Ben Ottmar's Blog

Posted on 08/15/2022

Top ideas for outdoor fireplaces: Brick, stone & more

For homeowners considering outdoor fireplaces, brick is often the first choice of building material. Brick fireplaces are timeless and practical, adding cozy style to any outdoor space. However, there are other material options and designs to consider if you want to find the best fit for your home. Here is a basic guide to some of the most...

Brick Fireplace

Chiminea

+ 9 more

Posted on 08/12/2022

Pacific Grove, CA Real Estate Market Update 8/12/2022

Click here to view Pacific Grove, CA blog post which has information on the constantly changing market...

Posted on 08/08/2022

The Most Common Types of Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands have been popular in modern homes for decades. The appeal of the open-concept kitchen creates a need for more counter space while still keeping an open and inviting feel. There are many types of kitchen islands and different ways to implement them in your own space. If you’re thinking of adding a kitchen island as part...

Posted on 08/05/2022

Pebble Beach, CA Real Estate Market Update 8/5/2022

Click here to view Pebble Beach, CA blog post which has information on the constantly changing market...

Posted on 08/05/2022

Video Tour - 1062 Amador Avenue, Seaside, CA 93955

Are you dog-tired of looking at 40, 50 or even 70+ year old homes? And disappointed with 'peaks' or is it 'peeks' of the Bay? Maybe you should take a look at this youngster (27 years old) in the Grey Eagle Terrace Tract with stellar views of Point Pinos, the entire Monterey Bay to the West, the San Lucia Mountains to the South and city roof tops to the North. More photos coming soon. In the meantime, call your favorite agent for a private preview while we get everything ready for the final...

Posted on 08/05/2022

1062 Amador Avenue, Seaside, CA 93955 is now new to the market!

Are you dog-tired of looking at 40, 50 or even 70+ year old homes? And disappointed with 'peaks' or is it 'peeks' of the Bay? Maybe you should take a look at this youngster (27 years old) in the Grey Eagle Terrace Tract with stellar views of Point Pinos, the entire Monterey Bay to the West, the San Lucia Mountains to the South and city roof tops to the North. More photos coming soon. In the meantime, call your favorite agent for a private preview while we get everything ready for the final...

Posted on 08/04/2022

Another Property Sold - 700 Briggs Street, Pacific Grove, CA 93950

It's all about the view ... and the view. And one more thing, did we mention the view? Of the 80+ units in Monarch Pines, only four have front row seats to the bay. And we're one of them! Imagine spending your retirement years in one of the most desirable parks on the Central Coast AND waking up every morning to this spectacular seascape. First time on the market in over 29...

Posted on 08/01/2022

Power outages: What to do in the middle of one

Power outages happen for a variety of reasons like storms, grid issues, damage to components of the grid and many others. While a power outage may not be considered as directly dangerous as what may cause a power outage, there are still facets to keep in mind. Here are some tips for making it through a power outage:...

Emergency Preparedness

Home Safety

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Posted on 07/29/2022

Carmel Valley, CA Real Estate Market Update 7/29/2022

Click here to view Carmel Valley, CA blog post which has information on the constantly changing market...

Posted on 07/25/2022

Home checklist for fire safety and prevention

House fires can do tremendous damage to your home and also put your household's lives at risk. It's crucial to practice fire safety and prevention, so you and your house members are prepared in case a fire does happen. Taking steps to prevent fires from occurring helps reduce the risk of having to deal with these fires. The...

Emergency Planning

Emergency Preparedness

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Posted on 07/22/2022

Carmel, CA Real Estate Market Update 7/22/2022

Click here to view Carmel, CA blog post which has information on the constantly changing market...

Posted on 07/18/2022

Grass seed: Fescue lawns & how to maintain them

Knowing how to care for your lawn means knowing how and when to fill in gaps with grass seed. Fescue grass is a popular variety of perennial lawn grass that, despite being tolerant of many climate zones, is prone to brown patches during hot, humid summer months. Using grass seed effectively is the best way to remedy the...