4 Most Expensive Homes For Sale In St. Charles County MO

Check out these four most expensive homes currently on the market in St. Charles County, along with the luxurious amenities they have to offer.  

For more information and to view more pictures of the interior and exterior of these properties, just click on the addresses.

Naturally, when you're ready to personally tour any of the homes, just call JUDY WROZIER at (314) 348-4033.  But, be prepared....you'll have to prove you can afford it, just to enter the door!

1938 Hepperman Rd. - Wentzville - $770,000

Just over one year old, this farmhouse ranch sits on 3 acres in unincorporated St. Charles County.  With 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage, this home features a shiplapped fireplace and fabulous custom master closet with access to laundry.  More living space in the finished walkout lower level.  (Listed by Berkshire Hathaway)

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1020 Sycamore Creek Dr. - New Melle - $800,000

Need lots of garage space?  This 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath two story home has 6 garage spaces!  This home, on a 1 acre lot, offers so much living space with a finished walkout lower level.  The primary suite is located on the main level.  (Listed by CopperKey)

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40 Windcastle Place - St. Charles 63304 - $1,495,000

This elegant, traditional 1.5 story home has over 7,000 square feet of living space!  With 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 2 half baths this home features all kinds of amenities for entertaining.  Don't miss the newer inground pool.  (Listed by Coldwell Banker-Gundaker)

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7 Hillside Ct. - Wentzville - $20,000,000

This property has it all...and comes with a price!  With almost 16,000 square feet of living space, this English Country Estate sits on 20 acres and features stables, a sports field, playground, a pool with a lazy river and swim-up bar, and a waterfall grotto.  The home features 7 bedrooms (two primary suites), 10 full baths and 3 half baths.  You can never have too many fireplaces...and this home has 8!  There are way too many features to list here.  Truly the ultimate in luxury homes!  (Listed by Coldwell Banker-Gundaker)

Buyers A Home Seller Should Avoid

Once you have your home up for sale, it's helpful to know the type of buyers you're dealing with.  Essentially, buyers fall into one of three categories:

1.    Buyers searching for a dream home.

2.    Buyers looking for a great home at a fair price.

3.    Buyers scouring for the next bargain.

"Dream" home shoppers will most likely be willing to pay full price if they find a property they want.  "Great" home searchers probably aren't going to pay full price, but will be more likely to negotiate.  "Bargain" hunters thrive on finding the best price and may be looking for a fixer-upper.

If your home is well-kept and priced correctly, you probably won't encounter the bargain hunter.  Instead, you may come across three types of buyers among "dream" home and "great" home shoppers that aren't going to serve your bottom line.  These are the buyers you may want to avoid.

1.    Zero Percent Down Buyer

        As you and your Realtor know, it's smart to use recent comparable sales to help determine the market value of your home.  However, there are times when the market value is higher than the bank's appraised value.  Adding a buyer putting no money down to that scenario increases the chances they won't qualify for a loan.  In the end, you will have taken your home off the market and missed out on the opportunity to entice a stronger buyer, only to end up having to put your home back on the market.

2.    The Bully Buyer

        Nobody likes a bully and you're not going to like this type of buyer either.  The bully buyer will inundate you with a list of things that are wrong with the house -- all while presenting an offer.  Also, with this type of buyer, you can expect the inspection process to be a nightmare.  If you detect a bully, move on.  The bully approach is a prelude to endless negotiations with their trying to obtain concessions by nitpicking every aspect of the transaction.

3.    The Sight-Unseen Buyer

        It's not unheard of to get an offer from someone who has only seen photos of your house.  Beware that this type of buyer may have a trick up his/her sleeve.  Most home buyers will not purchase a house without seeing it.  Instead, this buyer might want your house off the market so they can make a decision later.

7 Upgrades That Maximize Your Home's Resale Value

Housing prices are surging to new heights in our area, so you might be considering selling your house and putting some money in your pocket.  No matter if you want to sell or just build equity, here are some improvements that can boost your home's value and ensure you get the best price for your property.

Extra Space

Having plenty of livable space in your home is one of the main selling features in real estate.  Homes are usually priced and valued according to livable square footage available, so the more you have, the better.  A great idea is to add a teen hangout or a mother-in-law suite.  This upgrade will set you apart from the competition when it's time to list your property.

Mini Kitchen Remodel

While deluxe, professional kitchens might be attractive for luxury home buyers, such an upgrade might be overkill with the average buyer.  Most people don't really need a commercial-grade stove with six burners and an expensive vent, but everyone needs a good layout and plenty of storage space.

You can work on upgrading your kitchen layout...adding modern appliances and finishing your cabinets...these are all very cost-effective remodels you can do yourself with only a tutorial and a few tools.  Don't forget to install some new lighting fixtures.

Energy Efficient Upgrades

Modern buyers are into home features that improve energy and water efficiency.  Efficiency improvement costs need not be extravagant.  Investing in a smart thermostat won't set your budget back and will provide future users with a more effective and practical way to save money and resources.

When you invest in such home tech improvements, you will create a strong selling point while improving your property's comfort, functionality, convenience and eco-friendliness.  Other ways you can improve the efficiency of your home is to replace old windows with new, energy-efficient ones, ditch old appliances for Energy Star models, switch to LED lighting, and boos insulation on your outside walls.

Hardwood Floors

It's easy to see the appeal of hardwood floors.  They last for a long time, add richness to any decor and can withstand the abuse of pets, kids, and aggressive foot traffic.  Plus, they are easy to clean and maintain.  If your current wood flooring has seen better days, it will be worth the time and money you invest to refinish them, as you can recoup 100% of the cost. If you replace carpeting or other type of flooring besides hardwood and install new hardwood, your Return On Investment will be 70%-80%.

Fresh Paint

Paint is magic for many reasons:  It can instantly upgrade both the interior and exterior of your home and do so for a very low price.  Even dated surfaces can look fresh and new with only a coat of paint.

Deck or Patio

Right now, people are willing to spend a lot of money on outdoor features that allow them to spend time outside.  So, make sure to deck or patio area are pristine.

New Front Door

Replacing your front door can also work wonders for your home's value.  If you have an old ugly door, replace it with something like solid mahogany and you'll achieve cost-effective, yet luxurious results.

Want to go a step further?  Tackle your outdated garage doors with something modern for an extra touch of curb appeal.

If you provide buyers with something move-in ready, you'll definitely achieve a good price, so even minor investments will help get a home sold more quickly and result in two satisfied parties.

Is Listing Your Home During COVID a Good Idea?

 

It’s the time of year when people are ready for a new beginning and planning big life changes.

Normally.

Right now, the COVID-19 pandemic has lead to government orders that range from social distancing to sheltering in place, which has changed life as we know it. When the streets are empty and you haven’t even seen your neighbors in weeks, a big question for would-be sellers remains: Should I even bother to list my house for sale? Here are the pros and cons to consider in these unusual times.

Pro: Right now, mortgage rates are very low.

In an effort to stimulate the economy, mortgage rates dropped to new lows. This is good news for potential buyers who were on the hunt before the pandemic hit and might help them continue to feel confident about a home purchase. For sellers, this also could mean that the buyers who do make offers are the most serious about making a purchase.

Pro: There’s more certainty now than there is about the future.

Economic reports are enough to make anyone feel anxious. However, what we know right now is that with the stimulus package coming, many are still working (albeit remotely) and that social distancing measures will be in place for at least the next month. Things could get better, or they could get worse and lead to further restrictions (or trigger a recession). Delaying your home sale runs the risk of missing the window and ending up having to list when the market is down.

Pro: Open Houses Are Available Virtually.

Virtual showings may be a great option for sellers and buyers who are serious about social distancing. An excellent agent will be able to make your home’s virtual presence as compelling as it is in-person. Whether it’s via FaceTime, a 3D virtual tour, or a Facebook Watch Party, a virtual open house may just be the perfect answer to showing off your home during the COVID19 crisis. Not only is it the safer option during this time, but it can also be more convenient for those not being able to make the short window that open houses typically offer. 

Con: You’ll have to find a new place to live.

You’ll have the same issues facing your potential buyer, because you’ll be a potential buyer, too. Even if you do line up a new home, there are possible delays that might necessitate temporary which was much easier to find pre-COVID than it will be right now. Then, there’s the actual practical considerations of moving: Will there be movers available to help you out? However, there is a silver lining:  Some rental owners may be inclined to offer significant rental discounts as their short and long term incomes have also been affected.

The bottom line is that putting your home on the market right now is a calculated risk where the need to sell outweighs any anxiety you may feel about how COVID is affecting the market. We find creative ways to keep your home sale running smoothly (and safely, observing all precautions). 

While we tried to cover all of the pros and cons of listing your home during the COVID-19 pandemic, there might be information relevant to your market that can further affect your potential sale. Whether you need a sounding board or advice on how the market is adapting in real-time, we’re here to listen to any and all of your concerns.

 

8 Things You Should Do Before Moving Into A New House

 Moving into a new house?  Your task list doesn't end once you pack up your current home.  There's a few more things you're going to want to do before you get in and start living it up.

Change the Locks

It doesn't make you paranoid to want new locks on the exterior doors to your home.  It makes you smart!  Who knows how many people were given keys to what is now your new home?  You could call a locksmith to come to the house to re-key the locks or get a nice update plus peach of mind by replacing the the whole hardware.

Don't forget to change your garage door opener code, too.

Do an In-Depth Tour of the House

Identify where the water and gas shut-off valves are.  How about the electrical box and water heater?  Do you know how to use your sprinkler system?  Familiarizing yourself with all the ins and outs of the house and making sure key members of the household are also aware can help avoid disasters.

Seal Off Rooms You Won't Be Using Right Away

Between moving costs, new furniture, any renovations needed, and the cost of turning on all your utilities, you're probably going to want to save a few dollars where you can.  Sealing off rooms you won't be using for a while can help lower your heating and cooling costs.

Meet Your Neighbors

Your neighbors may be planning to come by once they see you're settled in, but think about beating them to it.  You might make a new best friend or find one for your kids.  Being friendly from the get-go established good will.

Join NEXTDOOR

Log on the Nextdoor.com to find your community site.  If you need a babysitter, a handyman, or a recommendation for the best Chinese restaurant in your area, Nextdoor will help you find it.

Clean Your Carpets

A thorough cleaning of the home should have been done when the sellers were moving out, but unless specific cleaning tasks were called out in the contract, the house may not be as spic-n-span as you want.

Even if the house looks clean when you move in, they may have skipped getting the carpets professionally cleaned.  A good cleaning can extend the life of the carpets, improve air quality, and remove allergens.

Wipe Out Drawers and Cabinets

This is another often ignored task and one that could be responsible for leaving germs and crumbs behind.

Change Your Smoke Detector Batteries

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that smoke detector batteries get changed twice a year.  Since you probably won't know when the last time this was done, it's best to change them when you move in.

Hopefully this helpful tips will prove useful to you when you decide to purchase a new home.  When you're ready to make a move, don't hesitate to contact us.  We'll provide with helpful tips to prepare your home to go on the market.

How To Buy A Luxury Home

     When it comes to buying a luxury home, there's more than just a high price and somewhat unique architecture.  Purchasing a high-end property is a completely different process than buying a middle-priced home.

     Here are a few tips if you are thinking of buying a luxury home.

Learn Where To Search

     Unlike homes in lower price ranges, luxury properties often go unlisted to protect the seller's privacy.  That's why it is important to use your Realtor's personal connections, as she or her office mates, may have off-market luxury listings.  You won't find these listings in the Internet.  Check with us to find out inside information about higher-end properties before they hit the market.

Proper Expertise

     As a real estate agent, I will not only find the property, but, as an expert, will be able to determine the market value of the high-end property.  Typically, the price of a home is relatively easy to evaluate by comparing it to similar properties in the area.  However, many times there will be no similar properties in the area.  Moreover, since luxury homes are more or less unique, they can't be compared to anything at all.  That's why you need an expert to carefully inspect the property, as it will have special amenities such as a pool, ponds, fountains, outdoor fireplaces, landscape lighting, professional surveillance and security systems, and so much more.

Financing

     According to a Coldwell Banker study 10 years ago, only 31% of luxury home buyers paid cash for their high-end property.  It's normal to use a loan for the purchase, but there are a few things you should know.  The loan approval process will take longer...45-60 days to secure...and you will be required to provide a lot of detailed documentation.

Understanding the Market

    There will always be a market for luxury property and some local areas are experiencing significant growth.  Considering the fact we are still experiencing the financial whirlwind going on due to the pandemic, luxury markets have heated up.  One reason for this, of course, is the rule of supply and demand and, in general, the supply of higher priced homes is limited.

     If a luxury home is in your future, you may want to start planning now.  To search for luxury homes for sale at your leisure, just go to:  PoshSTLHomes.com 

     If you would be interested in knowing of any off-market luxury homes, just contact me.

4 Questions To Help You Decide Whether To Sell Your Home

Do you find yourself dreaming about a new home?  If you think it could be time to move to a new neighborhood, ask yourself these four questions to determine it it's time to take the leap:

1.     How happy are you with your current home?

If you're not feeling the love when you walk through the door, it may be time to start exploring available homes on the market.  Your home is your castle and should make you feel comfortable and at ease...not stressed and longing for something else.

2.     Do you love your neighborhood and schools?

A good neighborhood, strong school district, and neighbors you enjoy should be important to you.  There are plenty of homes on the market in fabulous neighborhoods that pride themselves on safety and community.  Give me a call to find out more.

3.     Do you have too little or too much home?

If the size of your family has changed recently, you may be left with a home that's too small or too large.  Let's find a home that's just right.  Whether you're looking to downsize or move up the ladder, there are plenty of options to choose from.

4.     Is it time to buy?

If you think it's time to make a move, give Judy Wrozier - Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker a call to guarantee you find a home that hits all the right notes.

Buying Your Dream Home Later In Life

Most homebuyers have a "dream house" that includes everything they want...whether it's a new kitchen, open floor plan, main floor master suite, outside kitchen...or all that and more.

So, how can you buy your dream house, whether you're in your 40's, 50's, or 60's?

The answer might be as simple as just deciding to do it.  People generally cannot afford their dream house in their 20's and 30's,  By the time they are in their 40's and 50's, they've got the money.

Newer, Smaller, Better

Some buyers move out of a costly or large home into a dream home that better fits their needs in terms of design, finished, and amenities.  The new home might offer an updated kitchen, open floor plan, main level master suite, new flooring...all with a bit less square footage.

Saying "NO" to Remodeling

The alternative to buying your dream home is trying to remodel your current house to be what you really want.  This doesn't appeal to many current homeowners.  Sometimes, a 20 year old home just starts to "feel old".  Rather than renovating and upgrading it, a lot of people take the easier route and buy something new.

The remodeling industry studies have shown that very few remodeling projects recoup their full value at the time of resale.  Most homeowners take a loss on their improvements when they sell.

The Big Decision

Despite the allure of their dream home, some buyers hesitate because they're not ready to make the transition or only one spouse is ready.  Once an unwilling partner can emotionally detach from the current home, a dream home can be in their future.

Just What Is A Luxury Home?

Price alone does not distinguish that luxury status.  It is location, property entry, architecture, decor, decadent amenities, entertainment capability, lovely grounds and myriad of other details that help a home stand out from the ordinary.

A supersized McMansion does not qualify as a luxury home, unless it has the requisite extras, superior location and a view...perhaps.

As discerning and honest luxury real estate professionals, we believe we know a luxury home when we see it...especially when the property has all the markings of luxury, location, and panache.

Luxury home buyers want real estate representation that provides, in order of preference:

• 86% - Help in finding a luxury home
• 56% - Help in managing the transaction
• 43% - Expert negotiation counsel
• 34% - Advise on purchasing a luxury home
• 28% - Assistance with paperwork
• 13% - Help understanding the process
•   9% - Help locating jumbo financing

Other tidbits...

• The average down payment for the luxury home buyer is 33.6%.
• The typical luxury home buyer spends 11 weeks searching for a home prior to purchase.
• Luxury home buyers, on average, look at 12 homes before making a final decision to buy.
• The typical luxury home buyer seeks a residence with a minimum of 3500-4000 square feet, at least 4-5 bedrooms, and a minimum of 3-4 bathrooms.

Ready to buy a luxury home in the St. Louis metropolitan area?  Give us a call at (314) 348-4033 to get started.  We have many fabulous luxury properties getting ready to hit the market.

If you have an exceptional home you would like to sell, contact us at (314) 348-4033 for a  FREE home evaluation to find out if your home will qualify as a coveted PREMIER GROUP  "Signature Home" ... the luxury standard in the St. Louis area.

What Makes a Home a Good Buy?

There is no perfect home, but some homes are more ideal for your household than others.  When you begin looking for your next home, carefully consider these four criteria...price, features, location and condition.  The closer you to get to meeting all four criteria, the better your chances are of making a good buy.

PRICE

In any market, price has to come first.  To determine what you can comfortably afford, take to your Realtor.  She can recommend a lender who will prequalify you for a mortgage loan.  When you know how much you can spend, it will be easier to shop for homes within your price range.

FEATURES

The size of your family and your activities determine the features you will want in your next home.  The number of bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas are a matter of comfort and convenience.  You may want an extra bedroom for guests or a second master suite for parents.

If you work at home, you'll want a private home office or a computer nook.  You may want a playroom for the kids, a separate laundry area, and a fenced yard and covered patio or deck for entertaining.  Perhaps an eat-in kitchen is more important to you than a formal dining room.  You may even desire an outdoor kitchen for entertaining.

Think about your daily life from morning to bedtime and how your next home can make these activities more pleasant.  This should be your "must-have" list and will help you look at homes more objectively.

LOCATION

Some areas will always be more expensive to live in than others.  Neighborhoods that are well-kept tend to maintain higher home values.  Homes that are close to jobs, schools and shopping centers tend to sell for more money than homes without as much infrastructure.

What is the best home you can find in the area where you want to live?  If these homes are out of your price range, you can compromise...buy a smaller home or a home that needs lots of work in the best neighborhood you can afford.

CONDITION

Condition refers to the state of repair.  Does the home curb appeal?  Is it updated and well-maintained or does it need extensive and expensive remodeling.  Don't forget to consider any deferred maintenance, such as a roof that may need to be replaced soon.  Also, consider the design and functionality...is the kitchen too small and would you be able to afford to remodel it?  Look closely at repairs, cleanliness and room layout.

The one advantage of buying a home that needs updates and repairs is that these properties cost less than updated homes in the same neighborhood.



Be prepared to compromise.  Don't frustrate yourself or your family looking for the perfect home.  Sometimes the home of your dreams does not have to have every feature on your checklist, or it may be a bit further away from your favorite neighborhood, but you'll be happy if it has most of the criteria you want at the price you can afford.

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME: 4 WAYS TO MAKE HOUSE SHOPPING EASIER

House shopping can be a stressful experience.  In addition to looking for the perfect home, you need to get your financing in order.  Being prepared is the best way to make sure your house shopping goes easily and smoothly.

Start With Your Criteria
Before beginning your search of homes for sale, make two lists...features that you NEED in a home and then features you WANT in a home.  Your needs should be things that you are absolutely certain you have to have.  This will help you narrow down the housing search.  Your wants will give you guidance as to which properties you will view first.

Get Pre-Qualified
If you don't already have a pre-qualification from a bank or mortgage lender, you'll want to get this in order.  By having this pre-qualification, you will be able to put an offer in for a home quickly.  With the current state of the real estate market and the low inventory of homes for sale, offers happen quickly when a home appears on the market.  You want to be ready...you need that pre-qualification!

Hire a Realtor at the Beginning of Your Search
For a buyer, there is really no reason not to work with a real estate agent.  Most real estate agents charge a fee (around $300) for their services, which is paid at closing.  I'm proud to say that I and my company DO NOT charge any buyer fees.  Your Realtor will be able to assist you in finding a home and educate you on the home values in the areas you prefer.  She will also assist you through the entire process of submitting a contract, negotiate terms and price, inspections, and get you through escrow and closing.

Get In Your Car
When looking for a home, it may be helpful to get in your car and do a drive-around.  In addition to the MLS listings that your Realtor should be sending you, neighborhoods may have For Sale By Owner signs.  Your Realtor can assist you with this type of sale and get you a showing with the owner.


In general, your first step should be to find a real estate agent.  She will be able to guide you through the entire process and give you a realistic picture of your options.

To begin your house hunting process in the St. Louis/St. Charles area, just give me a call or text at (314) 348-4033 or email me at:

Judy.Wrozier@coldwellbanker.com