When people start to think about retirement, it’s a no-brainer to consider Palm Springs real estate. The picture perfect setting of the Coachella Valley is famous for its retirement communities. From Palm Desert real estate to homes in La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells and beyond, there are many excellent options for people looking to spend their golden years in a beautiful, relaxing setting.
Many follow in the footsteps of celebrities such as Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra and Liberace when seeking a desert oasis to retire to because of the area’s picturesque landscape, thriving culture, brilliant arts community, fine dining and chic shopping options. The myriad of outstanding attractions draw many visitors each year, who have such a great time that they end up looking for Palm Springs homes for sale.
From the stunning vistas of the majestic Santa Rosa mountains and the magnificent Mount St. Jacinto that rises over 10,000 feet directly above the town to the artsy, upscale downtown Palm Springs, there is something for active adults with every type of interest to do. All year long, there are championship golf courses and tournaments to enjoy, world class tennis, hiking, cycling, horseback riding and more. The laidback atmosphere makes it seem like vacation all year round, yet at the same time there is plenty for the active to partake in, as well as much culture to enjoy.
Whether you choose Palm Desert real estate or homes in La Quinta, Indio or Rancho Mirage, you’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous year round weather, the outstanding attractions such as the Palm Springs aerial tramway, shopping at the designer outlets throughout the valley or the chic, upscale boutiques of the El Paseo shopping district. The list of activities and exciting things to do goes on and on and can make retiring a dream come true.
image: Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism
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If you’re considering homes for sale in Palm Desert, you’re in good company—everyone from retirees and families to newlyweds and singles find this city an incredible place to live. The combination of beautiful weather, prime location and bevy of attractions and recreational options make it possible to live the dream lifestyle that so many come to the Coachella Valley to enjoy. Plus, many of Palm Desert attractions are free or very low cost and are perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
1. Soak it up. The state-of-the-art Palm Desert Aquatic Center at the beautiful Palm Desert Civic Center Park is a no-brainer for anyone interested in homes for sale in Palm Desert, regardless of age. There are three incredible pools, including a one foot deep splash pool for the younger kids, complete with fun features that splash and spray those below. There is also family recreation pool with two water slides and an Olympic-size pool for those who take their swimming and diving seriously.
2. Get wild. One of Palm Desert’s most unique and exciting attractions is the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens. The mission of the Living Desert is to preserve a portion of the Colorado Desert in its natural state and promote desert conservation through education, appreciation and preservation. There is an array of one-of-a-kind exhibits and opportunities to see and learn about animals and ecosystems from all over the world, from the Ant Lab and Animal Chats to the Wildlife Wonders show and an interactive outdoor play land for kids called Gecko Gulch.
3. Get your culture on. For those who need a regular culture fix, The McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert features wide-ranging, world class artists, ensembles and companies at this incredible center for the performing arts. The state-of-the-art venue was founded in 1973 by the Friends of the Cultural Center, a group of Coachella Valley business, education and cultural leaders who wanted to make the performing arts available to as many people in the desert cities as possible.
image: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com
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If you’re not a U.S. native and are considering an international real estate transaction, then it’s very likely you’re considering real estate and homes for sale in areas such as Palm Desert, Indian Wells or La Quinta. This makes sense, as the cities in Palm Springs Valley boast a broad range of amenities that culminate in a lifestyle that feels like a permanent vacation.
In this post, we’re going to focus on lovely Palm Desert. In addition to the myriad golf tournaments and athletic events that take place here, there are plenty recreational activities, from relaxing poolside, wine tasting or shopping to hiking, cycling or horseback riding. Here are just a few things to do, that you can even squeeze in during a break from browsing homes for sale in Palm Desert.
1. Take in some art while you shop. Head to the uber chic el Paseo shopping district on the first Thursday of each month to scope out some of the exquisite art showcased in the dozens of unique galleries.
2. Be a foodie. Whether you’re a culinary aficionado or novice, you’ll love dining al fresco under the palms at one of the many excellent cafes. There is a bevy of fine dining options to choose from any day of the week, and plenty of opportunities to taste wine from some of the stellar California wineries, some of which are very close to Palm Springs Valley.
3. Get pampered. Feeling stressed from trying to navigate your international real estate transaction? Palm Desert offers the chance to revitalize your mind and body at one of its many upscale spas. Luxuriate for the day or a more extended period of time at the Desert Springs JW Marriott Resort & Spa, Shadow Mountain Resort & Club or one of the other options in close proximity.
4. Take in some architecture. There are a multitude of mid-century modern homes and exquisite public buildings designed by famed architects including William Krisel, Albert Frey and Walter White.
5. Play outdoors. Palm Desert is nestled in the beautiful foothills of our gorgeous mountain ranges and is just a short drive away from world-famous Joshua Tree National Park, which has a wide array of picturesque hiking trails. Palm Desert is also home to several beautiful, impeccably maintained parks and the remarkable Palm Desert Aquatic Center.
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Once again, there is an eclectic and exciting array of things to do in Palm Springs this weekend, making it the perfect time for a vacation or viewing real estate in Palm Desert, La Quinta or one of the other beautiful desert cities.
On Friday, October 17 from 9 to 11 pm, The Show at Agua Caliente Casino will host an iconic concert with Creedence Clearwater Revisited. The band was founded in 1995 by Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford, who founded the legendary Creedence Clearwater Revival more than 45 years ago and headlined the Saturday night slot at the renowned Woodstock Music Festival. This will be an amazing and unforgettable way to spend downtime after a long work week or viewing real estate in Palm Desert.
On Saturday, October 18 from 9 am to 10 am, the 27th annual Desert AIDS Walk will take place over a two and a half mile loop that starts and finishes at Ruth Hardy Park to raise much-needed funds for client services at Desert AIDS Project. Over the past 26 years, the event has raised more than $6.25 million.
Also on Saturday, from 9 am to 1 pm, the Living Desert will host Desert Garden Community Day, a popular free event geared towards everyone who loves gardening, from professionals to amateurs. There will be workshops including garden design, irrigation practices, water-wise gardening and proper pruning techniques, among other topics.
On Sunday, October 19, the CV History Museum 30th Birthday Bash will take place at the Coachella Valley History Museum. On Sunday, from 2 pm to 4 pm, the Arthur Newman Theatre will feature Julie Esposito in: “Open Your Window.” Also that day, the McCallum Theatre will host the third annual McCallum Theatre Family Fun Day from noon to 4:30 pm.
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Many people consider Palm Desert homes for sale and Indio real estate because of the proximity to areas like Desert Hot Springs. Known for having the best tasting water in the world, Desert Hot Springs boasts remarkable, mineral-rich hot and cold springs that are harnessed by many of its local healing getaways and boutique inns.
Situated in the high desert overlooking Coachella Valley, Desert Hot Springs offers a wide array of intimate resorts that feature spa services and represent the myriad architectural styles of the desert cities, from Mid-century Modern and restored Hacienda to Morrocan style or ultra causal.
Visitors from all across the globe are drawn to the area to soak in its therapeutic mineral springs for healing and relaxation—in fact, some people stop in for a visit on their way to and from looking at Indio real estate properties. The mineral waters are pure and odor-free, and boast an impressive array of healing benefits that have been tapped for centuries.
The therapeutic benefits of natural mineral springs are studied in balneology, which is very advanced in Europe and Japan. Findings indicate that soaking in natural mineral waters increases circulation and cell oxygenation, which has significant rejuvenating effects on the body. Soaking in the waters also revitalizes your body by stimulating your metabolism and balancing your natural systems. In addition, soaking can reduce pain and inflammation, while increasing mobility.
Drinking the crystal clear water is good for your health too, and not just because it tastes so good. It’s pumped directly from underground cold water springs and has won medals in annual international water competitions for several years in a row. Soak all day and consume this delicious water for a simple yet thoroughly rejuvenating experience. Living in close proximity to places like Desert Hot Springs is just one of the many amenities that living in the Coachella Valley avails its residents. image: tripadvisor.com
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Like the other desert communities in Palm Springs Valley, Indian Wells is considered one of the best places in the country to both live and visit. With its rich history, spectacular scenery and amazing climate, this bucolic resort town is an ideal destination for people of all ages. It’s no wonder people come from all over the world to vacation and end up searching for Indian Wells homes for sale —this haven is simply too difficult to leave!
Indian Wells has an amazing slate of outdoor recreational activities to choose from, including stellar golf courses, the world-class 80-acre Indian Wells Tennis Garden, stunningly beautiful hiking and biking trails, as well as a vibrant arts and culture community. Known as a celebrity oasis, the town is also reputed as an upscale location for business conferences and events. People who own Palm Desert properties and homes in other parts of the region often visit one of the four luxury resorts that Indian Wells is known for to rejuvenate and revitalize. The array of famed spa treatments available, nightclubs and casinos offers something for everyone.
The incredible weather that owners of Indian Wells real estate get to enjoy all year long makes it feel like you’re on vacation even when you’re at home—relaxing poolside is a favorite activity for locals and visitors alike. Proximity to the amazing desert shopping is another draw, as well as the multitude of fine dining options available in a wide range of cuisines and settings, some of which are globally renowned. Indian Wells is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges— the Santa Rosa Mountains are to the south, the San Jacinto Mountains are to the west, and the San Bernadino Mountains are to the north. Dry heat coupled with constantly sunny skies makes for an ideal climate not only for outdoor activities, but for improving health.
In addition to the stunning mountains, there are many lovely parks and breathtaking vistas to photograph or simply take in. Another reason why Indian Wells homes for sale appeal to buyers is that the entire region is extremely safe. The architecture is diverse and most of the desert cities have historic neighborhoods, some with celebrity home tours available.
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Palm Springs Valley is renowned among hiking aficionados for having some of the best trails in California. Outdoor vistas offer picturesque views of the area’s stunning natural beauty. Many people who are interested in viewing Palm Springs homes for sale check out the trails to get a taste of the desert’s unique and scenic environment.
During December, there are a few guided hikes that will help both beginners and advanced hikers learn about the area and have fun while getting accustomed to some of the stellar trails available. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, these hikes are so beautiful that you’ll find yourself giving Palm Desert real estate serious consideration, if you aren’t already.
The Palm Canyon Geology Hike takes place this Saturday, December 15 at 9 am. Part of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum’s hiking series, this guided tour will teach participants about the natural processes that helped form the beautiful Palm Canyon. Start your day off with this amazing hike, and then head off to look at Palm Springs homes for sale afterwards. The cost of the hike is $25 and includes entrance to the canyon (no charge for Museum members). Registration is required and participation is limited to 20 people, on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 760.833.8169 for more information or to register.
During December, there will be a free guided hike from the National Monument Visitor Center every Thursday and Saturday from 9 – 11:30 am. An interpretive guide will lead hikers through the Dead Indian Canyon and Carrizo Canyon, in hope of sighting endangered Peninsular Bighorn sheep. Both hikes are considered easy to moderate; Carrizo Canyon is three miles long and Dead Indian Canyon is 2.5 miles. This is the perfect way to explore parts of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountain ranges, which owners of Palm Desert real estate consider one of the most beautiful amenities of living here. The National Monument Visitor Center is located at 51-500 Hwy 74, four miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert. For more information, visit DesertMountains.org or call 760.862.9984.
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When it comes to Palm Desert real estate, the Stone Eagle private golf club and community exemplify the lifestyle the area is renowned for. Located on the west side of Highway 74, approximately 1.7 miles south of Highway 111 and El Paseo, the community is perfectly situated to take advantage of all that Palm Springs has to offer, yet still private and exclusive enough to provide a beautiful desert respite that feels secluded from city life.
The Stone Eagle development is a gated community set against a beautiful backdrop of dramatic canyons, picturesque ridges, beautiful water features and the stunning natural landscape of the desert. Each home boasts a natural palette coupled with unique designs that make the most of this incredible setting.
Located within the Santa Rosa Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, and surrounded by thousands of acres of protected land, Stone Eagle is unique and unparalleled in what it offers its residents and members. Yet for those times when residents want to enjoy the rest of Palm Springs, the community is less than two miles from El Paseo and its chic shops and fine dining options, and a short drive from the other desert cities.
What many seek when considering Palm Desert real estate is access to the championship golf that the region is famed for. Stone Eagle’s private golf club features a spectacular golf course designed by renowned architect Tom Doak. Doak is widely considered one of the most accomplished golf course architects of the modern era, and is the author of several books and essays on golf course design. In addition to the incredible course, there is always an array of club events and activities that offer members the opportunity to socialize at gathering places including The Aerie and The Den at Ten, which make the most of the beautiful setting.
image: stoneeaglegolf.com
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Get your vacation home ready to rent!
If you are lucky enough to own Palm Desert real estate or a property in another desert city as a second home and it sits empty for most of the year, you may want to consider renting it out for additional income. If that sounds like a good option for you, here are some tips for protecting and making the most out of your investment.
1. Get your property in good condition for renting out. Whether you own something in an amazing area, such as Indio or one of the many beautiful homes in La Quinta, you want it to look great and have everything in stellar working condition. However, you may not want to keep expensive items in there that will cost a lot if they get damaged or broken. For example, you may want to avoid expensive furnishings, window treatments, fixtures, chandeliers and appliances.
2. Will you shoot for short or long rental terms? There are many factors to consider when making this decision. When you own property in desirable locations, such as Indian Wells, La Quinta or Palm Desert real estate, you can bring in a significant amount of income with short-term renters and vacationers. However, your risk factor for potential damage increases somewhat, so you may want to use a property management company to handle the day-to-day operations, which cuts into your profits a little bit. Likewise, if you contract a long-term renter, you will only be dealing with them, though you will need to charge less than you would to short-term renters. While equestrian homes can bring in a lot of extra income, long-term may be a better bet, as there typically be a lot more buildings included and animals tend to cause more damage than humans.
3. Determine pricing and deposit amounts. If you’re not working with a property manager to rent out your property, you’ll need to compare your home to other similar properties. For example, if you are looking to rent out real estate in Indio, look at other homes in the area and compare your square footage and features to determine your price points and deposit requirements.
4. Establish policies. Will you allow the renters to sublet the property? Will you allow pets? If so, how much will you increase your deposit?
5. Screen renters. Once you place an ad or determine which property management company you’ll be working with, your next step is to ensure that renters are thoroughly screened. You can use a service or do it yourself by contacting references, previous landlords, running credit checks and confirming employment.
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There are so many reasons why Palm Desert real estate is in such demand. The beautiful climate, picturesque desert landscape and array of dining and recreational options make it a mecca for people of all ages. In addition, the crime rate in Palm Desert is very low—it is ranked as one of the safest cities in California. Read on for three reasons residents love living in Palm Desert.
1. The Pulse. With over 50,000 residents who live in Palm Desert all year long, the area has grown into a vibrant community with a pulse. The arts and culture scene is thriving, and the entertainment, shopping and fine dining opportunities offer diverse options at any given time. With the emergence of interest from buyers from the luxury international real estate market, foreigners who own vacation homes in Palm Desert are bringing additional cultural flavor to the scene.
2. The Diverse Population. The demographic of residents who own Palm Desert real estate is equally wide-ranging, from singles, new couples and young families to career professionals and retirees. The exceptional school system makes it a great place for children to attend either private or public school, and there are great colleges in close proximity as well, including University of California at Riverside.
3. Access. This fast growing city is at the geographic heart of Coachella Valley, giving it access to all of the other nearby desert cities—and it’s also an easy drive to Los Angeles, Orange County or the lovely beach cities in the San Diego region. With such an array of incredible places to visit in such close proximity, it’s nearly impossible to get bored when you live in Palm Desert. The Palm Springs International Airport is only minutes away from Palm Desert, and there is easy access to excellent medical facilities, including the Eisenhower Medical Center and Desert Regional Medical Center.
Whether you’re an investor from the luxury international real estate market or simply want to move to the desert, you’ll find all that you need and more in beautiful Palm Desert.
image: tripadvisor.com
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When people start to think about retirement, it’s a no-brainer to consider Palm Springs real estate. The picture perfect setting of the Coachella Valley is famous for its retirement communities. From Palm Desert real estate to homes in La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells and beyond, there are many excellent options for people looking to spend their golden years in a beautiful, relaxing setting.
