What To Expect From Your REALTOR® if You're Buying or Selling An HOA Property

Downtown Long Beach street view

Real estate professionals should encourage prospective home buyers to carefully consider what they’re buying into when they purchase a home in an HOA community. Both condominiums and single family homes/townhouses may be part of an HOA. Many buyers who would like a single family home may find that in the same area, an HOA property may be more affordable for them, so the following should be considered.

Fact: California is one of three states with the most homes under HOAs, 37% of all homes in the state are in HOAs. The other two are Florida (45%) and Texas (20%). Nationally, HOAs represent about 30% of the U.S. housing stock, or over 75 million owners.

REALTORs® Must Disclose:  Sellers, listing agents and buyer agents should disclose if a home is in an HOA community, as this is considered a “material fact” under the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. Agents who are REALTORS® must ensure that buyers and sellers are aware of any facts that could affect their decision to buy, sell or lease, says Deanne Rymarowicz, senior counsel of legal affairs at the National Association of REALTORS®. During the due diligence period of a real estate transaction, if not before, real estate professionals should advise their buyer clients about the existence of a homeowners association and stress the importance of obtaining and reviewing HOA governing documents, she adds. Listing agents should ask their sellers if an HOA exists in their community, as certain information, like monthly or annual fees, special assessments and shared amenities, can be included in the MLS.

Many times a client expects their agent to review and interpret the HOA governing documents, but that would be considered an “unauthorized practice of law,” which violates Article 13 of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. For example, agents should not interpret an HOA’s CC&Rs, bylaws or budget, Rymarowicz cautions. Instead, agents should advise their clients to consult an attorney with any questions.

An Information source: Real estate professionals can help clients gather HOA documentation and facilitate answers to their questions from sellers, the HOA board or HOA management company. It should be noted that many property management companies respond only to requests from the seller/property owner/Board of Directors, in accordance with contract terms, so that buyers should submit information requests through their own agent, not directly contact the seller or management company. Also, agents should make sure that HOA disclosures and information packets are delivered and received in a timely fashion (in California they are usually provided to the escrow officer for distribution) as some states, such as California, allow buyers to terminate a purchase contract within a certain period. “It’s incumbent on agents to make sure the buyer is aware of any deadline to review information packets so they can make the right determination for them,” Rymarowicz says.

There are many more consideratons about buying into an HOA, including rules about landscaping, monthly fee amounts, security, pets, parking, rental restrictions, insurance, financing, are just some of the features that should be reviewed when considering an HOA purchase. In  California the buyer has a 17-day investigation period in the standard contract to receive and review the governing documents.

 More Information about HOAs:  https://www.doorloop.com/blog/hoa-statistics   - There are now over 363,000 HOAs in the United States, there were about 10,000 in the 1970s.

I have listed and sold many HOA properties, and would be happy to answer your questions, or provide you with additional information about selling or purchasing in an HOA.  Just let me know!

From "Navigating HOA Rules: Considerations for Real Estate Agents, Buyers and Sellers" by Melissa Dittman Tracey, National Association of REALTORS

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Understanding HOA Fees in a Homeowner Association

Houses facing street

When considering a move to a gated community in Long Beach, understanding Homeowners Association (HOA) fees is crucial. These fees are a significant factor in the overall cost of living and play a vital role in maintaining the quality and amenities of the community. They are also factored into a buyer's loan qualification before getting approval. Some HOAs are composed of multi-family style attached units (i.e., Stoneybrook), while others are made up of detached single family residences (i.e., Del Lago).

Multi unit building with balconies

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand HOA fees in Long Beach gated communities.

What are HOA Fees?

HOA fees are monthly or annual payments made by homeowners to the Homeowners Association, which is responsible for managing and maintaining the community common  areas. These fees fund various services, amenities, and community upkeep. Not all the factors listed below will necessarily apply to the association under consideration, there may not be a guard gate, interior roads or a pool. In Long Beach, there are however numerous association which do include many features on the list. It's important to know all the features you may be paying for.

What Do HOA Fees Cover?

HOA fees in gated communities often cover a wide range of services and amenities, including:

1. Security Services

   • 24/7 security personnel
   • Gated entrance management
   • Surveillance cameras and security systems

2. Maintenance and Repairs

   • Landscaping and lawn care
   • Street and sidewalk maintenance
   • Common area repairs (e.g., clubhouses, pools)

3. Utilities

   • Water and sewage for common areas
   • Lighting for streets and common areas

4. Amenities

   • Upkeep of recreational facilities (pools, gyms, tennis courts)
   • Clubhouse maintenance
   • Community events and activities

5. Insurance

   • Insurance for common areas and community structures

6. Reserve Fund Contributions

   • Savings for future large-scale repairs and replacements (e.g., roofing, road resurfacing)

Factors Influencing HOA Fees

HOA fees can vary significantly based on several factors:

1. Community Size and Type

   • Larger communities with more homes often have lower fees due to shared costs.
   • Luxury communities with high-end amenities may have higher fees.

2. Amenities and Services Offered

   • Communities with extensive amenities (pools, fitness centers, golf courses) typically have higher fees.
   • Enhanced security measures can also increase fees.

3. Maintenance Requirements

   • Older communities may require more frequent repairs, leading to higher fees.
   • Communities with extensive landscaping or high-maintenance amenities may have higher costs.

4. Management Style

   • Professionally managed HOAs may have higher fees due to management company costs.
   • Self-managed communities might have lower fees but require active homeowner participation, and the knowledge to self-manage.
     

How Are HOA Fees Determined?

HOA fees are typically determined by the community’s budget, which is developed by the HOA board. This budget outlines all anticipated expenses for the year, including maintenance, amenities, and reserve fund contributions. Homeowners may have the opportunity to review and comment on the budget before fees are finalized.

Why Do HOA Fees Vary in Long Beach?

In Long Beach, the variation in HOA fees can be attributed to:

• Location: Communities closer to the coast or with scenic or ocean views usually have higher fees due to premium real estate values.
• Community Size: Smaller, exclusive communities may have higher fees to cover fixed costs among fewer homeowners.
• Amenity Quality: Communities offering high-end amenities or newer facilities often have higher fees to maintain these features.

Pros and Cons of HOA Fees

Pros

• Well-Maintained Community: Regular maintenance and repairs keep the community attractive and functional.
• Access to Amenities: HOA fees provide access to various amenities without additional out-of-pocket costs.
• Property Value: Well-maintained communities often see higher property values.

Cons

• Cost: HOA fees are an additional expense on top of mortgage payments and property taxes.
• Restrictions: HOAs may impose rules and regulations that limit how you use or modify your property.
• Financial Management: Poor financial management by the HOA can lead to unexpected fee increases or special assessments. Recent insurance increases in the market also have an impact.
  

Tips for Managing HOA Fees

1. Budget Accordingly: Factor in HOA fees when calculating your overall housing budget.
2. Understand the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the HOA’s rules and regulations to avoid fines.
3. Attend Meetings: Participate in HOA meetings to stay informed about budget decisions and fee changes.
4. Review Financial Statements: Regularly review the HOA’s financial statements to ensure funds are managed properly.

Conclusion

Understanding HOA fees is essential for anyone considering moving to a gated community. These fees ensure that the community remains secure, well-maintained, and equipped with desirable amenities. By understanding what HOA fees cover, how they are determined, and how to manage them, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a hassle-free living experience in your new community. When in escrow, make sure that all documents submitted to you as the buyer are reviewed before you investigation period expires.

For more personalized advice or to explore gated communities in Long Beach, feel free to contact me. With my experience in HOAs, I can provide detailed insights and help you find the perfect home.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Long Beach Housing Market Profile for November 2022

Amazingly, the median and average single family prices are up over the rolling calculation 12 month period by 7% and 11%, respectively. Comparing November to November, however, the median price is down almost 4%, but the average sales price is up over 3%!  Yes, the year has been somewhat fractured, what with interest rates down, then up, then softening again most recently.

Although it may vary in individual neighborhoods and price points, the original list to sale price on a rolling 12 month basis was over 100% -- still!  But then comparing November to November, that figure shows sales prices were down almost 4% for the City as a whole.  

November Housing Stats for Long Beach CA

The picture for condominiums is similar, the 12 month rolling calcuation is up over 9%, the November to November comparison is down for median prices, still up slightly for the average condo price.

Long Beach condo pricing - November

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best wishes for a beautiful end of 2022 holiday celebration!

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Just Listed, South Wrigley Charmer in Long Beach

Front porch of Wrigley home

Living Room and fireplace

 

Update:  this property is listed as of 11/22/2022 for $720,000.  Best of this Wrigley neighborhood in Long Beach, this lovely home at 861 W 21st St is ideally located for those who need to commute to nearby Lakewood/Long Beach/

Backyard gazebo

Formal dining room and china cabinet

Los Angeles areas for work, or just want a very comfortable two-bedroom home.  Spacious back yard patio and gazebo with yard is ideal for entertainers or gardeners. Front xeroscaping is suitable for the environment, new driveway gate offers privacy and security. Art Deco styling is typical of the 1935 era, and newer plumbing is a maintenance asset. See it all at the MLS listing. Contact listing agent for more information, or visit my website below to see "featured properties" or open houses tab. List price at $740,000.  Find out more information for a $5000 grant for the buyer and qualifying for a special program.  Such programs may be helpful in buying down an interest rate, and saving money on the monthly mortgage!

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Long Beach Residential Update for July, 2021

 

Median listing prices for active properties in Long Beach range from $425,000 to $1.4 million in July, 2021.   The least number of properties on the market are in the lower price range of under $500,000, most inventory is listed well over $600,000.  

About this graphic:  This graphic combines single family homes and condos into one median price point for the "active" properties for the month.  The median price is where half sold for more and half sold for less; medians are more typical than average prices.  The estimated monthly mortgage payment assumes a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at the current interest rate. Payment also includes an assumption of 1.38% for property taxes and insurance.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Long Beach Market Update for July, 2021

As of July 1st-30th, the number of single family homes sold in Long Beach totaled 192, price ranging from $375,000 to $6,600,000.  The MLS shows that 39 sold under list price, all others sold at or higher than original list price, some times significantly higher--in all price ranges.  

For instance, 420 Monrovia Ave., in Alamitos Heights area of Long Beach, was listed at $2,299,000, on 6/18, then increased in price to $2,499,000, then sold on 7/26/2021 at $2,400,000.  It went into escrow the same day it became active in the MLS.

3817 Albury was listed at $549,900, and closed at $605,000, after 2 days on the market. 

Similar stories of a  sold price of $50,000 increase over list price are not unusual. 

The median Long Beach sale price for July was $705,000, where median list price was $705,000 and the median sale price was $738, 750.  The Long Beach average list price was $696,293, average close price was $714,770 with an average of 13 days on the market.

Yes, there are some properties that have been on the market for quite a while, still waiting for a buyer.  The longest is 346 days for a multimillion asking price in the Naples area, but another one listed for $799,000 has been waiting for a buyer for 114 days as of July 30th.  Park Estate, Belmont Heights, Carson Park, all have a few listings that are waiting for a buyer, so not absolutely everything is selling in less than a week, although buyers should be prepared for moving quickly on most properties.

There were 113 condos that sold in the same time frame, with the majority selling over list price also. But the median price is $436,500, median sell price is $445,500, days on market 12.

If you are thinking of selling, or would like to evaluate your possible sell price at this time, please contact me via phone or email.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

2019 End of Year Single Family Home Activity for Los Angeles and Orange Counties

Los Angeles County 2019 Review for SFR

The thing to remember about statistics showing data drawn from December to December (as these diagrams show) is that the market is usually slower, lower, etc., at the end of the year compared to the middle of the year, so comparisons from December to the following August could show a little differently.

Sales volume is up in Los Angeles County, while the number of active listings is down, but the median and average home prices continue up--meaning that there's decreasing inventory with sales prices driven upward.

Closed Volume
  $7,812,678,480 | +27.4%;
Average Price
  $1,004,807 | +9.4%;
Active Listings:
  7,787 | -35.1%; (13,579 in June)

  

Orange County 2019 Review for SFR

In the meantime, in Orange County, sales volume is also up percentage wise, but the total dollar amount is approximately half of Los Angeles County (OC is about one-third the population of LA County).  The average single family home price compare in both counties.


Closed Volume
  $3,307,614,666 | +36.5%
Average Price
  $1,092,343 | +1.9%
Active Listings
  2,963 | -34.6%  (5,846 in June) 

Take note:  In both counties, months supply of inventory dropped over 35%, to less than 2 months, and at the peak in May, inventory supply was not over 4 months supply.  In both counties, houses sold within 2% of the original asking price, so overall housing market prices are holding steadily.

For an evaluation of your home, condo, or residential unit property, please contact me by phone, email or text for for information on your property.

Data provided by InfoSparks, CRMLS.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Snapshot Market Review of Long Beach Nov. 2019

Long Beach in November

According to data from CAR, there were fewer active listings in November compared to one year before, but an increase in sales compared to one year before., and an increase in median price.  But there's also one-third of the active listings with reduced prices, suggesting that more sales occur from reduced prices! Although this chart doesn't reflect a breakdown, the higher priced luxury listings are lagging and are more likely to have price reductions,  compared to the non-luxury listings.

The Report for Los Angeles County shows similar trends: increase in home sales, increase in median price, decrease in active listings and similar percentage of inventory with reduced price.

Los Angeles County in November

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Time to Update Your Home Appliances for Water Conservation

Jan. 1 2019 deadline

Do you live in a condo, or own a multi-family property built before 1994? Or are you improving or remodeling a property?  It's now time to make changes as of January 1, 2019.

Beginning in 2017, all single family homes were required in California to install water conserving plumbing fixtures, i.e., most commonly faucets, showerheads and toilets.

And what exactly are the requirements? SB407 puts it this way, so look for toilets (really, they've been on the market for a long time now) that are not more than 1.6 gpf, and so on:

“Noncompliant plumbing fixture” means any of the following:

(1) Any toilet manufactured to use more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush.

(2) Any urinal manufactured to use more than one gallon of water per flush.

(3) Any showerhead manufactured to have a flow capacity of more than 2.5 gallons of water per minute.

(4) Any interior faucet that emits more than 2.2 gallons of water per minute."

Here is the link to the law on plumbing fixtures replacement as passed in 2009 which set the deadlines and requirements for California properties:  SB 407

But what if you sell your condo or house and you haven't complied with the law yet? Just be aware that the seller must disclose to the best of his/her knowledge if such fixtures have or have not been installed.  The lack of such fixtures is not a condition of sale according to the law, but you will still be in violation of the law, and the buyer may really wish for the seller to take care of this before the close of escrow, it all  depends.

But considering years of water drought, and the necessity of cutting back on water usage throughout the state, it's really best to comply with the law--everyone has been given 10 years!!

Also, cities may have stricter standards than what the state requires, so check your local municipality, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, which do have point of sale requirements.

At this point I'm not aware that Long Beach has more stringent requirements than the state.  The City is, however, offering a rebate if you give up your 1.6 gpf toilet and get a .8 gpf toilet http://www.lbwater.org/Rebates -- see a list to download on approved fixtures.  More information on the City's water program is currently on their website: http://www.lbwater.org/Residential%20Conservation

 See prior post:  2017 post on low-flow toilets

Lastly, for more complete information, I will be happy to share a complete up-to-date posting from California Association of Attorneys legal section about this law, to clarify any questions about how to negotiate with your buyer on this subject, and more.  Just call or email me with your specific question and contact information. If it turns out I think you're a non-California property owner in China, I'm probably not going to respond.☺

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

California Housing Market Forecast for 2018

The 2018 California Association of Realtors Housing Market Forecast was released at this month's annual trade show. 

As low housing supply and affordability constraints continue, the 2018 California market is expected to have a "nominal increase" over 2017, up to 4.2% increase in median price, and mortgage rates for 30 yr fixed rate mortgage going to 4.3%.

The proposed tax reforms under the Trump Administration are projected to lead to fewer sales, by 3.4%, accompanied by a decline in home values due to homeowner reluctance to put house on market as homeownership advantages disappear for homebuyers.  The housing supply could drop by 1.5% in the first year if this tax reform is implemented.

At the present, however, the California median price continues to rise, with the statewide median price at $565,330.  This is still not up to the overall market peak in May of 2007 of $594,230.  Orange County, however, has exceed that peak price by 1.8%, the only area in Southern California to do so.  In the Bay Area, five counties have exceed the peak 2007 price by as much as 42% (San Francisco). 
Housing inventory has declined everywhere, with the most inventory in the multi-million dollar market.  The California housing turnover rate is less than the U.S. rate for single family homes--longtime homeowners are staying put for reasons including capital gains hits, and "where can I afford to go"?  Another housing supply problem are the number of single family homes converted to rentals, in San Francisco estimated to be between 400,000 and 700,000 homes formerly owner occupied but now rented.

Housing affordability in California is now at 29%, and 28% for Los Angeles County, 21% for Orange County. 

• Median age for buyers - 45
• Median age for sellers - 57
• One-third of transactions sold above asking price, 6 out of 10 had multiple offers.
• The majority of first time and repeat buyers are in Southern California.
• Fewer international buyers, fewer buyers from China.
• Net cash gain to sellers highest since 2006.
• More sellers are moving out of California, but 38% are staying in the same county.
• List to sell ratio in Southern California at 98.9%.
• Lack of inventory considered one of the biggest challenges for the 2018 market, affordability another challenge.  Total sales are projected to be only 1% higher than 2017.

For the complete presentation pdf, go to http://www.juliahuntsman.com/market-trends-report.html, where, by the way, you can also search for your new home or get an estimated value report on your existing one.

Average Selling Prices in Long Beach, Cerritos, Lakewood, and Orange County, August 2017

Prices are still going up, and here's what they look like locally.
For a single family detached home, the average prices in this group range from $579,687 to $1,019,768.

Overall the Los Angeles County average price for single family home is $905,787, a decrease from the previous month of $955,973.

All these prices are for the month of August, 2017, based on data from CRMLS.

Both Long Beach and Lakewood saw average price decreases from July, and Orange County is up slightly from July 2017, while Los Angeles County as a whole decreased from August's $955,973 in July.  San Bernardino County average has increased slightly since July, still under $360,000.

August 2017

Long Beach
$686,728 | +8.4%

Lakewood
$579,687 | +9.1%

Cerritos
$773,835 | +9.1%

Los Angeles County
$905,787 | +5.4%

San Bernardino County
$357,482 | +7.0%

Orange County
$1,019,768 | +4.9%

This statistic show a mix of pricing, with Long Beach/Lakewood and Cerritos having less than 30 days on the market on average, approximately 2 months inventory, and closing within 1-2% of original price.

Keeping an eye on things

For an online and automated home valuation, try my site at http://www.juliahuntsman.com/home-evaluation.  It probably works more accurately for single family homes than condos in some areas, depending on what properties lie within about a one-mile radius.  Try it!  And I am always happy to do a more customized report to send out via e-mail.  If you're thinking about making a move, do it! It pays to keep an eye on things.

Average Selling Prices in Long Beach, Cerritos, Lakewood, and Orange County, July 2017

 

Prices are still going up, and here's what they look like locally.

For a single family detached home, the average prices in this group range from $586,928 to $1,003,739, which represent increases between 1.3%-13.2% over June prices.

Overall the Los Angeles County average price for single family home is $956,939, an increase from the previous month (the median price is $610,000 for July).

All these prices are for the month of July, 2017, based on data from CRMLS.

Orange County as a whole has slowed to just over 1.3% from last month while Los Angeles County as a whole increased over 11% in July.  The areas with more lower priced homes (relatively speaking) are seeing bigger increases than Orange County, with overall higher priced homes, with a smaller percentage increase.

July 2017

Long Beach
$705,682 | +13.2%

Lakewood
$586,928 | +12.1%

Cerritos
$757,438 | +4.5%

Los Angeles County
$956,939 | +11.0%

San Bernardino County
$355,603 | +3.1%

Orange County
$1,003,739 | +1.3%

How much higher will things go?  Unknown, but as long as the interest rates are lower, and buyers are able to find sources for down payment funds, the end is not in sight according to many market experts.

If a buyer were interested in the average selling price of $350,000 for a house, then San Bernardino County (average at $355,000 in July) and the Inland Empire would be the place to search in Southern California, and Northern California in many counties, excluding the Bay Area, would hold some similar opportunities.

For an online and automated home valuation, try my site at http://www.juliahuntsman.com/home-evaluation.  It probably works more accurately for single family homes than condos in some areas, depending on what properties lie within about a one-mile radius.  Try it!  And I am always happy to do a more customized report to send out via e-mail.  If you're thinking about making a move, do it! The future is yours.

Average Selling Prices in Long Beach, Cerritos, Lakewood, and Orange County, June 2017

Prices are going up, and here's what they look like locally.  For a single family detached home, the average prices in this group range from $575,786 to $770,826, and for overall comparison to Orange County at over $1 million, they're obviously somewhat lower.  Overall Los Angeles County average price is $918,450 (the median price is $632,000 for June).  All these prices are for the month of June, 2017, based on data from CRMLS

One characteristic to note is that Orange County as a whole has increased just over 4%, Los Angeles County has a whole has increased over 9% in June.  The areas with more lower priced homes (relatively speaking) are seeing bigger increases than Orange County, with overall higher priced homes, with a smaller percentage increase.
How much higher will things go?  Unknown, but as long as the interest rates are lower, and buyers are able to find sources for down payment funds, the end is not in sight according to many market experts. The Federal Reserve, however, is expected to raise rates one more time this year.

"But while interest rates will increase to an estimated 5% by the end of 2018 and 6% by the end of 2019, most economists expect home price growth will also slow to between 2% and 4% once rates begin to rise."

If a buyer were interested in the average selling price of $350,000 for a house, then San Bernardino County and the Inland Empire would be the place to search in Southern California, and Northern California in many counties, excluding the Bay Area, would hold some similar opportunities.

For an online and automated home valuation, try my site at http://www.juliahuntsman.com/home-evaluation.  It probably works more accurately for single family homes than condos in some areas, depending on what properties lie within about a one-mile radius.  Try it!  And I am always happy to do a more customized report to send out via e-mail.  If you're thinking about making a move, do something besides stare.

October/November Prices in Long Beach, Lakewood, Cerritos, Seal Beach

Happy December in Long Beach

In Los Angeles County, the median priced home in October, 2016 was $570,000 , up from $510,000 in October, 2015.

The current median single family home price is $513,520 for all of California, an increase of 7.3% statewide since the previous October. 

In the chart are median prices (the midpoint of all sales above and below that price) for Long Beach, Lakewood , Cerritos and Seal Beach single family homes from January 1, 2015 through December 13, 2016.  Seal Beach has decreased by 1.5% in that time; Cerritos has increased by 5%;  Lakewood has increased over 9% overall; Long Beach has increased 11%.


Current average price for a single family home - Long Beach $673,500; Cerritos - $706,453; Lakewood $5554,872; Seal Beach $951,544.
Average 2-bedroom condominium prices for all four cities range from $328,000 (Cerritos) to $391,000 (Long Beach). 

See the July post for prices

Affordability in the California Housing Market

With the improvement in the California housing market since the "bottom of the market" in 2009, affordability has changed.

California's housing affordability index is at 29 percent, meaning 29 percent of California's homebuyers can afford the median-priced home of $487,420, which is a statewide figure.  The required income is just over $98,000.  To compare, 38 percent of the California population makes an annual income of $78,000 or more.  While not all single buyers may fit this profile, couples able to use both incomes to qualify are more likely to suceed, especially in the lower-priced condo market in certain cities.

In spite of this affordability declining over time, it appears to have stabilized in the 30% range.  Has it affected sales volume? Apparently not, because sales volume has increased 5.7% since the same time last year.

Downtown Long Beach

Will gradually increasing interest rates affect California's housing market?  Hopefully not, if the economy and labor markets continue to stabilize or grow.

What is the Long Beach median single family home price doing?  Here are the latest citywide figures:




 Long Beach condo price for the citywide median price of under $350,000
is posted below:

Single Family Home Prices in Long Beach 90803 and the City of Long Beach

Single family home prices in the 90803 zip code (including Bluff Park, Belmont Shore, Naples, Belmont Heights) have, on average, ranged between $554,000 and $970,000 over the last three years. November 2011 and September 2014 are so far the two highest points on the scale. The majority of houses selling over $900,000 during 2014 in this zip code are mostly in Belmont Shore, next is The Peninsula, Bluff Park and the lower part of Belmont Heights.

MLS: RS1406706

A home in the price range may have 3 bedrooms, 2+ baths, about 2100 sq.ft. on the interior, was about 70-80 years old, and was typically on the market for about 80 days. The property at the right at 177 Glendora was actually on the market 203 days per CRMLS, and closed escrow on October 20, 2014 selling at $969,000.

If you would like more information about the value of your home in this area, or any other area, please contact me for an in-person or online valuation.  Online valuations are considered more general, but a reasonable estimate of value may be obtained by looking at similar sales within a certain range and size.   

What Does Homeowner Insurance Cover, or Not Cover?

What does your homeowners insurance cover? 

The short answer is: A basic homeowners insurance policy (called HO-1 in insurance lingo) covers your home and possessions if they’re damaged or destroyed by these things:

Fire
Lightning
Windstorm (unless you live in a hurricane zone)
Hail (not available everywhere)
Explosion
Riots
Civil commotion
Aircraft (and things falling from aircraft)
Vehicles (and things thrown from vehicles)
Smoke
Vandalism (although some policies exclude this)
Malicious mischief
Theft
Volcanic eruption.

But many states don’t allow this basic policy to be sold. Instead, you have to buy an upgraded policy that covers more perils.

Upgraded Homeowners Insurance

That upgraded policy (called HO-2) adds protection to your home and possessions from even more perils. You get protection from everything on the HO-1 list (above) plus:

In Long Beach, What Can You Buy Under $300,000?

There have been several articles talking about this price range in the last few years since the market downturn.  With both limited inventory, and an increase in the real estate market, there is a declining number of single family homes available under $300,000 in Long Beach, California.  There are 47 listings as of July 1 in this category, in various areas of Long Beach.  One of the best values in this range is really Windward Village, a secure planned unit development (PUD) park which offers open space and recreational facilities. 



Windward Village Home--Click on photo for info 

As of July 1, 2013 (check for any updated information) the home in the photo is listed in the MLS for $239,000, and at the listed 1600 sq. ft. for 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, is an unbelievable value. 

Windward Village homes may qualify for FHA, VA or conventional financing, and because it's a PUD, the new owner owns the land too.  Individual lot sizes vary from 2500 sq. ft to 3800 sq.ft., equal to or more than lot sizes in Belmont Shore.  While older models feature the carport style, newer models offer closed door garage parking.


Community Center

The complex has a 24-hour guard entry where all entrants are checked in by staff; there is a community center for activities and gatherings, an outdoor pool, grassy green areas, outdoor play areas for children, basketball  and tennis courts, car wash center, guest parking, and a putting green. For the unit shown above, the HOA dues are only $188/month.  Contrast that figure to the average condominium HOA fee of $250/month elsewhere in Long Beach, without all the recreational facilities.
Because these are manufactured home purchases, there are some differences from a regular single family home process which are normal to this type of purchase, such as the foundation system. But because it is a PUD and the owner owns their own land, there is absolutely no space rent, a monthly cost of $900 or more per month in similar complexes.

The common areas are very well kept with well-maintained and patrolled asphalt roads, and has the feel of a small single family residential community. It's a great opportunity while prices are still low, and nowhere else in Long Beach can you buy your own private home and have such advantages.

Please contact me about this complex!

Looking for a Home Plus Guest Quarters Under $350,000? It's Here!

This upgraded and remodeled single family home the Circle Area of Long Beach has a lot of advantages for a new homebuyer because there's so little work to do! 

Who wouldn't want the upgraded bathroom, and the new kitchen with granite counters and recessed lighting, complete with the cooktop range with downdraft feature? Hardwood floors, dual-paned windows and a roof (2005) in geat condition help a new buyer get settled quickly. 

Verizon FiOS is already installed for state-of-the-art connections.

The nicely landscaped yard is completely enclosed, and patio areas are paved with Saltillo tiles. The side yard is good for play area or a dog run.  And, though it's not permitted, there are additional guest quarters of approximately 175 sq. ft. with bathroom which makes a great office space or a third bedroom also!

Two-car garage with laundry hookups. For current listing price for 3100 Spaulding St.,  See listing here..

Please call me for more info!  Julia Huntsman, Broker, Lic #1188996

Note:  This listing is off market.