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Modern Stylish Sunset Strip Pool Home

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Unique, gated, pool home above the world famous Sunset Strip. Very interesting A frame style architecture mixed with modern finishes and soaring ceilings all leading out to stunning views of the city below. The home has an open and flexible floor plan allowing the owner to shape it's layout to fit their specific needs. Large redone pool looks like lounging at a boutique hotel.

1425 Kings Rd, Hollywood Hills

$1,995,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,351 Sq. Ft 4,850 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing and Photos Courtesy of Jonah Wilson - Sotheby's Int'l Rlty-Sunset

This is an interesting property that looks like it has been nicely updated. If you are looking for a modern and unique property above the Sunset Strip with views, this may be it. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Lorcan O'Herlihy Designed Architectural Condo

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Lying next to the renowned Schindler House next door, this building by Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects received the 2008 AIA National Housing Award. It is a stunning example of modern architecture, sleek finishes, and in a fantastic West Hollywood location. The condo has dark rich hardwood flooring throughout, spa like bathrooms, and a Boffi kitchen with Miele & Viking appliances. Walking distance to some of the most desired shopping and restaurants in Los Angeles.

825 Kings, West Hollywood

$849,000 2 Bed 2 Bath 1,220Sq. Ft

Listing and Photos Courtesy of John Galich - Rodeo Realty Inc.

A great high end condo in a highly desirable location. If you've been searching for a single level designer condo, this may be the one. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

John Mayer Sells His Funky Pacific Palisades Pad

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Grammy winner and multi-platinum recording artist John Mayer has closed escrow this week on his home in the Pacific Palisades. While it went into contract in just thirteen days at very close to asking price, it looks as if Mr. Mayer took a sizable loss on this one. Per MLS records, he purchased the property in June 2006 for $1,750,000 and just sold it for $1,291,875 (interesting price right?). Celebrities are susceptible to the ebbs and flows of the real estate market just like the rest of us, although I am sure he can afford to take the hit more then your "average Joe" could. Although I think the front is kinda hideous, I do like the interior floor plan with it's soaring ceilings and open floor plan. I also like the furnishings and design accents John added. The property is on a large lot with lush green surroundings, and in very desirable Pacific Palisades. Do you think the Piano pictured is where he wrote some of his many hits?

1274 Calle De Sevilla, Pacific Palisades

Sold for $1,291,875 (Asking $1,325,000) 4 Bed 2.75 Bath 3,648 Sq. Ft 11,852 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing and Photos Courtesy of Christopher Cain & Wayne Saks - Coldwell Banker-Beverly Hills East

Stunning Spanish Property Under the Hollywood Sign

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Restored and updated 1926 Spanish property lying high up in the Beachwood Canyon area just below the Hollywood Sign. The indoors was very nicely done with gourmet chef's kitchen with modern appliances, original stenciled beamed ceilings in the large living room with vaulted ceilings, updated baths, and new systems throughout. But what really impressed me about the property was the outdoor space. It is all surrounded by large hedges, so is very private, and also has several meandering pathways leading to flat grassy areas, quiet sitting places for relaxation, and of course a stunning pool and spa. This is a great home for both family living, as well as for entertaining with it's multiple unique outdoor spaces.

3267 Ledgewood Dr, Hollywood Hills

$1,999,999 4 Bed 3.5 Bath 3,083/ow Sq. Ft 9,670 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing Courtesy of Joe Reichling & Boni Bryant - Sotheby's Int'l Realty

Photos by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

This is a very well done property on a great private lot. If you are a fan of Spanish architecture, want a pool and a yard in the Hollywood Hills, this one may be perfect. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Ivanka Trump & Her Husband List Greenwich Loft

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With the big news this week circulating in the media that the recently married couple of Ivanka Trump, yes that Trump, and her Husband Jared Kushner (owner of the New York Observer and son of New Jersey real estate mogul Charles Kushner) are expecting their first child, I guess they decided they will need more space and recently listed Mr. Kushner's former bachelor pad for sale. Lying in Greenwich Village in the NYC, this 2,042 sq. ft loft in Astor Place is "one of the most sought after converted pre-war boutique loft building downtown Manhattan," according to Street Easy . With two bedrooms, two and a half baths, soaring ceilings, modern finishes, walls of glass and a ton of natural light in a boutique building, what is not to love? According to Curbed NY, Mr. Kushner purchased the property in the Spring of 2009 for $3,225,000. After doing some renovations, the property is now listed for $4,100,000. It will be interesting to see the type of space they land in next. I hear Trump Tower is nice.

I have said it before and will say it again, although there are more popping up, I sure wish there were more character loft buildings like this in prime locations in Los Angeles. That said, I guess we have houses with grassy yards, pools, and stunning views for this kind of money right.

Listing and Photos Courtesy of Torsten Krines - Sotheby's Int'l Realty, and Curbed NY

Hip Architectural in the Oaks Price Reduced - Los Feliz

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I first came upon this house when I showed it for lease in 2008 at $20,000/mo to a client of mine, and I immediately loved it. The property was purchased by the current owner for $2,150,000 in 2006 and underwent a complete remodel. At one point in 2008 it was listed for sale as high as $4,895,000. Now, Lying at the top of the exclusive “Oaks” in desirable Los Feliz, this designer architectural home with explosive views has been reduced $500,000 and is under $3,000,000. An exquisite home with designer high end finishes, sleek details, walls of glass, and amazing views from top to bottom. The sparkling pool with a nice flat grassy area surrounding it is an oasis. High above the city, but only minutes to all the action and attractions of both Los Feliz and new Hollywood. It is starting to become a great opportunity for a sophisticated buyer who appreciates style to take advantage and enjoy this great house.

2532 Wild Oak, Los Feliz

$2,995,000 (Reduced $500,000 from $3,495,000) 4 Bed 6 Bath 4,500 Sq. Ft 14,070 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing and Photos courtesy of H. Blair Chang - Prudential Realty

An absolutely stunning home in a great location with too many features to list. Now that the price has come down to this point, the property is only that much nicer for less money. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

A Stylish Prospect - Los Feliz

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Lying in the Franklin Hills area of Los Feliz, is this stylishly remodeled property, yet it's character remains intact. An open floor plan with walls of glass, nice wood flooring, and updated chef's kitchen highlight the interior. In addition, some nice tile details in the bathrooms. The indoor outdoor flow and true California living is highlighted in this property with it's multiple patios and outdoor gardens all seemingly connected to the interior.

3909 Prospect Ave, Los Feliz

$749,000 2 Bed 1.5 Bath 1,258 Sq. Ft

Listing and Photos courtesy of Konstantine Valissarakos - Sotheby's Int'l Realty - Los Feliz

Although smaller, this is a great opportunity to live in a very cool area in a house with a good size lot, at a reasonable price. The stylish updates make it that much more appealing. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Pharell's Miami Beach Pad

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These pictures came out at the end of last year from The Selby, who has some amazing pictures of the interiors of some very cool properties by the way, but I just felt like reposting since I like the property and am a Pharell fan. I like his music, clothing line, and all around cool vibe; but, I also like his taste in modern pop art and architecture. Look at the details in this Miami property, from the staircase to the ceiling touches, to the walls of glass framing the ocean view. The colorful art sets it off though, with rare pieces from such notable names as KAWS and Takashi Murakami. Not a bad place to relax and hang out for awhile right.

All pictures courtesy of The Selby

Interior Shots & Video of Broadway Loft Lease Listing

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Premiere loft building at one of the most famous intersections in the world, Hollywood & Vine. Loft living at it's finest in this full service celebrity building in prime Hollywood. This designer fully furnished loft by noteworthy interior designer has soaring 12' ceilings, rich dark hardwood flooring, exposed ducting, and a designer bathroom. Gallery kitchen with modern appliances and Caesar stone counters. One of only a few units in the building that have fire escape "balcony" off of loft as well. Building amenities include: sublime rooftop pool with 360 degree views, spa, gym, valet parking and 24-hour concierge service. Lobby & rooftop designed by famed Kelly Wearstler. Walk to the W, Katsuya is downstairs, and all that new Hollywood has to offer. Available Feb. 15th.

1645 Vine St #605, Hollywood

$3,850/mo Fully Furnished 0 Bed 1 Bath 1,000 Sq. Ft

Listing & Pictures by Eric Smilay - Smilay Properties

The property comes fully furnished with high end furnishings, and is stunning. It is a wide open "L" shaped real loft with no separation in bed area. Great character from old windows, but finished with modern upgrades top to bottom. In THE building. If you wish to see this designer loft, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Super Chic Architectural Home on Venice Canals

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Lying on the coveted Venice Canals, is this stunning architectural home. The property was built in 1988, but recently renovated by David Hertz with the finest materials. Great use of two story living room and walls of glass for natural light combined with clean white walls for hanging artwork. The open floor plan is ideal with the chef's kitchen opening up to the living room and dining area. With hip concrete flooring throughout, designer baths for each room, and a serene master suite, this is modern architecture at it's finest.

2335 Eastern Canal, Venice

$2,895,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 3,296 Sq. Ft 2,696 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos Courtesy of Tamra (Tami) Pardee - Pardee Properties, Inc.

This is simply an exquisitely executed architectural home in a prime Venice Canal location. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Downtown Los Angeles

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I recently visited a friend, who was staying in a loft downtown, and took some pictures to show both the downtown skyline, as well as the character and details that was put into the older buildings. They sure don't make them like they used to right? It is great to see a new area of Los Angeles developing with new residential, retail, and goods & service. It's been discussed for so long, that it is nice to finally see the vision coming to fruition.

Pictures by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

Facebook's Multi-Billionaire Founder's New House

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Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, worth an estimated $7Billion plus, recently moved into this rental home in Palo Alto. The home is 3,800 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. Seems like a nice home, but not one you would expect a 26 year old Billionaire to have perhaps. Zuckerberg, who has been described as one of the "cheapest Billionaire's," is living modestly and there is nothing wrong with that.

Pictures Courtesy of TMZ

New Broadway Lofts Lease Listing

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Premiere loft building at one of the most famous intersections in the world, Hollywood & Vine. Loft living at it's finest in this full service celebrity building in prime Hollywood. This designer fully furnished loft by noteworthy interior designer has soaring 12' ceilings, rich dark hardwood flooring, exposed ducting, and a designer bathroom. Gallery kitchen with modern appliances and Caesar stone counters. One of only a few units in the building that have fire escape "balcony" off of loft as well. Building amenities include: sublime rooftop pool with 360 degree views, spa, gym, valet parking and 24-hour concierge service. Lobby & rooftop designed by famed Kelly Wearstler. Walk to the W, Katsuya is downstairs, and all that new Hollywood has to offer. Available Feb. 15th.

1645 Vine St #605, Hollywood

$3,850/mo Fully Furnished 0 Bed 1 Bath 1,000 Sq. Ft

Listing & Pictures by Eric Smilay - Smilay Properties

The property comes fully furnished with high end furnishings, and is stunning. The owner is approving the pictures, as well as adding some pieces to finish off the design, so will have interior shots shortly. It is a wide open "L" shaped real loft with no separation in bed area. Great character from old windows, but finished with modern upgrades top to bottom. In THE building. If you wish to see this designer loft, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Sleek Mid-Century Modern - Hollywood Hills

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Lying in the Outpost area of the Hollywood Hills, this sleek mid-century modern architectural home has just hit the market. According to the listing, the "Home has been featured in Sunset Magazine." The property has been remodeled with sophisticated style and designer touches throughout. Although a smaller home, with the disappearing walls of glass leading out to the huge outdoor deck with stunning views of both the downtown skyline and the Griffith Park Observatory, allowing the outdoors in; thus, making it feel more spacious than the square footage suggests. This one looks a like it could be special.

2408 Carman Crest Dr, Hollywood Hills

$1,399,000 2 Bed 2 Bath 1,600 Sq. Ft 24,620 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos Courtesy of Denny Kagasoff - Prudential California - Beverly Hills

Updated everything with stunning views in a coveted location; what else could one want? If you like this style of architecture and modern finishes in both the kitchens and baths, this may be the one you have been waiting for. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Updated Pricing & Info of My Current Listings

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1928 Spanish character home on a prime street, just minutes to either Hollywood or Studio City. Could use some updating, but with great bones, and a good size for the price in this Hollywood Hills location. Just reduced, and ready for a buyer to take advantage. The "extras" on this house make the potential unlimited; those include: one bedroom guest apartment, canyon views, and two garages with parking for six plus cars.

3249 Bennett Dr., Hollywood Hills

$845,000 (Reduced $54,000 from $899,000) 3 Bed 3 Bath + Additional 1 bed Apt w/ Kitchenette 2,458 Sq. Ft 4,930 Lot Sq. Ft

See a detailed tour of this property here

Meticulously cared for family home with six good size bedrooms, an entertainer's backyard with pool, spa & bbq, and lying in a superb school district. Same owner's for the past twenty five years looking to downsize, and are ready for an offer. Nice open floor plan, newer carpet, and great energy saving upgrades on this fine property.

23515 Candlewood Way, West Hills

$645,000 (Reduced $80,000 from $725,000) 6 Bed 3 Bath 2,472 Sq. Ft 11,160 Lot Sq. Ft

See a detailed tour of this property here

Lying in prime N of San Vicente location in highly desirable Brentwood. This Penthouse condo is the largest unit in well run Le Provencal building. Unit needs updating in the kitchens and baths, but the 18' soaring ceilings in the living and dining rooms create the backdrop for what could be a truly special unit. This short sale has been approved, but buyer's cancelled escrow five days before closing. Their loss is your gain. Any negatives on the unit is why we are talking about $600K rather then $800K, and represents a deal that all buyer's are looking for.

621 Barrington #302, Brentwood

$600,000 (Approved Short Sale) 2 Bed 2 Bath + Loft 1,920 Sq. Ft

See a detailed tour of the property here

Great lease opportunity in highly desirable Rondell community in Agoura Hills. Backing up to lush foliage, this private end unit, has been well upgraded and is stunning. The light bamboo wood flooring throughout the property is really lovely. Other upgraded flooring includes travertine tile in both the kitchen and the bathroom. A very open floor plan surrounded in plantation shutters allows a ton of natural light to flood the property. Large outdoor private patio is great for entertaining and relaxing. Great community with pool, tennis courts, spa, and lush rolling hills.

27556 Rondell St, Agoura Hills

$1,950/mo Lease 2 Bed 2 Bath 869 Sq. Ft

If you wish to see any of these fine properties, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Studio City Mediterranean Foreclosure Opportunity

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This property, judging from the pictures, does not look like the standard run down state that most foreclosure properties are in. This one looks well upgraded, including a total Viking kitchen, rich hardwood flooring, and nice upgraded bathrooms. What I really like most though, besides the price which is great, is that "king of the hill" look that the property gives off from the front. Very Scarface-esque.

3801 Sunshine Ct, Studio City

$749,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 1,802 Sq. Ft 13,440 Lot Sq. Ft

This is a top of the line chef's kitchen with all Viking appliances.

The property has an in ground spa in the backyard, which is very private.

Listing and Photos Courtesy of Joseph Breckner - Coldwell Banker

The last sale of this home was in 2006 for $1,160,000. This current offering represents a tremendous value on top of being a great place to call home. The property is gated, at the end of a cul-de-sac, and in a desirable South of Ventura Blvd location in prime Studio City. If looking for a property in this area, and like Mediterranean style architecture, this is a great opportunity. Timing is everything, and I don't expect this to be available for very long. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Quick Synopsis of Current Real Estate Market

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There is a ton of information available currently in the media on the current Real Estate market. The bottom line is that this listing I have highlights the market, at least in Los Angeles, pretty clearly. There are buyer's out there looking to buy, as well as investors looking, but they want a DEAL.

I have a short sale in a great area in Brentwood, that because the buyer's cancelled five days before the closing, I just re-listed as "active" on the MLS late Friday afternoon. It is now Monday morning, and my phone has been ringing constantly with agent's clamoring for this condo. I have a list of 12 agents that have called, some talking about sending over all cash offers without even seeing the property. They, and their buyers, recognize that this is a deal. In this, or any market, there is money to be made. There are buyer's out there that do want to buy, but just feel like they can negotiate or wait for an unbelievable deal. In many instances they may be right. This is the reason that properties priced at market value are sometimes difficult to move, and if asking over market value forget it. Price is the number one factor in the market right now, period.

Famous "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" Home For Sale

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You remember this iconic home from the popular movie "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," when Ferris' friend Cameron watches in horror as his father's beloved Ferrari goes crashing through the all glass garage. Well now you can own this Highland Park, Illinois beautiful mid-century home.

Surrounded by lush foliage, the famous home is located at 370 Beech St. With 5,300 square feet of living space, the 4 bedroom, 3 bath home has floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. In total, the home sits on a one acre lot with 43,560 square feet. Built in 1953, this home was designed by architects A. James Speyer and David Haid.

The home is listed for $1,650,000. For more information, see the listing.

Photos courtesy of Sudler Sotheby's Realty and VHT.

Amazing Short Sale Opportunity in Prime Brentwood

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The buyer just walked on this penthouse condo that was set to close this Friday, so is now back available. The unit needs work and updating without question, but that is why we are talking about $600,000 rather then $800,000. There is a tremendous amount of value in this property at this price in this highly desirable location. This is the largest unit in coveted Le Provencal building, which houses a very healthy and well run HOA with a ton of reserves. The short sale has been approved, so now just need another offer at that price and should be able to close relatively quickly. I find that the majority of people struggle to "see" it, as don't have design backgrounds, but for the one who does get it, this is an absolute winner. Take advantage.

621 S Barrington #302, Brentwood

$600,000 (Approved Short Sale at this Price) 2 Bed + Loft 2 Bath 1,920 Sq. Ft

Soaring 18' ceilings in living/dining room provide a ton of volume

Wet bar and gas lit fireplace in the living room

Three balconies in total on the property; largest one shown here

High ceilings in the master bedroom

High ceilings & large walk in closet in guest bedroom

Spacious loft area with direct access to private deck, currently being rented out and used as a bedroom

Large pool & spa provide a peaceful escape in the heart of Brentwood

You can see a detailed tour of the property here

There is both a significant profit lying here if you are an investor, as well as a great place to live if you are a buyer. The unit with a little updating (aesthetics only) could be special because of the location, soaring ceilings and great open floor plan. One buyer's loss is another buyer's gain. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.