49 Florida Ave, Amsterdam NY
For sale: $895,000

Situated high above a bluff overlooking the Mohawk River and the upstate New York town of Amsterdam is a fortress. Imposing and dramatic, the building’s narrow windows, high turrets and limestone bricks look utterly medieval.

Which, of course, was the entire intent of the original architect.

In 1863, draft riots erupted throughout New York City during the Civil War. Such events led the U.S. to rely more and more on the National Guard to keep the peace at home. New York State, in particular, led the charge in creating home bases for the Guard. These armories were heavily Gothic and medieval in style — intended to inspire and drive fear into would-be agitators.

The Amsterdam Armory, also known as the Amsterdam Castle, fulfills its role quite well. Built in 1895, the imperial building served as the administration and training facility for the 46th Separate Company of the New York National Guard, which turned into the “G” Company of the 105th Infantry Regiment of the New York National Guard. In World War II, the 105th Infantry fought in Japan.

Following World War II, the armory continued to serve as the base of the Infantry until 1995, when the state sold the home to a private owner for $62,500. In 2005, after some updates, a new owner bought the home for $800,000 and transformed it into a bed-and-breakfast.

“My client did a restoration, [and] the largest nonprofit in the state, the Preservation League of New York, gave her an award for best restoration,” said listing agent Mike Franklin of Select Sotheby’s International Realty. “It won best bed-and-breakfast in the capital district, and that’s quite an honor considering the B&Bs there.”

The home is back on the market currently, ready to be another B&B or private residence. Measuring a whopping 36,000 square feet, the home gleams in its current state with restored hardwood floors, original stained glass and crown moldings. The officers’ rooms serve as bedrooms, and commercial spaces — including a basement kitchen, locker rooms and full gym — are also in the home. A drill and vehicle maintenance shed are also on the property.

Related: 

• House of the Week: Decommisioned Missile Silo for Sale
• House of the Week: Pacific Northwest Castle in the Woods
• House of the Week: Lighthouse in Chesapeake Bay

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Source: IMDb

Celebrity homes often leave small reminders of the person who lived there — from a framed jersey to a shiny plaque on the wall. Leona Lewis’ home paints the picture of a Grammy-nominated pop star with a love for glitz and glam. Step inside the front the door and behold a grand piano beneath a sparkling chandelier and a painting, perhaps a self-portrait of the chart-topping British songstress. Move into the dining room and be met with another vintage chandelier over a mantel framed with, that’s right, angel wings.

Lewis purchased the West Hollywood Hills property for $1.85 million in 2009 under her father’s name (it’s unclear whether Aural “Joe” Lewis bought the place for his daughter or just listed his name on deed to preserve the rising star’s privacy). Two years later, Lewis listed the place for $2.5 million and almost sold it. According to the listing description, the buyer couldn’t get loan approval.

This didn’t deter Lewis from selling, however. She quickly dropped her asking price by $300,000, and eight months later, the price cut paid off. Lewis sold the place this month for $2.0735 million.

The Nichols Canyon estate is located in a private, gated enclave. Although described by real estate agent Annie Challis as a “mini estate,” the home measures 3,946 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 4 baths. Built in 1999, the interior has been remodeled with magazine-worthy white decor and finishes throughout. The property spans .75 acres with a large pool and lushly landscaped gardens.

Lewis made her entrance into the pop music scene after winning British talent competition “The X Factor.” She has since been nominated for three Grammys and seven Brit Awards (the British equivalent to the Grammy Awards), with 20 million record sales under her belt.

Grant Linscott of Keller Williams Realty represented the buyer.

Related:

• Leona Lewis Lists Home for $2.5 Million
• DJ Calvin Harris Buys $7 Million Home in Hollywood Hills
• Report: Katy Perry Buys Mid-Century Modern in Hollywood Hills

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.

’50s Shelter

16346 Ashworth Ave N, Shoreline, WA
For sale: $365,000

This 1950s home includes a bomb shelter that has remained untouched and includes many original “survival” items. The rest of the house may not be designed for the end of the world, but it’s an ideal family home — updated, spacious and offering 3 bedrooms.

Forest Hideout

262 Tony’s Xrds, Drifting, PA
For sale: $159,473

A residence described as an “impenetrable fortress” could likely handle a scourge of zombies. The home was designed by a “security mastermind” and includes three stainless steel fortified entry doors and a water purification and filtration system.

40 Feet Under

87 Hale Hill Ln, Lewis, NY
For sale: $750,000

Strong enough to host the Atlas nuclear missile in the 1960s, this home will keep you safe in a living space with steel walls 40 feet underground. Although the missile silo is livable, it still holds many of the original features of the launch pad, including the big red launch button.

Survival Bunker

9393 Kasias Trl, Snowflake, AZ
For sale: $50,000

Not only does this property include a “survival bunker,” but the owner went to lengths to disguise it. The bunker is located at the end of a desert road, at a “seemingly unfinished construction site.” The well house hides the entrance to the two-room steel-and-concrete bunker, which also includes a 10-foot by 10-foot bank vault.

Luxury Home and Bomb Shelter

undisclosed address, Santa Fe, NM
For sale: $2.495 million

The Spanish-style mansion is stunning, but it didn’t make the list for its tile floors and wood-beamed ceilings but for the bomb shelter on the property. Two cellar doors open to reveal the perfect place to hide out while a meteorite crashes to Earth.

Titan-strong

20745 Titan Rd. Sturgis SD
For sale: $275,000

If living below ground isn’t appealing, try an above-ground missile silo: This one in Sturgis, SD once held a Titan missile and now houses a metal shop with living quarters. The Titan rockets were designed to destroy incoming enemy missiles. They were hosted in silos throughout the country before their dismantling in the late 1980s.

Earth Station

18773 Cachagua Rd, Carmel Valley, CA
For sale: $1.5 million

The Jamesburg Earth Station received the first images from the moon in 1969. The station was built to “military specifications” and able to withstand a 5-megaton nuclear blast. End of the world survival home? No problem. The 60-acre lot also features a separate home and barn.

Related: 

• Missile Silo Home for Sale
• Home of the Week: Arizona Cave Home
• Hideouts and Homes of the Mob

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Source: IMDb

A home can serve as a blank canvas for each new owner, but sometimes memories seem trapped in its walls indefinitely. Take, for example, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s former Pacific Palisades home.

He and wife Maria Shriver lived in the house from 1986 to 2003, according to the Los Angeles Times. In 2011, when the property re-hit the market, Schwarzenegger’s name came up — but not just for being a former celebrity owner. The politician’s affair with his housekeeper, who worked in the home for 20 years, had surfaced.

Perhaps now the story can be put to rest, as the house just sold for $12.9 million.

Designed in a Mediterranean style typical of homes in the area, the 10,000-square-foot villa is located at the end of a long gated driveway. It was built in 1982 but has been remodeled since, with a total of 9 bedrooms, 9.5 baths, a large pool, cabana and championship-size tennis court. The grounds, spanning 2.48 acres, include expansive lawns, gardens and a duck pond. The property also provides direct access to Will Rogers State Historic Park horse trails and polo fields.

In 2002, Schwarzenegger and Shriver purchased another Brentwood home, which they still own today. According to the NY Daily News, the couple are not in a rush to finalize their divorce, despite their public breakup after news broke that Schwarzenegger had fathered a child with the housekeeper.

Related:

• Maria Shriver & Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Former Compound Listed at $23 Million
• Tom Hanks Lists in Pacific Palisades
• Hugh Hefner, Crystal Harris Own First Home as Husband & Wife

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate hovered between 3.94 and 3.84 percent for the majority of the week, dropping to as low as 3.79 percent on Friday.

“Rates dipped this week after rising for six consecutive weeks on anticipation that the Fed may slow the pace of the quantitative easing stimulus program early,” said Erin Lantz, director of Zillow Mortgage Marketplace. “This coming week, rate movements will be guided by Wednesday’s press conference to discuss the FOMC’s [Federal Open Market Committee] latest meeting. If Chairman Ben Bernanke suggests the Fed is considering accelerating the wind-down of the stimulus program, we expect rates to continue to climb. If, instead, Bernanke expresses renewed concerns about the strength of the economic recovery and implies that a longer stimulus period is needed, then rates may retreat closer to levels we saw through the first four months of the year.”

Additionally, the 15-year fixed mortgage rate this morning was 2.97 percent, and for 5/1 ARMs, the rate was 2.63 percent.

What are the rates right now? Check Zillow Mortgage Marketplace for up-to-the-minute mortgage rates for your state.

*The weekly rate chart illustrates the average 30-year fixed interest rate in six-hour intervals.

Source: The Real Deal

Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky are moving on up, going from a nearly $5 million pad to $10 million-plus place.

They bought their new place in The Whitman, a secure building on East 26th Street, for $10.5 million in early March, which led them to list their former home at the nearby Grand Madison for $4.475 million. The couple didn’t move far; both buildings are located in the Flatiron District and have views of Madison Square Park.

Mezvinsky bought the Grand Madison condo in 2008 for $4 million, reported the Real Deal. The couple had been living there since their marriage in 2010 until very recently.

The 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath has a “well laid out floor plan that is perfectly suited to entertaining and gracious living.” A large entry leads to the living area, with 10-foot ceilings and a wall of windows. An updated kitchen has new appliances, and the master suite includes double sinks, separate steam shower and a soaking tub.

The listing is held by Marcy Grau of Stribling.

Related: 

• What Celebrities Want in NY Real Estate
• Woolworth Mansion, Once for Sale, Now for Rent
• Claire Danes Quietly Purchases West Village Townhouse

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Around the country, some lenders are offering 90 percent financing again on all loan types. For example, San Francisco-based RPM Mortgage resumed offering “piggyback” loans in the first quarter of 2013 after discontinuing them during the height of the credit crisis in late 2007, according to Vice President Julian Hebron. (A piggyback loan enables a home buyer to put only 10 percent down without having to buy mortgage insurance. This is done by getting two loans totaling 90 percent.)

In Monroe, NY, Rosalie Cook of Weichert Realtors says she is seeing buyer down payments range from all cash to as little as 5 percent. Mortgage lender Tom Gildea of Prospect Lending in Rockland County, NY agrees, saying that he’s doing loans with as little as 5 percent down “all day long.” Those 5 percent down deals are with private mortgage insurance, are only for conforming loans (less than $417,000) and are reserved for borrowers with excellent credit, verifiable income and little debt.

Mortgages used to be easy

Before the credit crisis of the mid-2000s, getting a home loan was simple. Your down payment was small — if you even had to make one. To qualify, all you had to do was “state” your income and sign on the dotted line.

Of course, that was the kind of lending that got us into the credit crisis. After the bust, many lenders started requiring a minimum of 20 percent down. Coming up with that much money was a stumbling block for many would-be home buyers. In addition, buyers were already worried about the economy or were uncertain about their jobs, making buying a home not only difficult but also downright scary.

The result: Even though home prices had plummeted and mortgage rates were at historic lows, many potential buyers were forced to sit on the sidelines for years.

Today, many real estate markets around the country are heating up again. While the economic recovery still has its fits and starts, people are feeling confident about their jobs. They’re watching their 401(k) and stock portfolios climb back to pre-2008 levels. And so, they’re out looking for homes to buy again.

Lenders have loosened up but are still cautious

Mortgage lenders are seeing these trends, too, which is why they’re starting to ease down payment restrictions. This time around, though, lenders are much more discerning about who gets to put 10 percent down. As RPM Mortgage’s Hebron puts it: To qualify, your monthly housing, car, student loan, and credit card debt can’t be higher than 45 percent of your monthly income. And you must have a credit score above 700.

The good news is that more potential buyers who otherwise would have been shut out of the market, due to the lack of a 20 percent down payment, can now jump in.

Leveraging cheap money

Even if you have the 20 percent to put down, you might consider opting for a 10 percent down payment instead. For instance, if you’re buying a home that needs a lot of work, you could put 10 percent down and use the other 10 percent to finance improvements. You might even consider investing that 10 percent in stocks or mutual funds, though that comes with obvious risks.

A 10 percent down payment has its disadvantages, too. If you put just 10 percent down and home prices decline later, you could end up underwater — owing more on the mortgage than your home is worth. When that happens, you could be stuck in your home, unable to sell — just as so many homeowners were after the housing crisis kicked in around 2006-2007.

Also, if you have little equity and you go to sell, you could face another problem. The size of your loan, along with the costs of selling your property, could total more than the sale price, a financial hit that can be tough to absorb.

If you qualify for a 10 percent down payment, and it’s the only way you can get into a home, it may be worth the potential risks. Bottom line: Talk to your mortgage professional and real estate agent about your options. Think strategically and long-term about what you’re doing. Don’t just make a 10 percent down payment because you can.

Related:

• Is an FHA Loan Right for You?
• 10 Mortgage Misconceptions Explained
• Mortgage Financing: Loan Products 101

Brendon DeSimone is a Realtor and one of the nation’s leading real estate experts.  He has collaborated on multiple real estate books and his expert advice is regularly sought out by print, online and television media outlets including FOX News, CNBC, Good Morning America and Forbes. An avid investor himself, Brendon owns real estate around the US and abroad and is licensed to sell in California and New York. You can find Brendon on Facebook or follow him on Twitter or Google Plus.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

Out of the shadows he emerges, sax in hand, dark sunglasses shading his face. Not loud or intrusive, David Sanborn’s cool demeanor sets the tone for the smooth notes he’s about to play.

The six-time Grammy winner seems at home on a dimly lit stage, or in his 20th-century brownstone in Lincoln Square. Much like the music flowing from his saxophone, Sanborn’s home speaks for itself: modern yet classic, grand yet unassuming.

Located at 135 W 69th St, New York, NY 10023 on one of the Upper West Side’s handsomest row of townhouses, the place is now on the market for a cool $12 million. Measuring 19 feet wide, it looks modest from the street, but with 13 rooms, it’s anything but small.

The townhouse has been renovated with a well-appointed chef’s kitchen and spa-like baths. Its early 1900s character also remains with original millwork, coffered ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces and period-centric chandeliers in nearly every room.

But perhaps the most fitting room for the musician, who earned a Grammy for Best R&B Instrumental Performance with his single “All I Need Is You,” is the top-floor music studio.

“We went to great lengths to build the soundproof studio,” Sandborn said in a NY Daily News report. “We blew off firecrackers to test it. No one heard a thing.”

According to reports, Sanborn has lived in the area since he moved to New York City in the early ’70s. In that time, he has played jazz shows at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola in Time Warner Center and been seen shopping and eating at local establishments.

Sanborn recently released a new album, “Quartette Humaine,” which he recorded with pianist Bob James.

The listing is held by Tom Postilio, Mickey Conlon and Shaun Osher of CORE.

Related:

• ‘Tonight Show’ Bandleader Rickey Minor Selling Major Mansion
• Famous Homes Where American Music History Was Made
• Another Rascal Flatts Band Member Selling Tennessee Home

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here. 

You are in desperate need of organization.

Getting rid of the clutter may sound like an insurmountable task but, according to professional organizer Elisa Adams, it’s actually the key to living a less stressful life.

“If people are truly disorganized, getting organized can sound like a stressful endeavor,” she said. “That’s why I tell people you need to set goals and conquer organizational tasks one step at a time. If your desk is in chaos, tell yourself you’ll have the whole thing organized by the end of the month and then tackle one drawer every Saturday morning. Getting those first couple of drawers cleaned will motivate you to continue the job.”

Karen Roehl, clutter coach and owner of Kirkland, WA-based Clear Living Inc., says the key to getting organized is making mindful decisions about the things in your life.

“I try to get people to take that first step by physically moving things out of a space,” Roehl said. “Things tend to cycle into our lives — gifts, purchases, things we inherit — but a lot of people don’t have a system for cycling things out of their lives. I encourage people to take control by mindfully choosing everything in their lives. That’s the first step toward making a space that looks and functions the way they want it to look and function.”

Tame the paper trail

Roehl and Adams say getting control of paper is a common problem. Catalogs, newspapers, junk mail, personal correspondence, bank statements, bills, kids’ homework — it all comes into your house, but unless you have a good system for handling it, all that paper can become overwhelming.

To reduce the paper piles in your home, try one or more of these tips:

• Carry junk mail straight from the mailbox to the recycling bin. Don’t even waste time opening it.
• Keep only supplies you need on a daily basis on your desktop or work table.
• Set up a file, basket or drawer for each member of your household. Sort mail, papers to sign, reading materials and notes into each container.
• Set limits. Allow newspapers and magazines to remain in the house for a specific number of days. At the end of that period, dispose of them — read or not. Have a shelf or basket where you can store a set number of magazines and catalogs. In order to add one, you have to get rid of another.
• Clip interesting articles from magazines to read later. Put them in a “to read” file or basket; dispose of the bulky magazines.
• Open bills as soon as you get them and write the due date on the outside of the envelope. Store the bills in order due in a folder or file drawer. Then, set an evening or afternoon once a week when you pay bills. If you do it regularly, it won’t seem so overwhelming.

Take your time

“Getting organized isn’t generally something that happens overnight. The clutter certainly didn’t get there overnight,” Roehl said. “People need to understand that getting organized is a process. It involves making a lot of decisions and sometimes dealing with some emotional baggage.”

If dealing with the clutter is too much for you to take on yourself, hire a pro. Seek out a professional organizer who has the expertise, skill set and personality that best suit you and your goals. Some professional organizers offer a wide range of services, while others specialize in creating custom filing systems or organizing collections and memorabilia. The National Association of Professional Organizers may be able to direct you to a qualified organizer in your area.

Related:

• Add Some Organization to Unruly Junk Drawers
• 10 Ways to Tame Craft Room Messes
• 8 Inexpensive Ways to Perk Up Your Porch

Mary Boone is a freelance writer for Zillow Blog. Read more from her here.

One of America’s most notorious gangsters didn’t go down in a gunfight, but died of heart failure in a luxe Miami Beach mansion.

Al Capone’s last years were spent at the Palm Island residence in relative anonymity. It’s where he decided to retire and reportedly where he planned his final Chicago event: the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. The home served as his alibi. Capone made sure everyone saw him in South Beach the day of the murders.

Capone’s notorious final residence recently sold for $7,431,750, according to property records. It was listed in 2012 for $9.95 million.

Capone reportedly purchased the home for $40,000 cash from Clarence Busch of the Anheuser-Busch family. Capone set about making the enormous 30,000-square-foot property his own, adding a 30-by-60-foot pool, a two-story cabana pool house — to house his guards — as well as another guesthouse and gated guard house in the front of the mansion.

Listed as one of America’s Most Wanted criminals, Capone had reason to add numerous guards, but the mobster also suffered from syphilis in his later years and was reportedly paranoid that he would be arrested or attacked at any moment. Even the guards gave him no peace; historians say Capone’s final years were not the happiest. He spent his final days in the guest bedroom in the front of the house where he could always see who was coming and going.

Capone’s home has only passed through a few owners since and was recently completely renovated while still maintaining the Havana style.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Related:

• Ma Barker’s Florida Shootout Home for Sale
• Al Capone’s Chicago Home
• Homes and Hideouts of the Mob

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Source: People.com

With a brand-new Santa Barbara estate, an equestrian estate in Hidden Valley and another home in Beverly Hills, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi don’t really need a penthouse, do they?

That may have been the conversation that led the couple to list their penthouse in the prestigious Somerset building in Beverly Hills. The condo just hit the market for $899,000. According to property records, DeGeneres bought 200 North Swall Dr PH 53 just three years ago for $835,000. That’s a small chunk of change for someone like DeGeneres. The daytime host and comedian, along with her actress wife, just dropped $26.5 million on the Saladino Villa in Montecito. Last year, the pair sold their Hollywood Hills compound for $49 million.

DeGeneres likely bought the condo for convenience, or due to the low price point, the condo may have been a place for staff or family. (The Real Estalker blog reported on Oprah snagging a relatively modest home in Nashville, likely for staff or family.) The Somerset is situated in downtown Beverly Hills, nestled between the 90210 ZIP code’s trendy shops and eateries, with a paparazzi-proof doorman keeping an eye on visitors around the clock. The building’s amenities include a 24-hour concierge, pool, spa, gym, sun deck and valet parking.

The light-filled, corner penthouse measures 1,683 square feet and has views of “the mountains and trees.” A dramatic entry leads to an open living and dining area with fireplace and eat-in kitchen. Both of the 2 bedrooms are en-suite with full closets.

Related:

• Report: Ellen & Portia Buy in Montecito
• Ellen & Portia Sell Brad Pitt’s Malibu Home, One Year After Buying
• Ryan Seacrest Buys Ellen DeGeneres’ Custom Estate for $49M

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Sunny in Savannah

A glass of OJ and newspaper in hand seem fitting for this classic, sun-filled breakfast table.

Head in the clouds

With a 180-degree view of Deer Valley and Park City Mountain Resort’s ski runs, you can plan your route down the slopes over a high-protein meal.

Booth, please!

A distressed wood table and sleek booth seats are a contemporary take on a ’50s diner.

Bench by the bay

Did you put in your omelet order? With a built-in banquette seat, you can watch the chef in this newly remodeled Cape Cod kitchen.

Timeless tapestries

With a rich wood table and a rod-iron light fixture, this space lends itself to a cup of dark roast or a small dinner gathering.

Art deco dreamin’

A triangle-shaped table and pops of color mix the best of the Art Deco period and the ’80s in this kitchen.

Tea & crumpets

Royal family in town? This Victorian-style tea room is located in a Washington DC row house.

Striped simplicity

This L-shaped window seat provides enough room for the whole family without having to use the formal dining room.

See more breakfast nooks on Zillow Digs!

Related:

• How to Update Your Kitchen for Less
• Hottest Trend This Season: Traditional Kitchens
• Create a Pro-Style Kitchen in Your Home

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here. 

You’ll see this spot nationwide all summer, on networks such as HGTV, CNN, A&E and Lifetime; you might also catch it online at some of your favorite sites. Check out both of our current TV spots here.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Our friends at LearnVest offer sound financial tips and advice for every aspect of life. Here’s some budgeting tips for gardening at home this summer.

If you are fortunate enough to have outdoor space — be it a fire escape, patio or yard — then you know just how much of your disposable income can be spent beautifying it.

To say nothing of the decisions required: Plants! Planters! Grass or mulch? And will I kill all of those pretty flowers I just brought home? The options are expansive — and expensive.

But you can have a beautiful outdoor space on a budget. Lisa Cangialosi, owner of New York-based landscape design company When in Bloom Inc., offers up nine creative ways to stay within your means this summer, no matter how big a patch of earth you have to tend to.

Know thy space

Browsing the local nursery without a plan is like shopping on an empty stomach: It can result in major buyer’s remorse — not to mention unhappy blooms.

The people in front of the camera get the glory (and the final rose), but most often it’s the people behind the camera that get the biggest paycheck.

Such is the case with Martin Hilton, executive producer of super popular dating-reality show “The Bachelor.” He joined as a producer in 2003, and has been hooked ever since.

Apparently Hilton likes pseudo-dating shows; his producer credits also include a short-lived show called “The Cougar.” His wife, Elizabeth Hilton, has also had bit roles on shows like “ER” and “Private Practice” with fictional romances of their own.

According to the Real Estalker blog, the two recently dropped $2.75 million on a home previously owned by Julie Hermelin and Mitchell Frank, both veterans of the L.A. music scene. Hermelin made his mark in music video production, while Frank owned the music club that gave the “Foo Fighters” their start.

The property in question is located in Los Feliz and, like many of the homes in the area, is built in a Mediterranean-influenced style. Constructed in 1922, the home sits on a third of an acre adjacent to Laughlin Park. Interior shots and listing details show the home has been completely renovated, with high-end appliances added to the kitchen and an newly opened-floor plan flowing into outdoor living spaces. The 4-bed, 4.5-bath house measures 3,805 square feet.

Related: 

• Rent This TV-Set Home and Live Like a ‘Bachelor’ or ‘Bachelorette’
• This Home Hosts ‘The Bachelor’ and ‘Bachelor Pad’
• ‘The Bachelorette’ Home in Charlotte, NC For Sale

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Source: IMDb

At first glance, the Pacific Palisades home is classic — a comfortable mansion appropriately priced for the area, but it doesn’t look like the home belonging to an actor like Tom Hanks.

That’s because the home at 956 Corsica Dr, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 is just one of three properties the veteran actor owns in the area with wife Rita Wilson. The couple bought a more spectacular (and star-worthy) contemporary home three years ago for $26 million. They also own another property that they picked up in 2010 for $1.45 million, and a prime Malibu Colony home that they bought in 1991.

The couple bought this home earlier in their acting careers in 1988, right on the heels of Hanks’ Oscar nomination for “Big.” Hanks was just coming into his own as a Hollywood star, after his roles in “Splash,” “The Money Pit” and “Dragnet.” Today, a string of popular movies include his name on the credits. Hanks and Wilson appeared in “Sleepless in Seattle” together in 1993.

Hanks’ Pacific Palisades home is described as a “legendary villa” hidden behind privacy walls and hedges. Built in 1929, the classic house has decorated archways and frescoed ceilings with chandeliers. The highlight of the home is the many loggias and patios — each surrounded by lush greenery and gardens.

The Spanish-style home measures 6,289 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. The master suite includes a fireplace, private beauty salon and opens up to a terrace with ocean views.

Related:

• Matt Damon Picks Up New Place in Pacific Palisades
• Jodie Foster Lists Renovated Bird Streets Home
• Jim Carrey Sells Malibu Place for $13.4 Million

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Each month, past San Diego State University lecturer and Zillow Blog contributor Leonard Baron answers two questions from readers regarding buying, selling and investing. Have a question? Send it to Leonard@ProfessorBaron.com

Hedge funds crowding out real estate buyers

Hi Leonard — We are first-time buyers in Phoenix and can’t purchase because many hedge funds seem to be buying all the properties we want. We’re really frustrated and have started offering on properties that are not our top picks, just in hopes to at least buy something. But we are also considering just holding off for a while and staying renters. How long do you think it will be until the hedge funds stop ruining the market for all of us? Maria P., Phoenix, AZ

Well Maria, you’re not alone. In fact, many markets are short on inventory. The real bummer for buyers like yourself is that both prices and interest rates are up. However, don’t rush to buy property. You should buy the right property for you, for all the right reasons that are important to you. Don’t buy a property if you don’t “love” it. So even with the increasing prices and interest rates, you’re probably best off to keep searching for a great-fit property that you will own for a long time instead of buying something that’s not right for you.

Many hedge funds are learning that owning and managing individual rental properties is not as easy nor as profitable as they’d hoped. The problem for buyers is that the hedge fund managers make money lining up investors and buying the properties (think acquisition fees, management fees, asset management fees, etc.), and they get those fees regardless of how good or bad the investment actually works out for their investors.

So that’s not much of an incentive for them to stop buying, even though the returns can’t be all that good. However, in the next few years most of those funds will probably realize that individual properties are not the great investments they originally penciled out and will probably start dumping properties so individuals like you can buy them.

Tax guidance: Grandparent gifting property

Hi Professor — My grandfather is getting very old, and he is going to give/gift an investment rental property he’s owned forever to me in the next couple of weeks as he’s unfortunately going into hospice. I don’t know much about the tax issues and inheritance issues, but Grandpa has instructed me to get guidance, and I’m wondering if I need to do something before he passes. Joshua N., Arlington, TX

Hi Joshua — First and foremost I’m sorry to hear about your grandfather’s condition, but hopefully he’s lived a good life and is in comfortable surroundings. Also, always get professional tax advice; my guidance is just general information.

Yes, you absolutely need to contact a certified public accountant or lawyer ASAP. There are several issues, from the property income tax basis and depreciation amounts, to inheritance taxes and maybe even Texas property tax issues. And there are possibly probate court issues too.

One major issue is that if the transfer occurs before his passing, the current federal income tax basis on the property will transfer to you. That means if you sell the property in the next few years, you’ll probably have a huge tax bill. If you inherit the property after he passes, your federal income tax basis will be the “stepped up” current market value, so if you sell the property, the tax impacts should be minimal. Also, if you inherit the property, you can start taking depreciation expense on the new “stepped up” basis, which you won’t be able to do if he gifts you the property before death. And that could be a lot of tax savings to you for decades.

There may also be state property tax issues that should be addressed related to the transfer. And there could be state and/or federal inheritance tax issues that need to be addressed.

Also, does he have a revocable living trust (so his assets can pass to his beneficiaries outside of probate court)? This keeps the distribution of assets private and probably saves on court costs, so you want to address that issue with a lawyer, as it may take a week or two to set up a trust and transfer assets (cost should be $2,000 to $3,000).

There are lots of issues related to the transfer of any assets before and/or upon death. Spending a little money on competent guidance could save you tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in income taxes, property taxes and court fees over time. Grandpa is trying to help you one last time. Now follow his wishes and get on it!

Related:

• Real Estate Q&A: Revocable Trusts and Wrap-Around Mortgages
• Tax Savings: Rental Property Depreciation Explained
• Rental Property Investing 101

Leonard Baron, MBA, is America’s Real Estate Professor®. His unbiased, neutral and inexpensive “Real Estate Ownership, Investment and Due Diligence 101” textbook teaches real estate owners how to make smart and safe purchase decisions.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

Source: IMDb

For a celebrity known for keeping her private life private, a home can serve as a window into the past. Such is the case with Jodie Foster’s Hollywood Hills home, now on the market for $6.399 million.

The 50-year-old actress, director and producer has let her resume do most of the talking — from her breakthrough Coppertone commercial at age 3, to her graduation from Yale with honors and two Academy Awards. But her personal life made headlines while she was living at 9219 Flicker Way, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Foster was set to play the lead in “Double Jeopardy” when, according to People magazine, producer Leonard Goldberg got a note saying she was dropping out of the movie “for medical reasons.” Foster offered no further explanation at the time.

But word quickly spread that she was pregnant with her first son, Charlie, raising questions about paternity and conception. Fortunately, Foster had an escape from the paparazzi in her new Spanish villa, which could be discretely accessed from a rear-gated driveway.

The home, located in the distinguished Bird Streets, has 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half-baths and an attached guest suite — plenty of room for her new baby and girlfriend at the time, Cydney Bernard.

“The Silence of the Lambs” star reportedly updated part of the home soon after she bought it in 1997, while maintaining its 1930s Spanish style. Overhead beams, brick patios and a backyard pool are a few highlights, as well as a large media screening/kids’ play room.

With her second son, Christopher “Kit” Foster, entering the teenage years, Foster isn’t an empty nester quite yet. Last year she bought a new Beverly Hills home for $11.75 million, which will likely become her new primary residence.

Related:

• Kristen Stewart’s Mom Drops Nearly $1 Million on Basic Hollywood Hills Home
• Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally List Bird Streets Home
• ‘Anna Karenina’ Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson Buys in Hollywood Hills

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.

This April, Zillow celebrated the launch of the new home improvement platform, Zillow Digs, by giving away hundreds of $25 instant-win gift cards and one grand prize of $10,000 in the “Zillow Digs Instant Win and Sweepstakes.”

Today, after much anticipation, we are excited to announce this year’s lucky winner is Jason from Pittsburgh.

Jason (pictured with his fiancée below) discovered Zillow Digs while shopping for homes on Zillow. He is a frequent user and fan of Zillow’s draw your own search area feature and enjoys saving his favorite homes for future browsing. His winning strategy included earning extra entries by sharing the “Zillow Digs Instant Win and Sweepstakes” on Facebook and Twitter, as well as answering the “Question of the Day” multiple times.

“We will use the money to help with a down payment on our very first house,” Jason said.

Congratulations to Jason, and all of the instant-win recipients. We’d also like to say a big Zillow “thanks” to everyone who took the time to enter the Zillow Digs Sweepstakes.

Stay tuned to Zillow’s Facebook page for more exciting giveaways and to keep up with the latest Zillow news.

Calhoun, GA

281 Buck Blvd SE, Calhoun, GA 
For sale: $112,900

“Bask in the sun, poolside,” writes real estate agent Kay Fuller in the listing description for this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home. Spanning half an acre, the property includes a screened-in porch overlooking a manicured rose garden.

Houston, TX

16722 Royal Mile Ln, Houston, TX 
For sale: $114,900

Built in 1975, this Houston home has received several upgrades including a master jetted tub and “rain forest”-style shower. The backyard is also a main selling point with a covered patio, pool, waterslide and spa.

Tucson, AZ

4112 E Market St, Tucson, AZ 
For sale: $109,000

This 1,008-square-foot home was built in 2001 and features an updated kitchen, new carpet and fresh interior paint. A custom pool and covered patio also provide a way to be outside while staying cool in the summer.

Sumner, MI

951 Lynn St, Sumner, MI 
For sale: $92,900

About an hour from Grand Rapids, this 3-bedroom home comes with an attached two-car garage and a fully fenced backyard. The house last sold for $87,000 in 2007.

Orleans, IN

612 E Harding St, Orleans, IN 
For sale: $114,900

Listing agent Debra Suddarth says this ranch-style home is “ready for summer” with a large backyard pool shaded by trees on a corner lot. Originally listed for $129,900 in 2011, the home has received a series of price cuts. It’s also near a good school, ideal for a starter family home.

Related:

• 10 Amazing Swimming Pools
• Holy Pool, Batman! Illinois Home’s Pool Has Bat Symbol
• Break Out the Speedos With These Indoor Pools

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.

The “Sex and the City” apartment

Sarah Jessica Parker’s townhome

Source: IMDb

Carrie Bradshaw may be fictional, but her apartment is as real as it comes, and — like the “Sex and the City” character’s shoe collection — it’s fabulous.

But is it as fabulous as the apartment owned by Sarah Jessica Parker, the actress who plays Carrie?

Let’s compare the two.

The contenders

The “Sex and the City” townhome, located at 64 Perry St, New York NY
Parker’s townhome, located at 20 E 10th St, New York NY

Price

On “Sex and the City,” Carrie was renting a 1-bedroom apartment on the Upper East Side. In reality, the building used for exterior shots of her apartment is a townhome in the West Village. The townhouse was on the market last year for $9.65 million, which is pretty pricey, but it doesn’t hold a candle to SJP’s $24.95 million townhouse, which is on the market now. Sorry, Carrie.

Winner: Parker’s apartment.

Size

In one corner we have the “Sex and the City” townhome, weighing in at 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 3,938 square feet of living space.

In the other corner of the ring, Parker’s townhome has 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms and measures 5,178 square feet.

Winner: SJP for the prize, again.

Glam factor

The first thing going for the ‘SATC’ townhome is its Hollywood factor — any home used for a film or TV show ups the interest. Other appealing factors: a spot on a “coveted” tree-lined street surrounded by other historic homes, a south-facing garden, herringbone floors, 6 fireplaces and architect Robert Mook, who designed the home in 1866. Double parlors at the front have 12-foot-plus ceilings and ornate, gold moldings.

Parker’s townhouse is just as glamorous in its Greenwich Village location. The home also boasts double parlors with 12-foot ceilings and a south-facing garden and terrace, as well as 7 fireplaces. The house is also four stories with a full-floor master suite.

Winner: We’re going to have to go with “Sex and the City” townhome purely for the gold moldings and framed mirrors. Glamorous indeed.

Overall winner

It’s hard to tell here — Parker’s home is clearly the winner in size and price, but the “Sex and the City” townhome already sold — and for almost at its asking price. Final result? We’ll call it a tie!

Related:

• Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick List Townhome for $25 Million
• Madonna Sells Upper West Side Duplex for $19 Million
• This Is Manhattan’s Most Expensive Home — For Sale at $125 Million

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

87 Hale Hill Ln, Lewis NY
For sale: $750,000

It’s the one home where curb appeal doesn’t matter, quips listing agent Brian Dominic of Select Sotheby’s International Realty.

He’s right: At first glance, the home in upstate New York isn’t anything more than a steel door in the middle of the Adirondacks. But it’s below the ground that matters.

Forty feet underground is the actual residence, set in a decommissioned missile silo. A dozen or so are scattered through the country — one popped up for sale in Saranac, NY in December 2011. Unlike the other silos, explains Dominic, this one remains true to its original function.

“The gentleman who bought it — he’s an Australian architect — had been looking for an unique property and came upon this one,” he said. “He thinks it’s an amazing piece of history, so he didn’t want to change it; he wanted to restore it.”

That meant sourcing original silo parts and cleaning up the rust on existing mechanics. The big red launch button? It’s still there on the control panel in the bedroom, which was once Launch Control Center Two.

“There’s an actual launch control desk, and he restored it,” Dominic said. The rest of the home still has all the necessary features of a normal single-family residence — kitchen, bathrooms and living area. As for the actual silo that once held the missile? It’s 185 feet deep by 52 feet in diameter and could be whatever the buyer wants.

“An organic vegetable farm, hydroponics, precious metal vault, deep-sea diving school, test facility, or even a bird sanctuary,” Dominic said.

The missile silo is leftover from the beginning of the Cold War, when the U.S. began developing the Atlas missile system, which placed the missiles in bases throughout the country. In this home, like others, the missile was held in an underground silo connected to the missile launch control center.  In the late 1960s, the silos were decommissioned and auctioned off to be private residences.

Set between thick concrete walls, the home is designed to survive nuclear explosions, earthquakes, blizzards and nearly any other disaster imaginable. When you’re in the home, you can’t hear any noise above ground, Dominic says.

“It could be 110 outside, and it would be the same cool temperature and environment down below,” he said.

Related: 

• Missile Silo Home for Sale for $750,000
• House of the Week: Home Made From a Shipping Container
• House of the Week: Arizona Cave Home

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

The lack of available homes for sale, or “inventory,” continues to be a major theme of the 2013 housing market. As of June 2, the overall number of for-sale listings on Zillow was down 12.2 percent year-over-year. But that may actually represent some good news.

Even though inventory remains down compared to last year, the crunch is less severe than it was at the beginning of 2013. On Jan. 23, there were 17.5 percent fewer listings overall of for-sale homes on Zillow. In other words, inventory of for-sale homes on Zillow improved by 5.3 percentage points between January and June, controlling for seasonality.

Zillow’s analysis covers homes nationally and in the 99 largest metro areas covered by Zillow, and across bottom, middle and top price tiers.

Overall, year-over-year inventory levels improved in June compared to January in 70 metros and the nation as a whole. Among the 30 largest metro areas covered by Zillow, those with the highest degree of year-over-year inventory improvement between January and June include Phoenix (31.9 percentage point improvement); San Diego (14.9 percentage point improvement); and Minneapolis (13.5 percentage point improvement).

Inventory shortages worsened between January and June in 29 metro areas overall and in 11 of the top 30 largest metros. Large metros where inventory constraints have tightened the most since the beginning of the year include Las Vegas (-21.8 percentage point worsening); Chicago (-12.3 percentage point worsening); and Washington, DC (-9.8 percentage point worsening).

“As the recovery has progressed, inventory constraints have played a major role in rapidly pushing up home values in many areas, as increasing demand for homes ran headlong into limited supply. It has always been just a matter of time before more supply came on the market to meet this demand, as homebuilders built more new homes, and sellers entered the market to capitalize on recent robust appreciation in their own homes,” said Zillow Chief Economist Dr. Stan Humphries. “Inventory will likely remain below year-ago levels for a while yet, as builders ramp up capacity and sellers wait to squeeze every drop of equity from their home before listing. But a corner has been turned. Going forward, as this new supply makes its way to market, we expect the pace of home value appreciation to slow down from unsustainably high annual levels of 5 percent or above to more moderate levels closer to historic norms of 3 percent or 4 percent.”

Nationwide, the greatest year-over-year decreases in inventory were among more expensive homes, with the availability of top-tier and middle-tier properties each falling 15.7 percent year-over-year. The number of bottom-tier properties for sale on Zillow nationwide fell only 2.5 percent in early June compared to June 2012.

An authentic Wallace Neff-restored home hitting the market is always going to garner some attention in the Los Angeles market, and if it happens to have a celebrity angle — even a small one — then all the better.

The home at 5181 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 is currently owned by Ryan Dusick, the former drummer for Maroon 5. Dusick was first in Kara’s Flowers, a Nirvana-inspired band that led to the formation of Maroon 5 in the early 2000s. He played on the album “Songs About Jane” in 2002 and joined the band onstage to accept two Grammys, but by 2004, constant touring took its toll on Dusick’s arms. He took time off from the musician life and picked up this place in Los Feliz. However, the rest wasn’t enough for Dusick, and Maroon 5 replaced him with another drummer.

Now Dusick is selling the vintage estate with a nice price tag of $1.249 million. He bought the home for $1.199 million.

Gated and private, the residence sits near Griffith Park Observatory with views of downtown Los Angeles. Updated while retaining the home’s 1920s charm — think warm hardwoods and dark beams — the house has 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths on a 2,285-square-foot floor plan.

The best part of the home is undoubtedly the outdoor living space. Terracotta tile patios hold a generous seating and kitchen area, framed by ironwork and vine-covered pergola.

Related: 

• Crooner k.d. lang Sells Wooded Home to Maroon 5 Keyboardist
• Adam Levine Buys in Beverly Hills for $4.83 Million
• Rihanna Buys in Pacific Palisades

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Even though celebs have historically loved South Florida, however, doesn’t mean they are ready to settle down in one property — no matter how luxurious. Listing a multimillion-dollar beach house after owning it for a few years is fast becoming a trend in celebrity real estate.

Billy Joel

Billy Joel just sold his La Gorce Island home for nearly $14 million, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Piano Man bought the 7,856-square-foot Mediterranean mansion for $13.5 million in 2006. Six years later, he listed the beachfront property for $14.75 million.

With 7 bedrooms, 8.5 baths, a wine bar, covered poolside patio and private courtyard — not to mention 165 feet of beach looking out over Biscayne Bay — the home looks more like a five-star resort than a vacation home. Located in a popular spot for A-list celebs and Wall Street bigwigs, Joel was neighbors with Cher, who previously owned a home down the street.

Rosie O’Donnell

The Real Estalker reports that Rosie O’Donnell has also sold her waterfront property, this one on Star Island, for $12.675 million. The same day her show on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN TV Network was canceled in April 2012, O’Donnell listed the 1.1-acre estate for $19.5 million.

Surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, the estate features a 11,035-square-foot main house, two private guesthouses, a pool and 203 feet of beachfront property. O’Donnell purchased the property in 1999 and went on to buy homes in Greenwich and Chicago in the years that followed.

A-Rod, Olivia Newton-John & Versace

Joel and O’Donnell join a handful of celebs who have listed or sold their South Florida homes over the past month. Alex Rodriguez made headlines for selling his modern Palm Beach home for $30 million, while Olivia Newton-John decided to list the home she moved into after marrying John Easterling in 2008.

It was rumored that A-Rod built this custom home in 2010 for Cameron Diaz, but after the two split, he listed it for $38 million.

And after receiving a second $25 million price cut at the end of May, the late Gianni Versace’s former Miami home seeks a wealthy buyer for $75 million. While it’s no longer the most expensive home on the U.S. market, the Italian designer’s former residence has set the bar for future celebrity purchases in South Florida.

Versace’s former home at 1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 features views of the Atlantic.

Related:

• Versace’s Miami Home Gets Another Big Slash in Price
• Why Celebs Love South Florida
• Olivia Newton-John & John Easterling Selling FL Beach House

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate hovered between 3.85 and 3.94 percent for the majority of the week, dropping to as low as 3.80 percent on Thursday. Since May 7, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has risen from 3.39 percent.

“Despite a U.S. jobs report that was in line with expectations, mortgage rates rose yet again last Friday and are now at 15-month highs,” said Erin Lantz, director of Zillow Mortgage Marketplace. “This coming week, without any significant negative economic news, we expect the mortgage rate rally to continue.”

Additionally, the 15-year fixed mortgage rate this morning was 3.04 percent, and for 5/1 ARMs, the rate was 2.58 percent.

What are the rates right now? Check Zillow Mortgage Marketplace for up-to-the-minute mortgage rates for your state.

*The weekly rate chart illustrates the average 30-year fixed interest rate in six-hour intervals.

Source: IMDb

She may be a longtime script director in Hollywood, but as it often goes, the well-known in Tinsel Town aren’t usually known for their careers but their connections. And Jules Stewart has the ultimate connection to the A-lister set: she’s Kristen Stewart’s mother.

Being the “Twilight” star’s mom means she’s also fair game for the tabloids. TMZ, among others, recently reported Jules Stewart’s conflict with a neighbor over whether Stewart owns “wolves” as pets. A connection to “Twilight,” perhaps? Stewart says they are wolf-hybrids and recently got a restraining order against the upset neighbor.

Perhaps that dispute led Stewart to buy a new home for herself and her pack. According to property records, she paid $990,000 at the end of April to buy an “East Coast traditional” off Valley Vista Boulevard in Sherman Oaks.

Described as the “ultimate in casual living,” the 2,308-square-foot home has the standard must-haves for a celeb home: pool, spa, a generous-sized master suite and updated kitchen. The home won’t need any updates, as the property includes recent upgrades to the roof, water heater and exterior and interior paint.

Stewart, who made her directorial debut in the B-movie “K-11,” also owns a home in Malibu, which she purchased for $4.8 million in 2011, and an apartment in Pasadena.

Related: 

• Kristen Stewart Buys New Place in Los Feliz
• The One-Time Hideaway of Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson for Sale
• Report: Ellen and Portia Buy in Montecito

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Deal-hunters, consider the following:

A new home      

Granted, prices aren’t quite as low as they can be during the long, cold winter months, but this time of year there’s more selection. Just prepare for the competition, as many buyers are getting off the sidelines. Some are taking less-conventional means to find their dream house by searching in less-conventional places, such as Zillow’s Make Me Move® feature, where homeowners list the price it would take to make them move. There are currently 148,000 listings!

Hardware & tools     

This time of year hardware and home improvement stores roll out the big sales on indoor and outdoor tools for Father’s Day. Keep Dad turbo-charged!

Paint      

Whether you’re repainting your entire house or just want to jazz up a room or two, now’s the time to do it for less.

Cookware & kitchen accessories 

Cookware and kitchen accessories are practical items to buy in June, as they make for a great gift for both newlyweds and graduates alike. Why not treat yourself as well? Use the savings as an excuse, and an opportunity (!) to revamp your entire kitchen. Check out Zillow Digs for some design and remodeling inspiration!

Related:

• Fatten Up Your Wallet This Summer
• Bundle Services to Save Big
• Buy, Rent or Share?

Vera Gibbons is a financial journalist based in New York City and is a contributor to Zillow Blog. Connect with her at http://veragibbons.com/.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

The barn door can come in nearly any material, explains Houston-based designer Laura Umansky of Laura U, Inc. Interior Design, from steel and chrome to vintage wall panels and glass.

This bathroom design by Kelly Kerrie Design Lab is a contemporary take on a sliding barn door.

“There are many different things you can do,” explained Umansky. “Stainless steel looks really sleek and contemporary somewhere in a loft, but something a little more industrial or rustic might be perfect for a French country [home].”

A barn door is a large paneled door installed on a track that lies flat against a wall. They’ve gained in popularity as a space-saver because the doors don’t open out into a room; they’ve also become a design focal point, embodying and building upon the style of a home.

A pantry fits nicely behind this vintage sliding door.

“It adds a little something to the interior,” Umansky said. “You can make the doors custom, buy the hardware online — it can be anything you want. What I think is interesting is that you see the mechanism; it’s really tectonic.”

One of Umansky’s designs was for a writer who chose to have a barn door to create a more open floor plan.

This Moroccan office designed by Laura Umansky utilizes a barn door to create an open entry into the room.

“She wanted privacy but didn’t want to close the room off,” she said. “The great thing about it is that you can open the [barn] door all the way, and it also shows off the arched entrance.”

Barn doors can be placed nearly anywhere, as long as you have wall space to slide the door to the left or right, as well as ceiling space above for installing the hardware.

“It’s relatively compact, but if you have the wall space, you can absolutely do it,” said Umansky.

Get more interior inspiration on Zillow Digs!

Related: 

• Get This Look: Brass Is Back
• The New Neutrals: Infusing Bold Color in the Home
• Get This Look: Inviting Entryways

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Source: IMDb

He may still sport that shaggy blond rocker hair, but Tommy Shaw’s home is simply shabby chic. Much like Jessica’s Simpson’s Beverly Hills abode, the Styx guitarist and singer’s home is filled with black-and-white luxe furnishings and vintage chandeliers.

This may not reflect Shaw’s personal style, however. In 2011, wife Jeanne worked with interior designer Jeff Lewis to remodel the .7-acre property for the Bravo reality-TV series “Flipping Out.” Today, the main home boasts an updated contemporary kitchen and upstairs master suite with walk-in closets, a sleek soaking tub and steam shower. Two guesthouses are also move-in ready with additional bedrooms and living spaces.

Several man cave-worthy features came out of the renovations as well — from an at-home barber shop and outdoor kitchen to a fire pit and glow-in-the-dark swimming pool — but they weren’t enough to keep Shaw in the house indefinitely. He and his wife are selling their hilltop compound at 6161 Mulholland Hwy, Los Angeles, CA 90068 for $5.523 million.

While the couple are asking more than three times the median Hollywood Hills list price, a reminder of the Alabama Music Hall of Famer will be passed to the new owner in the form of an at-home recording studio. The outdoor living spaces are also a major selling point of the property with multiple balconies, a covered poolside patio and a tranquil Zen-inspired garden.

Best known for his guitar playing and vocals in the rock band Styx, Shaw has also played with Damn Yankees and Shaw Blades, as well as released several solo albums. Styx’s seventh album, “The Grand Illusion,” went platinum and featured a radio hit by Shaw titled “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man).” More recently, he’s made a go at bluegrass with his highly anticipated album, “The Great Divide.”

Related:

• Stevie Nicks’ Old Hollywood Home Asks $1.6 Million
• Lindsey Buckingham & Wife Are ‘Macs’ of LA Real Estate
• Daryl Hall Drops Price on Catskill Home

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here. 

Source: IMDb

In the mood for guacamole? How about an estate built on an avocado farm? Actor Dennis Franz and his wife, Joanie Franz, are selling their Santa Barbara estate for $7.65 million.

Franz, best known for his roles on “NYPD Blue” and “Hill Street Blues,” didn’t buy his home for the avocados, but because he and his wife saw “tremendous potential” in the avocado farm home, said listing agent Randy Solakian of Coldwell Banker Previews International, who shares the listing with Deanna Solakian.

“The Franzes have a keen eye for opportunity,” Solakian said. “They essentially built a new home in place of the original, leaving very little of the existing home and building all new around what was left.”

Built in a New England style, the home at 2225 Featherhill Rd, Santa Barbara CA 93108 sits on 1.65 landscaped acres that include a covered loggia with wood-burning stoves and full outdoor kitchen, a 2-bedroom cabana, a pool and bocce ball court.

“It’s a New England-style private garden estate in a semi-rural country setting between the mountains and Montecito upper village,” Solakian said.

The residence itself measures 6,000 square feet and offers 6 bedrooms and 7.5 baths. The home opens from a generous-sized front porch and flows into an open floor plan.

According to property records, the Franzes bought the home in 2010 for $2.15 million. Using the Zillow mortgage calculator, a monthly payment on their home would be $28,848, assuming a 20 percent down payment on a 30-year mortgage.

Related: 

• Drew Barrymore Lists Santa Barbara Home for $7.5 Million
• Report: Ellen and Portia Buy in Montecito
• Vince Vaughn Buys in La Canada Flintridge

Photos are by Santa Barbara-based photographer Scott Gibson.

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Get the high score

901 N Indian Paintbrush Cir, Payson, AZ
For sale: $6 million

Dad can impress the guys at the video arcade if he has time to practice on some old-school machines. Drive, shoot and get the high score on four arcade game systems in this Arizona home. And after Dad has gotten some arcade time in, he can check out the rest of the luxe house, which also boasts an 1800s-style saloon, wine cellar and private elevator.

Bowl a frame

4009 W Lawther Dr, Dallas, TX
For sale: $24.9 million

It’s not just a bowling lane in this home, but an entire alley with a snack bar and enough seating for Dad to host the entire bowling team. And if Dad doesn’t love bowling, the Dallas home also has a putting green and an enormous garage designed for vintage cars.

Cabin cuisine

621 Pine Crest Dr, Snowmass Village, CO
For sale: $9.45 million

Does Dad consider himself the “Top Chef” in his kitchen? This cabin-style kitchen has two flat screens, high-end appliances and plenty of counter space for him to show off his culinary skills.

Modern pool shark

4 Centre Market Pl, New York, NY
For sale: $13 million

This space is for the Dad who prefers modern over rustic. The New York townhouse was flawlessly designed by HGTV stars Bob and Cortney Novogratz and features a basement wine cellar and a fourth-floor zinc-and-mahogany bar imported from Paris. The pool table is a vintage find, according to the listing.

Home for hoops

400 West St #TH, New York, NY
For sale: $18.5 million

Dad can shoot hoops with the guys in the cul-de-sac or local gym, but it’s so much better when the basketball court is in-house! After some time on the court, the space can be converted to a home theater.

Related:

• 10 Man Caves Perfect for Catching the Big Game
• Bomb Shelter or Ultimate Man Cave?
• Hottest Digs of May 2013

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Houses are often selling for more than asking price. After years of a sluggish buyers’ market, many real estate agents are trying to get their would-be sellers to list their homes now.

It seems like a great time to sell. But how can you know for sure if it’s a great time for you to sell?

If you experience buyer’s remorse, you can usually get out of a contract through contingencies or other out clauses. If you start to feel seller’s remorse, you don’t have that luxury. So you must be absolutely sure you’re ready to sell.

To avoid seller’s remorse, and to make the sales process go as smoothly as possible, keep these strategies in mind.

Develop a solid pricing strategy

Agents often encourage their sellers to list their homes competitively, so that the market receives it well. Sometimes sellers see that as the agent pushing for a quick sale. Many times, it’s truly the agent looking out for the seller’s best interests.

Whatever the scenario, pricing is the most important discussion a seller can have with an agent. When there’s a disconnect on price, raise it as a red flag from the get-go. If you find yourself resisting your agent’s suggested price, talk through the options or get a second opinion.

You might try starting out with a higher number. This might be against your agent’s better judgment, but it can be worth a shot. If there’s no activity in the first few weeks, you can always reduce the price.

Alternatively, sellers who increase their asking price after the home has gone on the market are often seen as frenetic, lacking a strategy and having a clear disconnect with their agent.

Bottom line: If you haven’t had a serious pricing discussion with your agent or you aren’t sold on your list price, don’t go on the market.

Have a clear post-sale plan

The sellers of an Essex, CT home heard the market there was hot and that they could get the price they tried but failed to get just six months earlier. They’d already done the appropriate clearing out, painting, and fix-it work, and even had the property inspected. So, for them, going on the market was easy.

However, they didn’t expect to receive three offers, all of them above the asking price, within hours of their first open house. The buyers they chose wanted to close in 30 days.

The problem: The sellers had nowhere to go. They didn’t have a plan. Like many sellers today, they heard the market was strong again. And after dreaming for years of finally getting what their home is worth, they jumped in while “the getting is good” without thinking it all the way through.

Be ready to negotiate with buyers

Feeling strong and in the driver’s seat, the Essex homeowners decided to wait and see if they could get an even higher price once they had a moving plan in place. In an effort to keep the deal together, the sellers’ listing agent negotiated a quick close with a 30-day-free rent-back and another 30 days rent, in which the sellers would pay the new buyer’s PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance). It was a win-win for all.

While this couple in Essex had the luxury of a competitive bidding situation, it may not always be the case. That’s why having a clear plan in place for all conceivable outcomes and a willingness to negotiate can help you get through the sale process successfully.

When in doubt, stay out

Home selling is happening quickly in many parts of the country. While this is great news for the housing market and most homeowners, sellers need to plan for the sale months in advance. Hooking up with a good local agent early on in the process and staying engaged is the best way to approach this new market.

If you have any doubts about your physical or financial situation, hold off on listing. Watch from the sidelines, and only jump in when you’re truly ready. The biggest mistake a seller can make is to go on the market and fail to sell — at a time when everything else is selling.

Related:

• How to Avoid Buyer’s Remorse in Real Estate
• How to Buy and Sell a Home at the Same Time
• Don’t Be Fooled by These 3 Real Estate Myths

Brendon DeSimone is a Realtor and one of the nation’s leading real estate experts.  He has collaborated on multiple real estate books and his expert advice is regularly sought out by print, online and television media outlets including FOX News, CNBC, Good Morning America and Forbes. An avid investor himself, Brendon owns real estate around the US and abroad and is licensed to sell in California and New York. You can find Brendon on Facebook or follow him on Twitter or Google Plus.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

He’s had a big presence in Washington DC in the past two Democratic presidencies — for both former President Bill Clinton and current President Barack Obama — but David Axelrod calls Chicago home.

The political and election adviser owns two condos in the Windy City, and one of them was recently listed for $1.25 million.

Axelrod and his wife, Susan, bought the unit at 505 N Lake Shore DR #4604, Chicago IL 60611 in 2002 for $950,000, according to property records. The building, Lake Point Tower, was built in 1969 but obviously has gone through several updates; Axelrod’s condo in particular has had a full, custom remodel.

Measuring 3,200 square feet, the home has 3 bedrooms, 4 baths and a 38-foot-wide great room, which has direct views of Lake Michigan and, claims the listing, is “perfect for entertaining!” In the past, the condo probably did its fair share of entertaining — likely President Obama stopped by a number of times. Not only did Axelrod run both of Obama’s campaigns and serve as a senior adviser, but he was one of the people who read “The Audacity of Hope” before it went to press.

Axelrod recently announced he was stepping out of politics and accepted a job with MSNBC and NBC News as a political analyst. Perhaps it’s this change in career that prompted a change in real estate as well.

Thinking you want to get into politics? Perhaps the next step is owning Axelrod’s place. With a 20 percent down payment, the monthly payment on a 30-year mortgage would be $4,705, according to Zillow’s mortgage calculator.

Related:

• Sen. John McCain’s Former Home Back on the Market
• U.S Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. Lists DC Townhome
• Ron Paul Seizes Power of the Internet to Sell Home

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Whether buying for the first time or looking for specialty mortgage information, the Buying a Home section covers mortgage terms and definitions, how to find the right lender and how to apply for a mortgage. Here are a few commonly asked questions answered on this page:

• What is a mortgage?
• Can I afford a mortgage?
• What are debt-to-income ratios?
• What does a title company do?
• What are closing costs, and how much are they typically?

When it comes to deciding how to finance your loan, the Mortgage Education Center can help you consider all of your options. The Finding the Right Loan section covers the pros and cons of various loan products, so you can make an informed decision about your mortgage. Here’s a look at some of the topics covered:

• FHA loans
• ARM loans
• 30-year fixed mortgage
• Second mortgages
• Interest-only loans

Ready to dive in? You can find the Mortgage Education Center under the Mortgage Rates tab on Zillow.com, or by clicking here.

Unfortunately, many buyers fail to realize the importance of the home inspection. Keeping the factors below in mind can help ensure that you get the most value from the process.

Attend the inspection

Many buyers let their real estate agent handle the process and don’t even attend the inspection. This is a huge mistake. Most real estate sales professionals are going to do a great job for you, but if you rely on them to handle this process alone, then you aren’t going to hear the inspector point out any issues that might cause you to think again about whether it is the right property for you.

Check the inspector’s credentials

In many states an inspector doesn’t need any formal inspection education and may not have to be licensed or bonded. In order to make sure your inspector is a competent professional, you should do a little research on your state’s requirements, certifications and professional designations. Then question, and verify, the experience and knowledge of your inspector. If you don’t, you might get a really bad inspection report that fails to find important issues.

Inspect the home for yourself

Most of the time a home inspection is only the second or third time a buyer has walked through the property — and probably the first time with a few hours to really look around. This is the most expensive purchase you will ever make. Doesn’t it make sense to do many detailed reviews of the property before you make the final decision to proceed forward with your purchase? Bring a friend or family member along for an additional set of eyes. If you discover something that makes you second guess whether it is the right property for you, you’ll be glad you found it before you closed escrow.

Make a list of costs

At the home inspection, separately from the inspector, you should add up all the costs of items you want to repair, replace, paint, improve, landscape, etc. Adding up all those costs, plus getting bids and estimates to make those repairs and upgrades, will give you a better feel for how much you will be spending on the property once you take ownership.

Negotiate repairs

With your inspection report in hand — plus your list of needed improvements and the assistance of your real estate sales professional — you can request that the seller make repairs. The seller may say no, give you a purchase credit or repair some items. But the more detailed your list, the better the chances the seller will at least give a little — and maybe a lot.

Related:

• Is Homeownership a Good Choice for Young People?
• Offer Accepted: What Happens During Escrow?
• 5 Smart Moves a First-Time Buyer Should Consider

Leonard Baron, MBA, is America’s Real Estate Professor®. His unbiased, neutral and inexpensive “Real Estate Ownership, Investment and Due Diligence 101” textbook teaches real estate owners how to make smart and safe purchase decisions.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

When it’s mom and dad, Billy and Sally (and maybe Rover), budgeting can be fairly straightforward — but not everyone’s home life is quite so nuclear, especially in the current economic climate.

We’ve all heard stories of recent college graduates who opt to live at home with their parents for a couple years to pay off debt, or folks in the 60-years-and-older set who need to move in with their kids, thanks to depleted retirement savings.

To see how unconventional households make ends meet, we asked four families with nontraditional living arrangements (one family has even welcomed a boyfriend … and his sister!) to share how they manage the money side of things.

Maria Wright, 43, nurse, Lancaster, PA

As a nurse, I make $50,000 a year. My husband and I also own a furniture store, so with the money we made from the business and my income, we brought in a combined $100,000 last year. My husband pays most of the bills, such as cable and electric, but I still know where the money is going.

There are eight people in our house: me; my husband, David, 45; my 73-year-old father, John; my younger kids, Ellie, 16, and Nicholas, 11; my older daughter, Corinne, 22; her husband, Adam, 25; and Corinne and Adam’s son, 3-month-old Asher.

My father, who will be staying with us indefinitely, moved in last month after a hip operation. He receives a $1,000 social security payment once a month — $400 of which he contributes to cover most of our $600 monthly grocery bill.

Maria’s family, minus baby Asher. Source: LearnVest

Corinne and her husband often contribute another $200, which we put toward groceries or the electric bill. With eight of us in the house, utility bills can get pretty high, but I don’t ask Corinne and her husband to pay rent or share all the household expenses. They have been living with us for seven months now, but they’re moving into their own apartment soon. I haven’t rushed them to leave. In fact, I wish they’d stay a little longer and keep saving money. They have about $15,000 in debt (student loans, credit cards, etc.), not including their car loans.

I get paid biweekly, and as soon as I receive a check, I put more than half of each paycheck toward my mortgage. Ideally, the store makes money every month, so we use that to pay its lease. I marvel at how we’re able to make ends meet living week-to-week. We have a nominal amount in savings, and when you look at the numbers — what we bring in versus what we pay out — it doesn’t always add up.

Being on a strict budget means saying no to some things, like eating out. We order Chinese takeout once a week because it’s cheap, and we might get pizza once a month. We also buy groceries that stretch, like boxed macaroni and cheese or ramen noodles. We’re never starving, by any means, but we may not always have exactly what we want to eat.

Although they can be expensive, I don’t deprive the younger kids of participating in extracurricular activities. Ellie is in ballet, and Nicholas is learning karate. But Ellie would love to take unlimited dance classes, and Nicholas also wants to do ice hockey — but that would be another $300 a month that we can’t afford.

Before I started this nursing job, I worked as an independent contractor. So for nine months last year, our family went without health insurance. Thankfully, we didn’t run into any medical problems. Somehow things always work out, but I would like to get a better handle on things — to keep a more watchful eye on our financial well-being. As it is now, I’m always worrying that there will be an unexpected expense that could send us reeling.

But I still wouldn’t have it any other way. It reminds me of growing up: My parents were always taking in people, from friends to family. I’m certainly not rich, but I love being able to say, “I have the room. Come, stay and get back on your feet.”

Read three more families’ personal finance stories here.

More from LearnVest:

• The All-in-the-Family Lending Trend
• 3 People, 1 Big Student Loan Debt: My Make-Ends-Meet Plan
• Great American Staycation: How a Weeklong Family Getaway Cost $500

This post originally appeared on LearnVest.com on June 5 and was written by Penny Wrenn. It is republished here with permission from LearnVest.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

Decatur Island

44 Lopez Way, Decatur Island, WA
For sale: $499,000

Located in the San Juan Islands, Decatur Island may be overlooked for neighboring Lopez Island, but a private boat or plane ride leads to this 2,470-square-foot home with 270-degree water and mountain views. The contemporary design features modern appliances and cabinetry, bamboo floors, a metal roof and wrap-around porch. A separate guest apartment and garage also add more living space, making the property big enough to comfortably sleep 12 or more island hoppers.

Hawaii

99-1916 Pukeawe Cir, Volcano, HI
For sale: $275,785

This Big Island home proves that it’s all about location. The 2-bedroom, 2-bath home borders the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park near the sunny side of Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The property is also down the road from the Volcano Golf & Country Club and a 45-minute drive to the Kaimu Beach Park.

St. Simons Island

121 Rosemont St, St Simons Island, GA 
For sale: $495,000

As the largest of Georgia’s renowned Golden Isles, St. Simons Island is simply called “The Island” by locals and summer vacationers. This listing recently dropped $30,000 in price, offering a contemporary, 3,711-square-foot home for less than $500,000. The interior is move-in ready with a gourmet kitchen and breakfast nook, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a screened-in porch and other tasteful upgrades.

Deer Isle

131 N Deer Isle Rd, Deer Isle, ME
For sale: $299,000

Known as “Windy Hill,” this 19th-century home is located in the heart of Deer Isle, a gathering place for artists, authors, sailors and retirees looking for a respite from urban life. The 1,900-square-foot house boasts several original features such as a center-chimney cape, pine-board floors and built-in cabinets. It’s also surrounded by 44 acres of scenic coastal land.

Key West

18 Verde Dr, Key West, FL 
For sale: $399,000

Right on a canal in the Florida Keys, this 3-bedroom home is a new construction with an open floor plan, 9-foot ceilings, a spacious kitchen, crown moldings, upgraded bathrooms and a deck overlooking the water. In anticipation of hurricane season, the property is also built to withstand 180 mph winds, with impact doors and windows.

Related:

• Waterfront Escapes for $200,000
• 5 Bedrooms for Less Than $300,000
• How Much House Can You Get for $500,000?

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.

Source: Google Maps

Source: Wikimedia Commons

The word around Seattle is that Mariners’ ace Felix Hernandez has officially taken up the mantle of “Franchise Player” with aplomb.

First, there was the monster contract extension the power pitcher signed last winter worth a reported $175 million gross and keeping him in the Emerald City until 2019.

Then there’s word that just like the original Mariners phenom, Ken Griffey Jr., Hernandez has taken a liking to dining late at one of Seattle’s most famously five-star restaurants, Canlis. With a champagne list boasting $9,500 bottles of bubbly and service fit for royalty, it’s no wonder that King Felix apparently doesn’t mind paying the Hugo Boss-attired staff overtime to stick around and make him feel extra special.

Now, to further cement the Venezuelan’s ties to his adopted Major League hometown, comes word from the Puget Sound Business Journal that Hernandez has plunked down $1.4 million for a 1964 split-level in the uber-exclusive neighborhood of Clyde Hill on the east side of Lake Washington.

Given King Felix’s new-found affection for the best things in life, it’s tough to imagine that Hernandez won’t be demolishing the existing structure in favor of a custom-built estate on the half-acre parcel. With views of Lake Washington and downtown Seattle, the property fits the profile of other older Seattle-area homes that boast exquisite locations and views, but are in need of a king’s touch.

While $1.4 million might sound like a lot for a building lot, keep in mind that the Seattle-area real estate market has been on fire for the past year, and water-view parcels are even more aggressively coveted. Clyde Hill property values have increased 13 percent year-over-year, with a median list price of $1.775 million.

Hernandez owns a 5,000-square-foot home in nearby Bellevue, but despite a wine room and home movie theater, there’s every reason to imagine that the new king of the Pacific Northwest sports scene doesn’t want to make a really big real estate statement.

Related:

• Alex Rodriguez Sells Custom Estate for $30 Million
• Homes of Top Baseball Players
• Redskins QB RGIII Rolls Into New Beltway Home

Laura Vecsey is a freelance writer for Zillow Blog. Read more from her here.

Source: Wikipedia Commons

He gets paid to make people laugh, but when it comes to real estate, Ryan Stiles is not breaking even. He bought a 5-bedroom Encino home in 2003 for $3.45 million under a trust held by celeb business manager Bruce Lagnese. After first listing the property in 2010, the “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” comedian just sold it for $3.1 million.

Built in 1976, the Rancho Estates home features rich oak hardwood floors and vaulted ceilings. Other notable features include a wet bar in a large eat-in kitchen, 6.5 baths, a media-screening room, and pool and barbecue area for outdoor entertaining.

Stiles’ career as an actor and comedian took off in the U.S. when he successfully lobbied to get an American version of “Whose Line?” produced on ABC in the ’90s. He went on to play Lewis Kiniski on “The Drew Carey Show” and a recurring role as Dr. Herb Melnick on “Two and a Half Men.”

A Seattle native, Stiles also owns a home in Bellingham, WA that he purchased in 1999. Listing agent Lynde Leonard of Coldwell Banker-Beverly Hills South handled the sale of his Encino property.

Related:

• Ryan Stiles’ Encino, CA Home Listed for $3.9 Million
• ‘The Late Late Show’ Host Craig Ferguson Sells LA Home
• Chris Parnell Buys Another Silver Lake Property

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here. 

By Alex Starace for MyFirstApartment.com

No one signs a lease with the intention of breaking it a few months later. But sometimes life happens. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel you need to break your lease, remember that it can be an expensive and difficult process. That said, sometimes it’s worth it. Here are the two main scenarios and how to deal with them.

Job (or other) relocation

If you have to leave town because you just accepted your dream job across the country, you’re in good shape. Or, for example, if the out-of-state grad school program that you thought was a reach accepted you, and you want to enroll in the fall, you’re in good shape. Basically, if you have an obvious, straightforward reason why you need to skip town, your landlord is likely to be fairly understanding, particularly if you’ve been a good tenant.

As with any of these situations, the first thing to do is dig out your lease and see what it says. Most leases have provisions for renters who want to break the lease, often in the form of a two-month penalty or a nominal fee if you give more than two months’ notice. Or, some leases will insist that you pay rent until the landlord is able to find your replacement. Whatever the language in your lease is, it’s good to know before you speak with your landlord.

After you’ve done your research, tell your landlord that you need to move, explain why and ask what your options are. In this situation, most likely, you’ll figure out something that’s mutually agreeable, and you’ll not lose much money in the transaction.

A bad landlord

However, not everyone has a cheery, friendly landlord. In fact, for many people who want to break their lease, the landlord is the reason why. Maybe the landlord won’t fix your heat, or your management company ignores your repeated complaints about a broken toilet. In cases such as these, you have legitimate complaints — and you also have rights.

Take out your lease and see exactly what it says. Most likely, the landlord’s obligations are clearly spelled out. If your landlord is not fulfilling them, he or she is in violation of the lease. (Also, landlords may have many other requirements that they have to fulfill, regardless of whether they’re enumerated in the lease. Check your local laws to see exactly what they are.)

That said, even if you landlord is in flagrant violation of your lease, don’t just leave. You first need to research the laws in your city and state about how to file a formal complaint against your landlord. Yes, that’s right — you may need to take your landlord to court before you can legally break your lease. If this sounds unpleasant, that’s because it is.

Another option, as above, is to read the fine print in your lease and see what the rules are for breaking it. If the financial penalty is not too steep, it may just be easier to notify your landlord that you’re moving as per the contract, pay the penalty and be done with it. Yes, your bad landlord “wins,” but you keep your sanity, and you can move out sooner.

Whichever route you choose, make sure you get everything in writing. This means every letter is sent certified mail (with a return receipt), all correspondence is documented and all payments are made with checks. When a landlord is negligent or malicious, you need to have proof of everything.

Another option: Subletting

Subletting is simply the process of having someone else pay you to live in an apartment on which you have signed the lease. In some cases, you don’t end up subletting, even after you’ve found subletters: If you have a good, conscientious landlord, he or she likely would prefer you not sublet if you’re leaving permanently. Instead, a good landlord will offer up a lease transfer to your subletters or tear up your lease and offer your subletters a fresh one. You may have to pay a nominal move-out fee, but that’s likely it — after all, you’ve done the work of finding a new renter for the landlord.

If your landlord is less involved or interested, then you may have to actually sublet. It involves some hassle and liability, but it can be worth it. First, after you’ve found potential subletters, check their credit worthiness (remember that they are going to be responsible for paying you every month until the expiration of your lease). You want to make sure they do that. Second, draw up a contract, so that both parties know what is expected of them. Make sure you include language that reflects that the subletters are now responsible for any damage that takes place at your old apartment, and that they will pay any damage fees assessed when your lease is up. Third, do a walk-through before you formally sublet the place, so that both parties know the condition it was in before the subletters took over – and document this in writing and with photos.

Breaking a lease can be difficult. It requires that you research your lease, your local laws and negotiate with your landlord. But, depending on your situation, it could be worth it.

Related:

• How to Deal With Noisy Neighbors
• Are You a Pushover Renter?
• Rental Perks You Might Get … If You Ask

MyFirstApartment.com helps novice renters successfully navigate the first year of living on their own. The blog shares proven tips and tricks for everything from finding the perfect rental or roommate, to furnishing on a small budget or no budget, to dealing with landlords or roommate’s girlfriends.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

In June, we officially welcome summer. In keeping with the season, this month’s must-do projects include lawn care, do-it-yourself backyard improvements and fun, kid-friendly ideas for painting.

Source: gogreensprinklers.com

No. 1: Maintain your lawn

Perhaps the biggest challenge facing homeowners this time of year is keeping the lawn healthy and green. One critically important aspect of growing grass is watering. Though it seems so simple, doing it right often eludes people. Conditions vary, but the following general guidelines should serve you well:

Water enough. Most lawns require about one inch of water per week. How do you know if you’re watering enough? Simply set out a small container, turn on the sprinklers, and track how long it takes for the container to fill with one inch. If it takes 60 minutes, that’s how long you need to water your lawn each week.

Water early. Water your lawn during the early morning hours, around 5 a.m. or 6 a.m. At that point in the day, the air is cooler and the winds are calmer, so evaporation is less likely to occur, and your grass will also have a chance to dry out before the sun really starts beating down.

Water evenly. Make sure that your sprinklers are reaching every part of your lawn. Test your system by dispersing several small containers around your property. After a session of watering, compare levels in the containers, making any necessary adjustments to the positioning of your sprinklers.

Water slowly. Only water as much as your lawn can absorb. If you water too much too quickly, excess water will run off your lawn — a waste of water and money. One strategy is to run your sprinklers for half the usual time, allowing the initial watering to absorb before you give the grass another drink.

Water infrequently. Instead of watering a little bit every day, give your lawn a good soak every three days or so. Watering less frequently encourages roots to grow directly downward in search of water, making your lawn more stable overall.

If you know the signs, your lawn will tell you when it needs watering. As you walk over the grass, your footsteps should readily disappear; if they don’t, you need to water. A bluish-green color is another indicator of dehydration; so are curling glass blades. You might also try the screwdriver test: seeing how hard it is to push a screwdriver into the ground. If it’s difficult, then your soil is very dry. Remember, the goal is to keep your lawn happy but not to become its slave!

Source: homelife.com

No. 2: Paint it up

A coat of paint can work wonders on surfaces of all kinds. Before you commit to eggshell or high gloss, however, consider what chalkboard paint has to offer. While once available only in black, today’s chalkboard paint comes in a range of colors. It can be applied easily with a brush, roller or spray can, and you can use it almost anywhere for countless purposes: personalizing mugs, labeling drawers, decorating stair risers — you name it.

No. 3: Control the pests

If summer pests have begun to plague your house, many non-chemical treatment options are at your disposal. To deter flies, for instance, you can place potted basil plants on the kitchen counter and around doorways and windowsills. Problem with spiders? A mixture of water and unsweetened lemon or lime juice should do the trick. These and other natural pest control tricks will help you maintain a critter-free home.

No. 4: Strike a new path

Few elements define your landscape as effectively as a walkway or garden path. This summer, consider adding one to the yard using pavers or stones from your local home improvement center. Choose whatever material best suits your needs and DIY skill set, but one easy, beautiful approach is to lay a stone path. For a different look that is more challenging to achieve, think about patterning brick or artfully arranging flagstone.

No. 5: Shower outdoors

A favorite summertime luxury is the outdoor shower. Of course, a basic installation involves a garden hose, shower head and tree branch, but you can make your own free-standing unit without much trouble, and without spending a fortune. If using wood, guard against rot by employing cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber. For convenience, locate your shower near an outdoor spigot; that way, you’re spared from having to tap into the household plumbing or run extended hoses. Don’t miss these amazing outdoor shower designs for inspiration!

Related:

• How To: Paint EVERYTHING
• 30 Days of East Summer DIY
• 5 Common Lawn Care Problems

Bob Vila is the home improvement expert widely known as host of TV’s This Old House, Bob Vila’s Home Again, and Bob Vila. Today, Bob continues his mission to help people upgrade their homes and improve their lives with advice online at BobVila.com. His video-rich site offers a full range of fresh, authoritative content – practical tips, inspirational ideas, and more than 1,000 videos from Bob Vila television.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

No. 10

A glass display case doubles as a partition between kitchen and living spaces in this historic Southampton estate by Zillow Digs contributor The Corcoran Group.

 No. 9

This plush lounge area merges outdoor and indoor design elements — ideal for warm summer evenings.

No. 8

The deep counter space over a sleek front-loading washer and dryer makes you want to air your dirty laundry — literally.

No. 7

Need an afternoon escape? Linger awhile amid this enchanting side-garden by Zillow Digs designer RDM Architecture.

 No. 6

A real water bed! Sleep under the sea with an aquarium-encased bedroom.

 No. 5

Bring the whimsy of a tree house indoors with this bedroom hideaway for kids.

 No. 4

Users agree, this built-in bed nook by Zillow Digs designer Rebecca Driggs begs for a good book or two.

No. 3

While fireplaces have traditionally been found in dens, bedrooms and kitchens, a bathroom fireplace is the latest in cozy interior trends.

No. 1

On a lazy Saturday morning, a large eat-in island is just the spot for breakfast pampering.

Find more home improvement inspiration on Zillow Digs.

Related:

• Hottest Digs of April 2013
• Kitchen Remodel? Avoid These 8 Trends to Keep it Current Longer
• Dig This Trend: Fast & Furious Garages

Madison Slinker, social media coordinator at Zillow, writes about home improvement and design for Zillow Blog. Read more of her work here.

Source: IMDb

There was nothing funny about Jim Carrey’s attempts to sell his Malibu Colony home. The actor first listed the property at 23418 Malibu Colony Rd, Malibu CA 90265 in June 2011 for $18 million. The home then went through a series of price cuts and was even off the market for a while until Carrey relisted it for $13.95 million a year ago.

Forunately for Carrey, the closing price was pretty close to that ask. The home sold, according to property records, for $13.4 million. It’s an uptick from Carrey’s purchase price of $9.75 million back in 2002.

Homes along the Malibu coast are a hot commodity and have hosted stars ranging from the Spielbergs to the uber-rich Larry Ellison, who bought a home for $36 million this past September. However, according to reports, Carrey is no longer interested in the beach life — he’s been avidly checking out real estate in Manhattan.

Carrey’s former contemporary home is set up as an entertainer’s estate, with indoor spaces that flow into several decks and patios, all facing the Pacific Ocean. The home is on the smaller side for a Malibu mansion, measuring 2,866 square feet, with 3 bedrooms and 4 baths.

Carrey is likely best known for his comedic acts, usually in films such as “Dumb and Dumber,” “Liar Liar” and “The Mask,” but he’s also had significant and more serious roles in films like “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” and “The Truman Show.”

Related: 

• Oracle CEO Larry Ellison Drops $36 Million on Malibu Home
• Leonardo DiCaprio’s Malibu Home Listed as Rental Again
• Actor Nick Nolte Lists Malibu Home With Celeb Pedigree

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

An avid lover of luxury real estate, Ellen DeGeneres recently added this Montecito, CA estate to her growing property collection.

When purchasing luxury real estate, getting the “best deal” doesn’t necessarily play a big role in a buyer’s decision-making process. Does the current most expensive home, listed at $190 million, sound like a steal? Not so much. So why would anyone spend such an extravagant amount on a property that may or may not be worth it?

Well as they say, the price and/or value of something truly comes down to what someone thinks it’s worth — and what they will pay for it. This is most definitely the case when dealing with luxury real estate.

The pool at the late fashion icon Gianni Versace’s Miami estate is lined in 24-karat gold. The estate is currently on the market for $75 million.

Luxury real estate is looked upon as a collectible — not simply just “somewhere to live” but rather a showpiece to add to a buyer’s valuable portfolio of possessions. “Cookie cutter” is disregarded and looked upon with disgust when viewing the priciest of pricey properties; the more extreme the price tag, the more extreme and unique the home is expected to be. From baseball diamonds and hockey rinks to a 2,714-square-foot 12-car auto showroom and a pool lined in 24-karat gold, the possibilities and ideas are endless, and the outrageous and ostentatious are expected when searching for, purchasing and living the luxe life.

How does one think rationally when purchasing such an over-the-top property? Luxury buyers think globally, not locally. It’s not necessarily about what is happening around the neighborhood, but rather what is happening around the world. With the exception of locations with strong government intervention, luxury residential real estate values will likely follow luxury goods, not the general housing market, and remain immune to economic and political trends.

While trophy properties are glamorous, the rich didn’t become so successful without thinking about the long-term investment of their pricey pad. Buyers who live in locations with economic uncertainty readily place bids on properties where stronger economies exist — even if it means buying thousands of miles away.

In addition to this NYC apartment, fashion designer Marc Jacobs also owns a home in Paris.

Luxury real estate definitely creates its own category within the real estate world. And as recent news has indicated that the rich are getting richer, the extraordinary is quickly becoming passé and the possibilities of what is to come are limitless.

Related: 

• Sky-High Living: America’s Most Lavish Condo Amenities
• The Country’s Hottest Luxury Real Estate Markets
• Privacy or Luxury? The Top 5 Celeb Home Destinations

Samantha (Sam) DeBianchi is a Realtor and founder of DeBianchi Real Estate. Her expert real estate advice and straightforward approach can be seen and heard on FOX Business. Always keeping it REAL, you can follow Sam online on Twitter and Facebook.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

Discounts and price cuts occur all the time in real estate, especially for homes that have spent some time on the market.

Those discounts, however, usually register in the thousands, occasionally the millions. But a $25 million price cut? That’s significant no matter how you look at it.

The late Gianni Versace’s former Miami home has had not one, but two of these significant price cuts. The house first hit the market with a hefty price tag of $125 million a year ago; at the time, the price made it the most expensive home on the U.S. market. (Not so anymore — an apartment is listed at $125 million in Manhattan, and an estate in Greenwich, CT is priced at $190 million.)

By November, the home was discounted by $25 million to $100 million.

By the end of May, the price was slashed another $25 million, putting it at the current list price of $75 million, which by many accounts, still puts it on the most expensive homes list.

The home at 1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach FL 33139 was purchased by the Italian designer in 1992 for about $10 million. He spent some $33 million expanding it, adding an entire south wing and exterior plazas as well as a mosaic pool lined in 24-karat gold. Versace was murdered outside the home in 1997, and Telecom entrepreneur Peter Loftin bought the home for $19 million. Loftin used the home as a private residence for a few years and then turned it into a boutique hotel, Villa by Barton G, in 2009.

Built in 1930, the house measures 23,462 square feet with 10 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, many of which have views of the Atlantic from the home’s perch on Ocean Drive.

The house is listed by The Jills — Jill Eber and Jill Hertzberg of Coldwell Banker Previews International.

Related: 

• Most Expensive Home in US Hits the Market at $190 Million
• Manhattan’s Most Expensive Home Is $125 Million
• 10 Most Expensive Homes for Sale

Erika Riggs, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, unusual properties and home design trends. Read more of her work here. 

Confront your neighbor directly

You’re not in high school anymore, so don’t resort to leaving passive-aggressive notes. Being childish is a guaranteed way to get your neighbors to dislike you, and there’s always the chance that they’ll retaliate in an unsavory way, like making even more noise. What will you do then?

Instead, be a grown-up and tell them nicely that you can hear their late-night antics coming through the walls. More often than not, your neighbors won’t even be aware that they were being loud in the first place.

Compromise with a schedule

If you end up confronting your neighbors with concerns about noise, be sure to make them feel like you’re open to compromise. Give them a rundown of what your daily schedule looks like, specifically what times you need noise to start dying down. At the same time, ask what times are sensitive for them, so that they feel like it’s a two-way street.

Additionally, it’s good practice to follow up with all of your surrounding neighbors. If, for example, you like to work out in your apartment but live on the second floor, ask your downstairs neighbors what their schedule looks like and when noise will be an issue for them. That way, you can do plyometrics in your apartment without wondering if the people below you are going crazy. Show your neighbors that you’re willing to compromise if they are, and both of you will feel much better about the situation.

Defer to management

Don’t worry about looking like a tattle-tale — in fact, when noise is truly too much to handle, deferring to management is the most responsible and viable way to deal with the situation. Your apartment manager is, after all, the only one equipped and authorized to handle the situation. If you’re worried about coming off as the bad guy, request that the manager keep you anonymous when alerting the offending tenant.

Be sure to check your lease; most complexes have designated quiet times that begin around 9 or 10 p.m. If your neighbor is shouting or throwing disruptive parties at midnight, you’re absolutely in the right to speak with management about your concerns. In fact, your apartment manager will be glad you did. No one wants a problematic tenant who’s ruining the complex for prospective renters.

Soundproof your apartment

A fan or a white noise machine will help drown out the noise from a busy street or an overactive neighbor. Invest in curtains or drapes for the windows to insulate against outside noise.

Additional tips for the future

If noise is a sensitive issue for you, remember to take it into consideration the next time you’re looking for a new apartment. Always try to live on the top floor, and stay away from high-volume areas (especially apartments close to college campuses). Another factor to note is carpeting; if the person above you has carpeting, the noise will be diminished, unlike with hardwood floors.

Additionally, keep in mind that if you’re going to complain about noise, it’s your duty to be responsible with your own noise as well. Chances are that if you can hear your neighbors, then they can hear you. Always notify your neighbors before you have more than a few people over or if you’re having a formal party, and remember to invite them out of courtesy.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors upon moving in, offer them your phone number, and encourage them to notify you if you get too loud. This will prompt them to reciprocate, which takes care of the awkward moment when you’re debating whether you should use a broom to let #127 know that their late-night dinner party is too loud.

Related:

• Are You a Pushover Renter?
• Feng Shui for Your Tiny Apartment
• A Guide to Sublet Etiquette

Jenny Zhang is a writer at SpareFoot, the online marketplace where you can find and reserve a self-storage unit with comparison shopping tools that show real-time availability and exclusive deals.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

It’s something out of a black-and-white movie. Retreat to Marilyn Monroe’s personal lakefront bungalow, get married in the backyard, and drift off to sleep in your own private sailboat.

Built in 1927, Lake Arrowhead’s “Hilltop” estate was once owned by Music Corporation of America (MCA) co-founder Jules Stein. In the years that followed, several Hollywood icons spent vacations and holidays at the 3.85-acre waterfront estate — from Cary Grant and Rock Hudson to Monroe.

After first hitting the market in 2010 for $14.2 million, the current owners dropped their asking price to $9.975 million in December 2012. The price break didn’t last long, though, with a recent increase to $14.8 million.

Compared with the Lake Arrowhead median list price of $360,000, the home is one of the most expensive listings in the area. But the 15,000-square-foot property at 28751 N Shore Rd, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352 is more of a mansion than a lake house, with 10 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, a great room, conservatory, study, caretaker’s quarters, dock house and car-collector’s showroom.

The current owners commissioned a noted architect to restore the home in 2000, preserving more than 90 percent of the original construction. According to listing agent David Vail’s website for the property, the grounds still include Monroe’s personal bungalow, known as “The Happy Hut.”

In fact, nearly all of the rooms have a story behind their names. The bedrooms are named for their ceiling architecture — from the umbrella-shaped Parasol Room to the high-ceiling Loft Suite. The kids’ Bunk Room is also fitting with sailboat-converted bunk beds lining the walls.

The grounds are well-kept with a tennis court and several walking trails. Listing photos show the outside space being used for weddings, with the formal garden ideal for ceremonies and the half-acre lawn for receptions.

Related:

• Glassy Modern Home Was Rumored Rendezvous Spot for Marilyn Monroe and JFK
• Kennedy Compound Home ‘Gifted’ to Edward M. Kennedy Institute
• Cary Grant’s Former Palm Springs Home Listed for Nearly $3 Million

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here. 

165 Green Rock Dr, Boulder, CO
For sale: $5.5 million

Which came first, the boulder or the house? In Charles Haertling‘s Menkick House, it’s hard to tell.

“He wanted to make sure the house was built around the rock as opposed to making the rock work for the house,” said listing agent James Simpson of Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty.

The American architect was known for masterfully integrating homes with their natural surroundings, echoing Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic architecture seen in Fallingwater, a house built right over a waterfall. Haertling modeled this property after three peaks in the boulder, using horizontal lines to accentuate its prominence.

For the first time in nearly 30 years, the award-winning design is on the market for $5.5 million.

Situated in Knollwood Estates — with views of the Flatirons, Mount Sanitas and Red Rock Canyon — the home was renovated in the 1980s, expanding the kitchen and bathrooms — areas the original design largely ignored.

“Haertling is known for tiny kitchens and bathrooms,” Simpson explained. “He didn’t care or think they required any kind of attention in a house. The [current] family did a good job creating a larger kitchen space than it had.”

Other changes to the Menkick House were mostly aesthetic rather than structural, meaning they could be changed if a buyer was looking to restore the home’s original mid-century modern design or give it a new look.

The original living room design in the Menkick House. Photo provided by James Simpson

The living room today.

“There was a lot more wood in the house everywhere,” Simpson said. “The room with the pool table was originally designed to be a formal living room. It once had dark wood beams, but now it’s covered with sheet rock. The fireplace was an entire wall of river rock instead of Terrazzo finish.”

The home also has a spacious living room and balcony, as well as an upstairs master suite with a patio facing the boulder.

Meanwhile, the exterior hasn’t been touched, with the county deeming the property a historical landmark.

“For me, it’s all about the exterior design,” Simpson said. “Looking at it — at that rock — is really a special experience.”

Related:

• Katy Perry Buys Mid-Century Modern Home in Hollywood Hills
• Organic Architecture Lives On: Frank Lloyd Wright Jr.’s Dorland Home
• Mid-Century Design, Quality & Style Built to Last

Catherine Sherman, a real estate writer for Zillow Blog, covers celebrity real estate, industry trends and home improvement tips. Read more of her work here.