Summer Fun Just Beginning in Ocean Springs

Just because Memorial Day Weekend is over doesn't mean that the festivities end in Ocean Springs. In fact, it's just the beginning of a summer full of regattas, festivals, sporting events and backyard get-togethers.
To get you started, here are the best upcoming events in Ocean Springs this summer:

Red, White & Blueberry Festival
Date: June 5th
Time: 10-2 pm
Location: Depot Lot, Downtown Ocean Springs
Website: www.oceanspringsfreshmarket.com
Ocean Springs Fresh Market vendors will be set up, dishing up all different types of fresh food from local vendors. The one food you cannot miss is the free vanilla ice cream topped with juicy blueberries and strawberries. Enjoy sampling different food while listening to the live music and perusing through an assortment of antiques, crafts and open houses for downtown businesses.

USTA League Tennis MS Adult Championships
Date: June 10-13
Location: Throughout Mississippi Gulf Coast
Website: www.mstennis.com
Among 458 teams in the area, the "best of the best," will now move on to compete in over 200 team matches to vie for the state championship title. From there, 6 champions will move on to compete for the Southern Sectional Championship in Birmingham, Alabama.

10th Annual Chocolate Ball
Date: June 12
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: 1600 Government St, Ocean Springs
Website: http://themaryc.org/2009LeBalauChocolat.htm
Ten years and going strong, The Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center of Arts and Education is once again hosting the Annual Le Bal au Chocolat! Indulge in sumptuous gourmet food prepared by IP Chefs (of the IP Casino). Bars will be set up inside and outside of the new state-of-the-art IP Culinary Arts Cafe, offering wine, champagne, and none other than chocolate martinis to tickle your taste buds. To set the mood, an acclaimed Salsa band will play Latin tunes inspiring couples to dance to salsa, mambo, cha-cha, rumba and swing. So put on your dancing shoes, come hungry and get ready to have a Chocolate Ball!

July Sidewalk Sale
Date: July 23 - 24
Time: 10 am - 5 pm
Location: Downtown, Uptown, and all around town - this is the time to find the best summer sales that Ocean Springs has to offer, while really getting to know Downtown Historic Ocean Springs.

Of course, if you need an Ocean Springs tour guide, I am at your service. The Mississippi Gulf Coast area is growing at a rapid pace and now is the time to buy. There are a lot of great homes on the market, and this summer is the perfect time to come take a look. You won't be sorry!


Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.

4 Tips for Buying in Ocean Springs!

So, you’ve seen the market hit an all-time low these past few years and you’re wondering when or even if you should consider jumping in to the uneasy waters. You love the Ocean Springs area and know you want to stay for a while, which is where I can help! Below are four tips for buying in Mississippi Gulf Coast in today’s market. These pieces of advice may seem “old school”, but maybe the past generations had it right!

1. Save Smart for a Down Payment- You may be leery of throwing all your equity into a mortgage in the case of an economic downturn. However, as the market continues to stabilize, the 15%-20% down payment can pay off! A higher equity, lower payments and better interest rates will set you up in the long run.

2. Borrow with Your Budget- It may be tempting to “go big” when you look at what you’ve been approved for by a lender. Yet, the best advice is simply: live within your means. Short sales and foreclosures are in abundance these days as many decided to bite off more than they could chew. Be smart about setting up a realistic budget.

3. Think Long Term- A safe bet is to buy for the long haul. Although the market seems to be improving, this is not the time to buy only to turn around and sell. Flipping an older home has been glamorized lately, but chances of making a fast dollar in real estate today are slim. Think through the long term plan and buy smart.

4. Understand the Mississippi Gulf Coast Market- The national averages are just that- averages. Our market, and every cities market, is unique. Feel free to ask me any questions about Ocean Springs and the surrounding area! I can give you insight into our housing, job market and area statistics.

As always, I’m here to help! I’d love to talk with you more about the Mississippi Gulf Coast area. There are a lot of great homes on the market, and my main goal is to help you find the place that fits your budget and lifestyle! Hope to hear from you soon!


Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.

Enjoying your Ocean Springs Outdoor Living Space!

One of the great things about Ocean Springs is the extended months of outside living. Enjoying great weather with family and friends in your backyard is an ideal way to spend long summer days and balmy evenings. And while you may have a yard that you want to spend time in, you may not feel comfortable with the close proximity of your neighbors’ homes and limited privacy. Below are ten great ways to create your own backyard retreat complete with an ambiance that offers the privacy you desire.

1. Staggered wooden boards- Staggering wooden boards along the perimeter of your yard can be a great alternative to a plain fence. Painting one section in alternating colors adds variety and a sense of fun to your outdoor space.

2. Privacy Plantings- Placing fast growing hedges like the Italian Cypress can be a great way to divide your yard from your neighbors. Most cities do not have an ordinance on how high these hedges can be, which is great if wanting to block unsightly views from a kitchen window or to create full privacy.

3. Layered Privacy Plantings- If you prefer a more natural privacy line, try staggering Evergreen trees with shrubs and perennials. This look works especially well with larger back yards and can add a nice touch of color.

4. Container Gardens- If you have a raised deck that you would like to have offer a touch of privacy, container gardens are an ideal start. These potted gardens can be set along the perimeter of the deck at varied heights and can be used to create separate sections along a larger deck area.

5. Fences and Walls- If you are looking for a low maintenance way to block views of a pool or child’s playground, a fence or wall can be just the thing! This is especially ideal in a tight side yard where space for hedges or plants is limited. Be sure to check on city regulations on heights, although most allow for a 6-foot fence or wall.

6. Stone Wall Topped with Fence- This setup is perfect for those who want privacy without feeling claustrophobic. The 2-3 foot stone wall stops sight lines, while the 3-4 foot lattice, iron or picket fence offers you views to the neighborhood.

7. Masonry Wall with Iron work- Offering extensive privacy, a stone or stucco wall can oftentimes feel too closed in. However, adding cut out windows and decorating with iron work designs creates a chance for a break from a large foreboding wall while still maintaining a sense of privacy.

8. Panels and Pergolas- If enclosing the entire yard stretches your budget too much or you prefer to have an open yard, a panel or pergolas is the perfect solution. Enclosing a deck, patio or designated area provides privacy for outdoor dining or entertaining.

9. Lattice, Wood Panels and Ornamental Iron Work- These types of options are great for a private corner of the yard or for visual appeal. They do not obstruct any desired views but can act as an sense of containment and can help anchor a yard.

10. Masking Noise with Fountains- You may or may not want visual privacy, but oftentimes a noise barrier can be just the thing to distract from your neighbors conversations or a bothersome air conditioner. Be sure that your fountain is not too loud or that can be just as distracting as the noise you are trying to hide.

I hope these tips have been helpful! I happen to love Ocean Springs and the surrounding areas in the Mississippi Gulf Coast and want to help others find the home of their dreams or ways to enjoy their current home even more! If you have questions regarding the Ocean Springs Real Estate market- please let me know! I’d be happy to answer any questions you have or show you around this great city!


Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.

Celebrate Ocean Springs History This Weekend!

The charming town of Ocean Springs is bathed in a rich history and this coming weekend the community will be celebrating with a “Weekend of Discovery.” These few days, Saturday, April 24 through Sunday, April 25 will be filled with great activities recognizing the heritage of Ocean Springs and is being hosted by the 1699 Historical Society of Ocean Springs.

Celebrating the historic landing of Ocean Springs founding father Pierre Le Moyne Sieur d’Iberville is great way to bring the community together while making the residents more aware of its’ vibrant story. Saturday’s festivities will begin the 5k run/walk Race of Discovery at 8:30am at Fort Maurepas Park. There will also be a children’s 1/2 mile run/walk beginning at 9:15am. Of course what is a weekend of celebration without a parade? The Children’s Pet Parade on Saturday morning at 11am will be a fun event for everyone as owners have the option to dress up their pets! A handful of other activities will continue through Saturday like the 1699 Landing Regatta hosted by the Ocean Springs Yacht Club. Sunday morning will be highlighted by a special mass at 9am at ST. Alphonsus Catholic Church along with Pre-Landing reenactment activities.

Come see why Ocean Springs has everything you could ask for in a community! If you already are enjoying living in Ocean Springs, be sure to come take part in celebrating your city’s history! If you have any questions about life in Ocean Springs or would like to see some of the homes available; please contact me today!

For more information regarding this coming weekend’s activities, please visit the Ocean Springs website.


Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.

Top Rated Water in Ocean Springs!

Looking for one more reason to call Ocean Springs “home”? How about perfect water! Recently the City of Ocean Springs Water System received a perfect rating from the Mississippi Department of Health. This is the 6th year in a row that this Mississippi Gulf Coast gem has received a perfect score.

This recognition does not come about by chance, but takes dedication to excellence, which can be found in everything that the Ocean Springs does. Ratings are based on technical, managerial and financial review in which the city received a perfect 5 out of 5 score in each category. This means that the city department is on the cutting edge with water treatment processes and chemical balances. It also means the city has a system in place for recording water loss, has short term and long term plans for further improvement.

The city of Ocean Springs leaves no stone unturned. It’s commitment to residents and quality of life is what makes it such a wonderful place to live. If you have been considering a move to Ocean Springs, I’d love to help! You may have questions regarding neighborhoods, homes and the community and I feel that my time spent in this great city and keen knowledge of the Ocean Springs Housing Market will allow me to answer any questions you have!

Thanks for taking the time to stop by! For more information on Ocean Springs or to see some of the great homes for sale, feel free to visit my website. I hope to hear from you soon!


Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.

Top 10 Things to Know Before Buying Your Ocean Springs Home!

“What are the top 10 things to know before buying a house?” This seems to be a question on many peoples’ minds, especially given the current market conditions. Being a Realtor in the Mississippi Gulf Coast area for over twenty years has provided my team and I with some great insight into those things that you need to know or take into consideration before buying.

1. Buy if You Plan on Staying- If you are in a transitional stage in life or if your job has you moving every year or two; it’s best not to buy. Oftentimes buying and then trying to sell within a year or two means you will be losing money.

2. Gather Your Credit Information- A few months before you begin looking for a home, make sure you have copies of your credit report. More than likely you will need a home mortgage to buy so it’s good to gather information and verify it is correct.

3. Buy Only What You Can Afford- This has been a major problem as we see homes going into foreclosure all over the country on a daily basis. The general rule is to buy no more than two and a half times your yearly salary.

4. Search Out Your Loan Options- Even if you aren’t able to afford the normal 20% down on a home, there are many public and private lenders who can offer loans with as little as 3% down.

5. Pay Attention to Schools- Home values can greatly increase or decrease depending on the schools in the area. Be sure to buy in a good school district and when you decide to sell your home; the process will be much easier.

6. Seek Out a Professional– There are some great websites out there for helping in your home search, and if you would rather find a handful of options through the internet- that’s great! Just be sure to contact a local Ocean Springs Realtor who can help with all of the details, negotiations and who is looking out for your needs!

7. Choose Between Points and Rates- You most likely will have the option to choose between paying for points and taking a lower interest rates. Talk with your professional about which is best for you.

8. Get Approved Before Beginning Your Search– Getting pre-approved will give you an idea of the type of house you can afford. This will save you time and energy by not looking at houses that are out of your league.

9. Before Bidding, Do Your Homework- Your Realtor will help you look at the comparable homes in the Ocean Springs area and what their selling prices have been. This will give you insight into an appropriate jumping off point for bidding.

10. Hire a Home Inspector- Even though the bank will require an appraisal, it’s a good idea to hire someone who can evaluate your home for potential problems. This could save you money in the long run.

If you are looking to jump into the Ocean Springs Real Estate Market, please contact me with any questions you may have. I know the area very well and enjoy helping people make smart decisions in buying a home!

Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.

Ocean Springs- An Ideal Neighborhood!

Buying a home is an exciting time, and while you may be looking for your dream home, there is another big factor that will come into play. Your neighborhood can be a deal breaker even if your home is the one you’ve always wanted. Ocean Springs happens to be a great area in which to live, but whether you choose Ocean Springs or not; here are some things to look for when choosing a neighborhood.

1. Getting Around- Take into consideration the ease of getting to grocery stores, school or work. Test the drive at various times of the day and make sure you feel comfortable with the commute to these daily activities.

2. Schools- Even if you don’t have children in school; the school district can play a big role in the resale of your home. Of course if you do have children; schools are big factor and will want to be taken into account.

3. Community Life- Each neighborhood tends to have it’s own character. Look into the events or programs the community has to offer. What are the businesses, places of worship , theatres, hospitals, etc… that the area provides. Take a walk through the neighborhood and chat with people about their views of the community.

4. Safety- Research crime or vandalism reports for the area. Even if you find your ideal home; your safety is more important.

5. Utilities- This is oftentimes overlooked, but the types of utilities used can have a big affect on the cost. Will you be using septic system, sewer or cesspools? Is the water city or well? These are all questions you will want to consider in buying your home.

From personal experience, I can attest that the Ocean Springs community is a great living environment! From community events to caring for the environment and from great restaurants to water views, this artistic area provides it all! If you have more questions about Ocean Springs- feel free to contact me anytime!

Chester Harvey
Ocean Springs Real Estate
Ocean Springs Community News
www.ChesterHarvey.com

Chester Harvey, proudly providing superior real estate services to Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities.