color for the den. Conversely, dark colors darken room and reduce visual space whereas off-whites or light beige's lighten rooms and have a positive mental affect.

Things we take for granted and may overlook are: replacement of burned out light bulbs and clean all light fixtures, mirrors and ceiling fans. There may be leaks a minor as faucet leaks or roof leaks. Investigate causes and repair. Window treatment drapes, curtain and shutter. Keep window treatment clean.   

 
Porch Entry:

  • Replace Welcome Mat if needed.
  • Remove any cobwebs and grooms doorway. No clutter at entry.
Living Room Staging:



Remember buyers generally purchase for more space. Give your rooms a spacious look. May have to rearrange or remove some furniture.

  • Keep tables, shelves, furniture and floor uncluttered.
Dining Room:

  • Clean and clutter free.
Add a tasteful vase with fresh flowers on dining room table.

 
Kitchen Staging:

 


Check flooring worn vinyl should be replaced. Check for broken or loose tiles. Broken tiles and loose tiles can be repaired or replaced.

  • Keep flooring clean.
  • Kitchen appliances clean and keep clear of cooking items during showings.
  • Appliances should be in working order.
  • Clean kitchen counters, cabinets and shelves. In the case of kitchen counters less is more. Have a few attractive kitchen items on counter (toaster, microwave, blender and etc.)
  • Check cabinet hardware for need replacements.
  • One inexpensive update is kitchen sink fixtures. May consider replacing kitchen sink hardware.

 Bedroom Staging:
 
 

  • Keep bedrooms clean and clutter free.
  • May have beautiful bedding or consider new fresh bedding in neutral colors.
  • Consider adding pillows and or bed shawl.
  • On night table add a vase of fresh flowers, potpourri and or candles.

Bathroom Staging:


 
  • Keep clean and uncluttered.
  • Consider new towels and bathroom rugs in each bathroom. Use only for showing property.
  • Decorative soap dishes, toothpaste holders, toilet paper holders and waste bin can add to decor.
  • Check bathroom plumbing hardware. Hardware replacement gives bathrooms uplift.
Closets:

  • Keep clean, organized and uncluttered.
Showing Your Home:

  • It is depressing to walk into a dark home. Keep your lights on and open curtains.
  • If possible keep entire family out during a showing. This gives prospective buyers the opportunity to walk around freely.
  • Put pets outside.
  • Turn off television.
  • Play soft music or no music at all.
  • Keep all valuables in a safe place. Items include money, credit cards, keys, personal papers and etc.
  • Keep all medicines out of site in a safe place.
  • Valuables should not be seen by prospective buyers.Keep in safe place. 
  • Children toys should be organized and kept in one area.
  • New fresh towels can be shown only for showings.
  • Potpourri, scented candles, boiled cinnamon or nutmeg gives the home a scented homey feeling.
  • There is something about freshly cut flowers. Consider flowers in living room, dining room, den and or bedrooms.  

Many buyers say that they made the decision to purchase before they saw the interior of the property. Maintenance of the yard is very important. First impressions are lasting impressions. A home that is enticing and alluring may result in a higher sales price. Sellers can stage their home tasteful and inexpensively. If your home is totally renovated or in its original condition one main key to staging is clean and uncluttered. Carpets and flooring should be clean. Check each room some rooms may need fresh paint.  Choose neutral color themes suitable for the entire home. New fresh complimentary bedding (solid and light color) can add attraction and space. Pillows and furnisher shawl also add flair.  Towels can do wonders. Do not hesitate, replacing old soap dishes, tootle brush holders, towel rails, toilet holders and trash cans with attractive items. I just recently, gave my kitchen a total clean up. The major job was the oven. I just throw stuff in the oven bake and forget about clean up. Well, it was a major clean up but it is great to have clean oven. Clean kitchen and kitchen appliances will be a selling point. Plan your staging and compare items needed at different retail stores. Keep in mind that you want your home to be appealing not just for an individual but for the general buying market.

Free advice keep window treatments open let the light in. Never show home in the dark.

Each west side neighborhood has its own personality. Regardless of neighborhood, single family home, condominium, townhouse or 2-4 units staging enhances property value. Nice clean, clutter free, well appointed, bright and enticing homes attract buyers. Some homeowners may prefer a professional stager and that is OK. With a little elbow grease and individual designing ideas it is amazing what a do-it-yourself stager can do. Above are suggestions for the do-it-yourself. Not all suggestion will apply but homeowners may find some helpful suggestions.
Buying or Selling Real Estate
Gail MercedesCole
(310) 853-9933 Direct Line

Realtor Westside Homes-Residential Specialist
Houses - Duplex - Condominiums

     gail.mercedes@exprealty.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday, December 30, 2012

Living Trust - Westside Real Estate

Living Trust
Westside Real Estate

Living Trust - Westside Homes
What is a living trust? Are You Considering a Living Trust? Living trust is created while person is alive. After death property ownership transferred to successor trustee. Successor trustee transfers property to beneficiary. The successor trustee and  beneficiary are named in the trust.  Property transferred to living trust does not go to probate. Living trust can reduce or eliminate estate taxes depending on tax bracket. Explore your options with an experienced estate planning attorney, real estate attorney and or licensed financial advisor. Many states require that an attorney draft the trust. A trust exists when one person (the grantor or the settler) gives property to another person (the trustee) to hold and manage for other persons (the beneficiaries).  The grantor can amend or revoke the trust. Through the terms, the grantor keeps all of the benefits of any property placed into in the trust for the rest of his or her life. A living trust can consist of any property such as bank accounts, brokerage accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate. The terms of a trust are described in a written document often called, the Declaration of Trust or Trust Agreement.  This document is signed by the grantor and the trustee. The living trust is established while the grantor is alive (as opposed to a "testamentary" trust created after death). What is purpose of living trust? Often the purpose is to avoid probate.  The trust is recognized as a separate legal entity. The Trustee can only distribute assets that have been placed in the Trust.
 
A living Trust does not eliminate the need for a will.

Definitions:

  • Grantor:  The individual or couple that establishes the Trust is the Grantor. Also known as settlor, trustor, donor and creator.
  • Trustee: The person established by the trust as the controller of the trust  assets.
  • Beneficiaries: Are the heirs that will benefit from the Trust once the Grantor  has  passed away.
  • For more information about estate planning strategies: Talk to an experienced real estate attorney,  estate planning attorney and or financial advisor. 

Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Growing Herbal Garden - Westside Homes

What is a Herb?
Growing Herbs - Westside Real Estate
Herb growing guide and herbal glossary. What is old is new. Trends are showing that homeowners are growing their own herbs. Herbs are ancient plants. For centuries used for: medicinal purposes, fragrances, spiritual practices and culinary purposes. Presently herbs are grow as garden enhancers, for fragrances and cooking.
Herbs are the leafy, green part of aromatic plants. Cooks have options. Dried herbs can be purchased at your local market. In today’s health conscious world cooks are cooking with freshly grown herbs.Herbs can be grown at home. Herb are space-savers. Can be grown indoors or outdoors. Herbs can be grown in your kitchen or a special spot in your garden or patio. Outdoors herbs can make beautiful ornamental plants. Grown plant in clay pots or as a hanging plants. Where you choose to grow your plant is a personal choice but herbs gives you numerous options. Enrich your yard with fragrance beautiful herbs.


Starting a Herb Garden


Herb Garden

Seeding Indoors

Any small container will do. Make sure there are holes at the bottom of container for drainage. Your plant needs good drainage. Add your soil. I fertilize the soil before adding the seeds. Nutrients leak out of the soil . Place the seeds about ¼ of an inch from the top soil. Water well and cover with a plastic lid or clear plastic wrap. When I see healthy sprouts I remove the plastic cover. Two of the most important things to remember is during your seedling stage keep the soil moist at all times. Secondly, place in a sunny location in your home.

Seeding Outdoors
If you are planting directly outside choose a place only for your herbs. It maybe alongside other vegetables or flowers but seedlings must have full sunlight. Your outdoor seedlings need regular watering as well as fertilizer. If I am planting indoors or outdoor I like to use organic compost ensure healthy and flourishing plants. Never use any fertilizer that is not labeled for use on edible plants.


Planting and Growing Herbs Tips
Annual herbs are easy to start and inexpensive. Harvest to the plant’s full flavor. Limit pesticides to a minimum. I like to mix liquid soap and water spray pests. If this does not kill your pests check for non-toxic pesticides or pesticides used for edible plants.
Trimming Herbs
Once herbs are grown they have to be pruned. Since your will be using the herb for cooking there should not be a problem. If the herbs are not pruned they will grow tall and lanky. For a full healthy plant trim and prune regularly.



Designing Ideas





Herbs not limited to cooking can be used as ornamental plants. Herb plants are ornamental plants in the garden, potted or as hanging plants. The curly variety of Parsley makes a great edging plant. Bay laurel is a tall herb and can be potted and used at central points. Tri-color sage looks great in containers. Mint and Oregano tend to spread think about a hanging plant. Rosemary has great aroma edging herb for any walkway garden.


Herb Glossary
Arugula:
Mediterranean origin healthy green leafy vegetable. Used in salads. Arugula is a herb and not a lettuce. Annual growing elongated and lobar leaves. Young plant less peppery with a mild sweet flavor. - Contains vitamin C and vitamin K - Minerals copper and iron. There are small amounts of iron, calcium, manganese, phosphorus and calcium.
Bay:
Bay Laurel tree originated in Asia Minor. Cultivation spread into the Mediterranean and other countries with similar climates. Aromatic leaves used in soups, stews and braises. Bay leaves can be dried or fresh for cooking. The bay leaf does not develop full flavor until several weeks after picking and drying. Substitute: Thyme. Nice is small potted plants in patio, yard or kitchen.

Basil:







Originated in Asia. Cultivated in approximately 12 different varieties. Vegetables great with tomatoes. Easily growing plant dried or fresh basil used for flavoring. Can be used dried but best used as fresh plant for full flavoring. Leaves are used for flavoring. Have white flowering of medium size. Substitutes: Marjoram, Mint.


Cayenne Pepper:
Obtained from small fruited varieties of capsicum. Is a dull red color. Used in small amounts in vegetables, meats, salad dressing and cheese. Tangy pepper taste. Cayenne capsules used for nutritional health .

Chili Pepper:
Dark Red contains antioxidants and may retard bacterial growth. Dark red in color hot flavor.

Chives:
Smallest member of the onion family and has a mild onion flavor. Grow year-round. Easy herb to grow in the kitchen or garden. The plant grows in groups. The seed germinates well. Early in the year put seeds in pot keep warm and watered until little plant can survive outside. Place plant outside in organic compost mixed soil. Grow in sunny locations and does well in drain. Can survive in drought conditions but prefers moisture. Good with salads and Cold Plates. Substitutes: Scallions and Green Onions.


Cilantro:

Cilantro Plant
Mediterranean, Asian, South America and Caribbean Foods. Popular in Tex-Mex foods but also used in Indian and Thai cooking. A member if the parsley family. In ancient times used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Has contains Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Used in appetizers and main dishes. Substitutes: Flat-leaf


Cinnamon:


Cinnamon Sticks
Tan brown in color. Contains antioxidants and may retard bacterial growth. Has a pleasant bitter taste. Commonly used in baking, dessert and drink recipes.

- Cloves:

Aromatic dried flower buds dark brown in color. Grown primarily in Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India. Evergreen plant with large leaves and flowers. Primary cuisines worldwide are Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Adds flavor to meats, curries and fruits. Used in combination with other spices. Pairs well with cinnamon, allspice, vanilla, and basil.


Curry:
Used in Asian dishes.Contains antioxidants and may retard bacterial growth.


Dill:
Dill Blossom
Depending on the region dill can be grown perennial or annually. Originated in regions around the Mediterranean and South Russia. Dill herb used dried or fresh. The dill loses flavor potency when dried. The leaves are often called "dill weed". There is a difference between dill leaves and dill seeds. Both are herbs. Dill flavors: fish, chicken, eggs, salads, beans, carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, potatoes, pickles and sour cream or yogurt dips. Substitute: Caraway


Garlic:










Garlic Cloves
Member of onion family. Versatile culinary and medicinal plant. Used through the ages as "wonder drug". Staple into central Asia, Mediterranean, Africa and Europe. Known human uses of garlic is over 7,000 years old. Garlic was used to cure common colds, flu and extending to the plague in the Middle Ages. Garlic is a natural antibiotic. Aged garlic has powerful antioxidant effects. Many people do not like to taste or odor of raw garlic The health benefits may outweigh the taste and odor. For cooking seasoning for vegetables, meats, soup, stews and side dishes.

Hardy plant can be grown year-round. Grow in mild climates. Easy to grow. Plant cloves in ground with enough space for bulbs to mature. Plant about six weeks before frost. Harvest in spring. Combine soil with organic compost. Can also grown in decorative containers.


- Lavender

Beautiful Scented Lavender
Lavender is member of the mint family. Domestically grown in gardens and landscaping. Grown best in dry, well-drained, sandy or crush rocks mixed soil in full sun. English lavender is the most commonly grown. Lavender oils are extracted for commercial uses. Lavender oils have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Oils thought to soothe insect bites. Commercial perfumes are also produced from herb. Flowers produce high levels of nectar. Bees make high quality honey from lavender nectar. Lavender flowers are edible having floral scent and slightly sweet flavor. Occasionally, flowers are blended with herbal, green or black teas. In America both lavender scones and marshmallows are eaten. Dried flowers used as potpourris and fillers inside sachets. Dried flowers scent freshen rooms, linens and deters moths. Herb can be grown at home. Beautify your garden with lavender. Fresh flowers can be added to teas. Dried scent home as potpourris or fill sachets. Place filled sachets in storage spots to freshen and as pest repellant.


Like all herbs lavender has an ancient history. Found in southern Europe, Africa, and Mediterranean to the Canary Islands. In ancient time lavender seeds and flowers were placed under pillows to aid in relaxation and sleep. Lavender flower heads were combined with boiling water to aid relaxation. 

Lemon Grass: Thai Dishes, Chicken, Beef, Curry sometimes combined with coconut milk. Substitute: Lemon Zest

Lemon Verbena:
Lemon Verbena is a challenging plant to grow. Pairs well with:Fish, Poultry, Marinades, Salad Dressings, Jams, Sauces and Teas Substitute: Lemon Grass and Lemon Zest


Mint:


Mint Plant
Originated in Asia and Mediterranean regions. In many cultures mint is a symbol of hospitality and welcome. In the Middle East guest are served mint tea as a sign of welcome. In ancient Greece mint leaves were rub on the top of dining tables as a sign of welcome. Mints have been used as air fresheners in synagogues and temples. Mint is contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin B2. Mint also contains essential minerals manganese, copper, potassium and iron. Mint is a culinary treat in Lamb, Eggplant, Desserts Teas, Salads, Vegetables, Fruits, Desserts, Shakes and Drinks. Most common cooking mints are spearmint and peppermint. Substitute: Spicy Basil


Mustard:



Mustard Plant
Yellow flower herb. Young tender leaves are used for greens and for salads. Seeds are used as a ground spice in salads dressings, pickles, sauces, in some vegetables and cheeses.




Oregano:
Used to flavor beef, chicken, pasta, vegetables, soup and stews. Substitute: Marjoram, Mint, Basil

Parsley:
Two main groups of parsley are curly leaf or Italian flat leaf. Parsley is an annual plant. Cultivating takes about four to six weeks. Can be grown in pots. Plant can grow tall best location is in the yard. The parsley plant attract wild life and butterfly larvae. Popular herb that can be used in variety of ways. Parsley is common in Middle Eastern and European cuisines. Combine in fruit and vegetable salads, in sandwiches, in soup and gravy.

Pepper Grass or Cress:
Can be used in salads and sandwiches.


Peppermint:
Used in candies and toothpaste. Dried use as spice for drinks, desserts or as a tea. Peppermint has medicinal properties. Invasive plant and grows easily. As a companion plant grown around roses help keep aphids from roses. Peppermint and spearmint are the two most commonly used cooking mints. Some prefer spearmint because of its milder taste.

Red Pepper:



Red Pepper Plant - Herb
Red hot flavor herb. Can be ingredient in most foods. Ingredient in hot sauces. Pod and seeds nutritional benefits capsacin, vitamin A and vitamin C. Dried whole or grounded into powder. Fresh red pepper in cuisine recipes. Can be grown indoors for about 6 to 8 weeks. After indoor germination set outdoors. Total growing time approximately 15 to 18 weeks. Plant does not grow well in frost temperatures.



- Rosemary:


Creeping Rosemary Plant
The Latin name, Rosmarinus officinalis meaning,"dew of the sea". Herb that is ideal as a ornamental plant. The plant has a wonderful aroma. Rosemary herb is a common herb used in Mediterranean cuisines. Seeds can be difficult to germinate. It is recommended to purchase a nursery grown plant. In ancient times the herb was used for medicinal, spiritual rituals and seasoning for cooking. Burning rosemary branches was a practice for cleaning the air until the 20th century in French hospitals.


Sage
Ancient herb used for cooking and for medicinal purposes. Ancient Greeks and Romans used sage to preserve meats and for its medicinal properties. Ancient societies made numerous claims about sage. To name a few claims: conception, treat the plague, guard against witchcraft and enhance memory. These were ancient beliefs not facts. Nutritional benefits are contains vitamin A, calcium, iron and potassium. Low in calories and fats. Popular in Middle Eastern, Greek and Italian cuisines. Seasons poultry, beans, stuffing and pasta.


Spearmint:




Popular herb used in toothpaste and mouth wash. Use fresh or dried as food spice or teas. Medicinal uses. Small herb grows from mid summer to mid fall can reach heights of 13" to 18" and produces small blooms. Does well in cooler temperatures and needs approximately 6 hours of direct light per day. Two of the most popular cooking mints are spearmint and peppermint. Spearmint has a milder flavor than peppermint. Used in wide range of sweet, gourmet and savory dishes.






Stevia:


Stevia known as Sweet Leaf. An alternative to table sugar. Stevia about 300 times sweeter than table sugar. Comes in liquid and dried form. Grow in full sun light and water frequently. Stevia is 100% Paleo friendly sweetener. Has been used a a sweetener in Japan and China for hundred of years.





Sweet Basil:


Flavor of cloves. Originated in Asia and basil has approximately 12 varieties. Sweet basil has a sweet aroma derived from oils in the plant's stem. Flavors salads, soups and meats.






Tarragon:



French Tarragon Plant
Often used in French cooking. Difficult to germinate. Recommended to purchase nursery grown. A perennial plant prefers hot, sunny location. Do not over water. Goes dormant in the winter. Often referred to as, King of Herbs". Aromatic smell and taste disliked by many plant pest. Can be a protectorate for other plants against pest if near tarragon plant. Can reach 2.5 feet and in late fall yellow flowers appear. Used in: Chicken, Eggs, Fish Substitute: Anise, Fennel





Thyme:



Thyme is a member of the mint family. Thyme has an ancient history. In Ancient Egypt thyme was use for embalming. In Ancient Greece was used in baths. Thought to be a source of courage thyme was burnt in Ancient Greek temples. Roman used thyme to purify rooms. Also, added to cheese and liqueurs for it aromatic flavor. Europe in the Middle Ages thyme was given to warriors and knights to give the bearer courage. Most common types are Garden thyme and Lemon Thyme. Easy to grow in decoratively or home gardens. Grow in sunny hot location. Bonus, thyme is a pest repellent. Soil could be well drained. Perennial herb is drought tolerant plant. Grow by seeds or cuttings. Widely used culinary herb. Pairs well with soups, stews, eggs, vegetables, fish and lamb.

A home is more than brick and mortar. An attractive yard always enhances the appearance of any home. Add a few herbal plants in the yards. Herbs not only are great alternative plants but have dual purposes. Can be germinated in the home or yard. Herbs beautify the yard. Added benefits can be used for culinary purposes and as natural fragrances.

Buying or Selling
Gail MercedesCole
Realtor
(310) 853-9933