We'll kick things off with shameless plug for our new website, which you've obviously found!
Here you'll be able to find more info about the two of us there, as well as featured listings of great architectural and historical properties throughout Los Angeles.
Also, we have multiple buyers looking for homes in the Windsor Square and Larchmont (Third Street Elementary) areas. Please let us know if you or any of your neighbors are thinking of selling!
Did You Know?
* With limited inventory, who's in the real estate market right now? Here's what we're seeing:
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Buyers who are coming in are highly-qualified—pre-approved and motivated.
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There are even more buyers waiting on the sidelines for a lower interest rate.
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A high percentage of buyers and sellers are in “need-to” situations. They need a bigger house because of a new baby, work, divorce, or down-sizing.
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Down-sizing buyers are selling their current home and paying all-cash for a new, smaller home.
* Home values have hit new all-time highs according to Case-Shiller, FHFA, CoreLogic, Black Knight and Zillow, more than recovering from the downturn we saw in the second half of 2022. This year, prices are on pace to appreciate between 5-9% depending on the index, based on the reported pace of appreciation through July. These indexes show that now remains a great opportunity for building wealth through homeownership and appreciation gains.
* The typical American household would need to use 42 weeks of income to buy a new car, as of August, up from 33 weeks 3 years ago. The typical credit card carried a 20.7% interest rate in May, up from 14.6% in February 2022. Rates on securities backed-loans, which are backed by a customer’s investment portfolio, have risen from about 3% before the Fed raised rates, to around 8% now. (WSJ)
* Hempcrete is a new type of building block developed from hemp fiber, with an estimated lifespan of at least 300 years, longer than traditional concrete lifespan of 50 to 100 years. Hempcrete is made from hemp fiber, which is very strong. Hemp grows very fast and can be produced in mass quantities. These blocks are also used without the need for concrete. They use special glue, which is more eco-friendly than cement and offer good insulation, which reduces heating and cooling costs. Concrete is known for being a very poor insulator and hence high heating and cooling expenses. (Inhabitat)
*Here are some design trends to look forward to in 2024:
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Eco-friendly design including Improved Indoor Air Quality using low-VOC or VOC-free materials such as paints, adhesives, and furniture that emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air, leading to better indoor air quality. Poor indoor air quality can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems.
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Natural and hypoallergenic materials that are less likely to harbor dust, mold, and allergens that can significantly benefit people with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
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Use of non-toxic materials minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals.
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Energy Efficiency for lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems that can lead to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier planet and potentially lower utility costs.
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Connecting with nature profoundly impacts our well-being, and biophilic design aims to bring the outdoors inside. In 2024, expect to see an increased focus on integrating natural elements into interior spaces. Living walls, indoor gardens, and large windows that allow ample natural light.
Local Happenings
OCTOBER 6-29TH, 6-10PM
Carved at Descanso Gardens
"Nestled within the picturesque Descanso Gardens, this annual event showcases a mesmerizing display of intricately carved pumpkins that will leave you in awe. Encounter larger-than-life sculptures, bringing to life creatures, characters, and captivating scenes."
Tickets must be purchased in advanced, click here.
