Spacious Art Lofts @ 1220 Orange Grove Avenue - West Hollywood

Updated 4/19/10: Prices have been lowered to $679,000 - $749,000 for these twelve, new townhouse-style loft units at 1220 N Orange Grove Avenue in West Hollywood, one block east of Fairfax, between Santa Monica Boulevard and Fountain Avenue. Fans of big units, industrial design, and Whole Foods (just around the corner), should consider the Art Lofts complex.

Updated 6/1/10: 6 units are in contract. 6 units are still available priced: $679K, $699K, $699K, $719K, $739K, $749K. At $363/sq ft - $378/sq ft list price, these are the best priced units in the area.

If you would like more information about these condos (or others in the area) please contact us by clicking on this link to send us an email or by calling us at (310) 845-6810.

The twelve townhouses are accessed off a central courtyard area. The 4-story mega-residences, with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a mezzanine "loft" floor, range in size from 1,872 - 2,191 sq ft.

Enter on the ground floor to the open kitchen-living area, with double-height ceilings above the living area. Over-sized glass sliders lead to a small balcony. Kitchen appliances are stainless steel, including a very high-tech Bertazzoni range. By the front entrance is a half-bath. Floors are concrete.

Up a flight of stairs is the mezzanine "loft" level with plenty of room for lounging, watching TV, or running a home-office. Flooring on stairs and on upper levels is bamboo.

Up another flight is one bedroom and a full bath, separated by a jumbo-sized closet.

Bathroom counter tops are marble. Cabinetry is sleek wood laminate with metal handles.

The unit gets plenty of light, including from a large window above the stairway on the top floor.

The master bedroom also has a bathroom en suite.

A balcony off the master bedroom provides additional living space and some nice views of the surrounding hills.

The neighborhood includes a mix of small- to medium-sized apartment buildings. The location is midway between the west side and east side of West Hollywood. The North building has seven units and balconies face north. The South building has five units and the balconies face south. Check out these well-priced units before they're sold out.

1220 Art Lofts
1220 N Orange Grove Avenue
West Hollywood, California 90046

Sold by Keller Williams - Westside

Palm Springs Homes for Sale

Palm Springs homes for sale. Palm Springs real estate opportunities in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Are you looking for mid century modern or Spanish Ranch or Colonial? Find them here on our real estate blog. Find your Palm Springs vacation home, full-time residence or investment property here!

Here's the activity for 9/24-9/25, 2009

Central Palm Springs:

New Listings:

899 Village S., Village Racquet Club, 2/2, $199,900.

1320 Tiffany Cir., N., Rose Garden, 3/2, $279,500.

302 Villagio E., The Villas in Old PS, 3/3.5, $750,000.

In Escrow:

1502 N Via Miraleste, 3/3, $219,900. (foreclosure)

2087 Paseo Roseta, Sunrise Park, 4/2, $379,800. (foreclosure)

Sold:

2411 E Camino Pelicano, Sun Villas, 3/2, $335,000. (foreclosure - over asking)

733 N Phillips Rd., Movie Colony, 2/2.5, $479,000.

South Palm Springs:

New Listings:

1900 S Palm Canyon Dr., #11, Sandstone Villas, 1/1, $109,900. (foreclosure)

6090 Driver Rd., Sandcastles, 2/2, $227,500.

3967 E Sunny Dunes Rd., Demuth Park, 3/1, $119,900. (foreclosure)

1552 S Compadre Rd., Los Compadres, 3/0, $319,900. (foreclosure)

1385 Emerald Ct., Jasmine Homes, 3/3, $625,000.

In Escrow:

1655 E Palm Canyon Dr., #502, Smoketree Racquet Club, 1/1, $69,000.

5300 E Waverly Dr., #C1, Palm Springs Golf/Tennis, 1/1.5, $91,100. (foreclosure)

1124 S Sagebrush Rd., Deepwell, 3/3, $440,000.

1600 E Maricopa Dr., Canyon North, 3/2.5, $469,000.

1969 S Joshua Tree Pl., Twin Palms, 4/3.5, $499,000.

2204 S Caliente Dr., Canyon North, 3/3, $624,900.

Sold:

1150 E Palm Canyon Dr., #41, Rancho La Paz, 1/1, $127,000.

2601 S Broadmoor Dr., #88, Summerset Springs, 2/2, $142,000.

373 Desert Lakes Dr., Seven Lakes Country Club, 2/2, $275,000.

708 California Ave., 3/2, $108,900. (Foreclosure)

1588 Boloro Cir., Canyon Estates, 3/2.5, $456,000.

1088 Manzanita Ave., Deepwell, 4/3, $505,000. (over asking)

1550 Palm Colony, Biltmore Colony, 4/3.5, $685,000.

Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

New Construction in West Hollywood Selling at $380 - 530/sq ft

New WeHo Condo Sales in the Past Two Months

What is selling in the West Hollywood new construction market?

A calvacade of truly excellent modern, well-designed condo projects has come to market, but it seems the same units are for sale week after week. What has actually gone into escrow?

The units that offer value. Developers who adjust their prices and signal to buyers they're getting a "deal" sell units. Some developers have slashed prices and offered units at deeply discounted levels.

8703 West Knoll Drive presented an excellent value to buyers. Unit #201, with 1 br, 1.5 bath and 1,757 sq ft of living area, sold for $740,000 ($421/sq ft). Unit #103, with 2 br, 2.5 ba and 1,636 sq ft of living area, sold for its $699,000 asking price ($427/sq ft).

Three units sold at 841 Westmount Drive, a sixteen-unit project on sale for more than a year. The townhome style units have 2 br, 2.5 ba and 1,504 sq ft of living area. Two sold for $800,000 ($532/sq ft) and one sold for $775,000 ($515/sq ft). 841 Westmount and the Hancock Lofts are the only new construction projects with a pool.
Three units sold at 1248 Laurel Avenue, The Milano. Penthouse #1 sold for $875,000 (1,740 sq ft, $503/sq ft), #102 sold for $669,000 (1,620 sq ft, $413/sq ft) and #204 sold for $640,000 (1,700 sq ft, $376/sq ft). These units have been marketed since mid-2007 and after many price cuts are now closing at deeply reduced levels from the original pricing.
Two units sold at 1351 Havenhurst Drive ("Habitat in the Park.") Unit #103, with 1 br, 1.5 ba, and 1,254 sq ft of living area, sold for $565,000 ($451/sq ft). Unit #102, with 3 br, 2 ba and 1,968 sq ft of living area, sold for $765,000. ($389/sq ft).

One unit sold at Lorcan O'herlihy's 7917 Willoughby Avenue. Unit #2, with 2 br, 2.5 ba and 1,655 sq ft of living area sold for $790,000 ($477/sq ft.)

In the past two months, the highest $/sq ft for new construction is a resale unit at 825 Kings Road. #11, with 2 br, 2 ba, 1,357 sq ft of living area sold for $880,000 ($648/sq ft). The resale of the unit in this trophy building (designed by Lorcan O'herlihy) adjacent to the Schindler House shows there's still strong demand in a top building.
In the realm of resales, we also see that in spite of the challenging real estate market, condos in West Hollywood are not being given away. Four units units sold at 1131 Alta Loma Road, the Park Wellington. Ranging in size from 740 - 1,171 sq ft, the units sold on average for $510/sq ft.

Palm Springs Homes for Sale

Palm Springs Homes for Sale. Palm Springs real estate opportunities in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Are you looking for a Palm Springs vacation home, full-time residence or investment property? Find it on our real estate blog, including foreclosures and short sales. Find your Palm Springs home here, from mid century modern to Spanish Ranch or colonial!

Here's the activity for 9/22/09 and 9/23/09.

Central Palm Springs:

New Listings:

None

In Escrow:

2821 E Livmore Ave., Sunrise Park, 3/2, $375,000.

1152 N May Dr., Ruth Hardy Park, 3/2, $399,500.

790 W Via Vadera, Vista Las Palmas, 4/3, $709,900.

350 Villagio E., The Villas in Old PS, 3/3.5, $745,000.

Sold:

351 N Hermosa Dr., #2C1, Casa Verde, 2/2, $155,000.

2132 E Terry Ln., Sunrise Park, 3/3.5, $645,000.

South Palm Springs:

New Listings:

1675 Wack Wack, Fairways, 3/3, $199,000.

500 S Farrell Dr., #F40, Mesquite Country Club, 2/2, $278,250.

2376 Oakcrest Dr., Sunrise East, 2/2, $300,000.

1987 S Divot Ln., Tahquitz Creek Golf, 4/2.5, $398,950.

2310 S Via Lazo, Canyon North, 4/3.5, $859,000.

In Escrow:

1900 S Palm Canyon Dr., #45, Sandstone Villas, 2/2, $109,900. (foreclosure)

824 S Nueva Vista Dr., Demuth Park, 3/2, $175,000. (foreclosure)

297 Ridge Rd., The Mesa, 3/3, $599,000.

Sold:

2370 S Via Lazo, Canyon North, 4/4, $805,000.

1048 Monte Verde, Monte Sereno, 4/4.5, $1,015,000. (over asking)

Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

Mortgage Rates Slip Below 5% for 30-Year Fixed Loans

What makes a "perfect storm" for first-time buyers seeking to enter the still-difficult-to-penetrate Los Angeles home market?

Deeply discounted home prices. Check.

Government support. Check (although the $8,000 first-time buyer credit is set to expire November 30.)

And, finally, low mortgage interest rates. Check.

Buyers, prick up your ears. Interest rates for 30-year fixed mortgages have crept below 5% and are again are at generational lows.

The home mortgage market, propped up by more than $1 trillion in government money, is flashing a strong "buy" sign to house hunters.

Extending a summer-long slide, the average interest rate on new 30-year fixed-rate loans nationwide has broken through the 5% barrier to 4.97%, nearing the lowest level in decades, the Mortgage Bankers Assn. reported this week...

Several factors are fueling the trend, including growing confidence that the economy is recovering, an emerging consensus that housing prices are at or near a bottom, and the federal government's push to keep mortgage rates low. [Los Angeles Times]

Mortgage rates fluctuate -- as does the government's commitment to cram down interest rates to promote home-buying. Benefit from these ultra-low interest rates while they are in effect.

In Downtown Los Angeles, Concerto's Future Hangs in the Balance

Concerto Hits Headwinds

Another tsunami of financial malaise welled through Downtown Los Angeles with the news that Sonny Astani has filed Chapter 11 and everything having to do with his mega-project Concerto is up in the air. (Read excellent coverage in Curbed LA.)

For a high-rise of this stature, the project is seriously underwater. This bold, three-tower complex was conceived at the top of the market and was delivered this spring in the worst real estate climate in decades.

Corus Bank, the lender for the Concerto project, was heavily exposed to condominium developments in some of the country’s worst-hit housing markets and was shut down by federal regulators two weeks ago. Not a single unit at Concerto has sold.

That Downtown LA’s marquee, residential development is in disarray is important because of the project’s size -- 77 loft units (sold at auction August 29), a semi-completed 271-unit glass Tower, and an as-yet-unbuilt third tower (currently a deep hole on the site).

Many questions remain unanswered, including the fate of the 77 Concerto Loft units, which, after a month-long marketing blitz, were “sold” to buyers at low prices at the August 29 sale event.

More Housing Units Come to Market

And the projects keep coming online. Here are more than 200 new units that will hit the Downtown market in the next six months:

• 655 Hope – To open mid-October. 80 units, from 600 – 1,268 sq ft, priced $349,000 - $920,000. 17 story adaptive reuse project.
• Barn Lofts – this adaptive-reuse project in the Arts District will be finished by the end of the year with 38 two-bedroom, two-bath townhouses.
• El Dorado – a 12-story building at 416 S Spring Street will open in the first quarter of 2010 with 65 units starting in the low $400,000s.
• Hewitt First – Final construction details are being completed on the 33 units at 130 Hewitt Street in the Arts District.

(Thanks to Los Angeles Downtown News for their oustanding reporting on this beat).

With Concerto’s 348 units, more than two hundred new units, and existing inventory at EVO South, Rowan Lofts, Barker Block and a handful of other projects, there are 800 - 1,000 units that need to be absorbed just to keep pace with current development.

And there is plenty of housing competition from the superabundance of rental buildings on the market.

Prospects for the Downtown Market

How will the current scenario impact the Downtown residential housing market? The failure of a project of Concerto’s size is stunning and bewildering. Like AIG, we thought Concerto was too big to face such an uncertain future.

Sale of Downtown units depends on pricing. The developers who acknowledge the current sorry state of affairs and price their units well will quickly shed inventory and at least cut their losses and move onto other projects.

Buyers are looking for value and quality – and the projects that offer the best combination of these two will be the winner in sales (EVO South succeeds in this area.)

Price point is also critical. Units that need to be financed with jumbo loans (over $729,500 in Los Angeles) face major hurdles. Units that can be financed with conforming loans ($417,000 or less) face the best prospects.

Pent-up buyer demand should keep the Downtown Los Angeles market slogging along with stable, low prices that were unthinkable just a few years ago.

First-time buyers are out in force, as evidenced by number of buyers who lined up for their shot at a discounted Concerto unit. This perennial wave of buyers seeking to put their rent days behind will provide the steam to keep Downtown Los Angeles afloat through these turbulent tides.

Palm Springs Homes for Sale

Palm Springs Homes for Sale. Palm Springs Real Estate opportunities in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Are you looking for a Palm Springs vacation home, full-time residence, or investment property? Find them here, including mid century modern or Spanish ranch or colonial. Andreas Hills, Vista Las Palmas, Sunrise Park, The Mesa.

Here's the activity for Monday, September 21, 2009.

Central Palm Springs:

New Listings:

1102 Casa Verde Way, Greenhouse, 2/2, $319,000.

In Escrow:

291 E Mel Ave., #223, Rancho El Mirador, 2/2, $119,990

495 N Burton Way, Sunrise Park, 5/3, $499,000.

Sold:

1197 N Via Monte, Vista Las Palmas, 4/4, $636,000. (foreclosure)

South Palm Springs:

New Listings:

333 W Crestview Dr., The Mesa, 3/3, $819,000.

In Escrow:

1625 Paseo De La Palma, Tahquitz Canyon, 1/1.5, $104,900. (foreclosure)

2180 S Palm Canyon Dr., #38, Canyon CC Estados, 2/2, $119,900. (foreclosure)

3752 E Bogert Trl., Andreas Hills, 3/3, $490,000.

2400 S Caliente Dr., Canyon North, 3/3, $599,000.

Sold:

None

Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

Google climate change tools for COP15

(Editor's note: this is a cross-post from the Official Google Blog)

In December of this year, representatives from nations around the globe will gather in Copenhagen to discuss a global agreement on climate change. The objective is to reduce global warming emissions sufficiently in order to avoid the most severe impacts of climate change and to support the global community in adapting to the unavoidable changes ahead. Denmark will act as host for this fifteenth Conference of the Parties under the United Nations’ Climate Change Convention, known as COP15.

In collaboration with the Danish government and others, we are launching a series of Google Earth layers and tours to allow you to explore the potential impacts of climate change on our planet and the solutions for managing it. Working with data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), we show on Google Earth the range of expected temperature and precipitation changes under different global emissions scenarios that could occur throughout the century. Today we are unveiling our first climate tour on Google Earth: "Confronting Climate Change," with narration by Al Gore. Stay tuned for more tours in the coming weeks!


Together with the Danish government, we're also launching our YouTube COP15 channel. On the channel, you can submit your thoughts and questions on climate change to decision-makers and the world through an initiative called "Raise Your Voice." These videos will be broadcast on screens around the conference in December and rated by viewers of the channel. The top-rated contributions will be aired globally during the COP15 CNN/YouTube debate on December 15th, and the top two submissions will win a trip to Copenhagen. We look forward to seeing your videos

Posted by Justin Baird, Google Australia

Larchmont-Adjacent Gramercy Row Condos @ 140 S Gramercy Place

Just a few blocks from some of the most august homes of Windsor Square is Gramercy Row, a new seven-unit condominium building with townhouse-style residences. A lot of living is packed into these 3-story homes -- 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, walk-in closets and roof decks.

Units are priced $699,000 - $809,000, and range from 1,250 sq ft - 1,760 sq ft. HOA is $391 for all units.

On the ground floor is living-kitchen area with double-height ceilings. Floors are polished concrete. Appliances are Frigidaire. Cabinetry is walnut.

Units get lots of natural light from the over-sized floor-to-ceiling windows. All units are accessed from the passageway visible here, which is controlled by a security gate.

Bathrooms feature double basin sinks, and separate tube and showers.

Like many townhome-style residences, this is vertical living. The upper levels have bamboo flooring.

One bedroom is on the mezzanine level.

The master bedroom is on the 3rd floor. Views clear the nearby buildings.

The roof deck is accessed from a spiral staircase located in the corner of the master bedroom.

Those looking to live close to Larchmont Village should consider Gramercy Row. This enclave stands out for its design and bedroom and bath count.

Sold by Prudential California Realty

New Listings, New Escrows & Sold Properties

Here's what's been happening with Palm Springs real estate as of Friday, September 18th through Sunday the 20th.

CENTRAL PALM SPRINGS
New Listings

2290 Tamarisk Rd, Ruth Hardy Park , 4/2 $460,000
266 S Lugo Rd., St. Baristo, 2/2.5, $885,000

In Escrow

1080 E Paseo El Mirador, Ruth Hardy Park, 3/2, $395,000
1221 Mary Fleming Cir, Colony El Mirador, 3/4, $1,065,000
280 S Avenida Caballeros #121, Caballeros Estates, 2/2, $174,500

Sold Properties

483 E Calle Begonia, Sundial Condos, 2/2, Sundial Condos, $160,000

645 E Chuckwalla Rd., Ruth Hardy Park, $399,000
246 Vereda Norte, Old Las Palmas, 3/4, $800,000

SOUTH PALM SPRINGS
New Listings

5300 E Waverly Dr #K15, PS Golf & Tennis Club, 1/1, $145,000
2001 E Camino Parocela #L86, Mesquite Country Club, 2/2, $239,000
3505 E Sonora Rd., Los Compadres, 3/2, $550,000

In Escrow

1010 E Palm Canyon Dr #204, Biltmore Colony, 2/2, $225,000
1645 S Sunrise Way, Deepwell, 3/3, $289,800
355 W El Portal, The Mesa, 4/3.5, $450,000
259 W Camino Alturas, The Mesa, 5/5, $564,540

Sold

1510 S Camino Real #210A, Biltmore, 2/1.75, $89,900

Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.RS Associates, Steve Frank, (760) 333-264 Steve@rsinthedesert.com

Let the Power of Two work for You!

Nickels and dimes add up with our buyer and seller incentives. Ask us how we can save you money when you buy or sell with us.

EVO South -- 75% Sold -- Yet Prime Units and Value Will Wow Even Jaded Buyers

Updated 3/11/2010: EVO is now 75% sold and 70% occupied. Pull up a chair by the pool, this is one of the hottest spots in Downtown Los Angeles. Many of the unique 51 (count them!) floorplans are sold out, but excellent units remain (of 310 total units on 23 floors), including one bedrooms. Serious buyers should investigate the building now.

EVO -- prices of 1 br, 1 ba units available 3/11/10:

#610 -- $520,000 -- 858 sq ft -- West Facing Terrace
#1314 -- $485,000 -- 858 sq ft -- West Facing
#1106 -- $460,000 -- 890 sq ft -- West Facing
#1405 -- $430,000 -- 914 sq ft -- East View
#1207 -- $420,000 -- 954 sq ft -- East View

EVO -- prices of "Featured 2 Bedroom Homes" available 3/11/10:

#1702 -- $1,475,000 -- 2,346 sq ft -- SW Corner unit
#1906 -- $810,000 -- 1,177 sq ft -- West Balcony
#1910 -- $775,000 -- 1,160 sq ft -- West Balcony
#1108 -- $730,000 -- 1,177 sq ft -- West Balcony

(Above) Views from the two, large 23rd Floor EVO South Penthouses, listed for over $3 million each. Downtown at your footsteps.

Northeast view from a 12th Floor one-bedroom unit. Eastern Columbia Building in the distance.

West view from a 6th floor one bedroom unit. LA Live, Staples, Ritz Carlton Tower surround you.

EVO South in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles is a plush, "green", super high-quality product. The location, construction, amenities, and $/sq value are excellent.

We (still) think EVO South is one of the best projects in Downtown. If you have any questions about EVO, you can contact us by clicking here.

Sold by The Mark Company.

Palm Springs Homes for Sale

Palm Springs Homes for Sale. Palm Springs Real Estate opportunities in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Are you looking for mid century modern or Spanish ranch or colonial for a vacation home, a full-time residence, or investment property? Find them here, including foreclosures and short sale. Thanks for visiting out real estate blog!

Here's the activity for Thursday, 9/17/09.

Central Palm Springs:

New Listings:

1629 E Verbena Dr., Ruth Hardy Park, 2/2, $469,000.

334 Villagio E., The Villas in Old PS, 3/3.5, $699,900.

1505 N Rose Ave., Las Palmas Heights, 4/4.5, $1,895,000.

In Escrow:

280 S Avenida Caballeros, Caballeros Estates, 2/2, $134,000.

1170 E Via Colusa, Ruth Hardy Park, 2/2, $399,000.

Sold:

None

South Palm Springs:

New Listings:

5779 Los Coyotes Dr., #13, Villas De Las Flores, 2/2, $239,000.

2033 E Ramon Rd, #6C, Firebird, 2/2, $245,000.

355 W El Portal, The Mesa, 4/3.5, $450,000.

1787 Miro Ct., Pintura, 4/3.5, $515,000.

In Escrow:

780 E Palm Canyon Dr., #101, Biltmore Colony, 2/2, $230,000.

550 E Bogert Trl., Andreas Hills, 3/3.5, $630,000. (foreclosure)

3173 Avenida Sevilla, Andreas Hills, 5/5.5, $1,200,000. (foreclosure)

Sold:

568 S Indian Trl., Warm Sands, 2/2, $280,000. (foreclosure)

Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

Palm Springs: A Best Place to Retire!

Palm Springs: A Best Place to Retire!

#2 ain't bad!

CNNMoney.com has the story.

Russell Hill RS Associates

Palm Springs Homes for Sale

Palm Springs Homes for Sale. Palm Springs Real Estate opportunities in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Are you looking for a vacation home, investment property or full-time residence? Find it on our Palm Springs real estate blog. Mid century modern, Spanish ranch or colonial. We have them all! Caballeros Estates, Little Tuscany, Tahquitz River Estates, The Mesa, Versailles.

Here's the activity for Wednesday, September 16, 2009.

If you're new to our blog, welcome! Click on the link at the property address to see property details and pictures. Thanks for visiting!

Central Palm Springs:

New Listings:

459 Bradshaw Ln., Pueblo Sands, 2/2, $89,900. (foreclosure)

280 S Avenida Caballeros, #238, Caballeros Estates, 2/0, $114,000. (foreclosure)

In Escrow:

3480 E Chia Rd., El Rancho Vista Estates, 3/2, $214,900.

Sold:

401 S El Cielo Rd., #156, La Palme, 2/2, $141,000.

1700 Royal Desert Palms Ct., Little Tuscany, 3/4.5, $688,000. (foreclosure)

South Palm Springs:

New Listings:

1625 Paseo De La Palma, Tahquitz Canyon, 1/1.5, $104,900. (foreclosure)

2023 Normandy Ct., Versailles, 2/2, $149,900. (foreclosure)

2435 Los Patos Dr., Villas De Las Flores, 1/1.5, $157,900.

1150 E Mesquite Ave., Tahquitz River Estates, 3/3, $599,000.

2065 S Palm Canyon Dr., The Mesa, 4/3, $785,000.

In Escrow:

164 E Via Huerto, Canyon West Estates, 2/3, $224,900. (foreclosure)

Sold:

None

Source: Desert Area MLS Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

Palm Springs Real Estate - New Listing - Biltmore Colony

Palm Springs Real Estate - New Listing - Biltmore Colony

We have a new listing

in the

Biltmore Colony. Beautiful 2/2 with large South and West facing patio. Magnificent views from just about every window of the Santa Rosa Mountains and Mt San Jacinto! Fireplace, 2-car tandem garage, inside laundry. Bright and light! Fee simple (you own) land. Asking $225,000.

960 E Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92264. Biltmore Colony

Contact us if you want more information, or would like a private showing.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

Mobile and Baldwin County - August 2009 Real Estate Trends and Statistics

Please check out our latest post over at the Gulf Region Properties Team Blog at the Active Rain website.

At first look the sales numbers do not look good. July was a great month as far as statistics goes and August was not too far behind.

Please let me know if you have any questions. E-mail me at Steve@GulfRegionProperties.com or call me at 251-215-9382.

Why are pirates called pirates? They just arrrrrrrrrrrrr!

Arrrrr me hearties! Stow the hatches and grab ‘yer mates for a grand ole' time! Saturday rings in the 8th annual International Talk like a Pirate Day. Here are our top ten tips for helping you unleash your inner buccaneer.

Become immersed in pirate language. Go to your Google preferences page and switch your default language to “Pirate”. Back in 2008, Google realised that our products were not accessible to a large, influential and notoriously quick-tempered community - pirates! We quickly remedied this with the “Pirate” language option. Then check out the “Google Searrrch” or the “I Be Feelin’ Lucky” buttons. If you get good enough at navigating around in 'Pirate', one day you might graduate to this special keyboard.

Find a mentor. Watch or re-watch Pirates of the Caribbean for a bit of Jack Sparrow inspiration. Johnny Depp’s infamous character takes you on a cursed adventure through the high seas - a great way to get in the mood. Check out the search spikes among Australians when the two Pirates of the Caribbean movies came out.

Get a name. Be creative and remember a name is nothing without an act! So get your accent on Red Beard, and find your very own pirate name.

Assemble a crew. A pirate without a crew is a lonely man. Nothing but a scurrvy dog. Gather like-minded scallywags to support your adventures.

Look the part. Get yourself an eye-patch, a bandana, a plastic sword or even a toy parrot. In order to be the part, you have to look the part. Ripped shorts are a must, and a dirty mop is a great accessory to any pirate outfit.

Learn phrases. Speak the part by using phrases such as “Shiver me timbers!” and “Heave ho me hearties!” Here is your first talk like a pirate lesson.

And, never enunciate them. “You are” and “he is” are not words you will ever hear from a pirate. They mutter and slur their words together. In fact, they often say things that make no sense at all, but they always say it with the utmost conviction - like "Me'n'these here scurvy drivelswiggers drug our sorry keesters out t'th' 'orlop and had us a grand adventarrrrr!"

Embellish. True pirates are larger than life, so embellish at will. A pirate’s whale-of-a-tale is never tall enough! It’s the one day a year that the fish really was that larrrge.

Drink up. Why not try some of your very own drink ideas? Pirate punch, anyone? In a large bowl, mix 1 part pineapple juice, 1 part orange juice concentrate, 2 parts lemonade. All that citrus will help you fight off the scurrvy.

Growl and scowl often. Pirates have seen it all and they are not cultured or graceful. Here 'arr a few examples.

Posted by Davey Jones, Google Australia

Palm Springs Real Estate - Open house - The Point

Palm Springs Real Estate - Open House - The Point

Open house Saturday, September 19, 2009, 12-2pm

1655 Beverly, #F, Palm Springs, CA 92264, The Point

2 bed/2 bath condo w/ vaulted ceilings, fireplace, single-car garage, inside laundry room, large kitchen. Listed at $169,000. Short Sale. Fee simple (you own) land.

click on the link above (at the address) to see property details and additional pics.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959/902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

The "Recession is Over" but Commercial Real Estate Investors Sidelined by Uncertain Market

On Tuesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke proclaimed, at long last, that the recession is "very likely" over.

What impact will the end of the “great recession” have on real estate investors?

It will largely depend on the asset class, region and investment objectives, but the general consensus is that the big, gut-wrenching price drops have already been factored in, and that, although prices continue to decline, the rate of decline has ebbed.

And what might some investors be waiting for? Blood in the streets, or in common parlance, distress, defaults, and foreclosures.

According to the third quarter 2009 PricewaterhouseCooper Korpacz Real Estate Investor Survey, released on Wednesday, most equity investors have remained on the sidelines waiting to capitalize on forced sales and more motivated selling on the part of distressed owners…

"Investors are mostly waiting because of a lack of motivated and forced selling on the part of distressed lenders and property owners," Susan Smith, director of PricewaterhouseCooper’s real estate advisory practice… "Although most investors feel that market conditions will continue to deteriorate over the next several months, the extent of the further deterioration is not so great that they believe that buying now is considered 'bad.'" [Commercial Property Executive]

So, what is an investor to do today? Circle patiently and swoop in when the best assets hit the auction block? Or, keep a canny eye on the market, and, knowing that competition is in retreat, “cherry pick” the best deals?

Both are viable strategies. There is no harm in waiting, especially in these uncertain times. But excellent, unique opportunities surface at unpredictable times, and investors should not turn a blind eye to these “deals” when they present themselves.

Palm Springs Homes for Sale

Palm Springs homes for sale. Palm Springs real estate opportunities in many of Palm Springs' most popular neighborhoods and condo communities. Looking for mid century modern, Spanish ranch or colonial as your Palm Springs vacation home, investment property or full-time residence? Find them here, including foreclosures and short sales.

Here's the activity for Tuesday, 9/15/09.

Central Palm Springs:

New Listings:

1050 E Ramon Rd., #11, Ramon Estados, 2/2, $113,800. (foreclosure)

500 E Amado Rd., #722, Deauville, 1/2, $213,900.

222 W Chino Dr., Las Palmas, 3/4, $1,999,000.

In Escrow:

None

Sold:

1219 Via Tenis, Sunrise Racquet Club, 2/2, $180,000. (foreclosure)

South Palm Springs:

New Listings:

5300 E Waverly Dr., #c1, Palm Springs Golf/Tennis, 1/1.5, $91,100. (foreclosure)

1646 Miramar, Fairways, 1/1, $99,900. (foreclosure)

3831 E Camino San Miguel, Demuth Park, 3/1, $185,000.

In Escrow:

2001 E Camino Parocela #P110, Mesquite Country Club, 2/2, $184,900. (foreclosure)

500 S Farrell Dr., #A4, Mesquite Country Club, 2/2, $199,000.

215 Desert Lakes Dr., Seven Lakes Country Club, 2/2, $299,000.

1560 S Paseo De Marcia, Deepwell, 3/2, $449,000. (foreclosure)

Sold:

None

Source: Desert Area MLS. Listings are not necessarily those of Zephyr Real Estate/RS Associates.

Russell Hill RS Associates 760.203.2959 /902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com

Habitat 15 @ 1322 Detroit Avenue, West Hollywood Area

Habitat 15 at 1322 Detroit Avenue is an excellent addition to the east part of the West Hollywood area. What's great about this neighborhood is you can walk to stores (Target) and some of the best restaurants and bars old (Formosa Cafe), classic (Jones) and new (Crown Bar). And all the action of Hollywood is only steps away.

 

This funky 15-unit building has some imaginative architecture courtesy of Predock_Frane Architects. All units have 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths (except for one 3.5 bath unit). Prices range from $599,000 - $849,000. Unit size ranges from 1,207 sq ft to 2,013 sq ft.

  

Residences are two- and three-level. Ten of the units are accessed from the third floor; the remaining five lower units are accessed from the first floor.

  

Model unit #12 is a three-level, front-facing unit, with entry on the 3rd floor to kitchen/living area.

Appliances are stainless steel and are Jenn Air and Kitchen Aid.  Countertops are Caesarstone.

  

The fourth floor bedroom has incredible western views of the Sunset Strip - Hollywood Hills from the large picture window.

Baths have Toto toilets, Hansgrohe plumbing fixtures, and Duravit porcelain sinks.

 

The second bedroom is on the second floor.

 

On the second floor there's also a den/office area.

 

Model Unit #6 is also accessed on the 3rd floor. The fourth floor has a bedroom that is east-facing.

  

The bedroom also has a small balcony.

 

The unit has an open plan and skylights.

These residences have many upgrades -- Milgard dual pane windows, washer/dryer hook-ups, central AC and heat.  All residences are pre-wired for cable, satellite, internet, and for flat-screen TVs.  Buyers have many customizable options.

HOA for two units advertised is a low $299.  Parking is side-by-side.  This is an impressive project that offers quality and value and some really cool design.

Habitat 15
1322 Detroit Avenue
Los Angeles, CA  90046

Sold by Deasy/Penner & Partners