The E2RC In Kentucky: Connecting Two Cities For Better Economic Growth And Safety

The E2RC. Photo from www.qk4.com. Used with permission. 

While many are aware that completion of E2RC (Elizabethtown to Radcliff Connector) will not be until sometime next year, the residents of Radcliff, Elizabethtown, and Hardin County cannot wait for the changes in terms of safety, ease of traffic, and a more comfortable drive.

The E2RC project started in late 2004 with just proposals and talks. Eventually, this project came to life in 2008 and is scheduled to be complete in July 2014. The construction process may have seen many delays due to the weather and the relocation of some parts, but all the sacrifice will be seen once the road connector is done.

For those who are not fully aware of the E2RC, this is the Elizabethtown Radcliff road connector that's broken down into three sections. The first section runs from 31W Bypass to Ceciliana Dr., the second section runs from Ceciliana Drive to KY 220, and the last section runs from KY 220 to KY 313. This road connector will ease up a lot of traffic, especially along those areas affected. While this is undergoing construction there have already been several businesses affected from the construction, such as True Value along N. Dixie Blvd.

The targeted total cost for E2RC is at $58.6 million and while there has been some setbacks, it is all systems go and soon all the residents around the Fort Knox area will be happily using this road connector.

One of the biggest problems along the road between Elizabethtown and Radcliff is the major congestions and traffic accidents from the daily hustle and bustle. There have also been instances where people would be advised to take alternate routes because of a major road accident. Once the E2RC is finished a lot of the traffic congestion will ease up and there should be smooth driving throughout the roads.

In terms of commercial possibilities, It is likely to happen once everything has settled down. There is a lot of potential areas within the E2RC that should welcome investors and business owners to set up shop. The land being utilized for the E2RC is mostly residential and has no major slopes. Let us cross our fingers that once this road connector has reached completion, there will be people interested in investing and keep the economy of both Radcliff and Elizabethtown flourishing. Small business owners who would like to expand or start business should also look forward to the finishing of this connector.

A police officer from the Radcliff Police Department cannot wait [for the E2RC to finish] because he would like to see less accidents along the road especially during the cold winter months.

Aside from the commercial point of view for the E2RC, there are also plans to develop some areas into new residential communities and this is great news, no matter where you choose to live (radcliff or Elizabethtown) you will still be close to both communities.

The E2RC, has already been given a new name with the blessing of  the Public Works Committee under the Hardin Fiscal Court. Elizabethtown has already accepted the new name as Patriot Parkway. Meetings will still be held in Radcliff to see if this name should stay or not. The bulk of the road connector will just run through small areas in Elizabethtown and Radcliff but business will be affected and everyone is hoping for a favorable outcome once this reaches its completion.

While this E2RC is a limited highway, there have already been talks whether they should include more lanes and more turns to further enhance the traffic system that will be in place between Radcliff and Elizabethtown.

Mr. Randy Acton of Semonin Commercial Properties and also a resident of Hardin County says that: “Well, for sure the traffic flow will be better especially the traffic along the Dixie Highway.”

There are still months before this is all done but remember, Rome wasn't built in a day so let’s all hope for the best once the E2RC is completely finished.

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.

Shawn Paul – Staying True to The Business Of Flipping Houses in Elizabethtown, KY

While the business of real estate may seem stagnant these past few years, there is a lot of hope for the residents of Elizabethtown, KY. Money may be tight and that is understandable because we are just recovering from the economic hardships that have swept across the nation. But, even if today does not look like a fruitful day, one must always stay true to their dreams of a better future. This is what Shawn Paul, a realtor at HardinHomes.com and someone who specializes in flipping houses for a living is doing. As someone who has been in the business of flipping houses well over 4 years, he knows that one must take into great care when buying and selling houses.

What is Flipping Houses?

Basically, flipping houses is when you buy a property that is priced well below market value and either renovate it or break it down and build it back to brand new condition. It sounds pretty straight forward but according to Mr. Paul, he claims that, “buying the right one and selling it at the right price” can be a very daunting task and this has always been his biggest challenge in this business. He says that one must invest a lot of time and money in order for this business to become very lucrative. You must also have a lot of “general knowledge in construction costs and understanding of the math and financial numbers where the pricing will be.”

Challenges You Will Face When Flipping Houses

There are many challenges one will face when flipping houses but so far, Mr. Paul says that, “he’ll be glad to help” if anyone wants to ask for advice from him. You have to know how much items cost and understand the whole gamut of things before you can really market the property you are working on to be a profitable one.

Future Of Real Estate In Kentucky

Mr. Paul wishes the economy could get better when it comes to the real estate market and hopefully it will since right now it is experiencing a buyer’s market wherein prices of homes are selling way below their fair market value. This can mean that more people are willing to let go of their investments and hard work for a lower price.

Advice For People Who Want To Get Into Flipping Houses

This business of flipping houses basically sounds enticing to many people because of its “extreme profitability” as said by Mr. Paul but it will take a lot of time and money on your part as well. He is open to anyone who wants to get advice from him when it comes to getting the right properties to flip and rebuild.

Flipping Houses For Mr. Shawn Paul

Indeed, this man of great personality stands firm in his ways of flipping houses and wishes people to get more interested in it if they have the proper resources and funding… so that their future will be brighter. 

If you are interested in flipping houses, do a quick home search to check out some of the real estate for sale in Elizabethtown, KY.

To speak with Shawn Paul to ask questions or find your own flip, call, text, or email 270-401-1223 ShawnPaul@HardinHomes.com

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.

When Should I Sell My Elizabethtown KY real estate? Spring, Summer, or Winter?

When is the best time to sell your Elizabethtown KY real estate? Typically, when you need to. There will always be a market of buyers.

The seasons can have an effect, though. Winter, for instance, is generally not the busiest time for Elizabethtown Kentucky real estate buyers, but on average the inventory of homes for sale during the winter tends to be a little lower. That may actually work in your favor. Yours may be the one piece of Elizabethtown real estate that’s quickly snatched up for reasons that have nothing to do with the time of year.

If you can wait, late spring is probably a more ideal time to list your home. Some Elizabethtown KY real estate sellers think listing early, say in March, will give them a head start. They might be gearing their listing toward spring break shoppers. Sometimes though, the weather can change dramatically and quickly in March. A storm can stop buyers from venturing out to look at homes.

Sell Dates Versus Closing Dates
Also to be considered, Elizabethtown Kentucky real estate buyers generally want a 30 to 60 day closing, so listing in March may attract buyers that want to close in April/May. If you don’t want to move until your children have finished school, March may be actually be a good time to sell. Of course, you can try to negotiate the date of your choice. If children’s schedules aren’t a factor, if you’re moving within the same school zone, or if you have an urgent reason for needing to sell, selling early in the spring won’t hurt you.

April or May are often a better choice, because snowfall has ceased, buyers will be more motivated to venture out to view Elizabethtown KY real estate. Those who want to move during the summer will often begin their search in these months.

Just a tip: If you’re planning to close at the end of your child’s school year, give yourself transition time. If your children have exams, are involved in special events, graduations, and so forth, it will be a busy time for the family and probably not the best time to be packing up the student’s belongings. Perhaps closing a week or two after the school year ends is worth negotiating.

Yes, a sale is important, but as a seller, it’s still all in your hands. Do what works best for you. That’s what negotiation is about; finding the best or most workable scenario for both the seller and the buyer.

The Importance of Trends
Contrary to thinking, being first on the market to list your house isn’t necessarily ideal. It can be advantageous to use other sellers’ scenarios as case studies. Once the Elizabethtown real estate market becomes speckled with more homes for sale, your agent will hear important feedback and be able to gauge what’s happening with buyers. She’ll be more knowledge about the current buyer trends and better able to advise you on how to price your home for a quick sale. If your price is right, for current demand, your home will sell. If you're asking too much then you will wait. Be sure to factor that into your timeline.

If your neighbor decides to start off early at listing his house, perhaps at a high price, his house may be by-passed. New shoppers may not be in a hurry to snatch up the first thing they see. Until they’ve been able to compare with others, they may feel the home is over-priced. Listing when the Elizabethtown KY real estate market starts moving may be a better option.

Of course, there’s always a veteran shopper who’s been waiting for just the right home to come on the market. Yours might be it. There are no hard and fast rules about how houses sell.

Certainly a discussion about demand wouldn't be complete without talking about Fort Knox. We can't forget how important of a role Fort Knox plays with regard to the Elizabethtown KY real estate market. If Fort Knox is not moving soldiers in, then the market will be pretty flat as far as demand is concerned.

If you need to sell or are just toying with the idea, talk to us about the Elizabethtown KY real estate market. The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be to sell your home quickly.

In the Market for an Elizabethtown Home? -- Why You Need to Have Your Own Buyer's Agent

If you are new to the Elizabethtown area, you are probably busy looking at Elizabethtown real estate and seeking out homes for sale in Elizabethtown, KY. But you should not let the rush to buy stop you from seeking out a quality buyer’s agent. These real estate professionals perform an important function, and trying to find houses for sale in Elizabethtown KY without one can be dangerous to your wallet.

Some people who are looking for Elizabethtown KY real estate, simply work with the listing agent, not realizing that, in some cases, the agent is working on behalf of the seller and not on their behalf. The job of the listing agent for Elizabethtown real estate is to get the highest possible price for the home. Failing to work with a qualified buyer’s agent, one who knows the Elizabethtown real estate market inside and out, can be a huge mistake. What's the direct cost to you? $0 Why? The seller's agent compensates the buyer's agent for finding a buyer. If you just use the seller's agent, in most cases, the seller's agent gets to keep what would have been your buyer's agent's share.

It is fine to use the listing agent to get some general information on the Elizabethtown real estate market and the houses for sale in Elizabethtown, KY, but when it comes to serious matters like making an offer or having an Elizabethtown home inspection done, you need an advocate on your side.

A buyer’s agent can serve as that advocate in the Elizabethtown real estate market. When seeking out a buyer’s agent, keep in mind that all real estate is local. The market for Elizabethtown real estate is likely to be quite different than the market for real estate in other parts of the country, or even other parts of the state.

The houses for sale in Elizabethtown, KY run the gamut, from fixer-uppers most suitable for contractors and those with lots of construction experience, to pristine homes in move-in condition. Having an Elizabethtown KY Realtor as your buyer’s agent with specific experience in the Elizabethtown real estate market is the best way to ensure you bid only on the Elizabethtown area homes that meet your needs and the needs of your family.

Having a buyer’s agent who is an expert in the Elizabethtown KY real estate market on your side also makes it easier to determine a fair offer price. When you shop for houses for sale in the Elizabethtown, KY area, you want to shop within your own established price range. You also want to avoid the temptation to bid too high on a home you really love. Without a buyer’s agent on your side, you could be tempted into overpaying for houses for sale in Elizabethtown, KY. With the help of an agent experienced in the Elizabethtown real estate market, you can craft an offer that will be as attractive to the seller as it is to your finances.

Fort Knox Home Seller Satisfied With HardinHomes

Another satisfied home seller thanking us on our HardinHomes facebook page. They saved $5,215 by not paying 6% commission when selling their Elizabethtown Kentucky house.

Social feature added to real estate website

Now you can share Fort Knox Kentucky real estate listings with your social networks a little easier:
http://www.HardinHomes.com/real-estate-for-sale

Give it a try (click any listing), we hope you find it useful.

List Your Home With Caution, Pictures Are Important

If you're selling a home near Fort Knox Kentucky (or anywhere really), make sure the agent you choose knows that pictures are extremely important. This is a military relocation market and many buyers are making decisions based on pictures. Usually they are coming to visit Ft. Knox and have already picked out the homes they would like to see. In some cases they buy the home solely based off the pictures.

Quick Checklist:
All pictures need to be entered the same day the listing is entered into the system.
Pictures shouldn't be small (at least 800x600) when uploaded to the system.
No blurry ones and no crooked ones (no one likes a sinking house).
If you can avoid a dark cloudy day, do it.
Examples of bad pictures

You never get a second chance to make a first impression
Every single day we see new listings that are entered in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service a.k.a. the homes for sale database) with just one picture or no pictures at all. This is a major mistake and can hurt your chances of a quick sale. Buyers are entered into the system and get emailed when a new listing matches their criteria. You are in front of many buyers for the first time and if there's no picture, buyers will most likely move on to the next listing.

No buyer wants to look at small pictures
I think there used to be a requirement that pictures had to be small (320x240) to be entered into the system. That's no longer the case. Make sure your agent uploads bigger pictures, if they're too big then the system re-sizes them anyway.

Is that home sinking?
No, we hope not, but that's the impression some bad pictures give if they aren't straight. Also don't allow pictures to be taken on a super cloudy day if it can be avoided.
Believe it or not there's a home for sale in the high $300k range that has one photo, that's it. To make it worse it's a photo taken at dusk.

Remember how important pictures are when interviewing agents.

Saving Time and Gas when Shopping Fort Knox Kentucky Homes

Are you about to hit the pavement looking for a new Kentucky home? The search for a home can involve many trips in the car as you drive around to find potential properties. Here are some strategies that will help you to save time and gas during the home search.

1. The Internet. Using an Internet search engine like Google to find a Hardin County house for sale is without a doubt the most efficient way to proceed. Unlike the real estate section of the local newspaper, good real estate websites help you narrow your selection. You're able to filter the results then browse the listings that are automatically returned.

2. Consult a real estate agent. One trip to the office of a real estate agent or broker will provide you with a free session to obtain listings that meet your buying requirements and give you valuable advice. You are not charged to access this information or to follow up with questions later. A good real estate agent, but especially a Realtor licensed by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), will provide as much information as requested with the anticipation that you will return later for Realtor assistance when buying the home.
Again, searching online for a Fort Knox Kentucky Realtor is the best option because you're more likely to find a good agent who is web savvy. Roughly 85% of buyers use the internet during the home buying process (probably higher in our market due to military relocation), it's highly likely that a web savvy agent will have vast experience from completing many transactions.

3. Use email, text messaging, or phone to contact your agent about specific properties. Real estate professionals can consult the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to find out if a property is still available and read through the listing to see if it really meets your needs.

Because real estate professionals provide free advice, they are best prepared to deliver valuable information that streamlines your property search. Wasting gas looking at homes that don’t meet your needs is not necessary in a high-priced energy market (it's not really green either). Take advantage of the real estate advice and online search sites at your disposal to make your Fort Knox KY military home search as convenient as possible.

Hardin County Kentucky Real Estate Market Statistics (Q3)

Third Quarter Fort Knox Kentucky Housing Market Area Report*

377 homes sold (440 third quarter 2007)
674 new listings (454 third quarter 2007)


*Market area includes 4 Hardin County cities/towns Elizabethtown, Radcliff, Vine Grove, and Rineyville. All residential house styles are included except mobile homes and modular homes. Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data from Heart of Kentucky Association of REALTORS (HKAR).

Real Estate for sale in Elizabethtown Kentucky

101 Penbrooke Drive is a custom built 2 story, Kentucky home that has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. It's nestled in Elizabehtown’s beautiful Whembly Forest subdivision. It features laminate hardwood flooring and Italian counter tops. The covered front porch and large lot add a nice country feel. The bonus room could be used as an office or sitting room. The basement has plenty of storage space. Entertain in the formal dining room or enjoy company on the deck.

Elizabethtown 2 story for sale in Kentucky

This beautiful Kentucky home has 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. It's located in Elizabethtown's quiet Bent Creek subdivision. Just minutes from I-65 and local restaurants. With over 2,900 sqft this home has the space and the features buyers are looking for. The bonus room might be used as a 4th bedroom or large office. The hardwood floors in the foyer, living room and dining area are stunning and the finished basement includes a family/play room and media room. It has a 2 car garage and additional storage in the attic. The corner lot is detailed with landscaping.

Large Elizabethtown KY Ranch for Sale

770 Spring Road is a large ranch that sits on a beautifully landscaped lot. It has a nice covered front porch and a fenced backyard. Enjoy company on the deck or entertain in the over-sized dining room. With over 2,000 square feet, this 4 bedroom 2 bath home has a ton of space.

Prestigious golf course subdivision home for sale in Elizabethtown KY

This home is a spacious 2 story that has more than 2,500 square feet. It’s located in a well maintained, prestigious golf course subdivision, The Woods at Pine Valley. There are 3 large bedrooms, 2.5 baths and an absolutely wonderful kitchen. Sitting around the outdoor wood burning fireplace, you will enjoy the privacy of the 6 foot back yard fence. The insulated sun porch is a welcomed upgrade.

Elizabethtown KY starter home for sale

Newly remodeled home on a cul-de-sac street in southern Elizabethtown Kentucky (map). New carpet and vinyl flooring, ceiling fans, fresh paint, and new windows.

Nicholas Ridge 2 story for sale Elizabethtown Kentucky

706 Clear Spring Court is a well maintained 2 story home. It's located in Nicholas Ridge subdivision, Elizabethtown Kentucky. 3 bedrooms / 2.5 baths and a $4,000 privacy fence. The master bedroom is a wonderful size and sports two walk-in closets. The big lot in the cul-de-sac backs up to mature trees. Elizabethtown Independent school district and proximity to I-65 are wonderful.

Hardin County Kentucky Real Estate Market Statistics (Q2)

Second Quarter Fort Knox Kentucky Housing Market Area Report*

273 homes sold (331 second quarter 2007)
500 new listings (480 second quarter 2007)


*Market area includes 4 Hardin County cities/towns Elizabethtown, Radcliff, Vine Grove, and Rineyville. All residential house styles are included except mobile homes and modular homes. Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data from Heart of Kentucky Association of REALTORS (HKAR).

Hardin County Kentucky Real Estate Market Statistics (monthly)

June Fort Knox Kentucky Housing Market Area Report*

90 homes sold (down from 96 last month)
170 new listings (up from 151 last month)

RESULT: Worsening over last month.


*Market area includes 4 Hardin County cities/towns Elizabethtown, Radcliff, Vine Grove, and Rineyville. All residential house styles are included except mobile homes and modular homes. Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data from Heart of Kentucky Association of REALTORS (HKAR).

Radcliff Kentucky Real Estate Market Statistics (weekly)

June 22-28 Radcliff Kentucky Housing Market Area Report*

28 homes sold
37 new listings
25 homes went pending (under contract)

*Market area includes 4 Hardin County cities/towns Elizabethtown, Radcliff, Vine Grove, and Rineyville. All house styles are included except mobile homes and modular homes. Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data from Heart of Kentucky Association of REALTORS (HKAR).