Advice

Today’s market is competitive in many areas because the number of homes for sale is still low – and that’s leading to multiple-offer scenarios. Remember these four tips to make your best offer.

Leaving your house for an extended period, such as a month, requires careful planning to ensure the security of your property and your peace of mind while you're away. Here's a checklist of things to consider before you leave:

If you’re planning to move soon, you might be wondering if there'll be more homes to choose from, where prices and mortgage rates are headed, and how to navigate today’s market. If so, here's what the professionals are saying about what’s in store for this season.

Here in Los Angeles, we are very fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time with the doors open, enjoying that indoor/outdoor lifestyle. So, let's spend more time outdoors by making the garden the best it can be. Creating an oasis in your backyard involves blending elements of relaxation, nature, and personal style.

According to Bankrate, many people are seeking additional income through side hustles, possibly to cope with those increasing expenses and save for a home.

As St. Patrick's Day approaches, the vibrant streets of Los Angeles and the beachside community of Santa Monica come alive with the spirit of the Irish. From lively pubs to bustling street festivals, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate this festive occasion.

For some individuals, the realm of sports transcends mere competition; it becomes a canvas for refinement, elegance, and the pursuit of physical excellence.

If you own a luxury second home that isn’t being used as much anymore, it might be the year to sell. More than ever, there are buyers in the market.

In the world of mixology, certain cocktails have transcended trends and become timeless classics, celebrated for their perfect balance of flavors and enduring appeal. These libations have stood the test of time.

Mortgage rates and home prices are higher now than they were last year and that’s impacting what you can afford. But there are ways to overcome these things and still make your dream of homeownership a reality.

It's official. Red roses and chocolate are over. What you need is a Valentine's Day experience that is as unique as your relationship. While this might require a little thought and planning, it's well worth it. So, put your thinking caps on, and let's get to work on some romantic fun.

For those seeking a vacation experience that transcends the ordinary, the world is adorned with exclusive destinations that cater to the most discerning travelers.

If you're thinking about moving, it's important to know what's happening in the housing market. Here's an update on the supply of homes currently for sale. Whether you're buying or selling, the number of homes in your area is something you should pay attention to.

Los Angeles, a city known for its dynamic and ever-changing landscape, has seen the rise and fall of numerous cultural enclaves throughout its history. While some neighborhoods have thrived, others have faded into obscurity.

Even with so much data showing home prices are actually rising in most of the country, there are still a lot of people who worry there will be another price crash in the immediate future. Experts are predicting otherwise.

Why some folks prefer to steer clear of the resolution big top and explore alternative approaches to personal growth that won't have you walking the tightrope of disappointment.

Cocktail pools have surged in popularity in recent years, offering a sophisticated and space-efficient alternative to traditional swimming pools. These compact aquatic wonders, also known as plunge pools or spools, combine the relaxation of a hot tub with the refreshment of a pool

One thing that can help you find your next home is exploring all your options, including both homes that have been lived in before as well as newly built ones. Let’s look at the benefits of each one.

Los Angeles has long been synonymous with luxury and style. As the demand for seamless travel experiences grows, semi-private aviation has emerged as the epitome of opulence for discerning Angelenos.

This time every year, homeowners who are planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait until after the holidays? Some sellers with homes already on the market may even remove their listing until the new year…

If you’re a native of Los Angeles, you’re accustomed to checking the Air Quality Index on a daily basis and making decisions about your day. If you’re new to town and come from a more rural area, you might not be used to checking this little box on your weather app and seeing fluctuations in the AQI. But there are some very good reasons why you should…

When it comes to selling your house, you’re probably trying to juggle the current market conditions and your own needs as you plan your move. One thing that may be working in your favor is how few homes there are for sale right now. Here’s what you need to know about the current inventory situation and what it means for you.

California's wine industry is a thriving and diverse ecosystem, with numerous vineyards spread across the state. Among the most celebrated wine regions are Napa Valley and Paso Robles, each offering a unique and captivating wine-tasting experience.

If you've ever dreamed of buying your own place, or selling your current house to upgrade, you're no stranger to the rollercoaster of emotions changing home prices can stir up. It's a tale of financial goals, doubts, and a dash of anxiety that many have been through. But if you put off moving because you’re worried home prices might drop, make no mistake, they’re not going down.

Los Angeles is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to desserts, pie lovers are in for a treat. Whether you're a fan of traditional favorites like apple and cherry or seeking more unique, innovative flavors, Los Angeles has a pie shop for you.

Take a moment to imagine where you want to be in a few years. You might be thinking about your job, money, wanting more stability, or goals you want to reach soon. Is homeownership a part of that vision? If it is, you should know owning a home has a whole lot of financial benefits.

Do you ever feel like you just cruised through history and geography classes and didn’t learn anything? Is your teen struggling with these subjects? In a world where historical events and geographical facts can often be as dry as the Sahara, finding engaging and entertaining ways to absorb knowledge about our past and planet can be a Herculean task.

If you’re thinking about buying a home soon, higher mortgage rates, rising home prices, and ongoing affordability concerns may make you wonder if it still makes sense to buy a home right now. While those market factors are important, there's more to consider. You should think about the long-term benefits of homeownership too.

While our city boasts a plethora of world-class restaurants, sometimes all you crave is a good old-fashioned sandwich. Join us on a journey through the tantalizing world of Los Angeles' legendary sandwich establishments.

Experts project that 36.2 million Americans will be working remotely by 2025. If you’re in the market to buy a home and you work remotely either full or part-time, this trend is a game-changer. It can help you overcome some of today’s affordability and housing inventory challenges.

Los Angeles, often regarded as the epicenter of glamour and luxury, boasts a thriving market for those in pursuit of high-end timepieces. If you're a connoisseur of luxury watches or simply someone with an appreciation for the artistry and precision behind these horological masterpieces, you've come to the right place.

Even though you may feel reluctant to sell your house because you don’t want to take on a mortgage rate that’s higher than the one you have now, there’s more to consider. While the financial side of things does matter, your personal needs may actually matter just as much.

Creating a kid-friendly bento box is all about making a fun and balanced meal. Here's a simple guide and when you're looking for a bento box for yourself and you want someone else to make it, we have 8 great places that will fill your order.

If you remember the housing crash back in 2008, you may recall just how popular adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) were back then. And after years of being virtually nonexistent, more people are once again using ARMs when buying a home.

Hiding gym equipment can be a practical solution to maintain a clean and organized living space. Though a dedicated room or area in their home to work out is ideal, most people simply don’t have the space to create a home gym.

Many homeowners thinking about selling have two key things holding them back. That’s feeling locked in by today’s higher mortgage rates and worrying they won’t be able to find something to buy while supply is so low.

So, you want to buy a good quality Persian rug? We have four galleries in Persian Square that deserve your attention. Once you have rugs you love, what do you do with the ones you have, but don't love so much? We have some ideas.

Compared to the last few years, today’s market is still competitive in many areas of the country because the supply of homes for sale is still low. If you’re looking to buy a home this season, know that the frenzy of bidding wars in our neck of the woods is still happening and you will probably come up against multiple-offer scenarios.

Is your garage a chaotic mess filled with clutter and forgotten items? Don't worry; you're not alone. The garage tends to be one of the most neglected spaces in many households.

We love great architecture, especially when it comes in the form of a hovering spaceship or a flying saucer ready to launch into the skies! The Theme Building at LAX represents an enduring symbol of architectural innovation and mid-century modern design.

The process of buying a home can feel a bit intimidating, even under normal circumstances. But today's market is still anything but normal. Navigating all of this can be daunting if you’re trying to do it alone. That’s why having a skilled expert to guide you through the home-buying process is essential, especially today.

With all the headlines circulating about home prices and rising mortgage rates, you may wonder if it still makes sense to invest in homeownership right now. A recent poll from Gallup shows the answer is yes.

You’ve likely seen headlines about the number of foreclosures climbing in today’s housing market. That may leave you with a few questions, especially if you’re thinking about buying a house. Understanding what they really mean is mission-critical if you want to know the truth about what’s happening today.

Buying your first home is an exciting decision and a major milestone that has the power to change your life for the better. As a first-time homebuyer, it’s a vision you can bring to life, but, as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shares, you’ll have to overcome some factors that have made it more challenging in recent years.

During the fourth quarter of last year, many housing experts predicted home prices were going to crash this year. Now, forecasters are saying the worst is over and it wasn’t anywhere near as bad as they originally projected.

Buying and owning your home can make a big difference in your life by bringing you joy and a sense of belonging. And with June being National Homeownership Month, it’s the perfect time to think about all the benefits homeownership provides. 

For many of us, visiting the same vacation spot every year is a summer tradition that’s fun, relaxing, and restful. If that sounds like you, now’s the time to think about your plans and determine if buying a vacation home this year makes more sense than renting one again.

Even though home prices have moderated over the last year, many homeowners still have an incredible amount of equity. But what is equity? In the simplest terms, equity is the difference between the market value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage.

When housing inventory is as low as it is right now, it can feel like a bit of an uphill battle to find the perfect home for you because there just isn’t that much to choose from. If you need to open up your pool of options, it may be time to consider a newly built home.

If you’re planning to buy a home, an inspection is an important step in the process. It assesses the condition of the home before you finalize the transaction. It’s also a different step in the process from an appraisal, which is a professional evaluation of the market value of the home you’d like to buy.

As the housing market changes, you may wonder where it’ll go from here. You’ve likely heard that home prices have come down a bit or about a price crash on the horizon. As a result, you may be holding off on buying a home until prices drop. But that’s not necessarily the best strategy.

When you're in the process of applying for a loan, there are certain things you should avoid doing to ensure a smooth and successful loan application process. Here are some things not to do during loan processing:

Yes, it is possible to use gift funds as a down payment for a house. However, there are certain guidelines and requirements that you need to follow to ensure that the gift is properly documented and that it meets the lender's guidelines.

There are several myths surrounding refinancing a mortgage. It's important to do your research and consider all factors before deciding to refinance. Don't believe everything you hear, and work with a trusted lender to help you make the best decision for your financial situation.

If you're looking to improve the sellability of your home, there are several home improvements you can make that may help attract potential buyers and increase the value of your property. Here are some ideas…

Mortgage insurance is a type of insurance policy that protects lenders in case borrowers default on their mortgage payments. Here are 9 facts that you should know when you are financing your new home…

Gig workers often have fluctuating income streams as they move from one project or assignment to the next. Buying a house as a freelancer can be more challenging than if you were a salaried employee. However, it is still possible. Here are some tips to help you buy a house as a freelancer…

Breaking a lease in California can have legal and financial consequences, so it is important to understand your rights and obligations before taking any action. While we are not lawyers, this is our advice from a Realtor standpoint.

We get it. Paying cash for a home means you won't have to pay interest on a loan and any closing costs and paying off your mortgage (or not having one) can make you breathe a bit easier. However...

To determine if you have termites, it is best to have a professional inspection. Termites can cause significant damage to a structure and it is important to accurately identify them and determine the extent of the infestation. Here are the ways to tell if they’re in your space, what to do, and last resorts.

The cost of buying a home can vary widely and depend on many factors such as location, type of property, size, and age of the property. In general, a home buyer can expect to pay the following costs…

There are many different reasons why you may be house hunting far from home. Almost all of the reasons you might be long-distance house-hunting are the result of a major life event, and sometimes those can be stressful. In any case, here are our tips for long-distance house-hunting…

You've found the listing in a neighborhood that you love, but the house hasn't been built yet. Builders will construct a house on the speculation that it will sell easily for a profit, but you can buy it before they even break ground. Buying the house before it is built has advantages for both the buyer and the builder.

Whether you're new to Los Angeles or you've been here for some time, there's always an opportunity to discover new things in our city. Hiking is one of those lovely leisure activities that people don't think of in a large municipality, yet in the City of Angels, we have some beautiful hikes featuring nature experiences and views that can't be beat. Pack your sunglasses, sunscreen and drinking water; you're in for a treat!

Well, our gutters have gotten a workout, haven't they!? It's rare when Los Angeles gets soggy, but when it does, you find out a lot about how well your gutters are working (or how they aren't). The last storm set new records for Los Angeles, and it's not over yet. Here’s why they exist, what they are made of, and how often to clean them.

Whether you want a single-family house or condo is really up to each individual. If you’re ready to buy a property, the decision to purchase a condo vs. a house is a big one. There are many reasons a person might buy a condo instead of a typical single-family house.

The answer is easy! Hire someone else to do it! Hahaha. We know that's the easy answer. We also know that women are more adept at this, so we asked our girlfriends, wives, and female colleagues how they do it. Their secrets? Think first, use leverage, and double-down on tools.

With all of California's concern for the environment, it might surprise you that we're not #1 in the nation in management of household waste. California's tough new laws took us from #5 last year to #2 this year, which is great, but today, we're talking about the stuff that should never reach a waste bin, be it blue, green or black. We're talking about hazardous waste and how you can make a difference by disposing of it properly.

Don’t take the lowest bid! A low price is so attractive; who doesn’t want to pay less for the promise of more? Unfortunately, the same case can’t be made with most home improvement or home maintenance projects. Here are our rules for avoiding low bidders and getting the best person for the job…

Skate your way into the holiday season! From New York City to Toronto, Moscow, Amsterdam and all over the Northern Hemisphere, ice skating is an iconic holiday activity. But those snowy climates are not alone, Los Angeles also gets into the spirit. From first-time gliders to experienced skaters, get out your scarves, hats, and gloves and visit these ice rinks for merrymaking, outdoor fun and holiday smiles.

If you’re thinking about selling your home and relocating in 2023, now is the time to put a plan in place and begin getting your house prepared to move in this market. Here are 5 things to do to get your house ready for sale…

It seems strange that most of us grew up with our moms, aunts, and grandmothers running our home kitchens, yet when it comes to the restaurant industry, it tends to be men who have shaped, influenced and led its culture. In the spirit of support and pursuit of deliciousness, here are six talented female chefs making amazing food on the west side and what to eat when you visit their restaurants.

On November 8th, Angelinos voted on Initiative Ordinance ULA (United to House LA). Also known as Measure ULA or “the Mansion Tax”, the measure asked L.A. voters to fund and authorize affordable housing programs and resources for tenants at risk of homelessness. Here are some brief facts…

We are excited to welcome Adam Glick to the Bellet/Grakal team as a partner. Adam is an extraordinary person. He has a kind and caring spirit. He possesses a vast knowledge of real estate markets and has keen insight on what is happening next. We are excited to be working with him.

UGH. There is nothing more annoying than trying to work, sleep, eat, or do ANYTHING when there is a mosquito buzzing around you. We've recently discovered mosquitoes INSIDE our house. It's driving us batty. This crazy-making led us down a deep internet search to figure out where they are coming from and what to do about it (without poisoning ourselves, the children, and the dog).

Trick or Treat! Halloween is a great time of year in Southern California. We trick or treat on October 31st, no matter what day of the week it happens to be. We love staying home and seeing the parade of costumed kids as they stop in and ring the bell, but we also love a good Trick or Treat trip. Here are seven great neighborhoods on the Westside to see fantastic decorations and score some candy.

Color is a very important. There are a fair number of companies that like to proclaim a "color of the year". And why not? It gives us some idea about what is going to be trendy in different areas of life, including what colors you should choose for your house, whether you are buying, selling, or want to create a certain feeling. Here are the colors chosen by 8 paint companies as their 2023 Color of the Year.

While we love supporting local businesses, we also love the Internet and all of the abundance it provides. Large and small companies have embraced nation-wide shipping to create a dedicated following with their unique products and collections that delight their customers. We are steadfast fans of these creators and want to share our favorites with you. Here are 11 amazing things to order from companies across the nation.

"If you didn't live here, where would you live?"

Exploring what if's is a fun past time for us. Thinking about the path not taken opens up opportunities for creative thinking and exploration, so we play it often with our kids and friends. The question of "If you didn't live here..." makes us think of travel, and even though our business is all about staying right here in the City of Angels, we like to take time out of the area to explore.

There are so many places to get cookies in Los Angeles, including Insomnia Cookies who will deliver warm cookies to you in the middle of the night. We buzzed around the Westside looking for great places with chefs who are dedicated to the art of making the best cookies to put in your Cookie Monster face.

We love a good hardware store. We're not talking about the big-box stores with people who barely know a wing nut from a molly bolt...we're talking about the small, locally-owned places where you meet neighbors and get real, knowledgeable, expert advice.

Did you buy your home because of it's specific architectural period? Are you in love with a particular design era? We have two words for you: Architectural Salvage. Whether you are restoring, renovating, or remodeling, think about using Architectural Salvage pieces in your design. Adding a salvaged piece creates interest and gives you a focal point in your home or room.

We love taking tips and examples from our home stagers. They are professional experts on making a house feel like a work of art and have been so kind to give us a few pointers on how to live in a home that feels like it's ready for company at any moment. The key to everything: make every nook of your home beautiful. Here's how to do this in 5 steps...

This Labor Day is going to be a very warm one and while we thoroughly enjoy grilling a beautiful hanger steak or tender shrimp while hanging out on the patio, it's going to be uncomfortable. So, this Labor Day, we're ordering barbecue from one of our favorite spots.

Are you sober-curious? Our doctors give us plenty of reasons to quit drinking, but we now have a bunch more reasons: truly great nonalcoholic spirits. We can say goodbye to that Sunday morning headache and hello to keeping up our weekday healthy, active lifestyle every day.

Bees are amazing pollinators and their products help us in many ways. So what do you do when you have bees making a hive in your house, garage, or fence? Don't call an exterminator, call a bee rescue company.

Buying new furniture can be very expensive, especially if you buy quality pieces built to last. The only problem with this furniture is that when they go out of style they don't wear out, just the material covering does. Fortunately, reupholstering is much more sustainable than throwing your couch in a landfill.

Home renovations are a pain, but in the end make us happier (and sometimes healthier). Some of the best home improvements are expensive but add value when it comes time to sell or refinance. Here's our list of major home renovation projects to consider.

Yes! A professional picture hanger not only does all of the measuring and installation of your art, but they can curate your pieces around your home by suggesting placement, height, grouping, and re-framing to match your decor. They can hang almost anything, from your kids’ preschool genius to your ukulele collection

There are many reasons for buying instead of renting, but are you ready? Choosing to buy over renting depends on your finances, lifestyle, and personal goals. Here are 7 things to think about before calling us and one thing to ask us when you do.

Accessory Dwelling Units are great. They provide homeowners with an affordable and effective way to extend their primary residence with extra square footage right on your property. So, you're thinking about building one? Here are five things you'll want to do...

We love a good rooftop restaurant and since we live in Los Angeles, we feel like we have an obligation to our friends in less-than-fantastic climates to eat outdoors as often as possible. When dining al fresco also has a nice view, the experience becomes that much more special. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of some favorite places to eat al fresco on rooftops around L.A.'s Westside and Downtown.

What do we do in our spare time that helps us do our jobs as real estate agents? When anyone asks us or any other agent that, we always have a little giggle because there is very little time to spare when you work as a real estate agent. Even when we are taking time out, we never stop thinking about real estate and how we can help our clients.

Should you renovate your home all at once or one room at a time? This is a question that cannot be answered because there is no one-size-fits-all for every home and every situation. As with all home improvement situations: it depends. We have two clients who are very different. Here are their stories that make excellent case studies….

When you've leveled up your cooking game, there comes a moment when you feel the need to level up on cookware and plates as well. Not wanting to pay wedding registry prices, we decided to take a look at restaurant supply stores that would let us in to shop. We found five spots not far away…

In a competitive real estate market, it's tough for even extraordinarily well-qualified buyers. You need to stand out in a crowd and be well-qualified. How do you do that? Start the home-buying process early. Here are some pointers to get you ready before you buy:

It's summer! Hooray! Let's go outdoors and have a picnic! Los Angeles is full of great parks, gardens, and beaches just waiting for us to visit for a relaxing day full of fun and food. We aren't at the level of Martha Stewart, but we do know how to plan and pack for a great day. Here are our recommendations...

Holy cow. We didn't realize that so many of the plants in our house and our yard (and our neighbors' yards) were toxic for our dog! I mean, we aren't that worried...she doesn't make it a habit of eating everything in sight, but this information is good to have on hand. What do we have in our house and our yard is toxic for our pooch? Here's the list:

The big three: Zillow, Redfin and Trulia, all have proprietary algorithms that automatically generate estimates of your home's value, but are they accurate at all? No, not really. Why? Because computers can't do what humans can: look, feel, and form opinions.

When you get an ice cream maker as a gift from your family, you know that it is actually a gift for them. A good friend of ours received such a gift and is now the proud owner of of a very nice Cuisinart® ice cream maker. Don't get it wrong--she's quite elated to have it so she can experiment with different flavors. In light of this lovely situation, we asked her to give our readers her recipes.

A dovecote or dovecot, (or doocot in Scotland) is a structure intended to house pigeons or doves. Dovecotes may be free-standing structures in a variety of shapes, or built into the end of a house or barn. Take a walk in Cheviot Hills or California Country Club Estates and you'll see a lot of them.

Vegan chefs are known to be very clever...the MacGyvers of food. While it's easy to be an omnivore, being vegan takes some thought and effort. So, what do you do when you want to do dinner with a mixed group of friends? Fine dining in Los Angeles has your vegan answer that will not disappoint the meat-eaters in the crowd.

While it's our job to keep up with real estate trends, an extraordinary number of people spent many, many hours browsing for properties during our pandemic lockdown in 2020. Zillow and Realtor.com both saw increased traffic on their websites, as did we. Zillow recently analyzed their data and reported on their blog what we were all looking for:

We have been thinking about what happened to those brain cells that housed our high school French and Spanish lessons and decided that they could use some waking up. So, we started looking for places to re-learn what we've lost in these past xx years... Here's our list of language schools

L.A. is full of amazing museums with priceless masterpieces, but like every great city, she has her quirky side. Our list of obscure, funny, and interesting spots that are worth a visit (and return visits) has been shortened due to the global pandemic, but we have six spots around the city if you are looking for something different to do.

If you are a buyer and are interested in a particular neighborhood or small part of town, there's a good possibility that something is secretly for sale. We have connections with agents all over town and can help find the property that is perfect for you, even if it is highly confidential.

Why we write about baked goods the day after starting a new diet is a mystery that may never be solved. Today, we're dreaming about donuts. That sweet, pillowy ring of goodness that gives in to your bite and coats your lips with sugary glaze is a brilliant invention for which we are eternally grateful. Our list of West L.A. favorites…

We name our kids, we name our pets, we name our boats, some of us name our cars, so why not name our houses? It shows affection to your house and adds character to the place you spend most of your time in.

ge·o·cach·ing /ˈjēōˌkaSHiNG/ noun: geocaching The recreational activity of hunting for and finding a hidden object by means of GPS coordinates posted on a website. It's the world's largest treasure hunt! If you want to teach your kids (or your friends) how to read a map, the international game of Geocaching is a great way to do just that.

Dear Ben & Zack,

We are still in love with the 1950s house in California Country Club Estates but I’m thinking about installing solar. What's that going to take and where should I start? Thanks!

-Steph R.

Building electrification/decarbonization is part of California’s environmental effort that includes making new construction natural gas-free and electric-ready. But what about our appliances? We decided to educate ourselves and share our findings with you.

The speakeasy scene is alive and well here in L.A. Everyone likes to be in the know--to have a juicy secret, especially when it's mixed with gin. Here is our Westside list:

Are you thinking about jumping in to the rental property business? You're not alone. We field questions on this subject on a regular basis. If you have the right team members in your corner, your rental properties should run like a well-oiled machine.

While we love chasing down the freshest fruit, veg, bread, cheese, meat and seafood, keeping up with the farmers market scene feels like a never ending game of Pokemon Go. We love supporting local farmers and artisan food craftsmen. Plus, we love being able to get our knives sharpened while we shop.

We're almost past Dry January, and some of us didn't join the crowd in giving up alcohol. If like us, you're not quite ready to have a dry month altogether, but you want to slow down the drinking train a bit, we have a solution: low-alcohol cocktails.

The California Composting Law requires all California residents to separate organic waste from other garbage. We already have green bins in the side yard, now we just get to use them more than just lawn clippings and leaves. For those of us who already compost our kitchen scraps, this is no change, but for those who don't it's not a difficult transition to make.

When you are selling your home, there are so many things to do in order to get it ready BEFORE we can put it on the market. In short, we do those things for you. We're at your service in everything you need to sell your home.

Nerd Alert! We get a little giddy when we see one of these pop up on the MLS…Sears, Aladdin, Gordon Van Tine, Montgomery Ward, Lewis, Harris Brothers, Sterling, and Pacific Ready-Cut Homes were the big companies that sold kit homes via mail order.

Though there are so many renditions of this gorgeous song, no one did it better than Nat King Cole. That being said, have you ever had roasted chestnuts? They aren't like nuts at all, but are sort of like baked sweet potatoes. Sweet, meaty, and rich. Here’s how we roast them in the oven…

We've had clients who loved their house, but weren't wild about the pool in the back yard. Their kids were grown and they would have rather had a yard to entertain than a pool. In fact, the only member of their family that actually used the pool was their dog. So, we looked up the pros and cons, and the possible costs of removing their pool.

New houses are like the first day of school, full of opportunity and promise. But sometimes, the advantages of new houses are overshadowed by problems like shoddy construction and construction delays or construction stoppages for multiple reasons. The number one piece of advice we like to give is have your new house inspected during and after construction.

Nothing adds more beauty and comfort to our homes and offices than the lush flowers and foliage of indoor plants. Bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, cubicles... There really isn't a space a houseplant can't enliven. Bringing plants into your home is aesthetically pleasing and - amazingly - plants can offer strong health benefits as well.

We love a good gift shop and now more than ever we want to support local businesses. Los Angeles is full of great artists, craftsmen, and curators. While we can't list them all, here are 10 great gift shops that are our go-to's for when we need that special something for that special someone.

Our neighborhoods have so many lemon trees! Not only is this great for making lemonade from the juice - especially if they are Meyer Lemons - but we can use the peels to make homemade Limoncello. We just love that that sweet, boozy citrus taste of Italy.

Last-minute showings…this may be the most annoying part of selling your house — it has to look perfect at a moment’s notice, even though you have two dogs, three kids, and a full-time job. But you want or need to move, so you're in "keep it clean" mode, which seems impossible. Here’s our advice.

Nothing makes you feel like a rockstar more than having one of the best food trucks in the city parked in your driveway. Why have your catering done by a food truck? There are many reasons!

A home warranty is a yearly service contract that protects specific home systems and appliances. With a home warranty, you pay a monthly or yearly premium that will help offset the costs of maintenance, repair, or replacement of your appliances and systems.

It's human nature to worry about our stuff left behind when we venture out to new places. We love our homes, our cars, and especially our pets. It's hard to concentrate on enjoying our time off when we are worried or stressed. House sitters are great for maintaining your sanity and your home.

Entertaining people who drink, people who don't drink, and people who are DD's? We have some answers on how to please everyone in 2021, when we can finally, safely, have parties again. We were also having some fun, so we named them after the streets in the neighborhood.

A neighbor of ours is having a small wedding in her back yard next month. The bride and groom, friends of the family, knew they would never get in to one of their favorite venues with the backlog of weddings due to delays caused by the pandemic. I was curious, so I asked what their favorite venues are…

California is the leader in the US for ice cream production, churning 63.97 thousand gallons in 2019. This fun fact got us thinking about grabbing a cone or a pint, so we found six great purveyors of the sweet treat on the fashionable Westside.

Now that we are all getting vaccinated, let's plan some field trips for June! It's been a while since we've been horseback riding (or anywhere for that matter), so let's get back in the saddle.

We decided to take a look at some interesting offerings in our fair city for inclusive, diverse opportunities to gather together. From Downtown to the West Side, we found many interesting spots to pursue our interests, from athletic fitness and business networking to beneficent and convivial pursuits.

Here are seven easy home improvement projects you can do right away that will improve your selling position. No tools needed, just a little soap, water, and rearranging.

While we are socially distancing for now, gyms are beginning to open up. If you’re going to maintain an exercise routine, you need to enjoy it. You can if you find the exercise that fits your personality.

If you grew up in the neighborhood like we did, we have a certain nostalgia for the old days when we knew our neighbors really well, rode bikes until the sun went down, and didn't need to lock our doors. While it's sad that those days are gone and now we feel like we need to have security systems, it's a reality.

Who doesn't love having fresh flowers on a regular basis? We have 6 great florists serving our area who are true designers creating unique arrangements for your home or event. They also offer subscriptions so you can decorate your home weekly with the season's best.

Here's a peek into our personal Rolodex of amazing people who help us maintain our own homes. We try to use small businesses because we love keeping it local and we support entrepreneurs who have experience and passion for what they do.

We're a bit blue about the fact that we can't travel for Mardi Gras this year, but that's not going to stop us from getting the best Cajun food in our mouths this season. We have the local NOLA food and some online entertainment for you!

We all know Postmates, DoorDash, and Total Wine deliver, but do you know about the guys and gals who will bring you not only chilled libations, but also flowers, glassware, snacks and more in an hour? We do!

Homemade pasta is a work of art. Four ingredients create a toothsome noodle experience that is unrivaled. We make our own, but you can easily get it locally, and eat the best from our favorite Italian chef. Here's a recipe, a recommendation, and a restaurant…

Why increase curiosity? It keeps your brain sharp and allows for more creativity. More creativity leads to better problem-solving. Better problem-solving makes you better at your business.

We're betting on getting out of our dreadful lockdown situation by fall 2021, so we're booking travel to New Hampshire to see some fall color, visit the White Mountains, and eat some lobster.

No, we're not dieting. We are going to eat better food. We are going to savor every bite. We're going to hit the specialty shops. We're going to take to the kitchen with really good ingredients and we are going to support local businesses as we do it.

We love French food. Famous TV Chefs have been launched on Julia Child's French cooking success and we're here for it. What is strange is that there is a seeming lack of French restaurants in Los Angeles…

We live in Southern California, but we're now treating this time like we live in a wintery climate, which means more time inside with the family. Let's make it more fun. Let's play games!

One of our friends gave us the very generous gift of salmon he caught in Alaska. Our very full freezer gave us an idea: let's make lox. Now we need some great bagels to go with it.

Like to roast, broil, braise or grill? We do, and we are really proud of our cooking chops. Here are the guys and gals you want to know west of Western to make your Friday or Sunday dinner stand up and take center stage…

We've been having a bit of wanderlust and it's hurting our hearts a bit, to be perfectly honest. In light of the fact that travel is downright dangerous, we've been checking in as a virtual tourist, and Google Maps is serious about immersing you in the locations.

When you are thinking about buying a home, condo or commercial building, you will want an inspection by a qualified and impartial professional, even if it is new construction.

We are in charge of ALL of the cooking, but for fewer people: appetizers, soup, mains, dessert, cheese, coffee. Just because it’s a smaller crowd, it's not a smaller effort. Here are the secrets to keeping it chill.

When hunting for a new house, it's a great idea to have a wish list. A house-hunting wish list helps you think about what you need, want and what would be bonus features. Download the wish list!

COVID-19 has us all locked down still and no one is going in to the office (if they are working at all) and that is absolutely killing the food truck business. No one is searching for that quick, delicious lunch from talented roaming chefs. Over 2700 have parked, some never to return. Those still operating are doing everything they can to stay afloat.

Yes, you can get some decent tacos on the Westside, but let's take a trip downtown for the good stuff. I'm talking about handmade tortillas like the abuelas do it, meat from the smoker, and fresh Mexican cheese.

Pocket listings are exclusive listings. This type of listing is very private and terms are stated in the listing agreement with the real estate agent. We know that it might sound strange that someone would want to keep their sale private, but it's pretty common.

Statistics show that hiring a realtor is advantageous. Statistics show that realtors net 25% more on average on a sale than a FSBO. Here are 10 of the many things we do to help you sell your home…

Agents have a long list of things they do from the start of a real estate transaction to closing of escrow. Here are just 10 of the things that we do for buyers:

As veteran homeowners will attest, there are good contractors and bad contractors on any job, from roofers to rooters. The key is finding the guys and gals who really love what they do and take pride in their work.

Millennials represented the largest cohort of home buyers at 25 percent, and sellers want to know how to attract this generation of buyers, so we’ve compiled a list of what they are looking for in a home.

We’re planning for an earthquake; a scenario that dictates that we leave the house and live in the back yard for a week. We go from the basics to bougie.

Let's take a break on the patio, shall we? Don't have a patio? We can help you get one with a house attached.

The number of floors in a home makes a huge difference not only in the looks of a home, but affects many other factors as well.

Besides packing, unpacking and the actual move, there are a number of things on the grand to-do list when you are moving.

Small repairs and DIY maintenance are often needed to show buyers that you’ve taken good care of the home. A little elbow grease can make a big difference when it comes to how long it takes to sell your home and how much it sells for.

If you are selling or buying property, you must understand contingency clauses and how they could affect you. Let us walk you through the most common ones...

Yes. Yes it does.

We've all come to know and embrace the term curb appeal, because first impressions are so very important.

Here are some things to consider before taking on a project: budget, financing, hiring the right contractor, and have fun.

• Attention to Detail

• A Small Army of Craftsmen

• Surgical Precision

• A Degree in the Arts

His name is Carl Tillmanns. His business is called House Painting LA.

Many factors go into the process of figuring out the market value of a home. Of course, you can go online and check out the automated home value estimator of your choice. But these are just ballpark figures.

When you are selling your home, there are so many things to do in order to get it ready BEFORE we can put it on the market. In short, we do those things for you.

We celebrate American Independence Day on the Fourth of July every year. So, what wine goes with Independence Day? Well, a sparkling wine from California, of course!

When you drive through Cheviot Hills, you see many large homes that were built in the late 1920's. Then you cross an invisible line into CCCE and you wonder why there are so may single story ranch homes in this area…

You know how you look at a staged home on the market and you think that your home could never look that good? IT CAN!

Like a great rug, a piece of art can really tie a room together. Searching for just the right piece can be a long and arduous process. The solution? Custom commissioned pieces.

Vintage appliances are still valued (and safe). These 50's era cooking units are gorgeous works of art and are still appreciated by home cooks and chefs alike.

COVID-19 has forced companies to adapt to home-based workers - a development that is unlikely to be turned back. As we continue to stay at home and work remotely, we're pretty sure that this will become the new normal.

The one thing people have been asking us lately is, "How has the pandemic affected your business?"

We Miss Open Houses!

We're at home this Sunday (again), so what wine pairs with cookies? Let’s explore…

Since it is Mother's Day, we're celebrating with one of Mom's favorite dinners. She loves a good brisket, but loves a good Santa Monica Tri-Tip from the grill even more.

Here are a few tricks to optimize your bandwidth when you, your spouse, your kids, and your neighbors are ALL using the web.

You can still tour our homes from the safety of yours, but what else can you tour? Turns out, quite a bit! Here are a few ideas.

So, we never thought we'd get cabin fever in Los Angeles, but here we are. Thanks, COVID-19, for this extra-special treat.

As things change so very rapidly with the COVID-19 containment effort, we remain accessible to all of our clients to help with any real estate-related questions and needs anyone might have.

Being at home all the time can be challenging. It's work and play and school and meals all in the same place. We did a quick brainstorming to make it all work and so far, so good!  Here are our tips and tricks to keep you and the rest of your family sane, healthy, and smiling.

If you have questions about buying, selling, leasing, or real estate in general, just give us a call! We love to help.

We're not sure who said this first, but we wholeheartedly agree. What we do is a combination of figuring out the needs of our clients and what will spark a love for a home.

Can I “Marie Kondo” my garage? We all have goals.