Wordless Wednesday:Spooktacular Real Estate - 09/29/10 02:18 PM

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National Flood Insurance has been extended... - 09/29/10 01:20 AM
For those of us here in Southwest Louisiana this is welcome news and relief as we have just had the anniversary of Hurricane Rita 5 years ago in 2005 and Ike in 2006. We know all too well the importance of Flood Insurance!
Fema has just issued new flood maps for Calcasieu Parish. Areas that may not have been in a flood zone before may now be deemed in a flood zone with the new maps.
Sellers may be surprised to learn when they sell their homes the new  buyers of the home may be required by the lender to obtain … (2 comments)

My Future is So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades - 09/27/10 12:13 AM
My Future is So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades

 
YES I wear sunglasses alot!   I had not noticed that I was establishing a trend but  many folks  have responded via Facebook and Active Rain concerning my "cool cat" sunglasses.  These fun comments are beginning to outweigh the feedback I receive from my video blogs regarding my speech!  (Southern accent??? what accent?)
I've come across several Active Rainmakers who actually have their profile pictures sporting their "shades". I wonder if Active Rain Ambassador Todd Clark  receives comments about his polarized shades?  He sure is a recognizable figure maybe I will … (16 comments)

Fantasy Football: Why every Realtor should care! - 09/25/10 08:58 PM
  No matter where you live there will always be a team to cheer for! 
This is a very clever article written by a Denver REALTOR Damon Knop about being "in the know" whether its sports or Hollywood Star activity--it gives you something to talk about with people and/or social media avenues!
We love our football here in the South and Fantasy Football is networking at its best! 
Geaux Saints!!
Via StapletonHomeTeam KnopHomeTeam (Distinctive Properties, Ltd):
Fantasy Football: Why every Realtor should care!
The very short answer is that it matters! Whether you are a die hard football fan with a Bronco tattoo … (3 comments)

A Hurricane Ultimately Swept me into Real Estate - 09/25/10 04:36 AM
The Beginning of My Real Estate Career

NOTE THIS IS PERSONAL RECOLLECTION  OF THE 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF HURRICANE RITA:
SEPTEMBER 2005-SEPTEMBER 2010
 
As our Lake Charles, LA friends rebuilt, we began to rebuild too starting a new chapter of our lives in Boca Raton, FL. 
Many people have asked me how and why I got into real estate.  Ask anyone from Florida about what real estate was like in 2005 and they will tell you it was booming!
I moved to Florida with no job in mind.  What  was I going to do...retirement was not an option!  My … (7 comments)

The Louisiana Purchase Card and MRE's : Disaster Relief Remembering 5 Years AGO - 09/24/10 01:09 PM
 
******NOTE THIS IS PERSONAL RECOLLECTION  OF THE 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF HURRICANE RITA NOT A CURRENT STORM************** 
Review the Intro Post 5 Years Later Remembering Rita
Remembering the Aftermath of Hurricane Rita

When Calcasieu Parish opens again residents begin to return  home to Lake Charles, LA and repair. What most of us will find is unbelievable and some are not prepared for what they find.
Returning from the airport, as I  get closer approaching Lake Charles along I-210 the sights were already different.  We soon learned from our friends that no stores had yet re-opened and we dependent … (1 comments)

Fall in Canal Place, Lake Charles, LA - 09/23/10 09:01 PM
 

Yesterday was the first day of Fall and from the looks of the Canal Place subdivision, residents are getting in the spirit with Fall decorations in the hopes that cooler temperatures will arrive soon!
I took a break and spent the afternoon getting the Boudreaux home decorated.  All I need now are a few orange pumpkins and some Fall mums to add to the front porch to make our Fall welcome complete!

 
Canal Place Subdivision is located in South Lake Charles, Louisiana.  This South Lake Charles restricted neighborhood is one of Lake Charles finest neighborhoods and residents … (8 comments)

My "Hurrication" Experience - 09/23/10 12:22 AM
********NOTE THIS IS PERSONAL RECOLLECTION  OF THE 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF HURRICANE RITA NOT A CURRENT STORM************** 
Review the Intro Post 5 Years Later Remembering Rita
 
Remembering Rita the next Chapter......
September 23, 2005: Evacuating on I-10 I have just enough gas to make it to Lafayette, LA to meet my son.  I feel somewhat safe with my son in his 2 bedroom upstairs apartment.  The dogs smell fear and know something is up, the pomeranians find a hiding spot and Goldie curls up underneath my son's computer desk.  It's been a rough day for all of us! We … (7 comments)

Calling All Investors! 80 Road Home Properties Go to Auction - 09/22/10 11:53 PM
Calling All Investors! 80 Road Home Properties Go to Auction
ONE TIME OPPORTUNITY IN
Lake Charles, LA

Five years ago, residents of Calcasieu Parish evacuated for Hurricane Rita.  The aftermath of the storm left many homes destroyed.  In an effort to rebuild the State of Louisiana created a  program called The Road Home.  Homeowners could receive funds to repair their homes or sell their property to Louisiana Land Trust.  Some homeowners would abandon their home and never repair or return.
This Saturday, September 25th  80 Road Home properties will be auctioned off to highest bidders.  The Louisiana Land Trust Road … (2 comments)

With rates so low why rent? The advantages of home ownership. - 09/22/10 09:44 PM
This is a Blog  written  from a lender Nevin Williams in CA but it applies to everyone who may be renting including those in Southwest Louisiana.  Another good reason to buy a home with the rates low make your money work for you!  There is a large inventory of homes to choose from and a buyer's market in Lake Charles, LA!
Via Nevin Williams, Conventional,jumbo & FHA (First Priority Financial, San Diego jumbo & conventional ):
It's staggering when you think about the cost of living, especially if you're a renter and not a home owner. If you are currently paying $1,000 a … (6 comments)

Wordless Wednesday: My Neighbor Got Rolled - 09/22/10 08:35 PM

 
It's been a long time since I have seen this sight! Guess we all slept through this activity last night on our street (pets included).  My geriatric dogs don't have the sharp ears they once had!   
This is my neighbor's house I'm sure they were delighted to wake up to this surprise. It caught my eye as I backed out of my drive way this morning.
When I was in high school if you house got "rolled" as we called it, you were probably popular and  it was actually a compliment but I don't think our parents felt … (6 comments)

Relocation: An Industry Overview of what to expect in Southwest Louisiana - 09/22/10 12:09 PM
Relocating to Lake Charles LA? 
 
The petro chemical industry  within Southwest Louisiana has had a positive effect on the Lake Charles, LA market keeping real estate at a constant stability.  As industry expands employees are needed and relocation of employees moving to and from Lake Charles keeps experienced relocation REALTORS busy. 
Forbes magazine recently ranked Lake Charles #9 in the top 10 up and coming cities in the United States.  The strength of  Lake Charles, LA  lies in it's petro chemical industry, the Port of Lake Charles and its growing stature in the United States largest hubs for importation … (6 comments)

Rural Development Loans in Louisiana-Changing Again Oct 1 - 09/21/10 02:09 PM
***********Update since post on 9-21*************************
Senate passed a one year extension on the National Flood Insurance Program NFIP by unamimous consent
**************************************************************************************************************  
Rural Development Loans in Louisiana-Changing Again Oct 1
 
In Southwest Louisiana 100% USDA Financing is an extremely popular loan.  We have been fortunate in Calcasieu Parish that due to recent storms (which worked in our favor) we have had our funds replenished and as a result many first time home buyers have been able to purchase a home with this avenue of financing.
 
We already have the obstacle of overcoming Flood Insurance and the NFIP will … (5 comments)

Evacuating Like a Band on the Run with 3 Pomeranians and a Golden Retriever - 09/21/10 12:01 AM
********NOTE THIS IS PERSONAL RECOLLECTION NOT A CURRENT STORM************** 
Read the Intro Post 5 Years Later Rembering Rita
 

As the Storm Approached September 23, 2005
    Everywhere you go people are talking about Hurricane Rita.  Lake Charles city officials, law enforcement and Calcasieu Parish Emergency staff are all keeping a close eye on the storm and as it draws closer taking a lesson from Katrina, the news begins to encourage residents to leave.   The forecast is not looking good, hurricane trackers predict Lake Charles, LA  could be in for a direct hit.
 
Reaction to the news … (12 comments)

Five Years Later ....Remembering Rita - 09/20/10 12:06 AM
Five Years Later Remembering Rita

 Lake Charles just celebrated the grand opening of our new Bord du lac Marina in Lake Charles, LA which I attended.  This was a great achievement and such a happy occasion.... especially considering the fact that five years ago we were all watching the stormy waters of Hurricane Rita heading our way. Last night the Lake Charles waters were calm and the boats were rockin to music not tidal waves!
Five years ago this week, Cameron, LA and Lake Charles, LA took a direct hit when Hurricane Rita made landfall on September 23, 2005. … (11 comments)

Sellers~Lower your prices if you want to sell your home!! - 09/19/10 11:14 PM
This post is a good commentary by Diane Casale in Huntsville, AL  referring to a recent Washington Post article regarding Seller's lowering home prices.
  Its a Buyer's market in Southwest Louisiana with alot of inventory to choose from.  Buyer's are being more selective.  Sellers take note you don't want to overprice your home. Be sure you are priced right don't expect a  gain of equity in a short amount of time expecially if you purchased at higher prices after Hurricane Rita.
Via Diane Casale, REALTOR, ABR, SNP (Crye-Leike Realtors, Huntsville, Alabama):
 There was a fantastic article in The Washington Post the other … (4 comments)

Warehouse District New Orleans, World War II Museum expands! - 09/19/10 10:43 PM
My  fellow Louisiana REALTOR , Eric Bouler posted this informational blog about the WWII Museum.   I want to make sure others view it especially since the NAR convention (NardiGras) will be held in New Orleans in about 45 more days!  There will be many REALTORS and Active Rain members who head this way so Bookmark this post and plan to get by this musuem when you come to visit New Orleans!
Via Eric Bouler (Prudential Gardner,Licensed in La.):
The Warehouse District and the World War II Museum. They are neighbors and both are on the move !
September 1st, 2010 Categories: Second Homes, … (0 comments)

Save My Place I'll Be Right Back - 09/18/10 12:24 AM
Flickr credit
I love Starbucks coffee and I am a regular at the drive thru!  Occasionally when I meet friends for coffee  I must go inside and wait in line!  Starbucks has their system down to minimize your wait in line.  You step up to order, pay and move aside for your coffee so the next person in line can have their turn.
Picture this...While standing in line at Starbucks the person in front of you turns around and says "save my place I'll be right back I forgot my purse" Now what they are really doing is holding up the … (11 comments)

Going to the Dogs in Lake Charles, LA - 09/15/10 09:31 PM
Elliot Erwitt: Dog Dogs
Traveling Exhibit
October 8, 2010- Jan. 15, 2011
 
Attention ALL Dog Lovers!  The 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center has done it again.  A wonderful traveling exhibit is coming to Lake Charles on October 8,2010.  This one involves dogs and you and your pooch can get involved! 
My friends Andrew and Lania Vanchiere have generously contributed to this exhibit with a fun dog themed contest!  You can submit photos of you and your dog and all entries will be displayed with the Dog Dogs exhibit.
The idea for the contest is to capture the … (5 comments)

McNeese Alumni Association and Graywood Team up in Lake Charles - 09/14/10 11:09 AM
McNeese Alumni Association and Graywood Team up in Lake Charles


As part of Graywood's commitment to community and fund raising, Graywood is providing services for McNeese alumni.
If you are a McNeese alumni you can enjoy membership privileges at the Clubs of Graywood with a 50% reduction in the initiation fee for the membership of your choice.   The amount you pay will then be given back to the McNeese alumni association by Graywood.
There are  several Graywood memberships to choose from:
Golf Sports Club/Fitness Social/Swim Full Privilege Membership For more information contact Membership Director, Call Ann O'Reilly, 337 … (2 comments)

South Lake Charles Home For Sale 100% Financing - 09/13/10 12:23 PM
South Lake Charles Home For Sale 100% Financing
1847 South Bend
3 Bedrooms 2 Bath Home $149,900

This house is located in South Lake Charles  in the highly desired Barbe High School SJ Welsh Middle School district.  Large lot size at the end of a dead end street, this split floor plan offers spacious family living.  Many updates throughout. Main  living area features a tray ceiling.  
With 100% USDA financing available, this home is a great buy in South Lake Charles.

Searching for a home in South Lake Charles?  Contact MARILYN BOUDREAUX 337 499 9592
… (3 comments)

Remembering 9/11 With the Ribbon of Souls - 09/11/10 12:08 PM
I know there will be many 9/11 posts today on the actual date.  I posted this blog earlier in the week so it would not get lost in the shuffle  and was asked to re-post on 9/11
 
9/11 Memorial To be Dedicated in Lake Charles, LA

As we approach the anniversary of 9/11 this weekend, Lake Charles has a new 9/11 Memorial that will be dedicated on September 18 when the new Lakefront Promenade is officially unveiled.  I have been blogging on the progress of the Lakefront Promenade all Spring and the first phase will be available to all … (6 comments)

Graywood Couples Golf & Dine Event in Lake Charles, LA - 09/09/10 09:50 PM
Graywood Couples Golf & Dine Event in Lake Charles, LA

 
 
Do you and your spouse love to golf?  Back by popular demand in Graywood is the Couples Nine & Dine.  Play 9 holes of mixed golf and afterwards enjoy dinner in the Cypress Grill!
3 dates to choose from September 13, September 27 and October 4th.  Sign up in the Pro Shop or call John Morrissey for more information 562-1663 ext 1.
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Planning an Open House? Better Check the Football Schedule First! - 09/09/10 12:10 AM
It's Finally Here- The Big KickOff  Thursday Celebration !

 
The pre-party starts Thursday evening from the big  stage set  in front of Jackson Square in New Orleans.  The crews have been setting up since Labor Day! The fans are ready for SAINTS FOOTBALL!!

 
Around here in Lake Charles, LA you won't find many Open Houses well attended on Sunday 1-3pm (at least when the Saints or Cowboys are playing on a Sunday afternoon...both are extremely popular team favorites.  Do yourself a favor, check the NFL football schedule before your Open House event!
 
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Wordless Wednesday: Oh When the Saints Go Marching In - 09/08/10 02:11 PM

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Lake Charles Will Officially Dedicate Lakefront Promenade Sept 18 - 09/07/10 08:30 PM
Lake Charles Will Officially Dedicate Lakefront Promenade Sept 18
There is alot of excitement and anticipation as the City of Lake Charles completes Phase I of the Lakefront Promenade.
As you view the video by our Lake Charles Mayor Randy Roach, you will notice many of the photographs I have previously posted in earlier blogs including the new fountain and design of the geese sculpture! 
 

This is exiting news for our city, we have waited a long time for lakefront development and there is more to come in the future.  GO LAKE CHARLES!
 
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9/11 Memorial To be Dedicated in Lake Charles, LA - 09/07/10 08:11 PM
9/11 Memorial To be Dedicated in Lake Charles, LA

As we approach the anniversary of 9/11 this weekend, Lake Charles has a new 9/11 Memorial that will be dedicated on September 18 when the new Lakefront Promenade is officially unveiled.  I have been blogging on the progress of the Lakefront Promenade all Spring and the first phase will be available to all to enjoy within a week.
As part of the new Lakefront Promenade, the City of Lake Charles has included a 9/11 Memorial in part of the new boardwalk design.  The setting is one for quiet reflection.  The City … (6 comments)

Ever Heard of a Starving Artist? - 09/06/10 07:49 PM
The Jackson Square of Real Estate

I spent Labor Day weekend in New Orleans with a group of friends.  Downtown in the heart of New Orleans along Jackson Square you will find artists along the Pedestrian Mall.   They surround Jackson Square with their art visibly displayed for sale for all customers to see.  People walk up and look and comment politely.  The artists sit under their umbrellas ready to assist buyers and describe the art in detail.  Some will even paint a custom portrait if you are patient to pose!
As we walked along, all of this activity reminded me … (5 comments)

Speechless Sunday:New Orleans Architecture - 09/05/10 02:40 AM
Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans

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What Are you Doing for Labor Day? Try Riding the Rails This Weekend - 09/03/10 04:52 PM
Riding the Amtrack Rails from Lake Charles to New Orleans

Everyone should take a train trip in their lifetime!  
Lake Charles, LA may not be too progressive, and our Amtrack station may not be fancy (we only have a caretaker of the station lol), but you can catch the Amtrack train in Lake Charles and go just about anywhere you want to go!

Check the route schedule at www.amtrack.com. We met friends at the station this morning to board the Amtrack train headed to New Orleans, LA.  Although we had coach seats, you can reserve a sleeping car … (7 comments)

Connect 2 the 1 Agent with Two Websites Because 2 is Better than One - 09/03/10 12:20 AM
Connect 2 the 1 Agent with Two Websites Because 2 is Better than One!
MARILYN BOUDREAUX, Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co.'s LAKE CHARLES, LA

 
 
I am officially announcing the addition of my second website www.bestlakecharlesrealestate.com.
Now consumers can bookmark both marilynboudreauxc21.com and bestlakecharlesrealestate.com
WHY?
Because consumers need variety and choices. Not every website fits the need of everyone.  I like to think outside the Box!
If you are a BUYER or SELLER in the Lake Charles, LA area be sure to visit these convenient websites for your MLS property search and information on the Lake Charles, … (3 comments)

Helpful Tips to Remember When Listing Investment Properties - 09/02/10 06:05 PM
Listing Investment Properties in Lake Charles, LA
 

Helpful tips to remember when listing investment property for sale:
Ask the Seller to contact the Renter and notify the Renter that the house will be listed. Obtain the Seller's approval to contact the Renter for access to the property. Contact the Renter and obtain their approval to access the property. When arriving at the property, identify yourself to the Renter as the Listing Agent for the Seller, leave a card with the Renter so they will remember you and explain the showing process to the Renter (chances are the … (6 comments)

Why Some Houses Sit While Others Sell - 09/02/10 12:04 AM
Why Some Houses Sit While Others Sell
In this short video blog, Real Estate Author, Jay Papasan shares some insight for Sellers regarding pricing your home in a very easy to understand way.  As a seller there are basically 3 zones you may find yourself in:
In No Man's Land Out of the Market If you are not getting any showings you are Out of the Market
If you are getting showings but no offers you are close but you may be in no man's land.
 
 

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Boudreaux-1281_high Ambassador_large

Marilyn Boudreaux, Lake Charles REALTOR® Lake Charles LA Real Estate

Lake Charles, LA

More about me…

Marilyn Boudreaux, Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co.'s

Address: Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co.'s, 4410 Nelson Road, Lake Charles, LA, 70605

Office Phone: (337) 478-1578

Cell Phone: (337) 499-9592

Email Me

Author Bio: Marilyn Boudreaux Marilyn Boudreaux is a full time REALTOR® licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission and affiliated with Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co.'s in Lake Charles, LA. Marilyn Boudreaux is one of the top 100 real estate agents within the entire Century 21 South Louisiana/Texas Region

This Blog highlights Lake Charles Real Estate Market Trends, Tips for Lake Charles Home Buyers and Sellers, Current Lake Charles Homes for Sale, Video Tours, Lake Charles Community Lifestyle and Fun Things to do in Southwest Louisiana. Click subscribe to stay informed!

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