Real Estate Information

The Worlds Longest Yard Sale

Get ready bargain shoppers!!  It's that time of year again...time for the worlds longest yard sale.  And there's loads of deals to be had. 

The yard sale runs straight through Kentucky and our area.  It is 675 Miles long and begins in Hudson, Michigan and runs through US 127 and ends in Gadsden, Alabama.  For those of you looking locally, you can start in Covington, Kentucky and go through Florence, Kentucky, Union, Kentucky and into Gallatin County and then on into the heart of the Bluegrass.  There are also many great yard sales in the neighborhoods located just off US 127 where more deals await.  The intent of the sale was to give travelers a reason to take the scenic route and boost local economies in counties and towns bypassed by the interstate highway system.

The yard sale begins August 4 and runs through August 7.  Let us know if you get any good deals.  The best deal we came across was an almost new oven/stove for 20$.  There was nothing wrong with it, the owner got a new flat top and needed to unload it.  Don't forget to haggle over prices...everything is negotiable!   And don't forget the bottled water!  Happy Shopping!

 

This blog is part of our ongoing series titled "365 Things To Do In Northern Kentucky."  Check out our previous posts or "like" us on Facebook for loads more community information.

GRANT COUNTY FAIR

The smell of funnel cakes is in the air, you hear the screams of happy children as they ride the rides and you hear the men cheering on for their favorite tractor or demolition derby car and you know its fair time!!  Then on to the horses, the pigs, the cows, the vegetable and of course the pageants!!!

The Grant County Fair located in Grant County, Kentucky on US 25, at Grant Park, kicks off its 2011 Fair on Friday, July 29, 2011 at 7:00pm with the Youth Talent Competition, Dead Weight Tractor Pull, Mud Run and Horse Show.  Gates open at 5:00pm and admission that night is $5.00 at the gate.  The rest of the weeks schedule is as follows:

Saturday, July 30 (No Rides - Admission at the Gate $5.00)
9:30 am 4-H/FFA Poultry Show
10:00am Baby Show (Amphitheater)
2:00pm Toddler Show (Amphitheater)
5:00pm 4-H/FFA Rabbit Show
5:00pm Walking Horse Show (Horse Ring)
7:00pm Battle of the Bluegrass Pulling Series (Main Track)

Monday, August 1. 2011 (Rides open at 6pm) Admission is $8.00
6:00pm 4-H Cloverbuds Livestock Show
7:00pm Grand County Only Horse Show
7:00pm ORVTPA Truck and Tractor Pull (Main Track)
7:30pm Cornhole Tournament
8:00pm Miss Grand County Fair Pageant (Amphitheater)

Tuesday, August 2, 2011 (Rides open at 6pm) Admission is $8.00
5:00pm 4-H/FFA/open Market Goat Show
1:00pm 4-H/FFA Tractor Driving Contest
7:00pm Open Youth & GC 4-H Contest Horse Show
7:00pm NKTPA Truck & Tractor Pull (Main Track)
7:30pm Cornhole Tournament
8:00pm Miss Teen Pageant (Amphitheater)

Wednesday, August 3, 20011 (Rides open at 6pm) Admission is $8.00
10:00am 4-H/FFA/Open Swine Show (enter at 8:30am)
7:00pm 4-H/FFA/open Dairy Goat Show
6:00pm Motocross Race (Motocross Track)
7:00pm Truck & Tractor Pull (Truck & Tractor Pull Track)
7:00pm Horseshoe Contest
8:00pm Little Miss Junior Pageant (Amphitheater)
8:30pm Miss Pre Teen Pageant (Amphitheater)

Thursday, August 4, 2011 (Rides open at 6pm) Admission is $8.00
10:30am 4-H/FFA & open Dairy Show (enter at 9:30am)
7:00pm 4-H/FFA & Open Sheet Show (enter at 6:00pm)
6:00pm Family & Children's Fun Night
7:00pm Garden Tractor Pull (Track 2)
7:00pm Hudnall Small Truck Pull (Main Track)
7:00pm Performance by Shelly's Gymnastics (Amph.)
7:00pm Horseshoe Contest
7:30pm Corn Hole Tournament Championship

Friday, August 5, 2011 (Rides open at 6pm) Admission is $8.00
4:00pm 4-H/FFA Beef Show (enter at 3:00pm)
6:00pm Open Beef Show (enter at 4:00pm)
7:00pm NKTTA Truck Tuggers Tu O War (Track 2)
7:00pm Blue Grass Horse Pull (Horse Ring)
7:00pm Truck Drag Racing (Truck & Tractor Pull Track)
7:00pm Horseshoe Championship
8:00pm Little Miss & Mister Pageant (Amphitheater)

Saturday, August 6, 2011 (Rides Open at 6pm) Admission is $8.00
9-11am Remove All Exhibits & Pick Up Premium Checks
8:00am Mile Race (Grant County High School Track)
10:00am 4-H Cat Show (enter at 9:30am)
10:00am Miniature Horse Show
1:30pm 4-H/FFA Show of Showmen
4:30pm Open Pet Show (enter at 4:00pm)
5:00pm Remote Control Truck Pull (Horse Racing)
7:00pm 4-H/FFA Sale of Champions (Buyer's Meal 5:30pm)
7:00pm Demo Derby (Demo Derby Track)
7:00pm ATV Dirt Drag (Main Track)
8:00pm Arm Wrestling (weigh-in 7:30pm)
8:00pm Live Music by Quentin Flagg (Amphitheater)

You can buy discounted fair tickets at Dry Ridge Toyota in the parts department for $6.00 each.  This is an exclusive offer that is only being offered at Dry Ridge Toyota.  The ticket includes access to unlimited rides, shows and events.  Free parking and shuttle service is also available from the Grant County Middle School.

Have fun and see you at the fair!!!!

Interested in more fun things to do in Northern Kentucky?  Check out our "365 Things To Do In Northern Kentucky" Blog.  Follow us on Facebook for more interesting happenings in Northern Kentucky.  All courtesy of The Mike Parker Team/HUFF Realty.  A great resource for homes available in Grant County.

FLORENCE AQUATIC CENTER

When the mercury rises above 90 and the heat index is into the 100's it's time to cool off and take a trip to the Florence Aquatic Center located in Florence, Kentucky.  It's a perfect way to spend the day with the family so grab the kids and the sunscreen!!

This incredible facility includes a lazy river where floating and relaxing are the norm, a competition pool, a zero depth area, perfect for the little ones, sunbathing areas, slides of all shapes and sizes, two spray grounds, funbrellas and a concession area.  There is a charge for daily admission to the facility and Florence residence receive a discount.  Swim lessons, aquacize, diving and scuba lessons are also offered for an additional charge.

The Florence Aquatic Center is located off Burlington Pike on Ewing Dr. at the Florence Government Center.  It is open until August 21, 2011 from 11:00am to 7:00pm.  Go out and make a splash!  You'll be glad you did.

Do you have something fun to do in Northern Kentucky?  Contact us and let us know.  This blog "365 Things To Do In Northern Kentucky," is written by The Mike Parker Team/HUFF Realty.  Visit us on Facebook and Twitter for more exciting Northern Kentucky Information.

Kentucky Speedway Sprint Cup Race

Calling all race fans....the Sprint Cup has FINALLY arrived in Northern Kentucky!!!  Race fans began their decent to the Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, Kentucky on Tuesday and are still pouring in.  The long awaited arrival of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race has sent fans into a frenzy of excitement. 

Campers are lining up by the hundreds and there hasn't been a buzz in this area for decades.  The Quaker State 400 Sprint Cup race will begin at 7:30pm on Saturday night on July 9, 2011 and consists of 267 laps.

Drivers have been sighted this past week all over the tri-state making appearances.  Tony Stewart was at the Florence Home Depot welcoming fans.  This surely is an exciting time for Northern Kentucky.

Below is a time frame of all upcoming events:

Thursday 7-7-11

10-11 a.m.: Trucks final practice

11:05 a.m.-3 p.m.: Sprint Cup testing

3:05 p.m.: Trucks qualifying (two laps, all positions)

4-6 p.m.: Sprint Cup testing

6:10-7:25 p.m.: Nationwide practice

7:35 p.m.: Trucks driver introductions

8 p.m.: UHNO 225 Trucks race (150 laps, 225 miles)

Friday  7-8-11

9-11 a.m.: Nationwide final practice

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Sprint Cup practice

1:30-3 p.m.: Sprint Cup final practice

3:35 p.m.: Nationwide qualifying

5:10 p.m.: Sprint Cup qualifying

7 p.m.: Nationwide driver introductions

7:30 p.m.: Feed the Children 300 Nationwide race (200 laps, 300 miles)

Saturday  7-9-11

7 p.m.: Sprint Cup driver introductions

7:30 p.m.: Quaker State 400 Sprint Cup race (267 laps, 400.5 miles)

Download this map courtesy of the Cincinnati Enquirer to see all of the improvements as well as areas of the Kentucky Speedway.  We think it will help get you around as well as teach you something new.

Get ready ......Gentleman Start Your Engines.......

This blog is part of our ongoing series, "365 Things To Do In Northern Kentucky."  View homes located near the speedway in Gallatin County, Kentucky or contact The Mike Parker Team/HUFF Realty for more information.

FIREWORKS

Are you ready for a little Red, White and BOOM?  We compiled a list of all of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area fireworks for the upcoming 4th of July weekend.  Hopefully you can find one near you and check it out.  Don't forget to take lots of pictures and bring a lawn chair!!  Have a safe and happy Holiday Weekend!!

Northside Rock 'n' Roll Carnival

Hoffner Park- 4104 Hamilton Avenue - Northside

July 1 : 6 p.m. - 1 a.m. Scheduled to appear: Moonshine Drive, Magnolia Mountain, the Dukes, Team Void, Masters of the Obvious, Two Headed Dog and Man Halen.

Includes beer garden, local food and music.

Newport Motorcycle Rally

Festival Park Newport - Riverboat Row - Newport

July 1 : 5 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Music, food, games, motorcycle show, contests and prizes.

Independence Day Celebration

Independence Memorial Park - 2001 Jack Woods Parkway - Independence

July 1 : 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Music by the Mike Heile Band at 7 p.m.

 

City of Madeira Independence Day Festivities

Sellman Park - 6700 Marvin Ave. - Madeira

July 1 : 8 p.m. Music by Stagger Lee.

Madeira Middle School. Food booths and entertainment. Madeira Mile at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks display at 10 p.m.

City of Madeira's Independence Day Parade

Madeira High School- 7465 Loannes Drive - Madeira

July 1 : 7 p.m.

Parade leaves high school and proceeds south on Miami Avenue to St. Gertrude's Church. Concessions available.

Union Celebrates America Parade and Fireworks

Union Community Building - 10087 Old Union Road - Union

July 1 : 6 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Parade on US 42 from Union Kroger to Ryle High School starting at 6 p.m. Music at Community Building begins 6:30 p.m. Fireworks at dark. Food and drinks available. Bounce attractions for children. Bring seating.

Fort Thomas Independence Day Celebration

Tower Park - 950 S. Fort Thomas Ave. - Ft. Thomas

July 2 : 3 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Classic car show 3-7:30 p.m., followed by classic car parade at 7:45 p.m. Games, inflatables, food, beverages and beer booth 3-10:30 p.m. Music by Hot Wax Band 8-10 p.m. Fireworks at 10 p.m.

Aurora Firecracker Festival

City of Aurora - Aurora

July 2 : 4 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Music by Bob Hudson and the Country Kings 4:30-7 p.m. and Steve Pratt and the Oakley Avenue Band 7:30-10 p.m.

Due to Lesko Park construction, festival held at river end of Fourth Street at Ind. 56. WWII veterans recognition, music and fireworks.

Fourth of July Weekend Fireworks Extravaganza

Kings Island - 6300 Kings Island Drive - Mason

July 2 : 10 a.m. - 12 a.m. Rozzi's Famous Fireworks at 10 p.m.

More than 80 rides, shows and attractions, including the Beast and Diamonback roller coasters, Boomerang Bay and Planet Snoopy. Dinosaurs Alive! with park admission: $5.

City of Independence Fourth of July Parade

Summit View Middle School - 5002 Madison Pike - Independence

July 2 : 3 p.m.

Parade starts at middle school, travels south on Madison Pike and ends at Memorial Park.

Pioneer Days Festival

Greenhills Village Commons- Winton and Farragut roads - Greenhills

July 2 : 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Games, food, and drink booths. Entertainment throughout the day.

Pioneer Days Parade

Winton Woods Middle School - 147 Farragut Road - Cincinnati

July 2 : 11 a.m.

Parade starts and ends at Winton Woods Middle School, and includes police, fire, and military vehicles, marching bands, floats, Shriners minicars and more. Winton Road at Andover and Sharon will be blocked to traffic briefly as parade passes.

Coney Island Balloon Glow

Coney Island - 6201 Kellogg Ave. - Cincinnati

July 3 : 8 p.m. Park opens at 10 a.m. Live music begins at 6:30 p.m. Balloon Glow begins at 8 p.m.

Music, entertainment and as many as 15 glowing air balloons. Rozzi' Famous Fireworks display at 10 p.m.

Belleview Baptist Church's Independence Day Parade and Patriotic Service

Belleview Baptist Church - 6658 fifth St. - Burlington

July 3 : 10:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Participants gather in parking lot 10-10:30 a.m. Boone County Honor Guard will lead parade to the Veteran's Memorial at Belleview Cemetery for service. Hot dogs, drinks and snacks served under church shelter at noon.

Koorsen’s Fourth of July Bash

Fountain Square - Fifth and Vine streets - Cincinnati

July 3 : 9:30 p.m.

Follows Toyota Movie Night featuring "Iron Man 2." Music by DJ. Free fireworks display at 10 p.m. Concessions available. Bring seating. All ages.

Fairfield Red, White and Kaboom

Village Green Park - Fairfield- 301 Wessel Drive - Fairfield

July 3 : 6:30 p.m.

Fairfield Idol finals. Music by Stagger Lee at 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. Rozzi’s fireworks show with soundtrack broadcast by ClassX Radio 88.9 FM 10 p.m. Music at Harbin Park by My Sister Sarah at 8 and 10:30 p.m.

Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration

July 3 : 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Lunch stand available and offering homemade cakes, pies, homemade ice cream, sandwiches, salads and drinks.

Features old-fashioned cakewalks, traditional woodworking, kid’s games, contests, activities and more. Music by National Trail Steel Drum Band 1 p.m., Glass Halo 2 p.m. and Eaton Community Band 3:30 p.m.

Florence Fourth of July Celebration

Florence Government Center - 8100 Ewing Blvd. - Florence

July 3 : 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Rides and games, demonstrations, food booths, kidzone and music. Car Cruise at 4 p.m. Patriotic Salute at 6 p.m. Music by Deron Bell and the D-Street Band at 7 p.m. Rozzi's Famous Fireworks start at 10 p.m.

Moscow Independence Day Celebration

Village of Moscow - Village of Moscow - Moscow

July 3 : 1 p.m.

Music by DJ at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks show at dark. Bring picnic, no food vendors available. Parade at 1 p.m., line-up at 12:30 p.m. at Rivervalley Community Center.

Independence Day Parade

Downtown Lebanon - Mulberry, Main and Broadways streets - Lebanon

July 3 : 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Broadway Street. Floats, antique cars, school bands and more. Free parking.

Harrison Fourth of July Celebration

Harrison Community Center - 300 George St. - Harrison

July 3 : 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Music, entertainment, children's games, balloon rides for $5 and fireworks at dusk.

Harrison Fourth of July Parade

Harrison Community Center - 300 George St. - Harrison

July 3 : 2 p.m.

Parade starts at center, travels down Broadway, turns on State Street, right on Harrison Avenue and back to Broadway. All ages.

Green Township Independence Day Concert and Fireworks

Kuliga Park - 6717 Bridgetown Road - Cincinnati

July 3 : 7 p.m. Music by Pete Wagner Band and Ooh La La & the Greasers at 7 p.m. Fireworks display at 10 p.m.

Concessions available. Shuttle bus services available starting at 5:30 p.m. No alcohol or pets.

City of St. Bernard Independence Day Festival

Ross Park - Corner of Ross and Tower Ave. - St. Bernard

July 3 : 4 p.m.

Music by DJ Bill Helton and After Midnight, games, rides, food and beverages. Bring blankets. No coolers or glass bottles. Rozzi's Famous Fireworks show at 10 p.m. Rain date: July 4.

Northside Fourth of July Parade

Northside - Hamilton Avenue - Cincinnati

July 4 : 12 p.m.

Starts at northern boundary of Northside and travels south on Hamilton Avenue to Hoffner Park, where celebration continues with Independence Day Festival. Benefits the Northside Business District Recycling Program.

All American Birthday Party & Fireworks

Sawyer Point - Pete Rose Way - Cincinnati

July 4 : 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Celebration of our community, our country’s birthday, and in recognition of our active and veteran military service men and women. Music, food, family activities and fireworks.

Hamilton’s 4th Of July Celebration

Butler County Courthouse - 101 High St. - Hamilton

July 4 : 10 a.m. Music by the Jack Carr Band 6 p.m. and the Wright Patterson Air Force Band of Flight's "Systems Go" 7:30 p.m.

Booths, food vendors and entertainment. Visit Butler County Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument, pioneer encampment re-enactment around Monument Cabin and more from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free parking in the McDulin Garage at Third and Market streets for July 2-4.

Red, White and Boom!

Riverbend Music Center - 6295 Kellogg Ave. - Cincinnati

July 4 : 8 p.m.

Cincinnati Pops Orchestra; John Morris Russel, conductor. Daniel Narducci, baritone; Karen Slack, soprano; Prism Brass from the Air Force Band of Flight and Cincinnati Studio for Dance cloggers.

Liberty Township Fourth of July Parade

Lakota East High School- 6840 Lakota Lane - Liberty Township

July 4 : 10 a.m.

Parade features floats, Lakota East High School Varsity Baseball Team, marching band, fire trucks and more. Route will go from school, down Wyandot Road to Yankee Road and ends at Liberty Park behind Lakota Family YMCA. Wyandot and Yankee roads will temporarily close between 10-11 a.m.

Liberty Township 5K Run for Liberty

Lakota East High School- 6840 Lakota Lane - Liberty Township

July 4 : 8 a.m.

Registration 7 a.m. 3.1 mile course starting in Lakota East High School stadium, heading north around the Freshman building, then back south to head around the Liberty Commons Shopping Center before heading back to stadium. 5K walk begins 8:31 a.m. Water available on course. Fruit and water available at finish line.

Montgomery July Fourth Festival

Montgomery Park - 10101 Montgomery Road - Indian Hill

July 4 : 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Children's games, prizes, pony rides, bounce house and food and beer booths. All-Star baseball game.

Anderson Township Independence Day Parade

Anderson Township Government Center- 7954 Beechmont Ave. - Cincinnati

July 4 : 11 a.m. Theme: "Hometown Pride."

More than 100 entries travel on Beechmont Avenue to Anderson Towne Center. Beechmont Avenue closes by 10:45 a.m.

Colerain Township Fourth of July Spectacular

Colerain Township Government Complex- 4200 Springdale Road - Groesbeck

July 4 : 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Free children's entertainment. Music by Naked Karate Girls at 6 p.m. Free shuttle service and parking.

Edgewood's Fourth of July Parade and Celebration

Presidents Park- 281 Dudley Road - Edgewood

July 4 : 9:30 a.m.

Parade route from K-Mart on Dixie Highway to Presidents Park. Red Idle concert at Freedom Park at 7 p.m. Fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Food and drink available.

Red, White and Blue-berry Pancake Breakfast

North Presbyterian Church- 4222 Hamilton Ave. - Northside

July 4 : 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Benefits Churches Active in Northside Choice Food Pantry.

All American Picnic

Beach Waterpark - 2590 Water Park Drive - Mason

July 4 : 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Makahiki Picnic Grove.

Anderson Township Celebrating America's Birthday

Anderson Towne Center - 7500 Beechmont Ave. - Cincinnati

July 4 : 12:30 p.m.

Food, activities for children and music by Robin Lacy and DeZydeco. Rescue pets available for adoption. Car show registration 10 a.m.-noon and $10 fee. Show noon-4 p.m. with 16 trophies awarded at 3 p.m. Rain or shine.

Ault Park Independence Day Celebration

Ault Park - 3600 Observatory Ave. - Mount Lookout

July 4 : 11 a.m. Morning program: children's bike, scooter, stroller and wagon parade and contest. Registration at 10:30 a.m.

Bike/scooter parade at noon for ages 12 and under. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. Helmets required, nominal fee to enter. Food and drink available at 6 p.m. Music by Blue Stone Ivory at 8 p.m. Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Benefits American Red Cross - Nashville Flood Relief.

Campbell County YMCA Firecracker 5K

Tower Park - 950 S. Fort Thomas Ave. - Ft. Thomas

July 4 : 8:15 a.m. Registration begins at 7 a.m.

Medals presented to top finishers in each age division, with trophies for top three male and female runners. Includes parade at 10:30 a.m.; starts at Highlands High School, continues on Fort Thomas Avenue and ends at Tower Park. Benefits Campbell County YMCA.

Fort Mitchell Fourth of July Parade

Diocesan Catholic Children's Home - 75 Orphanage Road - Fort Mitchell

July 4 : 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Parade starts at children's home on Orphanage Road and ends at Beechwood School. All ages.

Fourth of July Parade

Pierce Township Park - 961 Locust Corner Road - Pierce Township

July 4 : 10 a.m.

Parade route runs through Pierce Township along hike-bike path. Children invited to decorate bicycles.

Hamilton Fourth of July Parade

Butler County Fairgrounds- 1715 Fairgrove Ave. - Hamilton

July 4 : 10 a.m. Fireworks display along the Great Miami River at 10 p.m.

Theme: It's a Grand Old Flag. Line-up at Butler County Fairgrounds at 9 a.m. Parade starts at 10 a.m. and ends at Front and Ludlow streets in Downtown Hamilton. Patriotic ceremony with music, color and pageantry following parade at historic Butler County Court House.

Norwood's Hometown Fourth of July Celebration

Shea Stadium- 2603 Harris Ave. - Norwood

July 4 : 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. DJ Statmann of B105.1 FM radio will broadcast with special giveaways and games to play. Music by All Dance Sound.

Food, booths, giveaways, animal guests from Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, clowns, dragon bouncer and face painting. No smoking, alcohol or pets permitted. Fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Park Hills Fourth of July Festival

St. Joseph Heights - 1601 Dixie Highway - Park Hills

July 4 : 2 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Silent auction, bingo, raffles, magic show, face painting and SunRock Farm petting. Music by the Lee Roessler Band. Games for children and adults. Food, ice cream, ice balls, beer and soft drinks available. Benefits Notre Dame Urban Education Center.

Stricker's Grove 4th of July

Stricker's Grove- 11490 Hamilton Cleves Road - Ross Township

July 4 : 3 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Fireworks display at 10 p.m. Ride tickets available for purchase; ride-all-day armband, $14.

Greendale Fourth of July Celebration

Greendale Park- Nowlin Ave. - Greendale

July 4 : 9 a.m.

5K Run/Walk begins 9 a.m., registration at 7:30 a.m. Fishing derby 9 a.m. Bike parade begins 3 p.m. Entertainment at Greendale Cabin 5-9:30 p.m. Fireworks at dusk.

 

This blog is part of our ongoing series titled "365 Things To Do In Northern Kentucky".  If you know of some cool places you'd like to see us highlight, drop us a line and tell us to check it out.

CHURCH FESTIVALS

It's that time of year again...warm weather, ice cream, carnivals, good food and wonderful entertainment.  Church festival time.  It's the perfect spot to take the family, go out on a date, or catch up with friends.  There's a little something for everyone.  Most festivals include rides, games, food and a raffle.

 

Festivals taking place the weekend of June 17,18 & 19th include the St. Joseph Academy Pigfest, St. Augustine Church and St. Henry Church.  St. Joseph Academy Pigfest includes plenty of pulled pork and chicken dinners courtesy of Brooks Meats.  On Friday the 17th, the Troy Brooks Band will play country selections and on Saturday the 18th, the Code Nine Bank will crank it up with various classic rock songs.  Elk Creek Winery will have a booth along with Snappy Tomato Pizza. John Deere Tractor will feature a tractor display.  There will also be a country store that features various items to bid on.  Pigfest is located at St. Joesph Academy in Walton, Kentucky on the school grounds on 48 Needmore St.  Hours are 5-11 pm on June 17 and 4pm - midnight on June 18.  The public is invited and parking is available at Walton Verona High School and across the street at Krogers.  Shuttles will be carrying people to the festival since parking space is limited.  St. Henry Church in Elsmere, Kentucky has their summer festival from June 17-19 and it includes an assortment of rides, games and food.  There is also a gambling booth, a silent auction, raffle and a food area that features local restaurants.  Admission is free but you must pay for rides and games.  The festival runs from 6-11pm on Friday the 17th, 5-11pm on Saturday the 18th and from 4-10pm on Sunday the 19th.  St. Henry is located at 3813 Dixie Hwy. The St. Augustine Festival is located in Covington, Kentucky and includes a raffle, booths, games, a kiddie-land, a silent auction, food, snacks and more.  The festival will run Friday June 17th from 5 - 11pm and Friday night is a Fish Fry from 5-8pm.  Saturday the 18th the festival runs from 5-11pm with a spaghetti and meatball dinner from 5-8pm.  St. Augustine is located at 1839 Euclid Ave. 

The following is a list of Northern Kentucky Festivals and their dates in the area:

This church festival community features article is part of our new ongoing series entitled "365 Things to Do in Northern Kentucky" by The Mike Parker Team of HUFF Realty. 

Unfortunately, in today's slowly recovering economy, many homeowners continue to find themselves in financial trouble. As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I have worked with many clients over the past few years to help resolve their financial dilemma in the best way possible. There are many options available to distressed homeowners -- unfortunately, most people are not aware of what these options are.

To help clarify confusion and shed light on optimal homeowner options, real estate finance expert Marian Anthony, answers five questions distressed homeowners often have:

1. Should I intentionally default on my home mortgage?
You’ve probably heard of people "intentionally" or "strategically" defaulting on their mortgage, willing to take the hit to their credit in favor of freeing up cash flow in the short-term. Rather than defaulting, however, homeowners should talk with their real estate professional about the potential for a short sale. A short sale could lead toward the debt showing as "settled" on your credit. Walking away and allowing the bank to foreclose still allows the second lender to render a judgment -- and possibly garnish your wages. You may also have to file for bankruptcy to recover from the credit nightmare.

2. As a borrower, what are some ways I can gain leverage with my lender?
One way to gain leverage with a lender is to establish a "substitute mortgage" -- a security pledge that is offered to the seller's lender with a third party for a lesser amount of the current payment. Over time, this will result in a significant amount of collected funds that can be used as negotiating leverage to release the borrower from the debt, or dictate terms for a favorable loan modification.

3. Why have loan modifications and foreclosures become the predominant answer for so many in distressed property situations?
The reason why loan modifications and foreclosures have become the answer for so many is because many real estate professionals erroneously consider the short sale process to be too complex. It is essential to work with a real estate professional who is equipped with the right forms and contact information, and who knows how to orchestrate a short sale transaction.

4. Why is a short sale strategy more advantageous than a foreclosure?
The reduced payoff in a short sale can release you from the debt obligation. This often allows you to re-establish your credit faster and re-enter the market much wiser. A foreclosure can ruin a homeowner's credit and take much longer to recover from.

5. I’ve heard borrowers in default need a 'General Public Disclosure?' Why?
Many people are not aware of the alternatives available to them when facing foreclosure. Knowing your options, as detailed on a General Public Disclosure document, can make all the difference in establishing a deal that's in the homeowners' best interest.

Remember that every distressed homeowner's situation is unique; therefore, it is essential to contact a real estate professional -- and often an attorney -- to determine the best possible solution for you. I am happy to assist, so please feel free to contact me, and please pass this important information on to others in need.

According to a recent survey from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the market share of vacation- and investment-home sales held steady in 2010. Although sales volume declined with the overall market, vacation-home sales accounted for 10% of transactions last year while the portion of investment sales was 17%, both unchanged from 2009.

As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I am committed to keeping my community informed on market statistics that will affect their real estate investment decisions. NAR's "2011 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey" -- covering existing- and new-home transactions in 2010 -- revealed that foreclosure or trustee sales accounted for 17% of investment purchases and 11% of vacation-home sales in 2010, compared with 5% of primary purchases. In other words, second-home buyers purchased more distressed homes at discount than did buyers of primary residences.

Also worth noting, all-cash purchases have become prevalent in the second-home market in recent years; 59% of investment buyers paid cash in 2010, as did 36% of vacation-home buyers.

These statistics clearly indicate that there are buyers out there taking advantage of today's market opportunities to buy second homes, either as once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunities or to make a long-desired lifestyle change. According to the survey, the median vacation-home price was $150,000 in 2010, down 11.2% from $169,000 in 2009, while the median investment-home price was $94,000, which is 10.5% below the $105,000 median in 2009.

As NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun explains, "The fall in home prices has opened opportunities for more families to enter the second-home market. Even if purchases are delayed due to economic circumstances, the underlying long-term demand -- the desire for purchasing second homes -- remains because people in their 30s and 40s will reach the prime age for buying and will drive the second-home market in coming decades as conditions permit."

The NAR survey reveals that lifestyle factors continue to be the primary motivation for vacation-home buyers while the desire for rental income drives investment purchases. Vacation homes were more likely to be located in a rural area while investment homes were more likely to be in a suburban location.

Whether looking to buy or sell a vacation home or investment property, today's market may be the optimal time to do so. If you'd like a closer look at second-home opportunities in our area, please contact me. Be sure to forward these informative statistics to others who may be interested as well.

There may have never been a better time to buy a home than right now. Earlier this month, interest rates dropped again -- the average contract interest rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.79% from 4.93%, according to loanrateupdate.com -- and there is still plenty of inventory, keeping home prices relatively low in our area.

Those positive factors, however, are often offset by tighter lending standards, causing many to shy away from applying for a mortgage. As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, however, I have learned that it really boils down to four main factors that will impact a lender's decision:

• Your ability to make a downpayment - usually between 3% and 20% of the purchase price -- of course, the larger the downpayment, the better your odds of securing the mortgage.
• Two years of steady employment - at the same job or in the same field.
• Good (but not necessarily perfect) credit score - these days, around 660 may do it.
• Monthly income between two and three times the estimated monthly mortgage payment.

I have had many clients, however, who have qualified for a mortgage without completely meeting the above criteria ... so don't rule yourself out too soon. There are several other steps you can take to secure a mortgage, such as these ideas from BusinessWeek:

• Meet with a lender anyway. You may find out that you qualify after all, and if not, the lender can tell you exactly which areas to focus on in order to qualify in the near future.
• Ask your real estate agent if they work with a particular lender or mortgage broker. An experienced agent works with many lenders and may even offer in-house mortgage services.
• Get a co-signer. This isn't easy, because if you default on a loan, the co-signer will be responsible for paying it. But if you know someone with good credit who has great faith in your ability to pay, a co-signer could be a workable option.
• Plan for the future. If it turns out you cannot qualify for a home loan right now, have your real estate agent help you map out a plan for improving your credit qualifications over the coming months. If you make homeownership a serious goal, you should be able to qualify in the not-too-distant future.

For more information about applying for a mortgage, please feel free to contact me. And be sure to share this email with family and friends who might also be considering a home purchase -- this market is just too good to miss out on!

In the do-it-yourself age we live in, many homeowners are ready and willing to take on home-improvement projects themselves. But while you may be ready and willing, the real question is, are you really "able?"

I have access to many great home-improvement resources thanks to being part of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®. The following advice comes from HGTV's Carter Oosterhouse. Heed these suggestions before you embark on your next project:

1. Focus on projects that will pay you back. For example, if you're dealing with hot or cold weather, try to lower heating and cooling bills by properly sealing your home. Look for drafts around windows, doors, and vents,and then use caulk or weather stripping to seal them. It may not be glamorous, but it will pay you back down the road.
2. Know where to start. If you have never taken on a major project, start with spaces such as the living room, spare bedroom, or the garage -- rooms that won't limit your ability to function, says Oosterhouse.
3. Closet reorganization. Many times, people have maxed out their closet and have no more room to add, let alone organize. That's when it’s time to evaluate. Donate clothes you no longer wear to a charity, store seasonal attire in a separate location, and separate his from hers.
4. Break down a big project. Planning is essential. As Oosterhouse says, if you think you can just start up any big job without a plan, then you are in for a world of frustration. Know your capabilities and limitations.
5. Know where the biggest ROI is. The improvements that will most add to the value of your home include, the kitchen, the master bedroom and bathroom. These can boost your resale value and attract buyers who want a space that’s move-in ready.

These are just some of many great suggestions for tackling home improvement projects. Feel free to contact me for more ideas and please forward this email on to your fellow DIY-ers!