Southern California real estate.

Then and Now Glance at SoCal Real Estate in Hermosa Beach

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Southern California real estate in Hermosa Beach for $35 an acre, anyone? Hermosa Beach properties were first sold after real estate developers purchased the 1500-acre Rancho Sausal Redondo in 1900. Selling barren sand-dunes and windy wilderness 40 miles outside of the city life was not an easy task. Adjacent Redondo Beach was a busy seaport. Inland were fields of grain. The Santa Fe Railway ran through the valley to Redondo and into Los Angeles.

The Strand, a boardwalk along the Pacific Ocean, was built in 1901. A hundred years later, multi-million-dollar homes in Hermosa Beach line the stunningly beautiful shoreline and thousands stroll the once-desolate walkway. How did Hermosa Beach real estate development progress? Sales and marketing, coupled with modern amenities such as the Los Angeles Pacific Railway, drew more and more buyers. The city Incorporated on January 14, 1907 and acquired a two mile stretch of now-famous ocean frontage.

The Chamber of Commerce took an active role in developing early Hermosa Beach property. Adopting the slogan “What the real estate agents can’t do, the Chamber of Commerce can,” the civic organization was a driving force behind a number of upgrades such as a City Hall, pier, better lights, and sanitation. The Chamber of Commerce continues to play a big role in Hermosa Beach.

Witness last weekend’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration, a popular tradition for residents and visitors to Hermosa Beach homes and businesses. Thanks to the excellent organizational skills of the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade features bagpipers, floats, and even the Irish Setters Club of Southern California. Approximately 30,000 people showed up for the fun filled parade. It moves down Valley Drive, turns left on Pier Avenue, and ends at the corner of Hermosa Avenue and 10th St. About 100 local businesses, civic organizations, and school marching bands added their unique Irish twinkle to the festivities.

In the early 1920s, El Camino Real ran down the shoreline of another barren area, Manhattan Beach. This dirt trail became a paved street at Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach and continued into Redondo. During hard times, the summer resort area was popular for people fishing for their dinner. Today, many residents of real estate in Hermosa Beach only know El Camino Real as the Pacific Coast Highway or PCH.

And let’s compare the land prices then and now. What sold for $35/acre in 1900 may be worth up to $150 million/acre today. A 6,000 square foot home on a 4,000 square foot lot along The Strand is selling for $15 million right now.

Buying and Selling Southern California Beach Homes

For more information about real estate in Hermosa Beach and other luxury homes in Southern California, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Showcase of Hermosa Beach luxury properties

Outstanding Beverly Hills Homes for Sale

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Southern California Beverly Hills homes for sale are widely recognized as some of the most outstanding properties in the nation. Properties in Beverly Hills nestle into the lush landscaping and tall palms in the foothills, about 30 minutes from the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by West Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Bel Air,Beverly Hills CA homes and Holmby Hills – all north of Los Angeles – residences in Beverly Hills have drawn larger-than-life personalities to purchase beautiful estate homes since its inception in 1906. Beverly Hills features excellent restaurants, high-end shops, and great entertainment.

Architecture of Beverly Hills Homes

The architectural feast presented by the sophisticated homes in Beverly Hills is a study in itself. Among others, styles include:

  • Mediterranean
  • French Colonial
  • Mid-Century Modern
  • Tuscan Villa
  • Spanish
  • Contemporary
  • Hollywood Regency

Elegant interpretations and design showcase European detail and spectacular views of the city and the surroundings. The use of glass and ornamentation creates quiet drama in the living areas. Dramatic entrances and staircases, large gourmet kitchens, glamorous living areas designed for entertaining, enhanced lighting and skylights, rich woodwork and attention to detail are common traits of Beverly Hills real estate.

Beverly Hills homesThe grounds are spectacular. Sweeping vistas spanning, downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean, can be observed from a stroll down the quiet streets of Beverly Hills. From Swiss-manicured gardens and colorful flowering shrubs to relaxing outdoor living areas, to metal ornamentation and gates, tennis courts, fountains and dramatic swimming pools, homes in Beverly Hills take advantage of the Southern California climate and foothills terrain.

Home Prices in Beverly Hills and Beverly Hills Post Office

Prices for real estate in Beverly Hills ranges from approximately $1 million to over $50 million. Some of the value is in the large home sites, although they may have smaller, older homes. Some of the value is in the extraordinary architecture. On the south side of sunset Boulevard are some multi-family properties and condominiums available in lower price ranges. Prices are also slightly lower in the area outside of city limits, an area referred to as Beverley Hills Post Office. This is an area of Los Angeles located within the Beverly Hills ZIP Code 90210.

Buying and Selling Upscale Southern California Homes

For more information about Beverly Hills homes for sale and other luxury homes in Southern California, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Showcase of Beverly Hills homes

Do Small Lot Subs Belong Next to Venice CA Homes?

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Controversy ensues over whether to continue to allow Venice CA homes to be uprooted by “small lot subdivisions.” Quintessential Venice California, a quaint seaside village in western Los Angeles, features a wildly popular beach walk and destination shops.

This is not the place to find Southern California homes with large or even small acreage. In the January 2014 Venice real estate market last month, the sold single-family homes and multifamily properties featured lots ranging from 1790 square feet to 6249 square feet. These are small lots in attractive, walkable neighborhoods.

Yet our Southern California coastal neighborhoods are becoming even more intimate. In recent years, developers have razzed the historic cottages on some lots. Permits for small lot subdivisions are obtained through the Los Angeles Small Lot Subdivision Ordinance. For example, in 2013 an historic Venice cottage was redeveloped on California Avenue near Abbot Kinney Blvd. The architect had to keep the structure within the 30-foot height limit for this Venice neighborhood. Utilizing a layout taken from 1920s-style bungalows, this project squeezed three homes onto a 40 foot wide by 130 foot deep property. Separated by courtyards and very creative landscaping and building design, each home offers residents privacy and plenty of light. Each residence is accessible by car through the alley.

Recalling how the resort community of Venice of America was founded in 1904, some scratch their heads. Several residents of homes in Venice have signed petitions to halt the use of the Los Angeles Small Lot Subdivision Ordinance in this unique coastal setting. These folks claim the redevelopment does not conform to the California Coastal Act or the Venice Specific Act. The Coastal Act protects areas with recreational and visitors significance. Folks are concerned that small lot subdivisions will diminish the quality of life in Venice.

Venice and Venice Beach reflect the atmosphere in Italy. Homes set in walkable areas, especially in the canal district, are unique in Southern California. On the other hand, Venice is a small community. Most Venice CA homes are under much smaller than 2500 square feet, with many under 1000 square feet. Built throughout the last century, numerous home need updating and modernizing. Although most buildings in Venice are single-family homes, there are also a number of two- and three-unit properties, especially after applying the small lot subdivision ordinance.

Prices for Venice CA homes

Recent sale prices for single-family homes in Venice ranged from $860,000-$2,650,000 with an average sale price in January 2014 of approximately $1,330,000. The average sale price for multifamily properties was slightly higher.

Buying and Selling Upscale Southern California Homes

For more information about Venice CA homes for sale and other luxury homes in Southern California, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Showcase of Venice CA homes for sale

Castellammare Seaside Pacific Palisades Homes for Sale

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Mirroring the Italian coastline, Pacific Palisades homes for sale in Castellammare nestle near the Pacific Ocean. Castellammare is a charming location North of Sunset Boulevard at the Pacific Coast Highway. The famed Getty Villa is located in Castellammare. Pacific Palisades is an affluent neighborhood of approximately 30,000 residents located on the West side of Los Angeles.

Pacific Palisades Homes for Sale in Castellammare

 

Set along the small bluffs on narrow winding streets with Italian names, real estate in the Castellammare neighborhood features unique landscapes and varying styles. Castellammare bathes in the fresh ocean breezes and looks out over the mountains, canyons, and the ocean.

Castellammare features a broad range of Southern California homes priced from $1 million-$12 million. The diverse collection of properties includes quaint villa-style homes, older California-style properties, and newer European-style estates. Lot sizes also very significantly.

Pacific Palisades is mostly residential. That hasn’t stopped the Chamber of Commerce from sponsoring a number of events throughout the year. From running to a parade on Sunset Boulevard, and fireworks, family-friendly events bring out residents and folks from neighboring communities.

Neighborhoods surrounding Pacific Palisades include Brentwood on the east side, Malibu and Topanga on the West side, Santa Monica on the southeast. The Santa Monica Mountains lie North of Pacific Palisades and the Santa Monica Bay is on the northwestern edge.

In addition to the wonderful surfing and beach recreation, Castellammare are surrounded by several beautiful parks and recreational areas around Pacific Palisades. Abutting the Santa Monica Mountains are Rustic Canyon Park, Temescal Canyon Park, and Will Rogers State Historic Park and Polo Club, and the Los Liones Trail.

Students living in Pacific Palisades are served by a variety of public and private schools. The Los Angeles Unified School District operates Marquez Elementary School and Pacific Palisades Elementary School, Palisades Senior High Math/Science Magnet, Palisades Senior High, and a Continuation Senior High. Parochial and private elementary schools include Calvary Christian, Corpus Christie Catholic, St. Matthews Episcopal, and Village schools.

Buying and selling Upscale Southern California Homes

For more information about today’s Pacific Palisades homes for sale in Castellammare and other upscale homes in Southern California, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Showcase of Pacific Palisades homes under $12,000,000.

Luxurious Brentwood Homes in Santa Monica Mountain Foothills

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Brentwood is an affluent community of over 40,000 residents located adjacent to Santa Monica, California and near Beverly Hills.  Blended into the verdant landscape of West Los Angeles, luxurious Brentwood homes offer privacy and terrific views.  Homes in Brentwood are sought by the rich and famous.

At the heart of the Brentwood district are popular shops and businesses along San Vicente Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, and Wilshire Boulevard.  Brentwood Village, Brentwood Country Mart, the Getty Museum, Brentwood Country Club and other popular destinations are part of the rich heritage of Brentwood.  Along with the Barrington Recreation Center indoor and outdoor facilities, the community enjoys outdoor activities along trail systems, at parks, and its special events.

Highly respected Los Angeles schools, magnet schools, and private schools serve families living in Brentwood.  Cantor Canyon Elementary, Brentwood Science School, Westland School, Mirman School, Berkeley Halls, Milken Community High, Brentwood School, Archer School for Girls, and St. Martin of Tours are all located in Brentwood.  Mount St. Mary’s College offers higher education.

Neighborhoods of Brentwood California homes

North of Sunset Boulevard:  Set along the ridges with extraordinary vistas and tucked into the canyons, this gorgeous neighborhood of Brentwood homes features distinctive multimillion dollar estate properties.

South of Sunset Boulevard:  Featuring easy convenience to commercial districts, this area feature single-family homes and quite a number of condominiums and multi-family properties.
Southern Brentwood: This area neighbors Santa Monica and includes Brentwood condominium homes near Sunset Boulevard in an area called Museum Heights.  There are several neighborhoods including Westridge Hills, Brentwood Highlands, and Brentwood Glen (between Sunset, 405, and VA).

Western Brentwood: Several canyons on the West side of Brentwood include Mandeville Canyon, Bundy Canyon, Kenter Canyon and Sullivan Canyon.  Sullivan Canyon edges up to Pacific Palisades and includes an equestrian neighborhood.  In Mandeville Canyon are two subdivisions of Westridge Heights and Brentwood Flats.  Crestwood Hills is comprised of architecturally significant modern homes from the mid-1900s.  It is in the north part of Kenter Canyon.  Other canyon subdivisions include Brentwood Park and Westgate.

Gated Communities:  another selection of beautiful Brentwood homes is located inside gated communities.  Brentwood Terrace is next to Brentwood Country Club.  Burlingame can be picked out because of its sculpted coral trees.  Brentwood Hills is near Mount St. Mary’s College.  Other illustrious gated communities are Brentwood Sunset, Brentwood Country Estates, and Brentwood Circle (East of Barrington/North of Sunset).

The Brentwood area was formally part of the Rancho San Vicente and Santa Monica Mexican farming communities where avocados and soybeans were plentiful.

Brentwood lies between the San Diego Freeway on the east, Wilshire Boulevard on the south, Santa Monica on the southwest, Topanga State Park on the west, and Mulholland Drive on the north.

Buying and selling Upscale Southern California Homes

For more information about Brentwood homes for sale and other upscale homes in Southern California, call Bob coming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Showcase of Brentwood CA homes.

Spectacular Vistas from So. California Homes in Azzurra Del Rey

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So.  California homes in Marina Del Rey’s 19-story Azzurra Del Rey condominium building offers buyers a high-quality lifestyle with spectacular vistas.  Set along the Pacific Ocean, Azzurra Del Rey overlooks one of the largest marinas in the United States.  Residents and guests enjoy postcard perfect views of graceful sailboats and yachts, lapping waves, city lights, and rugged mountains from every vantage.  Ocean breezes freshen life’s canvas.

Azzurra boasts a cosmopolitan theme.  The splendid surroundings are in accord with the thoughtful and beauteous design for Azzurra Del Rey.  The lobby and interior common areas feature the works of well-known artists residing in local So Cal homes.  Many attended the Los Angeles School of Art.  Each of 17 floors is dedicated to the works of a single artist.  The first two floors combine collections of others.

Azzurra Del Ray is comprised of 450 exquisite Southern California condominium homes.  Built-in 2003, the Marina Del Rey properties range from one-bedroom condominiums to a large penthouse the stand out building features sky-blue walls with roomy balconies, very tall windows, and contemporary elements.

Private residences in Azzurra range from one-bedroom properties to an exclusive penthouse with options for reserved parking.  They feature living areas ranging from 1200 square feet to 3500 square feet.  Some primarily overlook the ocean and marina, others the marina and the city lights, and still others the mountains.  Prices range from about $750,000 to $1.5 million.

Extraordinary Azzurra amenities help property owners to enjoy a carefree Southern California lifestyle.  Of Zorro offers a 24-hour guest Valet parking service, concierge, dry-cleaning and carwash services, and a wonderful business/conference center.  From the heated 22-yard swimming pool, well-equipped fitness center, yoga and spinning studio, to the sky lounge on the rooftop, residents and guests discover inviting ways to relax for work and play.

Set on the far western side of Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey is home to approximately 8000 residents.  The sophisticated seaside community is near plenty of upscale shopping, luxurious dining, and world-class entertainment.  Azzurra is a bike ride or afternoon stroll from Venice Beach, an artistic beach town, 10 minutes from the Los Angeles International Airport, even closer to a jet airport, and a half an hour from downtown Los Angeles.  The Los Angeles Unified School District serves Marina Del Rey.

Invest in Southern California Homes in Marina Del Rey

For information about these distinguished Southern California properties in Marina Del Rey, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Marina Del Rey’s Illustrious High-Rise Residences

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High-rise living in the seaside community of Marina Del Rey gives residents vast views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains.  Thousands of boats port in the world’s largest man-made small craft harbor.  Marina Del Rey Southern California homes in one of these soaring condominium buildings come with resort-like amenities and a maintenance-free lifestyle.

Azzura Marina Del Rey Condominiums, Cove at Marina Del Rey, Regatta Seaside, and Marina City Club feature condominium residences on 15 to 20 floors.  The illustrious Marina Del Rey real estate begins at approximately $700,000 and can range to $3 million.  There are studios and one to three bedroom units available in these luxurious buildings.

Amenities galore pamper the residents.  There are swimming pools and spas, hit a full decks and fitness centers, concierge, security and valet services, and much more.  The Marina City Club, a 40-year-old established residential community, also features a restaurant, tennis club, and yacht club – along with social and recreational events.  Business centers and/or gathering rooms and special rooms add to the dimension of living areas.

The Azzura Marina Del Rey real estate includes 450 contemporary residences.  The architectural masterpiece was completed in 2003.  The Cove at Marina Del Rey is another glorious building overlooking the sparkling waters from several penthouses.  The Regatta Seaside tower spans 20 stories and includes 224 sensational condominiums with tall windows and high end finishes.  Built in the 1970s, the Marina City Club was the first high-rise condo building in Marina Del Rey.  Its three distinctive towers include 600 residences.

Minutes from the Los Angeles International Airport, Marina Del Rey condominium homes offering awesome waterfront views and a true California attitude.  Marina Del Rey California real estate is near the mouth of Ballona Creek between Venice Beach and Playa Del Rey.  The Los Angeles International Airport is nearby along with a smaller airport.  The marina itself is a specially designed harbor with moorings for pleasure craft and small boats.

Invest in Southern California Homes in Marina Del Rey

For information about these distinguished Southern California properties in Marina Del Rey, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

Centrally Located Midtown So Cal Homes in Santa Monica

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Southern California homes in Santa Monica are located near the Pacific Ocean on the western side of the city of Los Angeles. A number of moderately priced homes in Santa Monica can be found in the Midtown or Mid-City neighborhood. It is located south of Wilshire Boulevard. Starter homes may also be found in the adjacent Pico area, which is south of Midtown and continues as far as Pico Boulevard. The area begins at Centinela and continues westward to the Lincoln Boulevard business area.

Midtown area consists of newer condominiums and townhomes along with some single-family homes set along the tree-lined streets. On the eastern side of Midtown Santa Monica, some single-family homes are on the streets named after Ivy League schools. Real estate investors and a growing number of professionals have sought out properties in the Midtown neighborhoods. The community is easy to get in and out of. It is also pedestrian friendly.

A large number of the original historic homes in Santa Monica’s Midtown area have been replaced over the last century. The homes built in the early 1900s included some bright colored Victorian and handsome craftsman homes. In the 1940s, a number of structures were replaced with small square California bungalows that have lawns and private yards. Small condominium complexes in apartments replaced a number of these beginning in the 1960s.

Any of the Southern California homes in Midtown Santa Monica may be excellent income-producing properties. Prices range from the $300,000s to $1.5 million. They include:

  • Condominiums and townhomes
  • Duplexes and triplexes
  • Small apartment buildings
  • Single-family homes

Boasting large sandy beaches, eclectic shops and restaurants, wonderful parks, and a friendly atmosphere, Santa Monica is a medium-size city with a friendly ambience. Other popular neighborhoods of homes in Santa Monica are loosely referred to as North of Montana, North of Wilshire, College Streets, North of Wilshire, Ocean Park, Sunset Park, and Santa Monica Canyon.

Families living in the Midtown area are served by the highly regarded Santa Monica School District.

Buying and Selling Southern California Homes

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

Prestigious Pacific Palisades Real Estate in Southern California

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Pacific Palisades real estate overlooks the Pacific Ocean along a nine-mile stretch of the west side of Los Angeles.  The prestigious community nestles on the southern edge of the Santa Monica Mountains.  It is between Santa Monica and Malibu, and Brentwood.  Buyers seek Pacific Palisades real estate to be near the beach and charming village, and for the highly respected schools.

A number of distinct neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades real estate provide buyers with options for home prices and school districts.  Prices range from about $1 million to over $15 million.  Some of the key neighborhoods include Alphabet Streets, The Bluffs, Castellamare, The High lands, The Huntington, Marquez, The Riviera, Rustic Canyon, and Sunset Mesa/Pacific View Estates.

Alphabet Streets is a residential area surrounding the Village.  It features smaller one million dollar bungalows and newer homes for about $3 million.  The Bluffs neighborhood includes Via de la Paz and El Medio Bluffs south and west of Sunset Boulevard.  This Pacific Palisades real estate is convenient to town and to the Bluffs that overlook the ocean.  Prices start at approximately $1.4 million to $4.5 million.

Castellamare is a seaside neighborhood with spectacular views of the ocean.  It includes little villas and European-style estates along streets with Italian names.  Prices generally range from $1.1 million to $5 million.  The Highlands is a newer area of condominiums, townhomes, and two-story homes and estates.  Many of the streets are gated and a portion of the neighborhood is in the Summit Club.  Prices range from $700,000-$6 million.

The Huntington is a walkable neighborhood below Sunset Boulevard and west of Chautauqua.  Homes range from $1.8 million to $6+ million.  Marquez and Marquez Knolles has a vintage feel and some affordable prices starting around $1 million.  The homes in the higher elevations have superb views.  The Riviera is one of the most expensive neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades real estate.  Adjacent to Brentwood, this neighborhood straddles Sunset Boulevard between San Remo and Amalfi.  Homes have bigger lots.  The neighborhoods surrounds the renowned Riviera Country Club.

Rustic Canyon offers privacy in the trees.  It is south of Sunset Boulevard near Santa Monica.  Rustic Canyon offers a combination of expensive small homes and some estate homes on large home sites.  Sunset Mesa/Pacific View Estates are near the Getty Villa, beach, and ocean.  Sunset Mesa is set up on a hill.  Mostly consisting of one-story homes of modest size, the Pacific Palisades real estate is priced from $1.4 million to $2.2 million.  Pacific View Estates has larger homes starting at $1.8 million.

Buying and selling Southern California Homes

For information about distinguished Southern California homes in Pacific Palisades, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.

North of Wilshire So. California Homes in Santa Monica

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Buyers searching for So. California homes in Santa Monica will find a variety of sizes and prices in the North of Wilshire neighborhood.  North of Wilshire is mostly residential.  This neighborhood is bordered by Wilshire Boulevard on the south, Montana Avenue on the north, Franklin Street on the east and Ocean Avenue on the west.

So. California homes in the North of Wilshire neighborhood of Santa Monica boast exceptional schools, proximity to great shops and beautiful parks and recreational facilities.  There are parks near the ocean and parks with play areas for children and tennis courts.

North of Wilshire Santa Monica real estate is comprised of modest-sized three-bedroom homes and condominiums, duplexes, and smaller bungalows.  Prices are slightly lower than the North of Montana neighborhood.  There are about 3000 condominiums and 1000 single-family homes.

Most of the single-family homes are located along 22nd St. and further east.  The west side of the neighborhood is primarily condominiums.  There are also some fantastic mansions in the neighborhood.  For example, on Franklin Hill, the homes are afforded visual access to beautiful Pacific Ocean and city vistas.

Prices generally range from $1.5 million to $4.5 million for single-family homes and $750,000-$900,000 for condominiums and townhomes.  However, there are some new luxury condos at higher price points.

North of Wilshire Boulevard properties are pedestrian friendly.  Favorite shops, galleries, and restaurants along the 3rd Street Promenade, Montana Avenue, Ocean Avenue, and beaches are within walking distance.  The neighborhood is easy to navigate.  An orderly grid of numbered streets flow North/South through the neighborhood.  California, Idaho, and Washington avenues run East/West.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District service families living in the North of Wilshire neighborhood.  Excellent elementary schools with strong parental involvement, Roosevelt School District and Franklin School District, serve this area.  Lincoln Middle School and Santa Monica High School serve older children.

Buying and Selling So. California Homes

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