I Rolled the Dice with Active Rain and I'm Winning - 03/31/08 07:19 PM
 
 
Last week my real estate career reminded me of a trip to Vegas.  It started out with much promise and anticipation that did not come to fruition on Friday, but my gambling habit at the Active Rain Casino is saving me big bucks, and it is more fun than any online game!
 
I'm working with several people from my Sphere of Influence, and their recent calls to me reminded me of the importance of working that dependable SOI.  I even sent a letter to my clients last week thanking them for their business.  I also tucked my blog address in and … (24 comments)

Palos Verdes Real Estate Market Update - Where are We on This Ride? - 03/29/08 10:41 PM
The Palos Verdes real estate market is picking up steam as we head into the prime selling months.  I was happy to see numbers this strong for the end of March 2008.
 
There are currently 234 Single Family Homes on the market in the Peninsula cities of Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Palos Verdes Estates and Rancho Palos Verdes.
 
Now for the good news:  There are 73 Single Family Homes under contract and 67 Single Family Homes have closed escrow in 2008!  
 
This represents a balanced market--not a buyer's market and not a seller's market. Finally, this is a market for … (0 comments)

Be Careful Your Brand Doesn't Burn You - 03/28/08 07:33 PM

 
I met a woman at an open house a few weeks ago and her comment gave me reason to evaluate the marketing of me!
 
 She said she didn't know I listed condos or she would have called me to list hers.  She went on to add she thought I only sold in an upscale area and would not have the time to sell her little starter condo.  This conversation took place at a charming little bungalow in a trendy but not upscale area.
 
Oops.  I had to wonder--is my brand burning me?  Am I limiting my appeal by advertising my expertise in equestrian estates and … (22 comments)

Palos Verdes Estates Real Estate Market Update - 03/24/08 05:39 PM
As we near the end of the first quarter of 2008 real estate activity is on the increase in Palos Verdes Estates.
There are currently 56 Single Family Homes on the market.
20 Single Family Homes are in Escrow.
11 Single Family Homes sold YTD.
Sold properties ranged from a low of $925,000 to a high of $2,610,000.
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Torrance, Lomita, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach … (2 comments)

You're Being Interviewed While You Sleep - 03/23/08 06:52 PM
 
It's past midnight; do you know where your prospective buyers and sellers are?  Chances are you are being interviewed while you sleep. 
 
Your information is posted, and prospective customers can answer most of their initial questions without ever speaking to you. They've studied your Active Rain resume. They know where you work, your areas of expertise, your experience, your professional affiliations and have read the testimonials of your raving fans.
 
 After browsing through your blog they have a good idea of your dedication and passion for your work.  If you have offered enough transparency, they know your work habits, your values … (24 comments)

Rolling Hills, CA Homes for Sale and Sold - 03/20/08 03:21 PM
Rolling Hills is a gated equestrian community located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.  Here is an update on the real estate market in Rolling Hills as of March 19, 2008.
18 Single Family Homes are currently for sale.
6 Single Family Homes are currently in escrow.
There are no closed sales for 2008 YTD.
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Torrance, Lomita, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach.
… (0 comments)

Palos Verdes Daily Photo - Malls - 03/20/08 03:08 PM
The Palos Verdes Peninsula is primarily a residential area, but there are several strip malls and one large mall located in the Peninsula Center at the top of The Hill.  You don't have to leave the area to attend a movie, dine at a fine restaurant or shop. 
Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware are two popular stores along with many other speciality shops.  The Peninsula Center area is also the primary location of medical and dental offices on The Hill.
If you love the big mall experience, Del Amo Fashion Mall is only minutes away in Torrance, CA.  If upscale fashion … (0 comments)

Rolling Hills Estates Homes for Sale and Sold! - 03/19/08 06:15 PM
Here is the real estate market update for mid-March 2008 for Rolling Hills Estates:
16 Single Family Homes are currently for sale
7 Single Family Homes are currently in escrow
8 Single Family Homes sold in 2008 YTD
These are my really simple statistics--if you would like a more detailed report, contact me.
*Note:  Condo and Town House statistics are not included in this report.
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, … (0 comments)

Rancho Palos Verdes Homes for Sale and Sold! - 03/19/08 06:04 PM
Here's a mid-month update on the number of homes currently for sale in Rancho Palos Verdes.  Statistics are also given for number of homes in escrow and number of homes sold in 2008.
Rancho Palos Verdes Real Estate Update:
139 single family homes are currently for sale
40 single family homes are in escrow
34 single family homes sold in 2008 YTD
The real estate market may not be sizzling in Rancho Palos Verdes, but it remains strong.
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate … (0 comments)

Warning! Some Open House Attendees are Looking for More than a House - 03/19/08 05:30 PM
It's springtime and open house signs are in bloom throughout neighborhoods on the Palos Verdes Peninsula and throughout the South Bay. 
Unfortunately, some of the weekend warrior home shoppers are really robbers looking for an easy target.  Here's the reminder email from my corporate office:
Please be careful
 
A young well dressed couple driving a Silver BMW showed up at an open house in the Hollywood Rivera.  One of them kept the agent busy, while the other one robbed the house.  Please be careful and remind your clients to lock up their valuables. 
 
I'll be more careful this weekend.  Happy Easter and happy … (6 comments)

Palos Verdes Daily Photo - RAT Beach - 03/18/08 08:14 PM
Palos Verdes is best known for its spectacular bluffs and cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.  However, RAT Beach is a favorite with the locals.  Located at the south end of Torrance Beach and accessible from Palos Verdes Estates, the beach is a popular spot during the summer months. 
It's also a great place for a walk!
Norma Toering and Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty (310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate, property, houses and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Torrance, … (2 comments)

Palos Verdes Daily Photo--Wayfarers Chapel - 03/17/08 05:56 PM
Located in Rancho Palos Verdes the Wayfarers Chapel is one of my favorite places on the entire peninsula.  With a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and nestled amid 3.5 acres of towering redwood trees, rose garden and meandering walking paths the glass and stone building is a prime example of organic architecture.
Chapel architect Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright, designed the structure as a "tree chapel" set in the midst of a forest.  It effortlessly combines nature and spirituality.  I sought comfort and peace there more than once while my son was serving in Iraq.
There's always something wonderful happening … (5 comments)

Palos Verdes Daily Photo --Beaches - 03/15/08 05:29 PM
Palos Verdes has a few sandy beaches along with many cliffs that tower above the shoreline.  This is a strip of beach in Rancho Palos Verdes accessible from the Trump National Golf Course public trails. 
 It's a great place for a morning jog, exercising your dog, or searching for seashells and sea glass.  If you're in the mood for something a little more zen, there are numerous rocks to sit upon while you watch the rhythmic motion of the waves.  Blissful indeed!

Norma Toering and Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty (310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles … (6 comments)

Palos Verdes Daily Photo - 03/14/08 08:28 PM
Palos Verdes is so beautiful this time of year! I want to share a photo I snapped on my morning walk.  I've lived here for nearly twenty years and the natural beauty is still capable of taking my breath away.
This photo was taken at Trump National Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes.  The public hiking trails hug the coast and there's a photo opportunity around every bend. 
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty
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Boitano Palms - Boitano Palms Video - … (4 comments)

Coastal Artist's Retreat with Studio - San Pedro, CA - 03/13/08 05:59 PM
San Pedro is blossoming with new condos and lofts in the revitalized downtown area. Art galleries, small boutiques and shops are sprouting up as well.  San Pedro is one of the most affordable coastal towns in Southern California.
 This remodeded  3 bedroom charmer is located in the Point Fermin neighborhood. A separate studio currently functions as an office. Enjoy ocean breezes from the deck and very private back yard.  The kitchen is upscale with stainless appliances and many designer touches.  Hardwood floors, tropical landscaping and a two car garage plus two car carport provide ample parking.  Just reduced to $649,000.
Norma Toering and Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty … (0 comments)

The Days are Long, the Years are Short - 03/13/08 09:50 AM
As we near the end of the first quarter of another year, I find it remarkable that April is almost upon us. Although I must admit there have been a few very long real estate days during the past few months, the weeks and months are flying by.
 I often have to write a note to myself to slow down and enjoy the moment.  Life is more than work, but we spend a large part of our life working.  Little moments of pleasure and joy incorporated into our workday can enhance the quality of our lives.  Here are few little pleasures I've … (9 comments)

Strangers and Vacant Houses: Another Agent Assaulted - 03/09/08 02:35 PM
Last week a California real estate agent was forced at gunpoint to enter a vacant house in Corona by a prospective buyer.  Per the news report, the agent had an appointment to show the home and when she arrived he pulled a gun, and forced her inside the property where she was assaulted, robbed and stabbed repeatedly.
The availability of vacant homes coupled with tight economic times will more than likely increase the number of crimes against agents.  Especially if we continue to meet strangers at vacant properties.
Last week I had a "strange" call from a blocked phone number.  A very friendly guy said … (21 comments)

Downtown San Pedro Revitalization and Revisiting Open House Concept - 03/07/08 10:56 AM
Yesterday I stopped by my listing to drop off more fliers and place an Open Saturday 1-4 sign.  The sellers wanted to take several fliers with them last night and distribute them in the Art District of San Pedro at the First Thursday Event.  I love it when a seller wants to become actively involved, so I rushed to Kinkos and delivered the papers hot off the press! 
 
The first Thursday of every month the art galleries and shops hold a huge open house in downtown San Pedro.  Old San Pedro comes to life with people meandering in and out of unique … (9 comments)

Rancho Palos Verdes Homes for Sale: Steals, Deals and Delicious Discoveries - 03/05/08 07:30 PM
On Tuesday mornings I leave my heels in the closet and slip on a comfortable pair of flats before I embark upon a mad dash around the Palos Verdes Peninsula to preview new listings.  After a three hour marathon of house hunting I return to the office anxious to phone clients with potential property matches. 
I award one property "Best of the Day" and a few others receive less desirable recognition, such as "Most Overpriced" and other notes jotted down as I race around The Hill in search of a newly unveiled jewel.
This week's award for Rancho Palos Verdes goes to … (2 comments)

Rolling Hills, CA Homes for Sale: Steals, Deals and Other Delicious Discoveries - 03/05/08 07:16 PM
On Tuesday mornings I leave my heels in the closet and slip on a comfortable pair of flats before I embark upon a mad dash around the Palos Verdes Peninsula to preview new listings.  After a three hour marathon of house hunting I return to the office anxious to phone clients with potential property matches. 
I award one property "Best of the Day" and a few others receive less desirable recognition, such as "Most Overpriced" and other notes jotted down as I race around The Hill in search of a newly unveiled jewel.
This week's award for Rolling Hills properties goes to 13 … (0 comments)

Palos Verdes Peninsula Homes For Sale: Deals, Steals and Other Delicious Discoveries - 03/05/08 09:22 AM
On Tuesday mornings I leave my heels in the closet and slip on a comfortable pair of flats before I embark upon a mad dash around the Palos Verdes Peninsula to preview new listings.  After a three hour marathon of house hunting I return to the office anxious to phone clients with potential property matches. 
I award one property "Best of the Day" and a few others receive less desirable recognition, such as "Most Overpriced" and other notes jotted down as I race around The Hill in search of a newly unveiled jewel.
This week's award for the unincorporated area of the … (0 comments)

Palos Verdes Estates Homes For Sale: Steals, Deals and Delicious Discoveries - 03/05/08 09:00 AM
On Tuesday mornings I leave my heels in the closet and slip on a comfortable pair of flats before I embark upon a mad dash around the Palos Verdes Peninsula to preview new listings.  After a three hour marathon of house hunting I return to the office anxious to phone clients with potential property matches. 
I award one property "Best of the Day" and a few others receive less desirable recognition, such as "Most Overpriced" and other notes jotted down as I race around The Hill in search of a newly unveiled jewel.
This week the Palos Verdes Estates award goes to --drum … (6 comments)

Timeless Advice on Pricing from Donald Trump - 03/03/08 04:52 PM
While sorting through some books I plan to donate to charity I came upon Donald Trump's Think Like a Billionaire.  I gave it one final thumb through, and paused at the the chapter titled How to Sell a House.  Written in 2004 it contains some sage advice whether you're a fan of The Donald or not.  Here is the first paragraph:
If you are selling your home and there is no or little activity, or activity but no offers, you should revisit the price.  The real estate market is volatile, and prices change daily.  I always keep in mind the saying "Old … (16 comments)

40 FREE Ways to Make a Difference Right Now - 03/02/08 03:45 PM
Recession, inflation, market fluctuations and other economic woes often cause us to tighten our belts and reduce our generosity toward others.  You do not have to write a big check to create positive change.  Free opportunities appear each day; the next time one offers itself up in front of you, at that moment you have a choice to give or ignore.
The list is never ending, but here is a starting point:
 
Raise money for a cause you believe in
When you see trash, pick it up
Spearhead a petition you believe in
Pass on good news
Give up your … (24 comments)

Self-Management Equals Time Management - 03/01/08 07:51 PM
 
There are 24 hours in every day.  No more, no less.  Some days I amaze myself with what I can accomplish within those hours.  Other days I wonder what I did, and where the time went.
 
I've tried time blocking techniques, and I find the rigidity does not suit my work style.  I work loosely from a list, but other than keeping my appointments with Swiss watch accuracy, I find I'm less frazzled at the end of days that simply unfold.
 
Being flexible reduces stress when things change as often as they do in real estate.  I keep … (12 comments)

Rolling Hills, CA Real Estate Update February 2008 - 03/01/08 01:50 PM
February 2008 was a great month for Rolling Hills sellers and buyers.  Offers were accepted on two homes listed just under $6,000,000.  Two other homes in Rolling Hills were snapped up by savvy buyers after the properties received significant price reductions.
There are currently 18 Rolling Hills properties for sale and four homes in escrow.
Rolling Hills is a gated equestrian community with sweeping ocean and city views.  It offers privacy in a country setting, yet the proximity to freeways, airport and downtown Los Angeles makes it a natural choice for buyers seeking an equestrian estate or private retreat. 
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office … (0 comments)

Palos Verdes Real Estate Update For February 2008 - 03/01/08 01:07 PM
Spring is in the air.  Real estate sold signs are popping up faster than the spring flowers.  Here are the statistics for the entire Palos Verdes Peninsula for February 2008.
 
20 Single Family Homes Closed Escrow in February
     1 Home sold above list price.
     2 Homes sold at list price.
     17 Homes sold below original list price.
 
206 Single Family Homes are Currently For Sale
69 Single Family Homes are Currently In Escrow
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, … (2 comments)

 
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Norma Toering Palos Verdes Homes in Los Angeles Area

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Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

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REMAX Estate Properties Broker Associate Lic# 01147470

Address: 8 Miraleste Plaza, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, 90275

Office Phone: (310) 493-8333

Cell Phone: (310) 493-8333

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Broker Associate with RE/MAX Estate Properties. Tune in for Best Buys in Palos Verdes; Market Updates; Buy & Sell Signals; Advice to Buyers & Sellers and other real estate related topics of interest. Updates will be posted on all four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, PV School District and other happenings on The Hill.

South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Torrance, Lomita, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach.




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