August was all about movement, both in projects and opportunities. From price improvements on desert properties to uncovering off-market gems, this month reminded me that real estate isn’t just about what’s listed, it’s about knowing where to look and when to act.
Behind the scenes, I’ve been connecting with investors eager to expand their portfolios, shaping ideas for the upcoming Renovate Like a Pro mentorship, and leaning into the balance of design, strategy, and lifestyle that makes the High Desert so unique.
As summer winds down, I’m excited to share what’s unfolding: smarter investments, creative collaborations, and spaces that spark possibility.
Here’s a look at what surfaced and what’s next...
61800 Belmont St, Joshua Tree | Now $111,000
Price Improvement: Originally $144,000 → Now $111,000
What makes this property stand out:
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Legal access, with power and water already at the street
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One Joshua Tree on site (yes, just one, making permitting much easier!)
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Vintage recreational cabin eligible for alteration/addition permits vs. starting from scratch
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Conceptual architectural renderings included
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Short drive to downtown Joshua Tree with expansive, unobstructed views
1853 Winfield Rd, Joshua Tree | $69,000
Set on 5 acres in North Sunfair Heights, this unique property includes:
✔️ Water meter paid + connected
✔️ Zoning potential for up to 14 residential units
✔️ Existing concrete slab from prior homestead
✔️ Power nearby + panoramic desert views
đź’ˇ Investor Highlight: With the right tax strategy and a cost segregation study, this land may qualify for 100% bonus depreciation. Meaning, you could potentially write off a large portion of your investment the same year you buy.
Featured Investment – The Golden Slipper
A beloved local landmark is coming back to life. The former Landers Brew is being reimagined and reborn as The Golden Slipper - a vibrant restaurant, bar, and music venue that will once again be the heart of Landers.
This project offers investors the chance to be part of something unique: reviving a well-known community space with a fresh identity, thoughtful design, and long-term growth potential.
âś… Permits Approved: All necessary permits are already in place, streamlining the path to opening.
âś… Real Estate & Renovation Support: A full team is in place to oversee the property improvements, renovations, and build-out from start to finish.
âś… Multi-Revenue Streams: Alongside the restaurant and live music venue, the property offers potential for a coffee shop window to capture daily traffic and expand revenue.
âś… Community Demand: With limited venues in Landers, there is strong local and tourist demand for food, drink, and live entertainment spaces.
We are seeking investors and partners to fund the build-out and opening of The Golden Slipper. With the foundation already set, this project offers a rare opportunity to enter the desert hospitality market with reduced barriers and high upside potential.
Be part of reviving a Landers legacy and creating the next desert destination.
Off-Market Investment Opportunities
I’m currently working with a select number of off-market properties across the High Desert, opportunities with serious return potential that aren’t hitting the open market. Here’s a preview of what’s available:
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A luxury short-term rental in Yucca Valley netting $150K+ yearly
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A clean duplex in Joshua Tree with solid, steady returns
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A 5-star STR brand + property grossing $200K+ annually
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Additional high-performing STRs across Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, and beyond
đź“© Interested? Reply directly to this newsletter for details, availability, and a private walkthrough of these deals.
Reno Like a Pro | Enrollment Now Open
When I bought my first investment property, I wish I had a roadmap. Most of my consulting clients come to me mid-renovation, stuck + overwhelmed.
That’s why I created Renovate Like a Pro , an 8-week hands-on mentorship to guide you step-by-step through:
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Permits + compliance
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Budgeting + scheduling
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Hiring the right contractors
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Designing for ROI
The first group kicks off September 15 and spaces are limited.
→ Join the waitlist here
STR Wellness Niches: Why They Work
Jessica (@curedesignstyle) + Jen (@stay.cocoon) sat down at the stunning @masseriamorongo (a certified passive home in Morongo Valley) to share:
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Why STRs need to niche to succeed
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Why wellness-focused properties are outperforming
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How consulting + management can save you time, stress + money
→ Watch the full chat on YouTube
Get Interviewed Feature
From Corporate Marketing to Desert Sanctuary
Meet @brittanysodoraleonor of Sage Glow Studio, a design and yoga studio blending creativity and wellness in the high desert.
Her journey from the corporate world to creating a sanctuary of art + intention is pure inspiration.
→ Read the full story on the blog
Investor Insights
In case you missed it on Instagram this month, here are a few key takeaways worth saving:
Before Buying a Short-Term Rental
Don’t just look at the nightly rate potential, check if all improvements are permitted + up to code, and make sure you’re factoring in every cost (not just what looks good on Airbnb). And remember: design isn’t just about pretty photos, it’s what makes a property bookable.
👉 Catch the full post here
Duplex Strategy 101
One of the smartest ways to invest? Live in one unit, rent out the other. This strategy can offset your mortgage and unlock major tax benefits, like 100% bonus depreciation and Section 179 deductions coming in 2025.
👉 See the breakdown here
3 Renovation Mistakes First-Timers Make
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Starting without a clear plan
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Hiring the cheapest contractor
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Forgetting about code compliance (the costliest mistake of all)
Looking Ahead to September
As mentioned above, Renovate Like a Pro is officially kicking off this month, a mentorship created for homeowners, DIYers, and investors ready to take on renovations with clarity, confidence, and expert guidance.
Beyond that, September is centered on building smarter, healthier spaces. We’ll be sharing insights on how thoughtful design and renovation choices can create healthy homes that support well-being while also adding long-term value.
It’s all about renovation with intention, where great design meets smart investment.
Final Thoughts: Rooted in Strategy, Ready to Grow
Whether you’re eyeing your first investment, scaling your portfolio, or just looking for fresh inspiration, August brings plenty of opportunities to make your real estate goals a reality.
➡ Want personalized real estate insights? Fill out our quick questionnaire and book a discovery call today!
đź”— Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Tiktok and Youtube for daily updates, expert advice, and exclusive property sneak peeks!
xx
Jessica Cure
Planning Commissioner | Real Estate Consultant | STR Strategist
www.curedesigns.com | @curedesignstyle
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