Ocean Springs Blog

Summer Fun Just Beginning in Ocean Springs

2010-06-03T14:35:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-05-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-05-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about Ocean Sp rings 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!

2010-04-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-04-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-03-25T13:47:00.000-07:00

“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!

2010-03-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

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.

Ocean Springs Community Welcomes in Spring!

2010-03-09T14:27:00.000-08:00

It’s not every town that gets into the spirit of each season, but Ocean Springs always seems to find a reason to celebrate these yearly changes! There are an array of events that are helping the community welcome in the fresh air of Spring. As winter melts away and new greenery begins to show through, we are excited for all of the outdoor events and activities the warm weather brings.

One such event is the upcoming 17th Annual Herb and Garden Festival taking place on Saturday, March 27 downtown. This is a great way to enjoy all the colorful flowers and take in the scents of fresh herbs all of which are locally grown in the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Also featured are local crafters and fresh produce for you to enjoy. Filled with natures’ best, this day is accompanied by Ocean Springs musicians and is highlighted by interactive lectures. You’ll enjoy this fun way to kick off Spring as well as the chance to get to know the Oceans Springs community better!

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderful place to live and if you’re interested in learning more about Ocean Springs or the surrounding areas; let me know! I always am eager to talk to people about the place I love to call “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 Continually Moving Forward

2010-03-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

It has been over five years since the devastation of Hurricane Katrina struck the Mississippi Gulf Coast and, although tragic, the events of 2005 have brought about a deeper sense of community in Ocean Springs. Last Friday, Mayor Connie Moran affirmed the city of Ocean Springs for its support to projects that build into the city and the lives of its residents. Moran believes that this is one of the main reasons that this vibrant community has significantly advanced since Katrina struck.

During the State of Ocean Springs annual address at the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center of Arts & Association, Moran continued that "Everything is falling into place." There are many plans in place for the coming year to keep this city on the move of growth and prosperity. Moran noted that "It's important to us to gain citizen input all the way.” Community input is a key reason many love the environment of Ocean Springs as residents know that what they value and their concerns will be heard. Read the full article here.

There are many other reasons to take a second look at Ocean Springs. If you are new to the area or are considering a move to this great community- let me know! I’m here to answer any questions you may have about this Mississippi Gulf Coast area!

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.

10 Smart Tips to Know Before Buying Your Ocean Springs Home!

2010-02-23T13:28:00.000-08:00

The real estate market has changed dramatically over the past two years around the country and in Ocean Springs. While we’re optimistic about the future of real estate, there are some things you may like to know. If you’ve been in your current home for longer than two years and are looking to cash in on the current home owners’ tax credit or if you’re a first time buyer and want to take advantage of the tax credit for $8,000; that’s great! I know of great properties that I’d be happy to show you right here in Ocean Springs!

Buying a home is an exciting time, but below are ten smart tips to keep in the back of your mind as you begin this process.

1. Consider an adjustable-rate mortgage: A fixed-rate mortgage is probably the safest option for homebuying. But for people who plan to sell their homes within a few years, a hybrid ARM is worth considering.

2. Get your loan early in the year: The Federal Reserve plans to stop buying mortgage-backed securities by the end of March. Most mortgage experts believe that rates will rise when mortgages go off Fed support, as private investors require higher rates to compensate for the risk.

3. Know your credit: As the mortgage world goes back to basics, good deals require high credit scores.

4. Ask for three or four loan scenarios: Instead of focusing only on the interest rate, consider more than two combinations of discount points and loan type.

5. Refinance for the remaining term: When refinancing a 30-year mortgage, too many people start from the beginning again. When you refinance a 30-year loan that you've had for five years, pay off the new loan in 25 years. Just ask the lender to amortize the loan for the remaining period of the old loan.

6. Know your numbers: The housing boom busted more than three years ago, and still people are tempted to take on too much debt. Let the Federal Housing Administration be your guide for homebuying.

7. Small down payment? Go FHA: For people who don't have the 10%, the FHA is an option. To get an FHA-insured mortgage, you need a down payment, or equity, of at least 3.5%.

8. No down payment? Go VA or RHS: The Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees no-down payment mortgages in the VA Guaranteed Home Loan Program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Housing Service doesn't require down payments, either. Eligibility requirements apply.

9. Check rates on jumbos: For homeowners with at least 20% to 30% equity, refinancing is worth a look.

10. If you fall behind, consult a counselor: Delinquent borrowers who receive foreclosure counseling are 60% more likely to keep their homes than people who don't get counseling, according to NeighborWorks America. They also are more likely to receive mortgage modifications and lower payments. Read more on realestate.msn.com.

I hope these tips are helpful! If you have any questions about purchasing a home in Ocean Springs; I’d be happy to answer them. My goal is to help people find the exact home they’re looking for at a price they can afford! I look forward to talking with you!

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: Good People, Good Food

2010-02-16T14:01:00.000-08:00

When people come to us looking for Ocean Springs Real Estate, they know one very important aspect of the community is good southern food. The people really make this community, and that fact holds true when it comes to our restaurants. Eating out in Ocean Springs is about great environment, friendly people and amazing food. Here are just a few of the gems that Ocean Springs has to offer...

For breakfast or brunch, The Bayview Gourmet Restaurant is a must. Menu items like "The Big Easy" or the "Horn Island Sunrise Breakfast" will have your mouth watering. Their signature sandwiches are named after nearby streets and neighborhoods, adding to the local community atmosphere.

If you have never tried, or even heard of a Lebanese/Mediterranean Restaurant, then the Phoenicia Gourmet is the perfect place to start. It specializes in amazingly fresh local seafood, you are greeted with a complimentary and bottomless platter of pita and hummus as soon as you sit down, the prices are reasonable and the service is friendly and attentive.

You can't expect anything less than finger-licking-good barbeque in Mississippi. And that's just what you'll get at The Shed. Featured on The Travel Channel and Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, The Shed has put Ocean Springs on the map. The walls are decorated with junk yard items, the restaurant is family owned and run, and every weekend you can enjoy live entertainment outside surrounded by family and friends. On top of it all, the Baby Back Ribs have been described as "out of this world."

There are so many other great places to eat in Ocean Springs. If you ever want to stop by and see what this community has to offer, I would love to show you around. Please don't hesitate to contact me.

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

Ocean Springs Celebrates the Environment by Giving Away Trees!

2010-02-09T09:51:00.000-08:00

The environment is a topic that appears to be on everyone’s mind. We sense the concern of our government through programs to clean up our cities and research to protect us from global warming. We see commercials promoting energy saving products and encouraging us to do our part. Even children are being taught in school the most effective ways to cut down on water usage and how to recycle. The city of Ocean Springs realizes the role that even one city can play in contributing to our environments’ well-being, and on February 20 we see one more example of our cities efforts.

To celebrate Arbor Day, the Ocean Springs Garden Club will be giving away trees! This special day will begin with a ceremony at 9:30 am at the Ocean Springs Civic Center which will include tips on planting and caring for trees given by city arborist, Murville Alleman . After the ceremony, Ocean Springs residents are invited outside where they will be given a tree (limit three, three gallon trees per household) or they can pick up seeds and planting information which will be distributed by the MS Renaissance Garden Foundation, Inc in the lobby. Those participating should be prepared to transport the 5-7 foot trees home. This unique event is open to the public and trees are given on a first come, first serve basis.

Ocean Springs is a people-driven community, which involves residents who care and who want to be involved. If you’ve been looking for a place to live that is involved in taking part in “going green” and a city that feels like home- look no further! I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about Ocean Springs and what makes it an ideal place to live!

View more information at the ocean springs city 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.

Fresh Living in Ocean Springs!

2010-02-02T13:18:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for something fun to do in Ocean Springs on Saturday morning the Ocean Springs Fresh Market is just the thing! Enjoy the freshest fruits, vegetables and herbs, along with beautiful flowers and plants in this year-round European based market in Ocean Springs’ charming downtown. This local event also helps give back to the community as all produce and foliage are locally grown!

Meet the people who put the hard work and care into growing the finest flowers, plants and crops in the region. Bring your family, friends or your dog (who will, of course receive doggie treats!) for a relaxed and enjoyable Saturday morning!

This, along with many other community events is what makes Ocean Springs a great place to call “home.” If you have been searching for a new place to live or are just looking for a new home in Ocean Springs; let me know! I’d enjoy the opportunity to show you some of great homes that meet your needs and budget as well as showing you around the community. I look forward to meeting you!

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.

Let Me Introduce You to My Ocean Springs Blog!

2010-01-15T13:41:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Ocean Springs Blog! Written by the Chester Harvey Homeselling Team, who has been in the real estate business since 1988, serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast Communities of Ocean Springs, Biloxi, Gautier, Vancleave, D'Iberville and St. Martin.

Tune in for exciting posts on real estate, new listings, community news and MORE!

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.