Southern California real estate.

Malibu Beachfront Homes and Hideaways

Malibu Beachfront Homes and Hideaways

Malibu Beachfront homesMalibu beachfront homes act as dazzling hideaways along the Pacific Ocean in Western Los Angeles.  Malibu comprises a long, narrow community along the beach.  Luxury properties may be cottages or mansions on the sand or nearby gated neighborhoods within walking distance in areas (Broad Beach and Carbon Beach).  Architecture ranges from simple modular homes to fantastic glass houses California Mission and Mediterranean to Cape Cod.

Illustrious beach homes sit on the ocean side of the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu.  Most tuck into the natural vegetation, bluffs and dunes located between Topanga State Park on the east to Point Magu State Park on the west.  The protected Santa Monica Mountain National Recreational Area acts as a barrier from the metropolitan region beyond.

Southern California Beach Real Estate in Malibu

Malibu Beachfront homesWalk out to the beach from any one of 20 homes for sale today on the Southern California homes market. A slice of vacant Malibu beach property occasionally shows up on the market to fulfill the dreams of the select few who can afford to pay $2.5 to $25 million for an acre or two.  Current prices vary tremendously – from $1.5 million to $57.5 million.

Homes Built over a Century

Surprise design makes Malibu especially exciting architecturally, not only the original designs but the remodels and upgrades.  One example of a private, secluded estate comes to mind.  A famous couple transformed their three acres into manicured oasis with mature trees to complement the sensational ocean views.  They added a tennis court.  And they renovated the two-story home, incorporating floor to ceiling sliding glass doors and a large wraparound deck.

Malibu Beaches

Over time, these types of remodels take advantage of the stunning land and ocean views along Malibu’s many beaches.  Malibu beach front homes showcase the amazing surroundings.  Mid-century Modern, with its large beams and plentiful glass, seems to dominate the water’s edge.  Decked out living areas and swimming pools catapult many homes into private hideaways, enhanced by the relaxing sound and mist of the waves

Malibu Beachfront homesThese gorgeous homes span almost three-dozen beaches.  From acreage above Amarillo Beach on the east side to West Malibu the homes are as unique as the beaches.  Gold Coast, La Costa Beach, Broad Beach, Carbon Beach, Escondido Beach, Las Flores Beach, Lechuza Beach, Malibu Colony Beach, Paradise Cove, Big Dume, Western Beach, and the list goes on.

Real Estate Agents Southern California

For information about Malibu beachfront homes and Southern California properties for sale, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Fishers Haven: Properties in Marina Del Rey California

Fishers Haven: Properties in Marina Del Rey California

Properties in Marina Del ReyDo you love sport fishing—or dream of such a hobby?  Dock up close to distinguished properties in Marina Del Rey.  This area is located on the South Bay in Western Los Angeles.  Get started by fishing from the Marina del Rey dock at Fisherman’s Village.

Near the water, Marina Del Rey real estate includes boat slips, condos, and charming single family homes.   Each residence offers desirable beach and ocean amenities, either full-time, on weekends or seasonal.  The fabulous destination also lends itself to investment real estate.

Boat Fishing

The South Bay will unveil itself as one of the most amazing fishing havens in North America.  Join a yacht club. Use your boat as guest quarters on the water.  Or get started on a charter deep sea fishing expedition.  Marina del Rey Sportfishing runs safe and affordable twilight fishing expeditions during summers.

Properties in Marina Del ReyFrom this coastal real estate in Marina del Rey, you can cruise north or south along the coast for good fishin’.  With your boat handily docked in the largest pleasure boat marina in the U.S.A, you could make it down to Dana Point before or after work.  Redonda Beach King Harbor is known for halibut and a long list of favorites.

Pier Fishing

Grab your gear and walk out to one of the iconic fishing piers in the area.  Or cycle over to neighboring Venice Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach Pier, or Santa Monica Pier.  The Catch Could Be Big real in a big catch:  barracuda, sharks, queen fish, seabass.  Hover around Balboa Pier for Pacific mackerel, bonita, and other great ocean fish.  Regardless of where you stop, your bait and rod will certainly attract a variety of fish.

Fishing Licenses

Properties in Marina Del ReyIt is important to mention fishing licenses. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife requires fishermen over age 15 to obtain the proper licenses for fish in the area.  However, anyone can fish from the public piers and land-connected jetties without getting a license.  There are bag and size limits. Without licenses, guests can also enjoy to free fishing days every year. In 2017, these are July 1 and September 2.

And then there is the California Grunion Run in Hermosa Beach.  Head down to the beach during the night to watch a spotting frenzy between March and September. The slippery silver fish can be caught with your hands.

Real Estate Agents Coastal Los Angeles

For information about Los Angeles coastal homes and investment properties in Marina del Rey, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Marina Del Rey Condos

1046 Princeton Lofts
4211 Redwood
Azzurra, Regatta, Cove
Del Rey Lofts
Del Rey Terrace
Element Lofts
Gallery Lofts
Indigo Lofts
Innove
Latitude 33
Marina City Club
Marina Strand Colonies
R1 Brownstones
Steel Lofts
The Lofts on Beach
Villa Marina East IV
Villa Marina East V
Villa Vallarta Townhomes
Villa Velletri
Westend Lofts

Building Renaissance Stirs Marina Del Rey Coastal Village?

Building Renaissance Stirs Marina Del Rey Coastal Village?

Marina Del ReyAs we focus on the coastal village of Marina Del Rey, California, we find some creative investors busily work to infuse the boating haven with new life.  Some visionaries are capitalizing on the sensational setting, creating a sort of renaissance image.  But unfortunately, some efforts have been bogged down in red tape.

Last year Marina del Rey celebrated its 50th anniversary.  Unlike most other coastal communities, it was built to port small craft along the Pacific Ocean.  Thousands of beautiful boats are kept in Fisherman’s Village, a huge manmade harbor.

Vacant land is scare.  Marina del Rey only offers up a total 0.9 miles of land for both public and private use.  It is 17 miles west of downtown Los Angeles.  So how have some of the latest Marina del Rey real estate investments added value to the seaside community?  Below are some details about recent real estate projects.  Hopefully, the vision of our coastal village will become reality one of these days.

Courtyard Marriott and Residence

  • A new 6-story Courtyard Marriott and Residence Inn is being built on a vacant lot.  It will offer 228 rooms in the coastal setting.    Downsized from the original proposal of 19 stories, the Marriott property is being leased from Los Angeles County.  Welcomed by the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the hotel project will also “strengthen the Marina’s position as a premiere travel and tourism designation.”

Marina Del ReyWayfarer Apartments and Marina

  • Wayfarer Apartments and Marina is the Phoenix bird rising from the former Mariners Bay apartments.  These are studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom rentals.  A $65 million renovation by Legacy Partners includes heating and air conditioning and other upgrades.  Common areas in the low-rise complex include a fitness center, swimming pool, boat slips, and tennis courts.

Marina del Rey AMLI Residential Project

  • Next door, 585 residences and a waterfront promenade are going.  This is a $165 million project by AMLI Residential with 700,000 square feet on the waterfront.

Marina Del ReyNeptune Marina

  • Legacy Partners is also partnering on a redevelopment of the Neptune Marina apartments across the street.

Villas at Playa Vista

  • Villas at Playa Vista is adding a 5-story multifamily building of apartment homes.  This is the second phase of the project and will add 1.1 million square feet of options.  Playa Vista sits on the east side of the Marina and Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve.  It is next to Marymount University.

Real Estate Agents Marina del Rey California

For information about Southern California homes for sale and investment properties in Marina del Rey, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Beach Front Real Estate Hermosa Beach

Beach Front Real Estate Hermosa Beach

beach front real estateLive or vacation along The Strand along the mighty Pacific in Southern California.  Beach front real estate Hermosa Beach overlooks wide creamy beaches.  Step across the board walk for a little beach volleyball or stroll out to meet the ocean waves.  Sounds of the water, sounds of the vibrant beachgoers relaxing in the sun.  Homes on The Strand and in the Sand Section offers the ultimate beach lifestyle.  Let’s look at the ultimate villa and a vacant lot on the ocean.

Italian Villa for Sale on The Strand

The distinguished buyer will certainly be at home in this custom built Italian Villa by Ed Beall.  It is exquisite!  The five-suite beauty offers plenty of room for family and friends.  Enjoy 7900 square feet of fabulous indoor living areas, plus balconies and a huge rooftop deck, and a 3-car garage.  The address is 2806 The Strand.  The price is $25,000,000.

If you appreciate the finer things in life, this home will wow with distinctive touches, such as:

  • Custom Italian mosaic tile floors
  • Stunning metalwork on winding staircase
  • Beautiful windows
  • Rooftop opens via rotating skylight
  • Coffered ceilings
  • Rich woodwork
  • Bright and airy design
  • Security cameras and elevator
  • Smart home Creston panes

beach front real estateThe entry level includes a designer Gourmet Kitchen, Music/Living Room, Formal Dining adjacent to large Balcony, Family Room, and Grand Powder Room.  On the beach level is a Great Room with an impressive 800-gallon saltwater aquarium, a Guest Suite, Wet Bar and Memorabilia Room, and a Luxury Theater for eight.  The third floor boasts a Master Suite with unobstructed ocean views and three more Guest Suites.

Prime Vacant Lot on The Strand – Hermosa Beach

If you prefer to build your own beach front home in Hermosa Beach, move quickly to make an offer on this rare corner lot south of 22nd.  Thirty-foot building heights are allowed in this area. The lot features 52′ of oceanfront land.  It is cleared and ready for construction.  Address:  1942 The Strand.  Price:  $9.5 million.

beach front real estateReal Estate Agents Hermosa Beach California

For information about Southern California beach front real estate, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Prices Up, Sales Down for Southern California Homes

Prices Up, Sales Down for Southern California Homes

Southern California HomesWith home prices up, why are sales down? It is getting increasingly difficult to afford Southern California homes or condos. Even with very low interest rates, the number of sales are down.  With home prices increasing steadily in the last several years, many buyers have snatched up homes in the lower price ranges. In July, Los Angeles home sales dropped 17.7%. This is being attributed to low inventories in modest price ranges and challenging affordability.

Housing Affordability

Another way to look at the equation:  Can people afford the monthly mortgage required to purchase coastal real estate.  The California Association of Realtors (CAR) released compelling information last month.  Working people do not make enough income to keep up with the rising prices.  It seems that homebuyers just don’t want to be house poor. The median sales price for a home in Los Angeles increased $23,340 year over year.

A CAR report in August 2016r raises eyebrows.  All six Southern California regions recorded lower affordability numbers. It is no surprise that real estate in the Los Angeles coastal areas and the San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and San Francisco counties register as least affordable with relation to income.
Looking at the Housing Affordability Index, Median Home Price, Monthly Payment including Taxes & Insurance, and Minimum Qualifying Income, we find these local stats:

  • Los Angeles Metro: 33, $470,330, $2305, $92,219
  • Los Angeles: 30, $480,040, $2353, $94,123
  • Orange County: 22, $742,220, $3638, $145,530
  • Santa Barbara: 20, $703,460, $3448, $137,930

Southern California HomesIn all of California, only 31 percent of home buyers could afford to purchase a median-priced ($516,220) existing single-family home.  This party would need an annual minimum income of $101,217.  The example is based on monthly payments of $2,530 on a 30-year fixed mortgage at 3.85 percent interest.  But 40 percent of buyers could afford a median-priced condo or townhome ($411,390) and its $2,017 monthly payment.  The minimum income required would be $80,663.

California Association of Realtors

The California Association of Realtors was established in the early 1900s. It is one of the largest trade organizations in the United States. The 185,000 members of CAR are dedicated to professionalism in real estate. The organization is headquartered in Los Angeles.

Real Estate Agents Southern California

For information about Southern California homes for sale, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Silver Triangle – Venice CA Real Estate

Silver Triangle – Venice CA Real Estate

Venice CA Real EstateThe Silver Triangle neighborhood lies east/southeast of the historic canal zone of Venice, California.  Walk or cycle to the ocean from this desirable Venice CA real estate.

Set between Santa Monica and Marina del Rey, Venice Beach is a wide, 2.5-mile long stretch of sand.  The eclectic California beach area attracts surfers, volleyball players, and sandcastle builders.

West Washington Boulevard separates the Silver Triangle neighborhood from the Marina Del Rey harbor. Washington Boulevard offers a grand assortment of restaurants and shops. Abbot Kinney Boulevard forms the eastern boundary for Silver Triangle.  The wide, palm lined area offers hotels, shopping, and restaurants.  Venice Blvd., Ocean Avenue, Court A, and Sanborn Avenue form westernmost boundaries.

Silver Triangle – Venice Beach Homes

Venice CA Real EstateThe Silver Triangle neighborhood carries on the charming traditions of the canal neighborhoods.  It is next to the Venice Canals vacation cottages built by Abbot Kinney in 1905.

Expect craftsman style bungalows and some modern California style expressions with small yards.  The properties are charming, small, darling – definitely not expansive.  Home prices, nonetheless, range from $750,000-$3 million.

Many of the homes appeared after World War II and featured an average of 1200 square feet.  Unique smaller, colorful single-family beach homes are predominant.  Newer condominiums and suburban homes lie closer to Washington Boulevard.

Although 1 or 2 bedroom homes are still standing, many properties now feature 3/2 floor plans.  A good number boast upgrades and remodels, others could use makeovers.  Fenced outdoor living areas and courtyards, balconies and decks add to the square footage.

Venice CA Real EstateStreets in Silver Triangle Neighborhood

28th Avenue, Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Beach Avenue, Beach Court, Boone Avenue, Bryan Avenue, Clark Street, Clement Avenue, Cloy Avenue, Clune Avenue, Dante Court, Dell Avenue, East Harbor Street, Eastern Court, Frey Avenue, Grayson Avenue, Harbor Street, Holly Court, Linnie Avenue, Marr Street, McKinley Avenue, Mildred Avenue, Ocean Avenue, Ocean Court, Olive Avenue, Olive Street, Oxford Avenue, Sanborn Avenue, Venice Boulevard, Washington Way, Wilson Avenue, Woodlawn Avenue.

Real Estate Agents – Southern California

Call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122. Bob will guide you to Southern California homes in the Venice Beach CA real estate market.

Catch Waves – Malibu Homes at Zuma Beach

Catch Waves – Malibu Homes at Zuma Beach

Malibu HomesOn the shores of western Los Angeles, Malibu homes near Zuma Beach span out from Zuma Canyon.  Zuma is a wonderful area for family fun and beach homes or full-time living.

Zuma Beach is beyond Will Rogers Beach and Surfrider Beach.  It is also close to the Merritt Equestrian Center. The beloved surfer’s haven runs north to Trancas Canyon Road and to Malibu West Beach Club.

Zuma Canyon Real Estate

Real estate close to Zuma Beach runs the gamut.  Options include mobile homes, single-family homes, and gorgeous estates.  And these are works of art!

Malibu HomesThe average Malibu homes in Zuma Canyon features three bedrooms and three baths.  Home prices begin in the $300,000s and top $15 million. The average price is about $1.5 million, the average price per square foot $1100.  See the showcase of current homes for sale.

Lifestyle

Inviting Zuma Beach stretches wide and long.  Lifeguards watch over the colorful beach scene.  As the waves roll into clean sand shore, refreshing mists from the Pacific Ocean fill the air with prana. Build sand castles, plot on your beach towel, or run the dog to one of Malibu’s seaside cafés.  Residents and visitors alike take advantage of the huge, convenient Zuma Beach parking lot.

The stunning beauty of the Malibu coastline stands out along the Pacific. Forests and mountains in the background.  Zuma Canyon homes reflect these breathtaking surroundings.  Then, too, the panoramic coastal sunsets can’t help but add serenity to life.  The casual coastal lifestyle in Zuma Beach unwinds the knots.

Schools

Families enjoy easy access to Malibu High School and Juan Cabrillo Elementary School. Also, private and parochial schools are not far away.

Directions

From Interstate 101/Ventura Freeway, take the exit at Kanan Road towards the Pacific Ocean.  Turn right on Pacific Coast Highway.  Proceed northwest past Coral Canyon Park on the right and Pacific Cove Beach on the left. As the highway curbs to the right, Zuma Beach is on the left.

Buying and Selling Malibu Homes

For information about real estate in So. California, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Good Time to Buy Houses in Manhattan Beach

Good Time to Buy Houses in Manhattan Beach

Houses in Manhattan BeachIf you have purveyed the Southern California coastal real estate market, you might have noticed the growing number of listings for houses in Manhattan Beach.  So notice the good time to buy.  Prices are being cut here in Manhattan Beach.

Prices had been surging since 2012.  We remember some articles from not so long ago:

“Prices continue to climb”
“Manhattan Beach real estate prices go wild”
“Real estate prices up in all beach cities last year”
“Manhattan Beach leads rebound of California’s million-dollar housing market”

Sales have dropped slightly.  We are seeing some Manhattan Beach property sitting on the market for more days and months.  Owners are cutting prices trying to find the market.  We see a couple of dozen recent cuts as we enter the summer season.  The exclusive Manhattan Beach market may be in the process of self-correcting.

Sales in Q1 2016 as compared to say 5-6 years ago are down about 14 percent.  The beginning of this year is the slowest of the past 5 years, in fact.  If we look at the Q4 and Q1 comparison, sales are slower.  During those times, sales averaged 171 per year but there were only 152 sales in the most recent 6 months.

Interest Rate Impacts

Houses in Manhattan BeachCombined, Buyers and Sellers may be banking on those supposed interest rate hikes.  Rate hikes will definitely send non-cash buyers back to the drawing board.  They will need to allocate more money to interest.  This adjusts the affordable price range down pretty substantially for $2.2 million homes.  Some of those buyers will go to the less-expensive beach communities nearby.

As a case in point, the Median Income in Manhattan Beach is approximately $130,000.  A 30-year-fixed mortgage on the $2.2 million house with 20-percent down, brings the principal down to $1,760,000.  Check out the difference in monthly payment differences with just 2 percent differences in interest rates.

3 percent interest: $7,420.23 per month
4 percent interest: $8,402.51 per month
5 percent interest: $9,448.06 per month

If the Buyers puts 50-percent down at 4 percent interest, then the monthly payment can be reduced to $5,251.57.  That is getting more affordable for a family in the Medium Income bracket.

Sellers do not want to get stuck in that scenario.  They are anticipating difficulties down the road. Some baby boomers are retiring to less expensive areas and want to liquidate their primary homes and vacation properties while the going is good.

Manhattan Beach CA Real Estate Agents

For information about Southern California beach real estate and houses in Manhattan Beach, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Southern California Homes with Curb Appeal

Southern California Homes with Curb Appeal

Southern California HomesHave you arrived?  When arriving at the front gates of Southern California homes near the Pacific Ocean, the stunning roar of the Pacific embellishes the curb appeal.  Right?  The oceanic and beach atmosphere plays beautifully into your first impression of the neighborhood.  Do you know that curb appeal plays heavily into exactly which three homes make it to the buyers list of the top three?

Take the newly listed Pacific Palisades home briefly owned by NBA player DeAndre Jordan.  Enter the dazzling ocean-view estate through gates past a garden and waterfall.  Listing price:  $12.895 million.

No matter who the buyer, first impressions affect the home buying decisions here in sunny California and elsewhere.  The fabulous views and enticing waves heighten the curb appeal from Malibu to Marina Del Rey.  Sellers take note.  Take some steps to improve the first impression of your home.Southern California Homes

How You Can Improve Curb Appeal

  1. Clean.  Wash the driveway, house and garage, windows, and foliage.  Repair fencing and gates.
  2. Walkway.  Imagine the person strolling up the front walkway.  Create a meandering feel by varying the width and vegetation along the walk.  Repair or replace the walkway materials, concrete or stepping stones.  Consider putting in some curves or accents such as brick to play off the house trim.
  3. Lighting.  Check the light fixtures and light bulbs.  Are they in good repair or out of date?  Does the light glare or glow?
  4. Tips.  Pull elements of the home’s style and color into the landscape.  For example, Terra cotta pots may play off of the roof tiles.  Square pots may accent contemporary architecture.  Urns may play into arched windows.
  5. Trees.  Plant baby trees and bushes with enough space to grow to full size.  This includes allowing space between the tree and the house.   And choose trees with interesting branches instead of one big trunk.
  6. Decorations.  Carefully select doormats, fountains, benches and other ornamental pieces to be within one style or theme.  Match the mailbox and house numbers to the style.
  7. Garage doors.  These can make or break the curb appeal, especially for older homes.  Consider painting or replacing a plain Jane white garage door, but be sure to blend the style with the existing home design.

Real Estate Agents Manhattan Beach California

For information about Southern California homes for sale, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Southern California Condos for Better or Worse

Southern California Condos for Better or Worse

Reasons to Buy Condos vs. Detached Homes

Southern California CondosCondominiums are a step above renting apartments because they allow owners to build equity and resell.  In addition, Southern California condos provide a sense of community in the big metro areas such as Los Angeles.   On the surface, condominiums are usually priced lower than similar homes and have a few extra amenities. Amenities usually include landscaping services, pool maintenance, fitness rooms, and building repairs – essentially a carefree lifestyle.

The quality of the condo association can make all the difference. Well-managed condominiums are organized. The Association sets aside reserve funds for capital improvements and regular maintenance such as painting.  And they keep up with everything.

Reasons to Think Twice About Condos

There can be some deal breakers in the condo lifestyle.  Some people love him and others regret their condo purchases.  Many do not like sharing walls or ceilings and floors with other people and they don’t like the outside noises that they have no control over.  Along the same vein, many of the condominium complexes share entrances, making the comings and goings of the residents fairly public.

Southern California CondosFinancial problems can add stress. Owners are responsible for repairs inside the condo.  And remember to factor in the ongoing costs of all of the amenities and services that are being provided.  Some Associations issue emergency repair assessments or thousands of dollars because they have no reserves. Then too, condominiums may be difficult to sell if several go on the market at the same time.

Luxury New Condominiums for Sale

So if you decide on a condo, why not go new?  Many of us like vintage and repurposed possessions; others prefer brand spanking new everything. So it goes for Southern California condos. New, of course, means updated design and technology. Brand new means gleaming surfaces without blemishes and the immaculate new appliances, new tile, carpet, and hardwoods, new plumbing, new fixtures. Buyers looking for new homes in Southern California may often get to the negotiation table in time to select colors and finishes.

Southern California Condos

Everly at Playa Vista, CA

In western Los Angeles, it is worth the time to check out these new condominiums for sale in Santa Monica, Venice, and Beverly Hills:

  • 512 Brooks Avenue, Venice, CA
  • 929 20th St., Santa Monica, CA
  • 447 North Doheny Dr., Beverly Hills, CA
  • Everly at Playa Vista, CA
  • 460 Palm, Beverly Hills, CA

Established Condominium Complexes

Sometimes it is nice to be a part of an association that has a little experience.  Ask about the slightly used condominiums in the area, such as:

Southern California Condos

225 South Hamilton Dr. Unit 108, Beverly Hills 90211

  • 225 South Hamilton Dr. Unit 108, Beverly Hills 90211; 2150 square feet, $1.5 million
  • 1046 Princeton Drive Unit 205, Venice 90292; 3030s square feet, $1,895,000
  • 4080 Glencoe Ave. Unit 216, Marina del Rey 90292; 1530 square feet, $1 million
  • 447 N. Doheny Drive Unit 400 to, Beverly Hills 90210; 3937 square feet, $3,950,000
  • 939 20th St. Unit 5, Santa Monica 904 03; 2973 square feet, $2,885,000. Unit 7 1886 square feet, $1,850,000

California Condo Market

There are an increasing number of buyers in the condo markets.  Throughout the State of California, condominium communities and townhouse communities are in high demand, there are hundreds of floor plans ranging from 1 to 5 bedrooms. Prices range from the low $200,000-$20 million.

Southern California Luxury Real Estate Agent

For information about Southern California condos and luxury homes, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.