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The Outsiders' Guide to Moving to Palm Springs
Paul Kaplan
I've made it a professional goal to be known as a leader in the Real Estate industry in the Palm Springs market for the past 20+ years...
I've made it a professional goal to be known as a leader in the Real Estate industry in the Palm Springs market for the past 20+ years...
Are you thinking of making a move to beautiful Palm Springs?
Throughout our professional careers, there are many moments where most of us imagine living a life dedicated to rest and leisure. Moving to a place like Palm Springs offers numerous opportunities to enjoy the leisure lifestyle yet to be as active as you want. Palm Springs is one of those places that is on everyone’s bucket list. The weather is perfect, the food scene is unparalleled, and the culture is marvelous. The laid-back desert community is especially ideal for people who want to rest and enjoy their serenity but also be able to have fun.
Palm Springs consistently ranks as a top destination for visitors and new residences alike in Southern California. Retirees often choose Palm Springs as a more affordable alternative to L.A. That gives it a higher-than-average population of older adults, which also makes it one of the best retirement communities in Southern California. Moving to Palm Springs, will provide residents with a gorgeous climate, an abundance of cultural and outdoor activities, plus world-class restaurants and shopping. Palm Springs also boasts a thriving nightlife with numerous entertainment options for people from all walks of life. A favorite destination within the state, the Palm Springs and the neighboring other Coachella Valley cities are some of the most appealing communities for those seeking an active lifestyle.
Palm Springs may sound most promising for a reason—the haute desert destination lives up to the hype and fame. The town is known for its mid-century modern architecture, stylish desert resorts, world-class golf courses, and relaxed ambience. Palm Springs also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, like the Coachella Music Festival, Modernism Week, and the Palm Springs International Film Festival, attracting many celebrities and A-listers.
Most people claim that Palm Springs is one of the most idyllic places to live. You can have a luxurious lifestyle for a price more affordable than surrounding southern California destinations. The downside of Palm Springs for many is its weather, but if you don’t mind a hot desert climate, or can escape during the summer months, this town should be towards the top of your list of where to move. So, start packing your bags and escape to Palm Springs.
If you want to become a Palm Springs resident, this guide will provide all the info you need to get started!
Palm Springs—why it’s an ideal place to live.
Palm Springs is renowned for its leisure lifestyle, sunny climate, outdoor recreation which includes hiking, golf, horseback riding, pickleball, tennis, and swimming. With nearby attractions like the Living Desert, The El Paseo Shopping District, and Joshua Tree National Park enticing locals and tourists alike, Palm Springs enjoys a strong economy that supports its many diverse cultural, arts, and retail opportunities.
From luxury estates, mid-century bungalows, to country club condos, the Palm Springs area has a variety of housing options for all lifestyles.
Palm Springs’ top neighborhoods
Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley's diverse neighborhoods provide something for everyone. Here are just a few local favorites:
Vista Las Palmas/Old Las Palmas
Vista Las Palmas and Old Las Palmas are the perfect neighborhoods for those who appreciate luxury living close to downtown Palm Springs. With its stunning mountain views, classic Mid-Century and Old Spanish architecture, it's easy to see why this area has historically been popular with celebrities. Just blocks away from award winning restaurants, night life and shopping along Palm Canyon Drive, it's easy to understand why this is one of Palm Springs' most desirable neighborhoods.
See Homes in Vista Las Palmas and Old Las Palmas Here
Deepwell
Deepwell is an affluent, fashionable neighborhood with a long history. Featuring many midcentury-style homes, it has a unique architectural legacy. While primarily residential, the area is just south of Downtown Palm Springs, and a short distance to a number of highly rated boutique shops and eateries.
Racquet Club Estates
Racquet Club Estates, located on the northern area of town, is renowned for its mid-century homes built by the Alexander Construction Company. With nearly 550 single family residences, Racquet Club has quite possibly the largest collection of mid-century homes. The vast majority of residences in this unique neighborhood are attributed to very iconic and respected area developers and architects. A favorite past time is lounging by a pool, enjoying drinks and conversation while watching the tram work its way up the mountain. Racquet Club Estates is home to Victoria Park and is close to elementary schools. Just a few blocks from downtown Palm Springs, its easy to understand why this neighborhood is so popular.
See Homes in Racquet Club Estates Here
Warm Sands
This vibrant neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and gives you easy access to the city's many downtown cultural attractions and activities located just a few blocks to the west. Many of the small boutique style resorts are located in this neighborhood. Here you’ll find diverse collection of architecture ranging from 1950s bungalows to modern architectural homes.
Escena
Escena is one of the few gated golf course communities in Palm Springs. It features one- and two-story homes featuring mostly modern and contemporary architecture, all surrounding the golf course. Located on the east side of town, the community features some of the best views in town. Enjoy entertaining friends and family on the outdoor terrace of the Escena Golf Club and Restaurant, just a short bike ride or golf cart ride from your home! Close to major shopping centers, including Lowes and Home Depot, as well as the freeway, this location is the ideal location for those seeking a resort style home.
Indian Canyons
The Indian Canyons neighborhood of Palm Springs is perhaps best known for its peacefulness, its proximity to the mountains and the Indian Canyon Park, golf and of course architectural properties. There is a magnificent public championship golf club, which includes two par 72 golf courses: not to mention a restaurant with an impressive dining experience as well as a spectacular clubhouse, on the North course overlooking the famous Disney fountains. Some of the best hiking trails are located nearby, as well as horse stables at Smoke Tree Ranch where you can go horse-back riding.
See Homes in Indian Canyons Here
Popular areas for newcomers
If you’re just dipping your toes in Palm Springs culture and want an affordable place to live somewhere centrally located that gives you a taste of everything the city has to offer, these are the best communities that feature affordable condos for new residents seeking a sample of the area’s lifestyle. Many newcomers desire to be lose to Palm Canyon Drive's restaurants, shops, nightclubs, wine bars, boutiques, and even a brewery! Here are some of our favorite complexes:
Casa Verde
Located near the Convention Center and a few blocks from Palm Canyon Drive, is Casa Verde. A community of single flat condos in two story building, they offer one- and two-bedroom floor plans at affordable prices. There are two resort-style pools, plus tennis courts and putting green. Living here is like being on a permanent vacation! You can't beat the location for the price.
La Palme
One of the larger condo communities in town, is La Palme. This vibrant community is conveniently located across from the Palm Springs International Airport, yet don't expect to get a lot of plane noise living here. This gated community consists of single level flats in two-story buildings, all with private patios or balconies to enjoy the outdoors. There are numerous resort-style pools scattered throughout this complex.
Ocotillo Lodge
Ocotillo Lodge is a historic complex built by the Alexander Construction Company. The complex features adorable mid-century bungalows as well as single level flats located in two story buildings. The iconic champagne cork shaped pool sets the scene for this resort-style community. Located in south Palm Springs, it is close to major shopping, grocery stores, including Trader Joes, just a short drive away.
See Homes in Ocotillo Lodge Here
Finding the best real estate opportunities
Connecting with an experienced real estate agent is essential when it comes to buying in a competitive city like Palm Springs. An expert can help you navigate the often-complex process of buying a home, helping you understand the various neighborhoods, and assisting you with everything from finding properties that meet your criteria to negotiating contracts with sellers.
The Paul Kaplan Group prides itself on being Palm Springs' premiere real estate experts and we’re here to answer whatever questions you have about the local market. 760-459-1396, [email protected] www.PaulKaplanGroup.com
Think you might be ready to see some attractive Palm Springs homes? Here are some recent listings:
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