Kim Shortt of TW Shortt Realty - Service Above Self Always

When times do not call for the need to own a house or if one cannot commit themselves to owning a house, renting is always the number one choice for couples and even families. Owning a house during a time full of uncertainty can sometimes be a security ticket or it can be a dream gone wrong. Finding that perfect house used to be so hard before the age of the internet and you would have to go through several ads in the paper to find listings. Nowadays, there are wonderful real estate companies that take the pain out of finding a house and help take away the worry of finding one to temporarily call your own.

This is Kim Shortt of TW Shortt Realty. As the principal broker of property management for TW Shortt Realty, she has been in the business for 11 years.

With a friendly and warm voice, you can tell that she really makes the effort to ensure that her clients will be able to open up to her and share what kind of house they are looking to rent. In TW Shortt Realty, she claims that:

“Business has been pretty good in general; we have a lot of local people renting from us and we have military renting from us as well. It’s pretty steady for this area.”

Being exposed to the real estate business from childhood, her family has been in the business for around 30 years; it is safe to say that real estate knowledge is her forte. Believe it or not, Ms. Kim started out her career in banking for over 8 years before she finally decided that the world of real estate business would be where she would be at home. She can give you BAH rates for a specific year without batting an eye, she confesses that her biggest challenge on a daily basis would be, “trying to find something (house) in a school district that a family would need. Typically, they're looking for a house to rent based on a certain school district.”

When talking about what makes her real estate career a blessing, she proudly says that it would be the internet because “it makes everything so much easier for clients that it's basically a self-service.” Of course that doesn't mean that Ms. Kim will not be there to help potential clients through the entire process.  In fact, she states that if she did not find herself in real estate, she would still want a career in:

“Customer service, helping someone else, maybe the accounting end of finding a property or being able to balance their financial goals…something in the financial world.”

Even as a Realtor, her main focus is property management. TW Shortt Realty gets around 85% of their business from their website, word-of-mouth, Google, previous clients who have rented from their listings and from a military off-post housing network that they are a member of. Having technology on her side, makes it easier for the business to be available for customers with a click of a button at any time.

With deep thought, she says that there are not any major costs aside from small things when it comes to running the business. She also states that “property management” is the number one strength of TW Shortt Realty.

When asked what makes TW Shortt Realty different from other property management businesses in the area, she proudly states,

“It’s our level of commitment to our clients, our technology, and the fact that we have a lot of contacts in the area that we have built up over the years…everything just really runs smoothly when you have a lot of  advocates and people working on your side…you have a good service level.”

Some advice from Ms. Kim Shortt that anyone can use when it comes to starting any business or just in life in general is,

 “To get up every day, be happy about what you are doing, and treat people how you want to be treated.”

Make sure to check out rental properties with TW Shortt Realty if now is not the time to buy a house. To end this article, a quote from a young actress Beth Behrs: 

From http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/b/bethbehrs490874.html

Radcliff KY The Bookstore: Jerry Brown Loves His Community

Getting a chance to talk with someone who overflows with love for his community is hard to come by these days but if one had to chance upon a person - Mr. Jerry Brown of The Bookstore definitely fits the bill. Giving back to the community has always been in Mr. Brown's heart; he started the The Bookstore way back in 1976 and has been in operation ever since. The Bookstore started as a quaint combination of a Hallmark© store,  a gift store, and bookstore. Several decades later it is still standing today mainly as a used bookstore and a venue for gatherings such as book signings. Mr. Brown proudly states that:

"We really know our community because we are adjacent to Fort Knox, we have a lot more military titles, a lot more military history than probably any other store in Kentucky for sure, and we have much more, we have a lot of gift lines, so we're still a combination bookstore and gift store, we have Tiny Beanie Babies, we have music boxes, and plush animals..."

When it comes to the business of having an independent bookstore, the biggest challenge Mr. Brown faces on a daily basis is the fact that he has a hard time getting the word out with regards to the promotions they currently have and rely mostly through word-of-mouth and social media sites to get news out. "We really depend on community involvement so it’s tougher when you can’t do as much advertising and things like that as you'd like to do." But, of course, the good side with having an independent bookstore is that he gets to know just about everybody who comes in. He says,  "that’s the best part of it!"

Mr. Brown says, "Because of my knowledge of books and authors, there’s probably not anything that a customer can ask me about that I won’t have knowledge of. Frequently, somebody will be looking for something obscure, something hard to find, and often I'll either have the book or know of it and be able to get it for them." If there is anyone who needs a few guides or books on anything, make sure to approach Mr. Brown because he confesses that, "... my extensive knowledge of all that, I’m really a great resource of what somebody is looking for."

(not intended to be an endorsement for Cards over Cats, lol)

One of the best perks of The Bookstore is that since it's mostly a used bookstore, prices start from a couple of dollars and nothing much is over five dollars. Most of the books for sale in The Bookstore are available for anyone who wants to bring it home and treasure it. They also have some titles that are first edition and special edition books. The Bookstore carries such an extensive variety of books that anyone who comes in will be in for a surprise when they find "the" book they are looking for. Mr. Brown also says that there are a lot of "romance book" readers and they do well with the title selections the store has.

If there were one thing that Mr. Brown wishes for people to realize when it comes to The Bookstore, he shares that, "I think that because we are a local business, we give a lot more back to the local community than the big chains like the Amazon, the digital stuff. You know the folks when they come to us, when they need a donation or a contribution and so... I’d wish they’d remember that... when they go and spend their money; that we’re local and that we give back to the community."

If you haven’t been to The Bookstore, Mr. Brown invites everyone and says:

"We’re such a wide variety; not only books and gifts... I think we just love our community and just enjoy seeing everybody, it’s something. We’re here because we love it and because we want to be and not because somebody pays us and we have to be."

As always, all of their new books are discounted 10% and their used books are competitively priced so people can save a lot of money when they shop there. Make sure you stop by The Bookstore today before and come home with books and gain a friend.

The Bookstore is located at 300 West Lincoln Trail, Radcliff, KY 40160. Their contact number is 270-351-1801. To get the latest news on The Bookstore, make sure to “LIKE” them on Facebook at The Bookstore.

School Season: One Obstacle In Buying Or Selling A House?

As the school year begins this week for students, many families are wondering if it's a good time to sell their house or buy a new Elizabethtown, KY home. There are many reasons why buyers stay away from buying homes at the beginning of the school year and it’s not just because of the kids’ schedules. Usually, there are far greater things to worry about.

The school year should not prevent you and your family from buying or selling your house. Our children usually understand the reasons why we have to do some things and if they do put up a fight, then a family conference should be enough to hear their sides out. There might be some compromises you have to make with them and there will be times you will have wished that you had put off buying or selling a house. But, like almost all things in life, "this too shall pass".

One of the biggest mistakes most people make when they buy or sell a house is trying to get it all done in such a short span of time. Assuming there aren't any time constraints, buying or selling a house can take anywhere from a few short weeks to 4-6 months if you're building a new home near Fort Knox. For buyers, this is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make so make sure that all questions have been answered. Talk with your Fort Knox Realtor and mortgage lender

Another obstacle when buying an Elizabethtown KY house during school year is to make sure moving day doesn't conflict with exams or other major school events. When this happens, check to see if the buyer or seller is willing to move the closing date by a week or two. Hopefully, most will oblige and then your kids will be able to enjoy their school festivities or be able to concentrate on their exams.

Lastly, make sure you partner up with a great Elizabethtown real estate company. You want to partner with a Realtor who you can be honest with and be able to divulge confidential information such as how much your budget will be. For houses in the Fort Knox area, check out listings from HardinHomes.com to see which homes fit within your price range.

Have a great school year and may it bring new adventures to our kids and families.

When Really Is The Best Time To Buy A House?

This beautiful house is available to home buyers. Check the full details out at
http://www.hardinhomes.com/listings/248521---1102-Thomas-Road-Rineyville-Kentucky-40162. 

With half of the year already behind us, many of us are already homeowners, renters, or still looking for “the” house to call our own. But, with so many news coming out that 2013 is the year to buy a house, families who have no plans of buying a house yet are now pressured to jump and ride the bandwagon just to get the best deals in terms of housing costs, monthly payments, and banks being more relaxed when approving housing loans. These families may sometimes find themselves in a trap and feel overwhelmed with all the payments needed in order to buy their chosen house. But, worry not, there are actually a lot of houses for sale especially in the houses for sale near the Fort Knox area. Here are some tips to calm your nerves down and make sure that buying a house need not be a time of headaches and worries.

• Interest Rates Are Still At An All Time Low 

Even if the interest rates have slightly increased this year, according to Freddie Mac, interest rates offered by banks across the state are still experiencing an all-time low. In fact, this is a good indication that maybe, this year is the year to actually buy a house even if you have never really thought of it before.

• Realtors Are More Versatile Now Than Ever 

Not just someone to talk to when looking at a house, getting a qualified and professional Realtor in the Fort Knox area is the best person to ask when it comes to any real estate questions you may have. A lot of these Realtors have extensive knowledge of the area and will be able to give you listings that match your budget, whatever amount that may be. Make sure to partner with an equally competitive real estate company in the area such as HardinHomes.com so that you know that you will be getting the most for your hard-earned money.

• Keep A Healthy Amount Of Money In Your Bank Account 

Aside from knowing that buying a house will be one of your biggest purchases ever, you must also be aware that having a healthy sized amount of savings in your bank account will make it easier for banks to approve of your housing loan.

• Is Buying A House Really What You Need? 

Sometimes, people get swayed too easily with all the advertisements and get succumbed to purchasing a house too soon when you and your family are not really that ready yet. Make sure to have a serious conversation with your partner and loved ones if “now” is the best time to buy that house, too.

Owning your own house is definitely one way to secure your family’s future and to make sure that your money is going to a good use as well. Check out listings with www.HardinHomes.com to see all the houses available for sale in the Fort Knox area.

Barry Carr - A Realtor With A Heart of Gold For Hearts of Hope

There are not a lot of people who get so moved by just reading an article in a newspaper to actually reach out and devote their time to make a change; but change he did and change is what he wants to happen with the homeless citizens in Hardin County. This is Mr. Barry Carr, a Hardin County Realtor and a man of gold when it comes to sharing his knowledge and time at Hearts of Hope, a non-profit organization that aims to help out the homeless citizens of Hardin County, Kentucky. He helps out Hearts of Hope by contacting businesses in hopes that they will have the heart to pledge some help. Being an expert in real estate, he also shares his knowledge with the construction.

Homeless Situation in Hardin County

According to Mr. Carr, since the community of Hardin County is quite small, the problem is “really bad, it’s a very small community so having 40-50 homeless citizens is already bad. The homeless are sleeping in sheds in front of Lowe's and Home Depot.” This is a sad fact that many citizens are facing right now and hopefully when the construction of the shelter gets finished, it will be able to provide temporary housing and a chance to help the citizens find work and an address to put on their job applications so that they will be contacted by potential employers. Hardin County is experiencing fair weather lately but once winter rolls around, it will be very hard for the homeless as conditions can get pretty harsh. Once Hearts of Hope finishes the homeless shelter, it could be a totally different story for the homeless since they will be able to find comfort inside the shelter.

The Promise in Hearts of Hope

With only a handful of volunteers to keep the operations and construction in full swing, Hearts of Hope wishes to appeal to the fortunate citizens of Hardin County and throughout the nation so that the shelter can be on its way to completion. Right now, construction is at 60% so there is still a lot that needs to be done but it can only be finished if everyone finds time to either donate cash, building materials, or their time so that the shelter will be able to house the less fortunate. Hearts of Hope will not only house the homeless but a part of the shelter will be devoted to battered women who have nowhere else to go. Mr. Barry Carr states that because the church is also involved in this shelter, many of its members are already opening up their homes to the homeless and giving these people a fighting chance of a better future.

Hope For The Homeless

When it comes to finding funds, getting people to stand up and donate cash or building materials can be a challenging task especially with how the economy is but this should not be a hindrance because everyone has a soft spot in their hearts and it just needs a little tugging to get the magic out and to reach out to the community. It is definitely not too late to help the homeless and do your share in making everyone live a normal life. For the homeless, Mr. Barry Carr states that, "there definitely is help coming."

Do Your Part To Help The Homeless

In order to make the Hardin Homeless Shelter a “transitional home” for the homeless, they will need all the help that they can get. It doesn't really take much of your time and now is the time to look into Hearts of Hope. Finding an hour or two of your time to help finish building the shelter or even donate a few dollars. You can contact Mr. Barry Carr directly at 270-300-6891 or through the Hearts of Hope. Be sure to click "Like" on the Hearts of Hope Facebook page.

Elizabethtown Nature Park and Veterans Tribute: A Place Every Citizen Must Visit

Gently nested on rolling hills, a recently constructed tribute called the Hardin County Veterans Tribute stands proudly against the beautiful background of Elizabethtown Nature Park, one of the largest in Kentucky at 104- acres of beautiful landscapes that is perfect for anyone to come visit and enjoy what nature has to offer.

The Elizabethtown Nature Park is located at 1900 Ring Road East and you and your family will easily find yourselves lost in this behemoth of a place. You can enjoy all the beauty that surrounds it with Freeman Lake that falls as a backdrop to this surreal place while Freeman Creek wanders in and out of your sight as well.  Do not underestimate what you can do here because it has a trail that you can follow and immerse yourself in nature and learn about history at the same time.

Once you get yourself acquainted with the stunningly beautiful landscapes found all over Elizabethtown Nature Park, you will soon catch a glimpse of Hardin County’s Tribute to the veterans who have served the country. This is the Hardin County Veterans Tribute. This dazzling structure that beckons out to anyone walking past it will have you mesmerized for a few minutes at its marvelous structure. The five pointed star that acts as its ground, shapely magnifies the five pillars of the military and each one has a short written memorial thanking each servicemen who have bravely given up their lives in dedication of service to the country.

See, not many people know that Elizabethtown, located in the heart of Hardin County, had a huge impact to the nation’s history as well. It is this honor and pride that all residents of Kentucky share because their forefathers and grandmothers somehow had a role in the fearless and wondrous shaping of the country that makes the United States of America – the best in the world.

The Hardin County Veterans Tribute can be easily accessed from inside the Elizabethtown Nature Park. Rick Griendling, the one responsible for the design of this magnificent structure, is also known for designing and sculpting other memorials in Kentucky and has been directly working in structures for over 35 years.

The five pillars of the Hardin County Veterans Tribute stand for the five branches of the military; the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. The center of the star also commemorates all the civilians who bravely helped each military men and women who heroically stood up with courage and fought for the nation.

Hardin County may seem like a fairly quiet location to most but it is actually a very vital area in our country that everyone should take notice and even pay tribute to because during the early years, it helped shape the country and it is to this we owe so much to Kentucky for making United States of America shine brightly and stand proud worldwide.

Make the effort today or soon to visit the Elizabethtown Nature Park and also the Hardin County Veterans Tribute to show respect to all our fellow servicemen who have courageously stood by and help keep each citizen safe from harm. If you're considering a move, consider the great deals and low taxes Elizabethtown, KY real estate has to offer.

Leo's Donuts and Coffee - A Fun Place To Hangout And Have Donuts And Coffee

Leo’s Donuts and Coffee – A Fun Place To Hangout And Have Donuts And Coffee

When donuts come to mind for the residents of Radcliff KY, many people conjure up images of police officers happily munching on these sweet and unique creations. As the owner of Leo’s Donuts and Coffee House, this is the main reason they named their business, a donut and coffee specialty shop – Leo’s. Basically Leo’s is actually an acronym for Law Enforcement Officer. Their shop does not cater to police officers alone of course; they cater to everyone and happily accommodate each and every single customer that enters this quaint and cozy donut shop through the doors or through their drive-thru window.

Beginnings and Donuts 

Kids love Leo's cereal donuts

Having just opened last November 2012, it has really been a busy place since the first day it opened. This is great news because everyone can use a community gathering place to just relax, enjoy the music, enjoy the weather, and of course their specialty coffee and donut creations one can only find at Leo’s Donut and Coffee House. As Mr. Shortt said, “…it was very busy from the very beginning.” The Shortts have purchased the building where it stands and made this place welcoming to anyone who wants a place to unwind, meet with family and friends, and to devour the donuts that are always freshly made on a daily basis. They use the freshest and best ingredients that they can source and make sure that each customer who walks in will feel like king of the day. The donuts alone are to die for with toppings such as iced raspberry, red velvet, bacon maple, and even cereal donuts.

Leo's Donuts And Coffee House Is Jam Packed 

Leo’s Donuts and Coffee is situated close to Fort Knox and because of this, it enjoys a very high traffic where people come in to purchase one or a box of donuts. You can be sure that around mid-morning till after lunch that this place can be found filled to the brim with all kinds of customers. Another perk they offer is the free WIFI that many customers find very useful when snacking on donuts and checking in on their emails and site surfing. Leo’s Donuts and Coffee House is a definite welcome to the Radcliff neighborhood and kids are always all smiles when inside the store.

Leo’s Donuts and Coffee also specializes in coffee and one of their top sellers is the Leo’s Mocha that enjoys a robust and awakening experience to anyone who orders this. You can be sure that all of their coffee creations are made with the highest quality of beans that are sourced directly so the flavors are jumping and just wrap around your mouth like a burst of freshness.

Donuts And Locations 

If you are not in the Radcliff, KY area, don’t lose hope as Mr. Terry Shortt and his wife are already brainstorming ideas on the next possible location for the second shop. Of course, you can always hop on over at their store and you can be sure that you will be welcomed with open arms and of course a fresh batch of donuts and specialty coffee.

A True Meeting Place - Leo's Donuts And Coffee House

So, what really makes this business stand out is that they are the only one that can be called a “true meeting place” for everyone in the community as they welcome the place as a hangout place for meetings with a covered patio and even a dining area. They will soon host a book signing event by a local author named John Flanagan this 4^th of May and everyone is invited to come in and meet the author himself while enjoying that most sought after donuts that Leo’s Donuts and Coffee House is popular for. This is a joint event with The Book Store and John Flanagan will be there to share his experiences as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War.

The Happy Place To Have Donuts

As Mr. Terry Shortt says, Leo’s Donuts and Coffee House is a “fun place to come and have coffee and donuts with your friends.” Don’t delay and see what the entire rave is about this donut shop that is putting Radcliff KY on the map across the nation. You will definitely not be disappointed and will most definitely come out with smiles right across your face while happily munching on a box of Leo’s Donuts and Coffee House.

Leo’s Donuts and Coffee House is located at 605 N. Wilson Rd., Radcliff, Kentucky. They can contacted at 270-352-2283. Their store hours are Monday - Friday 6:00am-5:00pm and 8:00am-4:00pm Saturdays. Check them out also at www.LeosDonuts.com. Be sure to "Like" them on Facebook.

How To Find Credible Elizabethtown KY Real Estate Companies When House Hunting

How To Find Credible Elizabethtown KY Real Estate Companies When House Hunting

With summer just around the corner, many families who want to move up or down in house are now in the mood to do some house hunting. If you are also looking to buy real estate in Elizabethtown KY, you know that economy there is in full swing and people are more raring to buy a house that they have been in a long time. But, don’t just go all in and close on the first offer that is presented to you. It is always a good idea to have an expert Elizabethtown KY real estate agent to help you get the house you want at the price you can afford. There are several ways to make sure that the real estate company you have chosen is indeed a credible one and not just out to make their cut when a deal is closed. Several of these real estate professionals really do care for your family and your future and want to make sure that you have made the best decision there is before settling in one homes for sale Elizabethtown KY.

Is The Company Already Established In The Area?

One of the best ways to make sure that you are dealing with a credible Elizabethtown KY real estate company is to see if they are already established and have full knowledge of the area in which they are located. You want to see if the Realtors are really knowledgeable about certain locations and how far establishments are from each other. They must able to provide you with additional information such as the history of the home or area you are looking to buy and even the best restaurants in and around the Elizabethtown KY area. When you come across one real estate company that you think is credible, check their background and even profiles of their real estate agents and see if you feel at home speaking with one of them. This is not the time to be shy because it is your money that is on the line and your family’s future as well. Real estate companies that are also looking out for you will go above and beyond to make sure that you have made the best possible decision.

Homes For Sale Elizabethtown KY – Is The Area For You?

Once you have decided to look at homes for sale Elizabethtown KY, you want to get a feel for the place. Check with the real estate company you are working with to see if they can offer you any additional insights that only they know about. A credible real estate company will have more information about a specific house or location and not just information that you can easily get from a quick search online or a phone call from a friend. Real estate agents will want to share with you, even on a private note, about why one house is not the perfect match for you and your family and will be able to offer a better alternative than you may have realized in the first place. The good thing with homes for sale in Elizabethtown KY is that several credible real estate companies are highly knowledgeable about the area and will be able to give you a better understanding and appreciation of the houses for sale there.

Trusting Your Gut

Once you have decided on one real estate company that specializes in the Elizabethtown KY real estate, you must then turn to your inner self and trust your instincts. After all, even with all the homes for sale in the Elizabethtown KY, you and your family will be the ones to make a final decision if you should go ahead and make a deal on it or to continue in your search for the perfect house.

HardinHomes.com is one real estate company that is already established and has major presence in the Elizabethtown KY real estate market and also its surrounding areas. They will be more than willing to help you choose a house that will be a perfect match according to your needs, budget, and wants.

HardinHomes donates computer power for life-changing research

HardinHomes is donating spare computer processor power to Progress Thru Processors to assist in life-changing research. Visit Progress Thru Processors on Facebook to learn how you can help.

Nicholas Ridge Subdivision Etown Yard Sale

Neighbors in the Nicholas Ridge Subdivision (Elizabethtown, Kentucky) unite to have a community yard sale. It's followed up with a "block party" social event.