Vista Sotheby’s International Realty

South Bay Golf Courses

7/15/2021

South Bay Golf Courses

Do you like golf?? Well a game of golf is a great way to spend a weekend morning – or a weekday morning for that matter - if you have a flexible schedule. Hi, I'm Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, brokered by Vista Sotheby's International Realty right here in the South Bay.

We’re lucky enough to have many courses to choose from in our area. For the more casual golfer, Sea Aire Golf Course in Torrance may be just right. This nine-hole course over five hundred and ten yards with a par of twenty seven is a great place to bring your young golfer.

Another option is Los Verdes Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes. This course offers 18 holes over six thousand six hundred and seventeen yards with a par of 71. The upside of this course is the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The downside is the slow play. Once the crowds arrive you can expect six-hour rounds! Both of these courses are municipal, so you can expect relatively lower fees.

How about Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes? This course has 18 holes over seven thousand three hundred and fifty yards with a par of 72. Set atop the Palos Verdes Peninsula overlooking the picturesque Catalina Island, this award-winning golf course features spectacular views of the majestic Pacific Ocean. You’ll also find great dining options here from the casual Vista Grill to the upscale Café Pacific.

More choices? How about the Links at Terranea, also in Rancho Palos Verdes? This 9-hole course over one thousand two hundred and thirty nine yards with a par of 27 is also an oceanfront golf course, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Golfers at The Links walk and take in the magnificent coastal setting, just as the game was intended to be enjoyed. Both of these courses are public, which tend to be more expensive than municipal, but sometimes you can find deals online.

If those aren’t enough options for you, we also have beautiful private courses including Rolling Hills Country Club, in Rolling Hills Estates and Palos Verdes Golf Club in Palos Verdes Estates. The Rolling Hills championship golf course was designed by world-renowned golf architect David McLay Kidd, and has 18 holes over six thousand one hundred and twelve yards with a par of 72. Palos Verdes Golf Club, is an eighteen-hole course over six thousand one hundred and sixteen yards with a par of 71. Memberships are available to those living both inside and outside Palos Verdes Estates and includes 18 holes of championship golf, a driving range and short game area, a clubhouse, casual and fine dining, and more.

No matter what you’re looking for in your golf game, you’re sure to find it in the South Bay. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out. I’m your South Bay expert, and I’m always here to help. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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Staging

7/12/2021

Staging

There are tons of different strategies that can help with the buying and selling process of a home, and staging is one that can make quite a dramatic difference. One-quarter of buyers' agents told the National Association of Realtors that staging increased the offer price by one to five percent compared to homes that weren't staged. Among sellers' agents, twenty-two percent say the same and seventeen percent say it actually increased the offer price by six to ten percent.

Proponents say that staging a home can increase a home's selling price and the likelihood that it will sell quickly as it helps prospective buyers better imagine how they can use the livable space. Eighty-two percent of buyers’ agents said staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home.

According to HomeAdvisor it costs on average, around $631 - $2,302 dollars to stage a home. Of course this is just an average figure and staging costs vary depending on the size of the home, the number of rooms staged, and some other factors. I offer my clients a free home staging consultation, so reach out with any questions. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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HOA vs Non-HOA

7/7/2021

When you consider purchasing a home within an HOA for the first time, there are many questions you may have. The most commonly asked question is, what are the benefits of living in an HOA? Hi I'm Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate brokered by Vista Sotheby's International Realty right here in the South Bay. Here are the top 10 benefits of having your home within a Home Owners Association.

1: They help maintain property values: Since residents are held accountable to deed restrictions, homes and common areas are consistently taken care of and well-maintained. Having a well-kept home in a well-kept neighborhood is what makes living in an HOA desirable to a lot of home buyers.

2: Financial Stability - A well-managed HOA has a reserve fund in place to deal with future common area repairs and capital improvements, thereby reducing the likelihood of needing a special assessment, although some special assessments for large improvements may occur.

3: Community Connection through Volunteer Work - Opportunities to be of service to your community by volunteering to serve on the Board of Directors is not only a great way to make new friends, but it offers individual members of the association a deeper connection to the community.

4: Added Layer of Support - When dealing with neighborhood property issues, HOAs often partner with municipal code compliance departments to ensure adherence to the rules.

5: Rules and Regulations Deter Nuisance Activity - Each resident who owns a home in the community is held to the same set of standards for the upkeep of their home's exterior, as well as the adherence to noise policies, parking restrictions, short-term rental guidelines, and more.

6: Increased Community Pride - Community activities and events help bring neighbors together, which increases the pride of ownership.

7: Well-Maintained Common Areas and Amenities - HOAs typically do an outstanding job maintaining their common areas and amenities. This includes manicured common area lawns, freshly painted walls, lighting that works and clean play areas. This makes for an enjoyable community for all members.

8: Access to Amenities - Many communities feature sports courts, swimming pools, barbecue pits, and community centers that are available for resident use. Depending on the community you choose to buy a home in, there is likely an amenity or two to fit you and your family's lifestyle.

9: Increased Community Engagement - Community gatherings and activities such as Movie in the Park or holiday-themed festivals bring neighbors closer together. Regardless of the community's size, there is a sense of camaraderie and joy among neighbors at any community event.

10: Architectural Controls - Residents are required to submit for approval any modification projects to the exterior of their home to ensure consistency and continuity with original community design standards.

I’m always available to answer any specific questions you have. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate putting your family first!

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South Bay Farmers' Markets

7/3/2021

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in the South Bay and one of my favorite things are our local Farmers Markets. A stroll through one is always a great way to spend a weekend morning.

Hi, I’m Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate brokered by Vista Sotheby’s International Realty right here in the South Bay. If you love visiting local farmer’s markets too, there are plenty to choose from, and you don’t even have to wait for the weekend.

The Manhattan Beach Certified Farmers’ Market takes place every Tuesday from 11am to 3pm. One of my favorite vendors to visit is Daisy’s Pupusas. If you’re looking for a delicious lunch, be sure to give Daisy’s a try. We also have the Torrance Certified Farmers’ Market which takes place two days a week – Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm. The Torrance Farmers’ Market has a great selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers, fish and plenty of prepared foods too! The Redondo Beach Certified Farmers’ Market, at Veteran’s Park, takes place Thursday’s from 8am to 1pm. Make sure you try Nonna’s Pantry. The selection of hand-made Italian pastries, cookies and breads are scrumptious! On Sundays we have both the Riviera Village Certified Farmers Market, from 9am to 2pm, and the Palos Verdes Farmers’ Market from 8am to 1pm. One of my must have items at the Riviera Farmers' Market is the Bonjour!: French Kefir yogurt. My favorite flavors are the fig and the mango, but get there early, because they are likely to sell out! At the Palos Verdes farmers market, my must-have item is the Spoon Junkie Nut Butter. My absolute favorite is the Figzilla! It is pricey, but definitely a yummy and healthy treat! You'll find a full list of markets here: https://bit.ly/SBFarmersMarkets

I love this community and love sharing ideas! Tell me your favorite things to do in the South Bay. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

Summer Fun - South Bay Parks

7/1/2021

Summer Fun - South Bay Parks

Summer is right around the corner. Since travel still might not be a part of your plans this summer … I wanted to share a few family-friendly things you can do around Redondo Beach and the greater South Bay.

Hi, I’m Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, brokered by Vista Sotheby’s International Realty. Luckily for us, there is no shortage of wonderful parks in our community. Wilderness Park in Redondo Beach is an urban wilderness campground and nature study area. As you and the kids explore, you’ll see a variety of trees and plants, as well as birds, lizards, turtles, and more. Families can also make a reservation to camp in this scenic park. Veterans Park in Redondo Beach is a 6.3 acre park with ocean views. You’ll find a children’s play structure, lots of grass and trees, and a memorial to Redondo Beach’s veterans. Be sure to bring a kite — families speak of great kite-flying conditions here. In addition, each Thursday, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, Veterans Park hosts the Redondo Beach Certified Farmers’ Market. You’ll find a large selection of fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, baked goods, prepared foods, fish, and more.

In Torrance, you’ll find lots to do at Wilson Park. Facilities include a fitness course, tennis courts, softball diamonds, batting cages, splash pad, picnic areas, sand volleyball courts, children’s play equipment, and much more. And don’t forget that Wilson Park is also home to the Southern California Live Steamers. Free public run days are offered on the 1st Sunday and 3rd Saturday of each month. Kids will love going for a ride on these mini-trains. Another Torrance favorite is Rocketship Park. Take the kids to this park, and they’ll feel like astronauts. You’ll find swings, slides, and playground equipment as well as rocket-shaped climbing structures. And while you won’t find public restrooms here, you will find picnic areas and great views of the city.

In Hermosa, you’ll find the popular Valley Park with basketball courts, a fire pit, a large grassy field, and a children’s playground. Special seasonal events are held in this park as well, including “Movie in the Park” and “Shakespeare by the Sea.” In Manhattan Beach, one of many great parks is Polliwog Park. At this 18-acre park, you’ll find plenty to keep the kids busy. The large pond, complete with ducks and geese, borders a natural wildlife refuge, home to migratory birds. There’s also an amphitheater which is often used for concerts and special events. The children’s play area includes a play structure resembling a lighthouse. There are separate areas for younger children, as well. You’ll also find picnic areas, restrooms, and an exercise course here.

These are just a few suggestions. Tune in regularly for updates on fun things for you and your family to do this summer. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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Redondo Beach Schools

6/28/2021

Redondo Beach Schools

What are the school scores in our local Redondo Beach Community? It's a question I get asked often. I understand. When choosing my own home, finding a great community with great schools was a critical factor. That’s part of the reason why I chose Redondo Beach - for the access to highly rated schools. No matter if your kids are in elementary, middle, or high school, and no matter if you’re looking for public or private. you’ll find everything here.

The two high schools that serve Redondo Beach, Redondo Union and South High get school scores of 8 and 9. The three middle schools that serve Redondo Beach – Adams, Parras, and Richardson, all get school scores of 8. And, the elementary schools are also excellent. Of the nine schools that serve Redondo Beach zip codes, 3 score a nine, 5 score an eight, and only one scores a seven. My own kids attended the awesome Riviera Elementary, and we couldn’t have loved it more. The teaching was top-notch and the sense of community, the friendships made – both us and the kids – were incredible.

The quality of the school system is definitely something to consider when purchasing a home. You want to look at what the school scores are in the area that you’re buying. The test score rating that Greatschools.org uses, measures schools in a number of areas including academics, equity, and environment to produce a 1-10 rating for each school. A study by the Brookings Institution found that housing costs tend to be higher in areas where high-scoring schools are located. The study, which looked at the 100 largest metro areas in the country, found an average difference of $205,000 in home prices between houses near high-performing and low-performing schools. A strong school system can impact what you pay for your home, but remember, when it’s time to sell, it can also affect how much you will get for your home.

I care about our community. I’m your Redondo Beach expert so if you have any questions about the area, give me a call! I’d love to help. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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June Market Update

6/22/2021

June Market Update

Are housing prices going to keep going up? What are experts saying about the forecast for the second quarter of the year?

Forecasts from Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac the Mortgage Bankers Association and other experts all project an average of six point eight percent appreciation this year and they expect that to continue on through 2022. Forecasters are also projecting that we are going to sell more homes this year than we sold last year. Last year according to them we sold six point seven Million homes and this year we are projected to sell seven point five million homes. Trying to decide what to do is scary after what happened in 2008 with the housing crash. Should you sell now and capitalize on these high home prices? Should you buy right now with bidding wars and prices being driven up so high? Obviously, I can’t answer those questions for you, but I do believe providing information and projections from the experts in the field may offer some clarity and confidence when you are deciding what decision is right for you.

I’m always here to help, so give me a call and we can talk it out. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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Why You Should Sell This Spring!

6/16/2021

Why You Should Sell This Spring

The second reason why you should sell your home this Spring is because you have a lot of leverage in today’s market. Now, I’ve heard a few sellers say that they are worried about becoming homeless. Don’t worry – there are strategies and solutions for that as well.

Hi, I’m Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, brokered by Vista Sotheby’s International Realty here in the South Bay. Have you ever heard the saying, he who has more leverage wins? Well, I’ve never seen a time where sellers had more leverage than they do right now. You’ve got the upper hand in a big way which means you can get a higher price for your home, AND have the freedom to counter and choose the terms that suit your needs to make the selling process more enjoyable and less stressful!!

Bottom line - if you’ve been on the fence, there has never been a better time because you hold all the cards so to speak. If you’d like more information on the strategies I use to put you in control, and how I dominate the internet utilizing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy to help maximize your value and exposure even more to ensure we also maximize what you’ll walk away with, be sure to reach out. I am your Redondo Beach Community Market Leader. I can’t wait to hear from you. Be on the lookout for more videos or go to my YouTube Channel to see the 4 other reasons why this spring is an amazing time to sell. Seize the opportunity while the opportunity is still available. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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Free Expert Seller Consultation

4/26/2021

Free Expert Seller Consultation

If you're thinking about selling your home, or you're just looking for information, be sure to reach out to me.

I'll follow up with a free home seller consultation. During that time, you'll discover what you can expect to sell for in today's market, how you would stack up against other homes currently on the market, if doing any repairs or slight modifications could help you net and walk away with more money, or if it makes sense to sell as is. \

Listen, I get it. Selling can be scary. There's a lot to think about. I know. I've sold plenty of homes myself. I want you to know that when you arm yourself with knowledge, and have a trusted advisor to guide you along the way and provide the best options for you, it doesn't have to be scary. The perfect way to start is information gathering. I'm here to answer any questions you have and provide you with all the information you need. Reach out to me to book a free call. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first!

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Maximize Your Investment

4/20/2021

Maximize Your Investment

Thinking about Selling your home? Hey, even in this crazy seller's market, it's important to take the right steps to ensure you maximize your return on your biggest investment. T

I make ti a priority to be on the cutting edge of innovation, technology, and market trends, so that I can provide my clients with the absolute best service. Here is one really important thing you need to know to ensure you maximize the return on your investment and get the most favorable terms and timeline when selling.

The biggest thing - the most important thing - is exposure. We want to make sure that we expose your home to the masses through digital marketing. I get tens of thousands of views on properties I advertise. Just imagine how that kind of exposure can work in your favor when you're selling. I accomplish that kind of exposure by using a detailed, digital marketing strategy that has taken an enormous amount of time, effort, and education to perfect.

I have paid thousands of dollars to online digital marketing experts to learn how to properly market and expose the homes I sell, and I continue to modify, adjust, and adapt as platforms change so that I can optimize the exposure I provide.

This is a significant point of differentiation between me and the majority of agents. You see, most agents just do things like post on their business page and personal page. But that's not enough because the way these platforms work is that they only show content to people who are already interacting with you. Meaning, in most cases, the only people who are seeing their content is their family and friends.

I expose my listings to the masses. I do this by paying for advertising and targeting people online through Facebook and Instagram. I also market on YouTube and Google. Remember, exposure and marketing are super important when selling your home so make sure you choose someone who's going to expose your home to the masses, who has the knowledge and training to really do this right.

If you're thinking about buying or selling here in Redondo Beach, California, or anywhere in the South Bay, or would just like a little advice, give me a call. I'm always happy to help. Lesli with Lesli Koontz Real Estate, putting your family first.

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