Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, CA Real Estate News and Blog

Search Toluca Lake, CA and San Fernando Valley Real Estate and Info

Fri, 17 May 2013 23:57:48 -0700

Search Toluca Lake, CA and San Fernando Valley Real Estate and Info

It's a fact that the majority of today's potential home buyers start their property search online. While there are a variety of search engines and utilities at our disposal, one of the most frustrating things for consumers when it comes to these tools is the sometimes lack of up-to-the-minute information. There is nothing worse for a prospective Toluca Lake home buyer or San Fernando Valley real estate investor is to learn that the listing they have in front of them and have taken a shine to is not, as they initially thought, available. We understand that there are a myriad of reasons why this could occur but it is disappointing nonetheless. For this specific reason, I have updated my website at www.TolucaLakeRealEstate.net and have created a new website at www.TheHillsandValley.com to make searching for Toluca Lake real estate, Hollywood Hills homes and east San Fernando Valley properties an easy and enjoyable endeavor. I look forward to you visiting my websites, answering any questions you may have and, of course, helping you find the perfect home!

Risa Liebster, Realtor DRE #01831063 • Ramsey-Shilling Associates • 818.397.9188 • Toluca Lake - San Fernando Valley • Los Angeles Real Estate • www.TolucaLakeRealEstate.net • www.TheHillsandValley.com

If you or someone you know is looking to purchase or sell real estate in Toluca Lake, Hollywood Hills, Burbank, Studio City or an adjacent area of Los Angeles, California / the San Fernando Valley please don't hesitate to contact me. I would love to help make your dreams come true!

9th Annual Toluca Lake Old Fashioned Pancake Breakfast for Charity

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:27:43 -0700

9th Annual Toluca Lake Old Fashioned Pancake Breakfast for Charity

Toluca Lake residents are looking forward to a fun day with a yummy breakfast for a good cause:

Preparations are in progress once again for the 9^th Annual Pancake Breakfast that will take place on Fire Service Day. The event is hosted by the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce together with Fire Station 86 and Councilmember La Bonge. It is truly a community affair with many local businesses sponsoring the event, with support from the Toluca Lake Homeowners Association and the Greater Toluca Lake Neighborhood Council. The event will be chaired once again by Andrew Mortaza.

“This is a fun packed day for the entire family, with lots of activities for the kids. Enjoy the best tasting pancakes with all the fixin’s”, says Mortaza.

All proceeds will benefit both Fire Station 86 and theWidows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund, according to Steve Hampar, Chamber President.

For sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, you may contact Andrew Mortaza at andrew@mortazaestates.com Photos from last year’s Pancake Breakfast

Spacious, Bright 2-Bed Condo For Lease In Exceptional West L.A. Area

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:47:42 -0800

Spacious, Bright 2-Bed Condo For Lease In Exceptional West L.A. Area

Bright, airy, spacious, 1600 sqft. condo in exceptional Westside location. Minutes from Westwood Village / UCLA, the 405, Century City, Westside Pavilion and the Beach. This ample 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath unit features a large, open Living Room - Dining Room with brick fireplace, new carpet and sliders that open to the Garden Patio; a functional, attractive galley-style Kitchen with stainless appliances and breakfast nook; Wet Bar area complete with wine cooler.

Generous Master Suite with walk-in closet and luxurious Master Bath with full-sized tub and free-standing, glass-enclosed shower. Roomy Second Bedroom has sizable closet, updated carpeting and own En Suite Bath. Other great features include: additional Half-Bath in Hallway, unique floor-to-ceiling windows, bonus library book shelves, Laundry Area with washer and dryer, plenty of closet space and newly installed stone tile floors in baths. All this in a beautiful, well-maintained building in a wonderful neighborhood close to all the Westside has to offer. 2-car tandem parking in secure garage. Pets under 20lbs considered with pet deposit. Water, trash, gardener and HOA fees included. Please call or email Risa for viewing information.

10 Things To Do In Toluca Lake

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 15:25:45 -0700

10 Things To Do In Toluca Lake

This is the time of year that lucky Toluca Lake residents and those who wish they lived in Toluca Lake really appreciate all the wonderful things our community has to offer. Without further ado, here are 10 cool things to do in Toluca Lake:

1. Attend the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce fundraiser "An Evening On The Lake".

2. Take a walk on our gorgeous tree-lined streets.

3. Go to the Monday night Blues Jam at Lucy's 51.

4. Join the crowds on Halloween viewing our homeowners' wild and scary decorations.

5. Stop by the Ramsey-Shilling realty office for cup of Joe and good conversation.

6. Dine at one of our amazing restaurants, i.e., Prosecco, Sweet Salt, Firenze Osteria, etc.

7. Check out Classic Car Night Fridays at Bob's Big Boy.

8. View the gorgeous architecture during an open house of one of our beautiful Toluca Lake homes for sale.

9. Ride your bike to Priscilla's Coffee and Tea, Starbuck's or the Coffee Bean and people watch from the patio.

10. Join the entire Toluca Lake community as they celebrate during the annual Holiday Open House.

Charming Hollywood Manor Home Open Today 2PM to 5PM

Sun, 05 Aug 2012 12:52:25 -0700

Charming Hollywood Manor Home Open Today 2PM to 5PM

Risa Liebster | Ramsey-Shilling Associates | (818) 397-9188

3263 Velma Dr, Los Angeles, CA

Charming Hollywood Manor Home Open Sunday 8/5 - 2PM to 5PM

2BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $629,000

Year Built	1940
Sq Footage	1,491
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	6,080 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This adorable Hollywood Manor home possesses a retro charm that's not common in many properties currently on the market. 2 bedrooms / 2 baths (per Assessor - one is currently used as a game room), gleaming hardwood floors throughout, living room, dining, sun room and kitchen on street level. Laundry, bedrooms, w/c and wonderful bathroom on lower level. Flat, grassy, beautifully-landscaped yard and enclosed patio. Single car garage parking with neighborhood street parking. Great Hollywood Hills location. Could be a nice investment property. Furniture and appliances are available for purchase.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Dining room	- Laundry room	- Living room
- Sun room	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Fenced yard
- Lawn	- Air conditioning	- Off-street parking
- Fireplace	- Hardwood floor

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

3263 Velma Exterior	3263 Velma Yard
3263 Velma Living	3263 Velma Kitchen
3263 Velma Bath

Contact info:

Risa Liebster

Ramsey-Shilling Associates

01831063

(818) 397-9188

For sale by agent/broker

Posted: Aug 4, 2012, 12:35am PDT

Beautiful Studio City Townhouse - Open Sunday 7/29 2PM to 5PM

Sat, 28 Jul 2012 21:01:15 -0700

Beautiful Studio City Townhouse - Open Sunday 7/29 2PM to 5PM

Gorgeous, stylish 3 bed / 2.5 bath multi-level townhouse in great Studio City location. Spacious with 1700 sqft of living space just a short walk or bike ride from the shops and restaurants of vibrant Ventura Blvd. and a stone's throw from Toluca Lake. Granite and stainless cook's kitchen, large master with ensuite jacuzzi bath and walk-in closet, dining room, living room with fireplace and private balcony.

Complete with two secure underground parking spaces and personal storage area. A perfect home in the City with everything you need including a view of the City lights. The lifestyle you want IS within reach! Address: 10866 Bluffside, #4, Studio City, CA 91604

Venerable Toluca Lake Eatery Chez Nous Closed

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 19:25:49 -0700

Venerable Toluca Lake Eatery Chez Nous Closed

UPDATE: Chez Nouz has reopened under new ownership! Word is out that Baret Lepejian, owner of Lucy's 51 in Toluca Lake and Tinhorn Flats in Burbank currently has the bakery open and has plans for full restaurant service to be phased-in after a few weeks. Also in the works is a renovation of select areas of the establishment. We will keep you posted!

In June, while walking past Chez Nous, the charming bakery and restaurant that has been a fixture in Toluca Lake near the corner of Riverside Dr. and Cahuenga Blvd. for seemingly forever (I believe over 30 years), signs newly posted on the windows indicated that it was to be "closed for renovations". Now, rumor and inuendo have it that Chez Nous will NOT be undergoing renovations and will never open its doors again. Internet searches and talk on the street apparently confirm this. While I am hoping for the best, it appears that another established Toluca Lake business has not survived the challenges of the recent economy. RIP, Chez Nous!

Top Ten Legal Mistakes Home Sellers Make According To C.A.R.

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 19:07:08 -0700

Top Ten Legal Mistakes Home Sellers Make According to C.A.R.

C.A.R.'s One Cool Thing program encourages REALTORS to share critical real estate realated information with their clients and the public. This week, the California Association of REALTORS present the top ten legal blunders home sellers typically make.

Once-In-A-Lifetime Panoramic Views In Hollywood Hills

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:21:33 -0800

Once-In-A-Lifetime Panoramic Views In Hollywood Hills

Update: Accepted offer with multiple offers OVER LIST PRICE in only 8 days!

Perfectly situated on the western ridge overlooking Lake Hollywood in desirable Lakeridge Estates, this unique example of mid-century architecture boasts once-in-a-lifetime, 180° panoramic views of the adjacent hills and lake, the iconic Hollywood sign and of downtown. First time on the market since construction in 1958, this two-level contemporary remains true to mid-century aesthetics - the large open space on the ground floor has been divided into a living room area with fireplace, formal dining space and a den / family room area. With 4 bedrooms and 3 baths (2 full), updated kitchen with granite and high-end appliances and a bright upstairs master-suite which opens to an extended balcony and the stunning views beyond.

Updated electrical and plumbing, beautiful landscaping and new interlocking paver driveway. Located minutes from major Studios, freeways, Bob Hope airport and downtown. Plenty of street parking for guests. Utilities are underground - no power poles to mar the breathtaking Views, Views, Views!

Offered at $1,697,000

Sqft: 3460 (per owner / appraisal)*

Lot Size: 26,310 (2 lots)*

*Buyer to verify

Listing agents: Suzie Ramsey and Marilynn Bradbury

• Broker’s open house: Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 11AM - 2PM

• Public open house: Sunday, February 26, 2012, 12PM - 4PM

• Additional showings by-appointment-only

Once-In-A-Lifetime Views In Hollywood Hills

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:14:35 -0800

Once-In-A-Lifetime Views In Hollywood Hills

Offered at $1,697,000

Sqft: 3460 (per owner / appraisal)*

Lot Size: 26,310 (2 lots)*

*Buyer to verify

Listing agents: Suzie Ramsey and Marilynn Bradbury

• Broker’s open house: Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 11AM - 2PM

• Public open house: Sunday, February 26, 2012, 12PM - 4PM

• Additional showings by-appointment-only

Umm Is Not A Word

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 06:32:34 -0800

Umm Is Not A Word

The English language is under assault. There was a time, not too long ago, that good grammar, pronunciation and a solid vocabulary were not only highly desirable but expected. This was especially true in business. While some people will chalk (not chock) it up to the increased use of technology and text speak, I believe that laziness is the true culprit. Concise verbal communication is integral to all interpersonal relationships. As the language is continually allowed to degrade, relationships can and will suffer. Listen carefully the next time you are speaking to a colleague or acquaintance and count the number of times that they say "umm" or, one of my favorites, use the word "drug" instead of "dragged". I heard the latter on CNN a few weeks back - so much for a degree in communications!

The occasional mistake notwithstanding, how we present ourselves to co-workers, clients and the public has repercussions and there is only one chance to make a good, umm, first impression.

Hostess With The Mostest: Bing Crosby Estate Hosts Toluca Lake Benefit While On Market

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:18:21 -0700

Hostess With The Mostess: Bing Crosby Estate Hosts Toluca Lake Benefit While On Market

Apparently some homes are special. This past Saturday evening, the former Bing Crosby estate at 10500 Camarillo St. in Toluca Lake once again played host to the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce's benefit, "Comedy Night Under The Stars". The sold-out event was packed. Rumor has it the Fire Marshall had a sharp eye out for any potential violations. Luckily the event went off without a hitch. The evening started with tours of the stately home and a cocktail hour where "regular" residents mingled with their celebrity neighbors around the pool and lovely rear grounds. A Santa Maria-style barbecue followed; the large, wood-fired grills smoking well into the evening. For desert, cake, comedy and a bit of doo-wop was served to the delight of the "oldies" crowd. A helicopter full of paparazzi even hovered overhead for several passes. Really.

While the food, drinks and entertainment were great, due to a huge recent price reduction down to $4,225,000.00, I am certain that the former Crosby home was the main attraction for many visitors. With a lot size of over 80,000 square feet and and living space measuring over 7,000, there definitely is a lot to look at. The majestic 6 bedroom / 8 bath property designed in the Southern Colonial style is sumptuously appointed at every turn. The grounds, lushly landscaped and well-groomed boast rose gardens, fruit trees, a championship tennis court and over-sized swimming pool with a separate spa, cabana with full amenities, BBQ and Italian fireplace. A detached 2 bed / 2 bath guest quarters includes a kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, living room and gym provides options for hired help or when relatives are in town.

The Bing Crosby estate was built in 1936 and was the entertainer's main residence until 1943. Bob and Delores Hope were once guests staying in one of the outbuildings while their mansion at Moorpark and Ledge was under construction in 1939. Mickey Dolenz, Andy Griffith and Jerry Van Dyke have all taken turns as residents of this pedigreed address. Current owner, Larry Stickney, has outdone himself in preserving a one-of-a-kind gem. This wonderful icon of the old days of Hollywood glamor and royalty is ready for a buyer who fully appreciates the history, craftsmanship and attention to detail found throughout the property. Yes, some homes are truly special.

Shirly Duenckel and Jon Molin of Ramsey-Shilling Associates have the listing.

Toluca Lake - Burbank Lose Two More Small Businesses

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 01:42:20 -0700

Toluca Lake - Burbank Lose Two More Small Businesses

In just a short while, Toluca Lake area residents (including those on the "Burbank side" of Toluca Lake) have seen two more small businesses close their doors. According to many long-time customers, there was a sense of shock this past weekend when they learned that the owner of Papoo's Hot Dog Show has chosen to throw in the towel. A fixture in the community since 1949, Papoo's was instructed by the City of Burbank to make certain upgrades to their kitchen which were, apparently, far too expensive for the proprietor(s) to bear. The average area resident is left wondering as Papoo's recently has spent what must have totaled into the thousands to repair their charming vintage signage. One also wonders if the City of Burbank could have done more to encourage the preservation of this unique slice of Southern California history. What a shame.

Just across Riverside Drive, the Toluca Village Pharmacy has posted a sign announcing their closure as well. Customers are instructed to fill their prescriptions at CVS on Hollywood way. Although the pharmacy hasn't been in the area long, they have gained a loyal clientele who enjoyed the "small town feel" of an independent drug store to the cold, impersonal nature of the larger competitors.

What small Toluca Lake or Burbank business will be next? Don't our City leaders in Los Angeles and Burbank comprehend the allure of historic areas like Toluca Lake Village and the potential tourist dollars they may generate? I am fairly certain that the average visitor does not know precisely where city boundaries may be let alone even care, so let's dispense of city politics and get together to preserve the history of the Toluca Lake area before it becomes a strip-mall entirely bereft of personality. Small businesses provide neighborhood residents with variety, choice and a respite from the status-quo. Whether officially in Los Angeles or Burbank, it's part of what makes our community so wonderful.

The "Big Six" Home Selling Factors

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 05:43:29 -0700

If you are planning to list your Toluca Lake area home for sale in the near future or have a home currently on the market, this is a very informative piece by Virginia agent, Karen Kruschka. In it she describes six major factors that affect the sale of a home. Understand them and your real estate transaction should be relatively quick, smooth and at the best price the market will bear.

Via Karen Kruschka - Prince William, Fairfax ,Stafford County VA Real Estate Service (RE/MAX Olympic Realty):

Although they can be stated in different ways there are only six factors that affect the sale of a home.

It is important for you, as the seller, to understand who or what has control over them and how they impact on each other.

You control 3 of the 6

The Market controls 2 of the 6

Your REALTOR® controls 1 of the 6

YOU Control
1. Price - You determine list price for your home. However, a list price above the market for homes similar to yours will impact negatively on buyer interest in making an offer. Your REALTOR® will review price history with you to assist you in making a list price determination.

2. Terms - Buyers have requirements just as sellers do. Your willingness to respect them and be willing to negotiate which terms will be acceptable to both parties can have a very positive impact. Price and Terms will usually be negotiated at the same time.

3. Condition - How well you have maintained the home will influence both your price and length of time to sell. The pool of buyers who are willing to make major repairs is much smaller than the pool of buyers who want a home that has been well maintained.

THE MARKET Controls
4. Timing - Economic conditions operate independently of price, terms and property condition. Similarly, seasons and weather factors can affect the time it takes to sell a home.

5. Competition - The number of homes on the market most certainly bears heavily on your ability to sell your home on a timely basis.

YOUR REALTOR® Controls
6. Promotion - From entry into the Multiple Listing System, to internet marketing and any other programs your agent will have an impact on your home sale.

CONCLUSION
No one of the six factors alone controls the timely sale of your home. Your agent should provide you with

Feedback from prospects who have visited your home

Changes in market conditions

Your willingness or ability to make adjustments in price, terms or condition based on the information provided will be the final determinant as to how quickly your home will sell.

+++++++++++++++++++

My Team has 35 years experience in Woodbridge, Dumfries, Manassas, Bristow, Gainesville, Haymarket Prince William County

”Experience Isn’t Expensive – It’s PRICELESS”

If you plan to buy or sell a Woodbridge or other Prince William County home or property contact Karen and Art by Email or call us at 703-690-6569. Put our record of customer service, real estate experience and state-of-the-art technology to work for you in Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Stafford County or the entire Northern Virginia Area.

Prince William County

Karen Kruschka's Web Site

Popular Prince William County subdivisions to consider are Eagles Pointe, Wellington, River Falls, Saratoga Hunt, Winding Creek, Lake Ridge, Westridge, Old Bridge Estates, Brittany, Montclair, Ashland, Port Potomac, Potomac Club, Rollingwood Village, Lake Terrapin, Lake Side and Meadowbrook Woods

History For Sale In Toluca Lake

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 04:02:13 -0700

History For Sale In Toluca Lake

As celebrity watchers know, Toluca Lake is a magnet for the rich and famous. Actors, high-level execs and recording artists alike are attracted to our safe, tree-lined streets which are located a stone's throw from from three major studios. What folks from out of the area may not know, however, is that Toluca Lake has a rich and interesting history and part of that history is currently for sale.

The magnificent estate of one of Toluca Lake's forefathers, William Klump, is presently offered for sale at $2,950,000.00. Built in 1926, this prime example of Mission Revival architecture is perched high on a knoll overlooking the intersection of Forman and Toluca Lake Avenues in the heart of Toluca Lake. The sweeping corner lot measures over 19,000 sqft; the 5-bedroom, two-bath main house boasts over 3,700 sqft of artfully-designed living space on two levels. Full guest or maid's quarters are situated over the two-car garage.

Beautiful craftsmanship is evident at every turn. From the breathtaking main staircase with wrought-iron railings, to the hand-painted trompe l'loeil details, to the Batchelder fireplaces and hardwood floors - all original features that take us back to a time when true artisans were sought out and appreciated.

Additional features include: a formal entryway, family-style kitchen, den, living room and full basement complete with fireplace, updated electrical and copper plumbing and numerous artistic flourishes that are too numerous to mention. This is truly a unique property for the unique and appreciative buyer.

Broker: Ramsey-Shilling Associates | Listing Agents: Shirley Duenckel, Jon Molin | MLS #F11026705

Data: CRMLS | Presented with permission.

Tell It Like it Is

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:55:21 -0700

Tell It Like it Is

I just read Broker Bryant Tutas' great AR post about his seller interview strategy and it got me thinking about how many agents may not be up front about pricing when it comes time for the initial new seller listing presentation. When a home sits on the market and doesn't sell for an extended period of time, the number one potential problem is price. Regardless if the property is a turnkey mansion or a fixer-upper in need of a full overhaul, home buyers must feel that a higher-than-comparables listing price brings some sort of added value otherwise they may look elsewhere and usually do.

Agents, while it may be tempting to say what you feel your new sellers want to hear, don't. A home that stagnates on the market typically serves no-one. Playing the role of a smooth-taking salesperson who always scores the client may provide a bump to your ego but when there have been multiple price reductions and still no pending sale on the horizon it makes all agents look bad in the eyes of consumers. Sellers, listen to the agent who gives it to you straight. The days of the "hard sell" are over. Real estate professionals should exist to be of service to the community and tell it like it is. I know that is my mission.

HGTV's The Unsellables Seeking Toluca Lake Area Homeowners

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 16:23:23 -0800

HGTV's The Unsellables Seeking Toluca Lake Area Homeowners

I received a phone call from production company who produces HGTV's "The Unsellables". They are currently looking for Toluca Lake, Burbank, Hollywood Hills, North Hollywood and Studio City homeowners whose homes have been on the market more than 30 days, are owner-occupied and at a listing price of less than $1,000,000. Their criteria also states that "family members should be under 48 years of age". I suppose that has to do with their intended audience demographic. Homes will be rearranged, organized, staged, yards cleaned, etc. - pretty much everything a good real estate agent would recommend to their seller clients will get done. While I am a tad bit of a skeptic, if being on the show can help a family move on from difficult circumstances or help make their dreams come true, I'm all for it. I wonder who the lucky Toluca Lake area families will be? Stay tuned!

Getting Soaked in The Rain: It Can Happen to You Too!

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 03:52:01 -0800

Getting Soaked in The Rain: It Can Happen to You Too!

I've been meaning to blog about this and now I've made the time. That statement in itself is a hint to any newer 'Rainers out there: if you want to get featured, you must blog, blog, blog. In other words, hang in there, keep at it, create QUALITY content that people find interesting and want to read and one day it will happen to you like it happened to me. I received my first Activerain feature a little over a month ago with Renters Need Love Too and it was a pleasant surprise, indeed.

It's great to have your colleagues comment on what you have to say as you never know what you might learn. It's also a nice surprise when folks, based on what they've read, subscribe to your blog. So A.R. newbies, although it might take a while, grab your umbrella and wellies and start typing - you never know when that rain cloud is going to form overhead!

Renters Need Love Too!

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:29:35 -0800

Renters Need Love Too!

Several times this year I have received phone calls similar to the following: "Hello, I am looking to rent a condo, townhouse or house in the Toluca Lake - Burbank - Studio City areas but I've called several real estate agents and nobody seems to be available. Can you help me? Of course my knee-jerk reaction is to want to help EVERYONE but I stop myself as self-preservation must be balanced with the desire to be of service. Several of these potential lease clients have indicated that because of their price range, other agents have come straight out and said, "Absolutely not". This is the time in the interview where I ask about the specifics, explain what is and what isn't realistic for their budget in the desired location and let them know that I ONLY work with SERIOUS renters.

What, you may ask, is a serious renter? In my book it is someone who wants to move imminently, understands that Champagne taste must be put on hold if they possess a beer budget, is capable of meeting future lease obligations whether they are seeking a luxury estate or small condo, manages their finances fairly responsibly and has decent credit and, most importantly, COMMITS to me as a client as well as to the process.

The commitment part may be the most important for both client and Realtor®. My lease clients learn that, regardless of budget, that they will be taken care of 100% and their best interests will be protected. I look out for them in the same manner I would a high-end home buyer or seller. Calls, emails and texts are returned in a timely fashion; questions and concerns addressed promptly. In return, they must reciprocate that commitment by letting other agents who inquire know they are already working with a Realtor® and by being open and honest about all areas of their search.

I completely understand why some agents won't work with renters. They feel the payoff is lacking and therefor they should be spending their time seeking deals with much higher commissions. While I certainly have limits and must say "No thank you" on occasion due the time and expense that can accrue during a lease search, by working efficiently and effectively with the renters I do accept I can turn it into a win-win situation. By teaching my clients what to expect and what may be unreasonable under the circumstances, I spend my time wisely. This enables me to provide exceptional service and results to ALL my clients - renters, buyers and home sellers alike. Remember, your unassuming renter may one day turn into a big-time buyer. Yes, renters need love to!

Bing Crosby Estate Hosts Toluca Lake Community Benefit

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 05:02:50 -0700

Bing Crosby Estate Hosts Toluca Lake Community Benefit

On Saturday evening, September 30th, Larry Stickney current owner of the historic Bing Crosby Estate in Toluca Lake, California graciously opened his home and gardens for the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce's most recent community benefit. "An Evening of Comedy with Fritz Coleman and Friends" exceeded Chamber expectations with well over 200 neighbors and guests in attendance.

The event began at sunset with cocktails by the pool and tours of the main house's first floor. This was a wonderful opportunity for those in the area used to solely viewing the outside of the property in passing to explore the beautifully decorated and well-restored interior. Those who wanted to enjoy the night's welcome cool breezes embarked on self-guided tours of the sumptuous grounds.

On their way to being seated at tables of 10, long-time residents met newcomers, neighborhood elders mingled with thirty-somethings and industry insiders chatted with "average joes" creating a most interesting cacophony of conversations. A buffet dinner was then followed by a round of thanks and introductions by Chamber President, Shirley Duenckel, an appearance by City Councilman, Tom LaBonge and finally, the main event: standup performances by NBC 4's popular weatherman and honorary Mayor of Toluca Lake, Fritz Coleman and his comic compatriots, Brian Kiley, Suli McCullough and Bruce Fine.

The comedians gauged the audience carefully and played it safe, for the most part keeping material to PG-13 levels. The buoyant crowd, well-fed and perhaps slightly tipsy, laughed easily and applauded heartily. Who could blame them? Elbow to elbow with new friends and old in such a uniquely special place, the evening was a rousing success. Knowing that the community will benefit from the event's proceeds widened smiles even further and was the icing on the cake.

AR Rainmaker Status - Use It or Lose It!

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 23:10:21 -0700

AR Rainmaker Status - Use It or Lose It!

To those Rainmakers out there who haven't blogged in a while, pay attention. While life and work can get so busy that it seems that there aren't enough hours in the day, if you have in the past enjoyed Rainmaker benefits like extra-strength Google juice then it is imperative you don't allow yourself to "forget" to blog for 90 days. AR has indicated that if a Rainmaker does not blog for 90 days or more, then that Rainmaker status may be taken away. In other words, you might be demoted. If your Rainmaker status is important to you, blog, blog, blog. I will certainly make a concerted effort to prioritize blogging as I must admit I HAVE benefitted from it and hope to benefit more in the future. Viva Rainmakers; viva Activerain!

The Price is Right - Savvy Home Sellers Accept the State of the Market

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 02:51:13 -0700

The Price is Right - Savvy Home Sellers Accept the State of the Market

When it comes to selling your home, there are many questions to ask. One of the most important questions has to do with whether or not you can accept the current state of the market and price your home properly. Human nature being what it is, many home sellers make the common mistake of over-valuing their property. Sure, there may have been a lot of living in the home, perhaps hands-on personalization and many wonderful memories, but this does not increase the market value in most buyers' eyes. In the end, a real estate transaction is business; the less emotional one is about the pending sale (while difficult) the more successful one will be.

Savvy home sellers are aware of these points. They listen closely to their agent's description of the current state of their market, carefully review presented comps and make pricing decisions accordingly. Over-pricing a home in hopes it will miraculously sell well above market price is a mistake. Subsequently, chasing the market with reduction after reduction is a frustrating and many times futile exercise. The listing may be perceived as stale or problematic to potential buyers even with price reductions. While the home may eventually sell, isn't the primary objective of most sellers to sell their property as quickly as possible for the highest price the market will allow? I know that is my objective when it comes to my clients. Pricing the property correctly the first time not only typically moves a home more quickly, it could actually enhance the seller's bottom line.

In the Toluca Lake - Burbank West markets, I've observed competitively priced properties sell fairly quickly and sometimes with multiple offers. Multiple offers? Wow! How does that happen and could you, as a seller, find yourself in a similar situation? Why not? This is not about setting an unrealistically low, ridiculously below market offering price but about careful research and market knowledge. Today's buyers are educated and a multiple offer situation may be catalyzed by setting a sales price merely a few percentage points below market. In the end, sellers: know the current condition of your market and nearby competition. Resist over-valuing your home even though it may seem tempting. Trust your Realtor® as they are here to guide and empower you. If you are not satisfied, let your agent know and talk it through - communication is key. And finally, accept reality whatever it may be. If you are underwater, contact a real estate professional for assistance. We truly are here to help!

Toluca Lake and Burbank Home Owners - Hug Your Trees

Wed, 26 May 2010 01:19:10 -0700

Toluca Lake and Burbank Home Owners - Hug Your Trees

While that statement might seem a bit earthy-crunchy or unusual, I am not being facetious. Greg Thorpe, a home owner in Toluca Lake, recently went through a dramatic experience which may cause him and his neighbors to look at the towering, almost century-old trees in the area a little more closely. A number of weeks ago on a Friday evening, Mr. Thorpe was relaxing in his Toluca Estates home. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary - it was simply another windy evening during springtime in Los Angeles. Suddenly, without warning, the house began to shake. Did the San Andreas fault give way and was this The Big One? No. Instead, the massive ancient maple in his front yard was toppling; the high winds bringing the stately old tree to the end of its life cycle.

The volume was ear-splitting and when the dust settled, the Thorpes were lucky. The tree's huge canopy and giant trunk fell away from the house, crushing a bench, part of a brick wall and lighting fixture but sparing the home from what could have been virtually total destruction. The force of the collapse ripped monster roots out of the soil leaving a jumbled mess of a pit in the yard; part of a giant limb impaled the ground like a knife through butter. Thank goodness the Thorpe's daughter was not visiting as her car would have been parked in the line of fire. Once nerves settled and the new day broke, examination of the downed tree showed black rot through and through. Little did they know, these home owners had a ticking time bomb in their yard. The moral of the story is: pay attention to your trees - hug them on occasion if you will.

Here in the Toluca Lake and Burbank communities of the San Fernando Valley we are blessed with many of these wonders of Mother Nature. Watch for signs of disease and rot. Prune back limbs that could cause imbalance and have a qualified arborist examine your trees if you're not sure. The Thorpes, indeed, were lucky. You may not be. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Pancakes for a Good Cause in Toluca Lake

Wed, 05 May 2010 03:13:42 -0700

The 6th annual Old Fashioned Pancake Breakfast to benefit Fire Station #86 and The Widows and Orphans Fund will be held this coming Saturday, May 8th, 2010 at Fire Station #86 at 4305 Vineland Ave. from 8AM - 12PM. They will be offering guided tours, entertainment and a special surprise guest. Hmm, I wonder who it will be? Come on down and support your local firefighters, enjoy a great, tasty hot breakfast and schmooz with your neighbors. This is just the kind of event that strengthens neighborhood bonds, introduces residents to their public servants and each other and reminds us of what is truly important. Just another reason why the Toluca Lake area is so great - what could be better than pancakes for a good cause? Yum!

Toluca Lake - Why We Live Here

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 03:41:25 -0700

Toluca Lake - Why We Live Here

In no particular order, I will list 10 reasons so many celebrities and "normal folks" like us love living in the Toluca Lake area:

1. Location, location location - situated near the Hollywood / Burbank / North Hollywood borders.

2. A veritable oasis in the middle of the City; the lake and golf course provide refuge to a wide variety of wildlife.

3. Warner Brothers, Disney and Universal Studios.

4. Proximity to the ocean, mountains and freeways.

5. Beautiful homes with old trees and great neighbors - famous and not-so-famous.

6. Award-winning schools for the kids.

7. Safety, privacy, peace and quiet.

8. Dining, entertainment and nightlife is a short stroll away.

9. Temperate micro-climate.

10. Overall a great place for couples, for retirees or to raise a family.

While I'm sure I could keep going, I simply wanted to share what first comes into my mind when I think about Toluca Lake. Yes, there are a lot of wonderful places to live within greater Los Angeles, but Toluca Lake holds a special place in my heart and always will.

If you are considering relocating to the Toluca Lake area of Los Angeles, CA, I would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have.