It’s a Lifestyle
Living in the South Bay - September 2026
Here’s your copy for LIVING in the South Bay - September 2026
This is my favorite time of year when the days are still long but Earth begins to tilt and the light begins to shift. I just love it when school starts and the calendar fills up with family events and holiday plan. What are you going to be for Halloween? Where are you spending Thanksgiving? Will you be home for Christmas? Lots of memories ahead…
The top story is Retro Reload in Lomita. I have had so many comments about my post about the Retro Reload location being for sale. This is obviously a beloved store with a fiercely loyal clientele and I just want to dispel any rumors. Retro Reload is still open and in fact preparing their inventory for Halloween. Retro Reload carries high end vintage couture, fun flashy flair, and everyday fashion so if you have not shopped out Retro Reload in Lomita then you are truly missing out. They currently have their building on the market for sale so if you are an investor or are looking to invest in Downtown Lomita, do reach out. Retro Reload will move locations if the building sells but they are not going out of business.
PV Stables is beautiful, but it did not get a facelift. But you know what has had a facelift, Kelly’s Sandwiches in Rolling Hills Estates. Have you been to the new Kelly’s Sandwiches? It’s fantastic, great classic Americana deli with a country flair. I just love this spot and I try to introduce friends and people from outside the area to this off the beaten path gem. It’s been there for 30+ years and we hope it stays for 30 more with the new owner.
Now for the boring stuff, interest rates. These rates are a little dose of medicine for the economy. In the housing market in particular, we got ahead of our skis and these values are just so far out of reach for first time homebuyers now. The rates are working to slow down what has gotten away from us. So how do you get around the mortgage rates? Well there are ways. You can buy down the rate with a credit from the seller in escrow. You can increase your credit score, banks will give better rates to those with excellent credit. You can put more down and have a lower loan value. You can get an interest only loan. You can pay cash, then you have no loan. Depending on what your financials look like, there are ways to get that interest rate lower.
Best kids snacks for a family on the go?? Apples and cheese or apples and peanut butter provide sweetness, protein and quick calories for those kiddos. Smoothies with yogurt, fruit and nut butters give a quick boost and are easy to make and take with you. Bean and cheese tortillas can be make the night before, refrigerated and can be eaten on the fly. What are some snacks you like to make your kids? Share below!
This images was created using Runway AI.
24630 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, CA 90717
24630 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, CA 90717
Prime Downtown Lomita Retail Space - $1,200,000
Marketing description
Located in the heart of Downtown Lomita, this prime commercial property is situated on a highly visible lot with a spacious interior and features over 114 feet of frontage on Narbonne Avenue. The building is configured as two separate units, each with its own private entrance, restroom, and air conditioning, making it ideal for an owner-user, multiple tenants, or an investment opportunity. Currently the retail business uses both units in an open concept design. Additional highlights include seven on-site parking spaces, ADA-compliant restrooms, a new A/C unit serving the north side of the building, and a rear office with its own private entrance and plumbing for a hair salon. Downtown Commercial zoning, the property supports a wide variety of commercial uses and may offer the potential for second-story residential development, creating additional value and long-term investment potential (buyer to verify). With an estimated traffic count of over 800 vehicles per hour along Narbonne Avenue, the property benefits from outstanding exposure. Permits and planning have been approved for a new facade giving the property a fresh new look that will further enhance its curb appeal. Offered vacant at closing. For the complete financial profile, please see the offer memorandum.
Investment highlights
• Prime Downtown Lomita Location – Strategically located in the heart of Downtown Lomita with excellent visibility and strong frontage along Narbonne Avenue.
• High-Exposure Commercial Asset – Features over 114 feet of frontage and benefits from an estimated traffic count exceeding 700 vehicles per hour, providing exceptional signage and visibility opportunities.
• Flexible Two-Unit Configuration – Property is designed as two separate units, each with its own private entrance, restroom, and HVAC system, allowing for owner-user occupancy, multi-tenant leasing, or future repositioning.
• Owner-User & Investment Opportunity – Ideal for an owner-user seeking a prominent commercial location or an investor looking to acquire a versatile asset with multiple potential uses.
• Downtown Commercial Zoning – Zoning supports a wide range of commercial uses and may provide future upside through redevelopment opportunities, including potential second-story residential development (buyer to verify).
• Strong Parking & Accessibility – Includes seven on-site parking spaces and ADA-compliant restrooms, enhancing functionality for tenants, customers, and employees.
• Recent Capital Improvements – Features a newer HVAC unit serving the north side of the building, along with approved plans and permits for a new façade renovation designed to enhance curb appeal and marketability.
• Additional Specialty Use Potential – Rear office area includes a private entrance and existing plumbing infrastructure, offering flexibility for a salon or other service-oriented use.
• Vacant at Closing – Provides immediate flexibility for an owner-user, investor, or tenant repositioning strategy.
Listing Agent: Jessiqa Pace
Listing Broker: Compass
DRE# 02122433
(310) 986-9888
Jessiqa@thekondogroup.com
The Palos Verdes Landslide
Jessiqa Pace - Realtor in Palos Verdes
The Palos Verdes Peninsula is the most beautiful place in Los Angeles County, but parts of this region have been burdened by a land movement complex that has destroyed homes and left this community without electricity, gas and in some cases water forcing residents to evacuate. A few have chosen to stay despite the challenges of living in the modern world without the most basic comforts. In this video we explore the landslide community and hear from experts and residents of Portuguese Bend.
If you have any questions about this video or about living in Palos Verdes, give me a call.
Malibu Home for Sale
8400 Mipolomol Road, Malibu, California 90265
3 bedroom, 4 bath, 2900 sf home on 8 acres near Sycamore Canyon with views of Anacapa Island
Asking $2,450,000
Perched at 1,600 feet above sea level adjacent to Malibu’s serene Sycamore Canyon and the towering Sandstone Peak, this private estate offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and modern comfort. Technically located in unincorporated Ventura County, the property carries a Malibu zip code and embodies the peaceful, untamed spirit of the area.
Set on over 8 acres of stunning California landscape, this 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers 2900 square feet of living space, over 1000 square feet of garage space.
Stone pavers extend from the south entry in an extraordinary design that complements the surrounding landscape. This sanctuary is the perfect place to take in the views of Anacapa Island and the mountain peaks above.
The structure is built into excavated rock, with 12-inch concrete retaining walls and 10-foot ceilings making it both elegant and durable. Large windows and open living spaces invite in natural light and uninterrupted views of rugged peaks, native oak and sycamore trees, and an abundance of local wildlife. At night, the starry skies here are nothing short of breathtaking.
Enjoy all the comforts of home, including air conditioning, a utility room, a recreation room, an oversized garage with a store room, and a bonus space ideal for a wine cellar or home brewing, thanks to consistently moderate temperatures year-round. A water softener and reverse osmosis system are already in place for exceptional water quality.
Built for true independence, the property features an inexhaustible private well, propane, septic system, and auxiliary generator. Currently there is no solar, but there is plenty of space - imagine a home completely off the grid.
Defensible space certification and strategically placed high powered 1.5" water hoses located at three corners of the property provide added peace of mind.
Built in 2004, the Spanish clay tile roof and paved driveway are in excellent condition. The property is home for 31 oak trees, 3 sycamore trees, and an incredible four season show put on by the many native species of flora. This is your opportunity to live immersed in nature without sacrificing comfort or security.
Holidays in the South Bay
Pier Lighting Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach Pier - Click on Image
Fantastic evening out, usually just before Thanksgiving, this holiday kickoff event warms the heart and puts a smile on your families faces. Shop, eat and enjoy this magical evening. Parking is a challenge, so get there early.
Tree Lighting Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach Tree Lighting - Click on Image
Absolutely loved the Hermosa Beach tree lighting festival this year. Hermosa Beach also has their annual tree lighting just before Thanksgiving as well, put on by the Hermosa Beach Chamber. This one is special because it’s on a walking street in the Hermosa Plaza. Lots of familiar faces, the community certainly comes out for this one. Get there before sunset, have a bite to eat, listen to live music, watch the sunset, meet Santa and wait for that glorious moment when the tree lights up!
Redondo Beach Riviera Village Holiday Stroll
Redondo Beach Riviera Holiday Stroll - Click on Image
Oh what a night! Redondo Beach takes the holidays to the next level making it clear it strives to be THE place to be for any holiday. Christmas time is no exception! The street is only open to pedestrians and the shops give out treats and gifts! Bars, restaurants and boutiques bring light and warmth and the community brings the good cheer. Friendly faces, everyone dressed up and out to mingle. Wear your Santa hat, bring your family and stroll down the Riviera! Be there or be talked about…
Seaside Ranchos Torrance - Holiday Lights
Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights -Click on Image
You can enter at Robert Road off PCH or off Calle Mayor. If you are driving through, be patient and drive slowly as traffic parades through this area. Roll the windows down and enjoy the community! Pro-tip if you park at Seaside Elementary (4651 Sharynne Lane) and walk through the neighborhood with a cup of hot cocoa, it’s an evening full of holiday cheer.
Terranea Resort Ranch Palos Verdes for the Holidays
Terranea Resort for the Tree Lighting - Click on Image
Anytime is a good time to visit Terranea Resort for a quick 9 holes of golf, a stroll through the incredible grounds along the cliffs of the Pacific, a bit to eat at Nelson’s to catch a glimpse of migrating whales or a drink in the lobby bar next to the fire. That said, the holidays are quite special with one of the most incredible holiday trees you will ever get to see and all the festivities that go along with it. Bring the family and enjoy a glitzy night at one of the most gorgeous resorts in town.
Tree Lighting Palos Verdes Estates
Malaga Cove Tree Lighting - Click on Image
The Malaga Cove Plaza is a special place with its Renaissance revival architecture and Italian fountain, but the best time of year to experience this place is Christmas time. For the tree lighting, the plaza is packed with families and festivities. If you can make this night, the magic will stay with you all year. For parking tips click on the image above.
Tree Lighting Lomita
Lomita City Hall Tree Lighting Festival with real snow sledding! - Click on Image for more info.
This small community packs a big punch! You can tell Lomita City Council and the Lomita Chamber love the Holidays because they put their resources into this event! The entertainment was a Barber Shop Quartet singing Christmas carols and they brought in REAL snow for sledding. The City Hall tree looked magnificient and downtown Lomita is decked out with banners and lights. Food trucks and booths for shopping lined Narbonne Avenue. It has a little something for everyone!
8400 Mipolomol Road, Malibu
This majestic Malibu home is like no other. In pristine condition, set against the backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains, this 3 bedroom 3 and a half bathroom home is something to see. Reach out if you are interested in viewing this home.
Listing by Compass / The Kondo Group / Jessiqa Pace
DRE# 02122433
Lake Arrowhead
The secret to living a fulfilling life in Los Angeles is…get out of dodge!
Los Angeles is a fantastic place to live, with so much opportunity, culture, great neighborhoods and so much to do! That said, it can be a grind with the traffic, the competition, the challenges to make a decent living.
California has so many assets including its coastline, mountains, forests, parks and communities. Getting out of Los Angeles and visiting these California hotspots brings renewed energy, inspiration and lightens the pressures of living in LA.
Lake Arrowhead is just one of the many places to visit and enjoy.
If you’re interested in real estate in Lake Arrowhead, give me a shout! Happy to help with your home search in this beautiful community.
And for the W....
Exploring South Redondo and North Redondo Beach! Both have assists and both have challenges - which is best for you? Reach out for more information. We have lots of new inventory coming your way, so let me know what you’re looking for and we can get a jump on the rest of the market.
Realtor: Jessiqa Pace
Broker: Compass
DRE#02122433
Catalina Vacation Rentals
Ahhhhh, Catalina. The most scenic part of Los Angeles County and a favorite local vacation spot. What a beautiful part of the world - untouched small town California - with dramatic views, great restaurants and good fun. The question is, should you rent or buy a home for vacations in Catalina. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get into it!
Realtor: Jessiqa Pace
DRE#02122433
Seaside, Torrance, California
Seaside is the best kept secret in the South Bay of Los Angeles. I know, I know, everyone says that and uses that phrase. Next you will hear me say this is a hidden gem, right? But it really is. Check out this neighborhood. You get more bang for your buck in Seaside. Call me for more info!
Realtor: Jessiqa Pace
DRE#02122433
(310) 986-9888
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