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December 22, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post, News

According to CNN, “The housing market hasn’t bottomed out yet. For the third quarter, the closely-watched S&P Case-Shiller national home-price index fell 16.6%, and experts are predicting further declines. Of the top 100 markets, here are 10 with the worst forecasts.” And out of those 10, 8 of them are in California. This isn’t news … Continue reading 8 out of 10 Worst RE Markets for 2009 in California →

November 27, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

When IrvineRenter approached us to write a review about his book I almost said no. Although I still follow the local housing market closely I really didn’t have the time nor energy to keep up with all the housing blogs. A week or so passed and the book came in the mail and just sat … Continue reading The Great Housing Bubble →

September 17, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Things have not improved. Our buddies are Meryll, once snotty and too important to hang out with us, are now asking for employment applications. That is on top of the phone calls we keep getting from ex-Lehman guys.  Anyways, this is a great summary of the current housing situation. Enjoy! Home values plunge in Southern … Continue reading Quick Update- August 2008 →

September 3, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

First of all, I want to apologize to everyone for not blogging the last couple of days. A crisis had erupted at work and we’re all scrambling to keep the company from collapsing. Some of you know that I work for a real estate development firm. Unlike public giants such as KB Homes or Lennar, my … Continue reading Crisis on the Homefront →

September 3, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

We are currently looking for 1-2 more authors that would like to write for AHB. It can be once a week, once a month or even daily (if that interests you). Please email me if you’re interested: thearcadian@arcadiahousingblog.com.

August 29, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Back in February we profiled a series of empty McMansions in Arcadia. Most of them were brand new, big and overpriced. After a total of 217 days on the market, the following McMansion on 8th Street finally sold. Original listing price: $2,980,000 ($398/sf) Final sales price on 6/12/08: $2,600,000 ($347/sf) The 13% price reduction might … Continue reading **Update** Empty McMansion #2 – SOLD! →

August 28, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Today we have two properties that could not be more different. One is a 69 year old “sold as-is” home located in the Northern hills of Arcadia. It isn’t a flattering place but you supposedly get a “Great city light view”. The second property is a typical 5,100sf McMansion located near Longden and Baldwin Ave. … Continue reading Tale of Two Properties →

August 26, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

1235 Magnolia Ct. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $1,800,000 ($418/sf) Beds: 5 Baths: 4.5 Sq. Ft.: 4,304 Lot Size: 10,729 Sq. Ft. This McMansion is part of a new 5-home cul-de-sac located East of 10th Ave. and near the Monrovia borderline: It is so far from the other McMansion neighborhoods that these 4,000+ square foot properties … Continue reading $1.8MM McMansion near Monrovia →

August 25, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Below are the July 2008 home sales figures for Arcadia and a couple surrounding cities.   CITY HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE YOY CHANGE ARCADIA 76 $633,000 -9.57% TEMPLE CITY 35 $550,000 -8.18% MONROVIA 37 $488,000 -9.96% PASADENA 117 $510,000 -23.52% SOUTH PASADENA 13 $750,000 -11.76% SAN MARINO 14 $1,191,500 -22.38%   **Edit: Added Sierra Madre** … Continue reading July 2008 Home Sales →

August 22, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

Redfin has an excellent feature called “Inventory and Housing Trends.” The data is city-specific and gives us a good idea of where home prices are heading. The data below is specifically for Arcadia, California and basically supports what we’ve been stating all along. Arcadia home prices are under heavy pressure from increasing inventory, rising foreclosures … Continue reading Arcadia Housing Trends – 1st half of 2008 →

August 21, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

1030 Heritage Oaks Dr. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $1,098,000 ($336/sf) Beds: 6 Baths: 4 Sq. Ft.: 3,265 Lot Size: 10,220 Sq. Ft. Year Built: 1976 At first this property seemed like a decent deal assuming you can knock $100-200k off the asking price. A 6 bedroom SFR for $336/sf? Seems like a steal in this … Continue reading Location location location →

August 20, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

123 Eldorado St #A Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $589,000 ($405/sf) Beds: 3 Baths: 2.5 Sq. Ft.: 1,453 Property Type Attached, Townhouse OWNER PURCHASED THIS PROPERTY AT YEAR 2005 FOR $575,000 AND SPENT $20,000 TO UPGRADE KITCHEN COUNTER TOP, CABINETS, HARDWOOD/TILE FLOOR AND GARAGE FLOOR. THIS IS PRICED TO SELL. Here’s a seller hoping to get … Continue reading Priced to Sell or Priced to Sit? →

August 19, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

The following property is profiled by the request of one of our readers. It seems like many people are attracted to these PUD/townhomes. If you’re not into yard maintenance, driveways or require large lots to entertain with, then I suppose this is the perfect property for you! 901 Holly Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $888,000 … Continue reading $888k – Lucky enough to find a knife catcher? →

August 16, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

1061 Fallen Leaf Rd. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $4,998,000 ($643/sf) Beds: 7 Baths: 7.25 Sq. Ft.: 7,769 (8,000sf+ incl. guest house) Lot size: 1.05 Acres There’s not much to say about this property. The home is big, the lot is huge and the price… just under $5,000,000. With 1 acre of land to work with, … Continue reading $5,000,000 on Fallen Leaf →

August 15, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

1535 Loganrita Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $700,000 ($393/sf) Beds: 3 Baths: 2 Sq. Ft.: 1,779 Lot Size: 0.31 Acres This is a new listing so no pictures have been posted yet. Fortunately, we won’t need photos to see how this story will unfold. The property is East of 10th Ave. and borderline Monrovia. In … Continue reading $700k and 4 blocks from Monrovia →

August 14, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

315 N. Oxford Dr. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $980,000 ($463/sf) Beds: 2 Baths: 2 Sq. Ft.: 2,117 Lot Size: 14,680sf Today’s property is a short-sale listing for $120,000 more than its 2006 purchase of $860,000. I’m certain that the buyer went through the following thought process: Purchase this fixer-upper with 100% financing. Borrow more money … Continue reading Short Sale on Oxford – 100% financing to failure →

August 13, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

On August 8th, 2008, we received the following comment from “bwrealestate@yahoo.com”. I can only guess that he/she is a Realtor: You all are idiots, I have a buyer for this property…and no way to contact you. Great idea, complain, complain…but offer and do nothing effective. Thanks Your worthless. The comment was left on my 300 … Continue reading It’s Official: AHB is Worthless →

August 12, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

For a while now I have estimated that Arcadia home prices will drop down to $250/sf for low-end condos, $300-350/sf for average single family homes and $400/sf in the most desirable neighborhoods. Of course, there are factors such at views, large lots, gated communities and property age that will command a premium beyond $400/sf. Let’s … Continue reading And the prices come tumbling… →

August 9, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Let’s forget housing for a weekend. Get off the internet, turn on NBC and root for your country.

August 8, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

*** EPIC FAILURE – I profiled the following property and praised it for being priced correctly. Unfortunately, some other listings have convinced me that this is a 55+ senior condo complex. If that is really the case, then $383,900 is probably near the highest this property would go for. *** 1126 W Duarte Rd #5 … Continue reading $383k REO Condo on Duarte →

August 7, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

587 Fairview Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $400,000 ($350/sf) Beds: 2 Baths: 2 Sq. Ft.: 1,144 Lot Size: Attached, Condominium This is part of the whole community of condos and apartments on the South-side of Huntington Dr. and Baldwin Ave. It’s not exactly a flattering property and $400,000 is definitely a wishing price. Add in … Continue reading $150k Overpriced Condo →

August 6, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

220 E Sycamore Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $887,000 ($435/sf) Beds: 4 Baths: 2.5 Sq. Ft.: 2,038 Lot Size: 0.27 Acres Today’s featured profile is at the request of an AHB reader. If you are ever interested in a property, feel free to shoot me a email with the address and Redfin link. I won’t … Continue reading 48 Years of Ownership – $887k Equity →

August 5, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

330 W. NAOMI Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $3,680,000 ($451/sf) Beds: 7 Baths: 7.5 Sq. Ft.: 8,166 Lot Size: 0.59 Acres Words cannot describe what I feel abou this property. Although I can understand why your multi-millionaire dollar celebraties and sport stars would buy an 8,000sf+ mansion/estate, why would anyone spend $3.6MM on a McMansion … Continue reading 8,000sf McMansion – Makes me cry →

August 2, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

The housing crisis we are facing today is without precedent. Although there have been many housing bubbles in the past, the mess we got ourselves into this time will go into the history books as giant Wall Street financial institutions go from billion-dollar companies to being worth… nothing. I have said several times that as … Continue reading Back to the Fundementals →

August 1, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Before we get started on the next post, I just wanted to point out the Comment Tracker on the right-side of this site. It has been reset to reflect on the current month’s comments. It’s more for entertainment than anything else but perhaps SavedbyGrace will reward the monthly top commenter(s) with some free goodies. **Our … Continue reading REO NOT priced to sell at $221/sf →

July 31, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

41 E Winnie Way Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $850,000 ($546/sf) Beds: 3 Baths: 1.75 Sq. Ft.: 1,557 Lot Size: 8,100 Sq. Ft. This is a fairly decent starter home built in 1956. While it lacks the charm or extravagance of newer properties, you get adequate living area, privacy and some upgraded features. Unfortunately, the $850,000 … Continue reading No Poo for Winnie – 100% Return after 5 years? →

July 30, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

2222 S. 2nd Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $2,888,000 ($414/sf) Beds: 5 Baths: 5.5 Sq. Ft.: 6,981(!) Lot Size: 0.38 Acres Today’s new listing is a 6,981sf McMansion sprawled across a 1/3 acre piece of land. The description calls it a “Gorgeous Luxury Custom Built Estate.” Of course, we all know that this “custom home” … Continue reading 7,000sf McMansion in Arcadia →

July 29, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

48 W Le Roy Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $1,300,000 ($754/sf) Beds: 4 Baths: 2 Sq. Ft.: 1,725 Lot Size: 0.44 Acres This seller did not provide any photos so I’m unable to comment on the physical condition of the home.  All we have for now is a street photo (above) and the following description: … Continue reading $1.3MM for Land →

July 25, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis, Inventory

The June 2008 housing numbers are in so I’ll leave these up over the weekend. We’ve gone ahead and compiled the figures for the entire first half of 2008. I would love to here your thoughts! Arcadia Homes Sales Data Something tells me that this trend will continue for the rest of the year. This … Continue reading Bi-Annual Sales Report →

July 24, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

605 Lorena Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $695,000 ($363/sf) Beds: 4 Baths: 3 Sq. Ft.: 1,915 Lot Size: 4,918 Sq. Ft. I’ll great straight to it. This is a 32 year old freeway-loaded property. It is definitely in need of some TLC… no, scratch that. This home needs a complete renovation. Did I mention that … Continue reading A freeway-loaded Lorena →

July 23, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

For those who enjoy the Victorian style homes, here’s a special one; a 4,693sf single story property sitting on .41 acres. It was remodeled in 2002 and it looks to be in great condition inside and out. 1910 S 2nd Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $1,380,000 ($294/sf) Beds: 4 Baths: 4 Sq. Ft.: 4,693 Lot … Continue reading 13 years of depreciation →

July 22, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Today’s new listing is a property that, for the right price, would be a decent home. Although it backs up against Michillinda, you get decent living space, a 10,400sf lot and what looks like a floor plan that can be worked with. Of course, the asking price of $788,000 rubbish…. 1151 Drake Rd. Arcadia, CA … Continue reading The price is NOT right on Drake →

July 21, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

2 E Longden Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $799,000 ($519/sf) Beds: 3 Baths: 2 Sq. Ft.: 1,539 Lot Size: 8,370 Sq. Ft. During a normal housing market, rundown properties could be bought for cheap and flipped for a premium after proper rennovations. When we’re in a frenzy bubble era, “flipping” usually meant buying a home … Continue reading Flipping into trouble on Longden →

July 18, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Today’s homeowner is left holding the bag and desperately needs to sell the it before his 20% downpayment is gone. No pictures have been provided but the aerial photo is all we need to see… 344 W Foothill Blvd. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $1,775,000 ($685.sf) Beds: 3 Baths: 3.25 Sq. Ft.: 2,590 Lot Size: 1.14 … Continue reading $1.775MM for land. Really sucky land. →

July 17, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

I have no doubt that the following property could have sold for nearly $1MM back in 2006. Fast forward two years later and we have an owner who believes he can still get $888k for a property purchased for half a million dollars less just 9 years ago. 1317 Holly Ave Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: … Continue reading Arcadia will see additional 30% declines →

July 16, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

There is a popular saying among wannabe real estate gurus, There is nothing you can buy in desirable Los Angeles cities that will cashflow. Maybe they are right. Maybe they are wrong? How low will this property have to drop in order to align itself with comparable rental rates? 1022 W Duarte Rd #13 Arcadia, … Continue reading When will townhomes cashflow? →

July 15, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

1160 W Orange Grove Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $3,000,000 ($875/sf) Beds: 3 Baths: 3 Sq. Ft.: 3,427 Lot Size: 1.3 Acres This home has a lot going for it: 1.3 acre lot, large 1-story home, 1,100sf guest house and the desirable Santa Anita Oaks community (aka “Upper Rancho”). This is as close as an … Continue reading A whole lot of land on Orange Grove →

July 14, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post, Property Profiles

Condos and townhomes are attractive to home buyers because they offer more living square footage per dollar and generally require less exterior maintenance. This is perfect for those who have no desire to maintain a 3,000sf yard or worry about landscaping. Of course, the responsibility of maintenance in condos is paid through HOA fees; so … Continue reading Evaluation of Townhomes →

July 11, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

It was by coincidence that I  profiled 4 freeway-loaded properties this week. We did not go out of our way to find them and they are all new or refreshed listings. So it did not surprise me to find another unfortunate seller on the market. 13 days running… any guess when the first price drop … Continue reading The Great Freeway Phenomenon →

July 10, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Two days ago I profiled a decent property on Oxford Drive that was overpriced by $200k. Today we have a home on the same street. It lacks the charm and desirability but asking for over $500 per square feet. 481 Oxford Dr. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $850,000 ($502 per sq. ft.) Beds: 3 Baths: 2 … Continue reading Knife catcher on Oxford →

July 9, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Some of you might think that I purposely seek out undesirable overpriced properties in Arcadia for the sake of bashing them. This is absolutely not the case. SavedbyGrace and I have profiled many homes that we love along with highlighting some of the best neighborhoods in the city. It just so happens that while many … Continue reading Freeway loaded. Kool-aid loaded. →

July 8, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

348 Oxford Dr. Arcadia, CA 91007 Price: $990,000 ($430 per sq. ft.) Beds: 3 Baths: 1.75 Sq. Ft.: 2,300 Lot Size: 0.32 Acres I really like this home, its ranch design and location. Although the property is sitting on a third of an acre, the 2,300sf home is built in such a way that it … Continue reading Uninformed on Oxford →

July 7, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

303 Joyce Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $999,000 ($301 per sq. ft.) Beds: 4 Baths: 5 Sq. Ft.: 3,324 Lot Size: 8,999 Sq. Ft. At first glance, this home seems like a great deal. $1MM for a 3,324sf “custom-built” 2003 McMansion. Aside from the usual overbuilt living area, this owner opted for more garage space: … Continue reading McMansion for $301/sf →

July 5, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

We snuck into San Marino last night to check out Lacy Park’s annual fireworks show. From what I’ve heard, there are residents who camp out for the event 24 hours in advanced. The entire city must have congregated here because parking was horrible, there was a strong police presence and people were walking everywhere. Lacy … Continue reading Enjoying a July 4th Weekend →

July 4, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

What is your $5MM dream home? Would it be an ocean-view Mediterranean Villa in Newport Coast? Perhaps you’re a Hollywood star and prefer a modest 2 acre Malibu estate? For the city dwellers, Los Angeles’ Avenue of the Stars offer many luxury high-rise condos. Of course, if you love the San Gabriel Valley, its “city … Continue reading $5.8MM… in Monrovia?? →

July 3, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

San Marino. A city known for its large lots, strict zoning laws, specific architectural design standards and the intent on keeping things the way they are. This is the city that people always compare South Pasadena to, but never the other way around. If you want to talk about old money, new money and foreign … Continue reading Arcadia vs San Marino – $1MM →

July 2, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Yesterday we got a taste of desirable South Pasadena and its $1MM homes versus Arcadia’s. Today, let’s pull a 180 turn and check out $1MM properties on the other side of town. Yes, even though I often bash Monrovia due to its recent crime problems and school ranking performance, some 37,000+ people still call it … Continue reading Arcadia vs Monrovia – $1MM →

July 1, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Part of my job task involves visiting new tract home developments and posing as a buyer. One day I am a single guy looking to blow money on a million dollar high rise condo; another I am a husband in desperate need of a “modest” 3,000sf home to raise my family of 2, 3 or … Continue reading Arcadia vs South Pasadena – $1MM →

June 30, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Two new homes have joined the $2MM+ club. On Friday I profiled a mansion that seemed like a decent deal due to its community and location. Worth your $2MM in the Highlands 2209 Canyon Rd Listing Price: $1,999,000 5,586sf Mountain Location Let’s see if the following homes deserve the same praise. The following is located … Continue reading New listings for $3MM and $5.5MM →

June 28, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

We’ll be out of town until Monday but please enjoy the following article on homeowner’s insurance. I can spend days writing about the number of families who have been forced into distress because they never took the time to verify their insurance coverage or inventoried their belongings. It is wise to do a home inventory … Continue reading Home Insurance – Doing a Home Inventory →

June 27, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

2209 Canyon Rd. Arcadia, CA 91006 Listing price: $1,999,000 ($358/sf) Beds: 6 Baths: 6 Sq. Ft.: 5,586 Lot Size 0.44 acres Since it has been a long week at work for me, we will switch gears and avoid the usual negative comments regarding real estate. So here we have a $2MM home located in the … Continue reading Worth your $2MM in the Highlands →

June 26, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

So what does it take to sell a home in today’s market? I am regularly challenged by associates who say $350-400 per square feet is “normal” for a home in Arcadia. They can’t imagine anything selling for under $300/sf. I don’t blame them since a quick search on Redfin and NeighborCity will reveal that very … Continue reading REO sold for $246 per sq. ft. →

June 25, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Today’s seller is facing the cold hard reality of our housing crisis and has been forced to reduce his listing price by 26.6%. We originally profiled this property back in March and many of you guys agreed that it was ridiculously overpriced: Can’t See the Forest for the Trees Original listing price: $1,350,000 ($614/sf) 38 … Continue reading 26% Price reduction. Expect more on the way. →

June 24, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

For those who commute into Downtown, Pasadena represents a likely alternative to Arcadia. As apparent by the following profiles, you will get more house for the money but a highly rated school district isn’t something you’ll be buying into. Pasadena School Rankings vs Arcadia School Rankings For ~$750,000, you can choose from these 3 homes … Continue reading Arcadia vs Pasadena – $750,000 →

June 23, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

Ever since the credit crunch reared its ugly head last year, everyone from realtors to specuvestors to homeowners strapped to their overpriced properties all wished for a quick recovery. Fall and winter came and went with nothing but disheartening news of subprime woes. Spring was suppose to be the turning point, but we’ve heard nothing … Continue reading Where’s the Summer Rush? →

June 22, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of June 21st 2008* Properties for Sale: 224 (+6) Median Listing Price: $758,900 (0.00%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 34(+2) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 68 (+5) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data.

June 21, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Despite all the housing doom and gloom news, 33,024 homes were sold in California last month. According to DataQuick, it still “made for the slowest May since 1995 …” Foreclosures throughout the state plowed through any hopes that Southern California had hit rock bottom. The median price paid for a home last month was $339,000, … Continue reading May Report – Arcadia down 21.23% →

June 20, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Temple City is a small community-city bordering Arcadia and even crosses it in some areas. As seen on the map below, it is a little less than half the size of Arcadia,  For all you TC Rams, I’ve highlighted your city in green. Today let’s look at what $630,000 will buy you in each city. … Continue reading Arcadia vs Temple City – $630k →

June 19, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Holy cow! I can’t keep up with all the new $2,000,000+ listing that keep popping up every other day. This will be an interesting Summer as all the folks who can’t afford their McMansions anymore try to pawn it off to a lucky clueless buyer. Heck, some of them will even try to make a … Continue reading $3.2MM McMansion – Still no privacy →

June 18, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Today we have two homes. They are both similar in size, acreage and condition. In this case, it’s the location and school district which will determine what their true market is. Which one would you buy? 5308 Garypark Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Price: $450,000 Beds: 3 Baths: 2 Sq. Ft.: 1,435 $/Sq. Ft.: $314 Lot … Continue reading Comparing two locations →

June 17, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Another property has joined the $2,000,000+ club. This one is located in the beautiful Santa Anita Oaks area, or “Upper Rancho Estate”. Bordering close to San Marino and South Pasadena, homes in this community will always carry a hefty premium over other similar Arcadia properties. Of course, there’s nothing normal about these homes either: 3,000+ … Continue reading No Appreciation in the Hamptons →

June 14, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

I was going to save this newly listed property for Monday but it got me so excited that it’s only right I post about it today. Since Father’s Day is coming up and we’ll be busy with family, I will just leave this profile up over the weekend. I’d love to hear your thoughts regarding … Continue reading A $2.5MM Monstrosity. Part 1 →

June 13, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Up for sale is a million dollar home located blocks from Monrovia and the gang shooting area months earlier. But that aside, if safety isn’t your top concern, then this property seems to be promising: 316 Laurel Ave Arcadia, CA 91006 Listing Price: $1,085,000 BEDS: 4 BATHS: 4.5 SQ. FT.: 3,201 $/SQ. FT.: $339 LOT … Continue reading Tour a Home – Get a Timeshare? →

June 12, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

When I was younger (and dumber) I used to think that renting was for poorer folks. My parents hammered into me the belief that renting was equivalent to throwing money away every month. Fortunately, college taught me that it was necessary to challenge everything I’ve learned as a child and realize that many things in … Continue reading 4 Reasons Why You Should Rent →

June 11, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

300 N. Altura Rd. Arcadia, CA 91007 Asking Price $1,399,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,366 Purchased Price $1,399,000 ::: Lot Size 13,680sf Purchased Date 10/16/2007 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 1 ::: Baths 4 $/Sq-ft $591 ::: Year Built 1951 20% Downpayment $279,800 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $349,750 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $7,073/month … Continue reading Breaking Even on Altura Rd. →

June 10, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

*** Update on 1511 Hyland Ave. *** We profiled this property back on April 21st. At the time, it was an REO listing for nearly $1,700,000 ($485/sf). Now it is back on the market with an updated pricing of $1,580,000 ($451/sf) and a modified description: No mention of REO status New photos Properly staged for … Continue reading Updated on Hyland REO →

June 9, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

In addition to tracking home listings in Arcadia, I also try to stay updated in the rental market. My usual sources are the following: Rentals.com Apartments.com Craigslist Newspaper Classifieds This weekend I came across a new site: oodle.com. Their property rental section somehow pulls listings from several other sites and aggregates them into a searchable … Continue reading $2.5MM Home for Rent →

June 8, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of June 7th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 224 (-19) Median Listing Price: $759,900 (1.32%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 27(+2) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 66 (-9) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. Property and foreclosure numbers obtained from U.S. Census, ZipRealty, Trulia, Yahoo Real Estate and … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 6/7/08 →

June 7, 2008 · TheArcadian · News

Somebody told me today that it’s time to buy a home soon because the next housing bubble is right around the corner. Oh dears… My sources from Wall Street are saying that we got at least 5 years to go before any significant recovery of real estate can even be considered. First time buyers, making … Continue reading 3 steps to a housing crash →

June 6, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

Most people give me a crazed look when I tell them home prices in Arcadia will drop another 25-30% over the next 3 years. Why is that so hard to believe when values doubled and nearly tripled over the course of 4 years? A housing bubble consists of 3 points: a peak and two bottoms. … Continue reading A Peak and 2 Bottoms →

June 5, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Before reading on, I wanted to let you know that the following property listing nearly floored me. We have profiled several ridiculously overpriced properties the last 2-3 weeks but this one gets to take home the prize. 1015 S 8th Ave Arcadia, CA 91006 Asking Price $1,180,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,374 Purchased Price $1,017,500 ::: Lot … Continue reading $1,180,000 for Dirt →

June 4, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

2029 S. Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007 Asking Price $718,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,859 Purchased Price $650,000 ::: Lot Size 7,480sf Purchased Date 5/4/2007 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 17 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $386 ::: Year Built 1973 20% Downpayment $143,600 ::: Area Baldwin/Longden Income Required $179,500 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,630/month ::: … Continue reading Little to gain on Baldwin →

June 3, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Obviously, I’m not up at 5am every morning when the daily posts go ‘live’. Property profiles are written the evening before and set to publish the following morning. Unfortunately for me, it’s 12:00am and both Redfin and NeighborCity are down. I’m guessing the servers are undergoing routine maintenance. Since this is the case, I decided … Continue reading First look: Trulia Snapshots →

June 2, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Here is a list of some properties we profiled the last 3 months. Some have been sold and many are still… not! 35 W. Norman – Listed: $1,338,000, Sold for: $1,100,000 31 Woodlan Ln – Listed: $1,724,980, Sold for: $1,667,500 after 350+ DOM. 750 Arcadia Ave – Listed: $558,000, Sold for: $540,000 707 Joanquin Rd– … Continue reading Update on Sale Prices →

June 1, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of May 31st, 2008* Properties for Sale: 243 (+13) Median Listing Price: $759,900 (-1.15%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 25 (0%) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 75 (+9) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. Changing landscape for Realtors Apparently, we’re not the only ones that think the … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 5/31/08 →

May 31, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

Update* – Reduced to $1,294,876 (-$64,000) I profiled this property two months ago and it has since taken a $64k reduction in the asking price. As noted in the comments section of the original post, there was decent foot traffic through the open house back in March. Apparently nothing came about because it’s still on … Continue reading Highland Update* →

May 30, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

815 E. Longden Ave. Asking Price $574,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,823 Purchased Price $575,000 ::: Lot Size 5,356 sqft Purchased Date 12/17.2004 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $315 ::: Year Built 1965 20% Downpayment $114,800 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $143,500 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $2,902/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading REO at 2004 Rollback Prices →

May 29, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

68 W. Longden Arcadia, CA 91007 Asking Price $1,248,888 ::: Sq-ft 1,937 Purchased Price N/A ::: Lot Size 0.45 acres Purchased Date N/A ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 2.25 $/Sq-ft $645 ::: Year Built 1938 20% Downpayment $249,777 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $312,222 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,314/month … Continue reading Another $1.2MM for land →

May 28, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

114 W. Pamela Rd. Asking Price $1,298,000 ::: Sq-ft 3,424 Purchased Price $700,000 ::: Lot Size 7,500 Purchased Date 10/22/2001 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 4.5 $/Sq-ft $379 ::: Year Built 2001 20% Downpayment $259,600 ::: Area Baldwin Stocker Income Required $324,500 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,562/month ::: MLS# A08076815 … Continue reading Still just another McMansion →

May 27, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

1219 S. 6th Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Asking Price $1,200,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,942 Purchased Price $1,230,000 ::: Lot Size 0.61 acres Purchased Date 2/21/2007 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 166 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $618 ::: Year Built 1941 20% Downpayment $240,000 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $300,000 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* … Continue reading $1.2MM for Land. Are you a sucker? →

May 26, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

We are entering a housing market that will be very different compared to the last 5 years. During the run-up of prices leading to our housing bubble, sellers had the luxury of rejecting offers because there were a dozen more offers on the table. As a buyer, you were expected to be ready and increase … Continue reading Tips for a buyer’s market. Part 1 →

May 25, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of May 24th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 230 (+10) Median Listing Price: $768,880 (0%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 25 (0%) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 66 (-3) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. REOs Crashing the  Party Yesterday I wrote about how we will start seeing … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 5/24/08 →

May 24, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

333 Eldorado St. #A Arcadia, CA 91006 Asking Price $859,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,578 Purchased Price $357,000 ::: Lot Size Attached Condo Purchased Date 5/17/1999 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 2.75 $/Sq-ft $333 ::: Year Built 1998 20% Downpayment $171,800 ::: Area East Arcadia Income Required $214,750 ::: Type PUD/Townhome Est. Payment* … Continue reading A PUD I’d rather rent. →

May 23, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

443 Las Tunas Dr. Arcadia, CA 91007 Asking Price $775,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,020 Purchased Price $600,000 ::: Lot Size 0.26 acres Purchased Date 1/4/2008 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 23 ::: Baths 1 $/Sq-ft $760 ::: Year Built 1941 20% Downpayment $155,000 ::: Area Las Tunas / Baldwin Income Required $193,750 ::: Type SFR … Continue reading 290% Return in 4 months →

May 22, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post, Property Profiles

That’s who the average sellers are…hopeful romantics. If this were 2005, I can imagine the logic of buy, wait and resell for profit, but I find it difficult to comprehend that silly people were still doing that last year. The numbers are out for the month of April and DataQuick reported that Arcadia zipcode 91007 … Continue reading Hopeful Romantics →

May 21, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

Day in and day out we profile properties in Arcadia and constantly remind ourselves how much money people would spend for good schools, good location and a generally a safe and welcoming neighborhood. Sometimes we forget that there are cities surrounding Arcadia that may offer more, or even less, home for the same price. I … Continue reading What Can You Buy With $759,000? →

May 20, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

416 S. Old Ranch Rd. Asking Price $750,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,438 Purchased Price ? ::: Lot Size 9,000 sf Purchased Date ? ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $522 ::: Year Built 1941 20% Downpayment $150,000 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $187,500 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,792/month ::: … Continue reading Comp Killers →

May 19, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

3137 Center St. Arcadia, CA 91006 Asking Price $459,900 ::: Sq-ft 1,987 Purchased Price $900,000 ::: Lot Size 10,202sf Purchased Date 10/23/2006 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 10 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $231 ::: Year Built 1947 20% Downpayment $91,800 ::: Area Bordering El Monte Income Required $114,750 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $2,320/month … Continue reading Blast to the past →

May 18, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of May 17th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 220 (+2) Median Listing Price: $768,880 (-0.80%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 23 (+2) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 65 (+4) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. We want your feedback Although AHB has been running for less than 4 … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 5/17/08 →

May 17, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Are you frustrated about how expensive homes are? Do you feel cheated that people who made $30,000 a year were able to drive that decent $400,000 starter home you’ve been saving up for to over $800,000? Now you’re stuck paying someone else’s mortgage and hoping that you’ll be able to afford a decent condo one … Continue reading Are you an angry renter? →

May 16, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

8 W. Camino Real Ave. Asking Price $718,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,956 Purchased Price $268,000 ::: Lot Size 8,875 Purchased Date 09/23/1993 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $367 ::: Year Built 1969 20% Downpayment $143,600 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $179,500 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,630/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading $718k Short Sale →

May 15, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

225 E. Longden Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Asking Price $1,200,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,817 Purchased Price $473,000 ::: Lot Size 0.58 acres Purchased Date 4/27/2000 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 42 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $660 ::: Year Built 1945 20% Downpayment $240,000 ::: Area Longden/2nd Income Required $300,000 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,067/month … Continue reading WTF listing – $1.2MM for land →

May 14, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1043 Leandra Ln. Asking Price $858,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,103 Purchased Price $336,500 ::: Lot Size 9,060 Purchased Date 12/4/1997 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 5 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $408 ::: Year Built 1975 20% Downpayment $171,600 ::: Area Foothill/210 Fwy Income Required $214,500 ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,338/month ::: MLS# A08068681 *Estimated … Continue reading 4 Houses from the Freeway for $858,000 →

May 13, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

535 W. Duarte Rd. #41a Arcadia, CA 91007 Asking Price $428,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,218 Purchased Price $380,000 ::: Lot Size (Condo Complex) Purchased Date 11/4/2005 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 83 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $351 ::: Year Built 1972 20% Downpayment $85,600 ::: Area Duarte/Lacadena Income Required $107,000 ::: Type Attached Condo Est. … Continue reading Condos on W. Duarte →

May 12, 2008 · TheArcadian · Community Profiles

1122 W. Huntington Dr. #3 Arcadia, CA 91007 Asking Price $408,000 ::: Sq-ft 909 Purchased Price $285,000 ::: Lot Size (Condo Complex) Purchased Date 10/29/2004 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 46 ::: Baths 1.75 $/Sq-ft $449 ::: Year Built 1960 20% Downpayment $81,600 ::: Area Huntington/Sunset Income Required $102,000/yr ::: Type Attached Condo Est. … Continue reading Condos on Huntington Dr. →

May 11, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of May 10th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 218 (+0) Median Listing Price: $779,000 (-0.38%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 23 (-1) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 65 (-1) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. 495 days and counting. That’s how long the property below has been listed … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 5/10/08 →

May 10, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

Yesterday, we wrote about how foreclosures will lead this housing correction and the reported numbers are breaking all sorts of records: California – 1st quarter 2008 113,676 Notice of Defaults issued – Up 39.4% from the previous quarter. Notice of Defaults are up 143.1% from first quarter 2007. Actual foreclosures totaled 47,171 – Highest since … Continue reading Foreclosures leading the way →

May 9, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · News

Patrick linked to an interesting article from Zillow yesterday on what homeowners believe about the housing market. “SEATTLE, Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ — Despite repeated highly publicized reports of a home sales slump and pricing slides, there’s a surprising amount of positive consumer sentiment — and perhaps a good measure of homeowner denial as well: Even … Continue reading Nope, Not Me →

May 8, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

521 Columbia Rd. Asking Price $719,777 ::: Sq-ft 2,082 Purchased Price $826,845 ::: Lot Size 9,750 sq-ft Purchased Date 02/20/2008 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 2.5 $/Sq-ft $346 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $143,955 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $179,944/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,639/month ::: MLS# 12109825 … Continue reading 31% Off Peak in Peacock Village →

May 7, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

The internet has changed the way we live. From electronic shopping to scrapbooking, the internet has become the go-to source for researching just about anything. It’s completely changed the way people buy their airline tickets and turned the negotiation tables around on the car dealership show floor. There’s literally an entire world of information at … Continue reading Internet Savvy Buyers →

May 6, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

612 N. 1st Ave. Asking Price $599,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,688 Purchased Price $586,000 ::: Lot Size 7,410 sq-ft Purchased Date 12/24/2007 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 41 ::: Baths 2.5 $/Sq-ft $355 ::: Year Built 1941 20% Downpayment $119,800 ::: Area 210 fwy Income Required $149,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,029/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Holy Freeway Noise Batman →

May 5, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

152 W. Norman Ave. Asking Price $1,480,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,757 Purchased Price $1,400,000 ::: Lot Size 0.58 acres Purchased Date 03/31/2008 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 34 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $842 ::: Year Built 1949 20% Downpayment $296,000 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $370,0 00/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $7,484/month ::: … Continue reading $1,075/sq-ft on Norman Ave – Update →

May 4, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of May 3rd, 2008* Properties for Sale: 218(-13) Median Listing Price: $779,000 (-0.12%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 24 (+0) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 66 (+2) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. For our regular property profile posts, SavedbyGrace has a section labeled “Income Required.” It … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 5/3/08 →

May 3, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

If you refer back to last week’s Inventory post, I had listed the number of home sales for 1st quarter of 2008: Date Sold Median Price Change YOY January 32 $687,500 4.17% February 32 $815,000 -20.61% March 35 $725,500 -13.16% That’s a total of 99 homes sold in Arcadia over the last 3 months. How … Continue reading Volume Down. Median Down. →

May 2, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

812 Victoria Dr. Asking Price $748,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,256 Purchased Price $27,500 ::: Lot Size 7,675 sq-ft Purchased Date 07/11/1969 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 1 $/Sq-ft $596 ::: Year Built 1941 20% Downpayment $149,600 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $187,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,782/month ::: MLS# 22109279 … Continue reading Under $750k in Peacock Village →

May 1, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

Real estate always goes up. Land is running out. Rich foreigners are pouring in by the boat load. Real estate is a great investment. So why in the world are we facing the largest housing and credit crisis in U.S. history? The Culprits Lenders started pushing sub-prime loans so people with bad credit and no … Continue reading So what got us into this mess? →

April 30, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

307 E. Duarte Rd. #B Asking Price $579,900 ::: Sq-ft ? Purchased Price ? ::: Lot Size ? Purchased Date ? ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 199 ::: Baths 3.5 $/Sq-ft ? ::: Year Built 1963 2007? 20% Downpayment $115,980 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $144,975/yr ::: Type Attached Condo Est. Payment* $2,932/month … Continue reading More Bank Owned Foreclosures →

April 29, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

905 Rodeo Rd. Asking Price $575,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,631 Purchased Price $628,000 ::: Lot Size 0.26 acres Purchased Date 09/01/2004 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 11 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $353 ::: Year Built 1950 20% Downpayment $115,000 ::: Area North Arcadia Income Required $143,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $2,907/month ::: MLS# H08056514 … Continue reading Rodeo Casualty →

April 28, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

I’ve kept a close eye on the rise and fall of the housing boom for the past few years. During that time I’ve heard all sorts of opinions and stories from renters, homeowners, coworkers, relatives, realtors, brokers and even random strangers. For the past many years it was mostly the usual “buy now before you … Continue reading Say What? →

April 27, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of April 26th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 231(+9) Median Listing Price: $779,000 (-2.5%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 24(+3) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 64 (-2) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. March numbers for Arcadia have been reported. Let’s take a look at how first quarter … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 4/26/08 →

April 26, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

It’s the weekend and you’re bound to see a lot of open house signs everywhere. If you have nothing else to do, check out one of these distressed properties and get a good hard look at the market landscape. Heck, if it strikes you to do so, throw in a few ultra lowball offers while … Continue reading Arcadia Properties in Distress →

April 25, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

I recently had the opportunity to meet with 3 individuals who “specialize” in real estate investments. I say this with a sarcastic tone because these guys started flipping properties in 2003 and rode the real estate bubble to success. With all the news lately regarding the drop in real estate prices, increase in foreclosures and … Continue reading A Long Way to the Bottom →

April 24, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

5640 Hallowell Ave. Asking Price $619,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,396 Purchased Price $124,000 ::: Lot Size 6,098 Purchased Date 01/16/1985 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 17 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $443 ::: Year Built 1952 20% Downpayment $123,800 ::: Area Live Oak Income Required $154,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,130/month ::: MLS# A08050209 *Estimated … Continue reading Who’s the Lucky One? →

April 23, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1233 S. 6th Ave. Asking Price $1,169,000 ::: Sq-ft 4,227 Purchased Price $1,500,000 ::: Lot Size 0.36 acres Purchased Date 07/15/2005 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 4 $/Sq-ft $277 ::: Year Built 1989 20% Downpayment $233,800 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $292,250/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $5,910/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Back House REO →

April 22, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

140 W. Foothill Blvd. Asking Price $770,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,735 Purchased Price $800,000 ::: Lot Size 0.33 acres Purchased Date 08/23/2006 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 58 ::: Baths 1.75 $/Sq-ft $444 ::: Year Built 1947 20% Downpayment $154,000 ::: Area Santa Anita/fwy Income Required $192,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,893/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Pre-Foreclosure Foothill Short Sale →

April 21, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1511 Hyland Ave. Asking Price $1,698,800 ::: Sq-ft 3,504 Purchased Price $1,500,000 ::: Lot Size 0.27 acres Purchased Date 01/07/2005 ::: Beds 6 Days on Redfin 4 ::: Baths 4 $/Sq-ft $485 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $339,760 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $424,700/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $8,589/month ::: MLS# A08056374 *Estimated … Continue reading Hyland REO →

April 20, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of April 19th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 222 (-21) Median Listing Price: $799,000 (+1.1%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 21 (+1) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 66 (-4) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. A couple of weeks ago, a reader suggested that we provide some sort … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 4/19/08 →

April 19, 2008 · TheArcadian · Property Profiles

38 W. Forest Ave. Asking Price $100,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,685 Purchased Price $610,000 ::: Lot Size 7,500 Sq. Ft. Purchased Date 07/8/2005 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 98 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $59 ::: Year Built 1947 20% Downpayment $20,000 ::: Area Santa Anita/fwy Income Required $25,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $505/month ::: … Continue reading Single Family Home for $100k →

April 18, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

2035 Highland Oaks Dr. Asking Price $1,350,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,810 Purchased Price $600,000 ::: Lot Size 0.32acres Purchased Date 07/14/1989 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 185 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $480 ::: Year Built 1961 20% Downpayment $270,000 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $337,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,825/month ::: MLS# A07150855 *Estimated … Continue reading One Bubble Buyer After Another →

April 17, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

2164 Canyon Dr. Asking Price $1,399,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,129 Purchased Price $1,180,000 ::: Lot Size 0.97acres Purchased Date 9/1/2006 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 125 ::: Baths 2.25 $/Sq-ft $657 ::: Year Built 1959 20% Downpayment $279,800 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $349,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $7,073/month ::: MLS# 22103235 *Estimated monthly … Continue reading A Grand Canyon →

April 16, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1844 Anita Crest Dr. Asking Price $900,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,632 Purchased Price $616,000 ::: Lot Size 10,031 Purchased Date 12/11/2003 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 118 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $551 ::: Year Built 1956 20% Downpayment $180,000 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $225,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,550/month ::: MLS# 22103393 *Estimated … Continue reading On the Crest →

April 15, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

2165 Highland Vista Dr. Asking Price $899,500 ::: Sq-ft 1,873 Purchased Price $455,000 ::: Lot Size 0.87 acres Purchased Date 05/23/2001 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 44 ::: Baths 2.25 $/Sq-ft $480 ::: Year Built 1960 20% Downpayment $179,900 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $224,875/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,548/month ::: MLS# 22106521 … Continue reading High Up in the Hills →

April 14, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Community Profiles

We’ve been gaining some good ground in our readership and subscriptions over the past few weeks and for that, I want to thank you. For those of you who are relatively new to AHB and interested in the various Arcadia communities, I am working on a series of profiles that characterizes the various neighborhoods. Today’s … Continue reading Community Profile – Highlands →

April 13, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of April 12th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 243 (-12) Median Listing Price: $790,000 (+1.4%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 20 (+0) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 70 (+3) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. Are you in a hurry to buy a home? If you are, then … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 4/12/08 →

April 12, 2008 · TheArcadian · Analysis

How do the proposed Housing Bailouts affect taxpayers? There have been several ideas thrown out there so let’s cover a handful of them. The bailout proposals include: Reduction of property taxes. Assisting lenders in reducing the mortgage principal of at-risk homeowners. Subsidizing the same lenders who intentionally made subprime loans. Allowing homebuilders to carry losses … Continue reading Who Pays for the Housing Bailout? →

April 11, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1714 Highland Oaks Dr. Asking Price $1,358,876 ::: Sq-ft 2,788 Purchased Price $980,000 ::: Lot Size 0.28 acres Purchased Date 08/24/2007 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 11 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $487 ::: Year Built 1957 20% Downpayment $271,775 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $339,719/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,870/month ::: MLS# 22107958 … Continue reading Highland →

April 10, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

5674 Huddart Ave Asking Price $749,800 ::: Sq-ft 1,714 Purchased Price $245,000 ::: Lot Size 6,790 Purchased Date 09/15/2000 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 41 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $437 ::: Year Built 1950 20% Downpayment $149,960 ::: Area Near El Monte Income Required $187,450/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,791/month ::: MLS# H08030314 … Continue reading Huddart →

April 9, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

Unless you live under a rock, it’s hard to live life without hearing something about the market bailout. Whether you get the news from the local paper, television, internet or at the office water cooler, you’re bound to come across conversations regarding the drowning housing market. The Feds have bailed out Bear Stearns and there’s … Continue reading Shout About the Bailout →

April 8, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1642 N. Santa Anita Ave. Asking Price $898,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,978 Purchased Price $1,140,000 ::: Lot Size 9,750 Purchased Date 08/09/1991 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 77 ::: Baths 2.5 $/Sq-ft $454 ::: Year Built 1952 20% Downpayment $179,600 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $224,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,540/month ::: MLS# A08010257 … Continue reading Not New to Exotic Financing →

April 7, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

716 Joaquin Rd. Asking Price $775,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,452 Purchased Price $343,000 ::: Lot Size 9,000 Purchased Date 10/13/2000 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 1.75 $/Sq-ft $534 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $155,000 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $193,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,918/month ::: MLS# A08049960 *Estimated … Continue reading Competition on Joaquin →

April 6, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of April 5th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 255 (+21) Median Listing Price: $775,000 (+0.5%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 20 (+1) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 67 (+3) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. A friend came up to me a few weeks ago and he was … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 4/5/08 →

April 5, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

I received an email from “John” last week. Thinking it was a friend, I opened the mesage and it turns out to be from John Laing Homes. My email is registered with all the builders so it wasn’t surprising that John had some comments regarding the current housing market. See for yourself and let us … Continue reading Message from a local builder →

April 4, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1518 Highland Oaks Dr. Asking Price $1,198,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,435 Purchased Price $402,000 ::: Lot Size 0.45 acres Purchased Date 10/16/1992 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 11 ::: Baths 2.25 $/Sq-ft $492 ::: Year Built 1951 20% Downpayment $239,600 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $299,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,057/month ::: MLS# A08042694 … Continue reading Highland History & HELOC Abuse →

April 3, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

707 Joaquin Rd. Asking Price $699,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,513 Purchased Price $669,000 ::: Lot Size 8,625 Purchased Date 02/28/2005 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 1.75 $/Sq-ft $462 ::: Year Built 1947 20% Downpayment $139,800 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $174,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $3,534/month ::: MLS# H08047616 *Estimated … Continue reading Short Sale in Peacock Village →

April 2, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

152 W. Norman Ave. Asking Price $1,888,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,757 Purchased Price $1,350,000 ::: Lot Size 0.58 acres Purchased Date 01/04/2008 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 2 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $1,075 ::: Year Built 1949 20% Downpayment $377,600 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $472,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $9,546/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading $1,075/sq-ft on Norman Ave. →

April 1, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

As the housing correction continues, inventory will increase and more properties will stay on the market without a transaction. Deceiving realtors often take a listing off MLS and Redfin, only to re-list right away in order to reset the days-on-market counter. This particular listing has been re-listed so many times I’ve lost count, but the … Continue reading 400+ DOM in Arcadia →

March 31, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

Most bubble blog readers know that the housing correction will be severe, but I sense that the average Joe still does not quite understand the magnitude of the consequences caused by this Great Ponzi Scheme. The mainstream media is partially to blame for their cheer-leading headlines and quotations from the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) … Continue reading The Data Does Not Lie →

March 30, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of March 29th, 2008* Properties for Sale: 234 (-11) Median Listing Price: $775,000 (+0) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 19 (+2) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 64 (-1) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. Last February’s housing numbers are reporting nothing but negative news. Let’s start on … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 3/29/08 →

March 29, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1025 W. Huntington Dr. #K Asking Price $228,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,160 Purchased Price $200,000 ::: Lot Size 2,117 Purchased Date 10/28/2005 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 25 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $197 ::: Year Built 1968 20% Downpayment $45,600 ::: Area Huntington Income Required $57,000/yr ::: Type Condo Est. Payment* $1,153/month ::: MLS# W08032144 … Continue reading On the Hunt →

March 28, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

After doing property profiles on AHB day in and day out, it has come to my attention that most sellers are still overpricing their property for sale. As a potential buyer, I would like to share something with them. Perhaps they are still in denial and believe that buyers are willing (and/or able) to meet … Continue reading Dear Homedebtors… →

March 27, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

905 Singing Wood Dr. Asking Price $3,450,000 ::: Sq-ft 4,711 Purchased Price $2,400,000??? ::: Lot Size 0.89 acre Purchased Date 02/17/2006 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 146 ::: Baths 5 $/Sq-ft $732 ::: Year Built 1966 20% Downpayment $690,000 ::: Area Santa Anita Oak Income Required $862,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $17,443/month ::: … Continue reading Still Singing? →

March 26, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1031 W. Foothill Blvd. Asking Price $1,998,000 ::: Sq-ft 3,754 Purchased Price $1,700,000 ::: Lot Size 44,100 (1 acre) Purchased Date 07/26/2005 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 156 ::: Baths 4.25 $/Sq-ft $532 ::: Year Built 1956 20% Downpayment $399,600 ::: Area Santa Anita Oak Income Required $499,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $10,102/month … Continue reading Footing the Bill on Foothill →

March 25, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1537 Hyland Ave. Asking Price $1,250,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,567 Purchased Price $1,158,000 ::: Lot Size 10,880 Purchased Date 02/13/2007 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 78 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $487 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $250,000 ::: Area Santa Anita Oak Income Required $312,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,320/month ::: MLS# A08002615 … Continue reading High on Hyland →

March 24, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Community Profiles

This week’s community article will profile the beautiful Santa Anita Oaks area. This serene neighborhood, also known as the Upper Rancho Estates, is essentially at the foothills of the mountains, located north of the 210 freeway. It’s also close to nearby commercial centers like Hasting Ranch which has Whole Foods, Corner Bakery, Sears, Aaron Brothers, … Continue reading Community Profile – Santa Anita Oaks →

March 23, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of March 22nd, 2008* Properties for Sale: 245 (-12) Median Listing Price: $775,000 (+0.7%) Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 17 (+2) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 65 (-7) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. As housing prices decline, many people are tempted to jump into the market … Continue reading Inventory & Market Report – 3/22/08 →

March 22, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

750 Arcadia Ave. #3 Asking Price $558,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,882 Purchased Price $415,000 ::: Lot Size 3,162 Purchased Date 03/02/2004 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 42 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $296 ::: Year Built 1974 20% Downpayment $111,600 ::: Area   Income Required $139,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $2,821/month ::: MLS# A08019933 *Estimated … Continue reading Arcadia Mania →

March 21, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

420 Columbia Rd. Asking Price $898,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,000 Purchased Price $156,000 ::: Lot Size 9,060 Purchased Date 09/28/1984 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 180 ::: Baths 1.75 $/Sq-ft $449 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $179,600 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $224,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,540/month ::: MLS# A07140037 *Estimated … Continue reading Columbia Disaster →

March 20, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

930 Panorama Dr. Asking Price $1,080,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,317 Purchased Price $960,000 ::: Lot Size 10,390 Purchased Date 12/01/2005 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 196 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $466 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $216,000 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $270,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $5,460/month ::: MLS# 22098482 *Estimated … Continue reading Futurama on Panorama →

March 19, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

825 Coronado Dr. Asking Price $980,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,914 Purchased Price $733,000 ::: Lot Size 7,344 Purchased Date 07/05/2005 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 17 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $512 ::: Year Built 1948 20% Downpayment $196,000 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $245,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,955/month ::: MLS# A08031233 *Estimated … Continue reading Coronado Disconnect →

March 18, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

525 Campesina Rd. Asking Price $1,950,000 ::: Sq-ft 5,279 Purchased Price $1,548,500 ::: Lot Size 0.33 acres Purchased Date 07/21/2006 ::: Beds 6 Days on Redfin 103 ::: Baths 5.25 $/Sq-ft $369 ::: Year Built 1989 20% Downpayment $390,000 ::: Area Peacock Village Income Required $487,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $9,859/month ::: MLS# 22102844 … Continue reading Camp and Wait →

March 17, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Community Profiles

This will be the first of several community profiles showcasing different areas in the city of Arcadia. The idea is to provide a general overview of distinct communities so that readers who are not familiar with the area have a better understanding of these places. While this has been on my to-do list for weeks, … Continue reading Community Profile – Peacock Village →

March 16, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of March 15, 2008 Properties for Sale: 257 (+57)* Median Listing Price: $769,000 (+1.4%)* Weekly Foreclosure Update* Properties in Foreclosure: 15 (+1) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 72 (+8) *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. Although there is no shortage of data and reports showing that Souther California’s … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 3/15/08 →

March 15, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

504 W. Naomi Ave. Asking Price $1,600,000 ::: Sq-ft 3,542 Purchased Price $533,000 ::: Lot Size 0.44 acres Purchased Date 01/07/1993 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 16 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $452 ::: Year Built 1951 20% Downpayment $320,000 ::: Area Baldwin Income Required $400,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $8,089/month ::: MLS# A08030241 … Continue reading Excuse Me? →

March 14, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1528 N. Santa Anita Ave. Asking Price $888,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,751 Purchased Price — ::: Lot Size 8,800 Purchased Date 1954 ::: Beds 2bed+den Days on Redfin 7 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $507 ::: Year Built 1954 20% Downpayment $177,600 ::: Area Highland Income Required $222,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,490/month ::: MLS# A08034464 … Continue reading Under $900k in the Highlands →

March 13, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

307 E. Colorado Blvd. Asking Price $859,000 ::: Sq-ft 3,243 Purchased Price $1,088,000 ::: Lot Size 7,296 Purchased Date 11/14/2006 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 4 ::: Baths 4 $/Sq-ft $265 ::: Year Built 1991 20% Downpayment $171,800 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $214,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,343/month ::: MLS# 22106998 … Continue reading REO on Colorado for $265/sqft →

March 12, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1800 Lee Ave. Asking Price $1,658,000 ::: Sq-ft 5,000 Purchased Price $758,000 ::: Lot Size 10,500 Purchased Date 10/21/2005 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 3 ::: Baths 4.5 $/Sq-ft $332 ::: Year Built 2008 20% Downpayment $331,600 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $414,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $8,383/month ::: MLS# W08035337 *Estimated … Continue reading Empty McMansion #7 →

March 11, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

Many have used what I like to call the ‘foreigner-rescue-scenario’ as the primary reason why Arcadia and other cities in the San Gabriel Valley will be essentially immune from the housing crash. I happen to disagree and would be remiss if I simply dismissed it without a closer examination. When kool-aid drinkers state that prices … Continue reading The Foreigner Rescue Scenario →

March 10, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

271 Longley Way Asking Price $898,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,300 Purchased Price $850,000 ::: Lot Size 14,460 Purchased Date 02/28/2007 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 86 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $390 ::: Year Built 1947 20% Downpayment $179,600 ::: Area Baldwin Income Required $224,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $4,540/month ::: MLS# W07176926 *Estimated monthly … Continue reading A Long Way To Go →

March 9, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of March 7, 2008 Properties for Sale: 200 (-63)* Median Listing Price: $758,000 (-2.7%)* Median Sales Price for Homes in Arcadia Weekly Foreclosure Update Properties in Foreclosure: 14 (+0)* Properties in Pre-Foreclosure:64 (+3)* *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. Interestingly enough, 63 Arcadia homes came off … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 3/7/08 →

March 8, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

The nesting instinct is typically characterized by the irrational behaviors of women during and after childbirth. Its symptoms are also common among newly-weds and young couples. This irrationality often entails purchasing a home with or without sound financial prudence. As a woman, I understand that and accept responsibility for the financial and/or emotional trauma our … Continue reading Fight the Nesting Instinct →

March 7, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

44 E. Forest Ave. Asking Price $1,350,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,200 Purchased Price $506,000 ::: Lot Size 7,570 Purchased Date 08/24/2005 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 140 ::: Baths 2.75 $/Sq-ft $614 ::: Year Built 2007 20% Downpayment $270,000 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $337,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $6,825/month ::: MLS# W07152876 … Continue reading Can’t See the Forest for the Trees →

March 6, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

705 Carriage House Dr. Asking Price $3,500,876 ::: Sq-ft 5,755 Purchased Price $1,953,500 ::: Lot Size 25,157 Purchased Date 07/24/2002 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 4 ::: Baths 6.5 $/Sq-ft $608 ::: Year Built 2002 20% Downpayment $700,175 ::: Area SantaAnitaOaks Income Required $875,219/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $17,700/month ::: MLS# W08004196 *Estimated … Continue reading Carried Away with the House →

March 5, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

619 Rosemarie Dr. Asking Price $1,280,000 ::: Sq-ft 3,150 Purchased Price $480,000 ::: Lot Size 7,440 Purchased Date 11/21/2003 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 56 ::: Baths 4.5 $/Sq-ft $406 ::: Year Built 2007 20% Downpayment $256,000 ::: Area Baldwin Stocker Income Required $320,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $8,090/month ::: MLS# W08004196 *Estimated … Continue reading Empty McMansion #6 →

March 4, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

333 E. Las Flores Ave. Asking Price $1,738,000 ::: Sq-ft 3,954 Purchased Price $788,000 ::: Lot Size 9,417 Purchased Date 08/23/2006 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 32 ::: Baths 5.5 $/Sq-ft $440 ::: Year Built 2008 20% Downpayment $347,600 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $434,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $8,787/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Empty McMansion #5 →

March 3, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

322 Leda Ln. Asking Price $1,999,000 ::: Sq-ft 4,450 Purchased Price $779,000 ::: Lot Size 9,840 Purchased Date 11/03/2006 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 45 ::: Baths 4.5 $/Sq-ft $449 ::: Year Built 2008 20% Downpayment $399,800 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $499,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $10,107/month ::: MLS# W08008865 *Estimated … Continue reading Empty McMansion #4 →

March 2, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of March 1, 2008 Properties for Sale: 263 (+16)* Median Listing Price: $779,000 (+0%)* Weekly Foreclosure Update Properties in Foreclosure: 14 (+3)* Properties in Pre-Foreclosure:61 (-1)* *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. January sales figures are in: Number of homes sold: 32 (+3 from Dec. 2007) … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 3/1/08 →

March 1, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

There are renters and home owners. I am currently a renter. Why? Because – 1) Market prices are way over and above the fundamentals 2) It’s cheaper to rent than to buy a home of similar caliber 3) No strings attached I am a renter and I’m not ashamed to declare it. In the olden … Continue reading I am Renter →

February 29, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

415 W. Palm Dr. Asking Price $1,999,000 ::: Sq-ft 4,475 Purchased Price $765,000 ::: Lot Size 9,480 Purchased Date 08/01/2006 ::: Beds 5 Days on Redfin 7 ::: Baths 4.5 $/Sq-ft $447 ::: Year Built 2008 20% Downpayment $399,800 ::: Area Baldwin Stocker Income Required $499,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $10,107/month ::: MLS# A08026688 … Continue reading Empty McMansion #3 →

February 28, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1103 S. 8th Ave. Asking Price $2,880,000 ::: Sq-ft 7478 Purchased Price $750,000 ::: Lot Size 27,063 Purchased Date 04/19/2004 ::: Beds 7 Days on Redfin 113 ::: Baths 7.5 $/Sq-ft $385 ::: Year Built 2007 20% Downpayment $576,000 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $720,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $14,561/month ::: MLS# A07162003 … Continue reading Empty McMansion #2 →

February 27, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

177 W. Norman Ave. Asking Price $3,080,000 ::: Sq-ft 6800 Purchased Price $1,150,000 ::: Lot Size 0.44 acres Purchased Date 04/19/2006 ::: Beds 6 Days on Redfin 4 ::: Baths 7 $/Sq-ft $453 ::: Year Built 2008 20% Downpayment $616,000 ::: Area Baldwin Stocker Income Required $770,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $15,573/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Empty McMansion #1 →

February 26, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

During the rise and peak of the boom, many homes were remodeled or completely torn down and rebuilt. Lending standards were loose and many people were able to take advantage of the cheap money available. Free-flowing credit allowed home equity withdrawals, refinancing and the means to build one McMansion after another. Widespread McMansion development was … Continue reading Supersized Trouble for Unsold McMansions →

February 25, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

1219 S. 6th Ave Asking Price $1,392,000 ::: Sq-ft 1942 Purchased Price $1,230,000 ::: Lot Size 26,414 Purchased Date 02/21/2007 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 75 ::: Baths 2 $/Sq-ft $717 ::: Year Built 1922 20% Downpayment $278,400 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $348,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $7,038/month ::: MLS# S515166 … Continue reading Get Out While You Can →

February 24, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of February 16th, 2008 Properties for Sale: 247 (-1)* Median Listing Price: $779,000 (+3.2%)* Foreclosure Updates as of February 16th, 2008 Properties in Foreclosure: 11 (+1)* Properties in Pre-Foreclosure:62 (-8)* *+/- is compared to previous week’s data. We would like to end the weekend by offering a … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 2/23/08 →

February 23, 2008 · TheArcadian · Misc. Post

Welcome to AHB! As one of the authors of this site, I’d like to take the opportunity and briefly introduce myself. I am a full-time analyst for a real estate development firm. My duties involve evaluating real estate acquisitions, studying market trends and determining the profitability of these investments. We routinely work with public builders … Continue reading Who is TheArcadian? →

February 22, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

217 Carolwood Dr. Asking Price $999,000 ::: Sq-ft 2400 Purchased Price $850,000 ::: Lot Size 14,500 Purchased Date 12/04/2007 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 10 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $416 ::: Year Built 1957 20% Downpayment $199,800 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $249,750/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $5,051/month ::: MLS# 12105594 *Estimated monthly … Continue reading Shameless Flipper →

February 21, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

388 Torrey Pines Dr. Asking Price $4,698,000 ::: Sq-ft 8,616 Purchased Price – ::: Lot Size 24,638 Purchased Date – ::: Beds 6 Days on Redfin 27 (56 Zillow) ::: Baths 9.25 $/Sq-ft $545 ::: Year Built 2006 20% Downpayment $939,600 ::: Area Highlands Income Required $1,174,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $23,753/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Torrey Pines – The McMansion of McMansions →

February 20, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

Whether you agree or disagree with the bearish views on this housing blog, you’re here because you’re interested in the state of the housing market. Unlike the stock market or other financial sectors where participation is voluntary, the housing market is not. Everyone needs a place to live – rent or own. From the early … Continue reading From American Dream to Nightmare on Main St. →

February 19, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

35 W. Norman Ave. Asking Price $1,180,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,854 Purchased Price $1,269,000 ::: Lot Size 0.42 acres Purchased Date 07/27/2006 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 92 ::: Baths 3.5 $/Sq-ft $413 ::: Year Built 1926 20% Downpayment $236,000 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $295,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $5,966/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Normal Price Reductions →

February 18, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

807 W. Camino Real #B Asking Price $569,900 ::: Sq-ft 1,883 Purchased Price $481,500 ::: Lot Size 2,047 sqft Purchased Date 01/11/2008 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 4 ::: Baths 2.75 $/Sq-ft $303 ::: Year Built 1986 20% Downpayment $113,980 ::: Area Near TC Income Required $142,475/yr ::: Type Att. Townhouse Est. Payment* $2,881/month … Continue reading Flipper Turn Sucker →

February 17, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of February 16th, 2008 Properties for Sale: 248 Median Listing Price: $755,000 Foreclosure Updates as of February 16th, 2008 Properties in Foreclosure: 10 (+2*) Properties in Pre-Foreclosure:70 (+4*) *Compared to previous week. In 2000, the estimated median value of homes and condos in Arcadia was $393,700. Based … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 2/16/08 →

February 16, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

1431 S. Santa Anita Ave. Asking Price $1,149,000 ::: Sq-ft 1,207 Purchased Price $816,000 ::: Lot Size 19375 sqft Purchased Date 02/17/2004 ::: Beds 3 Days on Redfin 150 ::: Baths 1 $/Sq-ft $952 ::: Year Built 1946 20% Downpayment $229,800 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $287,250/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $5,809/month ::: … Continue reading $952/sq-ft in 91006 →

February 15, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis, Property Profiles

That is the question. That may not be Hamlet’s question, but that is certainly the question looming over potential buyers as they try to decide whether or not to purchase a home right now. I’ve said before that comparable rents is a key indicator of market fundamentals and I still think that holds true today. … Continue reading To buy or not to buy… →

February 14, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

Today we have clear evidence that Arcadia is not immune from the market forces and that the flip-happy mentality that’s been free flowing for years is coming to a painful end. It’s Valentine’s Day, but there’s no love for this seller. Last month I profiled a McMansion that was a failed flip. Things haven’t gotten … Continue reading Update: Golden McNugget →

February 13, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Inventory

There are many homes on the market in Arcadia. If you don’t believe me, just drive through any neighborhood on a Sunday afternoon and you will see as I did. There were “Open House” signs on every corner, some with more than one sign on a corner and others with signs on all four corners. … Continue reading Open House Sunday Recap →

February 12, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

Despite all my years in Arcadia, I’ve never been to a race at the Santa Anita Race Track. I hear it’s fun and quite exciting to cheer on your horse all the way to the finish line. The thrill of a race and potential to strike it rich on a lucky bet is more than … Continue reading Santa Anita Races →

February 11, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

A financial bubble by definition is the unsustainable growth of a market due to deviations from certain market fundamentals. These bubbles, much like the ones your 5-yr old blows out in the backyard, will pop. That’s just the nature of the beast. Today we will examine several major contributing factors to the expansion of the … Continue reading What Created the Housing Bubble? →

February 10, 2008 · TheArcadian · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of February 9th, 2008 Properties for Sale: 253 Median Listing Price: $749,000 Median sales price for quarter ending Jan. 2008: $650,000 December 2007 Sales Report Properties Sold: 29 Median Price: $790,000 Foreclosure Updates as of February 9th, 2008 Properties in Foreclosure: 8 Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 66 Inventory … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 2/9/08 →

February 9, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

Everyone except those in denial knows that home prices are going to take a tumble crash until it’s back to fundamental normals. Great news for buyers on the sidelines right? Well, what about the offset effects of rising interest rates? Rates have been at historic lows the past few years and it looks like Bernanke … Continue reading Interest Rates vs. Purchase Price →

February 8, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

Last week’s find – $900,000 Dirt, was so outrageous I decided to check out the property in person. Time permitting, I will attempt to check out properties on a weekly basis and share my findings here. There are some things you just can’t see or tell from a Redfin or ZipRealty listing. Here’s a better … Continue reading Out and About →

February 7, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

405 E. Camino Real Ave Asking Price $548,000 ::: Sq-ft 812 Purchased Price $505,000 ::: Lot Size 5,040 Purchased Date 06/08/2007 ::: Beds 2 Days on Redfin 110 ::: Baths 1 $/Sq-ft $675 ::: Year Built 1947 20% Downpayment $109,600 ::: Area Santa Anita Income Required $137,000/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $2,771/month ::: MLS# … Continue reading Flipping Woes on Camino →

February 6, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

725 Tiffany Terrace Asking Price $998,000 ::: Sq-ft 2,777 Purchased Price $1,038,000 ::: Lot Size 8,625 Purchased Date 06/05/2007 ::: Beds 4 Days on Redfin 101 ::: Baths 3 $/Sq-ft $359 ::: Year Built 1985 20% Downpayment $199,600 ::: Area Near Monrovia Income Required $249,500/yr ::: Type SFR Est. Payment* $5,046/month ::: MLS# A07156761 *Estimated … Continue reading Flip ‘n Flop →

February 5, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

Do you take pride in your work? Dan & Joy Blanding of REMAX Realty obviously don’t because their downed RE sign has been in front of this house for at least 4+ months. It was removed temporarily and then resurfaced in the exact same position about a week later. Do you make people angry? Do … Continue reading The Future of Real Estate Agents →

February 4, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

***Update*** This listing was modified today to include a slightly lower asking price of $679,000. You think the realtor/seller saw our profile and decided they need to do something to move this property? The direction is correct; the magnitude is not sufficient. 517 Peachtree Lane Asking Price $699,900 ::: Sq-ft 1,492 Purchased Price $825,000 ::: … Continue reading Not So Peachy Anymore →

February 3, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Inventory

Zip Codes: 91006, 91007 Current Market Listings as of February 2nd, 2008 Properties for Sale: 256 Median Listing Price: $749,000 December 2007 Sales Report Properties Sold: 29 Median Price: $790,000 Foreclosure Updates as of February 2nd, 2008 Properties in Foreclosure: 8 Properties in Pre-Foreclosure: 64 Although many local Realtors continue to claim that Arcadia’s housing … Continue reading Inventory and Market Report – 2/2/08 →

February 2, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

Since I am the primary author for this blog, I owe it to my readers to disclose (at least in part) my background. First and foremost, privacy is paramount. I will share the following facts about me, but fully intend to remain anonymous mainly for self-preservation and safety concerns. I have lived in Arcadia and … Continue reading Who is SavedByGrace? →

February 1, 2008 · TheArcadian · News

Every Friday I will provide a short list of news headlines that reflect the current state of our housing market; either locally, statewide or nationally. By looking back at these headlines we can analyze the current state of the market and project where it is heading from here. Just in case you missed it, SavedByGrace … Continue reading Weekly News Recap 1/31/08 →

January 31, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

There are facts and there are myths. There are truths and there are lies. There are bears and there are bulls. There are some lies that select members of the financial and real estate industry would love for you to accept as fact. Real estate agents, brokers, lenders, appraisers, contractors, bankers and anyone else who … Continue reading A Load of Bull →

January 30, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

6709 N Golden West Ave. 2/14/08 Update on listing price reduction 3/25/08 Sold for $970,000 (22% off peak) McMansion alert! McMansion alert! McMansion alert! Here’s another McMansion up for sale. I can’t imagine why anyone would like the look of a house that’s way overbuilt on its lot. The dominating three car garage at the … Continue reading Golden McNugget →

January 29, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

A financial bubble can be defined as the inflated, over-valued state of a market by unsustainable means. It is important to distinguish between what an asset is worth compared to its fundamental value. A house is worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it. During the past few years, a typical single family … Continue reading Market Fundamentals →

January 28, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

300 E. Camino Real Ave. Directly from Redfin: “NOT A CORNER LOT. LOT SIZE 16082 SQ. FT. (86X187). THE HOUSE WAS DAMAGED BY A FIRE. ORIGINAL LOT SIZE WAS 91X187. THE OWNER WILL GRANT 5 FEET TO THE NEIGHBOR ON THE EAST IN AN EASEMENT OR A LOT ADJUSTMENT. PROPERTY SOLD FOR LAND VALUE ONLY. … Continue reading $900,000 Dirt →

January 27, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

The Fed’s brilliant stimulus plans includes raising the conforming loan amount from $417k to upwards of over $700k depending on the area. Great, so the government’s idea to solve this massive credit crisis for its nation of debtors is to further encourage consumer spending and debt! The American people are swimming in debt and they … Continue reading A Serious Affordability Issue →

January 26, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

10420 E. Live Oak Ave. This speculator-investor didn’t get the memo so I better spell it out for him again – the US housing market is dead. These people are either really greedy or really stupid. I can’t figure out which it is, but it’s probably a bit of both. This is a classic flip … Continue reading Live Flipper →

January 25, 2008 · TheArcadian · News

Every Friday I will provide a short list of news headlines that reflect the current state of our housing market; either locally, statewide or nationally. If you feel that I’m missing one, please leave a comment linking to the article. 1/17/08 – Median house price tumbles 15% in California In addition to tumbling home prices, … Continue reading Weekly News Recap 1/24/08 →

January 24, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

26 E. Camino Real Ave. This is brand new construction that was completed in 2007 by an investor who was obviously looking to make some money. It’s a typical McMansion home complete with the ugly 1990s peachy, pink exterior wall color. The interior is actually quite nice with the open layout, big windows and tray … Continue reading The Real Deal →

January 23, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

31 Woodland Ln. The seller flipper at 31 Woodland Lane must be high on all 31 flavors of Baskin Robbins ice cream. The property has been on the market for 257 days and there’s no sign of any price reductions. It was previously purchased for $1.4MM just 13 months ago and the buyers want to … Continue reading 31 Woodland or 31 Flavors? →

January 22, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Property Profiles

We can go in depth into why this isn’t Sierra Madre Housing Blog or Pasadena Housing Blog, but it’s simply because I live in the Arcadia area. I frequent its restaurants, use its roads, go to its parks and spend much of my time here so it’s convenient for me to scope out properties, keep … Continue reading The City of Arcadia →

January 21, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Analysis

The short answer: It’s dead. The long answer: It’s dead. Period. Even the permabulls can’t deny the horrid state of the market anymore. You can’t watch the news or read the headlines without hearing the mention of foreclosures, crashing housing market, subprime blowouts and the soon-to-be-even-crunchier credit crunch. It’s a fact, the US housing market … Continue reading The State of the Market →

January 21, 2008 · SavedbyGrace · Misc. Post

Welcome! This is an informative web-log chronicling the real estate market in and around the city of Arcadia, California. Along with other cities in sunny southern California, Arcadia has enjoyed a significant increase in its average home price since the start of the real estate boom back in 2001. This site intends to observe, document … Continue reading Introduction to Arcadia Housing Blog →