Sleek Spanish, Great Mix of Vintage & Modern; Hollywood Hills

Unfortunately my client's and I got outbid on this one this week and it is now in escrow, but I still thought it was worthy of posting as it a great mix of vintage elements of a 1926 house and sleek modern finishes. I am not even a huge fan of Spanish style homes in general, but my wife is, and we joked that this would be a great compromise for us. I definitely liked it a lot, and do think it appeals to a wide range of buyer's. It has that character in a home people like, but mixed with sleek modern finishes, which team up to make it a winner. I believe it went very close to the current asking price, which is a fairly high number I think for it, but goes to show both the market strengthening, as well as that people will always pay more for a nicely upgraded designer done property oozing with style. Style and views (they don't show in the pics but there are great views above Hollywood and out to the ocean from this house) are somewhat subjective values, as some people may not care about them, but for the right buyer they can be worth a lot. The seller certainly did a great job, no corners were cut, and top notch finishes were chosen. Well done. Congrats to both the seller and eventual new buyer. They both did well for themselves.

2653 Hollyridge Dr, Hollywood Hills

$1,599,000 (reduced from $1,679,000) 4 Bed 4.5 Bath 2,754 Sq. Ft 5,510 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Imraan Ali - Keller Williams Larchmont

If you would like to find a similar property in the Hollywood Hills area, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email eric@smilayproperties.com.

Hollywood Hills, Jaw Dropping Views, & Cool Mid-Century Style

Stunning downtown skyline and city views greet you from everywhere on this great parcel of real estate in the Hollywood Hills above the Sunset Strip. A cool light filled mid-century home lies on this flat pad with a yard separating the house from the views; one could even imagine adding a pool there if desired. High beamed ceilings in the living room with walls of glass drawing the outdoors in and an open floor plan highlight the home's mid-century style. In addition to the two bedrooms, there is also a large den that could be used as a media room, office, or even a third bedroom. The listing sums up the offering nicely by saying, "All public rooms and the master open to the yard and spectacular, tree framed, unobstructed (no power lines), picture perfect views!" This is a great opportunity for a person who wants to live in the hills in a stylish pad and appreciates an explosive head on view.

1687 Woods Dr, Hollywood Hills

$1,100,000 2 Bed 2.5 Bath 2,133 Sq. Ft 12,240 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Thomas Magazeno - Coldwell Banker-Sunset Blvd

This is an A+ piece of property to be enjoyed or expanded over time, and represents a great opportunity. If you would like to visit this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

New Mid-Century Listing in Nichols Canyon to Start Year

Here is a nice looking new listing to start the year off right. Featuring an open floor plan with soaring open beamed ceilings and walls of glass, this is a stylish mid-century home in a popular area of the Hollywood Hills, Nichols Canyon. The walls of glass frame the living/dining room nicely and flood it with natural light, as well as lead out to a large deck that runs the length of the home and exposes relaxing canyon views. There is rich wood flooring throughout most of the property, and a modern updated kitchen with all stainless steel appliances. The home has two good sized bedrooms, both with high ceilings as well, and two upgraded bathrooms. There is also an additional front deck, which allows for further outdoor entertaining.

2522 Zorada, Hollywood Hills

$797,000 2 Bed 2 Bath 1,550 Sq. Ft 11,000 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Randy Isaacs - Coldwell Banker-Sunset Blvd

This home looks good for the price in a desirable location, close to everything that Hollywood has to offer. If you would like to visit this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com. If you would like to see other similar homes in and around this location as well, please don't hesitate to call, as we would be happy to assist.

Clothing Designer James Perse Lists Bird Street Home

Sitting in the highly desirable Bird Streets section of the Hollywood Hills, fashion designer James Perse lists his updated mid-century modern home. The listing accurately describes the home as, "This modern oasis exemplifies the Southern California lifestyle: floor-to-ceiling walls of glass provide abundant light and seamless indoor-outdoor flow." The property was remodeled into an open loft like space with light wood flooring throughout, clean lines, and walls of glass out to the stunning pool area. The home is gated, private, and is on a rare flat third of an acre in a prime location. It does not have a lot of bedrooms (just one), but for the right buyer, the property is exquisite and is not to be missed. The property definitely resembles the owner's clothing brand's aesthetic and stores, and is even decked out in James Perse own Furniture Line, which can be included in the sale or lease should a buyer/leasee desire. If you are a fan of the owner's brand and the lifestyle, now is your chance to really own and live it.

1432 Oriole Dr, Hollywood Hills

$3,750,000 or lease for $14,500/mo 1 Bed 1.5 Bath 2,235 Sq. Ft 15,750 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Jonah Wilson - Hilton & Hyland

If you would like to visit this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Crazy! $8M & $9.1M Teardowns

Two stunning properties in prime locations, purchased for $9,100,000 and $8,000,000 respectively, being completely redone by their new owner's. 1430 SUNSET PLAZA DR.

This one is especially surprising to me, as it was a super sweet modern architectural home just built in 2009. Take a look at the design and finishes in the pictures after the break, and I think you will agree it was already jaw dropping. Now take a look at the front of the home, and as you can see the new owner is completely gutting the entire home. It is on a great lot with a rare flat grassy area on a promontory on famed Sunset Plaza Dr in the Hollywood Hills with explosive views, and was purchased for $9,100,000. Check out what it looked like before and now.

Pictures of original sold listing courtesy of H. Blair Change & Billy Rose of Prudential CA - Beverly Hills Pictures of the remodeling by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

9970 SUNSET BLVD.

A beautiful mid-century home in original condition, which according to the listing, was "A true classic designed by Arthur Froehlich, a prominent modernist who designed Hanna-Barbera Studios among many others." Lying on a large lot, the home was reduced to rubble by the new owner, who just purchased the home in July of this year for $8,000,000. I wonder what they will build in it's place. I would be willing to bet that it is not as cool as the original mid-century home would have been if it had been updated with modern finishes, and that could have been done at a fraction of the price to rebuild something new.

Picture courtesy of Curbed LA

Pictures of the original sold listing courtesy of Eliane Capdeville & Anthony F. Papillo of Coldwell Banker - Westwood

Hollywood Hills Post & Beam Home w/ Resort Like Backyard

On a cul-de-sac just below the desirable "Oaks" neighborhood, is this nicely remodeled post and beam home with a stunning pool backyard. Imagine relaxing out by the pool, and feeling as if you were on vacation at the Viceroy Hotel at your own home. The pool and yard has been professionally landscaped to be an oasis in the city. The home has two master suites, high ceilings, upgraded baths, and a cool floating staircase. The kitchen is also nicely upgraded with all stainless steel appliances (I don't love the multi-colored cabinets, but that can be easily changed). The living room with it's soaring beamed ceilings, hardwood flooring, and mid-century stone fireplace looks fantastic. This a nice updated home in a great location with somewhat of a "special" resort like yard.

5517 Tuxedo Terrace, Hollywood Hills

$1,250,000 2 Bed 2.5 Bath 2,160 Sq. Ft 11,290 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Holly Purcell- Prudential CA - Los Feliz

If you would like to visit this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Beachwood Mid-Century Modern Magic

This is totally my style and something I would definitely consider if looking for a home in this price range. The Beachwood Canyon area of the Hollywood Hills, right under the famous Hollywood sign, is a great place to live first and foremost, and this one is above the market, where there is less traffic and noise. The house itself is an updated 1953 house with clean lines, a cool white brick fireplace, hardwood flooring, and updated bathrooms. The property is surrounded by massive sycamore trees, adding to the 'away from it all feel.' If in the market for a three bedroom house in the Hollywood Hills under a million, quite simply, as far as I am concerned, this is it.

3050 Beachwood Canyon, Hollywood Hills

$949,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 1,997 Sq. Ft 6,229 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Brian K. Courville - John Aaroe Group

If you would like to see this great looking mid-century modern home in upper Beachwood Canyon, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Cool Mid-Century in Lake Hollywood Area of Hollywood Hills Under $840K

Check out this great looking mid-century home in the Lake Hollywood area of the Hollywood Hills just listed this week. This is a good value at $839K in this location on a nicely updated home. The property has nice curb appeal and an open floor plan. I personally love the high ceilings and the very cool floating staircase. With remodeled baths and an updated chef's kitchen, and light hardwood flooring in this location close to all the studios, this would definitely be worth taking a look at if you are in the market for a home this style. The home has a fair amount of outdoor space with a relaxing patio downstairs and a large deck out to peaceful canyon views upstairs.

3326 Charleston Way, Hollywood Hills

$839,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 1,510 Sq. Ft 5,260 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Steve Sanders - Coldwell Banker-Sunset Blvd

If you would like to see this cool mid-century home in a nice area of the Hills at a good value, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Bird Street Modern Architectural With Rare Tennis Court; Hollywood Hills

Newly built in 2010 is this modern architectural home with top tier finishes throughout in the famous "Bird Streets," arguably the most coveted location of the Hollywood Hills. In addition to the sensational views, this private gated compound features an extremely rare tennis court in addition to it's pool. The stunning estate is very large at 7,500 sq. ft, has a separate detached guest house, gym with locker room, and a theater room. I have visited this property previously and it is quite simply the best of everything in the best location.

9240 Warbler Way, Hollywood Hills

$7,995,000 5 Bed 6 Bath 7,500 Sq. Ft 24,705 Sq. Ft Lot

For a more detailed tour of this property click here

Listing and Photos courtesy of Michael Eisenberg - Keller Williams Realty Beverly Hills

If you are looking for a modern architectural showplace in the best location of the Hollywood Hills, this is it. With a large flat over 1/2 acre property in a highly desirable location, this one is not to be missed. If you would like to see this stunning modern architectural home please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Beachwood Canyon Mid-Century Stunner; Hollywood Hills

Now this is without question something I would definitely consider buying myself if I was looking for a home under $1M in the Hollywoood Hills. Lying in the popular Beachwood Canyon area of the Hills under the Hollywood Sign, this mid-century style home looks great. My taste right now falls right in line with this property with it's clean white walls, light wood flooring, and white brick fireplace acting as the centerpiece of a great living room surrounded in glass. This is a good size property at just under 2,000 sq. ft with a modern kitchen featuring Viking appliances, caeserstone countertops, and cool mosaic tile backsplash. Two good size decks and patios allowing a great space for relaxation or entertaining. If this is your style also, I would advise to run not walk to this one.

3214 Ledgewood, Hollywood Hills

$995,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 1,920 Sq. Ft per owner 6,020 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Edward G. Reily - Keller Williams Realty Los Feliz

If you would like to see this stunning mid-century home in a great Hollywood Hills location, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Private Gated Mid-Century Modern Hollywood Hills Home w/ Great Video

Check out this new listing to hit the market in the Hollywood Hills. The gated home was recently remodeled with polished concrete flooring, updated baths, a gourmet kitchen, and a nice water feature in the entryway. I am a big fan of concrete flooring, as it looks sleek and is easy to maintain, especially if it comes with radiant heat, which this one does. The open floor plan with large floor to ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the property and create a great indoor/outdoor flow. There are three good sized bedrooms and three full bathrooms. The outdoor space is a great place to relax on the weekends or entertain your friend's and family. A good location within minutes of the heart of all that new Hollywood has to offer.

Make sure to check out the marketing video after the break. I have to give the listing agent his just due on this one, as it is nicely done, and gives a sense of the "lifestyle" one could have, should they want it, if they lived there. Well done Sir.

6816 Pacific View Dr, Hollywood Hills

$969,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 1,732 Sq. Ft. 5,000 Lot Sq. Ft.

Listing & Photos/Video courtesy of Eric Lavey - Keller Williams Realty BH

This is another nicely remodeled mid-century home in the Hills that is sure to draw a lot of attention. If you would like to see this stylish home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Mid-Century Compound with Pool in Hollywood Hills

I have not seen this property in person, and I wish there were more pictures of the interior, but from what I have seen I am intrigued. The outdoor space looks picturesque and relaxing. I really like that there is also a flat grassy area along with the sparkling pool on the over 10,000 sq. ft lot. The house is a mid-century post and beam style with an open floor plan and walls of glass leading out to the outdoors. It is only two bedrooms; however, I would assume there is the ability to easily expand. The light wood flooring throughout the property look great. Having recently posted a listing on Bennett, it is a great street in a convenient location to everything. This is definitely something worth seeing, and possibly jumping on. The value is definitely there on this one!

3300 Bennett Dr, Hollywood Hills

$899,000 2 Bed 2.5 Bath 1,900 Sq. Ft. 10,780 Lot Sq. Ft.

Listing & Photos courtesy of Justin Paul Huchel and Zach Goldsmith - Hilton & Hyland

If you would like to see this mini compound with a beautiful outdoor space and pool in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Recent Home I Sold Back on Market as a Flip

I sold this property back in the middle of April, and it has been redone, upgraded, spiffed up and now it is back on the market. When I sold it, the home had many more issues then just aesthetic, so the Seller had to put in significant capital in order to bring this home back to the glamour of it's 1920's roots. It appears that they did a nice job on the property, and quick. Compare the pictures here with the way it was before. The wood flooring in the living and family rooms were a great addition. I love what they did with the fireplace in particular, as it looks so much better in it's current state. They of course painted a clean white throughout, took down the questionable art, and staged the property with nice furnishings; all of which go a very long way during the Buyer's first impression. They also put in all new white cabinetry and grey Caesarstone counters in the kitchen, which look much much better. The master bathroom also looks many times better now with it's dual sinks, and new tile work. The property always had potential, but just needed someone with the know how and energy to bring the home back.

What do you think of the remodel, and will the Seller get their asking price?

3249 Bennett Dr, Hollywood Hills

$1,049,000 4 Bed 4 Bath 2,458 Sq. Ft. 4,930 Lot Sq. Ft.

Listing & Photos courtesy of Courtney N Smith & Kurt Wisner - Nourmand & Associates

Obviously, I have spent a considerable amount of time at this property, so know it and the street very well. In addition to the 3 bed/3 bath main house, there is a 1 bed/1 bath guest apartment with kitchen and it's own private entrance, as it is a legal duplex. This could help pay the mortgage, or great for an office or artist's studio. If you would like to see this newly redone Spanish style home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Futuristic Newly Built Modern Architectural

Take a look at this futuristic modern home just built and listed for sale on famed Mulholland Dr. in the Hollywood Hills. Positioned on a knoll and designed like a space ship ready to take off into the view. Designed by Michael Rostami of Unicon Builders, this home is stunning combination of disappearing walls of glass, steel, and concrete. The views are out of this world, as one looks over all of Los Angeles from the perch of this fine home. The living room with fireplace flows out to the 33 foot infinity pool, and when the glass is removed, the lines become blurred between indoors and outdoors for that true California living experience. High end everything with only the sleekest finishes used. The master suite is enormous and is positioned over the city with an ultra-hip bathroom and a roof top deck. There is also a 1,100 sq ft permitted guest house or office with full bathroom. The listing describes this home as, "The ultimate trophy compound & work of art." They may be right.

7691 Mulholland Dr, Hollywood Hills

$6,750,000 5 Bed 6 Bath 6,000 Sq. Ft./ow 17,859 Lot Sq. Ft/ow

Listing & Photos courtesy of Joshua & Matthew Altman - Hilton & Hyland

This is a rare home that is tough to duplicate, and in short, may be special. If you would like to see this futuristic modern home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Sleek Modern Outpost Architectural; Hollywood Hills

Chic modern architectural home in the desirable Outpost Estates area of the Hollywood Hills. Designed by an Architect for their personal home, and now available. The home features a double height living room, ideal open floor plan, Brazilian walnut hardwood flooring, and high end kitchen and baths. The outdoor space has been utilized remarkably well, and flows out from the living room. It is a secluded private yard with a pool, sitting areas, and great landscaping. I have shown this property previously, and it is very well designed. If you like modern architectural homes, this is a great area, and could be the one...

2613 Carmen Crest Dr., Hollywood Hills

$2,749,000 3 Bed 2.5 Bath 3,480 Sq. Ft. 5,652 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Louise Leach & Juan Longfellow - Sotheby's Int'l Realty

If you would like to see this sleek architectural home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Jason Statham's Hollywood Hills Glass House

One of the several fine homes of movie star Jason Statham (Transporter series, Crank, etc) has just become available. This one is positioned high above the famed Sunset Strip in the Hollywood Hills. The listing describes the home and it's architecture by noting that it's "Reminiscent of the famed Glass House by Phillip Johnson." It is full of clean lines, open space, and walls of glass. Surprisingly, the pictures don't appear as bright as one would think the interior would be in a glass house, but may have just been a gloomy day. The home has three bedrooms, one of which was turned into an office with built-ins. The exterior beckons you outside through the glass walls to the private pool surrounded in nice Jay Griffith designed landscaping. This house would be perfect for the minimalist aficionado.

1522 Rising Glen, Hollywood Hills

$2,749,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,281 Sq. Ft / per title 15,100 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Peter Lorimer - Peter Lorimer Group Estates

In a great location, this uber chic celebrity owned home may be exactly what you have been waiting for. If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Hollywood Hills Stylish Mid-Century Home

Stylish Mid-Century home just listed in the Hollywood Hills. This one is in a nice location above booming Hollywood, and features an open loft like floor plan in the main living area with dark hardwood flooring. The recently renovated kitchen features Caesarstone counters, Ann Sachs tiles and appliances by Miele, Viking and Liebherr. Two bedrooms upstairs, and one on the lower level, which is currently configured as an office/media room. It's got a nice mix of vintage elements and modern touches, and is a nice looking home in a good location with a pool just in time for the summer.

What are your thoughts on this home, finishes used, and the price?

6309 Ivarene Ave, Hollywood Hills

$999,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 1,926 Sq. Ft 7,140 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Geoff Clark - Deasy Penner & Partners

If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

2 Dynamic Mid-Century Modern Homes Listed Above The Sunset Strip

Two redone mid-century homes in the Hollywood Hills above the Sunset Strip with superb finishes were listed this week. They both are almost identically priced, and offer a ton of home in prime locations. The first one is high up Nichols Canyon on Devista, and is a bit more stark and modern with it's white flooring than it's selling competitor. The other is up famed Sunset Plaza Dr and lies on Rising Glen; it is definitely modern and updated, but retains a more warm "homey" feel. They both have nice pools and city views.

See the rest of the first listing and the second home after the break. Which one do you like better? Please comment and let me know as I am interested in hearing your thoughts.

7508 Devista Dr, Hollywood Hills

$2,950,000 4 Bed 4.5 Bath 3,352 Sq. Ft 15,860 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Barry Sloane - Sotheby's Int'l Rlty - BH

1420 Rising Glen, Hollywood Hills

$2,900,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 3,850 Sq. Ft 12,000 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Judy Feder - Nourmand & Associates-BH

Two really nice looking listings that are beyond move in ready and nicely merge style and function. Which one do you like better based on the pictures? If you would like to see either or both of these properties in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Well Priced Mid-Century in Beachwood Canyon Still Available

This listing hit the market a bit over a month ago, and is still available. I think it is a good looking opportunity for a cool mid-century post & beam house in highly desirable Beachwood Canyon. The property has an open floor plan surrounded in walls of glass leading out to large decks and unobstructed city and canyon views. Upgraded chef's kitchen with black granite counter tops and newer cabinets opens up nicely to living and dining area, great for entertaining. The listing describes the "Downstairs loft-style master or guest suite has mini kitchen, tile sunken tub bath and sitting room, den or office with sliding glass doors that open to an extra large deck surrounded by serene canyon & city vistas." This property opens up tremendous opportunities to live in as is or further upgrade to your tastes to create a modern showcase.

2844 Lambert Dr, Hollywood Hills

$869,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 2,604 Sq. Ft (per owner) 3,650 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Rose Ware & Terry Canfield Schmidt - Prudential CA

This is a nice location with a great open floor plan leading out to large decks and stunning views. If you would like to see this property in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Modern Post & Beam; Hollywood Hills

Look at this Modern Post & Beam that just hit the market today. Located up a private knoll and gated off of famed Mulholland Dr., this post and beam property has been updated with "cutting edge design elements," according to the listing. The well laid out space and pocket sliding glass doors allow for perfect true indoor/outdoor California living. The property has stunning views of the city from every room. The listing points out, "Highlights include European kitchen with Miele appliances, 2 living areas, gated drive, multiple skylights, vaulted ceilings, sliding walls of glass, glass roll-up garage door, high ceilings, outdoor fireplace, bamboo & stone floors. Alluring Master bedroom boasts 2 separate bathrooms & wood burning fireplace." It definitely sounds and looks good to me. This is nothing less then a dynamic property in a prime location.

7275 Mulholland Dr., Hollywood Hills

$1,475,000 2 Bed 3 Bath 2,000 Sq. Ft (per owner) 6,750 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Susan L Andrews - Hilton & Hyland

Relatively speaking, there are not that many "done" houses in the hills with jaw dropping views, so if you have been dreaming of one, this could be it. If you would like to see this property in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.