My Beverly Hills Real Estate Blog

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-09-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:46:10 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-09-09

Monday a little warmer today under sunny skies... Low 90's in warmer inland areas... Welcome of to the daily blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com . It was a pretty good NFL Sunday. See the Dallas/Eagle game? A good one.

Don't forget our video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

Alert! Although this alert was sent out specifically for Nichols Canyon it is applicable to every area. Be cautious with your mail and mailboxes!

Dear Neighbors,
We are having reports of mail thefts this weekend in our neighborhood and the whole way down to the neighbors in lower Nichols. Please contact Federal Postal Inspector Kelly Castro at 323 586 1986. You can also go online to the US Postal Inspectors and file a complaint on line. We would suggest you do both. It is important for Inspector Castro hear from you. It is also important that you get a case number in case you have any fraud related to your mail OR are given late charges because some bill didn't arrive.

We will also notify Officer Sanchez as well. He only has jurisdiction if there was mailbox vandalism but he wants to know about this. Mail theft is a federal offense.

Also consider getting more secure mailboxes. The Mulholland Lock Company in Studio City is one of several with stronger, safer boxes. If we have other suggestions we will post them on our website at Canyon 411.

Stay safe!
Neighborhood Safety Committee

Subject: CRIME ALERT--MAIL THEFT

FYI - This Alert came out today from Upper Nichols Canyon

MAIL THEFT US Postal Service

https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/investigations/MailFraud/fraudschemes/mailtheft/MailTheft.aspx

You cannot be too safe with your identity these days. Please exercise caution. That's it for Monday, we will see you tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-08-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 09:52:09 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-08-09

Sunday... slightly warmer and more sunshine. Mid 60's to low 70's at the beaches and mid 70's inland. What a way to start the day, greeted by sunshine and blue skies. Welcome of to the daily blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com .

Okay, the Irish lose. There may be one happy person out there other than Navy fans; John Gruden who is rumored to be next in line for ND's head coaching spot.

The daily blog for a Sunday and don't forget our Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

Sunday also means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your c computer screen. See something? Give us a call 310 888 3357.

The LA Times Business Section has two helpful articles in it. There is also one about who qualifies for the tax credit extension and how you may qualify. The other article is about foreclosure and preventing it.

And from us; be on the lookout for bogus census takers coming to your door asking info that could ultimately lead to your identity theft! We posted an alert from the LAPD about this earlier this week.

Today is football Sunday. So it's a short blog. Have a great day and see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 11-07-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:47:19 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 11-07-09

It's Saturday ... Cooler today low 60's along the coast to low 70's inland under partly sunny skies once again today. Notre Dame Football today at 11:30 our time on NBC.

Welcome to the daily blog for a Saturday and don't forget our Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

Saturday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your c computer screen. See something? Give us a call 310 888 3357.

News from CAR:

NEARLY $3 MILLION SETTLEMENT FOR HOUSING DISCRIMINATION

The U.S. Department of Justice has obtained a record $2.725 million settlement against Los Angeles apartment owners for alleged rental discrimination. In a lawsuit brought in August 2006, the Justice Department claimed that Donald T. Sterling and others engaged in discriminatory practices, such as refusing to rent to African-Americans, Hispanics, and families with children, refusing to rent to non-Koreans in Koreatown buildings, misrepresenting the availability of rental units, and preparing internal reports of tenants' racial profiles.

Under the name of Beverly Hills Properties, the defendants in this lawsuit own and manage about 119 apartment buildings containing over 5,000 apartment units in Los Angeles County. Their agreement to pay $2.725 million is the largest monetary settlement the Justice Department has ever obtained for rental housing discrimination. The bulk of the money will be placed in a fund to pay tenants harmed by the defendants' discriminatory practices. The defendants must also take certain measures to ensure non-discriminatory practices, such as obtain fair housing training and monitor their employees' compliance with fair housing laws over the next three years. For more information, the Justice Department's press release is available at http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2009/November/09-crt-1187.html.

C.A.R. provides REALTORS® with many legal articles covering a wide range of topics of interest. Some of the new or newly revised legal articles available at http://qa.car.org are as follows:

That's it for today, see you tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-06-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:02:56 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-06-09

It's a Finally a Friday... Cooler today low 60's along the coast to low 70's inland under partly sunny skies. Welcome to the daily blog. Don't forget our Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

WARNING: From LAPD
2010 Census Cautions from the Better Business Bureau Be Cautious About Giving Info to Census Workers

With the U.S. Census process beginning, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft. The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person in the United Stat es and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race, and other relevant data.

The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S. Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers the following advice:

** If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice.

Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.

** Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census

While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, the Census Bureau will not ask for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers nor will employees solicit donations. Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home. However, the Census Bureau will not contact you by Email, so be on the lookout for Email scams impersonating the Census.=2 0 Never click on a link or open any attachments in an Email that are supposedly from the U.S. C ensus Bureau. For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit www.bbb.org .

That's the hop tip for today! Have a great one and see you tamale!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-06-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:00:11 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-06-09

That's the hop tip for today! Have a great one and see you tamale!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 11-05-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:43:34 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 11-05-09

A Champagne Thursday although a little cloudy and cooler. 60'' at the beaches up to mid to upper 70's inland. People back east would kill for this kind of weather. We live in paradise.

Speaking of back east; congratulations to the Yankees!

Real Estate headlines: The Senate will vote to extend the credit of $8,000 to first time home buyers and $6,500 to qualified home owners looking to move up. The actual vote could come as early as today.

Locally from CAR:

Fast Facts
Calif. median home price - September 09: $296,090 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region September 09: Santa Barbara So. Coast $750,000 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region September 09: High Desert $117,820 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Second Quarter 2009: 67 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 10/29/09 30-yr. fixed: 5.03% Fees/points: 0.7% 15-yr. fixed: 4.46% Fees/points: 0.6% 1-yr. adjustable: 4.57% Fees/points: 0.6% (Source: Freddie Mac)

Don't forget our new Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... Send us a joke!

Have a great Thursday and we'll see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 11-04-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:28:24 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 11-04-09

Another Hump Day as we head on our way to another Super Southern California Weekend! A fantastic day on tap, mid 60's at the beaches, mid 80's downtown, and upper mid 90's in the inland areas all under clear, sunny skies.

Game 6 of the Series tonight.

The LA Times reporting Real Estate internet scams. Check out the Business Section. Unfortunately, real estate is not the only business for internet scammers... The scam artists have invaded many professions and made consumers leery. As we've reported in the past; be careful. When selling for example we've found that using a cut rate internet based listing company is NOT the best thing for serious sellers. We feel you need a local agent from an actual brokerage in the area for best results. Same thing applies when buying. You need someone with local knowledge on the ground who knows the market. You do get what you pay for in this case. Would you trust your largest investment to someone you don't know? That's our take anyway.

The Open House market was good again yesterday. The market is back. We've found... priced right equals quick sale. Remember that!

I'm reminded daily how much people love our new Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... Send us a joke!

Join a growing field of satisfied buyers and sellers in Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz, Hancock Park today! We can help sell your Beverly Hills Area Real Estate quickly! We have the most comprehensive MLS search engine which spans even beyond Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz, Hancock Park and can offer you a home value analysis on Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz, Hancock Park Homes.

Have a great Wednesday and we'll see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-03-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:05:47 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-03-09

Another fantastic day on tap, mid 70's at the beaches, mid 80's downtown, and upper mid 90's in the inland areas all under clear, sunny skies. This is what a titillating Tuesday is all about.

Is this World Series exciting or what? The Phillies are still alive. Game 6 tomorrow at 5pm. NY leads the series 3-2. I'm not sure if it's the Series or the fact that television has gotten so bad... For me; if there wasn't sports on TV, I wouldn't watch it.

Big news from the National Association of Realtors; the number of pending sales of existing houses has gone up for the 8^th consecutive month! This is further evidence that the housing market decline is over!!!

Open House Sunday a good one for most of our area we're happy to report.

Have a great Tuesday and we'll see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-02-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:17:07 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-02-09
Monday,"Halloween 2 "particularly if you're a Philly fan or a Packer fan... Bret Farv returns to Green Bay and wins. That was a great football game. MNF tonight...
Another fantastic day on tap, mid 70's at the beaches, mid 80's downtown, and upper 80's in the inland areas all under clear, sunny skies.
I'm reminded daily how much people love our new Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... Send us a joke!
Join a growing field of satisfied buyers and sellers in Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz, Hancock Park today! We can help sell your Beverly Hills Area Real Estate quickly! We have the most comprehensive MLS search engine which spans even beyond Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz, Hancock Park and can offer you a home value analysis on Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz, Hancock Park Homes.
Open House Sunday a good one for most of our area we're happy to report.
Have a great Monday and we'll see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-01-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 09:30:58 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-01-09

Sunday, the first of November. Time is flying by. Another fantastic day on tap, mid 70's at the beaches, mid 80's downtown, and upper 80's in the inland areas all under clear, sunny skies.

For USC, yesterday truly was Halloween... a nightmare. ND's looking good. The Phillies better get going... Today Bret Farve vs GB...

Sunday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your c computer screen.

People love our Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts. Stop by and check us out... Send us a joke!

We look forward to hearing from you. Have a great Sunday. CU Tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 10-31-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 10:19:51 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 10-31-09

Saturday and it's going to be and a scary night... after a beautiful day! Check it out at the beaches... 70's, mid 80's inland. Perfect weather for paradise.

It's Halloween! Remember what fun it was as a kid? I hope today's kids have as much fun as we had back then. They probably are. Be careful driving out there this evening watch out for trick or treaters.

Saturday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your c computer screen.

People love our Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Stop by and check us out... Send us a joke! By the way, did you have difficulty getting there yesterday? It's because I mispelled the the name paraquat in the link address. Sorry about that.

From CAR:

Oct. 30, 2009

Dear C.A.R. Members:

Good news to report: President Obama is expected to sign a resolution passed late yesterday by Congress extending the current limits for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and FHA loans through 2010. The limits were set to expire at the end of this year. This is especially critical for California, where more than 80 percent of all loans are financed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or FHA, and will help maintain the positive signs we are now seeing in California's mortgage market. President Obama is expected to sign the resolution today or tomorrow as part of a broader piece of budgetary legislation that will prevent a government shutdown.

While home prices in California have declined, the demand for housing has not. The market has been dominated by first-time home buyers who have faced a shortage of financing opportunities. The loan limits are set at 125 percent of local median home sales prices, up to a maximum of $729,750 in high-cost areas, including many regions in California. Sales in move-up and high-end markets have been constrained this year; the loan limits extension will help qualified home buyers in these markets to move forward with their purchases.

Although loan limits are safe through 2010, there is still work to be done. Congress has yet to act to extend the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit past its current Nov. 30 expiration date. Yet the impact of the home buyer tax credit is clear: A C.A.R. survey of first-time home buyers shows that 40 percent would not have purchased a home without the tax credit.

In tandem with our efforts to extend the current loan limits, C.A.R. and NAR are vigorously working to have the soon-to-expire federal First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit extended, and we need your help.

I am asking every one of you to contact your congressional representative today. In the Senate, an amendment offered by Senators Dodd, Lieberman, and Isakson will both extend the program into 2010 and expand the eligibility requirements. The amendment has been attached to a bill that will extend unemployment insurance benefits. We expect the bill will pass the Senate and then be voted on by the House of Representatives.

Sincerely,

James Liptak
2009 President
CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

That's it today; CU tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 10-30-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:11:42 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 10-30-09

Friday and it's going to be a beautiful day! Check it out at the beaches... upper 70‘s inland. Perfect weather for paradise. Damn, the Yankees won last night. Next game in Philadelphia.

Finally a Friday, the weekend beckons and the weather is great! Tomorrow we'll post the Open House guide for you so you can Home Surf from your laptop.

People love our Video joke and blog which is posted around noon time on www.papaquatkelley.com everyday. Stop by and check us out... Send us a joke!

Here is some important Mortgage news. Pay particular attention to the scam section below.

Welcome to C.A.R.'s Market Matters, your weekly market response guide.

C.A.R. Mortgage Update

Credit account dispute could stall mortgage application
Some consumers with exceptional credit reports and high FICO scores are being denied mortgages by Fannie Mae's automated underwriting system because there is a notation in the credit report that the consumer has disputed an item.

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumers are guaranteed the right to dispute inaccurate information on any account in their credit files. Once a consumer disputes an item in their credit report, a notation to this effect is made in the file. Until the notation is removed, most credit-scoring system generally will not factor the disputed item into the computation of the consumer's score.

However, with the recent surge in companies claiming to "clean up" and "erase" blemishes on consumers' credit reports, some lenders are finding that these credit companies are disputing accurate, but negative items, hoping the consumer will qualify for a loan before the dispute is resolved.

Applications that are denied through Fannie Mae's automated underwriting system, which is used by virtually all lenders doing business with Fannie Mae, are sent back to the lender for manual underwriting. It is then up to the lender to determine and document whether the disputed information is accurate and underwrite the borrower's credit accordingly.

To read the full story, please click here.

To view additional articles, which also may be of interest to clients in the market for a new home loan, loan modification, or mortgage refinance, please visit the following:

Digging yourself out of a mortgage mess
To read the full story, please click here.

Campaign targets mortgage modification scams
To read the full story, please click here.

Refinancing lifeline fails to reach most "underwater" homeowners

To read the full story, please click here.

That's it for Friday. Have a great one and see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 10-29-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:02:34 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 10-29-09

Thursday and it's going to be a little warmer. A high pressure ridge is building over the area meaning a warm up. High 60's at the beaches and up to mid 70's across the region.

The Phillies hammer the Yankees at home in game 1 of the Fall/Winter Classic. How about Chad Lee? Game Two tonight, same time.

The Senate has voted to extend the credit for first time buyers until April next year and also included a credit to people who have lived in their homes more than 5 years. That should continue to help the market.

From CAR,

Fast Facts
Calif. median home price - September 09: $296,090 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region September 09: Santa Barbara So. Coast $750,000 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region September 09: High Desert $117,820 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Second Quarter 2009: 67 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 10/22/09 30-yr. fixed: 5% Fees/points: 0.7% 15-yr. fixed: 4.43% Fees/points: 0.6% 1-yr. adjustable: 4.54% Fees/points: 0.6% (Source: Freddie Mac)

Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to Facebook and search "Beverly Hills Daily Joke and blog"

Worth repeating: IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Once again another big article in LA Times Business Section about fraudulent Companies offering to assist you in refinancing or restructuring your home loans. PLEASE read the article or contact your lender personally if you're having difficulty restructuring your loan.

This is a huge scam that has found its way into the real estate business. Please use caution and call us if you need the name of a reputable lender.

That's it for today, have a great one!

Thursday and it's going to be a little warmer. A high pressure ridge is building over the area meaning a warm up. High 60's at the beaches and up to mid 70's across the region.

The Phillies hammer the Yankees at home in game 1 of the Fall/Winter Classic. How about Chad Lee? Game Two tonight, same time... Hopefully same result.

From CAR,

Fast Facts
Calif. median home price - September 09: $296,090 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region September 09: Santa Barbara So. Coast $750,000 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region September 09: High Desert $117,820 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Second Quarter 2009: 67 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 10/22/09 30-yr. fixed: 5% Fees/points: 0.7% 15-yr. fixed: 4.43% Fees/points: 0.6% 1-yr. adjustable: 4.54% Fees/points: 0.6% (Source: Freddie Mac)

Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to Facebook and search "Beverly Hills Daily Joke and blog"

This is a huge scam that has found its way into the real estate business. Please use caution and call us if you need the name of a reputable lender.

That's it for today, have a great one!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 10-28-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:10:11 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 10-28-09

Wednesday and it's going to be noticeably cooler. Low 60's at the beaches and all across the area... the low 60's. That's what unseasonably cool means.

The World Series begin tonight at about 5pm on Fox. Do you realize that for the first time in the history of baseball at least one World Series game will be played in November? Talk about milking a season. The NBA kicked off its season last night. The finals there to be played in June.

Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to Facebook and search "Beverly Hills Daily Joke and blog"

This is a huge scam that has found its way into the real estate business. Please use caution and call us if you need the name of a reputable lender.

And from our monthly real estate news letter...

Outdoor lighting - simple and effective

Outdoor lighting is an easy and cost-effective way to dramatically improve the look of a dwelling. Whether it is simple lighting around a walkway, or an elaborate set up that enhances shrubbery, gardens, and patios, outdoor lighting improves safety and beautifies home landscapes. With today's lighting options, a few minutes of planning, coupled with a trip to the local home improvement store, and an hour or so for installation is all that is needed create an effective outdoor lighting scheme.

The easiest way to add outdoor lighting uses solar powered lights. Solar powered lights do not get very bright, but are ideal for providing illumination near walkways and stairs. Installation is as easy as pushing the lights into the ground. Solar powered lights do need access to plenty of sunlight during the day to charge the batteries, so they are not the best option if sunlight is limited or obstructed. If ample sunlight is available, an effective solar lighting installation can be completed in minutes

For a more elaborate installation, low voltage lighting systems are an excellent option. Installation of modern low voltage lighting is nearly as easy as solar lighting, with access to an outdoor electrical outlet being the main concern. Low voltage systems offer the option of using a combination of garden and flood light fixtures, allowing more freedom to create striking lighting effects. Low voltage lighting kits are inexpensive and generally include everything needed for installation. Using minimal do-it-yourself skills these kits can produce spectacular lighting results.

Email us if you'd like to be added to our email list.

Have a great Wednesday and continue to enjoy and love Los Angeles. CU Tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 10-27-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:40:03 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 10-27-09

It's a titillating Tuesday and it's going to be noticeably cooler. Low 60's at the beaches, mid 60's downtown and low 70's inland.

No major sporting events today on TV. The World Series starts Wednesday on Fox.

Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to Facebook and search "Paraquat Kelley Video" and it will come up looking something like this; 2009-10-24_0924. It's fun.

U.S. stocks dipped slightly this a.m., after data showed consumer confidence fell in October.

Today in Real Estate; it's Brokers Open; we will let you know if there are any fantastic deals out there.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Once again another big article in LA Times Business Section about fraudulent Companies offering to assist you in refinancing or restructuring your home loans. PLEASE read the article or contact your lender personally if you're having difficulty restructuring your loan.

This is a huge scam that has found its way into the real estate business. Please use caution and call us if you need the name of a reputable lender.

Serving - Los Angeles area including Westside, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Malibu, Marina Del Rey, Venice, Mar Vista, Palms, Culver City, Century City, Beach Cities, West Hollywood, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista and beyond. . .

Let us help you relocate to a new home or property in Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz and Hancock Park as well as the Los Angeles County areas. We can direct you to a church or synagogue, a hotel, local news, maps, city info, city statistics, and more - everything you need to become familiar with any of these beautiful areas.

We are never too busy for your referrals. If you or friends are looking to buy or sell... We're here.

Have a great Tuesday and continue to enjoy and love Los Angeles. CU Tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 10-26-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:51:38 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 10-26-09

It's Monday and here we go again. It was a great sports weekend although I couldn't watch the Angel -Yankee game which the Halos lost. Kurt Warner, he's the man. The Cardinals defeat the Giants. Don't forget Monday Night Football. The Series starts Wednesday on Fox.

The weather today a lot like yesterday-70's to the 90's depending on where you are in relation to the coast.

Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to Facebook and search "Paraquat Kelley Video" and it will come up looking something like this; 2009-10-24_0924. It's fun.

The Market is open and the DOW is above 10,000 this morning.

Open Houses had a moderate attendance this weekend past.

We are never too busy for your referrals. If you or a friend are looking to buy or sell... We're here.

Have a Monday and continue to enjoy and love Los Angeles. CU Tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 10-24-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 09:53:16 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 10-24-09

It's Saturday and that means; http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your computer screen. Yeah home shopping from your laptop. Calll us if we can be of assistance,

Notre Dame plays today, USC and UCLA. At 4:45 the Angels take on the Yankees. It's going to be a great sports day.

Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to FACEBOOK.COM search Paraquat Kelley Joke and blog and it will come up. It's fun.

Another perfect day, sunny 60's to the 90's from the beaches inland. LA Times reports Home Sales up 9.4% the biggest monthly jump in 26 years. We had that story on the video blog yesterday.

News from Councilman Tom LaBonge:

For more information on any of the items here, please visit the Council District 4 website: www.tomlabonge.com

- Councilmember LaBonge is proud to dedicate the beautiful new track and field at his alma mater, John Marshall High School today. The dedication ceremony begins at 5 p.m., just before the Barristers face the Lincoln High School Tigers in the Homecoming football game at 6 p.m. The Marshall track was short when the school opened in 1931; grading and irrigation problems on the football field's end zones caused frequent problems for players. Councilmember LaBonge has been wanting to see this facility standardized for 40 years. Please join him for a pre-event tour at 4 p.m. See the attached flier.

- Tom voted to support the Wilshire subway project after being sworn in as a temporary METRO board member yesterday. He filled in for Councilmember Jose Huizar who was unable to attend. The board re-affirmed its plan to apply for federal funding for the Subway to the Sea, which will provide a much-needed link between the Westside and the rest of the Metro system, via a Wilshire Boulevard subway line. If Metro, a County agency, receives federal funding for this project, the subway could be completed in as little as ten years.

- The Los Angeles Police Department's new headquarters will be open to the public for tours tomorrow. The new building is directly across the street from City Hall at the 100 West First Street, Downtown. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Police Chief William Bratton will lead opening day ceremonies at 10 a.m. For more information, visit the LAPD website: http://www.lapdonline.org/newsroom/news_view/43148

- The public is welcome to see and touch the largest section of the Berlin Wall outside of its home city. It is on display now at 5900 West Wilshire Boulevard in the Miracle Mile.

- Councilmember LaBonge is happy to co-sponsor nature education programs at four Silver Lake elementary schools through the Wildwoods Foundation. Thank you to the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council for matching CD4's $1,000 donation for the Full Circle program, which teaches fifth graders about the parallels between nature and human behavior. For more information on the Full Circle program, visit the Wildwoods Foundation website: http://www.wildwoodsfoundation.org/FullCircle.htm

- Thank you to everyone who volunteered to help John Marshall High School seniors with their college applications. Organizers at the school were overwhelmed by the positive response from LaBonge News readers. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of the students and the entire community.

Have a great weekend and continue to enjoy and love Los Angeles. CU Tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 10-23-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 10:11:37 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 10-23-09

Friday and I'm still holding my breath. Did you see the Angel game? New York at bat top of the 9^th, 2 outs, and bases loaded. 7-6 the score a 3-2 count... Talk about drama. A fly ball to right for out number 3 and the Angels stay alive. Tomorrow in New York where there's a 90 percent chance of rain with temps in the low 50's the series continues.

Meantime for us; Sunshine upper 60's at the beaches, upper 70's downtown and upper 80's inland. Another beautiful day... Be sure to check out our daily video blog. Go to facebook search Paraquat Kelley Joke and blog and it will come up. It's fun.

Got some real estate news for you:

Welcome to C.A.R.'s Market Matters, your weekly market response guide.

C.A.R. Mortgage Update

For mortgages, 620 is the new magic number
Near historic low mortgage rates, favorable home prices, and the federal tax credit for first-time home buyers have contributed to home purchases in the past year. However, the onset of the credit crisis, new regulations for home appraisals, and more stringent guidelines for purchases and refinances have resulted in confusion for some potential home buyers.

While using a mortgage broker to find the best loan may work for some buyers, it may not always be the best route. In the past, mortgage brokers could "shop" a loan to multiple lenders to help find the best deal. However, new practices and procedures under the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) have hampered mortgage brokers' abilities, namely that lenders may no longer accept home appraisals commissioned by brokers. As a result, consumers may have to pay for new appraisals with each lender, which costs time and money. However, consumers who are very busy or need guidance may find that working with a mortgage broker is the easiest solution.

Qualifying for a mortgage under current lender standards is more difficult nowadays than in years past. Beginning Nov. 1 or Dec. 12, depending on the type of loan, Fannie Mae is tightening its lending standards to the 620 credit score benchmark-including loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration and Veterans Affairs. Borrowers with credit scores of less than 620 will find it very difficult to qualify for a mortgage. However, to qualify for the best rates, consumers generally need credit scores of 720 and must have verifiable, steady income.

As for loan type, most real estate professionals agree that a fixed-rate mortgage is the best choice for buyers and refinancers.

To read the full story, please click here.

To view additional articles, which also may be of interest to clients in the market for a new home loan, loan modification, or mortgage refinance, please visit the following:

Long-term Obama loan modifications prove elusive
To read the full story, please click here.

Mortgage applications drop again as rates climb
To read the full story, please click here.

U.S. mortgage rates rise for second consecutive week

To read the full story, please click here.

Finally rom Melody and me:

We just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your referrals. It's clients like you who allow us to continue serving the real estate community with such pride, and for that we appreciate you.

If you know anyone looking to buy or sell real estate, I'm ready to serve them. Feel free to have them call or email us.

Pat & Melody Kelley

Phone 323 876 5636
Office 310 888 3357

mrpk1@pacbell.net

http://www.patandmelody.com

Nourmand & Associates
421 N Beverly Dr. #200
Beverly Hills, CA 91202

Have a great day and see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 10-22-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:40:08 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 10-22-09

A daily Video Blog is available by going to Facebook. In the search window type in: Paraquat Kelley and a page with a link will appear. Thanks.

It's Thursday and the Phillies are the ones drinking the champagne as the Dodgers lose. It's too bad for what might have been. You notice the sports page with all of the "experts" telling us why and how the Dodgers lost. Rather than celebrate another successful season they focus on the negative. That's the world we live in today.

Sunshine upper 60's at the beaches, upper 70's downtown and upper 80's inland. Another beautiful day... Who knows, maybe the weather will help LA's other team.

The Angels get another crack at the Yankees today at home. Speaking of homes... the Fast Facts are in:

Fast Facts
Calif. median home price - August 09: $292,960 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region August 09: Santa Barbara So. Coast $828,750 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region August 09: High Desert $111,770 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Second Quarter 2009: 67 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 10/15/09 30-yr. fixed: 4.92% Fees/points: 0.7% 15-yr. fixed: 4.37% Fees/points: 0.7% 1-yr. adjustable: 4.60% Fees/points: 0.5% (Source: Freddie Mac)

Thanks for stopping by our daily blog.

Let us help you relocate to a new home or property in Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, Los Feliz and Hancock Park as well as the Los Angeles County areas. We can direct you to a church or synagogue, a hotel, local news, maps, city info, city statistics, and more - everything you need to become familiar with any of these beautiful areas.

If we can help you, give us a shout! Have a great day as it will be a great day to have.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 10/21/09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:15:39 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 10/21/09

A Hump Day and the weather we all love is coming back. Enjoy it because you live in Paradise.

The weather is the news maker here is So Cal that and home prices, The baseball playoffs are not the big news. Both the Dodgers and Angels are on the verge of elimination we're sorry to report; Let's try a test of that theory. Go Yankees/Go Phillies. Hopefully the curse will work. From the President of CAR: The upshot; prices rise! Here's the letter to California Realtors: Oct. 20, 2009

Dear C.A.R. Member:

2009 has been a thought-provoking year for the real estate industry in California, both for REALTORS® and for our clients. In many instances, it has been a year without precedent. Like most of you, I've wondered what 2010 will bring. Many of my questions and concerns were addressed at the opening luncheon during CALIFORNIA REALTOR® EXPO 2009. C.A.R. Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young deftly navigated her way through the Association's official forecast for the 2010 housing market, putting today's market into historical perspective and setting the stage for the future.

The upshot is that, statewide, we can expect the median home price to rise 3.3 percent to $280,000 in 2010, while sales will moderate to a more sustainable pace, posting a 2.3 percent decrease next year. 2010 should mark the beginning of a "new normal" for California's housing market, and likely will feature a steady stream of sales driven by distressed properties in the low end of the market, coupled with moderate home-price appreciation.

C.A.R.'s forecast was widely reported in the news media, and we've posted our news release online. You'll also find links to Leslie's PowerPoint presentation and a chart tracking the trend in home-price appreciation since the 1970s.

The 2009 market presented a unique opportunity for first-time home buyers. Homes were more affordable than they have been in years, interest rates hovered near historic lows, and the federal tax credit helped more than 1 million people become homeowners nationwide.

Unfortunately, the federal tax credit for first-time home buyers is set to expire next month on Nov. 30. Yet research shows that the First-time Home Buyer Tax Credit arguably has been the most successful component of the federal government's efforts to stimulate the U.S. economy. According to a study conducted by C.A.R. to gauge the role the federal tax credit played in the California market, nearly 40 percent of first-time home buyers reported they would not have purchased a home without the tax credit. Nearly 70 percent of recent first-time home buyers surveyed said the tax credit was "the most important" or a "very important" factor in their decision to buy a home. You can access the study online.

As the expiration date for this successful program looms, it is imperative that all REALTORS® take action by contacting their congressional representative today, and urge them to extend this vital home-buying incentive. It's easy to do. Call (800) 961-3302, enter your NRDS ID, and you'll be directly connected to the office of your congressional representative. Ask your congressional representative to vote for extending the First-time Home Buyer Tax Credit through 2010 and to include all home buyers -- not just first-timers. Historically, housing has led the nation out of economic downturns, and can do so again. Clearly, the tax credit played a critical role in driving home sales this year and in making the dream of homeownership a reality for many. By contacting our congressional representatives, we can make a difference in Washington, and help ensure the successful passage of this critical legislation.

Your Governmental Affairs staff monitors almost 3,000 pieces of proposed legislation each year that may have a direct impact on the real estate industry and your ability to conduct your business. It's more important now than ever to become involved in the political process - but more about that next time I write to you. Until then, don't forget to exercise your right to vote Nov. 3.

Sincerely, James Liptak, 2009 President- CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Have a great Wednesday and see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 10-20-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:28:57 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 10-20-09

(link for video blog will be here later)

Tuesday! Fog and low clouds along coast giving way to partial sunshine. 60's at the beaches and 70's-low 80's inland.

It's been said that golf is a cruel, cruel game. For the Dodgers; baseball is cruel. The Philly's snatch victory from the jaws of defeat in the bottom of the ninth with 2 outs leaving the Dodgers stunned. I'm watching Monday Night Football, House and the game switching channels and with 2 out in the 9^th... I'm confident the game's in the bag, I was shocked!

Meanwhile the Angels win in a tense one with the Yankees. And then San Diego loses. You need help picking winners? Pick the team playing the team I'm rooting; you can't lose.

REAL ESTATE NEWS:

You can now view our video blog and dumb joke on a daily basis by clicking on the link above. Thanks for doing so and thanks for sending us your jokes via email.

Day light savings ends later this week meaning Halloween is coming. We have some safety tips provided by the LAFD.

Halloween Safety Tips... From the Fire Dept.

BEFORE HALLOWEEN:

Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.

When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.

This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.

Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.

Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.

Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.

Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.

LAFD - Halloween Safety Tips 10/17/09 10:07 PM http://lafd.org/hween.htm Page 2 of 4

Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway.

Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

Learn or review CPR skills to aid someone who is choking or having a heart attack.

Consider safe party guidelines when hosting an Adult or Office Party.

Times sure have changed from when we were kids and Halloween. Anyway there you go have a great Tuesday and see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 10-19-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:00:04 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 10-19-09

(link for video blog will be here later)

Monday and here we go again. Fog and low clouds along coast giving way to partial sunshine. 60' at the beaches and 70'ss inland.

The Dodgers drubbed. The Angels host the Yankees... looks grim for both LA teams. Good Monday night football game tonight. How about that John Gruden as an analyst? He's great. Rumor has it he may be the new head coach at ND? Wouldn't that be great!

REAL ESTATE NEWS:

Open houses where about normal for the weekend in our area. Not to hot or cool. You can now view our video blog and dumb joke on a daily basis by clicking on the link above. Thanks for doing so and thanks for sending us your jokes via email.

Day light savings ends later this week meaning Halloween is coming. We have some safety tips provided by the LAPD.

Halloween Safety Tips...

1. Children should trick-or-treat during daylight hours.

2. Children should never be allowed to go out alone on Halloween.

3. Children should never eat any treats until they have been examined.

4. All fruit should be cut and and closely examined before eating.

5. Advise children that they should never enter strangers' homes.

6. Never invite children into your home.

7. Children should never accept rides from strangers.

8. Children should never take shortcuts through backyards or alleys.

9. Set a specific time limit for your children to be out on Halloween night.

10. Give wrapped homemade treats only to children you know.

11. Instruct children not to stray from their group.

12. A responsible adult should escort children while trick-or-treating.

13. Adult escorts should carry flashlights.

14. Don't leave your home unattended on Halloween night.

15. Keep pets inside your home, or other safe place on Halloween night.

16. Children should walk, not run, during their trick-or-treat activities.

17. Parents should know what route their children will be taking.

18. All costumes should be made of light-colored, fireproof material.

19. Children should wear proper fitting, comfortable costumes and shoes.

20. Props such as toy guns or swords should be made of pliable material.

21. Realistic replica firearms should never be used.

22. Masks should not be worn if they impair vision.

23. Wigs should be fireproof and should not restrict vision.

24. Children should always use sidewalks, not the street, for walking.

25. Children should look in all directions before crossing the street.

This information is provided by LAPDOnline. For more crime

prevention information contact the LAPD Crime Prevention

Section at 213-485-3134. Halloween

So there you go have a great Monday and see you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 10-18-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 10:35:05 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 10-18-09

(link for video blog will be here later)

Sunday and still here! Wow what a weekend. Football, beer, tacos, and baseball. The Irish and Angels lose. SC wins... the Dodgers play later today amid the NFL schedule.

Saturday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your computer screen. See something you like? Drop us an email.

New laws affectin California real estate transfers:

REO Buyer Can Select Escrow and Title: Effective October 11, 2009, the Buyer's Choice Act prohibits an REO lender selling residential property up to four units from directly or indirectly requiring the buyer to purchase escrow services or title insurance from any particular company. A buyer, however, who has received written notice of the right to make an independent selection, may agree to the REO lender's escrow or title recommendations. An REO lender that violates this law can be held liable for three times the charges the buyer incurred, whereas a violation by the seller's agent may be subject to license disciplinary action. This law expires on January 1, 2015. Assembly Bill 957.
No Advance Fee Loan Modifications: Starting October 11, 2009, a new law prohibits anyone from claiming any compensation for negotiating or arranging a loan modification until after that person fully performs each and every service as promised. Aimed at combating loan modification scams, this ban applies to upfront fees collected by real estate agents and attorneys. The ban expires on January 1, 2013. Also effective immediately, anyone who negotiates or arranges a loan modification must give the borrower a specified notice that paying a third-party for loan modification services is unnecessary. These new requirements apply to mortgage loans secured by residential property up to four units, with certain exceptions for lenders and loan servicers acting on their own behalf. Violations can be penalized by, among other things, a $10,000 fine plus one-year imprisonment for individuals, or a $50,000 fine for businesses. Real estate brokers with existing Advance Fee Loan Modification Agreements reviewed by the Department of Real Estate (DRE) can no longer, as of October 11, 2009, enter into these agreements or collect advance fees. Agreements entered into and advance fees collected before October 11, 2009 are not affected. For the DRE announcement, go to http://www.dre.ca.gov/pdf_docs/SB94WebAnnouncement(brokers).pdf. Senate Bill 94.
Advance Fee Redefined: Aside from loan modifications discussed above, Senate Bill 94 also broadens the definition of an advance fee which must be specially handled by real estate agents, such as by submitting an advance fee agreement for DRE review and placing funds received into a broker's trust account. Under the new definition that took effect on October 11, 2009, agents cannot separate advance fees or services into components to avoid the advance fee requirements. More specifically, an advance fee is now defined as "a fee, regardless of the form, claimed, demanded, charged, received, or collected by a licensee from a principal before fully completing each and every service the licensee contracted to perform, or represented would be performed." Exceptions include advertisements in newspapers of general circulation, tenant prescreening fees, and tenant security deposits. Senate Bill 94.
Mortgage Loan Originators Regulated: Beginning in December 2010, a real estate licensee acting as mortgage loan originator must obtain a license endorsement, which entails education, written testing, and reporting requirements. A mortgage loan originator is anyone who, for compensation or gain, takes a mortgage loan application or offers or negotiates terms of a mortgage loan for residential property containing one-to-four units. Exemptions include real estate agents who only engage in selling, buying, or leasing activities, unless compensated by a lender or mortgage loan originator. This license endorsement requirement comports with the creation of a Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry under recent federal law. Finance lenders and residential mortgage lenders under the Department of Corporation must also register in the nationwide system. Additionally, if a real estate broker or the broker's salesperson makes, arranges, or services loans secured by residential property containing one-to-four units, the broker must notify the DRE by January 31, 2010 or within 30 days of commencing such loan activity, whichever is later. Senate Bill 36.
Mortgage Broker Activities Restricted: Commencing January 1, 2010, a mortgage broker will be deemed a fiduciary with a duty to place the borrower's economic interest above his or her own. This fiduciary duty pertains to a mortgage broker who makes loans secured by residential property of one-to-four units. Also starting January 1, 2010, the law will strictly regulate higher-priced mortgage loans as defined, including requiring upfront disclosure if a mortgage broker only arranges higher-priced mortgage loans, restricting prepayment penalties and yield spread premiums, prohibiting negative amortization, and prohibiting mortgage brokers from steering borrowers to higher-cost loans. Assembly Bill 260.
Appraisal Industry Oversight: The Office of Real Estate Appraisers (OREA) will have regulatory oversight of appraisal management companies, which gained prominence after Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac adopted the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC). Starting January 1, 2010, the OREA must implement a registration system for appraisal management companies, including fingerprinting and background checks for persons with operational authority as defined. On a separate note, this law clarifies what conduct constitutes improperly influencing the appraisal process by anyone with an interest in a real estate transaction. Such prohibited conduct includes withholding or threatening to withhold an appraisal fee, withholding or threatening to withhold future appraisal business, and promising future business, promotions, or compensation. Senate Bill 237.
Mortgage Fraud Becomes a State Crime: As of January 1, 2010, anyone who deliberately makes any misrepresentation or omission during the mortgage lending process with the intent of influencing that process will be guilty of mortgage fraud under California law. A violation of this law is a crime punishable by one-year imprisonment. Under existing federal law, loan fraud against a federally-insured lender is a crime punishable by a $1 million fine, plus one-year imprisonment (18 U.S.C. section 1014). Senate Bill 239.
Increase in Homestead Exemptions: Coming into effect on January 1, 2010, the homestead exemption protecting a homeowner's equity from judgment creditors has been increased by $25,000 across the board to $75,000 for individuals, $100,000 for married couples or family units as specified, and $175,000 for persons over 65 years, disabled, or over 55 years with limited income as specified. Assembly Bill 1046.
60-Day Notice to Terminate Tenants Extended: Existing law generally requiring a 60-day notice to terminate a month-to-month residential tenant, which was originally slated to sunset on January 1, 2010, has been extended indefinitely. A 30-day notice to terminate is sufficient if the tenant has lived in the property for less than one year, or if the landlord has sold the property and certain requirements are met as specified in our standard-form Notice of Termination of Tenancy (C.A.R. Form NTT). The 60-day notice requirement does not apply to fixed-term leases, such as a one-year lease. Other laws address tenants in properties foreclosed upon. Senate Bill 290.

Other Significant Laws: Other new laws that may interest REALTORS® include, without limitation, the following:

Landlord Utilities: Requires certain utility companies to notify residential tenants of landlord's past due accounts and upcoming shutoffs, and allows tenants to begin service in their own names and deduct payment from rent (Senate Bill 120).
Mobilehome Parks: Prohibits management from requiring a homeowner to use a specific broker or dealer when replacing a mobilehome or manufactured home on a space in a mobilehome park (Senate Bill 804).
Swimming Pools: Requires anti-entrapment devices for owners of apartment buildings, condominium complexes, and others, including the filing of compliance statements (Assembly Bill 1020).
Mechanic's Liens: Provides new procedures, including service of a Notice of Mechanic's Lien to the owner and mandatory recording of a lis pendens when enforcing a mechanic's lien (Assembly Bill 457).
Low Water-Using Plants: Renders unenforceable any HOA provision prohibiting landscaping with water-efficient plants in common interest developments (Assembly Bill 1061).
Reverse Mortgages: Provides new disclosure and other requirements under the Reverse Mortgage Elder Protection Act (Assembly Bill 329).
Disposal of Records: Shields from liability businesses that dispose of abandoned records containing personal information by shredding or erasing, and gives a legal presumption that a tenant owns records remaining on the premises after tenancy termination (Assembly Bill 1094).
Plumbing Fixtures: Provides new disclosure and other requirements for water-conserving plumbing fixtures effective on or after January 1, 2014 (Senate Bill 407).

Our video blog is off and running. Thanks for emailing the jokes for the video... The blog is just beginning; who knows what going to happen because of it.

There you go... Our video blog will be posted before noon our time so come back and see us. Whoo ya!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 10-17-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 10:26:13 -0500

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 10-17-09

(link for video blog will be here later)

Saturday! The day we've been waiting for is here. Another super southern California weekend on the way! Today we post Video Blog six, featuring surprise guests. Check it out and see who shows up. I look forward to doing it again.

Dodgers win and Angels lose... Today the game we've been waiting for is on... Go Irish! That's all I'm going to say.

Saturday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your computer screen. See something you like? Drop us an email.

Thank for emailing the jokes for the video... The blog is just beginning; who knows what going to happen because of it.

Also, we're getting real estate inquiries because of the blog. Remember this-- our daily fun/real estate blog serving - Los Angeles area including Westside, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Malibu, Marina Del Rey, Venice, Mar Vista, Palms, Culver City, Century City, Beach Cities, West Hollywood, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista and beyond. .

There you go... Our video blog will be posted before noon our time so come back and see us. Whoo ya!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 10-16-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:06:22 -0500

(link for video blog will be here later)

A Finally a Friday at the Mighty Met! That's what we used to call it. Today the weather will be again like fine champagne crystal clear and sparkling. Another super southern California weekend on the way! Today we post Video Blog five I look forward to doing it again.

The Dodgers at 1 pm today followed by the Angels. Good luck. Tomorrow ND-SC.

Cal Real Estate news:

Fast Facts
Calif. median home price - August 09: $292,960 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region August 09: Santa Barbara So. Coast $828,750 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region August 09: High Desert $111,770 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Second Quarter 2009: 67 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 10/08/09 30-yr. fixed: 4.87% Fees/points: 0.7% 15-yr. fixed: 4.33% Fees/points: 0.7% 1-yr. adjustable: 4.53% Fees/points: 0.5% (Source: Freddie Mac)

Thank for emailing the jokes... The blog is just beginning; who knows what going to happen because of it. Also, getting real estate inquiries because of it. Remember; this is our daily fun/real estate blog serving - Los Angeles area including Westside, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Malibu, Marina Del Rey, Venice, Mar Vista, Palms, Culver City, Century City, Beach Cities, West Hollywood, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista and beyond. .

There you go... Our video blog will be posted before noon our time so come back and see us. Whoo ya!