Ted Wight's St. Louis Style

Arty Party @ The Four Seasons Tonight! Featuring Artist Jeff Kapfer

Check out Jeff's website:  www.jeffkapfer.com

Landmark's Association to Tour Two Bernoudy Homes- Sat. Feb 25th 1 PM

Make your reservation and mark your calendar for the Landmark's Association tour of two very special Bernoudy homes in Ladue: the imperiled Schweiss home and Bernoudy's own home. These are two wonderful examples of some of his smaller homes.

Click below for more information:

http://www.landmarks-stl.org/events/tour_of_two_william_bernoudy_designed_homes/

5921 De Giverville, DeBaliviere Area- FOR SALE

The best buy in the city’s West End! Fabulous home with a floor plan that boasts many extras. Close to everything- Forest Park, U City Loop, Washington University, the coming U City Trolley and a couple short blocks from Metrolink.  Only a brief walk to the shops and restaurants in the eclectic Delmar Loop. This spacious home has been completely renovated.  The large kitchen features new, custom cabinets, tile backsplash and granite countertops.  The dining room has new bamboo flooring.  New windows, flooring, baths and systems throughout are just a few of the upgrades in this unbelievable buy.  The second floor has 3 bedrooms; one of the bedrooms is a master suite with sitting room, walk-in closet and it’s own full bath.  When you make your way upstairs to the 3rd floor you will find a  second master suite with a 4th bedroom and full bath with another room that can be used as a sitting/study area or recreation room. New fencing, landscaping and off street parking in back. $219,000

Open Sunday, February 5th 12-2 PM

 http://5921degiverville.epropertysites.com/

 Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty, 314-607-5555, tedwight@aol.com

3015 Regis, Frontenac FOR SALE

The perfect Ladue School ranch home located in lovely Frontenac. The expansive home is on almost an acre level lot that features a 10 year old Baker 20 x 40’ pool complete with Sun Deck, fountains, heater & completely enclosed with a fence away from the home. The large kitchen has a breakfast room with a bay window, terrazzo floors, tons of cabinets, a butler’s pantry, center island, gas cooktop & much more. Family room with a gas fireplace and wood floors opens from the kitchen. Living room with gas fireplace & separate Dining Room. 3 bedrooms on the main level with a possible 4^th that is currently used as an office. Master bedroom with gas fireplace, vaulted ceiling, walk-in closets, luxury bathroom & French doors that lead to a private patio. The main level features 4 full baths, a laundry & a newer 3 seasons room with a vaulted, beamed ceiling & terrazzo floor.  Finished lower level recreation room with ceramic floor, full bath & bedroom. Oversized 4-car garage. In-ground sprinkler system. $699,000

Open Tues., February 7th 11-1 PM and Sun., Feb. 12th 1- 3 PM

http://3015regis.epropertysites.com/

Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty, 314-607-5555, tedwight@aol.com

What a Time to Buy!

In an effort to share valuable customer facing information, please see the brief article below: Seems to me this could be a powerful piece of information to share with clients who may be on the fence.As a matter of fact, another Bear economist turned bull this last week! Chris Thornburg, a former UCLA economist and founding principle of The Bacon Group was quoted saying:

"...a great time to buy a home... buy now."

                                            When the Prophet Says Buy - BUY!

John R. Talbott, previously a Goldman Sachs investment banker, is a bestselling author and economic consultant. When it comes to the housing market he is also a prophet. When housing prices started to skyrocket in 2003, he published The Coming Crash in the Housing Market correctly warning us that a real estate bubble was forming. Then in January 2006, he called the absolute peak of home prices in the US by releasing a new book, Sell Now! The End of the Housing Bubble.

Mr. Talbott, the person who accurately predicted the housing bubble and its bust, now has a new prediction - IT IS THE TIME TO BUY A HOME! In a recent article, Homes - Buy Now!, Talbott simply explains:

"I have been waiting for more than five years to offer this advice. It is now time in most cities across the country to buy a new home or refinance your existing home with thirty-year fixed rate mortgage debt."


He goes on to explain that his conclusion is based on four different metrics, all of which favor buying today:

Home Prices Relative to Peak Prices During the Bubble
Home Prices Relative to Construction Costs or Replacement Costs
Home Prices Relative to Incomes and Rents
Home Prices in Real Terms, Not US Dollar Terms
Bottom Line

If the person who called the real estate bubble and its bust says now is the time to buy, we believe it is time to buy.

 

Article passed to me by:

Michael MacDonald has forwarded this email to you with the following message: Great article to motivate any buyers that are "on the fence." Happy to help in EVERY way possible ! - Mike First Option Mortgage Off: 314-400-9815 Cell: 314-249-8149   

Puerto Vallarta

I just got back from a lovely week in Puerto Vallarta. We stayed up in Conchas Chinas at the Casa Tres Vidas. This is a villa that can accommodate groups (our group was 10) on separate levels. The villa includes your own staff that prepare exceptional meals. You just pay the grocery bill each day. Very enchanting and a nice change from hotels and large resorts. You may also want to try the adjoining sister property Quinta Maria Cortez....older...elegant...just breakfast is available & included.

And some random pics from the trip!

My Aunt Bunny Featured in the St. Louis Post Dispatch

Check out this article in this weekend's St. Louis Post Dispatch:  CLICK HERE

Photo by Stephanie S. Cordle, scordle@post-dispatch.com

 

Photography

I love this picture of a bougainvillea in bloom behind a frosted window....in my bathroom this week in Puerto Vallarta.

Sunday, January 29th Open House: 8 Graybridge, Ladue 1-3 PM

8 Graybridge Lane, Ladue  A bargain at $799,000 1:00- 3:00 PM

http://8graybridgelane.canbyours.com/

The Crescent- 155 Carondelet Plaza, #310, Clayton, MO FOR SALE

With its Southern exposure, 2800+ sq. ft. of indoor living space and 1100 sq. ft. of terrace, experience the best that The Crescent has to offer. This 2 bed & 2.5 bath residence has been tastefully designed for the discriminating buyer. The open floor plan is warm and inviting: accented with rich Brazilian cherry floors, crown moldings, gas fireplace, built-in bookshelves, and a lovely study. The formal dining room flows nicely into the living space. The center island kitchen features a 6-burner cook-top, double ovens, built-in micro and plenty of custom maple cabinets and granite counters for the entertainer. The master suite features 2 walk-in closets by New Space, a bonus room wired for use as a office, and the en-suite bath has a jet tub, double sinks, walk-in shower, heated floor and stone counters. The guest bedroom has a walk-in closet and a private bath. Life at The Crescent includes: 24 hr doorman, valet, onsite management, gym, .5 acre garden terrace, party room and a dog park.  $1,065,000

http://155carondelet.canbyours.com/ 

Open Sun., January 29th from 1 to 3 PM; Tues., Jan  31st 11-1 PM

Listed by Ted Wight and Stephanie Oliver, Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty, 314-725-0009

Photography

An image of a restaurant in Puerto Vallarta....using the Hipstomatic app.

From the plane

Vintage Picture of 507 Mapleview- University City

A friend sent me this vintage picture of this International-styled house I had listed a while back located at 507 Mapleview in University City.  It was built by Robert Hinkson in 1937.  Sometime in the late 80's or early 90's a second story was added.

Now

Have You Ever Dreamt About Owning a Historic Country Home?

On the East and West Coasts there is a culture of buying cute, historic homes in small country towns as a weekend retreat. This idea is not as prevalent in the Mid-West. Though take a moment and imagine owning a historic home in a charming river town. Decorating it with your antiques! Having an art studio in the home! Walking to the Mississippi River to take a walk! Dining at a local restaurant that specializes in local produce and meats! Attending a local festival! Going to services in a country church! Having house guests up for the weekend! Antiquing! Water sports on the river!

You can do it....all up in Pike County. Clarksville and Louisiana, Missouri have inexpensive historic homes that are for sale from $50,000- $400,000. All only within 1.5 hours of St. Louis.

Check out Pike County Living Blog to see what you are missing!

Vintage Cell Phone Ad

My first job out of college was working for Southwestern Bell Mobile Systems....what is now AT&T.  I worked there for about 12 years...mostly managing the Business Sales force...though also I worked in marketing and ran their local retail stores. This was back in the late 80's and 90's. In those days we were just competing against CyberTel. Phones cost $1000, were installed in your car or came in a large bag.....rates were $.35- $50/min. Remember the status of having an attenna on your car? We would have never thought back then that everyone...old and young would have a phone in their pocket.

This CyberTel ad boasts: alphanumeric memory, 3-watt capability and dual NAM capability....this enabled you to have a St. Louis and something like a Chicago number in the same phone so you would not "roam".

Sunday, January 22nd Open House: 541 North and South, Stunning U City Townhome

541 North and South, University City  New Price! $549,000  1-3 PM

http://541northandsouth.canbyours.com/

Hamburger Mary's Opens- Olive- Mid-town Alley Area

The fun restaurant chain, Hamburger Mary's, has opened in the Mid-town area by some local investors. I went to dinner there last night and had a very good burger! The atmosphere is fun and playful. The grand opening is Saturday night with Kim Massie performing. Check out there event schedule for things like: drag bingo!

3037 Olive Street
St Louis, MO 63103

http://hamburgermarys.com/stlouis/

Coming Soon!

The Spring market is in full swing already.....I have not slowed down at all during the Holidays or in January!  Listings are going under contract, Buyers are buying...things are moving!  The feeling is very strong in the market that this will be a great year. Inventories of houses and investment properties available to sell are low. Now is a great time to start talking to a Realtor...like me....to discuss selling your home, condo or investment property.

Here is a selection of properties that I have coming on the market:

• Fabulous condo in The Crescent of Clayton that is on a  coveted floor with stunning finishes and a large terrace. This one will go quickly! $997,500
• University City home on a sought-after street. Gut rehab with a Wow kitchen! This will probably go under contract before it hits the market. $309,000
• Olivette ranch (Ladue Schools) with 4 bedrooms and a finished basement....priced to sell! $375,000
• DeBaliviere home with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths ....completely redone $219,000

There are several other lovely properties that I may be landing, though I will jink the deals if I mention them now!

I also have Buyers for Clayton, Ladue, University City, CWE that are chomping at the bit to see something not on the market.

My contact information is 314-607-5555 or tedwight@aol.com

Gateway Gallery- Clayton Grand Opening Friday Night!

 

Grand Opening Reception  Friday, January 20, 2012  6 -9
Welcome to our new home. We've settled into our new gallery space and worked through the inevitable moving pains - now it's time to celebrate!  Please join us on Friday, January 20, 6 till 9 PM, for our Grand Opening reception.  You'l find fine art, fine wine, fine food and fine fellowship and live music, too, among the guests and artists of the Gateway Gallery family. Share the happy occasion of our new home at 21 North Bemiston, in Clayton, with us for a little while and take advantage of this opportunity to talk with the artists who have created the art you'll see around you.  We would love to tell you the stories of the work we create.   Gateway Gallery 21 North Bemiston Clayton, Missouri 63105 


Fozzie's

I just had the Italian Beef sandwich at Fozzie's. The best sandwich ever!

1170 s Big Bend

Check Out My List of Other Interesting Websites

Blog fans please take a moment to explore other interesting websites that I have listed on the left margin of this blog under the title:  Interesting Websites and Stylish Resources.  I just added a new one that I lost touch with....it used to be called UrbanSTL and it changed to NextSTL.  Interesting forums and articles.

If you have a favorite website I should included, let me know.  My preference is for St. Louis- oriented sites.

Sunday, January 15th Open Houses

Pop by one of these lovely properties on Sunday, January 15!

8 Graybridge Lane, Ladue  A bargain at $799,000 1:30- 3:30 PM

http://8graybridgelane.canbyours.com/

541 North and South, University City  New Price! $549,000  1-3 PM

http://541northandsouth.canbyours.com/

Schweiss Bernoudy Home in the Snow- 4 Daniel Rd, Ladue, MO

My blog does have readers!  I have been getting a nice response from Bernoudy/ architecture/ MCM enthusiast who want to make sure that this treasure is not lost. Everyone is just in love with the small home. There is real danger of the property being purchased just for the valuable Ladue lot. See my previous post HERE. There are some serious parties, though there is no resting until "they put their money where their mouth is!"

The Magic Pan- Vintage Plaza Frontenac

Do you remember when Plaza Frontenac first opened and The Magic Pan. It was the place to go!  I remember taking dates there for dances in high-school. The Chicken Crepe was the thing to get. I found the recipe in an old book- Gateway Gourmet. I think I will try to make these soon!

Sponge Lamps

These light fixtures remind me of my brother who works at Corning in New York state.  He works on a product called- Celcor.  It is used in filtration components.....made out of ceramic.

To find out more about these lights click HERE.

727 Leland, University City Loop 3-family FOR SALE

Great 3-family in the Loop with the Trolley on the way!!! The Delmar Loop has been named as one of the 10 best streets in America. 1st floor unit has been elegantly renovated. It features a gourmet kitchen w/granite counters, custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, designer tile backsplash & Travertine floor. 1st floor bathroom also renovated w/granite-topped wash basin. Second & third floor units have a LR and DR, 2 large bedrooms & a bonus room that some occupants use as a 3rd bedroom. Each unit has a private balcony off the back. Located on the Wash U shuttle route & very close to Washington University's Lewis Art School. Central AC & forced-air Heat. Laundry facilities on site. Secure building with buzzer entry.  $365,000

 Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty, 314-607-5555   tedwight@aol.com

 

Maryland Ave, Clayton, MO Mid-century (MCM)

This building is next to my office on Maryland Ave.  I have always appreciated its design!

 

Ham Sammies

If you want a crowd pleaser for your next party, make these! Nothing is better than a hot, cheesy sandwich!

http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/main-courses/oven-ham-sammies/

Sen Thai Bistro- Downtown- Locust Street

I had dinner this week at Sen Thai Bistro. It has been around for 9 years and I have not been in years. I think it has some of the best Thai food in the city. The server was attentive and eager to make sure that we selected the best that the restaurant could offer. Much of what she recommended was fried....though delicious!  Try it!

 

1821 Topping Rd, Town and County, SOLD/CLOSED

Yesterday my clients closed on a purchase of a lovely home in Town and County located on 3 acres. The property actually has a horse barn on it and a riding ring....though they have not been used in a while and Town and Country now requires 5 acres to have a horse. What a lovely setting!

Million Dollar Plus Home Sales in St. Louis 2011

The high-end market is continuing to improve in the St. Louis area. Over 138 homes/condos in the area sold for more than $1 million.  2010 was 128 properties and 2009 was 119 properties. Below are some significant sales.

11 Carrswold, Clayton, MO  $2,300,000

35 Squires Lane, Huntleigh  $4,000,000  Sold by the Orthwein Estate and bought by a "relative"

9855 Litzsinger, Ladue  $3,125,000  Bought by a sibling of the purchaser above....there must have been 20 work trucks there the other day when I drove by...no picture...though you know it....the white frame home at the entrance of Logan Cabin Lane....it rambles on for ages

View Larger Map

8 Radnor, Huntleigh  $2,550,000

18061 Wild Horse Creek Road, $2,625,000

13302 Buckland Hall, Town and Country, $2,100,000  Sold by a famous football player, announcer, restaurant owner

The Schweiss Bernoudy Home- 4 Daniel Road is Quietly For Sale

The lovely Schweiss Home designed by William A Bernoudy is available to purchase. This is a rare opportunity to buy a gem of a home located on a quiet Ladue lane- Daniel Rd.  The lot is large and private....which is a problem....the lot is too valuable. This house is in real danger of being torn down by someone who just wants the lot. The price is somewhere around $410,000 which is also a good price point to buy a lot in Ladue. Someone needs to step up and buy this treasure before it is lost. The current owners would hate to have the house torn down, though economics become a reality. This home is small  and would be ideal for a single person or close couple. It would also be a great St. Louis pad for a person or couple who travels a lot. The concrete flooring has a diamond motif that you can find at the Frank Lloyd Wright house at Ebsworth Park in Kirkwood. New HVAC, electric, plumbing....and more, though still needs some finishing work.

Find out more about the Schweiss and see more pics HERE

For more information, contact Ted Wight 314-607-5555   tedwight@aol.com  (Please note that I do not have this home listed and can just connect you with other parties. It is not listed or in the MLS at this time.)

Any PR is Good PR

I am excited that one of my listings up in Louisiana, MO in Pike County got picked up by a popular, national blog- Lovelylistings.  This blog features unique properties throughout the world. Often they are just poorly decorated properties...though mine was chosen since it is so different. It is an old city water processing plant located right on the Mississippi.

http://lovelylisting.icanhascheezburger.com/2011/12/27/funny-real-estate-my-what-a-lovely-pit-you-have/

http://waterstreet.canbyours.com/

Austin Texas Has it Going On!

Austin Texas has a strong collection of contemporary architecture. Check out my previous post about this dynamic city HERE.  Look at this boat dock on Lake Austin. See more HERE.

Retro Bathroom

Look at the beautiful metal legs in this sink!

Lovely home in U City on Maryland Ave. The poor house has the worst hump in the front entrance floor.

2011 Milestones and 2012 Goals

2011 was a good year....in fact, my best year ever!

Here is a brief recap of some of my achievements and milestones:

• Real Estate sales of $8,036,400 which was an increase of 14% over last year. I had 24 transactions which was 60% above last year. My real estate business is moving in the right direction!
• Created my first property videos
• Created property specific websites with QR codes, texting for mobile property info, videos and enhanced functionality
  
• Launched www.pikecountyliving.com blog as a spin-off of this blog
• Started to list and sell property in the Pike County area
• Hosted a tour of Pike County in May for the St. Louis Landmark Association
• Helped the Ladue News host their first Decorator's Showcase at my listing- 15 Washington Terrace
• Sold my first Bernoudy home- 3 Sumac Lane, Ladue
• Started leasing some homes and condos....an unfortunate part of this changing real estate market
• Created a Facebook page for my real estate business
• Profiled in Town and Style Magazine in their June 1st issue and listed as one of the Top Agents (#3 out of 10) in their December 7th issue
• Placed a property story on one of my historic Louisiana, MO listings in HG TV's new magazine...check out the Feb issue!
• Improved regular reports that are sent to my listings updating them on web traffic, showings, etc.
• Achieved the #4 agent spot on the St. Louis site for Blockshopper
  

I can't wait for 2012!
Here are some of my goals for this year:

• Increase my sales to over $10 million
• Further create awareness of the Pike County area
• Host another Pike County ramble for the Landmark Association...this time up to Louisiana, MO
• Improve my property videos to be even better
• Form a Bernoudy Society to host an annual gathering at a Bernoudy home for Bernoudy owners and enthusiast
• Get more publicity for my listings in local and national media
  
• Create logos for www.stlouisstyleblog.com and www.pikecountyliving.com
• Hire an assistant/Buyer's agent

 

Jello Shots

Last night I attended a fun gathering. I saw the most exciting thing.... Designer jello shots!

A Picnic @ Our Farm in the 60's

Here is another wonderful family photo that was recently rediscovered. It is my grandfather, aunt and late uncle having a picnic in the woods at our farm in Pike County. I love that my grandfather is in a jacket and tie.  Do you remember the days of the thermos?

3217 Longfellow, Compton Heights...The Video

791 Bismark, Glendale MO "The Famous Tree House Home"

Check out my latest video! You will love this home! So cool!

My Grandmother in Nantucket

My brother found some photos on my late father's computer that he shared with us this Christmas. This one is of my paternal grandmother on Nantucket sometime in the 60's. So stylish! She died shortly after I was born. Notice the large Nantucket basket next to her.