Christmas is over...now it's time for the RETURNS!

Hope everyone had a happy Christmas. Now that the gifts have been opened, the next step to wrapping up the holidays is to make all those returns... Yes, I know it can be a hassle to take back all those unwanted presents, especially when retailers don't want to take them back. However, to make returns easier on you and the retailer, here are some tips:

1. Gift Receipts- Make sure to give your recepient a gift receipt for the present. It makes it a lot easier for them to exchange the item for something else. If you're the one making the return, bring along your gift receipt. It makes the process faster because the store doesn't have to look up the item and make you fill out extra documentation.

2. Bring ID- Be ready to show your ID for your returns. With return fraud estimated at 14.8 billion last year, according to the National Retail Federation, retailers are pushing towards ID for all returns.

3. Know the return policy- Pay attention to the policy of the retailer. Some items are exchange only while others offer no refunds at all. Also, some stores set a limited time for which you can make your returns. Thus, if you miss the deadline, then the item is forever yours...So read the receipt or call the retailer directly to find out when you have to make the return by.

4. Go early- Personally, I have experienced better and faster service when I go to the store as soon as they open. There tends to be less crowds in the morning and the cashiers aren't burnt out by the time it's your turn in line to be helped.

Those are just a few tips to make those holiday returns go more smoothly. Remember, you can't avoid the returns so you might as well make the best of it. Goodluck!

The BEST GIFT for the holidays!

The U.S. economy may be getting the best gift of all this holiday season...

According to Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan preliminary index of consumer sentiment, confidence among U.S. consumers rose to 74.2 from 71.6 at the end of November. This is the highest level its been in the past 6 months. Consumers seem to be spending more and hesitating less. Now what could possibly be a better gift than a recovering economy?

Goodbye freeway...hello BULLET train!

Tired of driving from NorCal to SoCal? Well that may soon be a problem of the past because California is receiving more federal funding for the construction of a bullet train.

The Department of Transportation announced that it would be redirecting 624 million to California's high speed rail project, putting the state's total federal funding to 3.1 billion. The estimated cost to build a system that would link Sacramento and San Francisco to Los Angeles and San Diego is near 43 billion.

The question now is: how long will it take to build? Maybe we won't be saying goodbye to the freeways anytime soon...

For full article, visit: http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,2036197,00.html

Who says we don't have seasons in Los Angeles?

Took these photos while driving around Los Angeles...

Hope you enjoy this bit of Fall/Winter...

Musha Restaurant

424 Wilshire Boulevard Santa Monica, CA
Can you say mmMMackerel?! Musha is a small Japanese tapas style restaurant in Santa Monica with the most amazing seared mackerel. It's brought out to your table, the meat is thinly sliced, and the waiter comes and torches it in front of you O_o I went here with a friend and we each got our own fish, because it was too good to share. It's $11 per order, but BOY was it worth it!

The tofu fries are also good, crispy on the outside and soft inside...definitely refreshing from your typical potato fries. My friend and I also shared an order of croquettes which was decent, but not memorable. However the udon noodles with clams, garlic, and mushroom was YUMMY! The sauce was made perfect, not too salty and full of flavor from the clams and garlic. The noodles were chewy, not undercooked, so really nice texture :)

We ended the meal with apple tartin and vanilla icecream, which again was decent, but didn't really blow me out of the water.

Overall this is a cute little place hidden away from the promenade. It's not a good place if you're going with a big group because the space is small. I'd recommend going here on a date because it's cozy and the plates are made for sharing. Beware, it does get a bit busy during the dinner rush but it stays open until 11:30pm so you could come here after a nice walk on the pier a couple blocks down.


posted by Jennifer Nguyen

The coolest house on caravan!

822 N. Norman Pl., Los Angeles,

California

A warm and inviting mid-century architectural that exudes style and serenity, secluded from the street by lush landscaping. Conveniently located within walking distance of shops and restaurants.



The remodeled kitchen is a work of art with soaring 20-ft. ceilings opening to a zen bamboo garden and patio with period fountain.
The open flow from the living and dining rooms to the lawn and pool invites a real California lifestyle.

There are three family bedrooms and two baths plus a large custom office as well as a family/media room with fireplace and additional office on the first floor.


An elegant master suite with stunning bath and large walk-in closet is a peaceful oasis with its balcony overlooking the lush, private grounds and swimmers' pool.
There are three family bedrooms and two baths plus a large custom office as well as a family/media room with fireplace and additional office on the first floor.

Contact:
Mary Beth Woods- mwoods@marybethwoods.com
310-571-1358
Mickey Kessler-
mkessler@verizon.net
310-367-2322

Cyber Monday beats Black Friday report says

Searching for a new tool box? Hammer? From home products to clothes, online stores are offering it all and then some.

According to research firm Coremetrics, Cyber Monday pulled in 31.1% more online sales than Black Friday this year.

Coremetrics reported that Cyber Monday generated 19.4% more purchases than last year. Consumers seem to be more inclined to the convenience of online stores where you can shop wherever and whenever. The average online shopper spent about $194.89 according to Coremetrics.

As an additional bait, some companies often offer additional savings, extra freebies, and low to free shipping when you buy online. This after-Thanksgiving retail boost may just be what the economy needs!

For full article in the LA Times, visit http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2010/11/cyber-monday-black-friday-online-purchases-coremetrics.html

Just in! Morgage trends for 2011...

Some morgage trends to look out for according to Bankrate.com.

Bankrate asked a half-dozen mortgage professionals to weigh in on where housing is headed as 2010 comes to an end and 2011 begins. Here are some of their predictions:

1. Mortgage rates will stay low.

2. Foreclosure "overhang" possible.

3. Processing time will remain long.

4. Zero cost refinancing will look more attractive.


Want more info? You can visit: http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=26405117

Recent Sales in 90024 & 90025

Hi all! Here's the 411 on recent sales in Westwood...

*Does not include all areas in Westwood.

Have questions about your area? Feel free to contact me!

Home improvement tip #1

The first tip in home improvent:

Understand that the cost of a job may not get the equal amount in resale value later on.

If you're planning to spruce up your home, be aware that not all improvement jobs will get a big investment return when you decide to sell. In general, you will end up paying more for the job than what you will get back in return, which is about 16% less in value.

Check out the list for what job gives you the highest return on investment.

For more information on home renovation visit http://money.cnn.com/2010/11/16/real_estate/home_remodeling_costs/index.htm

Housing in California now MORE affordable!

Good news everyone! As featured in the Los Angeles Times, housing affordability in California is on a rise, meaning more buyers could afford a standard home in the fabulous Golden State. For more details and information, check out the LA Times link provided below.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/money_co/2010/11/housing-affordability-on-the-rise.html

I Have A New Listing in Beverly Glen! Check Out This Exciting Condo Alternative. . .

OPEN TODAY 1-4 PM! For those of you looking for a condo, but secretly wishing that you could buy a home on the Westside in the same price range, check out my new listing at 1260 Fernbush Lane in Beverly Glen. List Price $679,000!!!

For showings and more information contact Mickey Kessler at 310-367-2322 or mkessler@verizon.net

THE COOLEST HOUSE ON CARAVAN!

1278 Angelo Drive

This newly built Mid Century-inspired Contemporary estate is spectacular on so many levels. The home has great natural light, very high ceilings and truly breath-taking views. You may have seen homes with an infinity pool, but an infinity spa? It's a feel-good home; great energy and style. The only short-coming (and in my mind it's not a major concern), is getting to the home. Like most view properties, it takes a bit of a drive up into the hills to reach a property with such a view. In addition, the last section of Angelo drive leading to the property is steep and and a bit winding and narrow, but once you're there it is more than worth it!

(Per the MLS) Dazzling ground-up new construction by the renowned architectural firm of Shortridge & Associates, AIA. This ultra-sophisticated home exquisitely showcases the use of brick, walnut, and concrete walls and floors. Soaring Ceilings and frame-less glass windows and doors allow for unobstructed panoramic views of Los Angeles. Gourmet Arclinea kitchen, media room, large open living and dining rooms. Enormous master suite with sitting/office area and balcony. Three additional luxurious bedroom suites. 4.5 baths. Infinity pool and large outdoor entertaining area. All details and finishes are of the highest quality and design. Sensational!

For showings and more information contact Steve Frankel of Coldwell Banker at 310-278-4100 or Mickey Kessler of Coldwell Banker at 310-367-2322.



Submitted to The Westwoodian by Mickey Kessler

The Coolest House on Caravan!

3921 Scadlock Lane, Sherman Oaks

List Price $799,000

This charming, yet stylish Mid-Century architectural home was new on the market at Tuesdays Brokers open house. It has high ceiling and many walls of glass making for a home with abundant natural light and volume. I think this was the best value I saw on Caravan yesterday and I believe it will sell soon, likely with multiple offers so don't wait!



Per TheMLS:
Sited on a generous, quiet lot, this quintessential three-bedroom two-bath mid-century home, designed by Pollack & Kahn, exudes warmth and sophistication reminiscent of homes of the era. The open plan seamlessly connects the living and dining rooms, which are complemented by cork floors and a fireplace. The kitchen features CaesarStone counters, stainless appliances and custom cabinetry. Walls of glass and clerestory windows discreetly merge the indoors with the outdoor gardens, sitting areas and city views below.

For showings or more information please contact Mickey Kessler of Coldwell Banker at 310-442-1398 or Mkessler@verizon.net, or the listing agents: Billy Rose and Blair Chang of Prudential California Realty at 310-777-7800.

Honorable mention goes to 10259 Rochester Ave. in Westwood. Listed for $1,075,000, the home could use some updating (baths, kitchen), but it is charming and has good charcter with hardwood floors, etc. It is priced like a fixer, however it is in "somewhat" move-in condition, and although by no means luxurious, I think it's a very good value.

For showings or more information please contact Mickey Kessler of Coldwell Banker at 310-442-1398 or Mkessler@verizon.net, or the listing agent: Jan Reichman of Coldwell Banker at 310-278-4100

THE COOLEST HOUSE ON CARAVAN

Tuesday, July 13 2010

11500 Orum Rd.

Bel Air

Hampton in Bel Air! this fantastic property rests at the end of a secluded cul-de-sac on a private knoll overlooking all of Los Angeles. Spectacular 180 degree views from downtown to the ocean. Includes 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, great room, beautiful gourmet kitchen, huge media/family room & guest house. Gated & private this magnificent home has been totally renovated with top quality throughout. Features a large motor court, huge flat grassy yard & sparkling pool. This is a very special property! (per Themls)

What most impressed me about this home is its expansive sense of openness, combined with a feeling of privacy, a rare combination. The house is perfectly placed on the property, with great outlooks from nearly every room and the back yard is very well planned, both landscape and hard scape. A very pleasant breeze was rising up over the bluff when I visited the home.






As you can see from the photos that this home is finished with quality materials, it has great natural lighting and is very inviting. Not at all austere or imposing, this home lives very luxuriously and is well suited for formal events, yet one could feel equally comfortable putting their feet up on the living room table, or curling up on the couch. It must be a joy to entertain at this home. The home has a great view of the Getty, however my favorite aspect of the is the wide unobstructed expanse it takes in. You really have to experience it first hand. (per MK) For showings or more information please contact Mickey Kessler of Coldwell Banker at 310-442-1398 or Mkessler@verizon.net, or the listing agents: Jana Jones Duffy and Fred Holley of Coldwell Banker at 310-285-7535 or 310-285-751.

CLASSIC SPANISH HOME! OPEN SUNDAY MARCH 28th 2-5 PM!

Classic Spanish 2 bed/1.5 bath home offering tremendous square footage for the price! Original detail and character are preserved in pristine condition featuring: wood floors, coved ceilings, rolled archways, classic tile and moldings. Formal entry opens to huge step-down living room with high, beamed ceiling with wood trusses, wood-burning fireplace, arched picture window.

Enjoy the Sun-filled formal dining rm with 2 skylights & walk-in china closet/pantry. Huge family room addition w/ high, beamed ceilings. Master bedroom featuring walk-in & wardrobe closets. Service porch w/ extra storage opens to covered patio & large, private yard.

Other features incl: great closet space, ceiling fans throughout, extra insulation, retrofit bolted found, copper plumbing (almost throughout, per seller) & home orchard. Serene, mid-block location, flexible floor plan allows for easy addition of 3rd BR & 2nd full bath (see floor-plan in photos). Westwood Charter School.

For more information please contact Mickey Kessler of Coldwell Banker at 310-367-2322 or email at mkessler@verizon.net.

Tomato Mania is Back!

It's that time of year again. Spring is here and with the change of season it is time to start planting my vegetable garden and my garden would not be complete without tomatoes. If you've grown tomatoes previously and would like to expand your horizons when it comes to varieties of tomatoes or, if you have never grown tomatoes and would like to give it a try, I highly recommend a visit to Tomato Mania this weekend in Encino.

Tomato Mania is a wonderful festival devoted to the endless variety and joy of growing tomatoes. The event takes place in Encino at Tapia Brothers farm, located at 5251 Hayvenhurst Avenue in Encino, phone-(818)905-6155 and runs from this Friday, March 26th through Sunday March 28th.

If you've never grown tomatoes because you think it will require too much work, effort and/or space, let me tell you that tomatoes are surprisingly easy to grow and don't require nearly as much effort, space and attention as you might expect. They can be grown successfully in ground, in pots or containers, they don't require frequent watering and home-grown tomatoes taste incredible! Far superior to anything you can buy at the market. All things considered, the only requirement needed to grow most varieties of tomatoes is a sunny location.

Tomatos come in two plant types, determinate and indeterminate. Determinate plants are typically smaller bush-shaped plants of a manageable size. One popular feature of determinate varieties is that many strains are well-suited for growing in containers and pots. Indeterminate tomatoes, on the other hand grow on long rambling vines and for that reason, are typically grown in ground.

Many tomatoes are hybrid varieties. These are tomatoes that have been commercially bred to perform well in commercial farms. They are bred to be hardy, disease resistant, productive plants bearing sturdy, consistent, well-formed fruits of very acceptable flavor. Some hybrid varieties are: Big Boy, Beef Steak, Early Girl, Celebrity and Patio. Heirloom tomatoes on the other hand, are grown from seeds that have been handed down from generation to generation, often from small farms and independent growers from all over the world. Heirloom tomatoes are known for their wide array of colors, shapes, sizes and wonderfully distinct flavors. Some examples of heirlooms are Brandywine, Cherokee Purple, Mortgage Lifter, Green Zebra and Moskvich.

Whether you decide to plant determinate or indeterminate, heirloom or hybrid, most all varieties grow pretty much like weeds. Typically, they don't require watering more than 2-3 times per week and they don't typically require additional feedings, fertilization or nutrients to produce great tomatoes. In fact, tomatoes tend to grow at their best when they are not being overly pampered. The only additional advice I would offer is plant your tomatoes deep in the ground. A unique feature of tomato plants is that they are able to root off their stem. With that in mind, plant them deep enough in the soil such that you are leaving just 3-4 inches of top growth above ground. Oh, and cut off any branches that will be below the soil line. This will make for a larger root system and a stronger plant.

By the way, If you can't make it to Tomato Mania this weekend, another great resource for tomatoes and every other gardening need is Green Arrow Nursery, located at 8845 North Sepulveda Blvd., North Hills, phone- (818)894-8301 (located a few blocks north of Roscoe Blvd.). They offer a huge variety of heirloom and hybrid tomato plants as well as an exceptional selection of vegetable and herb plants and fruit trees and bushes. They also sport an knowledgeable staff who provide expert advice and information (ask for Cindy for vegetables and Mike for fruit trees).

I wish you a wonderful spring season and I encourage you all to celebrate spring the best way I know how. . . Go outside and grow something!

New Townhouse Listing in Westwood! 10793 Ashton Ave. Unit #3

List Price- $865,000

This is an extensively upgraded three bedroom townhome with over $250,000 of improvements (per Seller). It features a huge living room and eat-in kitchen with bamboo floors. The kitchen also features a Viking stove/oven, Caesar stone counters with glass tile backsplash, glass front cabinets, Bosch dishwasher and more.

The master suite has bamboo floors as well and also features high ceilings, a built-in work station, remodeled bath with double porcelain sinks, steam shower with Carrera marble and a walk-in closet with custom wood drawers. There are two additional bedrooms, a loft and over-sized roof deck.

The living room opens to a remodeled flag stone patio with tropical gardens. The unit is climate controlled by central air and heating system and the secure garage features side-by-side parking and extra storage. This listing is located in the Fairburn Avenue school district.

This is a very special townhome that you won't want to miss. For more information, photos and showings, contact Mickey Kessler of Coldwell Banker at 310-367-2322.