Louisville Real Estate News

Three years ago the Kentucky legislature passed a law banning convicted sex offenders from living within 1000 feet of schools, playgrounds, and day care centers.  Today, the Supreme Court threw out that legislation by a 5-2 vote.  According to the AP, the justices ruled, "the law is punitive because lawmakers applied it retroactively to sex offenders convicted before the restrictions were imposed."

As a parent, the possibility of a sexual predator harming one of my children is mind-numbingly terrifying.  It is part of the reason I do not use their names in public settings online.  However, I have a hard time believing this law had any real benefit with regards to protecting children.  Kids run and play everywhere.  If an offender is going to repeat, the location of his/her residence in relation to a school is of little consequence.

Despite the fact that Louisville is the 7th Safest City (pop 500,000+) there are still registered sex offenders in living in every zip code.  If you are concerned and can stomach the results, here is the Kentucky Sex Offender Registry.

See Also: Everything you want to know about Louisville Homes that I can't tell you.

Photo courtesy of Mara66 on flickr.

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliancein 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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The St James Court Art Show begins Friday Oct 2^nd and will continue through Sunday October 4^th.  This year marks the 53^rd time that artists have gathered for the annual event that was voted Best Art Show in the Nation during 3 of the last 6 years. 

This year, over 750 artists from throughout North America will be displaying their works for an expected 300,000 patrons.  In fact, more people come to Louisville for this event than for the Kentucky Derby.  Categories include Clay, Glass, Leather, Jewelry, Metal, Mixed Media 3D, Photography, Sculpture, Wood, and several others.

The show is held in the heart of Old Louisville.  Booths will be setup in St James Court as well as along Third St, Fourth St, and Magnolia Ave.  Official participants will be proudly displaying the 2009 Art Show Exhibitor Booth Cards and wearing similar buttons.  Be aware that some homeowners allow non-participants to setup in their yards around the event.

Old Louisville neighborhood associations use proceeds from the show for the benefit of the local community.  Beautification and restoration projects are completed as well as other philanthropic endeavors.

Hours: 

• Fri - 10a-6p
• Sat - 10a-6p
• Sun - 10a-5p

For more information, go to http://www.stjamescourtartshow.com

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliancein 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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Things to do in Louisville

Tired of sitting at home?

Looking for something different or unique to do in Louisville?

Pick one or two events from this list and go have some fun!

F.A.T. Friday Trolley Hop

When: September 25

Where: Frankfort Avenue

What: A tour of dozens of galleries in the Frankfort Avenue art district. The event takes participants to several different art galleries, retail shops, and dining establishments located on Frankfort, Mellwood, and Story Avenues.

Louisville Irish Fest

When: September 25-27

Where: Bellarmine University

What: The Louisville Irish Fest is a celebration of Irish culture and heritage, featuring traditional Italian food, music, dancing, and, of course, beer.

The Bluegrass Balloon Festival

When: September 25-27

Where: Bowman Field

What: The Bluegrass Balloon Festival is Kentucky's largest hot air balloon race, even bigger than the Kentucky Derby Festival Balloon race. There are also a ton of free events and attractions for adults and children, including an art festival, balloon glow, kid's fun zone, beer and wine garden, live music, and an automobile and airplane show.

Captain's Quarters Regatta and Art Show

When: September 26-27

Where: Captain's Quarters Restaurant

What: Pull up your anchor and sail over to Captain's Quarters Restaurant at the end of September for the Captain's Quarters Regatta and Art Show. This event attracts more than 2000 people each year, including individuals from as many as four states and generally more than 200 artists.

Fall Antiques Market

When: September 27

Where: Locust Grove

What: The annual Fall Antiques Market brings professional antiques dealers from the South and Midwest to Louisville where they sell and display their products on the Locust Grove lawn. Though the show features primarily American country antiques, formal furniture, jewelry, and silverware will also be up for sale.

Taste of Louisville

When: September 29

Where: Crown Plaza Hotel

What: A Tasting Event sponsered by the Kentucky Restaurant Association.  Dozens of area restaurants and beverage producers will be on hand to show off their finest food and drink.

Waterfront Wednesday

When: September 30

Where: Waterfront Park

What: Waterfront Wednesdays are free concerts at Waterfront Park sponsored by 91.9 WFPK.

---Photo courtesy of The Pug Father on flickr

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliancein 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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Louisville is 20th Best Place to Retire

Citing the addition of bike lanes on city streets, a thriving arts district, and a plethora of things to do downtown and by the river, Money Magazine ranked Louisville Kentucky in their Top 25 Best Places to Retire.  Rating criteria included housing affordability, 'bang for your buck',  and local ammenities.  Based on these requirements, it is obvious why Louisville is on the list. 

With average Louisville home prices hovering just over $150,000, residents can definitely focus more of their money on enjoying amenities the city has to offer.  Among the locations of interest were Louisville Slugger Field, the Muhammad Ali Museum, the Kentucky Museum of Art & Craft as well as  the 85-acre Louisville Waterfront Park.  For those unfamiliar with the city, Louisville also offers dozens of parks with biking and walking trails, several challenging private & municipal golf courses, and an abundance of shopping.  If you like to travel, Louisville airport is conveniently located at the Watterson Expressway and I-65. 

Considering relocating to Louisville?  Whether you are looking for a retirement home, just entering the workforce or somewhere in between, call (502-921-3989) or email me and I'll be glad to help.

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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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This month's edition of Louisville Magazine was packaged with a spectacular EATS guide.  While I haven't had time to digest all of the restaurant info, one of the items I was most thrilled to see was the "Taste Calendar."  Louisville Tasting Events are generally hosted by charities and feature amazing food and drink from a wide-variety of local restaurants, cafes, breweries, wineries, and distilleries.  The fact that an event benefits a worthy cause is icing on the cake. 

My wife and I attended our first Taste of Derby Festival earlier this year and had a great time.  Since, then we've either missed or have been unable to attend other similar events.  However, now that I have this calendar, my attendence rate should skyrocket.  

If you enjoy eating and drinking (who doesn't?) make sure to add these dates to your list of must-do things.  For more information, visit the website or call the number under the event. I hope to see you there!

Taste of Louisville –Sept 29, 2009-Crown Plaza Hotel

KY Restaurant Association

www.kyra.org

 A Tasteful Affair – Oct 5, 2009 – Jefferson Club

 Sister Cities of Louisville

 www.sclou.org

 Signature Chefs Auction of Louisville – Nov 5, 2009 – Galt House

 March of Dimes

 www.marchofdimes.com/kentucky

 Desserts First – Jan, 2010 – Louisville Downtown Marriot

 Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana

 www.kyanags.org

   Chocolate Dreams – Feb 22, 2010 – Churchill Downs

 GuardiaCare Services

 www.guardiacare.org

 Sushi in the City – Mar 2010

Family Scholar House

www.familyscholarhouse.org

Taste of Derby Festival – Apr 20, 2010 – Louisville Slugger Field

Dare to Care Food Bank

www.daretocare.org

Taste of Oaks – April 29, 2010

Easter Seals of Louisville

502-584-9781

Taste of Frankfort Avenue – June 27, 2010

Clifton Center

www.cliftoncenter.org

Best of Louisville Bash – July 22, 2010 – Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center

Louisville Magazine and MS Society

www.nationalmssociety.org

Tasting Extravaganza – Aug 24, 2010 – The Olmstead

KY and IN Stroke Association

www.strokekyin.org

See Also: Taste of Derby is an Annual Must-Do Event

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliancein 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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My friend, Kim Daughtery mentioned she might be coming to Louisville.  Now Kim likes to shop so I wasn't surprised when she asked, "If I wanted to buy a unique gift representing Louisville where would I go?"  Without hesitation, I answered, "Two Chicks & Co."  This is far and away my wife's favorite store for all things Kentucky, Louisville, Derby, etc.  

I've seen bag after Pink and Green bag come through the door to our house, but I had never actually been in Two Chicks until a few days ago.  (For one, I do not like to shop and two, it always kinda seemed like a chick place:).  Since I gave this recommendation to Kim, I decided I better go and check it out.  Plus, with an upcoming anniversary, I could kill 2 birds with one stone.  Surely they would have something we didn't already own. 

When I went into the store, I could easily see why my wife was such a fan.  She loves all things Fleur de lis and Two Chicks has a lot of Fleur de lis things.  From bottle openers to barware to platters to throw pillows, they had quite a lot to choose from.  I spent several minutes browsing before finding a few things to add to her collection.  The staff (particularly Barabara) was very helpful and I even got a recommendation or two from another customer. 

Rather than trying to explain, the multitude of unique gifts that Two Chicks & Co, offers, I'll share a few pictures....

Despite the fact, it was closing time on Saturday, there were probably 10 other people in the store with me.  The ladies behind the counter never told anyone it was time to go,etc.  Instead they stepped out to offer assistance, made recommendations, wrappped gifts, and wished everyone a good day.

Perhaps the best part, was they wrapped everything and placed it in a gift bag.  (I'm a huge fan of anyplace that simplifies my life).  So, my only remaining challenge was getting the pink and green bag into the house and stored for a few days.

If you are looking for unique gifts featuring

• Kentucky
• Louisville
• Kentucky Derby
• University of Louisville
• University of Kentucky

you really should check out Two Chicks. 

Two Chicks & Co

12121 Shelbyville Road

Louisville, KY 40243

502-254-0400

TwoChicksAndCompany

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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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Marks Feed Store is one of my favorite places to eat.  Being pre-disposed to all things barbecue, Mark's is a natural fit.  However, more than any other place, Mark's seems to have a near perfect combination of great food, atmosphere, and affordability.  It is one of the few places I have eaten at more than once in a single day and truly enjoyed each time.   

As with any restaurant, good food is the key to success.  Mark's specializes in barbecue and that's about all they do.  Since they don't worry about trying to be all things to all people, they can really focus on consistent, high quality, great-tasting barbecue.  Perhaps this is why they also show a great deal of consistency when it comes to winning Best of Louisville Awards.  

In addition to excellent food, Mark's offers a great atmosphere.  The relaxed dining room is well-lit and filled with conversations yet never gets too loud.  At virtually any time, you will people of all ages relaxing and enjoying a meal with friends and family.  

As you can see by the menu, Mark's is very affordable.  It is easy for a family of 4 to eat for under $30 and even easier for on Tuesdays when kids eat free.  I have ordered the $24.99 family pack to go several times and have been a hero with the family on each occasion.

Mark's Feed Store has 4 Louisville-area locations.  Regardless of where you live in Louisville, you should make the time to check out Marks'.

East Louisville

11422 Shelbyville Road
Louisville, KY 40243
(502) 244-0140

West Louisville

10316 Dixie Hwy
Louisville, KY 40272
(502) 933-7707

Highlands

1514 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40205
(502) 458-1570

Indiana

3827 Charlestown Road
New Albany, IN  47150
812-949-RIBS (7427)

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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed real estate agent 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: Jeffersontown (J-Town), Okolona, Fern Creek, 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.   

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 

Get Updates in a Reader

 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email

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 

Get Updates in a Reader

 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email

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 

Get Updates in a Reader

 Get Louisville Real Estate News by Email