I often have conversations with buyers about buying a "fixer upper" and remodeling when talking about homes for sale in Indiana. Of course, if you are going to buy Indianapolis land and build...you don't have to worry about this topic! But...for everyone else...who owns a home built prior to 1978 or is considering remodeling one, you need to know about the new law that went into effect in April. Even older Geist waterfront homes can have peeling paint issues that now beckons professional attention! As of April 22, 2010, contractors and professionals have an obligation to follow new federal guidelines to protect all occupants, but in particular...children. Find these new guidelines and information at 2010leadlaw.com.. The impact of this law is far reaching for contractors, paints, and individuals in the renovation industry as they must be specially trained and this will like cause increased costs for the consumer. What is important to note is that it doesn't matter if paint is involved or not...this new law applies to all renovations on homes/buildings built prior to 1978. Contractors can face stiff fines if they do not adhere to the new law! Take a look now so that you can take this into consideration as you watch late night HGTV and dream about your home projects! Happy Painting!This week, I had two clients in from out of town. One was scheduled and one surprised me by a quick visit in. So, in my juggling, I ran back and forth across town, showing Geist Properties all the way over to the west side. In addition to clients this week, I had my monthly meeting and some super Indianapolis real estate training as I am a candidate in Mibor's REAL (Real Estate Academy of Leadership) Class. We met this week. We enjoyed great speakers this week and a visit to the Indiana State Museum. As I was scooting back to the north side for a showing, the horrible happened...bump, bump, rumble, rumble...a flat tire! I was in the middle lane driving 70 (okay...I was in a hurry) and had to change lanes and find a safe place to pull over on the shoulder. I'm married to an Eagle Scout, (Always Be Prepared) so I pulled the air compressor that plugs into my cigarette-lighter-thingy out of my glove box. Great idea but the tire was shot! So, I called AAA...another great idea but they said it would be an hour...even with a priority call! I called my husband so he knew what was going on and I waited.
It wasn't long before a semi truck pulled over in front of me. The nicest gentleman walked back to see if he could help me....and he did. He got my jack and spare out and in short order had me ready to go again! I tried to "help" but he pointed out I was going to get greasy...and he was helping a "damsel in distress." Lucky me! in a short amount of time, I was zipping towards my showing appointment.
I started thinking about how fortunate I am to have an Indianapolis real estate career. Truly, a city full of friendly people, who "pay it forward." Many years ago, before the days of cell phones, I was working remote in Indianapolis for my Chicago based sales career. I was on the way to the airport to return to Chicago, tired after a busy week when I had a flat in my rental car on ANOTHER Indy highway. As I stood at the side of that highway trying to figure out what to do (no cell phone in those days) a limousine pulled over...that gentleman moved my suitcases to his limo, transported me to my rental car counter at the airport, and gave me a lecture about getting in stranger's cars! Once again, another great experience with friendly people in Indianapolis.
So, as I was looking at a really great Geist house this week...I was reminded that Indianapolis is more than just a pretty face...we have great people too. And after all, isn't that what makes a "house" a "home?"
It wasn't long before a semi truck pulled over in front of me. The nicest gentleman walked back to see if he could help me....and he did. He got my jack and spare out and in short order had me ready to go again! I tried to "help" but he pointed out I was going to get greasy...and he was helping a "damsel in distress." Lucky me! in a short amount of time, I was zipping towards my showing appointment.
I started thinking about how fortunate I am to have an Indianapolis real estate career. Truly, a city full of friendly people, who "pay it forward." Many years ago, before the days of cell phones, I was working remote in Indianapolis for my Chicago based sales career. I was on the way to the airport to return to Chicago, tired after a busy week when I had a flat in my rental car on ANOTHER Indy highway. As I stood at the side of that highway trying to figure out what to do (no cell phone in those days) a limousine pulled over...that gentleman moved my suitcases to his limo, transported me to my rental car counter at the airport, and gave me a lecture about getting in stranger's cars! Once again, another great experience with friendly people in Indianapolis.
So, as I was looking at a really great Geist house this week...I was reminded that Indianapolis is more than just a pretty face...we have great people too. And after all, isn't that what makes a "house" a "home?"
Every so often, a really special home comes along in Indy Real Estate. This is one of those homes...a few years ago, the couple building the home did an exhaustive search of Indianapolis Land for Sale and picked a really special 2+ acre lot in the Willows in Zionsville. Well known home designer, Steve Goldberg designed this fabulous 6 bedroom home with phenomenal living spaces. With southern exposure streaming in the back floor to ceiling windows and soaring 14 foot ceilings...this is a home that will live well...
Bet you're intrigued and want to find more about Indiana New Home Construction...visit this home's website at www.4077WildwoodCt.com. You'll want to check this one out, it truly one of a kind...Indy Real Estate has a lot to offer!
Bet you're intrigued and want to find more about Indiana New Home Construction...visit this home's website at www.4077WildwoodCt.com. You'll want to check this one out, it truly one of a kind...Indy Real Estate has a lot to offer!
I often work with clients considering a move to Indianapolis as they are looking at jobs in Indianapolis and as a result will get many questions regarding the quality of life here. Although, I was not born and raised here, I feel like nearly twenty years of living here has made me some what of an expert! For years, I have watched our local residents get involved...in the community, in the state, and in the world. Philanthropy is alive and well in Indianapolis! Our local hospitals have opened their doors to surgeon training for developing nations for years. If you were to peek in one of our operating rooms, you might find a surgeon from Central America getting an education from one of our local surgeons on the specifics of a procedure.
I worked in our local operating rooms for many years (in medical sales) and as a result, continue to know a fair amount about jobs in Indianapolis in these fields. So, if you're coming to work in an area hospital...I'd be happy to help you find the right fit for you in regards to Indiana Houses for sale. In my tenure in the operating room, I often enjoyed interpreting for the surgeons...it was a great way to get involved in local philanthropy.
I worked in our local operating rooms for many years (in medical sales) and as a result, continue to know a fair amount about jobs in Indianapolis in these fields. So, if you're coming to work in an area hospital...I'd be happy to help you find the right fit for you in regards to Indiana Houses for sale. In my tenure in the operating room, I often enjoyed interpreting for the surgeons...it was a great way to get involved in local philanthropy.
Recently, I was working with some nice people in search of Carmel Indiana Real Estate. They had lived the last several years in Mexico. One of their questions as they got to know Indy Real Estate revolved around food...specifically...Mexican Food....a favorite of mine! We have so many great little Mexican restaurants in town (I lived in Arizona and California...trust me...I'm picky!) that I had several to share. A recent favorite of mine was introduced to me by one of my children's teachers who comes from San Luis Potosi, Mexico. It's called "El Pastorcito" and is located on the south west corner of Michigan Road and 79th Street. I love it! It's a favorite place to take my "gringo" friends and I enjoy picking up pico de gallo when I have a hankering for Mexican food at home. They've got English on their menu now so for those of you who don't speak Spanish...it just got easier. It not fancy..just really great food...I love seeing all the natives coming into eat...a sure sign of an authentic restaurant. Introduce yourself if you see me!
This morning, I had a chance to sit down with some prospective sellers and chat about Indy Real Estate. I had recently sold a home in their neighborhood and are considering a move closer to family out west. Their neighbors home sold in 6 days so they wanted to know what it would take to sell quickly. We talked about what they would need to do compete with Indianapolis new homes as well as current listings in their neighborhood. They will be first time sellers so it was important to take time to really explain the process of selling. We also needed to talk about what they "wanted" for their home as well as what was reality. When I left, they had plenty to think about as they slow down over the holidays. They will be ready to join Indianapolis real estate for sale right after after the first of the year.
A special home has come to market! Fabulous ranch with full finished basement. Sun room. Lake views. Low maintenance option. Sun drenched windows. You can't build it for this! Take a look, there are many homes for sale in Indianapolis but "the cream always rises to the top!" If you're considering making a purchase of Indiana real estate and want to be on the west side of town, this home is worth a look! Brownsburg schools, and quick access to Indy...this home is a perfect ten!
660 Humingbird Dr, Brownsburg, IN 46112 Check out more photos here!
It's that magical time of year! The grass is green, the pools are open and the kids are getting out of school. If you are thinking about real estate in Carmel Indiana or one of our other suburbs, it's a great time to find a home! Home prices Indianapolis are reasonable and Indianapolis keeps getting rated and one of the most afforadable cities. I'd have to say it's true! It'a a great time to relocate to Indianapolis and a great time to find a new home and enjoy the summer in it! I have clients closing on a great home in Brownsburg in just a couple of weeks and they can't wait to enjoy the pool in their new yard! There are plenty of wonderful Indiana houses for sale so when you're ready...jump in...the water is perfect!
I had a great day with some buyers getting to know Indy this week. We spent the fay lookin at Hamilton County Indiana homes. They wanted to get to know Geist homes and the understand the nuances being living on an inlet, a full body view, boat slips, and what made one home a good buy verus another. We took a look at more than one dozen Geist homes for sale and I am confident they are leaving town with a better understanding about Indiana homes for sale. They are about to be empty nesters, so this home is going to be 'all about the two of them'...what a delight...their enthusiasm is contagious! There is plenty of inventory to consider and once again, price and condition really play off each other. Mr. Buyer (a goofy real estate term) noticed that many homes could use a little love and attention for the price point. Mr. and Mrs. Seller...put your best foot forward! While the agent fiddles with the lock box, the buyers take it all in, and they notice weeds and trim that needs to be painted! Even when you have fantastic water views like the picture above...your home needs to show pride of ownership and "move in condition." Gorgeous sunny days like ahead and the time is perfect to get out there and find the perfect home...enjoy!
When you are looking for charm, character and fabulous schools you need to take a look at life in Zionsville. The village of Zionsville is small enough to be quaint and big enough for great restaurants and darling shops. Just a few miles west of the village, a really darling home has come on the market on a quiet tree lined street. Zionsville real estate continues to be a nice buy and this home is no exception! Take a look at what it offers! It has been fabulously redone with bamboo hardwood floors, a killer kitchen with custom cabinets, a full finished basement and an awesome yard! You'll love the life here. Buyers have lots to chose from on the market today and the really great homes won't last forever. If you've been following real estate news then you know that it is a good time to check out life in Zionsville, Indiana!
What a great month May is in Indianapolis and if you are new to town...welcome! If you are considering joining us as "Hoosiers" it is a great time to do so! There are wonderful homes for sale in Indianapolis, and plenty to do in town...this is a great place to be. The month of May is a favorite around here, our popular MiniMarathon kicked off the month just a few weeks ago and tons of events going on at the track. If fact, someone was just talking to me about "Carb Day" coming up on Friday...that is a racing term...not a food festival! Today was a favorite day in town...Keep Indianapolis Beautiful day with hundreds of volunteers from Eli Lilly spreading out across the city to clean up parks, plant gardens at schools, pick up trash along roads and generally brighten the whole city! The Lilly volunteers were easy to spot in their red shirts! I enjoyed a day of gardening at the International School as a parent volunteer working with Lilly volunteers and tons of kids! I had a great conversation about Indianapolis Careers with a couple of parents and helped get a really nice natural garden dug out and planted around the school's sign towards the entrance. In the midst of this, I was negotiating an offer for a buyer moving to town from North Carolina. These particular buyers are pretty excited about what Zionsville real estate has to offer. Lots to do in town...last night we enjoyed the classic sounds of Elton John and Billy Joel after a great dinner out in downtown Indy! Community Service, great food, the arts and entertainment, and the racing capital of the world..Indianapolis is a great place to live...if you have the opportunty...jump at the chance to relocate to Indiana!
No, no and no! There are lots of Indiana homes for sale and sellers breathe a sigh of relief when their home is sold...no more doing a mad cleaning dash through the home with two hours notice...no more throwing the kids in the car and driving around the block for an hour...no more fear of cooking salmon for dinner and having a "stinky fish house." Most sellers feel the weight of the world when the contract is signed and the sold sign has gone up! And it is a really great thing to gain back some normalcy...but be ware! The next step of negotiation is the inspection ( a future blog!) and the home still has to have an acceptable appraisal. Some sellers get a little lax and feel like they can let things go...not a smart choice! Let me share a story from a recent transaction.
I looked at lots of Indiana real estate with a family relocating to central Indiana. We found a really nice home and were soon under contract. There were hundreds of homes for sale in Indianapolis and chose one that suited the needs of their large family. The home was large, and clean and felt "move in." This was important to them as they have 4 children under the age of 6 and one more on the way. Well, inspection day rolled around and my buyers and the inspector got there before me. I received a frantic call from "Mrs. Buyer" telling me there was "poop, urine and vomit everywhere." I told her I was on my way and called the list agent to ask what on earth was going on with the seller. I repeated what Mrs. Buyer told me and he asked "human or animal?" Great question! I was so shocked, I hadn't even asked... Long story short (and without all the stinky details) the dog had been sick everywhere, and nervous, and dishes had not been done in more than a week, and there was food waste everywhere...the seller just let the house go because it was sold...not smart! Even the inspector was shocked and he sees a lot of amazing things! My buyers were distraught and ready to walk...they were disgusted and thought about not buying the home because of the condition...but could they? Could they get out of the contract based on condition? You bet! In the Indiana Purchase Agreement there is a line that says "Sellers shall maintain the property in it's present condition until delivered to the buyer." (Lines 87, 88). Believe me, it didn't look like that when we wrote the offer! That means this seller was in breach of contract as the condition had radically changed. Outside of the shocking condition, mechanically the home was sound...one minor dryer vent fix that probably was a $25 fix. But, because of the disgusting (an unsafe) condition, we negotiated a professional cleaning and black lighting/carpet cleaning upon closing. It ended up costing the seller about $1500.00 instead of just fixing the dryer vent. The list agent did a great job working through the seller side of the issue and together we saved the deal...but it was painful! Painful for the seller because $1500.00 was a lot of money to resolve their mistake to buyer satisfaction and painful for the buyer because of the way the home was treated while under contract! They are meticulous homeowners and genuinely feared for the health of their baby crawling around on the floors.
So, if you've sold your home...congratulations! But don't forget to continue to care for it they way you'd want it cared for if YOU were the new buyer!Hello blog world friends!
It probably seems I've fallen in a hole...it's been a bit...the truth is...the market is really heating up and homes are selling in Indy! Really! If you're looking for Carmel Indiana real estate or Zionsville real estate...we should talk! There are really nice opportunities on the market
for qualified buyers and it is becoming a good time to be a seller too....I wanted to show you a darling ranch home in Zionsville. This one listed recently and will not last long on the market. Bamboo floors, new custom kitchen, new master bath, and one bedroom turned into a to-die-for dressing room! All on a full finished basement with a large lot. Can you believe it? It will be open this weekend from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday so if you have interest in Zionsville Homes for Sale...come take a look.
You can see more of this wonderful home by visiting it's webbsite ....MyHomeOnEaglewood.com. It's a value at $239,000.00!
It probably seems I've fallen in a hole...it's been a bit...the truth is...the market is really heating up and homes are selling in Indy! Really! If you're looking for Carmel Indiana real estate or Zionsville real estate...we should talk! There are really nice opportunities on the market
for qualified buyers and it is becoming a good time to be a seller too....I wanted to show you a darling ranch home in Zionsville. This one listed recently and will not last long on the market. Bamboo floors, new custom kitchen, new master bath, and one bedroom turned into a to-die-for dressing room! All on a full finished basement with a large lot. Can you believe it? It will be open this weekend from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday so if you have interest in Zionsville Homes for Sale...come take a look. You can see more of this wonderful home by visiting it's webbsite ....MyHomeOnEaglewood.com. It's a value at $239,000.00!
I often get asked by prospective sellers what they need to do to get their home ready to sell. My answer? It depends! There are lots of Indiana Homes for Sale so it is important to show well in your market and in your price point. A few years ago, buyers were more forgiving...they'd walk in, look at tired wall paper, stained carpet, and worn out appliances and say "no problem we can do it!" Those days have changed and if you want to maximize your selling price it is important your home is seen as move-in condition...at any selling price, your carpet should be cleaned, your walls should not show scuff marks and your paint should look fresh. You can buy paint for less than $20.00 a gallon so there is no reason to have tired walls. What about counter tops...I get asked all the time..."do I need granite?" Again...it depends! What is typical in your market at the price? If I looked at $140,000 Fishers homes for Sale, I'd find very little granite...so I'd tell you that you don't need to put it in to sell, although if you have it, a buyer would be thrilled. Now, if I'm looking at a $600,000 home in Carmel Indiana...I'd tell you that you can't go to market with your 15 year old Formica counter tops and original appliances (yes! I understand they work just fine!) with out taking a significant hit. Besides, you'll love how some minor changes make your home shine! Take a look at a couple of these photos, this family is contemplating a new home and will have one to sell, it's a great home, they've raised their family in it, and there are a few things to do if they go to market...so, they started with the kitchen! Out went the formica and the old appliances and in came the new. Their gorgeous cherry cabinets got a face lift with some new knobs and an awesome tile backsplash. 
They are thrilled with the results, and the best part...they get to enjoy it today as they consider if they want to jump in to Zionsville real estate. Contemplating selling? If you want to know what you need to go to market and get the most for your home...give me a call! I'd be happy to look at your home with "buyer's eyes."
Here are the number I promised for Carmel, Fishers, and Zionsville. Take a look at what is happening with homes in Indianapolis. If you'd like more detail about your market or your price range...give me a call or send me an email...I'd be glad to help! As you can see, the real estate market is heating up!
This seems to be the question I get wherever I go...at the post office, at my kids' schools, but especially when I walk in to talk with a potential seller about their home. Indiana real estate is experiencing some softness to the market, but not like other parts of the country! I met with a potential seller last week and we discussed Carmel homes for sale and where his would rank compared to inventory currently on the market. He was telling me about his condo in Florida...he owes more on it that he can sell it for...by more than 2x! Holy cow! That is much worse than what is going on here in Indiana...lucky for him, Carmel real estate is looking better than the community in Florida that is home to his condo. STILL...price and condition determine whether or not you get a sale! The buyers are pickier out there....they aren't paying top dollar for your tired, builder grade worn out carpet! Sprucing up, fresh paint, and at the minimum a visit from a carpet cleaner will pay off...so...to help answer the question what is going on in real estate, I am going to pull monthly numbers and post to my blog...so you can see what is going on in some of our Indianapolis suburbs...I'm happy to include others...just email me and ask me! Obviously, these will be numbers reflective of overall activity in the community for the month...if you'd like a specific price range...email me! I'd be happy to tighten the numbers for your specific scenario. In the meantime, you'll know "what's going on in the real estate market!" Check back tomorrow...Every so often, a really special property comes along...take a look at this one. Gorgeous ranch custom built by a landmark Indianapolis builder, for his personal residence. 
s Seated on nearly 5 acres. A pond that engulfs nearly 1.25 acres (with a fountain!) and an outbuilding with inlaw quarters. The view from the porch off the kitchen will make you think of the setting of "On Golden Pond." There is a dock and summer evenings are spent on the paddleboat out on the pond. Since it is a private pond on the property, there is need to worry about running into the neighbors! The finishes in this home are to die for and if you are onsidering an Indianapolis relocation, you should consider living on the west side of town. An easy commute in to Indy, if you need too, you simply get significant value for your money. Homes in Indianapolis are a great value right now and this home is no exception, it is appointed with the best of everything and is move in condition.
This home feature's a chef's kitchen, multiple fireplaces, a luxurious master suite and a knock out finished lower level. Masterfully crafted and tastefully appointed...it it is fabulous.
I know you'll want to see more, so visit this home on the web, and then call me for an appointment. You'll love it.
Check out the views from the sunroom below...you will enjoy your own private sanctuary, yet can easily be downtown in a mere twenty minutes! What an opportunity and what a great buy for the discerning buyer! This
is a once in a lifetime home situated on an estate parcel! Plan on time to walk the grounds when you visit...you're going to fall in love. Want to know more about life in Avon? Visit the town's website to learn more about Avon. It's a great place for schools, restaurants, shopping, awesome parks and overall great quality of life! Avon is growing and it's residents rave about life there. Shouldn't you check out what life is like on the west side of Indianapolis when considering homes for sale in Indiana?
contributed by, Laura Heigl
s Seated on nearly 5 acres. A pond that engulfs nearly 1.25 acres (with a fountain!) and an outbuilding with inlaw quarters. The view from the porch off the kitchen will make you think of the setting of "On Golden Pond." There is a dock and summer evenings are spent on the paddleboat out on the pond. Since it is a private pond on the property, there is need to worry about running into the neighbors! The finishes in this home are to die for and if you are onsidering an Indianapolis relocation, you should consider living on the west side of town. An easy commute in to Indy, if you need too, you simply get significant value for your money. Homes in Indianapolis are a great value right now and this home is no exception, it is appointed with the best of everything and is move in condition.This home feature's a chef's kitchen, multiple fireplaces, a luxurious master suite and a knock out finished lower level. Masterfully crafted and tastefully appointed...it it is fabulous. I know you'll want to see more, so visit this home on the web, and then call me for an appointment. You'll love it.
Check out the views from the sunroom below...you will enjoy your own private sanctuary, yet can easily be downtown in a mere twenty minutes! What an opportunity and what a great buy for the discerning buyer! This
is a once in a lifetime home situated on an estate parcel! Plan on time to walk the grounds when you visit...you're going to fall in love. Want to know more about life in Avon? Visit the town's website to learn more about Avon. It's a great place for schools, restaurants, shopping, awesome parks and overall great quality of life! Avon is growing and it's residents rave about life there. Shouldn't you check out what life is like on the west side of Indianapolis when considering homes for sale in Indiana?contributed by, Laura Heigl
Fat
Tuesday rolled around last week, and we knew we couldn't help our kids homework done AND make it to New Orleans for the celebration so we opted to take a cooking class N'Awlins style at The Grillmasters Garden right in the heart of the Village of Zionsville. Zionsville real estate remains a good buy in these economic times, because of great schools, nice homes, a desirable location and really fun things to do! We joined 14 others in the private dining location as Chef Angell cooked up fabulous creations...on a grill! Crawfish Etouffe, Jamablaya, and Banana's Foster were all on the menu and were cooked on a gas grill. A flite of beer was available for sampling but I am more of a wine girl! It was outstanding! Zionsville homes remain popular Indianapolis properties! The Village holds a lot of charm and you would find a mix of new custom homes as well as rehabbed historic homes within walking distance of Main Street. If you think you want to relocate to Indiana, the town of Zionsville should be a consideration...plenty to do as well as a nice place to live!
If you've been shopping Zionsville homes for sale, you'll want to take a look at this home which just listed in Zionsville! I often have people asking me for "great basements" but it is difficult to get in Zionsville for under $300k. So take a look at this one! Wonderful 4 bed home on a lot with gorgeous mature landscaping and move in condition! Private main floor office, formal living room, spacious family room with fireplace and a full basement with loads of living space! A full bath as well as kitchen/bar await you downstairs! Take a look at the picture below...that is the basement....WOW! All for $245k! Unbelievable...this is one to come see! If you are thinking you want to relocate to Indiana, Zionsville should be on your radar screen to check out! Great schools, quaint downtown, and wonderful neighborhoods...this one offers a pool, tennis courts, basketball courts and a community center! You'll love easy access to I-65 and being only 20 minutes downtown! The sellers are sad to leave this wonderful home but a job transfer calls...your lucky day! If you're in the market for Zionsville homes for sale then give me a call, you're going to want to see this one fast!
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