Tuesday, April 28, 2009

There's no Horse Play When it Comes to Throwing a Kentucky Derby Party!

Springtime is here and the horses are just a few days away from loading the starting gate for the 135 running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in fantastic Louisville, KY. Derby Day in Kentucky is the most special day of the year in our state - a day when the world focuses its attention on good ole beautiful Kentucky.what a view!


It’s the day when you roll out of bed and hit the great outdoors; something just feels so different on the first Saturday in May. Everything feels so special. You feel like the grass has never been greener, the flowers have never been prettier and you take a deep breath and reflect on how great it is to be a Kentuckian. It’s an overwhelming sense of pride. I love sharing this time of the year with my friends, family and clients. Many of my clients are moving in from other states and always want to know “how to throw a great Derby party.” The truth of the matter is, it’s pretty simple - eat, drink and play like a true Kentuckian and you will look like Kentucky bred royalty. Even if you were not born here, you can simply play it off with the right tools and must haves for your Kentucky Derby Party.

We are just days away from the Big Day, so let’s get this on track!

1. Decide what kind of Derby party you want to have:
Do you want to throw an elegant high society bash where you want to capture the feel of millionaires’ row? Then send out fancy invitations and tell your guests to dress to kill! Serve seafood and other Southern Specialty in your finest china and lines.

2. Or do you want to capture the sprint of the rowdy Derby infield, where the regular folks eat, play and watch the race? If this makes your day rosey, throw a TV onto the deck, BBQ everything southern - ribs, corn, etc.

Regardless of your party style, below are MUST HAVES:

1. Stock up on 3 common “must haves”:
• Food
• Liquor
• Gambling

Food Should Include:
Bourbon Balls
Derby Pie
Cheese Grits
Beaten Biscuits and Country Ham
BBQ Pork
Benedictine
Kentucky Beer Cheese
Pecan Pie
Hot Brown
Kentucky Burgoo
Henry Bain Sauce












Drinks

Mint Juleps (the official drink of the Derby)
Kentucky Bourbon (Makers Mark, Woodford Reserve, Blanton’s, etc)
Whiskey
Sweet Tea
Lemonade
Artsy fartsy shot of my mint julep

Gambling:
Derby Pot or choose to auction off each horse to the highest bidder
Jackpots (place all the Derby horses in an envelope, have a set “buy-in” amount and everyone draws a name out of the pot)
-if you are able, hire a bookie to place bets from party

Other must have items include: Derby hats, anything with Roses such as table centerpieces, Mint Julep cups, betting forms, dry erase board where you can write the names of the Derby horses, anything you can find horse themed. Bottom line: just have fun and make your 2009 Run for the Roses, the most Derby party on the block!

The First Saturday in May is very special, so get ready to party and enjoy this special day!

Reporting live here in Lexington, KY, the horse capital of the world - www.KimSoper.com!



When you think of Lexington, Kentucky real estate, think http://www.kimsoper.com/ and let's get started today!

Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
http://www.kimsoper.com/
Lifetime Member of Million Dollar Club
Relocation Specialist
CMS Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
Kim@kimsoper.com

Monday, April 20, 2009

Breaking News: Craigslist Scam hits Lexington Kentucky Real Estate Market

Real Estate is hoppin’! With historic low rates, an $8,000 tax credit, and great deals to be had, now is definitely the time to make a move! But a strong word of caution before leaping without looking – there are, unfortunately, corrupt individuals and organizations out there promoting what appear to be great real estate opportunities, when in fact, they are nothing but scams!


Case in point: By Monday afternoon, I had received 16 calls on just one of my listings. Sounds great for my seller…or was it? Turns out, all of these callers had one thing in common: They were searching for rentals on Craigslist and saw what appeared to be an incredible property listed at an incredible price. Now, let me digress by confirming that indeed this was a genuine property listed on Craigslist because I posted it! However, this property was NEVER for rent and in fact, had already been sold earlier in the week. Further research revealed that the content from my original listing (photographs, property information, etc.) had been taken and “reused” through a fake rental posting. As the Realtor of the original (and true) listing, my contact information was removed entirely. In its place, a generic email account was the only contact source available, requesting that those who were searching the site email them for more information. Once they did, then they would receive a letter from the fake "seller" based out of West Africa. This fake "seller" was conveniently unable to meet the potential renters right here in hometown Lexington, claiming to be traveling abroad for the purpose of bidding on petroleum land. In their absence, they requested that the renter hopefuls fill out a personal information sheet, submit it, and then they would simply mail them the keys to the property.

Many of these renter hopefuls decided to go view the property - since coming from Craigslist it seemed fairly legit - and once they saw my contact information on the sale sign in the front yard, they called to ask about renting. When I repeatedly had to inform them that the house was for sale, not for rent, I knew something was up - the seller wasn't from Africa and this was a bonafied scam!

Having heard of similar scenarios occurring in New York and Florida a few months ago, I knew immediately the actions that I needed to take:

1. I made sure all of the people that called on this property clearly understood this home was not for rent and to make sure they did not /would not send any personal information to this alleged "seller" in Africa.

2. I notified my sellers immediately and let them know what was going on. I strive hard to make sure my sellers are always educated regarding how the showing process works and to make sure they never show the home unless I've set up an appointment with them in advance.

3. I went to Craigslist to report the fake posting. I, in no way shape or form, tolerate any fraudulent activity regarding someone’s home - let alone stealing marketing information and photographs in an attempt to con others.

After doing this, I wanted to go a step further by trying to get the word out through this blogsite, so that others may learn about this possible pitfall and protect themselves and their family, whether they are buying, selling, or in this case - renting!

Often times for buyers, the "Real Estate World" can be very daunting in its own right, let alone with all of the new tricks con artists keep trying. Buying a home is the single, largest financial transaction one will make in a lifetime and one that can be very confusing and overwhelming. That's why it's so crucial to have the right people on your team to help you to achieve your goals and to look out for your best interests...always.

Here are a few quick tips to help you assess whether or not a property promotion or advertisement is "too good to be true:"

If you are potential buyer:
1. Look out for poor grammar and confusing syntax. Often times, British spellings for words can be a red flag, but it goes without saying that this isn't always the case. Odd sentences with words misspelled or missing altogether can likewise be a dead giveaway! Think: "Not Local."

2. If someone doesn't provide adequate contact information such as a full name, business name, email, and phone number, be very leery. A legit business person will have most - if not all - of these items, especially a phone number.

3. If they can not meet you in person because they are traveling, etc. and say they can send you keys via mail, chalk this one up as a scam!

4. If they ask for personal information, bank account numbers, or they want you to write a check in excess of the required amount, again, stay far away from this!

5. If you are buying a home, connect yourself with a good, honest local Realtor who will have your best interests at heart and who is available to answer all of your questions.

6. Bottom line: If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!

If you are a seller of a residential property currently on the real estate market:

1. Make sure you never let anyone in your home that does not have a prior appointment to see your home.

2. Hire a Realtor. We are here to protect you, your home, and to make sure that all buyers coming to see your home are qualified, ready to buy, and are legit.

3. If someone knocks on your door, do not show them the home. Think: "Safety!" Tell them to call your Realtor to set up an appointment and that your Realtor will be happy to show them your home. Don’t ever fret when someone says they have to see your home now or they will walk away. A true, genuine buyer will understand. Do not let anyone ever pressure you to get in to see your home.

4. Always confirm! If someone comes to your home and presents you with a business card saying they are an agent, don't automatically assume they are! Again, call your Realtor ASAP and confirm this information with them.

All in all, I hope these tips have helped and just remember that any true, honest, and reliable business person or company will NEVER ask you to submit detailed personal information over the internet. From Real Estate to Ebay, PayPal to banks, all of these companies will tell you that they will never ask for your password or personal information via online. The best rule of thumb: If you are suspicious at all, just call the company directly. If you receive an email alerting you of needed contact or personal information, never follow the links. Fraudulent companies and individuals have their cons down to a science, often mimicking the exact homepage of the original, true company and then emailing you to link to them. Just contact the company directly to confirm. Also, if at all possible, simply conduct your business matters with someone local. Even though technology has made it possible to communicate with others far away, having some good, ol' fashioned 'face-to-face' time is the best way to go!

If you have any questions about anything real estate in general, I will be happy to assist you. Call/text me and please visit my official website for all things Lexington KY Real Estate at www.kimsoper.com.

Wishing you all my best! Reporting live here in Lexington, Kentucky! - www.KimSoper.com!

When you think of Lexington KY real estate, think www.KimSoper.com and let's get started today!



Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
www.KimSoper.com
Multi Million Dollar Producer
Relocation Specialist
CMS Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
Kim@kimsoper.com

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

It’s time to sell your home, now what do you do with Snoopy? Do you let the buyer and your dog wander throughout the house TOGETHER????

You’ve cleaned for days, boxed away all those items you still haven’t used from your family holiday gift exchange and now you’re getting settled on the couch. Whew! Your hard work is done and now you are anxiously waiting for your Realtor to call and say a buyer wants to see your home!

On Sunday, they call! After hanging up the phone, you excitingly straighten the room for the 100th time and grab your cute little Bassett Hound pup Snoopy and hit the great outdoors. Out you go for a walk as your future buyer walks in your door! You Mr. & Mrs. Seller did great! A+ on your job of getting you and Snoopy out the door!

Now it’s a workday and your Realtor calls and you are at work till 6 and a buyer wants to see your home at 4? Do you run home and crate your pup or do you just let them look, while the buyer and your dog wander throughout the house TOGETHER????

After all, your friendly dog would never hurt a fly and loves people and kids!

Guess what? If you don’t crate your sweet little pup or remove the dog from the house during the showing, my buyer and I will not enter your home no matter how cute your pick-of-the-litter is!

I am not being rude, I am being safe! No matter know friendly your dog is, we are still strangers in their home and even the friendliest dog is protective of their owner’s home! The last thing I would ever want to occur is taking a risk that my buyer is in any sort of danger of being bit or attacked. Two things could occur: 1. they will never buy your home, 2. you may also see a lawsuit. And third, what if your dog accidentally ran out the door, down the street. My buyer or I would never want to lose your dog!

I ran into this situation last week here in the Lexington real estate world. I called the seller’s agent to setup a showing for my buyer and I. The agent informed me that the dog would be in the home and “the dog is old and would just follow us around, no big deal” he said! “Go ahead and show it..the dog does not bite.” he added. I explained to him that we would not show the home unless the dog could be removed or in a crate. So after discussing this matter with him, he finally came around to our side and said he would see if the seller could get the dog.

A few minutes later, the agent called and said the owner would be coming to remove his dog. It just so happens my buyer and I arrived at the home about 5 minutes early and we saw the seller as he carried his dog out of the house. Guess what? The dog bit the owner on the arm! My buyer and I watched in shock as the owner gently (as much as he could muster with his dog biting him) laid the dog on the ground to stop him from biting.

Interesting huh? And we were told it was a friendly dog! He was biting his owner, so of course my buyer and I, the complete strangers to the dog, could have been in danger. There is a great chance the dog probably would not have had any issues with getting a little territorial with us in his home.


Bottom line: pets are great and make the best companions one could have. But pets need to be protected too. When you’re home is on the market and being shown by agents, remember to cage or remove your pets. The last thing we would ever want to happen is an unfortunate accident.

If you have any questions about pet safety while selling your home or any other questions, I will be happy to assist you. Call/text me and please visit my official website for all things Lexington KY Real Estate at http://www.kimsoper.com/

Reporting live here in Lexington, Kentucky! -http://www.kimsoper.com/


When you think of Lexington KY Real Estate, think http://www.kimsoper.com/ and let's get started today!


Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
http://www.KimSoper.com
Multi Million Dollar Producer
Relocation Specialist
CMS Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
Kim@kimsoper.com

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Kentucky has their man! Coach Calipari on flight now to Lexington, KY!

Kentucky’s newest member of the community is on a plane taxing off the run way in Memphis, Tennessee just this very minute!! That person is the beloved Coach John Calipari who has just accepted the position to head up the men’s basketball program at the University of Kentucky! Kentucky, the most winning program in the history of college basketball is rejoicing as Big Blue nation is already feeling the mass hysteria associated with new hire. More details to follow and watch for the official announcement on your local TV and national sports stations tomorrow. The Cats are back! Welcome to Big Blue Nation Coach Calipari and family!

Reporting live here in Lexington, KY! - Kim Soper























When you think of real estate, think www.KimSoper.com and let's get started today!










Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
www.KimSoper.com
Multi Million Dollar Producer
Relocation Specialist
CMS Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
Kim@kimsoper.com

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

After Nearly a 40 Year Wait, The Famous Kentucky Castle Opens to the Public for First Time

By far the most discussed resident in Versailles, Kentucky is the famous Castle! Sitting on 50.5 acres, a true castle exists in the middle of horse country. The castle "has been the subject of more speculation than any other building in the Bluegrass, and its a great fuel for the childs imagination," said 1997s The Insiders Guide to Lexington and the Kentucky Bluegrass.

And now, nearly 40 after its initial construction, the Kentucky Castle, now The Castle Post in Versailles just recently opened its oversized doors and allowed guests in for a sneak peak during a charity event. Take a look at the pictures, as http://www.kimsoper.com/ gives you a first-hand sneak peek of the Kentucky Castle!!




The castle was built in the 1970s by Rex and Caroline Martin. However, the Martins divorced soon after construction began and the castle was never occupied. When finished the castle was to have seven bedrooms and 15 bathrooms, an Italian fountain in the driveway, tennis courts and every amenity found in a true European castle. Sadly, the castle was never finished.

Castle for sale for over 20 years, but no one was allowed to see it!

In the late 1980s a small for-sale sign was placed on the main gate to the Castle, making it available on the Versailles real estate market. Hundreds called on the sign but no one ever received a return call. It is said that Rex Martin never really wanted to sell due to his broken heart. Both the City of Lexington and City of Versailles Chamber of Commerce say they have fielded more questions on the Castle than any other attraction in the area. In 2003, Martin died and the castle and land were purchased by Thomas Post, who wanted to remodel and finish the Castle as a Bed and Breakfast.

Fire erupts, town in shock!

Shortly after construction began in 2004, a fire erupted and damaged much of the Castle. Hundreds of residents, passersby and television crews watched as the Castle burned in flames. Post, vowed once again to rebuild the castle to all its glory. The Castle is now set to open in the spring of 2009 for overnight guests and parties. Many residents have been counting down the days just to get a glimpse of the inside as only a handful of people have ever been inside the structure during its dramatic history. The castle is a sight that has even caught the attention of Queen Elizabeth and celebrities such as Rock Hudson, Sylvester Stallone and Lee Majors. When completed, the castle will be a prime destination for Versailles real estate and a landmark for travelers passing through the area. It is a sight not to be missed for the world!

The Castle FINALLY opens!

And the days of waiting are over as the Kentucky Castle, AKA. now The Castle Post is set to open any day now.

Nightly room rates will start at a $1,000.00 per night and the Turret guest suites are $3,000 per night. Of course to use the entire facility for an evening, you’re looking at thousands of pretty pennies. The place is so worth it! There are hidden attractions all over the Castle. On the roof top, there is a large shuffleboard. In one of the Turrets, you have a bar, one Turret has a hot tub. Another one is used for a restroom and the Fourth one is not yet completed.

Interest in The Castle Post is extremely strong and will remain that way forever. I know as a Kentuckian my entire life, my Castle stories can be traced back to my early childhood as my family always passed the Castle on our way to Boyd’s Apple Orchard. Never thought I would ever be able to step inside a real castle right in my backyard! Thank you Thomas Post for bringing my childhood memories to life! We thank you for your devotion and love for our Castle!

Reporting live and wishing you all my best in beautiful Lexington, KY, your LexVegas Blogger, AKA http://www.kimsoper.com/. -Kim




When you think of real estate, think http://www.kimsoper.com/ and let's get started today!

Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
http://www.kimsoper.com/
Multi Million Dollar Producer
Relocation Specialist
CMS Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
Kim@kimsoper.com

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Business Week names Lexington, Kentucky as One of Best Cities to Ride Out The Recession




This week Lexington, Kentucky received more national attention as Business Week named Lexington one of the best cities for riding out the recession. Factors such as low unemployment rate and the number of jobs available in the education, agricultural and healthcare fields added fuel to the Lexington economy.

Lexington is no stranger to the national spotlight. Just last summer Delta’s Skyline Magazine profiled our charming Bluegrass city in its publication, by taking in-depth look at the city focusing on the bustling economy, locally owned businesses, the history, healthcare, the beautiful and scenic landscape, modern technology, the thoroughbred industry and education. Plenty of interviews, photographs and local commentary are jam packed into the magazine.

The Lexington, Kentucky real estate market remains strong and has swayed away from the national trends of declining markets. Businesses are booming and the quality of life here is unsurpassed!


Reporting live here in Lexington, Kentucky, your LexVegas Blogger, AKA www.KimSoper.com!




When you think of Real Estate, think KimSoper.com and let's get started today!



Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
www.KimSoper.com
Multi Million Dollar Producer
Relocation Specialist
CMS Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
Kim@kimsoper.com

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Looking to buy a fixer-upper? Here are 10 important tips not to miss before you buy!

So it’s freezing outside and there is nothing to do! Gotta stay in and stay warm. Do your evenings consists of sipping on your mug of hot chocolate as you lounge around on the coach watching home shows on TV? If you are always glued to HGTV, you are not alone. Millions of viewers tune in each week to learn how to get into the game of home remodeling and making nice with the fixer uppers. And now you’re starting to think to yourself, you could do that too! But wait, sometimes it is not so easy to spot an ideal property project and usually this reconstruction process will take longer than that of a 30 minute TV show. Okay, so it will take a lot longer. Probably months or maybe a year. That is why it is crucial that you think long and hard about taking on a fixer upper and know the ends and outs. Here are a few tips and things to look for:

1. Make sure the home that you want to purchase is at least 30% below the market value of similar homes in the same neighborhood. Meaning -work with a great Realtor who will help you get the best deal!

2. Look for sellers who are ready to make a deal. Estate, bank owned, relocation company are good starts. And if the home is vacant, obviously it is ready to be sold ASAP.

3. Location is everything! And you can’t change this crucial factor so make sure it is located in an area well loved by its residents and on a quiet street. Low crime rate and schools are other factors to consider.

4. Make sure the fixer-upper is near your current residence. If you have to commute more than 30 minutes or so, you may often times skip the drive. And it is important that you visit the home everyday while the work is in progress.

5. Choose a home that has a minimum of 3 bedrooms. Anything less and it will take longer to sale on the market, if you decide to flip or resale at some point.

6. Overlook all the superficial things. You can always repaint over a lime green wall and either clean or replace dirty carpets. Just make sure the problems aren’t an indicator of serious neglect.

7. Look for homes needing minor repairs such painting, carport and flooring, landscaping refreshing and new lighting fixtures. Those are all easy and relatively inexpensive projects.

8. Look out for homes needing plumbing and electrical updating. MAJOR expense lies here. If you are licensed in those fields, pat yourself on the back because you have saved yourself several Benjamin’s in your wallet. If you are not certified, do not attempt these tasks. Even the next buyer will want the work performed by a licensed technician.

9. If you notice any cracked ceiling plaster or bulging walls or ceilings, take note. Minimal damage can be covered with paint, but major repairs may include the expense of replacing drywall. Although not too expensive, dry walling is a messy process.

10. Use your eyes on every wall and ceiling to look for signs of leaks or flooding. Flaking and peeling of paint around windows can indicate a sign of a moisture issues. And fully inspect the basement for a musty smell. Check all the walls too for any stains on the wall near the flooring. Don’t forget about checking around the skylights too.

This is just a start, trust me, there are many more factors to consider. And I can help you with that. I will be happy to give you more insights and even walk the home with you to look for deficiencies or hidden money-pit issues. If you can do most of the work or can have it done at a very reasonable price, then this might be a good fit for you. You can certainly get a home that needs some work for a lot less cash and older homes especially, have a lot of charm and creative floor plans. Always keep in mind that what you see on the surface does not always tell the entire story. Removing one wall, an appliance or bookshelf may unleash a whole new set of issues. Make sure you have a good Realtor representing you as a buyer’s agent and make sure you have a complete property inspection performed by a licensed home inspector before acquiring the home. Bottom line: just don’t bite off more than you can chew!

Looking for more fixer-upper tips or interested in starting your own home search in the Lexington Kentucky real estate market. Don’t hesitate to contact me today. Whether you prefer email, texting or a more personalize touch via the phone, contact me today. I am here waiting to speak to you anytime and I am ready to go to work for you. There are many beautiful homes for sale in Lexington, KY and I will help you find the cream of the crop. There is no time better than now! Take advance of our buyer’s market and let’s start finding that perfect place today!

Reporting live here in Lexington, KY, your LexVegas Blogger AKA www.KimSoper.com!



When you think of Real Estate, think www.KimSoper.com and let's get started today!


Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
http://www.kimsoper.com/
Lifetime Member of the Million Dollar Club
Relocation Specialist
CMS-Certified e-Marketing Specialist
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
kim@kimsoper.com
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