Local California Farmers' Markets in Los Angeles

Local Farmers' markets are found in abundance in California, especially here in Los Angeles. We are fortunate to have over 120 Farmers' markets in Los Angeles County, all stocked with fresh, organic, & natural foods and produce from hyper-local farmers. Most California & Los Angeles area Farmers' markets are certified and serve the community by providing fresh, affordable produce from local area farmers that sell directly to the public. Along with a rainbow of produce, you'll find fresh flowers, hand-crafted goods, ready made foods, and lively entertainment at local farmers' markets.

It's almost impossible not to eventually trip over a Farmers' Market in Los Angeles since there are numerous fresh fare markets open daily throughout the city. In case you're thinking that a trip to Whole Foods might just be easier, think twice. Farmers' markets in Los Angeles do nothing but good by serving the:

Consumer

• They provide direct contact and feedback between customers and producers, so you can be sure how your vegetables are grown and meat produced.
• They help to improve diet and nutrition by providing access to fresh food.
• They play an important role in educating the consumer as to the production and origin of their food.
• They can be a source of information and inspiration on how to cook and prepare fresh ingredients.

Environment

• They help reduce food miles, thus vehicle pollution, noise, and fossil fuel use.
• They help to reduce packaging.
• They encourage more environmental production practices, such as organic or pesticide free.
• They encourage farm diversification and hence bio-diversity.

Community & Local Economy

•  They help bring life into towns and cities aiding regeneration.
• They encourage social interaction particularly between rural and urban communities.
• They stimulate local economic development by increasing employment, encouraging consumers to support local business, and thus keeping the money within the local community.
• They attract business to retailers in the vicinity.

(Source: www.farmersmarkets.net)

If these aren't reasons enough to hit your neighborhood's local farmers' market, don't forget how much fun you risk having on your next visit! I recently wandered through the Santa Monica Farmers' market, bought a few peaches to eat, and  found a few sights and sounds to feed my soul. A perfect day at the Farmers' market...

By the way, I sell real estate throughout Urban L.A., so please visit me at UrbanPulseProperties.com for a free list of homes for sale.

Related Articles

• Mobile Farmers' Markets Bring Produce To The People (huffingtonpost.com)
• Farmer's Markets: Pricey or Budget-Friendly? (mint.com)

The Downtown L.A. Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of a wide genre of art venues in Downtown Los Angeles. From commercial art galleries to museums, and non-profit arts exhibitions, there's a little bit of something for everyone. The Downtown L.A. Art Walk takes place on the 2nd Thursday of every month.
The Downtown Art Walk has been going strong since its inception in September 2004,  with thousands of people attending every month. Participants in the Downtown L.A. Art Walk include the following list of nearly 50 art venues:


The Downtown L.A. Art Walk takes place in the central downtown area, within the walkable districts between the Grand Avenue / Disney Hall / MOCA, Little Tokyo, the Financial District, and centered around Gallery Row on Main and Spring Streets in the Historic Core. You'll find that the majority of galleries are open until about 9 p.m., with a few closing either earlier or later. It's best to call the galleries directly for more specific information.

If you want to avoid traffic and parking hassles, your best bet is to take advantage of the Metro system since the Downtown L.A. Art Walk is easily accessible via the Metro Red, Gold, and Blue line trains, and many run until at least midnight. The closest Metro stop is Pershing Square but  paid parking is also plentiful in the area, in case public transit isn't your thing.  Parking meters are available until 4PM, and free after 6 or 7 PM on most streets. Once you're downtown, local LA City DASH buses are an easy way to get around for only 25¢ until 6PM. After the Downtown L.A. Art Walk, you'll find an abundance of bars and lounges that wil be open into the wee hours with entertainment, food, and drink. Be safe, have fun, and enjoy the walk!

By the way, I sell real estate throughout urban L.A.

Please contact me if you would like more information about the real estate market in Urban L.A., or the Downtown L.A. Condo market. For a free list of homes for sale, please visit UrbanPulseProperties.com.

When Will Los Angeles Area Homes Regain Their Value?

You're probably beginning to wonder: When will Los Angeles area homes regain their value? If you own a home in L.A., I regret to tell you that you’ll need to wait another 15 years before your home's value will return to pre-recession levels. This, according to the reputable Fiserv Case-Schiller Index, that also reports that we've yet to see the worst of it, as the U.S. will continue to experience an overall downward decent in home values. The Index forecasts a further 7% decline in home prices through the end of the year, with the beginnings of a sluggish economic recovery no where in sight until the beginning of 2011.
The index shows volatility in the U.S. real estate market and home prices like none experienced in recent or distant history. On a somewhat positive note, other states, like Michigan, Ohio, and Nevada can expect a quicker rebound of somewhere around 10 years to see home prices climb back to their previous values. But while you're waiting for 2025 to see Los Angeles area homes regain their value, rest assured that the June Fiserv Case-Schiller Index report suggests that there is 'broad evidence' that U.S. housing markets are stabilizing.
That report from the fourth quarter of 2009 positively suggests that U.S. home prices were rising in 155 out of 384 metro areas, even in hard-hit states like California. But that good news didn't gain much momentum since the index numbers also showed that the average U.S. home price slid 2.5% from the same period in 2008.
The index notes high unemployment rates and an over abundance of distressed and foreclosed properties as key reasons for such lackluster performance, especially in areas like Los Angeles and the rest of California.
Nevertheless, American optimism that an overdue economic recovery has finally arrived seems to be the prevailing force as home prices tick upward. Devastating drops in home prices over the last several years have also quite simply made the cost of home ownership more affordable again, for both first-time home buyers and investors. Now, we must work towards job growth and economic recovery while and striving to be patient as Los Angeles area homes regain their value.
For a more detailed perspective on the Los Angeles area real estate market or a list of homes for sale, please visit UrbanPulseProperties.

Sales of Downtown L.A. Condos for July 2010

Sales of Downtown L.A. condos increased, by nineteen percent (19%), in July, 2010, and in comparison to the same month last year. Downtown L.A. condos sales have been on the rise since hitting a low point for the year in February. Despite a steady increase in sales over the last several months, only twenty-five (25) Downtown L.A. condos were sold in July of 2010, while the Combined L.A./Westside MLS reflects the sale of twenty-one (21) Downtown L.A. condos for July 2009.

Condos Sold in Downtown L.A. for July 2010:

Supply continues to outpace demand, although there was a 15% decrease in Downtown L.A. condos for sale in July 2010, as compared with the same month last year. There were two-hundred and sixty-five (265) Downtown L.A. condos listed for sale in July of 2010.

Sales prices for Downtown L.A. condos actually increased by seventeen percent (17%) in July of 2010 and compared to the same period last year. This is another positive indicator that the Downtown L.A. real estate market may be gaining momentum. The median ‘sold’ price for Downtown L.A. condos in July, 2010 was three-hundred nienty-one thousand dollars ($391,000) as compared to an average sold price of three-hundred thirty-five thousand dollars ($335,000) just a year ago.

Median Sold Price of Downtown L.A. Condos for July 2010:

The average 'days on market' for Downtown L.A. condos in July 2010 has increased by a nominal 3%, or two additional days on the market from this time last year. This is a postive sign that shows tolerance for price increases and perceived value, since homes are continuing to sell at virtually the same rate as from July of last year when prices were substantially lower. Downtown L.A. condos are being priced correctly for present market conditions and those in the market to buy now are acting swiftly.

Though listing prices of Downtown L.A. condos have increased by about two percent (2%) from July 2009 to July 2010, the actual sales prices of Downtown L.A. condos has risen significantly by seventeen percent (17%), which shows a better comprehension by home sellers of true value of their downtown L.A. condos, as supported by the current purchase prices of these same condos in the downtown L.A. market.

Please contact me if you would like more information about the real estate market in Urban L.A., or the Downtown L.A. Condo market.

For a free list of homes for sale, please visit UrbanPulseProperties.com.

Rent or Buy in L.A.? A New Paradigm for the "American Dream."

Rent or buy in L.A.?? You must be wondering by now. But how do you make an informed decision on this roller coaster ride of an economy, with declining home prices that seem to stall for a moment, bringing false hope for a turn in an upward direction, only to inch further into the abyss of negative value.

As a Realtor in Los Angeles who makes a living at selling homes, I have been having a 'coming to Jesus' with myself lately about what all of this trauma we've been through in the last few years means for our culture in the near and distant future, and how this American neo-Depression has altered and shifted our perception of what is valued and desirable. To that point, the New York Times recently published an article warning that we ought not continue to look at housing as a means to building wealth. What?! The very notion that real estate and attaining the dream of homeownership is no longer a cornerstone of building a firm foundation for you and your family is earth shattering. After World War II, high demand, inflation, a long and steady decline in interest rates, and unrealistic appreciation in home values made the goal of owning real estate almost a 'no brainer' for most of us. Our own perceptions of 'making it,' in fact, included home ownership as a considerable milestone. Now, it seems, the paradigm may be shifting...rent or buy?

I recently became engaged in a dialogue on Zillow.com about the rent vs. buy debate with another agent. I vehemently defended the fact that, depending on a buyer's short and long term goals and with loan rates at historic lows, now is the time to at least consider a home purchase:

'Really understanding the market you're looking to buy in is important so you can better understand the cyclical nature of buying and selling patterns in that market against the larger picture of the state of the nation's economic recovery. Real estate is always a risk, but is cyclical in nature, and over the long haul exhibits consistent trends. By studying these trends, knowing the market you're considering purchasing in, and really coming to terms with what your short and long term goals are for your life, one can make a qualified and well informed decision about making a home purchase in today's climate.'

The response I received from one realtor on the site didn't change my opinion entirely, but he did raise some interesting and valid points that, along with other indicators, have fueled in me further deductive investigation on the rent or buy issue:

For instance, statistics show that inventory is increasing nationally. Surplus inventory means falling prices. if reduced interest rates make buying homes cheaper, but few homes are being purchased, then what happens to the buyer who does decide to purchase today? As interest rates increase, the offsetting effect is that home values wlll continue to drop, as this is the only way that affordability can remain the same. Since unemployment rates are at a historical high, it is unlikely that the affordability factor will dissipate any time soon.

So, a buyer who purchases a home at today's rates, would see the home remain underwater for many years if rates do, in fact, rise. If they have to sell, get divorced, become ill, lose a job, etc., the homeowner could find themselves in a very unfavorable financial position. That's why, in today's market, it makes the most sense to buy a home where the mortgage is significantly less than the projected rent, so that renting the home for the next decade or so becomes a viable 'plan B.'

Playing devil's advocate to my own argument in the 'rent or buy' debate, I still believe that the goal of home ownership for many people is an emotionally based decision as much as a financial one, and related to the pursuit of stability, the 'American dream' if you will, and the desire to 'plant roots.' I am, however, questioning whether this particular paradigm will be washed away and replaced by a new one, as our culture has the gradual realization that nothing, really, is permanent. If this is the case, and we collectively begin to embrace impermanence, transitory living, and flexible non-committment, how will this also change our understanding of the "American Dream," as it relates to home ownership and otherwise? is now the time to rent or buy in L.A.? What about other areas of the country and are certain homes a better value proposition than others in a global market of changing priorities? The times, they are a-changin'....

By the way, I sell real estate throughout Urban L.A., so please visit me at UrbanPulseProperties.com for a free list of homes for sale.

Space Saving Furniture Ideas for Urban Living in Los Angeles

Space saving furniture ideas are in high demand these days! As the real estate market changes here in Los Angeles and beyond, the trends of urban living are changing too. Now, people are finding ways to maximize the spending power of their dollars, adopting a 'less is more' attitude, and looking for ways to live simply. In high density areas, like Los Angeles, where rents are high and space is scarce, creative space saving ideas are a requirement for making the best out of what you've got to work with. Space saving furniture can make all the difference to your at-home living experience when you are limited to a single area of your home that must serve multiple functions. Resource Furniture is a company that specializes in sleek, custom designed, space-saving furniture that melds practicality and efficiency with sleek form and modern aesthetic. True urbanites will be blown away by the clever engineering and attention to detail of these space saving furniture ideas!

By the way, I sell real estate throughout Urban L.A., so please visit me at UrbanPulseProperties.com for a free list of homes for sale.

Echo Park Live/Work Lofts are New on the Scene! Visit Echo 1030 Lofts

ECHO 1030 LOFTS:

Welcome to the Best of Urban Living in the Heart of Echo Park!

• New Construction, Eco-friendly Live/Work Lofts
• Moments from Hollywood and Downtown L.A.
• Convenient Access to 5, 405, 101, and 110 Freeways
• Secure Building with 24-hour Surveillance and Secure Parking
• Rooftop Lounge with Fire Pit, BBQ, and Breathtaking Views
• Lush Landscaping
  
• Pets Welcome!
• Storage Available

ECHO 1030 Live/Work Lofts Feature:

• Modern, Interpretive Floor Plans
• 18-foot Vaulted Ceilings
  
• Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
  
• Sleek & Modern Finishes
• Stainless Steel Appliances & Fixtures
• Microwave/Dishwasher/Garbage Disposal
  
• In-Unit Washer/Dryer
• Italian Hardwood & Polished Concrete Flooring
• Central Air & Heating
• Recessed Lighting & Designer Fixtures
• Pre-Wired for Cable, Internet, and Telephone
  
• Private Balconies with Wall-to-Wall Sliding Doors
  
• Steel Staircase Hand Railings
• Solar Reflective Windows
  

Echo 1030 Lofts offer the finest in urban living, featuring 20 uniquely designed Live/Work loft spaces in the heart of Echo Park. Each Live/Work Loft features an open floor plan suited to creative office use and interpretive living.

Centrally located in the heart of Echo Park, Echo 1030 grants easy access to the surrounding areas of Downtown L.A., Silverlake, Hollywood, and major freeways.

Airy, naturally lit mezzanine lofts with panoramic city views offer an unparalleled value not to be found anywhere else in Los Angeles!

Echo 1030 lofts is a newly constructed building built to LEED Platinum standards, the highest of sustainable development principles.

Please contact me if you would like more information about the new Live/Work Lofts in Echo Park, the real estate market in Urban L.A., or the Silverlake/Echo Park home market.

For a free list of homes for sale, please visit UrbanPulseProperties.com.