The All Homes in Louisville Real Estate Blog

Our Louisville Home Scores big on Athletics

2012-04-18T01:13:00-07:00

Sure, it’s only a few weeks until Louisville’s big day celebrating the “greatest two minutes in sports” at historic Churchill Downs for the running of the Kentucky Derby, and yes, we are all very excited and ready for all the fun. But to think for even half a second that thoroughbred racing is the only sport on the minds of Louisvillians right now would be about as accurate as predicting that the Pope will leave his current job and become a rapper with his own fragrance line. No, Louisville is big on sports of EVERY kind, and we don’t just like to watch the professionals. We love to get in there and play, watch, cheer, coach and talk endlessly about them all too. We play volleyball in the neighborhood church league during the winter and summer league softball when it’s warm. And our kids play absolutely everything whether or not they are any good: ice hockey, soccer, baseball, golf, basketball, tennis, field hockey, lacrosse, gymnastics, swimming...and many, many more. There’s no question that we love our sports, but we let’s be honest. We don’t always love dealing with all of our sports gear and equipment. We love seeing our daughter hit a homerun, but we swear under our breath when we trip over her bat and cleats left lying in the hall. We rejoice when our son hits the three-pointer to win the basketball game at the buzzer, but we want to choke him when we find his dirty uniform all balled up in his closet only 10 minutes before it’s time to leave for the next game. But during this season of spring cleaning and organizing, Louisville homes will be able to love their sports with a clear conscience by following just a few simple tips that will help them score big when it comes to athletics. • When it comes to sports equipment, the key is to have one place for all of it. The lacrosse sticks, catcher’s mitts, goggles, and footballs all need to stay in one designated area of the house. Some prefer that this space be in the garage; others like to keep it just inside the back door to the house. Either place is fine, but don’t let your kids – and your spouse – keep their sports equipment in their own rooms. Tennis balls and batting helmets have a way of disappearing when they could be anywhere in the house. • If the garage is your designated location, consider using some old kitchen cabinets for sports storage. This is a practical way of repurposing a storage solution that is no longer functional in your kitchen. If your equipment will be inside the house, consider purchasing some inexpensive ottomans that can serve as both storage and extra seating. • Uniforms and other athletic attire also need to have their own space separate from other clothing. When a tennis skirt gets put away in a drawer with all the other shorts or football pants gets folded up alongside a couple pairs of jeans, they tend to be hard to find right before the big game. Instead, have either a drawer dedicated only to athletic attire, or if drawer space is limited, designate a portion of the closet for these items only, and hang them all there. Then everyone knows exactly where to look when it’s game time. • Keep in mind that you don’t have to keep your athletic clothing and equipment completely out of sight. In fact, some folks like to use their sports paraphernalia as an element in their décor. You just need to make sure it stays organized and doesn’t clutter your living space. Hooks are a great solution for hanging athletic attire on walls, and open shelving or cubbies can be an easy way to store equipment. Our homes reflect our loves, interests, personalities, and passions. During this season of spring cleaning and organizing, Louisville home owners can pursue their love affair with athletics without worry. All we need to do is follow a few simple tips, and our Louisville homes will score big th

Louisville Home Owners As Derby Hosts and Hostesses

2012-05-04T13:56:00-07:00

Many Louisville home owners will be watching this Saturday’s Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs. Some will wear their best suits, summer dresses, high heels, and Derby hats on Millionaires Row while others will be in shorts and tee-shirts in the infield. But a lot of us will be at home this Saturday watching the Run for the Roses on TV with friends around. Derby parties here run the gamut from backyard barbeques with cold beer and horseshoes to high-dollar black tie galas complete with caviar, pâté, and celebrity sightings. Either way, a Derby party is the best way to celebrate the pinnacle event in thoroughbred racing without actually being at the track. Hosting a Derby party can be a daunting experience, especially if you don’t know how to apply a theme to your party in ways that are fun without being over-the-top. Fortunately, there are a few easy things you can do that will ensure that this Saturday’s Derby-themed shin-dig will actually make your guests glad they didn’t make it to the Downs! • Think about having a race pool ready when your guests arrive. Every Derby Day, the Courier-Journal prints a list of the horses racing in large type so that they can be cut out for those purpose at home. Ask your guests to throw in a couple bucks for each horse they draw. Having a horse to pull for in the race makes it all the more fun! You might consider having a loser’s pot too where the person who draws the horse who finishes last gets his/her bet back. If your crowd doesn’t like to bet money, that’s no problem at all - you can still have everyone choose a horse. Some Derby parties that start early in the afternoon have pools on all the races that run during the day, not just the big one that goes off on the first Saturday in May each year around 6:00 p.m. • Even if a mint julep isn’t your drink of choice the other 364 days of the year, it’s fun to serve this classic cocktail on Derby Day. A drink made of only three ingredients - bourbon, mint, and sugar - sounds hard to mess up, but unfortunately, people often do. And a bad mint julep is, well, really bad. But you can make sure the ones you serve will have folks coming back for more by closely following good directions for this famous drink. Click here for a sure-fire recipe. • Don’t even think about serving those mint juleps in plastic cups. Only traditional mint julep glasses will do. These sterling silver or silver plated glasses will add an air of elegance to any gathering, and they are must-haves at Derby parties. But they don’t just have to be used only to serve the drink after which they are named. They also make wonderful small vases for fresh spring flowers that can be used all year round. • Don’t forget about the “other” Derby glasses. For well over a hundred years, a commemorative Derby glass featuring a unique design and the list of all of the past winners on it is issued annually, and party hosts and hostesses can buy them almost anywhere in town. Many long-time Louisvillians have quite a collection of these glasses and serve drinks in them each year on Derby Day. The great thing about a Derby party is that it comes with a ready-made theme. By simply using a few of these easy party tips, Louisville home owners will turn what might otherwise be a ho-hum Saturday get-together into a fun and memorable Derby event. What better way could there be to experience the greatest two minutes in sports?

Exceptional Louisville Churches

2012-04-28T04:03:00-07:00

Louisville's Historic Churches Louisville is one of the oldest cities west of the Appalachian mountains, founded in 1778 by then Col. George Rogers Clark. As cities sprang up across the west, churches were built in abundance to take care of the spiritual needs of the new settlers. Louisville has an abundance of beautiful churches dating back to the mid 1800's and in this photographic series we will document many historic and architecturally significant places of worship around our wonderful city. Our first featured church is the Refuge in Kentucky Church located at Market & Hancock St's in Louisville. (History to follow)

KY Derby Festival Events

2012-04-23T08:13:00-07:00

Louisville home owners will be enjoying more than just the spring weather over the next couple weeks. The Kentucky Derby Festival is under way, and the dizzying array of amazing events will have us Louisvillians—and our many out-of-town guests—stepping out to enjoy the fun. Last weekend’s big event, Thunder Over Louisville, set the tone for the coming three weeks of events and activities designed to delight folks of every background, with every interest, and from every walk of life. After weeks of balmy, beautiful weather, last Saturday took a surprising turn with temperatures in the low 50’s and winds that made it feel even colder. But that didn’t keep the 405,000 people who braved the weather from enjoying the air show and fireworks. Because of the low cloud cover, the originally planned air show was curtailed slightly, but even with these adjustments, nearly 90 aircraft displayed their power and speed with aerial acrobatic stunts that wowed the crowd. Of course, the highlight of the evening was the magnificent fireworks display. This year’s theme was “A Star Spangled Blast,” and the spectacular light show was set to an eclectic musical backdrop that included songs popular during American wars as well as anti-war tunes, and from George W. Bush’s words and lyrics from Lady Gaga mixed in. Nearly 70 tons of fireworks were launched from the Clark Memorial Bridge to the amazed oohs and aahs from crowds on both sides of the river. But Thunder is just one of the big events that makes up the Kentucky Derby Festival which will culminate in this year’s Run for the Roses on Derby Day, May 5. Other big attractions include the Hole-In-One Golf Contest and Pro-Am Tournament, the Fillies Derby Ball, Fest-a-Ville Concerts, Chow Wagons, Great Balloon Race, Mini-Marathon, Steamboat Race, Pegasus Parade, and the Kentucky Oaks. Some silly events are thrown in to show our crazy side, like the Bed Races and Run for the Rosé, but Louisville also takes time during the festival to show its more serious, civic-minded side by doing volunteer work during the Mayor’s Week of Service. Naturally, these are only a few of the many Derby Festival events that captivate our city and attract so many visitors to town. Although the Brad Long team will be working hard match those looking for a new residence in Derby City with the perfect home this spring, we’ll be joining many Louisville home owners by stepping out to enjoy many of the Derby Festival events. What a great time to live in Louisville! Complete List of Kentucky Derby Activities 04/19/2012 $1 Million Dollar Hole In One Golf Contest04/21/2012 Kentucky Derby Festival Volleyball Classic04/23/2012 King Southern Bank Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation Pro-Am Golf Tournament04/25/2012 Kentucky Derby Festival "Taste of Derby Festival"04/25/2012 $1 Million Dollar Hole In One Ladies Day04/26/2012 Pajama Party & Bed Making Competition04/26/2012 Chow Wagon at Waterfront Park04/26/2012 U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Tour04/26/2012 U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Glimmer04/26/2012 U.S. Bank Kentucky Derby Festival Great BalloonFest04/26/2012 Kroger's Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront04/26/2012 Fourth Street Live! Kentucky Derby Festival After Party04/26/2012 BB&T Kentucky Derby Festival Running Wild Expo04/27/2012 U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Rush Hour Race04/27/2012 U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Glow04/27/2012 BB&T Running Wild Pasta Dinner & Expo04/27/2012 APASSIONATA "The Beginning": April 27-29, 2012 at Freedom Hall04/27/2012 Zumba Fitness Jam04/28/2012 Marathon/miniMarathon presented by Walmart04/28/2012 U.S. Bank Derby Festival Great Balloon Race04/28/2012 Da'Ville Classic Drum Line Showcase College Fair04/28/2012 TheSlice: Spice, Style & Soul04/28/2012 Sonic Saturday Featuring Eddie Money04/28/2012 NPC Kentucky Derby Championships Fitness * Figure * Bikini *Bodybuilding * Physique04/28/2012 Kentucky Derby Festival- ACO DerbyHole Classic04/29/2012 $1 Million Dollar Hole In One Semi Finals04/29/2012 Louisville Youth Orchestra Concert04/29/2012 Children's Tea with the Derby Festival Princesses presented by Goldberg Simpson04/29/2012 Celebration Sunday with 88.5 WJIE04/29/2012 GospelFest04/29/2012 Derby Brunch On the River04/30/2012 Stock Yards Bank Kentucky Derby Festival Great Bed Races04/30/2012 AT&T Derby Festival Morning Line04/30/2012 Don Fightmaster Golf Outing for Exceptional Children04/30/2012 Discovery Day Presented by PNC04/30/2012 HappyTail Hour at Kroger's Fest-a-Ville04/30/2012 Knights of Columbus Charity Dinner05/01/2012 $1 Million Dollar Hole In One Finals05/01/2012 Republic Bank Parade Preview Party05/01/2012 WineFest05/01/2012 Texas Hold'em Tournament05/01/2012 Ramble for the Roses05/01/2012 Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Healthy Lifestyle Showcase05/01/2012 RhythmFest featuring George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic05/02/2012 Great Steamboat Race05/02/2012 Battle of the Bounce05/02/2012 Wednesday Evening Concert Featuring Walk The Moon with special guest Ha Ha Tonka05/03/2012 Celebrity Day at the Downs05/03/2012 Republic Bank Pegasus Parade05/03/2012 100 Black Men of Louisville Derby Gala05/03/2012 Tune It Up Thursday Concert featuring AWOLNATION05/04/2012 Derby Eve Jam featuring The Charlie Daniels Band with Guest the Hillbenders For links to all of the events go here: http://kdf.org/search.cgi?category=events Brad Long Group agents are Professional Buyer's Agents helping Buyers of Louisville, KY Real Estate. Search the MLS for free here - Louisville, KY Property Listings

La Coop: France comes to NULU

2012-04-22T08:01:00-07:00

From the talented group that brought you Basa on Frankfort and Doc Crow’s on Main Street comes the latest addition to the fast growing foodie scene in Louisville’s NULU area. La Coop Bistro a Vins. Set to open Tuesday April 24 at 732 E. Market Street ( formerly 732 Social). This new concept restaurant designed by Brett Davis, Michael and Steven Ton and Chip Hamm transports you to Paris. From the moment you walk in the door, you are greeted with the aroma of French cooking and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. You will want to settle in for the evening. The French country menu includes such favorites as onion soup smothered in Gruyere cheese, escargot and cog a vin. The wine list is stellar and eclectic and the cocktails are lovely and very French. Surprisingly affordable with the most expensive item on the menu costing $20.Bobby Benjamin ( Oak Room ) is the executive chef along with Michael Ton ( Basa and Doc Crow’s). They developed the menu for La Coop.No detail has been overlooked in the décor. From the adorable chicken wire lining the inside of the bar cabinets to the waiter’s striped aprons to the light fixtures encased in cages, the name La Coop( Chicken coop referring to the limited space in the restaurant) is represented well. The color scheme is warm and inviting with tan and black tones and a refreshing splash of citrus green on the barstools. There will be al fresco seating on the sidewalk lining E. Market. Thank you Kelly Valenti for your observations on this exciting new dining spot.

Louisville Home Sales on an Upward Swing

2012-04-18T01:34:00-07:00

Louisville real estate has rebounded from the effects of the housing bust that lowered home prices and triggered a national recession. In fact, in February members of the Greater Louisville Association of Realtors sold 26 percent more houses and condominiums than they did a year ago at this time, and February marked the eighth straight month in a row of higher sales figures. Just what accounts for the increases in home purchases? Analysts believe that the dual forces of stronger consumer confidence in the economy and the improving job market are propelling the recovery. Certainly, no one is ready to say that the recession is completely behind us. But according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the month of January saw 15,000 more jobs available in Greater Louisville than during the same month of the previous year. As reported in the Courier-Journal, Louisville and Southern Indiana have added jobs each month since last May. This job growth has led prospective home buyers back into the market at a time when they can purchase a home for a price far lower than they would have been able to a few years ago. Another indicator of the renewed health of the housing market is the number of permits home builders request. When builders anticipate a depressed market, few permits are requested because builders don’t want to sit on inventory they can’t move. This February though, builders requested 5 percent more permits for new construction, and the overall rate of permit requests is now at its highest point since late 2008. All of this data means that both outside the doors of our homes and inside the offices that help us purchase them, spring has truly sprung! Spring is traditionally the prime home shopping season, so this year prospective buyers are in prime position to make the most of their investment as home prices today are still significantly lower than they were when the housing bubble burst.

Louisville Homes Look Light and Airy This Spring

2012-04-18T01:24:00-07:00

They say that a person’s eyes are "the windows to the soul," but what about the windows themselves? Surely, windows are the very soul of a home as they connect inside and outside into one harmonious whole. Without them, we would feel far too enclosed, perhaps even trapped. The windows in our Louisville homes unite us with nature, each other, and the rest of the world. As Derby City residents are now throwing open the sashes to let the spring sunshine and warm breezes in, they’re also making some clever changes to their window treatments in ways that lift the soul of home and homeowner alike. Gone are the days of heavy valences and cornices with layer upon layer of fabric used to make a statement. This season, light, soft, and simple is definitely "in" when it comes to decorating windows. A few simple and inexpensive updates can make a world of difference. • Get rid of your old three-inch thick wooden rods with their huge drapery rings. Replacing them with thin rods freshens up the look. • Instead of heavy fabrics, try sheer curtains. Their light, gauzy look – especially when a gentle breeze blows through – is the perfect accent for conveying a sense of lightness and ease. If you’re worried about privacy, just add a thin cotton lining to the sheers. • Consider saving money while enhancing style by purchasing pre-packaged panels that you can have lined by a seamstress. Have them cut to a length that will very lightly touch the floor. • When it comes to patterns in window fabrics, less is definitely more. Using all one color or a tone-on-tone pattern are more stylish today than the bold, dramatic look of the past. If you are concerned that a solid color might be too boring in your room, try livening things up through texture rather than color. Panels in a rougher linen fabric add extra some extra dimension that flat cotton alone doesn’t have. Louisville homes are looking light and airy this spring, and not just because of the great weather or a fresh coat of paint. By updating how we adorn our windows, we’re lightening not only the "soul" of our homes but our own spirits as well.

Bowman Field Key to Highlands Homes Appeal

2012-03-03T13:05:00-07:00

Everyone knows what a fabulous area of Louisville the Highlands is. The stunning homes brimming with character on tree-lined streets, the Highlands’ proximity to downtown, its easy access to Seneca and Cherokee Parks, and all the nearby restaurants and galleries on Bardstown Road make it one of Derby City’s most sought-after addresses. But it’s not just the parks and dining that make the Highlands such a unique residential area. It’s also the fact that it’s home to the 92-year-old Bowman Field, Louisville’s airport for small aircraft. One of the oldest continuously operated airfields in the country, Bowman Field has been an important part of local corporate air travel and a key source of flight time for amateur aviators. Among other services, this Louisville landmark provides a way to keep smaller aircraft away from the big commercial jets at Louisville International Airport, and it serves as a major site for pilot training in Kentucky. But you don’t have to be in the business to appreciate Bowman’s magic. Anyone who’s ever sat out on the deck at Bistro Le Relais to sip a glass of wine while watching the planes land at dusk knows quite a bit about Bowman Field’s charms. Its rich history dates back to 1919 and includes a landing by Charles Lindbergh in the Spirit of St. Louisville in 1927. From 1928 until 1947, Bowman was the city’s main airport until commercial operations moved to Louisville International Airport, then known as Standiford Field. Now, though, the future of this classic airport may be in question. Business has decreased considerably in recent years resulting in significant deficits. In 1998, there were 195,000 takeoffs and landings. In 2011, there were just 72,000. Additionally, the FAA has started enforcing a larger zone of protected airspace that is required for airports that house the kind of modern instrument landing guidance systems that Bowman has. Some Highlands residents fear that this will mean losing ancient trees in beautiful neighborhoods like Kingsley and Seneca Gardens. The debate over Bowman Field’s future is far from over. Many believe that despite large deficits, Bowman plays an important role in freeing Louisville International from potential entanglements caused when large commercial jets share space with smaller planes, and that regardless of the number of flights it has, Bowman is needed as a key aviation training site. But others worry that their Highlands homes may be adversely affected if neighborhoods lose many of the old, beautiful trees that are so much a part of the area’s charm. For now, only time will tell. Search all Highlands Homes for sale by area, price, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

Crescent Hill Homes In Print

2012-03-27T05:24:00-07:00

Louisville has always had a deep, abiding love for its unique neighborhoods, and Crescent Hill is certainly one its oldest and more revered. This adored geographic area of rich tradition, amazing restaurants, quirky shops, art galleries, and beautiful homes has now hit the pages of a recent new book that chronicles its rich history and powerful charm. 'Louisville’s Crescent Hill,' by John E. Findling, chronicles the story of Crescent Hill from its surprising beginnings to its present day status as one of Louisville’s most eclectic neighborhoods. Many of us who have lived in Louisville for decades were surprised to learn about Crescent Hill’s beginnings. Believe it or not, it started as the original site of the state fairgrounds! But over time, the neighborhood evolved into the charming and eclectic — even edgy — area that attracts home buyers of all ages, incomes, and walks of life. Its proximity to the beauty of Cherokee Park make it ideal for people who want to be close to downtown for work but near nature for fun and recreation. Restaurants like Porcini, Varanese, Pat’s Steak House, Blue Dog Bakery, and dozens of others have made Frankfort Avenue into a real competitor with Bardstown Road in the unofficial “culinary street capital of Louisville” contest. Also, the old churches with their rustic charm and the beautiful Cave Hill Cemetery, where visitors go just to experience its quiet grandeur and feed the legendary ducks, add a touch of timeless elegance to the contemporary vibe that the restaurants and boutique shops provide.A relaxing jaunt through the pages of Louisville's Crescent Hill is a visual treat that both Louisville natives and visitors to town should not miss. Author John E. Findling includes over 200 vintage photos that provide a rich visual history of Crescent Hill’s evolution from its early beginnings, through its challenges, like the devastating tornado of 1974, and its accomplishments, like the educational and charitable organizations it birthed, to its grandeur today. Carmichael’s Book Store, another Louisville landmark that begin as a small neighborhood book store frequently by Crescent Hill homeowner, held a book-signing on February 12, and autographed copies may still be available. The cost of the book in paperback is $21.99 at Carmichael’s or $17.15 on Amazon.com. To learn more about Louisville's Crescent Hill area, please visit Crescent Hill Homes for Sale

Louisville Highlands Home 2354 Valley Vista Rd

2012-03-18T08:13:00-07:00

2354 Valley Vista Rd - Lovely center hall colonial center hall home on great street near Lakeside, Douglass Loop & Joe Creason Park. Hardwood floors through out with arched doorways. Living room has a beautiful fireplace, built-in shelves & opens to a rare 1st floor family room. Formal dining room just off the hallway leads to the newly remodeled (2009) eat in kitchen. The kitchen has granite counter tops, custom cabinets,stainless steel appliances, gas stove/convection oven, stainless exhaust hood and access to the fenced back yard. Addition storage in custom built-in seating in dining area. Spacious master bedroom on the second floor has plenty of room to add a master bath. Seller has obtained a bid for a master bathroom (Estimate $7,500-see attached pdf after the photos. Also upstairs are the 2nd/3rd bedroom. The finished basement was just repainted and has lots of storage and new carpet. Detached one car garage (new roof in 2011). Beautifully landscaped front and back yard. New roof on house in 2009. Viewing Louisville Highlands Homes can't get any easier - Our team is always here for you.

Highlands Home for Sale 1623 Edgeland Ave 40204

2012-03-18T07:12:00-07:00

Don't let this photo deceive you--this house is BIGGER than it looks & lives LARGER than its square footage. This exceptional 1912 Craftsman bungalow is LOADED with character...you enter the front porch and have a beadboard ceiling. The front facade has the original, multiple-light windows which have been restored. The 1st floor is extremely open from the kitchen to the living room & dining area....there is a beamed ceiling and a thick, simple, original wainscoting about 5 feet up the dining/living room walls. The built-in bookshelves surrounding the tiled fireplace, have been carefully restored. FULLY remodeled in 2011, both mechanically & cosmetically, this one has it all. The new kitchen has mission-style maple cabinets, granite countertops, & stainless steel appliances. Both 1st floor bedrooms are VERY large for this era of a home--between those 2 bedrooms is a gorgeous new bathroom with period, white hex tile floor, subway-tiled walls, new tub/shower, and a vessel sink. Upstairs are 2 Master Suites...you read that correctly! The larger master has a tiled, walk-in shower, jacuzzi tub, double vanity and ceramic tile floors. The other master (4th bedroom) has a private bathroom (#3) which has been added...this one was finished with a single-bowl sink vanity, tiled floors, and a tub/shower...Second floor laundry has been added, complete with a folding area. Outside there is a new deck, privacy fenced yard, and rear/off-street parking for one. With proper approval, this could potentially be converted to a carport or 1-car garage. New zoned heating & air, water heater, plumbing & electrical, and over 80% of the windows (sides/rear) are new....WALK to Tyler Park, Bardstown Road, and bus #17...convenient to just about everything...like new construction -or- Large Condo living...everything is new & not much to maintain inside or outside! Come take a look & see the many photos. LG&E averaged $150 per month. To view this home 1623 Edgeland Ave and all other Highland Homes you can visit Louisville Highlands Homes for Sale

St Matthews Home for Sale 107 Don Allen Rd 40207

2012-03-18T06:29:00-07:00

Wonderfully CHARMING Colonial in the City of RICHLAWN located in the heart of all that ST MATTHEWS has to offer! Close to Resturants, Shopping, Seneca Park and only minutes from downtown. Recent roof replacement, formal living & dining rooms w/HARDWOOD flooring & CROWN MOLDING, large family room overlooks fenced and spacious BACKYARD. All bedrooms on the 2nd floor. You can learn more about the area at St Matthews Homes for Sale

Fourth Street Live gets New Tenant

2012-03-17T03:42:00-07:00

Louisville night life moved from lukewarm to red hot back in 2004 when 4th Street Live opened its doors. The entertainment and retail complex located on prime downtown real estate between Mohammad Ali and Liberty on 4th Street is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and stores, and, as city officials announced this week, it will soon be welcoming one more. A bar to be called Tavern on Fourth, owned by East Coast Saloons who owns two other bars at 4th Street Live, will move into the second floor of the Kaufman Straus building after renovations are completed. The city says that this new 4th Street live tenant will produce 80 new jobs and further contribute to the city’s economic development efforts, and because of this, generous lease agreements and other financial incentives have been offered to the developers. But some eyebrows have been raised about the deal. As detailed in a recent Courier-Journal article, some Metro Council members and other citizens aren’t pleased with the deal offered to the Baltimore-based Cordish Company who developed 4th Street Live and is now brining Tavern on Fourth into the complex. Despite the controversy, 4th Street Live remains a great place for Louisville locals to meet after work or for visitors from out-of-town to eat out and have a good time. Restaurants include the Hard Rock Café, J. Gumbo’s, Marker’s Mark, Sully’s, Rengo Sed Cantina, TGI Friday’s, The Pub, Wet Willie’s, Ri Ra Irish Pub, The Sports and Social Club, Improv Comedy Club and Dinner Theater, and PBR Louisville as well as a food court. Many of these restaurants have live entertainment, and Angel’s Rock Bar and Howl At the Moon attract audiences as well. The retail part of 4th Street Live can’t claim quite as many offering though, just Foot Locker, T-Mobile, and CVS Pharmacy. But the site does host a number of concerts throughout the year which attracts people from all walks of life. Anyone looking for a good meal, time to party with friends, or a fun place to bring out-of-town guests will find that 4th Street Live has a little something for everyone. And now that Tavern on Fourth will soon be a new option for good times with its newly acquired downtown Louisville real estate, 4th Street Live will get even livelier. Search all Louisville Real Estate for sale by area, price, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

Louisville Home for Sale 2117 Village Dr Louisville KY 40205

2012-03-17T01:51:00-07:00

This is your perfect Highlands home on one of the more popular streets! Absolutely great curb appeal with beautifully landscaped and manicured lawn as you pull up to the home. As you enter the home you are greeted with large open rooms, a view all the way through to the back yard, and gorgeous original hardwood floors throughout, including pine hardwood floors in the kitchen - amazing! Lots of large windows in every room, lots of natural light, original woodwork and great paint colors make this home move-in ready. True Highlands living room has a large fireplace, coffered ceiling that extends into the dining room, and exquisite built-in book shelves. Need a home office? There is a perfect room as you enter the home that is a great space for an office, den or play room. Entertain in your dining room that conveniently connects to the living room and kitchen - large enough for a good-sized table, china cabinet and butler's serving table. The cook of the household will love the updated kitchen with lots of white cabinets, Corian countertops, and perfect layout. Place a small table and chairs and enjoy the view to the backyard while having your morning coffee. Relax in the wonderful family room addition that matches perfectly with the original features of the home. This room is large enough for comfortable seating and dining area and also has a great view to your beautiful backyard. The large master suite has a walk-in closet, large private bathroom, and a special bonus - an in-suite laundry room - You don't find many homes in the Highlands with walk-in closets, on-suite bathrooms or a laundry on the second floor! Plus there is a small separate office area off the master suite that could be an extra office or nursery. All the bedrooms are large, have great hardwood floors, lots of light and ready for your family and guests. The large unfinished basement has lots of storage space, as clean as you have ever seen, and a bonus, it has been waterproofed! The large private backyard has a privacy fence and also large bushes and trees for added privacy. Enjoy the upcoming Spring days entertaining and Barbequing on your large deck, and enjoy the additional, beautifully landscaped yard. Another bonus for the Highlands - - a two car garage! Additionally, the home has a gorgeous, unique tile roof! For all available homes for sale in the Louisville area please visit: Louisville Real Estate

When Decor Isn't Your Friend

2012-03-10T12:26:00-07:00

Selling your Louisville home can be a fierce, stressful ordeal in a market like this one. Ideally, homeowners will do everything they can to prepare their house for a sell, especially when they’re faced with competition from neighboring houses and a weakened real estate market. But sometimes, it’s the small things that make a difference in the eye of a buyer. I’m talking about decor. What pleases your eye may not please everyone else’s, and sometimes buyers just can’t get passed those lace curtains, floral wallpaper, and plastic greenery draped on top of your cabinets. Those things—while stylish to you—can make your home appear dated and cluttered. We all have our own design sense, but when selling your home, sometimes no design sense is better. If you’re putting your Louisville home on the market, remember that less is more. That means paint your home a fresh, neutral color, and get a head-start on packing by removing knick-knacks, personal framed photographs, and extra furniture (how many side tables to you really need)? Buyers are not coming into your house to see your collection of porcelain dolls or family photos. In fact, those things can be so much of a distraction to a buyer that they leave without a real sense of your home’s space. So when selling, go the minimalist approach. Clear your rooms and allow buyers to picture how their stuff would fit and how they would feel living there. But most importantly, make it feel like home. For all of your real estate needs in the Louisivlle, KY area, please visit Louisville, KY Real Estate.

Louisville Luxury Homes Love Leather

2012-03-06T05:09:00-07:00

Home designers have preached it for years – when it comes to decorating a home, the most important characteristic in addition to color is texture. And when it comes to upholstery, luxury homes in Louisville often choose leather as their furniture covering of choice. When home owners choose a full leather living room set or just accent a room with a single chair, leather has a way of exuding a high-dollar, first class look. One reason for leather’s appeal is that it’s amazingly durable and lasts about four times as long as fabric. Also, people prone to allergies and asthma generally prefer leather because fabrics can harbor lots more dust mites. But let’s face it – the main appeal of leather is its look and feel. It simply feels good against the skin because leather is able to release moisture through its fibers into human pores. Because of this, it becomes even softer over time, and many people feel the aging process makes leather look better with each passing year. When we used to refer to “leather furniture,” we meant brown couches or recliners. But today, leather dining chairs, decorative ottomans and even cowhide rugs in a wide variety of colors are easy to find for any size home. But it’s true that not everyone is a great fan. Leather can puncture when sharp shoe buckles or jewelry scratch its surface, and failing to clean the armrests can result in wearing from the build-up of body oil over time. Also, some people simply don’t find it as comfortable as fabric. Depending on the clothing a person wears, leather can be very slippery and cause a person to have to struggle to sit up straight. In the summer, bare legs in shorts of skirts can feel sticky against it, and in the winter, some folks prefer the warmth of fabric when cuddling up on the sofa under a blanket. Also, people concerned about the use of animal parts in manufacturing probably won’t choose leather either. But perhaps the biggest downside is the price. Leather can cost 25%-50% more than fabric, so this alone will keep some consumers away. Despite the high costs and potential negatives though, leather continues to be a popular upholstery choice. And making that investment pay off over the long run takes some care. Here are a few tips for keeping your leather furniture in excellent condition: Regularly dust leather furniture with a dry cloth. In fact, keep a couple dry cloths set aside simply for this purpose so that any residue from other surfaces in your home don’t get back on your leather. Keep an eye out for sharp objects – buckles on shoes, pointy jewelry, and even your pet’s nails. Leather does scratch, so the only way to prevent this is to make sure sharp objects don’t come in contact with it. Always remove spills as soon as possible with a clean cloth. Never use soap or try to soak stains with water. A couple times each year, wipe your leather furniture down with a damp cloth. Use only a tiny bit of distilled water, not tap water because it can stain. Afterwards, add some moisture by using a conditioner without color that is specifically made for leather. Just rub a few drops into the upholstery with a soft cloth and wipe dry with a clean one. Although some folks may not choose leather for their homes, many luxury home-owners in Louisville find leather to be the most attractive, classic, comfortable upholstery available. As home designers have told us for years, texture is a vital element in room design, and for many, leather provides not only amazing texture but an excellent long-term investment as well. Search Louisville Luxury Homes for all available upscale homes, condos and farms for sale.

Louisville Arts Scene

2012-02-26T08:30:00-07:00

Louisville has long been known for its vibrant arts community. Thanks to the J.B. Speed Art Museum, the innovative downtown gallery scene, the Louisville Ballet and first class dramatic arts at Actors’ Theatre, Louisville has become a prominent player on the national arts stage for a city of its size. Now, in an effort to cut arts costs while maintaining high performance quality, some prime Louisville, Kentucky real estate will take center stage as it becomes home to visiting Actors’ artists. The historic building at Third and Main streets downtown now houses 18 one-bedroom and studio apartments on the third through fifth floors for visiting performers. Because Actors’ draws talent from far and wide for its cutting edge mix of classic and progressive theater arts, Actor’s houses roughly 170 visiting performers each year. In the past, most stayed at an apartment complex on Broadway that the theater rented, but now artists will be able to live in the heart of downtown right next to the theater. The first performers begin arriving this week in preparation for the 36th annual Humana Festival of New American Plays that will begin performances at the end of the month. The $1.15 million dollar project is funded primarily by FBM Properties, which has owned the building for many years. Additionally, in-kind contracting services were provided by Cardinal Services, and in-kind design expertise and contemporary artwork came from Kevin Troxall Design.While the project’s main goal was to provide a way for Actors Theatre to reduce their housing expenditure by having visiting artists stay next door to the theater, it accomplishes other objectives as well. It allows performers to be more closely in touch with the heart of downtown, contributes to the significant downtown revitalization already going on, and marries two of the cities greatest loves–Louisville, Kentucky real estate and the city’s dynamic arts scene. Check out the cool condo's available in the downdown area: Louisville Downtown Real Estate

Louisville Old & New

2012-02-27T06:09:00-07:00

Take advantage of the powerful Louisville MLS Listing search tools that are found on this website. With these MLS search tools you can gather information about real estate in Louisville, KY.

Outdoor Living in Louisville

2012-02-29T16:18:00-07:00

Louisville has been blessed this year with a mild winter (at least so far), and the warmer temperatures of late have made us all anxious for spring. Along with more hours of daylight and beautiful flowers in bloom, spring also brings with the enticing invitation to spend as much time as possible outside. But a moldy, unadorned deck is no setting for springtime fun. An outdoor oasis is more the ticket this season. Whether your goal is to enhance your affordable real estate in Fern Creek by updating your current deck, or you have grander plans in mind—such as adding a sumptuous outdoor living room to your luxury home in Lake Forest—many of us who live in Derby City are now beginning our outside-of-the-home improvements. Designers everywhere have one important piece of advice when it comes to improving outdoor spaces—make it like the inside! We spend countless hours picking out just the right curtains for our great room or finding the perfect kitchen table for the inside of our home but then be content to go to the local home improvement warehouse to purchase a sale-priced patio set and call it a day. But our outdoor spaces need every bit as much attention as our indoor rooms. Taking a few simple indoor design practices outside can make all the difference.An essential item in outdoor design is fabric. Gone are the days of uncomfortable, sticky patio cushions in less-than-attractive colors. Today, there are countless options for fabrics to use on outdoor furniture that are able to both withstand weather and provide a great way to extend an indoor color scheme outside. And just as we accent our indoor sofas and chairs with pillows, we can now adorn our outdoor furniture in the same way.Another decorating element that we often forget when designing outside is lighting. Indoors, we carefully choose floor and table lamps, ceiling mounted chandeliers and recessed lighting. The same should be true for our outdoor living spaces as well. Those that are enclosed can be appointed with the same kinds of lighting features, including chandeliers. But even our open-air decks and patios need lighting accents, too. Today, a variety of floor and table lamps specially designed to hold up to the elements provide a great way to turn an outdoor space into a cozy outdoor living room.Finally, we need to consider the art work outside. Certainly, nature provides a lot of beauty by itself, but adding a few other touches can soften an outdoor space. We would never be content with completely bare walls indoors, so we shouldn’t accept the same outside either. Here again, the choices for outdoor art and accents are virtually unlimited today.Spring will soon be upon us, and those who are anxious to spend quality time outside know that creating an outdoor space that is as warm and inviting as the inside of our home is essential. Whether we want to spend just a couple hundred dollars on our affordable real estate in Fern Creek or add an expensive, elegant outdoor living room to our luxury home in Lake Forest, Louisville is ready to make outdoor living both beautiful and fun. For all of your real estate needs in the Louisivlle, KY area, please visit Louisville, KY Real Estate.

How the Housing Market Affects Individual Homeowners

2012-03-07T06:16:00-07:00

As goes the Louisville housing market, so goes household finances. At least, that's the way it is for homeowners. For most homeowners, their house is a primary component and the single greatest ticket item in their financial portfolio. As such, their level of wealth fluctuates with the ever-changing price of housing. When housing costs are stable and trending upward, the equity in houses increases, as was the case during the housing boom from 1995 through 2006. When this happens, homeowners gain wealth, are able to borrow against the increased value (through an equity withdrawal), and experience greater freedom to spend and invest. When housing costs recede, however, the equity decreases as wealth disappears. If home values plummet dramatically—as occurred when the housing bubble burst in October of 2007—it is possible for a homeowner to find himself or herself in a negative equity position with a mortgage that exceeds the value of the home. In such a case, the homeowner may decide to simply walk away and allow the creditor—usually a bank—to foreclose on the house. Additionally, due to the interconnectivity of the economy, the price of housing impacts the cost of other goods, the value of currency, the rate of inflation, interest rates, and the overall economic health of the nation. Indeed, fluctuations in one market can have ramifications around the world. These are not merely issues for accountants; they can greatly affect the household expenses for virtually every member of society. For those seeking to purchase a home in a volatile housing market, they may have difficulty acquiring the necessary financing. Even though the cost of a home may be relatively low (adding to the loss of the current owner), potential creditors may demand a pristine credit rating before agreeing to loan money. Ultimately, a poor housing market can negatively affect homeowners and buyers alike. The good news is that the economy tends to be cyclical. What goes around comes around. The housing market has always endured ebbs and flows, so it is inevitable that poor market conditions will improve over time. By budgeting wisely, living within self-imposed margins, and taking the necessary steps to endure an economic downturn, it is possible to emerge safely on the other side. For all of your real estate needs in the Louisivlle, KY area, please visit Louisville, KY Real Estate.

Three Home Staging Tips for Louisville Home Sellers

2012-02-01T14:07:00-07:00

Selling a home is so much more than listing it with a good agent and hoping for the best. One of the best things that a Louisville home seller can do to make sure that his house sells fast and for the best price is to “stage” it properly. Once thought of as an unnecessary “extra,” something only interior designers and real estate experts knew much about, home staging is now a must for anyone who wants to make top dollar. Even making a few simple changes—some that cost absolutely nothing—will make a world of difference when it comes time for the open house. Don’t forget about the outsideToo often, people focus all of their attention inside a home and do nothing to the outside of the house. But when you are selling Louisville real estate a home’s exterior is the first impression that any would-be home buyer will notice. Perhaps the cheapest way to make that first impression a good one is to tackle the weeds. Get rid of all weeds as well as anything that is dead or simply unattractive, and remember that “simple” is often better than overgrown and complicated. Also, keep in mind that the outdoors is the new indoors. People today often see their deck or porch outside as another living room. Make sure the outdoor areas of your house not only make people feel welcome but also tempt them to put up their feet and relax a while. Put aside the personalWe love to decorate our homes with pictures of our families and friends and display other knick-knacks and personal items that mean so much to us. But when a house is on the market, it’s best to box up those items and decorate instead with a small number of more impersonal accents. Prospective buyers have a hard time picturing themselves in a home that clearly belongs to someone else. The other important step in depersonalizing a home is evaluating the color scheme. You might love having bright pink or deep purple on the walls, but such loud colors appeal only to a limited number of personal tastes. For $20 bucks, you can pick up a gallon of paint in a clean, neutral shade which will appeal to a whole lot more prospective buyers. Furniture: less is moreEvaluate the furnishings in your home to see if how many you have and the way they are positioned actually help or hurt your chances at a successful sale. Many people try to stuff too many pieces of furniture in a room. Maybe you like to have two couches, a love seat, two chairs and a recliner in your family room because you need lots of seating for all the entertaining you frequently do. That’s fine when your house is not on the market, but when it’s for sale, all of these pieces can make even a large room look small. Consider leaving just the couch and loveseat while the house is listed and arrange them to allow for an easy, smooth traffic pattern through the room. This will help buyers be able to appreciate the real size of the room and picture their own furniture in it. It doesn’t take loads of money to stage a house for the best possible sale. Some simple fixes—that cost little or no money—can help increase the likelihood of a sale, reduce your home’s time on the market or even help justify the sale price. You can even consider it getting a jump-start on the moving process! Louisville Real Estate - The best site to search all available homes for sale on the Louisville MLS.

3536 Dayton Ave St Matthews KY 40207

2012-02-01T08:45:00-07:00

You have stumbled upon the best find in St. Matthews! Price has just been reduced by $5000 and sure to go quick! Home is a short walk down the block straight into Seneca Park! This adorable three bedroom dollhouse has a large, park like backyard fully fenced in by wood picket fencing. The fantastic eat-in kitchen has a large breakfast bar and opens fully to the cozy family room which boasts lots of natural sunlight. You won't find a more inviting and open kitchen and family room. Perfect for being close to your loved ones and for entertaining! The master bedroom is huge and has a wonderful walk-in closet. There are one and a half baths and also a tiled, enclosed, working shower in the basement that is not counted in the listing. Beautiful hardwood floors greet you at the front door and spread throughout much of the first floor. The partially finished basement is currently used as a bonus family room and 4th bedroom, but does not have an egress window. The unfinished part of the basement offers tons of storage, laundry area, and lots of great potential. This charming home has so much more to see! Come take a look for yourself! A beautiful St. Matthews home in the most incredible location! The absolute best website to search for Homes for Sale in St Matthews

Home for Sale 405 Wendover Ave Louisville KY 40207

2012-01-31T15:18:00-07:00

Welcome home to desirable St. Matthews! Come home from work at the end of the week, park your car, and walk to shops, restaurants, bars and more! Highlights of this home include, recently refinished hardwood floors through-out most of the first floor, a second floor master suite, and partially finished basement. As you walk up the front steps of the house you will be taken by the inviting front porch that is large enough to be an outdoor room in nice weather. The hardwood floors in the living room allow for a welcoming space to enjoy the wood burning fireplace, relax with friends and family or just hang out and watch television. A charming arched doorway leads you to the spacious dining area; also with hardwood floors. Another arched doorway leads to the 2 first floor bedrooms and full bath. The full bath really showcases the old-world charm of when the home was built with the original basket weave black and white tile floors, and functional built-in drawers and cabinets to use for linen and toiletry storage. The dining area is separated from the kitchen with an area that would make a great butler's pantry. The kitchen is full of natural light, and has ample cabinets and counter space for the cook in the house. Kitchen appliances that will remain with the house include a stainless steel refrigerator and dishwasher, drop in cook top and a built-in oven. The second floor master suite is divided into 3 separate areas. The updated master bath is in-between the sleeping area and small sitting/dressing area. Features of the master bath include ceramic tile walk-in shower that has dual shower heads, shelf nook with glass shelves and small storage area, newer pedestal sink, and ceramic tile floors. A partially finished basement rounds out this fabulous find in St. Matthews! Schedule your private showing today! To View all St Matthews Homes for sale please visit Homes for Sale in St Matthews.

Home for Sale 614 Fatima Ln Louisville KY 40207

2012-01-31T15:07:00-07:00

Look that this fantastic St. Matthews home in MaryHill Estates! This is a great walkout ranch with a open floor plan; perfect for someone wanting 1 first floor living. As you walk in you will notice the open feel of the home. The current owners opened the home up giving it a fresh updated feel. The living area on the first floor has a bank of windows letting in the natural light and views of the rear yard. It also boasts beautiful hardwood floors and a fireplace. The kitchen overlooks the family room with an island and stainless steel built-in gas range. PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING! All 4 bedrooms are down the hall and have windows that have been replaced and large closets. The master is comfortable with a remodeled master bath with granite countertop, tiled shower and glass doors. The walkout basement is spacious and perfect for entertaining with a 2nd fireplace and play area. There is another room that can be used for an office as well. There is plenty of storage as well in the unfinished areas. This home is a perfect location to St Matthews or the Brownsboro Rd. corridor. This is a rare offering in this neighborhood so make your appointment today!

Louisville Southern Living's Tastiest Town?

2012-01-17T14:42:00-07:00

If you live in Louisville and have been on Facebook lately, you’ve likely had pleas from your local foodie friends encouraging you to vote for Louisville on Southern Living’s website as the “Tastiest Southern Town.” The Derby City right now ranks a close second place to – of all towns – LaFayette! We’re way ahead of the rest of the pack, including cities better known for their restaurant scene, like New Orleans, Charlestown, Raleigh, and Birmingham. But LaFayette? Most of us born and bred here are scratching our heads and saying, “Are you kidding me?” Nothing against LaFayette, of course, but we all know what an amazing town Louisville is for lovers of fine cuisine, unique fare, and eclectic dining experiences. And this year marks a big anniversary for a key player in the restaurant renaissance downtown and the revival of the East Market Distract, known to locals as NuLu. The Mayan Café, at 813 East Market Street, which traces its roots to the food truck that Chef Ucan started in 1997 and then became a brick-and-mortar restaurant called The Myan Gypsie, features authentic Mayan cuisine and is celebrating its birthday with a special menu that runs from now until February 18. Having recently added liquor to its beer and wine offerings, the Café is featuring tequilas during this time as well as some inventive ceviches. But Café regulars, take heart! Many traditional favorites, like the ever-popular Tok-sel, made with Great Northern beans instead of the usual limas, will be on the menu as well.By offering its Mayan Market Mondays the past three years, the Mayan Café has become a central restaurant in the local food movement. Featuring genuine far-to-table meals every Monday night from June through August, the Café highlights a different local farm each week by preparing its meats, cheeses, or vegetables. Chef Bruce Ucan, who learned growing up in the Yucatan that the best food is that which grows outside your door, is at the Famers’ Market every weekend. Creative and always ready for a challenge, he looks for “the vegetable that no one wants to buy” and invents amazing dishes with it.In the humble opinion of those of us who call Louisville home, our city is definitely the “tastiest southern town,” whether or not someone else unjustly wrests the distinction from our grasp (or just wins with more votes). And one of the reasons for this is the Mayan Café, now celebrating five wonderful years of authentic Mayan cuisine, a farm-to-table approach to dining, and an atmosphere of fun and clever invention. With any luck, the Mayan Café will be around for many more years to make sure that there’s never any doubt in anyone’s mind which southern town is the tastiest. Search all Louisville Real Estate for sale by area, price, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

Home for Sale 3908 Winchester Rd Louisville KY 40207

2012-01-31T06:55:00-07:00

This welcoming Cape Cod home for sale St. Matthews has been in the same family for over 70 years, but has been lovingly updated and cared for! You will be charmed before you even walk in the door! The covered front porch is a great place to take in the beauty of the area. Upon entering the home, you will see the beautiful wood burning fireplace in the living/family room that makes a great centerpiece for entertaining. The LARGE eat in kitchen off the living/family room is sure to be a cooks dream! Brand new stove/oven and microwave are in the kitchen, as well as a gorgeous tile back splash. The dining area portion of the kitchen offers additional storage in two of the original corner cabinets that have been extremely well preserved. Two bedrooms and a full bath on the first floor can be closed off from the living area to allow for peace, quiet and privacy. Upstairs is a very large bedroom that would make an excellent master bedroom! The unfinished basement is open and could easily be finished for extra living space. The one car garage is attached via an enclosed breezeway, and has an extra storage area in the back of the garage that opens to the fenced in backyard. This home is move-in ready! Just bring your personal items, and you will be home, sweet home. Search all St Matthews Homes for Sale from the comfort of your home

55,000 Degrees

2012-01-31T06:35:00-07:00

Although winter weather has descended upon Louisville and will almost certainly be around through February, the temperature here is surprisingly high. In fact, it’s 55,000 degrees! An innovative public-private partnership launched last year, 55,000 Degrees is a collaborative effort in the Louisville area to raise the number of college degree holders in town by 55,000 by 2020. Specifically, the goal is to have 40,000 more bachelor’s degree holders and 15,000 more with associate’s degrees. Another objective is for 15,000 of the total number to be earned by African-Americans.Why the target of 55,000 degrees? In partnership with the Brookings Institution, the Greater Louisville Project released the first of its annual Competitive Cities Reports in 2005, which compares Louisville with peer cities of similar size in the three key areas referred to as “deep drivers” for economic competitiveness: education, jobs and quality of place. Despite Louisville’s other high rankings, Louisville was in the unique position of ranking low in the number of degree holders but had the most residents of any peer city with some hours of college credit. Community leaders could see the amazing potential if those adults who began college but left to raise children, care for elderly parents or accept full-time employment were encouraged to return to school and earn their degrees.At the end of its first year, 55,000 Degrees published its first progress report, and the results are very encouraging. From 2008–2009, the last year for which numbers are available, the number of working-age adults with degrees jumped by roughly 7,000. This represents a 14 percent jump in associate’s degrees and a seven percent jump in bachelor’s degrees in just one year. All 21 of the institutions of higher education in the Greater Louisville area reported an increase in degrees awarded, and there was a 20 percent increase in the number of working-age adults in Louisville who chose to go back to school. Despite the exciting numbers, community leaders recognize that even similar gains each year won’t get us to the 55,000 benchmark by 2020. Even more needs to be done. A partnership between 55K, Jefferson County Public Schools and Louisville Metro Government is expanding the Close the Deal initiative that helps high school seniors apply to, access financial aid for and prepare to enter college. Likewise, 55K is working with Greater Louisville, Inc., our local chamber of commerce, to implement a new program to assist businesses in helping their employees go back to school. Yes, the future looks bright . . . and the temperature in Derby City is definitely rising! Search all Louisville Real Estate for sale by area, price, year built, square footage on Louisville's best MLS search site.

Winter Maintenance for Homes in Louisville

2012-01-30T09:15:00-07:00

Black Friday is now a distant memory, Santa can no longer be found at Mall St. Matthews and all the holiday decorations have been put away for another year. That can only mean one thing – the birth of a new year is upon us. And that means it’s time once again to make New Year’s resolutions. We could promise anew actually to use our gym membership this year or we could try yet again to swear off chocolate or ice cream. But perhaps a better pledge for 2012 might be to get our homes in Louisville ready for winter. That’s a resolution that will not only bring us comfort during the coldest months of the year, but it may also be something we can accomplish more successfully than the latest fad diet or strenuous exercise program. Since Louisville winters usually bring a few snow storms with average temperatures in the 20s during January and February, making sure that your house is ready to keep you warm should be a top priority. January is not too late to make some simple changes or modifications that will produce results you will benefit from before spring rolls in. Here are a few winter home maintenance tips that will keep you toasty and save you money as well! Change out your furnace filters and inspect the insulation around the crawlspace and attic. Make sure that the seals around plumbing, lighting fixtures and the attic door are tight to keep air from escaping. If you have double-paned windows, you’re in great shape. These help keep the heat in and the cold out. If you don’t have this kind of window though, there are still things you can do to help. Replacing the screens with storm windows will go a long way in keeping your house warm. If purchasing storm windows isn’t in the budget this year, then get a plastic film sheet kit from a home improvement or hardware store. This will only last one season, but it’s an inexpensive fix that works. If unusually cold temperatures are in the forecast, let your cold and hot water faucets drip during the night to keep the pipes from freezing. Even though it’s winter, don’t forget about the yard! Trim branches of trees and shrubs to make sure they aren’t too close to the house. Ice-covered limbs – like those we saw during the January 2010 ice storm – can cause a lot of damage when they fall onto the roofs or against the sides of our homes in Louisville. Even though the holiday festivities are over, there’s still quite a lot that can be done to make this winter the best ever. And by turning some basic winter home maintenance activities into our New Year’s resolution this year, we’re likely to be far more successful than we were getting into our old skinny jeans or developing rock hard abs like we tried to do in the past. Plus, we’ll save some money and have the satisfaction of knowing our families will be warmer in their homes in Louisville this year.

New Listing 102 Fenley Ave Louisville, KY 40206

2012-01-18T13:21:00-07:00

New Listing in the St. Matthews/Crescent Hill area! This picture-perfect home features exterior amenities like an adorable white picket fence, red shutters and front door. 102 Fenley Avenue is clean, bright and airy. This 3 bedroom 1 bath Cape Cod includes original hardwood, crown molding throughout, an updated bathroom and many large windows. The large, sun-lit eat-in kitchen is roomy and inviting and the white cabinets and open layout make it feel even larger. The 2 bedrooms on the first floor are quite spacious and the second floor Master is very attractive with built-in shelving, 2 cedar lines closets and a large dressing area that is currently being used as a nursery. The back yard offers a covered patio, a full fence, lovely landscaping and an ENORMOUS 2.5 car garage, the perfect man cave. This home is conveniently located near the intersection of Cannons Lane and Frankfort Ave, a prime Louisville location! This home is within walking distance to restaurants like Boombozz, Bluegrass Burgers, Simply Thai and DiOrio's Pizza. The Vogue Center is only a few blocks away and Seneca Park is only 1 mile down the road. This home is truly a must see! Schedule your showing today! Brad Long Group agents are professional Buyer's Agents helping Buyers of Louisville, KY Real Estate. Search here for Crescent Hill Homes for Sale.

Taylorsville Ranch for Sale

2012-01-26T12:45:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group has a new listing in Spencer County! 68 Woodson Court is located in Taylorsville, KY nestled on 2 acres on a quiet cul-de-sac. This ranch has 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Built by Williard Richard, this home stands the test of time. This home features beautiful ardwoods in the bedrooms, neutral carpet throughout the home, and a roomy kitchen with double ovens. The master bedroom includes a master bathroom with two closets, one of which is a walk-in. The laundry room features additional cabinetry and a walk-in pantry. Each room in the home hosts its own thermostat. 68 Woodson Court is like your own private retreat, however it is only minutes from Taylorsville Lake and restaurants such as Lynda's Grill, Legends, Moby Dick Seafood Restaurant and Family Diner. It is also less than a mile away from Spencer County High School, Taylorsville Elementary School and Hillview Academy. This is a great home at a great price! Schedule your showing today! Brad Long Group agents are professional Buyer's Agents helping Buyers of Louisville, KY Real Estate.

Home for Sale 1922 Wrocklage Ave Louisville, KY 40205

2011-12-13T03:29:00-07:00

Totally updated cape cod in the heart of the Louisville Highlands. Enjoy the charm and features of an older Louisville Highlands Home with new amenities included in this stunning renovation. As you enter, a large family room greets you equipped with built in book cases, fireplace and hardwood floors. You'll love having a gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, travertine tile floors, granite tops, designer tile glass back splash, high end stainless steel appliances and wine refrigerator. Nicely sized two bedrooms on the first floor with a rain shower, claw foot tub and travertine tile flooring. Upstairs you will find a large master suite with a vaulted family room with skylights. Need an office? The master suite includes a bonus room perfect for an office, nursery, or just a huge closet! The master bath is light and airy with a skylight allowing plenty of natural light. Venture outside to your large back yard(243 feet deep), new patio with hot tub that remains, and a partial covered porch/deck. This home has a newer roof and A/C and Furnace. You wont find a better home at this price! Call Today for your private showing! Brad Long Group agents are Professional Buyer's Agents helping Buyers of Louisville, KY Real Estate. Search here for Highlands Homes for Sale

A Christmas Day walk along Louisville's Main St

2011-12-26T11:07:00-07:00

As Louisville grew from just a stop along the Ohio River to portage around the falls, to one of the largest western cities in the new United States, it developed its street system, much of which remains the same today as it was 200 years ago. As in most cities, Louisville’s retail, wholesale and socializing street in the central business district was named “Main St.” and this was where the majority of the businesses involved in this trade were located. We are fortunate in Louisville to have many of these 19th century buildings along Main St. still intact as opposed to the parking lots and wastelands created along many other streets in the name of “Urban Renewal”. When walking down Main St. always look at the details in the old buildings and you may find a bit of history of Louisville’s distant past. Many of the businesses that constructed these wonderful buildings had their company’s name, prominently attached to the structure. Most of these companies are long gone, however with a little research you can find out some interesting facts about our Louisville history. An example of this is the Bamberger Bloom & Co. building on West Main Street, described asfollows in the 1882 book: History of the Ohio Falls Cities and Their Counties – Louisville “In the year 1872 the firm, which in the meantime had added several partners and had changed its name to Bamberger, Bloom & Co., moved into its present beautiful quarters, having found it necessary to erect a building especially adapted to its colossal trade. No description of this structure nor further comment upon the business are necessary , as the firm of Bamberger, Bloom & Co., its house, and its business are known to every citizen of Louisville, and are brought to the attention of every one who visits the city.” After the failed 1848 German Revolution, many thousands of revolutionaries migrated to the United States due to their commitment to freedom and liberty. These migrants were extremely well educated and included: scientists, teachers, lawyers and journalists. Nathan Bloom was one of the newly arrived Germans and began his career in the US as a migrant peddler, going from town to town, selling what he could carry with him. After several years he opened a general store in Owensboro, KY. In 1852 Bloom moved to Louisville with his brother in law, Julius Bamberger, and together they founded the wholesale dry goods business Bamberger, Bloom & Co. The company flourished for years and allowed peddlers of the day to start many thriving businesses in the fast growing cities and towns of the new western states and territories, such as Kentucky. Long regarded as one of the most solid financial institutions in Louisville - It caused much surprise when the company filed for bankruptcy in October of 1895. The owner stated: “The failure is due to large losses in the South and to the fact that for some years past a considerable portion of the best part of the firm’s Southern business has been taken from it by wealthy and enterprising St. Louis rivals, while other portions have gone to Chicago competitors.” It would be fascinating to learn if any of today’s retailers may, in some way, owe their existence to credit issued by, or merchandise bought from, this early Louisville business – Bamberger, Bloom & Co. Nathan Bloom & Julius Bamberger are both buried in The Temple Cemetery located at 2716 Preston Highway along with many of their descendants. A bit of Louisville Historical Ramblings from The Brad Long Real Estate Group who proudly have the opportunity to sell Louisville Real Estate in our wonderful city.

Home for Sale 6201 Burnham Pl Prospect KY 40059

2011-12-18T12:14:00-07:00

Back on Market as of 11/10/2011 -- and reduced $55,000 for quick sale! Short Sale, but a signature home with superb amenities, lots of space, cul-de-sac lot and a view of Hays-Kennedy park! This superb Prospect Home for Sale has a grand curb appeal which is only enhanced when you step into the two-story foyer with inlaid hardwoods, followed by the two-story great room with 18-foot ceilings, extensive windows, built-ins for electronics and your book collection, see–through fireplace, access to spacious deck and incredible natural light. The formal library and dining room adjoin the foyer as well, with recent hardwoods which continue in the dining room & kitchen. The dining room features gorgeous recessed trey ceilings and dentil molding, supplemented by a wonderful butler’s pantry with wine rack between the dining room and gourmet kitchen. The kitchen is both very open and functional with abundant cabinetry, solid surface tops, double ovens, center island, planning desk and large adjacent eating area with vaulted ceiling. In the spacious first-floor master suite, you will find a corner entertainment center, fireplace, huge double walk-ins and stunning views of wooded fall-away lot. Master bath features dual vanities, separate shower and whirlpool, neutral tile flooring. Upstairs, you will find four very large bedrooms, two shared full baths, many walk-in closets and a second laundry room. You have to see the view from the upstairs rear of this home to believe it! Sprawling finished basement provides a wet bar, elegant media room, HUGE family/game room with third fireplace, dining or bunko area, and stunning executive office with cherry cabinetry and 15-light French doors, built-in work surfaces and two corner cabinets (one wired for media). A sixth large bedroom with adjacent bath (currently used as fitness center)and two storage rooms round out the basement. Professionally landscaped lot features an irrigation system and mature plantings. Lower-level screened-in patio and ground floor wrap-around deck provide spectacular views of wooded fall-away lot, Hays-Kennedy Park and points afar! 3-car side entry garage, accessed through ground-floor laundry just off kitchen. This custom designed and built home offers 8,100 feet of gorgeous interior living space sited on a beautiful lot! House needs cosmetic freshening but can easily be a stunning property again! Call today for showing! Priced at $595,000 If you find yourself curious about the local real estate market, please visit Prospect KY Homes for Sale to learn about the area.

Home for Sale 7414 cedar Bluff Ct Prospect KY 40059

2011-12-18T12:29:00-07:00

$75,000 Price Reduction- Seller wants contract before the end of the year! You've just found the best deal in Estates of Hunting Creek. This 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom home, is situated on 1 acre. This gorgeous, sloping, private walk-out lot backs up to woods and a creek. Upon entering this home, you'll find a two story foyer with wood floors, leading you to great room with fireplace, stained wood-working, and custom built-in cabinetry. The cook of your family will love having plenty of cabinet and counter space with Whirlpool double ovens. The living room boasts trey ceilings and a Palladian window, providing an abundance of natural light. Across from your living room, find the formal dining room, also with trey ceilings and Palladian window- perfect for entertaining! Upstairs you'll find the oversized Master suite with a boxed-beam hip vaulted ceiling. The master bath features a corner tub, with separate shower and vanities, and walk-in closet. There are an additional 3 large bedrooms upstairs, with a full bath. The finished walk-out basement leads out to a prime space for entertaining guests. There is also a covered porch and open deck off of the kitchen upstairs. The basement includes a fireplace and kitchenette, and another bedroom and full bath- perfect for a guest retreat. See Louisville's seasons at their finest! Don't forget to check out the tranquil Koi pond in the back yard, with beautiful fish and landscaping. You won't find another home of this size, at this price! Call today for your private showing! You can learn more about the area at Prospect KY Homes for Sale

Home for Sale 2633 Gardiner Ln Louisville KY 40205

2011-12-17T16:53:00-07:00

Fantastic Highlands Real Estate opportunity. Beautiful four bedroom Cape Cod with hardwood floors throughout. Enter large living room with lots of light through picture window. Living room gives way to dining area and flows into large eat-in-kitchen with newer GE appliances. Laundry room off kitchen. First floor also features spacious Master Bedroom and an additional bedroom as well as full bath with ceramic tile floor. Upstairs are two bedrooms and a half bath. Replacement windows throughout (Pella windows on 2nd floor as well as two new energy saver window units), new sewer line to street, updated fixtures, neutral decor. Great value. This home is in MOVE-IN CONDITION! Priced at $137,500 Search all Highlands Homes for Sale by area, price, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

Home for Sale 1882 Douglass Blvd Louisville KY 40205

2011-12-17T16:27:00-07:00

Great Louisville Highlands Real Estate Location! Enter into a large living room showcasing hardwood floors, fireplace with brick surround and built-in bookcases. A lovely sun-room/sitting room is located off of the living room as well. The formal dining room is large with crown molding and has direct access to the kitchen. The kitchen is adequate and has an extra large 4x7 pantry/storage closet. A full bath and laundry complete the first floor. The second floor houses 3 nice sized bedrooms, a full bath, den, and sitting room/sun room! Hardwood floors are featured in each bedroom as well as the nice sized landing. The third floor contains an extra large Master Bedroom with walk-in closet and separate heating and cooling system. The basement is unfinished with another laundry area, and plenty of room for storage. The property offers a detached 2 car garage, great front porch, lots of windows for natural light, and the backyard is large and flat. See all of the pictures and schedule to show this wonderful home today! Priced at $230,000 You can learn more about the area at Louisville Highlands Homes for Sale.

Home for Sale 1613 Speed Ave Louisville KY 40205

2011-12-13T03:46:00-07:00

This charming Louisville Highlands home has great character with hardwood floors and big windows, and also is fantastically updated with a true master bedroom upstairs and 2 other full baths too! You'll love the large deck which is perfect for hanging out with friends. The fenced backyard and the two car garage are hard to find in this part of the Highlands. A great floorplan, classic decor, and 4 bedrooms are just a few of the great qualities that makes this home a real find! Check out the large eat-in kitchen, and a nice large living room. Storage is plentiful too as there are 7 closets! Super close to Bellarmine University. You can learn more about the Highlands area at Highlands of Louisville Homes for Sale.

Home for Sale 2331 Alta Ave Louisville, KY 40205

2011-12-11T09:34:00-07:00

An OUTSTANDING piece of Highlands real estate, 2331 Alta Ave. Louisville, KY 40205 is situated in one of the PREMIER LOCATIONS in all of the Louisville Area--only STEPS from our famed Cherokee Park. Do you need some quality time in Tuscany? Look no further than your backyard. You'll feel like you stepped into Italy once you open the back gate. A MEDITERRANEAN GARDEN and a lovely OUTDOOR DINING AREA will soothe your soul and make you forget you are in an urban area. This DOUBLE LOT allows you room to grow and expand your indoor or outdoor living space. The GARAGE/CARRIAGE HOUSE with a FINISHED LOFT is perfect for a private office or band practice. If entertaining is your passion, this home is equipped with a COOK'S KITCHEN designed for two gourmets to appreciate in separate spaces. The flow through the rooms allows for large parties to spread out and enjoy this fine home from many vantage points. From the SPA-LIKE MASTER BATH to the BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED POOL to the BASEMENT WORKSHOP, there is space for everyone to relax and enjoy fully. With beautiful HARDWOOD FLOORS and tasteful paint colors, this home is MOVE IN READY--ready for your artwork and loved trinkets to grace the walls and shelves. Call for your private showing today. 24 hour notice is much appreciated by the owners who like to prepare the home for your private tour. Search all Louisville Highlands Homes for Sale by area, price, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

Home for Sale 1203 Everett Ave Louisville, KY 40204

2011-12-13T03:10:00-07:00

Sophisticated Living surrounds you as you enter the front door of 1203 Everett Avenue Louisville, KY 40204 Located in the heart of The Louisville Highlands, this home has it all and then some!! Beautiful hardwood floors and raised ceilings decorate the rich character and architecture of this Cherokee Triangle Century Marker home. Great room with fireplace opens to the formal dining room where holiday memories will last a lifetime. Renovated kitchen with Thomasville custom cabinets maximize the chefs kitchen and will surprise you with the ample storage and mobile shelving. The kitchen also boasts top of the line appliances, raised breakfast bar and granite counter tops. Main level laundry and a half bath complete the first level. The second level includes three well appointed bedrooms with great closet space and an oversized full bath. The third level master suite lifts you away from reality with its serene color pallet, magnificent walk in closet, full bath and gas fireplace decorated by ocean colored glass tiles. The front yard is a maintenance free English Garden and the back includes a fabulous outdoor retreat for relaxing with a two tiered deck, trellis and hot tub which decorate back exterior of the property. Freshly painted interior, new carpet, replacement windows, heat pump with central air and gas heat on all levels,unfinished basement and crawl space for additional storage are just additional perks that make this home ready for you to move right in and live happily ever after. The owners have spared no expense on maintaining and improving this home with love and it shows. Off street parking is an option the owners explored but chose to expand the exterior entertaining space. Explore all Highlands Homes for Sale at Louisvilles premier Real Estate search engine.

St. Matthews Cape Cod in Greenleaves

2011-08-18T09:31:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group loves St. Matthews! Many of us live, have lived, and just enjoy having out in this wonderful community of in Louisville. That is why we are very proud of our new listing in the Greenleaves neighborhood, just off Zorn Avenue, in the north end of St. Matthews, 604 Jarvis Lane. Jarvis Lane is a well-known Louisville street, filled with some of the town’s finest homes. 604 Jarvis Lane is no exception. This home has been professionally designed with a unique and elegant European flair. This spectacular home is located on a corner lot with a large front yard offering plenty of mature trees and beautiful landscaping. The back of the home is designed as a courtyard, with all brick patio and brick privacy wall. This is the perfect place to relax in the shade or to entertain your friends and family. This 3 bedroom 3 full bath home features an array of fine fixtures and appliances throughout. The kitchen has custom solid walnut cabinets, granite countertops and island, slate floor, accent lighting and a flat screen TV. All appliances are stainless steel, made by Miele and include double ovens, gas stove, hood, dishwasher and built-in coffee/cappuccino machine. The study and living room both feature beautiful built-in shelving. Both the kitchen and living room offer access to the courtyard. The bathrooms in this home are truly remarkable! They are all en suite and custom designed with Handgrohe Starck fixtures. The master bathroom will make you think you are in your own private spa. This bath features a gorgeous Italian freestanding bathtub with waterfall faucet and hand shower. There is a separate shower with beautiful tile and rain shower head. The second bath on the second floor is designed in the fashion of a European wet room. Not only will you love this home, you will love the community. This home is close to everything! You only about a mile from Frankfort Avenue’s renowned shopping and dining and just a little farther to the heart of St. Matthews where you will find local hangouts like Molly Malone’s, Drake’s and 60 West Bistro. Popular Louisville restaurants nearby include El Mundo, Irish Rover, Pat’s Steak House and Porcini Restaurant, just to name a few. Take a moment to look at the photos of this home. You will not believe your eyes! To view ALL photos of 604 Jarvis Lane please click on the link below. 604 Jarvis Lane Louisville, KY 40207 View the virtual Tour here: Virtual Tour 604 Jarvis Lane To find all homes for sale in St. Matthews please go to: St. Matthews Real Estate

Home for Sale 3020 Long Creek Way Louisville KY 40245

2011-12-11T06:55:00-07:00

Looking for the most exclusive setting in all of Lake Forest? You've found it with this custom built home situated at 3020 Long Creek Way Louisville, KY in The Enclave of Lake Forest. Enjoy the peace and quiet, with each home site sitting on at least one acre and surrounded by woods, Floyd Fork, and protected against future development. Prepare to be wowed as you walk through the two large arched ornate steel doors that lead you into the massive two story foyer with wide plank hardwood and inlaid walnut trim. Host your dinner parties in the large elegant dining room with wainscoting, French doors, trey ceilings, and faux paint. The two story great room boasts triple arched French doors, hardwood floors, a custom built fireplace with detailed trimmed mantle, and a coffered stained ceiling. The cook of your family will love having top of the line stainless steel appliances to use, along with custom glazed maple cabinets and designer tile backsplash and granite counter tops. The vaulted Hearth Room also has custom built ins and a floor to ceiling fireplace. Relax in your Master Suite which has a hip vaulted ceiling with hardwood floors. The master bath has a barrel vaulted ceiling, walk around shower, custom tile, his and her vanities and a corner marble whirlpool tub. All the bedrooms upstairs offer private full baths and large walk-in closets. Additionally you will find a 2nd floor laundry. The finished basement offers plenty of options, including a room for your office and a room for a playroom. Enjoy custom stone arches throughout two large entertaining areas and enjoy the movie of your choice in the private theater room. No description could do justice to this homes beauty. The beautiful back yard has an inground pool, large covered porch with stamped concrete and an outdoor fireplace. All of this is surrounded by large mature trees. Come and see for yourself all the special touches this home includes-call today to set up your private appointment. To learn more about the Greater Louisville, KY area, please visit Louisville, KY Real Estate.

Home for Sale 1251 Equestrian Lakes Ln Finchville, KY 40022

2011-12-11T02:49:00-07:00

Luxury living in a country setting would best describe this 5,700 SF home, located at 1251 Equestrian Lakes Ln Finchville, KY on a 5.46 acre lake front lot. Experience the breath taking views from the six sets of French doors that open up to the 15 acre lake. This French Country style designed home has a well laid out main level that features an open concept living area and attention to every detail. The great room boasts 18' beamed ceiling and a stunning stone hearth and fireplace. The open design is perfect for entertaining, and family and friends will enjoy the lake views from virtually every room in the house. The kitchen is truly gourmet in design and amenities, with state of the art appliances, custom cabinetry and finishes, and exposed wood timber trusses. The serene master retreat is privately located, and offers relaxing amenities around every corner, from the fireplace to lake view deck access, to well-equipped dual walk-in closets. Enjoy the elegant, classic claw-foot style tub and beautiful country views. The finished walkout lower level offers a second entertaining area, complete with wet bar and fireplace. Three additional large bedrooms, two full baths, a second laundry room, and a fitness room complete the finished living space. There is ample storage in the large unfinished area, as well as a fourth garage stall that is accessible from the back of the house, perfect for storing outdoor items or toys for kids of all ages! Additionally, there is a 36' bonus room and area for another full bath that is framed out above the garage. Perfect for storage now or have it finished out for additional living space if desired. Check out this fabulous community with all the amenities: pool, pavilion, lakes, walking trails, playground, riding trails, covered arena, and full equestrian barn facility. Just 10 miles east of 265, on only 25 minutes to downtown Louisville and 45 minutes from Lexington. Priced at $1,500,000 Search all Louisville Real Estate for sale by area, price, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

Team night out at Doc Crow's

2011-11-29T05:31:00-07:00

Team night out at doc Crow's Here at the Brad Long Group, we sell Louisville real estate, however when we aren’t helping our clients buy and sell homes we have been known to cut loose and enjoy some of the fine establishments the city of Louisville has to offer. On this occasion we got the whole team out for a fun night at Doc Crow’s. Doc Crow’s Smokehouse and Raw Bar is located on Main Street, less than a block from the new KFC Yum Center on Whiskey Row. Located in a historic 140 year-old building which use to be Bonnie Brothers distillery, Doc Crow’s has a fun and modern atmosphere while still letting its patrons enjoy the original shotgun architecture, hardwood floor and wood wainscoting. Doc Crow’s is owned by Steven and Michael Ton who also own Basa, and Brett Davis who is a Master Sommelier, one of only about 115 in the country. As you may imagine, Doc Crow’s has an interesting and diverse wine list which offers customers half bottle and by-the-glass options as well as over 60 types of bourbon. The food at Doc Crows is southern chic, modern, costal, eclectic and delicious! At our table we tried crab cakes, fried green tomatoes, pulled-pork tacos, mac and cheese and of course the oysters. Our group was in agreement that Doc Crow’s oysters are the best we have ever had, one of the reasons for this being the oysters we ate came straight from Virginia and had only been out of the water for two days. To view homes for sale in the metro area go to Louisville Homes for Sale and use our superior real estate search engine.

Halloween in Louisville 2011

2011-10-12T13:37:00-07:00

2011 Halloween Events and Happenings in Louisville, KY So you spent the last 6 months finding all the trinkets and finishing touches to get your costume perfect for Halloween, but now you have nowhere to go. No fear. Check out some of the chilling events going on in Louisville this Halloween. What: Bardstown Bound Boofest. Celebrate Halloween Highland style with Trolley Rides, Trick or Treating and special Halloween themed indulgences offered at participating businesses along the way as well as scary special offers.Where: Highlands-Douglas Loop to Lexington Rd.When: Saturday October 29th 12:00pm-?*Proceeds benefit Gilda’s Club. What: “The World’s Largest Halloween Party” at the Louisville Zoo. This not-too- scary event is great for the little ones featuring storybook scenes and characters, talking pumpkins, trick-or-treating, and of course zoo animals. Where: Louisville Zoo. 1100 Trevilian Way Louisville, KY 40213When: October 7-9, 13-16, 20-23 and 27-30 from 5pm until 8:30 pm. Cost: General Admission is $8 but only $6.50 at Meijer Stores. If you have a Zoo membership, admission is free until the 20th where it will be $4. Parking at the Zoo is $5. What: Danger Run. This experience is a unique, frightening scavenger hunt that takes you through the streets of Louisville. The object of this game is to follow the book of clues, make as few mistakes as possible to accumulate the exact mileage of the course, and have a scary great time with your friends while go. When: Every Friday and Saturday from September 23rd-October 29th.Where: All over town. The starting gates are located at participating Lowe’s. Cost: Tickets are $16.99 per person. With a ticket you get a Dairy Queen Cheeseburger, a $10 Speedway gas card, some Free Vampire Fangs, and (if you do well) a chance to win some huge prizes. Check them out on their website. What: Frankenstein at the Walden TheatreWhere: 1123 Payne StreetWhen: Oct. 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 at 7:30 and matinees on the 15th and 22nd at 2pm.Cost: Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 or students and seniors. Matinees tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. What: Gaslite Tavern Halloween Bash. Come in your best costume for a chance to win a cash prize. Live music and drink specials. Where: Gaslite Tavern at Stonybrook and Six Mile Lane. 9119 Galene DriveWhen: October 29th 9:00pm-3:00am What: Evil Dead: The Musical. This bloodcurdling musical is based on the Evil Dead movies from Sam Raimi. Where: The Alley Theater at The Pointe. 1205 East Washington Street When: October 13-15, 21, 22, 27-29 and 31st at 7:30pm. Cost: General Admission tickets are $20. “Splatter Zone” Tickets are $25.

Spring is here Louisville! What to do first...

2011-03-31T15:00:00-07:00

Ah we did it; we survived another Ohio Valley winter. Now that we made it to the light at the end of the tunnel, let’s get outside, enjoy the sunshine and have some fun. So, what is there do to around here. A lot actually, let’s look at some options. It’s Derby Time! - Derby season brings so much excitement and energy to Louisville you can practically feel it in the air. The Kentucky Derby Festival brings an amazing lineup of outdoor events that is unlike anything else in the world. Thunder Over Louisville kicks off the festival on April 16th with one of the best firework shows in the nation. There is also live music, airshow and the famous Chow Wagon.Thursday, April 28th begins the spectacular lineup of events called Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront which carries on all the way to the big race on May 7th. Some of the events include the Great Balloon Glimmer & Glow, the Marathon/mini Marathon, Chow Wagon, Pegasus Parade, Great Steamboat Race and a variety of live music throughout the week. The main events are the Kentucky Oaks and Derby which are tons of fun that everyone should attend at least once. Waterfront Wednesday - Waterfront Wednesday begins April 27 and runs until September. This event is presented by 91.9 WFPK and is held on the last Wednesday of the month. The show is on the Harbor Lawn at Waterfront Park and usually features two to three acts from around the country. This event is fun and casual, great for socializing and best of all its FREE! Louisville Bats Games - The Louisville Bats open their 2011 season on April 7th with the first of many Thirsty Thursday’s aka Budweiser Happy Hours, which offers $1 Budweiser and Bud Light from 5:30-7:00. During happy hour you can enjoy live local music on the Overlook Deck. Tickets for Bats games cost $7-$11. Shakespeare in the Park - This annual, free event takes place at Delacorte Theater in Central Park, which is located in Old Louisville on 4th Street. Classic Shakespeare plays are reenacted in the evenings in June and July. 'All’s Well That Ends Well' and 'Measure for Measure' are the two classics on the line-up for the 2011 year, which feature Tony Award Winners John Cullum and Tonya Pinkins. Enjoy your summer nights supporting your Louisville art scene in its 51st year by attending Shakespeare in the Park. Jefferson Memorial Forest - Did you know Jefferson Memorial Forest is the nation’s largest urban municipal forest? With over 6,000 acres this is a great place to spend the day or the weekend. Some outdoor activities include hiking, camping, fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding and picnicking. So on a nice spring day there is no excuse, get out and find something to do. Get out in your back yard and plant some flowers or play corn hole with some friends. The options are really endless on a sunny day in Louisville. To read more about our wonderful city and perhaps find your perfect Louisville, KY Home visit Louisville KY Real Estate.

Trader Joe's Coming to St. Matthews

2011-03-12T04:50:00-07:00

Trader Joes coming to St. Matthews After months of spectulation it looks like the doubters were wrong. Trader Joe's announced it's intention to apply for a beer and liquor license for 4600 Shelbyville Road. Trader Joe's will take the place of three existing retailers The Craftsman Collection, Massage Envy and Kiddie Kastle. The latter two will move to new locations in St Matthew's Shelbyville Road Plaza and the furniture store will close. This is a major announcement for St Matthews Real Estate as the shopping center has faced a tough couple of years after the closing of two big box stores Circut City and Linens and Things. Once again it seems the location of choice for big name retailers is the St. Matthews area. To search for homes in the St. Matthews area you can visit Louisville's Superior Real Estate search Engine.

Salem Square Condo for Sale

2011-06-15T11:48:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group has a new listing! We LOVE this condo in the Salem Square community off Zorn Avenue, 521 Zorn Avenue Unit # G3 Louisville, KY 40206. This listing is conveniently located in the eastern section of Jefferson County, just off interstate 71 and is only minutes from downtown, St. Matthews and Frankfort Avenue. The Salem Square neighborhood is a quiet area, full of lush shrubbery and mature trees. There is a peaceful and well-maintained pool in the community, perfect for spending a relaxing Sunday catching some rays. This community also offers lots of storage in the basement, both private and a large community area. 521 Zorn Avenue has 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms; the third bedroom has been converted into a study/office area. This unit is one of the largest properties in the community, with 1,260 square feet! When you walk through the front door you will immediately notice the open floor plan and all of the large windows which let in ample light. Another unique feature of this condo is the charming built-in shelves. There are two built-in shelves in the living room and the shelving in the study takes up an entire wall. These are great for displaying all your treasures, books and pictures. The kitchen is galley style and is right next to the formal dining room which was professionally decorated in 2006 by Fox 41 'Home Makeover'. This condo also features a balcony overlooking the tranquil courtyard. Zorn Avenue is less than a mile from classic Louisville restaurants like Porcini's, Pat's Steak House and El Mundo. It is also a short distance from grocery stores like James' Fruit Market, Doll's Market and Rainbow Blossom Natural Market. Do not miss your opportunity to own this condo in Salem Square for only $100,000! To view more photos please click on the link below. 521 Zorn Avenue Unit #G3 Condo for Sale View the virtual tour here: Virtual Tour 521 Zorn Avenue Unit #G3 To find all homes for sale in Louisville please go to: Louisville Real Estate

Westport Ridge Condo for Sale

2011-05-19T07:07:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group is proud to tell you about our new listing at 12606 Westport Ridge Way in Louisville, KY. This property is a condo located off of Westport Road just off Northumberland, located in the eastern section of Jefferson County. The Westport Ridge community is a quiet and well-maintained subdivision. The condos are all simple and well-manicured; each condo/townhouse is slightly different however, giving each its own personality. 12606 Westport Ridge has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, one full and one half. When you walk in you will notice a bright and open living room leading into the eat-in kitchen. The kitchen also features a laundry room. On warm days you can open the back door and enjoy your private, well maintained back yard with a full wood fence. Upstairs there are two large bedrooms each with huge, walk-in closets. 12606 Westport Ridge Way is conveniently located near restaurants like Rootie's Sports Bar & Grill, Kenna's Korner, Buffalo Wings and Rings and Jucy's Smokehouse Bar-B-Q. There is a Walmart Supercenter and a Kroger only about a mile away. Schools in close priximity to Westport Ridge include Malcolm B Chancey Junior Elementary, PeWee Valley Junior Academy, Zachary Taylor Elementary School and Kentucky Country Day School. This condo is truly a gem. To top it all off this condo is FHA approved and your homeowner's monthly fee includes lawn maintenance, garbage collection, water, street lights and master insurance. Schedule your showing today! To view more photos and the list price of this condo please click on the link below. 12606 Westport Ridge Way Condo for Sale View the virtual tour here: Virtual Tour 12606 Westport Ridge Way To find all homes for sale in Louisville please go to: Louisville Real Estate

Stunning Mt. Washington Cape Cod for Sale

2011-07-27T08:17:00-07:00

We are very excited about our new listing in Mt. Washington, 292 Harvest Lane! This charming Cape Cod is located in the Autumn Glen community, off highway 44. The Autumn Glen community has some fabulous amenities including a private clubhouse, beautiful pool which overlooks a serene fishing pond, perfect for relaxing with friends on those hot summer weekends. Harvest Lane was built in 2005, and has a new and modern look. This brick cape cod has a two car attached garage and a charming front porch. The back yard offers a spacious deck and a large yard. This home has 4 large bedrooms and 2 full baths. The living room features a large palladian window making the room bright and open, a gas fireplace with custom mantle and built-in entertainment center. The huge eat-in kitchen has a separate pantry and matching black appliances. This home also has a basement, which is unfinished and has a half bath rough-in. Upgrades include a jetted tub in the first floor bathroom, ceramic tile floors in the foyer and bathrooms and hardwood throughout the great room and master closet. Just take a look at the pictures and you will see what a beautiful home this is! To view all photos for 292 Harvest Lane please click on the link below. 292 Harvest Lane Mt. Washington, KY 40047 View the virtual tour here: Virtual Tour 202 Harvest Lane To find all homes for sale in Louisville please go to : Louisville Real Estate

Jeffersontown Listing-9403 Gutenberg Road

2011-04-12T11:46:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group has a charming new listing in the Jeffersontown neighborhood of Watterson Woods, 9403 Gutenberg Road. Conveniently located off of Hurstbourne Pkwy, this home is close to stores like Meijer, Wal-Mart and is only a few miles from Jefferson Memorial Veterans Park. This home on Gutenberg Road has 3 bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The bath on the first floor has a shower and the second floor bathroom comes with a lovely garden tub with mirrored walls and cathedral ceilings. There is one first floor bedroom, perfect for guests or a den and two bedrooms on the second floor. The master has cathedral ceilings a large closet and direct bathroom access. You will love the open and airy feel of this house. The living room has vaulted two story ceilings and a beautiful wood burning fireplace that has been resurfaced with river rocks and is truly unique. Overlooking the living room is a large loft area with a large palladium window which lets in an abundance of light, great for growing house plants. The kitchen offers a recessed ceiling and closet for the washer and dryer with additional storage. The front of the home features a covered porch with railing that was recently replaced. The back of the home has a full wood privacy fence and a great porch, perfect for grilling or lounging in the sun. This home truly has it all; it is in a friendly, quiet neighborhood, is beautifully landscaped; is bright, open and unique. Schedule a showing today! To view more photos and the list price of this home please click on the link below. http://allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1299544/9403-gutenberg-rd-louisville-ky-40299/ View the Virtual tour by clicking on the link below. www.tourfactory.com/726437 To find all homes for sale in Louisville please go to: Louisville KY Real Estate. 9403 Gutenberg Rd has a great covered front porch and 2 car attached garage. Kitchen with recessed ceiling and beautiful octogon window. Living room with two story ceilings and lovely loft area upstairs.

Like to Ride? Bicycle Magazine Ranked Louisville 21st in America's Top 50 Bike-Friendly Cities

2011-03-29T15:49:00-07:00

Cycling has always been a part of Louisville’s culture. In 1890, Louisville formed a cycling club called the Louisville Wheelman which led structured rides around the city. Today this club, currently called the Louisville Bicycle Club, is one of the most dynamic and advanced cycling clubs in the country. Their website is very informative and has any and everything you would need to know about cycling in Louisville. Louisville has developed many cycling organizations over the years to promote and develop this sport in the city. Bike Louisville is a community program to progressively make Louisville even more bike friendly. In 2005, Mayor Abramson held Louisville’s first annual bike summit which set out a plan for Louisville to be awarded the gold-level status as a cycling city by 2015. In order to reach this cycling status the city will be judged in five categories and demonstrate advancements in each. The categories include engineering, education, encouragement, enforcement and evaluation and planning. At this rate, by 2015 Louisville might be in the top 10 in the nation of the best cities for cycling. Louisville has cycling options for every type of rider. Whether you want to ride around your neighborhood, ride to work or in one of the cities lovely parks, Louisville works hard to give its riders safe and diverse options. A large reason Louisville is a premier city for cycling is the abundance of bike lanes and paths currently in use; there are many paths currently under construction as well. Louisville also has organized rides throughout the year such as the Memorial Day and Labor Day Mayor’s Hike and Bike. Last year over 7,000 people participated in this event. The city of Louisville also contains some smart and savvy bike shops for its cycling citizens. St. Matthews in particular is home to some of the local favorites like Scheller’s Fitness and Cycling off Shelbyville Road, Bicycle Sport on Breckenridge Lane and Mountain Bike Depot in the new Westport Village Shopping Center. Cycler’s Café located off Lexington Road in the Highlands is a unique shop in that it is also a diner/deli which offers delicious homemade meals like burritos, BBQ and salads. After a long weekend ride, stop into the Cycler’s Café, check out their gear and enjoy a quesadilla and cold beverage on their deck. With spring just around the corner, this is a great time to learn more about cycling in Louisville and why Louisville is the 21st best city in the nation for cycling. The Bike Louisville page on the Louisville.gov site is full of helpful information, maps and routes, safety tips, and cycling events. Ride the City of Louisville is another helpful tool to map the safest bike route for your next ride. With all the cycling opportunities the city of Louisville has to offer get ready to dust off your bike, strap on your helmet, get out on the road and enjoy! Search all Louisville Homes for sale by area, year built, square footage or any other detail on Louisville's superior MLS search engine.

St Matthews KY market report as of March 14 2011

2011-03-14T17:15:00-07:00

It’s very important to understand the current market conditions when buying or selling St Matthews real estate. Below is a list of the homes that have sold and closed in the St Matthews (40207) area in the last 45 days. From this chart you can see that in many cases, sellers are taking considerably less than asking price to sell their homes. The absorption rate for St Matthews KY homes (40207) is 8.6 months. What this means is, based on the current sales rate, if no additional homes came on the market, it would take 8.6 months for all of the currently listed homes to sell. This indicates an oversupply of available homes in the St Matthews area as an absorption rate of 5 months is considered a balanced market. As a buyer this is good news as you can get some great deals in this type of market. Currently there are 232 homes for sale and pending sale in Louisville’s St Matthews area. The average sales price of the homes that have sold is $264,906 ($140 per square foot) and the average Days on Market were 129. The list price to sale price ratio is 91.8% which means the sellers are getting on average 8.2% less than their original asking price or $23,650 off of the average price home. Data compiled from the Greater Louisville MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Mt. Washington Listing at 114 Willow Creek Ct.

2011-02-04T08:44:00-07:00

Do you want to live in a quiet, friendly town with little traffic but conveniently close to necessities like restaurants and shopping? Mount Washington is your town. Gas is cheaper, the crime rate is low, you are close to Louisville but just far enough to enjoy all the wonderful qualities of living in a small town. Lucky for you, the Brad Long Group has a new listing in Mount Washington, 114 Willow Creek Court. This home is nestled in the subdivision of Stone Meadows which is a friendly neighborhood, great for taking an after dinner stroll. Willow Creek Court has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a large laundry room and a living room with vaulted ceilings. The kitchen has a large eat-in area and is equipped with white GE appliance and oak cabinetry. The windows throughout the home are double pained, large in size and are designed for easy cleaning. This home was built only 7 years ago and has 1,200 square feet. The master bedroom has an attached full bathroom and a large walk-in closet. The tree-lined back yard offers a roomy shed to conveniently house yard equipment or for a little extra storage. Willow Creek Court is a warm and cozy home in a clean, friendly and welcoming city. To view more photos and the list price of this home please click on the link below. http://allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1293299/114-willow-creek-ct-mt-washington-ky-40047/ View the Virtual Tour by clicking on the link below. www.tourfactory.com/699812 To find all homes for sale in louisville please go to: Louisville KY Real Estate.

St. Matthews Listing 122 Fairlawn Road

2010-10-14T11:55:00-07:00

Our listing on 122 Fairlawn Road is a beautiful example of the classic St. Matthews home. The architecture and curb appeal of this home will greet you every time you drive into the driveway. The welcoming and cozy front porch is the perfect place to watch the sunset and relax with your family and neighbors. This charming Bungalow is located in between Frankfort Avenue and Lexington Road, a short walk from the heart of St. Matthews. Location, location, location! You just can’t beat being within walking distance to classic St. Matthews restaurants like the Fishery, Lotsa Pasta, Molly Malone’s and Simply Thai. Also, right around the corner is the very popular boutique, Clodhoppers and the natural food market, Rainbow Blossom. Fairlawn Road is a great home for a family with children. It is within close proximity to many schools both public and private such as Trinity, Waggener, Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Matthews Elementary School. It is also under a mile from Seneca Park. When you walk through the stunning leaded glass front door you will enjoy calm colors, hardwood floors and a handsome stone fireplace. The large bay window and open floor plan really light up the first floor of this home. The kitchen has been updated with new cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. There are two bedrooms on the first floor of the home. The second floor is the master suite which features a sitting room and the master bath. The master bathroom includes a whirlpool tub. This house is truly a St. Matthews charmer. To view more pictures of this home please click on the link below.http://allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1281872/122-fairlawn-rd-louisville-ky-40207/View the Virtual Tour by clicking on the link below.www.tourfactory.com/656678Charming St. Matthews Bungalow.Beautiful leaded glass front door and charming fireplace.Bright dining area with large bay window.Updated kitchen includes new cabinetry and stainless steal appliances.

St. Matthews KY New way to search homes for sale

2010-11-07T11:20:00-07:00

Jeffersontown Condo Listing 3507 Lennox View Ct. Unit #206

2010-11-16T16:30:00-07:00

If you are looking for a condominium that is conveniently located and offers maintenance free living, please check out 3507 Lennox View Court Unit 206. Lennox View is situated in a highly desirable condo community in Jeffersontown, just off Hurstbourne Parkway. This charming condo is less than a mile away from restaurants like Keith’s Old Hickory BBQ, Culver’s and Max and Erma’s. Also, right around the corner from the Windsor Gate community, are grocery stores like Meijer, Save-A-Lot and Garden Gate Fruit Market. Schools located within a few miles from 3507 Lennox View are Jefferson Elementary School, St. Martha Elementary, Klondike Lane Elementary School, St. Edward School, Myers Middle School, Jeffersontown High School and Mercy Academy.This spacious condo has an open floor plan with two bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The condo is equipped with cozy carpeting throughout the living areas and bedrooms as well as a neutral color scheme. Another delightful benefit to his condo is the attached one car garage that offers a secure entrance into the complex. Unit 206 is located on the second floor of a three story building with a balcony off the living room. This condo is pet friendly and FHA approved.The Windsor Gate community offers many amenities to its residents such as additional storage, building security, trash collection, exterior maintenance and snow removal. The best amenity of all is the Club House which is located across from 3507 Lennox View Court. Only steps away from unit 206 is a swimming pool, tennis courts and a fitness center. This condo is a true gem. To view more pictures of this condo please click on the link below.http://allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1287737/3507-lennox-view-ct-louisville-ky-40299/ View the Virtual Tour by clicking on the link below.www.tourfactory.com/678726 3507 Lennox View Court Unit #206 Louisville, Ky 40299Dining Room Kitchen

Downsizing to St Matthews

2011-01-12T13:16:00-07:00

Less is more— right? People today are quickly realizing they don't need as much space in their home or on their property. More space equals more to take care of, more to dust and more to move from A to B. It means more to store, more to label and more to give away or sell eventually. Having more may also mean a commute from the suburbs or a surrounding county far from urban life. So far everything we've talked about takes more time for sure. It takes time away from the truly meaningful things you'd like to do with your life. For each of us this is different. For you, maybe it's more time with your friends and neighbors. For others, it could be more time for leisure or hobbies. To some, it's more time to relax and enjoy a good meal or some entertainment. It could be more time to exercise or more time outdoors. Well a home in St Matthews may not promise you all these things, but it's a good start. If this 'less is more' mantra or life philosophy characterizes you, then a home in St Matthews could be for you. Homes in St Matthews offer lots of positives and we'll be presenting them here on at home in St Matthews. A home in St Matthews gives you that cottage feel (there are tons of cape cod's in the area) with less to take care of but tons of community options. It's also superior to living in a condo or town home when it comes to control. You still have a yard to mow, and take care of— just not one that takes all day to finish. A home in St Matthews also puts you close to some of the most popular parks in the city of Louisville. Many in the area are within walking or biking distance from Seneca Park. We'll do a future post talking discussing the activities available at one of Louisville's most noted parks. Stay tuned for many other reasons why you need a home in St Matthews. To search for all properties for sale in St. Matthews click: http://www.allhomesinlouisville.com/louisville-real-estate/st-matthews-ky-homes-for-sale/ P.S. In the meantime you can follow @loumetroparks on Twitter to get lots of great information like: ideas, promotions, contests and activities going on at Louisville's Metro Parks.

St. Matthews Listing 700 Lydgate Cove

2011-01-14T10:37:00-07:00

Our listing, in the subdivision of Forest Retreat, is located in the city of St. Matthews near Washburn Avenue off Westport Road or LaGrange Road. His home is on a quiet cul-de-sac and has wonderful curb appeal. Lydgate Cove is beautifully landscaped, both front and back, and is on a large lot, 1/3 of an acre which is one of the largest lots in the area. This home offers some wonderful amenities which include an open floor plan, eat-in kitchen, French doors leading to the back deck and skylights which brighten both bathrooms. The exterior of this property is truly a gem. Lydgate Cove has a full privacy fence, a large wooden deck which extends to a paved patio and even a hot tub! This back yard would be the perfect place to entertain your family, friends and neighbors. Best of all, this charming ranch is within walking distance to Warwick-Villa Park which offers amenities such as a walking track, basketball goals, baseball diamond and treed picnic areas with BBQ grills. Within a short drive from Lydgate is the Mall St. Matthews, Oxmoor Shopping Center and Westport Village which offers unique shopping and dining for many different tastes. Napa River Grill, Boombozz Taphouse, Indigo Joe's and Wild Eggs are restaurants located in Westport Village. Schools close to Lydgate Cove include St. Albert the Great, Waldorf School of Louisville, St. Margaret Mary School, Walden School and Waggener Traditional High School. To view more pictures of this home please click on the link below. http://allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1292087/700-lydgate-cove-louisville-ky-40222/ View the Virtual Tour by clicking on the link below. www.tourfactory.com/694459 Charming St. Matthews Ranch with large front porch and beautiful landscaping. Huge back yard with full privacy fence. Wooden deck leading to patio area and hot tub. Perfect for entertaining!

St. Matthews Listing 1011 Williamsburg Ct.

2011-01-25T12:35:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group has a new and absolutely stunning listing in the Broadfields subdivision in St. Matthews. This dream home has been recently renovated and is full of new improvements; from the roof to the hardwood floors. This gorgeous, traditional style home is on a large lot, almost a half-acre in size and is conveniently located in the east end of Louisville, Kentucky. Williamsburg Court has a big, beautifully landscaped back yard with a full fence and a wooden deck. Other amenities include built-in shelving and charming brick fireplace in the living room, plantation blinds, neutral colors and closets galore. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, new granite countertops, a beautiful tile backsplash, a breakfast area and hardwood floors. The basement has been recently finished and includes updates such as acoustic tile on the walls of the media room, a fireplace, new carpet, a wet bar and a granite table. This is the perfect area for entertaining or watching the big game. This home is conveniently located less than a mile from Brown Park and only 1.5 miles from Seneca Park. Restaurants close to 1011 Williamsburg Court include O’Charley’s, Red Lobster, Rafferty’s, Texas Roadhouse and Panera Bread. Schools in close proximity to this home are Friends School, Our Lady of Lourdes, Saint Matthews Elementary, Waggener Traditional High School and Trinity High School. View the Virtual Tour by clicking on the link below.www.tourfactory.com/697509 To view more pictures of this home please click on the link below.http://allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1292804/1011-williamsburg-ct-louisville-ky-40207/ 1011 Williamsburg Court Louisville, KY 40207

St. Matthews market conditions

2010-12-13T08:09:00-07:00

lkjfdk 4116 Stoneview Dr 4004 Brownlee Rd 217 Sherrin Ave 5601 Coach Gate Wynde 314 Castleview Dr Westport Terrace Country Ln Foeburn Ln Ridgeway Ave Falgate Browns Ln Hillsboro Rd Eline Ave Taggart Dr Barrington Ct Travois Rd Eline Ave Phoenix Hill Dr Hanford Ln Brandon Rd High Ridge Rd Brandon Rd High Ridge Rd Brandon Rd

Why Some Houses Sit While Other Houses Sell

2010-11-20T09:22:00-07:00

Highlands KY October 2010 Home Sales Stats

2010-11-02T04:35:00-07:00

Data compiled from the Greater Louisville MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. We feel that if you are in the market to buy or sell real estate in The Louisville Highlands area, it is important to understand the trends in Active Listings, Days on the Market, and Listing to Sale Price ratio so that you can make an educated decision. There are currently 271 home on the market in the Louisville Highlands area and 22 in pending status Follow this link to search all Highlands Homes for Sale: http://www.allhomesinlouisville.com/louisville-real-estate/highlands-louisville-ky-homes-for-sale/

St. Matthews KY Oct - Nov 2010 Home Sales Stats

2010-10-31T08:21:00-07:00

Data compiled from the Greater Louisville MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. We feel that if you are in the market to buy or sell real estate in St. Matthews KY area, it is important to understand the trends in Active Listings, Days on the Market, and Listing to Sale Price ratio so that you can make an educated decision. There are currently 222 home on the market in St. Matthews and 47 in pending status. Follow this link to search all St. Matthews Homes for Sale: http://www.allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/list/?searchid=9166

St. Matthews KY Oct - Nov 2010 Home Sales Stats

2010-11-05T07:43:00-07:00

Data compiled from the Greater Louisville MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. We feel that if you are in the market to buy or sell real estate in St. Matthews KY area, it is important to understand the trends in Active Listings, Days on the Market, and Listing to Sale Price ratio so that you can make an educated decision. Below are the closed residential sales in St. Matthews 40207 for the week ended November 6, 2010 There are currently 220 home on the market in St. Matthews and 53 pending status. Follow this link to search all Louisville St. Matthews homes for sale: http://www.allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/list/?searchid=9166

St. Matthews Listing 6000 Windsong Court

2010-10-13T13:05:00-07:00

The Brad Long Group has an absolutely stunning new listing in the Windsong subdivision at 6000 Windsong Ct. This home is located in St. Matthews right off of Rudy Lane, close to everything. Windsong Court is only half a mile from Kroger, Target, and a Starbucks and is only 1.2 miles away from the heart of downtown St. Matthews. Also, Windsong is less than a half mile from the new Westport Road expressway ramp to the Waterson Expressway. This will make your commute to work and home a breeze. Windsong Court features three bedrooms and two full baths. There is a large first floor master bedroom and two bedrooms located on the second floor. Brazilian Cherry Hardwood floors flow throughout the first and second floors of this home, as well as slate tile in the kitchen, dining room and laundry room. The Gourmet Kitchen features Corian counter tops, custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and a gas range. This home was exquisitely decorated and designed. The colors throughout the home are modern and will go with anyone’s taste. The trey ceilings and crown molding in the dining room and living room give this home a unique and special touch. If that wasn’t enough, this home also features a fully finished basement with carpet and hardwood. The options are endless for the use of this space. The basement has room for a cozy family room, as well as an office or bar area and is perfect for entertaining your friends and family. For more information on 6000 Windsong Court and to look at all photos please click the link below. allhomesinlouisville.com/property-search/detail/3/1285610/6000-windsong-ct-louisville-ky-40207/ To view the Virtual Tour click the link below. www.tourfactory.com/669413 6000 Winsong Ct. St. Matthews, KY 40207 Living room Gourmet Kitchen

St. Matthews Lifestyle

2010-08-08T01:17:00-07:00

Since you live in St. Matthews you know our area is quickly turning into the new “hot spot” in Louisville. On any given summer evening it’s a safe bet that the outdoor patio of Molly Malone’s and Bluegrass Brewing Company is a buzz with locals having fun in the sun. Molly Malone’s opened in January of 2010 smack in the heart of town, the corner of Breckenridge Lane and Shelbyville Road, and has been the spot where everyone is meeting for happy hour or enjoying a delicious dinner al fresco. The Vogue Theater has always been a Louisville landmark. More recently the Vogue has turned into the fashion district of St. Matthews. Most of the boutiques in the Vogue are on the higher end, but no matter the prices the atmosphere and eclectic goodies you see make window shopping a pleasure. Check out Clodhoppers and House of Denim for items you would see on the cover of In Style. St. Matthews is one of the most desired places to live in Louisville, as a result, new and different restaurants and shops are popping up all the time. We are eagerly anticipating the newest “hot spot”!

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit: Basic Information

2009-12-03T14:11:00-07:00

Updated Nov. 6, 2009, to note new legislation. The new legislation extends and expands the first-time homebuyer credit allowed by previous Acts. The new law: * extends deadlines for purchasing and closing on a home * authorizes the credit for long-time homeowners buying a replacement principal residence * raises the income limitations for homeowners claiming the credit Q. What is the credit? A. The first-time homebuyer credit is a new tax credit included in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. For homes purchased in 2008, the credit operates like an interest-free loan because it must be repaid over a 15-year period. The credit was expanded in 2009 for homes purchased in 2009, increasing the amount of the credit and eliminating the requirement to repay the credit, unless the home ceases to be your principal residence within the 36-month period beginning on the purchase date. It was further expanded in late 2009 to extend deadlines and to allow long-time homeowners buying replacement homes and people with higher incomes to qualify for the credit. (11/12/09) Q. How much is the credit? A. The credit is 10 percent of the purchase price of the home, with a maximum available credit of $7,500 ($8,000 if you purchased your home in 2009 or early 2010) for either a single taxpayer or a married couple filing a joint return, but only half of that amount for married persons filing separate returns. The full credit is available for homes costing $75,000 or more ($80,000 in 2009 or early 2010). Long-time homeowners who buy a replacement home after Nov. 6, 2009, or in early 2010 may qualify for a credit of up to $6,500, or $3,250 for a married person filing a separate return. (11/19/09) Q. Which home purchases qualify for the first-time homebuyer credit? A. Any home purchased as your principal residence and located in the United States qualifies. You must buy the home after April 8, 2008, and before May. 1, 2010 (with closing to take place before July 1), to qualify for the credit. For a home that you construct, the purchase date is considered to be the first date you occupy the home. Normally, taxpayers (including spouse, if married) who owned a principal residence at any time during the three years prior to the date of purchase are not eligible for the credit. This means that you can qualify for the credit if you (and your spouse, if married) have not owned a home in the three years prior to a purchase. However, a long-time homeowner can also get the credit for a qualifying replacement home purchased after Nov. 6, 2009. To qualify, you must have owned and used the same home as your principal residence for at least five consecutive years of the eight-year period ending on the date you by your new principal residence. If you make an eligible purchase in 2008, you claim the first-time homebuyer credit on your 2008 tax return. For an eligible purchase in 2009, you can choose to claim the credit on either your 2008 or 2009 income tax return. For an eligible purchase in 2010, you can choose to claim the credit on either your 2009 or 2010 return. (11/19/09) Q. If a taxpayer purchases a mobile home (manufactured home) with land and qualifies for the credit, is the amount of the credit based on the combined cost of the home and land? A. Yes. The first-time homebuyer credit is ten percent of the purchase price of a principal residence. The total purchase price (mobile home and land) is used to determine the amount of the first-time homebuyer credit. Q. Is a taxpayer who purchases a mobile home and places the home on leased land eligible for the first-time homebuyer credit? A. Yes. A mobile home may qualify as a principal residence and it is not necessary that the taxpayer own the land to qualify for the first-time homebuyer credit. Q. Can a taxpayer who purchases a travel trailer qualify for the credit? A. A travel trailer that is affixed to land may qualify as a principal residence. Q. Can an individual who has lived in an RV qualify for the credit? A. For purposes of the first-time homebuyer credit, an RV with a built-in motor is personal property that is not affixed to land and does not qualify as a principal residence. Accordingly, someone who has owned and lived in an RV within the past three years may still qualify as a first-time homebuyer. Q. Can I apply for the credit if I bought a vacation home or rental property? A. No. Vacation homes and rental property do not qualify for this credit. Q. Who is considered to be a first-time homebuyer? A. Taxpayers who have not owned another principal residence at any time during the three years prior to the date of purchase are considered first-time homebuyers. For example, if you bought a home on July 1, 2008, you cannot take the credit for that home if you owned, or had an ownership interest in, another principal residence at any time from July 2, 2005, through July 1, 2008. In addition, Long-time homeowners who buy a replacement home after Nov. 6, 2009 or in early 2010 can also qualify. Under this rule, you must have owned and used the same home as your principal residence for at least five consecutive years of the eight-year period ending on the date you by your new principal residence. For an eligible taxpayer who, for example, bought a home on Nov. 30, 2009, the eight-year period would run from Dec. 1, 2001, through Nov. 30, 2009. (11/19/09) Q. Can a dependent on someone else’s tax return claim the first time homebuyer credit if they otherwise qualify? A. Different rules apply depending upon whether a dependent buys a home after Nov. 6, 2009, or on or before that date. Dependents are not eligible to claim the credit on any purchase after Nov. 6, 2009. However, a dependent who buys a home on or before Nov. 6, 2009 may qualify for the credit. (11/19/09) Q. Can a minor buy a home and claim the credit? A. Usually, no. However, different rules apply to purchases after Nov. 6, 2009 and those on or before that date. Minors are generally barred from claiming the credit on home purchases after Nov. 6, 2009. To qualify for the credit, a purchaser must be at least 18 years of age on the date of purchase. For a married couple, only one spouse must meet this age requirement. A dependent is not eligible for the credit, regardless of age. For purchases on or before Nov. 6, 2009, the tax law does not bar a minor from buying a home and claiming the credit. However, taxpayers who do not otherwise qualify for the credit do not become eligible for the credit simply by using a minor child’s name. In addition, under state law, children under the age of 18 generally are not bound by any contract they sign and cannot be required to comply with the terms of the contract. Thus, it is extremely unlikely that a seller of a home, or a lender if financing is required, would enter into a bona fide sale of a home to a child. Merely using the child’s name to purchase a home does not qualify the child for the credit if, in substance, the child is not a bona fide purchaser of a home. (11/19/09) Q. When do I have to buy a new home to get the credit? A. The credit is available for eligible home purchases after April 8, 2008. You must enter into a binding contract to buy the home before May 1, 2010 and close before July 1, 2010, in order to obtain the credit. For a home you construct, the purchase date is considered to be the date you first occupy the home. (11/19/09) Q. How do I apply for the credit? A. The credit is claimed on IRS Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit, and filed with your 2008, 2009 or 2010 federal income tax return. (11/12/09) Q. I submitted an amended 2008 return for the first-time homebuyer credit more than eight weeks ago. How long will it take the IRS to process my return? A. The normal processing time for amended returns is approximately 8-12 weeks. Recent changes to the tax law have resulted and will continue to result in larger than normal volumes of amended returns. This increased volume has increased our processing time to 12-16 weeks. It is not necessary for you to follow-up with the IRS regarding your amended return if you are within these time frames. (11/23/09) Q. Are there income limits? A. Yes. The credit is reduced or eliminated for higher-income taxpayers. The credit is phased out based on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI). Different income limits apply to purchases on or before Nov. 6, 2009 and those after that date. For purchases on or before Nov. 6, 2009, for a married couple filing a joint return, the phase-out range is $150,000 to $170,000. For other taxpayers, the phase-out range is $75,000 to $95,000. This means that the full credit is available for married couples filing a joint return whose MAGI is $150,000 or less and for other taxpayers whose MAGI is $75,000 or less. For purchases after Nov. 6, 2009, for a married couple filing a joint return, the phase-out range is $225,000 to $245,000. For other taxpayers, the phase-out range is $125,000 to $145,000. This means that the full credit is available for married couples filing a joint return whose MAGI is $225,000 or less and for other taxpayers whose MAGI is $125,000 or less. (11/19/09) Q. Can a taxpayer claim the first-time homebuyer credit after entering into a contract for the purchase of a residence but before closing on the purchase? A. No. Taxpayers cannot claim the credit before there is a completed sale and purchase of the residence. The sale and purchase are generally completed at the time of closing on the purchase. (7/2/09) Q. Can a taxpayer claim the first-time homebuyer credit if the purchase is pursuant to a seller financing arrangement (for example, a contract for deed, installment land sale contract, or long-term land contract), and the seller retains legal title to secure the taxpayer's payment obligations? A. If the taxpayer obtains the "benefits and burdens" of ownership of a residence in a seller financing arrangement, then the taxpayer can claim the credit even though the seller retains legal title. Factors that indicate that a taxpayer has the benefits and burdens of ownership include: 1. the right of possession, 2. the right to obtain legal title upon full payment of the purchase price, 3. the right to construct improvements, 4. the obligation to pay property taxes, 5. the risk of loss, 6. the responsibility to insure the property and 7. the duty to maintain the property. (7/2/09) Q. I purchased a home that qualifies for the first-time homebuyer credit. I will be renting two of the bedrooms and reporting the rental income on Schedule E. Will I still qualify for the credit if I use the home as my principal residence? A. Yes, if you meet all first-time homebuyer eligibility requirements. See Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit, for more details. Q. I purchased a duplex home with two separate dwelling units. I will live in one dwelling and will rent out the other dwelling unit and report the rental income on Schedule E. May I qualify for the first-time homebuyer credit, and what amount do I use for the purchase price to determine the amount of the credit? A. Yes, you may qualify for the credit for the dwelling unit that you use as your principal residence. To determine the amount of your credit, you must allocate the purchase price of the duplex between the two separate dwelling units. You may not use the entire purchase price of the duplex to determine the amount of your credit. Q. If two unmarried people buy a house together, how do they determine how much each may take of the credit? A. IRS Notice 2009-12 provides guidance for allocating the first-time homebuyer credit between taxpayers who are not married. Q. I am a single co-owner of a home. How do I get this credit? A. Depending on the year of purchase, you will claim the credit on your 2008, 2009 or 2010 federal income tax return. (11/19/09) Q. I don’t owe taxes and/or my income is exempt from tax and I do not have a filing requirement. Do I qualify for the credit? A. The credit is fully refundable and, if you qualify as a first-time homebuyer, having tax-exempt income will not preclude eligibility. Although there are maximum income limits for qualifying first-time homebuyers, there are no minimum income criteria. Thus, someone with no taxable income who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer may file for the sole purpose of claiming the credit for a refund. Q. Does the first-time homebuyer credit apply to homes located in the U.S. Territories? A. No. Q. Would I be considered a first time homebuyer if I owned a principal residence outside of the United States within the previous three years? A. Yes. A taxpayer who owned a principal residence outside of the United States within the last three years is not disqualified from taking the credit for a purchase within the United States. Q. If qualified, are homebuyers required to claim the first-time homebuyer credit? A. No. Q. Who cannot take the credit? A. If any of the following describe you, you cannot take the credit, even if you buy a new home: * Your income exceeds the phase-out range. * You buy your home from a close relative. This includes your spouse, parent, grandparent, child or grandchild. * You do not use the home as your principal residence. * You are a nonresident alien. (11/19/09) Q. Does previously inheriting a home and living in it automatically disqualify me as a first-time homebuyer if I buy a different home on or before Nov. 6, 2009? A. Yes, an ownership interest in a prior principal residence would bar you from being considered a first-time homebuyer. As long as you owned and used the prior home as your principal residence, you are not a first-time homebuyer. There is no exception for taxpayers who did not buy their prior residences. (11/19/09) Q. If I claim the first-time homebuyer credit in 2009 and stop using the property as my main home before the 36 month period expires after I purchase, how is the credit repaid and how long would I have to repay it? A. If, within 36 months of the date of purchase, the property is no longer used as your principal residence, you are required to repay the credit. Repayment of the full amount of the credit is due at the time the income tax return for the year the home ceased to be your principal residence is due. The full amount of the credit is reflected as additional tax on that year's tax return. Form 5405 and its instructions will be revised for tax year 2009 to include information about repayment of the credit. (05/06/09) Q. If a person does not actually make the payments on a home that’s their principal residence, but the deed and mortgage documents are in their name, can they be considered a first-time homebuyer? A. Yes. If a taxpayer purchases a home to be used as a principal residence from an unrelated person and has not owned a home within the previous 36 months, the taxpayer is eligible for the first-time homebuyer credit regardless of who makes the mortgage payment. (05/06/09) Q. Do taxpayers affected by Hurricane Katrina or other disasters qualify as first-time homebuyers if their principal residence (i.e. main home) became uninhabitable more than three years ago and they have not formally disposed of the uninhabitable home or purchased or built a new home in the interim? A. Yes. They may be eligible for the first-time homebuyer credit when they purchase a new principal residence. (11/19/09)

First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit FAQs

2009-12-03T13:54:00-07:00

In November, 2009, Congress passed new legislation making a federal tax credit available not just to first-time home buyers but to those who currently own their own home as well. Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the first-time home buyer tax credit for homes purchased in 2009, taken directly from the irs.gov website (here). Overview New legislation signed on Nov. 6, 2009, extends and expands the first-time homebuyer credit allowed by previous Acts. The new law: * extends deadlines for purchasing and closing on a home * authorizes the credit for long-time homeowners buying a replacement principal residence * raises the income limitations for homeowners claiming the credit Q. I plan to build a home and occupy it in 2009 or early 2010. Can I claim the first-time homebuyer credit now and use the funds toward the down payment or other ongoing construction costs? A. No. To qualify for the first time home buyer credit, the residence must be purchased. By statute, a residence which is constructed by the taxpayer is treated as purchased on the date the taxpayer first occupies the residence. (05/06/09) Q. I bought my home in 2009 (early) and filed my 2008 tax return claiming the $7,500 first-time homebuyer credit that has to be repaid. Now the expanded law provides for an $8,000 credit that doesn’t have to be repaid. What do I need to do to get the $8,000 credit that doesn’t have to be paid back? A. You can file an amended return. Q. If I purchase a home in June 2009, and have already filed my 2008 tax return, can I amend my 2008 return or will I have to claim it on my 2009 return? A. You can either file an amended return to claim it on your 2008 return or claim it on your 2009 return. Q. I am in the process of buying a home. Can I claim the first-time homebuyer credit now? That would allow me to use the refund for a down payment. A. No. You may not claim the credit in anticipation of a purchase that has yet to happen. Until you have finalized the purchase of your home, which for most purchasers occurs at the time of the closing, you do not qualify for the credit. IRS news release 2009-27, First-Time Homebuyers Have Several Options to Maximize New Tax Credit, contains details for filing options if the home is purchased after April 15, 2009. Q: When must I pay back the credit for the home I purchased in 2009? A: Generally, there is no requirement to pay back the credit for a principal residence purchased in 2009 or early 2010. The obligation to repay the credit arises only if the home ceases to be your principal residence within 36 months from the date of purchase. The full amount of the credit received becomes due on the return for the year the home ceased being your principal residence. Q. If I claim the first-time homebuyer credit for a purchase in 2009 or early 2010 and stop using the property as my principal residence before the 36 month period expires after I purchase, how is the credit repaid and how long would I have to repay it? A. If, within 36 months of the date of purchase, the property is no longer used as your principal residence, you are required to repay the credit. Repayment of the full amount of the credit is due at the time the income tax return for the year the home ceased to be your principal residence is due. The full amount of the credit is reflected as additional tax on that year's tax return. Form 5405 and its instructions will be revised for tax year 2009 to include information about repayment of the credit. Q: I’m already a homeowner. If I buy a replacement home after Nov. 6, 2009, to use as my principal residence, do I have to sell my home to qualify for the homebuyer tax credit? A: If you meet all of the requirements for the credit, the law does not require you to sell or otherwise dispose of your current principal residence to qualify for a credit of up to $6,500 when you buy a replacement home to use as your principal residence. The requirements are that you must buy, or enter into a binding contract to buy, the replacement principal residence after Nov. 6, 2009, and on or before April 30, 2010, and close on the home by June 30, 2010. Additionally, you must have lived in the same principal residence for any five-consecutive-year period during the eight-year period that ended on the date the replacement home is purchased. For example, if you bought a home on Nov. 30, 2009, the eight-year period would run from Dec. 1, 2001, through Nov. 30, 2009. (11/17/09)

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit: Scenarios

2009-12-03T14:02:00-07:00

S1. If a single person (Taxpayer A) qualifies as a first-time homebuyer at the time he/she purchases a home with someone (Taxpayer B) that is not a first-time homebuyer and then later that year they marry each other, is the credit still allowed? A. Eligibility for the first-time homebuyer credit is determined on the date of purchase. If Taxpayer A, a first-time homebuyer, buys a house and then later that year marries Taxpayer B, not a first-time homebuyer, the credit is allowable to Taxpayer A. Taxpayer A may take the maximum credit. S2. Taxpayer A is a single first-time home buyer. Taxpayer B (parent) cosigns for A and does not qualify. Both names are on the mortgage. Can Taxpayer A claim the credit and, if so, how much? A. Yes. Taxpayer B is not a first-time homebuyer and cannot claim any portion of the credit, but A may claim the entire credit ($7,500 for purchase in 2008; $8,000 for purchase in 2009), if the home was purchased as Taxpayer A's primary residence. S3. A taxpayer owned her principal residence. Several years ago, she decided to relocate to a rented apartment, but did not sell the former residence. Instead, she rented it out to tenants. Now the taxpayer plans to buy another house and make it her new principal residence. Does she qualify for the first-time homebuyer credit? A. A taxpayer who owned rental property within the past three years is still eligible for the credit. The taxpayer cannot have owned and used a home as his or her principal residence within the last three years. S4. If husband and wife wanted to sell the home that the wife owned when they got married, and the husband had not owned a home within the past three years, could he qualify as a first-time homebuyer for the credit even though the wife would not qualify? A. No. The purchase date determines whether a taxpayer is a first-time homebuyer. Since the wife had ownership interest in a principal residence within the prior three years, neither taxpayer may take the first-time homebuyer credit. Section 36(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code requires that the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse not have an ownership interest in a principal residence within the prior three years from the date of purchase. The husband may not take the credit even if he filed on a separate return. S5. Taxpayer purchased a home on April 24, 2008, while she was separated from her husband. Later in the year, they reconciled and were living together at the end of 2008. She has not owned a home since 2004 but he owned one which he sold in 2006. They remained married the entire time. Is the taxpayer eligible for the first-time homebuyer credit? A. No. The purchase date determines whether a taxpayer is a first-time homebuyer. Since the husband had ownership interest in a principal residence within the prior three years, and the taxpayers were legally married, neither taxpayer may take the first-time homebuyer credit. Section 36(c)(1) requires that the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse not have an ownership interest in a principal residence within the prior three years from the date of purchase. While individuals do not have to be married to get the credit, marriage (and legal separation) imputes ownership of a previous home upon the other spouse. The wife may not take the credit even if she filed on a separate return. S6. I have been estranged from my spouse for over three years and file married filing separate. I don’t know if my spouse has owned a main home in the last three years, but I have not. If I buy a house in 2009 that otherwise qualifies for the first-time homebuyer credit, can I claim the credit? A. Section 36(c)(1) requires that the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse not have an ownership interest in a principal residence within the three years prior to the date of purchase. While individuals do not have to be married to get the credit, marriage (and legal separation) imputes ownership of a previous home upon the other spouse. If your spouse has not owned a main home in the last three years, then you may claim the credit. S7. I am separated from my spouse and considered unmarried, and qualify for the unmarried head of household filing status. My spouse has owned a main home in the last three years, but I have not. If I buy a home on May 1, 2009, that otherwise qualifies, can I claim the first-time homebuyer credit? A. No. Section 36(c)(1) requires that the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse not have an ownership interest in a principal residence within the three years prior to the date of purchase. While individuals do not have to be married to get the credit, marriage (and legal separation) imputes ownership of a previous home upon the other spouse. The taxpayer may not take the credit even if filed on a separate return. S8. A qualifying taxpayer bought a home in August 2008 that needed a lot of work before occupying. They finished the renovations and moved in the home in January 2009. Can they claim the $8,000, since they did not occupy the home until 2009? A. No. Taxpayers who purchase an existing home and renovate the property before moving in are eligible for the first-time homebuyer credit based on the date of purchase, not the date of occupancy.