Real Estate Information

Existing-home sales rose for a third consecutive month, according to a January report by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Existing-home sales, which include recently purchased single family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops were up 5 percent from the previous month, to a seasonally adjusted rate of 4.61 million units. In total, 2011 existing-home sales were up 1.7 percent from 2010, and reached 4.26 million units sold.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, believes the trend could point to a sustained recovery. "The pattern of home sales in recent months demonstrates a market in recovery," he said. “Record low mortgage interest rates, job growth and bargain home prices are giving more consumers the confidence they need to enter the market."

National inventory for existing homes decreased by 9.2 percent in December, leaving 2.38 million units available for sale. This representing a 6.2 month supply of homes at today's current sales pace. Existing-home inventories have been shrinking from their record levels of 4.04 million set in July 2007.

NAR President Moe Veissi anticipates even more buyers in the near future. "The American dream of homeownership is alive and well. We have a large pent-up demand, and household formation is likely to return to normal as the job market steadily improves," he said. "More buyers coming into the market mean additional benefits for the overall economy. When people buy homes, they stimulate a lot of related goods and services."

Real Estate market update in La Quinta CA

Rob Zwemmer and Associates, a division of Luxury Homes by Keller Williams Realty of La Quinta, is sponsoring in conjunction with the Olive Crest Academy of the Coachella Valley, a day trip to Disneyland for a selected group of students. The trip will take place on Wednesday, March 21. The principal of Olive Crest selected the school’s top scholastic achievers, and those who have shown the most improvement in their studies. The students range in age from 12 to 17 years.

“We hope to create some happy and lasting memories for these exceptional kids of Olive Crest Academy,” stated Rob Zwemmer. “In addition to the Disneyland day trip, we are asking our vendors to donate money to further benefit the Academy. We are hoping to raise enough funds to provide for the students a scholarship, various school supplies and possibly a laptop.”

Mr. Zwemmer is currently developing a website in order to generate the donations, that link will be released in the coming days.

Olive Crest Academy is a tuition-free charter school dedicated to offering students an academic alternative to traditional classes. It is based on the Early College High School Initiative supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Rob Zwemmer and Associates are proud to be a contributing part of their efforts. Olive Crest’s programs are designed to promote a culture of high academic performance, encouraging logical and critical thinking. There are school locations in La Quinta, Palm Desert and throughout Southern California, the Southwest and Pacific Northwest.

Visit Rob Zwemmer and Associate's site for more information on Real Estate in La Quinta and surrounding areas.

Visit Olive Crest's site for more information on the great work Olive Crest does for at-risk kids.

365 Things to Do in Palm Springs

Vicky’s of Santa Fe

 For over 20 years Vicky’s of Santa Fe has offered a welcoming live jazz supper club experience enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Not only is the service impeccable, but the menu is comprehensive with a host of appetizers, entrees, desserts and an impressive wine list. A few of the delicacies include the center-cut veal chops, New Zealand rack of lamb, and their signature seafood dishes, and comfort-food favorites such as liver and onions and chicken pot pie. Top it off with their Snicker bar, homemade apple pie, Vicky’s cupcake or chocolate fudge, and you really have an evening to remember. Speaking of remembering… everyone’s favorite standards and hits are serenaded around the gigantic grand piano. Appetizers include fish tacos, spinach artichoke dip, ginger shrimp and chicken skewers, and beef sliders—just a few of the treats that make Vicky’s bar and piano lounge truly amazing. The atmosphere is completed by the dramatic charm of adobe architecture with cozy fireplaces and several small seating areas. Come as you are in desert or golf casual, or dressed up to the nines… you are welcome at Vicky’s of Santa Fe, the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy timeless music and classic food in a casual, yet upscale setting.

Vicky’s of Santa Fe
45-100 Club Dr.
Indian Wells
760-345-9770

vickysofsantafe.com

Fixing Your Credit Score

 It’s important to check your credit report at least once a year and assess what actions to take when discovering your score is in need of improvement. Credit-reporting agencies calculate your 3-digit FICO score based on these weighted factors: payment history (35 percent of score), the total you owe creditors (up to 30 percent of score), the length of your credit history (15 percent of score), any newly established credit accounts and the type of credit and loans you have (10 percent of score). Your credit score is a reflection of how you manage your payments and finances over a period of time. If you have a high credit score, you are, naturally, viewed more favorably and offered better financing rates when purchasing a big ticket item such as a car or Real Estate. If you have been late or skipped payments over time and received the resulting low credit score, there are always methods that can help turn the issue around. Review a copy of your credit report and ensure there are no errors or strange transactions that may have been mistakenly added. Bring delinquent accounts up to date by borrowing money from a relative or withdrawing from your savings. Do not apply for any additional credit cards—resist opening a retail store credit card so you can save a percentage on a purchase at the register. Opening additional lines of credit can drag down your numbers even further. Maintain a strict bill-paying schedule and issue payments in a timely manner way before due dates. You may have to put your savings goals on hold as you work towards paying down your debt. It takes discipline and time, but it is well worth the effort as you reinstate your reputation as a responsible money manager.

Call our office today if you have questions about buying or selling Real Estate in the Palm Springs and La Quinta areas. 760-541-7006

365 Things To Do in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Air Museum

We are lucky to have right in our own backyard one of the world’s largest showplaces for World War II aircraft. Situated in superbly designed hangars are extensive displays of the most impressive aircraft that made it through the challenges of this world war. In addition is the Buddy Rodgers Theatre that shows daily documentaries about aviation in the military, focusing on WWII. Visitors can peruse historic artifacts and a library of 8,500 volumes related to American military history. It is an inspiring and interesting tour for people of all ages. Saturday programs offer members and visitors the opportunity to participate in the sights and sounds of World War II and later conflicts in our history. At the Palm Springs Air Museum you will view one of the world’s largest collections of flying WWII warplanes, original combat photography, large murals, artifacts and WWII uniforms. The Palm Springs Air Museum is open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm. The aircraft is flown regularly, in conjunction with seminars and education programs. For more information, call 760-778-6262, ext. 241 or e-mail: Education@PalmSpringsAirMuseum.org. The museum is located adjacent to the Palm Springs International Airport.

If you are thinking about purchasing or listing Real Estate for sale in Palm Springs or surrounding areas call our office at 760-880-9996/760-541-7006

A Look at short sale Sales

We are hearing the term “Short Sale” in Real Estate today more than ever. Just what does it mean when you become interested in a property listing presented as a short sale? A short sale occurs when a home is sold for less than the value of the mortgage. After a short sale is closed, the balance that remains and owed to the lender is usually paid either by PMI (mortgage insurance), the borrower, or it is written-off as a loss by the bank. Purchasing a short sale can be profitable. Before venturing into a short sale deal, do a little research and pay close attention to the various stages before the sale is conveyed. You will want to research sales comparables in the area before making an offer. Some properties contain first and second mortgages, not really a problem if both liens are owned by the same lender. Things can get complicated when the holder of the second mortgage expects to be paid in full when the sale goes through. Negotiations during the process could derail or delay the sale when offers get rejected. Consult your real estate agent to find out the number of liens attached to the short sale property you are interested in. Avoid “low-ball” offers because the lenders are already establishing a loss when short sale properties hit the market—low-ball offers are almost always rejected.

If you need help selling a Real Estate or purchasing real estate please contact us at 760-880-9996 or 760-541-7006.

365 Things to Do in Palm Springs

Old Town La Quinta

Nestled in the heart of scenic La Quinta is Old Town on Main Street, a wonderful shopping and dining destination highlighted by the essence of a quaint Spanish village.
 A quiet stroll takes you to fabulous restaurants including the legendary Hog’s Breath Inn, The Grill on Main, Old Town Coffee Company and Stuft Pizza. Eclectic boutiques and shops offer everything from imported olive oil at the La Quinta Olive Oil Company to a showroom of pool and patio products at Desert Outdoor. The entertaining outdoor concerts, art shows, weekly organic farmer’s market and seasonal special events beckon locals and tourists alike. Logan Gallery invites you to be moved and inspired by their collection of paintings and sculptures from around the world. Old Town Bicycle Rentals has the perfect idea on how to explore the beauty of the surrounding area, and the Old Town Wine Bar waits when it’s time to wind down and relax with a delectable nosh and a favorite vintage in the glass. Many handy services are available from the Barrister & Barrister law practice to the Alankara Aveda Salon. There’s a lot to see, to do, and partake in. Old Town La Quinta is more than a destination, it’s an experience.

Old Town La Quinta
78-100 Main Street

If you are thinking about buying or selling property in La Quinta or surrounding area, please contact us at 760-541-7006.

Golf Cart Maintenance

You get a workout on the golf course—and so does your golf cart. To get the maximum potential from your major investment year after year, create a maintenance schedule and keep your golf cart in top working order so it’s always ready, always dependable, and ready to carry you flawlessly through your game. Give its basic functions a weekly checkup. Check the battery and clean it regularly so grass, sand, dirt and battery acid doesn’t collect and interfere with connections leaving the cart underpowered. Check the connections of the batteries and remove all corrosion and debris from around the terminals. A mixture of baking soda and water will melt away any built-up corrosion; then wipe the batteries down with a clean cloth. Always unplug the charging cord after the batteries have reached a full charge. Keep the electrolyte water levels up in each cell of the batteries; the leaded plates within the batteries must be submerged in order to work consistently—and always use distilled water! Make sure your battery cases are free from cracks and there is a tight seal on the caps. Major golf cart checkups should be planned every three months so the tires can be inspected and internal parts cleaned and checked. Visit a reputable mechanic who will thoroughly conduct the inspection. Be good to your major investment and enjoy optimum service for years to come.

If you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate in one of our great golf communities please call our office at 760-541-006

365 Things to Do in Palm Springs

The Palm Springs Follies

Touted as “one of the most fun things you can do in Palm Springs”, the Palm Springs Follies is a legendary and spectacular stage show not to be missed. The performers are a line-up of multi-talented stage performers ranging in age from 56 to 86, remaining true to the spirit of 40s, 50s and 60s entertainment. It’s a show filled with music, comedy, dance and pure fun at the 30’s-era Plaza Theatre movie house.

The Follies has garnered a worldwide reputation for its excitement and glamour. Guest headliners also appear with the company from time to time; most recently Maureen McGovern and John Davidson.

The Follies began when producer, writer and television director Riff Markowitz moved to the area and needed something to fill his time. When Palm Springs city officials asked if he could find a use for the under-utilized Plaza Theatre, Markowitz was ready to start the Follies. The costumed show girls, known as the “long-legged lovelies” perform comedy acts, vaudeville routines and show-stopping finales.

To purchase tickets, call (760) 327-0225; or visit them at 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive. www.palmspringsfollies.com

If you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate in the Palm Springs area, please call our office at 760-541-7006 for answers to all your real estate questions.