Dawn Griffin

Saint Louis City-Focused Broker/Salesperson
GRI, e-Pro, Licensed REALTOR®

dawn@dawngriffin.com / 314.413.7086

Dawn Griffin

Neighborhoods

Flynn Park Elementary – a Community Hub in a Beautiful Neighborhood

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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.

-Grade-     -Communication Arts-     -Math-                  -Science-       (Flynn Pk Score/State Avg)

3rd                        57/46                         57/53                         N/A

4th                        59/53                         55/51                         N/A

5th                        60/53                        58/55                         54/52

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:
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Here are 5 homes that are on the market in Flynn Elementary’s district:
Featured Listing – 6911 Pershing: $419,900 – 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Bath6911Pershing-003
(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.

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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.

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 HALF BATH on the first floor is great for guests. The second floor has two large bedrooms and a MASTER SUITE.
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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:
7046 Pershing: $399,000 – 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bath
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7467 Stratford: $419,000 – 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bath
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557 Warren: $549,000 – 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bath
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533 Purdue: $595,000 – 4 Bedrooms, 2 full/2 half Bath 533PurdueSample

 

If you’d like to see any of these homes surrounding Flynn Park Elementary, give me a call!  I’d be happy to show off the neighborhood! -Dawn-

 

340 Newport in Webster OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, March 3, 2013 from 1-3PM

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A Note from the Sellers:

To the next owner of 340 Newport Avenue,

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!

 

 

 

Get Organized! Make the Most of Your Closets

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.

Photos below courtesy of St. Louis Closet Company

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Coming Soon: Ames Place, 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath and 2 Car Garage

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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.

Like Downton Abbey? Then You Will Love Windsor Parkway

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”

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(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

 

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The Coveted 2-Family Conversion in Tower Grove South

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 of
3614 Arsenal (SOLD FAST!)

Hearth Room

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Master Bath

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Price Range: Low $200′s to $315,000: depending on square footage and finish level.
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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
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Open Houses in Northampton & Southampton Sunday Dec. 16, 2012

This week I invite you to visit 5 fine homes found in St Louis’ Northampton and Southampton neighborhoods.  That places these homes close to plenty of shopping opportunities, quick interstate access,  and both Tilles and Francis Parks!  The weather looks to be sunny with a high of 55 – so get out and explore some of the great homes South St Louis city has to offer.  If you need any help, you know who to call!

5661 Eichelberger12-2pm.  5661 Eichelberger.  3 bed, 2 bath.  “This 3 bed, 2 baths, with garage has just completed a fresh renovation and won’t last long. You will first notice the low maintenance landscaping in the front of the home, the inside features refinished wood floors, dining room, and large great room with a beautiful fireplace flanked by the original stain glass windows. The main level has 2 bedrooms, an updated bath, and a completely new kitchen with tile floors, stone backsplash, custom cabinets, and new appliances. Walk upstairs to the large master suite with plenty of closet space, new carpet and another full updated bath with tile floors and tile shower surround. Additional updates include 2 panel doors, upgraded baseboard, newer energy efficient windows, upgraded electrical service with 200amp and circuit breakers, and a partially fenced rear yard with tuck under garage.” $169,900


5754 Mardel1-3pm.  5754 Mardel.  3 bed, 2 bath.  “(c.) 1939: Have you ever stayed at a high-end, luxury hotel & found yourself saying, “If only I could live like this everyday”? Well, here’s your chance! Forward-thinking developers have “popped-the-top” on this art deco bungalow & transformed it into a multi-level, modern piece of art! Found in the popular & extremely walkable Northampton neighborhood, this home “lives large” on the inside (in all senses of that phrase)! With 3 large bedrooms (one being a 23×12 master suite w/sitting room, walk-in closet & STUNNING attached master bath), two AMAZING full baths, a huge open-concept family room/kitchen, EXQUISIT finishes/fixtures, a perfect layout and a professionally FINISHED BASEMENT, this home is truly breathtaking. Too many features to list, but notable are: new 6-inch birch hardwood floors, 200-amp electrical upgrade, vent-free gas fireplace, zoned hvac, honed marble counters, gobs of amazing choices in tile / fixtures / colors. You’ll truly feel like “You’ve Arrived”… so HURRY!“  $229,900.  Being shown by my good friend and fellow Circa Realtor (& Broker), Christopher Thiemet.

5233 Lansdowne

1-3pm. 5233 Lansdowne Ave.  4 bed, 3 bath.  “Gorgeous and rare two and a half story home with clay tile roof in a very desirable neighborhood. Stunning after rehabbed! Approx. 2000 sq ft of living space. Large front porch. Newer plumbing, electric, zoning heating & cooling system, light fixture, & newer oak hardwood floors on first and second floor. First floor include a open large Living/dining room combo w/a lot of wood work, a full bath & bedroom as well as eat in kitchen w/newer costume cabinets and all newer stainless steal appliances (stove, refrigerator dishwasher and microwave). 2nd floor include two bedrooms with hardwood flooring, a lot of closets, and two bathrooms. The master bathroom has a Jacuzzi. There is another bedroom on the third floor with newer carpet. Huge private fenced back yard with new concrete patio great for entertainment. Also there is new concrete driveway as well as new concrete sidewalks.“  $239,900


3369 Sublette1-3pm.  3369 Sublette Ave.  2 bed, 1 bath.  “Updates throughout include tall baseboards, newly refinished hardwood floors, new ceramic tile, new fixtures, & neutral paint. Spacious kitchen includes a pantry, brand new black appliances, new cabinets & new fixtures! The bonus room with newer windows and built-in is a great place to relax and flows wonderfully from the kitchen for extra entertaining space! Newly stained, large deck is an extension of the bonus room, with a flat backyard and 2 offstreet parking pad spots. Large, clean,unfinished basement is awaiting your personal touch and also has extra office space around the corner from the stairs. Private bedrooms have large closets, wood floors, and tons of natural light, with a bathroom in between. There is so much character in this home and all you have to do is enjoy!” $129,000

5208 Tholozan2-4pm. 5208 Tholozan Ave.  2 bed, 1 bath.  “Stunning Gingerbread bungalow in the North Hampton neighborhood with updates galore.They include a whole new kitchen with Gallery grade Frigidaire appliances, 3cm granite counters, new ceramic tile, new window, under cabinet lighting, custom cabinets, lighting and glass tile backsplash. The bathroom is a wonderful combination of old and new with beautiful, original Vitrolite wall tiles, basket weave tile floors, and the new vanity, and amazing shower panel with full body jets and rain fall shower head.The rest of the home features gleaming newly finished hardwood floors, window treatments, new lighting, recently serviced AC, and a brand new furnace. Out back is a lovely fire pit area and plenty of room for entertaining family and friends. The garage is big enough to keep most full sized cars, and possibly the SUV, out of the elements. The city has also just completed a new sewer connection in the alley.” $157,900.

Thanks for your time – happy exploring!

Featured Listing: 3902 Utah The First of the Utah Gustine Townhomes

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3902 Utah is the first of the Utah Gustine renovations. In total there will be 6 townhomes and one single family renovation on this block.

Each home offers luxury and convenience in one of St. Louis’ best neighborhoods. At the corner of Utah and Gustine this home is within walking distance of all the restaurant on S. Grand. Park your car in the secured and covered Garage-Port and enjoy this WALKABLE neighborhood on foot. High-end finishes plus attention to detail are unmatched in this price range. Chef’s kitchen features 42-inch cabinets, Cambria solid surface counters and full stainless appliance package. Half bath and Laundry Room are on 1st flr. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms one w/BALCONY, one with FRENCH DOORS and a MASTER with built-in custom closet. Subway tile surround in shower, hex floor tile + dual vanity accent the full bath.

These homes have been completely rebuilt and are just like new construction with all new electric, plumbing supply lines, PVC waste stacks, and zone HVAC. The waterlines to the street are new as well as the lateral lines to sewer main. Roof and complete exterior tuck-pointing 2012.

These units are TAX ABATED at only  $150/annually. Seller to pay $3500 towards buyer’s closing costs! Garage can be built instead of garage-port.

COMING SOON:
3900 Utah, a single family home with 3 beds, 2.5baths and 2-car parking.

3906 Utah a townhome with 3 beds, 1.5 baths and 2-car parking

3908 Utah a townhome with 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 2-car parking

3910 Utah a townhome with 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 2-car parking

3912 Utah a townhome with 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 2-car parking

Open Houses with the Perk of Parks – 11/18/12

This week I wanted to share four great St Louis City homes that are near four of our city’s finest parks. This Sunday is set to be another fabulous fall day – so get out, enjoy the city’s parks, and see if you can’t find yourself a dream home!

6717 AlexanderCarondelet Park
1-3pm – 6717 Alexander St. 2 Bed, 1 Bath.  ”Welcome home to this fantastic 1920s classic Holly Hills home located 1 block to Carondelet Park. Curb appeal starts this one out right complete with stone walls, front porch stoop and classic details. Living room complete with refinished hardwoods, crown molding, great architectural details and a center stone fireplace. Dining room offers a great space for entertaining and also continues with classic details and gleaming hardwoods. Kitchen has been transformed and has tile floors, custom maple cabinets, solid counters, deluxe SS appliances and opens out into a breakfast room or den space. This room is flooded in natural light and is a great flex space. Ascend the great staircase to 2 very large bedrooms. Front bedroom with two HUGE closets, upgraded carpeting and crown molding. Rear bedroom with 2 closets and access to a private deck. Updated bathroom complete with Hollywood tub rounds out the 2nd floor. Detached 2 car garage, fenced yard and updates galore! This one is ready to go!” $182,500

3220 IndianaBenton Park
1-3pm – 3220 Indiana. 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath.  ”(c.) 1904: Stately, classic & updated Benton Park 3-story home that has been re-envisioned for modern living! Just steps away from Benton Park proper, this home greets you with handsome curb appeal and an inviting formal entry with striking waterfall staircase! The newer pine floors are a throwback to yesteryear yet give the home a modern feel. Large rooms, tall ceilings & open flow describe the foyer, formal living room, formal dining room and open concept kitchen with pantry. Main floor half bath rounds out main floor. The 2nd level, entered from the amazing staircase, features 3 bedrooms: 2 bedrooms, full bath PLUS a true master suite w/walk-in closet and large pvt bath plus balcony overlooking yard. Top level is a retreat suite with two large rooms plus 3rd full bath. Full basement, incredibly landscaped grounds w/paver patio, privacy fencing and 2-car off-street parking pad round out the equation. Updated systems throughout. Walk to park, restaurants & more! Wonderful Neighbors!” Being shown by my friend and colleague, Christopher Thiemet.  $229,900

3719 JuniataTower Grove Park
1-3pm – 3719 Juniata. 4 bed, 2.5 Bath. “This wonderful renovation in sought after Tower Grove Heights has lots to offer: a strikingly restored staircase, spacious rooms with refinished hardwood floors, charming bay windows, newer windows and beautiful mill work. The kitchen opens to the dining room with an island, and offers granite countertops and new stainless steel appliances. A master bedroom suite has its own full bath with a Jacuzzi soaker tub and there are additional bedroom suites on the second and third floors. Systems include all new plumbing and water line, updated sewer, electric, and zoned, energy efficient HVAC that keeps the entire home comfortable all year long. This home is ready for cable, satellite, internet access and has a security system. There is a full walkout basement, a large deck, fenced yard, and a 1-car garage with opener.” $249,900

5367 PershingForest Park
1-3pm – 5367 Pershing Ave #3. 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath.  ”This nearly 2600 square foot condo has been tastefully updated to meet the needs of modern living while retaining the charm of an historic building. The foyer is large with a coat closet and a half bath. Step into the living room with a wood burning fireplace, built in bookcases and hardwood floors. Enjoy your morning coffee in the front sunroom/den with the sunlight streaming in. Separate dining room with a coffered ceiling ensures plenty of space for entertaining. The kitchen has been updated with stainless appliances, granite countertops and custom cabinetry. There is a butlers pantry off the kitchen with the refrigerator and a separate freezer. The Master Bedroom suite includes a sitting area that leads to the deck, a walk-in closet and a remodeled full bath with a whirlpool tub and double sinks. Two other bedrooms and a second luxurious full bath rounds out the living space. Also included is in-unit laundry, zoned HVAC and a garage space.” $250,000

Happy home hunting – and I hope you’re looking forward to a delightful Thanksgiving! -D

Open House Guide Featuring Utah & Gustine Development – 11/11/12

3902 Utah3902 Utah – St Louis, MO 63116

$189,900 – 3 Bed, 1.5 Bath

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Please come see me and this impressive rehab project!  This spacious TGS townhouse offers luxury and convenience. At the corner of Utah and Gustine this home is adjacent to Utah Blvd and is within walking distance of all the restaurant on S. Grand.  Park your car in the Garage-Port and enjoy this WALKABLE neighborhood on foot. High-end finishes and attention to detail are unmatched in this price range. Chef’s kitchen features 42-inch cabinets, Cambria solid surface counters and full stainless appliances. 1/2 bathand Laundry Rm on 1st floor. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms one with BALCONY, one with FRENCH DOORS and a MASTER with built-in custom closet. Subway tile surround in shower, hex floor tile and dual vanity accent the full bath. All new electric, updated plumbing supply lines, PVC waste stacks, and zoned HVAC make this home like NEW (updated water line to the street, PVC lateral to the city main). Roof 2012. TAX ABATED–Only $150/annually. Seller to pay $3500 towards buyer’s closing costs! Garage can be built instead of garage-port.


While you’re in the neighborhood, check out these other great properties:

3859 Hartford1-3pm - 3859 Hartford.  4 bed, 1 bath. $165,000 (picture left)

3832 Connecticut




2-4pm – 3832 Connecticut.  3 bed, 1.5 bath. $189,900 (picture right)





and just about a mile away is a home being shown by my friend and circa colleague, Jane Q:

1-4pm – 4259 Lafayette. 3 bed, 2.5 bath. $169,9004259 Lafayette


Looks like the weather is set to be warm and cozy this Sunday – get out and find your next home!