Optimism for a weary soul is hard to come by, but I will keep putting one foot in front of the other.

I finally had to do it.  Being a single parent and trying to stay in Real Estate has been a challange.  I had a part time job which is now my full time job.  My dream is on the back burner but I am not done.  For those in this situation I will be optimistic that things will get better and hang in there.  It is tough and the way things are wtih the economy I do not think it will be an easy road for some time. 

Some bloggers on AR have said there areas have picked up, which is good.  Sioux City seemed to roll along with the Mortgage crisis.  We held our own during the winter months and patiently waited for Spring.  Spring came with a whimper and not a bang.  As gas prices went up and other necessities went up in price too, I found myself close to financial ruin.  I had to make the hard choice to go full time at my retail job.  I am on my feet all day running around and when I get home can barley move.  I have neglected AR and other duites associated with Real Estate.  Talking with others I found that I wasn't the only one feeling the pinch.  Realtors with a Spouse who makes good money are feeling it too.  I am not alone, which in a weird sense is comforting. 

I am keeping my license active and will take the opportunity to get those classes done that need to be done.  I waited a long time to do this and I will not give up that easily.  I still hope to do this full time and leave retail behind. 

"The journey is the reward"  Tao saying.

"Learn how to be happy with what you have while you pursue all that you want."  Jim Rohn

"This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Dakota Dunes, South Dakota a great place to live. Another location for those that would be working for Hyperion.

Dakota Dunes, South Dakota has beautiful homes in a gorgeous setting.  Dakota Dunes is a planned community where careful attention is taken when designing homes.  Homes are designed to blend in with the natural beauty of the area.  The Dunes has something for everyone when it comes to housing, such as, building sites, homes, townhomes and upscale apartments.  During the last ten years the Dunes has become home to 75 businesses.  With the Missouri river close by and other recreation activities in the area this is a great place to live. To view homes currently on the market, click here.

Dakota Dunes has the Dakota Dunes Country Club and the Two Rivers Golf Course.  With Sioux City nearby there are plenty of things to do.  Weekly summer concerts, the Art Center, Tyson Events Center to catch a concert or watching a Minor League Baseball game.   To the north is Sioux Falls and south lies Omaha Nebraska.

Dakota Valley Elementary School

Dakota Valley Middle School
With low student to teacher ratios, students are well prepared for their high school years.

Dakota Valley High School
Dakota Valley High School has a student centered staff and a comprehensive curriculum.

To find out more about the public schools in Dakota Dunes South Dakota, click here.

There are also economic advantages:

No local sales tax
No corporate income tax
No personal property tax
No business inventory tax
No inheritance tax
No personal income tax

If Hyperion Resources get the final approval to build in Elk Point South Dakota, the Dunes are within a few minutes' drive.  Here is another great area to raise a family in South Dakota.

 Click here, to view Michele's website. 

Information on relocating to Vermillion, South Dakota. Here is another area of consideration for those that will be working for Hyperion Resources.

Vermillion South Dakota is located in the south east comer of the state.  It is within a short drive of where Hyperion Resources has decided to build an oil refinery.  Vermillion is located on the Missouri River.  It was visited by Lewis and Clark in August 1804.  This are for many years had been home to the Yankton Sioux Indians.  In 1843 John J Audubon stopped here to view the abundance of bird life.  Settlers and Homesteaders started arriving in 1859.  Today Vermillion offers a University, golf course's, recreation and a great place to live.

Area Attractions:

Oscar Howe Gallery, Austin-Whittemore Museum, W. H. Over Museum, and the Dakota Dome.

Lodging:

Comfort Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Super 8, Home Towne Inn, Travelodge, and Valiant Vineyards B&B.  Yes, there is a winery.

Retail:

Walmart, True Value Hardware, Slumberland, Hy- Vee Grocery Store, and Dakota PC Warehouse just to name a few.

Restuarants, Pubs and fast food:

Burger King, Taco John's, Dominos Pizza, Varsity Pub, and Coffee Shop Gallery to name a few.

The Population of Vermillion is just over 10,000. 

Estimated median household income is around: $28,000.

Estimated median house is around: $88,200.  For information on homes currently on the market, click here.

Vermillion is 40 miles north of Sioux City Iowa.

For information on University of South Dakota, Vermillion:

http://www.usd.edu/

For information on the Clay County Fair:

http://www.claycountyfair.net/

For information on the Vermillion school district:

http://www.vermillion.k12.sd.us/

Vermillion Chamber of Commerce.  This site has a lot of information

http://www.vermillionchamber.com/

City of Vermillion website:

http://www.vermillion.us/

Information for those relocating, especially those that are coming to South Dakota in reference to Hyperion Resources.

Moving is an ordeal that most of us would rather not do.  If you are lucky enough to have your move paid for by your company, this is ideal situation to be in.  Most times the company that is paying for the move will ask you to get at least two estimates. When the moving company comes to do the estimates ask what it entails when they come into your home to move you?  My movers were great and did all the work.  All I had to do was stay out of the way.

If you are moving yourself get estimates from truck rental companies.  Also I would advise that ahead of time start getting boxes, and any materials to wrap breakables.  Wardrobe boxes make it very easy to move your clothes from your closet.  They are a little pricey but worth it.  I used mine then sold them to someone. 

 This is something that most forget to do and that is get together a file with documents you will need during and after your move.  Have your child's old school information, which will be needed by their new school.  Insurance documents, doctor information, vehicle registration/title, passports, veterinary records, anything that will be needed to get things going in your new location.  Just remember not to pack them.

Here is a list of things that need to be done.  There may be things you will want to add to it.

• Obtain and fill out post office change-of-address cards.
• Make arrangements for storage if necessary.
• Properly dispose of items that cannot be moved, such as flammable liquids.
• Return any borrowed items (including library books) and retrieve any loaned items.
• Settle any bills with local businesses.
• Drain power equipment of oil and gas. Drain water hoses.
• Pack a box of items that will be needed first at the new house. Clearly mark this box "Load Last."
• Pack a suitcase with clothes and toiletries that will be needed during your move.
• Notify all utilities: water, garbage, electric, gas and sewer, both at your old residence and new. 
• Stop phone service and start new service at your new home.  Also your cable/satellite company should be notified and possible set up a time to start your service in your new home.
• Arrange for a house cleaning at your old home once empty.  Have your new home cleaned before moving in, if it wasn't done by the previous owners.
• And remember; keep your receipts for your move.  It is a tax write off.

Moving Companies:

http://www.vanlines.com/

http://www.asapvanlines.com/

http://www.bekins.com/moving/

http://www.mayflower.com/

These are just a few companies.  There are many resources online for "moving".   

In continuing my blogs about relocation to South Dakota for the jobs that will be generated by Hyperion Resources, Vermillion South Dakota will be my next community I will talk about.

To view homes currently on the market in South Dakota, Iowa or Nebraska, click here.

Thanks for reading,

Elk Point South Dakota and future home of Hyperion Resources refinery. What to expect.

Named one of the "Best Place to live in Rural America", Elk Point, SD, is a community of 1,855 located 15 miles from Sioux City, Iowa on Interstate 29. The Lewis & Clark Expedition made camp in or near Elk Point in August 1804. Elk Point was first settled in 1859, making this community one of the oldest in South Dakota. Elk Point is located in Union County.

Elk Point experienced a resurgence of growth in the 1990s due to an energized business climate along the 75-mile stretch of Interstate 29 between Sioux City and Sioux Falls, SD. Now with Hyperion Resources, resurgence is on its way again.  Within the last decade Elk Point can boast of a new Wel-Life Center for independent senior citizens, a new housing development designed for over 300 new homes, a new 400,000-gallon water tower, and a new $8 million public school designed to meet educational goals of the 21st Century.

Churches in Elk Point:
St. Joseph Catholic Church
First Baptist Church
Brule Creek Lutheran Church
Immanuel Lutheran Church
St. Paul Lutheran Church
United Parish

Restaurants:

Edgar's Ol' Fashioned Soda Fountain & Gift Shop

Paces Late Night Pub

Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant

Ollies Drive Inn

Retail:

Pioneer Drug

True Value Hardware

Jones Food Center

Bloom Where You Planted

Pixie Hair Salon

Radiance Hair Design

Gary's Tree Service

Jeff's Lawn Care

K & K Mobile Storage

Finance:

First Federal Bank

Valley Bank

State Farm Insurance

Rubida Insurance & Real Estate

Valley Insurance

There are four law offices in Elk Point.

Health Care:

Johnson Chiropractic

Community Health Clinic

Wel-Life Assisted Living Center

Jim Slattery Dentistry

Schools:

Elk Point - Jefferson School District

            Website: http://www.epj.k12.sd.us

Demographics:

Average household size: 2.44

Median age: 36.5

Number of Households: 1180

Income:

Median Household Income: $48,500

Average Household Income: $53,140

Sales Tax Rate: 6.00%

What your dollar will buy in Elk Point, South Dakota:

$275,000 will get you 4.6 acres, 3 Bed / 3 Bath, Total Sq. Ft. is 2652.  Totally Restored 2 story from studs to oak floors. Terrific building with room for 6 cars plus living quarters, and huge workshop.

$122,000 will get you .22 acre, 3 Bed/ 2.5 Bath, Total Sq. Ft. is 1680.

To check out homes currently on the market, click here. 

Utility Contacts:

There are a number of websites out on the internet that will give you cost of living comparisons.  One of my favorite sites to use, click here. 

The Sioux City Journal has a blog in reference to Hyperion Resources.  To read this blog, click here.

Hyperion Resources: Relocation to the Elk Point, South Dakota.

Pondering what to write about in my blog! 

In doing this I have decided to write a number of blogs about relocation to Elk Point, South Dakota and the surrounding area.  I can hear you thinking!!  Elk Point, South Dakota, what's there?  Well!  Hyperion Resources is what "will" be there.  Actually, it will probably be located in Elk Point.  Final approval is pending.  Here is a short rundown of what is to be expected in regards to jobs as a result of this venture in South Dakota.

Thousands of acres of farmland in the southeastern tip of South Dakota could become home to the first new oil refinery in the United States since 1976.

Hyperion Resources Inc., a privately held Dallas-based energy company, is considering Elk Point for the $8 billion refinery, which would turn 400,000 barrels of crude oil from Canada per day into low-sulfur gasoline and low-sulfur diesel fuel.

Construction of the refinery would average 4,500 workers over a four-year period, and the plant would employ 1,800 with an average hourly wage of $20 to $30 per hour.

With that in mind I will be blogging about the area: towns, nearest big cities, hospitals, recreation, schools, and other information pertaining to relocating to the area.  If you look at a map Elk Point is in the southeast corner of the state.  It is considered to be in the "Siouxland" area, a tri-state area which encompasses South Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska. 

This part of the country is not that heavily populated.  Sioux City would be bragging if it said it had a population of 100,000.  That is including North Sioux City (SD) and South Sioux City (NE).  Why do I mention Sioux City?  Because it is about 25 miles south of Elk Point.  The population may be a reason why some will relocate to the area given the employment opportunities.  Whether it be the construction phase or being an employee of Hyperion this information will be important.

Some of the towns/areas I will be blogging in addition to Elk Point are: McCook Lake, Dakota Dunes, Richland, Burbank, and Vermillion in South Dakota.  I have blogged about towns in Iowa that are a short distance away.  This might be an area someone will want information about.  I mention this since some may be more inclined to be in the Sioux City area for schools and jobs a spouse may have. 

To start your search for what the area has to offer in terms of homes, click here.

Comparing the cost of living, click here.

Cherokee, Iowa a great place to live.

Cherokee Iowa is one of my favorite towns.  It lies east of Sioux City about 65 miles.  The first time I drove through Cherokee heading north I though it a quaint little town.  The downtown is done nicely and reminds me of a time gone by.  There are nice little shops up and down the main street. 

The town of Cherokee has a few parks and the crown jewel of the city park system is beautiful Spring Lake Park, located along Hwy. 59 South.   This park has 40 camping spaces with electrical, water and sewer hookups, shower and restroom facilities, asphalt paved walking/jogging trail, modern playground equipment, paddle boats, fishing and many shelter facilities including the Spring Lake Yacht Club.  Directly across the highway is Wescott Park, which contains ball diamonds, concession stand and restroom facilities.

Since I am a swimmer I am always interested in places to swim.  Cherokee has the Bacon Aquatic Center.  The Bacon Aquatic Center opens during the summer months.  The hours are from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day, weekends included. Daily admission is $4.00, (age 2 and younger are free with a paid adult).  Family season pass are available.  This is a great way to spend those hot summer days with the kids, or without.

There is also a public library in the town of Cherokee.  Also a regional airport is located in Cherokee. 

Some of the events in Cherokee:

42nd Annual Cherokee PRCA Rodeo.  Performances at 7:30 PM each evening at the Cherokee County Fairgrounds.  May 29 - 31, 2008.

Cherokee County Fair for 2008 will be held, July 10 to the 13^th.

Cherokee Jazz and Blues Festival are usually held in January.

There are many activities and opportunities to enjoy many things, such as: American Theatre, Art Council, Cherokee Community Theatre, Cherokee Symphony, Sanford Museum and Planetarium.

Recreation Activities:

Country Club Golf Course, Little League, Municipal Pool, Cherokee Clippers Swim Team, Hershey Youth Track and Field Meet, Outdoor Fun Fair, Indoor Volleyball, Basketball league, Future Braves Flag Football, Adult Slow Pitch Softball, Bowling, and Archery.

Cherokee is a great town to raise a family.  It is a safe town where kids can be kids. There are good schools in Cherokee.  The neigborhoods are lined with big trees.   CHildren can be seen riding there bikes or running around with friends.  To find out more about homes currently on the market, click here.

Population of Cherokee Iowa is about 5,000. 

Estimated median household income $34,100 (it was $31,240 in 2000).

Estimated median house value in 2005: $64,600.

Website for Cherokee Iowa:  http://www.cherokeeiowa.net

Website for the Chamber of Commerce: http://www.cherokeeiowachamber.com

How much, is too much?

At first I didn't know what to blog about this week.  But the other day I read on Active Rain about an agent who got a call from another agent.  This agent was from another office, she had buyers that wanted to see the other agent's listings.    So could she meet with these buyers and show them the house. 

Some of the responses put this down as being lazy.  Which is one logical explanation?  Then today I was talking with a friend who is trying to sell a house and never hears from her agent.  What it came down to was this agent had too many clients and was neglecting her duties to her clients.  Does anyone say "no" to a potential client and refer them?  Or are some so greedy that the keep piling their responsibilities higher and higher.  I am still in my first year and don't have this problem of too many clients.  I like to work hard but I sure hope I know when to say enough.  All work and no play will make Michele a very dull girl.  Life is too short not to enjoy it.   

Click here to check out Michele's website.  It nothing fancy but please drop by. 

What you get for your dollar in Sioux City real estate.

Part of my motive for doing this is that I read somewhere that "why would anyone want to retire in the Midwest".  Coming from California, I know many, once hitting retirement could not afford to stay in that state.  I have run across more and more that are thinking of going back to the state of their parents or grandparents.  Where the cost of living is lower, which in turns stretches their dollar.  Some retiree's say that this allows them to do some traveling during the winter months. 

My other reason for putting this information out there for people to read is general information.  I know before moving I do a lot of research into my future town.  I look up: cost of living, retail stores, grocery stores, hospitals, things to do, restaurants, and other information.  There are websites out there for you to compare your current town with your new one.  I will list a few at the bottom of this page. 

My first house here in Sioux City, Iowa was on 1.45 acres, out in the country, and the house is about 1800 square feet.  When friends and family would come and visit they were always amazed at what we got for the price we paid.  You also have to know that my family and friends at that time lived in southern California.  Many of whom have left the state just before retiring or shortly afterwards.  For me I do miss the beach, and the nice weather.  I do not miss the traffic, crime, abundance of people and trying to afford to live in a good neighborhood.  Now as a single parent there is no way I could go back.  It was hard getting used to the snow and the cold but as time went on I do not mind it so much.  Snow days are a day to relax, catch up on reading and fiddling around the house.  I have come to enjoy the days being stuck at home.  Though being snowed in doesn't happen too often.   I would also have to say the people here are friendly.  It reminds me of the way California used to be.  I know a few would give me grief on this but I found as the years went by southern Californians talked less with their neighbors. 

Here are some homes that will give you an idea what your money buys you.  I put the estimated value of the home and 2008 property tax information. These homes are in Sioux City.  For homes currently on the market in Sioux City and surrounding towns, click here.

This home is worth around $500,000.00, 5 bedrooms, 5 baths and 5000 square feet on .874 acres.  Tax $9408.

This home is worth around $300,000.00, 5 bedrooms, 5 baths and 4600 square feet on 10 acres.  Tax $6285.  This home is located in a very beautiful area with rolling green hills.

This home is worth around $220,500.00, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and 3200 square feet on .40 acres.  Tax $3872.  This home is located in a great neighborhood.

This home is worth around $150,000, 5 bedrooms,  3 baths and 2000 square feet on .25 acres. Tax $2632.

http://www.bestplaces.net/col

http://www.relocationessentials.com

LeMars, Iowa a great place to live.

Welcome to Le Mars, Iowa - "The Ice Cream Capital of the World".  LeMars is located in North West Iowa in Plymouth County.  Le Mars is 25 miles north of Sioux City, 85 miles southeast of Sioux Falls, 120 miles north of Omaha and 205 miles west of Des Moines. U.S. Highway 75 along with state highways 3 and 60 offer an excellent transportation network to nearby interstates as well as venues such as the Iowa Great Lakes. Le Mars features a municipal airport with a 4000 foot runway.

They also have many quality hotels, attractions, restaurants, and shopping opportunities for you to experience.

Estimated population in July 2006: 9,363.

Estimated median household income in 2005: $42,400.

Estimated median house value in 2005: $109,700.  The average price of a home currently on the market is $160,150.00.  For more information on homes currently on the market in LeMars Iowa, click here.

Education

Attractions

Cleveland Castle:  Features a community constructed playground, lighted skating rink, picnic shelter with grills, four horseshoe pits and two basketball courts.

Hillview Recreation Area:  Plymouth County's largest county park. Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, cross country skiing, snow tubing, picnicking; prairies and forests.  Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. daily - year round

Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitor Center features museum, theater exhibits, ice cream parlor, gift shop, Big Apple Bagels and Star Hardees® Restaurant. Fun, educational and lots of ice cream - there's something for everyone! Visitor Center museum tour is self-guided, but guided tours are available for large groups (20 or more) upon request.
Museum admission: $3 Adults, $1 Youth ages 5 - 12, Children 4 and under are free
Phone: 712-546-4090
Hours: Winter (October 1-April 30) Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Closed Sunday and Monday.  Summer (May1-September 30) Monday - Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday: Noon - 4 p.m.

Le Mars Art Center:  View pieces from the Arts Center's permanent collection, as well as special displays housed in the historic Carnegie Library. Also see select signatures from Le Mars Autograph Collection featuring items collected by Don Mitchell.

Le Mars Community Theater:  To promote and enhance the cultural experience of the Le Mars Community area by staging quality drama/musical productions.

Plymouth County Historical Museum:  This museum was established in 1965 to preserve and conserve the history of Plymouth County and Le Mars for visitors and future generations.

Plymouth County Fair:  Plymouth County Fairgrounds.  Features the Historic Pioneer Village and Round Barn as well as the Plymouth County Fair every July.

Places to eat

Archie's Wayside,  Burrito Factory, Lally's Eastside Café, Pizza Hut, Pizza Ranch, Mr. P's Pizza and Sports Grill
Bamboo Village, Big Apple Bagels Bakery & Café, Bob's Drive-In, China Buffet, Family Table of Le Mars, Godfathers Pizza, Jerry's Pizza, The Sanctuary, J & J Café, and 4 Brothers Bar & Grill.  There are also fast food restaurants in LeMars.  There is something for everyone.

http://www.lemarsiowa.com/