Archive for January, 2009
Take advantage of L.A. weather!
January 28th, 2009 Categories: City News
The beautiful weather we are having prompted me to explore some fun outdoor activities to participate in LA. Running and walking throughout the city is a great way to become familiar with one’s neighborhood, and can also be a very peaceful experience.
A new jogging path has been developed in one of LA’s up and coming neighborhoods, Silver Lake, California. The dirt trail runs along the reservoir on Silver Lake Blvd, and is popular among residents. The path officially opens on Friday.
Runyan Canyon remains one of the most popular hiking trails in the LA area. The hike includes three observations points which I am very fond of, and is located right in the heart of Hollywood.
Franklin Canyon is a popular spot for weddings and photoshoots, which is not a surprise considering its stunning views and breathtaking scenes. This is definitely one of the most gorgeous areas to hike in LA.
| Currently No Comments »
Bad Economy = Good Design?
January 26th, 2009 Categories: Tips & Tools
A New York Times piece draws comparisons between some of this century’s lowest economic points, and the stunningly good design work that came out of them. Michael Cannell postulates that depressions and recessions result in creative problem-solving and striking new ideas in the home and interior design world, as evidenced by some of the most iconic works by Wright, Eames, and more.
| Currently No Comments »
L.A.’s Best Homes
January 23rd, 2009 Categories: City News, Real Estate Tools
A panel of experts shares their picks for the greatest homes in the Los Angeles area — historic icons and architectural triumphs. See if their selections include your favorite L.A. home.
Do you want to know our favorite L.A. home? Call us at 310-825-7515 or send an email!
| Currently No Comments »
LA Restaurant Week is back!!!
January 22nd, 2009 Categories: events in los angeles
Discover a new dining experience or visit an old favorite.
What: dineLA Restaurant Week is a two-week dining event established to introduce diners to the vast array of restaurants in neighborhoods throughout LA County. Local foodies and visitors to LA will have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of specially priced three-course meals from some of LA’s best restaurants during this dining event.
When: January 25—30, 2009 and February 1—6, 2009
Click here for a list of participating restaurants.
I’d love to hear your reviews and opinions of the restaurants, email me!
| Currently No Comments »
What’s Your Sign?
January 20th, 2009 Categories: Tips & Tools
How do your lifestyle preferences relate to your favorite type of architecture?
Coldwell Banker has put together a fun little quiz that asks a series of questions about how you live — activities, dining, shopping and more — and translates the results into the style of home that best fits your personality. See if they got it right!
Wanna know our sign? Give us a call 310-825-7515
| Currently 1 Comment »
Los Angeles Art Show Jan 21-25
January 16th, 2009 Categories: events in los angeles
Celebrate Los Angeles art month at the fourteenth annual Los Angeles Art Show. For more information and all Art Show events go to www.laartshow.com.
Call or email me to see some homes that are works of art and to find out about our new houses we have listed for 2009!
| Currently No Comments »
Down Payment Requirement Update from NAR
January 15th, 2009 Categories: Buying a Home, Real Estate Tools
The National Association of Realtors issued the following notice, in hopes of clarifying some of the issues surrounding today’s rapidly-changing mortgage climate:
Media Advisory: Down payment Clarification
There is some misinformation in the media lately about the required size of a down payment for a mortgage in today’s market, and the blog world is abuzz with misperceptions. Not all so-called experts are knowledgeable in this area, and some experts are being misunderstood.
The facts:
- An individual may be required to put down 20 percent based on that person’s financial situation. But that is not an across-the-board requirement for all borrowers.
- A borrower who puts down less than 20 percent is required to obtain mortgage insurance.
- Even in a declining market, a borrower is required to make at least a 5 or 10 percent down payment.
- FHA requires a 3.5 percent down payment by borrowers, so long as they meet a 31 percent housing cost-to-income ratio. In other words, anyone who stays within their budget and who can afford a 3.5 percent down payment (even with family help) can become a homeowner.
PLEASE NOTE: FHA market share has grown roughly tenfold in the past year to an estimated 30 percent of new mortgage originations.
If you have any questions, or need our assistance finding your dream home, call us 310-285-7515 or send an email!
| Currently No Comments »
