The big news was the release of Retail Sales, which increased a larger than expected .6%, best explained by the seasonal back to school rush.  The bond market snoozed through the news but the stock market reacted positively.Items of note: Consumer Confidence fell to 82, lowest reading in a year, keep in mind this survey consists of 300 consumers, so not sure how representative it is of the overall segment. Bond Market closed the week with lower prices, higher yields:        2 year  yield     4.20%        5 year yield      4.41%        10 year yield    4.68% Producer Price Index rose by 1.1%, higher than expected, but core PPI only rose by .1% vs. the .2% number expected. I read Kaye Thomas' Manhattan Beach, Market Snapshot post and want to reference the Wall Street Journal article she... 10/12/2007

It was a sad day in Burbank when NBC announced today that after broadcasting out of its Burbank Studios since 1952 that it will be moving to a new facility in Universal City.Having grown up in the city I also grew up with the NBC Peacock staring at me almost everyday.  Allthough Universal City is only a few minutes away it will still not be the same."The Tonight Show," local news operations and "Access Hollywood," along with other programming, will be relocated to Universal City, which includes Universal Studios, its theme park and CityWalk.   " 'The Tonight Show' put us on the map," Burbank Mayor Marsha Ramos said. "Without that line from Johnny Carson about 'beautiful downtown Burbank,' most people wouldn't even know that we exist. When 'The Tonight Show' leaves, there will be a porti... 10/11/2007

I spoke with Burbank real estate specialist, Ana Connell, today.  Ana's "other life" paralleled mine; she was a manager for a securities brokerage firm before she started her career in real estate brokerage.  We chuckled as we talked about the principles of technical analysis and how it might apply to residential real estate .  I want to share the product of our discussion with you, the Southern California property buyer.I think that the real test of proper pricing for Southern California real estate is revealed when we analyze properties like a long-term investor may.  We are getting close to parity here.  If a property can create net positive cash flow, with a 20% down payment, and a a current market rate, interest-only loan, the game's over.  Long-term investors will flock to that pu... 10/10/2007

Whether you are looking for a place to take the kids to play, shoot some hoops, play some ball, get in some tennis, go for a swim or just sit and relax.  Burbank has more than enough to accomodate your needs.All our parks are well maintained places where you can always go to enjoy a nice day in the shade.Below is a list of parks in the City of Burbank.Bel Aire Park · 1750 N Bel Aire DrBrace Canyon Park · 2901 Haven Way Earthwalk Park · 1922 Grismer Ave.George Izay Park · 1111 W. Olive Ave.Burbank Little Theater · 238-9998Olive Recreation Center · 238-5385Sports Office · 238-5330Creative Arts Center · 1100 W. Clark Ave. · 238-5397Joslyn Adult Center · 1301 W. Olive · 238-5353Johnny Carson Park · 400 Bob Hope Dr.Maple Street Playground · 3820 W. Jeffries AveMcCambridge Park · 1515 N. Glen... 10/07/2007

Many people who come to visit Burbank usually come for business or to visit the Studios.  There is one very well kept secret about this great city.  That secret is the De Bell Public Golf Course.Nestled in the mountains overlooking the city and most of the San Fernando Valley is a challenging 18 hole Golf Course, Driving Range and a 3 Par course.  The course holds a nice challenge for beginner or novice alike and wraps around the mountains.  It also provides a great workout if you should you decide to walk the course as there are also many hills along the course as well.It is conveniently located near the Castaways Restaurant, Starlight Amphitheatre and the hiking trails.  There are discounts for Burbank Residents as well as Senior and Junior Golfers.1500 E Walnut Ave Burbank, CA  91501... 10/07/2007

                  Martino's Bakery has been a fixture in the Burbank Community since 1926.  They started as a small pie business in a garage and grew into a household name in Burbank.  The quality is incredible and you can always count on great service when you go there.Located at 335 North Victory Blvd. they are centrally located in the heart of Burbank.  Their claim to fame(which has been well earned) is their "World Famous" Tea Cakes which are always a must for any visitor and or for any party.  They have served cakes for countless weddings in our area and are a true fixture in the community.They have always managed to keep the mom and pop feel of the establishment and will always walk out satisfied.For more info give them a call at 818-842-0715 or just stop by, you will NOT be disap... 10/06/2007

     If you are ever in Burbank or even close by on any Saturday afternoon, this is a must see detour for you.  It will not be hard to find near the corner of Magnolia and Buena Vista as you will see a huge cloud of smoke coming from the parking lot behind the Shell gas Station.  As you get closer you will find the line of people waiting for the fresh meat that is being served off of the row of BBQ's in the parking lot.Take you pick as everything is great.  You have a choice of Turkey Legs, Tri-Tip(my favorite), Chicken and ribs.  All are great sized portions and the ribs have a ton of meat on them.  If you are looking for a great cold sandwich then you simply have to walk inside to the deli which has the reputation of having "The best meat in Burbank".  There fresh deli sandwiches are ... 10/06/2007

                             Local Housing Update: Period 9-15-07 to 10-05-07        Average new listings/day          Average closed sales/day     # Pending Sales/day Burbank                                                  3.8                                                                          .86                                        2.7 Toluca Lake                                             .43                                                                         .33                                        .48 Studio City                                            2.86                                                                         .48                                       1.81 Average listings per day were down from last period(8/31-9/14), Burbank was down by 24%, T... 10/05/2007

 The big news was the release of NonFarm Payrolls today.  They rose by 110k, which was close to the consensus but it sent bond prices sharply lower.Items of note:Pending Home Sales fell to a larger than expected 6.5% in August Bond Market closed the week with prices sharply lower:        2 year  yield     4.07%        5 year yield      4.33%        10 year yield    4.64% Stock market keep rallying on, there's even talk of 15,000!  More to come on Sunday when I put out the Week Ahead post!!!Please feel free to visit me at anaconnell.com!  10/05/2007

Well, it's getting to be that time of the year again.  Time to get the kids dressed up and out to trick or treat.In an effort to keep trick or treating safe and fun for the kids has set up "Booo-tiful Downtown Burbank - Halloween day, October 31"On October 31st parents are invited to bring their kids to Downtown Burbank from 4-7pm merchants participating will be providing treat for all the little ghosts and goblins.Hope to see you there. 10/05/2007

In an effort to promote water conservation and bring back Burbank's native landscape, there will be a workshop where you can learn how to cultivate native and California friendly plants! This event features Lili Singer, a recognized garden plant writer and plant expert! Where:Buena Vista LibraryWhen: Tuesday, October 23, 7-8:30pm          Monday, November 5th 7-8:30pm  Free drought tolerant seeds and refreshments at the event! For your Burbank real estate needs, please visit me at anaconnell.com!   10/05/2007

  In order to promote awareness about our limited landfill capacity City of Burbank is promoting a "Second Chance Weekend" on October 13 & 14, 2007! This is a statewide recycling event and it is our chance to keep household items out of our landfills!   On this weekend you will not need a garage sale permit and it won't count against the annual number of permitted garage sales!For any further questions about this event, please call City of Burbank License and Code Services Division, 818-238-5280, or check them out at www.burbankca.org/license. For your Burbank real estate needs, please contact me or visit me at www.anaconnell.com.      10/04/2007

 We all use flyers.... So here are some helpful tips!  Things to keep in mind when designing a flyer!Highlight benefits not features. No one is interested in knowing about the long history of the company. They want to know what the product is and how that product will help to make their life easier. So try to give information about the product not about the company.· Use colored or textured paper: Select the paper that will be noticeable among other flyers but have a professional look. Bright colors should not be used try to use such colors that make flyer delicate and attractive.Make the flyer easy and attractive for potential customers so that they keep on reading. · Eye-catching photo of your property lisitngInclude a large, colorful photo in the top one third of the flyer. If compan... 10/02/2007

 There are items from last week worth mentioning:City Council approved the carry over of funds toward the construction around the Magnolia Power Project.  The Council denied the permit parking request on Evergreen Street. new and revised energy efficiency programs for businesses and homes.  What it means to you is that the city will be offering more rewards for energy efficient homes.  Cm. Golonski dissented as he objected to the program's inclusion of non-profit centers. Items of note for  this week:Don't forget that tonight is the General Plan Update meeting!   The Burbank City Council meets at City Council Chambers in City Hall, 275 E. Olive Ave.  Tuesday at 6:00pm.  Please visit me at anaconnell.com!  10/02/2007

Welcome to Fall 2007 in Burbank! Burbank Real Estate market is stable and a good opportunity to invest & prosper. There is only (1) bank owned listing, 11 short sales (4) lease with option to buy.  Burbank is a great community to call home.   Active listings:  355 single family houses & 40 condos/townhouses are available for sale as of 10/01/07 from sales price $399,000 to $3'900,000. Sold listings:  44 listings were sold in September 2007, (29 houses & 15 condos/townhouses) Average market time:  61.8 days (1-30 days 11 units, 31-60 days 11 units, 61-90 days 10 units, 91-120 days 5 units, 121-180 days 5 units, total 44 units sold) Tips for Sellers:  A home that is priced right and staged properly typically will sell for more and in half the time it takes to move others.  Think about thi... 10/01/2007

The City of Burbank has the best resources, training and consulting services available to all who is interested in prosper.  We are proud to live, learn and work in Burbank CA.  Below is just one of the reasons why Burbank is a great community to call home!   Burbank Team BusinessBurbank Chamber of Commerce https://burbankchamber.org/https://www.burbankca.gov/businesshttps://dtnbur.com At Burbank Team Business, we link the best resources for training, consulting and access to capital with those Burbank residents who want to start a business, and business owners who are poised for growth or are seeking stability in today's promising economy. Together, we'll help you start, grow and develop your business to its fullest potential! The City of Burbank has partnered with CHARO Community Deve... 09/30/2007

 OCTOBER 2007 - Please find below a list of events sponsored by educational, municipal, non-for-profit and community organizations in Burbank & nearby areas. Please call to confirm these events.  thank you.10/26/07 UpdatedCommunity Calendar - OctoberSaturday, Oct. 27, at 9:30am. Village Christian Schools (Burbank-adjacent) will have its Community Open House for Elementary School, Middle School, and High School. Meet principals, faculty, and parents; tour the campus; pick up an informational DVD; stay for the complimentary BBQ lunch. For more information or to reserve a space at the Open House, please call Admissions at (818) 767-8382. For general school information please visit:http://www.villagechristian.org/Saturday, October 27, 7 pm. Piano Students of Jongeun Oh.  Brand Library Recit... 09/30/2007

                                                                                                         Monday  1ISM Manufacturirng Index Consensus-52.9 Survey of manufacturing firms that measure their sentiments on a variety of areas including employment, production, new orders and inventories. 3 & 6 Month Bill Auction Tuesday  2Pending Homes Sales Index-Release from NAR Gauges demand and momentum of housing market ICSC-USB Store Sales  Tracks comparable weekly sales from major retail chains and represents 10% of total retail sales.  Is considered to be one of the most timely indicators of consumer spending.  Redbook a timely indicator of consumer spending and also represents about 10% of total retail sales.  This measure tracks weekly sales from discounters, chain and department stor... 09/30/2007

Last week was quite eventful.  We saw Existing Home Sales in August come slightly lower than expected, they came in at an annualized pace of 5.50M.  The big story, however, was the Home Inventory numbers at an all time high!  New Home Sales were down 8.3% to an annualized level of 795,000, lowest level in 7 years.The Case-Shiller home price index fell by 3.9%, and the 10-city metro index fell 4.5% on a year-over-year basis.  This was the steepest drop in sixteen years according to this index. Other items of note:Rumors that Warren Buffet and a few Chinese banks were considering an "investment" in Bear Stearns......ummm, seems like a bail out to me. GM and UAW strike came to an end.  UAW will now be managing the trust fund that is supposed to take care of the 275,000 retired GM workers.... 09/29/2007

  Thank you taking the time to read this post. I am posting it in ENGLISH/SPANISH (spanish posting is at the bottom).  I am interested in providing information for everyone interested and for the Latino Market in Burbank CA, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles County.  When your local housing market is down and you have to sell, what do you do? You want top dollar, you may also need to sell in a hurry -- especially if moving day is right around the corner.       In a tight housing market, remember that you are competing with all of the other homes for sale in your neighborhood. The key to success is to make your home and the deal itself more attractive than what the competition is offering without giving away too much.       If you find yourself having to sell into a slow market, here are ... 09/26/2007