Blog de la Lizette

October Court Days / Mt. Sterling Kentucky

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 07:31:54 -0500

In Mt. Sterling Kentucky: October Court Days = A Wild Weekend of Shopping!

There is NOTHING in this world as whacky as October Court Day in Mt. Sterling Kentucky! It's completely in my blood and genes. There's no known cure for it and I am afraid it is terminal.

There is no way I would miss a year of attending.

It always occurs every third Monday in October. That was when court was in session and country folk came into town to swap, trade, sell while they wasted away the day waiting to see how issues in court would turn out. It quickly expanded into Saturday and Sunday too since everyone came to town early.

I sort of grew up in Mt. Sterling since both sets of Grandparents and loads of relatives lived Montgomery County. Mom & Dad went to high school there as well.

My grandmother Elizabeth lived right downtown in an apartment over a grocery store on Main Street. I loved visiting the stores in town and there is something sweet and comforting about being downtown for me.

Normally, Mt. Sterling is a quiet little Kentucky town of 6,317(2005 census) it grows to an estimated 130,000 during October Court Days!

The whole town is a giant flea market with most of the downtown streets blocked for traffic and turned into miles of vendors. I have seen every type of item for sale here. The smell of food cooking on the outdoor grills is fabulous too! Each year there is a new HOT ITEM!

Last year it was designer knock-off handbags. We stopped at one table that was a small mountain of faux Chanel and Coach handbags. Surrounding it almost four bodies deep, were frantic crazy women snatching, grabbing and bargaining with the seller in lightning speed!

The seller was this tiny Oriental girl standing on two concrete blocks(so she could have a good vantage point) with a fistful of money in one hand and a load of plastic bags on the other arm.

She would tell you what the bag was priced... then grab your money. There were many more boxes under the table full of purses. It was the quick and the dead if you wanted one.

The seller said she would only be there one day...so you better get it while the gittin is good! WhooHoo, it was fun!

Back in the day my Dad said his favorite vendor was an old Indian that sold snake oil(with a bit of Magic Corn Salve and Black Draught). I didn't ever see him.

One of my favorites of October Court Days was an organ grinder with a monkey.

He would stand in the street and the monkey would gather silver coins from the tight circle of children and their parents.

Try to give him a penny and he would refuse to touch it.

Everyone would laugh and give him a quarter. I always thought that guy was a genius for making money the easy way.

I always look for the unique items like this toilet paper holder made from horseshoes!

I also thought these little pets called Sugar Gliders were neat.

I held one in my hand and his little toenails were pretty sharp. The sugar gliders knew their names and would jump in the air over to their handlers. They were sweet but I didn't think I wanted to take another critter home. there was quite a crowd of parents taking a look at ownership. Kids were crying...you know the drill.

Anyway we parked kind of far from the event, so it made it a long haul to take back bargains to stash in the trunk. After one time back we were worn out and ready to call it a day.

Like I said, there is nothing like October Court Days but after the end of one you swear you will never do it again...then you are back again in Mt. Sterling the next year.

Maybe it's like having a baby... you forget all the pain you endured and have another one. After I recover this year, I will be looking forward to next time!

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Lizette Fitzpatrick- Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estateexperience. Copyright © 2008 By Lizette Fitzpatrick, All Rights Reserved..*October Court Days / Mt. Sterling Kentucky*

Decorate Rooms in Your House With Just A Sharpie

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:21:50 -0500

Decorate Rooms in Your House With Just A Sharpie

I love a creative idea. Especially when it has something to do with decorating a room in the house.

Some of the best ideas are not expensive. Even if they don't cost much they do require your time an patience.

I wanted to share with you a truly creative basement room that was created on creme painted walls and $10 worth of Sharpies and Magic Markers.

The effect is rich and a work of art. This amazing decor by Charlie Kratzer of Lexington was featured in the The Lexington Herald Leader.

See the whole basement in 360-degree detail.

Check out more intricate Sharpie Art by Justin Ashbee.

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Lizette Fitzpatrick- Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Keeneland Race Track / Fall Meet 2008 / Lexington Kentucky

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:51:46 -0500

Keeneland race Track / Fall Meet 2008 / Lexington Kentucky

Out-of-towners show up to see the horses but Kentuckians go there to watch the people.

Keeneland Race Track in Lexington Kentucky is quite a legendary place and horse race aficionados will tell you that there is no place in the world like it.

An exquisite jewel set in the center of The Horse Capitol Of The World.

It is with out a doubt the most beautiful race track anywhere. A showcase for owners to present their best horses to well heeled spectators and serious horse people.

It's hard to put it into words, but here it is about pageantry, nobility, elegance and thrill of Thoroughbred racing.

The feel here is very much like racing in England.

My picture is of the walking ring where the brightly dressed jockeys get final instructions from trainers and get ready to be walked to the track.

The elegant atmosphere at Keeneland has been the same since the 1930's. Amazing to many is that it is only open for racing twice a year...in the spring and then in the fall.

Today when this picture was taken it was a rainy day and the big race was The Bluegrass Stakes...a prep race that sometimes determines what colts are ready to go to the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

Everything is built with comfort and beauty in mind. I don't think a single drop of rain touched my head once I arrived at the door and had fun all day upstairs in a glass front corporate box overlooking the track. Many people like the Phoenix Room that has a view of this paddock. I visited with good friends and snapped a few pictures from the windows.

The Keeneland Meeting of 17 days of racing begins on October 3 and continues through the 25th.

Keeneland will offer a record $5.4 million in purses for its 19 stakes races, marking one of the richest stakes programs in North America.

On October 11th, Keeneland Race track will also host the $500,000 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1), an internationally renowned invitational for 3-year-old fillies at 1 1/8 miles on the turf.

This fall season, Keeneland will become North America's first high-definition racetrackand will live race coverage and limited simulcasts in high-definition format. Additional HD broadcasts of Keenelandwill be available via on-track television monitors, infield LED tote board and also HD-compatible ESPN telecasts.

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Lizette Fitzpatrick- Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Chanel's Smoky Mountain Getaway

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 21:34:20 -0500

Before anyone knew we were gone, Chanel and I left town for the weekend.

We piled all the necessities in a girlfriend's car and headed for the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

Chanel was finally feeling better and I had planned to go to Pigeon Forge for the weekend of my birthday. I hadn't planned on Chanel being so ill prior to my trip.

I'm just thankful she lived through the health scare and could enjoy herself.

On the way to the chalet I snapped a pic of this outhouse precariously hanging on to it's piece of dirt. When it falls it will be in the road.

We checked in about a half mile down the road and let me tell you, the view was breathtaking! It was a blast to do nothing for three days.

When I left I thought I wouldn't have any plans for real estate all weekend. before I could get out the door I had a listing to show on 6PM Sunday. That would work since we would be back in the afternoon. Then on the way down to Tennessee, I got a call for a referral and booked 3 showings of 2 of my listings for the weekend. I need to leave town more often!

The beauty of it all was I had my cell phone and laptop w/ Sprint aircard. All of them worked just fine up on the mountain. It was like I had never left the home office.

Anyway, I wanted to share the view we had today. We really hated to leave.

It's nice to get away. My plan is to do just that more often. I picked out the next chalet before we left. The mountain air with the backdoor open and hearing the crickets was intoxicating.

I'll use it for a calming vision when I take Chanel back to the vet tomorrow for another blood test. I hope it's the last for awhile. It did us good to get away from that even if it was only for 2 nights. Wish her luck!

Buzzards Having A Party On Your Roof? Call 911

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:34:32 -0500

Just why would buzzards congregate on your roof? I had to ponder this as I drove by this house today while on my Realtor tour.

I don't think I have ever seen buzzards just parked on top of a house in a residential neighborhood in town.

My first thought was someone might be dead inside. Were they watching some small animal in the yard? Maybe a dead one? Isn't that why they show up? They smell death?

These guys were huge and they stayed there while we toured a house a few doors down. I didn't see any fly away.

Maybe, I should have knocked on the door. If no answer ...called 911.

Why A Realtor Might Turn Down Listing Your Home. It's Nothing Personal...Just Good Business.

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 13:35:14 -0500

Why A Realtor Might Turn Down Listing Your Home. It's Nothing Personal...Just Good Business.

A few days ago I was asked by another Realtor to take a look at a property out of his MLS area to see if I might be interested in listing it as a referral.

The property was actually a county outside my usual area but, if it were marketable I would be interested. You never know till you go look and see what is around it.

There are some areas surrounding Lexington and Richmond that just take extra time to sell. Even in good times they just take a long time to sell.

I toured the property, but decided it would just not be the right fit for my stable of listings.

(The house picture in my post is not the subject property...just an example)

Factors influencing my decision:

Too far away(in another county I'm not famular with...never sold a property there).

The property backed up to a landfill(the tenant said the smell in the winter was pretty strong, not too many people would buy a farm next to a landfill).

My car would not make it up the steep gravel driveway(we drove up in a front-wheel drive truck and it had trouble getting up the hill).

House in dire need of repair and not freshly staged(Too many cosmetic repairs needed. A home inspector would find mountains of things to kill a deal with this one).

Temporary fencing for horses on 15 acres(fencing a farm is expensive for a new owner).

My cell phone wouldn't work there out in the country(what if I had an emergency?).

I thought it over carefully while I toured it. Since it would be a referral, if I sold it, I have to pay a referral fee to the referring Realtor. This takes a bite out of my commission if it sells and we make it to closing.

This listing might take years to sell and eat up advertising and gas money. I decided it just might drain my budget right now. We are in a strange economic time.

Now, it's not unusual for me to turn down a listing. It's just the market we are in. Realtors work on a commission basis. If we can't sell your home we don't make any money. It's that simple.

To list a home takes advertising money, gas and time. Maybe some Realtors have a different situation, but I pay for all my advertising. Going into winter, the budget gets tighter.

Gas is more expensive now...so I might not want to list a home that will require a lot of mileage to and from.

Time...I have plenty of that, but a Realtor's time is just as valuable as an attorneys, doctors or anyone else that gets paid by the hour for services. I make time for what is important and my clients.

You can bet if I have to spend my money to advertise in a slow market, before a holiday season and winter... your house should be in tip top shape and marketable. It needs to be squeaky clean, polished, freshly painted and looking like a new penny.

Buyers are walking in and walking out of listings right now. Nice houses are getting showings...but no offers. It's tough for sellers and Realtors.

I'm all for getting a house sold fast. I have lots of ideas on how to get a home ready to sell.

There are plenty of houses selling now in Central Kentucky. It could be yours. All it takes is a little extra effort in getting it ready. Now before Thanksgiving would be a good time to get it sold.

Don't wait another minute waiting to see what the market is doing or how the presidential election will turn out. You can't afford to sit and wait.

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Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience. Copyright © 2008 By Lizette Fitzpatrick, All Rights Reserved..*Why A Realtor Might Turn Down Listing Your Home. It's Nothing Personal...Just Good Business.*

Historic Midway Kentucky

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:22:09 -0500

Historic Midway Kentucky

Over the years, I have spent some time over in historic Midway, Kentucky. I'm amazed how much it is starting to feel like being in the wine country towns of California.

The charming little town has a plentiful amount of restaurants, great food, and shops. I have had some fabulous meals at Quirk. One favorite: I had the HUGE pimento sandwich with a cup of tomato basil soup. Both were the best I have had in forever! YUM!

Stroll down the sidewalks of the downtown formerly called "Middleway"...now Midway. It was named that by railroad executives because it was both halfway between Lexington and Frankfort and halfway between a potential line from Georgetown and Versailles. Maybe they should have called it "Halfway". The first lot sold in 1835. Home of Midway College(Kentucky's only 4 year women's college) that was chartered as The Kentucky Female Orphan School in 1847.

Anyway, youu can spend a lovely fall afternoon feeling like you are vacationing. The Midway Kentucky shops have great stuff to buy. I found quite a few things that I just had to have. Now I am are wanting to go back to try more of the restaurants, sit out on the patios with a glass of vino and explore more streets and historic buildings in Midway.

The weekend of Sept. 20 & 21 is the Midway Fall Festival in historic downtown Midway.

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience. Copyright © 2008 By Lizette Fitzpatrick, All Rights Reserved..*Historic Midway Kentucky*

So... You Think You Are Ready To go Buy A Home?

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:56:25 -0500

So... you think you are ready to go buy a home?

1.Find a REALTOR whom you can relate to. Buying a home is an emotional commitment. It's critical that the agent you choose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality. Have your own agent show you homes, not the listing agent. Call your agent if you see a home you want to tour.

Your Realtor will make all the appointments and represent YOU in the offer. The listing agent represents the seller and cannot disclose all that you will need to know about the property & the seller. Find an agent that makes his or her career full time in real estate. Agents usually know one another so if you are unhappy working with an agent and want to change to another please let them know that you will be doing so. This alleviates miscommunications and it's just the right thing to do. An agent will work hard for you if you are loyal.

2. The right house is waiting for you. Sometimes deals just don't work out. You will know as soon as you walk into the perfect home. Everything will fall into place perfectly if it is meant to be. If not...keep looking and stay open to new ideas. If it feels right then make an offer...don't procrastinate.

3. Commission is paid by the sellers. This is how your agent gets paid. Basically, the seller has agreed with his listing agent an amount to pay the buyer's agent at closing. Your agent may show you homes for a long time or it might only be a few homes. All negotiated commission is divided among the agents at closing. The buyer will not have to pay for this.

4. Don't ask for too many opinions from friends and family. It's natural to want reassurance for a big decision, but too many ideas will make it harder to make a decision. If Grandpa is not going to live in the house he isn't going to like all those steep stairs, pool, etc. Negative opinions can spoil all your excitement.

5. Accept that no house is perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.

6. Don't try to be a killer negotiator. Trying to "win" by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love. Angry sellers do not try to be helpful if you need special considerations later before closing like extra time to get the financing right. Don't be stubborn over the small stuff.

7. Get approved for a mortgage before you find a home. A good lender will see your credit report and offer help in disputing items that need to be removed. This will raise your score and possibly get you a lower interest rate. Not all lenders are skilled in this. Same as with your agent the lender needs to fit with your personality and return your calls promptly. The best ones stay in close contact with your agent also. You can bet that your agent has a good idea of the best lenders to work with to get a successful closing. It can all fall apart by closing time if you don't have the right lender.

8.Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-home buying budget. Even in a new home there will be some costs. Homes are not perfect and even though you have had many repairs made after a home inspection sellers are not going to patch every hole in the walls and leave it spotless. You may have to shampoo carpet and upgrade fixtures to your liking. It's all a part of buying a home.

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Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Sometimes It's the Little Things That Get you Through Your Day

Sun, 14 Sep 2008 11:20:28 -0500

There are times when life just seems overwhelming.

We have to deal with bills, jobs, gas, food, health issues and relationships. It's an uphill struggle just to make it through the day. The nights are sometimes sleepless ones with worries that absolutely leave us terrified and shaking!

As we put one foot in front of the other we try to find a way to cope or just to try and make sense of why we are all on separate roads of discovery. We are all dealing with hardships.

Many years ago when Dad was working at the family business he found a huge beautiful moth that had died and he brought it home to me. I had never seen one like it. I kept it in my room for years. I have a specific memory of that moth and of Dad. Somehow, I always connected the two.

One night last year I was going through a trying time in my life. I was out at a Mexican Restaurant with a best friend. As we sat there talking and working through my problems, a huge moth just like the one Dad had given me landed on the window. His colorful wings were outstretched and he stayed right there. I was astonished! It was exactly the same type! What are the chances that this would happen? Now I've only seen two of these in my life. Back then when he gave it to me... and then!

As soon as I saw it, I felt Dad was with me. He had sent the moth as a sign that he was still watching over me. When I told my girlfriend, she said the hairs on her neck stood up and she felt it too. She had never seen one of these moths in her life. We watched in amazement as he stayed there on the window for a long time. I was comforted in this small way that I was not alone.

A few weeks ago, another huge moth came right to my house and stayed on either my front door wreath or beside the door frame. He would be here every morning and vanish during the day. Every night he came back and stayed till dawn. This went on over 2 weeks time.

Now what are the chances that the same moth keeps revisiting like a bird?

I have no idea. What was comforting was that there were many things I was going through and on top of that, my dog Chanel was in the hospital. It has been stressful every day.

Each night the moth continued his vigil. I was comforted each morning when I went to see if he was still there. He always was.

The day Chanel was released to come home for the weekend he hasn't been back.

Do I dare to think that the dangerous time has passed and things will be better?

Maybe all the prayers of the past week have helped her. I desperately want that to be true. Please keep Chanel in your prayers. I do condition updates on this blog post.

The moth comforts when I need to feel like Dad is still watching over me. He sends the moth to remind me that I am protected, loved and things will be alright if I stay positive.

Sometimes it's the little things that get you through your day.

How To Get An Offer On Your Home In A Slow Market

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 11:47:40 -0500

How To Get An Offer On Your Home In A Slow Market

The past few years have been great to get houses sold for a good price. There were even multiple offers everywhere. What I noticed overall was just HOW houses sold faster.

It wasn't because: the agent was brilliant, the marketing was spot on, open houses were held every weekend or even that there was more than one prospective buyer.

What sold the house fast was that sellers took out unnecessary stuff and added paint then cleaned it up!

Now we are in a buyer's market and it it taking a bit longer to get homes sold. In the Lexington KY market the average days on market is approximately 82 days. As sellers, there are some basics to make your home stand out in a sea of homes for sale.

For most of you this is just everyday stuff. I am cleaning ZEN kind of person and I just like my house clean and fresh. I do have a little dog with mountains of hair but you would never know it when you come inside. I enjoy cleaning. Some people hate it! Many houses I listed that sold lighting fast had pro-active sellers. They had done their homework by checking out new homes to see how they could compete... and it worked!

The number one pet peeve of buyers when looking at homes was wallpaper. When you look at new homes it just isn't there. Not even a border.If you want to get your house sold take out every inch of wallpaper or border. I know you thought it matched your decor, but the next buyer will probably hate it. Not only that, but he will not even want to take the time to take it off the wall. This is when he will roll his eyes and look at his agent and say..."Next". Borders and wallpaper date your home and designers rarely suggest it. Get to work and take it down.

The next in line is paint color. Again take a look at some new homes and pick out neutral earth tone colors. Stay away from pinks, purples, blues, and tutti-frutti tones. Freshen your baseboards by cleaning them and paint. Doors too if needed. Most times all the trim just needs cleaning. You know it's the one thing you never do!

Another peeve is knick-knacks and collections. Keep in mind at all times...you want to move! Pack all that stuff like dolls, angels, toys, religious icons, stuffed animals, glass figurines, deer antlers, gun racks, china, family pictures, stacks of books and magazines, pill bottles, etc. The goal is to make surfaces look a little empty.Don't leave placemats and china on the table either. Replace it with a nice centerpiece like a bowl of fresh green apples or vase of cut flowers. Take off appliances (Blenders,can openers, etc.) rarely used and old towels and sponges on kitchen counters and sink. Survey every room and pack up unnecessary objects. Less is more!

I started to put this at number one but it is SMELL. Your house needs to smell nice when buyers arrive. It is the first impression they will have. I'm not talking about air freshener (that will turn them off fast too!). It should be a "CLEAN" smell. Almost no smell at all. Get carpets and floors professionally cleaned to start. Clean dead bugs and cobwebs out of windows and blinds, dust off ceiling fans and light fixtures.

ANIMALS - Take them with you when the house is being shown. Cute pets in the house or yard do not help you sell your home. Litter boxes are a BIG YUCK! Stick it out in the garage on your way to the car. Put away dirty dog bowls. Some people will not even look at a house that has had dogs or cats. I don't blame them. To sell a home with pets you will have to work harder than the average homeowner just to keep it clean and hair picked up. Have a friend who doesn't have pets come by to take a front door sniff test. Take it from there on how much cleaning will get rid of the odor.

O.K. that's a BIG start on what can get your house sold. Look at it like it is a part time job you have taken to make more money. You won't have to lower your asking price. Really, I'm not kidding. I want more than anything to see your home sell fast. Sometimes it's hard to say these things to clients. That's why I wrote it all down here...so I don't have to hurt your feelings. I spend long hours taking clients through house after house and see them turn their nose up at all this stuff.

Bottom line is you are ready to move, start packing it up and concentrate on the prize...a new home!

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Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Keeneland Sales / Lexington Kentucky / Horse Capitol of The World

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:25:34 -0500

Keeneland Sales / Lexington Kentucky / Horse Capitol of The World

Lunch at Keenland Sales costs 3.7 million!

Well...not exactly! My lunch was $4.00 but for Mr. O'Byrne it was 3.7 million!

This happened last September, but imagine having a delicious lunch and in the room next door a live auction is underway at Keeneland Sales. What is up for sale is a beautiful Kentucky thoroughbred colt.

The bidders seem to be hidden because it's hard to tell who is bidding.I swear they must bid with their eyes by blinking because I don't see anyone scratching their nose or raising a finger. Then suddenly as the bid is going up $200,000 a lick... it ends at 3.7 million! Sold! Number 432 to Demi O'Byrne, bloodstock agent for John Magnier's Coolmore Stud.

His rival bidder was Texas-based owner Clarence Scharbauer Jr. The prize was the gray son of Unbridled's Song.In his pedigree included legendary stakes winners: Unbridled, A.P.Indy, Alydar and Seattle Slew. What a fabulous bloodline!

I know many people come to Keeneland in Kentucky to watch horses race, but to me the Keeneland Sales are the most exciting.

Have a nice lunch and watch people spend BIG money. AHHHHhhhh...What a life!

Open now until September 23, 2008

I LOVE KENTUCKY!

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

A Day At The Animal Hospital Is Like A Day Without Sunshine

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 21:14:20 -0500

It's been quiet at the house today. Chanel, my sweet Lhasa-Pom had to go to the hospital this morning.

It all started on Sunday morning when she didn't want any breakfast. She started throwing up. This went on all day then into the night.

I made a call to the vet, Dr. Taylor and left a message. Later, he called and told me if she still felt bad in the morning to bring her in.

Sure enough as soon as I got out of bed she threw up again. I hated to take her, but I really didn't know what was wrong with her.

I loaded her in the car with her bunny and off we went to the animal hospital. An emergency case to be fit in their schedule. I gave her a kiss and assured her I would be back for her as soon as they would let me. I was relieved that Dr. Taylor would know something about her condition.

The home office was so quiet I couldn't work. I'm so used to having her around to keep me sane. I missed her barking at nothing, potty breaks and playing with her toys. So, I waited....to hear any news.

Finally around 3PM I got the call. She was pretty sick and had a fever.Now on antibiotics and a shot for nausea. Possibly pancreatitis or an infection of some sort. The bloodwork results tomorrow might give a clue. An x-ray showed nothing.

They did tell me I could take her homeand give her more of the antibiotic tonight. So I anxiously went to fetch her home. I really didn't want her sick and in a cage all night at the hospital even though she would get the best of care. I hope for good news tomorrow.

She has spent her evening under the bed, sleeping and weak as a kitten. No food for 2 days and throwing up might do that to you. She can barely walk. Anyway, I'm hoping she will feel better tomorrow. It's funny how our pets take over our lives. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Richmond Pottery Festival / Richmond Kentucky

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:22:52 -0500

Richmond Pottery Festival in Richmond Kentucky

The Great American Pottery Festival has come a long way since it's inaugural event back in 2004. It's held in historic Irvine McDowell Park on Lancaster Avenue in Richmond, Kentucky. September 5 - 7.

This year's pottery festival will showcase works of art, demonstrations and pieces for sale from Bybee Pottery, Tater Knob Pottery, Flatwoods Pottery and others. Also at this event will be craft vendors, entertainment, food vendors and Kids Fest.

The 8th Annual Kids Fest will feature:

Stage Shows, Walk Around Characters, Inflatables, and Games and Prizes. Kids will love the free petting zoo with $3 pony rides.

The Pottery Festival hours are:

Friday, Sept. 5, 6:00PM - 10:00PM

Saturday, Sept. 6, 10:00AM - 5:00PM

Sunday, Sept. 7, 1:00 - 5:00PM

For more information:

Pottery Festival

Richmond Tourism Department
345 Lancaster Ave
Richmond, KY 40475
(859)626-8474
E-mail: tourism@richmond.ky.us

Kids Fest

Richmond Parks & Recreation Dept.
321 North Second St.
Richmond, KY 40475
(859) 623-8753
E-mail: parksandrec@richmond.ky.us

Lizette Fitzpatrickis a Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Berea Spoonbread Festival / Berea Kentucky

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:20:11 -0500

Berea Spoonbread Festival / Berea Kentucky

If you haven't had a bite of spoonbread in your life, now is the time to eat your fill of the tasty stuff! Granny used to make this for the family get-together. Not to be confused with those tasty grits!

The 12th annual Berea Spoonbread Festival has plenty of activities, 5-K Run, 1 Mile Walk, crafts, free concerts and events to please everyone in the family. Located in the heart of Berea, Kentucky, the Folk Arts And Crafts Capitol Of Kentucky.

Have you ever wondered how it's made?

Ingredients:

1 cup white cornmeal
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold milk
2 large eggs, well beaten
2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation:

In a large saucepan, combine cornmeal with 2 cups of water; add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring mixture to a boil then lower the heat; cook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes. The mixture will be very stiff. Remove from heat and slowly stir in 1 cup of cold milk. Stir in the beaten eggs and melted butter. Preheat oven to 400° and heat a greased 1 1/2 to 2-quart baking dish or 8-inch square baking dish. Pour the well blended batter into the hot baking dish; bake for about 40 minutes, or until firm in the middle and nicely browned. Serve hot, straight from the baking dish. This quantity provides 4 to 6 small servings; for more, double the recipe.

Go try it first at the festival.

Some of the events will be:

Hot Air Balloon Glow

Pancake Breakfast

5-K Race & 1 Mile Walk

Scenic Motorcycle Ride

Music Concerts

Dog Show

Car Show

Kiddie Land Carnival Rides

Loads of yummy spoonbread to eat at the Spoonbread Eating Contest!

The Berea Spoonbread Festival hours:

Friday - September 19th, 3:00PM - 8:00PM

Saturday - September 20th, 6AM - 8:00PM

Sunday - September 21st, 10AM - 5:00PM

For more information call : 859-986-9760

Lizette Fitzpatrickis a Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Midway Fall Festival / Midway Kentucky

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 13:44:44 -0500

Midway Fall Festival in Midway Kentucky is the place to be in September.

This historic town hosts this event in the heart of the downtown Midway.

As you can see from this picture there is a train track that runs right down the middle of Main Street. The train from RJ Corman made it's apearance for my picture last year. Everyone stops what they are doing to point and to see!

There will be vendors seling jewelry, crafts, pottery, antiques and more. Be sure to bring your checkbook or cash. I made that mistake last year when I was only carrying my Visa card. Most vendors don't take plastic.

I can't believe a whole year has passed since I attended the fabulous Midway Fall Festival. This picture is of an artist that sculpts beautiful historic figures in sand.

SEPT. 20 & 21, 2008

SAT. 10 -6 SUN. 12 - 5

*ARTS & CRAFTS

*FABULOUS FOOD

*CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES

*FARMERS MARKET

*MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

If you haven't visited Midway this will be a great time to bring the family and enjoy the day.

For more information on what fun Midway Kentucky can be check out:

Lizette Is Back In Midway, Kentucky On A Mission

Midway, Kentucky is a Tourist's Secret! Shhhhhhhh!

Lizette Fitzpatrick is a Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Surprised Kentucky Buyer Finds BIGFOOT In House Bought At Auction

Sun, 24 Aug 2008 22:22:57 -0500

Surprised Kentucky Buyer Finds BIGFOOT In House Bought At Auction

There he was! BIGFOOT! Asleep in the basement!! The new owner was shocked to say the least! He thought he had gotten a bargain but instead he had a monster of a problem.

Soon, his life would spin out of control.

Imagine...you do your homework on a house that has gone through foreclosure.

You have all your ducks in a row to be able to bid at auction.

You are buying it without the benefit of a home inspection. There could be bats in the belfry too.

I have had so many people call me to see if I keep up with foreclosed houses that go to auction. I actually do not. I almost bought one about 4 years ago.

Lucky for me, there was something that came up on my credit report at the last minute that I had to dispute. I hated it at the time, but it was a blessing in disguise. I think of it now every time I pass by that house. Now I have a much nicer one down the street for about $6000 less and 4 years newer. (With zero problems)

At the time it was going to be up for auction, prospective bidders could not go in and inspect it. I would peep in the windows and wonder the layout of the house. I found out later that because of water problems over the winter, there was black mold in the walls downstairs. Now that would be a monster in the basement.

I have heard from others that they have bought some of these sadly neglected homes. Please be careful and do what you can to inspect these houses before you buy at an auction or from a bank. Not all are fantastic bargains. You never know where Bigfoot may be living!

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor® on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Previous Blog Post - What Sellers Can Do To Add Appraisal Value To Their Homes

Kentucky State Fair / Louisville KY

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:20:29 -0500

Kentucky State Fair Louisville KY

The excitement builds as you arrive off I-65 to the Kentucky State Fair exit ramp.

As Monica Hess (AR's fabulous KY Feng Shui blogger) and I drove up to the ticket booth we joked with the attendant that we wanted 2 senior citizen tickets.

He wasn't buying our story and waved us on through with a big smile.

Would it be the same as I remembered? Would I find lots of neat stuff? What would be new? What are they giving away? What have I been missing out on all these years?

I have to admit I had not been to the Kentucky State Fair since the 80's. I think I saw Dolly Parton in concert and a championship horse show. I'm sure it has changed since then.

As we pulled into parking lot N, we wondered where to go next. We crossed the street to the shuttle pickup that was a farm tractor pulling a blue wagon that had seats on each side. Our tour guide shouted out the points of interest so we would know where to go.

Freddy Farm Bureau has been a fixture of the Kentucky State Fair for as long as I can remember.

When I was a little girl, I talked to him and was amazed how he saw me. Yes, he really does talk to anyone that comes close!

There were two boys that approached him after I took the picture today. As they hung out at the fence he said, "Boys, you two look tired." They laughed and kept talking to Freddy. He's pretty smart!

Freddy Farm Bureau is always at the front entrance to the Kentucky State Fair. There are also numerous booths for food of all sorts and and entertainment.

It's a good idea to visit the information booth on the way in to ask questions and to be able to find out if your favorite animal, show or exhibit is going to be there.

Monica was dying to see mules. So we asked at the info both to see where they would be. She told us they had left that morning. We had to make due with cows instead. So off we go to see some cow judging.

This guy was waiting patiently for his turn at stardom. He had been scrubbed, primped, sprayed and polished to win a blue ribbon.

We wished him the best of luck and headed out to get something good to eat.

Pulled pork Bar B Q sounded tasty so we placed our order then headed into the entertainment tent to enjoy the show while we chowed down. The group that was delivering some down home music was the Whiskey River Boys. They sure were good!

With our bellies full of Bar B Q, we plotted what was to be next on our tour. Monica studied the fair schedule and decided we needed to see the world's largest dog over in Ehibit Hall B.

We were off on our search for the dog...but we never found him. Instead we saw lost of booths to sell just about everything under the sun.

Slice N dicers, car polish, hot tubs, rocking chairs, belly button jewelry, sheets?, sun glasses, windows, ring cleaners, time shares, t-shirts, crafts, Ginsu knives, toenail decals, candy, miracle cloths, sore foot pads, Craftmatic beds and FUDGE!

This guy was making the fudge while we watched. He had a BIG crowd cheering him on!

After the fudge show, we wondered over to the prize winning entries that had been judged. Earlier when we were in the last exhibit hall, I had told Monica about this fun show I liked to watch on TV called "Cash Cab."

We were inspecting the homemade wines that had won ribbons and there was one labeled "Cash Cab!" How bizarre is that!

Here is a handmade guitar I thought was beautiful and original.

As we headed back out to the entrance to give our feet a rest, I took a pictures of the fountain.

I think we are about ready to call it a day!

Last call for cotton candy before we pile back onto the shuttle tractor.

Kentucky State Fair in Louisville KY will stay open until August 24th.

Come on out and have some fun! It's a great attitude adjustment!

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Previous Blog Post - What Sellers Can Do To Add Appraisal Value To Their Homes

What Sellers Can Do To Add Appraisal Value To Their Homes

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 18:04:06 -0500

What Sellers Can Do To Add Appraisal Value To Their Homes

I was talking today to an appraiser about adding value to a home for an appraisal. I had planned to use it as a topic on the Welcome Home Show that I taped today. I decide to go ahead and share the ideas with my newsletter clients and blog subscribers.

If you have the best house in the subdivision don't upgrade inside. If your home is of less of lesser value to the neighbor's homes it will add value.

Add square footage extensions like extra bathroom, bedroom, family room....basements don't count for much. 1st floor and above floors can add value of $65 - $85 per sq ft.

Add hardwood, tile, crown molding, concrete or asphalt driveway or professional finishing inside.

In kitchens - new surfaces: Cabinets(re-paint), countertops, sinks, range tops, built in ovens, flooring. Repaint the walls.

Bathrooms - New Tile floor, double vanity(higher level in master), garden or whirlpool tub, , separate tile shower, toilet, Re-paint walls

Other additions that add value: porch, deck, fireplace, garage, carport or patio.

The condition of your home will add value if it looks well taken care of inside and out.

Buyers are really liking garage hanging storage wall systems even better than jazzed up kitchens, formal dining or big backyard! Who would have thought this?

Buyers decide whether to get out of their car based on the outside appearance of your home.

Take the time to wash windows, trim bushes, repaint the front door, mailbox and pull weeds. It tells a lot about how you care for your property. These homes all appraise well.

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor® on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Previous Blog Post - St. James Art Show In Louisville KY

St James Art Show In Louisville KY

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:52:15 -0500

St James Art Show In Louisville KY

I can hardly believe that almost a year has gone by and it will be time once again to see all the wonderful art at the St James Art Show. This is one of my favorite Kentucky Festivals!

The 52nd annual show will be on October 3rd - 5th this year. Hopefully, we will have some cooler weather than the last time I attended. My Mom and I almost melted from the over 90 degree weather.

My suggestions for your visit might be:

Dress in something cool.

Drink plenty of liquids.

Wear comfortable shoes to be on pavement all day.

Park in the neighborhood surrounding St. James Court. Residents rent out spots in their yards or driveways. That way you can carry back goodies to your car or just take a break and relax. Pay them...it's worth the price.

To check out more pictures and get official info check out St. James Art Show Website. There are some awesome pictures or the booths, art and festival attendees.

The show is in old Louisville, a historic preservation district. The houses date to 1870's and are made of brick with loads of stained glass windows. The neighborhood is the largest preservation district featuring almost entirely Victorian architecture in the USA.

Most of the homes are in the Victorian-era styles of Romanesque, Queen Anne, Italianate.

More about the history.

Plan to stay the day because it will take that long to visit all the booths with art.

The first time I visited, I went back on the last day(Sunday) to bargain for a particular piece of art. I have to say that the artist really did let me have a good deal.

One thing I did was pick up a few seeds(Indian Cigars my Dad used to call them) from a stately Caltapa tree in St. James Court and now I have two of the offsprings growing in my yard.

Determine your strategy and go have a good time. I will be counting the days till October 3rd!

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor® on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

Woodland Art Fair / Lexington KY

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 21:03:32 -0500

Woodland Art Fair Lexington KY

For 33 years, art lovers have been flocking to Woodland Park for the annual arts fair. August 6 & 17. The park is nestled in the heart of Lexington, KY sheltered by ancient trees and Bluegrass Trust homes line many of the historic streets.

Two hundred juried artists participated in this two day event held under a cool canopy of stately trees. White tents were scattered throughout the park displaying their wares.

The Woodland Art Fair usually attracts over 60,000 visitors. Craftsmanship displayed - jewelry, paintings, wood, metal, ceramics, clothes, photography and unique one of a kind items.

Food vendors offered some temping treats such as Italian Ice and hot kettle corn.

Mom and I stayed for a few hours enjoying the art. There is also a swimming pool and skateboard park on the grounds. It was amazing to see the skateboarders doing some daredevil feats in the air off concrete ramps.

If you missed the Woodland Art Fair this year be sure to mark your calender for next year.

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor® on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

WLAP 630AM Welcome Home Show With Kentucky Realtor® Lizette Fitzpatrick

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:32:38 -0500

WLAP 630AM Welcome Home Show With Kentucky Realtor® Lizette Fitzpatrick

Here we go again! I was invited back to the The Welcome Home Show by Larry Frakes to join him and his sidekick Jamie Mortimer of Guardian Savings Bank in Lexington KY. We taped the show that will air this Saturday August 16, 2008.

The topics? Localism, Real estate and what sellers can do if their listing has expired.

My first debut was last month that I blogged about in my post, WLAP 630AM Welcome Home Show With Kentucky Realtor® Lizette Fitzpatrick.

I have to admit, the first time I was a bit nervous. This time it was a whole lot easier to talk about what I know best.

I also spent some time to tell sellers about the new service I offer through Prudential Prea Center.

I can give all my sellers daily updates on their listings by email that includes hits, views, new competition listings nearby, any competition's price changes and also if the viewer of their listings has bookmaked them to save.

Sellers are thrilled to see this in their mailbox from me everyday!

Sellers love Realtors® to stay in touch.

I also talked about Localism.com and what it means to our communities.

It is a place to brag about what we have in our towns. Places of interest, restaurant reviews, history, articles, pictures, videos and more. Research any place you would like to visit in the USA before you go.

Yes, time really goes by fast in six minutes! I hope to be back again soon. Check it out when it airs this Saturday.

Click on LISTEN LIVE on WLAP at 10AM Saturday.

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor® on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

See for yourself what Lizette's extraordinary clients have to say about their Kentucky real estate experience.

24 Hours in Central Kentucky: List A House In Richmond Ky then...BAM! Multiple Offers and Accepted Contract!

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 08:21:58 -0500

24 Hours in Central Kentucky: List A House In Richmond Ky then...BAM! Multiple Offers and Accepted Contract!

That was yesterday. It actually first started by one of my closings disappearing because of financing problems. Not a good way to start a day. The seller was not happy. Actually, I wasn't happy either but I appeared to be calm. We are back to square one on this listing.

On to the next deal of my day.

My brand new, formerly FSBO, listing, a cute little house on a quiet street in Richmond,KY. I called it my "Jewel with a pool."

I had just popped it on the two MLS systems. MCBR and LBAR.

There is a competing listing 2 doors down the street. It's been on the market awhile. The task was to make our new listing standout.

The owner spent her time painting every wall and kitchen cabinets, cleaned everything, new shower curtain, took out all but some furniture to look lived in, flowers on the breakfast table, nice pictures on walls, pulled weeds, cleaned up landscape and yard, nice vanilla air freshener wall units. Plus numerous last minute details.

She turned on all the lights and wished for the best.

I had already scheduled 2 showings for the evening. By 5:15PM the first ones arrived. At 6PM another agent wanted to tour it with her client. They were out front of the house.

Hmmm, I pondered,"go ahead because the next showing isn't until 7:15PM."

Then I get a call from both agents that they are writing offers!!

I call the third agent that hasn't even made it to the house with her client. She was running late but I wanted her to be in the offer situation if she wanted to be.

I inform the seller and she is beyond ecstatic! I inform the agents this is a multiple offer situation. Both agents were aware that they were competing to write the best deal.

By around 9PM one of the offers was accepted. I was thrilled for my seller who will get the money she wanted for her house and can close in a couple of weeks.

In a nutshell, it's all about a good price, cleaning everything and staging. Put your best foot forward when you start and everything will fall in place for you.

*****

Lizette Fitzpatrick - Baby Boomer Real Estate Relocation Specialist with Prudential Don Foster in Richmond, Kentucky.

Rated number #1 featured Kentucky Realtor® on Activerain.com and Localism.com. Publisher/Author for the only Central Kentucky email newsletter on local real estate listings and sold properties, Kentucky relocation, local events, homeowner information and fun! For more information on Lizette, Kentucky Horse Farms, Prudential Don Foster, Madison County, Fayette County, Richmond or Lexington, Kentucky click on Lizette.us.

Lizette Fitzpatrick, Realtor ®,Speaker, Artist and Author. Reach Lizette at: 859-979-2834