Roof repair is so sexy

Californians, you probably haven't thought about your roof since the rains last year.  However, before it begins to rain again (if that happens), now is an excellent time to do roof maintenance.  You're probably thinking that I mean shingles.  Actually, the really important stuff is having the vents and pipes properly sealed (sealant wears out) because that's where moisture comes in.  And having the gutters cleared so they don't top out with water that sloshes back where the roof meets the house.  And shingles too.  Maintenance isn't expensive, and an ounce of prevention beats a pound of whatever, bla bla.  

Another reason to do this now: you can actually schedule a roofer now, something that will be impossible once the rains start -- these folks get all booked up really quickly. You don't want to be the person who wrestles a blue tarp up a ladder and over a leak.  It may be less expensive now than in December-January-February, too.

My clients just closed on this cool Highland Park home

Clients Alison and Jason just bought this very cool 3+2 Highland Park bungalow.  Although the house is almost a hundred years old, it has been expanded and extensively rehabbed.  Even though I tried to interest them in other areas, the buyers had their hearts set on a Highland Park home.  They had made really good offers on three other houses prior to this one, and were quite philosophical about their previous disappointments.  Needless to say, we were delighted and went out for bubbly the night we learned that the seller had accepted our offer. (By "we," I mean me and Ali.  Jason is working out of town and has only seen the house once, for ten minutes, after it was already in escrow.  Risky? Yes, but in this hot market, none of us wanted to wait.)

My favorite thing about the house is its stellar location.  You can see and walk to the Occidental College campus from the street.  It's also very easy walk to The York, which is a very cool pub.  I hope Ali and Jason have many wonderful years here.

New price heights for L.A. area homes

I know, I know -- this blog is getting to be just a news clipping service.  But bear with me for yet another article from yesterday's L.A. Times by Andrew Khouri.  Here's the link.  The title is "Home prices in Southern California reach bubble-era highs." Among the other data points is this: L.A. County home prices have risen 9.5% this year to $505,000, which is $25,000 higher than the highest 2007 pre-recession price.  The article also states that economists aren't as worried this time around, since the rise is not driven by risky loans.  Instead, it is driven by an improving economy, historically low interest rates and a shortage of homes for sale.

Do I see prices getting soft and perhaps even dropping a little? Not in the foreseeable future.  I predict another rise in prices in the Spring.  I wish I could foresee more affordability instead.
Photo courtesy of  Brian Chan/Los Angeles Times

Steal this Studio City midcentury rental

3541 Laurelvale has had another rent price reduction! The monthly rent is now $4300 and pets (with some restrictions) are allowed.  This great midcentury features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage with pull-through for extra parking, appliances included, and serene hillside location.  Got kids? It's in the Carpenter School area.  Carpenter Elementary is one of the most renowned schools in the LAUSD district.  Get it while it's hot!

Check out Milla's new listing at 4211 Redwood, Marina Del Rey!

Milla Goldenberg, my associate agent here at Judy Graff Properties, just listed this stunning condo in Marina Del Rey for $899,000.  It has two bedrooms and 2 baths and is almost 1200 sf.  The address is 4211 Redwood Ave., #202, Marina Del Rey 90066.  And it's open Sunday, 10/15, from 2 to 5 pm.  Here's Milla's description:

It's clear from the moment you walk in that a designer lives here, one who has tastefully upgraded every inch of this stunning condo. This exquisite unit in a newer building has had only one owner and is the only one that allows hardwood floors in both bedrooms. With its high ceilings, the open-concept living area extends to a cozy patio and succulent wall. The light-filled master bedroom features a spacious walk-in closet and master bath with marble tile in the shower and Caesarstone countertops. The gated complex includes two tandem parking spaces, a common area for grilling and a bike rack. With a walk score of 80, this unit is less than a mile from the ocean and close to shops, restaurants and theaters. Property also comes with many designer fixtures and furnishings, including high-end stainless steel appliances, stackable washer and dryer, an ethanol fireplace, patio chairs, Murphy bed in the guest room, George Nelson bubble lamps and a walnut console that has been custom built for the living room. All other furnishings are negotiable as well. Don't miss out on this move-in ready beauty that is missing nothing but you.

Price reduction on 3541 Laurelvale lease in Studio City!

The mid-century modern Studio City hillside living fantasy just became a little less expensive.  Yes, less.  3541 Laurelvale is now listed at $4475 a month.  This 3 bedroom (one bed converted from office), 2 bath home features almost 1500 sf, a spacious kitchen and pantry, flat backyard, 2 car garage with pull-through for extra cars, and a peaceful, quiet neighborhood.  Appliances are included without warranty.  Pets are allowed too with breed and weight restrictions.  And, walking distance from Carpenter School. Contact me to view this special property.