Articles Tagged "Webster Groves MO"

From the perfect morning pick-me-up to the ideal place to unwind after work, the coffee shops of the St. Louis area have something for everyone. The best coffee shops offer more than just your favorite drinks by fostering a sense of community, hosting fun special events, and making everyone who stops by feel like a regular. Our real estate agents have the delicious details on 6 one-of-a-kind coffee shops that you'll love visiting around St. Louis.

• The Wagamama – 5836-38 Macklind Ave., St. Louis, MO 63109
  The first coffee shop of its kind in St. Louis, The Wagamama is a dog-friendly coffee shop located near St. Louis homes for sale that allows you to bring well-behaved four-legged friends into the shop while you enjoy a great cup of coffee. Savor some delicious coffee in the indoor seating area, on the outdoor patio, or in the off-leash Barkyard, where both you and your pup can make some new friends.

• underGROUNDS Espresso Bar – 120 W. Front St., Washington, MO 63090
  With small-batch coffees and ingredients sourced mostly from local farmers markets, underGROUNDS Espresso Bar is your source for outstanding coffee near Washington homes for sale. Try an espresso flight to sample the best that this neighborhood coffee shop has to offer, and enjoy delicious, sweet treats from a variety of outstanding local vendors.

• Latte Lounge – 2190 N. Waterford Dr., Florrisant, MO 63033
  For the true coffee connoisseur, it's tough to top the experience at the Latte Lounge. This little shop, located near Florrisant homes for sale, offers a variety of ways to enjoy top-quality coffee. Try a coffee flight to sample five of your favorite latte varieties in one sitting, or order a split cup drink for easy sipping of two different lattes. With a mix of variety and quality, this shop has quickly established itself as a local favorite.

• Catalyst Coffee Bar – 1223 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103
  Operated in collaboration with Art St. Louis, a local non-profit dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists and bringing beauty to St. Louis communities, Catalyst Coffee Bar is so much more than just a wonderful place to enjoy your favorite coffees. It's a space where local artists and community members can build connections, get to know the vibrant St. Louis arts scene, and enjoy a carefully curated selection of coffee that always features something new to try.

• Rise Coffee – 4176 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110
  Founded in 2013 as both a community gathering space and coffee shop, Rise Coffee has grown into a St. Louis favorite. A newly added outdoor patio space provides a new way to enjoy a great cup of coffee and listen to live performances from local musicians every weekend. There's also a full breakfast, lunch, and brunch menu when you're hungry.

• Maypop Coffee & Garden Shop – 803 Marshall Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119
  Coffee, gardening, great people... what's not to love? Maypop Coffee & Garden Shop blends those passions into one unique experience, all located close to Webster Groves homes for sale. The coffee shop features all of your favorite specialty drinks and baked goods from sustainable, local bakeries. While you're there, be sure to check out the greenhouse, which features a trendy selection of plants that can brighten any garden.

On the hunt for the perfect St. Louis home near all of your favorite coffee shops and dining destinations? Our local real estate team has you covered. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the St. Louis, MO area.

As we return to the workplace and travel becomes more frequent, many of us will be faced with the dilemma of pet care. If you are considering one of our St. Louis homes for sale, you are probably looking at a new community. You might not know your neighbors well enough to ask them to look after your dog. A kennel may work once in a while, and pet daycare could be an option. But our real estate agents suggest you consider another solution: a pet sitter who can come to your home. But where do you begin? These simple tips can get you started:

1. Use Reputable Resources
   Some of the trade associations that can help you initiate your search are The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), Pet Sitters International, and Fetch! Pet Care. Each offers a locator listing professionals in your area. Once you have located sitters you want to interview, check their references and reviews. When reviewing comments, make sure there is a "verified stay" indicator to ensure they were written by actual customers.
   
   
2. Select Bonded and Insured Sitters
   These designations don't just mean that you are protected in case of loss. They mean that the sitter has invested in a layer of trust between them and their customers, assuring quality and the integrity of the person entering your home when you are not present. Consider also a criminal background check and proof of sufficient training to perform services well. 
   
   
3. Arrange for Introductions
   It's important that you feel confident in the person that will be providing care. You'll want to watch the sitter interact with your pet. Dogs and cats are automatically drawn to some people and are equally repelled by others. You'll want to make sure that your pets are comfortable with the sitter and do not exhibit fear or nervousness around them. Make sure you allow time for them to meet and greet each other appropriately so that the sitter has the opportunity to comfort the pet. If your pet is not frequently socialized, this could take a little time for them to develop a rapport. 
   
   
4. Thoroughly Discuss Expectations
   Let the sitter know what services you expect and with what frequency. If you expect the pet to be walked, brushed, taken to dog parks or other activities or services, be sure to let the sitter know and obtain a formal agreement. It's important that they can commit the time and energy to meet your expectations. Include start and end times for each session. If there are activities you don't want them to do, be clear in your instructions. Make sure the sitter is aware of any dietary restrictions such as treats versus no treats or specific brands that should be avoided. 
   
   
5. Plan for Emergencies
   Prominently display contact information for you, emergency veterinary services, pet insurance information, and a secondary contact. Maintain a medical history for the pet in case the sitter must seek vet care in your absence. Make sure that you are able to reach the sitter via phone or email every day you are away. Agree upon a backup plan for any emergency that could arise, including a substitute sitter in case the regular sitter is unable to fulfill the agreement. 

If a new neighborhood is in your future, contact us. Our real estate professionals will be happy to help you find the perfect home for you and your family, including the furry members.  

Summer might mean a break from school, but it doesn't mean learning has to stop. Our real estate agents share some great events and activities around St. Louis where your kids can keep the fun and the learning going all summer long.

1. Camp Gator - Krekel Civic Center, 305 Civic Park Dr., O'Fallon, MO 63366
   While kids would probably love it if there were an actual alligator in attendance, that's about the only thing they won't find at Camp Gator. The one-week sessions for elementary- and middle-schoolers, which run through August 13, are chock-full of activities such as crafts, games, cooking, and swimming. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., with before- and after-care available. Fees per child are $125 for residents near O'Fallon homes for sale and $139 for non-residents.
   
   
2. Camp Kennedy - Kennedy Recreational Complex, 6050 Wells Ave., St. Louis, MO 63128
   Baseball and swimming are summer traditions around St. Louis homes for sale. Kids can enjoy both at Camp Kennedy, held at the impressive recreational complex of the same name. Nature programs maximize time spent outdoors as kids learn more about the world in which they live. A special event cookout, another warm-weather favorite, is the highlight of the week. One-week sessions for kids ages 5-12 are scheduled through August 6. Price is $80 per child, with Sunrise/Late Day Club memberships available for an additional fee. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., and everyone is asked to bring a non-perishable lunch, snack, and beverage each day.
   
   
3. Play-Well TEKnologies Summer Camp - The Pavilion at Lemay, 305 Gregg Rd., St. Louis, MO 63125
   When you're a kid, there's nothing better than LEGO®, unless you combine it with Pokémon. Play-Well TEKnologies Summer Camp provides tens of thousands of LEGO® parts that kids can use to design and build Poké balls and other game-related objects. Your kids will have so much fun that they won't even realize they're learning useful engineering concepts. The camp, geared toward kids ages 5-9, is scheduled for July 12 through July 16 from 9 a.m. - noon. The fee per camper is $165.
   
   
4. Abra-Kid-Abra Summer Camp - 803 Lafayette Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119
   What kid isn't spellbound watching a magician make objects disappear and reappear? They'll be ready to take center stage themselves after Abra-Kid-Abra Summer Camp. Week-long camps, taking place through August 6, feature different themes such as Math-E-Magic, where the tricks revolve around the power of numbers. At the end of the week, campers show off their new skills at a show for parents. Camps are also held at The Pavilion at Lemay and St. Louis Community College-Meramec, with all locations just minutes from Webster Groves homes for sale. Visit Abra-Kid-Abra's website for schedule and prices.
   
   
5. COCA Summer Arts Camp - Center of Creative Arts, 6880 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO 63130
   When kids can express themselves creatively, it boosts their confidence and self-esteem. COCA Summer Arts Camp offers an incredible variety of week-long programs through August 20. Campers from ages 3-18 can explore interests including singing, dancing, painting, filmmaking, fashion design, and just about any artistic pursuit that captures their imagination. Visit the website for a full listing of camp themes and prices.
   
   
6. Four Rivers YMCA Summer Day Camp - 400 Grand Ave., Washington, MO 63090
   No matter what your kids are interested in they are sure to enjoy the Summer Day Camp offered by the Gateway Region YMCA. Activities range from arts and crafts, nature activities, swimming, and more. Plus, each week has its own special theme and the convenient location is close to many Washington homes for sale. Learn more about registering for this day camp on the Gateway Region YMCA website.

Planning a summer change of address around St. Louis? Whether you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Coldwell Banker Premier Group and let us handle the tough stuff. 

When purchasing a home, ordering a home inspection is an essential item to add to your to-do list. Our real estate agents know that a home inspection is vital for revealing major and minor issues with a home. While a home inspection will cost you, detecting issues now can help you save money in the long run and give you peace of mind about the property you are buying. Here are some home issues detected by a home inspection. 

1. Problems with the Grading
   If the grading of the home's lot isn't scaled correctly, this can cause water to flow towards your home. Your foundation and crawlspace may have excessive levels of moisture; this can cause the frame of your home to rot or lead to the formation of mold. The placement of the windows and doors can also shift, eventually causing the home to appear uneven. 

2. Issues with the Roof
   A home's roof is a common source of issues during a home inspection. Since the roof covers such a large surface area, it's easy for a shingle or two to be damaged during a storm. This can allow water to seep in and damage the home's underlayment or ceiling. Or, the roof itself may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Your home inspector will also examine the components around the roof, like the gutters. It's common for gutters to be clogged and require cleaning. Or, a downspout might not be long enough to properly re-direct water away from your home. 

3. Trouble with the Windows
   Many home inspections reveal problems in and around the windows. If the windows are older, the problem may be that they aren't very energy efficient. Or, the windows can have cracks around them that need to be sealed. Problems with the windows can raise the home's heating and cooling costs and impact the air quality. St. Louis homes for sale with new, energy-efficient windows will have lower energy bills than those with older components. 

4. Complications with the Plumbing
   During the inspection, your inspector will run the faucets and examine the pipes for signs of a leak. They'll also see that the drains are draining correctly. A home's plumbing system is fairly comprehensive, making plumbing issues extremely prevalent. 

5. Defects in the Home's Exterior
   A home's exterior is another common source of issues detected in a home inspection. Wood homes must be closely examined for signs of rot and mildew. Vinyl siding homes may have sections that are damaged and require replacement. Stucco must be correctly installed, or it will present an opportunity for moisture to enter the home. 

6. Unauthorized Additions
   Many cities require a permit for home additions and certain renovations. These projects must also be completed according to the local building code, or the home will potentially have illegal modifications. Fixing illegal improvements is expensive and time-consuming. An inspector will look for signs of shoddy work and discrepancies among the home's construction. 

Are you ready to start shopping for your next home? Contact us today to get started!

While the cold winter months are ideal for cozying up on the couch, sometimes it feels good to be productive. A little home maintenance will also ensure your home looks its best if you list it among the St. Louis market and surrounding area. Whether your home is in St. Louis County, Franklin County, or even further north in St. Charles County, our agents encourage you to work on these home improvement projects this winter. 

1. Declutter and Organize
   Winter is a perfect time to declutter and organize your belongings. You likely have some new holiday gifts that you need to make room for, and there's no better way to start the New Year than with an organized space.
   
   You can either tackle one room at a time, or you may declutter categories of stuff. For example, you might declutter all the clothing in your home or all your paperwork and mementos. Get rid of anything you no longer use, that you have too much, or that you haven't used in more than a year (aside from seasonal items).
   
   Once you know what you're left with, you can organize your belongings with containers, shelves, rods, and hooks. Our real estate agents know that a well-organized home also looks larger and more appealing to potential buyers. 

2. Replace Old Hardware
   Old hardware, like your door hinges, cabinet knobs, doorknobs, and door levels, can quickly make your space look dated. Give your home an instant facelift by replacing these items. You can replace most old hardware with a screwdriver, drill, screws, and wood putty. 

3. Service Your Ceiling Fans
   Did you know that you need to change the direction of your ceiling fans during the winter months? When the weather is cold, you want your ceiling fans to operate in a clockwise direction, so it pushes warm air down. You can adjust your ceiling fan's direction by using the direction switch on your fan's motor housing.
   
   While you're changing your fans' directions, give them a thorough dusting. Dust the fan blades with a microfiber cloth or duster that will prevent the dust from scattering. Wipe down the fan pulls with a damp cloth. 

4. Repair Any Wall Blemishes and Touch Up Your Paint
   If you've got some areas with scrapes or holes, winter is a fantastic time to patch these blemishes and touch up the paint. You'll be spending a lot of time indoors, and you want your home to look as inviting as possible.
   
   You can fix most small wall defects with a layer or two of spackling compound. Once it dries, sand the area smooth and add a fresh coat of paint.

5. Change the Batteries in Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   Keep your family safe by changing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Once the units have fresh batteries, test them to make sure they're working properly. If necessary, install additional detectors in your home.
   
   You should have a smoke detector in each bedroom, in the hall outside every sleeping area, and on each level of your home. There should be a carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home and in your garage. 

Ready to explore new properties for your family? Contact us today!

With 2021 fast approaching, we're excited to see what trends will catch on in the new year. With so many people spending extra time on home projects in 2020, we're expecting even more homeowners to take on home improvement projects to make their home extra special for themselves or to get it ready to list. Our real estate agents were so inspired by these St. Louis homes for sale, they decided to put together a list of their predictions for what trends you can expect to see more of in 2021. 

1. Coastal Themes
   Tranquility is going to be a very popular theme in 2021, especially considering the year we had. Many of us were forced to skip our beach vacations in 2020, so it wouldn't be surprising to see subtle coastal design themes pop-up in homes this year. Whether it's tropical leaves or flowers or the right mix of calming aquas and blues, pay attention to calming coastal design trends in 2021. This is a great option for those who love the beach and are looking to personalize their home office. 
   
   
2. Rustic Vogue
   For those who like a charming look mixed with a bit of upscale character, rustic vogue is definitely going to be the design trend for you. This look is usually best in homes that already have some rustic character, such as old doors or original floorboards. Simply add some upscale furniture, neutral colors, and some bright statement pieces to create that upscale cottage feel. To achieve this look, be sure to check out thrift stores for that one-of-a-kind look!
   
   
3. Pure Vintage
   Vintage designs and timeless looks will always be in style. Working antique furniture or pieces of architectural salvage into your living space is a great way to create a classic look. They really don't make furniture like they used to, so repurposing old pieces can really make a statement in your home.
   
   
4. Textured Walls
   We expect to see textured walls continue to increase in popularity next year. Stone, marble, and wooden beams all significantly impact perception and can really add a classy touch to any room. Textured walls change the ambiance of the room in a big way. Best of all, they're generally easy to install and can hide cracks, dents, and holes in your drywall.
   
   
5. Houseplants
   Get ready to step up your house plant game in 2021 because they're coming back in a big way. Retro 1970's hangers, unique succulents, and big blooms -- adding some green into your living space can definitely liven things up. They can also go a long way towards boosting your mood. Just make sure you buy plants that require little maintenance and are hard to kill.

Looking for a new home in the area for you to try new home improvement projects on in 2021? Contact us today!