Cyndi Sloop's Community Scoop

What Does A Property Management Company Do For My Association?

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:49:07 -0800

The Sentry Office in Indianapolis welcomes our new District Manger, Todd Whitlock. Todd has been with Sentry Management, Inc for 6+ years and comes to us from the Clermont, Florida office. Please join me in welcoming Todd to Indianapolis.

I am reprinting information from a letter that Todd Whitlock has written (with his permission) that provides some further explanation as to what a property management company does for homeowner associations.

Often I am asked, "What does a property management company do for my association?" and "Why do we need a property management company?"

Strangely enough, let me start by stating what Sentry Management, Inc does not do. Sentry does not "run the show." Your homeowners association is a corporation, a business entity. The Board of Directors as per its governing documents and state law manages the affairs of the business. The Board hires vendors and signs contract, approves the budget, approves collections and covenant enforcement systems, prioritizes projects and all the 'day to day' decisions needed regarding the operation of the association. What Sentry Management, Inc. doesdo is provide the Board with full service administrative and accounting support and guidance and advice based on our 30+ years of managing community associations.

Sentry's local Indianapolis office has a large support staff based out of our Longwood corporate office. We have an Accounts Receivable department that maintains bank accounts, posts payments and late charges, and prepares regular and late payment coupons. We have an Accounts Payable department that processes invoices, prepares and submits payment, and tracks vendor insurance. We have a General Ledger department that prepares the best and most comprehensive monthly financial report in the business. We have a Collections department that monitors and tracks all facets of the process. We have a Closings department that coordinates sales, prepares sales certificates as requested by the Title Company, and updates association ownership records. We have a Client Services department that prepares, collates and mails all association correspondence, including meeting notices, and tracks other 'miscellaneous" items including CPA engagement, tax preparation, and required state reports. Finally, Sentry provides a 24 hour emergency answering service and maintains all association records. All of these services are included in the monthly management fee. What is not included is normal business costs such as supplies, copies, long distance phone call charges, etc. . . that any business incurs as well as the administrative costs for closing and collection services.

All of the above is done "behind the scenes." Usually, the only person seen and thought of by the members is the property manager. Your property manager provides periodic inspections of the property, assists in enforcement of covenants and rules and regulations,monitors vendor compliance, assists in tracking insurance and other contracts, obtains informational packets for meetings, attends meetings and often prepares minutes, directs support services, and provides support to the Board. In general, the property manager performs any task the Board wishes as long as it is reasonable and/or legal.

If you have any further questions or would like to know more about the services Sentry Mangement, Inc. can provide for your homeowners association, please feel free to email csloop@sentrymgt.com.

Six Responsibilities of Community Assocation Board Members

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 08:56:50 -0800

Being a Board Member on behalf of your association comes with responsibilities. Below is a list of what is expected.

All members of the Board serve the owners as Fiduciaries and must act in the best interest of all its members.
No officer of the corporation has the authority to make unilateral decisions on behalf of the Board unless specific authority to do so has been given by the Board.
Decisions are made at Board of Director meetings where items are addressed and agreed upon. Items on the Board of Directors meeting Agenda are thoroughly researched, studied and analyzed to make sure its financial feasibility, legal implications, and practical in application to the operation of the community
The Board of Directors sets the policy for the corporation and Management implements that policy.
All Board Members should make sure that there is Directors and Officers liability insurance in place.
All directors must keep careful watch over the finances of the association and make sure that the association rules and deed restrictions are enforced.

I am always in awe of the time and dedication Members of the Board give to their communities. Most Boards work very hard to uphold the Covenant and Restrictions while making improvements to the common areas and keeping their neighborhood informed of the happenings around them. Kudos to the dedication of HOA Board Members.

Wishing Everyone A Happy Holiday!

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:12:16 -0800

It's Christmas Eve and many of us are finishing up our day at work, maybe running around for some last minute items or traveling somewhere to be with family and friends. Whether your celebrating Christmas, Hanuka or maybe you don't celebrate, I still want to wish the Active Rain Community a Very Happy Holiday!

Be careful in your travels and enjoy your time!

Wondering What A Community Association Manager Is/Does?

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 12:21:42 -0800

Often when I tell people I'm a Community Association Manager I need to explain to them what I do. The short version could best describe me as the person that manages the common property and services of planned communities and/or condominiums through their homeowners' associations.

At my office, most of the community managers have eight to twelve properties that they are responsible for and oversee. I currently have 8 properties that I manage and I co-manage two more with another person. Our typical day starts about 8:00a.m. and each of us can construct our day to the needs of our communities and job responsibilities.

When we are in the office, most of us are answering emails, taking and returning phone calls, negotiating with contractors, paying association bills, monitoring finances, writing letters, relaying information, organizing paper work for upcoming meetings or completing paperwork from a meeting the night before. As well as maintaining the association files.

When we are out of the office we are often out at one of our properties for an inspection of the community. A community inspection can involve a variety of things. Some of the items we check are what's called the common areas of the property. An example for this time of the year would be to go out and make sure the entrance signs and entrance way are ok, street lights are working, to check the landscaping making sure there's no broken limbs, dead trees or damage to the property. If there's ponds/lakes we check them, we also check any playground and park equipment. If there's been a snow, we check to make sure the snow was plowed and removed properly by the contractor for that community. When the weather is warmer, we are often checking on the landscape, coordinating maintenance work, checking on pools and clubhouses and working with homeowners, the board and the architechtural committee on various homeowner improvements. The other important part of our commnunity inspections are to make sure no one is in violation of the covenants for that community. Each community has there own set of covenants and restrictions that we monitor and help to enforce.

This job also requires the community manager to attend each community's board meeting. Some of the communities are monthly and others are bi-monthly meetings. Most of these meetings are in the evenings. There are days when I do not return home until after 9:00p.m.

What I like best about my position is the diversity the job provides and that I get to meet and help some wonderful people along the way. Well, I hope that helps to answer the question "what is a community association manager?"

Will Your HOA Pool Drain Meet the New Drain Safety Regulation?

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:25:39 -0800

Here in Indiana, one of the last things on anyone's mind is a swim in the HOA pool. But on December 19, 2008, the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act will require all public and semi-public pools and spas to have anti-drowning drain covers installed on their drains. (This new law does not require private pool and spa owners to comply.)

This law came into being after the drowning of 7-year-old Virginia Graeme Baker, granddaughter of former Secretary of State James Baker, when she got caught in a hot tub drain in 2002.

As it stands now, those who do not comply will be forced to close or face civil and criminal penalties. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, it will effect hundreds of thousands of pools nationwide.

If your HOA has an outdoor pool, you will need to install the Federally Approved Drain Cover before opening your pool for the 2009 swim season. For more information about this new law, you may want to contact your Community Manager or Pool Service Company. Be safe and be ready for the 2009 season.

HOAs and Assessments

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:08:13 -0800

In today's economy almost everyone is feeling the money pinch and this includes most Homeowner Associations. Now more than ever it is important to have a written collections procedure in place. It's a good idea to have these procedures in place whether you are self-managed or have a management company.

Here's some of the items your Board may want to establish as a written procedure:

1. Due Date (s) - Be consistent with your Delcaration and/or By-Laws

2. Provide a "grace period" and explain the late fees or interest that will be charged after the grace period.

3. Specify the order of applying monies received as payment.

4. Specify how past due notices will be sent.

5. Specify the procedure for referring to the Association Attorney for collection.

As you know, any written procedures must be a part of your HOA Declarations of Covenants and/or By-laws to be enforcable. So, before your association takes any action to address assessments and written procedure, be sure to contact legal counsel and/or your community association manager. Being on the Board of Directors is a wonderful way to be involved with your community. Thank you for your commitment.

Indianapolis Named As A "TOP" Affordable Place to Live by Forbes

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 09:51:50 -0700

In a recent article written by Matt Woosley, Indianapolis was named as the number one city with an affordable housing market in comparison to median income.

Indianapolis, IN has a Median home price of $112,500. Its Median household income is $60,383, which give us an affordable home sales rating of 89%.

The second most affordable city to live in is Cleveland, OH and the third is Detroit, MI.

For more information about these affordable cities, visit Most affordable real estate markets.

If you're considering a move to the Greater Indianapolis Area, please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for home searches and area reports.

The Great Indiana State Fair for 2007 - It's Here!

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 18:50:08 -0700

It's that time again when the Indiana State Fair returns with its Fairways full of "fair-foods", displays, animals and rides. Celebrating our 151st Fair it's here from August 8 - 19, 2007. You will find there's a little of something for everyone.

Looking for something fun to do with the family? Head on over to the Riley Fun Park. Children can experience the Hands on Farm or spend time at The Wonder Trail.

If a concert is more your style, how about Rascal Flatts or Casting Crown? For more information on Fair Concerts tickets, please visit the link.

Here's a list of some of the upcoming Special Events.:

Special Events

Band Day Competition
Baton Twirling Contest presented by TripToCollege.org
Blue Ribbon Horse Pull
Cornhole Toss Tournament
Daily Parade
Demolition Derby & Fireworks
Farmer's Day Parade
Giant Hot Air Balloon Race presented by Indiana Propane Gas Foundation
First Lady Cheri Daniels' Heartland Walk for Health presented by Clarian Cardiovascular Center
Old-Fashioned Pancake Breakfast presented by Indiana Farm Bureau
Open Car Show
OrthoIndy Cheerleading Competition
OrthoIndy Dance Team Competition
PRCA Rodeo
Queen Pageant presented by Dippin' Dots
Traditional Arts Indiana State Fair Fiddle Contest
World's Largest Drive-Thru Breakfast
Young Hoosier Pianist Competition
Youth Talent Contest presented by TripToCollege.org

And of course, there's always cotton candy or the ferris wheel. Have fun and maybe we'll see you there. If you would like information on Indianapolis housing, please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for home searches and area reports.

All Those Questions About Marion County Taxes?

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:01:00 -0700

If you live in the Central Indiana Area, specifically Marion County - Indianapolis, IN than you've probably heard all the turmiol over the recent property tax bills. Paula Henry wrote a post Property Taxes in Indianapolis~A Solution and another Lockerbie Square For Sale in Indianapolis regarding the problems and reactions to the recent increases.

Well as many of you've heard, we are to pay the 2006 semi-tax amount. But what is that amount and will we receive a new tax bill? Well there's a few ways to get the 2006 tax amount if you are unable to find last year's bill. One way is to call the Treasurer's Office: 327-444. This office asks that you be understanding. Currently they are receiving a large volume of calls so please be patient. This information is also being posted at the following websites:

city/county website: http://www.indygov.org/

Treasurer's website: www.indygov.org/treas

Indianapolis Star website: http://www.indystar.com/

Now our taxes are due on August 10, 2007 and the fall installment is due on November 13, 2007. In fact, there's a frequently asked questions site at http://cms.indygov.org/mypropertytax/FAQ.aspx that is helpful to answer the common questions regarding this matter.

It is also my understanding that today Governor Mitchell Daniels has ordered reassessments in three more counties. The three counties involved are Gibson, Posey, Delaware Counties.

Proprerty taxes don't just affect home-owners. Significant tax increases will end up affecting renters too. Investors will have to make up the differences in their tax bills which will transfer into monthly rent increases for tenants. If you are considering a move, please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for the lastest information on home searches and sales.

The 11th Annual Indy Air Show - August 25th - 26th 2007

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 16:13:18 -0700

Coming soon is the 11th Annual Indy Air Show at the Mt. Comfort Airport. This year featuring the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels' Fighter Jet Squadron and several other performers. There will also be helicopter rides available and you can even bring your camera.

Tickets are available at the Mt. Comfort Airport, your Central Indiana Marsh Supermarket as well as online. You may also purchase tickets at the gate on the day of the show.

Each year the Air Show donates monies to the Riley Children's Hospital Fund. From the 2006 Air Show $130,000 was donated. So not only are you and your family enjoying a spectacular event and program. You are also heling make a difference in a child's life.

So write these dates down on your calender and make plans to come out to the 11th Annual Indy Air Show at the Mt. Comfort Airport. If you are considering a move and would like to know more about the Greater Indianapolis Area visit http://cyndisellsindy.com.

A Visit with the Burmeisters - Old Towne Antiques

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 21:18:28 -0700

Burmeister's Old Towne Antiques is located in the historic town of Pendleton, Indiana. Jerry and Dixie Burmeister are the proud owners of this shop and have been for the last five years.

There's a variety of collectibles and antiques available once inside. The wooden Indian is quite impressive to see and the shop has many treasures just awaiting your discovery.

Jerry shared that one of the funniest items he ever sold was a leg-lamp. You might want to stop by and ask him about that one. I was talking with Dixie and she told me that she had a Chatty-Cathy Doll with case and clothing at one time. Sounded like whoever purchased the doll received a good deal. (Sorry I missed that one!)

Jerry and Dixie are the contact people for the annual event, the Highway 38 sale. This is an annual event you may want to mark on your calenders for 2008. It sounds like a collectors dream. Vendors stretching towards Noblesville to the west and New Castle to the east.

Visiting Pendleton? Stop by the Burmeister's Old Towne Antiques store located on 130 W. State Street.

Considering a move to the Greater Indianapolis Area? Stop by my website http://cyndisellsindy.com for home searches and information about the area. Have a suggestion regarding a town or place you'd like to see an article about? Send your suggestions to cqsloop@yahoo.com.

North-east Greater Indianapolis Home Statistics for June 2007

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 21:14:25 -0700

The statistics below were compiled by Carpenter Realtors for the month of June 2007. If you are interested in another area not included in this post, please contact me. I would be happy to help you with another area in Central Indiana/Greater Indianapolis.

If you are considering a move and would like to know the current value of your home, contact me for a complimentary consultation.

4904-LAWRENCE TWP

List Price Range	Inventory Units	Units Pended	Units Closed (12 months)	Average Days on Market
$0 - 100,000	407	80	556	70
$100,001 - 200,00	535	136	788	76
$200,001 -300,000	163	20	132	98
$300,001 - above	227	22	148	101

Current MLS Inventory of Homes: 1332
Average Sales Price of Homes Sold (12 months): $144,416

4905-WARREN -TWP

List Price Range	Inventory Units	Units Pended	Units Closed (12 months)	Average Days on Market
$0 - 100,000	656	130	944	85
$100,001 - 200,00	557	75	503	89
$200,001 -300,000	36	3	31	81
$300,001 - above	7	1	5	149

Current MLS Inventory of Homes: 1256
Average Sales Price of Homes Sold (12 Months): $89,056

HAMILTON COUNTY

List Price Range	Inventory Units	Units Pended	Units Closed (12 months)	Average Days on Market
$0 - 100,000	87	27	200	76
$100,001 - 200,00	1222	311	2223	75
$200,001 -300,000	733	185	1135	81
$300,001 - above	1259	194	1189	96

Current MLS Inventory of Homes: 3302
Average Sales Price of Homes Sold (12 months): $251,955

MADISON COUNTY

List Price Range	Inventory Units	Units Pended	Units Closed (12 months)	Average Days on Market
$0 - 100,000	753	194	1021	99
$100,001 - 200,00	404	66	398	118
$200,001 -300,000	70	9	38	121
$300,001 - above	55	4	19	106

Current MLS Inventory of Homes: 1282
Average Sales Price of Homes Sold (12 months): $80,312

(Please note that the average days on market for pending and sold do not include withdrawns and expireds.)

Lapel, Indiana Days!

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 16:29:13 -0700

Do you like elephant ears, home-made ice creams, fish-frys, car shows and streets of yard-sales?

Each year Lapel, Indiana has its annual Lapel Days. The town becomes quite active with people participating in the many yard sales that the community has in progress. Some of the historic homes are open to the public for tour and the downtown area has merchants and great food available.

Bob and I enjoyed Dan's Fish-Fry at the Ford Church on Ford Street last night and the home-made ice cream. There was a wonderful car show today hosted by the Lapel Fire Department and we walked down the streets visiting the yard sales and making sure we didn't miss something we might get a great deal on.

While tomorrow is the last day for this event, you may want to mark your calenders for next year so you can come out and enjoy the fun!

Lapel, Indiana is located North-east of Indianapolis in Madison County. Close to Anderson and Noblesville, its main cross-roads are S.R.32 and S.R. 13. I currently have a home listed in this town on W. Main Street. Please visit the link for more information. If you are considering a move in the Greater-Indianapolis area, please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for home searches and area information.

Ransom Place Historic District- Downtown Indianapolis

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 12:14:26 -0700

Ransom Place's boundaries are nestled at the the edge of the IUPUI campus, W. 10th Street on the north, West St. Clair Street on the south, Camp Street on the west, and North West Street on the east. In 1992, Ransom Place was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

This area did not officially receive it's name until 1991 and was named after Freeman Briley Ransom, an outstanding African-American attorney and businessman who made his Indianapolis home in the neighborhood at 828 North California Street. (This home still stands to this day and is pictured below.)

The first lots of this area were platted in 1865 by two printers named, Charles P. and J.M. Meikel. In 1871, a real estate broker named William Y. Wiley became part of the mix. (In fact "Wiley" is part of the legal description in many of the properties.) Settlement was a trick at the time due to the floodplain of the White River. Much of the land was marshy in nature.

First settled by working-class Irish and German immigrants, Ransom Place boasts a mix of wood-frame, gabled Queen Anne- and shotgun-style cottages built in the late 1800s. The area's demographics shifted dramatically from an 86 percent white majority to a 96 percent black majority from 1900 to 1920. Some of the names of the residents of this area were:

Freeman Ransom (828 California Street) Attorney, General Manager for Madam C.J. Walker Company (see above)
John Puryear (854 Camp Street)    City Councilman
Henry Richardson (941 Camp Street) Attorney, Democratic candidate for 1932 State Representative
Rev. William D. Speight (835 California Street)    Minister, AME Zion Church
Oscar W. Langston (835 California Street)    Dentist
Dr. J. Ward (941 California Street)    Physician

Another interesting part of this neighborhood is the "Museum Without Walls." This is done with about 40 signs placed in front of residences within this neighborhood giving the name and occupations of the earliest known residents.

The neighborhood fell on hard times during the Depression, when many family homes were replaced by renters who failed to keep up the properties. The decline continued into the '60s and '70s, when highway construction, university expansions and urban ills took their toll on the neighborhood. This historic district once known for its pristine homes and tree-lined streets became an isolated pocket of vacant, weed-filled lots and run-down, abandoned homes. Fortunately, a well-known activist named Jean Spears started reclaiming this area by purchasing a Queen Anne on Camp street. Spears is the historian and program director for the Heritage Learning Center Museum. For a very detailed PDF File about the people and businesses of this area, visit this link http://www.bsu.edu/capic/culturalindy/districts/indiana/rfp/inave_blueprint_history.pdf.

The Walker Theatre is a well-known building located in this Historic District. Opened in 1927, it was part of Madam Walker's College of Hair Culture and Walker Manufacturing Co. To read more about this remarkable woman visit Madam C.J. Walker.

If you are looking for a Historic Home located on the North-west side of downtown Indianapolis considering Ransom Place. Currently, there's six properties listed for sale in the MLS. Prices range from $135,000 to $215,000. There's even a large church with extra lot a waiting for someone to revitalize it into a residential single or multi-family home. For more ideas and information about the Greater Indianapolis Area, visit http://cyndisellsindy.com.

A Touch of Silcily in Indianapolis

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 09:04:43 -0700

I found another great place to eat in downtown Indianapolis, it's called Bearnos- Little Silcily and it's located at 1 N. Pennsylvania. Not far from Conseco Fieldhouse, Monument Circle and many other activities in the downtown area.

It's one of Louisville's most popular locally owned restaurants and it's now available here in Indianapolis. The dining atmosphere is casual and very family friendly. I even noticed a couple pinball machines in the restaurant. (Ms. Pac-Man, one of my favorites.)

The menu offers pizza, submarine sandwiches or pasta. Specialty pizzas range from the meaty pepperoni extreme to the spicy BBQ chicken. Try to leave room for one of their fabulous desserts, you'll be glad you did.

When Bob and I visited, we had a wonderful waitress named "Rachel" take care of us during our dining experience. Next time we'll go and try one of their pizzas. (We had a pizza-steak sub.) I enjoyed talking to Rachel and appreciated learning more about what it's like to live and work in downtown Indianapolis.

Considering a move to Indianapolis, Indiana? Take a moment to visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for more information about the Greater Indianapolis Area or view home searches.

The Heart of Indianapolis - Monument Circle

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 21:50:30 -0700

This circular plaza is often referred to as the geographic heart of Indianapolis. It encompasses four city blocks that front the circle, Ohio Street to the North, Pennsylvania Street to the East, Washington Street to the South, and Illinois Street to the West. There's strict zoning regulations in place as not to build buildings that's height might cast a shadow on the Soldiers & Sailors Monument.

Originally designed to honor the soldiers of Indiana's Civil War Veterans, it now honors the valor of all Indiana Military Men and Women from all wars prior to W. W. I The Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum is housed in the lower level and was opened in 1999. The monument was designed by German architect Bruno Schmitz, and was completed in 1901.

When this circle was first created it was designed much like Washington D. C. and was to house the Governor's residence. While a mansion was built somewhere around 1827, a Governor never lived in the home. Finally, in 1857, the residence was torn down. Today the circle is surrounded by small retail shops, studios for several radio stations, as well as Hilbert Circle Theatre which is home to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Being the center of town, it is a common meeting place for festivals and public activities. It has been decorated at Christmas every year since 1945.

If you are planning a visit to Indianapolis, be sure to plan a visit to the heart of Indianapolis. Considering a move? Please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for more information about the Greater Indianapolis Area.

Chatham Arch - An Indianapolis Historic Neighborhood

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 11:11:45 -0700

Chatham Arch is located in the Northeast Quandrant of Downtown Indianapolis and is less than one mile from Monument Circle. As a Historic District it is comprised of mostly single-family and multi-family homes. The northern portion of Chatham Arch has an unusual mixture of housing types. You will find workers' cottages, middle class residences, rental duplexes, apartment buildings and flats, commercial buildings with second floor sleeping rooms, and a few large homes of the wealthy that all existed at the turn of the century. (The map to the left shows the boundaries for Chatham-Arch and Massachusetts Ave as represented on http://www.indygov.org/.

Another important factor about Chatham Arch is its historical roots in many of the major religious denominations of the city. In fact, one of the oldest black congregations, Allen Chapel AME Church, has occupied a location in the area for over 116 years.

In researching this area, I found that part of the land was donated in the original U.S. Government donation for Indianapolis. John Wood, Sr. originally from New York was one of the original outlot purchasers. It was believed that possibly two residences had survived from the first settlement and these homes which were built between 1840-1850s. I was only able to find the home pictured below at 734 N. Park Ave when visiting Chatham Arch. It is said that this home was built by the John Koch family. I also found a picture of the home at http://www.rileyarea.org prior to being restored. (If you look closely, you can see the split sidewalk evident in both photos.)

The area's irregular street pattern, most of it dating before the Civil War, recalls life in Indianapolis when the city was just beginning to expand beyond the original Mile Square plat. The area also boasts a group of Civil War era workers' cottages on Arch, St. Clair, and 9th Streets. Each of the homes shown below, are listed for sale at time of writing. Prices range between $249,900 - $399,900. Many of the warehouses have been converted into condos. Besides the historic homes, you will also find new townhouses which meet the historic guidelines for the area.

Are you planning a visit to Indianapolis? Want to experience the Chatham Arch Neighborhood first hand? It just so happens that a wonderful Bed & Breakfast called the Hoffman House is located at 545 E. Eleventh Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-2627. Laura Arnold is the owner and inn keeper.

Chatham Arch is just steps from the downtown activity and situated close to I65 and I70. There are plans to extend the Indy Cultural Trail into the area by 2008. (See http://activerain.com/blogsview/76016/New-to-Indianapolis-Visit for more information about the Monon Trail.)

For more information about the Greater Indianapolis Area and/or help in searching for a home, please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com. I would love to assist you in finding your next home.

Another "Great" Indianapolis Eating Establishment!

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 09:12:09 -0700

Anyone that has lived in this area for sometime probably knows about this "yummy" place downtown. But if you are just visiting or new to Indianapolis, here's a taste bud adventure well worth checking out and you have a choice between downtown or to the Carmel location. Either way, make sure you're hungry, there's several choices before you! (Pictures taken at the downtown location.)

Let me just share some of the pictures I took the day Paula Henry and I met for lunch.

For more information, please visit http://www.shapiros.com/. If you are looking for information regarding the Greater Indianapolis Area, please visit http://cyndisellsindy.com/ for neighborhood, school and home info. If you get a chance to drop by Shapiros, let me know what you thought about it, csloop@callcarpenter.com.

"Cook good. Serve generously. Price modestly. People will come." Louis Shapiro's motto started a legacy back in 1905. That motto holds just as true today. What was "The American Grocery Store" is now this country's "granddaddy" of delis. (Borrowed from the home page of http://www.shapiros.com/)

On Tour at E. 20th Street in Herron-Morton Place - Indianapolis

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 08:38:34 -0700

Today's tour takes us to the fabulous downtown historic district of Herron-Morton Place. Located near Central and 20th Street, you will find this home has been renovated to reflect the style and grace of it's 1900's era.

List Price $250,00

Features:
3 bedrooms
3 baths
Living Room
Dining Room
Kitchen
Finished Attic
2 Bonus Areas
All the woodwork, floors, doors and wood windows have been refinished to reflect
their original beauty. Master Retreat has walk-in-closet and jetted tub with seperate shower.

Also included is a Home Warranty and $2000 towards your choice in appliances. ( Listing Agent is Tracy Pflum - CARP02 - Castleton Office.)

If you are considering a move, please visit my website http://cyndisellsindy.com for more real estate information and homes searches. Looking for a Buyer's Agent to represent you on your next purchase? Please don't hesitate to call (317) 362-2799 direct.

Indy Island Aquatic Center in Warren Township

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 10:42:17 -0700

Looking for a fun place to take the family for a swim? Here's an affordable indoor water park located in Warren Township by Franklin & Raymond Roads.

The aquatic center features two heated pools, a small slide for the little kiddies, the water geyser, a 150 ft. spiral slide, a 3 lane lap pool and a hot tub.

HOURS
Wednesday and Friday, 4-8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, Noon-5 p.m.
Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more information:

8575 E. Raymond Street

(317) 862-6876

You can also rent Indy Island on the weekends. Times available listed below.
RENTAL FACILITIES AND FEES
We have rental times from 5:30 -7:30 p.m. on Saturdays an Sundays. Friday evenings will be available occasionally as well. Please call us today for more information and to book your group. Indy Island will hold up to 250 people.

Enjoy your summer! Please visit my website at http://cyndisellsindy.com for more information about the Greater Indianapolis Area.

A Simple Summer's Evening. . .

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 23:13:27 -0700

It's been hot, very hot in Indianapolis the last few days. So what do you do to keep cool and still enjoy the warm weather?

Have you tried an evening's drive around sunset time over to the Geist Resevoir? (Fall Creek & Brook School Rd.) I enjoy taking a drive in the convertible. It's cooler in the evenings, relaxing and beautiful.

HINT: You could also add a stop over at 116th street & Brook School Road at the Ritter's Ice Cream or maybe over at the McDonalds on Olio Rd.

Either way, take some time to enjoy the view, spend time in your community and enjoy summer.

Have a wonderful summer!

Thinking of a move into the Geist Area? Visit http://cyndisellsindy.com for more information on the Indianapolis, Indiana area.

What Transforms a House to a Home? How About a Cactus?

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 08:10:01 -0700

Whenever we purchase a house that we actually live in, we do and find things that will make our house a home that is uniqually "ours."

I'd like to share the gift that Uncle Eddie and Aunt Laura Belle have given to family members and friends. (While both of these wonderful people have passed, there's a reminder of them living at a few homes.)

When moving back to Indiana, this couple wanted to bring a long something special from their Florida home. While most of us would not consider Indiana or Michigan a place for a cactus Uncle Eddie and Aunt Laura Belle found out this plant would survive in this climate.

Once their plant became established, they gave a piece of this plant to Bob's Mom who passed it along to me. Each time I pass by my plant, these wonderful people come to mind. And, I'm the only one on my street that has this unique plant. (Can't say that about my neighgorhood, my in-laws live just a few streets over.)

Look at how beautiful it is when blooming. If one of the "ears" as I call them falls off, all I have to do is pick it up and plant a small portion into the ground. In the winter-time, the plant sort of shrivels up until the Spring time when it revives again and starts growing.

About the only drawback of this plant, it is a cactus and therefore has picky things that easily get into your fingers. It goes much better if you wear leather gloves when working with and around these plants.

(This was a very small piece that I brought with me when I moved from Michigan in November 2005 to here in Indianapolis, Indiana. The plant grows fairly fast.)

A Trip Home . . . I Always Find Something New.

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:28:27 -0700

Last Friday, I headed northward up I-69 towards Michigan. I was very excited, I was going to see my daughters and spend sometime in the area I grew up in.(Daughter Erin and Me)

Have you ever grown up somewhere or maybe lived in an area for a long time in your life? Going home is always exciting but also allows me to see the changes more clearly that take place in an area.

One of the things that was different for me, as I passed various areas, I thought of what Active Rain and the people I knew lived in these areas. Or if I didn't know of an AR person, I thought about who I might know to invite and to sponsor an under-served area of Indiana and/or Michigan. Below is the small town of Jonesville,

MI. I know of some agents that live and service this area. None of which are currently on the network. Maybe the agent that has the listing of the old farm house (above) might be interested in joining? It's worth a try . . .

As I passed the Ann Arbor, MI area I thought about Missy Caulk, Ann Arbor Real Estate. I wished I'd had more time and opportunity to stop by and meet her. (Not this trip, but maybe the next one.)

As I came up into the Metro-Detroit Area, a couple of people came to mind, like RALPH ROBERTS and Dmitry & Maureen: Moving Metro Detroit. I visited Eddie's Drive-In (sorry, no picture), Harper Woods and Utica, Michigan while I was there.

How about you? When you travel somewhere now or hear of an area on the news, do you think about what Active Rain members live there?

Comparing Cameras - Kodak V570 vs. Fugi S3100

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 22:48:56 -0700

Ok, ok . . . I know that Jeff Turner, Mike Stankewich, Frank Llosa and many other Active Rain members have spoken about the Kodak V705 & V570 as being a great camera for REALTORS to use because of its wide angel lens and easy point and shoot capability.

I just want to add to the list of satisfied customers. While I've only had this V570 for the last 2 hours, I am seeing what an amazing difference it makes in the ability to fit in a room. I normally use Bob's FUJI S3100. The FUJI camera takes clean, clear pictures. (Although there's been times of frustration when I could not make the flash fire when I really needed it too!)

(Fireplace with FUJI S3100) (Fireplace with Kodak V570 )

Both pictures were taken from the same spot. The Kodak offers me several more options as far as focus and lighting are concerned and I can force the flash to fire on the Kodak. (Forcing a flash is an important feature on any camera you use.) I have not gotten into the software as of yet so there's probably some more things that I can do to help with the color and enhancement of these pictures.

(FUGI S3100) (KODAK V570)

Again, both pictures taken from the same spot in the room and both taken with the flash "ON." My livingroom is long. The dimensions are 27 X 16 and looks open in the first picture but the second picture allows you to see more of the room and the vaulted ceiling. The more of the room you can show, the better idea a prospect has of it. There's nothing more frustrating for me than taking a photo of a bedroom and cutting off a portion of the bed because I can't get far enough away without the door jam showing or something else that will take away from the photo.

In the pictures below, you will see a common problem I run into when taking a picture of one of the spare bedrooms in a home. These bedrooms are small, with angles and furniture that make it somewhat difficult to take a picture that's quality enough to include online. This room is 10 X 10 and still looks small even with a wide angle. (Maybe because it is!)

(FUGI) (KODAK)

So I agree with the AR group. If you're considering a new camera, want something easy to use and small enough to carry around. Than you may want to consider the (Newer) V705 Kodak camera or if you run across the V570 Kodak (older) camera both are great cameras with a lot to offer. Run a blog post search on Kodak Cameras and you will find a wealth of information about these cameras and what they can do for you.

A Time and Place to Reminisce in Indianapolis - Mug n Bun Drive-In

Cynthia Sloop (Community Association Manager) — Wed, 30 May 2007 21:39:33 -0700

Mug-n-Bun Drive-In Restaurant 5211 W 10th St
Indianapolis, IN 46224-6905

If you grew up in the 50s, 60s or 70s then you remember going to the drive-in hambuger stand for a frosty glass of rootbeer and some deep-fried onion rings. Not to many of these places still exist today. Fortunately, the Mug n Bun, located near Speedway on the the Northwest side of Indianapolis has some how survived.

If you're interested in a little nostalgia, dust off that classic car, load up the family and head on over towards the speedway. Looking for more information about the Greater Indianapolis Area? Visit http://cyndisloop4indyhomes.com.