Coachella Valley Real Estate By Kimberley, SFR, HAFA, GREEN
Residential, Equestrian, Land
I Do Real Estate The Same Way I Played Polo – To Win!
Contact Kimberley Today! Phone: 760-285-3578 Email: kjkpolo@gmail.com License # BRE01329387
Coachella Valley Properties By Kimberley, SFR, HAFA, GREEN
Residential, Equestrian, Land
I Do Real Estate The Same Way I Played Polo – To Win!

Coachella Valley Real Estate - Homes for sale in Coachella Valley

Midsummer events in Palm Springs

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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 

Tips for Choosing Horse Properties

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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

 

Film, Bluegrass and Dance

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Whether you live in Indio, Desert Hot Springs or are the lucky owner of La Quinta real estate, there’s always something to do in Palm Springs Valley within minutes of your location. The thriving arts and culture scene in the desert cities is unrivalled, no matter what time of year.  From independent film screenings and live music to outdoor cabaret performances, you’ll find activities for all ages—and enough to motivate those in the real estate market to search high and low for homes in Palm Desert.

On Thursday, July 11, the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum continues with Life Kills Me.  This clever comedy tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a grieving cinematographer and a morbidly obsessed drifter. The screening takes place at the Annenberg Theater from 6 to 8 pm.

From July 11 – 14, the ever popular JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa hosts The Desert Classic, four days of great dancing and fun in the sun. The event includes World Pro-Am Dancesport Series Qualifying Championships, Amateur Open International Ballroom and Latin Scholarships, Professional and Rising Star Events in all four styles, as well as junior events. A popular venue favored by tourists from all over the world and owners of homes in Palm Desert alike, the renowned JW Marriott is located at 74855 Country Club Drive in Palm Desert.

On Saturday July 13 and Sunday, July 14, Idyllwild Lemon Lily Festival & Blue Grass Music will be in full effect at the Idyllwild Nature Center. The unique festival features activities and fun for all ages, including a local arts and crafts show, a native plant sale, Pioneer Town and educational exhibits and speakers. The event takes place on both days from 9 am to 4 pm.

On Sunday, July 14, Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Ronstadt, Riddle & Robyn starring Robyn Spangler, who was voted LA’s Best Female Cabaret Artist 2011 by Broadway World. Accompanied by the world-famous Todd Schroeder on piano and Tim Christensen on bass, Spangler will cover songs such as What’s New, I’ve Got A Crush On You, Crazy He Calls Me, Someone To Watch Over Me and more. The performance takes place at the Arthur Newman Theatre from 2 to 4 pm.

Just another weekend in Palm Springs Valley! Click here to learn more about the community and find listings of La Quinta real estate.

image: accessdance.com

First time buyer tips

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Whether you plan to live in your first home for several decades or if want to sell your Palm Spring real estate just a few years after you buy it, it’s important to inform and educate yourself so that you understand every aspect of the process. Buying your first home can be very exciting and overwhelming, which is why you need to arm yourself with information so that you clearly understand all your financial responsibilities. Here are a few basic tips for getting through the process as smoothly as possible.

Know your real budget. Often times, buyers qualify for loans and get so excited about the opportunity that they immediately start looking at homes for sale in Indian Wells or luxury properties that they can’t really afford. While you may be able to afford your monthly mortgage payment, there are other costs to consider and factor into your budget. There will be closing costs, home improvements and new furniture needed, as well as insurance and the possibility of Homeowners Association (HOA) fees in certain communities. You’ll also want to have an emergency fund for any unforeseen accidents that may require repairs. Once you determine those costs, you’ll be able to determine a realistic budget.

Determine necessary repairs. Before you purchase that gorgeous Palm Springs real estate property, make sure you know exactly which repairs are necessary. The last thing you want to do is move in and discover that the plumbing doesn’t work and needs to be repaired immediately—it would add an immense amount of stress to the move. It will behoove you to schedule an inspection by a trusted source, and if the situation warrants, an appraisal. Point out all defects to the seller and require that repairs be made prior to closing or determine the costs of each and negotiate with the owner to deduct it from the asking price.

Search for hidden fees. Scour every page of your contracts and paperwork for any seemingly nominal fees and charges. Ask questions about each and look for valid explanations. The smaller charges can add up to hundreds of unexpected dollars.

If you’re ready to start looking at homes for sale in Indian Wells, click here to view our excellent listings.

image: michiganmortgagesolutions.com 

Top 3 Benefits of Homeowners Associations

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In the United States, millions of people live in complexes or communities governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA). A HOA is a corporation typically formed by a real estate developer so that they can manage the sales of real estate in a residential subdivision. Many Palm Springs homes for sale and property in Palm Desert falls under this category, so we thought our readers might appreciate learning about the benefits living in this type of community brings.

An HOA provides developers with privileged voting rights to govern the association while marketing and selling the homes or lots. Once they sell a predetermined number of lots, they are relieved of financial and legal responsibility of the organization and can then transfer it to the HOA. In most communities governed by a HOA, membership is required as a condition of purchase.

Much research indicates that many people enjoy living in communities governed by an HOA. We’ve seen it over and over again among buyers of property in Palm Desert as well, so we asked some experts why they thought homeowners enjoyed living in HOA communities so much. Here are the top 3 reasons they gave:

1. HOAs create communities. When you live in a community governed by an HOA, you know that every resident has agreed to certain rules and regulations, so there are no grey areas, which removes stress between neighbors. In addition, many HOAs coordinate mixers and other events so that you can get to know your neighbors and have an opportunity to bond.

2. HOAs protect and boost property values. The main goal of HOAs is to protect the value of each individual homeowner’s property, through establishing rules and regulations and setting standards regarding the community aesthetic. In addition, HOAs ensure that maintenance of the neighborhood is up to par, as well as each individual homeowner’s house and lawn. Maintaining the community as a whole ensures that everyone’s property retains its value.

3. The amenities. HOAs provide and maintain amenities and important services, such as security. In addition, recreational facilities fall under the HOA’s responsibilities, including a clubhouse, gym, dog park, tennis court, gated entry, Jacuzzis and swimming pools, which are highly desired amenities among those seeking Palm Springs homes for sale.

image: counsilmanhunsaker.com 

 

Top 3 Buying Mistakes

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home buying mistakesWhether you’re selling a first home, buying your dream home or getting into the international real estate market for investment purposes, there are some common mistakes to avoid if you want to execute a transaction that makes financial sense.

Unrealistic expectations. Let’s say you find the La Quinta ranch you’ve been dreaming of and you qualify for a loan—does that really mean that you can afford it? Don’t make the decision to buy real estate just because a lender pre-qualifies you. Do the numbers and determine if you can truly afford all the associated costs, from closing costs and homeowners insurance to upgrades and HOA fees, if applicable. Then create a budget that truly reflects all of your bills and leaves room for a contingency fund and the amortization of a new home. Only then will you be able to determine if you can actually afford the property.

Want vs. Need. Let’s be real—there can be a huge discrepancy between what you need and what your dream home costs. Make a list of all your family’s needs and then look for a house that fulfills them. Give your agent or realtor a copy of the list. The same goes even if you’re investing in the international real estate market—even if you don’t plan on living on the property, you will have certain needs in regards to budget, maintenance and location.

Only visiting once. If you’re ready to spend your hard-earned money on a La Quinta ranch, don’t just visit once. You should schedule several visits to the home before you make an offer, and get professional opinions, if necessary. Buying real estate and living is similar to a relationship—and you wouldn’t get married after just one date. You’ll want to get a good feel for the community, the school system, the commute and anything else that is important to your lifestyle.

image: blog.supermedia.com 

4th of July weekend in Palm Springs Valley

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4th of July weekend in Palm DesertHopefully, you had an amazing 4th of July weekend in Palm Springs Valley. Lucky for you, the weekend has only just begun—whether you’re a tourist from abroad, a resident of Indian Wells or own Indio real estate, there is lots of fun to be had with family, friends or even if you’re on a solo mission to escape.

From July 4 through July 6, the fashion line DELLA presents A Weekend at The Saguaro, a memorable pool party with live music, BBQ by Iron Chef Jose Garces, unique performances such as synchronized swimming, and of course, fireworks. The Saguaro is located at 1800 E. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. This free event takes place each day from noon to 8 pm. For more information, call 760.323.1711.

On Friday, July 5, Crystal Fantasy in downtown Palm Springs will host First Friday Art Walk, a favorite of everyone from visitors and residents to owners of nearby equestrian properties and Indio real estate.  The event will feature artwork from Dirk Yates, Jo Blaine, Snake Jagger, David Hardy, Curtiss Waters II, Don David Young, Bijan Masoumpanah, Robert Cullison, Robert Kosslyn and Nina Rizzo. The Art Walk takes place from 6 to 9 pm. Crystal Fantasy is located at 268 N. Palm Canyon Drive. For more information, call 760.322.7799.

On Saturday, July 6 KC & The Sunshine Band will perform a live concert at the Fantasy Springs Casino from 8 to 10 pm. KC & The Sunshine Band shot to fame in the 1970s with huge disco and funk hits like That’s the Way (I Like It), Shake Your Booty and Get Down Tonight. The show will be an unforgettable blast from the past!

On Sunday, July 7 the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Shelley Fisher in The Hebrew Hillbilly. The original show takes place at the Arthur Newman Theatre from 2 to 4 pm, and features14 original songs co-written by renowned songwriter Ken Hirsch, who will accompany Shelley on piano.

image: PalmSpringsLife.com

4th of July in Palm Springs

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Palm Springs comes alive on Independence Day, as people of all ages come out to celebrate and enjoy the wide-ranging festivities that the desert cities have to offer. It’s a great time to visit and experience the community, especially if you’re looking at Rancho Mirage homes for sale and are interested in checking out the Coachella Valley during the summer.

On Wednesday, July 3 the Backstreet Art District presents its “First Wednesday” Art Walk at Images by Gideon Fine Art Gallery. Experience fine art, meet the artists, see working studios and enjoy refreshments at this vibrant event. First Wednesday takes place from 6 to 9 pm. Images by Gideon Fine Art Gallery is located at 2682 South Cherokee Way in Palm Springs. For more information, call 760.250.1521.

On Thursday, July 4, a spectacular Independence Day Celebration takes place at the amazing Palm Desert Civic Center Park from 7:15 pm to 9:30 pm. A brilliant 20 minute fireworks display will be accompanied by synchronized music on The Mix 100.5 FM starting at 9 pm. In addition, there will be live music from the Swing Cats Band and other activities. It’s the ideal time to check out the Civic Center Park, which is one of the pride and joys of residents and owners of homes in Palm Desert. For more information, call 760.346.0611.

Also on the 4th, there will be a dazzling Independence Day Celebration benefitting the AIDS Assistance Program at the legendary O’Donnell House. The evening includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and fireworks. The event starts at 7:30 pm and fireworks begin at 9:15 pm. Tickets are $100 per person and advance purchase is required. Contact 760.325.8481 or purchase tickets online at www.aidsassistance.org.

There will also be a Fourth of July Parade and Community Celebration at La Quinta Park, located at 77865 Avenida Montezuma. The 4th of July parade begins at 4:30 pm followed by a chili cook-off, beer garden and other food and entertainment in the Laguna Park off of Avenida Montezuma. The evening will end with a spectacular and unforgettable fireworks display! If you’re interested in La Quinta properties or nearby Rancho Mirage homes for sale, this is a great opportunity to witness these communities in their full glory.

If the weekend inspires you, click here to view listings of homes in Palm Desert and the rest of Coachella Valley.

image: ohanafun.net

Buying your first home?

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Palm Springs homes for saleAs many of us already know, buying your first home can be a complex and stressful process, whether you’re buying a beach condo, cabin in the mountains, or Indian Wells real estate. While it can definitely be intimidating, if you arm yourself with the right information, the entire process will become much easier, from negotiating prices to obtaining a mortgage. Before you start looking at Palm Springs homes for sale, gather as much information as possible, because when it comes to buying real estate, the old adage is true, knowledge is power.

Many first-time homebuyers find themselves in over their heads when it comes to securing a quality mortgage loan. Rather than focusing on the interest rate, make sure you’re paying attention to the actual cost of the loan, at present and what it will be in the future. Often times, it makes the most sense to have an attorney review the paperwork for you. Either way, make sure that you read the paperwork and all its fine print. If the interest rate is below market rates, make sure to inspect the contracts thoroughly—chances are that rate may only be guaranteed for a certain amount of time. No matter what, be certain that you are clear on what your responsibilities and rights are before signing anything.

When it comes to buying property, all homebuyers have their own unique situation and set of circumstances that the lender should take into consideration. Perhaps you only want to live in your new house for a few years, and then plan to take another step up. If so, a variable rate mortgage may be your best bet. Or maybe you’re looking at Palm Springs homes for sale purely for investment purposes, or you plan to live there for 20 years—if this is the case, then the stable monthly payment that a fixed rate mortgage provides may be the right choice for you. The bottom line—get all the information you can, so you can do what’s best for your situation.

Click here to browse listings of Indian Well real estate and the surrounding areas.

image: warner.senate.gov

Real Estate Photography—Part 3

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If you’ve been following our real estate photography series, you are probably ready to start shooting your home in Palm Desert so you can create an amazing, eye-catching listing and put your property on the market. However, keep in mind there are many ways to improve your photos so that your listing stands out among the rest and highlights your home’s best features. Mastering the principles below will enhance your photography skills and provide the best results possible, whether you’re taking photos of sprawling equestrian homes, luxury properties on a golf course or a downtown loft.

Create an even lighting scheme. You’ll want to create even light schemes in every room so there are no areas that are too dark or too bright.  Adjust whatever you can, such as lamps, lighting and your flash. The camera captures a narrow range from dark to light, so rooms that are evenly lit will display greater detail in each photograph.

Avoid fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lighting is difficult to work with, especially when you’re a beginning photographer. Even the most gorgeous home in Palm Desert can appear an ugly shade of green in photos that are lit with fluorescent lighting. Mixing fluorescent with natural light or regular light bulbs can be tricky as well, so avoid it as much as possible.

Embrace overcast skies. While it may not seem optimal, overcast skies can actually be superb for shooting both interiors and exterior real estate shots. From inside of a home, the windows will look just the right shade of bright. When shooting outside, you don’t have to worry so much about where the sun is or making sure that it’s behind you, nor will you be limited to shooting at certain times of day.

Click here to see some great examples of photos taken for listings of equestrian homes.

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78100 Main St #202, La Quinta, CA 92253

Contact Kim

Call Kimberley at
760-285-3578
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