Welcome to the Wasserman Real Estate Group blog, where we showcase the best of the Coachella Valley's entertainment, sports venues, and concerts along with tips for buyers and sellers of real estate. Stay up-to-date with the latest happenings in the area and discover the perfect home to experience all that this vibrant community has to offer.

April 13, 2023

55+ Active Adult Housing Market Update

The 55+ Active Adult housing market is showing signs of correction as prices have been adjusting in recent months. According to the Franklin Loan Center Active Adult Price Index, which tracks the average price of a 1,900 square foot home in eight active adult communities, the average price as of March was $585,209, reflecting a 2.2% increase compared to the previous year. However, when looking at individual developments, the average gains ranged from 5% for Trilogy Polo Club to as low as 0.2% for Trilogy, indicating variation in price performance across different communities.

Sales in the 55+ Active Adult market have seen a decline, with an average of 63 units sold per month in all eight communities in March, marking a 32% decrease compared to the previous year. Dollar sales of the active adult communities also decreased, averaging $36 million per month, down 29% from the previous year. This suggests a slowdown in demand for homes in these communities.

Inventory levels in the 55+ Active Adult market have increased, with listings in the eight communities totaling 188 units at the end of March, compared to only 41 units in the previous year. The "months of sales" ratio, which measures the time it would take to sell all available inventory at the current rate of sales, was 3.0 months in March, indicating a better balance of supply and demand compared to the previous year's ratio of 0.4 months. However, it is still lower than the pre-pandemic average, suggesting a potential excess supply in the market.

The average number of "Days in the Market," which measures the time it takes for a home to sell, has increased in the 55+ Active Adult market. In March, the average days on market was 61 days, compared to 32 days in the previous year. The range of average selling times varied from 32 days in Villa Portofino to 77 days in Trilogy Polo Club, indicating differences in market activity among different communities.

Price discounts or premiums in the 55+ Active Adult market have also shifted. In March, homes in the eight communities sold with an average discount of 2.2%, compared to an average premium of 1.3% in the previous year. Only one of the eight communities, Four Seasons at Terra Lago, continued to sell homes with an average premium of 0.9%. This suggests that sellers may need to offer discounts to attract buyers in the current market conditions.

In summary, the 55+ Active Adult market is experiencing price corrections, with average prices showing modest gains but with variations across different communities. Sales and dollar sales have declined, while inventory levels have increased. Average days on market have also lengthened, and price discounts have become more prevalent. These market indicators reflect a potential shift in supply and demand dynamics, indicating a changing landscape for the 55+ Active Adult housing market. It's important for buyers, sellers, and industry professionals to closely monitor these trends to make informed decisions in this evolving market.

Posted in Housing Report
April 4, 2023

March Real Estate Update

This is the Coachella Valley's real estate market update. We'll be reviewing the most up-to-date data regarding home prices, sales and inventory, days on market, price discounts/premiums, and other pertinent info.

Let's start with prices. Last month, the median price for a detached property in Coachella Valley increased by $7,210 to $689,000 - an increase of 4.4% over last year. Although this was the third consecutive monthly rise, it was expected as prices are still in their strong seasonal period. Attached prices rose $26,000 to $460,000 in March from their May peak and have seen slight year-over-year gains as well. Cathedral City and Desert Hot Springs experienced the largest increases year over year at 6.6% and 6.2% respectively; every city except Indio and La Quinta experienced growth since 2012.

Let's now turn our attention to sales. Last month saw over 700 transactions and the three-month average of monthly sales increased to 545 units from 449 the month before, up from 449 the prior month. However, these figures remain 30% below March's average of 788 units sold before the pandemic began. Cathedral City experienced the greatest decrease in sales at 57% followed by Desert Hot Springs (47%), Indio (44%), Palm Desert and Coachella with smaller decreases at 23% and 19%, respectively).

Let's now examine inventory levels and "months-of-sales" ratios in the Valley. As of April 1st, inventory stood at 1,976 units - nearly identical to last month but 1,298 more than one year earlier. Although we had hoped inventory would reach 2,500 by April end, it appears unlikely given how low new listings remain at historic lows. The Valley's "months-of-sales" ratio stood at 3.2, slightly higher than last month but still reflecting lower inventories rather than higher sales numbers.

At the end of March, the Valley experienced a median day on market of 48 days - this is unchanged from last year but 25 days longer than its attached market counterpart in Palm Springs (37 days). At 37 days, detached homes in both cities experienced the shortest median selling time at 27 days; Palm Springs boasted 28 days as its attached median sale time.

Let's examine price discounts/premiums: in comparison to 50.3% last year, 13.4% of March sales were above list price this month - still close to the historical norm of 10%. Detached homes experienced average selling prices close to 10% across all cities except Coachella at 2.2% and Bermuda Dunes at 5.4%; attached home discounts averaged 1.8% in Cathedral City and 5.5% in Indio respectively.

You can view the full report by CLICKING HERE!

April 4, 2023

10 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home Before Listing it for Sale

Before listing your home for sale, it's essential to consider what repairs or improvements may be necessary to make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Here are some common fixes and upgrades that can increase the value of your house and draw in more interested parties:

  • Fix any major structural issues, such as a leaky roof, cracked foundation, or malfunctioning plumbing and electrical systems. Get a professional home inspection done prior to listing the property.
  • Replace outdated appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers.
  • Refresh the paint of your home both inside and out for fresh appeal.
  • Repair any damage to your floors or carpets or replace them if they're old and stained.
  • Upgrade your home's lighting fixtures for a brighter, more inviting atmosphere.
  • Plus, boost curb appeal by upgrading landscaping around your property.
  • Upgrade your kitchen and bathrooms to modernize the space and increase functionality.
  • Clear away clutter and personal items so potential buyers can visualize themselves living there.
  • Consider adding additional storage solutions like built-in shelving or closets for added convenience.
  • Refresh your deck, porch, or other outdoor living spaces with a fresh coat of sealant or paint.

Remember, the repairs and improvements you make should be based on your budget, the current condition of your home, and what potential buyers in your area want. It's wise to consult a real estate agent or professional home stager for advice on what will have the greatest impact in your market.

Posted in Selling a Home
April 3, 2023

Coachella Valley Native American History

The Native American history of the Coachella Valley can be traced back over 2,000 years, with evidence of human habitation dating back to some of the earliest known cultures in the region. The Cahuilla people were the primary inhabitants before Spanish settlement in late 18th century; they belonged to a larger group known as Uto-Aztecan language family. The Cahuilla were renowned for their vibrant culture, close relationship with nature and strong sense of community.

Cahuilla people were renowned for their adeptness at using natural resources to survive in a harsh desert climate. They had perfected hunting, fishing and gathering wild plants; furthermore, they developed an effective irrigation system to cultivate crops on such barren land. Furthermore, Cahuilla traded with other Native American groups within the region by exchanging goods like salt, turquoise and seashells.

One of the most significant archaeological sites in valley is Painted Canyon, situated within Mecca Hills Wilderness. Here, visitors can witness rock art panels created by Cahuilla people over 1,000 years ago that depict various images such as humans, animals and geometric patterns. These designs offer insight into their spiritual and cultural beliefs.

Another prominent cultural landmark in the valley is the Coachella Valley Preserve, home to Thousand Palms Oasis. This oasis was an invaluable resource for Cahuilla people during times of drought by providing water and food in a harsh desert environment. They still hold a deep spiritual connection to this oasis today, maintaining it as an important cultural landmark.

In the late 18th century, when Spain arrived in Cahuilla territory, they brought with them disease, violence and cultural disruption. The Cahuilla people were forced to adapt to new social and economic systems while many were made to work on Spanish ranches or mines. Despite these hardships however, they have maintained their sense of cultural identity while preserving traditions and beliefs.

Today, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians are one of the most prominent Native American tribes in the area. With a long and rich history in the region, they remain an influential cultural and economic force today. Additionally, they operate several casinos and resorts nearby and take part in many cultural and environmental preservation initiatives.

Native American history is an integral part of its cultural identity and offers visitors to the Coachella Valley a window into the region's past. The Cahuilla peoples' intimate connection to land, profound spiritual beliefs, and complex social systems all play an integral role in creating this vibrant tapestry of culture. Today visitors can learn about Native American heritage through guided tours, exhibits, and community events.

Finally, the valley's Native American history is an integral component of its cultural heritage. Cahuilla people have made significant contributions and left us a lasting legacy, which should be honored and celebrated. By learning more about their history and culture, we can gain a deeper appreciation for both its beauty and inhabitants.

The Coachella Valley is dedicated to preserving its Native American history through the La Quinta Museum, which features exhibits on Cahuilla culture and natural history of the region. Furthermore, there are various events held here throughout the year such as lectures, workshops, and cultural demonstrations.

Another significant cultural landmark is Cabot's Pueblo Museum, situated nearby Desert Hot Springs. This unique example of indigenous architecture showcases Native American artifacts and was founded by Cabot Yerxa - an early settler who was passionate about Native American culture.

Visitors will not only enjoy the museums, but they can also explore the many natural wonders of the region such as Santa Rosa Mountains, Salton Sea and Joshua Tree National Park. These landscapes were vitally important to Cahuilla people who relied on them for food, water and shelter.

Recent years have seen an uptick in interest in Native American history and culture within the United States, leading to a greater respect for their contributions and legacy. La Quinta stands as an inspiring example of this effort to preserve and celebrate its Native American heritage, serving as an inspiration to other cities and towns across America.

As we look towards the future, it is essential that we draw inspiration from our past and honor the legacy of Cahuilla people and other indigenous groups. By doing so, we can gain a better appreciation for our country's vibrant cultural tapestry and work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all.

Posted in History
April 3, 2023

Price Reduction!

Monterey Country Club CondominiumReduced to $540,000

If you're looking for a beautiful home in a premier country club setting, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium inside Monterey Country Club is a must-see. This unit features the popular 300 Plan with panoramic southern exposure and amazing views of the golf course and southern mountain range.

The 300 Plan includes a lush landscaped private entry courtyard, an oversized garage with ample room for two vehicles and a golf cart, and a large primary bedroom walk-in closet. The kitchen is light, bright and offers astonishing views of the golf course and mountains. The home also has a large living room, a formal dining area, and a spacious outdoor patio, making it perfect for entertaining guests or simply relaxing with family.

The Saltillo pavers and atrium add to the charm of this unit, giving it the feel of a warm and inviting English cottage. The home has been well-maintained and is move-in ready, with two new patio sliding glass doors installed in bedrooms 1 and 2 in 2019, new flooring installed in various parts of the house in 2019, and the kitchen and bathrooms remodeled in 2020.

Monterey Country Club is a premier country club that features 27 holes of championship golf, pickleball, tennis, fitness center, pro shops, and full-service clubhouse with an active social calendar. This gorgeous condominium is conveniently located near the world-famous El Paseo Drive Shopping District and is just a short drive to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, home to the BNP Paribas Open, and the Empire Polo Club, home to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and the Stagecoach Festival.

If you're ready to experience the beauty and luxury of Monterey Country Club, schedule a tour of this stunning condominium today. Welcome home!

Posted in Buying A Home
April 2, 2023

Thinking About Moving To Bermuda Dunes, CA: Here are 10 Reasons Why You Should!

Thinking About Moving To Bermuda Dunes, CA: Here are 10 Reasons Why You Should!

Moving to Bermuda Dunes


 

Are you in the market for a new home and considering moving to Bermuda Dunes, CA?  Then you will be happy to know this charming community,  located in Riverside County, boasts beautiful weather, lush golf courses, and plenty of nearby amenities. For those who are looking for an active lifestyle or relaxed retirement, you will be sure to find it here. So if you're ready to learn more about Bermuda Dunes and what it would look like to live there, keep reading!

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Posted in Buying A Home
April 2, 2023

The Power of Heavy Metal: A Look at Goldenvoice's History and the Power Trip Festival's Musical Legends

GoldenVoice is an American entertainment company that has been involved in the production and promotion of concerts and music festivals since the 1980s. The company was founded by Gary Tovar, who was a former punk rock music promoter in Los Angeles.

In the early years, GoldenVoice focused on booking shows for punk rock and alternative bands at small venues in and around Los Angeles. They were instrumental in the rise of the punk rock scene in Southern California, promoting shows for bands such as Bad Religion, Suicidal Tendencies, and the Circle Jerks.

In the late 1980s, GoldenVoice expanded its operations to include larger venues and began promoting concerts for mainstream acts such as Madonna and Janet Jackson. They also started producing their own music festivals, including the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which debuted in 1999. Coachella quickly became one of the most popular music festivals in the world, with attendance reaching over 99,000 people in 2017.

GoldenVoice continued to expand in the 2000s, producing several other music festivals, including the Stagecoach Country Music Festival and the Desert Trip Classic Rock Festival. The company also acquired a number of smaller music promoters, including FYF Fest, and has continued to promote shows for both established and up-and-coming artists.

In 2012, GoldenVoice was acquired by AEG Presents, a subsidiary of Anschutz Entertainment Group. However, the company has continued to operate largely independently, with Tovar still serving as a consultant and the Coachella festival remaining one of the company's biggest events.

Overall, GoldenVoice has played a significant role in the development of the Southern California music scene and has become one of the most influential concert promoters in the world. Its focus on producing high-quality events and supporting emerging artists has made it a favorite among music fans and industry professionals alike.

Power Trip Festival

The Power Trip festival is a heavy metal and rock music festival that takes place in Indio, California, and is organized by Goldenvoice. The festival will feature some of the biggest names in the industry. The festival is a celebration of the power and energy of heavy metal music and is known for its high-energy performances and enthusiastic crowds.

Metallica

Metallica is one of the most iconic heavy metal bands of all time and has been at the forefront of the genre since the 1980s. The band was formed in Los Angeles in 1981 and has released ten studio albums to date. Metallica is known for its high-energy performances, powerful riffs, and intense lyrics. 

Past Performances at Coachella

Metallica has performed at Coachella only once, in 2011. They headlined the event on the second night of the festival, which took place on April 23rd that year. Metallica's performance at Coachella was highly anticipated by fans, as it was their first time playing at the festival. The band delivered an energetic and powerful set, performing many of their most popular songs and putting on a memorable show for the crowd.

Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden is another iconic heavy metal band that has been a mainstay of the genre since the 1980s. The band was formed in London in 1975 and has released seventeen studio albums to date. Iron Maiden is known for its epic, storytelling lyrics, powerful riffs, and high-energy performances. 

Past Performances at Coachella

Iron Maiden has never performed at Coachella. While the festival has featured many legendary rock and metal acts over the years, Iron Maiden has yet to be included in the lineup. However, the band has performed at several other major music festivals around the world, and their high-energy live shows have earned them a devoted fan base. Iron Maiden continues to tour regularly and is considered one of the most influential and iconic bands in the history of heavy metal music.

AC/DC

AC/DC is a legendary rock band that was formed in Sydney, Australia, in 1973. The band is known for its hard-hitting riffs, catchy lyrics, and electrifying performances. AC/DC has released seventeen studio albums to date and has sold over 200 million records worldwide. 

Past Performances at Coachella

AC/DC has performed at Coachella only once, in 2015. They headlined the festival's first weekend on April 10th, playing a 20-song set that featured many of their classic hits, including "Highway to Hell," "Thunderstruck," and "Back in Black." The band's performance at Coachella was highly anticipated, as it marked their first appearance in the United States since 2009. AC/DC delivered a high-energy show that thrilled fans and demonstrated why they remain one of the most popular and enduring rock bands of all time.

Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne is a legendary rock and heavy metal singer who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the band Black Sabbath. Osbourne has released twelve studio albums as a solo artist and is known for his distinctive voice, theatrical performances, and energetic stage presence. 

Past Performances at Coachella

Ozzy Osbourne has performed at Coachella twice, first in 2002 and then again in 2011. His first appearance at the festival was part of the Ozzfest tour, which was held in conjunction with Coachella that year. Osbourne's performance was a highlight of the festival and featured many of his most popular songs, including "Crazy Train," "Mr. Crowley," and "No More Tears." His second appearance at Coachella was a solo performance, in which he headlined the festival's third night on April 17th. Osbourne's performances at Coachella have cemented his status as a legendary figure in the world of heavy metal music.

Tool

Tool is a progressive metal band that was formed in Los Angeles in 1990. The band is known for its complex, thought-provoking lyrics, intricate musical arrangements, and powerful live performances. Tool has released five studio albums to date and has won multiple Grammy Awards for its music. 

Past Performances at Coachella

Tool has performed at Coachella a total of four times. Their first appearance at the festival was in 1999, and they also played in 2006, 2019, and 2022. Tool's performances at Coachella are known for their intensity and their use of intricate visual effects, which add to the overall sensory experience of their shows. The band's unique blend of progressive rock and metal has earned them a dedicated following, and their performances at Coachella have helped to solidify their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their era.

The Power Trip festival is a celebration of heavy metal and rock music and has featured some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Metallica, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne, and Tool. As we've seen, these bands have all left an indelible mark on the world of music, and their performances at the Power Trip festival have only cemented their status as legends of the genre. Goldenvoice, the company behind the festival, has a long and storied history of promoting and producing some of the most iconic music events in history, and the Power Trip festival is no exception. For fans of heavy metal and rock music this festival is a must attend!

Posted in Entertainment
April 2, 2023

Experience the Thrill of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: A Guide to Visiting Mount San Jacinto State Park

The idea for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was first proposed in the 1930s by Francis F. Crocker, a wealthy businessman and engineer. Crocker was inspired by the rugged beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains and wanted to find a way to bring people up to see the stunning views from the mountain peaks. He envisioned a tramway that would be the largest of its kind, and one that would be an engineering marvel.

Construction on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway began in 1961, and it took more than two years to complete. The tramway was designed by Swiss engineer Eduard Wyss, and it was built at a cost of $8.5 million. The tramway officially opened to the public on September 12, 1963, and it quickly became a popular tourist attraction.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was the first tramway in the world to use a rotating gondola system. The tramway consists of two 80-passenger cars that are suspended from a cable that runs from the valley floor to the top of the mountain. The cars rotate 360 degrees during the 10-minute ride, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Today

Today, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the most popular attractions in Palm Springs, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The tramway is open seven days a week, and visitors can take a ride up to the top of the mountain to enjoy the stunning views, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities.

The Mount San Jacinto State Park, located at the top of the mountain, is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities. Visitors can also enjoy the Mount San Jacinto Wilderness, which covers more than 30,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife.

In conclusion, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Palm Springs. With its unique design and stunning views, it is a testament to human engineering and ingenuity. The tramway provides visitors with an unforgettable experience that will be remembered for years to come.

Posted in Entertainment
April 2, 2023

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: Why it's Crucial Before House Hunting

Buying a house is an exciting time in anyone's life. It's a chance to put down roots, build equity, and have a place to call your own. But before you start browsing listings and daydreaming about what color to paint the walls, there's an important step you should take: getting pre-approved for a mortgage.

So, what exactly does it mean to be pre-approved for a mortgage? Essentially, it means that a lender has looked at your financial situation and has determined how much money they're willing to lend you to buy a house. This process typically involves filling out an application and providing documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.

"But why do I need to go through all that trouble just to start looking for a house?" Well, there are a few very good reasons why getting pre-approved is important.

Why Get Pre-Approved?

First and foremost, getting pre-approved helps you determine your budget. It's easy to get carried away when you start looking at houses and imagining yourself living in them, but the reality is that you need to know how much house you can afford before you start seriously considering any properties. By getting pre-approved, you'll have a clear idea of what your budget is, and you'll be able to focus your search on homes that are within your price range.

Another benefit of getting pre-approved is that it can help you stand out in a competitive market. In today's hot real estate market, there are often multiple buyers interested in the same property. Having a pre-approval letter in hand shows sellers that you're serious about buying and that you have the financial means to do so. This can give you an edge over other buyers who haven't taken this step.

But perhaps the biggest reason to get pre-approved is that it can save you time and stress down the road. Imagine falling in love with a house, making an offer, and then finding out that you can't get approved for the mortgage you need to buy it. Not only would this be a major disappointment, but it would also mean that you've wasted time and resources on a property that was never really an option for you. By getting pre-approved before you start looking at houses, you can avoid this scenario altogether.

The process of getting pre-approved can seem daunting, but it's really not that bad. There are plenty of resources available to help you through the process, and many lenders even offer online pre-approvals that can be completed in just a few minutes. So, if you're thinking about buying a house, do yourself a favor and get pre-approved first. It'll save you time, stress, and maybe even a few headaches down the road.

In conclusion, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is an important step in the home buying process. It helps you determine your budget, stand out in a competitive market, and avoid wasting time and resources on properties that aren't within your financial means. So, if you're considering buying a house, take the time to get pre-approved first. You'll be glad you did.

Posted in Buying A Home
March 31, 2023

The Ultimate Entertainment Destination in Palm Desert: Acrisure Arena - Home of the Palm Springs Firebirds and Host of Top Music Acts and Family Shows

The Acrisure Arena is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue located in Palm Desert, California. The arena is home to the Palm Springs Firebirds, a professional hockey team that plays in the Pacific Division of the American Hockey League (AHL). The arena also hosts a variety of entertainment events, from concerts to family shows, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

The Acrisure Arena is a facility that features all of the amenities necessary to provide a comfortable and exciting experience for sports fans and entertainment enthusiasts. The arena's seating capacity is 10,000, and the design ensures that every seat in the house provides a clear view of the action on the ice or stage. The arena also has luxury suites, club seats, and party decks available for rental, offering a premium experience for those who want to take their visit to the next level.

One of the biggest draws of the Acrisure Arena is the Palm Springs Firebirds, the city's first professional sports team. The Firebirds joined the AHL in 2021 and have quickly become a fan favorite. The team boasts a talented roster of young players who are all vying for a chance to make it to the NHL. Fans can expect fast-paced and exciting hockey action, complete with plenty of hard hits, slick passes, and spectacular goals.

In addition to hockey, the Acrisure Arena hosts a variety of other events throughout the year. The arena has welcomed some of the biggest names in music, including rock legends like Def Leppard and Kiss, as well as pop stars like Ariana Grande and Ed Sheeran. Family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and the Harlem Globetrotters have also made appearances at the arena, making it a destination for people of all ages.

Overall, the Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert is a top-notch facility that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan, a music lover, or just looking for a fun night out, the arena has you covered. With its world-class amenities, talented performers, and passionate fans, the Acrisure Arena is a true gem of the Coachella Valley.

Posted in Entertainment