Palm Springs & Desert area Real Estate

Palm Springs Area Real Estate Sales.

RUSSELL HILL, Realtor, HomeSmart, 760.898.8399; russell@poolsidewithrussell.com,DRE 1427657

Friday, December 30, 2011

Deasy/Penner&Partners, a boutique real estate firm

deasy/penner&partners was featured in yesterday's LA Times.  The story is HERE.

What I find most interesting about the article is the fact that small real estate companies are finding success  in our current market.  It shows you that many sellers (and buyers) appreciate the high level of service and attention they get from agents who understand and appreciate the benefits of working at a "boutique" firm.

I've had conversations with sellers who think the only way to sell their home is by hiring an agent who works with a large company. They think the large company can market their home more successfully.  In reality, that's not necessarily the case. Since most buyers begin their search on-line ( as you're doing now), it's important for a listing agent to have quality photos of the home. These photos aren't shown just on the local MLS, but get "shared" on blogs like mine, on Face Book, Twitter and other real estate sites, such as Realtor.com, Trulia, etc.etc. They're there for the world to see! It's important for those photos to be the best quality and to show your house in its best light.

An agent at a small firm has as much access to buyers for his/her listings as an agent at "X" big brokerage. It's simply true in our high-tech world.

A good quality agent with a small firm who invests the time, effort and money required to market your home for sale in a manner that will get it in front of more buyers in its best light is better, by leaps and bounds,  than an agent at a big firm who doesn't.

When you want to sell your home, don't automatically contact agents at big firms only; meet with the agent at a boutique firm who understands the importance of quality marketing and who works for a firm that cultivates creativity and teamwork.  It might be the difference between buyers looking at mediocre photos of your home plastered across the internet and reading boring descriptions of your home OR enticing buyers around the world with professionally done photos and with a well thought out and creative written description of your home.  

Russell Hill
760.902.3121

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Palm Springs Condos for Sale - Riviera Gardens - 353 E Via Escuela, #217, $149,000.

My focus is selling real estate located in South and Central Palm Springs, but occasionally I'll showcase a property on the North end.  I saw this terrific Riviera Gardens "bungalow" condo last week when I was showing condos.

Most units in Riviera Gardens are upper/lower.  You're either climbing stairs, or you're under a neighbor.  The "bungalow" units are 2 bedrooms, 2 baths on one level with no one above you.  They also have a wonderful courtyard entry, plus a smallish "back" patio.  There's 1183 square feet of conditioned space, but with our wonderful climate, don't forget the large courtyard for al fresco dining, or for enjoying evening cocktails.  

This unit is tiled in a stylish, neutral color tile throughout.  There are lots of windows for great natural light, plus direct mountain views and views of the green space.  The setting really is fantastic.  

The two bedrooms have great separation.  Laundry is inside.  See the mountains from the kitchen window!

You own the land.  Reasonable Homeowner's dues.  Contact me to see this one! 760.902.3121

Russell Hill
760.902.3121


Most recent bungalow unit sales in Riviera Gardens: $140K, $141,750, $153,500.

Ample dining area. Large Living room with lots of windows is to the right.


Bright kitchen with lots of storage.

Riviera Gardens Bungalow unit. Courtyard entry. Only one common wall.





Listed with Becky Bowles and Rhonda Mann

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - The Morrison - Central Palm Springs, $550,000.

Are you looking for new construction and want to be close in to downtown Palm Springs?  Do you want your own private pool, but don't want a big yard to worry about?  Check out The Morrison, A Nexus Companies development located at Alejo and Avenida Caballeros in Central Palm Springs, just a short stroll to downtown Palm Springs.

The architecture is modern contemporary.  This particular unit, offered at $550K, is three bedrooms, three baths in 2181 square feet.  The lot is 5,713 square feet. Each of the four floor plans offered are two levels.

Land is fee simple (you own).

The developer encourages broker cooperation, so contact me to introduce you to this new development. 760.902.3121

Russell Hill
760.902.3121







Photo source: Nexus Companies Palm Springs

Friday, December 16, 2011

Saguaro Hotel Palm Springs

Curbed LA reports that Sydell Group, the developers of the Saguaro Hotel Palm Springs received approval for their colorful exterior color scheme from the Palm Springs Planning Commission.  Good for them!  After the Architectural Review Committee and City Planning Director rejected the bid last month, the developers appealed to the planning commission, and, thankfully, received approval, 5-0-1. Saguaro Palm Springs will have the same design ascetic as Saguaro Scottsdale.

Sydell Group also developed the Ace Hotel & Swim Club located just down Palm Canyon from the Saguaro. 

The Ace Hotel is hugely popular and a big improvement for the adjoining neighborhoods.  It's a fun place where nearby residents can go for a delicious meal or a cold drink.  Or, just sit by the pool and people watch! 

I'm hopeful the Saguaro will be the same for us residents close by! 

The Saguaro Hotel coming to Palm Springs!
E Palm Canyon Dr and Sunrise Way.

Russell Hill HomeinPalmSprings.blogspot.com 760.902.3121 

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale, Foreclosures - Los Compadres - 2347 E Sonora Rd, $348,000.

Here's another great opportunity to get a sought after Los Compadres neighborhood home.  The foreclosure signs are up, but it's not listed on the MLS yet (no price to list, but guess it's going to be in the low to mid $300Ks. Likely higher given repairs bank is making.  See below). LISTED AT $348K.

The two blocks of Sonora between Farrell and Cerritos are part of the original La Reina Estates neighborhood developed in 1973-1974.  The other streets of the original small neighborhood, four of which are cul-de-sacs, are Santa Ynez Way, El Chorro Way, La Reina, Amarillo Way, Conchita Way and Cerritos (between Sonora and Palm Canyon).  There are five homes on each block, ten on each cul-de-sac.

If you're not familiar with these homes, they're very well constructed and have great floor plans and lots of natural light.  This home is 4 bedrooms, 3 baths in 2224sf.  South-facing pool and mountain views. 11,761sf lot.  Power lines are buried.

I got to take a look inside yesterday and the photos I took with my iPhone are below.  It will need some work, first and foremost, a new roof. Bank has painted interior and is putting on a new TILE roof.  I'm sure it's the original shake roof.  The home has newer floor tile, which many people will find in good taste.  The tile is laid on a diagonal and looks to be in good shape.  Shower enclosures have also been done.

If you're interested in getting in before it goes on the market (or even after!), contact me.  760.902.3121


Good California Ranch architecture. clerestory windows, vaulted ceilings
in the living, dining rooms.
View to the pool from the kitchen, dining room and "bar car".
Dual fireplace separates the living room and dining rooms

Dining area looking to the kitchen. Two large patio doors
open to the backyard and pool
Fantastic mountain views from the south-facing backyard.
A few improvements and this backyard could be spectacular!
Click on the link above at "Los Compadres" to see other homes for sale in the neighborhood.

Listing agent Unknown at this time 12/15/11 Listed with Evan Badt

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - Twin Palms - 1825 S Aquanetta Dr., $695,000.

I saw this great Alexander located in the Twin Palms neighborhood today on broker caravan.  It's modern with lots of mid century elements such as clerestory windows (newer double pane for energy savings!), exposed tongue-and-groove ceilings and open beams.  The kitchen and baths are remodeled nicely.  The home is flooded with natural light and has a modern, yet warm feel.  The saltwater pool and spa are tiled in soothing and stylish white.  There is a pool cabana that is also perfect as a home office, or guest bedroom.

Fantastic views of the mountains, from inside and poolside!

The location is superb, within a short stroll to Koffi and the Ace Hotel.

If you're looking for a remodeled Alexander that remains mid century in style, feel and flow, contact me to see this one. 760.902.3121

Russell Hill
760.902.3121

Beautiful private pool and gardens.
Captivating mountain views.
Lots of clerestory windows provide lots of natural light and mountain views!






Listed with Dean Sipe

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Palm Springs Real Estate Sale Data - November, 2011

Sales remain brisk in Palm Springs, particularly in the the condo resale market and single family homes priced below $500K.  The data for November, '11 is below, along with comparisons for November, 2009 & 2010.

Central Palm Springs:

Condos:

19 sales,  median sales price, $143K, $149.51sf.
low sales price: $58K; high sales price: $602,500.

2010: 19 sales, $163K, $138.71sf
2009: 15 sales, $157K, $150.36sf

Single Family Homes:

35 sales, median sales price, $467,395., $221.87sf
low sales price: $135K; high sales price: $2,000,000.

2010: 16 sales, $469,500., $242.81sf
2009: 13 sales, $370K, $241.84sf


South Palm Springs:

Condos:

23 sales, median sales price, $145K, $109.78sf
low sales price: $38,600.; high sales price, $385K

2010: 30 sales, $203,500., $116.68sf
2009: 29 sales, $187K, $138.68sf

Single Family Homes:

15 sales, median sales price, $490K, $204.87sf
low sales price: $205K; high sales price: $852,500.

2010: 19 sales, $389K, $174.59sf
2009: 17 sales, $521,500., $206.09sf


Source: Desert Area MLS.

Russell Hill 760.902.3121 RussellHill@dc.rr.com HomeinPalmSprings.blogspot.com

Monday, December 12, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - Indian Canyons - 2469 S Caliente Dr. - $1,235,000.

I saw this fantastic home last weekend and couldn't wait to post it on the blog.  Located on a great street in South Palm Springs' Indian Canyons neighborhood, this light-filled home is on the 12 fairway of the Indian Canyons Golf Course and has awe-dropping views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.  Designed by Wendell Veith, AIA and constructed in 1969, this modern desert home offers floor-to-ceiling glass, clerestory windows, stacked stone and a flat roofline. Stunningly modern, yet warm and inviting.

The private pool and spa are front-loaded in what essentially is an outdoor room that receives ample sunshine for year around use. Golf course side is an enclosed patio space with beautiful landscaping, a large water feature; it's a perfect spot for morning coffee and evening cocktails.

All rooms are nicely sized. There are 3 bedrooms, 3 baths in 3560sf.

Contact me for an appointment to see this exceptional desert home.  760.902.3121

Russell Hill
760.902.3121




Private front-loaded pool & spa.
Walls of glass open to the enclosed back patio located on the 12th
fairway of the Indian Canyons Golf Course.
California indoor-outdoor living is ideal in the modern designed home.
Updated kitchen for today's lifestyle.
Beautiful enclosed patio with fountain, fire pit & desert garden. 
Modern architecture - walls of glass, clerestory windows, stacked stone
flat roofline. 





Listed with Marc Lange/Carl Blea

Friday, December 09, 2011

Palm Springs Condos for Sale - Biltmore - 1552 S Camino Real, #333, $118,000.

The Biltmore condos are quite popular with snowbirds.  This one bedroom, one bath top floor unit is all done and ready to move in to.  Offered furnished, so just bring some clothes and a toothbrush!  This is an end unit, with no common walls in the bedroom.  An ample sized balcony offers beautiful views of the mountains and grounds.  While not large, the layout of these units is superb; there's no wasted space and there are various options for furniture layout!

Worried about climbing stairs to a top floor, no one above you unit?  Don't be, because the Biltmore is one of the few condo developments in Palm Springs that has an elevator. You get the top floor with fantastic views + no need to climb stairs!

If you're looking for your place in the sun in a great location in Palm Springs, see this one.  760.902.3121

Great pool/spa surrounded by palm
trees and mountains.
Russell Hill
760.902.3121



Living room and "bar car" open to balcony. 18" tile on a diagonal.

Beautifully remodeled kitchen with solid surface counter tops,
maple cabinetry and good flow.  Lots of storage.

Stainless Steel appliances, gas cooktop, separate dining area.  























Listed with Russell Hill

Wednesday, December 07, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - Los Compadres - 1481 S San Joaquin Dr., $359,900.

This Los Compadres foreclosure just came on the market.  I haven't had an opportunity to see inside yet, but it appears to be a good deal for the neighborhood.  It has three bedrooms and three baths in 2300sf. The lot is just over a quarter acre and has a pool. If you're interested in seeing this well-priced home, contact me to see it.  760.902.3121

The last foreclosure in the neighborhood - 2275 E Conchita Way - sold in October, 2011 for $347,000./$168.61sf.



Russell Hill
760.902.3121


* click on the link above (Los Compadres) to see other homes currently listed in the neighborhood.

good curb appeal on a well-kept street.


Covered patio and pool.


Vaulted ceilings in the living room/dining room. Separate family room
is located off the kitchen. Pool access from living room and family room.


Listed with Yolanda Ferrero

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

What's happening in Palm Springs this December

There are two fun events occurring this weekend.  The Festival of Lights Parade is Saturday, 3 December, starting at 5:45.  Watch the parade along Palm Canyon Drive.

In Indio, the two day Tamale Festival is at the Polo Fields Saturday and Sunday, 3 & 4 of December.

To see Palm Springs events that occur throughout the year, be sure to click on the tab above (Palm Springs Calendar of Events).

Russell Hill
760.902.3121

Palm Springs Condos for Sale - Country Club Estates - 1973 Camino Real, $248,000

Country Club Estates was designed by A. Quincy Jones, FAIA and constructed in 1965.  Some of the mid century design elements still in place are the floor-to-ceiling patio doors, terrazzo flooring, use of block, and a large central atrium.

The private atrium is open with glass on three sides - at the entryway, living room and from the master bedroom.  The options for making this outdoor space spectacular are many.

The natural light is fantastic.  The terrazzo flooring is still in tact.  The ceilings are tall. The space is open and modern.

This is a perfect opportunity for someone who wants to undergo a project to make this space shine again.

There are two bedrooms, two baths in 1486sf.  The atrium and patio increase the living space substantially.

To see, contact me at 760.902.3121

Russell Hill
760.902.3121




Private central atrium opens to the master bdrm, living room and entry way.

Living, dining and kitchen, Walls of floor-to-ceiling glass open to a
large patio. A fireplace is on the opposite wall.

Country Club Estates, Palm Springs. Constructed in 1965, designed by
A. Quincy Jones, FAIA.  Located near shopping, restaurants and services.


Recent Sales in Country Club Estates: 720 La Verne Way, $274,000.






Listed with Dean Foster
   


Monday, November 28, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - Deepwell - 1076 E Deepwell Rd, $1,100,000.

I saw this Deepwell home several weeks ago on broker tour.  I spent quite a while there soaking in the cool architecture and design elements. It's a fantastic example of a 50's Ranch home and offers lots of details, such as a built-in sofa! Walls of glass bring lots of natural light into the warm interior. At 4000SF, there's plenty of room for entertaining and family gatherings. Three bedrooms, four and a half baths.  For further details, or for an appointment to see, contact me at 760.902.3121


Russell Hill
760.902.3121



Mountain views from the pool and garden. Lot is over one half acre!
Ample living spaces with abundant natural light.
"Family room" with direct access to pool/spa and back gardens.



Listed with Marc Lange/Carl Blea

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Palm Springs Condos for Sale - Park Imperial South, $339K

large patio for lounging
If you like mid century architecture and you're looking for a condo in Palm Springs, you should see this one.  Lots of natural light floods this condo through ample glass, including the triangular windows formed by the folded plate roof.  Designed by Barry Burkus, AIA in 1960, Park Imperial South still screams mid century modern today. The Homeowner's Association is intent on keeping the buildings and grounds as true as possible to the original design and aesthetic.  The recent installation of a new pool enclosure is a good example of the board's design sense.

This condo has 3 bedrooms, one of which opens to the open living room and makes a great den or office space, and two bathrooms.  The second guest bedroom, along with living room, has direct access to the oversized patio. The master suite is a good size and offers lots of natural light.

Contact me for a private showing, or with questions. 760.902.3121



Russell Hill
760.902.3121



New counter tops. Original stove and exhaust vent


Folded plate roof is stunning visually. Lots of natural light.

Listed with Donna Peace

Friday, November 04, 2011

Palm Springs Real Estate

17 homes and condos sold for the week from 10/24/11 - 10/30/11.

Central Palm Springs:

Sundial Condos, 2/2, $134,700.
Sundial Condos, 2/2, $135,000.
St Tropez Villas, 3/3, $175,000.
Village Traditions, 2/2.5, $225,000.
48@Arenas, 2/2.25, $290,000.
48@Baristo, 3/3, $328,000.
St Baristo, 3/3, $640,000.

Ruth Hardy Park, 3/2, $265,000.
Ruth Hardy Park, 3/3, $290,000.
Old Las Palmas, 3/4.5, $655,000.
Vista Las Palmas, 4/4, $889,900.

South Palm Springs:

Sandstone Villas, 2/2, $100,000.
Gardens Villas, East, 3/2, $235,000.
Canyon Estates, 3/4, $378,000.
Canyon Estates, 3/2.5, $410,000.

Los Compadres, 3/2, $360,000.
Warm Sands, 3/3, $500,000.

Source: Desert Area MLS.

If you want more information about any of these sold homes, contact me at 760.902.3121

Russell Hill
760.902.3121

Thursday, November 03, 2011

October '11 Single Family Homes and Condo Sales Data

Below is the sales data for October '11 in Central and South Palm Springs.

Central Palm Springs:

Single Family

21 sales, median sales price, $450K, $196.02SF

Condos

20 sales, median sales price, $126K, $111.52SF

South Palm Springs:

Single Family

14 sales, median sales price, $421K, $205.25SF

Condos

20 sales, median sales price, $147K, $119.14SF


Source: Desert Area MLS

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - Ruth Hardy Park - $477K

I saw this terrific 1947 Ruth Hardy Park home a couple of weeks ago on broker caravan.  It was my favorite, by far, of the day.

It's bright and cheery with a south-facing pool, patio and garden.  The floors are honed concrete, the ceiling, post and beam, painted a crisp white. The galley like kitchen is remodeled with slab granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances.

There are technically three bedrooms and two baths.  Currently, though, and to good effect, the third bedroom is opened to the living room and utilized as a den.  It makes for a nice open space. For those needing a dedicated third bedroom, it's not difficult to convert this space back.

The windows are original metal casement windows. They are WONDERFUL!  Though not efficient, the character they provide is, dare I say, irreplaceable.

If you're looking for a home with tons of character, that is move-in ready and priced in the $400Ks, contact me to see this one.  It's fantastic! 760.902.3121

Sparkling pool enclosed by mature hedge, mountain views!
Living room, dining room and kitchen open to back garden, patio & pool
Updated bath with mosaic tile shower   


Russell Hill
760.902.3121





Listed with Tyler, Todd and Keith

Friday, September 16, 2011

Palm Springs Condos For Sale - Garden Villas East - $255,000.


I saw this spacious Gardens Villas East condo on broker tour Wednesday.  I've always liked this development (along with the adjacent Gardens Villas West).  This unit is located well off the through streets of Barona and Morongo, essentially ensuring no street noise!  While it's a cosmetic fixer, this almost 2000sf 3/2 condo is clean and tidy; most buyers will just find that it needs new finishes.  The space is great, as is the natural light.  There's a large patio with mountain views. There's easy outdoor access from the living room, den (3rd bedroom) and from the mater suite.  

Large living room with open den (or 3rd bedroom), dining &
Kitchen
If you're looking for a desert getaway, or even a full-time home, and want a condo because of ease of maintenance (close the door and go), but also want a space that lives like a house, you should consider this unit in Garden Villas West.  Contact me for more information, or for a showing. 760.902.3121
Large patio with mountain views
runs the length of the condo
One of two pools.  
Dining area open to kitchen and living room, with access
to patio






















Russell Hill
760.902.3121




Listed with Joe Simeone

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Palm Springs Vacant Land For Sale -Ridge Mountain, $629K

If you're looking to build your dream home on a large lot that has mountain, valley and city lights views, you should consider my Ridge Mountain listing.

Ridge Mountain is located in South Palm Springs, off South Palm Canyon Drive towards the Indian Canyons.  It's gated with paved streets and electric and water are available.

The views are spectacular!  Mountains, valley and city.  All from one site.

The building site is perfect for constructing an architecturally significant home, with lots of boulders and interesting terrain.

While this particular parcel is zoned for more than one structure, developers will be interested to know that the owner of the adjoining parcel, also zoned R2, is interested in selling.  I have open communication with his broker and know that he wishes to sell.  This provides a unique opportunity while construction costs and material costs are low to build out these two lots.

Contact me for more details, or for access to Ridge Mountain. 760.902.3121



Ridge Mountain Lot with valley, mountain and city lights views
Paved and curbed streets
Interesting terrain for an architecturally significant home
Views towards the Indian Canyons, Palm Springs


Thursday, September 08, 2011

Palm Springs Homes for Sale - Demuth Park

This Demuth Park home at 3710 E Mesquite Ave. came on the market Tuesday.  It's already in escrow with multiple offers over asking price!  Granted, it was listed under market value at $124,900. as a short sale and was priced to generate multiple offers.  The plan worked.

It's a nice home, particularly for the price, even if it sells well over asking.  The only negative I saw was that it's on Mesquite Ave., a relatively busy street, especially when events occur at Demuth Park, which is directly across the street from the home.  The park, of course, is a positive for many people, so maybe it outweighs the level of car traffic?

It's too late to see this one, but there will be others!  Contact me if you want me to look for you! 760.902.3121








Russell Hill
760.902.3121



Listed with Michael Layton