Louisville Real Estate News : July 2009

One of the best aspects of living in Douglass Hills is the convenience of the park.  Regardless of your age or interests, the park offers plenty to do.  From a playground to tennis courts to sand volleyball pits to bike trails and open space for soccer, football, or frisbee golf; this green space has plenty for kids of all ages.  Grills and picnic tables are available for family gatherings, quiet picnics, etc.  There's even a large gazebo if your get-together is requires more space.  Finally, the Douglass Hills pool is adjacent to the park.

While this public space is convenient to most of Middletown, there is nothing quite like being within walking distance.  This is a tremendous amenity for Douglass Hills residents.

Playground

Sand volleyball courts and plenty of open space for soccer, frisbee, etc.

Gazebo for family gatherings

Water Slide

Douglass Hills Pool

Click the link to search for Douglass Hills Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Douglass Hills in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, Brooks and Pewee Valley.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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By now, most everyone is at least aware of CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs).  Perhaps you are even aware of the tremendous energy savings these bulbs offer over traditional lamps.  If not, I've shown the potential savings below.  What you may not be aware of is the current promotion at Lowes. 

First, the math

The average home has 50 light bulbs.  (Hang on, finish reading and then go count)

The average bulb is on 4 hours per day. 

Assuming 60W bulbs, this equates to  50*4*365*60 = 4380 Kilowatt hours (KWH) of energy consumption per year. 

The average KWH costs $0.10. 

So, your light bulbs cost you $438 / year.

A CFL uses less than 1/4 of the wattage of traditional bulbs which equates to $109.50 per year. 

Converting your house to CFLs yields a savings of $328.50 per year.

Knowing this, I assume you are rushing to your cars and headed to the store.  But, it gets even better.  For a limited time, you can buy a 7-pack of 13W (same light output as a 60) bulbs for $9.98 and receive a gift card for $10.00 off of your next $50 purchase.  That's right, the net price is -$0.02! You get paid to save hundreds of dollars.

For those of you who like to throw money away, please send a little my way.  Better yet, do something useful with it and send it here.  For the rest of you, head to Lowes. 

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, Brooks and Pewee Valley.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estateor to Search for Louisville Homes 

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Hurstbourne

Incorporated in 1982, Hurstbourne is actually a city within the borders of Louisville and Jefferson County.  Development started in 1965, but most homes were built in the 70's and 80s.  One of the more intriguing aspects of this community is the Hurstbourne Country Club which was strategically designed in the center of the city.  The 18 hole golf course, is popular and challenging. 

Hurstbourne homes are extremely diverse.  From traditional 2-stories to sprawling ranches, buyers have quite a range to choose from.  Most homes have 4 bedrooms, 3+ baths, and more than 3000 square feet of living space.

Due to the age of the homes, the interiors are as diverse as the exteriors.  Many have been updated over the years and rival new construction luxury homes when it comes to amenities and details.  Others are awaiting the right buyer to modernize them.  If you choose one in the latter category, rest assured that smart decisions will yield very nice returns if you ever decide to move. 

Hurstbourne homes are generally priced between $225,000 and $450,000.  However, there are a few large homes that easily clear the $1,000,000 mark.  There are no HOA fees, but the city does have it's own tax. 

Hurstbourne Neighborhood Info

This planned community offers a great deal of services and benefits to its residents.  For more information, check out the city's website.    

Schools

Students who live in Hurstbourne and attend Jefferson County Public Schools are in Cluster 5.  Reside schools include

• Lowe Elementary School
• Westport Trad Middle School
• Eastern High School

Location

Hurstbourne is located between I64 and Shelbyville Road just west of Hurstbourne Road.  In addition to the multitude of shops and restaurants surrounding this neighborhood, residents are within minutes of Jeffersontown, St Matthews and Middletown.  It is hard to find a more convenient location! 

Nearby Louisville Homes 

• Douglass Hills
• Plainview
• Owl Creek
• Willow Wood 

Click the link to search for Hurstbourne Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Hurstbourne in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

When you are ready to buy or sell a Hurstbourne home, please call me (502)-921-3989.  As a local expert, I will be able to make sure you get the most out of your real estate transaction. 

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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$5000 Kentucky Tax Credit

Effective immediately, the state of Kentucky is offering all non-first time home buyers a $5000 tax credit for the purchase of a new home.  This is great news for builders and for existing home owners who are ready to take advantage of the current market conditions. 

The Details

1. This money is for buyers who are not eligible for the federal $8000 first time home buyer tax credit.
2. To qualify, you must purchase a new (never been occupied) home and use it as your principal residence.
3. You must purchase your new home between July 26, 2009 and July 25, 2010 OR before the funds run out.  (Please note, $25 Milllion has been allocated, but you do not want to wait too long.)
4. This is a NON-REFUNDABLE tax credit.  In other words, the amount you get back cannot exceed the amount you owe in Kentucky State Taxes. 
   
5. You must submit your application via fax within seven (7) days of your purchase (closing) date. 

Your Plan (Louisville and Bullitt County Residents)

For all of you who have want a piece of the action, this is what you should do immediately...

1) Call me so we can discuss listing your current home.  You really want to get your home on the market before $8000 tax credit expires.  At the same time, I'll review various new construction homes in the Louisville area and you can start to think about where you want to live.  

2) Call your lender.  Make sure there are no issues with your credit and get a pre-approval letter for a new home. 

3) Call your accountant to discuss the best way to maximize your return.  Remember, this is non-refundable.

Note: If you don't have a lender or an accountant, I have recommendations for you.

Final Thoughts

It is not going to get much better than this.  Interest rates remain at near historic lows.  In fact, there is a good chance today's rates are at least 1 whole point below your current rate.  The federal government is offering tax incentives for buyers to purchase your home.  Not only is the state government offering further assistance to these buyers, but also Kentucky is giving YOU money towards YOUR next home.  This is your personal bailout plan!  You can take advantage of it and find a new home for yourself and your family or you can stay put.  I encourage you to act.

Here's a couple of other things to think about...

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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Stone Bridge

Simply stunning.  This eastern Louisville neighborhood features ~40 spectacular homes situated on 1 acre lots.  The 'smaller' homes have 4500 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, and 4 car garages.  If that isn't enough space, the larger homes are just under 7000 square feet.

While Stone Bridge is too small to support a community center, about 1/3 of the homes have a pool and several have their own tennis courts.  If yours does not, you should become friends with your neighbor. 

You can expect the level of detail to be on par with the size of the home.  Ceilings are 10' high and vaulted treyed or canopied.  Floors are often marble, tile, and hardwood.  Kitchens and baths are expansive and feature granite counter tops and top of the line fixtures.  Dentil moldings, chair rails, etc provide finishing touches to each room.

Stone Bridge homes are generally priced between $800,000 and $1,000,000.  The HOA fee is $900 annually. 

Stone Bridge Neighborhood Info

This deed-restricted subdivision is friendly and exquistely-maintained.  Most homes are surrounded by mature trees and are professionally landscaped.      

Schools

Students who live in Stone Bridge and attend Jefferson County Public Schools are in Cluster 6.  Reside schools include

• Bowen Elementary School
• Crosby Middle School
• Eastern High School

Note: While Stone Gate is in Anchorage, it is not subject to Anchorge School Taxes. 

Location

Stone Gate is located on Old Harrods Creek Road just below LaGrange Road.  Homes in the back of the subdivsion baack up to those in Owl Creek.  Despite the easy access to major intersections, Stone Gate has a very private feel.  There are no thru-roads in the subdivision, so traffic is minimal.   

Nearby Louisville Homes 

• Foxgate
• Owl Creek
• Willow Wood 

Click the link to search for Stone Bridge Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Stone Bridge in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

When you are ready to buy or sell a Stone Bridge home, please call me (502)-921-3989.  As a local expert, I will be able to make sure you get the most out of your real estate transaction. 

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email

Foxgate

Nestled between Willow Wood and Owl Creek, this ~140 home neighborhood is easy to miss.  But, when it comes to identifing eastern Louisville's top neighborhoods, it is impossible to overlook.  This picturesque community offers fantastic homes in a near-ideal location. 

Most of the homes in this ~20 year-old neighborhood are 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath and have over 2200-30000 square feet of above-ground living space.  Basements are also common.  Because of the age of the neighborhood, these all brick homes are surrounded by mature trees and developed landscaping.  As you drive down the divided street, you can't help but notice the stark contrast in aesthetic appeal to that of newer neighborhoods.

Foxgate homes are generally priced in the lower $300s and the HOA fee is around $30 / month

Foxgate Neighborhood Info

This deed-restricted neighborhood is friendly and well-maintained.  The divided streets are lined with sidewalks and residents are often seen walking, jogging, or riding bikes.  Underground utilies help preserve the appearance of these Louisville homes.     

Schools

Students who live in Foxgate and attend Jefferson County Public Schools are in Cluster 5.  Reside schools include

• Middletown Elementary School
• Crosby Middle School
• Eastern High School

Location

Foxgate is conveniently located off of Dorsey Lane between Middletown and Hurstbourne.  The secluded feel belies the fact that 2 Malls, dozens of restaurants, and much, much more are within 5 miles.  

Nearby Louisville Homes

• Douglass Hills 
• Plainview
• Owl Creek
• Willow Wood 

Click the link to search for Foxgate Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Foxgate in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

When you are ready to buy or sell a Foxgate home, please call me (502)-921-3989.  As a local expert, I will be able to make sure you get the most out of your real estate transaction. 

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email

Louisville Real Estate Market Report for Area 8 (40223, 40243, 40245)

This report analyzes property sales trends for Louisville homes over the last few months and versus the same time period last year.  The report includes number of Louisville homes sold, average listing price, average sales price, days on market (DOM), and current inventory as well as analysis for buyers and sellers.

Area 8 of the Louisville MLS covers homes for sale in Douglass Hills, Hurstbourne, Middletown as well as areas outside of the Gene Snyder expressway.  Zipcodes for this area include 40223, 40243, and 40245.  In addition to those already mentioned, some of the larger subdivisions in this area are Lake Forest, Locust Creek, Owl Creek and Polo Fields

See Also: Louisville Real Estate Map

Search for Louisville Homes

0 comments • Erik Hitzelberger, --Louisville-Bullitt County Real Estate • June 25 2009 11:22PM

Little Spring Farm

As this is a relatively new development (started in 2002), the all-brick homes in Little Spring Farm feature open floor plans and modern amenities.  Hardwood floors, granite counter tops, trey and vaulted ceilings and stainless  appliances are all common.  As are jacuzzi tubs with separate showers, dual air-conditioning units, 2-3 car-garages and more.  Multi-piece crown-moldings, wainscoting, and custom hardware add the details to complete these gorgeous homes. 

Little Spring Farm homes are dream homes.  As such, people tend to move in and stay.  While the neighborhood is still expanding (ultimately 500 homes are planned), few resale homes come onto the market.  If you want to buy in this neighborhood, be prepared to act quickly when a home does become available.

Little Spring Farm homes typically start in the low $300,000s and range to $450,000. 

Search for Little Spring Farm Homes

Little Spring Farm Neighborhood Info

This eastern Louisville subdivision has plenty to offer for those who enjoy the outdoors.  The clubhouse features a huge pool as well as a kiddie pool and tennis courts are located nearby.  Little Spring Farm also has walking trails and park areas to play, picnic, etc.  Of course, the streets are lined with sidewalks, so if you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll in the evening, you can do so safely.

Schools

Students who live in Little Spring Farm and attend Jefferson County Public Schools are in Cluster 4.  Reside schools include

• Bates Elementary School
• Newburg Middle School
• Fern Creek Traditional High School

Location

Little Spring Farm is located off of Bardstown Road just inside the Louisville / Jefferson County border with Bullitt County.  As such it is convenient to the Gene Snyder (I-265) as well as the Fern Creek area.

Nearby Louisville Homes

• Glenmary
• Oakland Hills
  
• Wingate Meadows
  

Click the link to search for Little Spring Farm Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Little Spring Farm in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

When you are ready to buy or sell a Little Spring Farm home, please call me (502)-921-3989.  As a local expert, I will be able to make sure you get the most out of your real estate transaction. 

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email

Lake Forest

There are luxury homes in Louisville and then there are LUXURY Homes in Louisville.  Both can be found in Lake Forest.  This sprawling 2000-acre subdivision has houses with Living Areas ranging from 2000 square feet to over 11,500 square feet.  Of course, it isn't just size of the home that attracts potential buyers.  These homes are filled with high-end features and the subdivision offers more amenities than any other in Louisville.

Expectations change when you look for homes in Lake Forest.  Items such as granite counter tops, hardwood flooring, and jacuzzi tubs are practically standard.  So are fine craftsmanship and attention to detail.  Wet bars, massive Theater or Pool rooms, marble bathrooms, as well as built in fireplaces and bookcases are features that you just don't see in a lot of other neighborhoods.

Lake Forest is definitely a dream home neighborhood.  And, with over 1700 houses, yours certainly exists.  The only problem is people tend to move in and stay.  Only a few percent of the homes are on the market at any given time.

Lake Forest homes typically start in the low $300,000s and range to $2,000,000. 

Search for Lake Forest Homes

Lake Forest Neighborhood Info

One can hardly list all of the amenities offered in Lake Forest.  However, any attempt would have to start by noting the Lake Forest County Club has an Arnold Palmer designed golf course.  If that isn't enough, there are multiple pools, tennis courts, lakes, nature trails, volleyball pits, soccer fields, yoga classes and more.    

Of course, the HOA is both active and expansive.  Holiday celebrations include an Easter Egg Hunt, Fireworks for July 4th, a Halloween party, Christmas at the Lodge with Santa, and a huge New Year's Eve extravaganza.  In addition, there are bourbon and wine tasting events, comedy clubs, social clubs, swim teams, teen activities, etc.  And if your 10,000 SQFT home is insufficient to hold all of your guests, you can rent the Lodge for a very reasonable price.

Did I mention the Arnold Palmer golf course?

The HOA fee is under $100 / month.

Schools

Students who live in Lake Forest and attend Jefferson County Public Schools are in Cluster 5.  Reside schools include

• Stopher Elementary School
• Crosby Middle School
• Eastern High School

Location

Lake Forest is just east of the Gene Snyder and runs between Shelbyville Road and Aiken Road.  This prime location has the benefit of being somewhat secluded yet only 5 minutes from the conveniences of Middletown. 

Nearby Louisville Homes

• Academy Ridge
• Beckley Station
• Copperfield
  
• Landis Lakes

Click the link to search for Lake Forest Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Lake Forest in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

When you are ready to buy or sell a Lake Forest home, please call me (502)-921-3989.  As a local expert, I will be able to make sure you get the most out of your real estate transaction. 

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

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 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email

Owl Creek

This eastern Louisville Neighborhood has virtually everything.  From stunning homes to an active home owner's association to a loaded Community Center, Owl Creek residents really have the best that neighborhood living offers.  Which, of course, explains why these Louisville homes are so sought after.   

Unlike many newer subdivisions, Owl Creek homes are pretty unique.  You will have a hard-time finding any two of these all-brick homes that are alike.  An additional benefit to the age (15-25 years) of the neighborhood is the mature landscaping.  You'll find great shade trees lining the streets as well as serving as focal points in backyards.

A lot of thought went into the aesthetic appeal of this subdivision.  Of course, the large brick entrance off of Dorsey Lane commands attention.  But, the gently winding roads and cul-de-sacs prevent you from seeing a long line of homes.  Plus, underground utilities with transformers in the back yards help hide any unsightly wires.

Owl Creek homes typically start in the low $300s and range to the mid $400s. 

Search for Louisville Homes

Owl Creek Neighborhood Info

In the community center you can find an Junior Olympic-sized pool, a full court basketball gym, a workout facility, tennis courts, a playground and more.  In fact, the community has a competitive swim team and men's basketball league.  If you just want to take a walk or ride a bike, the streets are lined with sidewalks for safety.

This eastern Louisville neighborhood has an active HOA promoting community involvement and events.  Events such as wine tastings, dine-in movies, outdoor concerts and a children's petting zoo are organized throughout the year.  In addition, the Owl Creek HOA has planned neighborhood celebrations at holidays (July 4th, Derby Day, Memorial Day, etc).  Finally, there are card-playing groups, dinner clubs, and book clubs.  Residents truly have no excuses for getting out and finding something they enjoy doing with others.

The HOA fee is under $100 / month and includes trash pickup.

Schools

Students who live in Owl Creek and attend Jefferson County Public Schools are in Cluster 5.  Reside schools include

• Middletown Elementary School
• Crosby Middle School
• Eastern High School

Location

Owl Creek is just west of Middletown and north of Douglass Hills.  As such, it is convenient to St Matthews, Middletown, Hurstbourne, and J-Town.  Residents truly have a huge selection of convenient dining and shopping locations.

Nearby Louisville Homes

• Willow Wood
• Douglass Hills
• Plainview
• Foxboro Manor
• Old Dorsey Place

Click the link to search for Owl Creek Homes.  When the search page opens, Click the Show Advanced Search CriteriaLink.  Select Owl Creek in the Subdivisions tab and then click on the Find House / Condo Listings button.   

When you are ready to buy or sell an Owl Creek home, please call me (502)-921-3989.  As a local expert, I will be able to make sure you get the most out of your real estate transaction. 

• Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters When Selling your Louisville Home
• How Do Buyer's Agents Get Paid
  

* * * * *

Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.

I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, and Brooks.  Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estate or to Search for Louisville Homes 

Get Updates in a Reader

 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email