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Bakersfield Information Guide [ 5 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
The NewMarket Services Information Guide is designed as a valuable resource tool for you, the newcomer to Bakersfield. It is our intent in producing this publication to standardize important and helpful information on your new community in a format that is most useful to you. Stores and services are listed by category Bakersfield Welcomes You! in the business directory.
Important telephone numbers, mortgage loans, and much, much more useful information is found throughout the Guide pages. Selected area businesses, many offering significant savings are found in the listing, sorted by category.
Also in this Guide you will find a sampling of demographics and price ranges of real estate in Bakersfield. and the surrounding suburbs, along with several condominiums and new construction single family home developments.
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(866) 595-3792 Toll Free From everyone at NewMarket Services Welcome to Bakersfield!
6 ] Bakersfield Information Guide www.newmarketservices.com Bakersfield Information Guide [ Volume 7 [ Number 12
LOCAL INFORMATION Important Phone Numbers 13 Voter Registration 13 Travel Information 14-15 Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration 16 About Bakersfield 9 Publisher: NewMarket Services, Inc. Bakersfield History 10 Local Hotels 17 President: Patrick Morgan Thing To Do 18-19 Managing Editor: Rebecca Wallace Media 20 Executive Editor: Jason Gerali MOVING Contributing Writer: Amy Tennant Smooth Transitions 22-23 Executive VP Sales & Marketing: Robert Fischer Choosing a Moving Company 22 Regional Sales Manager: Beth Hurley Packing Tips 22-23 Staying Organized 23 Art Department: Sprague Design Co. Settling Into Your New Home 23 Graphic Designer: Dean Sprague What’s All The Talk About? 24 NewMarket On-Line: Total Web Design, Inc. Pre-Move Checklist 26-27
IT and Web Development: Larry Bongiovi MOVING WITH CHILDREN & PETS Research Assistant: Stephanie Cooper, Lora Price Reinforce the Positives 29-30 Circulation: Little Drummer Boy Dist., Inc. Choosing a School 29-30 Selecting Child Care 30-31 Phoenix Office: Education 32-34 1814 East Bell Road, Suite 2113 Relocating Your Pet 35 Phoenix, AZ 85022 Phone: (602) 923-3415 FITNESS & HEALTH Fax: (602) 923-0774 In the Kitchen 37 Toll Free: (866) 595-3791 Physical and Mental Well Being 38-40 Volunteering 41 Chicago Office: 902 North Ashland HOUSING Chicago, IL 60622 Making the Right Choice 43-44 Phone: (312) 226-6288 Choosing the Right Home 45 Fax: (312) 226-6290 Housing Options For Growing Senior Demographics 46-47 Toll Free: (866) 595-3792 Home Inspection Checklist 48 Homecare Basics for New Homeowners 49 NewMarket currently publishes Information Take Control of Your Energy Costs 50 Guides for 95 North American and 32 International Markets. To order your Security 51 NewMarket Information Guides for $3.50 Home Buyer’s Glossary 52-53 each, please contact NewMarket Services Who’s Who in Building 54 toll free at (866) 595-3792. Selecting a Contractor 55 In preparing this publication, every effort Selecting a Builder 56 has been made to assure the accuracy of Mortgage Information 57-59 the information contained herein, but authenticity cannot be guaranteed. Listings BUSINESS DIRECTORY are subject to omission, error or change without notice. Business Directory Listings 60-61
All material in this publication is copyright protected and can only be reprinted with permission of the publisher.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 7 THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
European explorers first began contacting the region in the 16th century; the area was inhabited by a variety of Native American tribes. The coastal areas of the state were colonized by Spain beginning in 1769, but became a part of the Mexico in 1821 because of the Mexican War of Independence. It was part of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, and then was ceded to the United States in the Mexican-American War, which ended in 1848. Reno The California Gold Rush of 1848-1849 brought about 90,000 Sacramento additional U.S. migrants to the state, and California became the Oakland 31st state of the Union in 1850. San Francisco Stockton NV The state’s major predominant industries include agriculture, Modesto entertainment, light manufacturing, and tourism. California is also Silicon Valley the home of several significant economic regions such as Monterey Salinas Hollywood (entertainment), the California Central Valley (agriculture), Fresno Silicon Valley (computers and high tech), and the Wine Country (wine). California’s economy is the largest in the United States, and CA at $1.55 trillion, is larger than all but 7 countries. Per capita personal income was $33,403 as of 2003, ranking it 12th in the nation. San Luis Obispo Las Vegas Bakersfield Most of the state has a Mediterranean climate, with rainy winters and dry summers. The climate along the coast is mild; cooler along Santa Barbara the central and northern coast. Southeastern California is arid Ventura County desert. Along the cost, the rainy season runs from October to April San Bernardino AZ in the north and from November to March or April in the south. Los Angeles Pacific Ocean Record temperaturs of a high 134 °F (56.6 °C at Death Valley on Orange County Riverside July 10, 1913 and a record low of -45° at Boca on January 20, 1937. Average yearly precipitation ranges from under 5 inches in south-east to 120+ in parts of the north-west. San Diego California levies a 9.3% maximum variable rate income tax, with
Mexico 6 tax brackets and a 7.25% sales tax.
he State of California covers the southern portion of the United States’ west coast. With a population of 37 million and an area of 158,402 square miles, California is the largest Fast Facts T ESTIMATED POPULATION: 37,172,015 U.S. state in population and the third largest in area. LAND AREA: 158,302 sq mi California borders the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the north, Nevada and Arizona to the east, and the Mexican state of COASTLINE: 840 miles Baja California to the south. The state has incredible geographic CAPITAL: Sacramento diversity. It has both the highest and lowest elevations in the STATE MOTTO: Eureka Continental US (within 100 miles of each other), an expansive central valley, tall mountains, arid deserts, and hundreds of miles of STATE NICKNAME: The Golden State coastline. Most major cities are at or near the Pacific coastline, LARGEST CITIES: Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Jose notably Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Santa STATE SALES TAX: 7.5% Ana/Orange County, Riverside/Moreno Valley, San Bernardino and San Diego. However, the capital, Sacramento, is in the Central Valley, and there are other significant cities on the interior.
8 ] Bakersfield Information Guide ABOUT BAKERSFIELD
OVERVIEW
Bakersfield is a thriving community nestled among three mountain ranges at the southern end of California’s vast and gorgeous San Joaquin Valley. Bakersfield is the county seat of Kern, and lies approximately 100 miles north of Los Angeles (about a 1.5 hour drive). It is California's third largest inland city. The area is known for its native beauty, with the Tehachapi’s, Temblor and Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges serving as background for rolling hills scattered with signature California chaparral and the beautiful Kern River flowing through the valley. The area’s climate is warm and dry. The face of Bakersfield is changing. While maintaining its homespun hospitality Bakersfield is emerging as a leader of industry and a center for arts and entertainment. The city’s economy thrives on agriculture, petroleum extraction, and refining. It is one of the fastest growing of the larger cities of the United States. Residents enjoy a quality of life unrivaled by most other California communities because of Bakersfield’s affordability. People can afford homes that would be out of their range in more urban or coastal cities, all while living just a couple of hours from the amenities of Los Angeles, mountains and the Pacific shore. January is the coolest month of the year with average daily temperatures of 57 degrees Fahrenheit. July is the hottest month of the year with an average daily temperature of 99 degrees Fahrenheit. Bakersfield receives an average of just under six inches of rain a year. The weather is ideal for the citrus, almond, tomato, potato, pomegranate and grape crops that help to make Kern the fourth most productive agricultural county in the continental United States. In addition, Kern County is number one in the nation for oil production. Nearby vineyards produce 25 percent of California’s wine, and surrounding fields provide a colorful flower display in spring. BAKERSFIELD Bakersfield offers something for everyone. Restaurants serve authentic Mexican food, old QUICK FACTS west steak dinners and local country cooking. Bakersfield has a large Basque population and many of Bakersfield’s oldest and most historic restaurants are Basque. From the old Population: 247,057 west to dynamic new architecture, historic animal fossils to exotic dining…country music to County: Kern hip hop…quaint antique shops to indoor mega-malls…Bakersfield has something for everyone! Time Zone: Pacific Time Sales Tax: 7.28% Median Home Value: $106,500 Total Housing Units: 88,262 Median Income: $51,582
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 9 HISTORY OF BAKERSFIELD
The Yokut Indians were the first people to settle in the San Bakersfield, giving a great boost to population. Then, in the 1930s, Joaquin Valley, some 8000 years ago. In 1776, the Spanish the Dust Bowl brought a great influx of migrant workers from the missionary Father Francisco Garcés was the first European to reach Great Plains, Arkansas and Oklahoma taking work mostly in the area. In 1851 gold was discovered in the Kern River, and in agriculture and the oil industry. In John Steinbeck's historical novel 1865 the first discovery of oil was made in the valley. Overnight it The Grapes of Wrath, Bakersfield is one of the locations that the changed from a placid farm town to a wild mining community, protagonists pass through. In later years, farm work in the area has complete with gunfights and gambling halls. Settlements grew up, mostly been conducted by Mexican immigrants. In the 1960s, and the place soon became known as “Colonel Baker’s field”, after César Chávez led the fight to improve working conditions for one of the local settlers. When Colonel Tom Baker was given the migrant farm workers. assignment of surveying a township in 1869, the town was given The great earthquake of July 21, 1952, changed the appearance the official name of “Bakersfield”. of Bakersfield, promoting the flat, sprawling style of building that The town continued to grow, and reached a population of about dominates the city today. 300 by 1869, and 800 by 1871. Adversities such as the floods of 1867 and 1893, and the fires of 1889 and 1919, did not reverse this trend. On May 27, 1898, the San Joaquin Valley Railroad arrived in
10 ] Bakersfield Information Guide
NATIONAL HEALTH ORGANIZATION PHONE NUMBERS
National Health Organization Mental Health Simply dial plus the number below 1-800-*… National Alliance for the Mentally Illness (NAMI) 950-6264 Allergy National Down Syndrome Society 244-4444 Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AFFA) 727-8462 National Mental Health Association Resource Ctr 969-6642 Cancer Neurology American Cancer Society 227-2345 National Alzheimer’s Association 272-3900 American Institute for Cancer Research. 843-8114 Christopher Reeve’s Paralysis Foundation 225-0292 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America 955-4572 American Parkinson Disease Association 223-2732 National Cancer Institute (CIS) 422-6237 Epilepsy Foundation of America. 332-1000 Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) 754-6490 United Cerebral Palsy Associations (UCPA) 872-5827 Children’s Health Huntington’s Disease Society of America 345-4372 American SIDS Foundation 232-7437 Brain Injury Association of America Family Hotline 444-6443 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) 344-4823 National Headache Foundation 843-2256 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 223-1138 National Multiple Sclerosis Society 344-4867 Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Alliance 221-7437 National Stroke Association 787-6537 National Reye’s Syndrome Foundation, Inc. 233-7393 Patient Care Spina Bifida Association of American 621-3141 Medic Alert Foundation U.S. 863-3425 or 432-5378 Infectious Diseases National Hospice Organization 658-8898 AIDS Hotline, CDC National, National STD Hotline 342-AIDS Shriner’s Hospital Referral Line 237-5055 (Spanish) 344-7432 Visiting Nurse Association of America 426-2547 (Hearing Impaired) 243-7889 Physical Disabilities Internal Medicine American Council of the Blind. 424-8666 American Diabetes Association 232-3472 American Speech/Language/Hearing Association 638-8255 American Heart Association 242-8721 or 968-1793 National Easter Seals Society 221-6827 American Kidney Association 638-8299 Woman’s Health American Lung Association 586-4872 Endometriosis Association. 992-3636 Arthritis Foundation 283-7800 Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization. 221-2141 Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Inc. 932-2423 *This is a Toll-Free Number! Lupus Foundation of America 558-0121 This is only a partial list of national health organizations. National Kidney Foundation 622-9010 Contact the National Health Information Center (NHIC) Spondylitis Association of American (SAA) 777-8189 at (800) 336-4797 for a more complete list.
NOTE: This general information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional as it relates to your specific situation.
12 ] Bakersfield Information Guide IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
City Area Code(s) Government Numbers The area code for Bakersfield is 661. Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-1040 Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213 Emergency All Emergencies 911 Support Networks Kern County Sheriff's Department (661) 391-7500 Teen Link (Various Topics) (800) 235-9678 1350 Norris Road Crisis Pregnancy Center (800) 395-4357 California Highway Patrol (661) 864-4444 Services 4040 Buck Owens Blvd Directory Assistance 411 City of Bakersfield Police Department (661) 327-7111 1601 Truxtun Avenue Shipping & Postal Service City Fire Department (661) 326-3911 Airborne Express (800) 247-2676 2101 H Street Federal Express (800) 463-3339 Crisis Pregnancy Center (800) 395-4357 UPS (800) 742-5877 Poison Control (800) 764-7661 Utilities Runaway Hotline (800) 392-3352 Phone/Cable Financial Services Time Warner Cable (800) 734-4615 Automatic Teller Information 3600 Sillect Ave ATM Locator (800) 248-4286 Cox Communications (661) 327-0821 MasterCrd ATM (800) 424-7787 820 22nd Street VISA Plus System (800) 843-7587 SBC Residential Phone, att.sbc.com (800) 310-2355 Lost or Stolen Credit Cards Gas & Electricity American Express (800) 233-5432 Pacific Gas & Electric Co (661) 398-5894 AT&T Universal Card (800) 423-4343 4101 Wible Rd Water Diners Club (800) 234-6377 California Water Services (661) 837-7200 Discover Card (800) 347-2683 3725 South H Street JCB (800) 736-8111 [email protected] MasterCard (800) 826-2181 VISA (800) 336-8472 Visitor Information Greater Bakersfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (866) 425-7353 Lost or Stolen Travelers Checks 515 Truxtun Ave American Express (800) 221-7282 Thomas Cook MasterCard (800) 223-7373 Travelers Check Customer Service (800) 645-6556 VISA (800) 227-6811
VOTER REGISTRATION
It is important to note that if you are registering to vote for the first When you have your new address, complete a DMV change of time, changing your name or political party, or have moved to a new address form, and the Secretary of State (SOS) Elections Division county, you must also complete a Voter Registration form to update will be notified of your address change. You can download the DMV the SOS Elections Division database. Give your completed Voter Change of Address form DMV 14, or you may request a change of Registration form to a technician, and DMV will mail it to the SOS address form by calling your local DMV office at 1 (800) 777-0133. Elections Division office for updating. Even if you are not conducting business with DMV, you may pick When applying for or renewing your driver license or identification up Voter Registration forms at any DMV office. Compete the form card at any DMV office, you have the opportunity of registering to and mail it to the SOS Elections Division preprinted address on the vote. form.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 13 TRAVEL INFORMATION
Airport Airlines - International Meadows Field Airport (661) 391-1800 Aer Lingus (866) 886 8844 3701 Wings Way Aeroflot (650) 615-9278 www.meadowsfield.com Aeromexico (800) 237-6639 Meadows Field Airport has many options for ground Air Canada (800) 247-2262 transportation on arriving to or departing from Kern County. Air China (800) 986-1985 Located 7 miles from downtown Bakersfield. Air France (800) 237-2747 Short-Term Parking Air India, www.airindia.com Short-term parking available for picking up or dropping off Air Jamaica (800) 523-5585 passengers. This parking is conveniently located near the terminal Air New Zealand (800) 262-1234 entrance. Short-term parking rates are $0.75 for each 20 minutes Alaska Airlines (800) 426-0333 with a maximum of $8.50 per day. Alitalia (800) 223-5730 Long-Term Parking Asiana (800) 227-9262 Long-term parking available within easy walking distance of British Airways (800) 247-9297 terminal entrance. Long-term parking rates are $1.25 per hour with Cathay Pacific Airways (800) 233-2742 a maximum of $6.50 per day and a $39.00 maximum per week. China Airlines (800) 227-5118 Los Angeles International Airport (310) 646-4265 China Eastern Airlines (800) 200-5118 1 World Way Egypt Air (800) 334-6787 Los Angeles, CA 90045 Eva Airways (800) 695-1188 The closest international airport is LAX, in Los Angeles, California Japan Airlines (800) 525-3663 (101.5 miles away). KLM Airlines (800) 374-7747 Korean Air (800) 438-5000 Airlines - Domestic LACSA (800) 225-2272 Alaska Airlines (800) 252-7522 LOT Polish (800) 223-0593 Aloha Airlines (800) 367-5250 Lufthansa (800) 645-3880 American Airlines (800) 433-7300 Mexicana (800) 531-7821 American Trans Air (800) 435-9282 Philippine Airlines (800) 435-9725 Continental Airlines* (800) 525-0280 Singapore Airlines (800) 742-3333 Delta Airlines * (800) 221-1212 Skyservice USA (877) 485-6060 Frontier Airlines (800) 432-1359 Swissair (800) 221-4750 Hawaiian Airlines (800) 367-5320 TACA (800) 535-8780 jetBlue Airlines (800) 538-2583 USA 3000 Y Airlines (800) 872-3000 Midwest Express (800) 452-2022 Northwest (800) 225-2525 Cruises/Resorts Skywest/Delta (800) 453-9417 Disney World Reservations (800) 227-1500 Southwest Airlines (800) 435-9792 Holland America Cruises (800) 426-0327 Spirit Airlines (800) 772-7117 Princess Cruises (800) 774-6237 United Airlines* (800) 864-8331 Royal Caribbean Intl. (800) 327-6700 US Airways* (800) 428-4322 *Denotes service to Meadows Field
14 ] Bakersfield Information Guide TRAVEL INFORMATION
Hotels/Motels Inter-City Transportation Best Western (800) 528-1234 Amtrak, www.amtrak.com (800) 872-7245 (USA-RAIL) Budgetel Inns (800) 428-3438 Bakersfield, CA (BFD) Clarion Hotels (800) 424-6423 601 Truxtun Ave Off Truxtun Ave and S Street Comfort Inns (800) 424-6423 Bakersfield, CA 93301 Courtyard by Marriott (800) 321-2211 An efficient transportation infrastructure provides a selection of Days Inn (800) 329-7466 options for days when you don’t have time to enjoy the leisurely, Doubletree Hotels (800) 222-8733 scenic drives in your own car. The local rail service makes four Econo Lodges (800) 446-4777 round-trips daily to San Francisco Bay Area cities, as well as other Embassy Suites (800) 362-2779 nearby destinations. Airlines like America West and United Express Fairmont Hotels (800) 527-4727 service the local Meadow Fields Airport, with direct flights to several Four Seasons (800) 332-3442 major cities. The Airport Bus of Bakersfield offers an inexpensive Hilton Hotels (800) 445-8667 and carefree trip to the Los Angeles International Airport several Holiday Inns (800) 465-4329 times a day. Bakersfield is a warm, friendly community rich in Howard Johnson Motor Lodges (800) 654-2000 history, nature and culture. Become one of the happy residents of Hyatt Hotels (800) 233-1234 this town today and you will only regret not having done it sooner. La Quinta Motor Inn (800) 531-5900 Greyhound Bus (559) 268-1829 Loews Hotels (800) 223-6397 Marriott Hotels (800) 228-9290 Rental Cars Advantage, www.arac.com (800) 777-5500 Meridien Hotels (800) 543-4390 Alamo, www.alamo.com (800) 468-5266 Omni International (800) 843-6664 Avis, www.avis.com* (800) 331-1212 Quality Inns (800) 228-5151 Budget, www.budget.com* (800) 527-0700 Radisson Hotels International (800) 333-3333 Eneteprise, www.eneteprise.com (800) 468-5266 Ramada Inns (800) 228-2828 Hertz, www.hertz.com* (800) 654-3131 Red Roof Inns (800) 843-7663 National, www.nationalcar.com* (800) 227-7368 Ritz Carlton Hotels (800) 241-3333 Thrifty, www.thrifty.com (800) 367-2277 Sheraton Hotels (800) 325-3535 Stouffer Hotels (800) 468-3571 *Conveniently located inside the terminal building Super 8 Motels (800) 800-8000 Taxi TraveLodge Motels (800) 578-7878 If you require a taxi for ground transportation, 2 choices provide Westin Hotels (800) 228-3000 24-hour service. You may call ahead to arrange pick-up or call them when you arrive. American Cab (661) 398-9000 Yellow Cab (661) 325-5041
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 15 DRIVER’S LICENSE
If you take a job here or become a resident, you must get a • Have your picture taken California driver’s license within 10 days. Residency is established • Provide your social security number. It will be verified with the by voting in a California election, paying resident tuition, filing for a Social Security Administration while you are in the office. homeowner’s property tax exemption, or any other privilege or • Verify your birth date and legal presence benefit not ordinarily extended to nonresidents. • Provide your true full name To apply for an original driver’s license if you are over 18, you will • Pay the application fee need to do the following: • Pass a vision exam • Visit a DMV office • Pass a traffic laws and sign test. There are 36 questions on the • Complete application form DL 44 (An original DL 44 form must be test. You have three chances to pass. submitted. Copies will not be accepted.) • Give a thumb print
VEHICLE REGISTRATION
A nonresident vehicle is one that was last registered outside the Fees must be paid within 20 days of entry or residency to avoid state of California (in another state, country, province, territory, etc.). penalties. The fees due depend on a variety of factors and are Anyone who brings a vehicle into California or purchases a determined by your application. The types of fees which may be nonresident vehicle while in California should be aware of the collected are: registration requirements. Registration Fees The following is required to register a vehicle: Vehicle License Fee (VLF)-Based on the value of your vehicle as determined by the Certificate of Cost or Bill of Sale. • An Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) signed by all registered owners, showing the name and address of the lien Use Tax If a vehicle is purchased outside of California and holder. brought into California within 365 days of purchase, use tax is due. Credit may be given for use tax paid to other states. If a credit is due • Last issued registration certificate, if the applicant is the same as it cannot exceed the California tax that is due. For further the registered owner shown on the out-of-state title and the information or if you feel that you have paid use tax that was not due vehicle entered California with valid out-of-state registration, or if contact the nearest Board of Equalization office or visit the title has been lost. www.boe.ca.gov. • A Bill of Sale, Vehicle/ Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form Reflectorized License Plate Fee (REG 262), if you purchased the vehicle from someone other than the registered owner shown on the title. California Highway Patrol CVRA Fee • Odometer disclosure statement on the REG 262, signed by the California Highway Patrol Fee seller and buyer, if the vehicle is less than ten model years old. County Fees Collected at the request of your California county of • A vehicle verification. The vehicle must be inspected by an residence for special programs. authorized DMV employee, law enforcement officer, or a licensed Service Fee Nonresident Service Fee if there is evidence that your vehicle verifier employed by a registration service or dealership. vehicle was last registered out-of-state These inspections require no additional fee and are most easily obtained by bringing the vehicle to the nearest DMV.
16 ] Bakersfield Information Guide LOCAL HOTELS
Best Value Inn Extended Stay Motel 6 818 Real Rd. 3318 California Ave. East 8223 E. Brundage Ln. (661) 324-6666 (661) 322-6888 (661) 366-7231 North 5241 Olive Tree Ct. Best Western Crystal Palace EZ-8 Motel (661) 392-9700 2620 Buck Owens Blvd. 5200 Olive Tree Ct. South 2727 White Ln. (661) 327-9651 (661) 392-1151 (661) 834-8282 700 Truxtun Ave. 2604 Buck Owens Blvd. West 1350 Easton Dr. (661) 327-4064 (661) 322-1901 (661) 327-1686
California Inn Four Points Hotel Sheraton Quality Inn 3400 Chester Lane 5101 California Ave. 1011 Oak St. (661) 328-1100 (661) 325-9700 (661) 325-0772 2514 White Ln. Candlewood Suites Garden Suites Hotel (661) 833-8000 3600 Chester Lane 2310 Wible Rd. (661) 328-8181 (661) 833-6066 Ramada Suites 828 Real Rd. Clarion Hotel Hampton Inn (661) 322-9988 3540 Rosedale Hwy. 1017 Oak St. (661) 326-1111 (661) 633-0333 Red Lion Hotel 2400 Camino Del Rio Comfort Inn Hilton Garden Inn (661) 327-0681 3620 Wible Rd. 3625 S Marriott Drive (661) 833-1000 (661) 716-1000 Residence Inn by Marriott 4241 Chester Ln. Comfort Suites Holiday Inn Express (661) 321-9800 3115 Camino Del Rio Court 4400 Hughes Ln. (661) 325-8000 (661) 833-3000 Rio Bravo Resort 11200 Lake Ming Rd. Courtyard by Marriott Holiday Inn Select (661) 872-5000 3601 Marriott Dr. 801 Truxtun Ave. (661) 324-6660 (661) 323-1900 Road Runner Motel 2619 Buck Owens Blvd. Days Inn & Suites Homewood Suites (661) 834-7184 4500 Buck Owens Blvd. 1505 Mill Rockway (661) 822-3050 (661) 664-0400 Royal Oak Inn 889 Oak St. Doubletree Hotel Bakersfield Howard Johnson's (661) 324-9698 3100 Camino Del Rio Crt. 2700 White Ln. (661) 323-7111 (661) 396-1425 Super 8 Motels 901 Real Rd. Downtown Inn La Quinta Inn (661) 322-1012 1301 Chester Ave. 3232 Riverside Dr. (661) 327-7122 (661) 325-7400 Vagabond Inn 6100 Knudsen Rd. Econo Lodge (661) 392-1800 350 Oak St. (661) 553-2666 6501 Colony St. (661) 831-9200
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 17 THINGS TO DO
Performing Arts Shopping BAKERSFIELD MUSIC THEATRE (661) 325-6100 Easy Hills Mall (661) 872-7993 1931 Chester Avenue 3000 Mall View Road Bakersfield, CA 93301 Bakersfield, CA 93304 Love the thrill of live theatre? Come visit Bakersfield’s Music You’ll find everything you need for the entire family in a variety of Theatre at the Harvey Auditorium, and enjoy many of your all time specialty stores to choose from. This shopping complex and area is favorites. The music theatre is also the venue of solo performers. home to Gottschalks/Harris, Mervyns, Target, Wal-Mart to name a Also, the recently renovated Stars Theater shines in downtown few. There is also a large United Artist Theater. Bakersfield. Come by for a live performance, dinner and a cocktail The Marketplce in the intimate surroundings. 9000 Ming Avenue BAKERSFIELD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (661) 323-7928 Bakersfield, CA Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center The Marketplace offers quaint eating establishments in the midst 1001 Truxtun Avenue of a diverse shopping experience. Movie goers will appreciate Bakersfield, CA 93301 Edwards Cinema Multiplex Theater. Music lovers can enjoy Celebrating its seventieth year, the Bakersfield Symphony “Concerts By The Fountain” every Thursday evening throughout the Orchestra presents a six concert series beginning each November summer. that is the core of its performance schedule. Other musical delights Stockdale Fashion Plaza (661) 832-3124 are the Young People’s Concerts, and musical affiliations with the 4713 Stockdale Highway Bakersfield Masterworks Chorale, Bakersfield Youth Symphony, Bakersfield, CA 93309 Civic Dance Center and the Symphony Singers. The outdoor mall includes 24 stores for your shopping BUCK OWENS’ CRYSTAL PALACE (661) 869-2825 experience. If you’re looking for jewelry, clothing, or gourmet dining, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd you’ll find it here. Bakersfield, CA 93308 Valley Plaza (661) 832-2436 The Crystal Palace Steakhouse Take a stroll down the board 2701 Ming Avenue walkways and look in the storefront “windows” at country music Bakersfield CA 93304 star Buck Owens’ memorabilia garnered from a lifetime of www.mallibu.com performing. You’ll be able to “Catch a Tiger by the Tail,” eat Buck’s Bakersfield’s original indoor shopping mall provides a vast array famous biscuits and gravy with your dinner, enjoy live country music of local and national retail and department stores and food court by country’s hottest performers or see Buck Owens and his restaurants. Buckaroos! The Crystal Palace is the place for great family entertainment and dancing! Golden West Casino (661) 324-6936 1001 S. Union Avenue Bakersfield CA 93307 Golden West Casino is the only casino in Bakersfield, but that’s not why they are the best! You’ll find excellent prices on scrumptious meals and a full bar with live music. Enjoy no-bust Blackjack and a variety of Poker games 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Fox Theater (661)324-1369 2001 H Street Bakersfield, CA 93301 Enjoy musical performances, vintage movies, dance performances and more at the restored Fox Theater. This historic landmark was built in 1930 and shines brightly since being brought back to life by a dedicated group of theatre lovers. Visit to see what a grand show house the Fox Theater is.
18 ] Bakersfield Information Guide THINGS TO DO
Sports Button Willow Raceway Park (661) 764-5333 Blaze Baseball (661) 322-1363 24551 Lerdo Highway Sam Lynn Ballpark Buttonwillow, CA 93206 North Chester Avenue www.buttonwillowraceway.com See the major league stars of tomorrow while enjoying a friendly, Kern County’s newest motor sports complex features road family atmosphere. racing with open-wheel formula cars, sports cars, motorcycles, vintage cars, movie and television production and a full concession Bakersfield Blitz ArenaFOOTBALL (661) 716-BLITZ Rabobank Arena service. Learn safe driving and car control on Buttonwillow’s 1001 Truxtun Avenue Challenging Race Track. Our instructors will take you through a Bakersfield, CA 93301 short ground school session focusing on safety & performance www.bakersfieldblitz.com driving techniques, including car control, braking skills and skid Bakersfield Blitz Football Arena football at it’s best in Bakersfield! recovery. The season runs April thru August. The team was the 2002 Auto Club Famoso Raceway (661) 399-2210 conference champs. 33559 Famosa Rd Condors Hockey (661) 324-7825 McFarland, CA 93250 Rabobank Arena www.famosoraceway.com 1001 Truxtun Avenue Famoso Raceway is an NHRA sanctioned 1/4 mile drag strip. Bakersfield, CA 93301 This raceway is home to the March Meet, known as the largest www.bakersfieldcondors.com nostalgia event in the world, the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion Check out the Condors as they challenge the rest of the ECHL and AHDRA- All Harley Drags and the NHRA Pacific Division Lucas for the Kelly Cup. The season runs from October through April. Oil Drag Racing Series event. CSUB Roadruners Athletics (661)654-3865 www.gorunners.com NCAA Division II athletics program competing in the California Collegiate Athletics Association. The Roadrunners compete at the Division I level for wrestling in the Pac-10 Conference and Women's Water Polo in the Western Women's Water Polo Association.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 19 MEDIA
Newspaper AM Radio The Bakersfield Californian (661) 395-7500 550 KUZZ country 1707 Eye Street 800 KDFO regional Mexican Bakersfield, CA 93301 970 KGET oldies www.bakersfield.com 1010 KCHJ ranchera/norteno (oldies) The Bakersfield Californian is an independent, family-owned 1050 KJPG religious newspaper. 1100 KAFY regional Mexican The Blackboard Free Press (661) 328-1775 1140 KQAB news/talk P.O. Box 1197 1180 KERI religious Bakersfield, CA 93302-1197 www.theblackboardfreepress.com 1230 KGEO news/talk 1350 KLHC religious-español Bakersfield and Kern County's free press newspaper, your local 1410 KERN news/talk guide to news, arts and culture 1490 KWAC sports-español Local Television 1560 KNZR news/talk 4 Telefutura 11 Telemundo FM Radio 17 NBC 88.3 KAXL contemporary Christian 18 Multimedios 89.1 KPRX public/classical 21 TBN 89.5 KGLV contemporary Christian 23 ABC 90.1 KTQX public-español 25 NBC 90.9 KGZO religious-español 29 CBS 91.3 KFRB religious 33 DT CBS 92.1 KPSL CHR-español 34 ACN 92.5 KMYX ac-español 36 HSN 93.1 KKXX adult hits 39 UNI 94.1 KISV CHR-rhythmic 42 Azteca America 95.3 KLLY modern ac 45 MyTv 96.5 KBKO country 52 Telefutura 96.9 KEBT urban 55 CW 97.7 KSMJ soft ac 58 FOX 98.5 KDFO classic rock 65 PBS 99.3 KKBB rhythmic oldies 67 PBS/CAS 101.5 KGFM soft ac 102.1 KZPE standards 102.5 KCNQ country 102.9 KIWI regional Mexican 103.5 KRHM community 103.9 KBDS CHR-rhythmic 104.5 KVLI oldies 105.3 KKDJ oldies-español 106.1 KRAB active rock 106.5 KEAL new 107.1 KCWR country 107.9 KUZZ country
20 ] Bakersfield Information Guide
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 21 MOVING
SMOOTH TRANSITIONS
Choosing a Moving Company Have at least three movers come to your home and give estimates. Be sure to ask whether the estimates are binding, non-binding or guaranteed not to exceed a certain amount. Obtain each company’s assigned Motor Carrier number and call the USDOT at (202) 358-7000 to determine if they are registered and have the proper insurance on file. Ask your prospective moving company for a copy of the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. Relocation to Your New City If you’re one of the 40 million Americans planning to move this year, you need a strategy. Starting early and staying organized is the key to a painless move. In general, follow the pre- move checklists provided. These lists will help you track the myriad details needed to facilitate your move. If you are selling your present home and/or buying a new one, refer to the home inspection checklist and the mortgage glossary. If you are planning to rent in your new city, read the article on rental tips. And, if you are undecided, we hope the article entitled “Buying vs. Renting” will help you assess the pros and cons of each. Whatever decisions you face based on your particular circumstances, stay positive, calm and organized. And, don’t forget to make some time just for yourself. It will probably save you a lot of time in the long run! Packing Tips • Sort your belongings. If you don’t use an item, dispose of it. • Label boxes indicating what they contain and in which room they should be placed. • Drain gas and oil from power tools so they will not leak; dispose of all volatile or corrosive chemicals. • After cleaning out the refrigerator and/or freezer, place pieces of charcoal in them to prevent mildew. • Pack important records in easily accessible place. Include medical, dental, school, insurance, credit card and tax records. • Use strong, clean containers with lids secured with twine or tape. • Put no more than 50 pounds in each container. • Place heavy items towards the bottom of the containers; lighter items on top. • Protect all finished surfaces from scratching by wrapping them in paper. • Use plenty of cushioning such as shredded or crumpled paper to protect belongings in boxes. Remember that newspaper ink can rub off and stain items packed with it. • Pack items tightly to avoid shifting during move. • Fragile items, like china, should be packed in reinforced boxes or in special boxes with compartments. • Individually wrap and cushion electrical appliances. • Make sure liquids and foodstuffs are placed in carefully sealed containers. Wrap and pack kitchenware tightly to prevent damage.
22 ] Bakersfield Information Guide SMOOTH TRANSITIONS
• Chests and dressers should not be overloaded since glued where these boxes go. This way, movers will be directed to the furniture joints could collapse. correct rooms if you’re not available to tell them where to put • Unusually shaped or valuable items should be crated or moved each box. by you and not the movers. Easily crushed items should be • Make a detailed floor plan for where you want things to go in your individually boxed and cushioned. new home. Photocopy it so you can tack up copies in every room You should not remove home fixtures such as window treatment for the movers. hardware, towel racks and electrical fixtures. Unless your sales • Take snapshots of wall units and shelves, so you know how agreement specifically states otherwise, such items are usually things were arranged on them. considered legally part of your residence.Let the moving company Settling Into Your New Home pack furniture, mirrors and artwork to prevent damage. • Start by making the beds. Bedding tends to be bulky and Stay Organized eliminating lots of boxes quickly and easily will be encouraging. Here are some basic tips to help make moving less traumatic: • Unpack and organize children’s belonging’s next. Young children • Pack an “Immediate Box” or an overnight suitcase with the will quickly become restless without familiar things. Remember to necessities you’ll be needing right away. Don’t forget to include position storage hooks and shelves that children will be using medicines and a first aid kit, toilet paper, tissue, and paper within their reach. towels. • Next, tackle the kitchen. This job will go much faster if each box • Pack an “Immediate Kitchen” box including trash bags, the has been specifically labeled as to its contents. Simply labeling coffee pot or tea kettle, toaster, plastic silverware, paper plates, “Kitchen” doesn’t help you prioritize which box to unpack first. styrofoam cups and some non-perishable snacks, such as crackers, peanut butter, dried fruit. This way, there will be some • Stay positive. Getting settled into your new home can seem instant sustenance while you get organized. overwhelming unless you look at it as a series of small projects. • Affix colored labels to the moving boxes according to destination. • Congratulate yourself! You accomplished a lot today! Put the same-color labels or signs on the door of the rooms
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 23 WHAT’S ALL THE TALK ABOUT. YOU PACK, THEY DRIVE MOVING?
Moving Decisions Save Time and Money Are you faced with an upcoming job relocation? With so many The “you pack, they drive” moving alternative saves you the options for moving your household items, it can be a difficult trouble of driving an unfamiliar vehicle as well as the stress and decision to determine which service best fits your moving needs. difficulty during a long-distance drive. Since the estimates provided Also, with a limited relocation budget from your employer to cover for this service are based on volume (space) and not weight, you will your moving costs, finding a service that complements your avoid unexpected higher moving costs and hidden fees associated pocketbook is important as well. While hiring a professional moving with other full-service moving companies. Unlike a rental truck, the company may be time-saving, the cost for full-service moving could normal moving expenses such as fuel, taxes, tolls, and unexpected be several thousand dollars. A recent trend in the moving industry costs such as flat tires and engine blowouts are covered by the is the do-it-yourself moving option. Most people associate do-it- service provider. yourself with the truck rental option; however, the “you pack, they Loading Service Options drive” moving alternative is becoming increasingly popular. The cost savings of using the “you pack, they drive” service New Moving Alternative largely result from packing and loading your trailer. Some customers With this type of service, you are expected to pack and load your may not have the physical ability or manpower to pack and load items in an adequately-sized commercial trailer. You are given up to their own trailer. This problem is relatively easy to solve—simply two business days to pack and load your goods. The cost of the check with one of the packing and loading companies suggested move is controlled by the customer because this service allows you by the “you pack, they drive” service provider. You can locate to pay for only the spaced used in the trailer. Once you have packing and loading assistance in both your origin and destination completed the packing and loading process, the trailer is picked up cities. By combining the “you pack, they drive” service with local by the local dispatch office. The trailer is then transported by a loading and unloading assistance, you can save money versus professional driver to your destination. You will receive an estimated using a full-service moving company. arrival time for delivery of your goods and will also have the ability to The Choice is Yours track your goods during the transit of your move. Upon arrival at During your search for the best moving option for your upcoming your new home, the trailer is delivered at the appointed time and job relocation, consider the “you pack, they drive” moving option you will unpack and unload your goods. The local dispatch office and know that you are in control of every aspect of your move. You will then come and remove the empty trailer. will not only save time and money, you will experience less stress and headache during an already stressful part of your life.
24 ] Bakersfield Information Guide Bakersfield Information Guide [ 25 PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST
One Month Before Two Weeks Before
Take Inventory. Decide what to keep and what to get rid of. Notify Phone Company: Your new local phone company should be notified of your move no sooner than 30 business Reserve a rental truck or select a moving company. Look for days prior to move, and no later than 5 business days before rental trucks and moving companies in local brochures, yellow moving. The service representative will run a quick credit check pages, or through your rental agent/ real estate broker. and assign you a new telephone number. Make a moving file for important documents, such as family Notify Utilities: The electric and gas service companies should medical and dental records, school records, legal documents be contacted at least two weeks before your move. The old and titles, banking and financial statements, stock and bond service will need your move out date and you should request certificates, tax returns, birth certificates and insurance the return of any deposits at this time. The new service will documents. Include all receipts – many expenses are tax need your move in date to determine when service will be deductible. turned on or transferred to your name. You can inquire if they Make any car rental, airline or hotel arrangements. have a billing plan to balance out of season differences by paying a set amount each month. If moving into an apartment, Gather moving supplies such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap and check with the property manager to see if service was left on paper for wrapping. before you call the utility companies. Write down the emergency numbers to call in event of a problem or outage. Post Office: A week before you move, you should stop by your local post office to fill out a change of address cards. Banks: (checking accounts, investments, etc.): Before you Correspondence cards are also available to send to various move to your new city, make sure all existing accounts in your companies such as credit card companies, magazine old bank are closed. Find a new bank to fill your personal publishers and any other organizations that should be needs and open accounts, order checks and obtain direct informed of your move. The mail will be forwarded to your new deposit forms if applicable. home for a full year. After a year, the mail will be returned to the sender with your new address stamped on it. You can get an Find a new doctor and dentist and have your family’s medical official change form at the local post office or on the Internet at records transferred to them. www.usps.gov/movernet. Refill any prescription medications which must be taken Credit Card Companies: Immediately notify all your credit card regularly and arrange to have those prescriptions transferred to companies of your move. Keeping an individual file on each your new city. one makes this process much easier. We suggest using the Arrange to register your children in their new school(s). Contact correspondence cards offered at the post office in addition to their current school(s) to have their records forwarded. requesting in writing that they send you a letter of confirmation. It is also recommended to make a follow up call.
Purchase Insurance: If you are moving from out of state and are insured by a fairly large company, they will most likely have an office in the city you are moving to. If you need to find a new company, it is important to get homeowners insurance at least one month before the move. Those moving to an apartment need to contact the insurance company two weeks before the move. If you have large amounts of jewelry and/or furs coats it’s important to contact the agency as soon as possible since you will be needing additional coverage.
Remember to request the return of any security deposits.
26 ] Bakersfield Information Guide PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST
One Week Before Moving Day
Confirm any travel plans or reservations. Early on moving day, reserve a large place for the moving truck to park. Mark off an area with cones or chairs. If you need to Finish packing and make sure all boxes are clearly labeled. obtain parking permission from your apartment complex Subscribe to the local newspaper and visit the Chamber of manager or the city, do so in advance. Commerce in your new city for additional community Before work starts, walk through the house with the movers information. and describe the loading order. Show them items you intend to Change of Address Notification: You will need to notify the transport yourself. You should have these items grouped in an Postal Service that you are moving. It is now possible to do so area prior to the movers arriving. Remain on site to answer the without visiting the post office. Go to website listed above. For movers’ questions and to provide special instructions. the fee of $1.00 you may fill out the address change Walk through your home and make sure that everything was information online and receive an email confirmation. Or you loaded. Make sure you have the keys to your new home. may choose to print the form and mail it to your local post office. US Postal Service, www.usps.com Remember that professional movers expect to be paid in full before your goods are unloaded. Check for damage, as items Notify IRS: You will also need to notify the IRS that you have are unloaded and report any problems right away. moved. This will ensure you receive your IRS refund and/or any other correspondence. To change your address with the IRS, Unless the company’s policy prohibits the acceptance of complete a Form 8822 (PDF), Address Change Request. This gratuities, it is customary to tip each mover. $20 is a good is available on the IRS website. IRS, www.irs.gov amount; you may want to tip more or less based on the service you received. One Day Before If you are moving yourself and getting help from friends, make sure you create a task list. Be sure to have everything packed Pick up your rental truck or confirm your move with the moving before your help arrives. It is natural for people to work in pairs, company. but you should consider each person’s physical ability and Make sure you and your movers have the directions to your health status. Plan to provide beverages and food for your new home. Plan your travel so that you will be there to greet volunteers. Load the truck according to the directions your them and unlock your home. Have a backup plan in case one truck rental agency gave you, and make sure that you of you gets delayed. understand how to operate and drive the rental truck before you leave the agency. Obtain the driver’s cell phone number and give him/her yours so you can stay in touch in case one of you is delayed.
Ask what form of payment the movers will accept (check, money order, certified check, travelers checks) and make necessary arrangements.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 27 28 ] Bakersfield Information Guide MOVING WITH CHILDREN AND PETS
REINFORCE THE POSITIVES
et family members focused on and involved in the process of moving. Hold a family meeting to discuss why, where, when and how the family will move. Encourage Geveryone to ask questions and express feelings. If possible, drive the family to see the new home and take a tour of the new neighborhood schools, shops and parks. Take photos or videotape the new house and neighborhood. Make lists for each older child of things to do to prepare for the move and assign them a special task or two. For example, they can read and inform other family members about the area history, landmarks, special events and amusements. Help children prepare for the move by having them assist with packing. Let them pack a box of special clothes, toys or books they would like readily accessible at their new home. Let each family member help plan how to set up his or her bedroom. Have them help select paint or wallpaper. Let them share ideas how to arrange the furniture. When the move takes place, set up the children’s rooms first. Choosing a School One of the most satisfying experiences a family can have is finding a school that fits its needs. That school will “feel right” because its administrators, teachers, and parents are part of a strong community that shares the family’s educational values. Children are eager to go there because the school program stimulates their curiosity and provides them with outlets for their interests. Parents will be pleased because their involvement in their children’s education will be welcomed and encouraged. In order to find the best school for your child, you should begin by observing your child’s learning habits. Even as preschoolers, children begin to develop different approaches to learning. These inclinations provide strong clues about what kind of school would serve them best. In her book Your Child’s First School, educational consultant Diana Townsend- Butterworth offers these suggestions of things to watch for in determining your child’s orientation to learning: • What does your child enjoy doing? • What excites your child and arouses his or her curiosity? • What seems to be frustrating? • Does your child thrive in a structured environment or seem to prefer one that offers more freedom? • Is your child quiet or rambunctious? • Does he or she prefer to work on projects alone or with other children? • Does he or she have any special interests or abilities?
Make a list of answers to these questions as well as taking note of any other characteristics you notice about your child. As you read more about individual schools, and when you visit the ones that interest you, you will be better able to choose a school that suits your child.
continued on page 30
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 29 REINFORCE THE POSITIVES
Kern County Office of Education (661) 636-4000 Before beginning a search for a school, parents should reflect on 1300 17th St. City Centre these questions, and their expectations for schools. Parents who Bakersfield, CA 93301 choose schools wisely are pleased after their children enroll www.kern.org because the family and the school work in harmony with a common For high school, parents often choose a new school for their set of expectations for the youngsters. Admissions directors at children. This is frequently because their current school goes only schools will gladly connect you with parents of current students so through eight grade. As you look for a high school, consider your you can make an informed choice for your child. child’s learning style as well as his or her interests when deciding Most schools believe parents should have a strong role in their upon a school. Also keep in mind your own family goals, which may children’s education. Being involved in a child’s education involve preparing for college, in making this important choice. strengthens the whole family and sends a message to children that What about family expectations? In order to provide a good education is an important part of their lives. Schools know that the match, a child’s school must also meet a family’s needs. Here again, way in which parents choose to become active in their children’s you may want to prepare a list of expectations and use it as a guide schools varies greatly. They provide many different opportunities for in the search for the best school for your child: parental involvement. Most schools have strong parent associations • What goal do you have for your child’s long-term education? Is that organize social events, help coordinate volunteer activitied, and college preparation a priority? provide an organizes means of communication between parents and school. • How important to you is parental involvement in school activities? Each of these encounters strengthens the life of the schools and • Do you expect the school to have a role in developing a child’s creates a community of committed adults supporting the goals of character by encouraging respect for adults and peers as well as the schools and the students. This feeling of community, with adults others in society, including the disadvantaged? and students working together for a common purpose, is one of the • How important is it to you that you have a strong relationship and distinguishing strengths of a good schools. share a philosophy with other parents at the school? When you’re new to a community, locating a person or program • How interested are you in providing a home setting that gives to provide child care for you is not the easiest of tasks. Due to your child time for homework? expanding demand, just finding an opening can be difficult. • How important to you is a before-school and after-school Pinpointing a place that is not too far or too expensive and, most program? importantly, a provider whom you trust, may take days or weeks of persistent phoning and visits.
SELECTING CHILD CARE
When you’re new to a community, locating a person or program In home to provide child care for you is not the easiest of tasks. Due to Some parents may prefer the one-on-one contact an in-home expanding demand, just finding an opening may be difficult. care provider can offer, especially for an infant. The International Pinpointing a place that is not too far or too expensive and, most Nanny Association (INA) recommends that you interview any importantly, a provider whom you trust, may take days or weeks of prospective hire at least twice and that you conduct a criminal persistent phoning and visits. background check, which is usually done by most placement As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child is agencies. safe and happy in a child care environment that is fun, educational, One key to good child care is whether the caregiver can adapt to and nurturing. You will need to consider many questions. But you the needs of each child and family. Not all children of the same age are not alone — an increasing number of parents rely on quality are at the same level of development; each child has unique child care so that they may work. About 70% of parents place their character traits. A good caregiver understands these personal and young children in some type of daily care. Knowing in advance that developmental differences and creates a program to meet each this is not an overnight process makes it a bit less overwhelming. child’s needs. Types of Child Care Center-Based Care You might like the home-like feel of a family child care home, or The most popular type because there are so many options for maybe you want your child to have opportunity to socialize with children of all ages. You take your child to a place that is organized peers in a larger child care center. You might be looking for after and staffed specifically to care for a group or groups of children. school care for your child, a summer camp experience or a program Some types include day care centers, preschool programs, that can accommodate his or her special needs. It will help you in before/after school programs. your search to learn more about each type of child care setting.
30 ] Bakersfield Information Guide SELECTING CHILD CARE
Day Care Center Preparing Your Child for Child Care If you’re considering a day care center or another group setting, Most young infants, up to seven months, adapt to caring adults you should spend some time observing the center and talking to and seldom have problems adjusting to good child care. Older parents with children in the center. You should also expect that your infants may be upset when left with strangers. They may feel child will be assigned to the same caregiver to promote a sense of separation anxiety, which is a normal part of development for some security and consistency. Inquire about the rate of staff resignations; children. They will need extra time and your support to “get to low staff turnover minimizes the need for young children to know” the caregiver. Some children show changes in behavior repeatedly adjust to new caregivers. when they start child care. Toddlers may cry, pout, refuse to go to Preschool Programs or act angry in other ways. Preschoolers may regress and behave Preschool programs are offered through Head Start, child care like a younger child. They may be more wakeful at night. This centers or local public and private schools. They can be offered as behavior usually goes away after a few days or weeks in high-quality a half-day program for three or four days a week or they can be part child care, just be sure to monitor. of a full day program at a child care center. You may help your child adjust to a new child care arrangement. Before/After School Programs Arrange a visit with in-home caregivers while you are at home or These programs give children additional time and opportunity to when you need child care for a short time. Visit the center or family engage in hands-on enrichment activities in reading, science, math, child care home that you have chosen with your child before art, drama, and specific “safety” topics that include conflict beginning care. Show your child that you like and trust the caregiver. resolution and drug abuse. Most programs offer homework Some children like to carry a reminder of home when they go to assistance and some offer tutoring. Most also provide supervised child care. A family photograph or small toy can be helpful. Talking physical activity and healthy snacks, or even dinner. School age to your child about child care and the caregiver is helpful. Being programs are often provided through local schools, child care prepared makes any new experience easier for children. There also centers, churches, or youth-oriented community organizations. are storybooks about child care that you and your child can read Quality features include opportunities for children to make individual together. (Check with your local library, another great outing for a and group choices about activities, opportunity to improve parent and child) academic skills, spaces for children to relax and rest, well After a child has been in child care, a sudden change in supervised spaces where they can be active, nutritious snacks, and caregivers may be upsetting. This can happen even if the new parental involvement. caregiver is kind and competent. If you are concerned about your Choosing Child Care child's feelings, you may want to arrange a meeting with the In addition to the forms of child care, you want to take into caregiver or ask your pediatrician for advice. Parents need to help account the following factors: the caregivers and the child deal with any changes in the child's • Age and personality of your child. routine at home or child care. High-quality child care helps children • Child care needs of all the children in your family. grow in every way and promotes their physical, social and mental • Location of your workplace, home and child care facility. development. It offers support to working parents. Your pediatrician • Hours you need child care. wants your child to grow and develop with enjoyment in a setting • What you can afford. that supports you as a parent. When you begin your search, start with the telephone. Plan to In the final analysis, locating a child care provider with whom you spend a few minutes with each call. Describe your needs and ask are confident is well worth the searching. Why? Your child benefits about the program, staff, location, other children in care, and what greatly from such an arrangement, meeting and interacting with is included in the cost. Make an appointment and visit the center, other children and adults. The child learns and grows from school or home, and plan on spending at least an hour at each experience, often times a major step in establishing independence place. Visit once to observe the children in care and at another time and becoming his or her “own person.” And you feel more at ease outside of regular structured hours to spend time with provider or leaving them. director. For more information you may want to visit the following website: In any group center, health, safety, and hygiene must be given American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org priority in all settings. All children and staff members should have current immunizations; staff should have clear criminal background checks. The facility must be child-proof and all staff members should wear disposable gloves when changing diapers. Toys should be disinfected on a regular basis and frequent hand washing should be promoted among the staff and children to minimize the spread of infection.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 31 TYPES OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Community Colleges Online Learning Community colleges exist for two major purposes. The first is to Recent years have witnessed the rise of online degree programs, serve as a bridge from high school to college by providing courses to allow the busy professional a chance to work at their own pace for transfer toward a bachelor’s degree. Four out of 10 college- from the comfort of their home on the path to getting a degree. The bound high-school graduates start their college education this way. costs to students are typically the same as for traditional classes— The second function of community colleges is to prepare and financial aid is equally available—while the cost to the institution students for the job market by offering entry-level career training as can be much less. well as courses for adult students who want to upgrade their skills There are online universities ranging from legitimate distance for the workplace. They often offer programs that are not available learning systems to fly-by-night degree-mills. It’s important to at four-year schools, like fashion design. research a particular institution before deciding to enroll in their Bakersfield Community College (661) 395-4011 system. Generally, brick-and-mortar schools that also offer online 1801 Panorama Dr. classes are the safest, though there are plenty of fully accredited Bakersfield, CA 93305 online universities out there. www.bakersfieldcollege.org Nearly 3 million students are believed to be taking online classes Bakersfield College was founded in 1913 and is one of the at institutions of higher education in the United States this year. That nation's oldest continually-operating community colleges. The number has been growing about 25% a year recently. Now, virtually college serves 15,000 students on the 153-acre main campus and all public higher education institutions, as well as a vast majority of satellite campuses. private, for-profit institutions, now offer online classes. By contrast, Liberal Arts Colleges only about half of private, nonprofit schools offer them. Liberal arts colleges offer a broad base of courses in the Online schools offer everything from Associate’s degrees to humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Most are private and Doctoral programs with available emphases in everything from focus mainly on undergraduate students. Classes tend to be small Business Administration to Criminal Justice to Nursing. Some and personal attention is available. programs require students to attend some campus classes or orientations, but many are delivered completely online. Online courses generally require a computer with a broadband connection, but are now a serious option for the busy professional. Public vs. Private Public colleges are usually less expensive, particularly for in-state residents. They get most of their money from the state or local government. Private colleges rely on tuition, fees, endowments, and other private sources. Private colleges are usually smaller and can offer more personalized attention and often more prestige. Universities Generally, a university is bigger than a college and offers more majors and research facilities. Class size often reflects institutional size and some classes may taught by graduate students. California State University-Bakersfield 9001 Stockdale Hwy Bakersfield, CA 93311-1099 www.csubak.edu California State University Bakersfield opened in 1970 as the 19th member of the 23-campus California State University system. Located on a 375-acre site in metropolitan Bakersfield, the university is comprised of 30 buildings, with an enrollment of over 8,000 students. Upper Division Upper-division schools offer the last two years of undergraduate study, usually in specialized programs leading to a bachelor’s degree. Students then generally transfer to an upper-division college after completing an associate degree or after finishing a second year of study at a four-year college.
32 ] Bakersfield Information Guide DEGREES AND CERTIFICATES
Certificate or Diploma These non-degree offerings generally lead to employment in an Full time value. occupational field. For example, to enter fields such as computer science or teaching, you may first have to get a certificate or diploma. Associate Degree You receive an associate of arts (AA) or associate of science (AS) degree after completing two years of study similar to the first two years of a four-year college. After earning an AA or an AS, you may transfer to a four-year college to complete the requirements for a bachelor’s degree. The associate of applied science (AAS) degree is awarded on completion of technological or vocation programs of study. Bachelor’s or Baccalaureate Degree Complete a four- or five-year, full-time program of study (or its Life-long future. part-time equivalent) at a college. The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) are the most common. Combined Bachelor’s/Graduate Degree (or Joint Degree) Imagine building a future solid enough to last Complete a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or first-professional a lifetime. Our full-time MBA offers you degree in less than the usual amount of time. In most programs, opportunities and perspectives that can change students apply to the graduate program during their first three years your prospects forever. You will gain the vision, of undergraduate study, and begin the graduate program in their knowledge and skills to succeed, along with a fourth year of college. Successful completion results in awarding of network of relationships in the world of business and institutions. both bachelor’s and graduate degrees. These are sometimes referred to as “4 +1” programs. The program is ranked among top interna- Masters Degree tional MBAs and it is the leader in Italy. These signify more specialized training in a particular field. They are competed after the bachelor’s degree, usually over the course It is offered in Milan, where you will enrich of 2 years for the full time student. your professional and personal life enormously. Doctorates These generally signify some significant research in the field, and Highly qualified teachers and classmates from are an upper level degree. all over the world will help you develop an international open mindset within a rigorous, academic framework.
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Bakersfield Information Guide [ 33 PAYING FOR SCHOOL
FAFSA www.fafsa.gov Need-Based FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form Need-based financial aid is awarded on the basis of the financial that must be filled out annually by university to determine their need of the student. The amount of need based aid is generally eligibility for federal financial aid (including grants, loans, and work- based off the criteria on the FAFSA. study programs). In addition, most states and schools use Loans information from the FAFSA to award non-federal aid. While included in the term “financial aid” Higher Education Loans The FAFSA consists of numerous questions regarding the differ from scholarships and grants in that they must be paid back. student’s finances, as well as those of his or her family; these are They come in several varieties in the United States entered into a formula that determines the Expected Family • Federal Student Loans made to students directly: No payments Contribution. The amount of the EFC can vary widely, depending on until after graduation, but amounts are quite limited a number of factors; for example, one such factor is whether a • Federal Student Loans made to parents: Much higher limit, but student has siblings in college at the time. payments start immediately The best place to look for help before you start filling out your • Private Student Loans made to students or parents: Higher limits FAFSA is at your school’s financial aid office. and no payments until after graduation. Other Sources FAFSA only scratches the surface of the money available to Getting Your MBA Part-time students for school. There are many state and private scholarships Getting your MBA may be imperative to you and your career. out there. The easiest way to find listings of what scholarships that More than 40% of all graduate students are working adults, so it is you may qualify for is by going to a scholarship database online and possible to balance the rest of your life with your desire to continue doing a search. Some handy sites for this are: your education. Lunch-money.com You’ll generally spend three to four hours a week with the Finaid.org instructor in a 3-credit class. It’s generally recommended that you spend about 8 additional hours a week studying and preparing for Fastweb.com the next classroom session, so 12-15 hrs a week total. Collegeboard.com So where are you going to find an extra 15 hrs a week? It helps It’s not recommended that you participate in any website that to journal how you do spend your time during the week, and then asks you to pay a fee to search for a scholarship; there are many list priorities. Lower priority items, like watching TV, may take up wonderful free sites available. more time than you realize, and can be shelved so you can continue Types of Financial Aid your education. Financial aid may be classified into two types based on the Re-prioritizing your time is the most crucial step in ensuring you’ll criteria through which the financial aid is awarded: merit-based or have success on your path to your degree. Make sure you discuss need-based. your goals with your boss, friends, and family, so they know what to Merit-Based expect as you add this major commitment to your life. Merit-scholarships are typically awarded for outstanding academic achievements, although some merit scholarships can also be awarded for special talents, leadership potential and other personal characteristics. Merit scholarships are sometimes awarded without regard for the financial need of the applicant. Athletic scholarships are a form of merit aid that takes athletic talent into account.
34 ] Bakersfield Information Guide RELOCATING YOUR PET
Your coffee is finally brewing after what seemed like an endless where the closest veterinarian is located and, of course, he or she search through the boxes left by the moving company. The disk can’t be as good as Dr. Morris…and Prince just loved Dr. Morris. jockey on the radio reads the weather forecast and you learn that it Farfetched? Not really. Pets are probably most overlooked when is 90 degrees outside with an expected high of 110. Welcome to it comes to relocating. Most people just expect their pets to wake your new city, but at least your company gave you a nice raise for up completely adapted to their new surroundings as if nothing relocating. changed. Although this is true for many pets, just as many find Just as you start thinking that everything is proceeding smoothly relocating to be traumatic. Furthermore, most people wait until their and that your new city really does have a lot to offer, you realize pet is ill before finding a new veterinarian. Prince, your four-year old Great Dane, isn’t acting right. Now what? What should you do then for your pet when relocating? Actually Is he really sick? Homesick? What’s worse is that you don’t know the place to begin is in your hometown before you move. Speak to your own veterinarian and tell him/her where you are moving and ask his/her advice. In most cases, this alone will be sufficient to find out what is necessary to prepare your pet for transition. Further, people will be surprised how often their veterinarian can recommend someone in the area where they are moving. Whether or not this person will actually become your new veterinarian is not as important as the peace of mind that the recommendation is from someone you trust. Finally, don’t wait until your pet is ill before looking for a veterinarian. This is an extremely emotional time and nothing can be more traumatic than having to find a veterinarian in the midst of a crisis. It is obvious, then, that you should find a new veterinarian before that first crisis occurs so that when the need arises, you will be prepared. How do you go about finding a new veterinarian in a new city? The best place to begin is simply the NewMarket Services Information Guide. Location is an important factor, as many pets don’t travel well and, in the case of emergency, distance may be a factor in receiving timely treatment. After making a list of local veterinary clinics, take the time to go visit them. Talk to the staff. Ask about office hours, fees, whether appointments are required, and what services are available. Also, ask if it is possible to talk to the doctor so that you can introduce yourself and at least have a first impression to help you make your choice. Finally, ask your neighbors which veterinarians they take their pets to and why. Then, of course, it’s your decision, but at least you have gathered some information on which to base your decision. Remember to NEVER leave your pet in a car in hot weather, as heat conditions in cars can quickly become fatal to animals.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 35 36 ] Bakersfield Information Guide FITNESS AND HEALTH
IN THE KITCHEN
he fall season brings thoughts of cooler weather, falling leaves and perhaps apple season. Autumn is synonymous with apple harvesting. Apples are grown in all 50 Tstates, so no matter where you have relocated apple picking should be within your reach. Apple picking is a great family activity that allows us to be outdoors and then actually experience the fruits of our labors. It’s a wonderful way to spend the day and when you return home, you won’t be empty handed. Apples are very nutritious. They are great eaten alone as well as a very versatile ingredient. Never peel your apples. Two-thirds of the fiber and lots of antioxidants are found in the peel. One medium apple is about 80 calories and contains no fat or sodium. Here are two of my favorite apple salad recipes. The first I have enjoyed for years. The second is made with the now popular ingredient; pomegranate seeds. When preparing the salads the dressing may be made ahead of time and refrigerated. However for the salad itself; it is best to prepare when you are ready to serve, to avoid the apples turning brown.
Apple Blue Cheese Salad (ABC’s) Pomegranate Apple Salad Dressing Dressing* Combine the following in a glass jar and Combine the following in a food processor shake until sugar dissolves. or blender: 3/4 c olive oil 1/3 c vinegar 1/3 c apple cider vinegar 3/4 c sugar 3 t sugar 1 t salt 1 clove garlic, pressed 1 t dry mustard 1/2 t salt 1/2 small onion, quartered We should look 1/8 t black pepper 1 c Canola oil Salad Pour into a salad bottle, add poppy seeds for someone to eat Toss together: and shake well. 8 c baby lettuce blend 1 1/2 t poppy seeds and drink with 4 Granny Smith apples, Salad diced and unpeeled Toss together: before looking 4 oz. crumbled blue cheese 1 Romaine lettuce, chopped for something to eat 1 c pecans, toasted 1 pomegranate, seeded* 1/2 c dried cranberries 1 green apple, chopped and drink... *You may simplify preparation by using – Epicurus store-bought Poppy Seed Salad dressing and/or fresh pomegranate seeds. Did you know: • 25 percent of an apple’s volume is air. That is why they float. • China is the leading producer of apples, the U.S. is second. • Archeologists have found evidence that humans have been eating apples since at least 6500 B.C. • Apples are a member of the rose family.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 37 PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING
Choosing a Health Club • Does the club offer instruction in a sport or activity that you might Your move is filled with many new challenges. If your life style want to learn (tennis, squash, swimming, etc.)? includes working out a priority • Does the club offer a variety of leagues? If you want to compete will be to find a club that meets your needs. Or a new move may - is the club affiliated to the right leagues, and does it have teams bring the perfect time to implement those healthy lifestyle changes of the right standard for your competencies? that were on your New Year’s Resolution list for the past several • Does the club offer a variety of high-quality weight equipment? It years. should include free weights, such as barbells and dumbbells, and Begin your search before you move. Ask your current club for machine weights, you really need both to get a proper workout. recommendations or perhaps they even have reciprocity with a club • Does the club offer a sufficient number and variety of programs in your new location. If you belong to a national chain, chances are for you to achieve other goals (stress management, weight good that you will be able to transfer your membership. management, smoking cessation, social activities, etc.)? However if you do find yourself looking for a new club, use this • Are there long lines at the equipment, or crowded aerobics check list to help you find the place that will work best for you. classes, at the time that you would be using the club? When visiting a club use your own observations and question the • What are the real costs? Make sure you understand all rates, staff and current members. Be sure your new club will be able to charges and fees because these can vary widely, and many clubs meet your fitness, social, and safety needs. require contracts ranging from a few weeks to a year or more. Be • Is the club clean and well maintained, especially the locker rooms sure you’re entitled to use all facilities, such as pools and spas at and the shower areas? no extra charge. • Are staff members friendly and helpful? Make sure there is always • Is child care available if you need it? someone available to answer your questions, to show you a new • Is there adequate parking available if you need it? exercise, or how to use a piece of equipment. One way to find out whether a club is right for you is to try it out • Does the location for work for you? It’s best to select a club that’s for a few days. Some clubs offer a special guest pass for near where you live or work. prospective members. But even if you have to pay for a week to try • Do fitness staff members have appropriate educational it out, it’s better to spend the money than to make a long-term backgrounds and/or certification from nationally recognized commitment to a club that doesn’t work out. Try the club during the certifying agencies? hours you will normally be using it. It will give you a realistic idea of • Are new members provided with a club orientation and what the club environment while you are there. instruction on how to use equipment? It’s important to read health club contracts carefully. Don’t • What age group do you see while visiting? If you are in your 50’s, assume the club offers classes such as aerobics as part of the do you really want to work out with a group in their 20’s (and vice membership. While some do, others charge extra. If the health club versa)? Be sure to visit club at the time you will be normally using requires a long-term commitment, find out whether you’ll be able to the facilities. get a refund if you need to cancel your membership due to a job • Does the club have the cardiovascular resistance equipment you transfer, an injury or if you simply find that the club isn’t working for want and need to achieve your fitness goals? you. • Does the club offer sufficient number and variety of programs for It’s a fact that of every three people who join a health club, only you to achieve your fitness goals (aerobic, racquet sports, one will work out there 100 days a year. Find a club that you are basketball, etc.)? If classes or group activities help to motivate comfortable with and you will greatly increase your chances of you and the health club doesn’t offer the classes you need, being the one of three people that are there more than 100 days a sticking with your exercise program won’t be realistic. year. NewMarket Services wishes you good health.
38 ] Bakersfield Information Guide PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING
Choosing a Primary Care Provider Guidelines to Narrow Your Choices One of the most important decisions that you will make in your • Insurance – With the risings costs of health care, be sure your relocation process is choosing a Primary Care Provider for you and insurance will be accepted. your family. Don’t put off the decision until you get sick. Your PCP • Professional credentials - any provider you consider should have will be responsible for approximately 90% of your health care. The graduated from an accredited medical school, and be sure relationship you develop with this health professional can be the key they’re board certified. to keeping illness at bay, and it is your best connection into the rest • Professional affiliations - Your provider should be affiliated with a of the medical system. Your PCP can help you seek appropriate large, well-equipped hospital, either as a staff member or as an consultations with specialists if or when the medical problem is attending physician, a title that carries with it admitting privileges. beyond the realm of his expertise. • Practice arrangements - You may choose a solo practitioner or a A generation ago, people relied on General Practitioners (GPs) for group practice, in which two or more doctors in the same all their medical needs, from treating colds, and backaches to specialty or different specialties share the same office. setting broken arms and delivering babies. The competent GP • Location and office hours - If these aren’t convenient, you may knew the medical histories of every member of a patient’s family have a difficult time making an appointment. because he treated them all. Today, Primary Care Providers are bringing this tradition back with the addition of providing preventive Make a Consultation Visit and Consider the Following health measures. More emphasis is now placed on preventive • Office is clean and the staff is courteous and helpful. medicine. You are now responsible for the health of you and your • You are seen by the doctor within a reasonable time of your family by making informed decisions, improving your diet and appointment or you are given a good explanation for any delay. exercising. A primary care provider (PCP) is a general practitioner • You are not rushed through the visit. The provider listens to you, who sees people of all ages for common medical problems. Your does not interrupt you and encourages you to voice your PCP is often involved in your care for a long time, so it is important concerns about your health. to select someone with whom you will work well. You will want to • The doctor is well-informed about preventive health measures, choose someone that emphasizes wellness and self-care by giving such as nutrition, exercise and the widely recommended use of you the information needed to make healthy lifestyle choices and screening tests. He should be quick to inform you of healthy health care decisions. lifestyle choices. Below are some guidelines to help you make your decision. • You’re comfortable talking to the doctor and the doctor explains Begin by Gathering Some Choices. things so that you can understand.
• Before you move ask your current health care provider for a Most importantly, don’t put off the decision until you get sick. If a referral. You can also ask other doctors you respect and see health care problem arises, and you have not yet chosen a provider, regularly. it is usually best to seek non-emergency care from an “urgent care • If you belong to a managed care plan, find out what doctors are center” rather than a hospital emergency room. This will often save affiliated with it. you time and money. However recent years, many emergency • Ask friends, relatives or business associates. Referrals from rooms have expanded their services to include reasonably priced people you know are usually based on trust and confidence in the urgent care within the emergency room itself or an adjoining area— provider. to find out, call the hospital first. • Hospitals usually offer a referral service that can provide you with the names of staff doctors who meet certain criteria you may be seeking, however they will not vouch for the quality of care.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 39 PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING
Coping With Change where to go to make new friends can bring feelings of isolation and Did you know that your body and mind sense change as stress? loneliness. Whether you change the place you live or where you work, it all Creatures of Habit adds up to stress. The more changes that come at one time, the Psychologically, most of us are creatures of habit and quickly more stress you experience. develop repetitive patterns that make us feel comfortable and Self-Image secure. Ever notice that most people find the same seat or section Your attitudes towards change often depend on your self image of the commuter train or bus? Drivers usually take the same route and expectations of how difficult it may be. Your self image is the every day. We do this in order to reduce stress. inner vision of who you are. It is the basis of your every thought, The sameness of established behavior develops a sense of word and action. Moving, with the many changes it entails, offers an control over ourselves and surroundings. By seeking repetitive excellent opportunity to modify and/or improve your self image habits, we save our energy for new events that are either through the risks of taking positive action. unpredictable or uncontrollable. When change removes the Some people welcome change as a challenge or an exciting new sameness from our lives, we attempt to relieve the tension experience. Others may resent the inconvenience and extra effort produced by uncertainty and newness. We look for ways to develop they need to make to re-establish a comfortable routine. Still others other familiar patterns. feel overwhelmed by the unknown and are not sure where to go or to whom to turn. Often, stress causes old issues, defeats or concerns to resurface. Perhaps new worries and fears form unexpectedly, or you feel tired and fatigued most of the time. Decision making abilities are affected, and you seem to be having less fun and enjoyment. These are all telltale signs of stress brought on by change. When signs of stress affect you, it may be a time of emotional transition, indicating old behavior patterns are not as effective as they once were. This is often a good time for self-reflection-to look at what you like in yourself and what you do not like. Stress When you relocate to a new city, all categories of your life are changed. Along with the obvious changes listed above, moving to a new community requires finding new sources for familiar services. Finding a new hairdresser, barber, drugstore, food market, doctor, lawyer, cleaner and shoemaker are all necessary. You not only have to locate these services, but you need to determine if you are satisfied with the quality of the services provided. Forming a comfortable working relationship with the service provider adds more stress to the change itself. Perhaps your whole lifestyle changes if you are moving from a Management of Change smaller or larger community. With long-distance moves, you will To manage change effectively, several simple steps will help you have to make new friends and develop a different emotional support adjust to the newness and extra effort needed to establish different system. When these changes are not made through your own patterns in your life. choices, but are the decisions of a boss or someone in your family, then the stress is even greater. Children have to make changes • Organize your time so you can finish the tasks you have planned. because of their parents. They need special help and understanding • Have realistic expectations. Do not plan to complete everything getting settled in school and making new friends. Often, they will within the first few weeks. have difficulties as they adjust to the new surroundings. • List your priorities and finish each one before you go on to the Changes produce stress not only within yourself, but also with next. the people with whom you are close. It may cause you to react • Provide your body with recreational time and time to relax. differently from your usual behavior. If you are in a relationship or • Trust your first impressions; they are most often right. marriage, you may find more tension developing, with less patience or tolerance of the other person. If you live alone, not knowing Periods of change can offer you an opportunity for growth within yourself. Professional consultation may be useful during this period.
40 ] Bakersfield Information Guide VOLUNTEERING IN YOUR COMMUNITY
One of the best ways to become involved in your new community Many people are reminded of their wish to volunteer during is through volunteering. The benefits of volunteering are many, for holiday seasons, but this is when organizations might have an everyone involved. Ask your employer for advice. Many companies excess of help. If you want to volunteer during the holiday, give employees paid time off to volunteer and will often publicize remember to contact the organization in advance. Otherwise, time their employees’ community service. According to the research your work for the lean season. group Independent Sector, the U.S. volunteer sector is equivalent to Volunteering is fun, leads to learning new skills, meeting 9 million full-time workers. Whether you have an hour or a weekend, interesting people, making new friends, sharing your talents, and if you want to help kids or the environment, there are great keeping in touch with the community in which you live. Whether it is organizations that will excite your particular interest, broaden your important to you to solve a community problem, advance a worthy horizons and fit into your time schedule. cause or to develop as a person, volunteering offers many benefits Don’t forget to include your family. If your children are school age in appreciation for the gift of your time and expertise. chances are there are many opportunities to volunteer at their Once you have chosen an area of interest, how should you go school, or even in their classroom. That is a great way to meet other about involving yourself? See what the Web can do for you. 1-800- parents with children the same age. Clean up a neighborhood park Volunteer.org, a service of the Points of Light Foundation & with your children. Spend a morning at a homeless shelter with your Volunteer Center National Network provides listings of local and children. You’ll find that volunteering is not only a fun family-bonding virtual volunteering as well as contact information for Volunteer experience but a great way to teach children the importance of Centers across the nation. Open the classified section of your local giving back to the community. paper. Check out the bulletin boards in your office. Or just start How you get involved with your community depends on your calling the local agencies you’re interested in. interests, skills and time. Choose something that fits well in to your One of the best ways to make these contacts is to walk right into schedule and makes you excited about working together to help the organization—a library, a shelter, training facility, or a political make a difference. Every person has that capability. Each of us can office—and find out who organizes volunteers. You can tell a lot by right a wrong, fill a plate, visit a shut-in or clean up a park, and that meeting the volunteer coordinator and any volunteers who happen does make the world a better place. to be on duty. While you won’t earn a paycheck for volunteering, There are several things to consider when choosing in what to you will earn valuable experience, a sense of accomplishment, and involve yourself. First of all be selective, think about what matters to the satisfaction that only comes from personally making the world a you, and where you wish to spend your time. If you have certain better place to live. social issues that you feel passionate about, it’s a great place to put your energy. You may have particular skills that will steer you toward a certain organization. Are you willing to explore new opportunities? Volunteering can teach you valuable new skills that you may use in other parts of your life. "You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give." - Winston Churchill
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 41 42 ] Bakersfield Information Guide HOUSING
MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE...
Rent or Buy? The decision to rent or buy in your new location is dependent upon many considerations unique to your personal situation. Some of the potential factors involve the tax implications, down payment, other investment vehicles, the length of time you are anticipating being in your new location and whether or not your current home has sold. If you decide to buy, should you purchase an existing home or build a new one? Again, many factors have to be considered. Will an existing home need a lot of repair or remodeling to bring it to your standards? What about the difference in the cost of operation and maintenance between new and an existing structure? How should you finance a renovation? Which home will appreciate faster? Will it be difficult to get a construction loan? Is it better to rent for a while to become familiar with neighborhoods in your new city? What about capital gains tax if you don’t close in time? We suggest you seek the advice of a certified financial planner and a realtor to thoroughly clarify your options. These choices can become quite complex. Some Advantages to Renting Whether you’re in your first apartment or a longtime resident, there are many advantages you are afforded by choosing apartment living. Mobility: You enjoy the freedom to move, to accept that better job, to take the vacation you’ve dreamed of. No maintenance: Just relax and delight in the grounds and facilities maintenance technicians keeps attractive for you. Flexibility: You have the ability to increase or decrease your living space without the burden of sales pitches, closing costs, interest rates or the high cost of maintaining a home and property. Location: The choice is yours! Recreation: Chances are, you’ve chosen an apartment community with a swimming pool, tennis court, weight room or sauna. Apartments have the equipment and people to maintain them, which is no small task for the homeowner. No waiting: If you’re like most apartment residents, moving into your apartment was easy and fast. You settled into your new home without lengthy paperwork, a loan approval period or a large financial investment. Your Current Residence As you prepare to move, a big decision may include whether to sell or rent your current property. Ask yourself the following questions as you make this decision. You may also want to ask advice from a real estate agent.
continued on page 44
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 43 MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE
Market Inspect kitchen appliances. Check the stove to see if all burners Is it a seller’s market? Signs include low interest rates and work. Does the range have a hood with a fan? Is the oven self- shortage of homes for sale. How long have similar homes been on cleaning? Is the stove gas or electric? If it is gas, you may have an the market and how long are you willing to let your home be on the extra monthly charge for cooking gas. This would also be true if you market? Or is it a good rental market and do rental units have tenant had a gas clothes dryer in your unit. Check out the waiting lists? Is your property in a trendy area? Desirable areas refrigerator/freezer for storage space. Is there enough counter and typically garner higher rents and seldom have vacancies. cabinet space? Don’t forget to keep an eye out for bugs, especially Financial in a high-rise building. Is this property good for rental income? Can you charge more for Inspect the central air conditioning and heating systems. Ask rent than you pay for mortgage, taxes and upkeep? How will selling other tenants if there is enough heat in the winter. It can be costly if affect your federal and state tax situation? Furthermore, if your you have to buy or rent window air conditioning units. property does not sell quickly, can you afford to keep the home Is there enough storage space? Do you have enough closets for vacant while it’s on the market? If not, do you feel you will be able clothes, linens and general items. Are there built-in shelves and to find a renter on a short-term basis? Are you likely to want to move bookcases for books and DVDs? Do you also get a storage space back into the home some day? that is not adjacent to the unit? Rental Tips Does the building have special amenities such as a swimming Apartment experts say that some detective work is needed to pool, game room, barbecue area, and exercise room or tennis conduct a search that finds the most livable rental residence for the courts? Keep in mind that recreational amenities generally will money. After you have weeded out a good apartment complex from increase your rent. You should consider what features you will really many rent signs and/or listings, scanned the neighborhood you like use. for the best rental possibilities, you will be ready to scrutinize each How is the noise level in the complex? Have neighbors been property and landlord for shortcomings. It is easy for a prospective playing music louder than you prefer? Are you located by a major tenant to gather quick clues about the general care, maintenance of airport, freeway or train tracks? the building, and cleanliness of the area overall. Try to talk to the Do you need an apartment that takes pets? If not, do you want tenant who is vacating the apartment you are planning to rent. He to live in an area that does? Do tenants appear to be cleaning up or she can tell you a great deal about the pluses and minuses of after their pets? What is the management policy for pet size and living there. Here are some tips for inspecting the inside of the maintenance? apartment: Rental experts suggest that tenants should tour several Is it clean? Carpet should be cleaned and walls/ceilings should apartment complexes before placing a deposit on a unit. The be freshly painted. Does the apartment have a bad odor? It could minimum deposit to hold a unit is usually $100. Prospective renters be a tip that the prior tenant had a pet or cooked spicy foods. still need to fill out an application and pay an application fee. This Check room sizes with a floor plan. Make sure the furniture that will hold your unit while your employment, credit and rental histories you will be moving will fit. Is the bedroom near the bathroom? Does are being checked out. This process usually takes 7 to 10 days to the dining room adjoin the kitchen? complete.
44 ] Bakersfield Information Guide CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME
Making a final decision and determining which house to make an Property Taxes offer on shouldn’t be taken lightly. The decision should be made Property taxes may vary from one neighborhood to another. This rationally and not guided by emotion. You most likely won’t have the can sometimes affect whether you view a community as a desirable luxury of taking your time on deciding which house you’d like to place to live. Higher property taxes often mean newer and more pursue. However, since it is such a major decision you would like to modern schools, well-maintained roads, and bountiful community base it on factual information. Some broad categories to consider services. are: Schools Appreciation If you have school-aged children and plan to send them to public Ask your real estate agent to retrieve sales of homes in the school, you definitely want to consider the reputation of the neighborhood over the past few years. If one neighborhood shows neighborhood school. If you plan on sending your child to a private an annual average 8 percent increase and another is skyrocketing school, how long is the commute? You will likely spend a lot of time at 15 percent, you may have your decision made. driving your child not only during the school day but for extra- Crime curricular events outside the daily school schedule. Which ever Go to the local police or sheriff department and ask about crime school you decide, you can usually find general district information in your specific neighborhood. You might find theft or vandalism to and state standardized test results online. Always plan a visit to the be more prevalent in one area than another. Also please visit the school and receive the information first-hand from school website, www.familywatchdog.us. When you visit this site you can administrators. You should also talk to teachers and parents. enter your address and a map will pop up with your house as the Sellers’ Situations small icon of a house and red, blue, green, dots surrounding your If you don’t know already, ask your real estate agent how long the entire neighborhood. When you click on these dots a picture of a house has been on the market. Usually the longer a house has been person will appear with an address and the description of the crime listed, the better chance the seller will accept an offer lower than he or she had committed. asking price. Conversely, if the house has been on the market for Drawbacks just a couple days, the sellers will probably wait for a better offer if Rarely will you be lucky enough to find a perfect place. Think you offer less than the listed price. Your real estate agent might also about the cons associated with each house and determine to be able to dig up additional information about the sellers, like why correct them or how much of a negative impact each will have. they’re selling. If it’s a job-related move or a divorce, the sellers likely want to move as quickly as possible, meaning you have a better The House shot at them accepting a lower price. Make a list of the amenities and attributes you want your house to have. Be specific. Prioritize that list. Then, rate how each house Style and Substance measures up to each need on your list. The SUBSTANCE are things that cannot be changed such as the location, view, size of lot, noise in the area, school district, and floor Neighborhoods plan. The STYLE represents easily changed surface finishes like If you have kids or pets and being close to a park is important, carpet, wallpaper, color, and window coverings. Buy the house with you’ll want to consider that. How close are shopping, restaurants, good SUBSTANCE, because the STYLE can always be changed to churches, and other services? Are the streets maintained? How do match your tastes. your prospective neighbors keep up their property? How long will your commute to work be?
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 45 HOUSING OPTIONS FOR GROWING SENIOR DEMOGRAPHIC
The California Department of Aging estimates the growth of vary greatly. “What seniors are really looking for when they’re people age 60 and older will grow by as much as 149 percent by considering a move is choice,” said Murch. “They’re looking for the the year 2020 in Sacramento, El Dorado and Placer Counties. right location, the amenities they want, services they may need, all Home builders are now listening to those numbers. Innovative tied to a provider with a good reputation.” designs and careful consideration of the needs of senior citizens are Lorna and Howard Hansen recently began looking at the Eskaton now being studied to construct communities that include many Village in Placerville. “Our house is so close that we’ve watched services needed by senior citizens. Retirement villages now come them building the development from our deck,” said Howard complete with clubhouses for socialization, meal deliveries and Hansen. His wife said they know it’s time to consider “slowing transportation options to just name a few. Seniors will now have to down” and likes the advantages offered at the new development. do their homework to find out which development is right for them. “We want to still be able to enjoy all the programs they offer, and The senior housing trend started with senior apartments where not wait until we’re too old,” said Lorna Hansen. “We’re doing what residents are monitored on a daily basis and have access to in- we wished our parents had done.” home emergency services. That was just the beginning of a now The Hansen said taking care of their parents who stayed in their extensive list of developments that cater to senior citizens. Many homes was very difficult and like the options available to them at the senior communities in the greater Sacramento area include access new development. to pools, gyms and clubhouses and are age restricted. Valerie Condie, director of sales for Lakemont said seniors are The newest developments enable seniors to own a private very savvy when it comes to buying a home. “They’ve done their residence, maintain their independent lifestyles while having many homework and know what they want,” said Condie. “They don’t services available to them when the needs arise. want a sales pitch. They want you to listen to their needs. When One of the newest innovations in senior living has come out of people buy a home at one of the Eskaton Villages, they’ll never have collaboration between Eskaton and Lakemont Homes. Two senior to worry about home maintenance, all that is taken care of for them, communities, one in Roseville and the other in Placerville now offer from cleaning the gutters, taking care of the roof and paint, to a full range of options for seniors. Seniors may choose a single maintaining the landscape.” Condie said this will allow seniors to family home or a duet to buy. Condominiums are also available and travel even for extended trips without any worries. a Lodge is designated for residents with memory loss or for those Emergency needs will be handled on site with pull cords in the who need specialized care. homes and pendants that can be worn around the neck while Eskaton has led the nation by identifying the needs of seniors outside. “When they pull that cord or touch that button, the person since 1968. CEO Todd Murch said the housing needs of seniors responding will know who they are, where they are, and what
46 ] Bakersfield Information Guide HOUSING OPTIONS FOR GROWING SENIOR DEMOGRAPHIC
medical conditions they suffer from,” said Condie. “All their medical help them through that process. We can refer them to a real estate records will be updated as needed.” agent who understands their needs. Moving is an added burden. Truman and Joanne Gray, also residents of Placerville, visited the Lakemont Homes is currently working on a partnership with model homes and said they were impressed with the development. Eskaton Moving Connections.” Moving Connections meets with “I really like the fact that it’s all seniors living here,” said Joanne Gray. clients and plans what furniture and possessions are going to be “Our house is just too big and it would be great not to have any kids moved. They facilitate what is done with unwanted possessions, in hot rods running up and down the roads.” offer help with furniture placement and interior design. On moving Truman Gray said he liked the fact that it was close to a hospital. day, they pack up and unload all items, placing furniture and “We’re all getting a little older every day,” he said. “You don’t know artwork where the client desires. when you might need some of the services they offer.” Both the Four model homes are available for tours in Placerville. Prices Gray’s said they really appreciated the beautiful view of the start from the high $300,000s and sizes range from 1,175 to 1,611 mountains. sq. ft. All homes feature spacious master suites, elegant entries, Many of the senior developments also include social activities, covered patios and 2-car garages. Three condominium floor plans golf courses, card playing groups, and day excursions. are also available for purchase. Homes at Eskaton Village are constructed with details designed In Roseville, four model homes feature many options for to make daily tasks easier. Sinks and counters are built higher than homebuyers to choose from. Optional 2-story homes are available average, as well as custom height toilets. Showers have extra with roomy guest suites or dens. Prices start from the mid handrails, built-in seats and linen closets located right in the $300,000s and sizes range from 1,163 to 2,171 sq. ft. bathroom Lakemont Homes took many cues from Eskaton when New options for seniors are growing almost as fast as their they drafted their house plans. demographic, so seniors should consider their needs, wants and According to Condie, one of the biggest concerns seniors have possible future needs before signing on the dotted line. For more when considering a new-home purchase is selling their current information about senior housing you may log onto www.aarp.org residence and the problems associated with moving. “Seniors want or www.eskaton.org or phone AARP at (888) 687-2277 or Eskaton to know how to get from point A to point B,” she said. “We try to at (888) 334-3490.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 47 HOME INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Finding faults in a home doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t Interior buy it. But it will help you to know the type of repair costs that The kitchen and baths are the most expensive rooms to should be anticipated, and sellers often will make adjustments in renovate, so check their condition carefully. A newly-painted interior their asking price on the basis of problems discovered in an may look nice, but it could be hiding something. inspection. Plumbing Inspectors look for the following: Turn on the bathroom sink faucet and shower and then flush the Brick and Concrete toilet. When the toilet starts to refill, does the water pressure Check pavement, driveways and horizontal brick surfaces for diminish? Fill sinks and tub with three inches of water. Do they drain cracks. Is there damage from freezing? What is the condition of the properly? Do faucets leak? Lift up the carpeting. Are there any signs mortar between the bricks? Is any pavement buckling from of flooding or decay? spreading underground tree roots? Roof Electrical Are shingles curling and lifting? Find out how old the roof is, and Open the door on the fuse box or circuit-breaker panel. Is the you will have a pretty good idea of when you will have to replace it. electrical service adequate? The average house should have 100- Termites and Carpenter Ants amp service. Is it wired for 220 volts, which is necessary for electric Look for evidence of termites and carpenter ants on basement dryers and ranges? wood framing. Is there saw dust like wood or paper debris? Can Exterior you find evidence of termite tubes or tunnels? Termites live in earth, Is the house well maintained? Does the roof sag? Are the exterior so make sure that there are no places where earth is closer than six walls out of line? What is the condition of the paint, especially on the inches to wood. Like termites, carpenter ants like wood and wood south and west sides, where sun exposure is greatest? Is there products. adequate drainage away from the house? Water Damage Heating & Cooling Look in the basement for signs of leakage. This could be a result How old is the heating/cooling system? Has it been maintained? of poor drainage around the house. Water damage also is caused Ask to see the owner’s cooling bills for the previous year. This will by seepage through porous basement walls and condensation, give you an idea of its energy efficiency. which frequently is caused by inadequate ventilation. Basement Insulation walls painted a dark color may be an effort to disguise a past Check the attic and crawl space. Is the insulation adequate and problem. Beware of chalky white water stains on foundation walls complete? Has it been properly installed? Does the insulation or partitions; stains on wood and drywall; delamination of paneling obstruct the air vents, preventing the house from “breathing” and and lifting or buckling floor tiles; or a damp, mildew odor. possibly causing wood rot? Does the home have storm windows? Windows and Doors Has the glazing putty dried and shrunk, allowing water and air seepage? Is the wood decayed? Are the window and door frames caulked and weather-stripped?
48 ] Bakersfield Information Guide HOME CARE BASICS FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS
You’ve finally done it—you’ve just moved into your brand new Appliances home. The smell of fresh paint still permeates the air. You’re likely Remember to read the instruction manual for every appliance in consumed with unpacking, setting up furnishings, rearranging, your new home. The manuals provide recommended cleaning and decorating—energized by the blank pallet you have to work with. maintenance schedules and sometimes your warranty will become But once you’ve signed the thick pile of closing documents, the void if you don’t follow these recommendations. moving trucks have left and everything is neatly in its place, what do Driveways you do next? It’s time to get a handle on the routine maintenance If you have an asphalt driveway, remove oil, gasoline and similar you’ll need to perform in order to ensure that you and your family substances immediately with soapy water. live comfortably in your new home for years to come. Here’s some To avoid holes in your asphalt driveway, refrain from resting patio advice to get you started and help save money while you’re at it: furniture or bicycle stands on it. Maintaining a clean home will ensures it will last longer and works Do not burn anything on your driveway. better. Dust and dirt, if allowed to accumulate, can harm the finishes Gutters and Downspouts on blinds, cabinets, countertops, floors, sinks, tubs, toilets, walls, Clear away leaves, tree limbs and other debris from gutters and tiles and other items. If dirt does accumulate, make sure to clean it downspouts. with a substance that does not scratch or damage the finishes. Downspouts should be turned away from your home’s On the outside of your home, make sure that gutters and foundation. downspouts do not get clogged with leaves or other objects. The Every four to six years, paint gutters that are not are made of exterior of your house is built to withstand exposure to the aluminum or vinyl to help prevent rust. elements, but a periodic cleaning will improve the appearance and, in many instances, prolong the life of siding and other exterior Heating and Cooling Systems products. Late summer or early fall are the ideal time to do an annual inspection and cleaning of these systems. When you bought your home, you probably received a warranty from the builder on workmanship and materials. This warranty Make sure you change the filters every three months. applies to problems related to the construction of the home, but it Keeping your pilot light burning during the summer will help keep does not apply to problems that arise because of failure to perform the furnace dry and prevent corrosion. routine maintenance. For example, if your roof begins to leak after Registers help regulate the flow of air and maintain the desired six months because of faulty workmanship, your warranty would temperature in your home. Keeping registers closed in rooms you cover that. If you develop a problem because water backed up in don’t use will save on cooling/heating costs. clogged gutters that you should have cleaned, the builder is not Using heat generating appliances in the evening and reducing the responsible for repairs. Also, some items, such as appliances, may number of lights on will help keep the temperature down and save be covered by manufacturers’ warranties and are not the on costs during the summer. responsibility of the builder. Plumbing You should fully familiarize yourself with the terms of your Every member of your family should know where the intake warranty soon after you move into your home. With all the valves are located. Label each one. excitement surrounding a move into a new home, most people have If any of your appliances develops a leak, inspect your drain trap. little desire to curl up in front of the fireplace and read a legal A partially clogged drain can cause overflow. Use a plunger or a document. Nonetheless, you should not wait to read your warranty plumber’s snake to unclog the drain. If you need to, use boiling until a problem arises. Set aside an hour to learn what your rights water to help unclog a partially opened drain. Call a plumber if these and responsibilities are from the outset. techniques don’t work. Here are some additional tips for properly maintaining specific A worn washer, a loose part in a faucet or steam in a hot water systems in your new home. pipe generally causes a noisy pipe. Do not hesitate to repair the noise because vibrations can follow the noise and lead to leaks.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 49 TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR ENERGY COSTS
The cost of cooling your house continues to rise. There are a • Close doors to rooms that are not being used. number of ways you can save a significant amount of money on • Run full loads in your washer and dryer, and use “solar drying” your energy bills. In fact, it’s possible to save up to 25 percent on (clotheslines). your power bill by using the following tips. While your results might • Use energy saver option on your dishwasher, allowing dishes to vary, you're guaranteed to find at least a few ways to save money. air dry. The idea behind all our advice, and in fact our entire conservation • If you A/C unit is on the ground, keep the area around it clean and effort, is to give you the information you need to make the right free of obstructions to maintain air flow. decisions. • Unplug your televisions/VCR when you’re on vacation. Most new These simple steps don’t cost a thing, but can potentially save sets draw power even when they’re turned off. you 10-25% on your monthly energy bill. • Keep lights and lighting fixtures clean, especially if you’re • Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Don’t forget your reducing the number of lights you use. Dirt absorbs light. Let computer - it can use as much energy as a refrigerator. Most new lights cool before cleaning them and never touch halogen bulbs computers have “sleep” settings. with your bare hands. The oil from your skin can greatly damage • In the cold months, set the thermostat to 68 degrees when the bulbs. Use a small piece of paper to hold the bulb. home, and then back to 58 degrees when sleeping or when you • If your dishwasher has a filter clean it. are not home more than four hours. • Clean the reflectors underneath the burners on stovetops. • In warm months, set the thermostat to 78-80 degrees when home and 5 to 10 degrees warmer at night or when you're not There are plenty of low cost, easy to do projects or steps you can home. do to save another 10-25% on your energy bill. • Do not turn your air conditioning off in the hot months when • Use compact fluorescent bulbs instead of incandescent ones. you’re not home. Your house will store up the heat and you're This will typically save $1 per bulb changed out (for bulbs running likely to make the air conditioning run for hours to feel 4-6 hours per day) and reduce heat in your home. Regular bulbs comfortable. use most of the electricity to generate heat so use care when • In the winter, open window coverings on the sunny side of your changing bulbs. home to take advantage of “free heat from the sun” Close the • Caulk windows and caulk and weather-strip doors. Keep the coverings on cloudy days or right after the sun sets. outside air out and the inside air in. • In the cooling season, close blinds and drapes during the day to • Install a hot water heater blanket but be careful not to cover vents keep heat out. or temperature settings. • Also, use your dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer, and cook • Install hot water pipe insulation. Do keep the insulation at least six as late in the evening as possible. inches away from the flue (exhaust pipe) of gas water heaters. • Barbecue outside if practical, keeping in mind the heat and effect • Plant trees and shrubs on the south and west side of your of sun on your body. By reducing the heat coming into your home residence. The vegetation acts as insulation and provides from any source, will reduce the load on your air conditioning. shading, reducing thermal gain in a building. • Use pool trippers to reduce the time your swimming pool pump • Fix leaky faucets Install low flow showerheads. runs on—eight to twelve hours a day is plenty in the summer • Use room fans to keep the air moving and reduce the feeling of months, less in the winter months. heat in your home. • Set your water heater to 120 degrees. • Replace furnace and air conditioner filters. Spray the filters with a • Vacuum your refrigerator coils (underneath and in the back) and light coating of lemon furniture polish or vegetable oil cooking don’t obstruct the coils. They need air space to work. spray to help trap dirt in the filter. • Keep the seals (gaskets) on refrigerators and freezers clean. • Check the seals on your refrigerator and freezer. • Keep your freezer as full as possible. You can place containers or • Replace normal thermostats with programmable thermostats. plastic bottles filled with water in the empty spaces. • Make sure food is cool and covered before it goes into the refrigerator.
50 ] Bakersfield Information Guide SECURITY
Each year more than six million residential burglaries occur Computer Security throughout the United States. That’s one every ten seconds! In Computer security is the process of preventing unauthorized use addition to the worry of home burglaries, we now also need to of your computer. concern ourselves with computer hackers and personal identity • Use of anti-virus software on all Internet-connected computers. theft. Listed below are some things that you can do to reduce your Be sure to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date. chances of becoming a victim. • Use of some type of firewall product, such as a network Home Security Checklist appliance or a personal firewall software package. • Have home security system professionally installed that offers a • Turn off your computer or disconnect its Ethernet interface when 24 hour monitoring system. Make sure to post the home system you are not using it. An intruder cannot attack your computer if it stickers and window decals: this should alert and deter would be is powered off or otherwise completely disconnected from the intruders. network. • Never stop mail or newspaper deliveries, it signals that you are • Use software backup tools if available, and store the backup away. Have a neighbor pick up all deliveries if possible. disks somewhere away from the computer. • When recording your answering machine message, do not state Identity Theft that you are not home or out of town. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal • When leaving for an extended period, put lights and stereo or information without your permission to commit fraud or other television on a timer to give the appearance that someone is crimes. While you can’t entirely control whether you will become a home. victim, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Exterior/Interior Security • Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal • Replace all locks immediately upon moving into your new home information before you discard them. and install deadbolts on all outside doors. • Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your Social • Secure your sliding glass doors with pins to prevent all horizontal Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number and vertical movement. Also install security film over the glass on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use panes for additional protection. another identifier. • Remember to lock all doors and windows. • Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the • Provide remote panic buttons for children and/or elderly mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing residents. with. • Never keep garage door openers in cars that are parked outside • Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a of your home. web address you know. Keep Your Valuables Safe • Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your • Keep your important papers, heirloom jewelry and large amounts mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social of cash in a safe deposit box. Security number. • Engrave your valuables with your social security number or drivers license number. • Store jewelry, firearms, furs and like in a small closet with a non- hinged solid core door that has a deadbolt. • When purchasing new electronic equipment, breakdown cartons before discarding them. This way you avoid advertising your new purchase to the entire neighborhood and drive-by observers.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 51 HOMEBUYER’S GLOSSARY
As you start shopping for a new home, you may encounter some Contingency Condition that must be met before a contract is unfamiliar words and terms. The following glossary will help get you binding. through the maze of buying a home. Convertibility Ability to change a loan from an adjustable rate Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) Loan with an interest rate schedule to a fixed-rate schedule. adjusted according to movements in the financial market. Many Covenant Agreement between seller and buyer on a piece of offer lower-than-market initial interest rates that rise only gradually property, restricting the use of that property. (Also called deed for the first few years. restriction.) Annual Percentage Rate (APR) Annual cost of credit over the life of Deed Legal document representing property ownership. a loan including interest, service charges, points, loan fees, Default When a borrower fails to make the required payments of mortgage insurance and other items. a mortgage contract. Appraisal Unbiased, professional opinion of a property’s value Density The number of homes built on a particular acre of land. based on its style and appearance, construction quality, usefulness Allowable densities are determined by local jurisdictions. and the value of comparable properties. Debt-To-Income Ratio Long-Term debt expenses as a percentage Assessment Tax levied on a property or a value placed on the of monthly income; used by lenders to qualify borrowers for worth of a property by a taxing authority. mortgage loans. Assumption Transaction allowing a buyer to assume responsibility Due-on-Sale Clause in a mortgage contract requiring the borrower for an existing loan instead of getting a new loan. to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale or transfer of the Broker (Real Estate) Person who receives a commission or fee for property. bringing buyer and seller together and assisting in the negotiation of Earnest Money Sum paid to the seller to show that a potential contracts between them. A license is required in most states. purchaser is serious about buying. Building Code Local regulations controlling design, construction Easement Right-of-Way granted to a person or company and materials used in construction. Building Codes are based on authorizing access to the owner’s land. For example, a utility safety and health standards. company may be granted easement to install pipes or wires. An Buydown Subsidy, usually paid by a builder or developer, to owner may voluntarily grant an easement or can be ordered to grant reduce the monthly payments on a mortgage loan. one by a local jurisdiction. Buyer’s Agent A real estate agent who represents only the buyer Equity Difference between the value of a home and what is owed in a real estate transaction. on it. Callback Request by a homeowner for a builder to handle a Escrow Handling of funds or documents by a third party on behalf service request. of the buyer and/or seller. Cap Limit to the amount an interest rate or monthly payment can Escrow Amount Amount set up by a lender into which periodic, increase for an adjustable-rate loan either during an adjustment usually monthly, payments for taxes, hazard insurance, period or over the life of the loan. assessments and mortgage insurance premiums are made. Funds Certificate of Occupancy Document from an official agency stating are held in trust by the lender who pays the sums as they become the property meets the requirements of local codes, ordinances and due. regulations. Fair Market Value Price at which property is transferred between Chain of Title History of all documents transferring title to a parcel willing buyer and willing seller, each of whom has reasonable of real property, starting with the earliest existing document and knowledge of all pertinent facts and neither being under compulsion ending with the most recent. to buy or sell. Change Order Homebuyer’s written authorization to add, delete or Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Federal agency that insures change an item specified in a contract. mortgages with lower down payment requirements than Closing Meeting to sign documents that transfer from a seller to a conventional loans. buyer. (Also referred to as settlement.) Fixed-Rate Mortgage Mortgage with an interest rate that remains Closing Costs Charges paid at settlement for obtaining a mortgage constant over the life of the loan. loan and transferring a real estate title. Hazard Insurance Protection against damage caused by fire, wind Commission Agent’s fee for negotiating a real estate or loan storms or other common hazards. Many lenders require borrowers transaction, often expressed as the percentage of the sales price or to carry it in an amount at least to the mortgage. mortgage amount. HVAC Common building industry abbreviation for heating, Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions (CC and Rs) Standards that ventilation and air conditioning systems. define how a property may be used and the protections the Index Interest rate or adjustment standard that determines the developer makes for the benefit of all owners in a subdivision. changes in monthly payments for an adjustable-rate loan.
52 ] Bakersfield Information Guide HOMEBUYER’S GLOSSARY
Infrastructure Public facilities and services needed to support PITI Principal, interest, taxes and insurance: the four major residential development, including highways, bridges, schools and components of monthly housing payments. sewer and water systems. Point One-Time charge assessed by the lender at closing to Inspection Examination of work completed on a structure to increase the interest yield on a mortgage loan. determine compliance with building code and other code Presettlement Walk-Through Final inspection of house prior to requirements. closing, conducted by builder and buyer. Joint Tenancy Form of ownership in which the tenants own a Principal Amount borrowed, excluding interest and other charges. property equally. If one dies, the other automatically inherits the Property Survey Survey to determine the boundaries of a piece of entire property. property. Cost depends on the complexity of the survey. Loan Origination Fee Lender will charge a fee for the cost of Recording Fee Charge for recording the transfer of a property, paid processing the loan, usually calculated as a percentage of the loan to a city, county or other appropriate branch of government. amount. Specifications Contractual document describing in detail the work Loan-To-Value-Ratio Relationship between the amount of a home to be performed; method of construction; standards of loan and the total value of a property. workmanship; quality, type and manufacturer of materials and Lock-In Rate Commitment from a lender to make a loan at a pre- equipment for a particular project. set interest rate at some future date, usually for not more than 90 Tenancy in Common Form of ownership in which the tenants own days. A fee may be charged to “lock-in” a rate. separate but equal parts. To inherit the property, a surviving tenant Mortgage Commitment Formal written communication by a lender would either have to be mentioned in the will or, in the absence of agreeing to make a mortgage loan on a specific property, specifying a will, be eligible through state inheritance laws. the loan amount, length of time and conditions. Title Evidence, usually in the form of a certificate or deed, of a Mortgage Origination Fee Charge for the work involved in preparing person’s legal right to ownership of a property. and servicing a mortgage application. Title Insurance Insurance against any title defects that may exist Permit Document issued by a local government agency allowing prior to the time the title is passed from one owner to the next, and construction work to be performed in conformance with local which may come to light in a future transaction. codes. Work may not commence until permits have been obtained, Veterans Administration (VA) Federal agency that insures and each permit issuing agency must inspect the work at certain mortgage loans with very liberal down payment requirements for specified points during construction. honorably discharged veterans and their surviving spouses.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 53 WHO’S WHO IN BUILDING
Architect existing plant material. License required for practice. Building design professional who has completed all required Lender university training in architecture and passed state licensing exams; The financial institution that provides construction loan financing initials A.I.A. and F.A.I.A. indicate membership in a professional during construction and permanent financing for the home buyer organization, but not licensed status. after the home is built and there is a property settlement, referred to Builder or General Contractor in our area as closing. Most lenders make what is referred to as The buck stops with him or her in construction projects. The “end loans” which is the loan made to the buyer of a new home, and general contractor secures bids for all work and materials; hires, others make both the “end loan” and “construction loan financing” coordinates and oversees subcontractors; files for permits and which provides funds to pay for costs incurred during construction. arranges for inspections; and generally makes the final decisions in Owner Builder all construction-related matters. An individual or family who finances and manages a home Building Inspector building project (usually with the assistance of a builder or general One or more local officials who oversee and regulate every phase contractor who is hired to manage all or a particular phase of the of residential construction. Regulations vary widely. In most states construction of the home) with the intention of retaining ownership area home construction meets standards contained in the Uniform and residing in the home after completion. Building Code. In addition, applicable provisions of the Uniform Fire Subcontractor & Plumbing/Mechanical & Electrical codes are enforced. Typically, A specialist who undertakes responsibility for one phase or trade permits are issued and inspections are made at key stages of within the project and reports to the general contractor. In a typical construction by County and City building code enforcement home building project, subcontractors generally include: an departments. excavation contractor who digs foundations and grades the site; a Building Designer masonry contractor who handles all concrete, block, brickwork and Generally unlicensed professionals (license not required for paving; a framing contractor who constructs the shell and interior practice) who, by experience, are competent to design homes, partitions; a roofing contractor; a heating, ventilation and air- prepare drawings and write specifications; they often work in conditioning (HVAC) contractor; a plumbing contractor; an electrical association with licensed architects. contractor; drywall installers; insulation contractors; finish Construction Manager/Foreman carpenters who generally handle wood flooring, trim work, and The general contractor’s right-hand man. A construction cabinet installation; and a painting contractor. manager can be on site when the general contractor is not. Surveyor Design/Build Firms A professional with the training and equipment to establish or An organization that provides both architectural planning and verify property lines. The surveyor also plots and marks the general contracting services, and offers a different approach to the topography of the site, which is crucial in preparing the site plan. He conventional arrangement in which the designer and builder are or she may also be employed to stake out the building site, setting separate entities. reference marks for foundation excavation, establishing grades for Interior Designer roads or driveways and marking the locations for a septic system Specialist in decoration and furnishing; special training and and water well, if necessary. licensing not required. Initials A.S.I.D. following individual’s name Title Insurance Company indicate membership in a professional association, for which The entity that conducts a comprehensive search of the public training and passing tests are required. records to make sure that the title received by a buyer of a new Kitchen /Bath Designer home is “free and clear of any liens and encumbrances”. This Specialist in designing these rooms; initials C.K.D. and C.B.D. assures the issuance of a clear or “merchant able” title in favor of indicate certification by a professional association, for which training the buyer of a new home at the closing of the sale of the property. and passing tests are required. License is not required for practice. Landscape Architect Specialist in landscape and garden planning; primary concerns include site selection, grading, access, drainage and protection of
54 ] Bakersfield Information Guide SELECTING A BUILDER
Are you shopping for a new home? Start by shopping for a Service After the Sale and Home Warranty professional builder first. Whether you are buying a townhouse, a While you are shopping, ask about the builder’s service after the detached home in a subdivision, or a custom-built house, the sale. Most builders offer some form of warranty. Many builders back construction quality of your new home will be determined by the their own warranties on workmanship and materials, typically for quality of your builder. one year. Other builders offer warranties backed by an insurance Start your builder-search process by calling your local home program. One of the most important criteria for selecting a builder builders association. They can give you the names of reputable is the warranty protection provided on the home. Ask for a copy of builders in your area. Ask friends and relatives about builders they the builder’s warranty. Read the document thoroughly and be sure have dealt with directly, or ask them for the names of acquaintances you understand what protection is provided. If you have any who have recently built a new home. questions about the coverage, talk to the builder prior to finalizing The Interview Process your purchase. Once you have developed a list of builders who are building the Be Thorough type and price range of home you are interested in, research their When selecting a builder, be thorough and ask a lot of questions. reputations and the quality of their work. The best way is to visit Get as many specifics as possible. If you receive the answers homes that they have built and talk to the owners. Ask the builders verbally, take notes. Never hesitate to ask a question because you on your list for the addresses of their recently completed houses, are afraid of sounding “stupid” or uninformed. What seems like a subdivisions, or townhouse communities. At the very least, drive by “stupid” question may yield a very important answer. and see if the homes are visually appealing. Buying a new home is probably the biggest and most important Look at homes that are the same style as you plan to buy. A good purchase you will make in your lifetime. By doing your new “home” time to visit is on a weekend morning when people are outside work to select a builder, you will instill in yourself and your family a doing chores. Introduce yourself and explain that you are sense of confidence and knowledge that you have made the right considering buying a home from the same builder who built their choice. home. If you have additional questions about selecting a builder, contact Ask about their satisfaction with the home and whether the your area’s Builders Association. Ask for a builder list that identifies builder delivered what was promised in a timely manner. Ask if they the price categories and subdivisions in which they build. Be sure to would buy another home from this builder. People will generally tell tour the Parade of Homes in the Fall and Spring. It is an excellent you if they are happy with their purchase. way to get familiar with the housing market in this area as well as Quality and Value individual builder’s products. When examining a home, look at the quality of the construction features: the cabinetry, carpeting, trim work, and paint. In viewing a home, you must determine whether it lends itself to the type of lifestyle you want to lead. Look at the amount of interior living space and how efficiently the space is used. Find out if the builder is incorporating state-of-the-art energy efficiency features, both in appliances and insulation.
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 55 SELECTING A CONTRACTOR
Every year hundreds of families are taken advantage of by 8. Make sure all required permits are secured and inspections are disreputable individuals or companies who represent themselves to made.The contractor should be expected to secure all necessary be reliable, reputable contractors. If you are planning to hire permits. Beware of contractors who want you to secure the someone to repair or make improvements to your property there are permit as the property owner. It is permissible to do so, but it is safeguards you can take to assure the best selection of a contractor very unusual that a reputable contractor will ask you to do this. for you. 9. Make sure you have a written contract with the contractor that Consider the Following details: 1. Hire only licensed contractors. Contractors are required to be a. A full description of all work to be done. licensed to do certain types of work. When selecting a contractor b. A firm date of completion you should make sure the contractor holds a current, valid c. Total cost of the job. license either issued by your city. d. Contractors license number. 2. All contractors do not possess the same expertise.Ask for e. All warranty information. references and check those references to assure yourself that f. Quality of materials to be used. the contractor is qualified to do the type of work you are wanting g. How and on what basis payments are to be made. done. h. How changes and payment for changes will be handled. 3. Check business references. Ask the contractor for a list of 10. Make sure complete architectural drawings are done and business references that you can call and verify that the agreed upon if you are having a room addition added, or relationships with suppliers and subcontractors are good ones extensive remodeling done. Be certain that detailed material and that the contractor pays his bills. specifications are also provided and made a part of the contract 4. Call the Better Business Bureau to find out if there are any you sign. complaints or charges pending against the contractor. 11. Monitor the work being done in accordance with the 5. Call local trade associations for information about selecting a contractual agreement with the contractor. If you have contractor. questions about what is being done or problems with the 6. Ask for proof from the contractor that he has general liability contractor, either ask questions or confront the problem head insurance and workers compensation insurance in order to on when it occurs in order to minimize any conflict and reach a protect you, as the property owner, against any claim in the event satisfactory resolve as quickly as possible. the contractor, his employees, or someone else is injured as a 12. Final payment should not be made until you are satisfied that result of work being done on your property. the job has been completed in accordance with the terms of the 7. Make sure the contractor you are contracting with will be contractual agreement between you and the contractor. personally involved in coordinating the work to be done on your property.
56 ] Bakersfield Information Guide MORTGAGE INFORMATION
You may have a difficult time deciding which type of home feature was designed to provide housing and assistance for mortgage is the best for your needs. The world of home finance veterans and their families, and the dream of home ownership offers so many variables and options that it’s often hard to keep became a reality for millions of veterans. VA will guarantee a them straight. The following may help you better understand the maximum of 25 percent of a home loan amount up to $104,250, differences and find a home loan that’s right for you. which limits the maximum loan amount to $417,000. Generally, the Fixed-Rate Mortgages are very popular because the interest rate reasonable value of the property or the purchase price, whichever and monthly payments are constant. Fixed loans are generally is less, plus the funding fee may be borrowed. All veterans must amortized over ten, fifteen, twenty or thirty years. Property taxes qualify, for they are not automatically eligible for the program. and homeowners insurance may increase, but generally your Interest-Only Mortgage is really an interest-only option that works monthly payments will be very stable. During the early amortization with various mortgage types. This option has regular payments, period, a large percentage of the monthly payment is used for typically monthly, for a fixed period of time; however, payments paying the interest. As the loan is paid down, more of the monthly consist of one hundred percent interest. No principal is paid during payment is applied to principal. A typical 30 year fixed rate the interest-only period. When that period ends, the borrower is mortgage takes 22.5 years of level payments to pay half of the obligated to make payments of principal and interest. Because the original loan amount. You may also opt for “biweekly” mortgages, time remaining in the loan term to repay the principal is shorter than which shorten the loan by making a payment every two weeks. it would have been, payments will adjust upward, sometimes (Since there are 52 weeks in a year, you make 26 payments, or 13 substantially. The appeal of interest-only payments is savings. When “months” worth, every year.) principal is not being paid, monthly payments are dramatically Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) is a loan which allows for the lower. On the risk side is potential for loss. If the need to sell arises adjustment of its interest rate according to the terms of the note and and the property value has stayed flat or declined, a borrower might as market interest rates change. With this type of mortgage loan be in a position where the mortgage loan balance is higher than the program the interest rate and payments may be adjusted as market value of the property. frequently as every month. The purpose of the program is to allow Balloon Mortgage Loan generally has a short term, commonly mortgage interest rates to fluctuate with market conditions. The anywhere from 3-7 years. During that term, borrowers make regular initial interest rate for an ARM is usually lower than that of a fixed equal payments of principal – the amount of money borrowed – plus rate mortgage, where the interest rate remains the same during the interest. At the end of the loan term, a “balloon” payment is due for life of the loan. A lower rate means lower payments, which might the entire loan balance. Options for handling the balloon payment help you qualify for a larger loan. Also if you do not plan to keep your include paying off the balance when due or refinancing before the home for more than a few years, the possibility of rate increases payment comes due. Balloon mortgages are usually offered at isn’t as much of a factor. But no one has a crystal ball to predict the lower interest rates than other fixed-rate loans. In addition, fluctuation of interest rates, so it is somewhat of a gamble. payments are calculated using a period longer than the term of the FHA Mortgage Loan is insured by the Federal Housing loan. As a result, balloon loans offer affordability for short-term Administration. FHA is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and circumstances. Borrowers do need to plan ahead so they are not Urban Development (HUD), one of its chief purposes is to help caught unprepared when the balloon payment is due. people obtain financing to buy their homes. The FHA doesn’t make Choosing a type of mortgage is not the only decision you must the loans, but insures loans made by banks, savings and loans, face. Several other criteria are listed below. mortgage companies, credit unions and other approved institutions. Hybrid Mortgage combines features of both fixed-rate and FHA does not originate loans. FHA insures the mortgage and pays adjustable-rate mortgages. A hybrid mortgage loan may start with the lender if the homebuyer defaults on the loan, or fails to repay the a rate that is fixed for a period of time. When that fixed-rate period loan. Almost anyone who has a satisfactory credit record, enough expires, the loan then converts to an ARM. The initial rate for a cash to close the loan, and sufficient steady income to make hybrid mortgage loan is typically lower than prevailing fixed rates. monthly mortgage payments can be approved for an FHA-insured The lower rate enables more buying power up front. On the risk side mortgage. There is no upper age limit and no certain income level is the uncertainty of how high interest rates will be when the fixed- required, although individual mortgage amounts are limited by law. rate period expires. VA Mortgage Loan is similar to the FHA mortgage. The U.S. Lending Institution are used When you’re looking for a home loan, Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees loans made by you might work with an officer at a bank or other lending institution, institutional lenders to eligible veterans. The guarantee helps protect or you might choose to work with a mortgage broker. The loan the lender in the event of the borrower’s default. The VA Loan was officers at a bank, credit union or other lending institution are initiated in 1944 through the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, more employees who work to sell and process mortgages originated by commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights. The GI Bill was signed into their employer. They often have a wide variety of loans types to law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and provided veterans with draw from, but all originate from that specific lender. a federally guaranteed home loan with no down payment. This continued on page 58
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 57 MORTGAGE INFORMATION
Mortgage Brokers are professionals who are paid a fee to bring certified professionals, and are used by lenders to verify the home’s together lenders and borrowers. The mortgage broker working to value and justify the mortgage commitment. secure your loan is earning a fee for that transaction—and the Appreciation is the increase in the property’s value, either by better deal they achieve for a lender, the more they are paid. Don’t improvement in the market or improvements made by the owner. be too anxious to disclose the interest rate you would be willing to Balloon Mortgage is a loan that acts like a fixed rate but is due in accept, let them tell you what terms they can secure. Shop around three, five or ten years. At that point you must pay the outstanding to make sure the terms are reasonable. balance in one lump sum. There should be little difference between obtaining a loan from a Buydown is the process of buying a lower interest rate by paying broker or a local lending institution. Maybe none, but you should be more points at closing. aware of the differences between the two positions. A mortgage Conventional Mortgage is a loan that is under $ 240,000 and broker may find you a lender in another part of the country. The loan meets Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards, the largest office will likely be able to offer more personal service while your loan purchasers of home mortgages on the secondary market. is being processed and once you are an established customer. Convertible Mortgage is an ARM with the option to convert to a Discount Points are fees paid to a lender at closing in order to fixed rate mortgage as specified in the contract. lower your mortgage interest rate. While buying points is sometimes FHA Loans are issued by FHA approved lenders. The FHA insures a good decision, many times the purchase costs you more than it its loans so that borrowers can get them with only 3 to 5% down saves. The cost of each point is equal to one percent of the loan payment. The FHA has certain criteria to qualify for these loans. amount. For instance, for a $100,000 loan one discount point equals $1,000. Each discount point paid on a 30-year loan typically Fixed-rate Mortgages are self amortizing loans with a constant rate lowers the interest rate by 0.125 percent. That means a 5.5 percent of interest. These loans are commonly for 10, 15. 20 or 30 year rate would be lowered to 5.375 percent if you purchase one point. periods. Paying for points lowers your interest rate, because the lender Interest Rate is what the lender charges for the use of their receives the income in a lump sum at closing rather than collecting money. Expressed as an annual percentage of the amount the interest as you make payments on your loan. Whether or not borrowed before financing expenses. paying points makes sense for you depends in part on how long Initial Interest Rate is what lenders charge on an ARM until the you plan to keep the loan. first adjustment is made. This rate is usually much lower than fixed rate mortgages. Helpful Mortgage Terms Jumbo Mortgages are loans greater than $ 227,150 with an Adjustable Rate Mortgage is a loan with a rate that adjusts to interest rate that is a quarter percentage higher than conventional market conditions. The rate of adjustment will be stated in the loans. contract. Lifetime Cap is the same as an annual cap except there is limit on Adjustment Index is a guide lenders use to change ARM interest how high the interest rate can increase over the entire life of the rates during the life of a mortgage. The specific index to which your mortgage. ARM is tied to will be listed in the mortgage contract. Loan Commitment is a promise by the lender to provide the Annual Cap is a limit on how high the interest rate on an ARM can agreed amount of money stated on the mortgage to close on a rise in a single year. Annual caps are specified in the better ARM home. The commitment also states the interest rate, term of loan, programs. and usually expires within 60 days. Annual Percentage Rate Equals the true cost of a loan including Loan Servicing is the institution that handles the administrative financing charges and fees. processing of your loan such as billing and collecting payments. Amortization is the process that reduces the amount owned in a Loan-to-Value Ratio is the proportional relationship of the loan. It can be made in a lump sum or periodic installments. mortgage loan to the value of a home, expressed as a percentage. Appraisal Value is estimating the property’s worth which is based on comparable properties. Appraisals that are completed by
58 ] Bakersfield Information Guide MORTGAGE INFORMATION
Mortgage Calculator You can obtain your property taxes from the local township office How much do you qualify for based on typical lender and you can contact your insurance agent for homeowner rates. requirements? Generally, the lender will require that your monthly Now, while shopping for your mortgage, you probably have payments not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Lets take discovered the current interest rate. Use the chart below; find the a look at how a lender would typically determine your ability to meet column, which applies to that rate. Follow the number down until monthly house payments. you find the number that is closest to your principal and interest First, determine your gross monthly income from all sources. payment. To the left of that you will find the loan amount for which Then multiply that amount by 28% to determine an approximate you probably qualify. If you intend to apply for a 90% loan, divide the allowable monthly payment. This payment includes principal, loan amount by .90 to calculate the price of the house that would interest, taxes and insurance. From this amount subtract taxes and require this monthly payment. insurance to arrive at your allowable principal and interest payment.
The example below illustrates this procedure: Gross Monthly Income $2,500 X 28% = $700 Less: Monthly Taxes & Insurance (100) = $600 12% Interest Rate for 30 years for $600= $60,000 $60,000/.90 (Loan to Value) =$66,667 = Estimated Maximum Home Price For Qualification
$ 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7% 7.5% 8% 8.5% 9%
100,000 500 550 600 650 700 750 800 850 900 150,000 750 825 900 975 1050 1125 1200 1275 1350 200,000 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700 1800
250,000 1250 1375 1500 1625 1750 1875 2000 2125 2250 300,000 1500 1650 1800 1950 2100 2250 2400 2550 2700
350,000 1750 1925 2100 2275 2450 2625 2800 2975 3150 400,000 2000 2200 2400 2600 2800 3000 3200 3400 3600 450,000 2250 2475 2700 2925 3150 3375 3600 3825 4050
500,000 2500 2750 3000 3250 3500 3750 4000 4250 4500 550,000 2750 3025 3300 3575 3850 4125 4400 4675 4950 600,000 3000 3300 3600 3900 4200 4500 4800 5100 5400
650,000 3250 3575 3900 4225 4550 4875 5200 5525 5850 700,000 3500 3850 4200 4550 4900 5250 5600 5950 6300 750,000 3750 4125 4500 4875 5250 5625 6000 6375 6750
800,000 4000 4400 4800 5200 5600 6000 6400 6800 7200 850,000 4250 4675 5100 5525 5950 6375 6800 7225 7650
900,000 4500 4950 5400 5850 6300 6750 7200 7650 8100 950,000 4750 5225 5700 6175 6650 7125 7600 8075 8550 1,000,000 5000 5500 6000 6500 7000 7500 8000 8500 9000
Bakersfield Information Guide [ 59 AIRLINES NATIONWIDE TRAVEL
Airlines Florida Air Academy receive leadership in every step of the land planning and training and an emphasis on community homebuilding process, bringing to life a American Airlines service. Other programs include an unified vision that weaves together Reservations call (800) 433-7300 excellent sports program, extensive location, community amenities and home Flights at your fingertips. For passenger computer curriculum and optional flight design. reservations and information call us or your training and SCUBA certification. travel agent. Two partners leading an innovative Florida Air Academy is located on company into a new era of homebuilding Continental Airlines Florida’s Space Coast and is fully and land development, operating from a Reservations call (800) 523-3273 accredited. Contact our Admissions quaint, historic office building in downtown Want to be treated with respect, fly the department for more information on Fall, Sacramento. Now, more than 30 years safe and courteous skies with Continental Spring, and Summer enrollments. later, the story is much the same, only the Airlines. For additional Information contact: setting is different: Partners John Reynen United Airlines Donna Stratford Director of Communication and Christo Bardis still lead the way, Reservations call (800) 241-6522 (321) 723-3211, Extension 30028 constantly striving to stay ahead of industry Serving more of the nations top 100 trends. The operation now spans two business centers than any other airline. Home Builders/Developers states and will be headquartered in a new, Small package dispatch, same-day airport Centex Homes 35,000 square foot building in Rancho to airport. 1840 S. Central Ave. CordovaÆs Mather Field Business Park, Visalia, CA 93277 large enough to accommodate land Car/Truck Rental (559) 733-2717 development and homebuilding operations. Avis Rent a Car www.centralvalleycentex.com Moving Supplies Reservations call (800) 331-1212 Centex Homes, founded in 1950, is one Offers low-mileage quality maintained of the nation’s leading home building Dial-A-Box GM and other cars. Computerized for fast I companies and consistently ranks among White Plains and The Bronx, NY service and low rates for day, week, or the largest multi-market, single-family Toll Free: (866) 4-DIAL-A-BOX / long term mini lease. homebuilders in the United States. Centex (866) 434-2522 www.dial-a-box.com Budget Rent a Car Homes is the only company to rank among Worldwide Reservations (800) 527-0700 the Top 10 U.S. homebuilders for more Nationwide Travel Right now, Budget has some great rates than 40 consecutive years, according to Bellagio The Resort on some equally great cars and trucks. So Professional Builder magazine. Your home and your neighborhood are special places. 3600 Las Vegas Blvd South don’t let them pass you by. For your local Las Vegas, NV 89109 or one-way rental choose from Budget’s They are where you nurture family, build lasting relationships and celebrate all that (702) 693-7223 World Class Fleet at the airport, or in your Experience a world unto itself at “the neighborhood. life brings. That is why, at Centex Homes, where you live is more than just brick and most romantic hotel in the world.” Budget Rent a Truck mortar to us. Whether we are building a • AAA Five Diamond Award winning resort. Worldwide Reservations (800) 527-0700 townhome or resort-style vacation house • Nine world-renowned restaurants Right now, Budget has some great rates for you, Centex Homes always strives to including Aqua, Prime, and AAA Five on some equally great cars and trucks. So offer prompt, courteous service from the Diamond Award-winner Picasso. don’t let them pass you by. first time you walk in our doors. Centex • “O” by Cirque du Soleil, an extraordinary Hertz Car Rental Homes’ professional sales staff enhances fusion of water, dance and aerobics. your home buying experience with insight Reservations call (800) 654-3131 • Via Bellagio- a collection of the worlds and counsel on home designs, Still the biggest, still the best We care most sophisticated boutiques from architectural and decorating options, about you. Customer service is the most Giorgio Armani, Chanel, Tiffany, and contract details, and information on your important thing we do. Biggest selection of Hermes. low-mileage cars. neighborhood and community. At Centex Homes, we back what we build with more • The Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Education 6-12 than five decades of construction charms guests with its natural beauty. Florida Air Academy experience and a reputation for striving to • Dancing Fountains cavort on an eight 1950 South Academy Drive exceed customer expectations that have acre lake. Melbourne, FL 32901 been nationally recognized. We would like Fairmont Hotels (321) 723-3211 to build the home of your dreams. Our goal Toll Free (800) 527-4727 www.flair.com is satisfied customers who recommend us www.Fairmont.com At Florida Air Academy, Cadets at have without reservation. Boston, Las Vegas, Dallas, New the opportunity to get a first-rate education Reynen and Bardis Orleans, New York, San Francisco & San geared to the learning styles of young men 10630 Mather Blvd Jose America’s Grand Hotels since 1907. and make friends from around the world. Sacramento, CA, 95655 Hilton Hotels The school accepts young men in grades (916) 366-3665 Worldwide Reservations 6 through 12. The Academy boasts a 16- www.rbcommunities.com Toll Free (800) 845-8667 student average class size and college With over 30 years of experience, www.Hilton.com prep curriculum taught by accredited staff, Reynen & Bardis Communities specializes Hilton Hotels, Resorts, Suites, Hilton many with advanced degrees. Cadets at
60 ] Bakersfield Information Guide NATIONWIDE TRAVEL NEW HOME DEVELOPMENTS
Garden Inn, Conrad International Hotel. • Live performances nightly from the Encanto Award-winning comedy of Rita Rudner. 11409 Eresma Drive Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Regency City 1200 Louisiana • The thrilling Manhattan Express Roller Bakersfield, CA 93311 (713) 654-1234 Coaster. (661) 654-0436 Worldwide Reservations Toll Free • COYOTE UGLY Bar and Dance saloon www.centralvalleycentex.com (800) 233-1234 and the Dueling Pianos at the Bar at At Encanto, in southwest Bakersfield, Times Square. you’ll find homes filled with popular MGM Grand features and living spaces designed for • New York City’s original Gallaghers 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South today’s lifestyles. The exteriors offer the Steakhouse. Las Vegas, NV 89109 warmth of traditional styling with accents of (702) 891-1111 • Be the toast of the town in the Big apple river rock and ledgestone, cozy front Searching for non-stop action and Bar with live entertainment nightly in “The porches, shutters and columned entries. pulse-pounding excitement? “The City of Greatest City in Las Vegas.” Tesoro Entertainment” awaits your arrival. • ZUMANITY, Another side of Cirque du 6310 Catarata Street Soleil, the creative climax of sexuality, • La Femme-the sensual French sensation Bakersfield, CA 93311 humanity and art. direct from the original Crazy Horse in (661) 654-0515 Paris. Pan Pacific Resort Hotels www.centralvalleycentex.com • Tabu´- The ultra hip lounge designed to Toll Free (800) 327-8585 At Tesoro you'll discover a new world in stimulate and arouse your senses. Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts. North home design combining classic style with • Live the nightclub lifestyle at studio 54sm. America, Japan, Southeast Asia. contemporary comforts. You’ll appreciate • Sixteen masterpiece restaurants including Worldwide Reservations and Information the array of exciting floor plans and celebrated chef Tom Colicchio’s call toll free (800) 327-8585 distinctively styled exteriors featuring Craftsteak and Michelle Mina’s NOBHILL. Treasure Island Traditional, Mediterranean and French • The king of the jungle overlooks the Lion 3300 Las Vegas Blvd. South Country architectural motifs. The open, Habitat. Las Vegas, NV 89109 spacious interiors are thoughtfully designed with an attention to detail and rich with • The Grand Garden Arena and Hollywood (702) 792-5627 amenities you might expect to find in Theatre feature top name entertainment. Enjoy the adventure and romance of this engaging resort filled with new-world custom homes. Mirage Hotel & Casino amenities. Wild Oak 3400 Las Vegas Blvd South ® 2012 Sestino Las Vegas, NV 89109 • AAA Four Diamond Award winning Delano, CA 93215 (702) 791-7111 resort. (661) 725-6847 Immerse yourself in this tropical South • World-famous pyrotechnic sea battle www.centralvalleycentex.com Sea oasis filled with luxury and excitement! between the pirate ship, Hispaniola, and the British frigate, H.M.S. Britania in the Nothing is more satisfying than the • Experience the elegance and peace and comfort that comes from sophistication of our newly redesigned middle of the Buccaneer Bay. • Mystere by Cirque du Soleil, a relaxing in your own home...especially in guest rooms. Delano's newest neighborhood, Wild Oak. • Dive into interconnected lagoon and mesmerizing mix of powerful acrobatics, thundering waterfalls at the new Mirage circus skills and dance. pool. • Eight exciting dining options including • Ten international restaurants including Kahunaville and Buccaneer Bay AAA Five-Diamond award winner Renoir. Restaurant-fine dining overlooking the explosive battle in Buccaneer Bay. • Exotic White Tigers, Lions and a family of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in Seigfried • A beautifully appointed wedding chapel. and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin • A tropical pool area and lavish spa and Habitat. salon • A fire-erupting volcano sparkling lagoons New Home Developments and tumbling waterfalls. Briarwood at Countryside • Dive into interconnected lagoon and 12507 Larkin Drive thundering waterfalls at the new Mirage Bakersfield, CA 93312 pool. (661) 410-0037 New York-New York www.centralvalleycentex.com 3790 Las Vegas Blvd. South Amazingly affordable with all of the style Las Vegas, NV 89109 and charm you would want in a (702) 740-6969 neighborhood, Briarwood at Countryside The best of New York City meets the offers several floor plans and exterior best of Las Vegas in one exciting location. designs including one and two-story Be a part of it. traditional homes. • ESPN ZONE sports-themed dining and entertainment.
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