Norma Toering's Los Verdes Home Sales Report - Dec. 2010 - Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/31/11 08:15 PM
Los Verdes neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 6 Homes are for sale in the Los Verdes area priced from $650,000 to $1,149,000.
Pending sales: 3 Houses are in escrow priced from $729,000 to $950,000.
December sales: 4 Homes sold in Los Verdes during Dec. 2010:
 


Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top … (2 comments)

Norma Toering's La Cresta Home Sales Report - Dec. 2010 - Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/31/11 07:26 PM
La Cresta neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes & Rolling Hills Estates, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 9 Homes are listed for sale in the La Cresta area priced from $1,390,000 to $3,950,000.
Pending sales: 3 Properties are in escrow priced from $999,000 to $1,599,000.
December sales: 3 Homes sold in Dec. 2010:
5314 Middlecrest Rd $1,350,000 4 Bed/4 Bath 1958 yr.blt. 2,788 sq.ft. 20,000 lot 28857 Crestridge Rd $1,450,000 4 Bed/3 Bath 1959 yr.blt. 2,566 sq.ft. 20,370 lot 5964 Ocean Terrace Dr. $2,450,000 4 Bed/4 Bath 1981 yr.blt. 4,541 sq.ft. … (0 comments)

When It Comes to Pricing Zeros Trump Nines - 01/31/11 10:45 AM
When it comes to pricing your home lots of zeros are better than all those nines of yesterday.  It is time to throw out the old school psychology of listing a $2,000,000 house for $1,999,999.  Why?  Today's home buyers begin their search online and every search site has a space to type in the desired price range.  If a prospective buyer's price point is $2,000,000 to $2,500,000 a seller may miss a $2,000,000 buyer by $1.00.  Yes, I know, that is an extreme example but it is a real possibility.
 
Buyers rarely search below their target price range.  Sure, a … (9 comments)

First Meeting with Lender--Who Should Attend? Question of the Week with Video Response - 01/30/11 05:28 PM
Last week a prospective buyer called and asked who should meet with the lender.  Her fiance will be contributing the bulk of the down payment, but she is the one with steady employment and spotless credit.  After hearing a little bit more of their history I suggested they both sit down with a lender (I gave them three names) and discuss their goal, their financial picture and let the lender decide the best loan and terms tailored to suit their situation.
 
 
Just as there are a variety of homes to choose from, there are also a variety of loan … (4 comments)

Norma Toering's Country Club Home Sales Report - Dec 2010 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/30/11 05:07 PM
Country Club neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 12 Homes are listed for sale in Country Club priced from $1,140,000 to $2,490,000.
Pending sales: One property is in escrow priced at $1,050,000.
December sales: Two homes sold in Dec. 2010:
6892 Alta Vista Dr $2,250,000 5 Bed/5 Bath 1986 yr.blt. | 5,285 sq.ft. | 20,110 lot 30200 Cartier Dr. $2,800,000 | 5 Bed/7 Bath 2010 yr.blt. | 6,188 sq.ft. | 15,600 lot
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Palos Verdes Drive West Home Sales Report - Dec. 2010 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/30/11 04:56 PM
Palos Verdes Drive West neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 10 Homes are listed for sale in the PV Drive West area priced from $1,149,000 to $7,900,000.
Pending sales: 4 Houses are in escrow priced from $850,000 to $2,999,999.
December sales: One home sold in Dec. 2010:
70 Via Del Cielo $3,000,000 4 beds/5 bath 2000yr.blt. | 4,183 sq.ft. | 21,963 lot
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Palos Verdes Drive South Home Sales Report December 2010 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/30/11 04:39 PM
Palos Verdes Drive South neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 16 Homes are listed for sale in the PV Drive South area priced from $799,000 to $12,000,000.
Pending sales: 5 Houses are in escrow priced from $839,000 to $3,400,000.
December sales: 3 Homes sold in Dec. 2010:
Arrowroot Ln $819,000 4 bed/2 bath 1963 yr.blt. 2,094 sq.ft. | 22,413 lot Sea Cove Dr $825,000 2 bed/1 bath 1950 yr.blt. 1,594 sq.ft. | 9,196 lot Packet Rd $1,075,000 4 beds/3 bath 1960 yr.blt. | 2,830 sq.ft. | … (0 comments)

Tipping Large at the Carwash--Pay It Forward - 01/30/11 10:40 AM
The carwash is an integral part of the Los Angeles lifestyle.  I wash my car, or rather I have my car washed, almost as often as I wash my hair because I feel better when both are clean.  I am grateful for the convenience and ease of pulling in, hopping out of the car and twenty minutes later driving away in a sparkling clean car.
 
The carwashes are staffed with minimum wage workers who clean and buff cars all day long.  I always tip, but last week I tipped large and the young man assigned to my car deserved it.  … (14 comments)

Down an Irish Dirt Road, Over a Stone Bridge to a Little White Farmhouse - 01/30/11 09:12 AM
 

Last summer, while traveling in Ireland, I snapped this picturesque rural setting.  The dirt road was just wide enough for one car, the stone bridge was probably just as narrow and the little farm house was nestled in a grove of trees.
I find I'm either drawn to the peace and serenity of the country life, or the fast pace of city life in my travels.  Perhaps that is because I live in suburban Los Angeles (although Palos Verdes is not your average suburb). 
If you're searching for a home that inspires you to attempt to capture its essence … (11 comments)

Life in the Real Estate Jungle--2011 Style - 01/27/11 10:48 AM
Jungle:  A location marked by an intense competition and struggle for survival.

Life in the real estate jungle is a competitive one and continues to drive home Darwin's theory of "Survival of the Fittest" with ruthless abandon.  Fewer sales and declining prices equate to shrinking survival dollars for real estate agents during the money drought of a slow market.  Like hungry animals, some will migrate to new territory in search of survival, others will look for new "food" sources in their current locale.  It's the law of the jungle: eat or be eaten.
 




The Internet offers an abundant hunting … (11 comments)

Finding a Bit of Balance in Even the Whackiest Real Estate Week - 01/26/11 10:06 AM
I confess I worked right through last weekend.  It was not the plan, but it is what happened.  One thing I've learned about the day to day life as a real estate agent is balance is important, but so is flexibility.  Last minute cancellations and short notice calls to show property are part of the game when working with buyers.  Urgent calls to sellers to report a canceled showing appointment are disappointing (especially to the seller) but life is not written in stone--more like a magic erasable slate.  A wise broker once told me to set my appointments in pencil, and keep … (4 comments)

Norma Toering's Mira Catalina Home Sales Report Dec. 2010 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 - 01/25/11 09:31 PM
Mira Catalina neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 5 Homes are availble for sale in the Mira Catalina area priced from $875,000 to $2,498,000.
Pending sales: 3 Houses are in escrow priced from $750,000 to $4,999,000.
December sales: 5 Homes sold in Dec 2010:
30595 Ganado Dr $715,000 4 Bed/2 Bath 1967 yr.blt. | 2,074 sq.ft | 14,870 lot 3663 Greve Dr $765,000 3 Bed/3 Bath | 1964 yr.blt. | 2,357sq.ft. | 8,590 lot 3768 Falconhead Dr. $830,000 3 Bed/3 Bath | 1969 yr.blt. | 2,304 … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Palos Verdes Drive East Home Sales Report - Dec. 2010 - Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/25/11 09:12 PM
Palos Verdes Drive East neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 19 Home are available for sale in the PV Drive East area priced from $895,000 to $3,350,000.
Pending sales: 7 Houses are in escrow priced from $900,000 to $1,750,000.
December sales: 5 Homes sold in the PVDE neighborhood during Dec. 2010:
3536 Newridge Dr $818,000 4 Bed/3 Bath | 1973 yr.blt. | 2,661 sq.ft. | 18,160 lot 4313 Miraleste Dr. $974,800 4 Bed/3 Bath 1956 yr.blt. | 2,957 sq.ft. | 11,080 lot 2808 Via El Miro … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Rolling Hills Home Sales Report December 2010 Rolling Hills CA 90274 - REMAX Palos Verdes - 01/25/11 08:46 PM
Rolling Hills neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rolling Hills, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 16 Homes are listed for sale in Rolling Hills priced from $1,299,000 to $12,800,000.
Pending sales: 2 Properties are in escrow priced at $2,999,000 and $3,950,000.
December sales: One home sold in Dec. 2010:
Palos Verdes Dr $2,500,000 5 Bed/4 Bath | 1962 yr.blt. | 4,066 sq.ft | 45,302 lot

Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles … (0 comments)

Walk with Me in Palos Verdes - Hiking Trails at Trump National - 01/24/11 07:29 PM
I'm a frequent walker on the trails at Trump National Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes.  It is a stunning place to walk--no street noise, no exhaust fumes from automobiles and lots of wide open spaces.  It is a walker's paradise.  The trails are surrounded with natural vegetation and the roar of the Pacific as it meets the shoreline below the bluffs is a constant reminder this is a coastal community.
 
 
I'm also working on video blogging.  Each morning I stop at a particularly gorgeous spot on my walk and make at least one practice video.  I'm a novice at … (15 comments)

Living with the Locals in Cartagena, Colombia - 01/23/11 11:15 PM
My middle son is spending a few months in Colombia, South America studying Spanish and volunteering (and having some fun along the way).  Sunday evening found me sitting at my computer wondering what to write about for my tenth post of the week.  A quick check of my email revealed the topic and the photos to accompany the post.
 
He is paying it forward early in life.  When he was in college he volunteered at a children's hospital.  So I'm not really surprised by his desire to give back.
 
 
He is taking a break from the corporate world and … (2 comments)

The Doors of Cotswold - 01/23/11 10:01 PM
 
I enjoy snapping photos of doors around the world. I could not pass this one with the Holyhocks covering part of the entrance.  These photos were taken in the Cotswold area of England.
 
I enjoyed a walking tour of the Cotswold area last summer, but it would have been oh-so-delightful to step inside one or two of these charming cottages.
 
If you are a prospective buyer and see a home you would like to peek inside--call me, and I'll arrange a tour.  Shopping online is a great way to begin, but when it's time to view homes in real … (2 comments)

Dear Pat, Why Wouldn't You Show My House Today? - 01/23/11 11:53 AM
I'm selective about what posts I re-blog, but I experienced difficulty scheduling showings for a client in from China a couple weeks ago.  Two out of the eight homes we planned to show asked us to re-schedule our appointment for  1) another day and 2) another week!  Sorry, our client was on a plane back to China by then.   He and his wife are returning this week and I have my fingers crossed we can see the homes he missed on his last trip.
Thanks, Patricia Kennedy for writing this post and allowing me to share it with my readers on the … (2 comments)

I Looked, But I Did Not See Peter Rabbit - 01/23/11 11:24 AM
I looked, but I did not see Peter Rabbit when I was in the Lakes District of England, home to Beatrix Potter, last summer. 
The landscape is storybook pretty with rolling hills and stone walls lacing the land.  It was a misty morning but the weather actually enhanced the photo with a softness that reminds me of an oil painting.
How about that little summer home on the lake's edge?

Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate … (8 comments)

Norma Toering's Palos Verdes Drive North Real Estate Report Dec 2010 Rolling Hills Estates - 01/22/11 04:11 PM
Palos Verdes Dr. North neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rolling Hills Estates & the Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 16 Homes are listed for sale in the PVDN area priced from $1,049,000 to $2,399,000.
Pending sales: 5 Houses are in escrow priced from $895,000 to $1,195,000.
December sales: 2 Homes sold in December 2010:
Marina Dr $1,100,000 Empty Saddle Rd $1,595,000  
 
 
 
 

Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the … (4 comments)

Farewell, Suana! Our Mutually Beneficial Relationship Is Over But Not Forgotten - 01/22/11 10:18 AM
I always hope my "listing relationships" will not become too long term.  My goal, and that of my seller, is to sell the property, not hold it in my listing inventory month after month.  However, there is a gestation period for every listing.  Here is Suana's story:
May 2010:  We met.  I appreciated her obvious assets:  Wonderful view, custom built Mid Century with good bones and not "butchered" by a remodel gone wrong.  There was lots to work with but also lots of work to be done.  In order to accentuate the positive and correct the negatives I suggested a pre-sale termite and … (10 comments)

Another Palos Verdes Home Sold By Norma Toering & Team - 01/22/11 09:13 AM
2017 Suana, a Mid Century with walls of glass to enjoy the big ocean and harbor view, closed escrow yesterday.  The home was lived in (and loved) for nearly fifty years by my client's parents.  I have a feeling the new buyer is in for the long haul too.  According to his agent, "He loves the house!"
 
With a view from nearly every room, a stunning sunrise each morning and thousands of twinkling city lights to greet you each night, who would want to leave this charming house on the Palos Verdes Peninsula?
 
Were the sellers happy?  Here is an excerpt … (0 comments)

A Charity Far From Home but Close to My Heart--Pay It Forward - 01/21/11 06:10 PM
I began 2011 looking for a new charity to give some of my time, effort and a little money.  I believe we find what is meant to be found and lose what we no longer need.  I already give to The Children's Miracle Network each time I close a sale.  I've collected Toys for Tots for many years and served on the Board of Happy Hats, a local non-profit organization, that serves the needs of hospitalized children.
 
Okay, it is fairly evident I like children.  I am a former first grade teacher and mother of four.  My grandchildren are the … (4 comments)

Luxury Leases in Palos Verdes--Norma Toering - 01/20/11 09:12 AM
If you are in the market for a luxury lease in Palos Verdes you will find many options available.  Perhaps you long to spend a year living in a seaside villa while you acquaint yourself with the area prior to purchasing a home.  Maybe you are an executive on temporary assignment and want your California living experience to mimic an episode of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.  Perhaps you want a gated hideaway, or ranchette with stables.  The Palos Verdes Peninsula offers a wide variety of luxury homes and at any given time several of these premiere residences are for … (6 comments)

93 Acres For Sale on the Beautiful Colorado River near Needles, CA - 01/19/11 05:52 PM
Norma Toering & Team has 93 acres for sale on the beautiful Colorado River near Needles, CA.  We have several photos posted of the property on our website and the property website, but when I saw this photo posted on Facebook this morning I immediately asked for permission to use the photo in my marketing material.  Thanks, Chuck West, for taking the photo and allowing me to use it.
 
The Colorado River is the new Cabo!  Come take a cruise down the Colorado and check out the activity on and beside the river.  The asking price for the 93 acres … (2 comments)

Palos Verdes Drive South Snakes Along the Resort Side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula - 01/19/11 04:53 PM
Palos Verdes Drive South is where all the action is--both the good and not so good.  Let me explain.
 
  Palos Verdes Drive South snakes along the resort side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.  Donald Trump recognizes a beautiful area when he sees it; Palos Verdes Drive South is home to Trump National Golf Course and Trump National Estates (featuring homes up to $12,000,000).  It is also home to the world famous Terrenea Resort complete with villas, casitas and world class restaurants.
 
It is also home to one of the largest active landslides in the United States.  I know, … (0 comments)

How To Choose a Real Estate Listing Agent - 01/17/11 06:26 AM
If you want to base your selection of a real estate professional on more than a photo in the newspaper or a real estate magazine, Marte Cliff offers insight into how to select an agent in this new age of Internet marketing.  Is it the agent, or is it the office? 
Individual agents are expected to promote and service their listings and their methods vary. It is now possible to pre-interview your agent online. 
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles … (2 comments)

10 Things California Baby Boomers Need to Know About Helping Their Kid Buy a House - 01/16/11 09:08 PM
It's been years since California real estate was this inexpensive, and the interest rates are historically low.  Now is the perfect time to lock up both the price and interest rate--no one knows how long either will be around.  If you're a boomer parent with children ready to purchase a home, here some ways you can help them realize their housing goals.  Thanks, Janet Guilbault, for sharing these financial tips.

Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate … (0 comments)

Green Hills of Ireland with Grazing Sheep - 01/16/11 02:40 PM

Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top 1% of all blogs. As seen in the Daily Breeze newspaper.
… (15 comments)

Surrounded By Addicts--Thank Heavens I'm Not One of THEM - 01/15/11 07:33 PM
Back in my college days it was determined in one of my psychology (my minor) classes that I did/do not have an addictive personality.  Upon hearing the news I was not sure whether I was relieved or disappointed--after all, we were studying addictions and students who exhibited several of the traits were the subject of hours of discussion and the professor certainly knew them by name (worth at least one letter grade or so the rumor went).
 
I sailed through my college years without becoming addicted to any substance or activity (I was pretty crazy about my boyfriend but that … (50 comments)

Norma Toering's Valmonte Home Sales Report December 2010 Palos Verdes Estates, CA - 01/14/11 05:03 PM
Valmonte neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Palos Verdes Estates, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 8 Homes are listed for sale in Valmonte, PVE priced from $779,000 to $1,895,000.
Pending sales: 3 Houses are in escrow priced from $995,000 to $1,759,000.
December sales: 3 Homes sold in December 2010 in Valmonte:
Via Solano $1,100,000 Via Pima $1,190,000 Via Gavilan $1,269,000 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati … (2 comments)

Norma Toering's Malaga Cove Home Sales Report Dec. 2010 Palos Verdes Estates, CA - 01/14/11 04:56 PM
Malaga Cove neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Palos Verdes Estates, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 11 Homes are listed for sale in Malaga Cove, PVE priced from $1,499,000 to $4,900,000.
Pending sales: 3 Houses are in escrow priced from $1,178,900 to $2,999,000.
December sales: 4 Homes sold in December 2010:
Via Campesina $1,055,000 Via Del Monte $1,273,500 Via Somonte $1,510,000 Via Campesina $1,868,000 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Monte Malaga Home Sales Report - Dec 2010 Palos Verdes Estates, CA - 01/14/11 02:57 PM
Monte Malaga neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Palos Verdes Estates, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 17 Homes are for sale priced from $1,149,000 to $11,500,000.
Pending sales: 7 Houses in Monte Malaga are in escrow priced from $1,495,000 to $10,999,000.
December sales: One home sold in December 2010:
Via Fernandez  $2,325,000 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top 1% of all blogs. As … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Lunada Bay Home Sales Report Dec. 2010 Palos Verdes Estates 90274 - 01/14/11 02:42 PM
Lunada Bay neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Palos Verdes Estates, CA in December 2010.
Homes for sale: 26 Homes are listed for sale in Lunada Bay, PVE priced from $639,900 to $5,195,000.
Pending sales: 12 Houses are in escrow priced from $699,900 to $3,995,000.
December sales: 9 Homes sold in December 2010 in Lunada Bay:
Via Pacheco $1,160,000 Palos Verdes Dr. $1,160,000 Via Coronel $1,200,000 Addison Rd $1,344,800 Via Alvarado $1,490,000 Palos Verdes Dr $1,560,000 Via Asturias $1,740,000 Chelsea Rd $1,770,000 Paseo Del Mar $3,750,000 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / … (0 comments)

Picking Up the Dropped Ball--Paying It Forward - 01/13/11 05:47 PM
Picking up dropped balls is a wonderful way to provide top-notch service to clients and pay it forward--never know when I will need someone to come to rescue me in my hour of need.  It certainly beats finger pointing and playing the blame game while the ball remains on the floor and the wheels of the transaction come to a grinding halt.
 



The dreaded call from the lender came on Monday.  The bank approved the buyer but not the building--yes, the condo's CC&Rs were not acceptable to US Bank.  The buyer quickly decided to move forward with … (10 comments)

Sunshine Is My Secret Selling Weapon, Teamwork Is My Best Closing Tool - 01/12/11 08:19 PM
I have to go way back in my memory bank to remember when I sold a property on a dark and dreary day.  Sunshine really is my secret selling weapon!  I admit we Californians are spoiled when it comes weather--we expect lots of sunshine accompanied by balmy temperatures.  Showing property in the rain is a foreign concept in this southern region of the Golden State.  We like our houses illuminated by the natural glow of the sun.
 
Light enhances not only the interior of a dwelling, but also the mood of the house hunting team--buyers and agents.  Showing a house … (10 comments)

Three Things I Will Do in 2011 (and a long list of things I will not do) - 01/11/11 04:32 PM
I'm an early riser--sometimes too early--and I usually spend those middle of the night sleepless hours surfing the Internet.  I try not to beat up on myself for not being asleep and instead I use that time to read articles my busy schedule would never permit during usual waking hours.
 
For instance in the wee hours of this morning I read an article about Chinese women being the best mothers, a psychological profile of the troubled mind of the accused Tucson shooter and a host of other articles of interest.  Among those informational tidbits was a motivational story advising if you … (11 comments)

FAQ in Real Estate--How Will I Know When We Hit Bottom? - 01/10/11 06:39 PM
"How will I know when we hit the bottom?"  That was my client's question as he mulled over the pros and cons of submitting an offer.  "You won't know until after it happens," was my response.
 
It will take months for the numbers to be totaled, tallied and analyzed. Graphs and charts will pinpoint the low by the year, month, and probably the day it occurred.  Meanwhile, the home that was perfect for his family, his commute and within walking distance to the elementary school for his children will house another family.
 
The waiting game is a gamble.  Yes, … (10 comments)

Seller Tip: An Easy Way to Remember When Property Taxes are Due and Delinquent - 01/10/11 04:40 PM
"When are my property taxes due?"  It is a common question from new homeowners.  In California property taxes become a lien on the assessment date of January 1 each year.  Property taxes are paid in two installments with the first payment due November 1 and delinquent on December 10. 
 
The second property tax installment is due February 1 and delinquent April 10.  The easiest way to remember all these date (at least for me) is to commit the phrase "No Darn Fooling Around" to your financial memory:
No = November
Darn = December
Fooling = February
Around = April
 
My Principles … (6 comments)

Seller Tip: Property Tax Base Transfer Requirements--Maybe You Can Take It With You - 01/10/11 04:16 PM
A frequently asked question by Los Angeles County senior homeowners is, "What are the eligibility requirements for moving my property tax base when I move to my new house?"
California's Proposition 60/90 allows for a one time only tax base transfer for homeowners that meet the following eligibility requirements:
1)  Homeowner (or spouse, or co-owner) must be 55 or older.
2)  Replacement residence must be equal to, or less than, the value of residence being sold.
3)  Replacement residence must be located in the same county as residence being sold, or must be located in one of the counties which participates … (0 comments)

Some Days You Really Can Have It All - 01/09/11 09:32 PM
Today was about as close to perfect as a day can be.  It started with an hour of sunrise yoga (my favorite way to start any day) moved on to a couple hours of work in preparation for showing property this afternoon.  Next, after studying for my broker's exam I was ready for some fresh air and sunshine so I laced up my hiking shoes and walked five miles along my favorite ocean trails.
 
Near the end of the hike I ran into an agent friend and she invited me to hold the Trump homes at Trump National open next Sunday.  … (25 comments)

A Game of Chess--Paying It Forward - 01/08/11 09:10 AM
A sharp and savvy senior client lives alone (except for his caretaker). His son is a past client and mentioned his father enjoys a good game of chess.  Norma Toering & Team recently listed a vacant lot for this active and amazing senior, and during our meeting at his residence the subject of chess came up.  He was delighted to discover my son and business partner enjoys an occasional game of chess. 
 
Our client's eyes danced at the mention of a match and he extended an immediate invitation.  The time and date were set.  Monday, after he took photos and installed a sign, … (13 comments)

My Top 10 Blog Posts of 2010 - 01/06/11 06:36 PM
Blogging will continue to play an important role in my business in 2011.  Thanks to all my readers for making these posts my top 10 (based on views) in 2010:
The first number after the title represents the number of comments, followed by views and final number is number of clicks.

Palos Verdes is a high-end market and Donald Trump knows it.
 
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top … (8 comments)

Norma Toering's Point Fermin Home Sales Report Nov. 2010 San Pedro - REMAX Palos Verdes - 01/05/11 04:47 PM
Point Fermin neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of San Pedro, CA in November 2010.
Homes for sale: 13 Houses are listed for sale in Pt. Fermin priced from $359,000 to $795,000.
Pending sales: Two homes are in escrow priced at $450,000 to $774,900.
November sales: Two homes sold in Nov. 2010:
Carolina St $239,900 38th St $450,000 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top 1% of … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Palisades Home Sales Report November 2010 San Pedro, CA - 01/05/11 04:38 PM
Palisades neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of San Pedro, CA in November 2010.
Homes for sale: 10 Homes are listed for sale in Palisades priced from $422,900 to $730,000.
Pending sales: 5 Houses are in escrow priced from $299,000 to $1,120,000.
November sales: Two homes sold in Nov. 2010:
28th St. $485,000 Leland St $486,500 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top 1% of all blogs. … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's South Shores Home Sales Report November 2010 San Pedro - REMAX Palos Verdes - 01/05/11 04:27 PM
South Shores neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of San Pedro, CA in November 2010.
Homes for sale: 9 Homes are listed for sale priced from $619,000 to $1,999,000.
Pending sales: 2 Houses are in escrow in South Shores priced at $849,000 and $1,395,000.
November sales: No homes closed escrow during Nov. 2010 in South Shores, San Pedro.
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top 1% of … (0 comments)

Norma Toering's Eastview Home Sales Report Nov. 2010 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 01/05/11 03:38 PM
Eastview neighborhood real estate and home sales report for the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA in November 2010.
Homes for sale: 11 Homes are listed for sale in Eastview, RPV priced from $598,750 to $1,495,000.
Pending sales: 10 Houses are in escrow priced from $499,000 to $799,000.
November sales: Two homes sold in Nov. 2010:
Avenida Feliciano $676,000 Mount Lassen Ln $700,000 Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
PalosVerdesLifestyle - Nominated by Relocation.com as one of the top ten Los Angeles area real estate blogs. Ranked by Technorati in the top 1% … (0 comments)

One House Away From the Ocean's Edge in San Pedro, CA - 01/05/11 03:08 PM
Do you hear it? Opportunity is knocking! Last year this lower South Shores lot was listed for $998,000. Located on a cul-de-sac street lined with bluff front homes this 9,610 sq. ft. lot is flat and ready for the construction of your custom dream home.
Now available for $600,000! 
 
 If you long to wake to the smell and sound of the ocean, and enjoy walks along the ocean's edge this location is for you. Parks and beaches are within walking distance. World class restaurants await you at Trump National and Terranea Resort. Ocean views surround you. An amazing lifestyle awaits. … (0 comments)

When is the Best Time to List My Property? - 01/04/11 07:11 PM
Prospective sellers often ask when is the best time to list my property.  My Southern California response is different than many other areas of the country.  Personal reasons override climate when choosing the right time to sell.
 
It does not snow in my local market area, so icy roads and slushy streets are not weather conditions my clients need to factor into their listing date decision.  We do have a rainy season, if we're lucky, from November to March.  Summer heat waves are usually restricted to a few days of hot, dry and smoggy Santa Ana winds.  We have June gloom … (7 comments)

How Do I Know You Priced My Home Right? - 01/03/11 07:55 PM
Often, with pen held in hand and ready to sign the listing agreement, a seller will look me in the eye and say, "How can I be sure you priced my home right?"  It is an important question, especially as equity evaporated faster than water in the desert during the Great Recession these past few years.  It is understandably hard for a seller to release the memory of being a paper millionaire in the heady days of double digit increases in the local housing market. 
 
I love a good review of facts before placing a property on the open market, and it … (4 comments)

Needles --93 Acres on the Colorado River - 01/03/11 06:12 PM
If you are looking for wide open spaces with the meandering Colorado River nearby, Eureka, you've found it!
 
93 acres located on the Colorado River near the entrance to Topock Gorge, a popular recreation area, near Needles, CA. The property consists of three parcels and was surveyed by a licensed surveyor in 2009. Current deed does not restrict water and mineral rights, call for details. Within easy driving distance of several casinos and conveniently located between Laughlin, NV and Lake Havasu, AZ. Raw land with utilities within approximately one mile of property. The Colorado River is the new Cabo! Boating, … (4 comments)

New Years Day 2011--Crafting a Year I'm Excited About--Give Me More - 01/02/11 01:01 PM
It is no secret real estate can take over your life.  There is always work to be done--a contact that needs to be made, a property to see or show, marketing pieces to design and send--the list goes on and on.  There is always a new door to opened in this business and unless we rise to the challenges we will never know what might have been...
 
I wrote a three part series on the topic of balancing work, rest and play, and as we embark upon the start of a new year balance is on my mind. Although it is not possible to fit each … (4 comments)

Pay It Forward--One Bag of Groceries and All My One Dollar Bills - 01/01/11 01:16 PM
During the month of December I decided to purchase a bag of groceries for the local food bank each time I shopped for myself, and stuff all my $1.00 bills in the Salvation Army kettle each time I passed a bell ringer.  I think I received more "God Bless You" blessings this month than I received all year.  I notice no difference in my bank account but my heart and spirit are overflowing.
 
People need food, clothes and shelter every month of the year, not just during the holiday season.  Tomorrow I'm cleaning my closet and making a donation to … (13 comments)

 
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Norma Toering Palos Verdes Homes in Los Angeles Area

Broker-Associate

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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