‘Louisville Neighborhoods’ Receives Some Press

Real estate is an interesting business, to say the least. At its very core, the idea is to simply bring two separate pieces together—a person and a property. Seems simple enough. But whenever money is involved, we all know that the proverbial wrench can be tossed in at any time.

For months now I’ve been building a Web site called Louisville Neighborhoods. This is one place where home buyers can learn not just about what homes are currently for sale, but about the neighborhood itself. What kind of homes does it contain? How large are the lots? Where is it situated? I even take photos of representative properties and landmarks.

It’s my goal for Louisville Neighborhoods to serve Louisville home buyers in their quest to find their dream home. Imagine my surprise when I received a call (and subsequent email) from representatives at Norton Commons demanding that I take down my page about their neighborhood.

Because the developers have trademarked the name, Norton Commons, they believe they are entitled to a have a say wherever it might be used. That’s likely a stretch considering the doctrine of Fair Use of Trademarks. But that’s not truly the point. The point is that my Web site is only going to promote their development to more potential customers. Said simply, I’m trying to bring them business.

This piece in the Courier talks about some incorrect information on my page, to which I respond, “Let me know about any needed corrections and I’ll be happy to include them.” The whole situation is a surprise to me. And if you think I’m surprised, how do you imagine Mr. Goldsmith feels?