The Los Angeles Condo Loft

Miracle Mile — Minutes From Everywhere You Want To Be

Lela Winston — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:22:46 +0000

The Los Angeles Miracle Mile stands as a trendy cultural mecca, just minutes away from Korea Town, Larchmont, Westwood and Beverly Hills. Strangely, the Miracle Mile is actually about two miles, stretching from Western Avenue to Fairfax Boulevard along the Wilshire Corridor which begins in Downtown Los Angeles and reaches to the Pacific Ocean. The neighborhood is mostly composed of apartments and lofts peppered with condos, cultural exhibitions, and art and entertainment venues. The Miracle Mile spans two Los Angeles city districts. The area was largely transformed in the mid-twenties by developer A.W. Ross who sought to create a commercial district comparable to downtown Los Angeles out of a rough road and farmland west of Western avenue. The result was the Miracle Mile which attracted huge commercial interest, making Ross’ venture a resounding success. Since that time, the Miracle Mile has managed to stay relevant for over 80 years. The Miracle Mile boasts a few high rises and multistory commercial buildings like the Variety building and the Samsung building, but it remains mostly a low rise neighborhood. Many of its apartments, condos and commercial properties remain only a few stories high. The low rise buildings reduce the urban aesthetic and inject a hint of suburbia that is refreshing. Many of the apartments rent for between $2000 to $5000 and some studios go for as little as $1000. Condos and houses in the area average between half a million and $1.5 million dollars. This is definitely a neighborhood for the trendy urban dweller that likes to be just within reach of everything. The Miracle Mile sparkles with the magic of possibility and excitement. It also has a relatively young demographic which ranges between 20-40 year-olds and the seasonal influx of UCLA students. On an average day you will find strolling couples, joggers, and foodies enjoying their favorite meal or beverage at a local eatery or coffee shop. The historic Wiltern Theater and El Rey Theaters are just minutes apart on the Miracle Mile giving way to a bastion of ethnic and local eateries, offering cuisine from India and Italy to Africa and Korea. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is undoubtedly one of the crown jewels of the Miracle Mile. It houses a number of fine art collections, hosts cultural events year round and is located only seconds from the La Brea tar pits, a naturally occurring phenomenon in Southern California. The famous Peterson Automotive Museum along with LACMA are among the many museums and cultural spots in the neighborhood. While the Miracle Mile appears mostly untouched by the economic downturn, the neighborhood has seen some changes. It has seen the demise of a few local businesses and many have been replaced with big box commercial venues and franchises. Additionally a number of newer condos are being developed in the area, along with a luxury car dealership. And while many of the changes have been beneficial, there are markedly more commercial, residential and medical office vacancies. The neighborhood has also seen foreclosures on a few of its condos and single family residences. These changes may be a temporary sign, but shrewd buyers and renters may want to remain vigilant in the current bear real estate market. Overall, the Miracle Mile has remained relatively stable. The area has many factors working in its favor. Its proximity to Hollywood, UCLA and Beverly Hills has helped to keep this a vibrant and economically resilient neighborhood. The La Brea Tar Pits, Museum Row and its numerous entertainment venues also help to keep the Miracle Mile a hot spot for affluent Angelenos, students, and tourists. Its cultural diversity and proximity to many of Los Angeles’ notable neighborhoods make it a desirable location for those who like accessibility and variety.

The area was largely transformed in the mid-twenties by developer A.W. Ross who sought to create a commercial district comparable to downtown Los Angeles out of a rough road and farmland west of Western avenue. The result was the Miracle Mile which attracted huge commercial interest, making Ross’ venture a resounding success. Since that time, the Miracle Mile has managed to stay relevant for over 80 years.

The Miracle Mile boasts a few high rises and multistory commercial buildings like the Variety building and the Samsung building, but it remains mostly a low rise neighborhood. Many of its apartments, condos and commercial properties remain only a few stories high. The low rise buildings reduce the urban aesthetic and inject a hint of suburbia that is refreshing. Many of the apartments rent for between $2000 to $5000 and some studios go for as little as $1000. Condos and houses in the area average between half a million and $1.5 million dollars.

This is definitely a neighborhood for the trendy urban dweller that likes to be just within reach of everything. The Miracle Mile sparkles with the magic of possibility and excitement. It also has a relatively young demographic which ranges between 20-40 year-olds and the seasonal influx of UCLA students. On an average day you will find strolling couples, joggers, and foodies enjoying their favorite meal or beverage at a local eatery or coffee shop. The historic Wiltern Theater and El Rey Theaters are just minutes apart on the Miracle Mile giving way to a bastion of ethnic and local eateries, offering cuisine from India and Italy to Africa and Korea.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is undoubtedly one of the crown jewels of the Miracle Mile. It houses a number of fine art collections, hosts cultural events year round and is located only seconds from the La Brea tar pits, a naturally occurring phenomenon in Southern California. The famous Peterson Automotive Museum along with LACMA are among the many museums and cultural spots in the neighborhood.

While the Miracle Mile appears mostly untouched by the economic downturn, the neighborhood has seen some changes. It has seen the demise of a few local businesses and many have been replaced with big box commercial venues and franchises. Additionally a number of newer condos are being developed in the area, along with a luxury car dealership. And while many of the changes have been beneficial, there are markedly more commercial, residential and medical office vacancies. The neighborhood has also seen foreclosures on a few of its condos and single family residences. These changes may be a temporary sign, but shrewd buyers and renters may want to remain vigilant in the current bear real estate market.

Overall, the Miracle Mile has remained relatively stable. The area has many factors working in its favor. Its proximity to Hollywood, UCLA and Beverly Hills has helped to keep this a vibrant and economically resilient neighborhood. The La Brea Tar Pits, Museum Row and its numerous entertainment venues also help to keep the Miracle Mile a hot spot for affluent Angelenos, students, and tourists. Its cultural diversity and proximity to many of Los Angeles’ notable neighborhoods make it a desirable location for those who like accessibility and variety.

Rancho Palos Verdes – Living on the Edge… of LA County

Steven John — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 21:14:59 +0000

The city of Rancho Palos Verdes is home to some 42,000 people. Incorporated in the early 70s, it is carved out of a piece of Los Angeles County, its largest border being the Pacific Ocean. Based on the city’s situation on something of a point, beaches, striking coastlines and (important for the home hunter) water views abound. The racial makeup of the city is a decently rich mix, with Caucasians and Asians being the largest two groups represented, but a healthy mix of many people. And while Rancho Palos Verdes is a decidedly affluent town, with a 2007 estimate of median household income at around $112,00.00 annually, don’t worry – there are plural lovely and affordable condos! (And some that are maybe not so affordable. But still lovely, to be sure.) The schools of Rancho Palos Verdes are lauded as some of the nation’s best. And that goes for its highly regarded private schools as well as the public Palos Verdes Unified School District as well. The excellent educational institutions of the area greatly increase its desirability for families with school-age children (or those who are planning ahead). While the city has its own independent government, it uses LAPD and LAFD staffers at its emergency services stations. The former, however, will often find themselves bored in this safe, secure town. Residents are rather used to that type of lifestyle, what with median home prices hovering just under 1.5 million dollars. But like I said, fear not! We can beat the heck out of that and still give you plural bedrooms and bathrooms! Some wonderful properties for <375k – 625k. Take a look.

The racial makeup of the city is a decently rich mix, with Caucasians and Asians being the largest two groups represented, but a healthy mix of many people. And while Rancho Palos Verdes is a decidedly affluent town, with a 2007 estimate of median household income at around $112,00.00 annually, don’t worry – there are plural lovely and affordable condos! (And some that are maybe not so affordable. But still lovely, to be sure.)

The schools of Rancho Palos Verdes are lauded as some of the nation’s best. And that goes for its highly regarded private schools as well as the public Palos Verdes Unified School District as well. The excellent educational institutions of the area greatly increase its desirability for families with school-age children (or those who are planning ahead).

While the city has its own independent government, it uses LAPD and LAFD staffers at its emergency services stations. The former, however, will often find themselves bored in this safe, secure town. Residents are rather used to that type of lifestyle, what with median home prices hovering just under 1.5 million dollars.

But like I said, fear not! We can beat the heck out of that and still give you plural bedrooms and bathrooms! Some wonderful properties for <375k – 625k. Take a look.

Marina del Rey – A Lovely Place to Call Home… if You Can Find One.

Steven John — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 20:12:38 +0000

Lovely little Marina del Ray is home to fewer than 10,000 residents. And once someone buys a home here, it’s unlikely they’re going to up and move out again, so finding an available residence can be tricky. But that’s why we’re here for you. The area, which is yet another unincorporated but “census-designated” area of Los Angeles County, gets its name, aptly, from the huge marina that dominates the region. The marina (which is really more than a dozen smaller marinas loosely connected) can dock over 5,000 small to medium sized boats. So if you own a boat or are just a general boating enthusiast, well, this may be a good place for you, captain. Being so close to the water, it stays nice and cool in Marina del Rey all year round. The temperatures rarely go much above 80 degrees, even in the middle of the summer. With 45 degrees Fahrenheit being about as cold as it ever gets in winter, this is a pretty mild place, really. And a pretty new one, by the way: the area was not fully developed and the harbor not officially active until 1965 (that after decades of false starts, abandoned building projects, etc.). If sea breezes, beautiful beaches and a laid back lifestyle sounds about right to you, visit us at CondoDomain. Yeah, some of our featured properties here are north of one million dollars, but c’mon… the view baby.

The area, which is yet another unincorporated but “census-designated” area of Los Angeles County, gets its name, aptly, from the huge marina that dominates the region. The marina (which is really more than a dozen smaller marinas loosely connected) can dock over 5,000 small to medium sized boats. So if you own a boat or are just a general boating enthusiast, well, this may be a good place for you, captain.

Being so close to the water, it stays nice and cool in Marina del Rey all year round. The temperatures rarely go much above 80 degrees, even in the middle of the summer. With 45 degrees Fahrenheit being about as cold as it ever gets in winter, this is a pretty mild place, really. And a pretty new one, by the way: the area was not fully developed and the harbor not officially active until 1965 (that after decades of false starts, abandoned building projects, etc.).

If sea breezes, beautiful beaches and a laid back lifestyle sounds about right to you, visit us at CondoDomain. Yeah, some of our featured properties here are north of one million dollars, but c’mon… the view baby.

Baldwin Hills – A Neighborhood on the Mend

Steven John — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:09:13 +0000

Los Angeles has long been associated with endemic gang violence and crime issues. Unfortunately, for much of the city’s history, this association has been a relatively fair one. In the late 60s and again in the early 90s riots ripped much of the city asunder. In the times between regular criminal activities with occasional large flare ups of violence have been a sad part of the fabric of our city. In recent years, much of the city has been very much on the rebound, as it were. From Downtown to South Los Angeles (as it was re-designated to break the stigma of the area’s former name, South Central), Los Angeles is becoming a much safer place to live, to work and to raise a family. And what does that mean? Well, many things. But for our purposes, it means that for the home hunter who is willing to bet the city’s ascendance will continue, now is the time to buy! Baldwin Hills is a neighborhood of Los Angeles it would be easy enough to overlook. It is tucked to the south of the 10 Freeway and to the east of Culver City. It shares borders with some historically unpleasant areas on its own eastern edge and, as such, is an area many seek to avoid. But this reaction is out of date. Restaurants and shops are cropping up and homes are available. Take a look yourself and see if maybe you can’t picture what this neighborhood could look like in a few years’ time. Take a look at these stats (as of 10/18/11): 1 BR: Active Listings – 5 • Lowest – $190,000 • Average – $197,200 • Highest – $199,000 2 BR: Active Listings – 8 • Lowest – $269,900 • Average – $308,675 • Highest – $349,000 3 BR: Active Listings – 6 • Lowest – $250,000 • Average – $347,500 • Highest – $389,000 Interested? Contact us and we can help you participate in the Baldwin Hills renaissance. CondoDomain.

In recent years, much of the city has been very much on the rebound, as it were. From Downtown to South Los Angeles (as it was re-designated to break the stigma of the area’s former name, South Central), Los Angeles is becoming a much safer place to live, to work and to raise a family.

And what does that mean? Well, many things. But for our purposes, it means that for the home hunter who is willing to bet the city’s ascendance will continue, now is the time to buy! Baldwin Hills is a neighborhood of Los Angeles it would be easy enough to overlook. It is tucked to the south of the 10 Freeway and to the east of Culver City. It shares borders with some historically unpleasant areas on its own eastern edge and, as such, is an area many seek to avoid. But this reaction is out of date. Restaurants and shops are cropping up and homes are available. Take a look yourself and see if maybe you can’t picture what this neighborhood could look like in a few years’ time.

Take a look at these stats (as of 10/18/11):

1 BR: Active Listings – 5 • Lowest – $190,000 • Average – $197,200 • Highest – $199,000

2 BR: Active Listings – 8 • Lowest – $269,900 • Average – $308,675 • Highest – $349,000

3 BR: Active Listings – 6 • Lowest – $250,000 • Average – $347,500 • Highest – $389,000

Interested? Contact us and we can help you participate in the Baldwin Hills renaissance. CondoDomain.

A Foodie’s Guide to Los Angeles Markets

Steven John — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:13:34 +0000

Let me start off by saying I am no great fan of the term “foodie” and, in fact, I’m surprised my spellchecker is letting it go without a stern red underline. I mean, aren’t we all foodies? In that we all need food? And don’t we already have the term “gourmand” to… well, whatever. The airwaves are cleared! We’re taking a step back from discussing specific regions and the lovely condos they offer again today. Today I am going to tell you about some of the finest markets and shops for those… gourmands among you. If you love to cook and you live in L.A., this article is the one for you. If you hate cooking but live in L.A., maybe forward this to a friend. If you love cooking but live in Macon, GA then maybe when considering your next move… ah forget it. Los Angeles boasts scores of locations where the foodie set thrives. There are dozens of farmer’s markets, fish markets, vegan only specialty shops, spice stores, etc. Today I am going to brief you on five places, all of which are very different from one another but representative of the wonderful variety of spots available the Angeleno who is a real food lover (see, that works too!). Farmer’s Market – “The Original” Humble? No. Excellent? Pretty much. The Farmer’s Market at Third and Fairfax is open every day, offers all sorts of crazy-good fresh food and boasts extras that really none of L.A.’s other markets can, what with its permanence. There are prepared food vendors spread out among those selling fresh foodstuffs, so you can fill up as you stock up. You can even grab a drink at one of the two fine bars there! Or just get your arugula and saffron and off you go. www.farmersmarketla.com The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills Hey, are you way into cheese? Like… really into it? Like $70 platter of assorted goat cheeses sounds totally fine with you? Then welcome home, mon amí! Or… something that makes sense in French. From caviar to charcuterie to spreads and crackers and – you guessed it – lots and lots of fine cheeses, if you’ve got the pocketbook for it, this is the place to get cheese in L.A. www.cheesestorebh.com/ Spice Station Passing through the up and coming and ever so hip neighborhood of Silver Lake? Say, while you’re here, you should stock up on lemon pepper and coriander and sugars in colors and varieties you did not know existed. And much, much more. The Spice Station is basically unbeatable if you want the obscure, the extreme… the… spiciest? And you can buy as much or as little as you want, so it’s perfect for that oddball ingredient you need for that rub you are making without leaving you the proud owner of a useless ounce of blanched paprika (no, that does not make sense). (They also have a Santa Monica location FYI!) www.spicestationsilverlake.com Market Gourmet This excellent market in the Venice neighborhood boasts all the right foodstuffs, will happily deliver to your location and offers catering services and gift baskets to boot. You know what this market looks like and offers – it is what you picture when someone says “gourmet market.” So if that’s your thing, come on by! Or rather head on over there… don’t come by here, I’m busy. http://marketgourmet.biz The Oaks Gourmet If you’re a Hollywood denizen (or just passing through), you owe it to yourself and your taste buds to check this place out. It’s newer, barely two years old, but excellent indeed. The cheese and wine selection alone are reason enough to visit. Ditto the coffee and pastries. And, y’know, everything about it, really. There’s chocolate like you read about (um… like you just did… 2 seconds ago), prepared food, etc. Just take a look at their website and then head on over. www.theoaksgourmet.com

We’re taking a step back from discussing specific regions and the lovely condos they offer again today. Today I am going to tell you about some of the finest markets and shops for those… gourmands among you. If you love to cook and you live in L.A., this article is the one for you. If you hate cooking but live in L.A., maybe forward this to a friend. If you love cooking but live in Macon, GA then maybe when considering your next move… ah forget it.

Los Angeles boasts scores of locations where the foodie set thrives. There are dozens of farmer’s markets, fish markets, vegan only specialty shops, spice stores, etc. Today I am going to brief you on five places, all of which are very different from one another but representative of the wonderful variety of spots available the Angeleno who is a real food lover (see, that works too!).

Farmer’s Market – “The Original”
Humble? No. Excellent? Pretty much. The Farmer’s Market at Third and Fairfax is open every day, offers all sorts of crazy-good fresh food and boasts extras that really none of L.A.’s other markets can, what with its permanence. There are prepared food vendors spread out among those selling fresh foodstuffs, so you can fill up as you stock up. You can even grab a drink at one of the two fine bars there! Or just get your arugula and saffron and off you go.
www.farmersmarketla.com

The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills
Hey, are you way into cheese? Like… really into it? Like $70 platter of assorted goat cheeses sounds totally fine with you? Then welcome home, mon amí! Or… something that makes sense in French. From caviar to charcuterie to spreads and crackers and – you guessed it – lots and lots of fine cheeses, if you’ve got the pocketbook for it, this is the place to get cheese in L.A.
www.cheesestorebh.com/

Spice Station
Passing through the up and coming and ever so hip neighborhood of Silver Lake? Say, while you’re here, you should stock up on lemon pepper and coriander and sugars in colors and varieties you did not know existed. And much, much more. The Spice Station is basically unbeatable if you want the obscure, the extreme… the… spiciest? And you can buy as much or as little as you want, so it’s perfect for that oddball ingredient you need for that rub you are making without leaving you the proud owner of a useless ounce of blanched paprika (no, that does not make sense). (They also have a Santa Monica location FYI!)
www.spicestationsilverlake.com

Market Gourmet
This excellent market in the Venice neighborhood boasts all the right foodstuffs, will happily deliver to your location and offers catering services and gift baskets to boot. You know what this market looks like and offers – it is what you picture when someone says “gourmet market.” So if that’s your thing, come on by! Or rather head on over there… don’t come by here, I’m busy.
http://marketgourmet.biz

The Oaks Gourmet
If you’re a Hollywood denizen (or just passing through), you owe it to yourself and your taste buds to check this place out. It’s newer, barely two years old, but excellent indeed. The cheese and wine selection alone are reason enough to visit. Ditto the coffee and pastries. And, y’know, everything about it, really. There’s chocolate like you read about (um… like you just did… 2 seconds ago), prepared food, etc. Just take a look at their website and then head on over.
www.theoaksgourmet.com

Good Ol’ Santa Monica

Steven John — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:32:45 +0000

Sure, I’ve mentioned a few condos in Santa Monica over the months, but I’ve never really told you about the city itself. If you knew more about it, maybe you’d visit and just maybe you’d want to call it home. Let’s take a look. Beautiful, breezy Santa Monica is one of the most famous, iconic cities in Southern California. Arguably, it is one of the most famous cities in America: its name has been featured in songs, images of its beaches and beloved pier are plastered across postcards and it has served as backdrop to countless films and television shows. And not only is its iconic status richly deserved, but richly storied. Santa Monica has boasted permanent residents since time immemorial, with westerners first settling the area in the second half of the 18th Century. It was officially incorporated as a city in December of 1886. According to the 2010 United States census, there are approximately 90,000 people who call the city home. This number surged in the late 20th century, as the town’s center gentrified and people flocked to the area. At only eight and a half square miles in area, the city has an outsized reputation; one by which visitors will not be let down. There is never a shortage of things to do and sights to see. There are myriad focal points in this beach community, with perhaps the three most notable being The Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade and the beach itself. The Santa Monica Pier is just over one hundred years old. Over its long history, it has been the site of a grand ballroom, a permanent carnival, Ferris wheels and roller coasters. Today the pier maintains its carnival atmosphere, still featuring newer versions of the aforementioned rides, an arcade, various games and a plethora of food stands. The pier itself has been featured in numerous works of cinema and TV. The Third Street Promenade is essentially a giant, outdoor shopping mall. Several blocks of Third Street – just a short distance from the Pacific Ocean – have been permanently blocked off to create ample space for visitors to stroll, window shop or pause for coffee or a bite to eat. Street performers mingle with tourists and locals up and down the three block stretch of the Promenade, which at its southern end leads into an indoor shopping mall. The beach itself needs little in the way of explanation. Sandwiched between Venice Beach to the south and Pacific Palisades and Malibu to the north, the beaches of Santa Monica are much flatter and wider than much of the Pacific coast line, creating a perfect place for sunbathers, volleyball players and more to congregate. The long concrete path that runs the length of Santa Monica’s beaches (and beyond) is busy at all hours with joggers, bicyclists and casual strollers, taking in the sea breeze or sunset. Easy to do, with the cities more than three hundred sunny days a year and mild climate. The city has its own dedicated police and fire departments, hospitals, school system and even an airport (though it serves private craft almost exclusively). Various businesses and film production companies have their headquarters located in Santa Monica, as well as notable private citizens, such as producer/comedian Larry David, actor Sean Penn and architect Frank Gehry (who, in fact, designed the indoor mall adjacent to the Third Street Promenade). But what you want to know about are the homes, I know. I was just trying to whet your appetite a bit! I’ll assume that was a success and that you now must move here to be happy. Good news / bad news time. Let’s to the bad first: the houses are expensive. The good news? Ah, you saw it coming. Santa Monica condos are well priced and lovely! Take a gander (yes, gander): (Photo of 2726 Montana Ave Listed by Yan Yan Zhang) 1020 19th Street – $625,000 2726 Montana Avenue – $1,090,000 619 Euclid Street – $2,999,999 And it goes a lot higher … Find your dream home in Santa Monica.

Beautiful, breezy Santa Monica is one of the most famous, iconic cities in Southern California. Arguably, it is one of the most famous cities in America: its name has been featured in songs, images of its beaches and beloved pier are plastered across postcards and it has served as backdrop to countless films and television shows. And not only is its iconic status richly deserved, but richly storied.

Santa Monica has boasted permanent residents since time immemorial, with westerners first settling the area in the second half of the 18th Century. It was officially incorporated as a city in December of 1886. According to the 2010 United States census, there are approximately 90,000 people who call the city home. This number surged in the late 20th century, as the town’s center gentrified and people flocked to the area.

At only eight and a half square miles in area, the city has an outsized reputation; one by which visitors will not be let down. There is never a shortage of things to do and sights to see. There are myriad focal points in this beach community, with perhaps the three most notable being The Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade and the beach itself.

The Santa Monica Pier is just over one hundred years old. Over its long history, it has been the site of a grand ballroom, a permanent carnival, Ferris wheels and roller coasters. Today the pier maintains its carnival atmosphere, still featuring newer versions of the aforementioned rides, an arcade, various games and a plethora of food stands. The pier itself has been featured in numerous works of cinema and TV.

The Third Street Promenade is essentially a giant, outdoor shopping mall. Several blocks of Third Street – just a short distance from the Pacific Ocean – have been permanently blocked off to create ample space for visitors to stroll, window shop or pause for coffee or a bite to eat. Street performers mingle with tourists and locals up and down the three block stretch of the Promenade, which at its southern end leads into an indoor shopping mall.

The beach itself needs little in the way of explanation. Sandwiched between Venice Beach to the south and Pacific Palisades and Malibu to the north, the beaches of Santa Monica are much flatter and wider than much of the Pacific coast line, creating a perfect place for sunbathers, volleyball players and more to congregate. The long concrete path that runs the length of Santa Monica’s beaches (and beyond) is busy at all hours with joggers, bicyclists and casual strollers, taking in the sea breeze or sunset. Easy to do, with the cities more than three hundred sunny days a year and mild climate.

The city has its own dedicated police and fire departments, hospitals, school system and even an airport (though it serves private craft almost exclusively). Various businesses and film production companies have their headquarters located in Santa Monica, as well as notable private citizens, such as producer/comedian Larry David, actor Sean Penn and architect Frank Gehry (who, in fact, designed the indoor mall adjacent to the Third Street Promenade).

But what you want to know about are the homes, I know. I was just trying to whet your appetite a bit! I’ll assume that was a success and that you now must move here to be happy. Good news / bad news time. Let’s to the bad first: the houses are expensive. The good news? Ah, you saw it coming. Santa Monica condos are well priced and lovely!
Take a gander (yes, gander):

(Photo of 2726 Montana Ave Listed by Yan Yan Zhang)

1020 19th Street – $625,000

2726 Montana Avenue – $1,090,000

619 Euclid Street – $2,999,999

And it goes a lot higher … Find your dream home in Santa Monica.

El Monte – Yet Another City in a City

Steven John — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 19:54:49 +0000

If you don’t live in Los Angeles, you have probably never heard of El Monte. If you do live here, you may well have heard of the place but know nothing about it. That, more and more these days, would be to your detriment. Did you know, for example, that El Monte is a fully incorporated city in the central-eastern part of L.A. (in the San Gabriel Valley, for those in the know)? Or that it is home to well over 100,000 residents? Or that in the 18th century Spanish settlers, missionaries and soldiers frequented the area? And were you aware that next year, 2012, marks the centennial of the founding of El Monte? If you didn’t know any of that, I forgive you. You also probably didn’t know that there are dozens of 3 bedroom condos available there for under $250k. And 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condos for around $150 thousand. That’s right: scarcely 10 miles down the 10 Freeway from Downtown is a city just begging for you to take a look (and then stake a claim… this is the historic “End of the Santa Fe Trail,” after all!). Take a look at these three homes, in ascending order of size, price and amenities, and then tell me where else around here you can find that kind of value! (What? Oh… right… in many of your past articles. Well, just doin’ my job, then.) $190k… Under $300k… Just over $300k… If you are interested in seeing any of these amazing homes just enter your information into the box on your right and an expert real estate agent will get in touch with you ASAP!

Did you know, for example, that El Monte is a fully incorporated city in the central-eastern part of L.A. (in the San Gabriel Valley, for those in the know)? Or that it is home to well over 100,000 residents? Or that in the 18^th century Spanish settlers, missionaries and soldiers frequented the area? And were you aware that next year, 2012, marks the centennial of the founding of El Monte?

If you didn’t know any of that, I forgive you. You also probably didn’t know that there are dozens of 3 bedroom condos available there for under $250k. And 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condos for around $150 thousand. That’s right: scarcely 10 miles down the 10 Freeway from Downtown is a city just begging for you to take a look (and then stake a claim… this is the historic “End of the Santa Fe Trail,” after all!).

Take a look at these three homes, in ascending order of size, price and amenities, and then tell me where else around here you can find that kind of value! (What? Oh… right… in many of your past articles. Well, just doin’ my job, then.)

$190k…

Under $300k…

Just over $300k…

If you are interested in seeing any of these amazing homes just enter your information into the box on your right and an expert real estate agent will get in touch with you ASAP!

Los Angeles Living to Leave the Car Behind

Steven John — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:09:28 +0000

A little while back I wrote an article on Westwood, an area of Los Angeles that is very walking friendly, and got some positive responses. People seem to like the idea of living in a place where they can actually get their groceries, grab a bite, see a movie, etc. without having to jump in their cars and sit in slow-and-go traffic for 40 minutes (that seems to be the magic number, by the way… whenever anyone asks me how long it takes to get anywhere, I just say 40 minutes and it’s usually pretty damn close to right). So I thought, “Hey! Let’s run with that!” Thus today I shall profile three areas where you could live (almost) entirely without your car. Unless you wanted to go see a friend in Venice or Pasadena or South LA. All those will require some driving – say… 40 minutes worth? Anyway, I’ll give you briefs on each area, then one fine example of a condo that could be yours in said area. We start with… SANTA MONICA: A famous city, right by the beach, beautiful, blah blah. Santa Monica is a great place, we all know that. But so is, say, Malibu, and good luck without a car there. In many areas of Santa Monica, however, you can live in a lovely home and be within a five minute walk of groceries, fine upscale dining, casual cafes, bars, a movie theater and shops ranging from department stores to an REI to Rite Aid and beyond. (Oh and there’s that whole beaches along the Pacific Coast thing). Santa Monica is a large city, and much of it is more suburban and not as walking friendly. But as you move toward its charming downtown, see the laudatory list above and take a look at this awesome place. BURBANK: Much of Burbank is entirely residential and does not fit our narrative of today. But we’re not talking about that part. Nor are we talking about the Warner Brothers or Disney lots. You can’t live there, sorry. Where I’m going to focus is on the downtown of the city, which is actually, ironically, near its very northern border, just north of the 5 Freeway. Along Glenoaks and San Fernando Boulevards from the east to west and roughly between Burbank Blvd. and Alameda Street running north to south is an area of Burbank where you can shoot pool, grab groceries, hit the mall, see films in several theaters, go to Ikea, eat at all types of restaurants and taverns… and so on. You could live on foot indefinitely. (And ironically, the DMV is not far down the road either!) Check out this available home for a taste: WEST LOS ANGELES: Lots of people have trouble nailing down exactly where “West Los Angeles” denotes, exactly. Well, let me elucidate it for you… it’s east of the 405 but also some on the west of it. It’s north of the 10 Freeway (if you ask most people). It’s south of and not to be confused with Westwood and it’s west of Century City which kind of stops at… um… Overland? Or before that? OK! Fine! It’s hard to define. So I’ll find you a home near the intersection of Olympic and Sepulveda. That will give you what many Anglenos dream of… close access to two major highways! Wait! Forget I said that, we’re talking about NOT using your car! (Oh well, it’s still true.) This area affords you a shopping center, various ethnic restaurants, grocery stores, etc. The rent/mortgage here is decidedly lower than other areas and perhaps it’s got more… character… but stand by… I smell gentrification in the air…Check it out If you want to see any of this fabulous LA real estate or take a look at some different listings simply enter your information into the box on your right and a expert LA real estate agent will get in touch with you ASAP!

So I thought, “Hey! Let’s run with that!” Thus today I shall profile three areas where you could live (almost) entirely without your car. Unless you wanted to go see a friend in Venice or Pasadena or South LA. All those will require some driving – say… 40 minutes worth? Anyway, I’ll give you briefs on each area, then one fine example of a condo that could be yours in said area.

We start with…

SANTA MONICA: A famous city, right by the beach, beautiful, blah blah. Santa Monica is a great place, we all know that. But so is, say, Malibu, and good luck without a car there. In many areas of Santa Monica, however, you can live in a lovely home and be within a five minute walk of groceries, fine upscale dining, casual cafes, bars, a movie theater and shops ranging from department stores to an REI to Rite Aid and beyond. (Oh and there’s that whole beaches along the Pacific Coast thing). Santa Monica is a large city, and much of it is more suburban and not as walking friendly. But as you move toward its charming downtown, see the laudatory list above and take a look at this awesome place.

BURBANK: Much of Burbank is entirely residential and does not fit our narrative of today. But we’re not talking about that part. Nor are we talking about the Warner Brothers or Disney lots. You can’t live there, sorry. Where I’m going to focus is on the downtown of the city, which is actually, ironically, near its very northern border, just north of the 5 Freeway. Along Glenoaks and San Fernando Boulevards from the east to west and roughly between Burbank Blvd. and Alameda Street running north to south is an area of Burbank where you can shoot pool, grab groceries, hit the mall, see films in several theaters, go to Ikea, eat at all types of restaurants and taverns… and so on. You could live on foot indefinitely. (And ironically, the DMV is not far down the road either!) Check out this available home for a taste:

WEST LOS ANGELES: Lots of people have trouble nailing down exactly where “West Los Angeles” denotes, exactly. Well, let me elucidate it for you… it’s east of the 405 but also some on the west of it. It’s north of the 10 Freeway (if you ask most people). It’s south of and not to be confused with Westwood and it’s west of Century City which kind of stops at… um… Overland? Or before that? OK! Fine! It’s hard to define. So I’ll find you a home near the intersection of Olympic and Sepulveda. That will give you what many Anglenos dream of… close access to two major highways! Wait! Forget I said that, we’re talking about NOT using your car! (Oh well, it’s still true.) This area affords you a shopping center, various ethnic restaurants, grocery stores, etc. The rent/mortgage here is decidedly lower than other areas and perhaps it’s got more… character… but stand by… I smell gentrification in the air…Check it out

If you want to see any of this fabulous LA real estate or take a look at some different listings simply enter your information into the box on your right and a expert LA real estate agent will get in touch with you ASAP!

Independent (but assisted) Living for Los Angeles Area Seniors

Steven John — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:47:47 +0000

Are you ready to have a comfortable, stable home life but far, far from ready to, quote, “settle down?” Well then I have the article for you. This one! Los Angeles is full of so-called senior citizens who may be ready for a safe, reliable place to call home and are certainly at a time in their lives when they appreciate and deserve the finest amenities available, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to check in and check out. Not by a long shot. First let’s do the basic numbers. According to the report by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2000, 4% of the population of L.A. County was between 55 and 59 years old. 60 to 64 year olds made up 3.2%, 65 to 74 year olds came in at just over 5% and older than that equaled about 4.5% of the county’s total population. So that’s about 33.5% of the total population of Los Angeles County aged over 55 years. Now, let me clear the airwaves and say that 55 is not old. Nor is 65, anymore. And 75? Not like it used to be, certainly. But with age come certain benefits, such as the wisdom to plan ahead. If you can find a great deal on a great home that could be your own indefinitely, even as your needs do start to change in your older years, why not jump on it? There are also a number of great condos in LA with a number of amenities that let you live your golden years in comfort and luxury. You can check out some of those listings HERE or enter your information into the box on your right and an expert real estate agent will get in touch with you ASAP!

First let’s do the basic numbers. According to the report by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2000, 4% of the population of L.A. County was between 55 and 59 years old. 60 to 64 year olds made up 3.2%, 65 to 74 year olds came in at just over 5% and older than that equaled about 4.5% of the county’s total population. So that’s about 33.5% of the total population of Los Angeles County aged over 55 years. Now, let me clear the airwaves and say that 55 is not old. Nor is 65, anymore. And 75? Not like it used to be, certainly. But with age come certain benefits, such as the wisdom to plan ahead. If you can find a great deal on a great home that could be your own indefinitely, even as your needs do start to change in your older years, why not jump on it?

There are also a number of great condos in LA with a number of amenities that let you live your golden years in comfort and luxury. You can check out some of those listings HERE or enter your information into the box on your right and an expert real estate agent will get in touch with you ASAP!

Manhattan Beach Bliss

Steven John — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 17:38:45 +0000

You could do a lot worse than Manhattan Beach when looking for a place to call home. While it is not, shall we say, gentle on the wallet to live there, I’ve found a few deals for you that will soften the blow. And when you see the area, you’ll be more ready to take the proverbial punch. Manhattan Beach is a fully incorporated, independent city within the County of Los Angeles. And in fact it has been since 1910, making it a decently old city by west coast standards. The population is only around 35,000 and those folks are spread across just less than four square miles of land. The downtown of this scenic city has plenty of restaurants and shops, many of them unique boutiques (sorry, that rhyme was not planned and came across sounding canned. Damn! Twice!). There is also a shopping mall – the Manhattan Village Mall – with department stores, a Pottery Barn, a Williams & Sonoma… the standard fare. Manhattan Beach is quite close to Los Angeles International Airport, thus getting away from home and then back again is a snap. It is something of a commute, however, to get to downtown LA and beyond. But why leave home? Just look at that beach! And while we’re talking about homes… here you go, in order of ascending price: 729 MANHATTAN BEACH Boulevard 121 32ND STREET 230 ANDERSON Street If you want to check out any of these awesome Manhattan Beach properties just enter your information into the box on your right and a rock star LA real estate agent will get in touch with you right away! image credits: CityofManhattanBecah.org

Manhattan Beach is a fully incorporated, independent city within the County of Los Angeles. And in fact it has been since 1910, making it a decently old city by west coast standards. The population is only around 35,000 and those folks are spread across just less than four square miles of land.

The downtown of this scenic city has plenty of restaurants and shops, many of them unique boutiques (sorry, that rhyme was not planned and came across sounding canned. Damn! Twice!). There is also a shopping mall – the Manhattan Village Mall – with department stores, a Pottery Barn, a Williams & Sonoma… the standard fare. Manhattan Beach is quite close to Los Angeles International Airport, thus getting away from home and then back again is a snap. It is something of a commute, however, to get to downtown LA and beyond. But why leave home? Just look at that beach!

And while we’re talking about homes… here you go, in order of ascending price:

729 MANHATTAN BEACH Boulevard

121 32ND STREET

230 ANDERSON Street

If you want to check out any of these awesome Manhattan Beach properties just enter your information into the box on your right and a rock star LA real estate agent will get in touch with you right away!

image credits: CityofManhattanBecah.org