If you’re looking at homes for sale in Palm Desert or the surrounding areas and are including condos in your search, there are a few things to consider before making a final decision. While there are many pros to buying a condo as opposed to a house, there are also some cons that may impact your decision—and what some may consider a plus, other may deem a minus. Read on for a few important elements to consider.
Convenience. Condos tend to have amenities that you would not otherwise have access to if you live in a purely residential neighborhood or buy a standalone residence. Many offers pools, fitness centers, play areas and clubhouses. Some even have tennis and basketball courts on the premises or a community park. In addition, building maintenance, landscaping and grounds keeping is typically included with your Home Owners Association (HOA) fees, which means one less thing to worry about.
Additional costs. Speaking of HOA fees—while condos are often cheaper than standalone houses and townhouses, there is an additional annual cost for enjoying all the amenities and upkeep. Often times, there are many rules and regulations in place that are enforced via fines and additional fees. While you don’t have to worry about paying for the type of building maintenance you would on a standalone home, there can sometimes be expensive renovations or maintenance projects planned by the HOA. Make sure to ask about HOA fees, carefully examine your contract and read the recent meeting minutes to make sure there aren’t any outstanding maintenance issues or upcoming projects.
Ownership. Technically, a condo is a building consisting of several apartments that are owned individually—condo owners do not have any ownership to the land that the structure is located on. On the flip side, if you are looking at standalone homes for sale in Palm Desert and find one you want to buy, you will hold the title to the land it sits on.
The social benefits. In a condominium development, you will be in close proximity to your neighbors and share access areas that afford opportunities to meet your neighbors. This can be ideal for some, but for others who appreciate more privacy, this may not be the perfect scenario.
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The Sunnylands Center and Gardens in Rancho Mirage
If you’re interested in Palm Springs real estate, now is a great time to check out the valley and the vibrant entertainment options that always take place in our sunny haven. You’ll never run out of things to do when you live in one of the beautiful desert cities. There is music, art and more, starting with the renowned Joshua Tree Music Festival that takes place from Thursday, May 15 through Sunday, May 18 in the famed Joshua Tree National Park.
On Thursday, from 7:30 to 9:30 pm, the Palm Desert Civic Center Park will feature another of its free concerts under the stars series presented by the City of Palm Desert. This week, it will be: Concerts in the Park: R Buckle Road. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy a picnic and listen to beautiful music in this amazing outdoor venue.
On Friday, May 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, the Palm Springs Art Museum continues its Free Friday Film Screenings with a showing of The Draughtsman’s Contract, directed by Peter Greenaway. At the Fantasy Springs Casino, country music singer Alan Jackson will perform from 8 to 10 pm. Over 50 of Mr. Jackson’s singles have appeared on Billboard‘s list of the Top 30 Country Songs. Also on Friday, the legendary Smokey Robinson will perform at the Morongo Casino from 9 to 11 pm. On Saturday night, The Show at Agua Caliente Casino will host the The Battle of the Badges from 6 to 8 pm. Each of these venues are must-sees for anyone who is interested in Palm Springs real estate, as they each host a bevy of performances and concerts from talented, world-class entertainers.
On Sunday, May 18, Hands-On Art: Family Day at Sunnylands will take place from 9:30 am to 2 pm at the Sunnylands Center and Gardens. Families have the chance to get creative together with Sculpture Taking Shape: Cast, Carve, Combine. A free slate of activities will be in full swing, including games, arts and crafts, games, walks and talks.
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The Joshua Tree Music Festival
The 12th annual Joshua Tree Music Festival (JTMF) will be in full effect from Thursday, May 15 through Sunday, May 18. It’s the perfect time for music lovers, fans of the great outdoors and those in town to look at international real estate opportunities to visit the Coachella Valley.
The JTMF is a family-friendly event featuring live music in a multi-day campout environment that takes advantage of the magical natural setting of the world famous Joshua Tree National Park. One festival takes place in the Spring and another in the Fall; The Spring festival features an eclectic lineup including dance-world-electro-funk’n groove, while the fall event features different genres of music.
The Spring festival lineup is sure to entertain those of all ages, from locals and those who own vacation homes in the area to tourists and those in town to look at international real estate opportunities. Musicians performing include Nahko & Medicine for the People from Portland, The Revivalists from New Orleans, Kraak & Smaak from the Netherlands, Future Rock from Chicago, Miguel Migs from San Francisco, La Santa Cecilian of Los Angeles, Fly Moon Royalty from Seattle, Oumar Konate of Mali, The Magic Beans from Colorado, Ian Winters of Santa Cruz, Colin Curtin of Oakland and Joshua Tree’s own Third Ear Experience, among many other musical talents.
In addition, there is a bevy of children’s activities that take place at the JTMF, as well as Camp Family, a special area for families that prefer a quieter setting after hours. There are yoga classes taught and healings performed throughout the event, incredible art installations, an astronomy theater in the corner of the festival’s lake area and a “Positive Vibration Station.”
Located in the high desert of the Mojave, Joshua Tree is only 50 minutes from Palm Springs, two and a half hours from Los Angeles, three from San Diego and three and a half hours away from Las Vegas.
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So much is happening this weekend—it’s an excellent time to visit or look for Palm Springs homes for sale, while still enjoying yourself on your downtime. Check out what the desert cities have in store to kick off of the weekend.
On Thursday, May 8 from 7:30 to 9 pm, Concerts in the Park: Britain’s Finest will take place at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park Amphitheater, a popular spot for live music under the stars every May. This free concert features a Beatles tribute band, Britain’s Finest. Sponsored by the City of Palm Desert, this event is a great opportunity for those looking to move to the area and hunting for Palm Springs homes for sale to check out this gorgeous, family-friendly park.
The Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival starts Thursday and runs through Sunday, May 11 at the Camelot Theatres. This unique festival sets itself apart from others by screening an eclectic array of landmark and obscure vintage movies from the classic film noir era. The event was founded by the late Arthur Lyons, who was a mystery author and community leader in Palm Springs. Each year, the festival showcases the best of film noir along with appearances from many of the movie stars and filmmakers at Q&A discussions, autographs and book signings after the film screenings. The festival opens with a screening of The Window, and a special appearance by actress Barbara Hale.
On Friday, May 9, the McCallum Theatre will host the Coachella Valley Symphony’s season finale: The Best of CVS. The event will be headlined by local physician and soprano Dr. Lisa Lindley with selections from the opera and pop genres, as well as performances of Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait and Gershwin’s An American in Paris. The concert will be followed by a grand VIP reception and auction.
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Horse property in Bermuda Dunes
When my clients, the buyers of this lovely estate, asked me to find them a home with several acres, near the center of the City, and not too far from the Polo Fields, I had to scour the East Valley. But..we got in to see this amazing property at 42605 Byron Pl, Bermuda Dunes, BEFORE it came on the market! We wrote immediately and 10 days later, my Seattle, Washington clients are working their magic on their new home.
If you are thinking of buying a home in the Palm Springs Valley, it really helps to have a detailed list of your “must-haves” We all come prepared to buy with a Wish List, but educated Buyers also know that they are going to have to compromise, (unless your budget is virtually unlimited!) The most important things to really be clear about..
1. Location. Which City in the Palm Springs Valley are you focused on?
2. Budget: Stick to it! Don’t out house yourself.
3. Bedroom count.
4. Gated or non-gated? Her in our Valley, this is a biggee as you don’t want to forget to budget in your HOA dues.
5. What do you like to do? Golf, Equestrian, Tennis, hiking, theatre, art, museums? Think about it.
Style of home, colors, layout..these can be altered, but LOCATION cannot.
If you’re looking to buy a home in the Palm Springs Valley, give me a call at 760-285-3578.
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Many market analysts advise that if you didn’t buy real estate in 2013, you shouldn’t wait much longer or you may just be kicking yourself. Whether you’re interested in Rancho Mirage real estate or the luxury international real estate market, 2014 is most likely the year to buy. According to Standard & Poor’s/Case-Shiller 20-city home price index dated December 31, during the last 12 month period, on average, real estate prices in the housing market climbed more than 13.5 percent,
It makes sense that industry experts are advising buyers to make their move this year. Not only do 2013 numbers reflect the trend toward a seller’s market, market forecasts predict that this year will show gains for the real estate market again. While the fast pace of sales seems to slow down a bit in the fourth quarter, it doesn’t mean it’s time to slow down your house hunting activities and search for Rancho Mirage real estate, especially if you’re serious.
Several analysts forecasted that prices on homes will rise approximately five percent during 2014. We’re also starting to see mortgage rates rise, which may slow down the pace of sales a bit, though not entirely. On a 30-year mortgage, the rates are expected to rise to five percent by the end of 2014—they are currently at 4.5 percent. For most, that climb is not enough to outweigh the benefits of ownership, such as building equity and significant tax benefits, especially for first time buyers,
Whether you’re buying a first home, looking for a vacation home in a resort area or thinking about investing in luxury international real estate, if you want to get the most bang for your buck and be in the best possible situation to negotiate, start your search and get your financial horse in order now. It’s the perfect New Year’s resolution.
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A neighborhood that stands out among the rest is The Mesa in Palm Springs. It’s a community you don’t want to miss if you’re on the hunt for Palm Springs homes for sale. A rich history combined with a secluded location provides an exclusive setting to enjoy the best lifestyle available. With homes from Mid-Century Modern and Contemporary to Spanish and Mediterranean, The Mesa provides something for everyone in the market for a new home in an exclusive, upscale community.
The Mesa was founded by Edmond Fulford, a successful businessman from Los Angeles with a vision of building an exclusive community of luxury properties in a secluded area of Palm Springs that was unique and protected from the desert winds. He discovered the perfect place on the lowest hills of the San Jacinto Mountains and established The Mesa in Palm Springs there.
Located on the east flank of the rugged yet stunning Tahquitz Canyon, The Mesa is ideal for those searching for Palm Springs homes for sale situated in an region of vast natural beauty. The rolling hills, winding roads and rich Indian folklore give the area an authentic mystique that is unparalleled. The homes in The Mesa represent a broad range of eclectic and innovative architectural styles that result in a diverse and beautiful neighborhood. The friendly residents form a close-knit community, with wide-ranging occupations and interests that make it a vibrant and dynamic place to live. People ride their bikes and walk throughout the community, to run errands or simply to enjoy the lovely weather and awe-inspiring setting. In addition, located in the foothills of The Mesa is the Moorten Botanical Garden, a remarkable oasis of native plants.
Click here if you are interested in viewing listings of luxury properties in Palm Springs, including The Mesa in Palm Springs.
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La Quinta Hotel & Spa
When people think of the Palm Springs Valley, or Palm Springs in general, they have this idea that there is just one city… Palm Springs. The city of Palm Springs is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a more westerly city to buy your seasonal property in, or if you’re looking to be within walking distance of some of the most fashionable and hip hotels, restaurants, and boutiques.
When I first speak to people that are interested in purchasing a property in Palm Springs, Canadians especially, I generally have to educate them about the scope of the entire Palm Springs Valley. Each city is unique in its location , it’s amenities, demographics , and general “vibe.” Our more central cities of Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Indian Wells, are very appealing to people that want to be in the middle of the mix in the Valley. There’s a whole tribe of buyers ever, that find the more open spaces of our Eastern Valley right on target . These buyers are often surprised to find just how much La Quinta has to offer .
The city of La Quinta is called the “gem of the desert. It’s Western border is the city of Indian Wells, and its eastern border is the city of Indio, or Coachella. Because the land is more plentiful and open for development, it makes sense that during the boom years there was a tremendous amount of building. Of course that was followed by the crash which freed up many of these properties at ridiculously low prices/square foot. La Quinta has seen an annual appreciation over the past year of approximately 20%. Properties are quite stable in the East Valley now, inventory levels are beginning to rise , but as with most of the Valley, it has slowly become a sellers’ market . The city of La Quinta is young , very artsy, has an open, almost rural feel to it , and many of the structures are newer. The La Quinta Hotel and Spa of course, is what the city of La Quinta is founded on , so La Quinta to has its share of the Valley history. Old Town La Quinta, offers walkable streets with restaurants, shops and art , along with weekly farmers’ markets and entertainment. La Quinta has so much to offer on its own, and remember, it’s only a half-hour drive to the Palm Springs Airport and central Palm Springs!
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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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Whether 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.
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