Calabasas & Hidden Hills Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.danaandjeffestates.com/blog/Copyright DanaAndJeffEstates.com2022-07-05T10:24:17-07:00tag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:20472Britney Spears Buys a Lavish Calabasas Mansion.What Britney wants; Britney gets. The newlywed international pop superstar, with her now-husband Sam Asghari, celebrated their wedding by purchasing a property in Calabasas, within the double-gated Estates at Oaks neighborhood. The exclusive community is no stranger to high-profile celebrities, with Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker also living in the area. Indeed an A-list community.
The couple, married just last June 9 in Spears’s mansion in Hidden Valley near Thousand Oaks, purchased the property for $11.8 million. With the structure being built in 2008 and last sold in 2012 to car dealership mogul Bill Slevin, amenities for this house were and still are off the charts: from a wine cellar, a 10-seat movie theater with Dolby surround sound, a wet bar lounge, and even a room with the sole purpose of being a gift-wrapping area. The lavish mansion consists of six bedrooms and nine baths, with a total property area of 11,600 square feet while maintaining a single-floor space.
Fitting Spears’ fancy and decorated personality, soaring custom steel entry doors open to striking interiors ornamented with imported onyx, hardwood, stone floors, vaulted ceilings, wide-arched hallways, custom-made chandeliers, hand-carved fireplaces, and Ann Sacks mosaic tile designs.
Other exceptional features include a 33-foot foyer covered in Cantera stone, a formal dining room, a wood-paneled study area, and an impressive living room emphasizing a vast fireplace. Moving towards the other areas of the house, an already fully equipped gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances is something many people would be envious of. Add into this is the massive center island and breakfast nook.
A 2,000-square-foot al fresco entertaining patio, flexing a barbecue center and fireplace, adjoins a spacious family room, further accentuating the property's extravagance. Finally, after a tiring day’s work, the couple could enjoy the magnificent, yet cozy master retreat stocked with an exercise room, sitting area, terrace, and guess what, a fireplace.
Complement that with dual walk-in closets with walnut and alder wood cabinetry, and you get the complete package. The shower and room consist of a luxurious marble bath with a soaking tub and a steam shower. Moving outdoors, 1.6 acres of grounds include a 55-foot pool, spa, layered waterfalls, and a waterslide. Within the general outdoor area is the one-bedroom guesthouse with its kitchen capped off by a five-car garage.
Are you looking for a luxury estate to call home? Frontgate is the future of real estate, having created a streamlined, tech-savvy, personalized experience for buyers and sellers. From selection to service, the team's operational excellence is unmistakable, and they guide their clients with a friendly, casual approach. View our recent listings <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/">here</a>.
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2022-06-30T09:20:00-07:002022-07-05T10:24:17-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:20122Luxury Homes Are in High DemandAs people realize their needs change, some turn to luxury housing to find their dream home. Investopedia helps define what pushes a home into this category. In a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/092414/investing-luxury-real-estate.asp" target="_blank" title="recent article">recent article</a>, they point out that a luxury home isn’t only defined by its price. Location is also an important factor. It could be a condo at a desirable city address, a spacious home on the water, or one with access to luxury activities like arts and entertainment, high-end shopping and dining, and more. The home itself will also boast some of the finest features available.
According to the <a href="https://www.luxuryhomemarketing.com/assets/LMR_NorthAmerica.pdf" target="_blank" title="Luxury Market Report">Luxury Market Report</a> from the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, there’s been a substantial increase in how many buyers are purchasing luxury homes over the past two years. It says:
“. . . North America recorded the fastest growth of demand during the first year of the pandemic. Also, demand has . . . consistently increased, and even in April 2022, we saw a higher volume of sales compared to 2021.”
If you own a luxury home, it could be a great time to <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/04/your-house-could-be-closer-to-list-ready-than-you-think/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="list your house">list your house</a> today while demand is so high. But first, let’s understand where the demand is coming from.
What’s Driving the Heightened Buyer Demand for High-End Homes?
The same report says more people have reached a certain net-worth threshold, and that’s contributing to the increased interest in luxury housing:
“In 2020, we saw a 2.2% growth in the number of individuals with wealth of over $5 million in net value, but in 2021 that number grew by an outstanding 19.8%.
This total increase has resulted in the introduction of over 660,000 new individuals into the high net-worth bracket, which, combined with the existing affluent looking to both diversify and add new properties to their portfolio, provides a true insight into why the demand for luxury properties skyrocketed during 2021 and into 2022.”
So, if you’re looking to make changes to your real estate portfolio or are <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/16/if-youre-a-homeowner-you-have-incredible-leverage-when-you-sell-today/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="looking to sell">looking to sell</a> your current house, it may be a <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/28/what-you-need-to-know-about-selling-in-a-sellers-market/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="great time to list">great time to list</a> and benefit from the high demand for luxury homes today.
Bottom Line
If you own a luxury home and want to know how strong demand is in your area, let's connect so you can capitalize on current market conditions while buyer demand for upscale homes is so high. <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/">Frontgate</a> is the future of real estate, having created a streamlined, tech-savvy, and personalized experience for buyers and sellers. Dana, Jeff, and the Frontgate team consistently advise a wide range of influential buyers and sellers in a manner and style that has earned them recognition on a national level. <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/">Contact us</a> today to learn more! 2022-06-11T08:03:00-07:002022-06-11T07:28:11-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19875Amber Heard Off the Grid in Yucca Valley HomeThe recently wrapped up Depp v. Heard defamation trial was full of bizarre information and unexpected reveals. Still, arguably one of the most surprising was when Amber Laura Heard, the “Aquaman” star, confirmed that she was currently residing in Yucca Valley, California.
Why is this such a surprise? Amber Heard is known as a glamorous Hollywood actress who once dated Elon Musk. When married to Johnny Depp, they had extravagant homes located in beautiful settings worldwide. Now, she’s residing in a small, anonymous town in the Mojave Desert, 120 miles east of Los Angeles.
Interestingly, Heard’s name does not appear on the deed; however, it seems as though the house is currently owned by a mysterious trust with direct links to Heard.
In early 2019, the trust quietly acquired a six-acre estate for $570,000. The purchase was made before the coronavirus pandemic sent desert home prices soaring, so it's likely that the property is now worth more than the 2019 number. The land is located near Joshua Tree National Park and has a variety of desert plants and animals.
Located deep in California's San Bernardino County, Yucca Valley is a town of 20,000 people. The nearest "major" destination is Joshua Tree National Park, roughly 10 miles east, though the city is 27 miles north of Palm Springs and 55 miles east of San Bernardino.
With its arid climate and dust-blown streets, Yucca Valley conjures up images of a classic Wild West desert town. However, the town has only been in existence since the early 20th century; it was initially founded as a base camp for workers building a local railroad line.
Despite its unassuming appearance, Yucca Valley has played host to several famous faces. In addition to serving as a filming location for several Hollywood movies, the town has also been home to celebrities like Robert Plant and Jefferson Starship singer Marty Balin. So while it may not be the most bustling metropolis, there is undoubtedly something unique about this little desert town.
Heard’s Yucca Valley estate sits on almost 6 acres, with 3 bedrooms and 3 baths; it also has
2,457 square feet of living space. The home was built in 2015 and boasts an attached 3-car garage, as well as being naturally landscaped, meaning mostly maintenance-free for Heard’s peace of mind — no thirsty non-native landscaping or pesky irrigation systems to complicate things.
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2022-06-06T11:15:00-07:002022-06-06T11:12:58-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19863Out with the Old, Calabasas Road Sidewalk Replacement & General Renovation CommencesThere is a famous saying, old is gold, but in progress, change is required. The construction of sidewalks on Calabasas Road has already commenced last April 4. Earlier this month, a major concrete pour highlighted the project development. This serves as a replacement for the old sidewalks that were starting to wear out on the northern side of Calabasas Road. Fun fact, the new sidewalk will use stamped concrete which LASTS LONGER and will LOOK BETTER.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/unnamed_15.png" width="562" height="420" />
The replacement project has been designed in accordance with the Old Town Calabasas Master Plan and Design Guidelines and is expected to be completed in a span of 6 months. For more detailed information, the project will be phased out into 10 segments to minimize disruption to the community and residents. Generally, construction activity for each segment will include but is not limited to, removal and replacement of the existing furnishings, demolition of existing sidewalks, tree removals, new landscape and/or hardscape, rehabilitation of existing crosswalks, and the installation of stamped concrete sidewalk.
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The construction offers other improvements for people within and passing through Calabasas Road. In addition to the sidewalk replacement, the project scope includes the replacement of existing streetlights with LED-powered lights. A green flag it is, as this will save us dollars from its efficient energy consumption, and long serviceability. Furthermore, existing fencings, signposts, and hitching posts are replaced to give out a fresher and more vivid feel on the roads. Our safety is still the utmost priority.
Crosswalks are to be renovated as well to add new in-pavement lighting to improve visibility and overall
safety on the road. These improvements to Old Town will preserve and enhance the “Old West” look and feel while providing pedestrian improvements. A win-win it is.
A little heads-up, one lane of the Calabasas Road will be closed during construction, so some traffic and potential delays. Currently, the developers are working on the north side and will proceed swiftly to the south side after the north’s completion. Vehicles are generally advised to avoid passing through the area to get to the 101 and use PARKWAY CALABASAS instead.
It’s an understatement that we value our time, and we want to reach our destinations as quickly as possible, but what is a little headache when after a few months’ time, we will reap and enjoy the sturdier and more appealing road. Indeed, patience is a virtue.
Learn more about the project <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JJb7S6iMM_KSVnh8iJZl7bpZGthliWoThJ-lvAiwdDyVYVOy8KsBaqiSx3WKD8_t48JVK759_4SvSWbmWOJhotugizzMdZ95HBSiqYPg4VVWwVskVCyGKlrgrX6S7SzsyPSBnLxFoBI=&c=wFEIoVFPr1kKsiCm-lz59jih9184ukOBViS026gSR4EQal0NH0j2-Q==&ch=GX_STWYoslVIlAYRFCs6VP8eZdjjTM3gZ7s7x7jTtxGaSsMwIlGMIw==">here</a>. 2022-06-06T08:10:00-07:002022-06-06T08:00:35-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19749What Does the Rest of the Year Hold for the Housing Market?If you’re thinking of <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/05/three-tips-for-first-time-homebuyers/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="buying">buying</a> or <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/16/if-youre-a-homeowner-you-have-incredible-leverage-when-you-sell-today/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="selling">selling</a> a house, you’re at an exciting decision point. And anytime you make a big decision like that, one thing you should always consider is timing. So, what does the rest of the year hold for the housing market? Here’s what experts have to say.
The Number of Homes Available for Sale Is Likely To Grow
There are early signs <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/11/are-there-more-homes-coming-to-the-market/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="housing inventory">housing inventory</a> is starting to grow and experts say that should continue in the months ahead. <a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/weekly-housing-trends-view-data-week-apr-23-2022/" target="_blank" title="According">According</a> to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com:
“The gap between this year’s homes for sale and last year’s is one-fifth the size that it was at the beginning of the year. The catch up is likely to continue, . . . This growth will mean more options for shoppers than they’ve had in a while, even though inventory continues to lag pre-pandemic normal.”
As a buyer, having more options is welcome news. Just remember, the housing supply is still low, so be ready to act fast and put in your <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/03/things-that-could-help-you-win-a-bidding-war-on-a-home/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="best offer">best offer</a> upfront.
As a seller, your house may soon face more competition when other sellers list their homes. But the good news is, if you’re also buying your next home, having more options to choose from should make that move-up process easier.
Mortgage Rates Will Likely Continue To Respond to Inflationary Pressures
Experts also agree <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/26/how-homeownership-can-help-shield-you-from-inflation/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="inflation">inflation</a> should continue to drive up mortgage rates, albeit more moderately. Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, <a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/story/the-pandemic-boom-in-home-sales-is-over-mortgage-rates-soar-to-highest-level-since-2009-as-the-fed-pressures-the-housing-market-11651760108" target="_blank" title="says">says</a>:
“… ongoing inflationary pressure remains likely to push mortgage rates even higher in the months to come.”
As a buyer, work with trusted real estate professionals, including your lender, so you can learn how rising mortgage rate environments impact your <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/09/how-todays-mortgage-rates-impact-your-home-purchase/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="purchasing power">purchasing power</a>. It may make sense to buy now before it costs more to do so, if you’re ready.
As a seller, rising <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/17/why-rising-mortgage-rates-push-buyers-off-the-fence/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a> are motivating some homeowners to make a move up sooner rather than later. If you’re planning to buy your next home, talk to a trusted real estate advisor to decide how to time your move.
Home Prices Are Projected To Continue To Climb
<a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/02/todays-home-price-appreciation-is-great-news-for-existing-homeowners/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="Home prices">Home prices</a> are forecast to keep appreciating because there are still fewer homes for sale than there are buyers in the market. That said, experts agree the pace of that appreciation should moderate – but <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/10/will-home-prices-fall-this-year-heres-what-experts-say/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="home prices">home prices</a> won’t fall. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/first-quarter-of-2022-brings-double-digit-price-appreciation-for-70-of-metros" target="_blank" title="explains">explains</a>:
“Prices throughout the country have surged for the better part of two years, including in the first quarter of 2022. . . Given the extremely low inventory, we're unlikely to see price declines, but appreciation should slow in the coming months.”
As a buyer, continued home price appreciation means it’ll cost you more to buy the longer you wait. But it also gives you peace of mind that, once you do buy a home, it will likely grow in value. That makes it historically a good investment and a strong hedge against <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/20/dont-let-rising-inflation-delay-your-homeownership-plans-infographic/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="inflation">inflation</a>.
As a seller, price appreciation is great news for the value of your home. Again, lean on a professional to strike the right balance of the best conditions possible for both selling your house and buying your next one.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re a home buyer or seller, you need to know what’s happening in the housing market, so you can make the most <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/23/work-with-a-real-estate-professional-if-you-want-the-best-advice/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b" target="_blank" title="informed decision">informed decision</a> possible. Let’s connect to discuss your goals and what lies ahead, so you can pick your best time to make a move. Contact us today at <a href="http://www.frontgaterealestate.com/">www.frontgaterealestate.com</a>.2022-05-31T13:05:00-07:002022-05-31T12:15:42-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19634Water Restrictions in California - Information from the Calabasas Town Hall MeetingMany of us in California are very well acquainted with the various drought seasons in California. In fact, many of us would probably agree that it has gone on far too long. The current drought conditions are in their third consecutive year, and recently there have been significant water restrictions placed on Californians.
The City of Calabasas had a Town Hall meeting recently where the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District detailed the reasons behind the current water restrictions and where we stand compared to previous years. While they mentioned California had our driest 3-month stretch between January to March of this year since record-keeping began, we wanted to showcase this graph that they shared for some context.
Historically speaking, 2022’s total precipitation is slightly below average but not quite as low as 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. As you can see from the below graph, we are still within the 30-year average, albeit slightly lower than the 2018-2019 Daily Precipitation rate. In 2016-2017 and 2018-2019, the average yearly precipitation rate was over 70%. Throughout the past few years, the main contributors to the current drought situation are below-average snowpack, record high temperatures, and runoff that did not materialize. As a result, major reservoirs are below average levels, leading to significant impacts on urban, agricultural, and environmental uses.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Front_gate_image_2.jpg" width="1024" height="768" />
On November 2, 2021, the District Board declared a local drought emergency and Stage 3 - Water Shortage Emergency. What does this mean for residents of Calabasas?
It means we are required to significantly reduce the water we are using, both in our houses and to irrigate our lawns. The New Measures that the Board is looking to adopt include
One Day Per Week Irrigation System watering starting June 1, 2022, pending Board adoption on Tuesday, May 17
○ Tuesdays only: Property addresses ending in 0, 2,4,6,8
○ Thursdays only: Property addresses ending in 1,3,5,7,9
No Irrigation of non-functional turf on commercial, industrial and institutional properties using potable water
District’s flushing from hydrants (fire flow tests) and water mains for clearing the lines: Water must be captured and beneficially reused to the greatest extent possible
The below image was taken from the recent Calabasas Town Hall meeting.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Front_gate_image_3.jpg" width="1024" height="768" />
The best thing we can do as a community is to stay informed and reduce our consumption as much as possible. To stay informed, visit <a href="http://www.lvmwd.com/droughtresponse">www.lvmwd.com/droughtresponse</a>. The next thing we need to do is to Take “Control” of your Irrigation Controller with the following steps suggested by the Las Virgenes Water District:
Find the controller
Replace with a new battery if not done w/in the past 6 months
Make sure the date/time is set correctly
Disable/erase existing schedules
Set runtime to either Tuesday or Thursday watering only, depending on your street address
Set each station to no more than 8 minutes each
If Rachio – set to “fixed schedule” for one day, watering 8 minutes maximum. Make sure to disable the existing Flex Daily or Flex Monthly setting.
The full video of the Town Hall presentation can be viewed below.
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rkPZKJ_-IAhwKJLhdBPZqrsm2WjU2o9y/view?usp=sharing">Click here</a> to access the full presentation of slides that include additional information about enforcement and HOA restrictions.
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19bWLBIZvfoZJH72xjLuqdMhWVSNkeOhR/view?usp=sharing">Click here</a> for a full list of questions and answers from the recent Calabasas Town Hall meeting.
Know your Controller
<a href="https://go.rachio.com/lvmwd/">https://go.rachio.com/lvmwd/</a>
<a href="https://flumewater.com/">https://flumewater.com</a>
<a href="https://lvmwd.watersmart.com/index.php/welcome">https://lvmwd.watersmart.com/index.php/welcome</a>2022-05-25T06:34:00-07:002022-05-25T05:54:44-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18042Hidden Hills 2022 Year to Date Real Estate Market SnapshotHidden Hills 2022 Year to Date Market Update
2022-05-23T06:40:00-07:002022-05-23T15:58:59-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19530Protecting your Home Against Fire DangerWe know that the wildfire risk is high again this year amid the current drought and continued impact of climate change. Knowing this, how can we protect ourselves, and our homes? Preparation and prevention are two main points in putting together a personal wildfire action plan. The <a href="https://www.cityofcalabasas.com/home/showpublisheddocument/18615/637576156201970000">Ready! Set! Go!</a> brochure was put together by the Los Angeles City & County Fire Department and is designed to provide you with critical information on creating defensible space around your home, retrofitting your home with fire-resistant materials, and preparing you to safely evacuate well ahead of a wildfire.
One of the first, most important points is to create a defensible space around your property; essentially a buffer between your home and the native landscape. This space slows the spread of wildfire and improves the safety of firefighters defending your home. Defensible space composition varies, depending on vegetation type and topography. Three zones make up the required 200 feet of defensible space.
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/zone_2.JPG" width="466" height="399" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/zone_3.JPG" width="973" height="499" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
A home’s ability to survive a wildfire depends on the materials it is constructed of and the quality of the “defensible space” surrounding it. Defensible space is an area around a structure that has been cleared of flammable materials and landscaped with fire-resistant plants. This area acts as a barrier, slowing the spread of flames and giving firefighters time to save the structure. The size of the defensible space depends on the type of home and its location, but it should extend at least 30 feet from the structure in all directions. In addition to creating a defensible space, homeowners can also safeguard their homes by using fire-resistant materials. These materials, which include stone, stucco, and metal, are less likely to ignite when exposed to sparks or embers. When choosing materials for a new home or remodel, homeowners should consider their fire resistance. By taking these precautions, homeowners can greatly improve their chances of surviving a wildfire.
Elements of a Wildfire Ready Home
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Address 1
Make sure your address is clearly visible from the road.
The address needs to be a contrasting color to the surface that it is mounted on, so it can be seen.
Chimney 2
Cover your chimney and stovepipe outlets with a nonflammable screen of 1/8-inch wire mesh or smaller to prevent embers from escaping and igniting a fire.
Tree branches must be removed within 10 feet of any chimney (exception: oak trees).
Deck/Patio Cover 3
Use heavy timber or non-flammable construction material for decks and patio covers, especially within the first 10 feet of the home.
Enclose the underside of balconies and decks with fire-resistant materials to prevent embers from blowing underneath.
Keep your deck clear of combustible items, such as baskets, dried flower arrangements, and other debris.
Driveways & Access Roads 4
Driveways should be designed to allow fire and emergency vehicles and equipment to reach your home (the current fire code requirement is 15 feet wide).
Access roads should have a minimum 10-foot clearance on either side of the traveled section of the roadway and should allow for two-way traffic.
Locked or electric gates should have a disconnect or a lock box.
Ensure that all gates open inward and are wide enough to accommodate emergency equipment.
Trim trees and shrubs above all roads clear to the sky, with the exception of Oak trees which only need to be cleared to a height of 13½ (or 13.5) feet.
Garage 5
Have a fire extinguisher and tools, such as a shovel, rake, bucket, and hoe, available for fire emergencies.
Install a solid door with self-closing hinges between living areas and the garage. Install weather stripping around and under the doors to prevent ember intrusion.
Store all combustibles and flammable liquids away from ignition sources.
Keep the garage closed whenever possible.
Home Site & Yard 6
Ensure you have up to a 200-foot radius of defensible space (cleared vegetation) around your home. If the 200-foot distance is on adjacent property, contact your local fire station for assistance in obtaining adequate clearance.
Cut dry weeds and grass before noon when temperatures are cooler to reduce the chance of sparking a fire when using metal tools.
Landscape with fire-resistant plants that are low-growing with high-moisture content.
Keep woodpiles, propane tanks, and combustible materials away from your home and other structures, such as garages, barns, and sheds (recommended 30 feet).
Ensure trees and branches are at least four feet away from power lines. Notify your power company if this condition exists; they will complete the required work.
Inside
Keep a working fire extinguisher on hand and train your family how to use it. Store in an easily accessible location (check expiration date regularly).
Install smoke alarms on each level of your home and adjacent to the bedrooms. Test them monthly and change the batteries twice a year.
Non-Combustible Boxed-In (Soffit) Eaves
Box-in eaves with non-combustible materials to prevent the accumulation of embers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/elements_2.JPG" width="477" height="454" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Non-Combustible Fencing 7
Make sure to use non-combustible fencing to protect your home during a wildfire.
Rain Gutters
Screen or enclose rain gutters to prevent the accumulation of plant debris.
Roof 8
Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home because it can easily catch fire from windblown embers.
Homes with wood shake or shingle roofs are at a higher risk of being destroyed during a wildfire.
Build your roof or re-roof with fire-resistant materials that include composition, metal, or tile.
Block any spaces between the roof decking and covering to prevent ember intrusion.
Clear pine needles, leaves, and other debris from your roof and gutters.
Cut any tree branches within 10 feet of your roof.
Vents
Vents on homes are particularly vulnerable to flying embers.
All vent openings should be covered with 1/8-inch or smaller metal mesh. Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh because they can melt and burn.
Attic vents in eaves or cornices should be baffled or otherwise to prevent ember intrusion (mesh is not enough).
Walls 9
Wood products, such as boards, panels, or shingles, are common siding materials. However, they are combustible and not good choices for fire-prone areas.
Build or remodel with fire-resistant building materials, such as brick, cement, masonry, or stucco.
Be sure to extend materials from foundation to roof.
Water Supply 10
Have multiple garden hoses that are long enough to reach any area of your home and other structures on your property.
Windows 11
Heat from a wildfire can cause windows to break even before the home ignites. This allows burning embers to enter and start internal fires. Single-paned and large windows are particularly vulnerable.
Install dual-paned windows with an exterior pane of tempered glass to reduce the chance of breakage in a fire.
Limit the size and number of windows in your home that faces large areas of vegetation.
Utilities
Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are and how to safely shut them down in an emergency.
For more information on the topic and for a step-by-step guide on how to create your own personal wildfire action plan, read the full <a href="https://www.cityofcalabasas.com/home/showpublisheddocument/18615/637576156201970000">Ready! Set! Go! </a> brochure provided by the Los Angeles City & County Fire Department, let’s all do our part and protect the homes and state we love!
2022-05-19T10:24:00-07:002022-05-19T09:43:14-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19389Will Home Prices Fall This Year? Here’s What Experts Say.Many people are wondering: will <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/03/are-home-prices-continuing-to-rise/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">home prices</a> fall this year? Whether you’re a potential <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/25/is-it-enough-to-offer-asking-price-in-todays-housing-market/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">homebuyer</a>, <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/04/your-house-could-be-closer-to-list-ready-than-you-think/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">seller</a>, or both, the answer to this question matters for you. Let’s break down what’s happening with home prices, where experts say they’re headed, and how this impacts your homeownership goals.
What’s Happening with Home Prices?
Home prices have seen <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-slip-2-7-in-march">121 consecutive months</a> of year-over-year increases. CoreLogic <a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/find-stories/corelogic-hpi-posted-record-year-over-year-growth-in-2021/">says</a>:
“Price appreciation averaged 15% for the full year of 2021, up from the 2020 full year average of 6%.”
So why are prices climbing so much? It’s because there are <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/14/on-the-fence-of-whether-or-not-to-move-this-spring-consider-this/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">more buyers</a> than there are homes for sale. This imbalance is expected to maintain that upward pressure on home prices because homes for sale are a hot commodity in today’s low-inventory <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/22/myths-about-todays-housing-market-infographic/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">housing market</a>.
Where Do Experts Say Prices Will Go from Here?
Experts say the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/21/why-this-housing-market-is-not-a-bubble-ready-to-pop/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">housing market</a> isn’t set up for a price decline due to that ongoing imbalance between <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/01/its-still-a-sellers-market-infographic/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">supply and demand</a>. In the latest home price forecasts for 2022, they’re calling for ongoing appreciation throughout the year (see graph below):
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/FG_Blog_infographic.png" width="1000" height="870" />
While the experts are forecasting more moderate price appreciation, the 2022 projections show price gains will remain strong throughout this year. First American <a href="https://blog.firstam.com/economics/it-doesnt-take-much-house-price-appreciation-to-make-owning-a-better-choice-than-renting">explains</a> it like this:
“While house price growth is expected to moderate from the rapid pace of 2021, strong home buyer demand against a backdrop of historically tight inventory of homes for sale will likely keep appreciation positive in the coming year.”
What Does That Mean for You?
The biggest takeaway is that none of the experts are projecting depreciation. If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling, the higher <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/05/02/todays-home-price-appreciation-is-great-news-for-existing-homeowners/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">price appreciation</a> over the last two years has been great for your home’s <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/21/the-average-homeowner-gained-more-than-55k-in-equity-over-the-past-year/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">value</a>, but it’s also something you should factor in when planning your next steps. If you’ll also be buying a home after selling your current house, you shouldn’t wait for prices to fall. Waiting will only cost you more in the long run because climbing <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/20/how-to-approach-rising-mortgage-rates-as-a-buyer/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">mortgage rates</a> and rising <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/04/07/the-future-of-home-price-appreciation-and-what-it-means-for-you/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">home prices</a> will have an impact on your next home purchase. Freddie Mac <a href="https://money.yahoo.com/mortgage-rates-ris-214815105.html">says</a>:
“If you’re thinking about waiting until next year and that maybe rates are higher, but you’ll get a deal on prices – well that’s risky. It may be more advantageous to purchase this year relative to waiting until 2023 at this time.”
Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of selling to move up, you shouldn’t wait for prices to fall. Experts say prices will continue to appreciate this year. That means, if you’re ready, buying your next home before prices climb further may make the most financial sense. Let’s connect to begin the process of selling your current home and looking for your next one before prices rise higher.2022-05-13T11:02:00-07:002022-05-13T10:07:30-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:19052Wildest Celebrity Home FeaturesCelebrities are well-known for their lavish lifestyles, often spending thousands of dollars on cars, travel, and other luxury items. Then, it should come as no surprise that they are also willing to invest large sums of money into their homes. Many celebrities regularly buy and sell huge mansions, penthouses, or chalets across the country, leaving their unique style on these luxurious properties.
One of the most interesting aspects of these celebrity homes is the wild and totally bizarre features that some of them have. Some A-listers have been known to install unique designs or amenities in their homes, such as flat sinks or car elevators. Others have gone a step further, building extravagant wine rooms, ultra-luxurious bowling alleys, or miniature dog mansions for their precious pups.
Whatever the feature may be, it's clear that these celebrities spare no expense in customizing their dream homes. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your home renovation project or simply curious to see some of the wildest features celebrities have built into their properties, take a look at some of the most outrageous celebrity homes!
Let’s look at a few of the wilder features to date!
First up, Michael Jordan's 56,000-square-foot mansion has an infinity pool with a grass island, AND the house has a lavish cigar room.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_MJ_1.JPG" width="643" height="514" />
Michael Jordan's house in Chicago has been on the market for eight years, giving buyers a glimpse into his sprawling estate. The backyard is filled with amenities, including a tennis court and a pond. But most notably, the basketball star has a giant infinity pool with a grass island at the center. A small, modern-looking bridge extends from the edge of the pool to the island.
The house also has an ornate cigar room with an elaborate ceiling design and handrails. The room also has card tables, where Jordan most likely exercises his love of gambling. Although the asking price for the house has been reduced several times, it remains one of the most expensive properties on the market.
Second, let’s talk about Drake’s mattress… made of stingray skin and horsehair, it sells for nearly $400,000!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_Drake_2.JPG" width="643" height="526" />
When it comes to luxurious comfort, few things can match the Grand Vividus mattress from Hastens and Ferris Rafauli. This premium mattress is truly unlike any other made from a unique blend of leather, wood, suede, brass, horsehair, stingray skin, polyester, and handwoven textiles. And with over 600 hours of meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each mattress, it's no wonder that the Grand Vividus costs a whopping $390,000.
Whether you're looking for a decadent addition to your bedroom or just want to treat yourself to some unrivaled comfort and style, the Grand Vividus is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Treat yourself today!
Kylie Jenner has a mini-mansion in her backyard that acts as a playhouse for her daughter.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_Stormi_3.JPG" width="648" height="518" />
For Christmas 2019, Kris Jenner gave Kylie Jenner's daughter, Stormi, a playhouse. But this is no ordinary playhouse - it's life-size and has appliances, a balcony, an outdoor patio, a functioning air-conditioning unit, and a fake fireplace.
Kris and Kylie revealed the new digs in a YouTube video, where Kylie said the mini-mansion reminds her of the playhouse she had growing up. The two even took a tour of the home, pointing out some features like the chandelier in the foyer and the working stove in the kitchen. No expense was spared in making this dream playhouse a reality for Stormi. And judging by the look on her face when she saw it for the first time, it was worth every penny.
Nicole Kidman's apartment in New York City has an elevator for her car, and we think it’s brilliant.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_Nicole_4.JPG" width="642" height="542" />
Looking for a luxurious and unique apartment in New York City? Look no further than Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's Chelsea apartment. This 3,248 square foot apartment has three bedrooms, 23-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and two terraces. But the most notable feature of this home is the car elevator.
The elevator brings Kidman and Urban's cars straight from the street to the apartment door, making it easy to come and go without dealing with New York City traffic.
DJ Khaled's Miami mansion has a closet built to fit 500 pairs of sneakers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_DJ_Khaled_5.JPG" width="645" height="520" />
When DJ Khaled decided to renovate his Miami home, he spared no expense. The luxurious mansion features 14K gold chandeliers, a private movie theater, and a stunning granite staircase. But perhaps the most desirable feature of Khaled's home is his elaborate sneaker closet, which can house 500 pairs of shoes. This massive storage space has all the amenities you would expect from a luxury closet, including custom shelves and a rolling library ladder, making it easy to reach even the most obscure pairs.
With its top-of-the-line features and ample space for sneakers of all types and styles, Khaled's sneaker closet truly is out of this world. There is no competition for this incredible storage solution, whether you're into retro Jordans or high-tech Nikes.
Oprah's ski chalet in Colorado has a wine room that resembles a mining cave.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_Oprah_6.JPG" width="641" height="526" />
She spared no expense when Oprah decided to buy a ski chalet in Telluride, Colorado. The house is not only 8,700 square feet in size but is also packed with some truly incredible features. The highlights are a $70,000 limestone bathtub, a private spa, and an outdoor hot tub. However, what truly sets this ski lodge apart is its wine cave. This cavernous basement is 56 feet long and can store up to 1,600 bottles of wine.
Even more impressive is that it features a custom-made mining cart that runs along rails―an extravagance that cost $240,000 to install. With all these incredible features, it's no wonder that Oprah's ski chalet continues to be one of the most sought-after properties in Telluride today.
Not to be outdone, Jennifer Lopez's house has its own private vineyard.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_JLo_7.JPG" width="643" height="520" />
Jennifer Lopez's new home in Bel Air is nothing short of incredible. The estate spans 14,000 square feet and includes seven bedrooms and 13 bathrooms. But that's just the beginning. The property also features a 30-person home theatre, a theater, a greenhouse, a swimming pond, a private beach, and a massage room. And if that wasn't enough, the estate even has its own vineyard. It's no wonder that Lopez paid $28 million for this luxurious property. With so many incredible amenities, it's the perfect place for entertaining friends and family.
Step aside SkyZone, Bill Gates' $127 million mansion has a trampoline room.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Blog_Bill_Gates_8.JPG" width="642" height="518" />
Xanadu 2.0, Bill Gates' sprawling mansion in Medina, Washington, is truly a sight to behold. Boasting 18.75 bathrooms, six fully-equipped kitchens, and a home theater with 20-foot high ceilings, this palatial estate has all the amenities and features you could ever wish for.
And that's just the beginning - Xanadu 2.0 also has a beautiful outdoor pool with an underwater music system that can be enjoyed while relaxing on one of its many decks or loungers. Plus, there's a massive trampoline room located in the estate's 2,500-square-foot fitness center - perfect for working out or just having a little fun! Truly a dream home for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life.
A mansion fit for a… dog. Paris Hilton spent over $300,000 to build a separate mansion for her dogs.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frongtgate_Blog_Paris_Hilton_9.JPG" width="645" height="517" />
While dog houses are common in most backyards, Paris Hilton took hers a step further. In the backyard of her Los Angeles mansion, she has a smaller mansion next to her pool for her five dogs. The smaller mansion is two floors and has a second-floor balcony. The Spanish-style dog house cost the social media and reality star $325,000. The 5,000-square-foot property includes air conditioning, heating, and a PA system so that Hilton can talk to her pups from inside the main house. There's also a security system to keep intruders out and a chandelier in the foyer. Outside, there's a grassy area for the dogs to play in and a heated pool. Needless to say, Hilton's dogs live a life of luxury.
Celine Dion once had a private water park on her estate.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/frontgate_celine_dion_10.JPG" width="881" height="695" />
When it comes to opulent, over-the-top homes, nobody does it better than the rich and famous. And perhaps no home embodies this spirit quite like the massive mansion once owned by Celine Dion. This 20,000-square-foot home, situated on the exclusive Jupiter Island in Florida, was not your average luxury home. With 13 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, and all of the latest amenities — including a golf simulator, tennis court, and guest house — this grand estate had everything that one could dream of.
But what really made this home truly unique was its incredible backyard water park. With its two pools, water slides, water cannons, and lazy river built right into the lush green landscape of the lawns and gardens behind the house, this feature was unlike anything ever seen before. When it sold in 2017 for an astonishing $38.5 million after being on the market for four years, it seemed clear that this extravagant property would be a tough act to follow. Truly a masterpiece from start to finish!
2022-04-28T10:41:00-07:002022-04-28T13:27:07-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18984Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing Broke Ground Friday, April 22, 2022.The long-awaited Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing officially broke ground Friday, April 22, 2022, causing several road closures in Agoura Hills.
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing is a planned vegetated overpass spanning the Ventura Freeway and Agoura Road at Liberty Canyon. The bridge will be one of the most significant urban wildlife crossings in the United States, connecting the Simi Hills and the Santa Monica Mountains over a busy freeway with ten traffic lanes, including exit lanes.
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing promises to be one of the most innovative wildlife crossings in the world. The project itself has been in development for almost a decade, and we are just now starting construction, a full three years before they originally planned to.
The Santa Monica Mountains is an essential home for native wildlife, but the Ventura Freeway has become one of their barriers. These mountain lions cannot easily cross into southern California's Simi Hills because the freeway acts as a barrier between them and other areas, reducing numbers significantly. According to National Park Service records, 12 have been struck dead by vehicles on these sections since 2002, when they started studying animal collisions with cars. The Santa Monica Mountains have been a genetic isolate for many years because there is not enough diversity in their population. This means that if nothing changes, all possible options will be exhausted, leading us toward the extinction of these mountain lions and other wildlife in the area. Newcomers would bring new genetic material into this area where the lack of variation poses severe threats to long-term survival.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Wildlife_Impact_updated_size.jpg" width="2508" height="1672" />
Scientists have identified the best location for a wildlife crossing along Liberty Canyon because it is situated within one of California's largest national parks. The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area includes publicly owned and protected acres, making this spot ideal for establishing connectivity between two large suburban areas with growing populations: Los Angeles County and Ventura county.
The County of Ventura has adopted a new wildlife corridor protection ordinance that will restrict certain activities to help prevent obstruction along the path connecting Santa Monica Mountains with Los Padres National Forest. This is an important step forward for species preservation and connectivity on our highways!
While the project is highly anticipated, it will cause traffic obstructions in Agoura Hills beginning Friday, April 22, 2022.
*** Images from Living Habitats/National Wildlife Federation.2022-04-25T08:27:00-07:002022-04-28T09:40:27-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18961Why This Housing Market Is Not a Bubble Ready To PopHomeownership has become a major element in achieving the American Dream. A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) finds that over <a href="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2022-obstacles-to-home-buying-04-12-2022.pdf">86%</a> of buyers agree homeownership is still the American Dream.
Before the 1950s, less than <a href="https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial/tables/time-series/coh-owner/owner-tab.txt">half of the country</a> owned their own home. However, after World War II, many returning veterans used the benefits afforded by the <a href="https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/">GI Bill</a> to purchase a home. Since then, the percentage of homeowners throughout the country has increased to the current rate of <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/RHORUSQ156N">65.5%</a>. That strong desire for homeownership has kept home values appreciating ever since. The graph below tracks <a href="http://www.econ.yale.edu/~shiller/data.htm">home price appreciation</a> since the end of World War II:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/kcm-infographic-1650641026.png" width="1000" height="870" />
The graph shows the only time home values dropped significantly was during the housing boom and bust of 2006-2008. If you look at how prices spiked prior to 2006, it looks a bit like the current spike in prices over the past two years. That may lead some people to be concerned we’re about to see a similar fall in home values as we did when the bubble burst. To help alleviate those worries, let’s look at what happened last time and what’s happening today.
What Caused the Housing Crash 15 Years Ago?
Back in 2006, foreclosures flooded the market. That drove down home values dramatically. The two main reasons for the flood of foreclosures were:
Many purchasers were not truly qualified for the mortgage they obtained, which led to more homes turning into foreclosures.
A number of homeowners cashed in the equity on their homes. When prices dropped, they found themselves in an underwater situation (where the home was worth less than the mortgage on the house). Many of these homeowners walked away from their homes, leading to more foreclosures. This lowered neighboring home values even more.
This cycle continued for years.
Why Today’s Real Estate Market Is Different
Here are two reasons today’s market is nothing like the one we experienced 15 years ago.
1. Today, Demand for Homeownership Is Real (Not Artificially Generated)
Running up to 2006, banks were creating artificial demand by lowering lending standards and making it easy for just about anyone to qualify for a home loan or refinance their current home. Today, purchasers and those refinancing a home face much higher standards from mortgage companies.
Data from the Urban Institute shows <a href="https://www.urban.org/policy-centers/housing-finance-policy-center/projects/housing-credit-availability-index" title="the amount of risk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the amount of risk</a> banks were willing to take on then as compared to now.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/kcm-infographic-1650641201.png" width="1000" height="870" />
There’s always risk when a bank loans money. However, leading up to the housing crash 15 years ago, lending institutions took on much greater risks in both the person and the mortgage product offered. That led to mass defaults, foreclosures, and falling prices.
Today, the demand for homeownership is real. It’s generated by a re-evaluation of the importance of home due to a worldwide pandemic. Additionally, lending standards are much stricter in the current lending environment. Purchasers can afford the mortgage they’re taking on, so there’s little concern about possible defaults.
And if you’re worried about the number of people still in <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2022/01/06/there-wont-be-a-wave-of-foreclosures-in-the-housing-market/" title="forbearance">forbearance</a>, you should know there’s no risk of that causing an upheaval in the housing market today. There won’t be a flood of foreclosures.
2. People Are Not Using Their Homes as ATMs Like They Did in the Early 2000s
As mentioned above, when prices were rapidly escalating in the early 2000s, many thought it would never end. They started to borrow against the equity in their homes to finance new cars, boats, and vacations. When prices started to fall, many of these homeowners were underwater, leading some to abandon their homes. This increased the number of foreclosures.
Homeowners didn’t forget the lessons of the crash as prices skyrocketed over the last few years. Black Knight reports that tappable equity (the amount of equity available for homeowners to access before hitting a maximum 80% loan-to-value ratio, or LTV) has <a href="https://www.blackknightinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/BKI_MM_Dec2021_Report.pdf" title="more than doubled" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">more than doubled</a> compared to 2006 ($4.6 trillion to $9.9 trillion).
The latest <a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/homeowner-equity-insights/" title="Homeowner Equity Insights" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Homeowner Equity Insights</a> report from CoreLogic reveals that the average homeowner gained $55,300 in home equity over the past year alone. Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, <a href="https://twitter.com/odetakushi/status/1508926031381553164" title="reports" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">reports</a>:
“Homeowners in Q4 2021 had an average of $307,000 in equity – a historic high.”
ATTOM Data Services also reveals that <a href="https://www.attomdata.com/news/market-trends/home-sales-prices/attom-q4-2021-u-s-home-equity-and-underwater-report/" title="41.9%" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">41.9%</a> of all mortgaged homes have at least 50% equity. These homeowners will not face an underwater situation even if prices dip slightly. Today, homeowners are much more cautious.
2022-04-22T09:01:00-07:002022-04-22T08:42:42-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18817Global Megastar Drake Closes on $75 Million Beverly Hills HomeOver the last couple of weeks, property records have finally confirmed a long-rumored multi-million dollar mega mansion transaction in Beverly Hills – British pop star Robbie Williams has sold his amazing property in the mountains to Canadian rap icon Drake.
The property, set on an incredible 20-acre lot, was originally on the market for $85 million before closing for $75 million. No need to worry about Mr. Williams taking a hit though, he more than doubled his 2015 purchase price of $32.5 million, and even with the rumored high-end makeover, that is still a nice profit for the hitmaker over a seven-year period.
Making an entrance
The property is set at the end of a long, winding driveway, ensuring the utmost privacy. This leads past the guest house to the massive garage and parking area, and the impressive main building itself.
Inside the property
The 20-acre premises is one of the largest private estates in Los Angeles, although it is worth bearing in mind that its position high in the hills means that only around half of that acreage is flat enough for building or everyday use purposes. Originally built in 2001 from designs made by the prestigious KAA Design Group, there are around 24,000 square feet of interior living space over two levels.
That living space is naturally luxury – there are 7 spacious bedrooms, 15 contemporary bathrooms, and enough kitchen, dining, and lounging areas for Drake to throw lavish late-night after-parties, intimate dinners, and anything in between. The home also boasts a fully-equipped private gym, games room, wine cellar facilities, and a library and cinema.
The staff wing (of course there is a staff wing) has three en suite bedrooms and a separate kitchen, making it perfect for either a team of domestic help or long-term guests.
On the outside
Of course, this is 90210, so we are not just talking about a high-end indoor area. The outside is fit for a (rap) king – manicured gardens, outdoor kitchen and dining areas, pool, tennis court: in short, anything a superstar could want. The views are exactly what you would expect in this location and at this price point: the mountains form the perfect backdrop to the home, at the front Drake and his guests will be able to see the canyon and the city beyond from almost anywhere on the property.
Moving on
Drake adds the home to his portfolio of high-end properties, which includes an even bigger mansion in Toronto. Robbie Williams, on the other hand, is expected to move to a rental mansion in the prestigious Beverly Park estate, presumably before moving on to his next ‘project’ home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Drake_2.JPG" width="768" height="515" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Drake_3.JPG" width="766" height="480" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Drake_5.JPG" width="768" height="428" />2022-04-13T14:51:00-07:002022-04-13T13:59:10-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18638Exclusive Paper Shred Event by Frontgate Real Estate in Hidden Hills, CAExclusive Paper Shred Event by Frontgate Real Estate in Hidden Hills, CA
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/PAPER_SHREDDING_EVENT.jpg" width="2240" height="1260" />
Frontgate Real Estate will be hosting another exclusive paper shredding event for our clients at our Hidden Hills office from 3 pm to 6 pm on Thursday, April 28th, 2022.
HOW TO PREPARE
Drop Off Limit
Suggested limit of 10 bankers boxes per drop off
Acceptable Items
Paper items ONLY
File folders
Paper clips, fasteners, binder clips, and staples
Non-acceptable Items
Non-paper items
No 3-ring metal binders
No large metal items
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT
Please anticipate potential wait times as Paper Cuts Inc. will assist in offloading for immediate shredding.
Drop-off only bins will be available with no wait times. <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/blog/frontgate-real-estate-hosts-successful-paper-shred-event-in-hidden-hills/">Check out images from last year’s shredding event here</a>.
GO GREEN FOR TAX SEASON
In celebration of Earth Day and as tax season comes to a close, the Frontgate Real Estate team will be providing an exclusive paper shredding truck for all of our beloved clients and guests to offload any of their paper items at no cost. We know tax season is one of the most stressful and paper-intensive times of the year, leaving us with mounds of unneeded tax documents. Save time (and the planet!) and let Frontgate Real Estate take care of this for you.
SAFE AND SECURE AT NO CHARGE
The exclusivity and standard of privacy is paramount within Hidden Hills and its surrounding communities. Frontgate Real Estate upholds that standard and understands the value in the proper disposal of confidential paperwork and unwanted documents. That is why Dana Olmes, Jeff Biebuyck, and the Frontgate team will partner with Paper Cuts, Inc. to supply a large truck to offload any paper items at no cost!
Our exclusive guests have the opportunity to watch their documents get shredded in person by our trusted paper shredding driver or simply drop off their paper right in front of our Hidden Hills office.
TAX FILING REMINDERS
Now that your tax returns are filed, and you have cleared out old files, we wanted to share some helpful tax reminders leading up to the Frontgate Shred Event.
One Year
While you file your taxes, use this time to compare pay stubs over the past year to your W-2s. You should also compare monthly brokerage statements to your 1099s to ensure they are lined up. Once the return is submitted, throw those stubs and statements into a bankers box and bring them to the Frontgate Shred Event.
Three Years
After filing, now it’s time to go back 3 years to shred the following:
Old tax return forms
W-2s
1099s
K-1s
Canceled checks
Receipts for charitable contributions
Six Years
This is not recommended, but if you happen to file your tax return and fail to report more than 25% of your gross income, you’re better off keeping those at home and wait to shred any W-2s, 1099s, and other tax forms for 6 years should there be an IRS audit.
Seven Years
After 7 years, shred old tax records for closed retirement accounts (like IRAs) and losses from worthless securities or bad debt deductions.
2022-04-04T11:23:00-07:002022-04-04T11:42:22-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18587A New Way to Live: Luxury Shipping Container HomesAre you tired of living in your traditional home or tiny apartment? Would you rather live in a spacious, luxurious, unique home with a beautiful view?
They're called "Shipping Container Homes," and it's the future of housing. But, wouldn’t you know it? They’re already here.
Once I tell you how to get yourself a shipping container home, you won't want to go back to living in a cramped apartment or boring traditional house ever again. You'll also learn why shipping container homes are the perfect solution for anyone who wants to live in a luxurious, unique environment.
What are luxury shipping container homes?
Most people associate shipping containers with cheap storage units or how packages get shipped overseas. But, if you're willing to spend a little extra money, you can build your home from a shipping container. These homes are called luxury shipping container homes, and they offer a blend of uniqueness, style, and affordability that makes people fall in love.
They build these <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/blog/alternative-living-spaces">alternate living spaces</a> in various sizes, ranging from small studio apartments to large family houses. The size of the home depends on the amount of space inside the shipping container. These homes include living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and other amenities.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/sc_blog_1.JPG" width="589" height="396" />
What are the benefits of these homes?
There are several benefits to building a luxury shipping container home. For starters, shipping containers are incredibly durable. They can withstand extreme weather and are ideal for any climate. In addition, they're very versatile—you can customize these homes to suit your needs and lifestyle. For example, you can easily add a pool, deck, or outdoor kitchen to give your home the perfect vibe. And finally, they're affordable. Shipping containers cost less than traditional buildings, making them an attractive option for anyone who wants to save money while still having a nice place to live.
Shipping container homes are often <a href="http://ecotalk.org/the-environmental-benefits-of-a-shipping-container-home/">environmentally friendly</a>. They require less energy to heat and cool than traditional homes and are typically constructed from recycled materials. In addition, they're much easier to maintain than conventional homes.
What are some drawbacks of shipping container homes?
1. Shipping containers aren't always environmentally friendly.
Some people say that converting used containers into homes is a great way to recycle them, but others don't want to do that. Used shipping containers are often more eco-friendly than new ones. However, used containers can be damaged while transporting goods or may have a history of transporting hazardous materials. Some of these factors make repurposed containers less ideal than others for some potential container homeowners.
2. Getting permits can be challenging.
It isn’t easy to get building permits for a shipping container house in some locations. However, there are several locations in the U.S. where shipping container houses can be used. Contact your local city planning office to get more information about building codes and zoning regulations regarding container housing.
3. These homes may need structural reinforcements.
Steel storage containers are durable but can be modified to create a less sturdy container. For example, if you cut holes for doors or large windows. <br /><br />Shipping containers can withstand most weather situations, but it’s recommended to have your home inspected by an expert to make sure it can withstand the weather ‌in your area or if it needs further structural reinforcement.
4. Modern appliances can be complicated.
Unless you plan to be completely self-reliant, you'll need to find a reliable electrician familiar with shipping container architecture to create and install custom electrical setups. You'll also need to hire a contractor to install plumbing. Finally, if your location doesn't have electricity access, you might need to hire a contractor who can install alternative energy sources.
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How versatile can these homes be?
Shipping containers are versatile, durable, and more affordable than a traditional home. These qualities are perfect for building a unique home that will make all your friends jealous. However, many people aren't aware of just how much potential shipping container homes offer and how luxurious they can be.
While they build kitchens into traditional houses, they are also easy to create in shipping container homes. Like a conventional kitchen, you can customize your kitchen in many ways. If you can dream it, you can have it built into your container home. <br /><br />Using a design app to find a contractor will make the process easier. Workers and homeowners have a clear picture of how much a project will cost and take. So many remodelers get their leads by signing up with directories like <a href="https://www.houzz.com/for-pros/software-kitchen-bath-remodeler-leads">Houzz Pro</a>. This process makes it easy for contractors and homeowners to find each other through a trusted middle party.
Other amenities in shipping containers include bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, offices, garages, and even a pool. These homes can be customized to meet the needs of any family.
For example, a family with young children might choose to build a bedroom and bathroom inside the shipping container. Meanwhile, a hardworking couple who wants to retire early could opt to construct a massive office space and <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/blog/luxury-on-the-edge-epic-infinity-pools-around-the-world">a pool</a> or deck with a fire pit to relax after work.
Regardless of the specific design, shipping containers provide endless possibilities for homeowners.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/sc_blog_3.JPG" width="582" height="388" />
Where will you live in your shipping container home?
Shipping container homes are becoming increasingly popular as more people look to build their own unique dream homes. However, many people wonder where they will live in these homes. While shipping containers are not typical living spaces, they can still provide room for the entire family.
Some shipping container homes are in urban areas where land is scarce. As a result, these homes are smaller than traditional houses. But if you're interested in creating a larger shipping container home, you might move somewhere rural. Besides providing ample space outside for a large family, rural areas typically offer beautiful scenery and less noise pollution.
Of course, whether you choose to move to a city or the country depends on your preferences. Some people prefer the hustle and bustle of big cities, while others enjoy the quiet solitude of the countryside. Either way, shipping container homes are a viable option for anyone who wants to build their own dream house.
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Can real estate investors make money with shipping container homes?
Real estate investors love shipping containers because they're flexible and easy to build. But can they make money with these structures? In short, yes.
Shipping containers are perfect for real estate investors who want to create income properties without putting down a large amount of cash. They usually build these homes from used shipping containers, which are inexpensive to purchase and easy to move.
Investors save money instead of hiring home builders to build a traditional house. Then, once the shipping container home is complete, they can rent it out to tenants or flip it for a profit.
Travelers using vacation websites are looking for unique experiences. For example, many investors enjoy profits generated by renting their luxury shipping container homes online through these services.
Here are a few examples of luxury shipping container homes being rented online:
<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/36724210">Joshua Tree Desert Dream Shipping Container Suite</a>
<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/51176144">Shipping Container Home With Pool</a>
<a href="https://www.vrbo.com/1387432">Envase Casa Container House</a>
<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/49574852">Shipping Containers w/ Ocean Views and Country Air</a>
Try before you buy or build. Are you on the fence about buying or building a luxury container home? Then, use nightly rental services to try one out for a weekend (or longer) with your spouse or friends. You'll find out if it's a suitable investment for you, and if it's not, at least you got a vacation out of it.
Summary
In conclusion, we hope you enjoyed reading our article on luxury shipping home containers. We've tried to cover everything you need to know about these shipping containers. They're durable, versatile, eco-friendly, and can be an investment. However, they come with drawbacks, such as getting proper permits. If you can get through those hurdles, living in a shipping container home allows you to customize your space however you want, making it perfect for anyone who wants to create a unique luxury lifestyle.2022-03-31T13:09:00-07:002022-03-31T13:13:06-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18555Get Ahead of the Competition: Join Our VIP Coming Soon Program.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/coming-soon-listings/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Copy_of_COMING_SOON_-_Play.jpg" width="2240" height="1260" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
You're online shopping for a home through sites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com, and there it is! You just found your dream home! You call to arrange a visit only to learn the home already has multiple offers or it's already sold, and to make matters worse, you've been connected to a real estate agent who has no idea about the house and the area.
Do you feel like you're always the last to hear about new listings?
How do you beat out the other buyers in such a competitive market?
We'd like to cordially invite you to our brand-new<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/coming-soon-listings/"> VIP Coming Soon Program</a>, which is 100% free to join. Let us inform you immediately about homes that are coming soon before competing buyers even have a chance to see them.
This is how. Real Estate agents have the option to promote their listings as COMING SOON as they are being prepared to go on the market. Only real estate agents connected to the MLS or Multiple Listing Service) will see these listings and most of these homes are not shared to 3rd party websites like the ones you have most likely been searching through.
However, we can share this info with you as part of our VIP Coming Soon Program. Find out about the hottest properties in the neighborhoods that you’re interested in before they are shared publicly.
So, what’s the wait?
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/coming-soon-listings/">Sign up for our COMING SOON Program </a>now, and don’t miss out on your dream home again.2022-03-29T15:39:00-07:002022-04-05T06:43:34-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18501What You Can Expect from the Spring Housing MarketAs the spring housing market kicks off, you likely want to know what you can expect this season when it comes to <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/16/are-you-wondering-if-this-is-the-year-to-buy-a-home/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">buying</a> or <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/14/this-spring-presents-sellers-with-a-golden-opportunity/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">selling</a> a house. While there are multiple factors causing some uncertainty, including the conflict overseas, rising <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/01/11/why-inflation-shouldnt-stop-you-from-buying-a-home-in-2022/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">inflation</a>, and the first rate increase from the Federal Reserve in <a href="https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/federal-reserve-meeting-inflation-march-2022">over three years</a> — the housing market seems to be relatively immune.
Here’s a look at what experts say you can expect this spring.
1. Mortgage Rates Will Climb
Freddie Mac <a href="https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/node/24936/pdf">reports</a> the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has increased by more than a full point in the past six months. And despite some mild <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/08/how-global-uncertainty-is-impacting-mortgage-rates/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">fluctuation</a> in recent weeks, experts believe rates will continue to edge up over the next 90 days. As Freddie Mac <a href="https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/node/25001/pdf">says</a>:
“The Federal Reserve raising short-term rates and signaling further increases means mortgage rates should continue to rise over the course of the year.”
If you’re a first-time buyer or a seller thinking of moving to a home that better fits your needs, realize that waiting will likely mean you’ll pay a higher mortgage rate on your purchase. And that higher rate drives up your monthly payment and can really add up over the life of your loan.
2. Housing Inventory Will Increase
There may be some relief coming for buyers searching for a home to purchase. <a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/data/">Realtor.com</a> recently reported that the number of <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/17/did-your-dream-home-just-come-on-the-market/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">newly listed homes</a> has grown for each of the last two months. Also, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) just announced the <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-fade-7-2-in-february">months’ supply</a> of inventory increased for the first time in <a href="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/ehs-02-2022-overview-2022-03-18.pdf">eight months</a>. The inventory of existing homes usually grows every spring, and it seems, based on recent activity, the next 90 days could bring more listings to the market.
If you’re a buyer who has been frustrated with the limited supply of homes available for sale, it looks like you could find some relief this spring. However, be prepared to act quickly if you find the right home.
If you’re a seller, listing now instead of waiting for this additional competition to hit the market makes sense. Your leverage in any negotiation during the sale will be impacted as additional homes come to market.
3. Home Prices Will Rise
Prices are always determined by supply and demand. Though the number of homes entering the market is increasing, <a href="https://www.showingtime.com/blog/january-2022-showing-index-results">buyer demand</a> remains very strong. As realtor.com explains in their most recent <a href="https://news.move.com/2022-03-03-Realtor-com-R-February-Housing-Report-Home-Prices-Hit-All-Time-High-Ahead-of-Spring-Buying-Season">Housing Report</a>:
“During the final two weeks of the month, more new sellers entered the market than during the same time last year. . . . However, with 5.8 million new homes missing from the market and millions of millennials at first-time buying ages, housing supply faces a long road to catching up with demand.”
What does that mean for you? With the demand for housing still outpacing supply, <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/03/03/are-home-prices-continuing-to-rise/?a=866724-95428b2d45bb5cf90b8e480dd06c3b2b">home prices</a> will continue to appreciate. Many experts believe the level of appreciation will decelerate from the high double-digit levels we’ve seen over the last two years. That means prices will continue to climb, just at a more moderate pace. Most experts are predicting home prices will not depreciate.
Won’t Increasing Mortgage Rates Cause Home Prices To Fall?
While some people may believe a 1% increase in mortgage rates will impact demand so dramatically that home prices will have to fall, experts say otherwise. Doug Duncan, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist at Fannie Mae, <a href="https://themreport.com/daily-dose/03-09-2022/expert-insights-inventory-levels-fed-rates-more">says</a>:
“What I will caution against is making the inference that interest rates have a direct impact on house prices. That is not true.”
Freddie Mac studied the impact that mortgage rates increasing by at least 1% has had on home prices in the past. Here are the results of <a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/research/insight/20180223_increasing_mortgage_rates.page">that study</a>:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/chart_for_frontgate_blog.JPG" width="629" height="472" />
As the chart shows, mortgage rates jumped by at least 1% six times in the last thirty years. In each case, home values increased.
So again, if you’re a first-time buyer or a repeat buyer, waiting to buy likely means you’ll pay more for a home later in the year (as compared to its current value).
Bottom Line
There are three things that seem certain going into the spring housing market:
Mortgage rates will continue to rise
The selection of homes available for sale will modestly improve.
Home prices will continue to appreciate, just at a slightly slower pace
If you’re thinking of buying, act now before mortgage rates and home prices increase further. If you’re thinking of selling, your best bet may be to sell soon so you can beat the increase in competition that’s about to come to market. <a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/">Contact Frontgate Real Estate today to get the process started! </a>2022-03-28T08:01:00-07:002022-03-28T07:11:04-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18470Two Years Later: Reese Witherspoon’s Renovated Los Angeles Estate is Back Up for Sale.Two years after Reese Witherspoon's purchase and renovation of her Los Angeles estate, the property is back up for sale.
Witherspoon and her husband Jim Toth have put the house on the market for a cool $25 million. This gorgeous renovated home is located in Brentwood's Mandeville Canyon and spans over 7 acres.
It appears as though the house is still under wraps, so to speak, as there are only a few photos of the interior and exterior. However, interested buyers can access the full gallery - as long as they qualify. It appears as though the Witherspoon-Toths are gauging interest while striving to keep a modicum of privacy during the initial stages.
While we don't have access to the entire image library, we can certainly share some of the finer details of this one-of-a-kind property. This estate is perfect for anyone who craves residential privacy and seclusion as it sits on a private lane off the main Mandeville Canyon road. Additionally, the property is gated at the end of a long, winding drive surrounded by older trees that add to the feeling of being tucked away in a country estate.
The house was constructed in the early 1990s and inspired by the English estates across the pond. Over the last two years, the Witherspoon-Toth's have made a series of contemporary updates to the property, adding to its allure and value. Those updates, along with rising property values during this time, are pointing to a significant return on investment from the original purchase price of nearly $16 million that she paid.
Comparing the pictures of the 2020 home with the ones we can see today, the renovations included painting the exterior a rich white; the foyer floors are gleaming marble. They also upgraded the wrought iron railing of the grand staircase wooden stairs. The living room was repainted, and the floors were also replaced, giving the room a bright and airy feel. The kitchen, everyone's favorite room to gather, was redone, and the appliances were upgraded, and let's not forget the library that is now a luxurious blue.
The property is 10,343 square feet, with 7 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms. It sits on 3.1 acres of heavily wooded land with a rolling lawn and a beautiful outdoor entertainment area with a swimming pool, spa, outdoor bar, and barbeque.
Witherspoon and Toth are said to be testing the market with the property and may or may not sell it. They are also said to be looking for a new home in Los Angeles.
If you're in the market for a remodeled private estate, this one is worth considering! However, <a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/" target="_blank">check out our recently listed properties </a>if you're looking for something else.
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Reese_3.JPG" width="762" height="465" />
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Reese_5.JPG" width="763" height="491" />2022-03-25T08:01:00-07:002022-03-25T07:36:11-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18371Rising Oil Prices, Inflation Concerns Could Impact US Housing MarketIt’s no wonder that people are feeling increasingly financially insecure with warning signs of inflation, gas prices spiking, and the war in Ukraine causing many more problems for consumers.
Many Americans feel the pinch at the pump as the price of oil continues to surge. This is causing inflation concerns as prices for goods and services continue to increase. Some economists predict that this could lead to a slowdown in the US housing market, and data suggests this theory is supported.
The overwhelming uncertainty over what’s coming next has already led to turbulence in the stock market and investment portfolios. Moreover, it can potentially impact the super-overheated US housing market in a powerful and lasting way. This blog post will look at how rising oil prices and inflation concerns could impact the US housing market.
Rising oil prices impact both sides of the housing market - the supply and demand sides. On the supply side, rising oil prices lead to a rise in the cost of construction and raw materials. This makes building new houses and communities near impossible without incurring high costs and increased production time. On the demand side, many consumers are protecting their bank accounts to the best of their ability. In addition, the fear of the unknown has settled in. As a result, many are apprehensive about making large purchases amidst global turmoil, and as the price of gas continues to climb, commuting and transportation costs are impacted.
High oil prices and worry over inflation could spell trouble for the housing market, as higher borrowing costs may lead to a slowdown in price growth or even a decrease in home values. In addition, the ongoing conflict has caused investors to pull money out of emerging markets like Russia and Ukraine, which has resulted in weakened currencies and instability in those countries. That instability spills over into other economies worldwide, including the US, as investors become risk-averse.
So, what does all of this mean for the housing market? It’s still too early to tell, but we’ll likely see more volatility in prices over the next few months and years. If the price of oil continues to rise and the war in Ukraine worsens, we could see a significant slowdown or a fall in home prices. However, if things calm down and the economy rebound, prices could begin climbing faster than we’ve seen in recent years.
Regardless of what happens, the housing market is just a small part of the larger economy. So, while current conditions may cause concern, it’s essential to keep things in perspective. The US economy is still strong, and many factors could offset any potential slowdown in the housing market. So, while we could see some turbulence in the months and years ahead, there’s no need to panic—yet.
Are you thinking about selling your home or purchasing your next one? <a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/">Visit our website today! </a>2022-03-18T14:23:00-07:002022-03-18T13:44:41-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18234Real Estate: The Best Way to Protect Against InflationMany of us can agree that the headlines these days are cause for concern, especially regarding inflation. Our economic situation is volatile, and the future is uncertain, especially ahead of whether or not interest rates are raised. But what’s the real story? Why is inflation such a concern now, and how can you protect yourself and your assets against its harmful effects?
Inflation is the rise in the prices of goods and services over time. It’s usually caused by an increase in the money supply when more bills chase a limited number of goods. This can happen when a government prints more money, as with the recent stimulus money, or when banks create new loans.
Inflation can have a range of adverse effects on an economy. For example, it can reduce the purchasing power of people’s savings, make it harder for businesses to plan and invest, and it can push up the cost of living.
One way to protect yourself from inflation is to invest in real estate. Real estate is a physical asset that tends to maintain its value even during periods of high inflation. And if you own your home outright, you don’t have to worry about rent going up.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/March_11_Blog_1.jpg" width="2510" height="1670" />
Real estate can also be an excellent way to hedge against inflation. A hedge is an investment designed to offset the effects of another asset. So, if you have money invested in stocks and they go down in value because of inflation, your real estate will go up in value and help to balance out your portfolio.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking of investing in real estate. First, make sure you research the market carefully before investing. Properties in high demand and located in desirable areas are likely to appreciate more quickly than those that are not. Second, be prepared for fluctuations in the market. Real estate prices can go up and down, so you need to be ready for potential losses as well as gains.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/March_11_Blog_2.jpg" width="2364" height="1773" />
Overall, real estate is a versatile and relatively stable investment that can help protect you from the harmful effects of inflation. If you’re concerned about the current state of the economy or just looking for a way to safeguard your assets, investing in real estate may be the right move for you.
For more information on investing in real estate, please <a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/">visit our website</a>.2022-03-11T13:55:00-07:002022-03-11T13:33:01-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:18152Taylor Lautner Just Listed his Agoura Hills Mansion for just under $5 MillionHollywood heartthrob Taylor Lautner has listed his stunning Agoura Hills mansion for sale at just under $5 million. The luxury home, which sits on 8.9 acres, spans 5,647 square feet of living space, boasts five bedrooms and four bathrooms. It is located in a semi-remote area surrounded by mountains and hidden away in a gated community.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/222000854/31625-lobo-canyon-rd-agoura-hills-ca-91301/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Screen_Shot_2022-03-07_at_5.39.56_PM.jpg" width="1797" height="487" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
Since purchasing the brand-new property in 2020, Lautner has been busy adding his style through sleek updates that add to the property's allure. These updates include concrete and wide-plank French oak floors, Fleetwood doors and windows, and a Control4 home automation system. Additional highlights include a modern style gourmet kitchen equipped with imported Italian cabinetry, an eat-in island with high-end stainless appliances, and a neighboring den that's kept separate from the formal living and dining rooms by a dual-sided fireplace.
The primary retreat comes equipped with a spa-like bath with a soaking tub, open shower, and dual vanities. You will also find an office, a media room, and a speakeasy-style lounge. Venturing outdoors, you will be ensconced in a picturesque setting perfect for entertaining. The outdoor area comes with an infinity-edge pool and spa, a cabana sporting a TV and kitchenette, a duo of firepits, a barbecue center, and a bocce ball court.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/tl2.JPG" width="766" height="498" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Lautner_3.JPG" width="760" height="505" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Lautner_4.JPG" width="764" height="524" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Lautner_5.JPG" width="763" height="527" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/LAutner_6.JPG" width="767" height="483" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Lautner_7.JPG" width="766" height="492" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Lautner_8.JPG" width="765" height="493" />2022-03-06T11:07:00-07:002022-03-07T18:49:35-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17985Hidden Hills Ranks #17 out of 25 of the Best West Coast towns to LiveSmall town living, the former American Dream? According to a recent article, <a href="https://stacker.com/stories/30338/best-west-coast-small-towns-live" target="_blank">"Best West Coast small towns to live in,"</a> the dream of escaping city life for a quieter, smaller town is still ideal.
The most important aspect is still location, location, location. While many Americans prefer small-town living, they still want access to larger cities that they can commute to for work, cultural activities, and more.
If you're looking for a small town with plenty of amenities and an excellent quality of life, Hidden Hills is a top contender. It's ranked #17 on the list of the 25 best West Coast towns to live in.
Hidden Hills began in 1950 when developer A.E. Hanson placed a large sign on Ventura Boulevard at the intersection of Long Valley Road that announced, "1000 acres of elbow room. Live in Hidden Hills gated community where living is fun. Full Acre Lots $4750."
Initially, A.E. Hansen built two model homes in 1950 on Long Valley Road; one sold for $35,000. By 1957, the cost of a three- or four-bedroom home on a 1-acre site was between $27,500 to $47,500. One- to 5-acre homesites sold for $7,950 to $12,500.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/blog/2022-year-to-date-real-estate-market/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Resort_Photo_Twitter_Header.jpg" width="1500" height="500" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
Fast forward to today, and there are now approximately 670 homes ranging in price from $2,000,000 to $20,000,000… and beyond.
Known for its privacy, <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/neighborhoods/hidden-hills" target="_blank">Hidden Hills, CA, </a>has become a haven for celebrities and high-profile professionals. It is a unique 24-hour guarded and gated community that is just under two square miles. The architectural styles range from California Ranch-style to Luxury Estate homes. The homes range from approximately 2,200 square feet to over 24,000 square feet.
The town has a population of just 1,500 residents, but it offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation. You'll find plenty of open space, parks, and trails for hiking and biking, as well as a golf course and equestrian center. There are also a variety of shops and restaurants to enjoy.
<a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/neighborhoods/hidden-hills" target="_blank">What is it that makes Hidden Hills so unique?</a> Located in the San Fernando Valley, it possesses an authentic country atmosphere with the absence of sidewalks and streetlights and the existence of white three-rail wooden fences, corrals, and barns that have preserved a way of life for the residents of <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/mls/listings?search_type=envelope&south=34.15033452843673&west=-118.67518442008533&north=34.17703784406509&east=-118.63947885367908&polygon=%5B%5B%5B-118.6690904412035%2C34.17703784406509%5D%2C%5B-118.6581041130785%2C34.17696683581127%5D%2C%5B-118.65784662101306%2C34.1697236800411%5D%2C%5B-118.65389840934314%2C34.16958165116487%5D%2C%5B-118.65381257865467%2C34.16603085158687%5D%2C%5B-118.64617364738025%2C34.16617288643783%5D%2C%5B-118.64522950980701%2C34.1661018690422%5D%2C%5B-118.64514367911853%2C34.16247990264451%5D%2C%5B-118.64213960502185%2C34.16247990264451%5D%2C%5B-118.63947885367908%2C34.15821856676315%5D%2C%5B-118.64643113944568%2C34.155306530219995%5D%2C%5B-118.6485769066576%2C34.15871573369785%5D%2C%5B-118.6503793511156%2C34.15864471002926%5D%2C%5B-118.65029352042713%2C34.15729524897548%5D%2C%5B-118.65346925590076%2C34.15722422411211%5D%2C%5B-118.654413393474%2C34.15722422411211%5D%2C%5B-118.654413393474%2C34.159283920896%5D%2C%5B-118.6555291924242%2C34.159283920896%5D%2C%5B-118.65561502311267%2C34.15701114916354%5D%2C%5B-118.65887658927478%2C34.15694012406122%5D%2C%5B-118.6587907585863%2C34.153743932628224%5D%2C%5B-118.66411226127185%2C34.153957015820474%5D%2C%5B-118.66522806022205%2C34.15331776463081%5D%2C%5B-118.66479890677967%2C34.15033452843673%5D%2C%5B-118.66660135123767%2C34.15189718910846%5D%2C%5B-118.66788881156482%2C34.150760711487116%5D%2C%5B-118.6679746422533%2C34.153743932628224%5D%2C%5B-118.67501275870838%2C34.15367290477799%5D%2C%5B-118.67518442008533%2C34.16865845764383%5D%2C%5B-118.66891877982654%2C34.16872947288856%5D%2C%5B-118.6690904412035%2C34.17703784406509%5D%5D%5D&omnibox=Hidden+Hills%2C+CA%2C+USA&property_type%5B%5D=Residential&property_type%5B%5D=Condo&property_type%5B%5D=Town+House&property_type%5B%5D=Multi-family&property_type%5B%5D=Land&property_type%5B%5D=Other&property_type%5B%5D=Residential&property_type%5B%5D=Condo&property_type%5B%5D=Town+House&property_type%5B%5D=Multi-family&property_type%5B%5D=Land&property_type%5B%5D=Other&status%5B%5D=Active&status_days%5BActive%5D=" target="_blank">Hidden Hills properties</a>. Miles and miles of bridle trails, along with a beautiful and peaceful ambiance, create an extraordinary place to live and raise a family if you're so inclined.
The dedicated staff and governing bodies of Hidden Hills cultivate a peaceful, safe community and offer the individuals and families who call it home a sanctuary.
<a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/mls/listings?search_type=envelope&south=34.15033452843673&west=-118.67518442008533&north=34.17703784406509&east=-118.63947885367908&polygon=%5B%5B%5B-118.6690904412035%2C34.17703784406509%5D%2C%5B-118.6581041130785%2C34.17696683581127%5D%2C%5B-118.65784662101306%2C34.1697236800411%5D%2C%5B-118.65389840934314%2C34.16958165116487%5D%2C%5B-118.65381257865467%2C34.16603085158687%5D%2C%5B-118.64617364738025%2C34.16617288643783%5D%2C%5B-118.64522950980701%2C34.1661018690422%5D%2C%5B-118.64514367911853%2C34.16247990264451%5D%2C%5B-118.64213960502185%2C34.16247990264451%5D%2C%5B-118.63947885367908%2C34.15821856676315%5D%2C%5B-118.64643113944568%2C34.155306530219995%5D%2C%5B-118.6485769066576%2C34.15871573369785%5D%2C%5B-118.6503793511156%2C34.15864471002926%5D%2C%5B-118.65029352042713%2C34.15729524897548%5D%2C%5B-118.65346925590076%2C34.15722422411211%5D%2C%5B-118.654413393474%2C34.15722422411211%5D%2C%5B-118.654413393474%2C34.159283920896%5D%2C%5B-118.6555291924242%2C34.159283920896%5D%2C%5B-118.65561502311267%2C34.15701114916354%5D%2C%5B-118.65887658927478%2C34.15694012406122%5D%2C%5B-118.6587907585863%2C34.153743932628224%5D%2C%5B-118.66411226127185%2C34.153957015820474%5D%2C%5B-118.66522806022205%2C34.15331776463081%5D%2C%5B-118.66479890677967%2C34.15033452843673%5D%2C%5B-118.66660135123767%2C34.15189718910846%5D%2C%5B-118.66788881156482%2C34.150760711487116%5D%2C%5B-118.6679746422533%2C34.153743932628224%5D%2C%5B-118.67501275870838%2C34.15367290477799%5D%2C%5B-118.67518442008533%2C34.16865845764383%5D%2C%5B-118.66891877982654%2C34.16872947288856%5D%2C%5B-118.6690904412035%2C34.17703784406509%5D%5D%5D&omnibox=Hidden+Hills%2C+CA%2C+USA&property_type%5B%5D=Residential&property_type%5B%5D=Condo&property_type%5B%5D=Town+House&property_type%5B%5D=Multi-family&property_type%5B%5D=Land&property_type%5B%5D=Other&property_type%5B%5D=Residential&property_type%5B%5D=Condo&property_type%5B%5D=Town+House&property_type%5B%5D=Multi-family&property_type%5B%5D=Land&property_type%5B%5D=Other&status%5B%5D=Active&status_days%5BActive%5D=36500&status%5B%5D=Under+Contract&status_days%5BUnder+Contract%5D=36500&status%5B%5D=Pending&status_days%5BPending%5D=36500&status_days%5BSold%5D=180&mailer_schedule=instant&order=price%3Adesc"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Real_Estate_Banner_Landscape_1.jpg" width="3456" height="1728" /></a>
Hidden Hills CA luxury real estate is truly a unique and exclusive community to call home! Want to learn more about this magnificent community? <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/neighborhoods/hidden-hills">Click here</a> to learn more about the people and lifestyle, local restaurants, and school districts.
Are you looking<a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/neighborhoods/hidden-hills" target="_blank"> to invest in Hidden Hills real estate?</a> Dana & Jeff can help you find the perfect Hidden Hills luxury home that suits your needs and budget. <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/neighborhoods/hidden-hills" target="_blank">Contact them today!</a>2022-02-25T12:38:00-07:002022-03-07T18:40:03-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17934Dana & Jeff @ Frontgate Real Estate share with you their favorite features of this one-of-a-kind estate.<a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/" target="_blank">Frontgate Real Estate</a> is the future of real estate, offering a streamlined, tech-savvy, and personalized experience for buyers and sellers.
Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck are the founders of Frontgate Real Estate, with combined 40-plus years of expertise in California luxury real estate. Dana, Jeff, and the Frontgate team consistently advise a wide range of influential buyers and sellers in a manner and style that has earned them recognition on a national level.
Today, we highlight a stunning, newly constructed 6 bedroom, 8 bath Hidden Hills modern estate as Dana and Jeff share their favorite features of this one-of-a-kind home.
Property Description
This newly constructed 6 bedroom, 8 bath Hidden Hills contemporary estate is situated on an elevated 1+ acre lot overlooking a pastoral hillside and natural state parkland. The home is a breathtaking mix of modern design, lavish outdoor entertainment areas, and elegant lines.
Dana
This is a truly stunning property. From a gorgeous double door entry that opens up into a light-filled foyer, the open floor plan gives you the feeling of space and luxury. At the same time, the custom design showcases white oak plank flooring, volume ceilings, and floating stairs with an iron railing.
<a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/featured-listings/claw/mls-22-118299-24961_kit_carson_rd_hidden_hills_ca_91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/KitCarson2.JPG" width="800" height="529" /></a>
That being said, my absolute favorite part of this property would have to be the chef’s kitchen and the walls of sliding glass doors that open up to the outside pool area. The kitchen is equipped with state-of-the-art appliances such as La Cornue Range and a TRUE commercial full-size refrigerator/freezer. Then it opens to a sunny breakfast area and spacious great room with a fireplace, beverage bar, and views of the expansive entertainer’s yard. The sliding glass door walls complete this room and complement our natural California lifestyle.
<a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/featured-listings/claw/mls-22-118299-24961_kit_carson_rd_hidden_hills_ca_91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/KitCarson3.JPG" width="800" height="529" /></a>
<a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/featured-listings/claw/mls-22-118299-24961_kit_carson_rd_hidden_hills_ca_91302/" target="_blank">Jeff</a>
This is one of my favorite listings, and my favorite part of this home would be the outdoor space. When you live in an area like Hidden Hills, you would almost be remiss if you didn’t incorporate your outdoor area into an entertainment space; this house has done that. As a result, this backyard is a mecca for those who like to entertain.
<a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/featured-listings/claw/mls-22-118299-24961_kit_carson_rd_hidden_hills_ca_91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/KitCarson4.JPG" width="800" height="536" /></a>
The outdoor space includes an outdoor living room, fireplace, built-in BBQ, inviting pool with underwater speaker system, spa, poolside fire pit, and multiple decks. Not only that, an adjacent pool house offers additional living space perfect for a gym or separate office with its own kitchen, bedroom, and bath. There is also a grassy play area plus a two-stall barn with easy access to riding trails bath flanks the rear of the property… this location truly has it all.
<a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/featured-listings/claw/mls-22-118299-24961_kit_carson_rd_hidden_hills_ca_91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/KitCarson6.JPG" width="800" height="529" /></a>
Want to learn more about this property? <a href="https://www.frontgaterealestate.com/featured-listings/claw/mls-22-118299-24961_kit_carson_rd_hidden_hills_ca_91302/" target="_blank">Click here to access the listing information.</a>2022-02-22T12:44:00-07:002022-03-01T07:00:47-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17817The One: Mega Mansion in Beverly Hills Sells for $126 Million at Bankruptcy AuctionIn a stunning turn of events, the unfinished mega-mansion known as The One in Beverly Hills sold for just $126 million at a bankruptcy auction. Originally listed at an eye-watering $295 million, the mostly completed marble-and-glass mansion failed to find a buyer at that price.
The One, located at the end of a cul-de-sac on Airole Way, was originally envisioned as a 36,000 square foot home; however, construction halted in 2016 after the property ran into financial trouble. The new owner of The One has their work cut out for them to finish the mansion and make it livable. But at $126 million, they've got themselves a bargain - even in Beverly Hills.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/The_One_1.JPG" width="1026" height="683" />
Sitting on 3.8 acres with 21 bedrooms and 42 bathrooms, this property boasts 360 views, including the Pacific Ocean, downtown Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Mountains, it truly is a visual mecca for luxury and real estate lovers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/the_one_7.JPG" width="1026" height="640" />
Not only does The One come with a staggering 21 bedrooms and 42 bathrooms, coupled with astonishing views, but it also boasts a 5,000-square-foot master suite with enormous walk-in closets, an adjoining two-story office, and a private pool.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/the_one_8.JPG" width="1026" height="577" />
Not in the mood for nightlife? Head to the third-floor recreation level, where you'll find a bowling alley, a 64-foot-long indoor swimming pool, a wellness center with a gym, a full-service hair and beauty salon, and a juice bar. Employees not included. The One comes equipped with a small movie theater that seats 40 and Dolby Digital sound; after the movie, escape to your private wine cellar with racks for 10,000 bottles, plus a cigar lounge, and much more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/the_one_5.JPG" width="1025" height="684" />
The One was touted as "the largest and <a href="https://robbreport.com/feature/most-expensive-houses-world-sale-now-2807417/">most expensive urban property</a> in the world" however; this mecca of luxury went into receivership due to the number of unpaid debts totaling in the millions.
The new owner of "The One" will have to contend with the currently pending financial and legal issues. But for the right person, this property could be well worth the hassle.
We'll be keeping an eye on this story to see how The One's new owner finishes the mega-mansion and what they do with it once it's completed. Stay tuned!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/the_one_6.JPG" width="1027" height="685" />2022-02-15T14:23:00-07:002022-03-07T08:31:20-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17695Frank Sinatra’s Former Los Angeles Home Lists For $21.5 Million<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frank_Sinatra_Frontgate_Real_Estate.png" width="1450" height="810" />
Listed for sale for a cool $21.5 million, but it’s not just any home. It was once owned by Frank Sinatra and served as his home during the 50s and 60s. Designed by Pereira Luckman AIA, the firm known for their design of the Los Angeles International Airport, the home was built in 1951 for Dora Hutchinson, who rented the home out to Sinatra for years after she left L.A. for New York.
<img alt="a piano" class="ResponsiveImageContainer-dlOMGF byslZC responsive-image__image" src="https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_1600%2Cc_limit/1291400(12).jpg" srcset="https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_120,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 120w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_240,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 240w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_320,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 320w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_640,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 640w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_960,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 960w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_1280,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 1280w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da760e9f70802ed795e/master/w_1600,c_limit/1291400(12).jpg 1600w" sizes="100vw" />
Photo: Scott Everts for The Agency and Sotheby’s International Realty
Known as Byrdview, the 13.7 acre property features a main living space and a guest house, each with their own pools, and a 2,000 square foot pergola-covered outdoor lounge area. The spaces are immediately impressive thanks to the distinctly mid-century construction, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and elegant courtyard that boasts a stone walkway leading from the driveway to the front door. The home is simultaneously a great fit for those looking for privacy or those looking to host—its private gates and nearly three mile driveway a comfort for the former, and its massive outdoor space and 100 parking spots a boon to the latter. Tasteful wood panel wall accents throughout allow the mid-century charm to continue inside of the 8,000+ total square feet of living area. A gymnasium, massage and steam rooms, and sauna can also be found indoors.
<img alt="One of two pools on the property." class="ResponsiveImageContainer-dlOMGF byslZC responsive-image__image" src="https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_1600%2Cc_limit/1291400(37).jpg" srcset="https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_120,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 120w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_240,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 240w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_320,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 320w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_640,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 640w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_960,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 960w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_1280,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 1280w, https://media.architecturaldigest.com/photos/61252da54d1f8f8d6a083c8c/master/w_1600,c_limit/1291400(37).jpg 1600w" sizes="100vw" />
2022-02-04T16:00:00-07:002022-02-05T18:10:43-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17398Frontgate Real Estate Presents Contemporary Newly Constructed Estate In Hidden Hills
Dana Olmes and Jeff Biebuyck present
This beautiful newly constructed estate is situated on over 1 acre of land, elevated with views of the beautiful hills and open countryside. Watch the sunset in peaceful solitude from your private backyard, outdoor heated living space, pool house, 2 stall barn with bathroom, and a large grassy play area. The backyard includes a built-in barbecue, outdoor fireplace, fire pit, multiple pool decks, and more.
The main house has an expansive 4 car garage and offers 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, with volume ceilings, and a light-filled interior that is ideal for large gatherings and family living. The spacious gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances including La Cornue Range, and a TRUE commercial refrigerator/freezer. A generous center island with bar seating, walk-in pantry, and beverage bar with refrigerator and icemaker. There is plenty of open space to share while cooking up delicious dishes with friends and family!
Located in the premier gated community of Hidden Hills, this pristine estate is adjacent to Ahmanson Ranch with acres of open space for riding horses, bikes, and hiking. Enjoy all the beauty Southern California has to offer. Community offerings include a sparkling community pool, tennis courts, multiple horse arenas, and miles of riding trails. Plus the resident's favorite weekly Farmers market offers fresh organic produce, colorful garden flowers, and delicious eateries. Serviced by the award-winning Las Virgenes School District and located within minutes from Bristol Farms, Old Town Calabasas, and The Commons Mall. There's no place like home!
Address: 24961 Kit Carson Rd, Hidden Hills, CA 91302
Price: $15,999,000
Photo credit: Luxury Level
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<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/22118299/24961-kit-carson-rd-hidden-hills-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3790971" src="https://www.hauteresidence.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/bss_6077.jpg" alt="Real Estate" width="1920" height="1280" srcset="https://www.hauteresidence.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/bss_6077.jpg 1920w, https://www.hauteresidence.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/bss_6077-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.hauteresidence.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/bss_6077-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.hauteresidence.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/bss_6077-1024x683.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a>2022-01-31T20:38:00-07:002022-02-05T17:42:17-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17230Residents In Calabasas, Hidden Hills Could Face Water Restrictions If They Won’t Conserve<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Calabasas Home 1.jpg" width="4000" height="3000" />
The City of Santa Monica is cutting off the flow to wealthy residents who don't conserve water.
Fines don't really register as an inconvenience among wealthy residents living on Santa Monica Mountain's upscale streets, so city officials are now threatening restricted flow rates that repeatedly fail conserve.
Wealthy homeowners in the Santa Monica Mountains community will face consequences if they're found to be wasting water. The Las Virgenes Municipal Water District is now doing more than just issuing fines to those that go over their allotted "water budget."
Water is becoming a precious commodity in Southern California. The reservoir run by the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District, contains a six-month supply for the district's 75,000 customers.
However, the water district relies solely on imported water from Northern California, and the supply is limited.
The concern is that thousands of customers in the area are not conserving water at all.
"We don't have consistent precipitation events up north, and we don't have a lot of water for us, or don't have enough water, actually, for us to actually use here in the district," said Mike McNutt of Las Virgenes Municipal Water District.
This water district serves some of the more affluent cities in Southern California. They include Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and Westlake Village. And some of these affluent customers are going over their allotted water budget.
The water district installed 23,000 state-of-the-art meters that measure water usage very close to real-time. They know right away who is not cutting back. The water district has tried fining those customers, but for these affluent customers, it's not a deterrent.
Now, the water district says it will restrict the flow of water, to those who exceed their water budget, to get their attention.
"What we do for our end of the bargain is ensure water reliability for all of our customers," McNutt said.
There are plenty of people in this area who are helping, the district says between 50 to 60 percent of customers have been able to cut back on their water usage by as much as 25 percent.
"I don't think it's challenging. I mean, I think you do what you have to do you, you know. Just be smart about things," said Agoura Hills resident Jennifer Burns.
Retiree Robert Walker says he's been able to cut back on his water usage by 25 percent. He's replaced his front lawn with artificial grass and he's made some changes inside his home.
"Some of the shower heads inside I replaced those. And I just try to be careful. You know, when I take showers, I take shorter showers," said Walker.
For customers who are using way too much water, state law prohibits a water district to shut off the water. However, districts can control the flow to get the message across to cut back.2022-01-20T19:55:00-07:002022-03-01T07:12:48-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:17081California rolls out scannable QR Code Vaccine Record. Here’s how to get yours.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/CADPHDigitalCOVID19VaccineRecordWithHand.png" width="338" height="347" />
In California, anyone can access find their digital COVID-19 vaccine record through California Department of Public Health. Frontgate Real Estate shares how you can get yours through the California Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record portal.
What is a Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record (DCVR)?
Your Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record is an electronic vaccination record drawn from the data stored in the California immunization registry and is an official record of the state of California. The DCVR includes a QR code that (when scanned by a SMART Health Card reader) will display the same information as your paper CDC vaccine card: your name, date of birth, vaccination dates and vaccine type.
You may also continue to use your CDC card as proof of vaccination in addition to other possible options such as a digital or physical proof of vaccination from your provider/pharmacy.
How to get your QR code?
Opt into the Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record portal at <a href="https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/" target="_blank">https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/</a>
Just enter a few details to get a link to your personalized QR code and digital copy of your COVID-19 vaccination record.
If you want to share your proof of vaccination, you can use either the electronic version you’ll get from the portal or the card you were given at time of vaccination.
If you are a parent or guardian and have multiple vaccine records associated with a single mobile phone number or email address, enter each digital vaccine record request separately.
The portal provides only a digital copy of your vaccine record. If you received your vaccinations from a federal agency (e.g., Department of Defense, Indian Health Services, or Veterans Affairs), you will need to reach out to those agencies for assistance with your vaccination record.
Click the link below to receive a link to a QR code and digital copy of your COVID-19 vaccination record:
<a href="https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/" target="_blank">https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/</a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/HH_Gate1_EDITED.png" width="1350" height="561" /></a>2022-01-12T14:50:00-07:002022-01-12T18:06:04-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16995How to Overcome Common Obstacles When Buying Your Dream Home<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21768314/3210-rickey-ct-thousand-oaks-ca-91362/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Rickey_Court_.png" width="1111" height="757" /></a>
Buying a new home can be exciting, but it also takes a lot of work. You’ll need to be prepared to run into a few issues. For example, you might have trouble finding the perfect home if inventory is low. You’ll also have to figure out how to pay for the house and whether or not a home is in good enough shape. If you’re planning on buying a home in the greater Los Angeles area, Frontgate Real Estate can help you tackle any obstacles that you face. To learn more about their services, contact them today.
Finding the Right One
One of the most difficult parts of buying a new home is finding the right one for you. There are so many options on the market.
Work with the Frontgate Real Estate team to enjoy the benefit of their local expertise and years of experience.
It’s important to know what the local housing market looks like. In Southern California, for instance, prices went up almost 13 percent in the last year alone.
These online tools can help you determine the safety of a neighborhood.<br /><br /><br />
If you’re unsure about whether you like a neighborhood, book a short stay in a vacation rental to get a true feel for what it’s like and what you can take advantage of close by.
Take some time to consider what size house you need. The bigger house isn’t always the better one.
Funding
In order to buy a house, you’ll first need to make sure you have a high enough credit score and income. You’ll also need to decide what kind of loan you want to get.
Keep track of your credit score with Credit Karma.
If your credit score is iffy, work to improve it before you buy your new home.
Take some time to learn about the different home loans you can get.
If you don’t have enough income to meet the lender ratio, there are a few things you can do to increase your income.
Dealing With Damage
Another obstacle that will come up when you’re trying to buy a home is determining whether or not it is in good condition. Homes with several issues might not meet the appraisal value needed to secure a loan. You should also look for a home that will be safe for you.
Avoid homes with structural issues, such as foundation damage, sagging floors, cracked ceilings, etc.
Keep in mind that some cosmetic problems such as drab paint jobs or bad curb appeal can be easily fixed.
Go with a professional inspector to learn about the severity of any issues that come up.
If you find out that there were undisclosed issues or the seller agreed to fix something but didn’t follow through, you’ll have to bring this up later as a legal case.
Before you buy a home, you’ll need to do some research. Scout out the area. Make sure there aren’t any hidden damages. And keep your finances in good order. Soon, you’ll be moving into your dream home!
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
Contact <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/testimonials" data-uw-rm-brl="false">Jeff and Dana</a> and the Frontgate Real Estate team
(747) 888-0508
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/HH_Gate1_EDITED.png" width="1350" height="561" /></a>2022-01-04T05:46:00-07:002022-01-07T08:01:45-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16893Top Real Estate Experts Answer: Are You Waiting To Buy?<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/about/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Real_Estate_Experts_Jeff_and_Dana.jpg" width="950" height="450" /></a>
2021 has most certainly been the year of the seller’s market, with record sales, asking prices and equity gains across all corners of the country. While some media talking heads have warned of the potential of a market downturn, we turned to the real experts to answer a common question among buyers: Should I wait for the market to cool down?
<br />“The real estate market is not the stock market. It just doesn’t drop 30 points overnight,” says <a href="https://californialistings.com/jeffbiebuyck/">Jeff Biebuyck</a>, California Listings’ Calabasas expert agent and partner at FrontGate Real Estate. “We have clients that have been ‘waiting for the market to cool’ for the past five or six years.”
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21100659/29105-old-mill-creek-agoura-hills-ca-91301/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-100659_0-1024x683.jpg" alt="21 100659 0 1024x683" data-id="17710" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-100659_0-e1640720059809.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/2021/12/28/does-it-pay-to-wait/21-100659_0-3/" class="wp-image-17710" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
FrontGate Real Estate exclusive listing: 29105 Old Mill Creek Lane, Agoura Hills
<br />The “cool” may not be coming, but Biebuyck and partner <a href="https://californialistings.com/danaolmes/">Dana Olmes</a>, instead point to value appreciation. The time that would-be buyers wait to make a move is simply a loss on the backend.
<br />“The average median appreciation in our area alone just in the last year has been over 25 percent,” Biebuyck says. “If you are expecting to be in your home for over 10 years, do the math from your home’s value 10 years ago.”
<br /><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="512" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-1024x512.png" alt="Forecast External Dec F9f640 1024x512" class="wp-image-17688" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-1024x512.png 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-300x150.png 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-768x384.png 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-1536x768.png 1536w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-360x180.png 360w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-750x375.png 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640-1140x570.png 1140w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/forecast_external_dec-f9f640.png 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" />
Zillow: Home values are expected to grow 3.7 percent in the three month period from November to February 2022, and to end 2021 up 19.4 percent from the end of 2020. Over the longer-term, Zillow expects home values to grow 14.3 percent over the 12 months ending November 2022.
<br />A home’s value is the number Pacific Palisades expert and founder of Amalfi Estates, <a href="https://californialistings.com/anthonymarguleas/">Anthony Marguleas</a>, says buyers should be focused on in this market as experts don’t predict a decline in home values in 2022 or 2023.
<br /><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SR21266440_0-2.jpg" alt="SR21266440 0 2" data-id="17715" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SR21266440_0-2.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/2021/12/28/does-it-pay-to-wait/sr21266440_0-3/" class="wp-image-17715" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SR21266440_0-2.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SR21266440_0-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SR21266440_0-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SR21266440_0-2-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" />
Amalfi Estates exclusive listing: 22237 Camay Court Calabasas
<br />“The historic and rapid growth in values due to COVID-induced market conditions created an environment where the median home value in the U.S. rose by 17 percent in one year,” Marguleas says. “Predictions for 2022 point to a much needed market stabilization where values hold and buyers can have a little breathing room. That’s a healthy market and it remains a great time to make your move.”
<br />That breathing room doesn’t, however, mean depreciation. In fact, when it comes to this concept of the market “cooling,” a number of California Listings’ agents say the real news is that home value appreciation is decelerating—not declining.
<br /><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SB20097596_2.jpg" alt="SB20097596 2" data-id="17716" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SB20097596_2.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/2021/12/28/does-it-pay-to-wait/sb20097596_2/" class="wp-image-17716" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SB20097596_2.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SB20097596_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SB20097596_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SB20097596_2-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" />
Stroyke Properties exclusive listing: 2806 The Strand, Hermosa Beach<br />“Economists are predicting a 6 percent annual appreciation over the next four years resulting in over 30 percent additional equity appreciation,” says Manhattan Beach expert agent and Stroyke Properties Co-Founder/Partner <a href="https://californialistings.com/brynstroyke/">Bryn Stroyke</a>. “So for your, say, $2 million price range that comes out to $600,000 of additional equity.”<br />So, does it pay to wait? No.
<br />Biebuyck notes that with interest rates close to 30 year lows, mortgages can—and will—only go up from here. And while a 1 percent increase in the next year or two may not seem like much, that could add hundreds or thousands onto your future mortgage payment, while also missing out on a year or two worth of equity.
<br />“Many people believe we are at the peak,” Stroyke adds. “Many thought we were at the peak a couple years ago and look what happened.”
<br />Are you thinking about homeownership but need some advice?
Let us connect you to the best real estate experts in California—an expert who specifically focuses on the neighborhood you’re trying to buy into. E-mail: <a href="mailto:hello@californiaListings.com">hello@californialistings.com</a>. First step is taking the first step!2021-12-28T18:47:00-07:002021-12-28T19:16:35-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16868Calabasas Estate Maximizes Outdoor Living With First-Class Security
Living in the famed Oaks development in Calabasas offers plenty of perks. Living in the Estates subsection of custom homes within the Oaks is next level luxury and cache.
<br /><a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21761992/25232-prado-del-misterio-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0-1024x682.jpg" alt="21 761992 0 1024x682" data-id="17090" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/?attachment_id=17090" class="wp-image-17090" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0-300x200.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0-768x512.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0-750x500.jpg 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_0.jpg 1081w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
<br /><a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21761992/25232-prado-del-misterio-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="658" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1-1024x658.jpg" alt="21 761992 8 1 1024x658" data-id="17091" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/?attachment_id=17091" class="wp-image-17091" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1-1024x658.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1-300x193.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1-768x493.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1-750x482.jpg 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_8_1.jpg 1082w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
<br /><a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/properties/25232-prado-del-misterio">25232 Prado Del Misterio</a> offers six bedrooms and seven baths across more than 9,500 square feet of gorgeous living space. Set behind two community guard gates as well as a property gate, the residence provides first-class security within the prestigious development.
<br />The 8,000 square feet of interior living space feature meticulous attention to design detail, including a two-story entry, coffered ceiling detail, statement fireplaces and picture windows overlooking the expansive gardens and grounds. In addition to the bedrooms and living spaces, the home also features a game room, gym and wine cellar.
<br /><a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21761992/25232-prado-del-misterio-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="681" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1-1024x681.jpg" alt="21 761992 19 1 1024x681" data-id="17092" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/?attachment_id=17092" class="wp-image-17092" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1-300x199.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1-768x511.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1-750x499.jpg 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_19_1.jpg 1083w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21761992/25232-prado-del-misterio-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="663" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2-1024x663.jpg" alt="21 761992 46 2 1024x663" data-id="17093" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/?attachment_id=17093" class="wp-image-17093" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2-1024x663.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2-300x194.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2-768x498.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2-750x486.jpg 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_46_2.jpg 1079w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
<br />According to listing agent <a href="https://californialistings.com/jeffbiebuyck/">Jeff Biebuyck</a>, one of the property’s best features is the enormous outdoor living space. Spanning more than 1,500 square feet, the residence maximizes indoor/outdoor living to it’s fullest potential.
<br />In addition to the lagoon-style pool and spa, the grounds also feature an outdoor living and dining room, built-in grill station and bar, a lit tennis court, firepit, a large yard and a property line that blends into the hillside.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21761992/25232-prado-del-misterio-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="681" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1-1024x681.jpg" alt="21 761992 5 1 1024x681" data-id="17095" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/?attachment_id=17095" class="wp-image-17095" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1-300x199.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1-768x511.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1-750x499.jpg 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_5_1.jpg 1083w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21761992/25232-prado-del-misterio-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="657" src="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1-1024x657.jpg" alt="21 761992 1 1 1024x657" data-id="17094" data-full-url="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1.jpg" data-link="https://californialistings.com/?attachment_id=17094" class="wp-image-17094" srcset="https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1-1024x657.jpg 1024w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1-300x193.jpg 300w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1-768x493.jpg 768w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1-750x481.jpg 750w, https://californialistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/21-761992_1_1.jpg 1078w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a>
<br />The property is being offered at $12,995,000, with Biebuyck and his Frontgate partner, <a href="https://californialistings.com/danaolmes/">Dana Olmes</a>, holding the listing.
For more information, <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/properties/25232-prado-del-misterio">click here</a>.
Visit California Listings
2021-12-24T08:42:00-07:002021-12-28T18:47:09-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16815Celebrity Decorating for the 2021 Holidays
The stars are decorating for the 2021 holidays! From glittering ornaments to unique lights in an array of colors, see how these celebrities are adorning their homes this year.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW6xIoIMY_4/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Jessica_Simpson_Christmas_2021.png" width="898" height="1046" /></a>
JESSICA SIMPSON
Jessica enjoyed decorating her tree and showing off the luxurious ornaments she had collected for this holiday season. The extra tall evergreen that sits next to her stairs was covered with oversized colors in blue and pink before being garnished by strands of silver garlands adorning each step rail for an elegant look not seen anywhere else!
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXKTklQIqMf/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Madonna_Christmas_2021_-_1_.png" width="936" height="926" /></a>
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXKTklQIqMf/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Madonna_Christmas_2021_-_2_.png" width="756" height="428" /></a>
MADONNA
Madonna enjoyed celebrating her last day of Hanukkah decorating her ornate Christmas tree with her kids dressed in brightly colored green elf costumes, shared in a festive video posted on her Instagram earlier this month.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXEfq3CpWoW/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Kourtney_Christmas_2021.png" width="1232" height="808" /></a>
KOURTNEY KARDASHIAN
Kourtney's home is breathtaking with its stunning holiday decorations. The massive Christmas trees and garland of lights give an elegant feel to the whole room, which can be seen in this sneak peek into her luxurious home.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/gwenstefani/?hl=en" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Blake_Shelton_Gwen_Stefani.jpg" width="1400" height="1400" /></a>
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani
The Voice stars, Gwen and Blake Shelton shared a festive holiday moment in Gwen’s story late November of Blake starring their perfectly lit tree surrounded by family and camo this holiday season.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWmeGu4pmPY/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Britney_Spears_Holiday_2021.png" width="630" height="1028" /></a>
Britney Spears
Pop icon Britney didn’t hold back in fashion, festivities, and over the top decorating as she poses excitably in front of her colossal Christmas tree adorned in reds, whites, and elegant pops of gold.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kendalljenner/?hl=en" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Stars-Decorating-for-the-Holidays-20214.jpg" width="1000" height="1347" /></a>
Kendall Jenner
Model and Hidden Hills star, Kendall Jenner decked out her elegantly styled home with her perfectly tinseled tree and an over the top garland for this holiday season.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/HH_Gate1_EDITED.png" width="1350" height="561" /></a>2021-12-20T17:00:00-07:002021-12-20T21:21:19-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16794 Things to Do for the Holidays and New Years in the San Fernando Valley and Los AngelesStill need plans for the Holidays and for the upcoming New Year? The Frontgate Team covers local Holiday and New Year events and experiences throughout the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles from Candy Cane Lane, Snow N Glow Ventura, and more!
Candy Cane Lane
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Candy-Cane-Lane-Woodland-Hills_4x2.jpg" width="400" height="200" />
OPEN NIGHTLY 6-10PM- Woodland Hills
Candy Cane Lane is a group of homeowners at Lubao & Oxnard Streets in Woodland Hills who collectively decide each year to put on an amazing holiday display of lights and decorations.There is no contact information for Candy Cane Lane, as it is an informal decision of homeowners. As a service to our community, here is the information the West Valley~Warner Center Chamber of Commerce is able to provide.
<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.free2funla.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Candy-Cane-Lane-WH_01.jpeg" alt="Candy Cane Lane WH_01" width="400" height="400" />
6 PM – 10 PM Until Christmas
<br />It’s located at the intersection of Lubao and Oxnard Streets (by Pierce Collage) in Woodland Hills. The closest exit is Winnetka, off of the 101 freeway.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Dodger_Stadium-_Holidays_2021.png" width="1250" height="703" />
Dodgers Holiday Festival
The event includes light displays, interactive light installation, including light tunnels, ice skating and photos with Santa Claus, through Dec. 31 (with some dates excluded). Hours: 5-10 p.m. weekdays; 3-10 p.m. weekends. Admission must be purchased in advance and is by time. Admission $16 and up. Special activities are also by time and must be purchased in advance: ice skating $20; photos with Santa Claus in the bullpen, $40. Parking $12 online or $15 at the gate; $20 preferred parking. Entry for parking is through Sunset Gate A. Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles.
Details, important facts and to purchase admission here: <a href="http://atmlb.com/3HLKgux">atmlb.com/3HLKgux</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/enchanted_.png" width="1500" height="921" />
Enchanted Forest of Light
Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles, featuring a one-mile walk through unique lighting experiences in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens.
New this year will be an entire town of magical stained glass creations built in the Rose Garden by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin. Popular returning favorites returning include sparkling, swirling installations from HYBYCOZO on the Main Lawn, Flower Power on the Promenade, and exquisite lighting effects in the Ancient Forest.
Please note: Descanso Gardens is following current LA County Health Guidelines. Masks must be worn in indoor spaces and proof of vaccine is not required.<br />Enchanted is a rain-or-shine event. Tickets are non-refundable, have timed entry, and must be purchased in advance.
<br />Dates: Nov. 21 – Jan. 9 (Closed Nov. 25, Dec. 24 & 25), open 5:30–10pm
Entry times: 5:30pm, 6pm, 6:30pm, 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm & 8:30pm<br />Tickets: $25–$28 for Descanso Gardens members, $32–$35 for non-members<br />Phone: (818) 949-4200
<a href="https://www.descansogardens.org/programs-events/enchanted/" target="_blank">Purchase Tickets</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/snow_n_glow_1.png" width="1100" height="1096" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/snow_n_glow_2.png" width="1000" height="996" />
<a href="https://www.descansogardens.org/programs-events/enchanted/" target="_blank">Snow N Glow </a>
Gather your family and friends and get ready to have FUN at the new Snow N Glow Holiday Festival, in Del Mar and Ventura!
Snow tubing, over 1 million glowing lights, s'mores, toasty drinks, and so much more!
<a href="https://www.snownglow.com/" target="_blank">www.snownglow.com</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/yuletide.png" width="1994" height="608" />
<a href="https://www.snownglow.com/" target="_blank">Yuletide Cinemaland </a>
Street Food Cinema has put together a series of outdoor holiday screenings in the closest thing to a Dickensian town square in L.A.: Heritage Square. In between Victorian home tours, piano sing-alongs, strolls through a light tunnel and sips on hot chocolate, mulled wine and craft beer, you can catch screenings of flicks (showing twice each night, at 6 and 8pm) like Elf, Home Alone, A Christmas Carol and more. Just make sure to bundle up in your best Christmas sweater.
Join Street Food Cinema at Heritage Square Museum for a festive experience, featuring holiday movies, food trucks, mulled wine, sing-alongs, Santa meet & greets, Victorian home tours and more. Select dates through Dec. 26.
<a href="https://streetfoodcinema.com/schedule/los-angeles/" target="_blank">streetfoodcinema.com/schedule/los-angeles</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/godfrey.png" width="774" height="1030" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/godfrey_2.png" width="770" height="1058" />
<a href="https://streetfoodcinema.com/schedule/los-angeles/" target="_blank">Holiday Gingerbread Bar at the Godfrey Hotel</a>
Enjoy holiday cocktails and sweets at the life-size gingerbread house pop-up at the Godfrey Hotel’s rooftop bar.
Experience a life-size gingerbread house at the Godfrey Hotel, whose rooftop bar I|O will have its central bar decked out in decorative gingerbread, royal icing and candy canes from December 18 through the end of the year.
<a href="https://www.opentable.com/r/alk-plus-io-at-the-godfrey-hotel-hollywood-los-angeles" target="_blank">Buy Tickets </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/zoo.png" width="1200" height="793" />
The L.A. Zoo
L.A. Zoo Lights returns for the 2021-22 season and we’re glad to welcome you back with more glowing animals and an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes the world’s largest illuminated pop-up storybook, a magical disco ball forest, giant glittering snowflakes, and a twinkling tunnel filled with dynamic swirls of color. L.A. Zoo Lights is a not-to-be-missed holiday light experience and has glowed brighter each year since its debut in 2014. This year’s event features more light animals than ever before, spectacular new additions – both hand-crafted and high-tech – and returning favorites.
NOVEMBER 19, 2021 – JANUARY 9, 2022<br />6:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Closed November 25 (Thanksgiving Day), December 24 (Christmas Eve) and December 25 (Christmas Day)<br /><br />This is a rain or shine event.
<a href="https://www.lazoo.org/plan-your-visit/special-experiences/zoolights/" target="_blank">Plan Your Visit </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/eve.png" width="1800" height="799" />
<a href="https://www.lazoo.org/plan-your-visit/special-experiences/zoolights/" target="_blank">EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood</a>
Party hubs with a different music theme, a countdown to midnight and fireworks, 9 p.m. Dec. 31 to 2 a.m. Jan. 1. EVE is included in all park admissions on Dec. 31. Tickets $134; “Express” options available. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City.
<a href="http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us">www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/stag.png" width="1440" height="876" />
Golden Stag New Year’s Eve Ball
Join in an evening with costumed characters, dancers, live music and photo ops, 9 p.m. Dec. 31. Minimum age: 21. Dress code: “dress to impress” or attire inspired by the 20s, 30s, or 40s is encouraged. Tickets $100; $176 “Speakeasy VIP Access” (includes 8 p.m. entry and password to the recently discovered real speakeasy bar area at the hotel); $801 “Gold Reserve Table VIP Access” (early entry for four; see details on the website). The Historic Biltmore Hotel, 506 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles.
<a href="http://www.goldenstagnye.com/">www.goldenstagnye.com</a>2021-12-17T09:52:00-07:002021-12-21T10:18:36-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16793Drop off your winter clothing and canned goods at the Frontgate Real Estate office during the Holidays through January 2022<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/IMG_1718.JPG" width="2300" height="1725" /></a>
Frontgate Real Estate has joined with <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/" target="_blank">Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission</a> again this Holiday season and into the New Year to give back to local residents in need of winter clothing and canned goods.
The Frontgate Team welcomes all of our friends and family to give the gift of warmth and food for those in need from now through January 2022.
Donation Drop off Location
Drop off any gently used winter wear and canned goods at our Frontgate Real Estate office off of Mulholland and Valley Circle right outside the gates of Hidden Hills on Long Valley Road. The Frontgate Team has provided large bins outside of our office for local residents and beyond to drop off any unneeded winter items at their leisure.
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group Office
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
Drop off Dates
December 15th, 2021 - January 31st, 2022
Drop Off Wish Lists
Please see the Hope of the Valley wish lists below for a list items that will help those in need greatly during these colder months.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/winter_clothing.png" width="1650" height="610" /></a>
Winter Item Wish List
Cold weather jackets/coats
Socks
New underwear in all sizes
Sweatshirts
Gloves & scarfs
Blankets
Thermals
Gently used boots
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/food pantry -12-20_at_2.26.26_PM.png" width="1238" height="826" /></a>
Food Pantry Wish List
Ground Coffee
Cereal individual packs
Individual snack items (chips, granola bars, nuts, trail mix etc...)
Sugar
Creamer
Chicken/ beef stock/Veggie stock
Pasta
Gluten Free pasta
Rice
Brown rice
Pancake mix
Pancake syrup
Pudding snack packs
Marinara sauce
Tomato sauce
Diced tomato
Canned fruit
Canned vegetables
Canned soups
Canned tuna
Salad dressing
Enchilada sauce
Ketchup/mayo/mustard/relish packets
Cooking oil
Peanut butter
Jelly/Jam
Dry shelf- Almond milk
Dry shelf- Soy milk
Sweetened Ice tea powder mix
Lemonade powder mix
Kool aid powder mix
Fruit cups individual packs
Chips 1oz. Bags individual packs
Cereal/granola Bars individual packs
Trail mix individual packs
Items NOT Needed
Cranberry sauce
Decaf Coffee
Bread
Cookies
Baby food
Candy
Crackers
Pumpkin purée
Thank you all and wishing all of you a happy and healthy 2022!
Dana, Jeff, and The Frontgate Team
CONTACT INFORMATION
For Charity Drop off Questions, Contact the Frontgate Team
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/">Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes Team | Frontgate Real Estate</a>
Contact <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/testimonials">Jeff and Dana</a> and the Frontgate Real Estate team
(747) 888-0508
<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/gtb/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/images.png" width="384" height="131" /></a>
For More Information About Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission
Contact <a href="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org">Hope of the Valley</a> Rescue Mission
Telephone: <a href="tel:818-392-0020">(818) 392-0020</a> Email: <a href="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org">info@hopeofthevalley.org</a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/HH_Gate1_EDITED.png" width="1350" height="561" /></a>
2021-12-14T06:33:00-07:002021-12-20T17:34:00-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16767Holiday Road Immersive Experience at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas<a href="https://holidayroadusa.com/location-la/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Holiday-Road-Los-Angeles-CA-Installation.jpg" width="1000" height="1000" /></a>
About Holiday Road
The team behind <a href="https://www.dailynews.com/2021/10/06/inside-the-halloween-themed-nights-of-the-jack-and-its-thousands-of-carved-pumpkins-in-calabasas/">the Nights of the Jack Halloween event</a> at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas announced the return of its Holiday Road as an immersive walk-thru experience.
Last year, Holiday Road was reimagined as a drive-thru event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, it’s back to being a walk-thru experience with thousands of lights, larger-than-life holiday-themed installations and more festive fare for all ages.
Guests can cruise through a Christmas tree forest, dance through Gingerbread Lane, hang out in the Elf Village and get jolly with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole.
Holiay Road Schedule
Holiday Road will be open from 5-10 p.m. most evenings starting Friday, Dec. 3 through Friday, Dec. 31.
Tickets are $34.99-$64.99 and are on sale now at <a href="https://holidayroadusa.com/location-la/">holidayroadusa.com</a>. Advance ticket purchase is required for the different time slots to avoid overcrowding and allow for social distancing.
The trail is two-thirds a mile long and is self-guided; guests can walk at their own pace. There’s a pre- and post-show area that includes a dozen food trucks, full bars with seasonal cocktails and holiday-themed shopping and photo backdrops and props.
Purchase Tickets to King Gillette Ranch
Visit <a href="https://holidayroadusa.com/location-la/" target="_blank">Holiday Road LA</a> for more information and to purchase tickets.
<a href="https://holidayroadusa.com/location-la/#calendar" target="_blank">BUY TICKETS</a> TO HOLIDAY ROAD CALABASAS
For more details on Local Events, contact the Frontgate Team:
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
(747) 888-0508
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HolidayRoadUSA/videos/1849435385241513" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Holiday_Road_Video.png" width="1280" height="720" /></a>
<a href="https://holidayroadusa.com/location-la/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/LDN-L-HOLIDAYROAD-1028.jpg" width="1569" height="1045" /></a>
<a href="https://holidayroadusa.com/location-la/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/atlimages.jpg" width="1920" height="475" /></a>2021-12-13T08:17:00-07:002021-12-17T08:54:23-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16656The Rise of Ancillary Living Spaces in Estate HomesIn today’s new world of social distancing, the landscape of work environments has shifted where work and creativity has found it’s way into residences across the globe- and estate homes are no exception. As families and individuals alike merge their work and school demands into their primary homes - demand for ample square footage, privacy, and versatility within their living space has grown to an all time high. Ancillary living spaces are now at the forefront of estate living and have found their way into larger estate homes that provide the luxury of space and variety as many retreat into their private homes.
What is an Ancillary Living Space?
Ancillary spaces are spaces that help support the main function of a building. Traditionally in an office setting, ancillary spaces are communal, unassigned spaces that can include areas like lounges, outdoor living spaces, private enclaves, and a variety of collaborative spaces.
The modern home office is now considered an ancillary living space- a multipurpose room that can be used for work, relaxation and/or entertainment. The key to making this type of living space work for you is to make sure the design is functional and comfortable.
Because of Covid 19, college students and young adults are returning home after leaving the nest to live with their families while taking online courses or working remotely. As a result, there has been an increase in ancillary living spaces found within homes.
The elderly are now moving in with family vs nursing homes.
- The number of people aged 85 and older is projected to more than double by 2050, from about six million now to 14 million.
- The percentage of elderly Americans who live with family members has increased from 28 percent in 1990 to 43 percent in 2010.
- The average stay in a nursing home has increased from about two years in the 1970s to more than three years today.
- The annual cost of a private room in a nursing home is now more than $87,000, and the average monthly cost for a shared room is more than $6000.
The rise of ancillary living spaces allow elderly to live with family and have their needs met without the high cost of a nursing home.
When designing your ancillary living space, start by thinking about how you will use the room. Will it be your primary work space or will you only use it for occasional tasks? If it’s your primary work space, do you need a lot of storage for supplies and files? Do you need a desk that can be easily adjusted to different heights or one with multiple surfaces so you can multi-task easily? Will you need to fit multiple people in the room for meetings or will it only be used by yourself on most days? The type of design and layout that works best for your daily routine should inform the way you choose seating, storage options and lighting.
If this space is going to double as a guest bedroom or entertainment area, make sure the design is conducive to these activities. The last thing you want is a chair that isn’t comfortable for overnight guests or built-ins that are difficult to navigate around while hosting large gatherings. The best way to make sure this space works for your multi-purpose needs, whether it be work related or entertainment purposes, is by carefully considering the layout and design.
Functional, comfortable and versatile- these are the key features of an ancillary living space that will make your work and home life easier. By taking the time to design your space thoughtfully, you can create a room that is perfect for your needs.
Ancillary Space in A Hidden Hills Estate
The private wing of <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/properties/hidden-hills-manor">25045 Jim Bridger Road</a> in the prestigious Hidden Hills is a perfect example of ancillary living where the private enclave can serve a multitude of purposes from guest living quarters, private library, craft room, and many other endless possibilities for businessmen, entrepreneurs, stay at home parents, and hobbyists alike.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Screen_Shot_2021-12-13_at_7.32.27_AM.jpg" width="1728" height="1008" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/46.jpg" width="1920" height="1234" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Joel-April27Project-Office-staged-SA.jpg" width="2000" height="1331" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/SecondLiving-stagedv2_1.jpg" width="2000" height="1331" />
<a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/properties/hidden-hills-manor">25045 Jim Bridger Road</a> has a guest apartment or workspace with a separate entrance above the garage. Also, a one-bedroom guest house adjacent to the pool
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/file/Screen_Shot_2021-12-13_at_7.41.05_AM.jpg" width="2776" height="1866" />
The Future of Work and Home Living Spaces
The demands of commuting and working within commercial buildings have slowed in today’s global business scene. At <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/">Frontgate Real Estate</a>, we are seeing a variety of residences and buyers alike looking to find reprieve in homes that serve a wide variety of utility in our ever-changing world. From musical artists creating vanity spaces and recording studios, to functional estate home office spaces for work from home entrepreneurs- the utilization of private homes and estates to achieve collaborative work, propel creativity, and cultivate the complex family demands within their own private enclaves will continue to grow.2021-12-09T22:21:00-07:002021-12-13T08:47:38-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16593Frontgate Real Estate Presents a Sophisticated Hollywood Home Above the Sunset Strip
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21789952/1853-sunset-plaza-dr-los-angeles-ca-90069/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Sunset_Plaza_1.jpg" width="800" height="532" /></a>
This dream home offers everything you can desire in living the Hollywood Hills lifestyle. From luxurious bathrooms with Boffi vanities and fixtures to electronic shades for your windows; Perfect for entertaining and enjoying the lifestyle of the Sunset Strip.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21789952/1853-sunset-plaza-dr-los-angeles-ca-90069/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Sunset_Plaza_Frontgate_Real_Estate.jpg" width="1920" height="947" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21789952/1853-sunset-plaza-dr-los-angeles-ca-90069/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Sunset_Plaza_2.jpg" width="800" height="533" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21789952/1853-sunset-plaza-dr-los-angeles-ca-90069/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Sunset_Plaza_4.jpg" width="800" height="533" /></a>2021-12-04T09:01:00-07:002021-12-07T09:21:24-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16524Valuable Resources for Showing and Selling Your Home During COVID-19<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Real_Estate_Selling_Home_Covid_Safety.jpg" width="800" height="533" />
If your home is currently on the market, you’re probably still anxious to take precautions to avoid COVID-19 exposure. <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/If your home is currently on the market, you’re probably still anxious to take precautions to avoid COVID-19 exposure. Frontgate Real Estate has gathered a variety of resources packed with useful information to answer all your queries about selling your home during a pandemic." target="_blank">Frontgate Real Estate</a> has gathered a variety of resources packed with useful information to answer all your queries about selling your home during a pandemic.
Getting Your Home Ready
Get familiar with the basic principles of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=D&q=https://www.photoup.net/photography-basics-for-real-estate-photographers/&ust=1643763060000000&usg=AOvVaw2O0da6ccaaamUtk9LOHNrC&hl=en&source=gmail" target="_blank">real estate photography</a>.
Make sure that the interior and exterior of your home are perfectly staged or hire an interior designer to create a staged virtual rendering of your home
Seek the assistance of<a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/about" target="_blank"> knowledgeable realtors</a> like those at Frontgate Real Estate who understand the local real estate market.
In addition to the assistance you’ll get from your realtor in marketing your home, you can share your listing on social media. Make it look more attractive and professional with a custom logo by using an <a href="https://www.adobe.com/express/create/logo" target="_blank">online logo maker</a>. Adobe’s tool allows you to use thousands of logos and templates to customize your own logo that features your property.
How to Host Safe Showings
Follow certain <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/coronavirus/guide-for-realtors" target="_blank">hygiene protocols</a> to keep you and your guests safe if you schedule an in-person showing.
Even if you’re scheduling a virtual tour, spend some time <a href="https://toolreviewlab.com/2020/04/06/curb-appeal-on-a-budget-make-a-first-impression-to-attract-house-hunters/" target="_blank">sprucing up</a> your front porch and backyard to boost your home’s curb appeal because buyers will want to see them on camera!
If a prospective buyer wants to chat with you before a tour, you can easily meet with them using <a href="https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=9661" target="_blank">Zoom</a> or another video chatting platform.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home
Once your guests leave, be proactive about <a href="https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=9661" target="_blank">washing your hands</a> right away.
Use household cleaning <a href="https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/chemicals/what-disinfectants-and-cleaning-products-kill-coronavirus-covid-19/" target="_blank">products</a> that are proven to kill COVID-19.
Learn the proper <a href="https://cleaningproductreviews.info/coronavirus-cleaning-tips-to-keep-your-home-free-of-covid-19/" target="_blank">techniques </a>for thoroughly cleaning every nook and cranny of your home.
As a home seller, you likely did not anticipate facing these setbacks when you decided to put your house on the market. But if you still need to relocate, you do not have to hold on to your property until the pandemic is over. By altering your approach, you can work with your real estate agent to find an eager buyer!2021-11-18T07:00:00-07:002022-01-31T18:00:55-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16592Frontgate Real Estate Among the Top 1% in the US by Wall Street Journal
We are among the top 1% in the US by <a href="https://www.wsj.com/news/realestate" target="_blank">Wall Street Journal </a>with a combined 45 years of real estate expertise. At Frontgate Real Estate we are proud to provide our community with fanatical integrity along with our global marketing and technology expertise.<br /><br />
Visit the Frontgate Real Estate Team On <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZLcOf1H__8" target="_blank">Youtube</a>:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZLcOf1H__8"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Youtube_Wall_Street_Journal.png" width="800" height="450" /></a>2021-11-16T07:00:00-07:002021-12-07T08:59:34-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16297Provide a Thanksgiving Feast for Those in Need with Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/gtb/" target="_parent"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Sponsor.a_Table_Hope_for_the_Valley_Frontgate_Real_Estate.jpg" width="600" height="260" /></a>
Every year <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/gtb/" target="_blank">Hope of the Valley</a> has hosted the Valley’s largest Thanksgiving meal for the Homeless since 2009.
This year, they are in need of 230 Generous Table Sponsors to help underwrite the expense and make this event successful. All donors’ names will be noted on the virtual table diagram for each of our shelters. The diagram will be prominently displayed on our website, sent to nearly 50,000 donors and shared on Facebook and other social media platforms.
Due to a number of our shelter sites being quarantined due to positive Covid-19 tests, out of an abundance of caution they will not utilize volunteers this year but will feed the same number of people!
Each table sponsorship is $350.00.
Please help <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/gtb/" target="_blank">Hope of the Valley </a>secure the food, prepare the meal and serve the best Thanksgiving Feast to those most in need. Please remember the poor, the hungry and homeless this Thanksgiving Season. Help Hope of the Valley provide a Thanksgiving Feast to our brothers and sisters who have fallen on hard times.
Click the button below and Sponsor a Table today:
<a href="https://give.hopeofthevalley.org/donate/Donate.aspx?FormId=6900a1cd-7194-4402-884f-e6f15650beeb&_ga=2.31780094.1164088151.1637003248-1333635122.1635788679" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/sponsor_a_table.png" width="594" height="194" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/gtb/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Great-Thanksgiving-Banquet.jpg" width="1058" height="1058" /></a>
Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that relies on private, tax-deductible donations to feed, shelter and care for our community's poor, hungry and homeless men, women and children.<br /><br />No third parties will have access to your information.
<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/gtb/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/GTB-Sponsor-Table-15NOV2021.png" width="2500" height="5313" /></a>
Frontgate Real Estate has been passionate about this wonderful local organization for years. If you have any questions on getting involved please contact <a href="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org" target="_blank">Hope of the Valley</a> or the <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank">Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes Team | Frontgate Real Estate</a> for more information.
HOPE OF THE VALLEY CONTACT INFO
Telephone: <a href="tel:818-392-0020">(818) 392-0020</a> Email: <a href="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org">info@hopeofthevalley.org</a>
LOCATION
16641 Roscoe Place; North Hills, CA 913432021-11-15T19:27:00-07:002021-11-16T10:01:29-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16298Support Tiny Home Villages Providing Shelter Throughout The San Fernando Valley <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ke7IESGtXA" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Hope_for_the_Valley.jpg" width="990" height="932" /></a>
About Tiny Homes
We exist to prevent, reduce and eliminate poverty, hunger and homelessness by offering immediate assistance and long term solutions.
<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/" target="_blank">Hope of the Valley</a> is inviting community members to support the Tiny Home Villages. The donation is designed to assist Hope of the Valley with the operational costs* of the site.
Hope of the Valley, founded in the summer of 2009, now operates 13 Shelters, 2 Access Centers and a Job Center. They currently provide 1,040 beds per night at our various shelters throughout the San Fernando Valley housing single adults, families and transitional age youth. They currently serve approximately 1,500 meals per day and 547,500 meals annually.
The Tiny Homes are really amazing. Each one is 64 sq. ft. in size, has two beds, heat, air-conditioning, windows, a small desk and a front door! Meals, showers, case management, housing navigation, mental health, job training and placement will be provided.
Help Make Homeless History!
<a href="https://give.hopeofthevalley.org/Donate/Donate.aspx?FormId=f7473583-5ec1-434f-aa25-06a68339fc1d" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Sponsor_a_Home.png" width="588" height="192" /></a>
<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Tiny-Home-Quote.jpg" width="1600" height="600" /></a>
The <a href="http://www.hopeofthevalley.org/Alexandria">Chandler Blvd. Tiny Home Village</a> opened February 2021 and has 39 homes and 85 beds. <a href="http://www.hopeofthevalley.org/alexandria">Alexandria Park</a> opened May 2021 and has 103 homes and 200 beds. <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/reseda/">Reseda</a> opened in June 2021 and has 52 homes and 101 beds. <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/tarzana/">Tarzana</a> opened in July 2021 with 78 homes and 148 beds.<a href="http://www.hopeofthevalley.org/whitsett"> Whitsett West</a> opened in August of 2021 with 77 homes and 150 beds. <a href="http://www.hopeofthevalley.org/arroyoseco">Arroyo Seco Tiny Home Village</a> opened in November of 2021 with 117 homes and 224 beds. In 2021 we have already added 908 beds to our existing 506 beds! And… there is much more growth and expansion planned for the rest of the year as we strive to bring inside our unhoused neighbors.
In February of 2021, Hope of the Valley launched the very first Tiny Home Village in the City of Los Angeles, <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/chandler/">Chandler Blvd. Tiny Home Village</a> in North Hollywood. Since it opened the City of Los Angeles has built and funded five more Tiny Home Villages: <a href="http://hopeofthevalley.org/Alexandria">Alexandria Park</a>(NoHo), <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/tarzana/">Tarzana Sun Flower Cabin Community</a>, <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/reseda/">Reseda Cabin Community</a>, <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/whitsett/">Whitsett West</a> (NoHo) and <a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/arroyoseco/">Arroyo Seco</a> (Highland Park). With many thanks to Councilmen Paul Krekorian, John Lee, Bob Blumenfield, Kevin De Leòn and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti these Tiny Home Villages are changing the face of homelessness throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area.
<a href="https://www.hopeofthevalley.org/tinyhomes/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Tiny_Hope.jpg" width="647" height="283" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a>
Frontgate Real Estate has been passionate about this wonderful local organization for years. If you have any questions on getting involved please contact <a href="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="exc" aria-label="send an email to info@hopeofthevalley.org" uw-rm-vague-link-id="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org$send an email to info@hopeofthevalley.org" data-uw-rm-vglnk="">Hope of the Valley</a> or the <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes Team | Frontgate Real Estate - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/$dana&jeffluxuryhomesteam|frontgaterealestate">Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes Team | Frontgate Real Estate</a> for more information.
CONTACT HOPE OF THE VALLEY
Telephone: <a href="tel:818-392-0020">(818) 392-0020</a> Email: <a href="mailto:info@hopeofthevalley.org">info@hopeofthevalley.org</a>
2021-11-14T19:32:00-07:002021-12-01T19:02:55-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16330 Frontgate Real Estate's Calabasas Gated Property Featured on Wall Street Journal<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21798314/26043-mulholland-hwy-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/FEATURED_ON_3_2.PNG" width="1080" height="1080" /></a>
Sited on an acre + of land is this magical gated estate property just minutes from Malibu. As you pass through the impressive gated entrance you will find this expansive pad ready to be developed. Property features include towering trees, swimming pool and pavilion, expansive lawn and landscaped garden areas.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21798314/26043-mulholland-hwy-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FI10SNDBkhYV7-vpyYd6eESKjrwBhxvy9vNA3GxEQItJ8gxxTs3UKD5FmUDgqe9XxU0w2LLg_gU6uwk4Hjwf0tdZmvj_TV5PLOIUltuhR4L-tCfsfWnSVFYUqy-OBxhNyF9dPZ4k" width="624" height="468" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21798314/26043-mulholland-hwy-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qcSkLL7loB7ncRLjFeWOkNr8F_HgsSxuRIGCj_JDGYU5g3V0Ojl8DjWUeOK09PE90mWd6-U7olMzTnT9sskpZsKUYZMP0S-NHcoND8g1GdUL8We5F6bdlyPhGemUBS2K6cbdzFYt" width="624" height="468" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21798314/26043-mulholland-hwy-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/6mb-QpQWGFXGiDTgZWaozg1LzMkifZxipg5VkT7aMuMI70_2nibxrzurGWZs5IsxoGmaa2TGSDRdzVyxssRHnxvZVN4kgWxptCpSLLevs_8qXl4xjdXczWfvTVki30EErMC4F48Y" width="624" height="303" /></a>
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21798314/26043-mulholland-hwy-calabasas-ca-91302/" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/OMC6AEj62BWaIODOCLdAvV8neAp_5hThRAqPZ9KPN9fQ9iYDu8loiotswZ-OfV3ZnNePmicGzOrzB55Z4ZuHvEbFQ6Di7DisComXpFbV62kt0jywySJmEcsS63aLnk8W8MnlVJO8" width="624" height="351" /></a>
26043 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas
<a href="http://Frontgaterealestate.com">Frontgaterealestate.com</a>
DanaAndJeffLuxuryHomes.com
Co-listed with: Amy Bitton | KW Encino- Sherman Oaks 2021-11-13T22:19:00-07:002021-11-17T22:39:33-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16266Newest Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Cast Member Purchases $13 Million Hidden Hills Mansion After Selling $87 Million Malibu Estate
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/featured-listings/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/diana_jenkins_house_frontgate_real_estate.png" width="680" height="383" /></a>
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” newest cast member <a href="https://www.dirt.com/moguls/power-players/diana-jenkins-house-malibu-1203323454/">Diana Jenkins</a> previously long resided in Malibu before selling <a href="https://www.dirt.com/gallery/moguls/tech/jan-koum-house-malibu-1203365405/">her $87 million home</a>, earlier this year and has since dropped $13 million on a smaller estate in the guard-gated Hidden Hills community, deep in L.A.’s San Fernando Valley.
The 48-year-old and longtime socialite of Bravo’s hit TV show gained her wealth from her marriage to famed English financier <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2180471/The-happiest-divorce-British-banker-gives-brilliant-Bosnian-ex-wife-150m--shes-thrilled-hes-dating-supermodel.html">Roger “Big Dog” Jenkins</a>, who was at one time the highest-paid banker in all of Britain. The couple divorced in 2012 and Diana was awarded full ownership of the couple’s Malibu estate atop gorgeous Paradise Cove.
The 13,000 square foot mansion is located at the very end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the prestigious Ashley Ridge section of Hidden Hills.
This house is an architectural wonder. The charcoal-colored structure boasts double height foyer, so called “floating” staircase and chevron patterned oak floors throughout the rest of this great room linking up with its gourmet kitchen which features two stone islands as well as top notch appliances!
Sweeping views take in the surrounding hills, and the dark-bottomed swimming pool out back is infinity-edged for maximum visual drama. Jenkins’ new home also lies directly across the street from <a href="https://www.dirt.com/entertainers/actors/lori-loughlin-house-hidden-hills-1203332504/">the $9.5 million main residence</a> of Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli, Khloe Kardashian, and Kris Jenner.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/featured-listings/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/diana_dana_and_jeff_frontgate_real_estate.jpg" width="1021" height="625" /></a>
Frontgate Real Estate | <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank">Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group</a>
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 913022021-11-11T11:49:00-07:002021-11-16T07:46:23-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:162645 Projects To Boost Your Home's Value and Selling Speed<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/frontgate_real_estate_how_to_sell_your_home.jpg" width="1600" height="1071" />
Selling your home can be a long and stressful process. If you lay the right groundwork and get a good agent, though, you can sell it more quickly at a higher price. Check out these tips for increasing your selling price while decreasing your house's time on the market.
1. Boost Curb Appeal
The first thing people see when they’re looking at your home is how it looks from the outside. This extends to your yard, driveway and other outdoor spaces, and you need to make a great first impression with these if you want your home to sell quickly at a good price. Consider your <a href="https://www.legacylandtrust.org/what-is-curb-appeal-and-why-does-it-matter-tips-for-sprucing-up-your-homes-exterior/">curb appeal</a> and make an honest assessment of where your home could use outside improvements.
Professional landscaping is an invaluable tool in increasing the property value of your home. Search online to find local <a href="https://www.angi.com/companylist/los-angeles/landscaping.htm">landscape companies</a> and to see which ones have great reviews and reasonable prices. Many companies will offer deals or promotions from time to time, so check to see if any might apply to your situation.
Many <a href="https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/outdoor-spaces/instant-curb-appeal-for-less-than-100-pictures">low-cost practices</a> can boost your property value, as well. Painting your front door a striking color can change the entire look of your house and give it a unique focal point. Adding curtains or a swing to a front porch can have a dramatic effect on a home’s appearance. Even smaller items such as replacing your house numbers with more modern numerals or upgrading your mailbox can have a noticeable effect.
2. Make Your Home Smart
As <a href="https://www.diysmarthomesolutions.com/can-smart-home-automation-increase-home-values/">smart technology</a> becomes more integrated into everyday life, the demand for smart technology in the home is increasing. Potential buyers may get a thrill when they see their new home has smart options. Smart home items don’t have to break the bank, either. There are many <a href="https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-cheap-smart-home-devices">affordable options</a>, such as smart plugs and lightbulbs, that can have a big impact with little cost.
3. Deep Clean
Buyers are looking for blank slates that they can build their lives in, and the last thing they want to see in a potential home is off-putting dirt and grime. Hire a professional cleaner to give your home the attention it needs. A <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/real-estate-top-agent-insights-survey-q1-2019.pdf">report</a> from HomeLight showed that a quality deep clean could add over $1,700 to your home’s sale price, so it’s an investment worth making.
4. Spruce Up the Kitchen
Many homeowners consider the kitchen the central room of a house, so if yours is outdated or cluttered, <a href="https://jennakateathome.com/update-your-kitchen-without-remodeling/">making some improvements</a> can have a serious impact. Painting cabinets and updating hardware are relatively easy ways to change the look of a kitchen, and replacing outdated appliances can get you big returns in sales price.
5. Create an Accent Wall
Repainting a whole room can be time-consuming but creating an <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/15-stunning-accent-wall-ideas-you-can-do/">accent wall</a> is a relatively cheap and quick way to revive a room that needs updating. Consider painting it a color that complements the décor or trim that will be there when you go to sell. If you’d prefer not to have a single color, opt for wallpaper in a fun print that works well with the theme of the room. Choose a peel and stick variety for easy application and removal if rearranging is necessary.
Sell your home quickly at a great price by putting strategic work into it before listing it with an experienced real estate agent from <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/">Frontgate Real Estate</a>. By paying special attention to curb appeal and indoor details that give great returns on investment, you'll give your home the best chance of getting the price it deserves.
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
Contact <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/testimonials">Jeff and Dana</a> and the Frontgate Real Estate team
(747) 888-0508
<br />
Author: Bob Shannon
2021-11-08T11:32:00-07:002021-11-12T07:11:37-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16265Frontgate Real Estate Presents Woodland Hills Charm in Prestigious Vista de Oro
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Located in the prestigious Vista de Oro neighborhood of Woodland hills, this single-story home is set above the street offering ultimate privacy. Featuring six bedrooms and four baths, the home boasts a ton of natural light that floods throughout the open floor plan with approximately 2,800 square feet of living space.
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The chef’s kitchen is complete with granite counter tops, custom cabinetry, Gaggenau induction cooktop with built-in downdraft, stainless steel appliances including a convection oven, subzero refrigerator and a two drawer dishwasher. Other amenities include ample storage, newer roof, solar, newer HVAC system, all dual pane windows and sliders, double insulation in the attic with attic fan, smart garage door openers and WIFI capable sprinkler controller, plentiful fruit trees and so much more.
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The expanded master suite is a tranquil retreat with sliding glass doors that lead to the secluded lush yard and private access to the cobalt blue mosaic tile pool. The inviting master bath offers a separate tub, large walk-in shower and double vanity.
Price: $1,795,000
Address: 4760 Poe Avenue Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Agent: <a href="https://tararose.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank">Tara Rose </a>of Frontgate
For more on this listing, <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/properties/4706-poe-avenue" target="_blank">click here</a>.
As seen on<a href="https://californialistings.com/" target="_blank"> California Listings</a>2021-11-05T10:59:00-07:002021-11-12T07:19:10-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16218Tips for Selling Your Home During the Holidays<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Real_Estate_Selling_Home_Holidays_2.jpg" width="1600" height="1060" />
If you need to sell your house during the holidays, you may find yourself wondering if it’s worth it. The answer is definitely “yes.” According to Go Prime Mortgage, buyers who look at new homes this time of year are <a href="https://www.goprime.com/blog/10-reasons-to-list-your-home-in-winter/">considerably motivated</a>, so any eyes on your property might be a potential sale. There is also less competition, since many agents wait until spring to list new properties.
The caveat? If your holidays are incredibly hectic and you don’t need to sell your house as soon as possible, there’s nothing wrong with packing it up for a couple of months and putting it back on the market after the new year.
But if you want to move this house as soon as you can, you will want to make sure your home is ready to sell. And <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/">Frontgate Real Estate</a> explains how to make it happen.
To decorate or not to decorate? That is the question.
If you never really liked decorating for the holidays, good news! This year you can ease off the tradition. A house on the market needs to be like a blank canvas, so a potential buyer can envision living there. Holiday decorations are often very personal, because they display family traditions. Seeing too much personality around the house can be off-putting to a potential buyer. It can give the impression of too much work needing to be done before they’d be able to call it their own.
On the other hand, tasteful Christmas lights can brighten up a space, and the <a href="https://blog.lakeside.com/2020/01/30/how-to-make-a-small-room-look-bigger/">extra lighting</a> can make a room look bigger.
While you should never try to cover up smells with air fresheners, because it makes it seem like you’re trying to mask a smell, you can use holiday <a href="https://www.2-10.com/blog/5-scents-that-help-sell-house/">scents to your advantage</a>, like the smell of cinnamon, vanilla or pine.
The name of the game is clean.
When showing your house, every room needs to be in top form-- that means as clean as possible. With all of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you probably do not have time to deep clean the entire house every week, keeping it ready for showings. To help out, hire a housecleaner to come during the holidays. It will lift that burden off your shoulders.
If you don’t think a housekeeper is in your budget, think again. In areas like greater Los Angeles, for instance, the average price to clean a house’s interior runs around <a href="https://housekeeper.com/house-cleaner-cost-los-angeles">$22 to $30 per hour</a>. That’s a small price to pay for the chance of finally selling your home before the new year.
Staging Your Home During the Holidays
While decorating with your personal things should be off the table, there’s some benefit to <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/30-cant-miss-home-staging-tips">staging your house</a> for showings with a little bit of holiday flare.
Create non-denominational, winter-themed centerpieces and/or wreaths with pine cones, frost-covered flowers, or evergreen branches. Check out <a href="https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/g2921/winter-decorating-ideas/">these suggestions</a> from Country Living.
Light candles that bring a warm glow into the room
<a href="https://theclose.com/open-house-foods-ideas/">Set out refreshments</a> festive napkins next to any leaflets, flyers, or handouts.
A Little Extra Marketing
It’s true that your Frontgate Real Estate agent will handle marketing your home, but if you feel the need to supplement this, you can turn to social media and other outlets to spread the word. This can be particularly helpful if you need to sell quickly. As long as you and your agent agree on the look and methodology, come up with eye-catching posts or well-designed Instagram stories. While FaceBook is a great avenue for reaching out to old friends who may be interested, don’t underestimate looking up friends from high school. Sites like ClassFinders make it easy to <a href="https://www.classfinders.com/directory/ca/beverly-hills/">politely reach out</a> to former classmates from the surrounding area without overstepping.
Keeping your house on the market during the holidays gives it a better chance to sell than not listing at all. Buyers this time of year are serious about finding a new home. If you choose to show during this time of year, consider hiring a housekeeper. Finally, stage your house with a little bit of holiday flare to help make your place feel warm, homey, and ready to sell.
Are you ready to list your greater Los Angeles home? Turn to the professional services of <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/">Frontgate Real Estate</a>.
Our savvy agents work hard to help you get the price you’re looking for.
Call us today to find out more! (747) 888-0508
Author: Charles Simmons
Image via <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/VXlUgmI6ToE">Pixabay</a>
2021-11-04T08:50:00-07:002021-11-09T10:10:44-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16175As Holidays Near, Frontgate Shares How To Help the Community in Los Angeles and Ventura County<a href="https://www.westvalleyfoodpantry.org/index.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/oGgOH8zoZKSsKFLri8dI4vgl8xpDjVCUqayoO4jxL_WHSJnylAMbyxQeerM6Vl1KJN5p5mRN0s5WGUWAu74XifRNbjKqoAPcciE-Y_NDGdraY-VtA_qYlxv7NnEfbncvXruy3FV6" width="624" height="445" /></a>
Prince of Peace/West Valley Food Pantry
<a href="https://www.westvalleyfoodpantry.org/index.html">ABOUT</a>
An interfaith community supported approach to alleviating hunger.
The West Valley Food Pantry (WVFP) began in 1975 as a small closet located in the kitchen of Prince of Peace Episcopal Church (POP). The Rector at the time, Rev. Jess Taylor, began the program by asking the POP parishioners to supply the pantry with canned goods. This small pantry (and small staff consisting mainly of Margaret Shively, the church secretary) provided food to three to five families a week over the course of several years.
In 1985, Clem Matzen, a retired social worker and member of POP, developed the idea of getting other churches and synagogues to join in the effort of feeding the local hungry in the West Valley. Clem gathered ten other churches and synagogues into the formal coalition which is the West Valley Food Pantry. Creating a coalition enabled the WVFP to obtain food from the LA food bank at a substantial discount and to supplement the pantry shelves with cost-free government food contributions.
Other organizations have added their support to the WVFP. The San Fernando Valley chapter of the National Charity League (NCL) began supporting the Pantry over 25 years ago and is today one of the Pantry's largest contributors. NCL mother-daughter teams work as volunteers directly with the clients and for special programs like Christmas gifts. The coalition decided to partner with the Family Rescue Center (Rescate) in Canoga Park around 1998. As out sister pantry, Rescate distributes food received from WVFP as well as other services to many Spanish-speaking clients
CAUSE AREAS
Community<br />Crisis Support<br />Faith-Based<br />Homeless & Housing<br />Hunger
OPPORTUNITIES
You can help a few of the thousands of needy in our community that are unable to feed their families due to high unemployment and the poor economy. Donate a bag of food or write a check. Perhaps you have a surplus of vegetables from your garden or fruit trees that produce more than you need. And any donation of $1 or more to a food pantry goes a long way to help the families in need, as a dollar buys food for about 4 meals. The need is great, so we depend more on contributions and individual food drives to support our efforts
They accept unopened and unexpired food donations between these hours:
Monday through Thursday
9:00 am and 1:00 pm
Friday
9:00 am to 11:00 am.
They cannot accept food donations after these hours or on weekends. Please do not drop or leave food on the property unattended, as it will spoil and/or attract animals.
West Valley Food Pantry buys about $ 20,000 of food each month with bulk discounts from our local stores. Ralphs, Vons and Pavilions, Smart & Final, Trader Joes, Albertson's, Gelson's, Amazon Fresh, and Sprouts all support the pantry.
The average client at their pantry receives enough food for about a week's worth of meals, once each week, as we have a very limited budget that supports about 150 to 500 clients each day, 5 days a week
CONTACT
5700 Rudnick Ave
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
818-346-5554
<a href="https://www.valleyvillage.org/"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Afdmg5qmXeKyI1OtxVp0lZfcgv-sgkOQ7NZNy4ZHQBe4lq7tFgdbsHHV2s3gi66lYF-wJ_u8JaC32iNLA1uVJNBkg9MgGPEPaBtNULIEGFCvGpmFfYvRFu_s9w31c2eG6RbnKY_U" width="624" height="316" /></a>
Valley Village
ABOUT
Since 1971, Valley Village, a 501(c)3 organization, has been a leader in building transformative programs that raise the standard of care for all people with developmental disabilities in the San Fernando Valley. With over 48 years of proven successes, our hallmark approach to a continuum of care for adults with developmental challenges continues to be an effective model for providing dignity.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/E6U15sSf3lvAn-vbsmDXM287VDg-0YKV3ctxz6OSELtZPodIxwq5DHhIwd-U4YsauuX4wkOo7VhNfM0jYkJfyOhk-TUK-9EJM5z7Pf7OoJsvfM6GoBunTn1IeLMmiqGa7FVoXoc4" width="624" height="351" />
Bob Saget congratulates Valley Village on 50 years of service and shares his family story
CAUSE AREAS
Advocacy & Human Rights<br /> Arts & Culture<br /> Community<br /> Health & Medicine<br /> People with Disabilities
OPPORTUNITIES
Holiday Drive-Thru Event – Friday, December 17
The Valley Village Adult Development Center will host a Winter Wonderland Holiday Drive-Thru event on the evening of Friday, December 17, for Valley Village residents and program participants to experience the magic of the holidays. The event will feature holiday lights, decorations, music, and other surprises. Residents and participants will experience the holiday event as their care providers drive them through the Winnetka Day Program parking that volunteers will turn into a Winter Wonderland! The event will be held at 20830 Sherman Way, Winnetka, CA 91306.
Decorate from 2 to 5 pm<br />Drive-thru event from 5 to 7 pm<br />Clean-up from 7 to 7:30 pm
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvIuwyQf9WQ"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ZmXXLdWj30xWP9Of5M8AYlUrJvh8b8GvnRnWeh9rPWgBSYwzaBe0btf4VVLzIxl-TAWaClWwRFuXPdFTsqAZM0Qv8iX350H9BadUBPNljY2KGWQeAKsryipFSgmLAhPfLnq-tWtU" width="624" height="349" /></a>
CONTACT
<br />20830 Sherman Way
Winnetka, CA 91306
United States
<a href="https://www.itisoverdue.com/"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/R-uXD7DffEeKx9MKnlErLjO02DHaugJljJOlrBsoZFhHVhVcv43gDEGFe9FR3Y-aDoIHZGxmlfenv46NhrbvuTo2vfUl3m0t3SA-Ld9Mn6tNNjkxLljXumpQkkSmm96pozywtdBK" width="624" height="624" /></a>
OVERDUE
ABOUT
OVERDUE is a collective of individuals who pick up trash together to make their communities cleaner, greener and friendlier.
We started in October 2020 in the San Fernando Valley, CA and have picked up over 30,000 lbs of trash ever since. Our goal is to develop a network of empowered leaders of all ages who are taking responsibility in their neighborhoods.
CAUSE AREAS
Children & Youth<br />Environment<br />Justice & Legal
OPPORTUNITIES
Malibu Beach Cleanup
We host monthly beach cleanups! The beach cleanups are crucial to protect marine life by picking up the trash on the beaches. On the cliffs by the beaches, there are needles, shattered glass and SO MANY plastic bottles. By picking up all the trash before the wind carries it away, we protect the marine life.
Lake Balboa Cleanup
We do frequent river cleanups as well. At the beginning of the cleanup at Lake Balboa, we could barely see the water due to piled up plastic pollution. We couldn’t even see the trees because unbelievable things like box springs, shopping carts and bookshelves were wrapped around the trees.
It’s awesome to see how fast nature heals and know that we can restore nature for our future generations!
CONTACT
<a href="mailto:hello@itisoverdue.com">hello@itisoverdue.com</a>
<a href="https://www.ace4change.org/" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/7_MfpqJ-q0DoM3CjGK91YelgnPTsHb-6VUhiMAp3fyJOBlc5VQsbHsXl6ocxUtCglGIVCGXefIhWGUMMKCKE6n7W0fb7K_1z1M7C6YtkOOaE5Lld-5jMtDsdlgAoz8Qgu9J-njzf" width="624" height="465" /></a>
Alliance for Community Empowerment
ABOUT
The Alliance for Community Empowerment Mentoring Program connects underserved transitional age youth with caring adult mentors from the community to help the youth reach their academic and personal potential. The time commitment for mentors is about one hour per week. The year-long program will begin with 3 months of group mentoring prior to the start of one-on-one matching. Group sessions are held via Zoom with the opportunity to form a virtual one-on-one match following the completion of the 3-month group commitment.
CAUSE AREAS
Children & Youth<br /> Education & Literacy
OPPORTUNITIES
Become a mentor! ACE is always excited to welcome new mentors into their program. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a mentor, please click the link below to fill out an interest form and register for an information session. At the information session, you will learn about time commitments, program requirements, and other key aspects of ACE Mentorship. Are you that mentor who will make a difference in the life of a young person? Come find out!
<a href="https://www.ace4change.org/community/counseling-mentoring-support-services/" target="_blank">https://www.ace4change.org/community/counseling-mentoring-support-services/</a>
CONTACT
​​818-704-RUTH
Mon - Fri 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
6925 Canoga Avenue
Canoga Park, CA 91303
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/Life Animal Rescue"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/AzMSuj3Haembdl0eyiPwR02Bz8qT3penWyrRhE_kv0gEhiAAmxbhJ4zcJ0SplZZyVUgFjnLYs6sD97GUw7RwOOdN_jwO4UP62eUCWaQ3fZtX-YLJ1JNQUDFa_pF0NC6ePf927Egw" width="621" height="473" /></a>
L.I.F.E. Animal Rescue (Living Is For Everyone)
ABOUT
We rescue dogs and cats from the shelter on their last day and find them loving homes. L.I.F.E. also rescues abandoned dogs and cats and occasionally takes in animals from families no longer able to keep them due to hardships. We need volunteers to help care for our cats and dogs at our rescue facility and to assist us on adoption days.
One Dog, One Life, Changed Forever.
CAUSE AREAS
Animals
OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteers (over 14) are needed every Saturday at our adoption sites to sit with a dog that is up for adoption. Our adoption site is the Westlake Village PetsMart (10 a.m.-5 p.m.)
CONTACT
P.O. Box 1431
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
United States
Visit us at our weekly adoption location at PetSmart:
PetsMart in Westlake Village
Every Saturday From 10am to 5pm
5766 Lindero Canyon Rd
<a href="https://www.shelterapp.org/" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aplGinZr69JoULsvVLtR_Ih5MWXIZ6t2zV5iC2AE0AOi-Ivv2H35Oo4EUBj5NpC0MqzCp3GhYfzkM7lb3XwUTY3sw-KtMUlXDrWsz0NqzeDbrEsBN6MGIGr2W7g4ifXi6kyTUjBu" width="624" height="300" /></a>
SHELTER APP INC
Shelter App, Inc. is an All-volunteer Non-Profit Organization whose mission is to help Homeless and low-income families connect to services and resources using web and mobile app platforms.
Our Shelter App(formerly Strappd) has resources for Youth across US and resources for everyone in Colorado and in following Counties/Cities: Los Angeles County, King County(Seattle), Multnomah County(Portland), Orange County, San Bernardino County, Riverside County, San Francisco County, Santa Clara County(San Jose), Alameda County(Oakland), San Diego County, Sacramento County, Ramsey County(St. Paul) and El Paso County.
App Users will be able to switch from List View to Map View and can filter services that are just open from the side menu. Users can click on any service to get more details like contact info, transit directions and schedule for that service. Flag button on Home Screen will help you connect to an App Admin or Service Provider for that resource. Users can click on Kudos button to show appreciation for the services they like.
If you are doing community service and interested in listing your service, you can add/manage a service by signing up in the app. You can also update the number of beds available for shelters that you manage. All details entered by the service providers will be reviewed by us before getting published in the app
CAUSE AREAS
Crisis Support<br />Emergency & Safety<br />Homeless & Housing
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiAto19bRQI"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mxaKUpE-7iE2sYBxbTBRcA4xa4U3jIe0GTxxELPFglclTXRFwgFj0qNafIkpe8neHjWQ65ni8F0hkA70YEN4TBVLV3yHVgC3FxqPUtemolOasip-Vy4pVd1sJP-CXjBWFDAckpvY" width="624" height="352" /></a>
<br /><br /><br />
If you have any questions on getting involved please contact the <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes Team | Frontgate Real Estate - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/contact/$dana&jeffluxuryhomesteam|frontgaterealestate">Dana & Jeff Luxury Homes Team | Frontgate Real Estate</a> for more information.
2021-11-02T05:57:00-07:002021-12-20T14:02:59-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16133Frontgate Real Estate Presents Enchanting One of a Kind Estate
One of a kind estate perfectly sited on a premier end of cul-de-sac 1.87 acre lot within the prestigious community of Medea Valley Estates.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21100659/29105-old-mill-creek-agoura-hills-ca-91301/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frongate_Real_Estate_Old_Mill_Creek_Agoura_1.jpg" width="1920" height="1281" /></a>
This 6 bed / 7 bath estate home spans over 11,000 sq ft of grand scale & curated artistic design. Interior amenities include wide wood plank floors, vaulted ceilings and picture windows overlooking expansive parklike private grounds.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21100659/29105-old-mill-creek-agoura-hills-ca-91301/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Real_Estate_Old_Mill_2.jpg" width="1920" height="1280" /></a>
The main level envelopes an open floor concept featuring gracious formal living and dining rooms, chef's kitchen w/ adjacent great room, game room and dramatic library with entertainer bar and distinctive fireplace.
Sumptuous primary suite featuring a luxurious spa like bath and spacious walk-in closet is also found on the main level. The upstairs bedroom wing offers four impressive secondary bedrooms.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21100659/29105-old-mill-creek-agoura-hills-ca-91301/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Real_Estate_Old_Mill_Creek.jpg" width="1920" height="1279" /></a>
The impressive gourmet kitchen features professional top of the line appliances, custom cabinetry, marble counter tops & butlers pantry. The adjacent sunlit great room is the heart of this home with floor to ceiling fireplace, breakfast area and adjoining game room. Impressive home theater and meditation sanctuary complete this artistic masterpiece.
<a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/property-search/detail/10/21100659/29105-old-mill-creek-agoura-hills-ca-91301/" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Frontgate_Real_Estate_Old_Mill_Creek_Agoura_4.jpg" width="1920" height="1280" /></a>
Beyond the numerous picture windows & glass doors lies a magical expanse of massive Oaks, mature landscape and rolling green lawns. Inviting pool & spa, BBQ station with lounging deck, playground, zip line, vegetable garden & lighted play court with double basketball hoops add to this one of a kind enchanting property.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rO_UEPPVXM" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Untitled_design_3.png" width="1280" height="720" /></a>
Want more info on 29105 Old Mill Creek Lane?
<br /> <br />
Contact <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/testimonials">Jeff and Dana</a> and the Frontgate Real Estate team
(747) 888-0508
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
2021-11-01T07:00:00-07:002021-11-03T18:33:47-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:16037Landlords: Do you know how to track your rental expenses?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1326/image/Landlord_Real_Estate_Frontgate_Real_Estate.jpg" width="1280" height="853" />
This article from the <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/" target="_blank">Dana Olmes and Jeff Biebuyck Group</a> and Frontgate Real Estate provides a few suggestions to help you choose the best way to keep track of your real estate investments.
What tools are available for tracking rental property expenses?
Three of the most common tools are spreadsheets, rental income trackers, and business accounting software.
<br />
Tracking Rental Property Expenses with Spreadsheets
Using spreadsheets to track your rental property expenses is a simple way to organize your data. Still, if you have more than a couple of properties, the process becomes more complicated.
If you choose to use this method, you will likely want to use a template, like the <a href="https://www.tillerhq.com/free-rental-property-tracker-spreadsheet/" target="_blank">Tiller HQ Rental Manager Sheet</a>. You can use it to track expenses, <a href="https://www.zumper.com/blog/the-security-deposit-everything-you-need-to-know/" target="_blank">deposits</a>, and income. Also, you can use it to view the annual, quarterly, or monthly status of your properties. Lastly, you can customize the sheet as necessary.
Tracking Rental Property Expenses with a Rental Income Tracker
A more advanced and simplified method of tracking the expenses for your rental property is to use a rental income tracker. There are several on the market.
One example is Rentler. You can use Rentler to automate activities like listing a property or collecting rent.
<a href="https://www.rentler.com/" target="_blank">Rentler's key features</a> include:
Online payments
Tenant tracking
Credit check
Tenant portal
One of the best features is automated <a href="https://www.rentspree.com/blog/landlord-tips/how-much-should-i-charge-for-rent/" target="_blank">rent payments</a>. Once you invite your tenants to pay their rent on Rentler, the amount is direct-deposited into your account monthly.
Tracking Rental Property Expenses with Business Accounting Software
The most advanced way of these three methods is using business accounting software. This option provides far more benefits and has features like Tax Penalty Protection if you choose QuickBooks software.
What should you look for in a business accounting software?
One option is choosing a cloud-based expense management software. When you use cloud-based software, you can work from anywhere. This makes it easier to track expenses, especially if the software offers smartphone camera integration. Your employees, such as a property manager or handyman, can simply snap a photo of a receipt, and you won't need to worry that your staff will lose receipts or forget them.
Next, look for a platform for <a href="https://quickbooks.intuit.com/payroll/" target="_blank">processing payroll</a> that offers:
Automatic payroll scheduling
Automatic calculating and tax filing
Same-day direct deposit
When you automate payroll, you make wage calculations quicker and decrease the possibility of human error. Additionally, it makes changes, timekeeping, and recordkeeping easier. Using a payroll tool is simpler and more efficient than calculating payroll utilizing a spreadsheet. QuickBooks Payroll offers all these benefits and integrates with other QuickBooks functions, and allows you to streamline processes.
The key takeaway is to find your best way to track your expenses for your <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/blog/how-to-make-the-right-rental-property-investment-and-generate-serious-profits/" target="_blank">rental property investment</a>. By aligning the method you choose with your business needs, you ensure that you have what you need to make your real estate business run smoothly and remain profitable.
For more expert advice, contact the <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/about/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Frontgate Real Estate team - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/about/$frontgaterealestateteam">Frontgate Real Estate team</a>.
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
Contact <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/testimonials" data-uw-rm-brl="false">Jeff and Dana</a> and the Frontgate Real Estate team
(747) 888-0508
2021-10-25T08:45:00-07:002021-10-28T09:14:27-07:00Jeff Biebuycktag:danaandjeffestates.com,2012-09-20:15959Foundation Red Flags To Look For When Buying A San Fernando Valley HomePurchasing a home in any area comes with the potential for problems and hidden damages. Although San Fernando Valley homes are beautiful and highly sought after, they are at high risk of foundation damage that can spell severe trouble for buyers. When you’re purchasing a home in Los Angeles, Burbank, or elsewhere in the Valley, you should always consider the risk of foundation issues and carry out a full inspection before moving forward with the sale.
Below, foundation experts from Regional Foundation Repair will discuss the most <a href="https://www.regionalfoundationrepair.com/foundation-repair/ca/los-angeles/">common foundation problems</a> in Valley homes, as well as the underlying causes and the severity of each.
1. Cracks In The Foundation
Foundation cracks are often a reasonable indication of a foundation problem. However, inspecting the foundation beneath a home in the San Fernando Valley can be challenging because most houses are built on slab foundations and are hidden from view. If this is the case, you can walk along the outside of the house and check the visible strip of concrete where the house meets the ground.
Thin, vertical cracks found along this concrete strip are one of the least problematic kinds of cracks. They typically occur because of natural and unavoidable settling, and they rarely indicate a problem with a home’s structural integrity.
If you notice larger cracks or those that are no longer level from one side to the other, you should consider calling in an engineer before purchasing. These gaps often indicate dangerous differential settling, which occurs because of the expansive clay soil along Southern California’s coastline. The soil expands and contracts in response to the infrequent rain in the area, and any erratic movement beneath the concrete can create structural instability.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8VqhunepO-DqARebIdzyAE3pSzzjpvnu17CIt_A7cV3gO_ICXkpgkVhhSQ_ov8jRq1p37clgp4GGRrB-NDcbprII2fd6fR3ZHTeSF7i92Uh5J_u1ge5C2my4CkCKSinmpvWT49s=s1600" width="430" height="315" />
If you have access to the garage slab or can lift up the carpeting in an area inside the home, check for wide or uneven surface cracks. These could be caused by earthquakes that rattle Southern California frequently or by irregular soil movement. Either way, foundation repair in the San Fernando Valley for these cracks can be very costly.
2. Poor Indoor Air Quality
Many homebuyers don’t know that poor indoor air quality is often directly linked to foundation problems. When the concrete under the home you’re considering is exposed to water, the moisture wicks up through the porous foundation and settles between the slab and the flooring. The result is an increase in humidity, which can cause numerous issues with air quality.
This wicking process is a common occurrence for two reasons in the San Fernando Valley. First, the winters bring much heavier rains than the summer months, so most of the 15 inches of rain Los Angeles gets annually falls in a short span of just a few months. Second, plumbing lines generally run through the slab foundation, and breaks and significant leaks can occur if earthquakes cause any type of movement.
When the moisture enters the interior of a home, it can contribute to uncomfortably warm indoor temperatures in the summer or cold temperatures in the winter, despite the heating or cooling system being on. If you walk through a home and notice abnormally high or low temperatures, check the thermostat setting to see if it feels colder or hotter than it actually is.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/zxKe3jcyc_5xKjtI1ueSZtHuCchZbN01FUiY46Iij0JM_j_7FfVYW_vnL-4ls9w5V2VOmUWNTi5gA5bQ2Dmlz_2YjmKhp3P8eN1UyVOF5niceSI8hxlimy6ooLc8gYgHct8Hl-4=s1600" width="430" height="315" />
Indoor moisture also commonly leads to mold growth. Most of the time, spores grow out of sight, either under floorboards or behind walls and cabinets. If you notice <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/moldsymptoms.html">musty odors inside</a> during a showing or open house, consider investigating further or asking the seller about it. The seller might be willing to share recent water bills with you, which could at least put your mind at ease that the issue isn’t a plumbing leak within the slab.
3. Lack of Retrofitting
The last red flag you’ll want to keep an eye out for is the lack of earthquake retrofitting. As all homeowners in the San Fernando Valley know, Coastal California is <a href="https://ceo.lacounty.gov/hazards-and-threats/">at severe risk of earthquakes</a>. Retrofitting is the process of securing the home to the foundation to prevent movement and shifting of building material off of the concrete.
Unless the home you’re looking at has a crawlspace or basement, which are rare in the Valley, you’ll need to head to an unfinished area of the house to check for retrofitting bolts. Most homes have a garage or utility room that makes the process easy.
Retrofitting slab foundations requires that the sill plate be bolted to the concrete foundation every 4 to 6 feet along the perimeter of the home. You will be able to see bolt heads along the sill plate if the house is retrofitted.
If the home has a gas connection, you can also check the gas meter outside for an earthquake valve. These valves are usually red and relatively easy to spot. They serve as an emergency shutoff to prevent house fires and explosions if the gas line to the home is ruptured by an earthquake.
If you don’t see bolts or an earthquake valve on the gas meter, you can expect to pay around $1,000 or more post-closing to have your home retrofitted and safeguarded against earthquakes.
Wrapping Up: How to Ensure Your Foundation Is Structurally Sound
Buying a home in the San Fernando Valley can be stressful, but keeping a keen eye out for foundation damage and red flags can help mitigate the risk of buying a home with existing problems.
If you’re considering purchasing the home, make sure to investigate foundation cracks and symptoms of poor indoor air quality, and check the house to confirm that it has been earthquake retrofitted. Following these steps will help ensure you purchase a structurally secure home that won’t demand hundreds or thousands of dollars in surprise repairs shortly after you close.
For more expert advice on your next home purchase, contact the <a href="https://www.danaandjeffestates.com/about/" target="_blank">Frontgate Real Estate team</a>.
Frontgate Real Estate | Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck Group
23500 Long Valley Rd
Hidden Hills, CA 91302
Contact <a href="https://danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com/testimonials" data-uw-rm-brl="false">Jeff and Dana</a> and the Frontgate Real Estate team
(747) 888-05082021-10-20T15:49:00-07:002021-10-20T17:29:34-07:00Jeff Biebuyck