There are many reasons why Palm Springs homes for sale are in such demand—and one is that Coachella Valley is filled with diverse cultural and entertainment, from Stagecoach and the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival to the Palm Springs International Film Festival and the AMFM Fest, which takes place this Thursday, June 13 through Sunday, June 16.
What sets AMFM apart from other film festivals is that it features the independent artists, the ones who establish trends and define modern culture. These independent thinkers tend to create authentic works that often become catalysts for societal change—and are pretty compelling and entertaining as well.
Owners of real estate in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta and beyond are lucky enough to enjoy close proximity to Cathedral City, which is the location of AMFM. Long considered a desert oasis, the entire region has been popular among artists, celebrities and politicians for nearly a century. With a past that includes a reputation as a haven during 1920 prohibition, a playground for the elite Hollywood crowd such as the Rat Pack, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall and Marilyn Monroe during the 1950s and 1960s, through the vast arts and cultural activities that go on today, Coachella Valley is the perfect location for this incredible festival.
This week, AMFM will contribute to the rich history of the arts in Coachella Valley. The VIP Opening night Gala will feature live music and a gallery showcasing the work of Robert Zkerman, Craig Semetko, Dan Eldon, and Viggo Mortensen, among many others. The film screenings begins Friday, and there are many musical events to round out the event. Owners of real estate in Palm Desert, Indian Wells and La Quinta are thrilled to have such an event take place in the desert cities.
The AMFM festival is produced by Film 4 Change, an organization of people who believe that films can change the world.
Click here to browse listings of Palm Springs homes for sale.
image: amfmfest.com
More
The Crazy Horse Ranch offers a great way to spend the da
Every year, visitors come to California for a vacation or with the goal of making an international real estate transaction, only to discover what natives refer to as “June gloom.” The term refers to the cloudy, overcast skies coupled with lower temperatures that characterize late spring and early summer in southern California. This interesting weather condition is caused by the marine layer effect, and often is accompanied by fog and drizzle. Those who own Palm Desert real estate get to enjoy the sun nearly year ‘round, and therefore, don’t experience June gloom. In fact, a lot of visitors and tourists hit the Palm Springs Valley looking to enjoy some summer fun.
Below are two fun and exciting ways that visitors, residents and owners of Palm Desert real estate find to enjoy the beautiful Coachella Valley during June and all summer long.
Take a ride on a crazy horse. How does taking a relaxing sunset ride on horseback through gorgeous mountain views sound to you? Perfect for adults and children alike, the Crazy Horse Ranch offers trail rides, riding lessons, horse boarding and camps for adults and children, in addition to providing horse rescue services. Crazy Horse Ranch also offers private moonlight horse rides, with the option to include a ranch style BBQ dinner.
Take a ride on the tram. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a great way to cool down while taking in the stunning, picturesque views of the entire Coachella Valley. Composing the largest rotating tramcar in the world, two 80-passenger, enclosed cars ascend approximately 5,873 feet for a breathtaking journey up the cliffs of Chino Canyon. It’s extremely cool up there due to the higher altitude—so much so that there is sometimes still snow on the mountain peaks, even this late in the season.
Click here to browse listings if you’re interested in making an international real estate transaction in Palm Springs.
image: crazyhorseranch.biz
More
Short sales can be much more complicated than average real estate transactions, which is why it’s important to work with an experienced short sale realtor. Navigating this type of transaction can be tricky, so working with someone you feel comfortable with is fundamental to making the process smooth and less stressful, whether the sale involves Indio real estate, a country club La Quinta real estate property or a beach home in another area of the country.
As with any normal real estate transaction, a short sale realtor will list the home, complete all relevant paperwork, manage offers and close the deal. In addition, there are other integral aspects that they will handle for you. A short sale realtor will negotiate with your lenders to ensure that your property is valuated accurately and manage many other duties that are intricate and exclusive to short sale packages.
You’ll want to make sure that your realtor has expertise specific to these types of transactions, and if, for example, the deal involves an Indio real estate property, that they have experience in that region, as well as local contacts. These two factors will significantly improve your chances of a quick and successful sale.
When choosing who you’re going to work with, make sure to look at their track record to see what their past results have been. How many short sales have they closed in the last two years? While market experience is important, if they have little expertise in short sales, they may not be able to achieve what you need them to. Ask to see a list of recent short sale approvals and the amount of debt forgiven, as well as some sample approval letters.
A local realtor will also be able to close a deal more quickly than one who is not well-versed in the area. For example, if the deal involves a La Quinta real estate property and you choose a realtor that has familiarity in the region, they will have relationships in place and will already be working with buyers interested in homes in the area. This will increase chances of a sale and make the entire process much easier.
More
It is intriguing to me how few people, both locals and seasonal visitors, who are aware that the Palm Springs Valley is home to two of the largest polo clubs in the United States! We are second only to Florida in numbers of fields and players and the economic boost the polo world brings to the Valley every season.
The two Polo Clubs, Eldorado and Empire are contiguous to each other and between them have approximately 22 active polo fields! That’s alot of land because each polo field is about the size of 9 football fields..or 300 yards by 150 yards for each field. Imagine having that wonderful, open venue in our beautiful Valley!
Eldorado Polo Club schedule and contact info..
Empire Polo Club schedule and contact info..
Trailers full of horses have started arriving to both clubs. Horses are conditioned rigorously and in a timely manner so that they “peak” at the time of their owner’s tournament schedule. Games commence for monthly league play the first weekend of January and continue through Mid April.
People have a crazy notion of polo..that all players are rich and snooty and that “regular” folks aren’t welcomed at the Sunday matches..which are open to the public and a beautiful and unusual way to spend your Sunday afternoon. Nothing is further from the truth. Polo players come in all shapes, sizes, sexes, income levels and ages.
To be a traveling professional is hugely expensive and very hard work. The horses must be fed, cleaned, galloped, trained, fussed over every single day..all day. Most pros have one or two grooms that help to manage the horses and prepare them for their rigorous game play. Remember that grooms and their families and players and their families require housing, shop at our local stores, stay in our local hotels…hence the economic boost the sport brings to the East Valley.
The Sponsors of the game, ARE wealthy individuals. They literally “sponsor” the professionals..meaning they pay them to play for them and compete on their teams. Without them there would BE no polo (or horse jumping either for that matter)..remember the economy. I must say..the sponsors I played for and engage with now are usually lovely people that are so grateful to have the money and time to compete. Most of them work during the week and compete on weekends..it is a consuming sport and lifestyle and often the entire family is involved.
As for watching a game? Come on out! Everyone is welcome. Entry fees are nominal and the announcers help you to understand what is happening on the field. Polo is a truly unique event that our Valley has to offer..take advantage of it if you visit the Palm Springs Valley this season!
More
Canadians and taxes; be on top of it!
If you’re Canadian and are thinking about buying property in our beautiful winter wonderland here in the desert..or anywhere else USA, read this. Still a great investment strategy for your portfolio, but always super wise to consult your tax professional, get the required docs in Canada and USA so you know what to expect!
Buying in the Palm Springs Valley is a dream for many foreigners. Our warm winters are not to be beat. Golfing, hiking, biking, swimming, shopping, dining outside in the middle of winter, strolling the local art galleries, heading out to cabazon for some killer designer shopping..whatever. There is no reason NOT to buy a winter investment home here in the desert, but be smart. Consult your CPA or tax attorney first!
If you’re feeling shaky? The BIG BOYS are buying investment homes in bulk..that should be some comfort!
More
RANCHO MIRAGE – If you live in the Palm Springs Valley, then you have likely heard of Clancy Lane – a well-known street connecting Bob Hope Drive with Monterey Avenue. This is an area rich in its equestrian and agricultural heritage. Some of our valley’s most well-heeled and sophisticated residents now make their homes in the Clancy Lane neighborhood, which includes some exclusive gated communities as well.
Clancy Lane boasts some interesting history harkening back to the 1920s and before. From Civil War until the early 1920s, travelers passed through Rancho Mirage on the Bradshaw Trail (what is now Highway 111) on their way to Yuma. As early as 1924, the area’s promotion began with the purchase of hundreds of acres of land from Southern Pacific Railroad by Bert Davie and E.E. McIntyre. Davie, from Michigan, was an ardent promoter upon seeing the flourishing date groves at nearby Wonder Palms Ranch. He then built a ranch house at Clancy Lane and built a north-south thoroughfare connecting his ranch to the Bradshaw Trail and named it Rio del Sol, which later became Bob Hope Drive.
In 1932, Clancy Lane’s namesake Les Clancy, built a home in the development after arriving in the area with his wife and brother. He was the first of the gentlemen farmers to build here. Hailing from Santa Monica, the area actually became known as “Little Santa Monica.” In the tradition of earlier settlers of the Palm Springs area, the Clancy’s built an adobe on their property and planted it up with grapes, dates and grapefruits.
Today, Clancy Lane attracts equestrians and residents seeking ideal location with the utmost of privacy. Currently, homes in the Clancy Lane area go for approx. $500,000 to $3,500,000. It’s a unique area, close to The River, Eisenhower Medical Center, many championship golf courses, Palm Desert’s fashionable El Paseo shopping district and so much more.
If you are interesting in finding out more about available Clancy Lane properties, call Kim Kelly with HK Lane Real Estate. She will gladly tour you about the neighborhood and show you the highly desirable properties for sale in this historic and interesting part of the Palm Springs Valley.
More
Not to fear . . . despite budget restraints in the cities that make up our Palm Springs Valley here, there will still be fireworks to top off your Independence Day celebration !!!
On the east end of the valley, in La Quinta, there will be a Parade of Lights tomorrow at 6pm, with fireworks starting at 9pm. Both will be held at the La Quinta Community Center Park at 77-865 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta. The events are free; for more info, call 760-777-7035
In mid-valley at Palm Desert, there will be live music starting at 7:30pm with fireworks following at dark – at Palm Desert Civic Center Park, 73-510 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. The events are free; for more info, call 760-346-0611, ext. 416
On the west end in Palm Springs, there are fireworks scheduled at 9:15pm at the Palm Springs Stadium at 1901 E. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs. For more info, call 760-323-8272
Everyone have a fun and safe Fourth of July !!!
More
Why is Old Town La Quinta such a destination for vacationers and residents alike??? The answer is simple . . . it’s quaint, it has charm, it’s not just a line of squared-off cookie cutter buildings with no soul. Au contraire . . . Old Town La Quinta has plenty of soul. It’s picturesque Main Street is lined with shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes and sets the stage for outdoor concerts, art shows, seasonal activities and a weekly organic Farmers Market.
Old Town has fountains, benches, winding streets and a green lawn area . . . all of which invite you to stay awhile. Once there, you’ll surely want to take in some good food and refreshment to complete your Old Town experience. Here are several establishments you will surely want to try:
- The Grill on Main – Relaxed, casual atmosphere, Classic American Fare, specialty micro-brews, an interesting wine list and full bar. Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Weekend Brunch served on Sat. & Sun.; Live Music every Fri. & Sat. night. Located at 78065 Main St., Suite 104
- Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill – A friendly, fun place for the finest pizza from their woodfired oven, along with tempting small plates, fresh salads, sandwiches and pasta. Their bar is a great place to meet friends or unwind watching the game, or you can enjoy a meal on our patio with great mountain views! Located at 78-015 Main St., Suite #100
- Solano’s Bistro – Recently moved to Old Town, this fabulous restaurant changes seasonally, offering fresh seafood, steak chicken and pasta for lunch, bar and dinner menus – along with beer, wine and a full-bar. Patio dining. Located at 78-075 Main St.
- Old Town Coffee Company – A favorite place for locals and visitors alike to hang out, people watch, dog watch, etc. But most important is their exceptional coffee brewed to order, fresh baked goods and light food. Their motto is ‘Where Good Friends meet Great Coffee.’ Located at 78-100 Main St., Suite #102
- Hog’s Breath Inn – It’s sister restaurant is in Carmel, serving specialty entrees and fresh seafood in a comfortable dining room and patio with outstanding views. Memorabilia from Clint Eastwood’s legendary movie career makes for a fun atmosphere, popular for lunch and dinner. Located at 78-065 Main St., Suite #200
- The Wine Bar at Old Town – Offering over 200 wines from around the world in their retail shop and 15-20 wines by the glass, any bottle from their retail shop, plus a number of micro-brew beers. A small friendly menu is available to accompany your wine selection. Located at 78-015 Main St., Suite #109
- Cool Options -Featuring all natural gelato and sorbetto – delicious and intense flavors made fresh with raw ingredients, no artificial additives or unhealthy fat; all natural sugar-free ice cream, homemade gelato pies, smoothies, Izze Italian sodas, etc. Located at 78-010 Main Street, Suite #108
So there you have it . . . there is no lack of fun and delicious dining experiences in Old Town La Quinta . . . from morning until night. See you there . . . and Bon Appetit !!!
More
la quinta cove short sale APPROVED!
Another Palm Springs Valley Short Sale approved! I list, work and CLOSE my Short Sales.
51835 Avenida Alvarado La Quinta, CA. 92253
Approximate note value: $385,000 Only one note. Seller suffering illness, but exceptional at getting me any docs requested.
Listed at $148,000. Reduced to $135,000 and accepted by Lender at that price. Lender was Carrington Mortgage, LLC and they were fantastic to deal with.
Out of pocket Cost to Seller: Zero
Out of pocket Cost to Buyer: Zero (sure, the purchase price of the house, but nothing above that!)
Out of pocket cost to Agents: Zero
If you are looking for help with your underwater mortgage, or simply doing your investigative work, give me a call at 760-285-3578. I am experienced and short sale certified and consultations are FREE! Happy to talk to you.
More
Madison Estates is making a come back !!! This sprawling gated community located at Avenue 49 and Madison Street, one block east of Jefferson Street in the Vista Santa Rosa area of Indio, was originally designed to be a highly sought after address in our desert area. Construction began on nine well-appointed luxury homes, then going for $1,200,000 to $1,600.000. When the real estate market tanked and the development was stalled, these beautifully designed and well-thought out homes sat idle.
Ridgeback Partners, a real estate brokerage and management team, now own Madison Estates and are getting this upscale community back on its feet. The current owners recognize the value of the community’s location and original intent . . . and also that the market has changed since it first broke ground. Ridgeback Partners selected Family Development as the building team to finish out the nine original custom-quality homes. . . . and they’re priced at half of what they originally went for, starting at $600,000. Family Development has purchased 46 unfinished lots at Madison Estates, so there will be more grand homes to come.
Madison Estates’ homes are built in Tuscan, Spanish, Colonial and Mission styles, with each residence featuring more than 4,000sf of living space on half acre lots. There are many custom amenities and ugrades, including full landscaping, pool and spa are also included with these homes.
The downturn of the economy has an upturn . . . the luxurious and upscale homes in Madison Estates are now offering “Twice the Luxury at Half the Price.”
More
