Realty Insights for Home Buying, Home Selling, and Indy Info

Easter Egg Hunts--Not Just for Children Alone!

2011-04-07T22:25:00.000-04:00

For the last two years, we have enjoyed the novelty of an Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs. Our schnoodle loves the comraderie of the other dogs. The event each year has been held at Carmel's West Park. The dogs are divided into large 26 lbs or more and small under 25 lbs. At the "go", the dogs on leashes sprint into the fields to find treats. The treats are hidden inside (you guessed it) plastic eggs. Some of the eggs have numbers inside of them. These special eggs may be redeemed for a dog toy.

It is a fun time, and of course there is always a dog or two that escapes and romps around. We have ended the hunt with a bag of dog treats, bakery dog bones, and at least one dog toy. I am not sure who enjoys the hunt more--our family or the dog.

This year's event is on April 16th at 11:00. The fee is $3.00 per dog.

Do you have an event like this in your area? Tell us about it.

It's February And You Are Thinking of Buying a Home. 5 Reasons to Begin Your Home Search Now

2011-02-10T14:24:00.001-05:00

It's cold outside! Believe it or not, it is still a wonderful time to buy a home.

*Interest rates are still at near historic lows and the *inventory of homes is plentiful. More homes will come on the market in the next two months as sellers who have been waiting to get past the holiday season are ready to offer their home for sale. This trend will continue as we move towards Spring and the warmer Summer months.

*There are less buyers in the market now than there will be in the Spring, the traditionally most active time of the year. So there is less competition for the home you may want. You will have the opportunity to negotiate more aggressively with a Seller that is motivated now.

*Winter is an excellent time to check on the energy efficiency of homes. Feel the areas around doors and windows to see if air flow is noticeable. Does the home seem well constructed? Look at the roof if there is snow to see if the snow is melting evenly. An area that is melting much faster than others may indicate a lack of insulation. Heat is escaping in that area.

*Homes are more completely tested during weather extremes. An inspection on the home you choose will be even more beneficial in revealing areas that need improvement. A clause can be written in your purchase agreement to allow you time to return to check the roof when weather permits.

*Interest rates are still at historic lows. A 30 year fixed rate is currently around 5.25% without adding points, or at 5% with 2 points. The cost of a point is 1% of the loan amount. By buying now, you may save significantly on your monthly payment. Even an extra $200 savings of per month equals $2400/year and $72,000 over 30 years, the life of the loan.

Realty Insights is Growing Up!

2011-02-02T19:29:00.000-05:00

Yes, it is true! Realty Insights is ready for the next big step--a new name and its own custom domain. Announcing Indy is My Home! You will find the same great content with a more personal point of view, more photos and community information.

We are moving to a new platform--Thesis and a new look New Chapter. When the pieces are in place, we will let you know--and you will automatically be redirected to the new site.

For now, hang in there with us. It will be worth the wait, we promise!

Large Family Home In Haverstick Reduced to $254,900

2011-01-20T10:55:00.000-05:00

Large Family Home in Haverstick – Home features a dramatic entrance along with a 2 Story Family Room. The separate Formal Living Room and Dining Room provide additional areas for the family gatherings. The home includes a separate Office and Great Room. Large well appointed Kitchen includes 42” Cabinets, ceramic backsplash, center-island, desk, and eat-in area. Relax in the Master Bedroom Suite with dual sinks, separate Jacuzzi tub, and vaulted ceiling with plant shelves. The Garage has a 4’ extension so there’s plenty of room for your vehicles and equipment. The finished Basement is wired for surround sound for movie night, along with plenty of extra storage. Relax on the screened in porch overlooking the fenced backyard under the shade of the great trees. Home has been well maintained and is in great shape. A Home Warranty is included.

Discover this Urban Chic Condo Close to Mass Avenue!

2011-01-17T13:16:00.000-05:00

Urban Chic Condo Close to Mass Ave! Enjoy Downtown Living in Historic Lockerbie Glove Company. Dramatic style includes exposed brick walls, cool industrial lighting, wood floors, tall ceilings, and exposed beams. The unblocked views of downtown are gorgeous throughout the year. The condo includes enviable corner parking slot in the secure garage, onsite maintenance, and rooftop deck.

Popular 4th floor offers open view of downtown. Updated kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, thick granite counters, custom cabinets, and a tile floor. High end finishes don’t stop there. The two full baths include a fully tiled floor along with the tub/shower surround. The Master Bedroom features 2 closets and a rich bath with a furniture look sink. Don’t wait on this home, it is priced aggressively! $239,000

Cupcake Wars Birthday Party

2011-01-16T22:10:00.000-05:00

As a Mom to Twins, it is always a challenge to plan a doubly fantastic birthday--and one just after the Christmas holiday. This year, we were inspired by the Food Network show CupCake Wars. The cupcakes created on the show are unusual and beautiful.

We decided to invite friends who would be divided into 2 teams of 4. Each team would be responsible for baking a cupcake from scratch, decorating it, cleaning up the kitchen, and presenting their creations to a guest judge. Each team was given 1 hour to complete their cupcakes. On the show, contestants have 30 minutes. They would be judged on creativity, appearance and taste.

It was easy to find whimsical prizes and take home gifts for the girls. Cupcake banks that could be painted and cupcake charms for a necklace or bracelet came from Oriental Trading Co. Cupcake mini calendars and Cupcake notepads were found at Michaels. Cupcake oven mitts and hot pads were purchased from Target.

The results? A hilarious evening of belly laughs and fun + some delicious cupcakes and some not-so-delicious cupcakes. (Oh, and a very messy kitchen. The clean up criteria did not exactly work out as planned, but my kind husband pitched in, and the work was done.)

All in all, it was a memorable event for my daughters and their friends. One of them commented that this was the best birthday party ever! That was music to my ears.

Things I Wish My Realtor Had Told Me Part 3

2011-01-11T10:54:00.000-05:00

Now it is time for me to weigh in on how to choose the "right" home for you and your family. When I am advising my own clients, here are some ?s and thoughts that I share:

Will this home work for you for the foreseeable future? Does it have the space you need now, but also ample space for the next 5 years? (In the past, the average family moved every 3-5 years. Now that span has increased to every 5-8 years.)

Does the monthly payment fit into your budget? Will you still have the ability to eat out occasionally and go to movies? Will you lose sleep over the payment? In other words, does it feel comfortable to you?

Does the school district fit your family's needs? Think ahead beyond elementary school to middle school, junior high and even high school?

Finally, is the home in an area that would resale well if you are relocated? Hopefully this will be your home for a very long time. In the event, you are offered an amazing job opportunity, you want to be in the position to sell your home. Having a desirable location makes a huge difference in time on the market.

What are your thoughts? Are there other key criteria that are not mentioned here? Feel free to weigh in by leaving a comment.

Choosing the Right Home -- It is not as simple as one might think! Part 2

2011-01-03T12:54:00.002-05:00

Choosing the Right Home--It is not as simple as one might think!

Things I Wish My Realtor Had Told Me Part 2

What kind of Home Buyer are you? Are you an Emotional Buyer? You know when you walk into the right home you will just "know" it? You are confident you will have a strong feeling that the home is right.

Are you instead a Logical Buyer? You weigh the Pros and Cons and decide on the home that has the most Pros?

Or are You an Ego Buyer? The more prestigious the address, the more the home appeals to you. The size of the home matters as well as the entrance to the neighborhood and the look of the surrounding homes. The home must have high end appliances and finishes.

Are you a Family-Oriented Buyer? You care more about the sizes of the children's bedrooms and play spaces than the Master Bedroom. You are drawn to larger yards and neighborhoods where swing sets and playgrounds proliferate. Strong Schools are vitally important.

One of my past clients, Josie, is now moving again. Sadly she and her family are now living out of state so they will be working with another Realtor. Josie generously shared from her own experience.

"Things I'd like to know from a realtor: SCHOOLS, SCHOOLS, SCHOOLS!!! It's hard to pinpoint a location you'd like if you know nothing about the schools in the area. Neighbors: what can you tell me about them? Do the homes give you any idea? We're moving again and elementary schools and neighbors are 2 HUGE things on our list of helping us find an area! Love that you're doing this list. Will check back later. :)"

The Cost Conscious Buyer--getting the best deal is the determining factor. These buyers want the least expensive home in the neighborhood. Fixer uppers, short sales, pre-foreclosures, and bank-owned properties are all appealing to this buyer.

What other factors affect a Buyer's home buying decision? Add your thoughts here---

Things I Wish My Realtor Had Told Me Part 1

2010-12-29T23:15:00.003-05:00

After Buying a Home or After Selling Your Home, are there certain things you wished your Realtor had told you? To head off those "If I had Only Knowns" here is my series on Things I Wish My Realtor Had Told Me.

Let's start with some simple things and move into to the more complex.

1. In the winter when there is snow or ice, wear boots to look at homes. Some homes will be vacant, and the snow/ice may not have been shoveled. The footing may be challenging especially if you are wearing sneakers or lighter footwear. Ideally, wear shoes that you can slip on and off easily but will still provide some traction.

2. Dress in layers. If a home is in foreclosure, a short sale or bank owned, there may be no heat. In colder climates, the inside of the house may equal the outside and be very chilly. Dress warmly, so that you can thoroughly see the homes and not be run out because of the cold.

3. Bring bottled water along. This is especially helpful if you will be touring homes for more than a few hours. Staying hydrated will help your stamina.

4. Consider bringing your own camera or video recorder. The photos featured in the mls may be an accurate representation of the homes you will see, or they may distort the home--positively or negatively. In those cases, it is helpful to take some shots to help you remember the property as you saw it.

5. Take notes as you tour the homes. You may think that you will easily remember the homes, but after 4 or 5 homes, the details will not be as clear.

6. Try to keep a ranking of the homes from #1-3. Those will be the most important homes for you. The others can be forgotten. (Let your Realtor keep track of that info for you if needed later.)

Next ... Choosing the Right Home.

Have other ideas for this list? Feel free to leave your comments.

Stunning 4 Bedroom Townhome with a Courtyard View!

2010-12-28T12:50:00.002-05:00

Immaculate, Neutral & Ready for You!!

Offered at $242,000

Enjoy extras like stainless steel appliances, high tech wiring for premium sound, extensive trim, and hardwoods. A 4th Bedroom and Family Room offer super flexible space. A Bright Great Room has a large open area and gas fireplace. The Master Suite offers a huge walk-in closet, soaking tub, and separate shower, plus striking raised sinks. An attached 2 car garage shelters you and your car from the cold. Easy access to shopping, US31, Downtown Indy, and the Airport.

Home for the Holidays

2010-12-22T07:10:00.000-05:00

Share the Warmth of a Light-Filled Home

As we anticipate gathering with family and friends to celebrate the holidays, the focus frequently turns to home--to favorite traditions. Is your home a place that reflects hospitality and warmth? Are there certain traditions that you and your family cherish?

I find that especially during the holidays, I am aware of the "senses" my home provides. The sense of smell is tantalized with lightly fragranced candles, a crackling fire and hot spiced cider. These scents immediately create a relaxing atmosphere and define the time as something special.

The sense of sight is equally important. The soft glow of candles can subtly encourage more intimate conversation. The glow from a chandelier and Christmas tree add sparkle and sets the gathering apart. Children especially are enchanted by the allure of lights and magical quality that they provide.

Touch is equally important. An extra soft chenille throw or thick wool wrap lends texture to the room and invites guests to sink into the furniture and wrap themselves with warmth. By providing comfort items like these, you are communicating that they truly are welcome guests.

Hearing beautiful music--either instrumental or with lyrics speaks directly to the heart, conjuring memories of past holidays. Sometimes we are not even aware why we are so relaxed or nostalgic. I suspect that music plays a big part in creating those sensations.

The last sense--taste is the one that might first come to mind when one thinks of the holidays. Food is a central part of many celebrations perhaps because it incorporates so many of the senses. Certain dishes prepared the same way each year take us back to childhood and to the wonder of the season that we experienced as a child.

I am trying to be more intentional this year as I try to create a Christmas that will be memorable for all. I encourage you too to think about the setting that you are creating in your home and to do those little things that make such a huge difference.

Merry Christmas to you. May you have a joyful, sense-filled celebration!

Stunning 4 Bedroom Townhome with a Courtyard View! Immaculate, Neutral & Ready for You!!

2010-12-13T14:56:00.001-05:00

818 Ivy Lane, Carmel, Indiana

Enjoy extras like stainless steel appliances, high tech wiring for premium sound, extensive trim, and hardwoods. A 4th Bedroom and Family Room offer super flexible space. A Bright Great Room has a large open area and gas fireplace. The Master Suite offers a huge walk-in closet, soaking tub, and separate shower, plus striking raised sinks. An attached 2 car garage shelters you and your car from the cold. Easy access to shopping, US31, Downtown Indy, and the Airport.

A Christmas Wish for You--White Christmas

2010-12-10T23:09:00.001-05:00

White Christmas by Vanguard, an A Capella Group

Have you been watching The Sing Off on NBC? All of the music groups on the show have been fabulous. The first season was wonderful, but this season certainly raises the bar. I love A Capella music. One of my favorite A Capella groups is Vanguard. Vanguard is a 4 person A Capella group--all of the music is from their voices and hands (finger snaps, claps). Their music is brilliant and highly entertaining.

Here is one of their songs that I wanted to share as a Christmas wish for you! For much of the United States that wish will come true.

Christmas in the Village Zionsville

2010-12-02T22:14:00.001-05:00

The Joy of life in a small Village. The Merchants and Townspeople of Zionsville open their arms each year to share the warmth of an old fashioned Christmas. A Christmas Parade, free horse drawn carriage rides, and miniature train rides for children are just some of the joys to be found. This video depicts Christmas in the Village. Snow fell and the stage was set. Enjoy!!

This year's Christmas in the Village will be celebrated December 4th and 5th. Bring your family to enjoy this festive and charming event.

Thanks to John Maler for sharing this video.

Tips for Shopping and Events in Indy

2010-11-24T15:10:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year when there is a nip in the air and the occasional snowflake flying. Thanksgiving is tomorrow and the anticipation of excited shoppers is growing. The Lighting of the World's Largest Christmas Tree will take place on Friday, November 26, 2010. Monument Circle in the heart of the Indianapolis Downtown will be transformed into a magical wonderland. The Tree (actually the Victory Statue 285 feet tall is transformed by an impressive array of nearly 5,000 of lights) is lit by one lucky child to kick off the holiday season. Elegant horse drawn carriages circle the downtown. Choirs and singing groups from all over the region have auditioned to perform in the Circle of Lights, an outdoor extravaganza that is performed on Monument Circle. It is a very festive time that is free to the public. Usually there is a chill to the air and some snow each year to delight the young and young at heart. The event is televised locally, but if you have the opportunity to drive down to be a part of event, it is well worth your time. One year, there were even chestnuts roasting over an open fire to lend an old world feel to the event.

The lighting of the tree is donated each year by the Electrical Workers of the IBEW 481. Countless hours are spent stringing 52 strands of garlands of light.

For shoppers, wonderful opportunities abound. Check out Gabrielle's list at Haute in the Heartland for some ideas. Gabrielle includes some hotspots downtown as well as shopping destinations north.
http://hauteintheheartland.blogspot.com/2010/11/your-indy-guide-to-black-friday-deals.html

What are your plans? Any favorite sites you would like to share? A special spot where you travel each year to select the perfect Christmas tree? Feel free to comment here.

(Celebration of Lights photo courtesy of Indianapolis Downtown. www.indydt.com)

A Letter From Santa

2010-11-17T14:09:00.001-05:00

Wooded Retreat--A Perfect Sanctuary Reduced to $470,000

2010-11-09T09:41:00.000-05:00

A winding drive leads to this Cape Cod home on 3 private acres. Enjoy the beauty of nature, peace and quiet in your own retreat. The home has space for everyone including a large company-size kitchen with brick hearth and fireplace. Hardwood floors add a warm glow throughout most of the first floor. A two story Great Room is light-filled with windows on 3 walls offering views of the woods beyond. A first floor den provides a cozy space for smaller gatherings. The master suite is indeed special with a private balcony, fireplace and furniture-look double sinks. The basement is finished and a walkout with a raised hearth fireplace, space for exercise and a study. There is also unfinished space for storage.

The Colts--Indy Loves Our Team

2010-11-04T22:40:00.001-04:00

This photo is located in the public domain

It is November, and the Colts are back on top of the AFC South. Ahh, that is a great feeling. Colts fans have been spoiled by our team's consistency in producing great starts to the football season and making a run at a perfect season. This year started differently--with a loss in Game 1 to the Houston Texans. But the good news is that the Colts are still the Colts. Tony Dungy's work ethic is still in place. Whenever a player goes out due to injury, another player is ready to take his place. Each one plays wholeheartedly. And Peyton is well, Peyton. The Sheriff, as the MNF commentators referred to him Monday night. Peyton is finally receiving the accolades that he deserves. "His practices are unlike any I have ever seen. Peyton runs them and is completely in charge." (paraphrased)

Why do I mention the Colts in a blog on Realty Insights? The Colts provide a rallying point for our community. Clinton Kelly of TLC's What Not to Wear was in Indy recently for a book tour. When asked about the fashion he saw in Indy, he commented that everyone everywhere he looked was wearing a Colts jersey. He was amazed. At my office, every Friday is Blue Friday. All of the staff and agents are encouraged to wear their Colts gear. And we are not the only ones. It is like the whole city is part of a special club. A club that believes in the good guys--the guys that win or lose won't let us down. They will give it their all and make their city proud.

What else can I say? I am fortunate to be a Colts Fan.

Your Home is For Sale--Do You Decorate for Halloween?

2010-10-19T21:09:00.000-04:00

Home Matters is an Indy Home Staging Company. They recently posted some helpful guidelines for decorating in the Fall if your home is on the market. Take a look:

Halloween Decorating while your house is "FOR SALE".

It is tempting to want to decorate for the holiday. While some decoration is OK and expected, going over-the-top can damage the sale. Instead try some of these suggestions to Happy Halloween while selling your home.

Keep it Simple; Choose a single theme and then work within the confines of that theme. Don't try to combine vampires, witches, tombstones and gargoyles all on the front porch.
Remember your audience; It might be spook-ta-cu-lar and thrilling to create a murder-suicide theme with taped outlines of the dead body, but is this really a good idea pushing this theme during your home's sales event? Too much of a scare won't help buyers warm up to the property at all. Something to think about!
Don't be so Literal with color; Let the seasonal color palette inspire you. Instead of decorating halloween specific, consider adopting the color theme only. You will still feel festive while keeping you home neutral for buyers.

Just remember to have fun, but don' frighten your buyers away!

Thanks to Home Matters for sharing their tips. Visit them at http://www.homemattersllc.com/

Immaculate, Elegant, and Ready For You! $319,900 - Carmel

2010-10-18T13:21:00.000-04:00

Immaculate, elegant and ready for you! A bright and beautiful kitchen with new granite sparkles with recently updated cabinets. An inviting 3 season porch leads to an expansive deck overlooking evergreens, serviceberry & magnolia. Warm Family Room features a raised hearth fireplace. Working from home is a pleasure in the 1st floor den. Generous bedrooms provide room for all, while a finished basement offers flexible space. Homes are selling fast in this friendly neighborhood. Don't wait! Community Pool &

Tennis Court

Designed To Impress!

2010-10-12T14:20:00.000-04:00

Impressive Home With A View!

$799,900

Oak Ridge in Zionsville

From a Leaded Glass entry to a spectacular Great Room, this home is Designed to Impress! The 28 foot ceiling is lit by 6 floor-to-ceiling windows. A Grand Main Floor Master has views of the pond and fountain. The kitchen is a chef’s delight. It features custom cherry cabinetry, walk-in pantry, pro Jenn Air gas cooktop with 4 burners, 2 full size ovens and a Bosch dishwasher. The Upstairs include 3 oversized bedrooms – with the smallest measuring a large 16’x13’. A hard to find walkout basement has gorgeous daylight windows, a gym worthy workout area, 2 additional bedrooms and a home theater space. One of the last and newest homes built in Oak Ridge.

Gracious Living + Easy Care = Perfection

2010-10-06T11:00:00.000-04:00

Gracious Living + Easy Care = Perfection. Lawn Care included. Just Move In and Enjoy! Over 1,800 square feet includes a sun drenched Sunroom, Great Room with hardwood floors and stone fireplace, and a Den with custom bookcases and bench. Cathedral ceilings throughout the home enhance the spaciousness. The Kitchen is well designed and features extra maple glazed cabinets and Corian counters. Basket weave pulls, stainless appliances, under & above cabinet lighting add elegance. The Master Suite is large and includes a cathedral ceiling. The walk-in closet has custom built-ins. His & Her sinks are in raised counters, and are accented by bronze finishes. A separate Laundry Room has extra storage with additional cabinets. A Storage Room offers additional space.

Large Family Home In Haverstick

2010-10-06T10:54:00.000-04:00

Brown County, Indiana --The Perfect Place for Fall Outings!

2010-10-04T19:32:00.001-04:00

An oasis for Artists, Potters, and Crafts People, Brown County is a treasure trove of small shops, restaurants and gorgeous views. Billed as Indiana's Largest Outdoor Playground, Brown County is located in Southern Indiana, about 1 hour south of Indianapolis and near Bloomington, home of Indiana University.

We took a spontaneous trip to Brown County the last weekend of September. The leaves were just showing hints of color, so we were hopeful that the visitors there would be few. As we approached the town from the north, we could see lines of cars making their way to Nashville, the heart of Brown County. The streets were packed with people of all ages, many of them already buying gifts and decorations for their homes. On one street corner, a young man and woman were playing a lively tune on violins. On another, a portly gentleman was belting out a Johnny Cash tune.

White horse drawn carriages clip clopped down the streets. A train (no tracks required) carried passengers through the town at a faster pace. Smells of freshly prepared fudge filled the air, and old fashioned candies abounded. My daughters delighted in plastic tubes that could be filled with their choice of colored powdered sugars--some sweet and some sour. (I know sugar is not the best choice, but you are only a child once, right?)

I snapped a photo of these unusual birds made out of gourds. They were well crafted. The smallest were priced at $13.95 and the largest were $19.95. The birds were made by artist Daniel Moore.

October is normally the busiest time of the year in Brown County. Some highlights are Back Roads of Brown County Driving Tour, Log Cabin Tours, Artist Workshop Tours, and Exploring Lovely Brown County State Park. If you do go, be sure to have a fried biscuit with apple butter for me!

Crooked Stick Premier Location – Reduced to $360,000

2010-10-01T12:05:00.000-04:00

Outstanding setting on prestigious Crooked Stick Golf Course. Gorgeous tree lined 1.1 acre lot offers wooded privacy and golf course views. Remove the existing home to build your dream home or remodel to reflect your style. Take advantage of this premier lot!