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

Caught in the Act - Movie star Bill Murray loves Lexington!

If you tuned into the NBA’s showdown between the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers basketball game on ESPN over the weekend, you probably noticed a big-time celebrity wearing a baseball cap, all so familiar here in Lexington.

Check out actor Bill Murray and his ballgame buddy sidekick Spike Lee chatting during the game. Like wow! Is that really a Lexington Legends hat that Bill is wearing? It sure is and we couldn’t be prouder! Bill, will you be attending Opening Day this year?

If you are not familiar with the Legends, well you must be an out-of-Towner reading this blog (and I thank you). The Lexington Legends are our minor league baseball team. As a Houston Astros affiliate and member of the South Atlantic League, the Legends provide us with countless hours of baseball, family fun and entertainment!

I bet the Legends feel like they have hit a homerun today! I know myself a Lexington resident my entire life sure feels that way! Thank you Bill! Lexington loves you too! And Bill, when you're ready to look at the Lexington Kentucky real estate, who you gonna call? Kim Soper of course!

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

Diamonds in the Rough - Under 300,000, These 2 Lexington Hot Spots for sale Deserve A Serious Look

Over the last day, I feel like I have truly stumbled on two sweet home buys here in the Lexington Kentucky real estate market. I have been calling and emailing every buyer I know looking in this price range, or simply looking for a unique home with a big sales tag attached to it!

Now both of these homes need some attention to detail. And I’m not just taking the small things like vacuuming and dusting. Both of these hidden jewels need some good ole fashion TCL and sweat. And if that is your game, one of these homes should be your new home court.

Listed for 249,900, this 3 bedroom sprawling ranch in the Tahoma Terrace neighborhood sits on nearly ¾ acre lot, probably worth as much as the asking price itself. Just minutes from Central Baptist Hospital and downtown Lexington, Tahoma Terrace is a sought-after older established Lexington neighborhood with large lots, tree lined streets and a picturesque setting of peace and quiet all neatly placed in the middle of the city. Located off of Nicholasville Road, this gem area is within walking distance to the University of Kentucky Arboretum. It has even been reported that one out of state buyer bought a home sight unseen, just to be in the neighborhood.

So I am sure you would agree with me on this diamond in the rough, it is a great location! The home still retains its beautiful oak hardwood floors. Your expense would come in the areas of plumbing and electrical, as it needs to be brought up code. The bathrooms and kitchen could also use a more modern touch. Recent improvements include new paint and the water proofing of the basement. I especially like the covered back porch, a good place to sip your Kentucky beverage of choice and listen to the birds sing. Homes on this street see values between 500,000-700,000 even on a rainy day. If you can do the work, you will appreciate this Tahoma beauty and your sweat equity will certainly pay off!

Listing Office: Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty

Fresh on the Lexington KY real estate market as of, oh, 5 hours ago, this 260,000 Andover Hills home can call itself the Price is Right! Homes of similar size normally hit the market with asking prices of 350,000 and above. Easy on the eyes, this charming 2-story has 5 large bedrooms and spans over 4,600 square feet. Situation on a walk up basement, you will have plenty of room to host those Kentucky Derby parties and all the fun events for the year. Andover Hills is located off of Todds Road. Andover is one of my favorite areas of the Lexington real estate scene. What I love so much about Andover is the real sense of community. There are a ton of children of all ages and every time I am in the area, kids are out in droves riding bikes, playing an old fashion game of hopscotch or out catching lighting bugs at dusk. This is a wonderful area to start and raise a family.

This Andover Hill abode has the community feel and all it needs is for you to give it a little makeover. New paint, carpet, and some minor detailing will go a long.

Listing Office: Rector Hayden Realtors

Stay tuned to my blog as later this week, I will provide you with the most important tips and things to look for before jumping in feet first on a fixer upper. Have any questions or interested in taking a live tour of one of these homes or any home on the Lexington KY real estate market? Call/text or email me anytime to setup your private showing. Reporting live in Lexington, KY -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
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

The most talked about home for sale in Lexington! Rumors run ramped that Toby McGuire & Ashley Judd lived here!

Greetings from here in beautiful Lexington, Kentucky. Today is a crisp 48 degrees. The sun is out and all the snow and ice are melted. It appears that spring is on its way. And it couldn’t come soon enough as Kentucky suffered its largest natural disaster with the ice storm just less than 2 weeks ago. During the ice storm I posted a blog on the Top 5 most talked about homes for sale in the Lexington, Kentucky area. I thought it would be a fun feature blog and something of interest to keep us entertained and well distracted as to what was happening weather wise outside. As we were stuck in our homes and cabin fever started to set in, I came up with the Top 5 list of the most talked about homes for sale in Lexington, KY. Last week, my blog showcased the 4 other contenders. But today, I am bringing you THE ULTIMATE most talked about home for sale in Lexington, KY. So get settled in your chair and read on my friends!

1. Paris Pike - Black Diamond Farm - $14,000,000

This is the most talked about home on the Lexington Kentucky real estate market!! And it has been the topic of discussion since it was constructed back in 1988. Who owns this place? It seems everyone wants to know and very few actually know. Over the years, I’ve heard all kinds of rumors. One rumor centered on Kentucky native Ashley Judd and her famous race car husband, who supposedly bought the home. When Hollywood came knocking and the movie Seabiscuit was filmed here in Lexington a few years back, rumors ran ramped that Hollywood mega star Toby McGuire bought the home. Unfortunately for you celebrity watchers, neither of those two bought this Lexington KY home for sale. But hey, it is for sale now….so there still is a chance!

The owner of the home is pretty low key for the most part, but when it comes to creating a true Bluegrass palace, they are not low key at all. This Federal style home is the most luxurious estate around. Boasting over 17,000 square feet and 63 acres, you are welcomed by a gourmet kitchen, elevator, pub, wine cellar, office wing and a library. Wait, there is more - an indoor pool, a 13,000 square foot pool house, a 4-car garage with two apartments, tennis courts, 20 stall barn, many ponds and waterfalls complete with the most luscious landscaping. The list goes on and on…and I really mean that. Just glancing at pictures of this home makes you want to see more, lots more. This home also has the ultimate Lexington location. Located on historic Paris Pike, the most expensive stretch of highway in the state, Black Diamond Farm is nestled in the heart of Kentucky Horse Farm country. The neighbors include: Gainsway Farm, Walmac, Elmendorf and Spendthrift. Location, location, location! This Lexington KY real estate dream home has everything for living a life of glitz and glamour. Folks, go buy a lottery ticket….this home is a must have! Listing Office: Justice Real Estate

Well, that completes our list of the Top 5 most talked about homes in the Lexington area. Did you see something of interest worth taking a peak? Or are you looking for something more specific? Either way, I can help. Whether you are searching for a turn-key horse operation, a dream estate or simply farm land, I am your number one real estate partner. As a Lexington native, I know the ends and outs of Lexington Kentucky real estate and specialize in the beautiful horse farms or fine estate homes. Contact me today and let’s customize a plan of action to help you achieve your goals.
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

5 Most Talked About Homes for Sale in Lexington, Kentucky!

One of the most exciting parts of my job as a Realtor in the Lexington Kentucky real estate market is having the opportunity to explore first hand some of the most spectacular and priciest homes in the Lexington area. It seems like several times a week, someone will ask, “what is the most expensive home you have sold or been in?” Those are always fun questions because who doesn’t appreciate seeing a home so unique, that describing it truly seems like you are stepping into a fantasyland! As of today in Lexington, we have 49 homes on the market that are priced at one million and up. With our strong ties in the horse industry, some of the most notable farms on the gently rolling Bluegrass also feature some pretty cool home cribs! We have spectacular homes all over the Lexington real estate area, including smack in the middle of downtown Lexington and homes just minutes from major shopping districts and entertainment venues. I have explored many homes during my real estate days, but here are my Top 4 runner ups to the Lexington, Kentucky Most Talked about homes currently available in the Lexington, Kentucky real estate market.

5. West Second Street - Downtown Lexington, KY - $975,000

Anytime I see a historic landmark where a dedicated seller has taken the time and effort (and expense) to preserve a piece of our local history, they will always receive my stamp of approval. It is always more of a challenge restoring a home well over 150 years old. So many additional renovations costs…and of course bringing the home up to current building code on electric, plumbing and technologically, all comes with a hefty price tag. The end result is Wow!! This home located just Two blocks from downtown Lexington and a stone throw from the nation’s 16th oldest university, Transylvania University, is close enough to enjoy the city lights and
nightlife, but it is still far enough away that it is tucked into a tight knit downtown historical community. Built in 1839, this Greek revival recently underwent a 2 year renovation by a well know British architect. As the seller notes, “this home exhibits a modern sensibility and a concern for historic authenticity.” Without a doubt, the seller hit the jackpot with that statement. All parties involved in the historic preservation of this home made sure to incorporate all aspects, from the basic foundation, all the way to the top design layers to create a beautiful look on a classic piece of history. It is also unique to see a beautiful backyard with a sprawling swimming pool tucked in-between all the large historic residences. Truly a neat place to see! The historical significant and the dedication to preserve one of the true downtown gem’s in the Lexington real estate scene gives it a spot in the Top 5 list. Listing Office: Turf Town Properties

4. Lexington’s Prestigious McMeekin Place - Listed at $3,257,000


This stately Georgian home features 6 bedrooms and 10 baths and underwent a complete renovation that span over 2 years. Most Lexington residents will remember this home as the Lexington real estate stopping ground of former University of Kentucky basketball coach Rick Pitino. This fine Bluegrass estate, located on the crisp of Lexington’s sought after Chevy Chase neighborhood, features all the finest in amenities, including Leininger cabinetry, Amish rift sawn white oak floorings with brass inlay, the absolute finest in marble and granite, a theater room and an inground pool and pool house. It has been sold a few times since the post-Pitino days, but I foundly remember when Pitino called this place home before he split to the Boston Celtics in 1997. I remember reading an article in the Lexington Herald Leader which stated basketball fans would cruise by this home and collect a dirt sample from the front yard. Based on that alone, you know this place deserves a spot on my Top 5 list! Listing Office: Prudential A.S. de Movellan

3. Lexington’s “On the Rocks,” estate - $4,800,000

Located on 9 private acres less than 2 miles from Man O’ War (yes that close) is Lexington’s true home of entertainment. My good real estate friend Kassie is showcasing a home with all the comforts of yesteryear intertwined with today’s added amenities. On the rocks boast over 12,000 square feet of living space. Featuring 5 large bedrooms, a private fitness room, sauna and theater room with stadium seating, you would think you are in heaven. But hey, heaven’s great, but how about some paradise too? Okay, here you have it! How does an indoor swimming pool sound? Throw in his and her kitchens, a 2,000 square foot patio space, a 2-story waterfall and you will quickly see that the seller’s have built a special palace for entertaining like no one else in town! Let no mistake be made, On the Rocks is your premiere Lexington real estate for of your future entertaining. Listing Office: Rector Hayden Realtors, South

2. 4895 Buggy Lane - Horse Haven Farm $2,895,000

Here, a traditional Horse Haven paradise meets modern technology to the max! This first-class operation spans 20 acres, featuring a 5,320 square foot house and a 6,000 square foot heated and cooled barn. Yes, that is right, heated and cooled! And what a barn it truly is! Both the barn and the spacious home were masterfully planned by the sellers. Each and every detail was given the fullest attention making this showplace a true gem! Even right down to the soil! The training arena consists of a 6 inch base of glass ice sand, followed by 4 inches of imported Brown River sifted sand. The animals on this farm have all of the finest in care and living amenities. Here, at Horse Haven Farm, the horses are not the only ones that enjoy the finest in luxury living. Aside from the barn being highly technologically equipped, the home boast the same. You will find CAT 3, 5E and RG6 lines, a 7-zone Elan system, several geothermal (in home and barn). In the event you are away from the home for the day, rest assured you will be able to check on your home and horses, via the Internet 24/7. Numerous security cameras are found on the property, including a camera mounted above each stall to allow you constant monitoring of your horses. If you are a tech guru, come see this place today! Horse Haven Farm would even make Bill Gates do a double take! Listing Office: Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty -Kim Soper

Well, that completes our list (spots 2-5) of the most talked about homes in the Lexington Kentucky real estate market. Next week, look for THE #1 most talked about home for sale in Lexington! Did you see something of interest worth taking a peak? Or are you looking for something more specific? Either way, I can help find your Lexington Kentucky home. Whether you are searching for a turn-key horse operation, a dream estate or simply farm land, I am your number one real estate partner. As a Lexington native, I know the ends and outs of the Lexington real estate market and specialize in the beautiful horse farms or fine estate homes. Contact me today and let’s customize a plan of action to help you achieve your goals.

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

How to Add a Touch of Room Service to Your Home Using the Four Senses for a Quicker Sale!

Welcome! Over the course of this year, I am going to touch on many topics relevant to home selling, home buying and staging. That is just for starters! There is mortgage, foreclosures and special features that will be coming your way! One of the biggest questions I am asked daily is how to get a home sold quickly, while achieving the best price obtainable, all in the shortest period of time. Of course, who doesn’t want to achieve that? Last week, I listed a beautiful home in the Lexington Kentucky real estate market, specifically in the Kennawood neighborhood. Two days later, my sellers were thrilled to have a contract - signed, sealed and delivered to me, their agent. As I went over to meet with the appraiser yesterday, he asked….what made this home sell so quickly? He wondered if the seller’s just bottomed out to an unheard of low asking price. As I unlocked the door to let him in, I didn’t have to say a word! He saw what I did and what the new buyers did! It was a home, well prepared by its owners and eagerly awaiting a “Sold by Kim” sign in the front yard. So how did they sell their home in just Two days? Bottom line: their home appealed to a buyer’s Four senses. I am going to touch on those Four important senses. Follow my guide and start packing because you are moving!

1. Light /Sight: It is a proven fact that buyers react more positively to a property shown under bright lights than darkness. Strive to maximize light in every room!

*Replace the light bulbs
*Use table lamps in combination with overhead lighting
*Open drapes and blinds
*Use light paint colors
*Make sure your windows are clean
*Mirrors are great to magnify the space and the feeling of light
*Try to turn on the lights before the buyer/agent arrive

2. Color: Don’t use every color in the box of Crayola!

*Neutral is your best bet! Stick with buyer friendly colors such as a beige, white or gray on the outside
*The safest color choice for the interior is white, off-white, a light beige or very soft pastels (and so soft they *still appear nearly white*).
*Try to avoid wallpaper at all costs. I recommend eliminating any and all wallpaper from homes, especially in kitchen and bathrooms.
*Keep walls very neutral but spruce up a room with bright colored rugs, towels and shower curtains.


3. Sound: Sellers usually overlook this area, but listen up and pay close attention here!

*Peace and quite are the best sounds to experience when looking at a home. This allows a buyer to truly focus on picturing themselves living in your home.
*Before a showing, the seller needs to make sure not to run the dishwasher or leave on a TV. Trust me, even the quietest dishwasher talks and do you really want the buyer to flop themselves on your couch to catch the last few minutes of a ballgame? Keep their attention on your home!
*Make sure there are no sounds such as a dripping in the tub or sink, or mechanical problems like banging pipes.
*If you insist on a sound to set the mood, go with a classical or instrumental sound. Get the buyer in the mood to look around and explore all your home has to offer. Ever noticed the music that is played at the grocery store? It’s usually fun and upbeat…it makes you want to shop and buy more! There is a strategy behind that! Have a strategy behind the sound of your home.

4. Smell: This one sense will make or break you within the first few seconds after a buyer walks into your home! Think about a model home -it’s new, fresh and clean…strive to create those features.

*Bottom link: think CLEAN!
*Clean your home frequently. Lemon oil can have a long lasting scent, so use it!
* Painting your walls, having the carpets cleaned, adding a fresh coat of polyurethane to wood floors will give you the smell of new.
*Place special cleaning emphasis on areas where your pet stays.
*Try to not cook shortly before a home showing. A cooking smell can be a major turnoff.

This may seem like a lot to worry about. But just service your home room by room and you will have your place show ready in a matter of no time. For more information and more tips, email me and I will be happy to answer questions, provide you with additional tips or even stop by for a personalized home consultation. If you correctly set the mood, your work will pay off. Are you thinking of buying another home? You better be because your home is about to fly off the market to a sold position. Let me guide you on exactly what to watch out for. I am ready to go to work for you.

Wishing you all my best in your home selling and home search in the Lexington Kentucky real estate area! -Kim AKA KimSoper.com!



Kim Soper, REALTOR
Residential & Commercial Real Estate
www.KimSoper.com
Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty
2424 Harrodsburg Road, Suite #101
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 509-8008 cell
(859) 269-0065 fax
kim@kimsoper.com

Kentucky Derby Features