Alamitos Heights – Page 3 – Alamitos Heights Long Beach

Simms Pond

November 13, 2014

News

If you are like me, you have driven by Simms Pond on the corner of Loynes and PCH for years, and have only seen it through the fence.

Well, thanks to readers of this blog that asked if I knew anything about it, I called the man who does, Lenny Arkinstall of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards to arrange a visit.

A very brief History:

Back in the 1950’s and 1960’s there was a Bait Shop at the corner of Loynes and PCH called Simms Bait and Tackle. hence the name Simms Pond. Then in 1977/78, developers wanted to build homes in what is now Del Lago and BayHarbour. As a condition for these developments, the California Coastal Commission required that Simms Pond be set aside for a Biological Reserve. In 2003 the Del Lago Community Association and the Bay Harbour HOA deeded the land to the city.

The pond is what they call a seasonal “vernal pool”, meaning it will be dry at sometime during the year. Lenny informed me that the pond is the healthiest it has ever been and that the drying of the pond by the drought this year has actually helped to air out and repair the soil.

The pond is home to many species of birds and wildlife. (Click here simsbirds 2013 – Final v 1 1 (2) )

After 25 years of driving past the pond, it was a treat to be able to see it up close. This really is a hidden gem in the city of Long Beach.

If there is enough interest, we can arrange a group tour. But for now, enjoy the pictures

RALPHS Grocery Store near Alamitos Heights Closing!!!

Craig Wallace

October 13, 2014

News

Comments

Yes, the Ralphs located at the intersection of PCH, Bellflower Blvd and 7^th Street at the Bixby Village Center will be closing.

I spoke with people at the store, and was informed they will be closing in 3-4 weeks. Supposedly, the owner of the center, Westar Associates raised the rent, Ralphs said no, and Westar gave them a 30 day notice.

What could replace Ralphs as an anchor in the center and occupy 33,382 SF? I would like to think another Grocery store, but with a new Gelsons, Whole Food’s, Trader Joes and a larger Ralphs down the road. Anyone’s guess could be good. However, on Westars Associates website, there are links to stories about Smart & Final Extra?

I think losing this Ralphs is a blow to the surrounding neighborhoods. It was much easier to go to this location then the one down PCH.

What do you think? Send me an email.

Alamitos Heights Long Beach

3rd Quarter Market Update.

Craig Wallace

September 9, 2014

Uncategorized, Values

Comments

So what has been happening in Alamitos Heights?

I tried a new service from Fiverr.com to make this great little video below. I did not want to use my voice for the voice over, but next time I will. After a few rounds of revisions, the voice over guy just could not get the correct pronunciation of “Alamitos”. I guess when you grow up in Southern California, you are used to the latin pronunciation of words and you don’t have to think about them.

Now for the update.

We seem to be in a state of transition, we are not seeing the rapid price appreciation of years past. We hare heading to a more normal market. Values seem to be hitting a plateau.

( click on picture for larger image)

If we look at the List price versus Sold price graph below, we can see that the majority of homes are selling below list price, with a few exceptions. One being 528 Havana Avenue, this solf for $200,000 over asking price! I think it had to do with the fact that this home sits on large lot. The other large lot sale was 680 Havana Avenue. This home could have sold for more, but it is located one house south of 7^th Street.

( click on picture for larger image)

This next chart shows us Sales by month, but what we really like to see is the number of sales per year. This year we have 15 closed sales. With the 3 pending and 3 active listings, we could be on track to end the year with 21 sales. This would put us close to sales of the past 3 years.

( click on picture for larger image)

What does all this mean to you? Simple, SELL! If you are thinking about selling, now is the time. If you are thinking about buying, now is the time. Mortgage rates are predicted to move up, and when they do, your purchasing power moves down.

What Makes Alamitos Height a great place to live?

Craig Wallace

September 9, 2014

Dogs Of Alamitos Heights

Comments

What makes Alamitos Heights a great place to live? The neighbors.

The 400-500 block of Los Altos recently had a Pink Flamingo Party. Basically, if a placstic Pink Flamingo shows up on your yard, you have to host a “Bring Your Own ( beer, food, soda) party in your front yard or driveway.

Along this same line, the 300 Block of Los Altos had a Street Drive way party over Labor Day Weekend. This usually starts around 6 and goes to about 10pm. These little gatherings are a great way to meet your neighbors. So get out there and have a Party, but be sure to invite me!

Alamitos heights long beach, real estate agent in long beach, homes for sale in long beach

Hot Real Estate Market, 4th of July Block Party, Santiago Ave Water Line Repair? Sharks in Colorado Lagoon!

Craig Wallace

July 7, 2014

Activities, Uncategorized

Comments

Alamitos Heights is in high demand. There are more buyers then sellers. Good properties are selling within 2 weeks, some faster. I have been holding open houses on a Listing( not mine) on Los Altos Avenue. I am speaking with people that have a strong desire to move into out neighborhood. Some are first time buyers, some coming from Belmont Heights and Belmont Shore. They are drawn here for the schools, the larger lots, the neighborly feel. (nothing new to those of us that live here). What does this mean to you? Values are still moving up.

If you know of anyone, who is slightly thinking about selling, now is the time!

I will be doing a more detailed post of the market in the next few weeks, so stay tuned.

Once again it was time for the Annual 4^th of July Block party on Los Altos Avenue. The fun started at 2pm and went well into the night with a movie screening. Fire Station 14 came by to cool things down. The kids really loved this.

What is up with Santiago Avenue?

Things seem to be moving slowly for the valve replacement at the intersection of 4^th Street and Santiago Avenue. I spoke with Louanne Bean, the information contact for the project. Ms. Bean stated things should be complete in another 3 weeks. Santiago avenue will be open at the end of each workday. If you have any question, call her at 949-293-6193

The Colorado Lagoon is now cleaner then it has been in years. My son and I went fishing on Sunday afternoon and had a great time. We are strictly catch and release. Did you know there are Sharks in the Lagoon? We caught 2, this was a surprise, but nice to see.

If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138

Picnic, Yard Sales, Community Service and Contest Winner

Craig Wallace

June 15, 2014

Activities, News

Comments

We have had a good Kick off to summer here in Alamitos Heights. The AHIA ( Alamitos Heights Improvement Association, say that three times fast) hosted the Annual Picnic/BBQ. This was a good time to meet neighbors from other streets, play games with the kids and volunteer for a committee on the AHIA board.

This is also when the AHIA recognizes a resident for outstanding work in the community. This year we had two, Karen Taylor and Holland Brown. These two ladies created the Award winning “Learning Garden” at Lowell Elementary School. Karen and Holland Volunteer countless hours to help teach the kids at Lowell. Many lessons coincide with what the kids are leaning in class; History, Science, Etc. Having helped in the Learning Garden, I can say personally, that the enthusiasm and dedication these ladies bring is amazing. They have won many awards for Lowell. People like these are what make Alamitos Heights a great community, and what make our local schools the Best.

Last, we just had our first Community Yard Sale. Over 15 homes participated. I can say, that on our block, it was more of a party and social event, then a sale.

The winner to last months sweepstakes ( 2 Free Dinners to Ma n’ Pa Grocery)

Was, Angie Canchola of Ultimo Ave.

Our new sweepstakes will Start Soon, Look for the Flyer on your door!

If you have any old photos, or if you know some neighbors that have some, please have them contact me.

If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138

Unofficial Start to Summer, Neighborhood Yard Sale and Local Wildlife

Craig Wallace

May 26, 2014

Activities, News

Comments

The unofficial start of summer happened this past Friday in Alamitos Heights. The 80’s and 90’s cover band KNYGHT RYDER played at Marina Vista Park for the kickoff to the City of Long Beaches 100 Days of Summer ( www.100daysofsummer.org ) A good time was had by all.

Some upcoming events worth seeing are:

Free Movie Screening of “42” the Jackie Robinson Story at Blair Field on July 19.
Dragon Boat Festival at Marine Stadium, July 26-27 (www.lbdragonboat.com )
Sprint Nationals speed Boat Races in Marine Stadium August 2-3 (www.scscracing.com )

Time to clean out the Garage and closets and make some money!

The Alamitos Heights Improvement Association is hosting a Community Yard Sale on Saturday June 19 from 7am to 12 noon. For more information contact president@ahia.info

Last is Wildlife. We live in an urban setting, we have our share of opossums, Raccoons and Coyotes that visit our neighborhood. The other morning I was driving north on Santiago and noticed this Coopers Hawk taking a morning bath in the street. Here are some facts about Coopers Hawks. ( All about Birds )

If you are thinking about sellingwant to know the current value of your home please send me an email or call. If you know of someone looking for a 5 Bedroom Home, let me know.

Remember, I am a Realtor and Certified Appraiser, and have been a resident of Alamitos Heights for 18 Years.

What is up with the New Coffee House on Nieto?

Craig Wallace

March 31, 2014

News

Comments

Driving from Alamitos Heights towards Lowell Elementary and Rogers Middle School on a daily basis, I have noticed the project on Nieto has been stalled for some time. So I stopped by to take a look. See the concept here, click on this link http://www.ultra-unit.com/Greenbelt_Coffee.html

I called the Architect ( Ultra-Unit) that is listed on the project sign to ask him a few questions. Cameron said that work will resume in the next few weeks. I asked him about the concept. From what he knows about the project, the owners plan to focus on breakfast and lunch, as far what the menu might look like, he does not know. As soon as I find out more information, I will post it here.

Projects like this are what make living in Alamitos Heights so great, an new local spot for neighbors to meet.

If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138

What change is coming to 7th street?

Craig Wallace

January 28, 2014

News

Comments

The Alamitos Heights Improvement Association sent out a notice yesterday regarding the property on 7th Street. The property is home to the Original Grind and, the old Liquor store.

Supposedly, Newport Beach Developer, Frontier Real Estate Investments out of Newport Beach is planning to develop the property. Per the Public Hearing notice (2014 Jan city notice of 7th Flint renovate permit process-3 (3)), they plan to construct a single story, 1,889 sf fast food restaurant.

Rumor has it, that it could be a Dunkin Donuts (NASDAQ: DNKN). Dunkin is planning a major push into the California Market. See the Press release from Dunkin Donuts (click on the picture for the link.)

While I was taking the picture above, I ran into Jeff Gritchen, Chief Photographer for The Long Beach Register . They will be running a full story on Dunkin Donuts tomorrow, be sure to check it out.

Jeff also has a great blog called Long Beach Seen with almost daily photos from around Long Beach.

If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value, call or email me. If you know someone who wants to move to our wonderful neighborhood, call me, I would be happy to help find them a home. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values. Call me for all your Real Estate needs 562-673-1138

Dogs of Alamitos Heights – McJagger

Craig Wallace

October 16, 2013

Dogs Of Alamitos Heights

Comments

McJagger wanted to do all the talking in this post. He can type real well.

Hi, my name is McJagger and I’m a 2 1/2 year old tall, lanky Great Dane Labrador mix. Two years ago I escaped death, and was rescued from a high-kill shelter in Los Angeles by Indi Lab rescue. I was cut up, starving and had been living on the streets for a long time. They fed me, took me to the vet and got me all cleaned up for adoption. Soon after, I was adopted by the Echlin Family and boy was I lucky!!

They feed me well, run me and give me lots of love! I’m a great guard dog and am very protective, but also love to crawl into everyone’s lap, bed or couch. Yes, I am one big lap dog! My mom, Kingsley calls me her little chihuahua for this very reason. My favorite morning routine is for my dad, Ray to take me racing around on his bike-I can run really really fast! I also love being walked by my sisters Quinn and Charlotte and am so gentle with them on leash. Nothing is out of reach on the counters, I’m known to eat sticks of butter, fish food, bread…luckily I’m lean so I can afford it!

So, I’m not perfect, but I think I’m a pretty great dog, and love living in Alamitos Heights!

-McJagger

Thank you McJagger.

If you happen to see him out and about with his human, stop and say “Hi”

If you are thinking about selling your house, and would like to know the current market value or discuss a sales plan, call or email me. Remember, I am a Long Beach Real Estate Agent, Certified Appraiser, and a resident of Alamitos Heights, Long Beach. I know values.

Tag: Alamitos Heights