CDN and the City- a St. Louis Real Estate Blog

Hidden Gem: PW Pizza in Lafayette Square

2012-02-01T13:34:00.000-06:00

I stumbled upon a fantastic local find this week that I HAVE to share. I am about to date myself BIG TIME, though with my 20th high school reunion coming up, I have been scouting possible local locations for the main event. While out and about with the boys this week, I ran down to Lafayette Square to scope out the event rooms at Moulin, owned by the same family who owns 2 of my ALL TIME favorite local eateries: 1111 Mississippi and Vin de Set.

We stepped out of the car and BAM!

"What is that SMELL, Mama?? YUM! It almost smells like SHAKESPEARE'S!!" both of my boys exclaimed upon stepping out of the car and being accosted by the smell of pizza.

Ok, may I just say that those are some BIG shoes to fill as any good upstanding Mizzou alum will attest. Shakespeare's is not just a pizza, it is an institution. Though I concurred with what they were saying. The air around the historic Centennial Malt House complex that houses Moulin and Vin de Set was FILLED with the most lovely scent of pizza - delicious homemade pizza.

A quick turn of the head found this...

I have been to Vin de Set on numerous occasions, though evidently not since this new street level eatery was added to the complex. As it was close to dinner time, we decided to pop in for a quick bite after scoping out the Moulin venue (which by the way, was my class's choice for our event). Man, I'm glad that we did!

Owned by Paul and Wendy Hamilton and recently voted by St. Louis Magazine as one of the Top New Restaurants in St. Louis for 2011, PW Pizza features delectable hand tossed pizza made with fresh seasonal ingredients. There’s only one size (12 inches) of pizza and one thickness (medium-thin).

The environment is cozy and warm with exposed brick, an open kitchen, a friendly staff, and gorgeous original industrial architectural goodies...

The food is fresh, affordable, and delicious.

We started with the house made roasted red pepper hummus with warm, fresh baked pita...

Our dinner choice - 1/2 "Big Balls" (tomato sauce, house made meatballs, caramelized onion, green pepper, fresh basil, provolone, pecorino, romano) and 1/2 "Magherita" (tomato sauce, fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, pecorino, romano)- both with light cheese.

It was not only as good as it looks... it was BETTER. I will dare to say that this is possibly the most delicious traditional crust that I have ever eaten in St. Louis. This pie was most definitely the best pizza that I have eaten since leaving Italy.

In fact, it was so delicious that Parker called dibs on the leftovers for lunch the next day ;) ...

I cannot wait to return, plain and simple. PW Pizza is definitely a new Nenonen Family favorite.

Nitty Gritty:

PW Pizza
2017 Chouteau Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63103
314-241-7799

Sun-Thur: 11-9
Fri-Sat: 11-11

Web: http://pwpizza.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/PW-Pizza/221606534522061?sk=wall

See my past featured Hidden Gems HERE.

Numbers have been tallied...

2012-01-25T08:18:00.001-06:00

More great news! In addition to November, I was one of the top 9 agents at the Coldwell Banker Gundaker Corporate Heaquarters Sales Office for the month of December, as well!

What an unusual, yet wonderful the 4th quarter of 2011 was. I am incredibly fortunate. I currently work with a fantastic group of Buyers and Sellers and hopefully look forward to continued success in 2012.

Thank you for all of your wonderful referrals and kind words, all. Truly. I couldn't appreciate it more.

Just for Fun: Presidential Hopeful Homes

2012-01-24T09:29:00.001-06:00

Yes, it is an election year and the political media bombardment has already begun.

I saw this story on the Today show this AM and HAD to share! This is an insider's sneaky peek at the homes of some of the Presidential hopefuls. Very telling and an interesting subject matter, particularly in the midst of an economy where the housing market is also at the top of the daily headlines. Fascinating!

I apologize in advance for the (annoying) advertisement at the beginning of this video...

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

BSA- Pinewood Derby Time

2012-01-20T14:46:00.000-06:00

Yes, it is that time of year again...

Pinewood Derby Time!

Parents of Cub Scouts everywhere are scrambling to sand, paint, and weight this year's Pinewood Derby car. Some Packs see trends of more emphasis on speed. Other Packs? It is all about design, thus producing deliciously creative interpretations of everything from a hot dog to a sea creature. Our Pack, #631, sees a decent mix of the two.

The not-knowing-what-to-expect aspect of Pinewood morning is my absolute FAVORITE PART! For some parents, Pinewood is a super competitive endeavor about angles and speed tricks. Steve and I have always viewed it as pure fun, helping the boys to create their vision. Regardless, gathering to see their peers show off their hard work is always a treat for the kids.

Late last night as Steve and I attached wheels and put the parental finishing touches on Reed's 2012 Pinewood Derby car, I paused and couldn't believe that this is the ELEVENTH CAR we have completed between he and Parker.

My babies are growing up. =(

Sometimes you have to to stop and reflect to realize how far you have come (note our school photos and Halloween costumes). I thought that it would be fun to take a walk through Nenonen Pinewood Derby's Past...

Prior to getting ill, my dad was extremely involved in the boys' Pinewood cars. More skilled in woodworking, weighting, and aerodynamics... my dad assisted Parker in the design of his first 3 cars. It was "their thing" and ultimately resulted in decent placement with traditional design.

During those years, he also assisted Reed, 2 years younger, in designing cars to race in the non-Scout competition. Reed brought on an interesting trend in Casa de Nenonen as rather than a red or yellow car, he asked for a "Bat Mobile". The next year, he desired a "man eating alligator"- note the feet. So began the Nenonen quest for creativity over speed...

The next year was Reed's first official year in Scouts. Requesting a pig, my dad assisted him in designing and carving this one out of balsam wood. Sadly, this was my dad's last Pinewood involvement, though he went out with a bang! The piggy shocked us by not only placing but becoming a crowd favorite! Piggy invited a lot of "oinking" as he tore down the track. ;-)

That year, Parker decoupaged the scan of a $100 bill, painted the side to look like a stack, and thought to ask the bank for a real money band. Love this car! The penny, however, was a band-aid. During a last minute on-site weighting effort, the top was accidentally drilled through. Ack! Oops.

For Parker's last year, he opted to make it look like he didn't do a car at all, covering his with the Pinewood Derby Kit box. Steve worked closely with Reed that year and their final interpretation of Reed's requested "tree branch with a birds nest" was absolute genius in my opinion. They utilized a real log that they retrofitted over the car. I was not the only one charmed by this car, as Reed took Best in Pack that year.

Last year, Reed stated "I am thinking a coffin that opens maybe with a vampire in it". If you know Reed, that is exactly the way he talks. Go big or go home, I suppose. Ha ha. Ultimately, he did most of the work, lining the coffin with satin and and painting it himself. It also became a crowd favorite as Steve managed to add sound effects. The coffin cackled evilly when you opened it.

That brings us to this year. Reed's vision? Tom Sawyer's raft. This is what he came up with after gathering sticks, painting, a trip to the hobby shop, and 6 sticks of hot glue...

Tomorrow is the race! We'll see how it goes and then only 1 year left... =(

Just for Fun: Winter break

2012-01-18T21:11:00.001-06:00

An important conference took Steve to Florida for a long weekend. We stowed away in his luggage for a couple of days to show our support (and steal some time in the sunshine).
A peek at our quick (yet wonderful) stay:
Cocoa Beach...

Disney's Epcot...

Horsing around in the pool...

Blue Springs State Park- a natural warm spring turned winter refuge and gathering place for manatees on the St. John's river...

Exciting, exciting, exciting...

2012-01-10T09:21:00.003-06:00

I'm truly tickled pink. This is my 3rd time (and the 2nd year in a row) to be honored with this city-wide Excellence in Customer Service award- to be featured in the April 2012 edition of St. Louis Magazine.

Wonderful news and huge honor.

Honestly, the customer service part of my job is easy- I love my clients and would do anything for them. Period. Though the continued affirmation of a job-well-done feels nothing short of amazing...

Link Love: Practical Tips for Productive Living

2012-01-06T10:01:00.000-06:00

I stumbled upon this great blog post over at Practical Tips For Productive Living and felt compelled to share. Their blog is filled with fantastic, positive-living content. Love it. This particular post really stuck out to me. So much of it rings true and I found it to be excellent advice for a fresh, happy start to a New Year...

12 Things that Happy People Do Differently

by Jacob Sokol

“I’d always believed that a life of quality, enjoyment, and wisdom were my human birthright and would be automatically bestowed upon me as time passed. I never suspected that I would have to learn how to live - that there were specific disciplines and ways of seeing the world I had to master before I could awaken to a simple, happy, uncomplicated life.” -Dan Millman

Studies conducted by positivity psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky point to 12 things happy people do differently to increase their levels of happiness. These are things that we can start doing today to feel the effects of more happiness in our lives.

I want to honor and discuss each of these 12 points, because no matter what part of life’s path we’re currently traveling on, these ‘happiness habits’ will always be applicable.

Express gratitude. – When you appreciate what you have, what you have appreciates in value. Kinda cool right? So basically, being grateful for the goodness that is already evident in your life will bring you a deeper sense of happiness. And that’s without having to go out and buy anything. It makes sense. We’re gonna have a hard time ever being happy if we aren’t thankful for what we already have.

Cultivate optimism. – Winners have the ability to manufacture their own optimism. No matter what the situation, the successful diva is the chick who will always find a way to put an optimistic spin on it. She knows failure only as an opportunity to grow and learn a new lesson from life. People who think optimistically see the world as a place packed with endless opportunities, especially in trying times.

Avoid over-thinking and social comparison. – Comparing yourself to someone else can be poisonous. If we’re somehow ‘better’ than the person that we’re comparing ourselves to, it gives us an unhealthy sense of superiority. Our ego inflates – KABOOM – our inner Kanye West comes out! If we’re ‘worse’ than the person that we’re comparing ourselves to, we usually discredit the hard work that we’ve done and dismiss all the progress that we’ve made. What I’ve found is that the majority of the time this type of social comparison doesn’t stem from a healthy place. If you feel called to compare yourself to something, compare yourself to an earlier version of yourself.

Practice acts of kindness. – Performing an act of kindness releases serotonin in your brain. (Serotonin is a substance that has TREMENDOUS health benefits, including making us feel more blissful.) Selflessly helping someone is a super powerful way to feel good inside. What’s even cooler about this kindness kick is that not only will you feel better, but so will people watching the act of kindness. How extraordinary is that? Bystanders will be blessed with a release of serotonin just by watching what’s going on. A side note is that the job of most anti-depressants is to release more serotonin. Move over Pfizer, kindness is kicking ass and taking names.

Nurture social relationships. – The happiest people on the planet are the ones who have deep, meaningful relationships. Did you know studies show that people’s mortality rates are DOUBLED when they’re lonely? WHOA! There’s a warm fuzzy feeling that comes from having an active circle of good friends who you can share your experiences with. We feel connected and a part of something more meaningful than our lonesome existence.

Develop strategies for coping. – How you respond to the ‘craptastic’ moments is what shapes your character. Sometimes crap happens – it’s inevitable. Forrest Gump knows the deal. It can be hard to come up with creative solutions in the moment when manure is making its way up toward the fan. It helps to have healthy strategies for coping pre-rehearsed, on-call, and in your arsenal at your disposal.

Learn to forgive. – Harboring feelings of hatred is horrible for your well-being. You see, your mind doesn’t know the difference between past and present emotion. When you ‘hate’ someone, and you’re continuously thinking about it, those negative emotions are eating away at your immune system. You put yourself in a state of suckerism (technical term) and it stays with you throughout your day.

Increase flow experiences. – Flow is a state in which it feels like time stands still. It’s when you’re so focused on what you’re doing that you become one with the task. Action and awareness are merged. You’re not hungry, sleepy, or emotional. You’re just completely engaged in the activity that you’re doing. Nothing is distracting you or competing for your focus.

Savor life’s joys. – Deep happiness cannot exist without slowing down to enjoy the joy. It’s easy in a world of wild stimuli and omnipresent movement to forget to embrace life’s enjoyable experiences. When we neglect to appreciate, we rob the moment of its magic. It’s the simple things in life that can be the most rewarding if we remember to fully experience them.

Commit to your goals. – Being wholeheartedly dedicated to doing something comes fully-equipped with an ineffable force. Magical things start happening when we commit ourselves to doing whatever it takes to get somewhere. When you’re fully committed to doing something, you have no choice but to do that thing. Counter-intuitively, having no option – where you can’t change your mind – subconsciously makes humans happier because they know part of their purpose.

Practice spirituality. – When we practice spirituality or religion, we recognize that life is bigger than us. We surrender the silly idea that we are the mightiest thing ever. It enables us to connect to the source of all creation and embrace a connectedness with everything that exists. Some of the most accomplished people I know feel that they’re here doing work they’re “called to do.”

Take care of your body. – Taking care of your body is crucial to being the happiest person you can be. If you don’t have your physical energy in good shape, then your mental energy (your focus), your emotional energy (your feelings), and your spiritual energy (your purpose) will all be negatively affected. Did you know that studies conducted on people who were clinically depressed showed that consistent exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft? Not only that, but here’s the double whammy… Six months later, the people who participated in exercise were less likely to relapse because they had a higher sense of self-accomplishment and self-worth.

Closed last week...

2012-01-03T08:27:00.000-06:00

...183 Brightfield!

Congrats Steve and Erin!

A peek at New Years Day...

2012-01-02T10:24:00.001-06:00

A far cry from last year's unseasonable New Year's Eve tornado, January 1, 2012 was nothing but lovely. So much so, we wasted a better part of the day on the trails at Longview enjoying the perfect beginning to a brand new year.

A peek...

Happy New Years, dear readers!

This year...

2011-12-31T13:17:00.003-06:00

Learn more and teach less.
Laugh more and worry less.
Feel more and bury less.
Listen more and dictate less.
Appreciate more and criticize less,
Love more and hate less.

Thank you for the blessings, 2011. Happy New Year, Everyone.

Numbers have been tallied...

2011-12-29T13:27:00.001-06:00

... and I was named one of the top 9 producing Realtors in the Coldwell Banker Gundaker Corporate Headquarters Sales Office for the month of November!

Hidden Gem: Oprah (and Carrie) says...

2011-12-22T17:15:00.001-06:00

... you must take a day trip just 25 minutes outside of St. Louis on Highway 55 to Historic Kimmswick for a piece of the Levee- High Caramel Apple Pecan Pie from the Blue Owl.

Every year, Steve and I gift the boys a new ornament for our Christmas tree. Our favorite holiday shopping destination for the ornaments?

The Christmas Haus of Kimmswick. It is charming and epitomizes the warmth and magic of the holidays. Anyone who has been to Kimmswick, knows that it is a cardinal sin to step foot anywhere near the city without a visit to the notorious Blue Owl Restaurant. Period.

For us, it is always for a cup of the delicious white chicken chili (the recipe is HERE and it is amazing) and a piece of the Levee-high Apple Pie (recipe is HERE, though I don't have the kahunas to attempt it).

Not only did this indulgent treat make Oprah's Favorite Things List this year, it has also been touted by Food Network hard-hitters like Paula Deen. This pie is not only as good as it looks... it is better. Just be sure to bring a friend (or request a doggy bag), as 18 apples go into one pie! 2 of us couldn't even come close to finishing this piece... superb.

Yes, you read this correctly...

2011-12-22T08:43:00.002-06:00

If you donate a vehicle to the Goodwill before the 1st of the year, you will receive 1 year of free movies, compliments of Wehrenberg Movie Theaters in addition to the standard tax deduction! Vehicle donations benefit the St. Louis community by providing vocational rehabilitation services and job placement programs for those with barriers to employment.

More information about this donation program can be found HERE.

Closed yesterday: #14308 Conway Meadows Ct

2011-12-20T08:40:00.001-06:00

Deal alert: My client negotiated this uber spacious Chesterfield condo, boasting a desirable Conway Road location, 70K below the Seller's 2007 purchase price! In fact, we closed yesterday only 6k more than the original 1984 builder price.

I have said it before and I will say it again- this is the market to buy! What you may lose on your selling price, you will MORE than make up on your purchase price.

Congrats Patsy! SO excited for you... =)

What my clients are saying...

2011-12-19T07:51:00.000-06:00

My client, Dawn, was kind enough to write a client recommendation on my LinkedIn page...

"Carrie really looked out for me when I purchased my home. She not only was great to work with, but she made sure that the sales contract included language that protected my interests. The builder later went bankrupt and her foresight guaranteed that the work he agreed to complete was actually completed. I highly recommend Carrie."

Service Category: Real Estate Agent
Year first hired:       2007
Top Qualities:          Great Results, Personable, Expert

Dawn bought a fabulous Clayton condo in the Demun area, but man... the deal was tough. The owner of the complex was extremely difficult to negotiate with, though all worked out in the end.  The condo boasted the ideal location, amenities, and finishes that she sought... so we diligently worked to ensure all of the contractual documents covered any future potential issues.

In some situations, foreclosure is a blessing in disguise for condo owners. I have personally witnessed this several times over the past few years. With a super strong group of fantastic neighbors, they have successfully righted all of the wrongs made by the past owner!

Happy ending. Great friend. Miss you, Dawn!

Just for fun: I gave my kids a terrible present

2011-12-16T10:37:00.000-06:00

This is absolutely hysterical!

Hidden Gem: Amighetti's Special

2011-12-14T11:30:00.000-06:00

As a St. Louis native and daughter of parents, particularly father, who explored every nook and cranny of this city, sneered in the eye of chain restaurants in favor of the local Mom and Pop goodies, and drove us into the city from the county for almost every childhood meal out...

...this one is a no-brainer. CLASSIC St. Louis.

Founded by Louis Amighetti, an Italian immigrant, in 1921... Amighetti's is one of the most notorious landmark sandwich shops in St. Louis. While there are currently 3 locations, the Nenonens gravitate to the original location in the heart of the Hill at 5141 Wilson.

My recommendation? Visit Amighetti's for lunch with a friend, and order "The Special" to share...

Leave your diet at home for the day. Made with ham, roast beef, Genoa salami, brick cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, pepperoncini, and the secret recipe Amighetti's dressing on Italian bread baked FRESH every single morning...

... The Special is a true representation of the delight of the Hill and it's long-standing traditions.

Amighetti's can be found on the web HERE.

Just for Fun: Dancing with an iPod in Public

2011-12-07T13:14:00.000-06:00

Dear Readers- I bring you YouTube's latest video to go viral...

It's dorky, bubbly, obnoxious, and puts a smile on my face every time. Enjoy! =)

What my clients are saying...

2011-12-07T08:30:00.000-06:00

I received 2 more client recommendations on my LinkedIn page this week!

My client Nancy wrote:

“Great agent! Very proactive for the client in negotiations and knows her "business"!”

Service Category: Real Estate Agent
Year first hired:     2008 and hired you more than once
Top Qualities:        Great Results, Expert, High Integrity

This review particularly warms my heart, as she and Gary have allowed me the opportunity to work with and represent ALL THREE of their children in the purchase of their very first homes.

That is a huge honor.

I have had so much fun with their family over the years and truly appreciate the words of praise. Having gone through 3 transactions and a lot of life with them,  I enjoy their friendship and support immensely- I consider myself an honorary member of their clan! Thanks Nancy!! =)

My client Kevin wrote:

"Carrie is quite simply the best real estate professional I’ve ever come in contact with. My wife and I met Carrie while looking for our first home together in St. Louis County after many months of fruitless searching. Carrie immediately impressed us with her in-depth knowledge of the market, her attentive listening skills and her upbeat attitude. We hired Carrie on the spot! Over the next few weeks, Carrie patiently showed us a number of houses, providing honest and helpful feedback along the way. When we finally decided on our current home in Kirkwood, Carrie was instrumental in pulling comparables and coming up with a proper offer. Even after our offer was accepted, Carrie did a lot of behind the scenes work to get us to closing—at one point pushing the mortgage lender to finish up the loan documents so we could move in on schedule. We’ve been in the house for a while now, and we couldn’t be happier. I hope we never have to move again, but if we do, we’re calling Carrie!"

Service Category:   Real Estate Agent
Year first hired:      2010
Top Qualities:         Personable, Expert, High Integrity

This was one of those deals that was great from start to finish. Kevin and Gail are incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and friendly. We truly meshed from the get-go and working with them was not only a breeze, but a pleasure. The home that we found for them is just as wonderful as they are, and the words of gratitude are mutual. Thank you, Kevin!

It's beginning to look a lot like winter...

2011-12-06T13:47:00.000-06:00

I walked into the kitchen this AM, peering out on to the deck to see this...

As winter sets in, so does the holiday hustle and bustle of parties and gatherings with friends, holiday decor and music, rounding up special gifts of sentiment for those whom your love, and general frenzy as kiddies complete the 1st half of the school year and head into a long-awaited winter hiatus.

Tis the season, indeed.

Personally, over the past few weeks, we hosted a lovely Thanksgiving for friends and family (Reed helped me get the table ready)....

We shared in the heartfelt nuptials of dear friends of ours. Note their uber cool, mod cake compliments of Sugaree...

I was also SHOCKED by the wedding party caricature gift they surprised us with! Hysterical...

As a Webelo, Reed participated in another successful Scouting for Foods campaign...

I welcomed my 38th birthday, with a couple of very low-key gatherings with friends/family...

We made our annual trek to Meert's Tree Farm and chopped down a stunning Norwegian Spruce to enjoy for the holiday season...

We also snuck in a few evenings like this as a family, as the temperature plummeted...

Professionally, my busy pace continues into the 12 month of the year, and I have never felt SO humbled and thankful! This time of year, particularly in this market, proves to be difficult for the bulk of Realtors. A heartfelt THANK YOU to my dear friends, family, and clients for not only allowing me the opportunity to represent them... but for passing my name along to their own friends and family!

Over the past 2 weeks, my Buyers have written and gotten accepted contracts on #2701 Louisiana...

and a condo unit at #14308 Conway Meadows Ct...

I continue to work with 3 other active Buyers, still on the hunt for "the one" and have 3 Sellers who hurriedly prepare their homes to list with me in the New Year.

In my opinion, the holidays are the ideal time to stop, reflect, and examine where you are both personally and professionally. Time to give thanks for what worked over the past year, and make plans to change what didn't work. The fact is, I have worked harder than I ever had this year and wholeheartedly dedicated myself to both my family and real estate as I never had in the past. The hard work paid off. Sitting now at the hind end of 2011, I feel that I have achieved a healthy balance in home and work. I love them both dearly. The juggle is not always easy, but the success feels wonderful.

It is true, that with wrinkles comes wisdom. My 38th year brought a lot of conviction in who I am and where I need to focus my energy to be happy and fulfilled. My 10 year anniversary in Real Estate brings solace in the fact that I love my job, wild /wacky twists & turns and all, and could never imagine myself doing anything else.

Just for fun: Coldwell Banker's new holiday commercial

2011-11-28T10:20:00.000-06:00

This rolled out on the Gen Blue blog this AM, and I thought it was pretty funny. Sadly, we can relate! =) Ha ha. Enjoy...

Fall frenzy: climate change

2011-11-17T07:32:00.001-06:00

This has been an unusual Fall season, to say the least. Here in St. Louis, the weather was inexplicably warm, sunny, and beautiful until just a week ago. NO complaints here, as we long timers know that Old Man Winter will soon enough waive his fury leaving icy roads, traffic delays, and slippery side walks in his path.

Ironically, much like the weather... the Real Estate market has also experienced a delay in predictable shift. Just last year, I blogged about the typical forced winter hiatus for the Midwest Realtor. We had a huge discussion in the office copy room yesterday about this very topic, as agents hurriedly rushed around. Many of us have not seen a slowdown yet this year.

Extremely interesting. A welcomed surprise.

Over the past week: #11 Randy closed and #183 Brightfield again went under contract. In addition, I currently work with five active Buyers who are thankfully keeping me very busy. The fact of the matter is, real estate is still moving. Rates are low and the deals are unprecedented. A realistic Seller/Buyer, well informed about the way this unique market works, can make a HUGE move in this market and save THOUSANDS of dollars.

Is it easy? Absolutely not. There are major hurdles to overcome with bank foreclosures, Sellers who are financially strapped, Buyers who expect the moon and stars, and appraisers /inspectors who have become super, if not sometimes OVER diligent. Emotions run high in this economy. They just do. That being said, if patient and dedicated to the cause... AMAZING opportunity awaits those who choose to take the plunge into the late Fall/Winter market!

The cause of the shift in activity? Honestly, I don't know 100%. Real Estate is cyclical and the cycle has changed. Period. We all feel and experience it. I had an unusually slow beginning of year and am now experiencing an unusually busy winter. Properties ARE moving, and swiftly if the property shows well and is priced to sell. Qualified Buyers are getting WONDERFUL loan terms and even better deals.

The change has been a fun, wild ride. The negotiation, while challenging on some days, has been exciting. Interesting times, to say the least...

#183 Brightfield- Parkway South...

2011-11-08T09:05:00.000-06:00

Back on the market and OPEN this Sunday from 1-3. Pristine, updated, and move-in ready...

#183 Brightfield boasts a fabulous West County location in the reputable Parkway South School District. This 3+ bedroom/3 bath ranch home features tasteful interior décor, an open floor plan, and updates galore.

Amenities include a sizable 16x16 living room with a wood burning fireplace...

A spacious 18x12 eat-in kitchen with a walkout to the deck overlooking the fully-fenced backyard...

3 sizable main floor bedrooms and 2 updated main floor bathrooms...

The crown jewel of this property, however, is the beautifully updated basement complete with a 30x17 rec room...

A finished possible 4th bedroom ...

A spacious full bath...

An enormous walk-in closet...

A 28x11 laundry room with mega storage space and a work ...

A walkout to a lower level patio and landscaped backyard...

Rear view of the property...

Complete with a new roof (10), new concrete driveway and front walkway (10), new siding (09), New 95 Energy Star furnace (09), new flooring (09), a freshly stained deck and more… this home is the complete package and is move-in ready.

Call Carrie at 314.452.7675 for more info or a private showing!

As seen in front of Busch Stadium over the weekend...

2011-11-07T08:42:00.000-06:00

Congrats to the St. Louis Cardinals- the 2011 World Series Champs!

Link Love: Design Pattern Glossary

2011-11-03T10:02:00.000-05:00

Thank you to my friend Justin, for sharing this goody from Amy Atlas- originator of the blog "Sweet Designs".

It is a fabulous go-to guide and glossary for patterns and design...

You can also find Amy on Facebook HERE and Twitter HERE.

ALERT: 2012 Muny Announcement!

2011-11-01T19:41:00.000-05:00

America's largest and oldest outdoor musical theater has finally announced the 2012 summer show line up...

Season tickets go on sale Saturday, March 3, 2012. We'll be there, per usual!

Happy Halloween from Casa de Nenonen...

2011-10-31T08:55:00.000-05:00

What my clients are saying...

2011-10-27T09:56:00.001-05:00

I received another lovely recommendation on my LinkedIn page a couple of days ago and had to share...

“I utilized Carrie’s skills to sell my condo in the Central West End, and my experience with her exceeded my expectations of a realtor. It was clear from day one that Carrie was knowledgeable of the current market and set realistic expectations for the sale of my property. Throughout the process she was very communicative, honest and helpful about what it would take to sell the condo. I cannot imagine another realtor working any harder than Carrie did to sell the unit, hosting open houses almost weekly and constantly marketing the property. Her skill set goes far beyond market knowledge. Carrie’s marketing materials were all top-notch. The photos and flyers she created really showed the property to its maximum potential. I was also impressed by her use of social media to get the word out. Her use of blogging and other tools was no doubt imperative to the sale. In addition to Carrie’s real estate acumen, I must say she is fun to work with and was able to handle all the situations that came up with grace and poise.

I wholeheartedly recommend Carrie. When I start the process of looking for another property, rest assured, I’ll move with Carrie!”

Service Category:   Real Estate Agent
Year first hired:      2011
Top Qualities:        Personable, Expert, Creative

Thank you SO VERY MUCH for your kind words, Justin! You are the best... =)

Scenes from the Kirkwood Farmer's Market...

2011-10-25T15:47:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite places, this time of year...

For more information or hours, click HERE.

Just for Fun: Halloween Party House

2011-10-24T08:11:00.001-05:00

Homeowners are kicking it up a notch and taking it to the net, only to go viral. Had to share!

Just for Fun: Trap Door

2011-10-22T07:56:00.001-05:00

... yesterday, my client spotted a trap door in the floor of the foyer of a South City listing.

Hidden Gem: Longview Farm Park

2011-10-20T10:50:00.001-05:00

Nestled in the heart of Town and Country, at the intersection of Clayton Road and Mason Road, is one of my favorite local hidden gems!

Per the Town and Country website: Longview Farm Park is the remnant of a farm that once encompassed over 350 acres acquired directly from the United States government by the son of a pioneer settler, presumably in the 1820's. The farm was divided several times and passed through the ownership of a few families. The present farm house was originally a story and a half log cabin, thought to be from the 1870’s. By the 1920’s, the log cabin was covered by a white frame house. Through the years, several additions were added to the original house, dividing the space into various rooms and elevations.

Town and Country purchased the property in 2000. Today it is a GORGEOUS park complete with remote wooded trails along running water, horse stables, beautiful gardens, and the original farm house that is now available to host events.

Longview Farm is incredibly child/dog friendly, and our family loves it. We take Poppy there for a walk a few times/week. A peek at a typical visit...

Pure solitude.

What my clients are saying...

2011-10-19T21:27:00.000-05:00

Every time a client graciously takes the time to write a recommendation of my work, I can't help but feel sincere gratitude. I not only care deeply for my work, but the people for whom I work.

Real Estate, even 10 years later, remains my labor of love. As silly as it may sound, it is magical every time you make the perfect client/property match. The feeling never gets old, and I truly share my clients' excitement. While I always miss the daily interaction once a deal has closed, I love to watch my clients nestle into their happily ever after.

I have shared some of the kind words that clients have expressed to me in the past on the blog. Today, however, I received this lovely written recommendation from my client Judy on my LinkedIn page. It is so sweet, that I had to share...

"Carrie was great to work with when I was searching for a new residence. My daughter had used her services and highly recommended her. I was not disappointed.

Carrie used her skills as a trained Social Worker to help me find the kind of housing situation appropriate to me as part of an older retired couple seeking to downsize. She thought of us first and suggested housing that was age appropriate with ease of living features as we move into the future. She suggested properties that were more suitable to our needs and income level rather than trying to push her own listings.

She was always prompt, efficient and fair in her dealings with me. Besides, she was a lot of fun to be with! If I had been allowed, I would have checked all the boxes above as her characteristics. I highly recommend Carrie to anyone who is seeking a Realtor."

Service Category: Real Estate Agent

Year first hired: 2011
Top Qualities: Great Results, Personable, High Integrity

Thank you, thank you Judy! The feeling is completely mutual... =)

Busy, busy, busy...

2011-10-18T10:21:00.003-05:00

Blog catch up! I apologize for the brief blog hiatus, though I have been fortunate enough to be in the midst of a work Fall Frenzy. A quick catch-up...

Lovely 484 Lake, 1N in the Central West End finally closed! Being a challenging market to sell condominiums, the Seller was thrilled that it sold and the Buyer got a fabulous deal for a wonderful historic property. Win/win.

I have recently welcomed 2 new Buyers to my clientele, 1 who found me on my Twitter feed. My time with them has been a blast. Somehow, I am always fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with fun and enthusiastic people.

I have listed 2 new properties over the past week: 183 Brightfield- a meticulous West County 3+ bedroom/3 bath ranch in the Parkway South school district and 1832 McKelvey- a tidy 3 bedroom/1.5 bath Maryland Heights ranch in Parkway North.

And last but not least, I snuck in a long sunny weekend in Key West, Florida... to celebrate the nuptials of dear friends. While the sun and surf was a nice break, coming home to crisp, cool air and colorful leaves on the ground was like a breathe of fresh air.

Lovely Fall is officially here.

Just for fun: Viral video

2011-10-05T11:56:00.007-05:00

"We don't stop playing because we grow old.
We grow old because we stop playing."

~George Bernard Shaw

This viral video of Fran & Marlo Cowan (married 62 years), playing an impromptu recital together in the atrium of the Mayo Clinic, has gotten almost 8 million hits on YouTube to date.

Enjoy...

Under Contract: 11 Randy in St. Peters

2011-10-04T09:45:00.003-05:00

Many agents boast a "park-like backyard" on their MLS property listings. In this case, the description is ALL TRUTH.

My First Time Home Buyers instantly fell in love with the private acre of solitude behind this St. Peters property, and will close their starter home in mid-November! Congrats Bryan & Daenna!

Link Love: Nicki's Central West End Guide

2011-09-29T09:06:00.002-05:00

Before I became a blogger- I loved reading blogs. Period. When a blogger is truly passionate about their subject matter, it shines through in their writing and content. I stumbled upon a fellow St. Louis blog several months ago and am pretty much hooked.

For locals interested in Central West End happenings/goodies, Nicki's Central West End Guide is a MUST READ. Visually, it is incredibly interesting with pages and pages of her gorgeous photos. In addition, it is bar none the best local blog source that I have encountered for Central West End events and happenings.

Check it out and enjoy!

Weekend Happening: Olivette On The Go

2011-09-28T09:38:00.004-05:00

I have said before that I have an enormous soft spot in my heart for Olivette. Having grown up there, I attended Old Bonhomme Elementary, played little league in Stacy Park, & had my dance recitals at the Summerfest Carnival every year. Wonderful memories in a warm, family-centric community. Hence, the news of their new Fall Festival is not only exciting, but a must-attend for my family!

This weekend, the city of Olivette will host a FREE Fall festival celebrating the community. Complete with carnival rides, food from local restaurants, a beer garden, live music by the Steve Ewing of the Urge and THE Little River Band, a 5K run, a chili cook off and more... it is sure to be a blast.

Friday, September 30, 3:00-10:00 P.M.
Saturday, October 1, 12:00-10:00 P.M.
Sunday, October 2, 12:00-9:00 P.M.

Stacy Park - corner of Olive and Old Bonhomme
9750 Old Bonhomme

The full calender of events can be found HERE.

For more info: Find them on the web HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Apple season is here!

2011-09-27T10:51:00.002-05:00

A teeny peek at our annual family trek to Eckert's. This year we hit the Belleville location for Golden and Red Delicious time...

NITTY GRITTY:

Eckert's Web Site for Apple Season: http://www.eckerts.com/apple.htm

Eckert's Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/eckertfarms?ref=nf

Eckert's Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/eckertfarms

SOS: Bethlehem Lutheran Church in North St. Louis City

2011-09-25T21:15:00.004-05:00

The continued decay and depopulation of North St. Louis City has been of the utmost concern here locally for some time, and is well-documented on popular local blogs like Built St. Louis. That being said, it is difficult to understand the extent of the problem until you actually hit the streets yourself and witness the amount of decrepit and abandoned historical buildings that abound.

Every time I pass by this church, the gothic Bethlehem Lutheran Church at Salisbury and North Florissant, it just screams out to me for help. Built in 1895 and just blocks from the rebounding Hyde Park neighborhood and a stone's throw from the Arch, it is just one of the many architectural treasures in danger of being lost…

If you fill it, they will come...

2011-09-20T07:21:00.006-05:00

A couple of years ago, both Reed and I coincidentally woke up MUCH earlier than the rest of the family. As the sun came up, we sat on the front porch side-by-side and took in the beauty of the sights and sounds of a warm summer morning.

Jammies and bare feet. A steamy mug of lemon zest tea in my hand. Mother Nature at work. Bees buzzing around the hydrangeas. Cardinals and blue jays eating from the bird feeder. Woodpeckers at work in the trees of our wooded common ground, echoing through the neighborhood. The neighbor's cat lounging lazily in the sun on the sidewalk. Poppy, while contemplating a chase, opting to lounge in the grass and soak in the sights and sounds herself instead.

Few thoughts or words exchanged, we both slipped into the daze of a beautiful and peaceful morning, until... Let's put it this way, it was hovering close enough to my face that the velocity of the wings was blowing my hair. Before we realized what was happening and before we managed to react... it was gone. Vanished.

We both sat there in disbelief. Silent. A little scared. A little excited. Truly in shock until Reed finally whispered "Whoaaa. Mama, did you SEE that?"

Since that random summer morning, I have had a minor obsession with hummingbirds.

2 years later, I have 2 super active feeders and enjoy the whimsy of the hummingbirds all summer long. I had always read that if you fill it, they will come. Entirely true.

One $5 feeder from Lowe's + a very simple nectar recipe...
=

A peek at one of my feeders:

Hummingbird Nectar Recipe:

For 2 feeders, I boil 2 cups of water in a glass measuring cup. Add 1/4 cup of white sugar and stir until dissolved. A basic 4 to 1 ratio is key, no matter how much nectar you make. Let it sit on your counter top until 100% cool and then fill your feeders. I personally don't add red dye as it is not necessary with a feeder that boasts red (they are drawn to red). Change the nectar every 5 days.

NOTE: it took almost 3 weeks to get a steady flow of birds to our feeder, so don't give up.

Scenes from Venice, Italy...

2011-09-19T11:01:00.003-05:00

The second leg of our trip, found us in Venice, Italy. A teeny peek at the days spent there...
It was the trip of a lifetime. Everything you can possibly imagine Venice to be, it is and then some.

Mom- I know that you subscribe to my blog. Thank you for sharing this trip with me. The photos don't even convey the beauty of it all. Thank you so much. The only thing that could have made the trip better, would have been sharing it with dad...

Au Revoire, St. Louis...

2011-09-04T05:19:00.004-05:00

Those who know me well- friends, family, & clients- know that I lost my dad last Spring. As with anyone who loses a loved one, the last year was one of transition. My dad was the life of the party, a fantastic support system, and had a true zest for life. Hence, losing him left a hole in most around him. As he and my mom traveled the world extensively for the past 10 years or so, my mom and I thought a little getaway alone together this Fall would be nice.

First stop- Paris.

Beautiful, full of history, I was sad to leave and cannot WAIT to return. Absolutely heavenly. A few photos from our trip…

484 Lake...

2011-08-31T15:22:00.001-05:00

... SOLD. Scheduled to close in mid-October.

REDUCED TODAY: #484 Lake Ave,1N- Central West End

2011-08-24T10:33:00.000-05:00

Reduced 20K to $219,900 and a total STEAL! Previous sales were 298K in 2006 and 275K in 2002. This property is meticulous and the Seller is realistic about the market, pricing it to sell.

This gorgeous CWE condo is nestled on a majestic tree-lined street in the historic Willard Building, designed by renowned St. Louis architect, George Hellmuth Sr...

#484 Lake Avenue, 1N is the epitome of style & truly exemplifies Old World Charm with all of the modern day updates & amenities! This 2,030 SqFt condo features a 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a gracious foyer, a sizable living room & separate dining room ideal for entertaining, a private study with built-in bookshelves, a Butler’s Pantry with a wet bar, an updated eat-in kitchen, a private in-unit laundry room, a charming brick patio common area for outdoor entertaining, and a large 16x14 secure private storage locker in the basement.

What makes this property truly unique and special, however? The original architectural charm and integrity have been meticulously maintained. Authentic turn-of-the-century details are around every corner. Architectural goodies include: handsome mill work and crown molding, numerous built-ins, gorgeous marble work, pocket doors, the original hardwood floors, plantation shutters, and gorgeous antique fixtures and fittings.

Complete with fresh paint, all newer appliances included (less than 5 years old), and newer zoned a/c and furnace units… this home is the complete package! Your chance to own a little piece of history within walking distance of the Chase, Forest Park, and BJC. Pristine property & amazing location less than 10 minutes from Clayton, the airport, & downtown.

Make this motivated Seller an offer! Email me at cnenonen@cbgundaker.com or call 314.452.7675 for more information or a private showing. To view the full MLS listing, click HERE.

Week wrap up...

2011-08-23T09:52:00.000-05:00

What a week, what a week it has been! I apologize for neglecting the blog over the past week, though the shift into Fall schedule always makes for a little more road time than desk time.

The boys comfortably headed back into their normal routine as they returned to school last week... Our (involuntary) house renovation project began with the bathroom, and is progressing beautifully despite our Master bedroom being temporarily out of order...
Day 1...
Day 3...
Day 5...
I currently work with 3 active Buyers who have seen unbelievable properties/buys over the past week, we have entertained a handful of repeat visitors/continued interest on gorgeous 484 Lake, 1N, and I have a brand new listing (off of Mckelvey Road in Maryland Heights) hitting the MLS next week!

Between the swift pace that I adore and a slight break in heat as Fall approaches (hurray)... phenomenal week.

Thanks to the Muny for another great season...

2011-08-12T10:50:00.003-05:00

Sadly, the 2011 Muny season is drawing to a close... Over a beautiful (and much welcomed abnormally cool) St. Louis evening, we took in Bye, Bye Birdie under the stars in Forest Park this week.

It was the perfect evening and grand finale to another wonderful summer show season.

To the St. Louis Muny- the Nenonen Family enjoyed every moment of this summer and looks forward to next year. As a native, I have attended shows since I was in diapers. My mom has attended shows since she was in diapers. You are a family tradition and such a unique treasure to our city! Thanks for the memories...
Other locals share their memories...

Soaked up the tail end of summer at Table Rock Lake...

2011-08-11T15:20:00.006-05:00

All good things must come to an end. That's right St. Louis, it is back to school next week.

As a final hurrah to a great summer, a girlfriend and I piled the kids into the car for a few days of fun in the sun at Table Rock Lake.

A peek at our adventures...

Reduced AGAIN...

2011-08-10T12:36:00.000-05:00

... and an amazing deal!

#484 Lake, 1N has been reduced down to $239,900 with only 92 days on the market. Boasting over 2,000 sq ft, original turn-of-the-century built-ins and architectural goodies, and a Central West End location just blocks from the Chase and Straubs... a steal.

NOTE: The past 2 sales of this unit were for 298K in 2006 and 275K in 2002. It is a Buyer's Market and my motivated Seller is listening.

For a personal tour, please contact Carrie Nenonen at 314-298-5200. More photos and information can be found on the full MLS listing HERE.

Peach Season: Peach Caipirinha Recipe

2011-08-09T09:45:00.007-05:00

My favorite part of summer? The gorgeous produce! Our family loves peaches and it is that time again...Last week we hit our favorite local farm for a basket full of fresh peaches. Delish. As it is super hot outside, it was the perfect excuse to make one of my favorite refreshing summer cocktails. Thought I would share it on the blog!

If you are one of my friends/clients or if you follow my Twitter feed, you know that my husband travels quite a bit for work. As part of those travels, he goes to Brazil twice a year. A few years ago, he brought me home a bottle of the local staple and I have been hooked ever since.

Cachaca (pronounced Ca-SA-sha) is a distilled liquor popular in Brazil, made from fermented sugarcane. Tequila is to Mexico as Cachaca is to Brazil... it is everywhere. As the margarita is to Mexico, the Caipirinha (pronounced KYE-puh-REEN-ah) is to Brazil. It is the perfect marriage of sweet and sour with a blend of the smooth sweet cachaca and plenty of fresh limes.

I have been playing with cachaca for years and the Peach Caipirinha is one of my favorite concoctions.

Peel and slice 1/2 of a large peach. Add 4-5 fresh mint leaves, 2 ounces of cachaca, 1 tsp of simple syrup (or a teaspoon of sugar/stevia/splenda), and the fresh-squeezed juice of 1/2 of a lime and muddle like crazy (or food process)...
On a side note, I have a container of fresh mint on my deck and highly recommend it. It is super hearty, inexpensive, and a great addition to most summer dishes/cocktails...
After muddled, fill the glass with ice and top off with club soda. Give the drink a toss from glass to glass and top with fresh mint...

Voila!

NOTE: While you cannot find Sagatiba cachaca in St. Louis *tear*, Randall's in South City has 3-4 different brands.

Unique Property: Camp Eagle Island

2011-08-04T12:35:00.000-05:00

As the economy remains fragile, the nation witnesses more and more interesting properties hitting the market. Thanks to one of my favorite websites, Curbed, for bringing this one to my attention...

That's right dear readers, bust out your camp songs and prepare for spooky ghost stories around the campfire, as this is your chance to own a late 1800's Adirondack style Girl Scout camp in upstate New York!

So fun.

According to the Curbed site:

Camp Eagle Island boasts a stone and timber main house with 10 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, nine fireplaces, and 47,153 square feet—designed by noted Adirondack architect William L. Coulter. The private 31-acre island property sits on scenic Upper Saranac Lake in upstate New York.

The property was donated to the Girl Scout Council in 1938, where they operated the camp until 2009, when they were forced to close the doors. They are currently offering the property for sale for $3.75 million dollars. Recently, a committee has been formed named Friends of Eagle Island, who are attempting to raise enough money to save the memory-filled property.

When in doubt- shut it off!

2011-08-02T09:20:00.001-05:00

Can we all agree that life is one big yin-yang? For every wonderful part of the journey, there seems to be an underlying headache of some sort. It is part of the game- part of the delicate balance- part of the standard flow over the hills and valleys of life.

Those who are wise, learn to succumb to the rapids when the waters get rough, attempt to tolerate the motion as much as possible, and then soak in the lessons presented upon coasting into calmer waters.

The biggest lesson learned by me over 37 years of life, 14 years of marriage, 12 years of parenthood, 14 years of home ownership, and 10 years in the real estate industry? Some events are so incredibly over-the-top and ridiculous, you just have to laugh once the initial panic subsides. If you take these events too seriously, it will drive you bananas- plain and simple.

So starts my tale of the past few weeks in Casa de Nenonen. Steve had business in San Antonio. As we LOVE the city and have been there numerous times in the past sans the kids, we opted to cart them along and make a vacation out of it.

AMAZING time.

A few mobile snaps of our week...

It couldn't have been better. Truly. Phenomenal week of rest, relaxation, culture , and history with our boys.

Within 1 hour of arriving home, however, we were confronted with this....
*sigh*

To make a very long story short: we came home to a pipe burst, water actively shooting out of our Master Bathroom wall, that resulted in well over 10K worth of damage. Luckily, the damage was MINOR compared to what it could have been. Thanks to a floor vent in our Master bathroom (that acted as a drain for 3 days), our main living areas were spared as the water flowed through our duct work into the unfinished side of our basement and garage. Hallelujah.

In addition, thanks to the recent killer heat wave... my top has been UP for weeks. Hence, THIS was not the garage scenario when we left town! Whew.

The entire event was a fluke and while the pipe burst couldn't have been prevented, we made a major mistake that I feel compelled to share. One that will never be made again in this household.

Dear reader, when you leave town-- please turn off your main water valve. It takes 2 minutes and could possibly save you hours and HOURS of expense and headache.

For years, I have assisted and advised clients through household emergencies. While Steve and I haven't been fortunate enough to be 100% devoid of issues... this was by far the WORST "household surprise" that we have come home to.

Now we diligently work with contractors and the insurance company to get Humpty put back together again as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will never EVER leave town again without a visit to the main water shut-off first...

Closed this week: 849 Westgate, Unit 209

2011-07-21T22:23:00.004-05:00

Huge congrats to my client, Judy! Gorgeous unit and she got an AMAZING deal.

New St. Louis Documentary: "Brick By Chance & Fortune"

2011-07-18T11:25:00.009-05:00

Steve and I are chomping at the bits to see the new St. Louis Documentary, "Brick by Chance and Fortune". It is a feature length documentary about the past, present, and future of brick in St. Louis by local filmaker, Bill Streeter.

As I have said on numerous occasions on the blog, I am a lover of all things old. Nothing makes my heart pitter-patter more than a century old St. Louis building with its architectural beauty and integrity in tact! On the same token, I find nothing more heartbreaking than to see the degeneration that is happening in many of our downtown neighborhoods. This is a story that needs to be told!

The 1st screening will be at the St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase at the Tivoli Theatre on August 14th at 4:30PM. Hopefully, many more are to follow!

Find more information on their website HERE, on Twitter HERE, or on Facebook HERE.

Summer frenzy rolls along...

2011-07-15T08:30:00.003-05:00

I apologize for the lag in posts, though the past 3 weeks have been busy, busy, busy with the tail-end of summer frenzy, both professionally and personally.

In my time away from the blog, I have been hot and heavy negotiating these two properties...

Personally, we have fully immersed ourselves in the full-throttle fun of St. Louis summer...

Absense makes the heart grow fonder...

2011-06-24T09:34:00.003-05:00

Busy, busy busy this past week has been!

With 2 new Buyers and a lot of ground to cover/ properties to be seen, my poor blog has been somewhat neglected this week.

I promise, I will be back soon!

In the meantime, have a fabulous weekend...

Only in St. Louis...

2011-06-19T17:22:00.000-05:00

... do we serve our ice cream upside down! =)

Weekend Happening: Mid Summer Night Dance at MOBOT

2011-06-16T15:34:00.001-05:00

A Midsummer Night’s Dance

This Friday, June 17, 2011

Spend an enchanted evening at the Garden. Enjoy fresh, summery dishes, great drinks, and dancing under the stars in your best summer whites. The event features a delicious buffet, cash bar, and dancing near the fabulously lit reflecting pools.

Local artists PowerPlay will perform jazz, Motown and disco classics to complement this magical evening.

While open to the general public, reservations are required and seating is limited. Buffet, drink ticket, and gratuity are included in the ticket price.

NITTY GRITTY:

Friday, June 17

Spink Pavilion

6 to 10:00 p.m.

$60 for members
$70 for non-members

For more information, please call (314) 577-5154 or click HERE

Hidden Gem: Blues City Deli

2011-06-15T13:40:00.000-05:00

Twitter, Facebook, and local foodie review sites have blown UP over the past few months with raving reviews of Blues City Deli in Benton Park- South City. The biggest praise? The infamous muffuletta.

As Steve recently discovered (and developed a slightly abnormal obsession with) the muffuletta sandwich during our recent trip to New Orleans, I figured this to be a perfect lunch date for the two of us.

We arrived to find this...
... which I hear is a typical lunch crowd at Blues Street Deli- line out the door. Though what everyone said was correct: the line moves quickly, it is well worth the wait, and seating is not an issue.

When we pulled up to find several St. Louis City police cars and firetrucks, we grew slightly concerned. Though this...
... not only eased our mind, but guaranteed a decent lunch. 2 dozen of the city's finest is a good sign, I would say. =)

What everyone said was correct...
... the muffuletta, particularly the olive tapanade that smothers it, is fresh, delicious, made with mostly local ingredients, and large enough to feed two.

The deli itself is warm, intimate, and filled with a lot of character and interesting blues music paraphernalia.

In addition, to live up to it's name...
Yep, live music 2 days a week. Our last visit was the last week of May, so I apologize that the music calender is outdated. The latest one can be found HERE.

Overall, Blues City Deli is a total keeper and a true city gem. The menu is ENORMOUS and while it isn't exactly a ladies-who-lunch type of establishment, it a fantastic place to meet for a casual bite with friends.

Tasty food, affordable prices, and a warm /welcoming vibe. We will definitely be back and agree with the hype! Great find.

NITTY GRITTY:

Blues City Deli

Benton Park- South City

2438 McNair Avenue
Saint Louis, MO 63104
(314) 773-8225

Mon-Sat: 11AM-4PM
Thursdays: 11AM-7:45PM

Web: http://www.bluescitydeli.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Blues-City-Deli/46497833847?sk=wall
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Bluescitydeli

The Arch: Now you see it, now you don't

2011-06-15T08:31:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, my eldest spent his day downtown at the Old Courthouse earning a badge for boy scouts. He texted me this eerie photograph of the Arch. I had to share...

Just for fun: America's most expensive home- SOLD!

2011-06-14T13:41:00.004-05:00

‎22-year-old British heiress and fashion designer, Petra Ecclestone just bought Candy Spelling's mega-mansion in Beverly Hills, aka "The Manor".

On the market for $150M, the property is considered the largest private residence in Los Angeles, with 57,000-square-feet and an array of extravagances— like a gift wrapping room, the "Prince Charles suite," and a flower cutting room.

Enjoy your own private tour...

27 bathrooms. Wow. Just wow.

Family Lives in 320-Square-Foot 'Shotgun Shack'

2011-06-11T11:18:00.006-05:00

I love featuring unique properties on the blog! I stumbled upon this article and had to share, particularly as an interesting follow-up to my previous article regarding Generations Y's affinity towards smaller, more practical/green spaces.

2 years ago, Debra and her family lived in a 2,000sq ft home on over an acre of land. After her husband lost his job, they opted for an extreme choice, by purchasing a 320-square-foot shack for $15,000 cash

Early in their marriage, the couple had spent 9 years living abroad in very condensed spaces in South America. Recalling that living small hadn't felt like a sacrifice then, but rather a way to stay focused on what is important... they decided they wanted to get back to that simplicity.

Their custom-built "shotgun shack" includes a walk-in closet, conventional-sized appliances, and even a lofted bedroom for their son that, the family boasts, is big enough to host sleepovers. Amazing how far a little ingenuity can take you...

Have you hugged your Realtor today?

2011-06-08T15:08:00.001-05:00

Came home to find this wonderful surprise on my front porch today. So kind of Bob and Jan to take the time to do this. Their gratitude is appreciated and very much mutual. Made my day... had to share. =)

Free St. Louis Concert Calendar for 2011

2011-06-08T08:28:00.006-05:00

It is that season again, St. Louis! Summer concert series have begun. They are free, family-friendly, and a wonderful way to enjoy good music under the stars. Every summer, the local Bikesafe's Blog is kind enough to compile a list of free Summer concerts by date in the St. Louis area. While it may not include every free local concert, it comes pretty darn close!

Hence, if you find your evening free... grab the kiddies, a blanket, a bottle of wine, and enjoy!

My friend, Karen Goodman over at Arch City Homes, also creates a phenomenal list every summer. She sections them out by location. Check her list out HERE. Fantastic resources for free family fun all summer long!

COMING NEXT SUMMER: Chinese Lantern Festival at the Missouri Botanical Gardens (MOBOT)

2011-06-07T09:20:00.011-05:00

I am so excited to take my family to this new exhibit next summer, that I had to share:

The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis just aanounced that it will host an international exhibition of 26 larger-than-life, lighted works of art from Zigong, China in 2012 (May- August). “Lantern Festival: Art by Day, Magic by Night” attracts visitors from throughout the country to experience one of China’s most treasured events and ancient traditions – the annual lantern festival.

According to the press release: Elaborate outdoor sets crafted of silk and steel will celebrate Chinese culture through bold color, dazzling light and striking design. The exhibition is the first of its kind and size in the United States, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness a spectacle rarely staged outside of Asia.

Check it out!

Summer of 2012... can't wait!

Just for Fun: Sicka Cicadas by Kathy Ashworth

2011-06-03T20:21:00.005-05:00

A friend posted this on my Facebook wall and I had to share. Hysterical for those under Cicada attack like we are...

Summer Fun: It is Strawberry Season, St. Louis!

2011-06-03T07:57:00.004-05:00

I have said it before, and I will say it again: one of my personal favorite St. Louis hidden gems is... Open seven days a week and centrally located in Maryland Heights near Creve Coeur Lake (and a mere 5 minutes from my office - lucky me!!), the Thies Farm West location is a true hidden gem. Gorgeous produce, friendly people, convenient location! We are regulars at Thies through pumpkin season.

Anyhoo, I heard through the grapevine that the strawberries were ready for picking, so I headed over there a few days ago with my kids. A few photos from our visit...

A box-full for $3.85?! Amazing. Consider a trip there this weekend! The berries were delicious, and sadly... Strawberry Season does not last for long. Find more info HERE.

The reality: life with the 13 year cicadas

2011-06-01T10:01:00.001-05:00

After the wonder and marvel of watching them hatch a couple of weeks ago, here is the not-so-fun reality of actually living with THOUSANDS of cicadas. Taken in my yard... As for the noise? Deafening. It is going to be a LONG 4 weeks (span of mating/life cycle)...

What my Clients are saying...

2011-05-31T09:16:00.006-05:00

The best part about being a 21st century Realtor? Social media, hands down!

Platforms like Facebook, Blogger, and Twitter not only allow for thorough marketing and advertising, but are the ideal way to communicate within the industry. Thanks to social media, I have the ability to truly connect and stay in touch with clients/new friends, even after the transaction. After spending so much time with someone... you miss them. The ability to stay in touch is priceless.

Recently, two of my clients were kind enough to recommend me on my LinkedIn page. I appreciate their kind words and the time it took to do so, as no one can truly vouch for your work ethic, integrity, and abilities like your past clients. Period.

This is what they had to say...

“After working with Carrie, I completely understand why she was selected as one of St Louis' top Realtors. My purchase was a first time buy and Carrie was a much needed asset when it came to selecting the perfect home. Carrie has a wide network of contacts so she was able to get the "inside scoop" on properties we viewed and this was extremely beneficial. Carrie will be the first person I call the next time I buy or sell.”

May 31, 2011

Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert

Danielle Carr, hired Carrie as a Real Estate Agent in 2011

“Carrie is the BEST realtor I have ever worked with. She is friendly, listens to her clients, and knows the business. Carrie made the purchase of my 1st house pleasurable and stress free from start to finish.”

May 18, 2011

Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert

Mary Konnesky, hired Carrie as a Real Estate Agent in 2011

Thank you, ladies!

Summer vacation has officially arrived ...

2011-05-27T08:52:00.005-05:00

Needless to say, they are thrilled. Though, it seems like I posted this school progression photo post just yesterday... *tear*

Must see: St. Louis Documentary "The Pruitt-Igoe Myth"

2011-05-26T08:54:00.005-05:00

The city is buzzing about the latest St. Louis documentary "The Pruit-Igoe Myth: an Urban History", about one of the most notorious public housing projects ever built. The rise, fall, and lessons learned... St. Louis the stage and the nation the audience.

There are 2 more screenings available at the Tivoli Theater: Thursday, June 2nd at 7:00PM and Saturday, June 4th at 12:00 Noon.

See the film trailer below...

The film website is HERE. It can also be found of Twitter HERE and Facebook HERE.

DEAL ALERT: Summer Savings for St. Louis Families & Visitors at local attractions

2011-05-23T11:35:00.004-05:00

Ready or not, parents...

...here comes summer vacation! It may be difficult to believe, but most St. Louis public schools close out the school year this week. My boys are officially done on Friday at noon.

Man oh man, this year FLEW.

"Now what?!" seems to be the theme among our friends this week, as we pull out our date books to schedule playdates, BBQs, and activities for the next 3 months. The age old dilemma: how to keep the kids busy, happy, and stimulated without completely breaking the bank in this fragile economy.

Luckily, here in St. Louis, the possibilities for summer fun are endless. We not only have phenomenal, nationally-recognized family amenities at our fingertips (see my right sidebar under "Things To Do in St. Louis" for links), but St. Louis is unique to most cities in that the bulk of our local favorites are extremely affordable or free.

Over the past few years, St. Louis has been touted in many national publications as a great family destination. As a result, our local businesses have responded by offering deals and discounts to entice tourists.

This, friends, is a secret that I cannot WAIT to share with you as few locals know about it. Drury Hotels, often our personal go-to hotel chain when traveling with the boys as they make traveling with kids incredibly easy, offers NUMEROUS discounts to local attractions on their website.

CHECK THESE OUT, ST. LOUIS!

Available for use by visitors OR locals, they offer discounts to the Omnimax, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, the Butterfly House, the Arch Tram, Ted Drewes, 6 Flags, the Muny, Union Station Parking, the Magic House, Meramac Caverns, Purina Farms, the Missouri History Museum, the Cathedral Basilica, the City Museum, and MORE.

Excellent, EXCELLENT resource for local deals/coupons that change regularly. I, literally, use this link all summer to keep the boys happy and busy.

Told you it was good. Now, go tell your friends!

Find Drury Hotels HERE on the web, HERE on Facebook, and HERE on Twitter.

Bravo and thank you, Drury Hotels...

13 Year Cicadas have hatched here in St. Louis...

2011-05-20T09:12:00.000-05:00

The news of their pending arrival has been all over the news, though I never expected to catch the 13 year cicadas in the PROCESS of hatching in my own front yard?!

Last week, I let Poppy out just before bed. When I went outside to retrieve her, she was frantically running around the yard. A flip of the light- cicadas EVERYWHERE. THOUSANDS of them, on the ground and in the trees. I quickly retrieved the boys out of bed (hello, this only happens 1x every 13 years). Here are some of the photos that we caught in our PJs with flashlights... Looks like it is going to be one LOUD summer, St. Louis!

Current flooding of the Mississippi on the St. Louis Riverfront- UPDATE!

2011-05-18T20:30:00.006-05:00

I blogged the level of the Mississippi River flooding on the St. Louis Riverfront on May 1, 2011. This is an update, a current view as of yesterday...

The water now only covers the lower cobblestone parking on the water's edge and poor Lewis and Clark, who normally look like this. Sadly, the current view of Lewis, Clark, & their trusted companion (drowning) is one that most St. Louisans are accustomed to.

Closed this AM...

2011-05-11T09:48:00.001-05:00

... in Frontenac. Congratulations to my client, Danielle!

Just for fun: Royal Wedding

2011-05-10T14:08:00.000-05:00

I bumped into this online and had to share. Hysterical.

Weekend Happening: Cinco de Mayo on Cherokee Street

2011-05-05T10:40:00.001-05:00

This weekend is one of the city's most festive and notorious street parties...
...the 2011 Cinco de Mayo on Cherokee Street! Complete with a parade, live entertainment on two stages, margaritas /cervezas, local artists, vendors, and the most delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine in all of St. Louis...this annual fiesta is an amazing time!

NITTY GRITTY:

Saturday, May 7

11:00AM- 9:30 PM

DIRECTIONS:

From highways 40 or 44 exit at Jefferson and go South (Right). Continue South on Jefferson about 1-2 miles to Cherokee. To go towards the Festival Area make a right on Cherokee. The festival area starts at Iowa & Cherokee.

For More Info, Parade Route, and Entertainment Schedule:

http://cincodemayostl.com/

http://www.facebook.com/CincodeMayoSTL

Spring scenes from the Missouri Botanical Gardens (MOBOT)...

2011-05-04T08:00:00.007-05:00

Current flooding of the Mississippi River on the St. Louis Riverfront...

2011-05-01T09:33:00.005-05:00

Weekend Happening: St. Louis Book Fair

2011-04-29T07:38:00.001-05:00

The time for the St. Louis Book Fair has rolled back around! Woot! Woot

The Greater St. Louis Book Fair is one of the nation's oldest, largest, and most popular charity book sales, offering hundreds of thousands of books for sale. For over 60 years, book lovers and collectors have enjoyed bargain prices on a diverse and quality selection of new, gently-used and rare books.

Fair proceeds benefit local non-profit education and literacy programs.

If you have never attended this event, it is the ULTIMATE. Our family never misses it, as we are huge readers. The prices are ridiculously low and the selection is phenomenal.

Last year, we left with TWO FULL BOXES of maybe-read-once-as-mint hardbacks and novels for both me and the kids for a total of $25.00. Yes, the price of ONE new book. Amazing deals, environmentally friendly, and a wonderful cause.

NITTY GRITTY:

Where:

West County Mall
80 West County Center
St. Louis MO 63131
Lower Level of Macy's East Parking Garage

Schedule:

Thursday, 4/28: 4:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Auction Preview: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Auction: 7:30 pm

Friday, 4/29: 10:00 am - 9:30 pm

Shopping for Persons with Disabilities 9:00 am - 10:00 am
10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Sunday, 5/1: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm***
Half-Price Day

Monday, 5/3: Non-Profit Day - Closed to Public 07:30 am - 10:00 am

Cost:

$10 admission for Opening Night / Auction

***********FREE ADMISSION all other days****************

Non-Profit Day is closed to the public and limited to pre-registered 501(c)(3) organizations.

REMINDER: Dining Out for Life is Today

2011-04-28T06:40:00.007-05:00

TODAY, April 28,2011, is the 18th Annual Dining Out For Life to benefit Saint Louis Effort for AIDS.

This year, more than 140 establishments will donate 25% or more of their sales from the day to Saint Louis Effort for AIDS. Dining Out For Life has raised over $2.3 million since 1990 to help Saint Louis Effort for AIDS provide education on the prevention of HIV/AIDS and comprehensive support services for those affected by the disease.

Great cause and an easy way to give!

HERE in the list of participating restaurants. Many establishments in the CWE and Grove are giving up to 50%. Places like the Atomic Cowboy are giving 100%. HUGE.

PLUS: Pay with a Mastercard, and Mastercard will match it up to 100%!

Our entire family typically gathers and enjoys Tucker's for dinner for Dining Out as the pay back is more than most establishments at 35%. The average restaurant only pays 25%. Pay attention to the percentages! A little bit makes a HUGE difference...

Shocking before & after: Tornado Damage in Bridgeton

2011-04-27T08:45:00.003-05:00

Seller Tip: Common Mistakes

2011-04-26T19:55:00.009-05:00

I bumped into this article on MSNBC.com and had to share. FANTASTIC advice that is extremely pertinent to the current market...

Six Common Mistakes That Home Sellers Make

With many deals closing at a loss, buyers know they are in the drivers seat

By Jill Simmons

Selling a home during this real estate downturn can be stressful on the seller. It’s not unusual for some homes to sit on the market for months on end, and many areas are still working through a backlog of foreclosure inventory, which also drives down home prices. Fact: 36 percent of homes nationwide sold for a loss in January. As we enter spring’s home shopping season, buyers are in the driver’s seat in many markets, and they know it. That’s why if you’re planning on putting your home on the market, it’s crucial to understand the time-honored mistakes sellers make, and how to avoid them.

Pricing for yesteryear
Nationally, home values have fallen 27 percent since the market peaked in 2006. In some markets, total declines are in the 50-60 percent range. Yet, many sellers are tempted to list their home for sale based on what they paid for the home, not on their area’s current market conditions. If you set a price too high, your house will sit. This will inevitably lead to price reductions, which could signal to buyers there is much more room for negotiation. In the past 30 days, 23 percent of homes listed for sale on Zillow have had their price reduced.

Tip: Arm yourself with information on comparable home sales, price reductions in your area, and find out how long homes are typically on the market. Then you can have an informed discussion with your agent about the appropriate price for your home, given local market conditions.

Focusing on comps
Don’t concentrate solely on the recent sales of homes in your area. Make sure you look at the listing price for homes that are on the market right now. These homes are your competition. Based on your competition, would a potential home buyer think they are getting a good deal on your home, or theirs?

Tip: Go see the homes for sale in your neighborhood. Ask your agent what current buyers are looking for in a home these days and ask yourself objectively how your home stacks up against the competition.

Limiting your marketing exposure
Real estate is often thought of as a local business, but when marketing your home it’s essential to think broadly. Limiting your exposure to a few local web portals makes it hard for home shoppers to find your listing.

Tip: Make sure your agent is active on the top online home shopping websites and has experience using technology to market your home (e.g., Twitter, Facebook). Even if you aren’t active online, 90 percent of buyers use the Internet to search for a home, according to National Association of Realtors. Don’t forget to use your own social networks to build online buzz.

Ignoring web appeal
When marketing your home online, display as many photos of your property as possible. Help buyers visualize themselves in your space by posting lots of interior shots. Focus on what people care about, namely, the kitchen, living spaces, and even the bathrooms. Make sure to clean up and de-clutter, it’s amazing how many messy rooms are shown in listing photos. And remember — as more and more people use mobile apps to shop for homes — 23 million homes are viewed on Zillow mobile real estate apps each month (that’s nine homes per second) — the quantity and quality of photos matter. High-resolution is best.

Don’t follow buyers around when showing
Whenever possible, don’t be home when showing. Lurking sellers make buyers nervous — they don’t feel comfortable inspecting the house when they feel like they’re being watched. It’s easier for buyers to visualize the home being theirs when they have a chance to critique and discuss the home among themselves.

Tip: Unless there’s a real reason for it, don’t ask your agent to be present for all showings. Other agents want privacy with their buyers and they don’t usually have time to work around your agent’s schedule.

Hidden Gem Alert: Donut Drive-In in South City

2011-04-25T08:41:00.006-05:00

What a week, what a week. I showed 30+ condos/lofts between the Central Corridor and the Downtown Loft District, showed a dozen properties in West County, negotiated a counteroffer, and closed a property. The Spring Market is definitely in full-effect! While the real estate market may be a tad more fragile right now, it IS moving. The early Spring has been encouraging.

Anyhoo, my most recent closing was in South City near St. Louis Hills. After our final walk-through early Saturday morning, I stopped by one of South City's most notorious hot spots to surprise my slumbering family...

Located on the old Route 66 and having served fresh donuts for over 50 years, the Donut Drive-in is one of the last standing Mom and Pop donut shops in the city. Every so often when I have early AM work in South City, I randomly pick up these goodies for my family...

...as they LOVE them! If in or near South City and craving a donut done the old-fashioned way, by HAND, the Donut Drive-in is a must stop.

NITTY GRITTY:

6525 Chippewa St
Saint Louis, MO 63109
(314) 645-7714

HOURS:

Mon-Tue, Sun 5 am - 2 pm
Wed-Thu 5 am - 10:30 pm
Fri-Sat 5 am - 12 am

CASH ONLY!

View from the balcony of a downtown loft...

2011-04-21T08:55:00.000-05:00

Just for fun: Spring Fever

2011-04-18T15:50:00.000-05:00

Our entire house smells of fresh lilacs... The Redbud tree is in bloom... The annuals have all been planted... My fresh herbs have already doubled in size...

Weekend Happenings: Earth Day

2011-04-14T09:44:00.007-05:00

22nd Annual St. Louis Earth Day festival in Forest Park

Free and open to the public, this local favorite is the PERFECT day for the family in Forest Park.

St. Louis Earth Day stages what has become the oldest and largest Earth Day celebration in the Midwest annually on the 4th Sunday of April in historic Forest Park. Enjoy two stages of live music, cultural performances, local food and hands-on activities for the whole family at the 22nd Annual St. Louis Earth Day Festival. Over 200 artists, educational exhibitors, food vendors, businesses and organizations will share how they are “Being the Change”, and how you can too!

April 17, 2011

11 AM - 6 PM

Forest Park - The Muny Grounds

For More Info:
Web: http://www.stlouisearthday.org/events/earth-day-festival/

In addition:

If you have difficult to recycle items, there is a HUGE recycling extravaganza at this event, as well. Click HERE for more info.

Just for Fun: Kate Middleton's childhood home for sale

2011-04-13T08:24:00.008-05:00

The two-family, four-bedroom, semi detached Victorian where soon-to-be Princess Kate Middleton grew up will be auctioned off in June. It is listed for £460,000, or $742k USD.

NBC’s Michelle Kosinski reports from Reading, England...

Scenes from the weekend: Wall Ball

2011-04-12T08:38:00.004-05:00

Over the weekend, the Saint Louis City Open Studio and Gallery (SCOSaG) presented Wall Ball 2011. This annual event is a HUGE draw, as it's not only the rare opportunity to watch 50+ super talented local artists in action... but get your hands on the work via auction, as well.

We went with a group of friends and truly enjoyed the evening! A peek at the fun...

Find SCOSag on Twitter HERE and Facebook HERE.

Gardening tip: Creeping phlox

2011-04-08T09:31:00.002-05:00

You know that Spring is finally here, when one of the true season showstoppers finally flowers... ...Creeping Phlox. Personally, I love it. Great color, wonderful texture. Though the gorgeous blooms come and go as quickly as the Spring does here in St. Louis, Phlox provides brilliant Spring color and a nice, thick bed of ground cover for the rest of the growing season.

That being said, many people hate Creeping Phlox. H A T E. There are forums all over the Internet cursing creeping phlox and terming it a weed for the ability to overtake the garden and lackluster looks once the blooms brown up in early summer. Simply, these complainers are not using the plant properly.

Just as one wouldn't consider building their garden around other short term flowering perennial plants like tulips and daffodils, one shouldn't consider building their garden around phlox either. It is an aggressive ground cover, and true to it's name... it creeps. A LOT. In addition, once the blooms are gone, as is much of the beauty of Phlox.

Creeping Phlox is best used as an accent plant. Period. If plans are to use it in mass quantity for a HUGE punch of Spring color, the BEST use is in a small contained bed a top a retaining wall, where it has the room to show off the brilliant color and the amazing ability to quickly "creep" ... It is also lovely when dispersed in rock gardens, for a little punch of Spring color.... These usages tend to show off the plant the best, as once the blooms are lost (and the Phlox is pruned), it provides a hearty bed filler the rest of the growing season. Avoid the most COMMON misuse of Creeping Phlox... Sidewalk border= BAD idea! That is, unless you don't mind your sidewalk eventually disappearing?! ;) Ha! Instead, use it in little nooks of the garden, where the ability to creep and overtake is a visual asset, not a liability...

For more info about Creeping Phlox, click here.

#873 Alanson Drive - University City

2011-04-06T09:51:00.000-05:00

As an agent, I see a LOT of properties rotate on and off of the market. Many are purchased by investors, renovated, and then re listed and marketed to Buyers who seek a move-in ready property.

The end result of some of the rehabs are wonderful, while others are not so wonderful. What distinguishes the great from the not-so-great, one may ask? The quality and care taken by the investor is the biggie, with minimal shortcuts taken and decent workmanship.

Yesterday, I took my Buyer through this property, and found the work to be appealing to the masses. While not a match for my down-sizing Buyer, as it was too much house at almost 2,000 ground floor sq feet, 3+ bedrooms, and 3 baths... I thought it was worthy of sharing.

THE OUTDATED BEFORE, JUST A YEAR AGO: THE GORGEOUS AFTER, TODAY:

Night and day, right? Great house with a fantastic layout in a wonderful University City location, this property is listed for $295,000.

For more information or a private showing, email me at cnenonen@cbgundaker.com or click HERE for the full listing.

Weekend Happening: Queeny Art & Craft Fair

2011-04-04T15:45:00.001-05:00

Love, love, LOVE this show! This weekend, the 36th annual Art Fair is coming to Queeny Park! Featuring fine arts and crafts from 130 artists from around the country, this show goes on all weekend, rain or shine, in the climate-controlled Greensfelder Recreation Center at Queeny Park.
NITTY GRITTY:

Friday, April 8, 2011 6pm - 9pm

Saturday, April 9, 2011 10am - 7pm.

Sunday, April 10, 2011 11am - 4pm.

Admission is $5 at the door.

Parking is free

FOLLOWING MEDIUMS REPRESENTED:

•digital art •drawing & pastels •printmaking •fiber, glass •jewelry •mixed media •painting - oil, acrylics & watercolor •photography •ceramics •sculpture •wood.

FOR MORE INFO:

http://www.gslaa.org/GSL_2011_spring_festival.htm

West County is getting a dog park...

2011-04-01T08:32:00.005-05:00

Though a somewhat controversial project, as it means demolishing a century old farmhouse and numerous historic out buildings, the proposed dog park at the corner of Baxter and Old Baxter in Chesterfield (just west of Baxter and Clarkson) is now a reality... Per the City of Chesterfield: they purchased this 18 acre historic farm from the Eberwein family several years ago for the purpose of developing a community park. The Eberwein family used this land as a working farm and their residence up until the time of purchase by the City.

Slated to open this summer, the park will be named after the Eberwein family who first settled in Chesterfield over 100 years ago. Amenities for the park site include a trail system, educational rain gardens, an open field for dog play, and restrooms.

The two acre dog park will have separate areas for small dog and all dog play along with a pavilion to provide shelter and an area to rest while watching the dogs at play.

To preserve the history and original charm of the site, the Eberwein Park is being designed as a casual community park with a farm-like theme. To accomplish this, the existing large red barn, originally constructed in the early 1900s, will be preserved and historically restored.

Though it is always heartbreaking to bid farewell to a historic home, this new area amenity is certain to become a community epicenter. Click HERE for more information about other dog parks in the St. Louis area.

Weekend Happenings: Final Free ArtStart

2011-03-30T07:35:00.000-05:00

The final Kids Art Start of the season is this coming weekend at the St. Louis Repertory Theater!

NITTY GRITTY:

Saturday, April 2 at 10 a.m. The Rep 130 Edgar Road Webster Groves, MO 63119

FEATURING:

Diva La Tap, Krueger Pottery, and St. Louis Cultural Flamenco Society

Monday ramblings...

2011-03-28T11:10:00.003-05:00

It is Monday. Spring Break officially ended for the Nenonen boys this AM. Back to the grind for all.

While my brain catches up to speed from a long week of work and fun, I figured I would touch upon several random thoughts that have been circling my head over the past few days. Please excuse the somewhat directionless nature of these bits-and-pieces...

WEATHER:

I can't ignore the obvious- let's talk about it. Just bizarre. No better way to sum it up than with this... And this... I know, the juxtaposition is something to behold. It appears that Old Man Winter has waged an epic battle against Spring and refuses to go down without a fight?!

As I have said before, welcome to St. Louis!

SEARCH LIKE AN AGENT:

Over the weekend, a current client of mine expressed frustration that I have heard NUMEROUS times over the years. He had started to use Realtor.com to search local properties between my daily emails with listings. He pointed out a few listings to me that my searches had appeared to miss, only to discover that those listings were already sold.

This happens a lot, unfortunately.

Sadly, sites like Realtor.com, Zillow, and Trulia, while great public resources for some things... tend to have a huge amount of lag time. They are national websites with THOUSANDS of MLS systems and Realtors feeding into them. Often times, the lag time on sites like this is up to TWO weeks! In a business where time is of the essence, these search engine really fall short. They just do.

Heed my advice St. Louis Home Buyers- avoid sites like Realtor.com for current property searches. Trust me, it will save you much time and headache.

The best way to access the most recent listings and price reductions is through a licensed Realtor. Period. We have access to EVERYTHING. That being said, if in the mood to browse on your own, stick to the search engines of LOCAL brokers and agents. The Multiple Listing System Database (MLS) that agents use here in St. Louis is dedicated to keeping our clients up to speed by supplying even agents with real time search engines. Want to search like an agent? You can now do it HERE on my website! Very exciting.

CARRIE PSA: Basement security

The empty space in this furnace, friends...

... is where the copper-lined a-coil of this unit used to be. My Buyer closes on this listing in 2 weeks. Last week, this vacant property (along with numerous others on the street) was broken into and stripped of all of the copper. Pipes and everything.

Needless to say, it has been a total mess. Particularly for the poor Seller, who is quickly rushing to get all of the repairs done prior to close to the tune of $3,500. Ouch.

The economy is ugly. Period. With vacant properties and precious metal prices at an all time high while employment is at an all-time low... this phenomena is no shock to those of us in the industry. A recipe for disaster.

That being said, many of these break-ins (this listing included) can be easily avoided. It comes down to reducing possible points of entry into a property. Thieves concentrate on properties where they can get in and out quickly. If one foresees entry to a particular property as being problematic, he will skip it and move on to the next. Period.

Obviously, deadbolts, motion lights, screen doors, and alarm systems are always a good idea. Often times, however, the security issues can be solved more simply. These safety tips are applicable to EVERY home owner, copper pipes or not:

If your basement door (or any door in your house with an inconspicuous or not well-lit entry location) looks similar to this...

... consider replacing it with a solid core fire-rated door with no windows or thicker thermal rated windows. For less than $200, you will not only vastly improve security, but energy efficiency as well. The door at my Buyer's lisitngs was almost identical to this one.

If your original basement windows are single-paned and look similar to this...

I HIGHLY recommend full replacement or installing security bars. NOTE: this was the point of entry on my Buyer's listing.

My favorite solution to this problem is this... I found this example for a mere $80.00 on eBay. Glass blocked vented windows provide the air and light that you want, along with the security that you need.

Small cost and hassle to pay for security and safety. Well worth it!

Wow, well this blog entry was almost as random and sporadic as our recent weather?! Busy week ahead and fingers crossed for warmer weather. Alrighty then, back to work... =)

I just bought my season passes...

2011-03-26T14:11:00.003-05:00

It is that time of year again, St. Louis...

The St. Louis Muny Theater has announced their 2011 show schedule and season ticket sales begin TODAY! This year's line up includes...

Legally Blonde June 20-26
Kiss Me, Kate June 27-July 3
The Little Mermaid July 6-14
Singin’ in the Rain July 18-24
Little Shop of Horrors July 25-31
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Aug. 1-7
Bye Bye Birdie Aug. 8-14

NITTY GRITTY:

Season ticket sales begin today HERE.
Single ticket sales begin on June 4, 2011.

FIND THE MUNY ONLINE:

Website: http://www.muny.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/munytheatre
Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheMuny

Remember the gorgeous Spring weather I touted on Monday...

2011-03-25T08:49:00.000-05:00

Flowers blooming, birds chirping, bees buzzing?

Uh huh, yeah...
Welcome to St. Louis, dear readers. Mother Nature- make up your mind!