60http://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.comen Phyllis HarbPhyllis HarbPhyllis@RealtorHarb.comnohttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/06/12-month-real-estate-market-snapshot-la-canada-la-crescenta-and-glendale.aspxPhyllis HarbLa CanadaAS OF 7/7/2008 87 homes available Ranging in price from $689,000 -$7,500,000; Averaging 84 days on the market. 17 are vacant; 12 homes are available under $1,000,000. AS OF 7/8/2007 87 homes available Ranging in price from $699,900- $4,700,000; Averaging 60 days on the market16 homes are available under $1,000,000. Synopsis: La Canada: (high end) Asking prices up, days on market up, number available under $1,000,000 down. GlendaleAS OF 7/7/2008 214 homes Ranging from $250,000 - $3,950,000 Averaging 83 ...GlendaleLa CanadaLa Crescentahttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/06/12-month-real-estate-market-snapshot-la-canada-la-crescenta-and-glendale.aspx#Comments9c95c927-c4a9-46fd-bcd7-d022478cb403Sun, 06 Jul 2008 06:26:09 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/05/walk-and-talk-gas-prices-have-skyrocketed--what-can-you-do-about-it.aspxPhyllis HarbI love Italy; I have a girl friend who lives in Rome and one of my favorite aspects about that city is that you either walk or take the Metro. Most days, cars (other than taxis or buses) are not allowed in the city due to pollution (which is detrimental to their monuments). Grocery shopping is rarely done in bulk; and frequent trips for bread, fresh fruit and vegetables are common. Most people have smaller kitchens and most buy only what they require for the next several days; therefore there is less waste. Now that gasoline prices have ...All about Moneyhttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/05/walk-and-talk-gas-prices-have-skyrocketed--what-can-you-do-about-it.aspx#Comments96078302-45c7-4171-88d4-31cd22c1575dSat, 05 Jul 2008 07:24:11 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/04/2008074declutteryourhome.aspxPhyllis HarbThe more I advise my clients to declutter their homes prior to “going to market”, the more disgusted I become with my own mess. I have been on a mission to get rid of “stuff”. In my closet, were thousands of dollars (yes, thousands of dollars) worth of St. John Knits, which I have not worn in years – YEARS! I finally donated them to the Glendale YWCA and I felt good about it. Women in need (typically abused) come to the YW and get their life back in order; perhaps they will wear my clothes on a job ...Clutter Busterhttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/04/2008074declutteryourhome.aspx#Commentsb3cc895f-23da-4fab-834f-f074dcc33637Fri, 04 Jul 2008 08:11:00 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/03/pasadena-sales-over-ten-million-a-tough-sell.aspxPhyllis HarbIn April, I posted about Pasadena's high end (ten million plus) real estate. At that time there were three homes listed over 10,000,000. At present there continue to be three Pasadena homes for sale priced over $10,000,000. One of the three (from my original post) has been reduced to $9,500,000 and another home has just been listed for $17,500. The other two homes (from my April post) have each been on the market for over 600 days! To date, no homes in excess of $10,000,000 have sold (as reported in the MLS). ...Pasadenahttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/03/pasadena-sales-over-ten-million-a-tough-sell.aspx#Commentsd426abcc-02fe-48fc-8390-1f6e1f146ffdThu, 03 Jul 2008 03:53:00 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/01/los-angeles-public-swimming-pools.aspxPhyllis HarbTropico Station (Blog) recently posted about local (Burbank and Griffith Park) pools and where to cool off in our Los Angeles heat. As a kindergartner I learned to swim at the Glendale YWCA. The pool has recently reopened to the public; you don’t need to purchase a membership to swim. This is a great way to beat the heat AND to support the Y’s efforts in offering safety, security and hope to women, children and families. ...GlendaleThings to dohttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/01/los-angeles-public-swimming-pools.aspx#Comments36481ecc-314b-494b-8cea-e35d671b873cWed, 02 Jul 2008 06:21:10 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/01/last-weeks-foreclosures-glendale-la-canada-la-crescenta-and-montrose.aspxPhyllis HarbThere were 11 Notices of Default (NOD) last week; three in La Canada. One of the La Canada NOD’s is presently listed, one was purchased in 2005 (likely owe more than their home is worth) and the other purchased in 1992 (maybe spent their equity???). One NOD for La Crescenta, another in Montrose, the remainder in Glendale. The foreclosure analysis: Montrose – house with guest houseThis property was purchased in December 2005 for $605,000. At time of foreclosure $715,500 was (plus arrears) owed. Glendale’s Chevy Chase CanyonThis home was purchased August 2005 for $700,000 with 0 ...Foreclosureshttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/07/01/last-weeks-foreclosures-glendale-la-canada-la-crescenta-and-montrose.aspx#Comments546545bf-eba6-4bb4-a81b-907c11649bb6Tue, 01 Jul 2008 09:52:41 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/30/pasadena-la-canada-real-estate-news.aspxPhyllis HarbJust read: Curbed’s Monday Morning Linkage “Pasadena Realtors out of work! Offices shuttering!"Coldwell Banker has long dominated the Pasadena market; in prior years they have purchased a handful of other established and highly regarded firms (acquiring their most successful agents). The article claims that 10-11 of their 40 agents will be moving from La Canada to Glendale.... we’ll see how that plays out. I know my firm; Dickson Podley (with numerous offices including La Canada AND Pasadena) successfully recruited several of their top agents. I think the “bean counters” again missed their mark by closing their La ...Real Estate Newshttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/30/pasadena-la-canada-real-estate-news.aspx#Commentsf05b5e20-0ae9-4979-8474-6821813ad3f7Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:28:38 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/30/landscaping-planting-and-gardening-at-my-los-angeles-home.aspxPhyllis HarbIt started with our tree which was infested with carpenter ants. Now that the tree was going, we had a lot of other plants that were overgrown or simply didn’t fit with our home’s Georgian Colonial style. Several years ago, George had admired the neighbor’s yard and the next thing I knew, their landscaper was hired and our front lawn resembled a Polynesian resort. It had to go… and finally it is gone! I had read about the Edible Estate at Descanso Gardens in La Canada. The concept is simply that your front yard shouldn’t be wasted ...remodelingHomeowner's Benefits and WoesGreen Homeshttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/30/landscaping-planting-and-gardening-at-my-los-angeles-home.aspx#Comments7ab15850-7c28-4777-a33a-599f061e0a2dMon, 30 Jun 2008 09:14:39 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/29/los-angeles--best-chinese-restaurant.aspxPhyllis HarbMore than 20 years ago, my sister and I used to dine at Chi Dynasty, which was originally located in Glendale (where at that time she and I both lived in the same Glendale condo). After years of “China Town” dinners, we discovered “gourmet Chinese”. We were converts and I actually purchased a wok and started cooking my own dishes. After several years, (Glendale's) Chi Dynasty disappeared… One day it just wasn’t there. A few years later it reopened on Hillhurst in Los Feliz and once again it became our favorite restaurant. My sister even ...Things to dohttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/29/los-angeles--best-chinese-restaurant.aspx#Comments76d27afe-40b8-4340-a8e5-ef9203aa5f4bMon, 30 Jun 2008 06:34:50 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/28/what-is-a-porte-cochere.aspxPhyllis HarbWhen I first started selling real estate in 1989, I thought that after working over ten years in mortgage banking, I knew "everything". I soon discovered, I didn't know the proper name of many architectural elements found in our (Los Angeles) vintage homes. Wikipedia states: "A porte-cochere (French porte-cochère, literally "coach door", also called a carriage porch) is the architectural term for a porch or portico-like structure at a main or secondary entrance to a building, through which it is possible for a horse and carriage or motor vehicle to pass, in order for the occupants to ...architecturehttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/28/what-is-a-porte-cochere.aspx#Commentsb143e53d-0ee3-422d-8cc9-db7d795d27f9Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:34:57 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/26/los-angeles-4th-of-july-events-and-fireworks.aspxPhyllis HarbThere is always something to do in LA! Check out Los Angeles's July 4, 2008 options: Burbank: Starlight Bowl’s Tribute to the music of the Drifters, Del Vikings and the Flamingos, with the American Gold Band. 6:30 PM; Firework at 9 PM. Ticket info:Hollywood: Hollywood Bowl with the LA Dodgers. July 2-4th, 7:30 PM. (323) 850-2000 Ticket info: La Crescenta: Independence Day Fireworks Show. Gates open at 4 PM at La Crescenta Elementary.Fireworks approximately 9:30 PM Los Angeles: Jazz and Blues Festival in Leimert Park. 1 – 7:00 PM (213) 202-5500Marina Del ...Things to dohttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/26/los-angeles-4th-of-july-events-and-fireworks.aspx#Comments39a938c2-ea2b-4150-bad3-a5b3268dc2efFri, 27 Jun 2008 06:38:06 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/26/more-tree-trouble.aspxPhyllis HarbI have been paying close attention to the trees at my home. The other evening, George and I were getting into his car when we noticed several "flying ants" on the hood. We discovered that they were swarming around a tree near the house and driveway. I immediately contacted my neighbor, worried that if the tree was infested with termites that her home and mine would both be infested. Then I contacted, Tri-Pacific Termite. The verdict: my tree is diseased but not with termites... Maybe just ants, but the tree had been "eaten" through ...Homeowner's Benefits and Woeshttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/26/more-tree-trouble.aspx#Comments10508ea6-c3b0-4229-942c-3b8178434c93Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:38:24 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/25/los-angeles-realtors-most-often-asked-question.aspxPhyllis HarbIn the previous four days, I have been asked for recommendations of: A handyman, mover, air conditioning repair, and an attorney. I don’t know about other Realtors, but the question I am most frequently asked is related to referrals of Los Angeles contractors, movers, electricians, etc. During times of extreme heat, cold or heavy rains I receive even more calls. Over the years I have opened my “rolodex” to friends, clients and my real estate web site's visitors. If you need a Los Angeles home maintenance referral go to HarbsList.com ….. I only add ...remodelinghttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/25/los-angeles-realtors-most-often-asked-question.aspx#Commentsad995a24-4bcd-4e5b-ae6d-737b1fafec7fWed, 25 Jun 2008 11:57:55 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/24/glendale-la-canada-la-crescenta-and-montrose--last-weeks-foreclosures.aspxPhyllis HarbLast week, there were eleven notice of defaults (NOD’s); ten were in Glendale, one in La Crescenta and none in Montrose or La Canada. Last week’s foreclosures: One on Ocean View in La Canada’s SageBrush neighborhood, which is not the La Canada school district. This home was purchased in January 2005 for $699,000 and most recently listed for $854,950. At time of foreclosure there was a first and second totaling $807,500 (plus arrears). _________________________________________________________________________________________ *This Glendale "short sale" condo was listed for $335,000. Purchased in December 2005 for $399,000 – amount owed on first and second at ...ForeclosuresShort Salehttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/24/glendale-la-canada-la-crescenta-and-montrose--last-weeks-foreclosures.aspx#Commentsd243729e-432c-4c39-9d25-2ab1a15b1fd0Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:49:26 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/23/hey-baby--what-is-your-homes-astrological-sign.aspxPhyllis HarbYou have an astrological sign, but what about your home? After “analyzing”, the Chinese Zodiac, I have arrived at your home’s horoscope, just check the year your home was built to determine, you home’s sign. RATGeared for entertaining. This home will constantly bring friends and family together. When in harmony, relationships will be strengthened here. OXStrong and dependable. When in harmony, this home will not suffer from pesky quirks and unexpected mishaps. TIGERLikes to be noticed: the paint, the landscaping, this home only wants to stand out from the crowd. RABBITShy, ...Humorhttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/23/hey-baby--what-is-your-homes-astrological-sign.aspx#Commentsb41beaff-47ba-47d5-9006-be0640d63515Mon, 23 Jun 2008 05:34:58 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/22/los-angeles-home-staging-strikes-again.aspxPhyllis HarbWe just closed escrow on a La Crescenta home. We received three offers within the first few days of listing, and even with the multiple offer situation we weren’t able to push the selling price over asking. But the good news for our happy home seller is that she did sell for full price. AND the buyer was delightful; of course, I have worked with their Realtor before and he is very professional; his clients are typically as pleasant as he. We had one bump in the escrow, but only one is pretty good. We resolved ...Home Staginghttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/22/los-angeles-home-staging-strikes-again.aspx#Comments88eeff55-d44d-4ae2-9924-100255caa056Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:48:10 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/21/los-angeles-free-concerts-in-the-park.aspxPhyllis HarbThere is always something to do in Los Angeles. And often it's free! Check out the Free Los Angeles Park Concerts Alhambra appears to have the local communities beat hands down. Their free concert series reads like a Las Vegas Marquee: July 19, the SpinnersJuly 26, the Beach BoysAugust 2, ForeignerAugust 9, Kenny LogginsAugust 16, the Fab FourAugust 29, Tower of Power Stadium seating accommodates 3600 – 5 PM seating opens up – Headliner Band starts @ 8:30 with other warm up bands prior to. Second Street – between Main Street and Commonwealth Ave. (626) 570-3242 ...Things to dohttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/21/los-angeles-free-concerts-in-the-park.aspx#Comments9b28eb72-2bd9-4fd3-8394-f1e843cb30fdSat, 21 Jun 2008 05:53:35 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/20/there-is-no-bee-shortage-at-my-home.aspxPhyllis HarbWe have a swarm of bees hovering over our swimming pool. I wonder how many bees equal a swarm, but there are at least twenty. I read that there is a bee crisis and if anyone wants my bees they are welcome to them. Glendale's Virgil’s Hardware informed me that bee traps are illegal due to the (bee) shortage. I purchased the hanging yellow traps, but only caught one bee (the traps are for wasps). I contacted an exterminator, but he said that as there is no hive on my property there is ...Homeowner's Benefits and Woeshttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/20/there-is-no-bee-shortage-at-my-home.aspx#Commentsd1f2b832-63c9-46a2-947c-6d6d5bbcee71Fri, 20 Jun 2008 10:31:51 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/20/why-i-dont-work-for-a-big-company.aspxPhyllis HarbSeveral years ago, Coldwell Banker closed their Burbank office “just like that”. No real notice, nothing, their Realtors scrambled to find a new office and at the time Dilbeck Realtors picked up quite a few of their agents. Well, Coldwell Banker “did it again” they are closing their La Canada office and one of their numerous offices in Pasadena. I am certain Dickson Podley will get our share of many of their best. ...In a Realtor's Weekhttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/20/why-i-dont-work-for-a-big-company.aspx#Commentsbb7fce87-1eb8-4e69-9158-68716157eb10Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:44:32 GMThttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/20/glendale-flip-gone-bad.aspxPhyllis HarbIf you like the story "behind" the story, you may be interested in the update to my post on this Glendale Flip Gone Bad. This is the home that has now sold four times in three years. It just closed escrow for $655,000- $21,000 over asking price. ...GlendaleForeclosuresFlipping Propertyhttp://los-angeles-real-estate-blog.com/2008/06/20/glendale-flip-gone-bad.aspx#Comments775691c9-4da3-4a68-aec9-cda1d34aa4cfSun, 22 Jun 2008 07:36:07 GMT