Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Buying A Home? Apps For Home Buyers

Fran Vernon — Wed, 08 May 2013 04:49:01 +0000

Looking for a home to buy? Enter the world of technology – beyond computers – to make the home buying process as easy as picking up your phone! Smartphone “applications”, or “apps” as they are called, are very user-friendly and designed with the home buyer in mind. Let’s look at some useful apps for home buyers.

But, where do you start? To help you with buying a Los Angeles home, we’ve made our Los Angeles real estate website tech and mobile friendly in the hope that you will find the results you need in your search.

We’ve put together some helpful apps for home buyers to use – many of these apps for home buyers are even offered free of charge, although they may request your location information in order to produce the results you desire. If you want more specific information or ideas on specialized apps for home buyers as they relate to your tech devices, please contact Fran and Rowena so we can brainstorm on how we can help meet your real estate needs. In the meantime, though, check these out!

Not sure where you want to live? Local research and neighborhood info:

Nabewise - Get to know neighborhoods in-depth, complete with pictures, reviews and ratings ond rankings on the things you care most about.
GreatSchools - Get to know local school options and read reviews by staff and parents of children attending the schools. Schools are also scored based on scores and ratings.
Yelp - Find the best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment in the area you are researching directly from the people who live there. A true “insider’s view.”

Trying to keep track of everything?

Evernote - Keep track of your buying process, including the information on homes you have seen, complete with your personal notes!

Want to search for homes and get additonal home information?

House Hunter - This tool allows you to set priorities on your wants and needs and match them to homes you are considering with the feature list and also has a mortgage calculator built in.
Trulia – Easy to use and even includes a help button. Depending on your mobile device, you can check and compare listings and even search by feature using your voice. Also available is an estimate of value.
Zillow – The “Zestimates” and “make me move” features allow you to get an idea of what homes cost on any street and even permit you to make offers to home owners who do not have their property for sale. Remember that the “Zestimate” is just that – an estimate based on the information in the system.
Realtor.com - Get stats on new homes, sold homes, and homes for sale easily and quickly, including price changes in any neighborhood.

Community Information is available on our website:

Let’s find you a home!

Recently listed Los Angeles homes for sale:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 500+. See more Real estate in the city of Los Angeles.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$619,000 : 1569 DONALDSON ST, Los Angeles

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 5,985 sqft

Year built: 1953

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 58
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$769,000 : 980 S OXFORD AVE, Unit 402, Los Angeles

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 15,497 sqft

Year built: 2008

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 95
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78
$2,875,000 : 850 THAYER AVE, Los Angeles

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 2,736 sq ft

Lot size: 7,497 sqft

Year built: 1940

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$195,000 : 4614 Wall Street, Los Angeles

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 6,300 sqft

Year built: 1923

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 63
$297,500 : 1546 E 78TH ST, Los Angeles

3 beds, 2.0 baths

Home size: 1,173 sq ft

Lot size: 6,240 sqft

Year built: 1926

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$999,000 : 2302 Observatory Avenue, Los Angeles

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 6,979 sqft

Year built: 1920

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 69
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

This post Buying A Home? Apps For Home Buyers first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Buying a Los Angeles home? Know the key to home loans!

Fran Vernon — Sun, 05 May 2013 04:39:47 +0000

Buying a Los Angeles home? Know the key to home loans!

Many areas of the United States – including Los Angeles- are seeing a shift towards a seller’s market. In a seller’s market, homes for sale may receive multiple offers and are often sold in less time. Home sellers get excited at that news, but if you are trying to purchase a home, it may make competition a bit tougher. If you have been searching for a home and have finally settled on one that you love, don’t delay on contacting your lender, or you may miss out on the home of your dreams. Here are some tips on home loans, and how this can help you in today’s real estate market.

Interest rates have been reduced to historic lows allowing you, the home buyer, to get more home for the same amount of money, which sounds fantastic. However, if you do not “lock” in the interest rate on your home loan and then follow through with providing the necessary paperwork in a timely manner, you could lose your opportunity. More than ever, now is the time for you to know the key to home loans to help you in the lending market.

If you are wondering about how you can make sure you are doing all you need to qualify for your home loan and purchase a home, contact Fran and Rowena.

Here is a list of tips for home loans for you to know when you are in the process of getting a home loan:

•DO get your paperwork in time. Whether you are asked for a letter of employment verification or pages of bank statements, do not delay in submitting these documents to your lender.

•DO NOT buy a new car or furniture or any other large purchase on credit. When making such a purchase, it will change your “debt to income” ratio and may affect your ability to qualify for your home loan.

•DO pay your current financial obligations. During the busy home buying time, it can be easy to forget to pay bills or miss deadlines – be careful because late payments will reflect negatively on your credit. Your home loan lender wants you to demonstrate fiscal responsibility by making your payments on time.

•DO NOT make changes in your employment. The key to getting a mortgage is showing your lender a picture of stability.

•DO tell the truth on your home loan application.

Of course, we advise you to check with your lender regarding how any of the above tips will or will not affect your loan.

Read more information that you will find helpful: home buying

Now that you are prepared to get a home loan, let’s help you find a Los Angeles home!

Look at the most recent homes listed in Los Angeles:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 500+. See more Real estate in the city of Los Angeles.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$619,000 : 1569 DONALDSON ST, Los Angeles

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 5,985 sqft

Year built: 1953

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 58
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$769,000 : 980 S OXFORD AVE, Unit 402, Los Angeles

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 15,497 sqft

Year built: 2008

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 95
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78
$2,875,000 : 850 THAYER AVE, Los Angeles

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 2,736 sq ft

Lot size: 7,497 sqft

Year built: 1940

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$195,000 : 4614 Wall Street, Los Angeles

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 6,300 sqft

Year built: 1923

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 63
$297,500 : 1546 E 78TH ST, Los Angeles

3 beds, 2.0 baths

Home size: 1,173 sq ft

Lot size: 6,240 sqft

Year built: 1926

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$999,000 : 2302 Observatory Avenue, Los Angeles

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 6,979 sqft

Year built: 1920

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 69
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

More real estate news:

The Real Estate Blog

This post Buying a Los Angeles home? Know the key to home loans! first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Feng Shui and Your Home for Sale

Fran Vernon — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 04:40:09 +0000

Feng Shui and Your Home for Sale

You’ve probably heard the term – “feng shui”. It is employed as an art to create “balance” and “harmony”. Most likely you’ve “felt” the feng shui of a home. You walk in and it just doesn’t feel right. Yet, if you watch any of the television shows involving interior re-design or the makeover of garden spaces, you can probably notice how the renovated and restaged homes have a certain appeal. Many times the effect has been obtained through the use of “feng shui”.

In today’s economic environment, and specifically the La Canada real estate market, selling a home can take time and be quite challenging. When we consult with a potential seller, part of our home selling services involve advice on how to help their home sell fast and for the best price obtainable in the current market. As part of that consultation, we may recommend a home stager, a home organizer, a cleaning service and/or a gardening service. In addition, many home sellers are also asking about the role that feng shui plays in the appeal and successful sale of their Los Angeles home.

There are professional feng shui consulants, or people can learn about the principals of feng shui and to it themselves. Feng shui offers some universal principles that can benefit in selling a home.

Here are five helpful feng shui tips to help get your La Canada home ready to sell:

#1 – Open the windows and doors. Let a breeze blow through your home to clear the negative energy and refresh you as you begin your work.
#2 – Step outdoors onto your walkway, the entrance of your home. What do you see first when you walk into your home? Clear any cobwebs and dust and make sure nothing is blocking the entrance. If you have to step over something, remove it.
#3 – Add energy with greenery. Whether an indoor or outdoor plant, make sure your home feels vibrant through adding plant energy. You can do this through exterior landscaping, by adding fresh flowers to the entry, or with the addition of indoor plants.
#4 – Add positive energy through art and movement through proper mirror placement. There are tons of books that can guide you through this step, however, remember that the goal is to reflect positivity and not overwhelm or create clutter in your La Canada home for sale.
#5 – Clear the clutter. Remove what you don’t need and create a “spa feel” throughout your home in all rooms. Counters should be free of objects and papers, furniture should be placed to allow for ease of movement. Any obstacles to interior door entrances should be moved.

While these tips may not offer a “cure all” to getting your home sold, they can definitely point you in the right direction. There is information online or many reference books on feng shui that will help you to increase your knowledge. As you do, take care to notice your landscaping and apply some shine and good chi to your Home for Sale sign, too.

If you are thinking of selling your La Canada home, look at these market statistics:

90-day stats for Single Family properties in LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE, CA as of May 17, 2013
Median List Price:	$1,747,423	Average List Price:	$2,194,057
Total Inventory:	65	Price per Square Foot:	$553
Average Home Size:	3,082	Median Lot Size:	16,433
Average # Beds:	4.26	Average # Baths:	3.16
Homes Absorbed:	6	Newly Listed:	8
Days on Market:	124	Average Age:	49

Please contact Fran and Rowena at (818) 952-0077 for a free, confidential consultation about selling your La Canada home.

This post Feng Shui and Your Home for Sale first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Tips for Moving Into Your New Home

Fran Vernon — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:40:39 +0000

Tips for Moving Into Your New Home

Moving into a new Los Angeles home can be a fun and exciting time in your life, but it can also be challenging. Our clients experience stress and exhaustion – and often report extra doses of Vitamin C are in order. We have some tips for moving to help with a coordinated, inexpensive and organized transition.

A move can be a short distance in Los Angeles or across the country or the world. The distance you are moving can also make a difference. Believe it or not, sometimes a shorter move can prove more challenging. Your expectations are different – thinking that you can just put things in a car or moving truck, perhaps not making a full move but taking short-cuts. What happens is that the moves over a short distance – around the corner, across the street or even across town – can be more difficult than if you pack and plan for a move over a greater distance.

We hope that you find these tips for moving to be very helpful. And, feel free to let us know if you have other moving tips that we can add to our list!

Finding Boxes: Visit your local hardware store or the large “chain” hardware stores, or even moving companies, or office supply store and look at their moving boxes and package deals. This can be a great way to get boxes shipped to your location at a minimal expense. You can also pick boxes up very inexpensively in the store as well, if you have a nearby location. If you work in an office, recognize the value of printer paper boxes. These and other boxes used for delivering supplies can be the perfect size for moving. Complete with lids, these boxes can contain your items make moving day easier, since the lids prevent overfilling and spillage. Plan ahead – if you know you are moving, start collecting boxes immediately.
Packing Boxes: Remember to pack similar items together and label each box by destination room. Your boxes should be labeled so the labels can be seen easily, in the same location on each box. Perhaps label more than one side of the box for easy recognition. Unpacking occurs more quickly when all boxes are able to be placed in the appropriate room in your new Los Angeles home.
Securing Your Valuables: Using bubble wrap, padded envelopes, and other eco-friendly materials can reduce and eliminate the possibility of breakage of your items. Felt is great to use to cushion and prevent sliding dishes, but no amount of material or bubble wrap can compensate for carelessness. Clearly mark special boxes with the word FRAGILE, so that more care is taken with those boxes in the move. You can also hand carry or personally transport any items of concern. Even if you get moving insurance, insurance replacement cost does not mean much when viewing a broken heirloom, so be sure to take any necessary precautions.
Hand Carry Some Valuables: Jewelry and other valuable items and treasures should be hand carried and safely stored during your move.
First Box – Last Box: There’s always a “first box” that you want to unpack – containing items you’ll need right away - and there’s always a “last box” that you packed – perhaps tossing leftover items into that box. Make sure these boxes are clearly labeled.

These simple tips will help you as you prepare for your transition to your new Los Angeles home. We wish you a peaceful, uneventful move to your new home. Please let us know if we can offer any assistance to you!

Contact Fran and Rowena if you would like help finding Los Angeles real estate or a home in the greater Los Angeles area:

This post Tips for Moving Into Your New Home first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Home Buying – the Basics of Homeowners Insurance

Fran Vernon — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:42 +0000

Home Buying – the Basics of Homeowners Insurance

Once you’ve purchased your dream home, it’s time to protect it! Home buying can be very risky without homeowners insurance. It is essential for safeguarding your most valuable possession against defects, vandalism and disaster. It will cover the costs of repairs in the event of calamities such as fire, storms,earthquakes, vehicles, aircraft, riots, theft, and faulty household systems or appliances. In the La Canada Flintridge area, you will also want to consider other types of insurance so check with your insurance agent. It’s important to find out what type of homeowners insurance you need after buying a home. A good insurance agent will be able to assist and counsel you with these decisions.

During the home buying process, you will be asked to provide the name of your homeowner’s insurance carrier. It’s important that you take time to investigate the different types of homeowner’s insurance, and become familiar with the terms. Costs can very between different insurance carriers, and sometimes there is a benefit to using the same insurance company for your home that you already may use for your car or other insurance coverage. So – shop around!

There are six basic types of homeowner’s insurance:

HO-2, the least expensive type, covers only named perils such as fires or lightning. If the peril is not named, it’s not covered.
HO-3, generally recommended as the minimum coverage, includes open perils protection. It covers all direct physical losses with certain exceptions such as earthquakes, floods and intentional loss.
HO-4, renters and tenants insurance, covers personal property rather than the structure itself. There are also exclusions for which types of perils are covered.
HO-5 covers open perils and adds a rider, which includes protection of personal property. Exceptions also apply.
HO-6 is for condos or co-ops. It is similar to HO-4, but also covers improvements you may have made to the dwelling.
HO-8 is for older homes. It insures the home for the repair cost or market value instead of the cost to replace it.

Let’s find your dream home now!

Take a look at these latest homes for sale in La Canada Flintridge:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 81. See more Real estate in the city of La Canada Flintridge.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$1,199,950 : 1131 Sheraton Drive, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,950 sq ft

Lot size: 9,536 sqft

Year built: 1951

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 2

Walk Score®: 72
$3,200,000 : 1830 Earlmont, La Canada Flintridge

4 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 4,122 sq ft

Lot size: 31,363 sqft

Year built: 1954

Parking spots: 3

Days on market: 2

Walk Score®: 31
$2,329,000 : 975 Regent Park Drive, La Canada Flintridge

5 beds, 3 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 4,698 sq ft

Lot size: 19,980 sqft

Year built: 1955

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 3

Walk Score®: 26
$1,295,000 : 4836 Revlon Drive, La Canada Flintridge

4 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 2,500 sq ft

Lot size: 8,019 sqft

Year built: 1949

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 54
$1,599,000 : 4902 Alta Canyada Road, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 3,069 sq ft

Lot size: 25,478 sqft

Year built: 1954

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 40
$769,000 : 4537 ROCKLAND Place, La Canada Flintridge

4 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,566 sq ft

Lot size: 6,599 sqft

Year built: 1951

Parking spots: 1

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 65
$1,248,000 : 1073 Oxford Way, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 2,192 sq ft

Lot size: 20,555 sqft

Year built: 1949

Parking spots: 6

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 17
$1,195,000 : 436 Paulette Place, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,112 sq ft

Lot size: 11,138 sqft

Year built: 1954

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 32
$949,949 : 935 Big Briar Way, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,878 sq ft

Lot size: 1.05 ac

Year built: 1967

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 5

Walk Score®: 8
$949,000 : 4618 La Canada Boulevard, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,973 sq ft

Lot size: 10,174 sqft

Year built: 1950

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 5

Walk Score®: 62

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

This post Home Buying – the Basics of Homeowners Insurance first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Home Buying is Like Shoe Buying

Fran Vernon — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:42 +0000

Home Buying is Like Shoe Buying

We have all heard the saying “one shoe fits all”. But, if you’ve ever looked for a Los Angeles home (to buy or to rent), you realize that the ”one size fits all” does not work when buying a home. It doesn’t work when shoe shopping, either, for that matter! Homes, like shoes, are very personal, and often emotionally-based purchases. Home buying is very personal.

Try as they might to create a home that will meet every need and every taste, home builders are aware that it just can’t be done. As with shoes, versatility lies in key components – simple design, elegant tones, and a combination of shine, style and comfort.

As with your shoe purchase, buying a Los Angeles home requires you to consider what is most important to you and your future plans. In addition, you will want to consider how and who will be living in the home, and how it will be used. When home buying, some people want more formal space, some prefer a more casual lifestyle. For most home buyers certain amenities are a must, and these amenities vary from buyer to buyer!

So … you can easily see that “one size does not fit all” when it comes to Los Angeles home buying!

Some considerations in your home search and purchase might be:

Is your preferred lifestyle one of an open design or cozy comfort?
Do you require modern storage options or the generally smaller capacity of a vintage style?
Are you an outdoor person? Do you prefer planned, pre-designed landscaping or a more creative, freestyle garden?
Do you prefer space over location, or vice versa?
Is this going to be your primary residence or will it be a vacation home?
Is remodeling or refurbishing something you want to do (or have the time and money to do), or would you prefer an “all done” or ”nearly done” property?
Can you identify and list your top “must haves” and bottom “least important” home criteria?

Of course, when you are considering buying a Los Angeles home, there are many other questions and considerations. We advise you to take your time in searching for a home. This will make you a more informed home buyer, and you will feel more comfortable, too, knowing that you did your “home work” before buying. Enjoy the journey as you find the home that is the perfect fit for you and your circumstances. And when you find the home that makes you want to click your heels so you can return? Make an offer! It’s like buying shoes … when you find the ones with the perfect fit and style – buy them!

So, if you are ready to start “trying on some shoes” — or “finding a home” as we say in the real estate business …

Here are some of the most recently listed homes in La Canada that you might consider:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 81. See more Real estate in the city of La Canada Flintridge.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$1,199,950 : 1131 Sheraton Drive, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,950 sq ft

Lot size: 9,536 sqft

Year built: 1951

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 2

Walk Score®: 72
$3,200,000 : 1830 Earlmont, La Canada Flintridge

4 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 4,122 sq ft

Lot size: 31,363 sqft

Year built: 1954

Parking spots: 3

Days on market: 2

Walk Score®: 31
$2,329,000 : 975 Regent Park Drive, La Canada Flintridge

5 beds, 3 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 4,698 sq ft

Lot size: 19,980 sqft

Year built: 1955

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 3

Walk Score®: 26
$1,295,000 : 4836 Revlon Drive, La Canada Flintridge

4 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 2,500 sq ft

Lot size: 8,019 sqft

Year built: 1949

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 54
$1,599,000 : 4902 Alta Canyada Road, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 3,069 sq ft

Lot size: 25,478 sqft

Year built: 1954

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 40
$769,000 : 4537 ROCKLAND Place, La Canada Flintridge

4 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,566 sq ft

Lot size: 6,599 sqft

Year built: 1951

Parking spots: 1

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 65
$1,248,000 : 1073 Oxford Way, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths

Home size: 2,192 sq ft

Lot size: 20,555 sqft

Year built: 1949

Parking spots: 6

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 17
$1,195,000 : 436 Paulette Place, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,112 sq ft

Lot size: 11,138 sqft

Year built: 1954

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 4

Walk Score®: 32
$949,949 : 935 Big Briar Way, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,878 sq ft

Lot size: 1.05 ac

Year built: 1967

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 5

Walk Score®: 8
$949,000 : 4618 La Canada Boulevard, La Canada Flintridge

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,973 sq ft

Lot size: 10,174 sqft

Year built: 1950

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 5

Walk Score®: 62

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

If we can help you find a home, please use our Home Finder Form

This post Home Buying is Like Shoe Buying first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Moving? Get to Know Your New Home and Neighbors

Fran Vernon — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:42 +0000

Moving? Get to Know Your New Home and Neighbors

When moving into your new Los Angeles home, and new neighborhood, you can feel the excitement and there is also a bit of apprehension. New friends, new locations – a new grocery store, a new doctor – all of the services that were familiar to you in your prior home may need to be reestablished in your new Los Angeles home and in your new neighborhood.

Moving to a new home means you have the opportunity to have new experiences and make new friends. Getting to know neighbors can be time-consuming, but can also be very worthwhile. In many Los Angeles neighborhoods, the neighbors help one another out and participate in the neighborhood watch program. A good neighbor literally can make your world a better place. Many people report the neighbors become lifetime friends.

Once you’ve gotten a bit acquainted with your new home, get to know the block better by taking a walk along your Los Angeles street. You are sure to meet a few neighbors along the way. Learn more about your new Los Angeles neighborhood by asking questions. Sometimes a local park or community center can be a valuable resource in making friends in your new neighborhood.

After a while in your new neighborhood, find a time to invite your new friends over. Keep it simple and concentrate on the friendship, not the decor nor party preparations. This can be a fun gathering for your neighbors, many of whom may not know each other.

You may find other ways to get involved in your local Los Angeles community, either from your new friends or by reading the local newspapers or online. Get involved at the local schools. Shop at the local markets, including the farmer’s markets. Volunteer, join a gym or local sports club. Use this new beginning to have fun while meeting new people with similar interests.

Remember, sometimes you make a new friend simply by giving a smile.

Looking for a new neighborhood?

Take a look at these most recent listings in Los Angeles:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 500+. See more Real estate in the city of Los Angeles.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$619,000 : 1569 DONALDSON ST, Los Angeles

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 5,985 sqft

Year built: 1953

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 58
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$769,000 : 980 S OXFORD AVE, Unit 402, Los Angeles

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 15,497 sqft

Year built: 2008

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 95
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78
$2,875,000 : 850 THAYER AVE, Los Angeles

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 2,736 sq ft

Lot size: 7,497 sqft

Year built: 1940

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$195,000 : 4614 Wall Street, Los Angeles

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 6,300 sqft

Year built: 1923

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 63
$297,500 : 1546 E 78TH ST, Los Angeles

3 beds, 2.0 baths

Home size: 1,173 sq ft

Lot size: 6,240 sqft

Year built: 1926

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$999,000 : 2302 Observatory Avenue, Los Angeles

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 6,979 sqft

Year built: 1920

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 69
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

This post Moving? Get to Know Your New Home and Neighbors first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Keeping Your Home Secure

Fran Vernon — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:42 +0000

Keeping Your Home Secure

Spring is in the air and that means vacation plans may not be far behind! Whether you are embarking on a weekend getaway or an extended trip, it’s important that you make arrangements to ensure the safety of your Los Angeles home. Many people do not realize the importance of keeping your home secure. Taking a few simple steps, and putting some thought into home security while you are away can avoid an unpleasant surprise and end to an otherwise perfect vacation getaway. Experts agree that taking a few precautions to ensure your Los Angeles home security can make the difference between your home being a target, or your home being safe and secure.

We have some suggestions for you for keeping your home secure before, during and after your vacation plans. They don’t take a lot of time, or money … but can make a difference for you.

Befriend a neighbor. Is there a Neighborhood Watch program in your area? If so, use the techniques of the program. If not, you are bound to have a neighbor who would be willing to watch over your home while you are away. Request that they notify you or the police if something alarming occurs or if they notice anything different or out of the ordinary.
Be careful not to “broadcast” your vacation plans until after they are complete. While you may want to share your trip with others, wait until your return. Experts recommend that you do not post your travel plans before or during your travels on social networking or social media sites or blogs (like Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, LinkedIn, The Real Estate Blog, etc). Do not leave notes on your front door, trash cans or mailbox, either.
It’s always best when your home appears to be occupied while you are away. Light timers, or maybe a timer on a radio can help make your home appear to be occupied. A well-maintained and well-lit home with timed lights and motion detectors can be a deterrent.
Make sure the exterior of your home is well lit. Consider adding additional lights that are activated by “motion detectors” – especially around doors.
Call your local sheriff or police department. Volunteer police patrols can be utilized.
Put in a “stop order” or “hold order” for mail and newspapers, unless you have a large, locking mailbox. Nothing says “I’m not home” more than a pile of newspapers on your driveway or at your front door, or stacks of uncollected mail.
Remove any hidden or spare keys from their “secret” hiding places while you are away.
Ask a friend or neighbor to drive by and periodically do a visual check-in on your home. Maybe your Los Angeles realtor could to that for you. If possible, they could walk around the perimeter of your property to check and make sure your home is secure.
Try using a deadbolt or locking mechanism on your garage door while you are away for long periods of time and secure any pet entrances. Perhaps unplug or disconnect your automatic garage door opener for additional security.
Let your home security company know of your vacation plans, and make sure your “call list” is up-to-date in the event of an emergency.
Make sure all fire detectors and smoke detectors have new, working batteries.
Arrange or move potted plants to receive watering while you are gone. Unkept or dying plants are another signal that you are away.

When you return, be sure to begin all suspended services again. You will also want to thank those who watched over your new home so they will feel so inclined when your next vacation comes up. A small, thoughtful gift would certainly be appropriate – a bouquet of flowers, home baked or store bought cake or specialty bread … anything that says “thank you” would certainly be appreciated.

Perhaps it’s time to look for a new Los Angeles home for sale.

Take a look at these recent homes on the market in Los Angeles:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 500+. See more Real estate in the city of Los Angeles.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$619,000 : 1569 DONALDSON ST, Los Angeles

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 5,985 sqft

Year built: 1953

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 58
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$769,000 : 980 S OXFORD AVE, Unit 402, Los Angeles

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 15,497 sqft

Year built: 2008

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 95
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78
$2,875,000 : 850 THAYER AVE, Los Angeles

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 2,736 sq ft

Lot size: 7,497 sqft

Year built: 1940

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$195,000 : 4614 Wall Street, Los Angeles

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 6,300 sqft

Year built: 1923

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 63
$297,500 : 1546 E 78TH ST, Los Angeles

3 beds, 2.0 baths

Home size: 1,173 sq ft

Lot size: 6,240 sqft

Year built: 1926

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$999,000 : 2302 Observatory Avenue, Los Angeles

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 6,979 sqft

Year built: 1920

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 69
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

This post Keeping Your Home Secure first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

2012 – An Affordable Time to Buy a Home

Fran Vernon — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:42 +0000

2012 – An Affordable Time to Buy a Home

As real estate agents, we are constantly asked – should I buy a home now or wait? Is it an affordable time to buy a home? Frankly, what we are seeing is a combination of historically low mortgage rates and a decline in home prices – together making home affordability within reach for many people.

This is great news for home buyers, provided they are able to qualify for a loan. What we are seeing with the lenders are stricter qualification guidelines thereby making a home loan more challenging. If you are thinking about buying a home, we recommend that you work with a mortgage specialist to determine your ability to qualify for a loan. Your lender holds the key to your home purchasing power.

The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI) report that nearly 76% of new and existing homes sold in the last quarter of 2011 could have been purchased by buyers earning $64,200 (the national median income).

The most affordable areas in the country are located in the Midwest. For the fourth quarter of 2011, the most affordable areas were: Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA (large metro) and Kokomo, IN (small metro). Not surprisingly, the western part of the United States has the highest concentration of the least affordable areas.

Want to know more? The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index: History of Least and Most Affordable Areas spreadsheet and other data can be found here.

Let’s find a home in Los Angeles for you!

Be sure to take a look at these recently listed Los Angeles homes for sale:

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 500+. See more Real estate in the city of Los Angeles.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$619,000 : 1569 DONALDSON ST, Los Angeles

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 5,985 sqft

Year built: 1953

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 58
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$769,000 : 980 S OXFORD AVE, Unit 402, Los Angeles

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 15,497 sqft

Year built: 2008

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 95
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78
$2,875,000 : 850 THAYER AVE, Los Angeles

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 2,736 sq ft

Lot size: 7,497 sqft

Year built: 1940

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$195,000 : 4614 Wall Street, Los Angeles

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 6,300 sqft

Year built: 1923

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 63
$297,500 : 1546 E 78TH ST, Los Angeles

3 beds, 2.0 baths

Home size: 1,173 sq ft

Lot size: 6,240 sqft

Year built: 1926

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$999,000 : 2302 Observatory Avenue, Los Angeles

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 6,979 sqft

Year built: 1920

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 69
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

This post 2012 – An Affordable Time to Buy a Home first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale

Green Home Market Expected to Grow

Fran Vernon — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:42 +0000

Green Home Market Expected to Grow

The latest trend in the residential building market is going “green.” Last week McGraw-Hill Construction revealed that 17% of residential single-family home building in 2011 was due to eco-friendly homes and upgrades, up from just 2% in 2005. Rates on the West Coast, North Midwest, and New England have experienced even stronger growth in the green home market.

McGraw-Hill Construction is projecting that this number is anticipated to continue to rise in the next five years with over 30% of “green” home building being forecasted for 2016. That translates to a large fiscal commitment and opportunity in an otherwise sagging construction business.

Beyond 2016, one third of builders believe over 90% of their projects will be “green.” Home buyers are seeking earth-friendly features in homes for sale, so home sellers and remodelers should take note of these statistics. The green home market is important.

Renovation work has also experienced an increase in “green” remodeling. Builders report that “green” home remodels are expected to rise in the next five years, according to the recent McGraw-Hill study done in conjunction with Waste Management and the National Association of Home Builders.

The benefits of a green home to buyers and sellers are obvious. Home sellers with “green” features are able to market these features to a prospective buyer. Increased consumer awareness has home buyers asking about “green” features in a home. Home buyers and home owners also realize that these “green” features also have a financial benefit, costing less money to operate a home’s utilities. Reduced waste can be another benefit of “green” construction. Environmental consciousness and awareness has made “green” building an important topic in today’s lifestyle discussions.

To get more information on the results of the Green Home Builders and Remodelers Study, go here: 2011/2012 Green Home Builders and Remodelers Survey Results Fact Sheet.

View the latest residential homes for sale in Los Angeles, and find a home today!

Showing properties 1 - 10 of 500+. See more Real estate in the city of Los Angeles.
(all data current as of 5/20/2013)

$619,000 : 1569 DONALDSON ST, Los Angeles

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Lot size: 5,985 sqft

Year built: 1953

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 58
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$769,000 : 980 S OXFORD AVE, Unit 402, Los Angeles

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 15,497 sqft

Year built: 2008

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 95
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78
$2,875,000 : 850 THAYER AVE, Los Angeles

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 2,736 sq ft

Lot size: 7,497 sqft

Year built: 1940

Parking spots: 2

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$195,000 : 4614 Wall Street, Los Angeles

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 6,300 sqft

Year built: 1923

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 63
$297,500 : 1546 E 78TH ST, Los Angeles

3 beds, 2.0 baths

Home size: 1,173 sq ft

Lot size: 6,240 sqft

Year built: 1926

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 65
$668,000 : 1225 ARMACOST AVE, Unit 101, Los Angeles

2 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,554 sq ft

Lot size: 17,232 sqft

Year built: 1991

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 75
$999,000 : 2302 Observatory Avenue, Los Angeles

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 6,979 sqft

Year built: 1920

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 69
$800,000 : 1591 West ADAMS Boulevard, Los Angeles

8 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 6,398 sq ft

Lot size: 9,113 sqft

Year built: 1914

Parking spots: 4

Days on market: 1

Walk Score®: 78

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Is your realtor designated “green”? Fran and Rowena can help you “go green”! View the EcoBroker profile

This post Green Home Market Expected to Grow first appeared on Los Angeles real estate - La Canada Real Estate & homes for sale