FINAL Sfj Header
 
Contact      SFJ Group       Listings       Property Search       Blog      News & Media
310.691.7888
150 S. Rodeo Drive, Suite 100
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
CalBRE# 00558939
Follow SFJ Group

 Find us on Pinterest  Like us on Facebook  Follow us on Twitter  View our videos on YouTube
In This Issue
 Mortgage Rates Defy Forecast
 Nearly Half of All Homes Sales- Cash Deals
 Pocket Listings
 In Escrow
 Sold
 Coming Soon
 SFJ Group YouTube
 New Listings & Leases
LATEST NEWS
MORTGAGE RATES DEFY FORECAST - LATIMES.COM
 

As 2014 arrived, experts were confident that the 30-year mortgage rate would rise to at least 5% this year as the Federal Reserve cut back a bond-buying program, which had depressed the rates to unheard-of lows in 2013.    

 

So much for the experts. The Fed has reduced purchases to $20 billion a month in mortgage bonds, down from $40 billion when the program began in September 2012. Yet lenders this week were offering 30-year fixed home loans at an average of 4.2%, the lowest rate in six months, according to home finance giant Freddie Mac.   

 

According to one leading Southland mortgage broker, Jeff Lazerson, certain borrowers with excellent credit are once again able to get 30-year loans with fixed rates a smidge under 4%.

 

"We've got our mojo back," said Lazerson, president of the Mortgage Grader brokerage in Laguna Niguel.

 

Wiping some egg off their faces, economists said unforeseen factors have led worried investors to embrace the safety of high-quality bonds this year. And when demand for bonds rises, their effective interest rates fall. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note, at 3% when the year began, has slipped to about 2.6%, and home lending rates have followed, as they generally do.

 

Rising rates had largely choked off a huge boom in refinancing, which enabled millions of homeowners to lower their borrowing costs as the 30-year rate declined from more than 6% in early 2008 to below 4%. It bottomed out at less than 3.5% in late 2012 and again in May 2013.

 

   

Read Full Article 

  

NEARLY HALF OF ALL HOME SALES ALL-CASH DEALS - CNNMONEY.COM
 
All-cash deals hit a record 43% of home sales during the first three months of 2014, according to RealtyTrac. That's up from 19% a year earlier and the highest level reported since RealtyTrac began tracking the deals in early 2011.


The jump is due to two main factors: strict lending standards that make it difficult to get a mortgage and intense buyer competition.


"Inventory shortages, as well as lending regulations favor the all-cash buyer," said Chris Pollinger of First Team Real Estate in Southern California.


Even buyers who would ordinarily finance their purchases are making all-cash offers to appear more attractive to sellers, said Daren Blomquist, vice president at RealtyTrac.


"If they have the ability to, homebuyers will put up cash bids just to jump to the front of the line," he said.


After all, cash deals stand a better chance of closing on time. Buyers dependent on financing may run into snags due to strict mortgage underwriting standards.

 

   

Read Full Article 

  

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL OUR PROPERTIES �
POCKET LISTINGS

Little Holmby
$2,100,000
IN ESCROW
Prices Indicate Asking Price

Wailea Beach Villas B101

Wailea, HI

$9,950,000

 

1723 Moraga Dr

Bel Air

$7,995,000

 

1801 Westridge Rd

Brentwood

$4,995,000 

 

11507 Orum Rd  

Bel Air 

$3,795,000

644 S. Orange Dr
Hancock Park
$2,795,000

163 S. Larchmont Blvd
Hancock Park
$2,389,000

9504 Highridge Dr
Beverly Hills Post Office
$1,795,000

8535 Eastwood Rd
Hollywood Hills
$1,699,000

3025 Benedict Canyon Dr
BHPO
$1,695,000

3501 McLaughlin Ave
Mar Vista
$929,000

2131 Ivar Ave
Hollywood Hills
$889,000

1121 S. Highland Ave
Hancock Park
$849,500

530 S. Barrington Ave #206
Brentwood
$569,000

1133 Tower Road
Beverly Hills
Off Market

 

SOLD 
Prices Indicate Asking Price

 

9315 Nightingale Rd

Sunset Strip

$6,995,000  

 

11610 Bellagio Rd

Bel Air

$3,995,000

 

328 El Camino Dr.

Beverly Hills

$3,650,000  

 

6235 Drexel Ave
Beverly Center
$2,495,000 

 

540-548 S. State St
Anaheim
$1,690,000  

 

6414 Moore Dr
Carthay Circle
$1,799,000

 

596 Entrada Dr

Santa Monica

$1,375,000

 

2245 Bronson Hill Dr
Hollywood Hills
$1,199,000

 

13600 Marina Pointe Dr #806

Marina Del Rey

$895,000

 

9124 W. 24th St
Beverlywood 
$885,000   

 

8611 Burton Way #18

Beverly Center

$749,000

 

4050 Glencoe Ave #205

Marina Del Rey

$569,000

 

700 Westmount Dr

West Hollywood

$525,000

 

10501 Wilshire Blvd. #1704

Wilshire Corridor

$495,000

 

1400 N. Hayworth Ave #9
West Hollywood
$349,000  

 


COMING SOON

220 N. Plymouth Blvd
Hancock Park
Price Upon Request

9103 Gibson St
Beverlywood
Price Upon Request

3131 S. Canfield Ave #108
Beverlywood
$329,999



GREETINGS FROM SALLY,
May 22, 2014

This past month has been full of exciting changes and new ventures! We are settling in at John Aaroe Group where I was recently offered the opportunity to head their newly created division as the President of Aaroe International Luxury Properties. Since joining John Aaroe Group, I have been overwhelmed with the professionalism, support, and innovative thinking which has already opened many doors for our team and for our clients!

 

In addition, I am so excited to introduce the Enclave at Century Woods which is an ultra-luxurious new development project located within Century Woods, in the heart of Century City. This incredible collection of 10 luxurious, individually designed villa homes provides an incomparable living experience. Each brand new villa is designed with top of the line materials and finishes with amenities for every conceivable comfort! We have been inundated with interest for this exceptional community and with only 10 opportunities to own, this is an incredibly exciting and exclusive project. We are now selling so please feel free to contact me directly for additional information.

 

Wishing everyone a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! 

 

 

Best wishes,  

 

  

SFJ GROUP YOUTUBE
     
FEATURED LISTING
2539 Benedict Canyon Drive, Beverly Hills Real Estate
2539 Benedict Canyon,
Beverly Hills Post Office: $6,288,000

 


 
4718 White Oak Ave.
Encino$3,899,000

NEW LISTINGS & LEASES

290 Strada Corta Road, Bel Air     
 $12,950,000 

 
Enveloped in utter privacy, gated, & approached via a long circular drive, this 6+8.5 authentic mid-century, by renowned architect George MacLean, is located in the most exceptional setting encompassing a huge area of usable land in the best part of lower Bel Air. The living room flows around a stone fireplace & highlights walls of windows opening to the grassy yard. The den & wet bar create the perfect space for entertaining & flow to the formal dining area & spacious kitchen. Spacious master suite w/fireplace, enormous dual baths, & dual walk-in closets! 2 add. ensuite bedrooms, 2 staff rooms, + detached 1+1 guest house. Private grassy yard, complete w/pool & patio areas. 4-car garage & motor court.
 
1323 Moraga Drive, Bel Air 
 $7,995,000

 
Magnificent 6BD + 5.5BA estate in prestigious Moraga Estates set on over 9 acres with expansive flat grassy yard and lighted tennis court. Large windows flood interior spaces with light and look out to the lovely grassy yard. There are 6 spacious bedrooms including a maid's & 5 bedrooms upstairs. The voluminous master features huge dual walk-in closets, sumptuous bath and separate office/sitting area with large patio and beautiful views.The media/game rm boasts skylights, built-ins and lovely wood detailing. Enjoy privacy  and exceptional lifestyle in a 24 hour guard gated community.
 

10209 Century Woods Drive, Century City   
 $6,895,000 

 
Premiering the first of an extraordinary collection of 10 private addresses is located within Century Woods, in the heart of Century City. Hardwood flooring, natural stone, wrought iron touches, terraces, & authentic pavers add custom touches. The beautifully appointed central courtyard features outdoor dining & entertainment areas and makes way for the open floor plan and expansive living areas. Floor plans range from 5,700-6,500+ sqft with 3-5 bdrms w/ secluded maid's quarters, private elevator, 3-car garage with direct entry, & covered rooftop terrace. Century Woods' amenities & 24hr guard gated entry through a newly configured entrance. Available to purchase now.
 
4630 Encino Avenue, Encino     
 $5,895,000 

 
The ultimate in privacy and views! Up a long private drive lies this magnificent architectural gem on nearly 2 acres. This stunning 10,000+ square foot home offers panoramic views and all of the amenities one could dream of. Magnificent great room, gourmet eat-in kitchen, elegant formal dining room, 2 stately offices, state-of-the-art movie theater, and so much more. There are 6 well planned bedrooms including the spectacular master suite. Expansive patio, covered dining pavilion, infinity pool and spa and enormous grassy yard with play area. Ample parking and spacious motor court.
 
1044 Manning Avenue, Little Holmby
$2,999,999

 
In desirable Westwood/ Little Holmby this contemporary home is turnkey with no detail spared! Airy, bright, and filled with numerous skylights, this 4BD + 3.5BA home has an open and inviting floor plan; spacious living room, step down family room/den, updated chef's kitchen with over sized kitchen island, & the open dining area with a wall of doors that fully open to incorporate an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. A generous master suite plus three additional bedrooms upstairs. Private backyard with sparkling pool/ spa, grassy yard, BBQ station, small sports court, exquisite landscaping, and more. Spacious laundry and craft room, security system and 2-car garage. Prime location - in Warner Ave. Elem. School District! 
 
 
10580 Wilshire Blvd #19NW, Westwood
 $2,995,000 


Exquisitely refinished Paris inspired pied-a-Terre. Elevator opens to this 19th floor foyer where you are greeted with unobstructed panoramas to the ocean and Catalina. Rich wood floors reclaimed from a Vermont Barn, crown moldings, and superior Grace & Scalamandre wall coverings are just a few of the designer touches throughout. 3BD+2.5BA including sumptuous master suite with dual walk-in closets, bath with hand-laid mosaic tile, shower and Jacuzzi. Newly renovated building affords luxurious amenities; hi-tech gym, outdoor pool, banquet room with catering kitchen, board meeting room, wine cellar with private storage, 24/7 concierge/valet and more!


2633 La Cuesta Drive, Hollywood Hills
$2,499,000


The ultimate in privacy and California living at its best! A discreet gate leads you down a long drive to this fantastic warm, contemporary oasis on over half an acre.Chef's kitchen featuring professional appliances, 2 farmhouse sinks, and counter space galore is flooded with light. The open and flowing floor plan with soaring, character rich, beamed ceilings as well as dark, rich hardwood floors connects dining and living areas. Three bedrooms plus 2.5 baths including the upstairs master retreat. French doors leading to multiple outdoor destinations including a lap pool with incredible light and canyon views. 
 

239 N. Kenter Drive, Hollywood Hills 
 $2,395,000

 

Fantastic Brentwood location! Lovely gated 3 bedroom plus office (potential 4th bedroom) & 3.5 bath home is situated on a large lot in a wonderful neighborhood just North of Sunset Blvd. This home is just waiting for you to make it your own! The living & dining area has a wonderful open floor plan lined with doors and windows opening to the grassy backyard, patios, and sparkling pool. There are 3 bedrooms plus office/den/ or potential 4th bedroom. This home also boasts extra features including a step down bonus room, a spacious office/den, detached studio, four car garage, and motor court.

 


2857 Motor Avenue, Cheviot Hills 
 $1,799,000

 

In the lovely sought after community of Cheviot Hills; this spacious home has beautiful curb appeal. An extraordinary opportunity to create your dream home! The traditional floor plan includes bright public rooms, den/family room and large living room with wood floors, formal dining room with large windows, and kitchen that opens to the entertainer's rear deck. There are 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms plus a bonus room with private entrance that could be an additional bedroom, media room, game room, etc. The private yard boasts a spacious rear deck, a pool, and beautiful views of greenery and the tree-tops. There are so many possibilities!

 


1430 Miller Drive, Hollywood Hills 
 $1,695,000

 

Super cool and hip Hollywood view home. This stunning property feels like a fabulous loft with views from the upper and lower decks to the city. The open plan living room to kitchen makes it perfect for entertaining. Features two spacious bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, screening room/gym, and decks with views of the city. Terraced gardens down and private pedestrian gated entry up. Superb location. Perfect home for the most stylish buyer.

 

850 N. Hudson Avenue, Hollywood  
 $574,999 


Boutique Tuscan-style newer construction building. Open, airy and bright unit with 2 bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms and almost 1,500 sf of living space. Cook's kitchen with maple cabinets, granite counters and stainless appliances. Hardwood floors, recessed lighting and sumptuous moldings in living areas plus custom silk screened Hunter Douglas blinds throughout. The building has a recently built state of the art gym and 2 subterranean parking spots. The Hancock Park adjacent location can't be beat! 
 
530 S. Barrington Drive #206, Brentwood   
 $569,000 


Extra large and beautifully redone 1 bedroom, 1.75 bath condo + large den in a fantastic Brentwood location. Newly done kitchen with quartz counters and stainless steel appliances. Updated baths, quality materials, and lots of closet space. New flooring throughout. Quiet unit does not face Barrington. Enjoy greenery/treetop views from the private balcony. Secure building with assigned garage parking and pool. An excellent location close to restaurants, shops, parks and Barrington Recreation Center.
 
1693 Marmont Avenue, Sunset Strip
 $50,000/month


INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY FOR A SHORT TERM SUMMER LEASE PERCHED ABOVE THE SUNSET STRIP! At the top of a celebrity lined street sits the ultimate in privacy and elegance, only half a mile from Sunset Blvd. and the famed Chateau Marmont. Behind gates you will find this luxury custom built Italian Villa. Spacious floor plan for entertaining features floor to ceiling windows to enjoy the jetliner, city and canyon vistas. Expansive balcony wraps around entire second floor. Huge flat yard with pool, spa, sauna and guest house. Old world detail and quality with all of the modern day conveniences. A truly special home for the most discerning who demand nothing but the finest quality.


10580 Wilshire Blvd #19NW, Westwood
 $14,950/month


Exquisitely refinished Paris inspired pied-a-Terre. Elevator opens to this 19th floor foyer where you are greeted with unobstructed panoramas to the ocean and Catalina. Rich wood floors reclaimed from a Vermont Barn, crown moldings, and superior Grace & Scalamandre wall coverings are just a few of the designer touches throughout. 3BD+2.5BA including sumptuous master suite with dual walk-in closets, bath with hand-laid mosaic tile, shower and Jacuzzi. Newly renovated building affords luxurious amenities; hi-tech gym, outdoor pool, banquet room with catering kitchen, board meeting room, wine cellar with private storage, 24/7 concierge/valet and more! 


200 S. McCarty Drive, Beverly Hills
 $9,900/month


Authentic Spanish charmer with modern updates and an amazing location on the best street South of Wilshire. A romantic and completely private courtyard leads to a step-down living room with original high beamed ceiling, fireplace and hardwood floors. Remodeled cooks' kitchen boasts beautiful cabinets, white marble counter-tops, and high-end appliances. The living room and dining room both open to a beautiful brick courtyard with built-in barbecue and black bottom spa. Three bedrooms and 2 baths up including lovely master and master bath with a 4th bedroom down. Close to all: shops, restaurants and schools.






John Aaroe Group does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources. The buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of the information. Listing broker Sally Forster Jones CalBRE# 00558939