If you have a growing family, there are many additional concerns to keep in minding when buying real estate. Whether you are interested in Indio homes for sale or another part of Palm Springs, there’s more to consider than square footage and how many bedrooms a house has. If you’re looking for your dream property in Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells or another part of California, here are a few things to keep in mind.
- The future. Take stock of your future plans. Are you going to have more children? Do you have a boy and a girl? Do you want there to be a guest bathroom that is separate from the children’s bathroom? Does your family have pets? What size backyard are you looking for? And a common question that crosses the minds of those looking at Indio homes for sale: do you want a pool? Be thorough in assessing your needs and be realistic about what is available within the constraints of your budget.
- The school system. How close is the home you’re looking at to schools? Does the public school system meet your children’s needs or will you need to find a private school? What is the student-teacher ratio at the schools you are interested in and how do the students’ test scores rank?
- The neighborhood. Just like adults need work/life balance, children need a balance of school and play. How close are the parks and playgrounds? What type of extracurricular activities do your children want to pursue? You may want to assess the proximity of dance classes or a gymnastics school, as well as nearby sports programs, football fields, basketball courts and baseball diamonds. Another thing to consider is access to swimming pools, hiking trails, horse stables for those interested in horseback riding and places for safe bicycling.
If you do some research, you’re sure to find the perfect home for your entire family. If you’re ready to get the process started, click here to see listings of property in Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells and other areas of the Coachella Valley.
More
Whether you’re searching for Palm Desert real estate or looking at equestrian properties, it’s important to consider the surrounding neighborhoods. Luckily, the neighborhoods in areas like Palm Springs Valley tend to be very safe and upscale. However, you should always do your due diligence before making the commitment of investing in real estate. You’re not just buying land, brick and mortar—you’re buying into a neighborhood. Take some time to research the area with these important factors in mind.
The school system. If you have children, make sure to research statistics about the schools’ performance, graduation rates, test scores and student-teacher ratios. Likewise, if you don’t have children and don’t want to be close to the noise that can sometimes be associated with them, you may want to make sure that the property you’re interested in is not in close proximity to any schools. If you’re looking at equestrian properties with lots of acreage, this will most likely not be an issue.
The commute. Practice your commute to work during rush hour so you have a realistic expectation. If you’re looking at real estate in a big city, research the mass transit options and perform a test run.
Ensure safe surroundings. Go online and do a criminal search, using the ZIP code’s crime statistics. You should also check the area in the National Sex Offender Public Website at NSOPW.gov.
Check different hours. Visit the property at different times of the day and night to see if there are any elements that may cause discomfort in your potential new home. Traffic, noise from pets and children, odors and other factors may not present themselves during the time you first look at the house.
Meet the community. Last but not least, try to meet some neighbors and residents of the community to get their takes on the pros and cons of the neighborhood.
Click here if you’re ready to view listings of Palm Desert real estate and get the process started.
image: socialmediaexaminer.com
More
If you’re trying to maximize exposure of the Indian Wells real estate you’re trying to sell or attract buyers from the international real estate market, you’re probably already aware of the importance of photos. Many photos. Buyers like to see as much as possible of the property they’re interested in, and from a wide array of angles. While we’ve been covering aspects of real estate photography in previous blog posts, here are a few quick tips to help you take the best photos you can when you don’t have a lot of time to prepare.
Adjust your lighting schemes. Try to light the room as evenly as possible, so that you can avoid having areas that are too dark or too bright. When a room is evenly lit, more detail will show. Play around with different combinations to achieve the most even lighting concept—turn lights on or off, bring in lamps from other rooms, try opening or closing shades, and when necessary, use your flash.
Avoid fluorescent lighting as much as possible. Fluorescent lighting tends to cast an unflattering shade of green in photos.
Don’t fear a cloudy day. Overcast skies can be great for shooting interiors of your Indian Wells real estate —the windows will appear bright but not too bright.
Step away from the self-timer. When you use the self-timer on a camera, make sure to let go of the camera so you don’t jar it during exposure—the result will be a perfect steady pic.
Try different angles. Take photos from different angles, and not just from the sides. If you’re tall, you may want to take some photos sitting down or kneeling. Likewise, if you’re short, try standing on a chair or a staircase for some good overheads shots.
Clean up. Details stand out in photos, especially those related to housekeeping. It’s best to schedule your photo shoot directly after the house is cleaned. Go the extra mile by moving trash cans out of sight and straighten anything that looks messy or cluttered.
If you’re interested in the international real estate market, click here to view some listings in Palm Springs Valley.
image: photographyforrealestate.net
More
The Jacklyn Sparrow Band performs at the Palm Canyon Theatre this weekend
Once again, Palm Springs has a ton of fun activities taking place this weekend! Whether you’re a film buff, a music lover or have a taste for cabaret, you’re sure to find something that’s a perfect way to enjoy your weekend. And even if you’re in town looking at Palm Springs homes for sale or properties in Indio, why not take a few hours off to unwind and get a feel for the community?
On Thursday, July 25, from 6 to 8 pm the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum will continues with a screening of The Parade. This unique film tells the story of a group of gay activists in Belgrade who strike a tense alliance with a Serbian crime boss named Limun. His fiancée demands an extravagant wedding that only Mirko, a struggling gay theater director, and his friends can provide—in exchange, macho Limun reluctantly agrees to provide security for the group’s Pride parade. The screening takes place at the Annenberg Theater.
On both Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27, the Jacklyn Sparrow Band will perform live at the Palm Canyon Theatre. Featuring lead vocalist Jacklyn Sparrow, this unique and talented group of musicians puts on a show with first class showmanship and dynamic theatrical entertainment. The band’s vast repertoire includes everything from Pop, Rock, Country and Dance to R&B, Motown, Disco, Jazz and classical, so this is sure to be a performance to remember. If you’re in town to look at Palm Springs homes for sale, there is no better way to unwind.
On Saturday, July 27, from 8 to 10 pm, popular country singer Sarah Evans will perform at the The Show at Agua Caliente Casino. Her number one singles include “No Place That Far”, “Born to Fly”, “Suds in the Bucket,” “A Little Bit Stronger and “A Real Fine Place to Start.”
On Sunday, July 28 from 2 to 4 pm, the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Keisha D… At Last. Keisha is a regular performer at clubs, benefits and events throughout Coachella Valley and has a huge following of fans. The performance takes place at the Arthur Newman Theatre.
Click here to look at listings of properties in Indio, La Quinta real estate and more!
image: jacklynsparrow.ca
More
For those of you who are new to the real estate game, as in buying or selling your first home, you may have a general idea of what closing is. But it helps significantly to really understand the entire process so you know what exactly you’re getting into if, for example, you’re about to make an offer on that Indian Wells real estate or property in La Quinta that you have your eye on. So here is a brief summary of the basics, so that you know exactly what “closing escrow” means to everyone involved.
Some people refer to closing as the “settlement” of the deal, which is exactly the point in time when the deal is set in stone—the mortgage is executed and the title is transferred to the buyer. At this point, the buyer should be fully aware of all the associated costs that incur with closing. Once you’re approved for a mortgage, the lender has three days to provide you with a “Good Faith Estimate” of all the associated costs. You should also receive an outline of the closing process, whether you’re buying the home you’ve always dreamed of or selling your Indian Wells real estate.
When it comes to closing, timing is essential. Once the seller agrees to accept an offer, the countdown begins. If you’re a buyer, by this time, you should have enlisted a professional to execute the rest of this process. You can find a reputable settlement agent through your real estate professional, or in many areas, the process will be executed by a real estate attorney, or by your escrow company or title company. Whoever handles the settlement will ensure that your down payment is deposited into the escrow account until the deal is officially done.
From here, the preliminary title work commences. In this phase, your title company will search public records for any information related to the property’s title. This is done to ensure that there are no issues related to the property, such as outstanding taxes or a judgment on the property so that the buyer is not left responsible for conditions they were unaware of before closing. Once this phase is cleared, a HUD-1 Settlement Statement, which outlines all associated costs for both the buyer and seller, is completed.
While there are typically post-closing details that are attended to, once you close, the property is yours (if you’re the buyer, of course). It may seem like you’re signing your life away, but once you close, you’ll be the proud owner of that dream property in La Quinta.
image: home.howstuffworks.com
More
Whether it’s the strength of their local currencies or the appeal of a having a second home in an area with gorgeous weather all year round, many foreign buyers with designs on the luxury international real estate market are eyeing the Palm Springs Valley. As buyers cast a wider net in terms of their desired areas, it makes sense to tap into this growing market when you list your real estate in Rancho Mirage or Indian Wells property.
Many buyers from all over the world, from Canada and Asia to Europe and Russia, have their eye on areas of the Coachella Valley. We’ve seen interest from international clients in everything from equestrian homes in Indio to luxury properties in Rancho Mirage and La Quinta real estate. At present, some of the states that have seen the most foreign interest when it comes to residential properties include Arizona, California, Nevada, Florida, Texas and New York.
One of the upsides of attracting buyers from the luxury international real estate market is that they are typically well-qualified. Few investors are going to make a trip to the states to look at properties if they are not serious. While the closing process is very similar, whether the buyer is foreign or local, research shows that more than half of the buyers from abroad pay cash, compared to the much lower rate of American buyers who do—less than 10 percent.
If you’re interested in attracting a buyer from this burgeoning market, it’s ideal to find a real estate professional who understands the process and knows how to work with foreign buyers and investors. Avoid loud, in-your-face marketing tactics and stage your home in a clean, minimalist manner. Many other regions, such as Europe and Scandinavia, prefer simple, classic designs and may be turned off by cluttered spaces.
Another good tactic is to emphasize the rental income angle, especially in an area like Palm Springs Valley, where real estate properties in Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells and Palm Desert are in high demand. The potential to offset costs can be very appealing to foreign investors.
More
Palm Canyon Trail to the Stone Pools
One of the many reasons so many people choose to move to Palm Springs and retire here are the plethora of recreational activities available to residents and visitors alike. Many seek Palm Springs homes for sale solely for its access to the natural desert beauty of the area.
Few areas can truly compete with some of the hiking trails and opportunities in the Palm Springs region. Whether you find that dream property in Palm Desert or an equestrian home in Thermal, you know you’ll have access to more than 140 hiking trails that offer scenic views of the gorgeous nearby Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountain ranges, as well as the most diverse topography and flora in the entire country. Whether you prefer the high country or to visit national state parks such as Joshua Tree or Mount San Jacinto State Park, you’ll find what you’re looking for among your extensive choice of hiking areas.
Below are a few favorites recommended by hikers who own property in Palm Desert and know what they’re talking about.
1. Whitewater Canyon / Pacific Crest Trail Ridge Loop. Also known as the Whitewater Preserve, this four mile long hike is considered easy, and therefore should be one the whole family can enjoy. You’ll gain between 300 and 400 feet as you trek along the canyon that is home to the renowned Whitewater River, and you’ll also access the famous Pacific Crest Trail, aka PCT. The amazing views of the Coachella Valley, as well as all of the distant and nearby mountain ranges, make this relaxing hike very worth your while.
2. Palm Canyon Trail to the Stone Pools. This six mile hike is considered of moderate difficulty. At the peak of this hike, you will have gained approximately 880 feet. Picturesque views of Palm Springs, the desert, plunging cliffs and waterfalls make this a gorgeous and memorable hike.
3. Lost Palms Oasis Trail at Cottonwood Spring. Located inside the magnificent Joshua Tree National Park, this eight mile trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty. You’ll gain 400 feet as you traverse everything from lush washes and plateaus to see a special group of palm trees called the Lost Palms Oasis.
If you’re an outdoor lover and ready to make a move to this spectacular area, click here to view listings of Palm Springs homes for sale.
image: palmspringslife.com
More
The Sundays in Summer Cabaret series is the perfect example the varied cultural activities that represent the rich and diverse arts communities in Palm Springs Valley. Every year, events like these inspire visitors to start looking at homes for sale in La Quinta so they too can be residents of this vibrant area.
Every year, Sundays in Summer Cabaret draws visitors from all over the state. The 2013 schedule runs from May 5 through October 27 at the Arthur Newman Theatre, the performance venue at the Joslyn Center, located at 73750 Catalina Way in Palm Desert. An absolute favorite of residents and those who own Palm Desert real estate, the series is presented by producer and entertainer, Les Michaels and his Life is a Cabaret organization. More than 90 acclaimed performers from all over the country have performed in this innovative series, now in its fourth season. Doors typically open at 1 pm, with the shows beginning at 2 pm.
Each show features exciting, show-stopping performances by Broadway performers, renowned musical directors and brilliant musicians who pay homage to some of the most important careers in musical theater. It’s no wonder that those in town to look at homes for sale in La Quinta take a break from open houses to take in these memorable performances.
Upcoming shows include Keisha D in At Last! on July 28, Deborah Wheeler-Ure and Joanne Lapointe in Hot Flashes with Divas Divine on August 4, Vicki Knight in Here’s To Life, Love, & You on August 11, Arinenne Battiste and Angelo Divino in Lucky So And So – Duke Ellington’s Life & Music on August 18, Norman Lassiter in Both Sides Now on August 25, and many more exciting shows through September and October.
If community events like these have you dreaming of Palm Desert real estate, click here to view our amazing listings.
image: tanagore.free.fr
More
Lonestar performs at the Morongo Casino on July 19
Once again, there is a rich slate of events scheduled for the upcoming weekend. If you’re considering buying Palm Springs real estate for retirement or are searching luxury international real estate for a vacation home, you can be certain that there’s always something to do, from attending indie film screenings and relaxing by the pool to hiking or seeing your favorite band perform under the stars.
On Thursday, July 18 the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum features a screening of Modest Reception from 6 to 8 pm at the Annenberg Theater. The unique comedy-drama tells the story of Leila and Kaveh, a cagey couple from Tehran, who travel the mountainous country by car to place large bags of cash in the hands of a variety of locals.
On Friday, July 19 from 9 to 11 pm, the Morongo Casino will host a concert by American country music group Lonestar, and at 10:30, another country performance by Doublewide. Saturday, July 20, Intocable, a Tejano/Norteño musical group from Zapata, Texas, will perform at the Spotlight 29 Casino from 8 to 10 pm. If you’re in town looking at luxury international real estate properties, it’s the perfect weekend to take a break and get your music fix!
On Sunday, July 21, the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Mark Reis in Diapers, Dishes, and Dreams at the Arthur Newman Theatre. Broadway performer and new dad, Mark Reis, shares the struggles of juggling a career and a baby while writing a children’s book in this innovative and entertaining show. Musical Direction by Scott Harlan and choreography by Hector Guerrero. The performance takes place from 2 to 4 pm.
Click here to see some phenomenal listings of Palm Springs real estate.
image: stardomreport.com
More
Finding horse properties can be a complicated process that requires extensive research and knowledge. It’s important to have an expert in your corner to guide you through the transaction and help you find a property that meets your needs and falls within your budget. Even when you hire a real estate professional, you still need to do your homework so that you don’t make money and time-wasting mistakes. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re looking at Indian Wells real estate and other potential locations for your new equestrian home.
Proximity to horse trails. You’ll want easy access to trails so that you can ride your horses and exercise them properly. Part of the point of buying an equine property is to make enjoying your horses and taking care of them convenient.
Accessibility. Are the barn and stables easy to access? Are the driveways wide enough to accommodate horse trailers, emergency vehicles and delivery trucks?
The Neighborhood. Check out the neighborhood surrounding the property you’re interested in. Are there other horse properties nearby? Neighbors who don’t own horses may not appreciate some of the odors, maintenance tasks and other issues related to having equine neighbors. If the community does not have a few other equestrian homes, you may want to reconsider the area.
Soil. Look for the appropriate soil type for each part of the property. You’ll want to avoid rocky soils and those that don’t drain well, such as clay, as they won’t make good pastures. For buildings, you’ll need dry soils with good drainage. Employ the help of an expert if you have limited knowledge about soils.
Vegetation. Evaluate the existing vegetation in the pastures and the property’s overall conditions. Whether you purchase Indian Wells real estate or a ranch near the mountains, there will be native shrubs and trees that give you excellent indications of how well the property has been kept up.
image: realestate.com
More
