Indiana small towns offer that relaxed lifestyle we all want, but when you get ready, there is always easy proximity to big city amenities in Indianapolis or Chicago.

Fort Wayne

"Fort Wayne is a great place to call home," says Realtor Tim Green. "Earlier in the year I had rated the Fort Wayne Market a neutral market. I have since changed my conclusions to indicate a buyer's market. Over the last few months there has been a significant influx of new homes for sale. In price ranges above $150,000, the buyers have an ample supply of homes to choose from. Buyers are taking their time to evaluate existing homes and are making decisions only when they are ready. In price ranges below 150,000 the market is a little more neutral. The new construction market in our area is still very strong. Even though in most cases a buyer pays a premium for new construction, many buyers are finding this to be the only way to get exactly what they want."

Zionsville

"The village of Zionsville will take you back in time," suggests Realtor Donna Larson. "The brick street in the center of town is lined with shops, including antique shops that bring people from all over the world. The gazebo in the park is the site for free concerts in the summer. This delightful town has a population of 8,700. Maintaining the old town feel is very important to the citizens of Zionsville. The Zionsville schools are very highly rated with a 99 percent graduation rate. There are 2 elementary, 1 lower middle, 1 upper middle and 1 high school. The median price for homes in Zionsville is $294,846. The average days on the market is 65. The style of the community and the reputation of the school system makes this a most desirable place to live."

Mooresville

"Mooresville is located approximately 10 miles southwest of Indianapolis in Morgan County," says Realtor Sharilee Gray. "It combines a small town atmosphere with the benefits of a big city. It offers a beautiful Midwestern setting for high quality life. Because of all it has to offer, Mooresville is becoming the new home for many businesses and families.

Gray adds, "Mortgage interest rates are at a record low even though they went up a little last month. Home sales are still at a record high. Many home owners are putting their homes up for sale, and purchasers are buying to take advantage of the lower interest rates. The supply of homes in the marketplace for purchasers to consider is excellent. The average days on market is about 90-120 days. The number of pending sales are up compared to this time last year. The cost of living remains below the national average."

Highland

"Highland is located just five minutes from the Illinois border, for a fast commute to Illinois employment," say Realtor Brenda Miley. " Also, you'll be only about 35 miles from Chicagoland, so you can enjoy the small town feel of this community, with quick access to the culture of Chicago, the theatres, Chicago's sports teams, and of course, fine dining. But, don't think that these choices aren't available In Indiana! You'll find local theatre, as well as many fine dining opportunities!

"Homes sales have remained brisk in 2003," continues Miley, "despite concerns on the economy in other sectors of the economy. In the period from April 1, through July 31, 2002, there were 71 homes sold, compared to 80 for the same period in 2003. Sales prices also increased for this same period in 2003, with the average sales price for 2003 in Highland going up from $121,076 in 2002, to an average sales price in 2003 of $133,846. This was influenced largely by the interest rate trend. Buyers realized that there might never be a better opportunity to afford their own home, and seller's took advantage of the opportunity to move up to their dream home!"

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Published: September 11, 2003

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