"The beloved Getty Center turns 25 years young in 2022, and to celebrate the hilltop museum is hosting a series of free festivals across L.A. On most weekends this summer, the Getty will collaborate with a different local community partner on a two-day arts fair filled with music, workshops and food."
"Each summer, Bard fanatics watch their favorite works come to life at the historic Old Zoo in Griffith Park. Independent Shakespeare Co. puts on a series of lively productions each week, inviting audiences to take a seat on the grass (read: bring a picnic blanket) and enjoy performances like this season’s headliners: Macbeth (Aug 6–Sept 4)."
10 Basement Decorating Ideas That Will Transform Your Home's Lower Level
Many home dwellers are quick to transform their basements into gyms, home theaters, or play areas for their little ones—and as you make these decisions, it's important to consider the style and flow of the space. After all, with the right modifications, your basement just might become one of the most trafficked areas in your home. So, shouldn't it look it's best, too?
28 Creative Ways to Grow a Garden, Even When You're Short On Space
Flowers and plants bring so much beauty to every space, big or small, inside or outside. Given the benefits of gardening, the practice shouldn't be limited to wide-open outdoor spaces and large greenhouses. Get your green thumbs ready for window-box flowers, hanging plants, tiny veggie gardens, and more.
The Top Interior Design Trends to Watch, According to Experts
In 2021, people focused on pieces that mix style and practicality — think self-cleaning bidets for a more luxurious bathroom, for example. But this year, everything from bringing the outdoors into experimenting with pattern and texture, and finding design inspiration from past decades are of interest.
It is our pleasure to bring you the Compass SoCal Q2 2022 Market Report.
The Southern California market shifted in Q2 2022 with declines in home sales activity across the region. Rising interest rates impacted markets around the country. The in-demand Coastal Communities experienced a 23 percent decline in home sales activity in the second quarter. Yet the median sales price in many communities across Southern California continued to show double-digit increases compared to last year’s second quarter.
The median sales price in the Coastal Communities increased by 20 percent to $2.5 million. Pacific Palisades single-family homes experienced a 42 percent decline in home sales activity in the second quarter. Most likely in part to the median sales price for those single-family homes increasing by 41 percent to $5.6 million. In Orange County second quarter home sales activity declined by 30 percent while the median sales price increased by 19 percent to $1.6 million. In Palm Springs/Palm Desert the median sales price for condos in Rancho Mirage increased 46 percent to $597,500. In the second quarter buyers who were only considering single-family homes previously are now purchasing condos due to price consideration. For example, the median sales price for a condo in Encino in the second quarter was $515,000 compared to $2.2 million for a single-family home. Buyers for those Encino condos moved quickly reducing average days on market from 25 days to 19 days compared to last year.
As the market continues to recalibrate as we move into the third quarter do connect with a Compass Agent for the most up-to-date market news and industry insights.
The pandemic has motivated many Americans to make major lifestyle changes, which has often meant relocating—and the resulting shifts in populations should factor into how buyers and renters plan for the months to come.
"Eat|See|Hear travels to different locales throughout the city on select weekends during the summer, showing cult flicks on an inflatable screen taller than your average Malibu mansion. Bring your own bites or sample snacks from the featured food vendor and show up early for a set from local L.A. bands."
Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival has been empowering Queer storytellers and artists since 1982. Enjoy a quintessential LA experience with three nights of films and programs under the stars at The Ford. Pack a picnic and bring a friend to Outfest Under the Stars, where you will meet Hollywood icons of past and present, laugh with hundreds of fellow LGBTQ+ and ally attendees, and be entertained by unforgettable live performances."
There's a big difference between renovating a home and updating it. The former involves a more dramatic execution -knocking down walls or retiling an entire bathroom. Updating is making cosmetic changes such as painting a kitchen or replacing a light fixture. Renovating is, obviously, much more expensive and time-consuming than updating, and that's why many sellers resist it when they're listing their home. But before making any major renovations, ask your real-estate pro if the money you plan to spend can be recouped in the selling price.
Amazing Landscaping Ideas to Create an Enchanting Outdoor Space
Thoughtful landscape design is the key to creating an outdoor oasis, whether you have a tiny courtyard in an urban area or a sprawling estate in the country. Read on for inspiration that will pave the way to better landscape design for every size and style.
Celebrate Independence Day with an old-fashioned 4th of July menu! With classics like apple pie and canapés, along with buttermilk biscuits and cucumber salad, these recipes are a guaranteed hit.
Summer Flowers to Turn Your Garden into the Outdoor Space of Your Dreams
There's nothing like a garden full of gorgeous flowers that can withstand the summer heat. From the captivating aromas to the arresting colors, this roundup of the best summer flowers is all you need to begin designing the perfect garden. Think tall delphiniums, cheery yellow lantanas and much, much more.
With the market being so unpredictable, and interest rates (although rising) are still historically low, a smart place for a long term investment has been and still is Los Angeles real estate. And although inventory is picking up, good homes are still selling quickly and at strong prices. The key is strategy, whether you are buying or selling. Call me for more details and to discuss options.
Real Estate
in the News
9 Best Places to Buy a Mountain
Vacation Home in the U.S.
Mountains have always provided travelers with a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So, it should come as no surprise that more and more people are looking to relocate and buy property in one of the many mountain ranges extending all over the country. Second-home markets in mountain destinations are exploding, attracting people with an array of outdoor activities, fresh air, and stunning views. If you're thinking about buying a mountain vacation home, here are the most attractive real estate markets in the U.S. right now.
"LA Pride may be moving out of West Hollywood, but that won’t stop the city from holding its own Pride celebration. From June 3 to 5, WeHo Pride will bring an LGBTQ+ street fair, music fest and parade to the city. On the music side, headliners for OUTLOUD: Raising Voices include Lil’ Kim, Jessie J, Marina and Years & Years."
"Homegrown fest Viva L.A. is getting an upgrade to a full-blown stadium-caliber lineup this summer. J Balvin, Daddy Yankee, Kali Uchis and Becky G top the lineup for the 10th edition of Viva L.A. Music Festival on June 25 at Dodger Stadium. A portion of proceeds will benefit No Us Without You, which supports undocumented restaurant workers."
Minimalist interior design translates to more than an uncluttered, sparsely decorated room. Birthed from modern design, minimalism embraces simplicity, reducing an interior to what’s necessary for the space to function well. But this clean, no-fuss style doesn’t need to feel uninviting. Balance and warmth are crucial to delivering the elevated beauty this style can create.
Does your garage need a little TLC or a total refresh for better curb appeal? Use these garage remodeling ideas to revamp the space with added style. From quick spruce-ups to major updates, there's a garage remodel project for every budget.
Father's Day falls on a Sunday for a reason: brunch! Celebrate Dad with all the mid-morning decadence he deserves by making savory and sweet brunch recipes that are sure to wow. Just don't let him do the dishes. It's his day!
The 1970's design trend isn't overwhelming modern interiors just yet, but the new season is a harbinger, a sophisticated extraction of the era's good moments. New trends are cherry picking elements such as low-slung seating, playful florals, and even wood paneling. These are all seeing a sophisticated resurgence!
JUST SOLD - $200k OVER LIST IN MULTIPLE OFFERS | Colleagues and friends for over 20 years, workmates on many jobs, cut to 15 years later, a new career for me and...after 30 years in the same, stunning home, it was time for my friend to start a new chapter. So thrilled that she had the trust and faith in me to ask me to be a part of this amazing move in her life. The home will be well loved by its next owner and my friend is in a wonderful place!
I appreciate all those who were able to attend! It was such a blast that we are hoping to do this twice a year, Stay tuned!
Real Estate
in the News
The 15 Best Places to Buy a Home in the U.S.
if You Want it to Increase in Value
For most people, buying a home is one of the biggest purchases they’ll make in their life. And for those looking for a home that will eventually increase in value, location can make a big difference, according to a recent SmartAsset study that ranked real estate markets by their growth in value over time. The study examined home prices dating back to 1997 across 400 metropolitan areas in the U.S. and ranked each based on home value growth and price stability.
"Adding to the throng of artisanal havens, Phillip Dane continues one of the best [flea markets] with this monthly night market called Odd Nights at the Autry. Think of it as dance party meets happy hour meets shopping extravaganza. With live local bands, beer gardens, cocktail lounges, a full bar, gourmet food trucks, a slew of vendors, face painting and more, you might want to start reserving third Fridays in your calendar."
"Watch a slate of classics from the past couple of decades on one of the prettiest rooftops in Hollywood at this outdoor screenings series. All movies are piped in over sets of provided (and sanitized) wireless headphones. Before showtime, make sure to hit up the bar or the on-site kitchen."
Buying New Construction? 5 Costly Mistakes to Avoid
Brand-new homes offer enhanced energy efficiency, amenities and layouts more suited to modern lifestyles, plus the potential to customize spaces that you don’t get with a resale. But if you’re not careful, costs and expectations can spiral out of control.
The good news is that following these tips for buying new-construction homes can save you money — and hassle.
Designers say that color has the ability to transform a house into a home. And yet, so many people still feel a bit hesitant to use vivacious shades in their interiors, fearing it will make the space feel overwhelming. Consider this a colorful playbook for your home refresh!
How Mother's Day Became a National Holiday and How to Celebrate in 2022
Moms truly are superheroes, so it's only fair that we have a whole day dedicated to them. Mother's Day is all about celebrating moms and mother figures everywhere. These days, the holiday is often celebrated with cards, gifts, and breakfast in bed, but it wasn't always that way. The holiday has a fascinating history filled with inspiring women that's worth learning about.
Whether your garden is a large country plot or a group of containers on a city balcony, easy-to-grow annuals can add a burst of color wherever you need it. Why not give yourself the joy of endless summer color?
"Our spring has come at last with the soft laughter of April suns and shadow of April showers."
- Byron Caldwell Smith
Read on for homeowner seasonal tips to consider and discover lifestyle tips curated just for you!
Real Estate in the News
Most and Least Expensive States To Live In
Thinking about your next big move? Choosing a place to live is a highly personal decision, and there are a lot of factors that go into it besides purely financial ones. For example, maybe you live in a place with a high cost of living, but you’re also close to your friends and family. Or maybe you work in an industry that only exists in certain regions. Or maybe you just really love the school district your kids are in. But if the most important thing to you is cost, then read on to see what states were the cheapest and most expensive.
"Catch sets from up-and-coming performers and local legends during this free music series at the Getty, which features a pair of shows from a different band each weekend. The series kicks off in February with Nobuko Miyamoto and continues in March with Salar Nader and in April with Hālau Hula Kealiʻi o Nālani and Daniel Ho."
"Pasadena’s underrated collection of museums and performance spaces open up their doors for free at this biannual art celebration. Take advantage of the free shuttle buses or hoof it between site-specific installations and local institutions such as the Norton Simon Museum, Pacific Asia Museum and more. And, of course, no arts fest would be complete without food trucks, often including local bricks-and-mortar Pie ’n Burger and Twohey’s."
"Watch a slate of classics from the past couple of decades on one of the prettiest rooftops in Hollywood at this outdoor screenings series. All movies are piped in over sets of provided (and sanitized) wireless headphones. Before showtime, make sure to hit up the bar or the on-site kitchen." Buy Tickets here
10 Surprisingly Affordable Housing Markets Across America
With the rise of remote work, Americans no longer had a need to center themselves in big cities, and moved into more affordable housing markets. Home sales hit a 15 per year record high in 2021. Price hikes aside, there are still plenty of housing markets in America that would be deemed affordable for the average family. Check out the top untapped housing markets in the country! Read more on GoBankingRates
Open Floor Plan: In or Out?
Over the past few months, we've been noticing the rise in rooms—not just designated areas of a larger space, but sectioned-off spaces complete with four walls. So, what gives? Is the open floor plan on its way out? Admittedly, it depends on who you ask.
Spring is just around the corner, and with the warmer weather comes a slew of tasty spring produce ready to add some freshness to your meals. Here are a myriad of recipes that really give mangoes, peas, and more spring fruits and vegetables a chance to shine.
Spring is upon us! Read on for homeowner seasonal tips to consider and discover lifestyle tips curated just for you!
Real Estate in the News
Investing in the Metaverse Real Estate Boom
There’s a land rush happening — and it’s not in New York City or Beverly Hills. Early speculators, professional real estate agents, and celebrities are buying up land that doesn’t even exist in the real world. They are investing in metaverse real estate, a concept mind-boggling to most people. So, what exactly is the metaverse? Technologists say the metaverse is the next level of the internet. It’s a virtual reality platform where people can play games, connect with friends, attend meetings, and even go to virtual concerts. But how much does it cost virtual land buyers?
Julie Mollo Homes, along with her fav photographer and talented interior designer are hosting a private event! Come by for margaritas, appys, a professional photo, raffle prizes and some fun! If you're interested, please let us know and we will be sure to include you on the e-vite.
Frank Gehry: Wishful Thinking
"Travel down the rabbit hole and into the Walt Disney Concert Hall to see this free installation from the building’s architect, Frank Gehry. Dubbed Wishful Thinking, the Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland piece has made the jump from Gagosian, Beverly Hills to the BP Hall, where you’ll find 10 twice-life-size figures fashioned out of painted metal." Admission is Free!
"Watch a slate of classics from the past couple of decades on one of the prettiest rooftops in Hollywood at this outdoor screenings series. All movies are piped in over sets of provided (and sanitized) wireless headphones. Before showtime, make sure to hit up the bar or the on-site kitchen." Buy Tickets here
10 Surprisingly Affordable Housing Markets Across America
With the rise of remote work, Americans no longer had a need to center themselves in big cities, and moved into more affordable housing markets. Home sales hit a 15 per year record high in 2021. Price hikes aside, there are still plenty of housing markets in America that would be deemed affordable for the average family. Check out the top untapped housing markets in the country! Read more on GoBankingRates
How to Combine Decorating Styles for a Cohesive Look
Whether you're moving in with your significant other or accommodating the belongings of multiple generations, combining decorating styles can feel daunting. These real-life examples and expert insights will have you confidently combining pieces for a comfortable and consistent home.
8 Traditional Irish Desserts for Celebrating St. Patrick's Day
There's no reason you can't enjoy Irish desserts year-round, whether you have an Irish heritage or not. Whether you're celebrating St. Patrick's Day or just looking for a satisfying, classic Irish dessert, these scones, shortbreads, and cakes will hit the spot.
Many local nurseries will start stocking their greenhouses with young edibles, perennial herbs, and flowers that can transplant in March. However, there's something special about watching a seed you sowed grow into a bountiful, lush plant over time. March is truly a month of planning for, prepping, and enjoying all four seasons in the garden.
