The Indy Homes Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.indyhomes.com/blog/Copyright IndyHomes.com2024-01-18T14:54:53-07:00tag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:14169Kristie Smith's 25th Wedding Anniversary<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/kristie_smith_anniversary.jpg" width="311" height="553" alt="Kristie Smith Anniversary" title="Kristie Smith Anniversary" style="float: right;" />
January first marked AJ and my 25th wedding anniversary. We celebrated by taking a 9-day trip to St. Martin & St. Barths. It was so nice to getaway from the extreme cold here in Indiana.
The 25 years has gone by so quickly. It seems like just yesterday we exchanged vows in the middle of the second worst Chicagoland blizzard in the 20th century... after the Blizzard of 1967. We left the church in a one horse open sleigh and spent the next three days digging out of 26 inches of snow in order to make it on our honeymoon. I guess you could say that the massive shoveling was our first “outdoor project.” I can remember standing on the Bobcat trying to add weight to the bucket as AJ navigated.
The person you choose to marry is one of the single most important decisions you will ever make. I am so fortunate to and proud to be married to AJ, and it has been a true gift of joy, love, growth, fun and partnership. Ironically, at the same time our marriage has endured strife, conflict, pain and anger. There is no universal playbook for navigating the intricacies of marriage: a vulnerable, loving, yet complicated relationship. What I can tell you is to choose wisely and commit to a partner based on who they are on the inside.
The character of the man I married is so beautiful & I’m lucky to be <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/our-team/meet-kristie-smith/" target="_blank">Mrs. Smith</a>.2024-01-18T13:27:58-07:002024-01-18T14:54:53-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:13920How Remote Work is Transforming the Quest for Dream HomesIndy Homes....Where Luxury Meets Innovation.
In the realm of luxury real estate, the winds of change are blowing, and they're ushering in a new era of home buying. For our esteemed clientele of luxe sellers, these shifts in the real estate landscape offer exciting opportunities.
The way Americans work has changed in recent years and remote work is at the forefront of this shift. Experts say remote working will continue to be popular for years to come and project that 36.2 million Americans will be working remotely by 2025. To give you some perspective, that is a 417% increase compared to the pre-pandemic years when just 7 million workers were remote.
If you’re in the market to buy a home and you work remotely either full or part-time, this trend is a game-changer. It can help you overcome some of today’s affordability and housing inventory challenges. Today, we explore how remote work is not merely a trend but a transformational force influencing how discerning buyers seek their dream homes.
Redefining Location, Location, Location<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/remote_work.jpg" width="415" height="227" alt="remote work" style="float: right;" />
Traditionally, the mantra in real estate has been "location, location, location." While location remains paramount, the definition of an ideal location is evolving. Remote work has untethered buyers from the confines of a daily commute, enabling them to cast their nets wider. The coveted dream home might now be nestled in tranquil suburbs, picturesque countryside, or even a dreamy coastal haven.
The Rise of the "Zoom Room"
With remote work becoming the norm, homes are no longer just residences; they're multi-functional sanctuaries. Luxe buyers seek properties with dedicated home offices or spaces that can be transformed into elegant workspaces. A beautifully designed "Zoom Room" with ample natural light is the new luxury.
Priority on Lifestyle Amenities
Buyers are increasingly valuing lifestyle-enhancing amenities over proximity to offices. They're drawn to homes with expansive outdoor spaces, private gardens, and resort-style pools. It's all about creating an oasis for relaxation, recreation, and rejuvenation.
The Pursuit of Space and Serenity
The desire for spacious abodes has gained prominence. Luxe buyers are now looking for estates with sprawling grounds, spacious interiors, and the potential to create bespoke living spaces. With remote work, the home is no longer just a sanctuary; it's a canvas for personal expression.
Access to High-Tech Infrastructure
In the age of remote work, connectivity is king. Buyers seek homes with robust high-speed internet, smart home technology, and integrated security systems. A home that seamlessly blends luxury with technology is the epitome of modern living.
Exploring New Horizons
Remote work offers the freedom to explore new cities, states, or even countries. Luxe buyers are expanding their horizons, exploring regions that align with their lifestyle aspirations. The quest for the perfect dream home knows no geographical bounds.
Patience and Personalization
As remote work reshapes the pace of life, buyers are willing to invest more time in the search for perfection. They seek personalized experiences, tailored recommendations, and a dedicated partner who understands their evolving needs.
How Remote Work Helps with Affordability
Remote or hybrid work allows buyers to change how they approach your home search. Since buyers no longer commute daily, they don't find it essential to live near the office. If a buyer is willing to move a bit further out in the suburbs or rural areas, a pool of more affordable housing options abound. In a recent study, Fannie Mae explains:
“Home affordability may also be a reason why we saw an increase in remote workers’ willingness to relocate or live farther away from their workplace . . .”
If you're thinking about moving, having this kind of location flexibility can boost your chances of finding a home that fits your budget. Work with our team to cast a wider net that includes additional areas with a lower cost of living.
More Work Flexibility Means More Home Options
And buyers broaden their search to include more affordable options, they may also find the opportunity to receive more home features for the money. Given the low supply of homes for sale, finding a home that fits all buyer wants and needs can be challenging.
By broadening home searches, buyers have a bigger pool of housing options to choose from and that makes it easier to find a home that truly fits specialized lifestyles. This could include homes with more square footage, diverse home styles, and a wider range of neighborhood amenities that were previously out of reach.
Historically, living close to work was a sought-after perk, often coming with a hefty price tag. But now, the dynamics have changed. If you work from home, you have the freedom to choose where you want to live without the burden of long daily commutes. This shift allows you to focus more on finding a home that is affordable and delivers on your dream home features.
Conclusion
At Indy Homes, we understand that our luxe sellers are at the forefront of these transformative trends. Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and unparalleled service ensures that your property is positioned to meet the demands of this dynamic market. As the luxury real estate landscape evolves, we are here to guide you, offering insights, strategies, and a bespoke experience that transcends the ordinary.
If you're considering selling your luxury property or looking for your next dream home, we invite you to contact us today. Together, we'll embark on an exciting journey to elevate your real estate experience in an era where remote work is changing the way buyers seek their dream homes.
Elevate Your Real Estate Experience with Indy Homes. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact us </a>to embark on your luxury real estate journey.2023-10-25T10:22:00-07:002024-01-18T13:38:08-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:13919Seizing the Moment: Why Selling Your Home Now Can Be the Smartest MoveIn the world of real estate, timing can be everything. Unfortunately, fears about timing can be crippling. This year we've had hundreds of Carmel homeowners with a desire to make a move yet become paralized by fears of costs and interest rates. Let's address the foremost concern head-on: the current landscape of mortgage interest rates. Undeniably, rates have risent to levels that demand attention. If you are like hundreds of our other clients, you might also be pondering, "Is this the right time?" The answer might surprise you. Let's delve into why, counterintuitive as it may seem, now could be an opportune moment to act.
Reason 1: Low Inventory, High Demand
A compelling argument in favor of selling now is the current scarcity of homes available on the market. In a scenario where demand outstrips supply, sellers can often command higher prices for their properties. This can potentially counterbalance the impact of elevated interest rates on your forthcoming mortgage. It's essentially a manifestation of the age-old principle of supply and demand at play in the real estate arena.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Couple_sold_house.jpg" width="389" height="260" alt="couple_sold_house" style="float: right;" />
Reason 2: Capitalizing on Home Value
Residential property values have exhibited a steady upward trajectory. By selling your property at its current peak value, you may realize a substantial return on your initial investment. It's essential to remember that property values are subject to fluctuations, and seizing the moment can be a prudent strategy.
Reason 3: Locking in a Fixed Rate
Concerned about future rate increases? One avenue is to secure a fixed-rate mortgage presently, thereby safeguarding your interest rate for the foreseeable future. This strategic approach affords predictability and stability in your housing expenditures, mitigating potential uncertainties associated with interest rate fluctuations.
Reason 4: Savings on Your Next Home
Surprisingly, the costs associated with your future home may not be as adversely impacted by higher interest rates as you might presume. In a competitive market, sellers often enjoy enhanced negotiating leverage. Consequently, you may find room to negotiate a favorable deal on your next residence, countering the effects of heightened interest rates.
Reason 5: Pursuing Your Dream Lifestyle
We all harbor aspirations, including visions of an ideal home. Whether it entails downsizing to an intimate haven, upgrading to a spacious family abode, or embarking on a new adventure within a different neighborhood, now might be the perfect moment to transform those dreams into reality. Life is too brief to forgo the pursuit of your dream home.
Reason 6: Beat the Rush
Looking ahead, it's conceivable that interest rates may continue to ascend, spurring a surge in both buyers and sellers. By initiating your move today, you can preempt the potential rush of individuals seeking to capitalize on the current market conditions.
The Role of Future Refinancing
It's essential to underscore that the decision to sell need not be final or irreversible. In the event that interest rates experience a downward shift in the future, refinancing your mortgage becomes a viable option. Refinancing can enable you to secure a more favorable interest rate, potentially resulting in reduced monthly payments and overall savings. It provides a mechanism for adapting to changing market dynamics and optimizing your financial strategy.
Conclusion
The proposition of selling your Carmel home in the present real estate climate – notwithstanding the presence of higher mortgage rates – is a well-founded consideration. While the data and reasoning presented herein may resonate with many, we recognize that every homeowner's situation is distinct. Consequently, we strongly advocate consulting with a reputable financial advisor or real estate professional to conduct a thorough assessment tailored to your unique circumstances.
As you deliberate your course of action, bear in mind that life's most rewarding achievements often necessitate seizing the moment, even when the circumstances appear less than ideal. Your dream home and a bright financial future could be waiting just around the corner!
If you're contemplating a move, we invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. We are genuinely interested in hearing from you!
ChatGP
2023-09-24T08:08:00-07:002023-09-25T10:53:01-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:13921Beyond the Balance Sheet: The Non-Financial Treasures of Home OwnershipIn the world of real estate, we often talk about the financial aspects of homeownership—the equity, the investment, the tax benefits. But today, we want to shift our focus to something equally important, yet often overlooked: the non-financial treasures of owning a home in beautiful Carmel, Indiana.
A Sense of Belonging
When you own a home, you're not just a resident; you're a member of a community. Carmel has a strong sense of community, and homeowners here enjoy a deep sense of belonging. You become a part of the tapestry of Carmel's vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods.
Creative Expression
Owning a home is like having your own canvas. You can paint the walls any color you desire, create a garden that reflects your personality, and design your space to suit your tastes. It's a chance for creative self-expression that renting often can't match.
Stability and Roots
Homeownership offers stability. You put down roots, and your home becomes a foundation for building lasting memories. It's where your children grow up, where you celebrate holidays, and where you create a sense of continuity in your life.
Customization, Personalization & Control
Your home is a reflection of you. You have the power to customize and personalize it to your heart's content. From selecting the perfect kitchen countertop to creating a cozy reading nook to painting orange walls, homeownership empowers you to shape your living space.
Your home is truly your own space. If you own a home, unless there are specific<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/orange_paint.jpg" width="339" height="226" style="float: left;" /> homeowner association requirements, you can decorate and change it the way you like. That means you can make small changes or even do big renovations to make your home perfect for you. Your home is uniquely yours and by buying, you give yourself the freedom to tailor it to your individual style. Investopedia explains:
“One often-cited benefit of homeownership is the knowledge that you own your little corner of the world. You can customize your house, remodel, paint, and decorate without the need to get permission from a landlord.”
When you rent, you might not be able to make your place really feel like it’s yours. And if you do make any modifications, you might have to change them back before you leave. But if you own your home, you can make it just the way you want it. That level of customization can give you a sense of pride in where you live and make you feel more connected to it.
Community Involvement
Owning a home often leads to greater community involvement. You take pride in your neighborhood, attend local events, and engage with your neighbors. It's a way to be an active and valued member of the Carmel community.
People who own homes usually live in them for an average of nine years. As that time passes, it’s natural to make friends and build strong ties in the community. As Gary Acosta, CEO and Co-Founder at the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), points out:
“Homeowners also tend to be more active in their local communities . . .”
When you care deeply about the people you live near, you’ll do what you can to contribute to your local area.
Outdoor Living
Carmel is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. When you own a home here, you have your own piece of the outdoors. Whether it's a backyard oasis for barbecues or a front porch for sipping tea, outdoor living becomes an integral part of your lifestyle.
Stability for Children<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/young_couple_pregnant.jpg" width="365" height="243" alt="pregnant_couple" style="float: right;" />
For families, homeownership can provide a stable environment for children. They grow up in the same home, attend the same schools, and build lifelong friendships. It offers a sense of security and continuity that can be incredibly valuable.
Pride of Ownership
There's a unique pride that comes with homeownership. You're not just living in a space; you're stewarding a piece of Carmel's history. It's a feeling of accomplishment that's hard to replicate elsewhere.
Pets and Play
Homeownership often means more space for pets to roam and children to play. It's a gift to your four-legged friends and a ticket to endless adventures for your little ones.
Legacy and Heritage
Your home can become a part of your family's legacy. It's where stories are passed down through generations, where traditions are born, and where your personal history is etched into the walls.
At Indy Homes, we understand that homeownership is about more than just numbers on a balance sheet. It's about the intangible, non-financial treasures that make life in Carmel so special. If you're considering homeownership or looking to make a move within Carmel, we're here to help you discover these hidden gems and find the perfect place to call home.
Let's explore the non-financial joys of homeownership together. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> and let's embark on this journey of discovery.2023-09-23T11:37:00-07:002023-09-25T12:22:17-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:13841Embrace the Season: Benefits of Selling Your Home in Fall and Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Fall_front_door.jpg" width="232" height="174" alt="fall front door" title="fall front door" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; float: left;" />
As the seasons change and a crisp breeze fills the air, the idea of selling your home might seem counterintuitive during the fall and winter months. However, this could be a strategic move that aligns perfectly with your goals. Let's explore the unique benefits of listing your home in the colder seasons, addressing your motivations and potentially making this a lucrative decision.
Less Competition, More Attention
With many sellers waiting for the traditional spring market, the fall and winter present an opportunity to stand out in a less crowded field. Buyers who are actively searching during these months are often motivated, and your home can catch their undivided attention, potentially leading to quicker sales.
Serious Buyers on the Hunt
Buyers prowling the market during fall and winter are typically more committed. They often have urgent needs, like job relocation or changes in family circumstances. This translates into higher chances of closing deals faster with genuinely interested parties.
Showcase Cozy Appeal
The fall and winter allow you to play up your home's cozy and inviting attributes. A crackling fireplace, warm lighting, and seasonal decorations create an ambiance that resonates with potential buyers on an emotional level, helping them envision life in your home.
Highlight Energy Efficiency
Cooler weather gives you the chance to showcase your home's energy-efficient features. From effective insulation to a well-functioning heating system, these elements appeal to buyers looking to cut down on utility costs.
Advantageous Negotiations
With fewer homes on the market, you may have more negotiating power. Buyers are more likely to compromise on terms, allowing you to secure a deal that aligns with your goals.
Staging Potential
Fall and winter décor can enhance your home's appeal, making it feel warm and welcoming. Leveraging these seasonal elements in your staging can create a strong emotional connection for buyers.
Capitalize on Year-End Transactions
Some buyers aim to close before the year ends for tax purposes, which aligns well with your motivation to sell efficiently. Capitalize on this urgency to potentially close deals faster and keep more money in your pocket versus giving it to Uncle Sam.
Conclusion
Selling your home during the fall and winter months isn't just a possibility; it's a strategic decision that aligns with your motivations. The benefits of less competition, serious buyers, cozy staging, and advantageous negotiations make this a favorable time for both you and potential buyers.
Ready to explore the possibilities of selling your home this season? Let's embark on this journey together. Contact us today to discuss how we can turn the fall and winter months into a lucrative opportunity for you. And, if you are selling during the winter, we want to make sure to talk now so that an exterior photoshoot can be scheduled immediately to ensure green grass, flowers and leafy trees are prevelant in your marketing.
Embrace the season, embrace the opportunity!2023-08-18T13:06:29-07:002023-08-18T14:06:43-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:13699Unplug and Unleash Fun: Unique and Educational Summer Activities for KidsIn a world dominated by screens, it's more important than ever to find engaging and educational activities that can get kids off the couch and away from their phone screens. This summer, let's embark on a journey filled with unique experiences that will spark their curiosity, ignite their creativity, and create lasting memories. Here are some incredible ideas to help your family make the most of the summer while unplugging from technology.
Nature Explorer Expeditions:
Take your kids on captivating nature explorations in your local area or nearby parks. Hike through scenic trails, identify different plants and wildlife species, and learn about the wonders of nature firsthand. Encourage them to bring a notebook to document their findings, sketch what they see, or create a nature journal. You might want to explore Carmel Parks <a href="https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/carmelclayparks/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_keyword=nature%20keepers&viewMode=list">Nature Keepers</a> program this summer!
Artistic Adventures:
Unleash your children's inner artists by organizing art-focused outings. Visit local museums or art galleries, participate in pottery or painting classes, or set up an outdoor art station where they can create their masterpieces inspired by the beauty of nature. Let their imagination soar as they express themselves through colors, shapes, and textures.
Science and Tech Exploration:<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Kids_doing_science_experiment.jpg" width="272" height="181" alt="kids_science" style="float: right;" />
Fuel their passion for discovery with interactive science a technology activies. Visit science centers or planetariums that offer hands-on exhibits, or organize simple science experiments at home. Engage them in coding workshops, robotics projects, or astronomy nights to nurture their interest in STEM subjects.
Farm-to-Table Adventures:
Teach your children about the importance of sustainable living and healthy eating by exploring local farms or farmers' markets. Let them discover where their food comes from, engage in farm chores, and learn about organic farming practices. Encourage them to participate in cooking activities using farm-fresh ingredients and educate them about the benefits of nutritious meals.
Outdoor Sports and Adventure:
Encourage an active lifestyle by introducing your kids to various outdoor sports and adventure activities. Plan family bike rides, go hiking, try rock climbing, or explore kayaking and paddleboarding. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also teach teamwork, perseverance, and resilience.
Cultural Excursions:
Broaden their horizons by immersing them in cultural experiences. Visit local historical sites, attend cultural festivals or exhibitions, or try different cuisines at ethnic restaurants. Encourage them to learn about different traditions, languages, and customs, fostering their appreciation for diversity and global understanding.
Volunteer Opportunities:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Planting_trees.jpg" width="261" height="172" alt="Kids_planting_trees" style="float: right;" />
Instill a sense of empathy and compassion in your children by involving them in volunteer work. Research local charities or community organizations where they can contribute their time and skills. Whether it's organizing a neighborhood cleanup, assisting at an animal shelter, or participating in a charity event, these experiences teach valuable life lessons and promote social responsibility.
Conclusion:
This summer, make it a priority to disconnect from technology and engage your children in unique and educational activities that promote exploration, creativity, and personal growth. By venturing into nature, embracing the arts, delving into science, discovering local culture, and giving back to the community, you're fostering their holistic development while creating cherished memories. Let this summer be a time of adventure, learning, and quality time spent together, away from screens and immersed in the wonders of the world around us.
So, get ready to unplug and unleash the fun! It's time to create a summer filled with extraordinary experiences that will leave a lasting impact on your children's lives.
Remember, the world is their playground, and the possibilities are endless!
Unplug. Explore. Inspire.<br /><br />Please let us know how your summer goes & please send us some pics or leave a comment below!2023-06-09T08:55:10-07:002023-06-09T11:56:02-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:10547Translation, please? Understanding Indy-speak<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/translation_please.jpg" width="715" height="476" alt="Confused woman holding paper with question mark" />
Like any city, Indianapolis has its own vernacular. We’ve compiled this glossary to help demystify this jargon for Indy newbies. Study and practice—in no time, you’ll sound like a local!
Boilermakers—The nickname for Purdue University’s sports teams, students and alumni. The nickname has <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purdue_Boilermakers#Origin_of_%22Boilermakers%22_nickname" target="_blank">colorful origins</a>. See IU vs. Purdue.
Carb Day—No, this isn’t an Indy holiday in which you stuff yourself with pasta, bread and cake. Formally known as “Carburetion Day,” Carb Day is the final practice session before the running of the Indianapolis 500, currently held on the Friday before race day.
Carmel—Indy's affluent suburb to the north. Pronounced "CAR-mel" like the candy (not car-MEL). <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/">Learn more about Carmel >></a>
Castleton—Refers to <a href="http://www.simon.com/mall/castleton-square" target="_blank">Castleton Square Mall</a> on the northeast side of Indy, as well as the area around the mall. All things Castleton are located at the Allisonville exit off of I-465.
The Circle—Refers to Downtown Indianapolis’ Monument Circle, the home of the iconic <a href="https://www.visitindy.com/indianapolis-soldiers-sailors-monument-monument-circle" target="_blank">Soldiers and Sailors Monument</a>. Every few years you might see resurrected plans to close off The Circle to automobile traffic -- transforming it into a pedestrian promenade. Indianapolis' vision for this redevelopment never gets much traction due to pushback from the businesses located on The Circle. When you do drive on The Circle, be mindful that traffic flows one-way counterclockwise.
Circle City—One of Indianapolis’ nicknames. See The Circle.
Crossroads of America—Official motto of the state of Indiana. Also serves as an unofficial nickname for Indianapolis due to the fact that four major interstate highways (I-69, I-70, I-65 and I-74) pass through the city.
Deer Creek Music Center—The original name of <a href="http://musiccenternoblesville.com/" target="_blank">Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center</a>, located in Noblesville. Oldtimers prefer “Deer Creek" (its original name). The largest outdoor music venue in Indiana.
Eiteljorg—The <a href="https://www.eiteljorg.org/" target="_blank">Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art</a>. The museum’s mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the art, history and cultures of the American West and the indigenous peoples of North America. In fact, its contemporary Native art collection has been ranked among the world’s best.
The Fieldhouse—<a href="https://www.gainbridgefieldhouse.com/" title="Gainbridge Fieldhouse" target="_blank">GainBridge Fieldhouse</a>, home of the Indiana Pacers. You might also hear it referred to as "Bankerslife Fieldhouse" or “Conseco Fieldhouse,” its two former name. Not to be confused with <a href="http://butlersports.com/facilities/?id=1" target="_blank">Hinkle Fieldhouse</a>, Butler University’s revered sports venue.
Fort Ben—Shorthand for Fort Benjamin Harrison. Although the fort was decommissioned in 1995, it still serves as the center of <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/">Lawrence Township</a>, with much of it having been converted into a <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/historic-fort-harrison/">master-planned housing community</a> and <a href="http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2982.htm" target="_blank">1,400-acre state park</a>.
Geist—Refers to Geist Reservoir and the residential area surrounding it. One of the most expensive residential areas in Central Indiana. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/">Learn more about Geist >></a>
Hoosier Dome—Also known as the RCA Dome, the Hoosier Dome was home to the Indianapolis Colts for 24 seasons. The dome was demolished in 2008 to make way for an expansion of the neighboring Indiana Convention Center. Lucas Oil Stadium, the current Colts stadium is connected underground to the Indiana Convention Center.
Hoosier hospitality—The special friendliness you’ll find only in Indiana.
Hoosier Hysteria—We Hoosiers LOVE our basketball! And Hoosier Hysteria is the only fitting term for that heightened frenzy we feel for the sport we follow so closely, whether it’s at the high school, college or professional level.
Hoosiers—A native or inhabitant of Indiana. (DO NOT use “Indianan.” Just no.) The origins of the word “Hoosier” are disputed, but there are <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoosier" target="_blank">many stories</a>, both scholarly and not so much. In any case, we Hoosiers embrace the moniker.
IMA—Indianapolis Museum of Art. Recently rebranded <a href="https://discovernewfields.org/" target="_blank">“Newfields,”</a> as the institution increases its emphasis on combining art with nature. In the fall and at Christmastime, Newfields hosts spectacular evening light festivals -- a tradition for many to visit annually.
IPS—Indianapolis Public Schools.
IU vs. Purdue—Indiana University and Purdue University are the two big state schools in Indiana, and share a classic rivalry that extends beyond basketball (see Hoosier Hysteria) and football—although that competition is intense. IU and Purdue grads will argue about anything; e.g., Who has the better campus? Whose graduates are smarter? You get the idea.
IUPUI—Stands for <a href="http://www.iupui.edu" target="_blank">Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis</a>. Practice so it flows quickly: "I-U-P-U-I." Sometimes pronounced "ooey pooey" (usually tongue in cheek).
Keystone at the Crossing—An upscale business and shopping district located on the northside of Indianapolis at the intersection of East 86th Street and North Keystone Avenue. Although the mall located here is officially named “The Fashion Mall at Keystone,” you may hear locals use “Keystone at the Crossing” or simply “Keystone” when referring to it.
The lake—You’ll find that Indiana has scores of lakes, and many of your neighbors may own cottages or second homes at a nearby lake. When Hoosiers refer to a lake they tend to be less than specific, so you’ll hear sentences like, "I'm heading to the lake this weekend." The speaker could be referring to ANY lake, whether it’s Lake Michigan, Lake Monroe or Little Cedar Lake.
Lilly—Not a reference to the flower; rather, "Lilly" refers to <a href="http://www.lilly.com/" target="_blank">Eli Lilly & Co.</a>, the pharma giant headquartered in downtown Indianapolis.
Long's—As the newbie, you might be asked to pick up some Long's for the office. (Huh?) Your boss is referring to the insanely delicious melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts created daily at <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/longs-bakery-indianapolis-2" target="_blank">Long's Bakery</a> (located west of downtown off 16th St.). Be prepared for long lines, and remember, cash only! (Seriously, if you want to be the office hero, bring in some Long's!)
Lucas Oil—Shorthand for Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts.
Market Square Arena—The now demolished downtown concert and sports arena was formerly home to the Indiana Pacers and is known as the venue in which Elvis Presley held his last concert.
MassAve—Shorthand for Massachusetts Avenue in downtown Indianapolis, and one of Indy's cultural districts. Its downtown location and proximity to dozens of restaurants, shops and galleries makes it a popular place to live. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/downtown/mass-avechatham-arch/">Learn more about MassAve >></a>
The Mini—Reference to the Mini Marathon, an annual half-marathon held in May. One of the premier events leading up the Indianapolis 500, it includes a lap around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The Monon—Shorthand for the Monon Trail, Indy's popular rail trail that stretches from Downtown Indy to Westfield, a northern suburb.
Murat—Pronounced (MUR-ah). Reference to the Murat Shrine Temple or Murat Shrine Center, now known as Old National Centre. The theater portion of the building is now officially known as the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre.
Naptown—A nickname for Indianapolis. Its origins are unclear, but we like the story that jazz musicians hanging out along Indiana Avenue during the ’20 and ‘30s appropriated the fourth and most prominent syllable of IndiaNAPolis and came up with the informal, hip nickname. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/indianapolis-naptown/">We wrote about this in our blog a few years ago.</a>
north/south split—Turning north, the next section of I-70 along the east side of downtown Indianapolis travels concurrent with I-65. The two major interchanges at either end of this concurrency are often referred to as the "North Split" and the "South Split", forming the eastern leg of a section of freeways and surface streets locally known as the "Inner Loop" (around the central business district of Indy, and as opposed to the "Outer Loop" of the I-465 beltway).
Peyton—As in Peyton Manning, former Indianapolis Colts quarterback. Even though he retired in 2016 and was with the Denver Broncos at the time, he's still revered in Indy and as such, is referred to by first name only.
The Pyramids—Three pyramid-shaped office buildings on the northwest side of Indianapolis. You’ll know ‘em when you see ‘em!
The race—Yes, this is a reference to that race—the Indianapolis 500. “So, are you going to the race this weekend?”
Reggie—Reggie Miller of course, one of the most popular players with the Indiana Pacers. Widely considered the greatest Pacer of all time.
Riley or Riley's—Riley Hospital for Children.
The Ripple—Nickname for Broad Ripple, Indy's eclectic neighborhood northeast of downtown. Known for its bars, restaurants, and cute homes, as well as for being the location of David Letterman's childhood home. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/broad-ripple/">Learn more about Broad Ripple >></a>
SoBro—Not an official designation, but the name has caught on in recent years. South Broad Ripple’s borders are roughly Kessler to the north and 46th Street to the south, with College to the west and Keystone to the east. (Technically, a portion of SoBro falls within the Meridian-Kessler neighborhood.) Learn more about <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/broad-ripple/">Broad Ripple</a> and <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/meridian-kessler/">Meridian-Kessler</a> >>
spaghetti bowl—The north split is also called the "spaghetti bowl" due to the visual complexity of the overlapping freeways, ghost ramps, and overpasses that were originally intended as a connection to a never-built portion of I-69. See north/south split.
St. V's—St. Vincent Hospital.
The track—The track, i.e. the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is where the race is run. “We’re heading out to the track for Carb Day.”
Unigov—The term coined for the entity formed when the governments of Indianapolis and Marion County consolidated in 1970.
The Village—Depending on the context, refers to <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/broad-ripple/">Broad Ripple Village</a> or <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/the-village/">Zionsville's downtown</a>.
Zville—Nickname for Zionsville, an affluent suburb northwest of Indianapolis. <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/">Learn more about Zionsville >></a>
What terms puzzled you when you moved to Indianapolis? What do we need to add to this list? Tell us in the comments below!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2023-02-13T16:39:00-07:002023-02-23T05:46:31-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:9971Selling in the Spring? Have Exterior Photos of your Home Taken Now<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/professional-photographer2.jpg" width="715" height="427" alt="professional real estate photographer" />
If you are planning on selling your Indianapolis home in the spring, NOW is the time to have exterior photos of your home taken. The reason why is very simple. If you put off pictures until you list your home in the spring, your yard will be brown, your trees will be barren, and you’ll have lost out on the opportunity to present your home at its very best and stand out from the competitors!
Although it’s mid-October, you still have several weeks to get some ideal exterior shots in which the leaves are still on the trees, flowers in bloom and the lawn green. Remember, it’s critical that your home make a big first impression when presented online. If a buyer finds your home’s curb appeal lacking, they’ll click on to the next listing.
Let us take care of shooting your exterior photos
Give us a call at <a href="tel:317-815-6006">(317) 815-4450</a> and we’ll take care of professionally photographing the exterior of your home now while its curb appeal is at its peak, pool is still open, etc. By planning ahead, you will have a leg up on your competition when your home is put on the market in the gray days of March. And when your home sells quickly while others languish, you will be so glad you had the forethought to take photos in the fall!
Or, send us a message as to the best day for your photos based on your mowing and landscaping schedule:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2022-09-30T04:00:00-07:002022-10-03T13:40:03-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11796Tips to Make your Move Easier for your Dog<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/dog_move.jpg" width="710" height="400" alt="Dog adjusts to new home after move." />
You found the home of your dreams! You’re ready to move into the new phase of your life—but what about your pup? As dog lovers, we at Indy Homes want to help you ensure a smooth transition for your furry friend.
Dogs love routine (just like you)
As you look forward to your move date, keep this dog psychology tidbit in mind. Dogs, like humans, live in a world of routine. They expect to be fed at a certain time, walked at a certain time, and sleeping next to the bed (or on your pillow) at a certain time. The difference is that dogs don’t choose their routine. They depend on you to tell them the when, the where, the why. And although dogs can’t directly say it, they stress out when confronted by big changes.
It's up to you to set a routine for your dog despite the craziness of your move. Here are some tips.
1. Be a good role model
Dogs can feel what you're feeling. Whether its their primal background or their high level of reliance on humans for food and shelter, dogs sense your emotion. I’m sure you've had your dog come up to you and lick your face when crying, or jump up and celebrate, tail wagging, when you've expressed your excitement over a <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/indianapolis-august-2019-events/">Colts </a>win. Dogs mimic your emotion, which means that during the move, being as calm and supportive as possible will increase the chances of your dog behaving and feeling okay.
2. Use positive reinforcement
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/sad_dog.jpg" width="250" height="374" alt="Sad dog adjusting to new home" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" />“No” is a word we use hundreds of times per day when conversing with people. Identifying a word or sound that means “no” with your dog means that they won’t be confused or anxious when hearing you yell “No!” at the screen during an exciting episode of "The Bachelorette," during an intense Pacers game, or when a mover is packing your fine china without any bubble wrap--YIKES! Sometimes the word “no” even reinforces bad behavior. If your dog is seeking attention, you yelling “no” might give him the attention he wants.
Remember to reinforce good behavior with your dog to ensure a smooth transition to a new home, especially since riskier behavior patterns will be more likely to occur with the added stress of the changing surroundings. If these behaviors persist, check out our recommendations for <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/indianapolis-dog-trainers-obedience-schools/">Indianapolis dog training locations. <br /></a>
Saying "no" consistently when your dog is exploring their new home might cause your pup to shut down altogether (not engaging at all to avoid getting yelled at), which will only increase your dog's stress. Think of a new word or sound meaning "no," or consider only reinforcing good behaviors to make your dog as content as possible.
3. Take it slow...
According to <a href="https://vcahospitals.com/" target="_blank">VCA Animal Hospital</a>, dogs sometimes chew and urinate while exploring. If you want them to avoid these behaviors, "accompany your dog around your house while he explores (to) provide the opportunity to encourage and reinforce desirable behaviors while interrupting and deterring undesirable ones." Keep close by while they explore! <br />
Move out a few boxes at a time—don’t wait until the day of the move when there are a dozen movers coming in and out for your dog to find out his home is being transferred. According to the <a href="https://www.aspca.org/" target="_blank">ASPCA</a>, "start by allowing them to adjust to ONE room—their “home base”—which should include their favorite toys, treats, water and food bowls..."
Take your dog to the new home a few times before the big move so that he can check out the new digs, and get familiar with the new smells. Perhaps even move their dog bed the day before so they can start feeling like it’s home.
Tips for the day of the move
Drop your doggie off with a neighbor, a friend, or a<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/doggie-daycare-indianapolis/"> doggie daycare center</a> to ensure they receive all the attention they need.
Check our recommendations for <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/doggie-daycare-indianapolis/">doggie daycare centers </a>located in <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/" target="_blank">Carmel</a> and <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/">Zionsville</a>. All of these locations offer dog-play, most offer<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/adding-a-dog-shower-to-your-home/" target="_blank"> dog spa services,</a> and all are highly rated daycare centers where you can trust your pup will receive top-notch care.
Moving can be the most stressful part of a human's life. Follow our tips to ensure the move isn't the most stressful part of your canine friend's life, too!
<br /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2022-08-05T12:32:00-07:002022-06-01T12:37:46-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11707What’s IN Indiana’s new marketing campaign?Population growth is an essential ingredient of a healthy real estate market – when new residents move into a community, we are all the winners. That’s why the <a href="https://indianarealtors.com/" target="_blank">Indiana Association of REALTORS®</a> advocates for programs like READI (grants supporting regional quality of life plans) and invests in initiatives like “Hoosiers by Choice,” which shares the journeys of notable Hoosiers born outside the state.
This morning, I was pleased to receive a sneak preview of the new marketing campaign (called IN Indiana) from our partners at the <a href="https://www.in.gov/iddc/" target="_blank">Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC)</a>.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/Indiana.jpg" width="515" height="171" alt="Indiana" title="Indiana" />
Governor Holcomb will unveil IN Indiana to media and the public later this morning, but the Indiana real estate industry managing brokers and leadership received a first look. After all, REALTORS® are an entrepreneurial salesforce whose product is Indiana – its small towns, thriving cities, family-friendly suburbs and everyplace in between. View the completed IN Indiana marketing plan <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/45lss3nzuy69l3e/Cabinet-LaunchDay_FINAL.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
Converting potential visitors to new neighbors:
IN Indiana is the heart of a $3.5 million broadcast campaign in the Chicago, St. Louis and Louisville markets this year, along with a farther-reaching digital marketing plan. (The IDDC plans to seek up to $80 million for advertising over the next two-year state budget cycle, which would put state spending on par with competitors like ‘Pure Michigan.’)
While much of the advertising targets visitors, these appeals will also influence potential movers and homebuyers, especially considering current migration patterns with Illinois and Kentucky in the context of media spending in Chicago and Louisville.
Population trends haven’t always told a positive story for Indiana (the 2010s were another decade of slowing growth overall), but more recent news is encouraging. We’re leading the Midwest in population gains, and net migration is a bright spot: 50,000 new Hoosiers have moved from across the country and around the world to make Indiana home since 2018.
2022-06-08T03:19:00-07:002022-06-08T14:37:42-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:128702022 Indianapolis Women's Half MarathonCarmel is proud to host one of the ten largest, female-only half marathons in the US on October 15th. Known for its big race feel with small-town hospitality, the event offers competitive fields, a fast course and cool vibe that has attracted ladies from all over the US! 34 states were represented in 2021.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/female-runners.jpg" width="311" height="208" alt="female_runners" title="femanle_runners" style="text-align: right; float: right;" />
The new forever home of Carmel offers a beautiful fall run with shady trees, fast course, and a wonderful post-race area within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, and more. Check out our reviews and join us for the 2022 Indiana Women’s Half Marathon & 5K on Saturday, October 15th (The 2.0 name change makes us the Indiana Women’s Half Marathon & 5K. So many ladies travel to the event so our name should reflect our Hoosier pride.)!
Here are a few reasons to join in!
The largest women's-only running event in Indiana. That makes it fun!
Custom tanks! We see our tanks on women all the time so we know you love them.
We are the ONLY women’s only Half Marathon in the United States offering a cash purse to the top-20 in the half marathon and top 3 in the 5K plus 3-deep age group awards in both races! Others may celebrate women’s events with fancy names or colors or swag. We celebrate you by recognizing your achievements by offering more and giving back.
Age group awards in the half marathon AND 5K!
Pacers for the Half Marathon to help you hit your goal!
Fast course will include many miles of shaded park trails. Yes, the move from downtown Indy is replacing exhaust fumes, noise, and city smell with leaves, birds, and calmness for you to focus on your run and get into a groove.
Fall temps and foliage at the Carmel Gazebo. It doesn’t get much better for a post-race party location to celebrate with your friends.
Again benefiting Indiana Women in Need; women helping and supporting women!
Register <a href="https://raceroster.com/events/2022/61456/12th-annual-indiana-womens-half-marathon-and-5k" target="_blank">Here</a>!
Race Map:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Womens_Half_Marathon.JPG" width="977" height="1266" alt="womens-half-marathon" title="womens-half-marathon" />2022-06-03T17:54:00-07:002022-06-08T15:06:18-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12879Sell Your Home NOW Before Interest Rates RiseNow is the time for sellers to put their house on the market and for buyers to do whatever it takes to find a house in the next 60-90 days!
Here’s why:<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/interest_rates.jpg" width="269" height="176" alt="interest-rates" title="interest-rates" style="float: right;" />
By Fall, we’ll start seeing even higher interest rate increases! Mortgage rates will likely rise as well throughout the next year.
Want to know the FINANCIAL IMPACT of waiting until 2023?
1/2% interest increase hikes up a house payment by more than $200/month on a $500,000 house
1% interest increase hikes up a house payment by more than $400/month on a $500,000 house
At the end of 2023, a 30-year-fixed mortgage rate could reach over 6%.
Who's ready to save money this year instead of waiting until next year?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/buyer-purchasing-power.jpg" width="1650" height="970" alt="buyer-purchasing-power" />
Here’s What It Will Cost You If You Wait
Monthly: Possibly dinner out; a new car or coffee and lunch
Annually: A vacation or paying off your debt
Over 30 years: ($144,000 extra interest on a 30-year mortgage) which could be a chunk of your retirement
From property inventory to interest rates, industry leaders like <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/3. https://www.buffiniandcompany.com/products/bold-predictions/bold-predictions-2022.aspx" target="_blank">Brian Buffini</a>, housing experts, and popular <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/richmond-feds-barkin-says-a-march-rate-rise-is-conceivable-11641595045?mod=markets_lead_pos6" target="_blank">online news sites</a>, are forecasting the 2023 property market. So too are the economists, we follow.
Here’s what they’re predicting from Fall:
Fewer speculative buyers
With higher interest rates, fewer speculative buyers are expected come Fall. A smaller pool of buyers, but a pool full to the brim of those actually wanting to buy.
A balanced market
With interest rates pushing for a more balanced market, this means that if no other homes hit the market it could take 4 to 6 months to sell all properties currently on the market! This means, a crazy slurry of crazy multiple offers now.
A lowered number of buyers means that the lacking property inventory situation is balanced. Tight supply and lower mortgage rates now are certainly giving sellers the upper hand until the inevitable interest hike comes in Fall.
Better Property Prices
House prices aren’t forecast to drop either. So, expect the full price for properties and, even better, bidding wars before Fall.
Don’t Tell Yourself “Maybe Next Year!”
If you are close to being ready, you’re ready! Now is the time, so do it now! Let’s discuss your upcoming sell today. Contact us right now!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2022-06-01T08:44:00-07:002022-06-08T11:13:40-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12934Enhance and Add Value to Your Home With a Fence<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/fenced_yard.png" width="710" height="448" alt="fenced in landscaped backyard" />
When starting a landscaping project in your front yard or backyard, you might realize that there’s one big element that you need to add to tie everything together — a fence. Picking the right fence for your yard involves some research into styles, prices, and why you want to put up a fence in the first place. If you are selling your house, picking a fence that will add to your home’s curb appeal is a definite must. Understanding the basics can help you get started.
Understand your goals and budget
The need to put up a fence might be for a range of reasons. If you live in an area with wildlife, like deer or coyotes, then you might want a fence to keep your yard safe — not to mention keeping it protected from burglaries. Other reasons for putting up a fence are privacy and adding to the aesthetics of your home. Defining your goals before you start researching fences will help you narrow down your options. After you have an understanding of what you need your fence to do for you, you can also add your budget into the mix. Prices for fences will vary greatly depending on the type of material you choose. Wire fences might cost $1 to $4 per linear foot at the low range, while composite fences are considered to be the most expensive at $26 to $57 per linear foot.
Know the limitations
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/front_yard_fence.png" width="400" height="265" alt="bungalow with fenced front yard" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" />Another factor to consider when picking the fence that’s right for your home is to understand any potential rules about the types of fences that can be installed, depending on your homeowner’s association or neighborhood guidelines. Before you get too deep into researching your ideal fence, check the rules for your neighborhood to be sure you know what’s possible for your home.
RELATED: <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/buyers/fence-etiquette-tips-avoid-neighbor-disputes/">Fence etiquette: Tips to avoid neighbor disputes</a>
Different types of fences
Picking the right fence is about function and aesthetics. Some options worth considering are:
Wire and chain link: These are the least expensive to install and if you need a quick solution to keep your yard safe, this may be the way to go. They are also low maintenance but don’t provide privacy and are not as aesthetically pleasing as other fencing designs.
Wood: Wood will need to be stained and maintained, but it may be less expensive than vinyl or composite. You’ll need to follow some upkeep to protect your return on investment.
Vinyl: A vinyl fence has the advantage of being durable and not needing to be painted. It can be cleaned with a hose and may prove to give a return on investment over time by withstanding the elements for years to come.
Composite: Like composite materials used for other parts of your home (for example, a deck), fences made from composite use a mix of wood fibers and plastic polymers. This can give the appearance of wood while offering more durability since you won’t need to stain it like wood.
Wrought iron: Choosing a metal fence like wrought iron means picking a classic material that has been used for centuries. However, you can pick a style that is modern or classic, to make this material work for any style of home. Because these fences are very durable and will require a contractor, they can be more expensive to install than other material options.
Motorized: Metal fences may also be part of a motorized fence system, which may be combined with a masonry wall, or keypad entry system. Adding this can be a plus for buyers, but will be an investment to install.
Finding the best return on your investment
The decision about which fence will give your home the best return on your investment is a personal one. Doing research ahead of time will help you pick the type of fence that will protect your house now and for years to come.
Find an Indy-area home with a fence
Fences are an expensive addition to a new home. Search Indianapolis-homes that already have a fence installed:2022-03-20T16:09:00-07:002022-03-20T16:28:46-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12880How Many REALTORS Does it Take to Change a Lightbulb?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/lightbulbs.jpg" width="369" height="277" alt="lightbulbs" style="float: right;" />
Whenever people ask me: "Kristie, what's the easiest and cheapest thing to do before hitting the market?" The answer is easy -- especially since it is also my greatest pet peeve...
Wait for it....LIGHTBULBS! Whether I walk into a church, a house, the dentist or simply look down Carmel's Main Street, mismatched lightbulbs drive me nuts. In fact, just before Hotel Carmichael's grand opening I noticed that two of the three roof gables had creamy white colored accent lights while the third had bright white lights. After my fourth night driving by I had to say something. I mean really, how could a luxury hotel miss such a detail? It makes one wonder, "What other details are they missing?" So, I stopped in, showed the general manager, and within 24 hours, the lights all matched!
Don't get me wrong, when selling a home, changing lightbulbs is not really the exciting, sexy transformational element everyone talks about. Nor when my clients talk about selling their homes at $100,000+ over asking price do they ever respond with, "it was definitely the lightbulbs." However, lightbulb color (aka Kelvin) must match throughout a home -- or at a minimum, they must match per room and ideally per floor. This is the first (and easiest) task that any homeowner can do when prepping for sale.
Lightbulbs 101
Most people buy light bulbs simply based on LED or NON-LED status<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/chalk_board_kid.jpg" width="343" height="229" alt="chalk_board" style="float: right;" /> giving no regard to the actual color of the bulb. LED bulbs great! They tend to be brighter, more energy efficient and husband-friendly (less time changing lightbulbs since they seem to last "forever"). When it comes to the lightbulb color, however, one needs to understand Kelvin. Many lightbulb manufacturers describe lightbulbs as "soft white" or "bright white." These are the marketing terms given to describe the color output of the lightbulb.
Regardless of LED or incandescent style, residential lightbulbs mostly range between 2500K (think amber-colored Thomas Edison bulbs), 2700K (yellowish and warm in color) and 3000K (bright neutral white). The back of any lightbulb box will list the exact Kelvin color number.
If this is the first time you're hearing about Kelvin, don't blame your science teacher. Many homeowners have not been taught about Kelvin or lightbulb color. They simply go Lowe's when a lightbulb burns out and grab whatever box looks good in the moment. This is why so many bathroom vanity bars have the faux paus of mismatched lightbulb colors.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Kelvin_scale.jpg" width="624" height="297" alt="Kelvin_scale" title="Kelvin light scale" />
What lightbulbs should you buy?
If most of your lightbulbs are 2700K, then keep the warm consistency and save money. Simply replace any lightbulbs that do not match the majority of your current lightbulb color.
If you are building a new home or replacing a majority of your current lightbulbs, I recommend 3000K light bulbs throughout -- especially when selling your home. While 2700K creates a warmer feel, 3000K lightbulbs illuminate your home into that bright, fresh look which is all the design rave.
If your backyard faces north, your home should always have 3000K lightbulbs. If you ever walk into a house and say, "This house feels dark and dreary," it is most likely a north-facing backyard. This home orientation receives very little direct sunlight into the home all day.
Don't buy lightbulbs higher than 3000K. These bulbs are too "electric," look sterile and have a bluish tint. For example, 5000K bulbs are used in hospital operating rooms.
Avoid spiral light bulbs. They lack aesthetic appeal and they tend to take several minutes to warm up during a home showing.
If you are inspired to change your lightbulbs but don't want to break the bank, look for sales, buy online or consider bulk shopping. And, make sure to buy a bunch of extra lightbulbs so you can ensure an exact match when one burns out.
Lightbulbs are just one of a myriad home transformation hacks I deploy for staging homes and achieving unprecedented selling prices. Let me walk your home room-by-room and tell you the RIGHT things to do. My goal is to spend your money like it's my money, protect your equity and grow your wealth. Our team manages the entire preparation process, too!
Leave a comment and share your best lightbulb story; I'd love to hear it or give me at call at 317-815-4450! --Kristie2022-01-18T19:15:00-07:002022-01-19T06:02:37-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:10229Avoiding Craigslist real estate scams in Indianapolis<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/woman-on-computer.jpg" width="300" height="300" alt="Woman working on a laptop" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />When it comes to renting houses via Craigslist, the old saying “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is,” is especially apropos.
This scam has crisscrossed the United States for a few years now, but I want to make sure my clients and readers are aware of it. In short, scammers taking advantage of hard economic times are offering houses for rent on the classified ads site at rents well below market. Unsuspecting renters, elated by the great deal, wire their security deposit, first month’s rent, and even a rental application with valuable personal information, including their social security number. Before they know it, their money, and possibly their identity, have been filched.
What makes these ads seem so legit? The scammers go online to find houses for sale and appropriate a house’s description and pictures to create a Craigslist ad. They then use tax records to find the name of the owner and create a fake email address using the owner’s name. The back story in the ad explains why the rent is so low: the owner has been called away overseas (usually to one of Africa’s countries) for a period of two to three years and needs someone to take good care of the house while he or she is away. This story also explains why the owner is unavailable to show the house to the potential renter.
Moral of the story: Deal locally with people you can meet in person. <a href="http://indianapolis.craigslist.org/about/scams" target="_blank">According to Craigslist</a>, this one rule will help you avoid 99% of scam attempts on Craigslist. Another rule to live by: never wire money to foreign countries. Anyone who asks you to do so is a scammer. Be sure to meet a leasing agent or owner at the home you hope to rent, and get a copy of the rental agreement before you exchange any money.
If you come across a fishy listing on Craigslist, be sure to flag it using the <a href="https://indianapolis.craigslist.org/about/scams" target="_blank">“Avoiding Scams and Fraud” link</a> at the top of every page.
Finally, if you have already been a victim of a scam, the Federal Trade Commission recommends filing a police report and checking your bank accounts and credit reports regularly.
Have you come across scams like this in Craigslist’s Indianapolis rental listings? Share in the comments! And, as always, feel free to <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/">contact me</a> with any questions!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2021-12-10T16:41:00-07:002022-06-03T15:39:02-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:1173910,000 Hours: Putting in the Time it Takes!Have you have read Canadian author Malcolm Gladwell’s bestselling book, Outliers? In it he popularizes the “10,000 Hour Rule” – the hours of diligent practice it takes to achieve world-class expertise in any art or skill. Popular music icons
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/danshay.jpg" width="288" height="384" alt="Amy McIntyre & Kristie Smith" style="float: right;" class="img_box_right" />
Justin Bieber and Dan + Shay added a romantic spin to the Rule with their catchy hit, 10,000 Hours. To their love interests, the song professes their desires to dedicate 10,000 hours to knowing their partners inside-and-out. Just like with any other skill, learning and growing does not end at 10,000 hours. The song continues to emphasize spending “until the rest of their lives” cultivating deep knowledge and intimacy with their partners.
My lead buyer buyer’s agent (and sister), Amy McIntyre and I attended the Dan + Shay music concert this week. We belted out the lyrics of their hits and had a great night. In reflection of our 2021 real estate market, I am pretty sure we added another 10,000 hours in growth, challenges and development of our skills in ways we could have never imagined.
The ability to shift in the midst of adversity, significant change or uncertainly is much easier with experience. I'm so glad the 2021 real estate market hit in my 18th
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/danshay-concert.jpg" width="306" height="288" alt="Dan + Shay Concert" style="float: left;" class="img_box_left" />
year in the business versus sometime in the first five years! Our collective team
experience created the best year ever for our Indy Homes real estate team versus many REALTORS who have exiting the business.
Where have you invested your 10,000 of learning? Drop in a comment and share a skill you are proud to have mastered! I'd love to hear about it.
<br />.<br /><br /><br />
2021-10-05T10:23:00-07:002021-10-06T10:36:52-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11896Build a luxury home in Carmel's Grassy Branch at The Bridgewater Golf Club<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/grassy_branch.jpg" width="710" height="461" alt="Grassy Branch at Bridgewater" />
Consisting of 60 generously sized lots perfect for custom homebuilding, the gated community of Grassy Branch at Bridgewater is the latest addition to the luxury <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/westfield/bridgewater-club/">Bridgewater Club</a> community in <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/">Carmel</a>. Now building custom homes, Grassy Branch at Bridgewater promises to exceed the expectations of families looking for a luxury home that combines natural beauty, an active lifestyle and family togetherness.
Enjoy luxury living in Carmel
Luxuriate in the peace and beauty of Grassy Branch, which will include wooded common areas, four lakes with fountains, street trees throughout the neighborhood and extensive landscaping along bordering roads Carey Road and 151st Street. A community trail links it all, and takes strollers, joggers and bikers into the larger Bridgewater community and neighboring Maple Ridge via connecting trails.
All home sites include the Bridgewater Club Social Membership initiation fee. Enjoy the amenities and lifestyle that go along with belonging to Bridgewater Club! The clubhouse offers a variety of dining options, as well as a full-service fitness center, fitness classes, indoor lap pool, outdoor competition pool, four pickleball courts and six tennis courts. Golf enthusiasts have access to an 18-hole Championship course and a nine-hole Executive course, both designed by Pete Dye, as well as a 23-acre practice range, six-acre short game area, covered and heated stalls, indoor hitting and putting room.
Grassy Branch at Bridgewater home prices, including lot, are expected range from $900,000 to $2 million-plus. Most lots allow for daylight basement windows, while a handful can accommodate walkout basement designs. The development, located in the northwest corner of 151st Street and Carey Road, is open to all qualified and architectural review board-approved custom builders. Three gated entrances will ensure privacy, security and peace of mind.
Full Grassy Branch plot map:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Grassy-Branch.JPG" width="461" height="773" alt="Grassy Branch Map" title="Grassy Branch Map" />
Learn more about building a luxury home in Grassy Branch at Bridgewater
Want to learn more about Grassy Branch at Bridgewater? At Indy Homes, we’re well-versed in the process of building a luxury custom home and can help you select a builder and negotiate for the best deal.
For more information, please contact us at <a href="tel:(317)%20815-4450">(317) 815-4450</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2021-09-12T09:25:00-07:002021-09-12T12:34:51-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12490How To Make Moving Easier, More Economical, and Eco-Friendly<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/moving_boxes.jpg" width="709" height="427" alt="exhausted couple with moving boxes" />
I love anything that makes moving easier, because let’s face it, moving is one of the most tedious, expensive, stressful and most dreaded tasks there is.
So I was thrilled to run across this new-to-me moving solution: Bin It.
No more cardboard boxes! Instead, <a href="https://bin-it.com/indy/" target="_blank">Bin It rents out plastic bins</a> – made from recycled plastic – to pack your stuff, which means you won’t be stuck with a bunch of cardboard boxes to recycle or offload via Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor. With the glut of cardboard that’s flooded recycling sites this past year, anything we can do to reduce or reuse is a plus for the planet. On top of being good for the environment, using Bin It is also cheaper than buying boxes from your big box store. Genius, right?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/binit.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="Bin It moving bins" />
How Bin It Works
<a href="https://www.binitindy.com/" target="_blank">Reserve your bins online.</a> A variety of cost-effective packages are offered based on the size of your move. With the package you select, you also get free labels and the use of a dolly to easily move the bins. Bin It also offers other supplies for purchase that come in handy, like wrapping paper, inserts to protect glassware and china, and bubble wrap.
Your bins and supplies are delivered to your home.
Pack!
Move! Your movers will love how easily the bins stack to maximize the use of space.
After you’ve unpacked, your empty bins are picked up.
Benefits of Using Bin It
Aside from the fact that the bins are delivered and picked up at your convenience, there are several other benefits to renting from Bin It:
According to Bin It, renting is 25% cheaper than purchasing cardboard boxes.
Bin It bins are stronger than boxes, which means your breakables won’t be crushed.
Bin It bins are sanitized after every use.
You don’t have to worry about assembly and taping, saving you time.
Bin It bins are all the same size and can be nested and stacked, making storage and moving easier for you and your movers.
The Indianapolis franchise of Bin It is locally owned and operated by Katelyn and Shea Stanley, which means you’ll be supporting a local business, too. (Not to mention that Katelyn and Shea are super helpful and nice!)
In fact, the Stanleys and Bin It Indy were so kind as to offer Indy Homes' clients a 10% discount! Just ask us how!
Have you used Bin It for your recent move? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!2021-02-28T17:20:00-07:002021-03-05T17:43:31-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11674Just for Kids: Indy Homes Creative Writing Contest
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/writer_boy.png" width="715" height="476" alt="boy writing in a notebook" />
Hey, moms and dads!
Looking for fun ways to keep your kids occupied during these gray days of winter? Let them unleash their creativity by encouraging them to submit a story for Indy Homes’ first-ever creative writing contest! We’re looking for stories that answer the question, “What happens in your home after dark?”
Maybe your pets have the most epic slumber party!
Or members of your family transform into super heroes to fight for justice!
Or a trip to the refrigerator for a late-night snack turns into a crazy adventure!
Or perhaps you all love spending time together in the evening, and your kid wants to share what that experience feels like, especially during this time when we’re home a lot more.
Whether from the wells of the imagination or their own personal experience, we can’t wait to read how your kiddos answer the question, “What happens in your home after dark?”
Submission Guidelines and Rules
Kindergartners through eighth graders are eligible to participate. Submissions will be divided into three categories for judging: 1) Kindergarten through 3rd grade, 2) 4th grade through 6th grade, 3) 7th grade through 8th grade
Sibling writing teams are allowed, but stories must be entered into the age bracket of the oldest participating sibling.
Submissions should be no longer than 1,000 words and must be original works created by the writer.
Writers who can’t or don’t know how to type can ask a parent to help type their story. (Hand-written submissions are perfectly fine, too!)
Accompanying illustrations are welcome!
Entries will be judged on story-telling skill, originality, and creativity.
Prizes
A winner in each of the three age categories will be selected. Each winner will have their story published on IndyHomes.com and promoted on Indy Homes’ social media channels.
Winners will also receive a $25 gift card to locally owned <a href="https://www.4kidsbooks.net/" target="_blank">4 Kids Books and Toys</a> in Zionsville!
Deadline and Submission
The deadline for all submissions is end of day, Saturday, Feb. 20, 2021.
Please submit stories to kriemenih at gmail.com. Include the author's name and grade level.
If you prefer, hard copies can be snail-mailed to Indy Homes, 8555 N. River Rd., Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46240.
Winners will be announced Saturday, Mar. 6, 2021! We can't wait to read your kids' entries!2021-01-10T15:34:00-07:002021-02-23T19:56:31-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12300The Symbolism Behind a Red Front Door<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/home_with_red_door.png" width="715" height="476" alt="home with red door" />
This summer AJ and I vacationed in the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/savannah-getaway/">hostess city of the South</a>, Savannah, GA. While there, we rode the Old Town Trolly through the charming historic city. One of our trolly guides pointed out all the residential red front doors. Interestingly, in Scotland and in some parts of the American South, homeowners have a tradition of painting their front doors red to mark that they have paid off the home’s mortgage. In historic downtown Savannah, you can ONLY paint your front door red if you have no recorded mortgage. Each year the historical society pulls tax records to ensure no mortgage is filed on each red door parcel!
This vacation experience prompted me me to research other red door meanings as well.
First of all, why red? Hundreds of years ago, red was the most expensive paint color to produce, and its use indicated to others that the occupant could splurge a bit, thanks to owning the home free and clear.
A charming story about Albert Einstein recounts how the absent-minded genius had a habit of walking into his neighbors’ homes because he couldn’t distinguish their houses from his own. The solution? Einstein had the front door of his Princeton, NJ home painted red so he could easily pick it out from the rest on his street.
It doesn’t take an Einstein to understand the appeal of a red front door. It’s bright, it’s cheery, and yes, it makes your home stand out!
Beyond adding curb appeal, red doors hold symbolic meaning in some cultures and at different points in history.
In Chinese culture, the color red symbolizes happiness, health, and luck, while the ancient Chinese tradition of feng shui teaches that the front door of the home allows energy, or “chi” to flow into the house. Blending these two ideas by painting a front door red results in an entrance that welcomes positive energy into the home, perpetuating a happy and prosperous life for the inhabitants.
Painting a front door red to communicate that the home’s occupants welcomed weary strangers was an early American tradition. Travelers, tired from a long, difficult journey by horse and buggy, knew that they could stop at a home with a red door and be welcomed with hospitality and a good night’s rest.
American lore also tells us that escaped slaves looking for safe passage to the North via the Underground Railroad knew to search out homes with red doors. There, they would find food, safety, and shelter along their journey toward freedom.
Finally, this theme of safety also is found in the Old Testament. According to the Passover story, Israelite families held as slaves in Egypt sacrificed lambs and smeared the blood on the door of their houses, as commanded by God. When the angel of death came that night, he knew to 'pass over' these houses, sparing the lives of the Israelites' first born sons.
If you're looking for a strong color that evokes positive vibes for your home, including hospitality, prosperity, safety, and wealth, you can't go wrong with a red front door!
What color is your home's front door? Did you have a specific reason for choosing that color? Share in the comments below!
<br /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2020-11-09T17:29:00-07:002020-11-18T07:36:44-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12241Zionsville's Holliday Farms Is the Setting for This Year's Home-A-Rama! <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/coastal_home.jpg" width="710" height="472" alt="Home-A-Rama Home - Holliday Farms" />
Who’s going to the <a href="https://homearama.bagi.com/" target="_blank">Indianapolis Home-A-Rama</a>? As a REALTOR and design enthusiast, I look forward to it every year! It’s such a delight to see Indy’s top luxury builders and designers pull out all the stops to showcase their skills, creativity, and the latest home trends. And this year, Home-A-Rama is taking place in one of my favorite Zionsville communities—Holliday Farms. Eleven breath-taking homes built by some of the area’s most prominent builders will be open for touring.
Home-A-Rama opens Sept. 18-20 and continues Sept. 24-27 and Oct. 1-4. Of course, <a href="https://homearama.bagi.com/event-details/covid-safety/" target="_blank">COVID</a> makes this year’s Home-A-Rama a bit different. All <a href="https://homearama.bagi.com/tickets/" target="_blank">tickets </a>are being sold online ahead of time, and you must select a time block for your arrival. Masks are required, and social distancing protocols will be in place. A <a href="https://homearama.bagi.com/virtual-experience/" target="_blank">new virtual experience</a> will also enable anyone to enjoy the show from the convenience and safety of their own home. For just $10 you can explore each of the 11 homes via video, 3-D tours and magazine-worthy photos.
As for <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/about-holliday-farms/">Holliday Farms</a> itself, it features a wide variety of home options, gorgeous green spaces and trails, great amenities, and of course, the centerpiece Pete Dye golf course! It’s exciting to see the community continuing to take shape, especially with the completion of the Home-A-Rama homes. Holliday Farm’s <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/holliday-farms-lots/">Phases 3 and 4</a> are now open – if you’re interested in building in this luxury community, I’d love to share details with you. OR, if you’re ready to move right in, two of the Home-A-Rama homes have been listed for immediate purchase. You could buy all the staging furniture for an instant dream home! Which is your favorite—the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/property-search/11082-holliday-farms-boulevard-zionsville-in-46077/11315389_spid/">coastal cottage</a> or the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/property-search/10963-holliday-farms-boulevard-zionsville-in-46077/11316061_spid/">rustic-modern lodge</a>?
If you attend Home-A-Rama either in person or virtually, let me know what you think of the homes and interiors. Comment below!2020-09-16T19:58:00-07:002020-11-09T18:04:37-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12240Is a Robot Lawn Mower Right for You and Your Lawn?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/robot_lawn_mower.png" width="710" height="474" alt="robot lawn mower" />
Some people enjoy yard work, finding the tidying satisfying and even calming. I am not one of those people! That’s why I was intrigued to find that robot lawn mowers have grown exponentially in popularity over the past year as the technology improves and prices come down. Imagine kicking back on the deck or attending to other aspects of your busy life while what looks like a Roomba on steroids cuts your lawn to golf-course perfection.
Want to learn more about this new smart home innovation? Keep reading.
How they work
Robot lawn mowers are designed to operate frequently, cutting tiny bits off blades of grass every time. Proponents say this is healthier for your lawn, and as a result it’ll always have that “just-cut” look. Most autonomous lawn mowers use a buried boundary wire to keep within a specified perimeter; the installed wire also enables the mower to cut around trees, bushes, pools, and other irregularities in the yard. Depending on the model of mower you buy, you may have to have a pro install the boundary; there are DIY options as well. Once the wire is placed, charge up the unit (yes, these robots are electric) and program it based on your criteria. Of course, the more expensive models have a ton of bells and whistles (such as voice integration with Alexa or Google Assistant and smart phone apps), but basic models allow you to schedule mowing frequency and specify the cutting height. Built-in sensors also keep the mower from mowing over items that the kids may have left on the lawn—the mower simply redirects. No human intervention needed!
Pros and cons of autonomous lawn mowers
There are a lot of pros:
Time saver: Not only will you save time mowing the grass, maintenance is easy—it just takes minutes every year. And there’s little hassle—you won’t have to empty bags of clippings or do any raking.
Pays for itself: If you’re spending money on lawn maintenance, a smart mower can pay for itself over time.
Little noise: Most of these mowers are so quiet that you could even program them to run at night without disturbing the neighbors’ sleep
Environmentally friendly: Autonomous mowers run on electricity rather than gas. No emissions to harm the environment!
Better for your lawn: Many models are built to mow several times a week, trimming short clippings every time. These clippings stay on the lawn and decompose to fertilize the lawn.
Space saver: These devices are relatively small and will take up much less space in your garage than a typical mower.
Safety: Mowers come equipped with lift and tilt sensors that retract blades when the mower is handled or up-ended. On-board sensors also assure that objects (like bikes, toys, sports equipment, even people and pets) are maneuvered around. As long as they aren’t too dense, leaves can be mulched by the mower, and many mowers roll over dog poop without any problems. All models also come with anti-theft mechanisms so a passer-by can’t snatch the mower out of your yard.
And the cons:
Price: In my mind there is only one: Smart lawn mowers can be pricey. Mowers currently on the market run anywhere from about $950 up to $5,000. However, as I mentioned above, these mowers can pay for themselves over time. If you are paying a lawn service, it’s a no-brainer. Depending on what you buy, the mower can probably pay for itself over the course of a year or two. If you’re mowing your lawn yourself, decide how much you value an hour of your time and do a cost-benefit analysis. You may decide that a smart mower makes sense for you.
Things to keep in mind when buying
It’s important to do your homework to get a mower that works well with your yard. When evaluating mowers, you’ll need to take into account the size of your yard (the bigger the yard, the longer the battery charge you’ll need), the complexity of your yard, and the angle of any slopes (more expensive models can tackle steeper angles). You’ll also want to consider how frequently batteries and blades need to be replaced, how noisy the mower is, the speed at which it operates, and the width of the cutting deck. There are many other possible features that you many find appealing. For example, many mowers have rain sensors that send them back to their charging base when moisture is in the air, and some can even run in the rain. Some mowers handle edges better than others. If you insist on tidy edges and don’t want to have to trim them yourself, look for a mower that can tackle the job. And, as mentioned above, you might like the convenience of commanding your mower through Alexa.
Where to buy a robot lawn mower
Mowers can be found on Amazon, at big-box hardware stores, and through boutique specialty sellers. During my research, I found that Indy has an <a href="https://www.autmow.com/#/" target="_blank">Autmow franchise</a>. These specialists come to you to assess your lawn, demo mowers, and answer any questions.
There are still a few months of mowing season left this fall, and it’s not too early to plan for next spring. Outsource your lawn mowing to a dependable robot, and take some time back for you!
If you own a robot lawn mower, I’d love to hear about your experience. Comment below!2020-09-14T17:42:00-07:002020-09-17T11:23:08-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11094Holliday Farms - Zionsville's New Country Club Community
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/holliday_farms_family.jpg" width="714" height="400" alt="Family enjoying Holliday Farms" />
With a unanimous vote the Zionsville Town Council approved the rezoning of 597 rural acres at Michigan and Willow roads that will become a luxury community in the heart of Zionsville. And while <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/">Zionsville </a> already has an abundance of luxury neighborhoods, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/about-holliday-farms/" target="_blank">Holliday Farms</a> represents a new kind of community in Zionsville, complete with a mix of residence types, nature-filled green spaces, an 18-hole Pete Dye designed golf course (plus 9-hole executive course) and a club house overlooking Eagle Creek.
Our team was fortunate to meet with Brad Henke of Henke Development Group, the developer of Holliday Farms, to get an overview. We gathered at the old brick Holliday farmhouse just northwest of Interactive Academy. Under the noontime sun, Brad showed us a proposed map for the community, which is approved for up to 595 residences, a “village” area that will be home to a variety of restaurants and businesses, nature trails and park, and an enormous club house that will be the epicenter of the neighborhood with a fitness center, tennis, a pool with swim-up bar, several dining options and much more. As with their developments <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/bridgewater-club/">Bridgewater Club</a> in Carmel and <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/westfield/chatham-hills/">Chatham Hills</a> in Westfield, the Henkes envision a highly livable neighborhood that puts family and community at its center.
Hold your lot for $500
Lots began being staked in February 2019, and work on the golf course, which is expected to be completed in the spring of 2021, is humming along. A list of builders can be found <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/holliday-farms-builders/" target="_blank">here</a>. A $500 fee, which is fully refundable, holds your lot. With a variety of housing options to choose from—everything from two-acre estate homes to empty nest ranches to multi-story townhomes—lots are expected to be priced $95,000 - $500,000. Lot selection will be done via lottery, and those who hold their lots early will be prioritized. So, the sooner you <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/holliday-farms-lots/" target="_blank">hold your lot</a> the better your selection will be!
I’m certain that Holliday Farms will enhance the overall appeal of Zionsville. In fact, my husband AJ and I just became founding members of Holliday Farms’ club—we’re that excited about this fabulous addition to our town!
If you're building, you need a REALTOR
If you plan to build in Holliday Farms, and haven't considered hiring a REALTOR to represent you, I invite you to read this article, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/buyers/building-your-home/">"Five good reasons to hire a REALTOR when building your house."</a> In short, hiring a Realtor when building your home will ensure that your best interests are looked after and that you get the most value for your money. Our team also has detailed information about each Holliday Farms builder and will help you choose the right builder for your property, your budget and your needs.
Learn more
If you’re interested in learning more about Holliday Farms, I’d love to tell you all about it. And, having just completed my custom home in 2017, I have many tips to share as you design and build your home, too! Please fill out the form below and I'll be in touch, or feel free to call me at<a href="tel:317-313-3200" target="_blank"> (317) 313-3200</a>.
For more Holliday Farms information & resources, visit our <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/about-holliday-farms/" target="_blank">Holliday Farms website</a> where we add new updates regularly!
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<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2020-08-17T12:52:00-07:002020-08-19T09:29:54-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12204Homes are Currently More Affordable than they Have Been in Years<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/father_with_daughter2.jpg" width="750" height="410" alt="father" title="father" />
It's no secret that Indianapolis home prices are appreciating. When we hear about prices are going up, it’s normal to think that purchasing a home will cost more as prices increase. Contrary to this natural assumption, low mortgage rates are actually making homes more affordable -- even as home prices continue to rise. Let's break down the rationale for this:
According to the Mortgage Monitor Report from Black Knight:
“While home prices have risen for 97 consecutive months, July’s record-low mortgage rates have made purchasing the average-priced home the most affordable it’s been since 2016.”
How is that possible?
Black Knight continues to explain:
“As of mid-July, it required 19.8% of the median monthly income to make the mortgage payment on the average-priced home purchase, assuming a 20% down payment and a 30-year mortgage. That was more than 5% below the average of 25% from 1995-2003.
This means it currently requires a $1,071 monthly payment to purchase the average-priced home, which is down 6% from the same time last year, despite the average home increasing in value by more than $12,000 during that same time period.
In fact, buying power is now up 10% year-over-year, meaning the average home buyer can afford nearly $32,000 more home than they could at the same time last year, while keeping their monthly payment the same.”
This is great news for the many buyers who were unable to purchase last year, or earlier in the spring due to the slowdown from the pandemic. By waiting a little longer, Central Indiana buyers can now afford 10% more home than they could have a year ago while keeping their monthly mortgage payment unchanged. WOW! This is amazing and won't last for long.
With mortgage rates hitting all-time lows eight times this year, it’s now less expensive to borrow money -- making homes significantly more affordable over the lifetime of your loan. Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, shares what low mortgage rates mean for affordability:
“In July, house-buying power got a big boost as the 30-year, fixed mortgage rate made history by moving below three percent. That drop in the mortgage rate from 3.23 percent in May to 2.98 percent in July increased house-buying power by nearly $15,000.”
The map below shows the last time homes were this affordable by state:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/map.jpg" width="1000" height="750" alt="map" title="map" />
In six states – Arkansas, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, and West Virginia – homes have not been this affordable in more than 25 years.
Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of making a move in Indianapolis, Carmel or Zionsville, now is a great time to take advantage of the affordability that comes with such low mortgage rates. Whether you’re thinking of purchasing your first home or even downsizing, you'll most likely be able to secure a significantly lower mortgage rate than you have on your current house! 2020-08-14T09:54:00-07:002020-08-14T10:25:22-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12195Today's Buyers are Serious about Buying a Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/serious_buyers.jpg" width="750" height="410" alt="serious_buyers" title="serious_buyers" />
Today’s Indianapolis homebuyers are not just talking about their plans, they’re actively engaged in the buying process – and they’re serious about it. A recent report by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) indicates:
“…. Of American adults considering a future home purchase in the second quarter of 2020, about half (49%) are not simply planning it, they are actively engaged in the process to find a home. That is a significantly higher share than the comparable figure a year ago (41%), which suggests that the COVID-19 crisis and its accompanying record-low mortgage rates have converted some prospective buyers into active buyers.”
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/chart2.jpg" width="1000" height="563" alt="chart" title="chart" />Today’s Indianapolis, Carmel & Zionsville buyers are serious about buying a home! Any local REALTOR knows that all too well, as buyers are out in full force today. Many Americans now need more space to work from home, and the current low mortgage rates are providing an extra boost of motivation to enter the housing market.
If you’re considering selling your house, know that today’s buyers are serious about making a move. Your opportunity to sell your house in a market with high demand is growing, especially as more millennials enter the housing market too. The same report also notes:
“Of Millennials planning a home purchase in the next year, 57% are already actively searching for a home.”
Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, explains:
“When breaking down house-buying power by educational attainment for millennials in 2019, we find that the higher the education, the higher the household income, and the higher the house-buying power. In 2019, median house-buying power for millennials increased 16 percent relative to 2018.”
As demand for homes to buy grows and more millennials enter the market with growing buying power, the opportunity to sell your house grows too.
Today’s active buyers are serious ones, and more millennials are helping to fuel that charge. So, if you’re considering the sale of your Indianapolis home, let’s connect to determine your next steps in the process while buyers are actively looking. We are seeing a slight shift already from the frenzy from a couple months ago, so if you want to sell, let's move quickly before this hot seller's market dwindles.2020-08-08T12:17:00-07:002020-08-08T12:38:40-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12196Working from Home is Changing Homebuyer Needs<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/workhome.jpg" width="750" height="410" alt="work from home" title="work from home" />
With more Indianapolis companies figuring out how to efficiently and effectively enable their employees to work remotely (and for longer than most of us initially expected), homeowners throughout the country are re-evaluating their needs. Do I still need to live close to my company’s office building? Do I need a larger home with more office space? Would making a move to the suburbs make more sense for my family? All of these questions are on the table for many Americans as we ride the wave of the current health crisis and consider evolving homeownership needs.
According to George Ratiu, Senior Economist for realtor.com:
“The ability to work remotely is expanding home shoppers’ geographic options and driving their motivation to buy, even if it means a longer commute, at least in the short term…Although it’s too early to tell what long-term impact the COVID-era of remote work will have on housing, it’s clear that the pandemic is shaping how people live and work under the same roof.”
Working remotely is definitely changing how Americans spend their time at home, and also how they use their available square footage. Homeowners aren’t just looking for a room for a home office, either. The desire to have a home gym, an updated kitchen, and more space in general – indoor and outdoor – are all key factors motivating some buyers to change their home search parameters.
A recent realtor.com-HarrisX survey indicates:
“In a June poll of 2,000 potential home shoppers who indicated plans to make a purchase in the next year, 63% of those currently working from home stated their potential purchase was a result of their ability to work remotely, while nearly 40% [of] that number expected to purchase a home within four to six months and 13% said changes related to pandemic fueled their interest in buying a new home."
Clearly, Americans are thinking differently about homeownership today, and through a new lens. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) notes:
“New single-family home sales jumped in June, as housing demand was supported by low interest rates, a renewed consumer focus on the importance of housing, and rising demand in lower-density markets like suburbs and exurbs.”
Through these challenging times, you may have found your home becoming your office, your children’s classroom, your workout facility, and your family’s safe haven. This has quickly shifted what home truly means to many American families. More than ever, having a place to focus on professional productivity while many competing priorities (and distractions!) are knocking on your door is challenging homeowners to get creative, use space wisely, and ultimately find a place where all of these essential needs can realistically be met. In many cases, a new home is the best option.
In today’s real estate market, making a move while mortgage rates are hovering at historic lows may enable you to purchase more home for your money, just when you and your family need it most.
If your personal and professional needs have changed and you’re ready to accommodate all of your family’s competing priorities, let’s connect and create a transition plan. Making a move into a larger home may be exactly what you need to set your family up for optimal long-term personal and professional success.2020-08-01T12:57:00-07:002020-08-08T13:19:23-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11760Pretty in Pink!<br />I LOVE pink. From pink clothes, to jewelry, to toenails – it is unquestionably<br />my favorite color. In our first home, much of our design decisions centered upon thinking about resale. In Fenix, and our home that burned down, however, I wanted to stretch my comfort zone and “dare to design.”
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/CraftRoom1.jpg" width="3200" height="2138" alt="craft_room" title="Craft_Room" />
My favorite painter, Tom, decided that the best shade of pink for me would be one that Sherwin-Williams calls “Impatient Pink” – an assessment he made after careful examination of my personality. This color has graced two of my home offices. Interior designer Jennifer O’Connor, proprietor of Dare 2 Design, helped make the pinks rooms flow with fabrics and accents that tie everything together.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/pretty_in_pink_lfh.png" width="361" height="287" style="margin: 5px; float: left;" /><br />While Jennifer also did an amazing job with our kitchen, master suite, and basement, the rooms that I love the most scream PRETTY PINK!!<br /><br />I can't wait to figure out where we will land next – wherever we end up post-apartment living, I am sure you'll see the glow of my splash of pink from the street. You can’t miss us!
Please share some pink inspired home offices or craft rooms so I can begin a Pinterest Board for our new home.2020-07-15T06:26:00-07:002020-08-03T10:53:11-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:10131Pros and Cons of Buying a Carmel home on a Golf CourseAs the weather warms up, avid golfers hit the links on any day above 50 degrees, golf leagues kick off and the fairways turn emerald green. It’s a magical time for golf course communities in Carmel.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/golf.jpg" width="1640" height="856" alt="golf" title="golf" />
Now, I’m not a golfer, but I love Carmel homes on a golf course—from a real estate perspective. I recently learned that only 25% of people that buy a home in a golf course community actually become members of their home club. Many golf course homes have fully rebounded from the economic and housing downturn, allowing those selling golf course homes to get more for their money.
Pros and cons of living on a golf course
1. Scenery<br />
Pro: Green Vistas are gorgeous to enjoy on a quiet evening when all of the golfers have gone home. Buyers today are very lot sensitive, meaning that where their home sits is as important as the home itself. Carmel golf courses are meticulously manicured, offering green vistas and sweeping views.
Con: Those gorgeous manicured lawns require a lot of maintenance. This means that groundskeepers will be up very early to start mowing, trimming, and perfecting the golf course.
2. More privacy
Pro: Instead of looking into neighbors’ rear windows, a home on the golf course scores views of emerald green links. Carmel homes on a golf course typically have significant setbacks from the actual course, which means that homes on the other side of the course do as well.
Con: Golfing tournaments or a busy day can attract large crowds walking, essentially, right through your backyard. This may be an issue if you plan on entertaining during the day. For the most part though, golf courses are transitory spaces and people are on the move only briefly between holes.
3. Social community
Pro:For buyers seeking a sense of community in their next move, a home on a golf course is a great choice. As mentioned above, the majority of residents in a golf course community don’t actually golf. However, Carmel community clubhouses features restaurants, bars, planned events for the families and many other ways to connect with neighbors.
Con: The grounds are not for your own personal use. Letting the kids play, or hosting a party on the smooth green is not allowed, considering there are lots of people who pay to play on that golf course every day.
4. Healthier amenities
Pro: The clubhouse provides a gym right within your community and many clubs have spa services as well. Group fitness classes like yoga can be found in clubs along with nutritionists. Living in a Carmel golf course community can bring health and wellness to your front door.
Con: Participating in these social clubs can often be a costly venture. But a large community with a bustling social life might just be worth it.
You may even gather a nice golf ball collection from rogue drives from the course. Stray balls are a hazard of living on a golf course, which is why it is important to choose a home that is positioned properly on the course. Courses are masterfully planned, so the risk of losing a window isn’t great even though it should be considered.
View all ACTIVE properties below for sale with a golf views:
2020-07-01T14:55:00-07:002020-08-14T10:28:32-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12152Visiting the Hostess City of the SouthLiving in the Midwest, it’s always interesting to venture to the East Coast and experience a city steeped in history that stretches back to colonial times. While adventurous frontiersmen pushed west, establishing rustic trading posts in Indiana, Illinois and Michigan, sophisticated cities were thriving all along the eastern seaboard. Founded in 1733 in colonial Georgia, Savannah is one of those cities.
AJ and I were able to make a quick getaway to lovely Savannah in June. With its quaint architecture, cobblestone streets, and scenic riverfront, Savannah exudes charm, graciousness and a feeling of historic antiquity that can be rare in the Midwest. And after a few months of quarantine, it was wonderful to experience a change of scenery and culture!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/pink_house.jpg" width="357" height="477" alt="pink_house" title="pink_house" style="float: right;" />
Our favorite thing to do when visiting a new city is to stay in a bustling area and walk, walk, walk everywhere to experience the city’s vibe as a local would. With the <a href="https://www.kesslercollection.com/bohemian-savannah/" target="_blank">Bohemian Hotel</a> as the home-base for our long weekend, we had the riverfront, downtown squares and Savannah’s Historic District within easy reach. Besides taking in all the history and preserved architecture, my favorite stops included the extensive farmers’ market in Forsyth Park (I love buying local prepared food to take home as gifts and souvenirs) and dinner at the <a href="https://www.theoldepinkhouserestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Olde Pink House</a>, where we enjoyed pink cocktails (of course!).
And everyone was so friendly! It’s easy to see how Savannah earned the nickname “Hostess City of the South.” I know I’ve said it many times, but little things and simple pleasures—like exploring a quirky city over a laid-back weekend with your guy—are what make life so fun and memorable!2020-06-22T08:43:00-07:002020-06-22T09:36:59-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:10155Do you have Netflix Streaming Syndrome?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/TV.jpg" width="1999" height="1333" alt="tv" title="tv" />
It's been six years since first signing up for Netflix. Prior to that it seemed as if I were the only person in Indianapolis still doing the DVR thing, not knowing much about on-demand streaming or understanding the hype behind "Orange Is the New Black." At the time, I was the girl who would always say, “No, I haven’t seen that show.”
Like most people, Netflix and on-demand streaming quickly became the way that we watch all-things television and movies. I’m completely hooked and rarely watch live TV except for my favorite football sports team: Indianapolis Colts footall.
Most of the time I watch limited TV -- just a show or two that I watch weekly as new episodes are released. During my time during quarantine, however, I've become that girl asking "what's cool to watch on Netflix?" Like so many of you, I've picked up a few new shows that hooked me. One of those is "Ozark" that I started last week. Over the weekend I watched THE ENTIRE FIRST SEASON in one day. I don’t even think I showered or left the couch much during that day.
What a waste. Who does that? Well after some Internet research, I discovered that many people have Netflix Streaming Syndrome. Yes, it’s a real syndrome. To be fair to some of you high-tech TV folks, it might be more like “Netflix/Hulu/Xfinity/Amazon/YouTube Streaming Syndrome.” Basically, you might have it if you find yourself with these symptoms:
Insomnia brought on by watching every episode of a compelling series in a row at the expense of getting a good night’s sleep.
Anti-social behavior as a result of staying in and making it a “Netflix night” rather than going out in public and seeing other human beings.
A gnawing impatience when you can’t watch what you want to watch when you want to watch it coupled with fits of rage when movies are not available for streaming and you must wait two whole days for an actual disc to arrive in a little red envelope in the mail.
I sure hope my “syndrome” symptom is due to my coronaphoria setting in and not a definition of a future problem with Netflix. As in, this girl who hardly watches TV surely had an identity crisis this weekend.
And, if you have a fun Netflix story, I would love to hear it for moral support. Let’s all support each other!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2020-04-28T04:05:00-07:002020-04-28T08:41:06-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12101Coronaphoria!I hope that by the time you read this the curve has been utterly flattened, society has safely opened up a bit, and that you and your loved ones are healthy and happy.
Like me, I’m sure you’ve had ups and downs throughout the weeks of staying at home. At different points I’ve experienced anxiety and stress punctuated with moments of calm and even quarantine-induced delirium. (My husband AJ and I coined a term for this state of mind, “coronaphoria.” Ha!)
In all challenges, I try to look for the silver lining and came up with this list gratitude list:
I love the simple pleasure of walking to the Carmel Farmers Market every Saturday with AJ. We practice social distancing, get some fresh veggies, and enjoy the fresh air. It’s a treat. I'm considering volunteering at the market this summer.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/kristie_COVID.jpg" width="362" height="452" style="float: right;" />
I’m thrilled that AJ and I are enjoying a lot of time with each other in our 1,500-square-foot apartment. Honestly, we don’t even spend this much time together while on vacation, but we’re making the most of it, and it’s been fun.
Easter was one for the memory book! We usually celebrate with family, but this year, it was just the two of us. We dressed up for church and live-streamed Traders Point’s Easter Sunday service. Afterward, we feasted on leg of lamb from <a href="https://www.goosethemarket.com/" target="_blank">Goose the Market</a> that we marinated the night prior. The meal included all the fixins’ and we enjoyed a Zoom call with our families later that evening.
It’s been said over and over, but our front-line workers are absolute heroes. We cannot thank them enough for the sacrifices they have made to help ensure that society continues to function and that the sick among us are treated and cared for. I’m also grateful that AJ, an anesthesiologist, remains healthy despite the danger he encounters every time he intubates a COVID-19 patient in the ICU. I know that he—and I—are incredibly lucky, because so many have lost so much.
As always, thank you for your business, support, and friendship. Please know that I hope and pray for your continued safety and health. Please share what you’re grateful for during this time and tell me your fun quarantine stories!
2020-04-25T14:14:00-07:002020-04-25T15:12:56-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:10211Does a pool make sense?Being in 2020 quarantine with our recent hot, dry weather might have you thinking about adding a pool to your home or, if you’re in the market, buying a home with a pool. Sounds great, huh? But before you take the plunge (pun intended!), learn how a pool could affect your home’s value and your wallet.
A pool will add value to my home, won’t it?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Hot_tub.jpg" width="550" height="367" style="float: right;" />
It might seem like a no-brainer; after all, pools are luxury amenities, right? Wrong. In Indiana, where outdoor pools can be used just a few months out of the year, a pool may not add to the value of your home in any significant way. And a pool could dramatically decrease the number of potential buyers when you need to sell, since many homebuyers don’t want the hassle of pool maintenance, not to mention the safety worries.
An in-ground pool could add some value if it’s well maintained, if it complements the overall style of the house and if it’s accompanied by popular backyard amenities, such as an outdoor kitchen. Also, homes with pools are more likely to sell if they are protected by a fence or a cover.
It’s important to note that above-ground pools, which are considered personal property, won’t add any value to the home.
But I really want a pool!
If you are looking to buy a home and want to have a pool, your best bet is to buy a home with an existing, well-maintained in-ground pool, rather than adding a pool after you purchase a home. Pools are very expensive to build, and you will not recoup those costs when you sell your home.
Remember too that pools add to the home’s overall maintenance—you’ll need to add chemicals, monitor chlorine levels, scoop out debris, and prepare the pool as the seasons change. Do you and your family have time for all of this? In addition to labor and time costs, pools directly hit your wallet as well—your electricity and water bills will increase and so will your homeowners insurance. And of course, you’ll have chemicals and other necessities to buy.
What should I know before I buy a home with a pool?
Before you buy, ask the seller for any maintenance and repair records he might have for the pool, and include the pool in the home inspection. THIS IS IMPORTANT!
Obtain recent prices from local pool companies on similar pools to see if you are overpaying for the seller’s pool, especially if it needs updating. Most pool companies are happy to oblige in order to get the maintenance, repair, or redesign business from the new owner.
With so much to consider when opting for a pool, it’s important to weigh all the pros and cons. Be realistic with yourself. Will you really use the pool? Will you make time for all of the required maintenance? Can you afford the upkeep? Do you have the proper insurance and safety features in-place for pool ownership?
Lastly, a great alternative to pool ownership is to purchase a home in a neighborhood that offers a community pool. You can enjoy all the aquatic fun without the cost or hassle of your own pool. Be sure to ask us for our list of Indianapolis neighborhoods with swimming pools.
However you’re staying cool, I hope you’re enjoying your summer in Indianapolis!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2020-04-21T04:14:00-07:002020-04-21T11:13:03-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12084Get Your House Ready For Sale!Believe it or not, there are lots of things you can do to prep your house for a sale without even going to the store.
Your real estate plans don’t have to be completely on hold even while we’ve hit the pause button on other parts of daily life.
Tackling small projects from cleaning the corners you may normally skip to tidying up your yard are easy and necessary wins if you’re thinking of listing your house and making a move.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/house-ready.jpg" width="1264" height="2048" />2020-04-13T13:38:00-07:002020-04-13T13:58:18-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12063Coronavirus Impact on Indianapolis Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Covid-19.jpg" width="2000" height="1135" alt="Covid-19" title="cononavirus" />
The coronavirus pandemic has created many <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/dont-let-frightening-economic-headlines-scare-you/" target="_blank">frightening headlines</a> over the past few weeks. In times of uncertainty, one of the best things we can do to ease our fears is to educate ourselves with <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/dont-let-frightening-economic-headlines-scare-you/" target="_blank">research, facts, and data</a>. Digging into past experiences, reviewing historical trends, and understanding the peaks and valleys of what’s come before us is one of the many ways we can confidently evaluate any situation.
With concerns of a global recession on everyone’s minds today, it’s important to take an objective look at what has transpired over the years and how the housing market has successfully weathered these storms. Have comfort in knowing that even with an economic downturn, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/this-downturn-is-nothing-like-the-2008-crash/" target="_blank">it will be nothing like the 2008 housing crash</a>!
The Facts About the Indianapolis Real Estate Market
Sellers have continued to list their Indianapolis and suburban homes during the coronavirus pandemic, albeit at a much slower pace than typical for mid-March. With real estate deemed an essential Indiana business, buyers and their REALTORS® have continued to view active homes for sale with national safety precautions in-place.
Surprisingly, in the last two weeks of March, 2020 our Central Indiana housing market saw 1713 pendings of residential properties -- while the the same dates in 2019 pended 1774 residential properties.
Buyers are still champing at the bit to find homes in high volumes, and we are encouraging all of our sellers to NOT WAIT until this "all blows over" and list their homes for sale NOW! Delayed seller listings will lead to a pent-up amount of listings that all hit the market simultaneously. This onslaught of homes will lead to a temporary imbalance of supply/demand leading to lowering home prices just after the quarantine is over. In order to net the most for your home, we are encouraging all sellers to list now and stand out among buyers looking right now.
We are asking that all sellers take this advice seriously. There are a subset of buyers who are compelled to purchase immediately. One segment of buyers is the inpouring of transferees currently looking for homes. With new year corporate job offers accepted in January and February, relocation professionals are scrambling to find homes. Additionally, the influx of incoming medical professionals who need to arrive in Indianapolis for their June start dates has created a frenzy from hundreds of <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/new-residents-find-perfect-home/" target="_blank">physicians seeking housing</a> based on the March 17th medical match results.
We are encouraging all sellers planning a 2020 move to being marketing their homes now!
Why Indy Homes Team & Keller Williams Realty?
Our Keller Williams CEO Gary Keller, a real estate veteran with four decades of experience, hosted a livestream with more than 160,000 associates last Monday.
Keller announced how the company is supporting its agents
in a time of a global pandemic and the accompanying market slowdown:
“We are doubling down on the heart, training, technology and leadership needed to protect and power our agents’ business through the unexpected,” Keller said. “We feel we are fully positioned to stay digitally connected and deliver the best training content in our industry, even while we all may be at home with families, where we belong.”
Who you hire matters! Indy Homes team powered by <a href="http://www.kw.com" target="_parent">Keller Williams Realty</a> and led by REALTOR <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/our-team/meet-kristie-smith/" target="_blank">Kristie Smith</a> is the best Indianapolis real estate team equipped with the knowledge, skills, technology and experience in these unprecedented times. Please contact us FIRST for your real estate market questions answered!
YES, CONTACT ME ABOUT SELLING MY HOME:2020-03-28T07:49:00-07:002020-03-30T14:57:09-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12064This Downturn is Nothing Like the 2008 Housing Crash!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/orange.jpg" width="750" height="410" alt="orange" title="orange" />
With all of the volatility in the stock market and uncertainty about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), some are concerned we may be headed for another housing crash like the one we experienced from 2006-2008. The feeling is understandable. Ali Wolf, Director of Economic Research at the real estate consulting firm Meyers Research, addressed this point in a <a href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/how-the-coming-recession-will-affect-the-housing-market/" target="_blank">recent interview</a>:
“With people having PTSD from the last time, they’re still afraid of buying at the wrong time.”
There are many reasons, however, indicating this real estate market is nothing like 2008. Comparing the two is as different as apples versus oranges.
1. Mortgage standards are nothing like they were back then.
During the housing bubble, it was difficult NOT to get a mortgage. Today, it is tough to qualify. The Mortgage Bankers’ Association releases a <a href="https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/single-family-research/mortgage-credit-availability-index" target="_blank">Mortgage Credit Availability Index</a> which is “a summary measure which indicates the availability of mortgage credit at a point in time.” The higher the index, the easier it is to get a mortgage. During the housing bubble, the index skyrocketed. Currently, the index indicates that getting a mortgage is even more difficult than it was before the bubble.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/mortgage_credit.jpg" width="1000" height="563" alt="mortgage" title="mortgage" />
2. Prices are not soaring out of control.
Below is a graph showing annual house appreciation over the past six years, compared to the six years leading up to the height of the housing bubble. Though price appreciation has been quite strong recently, it is nowhere near the rise in prices that preceded the crash.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/appreciation.jpg" width="1000" height="563" alt="appreciaion" title="appreciation" />
There’s a stark difference between these two periods of time. Normal appreciation is 3.6%, so while current appreciation is higher than the historic norm, it’s certainly not accelerating beyond control as it did in the early 2000s.
3. We don’t have a surplus of homes on the market. We have a shortage.
The months’ supply of inventory needed to sustain a normal real estate market is approximately six months. Anything more than that is an overabundance and will causes prices to depreciate. Anything less than that is a shortage and will lead to continued appreciation. There were too many homes for sale in 2007, and that caused prices to tumble. Today, there’s a shortage of inventory which is causing an acceleration in home values. In Central Indiana we have less than a 30-day supply of inventory for several housing types.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/inventory.jpg" width="1000" height="563" alt="inventory" title="inventory" />
4. Houses became too expensive to buy.
The affordability formula has three components: the price of the home, the wages earned by the purchaser, and the mortgage rate available at the time. Fourteen years ago, prices were high, wages were low, and mortgage rates were over 6%. Today, prices are still high. Wages, however, have increased and the mortgage rate is about 3.5%. That means the average family pays less of their monthly income toward their mortgage payment than they did back then.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/median_income.jpg" width="1000" height="563" alt="income" title="income" />
5. People are equity rich, not tapped out.
In the run-up to the housing bubble, homeowners were using their homes as a personal ATM machine. Many immediately withdrew their equity once it built up, and they learned their lesson in the process. Prices have risen nicely over the last few years, leading to over fifty percent of homes in the country having greater than 50% equity. But owners have not been tapping into it like the last time. Homeowners have cashed out over $500 billion dollars less than before:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/home_equity.jpg" width="1000" height="563" alt="home_euity" title="home equity" />
During the crash, home values began to fall, and sellers found themselves in a negative equity situation (where the amount of the mortgage they owned was greater than the value of their home). Some decided to walk away from their homes, and that led to a rash of distressed property listings (foreclosures and short sales), which sold at huge discounts, thus lowering the value of other homes in the area. That can’t happen today.
Bottom Line
If you’re concerned we’re making the same mistakes that led to the housing crash, take a look at the data above to help alleviate your fears. For evidence-based Indianapolis market data, please <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact us</a> for a consultation.2020-03-27T11:22:00-07:002020-03-28T12:12:57-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12061Don't Let Frightening Economic Headlines Scare You!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/anxiety.jpg" width="750" height="410" alt="coronavirus anxiety" title="coronavirus_anxiety" />
There is a great deal of anxiety right now regarding the coronavirus pandemic. The health situation must be addressed quickly, and many are concerned about the impact on the economy and the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/coronavirus-impact-on-indianapolis-real-estate/" target="_blank">real estate market</a> as well.
Amidst all this anxiety, anyone with a megaphone – from the mainstream media to a lone blogger – has realized that bad news sells. Unfortunately, we will continue to see a rash of horrifying headlines over the next few months. Let’s make sure we aren’t paralyzed by a headline before we get the full story.
When it comes to the health issue, you should look to the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)</a> or the<a href="http://www.who.int" target="_blank"> World Health Organization (WHO)</a> for the most reliable information.
Finding reliable resources with information on the economic and housing impact of the virus is more difficult. For this reason, it’s important to shed some light on the situation. There are already alarmist headlines starting to appear. Here are two such examples surfacing this week.
1. Goldman Sachs Forecasts the Largest Drop in GDP in Almost 100 Years
It sounds like Armageddon. Though the headline is true, it doesn’t reflect the full essence of the Goldman Sachs <a href="https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/podcasts/episodes/03-23-2020-jan-hatzius.html" target="_blank">forecast</a>. The projection is actually that we’ll have a tough first half of the year, but the economy will bounce back nicely in the second half; GDP will be up 12% in the third quarter and up another 10% in the fourth.
The true fact of the Goldman Sachs GDP Forecast released this week indicates that although there is no growth anticipated immediately, gains are forecasted heading into the second half of this year and getting even stronger in early 2021.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Goldman_Sachs.jpg" width="1000" height="750" alt="Goldman Sachs" title="Goldman Sachs" />This aligns with <a href="https://www.realestateconsulting.com/march-19-2020-housing-survival-to-date/" target="_blank">research </a>from John Burns Consulting involving pandemics, the economy, and home values. They concluded:
“Historical analysis showed us that pandemics are usually V-shaped (sharp recessions that recover quickly enough to provide little damage to home prices), and some very cutting-edge search engine analysis by our Information Management team showed the current slowdown is playing out similarly thus far.”
**The economy will suffer for the next few months, but then it will recover. That is certainly not Armageddon.**
2. Fed President Predicts 30% Unemployment!
That <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-22/fed-s-bullard-says-u-s-jobless-rate-may-soar-to-30-in-2q" target="_blank">statement</a> was made by James Bullard, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. What Bullard actually said was it “could” reach 30%. But let’s look at what else he said in the same Bloomberg News interview:
“This is a planned, organized partial shutdown of the U.S. economy in the second quarter,” Bullard said. “The overall goal is to keep everyone, households and businesses, whole” with government support.
According to Bloomberg, he also went on to say:
“I would see the third quarter as a transitional quarter” with the fourth quarter and first quarter next year as “quite robust” as Americans make up for lost spending. “Those quarters might be boom quarters,” he said.
**We will have a tough first half and rebound quickly.**
Now, let's look to facts about the housing market:
1. A Recession Does Not Equal a Housing Crisis
Take a look at the past five recessions in U.S. history. Home values actually appreciated in three of them. It is true that they sank by almost 20% during the last recession, but as we’ve identified above, 2008 presented different circumstances. In the four previous recessions, home values depreciated only once (by less than 2%). In the other three, residential real estate values increased by 3.5%, 6.1%, and 6.6% (see below):
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/housing_crisis.jpg" width="1080" height="1350" alt="housing_crisis" title="housing crisis" />
2. The Market Today Is Vastly Different from 2008
We all remember 2008. This is not 2008. Today’s market conditions are far from the time when housing was a key factor that triggered a recession. From easy-to-access mortgages to skyrocketing home price appreciation, a surplus of inventory, excessive equity-tapping, and more – we’re not where we were 12 years ago. None of those factors are in play today. Rest assured, housing is not a catalyst that could spiral us back to that time or place.
According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, if there is a recession:
“It will be different than the Great Recession. Things unraveled pretty quickly, and then the recovery was pretty slow. I would expect this to be milder. There’s no dysfunction in the banking system, we don’t have many households who are overleveraged with their mortgage payments and are potentially in trouble.”
Both of these expert sources indicate this is a momentary event in time, not a collapse of the financial industry. It is a drop that will rebound quickly, a stark difference to the crash of 2008 that failed to get back to a sense of normal for almost four years. Although it poses plenty of near-term financial challenges, a potential recession this year is not a repeat of the long-term housing market crash we remember all too well.
3. We Can Be Confident About What We Know
Concerns about the global impact COVID-19 will have on the economy are real. And they’re scary, as the health and wellness of our friends, families, and loved ones are high on everyone’s emotional radar.
According to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-17/economists-rush-to-quantify-coming-slump-as-trump-invokes-r-word" target="_blank">Bloomberg</a>,
“Several economists made clear that the extent of the economic wreckage will depend on factors such as how long the virus lasts, whether governments will loosen fiscal policy enough and can markets avoid freezing up.”
That said, we can be confident that, while we don’t know the exact impact the virus will have on the housing market, we do know that housing isn’t the driver.
The reasons we move – marriage, children, job changes, retirement, etc. – are steadfast parts of life. As noted in a recent piece in the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/13/business/buying-a-home-coronavirus.html" target="_blank">New York Times</a>, “Everyone needs someplace to live.” That won’t change.
Bottom Line
There is an onslaught of misinformation out there. If you want the best advice on the economic impact on Indianapolis housing and the real estate market, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/" target="_blank">let's talk today</a>. We have also broken down the actual coronavirus' <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/coronavirus-impact-on-indianapolis-real-estate/" target="_blank">impact on the Indianapolis real estate market</a>. And remember, no matter what happens, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/this-downturn-is-nothing-like-the-2008-crash/" target="_blank">this downturn will be nothing like the crash of 2008</a>!2020-03-26T06:25:00-07:002020-03-28T12:10:57-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12048New Residents, We'll Help You Find the Perfect Home!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/residents.jpg" width="697" height="445" alt="medical residents" />
Congratulations to all fourth-year medical students around the country who celebrated Match Day on Friday March 20th! Hopefully your Match celebration parties will be rescheduled so that you can celebrate in-style versus sequestered inside your homes.
You must be so excited to begin the next phase of your medical training. For those of you who matched in Indianapolis residency programs, whether at IU School of Medicine, Ascension St. Vincent, Marian University or Community Health Network, we are personally thrilled for you. Many years ago my anesthesiologist husband AJ matched with IU School of Medicine (transitional year at St. Vincent) here in Indy, and I still remember how excited we were to be moving to Indianapolis!
Our real estate team has assisted many newly minted residents relocate to Indianapolis and find the perfect residency home. Our vast knowledge of Indianapolis as well as our background in the medical field (<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/agents/1135/amy-mcintyre/">Amy McIntyre</a>, our lead buyer’s specialist, was a nurse in her former career) enable us to guide residents to the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/indianapolis/communities/">neighborhoods and homes</a> that fit their special needs. (If you'll be new to the Indianapolis area, you might want to brush up on <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/speak-like-a-local/">Indy jargon</a> so you can speak like a local. And learn more about your new city in our <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/indianapolis/">Why Indianapolis section</a>.)
Our team is Indy’s leading real estate agent working with the physician and medical resident community! Led by REALTOR, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/our-team/meet-kristie-smith/">Kristie Smith</a>, she is married to a local physician and has helped over 100 medical residents move!
Our team's familiarity with Indianapolis and the popular resident-dominated neighborhoods ensures that you will live in the most desired areas – surrounded by many of your friends and peers.
Kristie’s relationships with Indianapolis’ top private bankers guarantees that you will work with professionals who are familiar with physician lending – and that you get the best rates.
As relocation director for Keller Williams Realty, Kristie and her team has moved over 1000 people to Indy. She even handles the relocations for several top Indinapolis companies – managing the relocation of their new employees and executives to Indianapolis.
Kristie is the REALTOR® most recommended by residency coordinators, physicians and past residents.
Our team has earned the 2009-2019 Super Service Award from Angie’s List (based on client feedback and reviews). Less than four percent of the companies on Angie’s List received the award!
Need to sell your current home? Kristie often has immediate buyers for residents who sell! By using Kristie to sell, you’ll have access to her large network of incoming buyers – an extra way to ensure that your home sells quickly!! Contact her for a listing consultation right away so that she can effectively market your home to her many clients.
Don’t wait! Visit our <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/property-search/search-form/">search page</a> to research homes currently on the market and to learn more about Indianapolis and relocation. The entire Indy Homes Real Estate Team looks forward to working with you!
If you’ve been matched to a program in another state, we can help you out, too. Let us refer you to a great resident-dominant REALTOR who specializes in residents and adheres to the same level of quality service that we do.
Let us know how we can help you. No question is too insignificant. Feel free to reach out to us at <a href="tel:(317)%20815-4450">(317) 313-3200</a> or send us a message via our <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/">contact form</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2020-03-22T19:28:00-07:002020-03-23T15:14:07-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:12022Rocky Mountain HighThere’s nothing like the power and beauty of nature to make you feel humbled and awe-struck. A recent trip to Colorado was the perfect reminder of this for me.
The weather in Denver was sunny and mild, and my husband AJ and I, along with our friend Jake Dreyfuss, visited <a href="https://www.redrocksonline.com/the-park/exercising-at-red-rocks" target="_blank">Red Rocks Amphitheatre</a>. Two-hundred million years in the making, the red rocks form an acoustically perfect, naturally formed <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/vail.jpg" width="465" height="465" alt="Vail, Colorado" title="Vail" style="float: right;" />amphitheater, and concerts have been held there since the early 1900s. The red rocks jutting into the sky are stunning, and at 6,400 feet, the air is thin. We took the opportunity at this lovely spot to do what so many athletes do—run the steps of the amphitheatre. It was tough, and my legs have never been so rubbery! But, WOW, what a workout!
We soon left for even higher altitudes and colder weather. <a href="https://www.vail.com/" target="_blank">Vail Ski Resort</a> is the largest ski mountain in Colorado, and as a skiing newbie, I was a little intimidated. And then Mother Nature unexpectedly walloped <a href="https://www.aspentimes.com/news/vails-lift-line-woes-continue-on-heels-of-historic-powder-conditions-over-weekend/" target="_blank">Vail with 38 inches of snow </a>over a 48-hour period—one of Vail’s top-five snowfalls ever! I’ve never seen so much snow! But I got to experience historic powder and somehow made it through three days of skiing with just a bruised wrist.
The snow that had been so perfect for skiing became scary for the trip down the mountain. Our rear-wheel vehicle was no match for the dangerous conditions and white-out snow, but we took it slowly and made it back to Denver safe and sound. Others weren’t as lucky. Sadly, two snowmobilers were killed in an avalanche near Vail just a week later. Nature can be terrible and beautiful and invigorating, and we saw it all during our short time in Colorado.
I’d love to hear from you—what have been your greatest experiences with nature? Comment below!2020-02-28T09:13:00-07:002020-03-28T12:14:00-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11967Where to live on Geist and own a boat dock<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/pontoon.jpg" width="709" height="449" alt="woman driving pontoon boat" style="float: left;" />
Hoosiers love their lakes, and Geist Reservoir is one of the largest and most prestigious lakes in Indiana to call home. Having direct water access offers direct access to fun, including boating, swimming and fishing! And <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/boat-dock-adds-home-value-geist-morse-reservoirs/">owning a boat dock adds to the value of your home</a> for a relatively small investment. Below, we've compiled a list of the neighborhoods in Geist that include properties with boat docks:
Neighborhoods with Boat Docks Within Hamilton Southeastern Schools Boundaries
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/ashford-pointe/">Ashford Pointe</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/breakwater/">Breakwater</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/bridgewater/">Bridgewater</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/canal-place/">Canal Place<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/forest-knoll/">Forest Knoll</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/geist-bay-estates/">Geist Bay Estates</a> <br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/intracoastal-at-geist/">Intracoastal<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/fishers/marina-village/">Marina Village<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/masthead/">Masthead<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/the-portage/">The Portage</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/the-anchorage/">The Anchorage</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/sail-place/">Sail Place</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/springs-of-cambridge/">Springs of Cambridge<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/tamenend/">Tamenend</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/valleys-at-geist/">Valleys at Geist<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/watersedge/">Watersedge</a>
Neighborhoods with Boat Docks Within Lawrence Township Schools Boundaries
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/admirals-bay/">Admirals Bay<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/admirals-pointe/">Admirals Pointe<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/admirals-sound/">Admirals Sound<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/admirals-woods/">Admirals Woods</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/back-bay/">Back Bay</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/diamond-pointe/">Diamond Pointe</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/feather-bay/">Feather Bay</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/feather-cove/">Feather Cove</a> <br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/masthead/">Masthead<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/lawrence-township/shorewalk/">Shorewalk<br /></a><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/treasure-pointe/">Treasure Pointe</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/windsong/">Windsong</a>
Neighborhoods with Boat Docks Within Mount Vernon Community School Corporation Boundaries
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/cardinal-woods/">Cardinal Woods</a><br /><a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/geist/hampton-cove/">Hampton Cove</a>
If you're looking for a home on Geist Reservoir with a boat dock, we'd love to show you your options. Call Indy Homes Team at <a href="tel:(317)%20815-4450" target="_blank">317-815-4450</a> or send an email to <a href="emailto:ksmith@indyhomes.com" target="_blank">ksmith@indyhomes.com</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2020-01-19T17:27:00-07:002020-01-19T20:14:31-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11936Farewell Fenix!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/fenix1.jpg" width="2048" height="1365" />
Have you ever felt like you don’t belong?
Back in middle school I remember not fitting in with the “cool” kids and feeling like an outsider—craving to fit in and be accepted. Ironically, I was seeking to fit in with those who I really didn’t have much in common with. I wasn’t “like them,” yet yearned to belong with those girls. At age 13, I’m sure it was just a desire to be popular. As an adult, however, I’ve realized what true friendship means, and I’ve had a variety of adult friendships that have been wonderful. Today I have a true tribe of amazing friends. When you meet the right people, those relationships are effortless and easy! As humans, we are naturally drawn to people we like and it’s awesome when relationships just “click.”
Fast forward to 2019, and I must chuckle at life and how it’s funny sometimes. Two years after building and moving into Fenix—our home I loved so much that was built with life energy post-fire—all 12,000 square feet of it—AJ and I now find ourselves living in a 1,600 square-foot apartment.<br /> <br />No, we didn’t have another fire or file for bankruptcy. Rather, in October we unexpectedly received an offer for our home and all its furnishings, and we decided to sell Fenix. Our house wasn’t on the market, per se, but we knew in our hearts that we wanted to move from our neighborhood. Sitting here in this Carmel apartment, we can’t help but breathe a sigh of relief. Because as beautiful as our home was, living there didn’t bring us as much joy as we had expected. In fact, quite the opposite was our experience.
Our purpose
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/Pool8.jpg" width="340" height="227" style="float: right;" />
AJ and I built our grand home with purpose—be generous, share Fenix with others, and make fun memories. We enjoyed using our home for good—raising money by holding modest fundraisers, supporting our favorite political candidates, and hosting fun gatherings that connect people. Now, these weren’t loud, all-night parties. In my opinion, we were low-key and respectful of our neighbors. We just love, love, loved sharing our home, having people over and creating experiences with others. Some of our greatest memories were the kids swimming in our pool on Sunday Fundays with smiles and laughter.<br /> <br />Unfortunately, it quickly became clear that our neighbors didn’t jibe with us and our hospitable nature. In fact, the majority of our 11 neighbors felt the exclusivity and privacy of the gated neighborhood were tarnished by our visitors and friends. It was like being 13 again—we didn’t belong. Once we were even asked for a guest list for one of our gatherings. We refused and the HOA would not open the gates for our visitors. HOA rule after rule was passed with the intention of deterring us from entertaining with ease in our own home. Street parking was disallowed 24-hours/day by any guest, and covenants were amended to disallow any kind of activity that was "altruistic, commercial, trade, educational or religious," Hosting my company Christmas party, conducting church small group, having non-family guests stay with us, or raising money for our favorite charity were all disallowed.
As time wore on, our days were filled with complaints and certified letters in our mailbox. We were deflated and burned with anger as a result of the bullying. They reported us to the City of Zionsville Zoning Department when we had our dear friends & Thailand missionaries living with us for a short time during their US furlough. And, they forced us into a mediation hearing because they didn't like me using my beautiful Fenix photos in Indy Homes online marketing -- they thought the neighborhood was "too exclusive" and it "impacted property values," if I used my own photos for marketing online. WHAT? We were continually jaw-dropped believing that it couldn't get any worse & that they couldn't top their irrationalities....
Until the last straw: we received a letter in September complaining about a few weeds in our mulch beds. Really? A few weeds? I couldn't find them. We even had a full-time landscaper & the nicest yard in the neighborhood. It was so clear that we didn’t belong in this neighborhood. So, when our buyer and his offer came along, we were ready to pack our few belongings and get out. I wasn’t emotionally ready to leave Fenix -- trust me, many tears were shed with AJ -- but we were mentally ready to be gone from a place where we didn't fit in with the elitest, mean culture where it was clear we weren’t welcomed.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/fenix_greatrm.jpg" width="212" height="318" style="float: right;" />
Life is too short
Life is too short to live in an environment with people intent on destroying your happiness. This experience has forced us to think about what it REALLY means to be happy, be neighborly and live in abundance. We’ll be pondering that question long and hard before we make our next move. Perhaps the fire and all that came after it is the universe’s way of telling us that we should simplify our lives. What do we really need to be happy? Heck, right now we don't even own a couch since our buyer also bought all of our furnishings.
This is the first time we’ve lived in an apartment in more than 20 years. It’s certainly been an adjustment. This foodie misses my kitchen the most. And gas cooking! I’m using one of those apartment stoves with the electric coils!<br /> <br />Where in your life have you not belonged? And, have you ever made a major life 180 in the pursuit of contentment, fulfillment and happiness? I’d love to hear about it! Email me at <a href="mailto:ksmith@indyhomes.com">ksmith@IndyHomes.com</a> or leave a comment below!
p.s. Fenix was the highest priced home sale in Zionsville or Carmel in 13 years. I guess part of me can smile about that!
Here's a photo on our last day at Fenix.--ready for our next chapter. The top photo was when we first move into Fenix -- full of optimism, hope & the possibilities of how we would use our home to love & give back to others.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/fenix2.jpg" width="1146" height="1310" />
2019-12-13T10:24:00-07:002020-01-29T18:21:06-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11886Hail to the latte!
Today is a big day for me, as I am teaching a webinar about our concierge program to hundreds of agents across the country -- how we transform homes efficiently to net sellers top dollar and sell quickly!
To fuel up I’m making a quick pit stop at Starbucks to grab a nonfat latte. It’s my secret to a more productive day!
What's your energy secret?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-10-16T04:10:00-07:002019-10-27T10:26:22-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11885Lessons from author John Green<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/kristie_and_aj_with_sophie_weeter_2.jpg" width="400" height="472" alt="Kristie and AJ Smith with Sophie Weeter" style="float: right; margin: 7px;" />
Recently, my husband AJ and I got to witness some talented Indianapolis high school students act out a story based in Indianapolis and written by an Indianapolis author.<br /><br />Maybe you’ve already guessed, but the play was <a href="https://brebeuf.org/campus-life/fault/" target="_blank">“The Fault in Our Stars,”</a> based on the best-selling young adult novel by <a href="http://www.johngreenbooks.com" target="_blank">John Green</a>. The film adaptation, released in 2014, was also wildly popular and critically acclaimed. In case you’re not familiar with the story, it deals with two cancer-stricken teens who fall in love with each other after meeting at a cancer support group. With permission from Green, <a href="https://brebeuf.org/" target="_blank">Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School</a>’s theater students adapted the play from the novel last year and produced it this past fall. Brebeuf’s production marked the first time the stage version of the novel was performed, and I was thrilled to witness it in support of my neighbor, senior Sophie Weeter, who played Hazel’s mom. (Such a talented young lady—she just got accepted to Cornell as a direct admit for soccer.)<br /><br />Beyond the play, which was incredibly well done (kudos to the students and Tobin Strader, Brebeuf’s theater director), I was impressed with a story Sophie told me about the generosity of John Green. Despite being a best-selling author with a jumble of side pursuits, he took the time to write a lovely letter of encouragement to the students as they worked on the play. Even more, Green surprised them by showing up for the play’s dress rehearsal. I can’t imagine how proud the students must have felt performing for him. I’m sure it’s a moment that will forever be etched in their memories.<br /><br />John Green didn’t have to go to these lengths. He’s busy, he’s important, he’s made it. But his thoughtful actions are a good reminder for us all to be kind, stay humble, and engage with those in your community. You get out of life what you put into it.
I’d love to hear from you—who do you consider a role model of humility and generosity, and why? Post your thoughts in the comment section below!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-10-15T08:40:00-07:002019-12-13T12:25:09-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:9976Looking for things to do in Indianapolis? Check our list of October festivalsLooking for things to do in Indianapolis? Well, never fear! October brings with it a diverse array of fun and festivals, whether you are into history, art, culture or just food and drink!
Watch for an upcoming blog that details fun Indianapolis Halloween events and activities for the young and old!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/pumpkins-and-mums.jpg" width="600" height="399" alt="Pumpkins and mums make a lovely autumn focal point." style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Conner Prairie Corn Maze – Now through Oct. 27
Rated one of the top 10 corn mazes in the U.S.! This family friendly attraction will have you adventuring your way through corn-lined trails that twist, turn and dead-end. The maze features three paths - a small maze for younger guests, a long maze for teens and adults, and the ever popular Headless Hollow Spooky Maze (for ages 12+) ready made with lots of tricks and surprises.
More info: <a href="https://www.connerprairie.org/explore/things-to-do/corn-maze/" target="_blank">connerprairie.org</a>
Harvest at Newfields – Oct. 3-6
Celebrate 50 acres of fall featuring endless pumpkins, an engaging hay maze, and vibrant fall foliage set within Newfield's Garden. The celebration will feature tastings from local and regional chefs and vendors, hands-on demonstrations and workshops, and a chance to interact with farmers, brewers, and distillers. Families can enjoy spectacular seasonal horticulture displays, pumpkin painting and art making activities.
More info: <a href="https://discovernewfields.org/" target="_blank">discovernewfields.org</a>
Sunshine Music Festival - Oct. 5
Breathe in the sunshine and live music in Whitestown! Enjoy specialty foods and great beers. Entertain the kids with their own family fun area! All proceeds will benefit neighbors with intellectual disabilities.
More info: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/whitestown-municipal-complex/sunshine-music-festival-benefiting-sunshine-social-club/307116843499705/" target="_blank">facebook.com</a>
Indiana Renaissance Faire – Oct. 5-6
Picture it—more than 250 costumed characters, jousting knights, juggling, acrobats, swordplay and period music. (Sounds a little like “Game of Thrones.” But sorry, no dragons.) The 15th annual Indiana Renaissance Faire also features merchants, food vendors, and free kids’ games, as well as a sing-along at the end of the day. Those 21 and over are welcome to enjoy beer and mead at the fair’s tavern.
More info: <a href="http://indianarenfaire.com" target="_blank">indianarenfaire.com</a>
Riley Festival – Oct. 3-6
With one of the largest annual festivals in the state of Indiana, the proud residents of Greenfield celebrate the birth of their favorite son, Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley. Riley’s poem “The Ole Swimmin' Hole” provides the theme for this year’s festivities, now in their 50th year. In addition to the Parade of Flowers, in which school children march through downtown Greenfield to place bouquets of flowers around Riley’s statue, enjoy entertainment, crafts, food, flea market booths and much more!
More info: <a href="http://rileyfestival.com/" target="_blank">rileyfestival.com</a>
Heartland International Film Festival – Oct. 10-20
Celebrating its 28th year, the Heartland International Film Festival showcases more than 100 movies from independent filmmakers over 11 days of red carpet premieres and events, parties and film screenings across Indianapolis.
More info: <a href="https://heartlandfilm.org/festival/" target="_blank">heartlandfilm.org</a>
Broad Ripple Beer Fest – Oct. 12
Join the nonprofit Brewers of Indiana Guild for its third annual fall fundraiser at Optimist Park to sample from hundreds of beers brewed by 40+ Hoosier breweries and guests while trick-or-treating and enjoying local food, shopping, games, and more.
More info: <a href="https://drinkin.beer/broad-ripple-beer-fest/" target="_blank">drinkin.beer</a>
Monument Circle Art Fair – Oct. 12
With the stunning Soldiers and Sailors Monument as the backdrop, more than 80 regional artists situated around Monument Circle showcase and sell their work. Enjoy food truck fare and musical entertainment, too. Admission is free!
More info: <a href="https://www.monumentcircleart.org/" target="_blank">monumentcircleart.com</a>
GermanFest – Oct. 12
German-American Day is October 6, and the GermanFest at the Athenaeum provides the perfect way to celebrate! The day includes wiener dog races, a 5K run and walk, a strong man/woman competition, and plenty of fun activities for the kiddos. German beer and food and pleny of music round out the day! All proceeds benefit the maintenance and care of the Historic Athenaeum.
More info: <a href="http://www.athenaeumfoundation.org/?event=germanfest-2-2" target="_blank">athenaeumfoundation.org</a>
Scottish Highland Games and Festival – Oct. 12
Don your plaid, gather your clan and venture to German Park to watch kilted amateur athletes take on feats of strength, including a hammer toss, caber toss and weight throw. Of course, no Scottish event would be complete without bagpipes—enjoy the marching bagpipers, as well as dancing, food and entertainment.
More info: <a href="http://indyscotgamesandfest.com/" target="_blank">indyscotgamesandfest.com</a>
Bard Fest 2019 – Oct. 17-27
Indy's Shakespeare festival returns celebrating its 5th year! IndyFringe's Bard Fest 2019 features all-new productions of Hamlet, Henry IV, Two Gentlemen of Verona, and The Tempest. Bard Fest bridges the gap between our city and the Bard with professional-quality, actor-focused, accessible Shakespeare.
More info: <a href="https://www.indybardfest.com/2019-festival-schedule" target="_blank">indybardfest.com</a>
ArtsPark Fall Festival – Oct. 19
Celebrate fall at the Indianapolis Arts Center with crisp ciders, pumpkin decorating, the Annual Faculty Show Exhibition Series, and more! Experience all your favorite fall activities with the entire family!
More info: <a href="https://www.indplsartcenter.org/fallfest" target="_blank">indplsartcenter.org</a>
Zionsville Lions Park Pumpkins & Hayrides – Oct. 27
Pumpkins & Hayrides is a free event as a thank you to the patrons of Zionsville Lions Park. Enjoy pumpkin painting, hayrides, bounce houses, games, food, and more! Kids can participate in a costume contest as well!
More info: <a href="http://zionsvillelions.com/events/pumpkins-hayrides" target="_blank">zionsvillelions.com</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-09-29T18:00:00-07:002019-09-29T19:06:49-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11854Weekend getaway: Finding tranquility at the lake<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/fall-lakehouse.jpg" width="713" height="447" alt="autumn at the lake" />
Summer is always busy for me, and with the real estate market still going gangbusters in Indianapolis, this past season was no exception. It seemed that my phone was always ringing, pinging or beeping. Such is the life of a REALTOR.
But when a good friend invited me to her family’s lake cottage at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cordry_Sweetwater_Lakes,_Indiana" target="_blank">Sweetwater Lake</a> for a recent weekend, I decided to take the opportunity to shut off my phone for a couple of days and to be totally present with my friends and their kids. We arrived Friday evening, and in the morning, I woke to the tranquility of the calm lake, listening to the sound of the gently lapping water. We enjoyed cooking breakfast, while chatting and watching the kids—three girls and three boys—go about their fun. Their delight in being at the lake was contagious! Later in the day, we boated and basked in the sun, and topped off the day by making s’mores at the firepit.
As I watched the sun set behind brilliant pink and orange clouds that evening, a sense of contentment and peace came over me. The entire weekend was a reminder that the simplest pleasures are the ones that mean the most, and that we all need to take time to connect with others despite the craziness of our day-to-day lives.
So, what do you consider life’s simple pleasures? How do you get back to what’s truly important to you? I’d love to know—share in the comments below.
By the way, if you’re interested in finding a tranquil lake house—anything from a cozy cottage to an executive retreat—at one of Indiana’s dozens of lakes, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/contact/">give me a call or drop me a line</a>! (And yes, I know we're heading into fall, but it's never to early to plan!) I can help in the immediate Indianapolis area, or refer you to a great REALTOR in another part of the state who will serve you with the same level of service that my team and I would.
View Indianapolis-area waterfront homes:
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=8420851">Geist Reservoir waterfront homes</a>
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/pike-township/pike-township-waterfront/">Eagle Creek Reservoir waterfront homes</a>
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/noblesville/morse-reservoir-waterfront-homes/">Morse Reservoir waterfront homes</a>
More tips on buying a waterfront home:
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/boat-dock-adds-home-value-geist-morse-reservoirs/">Boat dock adds to home value at Geist and Morse reservoirs</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-09-23T13:04:00-07:002019-09-23T14:35:17-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11762Hot new Carmel restaurants! Fork + Ale House <br /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/carmel_restaurant_blog_fork_and_ale_front.jpg" width="440" height="330" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" alt="Fork + Ale House in Carmel, Indiana" />
Fork plus ale is too simple of an equation to capture the complexity of this sports bar, plus brewery, plus food-fresh dining experience.
Located on the Monon in the prime spot next to Sun King Spirits in the heart of Carmel, Fork + Ale House has open access to the ping-pong tables, wobbly around-the-world chairs (you’ll know what I mean when you try them out), and fire pit located in its courtyard.
You'll want to go here to try some original brews or to sit down for a traditional restaurant experience. Fork + Ale's kitchen-fresh food competes with Sun King Spirits', which offers only order and pick-up stations. The company is proud of its smoked meats, homemade pizza dough, and recipes that have been passed down for generations. Stop by on your bike ride down the Monon Greenway!
Located: 50 Veterans Way, Suite #150, Carmel<br /><a href="https://forkalehouse.com/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/convivio_photo.jpg" width="280" height="420" style="margin: 6px; float: right;" alt="Pasta at Convivio in Carmel, Indiana" />
Convivio <br />
Has great Italian food ever gone out of style? I didn’t think so. Italian cuisine speaks of romance, indulgence, and old-country nostalgia for those of us who have inherited some Sicilian and Italian genes. And even if you’re 100% not Italian and just a huge fan of Tony Soprano and The Godfather, dining on fried risotto, beef-pork meatballs and calamari might still feel like home.
If you want to experience Italy without paying to fly across the ocean to taste genuine Italian food, Convivio is the place to go.
Located: 11529 Spring Mill Rd., Suite #300, Carmel<br /><a href="https://www.convivioindy.com/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
3UP
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/3up_cocktail_bar.jpg" width="281" height="420" style="margin: 6px; float: left;" alt="Drinks at 3Up in Carmel, Indiana" />
People like living and working in high places, so why not drink there too? To access this bar, enter through a side door beside Anthony’s Chophouse and take the elevator up (to the third floor, if that wasn’t obvious). There you will find the swanky rooftop bar, 3UP. There is a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces, with big doors leading out to a spacious patio. People lounge around glass-plated firepits, cupping artisanal cocktails with names like “Rooftop Roundabout” and “Carmel Cosmo.” A large trellis with colorful plants and flowers lends a hand to the feeling of privacy and coziness of this speak-easy-type atmosphere.
It isn’t only the swanky décor that makes one feel transported to New York City, it’s the people this bar attracts as well. There is the sense that work associates turn quickly from business to pleasure—influenced by sugary spirits and hush-hush gossip. If you’re looking for a place to go with a new friend after work, or want to take your partner to an upscale joint, 3UP is the place for you.
Located: 201 W. Main St. , Carmel<br /><a href="https://3uprooftop.com/" target="_blank">Details>><br /></a>
The Cake Bake Shop
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/fixed_cake_bake_enterence_photo.jpg" width="350" height="350" style="margin: 6px; float: left;" alt="Cake Bake Shop in Carmel, Indiana" />
Carmel's new Cake Bake Shop opened on July 1 on the cul-de-sac of Carmel City Center. The new shop provides an additional eating option in the shopping district, alongside Matt the Miller’s Tavern, divvy, Eggshell Bistro and Hubbard and Cravens. This second location of the Indianapolis Cake Bake Shop reaches new heights in both size and menu. In comparison to Broad Ripple’s 36 seats, the Carmel location boasts 154 seats, and has a full bar in combination with the restaurant and bakery. Cake Bake has been featured in Williams-Sonoma, Oprah Winfrey's famous 'O' List in the 2018 issue of O magazine, and has received shout-outs from Oscar-winning actor Allison Janney...and more.<br /><br />Cake Bake's daily menu is available online... but here's a taster of their summer cakes: Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cake, Gwendolyn’s Famous Earl’s Court Chocolate Cake, Lemon Blueberry Cake, Oprah's O List Mint Chocolate Chip Cake. You're welcome.
Located: 800 S. Rangeline Rd., Suite #220 , Carmel<br /><a href="https://thecakebakeshop.com/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Get ready! This hot spot is COMING SOON...
Juniper on Main
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/jun_on_main_crop.jpg" width="340" height="338" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" alt="Juniper on Main in Carmel, Indiana" />
If you’ve ever been to Georgia or the Carolinas, you’re going to feel a wave of nostalgia upon entering Juniper on Main. <br /><br />Its featured food is “Southern Coastal,” and might have the power to transport you to the salty shores of the Atlantic Ocean. This outdoor-oriented restaurant boasts a large seating area sprawled beneath a pergola, Charleston style. Its advertised dishes are Lowcountry Boil, Pecan Crusted Catfish and Local Stout Glazed Short Ribs. Juniper on Main sits at the end of Main Street in the Carmel Arts & Design district, and is set to “open soon.”
Located: 110 E. Main St. , Carmel <br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Juniper-on-Main-646714349063100/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Tell me! What are your favorite can't-live-without Carmel restaurants? Comment below!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-07-17T10:22:00-07:002019-08-25T14:42:59-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11053Dance the night away at the Zionsville Street Dance!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/zionsville_street_dance_logo.jpg" width="715" height="357" alt="Zionsville Street Dance logo" />
Looking for a family-friendly activity, or a great date idea? One of our favorite Zionsville summer fun events is coming up on Saturday, August 3—the Zionsville Street Dance.
Let’s be honest, it’s hard to find a live music venue where people are actually dancing. But the Zionsville annual Street Dance doesn’t dance-shame!<br /><br /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/Zionsville_Street_Dance_instagram_and_blog_photo.png" width="422" height="422" style="float: right; margin: 6px;" alt="2019 Zionsville Street Dance" />During this summer fun family affair, everyone is encouraged to kick off their Sunday shoes, and cut loose--FOOTLOOSE! (Remember that part where Kevin Bacon flips around a warehouse in the tightest jeans known to man? What was the '80s?)
Here’s what you need to know about the Zionsville Street Dance:
This is the biggest Zionsville Chamber of Commerce fundraising event, which means that if you come—you are literally giving back to your community. Who knew dancing could be such a good deed?
The dance begins at 6 p.m. on Zionsville's Main Street, and the music will play until 11 p.m.
Presale tickets are $13, tickets at the door are $18. Children 10 and under are $5. A family pack (four to six family members) is $45 presale, $50 at the door—note that your family must arrive together.
If you don’t want to pay the online presale ticket convenience fee, tickets can be purchased in person at Akard True Value Hardware, Cobblestone or the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce.
The Endless Summer Band (ESB) will provide the musical entertainment this year!
The Indy Homes Team is thrilled to be one of the corporate sponsors this year!
This is a beer fest, food fest, and street festival combined.
This festival is great for first dates, couples, family fun, Bumble meet-ups--everyone!
THERE WILL BE 7,000 PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE. With that said, this is what you should and shouldn’t bring:
Should bring:
Your pre-sale purchased tickets—<a href="https://www.zionsvillechamber.org/street-dance.html" target="_blank">purchasable here</a>—You won’t have to wait in the long lines for tickets (and it’s cheaper).
Your ID – Doesn’t matter if you have white hair or three generations of children in attendance with you, IDs will be requested if you want to drink.
Cash—Food and beer lines move a lot faster with cash.
Dancing shoes—You will literally be dancing in the street, so be mindful of your toes. With that said, if you can whip out moves in stilettos or flip flops, go for it! The “Endless Summer Band” (ESB) will be playing, so you’re going to want to dance!
A large appetite—You don’t want to miss out on the amazing food vendors because you decided to heat up your Thursday night leftovers!
Shouldn't bring:
Your dog (or cat?)—7,000 people means that there will be a lot of noise, movement, and might result in your dog consuming a child’s ice cream right out of their hands while you’re turned away. Keep that in mind before tugging your pup along with you. Also, who is going to hold Spot while you’re dancing?
Outside adult beverages—(But you knew that already, right?)
This is about YOU. And your dance moves. We hope to see you all there!
<a href="https://www.zionsvillechamber.org/street-dance.html" target="_blank">Purchase presale tickets here >></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-07-11T06:00:00-07:002022-10-04T06:46:26-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11020Round out your summer with Indy's August festivals, events and fun<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/state_fair.jpg" width="715" height="400" alt="state fair ferris wheel" />
We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but summer will be over before we know it. (Sorry!) Be sure to round out the summer of 2019 with some of the season’s hottest events and festivals, including the Indiana State Fair, IndyFringe Festival, Gen Con, Devour Indy, and Indy Comic-Con. (Check out the other fun things in our list of August events below, too.) You’ll be glad you did.
June 7 - Aug. 30: Summer Nights Film Series
The National Bank of Indianapolis presents the Summer Nights Film Series, and it's as romantic as it sounds. On an enormous screen, movies are projected for the audience's delight. Feel free to lay back on a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy classic movies. Concessions are available, and feel free to bring your own picnic if you like! Check out this year's schedule! <a href="https://discovernewfields.org/summer-nights-2019" target="_blank">Details >> </a>
Aug. 1 - 4: Gen Con<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/indy_gen_con.png" width="203" height="125" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" />
Truly the best four days in gaming, right here in Indy! Gen Con is the largest consumer hobby, fantasy, science fiction, and adventure game convention in North America. With 500 exhibiting game companies, award-winning authors and artists, vibrant costumes, family entertainment, food trucks, a beer garden, and hundreds of exciting new games, there’s something for everyone. <a href="https://www.gencon.com/" target="_blank">Details >> <br /></a>
Aug. 2: Hello from the Magic Tavern
Held at the Schrott Center for the Arts at Butler University, “Hello from the Magic Tavern” is an improvised narrative podcast. It documents the life of fictional character Arnie, who has fallen through a magical portal behind a Burger King in Chicago and into the mysterious and magical land of Foon. The show is framed as a casual podcast, in which Arnie interviews strange creatures he encounters in the land of Foon. <a href="https://butlerartscenter.org/event/hello-magic-tavern" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Aug. 2 - 18: Indiana State Fair<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/indiana_state_fair_2019.png" width="218" height="239" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" />
The animals, the food, the rides, the concerts! There’s so much to see and do at the Indiana State Fair. Check out the State Fair's new exhibit: "Heros in the Heartland," where local heros showcase their real-world super-hero qualities. Returning for 2019, the Indiana State Fair introduces a single-ring, world-class circus, showcasing a variety of famous performers, including daredevil Bello Nock, Arabian horses and muscle men!<a href="https://www.indianastatefair.com/state-fair/" target="_blank"> Details >></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/zville_street_dance_2.jpg" width="250" height="125" alt="Zionsville Street Dance logo" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" />Aug. 3: Zionsville Street Dance
Dance the night away at the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/blog/dance-the-night-away-at-the-zionsville-street-dance-2019/">Zionsville Street Dance</a>, <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/zionsville/">Zionsville</a>'s largest party of the year. This family-friendly event features live music, local restaurants, food trucks, beer garden, kids' area and much more! $13 for presale, $18 at the door! <a href="https://www.zionsvillechamber.org/street-dance.html" target="_blank">Details >><br /></a>
Aug. 3: Harry Potter Day<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/harry_potter_day.jpg" width="320" height="99" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" />
The Indianapolis Art Center transforms itself into the wizarding world of Harry Potter for a special day of Harry Potter-themed crafts, festivities, and more! Dress up to participate in the costume contest, scavenge for treasure in the Forbidden Forest, glug down a vial of Polyjuice potion, all in service of keeping the fantasy world of Hogwarts alive! All houses (Slytherin included) are very welcome. Make sure to register for the special “Make It Take It” offerings. <a href="https://www.indplsartcenter.org/harrypotter?utm_source=Indianapolis+Art+Center+Newsletter&utm_campaign=33bef7446e-Summer+Guide_06-24-19&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_40e6af7fea-33bef7446e-710592061&mc_cid=33bef7446e&mc_eid=0da241161c" target="_blank">Details>><br /></a>
Aug. 3: Indianapolis Water Lantern Festival
This unique water lantern festival will be held in downtown Indy. Enjoy an exciting day complete with music, food vendors, yard pong and corn hole. As day turns to dusk, sit by fire pits while writing messages to send off in your water lanterns. As night falls, be prepared to send off your message with hundreds of other lanterns, and enjoy the beautiful sight of lights floating across the water. Buy your tickets now! <a href="https://www.lightthenightevents.com/events/water-lantern-festival-indianapolis-2019/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Aug. 3: 24th Annual Brew HaHa
This year the annual craft beer festival will be celebrated at White River State Park. This party will take place from 4-9 p.m., and will include entertainment from local comics and bands, great food from vendors, and of course, 3 oz. pours of Indy’s amazing craft beer. Buy your tickets now! <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=769c418ac5c1e5b9505c3edf4eda9f13&t=tix&vqitq=689a8a28-65e8-4eff-9576-9e8db422b7a4&vqitp=c549e729-999b-45a8-89c7-1c96c6944798&vqitts=1556908207&vqitc=vendini&vqite=itl&vqitrt=Safetynet&vqith=4606606a4ee89d235b73653aa9522ee9" target="_blank">Details>></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/colts_logo.png" width="175" height="132" alt="Indianapolis Colts logo" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" />Aug. 4: Colts Training Camp Fan Appreciation Day
Get ready for another Indianapolis Colts football season with a visit to the team’s training camp in <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/westfield/">Westfield</a> during Fan Appreciation Day. Local nonprofits and players’ causes will be highlighted and celebrated! <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/2019/6/20/18692190/colts-release-2019-training-camp-schedule" target="_blank">Details >></a>
Aug. 10: Drum Corps International World Championship Finals
A week-long competition of the very best in the world of marching music culminates on Saturday, Aug. 10 with the crowning of the marching band champion. Watch at Lucas Oil Stadium as brass musicians, percussionists and dance performers compete at the highest levels of musical and performance excellence. <a href="https://www.dci.org/events/2019-dci-world-championship-finals" target="_blank">Details >></a>
Aug. 8 - 11: Broad Ripple Carnival<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/broad_ripple_carnival_2019.png" width="155" height="155" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" />
Celebrate <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/broad-ripple/">Broad Ripple Village</a> and Broad Ripple Park with a four-day festival featuring carnival rides and games, food and drink, a craft beer garden, live entertainment and community booths. A history exhibit will be displayed, and Saturday’s highlight includes an artisan and vintage market. Free admission. <a href="https://broadrippleindy.org/event/broad-ripple-carnival/" target="_blank">Details >></a>
Aug. 10: Indy Quest Urban Adventure
Like TV’s “The Amazing Race”? Then you’ll love Indy Quest! Grab your friends, relatives or coworkers and trek, ride and paddle through the city streets, creeks and neighborhoods of Indianapolis. Along the way, you will encounter a number of unique and demanding obstacles and tests that will challenge your physical and mental skills. <a href="https://www.indyquestar.com/" target="_blank">Details >></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/creekfest.jpg" width="200" height="123" alt="Zionsville Creekfest logo" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" />Aug. 10: Zionsville Creekfest
What started as a cleanup of Eagle Creek has become a full-blown annual festival celebrating Eagle Creek and our precious water resources. Register to help with the cleanup and come out for other fun activities, including a creek stomp for kids, kayak demonstrations, the Department of Natural Resources’ casting station, live music and much more!<a href="https://www.zionsville-in.gov/481/Creekfest" target="_blank"> Details >></a>
Aug. 15 - 25: IndyFringe Festival
One of Indy’s biggest theater events returns to <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/downtown/mass-avechatham-arch/">Mass Ave</a> and the surrounding area for 10 days in mid-August. IndyFringe showcases traditional and nontraditional theatre, dance, music, improvisation and a wide range of other performance and visual arts, performed and created by local, national and international artists. <a href="http://www.indyfringe.org/indyfringe-festival-15th-annual" target="_blank">Details >> </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/devour_Indy_blog.jpg" width="200" height="96" alt="Devour Indy logo" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" />Aug. 19 - Sept. 1: Devour Indy
Devour Indy happens only twice a year, so you won’t want to miss out on this summertime opportunity to experience amazing three-course, value-priced menus at restaurants throughout the city!<a href="https://www.devourindy.com/" target="_blank"> Details >></a>
Aug. 23 - 25: Indianapolis Greekfest
Taking place on the grounds of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/">Carmel</a>, the family-friendly Indianapolis Greekfest celebrates the Greek Orthodox faith and Hellenic culture with authentic Greek foods, traditional dancing and live music. <a href="https://indygreekfest.org/" target="_blank">Details >> </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/colts_logo.png" width="175" height="132" alt="Indianapolis Colts logo" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" />Aug. 24: Colts 5K Walk/Run
This isn’t your typical 5K. Participants start off outside of Lucas Oil Stadium, and then experience the thrill of NFL football by finishing at the 50-yard line inside the stadium! In addition to an exclusive Colts 5K T-shirt and commemorative medal, all participants will receive a Colts preseason game ticket! <a href="https://www.colts.com/events/5k" target="_blank">Details >> </a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/arts_district_logo-139x121.jpg" width="139" height="121" alt="Carmel Arts & Design District logo" style="float: right;" />Aug. 24: Artomobilia
Experience car design as art in the <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/">Carmel</a> Arts & Design District. More than 400 enthusiast and collector automobiles line the streets while nearby galleries exhibit art with an auto theme. <a href="https://www.artomobiliaweekend.com/accouncements/2019/3/2/join-us-for-artomobilia-saturday-august-24th" target="_blank">Details >><br /></a>
Aug. 30 - Aug. 31: Fishers Blues Fest
Bring your picnic, blankets and friends to this special Labor Day weekend event in <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/fishers/">Fishers</a>! Local and national blues artists will provide the entertainment for this end-of-summer relaxing affair. Beer will be available from Four Day Ray, and multiple food vendors will be on hand to feed the hungry masses. <a href="http://www.npdamp.com/157/Blues-Fest" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Aug. 30 - Sept.1: Indiana Comic-Con
Experience comic book culture with thousands of fans from around the state and region. Meet creators, actors, and experts, and mingle with fellow fans. This year's special guests include Kate Beckinsale, Ron Perlman, Creed Bratton, and more! <a href="https://indianacomicconvention.com/" target="_blank">Details >></a>
What is your can't-miss event this August? Share in the comments below!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-07-09T10:37:00-07:002019-08-25T15:11:32-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11770Now open: Carmel's Cake Bake Shop<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/women_walking_past_cake_bake.jpg" width="619" height="558" alt="Cake Bake's new location in Carmel City Center" style="display: block; margin: 7px auto;" />Think: Parisian mornings and storybook castles; shooting stars and royal weddings. These fantasies lie at the heart of Gwendolyn Roger’s new location of the Cake Bake Shop in Carmel City Center. The restaurant inspires whimsy long before the first bite of cake. In a display case outside, guests are greeted by a life-size unicorn and a <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/fixed_porch_swing_cake_bake.jpg" width="353" height="353" style="float: right; margin: 7px;" alt="Carmel's Cake Bake Shop" />rotating crystal air balloon. Beside the display is a beckoning porch swing that serves as the perfect respite after a rich slice of chocolate ganache cake on a hot summer night.
<a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/carmel/">Carmel</a>'s new Cake Bake opened on July 1st on the cul-de-sac of Carmel City Center. The new shop provides an additional eating option in the shopping district, alongside Matt the Miller’s Tavern, divvy, Eggshell Bistro and Hubbard and Cravens. This second location of the Indianapolis-based Cake Bake Shop reaches new heights in both size and menu. In comparison to <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/broad-ripple/">Broad Ripple</a>’s 36 seats, the Carmel location boasts 154 seats, and has a full bar in combination with the restaurant and bakery. It will also be offering tasty brunch treats.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/fixed_cake_bake_carmel_blog_unicorn.jpg" width="548" height="475" style="margin: 7px auto; display: block;" alt="Exterior of Carmel's Cake Bake Shop" /><br />Once inside, pink rose garlands hang from exposed white beams, glittering alongside Swarovski crystal chandeliers in the Parisian-inspired bakery. Carmel's Cake Bake employees, impeccably dressed in white and pink tailored uniforms, hold titles such as, “Magical Experience Creator” and “Fairytale Wedding Cake Designer." These job titles appear well earned—from the quality design of each three-tiered cake to the thoughtfully placed candelabrums, bouquets and shiny sparkly somethings, it is the harmonious combination of detail that creates the sweeping, romantic dining experience.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/fixed_cake_bake_carmel_blog.jpg" width="360" height="360" style="float: right; margin: 7px;" alt="Rose garlands inside Carmel's Cake Bake Shop" />If you're feeling something savory
The decadent cuisine doesn't disappoint. James Beard Foundation award winner Dan Nichols runs the kitchen. When you find yourself floating after tasting the Filet au Poivre, you will understand the nature of his genius.
Cocktails fit for a queen
There are drinks, too, fit to shake Sleeping Beauty from her slumber. Enter into your awareness, "The Magic Delphinium." The menu describes it best: “Delicate and bright notes of lavender flower and lemon perfectly balanced by Brut Champagne and a magic show at your table.” I mean...
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/fixed_cake_bake_.jpg" width="373" height="373" style="float: left; margin: 7px;" alt="Exterior detail of Carmel's Cake Bake Shop" />Don't forget the cake
The phrase, “let them eat cake,” is taken quite seriously here. Marie Antoinette might argue that Gwendolyn Roger’s vision—to democratize French-inspired delicacies such as silk chocolate cream pie and thick slices of raspberry Champagne cake—was the true intent behind her words. <br /><br />Cake Bake has been featured in Williams-Sonoma, Oprah Winfrey's famous 'O' List in the 2018 issue of O magazine, and has received shout-outs from Oscar-winning actor Allison Janney...and more.<br /><br />Cake Bake's daily menu is available online...but here's a taster of their summer cakes: Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cake, Gwendolyn’s Famous Earl’s Court Chocolate Cake, Lemon Blueberry Cake, Oprah's O List Mint Chocolate Chip Cake, and many more...
Check out everything Cake Bake <a href="https://thecakebakeshop.com/" target="_blank">here,</a> or stop by the Cake Bake Carmel location and see for yourself! <a href="https://thecakebakeshop.com/" target="_blank"><br /></a>
We would love to know about your experience at Carmel's new Cake Bake! Leave us a comment below!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-07-08T05:18:00-07:002019-08-25T15:33:49-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:11729One-tank getaway: The Doghouse Hotel and BreweryWelcome to the world's first brewery hotel, located right outside of Columbus, Ohio.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_photo_brewdog.png" width="355" height="355" style="float: left; margin: 7px;" alt="Happy beer lovers toasting each other" />Dubbed the "hoppiest place on earth," <a href="https://www.brewdog.com/locations/hotels/doghouse" target="_blank">Doghouse Hotel and Brewery</a> boasts 32 beer-themed rooms on its 42-acre complex. Indulge the ultimate beer-lovers dream: sleep over at the brewery!
Wake up and order a flight of BrewDog's classics, venture out to the shipping container-turned-bar, tour the beer museum, play giant Connect 4 and Guardians of the Galaxy themed pinball and more!<br /><br />This hotel doesn't offer only fun, it offers luxury. With locally made craft beer soaps, shampoos, and conditioners, turn your daily shower into a spa experience with a refreshing twist. Each room comes with its own shower beer fridge! Grab a cold one to savor while being drenched by a steamy rain-fall shower head. The complex also offers live music, a dog park, a full kitchen with tasty food, and a whole crew of craft beer connoisseurs who share your love for good beer. <a href="https://www.brewdog.com/locations/hotels/doghouse" target="_blank"><br /></a>
A little about BrewDog
<a href="https://www.brewdog.com/locations/hotels/doghouse" target="_blank" style="color: #990000;"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/beer.jpg" width="396" height="263" style="margin: 7px; float: right;" alt="Two beers on a bar" /></a>
You're likely familiar with BrewDog's famously great beer, which has been tapped in bars and pubs in Indianapolis since 2018. It has a wide range of specialties, from lagers to sours. Its flagship beer is the Punk IPA. <br /><br />BrewDog's began in northeast Scotland in 2007, with a mission to revolutionize craft beer culture and to infuse the world with its passion and knowledge about beer. This company is revolutionary in other ways, too. With full-scale paternity and maternity leave for its employees, the company also offers a paid week of "paw-ternity" leave for new dog owners. <a href="https://www.brewdog.com/" target="_blank">Learn more about BrewDog's punk-rock mission and revolutionary impact on craft beer in the UK. </a>
BrewDog's second U.S. bar set to open in Fountain Square
BrewDog will soon open a taproom in <a href="https://www.indyhomes.com/downtown/fountain-square/">Fountain Square</a>! This will be BrewDog's 2nd U.S. bar outside of Ohio. According to IndyStar, its new taproom will have 24 beers on tap, a large outdoor patio, and upscale bar food. This new venue is expected to open in September 2019. Learn more about BrewDog's <a href="https://www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/dining/bars/2019/02/12/brewdog-brewery-dog-house-hotel-creator-picks-indianapolis-for-first-us-bar-outside-of-ohio/2848775002/" target="_blank">Fountain Square location.</a>
Now that you're convinced, here's the nitty-gritty
Room prices range from $170-$200, depending on the type of room and the day of the week. <a href="https://res.windsurfercrs.com/ibe/index.aspx?propertyID=15342" target="_blank">You can book online.</a> <a href="https://res.windsurfercrs.com/ibe/index.aspx?propertyID=15342" target="_blank"><br /></a>
The drive takes about 2 hours and 55 minutes.
The exact location: 100 Gender Road, Canal Winchester, OH, 43110.
Do you have a hot spot for beer lovers that you'd like us to share? Leave us a comment below so that we can broadcast your favorite beer havens in upcoming posts!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" width="128" height="144" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-07-02T10:07:00-07:002019-08-25T15:53:05-07:00Kristie Smithtag:indyhomes.com,2012-09-20:10944Indianapolis Fourth of July events kick off the month with a bang <img width="715" height="457" alt="crowd of people watching fireworks display" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/fireworks_-_main.jpg" />
The Fourth of July and all the festivities that go with it kick off the month of July in Indy. But after the last firework display fizzles out, you’ll find a variety of festivals and events to keep the summer fun going all month long. (By the way, if riding a camel is on your bucket list, be sure to check out the St. George Middle Eastern Festival!) Whatever you plan for July, have a blast!
First Friday Food Truck Festival: July 4
Every first Friday of the month this tasty festival kicks off. Come and enjoy beverages and food from all of your favorite Indy food trucks—all in one spot! Jump from truck to truck and check out all of the great food Indy has to offer! <a href="https://do317.com/events/2019/7/4/first-friday-food-truck-festival-1554741142" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Zionsville Sunday Concert Series: July 7, 14, 21, 28<img width="175" height="175" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" alt="Microphone" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/microphone.jpg" />
Come out to Lions Park every Sunday evening in July for a music-filled night under the stars! Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets and gather around the gazebo. Food and drinks will be available with a donation to Lions Club Park. <a href="http://zionsvillelions.com/concerts-in-july" target="_blank">Details >></a>
CarmelFest: July 3 and 4
Celebrate the 4th of July at CarmelFest, the highlight of the summer in Carmel. Come out for family fun—including a parade, live entertainment, food vendors and a spectacular fireworks display. <a href="http://www.carmelfest.net/" target="_blank">Details >><br /></a>
Kroger Symphony on the Prarie: July 4
Wear your red white and blue to this classic patriotic event with ISO! This Indianapolis traditional event will include classic pieces such as Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, featuring real cannons and--a spectacular firework show! <a href="https://www.indianapolissymphony.org/event-detail/star-spangled-19" target="_blank">Details >></a>
<img width="200" height="133" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" alt="Fireworks over Downtown Indianapolis" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/fireworks_downtown.JPG" />IPL Downtown Freedom Blast: July 4
Enjoy live entertainment, family fun and kids' activities, support local small businesses in the Indiana Originals Marketplace and enjoy a spectacular view of the Downtown fireworks display launched from Regions Tower! <a href="https://www.downtownindy.org/events/7549/ipl-downtown-freedom-blast/" target="_blank">Details >></a>
Fireworks over Zionsville Fourth of July Celebration: July 4
With tons of kids’ activities, food, music and, of course, spectacular fireworks, more than 14,000 people come out every year for this Zionsville tradition. This is the second-largest fundraiser of the year for the Zionsville Lions Club. <a href="http://zionsvillelions.com/events/4th-of-july" target="_blank">Details >><br /></a>
Indy Runners: CarmelFest Freedom Run
Celebrate the 4th with either running the 4.5 mile run or partake in the 1.5 mile walk, both of which will finish in downtown Carmel. Discount rates available for families of 3+. If your child is aged 10 or younger—they run for free! Exercise while celebrating this wonderful patriotic holiday! <a href="https://www.indyrunners.org/view-race-details.aspx?raceID=3240&height=700&width=700" target="_blank">Details>></a>
<img width="124" height="188" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" alt="Indiana Black Expo logo" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/indiana-black-expo-logo.png" />Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration: July 11-21
The expo, which will bring in thousands of visitors, promotes African-American culture, heritage and community through a series of events that include everything from special church services, conferences, children’s activities, and a large concert. <a href="https://summercelebration.net/" target="_blank">Details >></a>
<img width="200" height="133" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" alt="bicycle race" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/bicycle_race.jpg" />Indy Criterium Bicycle Festival: July 13<br />
Thousands of bicycle enthusiasts will descend upon Monument Circle in celebration of the 9th annual IU Health Indy Criterium Bicycle Festival. This family-friendly festival is a fun way to enjoy bicycling in the heart of the city while watching world-class amateur and professional bicycle racing. Other activities include a free Kids Zone, food and drink, a vendor village and free community bike rides. All proceeds benefit Freewheelin’ Community Bikes, a local non-profit committed to enhancing life skills for community youth through bicycles. <a href="https://www.indycrit.org/" target="_blank">Details >><br /></a>
Christmas in July Half Marathon: July 13
Get your Christmas spirit on by hitting the hot streets of Indy for this summer, Christmas-themed half marathon! There will be a holiday themed party after the race with cold beer & soda! <a href="https://www.bikesignup.com/Race/IN/Indianapolis/ChristmasinJulyHalfMarathonand5K" target="_blank">Details>></a>
St. George Middle Eastern Festival: July 19
Where else can you ride a camel in Indiana?! In addition to camel rides all three days of the festival, enjoy authentic Middle Eastern food, such as roast lamb, chicken kabob, tabouli, hummus and baklawa; beer and wine; a marketplace; live entertainment; and fun and games for the kids. Free admission!<a href="https://www.stgindy.org/" target="_blank"> Details >><br /></a>
3rd Annual Pups & Pints Series: July 19<br />
Need I say more?! If you love beer and puppies...this might be your version of heaven. Come to Clay Terrace in Carmel to experiece pure bliss with great beer from Indy's favorite breweries, and treat yourself (and the star of the show--your four-legged-friend) to "Yappy Hour!" <a href="https://clayterrace.com/events-news/event/3rd-annual-pups-pints-event-series" target="_blank">Details>></a>
<img width="200" height="139" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" alt="art of wine" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/art_of_wine.jpg" />Art of Wine: July 20
For wine and art lovers! Enjoy a variety of wines while taking in the Carmel Art & Design District’s galleries, shops and restaurants. Live entertainment rounds out the event. Admission is free; $20 for a wine tasting glass. <a href="http://carmelartsanddesign.com/FEATURES/artofwine/" target="_blank">Details >></a>
24th Annual Indiana Microbrewers Festival: July 27
Drink beer and support Indiana brewers! More than 100 Hoosier independent breweries and guests will provide tastes of hundreds of cask ales, specialty beers, and more. Enjoy local food and entertainment, too! Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Brewers of Indiana Guild and charity partners Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Indiana and Little Red Door Cancer Agency. <a href="https://drinkin.beer/inbeerfest/" target="_blank">Details >><br /></a>
Cirque Du Soleil: Crystal: July 24-28
Come and watch this "breakthrough ice experience" with Cirque Du Soleil! You'll be mezmorized by the air-bending acrobatics and circus arts that take place during this gorgeous performance--on ice! Held at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Snag your tickets now! <a href="https://www.bankerslifefieldhouse.com/event/2019-07-28-cirque-du-soleil-crystal/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
Indianapolis Sky Lantern Festival: July 27
Come to LIGHT THE NIGHT for a night of beauty and magic. Tuck away your hopes and dreams into sky lanterns and release them into the sky! Also, enjoy live music, food vendors and more. If you’re looking for a beautiful and transformative experience, this event was made for you. <a href="https://www.lightthenightevents.com/events/sky-lantern-festival-indianapolis-2019/" target="_blank">Details>></a>
<img width="128" height="144" style="float: left; margin: 3px 10px;" alt="Indianapolis Realtor Kristie Smith" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/685/image/blog_images/ksmith-4.jpg" />About the Author<br />Kristie Smith<br />Kristie Smith is the founder and CEO of the Indy Homes Real Estate Team. She is a REALTOR, and is one of the most recognized and accomplished Indiana real estate agents. Ranked among Central Indiana's top 10 real estate teams, the Indy Homes Team specializes in relocating families moving to the Indy area, as well as Helping People on the Move locally in Indy.
2019-06-19T05:16:00-07:002019-06-21T08:21:53-07:00Kristie Smith