Drought Tolerant Gardening in Southern California

As you probably know, Southern California is in a drought state of emergency.  According to the California Department of Water Resources, 2013 came to a close being the driest year in history in many areas of California.  We are being urged to conserve as much water as we can.  One easy way to help with water shortages is to plant drought tolerant gardens that don't require much water ... or much fuss.  These plants are still beautiful and come in a variety of shapes, textures and colors.  Some even attract butterflies!

Sunset and Better Homes & Gardens have both compiled a list of drought tolerant plants that are suitable for the Southern California region (as well as many others areas).

You can view the lists of drought tolerant plants, as well as other garden related articles here:
SUNSET // http://www.sunset.com/garden/flowers-plants/low-water-plants
BETTER HOMES & GARDENS // http://www.bhg.com/gardening/gardening-by-region/southern-california/top-drought-tolerant-perennials-for-southern-california/

*Photo credit to Sunset.com

Annual Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

The Summer heat is quick approaching here in Southern California!  We've already had glimpses of what's to come, with temperatures over 100* recently.  To get your air conditioning unit ready for regular use, Apartment Therapy has compiled a list of 5 action items on how to keep your air conditioners running efficiently and in tip-top shape.  Keeping up on annual maintenance can save lots of repair dollars in the future.  Setting up calendar reminders through Google or alerts on your phone can be an easy way to help you stay organized with your annual home maintenance to-do lists!

The basics are:

1) Change the filter.

2) Clean the vents.

3) Check to see if you're blocking the condensing unit.

4) Check your freon levels.

5) Check all other components.

You can find the list in detail on Apartment Therapy's website here.

Family Handyman has a step-by-step tutorial (with pictures) on how to clean your air conditioning unit with just a few simple tools and about an hour of your time.  You can find that article here.

Things to Consider for First Time Home Buyers

This is an amazing graphic full of great information for first time home buyers.  It lists out some common mistakes people make when planning to buy a home, as well as how to make your first purchase a success.  Grab a pen and paper and start making lists so you can be prepared for what's to come in your journey to owning your own home!

If you have specific questions or would like a consultation, please contact me at Lisa@LisaPiltz.com. I also have a network of highly recommended lenders that I would be happy to share with you to become pre-qualified to purchase a home.

Fishing in Rancho Santa Margarita

Annual Fishing Derby

Saturday, June 14th

7:00-10:00 am

Lakeshore Park and Amphitheater

SAMLARC is hosting it's annual Fishing Derby at the Rancho Santa Margarita Lake.  Along with fishing, there will be games, prizes, music and face painting!

Registration is on the morning of the event.  More information for the event and contests, you can visit www.samlarc.org or contact Kristi Alanes at kristi.alanes@fsresidential.com.

Parks and Trails Map for Rancho Santa Margarita

Summer is almost here and school will be out before we know it!  Below is a Map of community trails, parks, pools and recreation facilities in Rancho Santa Margarita that may be helpful for your Summer activity planning.

This map, along with many other helpful resources and links can be found on www.samlarc.org.  You can view the full size PDF map here.

How to Make Your Home Look Larger

Whether you are getting ready to sell your home or are staying put in your home but are ready for some updates, take a look at the helpful tips listed below.  There are ways to make your home lighter, brighter and even appear larger with some easy guidelines, such as how to lay flooring and what kind of lighting to use.

Wine & Cheese Event at the Rancho Santa Margarita Beach Club

Wine & Cheese Event

Saturday, May 17th

5:30-8:00 pm

Rancho Santa Margarita Beach Club

The annual Wine and Cheese event at the Rancho Santa Margarita Beach Club is just around the corner!  The event will be beautifully decorated for an evening of live music, wine, cheese, appetizers, pasta and chocolate desserts.

Hurry because the ticket purchase deadline is Wednesday, May 14th (or until they sell out). Those 21 and older may purchase tickets at the SAMLARC business office for $20, for SAMLARC members, or $25 for non-members.  The office is located at 22342A Avenida Empressa, Suite 102A in Rancho Santa Margarita.

For more information, you may visit the SAMLARC website at www.samlarc.org or you can contact Kristi Alanes at kristi.alanes@fsresidential.com

* Edited // This event is SOLD OUT!

Single Family Home for Sale in Rancho Santa Margarita

This one won't last long!  Rancho Santa Margarita 3br, 1.5 bath 1755 sqft. single family home at the very end of the cul-de-sac.  HUGE lot at 9,700+ sqft, private backyard, enough driveway for 4 cars or more, RV or boat parking on the side and priced to sell to the right buyer.  The entry, living and dining room have cathedral ceilings and feel very light and bright.  Kitchen has lots of storage and a breakfast nook, and all 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths are upstairs.  2 Raposa has great curb appeal, but it does need a handy buyer to restore this home to its original glory.  This home is situated in the very popular Serenada neighborhood and homes sell very quickly with multiple offers. The HOA dues are $55/month and allow you access to the many pools, beach club, sport courts, walking and hiking trails, beautiful Rancho Santa Margarita Lake and shops and restaurants, all within a short walking distance.  This is truly a great opportunity not to be missed!

For more information or to set up a showing, please contact Lisa@Lisapiltz.com

Garden Design Workshop in Rancho Santa Margarita

   Garden Design & 

   Planting Workshop

   Rancho Santa Margarita Beach Club

   9:30-11:00 am

   $5 Registration

Join me and the Community Living Committee at a garden design workshop held at the Rancho Santa Margarita Beach Club!  Mark your calendars for this coming Saturday, May 10th from 9:30-11:00 am.  We will be discussing the basics of soil prep, fertilizing, annuals vs. perennials, plants for sun vs. shade and drought tolerant plantings.  All attendees will create and take home an annual color bowl or a succulent bowl.  The cost is $5 and pre-registration is recommended due to the limited space available.  For registration, please contact Susan Ciotoli (Community Lifestyle Coordinator) at (949) 709-0013 // susan.ciotoli@fsresidential.com

* Edited // Only a few spots remain!