Christmas night is alight at Palermo

A walk around Palermo on Christmas night is lit up by the festive decorations. Miss Penny Lane says: She thinks her Palermo neighbors are a gift.

Twelfth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the twelfth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me twelve Cosmos, eleven Aerial Tramway passes, ten windmills a turning, nine Melody Laners dancing, eight crickets a chirping, seven snowbirds a swimming, six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: Raise your glass!

Merry Christmas, Palermo Palm Springs

Merry Christmas to all at Palermo and those who can't be here this holiday too. Miss Penny Lane says: She's wrapped up in love for Palermo.

'Shiny Point Trail' sparkles for Christmas

Sandy Point Trail is alive with lights for the holidays. Miss Penny Lane says: She'll soon be on the trail of some after-holiday bargains.

Eleventh day of a Palermo Christmas

On the eleventh day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me eleven Aerial Tramway passes, ten windmills a turning, nine Melody Laners dancing, eight crickets a chirping, seven snowbirds a swimming, six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She's going to the mountaintop.

Tenth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the tenth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me ten windmills a turning, nine Melody Laners dancing, eight crickets a chirping, seven snowbirds a swimming, six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She's peeking at the presents under her tree.

Ninth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the ninth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me nine Melody Laners dancing, eight crickets a chirping, seven snowbirds a swimming, six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She's settling in for the night with a holiday-flavored Cosmo and sugar cookie (or two ...).

Eighth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the eighth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me eight crickets a chirping, seven snowbirds a swimming, six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She's on holiday!

Seventh day of a Palermo Christmas

On the seventh day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me seven snowbirds a swimming, six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She'll living in the spa this holiday week off.

Sixth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the sixth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me six ducks a crossing, five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She ducking out of work early these days to get in some shopping.

Fifth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the fifth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me five golden HOA board members, four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: Palermo has a special ring to it.

Fourth day of a Palermo Christmas

On the fourth day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me four pools and spas a calling, three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She might spend Christmas morning frolicking in the pool, so wave hello when you see her

Third day of a Palermo Christmas

On the third day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me three yellow lantanas, two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: She's dreaming of sun-drenched Christmas.

Second day of a Palermo Christmas

On the second day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me two desert doves, and a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: Let the shopping begin.

12 days of a Palermo Christmas

On the first day of a Palermo Christmas, my true love gave to me a roadrunner in a palm tree. Miss Penny Lane says: Let the season begin.

Sandy Point sidewalk dressed in holiday style

More holiday cheer lining a sidewalk on Sandy Point Trail at Palermo Palm Springs. She's in the spirit for some spirits tonight with the return of the sunshine.

More lights!

More lights at Palermo, ready for the season. Miss Penny Lane says: She's ready for a weekend of holiday shopping.

Holiday lights at Palermo

The holiday decorating at Palermo Palm Springs has started with about a dozen homes with lights up and more with wreaths. This is a lively house on The Quiet Side. Miss Penny Lane says: She lights up whenever she's at Palermo.

Button up, Palermo

Crisp weather but the pool and spa beckon at Palermo. Miss Penny Lane says: She's comfy in her new Palermo-colored scarf.

Happy Thanksgiving, Palermo

May you have a happy Thanksgiving Day at Palermo, or safe travels. Miss Penny Lane says: She's already stuffed.

Palms are added to the landscaping of the back pool

Palermo's second community swimming pool received an upgrade with the addition of three new Mexican fan palms — an expected early Christmas present. There now are nine such trees at this pool. The clubhouse pool has about 25 or 30 palms, all added this month as well. A poster here said they consider these new trees the symbol of Palermo's rebirth. Miss Penny Lane says: She's a fanatic of Palermo.

Open letter from an owner: 'Grand entryway' to Palermo's future

Positively Palermo received this e-mail: "Ms. Penny Lane. Thank you for your informative site. Could you post this as an Open Letter to the community? The letter - We were one of the first at Palermo and purchased our condo during the frenzied times, paid top dollar, in addition to $50,000 in developer upgrades. Those go-go-go days were so fun here at Palermo with new people moving in and a shared sense of wonderment of this special design and feel - like no where else for us. Yet shortly afterward even back then things happened like a $100 increase in dues in a single year. Later on we had dues increase of $25 or $30 per year, and we thought by 2013/2014 that the Palermo dues would be well over $500 per month. Palermo became a love-hate thing for us because we were not just underwater, we were in deep deep water, and we felt helpless and walking away was and is not an option for us. We felt in the dark oftentimes and we live away from PS and your Site was a godsend to us and it is still. But I guess my point is that, and what I want to get out and share to fellow owners, is we have become changed in thought; we are still underwater, but that Palermo is not a burden to us and we see it again as a long-term option and investment and future full-time home for us. The changes we have seen in the management have been fantastic and the dues staying another third year at $294 a month is such a relief. The new paint, trees, plants, and bank sale of the Enterprise places and the better bottom line are just great in our book and sort of unbelievable for the days of the crash. Our home just 2 years ago would sell for 1/3 of what we paid for it and now it is valued at 2/3s. Something is working at Palermo!  We have agents trying to get us to sell! Lastly, we too love the grand entryway of palms you published." Miss Penny Lane: She's in a colorful mood too despite the gray skies.

Grove of palms pop up at pool!

Palermo-ites came home from work tonight to a surreal scene of an instant, pop-up grove of Mexican fan palms at the community swimming pool that was not there this morning. How did this happen? Miss Penny Lane says: She thinks the grove is groovy.

Re-painted homes along Indian Canyon Drive

Sharp shot of the re-painted Palermo along Indian Canyon. It looks like the painters are moving down Melody Lane's west side. We also received an e-mail report of fresh "cover dirt" being spread where plants went in last week. We hope to get a picture soon of the new pool-side palms before they are untied. Miss Penny Lane says: She's on the move like her Palermo is these days.

Another picture of the clubhouse re-painted.

A picture of the side of the re-painted Palermo Palm Springs clubhouse. Miss Penny Lane says: She's enjoying her long weekend by soaking up some color herself.

Re-painting continues

Thanks to the Palermo-ite who sent us this picture of the re-painting that is going on. Miss Penny Lane says: She's ready for a colorful weekend.

New palm trees at the pool?

These palms were ripped out from Palermo front yards four years ago, to the concern of many Palermo residents of that time, and laid in the dirt to be taken away. Today, perhaps indicating the full circle of change, Palermo residents came home to see new palms popping up at the community pool. Please send pictures if you them of the new trees. Miss Penny Lane says: She's a fan.

Go vote, Palermo

It is Election Day in the city of Palm Springs. Palermo-ites vote at the community center a few blocks away across Indian Canyon Drive. Miss Penny Lane says: She's electing to start her day itch an extra large coffee.

Sleep in, Palermo

Did you turn your clocks back? Miss Penny Lane says: She's up and ready for the day.

Clubhouse re-paint

A Palermo resident sent us this picture of the Palermo clubhouse that is being re-painted. Please send any more along that you might have. Miss Penny Lane says: She's enjoying a bright day at Palermo.

Happy Halloween to Palermo

A Happy Halloween to Palermo from Positively Palermo. Miss Penny Lane says: She's in the mood for treats.

Photo of the re-painting of the Palermo community

Positively Palermo was asked to post a picture of the paint job going at Palermo. This one was taken a few days ago by the old Enterprise models, looking from the rear gate out. Miss Penny Lane says: She's begun her re-do too.

Market building has rental sign up

A new leasing sign has gone up at the site of the former Julian's Market. We update if we see movement over there. Miss Penny Lane says: She votes for a Starbucks.

Palermo HOA dues will stay the same for three years in a row

Breaking news: Positively Palermo now has the e-mail that indicates that the Palermo HOA monthly due will stay at the $294 level by the board's action. By our calculation, the dues were last hiked up in late 2011 to start in the next year. Dues were not increased for 2013 so this will mean no increase from January 2012, through 2013, and through December of 2014. With dues increasing at over 25 bucks a pop before this three-year period, the Palermo dues could have been approaching $400 per month by now, driving some for their homes. Interestingly, the e-mail suggests that the Palermo reserves have tripled over these two years. Miss Penny Lane says: Her make-up fund won't have to be raided in 2014, so she is happy but she'd gladly reduce her cosmetics bills for Palermo.

Palermo to get re-painted

BREAKING NEWS: Signs have gone up in the community saying that Palermo's residences will be getting a fresh coat of paint. This painting will start later in the month the signs say, and the signs direct you to a Web page of www.cprps.com for info about the progress of the painting. This news is breath-taking considering what the community has been through and what is means for the future. Miss Penny Lane says: She could use a facelift too.

Palermo original carpet types

Positively Palermo is continuing its look at upgrades or options available from the original developer. This is a picture of the carpet samples and names. Miss Penny Lane says: She likes Bashful.

Pools being emptied and cleaned

The annual emptying of the pool has begun at Palermo Palm Springs. Miss Penny Lane says: She's inspired and is getting out her scrubbing bubbles too.

Granite countertop options

Positively Palermo has been asked about the original Palermo upgrades and features available. Here is a sampling of the choices for granite countertops. We will show or discuss other options in the future. Miss Penny Lane says: She's rock solid in her love of Palermo.

3 years ago, Palermo was overflowing with homes for sale

What a different a few years makes. Positively Palermo looked into its archive and found this posting from September 2010 when Palermo was overflowing with distressed properties on the market. Three years later, only one home is up for sale, and it's not a distressed sale but a regular sale, at a price more than double the market lows. The 2010 posting read: "Here's a best guess of what's on the market based on for-sale signs in the windows or eviction/foreclosure-type notices posted on front doors. - 210 Enterprise. Two bedroom, two-floor D unit. 1,286 square feet. - 240 Enterprise. Two bedroom, two-story loft A-unit with a spa. 1,375 square feet. - 248 Sandy Point has a for-sale sign. Two bedroom, two-story loft A-unit. 1,375 square feet. - 258 Sandy Point has a for-sale sign. Two bedroom, two-story B-unit. 1,320 square feet. - 3587 Quiet Side. Two bedroom, single-level G-unit. 1131 square. feet - 3697 Quiet Side. Two bedroom, single-level G-unit. 1131 square feet. - 3586 Sunburst. Two bedroom, single-level G-unit. 1131 square feet. No sign but was listed online. - 3686 Sunburst. One bedroom, single-level E-unit. 831 square feet. (May have been sold recently.) - 3563 Penny Lane. Two bedroom, two-story C-unit with a spa. 1,275 square feet. - 272 Breeze Loop. Two bedroom, two-story loft A-unit. 1,375 square feet. - Also, word has it that a two bedroom, two-floor D unit, 1,286 square feet, on Melody Lane is in foreclosure with a bank auction." Miss Penny Lane says: She wishes aged as well as the timeless Palermo.

Murano rising!

The single-family subdivision of Murano Palm Springs, down the road from Palermo on San Rafael, is rising again with new construction. Murano was a sister development of the Palermo, originally built by the same company, the Enterprise Cos. of Chicago. Murano's undeveloped lots were sold to Far Western Industries after the bank took them over. Palermo's undeveloped lots were sold to another company. Miss Penny Lane says: She's up and rising and ready to take on the day, too.

Happy Labor Day, Palermo

Have a restful Labor Day holiday, and a peaceful drive back to your "other homes" for all the part-time residents here at Palermo for the long weekend. Miss Penny Lane says: Her biggest labor today will be refilling the pitcher of Cosmos.

Post card touts just-listed $299,900 listing

A resident has sent Positively Palermo post card that came in the mail advertising the $299,900 listing. Thanks! Miss Penny Lane says: She'll be shopping today for a new rain hat.

Owners give thumbs down to cars in shorter driveways

Positively Palermo has learned that efforts to allow parking cars in Palermo's shorter driveways (less than 22 feet in length) have not succeeded. In a question posed by the HOA management, Palermo owners voted down a change in the rules that would have made this kind of driveway parking allowable by altering the existing rules. We learned that the vote was not even close. Driveway parking has been an issue over the years. Another second — newer and one might think also less controversial — issue also was voted on negatively by the owners at Palermo. It concerned placing solar energy arrays on the rooftops of condos here, as the roofs are considered common assets. Miss Penny Lane says: She's driven and hot about her love for democracy.

Help your neighbor

Positively Palermo received this e-mail: "Penny, Please help and spread the word. A dog groomer named Red Rover mobile pet grooming has littered the place with biz cards and hung them on the doors at Palermo. Ask neighbors to take them off the homes where no one is there for the summer. How could these people do something like that???? Thx for your time and work for us here." Miss Penny Lane says: Done. She's a step ahead.

Palermo residence on market for $299,900

A Palermo Palm Springs two-bedroom condo is on the market for $299,900, another increase in the offered sales prices of non-distressed sales at Palermo and signaling the steady increase in property values at Palermo since mid-2011. The listing is here. One real estate agent who provide this info to us says it is possible for a bidding war may happen as it is non-distressed and below the "comps" for this type of offering in Palm Springs. Miss Penny Lane says: Palermo's time is now.

Soda/water vending machines in the clubhouse or pool area?

A Palermo resident asked that we pose this question: "Do you favor having a soda/water vending machine in the clubhouse and/or the pool area? Thanks." Miss Penny Lane says: She's more into an adult beverage to quench her thirst when taking a dip.

Vote on parking and solar is coming

Positively Palermo has learned that the homeowners association is holding a vote on allowing more types of parking in the driveways (which is presently restricted by the HOA rules to only certain driveways) and allowing solar energy panels on the roofs. Anyone who has more information or the ballot wording please send them along for posting here. Miss Penny Lane says: She's a lover of democracy.

A rainy morning at Palermo

The rain is falling at Palermo Palm Springs, again. Miss Penny Lane says: She's happy even though the morning walk was interrupted.

Ash ... and now the humidity

This from the morning paper: "Shifting winds Friday brought the Coachella Valley relief from the smell of smoke, but residents couldn’t escape the Salton Sea. Winds from the southeast blew the all-too-familiar Salton Sea stink people have gotten used to during summer over the valley’s cities. The winds also brought moisture, which caused humidity levels to spike. “We have a monsoon surge starting today,” Stephen Harrison, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in San Diego, said Friday. “It could last through the weekend.” Miss Penny Lane says: She'll been enjoying the confines inside her lovely Palermo pad today.

Fire update

Reports are that the fire has grown overnight and is threatening some mountain communities, but is far away from Palermo Palm Springs as of now. There's a patch of blue sky at Palermo. Miss Penny Lane says: Skies are blue just like Palermo's bright future.

On fire

Residents of Palermo Palm Springs will awake today to see their view of the mountains whited-out, fine ash in the air and to the smell of fire, with the fire at Mountain Center growing to 4,700 acres and very little containment. Miss Penny Lane says: She's hoping the winds up there die down.

A Palermo 4th is second to none

Happy Independence Day to Palermo Palm Springs. We have
much to be thankful for as a nation and as a community. Miss Penny Lane says: She's got her red, white and blue new swimming suit so say Hi to her at the pool today.

From Palm Springs, Happy Canada Day

Happy Canada Day to all the Canadian Palermo-ites. Miss Penny Lane says: It's good day, eh?

122 means it is hot hot hot

Palm Springs broke a record yesterday with 122. Another record expected today. But the pools at Palermo are refreshing, and busy. Miss Penny Lane says: Regardless of the temperatures, Palermo is always sizzling.

Be cool

Heat warnings are in effect across the West. Triple digits set for Palm Springs, with 134 degree in Death Valley and even 102 degrees in Idaho. Miss Penny Lane says: At Palermo, everyone is always cool.

Valley home price tags up 24 percent from last May

Good news on home prices in the morning newspaper: "The Coachella Valley’s median home price continued its upward trajectory in May, jumping 17.8 percent year-over-year to $257,500 and marking the 11th straight month of double-digit increases, a new report shows. The median price – half sold for more, half for less – has risen substantially from 2011 and early 2012, when it typically hovered around $165,000 to $170,000, San Diego-based real estate information provider DataQuick reported. Ann Ritchie, executive vice president of Palm Desert-based California Desert Association of Realtors, said one reason for the upward trend in valley home prices is the continued decline of short sales and bargain bank-owned properties, which have fallen off dramatically over the past few years. Distressed properties accounted for 15 percent of single-family and 10 percent of condo sales valley-wide in May, far below levels that approached 60 or 70 percent during some months at the height of the recession. “The average price of a home sold through the Desert Area Multiple Listing Service rose 24 percent in May over May 2012,” said Ritchie.Low inventories are contributing to higher prices, she said. “The average price of a condo rose 10 percent in that same time period.” Miss Penny Lane says: Hooray!

Palermo desirability Index - 61 to 87

Today we have the remaining two-bedroom condos on the Palermo Desirability Index, based on the "final release price" of the developer. The prices were based on intrinsic factors such as views, size of the back yards and privacy, not later upgrades such as back yard landscaping, outdoor fireplaces or improved bathroom tiles, etc. For more background on these original prices, please see our posting from earlier this month that goes in detail. Here is the list:

61. 3594 Penny Lane, Unit 101, D model, $400,000
61. 3586 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 188, G model, $400,000
61. 3587 Quiet Side St., Unit 190, G model, $400,000
64. 265 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 124, C model, $392,000
65. 262 Breeze Loop, Unit 127, C model, $392,000
66. 3543 Penny Lane, Unit 95, B model, $390,000
66. 3553 Penny Lane, Unit 96, B model, $390,000
66. 3563 Penny Lane, Unit 97, C model, $390,000
69. 268 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 143, B model $388,000
69. 278 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 144, C model, $388,000
71. 258 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 142, B model, $386,000
72. 3552 Melody Lane, Unit 87, B model, $385,000
73. 3551 Melody Lane, Unit 68, C model, $384,000
73. 3521 Melody Lane, Unit 69, A model, $384,000
73. 3571 Melody Lane, Unit 70, B model, $384,000
73. 3581 Melody Lane, Unit 71, B model, $384,000
73. 3631 Melody Lane, Unit 76, B model, $384,000
73. 3641 Melody Lane, Unit 77, B model, $384,000
73. 3651 Melody Lane, Unit 78, C model, $384,000
73. 232 Breeze Loop, Unit 131, B model, $384,000
73. 235 Sandy Point, Unit 132, C model, $384,000
73. 222 Breeze Loop, Unit 133, B model, $384,000
73. 225 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 134, C model, $383,000
84. 3572 Melody Lane, Unit 89, C model, $380,000
85. 3696 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 206, G model, $379,000
86. 3562 Melody Lane, Unit 88, B model, $377,000
86. 3582 Melody Lane, Unit 90, C model, $377,000
87. 218 Sandy Point, Unit 138, B model, $361,000
87. 228 Sandy Point, Unit 139, B model, $361,000

Miss Penny Lane says: As she's said before, every condo on the list is a gem to her.

Palermo Desirability Index - 41 to 60

Happy Friday morning, Palermo Palm Springs. Here is the next installment of Palermo Palm Springs Desirability Index, based on the original "final release price" of the developer. The prices were based on intrinsic factors such as views, size of the back yards and privacy, not later upgrades such as back yard landscaping, outdoor fireplaces or improved bathroom tiles, etc. For more background on these original prices, please see our posting from earlier this week. Here is the list:

41. 3575 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 117, B model, $420,000

42. 242 Breeze Loop, Unit 129, A model, $419,000

42. 212 Breeze Loop, Unit 135, A model, $419,000

44. 3535 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 113, C model, $416,000

44. 3545 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 114, C model, $416,000

46. 301 Breeze Loop, Unit 120 D model, $411,000

47. 3555 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 115, C model, $410,000

47. 3565 Sunburst Blvd., Unit 116, B model, $410,000

49. 3574 Penny Lane, Unit 103, C model, $408,000

49. 3564 Penny Lane, Unit 104, C model, $408,000

49. 3554 Penny Lane, Unit 105, B model, $408,000

49. 3554 Penny Lane, Unit 106, B model, $408,000

53. 3541 Melody Lane, Unit 67, D model, $406,000

53. 3601 Melody Lane, Unit 73, D model, $406,000

53. 311 Breeze Loop, Unit 119, D model, $406,000

53. 3697 Quiet Side St., Unit 211, G model, $406,000

57. 3584 Penny Lane, Unit 102, C model, $403,000

57. 208 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 137, A model, $403,000

57. 238 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 140, A model, $403,000

60. 3611 Melody Lane, Unit 74, D model, $402,000

Miss Penny Lane says: With this addition, we're half way through the list, and she finds every unit on it to be a gem.

Palermo Desirability Index - 21 to 40

After publishing the top 20 from the developer's price list, we have been asked to publish the rest. Here is the second top 20 in Palermo Palm Springs Desirability Index, based on the original "final release price" of the developer. The prices were based on intrinsic factors such as views, size of the back yards and privacy, not later upgrades such as back yard landscaping, outdoor fireplaces or improved bathroom tiles, etc. According to our research, though, it does appear that the units at the top of the index have had more upgrades as the original buyers, who paid more for their units also sprang for more upgrades. For example, a big percentage of the private pools, spools and spas that were put in at Palermo were installed in the units near the top of the index. Conversely, original buyers who wanted a lower price didn't shell out as often for the upgrades offered by the builder. Those owners here at the beginning may remember that in those pre-construction days that the sales team in the trailer were aiming for at least $20,000 in upgrades per unit. (For more background on these original prices, please see our posting from earlier this week.) Here is the list:

21. 241 Breeze Loop, Unit 99, A model, $450,000
21. 231 Breeze Loop, Unit 100, A model, $450,000
23. 3548 Foothill Ave., Unit 178, G model, $446,000
24. 230 Enterprise Way, Unit 92, A model, $443,000
24. 240 Enterprise Way, Unit 93, A model, $443,000
24. 3533 Penny Lane, Unit 94, A model, $443,000
24. 3573 Penny Lane, Unit 98, A model, $443,000
28. 288 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 145, A model, $439,000
29. 3522 Melody Lane, Unit 84, D model, $436,000
29. 3592 Melody Lane, Unit 91, D model, $436,000
29. 3558 Quiet Side St., Unit 179, G model, $436,000
32. 3521 Melody Lane, Unit 65, A model, $435,000
32. 3531 Melody Lane, Unit 66, A model, $435,000
32. 3671 Melody Lane, Unit 80, A model, $435,000
32. 3681 Melody Lane, Unit 81, A model, $435,000
32. 3621 Melody Lane, Unit 75, A model, $431,000
37. 3661 Melody Lane, Unit 79, A model, $431,000
37. 3532 Melody Lane, Unit 85, D model, $431,000
39. 3542 Melody Lane, Unit 86, A model, $429,000
40. 248 Sandy Point Trail, Unit 141, A model, $423,000

Miss Penny Lane says: She loves the top 40.

Penny Lane view

A classic view from Penny Lane (the street, that is). Miss Penny Lane says: She views Palermo as the best place to be.

Palermo Desirability Index

Positively Palermo has received some more e-mails asking that we discuss home sales and prices, so we thought we would repost this from two years ago ... Palermo Palm Springs has 117 residences. First, let’s examine the seven model types. There are four model types (A, B, C, and D) with two-bedrooms and two stories. There is one model (G) with two bedrooms in a single level. The developer generally priced the two-bedroom models in this order: A unit had highest price, D unit had the second, B and C tied for third, and then the G unit. There also are two models (E and F) with one bedroom in a single level. The F unit is bigger than the E unit. 

However, the developer in the initial sales push didn’t treat all of the units of the same model type equally. That is, for example, the price of a D unit could vary from another D unit, depending on location, views, yard size, privacy and other factors. Below, we have listed the top most desirable units based on the original “final unit release price” furnished to us. Please note that these prices may not have been what the units eventually sold for — but the list serves as a guide to the residences considered to be premium ones. We’re highlighting these "top 20" to show that the appraisers and banks are being short-sighted when selling individual units at prices that don't take into account distinguishing factors. All of Palermo's 117 units, not just these 20, should be evaluated individually by appraisers, and then the prices for all of us should go up. (Also, please note  “final unit release price” on these 20 units below and the other 97 units do not include pools or spas they were added.)

1. 260 Enterprise Way, A unit, $481,000

1. 270 Enterprise Way, A unit, $481,000

1. 3534 Penny Lane, A unit, $481,000

4. 250 Enterprise Way, A unit, $480,000

5. 3585 Sunburst Blvd., A unit, $477,000

6. 302 Breeze Loop, A unit, $473,000

6. 210 Enterprise Way, D unit, $473,000

8. 280 Enterprise Way, A unit $470,000

8. 318 Sandy Point Trail, A unit, $470,000

10. 312 Breeze Loop, A unit, $468,000

11. 3525 Sunburst Blvd., D unit, $466,000

12. 308 Sandy Point Trail, A unit, $463,000

13. 220 Enterprise Way, D unit, $463,000

14. 272 Breeze Loop, A unit, $461,000

14. 3591 Melody Lane, A unit, $461,000

14. 255 Sandy Point Trail, A unit, $461,000

17. 215 Sandy Point Trail, D unit, $460,000

18. 252 Breeze Loop, D unit, $456,000

18. 245 Sandy Point Trail, A unit, $456,000

18. 275 Sandy Point Trail, D unit, $456,000

For comparison sake, some A and D units not considered prime units had original “final release prices” that were $50,000 to $75,000 below the premium locations. Most of the B and C units had “final release pricing” in the mid to high $300,000s as they shared more common walls, weren’t on corners, and had smaller back yards. They were a few exceptions in the low $400,000s. The developer initially pre-sold a large number of Palermo residences with many of the prime units now in private hands. The developer apparently instituted more uniform model pricing as the economic downfall hit and as its unit inventory went down to 34 unsold residences. Miss Penny Lane says: She loves them all.

Avalon picture

A picture from the Avalon development. Miss Penny Lane says: Sometimes she feels like this.

Trash can blues

Positively Palermo received this e-mail request: "Miss Penny Lane, Thank you for your work for Palermo! But please tell people that the garbage trucks only take recyclables on Thursdays. My neighbor of years still can't get it right!" Miss Penny Lane says: She's glad that's the only thing to be blue about at Palermo.

It's trash day!

Reminder that trash and recycling pick-up day is today (Friday), delayed one day because of the Monday Memorial Day holiday. Miss Penny Lane says: With an empty recycling can, she's ready to fill it up with the cast-offs from her weekend party.

Gate codes (again)

Positively Palermo received this e-mail: "Hello from San Francisco. We had talked awhile back regarding the front gate access code being changed, and now checking to see if the access code for the front gate was changed.We will be coming down soon and want to make sure we can get in." Any answers? Miss Penny Lane says: She's trying to decode the directions on her homemade permanent bottle.

Avalon map

This is an illustration of the proposed Avalon residential and golf course development map, next to Palermo Palm Springs. Miss Penny Lane says: She's mapping out her weekend.

Another view of the Avalon entrance

A view of the Avalon entrance/guard building sent to Positively Palermo. Miss Penny Lane says: She just might go exploring there this week while the temps are cool.

Avalon pictures: Entrance building

Positively Palermo has received some pictures of the Avalon development as it appears today. We will publish them over the next days. Miss Penny Lane says: She's enjoying the cooler weather with a cup of coffee in the yard.

Avalon's gateway

This is a drawing of the proposed gateway to Avalon, next to Palermo Palm Springs. Miss Penny Lane says: She's ready for her weekend.

Avalon's proposed clubhouse

Here is an image of the Avalon residential and golf course development that was proposed and approved to border Palermo Palm Springs. The illustration is of the clubhouse. Miss Penny Lane says: She's shopping for new golf gear.

What about Avalon?

Positively Palermo has been asked about the Avalon project boarding Palermo Palm Springs. Here are the details of what was planned: The proposed Avalon residential and golf course development would border the north and west perimeter of Palermo Palm Springs. The Suncal company development had formerly been called Palm Springs Village. Avalon streets have already been constructed and palm trees and other landscaping put in. In all, the subdivision would have 1,239 single-family lots and multi-family lots, a golf course, clubhouse, pool, spa, tennis courts and a park, all on 309 acres. The multi-family units would be more in the interior of the development and were planned for a later phase. All the residences bordering Palermo would be single-family homes, on lots of about 5,000 to 7,000 square feet. Most of the lots would be 50 wide and 100-135 feet long. You can see the layout of the homes near Palermo on the maps below. The single-family lots are in yellow in the first map. About two dozen homes would directly border Palermo's Phase 1 and Phase 2. It appears they would be single-level homes but the height is unknown. Notably, for at least 100 feet, there would be no homes built on the other side of the southern Avalon wall that is near Palermo's intersection of Melody Lane and Sandy Point Trail. The developer had asked the city for time extensions and then ran in more financial problems. There's no word on its current status. We will publish more in the coming days. Miss Penny Lane says: She's ready to tee up!

A model condo on Enterprise listed as a short sale at $220K

An A model unit on Enterprise Way has been listed on the Desert MLS as a short sale at $220,000. The listing says they are taking back-up offers. The listing says: "Home to some of the very best mountain views in Palermo---or anywhere for that matter! This large 2 bedroom home features designer style, ample upgrades, and comfortable living at its best. Enjoy the private courtyard as well as the exclusive Palermo amenities, which include resort pool, state of the art fitness center and clubhouse. This short sale opportunity will not last so make sure you see it today!" The listing is here. Miss Penny Lane says: She's could be in the market for another one!

Wind and water

Elemental times at Palermo Palm Springs. The wind gusts that hit Palm Springs have died down, at least at early this morning. A water problem that created another a pond in the dirt by the models has been fixed. Miss Penny Lane says: She's starting the weekend early because today is her Friday.

Wind closes Indian Canyon Drive at Palermo

It hasn't happened in quite some time, but the city has closed North Indian Canyon Drive at from Palermo to the 10 because of the winds. Miss Penny Lane says: She's holding onto her hat.

Palm Springs squad on Sandy Point?

Positively Palermo received an e-mail of concern about the police appearance on Sandy Point Trail. Miss Penny Lane says: She hopes all is well

More on Murano

Positively Palermo received this e-mail with more information on the nearby Murano single-family home community, originally developed by the same company as Palermo Palm Springs: "Looks like Murano will be redeveloped in the fall by the company that is doing Luminaire on the south end of town. See the link: http://www.farwestindustries.com/communities/coming-soon.php - That is good for us." Miss Penny Lane says: Thanks!

Granite counter info

Positively Palermo received this e-mail: "Hi Ms. Penney, We saw a tile company van here the other day and it got us thinking about our neat counter tops, but we are thinking of adding some, so do you know anything about them?" Here are the original specifics from 2007. Miss Penny Lane says: She thinks life at Palermo is rock-solid these days.

More on Murano

Positively Palermo received this information in an email: "Looks like Murano will be redeveloped in the fall by the company that is doing Luminaire on the south end of town. See the link: http://www.farwestindustries.com/communities/coming-soon.php That is good for us." Thanks! Miss Penny Lane says: Far out.

Easter, and Palermo is hopping

Happy Easter to the residents and fans of Palermo Palm Springs, where rebirth has been in the air and this special community filled with good eggs. Miss Penny Lane says: She did her yearly morning stroll in her Easter bonnet this morning  — did you see her?

A bright White Party

A happy "White Party" to Palermo residents and visitors. Miss Penny Lane says: Her pearls are just right for this weekend.

Julian's Market building update

What is going on at the site of the former Julian's Market, 3395 North Indian Canyon Drive? The building has been repainted and spiffed up. The for-sale sign is down. According to our sources in the realty world, the property is owned by Greenlake Real Estate Fund LLC of Pasadena. They have applied to a remodel permit with the city is make some electrical and other changes to bring the building up to code. Nothing else is known. Miss Penny Lane says: She's in the market for a neighborhood coffee shop.

New heater at the big pool. Yay!

The front big pool heater was fixed (replaced to be exact) after breaking down and the Palermo pool is as busy as ever. Miss Penny Lane says: She's swimmed out after her vacation.

Clubhouse door problem

Positively Palermo has received a report of a problem with the clubhouse entry system, with the FOB cards not working at times. The problem may have been fixed at this point. Miss Penny Lane says: She's tanned, rested and ready for more postings after a little trip away last week.

A toast to Palermo on this St. Patrick's Day

Happy St. Patrick's Day to Palermo Palm Springs. Miss Penny Lane says: She thinks those not living at Palermo are green with envy.

At Murano, Far West Industries wipes away the last of the Enterprise Cos. signs

A new developer purchased the Enterprise Cos. of Chicago's property at Palermo Palm Springs last year. Now another company has bought Palermo's sister property, the Murano single-family home development, down the road on San Raphael Drive. Some homes have been built, but vacant lots also remain. Now new signs are covering up the last vestiges of the Enterprise/Shipka empire in the valley at Murano. The new signs touts new homes on big lots. Miss Penny Lane says: Far out.