The highly coveted professional designation will allow Ascent Real Estate Agents obtain better results in the sale or purchase of their home. 

SAN DIEGO, April 22, 2011 – In today’s real estate market, everything is competitive, and it takes skill, expertise and uniqueness to succeed, whether it’s buying/selling a home as a consumer or a Realtor®.

Six Ascent Real Estate agents, Adam Allerton, Robin Borrelli, Jeff Discher, Scott Gentry, Monique LeBlanc, and Ron Oster, all licensed Realtors®, were bestowed with the highly regarded CNE® certification this month. With professional negotiation skills, CNE® agents have a powerful competitive edge by utilizing skills such as communicating effectively to uncover more information, helping clients understand their options, working collaboratively with others, and resolve deadlocks.

“This course allowed me to advance my negotiating skills tremendously; I have been in the Real Estate business for over 30 years,” said Ron Oster, one of the recipients of the designation and licensed Realtor® with Ascent Real Estate. “I believe that by continuing to attend courses such as these, are the best way to serve my clients.”

CNE® agents have a thorough understanding of how to negotiate effectively to help achieve their client’s goals, according to the Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI), which confers the designation.

“One of the many aspects that we believe sets our agency apart from the competition is that our agents are encouraged and assisted to pursue continuing education, whether it’s a CNE® designation, or Social Media Training,” said Penny Nathan, President and Broker of Ascent Real Estate. “We have great agents whom embrace and pursue these opportunities.”

The RENI is the leading negotiation training and coaching company in the real estate industry.  Tom Hayman, the CEO and Co-Founder of the Real Estate Negotiation Institute, is a professional negotiator with 35+ years of negotiation experience, including 25 years with The Procter and

Gamble Company (Fortune 50 company).  Hayman asserts “Any Buyer or Seller who hires a CNE® agent can feel confident they have one of the best trained negotiators in real estate.  They should achieve superior results and have better resolution of all issues when represented by a CNE® agent.”

Ascent Real Estate is a locally based, full service Real Estate Company serving all of San Diego County. Ascent is headquartered in historic Banker’s Hill at 410 Kalmia Street, San Diego, CA, 92101.

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Lead by Experts in Historic Home Preservation, Guided Walking Tour Showcases the Captivating Architecture and History of One of San Diego’s Oldest Neighborhoods.

SAN DIEGO, April 16, 2011 – Locals interested in a rare opportunity to take a walk back in time can join a guided tour through one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Diego. Lead by guides knowledgeable in historic architecture, participants will get a unique education of the historic Mission Hills district, and the homes and culture that defined early 20^th century San Diego.

On April 16^th tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis at the start location for the walk. From there, participants will take a journey through one of the most architecturally diverse neighborhoods in San Diego. Famous regional architectural styles featured in the Mission Hills walk include bungalow, craftsman, prairie school, mission & Spanish revival, built by some of San Diego’s leading architects and builders including Emmor Brooke Weaver, William Hebbard, Del Harris and David Owen Dryden.

One of the stops along the tour will include Ascent Real Estate, located at 902 Fort Stockton Drive.  Ascent will act as the Mills Act information hub, where visitors can view maps of current and proposed historic districts and speak with one of Ascent’s Mills Act specialists.  The Mills Act is an economic incentive program in California for the restoration and preservation of qualified historic buildings by private property owners. Information on qualifying for the Mills Act and the potential tax savings will also be available.

“What’s special about this walk is it offers a chance to learn about the magnificent early 20^th century architecture in San Diego and consult with knowledgeable agents who are readily available to answer questions,” said Celeste Dunn, National Preservation Trust Accredited Realtor at Ascent Real Estate.

While viewing landmark residences along the walk, guides will paint a picture of the time period and the inhabitants who lived in the Mission Hills neighborhoods, many who were notable San Diego artists, inventors and civic leaders.

The home tour will also discuss the impetus for the first residents driven historic district in San Diego County, a process that began in 2002 with the loss of important and unique craftsman homes.

Walk Details:

Tickets for the walk will be available on April 16^th at the starting location at 10:00 a.m. (Address: 1705 West Lewis Street, Mission Hills, 92103 outside L.B. Powers & Son Plumbing Shop)

Tickets are $15 per person (children under 12 are free). Tours are first come first serve and limited to 25 people. Tours will run at the following times: 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. Light snacks and beverages are included as well.

Those interested in joining this unique adventure into historic San Diego can call 619.297.9710. Historic District Tour Flier

2011 COLLEGE NEIGHBORHOODS FOUNDATION ORGANIC AND SUSTAINABLE HOME TOUR

Annual home tour invites those living outside the area to experience a secluded neighborhood with some of San Diego’s most unique homes.

SAN DIEGO, April 11, 2011 – The College Neighborhoods Foundation is pleased to announce its 2011 Spring Home Tour featuring the beautiful neighborhood of College View Estates. This tour gives a glimpse into the Modern-style architecture of this distinctive San Diego Post-War neighborhood just west of the SDSU campus.

The Title Sponsor of the tour, Steve Seus, a licensed Realtor® with Ascent Real Estate, has worked in many of San Diego’s neighborhoods, but is particularly familiar with College View Estates. “This neighborhood is one of San Diego’s most unique and is very desirable due to its secluded location, with many of homes built by some of Southern California’s most famous architects,” said Seus. “One home is completely organic and sustainable, built within a canyon with a garden serving as the roof of the home.”

This home, designed by local architect Robert Ferris and the owners, is a unique earth-integrated and energy conservative 1979 organic-style house.  The owners have continued to upgrade and improve the property, commenting on their most recent improvements, “I realized to be a truly green house, we needed to make upgrades. Now we are completely green with solar panels and water collectors,” said the proud homeowner. “We pay annually, what we once paid monthly for our gas and electric.”

Several of the other large, customized mid-century “tract” homes have also been upgraded with similar sustainable solar and energy saving devices, design, and décor.

Another noted dwelling on the tour is a beautiful 1958 Sim Bruce designed Organic Modern building with decorative treatments from noted artist/architect James Hubbell. This is first time this architecturally influential house will be available for home tour ticket holders.

The 2011 Spring Home Tour will take place Friday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 16th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.collegeneighborhoods.com until the event is sold out. Tickets will also be available for purchase on the days of the events.

The mission of the College Neighborhoods Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in the College Neighborhoods and support the revitalization of business.  This home tour encourages community pride, wellbeing and introduces those living outside the area to one of the many vibrant communities located within the College Neighborhoods.

Ascent Real Estate is a locally based, full service Real Estate Company serving all of San Diego County. Ascent is headquartered in historic Banker’s Hill at 410 Kalmia Street, San Diego, CA, 92101.

WHAT: The College Neighborhoods Foundation is pleased to announce its 2011 Spring Home Tour featuring the beautiful neighborhood of College View Estates. This tour gives a glimpse into the Modern-style architecture of this distinctive San Diego Post-War neighborhood just west of the SDSU campus.

WHEN: Friday April 15th at 6:30 pm – Saturday April 16th from 10am – 3 pm.

WHERE: College View Estates

For a complete list of homes in the area, visit http://www.collegeneighborhoods.com

WHY: The mission of the College Neighborhoods Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in the College Neighborhoods and support the revitalization of business. This home tour encourages community pride, wellbeing and introduces those living outside the area to one of the many vibrant communities located within the College Neighborhoods.

NOTES: Several of the other large, customized mid-century “tract” homes have also been upgraded with similar sustainable solar and energy saving devices, design, and décor.

Please see the attached press release for details on the homes and tour.

Contact: Matt Habecker

Blue Swell Communications

619/987-9982

matt@blueswellcom.com

SAN DIEGO, March 16, 2011 – As state and federal budget cuts continue to threaten the quality of education in California, one school has decided to take matters into their own hands.

A budget shortfall for the upcoming school year at Grant K8 School, located in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego, will mean the loss of three critical positions that students rely on for a well-rounded education. The loss of these positions would highly reduce student’s access to imperative subjects like science, music and research, at one of the most pivotal points in their education.

“Grant K8 is one of San Diego’s finest schools, thanks to the commitment of its parents, students and staff,“ said Dr. Monique Robertson, principal at Grant K8 School. “The strength of our school is a testament to the Mission Hills community. Please make a donation to the Grant PTA to help its educators maintain its standard of excellence.”

Grant K8 School, in partnership with local real estate firm Ascent Real Estate, has launched a campaign to raise $100,000 in 100 days toward saving the critical positions of Science Lab Coordinator, Middle School Band/Music instructor, and Library Technician.

“Saving these positions at Grant is not only to ensure students will go to school each day and be offered the chance to be engaged in science and the arts, but to also protect the value of the homes in the area during these uncertain economic times,” said Penny Nathan, President/Broker of Ascent Real Estate. “As a leader in the San Diego real estate market, and a responsible community advocate, we knew we had to do everything in our power to assist in this endeavor.”

According to the National Association of Realtors “Of all the local neighborhood amenities that can influence a buyer’s decision to purchase a home, proximity to good quality schools is one of the most influential.”

Megan Beauvais, Jen Rix and Sabine Steck of Ascent Real Estate have joined Grant K8 School’s ambitious campaign to save these jobs by bringing this message directly to the residents of Mission Hills, hand-delivering information on the campaign to every door possible.

Those interested in helping in this effort can visit www.grantk8.com and click the “Donate Now” button, or stop by the Grant K-8, located at 1425 Washington Place
San Diego, CA 92103-1792, to make an in-person donation.

Ascent Real Estate, Inc is a San Diego-owned and operated, full-service real estate company. Ascent is headquartered in historic Banker’s Hill at 410 Kalmia Street, San Diego, CA, 92101. Media inquiries should be directed to Matt Habecker at 619/955-7869 or matt@blueswellcom.com.

Metro Agent of The Year Award for 2010

SAN DIEGO, April 1, 2011 – Success in real estate is hard earned in today’s market, as well as the respect and acknowledgment from your peers within a highly competitive industry. Gina Barnes, a veteran Realtor® practicing in the San Diego area, has earned these honors as this year’s Metro Agent of the Year, an annual award presented by the San Diego Metro Realtors Organization.

“Gina is a prime example of an agent that acts as your advocate,” said Penny Nathan, Broker and Owner of Ascent Real Estate. “She is well-respected not only at our firm, but throughout the San Diego Metro area for her high-ethical standards, spirit and knowledge. We are honored to have Gina on the Ascent team.”

Having lived in San Diego her entire life, Gina Barnes has extensive knowledge of the various neighborhoods in San Diego and their distinct diversity. The neighborhoods and properties she specializes in are unique and take a special skill set and understanding of older vintage homes.

“Being given this award is an honor as a San Diego native and means so much to me, especially since I was chosen by my peers in the industry,” said Gina Barnes. “I have a great team and work with a great firm, and feel like I owe them some of the credit for this honor.”

Throughout her career, Gina Barnes has received numerous awards and distinctions, having received the Metro Agent of The Year Award once before, since beginning her real estate career in 1989. Gina Barnes has proven skill, understanding, and expertise in Short Sales, Foreclosures and Trust Sales, as well as the Traditional Sale.

Ascent Real Estate, Inc. is a premier full service Real Estate Company serving all of San Diego County. Ascent is headquartered in historic Banker’s Hill at 410 Kalmia Street, San Diego, CA, 92101. Media inquiries should be directed to Matt Habecker at 619/955-7869 or matt@blueswellcom.com.

Ascent Real Estate REALTORS® are opening doors to a collection of America’s Finest City’s residences.

On Super Saturday, home shoppers will have an opportunity to view a sampling of San Diego’s eclectic architectural styles.  The Open House Extravaganza will feature affordable condos, a beach condo, luxury high-rise condos, classic Spanish and Craftsman styles, a Mid-Century split-level, bay view homes, urban-chic townhomes and rowhomes, and a 1920s Mission Hills Spanish estate, just to name a few.

Whatever the budget, there is sure to be dream home for any buyer.  If you are planning on buying this year, start on Super Saturday at one of our open houses.

An open house is a perfect opportunity to speak with an Ascent Real Estate associate and to find a REALTOR® you want to work with on the search of your next home.

On Super Saturday you will see a selection of what is available; however, when you work with an Ascent Real Estate REALTOR®, he or she will be able to show you targeted homes that are within your parameters and budget – all at your convenience.

Even if you’re not currently “in the market” Ascent Real Estate encourages you to spread the word.  You may just help a friend or relative find their dream home.

For more information, contact your Ascent Real Estate REALTOR® or visit http://www.ascentrealestate.net/

SAN DIEGO, March 20, 2011 – Buying a home “can be like break-dancing in a minefield – one wrong move, and the whole thing can blow up in your face,” says Michael Wolf, author of “The First Time Homebuyer Book: All You Need To Know To Help You Buy Your First Place” and a veteran Realtor® practicing in the San Diego area.

Recent years have taught many new homebuyers about the complexities that come with making a real estate purchase. When the romance of finding the perfect home begins to fade and the realities of the purchase come to light, many first-time homebuyers do not know where to turn.

As Wolf points out in his book, “the word ‘challenging’ comes to mind for a first-time homebuyer in today’s market. From the search, to the financing, to the numerous hurdles and pitfalls, the foreclosures and short sales, the buyer-seller dynamics, what your friends are telling you to do, what your agent is saying, what your significant other is telling you, and so on, it’s tough to navigate your way safely into your new home.”

A true companion piece for any new homebuyer, “The First Time Homebuyer Book” is complete with real world accounts of the “do’s and don’ts” in home buying and guides the reader through each and every step of the home buying process, from the minute a decision is made to purchase a home all the way through the close of escrow.

“I wrote this book so new homebuyers wouldn’t feel ‘lost’ and intimidated by the home buying process, which is easier than ever given the fluctuating state of the markets,” says Wolf. “My hope is that readers of the book will feel prepared and confident in their decision-making process and have all the tools necessary to make wise choices.”

“The First Time Homebuyer Book “ offers a resource to help homebuyers find your first agent and loan person as well as several other helpful guides and links for help with your home throughout the entire process of the home purchase. The book purchase allows access to the books website where all of these resources are available. It’s a whole systems approach for anyone who needs the best prep before taking the plunge into homeownership.

Author Michael Wolf, a Realtor® with Ascent Real Estate, studied for a master’s degree in architecture at the New School of Architecture and Design in San Diego and received a bachelor’s degree in economics at the University of California at Santa Cruz. He has earned several production and sales distinctions since starting his professional career in 2005.

“The First Time Homebuyer Book “ is available for purchase in both paperback and online versions at www.thefirsttimehomebuyerbook.com. Online versions are also available on Amazon.com, Smashwords.com and BarnesandNoble.com for download on portable devices.

Ascent Real Estate, Inc. is a premier full service Real Estate Company serving all of San Diego County. Ascent is headquartered in historic Banker’s Hill at 410 Kalmia Street, San Diego, CA, 92101. Media inquiries should be directed to Matt Habecker at 619/955-7869 or matt@blueswellcom.com.

Mama’s Pantry opened its doors in February of 2004 to clients who don’t need home meal deliveries, but can benefit from an occasional bag of groceries to help maintain their health and stretch their food budgets. Once a month, clients can visit Mama’s Pantry and select their own non-perishable items such as cereals, pastas and canned goods from a wide inventory.

A distinctive red “Mama’s Pantry” barrel has been placed at each of the Ascent offices.  Ascent agents, their family, friends and clients are invited to fill these barrels with much needed provisions for Mama’s Pantry.  

To find an Ascent offince near you, call your Ascent Realtor or click here http://www.ascentrealestate.net/contactinfo

Ken Tablang of Ascent Real Estate has been named Realtor® of the Year for 2010 by the San Diego Association of Realtors (SDAR).  This prestigious honor is awarded annually to an individual agent, out of thousands, who is recognized by his peers and the Association for having demonstrated high ethics, integrity and service to the community and the real estate industry. 

 Ken and his partner, Gina Barnes, head the kengina.com team.  With annual sales averaging over $13 million dollars, kengina.com was awarded Top Sales Team in 2008 and 2009 at Ascent Real Estate. 

“Being a Realtor® means a high level of dedication to providing clients and people within my community an enjoyable and rewarding experience in real estate and home investment,” says Ken.

For 18 years, Ken has served on various committees at SDAR.  He is a returning member of the Board of Directors and serves on the professional standards committee.  In addition, he is an active member and serves on committees for the Metro Area Real Estate Professionals for Youth Housing, Rotary Club, Asian Business Association, and the San Diego Chamber of Commerce.  He is also a member of the Board of Directors of Coronado Real Estate Association (CREA).

Ken’s community service include the San Diego Food Bank, Veteran Stand Down, and Mission Hills Garden Club. He supports the Girl Scouts, Dual Paul Harris Fellowships, Ambassadors Foundation, MARYAH, and breast cancer awareness programs.

 “Ken’s never-ending energy, enthusiasm and commitment to professional standards of excellence are second to none.  It is an honor to have Ken as our Colleague and Associate.  His service to the numerous boards and committees and to the numerous charities he serves set him apart.  He greatly deserves this recognition,” said Penny Nathan, President/Broker, Ascent Real Estate.

 Ken Tablang and the kengina.com team can be found at the Ascent Real Estate, Bankers Hill office, located at 410 Kalmia Street, or online at www.kengina.com.