My son came home from city hall with the following "The Legacy of Lafayette" and I thought it would be nice to share.
Note: During the revolutionary war there was a French man named Marquis De LaFayette who helped America win the war.
THE LEGACY OF LAFAYETTE
When he came to America in 1777, LaFayette was more interested in fighting the English to avenge the death of his father than he was in the ideals of democracy. That soon change when he worked and fought alongside the founding father of our country, such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin. Lafayette also learned much from two close friends that he made: Alexander Hamilton and John Laurans. They debated topics such as the nature of justice, the role of the government and the responsibilities of the individual. LaFayette came to understand that he was fighting for more than just America's seperation from England; he was fighting for the creation of a new era in world history where people could be governed by a rule of law rather than a tyrant's whim, a world where all people would be considered as equals before the law.
LaFayette came to understand that prejudice based on religion was wrong. When he left France in 1777. France recognized only one religion and persecuted all others. When LaFayette returned to France, he was able to secure state recognition of the Protestant religion. LaFayette also had a complete change of heart about racial prejudice. When he first came to America, he had a plan to buy and sell slaves; when he left America in 1885 he set up and funded an organization in French Guyana to free enslaved Africans.
LaFayette learned another very important lesson: education is not confined only to school-we continue to learn from each other and from our experiences throughout our lives. He discovered that simply winning the Revoluntionary War did not create democracy. Democracy requires the work and committment of all of its citizens, and it needs to constantly evolve to keep up with changes in society technology and circumstances. LaFayette left us a legacy of freedom-it is our job to keep it.
America love LaFayette. More than 600 villages, towns, cities, countries, mountains, lakes, rivers, educational institutions, and other landmarks were named for him, or for his chateau at La Grange. LaFayette loved America. He carried a box of dirt from Bunker Hill, site of the first major battle of the American Revolution, home with him to France. LaFayette left instructions that, when he died, this dirt must be placed in his grave so that he could be buried in American as well as French soil, and an American flag has flown over his grave for over 170 years.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
A Market in Harmony by Bill Bacque' CEO Van Eaton & Romero
June 2011 real estate market statistics find us in a state of synchronization rather than anomaly. In juxtaposition to 2010, when as a result of the Federal tax credit, home sales shot up from March through June and then cratered for most of the
remainder of the year, our local market has sustained a remarkable level of
normalcy during 2011. This is exemplified by the 219 closed residential sales totaling $41,057,718 in closed dollar volume reported for June 2011. While
underperforming June 2010’s numbers by 22%, June was the culminating month of last year’s tax credit surge. The number of pending residential sales best
reflects the “normalcy” of this year’s market. With 203 homes in contractual stages, June, as well as April, exemplify the steady momentum of pending sales that we we’ve enjoyed all year versus the “rollercoaster” effect that last year’s limited stimulus
created. June’s 21% increase in number of pending sales was complimented by a 28% increase in the corresponding dollar volume of those pending sales. This is reflective of the uptick in upper end buyers ($300,000 and up) that we have experienced during 2011.
In that same spirit of normalcy, the local market is experiencing near harmony in the listing/selling cycle. The ideal ratio of new listings to sold homes
is 1:1 — that means for every home listed, another one is sold. While many of the nation’s markets are seeing ratios that reach 6:1 and beyond, Lafayette
Parish has maintained a ratio below 2:1 with June 2011 at 1.65:1 ratio. Even though we are not experiencing a perfect equilibrium of listings to sales, we’re close enough to admit comfort. As we cross the halfway mark of 2011, the Lafayette
Parish housing market appears primed to retain the level of harmony we have come to expect.
To receive a copy of our latest Acadiana Residential Real
Estate Report, call Kisha Kana @ 337.255.5884 or email Kisha@KishaKana.com
remainder of the year, our local market has sustained a remarkable level of
normalcy during 2011. This is exemplified by the 219 closed residential sales totaling $41,057,718 in closed dollar volume reported for June 2011. While
underperforming June 2010’s numbers by 22%, June was the culminating month of last year’s tax credit surge. The number of pending residential sales best
reflects the “normalcy” of this year’s market. With 203 homes in contractual stages, June, as well as April, exemplify the steady momentum of pending sales that we we’ve enjoyed all year versus the “rollercoaster” effect that last year’s limited stimulus
created. June’s 21% increase in number of pending sales was complimented by a 28% increase in the corresponding dollar volume of those pending sales. This is reflective of the uptick in upper end buyers ($300,000 and up) that we have experienced during 2011.
In that same spirit of normalcy, the local market is experiencing near harmony in the listing/selling cycle. The ideal ratio of new listings to sold homes
is 1:1 — that means for every home listed, another one is sold. While many of the nation’s markets are seeing ratios that reach 6:1 and beyond, Lafayette
Parish has maintained a ratio below 2:1 with June 2011 at 1.65:1 ratio. Even though we are not experiencing a perfect equilibrium of listings to sales, we’re close enough to admit comfort. As we cross the halfway mark of 2011, the Lafayette
Parish housing market appears primed to retain the level of harmony we have come to expect.
To receive a copy of our latest Acadiana Residential Real
Estate Report, call Kisha Kana @ 337.255.5884 or email Kisha@KishaKana.com
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Market Analysis April 2011
In coming the reported home sales to MLS is all of Acadiana for April 2011 to April 2010, seems like it's taking 23 days longer to sell a home and they are selling at 95.29% of the list price. That's a drop down from 2010's 97.13%. Good news is that the average sales price increased by 1.54% bringing it up to $166,234.
For a full report from Van Eaton & Romero, please email Kisha@KishaKana.com
For a full report from Van Eaton & Romero, please email Kisha@KishaKana.com
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
March 2011 Residential Market Stats
• Acadiana home sales fell 10.5% in March, with the REALTOR Association of Acadiana Multiple Listing Service reporting 289 sales in the nine-parish area compared with 323 reported in March of 2010. While the annual monthly count declined, the month-to-month sales increased from February to March 2011 by just under 28%, indicating that demand is picking up as we head into our traditional spring and summer peak selling season. For the first quarter of 2011 total home sales are nearly equal to the number reported in 2010 (Page 1).
• In Lafayette Parish the home sale numbers are a bit bleaker. March 2011 home sales reported (171) were 18.6% below March 2010 (210), although the month-to-month (February to March 2011) sales showed a robust increase of 19.6%. Cumulative 2011 Lafayette Parish home sales (427) are 8.8% below 2010 first quarter sales (468). The bulk of that decline is in new construction sales with a drop of 17.76% while re-sales dropped by 4.43% (Page 2). This first quarter underperformance has to be viewed in light of what was driving home sales in the first half of 2010 – the federal tax credits. In 2010 home sale demand was pushed into the first half of the year in order to take advantage of the tax credit. Once they expired in June 2010, home sales plummeted for the remainder of the year. Amid that backdrop, an underperformance in the first half of 2010 was virtually guaranteed. In observing the graph found on page 2 of this report, one can visually see the impact of the tax credits and the corresponding drop once they expired. The fact that new construction has seen the largest percentage drop in 2011 is also not surprising considering that it was the beneficiary of much of the demand spurred by the tax credits with 2010 new construction sales increasing nearly 10.5% over 2009.
• Despite the drop in demand, Lafayette Parish home values continue to perform surprisingly well. Page 4 of the report shows that the average sale price of a Lafayette Parish home for the first quarter of 2011 was $189,163 as compared to $189,771 for the same period in 2010. That is a decline of only three-tenths of one percent. The median sale price as of March 2011 was $164,000 compared to $166,400 as of March 2010; a decline of 1.44%.
• While March 2011 pending sales (those homes that went under contract), were below March 2010, they are substantially above the 2010 levels shown in the months after the contract deadline date for the 2010 tax credit which was April 2010 (Page 6).
• When studying the balance between current demand and supply in Lafayette Parish, the reports on pages 15-17 reveal much as to what is currently being sold versus what is listed for sale. Page 15 deals with all home sales reported in Lafayette Parish. Page 16 looks at just new construction while Page 17 highlights re-sales. In looking at page 15, the first point to note is that the number of home sales in the $150,000 - $299,999 range is where all of the drop in demand is centered (-20.68% from 2010). Again, that’s somewhat understandable inasmuch as this was the price range that saw the greatest increase last year due to the tax credits. Overall the number of month’s supply of housing in Lafayette has increased from 7.7 months in March of 2010 to 8.8 months in 2011.
• Page 16 reveals that re-sale buyer demand has declined not only in the mid-range $150,000 - $299,999, but also in the upper-range ($300,000 and up) and that the total number of month’s supply has grown from 8.2 months in 2010 to 9.2 months in 2011.
• Page 17 depicts the new construction market. Here we see that the mid-range home demand has declined substantially (-30.97%) but in the upper-end, particularly the $300,000 - $400,000 range, buyer demand has risen strongly over 2010 levels.
The bottom line is that just as in all aspects of life, the Acadiana housing market numbers contain both good and bad. Whichever area you wish to gravitate to, you’ll find what you’re looking for. I see our market as resilient and in pretty good shape considering the 2010 benchmarks we are forced to compete with. I believe it could be the end of the third quarter of this year before we will really be able to forecast our 2011 housing market performance in comparison to 2010. With the current level of pending sale activity, I remain optimistic.
William J. "Bill" Bacque
Chief Executive Officer
***for a copy of the full report, please email Kisha@KishaKana.com
• In Lafayette Parish the home sale numbers are a bit bleaker. March 2011 home sales reported (171) were 18.6% below March 2010 (210), although the month-to-month (February to March 2011) sales showed a robust increase of 19.6%. Cumulative 2011 Lafayette Parish home sales (427) are 8.8% below 2010 first quarter sales (468). The bulk of that decline is in new construction sales with a drop of 17.76% while re-sales dropped by 4.43% (Page 2). This first quarter underperformance has to be viewed in light of what was driving home sales in the first half of 2010 – the federal tax credits. In 2010 home sale demand was pushed into the first half of the year in order to take advantage of the tax credit. Once they expired in June 2010, home sales plummeted for the remainder of the year. Amid that backdrop, an underperformance in the first half of 2010 was virtually guaranteed. In observing the graph found on page 2 of this report, one can visually see the impact of the tax credits and the corresponding drop once they expired. The fact that new construction has seen the largest percentage drop in 2011 is also not surprising considering that it was the beneficiary of much of the demand spurred by the tax credits with 2010 new construction sales increasing nearly 10.5% over 2009.
• Despite the drop in demand, Lafayette Parish home values continue to perform surprisingly well. Page 4 of the report shows that the average sale price of a Lafayette Parish home for the first quarter of 2011 was $189,163 as compared to $189,771 for the same period in 2010. That is a decline of only three-tenths of one percent. The median sale price as of March 2011 was $164,000 compared to $166,400 as of March 2010; a decline of 1.44%.
• While March 2011 pending sales (those homes that went under contract), were below March 2010, they are substantially above the 2010 levels shown in the months after the contract deadline date for the 2010 tax credit which was April 2010 (Page 6).
• When studying the balance between current demand and supply in Lafayette Parish, the reports on pages 15-17 reveal much as to what is currently being sold versus what is listed for sale. Page 15 deals with all home sales reported in Lafayette Parish. Page 16 looks at just new construction while Page 17 highlights re-sales. In looking at page 15, the first point to note is that the number of home sales in the $150,000 - $299,999 range is where all of the drop in demand is centered (-20.68% from 2010). Again, that’s somewhat understandable inasmuch as this was the price range that saw the greatest increase last year due to the tax credits. Overall the number of month’s supply of housing in Lafayette has increased from 7.7 months in March of 2010 to 8.8 months in 2011.
• Page 16 reveals that re-sale buyer demand has declined not only in the mid-range $150,000 - $299,999, but also in the upper-range ($300,000 and up) and that the total number of month’s supply has grown from 8.2 months in 2010 to 9.2 months in 2011.
• Page 17 depicts the new construction market. Here we see that the mid-range home demand has declined substantially (-30.97%) but in the upper-end, particularly the $300,000 - $400,000 range, buyer demand has risen strongly over 2010 levels.
The bottom line is that just as in all aspects of life, the Acadiana housing market numbers contain both good and bad. Whichever area you wish to gravitate to, you’ll find what you’re looking for. I see our market as resilient and in pretty good shape considering the 2010 benchmarks we are forced to compete with. I believe it could be the end of the third quarter of this year before we will really be able to forecast our 2011 housing market performance in comparison to 2010. With the current level of pending sale activity, I remain optimistic.
William J. "Bill" Bacque
Chief Executive Officer
***for a copy of the full report, please email Kisha@KishaKana.com
Friday, March 18, 2011
The Truth about Foreclosure Sales
Many people believe that they can get a great deal on a foreclosure sale. They can! But not near what most people imagine. You won't get a home for half or less than what it's worth. The majority of the time, repairs will need to be done as most bank repos are sold 'as is' with no repairs. If you are a buyer with financing, it's even tougher to buy a foreclosed home (especially with Rural Development, FHA or VA financing). There are some gems that qualify, but cash buyers take on most of the foreclosed market.
Below is an article I came across that gives the reality of foreclosed sales in the U.S. They also provided stats on each state. Although I won't list all the states here, you can email Kisha@KishaKana.com if you'd like to see them.
LOUISIANA: Foreclosures made up 9.70% of sales (2,524) in 2010 That is a -4.36 decrease from 2009. The average sales price for a forclosed property was $131,574. The average discounted price is 25.15%.
RealtyTrac: 1 in 4 sales is a foreclosure
By Inman_News
Created 2011-02-23 21:00
Foreclosure sales accounted for 26 percent of U.S. home sales in 2010, with those properties selling for more than 28 percent less, on average, than homes not in the foreclosure process, data aggregator RealtyTrac said in its latest report .
A total of 831,574 U.S. residential properties either owned by banks or in some stage of foreclosure sold to third parties in 2010, a decrease of 31 percent from 2009 and a decrease of nearly 14 percent from 2008, RealtyTrac said.
Homes in foreclosure accounted for a larger percentage of sales in 2009 -- 29 percent -- but their share of total sales was up from 23 percent in 2008.
While controversy over loan servicers' handling of foreclosure paperwork put a dent in fourth quarter foreclosure sales, the impact of the so-called robo-signing controversy seemed to be waining in the final month of the year.
RealtyTrac recorded a total of 149,303 foreclosure sales in the fourth quarter, down 22 percent from the previous quarter and down 45 percent from the same period a year ago. That decline was in spite of a 21 percent monthly uptick in foreclosure sales volume in December.
"The catch-22 for 2011 is that while accelerating foreclosure sales will help clear the oversupply of distressed properties and return balance to the market in the long run, in the short term a high percentage of foreclosure sales will continue to weigh down home prices," said RealtyTrac CEO James Saccacio in a statement.
A total of 512,886 bank-owned (REO) properties sold to third parties in 2010 at an average discount of 36 percent, up from an average discount of 33 percent in 2009.
Another 318,688 pre-foreclosure properties -- homes in default or scheduled for auction -- sold to third parties in 2010 at an average discount of 15 percent, down from an average discount of nearly 17 percent in 2009.
Below is an article I came across that gives the reality of foreclosed sales in the U.S. They also provided stats on each state. Although I won't list all the states here, you can email Kisha@KishaKana.com if you'd like to see them.
LOUISIANA: Foreclosures made up 9.70% of sales (2,524) in 2010 That is a -4.36 decrease from 2009. The average sales price for a forclosed property was $131,574. The average discounted price is 25.15%.
RealtyTrac: 1 in 4 sales is a foreclosure
By Inman_News
Created 2011-02-23 21:00
Foreclosure sales accounted for 26 percent of U.S. home sales in 2010, with those properties selling for more than 28 percent less, on average, than homes not in the foreclosure process, data aggregator RealtyTrac said in its latest report .
A total of 831,574 U.S. residential properties either owned by banks or in some stage of foreclosure sold to third parties in 2010, a decrease of 31 percent from 2009 and a decrease of nearly 14 percent from 2008, RealtyTrac said.
Homes in foreclosure accounted for a larger percentage of sales in 2009 -- 29 percent -- but their share of total sales was up from 23 percent in 2008.
While controversy over loan servicers' handling of foreclosure paperwork put a dent in fourth quarter foreclosure sales, the impact of the so-called robo-signing controversy seemed to be waining in the final month of the year.
RealtyTrac recorded a total of 149,303 foreclosure sales in the fourth quarter, down 22 percent from the previous quarter and down 45 percent from the same period a year ago. That decline was in spite of a 21 percent monthly uptick in foreclosure sales volume in December.
"The catch-22 for 2011 is that while accelerating foreclosure sales will help clear the oversupply of distressed properties and return balance to the market in the long run, in the short term a high percentage of foreclosure sales will continue to weigh down home prices," said RealtyTrac CEO James Saccacio in a statement.
A total of 512,886 bank-owned (REO) properties sold to third parties in 2010 at an average discount of 36 percent, up from an average discount of 33 percent in 2009.
Another 318,688 pre-foreclosure properties -- homes in default or scheduled for auction -- sold to third parties in 2010 at an average discount of 15 percent, down from an average discount of nearly 17 percent in 2009.
February 2011 Market Analysis
The following is provided by Van Eaton & Romero. Information extracted from MLS sales in Acadiana.
The number of home sales increase 17.26% compared to February of 2010.
The average days on the market has increased by 8, bringing it to 120 days.
The average sales price is $161,633, which is a -3.06% decrease.
The average list to sold price ratio is 96.01%, which is a .7% decrease.
For a full report, email Kisha@KishaKana.com
The number of home sales increase 17.26% compared to February of 2010.
The average days on the market has increased by 8, bringing it to 120 days.
The average sales price is $161,633, which is a -3.06% decrease.
The average list to sold price ratio is 96.01%, which is a .7% decrease.
For a full report, email Kisha@KishaKana.com
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Tidbits on Mardi Gras
For those of you who are not from Southern Louisiana (or an area that celebrates Mardi Gras) first off, you must experience Mardi Gras if you haven't already. It is quite the spectacule. Of course, New Orleans is wild, crazy and fun! But Lafayette, in my opinion, is best for families.
Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday". Although widely celebrated by non-Catholics, it is a Roman Catholic tradition. It occurs every year on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (which kicks off Lent, a time of fasting/abstinence for spiritual cleansing and respect for Jesus' suffering on the cross, lasting until Easter) Typically occuring sometime in February or March, the turn of the new year usually kicks off with various Mardi Gras balls. The balls are in mock-wedding fashion with the court 'walking down the aisle' as they are presented. A King and Queen reins over the court. Tuxedo and Ball Gowns are worn by both court and guest. In order to attend, you must be invited by the organization putting on the ball.
But no invitation is needed for parades! Parades consists of floats sponsored by Krewes (organizations that puts on parades and/or balls) and business and marching bands from schools in the state. A variety of items are thrown from the parades to awaiting patrons but the most prominent is beaded necklaces. One might think it's silly to stand at the baracaded streets for hours in hopes of catching cheap plastic beads. And it is! But that's the point! The world is filled with heartache, disappointment, stress, hardship and all that can go wrong. We have responsibilities that make us all too serious the majority of the time. Mardi Gras is our time to be silly. It's a day when you can where whatever you want to wear....you can dress down, you can dress up or you can dress ridiculous. It doesn't matter, everyone's goal for the day is eat,drink and be merry......and collecting as many cheap plastic beads as you can! It is so exciting to feel the beads slide through your fingers and in the palm of your hand. Even more exciting if you can get the attention of a person riding on a float to throw you something 'special'. There is also a fair at Cajunfield in Lafayette with carnival rides and Downtown area has stages with bands. It is really a good time, for people of all ages. For those of you that live here but arean't really into Mardi Gras, hey..at least you get a day off!
Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday". Although widely celebrated by non-Catholics, it is a Roman Catholic tradition. It occurs every year on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (which kicks off Lent, a time of fasting/abstinence for spiritual cleansing and respect for Jesus' suffering on the cross, lasting until Easter) Typically occuring sometime in February or March, the turn of the new year usually kicks off with various Mardi Gras balls. The balls are in mock-wedding fashion with the court 'walking down the aisle' as they are presented. A King and Queen reins over the court. Tuxedo and Ball Gowns are worn by both court and guest. In order to attend, you must be invited by the organization putting on the ball.
But no invitation is needed for parades! Parades consists of floats sponsored by Krewes (organizations that puts on parades and/or balls) and business and marching bands from schools in the state. A variety of items are thrown from the parades to awaiting patrons but the most prominent is beaded necklaces. One might think it's silly to stand at the baracaded streets for hours in hopes of catching cheap plastic beads. And it is! But that's the point! The world is filled with heartache, disappointment, stress, hardship and all that can go wrong. We have responsibilities that make us all too serious the majority of the time. Mardi Gras is our time to be silly. It's a day when you can where whatever you want to wear....you can dress down, you can dress up or you can dress ridiculous. It doesn't matter, everyone's goal for the day is eat,drink and be merry......and collecting as many cheap plastic beads as you can! It is so exciting to feel the beads slide through your fingers and in the palm of your hand. Even more exciting if you can get the attention of a person riding on a float to throw you something 'special'. There is also a fair at Cajunfield in Lafayette with carnival rides and Downtown area has stages with bands. It is really a good time, for people of all ages. For those of you that live here but arean't really into Mardi Gras, hey..at least you get a day off!
Friday, February 25, 2011
2011 Acadiana Parade Schedule
February 26
Krewe des Chiens Parade
Downtown, Lafayette. Costume contest at noon, parade at 2 p.m.
www.paradefordogs.com.
Krewe of Carnivale en Rio Parada
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. Lafayette's newest krewe parades with spectacular new floats and nearly 600 riders armed with over 60 tons of the coolest collection of beads and throws. 337-984-6522,
www.kreweofrio.co.
February 27
Courir de Mardi Gras - Old-Fashion Mardi Gras Run
Vermilionville, 300 Fisher Rd., 10:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lafayette. The Basile Mardi Gras Association returns to stir up mischief and fun by bringing their country Mardi Gras to the city. On Sunday, they will bring many of their deep-rooted traditions including costumes and begging for gumbo ingredients in a tradition "run" through the historic village. After the run, gumbo will be available for purchase. Don't miss out on the king cake demonstration at 12:30 p.m. or the Lafayette Rhythm Devils performance that afternoon at 1 p.m. Adults - $8, Senior Citizens - $6.50, Children - $5, Under 6 yrs. - FREE, Memberships honored. AAA Members receive $1.00-OFF admission. 337-233-4077, www.vermilionville.com.
Scott Mardi Gras Parade
1 p.m. 337-269-5155 www.scottlouisiana.org.
March 4
Friday Night Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. Featuring multiple krewes from the Greater Southwest Mardi Gras Association. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 4-8
Le Festival de Mardi Gras a Lafayette
Cajun Field, Lafayette. Presented by the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association, the festival includes an exciting carnival midway, native Cajun foods and an outstanding line-up of live entertainment. To make the festival a complete Mardi Gras experience, all of Lafayette?s parades roll through the festival grounds. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 5
Carencro Mardi Gras Parade
Downtown, Carencro. 11 a.m. Organized by the Carencro Mardi Gras Association, the parade begins at Carencro High School. 337-896-4147.
Children's Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 12:30 p.m. Featuring Greater Southwest Mardi Gras Association children's krewes. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
Youngsville Mardi Gras Parade *the Real Estate GoGetters will be on a float in this parade! Let us know where you will be standing and we’ll try to throw you something!*
Public Works building to Fountain View, Youngsville. 1 p.m. 337-856-4181.
Krewe of Bonaparte Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 6:30 p.m. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 7 ~ Lundi Gras
Queen's Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 6 p.m. Celebrating Queen Evangeline and her Court. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 8 ~ Mardi Gras Day!
King's Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 10 a.m. Celebrating King Gabriel, who reigns over the Lafayette Mardi Gras. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 1 p.m. Celebrating King Toussaint L'Ouverture and Queen Suzanne Simmone. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.Lafayette.Travel.
Fox 15 Independent Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 2 p.m. 337-237-1500, www.gomardigras.com.
Krewe des Chiens Parade
Downtown, Lafayette. Costume contest at noon, parade at 2 p.m.
www.paradefordogs.com.
Krewe of Carnivale en Rio Parada
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. Lafayette's newest krewe parades with spectacular new floats and nearly 600 riders armed with over 60 tons of the coolest collection of beads and throws. 337-984-6522,
www.kreweofrio.co.
February 27
Courir de Mardi Gras - Old-Fashion Mardi Gras Run
Vermilionville, 300 Fisher Rd., 10:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lafayette. The Basile Mardi Gras Association returns to stir up mischief and fun by bringing their country Mardi Gras to the city. On Sunday, they will bring many of their deep-rooted traditions including costumes and begging for gumbo ingredients in a tradition "run" through the historic village. After the run, gumbo will be available for purchase. Don't miss out on the king cake demonstration at 12:30 p.m. or the Lafayette Rhythm Devils performance that afternoon at 1 p.m. Adults - $8, Senior Citizens - $6.50, Children - $5, Under 6 yrs. - FREE, Memberships honored. AAA Members receive $1.00-OFF admission. 337-233-4077, www.vermilionville.com.
Scott Mardi Gras Parade
1 p.m. 337-269-5155 www.scottlouisiana.org.
March 4
Friday Night Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. Featuring multiple krewes from the Greater Southwest Mardi Gras Association. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 4-8
Le Festival de Mardi Gras a Lafayette
Cajun Field, Lafayette. Presented by the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association, the festival includes an exciting carnival midway, native Cajun foods and an outstanding line-up of live entertainment. To make the festival a complete Mardi Gras experience, all of Lafayette?s parades roll through the festival grounds. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 5
Carencro Mardi Gras Parade
Downtown, Carencro. 11 a.m. Organized by the Carencro Mardi Gras Association, the parade begins at Carencro High School. 337-896-4147.
Children's Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 12:30 p.m. Featuring Greater Southwest Mardi Gras Association children's krewes. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
Youngsville Mardi Gras Parade *the Real Estate GoGetters will be on a float in this parade! Let us know where you will be standing and we’ll try to throw you something!*
Public Works building to Fountain View, Youngsville. 1 p.m. 337-856-4181.
Krewe of Bonaparte Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 6:30 p.m. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 7 ~ Lundi Gras
Queen's Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 6 p.m. Celebrating Queen Evangeline and her Court. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
March 8 ~ Mardi Gras Day!
King's Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 10 a.m. Celebrating King Gabriel, who reigns over the Lafayette Mardi Gras. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.gomardigras.com.
Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 1 p.m. Celebrating King Toussaint L'Ouverture and Queen Suzanne Simmone. 337-232-3737, 800-346-1958, www.Lafayette.Travel.
Fox 15 Independent Parade
Downtown to Cajun Field, Lafayette. 2 p.m. 337-237-1500, www.gomardigras.com.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
What to look for in a buyer's agent
Excerpts from an article written By Reno Berkeley
Real estate agents may work exclusively with buyers or may switch between sellers and buyers, depending on preference. In some states, real estate agents must also work under a licensed broker. When you choose a buyer's agent, there are a number of things to look for to make your experience more pleasant and less stressful.
A Clear Cut Contract
Your buyer agent should offer you a contract that is clear and concise. Most agents do not require a retaining fee to work with you. The reason for this is because the agent will receive a percentage of the sales price from the selling agent. Some buyer's agents, however, do require a fee to work with you, and this should be delineated within the contract. The agent should also be upfront about any fees charged before you sign any paperwork. A fee or a lack thereof does not necessarily indicate an agent's skill or experience, and depending on your locale, a retainer may or may not be the norm.
Experience and Knowledge
A buyer agent should know how to do the following: locate and assess properties in your chosen price range, decide on the best offer amount based on fair market value, develop a negotiating strategy with you and prepare a purchase contract. Buyer agents should have your best interest in mind. Therefore, once a property is under contract, the buyer's agent should recommend the best home inspector for you if you don't already have one, and walk through the home herself to determine possible issues with the property.
Strong Credentials
•Buyer agents should have strong credentials that set them apart from uncertified agents or those without certain designations. For example, if you are looking for a home in a certain neighborhood, your best bet is to find an agent who is a neighborhood or residential specialist for that area. Most real estate agents are also Realtors. In order to be one, the agent must have a GRI designation, meaning "Graduate Realtor Institute." This entails more training and knowledge than agents who do not have this designation. Buyer agents who come with referrals from previous clients can also be a good indication of the level of service you will receive during your home search.
Real estate agents may work exclusively with buyers or may switch between sellers and buyers, depending on preference. In some states, real estate agents must also work under a licensed broker. When you choose a buyer's agent, there are a number of things to look for to make your experience more pleasant and less stressful.
A Clear Cut Contract
Your buyer agent should offer you a contract that is clear and concise. Most agents do not require a retaining fee to work with you. The reason for this is because the agent will receive a percentage of the sales price from the selling agent. Some buyer's agents, however, do require a fee to work with you, and this should be delineated within the contract. The agent should also be upfront about any fees charged before you sign any paperwork. A fee or a lack thereof does not necessarily indicate an agent's skill or experience, and depending on your locale, a retainer may or may not be the norm.
Experience and Knowledge
A buyer agent should know how to do the following: locate and assess properties in your chosen price range, decide on the best offer amount based on fair market value, develop a negotiating strategy with you and prepare a purchase contract. Buyer agents should have your best interest in mind. Therefore, once a property is under contract, the buyer's agent should recommend the best home inspector for you if you don't already have one, and walk through the home herself to determine possible issues with the property.
Strong Credentials
•Buyer agents should have strong credentials that set them apart from uncertified agents or those without certain designations. For example, if you are looking for a home in a certain neighborhood, your best bet is to find an agent who is a neighborhood or residential specialist for that area. Most real estate agents are also Realtors. In order to be one, the agent must have a GRI designation, meaning "Graduate Realtor Institute." This entails more training and knowledge than agents who do not have this designation. Buyer agents who come with referrals from previous clients can also be a good indication of the level of service you will receive during your home search.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Become an educated buyer
This is an article By Rick Perkins
Stark County Asociation of Realtors
I wanted to add that as realtors we know that you want to do alot of research on your own, which is great! But you don't have to settle in dealing with whichever realtor is on the sign outside (the seller's realtor). You owe it to yourself to research realtors and find a buyer's agent who works for you, someone you trust. That buyer's agent can help you with any home on the market, regardless of what real estate company it's listed with, including for sale by owners. You just have to call your realtor first when you see something of interest. When visiting an open house, just be honest and let the seller's agent know that you have a realtor. Happy House Hunting!
With the prequalification and preapproval process behind you, now is the time to start doing your homework and taking some field trips. Consider using the remaining cold winter months to plan for your buying needs.
Become an educated buyer: Research neighborhoods, read ads and visit open houses.
If you were changing cities, the standard advice is to subscribe to the newspaper in the new town and start reading local news and classified ads to get a feeling for different neighborhoods. Although that is a good idea, you can simplify and streamline the house-hunting process by using the Internet to find a home, find a Realtor, find a neighborhood and find resources.
For local moves, you have the advantage of driving around neighborhoods that interest you and looking at lawn signs. Particularly on weekends, you will see “Open House” postings. Do not hesitate to visit open houses, as it is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the market.
Your Wish List
Making sure you end up with the right home involves figuring out what features you need, want and do not want in a home. Before starting your search, make a “wish list” to decide which features are essential, which are nice “extras,” if you happen to find them and which are completely undesirable.
The more specific you can be in what you want, the more effective your home search will be. Keep in mind, that in the end, every home purchase is a compromise. Create your own personalized “wish list” and when you are finished, share it with your Realtor-partner.
Is it close to your favorite spots?
Make a list of the activities — movies, health club, church, etc. — you engage in regularly and stores you visit frequently. See how far you would have to travel from each neighborhood you are considering to engage in your most common activities.
Check out the school district. This is especially important if you have children, but it also can affect resale value. The Ohio Department of Education can provide information on test scores, class size, percentage of students who attend college and special enrichment programs. If you have school-age children, visit schools in the neighborhoods you are considering.
Find out if the neighborhood is safe. Ask the police department for neighborhood crime statistics. Consider not only the number of crimes but also the type, such as burglaries or armed robberies, and the trend of increasing or decreasing crime. In addition, is crime in only one part of the neighborhood, such as near a retail area?
Determine if the neighborhood is economically stable. Check with the city’s economic development office to see if income and property values in the neighborhood are stable or rising. What is the percentage of homes to apartments? Apartments do not necessarily diminish value, but do mean a more transient population. Do you see vacant businesses or homes that have been for sale for months?
See if you will make money. Ask your Realtor-partner to get information about price appreciation in the neighborhood. Although past performance is no guarantee of future results, this information may give you a sense of how good of an investment your home will be. Your Realtor-partner also may be able to tell you about planned developments or other changes in the neighborhood — like a new school or highway — that might affect value.
Make personal observations. Once you have narrowed your focus to two or three neighborhoods, go there and walk around the area. Are homes tidy and well maintained? Are streets quiet? How does it feel? Pick a warm day if you can and chat with people working or playing outside.
Buying a home can be one of life’s most exciting experiences — and one of the most challenging. The more prepared you are at the outset, the less overwhelming and the buying process will be.
If you have any questions about the home buying or selling process, or if you are having trouble making your monthly mortgage payment contact a Realtor with the Stark County Association of Realtors. A Realtor will help you in the process from start to finish. Keep in mind, legal questions regarding real estate should be directed to an attorney
Stark County Asociation of Realtors
I wanted to add that as realtors we know that you want to do alot of research on your own, which is great! But you don't have to settle in dealing with whichever realtor is on the sign outside (the seller's realtor). You owe it to yourself to research realtors and find a buyer's agent who works for you, someone you trust. That buyer's agent can help you with any home on the market, regardless of what real estate company it's listed with, including for sale by owners. You just have to call your realtor first when you see something of interest. When visiting an open house, just be honest and let the seller's agent know that you have a realtor. Happy House Hunting!
With the prequalification and preapproval process behind you, now is the time to start doing your homework and taking some field trips. Consider using the remaining cold winter months to plan for your buying needs.
Become an educated buyer: Research neighborhoods, read ads and visit open houses.
If you were changing cities, the standard advice is to subscribe to the newspaper in the new town and start reading local news and classified ads to get a feeling for different neighborhoods. Although that is a good idea, you can simplify and streamline the house-hunting process by using the Internet to find a home, find a Realtor, find a neighborhood and find resources.
For local moves, you have the advantage of driving around neighborhoods that interest you and looking at lawn signs. Particularly on weekends, you will see “Open House” postings. Do not hesitate to visit open houses, as it is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the market.
Your Wish List
Making sure you end up with the right home involves figuring out what features you need, want and do not want in a home. Before starting your search, make a “wish list” to decide which features are essential, which are nice “extras,” if you happen to find them and which are completely undesirable.
The more specific you can be in what you want, the more effective your home search will be. Keep in mind, that in the end, every home purchase is a compromise. Create your own personalized “wish list” and when you are finished, share it with your Realtor-partner.
Is it close to your favorite spots?
Make a list of the activities — movies, health club, church, etc. — you engage in regularly and stores you visit frequently. See how far you would have to travel from each neighborhood you are considering to engage in your most common activities.
Check out the school district. This is especially important if you have children, but it also can affect resale value. The Ohio Department of Education can provide information on test scores, class size, percentage of students who attend college and special enrichment programs. If you have school-age children, visit schools in the neighborhoods you are considering.
Find out if the neighborhood is safe. Ask the police department for neighborhood crime statistics. Consider not only the number of crimes but also the type, such as burglaries or armed robberies, and the trend of increasing or decreasing crime. In addition, is crime in only one part of the neighborhood, such as near a retail area?
Determine if the neighborhood is economically stable. Check with the city’s economic development office to see if income and property values in the neighborhood are stable or rising. What is the percentage of homes to apartments? Apartments do not necessarily diminish value, but do mean a more transient population. Do you see vacant businesses or homes that have been for sale for months?
See if you will make money. Ask your Realtor-partner to get information about price appreciation in the neighborhood. Although past performance is no guarantee of future results, this information may give you a sense of how good of an investment your home will be. Your Realtor-partner also may be able to tell you about planned developments or other changes in the neighborhood — like a new school or highway — that might affect value.
Make personal observations. Once you have narrowed your focus to two or three neighborhoods, go there and walk around the area. Are homes tidy and well maintained? Are streets quiet? How does it feel? Pick a warm day if you can and chat with people working or playing outside.
Buying a home can be one of life’s most exciting experiences — and one of the most challenging. The more prepared you are at the outset, the less overwhelming and the buying process will be.
If you have any questions about the home buying or selling process, or if you are having trouble making your monthly mortgage payment contact a Realtor with the Stark County Association of Realtors. A Realtor will help you in the process from start to finish. Keep in mind, legal questions regarding real estate should be directed to an attorney
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