Lake Tahoe Real Estate - Wally Johnson

Cream of the Crop Ski Real Estate in South Lake Tahoe

wjohnson — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:16:12 +0000

Happy Lake Tahoe Homeowners: The Walsh Family

If your’re a winter enthusiast who’s ever thought about owning real estate in one of the world’s best snow playgrounds, beautiful South Lake Tahoe, right now could be the perfect time to buy.

Whether your favorite mountain resort to visit is Heavenly, Kirkwood, or Sierra-at-Tahoe there are current real estate listings for every budget with great value…looking for a fixer upper near Heavenly Mountain Resort? How about a newer, custom Tahoe style cabin on the way to Sierra-at-Tahoe? Townhouse right in the middle of Kirkwood Meadows?

To help you get started with your search for that special Tahoe real estate geared toward your winter dreams, the following are current, partial lists of the Cream of the Crop for every budget:

Heavenly Mountain Resort Vicinity

On the Way to Sierra-at-Tahoe

809 Kekin St.

1631 Choctaw St.

1579 Grizzly Mountain Dr.

733 San Bernardino Av.

1781 Delaware St.

1200 San Diego St.

2297 Chiapa Dr.

Kirkwood Meadows

1120 Kirkwood Meadows Dr.

1511 Kirkwood Meadows #220

1360 Kirkwood Meadows Dr.

1400 Kirkwood Meadows Dr.

1200 Kirkwood Meadows Dr.

1215 Kirkwood Meadows Dr.

33877 Hawkweed Dr.

Want more Lake Tahoe real estate listings customised for your specific criteria? Click here.

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

Warning for Expert Skiers and Riders for ’11-’12 Winter Season

wjohnson — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:04:54 +0000

Listing at 1696 Sherman Wy.

As a courtesy to all expert skiers and riders for the 2011-12 winter season, I want to warn everyone about this last season and why you really shouldn’t come to the South Shore. It’s better to stay on the North side of the lake since that’s really where all the expert terrain is located.

During my morning hike this morning up Heavenly’s flat, intermediate Roundabout trail, today’s beautiful summer like day gave me a chance to reflect on the winter season that just ended at the Lake Tahoe Basin’s mountain resorts.

East Bowl

Sure, as most everyone knows by now, the entire Lake Tahoe area had a very good snow fall year with record amounts. As long as you know where to go, there were plenty of powder days, even great ones days after a storm. It seemed like even at Lake level we had mostly snow all season instead of the rain that we can get at that low elevation. There was at least six feet on the ground at my house at lake level.

Looking Down Gunbarrel

Howerver, this morning’s hike, without the snow coverage, really gave me a chance to see why like most mountain resorts on the South Shore, Heavenly is not, I repeat, not for expert skiers and riders. Heavenly is, just like all the rumours, an intermediate, flat mountain.

You can tell by these pictures what I’m talking about. Taken from the Roundabout trail at Heavenly, looking up at runs like East Bowl and Gunbarrel, these pics prove without a doubt that almost all their runs are just plain flat.

Plus look at the pics that show Heavenly’s tree skiing. Most of the trees are way too tight for thrilling, heart pounding excitement, and when they do open up, they’re spaced way too wide. It’s also obvious that since there are so many stumps and boulders on the terrain that it would take a lot of snow for waist deep powder day, which I’ve rarely had in my over 30 years of skiing Heavenly.

Too Wide Open, Flat

Yeh, Heavenly has the two canyons Motts and Killebrew marked on their trail map as Expert. But they’re way over on the Nevada side and take forever to get to on mulitple lifts and long cat tracks. Plus there’s a long, long trail at the bottom of Killebrew to get back to the lift…who needs that headache?

Oh, and sure now Heavenly’s management has opened designated gates to access the resort’s out-of-bounds expert terrain. Designated gates are just lame, right? Plus most people just get lost in this terrain and then have to spend thousands of dollars for helicopter rescue, so most experts I know don’t even bother.

Of course, if you want to really take risks, you can ride from the top of Milky Way Bowl and then eventually down to Foothill Drive for a 5,000 verticle run. But that’s a real hassle with having to do a car shuttle or thumb a ride, so no one I know wants that kind of hassle or risk.

So please, do yourself a favor next winter season and stay away from South Lake Tahoe’s mountain resorts. Most respectable expert skiers or riders I know go to Mammoth or Lake Tahoe’s North Shore resorts.

Sherman Winter 2011

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

One-of-a-Kind Properties

wjohnson — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 20:04:09 +0000

3779 Beach Rd., Tahoe Meadows

Every so ofter in the Lake Tahoe real estate market, a small number of very special, one-of-a-kind properties come on the market. Many times such as now, these kinds of properties are at the higher end of the price spectrum, highlighted by beautiful settings, custome construction, and spectacular views. Here’s the current list on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas: (even by some of the street names you can tell these are unique properties)

Complete list of One-of-a-Kind Properties in the entire Lake Tahoe real estate market

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

Who Wants Newly Constructed Real Estate?

wjohnson — Mon, 23 May 2011 16:59:47 +0000

1863 Crystal Air Built in 2009

An initial consultation with your real estate agent should include many questions to determine what you’re looking for in Lake Tahoe real estate.

These questions will include, not limited to, the following:

* What style of house would you prefer? Contemporary? Tahoe cabin?
* Which neighborhood?
* Is a garage or carport important to you? (many properties in Lake Tahoe do not have them)
* How important is having a nice view, such as mounains or lake view, from the property?
* Would you prefer to be close to town and shopping or find a property with more seclusion perhaps in the
county?
* What kind of floor plan?
* Low maintenance yard or landscaped, one with lawn?
* Does the yard need to be fenced, possibly for pets?

The best question that any agent can ask about Lake Tahoe real estate may go something like this:

* Imagine we’re standing at the house and property that is the perfect Lake Tahoe real estate for you?
Describe to me, in as much detail as you can, what it looks like.

Here are some links to help gather more information when it comes to what can be done with Lake Tahoe real estate:

* trpa.org…Tahoe Regional Planning Agency

* tahoechamber.org…South Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce

* el-dorado.ca.us…County of El Dorado

Many people tell me that they would prefer to have a newer constructed home with priorities such as all of today’s modern, energy efficient appliances, 30 year minimum composite roof, and possibly hard wood floors.

Following is a selected list of current real estate listings in South Lake Tahoe of newer constucted homes since 2008 in various neighborhoods:

Complete list of newer constructed homes in all of the Lake Tahoe Basin

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

Why Do People Own Real Estate in Lake Tahoe?

wjohnson — Mon, 09 May 2011 17:36:46 +0000

Almost everyone who owns a home in the Lake Tahoe Basin, has mentioned that along with the spectacular beauty of our area, the main reason they purchased their property here is for the active, outdoor lifestyle.

Just imagine, skiing, golfing, fishing, commensed with a beautiful, relaxing sunset picinic…all of this in the same day!! Not many other places on the planet has so much to offer.

Really enjoying life to the fullest, with friends and family…isn’t that what life’s all about?

Right now on May 9th, the snow at Lake Level has just about disappeared and the temperatures are rising. Time to get out the mountain bike, golf clubs, and get the boat out of storage and tuned up…however, Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley mountain resorts are still open for skiing and riding. Edgewood Golf Course opened for the season last week.

What are your outdoor passions? Maybe one of these below?

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

How To Value Real Estate Like an Appraiser

wjohnson — Fri, 06 May 2011 22:06:05 +0000

1863 Crystal Air Dr.

Perhaps the most important question people are faced with when considering a real estate purchase is: “What ‘s this house worth…what’s it’s current value in today’s market?”

Since many people like to do some research on their own before meeting with a REALTOR®, one way to calculate a property’s value is to do it like a real estate appraiser.

A professional real estate appraiser helps establish the current market value of a property for the purpose of establishing a loan so the lender knows that the property will sell for at least the amount of money it is lending.

However, let’s not cofuse an Appraiser’s report with a Comparible Market Analysis, CMA, used by most experienced real estate agents. A CMA has some of the same similarities of an Appraiser’s report, however, the Appraiser’s report is much more detailed and is the only report a lending institution will consider when looking at approving a loan.

So here are some suggestions on how to value Lake Tahoe real estate like a professional appraiser:

Become very familiar with the neighborhood where the property is located and the neighborhoods location within the Lake Tahoe Basin…see Neighborhoods
Find and compare similar properties, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, etc. that have sold in the last 6months…having 6properties to compare is a good number
Make sure the comparable properties have the same similarities as above, plus age of home and whether it’s been updated or remodeled, obviously you’re looking to compare apples to apples as close as possible
Check Lake Tahoe area real estate tax records vs. listing of property for recorded information such as above plus square footage of house, last sale, and more
Check to see what kind of a listing is the subject property and comparibles you’re considering: are they a regular sale, short sale, or bank owned
Develop a spread sheet or request one used by real estate professionals

Remember, information is power!!

Who Else Wants to Find a Home for Their Dog?

wjohnson — Mon, 02 May 2011 23:20:00 +0000

“Man’s best friend”…that’s what most dog owners would refer to their beloved family pet. Why? Because you know you can count on your fido for unconditional love, and devotion no matter what, and that’s very special.

Dogs never question our shortcomings and are great companions. They posses a loyalty that is unwavering.

These reasons, along with the fact that just as humans dogs are very social animals, may be why dogs have such a long history with the human race. No one knows for sure when dogs were domesticated, however, many cultures started treating their dogs like family members about 14,000 years ago. Some graves around the world have even been discovered with dogs in the same grave as humans.

There’s nothing like coming home from a rough day of work and being greeted immediately by our tail-wagging, face-licking, four legged friend…what a great way to relieve stress and put a smile on your we face!

It’s because of these reasons and the loyalty with the family pooch, that many people who are dog owners, when looking to buy a home in Lake Tahoe, specifically ask for property that will fit their dog’s special needs…fenced yard, privacy, and a specific setting like being near walking trails or a meadow.

For many subjects related to dog ownership, go to: mydogsspace.com.

For South Lake Tahoe dog park, go to: http://www.recreationintahoe.com/outdoor_recreation/bijou_dog_park

For other Lake Tahoe dog friendly info., go to: dogfriendlytahoe.com

The following real estate properties, listed as of 5.2.11, on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe fit the above criteria when looking for that special property for your best friend:

Get more listings for dog owners

As we all know some dogs even have a great time while they’re working:

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

Heavenly Mountain Resort Vicinity

wjohnson — Sun, 01 May 2011 18:35:56 +0000

Spectacular Views

Heavenly Mountain Resort Vicinity

In the vicinity of Heavenly Mountain Resort, skiheavenly.com, is the place to own Lake Tahoe real estate, especially if you’ve ever dreamed of being less than 10 minutes from one of the best snow resorts in the world and its 31 lifts. Check google.com\map.

As you travel up Ski Run Blvd. from Lake Tahoe Blvd., or Hwy. 50, and pass Pioneer Trail, on your way to the California Base lodge at Heavenly, you’ll find a wide range of property choices from condos and townhouses, small cabins perfect for romantic getaways, to new mountain and lake view homes with large lots.

There’s also a private community called Tahoe Tyrol off of Keller Rd. just down the road from the ski resort and the Tram. These homes are Tyrolean chalet style homes with a homeowners association which offers amenities such as an outdoor pool, jacuzzi and sauna, and a clubhouse.

Depending on the location of some of these properties, if you know the secret and have the skills, you can ski or ride in the winter from the resort, right to your very own mountain retreat…imagine that… how cool would that be?

Gunbarrel Run from Sherman Av. Property

Lakeview from Lucinda Property

Of course there’s more to living in Lake Tahoe than winter and snow sports, so the location of these properties gives you quick access to the beach at the end of Ski Run Blvd. in the warm months. Here you’ll find restaurants, beach activities, boat rentals, spectacular sunsets, and the home of the Tahoe Queen paddle wheel boat.

Plus the Stateline area with 24hr. nightlife and entertainment at the casinos is very close.

Current Heavenly Vicinity single family listings as of 5.1.11:

Get more Heavenly Mountain Resort Vicinity information.

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

LAKE TAHOE REAL ESTATE: BIJOU NEIGHBORHOOD

wjohnson — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 17:38:24 +0000

BIJOU

Bijou Golf Course

Right in the middle of Lake Tahoe’s South Shore, within 10 minutes driving time to Heavenly Mountain Resort, is a community called Bijou or Bijou Pines as it’s known to some.

In addition to the municipal golf course pictured above, Bijou Community Park is South Lake Tahoe’s only true community park. The park has diverse recreation opportunities including disc golf courses, a skateboard park, volleyball courts, dog park, and more. Go to: recreationintahoe.com.

You’ll also find the South Lake Tahoe Recreation Complex with a year round swimming pool for locals as well as visiting tourists.

The Bijou area also has its own Safeway Super Market, many restaurants and bars, Timber Cove Beach & Marina, plus shopping
opportunities for the whole family.

Timber Cove Beach

Timber Cove Marina & Pier

Houses in the Bijou area tend to be a little older; however, it’s obvious by the curb appearance, that homeowners take great care and pride in their properties. Many of the older homes have been remodeled, many have not. There are some new construction homes as well. Numerous properties in Bijou have great settings: on a lush meadow with spectacular mountain views.

Current Bijou single family listings as of 4.30.11:

Get more Bijou information

Wally Johnson
DRE #01848595
cell: 530.277.5687
fax: 530.725.8643
Wally@WallyKJohnson.com
LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com
3045 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150

1863 CRYSTAL AIR DR

wjohnson — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:04:18 +0000

[[Show as slideshow]]

BIG price reduction of $55,000, now listed at $490,000…BIG views, small price.

This property, move-in ready, is one everyone constantly asks for, but rarely comes on the market. You’ll find a fabulous, sunny, south-facing setting with stunning mountain views, and many custom built features, such as hickory cabinets and flooring, granite slab counters, large master bedroom and bath, over-size garage, and rv parking. Extra, large storage is in the attic. There’s even a formal dining room. You’ll enjoy the extra large, fenced lot, but with low maintenance. South-facing decks & patio wired for Hot tub. Spectacular, unobstructed mountain views from kitchen, living room, and master bedroom. Low maintenance vinyl siding, many green features including green insulation, high efficiency furnance and low e windows, on demand H20 heater.

Imagine enjoying the back deck, bar-b-qing your favorite meal, relaxing in the sun with breathtaking unobstructed mountain views, and remarkable star-gazing at night…how wonderful!

Overall this property is very special and solidly built in 2009 with 1,700 square feet. In addition to gorgeous mountain views, the low maintenance, 14,000 plus square foot lot is all natural and completely fenced with beautiful, solidly made wrought iron. BMPs, Best Management Practices, are certified and on file.

The propertie’s location, just 10 minutes drive to Stateline, off Pioneer Trail and Elks Club Drive, is secluded yet very close to downtown South Lake Tahoe. Downtown Meyers, with shopping at the local’s favorite, Lira’s Market, is even closer. Heavenly Mountain Resort is also just a 10 minutes drive and Sierra-at-Tahoe is just 20 minutes. The beaches down Hwy. 89, on the way to Emerad Bay are also less than a 15 minute drive.

This special property is Lake Tahoe real estate at it’s best! This custom home would be an excellent full time residence, vacation home, or rental.

crystal air open house

Wally Johnson

DRE #01848595

cell: 530.277.5687

fax: 530.725.8643

Wally@WallyKJohnson.com

LakeTahoeBasinHomes.com

3045 Harrison Ave.

South Lake Tahoe, Ca.
96150

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