Nevada Energy Provides Perks for Las Vegas Real Estate Residents

September 1st, 2010

Moving trucks are being packed as I write. People are moving over the long weekend. Moving into a new(er) home may very well include updating old appliances, including that refrigerator that doesn’t have an ice or water dispenser. The one that won’t stop making that clicking noise, the one that you actually have to make the ice cubes by hand.

The months of September and October have often been considered the best time to purchase large appliances.  The new models are arriving. Out with the old and in with the new. The prices are reduced on the old models and Voila! You’ve got a fantastic sale (start looking over the Labor Day weekend).

Nevada Energy (formerly known as Nevada Power) has been providing energy to the Las Vegas Real Estate residents for over 100 years! They are in the business of providing not only energy but tools and resources for their patrons that allow them to reduce their overall energy costs. One such program is the Refrigerator Recycling Program. Here’s where Nevada Energy comes in.

  • If you are a Las Vegas Real Estate resident and own the home where the refrigerator is located, Nevada Energy will come pick it up for FREE!
  • They will take up to two refrigerators from the residence.
  • Up to 95% of the refrigerator is recycled!
  • Upon completion, they will send you a check for $30 per refrigerator!

How awesome is that? So, head out this weekend. Find the sales on the old but still new floor models, then call Nevada Energy at 1-877-289-8260 to recycle your old one. This is one of those times where it literally “pays” to recycle!

A Cool Tool for School: Libraries in Henderson Real Estate

August 30th, 2010

For many kids living in the Henderson Real Estate area, school starts today! Parents seem to be sighing relief or crying tears as the house will be a little quieter. Children have their first-day outfits picked out and are ready to see their friends again. With the hustle and bustle of the end of the summer family vacations, gathering up of all school supplies, searching for the best sales to buy the back to school clothes since they grew five inches this summer and finding who has the best deals on school uniforms, what else could a parent possibly be forgetting? Did you get your child a library card?

Yes, I am talking about a city of Henderson Public Library card! With five wonderful locations, Henderson libraries are where it’s at. Many families do not even consider this as an option, but the benefits are fantastic. Here are some highlights:

  • Check out books of all sorts for weeks at a time. Yes, they have new books, not just ones that were donated in the early 90s.
  • Free movies! Check out DVDs (new releases too). Did your kid have to take a sick day? You can check out up to 7 at a time. Save the Redbox fees and get them for free at the public library.
  • Free music and books on cd.
  • Use any of the computers and internet services that the library has to offer. Don’t have a computer at home? Go to the library and use theirs. All you need is your card.
  • Renew books online, reserve books online, search for materials online. The possibilities are endless.

Take your kid to the library! Instill in them a healthy respect for books, music and arts. You’ll find that there are numerous things available. They offer tutoring, free events throughout the year, story times, movie nights, concerts, an array of free classes, book clubs, writing clubs, even a 5k walk/run supporting the Henderson Libraries!

All you need is a photo id and proof that you’re a resident living in the Henderson Real Estate area. A recent utility bill with your name and address will work just fine.

Go to mypubliclibrary.com for more information on the Henderson Libraries.

Las Vegas Real Estate is Cleaning Up

August 27th, 2010

Have you ever heard of a tamarisk? It sounds like it could be an exotic herb or rare delicacy, but it is neither. The tamarisk is in the evergreen tree family and is also known as the salt cedar. With over 50 different species, these plants grow rampantly in salty areas. Many have made their home in the Las Vegas Real Estate area through the waterways.

The tamarisk takes root and as the roots lengthen and descend further down into the soil, it sucks up the salt from the soil. As times progresses, the tree will basically sweat out the salt through its leaves leaving a light covering of salt on the surrounding soil. Over time this salt builds up, creating large salt deposits that hinder water passage and growth to surrounding foliage. These deposits can only be washed away by heavy rains and since heavy rains are not that common in Las Vegas, it tends to be a problem.

Tamarisks rid of most of the plant competition in the area as they take all the salt and any water source below the surface with their incredible extensive root system. Along with robbing the soil in the sweating process, any plant that would survive is usually damaged by too much salt atop the surface. The tamarisk quickly takes over acreage along waterways, restricting water flow by crowding the area and by killing other plants necessary to keep waterways healthy.

Tamarisk removal in Las Vegas can only be successful if it is uprooted. The city of Henderson is currently in the process of eliminating the tamarisk as one of the larger focuses of Project Green. The city believes that tamarisk removal is one of the only ways to restore health and beauty to the surrounding waterways that have been encroached on and maimed by the tamarisk.

Mandatory Spay & Neutering for Pets in Henderson Real Estate?

August 25th, 2010

In July of 2010, the city of Henderson announced the likelihood of a new mandatory ordinance for pet owners. This law would require all pet owners in the Henderson Real Estate area to have any dogs and cats over the age of four months spayed or neutered.  Though this is nothing new in surrounding cities and certainly not new to cities in other states, the idea is causing a little controversy. The word “mandatory” usually incites a little panic.

To put it simply, there are thousands of animals in the city that are being forgotten. Unfortunately there are people who are losing their homes. The number of Henderson foreclosures continues to increase. Many of those families do not know what to do and simply pack up their belongings and leave and many times, the animals get left behind. Just the other day welcomehomenevada.com received a call from animal control, looking for any help we could provide in locating the real estate agent of a particular listed (not by us) property. A next-door neighbor had called to report animal neglect.

I can also recall a particular home that we listed that was in foreclosure and had been abandoned by the owner. Upon my arrival to inspect the property I noticed a terrible stench. I was later informed that animal control had been called the day before and had found numerous cats in the home. They had been in there for quite some time. The stories are more common than one might think.

In 2008 in Clark County alone there were over 50,000 animals taken to the pound, 6,400 of which were from Henderson. Of those impounded, 30,000 were put to sleep, 4,200 of which were from Henderson. Those numbers are staggering! It is no wonder that the city wants to pass the mandate. Common logic would seem to say that if we reduce the number of animals that are reproducing, then the number of animals that have to be put to sleep would decrease and that’s a good thing.

Las Vegas Home Inventory Stats

August 23rd, 2010

The increase in active homes for sale from our last report is significant.  As of today there are a total of 13,370 Las Vegas homes for sale.  In the report from 2 weeks ago there were 12,122.  We can certainly expect to see this number fluctuate but a net difference of 1,248 homes is a large increase.  Many of these are no doubt short sales but I’m guessing there are two primary factors influencing this increase in inventory.  The first influence is unsuccessful mediation.  When a home owner defaults on the loan they now have to go through a mediation process.  In this process bank and borrower try to work make arrangements for a continued relationship.  Many times this meeting is not successful resulting in the homeowner putting the house up for sale.

The second factor effecting inventory is a decrease in buyer demand.  While there are still many buyers out there I believe the demand is decreasing and will continue to due so through the end of the year.  We will probably see the supply outweigh the demand.

Seven Hills real estate has the highest priced sold home in the last 30 days. Here are the listing agent thoughts regarding this home, “exquisite Mediterranean Estate, golf frontage, full strip views, elevator, wine cellar, library, exercise room, home theater/game room, hand crafted travertine and hardwood floors, casita, auto pocket doors, pella windows, 4 car garage, gourmet kitchen, full bar, total indoor and out door living.  Attention to detail like no other and so much more.”  No doubt the new owner is enjoying the comforts this home has to offer.

Homes For Sale
SFR – 10,847
Condos – 1,646
Town Homes – 877
Highest List Price – $17,500,000 – Same 2 Summerlin Homes
Lowest List Price – $15,000 – Las Vegas Condo 15/Craig
Short Sales Listed – 6,324

Homes Under Contract
SFR – 11,154
Condo – 1,819
Town Homes – 884
Highest List Price – $3,500,000 Same Queensridge Home from last report
Lowest List Price – $10,900 Same condo from last report
Short Sales Under Contract – 9,738

Homes Sold (Last 30 days)
SFR – 2,697
Condo – 451
Town Home – 237
Highest List Price – $ 3,990,000 Seven Hills Home
Lowest List Price – $9,999 Same condo on Flamingo and Paradise
Short Sales Closed – 1049

Las Vegas Real Estate & Major League Baseball

August 20th, 2010

It is the talk of the town. It is the talk on the web. It is the talk on the sports networks and their blogs. It is one of the top three items on Mayor Oscar Goodman’s list of things to bring to the entertainment capital of the world, but is it going to happen?

The subject of bringing any type of professional sports team to the city of Las Vegas has been on the table being chewed on for years. Most believe that it will just sit on the table for the next city officials to chew on with never a decision in sight but the occasional two-week buzz about a anonymous conversation. Las Vegas Real Estate residents don’t really flinch when the mayor cries “Play Ball!”

The current two-week buzzworthy topic is centered around a twice occurring conversation with an American League team of which remains unnamed. Other major topics that continue to remain unknown are the location of a major league stadium, the city monies to build such a stadium, and the city’s ability to rally support and sell season tickets to maintain the stadium.

What is known is that while Las Vegas is a hot-spot for sports events such as boxing and UFC fights, most out-of-towners will be warming the cozy cushioned seats of an air-conditioned, free drinks while you play casino not the hard bench, dry heat, $5 beer stadium. They can do that at home. What they can’t do at home however is place a parlay bet on their team. My guess is that even if a major league team graces Las Vegas Real Estate residents with their presence, parlays won’t be taken on the local Las Vegas team.

Major League Baseball team in Las Vegas? FAIL.
Support the Las Vegas 51’s, the Minor League Baseball team that already exists!

Henderson Real Estate Featured Home: A Diamond in the Rough

August 16th, 2010

612 Desert Passage Street, Henderson, NV 89002

With 9,676 Single Family Residences currently for sale in the Henderson Real Estate area, it can be tough to find the perfect home for you. Well, we have just that. Located in the quiet outskirts of Henderson you will find the Horizon Heights community within which you will discover 612 Desert Passage Street. Horizon Heights is conveniently located on Horizon Ridge and Paradise Hills; near shopping, dining, and schools (including the College of Southern Nevada and Nevada State College) while still maintaining the small-town feel.

Henderson Featured Home

This home has recently had a price reduction (the second since it went on the market) to $129,900. Having sold for $365,661 in 2006; with the original list price on June 17, 2010 at $153,650, today’s price is irresistible considering the amount of home you are receiving. This home was built in 2006 with 3 bedrooms; 2.5 baths; 2 car garage; and 2161 square feet of living space.

Just a few of the amenities you will receive from this home are a gated community; tiles floors in the kitchen, dining and baths; custom cabinets; granite countertops in the kitchen; two stories of spacious living; balcony; and cemented covered patio. Although there are many great amenities in this home, it is a diamond in the rough and is just right for the home buyer who is looking to do a little sprucing up to make this house their perfect home. There are a few repairs required, but none measure up to the benefits of creating a one of a kind home neighbor to an array of Las Vegas homes.

Money Saving Tips for Las Vegas Real Estate Residents

August 13th, 2010

Every month I like to post a blog that falls under the topic of money. Last month I talked about Bank of America Resource Centers. This month’s blog is strictly for practical and fun purposes. The entry is simply about saving a little money when you go out. Why live in the entertainment capital of the world and not take a little advantage of it?

In times of recession, companies get creative offering various discounts on a variety of services. Some of these coupons may look good on your printer paper but upon redemption, the deal wasn’t so great after all and you might have been better off saving your computer ink. One company that I have found to be offering legitimate deals is restaurant.com.

Restaurant.com offers discounted coupons specific to the city you live in or may be visiting. With a quick online registration, simply input the zip code, city or state and voila! An extensive list is populated of eateries to choose from. For example, in the Las Vegas Real Estate area Village Pub & Poker, Mandalay Bay Resort- Mizuya Sushi and Sake, House of Blues, El Jefe and Memphis Barbeque are all participating restaurants. And that’s only a few from the 10 pages of results!

Since these are used frequently in my home, here are a few things to remember:

  • Make sure to read the restrictions carefully. Most of them are only valid during the week.
  • They all require that you purchase a certain amount before receiving the discount (i.e. $35 off purchase of $50). Hint: purchase as close to the amount as possible for the greatest discount.
  • You may only use one restaurant.com coupon per group, per month at the same restaurant.
  • Alcohol may or may not be included in the purchase. Ask the server.
  • Tell the server you are using the coupon BEFOREHAND. Most servers are okay with this coupon as they get an automatic 18% gratuity. Many servers have even helped us reach the amount by suggesting menu items.
  • Look at your bill carefully before paying. The breakdown should be the food + 18% gratuity – the coupon amount.

Once you purchase a coupon from restaurant.com, they frequently send you coupon codes for additional discounts, sometimes up to 80% off! Don’t forget that Henderson Real Estate has plenty of wonderful places to eat as well.

Bon Appetite!

Las Vegas Home Sales Information

August 11th, 2010

The lowest priced home that is actively on the market right now presents a unique situation I have never seen before. This Las Vegas condo is located at Cheyenne and Pecos in the Rio Robles Villas neighborhood. It is owned by Freddie Mac and considered a real fixer upper.

The listing agent is requesting that any interested buyers “must sign a mold disclosure before writing an offer.” Apparently this home has a mold problem. I cannot figure what real estate agent in their right mind would allow their client to accept this situation prior to writing an offer. It’s basically signing away the right to a contingency before even really knowing if the buyer should be concerned about mold. Typically this disclosure is provided by the seller once a price has been agreed upon. Banks, such as Freddie Mac, would not be held liable for something like this. These types of disclosures would be signed anyway as a part of the purchase. It’s just puzzling as to why this would come before writing an offer. This condo is being offered at $10,900. Like I said, it’s is a real fixer upper.

Looking at the homes that are currently under contract there is a new leader in the highest list price section. This beautiful Queensridge home is under contract with an asking price of $3,790,000. While much of the market is a bit distressed, this home is not a Las Vegas Foreclosure or a short sale. It does though require a court approval for sale. This typically happens in the case of a bankruptcy, divorce or estate issues. So there may be some complications with closing. Either way the home offers city and mountain views, stone floors and a lot size of 37,940 square feet.

Homes For Sale on the Las Vegas MLS
SFR – 9,676
Condos – 1,598
Town Homes – 848
Highest List Price – $17,500,000 – Same from last report
Lowest List Price – $10,900 North Las Vegas Condo.
Short Sales Listed – 5,602

Under Contract
SFR – 10,441
Condo – 1,826
Town Homes – 871
Highest List Price – $3,500,000 Queensridge Home
Lowest List Price – $9,999 Flamingo and Paradise, Bank Owned
Short Sales Under Contract – 9,355
Closed (Last 30 days)
SFR-2,773
Condo – 459
Town Home – 230
Highest List Price – $ 3,999,000 Summerlin Home
Lowest List Price – $15,000 a studio condo at 95 and Rancho
Short Sales Closed – 1,054

In-n-Out Burger: A Las Vegas Real Estate Favorite

August 9th, 2010

Las Vegas Resident: “So, where would you like to eat tonight? I know you’re only here for a couple days but where would you like to go? What would you like to see?”

Las Vegas Visitor: “Oh man! Every time I come to town I have to go to In–n-Out Burger! I could eat there every day I’m here!”

And so is the conversation for many residents and their visitors. In–n-Out Burger is the place to go and people are headed to that famous red and white sign with the big yellow arrow.

Started in 1948 by Harry and Esther Snyder, their philosophy was to “give customers the freshest, highest quality foods you can buy and provide them with friendly service in a sparkling clean environment” (in-n-out.com). While many fast food restaurants have made that claim, over time quality and freshness usually dwindles as the bottom line becomes more important. This statement could not be further from the truth for In-n-Out Burger. You will not find a microwave or freezer on the premises, only refrigerators of fresh beef and bins full of real potatoes for their crisp (not soggy) french fries straight from the potato slicer.

Not only was In-n-Out Burger founded on a great philosophy but it was the first ever hamburger drive thru in the state of California! The menu is simple, with only a few choices: burgers with the basic extras, fries, drinks and shakes. Order straight from the menu or if you are so privy, order from their secret menu.

Locations are scattered throughout California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. Twelve of those In–n-Outs are conveniently placed about Las Vegas Real Estate for both the resident and those passing through to enjoy.