Coachella Valley Real Estate By Kimberley, SFR, HAFA, GREEN
Residential, Equestrian, Land
I Do Real Estate The Same Way I Played Polo – To Win!
Coachella Valley Properties By Kimberley, SFR, HAFA, GREEN
Residential, Equestrian, Land
I Do Real Estate The Same Way I Played Polo – To Win!

Archive for November 2013

3 House Hunting Tips

3 House Hunting Tips

3 tips for house huntingSearching for Palm Springs homes for sale can be very overwhelming. Here are three tips for making your house hunt easier and more efficient.

1. Get your budget right. The first thing to consider when you are ready to start looking for your dream home in Indian Wells or another part of the Palm Springs Valley is budget. It’s a good idea to get pre-approved or a mortgage, if possible so that you know your exact budgetary parameters. Once you have your price range in mind, you can start looking for Palm Springs homes for sale that fit your budget. It’s good to not max out on what you can afford and to have contingency funds set aside for any emergencies or unexpected repairs.

2. Choose your neighborhood. Once you’ve set your budget, the next step is to narrow down the areas where you would like to live. Factors to consider are your work commute, and if you have children, proximity to good schools. The next thing to think about is the type of setting that appeals to you and your family. Do you want to live in an up-and-coming urban area or do you prefer something more suburban? Or are you looking for a rural area that would be appropriate for equestrian homes? You may also want to consider your proximity to various amenities, such as shopping, dining options, nightlife and other recreational activities.

3. Find the right help. Whether it’s a buyers’ or sellers’ market, it’s important to find an experience real state professional to work with. Finding a realtor with local expertise and contacts are a huge bonus, especially when you’re searching for equestrian homes. Look online for listings and send them to your realtor if you are interested in them or if you just want to show the kind of property that appeals to you. This will also help you narrow down which amenities are most important for you.

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Kick Off the Holiday Season in Palm Springs

Kick Off the Holiday Season in Palm Springs

Wildlights FestivalThanksgiving weekend kicks of the holidays with a bevy of cool festivities for the entire family to enjoy. If you are visiting for the weekend or are in town to look at listings of international real estate, this is the perfect opportunity to see how lively and dynamic the Palm Springs community is.

From Friday, November 29 through Sunday, December 1, the 32nd Annual Cabazon Band of Mission Indians: Indio Powwow will be in full effect at the Fantasy Springs Casino in the venue’s Special Events Center. This festive celebration brings together tribes and non-tribal visitors for a unique cultural event that includes performances by dancers and singers in full tribal regalia. It’s an excellent event to check out if you’re already in town looking at Indio real estate.

The renowned unparalleled Wildlights Festival kicks off on Friday from 6 to 9 pm at the Living Desert, a must see for tourists and those in town from abroad to look at international real estate. This marks the festival’s 21st year of holiday celebration with over 740,000 lights, wildlife shows, carousel and camel rides, holiday refreshments and more. The festival continues through January 1, 2014.

On Saturday, November 30 from 10 am to 4 pm, Art Under the Umbrellas will take over the streets of charming Old Town La Quinta. More than 70 artists from wide-ranging genres participate at this event, making for a relaxing day spent browsing and shopping for unique works of art while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

On Sunday, December 1, a favorite of everyone from those who own Indio real estate to Palm Desert locals will place in its full glory: the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. This year, actress Lindsay Wagner will light the tree and kick off holiday festivities including a performance of holiday songs by the Palm Springs High School Choir. The event takes place at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway from 5:30 to 7 pm.

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Working With a Realtor vs. Selling on Your Own

Working With a Realtor vs. Selling on Your Own

Working with a realtorWhile you may know your Indio real estate inside and out, that doesn’t mean you’re best suited to sell your property on your own. Many sellers throw a “For Sale” sign onto their property and expect the rest to come easy, and that’s hardly ever the case. You may think the best way to maximize your profits and avoid paying commissions is to sell on your own, but statistics show that theory to be incorrect.

Whether it’s a sellers’ market or not, chances are that having a qualified, experienced realtor in your corner will garner you the best price for your property for a variety of reasons. Even the most beautiful Palm Desert homes for sale or property may need an expert’s touch when it comes to staging and marketing your property in its best light. In addition, a realtor with local expertise will have access to market information that a typical homeowner will not and can help sellers determine the most realistic price. Realtors know what comparable properties in the area are selling for and have sold for, and will be able to help you set reasonable expectations for the sale of your Indio real estate.

Selling a home can be a full-time job—do you really have the time to show your property and field inquiries regularly? A realtor can show your home when you’re at work or otherwise indisposed, and can respond to interested parties and answer questions on your behalf. In addition, they can screen those who visit the property, to ensure that they are truly interested in buying a home and can actually afford to do so. This provides an added measure of safety for you and your family that is priceless, and keeps you from wasting time on buyers who are not serious.

Last but not least, a realtor can give you objective, constructive ways to improve your home’s appearance. Even the most beautiful Palm Desert homes for sale may benefit from certain suggestions. A real estate professional can help you determine which repairs are must-dos and offer ways to significantly boost curb appeal.

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From Stargazing to Jack Jones

From Stargazing to Jack Jones
Joshua Tree National Park Stargazing

Stragazing at Joshua Tree National Park

Whether you’re in town to look at Indian Wells real estate, are on vacation or are a permanent resident of the Palm Springs Valley, there are lots of cool things to do this weekend. Check out just a few of the diverse activities on this weekend’s lineup.

On Saturday, November 23 from 5 to 8, the “My Night Sky” stargazing event will take place at Joshua Tree National Park. This cool outdoor event takes place at the Joshua Tree National Park’s Oasis Visitor Center, located at 74485 National Park Drive in Twentynine Palms. One of the many benefits of owning Palm Desert real estate and homes in the surrounding areas is the close proximity to the beauty of this one-of-a-kind park.

Also on Saturday, Jack Jones will perform at the McCallum Theatre. Jones is a jazz and pop singer who rose to popularity during the 1960s and was coined “one of America’s greatest singers of our time” by Frank Sinatra. The concert takes place from 8 to 10. In addition, Burt Bacharach will perform at the Fantasy Springs Casino from 8 to 10 pm on Saturday. These two venues are favorites of those who own Indian Wells real estate or live in one of the other desert cities.

On Sunday, November 24, Macho Gwapita’s The USA Tour 2013 will make a stop at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino from 3 to 5 pm. The show features Filipino pop singer Rico J. Puno, who is credited as a pioneer promoter of original Filipino music and Ai Ai Delas Alas, known as the Philippine Queen of Comedy,

On Sunday November 24 from 7 to 9, The Kingston Trio will perform at the McCallum Theatre. Famed for paving the way for the folk music movement of the early 1960s, The Kingston Trio’s hits include “Tijuana Jail,” “Scotch And Soda” and “Hard, Ain’t It Hard.” A favorite of locals and those who own Palm Desert real estate, the McCallum Theatre is located at 73000 Fred Waring Drive.

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Stars, Miracles and Collector Cars

Stars, Miracles and Collector Cars
Palm Springs homes for sale

A Miracle on El Paseo

The holiday season is starting to kick off in Palm Springs, which means that residents, visitors and those in town to invest in international real estate have a ton of exceptional activities in store. The coming weeks promise to be unforgettable, starting with the exciting lineup this weekend.

All weekend long, the McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction will be going on at the Spa Resort Casino. This annual auction is fun for the entire family, and provides the unique opportunity to bid, buy or just check out more than 500 exotic, classic cars.

On Friday, November 22, Meet the Galen will take place at the Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert. This festival type event and membership drive kicks off the museum’s 75th Anniversary season with Galen at The Galen, an art exhibition from the private collection of Helene Galen. All funds raised at this event directly support the museum, which is a favorite of all those who own Palm Desert real estate or live in the neighboring areas. The event takes place from 6 to 8 pm.

Also on Friday, the legendary Herb Alpert and his wife Lani Hall will perform from 8 to 10 pm at the McCallum Theatre. Alpert is the iconic trumpet player who recorded both with the Tijuana Brass and as a solo artist, to win eight Grammy awards and yield nearly 30 platinum and gold albums.

On Saturday, November 23 from 5 to 8 pm, a favorite of all locals and those in town to invest in international real estate will be in full effect—A Miracle on El Paseo. This amazing street fair and shopping extravaganza takes over The Shops on El Paseo and features fun entertainment and activities, including the Grand Illumination of El Paseo’s 60-foot Tree of Lights, music from a 20 piece band and performances by professional ice skaters.

This holiday season is certain to inspire you to make a move to the stunning Palm Springs Valley. Click here to view listings of Palm Desert real estate and the neighboring desert cities.

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Maximizing Exposure of Your Property

Maximizing Exposure of Your Property

Maximize exposure of your home for saleOnce you’ve decided to put your Rancho Mirage real estate on the market, established a listing price and found a realtor you trust, your next step is to maximize the exposure of your property to prospective buyers. While it’s fair to expect your realtor to have a solid marketing plan in place, it’s good to arm yourself with as much information about the process as possible so that you can boost and support their efforts.

If your real estate in Indian Wells or elsewhere has already been listed, it should be in prime condition. It should also be listed at a competitive price, which is something you can work with your realtor to determine. While your realtor may have already given you suggestions for making your home as appealing as possible and for boosting curb appeal, it is up to you and your family to keep it clean, pristine and free of clutter. Buyers want to be able to look at your Rancho Mirage real estate and imagine themselves living there—to bolster their ability to do that, you need to do some de-cluttering and depersonalizing. The last thing you want them to do is walk into a house and see closet space bulging at the seams, a garage with boxes stacked to the ceiling or cluttered countertops. This will make them think your property is less spacious than it really is.

Once you’ve de-cluttered and depersonalized, consult with your realtor to determine what absolutely needs to be repaired in order to attract the best offers. After any repairs are completed, you’ll want to stage the property beautifully. While your real estate in Indian Wells may be gorgeous and picturesque to begin with, staging will still boost its appeal. If necessary, you can consult with a professional to establish the best outward appearance. From that point, you’ll need to take superb photos—or have a professional take them—and make sure your online listing does your property justice.

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Just listed at Indian palms country club; $291,000!

If you have been looking for a single-family residence at the Indian palms country club in Indio California, be sure to include this gorgeous bungalow style home, on one of the premier sites in the club. 82272 Shirley Cir. is beautifully maintained, and boasts one of the best locations and views you will find in the club… Particularly for under $300,000!!

82272 Shirley circle  was built in 2001,  is approximately 1700 ft.²,  and offers three bedrooms two bathrooms,  a quiet cul-de-sac location , mature landscaping including citrus trees and roses , and a recently updated  saltwater pool and spa.  The lot is over 10,000 ft.² and faces West, For amazing sun and views , and is completely enclosed.  The unobstructed golf course  view allows  your eyes to travel all the way up the fairway to the chocolate Mountains .

The inside of the home features an open floor plan,  a large kitchen island,  new appliances , plantation shutters,  custom Saltillo tile floors and fireplace surround , new paint  both inside and out,  and with multiple windows and sliders , the interior of the home is bathed  in light . This home is unique and desirable in terms of an investment , and charming and warm  in terms of a primary  or vacation home . Come out and see the home for yourself on Sunday  November 17  from 1 to 4 PM .

 

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Art, Dance and Country Music

Art, Dance and Country Music

Art Under the UmbrellasThis is the perfect weekend to look at Palm Springs homes for sale, and enjoy yourself while you’re at it. From dance theater and world-class choreography performance to eclectic art and the sounds of country music legends, there is something for every taste imaginable in the Coachella Valley.

On Friday, November, the Lula Washington Dance Theatre performs at the McCallum Theatre. This Los Angeles-based repertory dance ensemble features music from acclaimed film composer and jazz musician Terrence Blanchard. The show takes place from 8 to 10 pm. Also on Friday night, Theresa Caputo will appear at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino from 9 to 11 pm.

On Saturday, November 16, Art Under the Umbrellas will take place in Old Town La Quinta from 10 to 4 pm. Over 70 artists participate at this art show, located along the closed-off streets of this outdoor area that is a must-see if you’re considering real estate in La Quinta. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and artwork and immerse yourself in the charming area.

On Saturday from 6 to 8 pm, nine-time Tony Award winning actor, dancer, choreographer and singer Tommy Tune will perform at the Annenberg Theater. There will also be a tribute concert for Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton at the Indian Wells Theater at California State University, San Bernadino in Palm Desert. From 8 to 10 pm, the McCallum Theatre will host a performance by Les Ballet Jazz de Montreal. This one of a kind dance company fuses ballet, modern and street dance in a dynamic, unforgettable show that tours all across the globe. Either of these events are a perfect way to unwind after spending the day looking at Palm Springs homes for sale.

Click here to view listings of real estate in La Quinta and properties in other areas of the Palm Springs Valley.

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Getting Your Financial House in Order

Getting Your Financial House in Order

Get Your Financial House in OrderWhether you’re seeking luxury properties for an investment in the international real estate market or are looking for equestrian homes in the Palm Springs Valley, buying property is a significant transaction that typically requires a lot of time and effort. There are many elements that go into just the preparation alone—you have to find a realtor or listing agent you can work with, assemble the savings necessary for the down payment, closing costs and any other associated fees, and you need to qualify for a loan.

To get your financial house in order, you should start with your credit score. The first thing to do is request reports from the three major credit agencies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. From there, you can get your credit score and examine your reports to see if there are any discrepancies that need to be corrected or anything negative that you can get removed. These reports will show any late payments, judgments and other credit problems that you might have on your record. Keep in mind you’ll need to scour each report, as they will show different items and yield different scores. Low credit scores can hurt your chances of getting the best interest rate for financing that new home or international real estate purchase, or even prevent it altogether. Once you start working on repairing your credit, it can take up to two to three months for the issues to be resolved.

Your next step is to determine your purchasing power. There are many online calculators that can help you determine what you can afford and how much your mortgage payments will be, based on your credit, income and the amount of your down payment. Whether you’re interested in equestrian homes or other types of properties, a general guideline is to aim to find a property that costs no more than two and a half times your gross yearly income.

From there, you’ll need to save up the cash for your down payment and other associated costs. Typically, lenders require your down payment to be around 20 percent of the home’s total price.

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3 Reasons to Retire in Palm Springs

3 Reasons to Retire in Palm Springs

Retiring in Palm SpringsHomes for sale in Palm Springs are in demand across many demographics, but especially retirees and those preparing for that stage of their life. It makes perfect sense for a variety of reasons, from the region’s idyllic charm and big city amenities to the sunny year round weather, variety of outdoor activities and vast recreational options.

Whether you’re looking for Palm Desert real estate or homes in another part of the Coachella Valley, you’re bound to fall in love with the entire area’s charm. Every city is picturesque, safe and relaxing. The list of reasons why so many buyers are scooping up homes for sale in Palm Springs is long, so here are just some of the top three we’ve recently heard.

  1. Golf, golf, golf. Palm Springs is famous for its myriad of championship golf courses and array of world class country clubs. There are options appropriate for all levels of players, as well as both amateur and professional tournaments, such as the famed Humana Challenge, formerly known as the Bob Hope Classic, that takes place at the La Quinta Country Club each year.
  2. The outdoor activities. One of the main reasons people search for Palm Desert real estate is the region’s beautiful weather and the wide-ranging recreational activities available. There are superb tennis clubs, such as the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, and gorgeous hiking, cycling and horseback riding trails nestled against the picturesque backdrops of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountain ranges.
  3. The indoor activities. Palm Springs is home to a variety of superb resorts and spas where residents and visitors can relax and rejuvenate. There are also incredible options for fine dining, concerts, theater and art shows, such as the ones that take place in the Backstreet Art District. In addition, Palm Springs offers incredible shopping, from the chic upscale boutiques on El Paseo Boulevard and mid-century modern retailers to antique stores filled with one-of-a-kind finds and the renowned designer outlets at Cabazon.

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