If you’re looking for an extraordinary golf event mixed with world class entertainment and other exciting activities, then you’ll want to attend one of the most fan-friendly celebrity golf tournaments in the country: The Frank Sinatra Celebrity Invitational. If you’ve been planning a special trip to Palm Springs to look at Palm Desert real estate or equestrian properties in Rancho Mirage, this is the perfect week to do so and enjoy yourself while you’re at it!
From February 21-23, the Eagle Falls Golf Course will host this incredible celebrity-amateur tournament. In addition to the stellar opportunity to watch some great golf, The Frank Sinatra Celebrity Invitational includes a luncheon, an elegant fashion show featuring Fe Zandi’s couture designs, a charity auction and three nights of parties, with the incredible Frankie Valli headlining the renowned Black Tie Gala. In the past, the event was attended and supported by a wide range of entertainers and professional athletes including Tommy Lasorda, Robert Wagner, Dick Van Dyke, Shirley MacLaine, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. As you can see, there’s good reason the event is nicknamed “Frank’s Little Party in the Desert.”
Dedicated to the memory of Frank Sinatra, the tournament was founded in 1988 to raise funds for Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center at Eisenhower Medical Center. The mission of the center, which opened in 1986, is to provide counseling for young victims of abuse and to focus on prevention, community education and breaking the generational cycle of abuse. What’s so wonderful about this organization is that no child is ever turned away due to their family’s inability to pay.
The tournament is presented by Starkey Hearing Technologies and hosted by the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio. One of golf’s most famous legends and one of Frank Sinatra’s best friends, Ken Venturi, is co-hosting the event with Barbara Sinatra. If you’re in the mood to spend the weekend in Palm Springs or want to take a break from searching for Palm Desert real estate or equestrian properties in the area, then this is the perfect event for you.
image: franksinatragolf.org
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If you’re a horse lover or a lucky owner of equestrian homes, then you’re probably already a fan of Horse Shows in the Sun (HITS) Thermal Desert Circuit Show. This six week circuit runs annually from January – March, and is a mainstay of West Coast competition. In its 21st year, the show takes place at the HITS Desert Horse Park in Thermal, California, which is just minutes away from Palm Desert and the other desert cities. HITS is the winter show home to some of the best and most accomplished equestrian riders in the world, such as United States Olympic Gold Medalist Will Simpson and Canadian Olympian Jill Henselwood.
HITS offers an amazing opportunity to watch as riders and their horses jump, leap and gallop in a thrilling circuit of events that are judged on style, grace, presentation and appearance. During this six-week event, more than 3000 horses, 10,000 riders and nearly 30,000 spectators are expected to attend. Equestrians and their fans will visit from all over the world—and many will take the time to browse luxury homes in Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert and other areas of the posh desert communities.
HITS takes place this year from January 22-March 17.There is no better opportunity to watch world-class thoroughbreds and champion equestrians compete in 16 Grand prix events. In addition, there is cool shopping, great food, fun music and other unique activities that are perfect for the entire family. It’s a great way to unwind after looking at equestrian homes and other luxury homes in Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert and La Quinta.
Admission to HITS Thermal is free from Tuesday through Saturday and $5 per person on Sunday entry. Children under 12 are permitted to enter free of charge. The event takes place Tuesday through Sunday from 8 am to 4 pm. For more information, visit hitsshows.com.
image: militarystables.com
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Just when you thought there was nothing going on this weekend, one look at what the communities of Palm Springs have going on and suddenly it’s hard to choose what to do. There are more than enough options for everyone—and if you’re considering purchasing equestrian homes in Rancho Mirage or are interested in Palm Desert real estate, you’ll soon see that it’s like this all year round.
On Saturday, February 9 the Tour de Palm Springs will take place! This amazing event raises money for nonprofit organizations in the Palm Springs Valley, while allowing participants to experience a bicycle ride on several different courses as they take in breathtaking mountain scenery and bond with fellow riders. The courses are wide-ranging, from a one mile route that is perfect for beginners and a five mile route that’s easy but includes small hills, to a 25 mile moderate ride with a few rolling hills, and 55 mile and 100 mile routes with many rolling hills and gradual climbs for the more advanced cyclist.
Also on Saturday is the Dr. George Car Show in Indian Wells. Celebrity judges assess the goods at this expo that features 1000 cars, music, food and other vendors. The event is sponsored by the Auto Club Southern California and suggested donation for entry is just $2.
On Saturday night, world-famous violinist and conductor Itzhak Perlman will enchant classical music fans with a special performance at the McCallum Theatre, a favorite of all residents and owners of Palm Desert real estate. Perlman will be accompanied by renowned pianist Rohan De Silva. The show starts at 8 pm.
On Sunday, February 10, the Palm Springs Half Marathon will wind through some of the most famous neighborhoods in Palm Springs. On Sunday evening at 7 pm, the McCallum Theatre will host one of the most famous operas of all time, Puccini’s Madame Butterfly. The show starts at 7 pm. For more information, visit mccallumtheatre.com.
As you can see, there is never a dull moment in the Palm Springs Valley. If you’re considering equestrian homes or other properties in any of the desert cities, you’ll discover a lifestyle that’s filled with options to enjoy life to the fullest.
image: tourdepalmsprings.com
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It almost feels like summer already, and we’re not just talking about the weather. There are so many cultural events and recreational activities that take place in the Coachella Valley, it seems like we’re on vacation all year long. Whether you own Indian Wells real estate, a home in La Quinta or one of the beautiful equestrian properties in Rancho Mirage, you’ve got front row access to something cool to do every week of the year. Vacationers, retirees, families, couples and singles will all find something up their alley almost any day of the week.
This evening, you can catch the Russian National Ballet’s adaptation of Cinderella at the McCallum Theatre, performed to the pre-recorded yet enchanting sounds of one of the major composers of the 20th Century, Sergei Prokofiev. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience a mesmerizing performance of this classic with the entire family.
Located in Palm Desert, the McCallum Theatre is a favorite among owners of Indian Wells real estate and all areas throughout Palm Springs. The state-of-the-art performing arts center is also running Rain—The Beatles Experience this Tuesday, February 5 through Thursday, Feb 7. Performed by RAIN, this Broadway show features the entire gamut of The Beatles’ discography—even some complex songs that were recorded by the Beatles in studio, but never performed live! After watching performances of everything from Hey Jude, Hard Day’s Night, I Want To Hold Your Hand, Let It Be, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Come Together, among many others. You’ll definitely be waxing nostalgic at this adoring tribute! For more information and to buy tickets, call 866.889. ARTS.
Even if you’re browsing homes in Indio, searching for equestrian properties in Rancho Mirage or just preparing to become a resident of the desert communities, there’s always something to do or be entertained with in the Coachella Valley.
image: Marilyn Chung, The Desert Sun
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Beautiful Smoke Tree Ranch
Owning equestrian homes can require a lot of maintenance and upkeep. Whether you’re looking to increase resale value, make it profitable or simply maintain your property at an optimum level, there a few important strategies to keep in mind.
Special attention should be paid to any grass or pastures that your horses or any other animals may graze on. Make sure that there are no weeds, as they can be poisonous to the horses. Also, try to move the horses around regularly so that they don’t graze on the same area all the time—you always want to allow for areas that are freshly grazed to be left alone for awhile so that there is time for fresh grass to grow.
When it comes to equestrian homes, the fence is also a critical element to pay attention to. It not only keeps your horses from straying, it marks your property’s boundaries. If your fences are wood, regularly check to make sure there is no rotting and that no nails are protruding. If you have fences made of vinyl, always check for cracks, which can quickly become holes when unattended to.
Luckily, in the desert community, we don’t get a lot of rainfall. However, you’ll want to make sure that your plot of land has proper drainage so that the horses’ hooves are never exposed to mud.
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Every year, people make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight and get in shape. In fact, studies show that weight loss is the most popular resolution among Americans. However, that same research indicates that less than 10 percent stick to those resolutions every year. The good news is, if you own a home in Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage real estate or one of the beautiful equestrian properties in La Quinta, you’ve got a head start on the rest of the population.
If your goal for the New Year is to shed pounds, tone up and improve your fitness, you’ve got a multitude of options in Palm Springs Valley that can make it easy for you to burn extra calories and incorporate physical activity every single day. The array is so wide-ranging, you’ll never get bored and will always be able to switch it up if you do.
A perfect example for owners of Rancho Mirage real estate and all of the other desert communities is, of course, golf and tennis. There are award-winning golf course and tennis courts that aren’t just for the professionals. You can improve your game and burn calories by incorporating golf or tennis games every week. If you don’t know how to play, there are plenty of lessons and coaching available at the myriad resorts and clubs.
Another outdoor activity that will boost your calorie burn and can be accessed without limits in Palm Springs Valley is hiking. Whether you own property in La Quinta, Indio or Palm Springs, you’re close to an abundance of hiking trails that yield stunning views of the majestic mountain ranges. You can find trails for any level of ability, from beginners to advanced. Plus, Joshua Tree National Park is in close proximity and can offer an unforgettable experience for both hikers and climbers.
Like horses? You may want to consider buying one of the gorgeous equestrian properties that can be found throughout the region, including La Quinta, Indian Wells and beyond.
If you’re more of an indoors enthusiast, you still have quite a few options at your fingertips. There are many fitness centers, studios for Yoga and Pilates classes, group workout facilities and spas where you can increase that calorie burn to your heart’s content.
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It’s easy to understand the appeal of Rancho Mirage real estate, but did you know it’s also a haven for equestrian homes? This beautiful desert community is more than just an ideal location for golfers, tennis players and swimmers to live—horse lovers can find their dream home here too.
Clancy Lane is an exclusive, one-of-a-kind area located on a beautiful, tree-lined street just off of Bob Hope Drive. The area features several gated communities with large, million dollar estate homes on lots with a variety of zoning. Stunning views of the mountains coupled with myriad outdoor recreational opportunities make it perfect for everyone from retirees to families with young children—and, of course, horse lovers. The vibrant arts culture and 12 impeccably manicured golf courses are just a few of the amenities that can be found in gorgeous Rancho Mirage.
The unique luxury estates on Clancy Lane feature wide-ranging sizes and diverse architectural styles. Many are built on oversized lots, many of which are zoned for keeping horses. There are other options available as well: many owners of Rancho Mirage real estate properties board horses at Clancy Lane Riding Stables, where they are often eligible to receive residential discounts.
In addition to being a great location for equestrian homes, Clancy Lane is in close proximity to the upscale shops on El Paseo and The River Shopping Center, and is only a short drive to the other desert communities. The Palm Springs airport and the Eisenhower Medical Center are also easily accessible from this area.
Also nearby, adjacent to Clancy Lane Riding Stables, is another exclusive gated community—Mission Ranch. This sophisticated, upscale area features high-end amenities and homes built in stunning range of architectural styles, from Contemporary Mediterranean and Tuscan to Ranch. With so many options available, it makes sense why Rancho Mirage is considered one of the premier places to live.
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You’ve reached the last stage of preparing your property for sale—maximizing curb appeal. Whether you’re preparing Palm Springs homes for sale, equestrian homes or a vacation home for viewing, if the buyer doesn’t like the exterior, you won’t get them inside.
So last but not least, it’s time to maximize the curb appeal of your property. This is probably the most important aspect of preparing a house for sale, so take as much time as necessary to make upgrades and then set a schedule for regular maintenance.
Start by assessing any flaws in the exterior. Look for and replace any loose or damaged roof shingles, siding and caulking. Inspect for peeling paint and touch it up if possible. If you have an asphalt driveway, consider re-sealing it. If there is a chimney, get it cleaned. Make sure the gutters are aligned and clean. If you are preparing a property with more than one building, such as equestrian homes or a property with a guest house, do the same for their exteriors.
Make sure the house looks welcoming. A welcome mat on the doorstep and potted flowers can go a long way. Research shows that the color yellow evokes a buying emotion, so go for marigolds, yellow dahlias or even consider planting yellow roses.
Set up a regular schedule for maintaining the lawn, hedges, trees and flowerbeds—if you’re preparing Palm Springs homes for sale, make sure any cactuses on the property look nice and are well-groomed.
Keep the garage door of your property closed, especially if you are storing boxes in there. If you are keeping items in addition to your cars inside, it will behoove you to buy some garage storage cabinets so that it looks less cluttered, in case the potential buyers ask to see inside.
One final step—apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door. This increases the welcome factor of the house and gives it a polished look.
image source: creative-curb-appeal.com
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Once you reach step 5, you’re really making headway. Now it’s time to get detail oriented—this step applies to all types of properties, from equestrian homes to townhouses.
Now that the house is free from clutter, you can assess every room in the house to see what needs repairing. This extends to the guest quarters or, for example, a pool house, which you might have if you own a home in the desert with a pool, which is common among many Palm Desert real estate properties.
Start with the walls. If any of them are dingy or stained, repaint them or do touch-ups if that will do the job. Spackle any holes from artwork you have removed and touch those up as well. Or if one of the rooms is painted in a strong color, or a limiting theme such Southwestern, a popular look for Indian Wells real estate properties and other Coachella Valley dwellings in the 90s, re-paint them in a neutral color scheme. You may love those purple walls, but it might be a turnoff to potential buyers with conservative taste. With equestrian homes, if the barn or stables have paint that’s flaking or peeling, that should touched up as well.
Check for and repair any cracks or damage to the floors, tiles, plaster and wallpaper. Even though you may be selling Palm Desert real estate, you never know where mold can grow or dampness can be found—check all areas, including the basement and attic.
If the kitchen needs sprucing up, replace cabinet knobs for a quick revamp, and make sure all the drawers open and close effortlessly. Fix leaky faucets, toilets that run, shower heads that drip and make sure there are no other plumbing issues. Replace cracked windowpanes, moldings, and other woodwork. Make sure that the heating system works throughout the house, and if you’re trying to sell an Indian Wells real estate property or somewhere else in the desert area, be certain that the air conditioning units are in great condition.
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Land and Ranches..now’s the time to List!
It just may be the BEST time to list your vacant land, farm or ranch in the Coachella Valley. Thermal, Coachella, Indio, Vista Santa Rosa..the entire East Valley is SELLING! Now, don’t get too excited..the price/acre is nowhere near where it was during the “boom”, but we haven’t seen much land move at all for the past 3 years. But things are starting to pop in our Eastern Palm Springs Valley.
The past 6 months have seen as many parcels SOLD! From small parcels, with and without wells, commercially zoned land way out next to the Kohl Ranch Project, and medium sized farms..there are buyers hovering around. Equestrian zoning is often requested, wells are fantastic, some improvements such as fencing, irrigation and perhaps barns are really increase the price/acre.
Vista Santa Rosa and Thermal land price/acre is settling at approx. $22-30,000/acre. I know that’s still a little depressing for you land owners if you were still remembering the $150-$250,000/acre that land was bringing when the developers were building and building out here! But..at least we know what it’s worth, right? Kind of similar to the low end housing market that had to keep dropping until it hit that “sweet spot” that Buyers were waiting for. Then the decrease stopped..and in fact it’s increased! I suspect our Land is doing just that now
Thinking of listing your land, ranch or equestrian property? Don’t wait too long..season is here!
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