Indianapolis Area Existing Home Sales Up 13% in January

February 22nd, 2012

We recently attended the International Builder’s Show where many builders reported that January was their strongest month for sales in at least three years.

What’s driving buyer demand in 2012?

For many buyers, it’s the ability to sell their existing home in order to upgrade to a larger one, downgrade to a smaller more manageable place, or to just find the right-sized new home. Here in the Indianapolis real estate market, existing home sales were up a whopping 13% over last year, a trend that has been consistently improving over the last several months.

Why Sellers Are Selling Now

Many homeowners are recognizing the unprecedented opportunity right now in the Indianapolis real estate market. Inventory is lower than it has been in many years which is typically good for Sellers, and new home pricing remains at a great value. Combine low Indianapolis new home prices with historic low interest rates, and for many homeowners this is the perfect time to lock in the price and rate for the home they plan to live in for the next 5-7 years or longer.

Is it the Right Time for You?

If you are thinking about listing your current home and making a move to a new home, there are a few steps you can take to find out if now is the time to take advantage of some of the great deals that are currently available:

Contact an Agent: How much is your current home worth? How many similar homes are on the market? What improvements will you need to invest in to make your home more attractive to potential home buyers? The team at Tucker Associates can walk you through the current housing market and give you the information you need to decide if listing your home now to buy a new home is right for you.

Meet with a Mortgage Consultant: Financing your home today is very different than it was just a few years ago. Rates are at historic lows, but what loan program is right for you based on your down payment, FICO score, and expenses? Meeting with a mortgage consultant for a no-obligation, no-nonsense look at your true purchasing power is a smart way to determine the right steps for you.

Meet with a Design Consultant: There are many “great deals” in new homes today, but what is the true cost of a new home once you complete landscaping, décor, upgrades, and other customization? These costs can drain your cash reserves or increase your mortgage payment, so it’s important to factor these costs in when thinking about purchasing a new home.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a new home to accommodate a growing family, an empty nest, or just a better neighborhood, we can help! Contact us today using the form below to get a free consultation about selling your existing home.

We would love to hear from you! Please fill out this form and we will get in touch with you shortly.

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Pocket Neighborhoods: A New Revolution in Living

February 16th, 2012

Pocket neighborhoods, like Inglenook in Carmel, IN, are increasingly popping up throughout the United States. They are quickly becoming the new way to live for many reasons: a sense of community, perfectly sized cottages that are still unique, the benefits of lower costs without giving up all the wants and a lower environmental impact.

A Wonderful Sense of Community

“The idea of a pocket neighborhood is that you have nearby neighbors coming together around a shared space…. This really harkens back to the fact that we, as humans, are social. We want to be together,” said Architect Ross Chapin who designed the cottages at Inglenook who also wrote the book Pocket Neighborhoods, Creating Small-Scale Community in a Large-Scale World.

Pocket neighborhoods consist of a cluster of cottages with large front porches situated together around beautifully landscaped courtyards. Each home is thoughtfully positioned with its neighbor to create a sense of community while still providing personal space and privacy.

Neighbors can hang out on their front porches together while watching their children play in the courtyards.

Inglenook offers the only pocket neighborhood of new cottage style homes designed by Ross Chapin in the entire Midwest.

View Ellis Photos and download floor plan >

Flexible Design for Changing Families

In recent years the trend has been toward larger homes on smaller lots to create a sense of privacy. However, now the trend is changing as smart homeowners understand that true privacy is better achieved through thoughtful design, rather than larger homes that include rarely used rooms.

The trend is also toward more unique, definable homes versus cookie cutter plans. The homes at Inglenook have been designed to look beautiful, interesting and also achieve a very practical design: energy efficient, flexible living spaces that can be used for a variety of purposes, layered windows and skylights that bathe each home in light while providing maximum privacy between neighbors.

Eco-Friendly and Wallet-Friendly

Another very big benefit of pocket neighborhoods is lower energy costs and a lighter environmental impact.

Pocket neighborhoods use up less land and the homes are designed to be energy efficient which also keeps monthly costs lower.  At Inglenook, the standard upgraded features like the wood Anderson window and the new energy efficient appliances also helps to keep energy costs low and the environmental impact down.

Download a floor plan of our energy efficient designs >

Schedule a showing today. Contact Sam Hawkins of F.C. Tucker and Associates at (317) 580-7854 or sam@talktotucker.com.

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Limited Time Incentives for Carmel, IN New Homes at Inglenook

February 15th, 2012

We want you to move in and immediately start living your life without having to think about renovations or upgrades. That’s why for the month of February we are offering a deal to upgrade the unfinished basement into a family room for only $5,000 (valued at $12,000) to anyone who purchases one of our new cottage style homes before February 29th.

All of our homes come with the option to have a finished or unfinished basement. If you want a finisd basement, we want to make it very simple for you to move in with all the work done. Having a finished basement will give you approximately 500 more square feet of livable space.

Other Standard Upgraded Features That Make the Cottages at Inglenook Complete

Along with the option to upgrade the basement, Inglenook’s homes have many standard upgraded features not found in many Indianapolis new homes. These features include gleaming maple hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, wood Anderson windows and thoughtful built-ins.

These homes are more than move-in ready, they are live-life ready. Being able to buy a new home and not have to think about anything but where to put your furniture is a very big stress reliever, considering that moving has been cited by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry to be one of the most stressful life events, after the death of a loved one and divorce or illness.

Moving Into a New Home Should Be Exciting

We think that moving should be exciting and fun. So we thought about every little detail that we would want in a new home and how those details can ease the stresses of moving by not having to worry about functionality. Whether it be enough storage for your clothes and other items or built-in book shelves to display your collection of favorite books and or family photos to built-in flower baskets out front for those with a green thumb.

Discover how easy moving into a new home can be. All Inglenook homes are open to see each Saturday and Sunday between 3p and 5p. You can also schedule a showing by contacting Same Hawkins at (317) 580-7854 or sam@talktotucker.com.

Get Immediate Access!

View photo gallery, watch virtual tour, and download floor plan: http://www.inglenookcarmel.com/homes

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Strong Interest in Carmel, IN Cottage Style New Homes

February 7th, 2012

The New Year is off to strong start at Inglenook – interest in our cottage style homes has nearly doubled in the last two weeks!

We’re excited to see many groups tour our Open Homes each weekend from 3p – 5p and even more schedule tours during the week. Now that our first phase of homes is complete buyers are able to walk through our move-in ready homes and feel the difference inglenook offers in design, quality, and features.

From the gleaming maple hardwood floors to the open kitchens and generous front porches, it’s clear that Inglenook offer something very special for Carmel, IN real estate.

Have you visited Inglenook yet?

Here’s a few good reasons to visit Inglenook this weekend:

A Limited Number of Cottage Style New Homes

Inglenook includes just 27 homes in the entire neighborhood with just a few choices for each floor plan. Find your ideal home early for best selection of location.

The Only Midwest Pocket Neighborhood of New Homes

Inglenook offers the only opportunity in the entire Midwest to purchase a cottage style new home designed by award-winning architect Ross Chapin in a pocket neighborhood. This unique blend of traditional architecture with modern innovation in design is achieving attention nationwide as a leading housing trend, which is creating increased demand at Inglenook.

Housing Prices are on the Rise

The average price for a sold home rose 19.1% (will link to Tuesday’s blog) from October to November and inventory of homes on the market fell 8.8% (source). As the economy continues to strengthen, the historically low prices of Carmel, IN real estate may not last. Purchasing a home at Inglenook that is still under construction means that you can lock in your price now, even if home prices continue to escalate.

Don’t wait! Contact us today to request a showing. Simply fill out the request below or contact Sam Hawkins at (317) 580-7854 or by email at sam@talktotucker.com

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How Buying a New Home in Carmel, IN is Like the Superbowl

February 2nd, 2012

Superbowl Sunday is fast approaching as we prepare to host the big game right here in Indianapolis.

At Inglenook, we admit we are caught up in Superbowl mania too, and we love a good sports analogy. So here’s our take on how to apply game winning strategies to buying a new home:

Build a Strong Offense

When it comes to the team that is building your new home, who is the quarterback? Is it a local builder that you know will be on-site overseeing every detail of your home, or is it someone you never see or hear from?

The homes at Inglenook are built by a local builder who is on-site and gets to know each buyer personally. Just read this recent testimonial from Inglenook buyer Rosemary Fowler:

“Casey Land and Land Development & Building have been fabulous to work with. I LOVE my Plumrose cottage. It turned out even better than I hoped or dreamed it would. Casey’s attention to detail and quality control has been superb and he has been a joy to work with.”

See a photo gallery of the homes at Inglenook >

Build a Strong Defense

When buying a home a strong defense is essential. Balancing a good price with a low cost of ownership after you move-in is necessary for creating long-term wins. By selecting a new home over a resale home, you can spend less money updating outdated finishes and appliances and costly surprise repairs.

Buying a new home at Inglenook means that there is nothing to update. Inglenook homes also include many upgrades that could cost thousands of dollars with another home builder: maple hardwood floors, granite counters, built in bookshelves, crown moulding, wood Anderson windows, and more.

The homes at Inglenook will also save you money each month with energy efficient design that keeps monthly costs lower.

Download a floor plan of our energy efficient designs >

Rely on a Good Team

Of course, every game-winning victory depends on a strong team. That’s why we’ve partnered with F.C. Tucker, Indiana’s largest real estate company, to deliver exceptional service at every stage of your home buying process.

Schedule a showing today. Contact Sam Hawkins of F.C. Tucker and Associates at (317) 580-7854 or sam@talktotucker.com.

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Indianapolis Area Real Estate Strengthens in December

January 31st, 2012

Thinking about buying an Indianapolis new home? This may be a great time.  Whether you are thinking about selling an existing home or purchasing your first home, the Indianapolis real estate market is showing signs of strengthening.

Here’s why it matters for you:

Central Indiana Home Sales Are Up

Central Indiana home sales were up nearly 8% in December 2011 for the nine county area which includes Hamilton County real estate as well as Morgan, Hendricks, Madison, Boone, Shelby, Johnson, Marion, and Hancock. Pending home sales were up 7.9% over December 2010 with some areas are experiencing increases in pending homes sales of 50% over 2010.

An increase in sales means that if you have been waiting out the market to sell your home to move to a larger home, a smaller home, or to buy a home in a better neighborhood it might be time to consider selling.

Indiana Real Estate Inventory Levels Are Down

Available homes for sale in the nine county region dropped a whopping 18.4% in the nine county area in December 2011, with 2,681 fewer homes available than in December 2010.

Having lower inventory levels is good news for Sellers, because it creates less competition for buyers and that can drive urgency and can mean less negotiation.

Central Indiana Home Prices Increase

As inventory levels fall, home prices are starting to inch up. There was a 0.8% increase in home prices for the nine county area in December 2011 compared to the same period in 2010. This means that Sellers can enjoy the advantages of a strengthening real estate market and still take advantage of the historically low housing prices when purchasing a new home.

Thinking of buying a new home? Inglenook features new cottage style homes in a pocket neighborhood with prices starting in the high $200,000s. View the photo gallery, watch a virtual tour, and download a floor plan.

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Indianapolis Real Estate: Location and Lifestyle

January 27th, 2012

Looking for a new home in Carmel, IN?

There are many choices for buyers who are shopping for Indianapolis real estate, but for those who are truly looking for something special, Inglenook offers cottage style homes in a pocket neighborhood in Carmel, IN, which was recently voted one of the best cities to live in.

At Inglenook, we understand that lifestyle is about home, neighborhood, and community. It’s about finding a place that offers exceptional living any time of year.

Inglenook is a great place to savor a summer day, but our exceptional location is also conveniently located close to some of the area’s best shopping, dining and entertainment for warming up on a winter day:

Indianapolis Shopping

From a hot cup of coffee at Starbucks to the hottest fashion at Saks Fifth Avenue, you can find anything you need at The Fashion Mall at Keystone Crossing, a shopping center featuring dozens of stores just a few minutes from Inglenook. The Fashion Mall at Keystone Crossing has something for every age and every interest.

Indianapolis Dining

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch with the kids or a feast fit for a foodie, at Inglenook you’re just minutes away from some of the most popular restaurants in Indianapolis. From a fresh sandwich at Panera or burrito at Chipotle to a glass of wine at Divine Wine Bar or a good Italian meal at Maggiano’s, at Inglenook you can select from dozens of family favorites and inspired date-night delicacies.

Indianapolis Entertainment

Looking for fun ideas with the kids on a cold day? How about a matinee of the latest blockbuster? Maybe a few games of bowling to burn off some energy. At Inglenook, you’re just minutes from some of Carmel’s most popular entertainment attractions, with choices suitable for all ages.

Indianapolis Fitness

Need something a little more serious, like a good workout? At Inglenook, you can enjoy easy access to a variety of fitness options, even in the middle of winter. From a run on a treadmill to a pilates class, Carmel has lots of ways to burn calories and have fun.

Indianapolis Spas

Reward yourself after a good workout with a manicure, a trip to the hair salon, or a visit to one of several day spas. Need something more manly? There’s even a barber shop.

Visit Inglenook this weekend between 3p and 5p and discover how our cottage style homes offer exceptional location and lifestyle any time of year. Need to schedule a showing during the week? Simply complete the form below and one of our Sales Associates will be happy to schedule a tour.

Make an Appointment

We would love to hear from you! Please fill out this form and we will get in touch with you shortly.

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Indianapolis Featured New Home: The Coho Cottage at Inglenook

January 25th, 2012

Discovering the right home – that aha moment that you feel when you first walk in – is one of life’s great joys. Like finding the love of your life, sometimes you just know.

It’s about more than bedroom and bathroom counts or square footage – although those things do matter. It’s about how you feel in the home. How you envision your life there: the countless memories that you will create with family and friends.

Your home is the place where you feel most inspired.

A good home will make you feel that way with the right décor. A great home will make you feel that way even when it is completely empty; a blank canvas for you to fill in.

That’s the way you’ll feel as soon as you walk in to our Coho cottage, a very unique Indiana new home.

Small in Size, but Big on Charm

Our Coho cottage style home is a two bedroom, two and a half bath cottage with gleaming maple floors, a spacious kitchen, a dining alcove, a full bedroom and bathroom on the main floor, and a large front porch.

It’s a home that is reminiscent of the charm of a 1920’s bungalow, but with all of the conveniences of modern design: skylights, gas fireplace, walk-in closets, and an attached garage.

The Coho features a private second floor retreat with bedroom, bathroom, and generous closet space, perfect for a master suite, an office, a craft room, or a kid’s room.

Discover your own aha moment this weekend. Visit the Coho between 3p and 5p this Saturday and Sunday. You can also schedule a showing by contacting Same Hawkins at (317) 580-7854 or sam@talktotucker.com.

Get Immediate Access!

View photo gallery, watch virtual tour, and download floor plan: http://www.inglenookcarmel.com/homes/coho/

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Carmel, IN Real Estate Trends: Time to Upgrade?

January 17th, 2012

If you’ve been looking for a good time to sell your existing home and move into a new home in Carmel, IN, we’ve got great news. Recent trends in Carmel, IN real estate indicate that now may be a great time to sell and consider a move into a new home like the cottage style homes at Inglenook.

Whether you want to move up to a larger home, move down to a smaller home, or just move into a better neighborhood, here’s a few key trends in the real estate market that may work in your favor:

Inventory of Existing Homes is Down

Inventory of existing homes for sale in Carmel, IN was down 8.8% in November (source), indicating that there are fewer homes for buyers to choose from. Selling your home when inventory levels are lower means that you have less competition for buyers and your home may sell more quickly.

Prices are on the Rise

The average price for a sold home rose 19.1% in November from $314,000 to $374,000. As inventory levels of available homes go down, supply and demand can drive prices up – and that can mean good news for Sellers. Maximizing the price on your current home increases your purchasing power for a new home. This can translate to a bigger home, more upgrades to personalize your home, or just an extra financial cushion.

Home Prices Are Still Historically Low

Of course, the right timing for selling your home also depends on the value of purchasing a new home. As prices on existing homes rise, prices for new homes in Carmel IN are still at historical lows, so you can make the move to a new home much more affordably than a few years ago.

There are additional advantages as well: buying a new home can often mean a lower cost of ownership once you move in. Fewer repairs, lower monthly energy bills, and low maintenance costs can help your new home purchase pay off in the long term and the short term.

Find out more about if now is the right time to consider a new home purchase. Visit Inglenook and tour our brand new homes this weekend and speak with an experienced real estate professional. Our homes are open from 3p – 5p.

Can’t make it this weekend? No problem! We’re happy to schedule a tour of our homes at a time that fits your schedule. Simply complete the request below and we’ll call you to confirm your appointment.

You can also call Sam Hawkins at (317) 580-7854 or email sam@talktotucker.com.

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Looking for an Indianapolis Condo? Cottage Style Homes Offer…

January 12th, 2012

Looking for an Indianapolis condo for sale? Condos offer many advantages, from low maintenance living to affordability and a sense of community.

But there are downsides to Indianapolis condos as well: lack of storage, little or no outdoor space, noise from neighbors, and uninspired floor plans.

What if you could enjoy all of the advantages of condo living, with none of the downside? At Inglenook, you can!

Cottage Style Homes

At Inglenook, our pocket neighborhood of 27 cottage style homes are designed by award-winning architect Ross Chapin and include gleaming maple wood floors, skylights, walk out terraces and porches, and lofts. Each home features generous storage space including walk-in closets, built-ins, garages and basements.

A Sense of Community… and Privacy

The detached cottages at Inglenook are built with reinforced exterior walls to minimize noise from neighbors and create a sense of privacy and quiet. But Inglenook is also about community. Inglenook is a pocket neighborhood that is designed to promote interaction with neighbors and the feeling of a traditional neighborhood.

Investing for the Long Term

Unlike a condo, at Inglenook you won’t need to worry about outgrowing your home too quickly. Inglenook features homes that range from approximately 1,060 to 2,176 square feet. Inglenook is within the Carmel, IN school district and features easy access to downtown Indianapolis.

Affordability

Whether you are looking to move up from an apartment or down-size from a larger home, Inglenook offers affordability with energy efficient homes that keep monthly costs low. Inglenook also enjoys Clay Township taxes – the lowest property tax rate in Hamilton County and one of the lowest in Indiana.

Discover why the homes at Inglenook are a smart alternative for low maintenance living without compromise. Schedule a tour today by contacting Sam Hawkins at (317) 580-7854 or by email at sam@talktotucker.com.

Schools are determined by the Carmel Clay school district and subject to change. Please contact the Carmel Clay School District with any questions.

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