Santa Monica Foreclosures and Preforeclosures
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Santa Monica is one of the most beautiful areas of the Los Angeles area. It's actually situated between Los Angeles and the bay of the same name, and at just over 8 square miles, it's a pedestrian friendly city that offers easy access to restaurants, shopping, and attractions for both residents and visitors. It's also known as the most educated city in the nation
Santa Monica was originally settled by the Spanish in the 1500's, and got its name from a Franciscan priest in 1769, who said he was inspired by the natural springs to name it after "Saint Monica". After the wars with Mexico, the United States was awarded those lands, and California became a state in 1850. It immediately became a vacation land for people who lived in cold climates, and it's grown from that point on. It was incorporated as a city in 1887.
Santa Monica has always had a history of being the place for the rich and powerful. In the past, the likes of Will Rogers, Greta Garbo, Harold Lloyd, Mae West, Louis B. Mayer, Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford, and William Randolph Hearst lived and mingled with rich visitors in the area. These days, you're just as likely to see residents such as Jamie Lee Curtis, Ted Danson and Mary Steenbergen, Jane Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Tom Selleck dining in restaurants and shopping in many of the stores.
Santa Monica is home to many major landmarks which attract sightseers to the community. There's the Parkhurst Building, which was constructed by a former mayor of the city, Charles Parkhurst, and was designated a historical landmark in 1978. There's the Miramar Hotel, which still exists today as a luxury hotel, which used to also be the home to stars such as Greta Garbo, its first resident after it was built. There's the Miles Playhouse, built in 1929 and still used today to put on theater productions. And finally, the Looff Hippodrome, built in 1916 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, built in a fantasy style with what looks like a merry-go-round on top of the building, and reminds people of what they imagined the Old West would have looked like if every community had a lot of money. And you can't visit Santa Monica without going to Santa Monica Pier, which is loaded with amusement park attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Of course, Santa Monica is really known for its beach, aptly named Santa Monica Beach, which of course access the Pacific Ocean. With an average of 340 sunny days a year and a very temperate climate, it's the perfect getaway for swimming, surfing, fishing and beach volleyball. There's usually an ocean breeze which adds to the comfort, and the beach is kept very clean.
Finally, there's some of the most spectacular houses in the world in Santa Monica. Many of them are older homes that have been refurbished and updated. There's the Niemeyer-Strick home, built in 1964 by Oscar Niemeyer, a Brazilian architect who won the 1988 Pritzker Prize for design, but was originally not allowed to have his name on the permits because he supported communism at the time. There's the Zuni House, built in 1923 in the style of Mayan architecture. And you have the Marion Davies Estate, which was built by William Randolph Hearst right on the ocean front for movie star Marion Davies.
Though Santa Monica is home to the rich and famous, the city also keeps a record of what they call "affordable units", which can be obtained from any redevelopment agencies in the area. Consumers can find rental properties or regular residential properties all over the city, but most of it isn't cheap. You will find multi-million dollar homes in Santa Monica, mainly close to the beach, and the prices will range from upwards of $8 million down to $290,000 for homes in the area. Leasing will average around $2,500 if people wish to go that route.
Santa Monica is both a resident and visitors paradise.
Luis Pezzini
[email protected]
http://www.SunsetStripRealty.com
310-275-2076
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Buying Foreclosures in Santa Monica
By Robert Grazian
Santa Monica is well known as "Beach City" and with a location in California. The average round on temperature is found to be sixty eight degrees Fahrenheit and it has the best quality air in surroundings. The state beach is found up to around two hundred forty five acres where there are provisions made for hotels and the sums up of the number of rooms are nearly about three thousand and eight hundred. There populations of the visitors are found in huge crowds and for their taste there are numerous restaurants being seen. On similar basis these travelers would undoubtedly be interested in shopping and so are they provided with the best options. The main crowd in million are found from southern California visitors and even though visitors are found from all over the world to make their vacation memorable in Santa Monica.
All together, Santa Monica Pier is found here and so is the reason that Santa Monica is stated as its home land. Here you can have awesome time to spend with your loved ones with fishing all day and night, watching the lovely silent and wild waves. You can also be one to participate to have a look of under sea world. You can rock to the world class music played by all magnificent musicians under the twinkling stars near the sea coach. It is also possible for you to participate in horse riding or roller coaster riding. You can be one of the lucky one to enjoy the warm feeling to have your dinner with a view of sea with the melodious sound of waves.
The best place for shopping found here is Third Street Promenade where you can spend your almost whole day. The best thing is to shop on the beaches where in you can find all the accessories and other required things.
There are many of the people found in Santa Monica who really feel to have a property of their own. So, these people are always in search of foreclosure houses in Santa Monica. However, it becomes possible enough to purchase a property on the lower amount as compared to that of market value. All you need proper researches and know how about all the latest updates of the property in listings. You can come to know about the latest listings on internet with constant updates. There you can find the property you are interested in and then you can bid for the same.
Robert Grazian is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
To learn more about buying foreclosures in Santa Monica [http://www.californiaforeclosure.info/buying-foreclosures-in-santa-monica] visit California Foreclosures [http://www.californiaforeclosure.info/] for current articles and discussions.
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Purchasing Foreclosures in Santa Monica
By Robert Grazian
Just as much as purchasing of foreclosed or to be foreclosed properties are available elsewhere, a lot of people could also consider buying foreclosures in Santa Monica. Sometimes when people who engage in mortgage transactions with banks or local financial creditors, there are instances that keep them from fulfilling their end of the bargain, which results to the failure of coming up with money for any due payments related to the mortgage. These costs usually involve putting at stake many valuable properties the loaner has like his or her own house or land property.
Like any other place, buying foreclosures in Santa Monica means that buyers should be fully aware of the reasons why such houses or lots have been foreclosed by the financial establishments involved in the first place. Knowing whether the former owner of the properties foreclosed decided to give up the property that has been mortgaged or if he or she wasn't able to come up with money for to redemption of the assets that have been placed as security interest for the bank or creditor giving the loan, can be valuable details to take note of prior to buying foreclosures in Santa Monica as well as anywhere else.
In general cases, it's usually better one goes through substantial amounts of research on purchasing foreclosures prior to jumping into the industry. This wouldn't be much of a problem, since there is an abundant supply of accessible sources of much needed information from all sorts of media forms from books to the internet. In fact, local banks and creditors themselves are more than willing to assist any prospected clients in buying foreclosures in Santa Monica simply because such purchases are done for their interest and benefit as well. Otherwise, buyers might just end up spending thousands or investing even more on something they would just end up unsatisfied with.
When this happens, the transaction is closed and there's no turning back. Naturally, nobody would want to end up in a totally opposite situation as what was really imagined when the buyer wanted that foreclosure - losing money instead of gaining benefits equal to what his or her money was worth. Buying foreclosures in Santa Monica or anywhere else for that matter should be well planned and discussed with all parties concerned to avoid regrets in the transactions which may otherwise be non negotiable after the deal has been sealed.
Robert Grazian is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
To learn more about buying foreclosures in Santa Monica [http://www.californiaforeclosure.info/buying-foreclosures-in-santa-monica-2] visit California Foreclosure [http://www.californiaforeclosure.info/] for current articles and discussions.
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Here Are Some Things To Think About When Buying A Condo In Santa Monica
By Simon Salloom
Condominiums have made homeownership affordable for many people. This is particularly the case on the West side of Los Angeles, where the prices of single family residences are prohibitive to even the most well heeled professionals. There are however many things to consider when buying a condo in these areas.
Earthquake Insurance:
Approximately half of all condominium and townhouse buildings on the West side have earthquake insurance included in the homeowners dues.
Pros:
This protects the owners from having to come up with funds to pay for repairs, should an earthquake occur. Price of construction per square foot in Santa Monica, Brentwood and other West side neighborhoods can be anywhere from $150-300. This makes a complete rebuild on a 1000sf condo at the very least $150,000 up to $300,000. Often the insurance provides funds for replacement housing should the homeowners need to move out during reconstruction.
Some, not many, buildings were completely torn down and rebuilt after the Northridge Earthquake in 1994. So no matter what the deductible, these buildings were happy to have had earthquake insurance.
Cons:
Earthquake insurance can be very costly. Premiums tend to be significantly higher for buildings that are looking for new coverage as opposed to buildings who signed on for coverage 20 years ago. The deductibles can be upwards of $250 -500,000, much higher than what most buildings in Santa Monica suffered during the Northridge Earthquake in 1994. Personal Assessment Insurance can be had for a maximum of $50,000per condominium. You would be covered in an instance where your 10unit condo building had $500,000 worth of damage.
The federal government often supplies subsidized loans at very low interest rates for disaster victims.Many buildings in Santa Monica had to go through years of court action before their insurance providers would give them the financial assistance that was owed to them
Earthquake Insurance FAQ's:
All of the units in a condo building need to subscribe to the Earthquake Insurance policy. Coverage cannot be given to units on an individual basis.
Pet Policy:
Most condominium buildings have a restriction on pet size. Smaller building and townhouse buildings tend to be more liberal while large buildings are more conservative.
Pet size restrictions tend to be by poundage and number of pet limits. The most common is two dogs or cats under 20lbs each. Other buildings have 30 and 40lb limits. The average Labrador is over 40lbs.
If you have a pet or plan on getting one make sure you read the CC&R's on pet restrictions. The CC&R's are the rules that govern the Homeowners Association.
Pet Policy FAQ's:
If a homeowner breaks the rules with regards to pet size or number the pet will be mandated to leave the building. If the pet does not leave the HOA can place liens on the property and or force court action to have either you or your pet forbidden entry.
Amenities:
Many people enjoy the idea of amenities such as pools, sauna, 24hour guard gated access. For many residents of these buildings these amenities never become truly valuable. There are thousands of residents of local condo buildings who use the building pool about once a year. Additionally, in Santa Monica and Brentwood there are many local gyms that do a better job of motivating you. So, if you are going to buy in a building with amenities, and therefore higher homeowners dues and purchase prices, make sure you are going to take full advantage of them.
I should also mention that if you are looking to live in a luxury building; say an ocean view condominium on Ocean Avenue, none of the above applies. You are going to have amenities whether you like them or not and enjoy using or not using every minute of them.
Reserves:
After the Homeowners Dues are collected and used to pay debits to the different vendors the left over money is put into reserves for the building. Funds from the reserves can be used in case the building needs a new roof or upgrades to the hallways and common areas.
Difference between a Condo and a Co-op:
In a condominium, the owner owns the space inside the walls individually and the common areas collectively as part of a group. It is a pure form of homeownership, with the same rights and responsibilities of a single family home. A co-op is owned by a cooperative that issues shares to the building and the right to occupy a given unit. As the owner, you own shares in the building not the space inside the walls. Your right to occupy a particular section of the building is usually issued via a lease term that renews every fifty years or so. About 95% of the multi-unit inventory in Los Angeles (Brentwood) and Santa Monica is condos. In New York City the majority of units are co-ops. The difference between buying a condo or a co-op in Santa Monica and Los Angeles is that buyers of co-ops tend to have less financing options available to them. You also have to be "approved" by the board. Here on the West side the boards are pretty liberal in contrast to the stories you might have heard about New York City co-op boards.
Difference between a Townhouse and a Condo:
In Santa Monica and the other neighborhoods of the West side of Los Angeles, people refer to single story residences as condos and double or triple story residences as townhouses. These are both condominiums in the legal sense of the term.
All statistics taken from the Multiple Listing Service of the local, Beverly Hills Greater Los Angeles Association of Realtors.
Simon Salloom is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker who specializes in Santa Monica Real Estate.Click here to learn more about Santa Monica Real Estate
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Top 10 Things to Do in Santa Monica California
By Kelly Lussan
The City of Santa Monica has a storied past, a who's who and a what's happening present and a bright future. The beachside city in Los Angeles is home to movie stars, oceanfront estates, theme parks, and vast areas of natural beauty. Santa Monica is quickly become the go-to tourist destination on the southern coast of America. Here's a quick guide of the what-to-do if you find yourself lucky enough to be visiting this sparkling city anytime soon.
1) Santa Monica Beach. First and foremost, let's talk about that beautiful stretch of white sandy beach that beckons just off the bluff of Ocean Boulevard. Santa Monica Beach. Known for years as the go to destination when Hollywood gets too hot, Santa Monica Beach boasts not only miles of gorgeous sand and tame waves, but also a smooth bike path that travels tens of miles along the coast. This location alone will give you days of to-do, but don't relax too much in the sun, there's more to Santa Monica than this famous beach.
2) Muscle Beach/Venice. Just a short bike ride or spirited walk down the bike path to the south, you'll discover the world renown Muscle Beach and Venice Boardwalk. All types of crazies gesture for your money here: you'll find fun houses, culture, art, trinkets, great food and bars and unique shopping. You'll also see Muscle Beach, where Arnold used to pose and posture long before he became the terminator. Today, you'll find a whole new generation of Bavarian body builders continuing the tradition. If you have time, reserve a paddle tennis court, strap on your sneakers and hit a few balls. This unique to California sport is like a miniature game of tennis; although smaller it more than makes up for its size in terms of pure fun and adrenaline.
3) The Pier. Located at the end of historic Route 66, the Santa Monica Pier first came into prominence way back in the late 1800's. Named the fun pier back then, the fun part has never come out of its being. A huge Ferris wheel (lit by economically friendly solar panels at night) anchors the rear of the pier while a fun rollercoaster and merry go 'round sit amid carnival games and kid rides at the front. There are plenty of restaurants and fine dining as well as circus performers, fishing, and musical acts and shows at night to entertain you. All of this taking place 35 feet above the calm Pacific water and giving you a view back towards the sprawling city of Angels. The name of the attractions at the pier is Pacific Park.
4) Third Street Promenade. Behind Ocean Boulevard, running parallel to the stretch of beach, lays the Third Street Promenade. After a fresh coat of paint or two back in 1992, the Third Street Promenade has quickly become the go to destination for tourists and locals alike to catch a movie (there are 3 different theaters), catch a bite to eat (there are over 200 restaurants to choose from) or find that perfect pair of pants or gift. There is almost every conceivable brand name store among the 2 mile stretch of shops. And there are no vehicles (or skateboards for that matter) allowed on Third Street; it is a true pedestrian destination. A rarity in LA.
5) Santa Monica Place. Anchoring the southern end of the Third Street Promenade sits the newly renovated (and now ceiling-less) Santa Monica Place. For years, the Santa Monica Place was just another huge mall but after a spirited renovation last summer, the mall went topless and higher end establishments moved in. Now, the mall is a true extension of the Promenade and only adds to the shopping, restaurants and fun you can have in the area.
6) Santa Monica Aquarium. Located just under the Santa Monica Pier, the aquarium is a little known (or publicized) place that is great for children and adults alike.
7) Biking. Santa Monica is quickly becoming a very bike friendly city. There are literally miles of bike paths in and around the city. There are also plenty of bike rental shops around so seeing the city and getting a bit of exercise end up going hand in hand.
8) Angel's Attic: This is a hidden gem, located on Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica. The place is literally filled with hundreds of antique dolls and treasures and serves high tea. A great spot to bring little ones or whittle away a few minutes and catch your breath.
9) Santa Monica Museum of Flying. When the city started out, it was in big part not only to the seaside location but also to the small landing strip Douglas built there as a place to build small planes for the war. Hundreds of the houses in and around the city were first built to hold airline workers and their families. Now, there is a great Museum of Flying located at the Santa Monica airport which displays vintage aircraft and educates you on not only the history of flying, but the history of Santa Monica as well.
10) Palisades Park. Palisades Park is a sprawling palm tree-splattered park that sits atop the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Pier and Santa Monica Beach beyond. This 25 acre park is a great place for bikers, hikers, walkers and people watching.
There are plenty of natural and manmade things to see and do while in the tourist friendly city of Santa Monica. Hopefully this short guide serves as a jumping off point for your vacation.
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Look at the Best Hotels in Santa Monica, California, USA
By David Urmannand Nayan Choure
Santa Monica, a well known city of California, U. S. A located in western Los Angeles County. This has an agreeable climate which has made it world renowned resort. Today,It has got excellent boom in both job growth and tourism.
City is considered one of the best vacation spots with 310 days of sunshine. There are many tourist attractions in this beautiful city of California including Pier, Hippodrome, Majestic Theater, Civic Auditorium, Museum of Art, Palisades Park Film Festival etc.
Though this is mainly a tourist destination, thousands of visitors visit this city for business purposes too. There are many normal and chain hotels ranging from cheap to luxury in the city.
Luxury Hotels
Lodging into one of the luxury hotels is the best way to enrich a tour. Those, who wish to spend lavishly on their vacation mostly, prefer luxury accommodation. If you are one of them and looking for luxury hotels in City, then just give up all worries because there are many full service star hotels in this city to choose from such as Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Loews Beach Hotel, Huntley Santa Monica, the Georgian, Doubletree Guest Suites, the Viceroy and Sheraton Delfina etc.
The Fairmont
This is only super luxury hotel of the city located at 101 Wilshire Blvd in the Beach Cities. This luxury hotel is famous for offering world class services and royal treatment to its guests. Whether you are on vacation here or for some business meeting, the Fairmont would be the perfect lodging option for you. The finest features of the Fairmont include spa tub, restaurant and beach-club shuttle etc.
Cheap Hotels
Always lodge into one of the cheap hotels for reducing your tour expenditures, does not matter whether you are going for vacation or for some business meeting.
While on tour, you will find plenty of cheap lodging options, but some the finest ones include - Best Western Gateway, Travelodge Pico Blvd, Holiday Inn at the Pier, Santa Monica Motel, Pacific Sands Motel, Comfort Inn and Days Inn etc.
Days Inn
Days Inn is one of the cheapest places for lodging in the city, offering excellent services with comfort of luxury hotel at the most affordable price which suits all budgets. This 2 star property is conveniently located near 3rd Street Promenade. This is the best place for both business travelers and vacationers.
Besides, this city offers accommodation in its every corner, whether it is downtown or near airport.
Downtown Hotels
Downtown is full of exclusive retail stores, first-rate entertainment venues, casual and fine dining establishments and many major attractions. Hence, every visitor to Santa Monica wishes to stay here. If you are also looking for downtown accommodation while here then need not trouble much. There are many lodging options ranging from pet friendly hotels to spa, beachfront and casino hotels.
Find hotels by checking online for detailed information. Choose lodgings as per your budget. Search discount hotel-deals for economy-accommodations. Many affordable motels and hotels are spread all over. Santa Monica Motel is just seven blocks from Santa Monica Beach. Pacific Sands Motel is the perfect economy motel in the heart of Santa Monica's entertainment district. Located directly across the street from Santa Monica Pier and beach is Travelodge Santa Monica for budget tourists.
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