JIM HELKE - Key Persons

Job Titles:

• Coldwell Banker Palos Verdes Realty

Palos Verdes Estates is unique in that it is a master planned - deeded city. The land area of Palos Verdes Estates was purchased in 1922 by the real estate people who envisioned its development. The purchase price was $1,344,739.96 for 3200 acres ($420.23 per acre). The Palos Verdes Homes Association, was the original governing body and still serves the community by upholding the city's aesthetic standards. Palos Verdes Estates was incorporated in 1939 and is unique in that it is a deeded city with nearly 50% of the area of the city dedicated as parks, school sites, recreation area, natural preserves and rights of way. The development was in financial difficulty due to the great depression so the remaining lots in the city were liquidated in a public auction in June 1939 held at the plaza. Due to the financial stress of the great depression resulting in tax liens owed to the county by the homes association, there arose great dissension among the residents and developers of the Palos Verdes Project. The vote to become a city was contentious and on December 9, 1939, 213 votes for incorporation and 206 votes against, were cast. The city of Palos Verdes Estates was incorporated by a mere seven votes. The city has 4.5 miles of coastline that is all deeded to the city. The only multiple housing in Palos Verdes estates is located near the commercial districts in Malaga Cove and Lunada Bay. Nearly all homes in Palos Verdes Estates are custom built rather than tract homes. Palos Verdes Estates is unique in that it is a 'deed restricted city' and has a controlling body known as the 'Homes Association'. Architectural styles and designs are subject to the review and approval of the 'Art Jury' (a panel including professional architects). Each lot has specific architectural controls that dictate exterior styles such as Spanish, Ranch, etc.; and also specify exterior design features such as windows, roof, materials, and colors. Each property owner is a member of the Homes Association and each parcel of land entitles the owner to one vote. The Palos Verdes Homes Association is responsible for enforcing the deed restrictions of the City of Palos Verdes Estates. The Planning Commission reviews applications and makes recommendations to the city council which is the governing body. The Homes Association and the Planning department are separate bodies and approvals must be obtained from both. A copy of submitted plans for each home is maintained at the Homes Association office.