November 2014

12 Unique Housewarming Gifts for the Holiday Season

It’s the holiday season and we can’t wait to taste that juicy Thanksgiving turkey roasting in the oven! Many families start their holiday festivities soon after Halloween, with beautiful lighting up and down the streets of our community, and the smell of fresh fir and cinnamon sticks filling our homes. We love this time of year, can’t you tell?

Whether you will be attending a holiday party hosted by your company, family member, or some close friends, here is a list of noteworthy housewarming gifts that will grace any home!

Techies 

Like themiPhone 6 dock – Yet another way to organize their gadgets! Except this time, this little dock will be dedicated to their everyday necessities; iPhone, watch, wallet, and other accessories.!

Love themPhotojojo Lens Series – Every techie will have either an iPhone or an Android… or both! Give your host the chance to gear up that already awesome camera and let their inner photographer shine!

In love with themJawbone Big Jambox – The best Bluetooth wireless speaker, a staple on every techie’s (or non-techie’s!) desk. With precision-tuned drivers, dual passive bass radiators, and multi-band compressors working in concert, your eyes won’t believe your ears.

Athletes 

Like themMedley in the Meadow Speaker Blanket – Warm, easy to pack, and plays music! Need we say more?

Love themNature Box Subscription – What’s better than an ordinary gift? A gift that keeps coming… every month! Athletes are always looking for healthy snacks to munch on in between meals. Nature Box sends its subscribers 5 full-sized packages of great tasting nutritionist-approved snacks. Choose from a month-to-month, 3 months, 6 months, or 12-month subscription.

In love with themThe Dash Wireless Earphones – Athletes, get ready to say goodbye to your phone. These perfect wireless earphones are integrated with 4GB storage allowing its owner to carry up to 1000 songs in his/her ears. The Dash is also a microphone, Bluetooth headset, fitness tracker, heart rate monitor, and best of all, waterproof. Say goodbye to the days of tangle interfering headphones and music players, and hello to a truly hands-free workout!

Culinary Enthusiast 

Like themRock Glass – Someone who nearly lives in the kitchen may already have all tools they need for all of their secret recipes. Why not grab two sets of these to give their bar section a little boost? 

Love themCuisine R-Evolution Molecular Gastronomy Kit – For experienced culinary lovers, watch the video, enough said.

In love with themNespresso Pixi Aluminium – approved by the pickiest of espresso palates (me included)! Espresso from this machine never tastes watered down, with plenty of flavors to choose from. Will be treasured by any culinary household, guaranteed.

World Traveler 

Like themCelestial Coaster Set – World travelers often times bring home carefully selected pieces from the different countries and cultures they have visited. Once home how nice would it be to kick back, relax, and enjoy drinks with these beautiful coasters?

Love themSelk’bag Marvel Collection Wearable Sleeping Bag – Now not every world travel may be a backpacker, but how awesome are these? When the comfort of a onesie meets your favorite defenders of humanity from arguably the best comic book university- we’re almost sure you’ll never set eyes on another sleeping bag again!

In love with them: GoPro HERO 4 – You’ll have to really love them to get this for your host because it will cost you a pretty penny. A GoPro camera has all the capabilities of a hi-res camera plus so much more… A must for any world traveler!

Obviously, these gifts aren’t only for the Techies, Athletes, Culinary Enthusiasts, and World Travelers! If you have a special host to surprise, it might be a great idea to split the pricier gifts among a group who may also be going to the event. Which one of these gifts would you love to receive?

Lavish Luxury: 10 Multi-Million Dollar Dream Homes

via Leverage Global Partners

Looking for the ultimate in lavish luxury? From extravagant penthouses to sprawling country estates, these 10 multi-million dollar dream homes from our Leverage Partners around the world are the epitome of opulence:

Unparalleled French Country Estate
Represented by J. Rockcliff Realtors  |  $42,000,000

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This custom 100+ acre French Country estate is unparalleled in the Bay Area, with abundant terraces offering vistas of rolling hillsides and valleys.

Exclusive Sunridge Plateau
Represented by Thornhill Real Estate Group |  $14,950,000

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Perched at the top of a Whistler, BC plateau, this magnificent mountain home has endless views and classic Craftsman style architecture with a modern flair.

Marvelous Historical Manor
Represented by Influence Real Estate  |  $12,900,000

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This marvelous historical manor is a Utah gem that is steeped in history, with ornate details that have been carefully preserved the home was established in 1938.

500-Acre Tropical Retreat
Represented by Plantación Properties  |  $29,750,000

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This exclusive Costa Rica estate is a haven of solitude and serenity set amid 500 acres of tropical jungle, majestic cliffs, and dazzling white-sand beaches.

Stunning Fifth Avenue Home
Represented by CORE  |  $34,500,000

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History, elegance, and modern restoration converge in this magnificent Fifth Avenue home with unobstructed views of Central Park and the NYC skyline.

 Quiet Lake Equestrian Estate
Represented by Barbara Cleary’s Realty Guild  |  $29,900,000

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Set against 152-acres of scenic countryside, a classic Tudor-style mansion and pristine state-of-the-art equestrian facilities offer the ultimate haven of privacy and relaxation.

Iconic Hawaiian Destination
Represented by The Boutique Real Estate Group  |  $26,000,000

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Designed according to the timeless principles of feng shui, this Maui estate invites nature in, with whitewater ocean views and warm fragrant breezes.

Modern Homage to Aspen-Living
Represented by Shane Aspen Real Estate  |  $13,900,000

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This modern Aspen home is where quiet and comfort meets excitement and sophisticated elegance, with panoramic mountain views from terraces in virtually every room.

French Normandy Estate
Represented by Partners Trust  |  $18,000,000

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Located in the most prime section of Lower Bel Air, this French Normandy estate is excellent for large gatherings, featuring expansive park-like grounds and elegant formal rooms.

Magnificent Beachfront Villa
Represented by Beauchamp Estates  |  €8,500,000

Beauchamp-Cannes

 Located on the dazzling French Riviera, this beachfront property, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean, is set amongst lush landscaped gardens.

Which of these dream estates would you like to call home?  Please share your ideas below.

Top 10 Luxury Gifts For Long Beach Residents

Written by: Pamela and Ric Dizon

See Pamela and Ric from The Boutique Real Estate Group for great luxury gifts to give to the Long Beach residents on your list.

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Thanksgiving is just a few days away, and that means that holiday gift giving is about to begin. For Long Beach residents who need some especially nice gifts, we’ve assembled our favorite luxury gifts this season.

1. A fine watch. A classic watch from Rolex, Bulova, Omega or other fine watchmakers makes a great gift, as it can be used for years. Fine watches are also often heirlooms that are cherished for generations. Try one of Long Beach’s local jewelers, such as McCarty’s, for great selection and knowledgable staff.

2. Local craft beer or wine. Long Beach residents are fortunate to have several great wine and beer shops close by. Friendly staff who love sharing tips on the best wines and beers will be happy to help you find the perfect bottle.Try Public Beer and Wine Shop for advice.

3. Speaking of beverages for adults, why not find a bottle of aged Scotch? Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky is one of Scotland’s oldest brands, carefully hand-crafted since the 1840s.

4. Of course, Long Beach is best known for its gorgeous beaches. Try Diane’s Beachwear for luxurious beach towels, great hats and sunglasses, and other fine accessories.

5. Create a luxury picnic set with a sturdy picnic basket, fun dishes, a pretty table cloth, and bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Round out the gift with tasty crackers and some nice cheeses or a gift certificate to Olives Gourmet Grocer in Belmont Heights.

6. Some people really don’t want extra things in their home but would love a membership for a museum or other institution. The Long Beach Museum of Art has an extensive permanent collection and many fascinating special exhibitions throughout the year. Click here for information on memberships.

7. The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden at Cal State Long Beach is one of Long Beach’s beautiful outdoor spaces. A membership to the garden is a wonderful gift. The recipient can take an hour or two and relax in the tranquility created by the Zen principles followed in the landscape design. Visit the Japanese Garden’s website here.

8. For theatre lovers on your list, purchase a subscription for the 2015 season of the International City Theatre. Subscribers can attend 5 shows and receive discounts at fine local restaurants. Visit ictlongbeach.org for more information.

9. The Queen Mary is one of Long Beach’s most famous landmarks. The gift of a night in one of the original state rooms makes a great gift. There are several overnight packages, which include special tours of the ship. Visit queenmary.com to choose the right vacation.

10. The Long Beach Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a Classical Series performing classic literature with world-class musicians and soloists. A gift of tickets to a classical or a pops concert makes a wonderful gift. Visit lbso.org to see the season schedule.

10 Sophisticated Dining Room Designs

via Leverage Global Partners

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Nothing beats enjoying a lavish meal at home, with ample space and elegant ambience to wine and dine with your friends and family. Complete with sophisticated design, exquisite details, and unique furnishings, these eye-catching dining rooms from some of our Leverage Partners will make you feel like you’re dining in a five star restaurant from the comfort of your own home.

Extraordinary Estate
Represented by Tyler Redhead & McAlister Real Estate  |  $3,500,000

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Ideally situated in the rolling foothills of North Carolina, this expansive North Carolina estate features a gorgeous, spacious dining area.

Private & Serene Home
Represented by Turnquist Partners Realtors  |  $4,695,000

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Enjoy a panoramic view of downtown Austin & the Texas hill country from the dining room of this private & serene home.

An Iconic, World-Class Destination
Represented by The Boutique Real Estate Group |  $26,000,000

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Tastefully decorated and furnished, this estate dining room on Maui’s coast offers ocean views and warm fragrant breezes.

Magnificent Home in Stone Cliff
Represented by Red Rock Real Estate  |  $3,999,950

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An exquisite masterpiece in St. George, Utah, this magnificent home offers a handsome dining room created with unsurpassed craftsmanship.

City Tower Azabu-Juban
Represented by Housing Japan  |  ¥400,000,000

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Experience impressive views of Tokyo from the dining room of this ultra modern penthouse with glass curtain walls.

Exquisitely Designed Condo
Represented by Forest Hill Real Estate Inc.  |  $6,995,000

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Nestled in the most elegant and exclusive building in Toronto, this condo dining room is timeless and flawless.

Grand Vacation Home
Represented by Nectar Real Estate  |  $1,400,000

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Designed with the vacation guest experience in mind, this grand home in Celebration, Florida includes dining seating for 16 people.

Unparalleled French Country Estate
Represented by J. Rockcliff Realtors  |  $42,000,000

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This custom French Country estate is unrivaled in the Bay Area, with a substantial dining room decorated with elegant finishes.

Hollywood Hills Contemporary
Represented by Partners Trust  |  $10,000,000

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Elevated high above the City of Angels, the dining area of this grand estate is worthy of the most discerning of tastes.

Dallas Penthouse
Represented by Allie Beth Allman & Associates  |  $10,950,000

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Floor to ceiling windows and a view from the 30th story give this Dallas penthouse striking yet unpretentious ambience.

Do you dream of feasting in your own luxurious dining room? Which sophisticated dining room style is your favorite? Share your ideas and leave your comments below.

Agave Home Sparks Homebuyer Interest at Wrap It Up Holiday Sales Event

via William Lyon Homes

IRVINE, CA–(Marketwired – Nov 6, 2014) – The William Lyon Homes Wrap It Up Holiday Sales Event is sparking homebuyer interest with special deals on select homes, including one irresistible offering at the beautiful attached-home neighborhood of Agave in the Village of Portola Springs®. Priced at just $642,000, Residence 3, Unit 95 spans 1,715 square feet with three-bedrooms, three-baths, evolve spaces and a direct-access two-car side-by-side garage. The bright and voluminous interior is adorned with refinements including an upgraded flooring throughout, window coverings, upgraded paint and a convenient location near the community park. Interested buyers are urged to call 949.333.3847 today or visit the sales gallery for more information. Immediate details are available at www.LyonAgave.com. With sales teams motivated to get buyers into their ideal new home before year’s end, there’s no better time to take advantage of this event’s valuable, limited-time opportunities. Visit www.LyonHolidaySoCal.com to view all participating neighborhoods’ Featured Homes.

“Buyers are drawn to Agave because it’s such a wonderfully unique neighborhood,” said Lesley Pennington, Vice President of Sales for William Lyon Homes. “The setting is naturally inviting and the townhome designs are unlike any other in the Irvine area. This Featured Home in particular is an absolute must-see — and one that won’t be available much longer. If you’re interested, contact us soon.”

With prices starting from the low $500,000s, Agave is now selling its final townhomes. Four innovative floorplans range from approximately 1,355 to 1,810 square feet, with well-designed interiors presenting 2 to 3 bedrooms, 2 to 3 baths, spacious living areas, flexible spaces, eco-friendly features and 2-car side-by-side or 2-car split attached garages.

The neighborhood’s ideal location near Portola Parkway and CA-133 offers convenience and serenity in a naturally scenic village that invites easy access to resort-style recreation including parks, pools and tennis courts, as well as scenic trails for walking and hiking. Agave is also located within the top-rated Irvine Unified School District.

The Village of Portola Springs® within the Villages of Irvine® offers residents the luxury of exceptional surroundings, with sweeping views of Loma Ridge and the vast expanses of protected open space. Close to a variety of amenities designed to make the most of the pristine natural environment, Portola Springs features beautiful homes in an array of inspired architectural styles that are just minutes from the region’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment.

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Created by Irvine Company Community Development, the Village of Portola Springs is located in the City of Irvine. Money Magazine recently ranked The City of Irvine as “the top small California city to live in for 2014.” The highly-acclaimed master-planned community is renowned for allowing residents to enjoy a unique lifestyle unmatched in the region — some of the best schools in the state; America’s safest city for nine straight years; abundant open space, parks and recreational opportunities and world-class dining, entertainment and employment. For more Information about the Villages of Irvine, visit www.VillagesofIrvine.com.

It matters who your builder is, and William Lyon Homes means it when they say that they put themselves into their homes. They build each and every home as if it were their own and have earned a solid track record for constructing quality homes backed by a solid customer service program since 1954. Learn more by visiting www.lyonhomes.com for updated information on William Lyon Homes’ new neighborhoods.

To visit Agave from the 405 Freeway or I-5, exit Sand Canyon Avenue and proceed north. Turn right onto Portola Parkway, left on Portola Springs and follow the signs to the Agave Sales Gallery and Models, which are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 949.333.3847.

Prices, plans and product information subject to change. Special Deals only apply to select homes that are subject to close escrow before 12/31/14. All homes subject to prior sale. Only one home available with the features listed on www.LyonHolidaySoCal.com. Homes that do not already have flooring are subject to added price if upgrade is selected by buyer. Prices subject to change with the addition of more features/upgrades. Features and availability of homes subject to change without notice. Prices effective as of 10/15/2014. Photos shown are model homes and not actual featured homes. See sales counselor for details. CalBRE License #00982816. 10/2014