What a week!!!

What a Week of Previews!!!

This has been a great week in real estate around town. I've seen some absolutely breathtaking new listings, particularly, these two neew listings in Webster Groves and Ladue.

#3 Daniel was a real treat - a total renovation with several additions over the years. I loved the house, which wasn't over-the-top in any way, but was still extremely comfortable in every way. It's a home for "living in", which, while it should seem obvious, isn't always the case.

The other show stopper was 16 Algonquin Lane in Webster Groves. This might be the premier lane in 63119 and the house is smashing. Listed as over 3,500 sq. ft., this one is has just the right amount of everything. I'm not convinced that the price is right, but for the right buyer, it's a wonderfully stately home with an incredible view over Algonquin Country Club.

Click on the address links to see more photos of these properties. They're worth it!

"Father of the Bride"

I think there is a reason everybody seems to love this style of home. It's warm, inviting and so comfortable you just want to stay. I had the privilege of helping this family move into this great neighborhood back in 2005. They have only grown more attached to their Webster roots during their time on Planthurst Rd.

Center hall Colonials never seem to go out of style. I remember learning about how desirable they were one day when I called home to say hello to mywife around lunch time. I mentioned the new listing on the market right around the corner from the home we'd only just bought..."that Colonial you like."

She didn't say anything for about 10 seconds. Then she said, "We have to buy it." I thought she was joking, but this March will make 7 years. I guess she wasn't.

Moral of the story: Calling home to say hi around lunch time is ALWAYS a good idea.

Webster Hills UMC Pumpkin Patch

This is a really fun, simple "Pumpkin Patch" that the very friendly folks at Webster Hills do every October. The Patch is set up at the corner of Berry Rd. and Lockwood, right across from the golf course at Westborough C.C. It's an easy walk for many!!

They have family activities set up for each Saturday from Oct. 10-24, including Bounce Houses, games, storytelling, facepainting and a great BBQ. The hours are 10am-8pm, daily Oct. 4-31.

The "Best Quality" New Construction, $500,000-1 Million

So I've been reviewing what's out there in WKG for buyers wanting a new house in an old neighborhood. For the sake of this discussion, a few points to mention.

1. I'm looking at the house itself, not so much lot, location or overall value of the property. Those things are worth talking about, but I get a lot of questions about what new construction is well-built and what isn't.



2. Builders tend to "Design, Sell, Build, Repeat". They generally use the same sub-contractors over and over, so quality, as it relates to builders, is what it is...consistent.



3. I'm considering "New Construction" to be less than 2 years old. Around WKG, that's "new enough" for most buyers.

Here's my short list of good stuff:

136 Reavis Place in Webster Groves. Classic interior finishes and everything (except the basement) is finished. True craftsmanship and I LOVE screened in porches! My wife would kill for this 3rd floor.

107 Morningside in Kirkwood. I know, I know, it's 2 doors from Lindbergh Blvd., but this is about the house, remember? Hayden Homes built this one in 2007 and it's a very stylish home. Lots of cool features, unless you're morally opposed to the exterior color!

802 Oakway Place in Glendale. Our office has this one listed and this builder, Scharf Custom Homes, has completed many infill projects around town. It's the "not-so little" stuff that sets this one apart from the boxey, sea of "siding-carpet-drywall" homes that our buyers consistently reject.

This photo shows at least 5 high quality features: wood treads on the steps, wainscoating up the staircase, arched openings fully trimmed, crown in the foyer, etc.

6th Annual Ivory Crockett Run 4 Webster - Oct. 3

This fun event is named for Ivory Crockett, who went to Webster Groves High School from 1962-1966. For a period of time beginning in 1974, he was "The World's Fastest Man" (our very own Usain Bolt!), owning the world's record for covering the 100-yard dash in 9 seconds.

My wife and I love to be a part of local races like this in Webster, Kirkwood and Glendale (WKG), either by sponsoring these great events financially, volunteering (which I don't do nearly enough), or actually running in them. It's really fun to race through the neighborhoods and see our friends and neighbors who love to run as much as we do. I especially like that this event offers a 110-yard dash for kids under 12.

Last year, more than 500 people participated in the race and this year should be another great turnout. Click on the title of the blog post to be connected to the registration information, or contact the Sports Medicine and Training Center at 314-961-3787!