There’s nothing like a little curb appeal to get a buyer interested!
Give the front door an upgrade. Making over your home’s front door is a quick way to improve the entire property’s appearance and boost its resale value. If your budget is small, try a new coat of paint, but if you can afford to invest in a new door, it will be well worth it. We recently had a client install a new front door on their Indian Wells property and experience a multitude of compliments from buyers—we’re pretty sure that simple upgrade motivated buyers to get out of their car and see what was inside.
Enhance the landscape. A nicely landscaped yard is one of the best ways to maximize curb appeal. It doesn’t have to be expensive; strive for something uncluttered and cohesive that ties together the architecture of your home and the region. For example, if you’re preparing La Quinta real estate or an Indian Wells property, you may want to pick a desert themed landscape.
Add some design features. If there are areas of the home’s exterior that need replacing or refinishing, consider adding some architectural detail that will increase the property’s flair. It could be something as simple as new window shutters, moldings, or a larger project such as adding a balcony or porch.
Give the garage a new face. In today’s real estate market, you see an array of stunning alternatives for garage doors. Don’t go with a plain white door—and if that’s what your house has, an upgrade will definitely be worth the investment. In addition, make sure the garage doesn’t look like a storage facility inside. Keep things streamlined, clean and in order. If you do need to keep some things in there, buy some garage storage cabinets so everything looks organized and is out of the way.
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The 24th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) is in full swing and major celebrities are in attendance. This spectacular event is a favorite among local owners of Palm Desert real estate and the surrounding areas for many reasons. The star-studded galas and film screenings offer something for everyone to enjoy.
Several Oscar hopefuls were presented with exciting honors at the incredible Awards Gala this weekend. The PSIFF, which commenced on January 5, officially kicked off the awards show season. Local owners of Palm Desert real estate and Indian Wells properties gave us the lowdown on some of the incredible actors who received well-deserved honors.
The cast of Argo received the award for Ensemble Performance, which was presented by former CIA agent Tony Mendez, who Ben Affleck portrayed in the movie. In attendance were cast members Alan Arkin, Bryan Cranston and Affleck, who also directed the film. Bradley Cooper accepted the Desert Palm Achievement Actor Award for his outstanding performance in Silver Linings Playbook. Naomi Watts received the Desert Palm Achievement Award for an Actress Onstage, Helen Hunt accepted the Spotlight Award and Sally Field received the Career Achievement Award. Richard Gere received the Chairman’s Award for his career accomplishments.
Other notable appearances include Helen Mirren, who was presented the International Star Award, and Ang Lee, the director of Life of Pi, who presented composer Mychael Danna with the Frederick Loewe Music Award. In addition, Tom Hanks, presented Robert Zemeckis, who directed Flight, with the Director of the Year award.
The film festival, which runs through January 14, is an exciting event to look forward to, especially to residents and owners of Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta and Indian Wells properties.
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Whether you’re thinking about a vacation or considering purchasing Indian Wells real estate, there are many reasons to visit this stunning and rejuvenating sanctuary. If you’re a fitness junkie or a sports fan, if you just need some rest and relaxation, or if you’re a fan of gorgeous desert and mountain vistas, you’ll be in heaven in this beautiful oasis.
Tennis. If you’re an avid sports aficionado, you’ll find this city more than just a respite. Indian Wells Tennis Garden, the second largest tennis stadium in the world, is home to the world famous BNP Paribas Open, as well as a number of other tournaments and special events including the USTA National Championships, the Big West Conference Championships and the World Team Tennis National Championships. Those who like to play will be thrilled with the courts and for those who are newer to the sport, instructional tennis programs are offered year round. Those who own homes in Rancho Mirage, Indio and even further away flock to this stadium to play and watch their favorite pro athletes.
Golf. The Indian Wells Golf Resort hosts more than 600 tournaments each year. The Clive Clark’s Celebrity Course and John Fought’s Players Course offer 36 holes of championship golf that has been played by some of the biggest pros in the sports, as well as former presidents, movie stars and other celebrities. In fact, these courses were ranked in the Top 20 “Best Courses You Can Play” in California by Golfweek Magazine.
Revitalization. The beautiful views of Coachella Valley are a backdrop to some of the world’s finest spas and resorts. There are plenty of luxury options to choose from, but be careful, you’ll never want to leave. If that’s the case, then it’s time to start viewing Indian Wells real estate properties or nearby homes in Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert and Indio.
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If you’re looking for something to do this week that’s off the beaten holiday track, there are plenty of unique events taking place in the Palm Springs Valley. If you’ve been spending time looking at real estate in La Quinta, Indian Wells or Rancho Mirage real estate properties take a break at one of these innovative celebrations. As you will see, there is truly something for everyone in the Coachella Valley.
If you haven’t finished your Christmas shopping, then hit Snow Days at The Shops on El Paseo this Friday, December 21 from 6 to 8 pm. Immerse yourself among the holiday carolers, local programs and horse drawn carriage rides. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of browsing Rancho Mirage real estate for that dream home—and get those last few tasks checked off your holiday to-do list.
In honor of the Mayan Calendar officially ending this Friday, there will be a Doomsday Party at the Stephen Archdeacon Gallery in the heart of the Palm Springs uptown design district from 6 to 9 pm. This one-of-a-kind gallery specializes in figurative and abstract art created by artists who live in Palm Springs and the west coast. For more information, call 760.673.7520. The gallery is located at 865 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262.
Also beginning on Friday the 21st is the annual Jewish Soulstice Weekend with LA Exodus. The event takes place at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club through December 23 and is presented by East Side Jews, The Jewish Federation, JCC Without Walls and the Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center. The weekend will include a gathering of the tribe with comedy, music, rituals, hiking, yoga and other great activities. If you’ve just spent the week viewing real estate in Indian Wells or the surrounding areas, it’s the perfect way to unwind while getting to know the community.
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The holiday events continue this week in Palm Springs Valley, with even more exciting celebrations, concerts and even some visits from Santa! If you’ve been considering purchasing a home in the area, including anything from Indian Wells real estate and properties in Rancho Mirage to Palm Springs homes for sale, this is a great time to come visit and take in the community’s rich culture and arts scene.
In addition to the renowned Holidays at the Follies and the WildLights Holiday Festival at The Living Desert that take place throughout the month, there is a wide array of other holiday events happening this week. In fact, this week is Canada Fest at the Palm Springs Convention Center, a festival that includes Canada’s best art, fashion, book signings, food, sports figures, entertainment and refreshments.
After looking at Palm Springs homes for sale, finish your day at the Palm Canyon Theater, where The Wizard of Oz is currently playing. Shows begin at 8 pm. On Tuesday, December 11, the Gift of Love series of holiday benefit concerts begins at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, featuring Palm Springs resident Barry Manilow. This five-night series runs December 12, 14, 15 and 16, and will benefit 27 locals charities, including Shelter From the Storm and The Living Desert. Last year, people from throughout the region flocked to attend this special concert, from owners of La Quinta, Indio and Indian Wells real estate to visitors all the way from Los Angeles and San Diego, helping to raise nearly half a million dollars. The McCallum Theatre is located at 73000 Fred Waring Drive in Palm Desert. To purchase tickets, call 760.340.ARTS.
On Tuesday, December 11, Santa will make a special appearance at a breakfast at the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, which is one of the pride and joys of residents and owners of Rancho Mirage real estate. Included with breakfast, there will be entertainment, as well as arts and crafts activities for kids. One seating will take place at 9 am and another at 10:30 am. Tickets are available in the Museum Gift Store. For more information, call 760.321.0602.
Also on Tuesday, December 11, residents and owners of Rancho Mirage real estate and the other desert cities can experience the ever unique Chanukah Wonderland, an annual event at the Children’s Discovery Museum’s presented by the Chabad of Rancho Mirage. Open to anyone in the community, this event has a different theme each year, and this year’s is “Inflatable.” In addition to an incredible Balloon Menorah, there will be an olive press demonstration, story hour, Chanukah food treats, arts, crafts, Jewish music and a Grand Dreidel competition. The exciting Grand Lighting of the Menorah will take place at 4:45 pm.
On Thursday, December 13, the Walk of the Inns will take place, and on Friday, December 15 from 5 to 7 pm, choirs from high schools throughout the Inland Empire will sing Christmas carols at the Mountain Station at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
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One of the favorite annual events for the lucky owners of Palm Desert and Indian Wells real estate is the WildLights Festival at The Living Desert, sponsored by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. It’s one of the most festive and exciting events in the region, and offers entertainment for all ages.
Imagine 750,000 bulbs glowing and sparkling amidst a beautiful desert setting—it is the epitome of holiday magic. While the Coachella Valley may not see snowfall, there’s nothing like witnessing this park transformed into a glowing wonderland of lit up succulents, cactus and other desert fauna and flora. Now in its 20th season, the incredible WildLights Festival is presented by the City of Indian Wells and runs from 6 to 9pm on select nights through December 31.
This unique holiday festival includes live music, games, Santa’s Corner, Prancer’s Playland, camel rides, Wildlife Wonder Shows, a carousel, international food and beverage offerings, and a new Holiday Express trackless train ride in addition to the dazzling displays of three quarters of a million lights. The glistening light show coupled with the myriad of sights and entertainment provides for an unparalleled holiday experience.
You won’t want to miss this amazing celebration—owners of Palm Desert and Indian Wells real estate properties, as well as tourists and visitors alike, attend this event in droves. It’s the perfect way to spend time with family and friends while getting an authentic feel for Indian Well’s incredible community and residents.
A cactus-dotted zoo and animal park, The Living Desert is a favorite among owners of Palm Desert real estate and other residents of the region. It is located at 47900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert. Tickets are $10 for non-member adults and $8 for members, children and Military (with ID). Visit LivingDesert.org for more information about this amazing holiday celebration.
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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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The beautiful gates of Desert Horizons Country Club.
This lovely free standing Doral floor plan is truly special, and it’s location may just be one of THE premier sites at Desert Horizons Country Club. 75483 14th Green Dr., listed at $850,000, perches at the end of a cul-de-sac with that very rare vantage point of the “T” of two fairways. The Eastern, gated sideyard, features a long reflective pool, and fairway view over the 10th to the Chocolate mountains.
Once you walk through the Entry gates, under the covered porch on the beautiful East side, you REALLY see the magic of this home..the Southern backyard. A swimmer’s pool with stacked stone spa and water feature overlook the 14th Green, to sparkling lakes and to the Santa Rosa Mountains. An amazing location!
This is the original home of one of the developers of Desert Horizons CC and they chose this site specifically. The home has been slightly modified with interior door heights of 7 ft. and the exterior wall was pushed out 4 ft. or so to increase the expansive feeling of the home. Approx. 3130 sf with 3 beds/3baths + an additional Den/office with a fireplace. Enter the front door to a great room with soaring ceilings, a dual-sided fireplace, step down wet bar and formal dining area. The kitchen was remodeled in 2008, as was the floor, granite and new pool equipment was installed. This Indian Wells luxury home needs some updating, but with this location? Wow..so worth it!
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Now’s the time to replace items you want to take with you when you sell your home!
You’ve depersonalized, decluttered and rearranged—now it’s time to really get moving. Whether buyers are searching for Indian Wells real estate or equestrian homes in the Coachella Valley, there are certain things you can do to increase the appeal of your property as you prepare it for sale. Now is the time to replace and repair some of the items in your home.
If there are specific items in your home that you love or are very attached to, this is the perfect time to remove them. For example, there might be a chandelier that has sentimental value, or perhaps you really like those curtains you installed when you moved in. If that’s the case, remove them now before your house is shown to prospective buyers. The last thing you want to do is show the house with that item in it and have the buyer fall in love with it themselves! Replace those items with something that looks equally attractive, and no one will ever know the difference.
Another major component of your property that may need to be replaced in certain areas is carpeting or flooring. While you probably don’t want to make a large expenditure at this stage, if there is a room where the carpeting or the flooring is damaged beyond repair, you may want to simply replace it. Permanently stained carpeting can dissuade even the most eager buyer from purchasing your otherwise lovely Indian Wells real estate property.
If you’re selling a property that falls into a unique category, such as equestrian homes, assess specific areas with the same mindset. If there is something in particular in the barn or stables that you can’t live without, remove it and replace it before anyone sees the property.
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Indian Wells has so many resident amenities!
Indian Wells Country Club, located in the center of our Palm Springs Valley, is one of our more established country clubs. The entry is right off of 111, HOA’s are low, and there are several gated and non-gated areas within the country club that feature special amenities and architectural styles..such as Manitou Springs.
What they say
“There’s a warm feeling here,” said Dick Hedwall, 81.
Hedwall has lived in the neighborhood for 18 years. Prior to that he was a part-time Rancho Mirage resident.
“We were originally looking in the same area as our old home, but this area immediately became a desirable spot for us,” Hedwall said of Manitou Springs.
The community is self-contained, quiet and very friendly, and the beauty of the night lit mountains is hard to imagine until you’ve seen them! Gorgeous!
Features
The community is small and not gated. There are no homeowner’s association amenities, but the homes have private pools.
As with all Indian Wells residents, Manitou Springs residents receive discounts at city golf courses, resorts and reduced ticket prices for the Living Desert and the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.
Residents also have access to the fitness center at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa.
Background
Development of homes in the neighborhood began in the 1960s.
There has been consistent new construction and remodeling of existing homes since.
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