L.A. Loft Blog Historic Archive of Posts Part 3

This segment of the old lofts.blog.com records is exemplified by the notable forecast that was posted on March 14, 2012.  The post accurately reported diminishing inventory, and predicted rapidly rising loft prices that year.  Thanks to the Wayback Machine by Archive.org.  This 3-post series represents information from 2011/2012 for historic purposes. The information is mostly outdated, with missing links and photos, but it offers some helpful, entertaining archived data and historic real estate news for Downtown Los Angeles. This post includes the oldest of 3 archive parts.  #laloftblog #realestate #news

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES LOFTS AND CONDOS FOR SALE AND RENTALS

Downtown L.A. Lofts, Condos and Apartments For Rent and For Sale
Find or list a property:

RENTALS  |  FOR SALE  |  TOUR  |  CONSULTATION  | LIST YOUR LOFT

NEIGHBORHOODS  |  BUILDINGS  |  TYPE  |  SIZE  |  BEDROOMS

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , |

Coming Soon — Expensive Lofts Only. Lofts Under $250,000 must be purchased by March 31, 2012.

Due to the changing market, prospective buyers must be prepared to start paying higher prices.  Prices are rising.   Inventory is low in Downtown, while the number of serious buyers is increasing.  Beginning April 15, 2012, the Loft Living L.A. team may no longer be able to help buyers who need to purchase properties under $250,000 because there will few if any quality properties in that price range.

If you plan to purchase a loft or condo in or around Downtown for less than $250,000, you must make your purchase now.  By 2013, we expect the minimum price for quality Downtown lofts to be $300,000.

To see low cost properties while they are still available, contact:

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , | Leave a comment

MILLS ACT PROPERTY TAX SAVINGS ON HISTORIC BUILDINGS IN DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

Some Mills Act buildings in Downtown L.A. offer a great rooftop along with potential tax savings
Some Mills Act buildings in Downtown L.A. offer a great rooftop along with potential tax savings

 

 

Higgins Mills Act historic building Downtown L.A
Higgins Mills Act historic building Downtown L.A

The Mills Act offers potential savings on county property tax to owners of condominium units in qualified historic buildings in Downtown Los Angeles.  We have not been able to obtain much hard data on the program, just rumors and 2nd hand information.  We recently have learned that the savings could be much less than the 30% savings that we heard earlier.  In fact, some could even end up owing more tax than without the Mills Act.  Overall, however, the Mills Act seems to be performing, and we have heard that the savings will be higher when the property values go back up again.  The savings is apparently based complex formula (which we have never seen) on the commercial rental value of the properties.  The Mills Act is only on certain old buildings that have not made  significant changes to the external appearance, such as windows.

Here is the only article that I have seen on the Mills Act recently.  We are making no representations on this info, simply passing it on.  Do your own research to confirm everything:

Do you own a great historic building in Los Angeles? Is your property an existing City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument or a contributing structure in a designated Historic Preservation Overlay Zone? Are you interested in a financial incentive that can help you rehabilitate, restore and maintain your building? The City of Los Angeles can help.
The Mills Act Historical Property Contract Program allows qualifying owners to receive a potential property tax reduction and use the savings to help rehabilitate, restore and maintain their buildings. The Mills Act is the single most important economic incentive program in California for the restoration and preservation of historic buildings by private property owners. Enacted in 1972, the Mills Act legislation grants participating local governments (cities and counties) authority to enter into contracts with owners of qualified historic properties who actively participate in the restoration and maintenance of their properties to receive property tax relief. The City of Los Angeles adopted local Mills Act legislation in 1996. Since then, over 600 properties have benefited from the program.
Downtown Los Angeles historic buildings qualified for Mills Act
Downtown Los Angeles historic buildings qualified for Mills Act

Benefits of the Program

A formal agreement, generally known as a Mills Act or Historical Property Contract, is executed between the City of Los Angeles and the property owner for a revolving ten-year term. Contracts are automatically renewed each year so that the term of the contract always extends for ten years. Property owners agree to restore, maintain, and protect the property in accordance with specific historic preservation standards and conditions identified in the contract. Periodic inspections by City and County officials ensure proper maintenance of the property. The City may impose penalties for breach of contract or failure to protect the historic property. The contract is transferred to new owners if the property is sold, and is binding to all successive owners.

Benefits to Owners
Owners of qualified historic properties may apply for the program if they pledge to rehabilitate and maintain the historical and architectural character of their properties for the life of the Contract. The Mills Act program is especially beneficial for recent buyers of historic properties and for current owners of historic buildings who have made major improvements to their properties.
Mills Act participants may realize substantial property tax savings each year for recently improved or purchased older properties because valuations of Mills Act properties are determined by an Income Approach to Value rather than by the standard Market approach to determining appraised value. The Income Approach, divided by a capitalization rate, determines the assessed value of the property. In general, the income potential for an owner-occupied residential property is calculated by examining comparable rents for similar properties in the area, while the income amount on a commercial property is based on actual rent received. Because rental values vary from area to area, actual property savings may vary. In addition, as County Assessors are required to assess all property annually, Mills Act properties may realize slight increases in property taxes each year.

Qualified Historic Property
A qualified historic property in the City of Los Angeles is a property listed as a locally-designated Historic-Cultural Monument or Contributing Property to an approved Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. Additionally, single-family residences (with a property tax value assessment of not more than $1,500,000) and income producing multi-family/commercial/industrial properties (with a property tax value assessment of not more than $3,000,000) are eligible to apply. Property values in excess of these limits may apply for an exemption if they meet certain criteria.
Because the City’s Mills Act program is now nearing the City Council imposed $1 million cap on annual lost revenues, the City will only be accepting applications for properties that need significant rehabilitation or restoration work. The work needed to rehabilitate or restore the property shall be pending or not completed. Applications will be prioritized based on how the Mills Act will be used to assist the viability of the project.
Properties seeking an Exemption from the Valuation Limits of $1.5 million for Single-Family Residences and $3 million for Multi-family/Commercial Properties are required to prepare a Historic Structure Report (HSR). The report shall follow the methodology outlined in Preservation Brief 43 – The Preparation and Use of Historic Structures Reports published by the National Park Service (seehttp://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/briefs/brief43.htm). The HSR is used to substantiate the exceptional circumstances that warrant granting the exemption.
To see Mills Act and other historic buildings with lofts for sale in Downtown Los Angeles, contact:
Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every daycorey@loftlivingla.comhttp://www.LAloftBlog.comLoft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449
Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged | Leave a comment

Studio 1700 Lofts – New Rentals in Downtown Los Angeles – Now Open for Lease

Studio 1700 Lofts Downtown Los Angeles

Studio 1700 Lofts Downtown Los Angeles

Studio 1700 Lofts New Rentals in Downtown Los Angeles

Studio 1700 Lofts New Rentals in Downtown Los Angeles

Now open, the Studio 1700 Lofts are the newest loft rentals in Downtown Los Angeles.   Technically in Boyle Heights right over the 4th Street bridge, the new loft apartments are conversions from a charming 0ld, historic brick industrial building.  They feature plenty of raw original wood floors and exposed brick, while upgraded with brand new kitchens, bathrooms, A/C and dual-pane windows.  SEE PHOTOS

To be among the first to see the new units, call Corey (213) 478-0499  |

MORE PHOTOS  |  MORE INFO  |  VIDEO

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499
corey@laloftblog.com

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with the Double Platinum award-winning Downtown L.A. team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105
DRE#01889449

LOFT BARGAINS & NEWS – L.A. Loft Blog: http://www.laloftblog.com

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , | 2 Comments

LOFTS DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES FOR SALE – Market Heats Up, Prepares to Skyrocket

Downtown L.A. lofts near Spring Street and 3rd

downtown-la-lofts-spring-street-3rd

After several years of falling prices in Downtown real estate, the agents at Loft Living L.A. began to notice some leveling in 2010, and then a few increases in the beginning of 2011.  By June of 2011, most prices were either level or increasing.  For a nice luxury condo in Bunker Hill, a buyer spent about $60,000 more than it was purchased for less than a year before.

Downtown never did get very many foreclosures.  Most Downtown agents now agree that the long spell of falling prices is over in Downtown.  Evan Fujii of Wilshire Metro Realty calls it “stabilized,” while Corey Chambers calls it “white hot!”

Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles are the best investment

Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles are the best investment

“Now most of the bargain hunters who put in offers at or below the comps are being outbid,” says Downtown specialist Realtor® Corey Chambers.  ”Only the properties outside of Downtown offer the comfort of allowing the placement of a low offer while expecting a purchase to likely occur.  In most parts of Downtown, an offer must be $20,000 to $80,000 above the comps in order to win a purchase.”  Most desirable lofts are receiving 3 to 10 offers within just a few days of a new listing.  Just this week, one hopeful buyer offered a whopping $100,000 above the asking price, hoping for a sure thing.  The huge offer was outbid by an even more aggressive offer.

Agents Corey Chambers, Drew Panico Discuss Downtown Real Estate Boom

Agents Corey Chambers, Drew Panico Discuss Downtown Real Estate Boom

One thing is for sure.   It is looking more and more like the next real estate boom has already begun in Downtown.  With the improving economy, bustling Downtown renaissance, and with the shrinking inventory of residential properties, Downtown condo and live/work loft prices are sure to keep trucking.  They could be among the best and smartest investments of all.  With prices at or near the bottom, and with the record low interest rates, buyers simply cannot go wrong in today’s market turn-around.

Posted in Home Buying, Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged | Leave a comment

DOUGLAS BUILDING LOFTS DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES OLD BANK DISTRICT FOR SALE AND RENTALS DOUGLASLOFTS.INFO

Douglas Building Loft Photos L.A. Rentals Downtown Los Angeles

Douglas Building Loft Photos L.A. Rentals Downtown Los Angeles

2 bedroom, 2 bath, 950 sq ft prime corner unit enchanted by bright light and views through many giant windows

Gorgeous, historic 1899 New York style live/work loft building in the Old Bank District of Downtown Los Angeles. Beautifully restored and upgraded, the Douglas Building conversion was carefully designed to preserve integrity of original splendid details: original douglas fir wood floors, original office hallway tile, original quarter-sawn oak front door with replaced cast hardware, gorgeous exposed brick walls and original panoramic hung windows give this loft amazing character. Modern accoutrements: central air and heat, large closets, washer and dryer inside, open Poggenpohl kitchen, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances,

Douglas Building Lofts for rent - updated Poggenpohl designer kitchen

Douglas Building Lofts for rent – updated Poggenpohl designer kitchen

Waterworks bathrooms, high ceilings with designer lighting, sheer and black-out window shades. One secured underground parking space. Walk to restaurants, shops, Metro, theaters, concert hall and Art Walk.  $2,525.  Call for appointment to see this rental: (213) 478-0499 ask for Corey.     SEE VIDEO | MAP | MORE PHOTOS

About the Douglas Building:

The newly restored Douglas Lofts accommodates 50 unique New York style loft units that vary in size and floor plan.

Unique architectural features include high ceilings, exposed brick walls, restored double-hung windows, historic tile and hardwood flooring, state-of-the-art kitchens, and Waterworks bathtubs.

Douglas Building Lofts Downtown Los Angeles Old Bank District

Douglas Building Lofts Downtown Los Angeles Old Bank District

Floors two through four consist of one and two bedroom lofts ranging from 735 to 1,275 square feet, with the fifth floor penthouses from 735 to 1,450 square feet. Corner units boast operable, curved windows, a rare and wonderful architectural detail.

Of the eleven penthouse units, seven have spiral staircases leading to a study that is open to the living area below.

The Douglas Building is a remarkable presence on the corner of Third and Spring Streets in this historic Downtown neighborhood. Just a block from the notable Bradbury Building, the Douglas Building is the legacy of T.D. Stimson, (1827 – 1898) a lumber baron turned real estate mogul who fostered commercial development in Los Angeles during the 1890s. As one of the few remaining vestiges of Los Angeles’ 19th century architectural treasures, the Douglas Building still stands out, bold and elegant in the midst of glass and steel.

glas Building Lofts Downtown Los Angeles Skyline View For Sale and Rentals

Douglas Building Lofts Downtown Los Angeles Skyline View For Sale and Rentals

Designed in 1898 by San Francisco architects, James and Merritt Reid, the Douglas Building was conceived by Stimson as a flagship office building. The abbreviated five-story structure was markedly subdued and modern in comparison to its Victorian neighbors. Across the street was the Stimson Block, an impressive 42-room boarding house, and on either side, ornate two and three-story structures with retail establishments on the ground floor. At the turn of the century Spring Street bustled with activity and commerce, horse-drawn carriages and bicyclists skirted noisy street cars transporting shoppers and businessmen up and down the wide streets of Downtown. These days of prosperity and growth ushered a twenty year building boom, the first of three during the 20th century.

Rentals Downtown Los Angeles Douglas Building Lofts -- LAloftBlog.com

Rentals Downtown Los Angeles Douglas Building Lofts — LAloftBlog.com

When completed, the Douglas Building was dedicated as a memorial to Stimson, a generous, hard-working man who had won the respect of Angelenos. Of the many accolades printed following his unexpected death, one of the most generous appeared in Greater Los Angeles, a weekly tabloid. “He it was who built so liberally and so handsomely on Spring Street as to create a permanent business heart to our city &.” At Stimson’s funeral service, the Reverend Bert Estes Howard’s words echoed the sentiment: “In days to come, when one shall inquire for the monuments of Thomas Douglas Stimson, men may point to our busy streets and to our city filled with the hum of traffic and industry and say, ‘this is his monument.’”

Corner unit Downtown Skyline View Loft Apartment 2 bedroom 2 bathroom L.A.

Corner unit Downtown Skyline View Loft Apartment 2 bedroom 2 bathroom L.A.

The Douglas Building “was considered among Los Angeles’ greatest office buildings and commanded the highest rentals. In its early years, it housed the chief ticket office of the Southern Pacific Railroad.” ² During that time many travelers would have passed through its doors to purchase a ticket.

The Douglas Building is significant in the area of West Third Street, the former heart of Downtown, for several reasons: its association with Thomas Douglas Stimson, the Stimson Estate and the architects; and for its remarkable architectural design and structural system.³ Wholly restored, the Douglas Building will once again be the pride of the neighborhood and certainly one of the most impressive buildings in Downtown.  To see this unit for rent, contact Corey (213) 478-0499.
SEE VIDEO  |  MAP  |  MORE PHOTOS  |  CONTACT US

Waterworks bathrooms -- 2 bedroom, 2 bath loft apartment Downtown L.A.

Waterworks bathrooms — 2 bedroom, 2 bath loft apartment Downtown L.A. Contact Corey (213) 478-0499

AMENITIES

Historically Significant Building
New York Style Loft Units
Striking City Views
Poggen Pohl State-of-the-Art Kitchens
Waterworks Bathrooms
Exposed Interior Brick Walls
Original, Restored Double-Hung Windows
Hardwood and Historic Tile Flooring
Curved Windows at Corner Units
Light, Airy Spaces
High Ceilings
20 Different Floor Plans
7 Two-level Penthouse Units
Central Air and Heat
High-Speed Internet Connection
Washer/Dryer Hookups
Gated Mini-Park on Premises (Pet Friendly)
Secure Underground and Street-Level Parking
Easy Freeway Access
Walking Distance to Major Cultural Attractions, Restaurants and Shopping
Two Blocks from the Metro Red Line Station
Minutes to Grand Central Market

   


View Larger Map

Call for appointment to see this rental: (213) 478-0499 ask for Corey. We represent buyers, renters, sellers and lessors of real estate in the Downtown Los Angeles area. Corey Chambers, REALTOR® (213) 478-0499. Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Keller Williams Realty, Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010 Keller Williams Realty – 445 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105. DRE#01889449 LOFT BARGAINS & NEWS — L.A. Loft Blog: http://www.laloftblog.com

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , , , , | Comments Off

Eastern Columbia Lofts Downtown Los Angeles for Sale and Rentals

Eastern Columbia Lofts in L.A. – Lofts and Penthouses for Sale and Rentals

EASTERN COLUMBIA LOFTS FOR SALE
EASTERN COLUMBIA LOFT RENTALS

Eastern Columbia Lofts for Sale

Eastern Columbia Lofts for Sale

Adorned with stunning turquoise terracotta and gold leaf, the Eastern Columbia Outfitting Companies’ 13-story art deco retail tower was the pinnacle of opulence when it opened in 1930. Today, this zig zag moderne landmark on Los Angeles’ list of historic and cultural monuments dazzles anew – and offers buyers a timeless backdrop for urbane living.Spacious, sophisticated, urbane: each of Eastern Columbia’s 147 light-filled loft condominiums juxtapose luxurious contemporary upgrades and classic period details.

Equal measures of elegance permeate the entry court and sky-high pool deck, leisure terrace and fitness studio. Directed by internationally acclaimed interior designer Kelly Wearstler Interior Design (kwid) and award-winning architectural firm Killefer Flammang Architects, the detailed redesign brings new polish to Eastern Columbia’s faceted beauty.

Eastern Columbia Loft Rentals Downtown L.A.

Eastern Columbia Loft Rentals Downtown L.A.

Moments from Downtown L.A. hotspots like Staples Center, the Arts District and Disney Hall, Eastern Columbia towers over Downtown’s Historic Core. At the hem of the Fashion, Jewelry and South Park Districts, the Historic Core is the city’s authentic commercial downtown. Regaining their poise after decades of slumber, the neighborhood’s Victorian, Beaux Arts and Art Deco buildings are now home to residents, shops, restaurants.

There are usually some Eastern Columbia lofts available to purchase or to rent.  All buildings have issues that buyers and renters need to know about ahead of time to help ensure a successful transaction.  It is free to get help from a Downtown specialist Realtor(R).

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499
corey@laloftblog.com

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with the Double Platinum award-winning Downtown L.A. team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105
DRE#01889449

LOFT BARGAINS & NEWS – L.A. Loft Blog: http://www.laloftblog.com

EASTERN COLUMBIA LOFTS FOR SALE
EASTERN COLUMBIA LOFT RENTALS

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , | Comments Off

BISCUIT COMPANY LOFTS DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES RENTALS / FOR SALE

1850 INDUSTRIAL ST #310, LOS ANGELES ,CA 90021 LP: $2,450
For Lease (213) 478-0499 http://www.laloftblog.com

biscuit-company-loft-building

biscuit-company-loft-building

BR: 1 YB: 2007 BA: 1.00 APX SF: 980/VN POOL: Yes PKG: 1
SDEP: $2,450 Biscuit Company Lofts TERM: 1-Year DIRECTIONS: Corner of Industrial St and Matteo. One block north of 7th Street. One two blocks east of Alameda.

biscuit-company-pool

biscuit-company-pool

REMARKS: Great views from this amazing Industrial-style Loft in the heart of the Arts District. Wood Floors. High Ceiling. Lots of Windows and Light. Modern Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances including Refrigerator. In-unit Washer/Dryer. One Covered Parking Space. Additional Parking is available. Building amenities include Salt Water Lap Pool, Barbeques, Fitness Center and Dog Run. Church & State is on the first floor. Joe’s Market is across the street. Swill Wine Bar and Restaurant is next door.

biscuit-loft-310-view

biscuit-loft-310-view

ROOMS: Breakfast Area,Dining Area,Living,Media,Office
AMENIT: Controlled Access,Elevator,Exercise Room,Pool,Sun Deck
EQUIP: Built-

biscuit-company-loft-310

biscuit-company-loft-310

Ins,Cable,Dishwasher,Dryer,Garbage Disposal,Microwave,Range/Oven,Refrigerator,Washer
AIR: Central HEAT: Central
FLOOR: Hardwood LAUNDRY: Inside
FIREPL: None ROOF:
POOL: Community,Indoor TENANT PAYS: Electric,Gas,Move In Fee,Move Out Fee
PARK: Community Garage,Gated,Side By Side,Subterranean TYPE: Loft
VIEW TYPE: City Lights SEC: 24 Hour

To see this and other lofts in Downtown Los Angeles, call Corey Chambers – LAloftBlog.com – (213) 478-0499

Biscuit Company Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged | Comments Off

FHA Approved Downtown Los Angeles Lofts – Low Down Payment Purchase

For years, prospective Downtown loft buyers have faced big challenges of obtaining financing on mixed-use developments.  Most lenders simply don’t want to take on the perceived risk of lending on live-work loft buildings.  Many buyers had to put down 20% or even pay all cash recently to purchase most Downtown lofts for sale.   The resulting decrease in value from lost potential buyers causes equity slide, a lower value for the property.  Fortunately, this is changing as buying Downtown lofts just got a little easier.

Evo the latest Downtown loft building HUD approved for FHA/VA low down payments

Evo the latest Downtown loft building HUD approved for FHA/VA low down payments

Loft Living L.A. and Jon Eberhardt of Condo Approvals, LLC have been making inroads to easier financing of lofts.   Eberhardt specializes in helping HOAs (homeowners associations) obtain HUD and VA approval for their buildings so that buyers can put down lower down payments.  Owners benefit from the faster sales and higher prices that can be obtained when more buyers are able to afford the lofts for sale.  For sellers, this could be the fastest way to increase the value of one’s own property without remodeling. Those who are thinking about selling should contact a member of the HOA to request HUD approval ahead of time.

A year ago, less than a handful of loft buildings were qualified for VA/FHA.  Now the list is growing.  When an HOA decides to increase the value of thier properties by gaining HUD acceptance, it is usually completed in just 30 days for less than $1,000.  The value to the HOA can be hundreds of thousands, even millions of dollars.  The increasing prevalence of FHA & VA loans are expected to have a direct noticeable impact on Downtown real estate.

So, here is the list of FHA approved Downtown loft and condo buildings as of 1/17/2012:

Evo, Elleven, Luma, Market Lofts, Mura, Tokyo Villas, Alta, Gallery – Buyers should call Corey (213) 478-0499 to request an updated list

How to immediately increase the value of your property: 

Anyone who is concerned about their HOA or property value should watch this Loft Living L.A. video interview with Eberhardt about getting FHA approval:

To see FHA, VA and other low-down-payment lofts for sale in Downtown Los Angeles, contact:

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499
corey@laloftblog.com

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with the Double Platinum award-winning Downtown L.A. team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105
DRE#01889449

Posted in Home Buying, Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off

Condos and Lofts in Pasadena – Our New Broker is Keller Williams Pasadena

Find a loft or condo in Pasadena.  As Loft Living L.A. has grown, we have recently moved up to a larger Keller Williams broker in Pasadena.  With some of the most powerful resources in the world, the Keller Williams Pasadena broker provides us with awesome tools and superior knowledge base that will help our clients accomplish some amazing real estate transactions in 2012.

ostrich-farm-lofts-pasadena

Ostrich Farm Lofts in Pasadena, CA

While our team still lives and works in Downtown Los Angeles, we are at the Pasadena broker office frequently, and are now more available to help all types of condo seekers in Pasadena and South Pasadena.

The area is home to some loft buildings such as the 50 West Dayton Library Hall Lofts, Pasadena Collection East and West, Holly Street Village, Ostrich Farm Lofts, Raymond Renaissance, Alta Lofts and others.

Lofts Downtown Los Angeles specialist Realtor (213) 478-0499

Lofts Downtown Los Angeles specialist Realtor (626) 956-1356

To see these and other condos in Pasadena, contact Corey (626) 956-1356 or email kwpasadena@yahoo.com

Posted in Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena Condos| Tagged , , , , , , |Comments Off

Affordable Lofts SELLING OUT – Last Chance to Own a Big, Bright Loft in Downtown Los Angeles

BUY A LOFT IN DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES WITH LOW DOWN PAYMENT – ALMOST SOLD OUT

Loft for sale in Downtown Los Angeles - Almost Sold Out

Loft for sale in Downtown Los Angeles – Almost Sold Out

For those who need a low down payment around $5,000 to $10,000 or less, time is running out to get a nice loft in the Downtown Los Angeles area.  The large lofts over 1,000 square feet with plenty of windows and light around $200,000 are almost gone.  Whether new Downtown residents are looking to rent or to buy, the best lofts will likely be sold out by the end of the year.

BIG BRIGHT LOFTS LOW DOWN PAYMENTS - ALMOST GONE

BIG BRIGHT LOFTS LOW DOWN PAYMENTS – ALMOST GONE

LOFT RENTALS

LOFTS FOR SALE

Downtown L.A. has been running out of loft inventory, with a smaller and smaller selection and rising prices since the end of 2010.  Most rental buildings Downtown are nearly full and have already started raising rents.  While home affordability is at a record high, the best lofts for sale are almost all gone.

Affordable lofts in upcoming Rivertown community - nearly sold out

HOT PROPERTY – Affordable lofts in up-and-coming Rivertown Downtown L.A. community – nearly sold out

The up-and-coming Rivertown plan has just been release for the little-known neighborhood near the Brewery Lofts.  The area is home to the only new loft development with FHA 3.5% down financing.  To find out all about Rivertown, call Downtown Specialist Realtor® Corey Chambers (213) 478-0499 to make an appointment to see the lofts.

Those with moderate incomes under $65,000 absolutely must buy now if they want a big, bright loft.  Contact a Downtown specialist Realtor to help you find and negotiate an unbelievable deal on a great big loft.

Those who are sold on the idea of renting in Downtown are sure to see increasing rents.  But those who are able to take advantage of today’s low purchase prices will find a big, loft with lots of windows and light, along with a bright future.

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499

Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

corey@laloftblog.com
http://www.LAloftBlog.com
Loft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

LOOKING TO BUY A LOFT?  Get started with our free buyer consultation:
http://www.LivingOutrageouslyForToday.com?corey

LOFT RENTALS  |  LOFTS FOR SALE  |  LOFT BUYERS GUIDE

Posted in Home Buying, Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged , , | Comments Off

Copyright © This free information provided courtesy L.A. Loft Blog and LAcondoInfo.com with information provided by Corey Chambers, Realty Source Inc, BRE#01889449 We are not associated with the homeowner’s association or developer. For more information, contact (213) 880-9910 or visit LAcondoInfo.com Licensed in California. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. This post is an archive backup for historic purposes, not intended to represent current information. Portions have been updated, but most is historic archive. Properties subject to prior sale or rental. This is not a solicitation if buyer or seller is already under contract with another broker.

Lofts.Blog.com L.A. Loft Blog History Archive Part 2

Downtown Los Angeles Real Estate Backup Archived Article Records Pt 2

This week, the LA Loft Blog is restoring some old posts from the defunct blog.com server that began a slow and painful demise a few years ago. Because it is taken from Archive.org Wayback Machine, some of the photos and links are not working. The historical text can be helpful to show what was happening with urban properties a few years ago. Some of the text may be updates, but most is old information from the time that the blog post was originally written. #laloftblog #dtla

Skid Row homeless poverty and blight in the center of Downtown Los Angeles
Skid Row homeless poverty and blight in the center of Downtown Los Angeles
Some have recently questioned whether Downtown Los Angeles is headed in the right direction regarding racial diversity.  My real estate team and I are working to make sure that Downtown is getting more diverse.  We do not believe that a diverse Downtown needs more poor and homeless. It needs fewer.  We believe that ending up with fewer homeless and poor is a good thing and the right thing.  If more poor are truly being helped effectively, then they will raise themselves up and no long be as poor.  I’ve seen myself and my family members of all races and creeds turn their lives from poor to rich through hard work and determination, along with a little bit of love, respect and freedom to choose one’s own destiny.
LOFTS FOR SALE IN DOWNTOWN  |  LOFTS FOR LEASE IN DOWNTOWN  |  CONTACT USAs a Realtor(R) real estate agent in Downtown Los Angeles, I work hard to promote equality and opportunity for everyone in Downtown housing. Nevertheless, lofts in Downtown are not the cheapest residential real estate to buy or rent. Lofts often tend to appeal to those demographics that have average or above average income and resources. Lofts are a unique and different way of living and working that seem to have greater appeal to or access by people of means. While I don’t believe in race, as all humans are of African descent, I cannot help notice that some of the loft buildings are not as diverse as they perhaps should be in Downtown Los Angeles.  I thank God for giving me close family members who are very racially diverse.  I want Downtown to be equally blessed.

The LA Weekly blog recently questioned the ethics and validity of the loft-based gentrification of Downtown. It states that poor blacks have moved out as rich whites have moved in? Is it racial cleansing?

http://blogs.laweekly.com/informer/2012/05/occupy_central_city_association_angeles_skid_row_protest.php

Following the logic of the LA Weekly blog article, we would have to ask another question. In the 1950s, 60s and 70s, were middle class and wealthy caucasians displaced by African Americans and Hispanics in downtown and south central Los Angeles?  If so, was it racial cleansing?

Corey Chambers supports charity benefit in Skid Row Downtown Los Angeles
Corey Chambers supports charity benefit in Skid Row Downtown Los Angeles

Having observed the white, black, Hispanic and Asian members of my own family pull themselves up by hard work and determination, I must conclude that each individual is best suited to help themselves, their family, and community in that order. The government is inherently too distant to be very good athelping individuals.

The best help the government can provide is to get out of the way and let people help themselves and help others in the way that keeps proving to work best  –  free enterprise.

The team at Loft Living L.A. has been helping the poor and homeless in Downtown regularly for more than 10 years.

Skid Row is currently a place where families feel unwelcome and unsafe.  That is not fair for families, residents and businesses who support Downtown.  It is time to turn Skid Row into what it should be.  It is ultimately not fair to the homeless to provide half-way support and services.  We need to turn their lives around while turning Skid Row around that the same time.  It it time to do it now.  It is time to step up and to provide the funding necessary to create more homes, jobs, training and services, and to turn the blighted Central City East “Skid Row” into a beautiful neighborhood that is powerfully uplifting for the local residents.  You may support the new family-friendly casino district by signing the petition at http://www.facebook.com/skidrowcasino

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
(877) 4LA-LOFT Office
(213) 232-7778 FAX
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

corey@loftlivingla.com

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

Loft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

LOFTS FOR SALE IN DOWNTOWN  |  LOFTS FOR LEASE IN DOWNTOWN  |  CONTACT US

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Leave a comment

Southern California Real Estate Prices Up Reports Los Angeles Times

The L.A. Loft blog reported last year that real estate prices were going up in Downtown Los Angeles.   Along with other sought after areas such as West Los Angeles and beach areas like Malibu, Downtown was among the first to see home prices rise.  Other cities are catching on.  And now the real estate recovery is official.   Read the Los Angeles Times article

The Wall Street Journal NewsHub reported that billionaire Warren Buffet is now investing big in residential real estate.

L.A. Loft blog readers should note that reduced inventory comes with higher prices.  Selection has been dropping, and competition among other buyers is fierce for the best properties.  The best properties in Downtown are often receiving 5 to 20 offers in a matter of days, and the most popular lofts and condos are beginning to sell for substantially more than the asking price in many cases.

Finding, financing, negotiating and closing on a Downtown loft can be much more difficult than a traditional home.  Buyers must use a Downtown specialist Realtor(R) to get the best chance of success when seeking a Downtown loft or condo.

LOFTS FOR SALE IN DOWNTOWN  |  LOFTS FOR LEASE IN DOWNTOWN

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

 

DRE#01889449

LOFTS FOR SALE IN DOWNTOWN  |  LOFTS FOR LEASE IN DOWNTOWN

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| 1 Comment

Real Estate Prices Up in Downtown Los Angeles – Lofts, Condos for Sale and Rentals Show Lower Inventory and Higher Values

Home Prices Go Up as the Number of Available Downtown Properties Plummets
The numbers are just now beginning to show what Loft Living L.A. Realtors(R) have been witnessing for nearly a year.   The latest real estate numbers fresh off of the MLS show reduced inventory, higher prices and faster sales.  Last August, Loft Living Los Angeles announced that we were already seeing many signs of a market turnaround in Downtown.  Now the numbers are in to support the improving Downtown real estate market that we have been seeing for the past ten months.  Compare numbers from this past three months to the same period in the prior year.

 

Real Estate Prices Rise in Downtown Los Angeles

Demand is up, while housing inventory is down.  The number of properties available to purchase has shrunk from 139 to 125.  Properties are selling much faster.  The number of days on the market has shrunk from 85 to 55, more like around 5 days for the best properties.  The low end price has risen from $96,600 to $107,500, while there are now very few properties remaining under $250,000.  The high end price has risen from $1,966,300 to $7,250,000.  It is now officially a seller’s market as the average selling price has increased from 95.44% to 112.50% of the listed price.  The market analysis reports are below.

What Loft Living real estate agents have witnessed personally is much more dramatic than these numbers because we deal with the highest quality properties in Downtown.   We have seen the number of purchases grow dramatically over the past few months.  And we have even more closing in the next few months.

LOFTS FOR SALE IN DOWNTOWN  |  LOFTS FOR LEASE IN DOWNTOWN

To see lofts and condos for sale in Downtown, contact:

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile

http://www.LAloftBlog.com
DRE#01889449

Market Analysis Report

Last Run: 06/26/2012 at 4:20:48 PM   Status: Sold Sold Date: 3/1/2012 to 5/31/2012 Areas: (23) Metropolitan — (42) Downtown L.A.

Recent Market Data:

# of Listings

Average DOM

Low Price $

Median Price $

High Price $

Average Price Total $

*Avg. Price w/ Sq.Ft. $

*Average Sq. Ft.

*Avg. Price/Sq.Ft. $

***Avg. Price w/ LSZ $

***Average LSZ

***Average Price/LSZ $

Average SP/Average LP

Sold LP

125

55

115,000

310,000

2,630,000

405,689

387,751

1,103.32

351.44

246,079

53,765.36

4.58

Sold SP **

125

55

107,500

323,000

7,250,000

456,406

438,877

1,103.32

397.78

248,571

53,765.36

4.62

112.50%

* = Square footage calculations do not include those listings with a reported square footage of zero (2 such listings were found).
*** = Lot size calculations do not include those listings with a reported lot size of zero (194 such listings were found).
** = All calculations in the “Sold (Sold Price)” column do not include those Sold listings with either a reported square footage of zero or a reported Selling Price of zero (0 such listings were found) or a reported lot size of zero (0 such listings were found).
Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public Records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. Copyright © 2012 by Combined L.A./Westside MLS, Inc. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Corey Chambers DRE# 01889449

Corey Chambers – LAloftBlog.com – (213) 478-0499 – coreychambers@yahoo.com

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| 2 Comments

New Lofts Under Construction in Downtown Los Angeles – Exclusive Preview for Loft Living L.A. Clients

New lofts in Downtown Los Angeles for sale
New lofts in Downtown Los Angeles for sale

Loft Living L.A. is pleased to announce that twenty-one units are near completion of a New York style live/work loft building in Downtown Los Angeles.  Loft Living L.A. clients are among the very first to get a sneak preview of the units before construction is complete and before the building is open to viewing. At least one Loft Living client has submitted an offer on a unit with private outdoor space.  The buyer is likely to get first dibs on a loft with big windows and a large patio.

A short walk to the hip, social pubs of the Arts District and culinary delights of Little Tokyo promenades, units in the six-story building will range from around 630 to 2,200 square feet.  Many will have 2-bathrooms and balcony or patio. Several come with 2-car tandem parking spaces.  The layouts are among the most thoughtful and well balanced, with ceilings ten to eleven feet high, lofty openness, big windows and natural light, closets and just the right amount of separation of the bedroom areas.  Some of  penthouses are 2-story with large terraces.  The rooftop is equipped with a large hot tub spa, lounge area and barbeque with outdoor kitchen.

A second phase of the project is in the planning stage. All buildings have various issues that buyers need to know about.  A knowledgeable Downtown loft specialist can share the pros and cons of this building so that a potential buyer will have the best chance of making a happy purchase decision and great investment.

To get in early and get the best pick, call Corey:

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
(877) 4LA-LOFT Office
(213) 232-7778 FAX
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

corey@loftlivingla.com

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

Loft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| 2 Comments

LUMA LOFTS FOR RENT DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

Downtown Luxury Rental in the Luma building, South Park by L.A. Live

1100 S Hope St Apt 816, Los Angeles, CA $5,800

Furnished 2BR/2+1BA Condo $5,995/month – ENJOY THE EXCITEMENT AND COMFORT OF SOUTH PARK DOWNTOWN IN THIS 8TH FLOOR LUMA CORNER UNIT WITH SUPREME NORTHWEST VIEW OF THE HIGHRISE SKYLINE AND L.A. LIVE. FULLY DESIGNER FURNISHED, THIS SOFT LOFT FEATURES HIGH CEILINGS AND GREAT OPENNESS SURROUNDED BY AMAZING FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS FOR BRIGHT LIGHT AND EXPANSIVE VIEWS. EACH OF THE TWO BEDROOMS IS SEPARATED BY A DESIGNER SLIDING DOOR. EACH BEDROOM HAS A FULL BATHROOM. 2-CAR TANDEM PARKING SPACE. OPTIONAL STORAGE UNIT AVAILABLE. THE LEED CERTFIED LUMA BUILDING OFFERS FULL AMENITIES INCLUDING COVERED PARKING IN THE BUILDING, CONCIERGE FRONT DESK WITH 24-HOUR SECURITY, FITNESS CENTER GYM, SWIMMING POOL, HOT TUB SPA, OPEN COURTYARD WITH WATERFALL, BARBEQUES, FIREPLACE, LOUNGE CHAIRS, TREES, TABLES AND BENCHES. NEAR L.A. LIVE, STAPLES CENTER, THEATER, CONCERTS, FINE DINING, SHOPS, COFFEE, BAKERY, AND METRO STATION.

http://www.postlets.com/rtpb/7442198

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
(877) 4LA-LOFT Office
(213) 232-7778 FAX
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

corey@loftlivingla.com

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

Loft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Comments Off

Buying a Loft in Downtown Los Angeles – Short Sale, Resale, New Development or Foreclosure?

Short Sale, Resale, New Development and Foreclosure

Short Sales, Foreclosures, New Developments and Resales -Lofts for Sale in Downtown Los Angeles -

Short Sales, Foreclosures, New Developments and Resales -Lofts for Sale in Downtown Los Angeles –

Downtown Los Angeles offers four common types of sales, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.  They each require different tactics and strategies, and are appropriate for different types of buyers.  A short sale, for instance, is most appropriate for investors because of its lengthy transaction period, and the need to place offers on many properties, without getting attached to any particular property.  Standard sales include resale of used properties, and sale of new developments.  Perhaps the most desirable for the buyer (and the most rare) is the foreclosure, which often provides for a quick transaction.

Short Sales, Foreclosures, New Developments and Resales

Short Sales, Foreclosures, New Developments and Resales

A short sale is not short.  It usually takes the longest period of time from placing an offer to closing escrow, usually more than three months.  Some short sales by Bank of American have recently closed in just 2-3 months.  The results of most offers on short sales is nothing.  An offer is placed, and there is no response from the seller.  Sometimes the seller’s agent does not even acknowledge receipt of the offer.  It the bidder is lucky to receive an affirmative response from the seller, it means that the bidder, if lucky, might have a 50% chance to buy the property.  The seller will submit the offer to the bank, then wait patiently for a month or two before the bank begins to consider the offer. The counter offer usually comes months later.  What usually happens, unfortunately, is that the buyer has a already moved on by the time the bank has come back with a counter offer.   The highest back-up offer often has a better chance of making the purchase than the original bidder.

Standard sales fall into two categories: new development and resale.  A new development often offers a relatively fast transaction, easy purchase with a sales office (bring an agent with you on your first visit, or you may not have an expert to look after your best interests).  Resale of used properties can also offer a fairly quick and easy transaction.

Each type of sale requires a different strategy for placing offers and negotiating the best price and terms.  For Downtown lofts, it is very important to use a Downtown loft specialist who knows the issues good and bad for each building.  Those who use an agent from another area almost certainly face extra delays, more costs.  A Downtown specialist Realtor(R) more often than not makes the difference between a failed transaction and a successful Downtown home purchase.

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
(877) 4LA-LOFT Office
(213) 232-7778 FAX
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

corey@loftlivingla.com

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

Loft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged, , | Comments Off

Coming Soon — Expensive Lofts Only. Lofts Under $250,000 must be purchased now.

Due to the changing market, prospective buyers must be prepared to start paying higher prices.  Prices are rising.   Inventory is low in Downtown, while the number of serious buyers is increasing.  Beginning the 2nd half of 2012, the Loft Living L.A. team may no longer be able to help buyers who need to purchase properties under $250,000 because there will few if any quality properties in that price range.

If you plan to purchase a loft or condo in or around Downtown for less than $250,000, you must make your purchase now.  By 2013, we expect the minimum price for quality Downtown lofts to be closer to $300,000.

To see low cost properties while they are still available, contact:

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
(877) 4LA-LOFT Office
(213) 232-7778 FAX
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every day

corey@loftlivingla.com

http://www.LAloftBlog.com

Loft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged, , | Comments Off

MILLS ACT PROPERTY TAX SAVINGS ON HISTORIC BUILDINGS IN DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

Some Mills Act buildings in Downtown L.A. offer a great rooftop along with potential tax savings

Some Mills Act buildings in Downtown L.A. offer a great rooftop along with potential tax savings

The Mills Act offers potential savings on county property tax to owners of condominium units in qualified historic buildings in Downtown Los Angeles.  We have not been able to obtain much hard data on the program, just rumors and 2nd hand information.  We recently have learned that the savings could be much less than the 30% savings that we heard earlier.  In fact, some could even end up owing more tax than without the Mills Act.  Overall, however, the Mills Act seems to be performing, and we have heard that the savings will be higher when the property values go back up again.  The savings is apparently based complex formula (which we have never seen) on the commercial rental value of the properties.  The Mills Act is only on certain old buildings that have not made  significant changes to the external appearance, such as windows.

Higgins is among the list of Mills Act historic buildings in Downtown L.A.

Higgins is among the list of Mills Act historic buildings in Downtown L.A.

Here is the only article that I have seen on the Mills Act recently.  We are making no representations on this info, simply passing it on.  Do your own research to confirm everything:

Do you own a great historic building in Los Angeles? Is your property an existing City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument or a contributing structure in a designated Historic Preservation Overlay Zone? Are you interested in a financial incentive that can help you rehabilitate, restore and maintain your building? The City of Los Angeles can help.
The Mills Act Historical Property Contract Program allows qualifying owners to receive a potential property tax reduction and use the savings to help rehabilitate, restore and maintain their buildings. The Mills Act is the single most important economic incentive program in California for the restoration and preservation of historic buildings by private property owners. Enacted in 1972, the Mills Act legislation grants participating local governments (cities and counties) authority to enter into contracts with owners of qualified historic properties who actively participate in the restoration and maintenance of their properties to receive property tax relief. The City of Los Angeles adopted local Mills Act legislation in 1996. Since then, over 600 properties have benefited from the program.

Downtown Los Angeles is home to many historic buildings qualified for the Mills Act

Downtown Los Angeles is home to many historic buildings qualified for the Mills Act

Benefits of the Program

A formal agreement, generally known as a Mills Act or Historical Property Contract, is executed between the City of Los Angeles and the property owner for a revolving ten-year term. Contracts are automatically renewed each year so that the term of the contract always extends for ten years. Property owners agree to restore, maintain, and protect the property in accordance with specific historic preservation standards and conditions identified in the contract. Periodic inspections by City and County officials ensure proper maintenance of the property. The City may impose penalties for breach of contract or failure to protect the historic property. The contract is transferred to new owners if the property is sold, and is binding to all successive owners.

Benefits to Owners
Owners of qualified historic properties may apply for the program if they pledge to rehabilitate and maintain the historical and architectural character of their properties for the life of the Contract. The Mills Act program is especially beneficial for recent buyers of historic properties and for current owners of historic buildings who have made major improvements to their properties.
Mills Act participants may realize substantial property tax savings each year for recently improved or purchased older properties because valuations of Mills Act properties are determined by an Income Approach to Value rather than by the standard Market approach to determining appraised value. The Income Approach, divided by a capitalization rate, determines the assessed value of the property. In general, the income potential for an owner-occupied residential property is calculated by examining comparable rents for similar properties in the area, while the income amount on a commercial property is based on actual rent received. Because rental values vary from area to area, actual property savings may vary. In addition, as County Assessors are required to assess all property annually, Mills Act properties may realize slight increases in property taxes each year.

Qualified Historic Property
A qualified historic property in the City of Los Angeles is a property listed as a locally-designated Historic-Cultural Monument or Contributing Property to an approved Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. Additionally, single-family residences (with a property tax value assessment of not more than $1,500,000) and income producing multi-family/commercial/industrial properties (with a property tax value assessment of not more than $3,000,000) are eligible to apply. Property values in excess of these limits may apply for an exemption if they meet certain criteria.
Because the City’s Mills Act program is now nearing the City Council imposed $1 million cap on annual lost revenues, the City will only be accepting applications for properties that need significant rehabilitation or restoration work. The work needed to rehabilitate or restore the property shall be pending or not completed. Applications will be prioritized based on how the Mills Act will be used to assist the viability of the project.
Properties seeking an Exemption from the Valuation Limits of $1.5 million for Single-Family Residences and $3 million for Multi-family/Commercial Properties are required to prepare a Historic Structure Report (HSR). The report shall follow the methodology outlined in Preservation Brief 43 – The Preparation and Use of Historic Structures Reports published by the National Park Service (seehttp://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/briefs/brief43.htm). The HSR is used to substantiate the exceptional circumstances that warrant granting the exemption.
To see Mills Act and other historic buildings with lofts for sale in Downtown Los Angeles, contact:
Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499 Mobile
(877) 4LA-LOFT Office
(213) 232-7778 FAX
Business Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every daycorey@loftlivingla.comhttp://www.LAloftBlog.comLoft Living L.A., 1308 Factory Place, #112, Los Angeles, CA 90013Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with Loft Living L.A., Keller Williams Pasadena
Double Platinum award-winning Downtown living team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, California  91105
DRE#01889449
Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged| Comments Off

Studio 1700 Lofts – New Rentals in Downtown Los Angeles – Now Open for Lease

Studio 1700 Lofts Downtown Los Angeles

Studio 1700 Lofts Downtown Los Angeles

Studio 1700 Lofts New Rentals in Downtown Los Angeles

Studio 1700 Lofts New Rentals in Downtown Los Angeles

Now open, the Studio 1700 Lofts are the newest loft rentals in Downtown Los Angeles.   Technically in Boyle Heights right over the 4th Street bridge, the new loft apartments are conversions from a charming 0ld, historic brick industrial building.  They feature plenty of raw original wood floors and exposed brick, while upgraded with brand new kitchens, bathrooms, A/C and dual-pane windows.  SEE PHOTOS

To be among the first to see the new units, call Corey (213) 478-0499  |

MORE PHOTOS  |  MORE INFO  |  VIDEO

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Downtown Los Angeles Loft Real Estate Specialist Realtor

Corey Chambers, REALTOR®
(213) 478-0499
corey@loftlivingla.com

Corey Chambers is a Realtor® Downtown loft specialist with the Double Platinum award-winning Downtown L.A. team with volume over $15 million in 2010
Keller Williams Pasadena – 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105
DRE#01889449

LOFT BARGAINS & NEWS – L.A. Loft Blog: http://www.laloftblog.com

Posted inLofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged, , | 2 Comments

LOFTS DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES FOR SALE – Market Heats Up, Prepares to Skyrocket

Downtown L.A. lofts near Spring Street and 3rd

downtown-la-lofts-spring-street-3rd

After several years of falling prices in Downtown real estate, the agents at Loft Living L.A. began to notice some leveling in 2010, and then a few increases in the beginning of 2011.  By June of 2011, most prices were either level or increasing.  For a nice luxury condo in Bunker Hill, a buyer spent about $60,000 more than it was purchased for less than a year before.

Downtown never did get very many foreclosures.  Most Downtown agents now agree that the long spell of falling prices is over in Downtown.  Evan Fujii of Wilshire Metro Realty calls it “stabilized,” while Corey Chambers calls it “white hot!”

Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles are the best investment

Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles are the best investment

“Now most of the bargain hunters who put in offers at or below the comps are being outbid,” says Downtown specialist Realtor® Corey Chambers.  ”Only the properties outside of Downtown offer the comfort of allowing the placement of a low offer while expecting a purchase to likely occur.  In most parts of Downtown, an offer must be $20,000 to $80,000 above the comps in order to win a purchase.”  Most desirable lofts are receiving 3 to 10 offers within just a few days of a new listing.  Just this week, one hopeful buyer offered a whopping $100,000 above the asking price, hoping for a sure thing.  The huge offer was outbid by an even more aggressive offer.

Agents Corey Chambers, Drew Panico Discuss Downtown Real Estate Boom

Agents Corey Chambers, Drew Panico Discuss Downtown Real Estate Boom

One thing is for sure.   It is looking more and more like the next real estate boom has already begun in Downtown.  With the improving economy, bustling Downtown renaissance, and with the shrinking inventory of residential properties, Downtown condo and live/work loft prices are sure to keep trucking.  They could be among the best and smartest investments of all.  With prices at or near the bottom, and with the record low interest rates, buyers simply cannot go wrong in today’s market turn-around.

Posted inHome Buying, Lofts in Downtown Los Angeles| Tagged|Comments Off

Copyright © This free information provided courtesy L.A. Loft Blog and LAcondoInfo.com with information provided by Corey Chambers, Realty Source Inc, BRE#01889449 We are not associated with the homeowner’s association or developer. For more information, contact (213) 880-9910 or visit LAcondoInfo.com Licensed in California. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. This post is an archive backup for historic purposes, not intended to represent current information. Portions have been updated, but most has not. Properties subject to prior sale or rental. This is not a solicitation if buyer or seller is already under contract with another broker.