Is one of your New Year’s Resolutions to buy a new home in 2014? If so, before you start looking at Palm Desert real estate, you should probably plan your budget and start saving up for a down payment.
Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in La Quinta, condominiums in San Diego or a beach cottage in Santa Barbara, your first step is to start saving. First-time buyers are notoriously anxious about the down payment they need to raise for their initial real estate investment. While lenders typically have different rates and provide varying information, a traditional mortgage typically requires around 20 percent of the purchase price. Keep in mind that the greater the down payment, the better your interest rates will be.
Before you start looking for homes for sale in La Quinta, your first step should be assessing the resources at your fingertips and finding ways to increase them. Since you’ll already be taking out a mortgage, you probably don’t want to take another loan out to fund the down payment. This may be a time when you cash out those certificates of deposits you’ve been hanging onto or sell your mutual funds. Another option that many take advantage of is borrowing against 401k investment funds. Start meeting with your finance manager now to determine which options are best for you and your family.
If you are going to spend a substantial period of time saving up, be certain that you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Deposit your funds are in a high yield account—look for the highest APY possible that matches the amount of flexibility you can live with.
Whatever you do, make sure to educate yourself on the best ways to invest your money and how to best make this significant and sometimes overwhelming purchase.
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The holiday festivities continue this week in the Palm Springs Valley. There is a bevy of activities for the whole family to enjoy, whether you’re a local or in town to look at Palm Desert real estate or homes for sale in La Quinta. This week’s lineup offers the perfect way to get in the holiday mood and enjoy time with your loved ones.
On Tuesday, December 17, Dance for Life 2013 will take place at the Annenberg Theater. In its third year in the Coachella Valley, this performance showcase by acclaimed dance companies raises funds and awareness for the AIDS Assistance Program. The performance takes place from 6 to 8 pm.
Also on Tuesday, the McCallum Theatre will host a concert featuring country legend Willie Nelson from 8 to 10 pm. On Wednesday, December 18 from 7 to 9 pm, the McCallum Theatre will host a performance of Tchaikovsky’s classic, The Nutcracker, performed by “The Ballet Star Factory.” Located at 73000 Fred Waring Drive, the McCallum Theatre is a favorite among owners of Palm Desert real estate and those living in the other desert cities.
Also on Wednesday, there will be a performance by the California Desert Chorale, Handel-ing the Holidays, from 7 to 9 pm. The concert takes place at the Indian Wells Theater at CSUSB, Palm Desert. The Chorale is comprised of both professional and amateur singers who perform a broad range of choral and other vocal musical performances designed to entertain, educate, and enrich the audiences in the desert cities.
On Thursday, December 19 from 8 to 10 pm, A Peter White Christmas will take place at the McCallum Theatre. In this performance, renowned jazz musician Peter White performs holiday classics with an all-star lineup including Rick Braun and Mindi Abair.
Click here to view some of our incredible listings of homes for sale in La Quinta or one of the other desert cities.
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This weekend is packed with festivities to celebrate the holidays, the arts and living in Palm Springs. If you’re in town for the weekend, you’re going to have such a good time you’ll probably want to start looking for La Quinta real estate or homes for sale in Indian Wells or one of the other desert cities.
The Desert Arts Festival will take place this weekend at the Frances Stevens Park. This one-of-a-kind art fair stands out from the rest by bringing a diverse and innovative offering of fine works of art, in styles ranging from modern and contemporary to traditional and Southwestern, and mediums including everything from watercolors, oils and photography to acrylics, collages and mixed media. This show perfectly exemplifies the vibrant arts community that is one of the factors that draws so many to consider La Quinta real estate.
On Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15, the McCallum Theatre will host Someday at Christmas with Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack, which is receiving rave reviews from critics. The show features Rat Pack tunes and Christmas classic in a fun holiday show.
On Saturday from 10 to 1pm, Playtime With Santa will take place at The Gardens on El Paseo, which will include music and photos with Santa. Proceeds will benefit Big Brothers, Big Sisters of the Desert. In addition, at 1 pm, the Palm Springs Air Museum Santa Fly-In will be in effect, with Santa arriving on the Museum ramp with a bag full of goodies. Also on Saturday, there will be a Guided Public Art Tour from 10 to 11 am at the Palm Desert Public Library.
On Saturday from 8 to 10 pm, the Annenberg Theater will host Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Helen Reddy in her show, Helen Reddy Home for the Holidays. Ms. Reddy’s tour has been sold out to enthusiastic audiences all over the country.
If events like these make you want to become a part of the Palm Springs community, click here to view listings of homes for sale in Indian Wells and some of the other desert cities.
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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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This 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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La Quinta real estate is always in demand—and especially resort properties with access to some of the most extraordinary golf clubs in the world, such as The Citrus Club at La Quinta Resort. A fusion of modern and classic, this exclusive club features an association with the legendary La Quinta resort that enables members to enjoy a wide range of privileges, from discounts on spa and salon services and golf and tennis apparel to preferred pricing on guest rooms and dining.
Members of The Citrus Club get to enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of an upscale club experience in one of the most amazing settings in the world. The added benefits members get from their membership translate to a luxurious, recreational lifestyle that is what motivates many to look for Palm Springs homes for sale in the first place. All year round, members can enjoy an incredible slate of social, golf, tennis, spa and fitness activities. A two-lane pool, a fully equipped fitness center with personal training and classes available, and the stunning View Bar make it easy to do everything from unwind to improve health and overall wellness. In addition, the Club’s dining room and patio provide fine dining in a relaxing, picturesque setting.
People all over the world search for Palm Springs homes for sale because of the stellar golf options throughout the region. Designed by Peter Dye, the renowned Citrus Course puts this club in a league of its own. Surrounded by fragrant groves of citrus trees, this Audubon-certified golf course provides environmentally friendly play for golfers of every skill level. In addition to access to the Citrus, members also enjoy unlimited play on the Mountain and Dunes courses. With a member cap of 700, The Citrus Club is able to manage growth and success.
The intimate community The Citrus Club creates is one owners of La Quinta real estate and other members rave about. It’s a place where every member feels like they genuinely belong.
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This weekend is a great example of the amazing, tight-knit communities that characterize the Palm Springs Valley. Every year, those who own homes in Indian Wells, La Quinta real estate and property in other parts of the region rally together to forward various causes and raise funds for important non-profit organizations and charities.
On Saturday, October 19 the Desert Aids Walk will take place at the Ruth Hardy Park to benefit the Deserts Aids Project (DAP) and several community partners working with the project to garner exposure for Get Tested Coachella Valley, a regional campaign dedicated to reducing the transmission of HIV. Registration starts at 8 am, followed by entertainment and a Health and Wellness Festival that opens at 9, as well as a rally at 9:30 am. Whether you own La Quinta real estate or are coming in from another part of Southern California, you can come run, walk or hike for this amazing cause.
Also on Saturday, October 19, the 8th Annual Desert Garden Community Day will be happening at the Henderson Community Building. Novices and avid gardeners alike will enjoy this awesome free garden tour and event that features an array of exhibits and information booths from gardening clubs, local water agencies, The Living Desert and the City of Palm Desert. There will also be workshops on garden design, water-wise gardening, proper irrigation, pruning techniques and other topics. In addition, there will be guided tours of the picturesque Eric Johnson Memorial Gardens surrounding the Henderson Community Building. The event starts at 9 am.
From 9 am on Saturday through 9 pm on Sunday, October 20, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life will be in full effect at the Palm Desert High School. This unique fundraiser is a way for the community to celebrate those lost to cancer and help combat the disease.
The sense of community that pervades the Palm Springs Valley is just one of the many benefits of living in this vibrant area. Click here if you’re ready to view homes for sale in Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage or another area of the Coachella Valley.
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The lineup this weekend continues to prove what relaxing yet dynamic place Palm Springs is. It’s an amazing area to live in, so if you’re already thinking about buying La Quinta real estate, you won’t want to wait a minute longer. If you saw yesterday’s blog post, you’ll see other great activities taking place this weekend, including a live performance of Gladys Knight and the O’Jays, among other great events. Take a look at some more fun things to do that will make you ready to start searching for Rancho Mirage homes for sale.
On Saturday, October 5 from 7 to 10 pm, Gina Carey will perform a free concert in Palm Springs to celebrate the release of her new CD, “Funk Rhythm & Soul.” Open to the public, this CD release party will also include surprise guest appearances from local desert musicians. In addition, 99.5 FM, one of the Palm Springs Valley’s most popular soul/R&B radio stations, will broadcast live from the event. The party takes place at Woody’s, located at 317 N. Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA. 92262.
Also on Saturday, stand-up comedian Daniel Tosh will perform at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino from 8 to 10 pm. Tosh is the host of the Comedy Central television show, Tosh.0. If you’re in town to look at Rancho Mirage homes for sale, this is the perfect way to unwind. The venue is located at 32-250 Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage.
On Sunday, October 6 the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Patti Gallagher and Those Fabulous Forties. Ms. Gallagher will perform some of the greatest hits from the 40s, including Gershwin’s “Summertime,” Poerter’s “So in Love” and Mercer’s “That Old Black Magic.” She will be accompanied by pianist Joyce Ellenson. The show takes place from 2 to 4 pm at the Arthur Newman Theatre. This fabulous event is a great way to wrap up a weekend of looking at La Quinta real estate.
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We’re all set for a weekend of eclectic and exciting events in the Coachella Valley. Locals, visitors and those who own La Quinta real estate can look forward to a variety of ways to spend their weekend. The wide-ranging activities are the perfect way for visitors, such as family members, tourists and those in town to look at luxury international real estate properties, to get a sampling of all Palm Springs has to offer.
Starting Friday, September 27 and continuing through the weekend, the Morongo Casino will host the Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow, a celebration of Native American culture and heritage featuring live music, dance, refreshments, shopping and more.
On Friday, September 27 at 4 pm, the 16th Annual Mayor’s Cup Golf Challenge Shotgun Start will take place at the gorgeous and exclusive La Quinta Country Club. Produced by the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce, the event features a “Nine Hole” competition with the coveted perpetual Trophy at stake. After that part of the event, there will be a “Shootout” whereby competitors are eliminated until there is one final winner. Spectators can follow the event in a golf cart and cheer for their favorites. The games will be followed by a mixer with prizes, raffles and awards. It’s an event that community members, including owners of La Quinta real estate, look forward to every year.
On Saturday, September 28 from 8 to 10 pm, Bill Maher will perform at the McCallum Theatre. Bill Maher is known for unflinching candor and hilariousness that has earned him more than 20 Emmy Award nominations.
On Sunday, September 29 from 2 to 4 pm, the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Janene Lovullo in Broadway, Intimate. The event takes place at the Arthur Newman Theatre. Ms. Lovullo performs song from her latest CD, which includes Broadway favorites. Chris Marlowe is the Musical Director & Arranger for this performance.
Whether you’re a local looking for an upgrade or visiting from abroad to look at luxury international real estate properties, if you click here you’ll find some unparalleled listings.
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There are many reasons why it’s so important to find a good realtor with the right expertise, but especially when you’re trying to sell a home in a competitive market. When it comes to Palm Springs homes for sale or real estate in any other area, an experienced realtor knows best how to price your home accurately and can help make it stand out among similar properties.
Whether you’re selling a property in La Quinta or another part of the desert, there are some standard methods that a realtor will do to make your property stand out. In addition to tapping into their own referral network, where they can provide exposure to potential buyers across the world, there are several other integral avenues that a good realtor will typically pursue.
Realtors will also use their own online presence to promote your property. They will typically feature your home on a web page, with photos that highlight the house’s best features. Research shows that buyers are more likely to visit a property that has an array of photos online, so it’s important to feature as many photos as possible from wide angles and with good lighting. Even the most gorgeous Palm Springs homes for sale need to be represented in the best possible light.
In addition to the “for sale” yard sign and open houses your realtor will set up, they may sometimes post your listing on other websites so they can maximize exposure among search engine results. This opens up your market significantly, and can even attract buyers from foreign countries who are interested in investing in the international real estate market. Believe it or not, often times these buyers will travel across the world to come take a good look at equestrian homes, beach condos, a mountain cabin or property in La Quinta.
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