During the month of October and Halloween  there is an increased interest in ghosts, haunted houses and cemeteries. Lake Charles, LA is full of history and colorful stories of  Pirates along the Bayous and Lakes, as well as our founding fathers.   At the end of the Lake Charles Boardwalk and Veterans Memorial Park, you will find Bilbo Cemetery.  This is a Lake Charles LA landmark that many residents and visitors exiting off of I-10 drive by on a daily basis.  I decided to make a special trip to Bilbo Cemetery to get a up close and personal view!   Although I am not aware of any paranormal activity in Bilbo Cemetery and did not discover any ghosts;    what I did discover was a beautiful statue of Jesus and a little bit of  Lake Charles  history to share! Through the gates of Bilbo Cemeta... 10/24/2012

I am asked frequently by Home owners this burning question:  "What is My Home Worth?"  Your home is worth as much as the latest market value determined by the last comparable sale.   When evaluating and determining  a listing price your Lake Charles Home for Sale, I will prepare what is known as a CMA, comparative market analysis.  A Realtor is not an Appraiser, so a CMA is different than a Appraisal however both reports will include the latest comps for the neighborhood.   With the low mortgage rates many homeowners are taking advantage of refinancing and just like a new home purchase, an appraisal and closing costs will be involved in a  Refinance,   Sometimes it can be an eye opener what your home is really worth in today's market. An Appraiser Paid Me a Visit This Week! I have  expe... 10/22/2012

Like many Southwest Louisiana residents I  participated in two popular Lake Charles LA October community events over the weekend. The  weather was brisk and beautiful on Saturday October 20th while the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer 3k took place in Lake Charles.   i Hundreds walked and ran along Shell Beach Drive I completed the 3K and showed my support in the community! While the Ethel Precht 3k was taking place, crews and volunteers began to set up on for Rouge et Blanc 2012 on Ryan Street in front of the Lake Charles historic Courthouses. Rouge et Blanc is my favorite Lake Charles LA event and one that is not to be missed.  Rouge et Blanc is the 2nd largest wine event in Louisiana and is part of the McNeese Banners program.  This year my husband and I were  VIP Sponsors!!   Its alw... 10/21/2012

I am working on a new listing which was previously listed with another Broker.  When I recently met with the Seller to view the property, he mentioned that he owned the property with his 2 step-sons.  I explained that I would need to obtain the step-sons signatures on all the listing documents.  The Seller asked me why because the previous Realtor did not require him to do that......   In the State of Louisiana when any property is listed property disclosures must be completed and signed by any and  ALL Seller(s).   A helpful tip to remember when meeting with a property owner is to make sure ALL signatures are obtained on the listing documents.   Husband and Wife must both sign Separated Spouses not yet divorced must both sign Divorced but property settlement not complete, both spouses ... 10/17/2012

 ETHEL PRECHT HOPE BREAST CANCER RUN/WALK OCTOBER 20TH IN LAKE CHARLES LA     The pink banners have been up on the lightposts along the downtown median all month.  You have probably been noticing even the Pro Football teams getting into the act wearing pink to support Breast Cancer Month in October. Lake Charles LA residents will gather, at the Lake Charles Civic Center on October 20th to  participate in the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer 3K. This event is also a "pet friendly" walk/run run.   This Lake Charles event was founded in 2004 by Ethel Precht to benefit local residents who were undergoing treatment for breast cancer.         Come out and support a GREAT CAUSE in Lake Charles, LA October 20th, Hope to see you there! 10/14/2012

Homes For Sale in Lake Charles La-- Country Club Acres Subdivision This very popular  Lake Charles LA neighborhood is a favorite in South Lake Charles.  The homes in Country Club Acres are 25-30 years old, 3-4 bedroom ranging from 2,400-3,500 sq ft.  Don't let the age of a Lake Charles home stand in your way,many of these Country Club homes have been updated with an effective age of 2-5 years.   Location is important and Country Club Acres is conveniently located off of Country Club Road with grocery, churches, restaurants and fitness are all located nearby. Country Club Acres is also in the Barbe School District.  There are only two streets in the subdivision, W and E Quail Hollow. Call Marilyn Boudreaux with Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s (337) 499-9592, your Country Club Acres Subdiv... 10/12/2012

Homes For Sale in Lake Charles La--Providence Subdivision Call Marilyn Boudreaux with Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s (337) 499-9592, your Providence Subdivision  specialist.     Not sure if you want to buy  a lot, new construction home or a townhome in  Providence Subdivision? Click Lake Charles Homes for Sale to search the entire Southwest  Louisiana MLS  Providence Subdivision   is located  just off Country Club Road in South Lake Charles LA.  New construction homes are minimum of 2000 sq feet of living and have the popular features of wood flooring, granite, crown molding, high ceilings and Louisiana French Country design.  There are also townhomes located in the subdivision to choose from! There are currently two new construction homes for sale in Providence.  Fill out the form belo... 10/07/2012

Homes For Sale in Lake Charles La--Westridge Subdivision Call Marilyn Boudreaux with Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s (337) 499-9592, your Westridge Subdivision  specialist.     Not sure if you want to buy  a house in Westridge Subdivision? Click Lake Charles Homes for Sale to search the entire Southwest  Louisiana MLS Westridge Subdivision   is located  just off Country Club Road in South Lake Charles LA Fill out the form below to search homes for sale in  Westridge         Have a home or a lot to sell in Westridge? Contact Marilyn Boudreaux, Lake Charles LA Realtor, Century 21 Mike D Bono in Lake Charles, LA  337-499-9592     Want to know more about  Lake Charles Living and other Lake Charles Subdivisions and Communities? * 10/05/2012

This is my  "LARGER THAN LIFE" Tribute to Dolly Parton Costume from Halloween 2011! Lake Charles residents have an opportunity to see the ACTS Production of 9 to 5 The Musical with the opening performance October 5th at One Reid Street Theatre in Lake Charles. The plot of the musical is based on the hit movie starring Dolly Parton and includes musical numbers written by Dolly Parton. A portion of the opening gala performance of 9 to 5 $35 ticket will benefit the Calcasieu Women's Shelter.  The opening gala will also feature hors d'oeuvres, wine and champagne. Tickets to all other performances are $25 for adults and $15 for students.  You can purchase your ticket by calling Acts Theatre 337-477-2287 or online www.actstheatre.com.  My friend and co-agent at Century 21 Mike D Bono , Barry... 10/04/2012

 Lake Charles Homes for Sale in Benvue Subdivision A new subdivision located off of Holly Hill Road in South Lake Charles LA is Benvue.  There are several new construction homes being built in Benvue which feature the French style that have become increasingly popular in Southwest Louisiana. View Current Homes for Sale listed below 1209 Benvue $342,500 1127 Benvue $349,500 Contact Lake Charles Realtor, Marilyn Boudreaux, Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s 337 499 9592  View all Lake Charles Homes for Sale 09/28/2012

This well priced Moss Bluff home is beautiful! It is a traditional style, brick home with 2637 square feet ideally located in the heart of popular Moss Bluff. Odds are that with all it offers, it will sell quickly! It has 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths and offers tons of updating and amenities. For example, the wood-burning fireplace in the living room offersa place of warmth for friends and family or for the book reader to curl up for private moments to indulge in the latest Best Seller! There is a formal dining room to enjoy the results of the meals prepared in the chef's kitchen. The kitchen boasts antiqued cabinetry and granite counters. A breakfast nook and bar seating complete the setting of this friendly and warm atmosphere. The floorplan features the popular split-bedroom plan and ... 09/28/2012

Homes For Sale in Lake Charles La--Four Seasons Call Marilyn Boudreaux with Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s (337) 499-9592, your Four Seasons Subdivision  specialist. The Four Seasons is also located within close proximity of Barbe High School. There are currently two new construction homes for sale in Four Seasons: View 2255 Longue Vue $439,00 View 2320 Longue Vue $499,500 Not sure if you want to buy or build a house in Four Seasons? Click Lake Charles Homes for Sale to search the entire Southwest  Louisiana MLS   The Four Seasons is one of the newest Lake Charles subdivisions  featureing new construction homes in Lake Charles, La. with many  custom features  of stacked crown molding, rich colors, custom woodwork, high ceilings and open floor plans. .  This restricted Lake Charles subdi... 09/27/2012

Lake Charles LA New Construction Home Sold 622 Sycamore in Lake Charles LA is a three bedroom 2 bath home that  was listed by Marilyn Boudreaux, Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s This Lake Charles New construction Home SOLD for $91,500. Three bedroom 2 bath Lake Charles homes priced under $100,000 are in demand in Lake Charles, LA.   Lake Charles investors and home builders are wise to acquire property to build  similar homes like this example of 622 Sycamore which attract first time home buyers quickly.     Have a home to sell in  Lake Charles Louisiana? Contact Marilyn Boudreaux, Lake Charles LA Realtor, Century 21 Mike D Bono in Lake Charles, LA  337-499-9592 09/26/2012

As a Lake Chalres Realtor, I am frequently asked for referrals for various contractors.  Many home buyers who have purchased a new construction home, or builders of  Lake Chalres new construction homes will be in need of landscape services.  I like to refer contractors that I have personally used and can highly recommend. Whether you are looking for new landscaping,  an updated landscape design or yard repair, I highly recommend  Luke Woodard with Luke's Landscape Service in Lake Charles, LA  Luke's Landscape Service  has been committed to providing Southwest Louisiana with quality landscaping and construction services since 2006. A locally owned business, Luke Woodard takes pride in his service  and I experienced his commitment and professionalism  first hand when he completed a landsc... 09/25/2012

Homes For Sale in Lake Charles La--Windsor Court Call Marilyn Boudreaux with Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s (337) 499-9592, your Windsor Court Subdivision  specialist. Not sure if you want to buy or build a house in Windsor Court Subdivision? Click Lake Charles Homes for Sale to search the entire Southwest  Louisiana MLS   Windsor Court Subdivision  features new construction homes in Lake Charles, La. with custom features of 10' ceilings, crown molding, granite surfaces and french country style homes  to choose from.  This restricted Lake Charles subdivision is located South of Lake Street and conveniently located in Lake Charles LA Fill out the form below to search homes for sale in  Windsor Court.     With limited inventory and historically low interest rates buyers should expect comp... 09/24/2012

Homes For Sale in Lake Charles La--GRAYWOOD Call Marilyn Boudreaux with Century 21 Mike D Bono & Co.'s (337) 499-9592, your Graywood Community  specialist. Not sure if you want to buy a house in  Graywood? Click Lake Charles Homes for Sale to search the entire Southwest  Louisiana MLS   The Graywood Community  features some of the finest homes in Lake Charles, La. with several community sections of homes size and style to choose from as well as new construction homes.  This exclusive Lake Charles planned master community includes on site Golf, Tennis, Sports Center, Playground, Pool and Club House. Fill out the form below to search homes for sale in  Graywood.     With limited inventory and historically low interest rates buyers should expect competition over these fine Lake Charles hom... 09/21/2012

Lake Charles Duplex for Sale  INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY IN NORTH LAKE CHARLES.  3 BEDROOM 2 BATH DUPLEX  WHICH STAYS OCCUPIED WITH $700 INCOME PER UNIT. (TOTAL $1400/MO)  APPLIANCES INCLUDED WITH EACH UNIT ARE  WASHER, DRYER, REFRIGERATOR, DISHWASHER. PROPERTY IS 3 YEARS OLD.    COMBRE FONDEL ELEMENTARY AND THE MARTIN LUTHER KING RECREATIONAL CENTER ARE BOTH LOCATED NEARBY.     THE CITY OF LAKE CHARLES IS CURRENTLY MAKING ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ON PEAR STREET AND EXPANDING NEW DRAINAGE PIPES.  ANY CONSTRUCTION NOTICED NEAR PROPERTY IS DUE TO THIS LAKE CHARLES CITY PROJECT ON PEAR STREET.  View the Virtual Tour for 1408-10 Pear Street, Lake Charles, LA Schedule a Showing Lake Charles Real Estate Search All Homes For Sale Sulphur Real Estate Westlake Real Estate Homes Close to Where You Work Wha... 09/18/2012

  There is alot of confusion associated with how the new 3.8% tax will be applied.  Every circumstance will be different with the new 3.8% real estate tax .   I recently particiapted in a Web Presentation explaining examples of how the tax will be calculated.  I took photos of the slides from the presentation in order to share and only for informational purposes only--not as any financial advisor. The 3.8% real estate tax is NOT a transfer tax and it will not be collected at settlement on a residence or investment when a Seller sells a property. The tax is solely a real estate tax and it applies to any capital gain exceeding $250,000.  The tax is to be paid when 2013 tax returns are filed in 2014.          The 3.8% tax is based on a formula.   See the examples below for the amount of t... 09/17/2012

T.S. Cooley Elementary Magnet School in Lake Charles, LA   T.S. Cooley Elementary Magnet School is located at 2711 Common Street in Lake Charles, LA View Larger Map There are curently 302 students in Kindergarten through 5th Grade who attend T.S. Cooley Elementary in Lake Charles. Some of the special programs include:   Music-   The music program at T.S. Cooley provides the students with opportunities for creativity and self expression.  Students in Grades 4 & 5 may elect to be a member of the Performing Choir.  Music is offered daily to students in K-3rd grade and students in Grades 3-5 may take Piano lessons as part of the Enrichment Curriculum. Art-  Art is taught twice a week to all students in Grades K-5.  Students in Grades 4&5 may elect to take Advanced Art for their Enrichment P... 09/11/2012

Buyers typically want to wait before moving forward with any home purchase.  Buying a home is a big decision and a large investment so evaluating a home purchase is important.  However, as a Lake Charles LA Realtor,it  is disappointing  when I to have to inform Buyers that they waited too long----the home is no longer available.  The average days on market for a listing in Southwest Louisiana is within 120 days.  Price, location and condition  of a home for sale are figured into that average.  When a Lake Charles home for sale has all the right points the property will attract a buyer and go under contract quickly. Qualified buyers searching for a Lake Charles, Sulphur, Westlake or Moss Bluff LA home for sale should be prepared to act quickly once you find a property that meets your nee... 09/07/2012