La Quinta Country Club’s spectacular clubhouse offers stunning views of the Santa Rosa Mountains
La Quinta Country Club has a long standing history of tradition and excellence, founded in 1959 by a group who wanted to create a Country Club like none other in the Palm Springs Valley at that time. And that’s exactly what they did by turning 130 acres of raw desert into a championship golf course in just 8 short months. By 1962, the USA Championships were held at La Quinta Country Club, bringing TV coverage that put the course in the limelight and eventually attracted the Palm Springs Golf Classic (later to become the Bob Hope Classic) to the Club.
LA QUINTA COUNTRY CLUB LEGACY
Originally, the golf course at LQCC was built solely for the La Quinta Resort. In 1971, it was purchased by its members and became a private equity club. Its original clubhouse, a spacious Mediterranean style structure completed in 1966, was damaged by a series of earthquakes and was eventually rendered unusable. In its place now stands a stunning new clubhouse facility where members can play some of the best golf in the Palm Springs Valley, socialize and participate in a myriad of activities and enjoy the finest dining offering California Cuisine. Keep in mind that the LQCC is member financed, owned and managed… assuring their tradition of excellence is kept high.
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By Kimberley Kelly
18 Sep, 2015
Community Types, Equestrian properties, Horseshows, Indio, Palm Springs Valley, Polo & HITS, Ranches, Ranches and Farm Land
equestrian properties for sale, Palm Springs valley, Ranches and Farm Land for Sale
A romantic evening on a Full Moon Trail Ride in Morongo Valley
Equestrian activities in the Palm Springs Valley are plentiful, so if you happen to be a horse person, rest assured there is no lack of exciting things to experience here in the desert. Whether it’s watching world class horse events held in the east valley – Indio, Coachella, Thermal area… or trail riding in the Palm Springs, High Desert area, your options are many.
SADDLE UP FOR A TRAIL RIDE
Trail riding is such a wonderful way to get intimate with the desert landscape. It’s meditative. You’re surrounded by nature as you wind your way on horseback through the ruggedly beautiful canyons of the local mountains with the sun on your back. Palm Springs is fortunate to be home to historic Smoke Tree Stables, tucked away off of the busy thoroughfare of Highway 111. There you will find group packages available for trail riding adventures into nearby Indian Canyons, where the Cahuilla Indians used to roam and native palm oases and streams grace the landscape. Picnic lunches or western cookouts can be included, whatever your fancy.
You can also hightail it up to the High Desert area of Morongo Valley for trail riding… it’s just a short 20 minute drive up Hwy. 62 from Palm Springs. The High Desert offers it’s own brand of magic, as it’s typically at least 10 degrees cooler up there (which is nice in the summer) and the scenic views of snow-capped Mount San Jacinto and Mount San Gorgonio absolutely take your breath away. You’ll think you’re in the Swiss Alps.
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Making sure it’s the right home for you!
BUYING A NEW HOME? IT’S A BIG DECISION
Palm Springs Valley buyers want to know what are the things to look for when buying a home … that is, besides the obvious structural ones that would be covered in a home inspection? Homebuying can be a very emotional experience for people, unless perhaps you’re buying real estate for investment purposes. Home is where the Heart is, so be sure to tune in to some of the less obvious aspects of the houses you visit while going through the rigors of your search for just the right one.
Most anyone who has ever bought a home will tell you that there are intangible aspects of a home that factored in to their decision to buy it besides the look or style of it, its location, etc. Let’s look at a few of these:
The way the Indoors and Outdoors flow together – especially in Southern California where we live, this is an attribute that is almost a requirement. A large percentage of time is spent outdoors on the patio, next to the pool, in the spa, around the fire pit.
Orientation on the lot – where does the sun rise and set in the Palm Springs Valley in regard to how house is set upon its lot? This orientation affects your heating and cooling bills, but here in the desert, it’s mostly about keeping the house cool. The late afternoon sun from the west can be harsh in the summertime and produce extra heat buildup.
Lot grade – Is the lot very steep, causing potential difficulties with drainage, landscape retention, driveway accessability?
Natural light – Are there enough windows and skylights to provide a pleasing amount of light? If you’ve narrowed your search down, you may want to visit the prospects several times at different times of day or night to get a true feel for what the light is like.
Neighbors – How close are the adjoining homes to the one you are considering? If privacy is a big consideration for you, you’ll want to walk the prospective home and check out where the windows are located and what views you see out of them. You may not like the fact that the neighbor can look right into your Master Bathroom window. Walk the perimeter and see how it “feels.” Here’s a short video below for you to watch with more tips about what to look for in a home…
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ENJOY THE JOURNEY
So pay attention to your senses while searching for your next home to buy. Try visualizing yourself in it and make sure the tangibles and intangibles align with your lifestyle and your sensibilities. When you wake up in the bedroom of your new home or are making dinner in the gourmet kitchen that was an absolute Must on your list, you’ll want to know that you listened to the voice inside of you that knows you and your family and that indeed, the right choice for a home was made.
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LOOKING FOR A “STAYCATION” LOCATION?
Two Bunch Palms famous for its mineral water grotto.
Palm Springs Valley is such a jewel, as it is home to compelling locales like Two Bunch Palms resort. I’m always surprised how many full time desert residents I talk to have never made the short drive to Desert Hot Springs to partake of Two Bunch Palms’ unique offerings. Once there, you feel like you are in a place out of time. Two of the Resort’s most famous offerings are their artesian mineral waters, revered by people from all over the world, and its illustrious history involving the notorious gangster Al Capone.
Personally, I go to Two Bunch to “take the waters,” as many refer to the mineral lithium rich hot springs that naturally occur in the Palm Springs Valley from the ground underneath. The lithium has an amazingly soothing effect that’s hard to describe . . . it’s something you have to experience firsthand. Many people come to Two Bunch just to float in the grotto, equipped with a good book and a cold beverage, as you must keep yourself well hydrated while immersed in the hot water for any length of time. It’s easy to drift off into a dreamlike state and there’s a quiet hush around the waters, with a sign posted asking for silence to be observed, or at least quiet whispering. You will never sleep better or feel more relaxed than after a soak here.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO AFTER A SOAK AT TWO BUNCH?
Two Bunch Palms dates as far back as the 1930s when Al Capone and his gangster buddies hung out there, it was their desert hideaway. Once you’ve visited the Resort, nestled amid native palm and tamarisk trees, it’s easy to understand why they were drawn to this little oasis. Since that time, Two Bunch has also served as a hideaway for many of Hollywood’s celebrities and those seeking a relaxing respite away from the public eye. It was acquired by new owners in 2012 and has been updated and improved to attract an ever-growing number of guests. How about a walk through the labyrinth to calm and center your mind? Take a stroll in nature around the grounds and you’ll find the turtle and duck ponds, so soothing. There is a menu of amazing spa treatments, maybe a mud bath today? Yoga in the yoga dome and other fitness classes are available for those with energy to work off.
A light-filled and natural ambiance sets the tone at farm to table restaurant, Essense
FARM TO TABLE RESTAURANT AND THE COMFIEST OF ACCOMMODATIONS
As a guest at Two Bunch, you’ll want to eat healthily. . . that’s what their guests typically desire. And for most of us, eating is an adventure and an important part of any vacation. Two Bunch’s newly renovated restaurant, Essense, offers fresh organic dishes in a comfortable natural wood and stone environment. Sharing plates is encouraged and all part of the dining experience. And as for accommodations, the Resort offers 70 newly renovated rooms and suites scattered around the 77 acre property. Some of the rooms are conveniently situated close to the soaking grotto and restaurant/spa area and others provide a more private setting. All rooms are outfitted with energy efficient sustainable elements and fixtures . . . and the organic linens complete the ambiance.
BEFORE THE BUSY SEASON SETS IN . . . INDULGE
Two Bunch Palms resort is waiting for you to discover it! They offer Special Packages, so let yourself be enticed into a little trip to where you don’t know what time it is, and you don’t really care . . . AND it’s located conveniently right down the road from your Palm Springs Valley home. You’re worth it, and I assure you, you’ll be back again . . . the waters are addicting!
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La Quinta’s Farmers market in Old Town La Quinta
Our Desert Area offers a myriad of “Things to Do”. Even in the summer, with our triple digit heat, there are plenty of things to do. This fun facebook page, “365 Things To Do in the Palm Springs Valley.” always offers up some fun activities..both day time and evening!
La Quinta has a charming shopping center in Old Town, which is located very near to the La Quinta Spa & Resort, Duna La Quinta, The Citrus, Haciendas, Santa Rosa Cove, the La Quinta Cove, and all the surrounding areas. Offering several different dining options including Solano’s for American cuisine, Vue (formerly The Wine Bar), and also the always entertaining The Grill on Main Street.
The summer is always a great time to shop for property in our Palm Springs Valley. Sellers that really want to sell tend to leave their properties For Sale during our hot months. Buyers that brave the heat are usually pretty serious about buying in the desert. El Paseo in Palm Desert rocks the entire summer with it’s shops and restaurants. The River is the mall of choice and offers a 16 screen theatre too! Palm Springs has Pool parties regularly at it’s many family friendly Hotels..The Ace, The Hacienda Hotel and the Saguaro all participate. Take a stroll in the Village when it’s NOT season, and get to know the owners of the boutique shopping stores. Modernism is rampant in Palm Springs.
Many golf options available to La Quinta residents
Whether you’re looking for a Golf Course home, a Non-golf course home, or Land or Equestrian Property, the summer is always a good time to “get your feet wet” and start viewing what’s out there.
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Arriving at a Sales Price for your Palm Springs Valley property involves careful evaluation of many things..mostly moving parts. Your Sales Price may be a bit different than your Listing Price. The short video is pretty right on as far as basic considerations in arriving at a number…There are several other factors to think about when you are deciding what you will accept in terms of a “Sale Price” on your property. Here in the Palm Springs Valley, it is important to consider Location of your property within the community itself. How many hours of sun are on your outdoor area on average/day? What are your views? And one factor that is often over looked is “What is your back story?”
If you have a home to sell in The Hideaway Golf Club, for example, you would of course go over the SOLD comps very carefully with your Realtor. But it’s also critical for your Realtor to know “the back story” of those closed homes. Why did that particular home sell for that price/sf? What was the owners’ motivation? Were there issues with the condition of the property? Did the Sellers credit the Buyers’ some money at close? Many things can influence the reasons why a Seller accepts a particular price.
What WERE those amenities??
Be sure you are working with an Agent that knows the location, the community, the type of property, and the recent comparables. Then consider your OWN back story when thinking about how much you will need to sell your property.
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Silver Rock Public Golf Course in la Quinta, CA
La Quinta, California offers a plethora of choices and opportunities when it comes to buying a property. You need to decide many things as you move toward a home purchase. Are you going to be a year round resident, vacation home owner, or Investment Property owner? Do you want Golf Facilities, Equestrian Facilities, Swim facilities..what do you like to do? Then there is always the issue of financing.
What steps do you need to undertake to obtain a Loan? This short video will help you with this one..Once you have your financing in place, another important aspect to buying a home in La Quinta, is “do I want a Golf course, gated, La Quinta Community?” What do you get for your monthly HOA (Homeowners payments?) Will you use these amenities? Move slowly and thoughtfully toward your home purchase, and use a local Realtor that understands the Local market trends and areas.
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Indian Palms CC
It’s been REALLY busy this season here in the palm Springs Valley! Entry level homes are rockin and rollin along since prices are still reasonable, and Loan qualifying has loosened up just a bit! I have two terrific new Listings coming up..both will be active next week. BOTH would rent very well as Investment Lease home opportunities.
La Quinta: Norman Estates in PGA West.
55455 Medallist Dr. , La Quinta. $1,340,000 turnkey furnished! This Former Model Home is offered Turnkey Furnished! Stunning Southern Mountain vistas over a rolling Green of the nearby Fairway. 3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms in the main home, as well as a REALLY roomy Casita with a walk-in closet, large bathroom, and plenty of room for a kitchenette area. HOA’s of approx. $517/mo.
Indio, Indian Palms Country Club: $92,000 Turnkey furnished
82075 Country Club Dr., #41. What a darling, turnkey Condo at guard gated Indian Palms CC! 2 beds/1 bath, and just a short walk to the clubhouse, restaurants, pool and gym. This condo rents very well. Year round rent is approx. $850/mo. Seasonal Rental is $1850/mo. The peak Festival lease season is $1850/wk.
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When you’re ready to view Indio homes for sale or invest in the international real estate market, there are a few strategies you can employ to make the entire process more productive and efficient. Follow these closely and you’re sure to find your dream house.
1. Do the math. Before you embark on this process, make sure that you’re truly ready to buy and determine a realistic budget. While the housing market is definitely on the upswing, it doesn’t mean you need to make a quick move. Pull your credit report and make sure everything is accurate and repair what you can so you get the best interest rates possible. Break down all of your monthly expenses and bills and create a practical budget that includes contingency plans and emergency funds. If it all still looks good, then you can begin your search with confidence.
2. Build a solid team. Make sure that you find a reliable team to work with, including a short sale realtor or agent, and an experienced attorney to guide you through the extensive and sometimes complicated paperwork. You’ll also need an inspector, appraiser and title company that you can trust. Ask friends and colleagues for referrals, check all references and search for reviews before you select the team. You may even want to look them up on the Better Business Bureau website. If you’re making an international real estate transaction, find an expert who has specific experience navigating them.
3. Keep your options open. Don’t rely solely on agents and brokers to find you the house of your dream. Put the word out that you’re in the market and tap into your social media sites to network. Search for properties and Indio homes for sale online—many real estate professionals have created customized websites with lots of searchable functionality.
Visit this link to browse listings of Indio homes for sale and real estate in other areas of the Palm Springs Valley.
image: elegyandirony.files.wordpress.com
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One of the most amazing events for Palm Springs Valley residents and owners of Palm Desert real estate is the world famous Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF). Founded in 1990 by former Mayor Sonny Bono, the festival is celebrating its 26h year with more than 200 films from over 60 countries, as well as special events and galas. One of the largest film festivals in North America, the PSIFF welcomes more than 135,000 attendees every year.
The PSIFF has a unique draw in that it presents most of the films under consideration in the Best Foreign Language category for the Academy Awards, in addition to many premieres of independent features and documentaries. This gives the lucky residents and owners of homes in La Quinta and the surrounding areas an amazing opportunity to be the first to see some incredible films that may not even be released in theaters in the United States. The stellar line-up of screenings are held on 15 screens throughout Palm Springs.
This PSIFF also offers the perfect opportunity for owners of homes in La Quinta and the surrounding regions, as well as the many visitors who flock to the area this time of year, to rub shoulders with some of their favorite film actors. The event is renowned for its annual Black Tie Awards Gala, which honors achievements by an incredible list of artists and talent. Citizenfour director Laura Poitras will be honored with the inaugural Filmmakers Who Make a Difference Award as part of its Talking Pictures program. The screening takes place Friday, January 9 at 4:30 p.m, with the awards presentation following. Variety Magazine will present actor Steve Carell with the Creative Impact in Acting Award to celebrate his scope of work, and two-time Directors Guild of America Award-winner and Oscar, Golden Globe, and Tony Award nominated director Rob Marshall will receive the Creative Impact in Directing Award, to honor his career as a theater and film director. In addition, Variety will present Emmy Award winning comedian, director and actor Chris Rock with the Creative Impact in Comedy Award. These awards are presented by Mercedes-Benz. In the past, those honored have included Richard Gere, Helen Mirren, Javier Bardem, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, Clint Eastwood, Daniel Day-Lewis, Leonardo DiCaprio and Ron Howard, among many others. The festival began on January 2 and runs through January 12 this year.
Whether you live in Los Angeles, are a resident of Orange County, or own Palm Desert real estate, this is the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant and stimulating Desert Cities culture. For more information and to buy passes, visit psfilmfest.org.
Click here if you are in the market for Palm Deset real estate or homes in another part of the Palm Springs Valley. image credit: psfilmfest.org/Lucid Media
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