lynne-olenak

Stan’s Donut Shop

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 01:44:10 GMT

Stan’s Donuts has been a community fixture in Santa Clara for more than six decades. When you visit the donut shop, located at 2628 Homestead Road, across the street from Central Park Library, with its long counter, quaint signs, and familiar faces, it is almost as if time stopped many years ago.

This family-owned, independent donut shop was established in April, 1959. Stanford Wittmayer, the “Stan” behind the shop, was a World War II veteran. He was married to his wife, Florence, known to family and friends as Tina, for 60+ years. Together, they had nine children, who each spent time working in the donut shop.

For many years, son Richard was the second hand to Stan. Working along side his father, he learned the business completely and eventually would take over the donut making and keep the legacy alive. Spending countless evenings and mornings at the shop, he continued making the donuts in the style of his father and was key in helping the business grow. Over the years, Rick trained and passed along the recipes and doughnut making style to Jesus Lopez who is now the head baker.

After the passing of the founders, Stan and Tina, several of their children are continuing the business using the same philosophy, attention to detail, consistency and care that their parents taught them.

We hope all who come here leave with a smile and a little bit of the spirit that Stan, Tina and the Wittmayer Family have created.

No frills, no thrills. Just simply the best donut shop in the South Bay, possibly the Bay Area. They make the best glazed donuts around. You cannot beat it- you just cannot not!! They also make a mean maple donut.

Tip: CASH ONLY

Stan’s warm glaze donuts are the reason there is usually a long line. They have a variety of donuts but their glaze is what they are known for. There is something about it that makes it so delicious.

Best Coffee in Town – Voyager Craft Coffee

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 23:46:11 GMT

Specialties

At Voyager, we source, roast, brew, and serve some of the best coffee on this green Earth. Above all else, though, we try to make people happy. We believe each interaction is a gateway to build a relationship. We try to maximize that opportunity.

History

Borne out of an intense desire to usher in a new paradigm within specialty coffee, Voyager started humbly, with a coffee cart and two optimistic people. We wanted to bring new & intense & unique & challenging flavors to coffee + an environment unlike any other cafe’s. Those were the goals we started with, and they’re still precisely our goals.

Meet the Business Owner

We were inspired to start a speciality coffee company in our hometown of San Jose after a lifelong of working in, and living with, coffee ourselves. Coffee shops have the power to build a community and safe gathering space, an atmosphere that enables people to connect and share ideas.

We thought our relational focused approach to people could serve as a catalyst to build the epitome of such an environment.

Visit Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/voyager-craft-coffee-santa-clara?osq=coffee

Santa Clara Central Park

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:51:42 GMT

A fifty-two acre park, Central Park has major facilities. The area west of Saratoga Creek contains group and individual picnic facilities, children’s play area, public restrooms, amphitheater, parking, two lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, the Veterans Memorial, and a 30,000 square foot Community Recreation Center, which is the hub of the City’s recreation programs.

East of the creek is the world famous George F. Haines International Swim Center, Bob Fatjo Sports Center which includes the Tony Sanchez Field (named for the former Parks & Recreation Department Sports/Aquatics Coordinator) as well as a second lighted softball field, the Santa Clara Tennis Center with 8 lighted tennis courts and practice wall, open space, a lake, large group picnic areas, parking, public restrooms, a lawn bowling green, exercise course, and the Central Park Library.

Fifty-seven United States Flags are flown on designated holidays at the front of Central Park along Kiely Blvd. The 9′ x 6′ flags were donated by Mission City Community Fund, with funds provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars. This display of flags is also replicated on holidays in front of the City cemetery with 21 additional flags. Collectively, these two flag displays are referred to as the City of Santa Clara’s “Avenue of Flags.”

Listed are the dates that the flags will be flown at Central Park:

Presidents Day: 3rd Monday in February
Memorial Day: Last Monday in May
Flag Day: June 14
Independence Day: July 4
Labor Day: 1st Monday in September
Veterans Day: November 11

Features

Building
Picnic Area
BBQs
Restrooms
Swimming Pool
Basketball courts
Softball Fields
Tennis Courts
Lawn Bowls
Play area

Photos

Things To Buy After You Purchase Your Home

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:48:10 GMT

Here’s why you need a budget for the purchases you want to make for your new home

The search for a home is a long one. After months of searching and weeks with the lender, it can feel like your dream home is never going to come together. When you finally make it to the closing table, you might think that everything is finished, and you can finally rest easy in your perfect new place.

Then reality hits.

The truth is, once you purchase a home, there’s still a lot of work to be done – namely shopping for the furnishings and accessories that will make the space yours. For many first-time homebuyers, it’s easy to forget about all of the things you’re going to need in a home. After all, most apartments come equipped with appliances and accessories. The worst part is that once you’ve signed and closed on the house, your savings might be looking a little dismal. Here are a few ways you can save money on those new purchases that you need to complete your home.

Keys and locks: Make sure you re-key your doors. Most people lend out keys to neighbors, family
members, and even coworkers. The last thing you want is to have someone uninvited use their guest
key, thinking the previous owners still live in your home.

The most inexpensive solution is to remove the locks from your doors and have your local hardware
store re-key them. New locks are going to be expensive, so this is an easy sidestep. Best of all, you and your new purchase will be secure.

Lawnmower and garden equipment: As an apartment dweller, you probably didn’t give much thought to landscaping. Unless you’re planning to have a gardener, you’re going to need to buy a lawnmower and other lawn care tools. Instead of purchasing a brand-new mower, consider checking out Craigslist or local resale shops. Most of the time, lawnmowers only need a bit of TLC, and they’re just like new again.

The same goes for garden supplies. Not only does every house need a hose, but you should also
consider picking up shovels, rakes, and a Weed-Wacker. Again, the best places to look for these are in secondhand shops, since they’re generally in good condition. Don’t forget about a push broom if your new home has a garage or a watering can and wagon if you’re planning to do any intensive landscaping.

Tools: Your new home needs a toolbox for unexpected emergencies. Toolboxes can be expensive, so check out yard sales and estate sales before buying brand new. In addition to the toolbox, you should have the following:
 Assorted sandpaper
 Assorted screws and nails
 Ball hammer and claw hammer
 Basin wrench
 Flathead and Philips screwdriver
 Hacksaw
 Nail driver
 Pliers
 Plumbers wrench
 Small power drill and drill bits
 Staple gun
 Tape measure
 Wire nuts

When you’re outfitting your toolbox, you might also consider purchasing tools for upcoming renovation or painting projects, such as the following:
 Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
 Five-gallon container for mixing paint
 Paint brushes – 1 inch to 4 inches
 Paint scraper
 Paint screen, roller, sleeves
 Steel brushes

Outdoor entertaining: lawn chairs, patio furniture, and assorted outdoor miscellany are basic starter
items for a backyard patio. These can add up, so look for items on sale or at secondhand shops.
Snow removal: Many cities have laws about snow removal, and as a homeowner, you might be liable
and responsible for removing it along with ice. Snowblowers can be expensive, but you might be able to find one on Craigslist that’s gently used.

Window coverings: One of the most exciting parts about owning a home is decorating it any way you
want. That means you get to decide the type of window coverings you want. If your budget is maxed, consider using self-adhesive paper blinds. These come with clips and are attached by peeling the
adhesive covering from the back. It’s a very inexpensive way to get the look of stained glass, and don’t cost much at all.

Appliances: Depending on your agreement with the previous owner, all or some of the appliances might have come with the house. If a range, refrigerator, washer, and dryer didn’t come with your home, buying used is a great option. At least this way, you’ll have the bare minimum until your savings recovers.

Linens and floor coverings: With new paint colors on the walls comes the need for fresh linens and
towels. You might also need to purchase bath and area rugs to match your modern décor. Check out
bargain stores that specialize in these products for low prices.

Pets: If you’ve always wanted a four-legged pal ,but were prohibited because you rented, now’s your
chance to add to the family! Consider adopting from a local shelter instead of using a breeder or mill.
Make sure your home is pet-friendly before you bring it to your new digs.

Also, make sure you have the time and attention to dedicate to training a new puppy or kitten.
Sometimes an older pet makes a great choice because it will require less attention and correction from you. Adoption from a local shelter can help save an animal from being euthanized. Since some pet stores sell pets carrying diseases, a shelter is always the right choice.

When you’ve finally signed on your dream home, it can feel like you’ve come to the end of a journey.
The reality is the journey is just beginning. This is an exciting time, and with the right financial finesse, you can have your new place housewarming-party ready in no time!

The Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:58:30 GMT

The Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist

You absolutely need to hire a home inspection – here is why.

There is so much going on in your life right now as you head to the closing table. One sure fire way to ease the stress of buying a home is to make sure that you hire a quality home inspector. If you think an inspection is not worth the money, think again. To make things easier for you, we have compiled the most comprehensive home inspection checklist for first time homebuyers.

First, understand what you are buying
First time homebuyers often wrongly assume that an inspection is not worth the cost. The truth is that it is a critical part of the home buying process. Most requirements for home inspections vary by state, and your lender might have specific requirements for an inspection – or they might not require one at all. That does not mean you should skimp on this necessary purchase.

Make sure that you hire a certified home inspector. There are plenty of databases that you can search. Look for certifications from either NAHI, ASHI, or InterNACHI. If you are not sure where to start, ask your agent. Chances are they have a list of vetted, qualified inspectors with whom they work regularly. If you are not using an agent, ask your lender.

No matter how you find your inspector, make sure that you follow this simple guide.
1. Check the licensing requirements in your state.
2. Vet and review all online recommendations for the inspector.
3. Ask to see a sample inspection report and review to make sure it is clear.
4. Know what is covered during the inspection and what is not.
5. Let the inspector know you will be present during the inspection.

What does an inspector do?
A good home inspector will thoroughly review your home and identify anything that might be a
problem. These could range from obvious issues or potential issues that might crop up later on. When you hire an inspector who has been in the business for a while, you are going to be protected both now and in the future. Be sure you have reviewed your contract to see if there is a home inspection contingency. This contingency might limit the amount of time you have to complete your inspection.

Just because you have the perfect inspector does not mean your work is done. You should be involved in the inspection process because this is your home! It is important to know as much about it as possible.

Here is what you will need to do both during and after the inspection.

// The Ultimate Inspection Checklist //

Make sure you go to the inspection
All you have to do is show up. This is super important because it allows you to find out about any
potential issues right from the start. Of course, you do not need to follow your inspector around. During the inspection is the perfect time for you to plan out how you are going to arrange rooms or measure windows and floors for new curtains or rugs.

Make a list of what should be inspected.
Your inspector is going to come with a preplanned list of areas to inspect, but you should not just rely on that checklist. As the buyer, it is crucial that you have your own checklist too. There is naturally going to be overlap with your list and the inspectors, but that is okay.

Here are some areas that you should include on your checklist:
 All appliances that come with the home
 All doors and windows
 Attic
 Basement
 Crawl spaces
 Electric wiring – this includes the electric panel, light switches, power outlets
 Exterior – paint, brick, stones, stucco, driveway
 Foundation
 Garage
 HVAC system and thermostats
 Plumbing – this includes fixtures, faucets, water heater
 Porches and balconies
 Rain gutters and downspouts
 Stairs, railings, banisters
 The roof
 Walkways
 Walls, floors, ceilings

Know what is covered and what is not
Some things are not covered during a routine home inspection. Most inspectors will limit their liability
based on the amount that you have paid. In other words, if you want something more thorough, you are going to have to pay up if you want it professionally checked. Alternatively, you can do it on your own.

Other areas to consider during an inspection are:
 Drainage
 Fireplace and chimneys
 Floors underneath the carpet
 Lawn sprinklers
 Pest infestation
 Sewer lines and septic tank
 Strange odors
 Swimming pool and equipment
 Trees and landscaping

If you are purchasing a home during the colder months, remember that snow or ice can prevent an
inspector from reviewing the roof and driveway. Try to schedule at a time when these areas are clear.

Take photos and notes
Protect yourself and your future investment by taking photos of anything the inspector discovers. This will help if the seller is hesitant to fix certain things. Taking notes is a good idea, too, and make sure you ask your inspector any questions about things that are not clear.

Carefully review the report
Even though you were present for the inspection, there might be things that you missed. That is why it is important to read the report very carefully. Your inspector will likely take a few days to compile the information and return it to you. That is to be expected; do not let it worry you.

After you have read the report, you should make sure to do the following.
1. Take notes of anything confusing.
2. Call the inspector and ask questions or set a meeting to clarify confusing sections of the report.
3. Ask for an opinion on the estimated cost of repairs. Not all inspectors will give you a number, but some might.
4. If significant repairs are needed, call several contractors to get estimates.
5. Then, call your real estate agent to discuss the report.

If the home inspection reveals major issues that the seller did not disclose, you might want to reconsider purchasing the home. Minor repairs are not that big of a deal, but major problems can become costly quickly.

A home inspection is a valuable tool for you to evaluate the condition of the home and determine if the repairs that are needed are worth the cost. Inspections allow you to understand the condition of your home thoroughly. Instead of relying only on the home inspector, make sure you do your due diligence and perform your own inspection. Couple your efforts with a reputable, having a qualified home inspector means there is one less thing to worry about during this exciting time.

Understanding the Escrow Process and Requirements

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:49:45 GMT

Understanding the Escrow Process and Requirements

Escrow does not have to be confusing or intimidating. When you understand the process and requirements, it is easier to prepare.

Escrow is one of those real estate terms that is thrown around a lot. For first time homebuyers, it can feel like a confusing and complicated process. There is so much that goes into buying a home. After the offer, then comes the inspection, plus getting financing, and securing insurance. One of the most challenging parts of this process is understanding escrow.

Escrow is the period between when the seller accepts the offer, and the buyer gets the keys. Follow this simple step-by-step process to help you navigate this part of the home buying process the best.

Open an account

The first thing you need to do after agreeing on a price and signing a purchase agreement is to open an escrow account. Your real estate agent will collect earnest money and put in into the account. An outside party manages it on behalf of two agreeing parties until specific conditions are met. The escrow company collects money and documents involved in the closing process. This includes the earnest check, loan documents, and signed deed.

Wait for the bank

As the buyer, you usually will have to pay the bank or lending provider to conduct its appraisal of the property. The lender does this to protect its financial interests. If the evaluation comes in lower than the offer price, the lender will not give you financing. You might be able to change the appraiser’s mind if you are able to provide additional information on why you believe the home should be appraised at a higher amount. You could also get a second appraisal. If you are not able to secure funding, you are able to cancel the purchase contract.

Secure financing

You are probably already pre-approved for a mortgage, and once you give your lender the property address, it can prepare a good faith estimate. The good faith estimate is also called a statement that details the amount of your loan, interest rate, closing costs, and all other costs associated with your new home purchase. Often, you can negotiate on the numbers before you sign.

Approve seller disclosures

During this portion of the escrow process, you should receive written notification of any problems that are already known about the property. These problems are probably previously known since they are often mentioned in the listing.

Have the home inspected

It is in your best interest to obtain a home inspection even though you are not required to do so. A professional inspection will alert you to anything dangerous or costly about your new home. You want to know about these things ahead of time, so you can negotiate the selling price or ask the seller to fix them. Keep in mind you cannot negotiate seller concessions at this point if the contract says the purchase is “as is.”

Pest inspection

Just like a home inspection, pest inspections are not always required by the lender. However, it is in your best interest to get one. Making sure there are not termites, carpenter ants, or other pests will give you peace of mind. In addition, these pests are often not present during the daytime when you have been to see the property. Resolve pest issues before you move in, assuming you want to move forward with the purchase.

Environmental inspection

Environmental inspections evaluate your new home for toxins like mold and asbestos. These problems can be severe health concerns and might be exceptionally expensive to fix.

Other inspections

If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes or floods, you should consider inspections to evaluate for these potentials. If a home is likely to flood, you are not going to be able to get homeowner insurance, which means you cannot get a mortgage.

Buy hazard insurance

Hazard insurance is anything that is required based on your specific region like flood insurance. You are going to be required to have homeowner’s insurance for the duration of your mortgage. Hazard insurance will help protect you in the event of a natural disaster.

Title report and insurance

Your lender requires both, and even if it were not needed, you would want them anyway. The title report makes sure that the property title is free and clear and there are no existing liens on it. Title insurance protects both you and your lender from legal challenges that could arise later. The seller has to remedy all issues with the title before the sale proceeds. In some locations, the escrow company and the title company are often the same.

Final walk-through

One final walk-through is a great idea just before closing. This makes sure there is no new damage to the property, and the seller has left all of the agreed-upon appliances and fixtures. Generally, you are not going to be able to back out of the sale until its sustained serious damage.

Review the HUD-1

The HUD-1 form is a final statement of loan terms and closing costs. Look at the good faith estimate from the beginning of the home buying process and compare the numbers. They should look very similar. Make sure you double-check for unnecessary charges and outright mistakes.

lynne-olenak

Stan’s Donut Shop

Best Coffee in Town – Voyager Craft Coffee

Specialties

History

Meet the Business Owner

Santa Clara Central Park

Features

Photos

Things To Buy After You Purchase Your Home

The Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist

The Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist

Understanding the Escrow Process and Requirements

Understanding the Escrow Process and Requirements ﻿

Understanding the Escrow Process and Requirements