Martin Dorgan

NAFREP Launched & Founding Members Needed

2009-03-23T13:25:00Z

Founding Members Needed & NAFREP Launched

National Association For Real Estate Professionals, Founding Members Needed

The National Association for Real Estate Prefessionals is looking for a few good Men/Women! Individuals/Companies that have ambition and insight, looking to increase their individual business, make strong connections to other professionals, expand upon their referral possibilities, connect with new contacts through Networking, and build a reciprocal relationship with their communities.

And They Need Founding Members!

It won't be an easy task! It will take dedication, drive, ambition, and the ability to think "out of the box." If you visit the NAFREP website at http://www.NAFREP.com you can read all about this new association.

Here are the links to the next webinars hosted by Brian McRae, Executive Vice President for NAFREP. You will find a wealth of information on NAFREP and AdvantageML on how they can help you build your business. Dont miss the AMP presentation if you are a real estate agent or you will miss out on a Big Secret! Each webinar is about 20 min. See you there.

Make sure you check in 10 min early and put in the audo code so you can speak. At the end of the seminar you can talk to members or prospective members and ask questions. You can also invite others to join with you. We have plenty of room for all.

AMP Monday 3-23-09 https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/793074147

NAFREP Tuesday 3-24-09 https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/976099988

AMP Wednesday 3-25-09 https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/325510266

NAFREP Thursday 3-26-09 https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/334879081

NAFREP Tuesday 3-31-09 https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/904015587

Thu, Apr 2, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/626312743

Tue, Apr 7, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/701018458

Thu, Apr 9, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/632041960

Tue, Apr 14, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/767534463

Thu, Apr 16, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/399315585

Tue, Apr 21, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/193206183

Thu, Apr 23, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/746458281

Tue, Apr 28, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/895169340

Thu, Apr 30, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/822791678

Tue, May 5, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/952393001

Thu, May 7, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/971954797

Tue, May 12, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/779558462

Thu, May 14, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/185150065

Tue, May 19, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/224444118

Thu, May 21, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/235003374

Tue, May 26, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/887481515

Thu, May 28, 2009 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM EDT
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/666116732

Once registered you will receive an email confirming your registration
with information you need to join the Webinar.

As an agent that Thinks! "Out of the Box!", and recognizes the potential, I have joined primarily for the immediate benefits, Networking! but there are additional benefits that go along with joining. I can now place listings through AdvantageML, http://www.advantageml.com/ for free. The greater the exposure for your listings the greater potential for enticing and interesting a Buyer!

So for those of you agents that are up for the challenge, and wish to "Expand Your Wings" and your Networking, come soar with the eagles, Join Today! See the benefits tomorrow and in the future!

Do You prefer Buyer's or Seller's? " I Benefit From Each, and Inturn, Benefit Each of Them!?

2009-02-20T19:09:00Z

Real Estate at least initially, doesn't really give you the option to pick and choose; a Buyer or Seller? We kind of take what we can get. But as time progresses we tend to make choices, or at least some agents tend to gravitate towards working a specialization, and even Brokerages do! Some Realtors prefer Buyer's, some prefer Seller's,....Which ever choice you make, I hope you enjoy it, and are extremely good at it.

Here are some things I learn from working with Buyer's!:

Home buyers are searching the Internet at an amazing pace! Almost 90% start their home search on the Internet, and I see that here locally in Columbus, Indiana. And by asking them "where they search on the internet, or elsewhere, can help an agent target their marketing!

Buyer perception of the Local Columbus Indiana Market, Is very important. It gives agents the ability to compare the past, to the present through statstics, or market analysis. But it also allows the agent to coach Seller's, on the Buyer's perspective coming into a home.

Today most Buyer's want and virtually demand lots of pictures! I pitty the poor agent that doesn't post pictures quickly and numerous views of a home. Virtual Tours are extremely popular. In fact, I check every new listing posted to our local Columbus Indiana MLS System every day, constantly throughout the day, just to se what the pictures reveal about a house.

Features and Amenities of a home -of course this varies widely with price ranges, local markets, and individual buyers, but trends change. This can help me understand what features should be showcased vs. those that sellers may think are positives when in fact buyers are shunning them. We can't necessarily change them but sellers must understand the issues that buyers are going to raise. Those older homes that need updating are one example, and tile counters, for two, are both good examples. We have many homes here in Columbus Indiana, some that have been updated by their owners, but some that still need to be freshened up.

Concessions AND Contingencies THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO BUYERS - again, lots of differences, but many are walking into homes immediately looking for dramatic price reductions, buyer closing costs, repairs, and more. Being able to report what the buyer pool is telling us rather than simply stating my opinion is useful for preparing sellers and adds a level of credibility. I just recently suggested that one client, take his home off the market temporarily, and correct the issues that had been brought up by potential buyers when they visited the home, during an open house or a showing.

And then there are these issues:

IMPORTANCE OF MLS ACCURACY - there are too many times buyers get really annoyed because of misrepresentation, distortion or outright lying in MLS listings. Making sure we correctly represent a home in the MLS is essential, and part of our duty to our seller clients. It's a given, IMO, but we sure see lots of problems.

EASE OF ACCESS FOR SHOWINGS - buyers get really frustrated when trying to tour homes that are tough to schedule, have limited showing hours, or need lengthy notice. They, like I, get frustrated when agents do not return calls to facilitate showings. And with short sales and other distress homes this is hard to understand. And not being able to go out in the yard because of Fido creates a problem, or worse yet, can't get into the house because of pets roaming free.

PETS AND SMELLS - buyers almost always seem to comment about being accosted by overly-friendly pets (especially dogs), smells, and dirty houses. And I have yet to find one who LIKES those smelly candles and plug-ins that are so common. If a seller really is motivated to Sell, then they should have the carpets professionally cleaned to eliminat the majority of the lingering smell of their pets.

SELLERS BEING HOME DURING SHOWINGS - buyers really dislike this, and I do, so this is a no brainer when coaching my seller clients. But it is something to keep in mind if sellers seem inclined to want to be there. It's a tough issue if someone works at home, but they can always take a break for 30 minutes, and go run an erand.

THE WAY IN WHICH BUYERS APPROACH THE PURCHASE PROCESS IN TODAY'S MARKET - they are often leary of short sales or of the process, and it generally is a long and involved process. They want to make lowball offers no matter what the CMA that the agent prepared for them indicates. They have a desire to negotiate everything, are not willing to pay full price, know they often have the upper hand, and so on. Yes, some of this does not yield the results they want, but sellers need to understand what likely will happen. And buyers are coming to the offer table armed with more information about the market, prices and comparative value. It may not always be accurate, Zillow being a case in point, but again it's their perception.

What have you leearned ?

Martin Dorgan 
Coldwell Banker 
South Central Realty 
1015 Third Street 
Columbus Indiana, 47201 
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122 
Cell:   812-603-1368 
Website:  http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com 
Active Rain Blog:  http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan 
XING Network: http://www.xing.com/go/invita/11704402 
Spectacular Results!  That's what you want! That's what you deserve!  

That's what you really want, Right? 

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price.  

You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right! 

Well You've Come To The Right Place!    

You want Martin Dorgan as Your Realtor!

Networking With Other Realtors®/Agents!

2009-02-20T18:41:00Z

What are You Doing? For Greater Exposure to Increase Referrals!(part#1)

As a Point2 member I often come across information that I believe will benefit other members!

Consequently I've written this posting! Read through it and you will increase your knowledge,

your connections, and your networking capability.

After all, that's what it's all about! Presenting Seller's with the greates exposur for their listing!

And bringing more buyers to view the home, and potentially selling it, for you and the Seller!

As a Realtor®/agent, marketing strategist and sales person, living and working
here in Columbus, Indiana. I find Real Estate to be very interesting, very
rewarding and very full filling as a career. What I find though, is that the
majority of my counter-parts/peers may soon fade into the sunset. The majority
of them are good, potentially great agents, and I commend them for that.

However in a competitive marketplace, being "good" will only cut it, for so
long. Agents have to be current or better still, on the forefront of
technology, Think! "Out of the Box!", and find ways to Brand themselves as
Unique!

One of the first items in my list of planned marketing, was to get my name
"Martin Dorgan" out there in the public eye, and in the face of other Brokers
and agents, because the exposure would only increase the potential for
additional business; maybe not initially but in the future! One of the sites I
joined initially is Broker Agent Professional, which I revisit from time to
time, especially their referral agent page. This time I noted something of
interest; which made me think! About a comment I here often while researching
Real Estate topics on the Internet:"5% of Agents, do 90% of the Business!"

It's No Wonder Why! 5% of Agents, do 90% of the Business! Look at the apathy in
agents participating and signing up with Broker Agent Professionals 30% Referral
Network.

United States
Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois,
Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, New
Mexico, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South
Carolina ,Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming. (28 states
represented out of 52, any not noted, have no representation from an agent or
broker)

Canada

Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan.(Out of
the 12 Provinces only 6 have agent or broker representation)

The Broker/Agent 30% Referral Directory
Here you will find only the finest real estate professionals throughout the
United States and Canada.

Rest easier knowing your client is in the hands of a true professional...

- Pre-Screened and Endorsed by Broker/Agent
- Only one professional is chosen per city or marketing area
- Members promise you a 30% buyer side referral fee

Statistics on the average representative in this directory:

- Licensed for 7-10 years
- Over 20 annual transaction sides per year
- Over $5 million in annual sales per year
- Have lived over 7 years in the city they are representing
- Are in the top 20% of producing real estate professionals in their area

I imagine the 90% plus Brokers/Agents don't need the potential business that
could be achieved through this network. Or Maybe they aren't aware of it? But
possibly they don't want to increase their current expenditure, because it's not
free! Each to his own it's a personal choice? But "ONE" referral over the
period of a year would pay for it.

We, as Realtors®/Brokers or Agents are rewarded by what we put into our
careers, be it, new prospects, new contacts, SOI contacts or Referrals from our
fellow agents across the Nation, or our current clients passing along a
recommendation to their family, friends, co-workers, or neighbors.

Take advantage of every source available to you! Including contacts made through
a new real estate network AdvantageML(which offers free placement of listings!) or NAFREP.

http://www.advantageml.com

http://www.nafrep.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=77

NAFREP PowerPoint Presentation: http://www.nafrep.com/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=125

NAFREP is a new organization, still in it's infancy, but it presents a great concept that isn't that far in the future!

Just imagine the possibilities??? of joining a an organization from start up!

It's like being offered a chance at an IPO for a stock! Maybe not a good analogy in today's market,...

But you will get the idea! If you take that first baby step, and check it out.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Active Rain Blog: http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan
XING Network: http://www.xing.com/go/invita/11704402
Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve!
That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price.
You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least
hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!
You want Martin Dorgan as Your Realtor!

Have You Expanded Your Wings? Reached For New Horizons?

2009-01-27T16:48:00Z

Have you Expanded Your Wings? Reached For New Horizons?

Have you Expanded Your Wings? Reached For New Horizons?

I'm an agent that tends to try and be at the forefront, leading edge, its a way of setting myself apart, from all the other agents out there. And especially in the state of our National Economy and the effect it is having on our Real Estate Market. Columbus Indiana isn't fairing too bad, we are only down roughly 6% year to year in total production and units sold, which is better than some areas are experiencing. Even our own county, Bartholomew County is down 13.75%.

Consequently like any good or smart agent I continue to Expand My Wings, and proactively search out new venues to Network within. I just happened to locate one the other day, while being proactive!

It is the XING network! Click on this link and you will get an invitation from me! XING Network: http://www.xing.com/go/invita/11704402

Just to let you know, the first thing I did was to search "ActiveRain", thinking I might run into fellow members, Wrong! After searching through various groups I have found a few, but very few!

Seeing this opportunity! I instantly wrote about "ActiveRain". So I expect to see more of you venturing forth and joining XING, preferably through the link I provided.

An Opportunity Lost, is an Opportunity Wasted! Maybe you are searching for Relocation connections, maybe making connections in other countries, maybe you're looking for Investors? It doesn't make any difference what you're reason is, check it out!

Feel free to make me your 1st Contact, and expand from there! Who knows you might find what you are looking for?

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com/
Active Rain Blog: http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan
XING Network: http://www.xing.com/go/invita/11704402

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

You want Martin Dorgan as Your Realtor!

It's a Sad State of Affairs" or is it "Opportunity Knocking?"

2009-01-08T18:56:00Z

It's a "Sad State of Affairs" or Is "Opportunity Knocking!" Written by Martin Dorgan , Real Estate Professional in Columbus Yes!, even here in Columbus Indiana, where the housing market and Real Estate, have been minimally affected by the down turn in the economy, up until recently! But is it a "Sad State of Affairs?", or is, "Opportunity Knocking!", a question that is not so easily answered. When people ask me, I say "It's sad for some and opportunistic...(read more)

There's a Silver Lining in Every Cloud

2009-01-08T18:52:00Z

There's a Silver Lining in Every Cloud?

Written by Martin Dorgan, Real Estate Professional in Columbus

December 18, 2008 11:38 AM Quality of Life in Columbus

No comments

3 views

The "Nation's Economy" Just had a New Victim!

Columbus Indiana has had a relatively, easy transition through the current economic downturn, up until recently. Sure this time of year is slow, the market tends to stagnate somewhat,.... And I know that according to statistics it's taking homes longer to sell, and there are fewer buyers.

Friend's of mine just suffered a nasty blow to their quality of life, the pending deal on their 2nd home, which had been up for sale untill 2 weeks ago, Just Fell Through! It's very unfortunate, not only for my friend's, but the buyer's as well.

I'm sure my friend's had already made plans for their funds, like remodelling their current home. But can you imagine the disappointment the Buyer's are feeling? Not only do they not get to move into their pending new home which they were looking forward to with great anticipation. But now they no longer qualify, because he lost his job, due to the economic turmoil within our financial market. Very unfortunate at this time of year with Christmas just around the corner!

I'm not a huge supporter of "Bailing Out" companies, especially the "Big 3 Automakers", who have concistently manged to operate in the RED, and amass huge debt.

But if Congress, the Senate, and President Bush doesn't act soon, there will be more friend's, client's, prospect's, buyer's and seller's, neighbours,and family members, left crying, disappointed and depressed.

The only good news to come out of this little exerpt, is that I will now get to list my friend's home, and with my marketing skills, hopefully get it "SOLD!" quicker than the previous agent, whom I'm sure tried diligently.

Visit me on the web at http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com and watch for my friend's home which will appear soon. It's a great home, with two bedrooms,living room w/fireplace,eat in kitchen, and a large family room( The family room could easily be converted to a third bedroom and still have a family room adjacent to the kitchen.

Executive Estate For Sale in Shelby County

2009-01-08T18:32:00Z

Executive Estate with 16 Acres

• single story - MLS® $995,900 - Greatly Reduced

Shelby County, Indiana - Executive Estate with 16 Private acres, 30 minutes south of Indianapolis. This Designer Home has 6000 Sq. Ft. of living space utilizing New Construction while maintaining the character of 1863 Brick Home.
Features and Benefits include Large Inviting rooms, 10 ft. ceilings, Crown Molding, Natural light, Incredible Views, 5 Bedrooms each with private bathroom, Great Room, Hearth Room, Dining Room, Huge Kitchen with 14 ft. Island, Granite Countertops, Custom Cabinets, Hardwood Floors, Master Suite with private Study, Morning Room, Exercise Room, Famil Room, 2 Laundry Rooms.
Potential as Private Estate, Horse Farm, Bed & Breakfast?
Additional Acreage Available- 3 acres to 36 acres.
This Home is Agent Owned, Pre-Approval Buyers Only!

Property information

Tipton Lakes Neighborhoods

2008-03-12T23:20:00Z

Columbus Indiana has many beautiful and highly sought after and desired neighborhoods, TIPTON LAKES is just one of the premiere areas of Columbus Indiana, that happens to have many smaller neighborhoods encompassed within.

Tipton Lakes Neighborhoods:

Family Neighborhoods

Tipton Lakes offers family life where the children playing can often be heard and seen, in their own backyards, or in the neighborhood park. Each neighborhood is a contributing factor, with unique benefits and a quality living environment for families to enjoy and grow.

Greystone
Greystone is one of Tipton Lakes family neighborhoods. Located just south and west of Oakbrook. Greystone residents are conveniently located to Oakbrook City Park. Via the pedestrian path system's connection, children can easily make their way to the Park, and join in the fun! For details on properties or homes currently available for sale, contact Martin Dorgan, Coldwell Banker South Central Realty (812) 603-1368

Oakbrook
Conveniently located Oakbrook City Park offers a basketball court, a small fishing pond, play equipment and an open field for enjoyment. Oakbrook is an excellent neighborhood for young families.

Blackhawk

Blackhawk neighborhood features winding streets, wooded ravines, and is just south of the marina. It's ideal for growing families that love to be close to nature and near the amenities at the Marina, including swimming and rental boats.

Butternut Pond
Butternut Pond, surrounds a beautiful pond and fountain. Families enjoy fishing at the pond and the neighborhood often sponsors activities including a holiday lights display.

Lexington Green
If you are a nature enthusiast, the lots in Lexington Green are designed for you, with the country in mind. Lexington Green homeowners, who are Association members, enjoy all the amenities of Tipton Lakes. Residents love the aesthetic beauty and seclusion of rolling hills and spacious lots. These homes enjoy a rural setting, located on 2 acre lots just outside the city limits, in the County of Bartholomew. Lexington Green, initial membership into the Association is elected not automatic! Because Lexington Green, preceeded Tipton Lakes development. Please contact the Association Office for more details.

Harrison Ridge
The Harrison Ridge family neighborhood is home to a Woman's Day award winning house. Designed by architectural student Chris Fye, this contemporary bungalow won a competition jointly sponsored by the University of Illinois School of Architecture and Woman's Day magazine. Boasting a 1920s style wrap-around porch, the homeowners look out to a peaceful, family neighborhood in the heart of Tipton Lakes.

Westlake Park
Walking or driving into the Westlake Park neighborhood, is like stepping into the past. With its white picket fences and welcoming front porch designs, Westlake Park exemplifies the best qualities of yesteryear. These homes were built by James Shoaf Construction, they are perfect for busy professionals, young families, or retirees. Lots are still available for your custom built home. Contact Martin Dorgan, with Coldwell Banker South Central Realty, and Martin will be pleased to help you select your lot, and set an appointment with Mr.Shoaf to discuss your needs in order to build your dream home in a great American neighborhood.

Winterberry Place
Winterberry Place is an upscale neighborhood nestled among tall pine trees. Winterberry Place is located at Goeller Blvd., and Tipton Lakes Boulevard, one of the first access entrances to Tipton Lakes. The homeowners enjoy privacy along with the connectivity of the pedestrian path system to all Tipton Lakes amenities.

Tipton Lakes Waterfront Neighborhoods

Westlake Hills
One of Tipton Lakes newest single-family home developments on Westlake, boasts rolling hills and spectacular views of the country side hills. Westlake has oversized lots and beautiful landscaping that will give great character to this neighborhood. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

Turtle Bay
Beautifully landscaped with a panoramic view of Northlake surround Turtle Bay homes. Accented, with pine trees, and beautiful lake views. The "community turtle" mini-park offers an attractive gathering spot for neighbors. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

Waterside
Waterside, features waterfront lots available on Westlake, offers fourteen spacious lots and beautiful views of the countryside tree-lined hills. Waterside is the perfect setting for those wanting to build on an estate size lot, a gorgeous Custom Built Home in an exclusive neighborhood. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

The Preserve
Another of Tipton Lakes' newest neighborhoods, The Preserve, is made up of eight waterfront lots on the east shores of Westlake, and will consist of similarly designed Custom Luxury Homes. These Custom Luxury Homes at lakeside are designed with the "empty nester" in mind. Home ownership concerns are eased by common landscaping and lawn maintenance services. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

Northlake Shores
Northlake Shores, is an established neighborhood within Tipton Lakes, most established neighborhoods, offering private tennis courts and a mini-park, right at the edge of the lake. The western view across Northlake is spectacular, especially at sunset to dusk with the skies changing hues of color. Providing, the avid photographer and romantic, visions of unbelievable splendor.

Pintail Point
Pintail Point offers spacious, floor plans and a quiet setting, located on the east side of the canal to Westlake, Pintail Point homeowners enjoy connection to the entire lake system, a benefit for those that like to paddle along the waterways. It is the perfect neighborhood for busy professionals.

Stonebridge
Stonebridge is located on Eastlake near the stone arch bridge. There is a beautiful mini-park welcoming homeowners, boasting a variety of perennials and a cozy park bench, at Stonebridge's entrance.

Shoreview
Shoreview is a small neighborhood of seven homes with a beautiful view of Eastlake. Located across the street from Harrison Ridge City Park, Shoreview offers many recreational opportunities within easy access..

Mallard Point
There are twelve architecturally designed homes making up Mallard Point's neighborhood. This cohesive neighborhood of homes with natural cedar siding and stone or brick accents, also offers gorgeous views of Eastlake.

Shadow Bay
Shadow Bay homes offer lower level walkouts to wonderful beaches and views of Eastlake. Owners here get the benefit of uniquely designed, zero lot line, spacious homes, and low maintenance.

Northlake Woods
Northlake Woods offers private, wooded lots, tree-lined lots, mature trees, and large waterfront lots, Northlake Woods offers a secluded area with beautiful Custom Designed Homes.

Timber Ridge
Timber Ridge, is home to hundreds of native dogwood trees wonderfully placed within the wooded ravines. Homeowners have encountered deer along their property lines-a welcomed reminder of the beauty of nature. For a very lucky few, there are 12 waterfront lots at Timber Ridge, adding to the aesthetic beauty of their home ownership.

Pintail Landing
Pintail Landing offers wooded lots along beautiful Northlake. The Custom Built Homes in Pintail Landing complement the mature tall trees and soft pines.

Fontana
Fontana offers attached single-family homes, spacious, large, and well designed. With all of the benefits of lakefront living, these exclusive homes are charming.

If you would like additional information concerning any of the neighborhoods encompassed within the Tipton Lakes area, feel free to call, I will respond with an answer to your querrie.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com

http://www.martinsellscolumbus.com

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Tipton Lakes A Distinctive and Sought After Community In Columbus Indiana

2008-03-12T23:06:00Z

Tipton Lakes

Tipton Lakes stands among the elite, as one of the finest of Indiana’s planned residential communities, located on the western outskirts of the city of Columbus Indiana. Sprawling over 1200 acres of beautiful rolling hills, with three man-made lakes totaling 120 acres, that are inter-connected via waterways and canals.

The residents enjoy a sense of tranquility, embraced by the natural vegetation that has been preserved and protected. There are lush green wooded areas with dogwoods, oak, evergreen, pine and maple trees.

The area of Tipton Lakes encompasses many smaller neighborhoods with their own distinctive name, characteristics, benefits and appeal, for anyone wishing an exclusive lifestyle. Many different home styles have been created, surely something for everyones taste, from apartments, condominiums, single family homes to Million dollar custom built homes.

You can walk through this community along paths, over bridges, stopping for a brief rest on a park bench, shaded by the canopy of tall pines, or maybe just laying on the grass, watching the small craft traverse through the canals.

Tipton Lakes has many amenities to offer each and every one of its residents. Including, a full scale Athletic Club, a Marina, the Harrison Ridge City Park, the Oakbrook City Park, and much, much, more.

There is an active, and strong Association, with a Board of Directors, committees, representing the homeowners, together with a professional staff, the common areas are well maintained and managed. Tipton Lakes Community Association, Inc. is the "umbrella" homeowners' association and provides for the long-term management and maintenance of Tipton Lakes. The Association preserves property values and promotes the health, safety, and welfare of its residents. It does through the management and maintenance of the Common Areas, facilities and recreational amenities, providing community services, collecting and disbursing Association funds, rules enforcement, maintenance of architectural standards, and offering social activities. The Association functions both as a business and as a self-governing group.

If you have an interest in Tipton Lakes, whether you are relocating, or a resident of Columbus Indiana and you wish to move up, or you live in Tipton Lakes currently and you wish to list your home for sale, Call Me 812-603-1368 I will be honored to help you!

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website:http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Curb Appeal Is Your Home The Envy of The Street?

2008-02-24T22:19:00Z

Curb Appeal – Is Your Columbus Indiana Home the Envy of the Street?

We've all had the experience where you drive up to a house and you don't even want to go inside. It's almost immediate "You've started commenting before you park in the driveway." You may know the inside of the house shows much better, but you just can't convince yourself to spend the time to even go inside. Where lots of choices in housing are available to the buyer, why should they? Unfortunately many can't envision or visualize the potential?

I can recall on many occasions prior to taking multiple courses on home marketing, when this did occur. So here are some of the points I've learned since taking the training, and some that I believe are just common sense. We've all watched "Curb Appeal" on TV, and most of these ideas are easy, simple and inexpensive. Haven't we all learned something from the show?

These are some inexpensive fixes that will help create that outside curb appeal and get that home "Sold" sooner.

Make These Simple Suggestions to your Seller

Paint or stain the front and garage doors, especially if they show any weathering. These are the first visuals where a potential buyer focuses. If garage doors are metal and dented, they may need to be replaced.

Any old, basically abandoned sheds or small structures, must be removed, the area reseeded, or the grass replaced.

Change any dated, outside light fixtures, or repaint them to give them a new look.

Fix the driveway. If it is asphalt, make sure cracks and crumbling areas are dug out and filled and then the whole driveway sealed. If it is cement, have large cracks filled and repaired. If possible give the driveway a coat of paint, it will add to the new look. The buyer must feel they can drive onto it, and want to see there car in the driveway!

Many homes don't have sidewalks, but many do, if so edge the grass alongside the sidewalks and the driveway, it makes the lawn and home look manicured, well cared for and maintained.

Landscaping bricks should be in their proper placement. Mowing, weed-eating sometimes moves them and this is something the homeowner rarely notices, but makes the property look unsightly.

Fill in bare dirt under large shade trees, plant shade-tolerant seed or plants in defined planters or groundcover. Landscape, properly for that area. Flower or landscaping beds should be cleaned out and updated for the time of year it is in your region. Place new bedding material down.

Prune and trim all trees and bushes. If a bush or tree is too overgrown, trim or remove it and replace it with a similar size and type if you can. If its bushes along a walkway, or in front of a window, trim them back, it will take years off the look of the home. If there is a tree limb(s) over the roof, have them removed.

If the house needs painting hire a professional, get it done!. Paint shutters and fix them if they are hanging crooked. At least this may help get your client in the front door, even if they negotiate a full paint job into the sale later.

If the house is sided, have it power-washed and have gutters and windows cleaned. Window cleaning inside and out makes the house feel updated and fresh, rather than old and dingy.

Make sure grass is in good shape, weeds are removed, trimming done regularly. So many sellers fall down on this job the minute the house is listed, and this is critical to selling a house quickly, especially one where the owners have already moved out. In snowy climates, removal must be done regularly too. If owners have moved out, make sure you have an AHS Home Warranty to re-assure buyers.

Keep garbage and recycle containers inside the garage, and if possible empty(no odors), along with all toys and equipment. Make sure the garage is neat and organized. Painted walls and floors also go a long way in this area and are inexpensive to do.

Decks should be washed and repainted or re-sealed; plantings around them cleaned, weed-free and looking good. Patio furniture should be in excellent condition. Even though it is in the backyard, this is the area where the family can envision enjoying the warm days and the new yard.

If the roof has missing shingles and they can be replaced inexpensively, suggest this be done as it may save negotiation over a completely new roof. Roof repair needs and costs should be minor or the homeowner might as well replace the entire roof.

If the homeowner wants to do a bit more, suggest solar lights lining the driveway or installing a more attractive mail box, or replacing plain doorknobs with something more custom.

If you have an evening showing, make sure lights are on outside and inside the house. This is warm and inviting.

If it's a holiday season, by all means decorate the home, but I suggest "Tastefully", keep it simple yet elegant! Sorry, no inflatable Santa or similar scenarios. Like the scent of baking cookies on the inside of the house, this really says "it's a home" and I can see myself enjoying life here! In the least, always have some greenery or flowers (yellow in spring and summer) for the season on the front step or porch; even a birdbath with a little garden around it says home.

To sell the house at top dollar and quickly, make it "appeal to everyone!" who will be seeing it, rather than the few who are looking for a "fixer upper." Make it stand out from the pack and be the "Envy of the Street!"

                                                                                              Martin Dorgan
                                                                                              Coldwell Banker
                                                                                          South Central Realty
                                                                                             1015 Third Street
                                                                                        Columbus Indiana, 47201
                                                                                      Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
                                                                                          Cell:   812-603-1368
                                                            Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
                                                        Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

                           Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...

And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Housing In Columbus Indiana

2008-02-24T22:13:00Z

Housing in Columbus Indiana

Columbus Indiana has a Diverse Assortment of Housing Alternatives:

The Urban Columbus areas contain many varieties of style, age, cost and surroundings as alternative choices for a place to live. The current vacancy rate which changes constantly, are 3 - 5% for single family homes, and 4 - 5% for apartments. Columbus has many downtown apartments available in former single family homes. There are approximately 20 apartment complexes across the city, with 1,854 total units. Columbus may be historical but it is a 20th Century city with seven condominium developments.

There are more than 25 rural subdivisions within 6 miles of Columbus. Some of these country subdivisions are served by city water and have sewage treatment plants. There are some horse privledges and facilities available at a few. Some Columbus employees choose to live outside the city limits so they can take advantage of an even broader range of housing, and some just want a little more of country life benefits. As you drive around Columbus you will see many countryside villages within 15 miles of Columbus. And there are 13 towns with population ranging from 250 - 5,000.

Columbus has a strong agricultural tradition, and there are hundreds of farms within 20 miles. Some of these farms range from hobby farms of 10 acres or less, small farms of 50 to 300 acres, and larger farms from 300 to 2,500 acres. Bartholomew County and Columbus has a large selection of small farms or ranches. Farm owner investments range in size and investment of $1,500 to $3,000 per acre cultivated.

Columbus is a historical city, with many older homes ranging from 30 to 100 years old. Several of these homes and areas have undergone restoration and neighborhood improvements. Our downtown has maintained its aesthetic appeal because of improvements, and ever changing and updating. There are major projects either under construction or planned, including the Indigo Hotel which recently opened its doors to travellers.

Columbus has a number of man made lakes, ponds and natural lakes within the city and just on the outskirts of town, and within 10 miles of Columbus. Fifteen of these lakes are the focal point of housing developments. They enhance the natural beauty, add scenic views, create water-sports havens, and are easily accessible.

Columbus cares about its residents, and provides Public Housing and Section 8 accommodations. The Housing Authority of the City of Columbus serves the community and areas within 5 miles. They own and operate three low budget - low rent housing projects. One, specifically for the elderly and disabled. Two other facilities are for low income families. The Columbus Housing Authority has 45 homes diversely spread across the city and throughout the community, to provide housing for families requiring two or three bedroom accommodation. They also provide rental assistance through the Section 8 Voucher program. There are approximately 700 units involved with both programs.

For residents living in Columbus, there is something for everyone. For people looking to relocate the same applies. If you would like additional information about Columbus I would be happy to send you a Newcomers package, filled with all kinds of good information that you will find valuable.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Columbus Indiana Usefull Information For Residents, Relocators, or Visitors.

2008-02-24T22:05:00Z

Columbus Indiana Usefull Information For Residents, Relocators or Visitors

Columbus Indiana Community Information

Here are a few places you should get to know:

Utilities

ELECTRICITY: Bartholomew County REMC 372-2546; Cinergy PSI Energy (800) 521-2232.

GAS: Indiana Natural Gas 988-2512; Vectren Energy Delivery (800) 227-1376.

WATER: Columbus City Utilities 372-8861, Eastern Bartholomew Water Corp. 526-9777; Southwestern Bartholomew Water Corp. 342-4421.

CABLE TV: Comcast, 1470 Jackson St., 800-226-2278.

TELEPHONE: SBC Ameritech 800-742-8771.; AT&T 222-0300.

Services

DRIVER'S LICENSE: 745 Schnier Drive, 379-9323.

LIBRARY: Fifth Street and Lafayette Avenue, Columbus 379-1255; 635 Harrison St., Hope, 546-5310.

TRANSPORTATION: ColumBUS 376-2506; City Taxi 314-2227.

Emergency

POLICE: Columbus Police Department, 123 Washington St., 376-2600;

FIRE: Columbus Fire Department, 1101 Jackson St., 376-2679.

SHERIFF: Bartholomew County Sheriff's Department, 543 Second St., 379-1650.

Help

First Call for Help, 376-6666.

Volunteer Action Center, 1531 13th St., 375-2210.

Voting

Bartholomew County Voter Registration Office courthouse, Third and Washington Streets, 379-1604.

Schools

PUBLIC: Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp, 372-8211; Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corp. 546-4922.

PAROCHIAL: ABC-Stewart Montessori 342-3029; St. Bartholomew Catholic 379-9353; Bethel Holiness Christian 376-0210; Columbus Christian 372-3780; St Peter's Lutheran 372-5266; White Creek Lutheran 342-6832; North Star Montessori 379-4180.

POST-SECONDARY: Indiana Business College 379-9000; Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus 372-8266; Purdue University College of Technology at Columbus 348-7245; Indiana Wesleyan University 376-7346; Ivy Tech State College, 372-9925.

Fun

Columbus Department of Parks and Recreation: 376-2680.

GOLF COURSES: Clifty Creek 372-6031; Greenbelt 376-2684; Harrison Lake 342-6012; Otter Creek 579-5227; Par 3 376-2687; Quarry Ridge 579-6559; Timbergate 526-3523.

ARTS: Columbus Area Arts Council, The Commons Mall, 376-2539 (Art Columbus, city band, philharmonic, orchestra, dance studio, kidscommons, Mill Race Players)

CEEN - Columbus Entertainment and Events Network 372-3744, www.CEENonline.com.

EXHIBITS: Art and Dance Center of Columbus, 211 Washington St., 372-4228, 376-8080; Columbus Museum of Art and Design, The Commons Mall, 376-2597; Southern Indiana Center for the Arts, Seymour, 812-522-2278.

Health

Columbus Regional Hospital, 2400 E. 17th St., 379-4441.

Behavioral Healthcare Columbus, 2223 Poshard Drive, 376-1711.

PromptMed, 2502 25th St, 372-8883.

Woodside PromptMed, 6220 Inwood Drive, 342-5900.

Quinco Behavioral Health Systems, 379-2341.

Volunteers in Medicine Clinic, 836 Jackson St., 376-9750
Wednesday, April 12, 2006

                                                                                           Martin Dorgan
                                                                                         Coldwell Banker
                                                                                      South Central Realty
                                                                                         1015 Third Street
                                                                                    Columbus Indiana, 47201
                                                                                Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
                                                                                        Cell:   812-603-1368
                                  Website:http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com     http://www.martinsellscolumbus.com
                                                               Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

                                                      Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve!

That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...

And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Columbus Indiana Education Information

2008-02-24T21:58:00Z

Columbus Indiana EDUCATION Information Definitely an asset to those residents of Columbus Indiana, or those living out of state considering relocation to Columbus Indiana. That might be in need of general information about our Education system, The Bartholomew County School Corporation the local schools, with connections to some of their school websites. Including Public Schools, Private Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, and Post Secondary Schools.

Columbus Indiana EDUCATION Information

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

BARTHOLOMEW CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL CORPORATION

Elementary Schools
Name	Enrollment
Clifty Creek School Fodrea School Lincoln School Mt. Healthy School Parkside School Richards School Rockcreek School Schmitt School Southside School Smith School Taylorsville School	548 312 217 382 660 573 324 709 813 478 573
Middle Schools
Name	Enrollment
Central Middle School Northside Middle School	927 955

High Schools
Name	Enrollment
Columbus East High School Columbus North High School	1,423 1,948
Other
Name	Enrollment
McDowell Adult Education Center, includes ABE, GED, ESL and Y-MED at Jefferson Education Center	Included in Middle School & High School Counts

Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corp.
Name	Enrollment
Cross Cliff Primary School Hauser Junior/Senior High School Hope Intermediate School	252 64 329

General Data:

Size of district: 300 square miles. (14th largest school district in Indiana by enrollment).

School year: 9 months (Lincoln and Fodrea Schools - year round).

Summer term (optional): Grades 1-8: Remedial math and reading, enrichment courses, special education classes.

Grades 9-12: Required courses or electives (30 days, 5 hours per day).

Pre-Kindergarten programs for all elementary.

School transportation: 7,000+ students transported to-and-from schools. 100 buses.

Education Excellence

Graduating seniors enrolling in post secondary schools: 80%.

English as a second language: K-12.

Outstanding vocational education program: 2,011 students enrolled, 36 occupational teachers.

Outstanding special education programming for all disabilities.

Gifted and Talented education recognized throughout the state.

Substance Abuse Leadership recognized by state.

Faculty Data

Total teaching staff: 607 - 70% of teachers have Masters degree or higher (greater than state or national averages).

Overall teacher-to-pupil ratio: 1:17

Teacher salaries: $49,841 (2004-05)

Adult and Continuing Education:
Diverse programs offered both day and evenings, 1,350 enrolled. Over 75 course offerings, both credit and non-credit. Areas included are:
GED Program
Basic Literacy
Adult Basic Education
Off-site Jail Program
Personal Interest Courses
High School Completion
Day and Evening High School
Vocational Programs
English as a Second Language Program
Young Mothers Education Program
Education To Work Transition Programs
Athletic Facilities:
Elementary: Play area equipment and gymnasium at all schools.
Secondary: Athletic Fields, baseball fields, gymnasiums at all schools.
Swimming Pools: 5
East High School seating capacity:
Basketball	4,000
Football	3,500
North High School seating capacity:
Basketball	7,200
Football	4,000
Physical Education Area	540

School Building Data:
Facilities Library at each school. Staffed learning resource centers at all schools. Special Education facility for handicapped children. Industrial Technology Labs in secondary schools. Laboratories: Physics, chemistry, biology, foreign languages in secondary schools. TV studio, color broadcast center (network quality) and planetarium at East High School. Distance learning laboratories in both high schools. Internet access at all buildings.
School Finances 2003:
Operating Budget	$60,743,438
Operating cost per pupil	$5,741
Bonded long-term debt	$49,700,000
School tax rates, last 8 years:
2004	$1.4562
2003	$1.3088
2002	$1.6130
2001	$4.8707
2000	$4.7673
1999	$4.812
1998	$5.0371
1997	$4.71
1996	$5.10

PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS IN BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY
School	Grades	Enrollment
ABC Learning Center/Stewart Elementary	PK-06	225
Bethel Holiness Christian School	KG-12	22
Children Inc. #2	PK-KG	28
Columbus Christian School Inc.	PK-12	233
Columbus Seventh Day Adventist	01-08	8
Faith Lutheran Preschool	PK	16
Grace Lutheran Preschool	PK	90
Head Start Program	PK	70
Hope Head Start Program	PK	18
Midway Christian Academy	PK-12	33
St. Bartholomew Catholic School	PK-08	382
St. Peter's Luteran School	KG-08	421
St. Paul Lutheran Preschool	PK	26
White Creek Lutheran School	KG-08	99
Home School Enrollment for Bartholomew		282

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
INDIANA UNIVERSITY-PURDUE UNIVERSITY COLUMBUS
Accredited branch campus of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Facilities located at 4601 Central Avenue. Campus serves the 10 southeastern counties of Bartholomew, Dearborn, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, Johnson, Ohio, Ripley, Shelby and Switzerland.Complete assiciate degree programs are offered in Chemistry, General Studies, Liberal Arts and Nursing (LPN-ASN Mobility Option). Complete bachelor's degrees are offered in Business, Elementary Education, General Studies, Nursing (RN-BSN Mobility Option), Psychology and Sociology. Complete master's degree offered in Business Administration. General education courses are offered for other IU and Purdue degrees.	Faculty:
	Full-time Adjunct	34 150
	Enrollment:
	Undergraduates Graduate students Average age of student body	94% 6% 24 yrs.
	Classes: Total IUPUC course offering: 180 courses, 272 sections. Day and evening classes. School term: 16-week semesters; 4 & 8-week sessions; 6-week summer sessions

Tuition	In-State Resident*	Out-of-State Resident*
Undergraduate/Credit Hour	$187.50	$531.75
Graduate/Credit Hour	$214.95	$620.40

Note: Fees are subject to change without notice by the Indiana University Board of Trustees. The most recent edition of the IUPUI Columbus "Registration Guide " will carry the most current rates.

Purdue University School of Technology
Accredited site of the Purdue University School of Technology at West Lafayette, IN. Columbus facilities located at 4601 Central Avenue. Campus serves the 7 southeastern counties of Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, Johnson and Shelby. Complete associate degree programs are offered in Computer Graphics Technology, Computer Integrated Manufacturing Technology, Computer Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology and Organizational Leadership & Supervision. Complete bachelor's degrees are offered in Computer Information Systems Technology and Organizational Leadership & Supervision. Complete master's degree offered in Technology.	Faculty:
	Full-time Adjunct	8 20
	Enrollment:
	349 fall semester 2001 Undergraduates	100%
	Classes: Total Purdue School of Technology course offerings: 44 courses, 120 sections. Day and evening classes. School term: 16-week semesters; 4 & 8-week summer session.

Tuition	In-State Resident*	Out-of-State Resident*
Undergraduate/Credit Hour	$127.95	$398.00
Graduate/Credit Hour	$171.25	$494.15

* Residency is established for those 21 and older who are U.S. citizens or permanent resident visa holders who have lived within the state for 12 months immediately prior to the first day of class. Dependent minors 20 years or under are granted immediate residency status once parents move into Indiana.

IVY TECH STATE COLLEGE

Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, the Columbus Campus of Ivy Tech is one of 23 major instructional centers in Indiana. Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science degrees; technical certificates, short-term career certificates, and hundreds of certifications are available. Areas of study include: accounting, business administration, criminal justice, computer information systems, dental assisting, office administration, medical assisting, practical nursing, design technology, electronics and computer technology, manufacturing and industrial technology, paramedic science, visual communications, liberal studies, general education, apprenticeships, and corporate and continuing education.

Average Fall Enrollment: 2,300

Average Age: 27 years

Employees: 90 benefits eligible employees, 32 of whom are faculty; 100 adjunct faculty.

Financial Aid Available: Grants, scholarships, loans, employment.

Classes:
Total course offering: more than 200 courses.
Day and evening classes.
Academic Term: 16-week semesters; 8-week summer session.

	Tuition	In-State Resident*	Out-of-State Resident*
	Credit Hour	$83.95	$170.25

INDIANA UNIVERSITY Main campus, Bloomington, 36 miles. Driving time from Columbus: 45 to 50 minutes.
		miles south of Indianapolis. IU Bloomington is the flagship campus of an eight-campus system, two of which are jointly operated with Purdue University. IU Bloomington has the semester system and two summer terms. IU Bloomington offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in over 100 different programs in its 13 academic schools. Admission to IU Bloomington is selective. On-campus housing includes a variety of residence centers and married student facilities. An all-points meal plan is also available to students living in campus residence centers. In addition, IU Bloomington has a bus system that offers transportation throughout campus and portions of the city of Bloomington. For a virtual tour, visit: www.iub.edu/tour/.
Enrollment:
Number of Students	29,549
Levels of Study Offered:
Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, Specialist's Degree, Doctorate, First Professional Degree
Campus Description:
Indiana University is a major research university founded in 1820 as the state university for Indiana. Its 1,900-acre campus is located in Bloomington, a small city of 65,000 residents, fifty

	Tuition, Bloomington Campus	In-State Resident	Out-of-State Resident
	Undergraduate/Semester	$7,112.00	$19,508.00

	OTHER UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES WITHIN 50 MILES OF COLUMBUS
	Butler University	Indianapolis, Indiana
	Franklin College	Franklin, Indiana
	Hanover College	Madison, Indiana
	Indiana University/Purdue University at Indianapolis	Indianapolis, Indiana
	Ivy Tech State College	Indianapolis, Indiana
	University of Indianapolis	Indianapolis, Indiana

OTHER UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES IN INDIANA
Anderson College	Indiana State University	Taylor University
Ball State University	Indiana Wesleyan University	Tri-State University
Bethel College	Manchester College	University of Evansville
Concordia College	Marian College Purdue University	University of Notre Dame
DePauw University	Purdue University	University of Southern Indiana
Earlham College	Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology	Valparaiso University
Goshen College	St. Francis College	Vincennes University
Huntington College	St. Mary's College	Wabash College

C4 Columbus Area Career Connection

C⁴ Overview:

C4 provides career and technical education skills training to high school students in Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur and Jackson counties. Approximately 1,600 area students enroll in C4 classes each year. Facilities for C4 classes are located at Columbus East and Columbus North High Schools as well as the McDowell Adult Education Center. In addition, the community provides worksites for enhanced student learning. C4 program offerings are currently moving into a career cluster format including: Agricultural Science and Business, Computer Technology, Business, Management and Finance, Engineering Construction, Health Careers, Multimedia Communications, Transportation, Engineering Manufacturing and Human Services. Occupations within a cluster represent all achievement levels and reflect a wide-range of post-high school options. The occupations are clustered by a common set of competencies and skills. Each program area's curriculum is written in a competency-based format. Students completing a C4 program will receive a "Passport to Employment" which provides a detailed listing of the competencies they have attained and the proficiency level at which they perform.

C⁴ serves the following eleven area schools:

Brown County High School

Columbus East High School

Columbus North High School

Crothersville High School

Greensburg High School

Hauser Jr./Sr. High School

Jefferson Education Center

McDowell Adult Education Center

North Decatur High School

Seymour High School

South Decatur High School

If you are considering a move out of state, and moving to Columbus Indiana, Call Me! Martin Dorgan 812-603-1368 I would be happy to Fed EX or UPS You a Columbus "Newcomers Package" which includes maps, phone book, guides, current Homes Magazine, Articles and Information from local, state organizations, Community News, etc.. All very beneficial information which you can use before and after arriving here in Columbus Indiana.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368

Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com
Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Columbus Indiana Dog Park Coming Soon! Update!

2008-02-14T23:27:00Z

Columbus Indiana Dog Park Coming Soon! Update! (edit/delete)

In an effort to keep Columbus Indiana residents current, concerning the ongoing planing and meetings for the Columbus Indiana Dog Park, here is an over-all view of the proceedings.

Columbus Indiana Dog Park Association, Inc.

For Meeting February 7, 2008, at 7 p.m., Donnor Center

(Draft revised 2-8-08)

Dog parks can be designed and constructed for relatively low costs, i.e., metal T-posts with wire, a gate, and non-irrigated turf, to relatively high costs, i.e., irrigated turf, wooden fences, shelters, etc. We hope to base our design decisions for our Columbus dog-park not only on utility and cost, but also on how the overall use and appearance of the dog park fits into the surrounding park or area. Below we will discuss how we have arrived at many of our design choices for the Columbus Indiana dog park.

Design Decisions - Where to Begin?
We started by observing existing dog parks to break apart their designs for our own use. Our review led us to identify design considerations we felt could make the dog park more pleasing for both human and animal users. While other sorts of parks have been refining their designs for 80 years or more, Dog Parks are a relatively recent innovation. We have only five to ten years of experience to draw from in creating our design. Recent dog parks have evolved considerably over the original dog parks, with each successive park taking the best part of previous designs and improving upon them with their own new ideas. To understand our design process, we briefly visited those early dog parks and identified the concerns a simple fenced field could not address.

Evolving Dog-Park Design

First-generation dog-parks tend to be just large enclosures with a single entry/exit gate. Although they function very well to contain dogs, they have challenges and are limited in aesthetic value. The biggest problem in one of these simple parks is turf wear. Because of the concentrated use at the single entry/exit gate, the turf disappeared, leaving a rutted, dirt entry path. If the turf throughout these parks was not rested, reseeded and maintained, large sections of the park were destroyed, unable to recover from year to year. The single entry/exit point in first-generation parks also posed another unique problem. It was very hard for owners to control the entering dog (because it was so excited to get in), and it was equally hard to prevent the dogs that were already in the park from getting out (to investigate the new dog). These issues were addressed in the next generations of dog-park design.

Turf Concerns-Two Large Dog Areas

Consultation with other parks has led us to the conclusion that the dog play areas will receive the same type of use/abuse as many sports fields, and maintenance decisions should be based on this conclusion. We will need to treat these fields as if they were overused sports fields and maintenance of the dog park needs to include mowing, fertilizing, aerating, resting, over-seeding (using both slicing and broadcast methods) and trimming. The seed mix needs to be one developed specially as a sports turf mix or high use mix and tolerant of the light conditions in our chosen sight (shade or sun). No matter how well you address the wear of the turf through careful maintenance, if use is not removed to give the grass an opportunity to grow unmolested, it will never recover. Based on this concern, our design discussion has included planning for field rotation, where one play area is rested while another is opened for active use.

Other parks are using this rotation system with great success. It seems the best way to handle turf recovery and maintenance here, especially in the potentially muddy areas of the flood plains we are now considering. The rotation schedule should be based on use, wear, time of year, natural moisture, compaction, etc., not the calendar. The park maintenance staff, in consultation with the CDPA, should make the decision as to when to rotate to the other play area. While we might tentatively plan for rotating approximately every third month, that schedule might need to be adjusted in actual practice.

Of course the amount of turf wear is directly related to the size of the enclosures and the amount of use the park receives. Using Lafayette's dog-park (also in a flood plain) as a model, our design incorporates two 2.5 acre large dog areas. We believe this gives us a good opportunity to preserve the turf and maintain a beautiful and functional area.

Small-Dog Area -

Because some large dogs have a prey instinct that can be triggered by smaller dogs running, and because some smaller dogs are intimidated by, or fail to be intimidated by, larger dogs, we have decided to include a separately enclosed small-dog area in our design. This area doesn't have to be very large as the dogs are smaller and should cause less damage to the turf. From what we have seen, .5 acres appears to be an adequate small-dog area. It is anticipated that with a field of this size the turf concerns will be minimal and we will not need here a second enclosed small-dog area for turf rotation.

Keyed Entry-

The Entries to the more recent dog-parks include locking keyed systems to allow controlling access to the dog-park. This allows dog-park users to be screened for minimum health and safety standards; animals who are not vaccinated or are unhealthy, or who have owners who violate dog park policy could be denied access. The locked gate also helps limit vandalism and keeps unsupervised children out of the areas where dogs are running off-leash. Keyed entries also provide a means for raising money from the dog-park users for the ongoing maintenance of the park through membership fees. While the keyed or swipe entries can themselves be quite expensive, the described benefits are sufficient to lead us to include them in our local design.

The "Bullpen" entry --
Recent generation dog park design includes the addition of what we call the bullpen. This bullpen style entry addresses the issue of containing dogs as they enter or exit the park. The bullpen was an enclosed entry area, generally small (10' x 10' to 15' x 15'), with two gates. The first is the entry/exit gate used to get from the parking lot area into the bullpen; the second is a gate from the bullpen into the dog park play fields. The surface of the bullpen is generally some durable material, either hard (concrete) or soft (crushed stone) to avoid this high use area from becoming muddy or rutted. Some designs have included an additional surfaced area just inside the play fields, to help to disperse some of the concentrated use right at the entry/exit.

We have considered natural dog behaviors in shaping and designing the dog park, and the design of the bullpen is greatly influenced by these considerations. The entry and exit to the play fields will tend to be a natural congregation point for the dogs, and probably their owners as well. To break up crowding and allow easier exits and entrances, we are considering incorporating more than one access point to each large-dog area. Since our current thinking is that we would have a card-swipe or keyed entrance, and these entrance devices are quite costly, we have decided to increase the size of our bullpen. Our design incorporates a bigger, longer bull pen to allow several gates from the bull pen into the various fields from this one main point of keyed entry. These multiple field access points would also allow us to detour traffic from an entry if it was getting excessively worn, to allow recovery and spread out the traffic.

Enclosure Shape and materials-fencing

Fences are a major and visible component of any dog-park design, and a major expense. The fences are needed to contain the animals and protect other park users who are not participating in the dog-park and might not want to be approached by our dogs. The fences need to be functional, affordable, and aesthetically in keeping with the rest of the city park location.

Our design incorporates a five foot high chain-link fence. Some dog-parks with lower fences have indicated that four feet is too low and they wish they had installed higher ones. Some parks have 6 foot fences, but the extra height cost substantially more, and may not be necessary. We consider the minimum 5" height necessary to keep dogs from jumping over the fences, in or out, and hope it will also be high enough to discourage people from climbing over it or dropping their dogs over it.

There are some truly beautiful steel and aluminum fences available, but at $500+ for 10 linear feet installed, it seems beyond our reach. Wood is beautiful and costs less than these metal decorative fences, but it requires much more maintenance, blocks air and water flow, and would not hold up well to the regular flooding we expect at the sites currently under consideration. A review of fence options has led us to the conclusion that chain-link fencing is our best material. It is flexible, very low maintenance, strong, easily installed and available at a relatively low cost. It comes in several styles and colors, but we have learned that the vinyl-coated chain link is not only more expensive than the plain metal chain-link, but is also weaker.

Our plan includes bringing the fence all the way down to the ground. We have discussed trenching or burying the bottom edge of the fence to prevent dogs from digging or pushing under it. Anchoring the bottom edge might also serve to give the fence additional stability to withstand flood conditions. If we trenched and anchored the fence in a material such as concrete, asphalt or crushed stone, we might have the additional benefit of preventing weeds from growing against the fence. This would help reduce required trimming, lowering maintenance costs and assuring a tidy, well-groomed look to the fences. Trenching would cost more than just using an anchor wire to tack it into the ground, so we are looking into trenching as a phase II aspect of the project and currently pricing regular chain link with a smooth top and an anchored base.

There has been discussion about designing the shape of the play fields to avoid angles of 90 degrees or less so dogs can't get cornered by other dogs in the fields. The lack of sharp corners might also simplify mowing if planned right. Contouring the fences seems a relative minor adjustment that can be addressed once an actual site has been selected. We hope to contour the fencing without significantly impacting costs.

Shade/shelter

Summer in Indiana can be miserable without a bit of shade to rest in. To encourage year round use, we need to have some shade available in our large and small dog areas. In sites with existing mature trees, we are set for shade comfort, but need to be aware of the risk that too much shade will inhibit turf growth and recovery. In sites without existing mature trees, we will have to install some shade shelters. These shelters might be permanent structures, or temporary shelters to provide shade for a few years until we can get shade trees planted and matured. Several dog-parks suggest placing shade structures far enough into the play areas and away from the fences to limit entry point backups and dogs crowding against the fences.

The number, size and permanence of the shade shelters will depend on the actual site chosen. These shelters might be paid for with grants or contributions that require a specific capital improvement to finance. There has been discussion about locating benches within these shelters, and we might consider whether any rain protection is also desired when choosing a specific shelter design.

Water-

The dog park design requires access to clean drinking and wash water. We plan to have both a wash-off area and a water fountain available at our dog-park. We have no plans to supply bathroom facilities for human guests at this time.

We are looking at purchasing a three-tiered water fountain unit, with a regular-height fountain, a handicapped- accessible fountain and a dog-bowl fountain. This fountain might be located in the bullpen where it would be easy to maintain and clean, and available to all dog-park users, human and canine. If in the bullpen we will want it to be far from the keyed entrance as it might tend to be a natural congregation point, which is not the purpose of the bullpen. There has been some interest in placing drinking fountains in the play areas, so we plan to add additional fountains in the large dog and small dog areas when money permits as part of Phase II.

Our design also includes a doggie wash station for washing off muddy paws. This would be located immediately off the back or to one side of the bullpen as a small separate enclosure. The purpose is to allow park users to rinse off their pets' muddy feet before heading to their cars. We do not plan to provide a swimming area for the dogs, but being in flood plains means dirty paws more often than not.

Lights-

Our design plan includes lighting in the bullpen area and parking lot, and as otherwise advisable for security reasons. Since dark comes early in the winter, and many of the potential users of the dog park plan to use it in the evenings, we need to have lighting in the parking area and in the bullpen. Additionally, the brighter and better lit the area, the more comfortable people will be and the easier it will be to properly monitor their dogs. This will probably require electricity on the site, and installation and maintenance of street light type lighting. The electric set up and some minimal lighting are considered necessary as part of the initial construction, but additional field lighting could be left for Phase II. Solar Power Lighting is also being investigated as a possible option.

Benches-

We are planning on three benches per large dog area (6) and two in the small dog area for a total of eight benches. These should be located away from the fences and away from the entrance areas, and be somewhat scattered throughout the play areas. They should be immobile so they are not easily knocked over, stolen, or moved closer to the fence where they might be used by dogs or people to climb or jump the fences. They should also be durable and easily cleaned so they can withstand the flooding expected on the sites under consideration. Possibly one or more should be located in the shade in each play area.

Design Planning includes $300 per bench with 8 benches.

Waste receptacles & garbage cans-

We have planned for two regular garbage cans, one just outside the bullpen and one near the parking lot. These are outside the play areas to keep out off-leash dogs from getting into harmful trash. Tasty smelling trash might also lead to guarding or aggressive behavior, so most garbage and trash will need to be disposed of outside the play areas.

We are planning for 12 dog waste stations; one in the parking area, one in the bullpen, four in each of the large dog areas and two in the small dog area. These waste stations would be located with an eye toward convenient use and easy weekly collection. It is planned that these be located conveniently within the play areas and have courtesy collection bags attached.

Design Planning includes $200 to $300 per receptacle with 14 receptacles total.

Additional Design Interests-

Agility equipment has been requested by some interested members and is available at some parks. This might be an item we could get donated specifically or build ourselves if interest exists.

A time out space, a smaller separately enclosed area, is available in some parks, and we have a community member who might be willing to finance the fencing off of such an area. We do not currently see a need for this, but need to do more research to understand its uses before finalizing our design.

A lighted Kiosk is desirable in the long range future of the dog-park. A covered Kiosk outside the bullpen, possibly near the keyed entrance or the parking lot could be used for education, community outreach, posting rules, communicating with members and advertising our dog-park. Possibly we could include some sort of Photo Opportunity with the Kiosk to encourage people to take and share pictures of their dogs featuring our Dog-park logo. This would both publicize the dog-park, and be fun for the dog-park users.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368

Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com
Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Columbus Indiana AREA RECREATION

2008-02-14T23:21:00Z

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Five of Indiana’s 23 State Parks are within 45 miles of Columbus. Two of the largest recreation areas in the state are located within that distance.

Brown County State Park: 16 miles from Columbus off 46 west. 15,547 acres, scenic rolling topography. Two small lakes. Camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, picnic areas, horseback riding. Lodge with restaurant, guest rooms, cabins.

Monroe Lake State Reservoir: 42 miles west of Columbus, using 46 west, past Bloomington. 10,750-acre lake, 190-mile shoreline, maximum depth of 55 ft. All major water sports. Boat docks and rental; houseboats, cabin cruisers, sailboats, fishing boats, 9 public boat ramps, camping, hiking and hunting. Resort hotel: horseback riding, championship golf course, tennis, interpretive/recreational programming

OTHER AREA FACILITIES

Grouse Ridge Public Fishing Area	160 acres		11 miles
Atterbury Fish and Wildlife Area		5,512 acres	15 miles
Hoosier National Forest	182,000 acres		24 miles
Brush Creek Fish and Wildlife Area	1,841 acres		25 miles
Crosley Fish and Wildlife Area	4,084 acres		25 miles
Yellowwood State Forest	23,283 acres		27 miles
Jackson-Washington State Forest	15,698 acres		35 miles
Morgan-Monroe State Forest	23,555 acres		40 miles

FISHING AND HUNTING

The Division of Fish and Wildlife operates 43 fish and wildlife areas. Several streams and rivers in the Columbus area are good for stream fishing, float trips: Sugar Creek, Clifty Creek, Driftwood River, Flatrock River and the East Fork of the White River. Indiana has more than 1,000 lakes within its borders.

Resident License Fees:

Fishing license
Trapping license
Hunting license
Hunting & Fishing license

$7.00
$14.00
$14.25
$20.75

Hunting Seasons: Established for: wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, deer, quail, pheasant, ruffed grouse, dove, frogs, raccoon, opossum, red and gray fox, coyote, crow, gallinules, ducks, geese, coots, mergansers, rails, woodcock, snipe and teal.

SNOW SKIING

Ski Resort: Nashville, Indiana (16 miles). Ski World.

Facilities: The resort features different grades of slopes for beginners to advanced skiers. Lighted for after-dark skiing. Artificial snow made for slopes. Facilities include pro shop with complete ski equipment rentals, ski lodge with lounge and cafeteria. Open December through March.

Source: www.state.in.us.dnc

SPECTATOR SPORTS

Indiana University, Bloomington (36 miles west of Columbus using 46 west): Big 10 basketball (seating for 17,000+); Big 10 football (seating for 51,000); baseball, track and field, swimming, gymnastics, wrestling and women's sports.

Indianapolis (45 miles from Columbus, North on I-65): Auto Racing: "Indianapolis 500" (last Sunday in May); NASCAR Brickyard 400 (first Saturday in August); Indiana State Fairgrounds race track features "Hoosier 100" USAC big-car dirt racing and drag racing; Raceway Park at Clermont features SCCA sports car and sprint car racing. Pro basketball: Indiana Pacers, NBA. Pro baseball: Indianapolis Indians, AAA, International League. Pro Hockey: Indianapolis Ice, International Hockey League.

Tennis: U.S. Hard court Open Championship tennis matches. Amateur world-class championships in swimming as well as track and field held at I.U.P.U.I. Pro football: Indianapolis Colts, National Football League.

Louisville (68 miles from Columbus, South on I-65): Horse Racing: Kentucky Derby (first Saturday in May). Pari-mutual thoroughbred racing, 1 track; Pari-mutuel trotters and pacers, 1 track.

University of Louisville, basketball and football.

Cincinnati (78 miles): Pro baseball: Cincinnati Reds, National League. Pro football: Cincinnati Bengals, NFL. University of Cincinnati basketball and football.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!