Occasionally, because Bedico Creek Preserve is such a popular neighborhood on the northshore of Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans, Louisiana, we will have newspaper, magazine, and online articles and blogs written about our master-planned community. We feature these articles in our Press Room area. Also, we sometimes create press releases for special news and events that are happening at Bedico Creek Preserve. You can find all of this information, plus make media inquiries all right here in our Press Room.

Reviving Bowling in Mandeville with a $2 Million Investment

Cao, an entrepreneur known for turning around a bowling alley on the West Bank of Jefferson Parish, is making a $2 million investment to refurbish and reopen the long-closed Tiffany Lanes on La. 22 in Mandeville. The new venture, named Paradise Alley, is set to become the second bowling alley in St. Tammany Parish, joining the existing alley in Slidell.

“I think the area is primed,” said Cao, highlighting the need for more family entertainment options, as the alley has been closed for over a year.

The upgraded Paradise Alley will feature 32 lanes, with a focus on league play during weekdays and open bowling on weekends. Friday and Saturday nights may also include live music, adding a fresh twist to the traditional bowling experience. “I’d like to open sometime in September,” Cao mentioned, although the timeline depends on securing necessary permits.

From Banking to Bowling: Cao’s Journey

Cao, who spent 17 years in banking and also works in real estate development, is no stranger to the bowling business. In 2016, he led a $2.5 million renovation of Westside Lanes in Harvey, transforming the 20-lane alley. “I learned a lot from that,” he said, noting that Paradise Alley will be nearly twice the size of his previous project.

The 35,000-square-foot building in Mandeville has been extensively renovated. “I pretty much gutted everything,” Cao said, mentioning the installation of new lanes and the removal of drop-down ceilings to create a more open, inviting atmosphere.

Bowling’s Evolution in the U.S. and New Orleans

The U.S. bowling industry is still bouncing back from the challenges of the pandemic, but there’s a rich history in the New Orleans area. Bowling surged in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, with iconic local alleys like Bowlarama, Sugar Bowl Lanes, and Mid-City Lanes, which later became Rock ‘n’ Bowl, known as much for its live music as for its bowling.

While bowling’s future was questioned in the early 2000s, Cao believes it remains an attractive entertainment option — if done right. “Bowling has evolved,” he explained. “You have to offer more.”

Modern bowling centers now emphasize open, updated facilities with enhanced lanes, better food options, and added entertainment to draw crowds.

What to Expect at Paradise Alley

Though Paradise Alley’s menu will stick to classic bowling alley favorites like pizza, burgers, and fries, Cao promises a tastier experience. “It’s tough to change the mindset of what bowling alley food is,” he admitted with a laugh.

Weekends will likely feature live music or a DJ, but Cao doesn’t plan to keep the venue open past midnight.

As Mandeville gears up to welcome Paradise Alley, Cao is hopeful that his blend of classic fun and modern amenities will create a vibrant new gathering spot for the community.

Click Here For the Source of the Information.

36th Annual Monster Mash, October 19, 2024

This event is presented by Metairie Bank Northshore in Covington.

Monster Mash Fun Fall Family Festival

Bogue Falaya Park
213 Park Drive
Covington, LA 70433

October 19, 2024
  10am – 2pm

 Price: Adults: $5 | Children: $15 in advance, $20 at gate (kids under 2, free)

Click Here for More Information

Northshore Beer Festival, October 13, 2024

An event benefiting the Miracle League Northshore in Mandeville.

Northshore Beer Festival

 

Mandeville Trailhead
675 Lafitte Street
Mandeville, LA 70448


October 13, 2024
11am – 3pm

 

Price: $10 – $100

 

Click Here for More Information.

 

NAHB Associate Appreciation Night, October 10, 2024

If you bring a tradesmen you have a chance to win a door prize in Lousiaiana.

Associate Appreciation Night

October 10, 2024
4:30pm

Wild Bush Farm & Vineyard
81250 Old Military Rd.
Bush, LA 70431

Members free and nonmembers $45

Click Here to Get More Information

2024 Halloween in the Park, October 18, 2024

Celebrate Halloween in Ponchatoula.

Halloween in the Park

Ponchatoula Park
42074 N Hoover Rd
Ponchatoula, LA 70454

October 18, 2024
6:30pm – 8:30pm

 Click Here for More Information.

 

What Homebuyers Need to Know as the Year Progresses

The housing market may have had a slow start in 2024 as buyers waited for interest rate cuts, but there are still reasons to be optimistic. Despite high rates and elevated housing costs, buyers and sellers are seeing positive trends that could create new opportunities as the year moves forward.

Current Demand in the Housing Market

While the demand in the housing market has cooled compared to the highs of the past two years, it remains steady. Year-over-year demand has remained flat, but it has started to tick upward during the summer months, a time when the housing market typically picks up. One key factor is that buyers are now adjusting to mortgage interest rates ranging from 6-8%, and some have decided to jump into the market after waiting on the sidelines.

A recent survey found that over half of millennials and 40% of Gen Z respondents feel that now is a good time to buy, even with the higher interest rates. However, affordability continues to be a significant challenge. Over three-quarters of Americans cannot afford the median home price of $500,000, and half cannot afford a $250,000 home. If the supply of homes increases, prices may begin to decrease slightly. Encouragingly, the number of new single-family homes for sale was up nearly 12% year-over-year in April and continues to trend upward.

Where is the Housing Market Headed?

Interest rates are expected to come down gradually, but the pace will likely be slow. When reductions do occur, they may generate excitement and renewed activity in the housing market. Many experts predict that consumer demand will strengthen in the second half of 2024 and continue to improve as the year progresses. The fourth quarter, typically a quieter period for homebuying, could experience an upswing if rates are cut later this year.

Navigating Interest Rates

For homebuyers focused on securing the lowest possible interest rate, it may be wise to start looking now and purchase when you’re financially ready. Historically, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has averaged 7.68% since 1976. Fannie Mae forecasts that rates will slowly decline but remain above 6% through 2025.

If you can afford a home and qualify for a loan, waiting for further rate drops could delay your homebuying journey. Additionally, buying now and refinancing later—when rates potentially fall—could be a smart move. It allows you to lock in your home’s price, begin building equity, and then take advantage of lower rates in the future. If you’ve recently purchased a home and are considering refinancing, it’s essential to be aware of common mistakes to avoid.

Interest rate changes can cause spikes in demand, so it’s wise to be prepared. Knowing your desired neighborhood, having a solid financial plan, and getting pre-approved by multiple mortgage lenders can help you act quickly when the right home becomes available.

New Rules from the National Association of Realtors Settlement

A recent ruling affecting real estate transactions has also caught the attention of both buyers and sellers. Previously, sellers were required to pay their buyer’s agent’s commission—typically around 6% of the sale price. With the new ruling, this may no longer be the case, potentially offering more negotiation opportunities for commission fees.

It’s possible that buyers may now have more options, such as hiring agents offering reduced-price services or opting for self-guided viewings of homes through lockboxes. While first-time homebuyers may be concerned about the cost of paying for their agents, there’s potential for these fees to be negotiated into the sale price rather than paid out of pocket.

Moving at Your Own Pace

Buying a home is a significant financial milestone, but it’s important not to feel rushed. Moving forward at your own pace, based on your financial readiness, can help ensure a satisfying and successful purchase. While the market may fluctuate, being prepared with a clear plan and understanding of your financial goals will help you navigate the housing market confidently.

For those just getting started, tools like ComeHome can help buyers search for homes, while current homeowners can track their home’s estimated value and monitor neighborhood listings.

Click Here For the Source of the Information.