Have some fun with the Oscars this year

By: Deena Nissley

Best Steak: Oscar Viewing Party at Morton’s
Watch the big show on a nine-foot HD screen with a three-course prix fixe dinner and Champagne toast.
Make reservations: They’re required.
Sun 3p. Morton’s The Steakhouse, 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills (310-246-1501). $100 per person. Nearby: Versailles; Roger Room; Awash

Don’t Call Me Shirley: Leslie Nielsen Double Feature at the Egyptian
Join director David Zucker for screenings of the classics Airplane! and The Naked Gun.
Oscar watch: On Friday, the Egyptian shows Academy Award-nominated animated and live action short films.
Sat 7:30-11:30p. Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (323-566-3456). $7-11 here. Nearby: Roosevelt Hotel; Les Deux Estate; h.wood

Rock Show: Best Coast at The Music Box
LA native-turned-New Yorker Bethany Cosentino and her band blast out lo-fi surf rock that leaves no doubt what coast they’re referring to.
Video love: Watch their clip for “Boyfriend” here.
Tonight 9p. The Music Box, 6126 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (323-464-0808). $57 and up here. Nearby: Blue Palms Brewhouse; Amoeba Records; Space 15Twenty

Body Art: Love and Paint
Couples getting it on become the paintbrushes for Alexander Esguerra’s works of art. Check it out at this live demonstration.
Really? Yes. Check out some safe-for-work video here.
Fri 9-11p. Voyeur, 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood (323-654-0280). No cover, open bar. Nearby: Bar Lubitsch; Winston’s; Crown Bar.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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While the Getting’s Good…

By: Cynthia Sparagna

The Case-Shiller Index is one of the country’s most popular ways of measuring the movement of home prices. And in its latest rating, which went out in late December, the verdict was: Prices are down. The Case-Shiller report’s 20-City Composite rating was 0.8% lower than it was one year previously; the first year-on-year decrease since October 2009.

In some markets, sales were the worst ever—as the report noted: “While the composite housing prices are still above their spring 2009 lows, six markets—Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, Portland (OR), Seattle and Tampa—hit their lowest levels since home prices started to fall in 2006 and 2007, meaning that average home prices in those markets have fallen beyond the recent lows seen in most other markets in the spring of 2009.” This may make buyers complacent, expecting prices to go down further. And if you’re a seller, your immediate reaction might be to hide under the covers.

But all may not be so negative—in fact, quite the contrary. For one, Case-Shiller numbers, when they come out, have a lag time of several months—the aforementioned batch covers through October. Since then, a lot of positive things have happened. For one, strong consumer holiday-shopping showings boosted big retailers across the country, making it the best shopping season in years. A rising stock market and tax-cut extension has also made folks a little less nervous to open their wallets. And, while unemployment is still a problem, there is some good jobs news as well—initial jobless claims fell to 388,000 for the week ending Dec. 25, down from 422,000 in the prior week (the first time it’s gone below 400,000 since July 2008).

It’s because of reasons like this—increased consumer confidence and slight lessening of fear—that you shouldn’t count on home prices dropping more. Part of it is psychological: If people see the financial and retail markets go up, signaling that the bottom in this particular financial cycle has been reached and things are moving upward, that creates more interest in buying big-ticket items, like homes. It’s normal for a buyer to start rationalizing things this way: If the economy’s starting to improve, this house is going to wind up costing much more at some point. I’d better get in the door now, so I don’t miss the boat.

Yes, there are still plenty of problems. Not just rampant unemployment (despite initial jobless claims numbers), but also a high number of foreclosures, a crowded inventory landscape and mortgage rates that are anything but friendly. But these factors could, ironically, be a sign to buy. For instance, when interest rates go up uniformly over time as they have been, people develop a bite-the-bullet mentality, thinking: “I’d better buy now even though they’re high, because it doesn’t seem like they’re going down any time soon.”
This mentality—of getting in before things move up—is something to think about if you’ve been considering selling. Get your home prepared to sell by having a professional home inspection and fixing major problems that could be impediments to buyer interest. And for buyers: Buying a home is an individual process with many factors at play, so it’s impossible to say that it’s the ideal time for everyone to buy. But for many buyers, a simple saying may very well hold true: Get in while the getting’s good.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Cynthia Sparagna

Cynthia Sparagna, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Fernando Valley. Cynthia was raised on the East Coast and was the middle of seven children.

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2011 to see gradual improvement

By: Cynthia Sparagna

According to economists, we will see gradual improvements in housing activity this year. As the economy and job market continue to move to recover, this will provide the economy with an essential moment which will carry us into more considerable gains in 2012.

“This year’s spring selling season will be better than last year’s,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. Multifamily, which is poised to profit from a disproportionate number of Gen Y members moving into the housing market, has seen the bottom of the cycle, he said, and will see its starts rise 16% this year to 133,000 units, with a further 53% increase in 2012 to 203,000 units. The confidence of consumers is also rebounding, which in mid 2010 “froze in place, faced with a lot of uncertainty.” A recent pickup in durable purchases for such items as automobiles and furniture indicates that consumers are less afraid today of losing jobs and income.

On the other hand, new-home sales, “will struggle” but begin following employment gains, reaching 405,000 for the year, up from an estimate of about 320,000 for 2010. The U.S. economy will receive a boost from the massive tax package enacted at the end of last year, he said, including more income going into the pockets of wage earners thanks to a one-year 2% reduction in Social Security taxes. This will contribute to the gross domestic product strengthening from the 2.5% range to 3.5% to 3.8% by year’s end.

Overall, buyers with resources will likely begin to emerge in the market this springtime. Start looking for improvement.

For more information, visit www.nahb.org.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Cynthia Sparagna

Cynthia Sparagna, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Fernando Valley. Cynthia was raised on the East Coast and was the middle of seven children.

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Now, more than ever

By: Cynthia Sparagna

If you’re paying notice to the media’s commentary on owning a home, you may get the wrong idea. In some circles, mostly academic, people question whether our country would be better off as a nation of renters rather than owners. Although the argument is appealing given today’s economic climate, owning a home is one of the best ways to build long-term wealth. It is also the key to economic growth, accounting for 15% of our GDP. Research shows that for every home purchased, $60,000 is spent on home improvements and related amenities. Homeowners also pay 80-90% of individual federal income taxes.

For more than 100 years, members of the National Association of Realtors have championed homeownership as a fundamental part of the American Dream. It is important that we stand up for one of our countries principle ideas – ownership. In the past 12 years, a typical owners net worth has been 31-46 times that of a renter. An owner consistently enjoys stable housing costs as well. In fact, fixed rated mortgage payments stay more level than rent, which has increased an average of 3% each year in the last 10 years. Most interesting is the fact that homeowners are known to vote and volunteer more. They enjoy a better quality of life, tend to be happier, healthier, and feel a greater sense of control over their lives.

For more information on this study, search http://www.realtor.org/ for a paper entitled “The Social Benefits of Home Ownership.”

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Cynthia Sparagna

Cynthia Sparagna, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Fernando Valley. Cynthia was raised on the East Coast and was the middle of seven children.

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The brightest Los Angeles lights

By: Deena Nissley

Newport Beach: Christmas Boat Parade
After 102 years, Newport has this holiday boat cruise down. Watch as 75 or so boats and million dollar yachts kick off the five night cruise tomorrow. After, stop at the nearby Zimmerman house, a single home adorned with more than 25,000 lights.
Wed-Sun 6:30-9p. Parade starts at Bay Island, but watch it from anywhere along the harbor. Zimmerman House: 327 Sapphire Ave., Balboa Island

Oxnard: Christmas Tree Lane
Forget tasteful. This entire neighborhood pays homage to the holiday season by cranking up home decoration to eleven. Ride through on a trolley for $10 until Thursday. Otherwise, we recommend walking.
6-10p nightly thru December 26. F & G Streets between 5th and Palm, Oxnard (805-385-7545).

Riverside: Mission Inn’s Festival of Lights
The city-block sized landmark hotel is covered in a staggering, see-it-from-space overload of 3.5 million lights. As an extra draw, holiday room specials allow you to take your significant other to relax at their spa and get her mind off any last-minute shopping.
Thru January 2nd. The Mission Inn Hotel, 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside (951-784-0300).

Altadena: Christmas Tree Lane II
Since 1920, Altadena has been stringing lights around the 150 cedars that line this 1/4 mile stretch of road, but the most impressive spectacle in the vicinity is actually the Balian House at 1960 Mendocino Lane.
Thru Jan 7, dusk until 10p. Santa Rosa Ave. between Woodbury Ave. and Altadena Dr., Altadena (626-403-1123)

Venice: Local Spirits
The residents of the canals have decorated not only their homes, but also most of the bridges within the small community. The best way to see everything is walk, so park on Ocean, Venice, or Washington and stroll through. The candy cane corner house at Carroll Ct. and Eastern Ct. with its animatronic displays and dazzling array of lights is the highlight.
Until at least New Year’s. Throughout the Venice Canals, Venice

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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Potted Christmas Trees

By: Deena Nissley

Some of us enjoy a real tree at Christmas but can’t stand the thought of killing a perfectly good tree. This year, keep that good old pine smell floating through the house but don’t kill a tree. Pick out a delivery date, put down a deposit, and in return you’ll get a potted tree that smells like Christmas, and will impress any eco-friendly elves who stop by.

They’ve got pines, cedars, and sequoias ranging from Charlie Brown-sized two-footers to behemoths  that dwarf Lamar Odom. When the holiday season is over, they’ll pick it back up.

And if you fall in love with your tree and can’t bear to part with it, you can adopt to get the same exact tree delivered Christmas after Christmas. This is great.

Living Christmas
(310) 344-8733
livingchristmas.com

Price: $25-$125 before delivery ($30-60)

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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Looking for Lunch in Tarzana?

By: Caitlin Lassen

The Tarzana Armenian Deli is said to have created the “first pita wrap sandwich” in Los Angeles, and I believe it – I’ve been getting them here for over 20 years. It’s the perfect sandwich in my opinion, made using Premium Boar’s Head meat, string cheese, and fresh veggies wrapped in pita bread that is freshly baked every day. I like to spice up the meal with one of their authentic sides such as babaganoush, hummus, or stewed eggplant. As a family run business, “Pops” operates the Tarzana location and his son-in-law runs the Studio City location. Both stores are conveniently located on Ventura Blvd. making a healthy, fast, affordable lunch possible during this busy holiday season. Visit their website for more info www.tagdeli.com.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Caitlin Lassen

Caitlin Lassen specializes in residential sales throughout the San Fernando Valley and greater Los Angeles area. As a lifelong resident of the San Fernando Valley, Caitlin offers the local and regional perspective that clients need to invest with confidence.

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New Cafe in town

By: Ron Viola

In the heart of Sherman Oaks on Ventura Blv, Sweet Butter Kitchen is open for a light lunch, quick dinner or morning cappuccino. Last week I stopped in for brunch and had a wonderful meal outside under their heated patio with a cup of Intelligentsia coffee.

Sweet Butter is a great new place for the neighborhood headed up by Leslie Danelian and husband Rick Berge. Leslie began her culinary career as a food stylist and recipe writer. Sweet butter offers tons of creative food options for all types of eaters.

Click here to view map.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

rjviola

Hot new denim hitting the Calabasas Courtyard

By: Barbara Lipkin

Studio City-based denim store Dungarees will soon open for business inside the Courtyard at the Commons, according to the shopping center’s web site. Dungarees is an active wear boutique that specializes in denim for men and women. The store should be opening inside the Courtyard at the Commons before Christmas.

Dungarees was at the forefront of the denim revolution/explosion, as activewear played an important part of the 90′s California lifestyle, with jeans being an essential part of your everyday wardrobe. Jeans were, and still are, an essential fashion staple of the entertainment industry (television, film, and music), and right from its opening Dungarees was quickly working with many of the studios and celebrities.

Dungarees is a leader in introducing new denim brands while continuing to carry brands that are considered a staple. When Dungarees opened in the 90′s, they introduced their customers to many European denim lines from Italy, France, London and Switzerland, which included such brands as Diesel, Replay, Big Star, and Aviatic.

Dungarees still carries several European denim brands, but with the recent shift of denim manufacturing in Los Angeles, most of the lines they carry are from here. The Studio City location is used for such television shows as MTV’s “Punk’d”, HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, and “90210”; plus Dungarees works with the studios and supplies clothes for many television shows and feature films. Dungarees has been part of the fabric of the Los Angeles community since 1991.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Barbara Lipkin

Knowledgeable, caring and successful are words that best describe Barbara Lipkin, a Hidden Hills resident and top producing realtor with over 28 years experience. Barbara combines personal concern for her clients with professional expertise to achieve outstanding results in her field.

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Be prepared for our next quake

By: Tina Stern

If you’re like most people, after every California earthquake you tell yourself, “I’m going to get prepared for the next one.” Then you don’t do a thing about it.

Well, now you can do something about it. Just by reading this page, doing what it says and saving it. Many earthquake experts in Southern California recommend the following tips to minimize damage in the event of an earthquake.

1. Put together a kit of basic emergency supplies. Include a portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit and handbook, wrenches to turn off gas and water valves, and food, water and medication for every member of your family for at least one week.
2. Secure your hot water heater. If your hot water heater falls over during an earthquake, the gas line can rupture and create sparks which can lead to a fire or explosion.
3. Know where your gas, electric and water main shutoffs are and how to shut them off.
4. Secure your tall and heavy furniture. Bookcases, entertainment centers and china cabinets can easily fall over during an earthquake.
5. Put some extra nails in heavy objects that are off the floor such as shelves, mirrors and large picture frames.
6. Hunt for hazard areas in your home. Teach your children to stay away from windows, mirrors and tall furniture.
7. Search for safe places in your home. Show your children how to take cover under a table, desk, or against inside walls.
8. Have a plan to reunite your family after an earthquake. Travel may be difficult and phone lines may be down, so don’t drive or call anyone unless it’s a real emergency.
9. Check for injury or damage after the shaking stops.
10. Above all, do not panic.

Practicing earthquake drills with your entire family and being prepared with the above instructions will put you in a safer position during any ground motion. Stop rumbling about how you’re going to get ready for “the next one.” Prepare for it today. The County of Los Angeles has an Earthquake Survival Program (ESP) with easy monthly preparedness steps.

For more information, call the Office of Emergency Management at (213) 974-1166 or visit the ESP website at www.espfocus.org

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tina Stern