Ballwin Homes for Sale Blog

More Properties Under Investors

December 8, 2011 By rebecca 1 Comment

Are you looking for short sales, foreclosures, land or commercial properties. To access these properties just click on the INVESTORS icon at the top of the page.

Many new real estate investors are frozen stiff because of these fears. It is for this reason I’ve listed some of the reasons a real estate investor might want to add to their portfolio of investments.

Why Land Flipping

There is virtually no competition for land, especially rural land. This area of investing is over flowing with a lot of opportunity – there is an abundance of forgotten land out there that sells for cheap! You can purchase land for literally pennies on the dollar.

With land you do not have to know as much about real estate like construction, termites, mold and all the other things of that nature that you must know when investing in houses. Here are some compelling reasons to add land flipping to your real estate investing portfolio:

Very low, (or sometimes none), acquisition costs
Lower risk – limited money down to lose
Lower inspection requirements
Quicker closings
Less initial capital output
Buyers are usually more savvy investors
Good Potential for monthly residual income with your owner financing
Usually no upkeep required
Usually low holding costs (no fire insurance, fix up, utilities involved)
Higher number of buyers are repeat buyers (compared to home end buyers)

Why Houses Flipping

For some real estate investors flipping houses might have been the first investing niche that they started in. Let’s list the major reasons why house flipping is a good investing strategy:

More potential to generate income while you hold it – owner financing or renting
Everyone needs a house since shelter is a basic necessity of life. Not everyone needs vacant land
Potential to profit big doing just one good deal
Potential for higher monthly residual income per property
A lot more home owners in desperate situations than there are landowners.

Give us a call and we can assist you with your goals.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tips, Uncategorized

4 Ideas That Can Solve The Mortgage Crisis And How It Will Affect You

February 21, 2012 By Geanina Leave a Comment

There has been good news lately that seems to indicate that the economy in general and real estate more specifically are getting back on track. There is still much that needs to be fixed, especially when one looks at the glut of foreclosures still in possession of Freddie Mac and Fannie May.

There are more than 250,000 homes held by these two companies and 10 times that amount of homeowners have difficulty repaying their mortgages. So, here are some ideas on what can be done to help fix the crisis.

Here are some ideas on what can be done to help fix the crisis.

Create A Rental Program With The Stock Of Foreclosed Homes

It may take one or two big investors, but it will be worth their while and removing excess inventory will benefit the market and homeowners too as it will help stabilize matters and neighborhoods.

Everyone Should Benefit From Lower Rates

There are some 8 million mortgage loans held by Fannie May and Freddie Mac with an interest rate greater than 6%. Compare that to the latest 30 year rates of less than 4%. What’s more, these homeowners are underwater or nearly underwater, but they don’t qualify for the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP).

If the program is extended, as planned, to allow homeowners with mortgages where the loan to value ratio is greater than 80%, it will create breathing space for many who find themselves in dire straits.

Get Lenders And Homeowners Talking

It might seem like a futile process to let troubled homeowners and mortgage companies try and mediate the foreclosure process. Surprisingly it yields very good results.

In some states where mediation is actively promoted, three out of every four cases that are mediated result in a positive outcome for the parties; and that’s better than good – that’s excellent!

Protect Consumers From Unscrupulous Mortgage Companies

If we are to keep a crisis like this from happening again, mortgage lenders must be held in check and consumers must be able to report irregularities when they do occur.

Conditions today are still overwhelmingly in favor of buying real estate. The hardest part might be to narrow down your options from the great variety of homes available for sale throughout Ballwin, Westwood, Chesterfield, and other areas in West County.

I invite you now to explore all the options that are available with our innovative hotlist. Simply fill in the form below and all the latest listings and offerings will be emailed to you.

Explore The Beauty Of Chesterfield And Find Your Dream Home Today

February 14, 2012 By Geanina Leave a Comment

Chesterfield gives you the peaceful atmosphere of living in the country, yet has all the amenities of a city close at hand. It is located just 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis; but in Chesterfield there are exceptional activities for its residents.

Firstly, when we think about West St. Louis County, outdoor activities come to mind. Babler State Park is located over 3.8 sq mi and activities that people can enjoy there include cycling, hiking, and picnicking – there are more than 200 picnic spots! Faust Park contains the Missouri Botanical Garden with its renowned Butterfly House. There are flower shows, musical, and other events hosted at Butterfly House all year round.

Chesterfield gives you the peaceful atmosphere of living in the country, yet has all the amenities of a city close at hand.

Now that the weather will start to get warmer the Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center will again be the ideal hangout for family fun. The center offers two dive boards, different pools, and a lazy river for a warm, laidback day in the sun.

Then there’s golf. Chesterfield has some eight country clubs and golf courses. The Championship Golf Course and Meadowbrook Country Club offer a challenging golfing experience, while those who are short on time can play at the shorter Valley Golf Course at Forest Hills Golf and Country Club.

The homes in Chesterfield are equally impressive. In Faust Park Historic Village there are historic structures, called “Century Houses.” These homes are over 100 years old and give us a look back into what life was like at the turn of the previous century.

Modern homes were typically built between 1960 and 1999 with a great variety available to choose from. Styles include Tudor, French, and Colonial designs with many homes located on large, scenic lots; some may even be described as being small ranches. Chesterfield is made up of many different subdivisions, each with its own characteristics, but you can be sure that quality homes are to be found everywhere.

If it is luxury homes you are after, communities such as the Shadows, Tara Estates, and Christopher Woods hold the answer. Homes in these communities can easily exceed 6,000 sq ft.

Start exploring the subdivisions of Chesterfield and the available homes for sale today with our innovative Hot List. You will receive access to the latest homes for sale directly in your email. No more calling on ads or searching across the internet to hope a property is available as ALL properties will be emailed direct to you.

Filed Under: West St. Louis County Homes, West St. Louis County Real Estate Tagged With: Chesterfield Homes, chesterfield real estate, West St. Louis County Neighborhoods

123 Applegate Lane

January 24, 2012 By rebecca Leave a Comment

This fantastic home is updated, elegant and a must see. The kitchen and baths have been updated with ceramic tile flooring, newer vanities and cabinets, newer appliances in the kitchen.The entire home has been repainted, newer floor trim, ceramic tile surround in the the shower. Completely enclosed breezeway from the home into the 2 car garage is great for those rainy or snowy days. Located on a large flat lot is perfect throwing the ball with the kids or running with the dog. Tastefully done and ready for a new owner.

Listing Price: $169,000
Address: 123 Applegate
City: Ballwin
State: Mo
ZIP: 63011

MLS # (if any): 11054372
Square Feet: 960
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 1
Basement (full, 1/2, finished, unfinished): none

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Find out more about this property today by reaching out through our Contact Form or you can call us direct at 314-221-6927. When you would like to see ALL of the great homes in the area simply request our powerful Hot List.

Filed Under: Featured Properties, Uncategorized Tagged With: 3 bedrooms, Ballwin, Home, Updated

West County Offers Not Only The Best Homes But Also The Best Activities

January 24, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

For a region that boasts some of the most majestic landscapes and outdoor activities to match, West County offers a wide range of events that cover every interest.

The month starts off with Family Fun Night at the Pointe in Ballwin on February 2^nd. Bring the family and take up the sporting challenge! The Pointe will host games and contests throughout the evening to test your family’s fitness and teamwork.

For a region that boasts some of the most majestic landscapes and outdoor activities to match, West County offers a wide range of events that cover every interest.

The St. Louis Blues are still sitting near the top of the table and are more than ten points to the good comparing to the same time last year. Watch them take on the Los Angeles Kings on February 3^rd at the Scottrade Center. There are five more home games during February when they will spend the majority of the time on the road, so they need every ounce of support and every point they can get at home.

During the whole of February the Bruno David Gallery presents the works of Chris Kahler’s third solo exhibition. Kahler, an Associate Professor of Painting and Drawing at Eastern Illinois University, explores the fields of architecture, ecology, network theory, and cybernetics with these new works.

The Missouri History Museum in Forest Park has several rotating exhibitions pertaining to the history of Missouri running at the moment. Choose from Kirkwood roots, the Civil War in Missouri, Titans of the Ice Age, or simply attend them all.

6 North Café in Ballwin carries on with their regular book signings on Saturday mornings. On February 4^th from 10AM local author and stand-up comic, Rob Durham, will be in attendance to sign copies of his book.

The performance of West Side Story will create a perfect Valentine’s night out at The Fox Theatre in Grand Center with a run that lasts till February 26^th. There are 8:00PM shows Tuesday to Sunday and matinee shows on Saturday and Sunday as well.

The city of Wildwood makes the best of the majestic landscape it has to offer, holding a Cabin Fever Hike on February 25^th at the Al Foster Trailhead. This is an event for the whole family to spend the day together.

As you will have discovered West County offers great activities to its residents who enjoy an exceptional quality of life. The different communities of West County also offer a great variety condos and homes for sale in Ballwin for buyers to choose from.

I invite you now to explore all the options that are available with our innovative hotlist. Simply fill in the form below and all the latest listings and offerings will be emailed to you.

Filed Under: Ballwin Activities, Ballwin Events, Ballwin Real Estate Tagged With: Ballwin Condos, Ballwin Home buyers

462 Royal Village

January 24, 2012 By rebecca Leave a Comment

Fabulous Updated Ranch style home located on park like lot and located close to hwy 141. This beauty has been completely updated which you can see as soon as your open the door. Stepping on the ceramic tile foyer the newer neutral carpet draws you through the great room with consists of a living room and hearth room combined. The brick fire place accents this space giving it a warm friendly feeling. The open floor plan does not stop there, as the updated kitchen with custom cabinetry , ceramic flooring, marble counter tops, and stainless steel appliances make this a room a chef would love. There is also a separate dining room for the classy events. The master bedroom suite has plenty of rooms and updates with walk in closet, double sink vanity and a custom designed ceramic tile shower. This is a don’t miss home.

Listing Price: $269,000.00
Address: 462 Royal Village
City: Ballwin
State: Mo
ZIP: 63011

MLS # (if any): 12003326
Square Feet: 1874
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Basement (full, 1/2, finished, unfinished):

Filed Under: Featured Properties, Uncategorized Tagged With: Ballwin, Homes, Level Lot, Updated

107 Hillsdale, Ballwin Missouri

January 23, 2012 By rebecca Leave a Comment

Fabulous starter Ranch style home, sitting on over an acre lot has many amenities to offer. Gleaming hardwood floors lead you through the living room, hallway and throughout all three bedrooms. The kitchen has been completely updated with custom cabinetry , updated lighting , stainless steel appliances, ceramic tile flooring. The bathroom has also been updated with cabinets fixtures and plumbing fixtures. Newer doors throughout the home and some newer windows including custom large picture window in the living room. The backyard is completely fenced with large gates to access the backyard. Plenty of room for animals, throwing the football or hosting a family get together. The over sized garage has two work benches for the handy man or storage. Great location, price and style.

Listing Price: $139,000.00
Address: 107 Hillsdale
City: Ballwin
State: Mo
ZIP: 63011

MLS # (if any): 12002026
Square Feet: 997
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 1
Basement (full, 1/2, finished, unfinished):

Find out more about this property today by reaching out through our Contact Form or you can call us direct at 314-221-6927. When you would like to see ALL of the great homes in the area simply request our powerful Hot List.

Filed Under: Featured Properties Tagged With: Ballwin, Home, Starter

Mortgage Rates Go Lower Than Before – What That Means To Homeowners

January 17, 2012 By admin 3 Comments

Homeowners received a late Christmas gift with the news that the interest rate on a 30-year, fixed-rate loan, the most popular choice of homebuyers, was averaging 3.91% according to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey. This is the lowest it has been in the 40-years that the survey has been running. What does this mean for homeowners and potential buyers?

What does this mean for homeowners and potential buyers?

Savings! Savings! Savings!

Simply put, homeowners will feel it where it matters most: in their wallets. Since the beginning of last year rates have fallen 0.9%. On a $200,000 mortgage a homeowner will save $1,200 a year.

Refinance And Save Some More

The new rate affords the opportunity to refinance an existing mortgage at the improved rate, creating an obvious saving. But there is another option: refinancing a home at a shorter term, 20 or 15 years for instance. It would mean paying off your loan over 15 or 20 years if you can find a rate that will keep your monthly payment the same to what you were paying on the existing 30-year loan.

New Construction Starts Afresh

It has already started to happen: house starts have increased during the second half of last year. Since the markets went bust, building costs have exceeded the price of existing homes, thus placing a dampener on construction. The lower interest rate will activate buyer’s activity and bring higher prices within reach of more buyers.

More Stability To The Market

A better rate will stabilize existing mortgages and bring more buyers into the market, creating much needed stability.

Get More Bang For Your Buck

The lower interest rate is almost like receiving a pay hike from your employer. You can now afford a bigger loan than you would have been able to while still making the same repayment. As a buyer you will have more options and greater bargaining power than before.

If you have been waiting for the right time or dreaming to buy a home of your own, there surely is no better time than right now.

Here’s how we make choosing the right home so much easier. Take the first step to finding the right home in West County today with our innovative Hot List. You will receive an email containing all the latest listings. It takes less than 30 seconds to get started today when you fill out the form below.

Filed Under: Ballwin Homes, Ballwin Real Estate Tips Tagged With: Ballwin Home buyers

Explore Ballwin Missouri Where The Best Real Estate Becomes A Place To Call Home

January 10, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

If it is on your to-do list to live in a community that will be the envy of friends and family, look no further than Ballwin Missouri. The city not only offers a great variety of homes, but can also boast to making the list as one of the best places to live in Money Magazine. So good is the quality of life here that people don’t seem to want to leave on their own accord; 59% of Ballwin residents lived in the same house 5 years ago.

Ballwin doesn’t just offer great outdoors and many homes to choose from; there are also condos available

Missouri is famous for the beautiful landscape in which it is set and the city of Ballwin has fantastic outdoor activities for its residents for this very reason. Five parks offer the community a wide selection with the added benefit of a special resident’s rate to access the amenities.

Vlasis Park is the biggest park in Ballwin. With a total size of 31 acres it boasts walking paths, many different sporting facilities, and ponds stocked with plenty of catfish and trout in winter. Vlasis Park also plays host to the “Ballwin Days” festival, one of the largest community events in the St. Louis Area, attracting 60,000 visitors to the three day event. Activities include a parade, live entertainment, sporting events, and game booths.

Ballwin doesn’t just offer great outdoors and many homes to choose from; there are also condos available. Sizes start out at below 1,000 sq ft right up to luxury condos of more than 3,000 sq ft.

Single family homes for sale in Ballwin also range in similar sizes to that of condos, ranging from just over 1,000 sq ft up to 5 bedroom mansions of more than 4,000 sq ft. Homes often offer magnificent views of the surrounding countryside, with homes located on lots up to half an acre in size. This is more country lifestyle than that of a city dweller.

The great variety of homes and condos for sale in Ballwin can make house hunting a challenge because of all the options that are available. Does the idea of getting in touch with different agents who want to show you lots of homes when all you want to do is check the price, tire you out even before you begun?

Here’s how we make narrowing the options down so much easier. Take the first step to finding the right home in Ballwin today with our innovative Hot List. You will receive instant access to ALL of the great properties that are available. It takes less than 30 seconds to get started today when you fill out the form below.

stabilizing. As you will have seen all the factors lead up to an improved real estate market with a result that home prices are stabilizing.

If you have been cautious about buying a home in the current market you can now feel secure that you won’t lose your money by buying too soon. If anything, you might lose out by not buying soon enough.

Now, I invite you to discover the many great homes for sale throughout West County from Wildwood, Chesterfield and more with our innovative Hot List. See what properties are available today and be instantly notified as soon as new listings become available.

Filed Under: Ballwin Homes, Ballwin Real Estate Tagged With: Ballwin Condos, Ballwin Home buyers

What Positive Employment Data Means For The Real Estate Market

January 4, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

The national unemployment rate is at its lowest level since March 2009 when the financial crisis really started to sink its teeth in. More important than a single statistic though, is the fact that the economy has generated 100,000 or more jobs for five months in a row. This is the first time to happen since April 2006, well before the recession started.

Missouri’s unemployment rate in October was still unacceptably high at 8.5% and we’d be lying if we said everything’s rosy, but here are a couple of reasons why we think the outlook is quite positive:

Private firms will make the economy work again. The growth in job numbers came from private enterprise – a total of 140,000 jobs in total. If firms are hiring again, it means they see themselves making enough profit in future to cover their employees’ salaries.

The outlook for banks is positive. With more Americans being employed, more of them will be able to repay their mortgages. Lenders will therefore be able to grant more loans and grow their business again.

The real estate market will further stabilize. Fewer homes will go on foreclosure if more people are able to repay their mortgages. With fewer sellers being forced to sell their homes, there will be fewer homes available on the market. Homes that are on the market will again begin to be predominantly those that would in the normal course of events be put up for sale, for instance families needing to move house.

Higher employment and home ownership create better neighborhoods. When employment rates are higher, crime rates tend to be lower and if neighborhoods improve, prices stabilize before growth finally returns.

There will be good opportunities to buy homes at good value. While it might start to look positive for the economy and the real estate market, any growth that does come will do so in the longer term.
Investing in real estate now is more secure than ever in the last four years.

Now is a great time to prepare for the rewards that will later follow in the market. When you start looking for a home in West St. Louis County, you will find a great number of quality homes available. Finding out just which ones match your specific needs is easy. Simply fill in the form below and we’ll send you a list of the latest homes on sale now!

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Home Sales Are Up And 5 Other Reasons Why Real Estate Won’t Let You Down

January 3, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

There was more good news when it was revealed that the number of pending home sales have continued their increase in the last month. It’s not just the increase that will make homeowners and potential buyers happy; pending home sales are at their highest level since the housing crisis started three years ago.

There are still more positive signs for the real estate market if you already are a homeowner or if you want to become a Ballwin homeowner. As you’ll see, it’s not just blind optimism speaking, here are five more reasons that the worst might be behind us:

There are still more positive signs for the real estate market if you already are a homeowner

Not just home sales are up, but also housing starts have increased to its highest level in almost two years. In some cases it finally makes financial sense again for developers to start building new homes. This is a positive indication that normal market behavior is starting to take place again.

Broadly speaking the economic outlook is positive. Officially the recession has ended, meaning the economy is no longer contracting. This year moderate economic growth looks likely, supported by strong exports. This means the value of your assets is safe.

Unemployment figures are continuing to improve. It might be slow improvement, but it is improvement across most sectors nonetheless. Better employment figures means consumer spending improves, which in turn helps the economy grow and this again creates more jobs.

The number of distressed sellers has been consistently decreasing throughout the second half of last year. As more people regain employment, the repayment of mortgages also improved. It leads to a stronger real estate market where home values are maintained.

Home prices are stabilizing. As you will have seen all the factors lead up to an improved real estate market with a result that home prices are stabilizing.