Moving To Palm Springs. Your Local Guide
Palm Springs is the heart of the Coachella Valley and one of the most recognizable resort destinations in the world. Known for its iconic mid-century modern architecture, year-round sunshine, luxury resorts, and vibrant arts scene, Palm Springs attracts visitors from across the globe while offering residents an unmatched desert lifestyle.
For decades, Palm Springs has been a favorite getaway for Hollywood stars seeking privacy and relaxation. Legends like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Bob Hope, Liberace, Dean Martin, and Marilyn Monroe all had ties to the city, helping shape its glamorous reputation. Today, Palm Springs continues to attract celebrities, business leaders, artists, and creatives who appreciate its unique blend of luxury, history, and laid-back living.
There's never a shortage of things to do. Spend the day exploring boutique shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants downtown, ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway into the San Jacinto Mountains, hike scenic desert trails, relax at world-class spas, or enjoy one of the city's many golf courses. Throughout the year, Palm Springs hosts internationally recognized events including Modernism Week, Palm Springs International Film Festival, Palm Springs Pride, Village Fest, and serves as a hub during the Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals.
Whether you're looking for a full-time residence, a second home, or a vacation property, Palm Springs offers something for nearly every lifestyle. From historic neighborhoods and luxury estates to stylish condos and golf course communities, it's easy to see why so many people fall in love with this desert oasis and decide to call it home. As a local Palm Springs REALTOR®, I help buyers and sellers navigate every step of the process while sharing the local knowledge that makes choosing the right neighborhood easier.
Understanding Indian Lease Land
Fee Land Vs Fee Simple
One of the unique aspects of buying real estate in Palm Springs is Indian Lease Land. While many homes sit on traditional fee land, a significant number are located on land owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and leased to homeowners for a set period of time.
Buying a home on lease land is different from buying a home on fee land because you own the home itself, but lease the land beneath it. Homeowners pay a land lease, typically on a monthly or annual basis, in addition to their mortgage, property taxes, and HOA dues if applicable.
Lease land isn't necessarily a disadvantage. In fact, many properties on lease land offer lower purchase prices than comparable homes on fee land, allowing buyers to enjoy desirable neighborhoods, golf course communities, and prime Palm Springs locations at a more affordable price. Thousands of homeowners live happily on lease land throughout the Coachella Valley.
Every lease is different, with varying expiration dates, lease payments, and terms. That's why it's important to understand the details of a specific property before making an offer. As your Realtor, I'll help you review the lease, explain how it may impact financing and resale, and ensure you have the information you need to make an informed decision.
Whether a home is on fee land or Indian Lease Land, the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and long-term plans.
Things To Do & Places To Visit In Palm Springs
Every Thursday evening, downtown Palm Springs comes alive with VillageFest, one of my favorite weekly traditions. Palm Canyon Drive closes to traffic and transforms into a lively street fair filled with local artists, handmade goods, fresh food, live entertainment, and small businesses. The hours vary by season, but no matter the time of year, it's the perfect excuse to take a stroll through downtown, discover something new, and support the incredible local vendors that make Palm Springs so special.
One thing that surprised me after moving here from the San Francisco area? The abundance of free parking! There are several free public parking lots and garages just steps from the festivities, making it easy to spend the evening exploring without worrying about feeding a parking meter. Whether you're a local or visiting for the weekend, VillageFest is a Palm Springs tradition you won't want to miss.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the Coachella Valley's most iconic attractions and an experience I recommend to just about everyone visiting the desert. As the world's largest rotating tramcar climbs more than 8,500 feet up the cliffs of Mount San Jacinto, you'll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the valley below.
At the top, you'll find a completely different environment. Temperatures are often 30 to 40 degrees cooler than on the valley floor, making it a welcome escape during the warmer months. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, a natural history museum, two restaurants, and even snow during the winter. Whether you're looking for adventure or simply want to take in one of the best views in Southern California, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-do.
Whether you're grabbing a cocktail at Chill Bar, catching a drag show at Hunters, enjoying dinner at Blackbook, or singing along at Quadz, there's always something happening. During the day, you'll find people shopping, dining, and relaxing on patios. At night, the district comes alive with music, dancing, and an energy that's uniquely Palm Springs.
The Arenas District also hosts some of the city's biggest celebrations, including the annual Palm Springs Pride Block Party, The Big Gay BBQQ, and countless community events throughout the year. It's more than just a nightlife destination. It's a place where people come together to celebrate community, diversity, and authenticity, making it one of the things I love most about Palm Springs.
Originally opened in 1936, the Plaza Theatre has long been a cornerstone of Palm Springs' history and entertainment scene. After an extensive restoration, this iconic landmark has been beautifully brought back to life, blending its historic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with modern amenities while preserving the character that made it a local treasure.
The theatre reopened with an unforgettable Opening Night Gala headlined by Cynthia Erivo, signaling a new era of world-class entertainment in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Since then, the Plaza has welcomed an exciting lineup of performers including RuPaul's Drag Race favorites Alaska 5000 and Monet X Change, family-friendly shows like Puppy Pals Live from America's Got Talent, comedy acts such as Kathy Griffin, classic movie nights, concerts, and special community events.
Whether you're catching a Broadway-caliber performance, enjoying a nostalgic movie night, or seeing your favorite comedian or musician, the Plaza Theatre has once again become one of the best places to experience live entertainment in Palm Springs. If you're spending time downtown, I highly recommend checking the event calendar. You never know who might be taking the stage next!
Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, this award-winning wellness destination is built around the sacred hot mineral spring of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, whose healing waters have been cherished for thousands of years. The name "Séc-he" comes from the Cahuilla language and means "the sound of boiling water."
You can enjoy luxurious spa treatments, private mineral baths, therapeutic pools, salt caves, saunas, steam rooms, float therapy, and peaceful relaxation spaces, all designed to create a one-of-a-kind wellness experience. Whether you're looking to unwind after a day of exploring Palm Springs or simply treat yourself to a day of self-care, The Spa at Séc-he offers an unforgettable escape rooted in the natural healing traditions of the desert.
The spa is incredibly popular with both locals and visitors, especially during weekends and peak season, so it's always best to book your reservation well in advance.
Great Shakes
The menu is written on a giant chalkboard, and the list of shakes seems to go on forever. Every shake is made to order and topped off with one of their signature mini donuts perched right on the straw. They even offer lactose-free options! Also on the menu are malt, floats, & dole Whip
Whether you're strolling downtown after dinner or just looking for the perfect dessert, Great Shakes is a Palm Springs staple that's absolutely worth the stop. Just don't blame me if you find yourself planning your next visit before you've even finished your shake.
Every Thursday evening, downtown Palm Springs comes alive with VillageFest, one of my favorite weekly traditions. Palm Canyon Drive closes to traffic and transforms into a lively street fair filled with local artists, handmade goods, fresh food, live entertainment, and small businesses. The hours vary by season, but no matter the time of year, it's the perfect excuse to take a stroll through downtown, discover something new, and support the incredible local vendors that make Palm Springs so special.
One thing that surprised me after moving here from the San Francisco area? The abundance of free parking! There are several free public parking lots and garages just steps from the festivities, making it easy to spend the evening exploring without worrying about feeding a parking meter. Whether you're a local or visiting for the weekend, VillageFest is a Palm Springs tradition you won't want to miss.
Originally opened in 1936, the Plaza Theatre has long been a cornerstone of Palm Springs' history and entertainment scene. After an extensive restoration, this iconic landmark has been beautifully brought back to life, blending its historic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with modern amenities while preserving the character that made it a local treasure.
The theatre reopened with an unforgettable Opening Night Gala headlined by Cynthia Erivo, signaling a new era of world-class entertainment in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Since then, the Plaza has welcomed an exciting lineup of performers including RuPaul's Drag Race favorites Alaska 5000 and Monet X Change, family-friendly shows like Puppy Pals Live from America's Got Talent, comedy acts such as Kathy Griffin, classic movie nights, concerts, and special community events.
Whether you're catching a Broadway-caliber performance, enjoying a nostalgic movie night, or seeing your favorite comedian or musician, the Plaza Theatre has once again become one of the best places to experience live entertainment in Palm Springs. If you're spending time downtown, I highly recommend checking the event calendar. You never know who might be taking the stage next!
Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, this award-winning wellness destination is built around the sacred hot mineral spring of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, whose healing waters have been cherished for thousands of years. The name "Séc-he" comes from the Cahuilla language and means "the sound of boiling water."
You can enjoy luxurious spa treatments, private mineral baths, therapeutic pools, salt caves, saunas, steam rooms, float therapy, and peaceful relaxation spaces, all designed to create a one-of-a-kind wellness experience. Whether you're looking to unwind after a day of exploring Palm Springs or simply treat yourself to a day of self-care, The Spa at Séc-he offers an unforgettable escape rooted in the natural healing traditions of the desert.
The spa is incredibly popular with both locals and visitors, especially during weekends and peak season, so it's always best to book your reservation well in advance.
The menu is written on a giant chalkboard, and the list of shakes seems to go on forever. Every shake is made to order and topped off with one of their signature mini donuts perched right on the straw. They even offer lactose-free options! Also on the menu are malt, floats, & dole Whip
Whether you're strolling downtown after dinner or just looking for the perfect dessert, Great Shakes is a Palm Springs staple that's absolutely worth the stop. Just don't blame me if you find yourself planning your next visit before you've even finished your shake.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the Coachella Valley's most iconic attractions and an experience I recommend to just about everyone visiting the desert. As the world's largest rotating tramcar climbs more than 8,500 feet up the cliffs of Mount San Jacinto, you'll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the valley below.
At the top, you'll find a completely different environment. Temperatures are often 30 to 40 degrees cooler than on the valley floor, making it a welcome escape during the warmer months. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, a natural history museum, two restaurants, and even snow during the winter. Whether you're looking for adventure or simply want to take in one of the best views in Southern California, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-do.
Whether you're grabbing a cocktail at Chill Bar, catching a drag show at Hunters, enjoying dinner at Blackbook, or singing along at Quadz, there's always something happening. During the day, you'll find people shopping, dining, and relaxing on patios. At night, the district comes alive with music, dancing, and an energy that's uniquely Palm Springs.
The Arenas District also hosts some of the city's biggest celebrations, including the annual Palm Springs Pride Block Party, The Big Gay BBQQ, and countless community events throughout the year. It's more than just a nightlife destination. It's a place where people come together to celebrate community, diversity, and authenticity, making it one of the things I love most about Palm Springs.
Our Reviews
Jermaine & his team did an amazing job selling our house! His honesty and down-to-earth approach made the process so much easier. Highly recommend him!
- Kevin G.
Jermaine was amazing to work with while buying our first home. He was very patient and really made the whole process less stressful for us even when we thought it was not possible. We’re so grateful for his help and would recommend him. He made our dream possible. Thank you!
- Ignacio A.
Jermaine sold my home in under 60 days!! Responsive, courteous, timely, honest, down to earth, has the best open houses ever, and a great network of title and escrow agents. He’s great!!!
- Noelia N.
Jermainen Antonio Gill
REALTOR® | DRE#02226055
Jermaine Antonio Gill
REALTOR® DRE#02226055