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Friday, July 31, 2009
Carpe Diem Chicago Real Estate Blog: Sleek Lincoln Park Row Home..Priced Right.
http://956wdickens.rubloff.com/
Sleek Lincoln Park Row Home..Priced Right.
Out of country Buyers have returned
Internationally optimism about the immediate future trend of Vancouver real estate must have returned because out of country Buyers are back and are buying. Their optimism confirms what Realtors have seen in the Vancouver market.
Bye Bye Beta: New AdWords interface out of beta
(Editor's note: This is partial cross post from the Official Asia Pac Agency blog).
Back in March, we rolled out a new AdWords interface for businesses in Australia and New Zealand. When we started building this new interface, we asked ourselves two questions. First, how can we help you get your work done faster? Second, how can we help you find the right tools at the right time to get the best possible performance out of your AdWords campaigns? Today we feel we've made great progress towards those goals, and the new interface is coming out of beta.
We've heard from many Australian and New Zealand advertisers that the new interface has made a material difference to their businesses. Advertisers have saved time with quicker editing, reporting, and account navigation, and improved campaign performance by using better integrated tools to refine their targeting.
In the past months, we've continued to make improvements to the new AdWords interface on a regular basis, fixing issues in response to advertiser feedback and rolling out new features to improve campaign management. Recently, we've added features like spreadsheet editing to support bulk changes to keyword lists, in-line editing to cut the time it takes to make changes, and new in-context help modules to give you answers in the right place at the right time. And we're not done yet -- the new AdWords interface is built on an infrastructure that lets us develop features more quickly than in the past. Stay tuned for new features like location extensions to simplify the local advertising process and custom alerts to help you stay on top of changes in your account's performance. These updates and more will be released to all advertisers in the coming months.
Now that the new interface is out of beta, we're upgrading a larger number of accounts to use the new interface exclusively. If you have questions about the interface, please consult the new interface microsite or check out to a webinar we recently recorded for Australian and New Zealand advertisers.
Finally, we'd like to say thank you to everyone who has helped us test the new AdWords interface over the past five months. Your feedback has been invaluable in making AdWords what it is today. And as always, if you have any comments or requests, please let us know.
We've heard from many Australian and New Zealand advertisers that the new interface has made a material difference to their businesses. Advertisers have saved time with quicker editing, reporting, and account navigation, and improved campaign performance by using better integrated tools to refine their targeting.
In the past months, we've continued to make improvements to the new AdWords interface on a regular basis, fixing issues in response to advertiser feedback and rolling out new features to improve campaign management. Recently, we've added features like spreadsheet editing to support bulk changes to keyword lists, in-line editing to cut the time it takes to make changes, and new in-context help modules to give you answers in the right place at the right time. And we're not done yet -- the new AdWords interface is built on an infrastructure that lets us develop features more quickly than in the past. Stay tuned for new features like location extensions to simplify the local advertising process and custom alerts to help you stay on top of changes in your account's performance. These updates and more will be released to all advertisers in the coming months.
Now that the new interface is out of beta, we're upgrading a larger number of accounts to use the new interface exclusively. If you have questions about the interface, please consult the new interface microsite or check out to a webinar we recently recorded for Australian and New Zealand advertisers.
Finally, we'd like to say thank you to everyone who has helped us test the new AdWords interface over the past five months. Your feedback has been invaluable in making AdWords what it is today. And as always, if you have any comments or requests, please let us know.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
HST and real estate - update
John Tillie, president of the BC Real Estate Association, wrote in the Vancouver Sun today that the province is offering a partial rebate of the provincial portion for the 12% HST on new homes up to $400,000 and a flat rebate of $20,000 for new homes over $400,000. The logic for this is that people buying at or below the median price will "generally be fully protected from a tax increase".
Many Buyers cannot afford to complete on new development at the moment and properties completing in the next two to three years have already been sold to Buyers who did not count on a large additional cash expense. Buyers of new development will seek to recover the extra tax when selling their property which would decrease affordabilty of BC housing.
The different real estate organizations in BC are negotiating on how to best negotiate this subject with the provincial government. Let's hope Buyers of new homes will not have to pay 7% more tax.
Many Buyers cannot afford to complete on new development at the moment and properties completing in the next two to three years have already been sold to Buyers who did not count on a large additional cash expense. Buyers of new development will seek to recover the extra tax when selling their property which would decrease affordabilty of BC housing.
The different real estate organizations in BC are negotiating on how to best negotiate this subject with the provincial government. Let's hope Buyers of new homes will not have to pay 7% more tax.
Google Australia hosts Young Leaders Network
(Editor's note: This is a guest post by Rebecca Trewick of the Young Leaders Network)
On the evening of July 15, Google hosted a Young Leaders Network event titled "Innovation in Leadership', bringing together around 80 of Sydney's most active and talented young leaders. The Young Leaders Network (YLN) is a new and independent project started by Michael Cao, a recent graduate from Macquarie University, which aims to connect and develop young people who lead not-for-profit organisations.
Attendees included the managing director of the Brightest Young Minds Foundation, the president of the UTS Union, vice president of the University of Sydney union, the chair of Arc, as well as leaders from the Australian Youth Climate Change Coalition, AIESEC, SIFE, and dozens of other youth-run clubs, societies, charities and other student groups.
The night featured presentations on Google history, online marketing strategy, and a very popular live demo of Google Docs and Sites to assist the young leaders with communication and developing an online presence. This was followed by an engaging Q&A session with a panel of Googlers. The discussion focused on Google's management philosophy and how their motto of "don't be evil" is reflected in their business practices.
This exciting event received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from YLN members as everyone took something away from the evening. Emma Lovell, last year's winner of Volunteer of the Year at UTS and active member and leader in 85 Broads said: "Being able to attend an event and meet a whole room full of leaders and entrepreneurial young people like myself was such a great experience. Where else could I find such a high calibre of people all in one room? The discussions are on a higher level and we can directly tackle each other's issues within our clubs and our broader networking associations."
After the event, the night kicked on at Astral Bar with networking drinks kindly sponsored by the UTS Union Ltd. The YLN would like to thank Google for their assistance in making it a truly enjoyable and rewarding evening.
On the evening of July 15, Google hosted a Young Leaders Network event titled "Innovation in Leadership', bringing together around 80 of Sydney's most active and talented young leaders. The Young Leaders Network (YLN) is a new and independent project started by Michael Cao, a recent graduate from Macquarie University, which aims to connect and develop young people who lead not-for-profit organisations.
Attendees included the managing director of the Brightest Young Minds Foundation, the president of the UTS Union, vice president of the University of Sydney union, the chair of Arc, as well as leaders from the Australian Youth Climate Change Coalition, AIESEC, SIFE, and dozens of other youth-run clubs, societies, charities and other student groups.
The night featured presentations on Google history, online marketing strategy, and a very popular live demo of Google Docs and Sites to assist the young leaders with communication and developing an online presence. This was followed by an engaging Q&A session with a panel of Googlers. The discussion focused on Google's management philosophy and how their motto of "don't be evil" is reflected in their business practices.
This exciting event received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from YLN members as everyone took something away from the evening. Emma Lovell, last year's winner of Volunteer of the Year at UTS and active member and leader in 85 Broads said: "Being able to attend an event and meet a whole room full of leaders and entrepreneurial young people like myself was such a great experience. Where else could I find such a high calibre of people all in one room? The discussions are on a higher level and we can directly tackle each other's issues within our clubs and our broader networking associations."
After the event, the night kicked on at Astral Bar with networking drinks kindly sponsored by the UTS Union Ltd. The YLN would like to thank Google for their assistance in making it a truly enjoyable and rewarding evening.
How to Submit a Real Estate Short sale: What you need to know
How to Submit a Real Estate Short sale: What you need to know...
Submitting the Short Sale
So you have met with(or are) the homeowner and have the property on the market getting the proper exposure. Now it’s time to prepare the documents and submit for a short sale. This is the most time consuming part of the Short Sale process especially if you do not stay organized and take notes on all your conversations with the lenders.
What the real estate agent will need:
CMA: With the current Active, Pending, and Sold properties going 90 days back(close of escrow)
Listing Contract: The Listing Contract, Short Sale Addendum, and MLS printout.
Offer to Purchase: Retail offer to purchase on the subject property
What needs to be provided to the lender(Including everything listed above):
Financial Worksheet: Shows your assets, liabilities, and expenses. Great tool for presenting the borrowers current “hardship” to the lender.
Proof of income: You will need the last 2 pay stubs and last 2 years W2's. If you are self-employed, you will need last 2 years tax returns and a Profit and Loss statement for the past 3-6 months.
Bank Statements for the past 2 months: Showing balances and spending history.
Hardship Letter: This is where the borrower has the opportunity to “state their case” to the lender. Why did the situation occur? Why do you need to sell? What is going on with your hardship now?
Last 2 years of tax returns: All pages are needed and if you filed an extension, submit the extension paperwork.
Once you have all of the paperwork together, send it all at once and as soon as possible. Make sure it's complete and legible. Also, make sure you are constantly following up because the lenders a overwhelmed with requests and sometime lose track of progress. There is a long line of borrowers ahead of you so if the file is missing anything, you will get notice but the file will go to the bottom of the pile again.
Oliver Graf
Real Estate Expert
Follow me on Twitter: Twitter.com/OliverGraf360
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Real Estate Submit Short Sale
Real Estate Short Sale
Real Estate Avoid Foreclosure
San Diego Based Real Estate Blog
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
HST and real estate
Is HST going to be applied to the purchase of newly built real estate? Will Buyers of new development after mid 2010 have to pay 12% HST on the purchase price instead of the current 5%GST? I hope Real Estate organizations will be able to negotiate an exemption of the additional 7% tax on purchases of newly built real estate as the restaurant owners have done for their purchases/sales.
Back to the old market of 2008?
In many areas demand is increasing at a higher rate than supply. In areas like Kitsilano and Downtown Vancouver reasonably priced new listings are snapped up shortly after listing. It is again difficult to set up a series of showings because so many of the properties on MLS have accepted offers and many Seller's Realtors will not go the extra mile any more to give access.
However there are some great buys in buildings where developers are quietly selling condos the first Buyer has defaulted on - the selling price is now much lower than at the launch of the building.
However there are some great buys in buildings where developers are quietly selling condos the first Buyer has defaulted on - the selling price is now much lower than at the launch of the building.
1200 N Sweetzer: 10 Superb, Stylish Condos in West Hollywood
Units at 1200 N Sweetzer Avenue, a cool, styling, very exciting 10-unit building, have just gone on sale at the corner of Norton and Sweetzer Avenues in West Hollywood. Among brokers and bloggers, the building is getting a lot of buzz -- most of it excellent. This is a pedigreed project: the architect, Aleks Istanbullu,also designed the Biscuit Lofts in the Arts District Downtown.
These units range in price from $799,000 for two 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath ground floor units (approx 1,250 sq ft) to $1,449,000 for the 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath penthouse (1,802 sq ft) with a 782 sq ft rooftop deck.
This is excellent, contemporary design. High ceilings. Abundant natural light. Use of eco-friendly materials. Plus some of the greatest roofdecks within blocks.
The location between La Cienega and Crescent Heights, Fountain and Santa Monica Boulevard can’t be beat. O-Bar, Griddle Cafe, Joey’s Café, Barney's Beanery, Hugo’s, Trader Joe’s, Gelsons, Palihouse, Chateau Marmont, Greenblatt’s Deli, Standard Hotel, Sunset Tower Hotel and Equinox Fitness are all steps away.
Bathroom finishes include Kohler fixtures, Caesarstone, and custom wooden cabinetry.
Windows are large, giving excellent views from some units of the Sunset Strip, the Hills, and the Los Angeles basin.
The ceilings are high -- you won't feel cramped around here.
Kitchens feature Jenn-Air or Kitchen Aid refrigerators, Bertazzoni ranges and hoods, and Bosch dishwashers.
Hardwood floors are stained an attractive cherry color. Even the lower floor units are appealing.The only catch may be the price: units range from $629/sq ft (largest ground-floor unit) to $804/sq ft (front penthouse). This is leagues above the $/sq ft of recently sold units (of slightly less stature) in West Hollywood. Now it's time for the buyers to decide what they think about these units. In this writer's opinion, kudos should be extended to the team that brought this excellent project to market.
Sold by Sotheby's International Realty
16 Tips to bring you Massive Success
16 Tips to bring you Massive Success
1. Get and stay out of your comfort zone.
I believe that not much happens of any significance when we're in our comfort zone. When you are out of your comfort zone or uncomfortable, you are growing.
2. Never give up.
Almost nothing works the first time it's attempted. Just because what you're doing does not seem to be working, doesn't mean it won't work. It just means that it might not work the way you're doing it. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it!
3. When you're ready to quit, you're closer than you think.
There's an old Chinese saying that I just love, and I believe it is so true. It goes like this: "The temptation to quit will be greatest just before you are about to succeed." Most people quit when they are 3 feet from GOLD!!
4. With regard to whatever worries you, not only accept the worst thing that could happen, but make it a point to quantify what the worst thing could be.
Very seldom will the worst consequence be anywhere near as bad as a cloud of "undefined consequences." During the toughest times in my business when I felt like nothing was working I would just think to myself “This can’t kill me, one day I’ll look back on this and laugh!” Hahaha…
5. Focus on what you want to have happen.
Remember that old saying, "Whether you think you will or not, you are right." It is always so important to keep a positive mindset. 80% of your success will come from this.
6. Take things a day at a time.
No matter how difficult your situation is, you can get through it if you don't look too far into the future, and focus on the present moment. You can get through anything one day at a time. “This too will pass”
7. Always be moving forward.
Never stop investing. Never stop improving. Never stop doing learning. The moment you stop improving your organization, it starts to die. Make it your goal to be better each and every day, in some small way. Remember the Japanese concept of Kaizen. Small daily improvements eventually result in huge advantages.
8. Measure everything of significance.
I swear this is true. Anything that is measured and watched, improves. Keep track of your numbers. Hold yourself accountable and watch your business grow.
9. Anything that is not managed will deteriorate.
If you want to uncover problems you don't know about, take a few moments and look closely at the areas you haven't examined for a while. I guarantee you problems will be there.
10. Pay attention to your competitors, but pay more attention to what you're doing.
When you look at your competitors, remember that everything looks perfect at a distance.
What is your edge? What make you different? Why should someone work with you over the competition?
11. Never let anybody push you around.
Never let someone tell you “It can’t be done.” Don’t let other people’s opinion determine your success.
12. Never expect life to be fair.
Life isn't fair. You make your own breaks. Don’t let your down falls hold you back. You will fail many times before you succeed. Fail Forward Faster!!
13. Solve your own problems.
You'll find that by coming up with your own solutions, you'll develop a competitive edge. Masura Ibuka, the co-founder of SONY, said it best: "You never succeed in technology, business, or anything by following the others." Be you, and YOU will succeed!
14. Don't take yourself too seriously.
Lighten up. If you are walking around upset and uptight that is what you will get more of. Be happy and positive! None of us are in control as much as we like to think we are.
15. There's always a reason to smile.
Find it. After all, you're really lucky just to be alive. Life is short. Remember: "We're not here for a long time, we're here for a good time!"
16. Money is how business people keep score!
What’s your score?
To your success,
Sam Khorramian
Success Expert
*** Make sure you sign up for our FREE mailing list today! ***
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Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Susan, stimulus and swine flu: the fastest rising searches of 2009 so far
A year ago we were searching for Heath Ledger, Barack Obama and iPhones - but so far this year it’s all about flu and a certain YouTube phenomenon.
The fastest rising searches conducted on google.com.au during 2009 to date are for ‘swine flu’ (1) and ‘susan boyle’ (2), and home-grown TV show ‘masterchef’ made number three, after awakening the foodie within all of us.
Aussies also headed online to understand their eligibility for the Government’s ‘stimulus package’ (4); follow Roger Federer’s effort to match Pete Sampras’s grand slam record at ‘wimbledon’ (5); and better understand technology phenomenon ‘twitter’ (6).
Because people use Google to search for what's new and interesting, trends in search terms are a good reflection of what's been on everybody's minds so far this year.
Search volume trends can also be a glimpse of people’s response to a changing world around them, especially in light of the unprecedented global economic events. (According to research conducted by Monash's Australian Centre for Retail Studies, 50% of people research their purchases and decisions online before purchasing). We've used our Insights for Search tool to reveal some interesting trends in what Aussies are searching for - draw your own conclusions from the graphs below.
Economics
Lifestyle trends
Pop culture
Celebs
Fastest rising searches of 2009:
swine flu
susan boyle
masterchef
stimulus package
wimbledon
twitter
bing
one hd
afl fixture 2009
bruno
Fastest rising ‘people’ searches of 2009:
susan boyle
bruno
jade goody
michael jackson
taylor swift
lily allen
robert pattinson
lady gaga
megan fox
stephenie meyer
Fastest rising TV shows, movies and games of 2009:
masterchef
new moon
watchmen
sims 3
transformers 2
midnight sun
crazy taxi
jizz in my pants
biggest loser
twilight
Fastest rising current events of 2009:
swine flu
susan boyle
stimulus package
wimbledon
jade goody
french open
afl fixture 2009
cfa
australian open
sydney festival
Fastest rising retail searches of 2009:
kmart catalogue
target catalogue
ikea australia
coles online
bunnings
fantastic furniture
sportsgirl
good guys
rebel sports
crazy johns
Fastest rising searches for products/services of 2009:
twitter
bing
one hd
windows 7
facebook
skype download
picnik
avg free download
google chrome
itunes download
Fastest rising website searches of 2009
ato.gov.au
webjet.com.au
jetstar.com.au
centrelink online services
ticketek.com.au
oasis active
rsvp.com.au
realestate.com.au rentals
nrl.com
afl.com.au
The fastest rising searches conducted on google.com.au during 2009 to date are for ‘swine flu’ (1) and ‘susan boyle’ (2), and home-grown TV show ‘masterchef’ made number three, after awakening the foodie within all of us.
Aussies also headed online to understand their eligibility for the Government’s ‘stimulus package’ (4); follow Roger Federer’s effort to match Pete Sampras’s grand slam record at ‘wimbledon’ (5); and better understand technology phenomenon ‘twitter’ (6).
Because people use Google to search for what's new and interesting, trends in search terms are a good reflection of what's been on everybody's minds so far this year.
Search volume trends can also be a glimpse of people’s response to a changing world around them, especially in light of the unprecedented global economic events. (According to research conducted by Monash's Australian Centre for Retail Studies, 50% of people research their purchases and decisions online before purchasing). We've used our Insights for Search tool to reveal some interesting trends in what Aussies are searching for - draw your own conclusions from the graphs below.
Economics
- Solar the preferred alternative source of energy?
- Recession ... we're so over that word.
- Turning to comfort foods in tough times?
- Chicken casserole and chocolate steal the show.
- Personal grooming important despite tighter economic times.
- Some people are still finding the cash for cosmetic surgery?
- Celebrity divorces fascinate us ... but some of us seem to be looking for divorce lawyers of our own. Check out the spike around the financial meltdown of October last year.
- Twilight-mania is calming down … but New Moon is ramping up.
- Recipes are trending up ... perhaps alongside the popularity of Masterchef?
- Miranda Kerr is the queen of our off-shore Aussies.
- Bradley Cooper missed his opportunity to become number one Brad.
swine flu
susan boyle
masterchef
stimulus package
wimbledon
bing
one hd
afl fixture 2009
bruno
Fastest rising ‘people’ searches of 2009:
susan boyle
bruno
jade goody
michael jackson
taylor swift
lily allen
robert pattinson
lady gaga
megan fox
stephenie meyer
Fastest rising TV shows, movies and games of 2009:
masterchef
new moon
watchmen
sims 3
transformers 2
midnight sun
crazy taxi
jizz in my pants
biggest loser
twilight
Fastest rising current events of 2009:
swine flu
susan boyle
stimulus package
wimbledon
jade goody
french open
afl fixture 2009
cfa
australian open
sydney festival
Fastest rising retail searches of 2009:
kmart catalogue
target catalogue
ikea australia
coles online
bunnings
fantastic furniture
sportsgirl
good guys
rebel sports
crazy johns
Fastest rising searches for products/services of 2009:
bing
one hd
windows 7
skype download
picnik
avg free download
google chrome
itunes download
Fastest rising website searches of 2009
ato.gov.au
webjet.com.au
jetstar.com.au
centrelink online services
ticketek.com.au
oasis active
rsvp.com.au
realestate.com.au rentals
nrl.com
afl.com.au
New Listings, New Escrows and Sold Properties for July 25th & 26th, 2009
A very QUIET weekend again in both Central and South Palm Springs with only 2 new listings and 2 properties going into escrow.
CENTRAL PALM SPRINGS
New Listings:
2193 E Amado Rd., Sunrise Park, 3/2, $329,900
1415 N Camino Centro, Old Las Palmas, 3/3, $1,475,000
In Escrow:
750 N Paseo de Anza, Ruth Hardy Park, 2/1.5, $199,000
SOUTH PALM SPRINGS:
In Escrow:
506 S Sunrise Way #34, Sunflower, 2/2, $149,900
CENTRAL PALM SPRINGS
New Listings:
2193 E Amado Rd., Sunrise Park, 3/2, $329,900
1415 N Camino Centro, Old Las Palmas, 3/3, $1,475,000
In Escrow:
750 N Paseo de Anza, Ruth Hardy Park, 2/1.5, $199,000
SOUTH PALM SPRINGS:
In Escrow:
506 S Sunrise Way #34, Sunflower, 2/2, $149,900
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.Thanks for visiting our real estate blog. Contact us when thinking about buying or selling. We're your Neighborhood Real Estate Specialists!Steve Frank RS Associates 760.333-2264 Steve@rsinthedesert.com posted by Steve Frank @ 12:03
Monday, July 27, 2009
Google Student Day
Are you a technology optimist? Have you thought about a career in ICT?
At Google we believe that the wave of information and communications online is changing lives around the world for the better. Students choosing careers today have many exciting options in technology. We're working with the National ICT Careers Week and hope to inspire some of those career choices through Google Student Day. We will bring 40 students and their parents to the Google offices in Sydney for a behind the scenes tour of innovation and geekdom at play.
The Student Day will run on the ACS careers portal and to enter, students under the age of 18 must write in 25 words or less why they think IT is cool.
Entries open today and close Monday 10th August 2009. Winners will be announced Monday 24th August 2009 and the Google Student Day will run on 15 October 2009 from 5.30pm - 7.30pm.
At Google we believe that the wave of information and communications online is changing lives around the world for the better. Students choosing careers today have many exciting options in technology. We're working with the National ICT Careers Week and hope to inspire some of those career choices through Google Student Day. We will bring 40 students and their parents to the Google offices in Sydney for a behind the scenes tour of innovation and geekdom at play.
The Student Day will run on the ACS careers portal and to enter, students under the age of 18 must write in 25 words or less why they think IT is cool.
Entries open today and close Monday 10th August 2009. Winners will be announced Monday 24th August 2009 and the Google Student Day will run on 15 October 2009 from 5.30pm - 7.30pm.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
New Listings, New Escrows and Sold Properties in Palm Springs for Friday, July 24th, 2009
There was a lot of action on Friday -- especially with all the new listings in Central Palm Springs. This was due largely to the "re-opening" of Escena which represents 5 of the new listings. It will be interesting to watch how this project moves along. The Lennar homes are beautiful and it will be a beautiful addition to Palm Springs when it is completed and fully occupied.
CENTRAL PALM SPRINGS
New Listings:
2011 E Tachevah Dr, Desert Lanai, 2/2, $185.00
653 E Alejo Rd. St. Tropez Villas, 3/3, $229,995
1152 N May Dr., Ruth Hardy Park, 3/2, $399,500
1080 E Paseo El Mirador, Ruth Hardy Park, 3/3, $419,000
4974 Davidson Way, Central PS, 3/3.5, $372,000
601 Skylar Ln, Central PS, 2/2.6, $420,000
582 Skylar Ln , Central PS, 2/2.5, $422,000
562 Skylar Ln, Central PS, 3/2.5, $425,000
4316 Vivant Way, Central PS, 4/3.5, $499,000
Sold Properties:
255 S Avenida Caballeros #120, Villa Caballeros, 2/2, $160,000
1150 E Paseo El Mirador, Ruth Hardy Park, 3/3.5, $1,000,000
SOUTH PALM SPRINGS
New Listings:
1111 E Ramon Rd #65, Ramona Villas, 2/1.75, $210,000
2750 Golondrina Way, Los Compadres, 3/2, $335,000
1930 S Cadiz Cir, South Palm Springs, 4/3, $995,000
In Escrow:
2600 S Palm Canyon Dr #3, Canyon Villas 3, 3/3, $148,900
1985 Marguerite St. South Palm Springs, 3/2, $249,900
820 E Palm Canyon Dr #207, Biltmore Colony, 2/2, $263,340
Sold Properties:
640 S Warm Sands Dr., Warm Sands, 2/1.75, $370,000
888 N Riverside Dr., Tahquitz River Estates, 3/2.5, $389,000
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.Thanks for visiting our real estate blog. Contact us when thinking about buying or selling. We're your Neighborhood Real Estate Specialists!Steve Frank RS Associates 760.333-2264 Steve@rsinthedesert.com posted by Steve Frank @ 5:45PM
Saturday, July 25, 2009
West Hollywood New Construction Sells for $440 - $540/sq ft
During the past two months, mid- to high-end new condos are selling between approx. $440 – 540/sq ft, depending on the building, floor and neighborhood. Updated 9/26/09: For the last two months, new construction has been selling for $380 - 530/sq ft and many condos are going into contract.
The units sold range from 1,450 sq ft – 1,720 sq ft and had sales prices ranging from $645,000 - $939,000. Sale prices on new construction seem to cap around $950,000.
Properties that need to be financed by a jumbo loan (over $729,950 in Los Angeles County) are out of reach of most buyers because of the high interest rates and the difficult underwriting requirements of these loans.
The product may be excellent – but the qualified buyers are few – which means that only price reductions (or a return to the go-go days of financing) will salvage this $950,000+ market.
West Hollywood is priced at a premium to Downtown Los Angeles where lower floor units in buildings such as EVO South or Concerto are selling in the $380 – 420/sq ft range.
Here are some sales of new construction in West Hollywood during the past two months:
718 N Croft Avenue, Unit #201 with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,718 sq ft of living area, sold for $850,000 ($495/sq ft).
718 N Croft Avenue, Unit #301, with the same layout as Unit #201 -- 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,718 sq ft of living area -- sold for $890,000. In this building, being one floor higher is worth $40,000 ($518/sq ft).
7917 Willoughby Avenue, Unit #3 with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,577 sq ft of living area, sold for $755,000 ($478/sq ft). This building is located at the corner of Fairfax Avenue.
7917 Willoughby Avenue, Unit #6 with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,577 sq ft of living area, sold for $755,000 ($443/sq ft). This unit has a less desirable view -- but the unit is nevertheless excellent for this price.
1351 Havenhurst Drive, PH#2 with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,476 sq ft of living area, sold for $799,000 ($541/sq ft). It’s no surprise this unit commanded the highest $/sq ft price – it’s a penthouse unit.
1430 N Vista Street #1 with 2 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 1,800 sq ft of living area, sold for $939,000 ($521/sq ft). This unit is top-notch, and commanded an impressive price for this east part of West Hollywood.
The units sold range from 1,450 sq ft – 1,720 sq ft and had sales prices ranging from $645,000 - $939,000. Sale prices on new construction seem to cap around $950,000.
Properties that need to be financed by a jumbo loan (over $729,950 in Los Angeles County) are out of reach of most buyers because of the high interest rates and the difficult underwriting requirements of these loans.
The product may be excellent – but the qualified buyers are few – which means that only price reductions (or a return to the go-go days of financing) will salvage this $950,000+ market.
West Hollywood is priced at a premium to Downtown Los Angeles where lower floor units in buildings such as EVO South or Concerto are selling in the $380 – 420/sq ft range.
Here are some sales of new construction in West Hollywood during the past two months:
718 N Croft Avenue, Unit #201 with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,718 sq ft of living area, sold for $850,000 ($495/sq ft).
718 N Croft Avenue, Unit #301, with the same layout as Unit #201 -- 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,718 sq ft of living area -- sold for $890,000. In this building, being one floor higher is worth $40,000 ($518/sq ft).
7917 Willoughby Avenue, Unit #3 with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,577 sq ft of living area, sold for $755,000 ($478/sq ft). This building is located at the corner of Fairfax Avenue.
7917 Willoughby Avenue, Unit #6 with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,577 sq ft of living area, sold for $755,000 ($443/sq ft). This unit has a less desirable view -- but the unit is nevertheless excellent for this price.
1351 Havenhurst Drive, PH#2 with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,476 sq ft of living area, sold for $799,000 ($541/sq ft). It’s no surprise this unit commanded the highest $/sq ft price – it’s a penthouse unit.
1430 N Vista Street #1 with 2 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 1,800 sq ft of living area, sold for $939,000 ($521/sq ft). This unit is top-notch, and commanded an impressive price for this east part of West Hollywood.
Palm Springs homes for sale, sold and in escrow. Palm Springs Real Estate Activity for 07/23/09
Palm Springs real estate. Palm Springs homes for sale in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Find great values, including foreclosures and shortsales, in your favorite Palm Springs neighborhoods. Find it all on our Palm Springs real estate blog!
Below is the activity for Thursday 23 July!
Central Palm Springs:
New Listings:
458 Bradshaw Ln., #17, Peublo Sands, 2/2, $127,900.
851 N Calle De Pinos, Sunrise Oasis, 2/2, $189,000.
411 N Calle Rolph, Greenhouse East, 2/2, $380,000.
535 N Burton Way, Sun Villas, 3/2, $425,000.
In Escrow:
None
Sold:
1360 E Andreas Rd., Palm Regency, 2/2.5, $199,000. (foreclosure)
392 Ameno Dr., E., Tierra Hermosa, 3/3, $355,000.
3522 E Paseo Barbara, El Rancho Vista Estates, 3/2, $215,000.
219 N Morsun Cir., Sunrise Park, 3/2, $389,700.
220 N Morsun Cir., Sunrise Park, 3/2, $565,000.
1077 N Rose Ave., Vista Las Palmas, 5/3.5, $1,045,000.
South Palm Springs:
New Listings:
None
In Escrow:
5725 Los Coyotes Dr., Villas De Las Flores, 2/2, $175,000.
7532 Regency Dr., Cathedral Cyn CC, 3/2, $222,700. (foreclosure)
569 S Vista Oro, Warm Sands, 3/2, $199,000.
1311 Fuego Cir., Canyon North, 3/3.5, $499,000. (short sale)
Sold:
1950 S Palm Canyon Dr., #101, Sandstone Villas, 2/2, $105,000. (short sale)
253 E Twin Palms Dr., Royal Hawaiian, 2/2, $194,000.
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.
Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 RussellHill@dc.rr.com
Friday, July 24, 2009
Palm Springs homes for sale, sold and in escrow. Palm Springs Real Estate Activity for 07/22/09
Palm Springs real estate. Palm Springs homes for sale in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Find good values, including foreclosures and shortsales, in your favorite Palm Springs neighborhoods. Find your good buy on our Palm Springs real estate blog.
Thanks for visiting. Contact us if you want knowledgeable and professional representation when you buy or sell!
Here's what happened on the real estate front on Wednesday, 22 July, 2009. A slow day.....except for closed escrows in the south end!
Central Palm Springs:
New Listings:
372 W Santa Elena Rd., Casa De Oro, 2/1.5, $99,900.
In Escrow:
None
Sold:
None
South Palm Springs:
New Listings:
2014 Southridge Dr., RimCrest, 2/2, $165,000.
In Escrow:
307 Neutra St., Alta, 3/3.5, $1,195,000.
Sold:
2345 S Cherokee Way, #158, Oasis Resort Condos, 2/2.5, $110,000. (foreclosure)
2027 E Columbard Dr., Versailles, 2/2, $165,000.
2580 S Sierra Madre, Villa Roma, 2/2, $167,147. (short sale) - over asking
3712 E Camino Simeon, Demuth Park, 3/3, $252,000. (foreclosure)
975 E Sunny Dunes Rd., Warm Sands, 3/3, $300,000.
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.
Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 RussellHill@dc.rr.com
Aussie Marketing Challenge Victory
(Editor's note: This is partial cross post from the Official Google blog).
Congrats to Deakin University, global winners of the Google Online Marketing Challenge. The Challenge is in its second year running and is one of the world's largest university competitions with 2,187 teams participating across 57 countries. An Australian team has won both years.
The Challenge is a hands-on exercise which gives under- and post-grad students direct experience with online advertising as part of their course work. Student teams receive the equivalent of US$200 to spend on Google AdWords advertising, to work with a local business to devise an online marketing campaign, drive results and provide recommendations to further improve its online marketing effectiveness.
The winning team, geographically dispersed across Australia - Andrew Kidd (Tasmania), Clinton Hinze (Queensland), Howard Lien (New South Wales), and Katalin Kish, Kevin Fung, Jason Blakely (all from Victoria), created an eBusiness campaign for Brisbane-based Indoor Play Centre and Cafe, LittleTiGrrs.
LuckyTigrrs more like..
"The overall campaign generated $2,355 AUD in revenue for LittleTiGrrs - a solid return on investment of 12.1 to 1, while visitors to their website more than doubled compared with the same period last year," said Andrew Kidd, leader of the winning team. "We really enjoyed taking a traditional business strategy and bricks and mortar business and putting that online."
We developed the Challenge to benefit everyone involved. We're delighted that thousands of small businesses around the world have seen their online presence improved in just three weeks. Professors tell us that the Challenge has allowed them to deliver a unique, practical teaching and learning exercise. For those students that took part, we hope they have developed some useful online marketing skills which they can use when they graduate and enter the workforce.
For anyone interested in competing in the 2010 Challenge, formal registrations will open later this year, but in the meantime you can register your interest.
Congrats to Deakin University, global winners of the Google Online Marketing Challenge. The Challenge is in its second year running and is one of the world's largest university competitions with 2,187 teams participating across 57 countries. An Australian team has won both years.
The Challenge is a hands-on exercise which gives under- and post-grad students direct experience with online advertising as part of their course work. Student teams receive the equivalent of US$200 to spend on Google AdWords advertising, to work with a local business to devise an online marketing campaign, drive results and provide recommendations to further improve its online marketing effectiveness.
The winning team, geographically dispersed across Australia - Andrew Kidd (Tasmania), Clinton Hinze (Queensland), Howard Lien (New South Wales), and Katalin Kish, Kevin Fung, Jason Blakely (all from Victoria), created an eBusiness campaign for Brisbane-based Indoor Play Centre and Cafe, LittleTiGrrs.
LuckyTigrrs more like..
"The overall campaign generated $2,355 AUD in revenue for LittleTiGrrs - a solid return on investment of 12.1 to 1, while visitors to their website more than doubled compared with the same period last year," said Andrew Kidd, leader of the winning team. "We really enjoyed taking a traditional business strategy and bricks and mortar business and putting that online."
We developed the Challenge to benefit everyone involved. We're delighted that thousands of small businesses around the world have seen their online presence improved in just three weeks. Professors tell us that the Challenge has allowed them to deliver a unique, practical teaching and learning exercise. For those students that took part, we hope they have developed some useful online marketing skills which they can use when they graduate and enter the workforce.
For anyone interested in competing in the 2010 Challenge, formal registrations will open later this year, but in the meantime you can register your interest.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Sun Center - Palm Springs
Here are some photos of the renovations in progress at the Sun Center on Palm Canyon Dr.
The addition is coming along.....what do think about it? Anyone know if anything is slated to fill the space?
I'm glad to see the improvements to the parking lot. I must say, however, that I wish there was a little more "green" space for plantings. On the plus side, I'm delighted to see the pavers and concrete vs. blacktop.
I do think the center will look great once the reno is done!
Here are a few of the local merchants in the shopping center, with links to their sites.
plus many others.....
Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 RussellHill@dc.rr.com
5 Reasons We Love Concerto in Downtown Los Angeles
Concerto is like a great masterpiece going through its final edit. We see its genius – a grand architectural design that includes three residential buildings, retail and a one-acre pool-park-common area – and its flaws – mostly that construction is not yet completed.Updated 8/8/09 -- Concerto has announced a one-day sales event on August 29 for the 77-unit Loft building. All units will be sold that day. Studios start at $219,000 (738 - 782 sq ft). One bedrooms start at $279,000 (959 - 973 sq ft). Two bedrooms start at $449,000 (1,325 - 1,689 sq ft).
Updated 9/25/09 -- The Loft one-day sale event was a great success. All the units sold and there were hundreds of buyers disappointed that they couldn't take advantage of the advertised, low prices. (Turns out the prices were tweaked during the event and discounts were not all that deep.) A couple of new wrinkles in the picture: Concerto's funder Corus Bank was taken over by the FDIC and Sonny Astani declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy leaving the fate of the entire project uncertain. Next step will be a bankruptcy judge's ruling on how the loans, contracts and assets will be settled.
Meanwhile, construction will progress at the 271-unit Tower building.
We’ve previously toured Concerto, but we’re glad we came back to see the newly staged Lofts model unit (#406), which looks fab. It has one bedroom, one bath, 991 sq ft of living area and is priced at $411,000. The Lofts’ lobby has taken form and the elevator is operating, giving a more complete idea of this intimate residence nicely situated between Flower Street and the complex’s pool-courtyard area.Concerto is not done, but we like what we see. Here are five reasons we love Concerto.
1. Architecture and Site Design. Sonny Astani and his design team are a formidable creative force. The buildings and the renderings of the completed project are ambitious and could make for one of the best urban projects in any city.
2. Lofts and Tower. Buyers can choose to live in the 7-floor 77-unit Lofts (currently being sold) or the 30 story, 271 unit towers (sales to continue in August). The Lofts are open plan and stylish and have minimum 9’ ceilings. The Towers are angular and modern, and have minimum 10’4” ceilings.
3. One acre urban park. The common area between the buildings includes a pool, walkways, trees and a Tai Chi park. Does it get any better than this urban oasis at 9th and Figueroa?
4. 9th and Figueroa. This is like the new Hollywood and Vine (although Hollywood + Vine is also the new Hollywood and Vine). Like EVO South, this South Park location is close to Staples Center, LA Live, Ralphs Fresh Fare Supermarket and more.
5. Manhattan in Los Angeles. Squint out the window of a corner unit of the Tower at Concerto in Downtown Los Angeles and you might think you’re in Midtown Manhattan. Los Angeles has come of age. This is urban chic.
Sold by Keller Williams Realty Los Feliz
Palm Springs homes for sale, sold and in escrow. Palm Springs Real Estate Activity for 07/21/09
Palm Springs real estate. Palm Springs homes for sale in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Find your dream home on this Palm Springs real estate blog.
If you're new to this blog, welcome. Hit on the link at the property address to see property details and pictures. Link expires after 30 days from post date.
Here's the activity for Tuesday, 21 July, 2009.
Central Palm Springs:
New Listings:
277 E Alejo Rd., #126, Villa Alejo, 2/2, $159,900.
1428 N Rodeo Rd., Ruth Hardy Park, 4/2, $549,900.
986 N Coronet Cir., Vista Las Palmas, 4/3, $1,195,800.
In Escrow:
875 N Calle De Mimosas, Sunrise Oasis, 2/2, $249,000.
1135 N Sunrise Way, Ruth Hardy Park, 3/2, $279,000.
598 N Saturmino Dr., Sun Villas, 3/2, $395,000.
Sold:
1281 E Amado Rd., Palm Regency, 2/2.5, $237,500.
South Palm Springs:
New Listings:
2500 W La Condesa Dr., Vista Canyon, 4/4, $450,000.
1176 E San Lorenzo Rd., Tahquitz River Estates, 3/2, $337,500. (foreclosure)
207 E Palo Verde Ave., Tahquitz River Estates, 3/3, $499,000.
In Escrow:
2466 S Linden Way, #D, Canyon Sands, 2/2, $225,000.
708 California Ave., Demuth Park, 3/2, $108,900. (foreclosure)
1177 S Calle De Maria, Deepwell, 3/3, $425,000. (short sale)
Sold:
1554 S Calle Marcus, Deepwell, 3/2, $200,000.
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.
Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 RussellHill@dc.rr.com
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Palm Springs homes for sale, sold and in escrow. Palm Springs Real Estate Activity for 07/20/09
Palm Springs real estate. Palm Springs homes for sale in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Palm Springs real estate opportunities include foreclosures and short sales. Follow our Palm Springs real estate blog to find your perfect home and neighborhoods!
Here's the activity for Monday, 7/20/09. We appreciate your readership and comments! If you find this blog useful, please share it with your friends and neighbors!
Central Palm Springs:
New Listings:
1850 Paseo Pelota, Sunrise Racquet Club, 2/2, $221,000.
841 N Rose Ave., Vista Las Palmas, 3/2, $749,000. (short sale)
1700 N Tuscan Rd., Little Tuscany, 3/3.5, $1,795,000.
In Escrow:
483 E Calle Begonia, Sundial Condos, 2/2, $179,000.
758 N Prescott Dr., Las Palmas, 2/2.75, $699,000. (foreclosure)
Sold:
3623 E Avenida Fey Norte, El Rancho Vista Estates, 3/2, $425,000.
South Palm Springs:
New Listings:
2180 S Palm Canyon Dr., #38, Canyon CC Estados, 2/2, $125,900.
2890 Medina Ct., Canyon Heights, 2/2, $499,900.
1324 E San Lucas Rd., Tahquitz River Estates, 3/3, $499,000.
215 W Camino Alturas, The Mesa, 3/3, $625,000.
In Escrow:
2601 S Broadmoor Dr., #33, Summerset Springs, 2/2, $164,900.
2985 E Avery Dr., #A, The Pointe, 2/2, $229,000. (foreclosure)
Sold:
2327 Casitas Way, Mesquite Canyon Estates, 2/2, $325,000.
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.
Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 RussellHill@dc.rr.com
Tahquitz River Estates - What we've sold in the neighborhood
Palm Springs real estate. Palm Springs homes for sale. Tahquitz River Estates neighborhood in South Palm Springs.
Steve and I have sold seven homes in the Tahquitz River Estates neighborhood. Five of the seven were listings of ours.
We know the neighborhood! Whether selling or buying, call us to receive knowledgeable and professional representation!
1672 N Riverside Dr., 2/1, $409K
1657 S Riverside Dr., 3/2, $430K
1257 S Riverside Dr., 3/2, $499K
1180 E Mesquite Ave., 4/3, $535K
1571 E San Lucas Rd., 4/2, $572K
1345 S Camino Real, 3/3, $660K
752 S Palo Verde Ave., 4/3, $730K
Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 RussellHill@dc.rr.com
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
New Listings in South Palm Springs for Sunday, July 19th, 2009
No activity in Central Palm Springs this past weekend. There were two new listings in
SOUTH PALM SPRINGS:
215 Desert Lakes Dr., Seven Lakes C.C., 2/2, $229,000
71 Portola Dr., Los Pueblos, 2/1.5, $239,000
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.Thanks for visiting our real estate blog. Contact us when thinking about buying or selling. We're your Neighborhood Real Estate Specialists!Steve Frank RS Associates 760.333-2264 Steve@rsinthedesert.com posted by Steve Frank @ 9:40PM
SOUTH PALM SPRINGS:
215 Desert Lakes Dr., Seven Lakes C.C., 2/2, $229,000
71 Portola Dr., Los Pueblos, 2/1.5, $239,000
Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.Thanks for visiting our real estate blog. Contact us when thinking about buying or selling. We're your Neighborhood Real Estate Specialists!Steve Frank RS Associates 760.333-2264 Steve@rsinthedesert.com posted by Steve Frank @ 9:40PM
Postal Services Group of New Zealand Post goes Google
In the last 12 months we've seen enormous interest from organisations large and small, across Australia and New Zealand, in learning more about the benefits of cloud computing and Google Apps. Some inquiries are from SMEs looking for low-cost and flexible ways to scale their business infrastructure; some are from CIOs of major organisations keen to harness the power of the cloud's in-built collaboration characteristics to transform the way their companies operate. But they share a common belief that a cloud revolution is taking place, and they want to be at the leading edge of it.
A number of Australian and New Zealand universities have proved that the cloud model is highly effective in large organisations - collectively, around 1.7 million students across the two countries are connecting with fellow students and teachers via Gmail, and enjoying the work anywhere, any time benefits.
That's why we're so happy today to announce that the Postal Services Group of New Zealand Post is rolling out Google Apps to just over 2,000 employees before the end of the year, making it the largest non-education deployment in Australia/New Zealand to date.
While it's true that moving to a cloud computing model represents significant cost-savings to the Postal Services Group, it's most exciting to hear about the transformative power they believe Google Apps will have on their organisation. CEO Peter Fenton says the shift will allow people to work together more creatively, collaboratively and flexibly - empowering staff by moving to an any time, anywhere model. He also says that bringing cutting edge technology into the organisation is going to help them retain employees and attract talented graduates, who expect the same powerful web-based solutions in their work life as they have in their personal life.
As a division of one of New Zealand's most iconic and important organisations, it's inspiring to see NZ Post's Postal Services Group blazing a trail for cloud computing adoption by large enterprises in the Asia Pacific region.
A number of Australian and New Zealand universities have proved that the cloud model is highly effective in large organisations - collectively, around 1.7 million students across the two countries are connecting with fellow students and teachers via Gmail, and enjoying the work anywhere, any time benefits.
That's why we're so happy today to announce that the Postal Services Group of New Zealand Post is rolling out Google Apps to just over 2,000 employees before the end of the year, making it the largest non-education deployment in Australia/New Zealand to date.
While it's true that moving to a cloud computing model represents significant cost-savings to the Postal Services Group, it's most exciting to hear about the transformative power they believe Google Apps will have on their organisation. CEO Peter Fenton says the shift will allow people to work together more creatively, collaboratively and flexibly - empowering staff by moving to an any time, anywhere model. He also says that bringing cutting edge technology into the organisation is going to help them retain employees and attract talented graduates, who expect the same powerful web-based solutions in their work life as they have in their personal life.
As a division of one of New Zealand's most iconic and important organisations, it's inspiring to see NZ Post's Postal Services Group blazing a trail for cloud computing adoption by large enterprises in the Asia Pacific region.
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