Real Estate BUZZ: Year-End Push and Low Rates

In this installment of our new video series, Real Estate BUZZ, Darla explains why buyers should look to get in-contract on a home before the end of the year. Interest rates are still very low, especially compared to Darla's first rate in 1985! Take a look!

Things To Do In Central Ohio - September 2013

Summer is coming to a close and back-to-school fever is in the air. Continue to take advantage of the wonderful weather and the resources that Central Ohio has to keep you entertained. Here are some events going on in the area this month.

Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival

When: September 2, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Admission: Free

Head out to Northam Park for a day to celebrate the arts! The Arts Festival will showcase nearly 200 fine art and fine craft artists from all over the country. Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival is the best way to kick off the month!

Longaberger Heritage Days Fall Festival

When: September 7, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Admission: Free

This is one of Longaberger’s most anticipated events of the year. Weave your own basket at Heritage Day and participate in other family friends events. Additionally, you will be able to enjoy fall festival food, live music and entertainment, and of course win prizes and give-aways.

All-Horse Parade

When: September 8, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Admission: Free

Horses, ponies and wagons, Oh My! Head out to Delaware County Fair for the one and only horse parade experience. Bring the whole family and your neighbors to witness this once-in-a-year experience. You won’t be disappointed!

USA vs. Mexico 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

When: September 10, 8:00 p.m.

Admission: TBA

Soccer fans throughout Ohio: you don’t want to miss this one! Head out to Crew Stadium to cheer on the U.S. soccer team as they take on Mexico in this battle of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier.

Chalk The Block

When: September 28, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Admission: Free

This two-day event located at Easton Town Center is the perfect was to round out the month. Standby and watch as artists decorate the Town Square with unique and Colorful artwork that will be sure to leave you mesmerized.

Who says real estate is slow? Don't believe it! SOLD in 32 days!

This spectacular 3-bedroom hillside home is located on 6.16 acres, overlooking the Little Darby River in London, Ohio, next to a protected tree preserve. Inside, the meticulous seller has upgraded everything: the Great Room features fabulous Pella windows and doors, Tigerwood flooring throughout, and a stone-hearth fireplace that reaches to the top of the vaulted cedar ceiling. The kitchen offers glazed porcelain-tiled flooring, granite countertops, custom cabinetry, a custom work island, stainless-steel appliances, and on and on...   

With our dynamic marketing, I put this upper-priced home in-contract in only 32 DAYS! Even more importantly, my happy sellers received 96.2% of the listed price plus extended possession!  

Think you’ve got a home that’s hard to sell? The Aces and I love a challenge! Dial Darla!

Dial Darla at 614-395-1516 or email RealtorDarla@aol.com today!

Things To Do In Central Ohio - July 2013

There is plenty to do in Central Ohio this month no matter what you’re type of event you’re looking for. From the beginning to the end you will never find yourself with a shortage of activities for all ages. Here are a few events going on in Central Ohio this month.

Red, White And Boom!

When: July 3, 10:00 a.m. - Midnight, Fireworks at 10 p.m.

Admission: Free

Start the month out with a bang - literally - with this years Red, White & Boom! The festivities start early and go late; and it is the biggest and best celebration of Independence Day in the midwest. Head downtown to enjoy some great food, great live music and, of course, fireworks!

Columbus Crew vs. Portland Timbers FC with Flogging Molly Post-Game Concert

When: July 7, 5:00 p.m.

Admission: $23-$48

If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, this is it! Head down to the Crew Stadium and cheer on the Columbus Crew. Flogging Molly will perform a full set following the game against the Portland Timbers.

Mayor’s Twilight Ride

When: July 12, 6:30 p.m.

Admission: $25

Join Mayor Michael B. Coleman and other Columbus Public Health officials as they promote the benefits of active living. Riders have the choice of biking 10 or 25 miles and will walk away with the 2013 Twilight T-shirt.

Westerville Music and Art’s Festival

When: July 13, 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. and July 14, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Admission: $1

This is the perfect even for the whole family. Head out to Heritage Park and enjoy a variety of live music and hands on children’s activities. It is the perfect way to spend an evening exploring the fine culture of music and arts.

Columbus Symphony Picnic with the Pops: OSU Marching Band

When: July 26, 8:00 p.m.

Admission: $25

Head out to the Columbus Commons to celebrate the upcoming football season with the best damn band in the land. You won’t want to miss this tailgate party with a grand finale of fireworks to conclude the event.

Things To Do In Central, Ohio - June 2013

Looking for something to do in Central Ohio this month? Check out the upcoming events for June!

A La Carte Food Tours: A Tasting Tour Of German Village

When: June 1st [1PM - 4PM]

Where: German Village [Departs From Katzinger’s Deli]

Price: $35 – $45

What: This 3-hour tour of German Village is special because you’ll see and taste what makes this charming district unique. Experience German Village’s charming old world architecture, and feel the influence of its German heritage. Pop in and out of novel shops, and peek into jewel-like backyard gardens. The focal point of the tour is sampling authentic German Village restaurants. Here’s a sampling of tasting highlights: sampling the best of Katzinger’s deli sandwiches; seeing the original Max and Erma’s restaurant, its stained glass and tasting its signature tortilla soup; enjoying Schmidt’s Sausage Haus’ famous sausages and cream puffs; and a stop at the Fudge Haus. Walking distance is less than 10,000 steps. You’ll find it hard to believe that so many sights and tastes are packed in this small area.

Short North Arts District Gallery Hop

When: June 1st [4PM - 10PM]

Where: Short North Arts District [High Street From Goodale Blvd To Fifth Ave]

Price: FREE

What: The Short North is renowned for the buzz of Gallery Hop. The first Saturday of every month, thousands of visitors converge on the strip, the epicenter of the High Street Experience. They come to celebrate art and partake in an evening of sights, sounds, food, shopping, and cosmopolitan fun. Countless art experiences. District specials. Prize drawings. Ramped up entertainment. Unexpected surprises. Join us for an unforgettable experience.

The Memorial Tournament Presented By Nationwide

When: May 27th – June 2nd [8AM - 5PM]

Where: Muirfield Village Golf Club [5750 Memorial Dr, Dublin, OH 43017]

Price: $30 – $235

What: Watch the world’s best professional golfers at the Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide Insurance (official PGA TOUR event). Hosted by golf legend Jack Nicklaus at his own internationally acclaimed Muirfield Village Golf Club, the tournament is played each year in the conspicuous honor of greats of the game. As an invitational tournament, the Memorial attracts a top-ranked field and is rich in honor, tradition and excellence. Fans experience golf at its finest in this legendary venue.

Zoo Days At The Experience Columbus Visitor Center

 

When: June 7th [12PM - 1PM]

Where: Experience Columbus [277 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215]

Price: FREE

What: How often do you get to see and sometimes even pet exotic animals? The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will bring animals to visitor center during the lunch hour. It’s your chance to meet – and touch – zoo animals.

Parent’s Night Out

 

When: June 14th [8PM - Midnight]

Where: COSI [333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215]

Price: $20 For Singles, $35 For Couples

What: Parents from the City of Columbus and surrounding areas are invited to enjoy a night of fun while raising awareness of Central Ohio organizations that support and encourage family empowerment. Guests will dine on delicious food while enjoying an elegant night of fun and lively entertainment including dancing, world renowned jazz musician Charles Cooper, gift giveaways and more.

One Direction

 

When: June 18th [7:30PM]

Where: Nationwide Arena [200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215]

Price: $36.15 – $91.25

What: One Direction gained notoriety in 2010 after appearing on the X-Factor UK. Their global smash debut album, Up All Night, entered the charts at #1 in 14 countries and has been certified triple platinum in Ireland, double platinum in the UK & Australia, and platinum in New Zealand. One Direction made history as their debut album Up All Night entered the US Billboard 200 chart at #1 with over 176,000 copies sold making them the first British group ever to debut at #1 in the US with their debut album release. Their debut single “What Makes You Beautiful” has recently been certified platinum in the US for sales in excess of 1,000,000 units.

For more events in Central Ohio this month check out the Experience Columbus Website!

Highlight: Short North in Downtown Columbus, Ohio

If you live in or are familiar with Columbus, you have more than likely heard of the Short North. The Short North is a neighborhood downtown that is full of restaurants, shopping, parks, nightlife, and events. Short North is known for its monthly gallery hop, archways, hip and trendy vibe, and so much more. Where do the archways come from?In 1888, Columbus was known nationwide as “Arch City”. These arches illuminated the city as it celebrated the centennial of the creation of the Northwest Territory. Very cool! Did you know that the arches disappeared for nearly 100 years before they made a return? Now there are 17 arches along High Street that create a rainbow of colors highlighting the Short North area.
Goodale ParkThis park is the epicenter of most events that take place in the Short North like the popular ComFest which takes place in July.FUN FACT: Did you know this park was established in 1851 and once served as a Civil War military camp?Gallery HopThis is a popular event that takes place the first Saturday of every month. This is a chance to roam High Street, explore the new exhibits, purchase art, browse street vendors, and enjoy a relaxing night downtown.While you walk the streets look around and you will notice musicians, singers, dancers, stilt walkers, and even stage performers who all add to the Gallery Hop experience.
If you are interested in exploring the Short North, here is a map with a full list of all the restaurants and places to visit in the Short North.Have you been to the Short North? What's your favorite spot or thing to do?

Facts and details in this article were found at www.shortnorth.org

Things To Do in Central Ohio - March 2013

March 2nd: A La Carte Food Tours: Sundaes in Columbus: A Tour Starring ice Cream

Time: 1:00PM - 4:00PM
Place: Departs From United Dairy Farmers Store [7083 State Route 3, Westerville, OH 43082]

What: This 3-hour food tour takes you from cow to cone! We'll learn how to distinguish among different types of "frozen confections." At my favorite United Dairy Farmers Store, you'll start out by learning about the Ohio milk industry and how dairy stores changed the market. You'll learn techniques for appreciating ice cream flavor, consistency, and texture as you sample and compare commodity and high-quality ice creams. At Charlotte and Olivia's Sublime Ice Cream, you'll explore artisan, small-batch ice cream creation as you peek into the production area of a new ice cream purveyor. You'll taste exotic flavors and learn about ice cream flavor creation and optimization.

For more information click here.

March 2nd: Short North Arts District Gallery Hop

Time: 4PM - 10PM
Place: Short North Arts District [North High Street from Goodale Blvd to 5th Ave]
Price: Free
What: The first Saturday of every month, thousands of visitors converge on the strip, the epicenter of the High Street Experience. They come to celebrate art and partake in an evening of sights, sounds, food, shopping, and cosmopolitan fun. Countless art experiences. District specials. Prize drawings. Ramped up entertainment. Unexpected surprises. Join us for an unforgettable experience.

For more information visit the Short North website.

March 10th: Baby Bonanza And Kid’s Expo

Time: 10 AM - 4 PM
Place: Aladdin Shrine Center [3850 Stelzer Rd, Columbus, OH 43219]
Price: $5 Adults, $4 Grandparents
What: The Baby Bonanza and Kid's Expo is Central Ohio's premier maternity, baby and child expo! This one-day event has everything for Mom, Dad, baby, and child all under one roof! If you are an expecting parent, have children at home, or are a grandparent, aunt, uncle or friend, then you don't want to miss this expo! Expect to find the latest products for mommy, baby and child, valuable information on a variety of health and educational organizations, and entertainment for the whole family! Other features include educational seminars presented by area professionals, the very popular diaper derby baby races; a fun competition for non-walking babies, play areas for the kids, fashion show, a Mommy Relaxation Station and Dads - we haven't forgotten about you! Enter the Dad's Challenge, a crazy stroller and diaper changing obstacle course just for Dads and Dads-to-be and win fantastic prizes!

For more information click here.

March 17th: St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Time: Parade Begins at 11:30 AM
Place: Throughout Downtown Columbus [Nationwide Blvd & John H McConnel Blvd]
Price: Free

What: Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Columbus with this fun, annual parade. The parade will step off at 11:30 a.m. at Nationwide Blvd. and John H. McConnel Blvd. and proceed east on Nationwide Blvd. to High St., south on High St. to Broad St., west on Broad St. to Veterans Memorial for the Shamrock Club's Annual Irish Family Reunion.

 

For more information click here.

March 22nd-23rd: 2013 Memories Scrapbooking Expo

Time: Friday-Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM
Place: Ohio Expo Center [717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211]
Price: $10 - $15
What: The 2013 Memories Scrapbooking expo is open to the public and is the premier expo to attend classes and purchase all of the latest products in scrapbooking, stamping, card making, paper crafting and much more. We also offer an after-hours crop party by reservation only.

 

For more information click here.

For more information on upcoming events in Central Ohio this month visit the Experience Columbus website!

Spring Maintenance Checklist

As you go about your annual spring cleaning rituals, take a few additional steps to save money on energy bills, improve your home’s appearance and ward off big-ticket repairs later.

Here are 10 things for you to help prepare your home for warmer months and keep it in top shape...

1. Inspect the AC: For about $75 to $200, a technician will tune up your cooling system and make sure you don’t spend the first hot weekend of the year with an out-of-commission air conditioner. Dirty filters make your air conditioner work harder, increasing energy costs and possibly damaging your equipment. Check them monthly and replace them as needed!
2. Clean Out The Gutters: Gutter cleaning generally costs $90 to $225 for a 2,000 square-foot home.
3. Repair Your Roof: An easy way to inspect the roof to find damage is to use a pair of binoculars. If need be, hire a handyman or a roofer to repair any missing shingles or other damages. Make sure to clean out roof drains to avoid damaging the roof and causing leaks.
4. Pressure Wash Your Home: Clean your home’s exterior to remove accumulated dirt, mold and stains from the siding, deck, sidewalks, driveway, garage floor, fences, and lawn furniture. You can rent a pressure washer or hire someone to help.
5. Wash The Windows
6. Prepare To Mow: A dull lawn mower blade doesn’t slice, but instead tears grass leaving it vulnerable to disease, sun damage, and insects. A blade typically needs sharpening once or twice a year, or more often depending on how big your yard is.
7. Lose The Lint: Make sure to clean your clothes dryer’s lint trap before every use. A clogged vent can reduce your dryer’s efficiency and create a fire hazard.
8. Put The Temperature on Autopilot: For an initial investment of $50 to $150 dollars for a programmable thermostat, you can save about $180 annually on cooling and heating bills. Set the hold feature for a constant, efficient temperature when you're away for the weekend or on vacation.
9. Caulk The Cracks: If the gap around a door or a window is wider than a nickel, you need to reapply exterior caulk. Add weatherstripping around doors, making sure that you cant see any daylight from the inside of your home.
10. Repair Sidewalks and Driveways: Fix any breakdown in concrete or asphalt before it worsens. You can patch or fill surface cracks, chips or flaking concrete yourself using cement repair products. For deeper cracks, call a professional. To increase the longevity of your driveway, have asphalt resealed every two to five years, depending on climate and wear patterns. Have concrete resealed every one to three years.

For more tips to prepare your home for spring click here.

If you are looking to jump into the housing market this year, Dial Darla!

Darla Luebbe
The Real Estate Aces
Office: 614-431-1005
www.RealEstateAces.com
RealtoDarla@aol.com
Keller Williams Capital Partners

Walkable Cities in Central Ohio- Westerville Ohio

Westerville, Ohio is located on the Northeast side of Central Ohio with...

• High scoring School District
• Lots of Restaurants, Parks, Shopping
• Easy Commutes
• Mature Neighborhoods
• and more!

This city is considered a Very Walkable Area, 
scoring an 89 out of 100!

What is a Walk Score?

A walk score measure how easy it is to live a car-lite lifestyle. Based on the distance to amenities in each category.

Why is it important to have a good Walk Score?

When choosing your neighborhood or city, keep in mind the resale qualities of not only the house but the location. After all, when buying or selling a home location is always a huge factor. If you are moving into a city that has a high Walk Score, use it to market your home! Having a bad Walk Score is not the end of the world. Some buyers want to live a little further out from the city and away from all the fuss and traffic.

The Breakdown...


Westerville Fun Facts...

• Westerville was founded in 1810 and named after the Dutch family Westervelt.
• Otterbein University was named after Philip William Otterbein who founded the Church of the United Brethren Christ
• Population in 1856, the year Westerville was platted, was 275
• From 1859 to 1995 Westerville was a “Dry City”
• “Uptown Westerville” is full of locally owned shops and restaurants
• Ranked #15 on Money Magazines list of Top 100 Best Places to Live in 2009 and #46 in 2007

If you are looking to jump into the housing market this year, Dial Darla!

Darla Luebbe

The Real Estate Aces

Office: 614-431-1005

www.RealEstateAces.com

RealtoDarla@aol.com
Keller Williams Capital Partners

Housing Market Predictions for 2013

Great news! Homes sales towards the end of 2012 beat expectations. According to an article from NBC News....

• The sale of homes priced over $750,000 jumped 50% from a year ago
• Sales of lowest-end homes (largely distressed) fell 4%
• Supply of homes nationally is at its lowest level in 7 years, 4.8 months worth at the current sales price

(Stats from the National Association of Realtors)

All of the good news does not stop there. The national median home price also went up 10.1% since November 2011 to $180,600.

One key factor that affects the real estate market is supply and demand. With years of distressed properties dominating the market the supply has been overpowering the real estate market in some areas of Central Ohio. However, some areas of Central Ohio were not negatively affected by the turn of the housing market over the past few years.

“The risks around our forecast of a 5% increase in house prices next year are on the upside,” notes Paul Diggle of Capital Economics.

Predictions for 2013...

• Distressed Property Sales with continue to decline due to fewer delinquent loans
• Could possibly see another surge in foreclosures now that banks are ramping up foreclosures of long-delayed delinquent loans

“With the homebuyer affordability index near multi-decade highs combined with decent job creation at the same time renting has gotten more expensive --all lead to a continued improvement in sale,” writes Peter Boockvar of Miller Tabak.

“Sales are still 30% below the bubble highs and are still  where they were in 1998, both pointing to the degree of possible improvement ahead but also evidence of the damage that was done where historically the pace of recovery takes time." Says Boockvar.

In 2013 we should see some changes for the better. Over the past few years we have been seeing a slow movement towards a better housing market in all Central Ohio areas.

If you are looking to jump into the housing market this year, Dial Darla!

Office: 614-431-1005

www.RealEstateAces.com

RealtoDarla@aol.com

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