House or Condo?

Can't decide between a house and a condo? Consider these questions-

Location-Where do you want to be? Are there options for both condos and single-family houses in the area?

Privacy- Is it important to you to have complete privacy or do you find close neighbors to be a comfort?

Maintenance- Are you a homebody who enjoys getting dirty in the yard? Or are you delighted by the idea of never having to cut the grass?

Budget- How much do you have to spend? Depending on where you want to live, a condo may be the only option that meets your budget.

Responsibility- Do you need total control over decision affecting your home or are you attracted to the idea of sharing decision- making with your neighbors?

Are you ready to buy your first home?

Are you ready to buy your first home? Here are some important aspects of home buying to consider and help you decide if you're ready to buy.

-Are you familiar with the market? If you pay attention to listing prices in the neighborhood and have a realistic view of how much a home will cost you, you're off to a good start. You have to be realistic and understand that (depending on your budget) you're most likely not going to get everything on your wish list. 

-Do you know what your home buying budget is? Your monthly mortgage payment should be less than or equal to a percentage of your income. Your income, debt, and credit score are all taken into account as to how much you can borrow for your down payment.

-Do you have the money for a down payment and closing costs? The down payment is the percentage of the value of the property. This percentage is determined by the type of mortgage you select. Closing costs include points, taxes, title insurance, financing costs, and prepaid items or settlement costs. 

-Is your credit report accurate and at a good number? Lenders will view your credit history to determine whether they'll give you a loan. You should get credit reports from at least three credit report companies. Some reputable ones include Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union. 

-Do you know that there are addition expenses to your down payment when it comes to buying a home? Expenses include homeowners insurance, utility bills, maintenance costs (heating and cooling, roofing, and plumbing).

-Have you made any recent big purchases? If you recently bought a car for example, you may have a harder time finding a lender to give you a loan or it could potentially lower the amount you get approved for.

So how did you do? If you feel you are ready to buy a home and Palos Verdes is the place you want to live then we cannot wait to help you find that perfect place for you to call home! 

www.palosverdeshomesandrealestate.com

Eat at Joe's in Redondo Beach

Joe's has been serving up great breakfasts all day along with burgers, sandwiches and dinner entrees since 1969. The large picnic-style tables at Joe's are perfect for big families or grouped and the restaurant offers free wi-fi. Kids eat free from 4pm-9pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  Specialties includes the John Wayne-spanish sauce and cheese over two eggs sitting on top of home fries with a tortilla on the bottom and sausage on the side. 

Ortega 120

Ortega 120, Redondo Beach

With a name derived from a menu of 120 tequila varieties, this award-winning restaurant offers a variety of dishes that blend flavors from Oaxaca, Mexico City and Southern California. Enjoy your meal in one the restaurant's dining rooms or the breezy-covered patio. Happy hour specials are available Monday through Friday 4pm-6pm. On game nights, customers can watch the sporting event of the moment on a retractable big screen while munching down on food included in the $10 and $12 game baskets. 

Redondo Beach Cafe

Redondo Beach Cafe, Redondo Beach

This diner-style cafe, complete with spacious booths, counter seating and several big screen TVs, is a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner with family and friends. The diner boasts a diverse menu with options ranging from Greek favorites like leg of lamb to Canadian specialties like the Montreal smoked meat to American classics like burger and fries. The restaurant also offers a menu of health-conscious options, like lime garlic shrimp, veggie wraps and broiled ahi tuna steak. All items on this menu are free of added fats, oil, and salt. 

Pedone's Pizzeria in Redondo Beach

Pedone's Pizza and Deli, Redondo Beach- Pedone's Pizzeria is know by the local as the one of the best pizzerias in the South Bay. Pedone's serves hand-tossed New-York style pizza, buffalo wings, nearly two dozen sandwiches, and eight different types of pasta with an array of sauces to choose from. It signature dish is its New York-style pizza and specialties include meatball sandwich, buffalo wings, and lasagna. 

Redondo Beach Brewing Company, Redondo Beach

In the trendy walking area of Catalina Avenue, Redondo Beach Brewing Company is the destination for unique beer, American food with Southwestern flare, sports viewing and neighborhood camaraderie. With signature dishes like the Southwester penne pasta, the vaquero steak and the honey-lime grilled salad, this restaurant has made it its priority to specialize in more than just beer. Exotic beer flavors are definitely the signature though, including its most popular beer- blueberry where. With is neighborhood pub feel and several flat screens tuned to various sports games, the atmosphere appeals to various age groups. there is also a high-tech juke box for those who are musically inclined. 

Marmalade Cafe

Marmalade Cafe

An elegant restaurant in the Promenade on the Peninsula Shopping Center, projects a warm ambience. The excellent food embraces several styles- south of the border, italian and even some Cajun items. It boasts sunny outdoor patios as well as indoor booths and tables.  Its signature dishes include the Marmalade Cafe Burger with Sweet potato fries. 

Noah's Bagel

Noah's Bagels, Rolling Hills Estates

Noah's is the best bagel shop on the hill. Offering bagels (of course), sandwiches, wraps, salads, and bagel dogs, Noah's is the best Sunday morning treat along with the Sunday newspaper. The shop also does catering and bulk orders. Don't forget to order a dozen bagels to enjoy during the week! 

Saluzzi Italian Restaurant

Saluzzi Italian Restaurant, Rancho Palos Verdes

Located in the Golden Cove Shopping Center, Saluzzi specializes in classic Italian cuisine. It offers a white tablecloth atmosphere and award winning cuisine with an innovative French flair. While dining, patrons can enjoy views of Catalina Island, San Nicolas Island, and the Malibu coastline. This restaurant holds many special events, wine dinners, cooking classes, and one-on-one sessions with the chef. 

Admiral Risty

Admiral Risty, Rancho Palos Verdes

Admiral Risty has been around since 1966. The secret to its longevity, besides serving great steaks and seafood. Two, and now three generations of local families have been coming here for a special night out. Visit the website or stop by to learn about the delicious surf and turf cuisine. Their specialty is the Risty's Flank Steak. 

The Original Red Onion

The Original Red Onion, Rolling Hills Estates

This family owned restaurant has been in business since 1963. Red Onion offers a wide selection of Sonoran-style mexican dishes. Reservations are recommended for parties of five or more. Specialties include margaritas and signature dishes include chicken tacos and shrimp la paz. 

Grill Du Chateau, Rolling Hills Estates

Grill Du Chateau, Rolling Hills Estates

As the owner says, "drink, dine, and love." Grill Du Chateau is the kind of restaurant that can make you believe in that philosophy. Rated by Zagat, the restaurant serves the finest steaks, poultry, and seafood with French sauces. There is a full bar with Plasma TV and piano. Its specialty is the Filet Mignon and signature dishes include the Biftek de Rib Eye and Prime Flat Iron Steaks.