A couple of weeks I posted this reviewof a unit that had become available at 825 Kings Rd. I had been so in love with the building for such a long time, that when I finally had the opportunity to see one of the units, I felt totally let down. I believe I compared it to an anticipated Match.com date that goes array when you actually see your date in person. For all you single ladies and gentleman, here's proof that you should not give up on a person (or in this case, a condo) until you have all of your facts straight. I didn't realize that there are multiple floor plans available. In an effort to prove once more to myself that my love for this building was not in vain, I decided to give it another shot and previewed a new listing that just came on the market a few weeks ago. I have to say that it was night and day compared to the other unit. This unit was stunning with huge windows that had ample views from all directions, hardwood floors with an intricate walnut pattern, a big usable patio, and a gorgeuos upgraded kitchen. The owner also did an elaborate custom closet and pulled the hardwoods into the bedrooms, which gets rid of the funky brown speckled carpets in the other unit. There is also a double sided fireplace that adds a dramatic effect to the unit. I would speculate that there is some wiggle room in the price since it is currently at about $840/sq foot. With a property this special/unique, it's hard to comp out. It's definitely worth a look!
825 North Kings Rd, #14, West Hollywood, CA 90069 - 2br/2.5ba, Roughly 1490 sq ft - $1,249,000
Unbelievable opportunity to own the BEST unit for sale in West Hollywood, in the award winning Habitat 825 by acclaimed architect, Lorcan O'Herlihy. Highly upgraded, this TOP floor split level floor plan (1 common wall) features walls of glass w/3 exposures, custom walnut flooring, a customized dual sided fireplace in liv rm that opens out to the enormous private patio. Boffi kitch w/Miele appliances, upgraded closets, upgraded master bath, custom window treatments & built-in sound. A must see - Listed by Keller Williams Sunset
"Beverly Hills, That's Where I Want to Be...Living in Beverly Hills" - Weezer
August 27, 2009 - 11:24 am
Beverly Hills is a rich kid favorite because of it's central location, expansive dining/shopping options, and overall feel. Although portrayed as a glamorous shark tank on CW's snooze fest "90210" (OK, I do watch this show weekly), Beverly Hills has a surprisingly wonderful sense of community and a friendly vibe to it.
My advice has always been to buy the most you can afford (even if it's the smallest place) in the best neighborhood possible. Whether you are purchasing your first condo or looking for an investment to lease out, I think Beverly Hills is probably the strongest place to invest your dollars are far as return on investment. Aside from being the international symbol for glamour, affluence, and beauty, there are many amenities that make Beverly Hills a wonderful place to call home. Often times my clients, especially those new to LA, have concerns about the safety factor of various neighborhoods. Beverly Hills is a city unto itself and has it's own police, fire departments, and emergency medical services. I've heard that the response time for an emergency call to BHPD is something like 30 seconds - 1 minute (disclaimer - I've heard this from various people, but was unable to confirm with the police department). It's definitely a place girl or guy could feel safe walking around at night.
What I also like about Beverly Hills is the walkability factor. Whether you are on the eastern or western side of the City, you can literally walk to all the shopping and dining within 10-15 minutes max. I've walked from Roxbury (very west) to Robertson in 10 minutes. The "Golden Triangle" is located in the center of the city and includes Rodeo Dr. (shopping), Beverly Dr (more affordable shopping and dining), Canon (real estate offices - haha, dining/shopping) and Crescent (beautiful Whole Foods). The zoning in the city is such that you will never see a McDonald's or other low end fast food restaurant ever pop up in your neighborhood.
Sporty Gay (as my friend J calls my bf and I) Tip of the Day: The Beverly Hills Tennis Center is located on Olympic and La Cienega and is one of the nicest public tennis facilities I have ever seen. The cost is about $10 for a years pass and then $8/game for BH Residents and $11/non residents. So when your friends are asking what you are doing this weekend, you can tell them you are brushing up on your tennis at the BH Tennis Club. As they roll their eyes at you and turn green with envy at your success to afford such a luxury, you can wink to yourself knowing you get the best facilities in LA for 10 bux!
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Solace in the Heart of Hollywood - Introducing Metropol
August 26, 2009 - 12:22 pm
As we have seen over the last 10 years or so, the urban sprawl isdefinitely heading east and areas that one would once never consider living in have now become havens for new, architecturally stunning projects. Such is the case with Hollywood's latest addition, Metropol. The trend over the last few years was to market Hollywood projects as a way to "live like a rock star" or "have a piece of the jet set lifestyle". Metropol has taken an entirely different approach. The developer's goal was to create an atmosphere of wellness and serenity in the heart of Hollywood with lush landscaping, green engineering elements, and a state of the art personal trainer's gym. Another interesting feature is that they've transformed the lobby into a library/lounge/art gallery with rotating walls of artwork, intricate custom made furniture pieces, and shelves stocked with hardbound books on anything from photography to the history of LA. In full disclosure, the area is definitely one that is in transition, but once inside the confines of Metropol, you feel like you are in a different world. The building can be shown on a limited basis with a projected full launch/party early October.
6001 Carlton Way, Hollywood, CA 90028 - 41 Units Ranging from 920 - 1240 Sq ft - Units starting in the high $400K to $749,000.
41 UNIQUE ONE AND TWO BEDROOM RESIDENCES, INCLUDING 11 PENTHOUSES-PROVIDING SERENITY WITHIN A VIBRANT AND EMERGING ENCLAVE OF HOLLYWOOD. FIVE FLOOR PLANS DEMONSTRATE A DEFINED APPROACH TO LIVING AREAS AS COMBINED WITH THE OPENNESS OF A LOFT RESIDENCE WITH EXPANDED VOLUMES, EXPANSIVE WINDOWS AND GENEROUS PATIOS OR BALCONIES. THE CUSTOM INTERIOR FINISHES ARE AN EXTENSION OF THE FAÇADE WITH A CONCENTRATION OF OAK FLOORING, CABINETRY & FINISH CARPENTRY ACCENTED BY POLISHED CHROME, GLASS & STEEL. Listed by Deasy Penner and Partners
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Attention Rich Kids Currently Squatting in Your Parent's Beverly Hills Home or Guest House
August 20, 2009 - 10:53 am
This post is dedicated to all the daddy's girls and mama' s boys that are not quite ready to leave the nest even though it's about that time or in some of your cases, long past due. Trust me, I get it. You have become used to the luxuries of gourmet kitchens w/Viking appliances (even though you may not cook, it's still a comfort knowing that they are there), beautiful gleaming hardwod floors, and top of the line luxury everything. The thought of leaving the safety of Beverly Hills with it's close proximity to your parents/family, convenient location to everything, and small town sense of community is something that you are just not willing to consider. I hear you loud and clear!
Well, I have the solution for you...coming soon. Next week I will be launching an absolutely stunning condo in Beverly Hills proper that has everything you could want in your dream pad and more in the 6's. There is nothing comparable to this property in Beverly Hills for the price.
Dust of your Vuitton luggage, start packing, and get ready for a condo that will blow you away.
Stay tuned and start buttering up your parents, you won't want to miss out...
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Hot Prop of the Day - WeHo - New Construction - $799,000-$1,449,000
August 19, 2009 - 11:26 am
I have been hearing a lot of buzz about this project for quite some time prior to it's completion. Yesterday was the first opportunity I had to check it out since it's launch about 4 weeks ago and I have to say it is pretty cool. When I look at property, I try to keep a very objective eye although sometimes I can't help but insert my personal taste preferences when reviewing. Having toured all of the units, I think I can safely say that this project will evoke a strong reaction either way - you are either going to love it or hate it. The exterior continues the West Hollywood trend of vertical living, strong angles, and attention grabbing colors. It definitely has a Lorcan O'Herlihy vibe to it and I think it makes for an interesting addition to Sweetzer. Internally, the spaces have a good flow to them. Sometimes with these multi level units, you are left wondering how you are going to create a functional living space. This is not the case with this project. You can tell that there was a lot of thought that went into the layout and the materials used inside. Speaking of materials, this is where things can get a little tricky. They opted for a red mahogany hard wood floor in the common spaces and then a deep brown (in sunlight) verging on black carpeting in the bedrooms. This to me is the point where you stay intrigued or will know instantly that this is not the place for you. I had worked with client on the Formosa project who installed textured red hardwoods that had this black grout-ish material in between the wood that created a stunning effect in conjunction with the architecture of the unit. Although I like it on this project, I am not as in love with it as I was with the other. The kitchens are nice, a bit on the smaller side with mid range stainless steel appliances. The one cool feature I loved was that the higher end units have roof top patios that actually have grass, which I has not seen before. Units range from 1141 sq ft ($799,000) to over 1800 for the best view unit ($1,449,000). There are larger units at 1975 sq ft for $1,199,000 that lack the view and light. Like all new development projects, they are starting out on the high side, but would imagine prices will adjust over the next six weeks. Definitely a project to follow and one that I think is worth checking out.
1200 North Sweetzer Ave, Units 1-10, West Hollywood, CA 90069 - 1-3brs Ranging from 1141 sq ft - 1974sq ft - $799,000-$1,449,000
NEW CONSTRUCTION IN THE HEART OF WEST HOLLYWOOD. TWO STORY, 2 & 3 BEDROOM BOUTIQUE HOMES AND ONE UNIQUE LOFT UNIT FEATURING MAHOGANY WOOD FLOORING, CARPETED BEDROOMS, BRUNITO CERAMIC TILE FLOORS IN BATHS, SECURITY SYSTEM IN EACH UNIT, CUSTOM KITCHEN CABINETRY WITH SOFT TOUCH CLOSING, STATE OF THE ART WIRING, VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEMS, WASHER/DRYER HOOKUPS, STAINLESS APPLIANCES, DUAL PANED WINDOWS AND SLIDERS, CAESARSTONE COUNTERTOPS, GLASS BACKSPLASHES AND MUCH MORE. Listed by Sotheby's International
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Hot Prop of the Day - House in WeHo - 3br/2ba - $995,000
August 14, 2009 - 10:46 am
As I had posted earlier this week, I have been so busy that it has been leaving me little time to update my blog. I had promised to update more frequently on Wednesday, but have still had a hard time finding a moment to sit down and write. I received a call last night from one of my regular readers which was just the inspiration I needed to make sure I continue to routinely update. Thank you so much D - you have totally put my a$$ in gear!
I have a client right now who is on the fence between purchasing a condo or a home. For me personally, my dream is to find a well done house w/ pool in a prime neighborhood for under $1,000,000. While I was doing my search yesterday, I think I found it. As I always write, I am obsessed with the neighborhood south of Melrose adjacent to Urth Cafe and the Pacific Design Center. This house is everything I want it to be - adorable curb appeal, hardwood floors, updated kitchen, and a bright/airy floor plan with a pool/spa in the back in a fab location. What's the catch you ask? Much like La Toya Jackson, I decided I needed to "get down to the bottom of things" and figure out why this house is so well priced. It turns out that the property is adjacent to a lot that is zoned for commercial space. From what I understand, the lot has not been developed for over 20 years, but could have the potential for a condo building to pop up sometime in the future. For me, I think I could live with that because the house has everything that I could ask for at an extremely competitive price. I bet there is a killer deal to be had on this as it has been sitting on the market since April and was originally listed at $1,199,500 (random list price).
941 Westmount Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90048 - 3br/2ba, Roughly 1280 sq ft - $995,000
Just REDUCED! One of the city's most sought after neighborhoods, this impeccably renovated 3bd/2 ba residence is just blocks away from L.A.'s most popular restaurants, shops, and gyms. Nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the home seamlessly blends English cottage charm with contemporary flair. Features include brand new Viking appl, high ceilings, crown molding, plantation shutters, recessed lighting, wood-burning fireplace, privacy, detached garage and a sparkling pool/spa. IDRISIdesign Listed by Keller Williams Sunset
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Things are Bumping at The Luminaire - 928 Croft/WeHo Area
August 12, 2009 - 1:50 pm
I have written about the project I have been working on, The Luminaire on Croft, many times. About two weeks ago we had a verbal price reduction followed by an actual reduction in the MLS. All I can say is that units are flying. I had five offers in one day and managed to put three units into escrow within just a few days, with one of the units going into multiple offers. Right now we are in negotiations on 2 other units, which should hopefully yeild five escrows in less than two weeks. Not too shabby! This proves that without shadow of a doubt that when there are well priced and well constructed units in a prime area that they will sell. Not only were offers accepted quickly, but the sale prices were not too far off the mark from the list price. I love when things sell, but my absolute favorite part of real estate is when there is excitement and synergy between the agent, the sellers, and the buyers. That is definitely the vibe right now which makes me want to work non stop (see below post) and another reason why I have so much fun working with first time buyers!
For any of you who have had any interest in this property, there is one, 1br/1.5 bath left at $595,000 (1375 sq ft) on the second floor. There is no other new construction in the West Hollywood area at this price. Please feel free to call me for a private appointment or stop by my open house this Sunday from 2pm-5pm
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It's Been a While...But I'm Back!
August 12, 2009 - 1:33 pm
For those of you who read my blog on a regular basis, I want to apologize for the overall lack of entries these last few weeks. I imagine being a real estate agent is a lot like being an actor - when there is a lot of work, you never turn down a role. Things have been wonderfully busy on this end leaving me very little time to do anything but work, go to the gym, and sleep. I have not had a day off literally in about 6 weeks. I did manage to squeeze in a well deserved weekend in Vegas for a wedding (congrats Mr. and Mrs. VL) this past weekend, which was amazing. Side note: as a an aging rich kid, I can't party the way I used to! What once took me a day of recovery has now taken me 4 days. At least I can still hang the night of!
From here on out I am going to try to keep things in better balance, which includes new entries at least a few days a week. Stay tuned for what I have been up to...
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Solair Weekend Special Phase One Close Out Event
July 31, 2009 - 11:30 am
First and foremost, I want to apologize for the lack of posts this week. As you know, I try to post at minimum three times a week. This week has been extremely hectic, but exciting! I' ve just put three units into escrow, one of which was in a very tedious multiple offer situation. Suffice it to say it's been a lot of fun and I truly love when the synergy between the agents, the buyers, and the price/property all come together. This feeling is what makes me love what I do so much! But I digress...
A friend of mine has recently taken over the marketing and sales for Solair, a luxury 23 story building in the heart of Mid Wilshire. I've been to the project many times and was blown away by the quality of construction, the attention to the smallest of details, and the lux amenities peppered throughout the building. What makes Solair unique is that there is literally a substantial view from every unit. Albeit some views are better than others, but you are getting a view none the less. Some of the buildings I've sold, when I say no view, I mean you are looking at an elderly women hanging her bras out to dry on the balcony across the breezeway from yours.
The interior units feature beautiful hardwood floors, chef's kitchens with stainless steel Bosche appliances, luxury master baths with a unique wet room for the ultimate experience in cleanliness, but ample room for dirtiness if you catch my drift. Other amenities include a seventh floor, 40,000 sq ft sky deck with pool, showers, bbq, cabanas, open glass view filled fitness room with the finest work out equipment available and a lounge/reading room with an enclosed Karaoke room for those days when you just need to just get your jam on.
The 2-3br units start at $800,000 and go up to $2,500,000 for a top story penthouse. To kick out off the relaunch of 
Solair, the developers are offering a sales event this Saturday and Sunday (August 1st and 2nd) from 9am-6pm. Select units will be starting in the $500,000 range going up to the $800,000's for the largest floor plans available. This sale is by invitation only, so you must go to the Solair for a pre approval before you can make a purchase. Units are on a first come first serve basis. Solairgives you the best of both worlds - quick access to Hollywood/Downtown, while being close to the freeway for quick jaunts to the Westside.
Solair is located at: 3785 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 - Sales Office: 213-387-9099 - Ask for Loetta
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Just Because You are Curious - WeHo/825 Kings Rd - 2br/2ba - $959,000
July 27, 2009 - 11:16 am
I tend to preview a lot of properties on Kings Rd because I find it to be one of the nicer and more affordable streets in West Hollywood. Every time I drive by 825 Kings Rd, I am dying of curiosity to see what the actual units look like in the building. I have a lot of friends that live in the neighborhood and are always asking me the same thing! The exterior is stunning and is most definitely my favorite building designed by master architect Lorcan O'Herlihy. When I saw that a unit became available, I was foaming at the mouth to catch a rare glimpse at one of these condos(OK, not so rare, there were a couple that were on the market over the last few months, but you get the point). As I was twittering, I was poised to instantly anoint this a Hot Prop before I had the chance to even check it out. Well ladies and gentleman, it was not the love at first site I thought it was going to be. I am lucky enough to be in a long term relationship and due to having the liability of being extremely unphotogenic, I had never done the online dating route when I was single. I compare this building to someone that you are so pumped to meet from Match.com (or whatever the happening dating site is these days) only to find out that they did not look nearly as good as they did in their pics. Maybe you built them up too much before you actually met setting yourself up for a let down no matter how great they are. This was the case with this building. The unit is nice enough with hardwood floors, rooms with unique angles, slick/modern bathrooms, and a nice open kitchen. Some odd features are a balcony off the master with a BBQ (which may come in handy if you have a burger craving during an orgy), a very small/dark second bedroom, and overall just oddly preportioned. I am not trying to bash because it truly is a nice piece of architecture, but I just had higher hopes! I think the pics will give you a better idea! The building is made up of a variety of unique floorplans, so it's possible that I didn't see the hottest one. It's also priced on the high side.
825 North Kings Rd, Unit #7, West Hollywood, CA 90069 - 2br/2ba - $959,000
BEAUTIFUL SPLIT-LEVEL DRAMATIC UNIT IN AWARD-WINNING MASTERPIECE BY ARCHITECT LORCAN O'HERLIHY. SOARING CEILINGS & AMENDIUM HARDWOOD FLOORS ACCENTUATE THE SLEEK MINIMALIST DESIGN. SOPHISTICATED KITCHEN WITH BOFFII CABINETS, MIELE APPLIANCES & LARGE WALK-IN PANTRY OPENS TO SPACIOUS LIVING & DINING AREA. CEILINGS & WALLS CONVERGING AT UNIQUE ANGLES, THE ECO-CONSCIOUS DESIGN IS LIGHT & AIRY. UPSTAIRS ARE 2ND BEDROOM & LARGE MASTER WITH PRIVATE PATIO & WELL-APPOINTED BATHS. ALSO FOR LEASE AT $5,850. Listed by Coldwell Banker
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