Boutique Meets Corporate in Hotel Partnership

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In an interesting, and probably wise from all angles, partnership the original king of the Boutique Hotel concept Ian Schrager teems up with corporate hospitality giant Marriott. These two will create a new lifestyle hotel brand called Edition. The thinking is that more and more customers want the personalized service and style that Schrager is legendary for (think Mondrian in LA, Delano Hotel in Miami, Hudson Hotel in NYC, Clift Hotel in San Francisco, & Sanderson Hotel in London), as well as the operational expertise that the Marriott company is known for.

The partnership has recently opened the first of many to come in Waikiki.

Rates start at $375. I love the boutique hotel concept and am interested to see how this partnership works. I am sure cost conscious Marriott will have a difference of opinion or two with the legendary hotelier known for having to have the coolest of everything. That said, it makes sense on a lot of levels, and will bring high design and service to more properties throughout the world. Please visit the Edition Hotels website for more information.

Open House This Sunday 1-4 pm @ Hollywood Spanish

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If looking for a well priced home full of value in a prime location, please come by tomorrow from 1-4 pm and see 3249 Bennett Dr. Just listed and priced very well for a lot of house with views.

3249 BENNETT DR, HOLLYWOOD HILLS

Offered @ $899,000 3 Bed 3 Bath + 1 Bed Guest Apartment Space w/ Kitchenette 2,458 Sq. Ft

Lying in a great location in the Hollywood Hills is this beautiful Spanish style home with intricate character details throughout. Up in the hills with peaceful canyon views and on a great street, but just a minute to the heart of either Hollywood or Studio city. Great curb appeal; upon entry one is struck by the multiple large bay windows allowing a ton of natural light to flood the property. The first floor has a nice open floor plan and houses both a formal living room with fireplace & relaxing family room with soaring beamed ceilings. Also on the top floor is a formal dining room, and huge kitchen with top level appliances like a Fisher & Paykel six burner range and industrial refrigerator. The three bedrooms are downstairs. The master contains a large walk in closet and sumptuous master bath with separate frameless glass shower & bath. There is also an addt'l 1 bedroom apartment space with it's own separate entrance. Also a six car parking garage! Simply a great house in a prime location.

Please visit http://gallery.me.com/bartondt#100020 for a detailed tour of the professional pictures taken of this fine property. This is a large home that is priced well in this location. It has exquisite Spanish details, an open floor plan, updated kitchens and baths, and is ready to go. If you can't make it to the open house, but would like to see this home, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Gregory Ain House; Hollywood Hills

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I have a client in New York, who is looking to come out to Los Angeles, so went and did a video walk through of the property they are considering. It was done by noteworthy architect Gregory Ain in 1939. With some key updating, including the rich dark hardwood flooring throughout, and updated kitchen cabinets & countertops, it retains it's hip history but allows one to enjoy modern living. The high ceilings and walls of glass throughout are what really makes the home. The curb appeal is absolutely special as well, especially at night when I went and viewed the property. This property is for lease at $4,300/mo. It is 3 beds, 2 baths, & 1751 sq. ft.Listed by Mauricio Umansky - Hilton & Hyland

I broke the house up into three videos to help the speed of the upload. The first video is the main living space with living room, dining room, and kitchen. The second is the master bedrooms and bathroom. The final video is of the downstairs area with the two guest rooms and another bathroom. It is a bit rough, but should give my client a good sense of the property, which is the main objective.

If looking for a similar property for lease or sale, please don't hesitate to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Great Listing but Limited Activity, Why?

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I have been racking my brain constantly trying to decipher why I am not getting very many calls on this one listing, while others are getting a ton of activity. I am using the exact same strategies and marketing avenues, but with a much different result. Of course this particular listing is deep in the Valley, while others are "over the hill;" however, I got to think it is more than just that right? This is a great home for a large family, as it has six bedrooms! It is also in an A+ prime school district. The high school in the district, El Camino Real, has won something like five out of the last ten national academic decathlons. I assumed that this listing would appeal to families, and those people would not be as concerned with designer finishes, etc, and just want a lot of space in a good neighborhood that works for their family. This property does not have updated to the 9's baths and kitchens, but what it does have is a great floor plan, privacy, an entertainer's backyard with pool and hot tub, and in a great neighborhood. On top of all that it is priced very well, as we have reduced the price $80,000 since the original listing price.

23515 CANDLEWOOD WAY, WEST HILLS

Just Reduced to $599,000 6 Bed 3 Bath 2472 Sq. Ft 11,160 Sq. Ft Lot

See a detailed tour of the property at http://23515candlewood.com

This is a very good opportunity for a person with a large family, or for someone who works from home perhaps and could use the extra rooms. It is in a great area, on a good quiet street, and is extremely quiet and private. Let me know your thoughts on this one please, and if you think it is priced right. It has been reduced substantially, and is ready for an offer. This could be a great time to get a ton of value for you and your family, and start 2011 off right in your new home. If you are interested in seeing it in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Thanksgiving at the "Hilltop Haven"

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I had Thanksgiving dinner at my Uncle's house in the beautiful area of LA known as Hidden Hills. You may recognize this area from the show "Keeping up with the Kardashians," as this is where the family used to live and film the early seasons. It is a great area just next to Calabasas. The view from the home I was at was simply spectacular as it looked over the entire Valley. I am sort of a "view guy" so can definitely appreciate one like this and imagine sitting out on the large deck, just thinking and taking in the city.

Eric Smilay
Smilay Properties
www.smilayproperties.com
Sent from my iPhone

Public Transit in LA

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I rode the train the other night from Hollywood to Downtown Los Angeles. It was only the second time I have ridden on the subway in LA. It was a good experience, with no traffic and no expensive parking at your destination, not to mention good for the environment. It is good to see Los Angeles grow and better it's public transportation for all the Angelenos. Lines are expanding and new tracks throughout the city are in the works. If you get a chance, give the subway a shot and see what you think.

Eric Smilay
Smilay Properties
www.smilayproperties.com
Sent from my iPhone

At the Open House Here 1-4 pm

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I arrived here pretty early today to set up signs, open up blinds, etc. I wanted it to be all set before the one o'clock open time. Apparently the "buzz" had superseded my time schedule, as just five minutes after my arrival the property was already swarming with a handful if buyers. Rightly so, as this one is beautiful, in a prime Hollywood Hills location, and priced very well. Please come by today if looking to buy in the area, as this one may not last. The address 3249 Bennett Dr.

Eric Smilay
Smilay Properties
www.smilayproperties.com
Sent from my iPhone

Professional Photographs of Spanish Listing

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I just received the professional pictures I had taken of my listing on Bennett Dr in the Hollywood Hills yesterday back. I think they turned out pretty well. Even a few that are a bit artistic. Here are a few for your review. Please click the link to see the rest of the best we weeded it down tohttp://gallery.me.com/bartondt#100020. Thanks David for your help on this; much appreciated!

The property will be open for the first open house this Sunday from 1-4 pm should you be interested in seeing it in person. If you have any questions please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Is This The Coolest House in LA?

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This home exemplifies modern architecture at it's finest. Lying on arguably the best "bird street" is this futuristic property created by architect Zoltan Pali in 2006. Hovering high above the city at the top of the Hollywood Hills, every room has commanding views through the floor to ceiling walls of glass throughout. High end appliances and finishes throughout, custom cabinetry in the kitchen, and a dynamic wide open floor plan. The home has special details, including a mirrored alcove for one to see into the pool from the billiards room, and a full fledged nightclub. Maybe it is not the best for a traditional family, but it sure is cool.

1654 Blue Jay Way, Hollywood Hills

$11,595,000 4 Bed 6 Bath 9,725/ow Sq. Ft 17,120 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing Courtesy of Benjamin Bacal - Keller Williams Realty Sunset

Notice the see through glass in the background allowing one to see into the pool from the inside

Large gym in the house.

Bring the party to you with it's own full fledged night club area.

And look, even ladies come with the pool.

This property is the epitome of hip high end architecture in Los Angeles, and this is a one of a kind property with out of this world views. Rarely do they come along like this one. If you would like to see this dynamic property, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Stunning Character Spanish; Hollywood Hills

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Great news for home buyers. The owner of this great Spanish character home that I have had for lease for a short time now has decided to sell. Lying in a great location in the Hollywood Hills is this beautiful Spanish style home with intricate character details throughout. Up in the hills with peaceful canyon views and on a great street, but just a minute to the heart of either Hollywood or Studio city. Great curb appeal; upon entry one is struck by the multiple large bay windows allowing a ton of natural light to flood the property. The first floor has a nice open floor plan and houses both a formal living room with fireplace & relaxing family room with soaring beamed ceilings. Also on the top floor is a formal dining room, and huge kitchen with top level appliances like a Fisher & Paykel six burner range and industrial refrigerator. The three bedrooms are downstairs. The master contains a large walk in closet and sumptuous master bath with separate frameless glass shower & bath. There is also an addt'l 1 bedroom apartment space with it's own separate entrance. Also a six car parking garage! Simply a great house in a prime location. If interested in seeing this property, contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

3249 BENNETT DR, HOLLYWOOD HILLS

$899,000 3 Bed + 1 bed additional guest space 3 Bath 2,458 Sq. Ft 4,930 Lot Sq. Ft

Hollywood Development

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All of these buildings are new within the last ten years. From the Hollywood and Highland complex that started the resurgence in the area to new hotels to multiple new apartment and condo buildings. I wonder what the next decade will bring to Hollywood, both in terms of goods and services, and skyline. I think there will be more high-rise type structures, and definitely more mixed use buildings for modern conveniences. What do you think?

Eric Smilay
Smilay Properties
www.smilayproperties.com
Sent from my iPhone

At the Open House of This Fine Property

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Will be here at my listing in the highly acclaimed school district of West Hills from 2-5 today. This 6 bedroom spacious traditional with a great entertainer's backyard with pool has just been reduced $80,000 to $645,000and is now a great opportunity for a buyer right in time for the new year. See a detailed tour at http://23515candlewood.com and call me if interested in seeing in person.

Eric Smilay
Smilay Properties
www.smilayproperties.com
Sent from my iPhone

Character Spanish House for Sale - Hollywood Hills

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In Escrow Back on the market & Reduced. Attention Developers, Contractors, Investors, & Professional Flippers this is a tremendous opportunity that just needs work and updating. Fix up and add value to live in or sell — so much potential here. If done right, I believe this house would sell in the $1M-$1.1M range, so there is a deal to be had here for a savvy investor. Lying in a great location in the Hollywood Hills is this Spanish home with intricate character details throughout. Up in the hills with peaceful canyon views and on a great street, but just a minute to the heart of either Hollywood or Studio City. Great curb appeal; upon entry one is struck by the multiple large bay windows allowing a ton of natural light to flood the property. There is also an addt’l 1 bedroom apartment space with it’s own separate entrance. Also a six car parking garage! Simply a great opportunity in a prime location. Motivated seller.

3249 BENNETT DR, HOLLYWOOD HILLS

Offered @ $749,000 3 Bed 3 Bath + 1 Bed Guest Apartment w/ Kitchen 2,458 Sq. Ft

Please visit http://gallery.me.com/bartondt#100020 for a detailed tour of the professional pictures taken of this fine property. This is a large home that is priced well in this location. It has exquisite Spanish details, an open floor plan, updated kitchens and baths, and is ready to go. If you would like to see this home, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Tallest Building in Hollywood

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This is CIM Group's newest project in Hollywood, and it happens to stand the tallest. The 63 unit tower on Sunset and Vine is a modern masterpiece with walls of glass and high end finishes. Built as condos, these are currently being leased and are available for immediate move in. Rumor has it that you may even call a world famous pop star neighbor there. Give me a call if you would be interested in living here and having views for miles.

Eric Smilay
Smilay Properties
www.smilayproperties.com
Sent from my iPhone

Upgraded Traditional w/ A Modern Twist; Los Feliz

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3801 Aloha St, Los Feliz

769,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 1,380Sq. Ft 5,000 Sq. Ft Lot

Lying in a good Los Feliz neighborhood, just blocks to all the restaurants and shopping on Vermont, is this updated 1940's traditional home. I am a finish guy myself, so put a lot of stock in nice high end finishes, as I think they add so much to a property. This one has exactly that, with a high end kitchen with Viking appliances and bathrooms with Duravit fixturing. The living room is nice as well, as it has a great open floor plan and is flooded with natural light due to a ton of large windows surrounding the property.

Listing Courtesy of Tracy B Do - Prudential California, Los Feliz

This is a well upgraded property with high end finishes in a really good location at a good price. Rarely do properties in this price range come with top of the line modern finishes. If you appreciate and desire these and would like to see this property, please contact us anytime @ 661.600.7463 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Interesting Experience w/ Lease Listing

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I have had this listing for a month now, and have had probably at least six interested parties tell me how much they love the property and definitely want it. Several of these prospective tenant's have gone so far as to submit applications and have their credit ran, and even given financial documentation to support and verify their applications. In the end, not sure what changes, but have just had many of them frankly flake. It is something I just don't understand. If you want a property for you and your family, it's available and let's do it. The people not willing to sign the dotted line once the time comes just perplexes me. Because of these people, the property is still unbelievably still available. It is such a deal and a nice house. Who's going to actually follow through and get to enjoy this fine property in the Hollywood Hills?

Chic Remodeled Studio City Home

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3630 Willowcrest, Studio City

869,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 1,598Sq. Ft 7,030 Sq. Ft Lot

In the hills overlooking Universal City, this home has been recently remodeled with chic modern finishes. Vaulted ceilings throughout add volume, with white walls in contrast to the rich dark hardwood flooring. The kitchen has been upgraded as well with top notch appliances, including a Viking 6 Burner range and built in stainless steel refrigerator. In addition to the high end upgrades, the property has a nice grassy backyard to play as well as entertain. Lying just minutes to all the action of Studio City, this property is in a desirable location with some city views.

Listing Courtesy of Clay Hinrichs - Prudential California Realty

This is a nice home with great curb appeal and high end finishes in a really good location at a good price. It could accommodate many different owner's needs. If you would like to see this property, please contact us anytime @ 661.600.7463 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Beachwood Canyon Mid-Century View Property

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3207 Durand Dr, Hollywood Hills

1,199,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,207 Sq. Ft 9,580 Sq. Ft Lot

Great mid-century view property in popular Beachwood Canyon area of the Hollywood Hills. Property is gated and on a large flat lot with pool and both city and Hollywood sign views. The property has a great open floor plan with 10' ceilings, original terrazzo flooring, and large floor to ceiling windows allowing natural light to flood the home. Not many neighbors around this home, afford maximum privacy to relax and enjoy the ideal Southern California lifestyle.

Listing Courtesy of Raymond Schuldenfrei - Deasy, Penner, & Partners

This is a good opportunity for a buyer who appreciates mid-century design in a prime location. The home would be great for entertaining or just relaxing with the family. If you would like to see this property, please contact us anytime @ 661.600.7463 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.