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Our local real estate market experts at Market Watch LLC have just released their September Desert Housing Report. Here’s a summary:

SEPTEMBER SALES RECOVERY: At the height of the pandemic in January of 2021, home sales were 59.7% above the norm (based on home sales over the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019). By January of this year, home sales fell to 34.7% below the norm. After improving for four months at the beginning of this year, home sales have stopped improving and are now 27.7% below the norm for this time of year. Market Watch’s confessed that their prediction early this year that home sales would return to the norm by the end of the year is no longer realistic. They explained that it was based on their belief that inflation would fall to 3% and mortgage rates would be around 5.5% by the end of the year. They felt that recent actions by the Federal Reserve now makes this unlikely.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY DETACHED HOME MEDIAN PRICE: The median price of a detached home in the Coachella Valley ended September at $660,404 (unchanged from August but down 1.4% year over year). Market Watch felt that the small decline in detached home median prices over the last four months was primarily a seasonal decline (since the summer months almost always bring some price weakness in detached homes in the Coachella Valley). However, they also noted that with both inventory and home sales at low levels, supply and demand continue to remain in balance.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY ATTACHED HOME MEDIAN PRICE: The attached home median price in the Coachella Valley in September was $435,000 (down $4,000 from August & down 6.5% year over year). Market Watch stated that the seasonal change in the price of attached homes is much larger than that for detached homes. Market Watch expects that if the normal seasonal pattern continues, the attached home median price should begin to increase moving into the end of the year and into the new year.

SEPTEMBER 12 MONTH CHANGE IN THE PRICE OF THE AVERAGE SIZE HOME BY CITY: In every city, other than La Quinta and Bermuda Dunes, the price of the average size detached home in that city declined year-over-year in September. The declines in price of the average size detached homes ranged from -0.8% for the 1,600 sq ft average size detached home in Desert Hot Springs to -7.9% for the 2,200 sq ft average size detached home in Palm Desert. The price of the average size attached home increased year-over-year in September in six Coachella Valley cities, ranging from an increase of +1.2% for the 1,450 sq ft average size attached home in Bermuda Dunes to +10.1% for the 1,950 sq ft average size attached home in Indian Wells.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY MONTHLY HOME SALES – 3-MONTH TRAILING AVERAGE: In the Coachella Valley, the three-month average of home sales declined in September to 532 homes per month (down 49 homes or 8.4% from 581 home sales in September 2022). Market Watch pointed out that in September the homes sales decline continued proportionally in both the detached and attached market. In September, the Coachella Valley’s monthly average home sales were running 27.7% below the norm calculated from home sales in 2016 through 2019).

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY MONTHLY HOME SALES – 12 MONTH TRAILING AVERAGE: Home sales, using a 12-month trailing average (which removes seasonality from the data), averaged 573 homes per month in September (down 6 home sales from August and down 250 homes sales or 30.4% from 823 home sales per month in September 2022). Market Watch felt that this chart showed that the long-term average of monthly home sales was flattening and they believe the worst is over. However, they stated that they continue to believe that home sales won’t recover until mortgage rates come down from 7.5% to around 5%.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY HOME SALES BY CITY: In every Coachella Valley city, other that Cathedral City, Indian Wells, Desert Hot Springs and Rancho Mirage, the 3-month average of home sales declined year-over-year in September. The largest home sales decline was in Palm Springs (down 18% year-over-year). The largest home sales increase was in Rancho Mirage (up 18%). Market Watch noted that home sales were comparable to year ago levels in every city, which showed that the low home sales problem in the region is widespread and not unique to any particular city.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY HOME SALES BY PRICE RANGE: Market Watch noted that home sales were comparable to September 2022 levels in all price ranges (other than for homes priced between $600,000 and $900,000).

OCOTOBER 1^st COACHELLA VALLEY HOME INVENTORY: On October 1st , Coachella Valley home inventory was 1,762 homes (up from 1,601 homes on September 1^st and down from 1,801 homes on October 1^st, 2022). Market Watch felt that some of this increase in inventory was seasonal and they expect the seasonal increase in inventory to continue for the next 3 or 4 months.

OCTOBER 1^ST COACHELLA VALLEY REGIONAL MONTHS OF SALES RATIO: On October 1st, the Coachella Valley’s months of sales ratio was 3.1 months (up from 2.8 months on September 1^st and up from 2.2 months on October 1^st, 2022). Market Watch explained that this fundamental ratio measures supply and demand and they felt that at 3.1 months it represented a balanced housing market pointing to relatively stable home prices going forward.

OCTOBER 1^st MONTHS OF SALES RATIO BY PRICE RANGE: The months of sales ratio was higher year-over-year in every price range. Because the increase in the months of sale ratios year-over-year were approximately the same in all price ranges, Market Watch felt that this showed that the Coachella Valley housing market had no distortions in supply and demand in any price bracket.

OCTOBER 1^st MONTHS OF SALES RATIO BY CITY: The months of sales ratio was higher year-over-year in every Coachella Valley city other than Coachella. The increase in the months of sale ratios year-over-year were approximately the same in all cities other than Thousand Palms.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY REGIONAL DAYS IN THE MARKET: At the end of September, the median number of days in the market in the Coachella Valley was 38 days (same as in August and six days more than the 32 days in September 2022). Because of continuing low inventory, Market Watch thought that the median selling time will stay around current levels for some time.

SEPTEMBER COACHELLA VALLEY DAYS IN THE MARKET BY CITY: In September, Coachella had the lowest median selling time for detached homes at 24 (down from 28 days in September 2022), followed by Cathedral City at 31 (up from 29 days in September 2022), and then Desert Hot Springs at 32 days (up from 29 days in September 2022). With regard to attached homes, Desert Hot Springs had the shortest average selling time at 28 days (up from 23 days in September 2022), followed by La Quinta at 33 days (down from 50 days in September 2022) and Palm Springs at 35 days (up from 26 days in September 2022).

SEPTEMBER PERCENTAGE OF HOMES SELLING ABOVE LIST PRICE: In September, 17.1% of home sales in the Coachella Valley sold above list price (compared to 28.8% in September 2022). Market Watch stated that the percentage of homes selling above list price to remain at current levels moving into fall and winter and as home inventory grows.

SEPTEMBER AVERAGE HOME SALE PRICE DISCOUNTS BY CITY: In September, detached homes were selling for an average discount ranging from -0.2% in Coachella to -3.0% in Rancho Mirage. Average discounts for attached homes in September ranged from -1.5% in Indio to -4.3% in Bermuda Dunes.

The Briggs Group / Coldwell Banker Realty | Laurie Briggs DRE 01896117 | Tim Briggs DRE 01898254 | Coldwell Banker Realty DRE 00616212

Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of Coachella Valley’s new holiday tradition. And perhaps best of all, admission is priced per vehicle not per person.

Magic of Lights will run from November 17th to December 31st, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday nights and from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://magicoflights.com/events/coachella-valley/

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker / Laurie Briggs – DRE 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE 01898254 / Coldwell Banker – DRE 00616212

Fresh new paint and fresh new price, this home is blank canvas from which to create your desert dream home. Located inside Rancho Mirage’s guard-gated Mira Vista community, this spectacular 4,057 square feet, 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home overlooks the first fairway of the Mission Hills North Gary Player Course. Some features of this home:

• 4,057 Sq Ft, 3 Bedrooms + Office/Optional 4th Bedroom | 3.5 Bathrooms | 13,939 Sq Ft Lot
• Great Curb Appeal with Stacked Stone Accents & Wood-Look Garage Doors
• Beautiful Golf Course & Mountain Views With No Homes Located Across The Fairway From This Home
• Open Floor Plan Great Room Combining Foyer, Living & Dining Rooms, Kitchen & Breakfast Nook
• Interior Recently Painted
• Living Room Features A Circular Conversation Area, Wet Bar & Gas Fireplace
• Primary Bedroom Suite Includes Sleeping Area, Sitting Area, 2 Walk-In Closets & En-Suite Bathroom With Separate Tub & 2 Person Shower
• Guest Wing With 2 Bedrooms (Each With An En-Suite Bathroom) & Media/Family Room
• Backyard Includes Large Pool/Spa & Large Covered Patio With Commercial Quality Heaters & Misting System
• Double Car Attached Garage & Single Car Detached Garage Both With Epoxy Floors

MLS# 219090469 | Now listed at $1,425,000 | Details, photos, video & virtual tours & floor plan at: http://www.45vistaencantada.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker Realty / Laurie Briggs - DRE# 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE# 01898254 / Coldwell Banker Realty – DRE# 00616212

Remodeled Palm Valley Country Club Golf Course Condo With Double Fairway & Mountain Views | Open House: Sat. Oct. 21^st from 11AM to 2PM | 76222 Sweet Pea Way, Palm Desert (Palm Valley Country Club) | New Price $769,900

This stunning 2,198 Sq Ft, 3 bed, 3 bath beautifully reimagined Sycamore model home features an extended and tiled west facing back patio overlooking the 4th and 8th fairways of the Ted Robinson Jr. Championship Course, with Mount San Jacinto and the Santa Rosa Mountains as a backdrop. Inside you will find a tastefully remodeled interior with an open floor plan great room, modern kitchen with stylishly refinished cabinetry, Caesarstone countertops and stainless-steel appliances. Community amenities include fitness club, 46 pools and spas, golf, tennis/pickleball, dining and a vibrant social calendar.

Features Of This Home At A Glance:

•         Remodeled Palm Valley Country Club Golf Course Condo
•         West Facing, Extended & Tiled Rear Patio With Built In BBQ
•         Panoramic Double Fairway Golf Course & Mountain Views
•         2,125 Sq Ft, 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Sycamore Model End Unit
•         Open Floor Plan With Vaulted Ceilings & Plank-Look Tile Floors In Main Living Areas
•         Remodeled Kitchen With Caesarstone Counters & Stainless Steel Appliances
•         Primary Bedroom With En-Suite Bathroom & Extra Office/Den Space
•         Two Car + Golf Cart Attached Garage
•         46 Community Pools & Spas, 16 Tennis Courts, 2 Golf Courses & Large 100,000 Sq Ft Clubhouse

MLS# 219093004 | Now Listed at $769,900 | Details, photos, virtual & video tours & floor plan at: http://www.76222sweetpea.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker / Laurie Briggs – DRE# 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE# 01898254 / Coldwell Banker – DRE# 00616212

(Please click on the image above to view our YouTube Shorts video) 

Updated Midcentury Gem In Indian Wells Country Club

Cancelled Open House: Sun. Oct. 22^nd from 11 AM to 2 PM | 76950 Sandpiper Dr, Indian Wells (Indian Wells Country Club) [Cancelled Due to an Accepted Offer]

Timeless Luxury. Nestled in the heart of Indian Wells, this mid-mod condo is a captivating blend of beauty, sophistication, and craftsmanship. With three spacious bedroom suites, each featuring walk-in closets and sleek bathrooms, this home offers comfort and style in abundance. Don't miss your chance to experience the Indian Wells lifestyle in this remarkable condo.

Features Of This Home At A Glance:

•         Midcentury Gem In Indian Wells Country Club
•         2,392 Sq Ft | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
•         Each Bedroom Has A Walk-In Closet & Large En-Suite Bathroom
•         Gourmet Chef's Kitchen With Rich Wood Cabinets, Slab Granite Counters & Upgraded Appliances
•         Large Rear Patio & Central Atrium Ringed With Walls Of Glass Provide Plenty of Light & Outdoor Living Space
•         Large Rear Patio & Central Atrium Provide Plenty of Light & Outdoor Living Space
•         Attached Two-Car Plus Golf Cart Garage With Plenty Of Storage Cabinets

MLS# 219100901 | Listed at $799,000 | Details, photos, virtual tour & floor plan at: http://www.76950sandpiper.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker / Laurie Briggs – DRE 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE 01898254 / Coldwell Banker – DRE 00616212

(Please click on the image above to view our short YouTube Shorts video)

Open House: Sat. Oct 14 & Sun. Oct. 15 from Noon to 3 PM - 3 Summer Sky Circle, Sterling Estates, Rancho Mirage

Stunning Contemporary Home In Rancho Mirage’s Sterling Estates - New Price: $2,599,000

A rare opportunity to own in prestigious Sterling Estates. This eco-friendly, 5 bedrooms with 5 ensuite bathrooms, modern luxury home has been recently and stunningly redesigned and upgraded by the Owner/Architect. The seamless indoor-outdoor living is enhanced by professionally landscaped mature grounds and gorgeous mountain views.

Features Of This Home At A Glance:

•         Located In Rancho Mirage's Gated Sterling Estates Community
•         3,540 Sq Ft, 5 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms
•         16,988 Sq Ft Professionally Landscaped Lot
•         Open Floor Plan Great Room With Retractable Wall Of Glass
•         Gourmet Kitchen With Sub-Zero, Wolf & Bosch Appliances
•         Detached Casita With En-Suite Bathroom & Retractable Wall Of Glass
•         Raised Infinity Edge Saltwater Pool & Spa
•         Prepaid Solar Lease & Tesla Charging Station

MLS# 219099794 | Now listed at $2,599,000 | Details, photos, virtual tour & floor plan at; http://3summersky.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker / Laurie Briggs – DRE# 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE# 01898254 / Coldwell Banker – DRE# 00616212

(Please click on the image above to view our YouTube Shorts video)

Open House: Saturday October 14^th from 10 AM to 1 PM | 137 Via Estrada, Date Palm Country Club, Cathedral City

 Amazing Value: Stylishly Reimagined Date Palm Country Club Home

Amazing Value! Elegance, style and comfort await in this newly and exquisitely renovated gem!  This home boasts a generous open floor plan with 1,650 square feet of living space, featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths + climate-controlled bonus room. This splendid abode was lovingly reimagined with custom home quality finishes and hand selected upscale furnishings. 

Features Of This Home At A Glance:

•         Completely Reimagined Date Palm Country Club Home
•         1,650 Sq Ft | 2 Bedrooms + Bonus Room | 2 Bathrooms
•         Upgraded HVAC System | Updated Plumbing & Electrical | Newer R38 Insulation
•         Newer Drywall & Vinyl Laminate Floors Throughout
•         Renovated Kitchen With Newer Cabinets, Quartz Counters & Stainless Steel Appliances
•         Renovated Bathrooms With Newer Cabinets, Fixtures, Quartz Counters & Tile Shower/Tub Enclosures
•         Being Sold Partially Furnished
•         55+ Date Palm CC Offers An 18 Hole Ted Robinson Designed Executive Golf Course, Club House, Tennis & Pickleball Courts & 5 Pools/4 Spas

MLS# 219100372 | Listed at $220,000 | Details, photos, virtual tour & more at www.137viaestrada.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker / Laurie Briggs – DRE 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE 01898254 / Coldwell Banker – DRE 00616212

A-m-a-z-i-n-g V-a-l-u-e! Elegance, style and comfort await in this newly and exquisitely renovated gem!  This home boasts a generous open floor plan with 1,650 square feet of living space, featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths + climate-controlled bonus room. This splendid abode was lovingly reimagined with custom home quality finishes and hand selected upscale furnishings.  From the inside out, the entire residence has been thoughtfully redesigned with a modern aesthetic, featuring a revamped HVAC system, a plethora of brilliant skylights and upgraded plumbing/electrical.  Step into a world of active, vibrant 55+ living.  Within the friendly gates of Date Palm Country Club, you'll find: a Ted Robinson designed executive 18-hole golf course, tennis and pickleball courts, 5 pools/4 spas, restaurant, dog park, and many more amenities. Indulge in the convenience of having the Agua Caliente Casino, the picturesque Town Square Park, and the renowned Mary Pickford Theatre just a stone's throw away. For those seeking even more excitement, downtown Palm Springs is just a short drive, offering a world of upscale shopping, delectable dining, and sensational entertainment. Don't hesitate, call today to embark on a private tour and discover firsthand why Date Palm Country Club is the epitome of a fun and inviting country club. Where luxury meets affordability.

Features Of This Home At A Glance:

•         Completely Reimagined Date Palm Country Club Home
•         1,650 Sq Ft | 2 Bedrooms + Bonus Room | 2 Bathrooms
•         Upgraded HVAC System | Updated Plumbing & Electrical | Newer R38 Insulation
•         Newer Drywall & Vinyl Laminate Floors Throughout
•         Renovated Kitchen With Newer Cabinets, Quartz Counters & Stainless Steel Appliances
•         Renovated Bathrooms With Newer Cabinets, Fixtures, Quartz Counters & Tile Shower/Tub Enclosures
•         Being Sold Partially Furnished
•         55+ Date Palm CC Offers An Executive 18 Hole Ted Robinson Designed Golf Course, Clubhouse, Tenis & Pickleball Courts & 5 Pools/4 Spas 

MLS# 219100372 | Listed at $220,000 | Details, photos, virtual tour & more at www.137viaestrada.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker / Laurie Briggs – DRE 01896117 / Tim Briggs – DRE 01898254 / Coldwell Banker – DRE 00616212

If you’re here in the Coachella Valley or coming here, and looking for some fun things to see and do, here’s some suggestions, courtesy of our fun loving colleagues, Catherine, Dawn And Valori, at First America Title:

Concert for Autism | Sept. 29-Oct. 21| Multiple Venues

This year’s Concert for Autism features the following events: (1) Kickoff Event: Friday, September 29th, 7:30 pm at Big Rock Pub in Indio, CA; (2) Sunday, October 8th, 1 pm at Coachella Valley Brewing Co. in Thousand Palms, CA; (3) Saturday, October 14th, 7 pm at The Hood Bar and Pizza in Palm Desert, CA; and (4) Main Event, Saturday, October 21st, 4 pm at Tack Room Tavern in Indio, CA. For more information: 760-702-4110 | www.concertforautism.com

First Wednesday Art Walk | Oct. 4 from 5-7pm | Backstreet Art District, 2652 Cherokee Way, Palm Springs

Backstreet is a unique community of artists’ working studios & galleries, and businesses that provides artistic services (reprographic, restorative and framing) in Palm Springs. For more information: www.backstreetartdistrict.com

Fall Concerts in the Park | Oct. 5-26 – Every Thursday from 6-7:30pm | Civic Center Park Amphitheater, Palm Desert

In addition to live music under the stars, treat your taste buds to the mouthwatering culinary creations offered by mobile eateries or bring your picnic baskets along with your blankets or lawn chairs. The concerts kick off on October 5th with a performance by Classic Journey, a tribute to Journey’s iconic late 70s and 80s anthems and ballads, as well as hits from TOTO, REO, Jefferson Starship and Kansas to name a few. Come experience a show that is part concert and part dance party featuring Top 40 Dance, Motown, Disco, Classic Rock, Jazz and Pop music by The Mighty Untouchables on October 12th. Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of bossa nova when Leanna and Miguel, a vocalist and her conga sensation husband, take to the stage October 19th.  Then prepare to groove to the electrifying beats of the 80s when this concert series closes on October 26th with a show by 80s Ladies. For more information: 760-568-1441 | https://discoverpalmdesert.com/concerts/

Fellini Retrospective | Oct. 6 from 7-9pm | Camelot Theatre, Palm Springs

Come early and mingle while enjoying Italian food and Drink Specials. Tonight's movie is "And the Ship Sails On". In 1914, a cruise ship sets sail from Naples to spread the ashes of beloved opera singer Edmea Tetua (Janet Suzman) near Erimo. For more information: www.psculturalcenter.org

The Rocky Horror Picture Show 48th Anniversary Spectacular Tour | Oct. 6 at 8pm | Agua Caliente Resort Casino, Rancho Mirage

Join the original ‘Brad Majors’, Barry Bostwick, for a screening of the original unedited movie with a live shadow cast and audience participation! Plus a memorabilia display with artifacts and an actual costume from the movie, and costume contest. For more information: www.aguacalientecasinos.com

Power Trip | Oct. 6-8 | Empire Polo Grounds, Indio

A three-day heavy metal music festival featuring Guns N' Roses, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Judas Priest, Metallica, and Tool. For more information: https://powertrip.live/

Steel Magnolias| Oct. 6-15 | Palm Canyon Theatre, Palm Springs

All the Southern ladies who are anybody come to Truvy’s salon for their haridos and free advice including the town’s curmudgeon, an eccentric millionaire, a woman with a raging sweet tooth, and the local social leader and her daughter. For more information: www.palmcanyontheatre.net

Elements Dinner | Oct. 7 at 7pm | PS Underground, Palm Springs

Our secret dinner menu reflects the essence and flavors of each element, and is distinctively prepared and presented with awe-inspiring culinary and visual artistry. For more information: www.psunderground.com

Palm Springs Walk of the Stars | Oct. 11 from 3-4pm | 217 S Palm Canyon Drive

Star Dedication for Leslie Jordan, For more information: 760-325-1577 | www.pschamber.org

La Quinta Concert in the Park | Oct. 14 from 6:30-8:30pm | SilverRock Park

Featuring “All Night Meat Bingo”, a band from Garden Grove, CA that plays covers of Blues, Classic Rock, and Rock. Some of their influences include Tom Petty, Johnny Cash, Nirvana, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Neil Young, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. There will be food truck vendors on site, however attendees are welcome to bring low back chairs, blankets, food, and non-alcoholic beverages. For more information: 760-777-7000 | https://www.playinlaquinta.com/event/concerts-in-the-park-2-3-2-2-2-2/

Evening Under the Stars | Oct. 14 from 5:30-9pm | Palm Springs

AAP - Food Samaritans’ Evening Under the Stars is back. This reinvented celebration returns the event to its original ‘garden party’ roots. AAP is honored to also announce a special guest appearance by the legendary Lily Tomlin. Tickets for the benefit include hosted bar, “heavy hors d’oeurves” by Eight4Nine, entertainment, and valet parking. For more information: www.aidsassistance.org

Paint El Paseo Pink | Oct. 14 at 7:45am | The Gardens on El Paseo

A community walk to help raise awareness for breast cancer and to raise much needed funds for the Desert Cancer Foundation. For more information: 760-773-6554 | www.paintelpaseopink.org

Yum Food Fest | Oct. 14-15 - Sat 2-10pm, Sun 12-8pm | The Shops at Palm Desert

The ‘MUST ATTEND’ event for all foodies will feature food trucks, food pop-ups, sweets & treats, drinks, and culture/artisan vendors. Yum Fest will also feature a kids zone, live music from your favorite DJs, bands, and entertainers. For more information: www.yumfoodfest.com

Palm Springs State of the City & Awards Ceremony | Oct. 17 from 5-7:30pm | Palm Springs Art Museum

Join us for food and wine reception, catered by Lulu California Bistro. Listen to the Palm Springs City Council as they share exciting new ideas and celebrate accomplishments. For more information: www.pschamber.org

Modernism Week - October | Oct. 19-22 | Various Greater Palm Springs Locations

Modernism Week - October is a four-day long “mini-Modernism Week” featuring more than 50 events, including tours, talks, and parties in unique locations not regularly open to the public. For more information: www.modernismweek.com

Star Party at the Monument | Oct. 21 from 6 - 9pm | Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center

Join members of the Astronomical Society of the Desert for fun “sky tours” and direct observations of the night sky through telescopes and binoculars. For more information: 760-862-9984 | https://www.desertmountains.org/calendar/starparty10-21

Tacos, Tequila, & Chavelas Festival | Oct. 21 from 4-8pm | Veterans Memorial Park, Coachella

Live band and DJ, mechanical bull rides, roping and corn hole games, food booths and aguas frescas! Up to a dozen taco vendors competed in the past for the “Best of Festival” title. For more information: 760-347-0676 | https://gcvcc.org/event/tacos-tequila-chavelas/

GROW at the Gardens | Oct. 21 from 8am-5pm | Gardens on El Paseo, Palm Desert

This event is a partnership with Shay’s Warriors-Life After Cancer and is a mini-retreat open to the cancer community and their families with day-long wellness experiences. For more information: 760-862-1990 | www.thegardensonelpaseo.com

Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge | Oct. 21 from 6:30-10:30am | Tram Way, Palm Springs

You’ll climb almost 2,000 feet from the desert to the mountains in just 3.7 miles! You’ll start at the intersection of Tram Way and Highway 111, with stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains in front of you and the Coachella Valley behind (and end at Desert regional Medical Center…hopefully not). For more information: 949-444-2365 | www.runsignup.com

Autism Society Inland Empire Halloween Spooktacular| Oct. 21 from 10am-1pm | La Quinta Community Park

Carnival games, a corn maze and inflatables, trick-or-treat stations, community resources, and more. This is a fun, safe alternative to nighttime trick or treating, particularly for those with sensory issues. For more information: 951-220-6922 |www.ieautism.org

The Great Hispanic Fair | Oct. 21-22 | Anfiteatro Cathedral City

Folklorico performances, live entertainment and cultural cuisine/presentations representing Mexico, Central & South America. Event organizers also plan to include a car show, vendor artisan market, and carnival rides/games. For more information: 760-812-9120 | www.mayalaferia.com

Hike for the 23rd Anniversary of the SRSJM National Monument | Oct. 24 from 8:30am-1pm | PCT & Snow Creek Canyon Rd, Whitewater

Come out to celebrate the Monument’s 23rd anniversary with a special hike lead by the Monument Manager for the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. For more information: 760-862-9984 | www.desertmountains.org

Rancho Mirage State of the City | Oct. 24 from 11am-1pm | Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

Find out more about what's happening in Rancho Mirage, the Playground of Presidents. For more information: 760-568-9351 | https://ranchomiragechamber.org/event-calendar/

Earl Henderson Trail Hike | Oct. 24 from 9am-12pm | Earl Henderson Trailhead, Bogert Trail at Barona Rd, Palm Springs

Enjoy this easy hike along the hillside above Araby Wash. Explore the wonders of this critical habitat area to learn about the endangered Casey’s June Beetle and fire ecology in this sensitive habitat area. For more information: 760-862-9984 | www.desertmountains.org

Desert Candlelight Concerts | Oct. 26 at 6pm | Mary Pickford Theatre, Cathedral City

Tonight's artist is Marc Antonelli. Comfortable Theater Seating. Wine and Beer Available for purchase. A portion of proceeds to benefit The Family YMCA of the Desert. For more information: www.desertcandlelightconcerts.com

Fourth Friday Art Walk | Oct. 27 from 4-7pm | Perez Art District, Cathedral City

Offers a unique chance to witness the creative process across a variety of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. For more information: ww.facebook.com/ThePerezArtDistrict

Cathedral City Día de Los Muertos Festival | Oct. 28 from 11am-3pm | Desert Memorial Park

Palm Springs Unified School District students are invited to participate in the annual Día de Los Muertos Youth Art Exhibition, sponsored by S.C.R.A.P. Gallery. Selected work will be exhibited at the Día de Los Muertos at Desert Memorial Park. Decorate a butterfly in memory of a loved one and place it on the community altar. For more information: www.diadelosmuertoscatcity.com

DAP Health Equity Walk | Oct. 28 at 9am | Ruth Hardy Park, Palm Springs

Consistent with DAP Health’s almost 40-year history of protecting and expanding access to health care, the organization has renamed its perennially popular Desert AIDS Walk the DAP Health Equity Walk as an affirmation of its mission to removing all barriers to care. For more information: www.daphealth.org

Chili Cook-Off and Car Show | Oct. 28 from 10am – 5pm | Palm Springs Air Museum

Burn rubber to see some awesome rides and enjoy a tasting of various chili offerings for the Museum’s volunteers secret recipes. Chili tastings are $1/ taste or $5 for six tasting tickets. For more information: https://palmspringsairmuseum.org/programs/halloween-themed-chili-cook-off-car-show-5/

Desert Winefest | Oct. 28-29 - Sat 1-5pm, Sun 12-4pm | Omni Resort Rancho Las Palmas

The Desert WineFest Team is excited to announce it’s partnership with the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa where the resort’s 5th Fairway will host the inaugural 2023 Desert WineFest. Save the dates for October 28th & 29th in beautiful Rancho Mirage, CA. We look forward to raising a glass with you all. Until then….Cheers! For more information: 818-994-4661 | www.desertwinefest.com

Cathedral City Halloween Spooktacular | Oct. 29 from 12-3pm | Civic Center Plaza

Features trick or treating with more than 50,000 pieces of candy! Costume contests, exhibitions by Cathedral City Police and Cathedral City Fire, music, and family games. This year’s event will also feature special performances by Cathedral City High School’s Ballet Folklorico group. For more information: www.discovercathedralcity.com

Halloween Palm Springs | Oct. 29 from 4-10pm | Arenas District, Palm Springs

A free annual event with live music, food, drinks, and a costume contest! VIP tickets available that include a meet & greet with headliners, an exclusive side-stage viewing, access to Effen Vodka Lounge with a hosted bar, snacks, and more. For more information: www.halloweenpalmsprings.com

Golf Cart Parade | Oct. 29 from 8am-2pm | El Paseo Drive, Palm Desert

"Time Machine" Celebrate Palm Desert's 50th Anniversary by traveling back to 1973, or forward to 2073 - or anywhere In between! Rotary Pancake Breakfast. Kids & Family Fun Zone, Beer Garden, Food Trucks, Marketplace Booths, Local Bands and Entertainment. Parade rolls at noon! Flyover by Palm Springs Air Museum Warbirds. Classic Cars. Decorated Golf Cart Floats Marching Bands & Dance Troupes. For more information: www.pdacc.org

Garstin Trail Hike | Oct. 31 from 9am-12pm | Bogert Trail at Barona Road Hills Dr., Palm Springs

Learn the importance of this critical habitat area for the endangered Casey’s June Beetle and other tidbits about Palm Springs history and the National Monument. For more information: 760-862-9984 | www.desertmountains.org

College of the Desert Street Fair | Starting Oct. 7^th - Every Saturday & Sunday from 8am-2pm | 43500 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert

With merchandise and services for all ages and any budget, the Street Fair offers more than 300 merchants, artists, a farmer’s market, live entertainment, gourmet food and more. For more information: 760-636-7957 | http://codaastreetfair.com

The Briggs Group | Coldwell Banker Realty / Laurie Briggs - DRE# 01896117 / Tim Briggs - DRE# 01898254 / Coldwell Banker - DRE# 00616212   

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Local real estate market experts, Market Watch LLC, have just released their August 2023 Desert Housing Report. Some of the highlights:

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST SALES RECOVERY: After improving for four months, Coachella Valley home sales in August stopped moving toward normal for this time of year (based on Coachella Valley home sales in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019) and are currently 24.4% below the norm. Market Watch admitted that their projection for normal home sales by the end of the year is no longer realistic. They explained that it was based on their belief that inflation would fall to 3% and mortgage rates would fall to 5.5% by the end of the year. Market Watch noted that recent actions by the FED made this unlikely.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST DETACHED HOME MEDIAN PRICE: The median price of a detached home in the Coachella Valley at the end of August was $660,404 (down 0.8% from $665,500 in July and down 3.2% from $682,000 in August 2022). Market Watch felt that this decrease in the detached home median price was primarily a seasonal decline, since the summer months in the Coachella Valley almost always bring some price weakness. Market Watch did not expect this to translate into anything more than a seasonal issue, because while home sale inventory is slowly contracting, home sales are also low, so supply and demand remain in balance.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST ATTACHED HOME MEDIAN PRICE: The median price of an attached home in the Coachella Valley at the end of August was $439,000 (down 2.4% from $450,000 in July and down 6.1% from $467,500 in August 2022). Market Watch noted that if the normal seasonal pattern were to continue, attached home median price weakness should continue for another month or two. Lastly, they believed this attached home median price weakness was seasonal, since supply and demand remain in balance.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST TWELVE MONTH CHANGE IN THE PRICE OF THE AVERAGE SIZE HOME BY CITY: In August, in every Coachella Valley city other than Desert Hot Springs home prices decreased year-over-year price for each city’s average size detached home. The price decreases ranged from 3.2% for the average size 3,175 sq ft detached home in Rancho Mirage to 11.6% for the average size 3,450 sq ft home in Indian Wells. Desert Hot Springs experienced a year-over-year increase in August of 0.2% in the price of the average size 1,600 sq ft detached home in that city. For attached homes in the Coachella Valley in August, four cities (Indian Wells, Desert Hot Springs, La Quinta and Rancho Mirage) saw year-over-year increases in the price of the average size home in those cities ranging from a year-over-year increase of 1.4% in the price of the average size 1,775 sq ft attached home in Rancho Mirage to an increase of 13% in the price of the 1,950 sq ft average size attached home in Indian Wells. Year-over-year attached home price decreases in the other Coachella Valley cities in August ranged from a decrease of 0.1% in the price of the average size 1,050 sq ft attached home in Indio to a decrease of 11.3% in the price of the average size 1,450 sq ft attached home in Bermuda Dunes.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST MONTHLY HOME SALES - THREE MONTH TRAILING AVERAGE: The three-month average of home sales declined year-over-year in August to 623 home sales (51 home sales or 7.6% less than the average of 674 home sales in August 2022). Market Watch pointed out that the home sales decrease is occurring proportionally in both the detached and attached market and mirrors the Coachella Valley’s seasonal home price decline. Again, August Coachella Valley average monthly home sales were approximately 24.4% below the 2016-2019 historic norm.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST MONTHLY HOME SALES - TWELVE MONTH TRAILING AVERAGE: In August, the Coachella Valley’s 12-month average of home sales (which takes out seasonality from the data) averaged 579 units a month (down 31.3% from an average of 843 home sales per month in August 2022). Market Watch felt that the long-term average of home sales was starting to flatten out and the worst may be over. They did state that monthly average home sales won’t fully recover until mortgage rates fall from 7.5% to around 5%.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST HOME SALES BY CITY: In August, year-over-year home sales decreased in every Coachella Valley city other that Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage (where monthly home sales increased year-over-year by 10.6% in Cathedral City and 11.3% in Rancho Mirage). The largest percentage decreases year-over-year in August were in Palm Springs (down 18.5% year-over-year) and Indio (down 11.1% year-over-year).

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST HOME SALES BY PRICE RANGE: Market Watch felt that home sales in all price ranges were finally comparable to August 2022 levels. In fact, the two years looked like mirror images of each other. They did note one exception in sales of homes priced over $800,000, where home sales averaged about 20% less than in August 2022.

COACHELLA VALLEY SEPTEMBER 1^ST TOTAL HOME SALE INVENTORY: On September 1^st, the Coachella Valley home sale inventory was 1,601 homes (down 28 homes from August 1^st and up 8 homes from September 1^st, 2022). Market Watch noted that some of the recent slow decline in inventory was seasonal but the primary reason for the low inventory level was the low number of new listings. They expected the normal seasonal increase in inventory to begin next month.

COACHELLA VALLEY SEPTEMBER 1^st REGIONAL MONTHS OF SALES RATIO: On September 1^st, the Coachella Valley’s months of sales ratio was 2.8 months (up from 1.9 months on September 1^st, 2022). Market Watch noted that the months of sales ratio measures supply and demand and they felt that 2.8 months represented a balanced housing market. In turn, they felt this points to continuing stable home prices.

COACHELLA VALLEY SEPTEMBER 1^st MONTHS OF SALES RATIO BY PRICE RANGE: Market Watch noted that the September 1^st months of sale ratios were higher than the September 1^st, 2022 months of sales ratios in every price range. Market Watch felt that the fact that the year-over-year increase was approximately equal across all price ranges indicated that the Coachella Valley market was showing no distortion in supply and demand in any price bracket.

COACHELLA VALLEY SEPTEMBER 1^ST MONTHS OF SALES BY CITY: Market Watch commented that other than in Thousand Palms what was notable is how equal the increases were in each city compared to year ago levels. They felt that this showed that supply and demand were balanced in all of the Coachella Valley cities.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST REGIONAL DAYS IN THE MARKET: At the end of August, the median number of days in the market in the Coachella Valley was 38 days (up from 28 days in August 2022). Because of low home sale inventory, Market Watch expected the regional days in the market to continue to gradually move lower and be equal to year ago levels within a month or two.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST DAYS IN THE MARKET BY CITY: The city of Coachella continued to have the lowest median selling time for detached homes at 22 days (down from 26 in August 2022), followed by Cathedral City at 31 days (up from 23 days in August 2022) and then Desert Hot Springs at 32 days (up from 19 days in August 2022). In the case of attached homes, in August Desert Hot Springs had the shortest average selling time at 29 days (up from 22 in August 2022), followed by La Quinta at 30 days (down from 35 days in August 2022) and Palm Springs at 33 days (up from 20 days in August 2022).

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST PERCENTAGE OF HOMES SELLING OVER LIST PRICE: In the Coachella Valley in August, 17.5% of homes sold above list price (compared to 38% in August 2022). Market Watch expected the percentage of homes selling over list to remain at current levels as inventory grows moving into fall and winter.

COACHELLA VALLEY AUGUST PRICE DISCOUNTS BY CITY: In every Coachella Valley city in August, detached homes were selling at an average discount, ranging from -0.3% in Cathedral City to -2.9% in Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells. In August, average discounts for attached homes ranged from -1.4% in Indio to -5.8% in Bermuda Dunes.

The Briggs Group / Coldwell Banker Realty | Laurie Briggs DRE 01896117 | Tim Briggs DRE 01898254 | Coldwell Banker Realty DRE 00616212