Sherman Oaks Homes | Ewing & Associates

Million Tree Initiative

By: Sandy Finkel

It’s well known that planting trees remains one of the most ecologically and cost efficient methods to reduce CO2 pollution. Trees prevent topsoil run-off and studies have shown that an increase in tree lined streets could lower the number of children suffering from asthma. Undoubtedly, there are a myriad of benefits to planting trees.

In light of the obvious perks, Mayor Villaraigosa started the Million Trees initiative several years ago. The plan hopes to turn Los Angeles into an urban forest by planting one million trees over the course of several years. With an emphasis on sustainability, local city departments are planting native and drought resistant plants on public property.

Due to the buzz, the city of Los Angeles is offering some incentive to plant more trees. If you are a resident in Los Angeles, you may qualify for up to 7 free trees to plant on your property. Planting trees can provide enough shade to reduce air conditioning use by 20% Not only that, but it beautifies our property. To find out how to get your free trees or to find out more about the Million Trees LA Initiative log onto www.milliontreesla.org

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Home buyers looking for something different

By: Cynthia Sparagna

Urban planners are saying that recent demographic changes are effecting the way home buyers purchase. Instead of looking for bigger lots, newer homes, or more amenities, buyers are looking to purchase homes that are closer to coffee shops, restaurants and grocery stores. Such was the case with Jennifer and Andrew Greenberg who recently bought a house in Portland, Oregon. They purchased a 1950′s ranch home that needed some updates but is close coffee shops and wooded paths.

Home buyers interested in finding homes in walkable communities are using websites such as WalkScore.com. The site allows users to enter an address and receive a score ranging from zero to 100 (“car dependent” to “walkers paradise”) indicating the walkability of the community. A recent study by a non profit company called CEO’s for cities found that houses located within walking distance to amenities raised values by as much as $3,000 per point.