High Definition Video Home Tours

Remember the days of waiting several minutes for a jerky virtual tour to load? You'll see them every now and then online. The stitched together jpeg files that let you see a room by changing the direction by clockwise or counterclockwise. Those days are already over, the future now belongs to high definition video home tours.


Why settle watching some outdated low resolution tour when there are plenty of professional grade high definition video tours out there. As a home owner, why would you list your home with someone that is using old technology to market your home?


If you are looking for high definition alternative, I recommend High Five Productions for all of your Las Vegas Video services.

The State of Nevada Real Estate

The state of the Las Vegas real estate market has been great if you thinking of buying a home and living in that home for several years. Foreclosures over the last 2 years had pushed prices down to levels not seen here since the mid 1990's. Despite government intervention, foreclosures are still happening, mostly due to job loss. While unemployment is still high, the unemployment rate has stopped going up both here in Nevada and nationally.

The extension of the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit has also impacted the market in a positive way. Home buyers now have the opportunity to take advantage of the credit for another three months. So it begs the question, will 2010 be the year of recovery for the Las Vegas real estate market?

Please feel free to comment and leave your thoughts.

Chester the Molester Gets LIFE

Chester Stiles whom I've dubbed Chester the Molester, was convicted earlier this year on several counts of child molestation. In a rare instance of true justice, Chester was sentenced to 21 LIFE sentences. That's right, he is NEVER going to harm another child again.

Mr. Stiles appeared before the court and gave a statement, whining that the tape wasn't properly inspected or some such garbage and that he was being treated unfairly because of the media attention. Perhaps he has a point. Perhaps no one gives a **** because he was without a doubt guilty as charged and had gotten away with it for years. I know he handed a life sentence to his victims. I'm sure parents here in the Las Vegas valley will rest a little easier knowing that a child predator is behind bars permanently.

Also a tip of the hat for a job well done to the city of Henderson police department for nabbing Stiles originally.

I'm sure Mr. Stiles will appeal and appeal. But in the mean time, his victims and their families can rest easy knowing justice was served.

Related:

Chester the Molester Goes on Trial

Protesters at Sunset Park

One of the great things about this country is freedom of assembly...even the freedom to make an idiot out of yourself in public. But please leave your kids at home. As I was driving home from Green Valley I made the mistake of driving down Eastern past Sunset Park.

There is a small group of people protesting a bill, Senator Reid and President Obama. As I was stopped, waiting for them to get out of the street and let traffic move, I asked an older lady exactly what she was protesting. She really couldn't give me a straight answer strangely enough. She felt President Obama with the help of Senator Reid was leading us into socialism. The banks should all fail. So I asked her why wasn't she protesting when President Bush gave out the tarp funds without any oversight or restrictions. She didn't have a reply to that and walked off in a huff.

Another thing too and this one lends to credibility. If you're going to protest, at least have the intelligence to make sure your the statements on your signs are spelled correctly. Have some verifiable facts to back up your statements. Don't try to cloak hate mongering in legitimate protesting either.

Foreign Investment in Las Vegas

It seems that America is a giant yard sale for foreign investment. The flood started with our good neighbors to the north, buying up vacation and second homes in depressed markets like Scottsdale and Las Vegas. European also jumped on the bandwagon with similar purchases. Dubai had already started years ago, purchasing an interest in the massive MGM CityCenter project (which recently scaled back of its condos in the Harmon building) and the list continues. Of course, these investors are bringing some much needed capital to our economy so we shouldn't be too upset, should we?

I think we should be a little wary. After all, there is no such thing as a free ride. Then again, America businesses track record of late leaves a lot to be desired.

Another group of casinos may be bought up by overseas investors. This time its the Cannery Casino Resorts. The Cannery has two locations, a brand new casino resort on Boulder Highway on the site of the former Nevada Palace and another on Craig Road. Last week the state Gaming Control Board okayed the $1.8 billion acquisition of Cannery Casino Resorts by Crown Ltd, based in Melbourne, Australia. Of course, the deal still has to be approved by the state Gaming Commission but usually its just a formality.

Popular Posts of 2008

Another year has come to an end. 2008 was pretty rough for businesses and consumers alike. Massive foreclosures, unprecedented fraud, huge bailouts and one crisis after another and yet we survived. Las Vegas has been pretty hard hit since tourism and construction are the main engines of our economy. The news isn't all bad though. The massive foreclosure glut has driven down home prices, making them affordable again for the average homebuyer. Steve Wynn decided to not stop development of the Encore resort and it opened on time and has done well. The following list of posts are based on traffic over the past year in no particular order. Thanks for visiting my blog and I hope you have a terrific new year.

• The Monte Carlo Fire The start of the new year news cycle started with this fire.
• Barack Obama Town Meeting This meeting was a harbringer of the effect Obama would have on Nevada voters. The venue was woefully undersized and staffed for the massive crowds that turned out.
• Spaceship House for Sale A short video about a spaceship home for sale as well as examples of other spaceship homes around the United States. Check out the Futuro, home of the future circa the 1960's.
• OJ Verdict America's fascination/disgust with Orenthal has died down a bit since his first criminal trial, but plenty of people were interested in the final verdict.
• Top Five Las Vegas Condo Communities Everyone loves lists. Lists my picks for the best condo communities Vegas has to offer.
• Spammed by a former "Apprentice" The repeated spamming by a former apprentice of the "Don". I doubt he advocated that technique. No wonder she was fired.
• Health Crisis The legal battle with this clinic is still ongoing. My father actually went there, thankfully he didn't contract Hep C.
• Renters Protect Yourself Earlier this year many renters were finding themselves thrown out due to foreclosure. Thankfully, many banks are realizing having a tenant in a property isn't a bad thing.
• How I spent my Summer This past summer I was diagnosed with a rare, progressive syndrome that led to full paralysis. Thankfully it was treatable and I am fully recovered.
• Rental Scam on Craigslist These scams are still going on, despite plenty of coverage warning people.

Here is last year's 2007 popular posts

Rental scam on Craig's List

These types of scams are hardly new. Scammers will 'rent' vacant homes to unsuspecting victims. Earlier this year, an alert was sent out to local Realtors to beware of rental scams.

Metro has arrested two individuals who allegedly rented a vacant home to an unsuspecting woman. One of the scammers claimed to be a real estate broker. The scam came to light when an absentee owner from California found his Las Vegas home occupied by a woman and her two kids. The woman had answered an ad placed on Craig's list several months ago. She met a woman named Melinda Hertz, signed a rental contract and paid the rent in cash.

The police set up a sting operation to catch the criminals. On Monday, the woman arranged to meet at a restaurant to pay rent. Afterwards, police investigators swooped in and arrested 26 year old Melissa Cowan and Emilio Gonzales, 53. Both individuals are facing criminal charges of conspiracy, burglary and obtaining money under false pretenses.

Where I've been - paralyzed

Last month I came down with a nasty head cold that had been going around the valley. After about a week, I started feeling a lot better and thought I was over it. I woke up one morning feeling like a slept wrong or pinched a nerve in my back. My legs felt like I had worked out too hard and my finger tips were a little numb---like pins and needles. By the next day it got progressively worse. I had trouble walking, standing for any length of time and my dexterity in my hands decreased. My wife called her doctor for an appointment the next day. By the evening we decided that I needed to go to the hospital. I went to UMC and by midnight couldn't stand or move my legs more than a few inches.

My symptoms matched some very unpleasant and fatal diseases and for the first 2 days my diagnosis wasn't set in stone. After a spinal tap, two MRIs, two cat scans and several x-rays, they were able to rule out a lesion, tumor, ALS (known as Lou Gehrig's disease) or MS. I had Guillain-Barre Syndrome, something I had never heard of until I had it. Initially the doctors told me I would probably be hospitalized for at least two weeks and would need several months to recover. The treatment is a five day course of medicine given through an IV. The paralysis finally stopped when it reached my left lung (thankfully I didn't need to be put on a ventilator) on day 4. I was finally able to stand again four days after that and was released on day 10. Currently I'm in out patient rehab for the next several weeks.

To make matters worse, like most Americans I don't have health insurance. My good friends in Arizona set up a fund to help pay my medical bills. (You can get the widget there as well)

Donate to the Charles Richey Fund

Friend, husband and fellow real estate blogger was unexpectedly hospitalized read more

Gary Schmitz of the US real estate directory fame has generously donated all proceeds of his new start up directory Affordable real estate solution for new signups for the month of July. There are so many people to thank that I will be revisiting this topic over the next several months. Thank you all for your support.

World Series of Poker 2008

Today marked the start of the 2008 World Series of Poker. The first event was held today at the Rio Hotel and Casino. The series started at noon with a $10,000 World Championship Pot-Limit Hold'em. Last year's champion, 39 year old Jerry Yang is expected to return to defend his title.

The "Main Event" is July 3 through the 14th, with the final WSOP final table on November 9. The event is free for spectators and it's expected that over 100,000 people will end up watching the event.

Entry fees for the tourney range from $1,000 up to $50,000. WSOP expected over 30,000 players. For complete tournament details and scheduled events, visit worldseriesofpoker.com.

If you are coming into town for tourney and are looking for the best deals, check out Savelv.com. Randi has put together a great list of things to do and where the best deals are in town.

Tragedy at Excalibur

One of the most horrific things possible has happened at the Excalibur (3850 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109). A new born infant was found dead in a restroom trash can by a hotel employee Sunday night. That's right, on Mother's Day. The umbilical cord was still attached and the body was in a pillow case wrapped up in one of the hotel's gift bags, tossed away like so much trash. What the hell is wrong with people?! There are places in Las Vegas where mothers can drop off their babies, no questions asked. Three were within just a few miles of the Excalibur. They would have found a loving home for the child at no cost to the mother.

Metro is investigating and I'm sure the local news will have more information later today. If you have any information regarding the identity of the parties involved, call crime stoppers at 385-5555. Metro is waiting for an autopsy to see whether the baby boy was alive before being placed in the trash.

If you are pregnant and need help with your child, call the National Baby Help line at 888-510-baby or visit saveabandonedbabies.org.

Top Five Condo Communities in Las Vegas

More than 5,000 people a month move to the Las Vegas valley and they all ask some of the same questions. Where are the best schools? Best communities? Condos close to the strip? Homes near UNLV, etc. So I thought I would give my opinion on some of those questions, by putting together this list of what I think are the top five condominium communities in Las Vegas and the reasons why.

• Manhattan West - I gave this community top billing because of their innovative floor plan packages (no one else offers anything like them) and great community amenities. Manhattan West also offers unparalleled buyer protection programs. It's a truly unique community, a rarity in Las Vegas.
• Sedona Las Vegas - This is a condo conversion, located on Las Vegas Boulevard, just down the street from Mandalay Bay. The community has several pools, spas, racquetball court, tennis court and other resort style amenities.
• Sullivan Square - This is a completely green condominium community. It has its own unique architectural style, offering a variety of loft and condominium residences.
• Sky Las Vegas - This is the only residential high rise on the Las Vegas strip (at the moment). Sky Las Vegas offers all of the high end amenities you would expect in a luxury condo community.
• Desert Shores Villas - This one makes the list on location alone. Another condominium conversion, the condos themselves are the average fare. However, residents go enjoy all of the Desert Shores community amenities. The lakes attract all kinds of wildlife including migrant ducks and swans.

Health crisis in Las Vegas

Earlier this month, several clinics owned by Endoscopy Center of Southern Nevada were shut down due to a hepatitis outbreak at their Shadow Lane location. Now it’s come to light that the clinic’s majority owner, Dr Depak Desai has political ties to Nevada governor Jim Gibbons. Dr. Desai served on the governor’s health care transition team before he officially took office in January of last year, which may explain the governor's defense of the clinics early on. Gibbons expressed his concern that Nevadans wouldn’t seek medical help over the media’s “buffoonery.” On the other hand, he asked that three members of the state board of medical examiners to step down that have ties to the hepatitis scare at Clark county endoscopy clinics. One of the three is also the Chief of the Bureau of Licensing and Certification. Gibbons also stated, ”more inspections by more state staffers may not have stopped clinic practices that led to a recent hepatitis outbreak in Las Vegas” last week, despite having fought for a plan for more medical surveyors in 2007. However, he had also stated about their actions "that does constitute a criminal act" and those responsible "must be held accountable." A flip flop of his other statements....

Another Hepatitis case confirmed

The latest case brings the total to 7 confirmed cases of the disease and the first death. James Cromwell passed away due to liver disease secondary to hepatitis C. His wife, Janice has filed a wrongful death suit against Endoscopy Center. As with the other cases, the victim’s blood work never showed hepatitis C before he visited the clinic. Mr. Cromwell had passed away in May of 2006. Mrs. Cromwell also intends to file a police report, hoping murder charges will be brought against the doctor involved.

More cases

Robert Cox may be the next person added to the list of victims. He underwent two procedures at the Desert Shadow Endoscopy Center on Burnham Avenue several years ago. Prior to those procedures, he had never tested positive for hepatitis. Mr. Cox was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2005 and sought additional testing after receiving a letter from his medical provider urging him to do so. Mr. Cox’s test came back positive for hepatitis B as well. The results have been forwarded to the health department for investigation. Mr. Cox said the doctor who performed the procedures was Dr. Vishvinder Sharma, who recently resigned from the State Medical Board on March 7 and was a partner of Dr. Depak Desai.

Nevada clinics not the first

This type of outbreak is nothing new. Back in October of 2002, the New York Times ran a piece about 10 cancer patients that may have contracted Hepatitis C from a Nebraska clinic. The clinic was reusing hypodermic needles. The clinic owner, Dr. Javed fled to Pakistan and was not heard from again. The next month, a survey by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) in Illinois found that 1 in 100 healthcare providers were using the same needle on multiple patients. "There is no excuse for ever reusing a needle or syringe on different patients," said Rodney Lester, CRNA, PhD, president of the 30,000-member AANA. "It is most disturbing that even 1 percent of the healthcare providers surveyed do this, potentially exposing millions of patients each year to needles and/or syringes contaminated with Hepatitis, HIV, or other life-threatening infectious diseases."

So this has been a known issue, well documented and the consquences known. I have a feeling that if other states start inspecting clinics they might find the same practices.

Sources: lasvegasnow.com, msnbc.msn.com, aana.com & New York Times

Crisis in Las Vegas: Doom and Gloom in Sin City

Deadly poison found in Las Vegas

It has been an "interesting" week here (think the chinese proverb) in Las Vegas to say the least. A highly toxic poison Ricin was found here in the valley. Metro and the FBI are investigating and stated that currently they are treating it as a public safety issue. The poison was discovered in Roger Von Bergendorff's hotel room along with some firearms and an anarchist textbook. Von Bergendorff is still in the hospital, although the cause of his illness hasn't been determined. The FBI have also searched storage units and a relative's house in connection with the investigation. Authorities have confirmed the man was a loner.

Sources: Associated Press, Salt Lake Tribune

Possible Hepatitis Outbreak

If that wasn't bad enough, a series of local clinics were shut down due to a hepatitis outbreak. Talk about feeding the candidates with an example of why health care should be provided by the government. Clinic operators decided to SAVE MONEY by REUSING syringes, single drug doses, etc. People that used the clinic are now being tested for Hepatitis B, C and HIV, because they wanted to save a few bucks.

My neighbor actually went to the Endoscopy Center of Southern Nevada (located at 700 Shadow Lane) on the orders of his doctor for some tests the day before the outbreak occurred. The total number of clinics shut down is now up to six. Its estimated that as many as 40,000 people could be affected from just the one clinic. The clinic operates under the umbrella of the Gastroenterology Center of Nevada, which has several other clinics (some that have been shut down) across the valley. If you have used their services, its imperative that you get yourself tested. So far, six cases of Hepatitis C have been linked to the Shadow Lane clinic. But my neighbor has been told that they will need to be tested every six months for the rest of their lives.

Five certified registered nurse anesthetists who worked at the Shadow Lane location were asked to voluntary surrender their licenses. All five complied. Local police and county prosecutors have opened a preliminary criminal investigation this past Monday. Even with all these risks being front and center in the news during a recent inspection by the Nevada Health Division found unsafe practices at other clinics around the valley.

Local attorneys have started advertising for clients, you can hear the class action train coming.

The Southern Nevada Health District has set up a hotline. The number is (702)759-4636 (INFO) Call to schedule testing or if you have health questions. This past January the clinic was told to stop reusing syringes when administering drugs.

Sources: Las Vegas Review Journal, KLAS Channel 8

Historical Inter-racial hotel may get a facelift

In other more positive news, the Las Vegas Planning Commission voted to allow the Moulin Rouge restoration go forward, approving the various permits, variances, etc that are needed. Final approval for their application will need to be granted by the city council and that may happen in early April. I seriously doubt that the project will not get it. Its one of the few historic landmarks left, although only the facade and sign survived the arson in 2003. But considering the commitment of the city and Mayor Goodman about the continued revitalization of downtown Las Vegas, its a safe bet that the Moulin Rouge project will be approved. According to the developers, if the project is approved they plan on breaking ground next year and have phase one completed by the end of 2010.

source: city of Las Vegas

Gas bills gone wild

Las Vegas valley residents got a nasty shock last month, in the form of their gas bill. Southwest Gas has been replacing gas meters all over the valley. Ours was replaced on New Year's Eve....just in time for our gas bill to DOUBLE the following month. According to SWG, our usage was the highest ever for the last 2 months. Granted it was an actual winter this year, but we hadn't had the gas fireplace on nor was the heater on the spa used either.

You're not alone

Talking to my neighbors I got the same thing. Their gas bills were twice what they usually were. My wife's nail lady said her bill doubled, and they are gone during the day with the thermostat set in the 60's. She said her bill was still over $300. Has anyone else seen their bills shoot through the roof?

Obama Town Meeting

The RJ has an article in today's paper stating that Barack Obama is scheduled to meet with the culinary union and there will be a town hall meeting at Del Sol high school. I received a call from Obama campaign staff and received some clarification. According to his staff, the meeting is open to the public, no tickets are required.

The town hall meeting starts at 5 pm at Del Sol high school, located at 3100 E Patrick Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89120 (between Pecos and Eastern). Map

For more information, call 253-2008.

What's been going on in Las Vegas

It's hard this time of year with everything going on to keep up on all of my projects. Just to update you all on what has been happening here in Las Vegas, there is plenty of news. Back in October I reported the capture of Chester Styles. This scumbag was back in court today, rejecting a plea offering. I guess he's hoping to make the victim have to testify, along why he would when there is VIDEO of him molesting her is beyond me. May he ROT IN JAIL.

In keeping with the spirit of the holidays, some scumbag is going around local neighbors posing as an employee of the Community Outreach Ministries that operates a local thrift store (zip 89110), selling needed merchandise at prices everyone can afford. The ministry also accepts donated automobiles, and there is where our scumbag comes in. So far its estimated that he has scammed eight cars from caring, giving individuals in the valley. If you are approached by this individual, don't try to apprehend him, simply contact Metro. More importantly, if you have items you wish to donate please contact them directly.

Local residents of the Sundance Village Apartments were forced to evacuate when one of the buildings caught fire earlier this afternoon. The blaze broke out about 2 pm. Thankfully no one was killed and the six residents evacuated have been moved to other vacant apartments in the complex.

In other Las Vegas real estate news, another condo complex has been cancelled, but its not what you think. The full story about the condo cancellation can be found on my other blog.

Pictures with Santa

I'll be appearing again at PetSmart playing Santa. Last weekend I was at the PetSmart at Rainbow and US 95. This Sunday I'll be at the Silverado store from 11 am to 4 pm. The pictures are $9.95 or $8.95 if you have a PetSmart card and $5 of that goes to my favorite animal charity, Heaven Can Wait Sanctuary.

So bring the dog, the cat, bird, snake whatever in for a picture and get a great keepsake while helping out a deserving charity. See you there.

OJ Pleads Not Guilty

OJ was back in court yesterday, along with 2 co-defendants. Simpson is facing 12 charges stemming from the alleged armed robbery and attempted kidnapping of a sport memorabilia dealer at the Palace Station Hotel and Casino earlier this year. The judge ruled that OJ did not have to stay in town until the trial.

OJ's co-defendants, Charles Ehrlich and Clarence Stewart, also entered not guilty pleas. The trial is set for April 7 for all three of the accused.

Related:

About to be squeezed
OJ Update
OJ Claims he was getting back stolen goods
Juice is loose in Vegas

You have to love the holidays

With Christmas literally right around the corner, you would hope that more people would embrace the spirit of the holidays, regardless of your personal beliefs. What has happened to goodwill toward your fellow man? Just a few minutes ago I looked out my window and saw the Metro canine unit parked in front of my neighbor's house.

Apparently, a man was hiding in her backyard from the police. He had been shooting earlier up the street and had fled from police. Thankfully, my elderly neighbor was not home at the time. Unfortunately for him, we have a top notch police force with a great canine unit. He was quickly found and apprehended. First thing tomorrow I'm taking some food down to the Harmon substation and some treats for the dogs. I am truly thankful for the men, women and canine officers serving to keep us safe.

OJ to stand trial

In a not so surprising move, this past Wednesday Las Vegas judge Joe Bonaventure ordered OJ Simpson and two co-defendants to stand trial for the alleged robbing of a sports memorabilia dealer at the Palace Station hotel and casino on September 13th. The trial is set for November 28th. Will it turn into another televised media circus? A distinct possibility. Usbet.com has already posted odds on OJ and his trial.

If convicted, its quite possible that Simpson, age 60, would spend the rest of his life behind bars.

Related posts:

About to be squeezed
OJ Update
OJ Claims he was getting back stolen goods
Juice is loose in Vegas