This Big Bear cabin is perfectly located within 1 mile of both ski resorts and shopping and just a short walk to the Bear Mountain Resort shuttle stop and the local favorite Bear Belly Deli serving great breakfasts and lunch.  The moment you walk in this roomy Big Bear cabin you’ll be struck by a fabulous rock fireplace with wood burning stove, the warm centerpiece of the spacious great room.  After you hang your coat in the cedar lined closet, enjoy the natural light filling this room all the way up to the vaulted wood beamed ceiling.   Across the great room lies a vast kitchen and dining area complete with saloon doors that lead to a large pantry.  As you venture down the hall you’ll find a remodeled bathroom complete with large glass-enclosed shower and artisan hammered metal wash basin.  Two guest rooms pass on your way down the hall, the second has a bunk-loft, or perhaps it’s a pirate’s hideaway for grand children?  You have now reached the grand master bedroom with sunset windows to the right and a Jacuzzi tub to the left.   The view from this Jacuzzi tub is an elevated look at an expansive back yard complete with many gorgeous pines.  The South facing deck off of the kitchen/dining area is another great spot to bask in the sun and enjoy the views that this home affords.  This backyard has a horseshoe pit that overlooks a seasonal creek and with plenty of light and space, it is a gardener’s dream.  Other amenities that this home offers are an enclosed dog run that can access the deck. It also has plenty of off street parking, which is a key to obtaining maximum rental value if you should choose use this home as a source of income.  Follow the link to view 520 Catalina, to make an appointment to see this Big Bear Cabin for sale in person, contact Jason Schetter at 951-990-7210.

This two bedroom property is a lake lover’s dream, just a short walk to Big Bear Lake’s sheltered Metcalf Bay.   This beautiful bay is a great spot to launch a kayak or watch a famous Big Bear sunset.  This rustic cabin is situated on a level, sun filled, lot.  It has a kitchen/dining area with plenty of windows for morning sunlight and living room that features a beautiful rock fireplace.  A big bonus to this property is the large, detached, outbuilding .  This one room structure has a window and is drywalled with insulation; a great place to store your toys or convert to a studio guest house.  Proximity to the lake is not the only plus to the location of this house.  Local favorite, Log Cabin Restaurant and Performing Arts Center are just around the corner. You’ll also be less than ½ mile from great hiking, the Community Market, Azteca Mexican Grill, Big Bear Brewery Restaurant, and Alpine Slide snowplay/waterpark.  Call Jason Schetter for an appointment to see this affordable lake lovers dream.  (951) 990-7210

In our last blog we spoke about the refinishing of log homes. This time lets look at Big Bear homes that have a semi transparent or semi solid stain.

Most painting contractors will treat this type of home like a log home. First the contractor
(or you if you desire to tackle your home on your own) should always pressure wash the home, and use a mild cleaning solution for natural wood finishes. Pressure washing will remove most debris such as pollen, sap and dirt.

Always read the directions as most will recomend to wet the surface first. Be sure to  try to work in the shade and out of direct sunlight as material tends to dry sometimes faster then you might want.

Once the surface is wet, use a medium coarse nylon brush and scrub the cleaning solution into wood surface. Work in small sections at a time and rinse immediately after section is scrubbed. If you leave the cleaning solution on to long you may have areas of inconsistency where the product may loosen and eat through the stain on house. So work fast and be careful.

Allow home to dry several days before any work is done. If you have a moisture reader for wood that would be great. Next determine what type of sand paper should be used or a wire brush. When sanding or using a wire brush always sand with the grain of the wood and remove all loose stain from surface. When sanding is completed it is important again to clean all surfaces to remove debris left from sanding.  Before any stain is applied cover all areas around where the new stains are to be applied. Semi transparent stains tend to be very messy. If using painters drop cloths make sure they are the thicker canvas drops and it is always a good idea to use plastic under the drops. When applying this material you can use a airless and/or brush and rollers. Working with oil base stains and /or water base stains always follow the directions as the application May vary. One thing to remember is that multiple coats of semi transparent stains will eventually turn to a solid and the grain of wood will be lost. What i often do is apply one coat of stain to restore color to home then apply two coats of a clear sealer. By doing this the clear coat will protect the color underneath.  When the clear coat begins to fail after a couple of years it will appear to look dry. It is at this time another coat of clear can be applied, the color underneath will then become vibrant once again.

By doing this you  reduce the possibility of  multiple areas  of the house having uneven spots.  Remember to use compatible materials together, this will ensure longevity within your finishing of home.  And if that seems like a little to much to take on as a homeowner call us for all of your complete painting needs. One of the most important things working with stains is that all rags used must find there way to a container filled with water.   These rags will catch fire so please use extreme caution. When you are done with a rag it goes in the bucket of water.

Thanks again Kenny Washabaugh

Kenny’s Painting

(951) 264-8140

Hello my name is Kenny Washabaugh and the owner of Kenny’s painting serving the Big Bear Valley and all of Southern California.  I was asked by The Rahill Real Estate Group to share on the art of refinishing log homes here in The Big Bear Valley, and how to find a reputable painting contractor.

First the contractor you hire should be licensed, insured, bonded, and is recommended highly from the local paint stores. Check and make sure they have workmen’s comp on all employees.  If they are offended by the request move on. The contractor should then be able to determine what product was used prior. Was it a water base, oil base or log oil finish? This is important as it will determine how to prep the surface correctly. If weather and temperatures permit, pressure washing and scrubbing house with a med course level nylon brush and a log home cleaning solution works great to remove built up debris such as dust, pollens and pitch from trees. You do NOT sand first, as all these contaminates will then be embedded into the surface and weaken the bond of the new material used. Allow the home to dry from water for a few days, again depending on weather and temps.  In some cases this is all it needs and the house is ready for finish material to be applied.

In other cases this is only the beginning. Most homes will then need to be thoroughly sanded and cleaned using an array of different methods. The preparation is always the key to a great job and ensuring the longevity of the products used! Assuming you hire a painting contractor one should always then clean thoroughly and mask everything you don’t want covered in a oil or water base film due to overspray. Most contractors will use an airless to apply material and then brush as they go. The number of coats is to be determined by products used and the desired look to be achieved.  Building the finish material to a shine is not always the best thing to do. Read the directions on the cans and make sure your contractor can read as well. The directions are there for your protection.  Stay connected for more helpful hints for painting in the mountains from people you can trust!

Kenny’s Painting

(951) 264-8140

Make A Wish List
The beginning of the year is a great time to take an assessment of where you are and where you want to be. Clearing, cleaning and improving your current property is a great way to start.

If you are dreaming of finding a home in the mountains, take some time to list what you most desire and then search properties for sale to get ideas. Is a rustic mountain cabin more your style or do you envision a lakeside estate?

Create A Timeline
What time frame do you have in mind for moving? Creating a time line for change can help you budget and plan improvements that will help sell your current home while also getting a better return on investment if you do it right. It will also help you target the right time to connect with a Big Bear Realtor® for help in finding a new house.

Get Inspired
Need inspiration? Read magazines, visit home improvement stores for ideas and ask around for referrals for contractors or professionals to help. Don’t forget to bookmark favorite websites to round out the research. Preparing helps lower the stress–so take your time.

Set A Budget
Once you have the basics outlined, set a budget. Since holiday expenses precede the New Year, take a few months to ponder and plan. If you are doing improvements, price out materials, labor and plan for unexpected incidentals. Talk with your banker or financial advisor for additional suggestions and best strategies.

Pull The Proper Permits
Don’ forget to pull the proper permits for any home improvement projects that involve structural changes, plumbing, or electrical work. In most cases, the general contractor or trade professional you hire can assist with this.

Get Help
Find professionals through referrals and online research and don’t forget to ask friends and family members for help with smaller do it yourself projects.

If you are searching for a Realtor® in Big Bear, don’t hesitate to call the Rahill Real Estate Group at (909) 547-4402.

Alpine Slide (909) 866-4626 
800 Wildrose Lane in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve, 10:00 am- 5:00 pm
• Christmas Day, 11:00 am- 4:00 pm

Big Bear Snow Play (909) 585-0075
42825 Big Bear Blvd in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve, 10:00 am- 4:00 pm
• Christmas Day, 11:00 am- 4 :00 pm

Bowling Barn (909) 878-2695
40625 Lakeview Drive in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve, 10:00 am- 5:00 pm
• Christmas Day, Noon -10 :00 pm

Big Bear Fun Plex (909) 866-0066
40679 Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve Open, hours TBA
• Christmas Eve Open, hours TBA

Big Bear Alpine Zoo (909) 878-4200
43285 Goldmine Drive in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve, 10:00 am- 5:00 pm
• Christmas Day, CLOSED

Baldwin Lake Stables & Petting Zoo (909) 585-6482
46475 Pioneer Town Road in Big Bear City, CA

• Christmas Eve, last ride (1 hour) at 3:00 pm
• Christmas Day, Call for Reservations.

Snow Summit Ski Resort (909) 866-5841
880 Summit Boulevard in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve
  • Day Session* 8:00 am- 5 :00 pm
  • Night Session 3 :00 pm- 9:30 :00 pm
• Christmas Day
  • Day Session* 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
  • Night Session 3:00 pm- 9:30 :00 pm

*Day Session extends to 6:00 pm when Night Session is offered.

Bear Mountain Ski Resort (909) 585-2519
43101 Goldmine Drive in Big Bear Lake, CA

• Christmas Eve 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Christmas Day 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

Helicopter Big Bear (909) 585-1200
501 Valley Boulevard in Big Bear City, CA

• Christmas Eve Open, Call for Reservations.
• Christmas Day Open, Call for Reservations.

Big Bear Discovery Center (909) 382-2790
40971 North Shore Drive in Fawnskin, CA

• Christmas Eve, 8:30 am –2:00 pm
• Christmas day, CLOSED

Finally, don’t forget to mark your calendar for the New Year’s Eve torchlight parade at Snow Summit Ski Resort. The parade of skiers and snowboarders will start down the Miracle Mile at 7:00pm.

The end of the year is near and getting your house ready to showcase to potential buyers is a great strategy since serious home buyers are out shopping during a time when most people are distracted by the holidays.

For the best impact, use neutral, non-religious decor and get that homestead lit up with twinkling lights, pine cones, poinsettias, garlands, and other trimmings both inside and out.

Seasonal lighting can create a soothing, warm atmosphere while a crackling fire can further set the stage.

Don’t forget the use of scents such as pine, cedar, mulled cider, oven baked goodies, or even potpourri, since they can add to the enchantment.

The cold winter weather makes it an ideal time to create an inviting setting, so use comfy throws and create cozy little nooks here and there.

Consider adding a wreath, or other door decorations, and spend time enhancing the window treatments and fireplace mantel.

If your home features any unique architectural enhancements, consider highlighting them in some way.

Be sure to match your color scheme to avoid a clash and avoid using too many trimmings since you want to accentuate the assets not distract buyers.

Remember also that what some consider delightful, others might view as distasteful, so be conservative and use simple string lights not inflatables.

If you do decide to have a Christmas tree, make sure it isn’t overwhelming. Trim it using a simple color theme such gold and red or blue and silver.

Finally, make sure to clear out any clutter and keep each room looking spacious despite the extra holiday decor.

Rahill Realty hopes your holidays are wonderful and would enjoy helping you buy or sell a home in Big Bear. Don’t hesitate to call us at (909) 547-4402 to schedule a tour or with any questions.

The key to selling at the end of the year is to focus on both presentation and pricing. In fact, one local example is a home that just sold in Fawnskin. Following these rules, it was placed on the market and sold immediately–snapped up the very next day by an eager buyer.

One of the reasons houses in the valley are moving is that there is a high interest from buyers who have been waiting for the right time to buy. Their searches for Big Bear real estate are during a time when the number of houses for sale is lower. This means that competition for a buyer is lower as well and this fact works in the seller’s favor.

Prepping and staging in the late fall or winter when there is less competition for buyers is a great idea. The winter holidays just might be a perfect time to have a house on the market because if you are a full-time resident and take this time to vacation, there will not be any inconvenience or disruption when the home is shown or open houses are scheduled.

In general, the frequency of showing homes is lower during the holiday season but it also means that the good news is that the buyers who come up to look are serious. Many will make a mini-holiday by staying over to enjoy the enchanting winter amenities while doing their house hunting.

Winter weather this year has been unseasonably mild. However, to avoid having inclement conditions interfere with a home tour, make sure to arrange for regular snow removal. Taking the time to spruce up your home with seasonal decor to enhance the appeal in any conditions.

The Rahill Real Estate Group would love to help sell your home. Don’t hesitate to drop by or contact us today at (909) 547-4402.

If you are a new Big Bear home owner, there are some adjustments to high altitude living that might take you by surprise. We’ve shared some home winterization tips to help you in the transaction, but if you are commuting up and down the mountain, we thought some winter driving tips might be helpful.

Because winter driving conditions can be unpredictable, it is best to be prepared at all times. Harsh weather conditions can mean unexpected delays due to a variety of reasons and being prepared can keep you warm, comfortable and safe.

During the winter months take some of the following steps to prepare:

• Keep water, snacks, winter boots, gloves, hats, and blankets in your vehicle at all times.
• Be sure to store an emergency light and radio in the trunk for emergencies.
• Some regions of the mountains have little or no cell coverage so have an emergency contact that knows your itinerary.
• Check the condition of your tires and invest in spikes, show chains or cables. Make sure they fit!
• Keep a towel and ice scraper in the vehicle.
• Make sure your heating system is in working order and use winter weather additives for the windshield washer and radiator.
• Always keep the gas tank full since unexpected delays can use up extra fuel and power outages prevent fueling.
• Don’t forget to keep a charged cell phone and cell phone charger in your vehicle.
• Bring a flashlight or battery operated radio just in case.
• Slow down during your drive.
• Remember that if you brake during icy conditions, you will usually slide, so allow extra distance and time for stopping.
• Avoid blocking any roadway. Use turnouts for chain or cable installations or if other vehicles are lining up behind you.
• Avoid parking on the street since this interferes with snow removal and blocks snow plows.
• For road condition updates call 511.

Four your convenience, here are some of our previous Big Bear winterization articles:

• Big Bear Real Estate Winterization Tips
• Big Bear House Winter Preparation Tips
• Winterization Tips for Big Bear Houses

The Rahill Real Estate Group is dedicated to helping you buy or sell real estate in Big Bear. Don’t hesitate to call us at (909) 547-4402.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Rahill Real Estate Group.