50 Something Couple Moving to Louisville (Frankfort, Bardstown: appointed, to rent, condos)

[hcpro]

We're a early 50's empty nest couple moving to Louisville, and would appreciate some insights into neighborhoods and things to do. We've lived in the Philly, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale suburbs over the past 25 years, and find ourselves drawn to more urban environments now that the kids are gone. We enjoy great restaurants, bars, music, comedy clubs, theater. Our tastes tend toward the edgy side, not likely to find us at a church social. We'll probably rent condo/townhouse to start, and would love to be near some fun. Can a couple liberals from the early 70's find happiness in Louisville? Hope to hear from you. S & P

[tomocox]

Originally Posted by hcpro

We're a early 50's empty nest couple moving to Louisville, and would appreciate some insights into neighborhoods and things to do. We've lived in the Philly, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale suburbs over the past 25 years, and find ourselves drawn to more urban environments now that the kids are gone. We enjoy great restaurants, bars, music, comedy clubs, theater. Our tastes tend toward the edgy side, not likely to find us at a church social. We'll probably rent condo/townhouse to start, and would love to be near some fun. Can a couple liberals from the early 70's find happiness in Louisville? Hope to hear from you. S & P

Yes, you can find lots of happiness in Louisville. You will find many venues for your lifestyle. Church socials don't have to be stereotypical ho-hums... I know, but that being that, you'll find white table cloth restaurants, you'll also find the almost falling in bbq joint. There are many neighborhood spots too. The Louisville theater scene is recognized as one of the best, with Broadway quality plays downtown, and off-broadway places such as Derby Dinner, Little Colonel, and the Iroquois Ampitheater summer series.

Just be cautious in buying a condo. As a Realtor, I don't advise anyone to own a condo due to the risks of resale based more on others actions instead of your own, ask any good mortgage banker.

[hcpro]

Thanks for the info. We don't intend to buy anything soon. Already have places in PA and FL. We'll be happy to rent for a while.

[Off Topic]

The Highlands, almost hands down.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Highlands_(Louisville)

[missymomof3]

I agree with Off Topic, the Highlands would be perfect for you.

[bw87a]

maybe even downtown louisville might be nice. the henry clay building would maybe work? downtown is obviously very urban. many people are quick to jump at the highlands, but downtown can offer many great choices as well.

Welcome to the Henry Clay
the henry clay website

Home | Downtown Development Corporation
just another cool website with downtown developments and living unit information

[hcpro]

Thanks for the responses. We visited last month and enjoyed it. Had great meals at Proof and Lilly's. The Bardstown area seemed like it would be fun, although we really like the idea of living downtown. Just not sure there's enough gong on.

[tomocox]

Originally Posted by hcpro

Thanks for the responses. We visited last month and enjoyed it. Had great meals at Proof and Lilly's. The Bardstown area seemed like it would be fun, although we really like the idea of living downtown. Just not sure there's enough gong on.

I guarantee you that if you keep paying your taxes, the Mayor for Life and his posse will make certain there is enough going on downtown....

[Peter1948]

Originally Posted by hcpro

Thanks for the responses. We visited last month and enjoyed it. Had great meals at Proof and Lilly's. The Bardstown area seemed like it would be fun, although we really like the idea of living downtown. Just not sure there's enough gong on.

yeah, but downtown is very up and coming, and you kind of have to know the "spots." i also disaagree that ALL condos are bad (many are very bad, especially generic, large complexes in the suburbs)...a well located and well appointed condo is a niche market, and you are the target demographic.
also, have you explored around frankfort avenue much? Louisville has tons of historic rehabs and infill with great resale. Small, well located projects like this within walking distance of fine dining, wine bars, and shops will always sell well:

Home

Just an idea in the Crescent Hill area.

[hcpro]

We drove around a lot on our visit and did check out the Frankfort Ave and Crescent Hill areas, which were very nice. Just not likely to buy right away. We've made the mistake of buying right away in the past, only to find others areas we liked better once we got to know the city. We'll probably rent for the first year. Thanks for the suggestions.