Flynn Park Elementary is a part of the School District of University City. Located at 7222 Waterman in U City it is, as you might have guessed, close to Flynn Park – a 6 acre neighborhood park that features 5 tennis courts and a playground. Flynn Park’s test scores are few points higher than the state’s average in grades 3-5.
Several reviews of the school noted that the diversity was one of the greatest assets found within and around the school’s community. Here’s a review from a parent found on GreatSchools.org:
We have several children enrolled at Flynn Park and we feel so blessed to be a part of this school community. The teachers are enthusiastic about learning, and the principal is a huge supporter of positive reinforcement for all children. We really like the diverse community that defines Flynn Park, and we like the neighborhood feel of the school – both during school hours and after. Our kids, all different learning levels and strengths, are challenged and encouraged based upon their interests, strengths, and abilities. The teachers are willing to meet and discuss our concerns whenever we feel the need, and have always set our concerns at ease or have readily suggested solutions to our issues. WE LOVE OUR SCHOOL!
Flynn Park looks like a proficient and inclusive school that draws its students from terrific neighborhoods. Here are the school disctrict’s boundaries:
Here are 5 homes that are on the market in Flynn Elementary’s district:
(c.) 1919 stately two and a half story in Ames Place welcomes you with a wide front porch. A gracious foyer sets the stage for the center hall plan. To the left is the bright spacious living room with fireplace and to the right the formal dining room.
Both rooms feature hardwoods, crown molding and arched doorways. The classic white kitchen has plenty of counter space with a BREAKFAST bar and features new(er) stainless appliances. BUTLER’S PANTRY offers extra storage.
HALF BATH on the first floor is great for guests. The second floor has two large bedrooms and a MASTER SUITE.
The third floor is home to the fourth bedroom and full bath. This makes great guest quarters or informal FAMILY ROOM. With a large lot and 2 car garage this home is a must see!
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Other Properties in the Flynn Elementary School community:
After looking at dozens and dozens of homes, we were shown this home as an afterthought. Once I stepped out of the car, saw the unique cape-cod style, mature trees, fairy tale backyard and then… the railroad, my heart melted. Jason and I both come from railroad families. We were raised with the love and awe of the powerful majesty of the American Railroad. We were so excited to stand on the edge of the easement and see our first train go by.
Once inside the house, it is incredibly rare that you can hear the trains. All of the owners of 340 have taken great care to preserve the cozy story of this home. We know this because we receive Christmas cards from the family that owned this home during the 70’s and 80’s, they now live just a few streets over in Tuxedo Park (no one ever wants to leave this neighborhood!).
This neighborhood is magical. As we have taken our daily walks, greeting neighbors and meeting dogs, we have become connected in a very special way. The streets are filled with beautifully preserved examples of American architecture, many of them “Century Homes”. Everyone walks the neighborhood, making it an environmentally thinking community that wants to stay green and healthy.
We’ve put thousands of hours of sweat and joy into this home. I am going to miss snowy nights in front of the fireplace, the morning sounds of school-bound children and summer sunsets watching the trains while grilling. The amount of pride that comes from living in this special of a neighborhood won’t come from anywhere else.
We wish you all the joy that this house has given us, and more!
My clients go to great lengths to get their homes ready for sale. Some spend several weekends packing, de-cluttering and organizing. And it seems as soon as the home is photo-ready, the owner says “I wish I had done these things for myself”
Well, here is one thing that will help you sell, but please don’t leave it until it’s time to list: Closet Organizers!
Whether you get do-it-yourself racks from the Container Store or call St. Louis Closet Company for a custom solution an organzied closet provides a space everything.
Lack of storage space is one of the biggest complaints that buyers have. In fact, it could be the deal breaker for people touring a smaller city home. So this will not only make your life easier it WILL help you sell your home when the time comes.
Ames Place: Could there be a better location in University City? Want a neighborhood where residents block off the street for volleyball games on Sunday nights? Would you like to walk to a lecture at Wash U? Walk to a class at COCA? Order dinner from any number of restaurants just block from the house or see a movie at the Tivoli? Well, here you go!
This gorgeous 4 bedroom home on a beautiful tree-lined street in the heart Ames Place is Coming Soon so stay tuned!
A little history that I took verbatim from the neighborhood website:
In contrast to nearby University City neighborhoods (including Parkview, University Heights Number One, and University Hills), where the majority of houses were built by individual owners for their own occupancy, Ames Place was constructed primarily by developers large and small who were confident that they could sell the houses they were building in such an attractive neighborhood….In several cases two or more houses were built to the same plan, but there is little sense of repetition because the houses are given individuality by changes in materials and detailing….More important to the unity of the neighborhood are the characteristics of size, scale, materials, and ornament shared by many houses built by different contractors.
What do these two places have in common? Nothing really except both sound lovely when said with a British accent. Now, try saying this as if you were a Grantham:
“I live at 5235 Windsor Parkway. It’s quite lovely and park facing. Do join me for a spot of tea sometime”
(c.)1937 this home is in an ideal location just minutes from Forest Park, Clayton, Delmar Loop and all the amenities on Manchseter in Maplewood. The outstanding craftsmanship, unique architectural details, upgraded amenities and special features must be experienced to be appreciated. First flr offer a traditional layout w/formal living rm + dining rm, UPDATED kitchen, full bath and two large bedrooms. The 2005 renovation included entire kitchen make-over w/granite countertops, all new appliances, upgraded lighting and BREAKFAST BAR. Main floor bath has a WALK-IN shower w/marble surround. FINISHED LOWER LEVEL has a large FAMILY ROOM, SPA bath with Jacuzzi whirlpool tub, laundry room and bonus room which could be used as a bedroom, office, exercise room. The back yard is expansive and fully FENCED with a large DECK and an additional PRIVATE seating area at the rear of the yard with professional landscaping. Fall 2012 NEW ROOF, siding, gutters, downspouts and fascia. One-Car GARAGE
What is A Two-Family Conversion?
This a single family home that was once a two-family (2-flat) rental property with one apartment downstairs and a second upstairs. Converting two-family buildings into single family residences has become very VERY popular in the last several years. This conversion creates a sought-after floor plan.
Here is the Equation: 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, a Kitchen that’s open to a Hearth Room (Family Room) and a Master Suite-(2 Car Garage Makes this a slam dunk)
Why Do People Like it So Much?
Two and Half Reasons: Hearth Room (Family Room) + Master Suite + Half Bath on the first floor. Ok, just a couple more reasons (extra space for an office, more closet space and first or second floor laundry)
Check out the photos of3614 Arsenal (SOLD FAST!)
Hearth Room
Master Bath
Price Range: Low $200′s to $315,000: depending on square footage and finish level.
Availability: The data above shows the sale history for two-family conversions in Tower Grove South for the last 365 days. ONLY 7. These floor plans are very popular but they don’t come on the market that often. You have to wait for a developer to buy a two-family building and complete the renovation (or wait for a resale).
Interested in this sough-after floor plan in one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods?
Call me! I have one coming on the market early this Spring. Sneak peek of the *proposed* floorplan below
December was a BUSY month. Often times people think they need to wait until Spring to list but that does not seem to be the case this year. There are people out there looking and they are ready to buy. Three of my listings were gobbled up at the end of 2012. Check them out below.
621 Elbart in Webster Groves a 2 bed, 1 bath home listed for $200,000 on November 2, was under contract by November 6 and closed by December 5th.
2614 California in Fox Park a 4 bed 2.5 bath home listed for $179,900 in September, was under contract by November 21 and closed by December 20th.
3533 Oak Hill in Tower Grove South a 3 bed 1 bath home listed for $119,900 on November 8 and was under contract by November 22 and is set to close this week.
Why is this happening?
Rates are LOW which is great for buyers. For Sale inventory is also LOW which is good for sellers. NOW is the time list. Call me today if you would like the same results as the homes above!
When you call the number on the For Sale sign, you are calling the person who represents the seller. The seller’s agent’s job is to SELL that house for the HIGHEST possible sale price. If you are serious about purchasing a home, it is best to find a Realtor who will agree to represent you exclusively.
Misconception: A buyer’s agent is expensive
Reality: Buyer representation is FREE to the buyer. When a seller contracts with a listing agent, the seller is agreeing to pay a total commission to the seller’s agent. When a seller’s agent enters a listing in the MLS, that agent is agreeing to cooperate with whoever represents the buyer and therefore will pay the buyers agent from a portion of the total commission.
Misconception: I will save money if I do all the legwork myself
Reality: You can run yourself ragged calling different signs and trying to coordinate your own showings with the various sellers and agents. You will want to look at many many houses before making a decision. By retaining a buyer’s agent, you will have someone to who can coordinate multiple showings in a short period of time on your timeline. If you call the agent for each individual listing you will have to work on their timelines and meet them at the property when it is convenient for them. What do you save by coordinating your own showings? NOTHING. What does the seller’s agent gain? DOUBLE COMMISSION all while performing her fiduciary responsibility to the seller and providing no representation to you.
Misconception:All the information I want is on Zillow, Why do I need a Buyer’s Agent?
It is true there is a ton of information on the web. But when you are about to make the BIGGEST investment of your life, you need more than information. You need KNOWLEDGE. You can check the Zestimate. But did you know that on a 4-Star rating system Zillow only gives itself a single star on its ability to predict value? A buyers’s agent can help you find true comparable properties and recommend a negotiation strategy based on recent data. Can Zillow, write a persuasive letter to the seller and seller’s agent explaining why the listing price is too high? No, but your buyer’s agent can! (Please ask me for an example of how I use recent and accurate data to support my client’s offer price)
A good buyer’s agent will not SELL you anything. A good buyer’s agent will help you evaluate the inventory, teach you what to look for in each house and use all the tools in her arsenal to help you negotiate the best price and terms for you. Once under contract a good buyer’s agent will suggest inspectors and mortgage brokers and can help you evaluate insurance options. A good buyer’s agent will get you from contract to close seamlessly all while paying attention to contract details and timelines and keeping your earnest money safe. A good buyer’s agent will not rush into a sale but will help you find the right home.
Interview several agents and ask a lot of questions. And, please, put me on our list. I regularly meet with prospective buyers for a FREE buyer consultations.
A St. Charles County family was awarded $472,000 after suing the former owners of their home for failure to disclose a brown recluse infestation
2. SELLER’S remorse does exist and it is pretty expensive.
Per the SLAR “Residential Sale Contract” buyers have several opportunities to mutually release from a contract while performing their due diligence. However, once a seller accepts a contract, that’s it. If they decide they don’t want to sell, they can be sued for non-performance.
3. What often sounds like old news to me is front page material for some clients: Buyer Representation is FREE!
Additionally, tax abatement can save you up to $150-$200 on your monthly payment. Which means you can shop in a higher price range and keep your monthly costs the same.
4. SHORT sales are anything but short, and closing one is a gamble.
Closing two back-to-back in a move-up buyer situation is a MIRACLE . But it can be done.
5. On a 4-star rating system Zillow only gives itself 1 star regarding its Zestimate for homes in St. Louis.
Seller’s Market? Maybe not. But an appropriately priced clean, well updated and nicely appointed home in a desirable location will get A LOT of attention.
7. In terms of helping my clients understand the market whether on the buying or selling side of things, my undergraduate in Education is just as valuable as my Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Real Estate Development.
8. Non-owner occupant rehabber financing is back and that means we are going to start seeing certain neighborhoods take off again.
9. The perfect house exists but it’s just in someone else’s price range.
Whether you are shopping in the 100k price range or are closer to the million dollar mark, the available housing stock will not live up to your every expectation. Inevitiably you will wish House A’s floor plan had House B’s kitchen. But, with a little patience and fair amount of looking you will find the right place to call home.
10. Sweet baby girls can really soften up a city inspector.
Most Fridays I put together a list of open houses, but this time of year there are simply less open houses to write about. That’s ok, because there’s something else to get you out and about and enjoying this great city and region: Holiday Lights! I’ve found a couple of great hints around the internet to share here, but your best bet is to get out and about and go on a light hunting adventure of your own.
StLouis.About.com tells us, “Go a little wild this holiday season with Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo. If you’ve never been to the zoo on a winter evening, this is a real treat. Walk through the exhibits as they come alive with more than 500,000 lights (see pictures of the display). Kids can hear holiday stories and adults can do a little shopping at the Holiday Zootique. Wild Lights is open from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $4 for Zoo members and $5 for non-members. Children under two get in free. There is also free parking at the Zoo’s South Lot.” Open daily now through Dec 30!
Again, StLouis.About.com writes, “For 27 years, employees with the St. Louis County Parks Department have turned Tilles Park into a Winter Wonderland. You can drive through the display, but the best way to see the lights is by horse-drawn carriage. Winter Wonderland is open daily from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., except for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Cars are welcome Sunday through Friday, but Saturdays are reserved for carriage rides. Admission is $10 per car. Tickets for carriage rides are available through MetroTix, and vary depending on the size of the carriage.”
An RFT article from last year wrote of the 6500 block of Murdoch, also known as Candy Cane lane, ” it’s expected that if you live on the street, you decorate your house for Christmas. This year [2011] only two homeowners on the block are playing the role of Scrooge, their darkened houses standing out like shuttered casinos on the Las Vegas strip.” The same article quoted a neighborhood resident as saying one can expect bumper to bumper traffic from dusk until 10:30pm on a Friday evening – so plan to take a warm drink and some holiday cookies while you crawl along candy cane lane!
Although this isn’t an open house blog, the moral of the story is the same – get out and get to know this terrific community called St Louis. There’s beauty everywhere in this town – you just have to get out and look!
Dawn Griffin Real Estate Blog
I’m an experienced Saint Louis Realtor specializing in St. Louis City as well as neighborhoods like Webster Groves, Maplewood, Clayton, University City and Ladue. With an undergraduate degree in Education and Master's in Urban Planning and Real Estate Development — I have the heart of teacher.
I have been immersed in Residential Real Estate, helping home buyers and sellers understand the market, manage the ambiguities and negotiate the best terms for themselves. I am consistently voted a 5-Star Agent by clients and featured as one of St. Louis' Best Agents in Saint Louis Magazine.
