Monday, April 07, 2014
April Is earthquake Preparedness Month
April is Earthquake Preparedness Month. Be Prepared.
Earthquakes can occur throughout the United States including the Midwest. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the costs of damage to real estate from earthquakes is approximately $4.4 billion a year. The statistics about earthquake activity recorded by the U.S. Geological Survey shows that the United States experiences over 2000 earthquakes every year. Earthquake preparedness is important for everyone, including residents of St. Louis. Geologists predict that a major earthquake will hit the Midwest before the year 2035.
Not all earthquakes cause damage. Some earthquakes pass without being detected by the local residents. Earthquake research organizations such as the St. Louis University Earthquake Center record seismic....Read Entire Article Here...
Read Entire Article Here
Wednesday, April 02, 2014
PiggyBack Loans In Arnold, MO Stage A Comeback
Piggy Back Loans Make A Comeback In Arnold,MO.
It’s another aftereffect of the rise in housing prices: piggyback loans in Arnold, MO., are making a comeback. According to a recent American Bankers Associations Report, the number of piggyback loans originated across the nation more than doubled within the past year.
A piggyback loan involves taking out two mortgages simultaneously, with a home equity loan (aka “second mortgage”) ‘piggybacking’ on a first mortgage. In Arnold, MO., home purchases, piggyback loans typically come into play when the buyer is unable to provide a full 20% deposit. Normally this would necessitate the buyer having to take out private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can be pricey. By going with the piggyback loan alternative, the Loan to Value (LTV) ratio can be reduced to less than 80%, the threshold below which PMI requirements vanish.
A standard piggy back loan is structured as a “80-10-10”—meaning that 80% of the purchase price comes from the first mortgage, the next 10% from the second loan, and the final 10%, the deposit.
One major downside to piggybacking is cost. The interest rates charged on piggyback loans are significantly higher than those for first mortgages, so it may prove less expensive to pay for PMI for a short period of time. This is more likely in a rising Real Estate market, since the Loan to Value can shrink below 80% before long. Another problem can crop up when it comes time to refinance. In order to refinance, the second mortgage lender has to agree to remain in a subordinate position. This agreement (known as re-subordination) may, in some cases, be hard to reach. Lastly, homeowners with a piggyback loan are unlikely to be able to take out a third loan should they want to access their home equity. Nowadays, thirds are rarely granted.
Between 2000 and 2006, it made a lot of sense to take out a piggyback loan on a Real Estate purchase. The interest on piggyback loans was tax-deductible, while mortgage insurance premiums were not. When property prices were rising as sharply as they were between 2000 and 2006, lenders also considered piggyback loans a good bet because the growth provided ample equity ‘cushion.’ But when real estate prices dropped in 2007, piggyback loans fell out of favor. By 2010, the percentage of piggyback loans fell to just 1.7%.
Today, with house prices on the rise, lenders are again growing more comfortable granting Arnold, MO., piggyback loans—but with a bit more caution. Lenders usually ask for a FICO score of at least 700 and a debt-to-income ratio that’s below 43%. Increasingly, they want to see that a borrower has cash reserves in case of unforeseen circumstances.
If you are considering a piggyback loan in Arnold, MO., this spring, you will want to run the numbers to see if it’s the solution that makes the most sense. In some circumstances, it can be the best way to get into a home you can afford even though you can’t furnish a full 20% deposit. Call 314 845-3400 today to discuss how today’s Real Estate market meshes with your needs! Or visit us at Piggy Back Loans In Arnold,MO.
The Helderle Team 2014 © All Rights Reserved
A piggyback loan involves taking out two mortgages simultaneously, with a home equity loan (aka “second mortgage”) ‘piggybacking’ on a first mortgage. In Arnold, MO., home purchases, piggyback loans typically come into play when the buyer is unable to provide a full 20% deposit. Normally this would necessitate the buyer having to take out private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can be pricey. By going with the piggyback loan alternative, the Loan to Value (LTV) ratio can be reduced to less than 80%, the threshold below which PMI requirements vanish.
A standard piggy back loan is structured as a “80-10-10”—meaning that 80% of the purchase price comes from the first mortgage, the next 10% from the second loan, and the final 10%, the deposit.
One major downside to piggybacking is cost. The interest rates charged on piggyback loans are significantly higher than those for first mortgages, so it may prove less expensive to pay for PMI for a short period of time. This is more likely in a rising Real Estate market, since the Loan to Value can shrink below 80% before long. Another problem can crop up when it comes time to refinance. In order to refinance, the second mortgage lender has to agree to remain in a subordinate position. This agreement (known as re-subordination) may, in some cases, be hard to reach. Lastly, homeowners with a piggyback loan are unlikely to be able to take out a third loan should they want to access their home equity. Nowadays, thirds are rarely granted.
Between 2000 and 2006, it made a lot of sense to take out a piggyback loan on a Real Estate purchase. The interest on piggyback loans was tax-deductible, while mortgage insurance premiums were not. When property prices were rising as sharply as they were between 2000 and 2006, lenders also considered piggyback loans a good bet because the growth provided ample equity ‘cushion.’ But when real estate prices dropped in 2007, piggyback loans fell out of favor. By 2010, the percentage of piggyback loans fell to just 1.7%.
Today, with house prices on the rise, lenders are again growing more comfortable granting Arnold, MO., piggyback loans—but with a bit more caution. Lenders usually ask for a FICO score of at least 700 and a debt-to-income ratio that’s below 43%. Increasingly, they want to see that a borrower has cash reserves in case of unforeseen circumstances.
If you are considering a piggyback loan in Arnold, MO., this spring, you will want to run the numbers to see if it’s the solution that makes the most sense. In some circumstances, it can be the best way to get into a home you can afford even though you can’t furnish a full 20% deposit. Call 314 845-3400 today to discuss how today’s Real Estate market meshes with your needs! Or visit us at Piggy Back Loans In Arnold,MO.
The Helderle Team 2014 © All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Mortgage Relief Clock Ticking Away
Five years after the federal government bailed out more than 1 million struggling homeowners, many who got the relief may end up losing their homes after all.
Already, nearly 30 percent of those who qualified for relief have defaulted again. And roughly 800,000 borrowers who remain enrolled in the government’s flagship program will see their mortgage interest rates gradually rise starting this year — eventually increasing payments by more than $1,000 a month in some cases, according to a recent federal analysis.,,,,,,
Read Entire Story Here Mortgage Relief Clock Ticking Away
Already, nearly 30 percent of those who qualified for relief have defaulted again. And roughly 800,000 borrowers who remain enrolled in the government’s flagship program will see their mortgage interest rates gradually rise starting this year — eventually increasing payments by more than $1,000 a month in some cases, according to a recent federal analysis.,,,,,,
Read Entire Story Here Mortgage Relief Clock Ticking Away
Friday, February 28, 2014
Our Credit Scores And Their Importance
Do you know how important our credit scores are?
Most people do not realize how important a credit score is. Over the last ten years your credit score has been used to determine your ability to repay your credit, debt. Credit Score determines a lot of things including mortgage interest, consumer loans, insurance, credit cards and can even be instrumental................ READ MORE HERE
Monday, February 17, 2014
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Friday, February 07, 2014
5 Ways Getting A St Louis Mortgage Will Be Harder in 2014
5 Ways Getting a Mortgage Will Be Harder in 2014
By S. Jhoanna Robled of the New York News
It's going to be tougher to get a mortgage after January 10. That's the deadline for lenders to fully enact provisions first outlined in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act back in 2010, in the wake of the sub-prime mortgage crisis. Eager to prevent future housing meltdowns, legislators outlined formal requirements for borrowers seeking what are now called "qualified mortgages" (QMs), designed to cut the odds that loans will turn into financial stink-bombs. Many banks tightened standards shortly after the Lehman Brothers meltdown, but now they'll all be encouraged by law to be more careful. (Banks can still offer non-qualified mortgages that don't abide by these regulations, but those won't be protected from lawsuits brought by homeowners in default who claim they weren't properly vetted, which means such loans are likely to be much rarer.) "This is a game-changer," says Don Frommeyer, president of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.
Here are the new hoops:
1. Freelancers and the self-employed won't be able to get reduced-documentation loans anymore.
They used to be able to snag approval for mortgages based on gross income, often a higher figure than the net-income stated on tax filings. (People who own their own businesses usually have expenses they can deduct from the gross.) The paperwork was fairly abbreviated; the interest rates decent. Now, under the Ability-to-Repay provision, the self-employed (along with everybody else) will need to turn in at least two years' worth of tax and banking documentation, plus anything else banks ask for in order to vet credit-worthiness, says Melissa Cohn of Guaranteed Rate, which has a heavy portfolio of NYC-centric clients. Everyone will have to account for deposits made in amounts over $500, too. (That loan your roommate gave you to help pay the rent that one time? Hope she kept her canceled check so you can prove it came from her and not some sketchy cash transaction.)
2. Bye-bye, interest-only loans.
These are popular among New Yorkers who get paid partly by commission (like lots of Wall Streeters, who often want low monthly mortgage payments and pay down the principal come bonus time). Cohn says about 90 percent of lenders stopped giving interest-only loans after Lehman, but there were still many in the city who were willing to do so. Now borrowers — about 5 to 10 percent of Cohn's business — will just have to qualify for the comparatively higher monthlies that typical 30-year mortgages demand, save up for a bigger down payment, or try to find a non-QM loan
. 3. Fewer loans lasting longer than 30 years.
Yes, they do exist, and again, they help people maintain low monthly payments in a pricey city. Cohn says Astoria Federal, an active lender of 30-plus-year-long loans, nixed them a month ago to prep for Dodd-Frank's QM must-haves. Plenty others walked away from these types of loans long ago
4. Your monthly living expenses — mortgage, taxes, credit-card debt and other loans, and the like — can't account for more than 43 percent of your gross income.
Considering how expensive it is to live in New York, lenders once were allowed, depending on an applicant's credit, to push that number to 48 percent (even 50 percent, says one mortgage broker). Not anymore. Cohn says one client she's working with has $100,000 worth of deferred student loans. He's not due to start making payments anytime soon, but the banks will take them into account now, years before they come due. If you own a townhouse or a multi-family, they'll be looking at utility bills, too, says Guardhill Financial's Julie Teitel, who adds, "quite frankly, you probably shouldn't buy anyway if you're above 43 percent."
5. If you're getting an adjustable-rate mortgage, banks will be calculating whether you can pay monthlies at the fully indexed rate at application time.
Many banks adopted this strategy long ago, but it's solidifying come January 10. That applies even if payments aren't going to be recalculated for another three or five years. (Or you'll have to agree to a higher interest rate.)
For now, there are few, if any, workarounds. Eric Applebaum, president of the tristate-based Apple Mortgage, says a few of his lenders have informed him they'll still be in the non-QM game, but there aren't many of them, and they'll be deciding on an applicant-by-applicant basis. "We're convinced there'll be a new secondary market for non-QM loans," says Cohn. But that could take months, maybe more, and there won't be as many of those lenders. "If you want to borrow today, you're going to have to follow the rules," she says. On the other hand, appraiser Jonathan Miller says Dodd-Frank is simply cementing a world order that isn't all that new anymore. "I don't think this is going to be some sort of housing market slayer," he says. "It may make it harder for some to buy, but maybe they shouldn't be buying if [they're] that close to the wire."
Used with permission
By S. Jhoanna Robled of the New York News
It's going to be tougher to get a mortgage after January 10. That's the deadline for lenders to fully enact provisions first outlined in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act back in 2010, in the wake of the sub-prime mortgage crisis. Eager to prevent future housing meltdowns, legislators outlined formal requirements for borrowers seeking what are now called "qualified mortgages" (QMs), designed to cut the odds that loans will turn into financial stink-bombs. Many banks tightened standards shortly after the Lehman Brothers meltdown, but now they'll all be encouraged by law to be more careful. (Banks can still offer non-qualified mortgages that don't abide by these regulations, but those won't be protected from lawsuits brought by homeowners in default who claim they weren't properly vetted, which means such loans are likely to be much rarer.) "This is a game-changer," says Don Frommeyer, president of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.
Here are the new hoops:
1. Freelancers and the self-employed won't be able to get reduced-documentation loans anymore.
They used to be able to snag approval for mortgages based on gross income, often a higher figure than the net-income stated on tax filings. (People who own their own businesses usually have expenses they can deduct from the gross.) The paperwork was fairly abbreviated; the interest rates decent. Now, under the Ability-to-Repay provision, the self-employed (along with everybody else) will need to turn in at least two years' worth of tax and banking documentation, plus anything else banks ask for in order to vet credit-worthiness, says Melissa Cohn of Guaranteed Rate, which has a heavy portfolio of NYC-centric clients. Everyone will have to account for deposits made in amounts over $500, too. (That loan your roommate gave you to help pay the rent that one time? Hope she kept her canceled check so you can prove it came from her and not some sketchy cash transaction.)
These are popular among New Yorkers who get paid partly by commission (like lots of Wall Streeters, who often want low monthly mortgage payments and pay down the principal come bonus time). Cohn says about 90 percent of lenders stopped giving interest-only loans after Lehman, but there were still many in the city who were willing to do so. Now borrowers — about 5 to 10 percent of Cohn's business — will just have to qualify for the comparatively higher monthlies that typical 30-year mortgages demand, save up for a bigger down payment, or try to find a non-QM loan
. 3. Fewer loans lasting longer than 30 years.
Yes, they do exist, and again, they help people maintain low monthly payments in a pricey city. Cohn says Astoria Federal, an active lender of 30-plus-year-long loans, nixed them a month ago to prep for Dodd-Frank's QM must-haves. Plenty others walked away from these types of loans long ago
4. Your monthly living expenses — mortgage, taxes, credit-card debt and other loans, and the like — can't account for more than 43 percent of your gross income.
Considering how expensive it is to live in New York, lenders once were allowed, depending on an applicant's credit, to push that number to 48 percent (even 50 percent, says one mortgage broker). Not anymore. Cohn says one client she's working with has $100,000 worth of deferred student loans. He's not due to start making payments anytime soon, but the banks will take them into account now, years before they come due. If you own a townhouse or a multi-family, they'll be looking at utility bills, too, says Guardhill Financial's Julie Teitel, who adds, "quite frankly, you probably shouldn't buy anyway if you're above 43 percent."
5. If you're getting an adjustable-rate mortgage, banks will be calculating whether you can pay monthlies at the fully indexed rate at application time.
Many banks adopted this strategy long ago, but it's solidifying come January 10. That applies even if payments aren't going to be recalculated for another three or five years. (Or you'll have to agree to a higher interest rate.)
For now, there are few, if any, workarounds. Eric Applebaum, president of the tristate-based Apple Mortgage, says a few of his lenders have informed him they'll still be in the non-QM game, but there aren't many of them, and they'll be deciding on an applicant-by-applicant basis. "We're convinced there'll be a new secondary market for non-QM loans," says Cohn. But that could take months, maybe more, and there won't be as many of those lenders. "If you want to borrow today, you're going to have to follow the rules," she says. On the other hand, appraiser Jonathan Miller says Dodd-Frank is simply cementing a world order that isn't all that new anymore. "I don't think this is going to be some sort of housing market slayer," he says. "It may make it harder for some to buy, but maybe they shouldn't be buying if [they're] that close to the wire."
Used with permission
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Hardwood Flooring Trends
Hardwood Flooring Trends, a Touch of the Creative
(BPT)—The recovering U.S. housing market has led to increased demand for certain luxury items, including hardwood flooring. Exciting trends are influencing the marketplace and for today's consumers, there are more hardwood flooring options than ever before.
"Savvy consumers want variety and flexibility in their flooring choices," says Linda Jovanovich of the AMERICAN HARDWOOD ASSOCIATION "With American hardwood species running the gamut of color and because hardwood is a product that can adapt to many different decorating styles and decors, hardwood provides a degree of diversity, as well as long-term value, that cannot be matched by other flooring materials."
From the trend-watchers at independent market research firm, Market Insights Torcivia, and the National Wood Flooring Association, look at what's trending now.
A touch of the creative
* Using multiple wood species is very popular, typically using one species in the main field of the room, then introducing other contrasting species incorporated as a border or other subtle design elements in the room.
* Mixed media incorporates hardwood with other flooring options like stone, tile, carpet or even metal. This approach often helps to define different seating or functional areas within a large, open space.
* Installing wood floors, in a non-linear format, is increasingly popular as well. Custom parquet patterns can achieve this look but even traditional linear floors can accomplish the same goal by installing the linear pattern on a curve.
* Consumer preferences are gravitating toward darker species, like walnut, over the more traditional, medium-colored white and red oak. In many cases, however, existing oak floors are being refinished and stained to achieve this look without replacing the floor.
* Buyers are moving away from the traditional 2 1/4 inches strip floor to wider plank flooring, 3 inches and wider. Random width planks are also popular. This creates a very casual look, while utilizing more of the raw materials during the manufacturing process.
* Distressed flooring - hand-scraping the boards will achieve an antiqued look while, at the same time, hiding small imperfections that can appear in flooring over time, like small scratches or dents.-This distressed effect can also be achieved in the factory.
Stains and finishes
The National Wood Flooring Association also reports that flooring manufacturers are introducing new lines geared to satisfy the emerging trends toward gray stains and finishes - ranging from very subtle to very dark - and metallic finishes.>br> Metallic finishes incorporate softly shimmering metallic accents by embedding the metallic materials into the hardwood. The result is a pronounced grain that shimmers softly in contrast to the rest of the wood. It is difficult to predict if this trend will catch on long-term but it has become increasingly popular, particularly on the West Coast.
Get inspired
As the U.S. economy continues to recover, more and more consumers will enhance their living spaces with flooring, cabinetry and other luxury items made from American Hardwoods, the ultimate in value, versatility and style. Browse the photo gallery of the AMERICAN HARDWOOD ASSOCIATION for inspiration.
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2014. All rights reserved
(BPT)—The recovering U.S. housing market has led to increased demand for certain luxury items, including hardwood flooring. Exciting trends are influencing the marketplace and for today's consumers, there are more hardwood flooring options than ever before.
"Savvy consumers want variety and flexibility in their flooring choices," says Linda Jovanovich of the AMERICAN HARDWOOD ASSOCIATION "With American hardwood species running the gamut of color and because hardwood is a product that can adapt to many different decorating styles and decors, hardwood provides a degree of diversity, as well as long-term value, that cannot be matched by other flooring materials."
From the trend-watchers at independent market research firm, Market Insights Torcivia, and the National Wood Flooring Association, look at what's trending now.
A touch of the creative
* Using multiple wood species is very popular, typically using one species in the main field of the room, then introducing other contrasting species incorporated as a border or other subtle design elements in the room.
* Mixed media incorporates hardwood with other flooring options like stone, tile, carpet or even metal. This approach often helps to define different seating or functional areas within a large, open space.
* Installing wood floors, in a non-linear format, is increasingly popular as well. Custom parquet patterns can achieve this look but even traditional linear floors can accomplish the same goal by installing the linear pattern on a curve.
* Consumer preferences are gravitating toward darker species, like walnut, over the more traditional, medium-colored white and red oak. In many cases, however, existing oak floors are being refinished and stained to achieve this look without replacing the floor.
* Buyers are moving away from the traditional 2 1/4 inches strip floor to wider plank flooring, 3 inches and wider. Random width planks are also popular. This creates a very casual look, while utilizing more of the raw materials during the manufacturing process.
* Distressed flooring - hand-scraping the boards will achieve an antiqued look while, at the same time, hiding small imperfections that can appear in flooring over time, like small scratches or dents.-This distressed effect can also be achieved in the factory.
Stains and finishes
The National Wood Flooring Association also reports that flooring manufacturers are introducing new lines geared to satisfy the emerging trends toward gray stains and finishes - ranging from very subtle to very dark - and metallic finishes.>br> Metallic finishes incorporate softly shimmering metallic accents by embedding the metallic materials into the hardwood. The result is a pronounced grain that shimmers softly in contrast to the rest of the wood. It is difficult to predict if this trend will catch on long-term but it has become increasingly popular, particularly on the West Coast.
Get inspired
As the U.S. economy continues to recover, more and more consumers will enhance their living spaces with flooring, cabinetry and other luxury items made from American Hardwoods, the ultimate in value, versatility and style. Browse the photo gallery of the AMERICAN HARDWOOD ASSOCIATION for inspiration.
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2014. All rights reserved
Tuesday, January 07, 2014
Being Prepared For A St Louis Mo Weather Emergency
St. Louis, MO., has had some huge snow storms in the past. Currently St. Louis, Mo has an average of twelve inches on the ground with some areas reporting up to eighteen inches. Even if your area only gets minimal amounts of snow you should always be prepared. Here are a few suggestions that will increase your preparedness.
STOCK UP
Don't wait til the snow is hitting the ground, get to the grocery store and get plenty of food. Make sure you have the basics, Milk, Bread, Eggs, Coffee, Water, and any other food you may need for an extended snow holiday.
EQUIPMENT
You'll need to get your snow shovel out, check to make sure the handle isn't cracked or that the shovel part is not missing any bolts. If there are any concerns pick up a new one Find Snow Shovels Here. Rock Salt or Ice Melt should be another item if you don't have any on hand it can be picked up at most Grocery Stores, Home Improvement Centers or even Gas Stations. If you have concrete walks, steps or driveways, use only Ice Melt.
GEAR
Staying warm on cold snowy days is important. Hypothermia an Frostbite can only take minutes if your area is experiencing record cold temperatures like we are currently in St. Louis, MO. ABC News says unprotected skin can experience frostbite or hypothermia in minutes. You can read the ABC News Article Here You will need to wear a hat, gloves and boots at least. If you plan on being in the weather an extended amount of time invest in an insulated snow suit, snow boots and maybe even some long underwear. Layer your clothes to increase your level of insulation.
STAY UPDATED
Stayed tuned to a local TV or Radio station to keep updated on conditions. It is also suggested you have a crank style NOAA Radio in case of a power outage. The American Red Cross offers a hand crank radio that will provide AM/FM?NOAA and allows you to charge your cell phone with a USB cord
Being prepared in a weather emergency will insure you and your family peace of mind
The Helderle Team 2014 © All Rights Reserved
Thursday, January 02, 2014
Selling A Home In St. Louis,MO
Selling a Home in St. Louis, MO
There are plenty of people in St. Louis, Missouri who are attempting to sell their own home. That is great because a skilled and professional Realtor from the Helderle Team is there to assist people with selling their homes. They also are here to help people with purchasing a home in Saint Louis,which is great for people because buying or selling a home I St. Louis, MO., can be an overwhelming process.
Helping people sell a home means educating potential home buyers on how to buy a home. There are certain steps that a person will need to take prior to contacting a Remax Realtor in order to make a home purchase. The first thing you will need to do is to decide if you are able to afford a home in the first place. Banks will always access the risk of a loan applicant, which is why you need to make sure that your credit is in good standing prior to purchasing a home. Make sure that you pay down existing debt and settle anything that is in collections
The next thing to do is to figure out what kind of home will suit your needs. Some people have larger families and will therefore need a larger home. Then there are people who would prefer a yard for children to play in or for space for pets. Finally some people will need a garage in order to park their car or work on a project. It’s best to sit down and figure out what your lifestyle needs are because this will make it much easier to select a home when you are prepared to meet with the .St.Louis Realtor
Once you have figured out your budget, credit, and lifestyle needs you are ready to meet with the Realtor. It is the job of the St.Louis Realtor to provide you with options for a home. Prior to looking at any concerns, make sure that you voice your concerns or needs to the St.Louis Realtor because that will help narrow down the selection. At this point you will begin to see different homes in a variety of neighborhoods. Some homes will be nearer to public services such as a school or a park. Other homes will be near commercial sectors like restaurants or maybe a river, park or lake.
Once you have found the perfect home for you and your family, it will be time to write up an offer to purchase, which your St. Louis Realtor will do. If your offer is accepted by the selling party, your time-line for inspections, surveys, insurance and mortgage loan commitment begins. In the St Louis area a normal time frame for inspections is 10-15 days and can include building, termite, radon and sewer lateral just to name a few of the inspections you'll want to have completed by a professional.. You'll need to arrange for insurance with a home insurance provider. Surveys are usually ordered through the title company and range anywhere from $350-$750 dependent on the type of survey you require. A larger lot will be more costly. Your St.Louis Realtorwill also be able to refer you to a couple of different mortgage people, so that you can get the necessary financing that you need to purchase the home. Once the sale is concluded you will be able to move into your new home and enjoy it.
Looking to buy or sell a home in the St. Louis, Mo area? Visit HOMES OF STL for more information.
.The Helderle Team 2014 © All Rights Reserved
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Monday, December 23, 2013
Friday, December 20, 2013
Living and Playing In Festus Missouri
FESTUS MO
For those people who are looking to move to Dixieland, a small city in Missouri might be a place to consider. Festus, MO is a community that is nestled in the eastern part of the state. About 11,602 people considered it to be their home in the 2010 census, and the city offers the vibrant greenery of Jefferson County with its seven parks. This truly is a quaint town that would-be home buyers would want to consider moving to if they like a clean pleasant, area that is great to raise a family in
The median household income in Festus is comparable to the rest of the state at $45,500. This is because the cost of living tends to be much lower in Festus, with median home prices for a single family household at just above $100,000. Since real estate is much more affordable in Festus as compared to other cities, many people consider this to be a great city to start a family in. As a matter of fact the median age for the population in Festus is 35 years old
Many families will find annual events such as the “Campout with Friends” to be a great activity. This is an event that is held every single year in the West City Park Fairgrounds. Residents come to the event ready to enjoy a night outdoors. The event includes fun activities such as bonfires, music, games, and even a movie. You are more than welcome to bring your own camper or RV home and spend a night getting to know friends and neighbors. Food and drink are always welcome so this is a great time to grill to hamburgers or a few steaks and enjoy a glass of cola with it
For more young adult activities, Festus is also home to a brewing festival. This is a festival where local breweries and beer enthusiasts offer their best tasting beers for your enjoyment. Many times these festivals are home to fund raising activities, beer tasting competitions, prizes, and games. It is a great way to sample some really great tasting beer or even learn about the process of making beer or wines in general!
If you are considering moving to Festus, the Helderle Team and REMAX BEST CHOICE are there to help. They will be able to guide your through selecting the best home for you or your family and show you why Festus is a great place to live. The city offers a huge selection of really great affordable housing which is why it is such a wonderful community. This city has great schools, great parks, reliable city services, and a low crime rate. Plus the people of Festus have that well known southern charm that the Southern United States is famous for. The climate is generally pleasant to live in year round, and Missouri is a central location in the U.S. making it accessible to many great vacation spots.
Minutes from the attractions in downtown St. Louis including the Arch, Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, Fox Theater, Washington and St. Louis University and Laclede Landing
For more information on Festus, Missouri visit Frank & Laurie of RE/MAX Best Choice
The Helderle Team 2013 © All Rights Reserved
For those people who are looking to move to Dixieland, a small city in Missouri might be a place to consider. Festus, MO is a community that is nestled in the eastern part of the state. About 11,602 people considered it to be their home in the 2010 census, and the city offers the vibrant greenery of Jefferson County with its seven parks. This truly is a quaint town that would-be home buyers would want to consider moving to if they like a clean pleasant, area that is great to raise a family in
The median household income in Festus is comparable to the rest of the state at $45,500. This is because the cost of living tends to be much lower in Festus, with median home prices for a single family household at just above $100,000. Since real estate is much more affordable in Festus as compared to other cities, many people consider this to be a great city to start a family in. As a matter of fact the median age for the population in Festus is 35 years old
Many families will find annual events such as the “Campout with Friends” to be a great activity. This is an event that is held every single year in the West City Park Fairgrounds. Residents come to the event ready to enjoy a night outdoors. The event includes fun activities such as bonfires, music, games, and even a movie. You are more than welcome to bring your own camper or RV home and spend a night getting to know friends and neighbors. Food and drink are always welcome so this is a great time to grill to hamburgers or a few steaks and enjoy a glass of cola with it
For more young adult activities, Festus is also home to a brewing festival. This is a festival where local breweries and beer enthusiasts offer their best tasting beers for your enjoyment. Many times these festivals are home to fund raising activities, beer tasting competitions, prizes, and games. It is a great way to sample some really great tasting beer or even learn about the process of making beer or wines in general!
If you are considering moving to Festus, the Helderle Team and REMAX BEST CHOICE are there to help. They will be able to guide your through selecting the best home for you or your family and show you why Festus is a great place to live. The city offers a huge selection of really great affordable housing which is why it is such a wonderful community. This city has great schools, great parks, reliable city services, and a low crime rate. Plus the people of Festus have that well known southern charm that the Southern United States is famous for. The climate is generally pleasant to live in year round, and Missouri is a central location in the U.S. making it accessible to many great vacation spots.
Minutes from the attractions in downtown St. Louis including the Arch, Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, Fox Theater, Washington and St. Louis University and Laclede Landing
For more information on Festus, Missouri visit Frank & Laurie of RE/MAX Best Choice
The Helderle Team 2013 © All Rights Reserved
Friday, December 13, 2013
Arnold, MO
A beautiful suburban community, located in Jefferson County, Arnold Missouri has much to offer. Explore Ozark country with its parks, rivers, and natural magnificence while you hike and fish. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy all the small town culture in Arnold MO. Dining, shopping, along with a diverse variety of churches, and award winning schools.
Want to get away to the city?
St. Louis with the Arch, Busch Stadium and all of its magnificence and attractions is only a few miles away, just north on Interstate 55.
Parks
Arnold city parks cover over 400 acres. Amenities like playgrounds, tennis courts, ball fields, and shelters offering family friendly fun. Arnold Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday at Arnold City Park providing fresh produce.
Recreation Center
The Arnold Recreation Center is a place for the community to socialize and join together. Children, teens, adults, families, and seniors are all welcomed. With fitness facilities, indoor and outdoor pool, meeting rooms and more, there are plenty of things to enjoy.
Activities
There is an upcoming 5K on Thanksgiving at the city park with portions of the proceeds going towards Arnold, MO., food pantry. With a performance of the Nutcracker coming in early December at Rickman auditorium on the Fox senior High Campus. There are plenty of extracurricular activities in Arnold that are fun and varied.
What are the Stats?
Median home price in Arnold is set at $119, 600. If you're thinking of moving to Arnold, MO Click Here To See Available Properties There are Twenty-three professional schools within thirty miles. Thirty-six movie theaters and over two thousand restaurants also exist within fifteen miles.
Economic development work is being done to help current businesses expand, attract new businesses, help with relocation, and improve commercial buildings. The city is growing and improving. The population is expected to increase around 9% over the next few years.
Whether you are looking for quality schools, reasonable real estate, or that small town feel added with convenience, Arnold MO may just be the place to look.
The Helderle Team 2013 © All Rights Reserved
Sunday, December 01, 2013
Buying a Home In Saint Louis, MO.
Are you interested in buying a new home in St. Louis, Missouri? If you are, you are definitely not alone. When planning and purchasing a home you may find that in addition to a wide range of choices you are also faced with an extreme and vast array of pricing options for your home needs. You should establish a budget before going out to look for your dream home in St. Louis and buy a Home or Real Estate that suits both the requirements you wish and within your purchasing power. The good news is that there are home's available that will meet most budgets; and you should be able to find the one you like.
Although owning a brand new home is nice and exciting, homes, particularly new ones, can get quite pricey. The first things that you will want to do is ask yourself if you wish to buy a new home, how much you can afford? Normally you will ask your Realtor for a referral of a local lender that can help you make that decision.
The location, features and condition of the home is something that should be taken into consideration, when looking to buy a new home.
The above mentioned points are just a few of the many points that you should keep in mind, when looking to buy a home. This is why you need to make sure that you read carefully and know exactly the steps to buying a home in St. Louis, Mo and benefits to purchasing a home in St. Louis.
Steps To Buying A Home
Step 1:
Visit. STLMoHomes.com to create and set up a home search that will notify you anytime a property meeting your criteria comes onto the St. Louis, MO., MLS.
Step 2:
Drive by the St. Louis homes you may have some interest in. Look at the exterior condition, drive through the neighborhood., check out neighborhood conveniences. grocery stores, shopping centers, theaters, schools, etc.
Step 3:
Review the St. Louis MLS listing to get a better idea of each property for sale. Determine if the house is worth the money you have budgeted, STLMOHomes.com will create a market analysis showing sold comparative's.
Step 4:
Have your STLMoHomes.comwrite an offer and include all items you want included with the property. Also include any repairs you determine need to be taken care of. Maybe you see a leaking drain or a busted screen, requesting theses items in your offer will help your negotiating advantages.
Step 5:
Once a contract is accepted schedule and attend a building inspection. Don't skimp by asking Uncle Harvey to check it out, hire an ASHI certified inspector. He will go through the house top to bottom and check things Uncle Harvey would of never even thought about. Follow the inspector around, ask questions. Once all inspections are complete you should be ready to escrow /close on your purchaser an move in.
Benefits To Purchasing A Home In St. Louis.
1. Freedom - The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and be able to benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home.
2. Stability - Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to participate in community activities, lets you and your family establish lasting friendships
3. Appreciation - We're talking about the financial kind. Homes are considered a safe, steady investment, with values that rise while debt amount drops.
4. Peace of Mind - Most importantly, purchasing a home in St. louis will bring an invaluable sense of security. Owning your home outright means never having to worry about covering your mortgage. In the face of disaster, such as job loss or injury, full ownership eliminates the risk of losing your home to foreclosure. Moreover, if you have paid with all cash, you will have excellent equity in the house. In case of financial emergency, you can draw on that equity for quick cash.
5.Borrowing Power - For owners who opt to stay put, equity still comes in handy. It can be used to secure a loan or obtain a line of credit, meaning "more buying power to fund home improvements or to assist with the purchasing of investment property.
Buying your St. Louis home with STLMOHomes.com will insure a hassle free transaction and many happy years in your new St. Louis, MO., home.
The Helderle Team 2013 © All Rights Reserved
Are you interested in buying a new home in St. Louis, Missouri? If you are, you are definitely not alone. When planning and purchasing a home you may find that in addition to a wide range of choices you are also faced with an extreme and vast array of pricing options for your home needs. You should establish a budget before going out to look for your dream home in St. Louis and buy a Home or Real Estate that suits both the requirements you wish and within your purchasing power. The good news is that there are home's available that will meet most budgets; and you should be able to find the one you like.
Although owning a brand new home is nice and exciting, homes, particularly new ones, can get quite pricey. The first things that you will want to do is ask yourself if you wish to buy a new home, how much you can afford? Normally you will ask your Realtor for a referral of a local lender that can help you make that decision.
The location, features and condition of the home is something that should be taken into consideration, when looking to buy a new home.
The above mentioned points are just a few of the many points that you should keep in mind, when looking to buy a home. This is why you need to make sure that you read carefully and know exactly the steps to buying a home in St. Louis, Mo and benefits to purchasing a home in St. Louis.
Steps To Buying A Home
Step 1:
Visit. STLMoHomes.com to create and set up a home search that will notify you anytime a property meeting your criteria comes onto the St. Louis, MO., MLS.
Step 2:
Drive by the St. Louis homes you may have some interest in. Look at the exterior condition, drive through the neighborhood., check out neighborhood conveniences. grocery stores, shopping centers, theaters, schools, etc.
Step 3:
Review the St. Louis MLS listing to get a better idea of each property for sale. Determine if the house is worth the money you have budgeted, STLMOHomes.com will create a market analysis showing sold comparative's.
Step 4:
Have your STLMoHomes.comwrite an offer and include all items you want included with the property. Also include any repairs you determine need to be taken care of. Maybe you see a leaking drain or a busted screen, requesting theses items in your offer will help your negotiating advantages.
Step 5:
Once a contract is accepted schedule and attend a building inspection. Don't skimp by asking Uncle Harvey to check it out, hire an ASHI certified inspector. He will go through the house top to bottom and check things Uncle Harvey would of never even thought about. Follow the inspector around, ask questions. Once all inspections are complete you should be ready to escrow /close on your purchaser an move in.
Benefits To Purchasing A Home In St. Louis.
1. Freedom - The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and be able to benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home.
2. Stability - Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to participate in community activities, lets you and your family establish lasting friendships
3. Appreciation - We're talking about the financial kind. Homes are considered a safe, steady investment, with values that rise while debt amount drops.
4. Peace of Mind - Most importantly, purchasing a home in St. louis will bring an invaluable sense of security. Owning your home outright means never having to worry about covering your mortgage. In the face of disaster, such as job loss or injury, full ownership eliminates the risk of losing your home to foreclosure. Moreover, if you have paid with all cash, you will have excellent equity in the house. In case of financial emergency, you can draw on that equity for quick cash.
5.Borrowing Power - For owners who opt to stay put, equity still comes in handy. It can be used to secure a loan or obtain a line of credit, meaning "more buying power to fund home improvements or to assist with the purchasing of investment property.
Buying your St. Louis home with STLMOHomes.com will insure a hassle free transaction and many happy years in your new St. Louis, MO., home.
The Helderle Team 2013 © All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Central West End of St. Louis: What to Do, Where to Go, and What to See
Central West End of St. Louis: What to Do, Where to Go, and What to See
Extending from Midtown’s western tip down to Union Boulevard, the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis is one of the city’s most affluent communities and home to an array of free attractions, as well as being the “heart of the city”. For example, this wealthy neighborhood is home to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, which has the largest collection of mosaics in the world, as well as Forest Park, and the quaint turn-of-the-century lamp posts and cobblestone streets that give the neighborhood its historic atmosphere. This community also has many residential areas, some of which are actually listed on the National Register of Historical Places, such as Westminster Place and Washington Terrace.
Central West End was historically the home of playwright Tennessee Williams, and also of poet T.S. Eliot. The 1904 World’s Fair—held in nearby Forest Park—gave Central West End even more popularity and its population grew after the fair was over and many of the fair’s visitors stayed in the area. The neighborhood is now a mix of residential areas and a commercial/retail space that is located along Euclid Avenue, stretching from Forest Park Parkway, Delmar Boulevard, and also many restaurants are nestled in the Euclid/McPherson and Euclid/Laclede areas. Maryland Plaza is another area with many of the neighborhood’s restaurants and shops, including resident favorites like Brasserie by Niche, Scottish Arms, Atlas, and Herbie’s Vintage 72.
This scenic and historic community also has other tourist attractions, other than just restaurants and shopping; the Saint Louis Public Library Schlafly Branch is located here, on Lindell Boulevard; the architecture of the historic homes and buildings is a tourist destination in itself, including the large homes in Westminster Place, built from 1890 until 1910, and also homes in Washington Terrace which date back to 1892; and Chase Park Plaza, located at Kingshighway between Lindell Street and Maryland Plaza, features hotels, opulent private homes, a movie theater, restaurants, and banquet facilities.
Nightlife is a plus in the neighborhood as well, with lots of great bars and pubs along Laclede Avenue, Euclid, and Maryland Plaza, including popular favorites like Rosie’s Place, Luna, Bar Italia, Club 34, Bad Dog Saloon, and the Viva Club.
Demographically, the Central West End neighborhood consists of mainly Caucasians (58%), with a mix of African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics. The median household income was $64k as of 2012, with a home value of around $115k. Many of the homes in the historic residential areas are large, built in the mid 1900s, and several are on the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists are drawn to these large homes set along quaint cobblestone streets that truly give this “heart of the city” of St. Louis its reputation for being the best area for living, living it up, and enjoying the nightlife.
Visit Frank & Laurie at STL MO HOMES
Frank J. Helderle St. Louis, MO June 2013 ©
St. Louis Hills Community Has a Rich Past and is a Popular Location for Families
This neighborhood’s motto is “Country Living in the City” and sums up the popularity and atmosphere of St. Louis Hills. Located east of Hampton Avenue and southeast of Gravois Avenue, St. Louis Hills is a coveted neighborhood, with many attractions including two parks (Francis Park and Willmore Park), the famed Ted Drewes Frozen Custard shop, and also dozens of small businesses. The neighborhood is mostly residential, however, and is a popular location for young families and busy professionals who work in nearby communities or downtown.
St. Louis Hills has a rich history, having been first developed during the 30s, but the area actually dates back to mid-1700s when the land was deeded to French colonists, Madame Ann Camp and Anton Reihle by Pierre Laclede. The area remained mostly remote, with only a few residents until the 1930s when development really started. Cyrus Crane Willmore (whom the park is named) was the visionary builder of the St. Louis Hills neighborhood; he initially came to St. Louis in 1912 after he graduated from the University of Illinois’s law school and then worked for a realty firm until 1922, when he decided to start his own company. It was his goal to turn St. Louis Hills into a tree-lined residential area for families, with churches and schools, and plenty of parks for residents to enjoy. His English heritage was evident in the names of streets in the neighborhood: Nottingham Avenue and Devonshire Avenue are just a few. There are many great attractions in this neighborhood, including two popular parks (Francis Park and Willmore Park), the famous custard shop, nice restaurants, and events like concerts, festivals, and family activities at the parks. Tourists who come to St. Louis take in the beautiful architecture in this neighborhood; be sure to check out the Arts & Crafts-style homes along Eichelberger Street, and north of Eichelberger are houses, apartment complexes, and duplexes, most of which were built in the 30s and 40s. One home in particular stands out, as it was built with eight sides and is a striking house to look at. The Vedder apartment building on Nottingham Avenue is one of the neighborhoods architectural landmarks, with art deco details, circular windows, curved corners, and stunning brick work. Also on Nottingham Avenue are homes that showcase the neighborhood’s famous architecture; plenty of porthole-style windows, glass block trim, and stunning zigzag brick work.
Demographically, St. Louis Hills’ residents are primarily Caucasians (94%), and also a smaller number of African Americans (2%), and Hispanics (2%). The average household income of the residents was approximately $54k in 2010, and a median home value of $219k. This safe and diverse neighborhood is an ideal location for families, busy business professionals looking for a nice place to live that is near their workplace, and also retirees who want a serene, picturesque community in which to spend their golden years. Tourists also enjoy this area, thanks to the stunning architecture, the parks, and the many events the community hosts.
Visit Frank & Laurie today at STLMOHOMES.com
The Helderle Team
2013 © All Rights Reserved
Monday, October 14, 2013
10 Items To Check Before Buying A Home
10 Items to Check Before Buying A House
Buying a house is a big investment. Deciding to purchase a house is not a decision that anybody takes lightly because of the costs involved. You want the perfect house, a house that will be your home for years to come. If you are looking for your perfect house in St. Louis, we will be happy to help you out, please visit the Helderle team today
It is easy for homeowners to fall in love with the house before they even tour the inside. When you find a house that has the perfect yard, the right number of rooms in a layout that you love and a great location, it is easy to forget that what is below the surface is just as important as the curb appeal and the interior of the house. Buying a house on looks alone can be a very costly mistake, adding a huge cost on top of an already large sum of money that the homeowner has committed to.
Yet, many homeowners have purchases houses based on the looks along and then need to spend thousands of dollars in repairs shortly after buying the house. You do not want your dream house to turn into a money pit so you always need to check out several important features prior to buying a house.
It is a common misconception that you only need to carefully inspect older houses. Do not be lulled into that line of thinking! Newer houses are just as prone to having problems as older ones. It is important to check the items on this list for both new and older houses.
By taking a look at several key areas in the house that are prone to becoming a problem areas, you can help to determine if this is the house that you want and if you should go ahead and pay for the cost of a house inspection or if you should keep looking at houses. If you are having trouble finding a house that is right for your family, contact the Helderle team at STLMOHOMES.com, they know St. Louis and the surrounding area and can help you find a house that suits your needs at the best possible price.
10 Essential Items To Check Before Buying A Home
Avoid the necessity of paying for costly home repairs shortly after moving into your new house. These ten items are very easy to check when you are looking at a potential home for your family. Taking the time to do these will save you money in the long run. If the current homeowners are reluctant to let you check any of the following, that is a huge red flag.
· Test the tap water – Not all water is created equal, especially if it comes out of pipes that are old and corroded. A quick sip of water can tell you if you might need to redo the plumbing. By filling a clean, clear glass with water, direct from the tap you can see if the water is clear, and you can taste it to see how it tastes. Sometimes off tasting water is due to the city water supply, but it can be from old pipes. At any rate, if the water tastes or looks off, you know to take a close look at the plumbing.
· Check the drains – Sewer line backups are common problems, especially in areas where there are lots of trees or with older pipes and water lines. This is fairly easy to check for; fill up the tub and a few of the sinks and then let them drain at the same time. If the water line is bad, you will be able to easily tell.
· Check the faucets – Try all of the faucets in the house to make sure that they are all working and no leaks. Check to see that the stoppers work as well.
· Check the windows – This is often overlooked and replacing windows in a house can be costly. Check to see that the windows actually open without problems and that they are without cracks or other issues.
· Check the Fireplace – Ask to start a quick fire in the fireplace to see if the fireplace drafts correctly. Ask the family when the last time the chimney was cleaned; it is usually just the matter of giving it a good cleaning to get it back in good working order.
· Check the AC/heat – Turn on the AC and the heat to make sure that they work. It will save you time and money to make sure that they are working before you move in. Let them run for a bit to make sure that they work well, not just turn them on and turn them right back off.
· Check the toilets – Put a little bit of toilet paper in each of the toilets and flush them to ensure that they work well. Sticky handles are a fairly easy fix but toilets that back up with a little toilet paper are a bigger issue.
· Check the electrical panel – If the electrical panel is nicely labeled, that is a good sign. Look for a wire that look loose or frayed, that is a serious concern.
· Check the basement – Is the basement damp? Mold is a big concern to take a close look at the basement to make sure that there are no issues with dampness and moisture.
· Check under the carpet – Because they want the carpets to look nice for potential buyers, some owners may not let you do this, but it does not hurt to ask to see if you can pull up a corner of carpet in a closet to check the quality of the floor underneath the carpet.
Are you a buyer looking for homes in the St. Louis area? Take the hassle out of buying a home by using trusted experts. The Helderle team of realtors is here for you. If you have questions about buying property in St. Louis, we have answer for you; let us help you find your home today! Please visit the Helderle Team of St. Louis, MO.
10 Essential Items To Check Before Buying A Home
Avoid the necessity of paying for costly home repairs shortly after moving into your new house. These ten items are very easy to check when you are looking at a potential home for your family. Taking the time to do these will save you money in the long run. If the current homeowners are reluctant to let you check any of the following, that is a huge red flag.
· Test the tap water – Not all water is created equal, especially if it comes out of pipes that are old and corroded. A quick sip of water can tell you if you might need to redo the plumbing. By filling a clean, clear glass with water, direct from the tap you can see if the water is clear, and you can taste it to see how it tastes. Sometimes off tasting water is due to the city water supply, but it can be from old pipes. At any rate, if the water tastes or looks off, you know to take a close look at the plumbing.
· Check the drains – Sewer line backups are common problems, especially in areas where there are lots of trees or with older pipes and water lines. This is fairly easy to check for; fill up the tub and a few of the sinks and then let them drain at the same time. If the water line is bad, you will be able to easily tell.
· Check the faucets – Try all of the faucets in the house to make sure that they are all working and no leaks. Check to see that the stoppers work as well.
· Check the windows – This is often overlooked and replacing windows in a house can be costly. Check to see that the windows actually open without problems and that they are without cracks or other issues.
· Check the Fireplace – Ask to start a quick fire in the fireplace to see if the fireplace drafts correctly. Ask the family when the last time the chimney was cleaned; it is usually just the matter of giving it a good cleaning to get it back in good working order.
· Check the AC/heat – Turn on the AC and the heat to make sure that they work. It will save you time and money to make sure that they are working before you move in. Let them run for a bit to make sure that they work well, not just turn them on and turn them right back off.
· Check the toilets – Put a little bit of toilet paper in each of the toilets and flush them to ensure that they work well. Sticky handles are a fairly easy fix but toilets that back up with a little toilet paper are a bigger issue.
· Check the electrical panel – If the electrical panel is nicely labeled, that is a good sign. Look for a wire that look loose or frayed, that is a serious concern.
· Check the basement – Is the basement damp? Mold is a big concern to take a close look at the basement to make sure that there are no issues with dampness and moisture.
· Check under the carpet – Because they want the carpets to look nice for potential buyers, some owners may not let you do this, but it does not hurt to ask to see if you can pull up a corner of carpet in a closet to check the quality of the floor underneath the carpet.
Are you a buyer looking for homes in the St. Louis area? Take the hassle out of buying a home by using trusted experts. The Helderle team of realtors is here for you. If you have questions about buying property in St. Louis, we have answer for you; let us help you find your home today! Please visit the Helderle Team of St. Louis, MO.
Monday, September 30, 2013
St. Louis’s Shaw Neighborhood: One of the City’s Jewels and a Great Place to Live, Play and Visit
St. Louis’s Shaw Neighborhood: One of the City’s Jewels and a Great Place to Live, Play and Visit
Named for the man who founded the Missouri Botanical Gardens—Henry Shaw—the Shaw neighborhood of St. Louis (which is comprised of two smaller communities called Tower Grove Park and Shaw Gardens) is one of the city’s oldest intact neighborhoods in St. Louis’s historic districts. It’s also one of the communities in the city that is still in the throes of gentrification, thanks to the Shaw Neighborhood Housing Corporation which strives to both improve and promote different properties by working with developers, sponsors, realtors, and others.
The area was purchased from French settlers by Captain William Chambers in 1816, and then was bought by Henry Shaw, who was then only 19 years of age and had just arrived to the St. Louis area. Once there, Shaw built his large country home he named Tower Grover House and began work on his garden, now known as the Missouri Botanical Garden. Shaw is the main reason why there are such a variety of architecture as well as the many different types of residences: Two- and three-story homes are seen next to multifamily dwellings, churches, schools, and small businesses.
Present day Shaw is still seeing a lot of new development, including the progress on new apartments, and ongoing renovations on the neighborhood’s old homes and building. While some still remain boarded up and empty, many associations like the Shaw Neighborhood Improvement Association are trying to get new businesses into the community, since there are so many new young families that have come to the area; many residents feel this is the next phase for the community.
Attractions in Shaw are plentiful and include the Missouri Botanical Garden, the famous Shaw Art, all of the beautiful and historic homes along the Flora Place boulevard, the stunning churches like St. Margaret of Scotland, and the Tower Grove Park. Tower Grove Park is an attraction and special part of the city all on its own; it was originally part of Henry Shaw’s land but he donated it in 1868 to the city of St. Louis and is now around 289 acres. This park has 11 pavilions of different designs, including Victorian, as well as a lovely lily pond, gorgeous plants, the Piper Palm House, which is a bandstand and the site of special events and music, tennis courts, a wading pool, open expanses of grass for picnics or playing sports, softball and soccer fields, and pathways for walkers, joggers, and dog walkers. The park also features almost 400 species of flowering plants, trees, and bushes, plus it’s a wonderful place for birdwatching, especially in spring and fall. There are also lots of statues in the park, such as Christopher Columbus, Alexander von Humboldt, William Shakespeare, and famous musical composers.
The famed Historic Shaw Art Fair has been held in the community for 21 years; it brings together the whole neighborhood with great art from artists from across the country, food, music, and more. It is held in every October, and is an event that residents, artists, and tourists look forward to every year.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Clayton-Tamm Neighborhood of St. Louis: The “Dogtown” of the City
Clayton-Tamm Neighborhood of St. Louis: The “Dogtown” of the City
Known to locals as “Dogtown”, the Clayton-Tamm neighborhood of St. Louis is famous for its large population of Irish-Americans, and together with the smaller communities of Franz Park and Ellendale make up the famed Dogtown section of St. Louis. The annual Ancient Order of Hibernians St. Patrick’s Day Parade happens here it this famous neighborhood, which was first started in 1984 to showcase the variety of charities, donations, and offerings of the Irish people in the community. Located just on the western border of St. Louis, the neighborhood takes its name from the bisecting streets of Clayton Avenue and Tamm Avenue.
Historically, this Irish-American community started out as a parcel of land owned by the Spanish settlers of the area, and was later bought by Charles Gratiot in 1785 for growing things like tobacco, corn, and wheat. After his death the land was divided and given as inheritance. The major growth in the community really began in the late 19th century when coal and clay mining developed. Further growth was seen in 1904 when preparations began for the great World’s Fair. Attractions in “Dogtown” run the gamut from popular restaurants, bars and nightlife, a theater, art shops, and bakeries. There are also numerous attractions located nearby Dogtown, including Forest Park, which is just a short walk away, and the renowned St. Louis Zoo, and the Art Museum. There are also the Dogtown community garden, and various other restaurants, bars, and taverns to fit most any tourist who comes to the Dogtown area
Popular local attractions in the Clayton-Tamm neighborhood include: Horseshoe House (which has the famed “horseshoes” so beloved by residents of St. Louis), Amsterdam Tavern, Seamus McDaniels, Felix’s, Latitude (a Tex-Mex place), and Nora’s (a soup and sandwich shop). For families visiting the zoo, try having their famous fried chicken at Pat’s Bar & Grill, located at the corner of Tamm Ave and Oakland Ave. The Hi Pointe Movie Theater is a great place to catch the newest flick, take a look at some great pieces at The Dogtown Gallery and Frame Shop, or rejuvenate at Urban Breath Yoga studio. All of these great places are located right within Dogtown and can all be walked to within minutes.
Start off the day by having breakfast at Cadiera’s, then check out the gorgeous Dogtown community garden, which is south down near Manchester. Stop by the Dogtown Gallery and Frame Shop later, then have lunch at Seamus McDaniels or Felix’s, then take in the zoo or art museum. Demographically, the residents of Dogtown are primarily Caucasian (89%), with a smaller percentage of African American (6%), Asian (2%), and Hispanic (2%). The median home value in Dogtown is around $175k, and an average household income of approximately $41k. The safety here in Dogtown is low, especially in comparison to other neighborhoods, so the affording housing, low crime rate, great restaurants and bars, plus the close proximity to some awesome attractions like the zoo and art museum, make this neighborhood a popular destination for young families, young professionals, and even retirees.
The Helderle Team 2013 © All Rights Reserved
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