Boz Scaggs performs at the McCallum Theatre on Tuesday
Today, we kick off President’s Day with some more of the gorgeous weather that the Coachella Valley is famous for—and that draws so many buyers to view Palm Springs homes for sale. The active social calendar in the desert cities is in full swing, so if you’re thinking about buying Indian Wells real estate or property in another part of the area, now is a great time to come see what we’re all about.
On Monday, February 17 from 7 to 9 pm, the McCallum Theatre will host an amazing way to celebrate President’s Day: Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel. This beautiful concert will feature the great melodies of Franz Schubert, including classic waltzes, impromptus and the radiant Sonata in A Major.
On Tuesday, February 18 from 8 to 10, Simon Johnson will perform at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church. Mr. Johnson, the Organist and Assistant Director of Music at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, was scheduled to close the Desert Friends of Music 2012-2013 series with a concert on April 16 last year. However, when Great Britain’s former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher passed away, Mr. Johnson was called back to participate in the funeral at St. Paul’s. Now Palm Springs will have another chance to witness this amazing organ soloist in action. What an excellent way to unwind and absorb some culture after a day of work or looking at Palm Springs homes for sale. A champagne reception follows the concert. Tickets are $20 at the door.
Also on Tuesday from 8 to 10 pm, Grammy-award winning singer and songwriter, Boz Scaggs, will perform some of his popular hits such as “Lowdown” and “Lido Shuffle” at the McCallum Theatre. Starting on Wednesday, February 19 and running through Friday, February 21, the Indio Performing Arts Center will host a live performance of Just Let Me Vent. The show, which offers a glimpse of comedy, magic and ventriloquism, was voted Grand Prize Winner and Audience Favorite at the 2011 McCallum Theater Institute open call.
Click here to see some fabulous listings of Indian Wells real estate and homes in other parts of the Coachella Valley.
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Every once in a while, a buyer is lucky enough to find two Palm Springs homes for sale that they are serious about. Rare as this is, when it does happen, making the final decision can be difficult, especially when there is a spouse or other family member involved. It’s a decision that requires much thought and should not be led by emotion.
In this type of scenario, where you may be choosing between buying a home in Rancho Mirage or purchasing Indio real estate, it really helps to make a comprehensive list of all the pros and cons of each property. Read on for a few recommendations of things to consider.
The amenities. Make a list of all the attributes and amenities that are on your wish list and determine which ones are deal breakers. For example, if a swimming pool or large back yard are must-haves, then those are deal breakers and should be listed at the top. Then list which each of the Palm Springs a homes for sale you are considering features. Sometimes when you see the list on paper, there may be a sizeable difference as to which property includes more amenities. Do the same with the cons associated with each home.
The neighborhoods. If you are looking at two properties in completely different neighborhoods, make another list of the pros and cons. Are you looking for a tight-knit community? Do you have young children that like to play outside? Or are you retirees looking for a laidback neighborhood of likeminded people? You’ll also want to consider how well the streets are maintained, what the safety rating is, and if you’re religious, whether there is a church close by.
Appreciation. If you’re deciding between buying a home in La Quinta or Indio real estate, it may help to know how the houses in the neighborhood have been appreciating. Ask your realtor to obtain information regarding the sales of homes in the area over the past few years to see if one area is appreciating significantly better than the other.
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If you’re looking for La Quinta real estate that epitomizes desert living at its finest, Palmilla is a luxury community you won’t want to miss. Featuring boldly designed homes set among eight acres of shimmering lakes, lush landscaping and original metal sculptures, this desert oasis makes the most of the region’s natural beauty and gorgeous weather.
This award-winning community is defined by the exclusivity each home provides, with intimate courtyards and spacious covered patios that provide a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors. This offers homeowners an array of entertaining options and a wonderful respite to enjoy the vibrant colors of the deserts, the picturesque mountain views and unique calming waterways of the community that sets this development apart from other La Quinta real estate.
Upon entering Palmilla, you pass by the beautiful artwork garden and handcrafted gates created by famed Southwest sculptor, Joe Tyler, through a distinctive portal with water features flanking it that takes you into a new, relaxing world. The homeowners in the community are diverse and interesting, 50 percent of whom are full-time residents. They include everyone from prominent local business owners to professional athletes and award-winning Hollywood producers. The homes offer unique features from rich woods, tiled floors and stone fireplace to coffered ceilings, slab granite and more. It makes perfect sense that this area is in demand among buyers looking for Palm Springs homes for sale.
Palmilla has garnered several awards over the years, including the “Best Single-family Detached Community in the U.S.” from the U.S. Builder’s Choice and the 2005 Honor Award for Design presented by the American Society of Landscape Architects, as well as four prestigious architectural awards, including “Best in American Living Award” and “Best Designed Homes in the Nation,” from a competition sponsored by Professional Builder magazine and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Palmillla is a must-see for those on the search for Palm Springs homes for sale.
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The Andrews Brothers production starts this weekend
Are you in town to look at Palm Springs homes for sale? Are you visiting family or friends who are lucky enough to live in the Coachella Valley? Or are you a local looking to unwind this weekend? It doesn’t matter which category you fall under—there is something fun or relaxing to do in Palm Springs Valley this weekend. Our last post covered some of the art, theater and other entertainment options taking place this weekend, and since the Grammys are happening Sunday, we thought we would share some information about the legendary music performances taking place here this weekend. You’ll be so excited about the lineup, you may start looking for Rancho Mirage real estate, even if you didn’t plan on it.
On Friday, January 24, the legendary Dolly Parton will perform at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino. A singer/songwriter, author and actress, Ms. Parton is the most honored female country performer of all time, with 25 RIAA certified gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards. In addition, she had 25 number one songs on the Billboard Country charts, which is a record for a female artist, and 41 career top 10 country albums, a record for all musical artists. Located at 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, The Show at Agua Caliente Casino is a favorite of all locals and owners of Rancho Mirage real estate, as it brings some of the highest caliber of musical talent to its stage. The concert takes place from 9 to 11.
The Andrews Brothers, A Madcap Musical Salute to the Swinging ’40s, begins its run this Friday at the Annenberg Theater. Created by Roger Bean, this dynamic musical theater production tells the story of three stagehands who save A USO show when a famous trio of singing sisters fails to make their appearance. The musical features classic favorites, including “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Slow Boat to China” and “Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive.” The show continues through Sunday, February 16.
On Saturday, January 25, Singing the Birds: Bird Song & Dance Festival will take place at the Palm Springs High School Auditorium from 11 am to 8 pm. This one-of-a-kind festival celebrates the Native culture and tribes of southern California and other areas of the Southwest with music, dance and honored bird singers. Native crafts and food vendors will be in attendance. Admission and parking are free. On Saturday night, the iconic Morris Day & The Time and Sheila E. will perform at the Spotlight 29 Casino from 8 to 10 pm.
If the musical lineup inspires you to look at homes in the area, click here to view listings of Palm Springs homes for sale.
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Many buyers consider the Coachella Valley to be an ideal destination for spending their golden years, which is one of the reasons why Palm Springs homes for sale and Rancho Mirage real estate are in such demand. There are many aspects to factor into the decision making process—therefore, it’s very important to consider them all as soon as you start searching for properties.
Once you decide whether you plan to rent or buy, you’ll need to think about what’s most important to you. Do you mind having younger families living in the vicinity or would you prefer a community specifically designed for retirement? Would you like to become a part of a vibrant community with access to recreational activities and an active social calendar, or do you prefer a more secluded environment? The good news is, there are Palm Springs homes for sale that fit into almost every category you can think of.
In addition to the community style you prefer, you’ll want to determine which features are most important to you. Would you prefer a one story home or are you comfortable with traveling up and down staircases? Do you want a master bathroom with a deep-set Jacuzzi to relax in or does the ease of a walk-in shower have a greater appeal?
Landscaping and maintenance are other important features to consider. If you have a green thumb and gardening is a favorite hobby, it may make sense to manage your own landscaping. On the flip side, if you consider maintenance and landscaping tasks a chore, you may want to find Rancho Mirage real estate in a gated community with an HOA that manages those aspects.
If you love the great outdoors, you may want to find a property with easy access to parks, walking trails or a swimming pool. Or if you’re a golf or tennis aficionado, you may want to ensure that you’re in close proximity to some of the championship golf courses or world class tennis courts, such as the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, that are in the area.
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If you’re an art lover and are interested in Palm Springs homes for sale, this is the perfect weekend for you to visit the desert cities. There is an array of art festivals and offerings that will blow your mind and let you experience the thriving arts community firsthand and see exactly why Palm Springs was dubbed the birthplace of Western Chic.
Friday, January 17 through Sunday, January 19, the Palm Springs Arts Festival will be in full effect with 175 of the best traditional and contemporary artists hailing from the West, Southwest and across the globe.
If you’re interested in Indio real estate, you should be sure to check out the One Voice musical festival at the Indio Performing Arts Center. The season just started and features the Las Vegas award-winning show by Bethany, who was twice votes the “Best Female Voice Impressionist.” The show pays zany homage to celebrity personalities via entertaining musical voice impressions.
On Friday, January 17 from 7 to 9, the Indian Wells Theater at CSUSB in Palm Desert will host a performance of the musical, I Do! I Do! starring husband and wife team, Joyce Bulifant and Roger Perry. The show is based on the award-winning musical “The Fourposter” by Jan de Hartog.
The perfect way to take a break from hunting for Palm Springs homes for sale is to hit the Desert Arts Festival at Frances Stevens Park, which will be happening Saturday, January 18 through Sunday, January19. Presented by West Coast Artists, this show offers an eclectic array of amazing works that will satisfy anyone from the novice to the avid collector. The works featured at this innovative show range from genres including modern and contemporary to traditional and Southwestern art, with mediums that span the entire gamut. Whether you’re interested in oils, watercolors, mixed media or photography, you’ll find something you like at this amazing show. It just may inspire you to want to buy Indio real estate or property in one of the other desert cities as well!
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One of the draws for many visitors to the Palm springs area, whether they’re tourists, seeing family or in town to look at luxury properties for international real estate investments, is the Stars of Palm Springs—and we’re not just talking about the stunning display provided by the clear desert skies. Palm Springs has its own Walk of Stars, also known as the Golden Palm Stars, that pays homage to many of the Hollywood entertainers, celebrities and political figures who lived and played in the stunning Coachella Valley.
Located in downtown Palm Springs, the Walk of Stars is also a favorite attraction among locals and owners of Rancho Mirage real estate and homes in the other desert cities. Portions of Palm Canyon Drive, Museum Drive, Tahquitz Canyon Way and La Plaza Court and are where you can find the Golden Palm Stars embedded in the sidewalks. The tribute was established in 1992 by Barbara Foster-Henderson and Gerhard Frenzel, with the first five stars honoring William Powell, Charles Farrell, Ruby Keeler, Ralph Bellamy and Earle C. Strebe.
The Golden Palm Stars bear many similarities to the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. However, many other figures are paid tribute in Palm Springs, including those who frequented the area for relaxation or owned Palm Desert, La Quinta or Rancho Mirage real estate. These honorees include literary figures, civic leaders, humanitarians, Medal of Honor recipients and former Presidents of the United States.
Tourists and buyers in town who are interested in the international real estate market flock to this magical attraction to see names of some of the special honorees. Former Presidents Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan have stars, and some of the other well-known recipients include Shirley Temple, Elvis Presley, Clark Gable, Liberace, Bob Hope, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Sonny Bono, Rudolf Valentino, Buddy Rogers, Mary Pickford, Frank Sinatra, Ginger Rogers, Gene Autry, Al Jolson, Harold Lloyd, George Montgomery, Dinah Shore, Merv Griffin and Rich Little, among hundreds more.
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Winter in Palm Springs is always packed with a wide range of recreational activities, and this weekend is an excellent example. Whether you live in Indio, Palm Desert or own Indian Wells real estate, you’ll find exciting things to do that are just a short drive away.
On Friday, January 10 from 8 to 10 pm, the McCallum Theatre will feature Country Royalty, a musical tribute to two of the biggest legends of country music, Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. A live band accompanies Lost Highway star and 2003 Obie Award winner Jason Petty, who re-creates the role of Hank Williams, and Grammy-nominated singer Carolyn Martin as she pays homage to Patsy Cline.
On Saturday night, the world famous rapper, Snoop Dogg, will perform at the Fantasy Springs Casino from 8 to 10. To mix things up even more for locals and owners of Indian Wells real estate and the neighboring cities, on January 11 and 12, the McCallum Theatre hosts performances of Luis Bravo’s Broadway hit, Forever Tango. This one-of-a-kind show includes 14 world-class tango dancers, an 11 piece orchestra and more in a night of music, dance and culture from Argentina.
During the day on Saturday, there is much to do for locals and those in town to look at homes for sale in Palm Springs. The St. George 19th Annual Golf Tournament will be going on at the Classic Club Golf Course, and from 10 to 4 pm, Art Under the Umbrellas will be in full effect in the lovely and bucolic Old Town La Quinta. This art show is part of a series that take place on designated Saturdays, and features more than 70 artists representing the spectrum of styles and mediums.
If the thriving arts and culture community of this area appeals to you, click here to view some beautiful homes for sale in Palm Springs.
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This week marks the 25th anniversary of a favorite of all who own Palm Springs real estate: the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Founded by the beloved former mayor, Sonny Bono, who passed away in 1998, this incredible film festival is attended by renowned filmmakers, actors and film lovers from all over the world. If you’re visiting the Coachella Valley from abroad with your sights set on buying international real estate, you could not have picked a better time.
The acclaimed film festival takes place in the airport-hangar-sized Palm Springs Convention Center, and occurs each year during Oscar nomination balloting to promote a healthy turnout of attendees. This year, the celebrity attendance at the Opening Awards Gala on Saturday, January 4 was incredible. Tom Hanks came to receive the Chairman’s Award for Captain Phillips and Saving Mr. Banks, U2’s Bono came to accept an award for U2’s humanitarian work.
Other notables in attendance include Sandra Bullock, the iconic Meryl Streep, Bruce Dern, The Edge (U2’s guitarist), and the Dallas Buyers Club’s McConaughey, wearing a gold lamé dinner jacket that drew cheers. Several cast members from American Hustle accompanied director David O. Russell to accept the festival’s ensemble performance award, including Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner. As you can imagine, this was very exciting for audience members, especially visitors from abroad such as the many in town to view listings for the international real estate market.
The Palm Springs International Film Festival has earned the reputation for being one of the most prestigious in the country, and a true portal for the best in world cinema, featuring more than 180 films from over 70 countries—which is why more than 136,000 are so excited to attend each year, from tourists and Angelenos to locals who own Palm Springs real estate.
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Is your New Year’s resolution to sell your beach cottage, condominium in the city or La Quinta real estate? Many people make the decision to move forward during this time of year and if you’re thinking about putting your property on the market, there’s no better time than the present.
The process of preparing homes for sale in Palm Springs is the same as in any other market and usually begins months before sellers actually list the property. The first step is to find a real estate professional to help you navigate the often complex process—it should be someone you trust and will enjoy working with. When you find someone early in the process, they can give you great advice that will save you time, stress and money in the long run.
Once you’ve made the decision that this is the year to list your La Quinta real estate, you’ll want to determine what needs to be repaired or tweaked before you open it up for showings. Take a walk through while looking at your property through the eyes of a prospective buyer. This will help you assess what is too personalized, what needs to be discarded and which repairs are necessary. Your goal is to show the property in its best light and highlight its strongest features, while maximizing space. Start de-cluttering and depersonalizing as soon as possible to make room for any changes or repairs that need to be made.
You should also get clear on why you are selling. Listing homes for sale in Palm Springs or anywhere, for that matter, is a big step and should be motivated by a good reason, whether you’ve outgrown the current space, a member of the family has a new commute or the children have gone off to college. The reasons for selling can affect negotiations, so you will want to be clear on your own needs and share them with the realtor, so they factor them in to the process.
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