Plateau of Prices Continues

Prices began to plateau in DTLA (and most of LA in general) this year. But this isn't too surprising--prices have been steadily going up every year since the crash, and it was due to level off at some point. That point is now.

Translation: Great time for buyers to get in while prices are softening and interest rates are still very low.

Savvy sellers are still getting top dollar though, if the home is remodeled. Nicely updated properties are still going over asking and with multiple offers. The fact is, inventory is low, but even lower for good homes.

Good updates for condos and loft spaces & resale value:
1. Modern kitchen with no moldings and fussy details
2. Do with less upper cabinets and instead opt for a kitchen island with storage to make up for it
3. Hardwood or Concrete floors all the way. No one wants carpet these days!
4. Do not paint crazy accent wall colors. Use a muted or neutra like gray or taupe for accent walls.
5. Add window shades but not curtains
6. Go easy on the Carrara Marble--the look can get played out very fast if you have too much of it
7. When in doubt, paint the entire interior white and use pops of art and color to add to walls.
8. Add plants--always trending are Fiddle Leafs, as well as Monsteras, Draconias and Money Plants
9. Dark kitchens are making a comeback--but only if done well with the right blacks and grays and dark blues. Otherwise, keep it light.
10. Plywood in lofts is getting played out. Unless it's in closet built-ins, don't use it in kitchens and bathrooms.