by MIKE HALL, Owner/Agent/Broker

The greatest two minutes in sports is almost upon us. During the first Saturday in May, thousands of visitors travel to Louisville to experience the biggest horse race in the world—the Kentucky Derby.

More than 70 events during the Derby Festival lead up to the 149^th run for the roses. Locals and visitors can enjoy food and music on the Waterfront during Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville, watch balloons glow in the night, run in the mini marathon, or try for a hole-in-one. There’s something for everyone, including the homebodies. Check out virtual events for those who prefer to avoid the crowds.

Also, taking place April 29-30 is the 51^st annual Cherokee Triangle Art Fair. With more than 200 artists, you’re sure to find some art to beautify your home with everything from fiber arts, metal and glass. The art fair is not just for adults. Kids are encouraged to join the Children’s Parade to kick off the fair on Saturday morning and enjoy the hands-on activities through the two-day event.

Looking for more low-key events or places to visit? Get outside at Yew Dell Gardens, Idlewild Butterlfy Farm, Waterfront Botanical Gardens, and Wilderness Louisville. Explore the area with one of the many hiking groups on Meetup.com, including Louisville Hiking Club, Louisville Hiking Meetup, or Hike and Bike the Ville.

Severe weather can bring unwanted home repairs

by MIKE HALL, Owner, Broker and Agent

Spring in Kentuckiana brings varied weather. One day it’s a sunny 75 and the next it’s 32 and snowing. Spring can also be a time of flooding or high winds in and around Louisville.

These weather events can cause damage to your Louisville home. Take these measures to help safeguard your investment.

• Inspect your roof. Hire a roof to inspect your roof and look for any loose shingles or leaks. A proper inspection should look at the attic, perimeter, and rooftop and should identify any cracks, curled or missing shingles, and issues with flashing.
• Clean your gutters. Gutters cluttered with leaves and debris can cause water to seep into your home or create ice dams when water freezes. Get them cleaned at least yearly, or more often if you have a lot of trees nearby.
• Inspect your trees. Check your trees for broken, but not fallen limbs. Hire an arborist to check the health of your trees if you suspect. Prune limbs that may be too close to your home and could break a window during high wind gusts.
• Seal up leaks. Check your basement, windows, soffits and doors for any leaks and seal them to prevent water from entering. Check to make sure your sump pump is in working order.

Make sure you have the right amount of insurance to cover any problems that may arise. Does it cover replacement or actual value cost? Does it cover your possessions? Does it cover floods, hail, wind, or water/sewer pipe damage? Does it cover additional living expenses if you are displaced from your home due to a fire or tornado?

Call your Red Edge agent for referrals.

February—the month of love.

By MIKE HALL, Real Estate Agent & Broker

February 14, Valentine’s Day, is the day to celebrate love. Whether it’s the love of a partner, a friend, or a pet, spend the day or all month-long celebrating that love. Here are some ideas to spend time at home filling it with love.

• Read a book. Curl up in your favorite chair or in your bed and read the latest bestseller, whether a romance novel or murder mystery.
• Paint an accent wall a bold red. Add some interest to a neutral room with a splash of color by painting an accent wall or adding décor such as pillows, flowers, or wall art.
• Plan a romantic dinner. Instead of going out with your loved one, order in or spend time cooking a meal together.
• Decorate with things you love. Have a collection of “I Love Lucy” memorabilia or a practical library of books. Make room in your home to display the things you love.
• Game or movie night. Invite your friends over for a night of fun board games or movie marathon.
• Dance and sing. Blast your favorite music and dance and sing even if it’s doing mundane chores.
• Have a playdate. Have a super social pet that has a best buddy at the dog park? Invite them over for a playdate with your pupper.
• Host a sleepover for your child and their friends. Make pizza and cookies. Play some video games or movies and enjoy the house filled with laughter.
• Eagles or Chiefs. Invite your friends, enjoy some wings and cheer on your favorite team.
• Spend time with those you love in a home you love.

If you’re in the market for your dream home to make all these loving memories, reach out to a Red Edge agent today.

How soon should your Christmas tree exit center stage?

By MIKE HALL

Try a new way of thinking about the current market and you’ll see there are some advantages

by MIKE HALL

A higher interest rate doesn’t always translate to a higher payment. Let me explain and give an example.

Let’s say the house you want is $400,000. One year ago, it was common for houses to sell over the asking price. You end up paying $450,000 for the house and got an interest rate of 3.5%. But you had to put 20% down on $450,000.

Same house, same asking price. Let’s look at the current market. There’s not as much competition so you get the house for $375,000. You put 20% down (already saving money here). Your interest rate is 7%. If you do the math, your monthly payment will be similar, and you’ve put significantly less money down. Then, when the market corrects (as it usually does), you can refinance at a lower rate, and you’ll already be in your dream home.

The news about rising interest rates has scared off some buyers but when you sit down to look at the big financial picture with an experienced agent, you’ll walk away encouraged. If buying a home is something you’d like to do in 2023, start building a relationship with a Red Edge agent today.

Surprising but logical ways to put your mind at ease and go for the next step.

by MIKE HALL

Which path to take may not be as baffling as you think.

To sell or to stay put? In this market, homeowners may feel puzzled about when to sell and when to hold on to the home they have. It’s understandable, with the Fed raising the rate again, the real estate industry continues to look differently than it has in the past three years.

But let’s move a little closer to home and train our gaze to Louisville. What should Louisville homeowners consider when it comes to putting their home on the market? We have some answers.

Do you live in a high demand area with low inventory? Some pockets of town – like the 20 we’ve listed below – never cool off and if you’re in one of those places, it’s still a good time to sell. If you’re in one of the following areas, talk to a Red Edge agent today about the pros and cons of listing a home right now.

1. Crestwood
2. Buckner
3. Pewee Valley
4. Prospect
5. Orchard Grass Hills
6. Beechwood Village
7. Indian Hills
8. Windy Hills
9. Anchorage
10. Barbourmeade
11. Gardiner Lane
12. Hawthorne
13. Belknap
14. Hurstbourne
15. Audubon Park
16. Graymoor-Devondale
17. Northfield
18. Brownsboro Zorn
19. Cherokee Gardens
20. Worthington Hills

Downsizing and having a home with a high value are other reasons to sell. If your current house seems too big, you’re over yard work, the kids moved out, or you went through a divorce, you may be craving a simpler abode.

No matter your circumstance, you can still get a Red Edge agent to help you process what’s best for your family. We are more focused on building a relationship that lasts that quickly getting the next contract. Our agents look out for your best and have the experience to guide you during your decision-making.

Reach out today!

Source: https://www.today.com/video/buy-sell-or-hold-key-strategies-to-follow-for-smart-shopping-152404549639

Add another pumpkin experience to your fall lineup now through the end of October

by MIKE HALL

Kentucky Kingdom adds jack-o-lanterns and spooky decorations to delight theme park goers this October.

If your family loves all the festivities that come around this time of year, you’ll want to add a trip to Kentucky Kingdom to October’s calendar.

The theme park has extended their season to host a pumpkin experience.

This enlightened move falls in line with lots of other Louisville traditions: Huber’s Farms, the Jack Lantern Spectacular at Iroquois Amphitheater, Gallrein Farms and a multitude of local haunted houses, including one of Louisville most feared and revered experiences, the Waverly Hills Haunted House Tour.

If you’d like to take in 1,000 illuminated pumpkins alongside glowing rides and buildings at Kentucky Kingdom, the view is included in the admission price. For more information, click or tap here.

Fall in love with Louisville this fall. If you’re ready to buy a house and commit to this great community, reach out to a Red Edge agent today!

St. James Court Art Show Sept. 30 – Oct. 2, 2022

by Mike Hall

Houses along St. James Court, including the Conrad-Caldwell House (upper left) and the Dodd House (lower left). (Broken Sidewalk; Courtesy Google)

From clay to wood, more than 600 artists from across the country will inhabit a four-block radius in Old Louisville during the St. James Court Art Show Sept. 30 - Oct. 2.

This popular and historical Louisville event is one reason to love living and working in a city that appreciates culture.

St. James Court Art Show features artists who work in 17 different mediums along with food vendors to keep you refreshed and on the go all day.

The art show began in 1957 to preserve the St. James Court fountain. It worked and within 10 years, the show’s attendance had grown to 40,000. The art show continues to spur growth in the St. James Court and around Old Louisville.

If you attend the event this autumn and fall in love with the area (the architecture of Old Louisville is stunning), talk to a Red Edge agent about setting up a special search feature to send you homes for sale in that area. We’d love to help you!

It may be hot in Louisville, but it’s time to think cozy for your indoor space

by Mike Hall

Warmly lit room with comfy throw inspires all the vibes.

August temperatures may soar, but our Louisvillian hearts start pining for brisk evenings and autumn afternoons.

No need to wait for Mother Nature. After all, we know she takes her sweet time in the Ohio Valley. Especially September through October.

While you may be sweating in the humidity of Kentuckiana, get a jump start on feeling “fall” inside your home with these design accents:

1. Throw pillows: handknit and faux fur pillows are always inviting
2. Rustic vases: Textured vases in organic shapes add movement to your space and are perfect for what’s next …
3. Statement branches: From a bleached wheat bundle to a faux olive branch, these glorious pieces can add autumn drama to any room.
4. Throws: Chunky knits and velour just beg for snuggles, naps and afternoons of college football.
5. Candles: Hurricane candleholders make a candle flame safer and add a decorative flare to any home. Choose scents that elicit memories of flannel, hayrides, and apple-picking.

By the way, if you find yourself as a home seller this fall, these tips can also double as staging advice. You’re welcome!

Rates may be up but that doesn’t mean there’s no demand

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

The housing market: “Weakening doesn’t mean crashing.” - Fortune

Getting a contract on your home today is still a faster turnaround than you might expect – at around one month. While the current interest rate could slow it down, it may also balance out the extreme height of the home buying frenzy making it easier for home buyers to purchase a home.

According to Fortune, the metric to watch is months of supply at the current selling rate which incorporates the supply and demand sides of real estate. The ratio represents the number of months it would take to sell all homes currently on the market (supply) at the current pace of purchases (demand). Even now, it takes around one month to sell a home but a truly “balanced” market is around six months.

Keep in mind that timeline may vary depending on the type of home you’re selling. A home that’s less than $200,000 will often sell more quickly than a $1 million dollar home. The more expensive the home, the more it can vary in features and style. Does it have a pool? Is there room for a pool? What is the style of the home?

With the landscape changing for buyers and sellers, it’s important to have a real estate agent you trust to navigate the journey. If you want to take advantage of selling your home quicker than average, reach out to a Red Edge agent today.

[Source: Fortune.com]

You are My Sunshine Flowers

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

Which sun-loving blooms will beautify your home?

With the sun finally showing up more consistently, many homeowners are turning their thoughts to blooms and blossoms. Whether adding that special touch to sell your home or getting cozy in the house of your dreams, color and foliage can brighten any home.

Of course, you must find the right bud for the location. Some flowers need shade part or most of the day, but there are many beautiful full-sun options that might just be the perfect creation for your curb appeal. Many of these flowers look beautiful while also attracting a variety of butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and admiring neighbors and potential buyers! Here are some of the most beautiful and eye-catching full-sun flowers:

• Zahara Zinnias
• Diamond Frost Euphorbia
• Supertunia Petunia
• Bolivian Begonia
• Summer Snapdragon
• Lantana
• Calibrachoa
• SunPatiens
• Sweet Alyssum
• Sunflowers
• Geranium
• Pentas
• Marigolds

[Source: HGTV.com]

New Kentucky Law Helps Revive the City

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

Soon, more homes could be available for home buyers!

As Louisville home buyers continue to struggle with low inventory and intense competition, every house matters! Currently, the city maintains more than a thousand abandoned properties, including houses and lots of land. It often takes months or years to convert the properties to the market.

But a new Kentucky law might help move those properties along faster.

The new law allows cities to establish third-party conservators, who can refurbish and renovate abandoned properties. The conservators would establish a plan, create a timeline, acquire the necessary funding, and submit their plan for approval.

The conservatorship program is another tool for cities to use to help ease their housing burdens. Louisville’s Office of Housing and Development will only use conservators occasionally, primarily focusing on historic buildings that might have to undergo emergency demolition if repairs aren’t seen to quickly.

Louisville is hoping to pilot the program with one house and one conservator. With this program and other tools, Louisville hopes to shorten the amount of time an abandoned or vacant property sits empty and get more homes onto the market and into the hands of invested homeowners.

[Source: WHAS11.com]

Relief for Homeowners Affected by Covid

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

Help is available for qualifying homeowners

In collaboration with the Kentucky Housing Corporation, the state is providing relief for Kentucky homeowners impacted by loss of jobs or income because of the ongoing Covid pandemic.

Qualified homeowners can apply on Kentucky’s state website to receive up to $35,000 in relief funds, which can be used for overdue mortgage payments, property taxes, home and flood insurance, neighborhood fees, or utilities, according to a WDRB report.

During a season when our homes became even more important – often serving as our office, school, gym, and refuge while uncertainty ruled outside, it’s vitally important that now those who need relief to save their homes can do so.

Applicants must be able to document financial hardship and proof of residency and income. Find details at https://teamkyhaf.ky.gov/

Samantha Brown Show Highlights Louisville

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

Another reason Louisville is a great place to live!

The global traveler, Samantha Brown, has brought her show Places to Love to Louisville. Brown visited the Kentucky Stoneware & Co., the Mohammed Ali Center, and Bourbons Bistro on Frankfurt Avenue, as well as other locations throughout Kentucky.

Brown’s fifth season of Places to Love will air on KET on Saturday, Feb. 12 at 1:30 p.m. and at various times throughout the month on PBS channels.

With so much to see and do in the Louisville area, it’s no wonder it made Brown’s list of “places to love.” From sprawling parks to bourbon tours … grassroots markets to innovative and delicious restaurants, and historic districts to pioneering new technologies, Louisville is a great place to live and work.

Talk to an agent today about all the reasons why Louisville is not just a great place to love – but a great place to live!

[Source: gotoLouisville.com]

January Landscaping

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

January is a time to plan, prepare, and protect!

Is the dawning of a new year making you think about your hopes and plans for your home, including your landscaping? You don’t have to wait. There is plenty to do now as you get ready for the new spring buds!

• Plan and buy seeds – January is a great time think about what plants you might like to incorporate into your landscaping over the year, especially if you’ll be buying seeds from a catalog. Start dreaming and then act!
• Use moderate weather days to clean out trees, shrubs, and bushes now that you can see more clearly between branches and at the trunks.
• Add burlap, live Christmas tree branches, or other natural insulation to protect your perennials.
• Check your bulbs and other plants that you brought in for the winter months and remove any rotting bulbs and withered limbs.
• Prune dormant trees and bushes.
• Check your garden for uprooted plants.

Spring will be coming just around the corner, so take advantage of these barren months to really get ready for the blooms and color coming. Whether you’re enjoying your newly purchased dream home or preparing to sell in the spring, take care of some of the outside elements even when it’s the dead of winter.

[Source: todayshomeowner.com]

See Louisville in All Her Splendor!

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

So much to see and do in Louisville this season!

Louisville knows how to get fancy for the holidays! There are many neighborhoods, events, and businesses that go all out for Christmas, making Louisville a great place to live and work. Check out some of these light attractions in and near the city this Christmas season!

1. Lights Under Louisville – Ride or drive under Louisville to see more than 4 million lights at the Louisville Mega Caverns.
2. Gardens Aglimmer – Waterfront Botanical Gardens – See the Botanical Gardens transformed during select days in December.
3. Winter Woods Spectacular – Iroquois Park – See the forest transformed into a magical winter wonderland.
4. Christmas in the Park – Elizabethtown – Travel through an illuminated roadway representing the best of the Christmas spirit.
5. Winter Wonderland – Shawnee Park – Visit this new festival of lights December 17-19.
6. Christmas in Charlestown, Ind. – Visit the nearby town that calls itself Christmas City during the holidays for tons of events and lights!

[Source: WLKY.com]

Central Park Refresh

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

Central Park in Old Louisville received a cleanup!

Louisville is a great place to live, with an endless variety of restaurants, events, schools, businesses, and parks. For Louisville residents and guests, Central Park in historic Old Louisville is a popular location for special events, social gatherings, family adventures, and solo wandering.

Central Park is even more ready for guests now that a group of almost 75 volunteers did a park cleanup! The team tackled projects that city teams rarely have the time capacities to maintain, including fixing sidewalks, laying mulch, and a variety of other clean-up and repair projects.

A cleaner, fresher park wasn’t their only reward! Louisville volunteers who helped at Central Park also got to warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, and donuts, plus enjoy chili or pizza to celebrate a job well done.

Central Park is one of Louisville’s 120 parks—beautiful and enticing spaces to love living and working in Louisville, Ky.!

[Source: WDRB.com]

Norton Commons Homeorama Explores Beautiful Properties

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

The housing market in Louisville and its surrounding areas continues to be competitive, with an ongoing shortage of available houses and a steady stream of home buyers looking to find their dream house.

Some areas of the city, like Norton Commons, are in constant demand. Norton Commons sits on almost 600 acres and is currently home to more than 1,800 residences, more than 80 businesses, three schools, and dozens of parks, pools and green spaces.

Norton Commons has been designed and specifically engineered to reduce the need to drive by having everything nearby and to save the community on monthly utilities by providing geothermal heating.

In September, Norton Commons held its annual Homeorama, which provided sneak peeks at nine houses in the community—exhibiting everything from efficiency, custom architecture, and beautiful interior designs. There were also special events and attractions.

If you’re hoping to buy or sell a house in Norton Commons, or any of the great neighborhoods and communities in Louisville, contact an agent today and we’ll be happy to help you navigate this complex housing market!

[Source: WDRB.com]

One Way to Enjoy Louisville this September

By Mike Hall, Broker/Agent/Owner

Enjoy Louisville at NuLu Fest

With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise, many people are looking for ways to enjoy living in Louisville. Many indoor events and experiences remain canceled, but Louisville is seeing a return of our beloved outdoor festivals. One such experience, the NuLu Fest, will be returning to the East Market District after cancelling last year due to covid precautions.

NuLu Fest will be on the 600, 700, and 800 blocks of East Market Street from 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 18.

Among the available options, participants will be able to enjoy live music, purchase microbrews, and visit booths by local vendors. There will be activities for all ages, and the event is free and family-friendly!

It’s a great time to explore the city, encourage local businesses and artisans, and have fun for the whole family. It’s just another reason why Louisville is a great place to live!

[Source: wdrb.com]