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Fall In Love With Your Fall Closet With These Organizing Tips
These tips can make organizing your closet for fall and winter a snap!
Can you believe that the summer’s already come to an end? Our recent heat wave certainly wouldn’t seem to indicate that the seasons are shifting, but the calendar doesn’t lie.
Since you know cooler weather is soon to be heading our way, this is a great time to start thinking about organizing your closet for fall. Here are a few of my favorite tips to help!
- Start Storing: There’s no reason to have your shorts and sandals taking up prominent places in your closet anymore. Store the majority of your summer clothes, keeping a few of your favorite pieces out for vacations and the random hot days we have here in Los Angeles.
- Get Hung Up On Hangers: Switching your closet over to a single hanger style might sound like a lot of work, but trust me, the result is well worth it! Not only will thinner, velvet-covered hangers in a single color give your closet a chic look, they’ll also help your clothes hang better and, believe it or not, create more closet space!
- Engage Your Eyes: You’re much more likely to wear more of your wardrobe if you can actually see it. Move stored summer clothing to the back of your closet, and move everything you want to wear the fall and winter to the front. Organize your closet so everything is as visible as possible. Hang up shirts with graphics, for example, so you won’t lose them with your plain tees.
Organizing your closet can be a nightmare if you don’t have enough closet space. Are you ready to get into the right home, with the right closet? Enjoy the luxury of having a great closet—and a great home!—by contacting me, Betsy Dittman, today. I’m here to be your guide to the local real estate market, guiding you towards the perfect home for all of your wants and needs.
Must-Have Smartphone Apps For Living In Los Angeles
These smartphone apps will make your LA life better and easier.
The smartphone has made so many things simpler, and now it’s adding to your life in Los Angeles, too! I don’t want you to miss out, so don’t wait to download these apps for your iPhone and Android that can help you make the most out of LA with a minimal amount of hassle.
- Luxe Valet: I know that most people think parking in Los Angeles is a headache, but it doesn’t have to be! With this free app, you get on-demand valet services wherever you all, always for $15 or less. Just tell Luxe where you’re heading, and they’ll pick up your vehicle and park it in one of their lots. When you’re ready to hit the road, let them know and they’ll pull it around for you. For a little extra, they’ll even wash your car and fill your tank!
- Our Malibu Beaches: This app has gotten some press, thanks largely to how its revolutionizing local beach use. What it does is show you beaches that are public in our area. Seems straightforward, until you realize a number of local beaches have hidden entrances, leaving them all but unused. Carve out some sand space with this handy, free app.
- Caviar: Don’t want to go get food, but don’t want to settle for a lackluster delivery dinner? Fear not! Caviar is here to help. Free to download, this app gives you the opportunity to have food delivered to you for a fee from a number of notable LA restaurants. Take it for a spin; the first delivery is free!
While there isn’t an app to help you find your dream piece of real estate in our area, I can make it easy for you! Contact me, Betsy Dittman, to learn how you can get into your perfect home quickly and easily this year.
Could The Market Be Getting Better For Homebuyers?
Some trends point towards a buyer’s market heading our way.
There’s no doubt that we’ve been experiencing a seller’s market. As low mortgage rates and skyrocketing rent costs drive more and more Americans to buy homes even as the national housing inventory has stayed relatively tight, sellers have had the opportunity to sell their homes quickly, and for a notable profit.
The tides could be changing, though. Trulia recently calculated how long it takes for homes to sell and found that 63 percent of homes listed early in the summer were still on the market two months later. This is an increase over the 61 percent last summer posted.
What does this mean? It could hint that the market is slowing down, which would be great news for would-be homeowners who’ve been scrambling to get into homes in the face of competition from other buyers.
Ultimately, the fact that some homes are lingering on the market doesn’t necessarily mean that all buyers will have an easier time, though. Specifically, California buyers can still expect a fast-paced market since the Golden State boasts 5 of the top 10 fastest housing markets. That doesn’t mean that we won’t see a gradual shift towards a buyer’s market, but it does mean it could take a little longer for it to reach our particular portion of the West Coast.
Whether you’re buying or selling in the local market, it’s important that you have an ally on your side to make sure you make the most of your real estate process. For expert insight into local luxury real estate and top-tier service, contact me, Betsy Dittman. I’m dedicated to helping homebuyers and sellers in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles bring their real estate dreams to life in 2015.
The Village At Westfield Topanga Will Open This Month!
Shoppers, diners rejoice: The Village at Westfield Topanga is opening in September!
For months, locals have watched the construction at The Village at Westfield Topanga near completion. As storefronts were finished and a full list of 25 retailers was released in August, it became clear that we were nearing the official opening of this long-anticipated retail and dining location.
More recently, Westfield Corp. released information about the nearly 90 stores and restaurants that will be opening at The Village, including Crate & Barrel, REI, Drybar, Pressed Juicery, Sur La Table, Costco, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Paper Source. Additionally, and perhaps more excitingly, they also announced their official open date, and it’s just around the corner!
On September 18th, The Village opens to the public.
If you’re not too keen on waiting that long, don’t worry! Costco—which serves as the primary anchor for this shopping and dining destination—is opening tomorrow! You can also get in on the action early by participating in Westfield’s VIP preview, which is planned for the 17th.
Prior to the preview, some of the restaurants will be extending invitations to their “soft openings” scheduled for that evening.
Development crews have been working long hours to get the $350 million center ready for the upcoming opening. The Village is situated in the middle of Victory Boulevard, Erwin road, Topanga Canyon Boulevard, and Owensmouth Avenue.
Are you hungry for easier access to dining and shopping destinations like The Village? If so, contact me, Betsy Dittman! With years of experience in the local Los Angeles real estate market, I can help you find the perfect home that will make living your ideal lifestyle fun and easy! To learn more about the great properties available near The Village at Westfield Topanga, call me today!
Take Advantage Of The Summer At These Farmers’ Markets
Find Local Produce At These Markets
With the warming weather comes more opportunities to get out of your standard grocery shopping routine and head to the farmers’ market instead. I love heading the farmers’ market because it gives me the chance to stroll in the summer sunshine and discover some new local favorites to work more flavor and nutrients into my meals. So you can enjoy the season with me, check out these great weekend markets.
- Westlake Village: As a California Certified farmer’s market, it is no surprise that Westlake’s market delivers delicious produce and so much more. It is held each Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 2797 Agoura Road.
- Calabasas: Rain or shine, this great market on Calabasas Road just west of El Canon Avenue offers everything from farmers’ market classics to less traditional wares like wine and flowers. It runs on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Marina del Rey: At Via Marina and Panay Way, this market comes alive on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Park next to Cheesecake Factory for easy access.
- Camarillo: Ventura Boulevard comes alive with live music, fresh produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, artwork, and more. Do not miss this fun event between 8:00 a.m. and noon on Saturdays between Elm and Fir Streets.
- Santa Monica: Since 1981, this market has worked to provide fresh food and promote sustainable agriculture in Southern California. It is held between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on the Santa Monica Promenade.
Are you hoping to move somewhere you can get great local produce to help you on the path to your best, healthiest life? To find a home that complements your life goals, contact Betsy Dittman. Serving Calabasas, Westlake Village and the surrounding area, I am here to help you discover your dream house this year.
The Best Bars To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
Where To Head For The Holiday
St. Patrick’s Day is one of those great holidays that centers on getting family and friends together to eat, drink, and enjoy each other’s company. The biggest problem that arises around the holiday, then, is not knowing where to go to grab your pint of Guinness. To help you, here are a couple of suggestions for the best local restaurant options.
- Tom Bergin’s Tavern: If you want to celebrate a comeback story this St. Patty’s Day, head to this tavern, the longest operating Irish establishment in LA. It closed in 2013 but has had a second chance at making its mark in Los Angeles after being purchased and reopened by a regular customer named Derek Schreck. Once there, you will see why Schreck did not want to let it go: the shamrock theme, wood paneling, famous Irish coffee, and bangers and mash make this a can’t-miss spot on St. Patrick’s Day and throughout the year. 840 S. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles • (323) 936-7151
- O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Restaurant: This Santa Monica staple is decked out so you can perfectly celebrate the holiday. Enjoy their Irish art, spacious patio, and live music while you grab a pint of Irish beer and savor traditional Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, fish ‘n’ chips, and Guinness pie. If you are looking for a sweet treat this holiday, do not miss their Guinness floats. 2941 Main Street, Santa Monica • (310) 396-4725
Are you working with a real estate expert who will ensure you next home is close to the best places to support your lifestyle? For a guide to the most fun areas of Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Conejo Valley, contact Betsy Dittman today. I am here to help you find the best neighborhood to meet your needs.
What’s Your Favorite Brunch Spot?
There are few better ways to spend a Sunday than enjoying a delicious brunch with all of your friends and family. If you are looking for a new favorite brunch spot this weekend, make sure to check out these local brunch spots!
Barbrix in Silverlake not only offers $5 bottomless mimosas, but also has a full menu that appeals to everyone. From blueberry cornmeal pancakes that are topped with a berry compote and served with Vermont maple syrup to blue crab hash, you will surely leave satisfied every Sunday afternoon.
I love the idea of BLD on Beverly Blvd – breakfast, lunch, dinner, get it? With a rotating menu and options for vegetarians, this place is a definite brunch hot spot. Top Chef Masters contestant Chef Neal Fraser runs the show and his exquisite taste puts a spin on every plate, creating a mouthwatering menu for all to enjoy.
The Griddle Café, a classic on Sunset, has been a hot spot for “melt in your mouth” pancakes. Although there are long waits on the weekends, I wouldn’t pass this place up!
MB Post in Manhattan Beach is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with the best sticky buns for miles around. Make sure to make a reservation for your Sunday brunch and try one of their famous bloody Mary’s with their bacon buttermilk biscuits that are served with a side of maple butter. If you are looking for something more savory, you will not want to miss out on the poached egg on polenta with asparagus and ricotta-stuffed French toast.
AOC in Los Angeles offers brunch from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Chef Suzanne Goin showcases market fresh fruits and veggies in all of her dishes, including spring vegetable and soft egg and grilled asparagus with polenta. Make sure to try the signature breakfast sandwich that includes arugula, prosciutto, and a sunny side up egg. There are also specialty cocktails available to complete your brunch experience.
Alcove in Los Angeles is the perfect place to enjoy a Sunday brunch with your pup. Their breakfast sandwiches and benedict options pair perfectly with specialty drinks handcrafted at Big Bar. They also offer a build your own mimosa option.
What is your favorite brunch spot? Contact me, and let me know where I should brunch this Sunday!
What’s Happening in the Conejo Valley?
Have you noticed all the changes in the Conejo Valley? Between the new Shoppes at Westlake Village and the construction at the Westlake Plaza, you have the opportunity to try something new every day.
If you have driven by the Westlake Plaza, you have probably noticed huge “protected” signs hanging around. These protected trees are the ones that cannot be taken down during the construction. Unfortunately, this protection did not extend to all the trees in the area. Over 30 oak trees were removed to make room for all the new shops and restaurants that will be going into the plaza. Luckily, many residents in the area fought hard and won to protect more than 70 trees in the area.
There are many new restaurants popping up in the area to satisfy all of your cravings. Make sure to try these delicious spots on your next night out.
- Cronies Sports Grill has been a staple in the Conejo Valley for more than 23 years, and recently opened up another location in Agoura Hills on Kanan Road. Known for their ice cold 20 oz. beer schooners and delicious menu items, the new location is one of the best new places to watch all the sports games in the area.
- Pieology is opening up their second location in the Conejo Valley on Lindero Canyon Road. The “make your own pizza” idea has rapidly caught on, allowing people to make their own delicious creations. You can choose from a variety of traditional ingredients, such as pepperoni and ham, or take the less traditional route, such as adding artichokes and fresh basil so that your pizza comes out tasting its best.
- If you are looking for a little bit of everything, make sure to check out Jeannine’s Gourmet Food Hall at the Shoppes at Westlake Village. Offering everything from benedicts and egg dishes to salads and burgers, you will surely find something you love at Jeannine’s.
- In-N-Out opened on November 5th at the Shoppes at Westlake village. The design of the store was created to fit in with the rest of the stores in the area, making it one of the most unique In-N-Outs around. Also now open in the Shoppes at Westlake Village, Jeannine’s Gourmet, Hook Burger, Bowl of Heaven, Greens Up, Total Woman, All Tressed Up Blow Dry Bar and of course Target.
- What better way to end any day in the Conjeo Valley than with a delicious bag of popcorn? Popped Fresh Gourmet Popcorn is opening up on Kanan Road in Agoura Hills and will offer over 50 different flavors of popcorn. They will also offer unique gifts and popcorn tins that are coming in just in time for holiday gift season.
- Le Pain Quotidien is also going into the Westlake Plaza. This is a great place for breakfast or lunch. Other great restaurants are opening up in the same plaza, such as Pitfire Artisan Pizza, Mendocino Farms Sandwich Market, and Pressed Juicery .
To learn more about what is happening in the Conejo Valley, contact Betsy Dittman. As a luxury homes real estate expert, I can help with all of your home buying and selling needs in Los Angeles and the Conejo Valley to ensure that you are always closest to the newest stores and restaurants in the area.
