My Beverly Hills Real Estate Blog

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 11-25-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:38:09 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 11-25-09

Wednesday... Plenty of sunshine again...Mid 70's at the beaches, mid 80's in the valleys. This is a holiday shortened work week! Hereare 5 reasons why we love short work weeks.

Get to sleep in.
Get to stay out late.
Get to hang with your family.
Get to hang with your friends.
Get to live your life, free as a bird.

There are many more reason, those just came to the top of my list. Anyway have a great holiday.

Have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

http://www.screencast.com/users/melodyent/folders/Jing/media/7e765f58-c1bb-4285-a94c-6e51a546849f

Meantime, have a great day and short work week. See you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-24-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:01:06 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-24-09

Tuesday ... Plenty of sunshine and plenty o warmer temps! 70's at the beaches and mid 89's inland. Dry conditions; please be careful in fire danger areas. Short work week!

My favorite TV show is House and I've finally figured out why; it's because that's what I'm doing now... Selling and buying houses. The show is okay... but the name House is fantastic. It's a subliminal mental confirmation to me that I must be doing the right thing being in real estate. A lot of people must be into real estate because House is a very popular show. Of course, I'm joking. Looking for justification and validation from the universe to demonstrate to me why I'm doing what I'm doing. Actually, what we're doing must be good. Check out this article about house prices going through the roof!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20091123/bs_nm/us_usa_economy_housing

Speaking of doing good; have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

http://screencast.com/t/MTUyYzZkMDct

Meantime, have a great day and short work week. See you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-23-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:41:17 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-23-09

Monday ... Plenty of sunshine the mid 60's at the beaches to low 70's inland... just like yesterday. Short work week! MNF tonight on ESPN... Is it an important game? Don't know. I seem to be getting tired of watching football on TV. I saw that every Monday. I guess there is little else to choose from.

Here's a question for you. Have you seen the CBS promos depicting Kate Couric as a "journalist"? Now that would be a great theme for a sitcom. Katie the Journalist. She is depicted sitting at a keyboard typing (laugh track) Voice Over: When the truth is irrelevant; America turns to CBS (laugh track)

What's happening to our world? Wonder how she got the job? We know... but it's not our place to start rumors.

Speaking of journalism; you have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

http://screencast.com/t/NDUyY2JlMDEt

The Open House Sunday in the southland was robust again. Where did "robust" come from? Let's just say it was really good.

Tonight on the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric; the ongoing expose into the death of truth in broadcasting. Film at 11. See you tomorrow.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-22-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 09:52:57 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-22-09

Sunday ... Plenty of sunshine the mid 60's at the beaches to low 70's inland.

Well after yesterdays defeat at home to CT... the best way to describe ND coach Charlie Weiss: "Dead Man Walking". Those in charge of the ND football program are not very charitable when it comes to winning or losing. Next Saturday we've got SC - UCLA. The Irish travel to Stanford.

Sunday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your computer screen. See something you like, give us a call!

Propertunities? Yep, there out there. Hollywood and Highland beautiful million dollar condos being sold for half to 60% off. These are great deals and great opprotunities to get into the market. Buy now, sell later for a profit.

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

http://www.screencast.com/users/melodyent/folders/Jing/media/cf48d31e-072a-4239-9393-84e93bcd933b

While Jon Gruden hopefully accepts a job offer from ND, we wish you a great Sunday and look forward to seeing you tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 11-21-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:01:11 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 11-21-09

Saturday ... The beginning of another Super Southern California Weekend! A day with plenty of sunshine but cooler temperatures... Mid 60's in the warmer areas. The college football regular season winding down we're sad to report.

Saturday does means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your computer screen. See something you like, give us a call!

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

We see where Candy Spelling is standing firm on her asking price of 150 million dollars for the house she and her late husband built. That's 150 million! As an agent, you only need to sell one of those a year.

Well, while I scan my rolodex for a buyer for the Spelling Mansion, wish you a great Saturday and look forward to seeing you tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-20-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:35:37 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-20-09

Friday... A repeat day! A day pretty much like yesterday with morning low clouds then sunshine. 60's at the beaches and only the low 70's inland. Very cool.

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

I've got Warner Cable after over 10 years of satellite service... I guess I don't get the NFL channel because I couldn't find last night's game. Oh well, much to my surprise I awoke this morning none the worse... It's actually easy to miss a game.

Front page article about the foreclosure market. Foreclosures continue to rise. 1 out of 7 homes nationwide is delinquent in mortgage payments because of the unemployment situation. Hmmm... what about all that stimulus money? Wow...

Meantime, I've heard that in upscale areas the foreclosure rate is going down.

Here's some good news from the CNN money advisor:

Make money in 2010: Your home

Following three years of declining home prices, the end of the nationwide housing slump may be in sight. Home sales consistently have been rising, the surplus of houses is shrinking, and most economists believe home values nationwide will hit bottom in the second half of 2010-but not before declining an additional five to 10 percent. That's good news for homeowners hoping to sell or rebuild lost equity.

MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY FOR CONSUMERS

Mortgage rates currently are below 5 percent, and should remain low for the next few months, partially due to the Federal Reserve's ongoing purchase of mortgage-backed securities. However, if the economy quickly turns around and inflation fears resurface, rates could rise to as high as 6.5 percent, slowing demand and pushing down home values.

According to one analyst, the market will remain tilted in favor of buyers over the next year, but that power gradually will be reduced as conditions in the housing market continue to improve.

Buyers hoping to purchase or invest in a lower-priced, entry-level home should expect some competition from investors and other buyers. To remain competitive, buyers are advised to put down as much cash as possible, as many investors are offering to make all-cash deals. Another factor to keep in mind is that offers below listing price often are outbid by others.

Some home sellers are postponing listing their homes until the market recovers. However, timing the market is difficult, so homeowners thinking of selling should carefully weigh their options. Congress recently expanded the federal tax credit to include some existing homeowners, but they must close before June 30, 2010 to qualify. Although existing homeowners are not required to sell their current home to qualify for the credit, those who plan to rent out their current residences should be aware that many lenders require borrowers to show they are financially capable of paying two mortgages, or show rental income for at least six months. Discretionary sellers should discuss their options with a REALTOR® before making a decision.

That's it for today have a great one and see you Saturday!!!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 11-19-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:03:17 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 11-19-09

Thursday a day pretty much like yesterday with morning low clouds then sunshine. 60's at the beaches and only the low 70's inland. We can dig it!

I guess the final episode of V comes on next Tuesday unless I misunderstood the promo that aired after this week's show. There is a lot of stuff to resolve in the final episode.

Anyway, welcome to our blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

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 - Third Quarter 2009: 64 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 11/12/09 30-yr. fixed: 4.91% Fees/points: 0.7% 15-yr. fixed: 4.36% Fees/points: 0.6% 1-yr. adjustable: 4.46% Fees/points: 0.6% (Source: Freddie Mac)

That's it for today have a great one and see you Friday!!!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 11-18-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:50:51 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Wednesday 11-18-09

Wednesday with morning low clouds then sunshine. 60's at the beaches and only the low 70's inland. Must be getting close to LA wintertime. We love living in paradise.

Are you watching "V" on TV? It's the new ABC series about visitors from outer space who "come in peace" but have different plans. Pretty interesting. It started off pretty well but now after 3 episodes is getting pretty confusing... but I still want to know how it ends.

Anyway, welcome to our blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

Real Estate news: Good info. to report today!

Median price of southland homes goes up 1.8*% in October signaling to some, the optimists the housing downtrend is over. This is a good sign that we're on our way back... and have been for months now, that's our take on it. Full details in the LA Time front page article. In Orange County it was the 7^th consecutive rise in home prices. Prices up 1.7%

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

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-17-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:09:43 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-17-09

Tuesday and abundant sunshine for the area with seasonably cooler temps. That means; near 70 at the beaches and into the mid 70's inland. Nice huh? Living in paradise has its benefits.

Welcome to our blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

I think Jon Gruden will make an excellent head coach at Notre Dame. Can't wait.

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

FOR CA REAL ESTATE AGENTS FROM CAR:

C.A.R. is rolling out new and newly revised standard forms today. These forms have been added to our large catalog of forms provided as a member benefit to help REALTORS® conduct their real estate business.

Most notable among the forms being released is a revised Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationships (Form AD). The revised AD form aims at ending the confusion surrounding the form by allowing a buyer's agent to use just one form for both the seller and buyer to sign. REALTORS® may now handle the delivery of the AD form in either of two ways:

Alternative A: Agents may continue the existing practice of generating three AD forms in a typical transaction. The first AD form is generally signed by the listing agent and seller before entering into a listing agreement. Absent dual agency, the second AD form is generally signed by a buyer's agent and buyer before writing an offer. The third AD form is generally signed by the buyer's agent and seller. An AD form signed by the buyer's agent and seller does not create an agency relationship between the buyer's agent and seller because the AD form is merely an information sheet. The actual confirmation of agency is stated separately in paragraph 27C of the C.A.R. Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA).
Alternative B: The procedure for Alternative B is stated in the explanation box at the bottom of the newly revised AD (revised 11/09). Agents will still prepare the first and second AD forms stated in Alternative A. The buyer's agent, however, may now deliver to the seller the second AD form signed by the buyer's agent and buyer. The seller may sign acknowledgement of receipt of that AD form on the signature line in the explanation box. No third AD form is needed under Alternative B.

Other new and newly revised C.A.R. standard forms include the following:

REO Advisories (Forms REO and REOL): These forms have been revised to inform the seller and buyer of the new Buyer's Choice Act that came into effect on October 11, 2009. Under this new California law, an REO lender selling residential property up to four units cannot require a buyer to purchase escrow services or title insurance from any particular company. Forms REO and REOL also clarify that the real estate brokers involved in a transaction do not require the buyer to purchase escrow or title services from any particular provider.
Property Management Addendum: This new form authorizes a property manager to withhold funds from the broker's trust account to submit to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB). C.A.R. created this form in response to the FTB's announcement that, effective January 1, 2010, it will begin enforcing an existing law requiring property managers to withhold and send to the FTB seven percent of income payments to certain out-of-state property owners. For more information, refer to FTB's Resident and Nonresident Withholding Guidelines at http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/2009/09_1017.pdf (see, in particular, Question 70).

For a complete summary of these and other forms in C.A.R.'s November 2009 Forms Release, click here. Electronic versions of the November forms are currently available through WINForms(R) or zipForm(R) 6 at http://www.car.org/winforms/zipform6/. Printed versions of the forms will be available this week at your local boards and associations or through C.A.R.'s online store at http://store.car.org.

See you Wedcnesday!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Monday 11-16-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:05:34 -0600

Monday Sunny and about mid 60's at the beaches to mid 80's inland. It's Monday and we start all over again.

Last night's NFL game was great with the Colts winning. Tiger Woods and Michele Wie win in their respective tournaments. Guess what? More NFL action tonight and again on Thursday... Are you ready for some football? Yeah, some football... If this is some, I'd hate to see a lot.

Yesterday's Open House Sunday was "moderate" according to our sources.

According to a post in the Orange County Register; more foreclosures and short sales hit the area market.

From the AP:

By STEPHEN OHLEMACHER, Associated Press Writer Stephen Ohlemacher, Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON - More than 15 million taxpayers could unexpectedly owe taxes when they file their federal returns next spring because the government was too generous with their new Making Work Pay tax credit.

Taxpayers are at risk if they have more than one job, are married and both spouses work, or receive Social Security benefits while also earning taxable wages, according to a report Monday by the Treasury Department's inspector general for tax administration

Welcome to our blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

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

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-15-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:59:54 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Sunday 11-15-09

Sunday... Sunny and warmer. Mid 60's at the beaches to mid 80's inland, Low humidity; that means fire danger. Be careful with things that could spark a fire` Welcome to our blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com .

Had a great time at the Equestrian Center Grand Prix last night. Better time than USC and ND had. UCLA wailed on Washington. Pro football today. And as you know; Sunday means: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ec29d8bc#/ec29d8bc/1 See the open houses from your computer screen. See something? Call us.

LA Times Business Section article on how you may qualify for a tax credit on a real estate purchase. Most important; property cannot be more than 800,000. Check it out.

You have to see our daily video blog which is posted around noon time on www.paraquatkelley.com everyday. Click on Podcasts (right top of page). Stop by and check us out... and send us a joke!

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

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 11-14-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 09:45:28 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Saturday 11-14-09

Saturday... Cool across the southland today, low to mid 60's and cool at night... 40's even 30's in some areas. Welcome to our blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com . We are going to the Equestrian Center tonight for another Grand Prix event. Come on by if you're in the area. ND, UCLA and SC play today.

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

Finally, 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.)

Have a great day. It will be a great day to have.

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!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-13-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:49:12 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Friday 11-13-09

Partly cloudy all day with a slim chance of showers... That's the forecast for Finally A Friday. Low to mid 60's all across the southland again today. Welcome to the daily blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com A finally A Fish Report with a Beat Friday.

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! Also we are working on a way to broadcast Fish Reports on the web.

Good news/Bad news: According to this morning's LA Times... The organization that keeps track of mortgages nationally reports an increase in application. The bad news; the increase is for refinancing and not new buyers. That's nationally. Here things seem to be getting better. Who knows? Personally, I'm becoming a little skeptical of all these Obama Stimulus Packages. Spending money to get out of debt?

Here' a local broker we know:

It continues to be an excellent time to buy a house: The tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence has been extended to April 30, 2010. In addition, a tax credit of $6,500 has been established for qualified move-up/repeat home buyers (existing homeowners) purchasing a principal residence before April 30, 2010. Click here to find very detailed information on these two programs to see if you qualify. Contact me at anytime to get pre-approved.

During last week's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, the Fed decided to not to raise the key funds rate which directly affects the prime rate. This means variable rates on Home Equity Lines of Credit will remain unchanged.

A total of more than 937,000 foreclosures were reported in the third quarter (July-September), the largest of any quarter in history. If the housing market is driving our economic recovery, then we may not be as close as some believe.

Mortgage rates continue to show minimal volatility. Rates on conforming loans of up to $417,000 ranged from 4.625-5.25% over the past quarter. Rates on loans greater than $417,000 (aka jumbo conforming or agency jumbo loans) up to $729,750 are in the mid-5's.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE (ARM), HOW ABOUT A RATE OF 3.75%????

Lenders continue to offer outstanding rates and great loan programs. We are even seeing lenders who are getting back to offering jumbo loan amounts of $1,000,000 or more at very competitive rates. This is a good sign to see them get back to funding large loans at reasonable rates.

However, guidelines are continuing to make it tougher for some borrowers. They are changing regularly, and we anticipate others coming on January 1. Now is the time to take advantage of low rates.
Thank you to our veterans young and old for preserving our freedom!

South Bay Equity Lending continues to focus on the strength of the mortgage industry - those companies who want to be in the business of lending money. Please feel free to contact me to discuss any of your RESIDENTIAL or COMMERCIAL loan needs.

CHRIS TURKMANY
SOUTH BAY EQUITY LENDING
20300 S. Vermont Ave., Suite 210
Torrance, CA 90502
(310) 516-3444 phone
(310) 516-3443 fax
(310) 436-6169 e-Fax
(310) 200-8021 cell

Thanks Chris!

That's it for today, see you tomorrow! Don't forget to have a great day. Peace.

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 11-12-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:42:16 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Thursday 11-12-09

Cloudy all day with a slim chance of showers... That's the forecast for this Thursday. Low to mid 60's all across the southland. Welcome to the daily blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com

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!

Here's an observation: Personally I have noticed a relation between watching violent films and weird dreams. Does that happen to you? Are TV commercials, series, video games and movies getting more graphic with violence or is it just me? It seems to me we are growing anger through these mediums. We've seemed to have devolved as a species... Instead of learning from our mistakes, war, hatred and violence we are nurturing those conditions through media. What do you think?

Enough pondering; got some Real Estate news you can use from CAR:

That's it for today, see you tomorrow! Don't forget to have a great day. Peace.

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

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:51:09 -0600

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

How does 60-70's at the beaches, 70-80's inland sound? Sounds like Hump Day to me! Welcome to the daily blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com . 11-11 is Veterans Day. Our hats off and prayers to those serving and those who served this great country of ours.

Open house for brokers yesterday. Prices fall 11.2% nationally from a year ago according to the National Association of Realtors... but in the last quarter prices have risen 11% from the previous period. What does it mean? Prices are holding steady over the bumps in the market for the most part.

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!

Power to the people!!!

A note to realtors from CAR President James Liptak:

The past few weeks have been very favorable for home buyers, our profession, and the real estate industry. President Obama on Friday signed a bill extending and expanding the federal tax credit for home buyers through April 30, 2010, and on Oct. 30 signed a resolution extending the current limits for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and FHA loans through the end of next year.

These successes were a teaching moment for us all on the impact we can make in Washington when we unite behind a common cause. We called for action, and you delivered. California REALTORS^® placed nearly 25,000 calls or e-mails to their congressional representatives, urging them to extend and expand the home buyer tax credit. Passage of legislation critical to our profession also underscored the importance of being politically involved, at the local, state, and national levels. It's why I've been personally involved in our Association's advocacy efforts for many years, and why I back up my commitment with an annual contribution to the REALTOR^® Action Fund.

During challenging economic times, every level of government is on the hunt for additional revenues. Their sights often turn to our industry and the real estate transaction as an as-yet-untapped revenue stream. That's why our involvement and political contributions are even more critical in the current fiscal atmosphere. If you aren't now an active participant in the political process, I hope you'll join me and give serious consideration to writing a check, making a call, or stepping up your involvement in some way. Your actions help ensure that your best interests are front and center in Sacramento and Washington.

That's it for today, see you tomorrow!

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-10-09

Pat & Melody Kelley (Nourmand & Associates) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:14:15 -0600

The Beverly Hills Real Estate blog Tuesday 11-10-09

Tuesday is here and with it some high clouds. Around 70 at the beaches and mid 80's the further you travel inland. Welcome of to the daily blog posted daily by www.patandmelody.com . 11-10 today's date bring any memories to mind? For me 11-10 means Radio 11-10 KRLA. A fun rock and rolling am station from the past.

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!

Big news story in today's LA Times about a burglary ring busted after casing houses posted on the web by people selling pictures of celebrity homes. We mentioned earlier on this site about the pros and cons of virtual tours for real estate purposes. It certainly is something to think about.

Meantime here is the link again to the US Postal Service to help you protect your mail from theft.

Subject: CRIME ALERT--MAIL THEFT

MAIL THEFT US Postal Service

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

ID Theft Check List

http://www.oispp.ca.gov/consumer_privacy/consumer/documents/pdf/cis3english.pdf

United States Postal Inspection Service

https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/

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

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.