Whether you plan to live in your first home for several decades or if want to sell your Palm Spring real estate just a few years after you buy it, it’s important to inform and educate yourself so that you understand every aspect of the process. Buying your first home can be very exciting and overwhelming, which is why you need to arm yourself with information so that you clearly understand all your financial responsibilities. Here are a few basic tips for getting through the process as smoothly as possible.
Know your real budget. Often times, buyers qualify for loans and get so excited about the opportunity that they immediately start looking at homes for sale in Indian Wells or luxury properties that they can’t really afford. While you may be able to afford your monthly mortgage payment, there are other costs to consider and factor into your budget. There will be closing costs, home improvements and new furniture needed, as well as insurance and the possibility of Homeowners Association (HOA) fees in certain communities. You’ll also want to have an emergency fund for any unforeseen accidents that may require repairs. Once you determine those costs, you’ll be able to determine a realistic budget.
Determine necessary repairs. Before you purchase that gorgeous Palm Springs real estate property, make sure you know exactly which repairs are necessary. The last thing you want to do is move in and discover that the plumbing doesn’t work and needs to be repaired immediately—it would add an immense amount of stress to the move. It will behoove you to schedule an inspection by a trusted source, and if the situation warrants, an appraisal. Point out all defects to the seller and require that repairs be made prior to closing or determine the costs of each and negotiate with the owner to deduct it from the asking price.
Search for hidden fees. Scour every page of your contracts and paperwork for any seemingly nominal fees and charges. Ask questions about each and look for valid explanations. The smaller charges can add up to hundreds of unexpected dollars.
If you’re ready to start looking at homes for sale in Indian Wells, click here to view our excellent listings.
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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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As many of us already know, buying your first home can be a complex and stressful process, whether you’re buying a beach condo, cabin in the mountains, or Indian Wells real estate. While it can definitely be intimidating, if you arm yourself with the right information, the entire process will become much easier, from negotiating prices to obtaining a mortgage. Before you start looking at Palm Springs homes for sale, gather as much information as possible, because when it comes to buying real estate, the old adage is true, knowledge is power.
Many first-time homebuyers find themselves in over their heads when it comes to securing a quality mortgage loan. Rather than focusing on the interest rate, make sure you’re paying attention to the actual cost of the loan, at present and what it will be in the future. Often times, it makes the most sense to have an attorney review the paperwork for you. Either way, make sure that you read the paperwork and all its fine print. If the interest rate is below market rates, make sure to inspect the contracts thoroughly—chances are that rate may only be guaranteed for a certain amount of time. No matter what, be certain that you are clear on what your responsibilities and rights are before signing anything.
When it comes to buying property, all homebuyers have their own unique situation and set of circumstances that the lender should take into consideration. Perhaps you only want to live in your new house for a few years, and then plan to take another step up. If so, a variable rate mortgage may be your best bet. Or maybe you’re looking at Palm Springs homes for sale purely for investment purposes, or you plan to live there for 20 years—if this is the case, then the stable monthly payment that a fixed rate mortgage provides may be the right choice for you. The bottom line—get all the information you can, so you can do what’s best for your situation.
Click here to browse listings of Indian Well real estate and the surrounding areas.
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Summer is officially here, which translates to myriad opportunities to explore the thriving arts and cultural communities in the Coachella Valley. If you’ve had your eye on homes for sale in Palm Springs or Indio real estate, this is a good time to visit and get a true feel for what goes on during the summer season in the desert cities. There are plenty of things to do while keeping your cool this summer, no matter what number the temperature reaches.
On Thursday, June 27 from 6 to 8 pm, the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum features a screening of The Fantastic World of Juan Orol at the Annenberg Theater. Mexico’s B-Movie master and “involuntary surrealist,” Juan Orol, is paid homage for his incredible career that spanned almost 50 films.
On Friday, June 28, the Band Europa will perform The Ultimate Santana Experience at the Morongo Casino. The renowned show takes place from 10:30 pm to 12:30 am.
On Saturday, June 29, The Show at Agua Caliente Casino hosts the Michael Jackson History Show II, the Ultimate Tribute featuring Kenny Wizz. This exciting performance takes place from 8 pm to 10 pm.
On Sunday, June 30, the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with a performance of Yes To You… A Tribute to Alice Faye starring Nicole Dillenberg. The vibrant musical theater production takes place from 2 pm to 4 pm at the Arthur Newman Theatre. An original one-woman show, this creative tribute explores the life and career of Alice Faye. Faye was America’s sweetheart during her years starring onscreen in Fox musicals of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Dillenberg is joined by Musical Director Bryan Miller on the piano.
If the broad spectrum of events inspires you to move to the desert cities, click here to view listings of Indio real estate and beyond.
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There are a ton of ways to beat the heat this week in Palm Springs, and some especially great ones for film buffs and fans of live performances! If you’re in town looking at international real estate or Palm Springs homes for sale, or if you need to unwind after a hard day at work or just want to do something unique, there’s a film festival, a cutting-edge performance and the Summer Film Series to keep you occupied.
From June 18 – 24, the Palm Springs International ShortFest is in full swing. Sponsored by the Palm Springs International Film Society, this annual festival features a special selection of short films, from a wide array of genres that tell an equally diverse range of stories. From sibling tales of relationships and true stories from the front pages of news, to romance, road trips and cautionary tales, there is something for every taste imaginable. Whether you’ve spent the day working, relaxing or considering listings for the international real estate market, you will have an amazing time at this film lover’s mecca.
On Wednesday, June 19 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm, the McCallum Theatre will host a Live Performance of MU: One Ocean, One World: A Fable for the 21st Century based on a Japanese legend. A work in progress that is slated to premiere in September 2013, this event is part of the McCallum Theatre Institute’s 2013 Summer Session Festival. The performance tells the story of a lonely young man who rescues a Mermaid and journeys to the Land of the Dragon Queen at the bottom of the sea.
On Thursday, June 20, the Summer Film Series at the Palm Springs Art Museum continues with a screening of Cairo 678. This compelling film tells the tale of three Cairene women from different backgrounds who band together in volatile solidarity to combat the sexual harassment that each has endured. The screening takes place at the Annenberg Theater from 6 pm to 8 pm.
There is always something going on in the desert Oasis of Coachella Valley. Click here to see listings of stunning Palm Springs homes for sale.
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Having good photos of Indian Wells real estate, equestrian homes and other Palm Springs homes for sale is critical to fostering interest in the land you’re trying to sell. In this day and age, people want to use the internet to check out potential leads, rule out what they know isn’t going to work for them in advance and get excited about those listings that are within their parameters. This is why it’s essential to post the best photos you can find to populate your online listing.
Since many sellers don’t want to spend the time and money hiring a professional real estate photographer, they often take photos for their listing themselves. If this is your plan, then you’ll need to optimize your photography skills to give your listing what it needs to attract the largest amount of prospective buyers. Your Indian Wells real estate property may be absolutely stunning, but if your photos don’t display it in the best light or show off its greatest features, buyers may not see its potential. When it comes to large scale properties, such as ranches or equestrian homes, it’s even more important to show off as much of the land as you can.
Luckily, we’ve created this blog series to provide some easy yet effective techniques for photographing real estate. Here are some basics to get you started on photographing the interior of your home:
- It’s all about the angles. When it comes to showing off your home’s angles, more is more. You want to show buyers as much of the interior as possible. Move around and shoot from different angles so you can find the most flattering ones when you go through the pictures. You can highlight a house’s best features and hide any weaknesses simply by changing positions.
- Back it up. Squeeze yourself into a doorway, corner or wherever you can best position the camera to show off as much of the room as possible. Shooting from the middle of the room is probably not going to give you what you need.
- Invest in a tripod. There are actually many inexpensive quality options available, and using one will let you get excellent steady shots that you may miss or ruin when using a handheld camera.
- Get straight. To get the best shots, focus your camera straight on, as opposed to at an incline.
That should get you started in the right direction for taking some stellar photos. In the meantime, you can get started looking for your own dream property! Click here to view listings of Palm Springs homes for sale.
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Beijing Flickers will screen this weekend at the Palm Spring Art Museum
Palm Springs is filled with cool cultural activities taking place this weekend. When you’re done relaxing by the pool, you can round out your day with one of the wide array of film screenings happening all weekend long. The cutting-edge AMFM Fest celebrates independent filmmakers and talented DJs with an Opening Night Gala, live music, art shows and screenings all weekend long. Whether you’re in town checking out the international real estate market or luxury properties in La Quinta or Indian Wells, you’ll be inspired by the creative vibe at this unique event.
In addition to the innovative films showing at AMFM, the Summer Film Series at Palm Springs Art Museum features Beijing Flickers this Friday, June 13 from 6 to 8 pm. Directed by Zhang Yuan, Beijing Flickers tells the story of San Bao, a young man down on his luck after losing his job, dog, apartment and girlfriend, yet finds moments of euphoria amid his own despair, while roaming with the dregs of society. The annual Summer Film Series is a component of the Palm Spring Art Museum’s free community programming, and a favorite among those who own properties in La Quinta, Indian Wells and all the other cities in Palm Springs. The screening takes place at the Annenberg Theater.
On Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15 the Annenberg Theater will host live performances of Sleeping Beauty and Alice in Wonderland, presented by Desert Dance. In their tenth year running at the Palm Springs Art Museum, these performances are perfect for the entire family to enjoy.
The incredible cast of talented dancers fuse classical and contemporary dance in an unforgettable production. The show takes place from 8 to 10 pm.
If you’re in town checking out luxury properties in the international real estate market, click here to browse some amazing listings.
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May was National Moving Month—did you sell your property in Palm Springs, La Quinta or Indio last month? Or did you finally buy that gorgeous piece of Rancho Mirage real estate you’ve been eyeing? If so, you’re probably not that excited about the daunting tasks you face in the execution of the big move. Here are some tips to make things a little bit smoother and less stressful, based on a move that’s one month out. If you have more time, then it will be even easier! Good luck!
- A month out. It’s time to get organized and start taking care of the little things. Schedule your change of address forms online—you can do this in advance so you don’t have to worry about it later. Notify magazine subscriptions of your address change and give termination dates to all your service providers, such as electricity, cable, gas, water, etc. You may even want to let your friends and family know that you’ve found that dream property in Palm Springs and will be moving soon, and provide your new address. Now is also a great time to research moving companies.
- Three weeks to go. De-clutter and take inventory. Start going through all your things and throwing away those items that you haven’t used in awhile or are in not-so-new condition. Take inventory of the items you plan to keep and make a list that includes their value. Schedule your moving services and get down to business.
- Two weeks. Packing time. Buy your boxes, packing tape and other materials now and get started with the oh-so-pleasant task of packing. The more organized you are as you pack, the easier it will be to find everything when you unpack.
- One week left. Set aside your valuables that you don’t want to include in the moving truck. This is also a good time to clean or schedule a cleaning crew to come in and clean.
- The day of. Do a walk through to make sure you haven’t left anything. Turn off the lights, lock up everything and say goodbye.
If you haven’t found that dream home or the Rancho Mirage real estate you’ve been looking for, click here to browse some amazing listings.
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There’s a lot in store this week in Palm Springs, especially for foodies and wine lovers. Whether you’re a novice or aficionado, are a longtime resident or are just now looking at Indio real estate and homes for sale in Palm Springs and, you’ll have an amazing time guaranteed.
Wednesday, May 29 and Thursday, May 30 mark an exciting part of Palm Springs Desert Resorts Restaurant Week—Uncorked! During this two night culinary event, a number of participating restaurants offer fun specialty-themed dinners, pairing every course with a different wine, beer, or spirit for a multifaceted culinary event.
The annual “Uncorked” event whets the appetites of diners and gets everyone excited for Restaurant Week, which is held from May 31-June 16 this year. If you’re currently looking at homes for sale in Palm Springs, this is the perfect way to finish up a busy day of house hunting. The stellar lineup of restaurants participating in Uncorked include Circa 59 at The Riviera, IC North Course Restaurant at the Indian Canyons Golf Resort, Copley’s on Palm Canyon, King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Las Casuelas Terraza, Spencer’s and Tinto at The Saguaro Palm Springs.
Prices for the Uncorked event range between $45-$85 per person. Space fills up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended. For more information on Uncorked and other events, visit the Palm Springs Restaurant Week website.
On Thursday, May 30 from 7:30 to 9 pm, the Concerts in the Park series continues with a very cool U2 Tribute Band, L.A.vation. Located at the popular Palm Desert Civic Center Park Amphitheater, this concert series is the perfect way to enjoy live music under the stars with family and friends. Sponsored by the City of Palm Desert, the event is free to the public.
Click here to view some inspiring listings of Indio real estate.
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The Memorial Day Flower Drop at the Palm Springs Air Museum
We have a lot of exciting things going on this Memorial Day weekend. If you’re interested in checking out Palm Springs homes for sale, then this may is the perfect weekend to do so!
On Friday, May 24 at the JJ&A Pop Up Gallery, there will be an evening of Exposed Soul, Live Art, Jazz and Sangria, featuring live art from Demar Douglas, along with works by Jeff Ingram and Chris Redman, accompanied by some lovely Jazz. The event will featuring works by Tyree Jessie, sculptures by Snake Jagger and some awesome Sangria! 20 percent of all sales will be donated to the Desert Aids Project. The show runs from 6 to 9 pm and the gallery is located in Palm Springs at 687 North Palm Canyon, Suite A on the first floor.
On Saturday, May 25, the legendary band, The Guess Who, will perform at the Spotlight 29 Casino from 8 to 10 pm.
On Sunday, May 26, the Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series 2013 continues with Abrams Sings Abrams: Jan Abrams Sings The Victor Abrams Songbook at the Arthur Newman Theatre.
from 2 to 4 pm. Also on Sunday, May 26, from 6 to 8 pm, there will be A Palm Springs Tribute to Liberace, a fun-filled evening and party at the location of Behind the Candelabra in Palm Springs, with special guest star actress and longtime friend of Liberace, Debbie Reynolds.
On Monday, May 27, a favorite of residents and those who own homes in Palm Desert takes place—the Annual Memorial Day Flower Drop at the Palm Springs Air Museum. This very special memorial includes a fly-by and flower drop of over 3,000 red and white carnations from a B-25 Mitchell. The Memorial Program and Flower Drop are scheduled for 1 pm.
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