Instead of Shoe Covers, Maybe We Need These.... - 05/31/12 10:21 PM
Instead of Shoe Covers, Maybe We Need These....

It is not uncommon when viewing and showing certain properties, the owner prefers that shoe covers be worn to protect newly refinished hardwood floors, light color carpeting ....


Maybe we just need to be provided these....

Please do not have this accessory for prospective buyers! Buyers want and should see every room, be able to open closets, look inside the garage....

Have you shown or seen a house with a warning at the door requesting that visitor not open the door of a particular room? Be warned … (11 comments)

Welcome to The Savannah - 05/31/12 04:15 AM
Welcome to The Savannah



Built in 2003 by Mur-Sol Construction, The Savannah is the newest development along South Orange Grove Boulevard in the city of Pasadena.  Located at the southeast corner of California and Orange Grove Boulevards this six unit Georgian Colonial style complex redefines luxury living.  The handsome brick clad exterior, steel roof and beautiful landscaped grounds introduce interiors that feature tall ceilings and luxury appointments. The gourmet kitchens feature rich cabinetry, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Dual zone heating/air conditioning systems and individual elevators highlight the spacious three bedroom multi-level units.   Interior square footages range … (15 comments)

Castlegate in Pasadena - 05/30/12 03:12 PM
Castlegate in Pasadena


Located just east of famed South Orange Grove Boulevard at 330 West California Boulevard, Castlegate is a 48 unit condominium complex.   Castlegate offers single level homes ranging in size from one bedroom to two bedrooms with den.   Built in 1974, amenities in the complex include lobby entrance, mature landscaping, pool and recreation/meeting room.  In addition there is a common laundry area but in-unit laundry connections are available with homeowner association approval.  Parking is in the subterranean garage.The professionally managed Castlegate association has many recent enhancements that are sure to maintain and increase values including exterior painting … (2 comments)

I Work My Open Houses for My Sellers - 05/29/12 08:59 PM
I Work My Open Houses for My Sellers



Open Houses -- love ‘em or hate ‘em -- if you ask enough Realtors their opinion -- you’ll hear diverse views and perhaps more than a few expletives deleted.   I’m definitely in the pro-open house camp and I am happy to tell you why it's been a successful marketing tool for homes I have listed and sold.

 When I’m holding your house for sale open -- I’m not sitting at your open house -- I’m working the room -- just like you might do at a cocktail party.
… (38 comments)

Oakland Towers in Pasadena - 05/29/12 09:35 AM
Oakland Towers in Pasadena




Oakland Towers is a 4o unit mid-rise condominium complex in the Madison Heights neighborhood of Pasadena.  This highly desirable location is convenient to South Lake Avenue, the Playhouse District, California Institute of Technology and Paseo Colorado so shopping, dining and entertainment options are quite abundant.Built in 1963, Oakland Towers consists of studio, two and three bedroom single level units built around a central courtyard with mature landscaping.  There are two tower buildings(385 and 395 South Oakland) each with a lobby and elevator service to upper levels and a common laundry area.   Some units … (5 comments)

Thanks for the Invite But I'm Going To Decline - 05/28/12 11:34 AM
Thanks for the Invite But I’m Going To DeclineThere it was in my email inbox --- hmm, a possible referral or a new lead to buy or sell a Pasadena property?   Hmm, not so fast....Here it is:HELLOMy name is Miss Victoriai saw your profile now in this sit (activerain.com)and pick interest in you as friend to share important discussion with you as friend so contact me through my email addressesfor picture and other discussion okWell, with my hopes dashed --- it’s off to work I go.....Hi Ho Hi Ho....thanks for the invite but I'm going to decline. If you are interested … (16 comments)

Barcelona of Pasadena - 05/28/12 07:56 AM
Barcelona of Pasadena



Step back in time at Barcelona of Pasadena.  Located at 85 North Madison Avenue in the Playhouse District of Pasadena this impressive building is on the National Register of Historic Places.  Built in the 1920s as an own-your-own apartment, The Barcelona is now a condominium building of studio and one bedroom units.   
A true treasure in the heart of Pasadena, the building commands a striking presence at the northwest corner of Union and Madison just north of Colorado Boulevard.   The lobby with its high ceiling, hardwood floors and abundant windows is reminscent of a … (6 comments)

314 Monterey Road in South Pasadena - 05/27/12 06:05 PM
314 Monterey Road in South Pasadena


When convenience matters, 314 Monterey Road in South Pasadena offers an ideal setting close to freeways, the gold line light rail station and some known and not-so-known short cuts to Downtown Los Angeles.    Of course, you are close to all things South Pasadena including excellent schools, fine parks and recreation, So Pas Library plus unique shops and dining choices. This 24 unit condominium complex was built in 1982 with homes ranging in size from one to two bedrooms in single and two level floor plans.   Common areas include a pool, spa and laundry … (8 comments)

This 15 Year Old Law Can Save You Money When Selling Your Pasadena Area Home - 05/27/12 09:29 AM
This 15 Year Old Law Can Save You Money When Selling Your Pasadena Area Home



As old as this topic is, I continue to receive questions regarding Capital Gains and Selling Real Estate.  Although the rules changed(actually in 1997) the current law allows homeowners(in Pasadena and throughout the country) to avoid paying taxes on the first $500,000 of profit from their home sale if they are married or on the first $250,000 if they are single or widowed.
You must have lived in the home as your primary residence for two of the last five years. You are … (4 comments)

Rose Court - Such A Convenient Pasadena Location - 05/26/12 11:36 PM
Rose Court -- Such A Convenient Pasadena Location


Originally built in 1972 and converted to condominiums in 1994, Rose Court is a 74 unit complex and just a short stroll to nearly all things Pasadena.   Go east from Rose Court and find shops, dining and maybe even your office on South Lake Avenue -- and a few more blocks the California Institute of Technology(Caltech).   Head north on Madison Avenue and turn right on Green Street and you will pass Jacob Maarse’s iconic Pasadena flower shop which is just around the corner from the Pasadena Playhouse.   Pasadena’s famous Colorado Boulevard … (3 comments)

Yes, Your Home is (Fill-in-the-Blank) But It Won't Sell For More Than What A Buyer Will Pay - 05/26/12 02:32 PM
Yes, Your Home is (Fill-in-The-Blank) But It Won’t Sell For More Than What A Buyer Will Pay
So beautiful Darling Incredible Drop dead gorgeous


Are you describing your neighbor’s new bundle of joy or that property that you’ve just listed.   To paraphrase W C Fields --- this is a no kids zone today but if the topic is homes, you’ve come to the right place.  
Many think of their home as a castle -- and in some cases, they are right(including the obligatory moat and drawbridge) but please understand buyers will be making their decision to buy … (30 comments)

Not Every Closing Day is Smooth - 05/25/12 09:43 PM
Not Every Closing Day is SmoothDoesn’t everybody look forward to a closing day?   Well, most days...yes...but



Some closing days are better than others.   Just sayin’.
In the end, things typically do work out for the best.Not Every Closing Day is SmoothMichael Jacobs is a Realtor who serves the Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley as well as the adjacent northeast foothill communities within the city of Los Angeles and can be reached at 818.516.4393 cell or michaeljacobs@coldwellbanker.com.
… (9 comments)

Welcome to Casa Serena - 05/23/12 03:24 PM
Welcome to Casa Serena in Pasadena
 
Casa Serena is a 48 unit condominium complex in the Madison Heights neighborhood of Pasadena located at 420 South Madison Avenue.   The Madison Heights location is ideal with a multitude of shopping, dining and entertainment options within easy access.  Beautifully manicured grounds as well as a pool and patio areas accent  Casa Serena which was built in 1970.   The single level condominiums are quite spacious with one or two bedrooms and square footages from approximately 980 to almost 1300 square feet.   The homes have either a balcony or patio area.    Parking is subterranean and … (7 comments)

Pasadena Place -- New York Style in the Heart of Pasadena - 05/22/12 04:29 PM
Pasadena Place -- New York Style in the Heart of Pasadena



As part of the original marketing campaign for Pasadena Place(construction date 2006) stated potential residents could find NY Style on the West Coast.   Clean modern lines and a hip lobby seemed a bit out of place to many in this very traditional city.   The location at 159 West Green Street, just south of Colorado in the Old Pasadena District was just steps away from stores, restaurants and entertainment.   The new urbanism movement many had heard about was alive and thriving in Old Pasadena.   The five story building … (10 comments)

Real Estate Math and Owning Your Pasadena Home Sooner - 05/22/12 07:08 AM
Real Estate Math and Owning Your Pasadena Home Sooner




Try It Kids -- You Might Like It
 
12 + 1 = 23
 
As the traditional school year draws to a close -- is it time for summer school?

Not so fast ....
Ok, let’s take it one step at a time
12(months) +1(one extra principal payment)
 
equals
 
30(year original loan) - 7(number in years of savings)

23
 
HUH?
Did you know that there is a way to save a lot of $$$ on your Pasadena CA mortgage?
 
Did you … (15 comments)

Welcome to The Monterey Collection - 05/21/12 09:02 PM
Welcome to The Monterey Collection



The Monterey Collection is a 20 unit condominium complex in the Hermon District of Los Angeles adjacent to the city of South Pasadena. Located at 6221 Monterey Road, each of the single level homes features two bedrooms and two baths.   Building started in 2006 but there were many delays(a shift in the real estate market) so the tax assessor uses 2009 as year of construction.  The units feature impressive fireplaces, balconies as well as bamboo and natural stone flooring.  Kitchens boasts cherry wood cabinetry, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.   There are laundry … (4 comments)

Park California in Pasadena - 05/21/12 10:12 AM
Park California in Pasadena


Park California is a 74 unit condominium complex in the Madison Heights neighborhood of Pasadena.   Built in 1980, Park California is located at 497 East California Boulevard(northwest corner of Oakland) with easy access to the many shopping, dining and entertainment options on South Lake Avenue and Paseo Colorado.   
The single level condos range in size from approximately 1000 to nearly 1400 square feet.  Each home has two bedrooms, two or two-and-half baths, fireplace, laundry connections and high ceilings(vaulted on the third floor). The largest units have a den that could be a third bedroom.Park … (12 comments)

A Simple Gesture --- Welcome To Your New Home - 05/20/12 09:52 PM
A Simple Gesture --- Welcome To Your New HomeSome events are simple, little or no cost and serve as reminder to a new homeowner with some information they make have forgotten during the final walk-through prior to closing.Found on the refrigerator to the new owners. Kindness never goes out of style.Michael Jacobs is a Realtor serving the Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley as well as the northeast foothill communities within the city of Los Angeles and can be reached at 818.516.4393 cell or michaeljacobs@coldwellbanker.com

A Simple Gesture --- Welcome To Your New Home
… (40 comments)

Do You Care If Jennifer Aniston Slept Here? - 05/20/12 10:36 AM
Do You Care If Jennifer Aniston Slept Here?


I'm Not Aware If Jennifer Aniston Has Even Visited This Room Let Alone Slept Here

In today’s Los Angeles Times there is an article about celebrity-owned real estate and its impact on price and saleability.  The article cited some different examples.   Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell’s Malibu beach house has not sold and they have recently cut the price $3.5 to $11.2 million for their Balinese oceanfront home.  The home of Katy Perry and Russell Brand in Los Feliz sold within days of coming on the market for $3.3 million(nearly … (9 comments)

If You Don't Have Anything Nice to Say.... - 05/19/12 05:13 PM
If You Don’t Have Anything Nice to Say...I posted a variation of this post about a year and half ago … this past week I had a couple of experiences and it came to mind so here it is again.....
 


I'm sorry Alice but I would not sit next to you.

Afterall, you were the daughter of a United States President
I'm sure many people thought highly of you.
I'm sure you had many admirable qualities.
Many might even consider you the life of the party.
But I would not want to sit next to you.
… (11 comments)

Disclose, Disclose, Disclose - Words to Live By - 05/19/12 10:46 AM
Disclose, Disclose, Disclose - Words to Live By


When taking a new listing, I feel it best to have you as the sellers complete all of the required disclosures upfront.  It is a great way to prepare for the sale and readies you for your move forward.  A disclosure packet can be given to a prospective buyer to review before they make an offer lessening “surprises” and  when combined with a pre-market inspection(the buyers will still have a right to their own inspection) along with a copy of the preliminary title report can help make your transaction move forward … (8 comments)

Listed and Leased -- 8326 Bevan Street in San Gabriel - 05/19/12 09:19 AM
Listed and Leased -- 8326 Bevan Street in San Gabriel


Picture perfect curb appeal combines with a pleasant tree-lined street near the San Gabriel Country Club in this two bedroom, two bath home on Bevan Street.  The knotty pine den overlooks the rear garden area and could be bedroom three.   Price:  $2100 per month.
Michael Jacobs is a Realtor serving the Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley areas as well as the northeast foothill communities within the city of Los Angeles and can be reached at 818.516.4393 cell/text or michaeljacobs@coldwellbanker.com



… (6 comments)

It's Marathon Time in Pasadena CA - Sunday, May 20 - 05/18/12 04:40 PM
It’s Marathon Time in Pasadena CA - Sunday, May 20

Wrigley Mansion
Home of Pasadena Tournament of Roses
Southbound Orange Grove Boulevard will be closed between Green Streets and California Boulevard
for Pasadena Marathon
South Orange Grove Boulevard due for closure Sunday, May 20, 2012 Apx 5AM until 8:30AM
Thousands of runners, walkers and bicyclists from around the world are due in Pasadena this Sunday, May 20 for the fourth annual Kaiser Permanente Pasadena Marathon.  In addition to the 26 mile full marathon, there will be a 5K, 10K, Kids Run and half marathon plus a 26 mile bike tour(this … (7 comments)

Signs of the Season in Monterey Hills - 05/17/12 09:26 PM
Signs of the Season in Monterey Hills



While the “For Sale” signs in Monterey Hills are not as plentiful there are some distinct signs of the season - the blooms of the Jacaranda trees are not in full bloom but their colors are beginning to dot the landscape on the Hill.
Jacarandas are native to Mexico, parts of Central America,  South America, India as well as some parts of Asia and Africa.    The flowers are generally blue-to-purple in color but also in white.   You can see them in Monterey Hills and in many Southern California communities in May … (11 comments)

Register to Vote in California - Deadline Sunday, May 20, 2012 - 05/16/12 10:47 AM
Register to Vote in California - Deadline Sunday May 20, 2012
 

 
Are you newly eligible to vote in California?   Have you recently moved?  Are you not sure?   The deadline to register to vote in California is Sunday, May 20.   
Check here to download the proper forms so you can complete and mail in time for the deadline:

https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/register-to-vote/
Remember the California primary is on Tuesday, June 5 --- this will have an effect on Californians at the local, state and national level.  Michael Jacobs is a Realtor serving the Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley as well as the … (8 comments)

Are You a California Short Sale Seller or Buyer? - 05/15/12 01:12 PM
Are You a California Short Sale Seller or Buyer?

As you may be aware a short sale is a real estate transaction where the seller owes more on the mortgage, selling costs and other liens than the sale price will cover.   The offer and eventual sale is contingent upon the lender(s) approving the sale.  Please note:  lenders are not required to accept or approve any short sale.
In California, there has been a change added in April 2012 to paragraph 1A of our Short Sale Addendum.   This addendum should be an attachment to every short sale(the change is noted in … (7 comments)

How's The Real Estate Market in San Marino CA? - 05/14/12 06:00 PM
How’s The Real Estate Market in San Marino CA?



Always a popular destination for those who desire an upscale environment with a highly acclaimed school district, San Marino is a city with only single family homes.  The Huntington Library, Art Galleries and Gardens plays a significant role in the city as the former home of Henry Huntington and serves as a cultural destination for the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles County.
April and Year-to-Date 2012 Sales Results and Market Recap - San MarinoIn April 2012, there were ten sales in San Marino.  Sold prices ranged from $913,000(a two … (6 comments)

What's for Sale and What's Selling in South Pasadena - 05/13/12 10:35 AM
What’s for Sale and What’s Selling in South Pasadena


Currently available in South Pasadena - $995,000

South Pasadena is not a suburb of Pasadena CA - it’s a separate city with its own school district(and very well-regarded, thank you very much) and a small town charm that is envied so much you may see it on television, in movies or while flipping through a magazine ad as it often stands in for Anywhere, USA.   In South Pasadena you will find tree-lined streets with character homes or in the Altos de Monterey section of the city you will find … (7 comments)

South Pasadena CA Market Update - 05/11/12 10:45 PM
South Pasadena CA Market Update


South Pasadena Farmers Market
it's the place to be Thursdays late afternoon to early evening

Perhaps you have seen South Pasadena on a television series, maybe in one of your favorite movies or that commercial last night -- as this small city oftens fills in as Anywhere USA.  Character homes line its many tree-lined streets where unique shops and cafes are dotted near the highly acclaimed South Pasadena schools, parks and public library.   Add to this ambience and you may never realize you are in a location so convenient to Downtown Los Angeles … (7 comments)

How Did You Find Us Today? - 05/11/12 07:32 AM
How Did You Find Us Today?


I know many think that open houses are not an effective way to market and sell a property. And they may be right --- for them.   If you are not of the open house mindset -- you probably should not participate.  
For me, open houses have proven to successful at selling that home.   Not necessarily double-ending(representing both the seller and buyer) but actually selling the property to someone visiting during an open house.  It could be their first exploratory visit or a follow-up to an appointment with their agent --- open houses … (16 comments)

Pasadena "Millionaire's Row" Update - 05/10/12 07:37 PM
Pasadena “Millionaire’s Row” Update


Pasadena Tournament of Roses "Wrigley Mansion"

If you have been a regular follower of my market reports, I first want to thank you and to let you know I am refining the parameters I use when describing Pasadena’s “Millionaire’s Row” or the “South Orange Grove Corridor”.   In the past I extended a bit beyond the Boulevard to include the condos along West California -- this report will not include those properties and will include only condominiums and townhomes along South Orange Grove Boulevard and the adjacent streets:  South Grand, South Arroyo Drive, Palmetto, … (11 comments)

Stamp Out Hunger - Saturday, May 12 - 05/10/12 08:05 AM
Stamp Out Hunger - Saturday, May 12


Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive - Saturday, May 12
It’s easy to give to those who are in need this Saturday as the National Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is being held.   Simply put out canned food for your letter carrier to pick up on Saturday, May 12.   Clean out your pantry or pick up some extras when shopping this week.   Need some suggestions? Canned fish/meat, soup, cereal, bottled juices, vegetables, rice, pasta --- anything that does not need to be refrigerated, is not past its expiration date and is … (13 comments)

Monterey Hills Market Update - 05/05/12 05:20 PM
Monterey Hills Market Update


Bradley Court - 16 home planned unit development -- newest in Monterey Hills
built in 2000

This report covers the planned community of Monterey Hills located within the city limits of Los Angeles.   Monterey Hills is comprised of condominiums, townhomes and one single family development located adjacent to South Pasadena with convenient access to Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena, both the San Gabriel/San Fernando Valleys as well as LA’s Westside. The USC Health Science Campus is a short commute making it an ideal location for medical students and staff.   Even with this desirable close-in setting, … (14 comments)

Surfwood Monterey Market Report - 05/05/12 11:02 AM
Surfwood Monterey Market Report


This report is for Surfwood Monterey located in the Hermon district within the city of Los Angeles.   Located adjacent to the city of South Pasadena, this relatively small area boasts exceptional access to transportation with multiple freeway options and two Gold Line rail stations nearby.   This makes commuting to Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena, both the San Gabriel/San Fernando Valleys as well as LA’s Westside less of a hassle.
Surfwood Monterey is a 92 unit condominium complex comprised of two bedroom/two bath single level homes in a variety of floor plans.  The complex is located at … (13 comments)

I Will Work To Sell Your Monterey Hills Condo or Townhome - 05/04/12 08:30 PM
I Will Work To Sell Your Monterey Hills Condo or Townhome



Monterey Hills

A Hidden Treasure within the city limits of Los Angeles
convenient to Pasadena,
San Gabriel & San Fernando Valleys
Downtown Los Angeles & USC Health Science Campus
Monterey Hills buyers want your home!  And your neighbors!   Inventory levels of available properties in Monterey Hills is low....very low.   As of 8PM, May 4, 2012 there are only ten properties for sale in Monterey Hills out of approximately 1800 condos and townhomes in the community!
What’s Currently Available in Monterey Hills:
Chadwick Terrace one … (7 comments)

Open House Sunday May 6 -- Ardmore House in Pasadena CA - 05/03/12 07:27 PM
Open House Sunday May 6 --- Ardmore House in Pasadena CA 
 
On Sunday, May 6 from 2 until 4 PM we will be holding an open house at 480 South Orange Grove Boulevard in Pasadena -- the Ardmore House.   Unit Ten at Ardmore House is a single level condominum in this desirable complex.  It features no common walls and no unit above giving it a unique single family residence feeling.   Ardmore House features mature landscaped grounds with a beautiful pool.   There are three elevators in the complex and subterranean parking.   The complex features Millionaire's Row only … (17 comments)

Yes, Homes Are Selling That Quickly - 05/02/12 08:44 PM
Yes, Homes Are Selling That Quickly
Now may be the perfect time to sell your Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley area home!
As we got into the car this past weekend, I told my clients -- our list of homes to see would be one less than originally planned.   One of the homes on the list -- had sold in the last 24 hours.  Not only had it sold -- there were ten offers!    Ten offers, they said almost in unison!   That quickly? Yes, many homes are selling that quickly. If you are in the market for a home, condominium or townhome in … (18 comments)

 
Unknown Rainmaker_large

Michael Jacobs, Pasadena CA/SanGabriel Valley Realtor, 818.516.4393 cell

Pasadena, CA

More about me…

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate

Address: 2065 Huntington Drive, San Marino, CA, 91108

Office Phone: (626) 685-5246

Cell Phone: (818) 516-4393

Email Me

Your source for real estate representation in the San Gabriel Valley and northeast communities of the city of Los Angeles including: Pasadena, Altadena, South Pasadena, San Marino, Alhambra, San Gabriel, Temple City, Arcadia, Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Duarte, Bradbury, Azusa, Glendora, Claremont, Glendale and La Canada Flintridge as well as Highland Park, Monterey Hills, Eagle Rock, Mt Washington, Montecito Heights, Glassell Park and Sagamore Park.


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