If you’ve been following our summer moving tips, you’re probably about halfway done with planning and packing for your move. It doesn’t matter if you recently bought Palm Desert real estate property or if you just now started eyeing Indian Wells homes for sale—a little forethought and advanced planning can streamline the process and reduce the stress of moving. Here are a few more ways to make the move easier and more efficient.
Protect the actual move. Even when you use a professional mover, accidents can happen. You may want to get full value insurance protection for peace of mind. This type of insurance covers any items that are lost or damaged in the move. When choosing a professional mover, it’s good to get referrals from trusted sources and to check the company’s online reviews and status with the Better Business Bureau.
Photograph the hookups. When it comes to hooking up home entertainment systems, DVRs and other electronics, it can be difficult if you’re not an expert. Save yourself some time and energy by photographing all the connections before you unplug anything. Label the wires as you unhook them so that you can match them to the appropriate electronics. Put all the loose wires in a box or zip lock bags that are clearly labeled. Planning ahead like this will make it that much easier to enjoy your first few nights warming up your new Palm Desert real estate property.
Pick and choose in an eco-friendly way. Cleaning products and anything toxic, such as detergents, cleansers, furniture polish, pesticides and paint, can be very unwieldy items to pack. Throw away as many as possible before you move (make sure to dispose of them in an eco-friendly way, of course). These items can be heavy when boxed up together, and often times, they are not worth the money you would save by simply buying them again. For those products that you really must take, pack them in a box that you place inside another box to protect against leakage. Make sure to seal all of the containers tightly so that their contents don’t spill and keep these items separate from your other boxes.
If you’re just starting to look at Indian Wells homes for sale, click here to browse some spectacular listings.
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This weekend in Palm Springs is filled with magical and unique events that offer the perfect break from work, looking at Palm Desert homes for sale, checking out luxury properties in the international market or just changing up your lazy weekend days.
On Thursday, August 15, 6 to 8 pm, the innovative independent film, Student, will screen as part of the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Inspired by the Dostoevsky masterpiece, Crime and Punishment, the film tells the story of a solitary philosophy student who is drawn towards the commission of a violent crime. The screening takes place at the Annenberg Theater.
On Saturday, August 17, from 8 to 10 pm, a live performance of the Kalin • Jinger • Hobson Carnival of Wonders will take place at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino.
On Saturday, August 17, Spotlight 29 Casino will feature an amazing Ladies Night Out with an incredible array of funky, exciting music ranging from smooth R&B and romantic pop hits to hip hop favorites. Musicians slated to attend include Bell Biv DeVoe, who will perform hits including “Poison” and “Do Me,” KC & JoJo with hits such as “All My Life,” and Brenton Wood, who will show some love with “Gimme a Little Sign,” “I Like the Way You Love Me,” and “Oogum Boogum.” In addition, Timmy T will perform “One More Try,” and Candyman performing hits such as “Knockin’ Boots.”
On Sunday, August 18 from 2 to 4 pm, the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Lucky So and So – A Tribute to Duke Ellington at the Arthur Newman Theatre. This exciting live show features performances by Arienne Battiste and Angelo Divino, who will take you to “Duke’s Place” and pay homage to his amazing career that spanned five decades of songwriting and band leading for almost every major recording artist. Legendary pianist Howlett Smith will accompany them on the piano.
If you’re inspired by this cool slate of activities and are considering making the move to Palm Springs, click here to view listings of Palm Desert homes for sale.
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While it definitely heats up during the summer in Palm Springs, there are plenty of awesome ways to cool down in the desert cities. A favorite of those who own homes in Palm Desert and other areas of Coachella Valley is the Palm Desert Aquatic Center. Designed with water lovers of all ages in mind, there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Residents and tourists alike enjoy this cool attraction—and those who visit Palm Springs from abroad in search of luxury international real estate are thrilled by this opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a refreshing atmosphere.
The nearly eight-acre facility opened in June of 2011 near the popular Palm Desert Civic Center Park, just a few miles east of Palm Springs and in close proximity to all the desert cities. Residents and those who own homes in Palm Desert tout its gorgeous, Olympic-size swimming pool as the biggest, most upscale and well-maintained pool in the entire Coachella Valley. With its 1600 square foot recreational pool, two 20 foot water slides, plash park and assortment of tunnels, fountains, one and three meter diving boards, special pools for children and great lanes for lap swimming, there is literally something for water lovers from all fitness levels.
Open to the public all year round, the $8 million center is operated by the YMCA of the Desert and offers recreational swim and lap swim every day from 11 am to 4 pm, as well as youth and adult swim lessons, a stroke clinic, water aerobics, water polo and “Toddle Time” for young children. There are lounge chairs and umbrellas available poolside, as well as a grassy lawn for sunbathing or picnics that offers those in town seeking luxury international real estate properties a chance to experience the laid back and relaxing desert lifestyle. In addition, there is a snack bar and a community multi-purpose room available for events and celebrations.
The Palm Desert Aquatic Center is located at 73751 Magnesia Falls Drive on the northeast corner of Civic Center Park. For more information, call 760.565.7467.
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If you’re starting to think about selling your Palm Desert real estate, now is a good time to begin getting everything in order and giving attention to some of the details of your household. Whether you’re selling a condo, mansion or an equestrian property, if you wait until the last minute, you could cause yourself a lot of unnecessary stress. Don’t get overwhelmed—start now and you’ll be in great shape by the time you need to stage your home for viewings and open houses. Here are just a few little things you can do to get the ball rolling and really make a difference when the time comes to sell your house.
Fix minor leaks. Do a survey of all the faucets on your property, paying special attention to any annoying leaks. When a potential buyer is viewing your equestrian property, you don’t want them to hear a minor leak and think it’s indicative of a faulty plumbing system. Install new rubber gaskets to fix leaky faucets, replace washers on dripping ones and fix the inner workings when necessary.
Get the exterior in order. Make sure your garbage is stowed in an area where it’s not an eyesore or creating permanent stains on the ground surrounding it. Always seal your garbage tightly so animals can’t get into it. Once they do, they’ll always be back for more and can become a bigger problem. The best case scenario is to buy or build an enclosure for your garbage and recycling bins. If you store firewood on your property, make sure it’s stacked neatly in one area.
Pamper your landscape. Make sure your lawn is watered and mowed frequently to discourage weeds and train grass to grow in lushly. Water early in the day to reduce evaporation; avoid watering at night, it can transform your lawn into a breeding ground for disease. Get your hedges trimmed, plant seasonal flowers that are easy to maintain, and make sure any trees on your property are properly tended to. If you are like many owners of Palm Desert real estate and have a pool, make sure to have it cleaned and maintained regularly.
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Whether you’re searching for Palm Desert real estate or looking at equestrian properties, it’s important to consider the surrounding neighborhoods. Luckily, the neighborhoods in areas like Palm Springs Valley tend to be very safe and upscale. However, you should always do your due diligence before making the commitment of investing in real estate. You’re not just buying land, brick and mortar—you’re buying into a neighborhood. Take some time to research the area with these important factors in mind.
The school system. If you have children, make sure to research statistics about the schools’ performance, graduation rates, test scores and student-teacher ratios. Likewise, if you don’t have children and don’t want to be close to the noise that can sometimes be associated with them, you may want to make sure that the property you’re interested in is not in close proximity to any schools. If you’re looking at equestrian properties with lots of acreage, this will most likely not be an issue.
The commute. Practice your commute to work during rush hour so you have a realistic expectation. If you’re looking at real estate in a big city, research the mass transit options and perform a test run.
Ensure safe surroundings. Go online and do a criminal search, using the ZIP code’s crime statistics. You should also check the area in the National Sex Offender Public Website at NSOPW.gov.
Check different hours. Visit the property at different times of the day and night to see if there are any elements that may cause discomfort in your potential new home. Traffic, noise from pets and children, odors and other factors may not present themselves during the time you first look at the house.
Meet the community. Last but not least, try to meet some neighbors and residents of the community to get their takes on the pros and cons of the neighborhood.
Click here if you’re ready to view listings of Palm Desert real estate and get the process started.
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Palm Canyon Trail to the Stone Pools
One of the many reasons so many people choose to move to Palm Springs and retire here are the plethora of recreational activities available to residents and visitors alike. Many seek Palm Springs homes for sale solely for its access to the natural desert beauty of the area.
Few areas can truly compete with some of the hiking trails and opportunities in the Palm Springs region. Whether you find that dream property in Palm Desert or an equestrian home in Thermal, you know you’ll have access to more than 140 hiking trails that offer scenic views of the gorgeous nearby Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountain ranges, as well as the most diverse topography and flora in the entire country. Whether you prefer the high country or to visit national state parks such as Joshua Tree or Mount San Jacinto State Park, you’ll find what you’re looking for among your extensive choice of hiking areas.
Below are a few favorites recommended by hikers who own property in Palm Desert and know what they’re talking about.
1. Whitewater Canyon / Pacific Crest Trail Ridge Loop. Also known as the Whitewater Preserve, this four mile long hike is considered easy, and therefore should be one the whole family can enjoy. You’ll gain between 300 and 400 feet as you trek along the canyon that is home to the renowned Whitewater River, and you’ll also access the famous Pacific Crest Trail, aka PCT. The amazing views of the Coachella Valley, as well as all of the distant and nearby mountain ranges, make this relaxing hike very worth your while.
2. Palm Canyon Trail to the Stone Pools. This six mile hike is considered of moderate difficulty. At the peak of this hike, you will have gained approximately 880 feet. Picturesque views of Palm Springs, the desert, plunging cliffs and waterfalls make this a gorgeous and memorable hike.
3. Lost Palms Oasis Trail at Cottonwood Spring. Located inside the magnificent Joshua Tree National Park, this eight mile trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty. You’ll gain 400 feet as you traverse everything from lush washes and plateaus to see a special group of palm trees called the Lost Palms Oasis.
If you’re an outdoor lover and ready to make a move to this spectacular area, click here to view listings of Palm Springs homes for sale.
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Whether you live in Indio, Desert Hot Springs or are the lucky owner of La Quinta real estate, there’s always something to do in Palm Springs Valley within minutes of your location. The thriving arts and culture scene in the desert cities is unrivalled, no matter what time of year. From independent film screenings and live music to outdoor cabaret performances, you’ll find activities for all ages—and enough to motivate those in the real estate market to search high and low for homes in Palm Desert.
On Thursday, July 11, the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum continues with Life Kills Me. This clever comedy tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a grieving cinematographer and a morbidly obsessed drifter. The screening takes place at the Annenberg Theater from 6 to 8 pm.
From July 11 – 14, the ever popular JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa hosts The Desert Classic, four days of great dancing and fun in the sun. The event includes World Pro-Am Dancesport Series Qualifying Championships, Amateur Open International Ballroom and Latin Scholarships, Professional and Rising Star Events in all four styles, as well as junior events. A popular venue favored by tourists from all over the world and owners of homes in Palm Desert alike, the renowned JW Marriott is located at 74855 Country Club Drive in Palm Desert.
On Saturday July 13 and Sunday, July 14, Idyllwild Lemon Lily Festival & Blue Grass Music will be in full effect at the Idyllwild Nature Center. The unique festival features activities and fun for all ages, including a local arts and crafts show, a native plant sale, Pioneer Town and educational exhibits and speakers. The event takes place on both days from 9 am to 4 pm.
On Sunday, July 14, Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Ronstadt, Riddle & Robyn starring Robyn Spangler, who was voted LA’s Best Female Cabaret Artist 2011 by Broadway World. Accompanied by the world-famous Todd Schroeder on piano and Tim Christensen on bass, Spangler will cover songs such as What’s New, I’ve Got A Crush On You, Crazy He Calls Me, Someone To Watch Over Me and more. The performance takes place at the Arthur Newman Theatre from 2 to 4 pm.
Just another weekend in Palm Springs Valley! Click here to learn more about the community and find listings of La Quinta real estate.
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In the United States, millions of people live in complexes or communities governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA). A HOA is a corporation typically formed by a real estate developer so that they can manage the sales of real estate in a residential subdivision. Many Palm Springs homes for sale and property in Palm Desert falls under this category, so we thought our readers might appreciate learning about the benefits living in this type of community brings.
An HOA provides developers with privileged voting rights to govern the association while marketing and selling the homes or lots. Once they sell a predetermined number of lots, they are relieved of financial and legal responsibility of the organization and can then transfer it to the HOA. In most communities governed by a HOA, membership is required as a condition of purchase.
Much research indicates that many people enjoy living in communities governed by an HOA. We’ve seen it over and over again among buyers of property in Palm Desert as well, so we asked some experts why they thought homeowners enjoyed living in HOA communities so much. Here are the top 3 reasons they gave:
1. HOAs create communities. When you live in a community governed by an HOA, you know that every resident has agreed to certain rules and regulations, so there are no grey areas, which removes stress between neighbors. In addition, many HOAs coordinate mixers and other events so that you can get to know your neighbors and have an opportunity to bond.
2. HOAs protect and boost property values. The main goal of HOAs is to protect the value of each individual homeowner’s property, through establishing rules and regulations and setting standards regarding the community aesthetic. In addition, HOAs ensure that maintenance of the neighborhood is up to par, as well as each individual homeowner’s house and lawn. Maintaining the community as a whole ensures that everyone’s property retains its value.
3. The amenities. HOAs provide and maintain amenities and important services, such as security. In addition, recreational facilities fall under the HOA’s responsibilities, including a clubhouse, gym, dog park, tennis court, gated entry, Jacuzzis and swimming pools, which are highly desired amenities among those seeking Palm Springs homes for sale.
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Palm Springs comes alive on Independence Day, as people of all ages come out to celebrate and enjoy the wide-ranging festivities that the desert cities have to offer. It’s a great time to visit and experience the community, especially if you’re looking at Rancho Mirage homes for sale and are interested in checking out the Coachella Valley during the summer.
On Wednesday, July 3 the Backstreet Art District presents its “First Wednesday” Art Walk at Images by Gideon Fine Art Gallery. Experience fine art, meet the artists, see working studios and enjoy refreshments at this vibrant event. First Wednesday takes place from 6 to 9 pm. Images by Gideon Fine Art Gallery is located at 2682 South Cherokee Way in Palm Springs. For more information, call 760.250.1521.
On Thursday, July 4, a spectacular Independence Day Celebration takes place at the amazing Palm Desert Civic Center Park from 7:15 pm to 9:30 pm. A brilliant 20 minute fireworks display will be accompanied by synchronized music on The Mix 100.5 FM starting at 9 pm. In addition, there will be live music from the Swing Cats Band and other activities. It’s the ideal time to check out the Civic Center Park, which is one of the pride and joys of residents and owners of homes in Palm Desert. For more information, call 760.346.0611.
Also on the 4th, there will be a dazzling Independence Day Celebration benefitting the AIDS Assistance Program at the legendary O’Donnell House. The evening includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and fireworks. The event starts at 7:30 pm and fireworks begin at 9:15 pm. Tickets are $100 per person and advance purchase is required. Contact 760.325.8481 or purchase tickets online at www.aidsassistance.org.
There will also be a Fourth of July Parade and Community Celebration at La Quinta Park, located at 77865 Avenida Montezuma. The 4th of July parade begins at 4:30 pm followed by a chili cook-off, beer garden and other food and entertainment in the Laguna Park off of Avenida Montezuma. The evening will end with a spectacular and unforgettable fireworks display! If you’re interested in La Quinta properties or nearby Rancho Mirage homes for sale, this is a great opportunity to witness these communities in their full glory.
If the weekend inspires you, click here to view listings of homes in Palm Desert and the rest of Coachella Valley.
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If you’ve been following our real estate photography series, you are probably ready to start shooting your home in Palm Desert so you can create an amazing, eye-catching listing and put your property on the market. However, keep in mind there are many ways to improve your photos so that your listing stands out among the rest and highlights your home’s best features. Mastering the principles below will enhance your photography skills and provide the best results possible, whether you’re taking photos of sprawling equestrian homes, luxury properties on a golf course or a downtown loft.
Create an even lighting scheme. You’ll want to create even light schemes in every room so there are no areas that are too dark or too bright. Adjust whatever you can, such as lamps, lighting and your flash. The camera captures a narrow range from dark to light, so rooms that are evenly lit will display greater detail in each photograph.
Avoid fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lighting is difficult to work with, especially when you’re a beginning photographer. Even the most gorgeous home in Palm Desert can appear an ugly shade of green in photos that are lit with fluorescent lighting. Mixing fluorescent with natural light or regular light bulbs can be tricky as well, so avoid it as much as possible.
Embrace overcast skies. While it may not seem optimal, overcast skies can actually be superb for shooting both interiors and exterior real estate shots. From inside of a home, the windows will look just the right shade of bright. When shooting outside, you don’t have to worry so much about where the sun is or making sure that it’s behind you, nor will you be limited to shooting at certain times of day.
Click here to see some great examples of photos taken for listings of equestrian homes.
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