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

Happy Holidays from KimSoper.com!

In real estate, growing and maintaining strong relationships is the key to successful selling. I enjoy working with Lexington Kentucky real estate homeowners over time. Throughout their lives, I stand by my clients, ready to help them as change arises. If you or someone you know is thinking of buying, building or selling a home, in the Lexington real estate area, call me or visit my website today for expert guidance. When you think of real estate, think KimSoper.com. Happy holidays to you and your family! -Kim Soper

How to use the new $7,500 tax credit to save you THOUSANDS of dollars!

It seems like several times a week, I have a buyer who asks about the $7,500 tax credit from the government. They are wondering if it is a loan or a gift? It is a loan, but it is a good loan to utilize if you are a buyer. Basically, the government will give you the 7,500 tax credit and in return over the next 15 years, you will pay them back $500.00 per year. Now, I know it’s never fun to have an extra expense at tax time, but I am going to tell you the biggest benefit of this tax credit. If I were in the shoes of a first-time home buyer, I would take that $7,500 credit and apply that directly toward the principle portion of my home mortgage. By doing so, you will save yourselves over $20,000 in interest over the life of the loan. Sounds like a pretty good savings, right? It truly is! So you could even look at this credit as a gift. I do! If someone is going to help me save 20,000 or more...I am thrilled! Below you will find some commonly asked questions regarding the tax credit:

Tax credit offered to new homebuyers
Expires June 30, 2009!

1. Who is eligible?
a). First-time homebuyers or any homebuyers who have not owned a principal residence in the last three years

2. How does it work?
a). Eligible purchasers can claim the $7,500 credit on their annual tax return form.

b). Amount of credit: 10% of cost of home or a maximum of $7,500

3. How is it repaid?
a). Two years after the credit is claimed, the homebuyer will have to start paying it back.

b). 15 equal annual installments will have to be paid back to the IRS every year.

c). 6.67% of the borrowed amount or a maximum of $502

d). If home is sold before 15 years, the remainder of the loan will have to be repaid to the IRS upon the sale.

e). Part of the liability can be forgiven if the gain on the sale is less than the amount of the loan.

4. What are the restrictions?
a). Home purchase time limit:

b). Homes purchased on or after April 9, 2008 and before July 1, 2009

c). Home must be a single family residence (including condos, coops) that will be used as a principal residence.

d). Home must be located in the United States.

e). Home cannot be financed through mortgage revenue bonds.

f). Income restriction: To qualify for full $7,500 credit, the taxpayer must make no more than
1). $75,000 for single returns
2). $150,000 for joint returns

g). To still qualify for credit but at a lesser amount, the following income caps apply
1). $95,000 for single returns
2). $170,000 for joint returns

For more information on the tax credit:

http://www.realtor.org/gapublic.nsf/files/hbtaxcreditqa2008.pdf/$FILE/hbtaxcreditqa2008.pdf

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq.php


When you are ready to home shop, call me! I am your home shopping expert. With the tax credit and record low interest rates, the buyers are in the driver’s seat. Truly, this is the best time in history to purchase a home. Don’t miss out! Let’s get started today and you will be on your way to buying a home and saving a great deal of money in the long run! For more helpful tips, check out my buyer‘s section on my Lexington, Kentucky Real Estate website. Did you know that it costs you nothing to have a buyer’s agent? Yes, that is right! I will be your professional guide throughout the entire process and it does not cost you a single penny! I, Kim Soper, will take great care of you! Go get your $7,500 15-year interest free loan from the government and score the home of your dreams!

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