Foreclosures Down Sixty Percent in SOCAL

According to Gregory J. Wilcox of the Los Angeles Daily News, there is good news for the real estate market as we look ahead to 2014. Foreclosures were down a full 60% all across Southern California in 2013’s fourth quarter. This is another indication that the housing market continues on a upswing. swingingsold

“In 2013, we got a better economy and a housing market that is much improved. Overall, this is good news as we look ahead to 2014. Still, the housing market will bump into supply constraints, and interest rates — still close to historical lows — are on the rise,” said Robert Kleinhenz, chief economist at the Kyser Center for Economic Research in Los Angeles.
As we enter into 2014 we will see more and more evidence of the healing of the realty market.

Plans to Limit New Offices and Banks in Downtown MB Scrapped.

The Manhattan Beach Planning Commission, scrapped a proposal to limit offices and banks to open on store front properties.
MamaDsoutsideview
Under the now defunct proposal, new offices and banks would not be allowed on street fronts on Manhattan Beach Boulevard, Highland Avenue and Manhattan Avenue downtown or on Highland and Rosecrans avenues in the north end, but existing offices and banks would be permitted to remain.

Understanding the concerns, the commissioners directed the staff to undertake developing a master plan by acquiring more public comment, possible at a public forum or workshop.

Do I Need to Spend the Money on a Home Inspection?

I know that it seems like all you are doing is putting out money and you do to even own the home yet. But this is a must do expense. I do prefer that clients use their own inspector so they are totally comfortable with the results. The best thing to do is ask friends and acquaintance for recommendations. Be sure you get references from the Inspector and check them out. You want a licensed and certified master inspector.

This cost you a few hundred dollars, but is well worth the money. You could negotiate with seller to see if they will pay for the inspection. After all it is their property they are trying to sell to you as your dream home. Lets make sure it is not a money pit. Below are the area of the home inspection.

Structural Inspection
Roofing and Exterior Inspection
HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Inspection
Interior Inspection
Insulation and Ventilation Inspection
Insist the property is inspected for dangerous molds.

Be sure a get a copy of the report and keep it for your records.

Presenting the 2014 Torrance Rose Float Design “Everyone Plays”

This time next week the floats will be gone, the crowds dispersed and there will be no evidence in the streets of Pasadena of the beautiful the Tournament of Rose.

Torrance is one of the few cities that still sponsor a float, and the only city in the South Bay to do so.. Our float is done with donations and all volunteer work. Our city funds are not used. And of course we welcome you to volunteer to help decorate our 2014 float a reality.

Below is a rendering of our float this year.

2014 Torrance Rose Float Design “Everyone Plays”
Tournament of Rose’s Theme: “Follow Your Dreams!”

float

NEW!!! FUNdraising Fun
Dine at local eateries and raise money for the
Torrance Rose Float Association.