Archive for the 'El Sereno' Category
Northeast Los Angeles New Home Buyer Protection Is A New Benefit
Home buyers in search of that sensational property in the Northeast Los Angeles Communities now have a new resource coming on board to be of service. The U.S. Government is in the process of implementing a new agency that will help maintain the rights and legality of process for today’s home buyer. The communities of Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Eagle Rock, Glassell Park, Atwater Village, Silver Lake and others have much to offer a buyer besides prime location. The inventory of homes for sale are right and with Raphael, a local resident Realtor, the specifics of each neighborhood can be clearly identified.
So let’s get to this new agency that is being put in place to assist and protect active qualified home buyers. What the new consumer protection bureau will do is to be part of the financial reform bill signed into law by President Obama which includes the creation of a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which will write new rules and monitor problems and abuses in areas such as residential real estate settlements, credit scores, “truth in lending,” and equal credit opportunity. It is all definitely needed to ensure property transactions are done the right way with the reliable assistance of a professional Realtor.
One of the earliest and most widely anticipated changes expected to take effect impacts home appraisals. By law, the agency must create new interim rules on appraisal accuracy and independence to replace the Home Valuation Code of Conduct rules imposed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in 2009. Many in the real estate industry, as well as home buyers and sellers, report that previous standards led to low home valuations that, in some instances, derailed home sales transactions in many instances. It is a matter that local Realtors in N.E.L.A had to deal with in the past at various times depending on the individual transaction.
A national hotline system will also will be developed that will allow aggrieved mortgage borrowers and others to issue complaints and alert the Bureau to unfair and deceptive practices. We have all seen and heard of a variety of bizarre processes that have been in operation by certain providers to the real estate community.
Seeking to purchase that custom, craftsman, vintage or view home in Northeast los Angeles then stay in touch with Raphael. Numerous ideas and assistance is presented in this site so take a few minutes to see all the free benefits brought to YOU the home buyer. The ease of purchase with interest rates in the 4% range make it a real bargain to purchase that new home today. So don’t hesitate and act now to contact Raphael for more reliable and updated information on any N.E.L.A neighborhood.
All details are confidential and feel comfortable to share your information on this site…
Northeast Los Angeles Real Estate Needs Trusted Realistic Home Sellers
The neighborhoods of Northeast Los Angeles have a large percentage of home sellers that are respectable and realistic. Numerous houses for sale are being priced right the first time and sellers are more helpful in house related details. Mt.Washington, Eagle Rock, Silver Lake, Highland Park and Glassell Park presently have a fair amount of houses for sale priced well in the $400k to $600k range. Obviously, being your local resident Realtor is knowledge of the community along with the benefits to present the best in a marketing sales plan.
Pricing Your Home Is Critical; Consider comparables. Review current data presented to you to include local numbers in the past 90 days of movement. What have other homes in your neighborhood sold for recently needs to be looked at accounting for pros and cons. How do they compare to yours in terms of size, upkeep, and amenities is all part of the equation.
All my clients are also presented with competition in the housing market inside and outside of their immediate neighborhood. Time must also be discussed as it will mean a smooth transition if planned well. The home seller may also go for an officail appraisal just to state the current value in the sales market. A written appraisal is also a great marketing element in obtaining an acceptable offer.
Home Sellers need to be realistic and discuss the lowest price that would be accepted while being honest to themselves and the Realtor. Northeast Los Angeles is where my expertise, knowledge and experience support the seller in meeting objective set. Obtain that ‘free’ Comparative Market Analysis for a documented value to your house. Act Now, it is something every home owner should keep updated for reference. Homework is what I do best.
Your PRIVACY is always RESPECTED…be comfortable on this site…
Home Buyers In Northeast Los Angeles Discover More Awesome News
Northeast Los Angeles home buyers of recently upgraded or remodeled homes should ask the seller for all construction-related documents. It is always in the best practices to have these related reports for future reference.
Reports that the home seller could give would be; geotechnical report, engineering drawings, letters to the planning department and confirmation of all permits being completed.
Verifying livable square footage is a big issue in today’s real estate market. Many lenders won’t count additions or renovations that add square footage in the appraised valuation of the property.
If the sellers can’t provide any supporting documentation, such as copies of approved permits, the property could appraise for less than the agreed upon sales price. This could jeopardize the transaction if the lender approved a lower mortgage amount than you requested.
It’s a good idea to check the permit history at the planning department yourself if the sellers can’t provide copies of permits for work done. This should let you know if renovations were done with permits and if the permits received final approval. You should have this information ‘before’ removing the inspection contingency.
The Dept. of Building and Safety is not suppose to issue a new permit if there is a permit on record that never received final approval. The new owners might incur fees to clear up any outstanding permits before they can move forward with possible new improvements. Every home buyer should check the City files for it only takes a little time to accomplish this.
In California, 70 percent of the homes bought by investors in 2009 were distressed-sale properties, according to the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.
Fixers priced over $500k aren’t as easy to sell today. Most buyers in higher price ranges are buying a home to live in. They want a home in move-in condition that will suit their long-term needs.
One will always have exceptions. In high-demand market niches with few listings, like Mt. Washington, there is occasionally a fixer-upper that draws a lot of attention. Usually, these fixers sell to buyers who will live in the property and fix it up themselves to save money. Often this is the only way they can afford to move into one of the neighborhoods in N.E.L.A. such as Mt. Washington, Eagle Rock, Silver Lake, Glassell Park, Highland Park and El Sereno just to mention a few.
Cosmetic improvements, such as painting, replacing outdated floors, or refinishing worn hardwood floors can pay off. Complete Presale inspections by licensed quality inspectors will help buyers make a sound decision whether or not to tackle a project.
Sellers who have equity in their home and cash to invest in fix-up for-sale work should consider making cost-effective renovations, like a kitchen upgrade, but not an entire renovation. It is an important factor to review what the home would sell for with and without certain improvements as only your ‘local’ Realtor would truly know.
I maintain a list of proven and reliable service providers to assist an owner in any type of home renovation at a reasonable price.
Homework is what I do best to properly advise all my clients when buying or selling a home. Today’s real estate market is like a jungle and requires a local guide to be on the positive side of thing.
All information is strictly confidential and privacy always respected.
Highland Park And El Sereno Audubon Center At Debs Park Offers Much To The Community
Highland Park and El Sereno share a large piece of real estate known as ‘Debs Park’ which encompasses the Audubon Center. A great place for home owners to enjoy and current home buyers to be aware of as a true community benefit.
Audubon Center at Debs Park
4700 N. Griffin Avenue
Los Angeles, Ca 90031
323-221-2255
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 9 AM – 5 PM
The Audubon Center opened in 2003 as an environmental education and conservation center for the communities of Northeast Los Angeles. The Center is located in the third largest park in the city of Los Angeles. The Center’s mission is to inspire people to experience, understand and care for the local natural world.
The nature-based education and community programs are designed to engage children and their families in the outdoor world, and give them a personal stake in its protection by making environmental issues relevant to their lives. The Center is operated by Audubon California, a state field program of National Audubon Society, and is a vital part of Audubon’s national outreach to all audiences. The Center is a unique gathering place and dynamic focal point for outdoor recreation, environmental education and conservation action.
July Calendar
Every Sunday Morning (8:30 – 9:30 am)
Free Tai Chi Class
Enjoy a peaceful early morning in our courtyard. Volunteer instructor, Wayne Qian, will teach you techniques to ease your tension and stress, and improve your balance and breathing.
Friday, July 16 (6:45 – 10:00 pm)
Audubon Film Fridays
In partnership with Los Angeles and Pasadena Audubon, we are pleased to present Audubon Film Fridays. Our summer film nights start off with an optional bird walk at 6:45 pm, and then at 8:00 pm we start our films. Showing this month is Paddle to the Sea and Rock the Boat in English, no subtitles. Gather under the stars to watch films about the natural world that surrounds us.
Saturday, July 17 (9:00 – 11:00 am, rain or shine)
Women’s Fitness Hike
Ladies: Get movin’ with Maria from Azteca Training Center. She will lead a moderate hike up and down the hills of Debs Park.
Bring water, wear workout/hiking shoes. Free child care for ages 4 and up will be provided. English and Spanish speakers welcome.
Saturday, July 24 (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Old Time String Band Jam Session
Listen and dance to local area musicians strum Southern Appalachian style fiddle and banjo tunes. Bring your own instrument to join in on the fun!
Well here you have it, another tidb it from your ‘local’ Realtoron great events that take place in Northeast Los Angeles. The communities of Highland Park, Mt. Washington, El Sereno, Montecito Heights, Eagle Rock, Glassell Park, Silver Lake and others all benefit from the programs offered.
Learn more about this area now simply by ‘asking me’ what’s happening. Looking to buy in the area then do the same ‘ask me’. Check out my custom home search page for accurate information on the real estate market per your specific requirements. Remember, no-obligation / no-commitment, so get the facts and invest wisely.
Your privacy is always respected and confidentiality is #1, act now for a postive real estate transaction
Real Estate For Home Sellers In Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Eagle Rock, Glassell Park And More Need To Know*
The secret for Home Sellers in the present real estate market in the Highland Park, Mt. Washington, Eagle Rock, Silver Lake, Glassell Park and other Northeast Los Angeles Communities is this:
5 Tips For First-Time Sellers.
At first the task seems daunting because of today’s real estate market: You haven’t sold a home before, the market looks complex, and what worked for owners 3 or 5 years ago seems inappropriate today. Keep in mind the value of a good Realtor/e-PRO bringing you a specific detailed plan on marketing & merchandising your real estate.
What steps should you take? Here’s a baseline list to get you started. Owners have done it but remember all the legal liabilities that goes with being a home seller.
- Define Your Goal. Do you want the highest sales price — or the biggest check at closing? They’re not necessarily the same. Imagine that two homes sell for $300,000, but one owner agrees to replace the roof. The owner who sold without such costs got a bigger check at settlement. The bottom line: To have a successful sale you must have a strong negotiator in your corner that is a ‘local’ Realtor.
- Times Have Changed. Today’s real estate marketplace is radically different when compared with 5 years ago. Purchasers now use the Internet, receive seller disclosure forms, get home inspections, and are routinely represented by buyer brokers. The result is that buyers are better prepared than in the past. The ‘local’ Realtor makes the difference in many aspects in bringing value to a seller.
- Sparkle And Shine. Imagine going to a supermarket and seeing dusty fruit or aisles filled with old shelving and cans. It doesn’t happen because the grocery store knows how to present its goods. Sellers must do the same. Get rid of things you don’t want to move, organize closets and storage areas, and clean everywhere. The payoff is a higher sales price.
- Mechanics Count. Buyers expect everything to work. Home inspections are now a fact and what buyers miss home inspectors will catch. Fix things now and they won’t be an issue in the future.
- Think Broadway. When buyers see your home, it’s showtime. They want an environment where they can see themselves. Given them a show where everything is painted, arranged, and attractive, a home where the only issue is when to move in. A factor that a Realtor as an outsider is critical in giving based on trust, integrity and true service.
I am a Northeast Los Angeles Consultant that specializes in all communities of N.E.L.A. Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Glassell Park, Atwater Village, Eagle Rock and the other neighborhoods are my expertise to deliver successful results in any real estate transaction.
Thinking selling a house then let’s arrange for that free market evaluation of your property. Remember, no-obligation, no-committment is the rule. I welcome the opportunity to be of service so it’s worth your time.
All information is strictly confidential…
Eagle Rock, Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Silver Lake, Atwater Village, Glassell Park Bring Concern To Pet Movement
The real estate in the communities of Atwater Village, Eagle Rock, Mt. Washington, Silver Lake, Highland Park, Glassell Park and the rest of Northeast Los Angeles are all concerned about pet movement. These are all pet friendly communities and pets are part of the family thus they must be considered in any move. Home buyers and home sellers must make themselves aware of a variety of issues to make for a safe and very easy transition when a real estate transaction is happenning.
Moving a pet is a delicate process and requires some thought for the safety of your pet…
A. Locate a new veterinarian near your new home and check references and stop in for a visit.
B. Locate a 24 hour hospital for emergency services and check night staffing.
C. Search for one or more locations to obtain food & supplies besides the Petco and Petsmart stores.
D. Locate a grooming center and check with new neighbors for references depending on the pet.
I am not only your ‘local’ Realtor but have two Rhodesian Ridgebacks that are part of the family and community. I have encountered many pet owners who have had bad experiences for they were simply not aware of local assistance when in an emergency situation. Real Estate in the Northeast Los Angelesarea have some great dog parks and the one in Hermon by Highland Park was voted one of the best recently by Los Angeles Magazine.
Be Reminded of the 10 Commandments for All Pet Owners In This Active Real Estate Market;
1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any seperation from you will be very painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want from me. Do not break my spirit with your temper, though I will always forgive you. Your patience will reach me more effectively.
3. I ask that you have me spayed or neutered.
4. Treat me kindly, my friend, for no heart in the world is more grateful for you kindness than mine. Do not be angry with me for long, and do not lock me up as punishment. I only have you and you have many others.
5. Speak to me often. I may not understand your words but I do understand your voice.
6. Take me in when it is cold and wet. I am a domestic animal and am no longer accustomed to the bitter elements. I ask for your gentle hand, a bowl of water and yoour love. I stand ready and able to share my life with you for that is what I live for. I will never forget how well you treat me as my life goes on.
7. Please do not hit me.
8. Before you scold or yell at me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something may be bothering me.
9. Take care of me as I age as I will be there for you as you age.
10. When I get old or I no longer can have good health, please do not make great efforts to keep me going. Just see to it that my life with you is taken gently and be ther with me as I embark on a new journey. Please do not say, “I just can’t bear to watch”, everything is better for me when you are there for me. I love you and hope you will remember me…
When situated in North East Los Angeles please visit the Hermon Dog Park for a fun YAPPY HOUR..
Have questions on real estate in the area then act now in advising me of your needs for a quick resonse. Great opportunities are still out there in the N.E.L.A communities as the market slowly shifts. Now is the time to speak to a lender and be updated on loan programs and interest rates that will benefit a home buyer and also a home seller.
Your information is all confidential and your real estate consultation is no-obligation, no-committment. Act Now…
Highland Park Real Estate Welcomes Lummis Day
Highland Park once again is host to the annual Lummis Day Festival at the Heritage Square Museum. This community of Northeast Los Angeles will present a fun-filled day of music, artisans, history and more.
The Festival takes place this Sunday, June 6th and starts around 10:00am at the preserved home of Charles Lummis by Ave. 43 and the 110 Frwy.
There will be about 100 performers and artists from 17 bands and dance troupes, plus dozens of artists, craftspeople, and community groups. In the tradition of the Lummis Day Festival, performers will be on three stages at the Heritage Square Museum.
Performers will include Tex-Mex artist Ruben Martinez and his Balladeers, Latin-Ska-Reggae band Upground, salsa artists The Susie Hansen Latin Band, jazz artists Elliot Caine Quintet, country artists The Dime Box Band, the Gabriel Reyna Flamenco Troupe, dancers Las Alazanas , Ballet Coco, alt-country hillbilly punk band, The Evangenitals, the Oaxaca Dance Company, the Puppets & Players Theater, the Cypress Park Four Square Church Band, and local rockers Ann Likes Red and Driven.
Remember, the event and parking is FREE.
What better way to spend an AWESOME fun filled day.
Check out the schedule and be in tune to make the most of the event with your family and friends. Single? Guaranteed best place to take a date.
I as a sponsor and ‘local’ Realtor will be hosting a table to bring you sensational real estate information for your benefit and reference. Details on what is happenning in the communities of Atwater Village, Echo Park, Eagle Rock, Mt. Washington, Glassell Park, Highland Park, Silver Lake, El Sereno and South Pasadena will be available.
Stop by the Lummis Day Festival and not only enjoy the happennings but get a no-cost no-obligation real estate consultation. You will be glad you did and become well informed on the area’s current real estate market.
I appreciate your time and your information is strictly confidential.
See you Sunday at the fun festival…
Real Estate In Northeast Los Angeles Requires Home Sellers To Prepare Economically
Who else wants to be a Home Seller in Northeast Los Angeles Real Estate.
Do you want to have some good ideas as a Home Seller in the communities of Eagle Rock, Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Glassell Park, Atwater Village, Silver Lake, and Echo Park? Well here are a few pointers that may start you on the straight path of success, read closely;
Make Home Buyers Hate Your House
1. Odors
2. Dogs that Meet You at the Door or in the Driveway
3. Dirty Bathrooms
4. Dimly Lit Rooms
5. A House Full of Busy Wallpaper
6. Bugs
7. Poor Curb Appeal
8. Gutters with Plants Growing in Them
9. Sellers Who Hang Around for Showings
Home Sellers Can Paint
- Red is stimulating and encourages self confidence
- Orange promotes happiness and celebration
- Yellow is uplifting and light-hearted
- Blue is calming in softer tones and promotes clarity in deeper tones
- Green is the color of nature—it feels fresh and rejuvenating
- Aqua is restful while pink is gentle and sweet—making a great pair
- Purple tones bring out a sense of compassion
OPEN HOUSE NOTES
Declutter and De-Personalize.
Email raphael@kw.comto discover that great things happen when Raphael is involved. Your info is always confidential and your privacy is repected.
Real Estate News On Foreclosures
Well, it is a known fact that once the time of foreclosure sets in the situation is bad. I work with all my clients to keep them informed and aware of all circumstances. Residents of Northeast Los Angeles find my website and e-mail to be reat reference for the home buyer or home seller.
Here is a legal point to know with Foreclosures, per C.A.R.
Are you a Home Buyer or Home Seller see the reference material on this site.
Act now and benefit from a great Home Search Program. Remember, your privacy is always respected and information is confidential.
49% of Homeowners Would Buy Another In Mt. Washington or Eagle Rock or ???

Agent Forum
Recently I was spending some of my time to training and discussing the Northeast Los Angeles Real Estate market with other agents. A number of agents in my office found and discussed a survey done by Move Homeownership.
The most interesting data – currently 49% of homeowners that could sell their home for what they paid would buy another. The reasons given, in order of importance, were:
- Increased living space due to growing household.
- Ability to place children in an improved school.
- Improved commute.
- Better needs neighborhood.
All of us agreed to these points as very strong. We also added, a change of atmosphere and future potential to the list.














