Bellagio Conservatory: 2011 Chinese New Year

Went to Bellagio last week and took some pics of their Chinese New Year display in the conservatory. It is beautiful in person so if you get a chance go check it out.

Looking for Las Vegas real estate?

Use our Las Vegas MLS search or Las Vegas Home Finder.

Saturday in the Park: Anthem Hills

Today we feature Anthem Hills located in the Henderson master planned community of Anthem.  Anthem Hills is just one park located in this beautiful Henderson community.  This 55 acre park has ball parks, basketball courts, a skate park, volleyball, covered picnic areas, and play areas for the kids.

If you are interested in receiving information about homes for sale in Anthem (Zip Codes 89144 and 89052) use our Las Vegas Home Finder.




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Where Is My Remote?

Image: Rasmus Thomsen / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

A thing to remember when purchasing a Las Vegas bank owned home is that certain items that are normally passed along to the buyer are no longer available.  These items include: mailbox keys, garage remotes, house keys, gate keys/remotes, community amenity access cards, and appliance manuals.  Sometimes these items will be in the house in a drawer or closet.  Most of the times they are long gone.

When you move in you will be responsible for purchasing these items either from the local hardware store, post office, or your homeowners association.

Ahh, the joys of home ownership. 

Use our Las Vegas Home Finder to find your Las Vegas dream home. 

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Things to Consider When Buying a Las Vegas Condo
What is this Form? Things you will get in the mail after closing

Las Vegas Deals and Happy Hours

Here are a few deals and happy hours around town that might interest you.

Regal Value Days: Regal Cinemas has $5 movie days and nights at Green Valley Ranch Station (Henderson), Collonade Stadium 14 (Eastern/Pecos), and Fiesta Henderson Stadium 12 (Henderson). 

Seniors Day at Southpoint Cinemark Cinema: Monday - Friday before 4 p.m. with a Southpoint players card the admission price is $3.00 (Wow!).

Las Vegas Happy Hours:  Visit Las Vegas Happy Hour Time for a great list of local happy hours.  There are some great deals at all times of the day and all over town.

Cirque du Soleil: Currently offering great deals for locals. Check it out.

That is it.  Short but sweet!

Visit my Las Vegas Homes site to get information on Las Vegas 55 plus communities, Las Vegas condos, and more.

Summerlin Neighborhood: Royal Woods - Zip Code 89144

Today we take a look at a Las Vegas Summerlin neighborhood called Royal Woods in zip code 89144. This neighborhood is located in the Arbors Village and is close to several parks and has easy access to 215.

The community is not gated and features one - two story homes built between 1998 and 2000.  They have three to five bedroom plans available with lots ranging from just under 5000 sq. ft. up to approximately 9700 sq. ft.

Interested in receiving an email with a list of homes for sale in the Summerlin area click here. 



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Summerlin park: The Arbors Paseo Park

Las Vegas Home Buyers: Be Responsible

Image: Michal Marcol / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Buying a home is exciting. Often buyers will take much time reviewing listings and viewing homes.  That is the fun part.

However, once the offer documents come out buyers often sit back and get that "I'm just along for the ride" look.

Not a good idea.  

Buyers need to take responsibility for their home purchase.

This means:

• reading all offer, counter offer, and addendum documents (or get a real estate attorney to review);
• attending the home inspection (if possible) and asking the inspector questions;
• reviewing the inspection report and asking for estimates or additional inspections if wanted;
• reviewing all lender documentation and keeping in contact with lender;
• reviewing all documents in general that are involved in the transaction;
• attending the final walk through.

Buyers need to be active participants in the home purchase. The transaction rests in the buyer's hands, not the real estate agent, lender, or title officer.  Buyers need to speak up and ask questions.

Looking for a Las Vegas home?   
Visit our Las Vegas Homes web site to view MLS listings, get listing information via email with our Las Vegas Home Finder, and view pictures of beautiful Las Vegas 55 plus, Las Vegas guard gated, and Las Vegas Condo communities.

Saturday in The Park: The Arbors in Summerlin Paseo Park

Looking for more areas to walk around?  Paseo Park is a linear park located in The Arbors, a Summerlin village.  Paseo Park links The Arbors: Tennis and Play Park and The Arbors: Tree Top Park.   It features a nice winding pathway with green space along the way to rest.  Great walk on any day because the the path is paved and even. 

Receive a list of Las Vegas homes for sale via email - start here.



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Summerlin Park: Tree Top Park
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Local Spotlight: Joy's Teaspoon

Did you know that January is National Hot Tea Month?  Yummy.  Tea is one of my favorite things.  If you love tea you will want to visit Joy's Teaspoon, a locally owned, online tea shop.

I have been fortunate to attend two tea tastings at Ganesha Center put on by Naomi Rosen, owner of Joy's Teaspoon.  Naomi is knowledgeable and passionate about teas.  I have learned so much from her.  She stocks a wide range of quality teas and spices.  In addition, she offers a wide range of tea accessories.

Right now, my favorite tea is Almond Cookie.  This tea tastes amazing.  Imagine drinking an almond cookie. It also has a beautiful pink hue.   She recently has started carrying a line of aryuvedic teas which are caffeine free and good for you.

You should definitely browse her shop and also read her tea blog.  She has had some interesting posts lately concerning tea and raw foodies and a sipping profile of Lady Gaga!

Have fun and enjoy a nice cup of tea today!

Multiple Offers: What is a Buyer to Do?

Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I talk to someone every day who tells me, "I don't want to get involved in multiple offers."  However, in today's market it is difficult to avoid this situation.  Honestly, two offers on one property constitutes a multiple offer situation.

I tell my buyers not to stress out over  multiple offers. The existence of multiple offers should NOT affect your offer.  You will look at what similar homes have sold for in the area.  That will give you a basic range of sales prices. You will then decide upon an offer price that takes into account the condition of the home and also your feelings about the home.

It is always best to make your best offer up front because you may not get another chance.  Sometimes sellers will send out a call for everyone to submit their highest and best offer.  Sometimes this does not happen.

Don't let multiple offers stress you out.  Make your best offer and go from there.  If you lose out, there is always going to be another home that comes on the market that meets your needs.

Looking for a Las Vegas Home? Use our Las Vegas Home Finder to receive information via email.  Fast and Easy!

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Henderson, Nevada Condos

The District at Green Valley Ranch

 I've featured many gorgeous Henderson, Nevada condos on this Las Vegas real estate blog.  Henderson, Nevada is a city adjacent to Las Vegas.  Most people think it is far away from The Strip or McCarran Airport.  Not true, some parts of Henderson are easily within 15 - 20 minutes from these area.

These condos have both sales and rentals available.

View a more extensive list at my Las Vegas condos page.  

Peppertee Townhomes - (Zip Code 89014) nice well established community with community pools, spa, tennis courts, and some RV parking.

Bella Vista - (Zip Code 89012)  ideal location across from Green Valley Ranch Station, The District, and walking distance to many beautiful parks. 

Receive a list of condos for sale in your email box. Super easy, just tell me what you are looking for and I'll send your list out.

The Gables - (Zip Code 89052) small complex in a fanastic location.  Close to shopping and minutes from Green Valley Ranch Station and The District.

Aspen Peak -  located within the established neighborhood of South Valley Ranch. This complex is off of Boulder Highway and features nice amenities, green space, and a park across the street.

Horizons at Seven Hills - in the master planned community of Seven Hills.  Great location with a fantastic pool area.

The Villas at Solera - 55 plus townhome community in Solera at Anthem.  Nice recreation center with an indoor pool, spa, fitness area, and community activities.

The District at Green Valley Ranch - luxury condos located above a shopping area.  Some condos feature excellent view of the Las Vegas Strip. 

Traverse Point - gated complex.  Located down the street from The Galleria Mall and Sunset Station.

Receive a list of condos for sale in your email box. Super easy, just tell me what you are looking for and I'll send your list out.

Utility Contact List for Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas

When turning on utilities make sure that each has your correct mailing address.  In order to not miss a bill due to mailing issues it is best to sign up for online statements.

NV Energy - Electricity
Online start, stop or transfer service
Customer Service: 702-402-5555 or 1-800-331-3103

Southwest Gas
Online start, stop or transfer service
Customer Service: 877-860-6020

Republic Services - Trash/Recycling
Customer Service: 702-735-5151

Water:
Las Vegas - Las Vegas Valley Water District
Online start, stop or transfer service
Customer Service: 702-870-4194

North Las Vegas - City of North Las Vegas Utilities
Customer Service: 702-633-1275

Henderson - City of Henderson Utilities
Customer Service: 702-267-5900

Sewer:
Unincorporated Clark County - Clark County Water Reclamation
Customer Service: 702-434-6600

Las Vegas - City of Las Vegas Sewer Services
Customer Service: 702-229-1289

North Las Vegas - City of North Las Vegas Utilities
Customer Service: 702-633-1275

Henderson - City of Henderson Utilities

Customer Service: 702-267-5900


Thanks for stopping by!  

Check out my Las Vegas Homes web site to view Las Vegas 55 plus communities, Las Vegas condos, and search the Las Vegas MLS 24/7.

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Congrats you are a homeowner.  Now what?

Saturday in The Park: Arbors Tennis and Play Park

Is it Saturday already?  Well, I'm working today, but you can enjoy one of our gorgeous parks in town.  Today, we feature Arbors Tennis and Play Park in beautiful Summerlin.

Arbors Tennis and Play Park features lighted tennis courts, host the a local tennis program, nice open green space, and also a great play area, Arborville,  for the kids.

This park is located the Summerlin village known as The Arbors.

Receive a list of homes available in this area by contacting me.


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Southern Highlands: Somerset Park
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Things to Consider when Buying a Las Vegas Condo

Want to buy a Las Vegas condo?  Let's talk.

Do you want to be on the top floor or on the bottom? 
Top floor means stairs which can be annoying when you are hauling a load of groceries (unless you are in a building with an elevator).  Bottom unit can mean you get to hear your upstairs neighbors aerobics routine at 6 a.m. in the morning.


 
What is the parking situation?
If you need extra storage then a garage is a nice bonus.  Also, an attached garage can give you added safety when exiting your auto to your place.  If a garage is not available then covered parking is essential in our summer months. If you plan on having guests it is nice to get a feel for the open space parking available in the complex.

Gated or not?
Condos in vegas can be guard gated, gated, or non-gated.  Guard gated will carry the most monthly fees and the most security.  Gated will offer a layer of security.  However, remember it is easy to follow someone into a complex.


What amenities do you want in a complex?
Pool, spa, tennis, raquetball, fitness center, children's play area - these are a few amenities offered in some of our condo complexes.

Is this cash or will you finance?
Some complexes cannot be financed and are cash only deals.  Check the subdivisions with your lender to make sure that financing is available.

Investment or owner occupied?
Most complexes in town allow rentals.  However, they put a cap on how many units can be rented out in a complex.  The homeowners association should be able to give you this information.  Ask your real estate agent to give you the number so you can find out.

Just a few things to consider in addition to price and location.
Looking for Las Vegas Condos?  Visit our site for information and pictures.

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Las Vegas Guard Gated Condos

I've featured quite a few Las Vegas guard gated condos in this Las Vegas real estate blog.  I thought it was time to combine them in one post so you could easily find them.  This is not the entire list, but I plan to eventually set up a separate page on my Las Vegas homes web site for these types of condos.  Meanwhile, I encourage you to check out my Las Vegas condos page.  It is full of information and pictures of various condos in town (gated, guard gated, and non-gated).

Manhattan Condos - located just off the South Las Vegas Strip.  Great complex with a community pool, spa, exercise rooms, fantastic green space in middle of community, gargoyles on roof tops, and much more.

Sedona on the Boulevard - located South  Las Vegas Strip.  Community pool, spa, raquetball, fitness area.  Nice open complex.

Park Avenue - located just of South Las Vegas Strip (near Manhattan). Community pool, spa, and clubhouse.

Bella Vita - located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. An older more established complex with various community pools, spa, and fitness areas through out the community.  

Village Green at Las Vegas Country Club - Nice open and green complex located within the Las Vegas Country Club.  Fitness area and several community pools/spas are available for residents.

Remember you can view slideshows and get more information at our Las Vegas Condos page.

Thanks for stopping by!

_______________________________________________

Cindy performs. Simply tell her what you are looking for, selling your property, buying for your residence, vacation home, or investment and she can facilitate whatever is needed. From sending real estate forms to banks, telling you why the seller is acting the peculiar way they are, why a deal fell apart, or if another party's request is even rational, Cindy can navigate the Short Sale/REO landscape like few others can.

         Joe and Maria Hopkins

_________________________________________________

St. Rose Dominican Hospital - San Martin Campus

The St. Rose Domincan Hospital  - San Martin Campus is located in the SW part of town at 8280 West Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas, NV 89113.  It is a full service hospital and offers emergency services.   ER Wait times for this hospital can be found here.  The hospital phone number is: 702-492-8000.

Nearby Las Vegas master planned neighborhoods include Rhodes Ranch, Coronado Ranch, and Mountains Edge.  We've featured a few on this Las Vegas real estate blog including: Coronado Palms, Chateau Nouveau, and  Sunset Cliffs.

For more information about homes in SW Las Vegas or any other area of our town (including Henderson and North Las Vegas) contact us via email or call/text: 702-807-3339. 

Surprises Don't Work In Real Estate

Communication is very important in order to get a real estate transaction from the looking at homes stage to closing.  Often, clients are reluctant to share information that they perceive to be "bad" and this can cause tremendous problems in a deal.  Sometimes clients simply neglect to share something because they don't think it is relevant.

As far as I am concerned there is no "bad or irrelevant" news as long as I find out about it right away.  That gives me time to try to find a solution to the issue.

So, if any of the following occur or will occur during our time together please let me know as soon as possible.

Vacation Plans
If you are going to be out of town please make sure that I know and give me your contact numbers where you can be reached while you are away. It never fails, you leave town and I need something signed by you right away.  Not a good time to find out that you are on a cruise and access is limited. 

Search the Las Vegas MLS 24/7

Change in Job Circumstances
You are laid off or your hours are cut back.  Even though you have an approval on your loan don't think that this new situation will not affect you.  Often the underwriter will review your file prior to closing and even make calls to your work place to confirm all information.   

Las Vegas 55 Plus Homes

Illness or Surgery
Accidents or emergencies can happen.  Often these can be stressful and demand your full attention.  Let me know if something is happening in your life that could affect your real estate deal.  We may have to postpone our search or even get you out of the contract until your life calms down.  The more I know about your personal situation the more I am able to help smooth things along with your real estate deal.

Get a list of Las Vegas homes information via email

"Cash" Deals
When you say you are paying cash for a home that means you have the cash in hand.  If the cash is in your retirement account or you need to pull the equity from your home (yes, some people still have equity) that is not cash.  Your account executive or home re-finance person may tell you it will take only days to get the money.  However, the reality is that sometimes days turns into weeks.  Which can leave you in a precarious position when you have to close and funds are not available. 

Too much information doesn't bother me.  I can weed through that and focus on what is important.  Too little information can cause unnecessary stress in your deal and sometimes can put your earnest money deposit in jeopardy.  Don't make the mistake of not telling me something that I need to know.

Thanks everyone!  Hope you have a fantastic week.

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Saturday in the Park: Summerlin Arbors Tree Top Park

Looking for a place to hang out today?  How about the Tree Top Park in the Arbors village in Summerlin?  5.2 acres of fun where you can use the fantastic green space, have a picnic, play t-ball, swing, or walk the Arbors Paseo Park to the Arbors Tennis and Play Park.

Receive Las Vegas homes information in your email. Tailored to your search.  Click here it is super easy!



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What is this Form? Things You Will Get In The Mail After Closing.

Image: bulldogza / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

You've closed!  Congratulations.  Let the mail begin.

Title Closing Package:
Check the documents you signed at closing to see if you opted to receive this via mail or if you are supposed to pick up the package from the title company office. If it is being mailed, this package should be received within a week of closing.  It will have your final HUD statement and any check for amounts due to you (if any). 

Home Warranty:
Within two weeks of closing you should receive your home warranty booklet.  It will explain what is covered and what is not under your home warranty.  Check with your real estate agent to find out if you have basic covereage or any extras.  You can also pay for any additional coverage on the home that you wish to add.

Homestead Exemption Form:
The number one item I get calls on from clients is the homestead exemption forms sent out by various companies.  These companies, for a fee, will process this for you.  You can easily do this yourself and save some money.  Visit this link to get to the form and instructions on where to send it.

Utility Bills:
Seems pretty basic.  But often people do not get their utility bills and end up having the lights turned off on their home due to non-payment.  If you don't receive a bill within 30 days then contact the utility company and check to see what address they have on file for you.  This has been an issue with my Canadian clients who purchase vacation properties in town. It is best to opt for online statements so you don't miss anything.

Those are the biggies.  You will also be getting tons of solicitations for window coverings and other such home items.  Those will taper off after a month.

Interested in Vegas Real Estate?  Visit our Las Vegas Homes site to search Las Vegas MLS listings, view Las Vegas 55 Plus communities, Las Vegas Condos, and Las Vegas Guard Gated Areas.

Thanks for stopping by!

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Manhattan Condos - Las Vegas Strip Condo Community

Looking for luxury condo just off the Las Vegas Strip without the outrageous homeowners association fees?  Manhattan fits!

Las Vegas Guard Gated Condos

Built from 2006 - 2007, this guard gated condo complex features a community pool, spa, BBQ areas, fitness center, community rooms, basketball courts, playground area, tennis courts, and a fantastic interior green park.  It is located just off the Las Vegas Strip near the Southpoint Hotel and Casino.  The zip code is 89123.

Get a list of Las Vegas condos or homes via email.

There are one to three bedroom units with both one and two story plans available.  Square footages range from approx. 817 - 1729.  Each building has interior walk ways and elevators. Underground and open space parking are available through out the community.

Interested in viewing other Las Vegas condos? 
Visit our list of area condos (yes, there are slide shows).



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Las Vegas Condos - Mariposa in NW - Zip Code 89108

Las Vegas Condos - Mariposa in NW - Zip Code 89108

Las Vegas Condos: Mariposa
(scroll down to view community slideshow)

"Just living is not enough," said the butterfly, "one must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower."  ~Hans Christian Anderson

Looking for a great Las Vegas condo complex in the NW part of town?  Mariposa may be your place.  This complex is located in zip code 89108 and is near Cheyenne and 95.

Built in the mid 90's this gated complex has a clubhouse, exercise room, and community pool and spa. There are two and three bedroom units with attached garages.

Interested in this Las Vegas condo?  Contact us today (please let us know the name of the complex that interests you).

Search the Las Vegas MLS for other Las Vegas condos or visit our Las Vegas Condos page to view slideshows of other available condos.
Slideshow for Mariposa:




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Las Vegas Summerlin Condos: Red Bluffs

Bella Vita condos - guard gated and near The Strip

Learn and Have Fun! Las Vegas Personal Enrichment Programs at UNLV

Image: AKARAKINGDOMS / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Does one of your resolutions involve having more fun or broadening your horizons?  You might want to check out the latest offerings at UNLV. 

Some interesting classes in the UNLV 2011 Spring Continuing Education Catalog  are:

• How to Make a (Cheap) Feature Film in Two Weekends;
• Taste of Wines;
• Chili Pepper Madness (cooking class); and
• Belly Dancing.

There are also yoga, dance, woodworking, language, photography, computer and other classes available.  To view the catalog click here. 

Enjoy!

Looking for Las Vegas Homes? 

Visit our Las Vegas Real Estate site and search the Las Vegas MLS 24/7.

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Related Posts:
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Happy New Year!

Image: scottchan / FreeDigitalPhotos.ne

Out with the old and in with the new!  That's right it is 2011 and we have a new green look.  We also re-designed our main Las Vegas homes web site.

Why green?

According to one website the color green:

...contains the powerful energies of nature, growth, desire to expand or increase. Balance and a sense of order are found in the color green. Change and transformation is necessary for growth, and so this ability to sustain changes is also a part of the energy of green.

Wishing everyone a joy-filled, healthy and prosperous new year!