Anything Melbourne Florida Real Estate

Sandy Shores Melbourne Florida Real Estate Blogs

2008-07-29T14:28:00.001-04:00

Read my Melbourne Florida Real Estate Blog at

http://melbournerealestate.wordpress.com/

Topics covered include:

Maxwell C King Center for the Performing Arts

Come and Visit Brevard County Florida

National Do Not Call List for Cell Phones

Manatee Crossing in Melbourne Florida

Oscar Mayer Wienermobile in Melbourne

Let's Have a Sleepover Before you Buy My Home

Keep Bringing the Needed Rainfall

Florida Has Four Million Tourist Visits Each Year

Save Thousands in Mortgage Interest

Buyer Incentives, Do they Work?

If you Can't Sell it, Should you Swap it?

Condo Owners Having Difficulty Renting

Tenants - Paying too Much in Rent?

Tips for Avoiding Foreclosure

AND MORE...

or visit my website at http://www.sandyshoresmelbourne.com/

Melbourne Florida Craft Fair

2008-07-22T11:57:00.000-04:00

The Craft Fair is Coming to Melbourne Auditorium here in Melbourne Florida on July 26-27.
It will be an indoor, air conditioned craft show. It is sponsored by Buckler Craft Fairs. Hundreds of exhibitors will display their crafts. This will be a great time for those of you that love these types of bazaars and shows. There is something for everyone!
Some of the displayed items will include: Stained glass, pottery, arts and crafts, ceramics, quilts, needle work, folk art, unique gifts and home decor items.

Here is a coupon to get discounted craft fair tickets.
http://www.bpcraftfairs.com/coupon.html

Visit my website at http://www.sandyshoresmelbourne.com/.

Babies at Brevard Zoo in Melbourne Florida

2008-07-14T16:06:00.003-04:00

I love the zoo. The Brevard Zoo is located here in Melbourne Florida and is about 10 minutes from my home and just minutes off the Wickham Road exit of I-95. I love going to see all of the exotic animals, riding in the canoes and my favorite thing has to be seeing the new babies that are born at the zoo.

Currently the Brevard Zoo here in Melbourne Florida has new red wolf babies. This baby has beautiful piercing blue eyes.*

They also have a new baby Chilean pudu or better known to us as a tiny deer.*

The Brevard Zoo's mission is to provide top care to the animals. To provide opportunities for it's guests to experience nature. They provide learning experiences for Brevard County Public schools, through field trips. They support research projects locally and abroad.
*These pictures were featured in the Florida Today Newspaper.

Different types of Homeownership

2008-07-11T19:54:00.000-04:00

Did you know that there are several different ways in which a person, or two or more people can take title to a house that they purchase? So often buyers ask me how they should take possession of a property. As a REALTOR, I am unable to provide legal advice to clients. Each individual homebuyer's situation and portfolio must be looked at on a case by case basis.

There are many different options in which buyers are able to purchase a property and hold title to it. They can hold title to it individually, jointly, in a trust, as a co op, or in a corporation. I am attaching a recent article from the New York Times, explaining the various forms of homeownership.

If you have questions on which form of homeownership may be right for you, you may consider having an attorney and/or CPA be your guide.

Visit my website at http://www.sandyshoresmelbourne.com/.

Marriott Residence Inn Hotel In Melbourne Florida

2008-07-10T15:37:00.000-04:00

Marriott Hotels recently opened a new Residence Inn at the corner of Babcock St and Hibiscus Ave in Melbourne Florida. The new hotel is just one mile from the Melbourne Airport. It is only minutes from Downtown Melbourne, Holmes Regional Medical Center and Florida Institute of Technology.

Having lived in Melbourne since 1975 I have seen so many changes in the past 33 years. My husband and I were shopping across the street from the new hotel this past weekend. It seemed so odd to me to see such a huge beautiful building situated directly in front of what used to be the old Brevard Mall, many, many years ago. It used to be the only mall in Melbourne, a tiny one, with only 2 major department stores, JC Penneys and Sears. I remember as a teenager being dropped off at the mall by my parents so my girlfriends and I could go shopping. Oh, that was many years ago.

The new Marriott is an extended stay facility, boasting full kitchens with granite counter tops. It has free internet access, grocery services and housekeeping twice a week.

Breathtaking Sunset at Lake Washington in North Melbourne Florida

2008-07-08T16:50:00.001-04:00

I love watching the sunset, especially when I can see a view like this only 3 miles away from my home. It is a beautiful scenic road that takes me on my bike to this breathtaking spot.

These pictures were taken at Lake Washington Park in North Melbourne, Florida here in Brevard County Florida, off of Lake Washington Road.

RAW United Powerlifting Championships

2008-06-27T20:01:00.000-04:00

This weekend the RAW United Powerlifting National and State Championships will be held at West Shore Junior Senior High School here in Melbourne Florida in Brevard County on Saturday June 28 and Sunday June 29, starting at 9:30.

RAW United is a national powerlifting federation where lifters aged 12 to 75 years of age compete. The lifters come from all over the United States. Many of the lifters are 7th to 12th grade students from right here in the Melbourne, Palm Bay, Satellite Beach area. They compete in three different areas, deadlifts, benchpress and squats. Then, they compete for overall score. Their coach is Spero Tshontikidis.

RAW United powerlifting keeps teenagers off the street, it keeps them free of alcohol and drugs and it gives them the feeling of belonging.

If you have never been to one of these meets, it is worth coming out and watching one. The comaraderie between the new, young lifters and the older much more experienced lifters is infectious. Some of the people that I have met are some of the nicest, hardest working people that I have met.

My daughter, Sam Shores has been lifting for a year. She will be working this weekend towards breaking her own 3 world records, in deadlifts, squats and overall score. Sam is 13 years old and will be attempting a 230 lb deadlift this weekend.

If you get a chance, come on out and see some amazing athletes.

First Time Homebuyer Programs in Brevard County Florida

2008-06-24T10:27:00.000-04:00

Here in Melbourne Florida, located in Brevard County there are currently First Time Homebuyer Programs available. I wish I was a first time buyer! New buyers are receiving down payment and closing cost assistance to make it easier to get into their first home.

Home prices have been gradually becoming more realistic and smart buyers are snapping up deals.

Currently there are 270 homes for sale priced $150,000 and below in Melbourne, Florida. In January 2005 at the peak of our market there were less 4 homes available for sale in the North Melbourne area priced below $200,000, and none of those were priced below $150,000! Our market has certainly come full circle.

So, don't miss the opportunities available today. The last 4 buyers that I have worked with have used First Time Homebuyer Programs for their purchase. They were all provided with great packages to assist them with their purchase.

So, check with Brevard County to see what programs are available.

Or the City of Melbourne

or check with FHA

or the Department of Housing and Urban Development

or call me at 321-253-4545 , and I will be more than happy to give you additional information.

Kingsmill Subdivision - North Melbourne Florida

2008-06-13T23:35:00.000-04:00

Kingsmill is a conveniently located subdivision located in Melbourne Florida, in Brevard County close to shopping, dining, restaurants and gas, yet tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the “city”.
Kingsmill is centrally located, just minutes to shopping, dining, schools, Lake Washington, the Maxwell C King Center for Performing Arts, Wickham Road, I-95 and US1. Walk to groceries, shopping and fast food.

My family and I have lived in the Kingsmill Subdivision since 2001. Back in 1988 my sister and I had a home built in Kingsmill, where we lived for a year and a half.

Homes for Sale

Address	Bed	Bath	Pool	Sq ft	List price	Year

2667 Kingsmill Ave	3	2	No	1744	$ 169,900	1988
2434 Kingsmill Ave	3	2	No	1554	$ 169.900	1987
2833 Nobility Ave	3	2	No	1839	$ 179,000	1989
2413 Nobility Ave	3	2	No	1720	$ 187.900	1988
2615 Kingdom Ave	4	2	Yes	1806	$ 199,000	1988

Homes Under Contract

Address	Bed	Bath	Pool	Sq ft	List	Year	Contract

2490 Kingsmill Ave	4	2	Yes	1859	$ 246,900	1987	04/08

Homes Recently Sold

Address	Living ft	List	Sale price	Date	DOM

2416 Nobility Ave	1692	$ 189,900	$ 179,900	05/08	44
2629 Kingdom Ave	1978	$ 229,900	$ 215,000	05/08	70
2528 Nobility Ave	1742	$ 179,900	$ 179,900	12/07	23
2601 Kingdom Ave	1690	$ 229,900	$ 180,000	12/07	231
2794 Kingdom Ave	1593	$ 199,000	$ 185,000	12/07	13
2795 Empire Ave	2008	$ 189,900	$ 184,500	12/07	33

Brevard County Florida has Top FCAT Scores Again!

2008-06-11T13:08:00.000-04:00

Brevard County Florida Schools Ranked at the Top on FCAT scores, again!

Scores will be officially available to students on June 12, 2008 at www.fcatparentnetwork.com

In Florida students in grades 3 through 10 are required to take the State Standardized FCAT, the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, in math and reading. A level three on the FCAT means that the student is working at grade level. A level 1 or 2 means that the students are encouraged to attend 4 weeks of summer school, which start today.

In Florida, in 6th grade, 6 out of 10 of the top scoring classes were from right here in Brevard County.

This is the 8th year in a row that Brevard 6th graders ranked at the top of the state of Florida in FCAT scores.

Brevard was 5th of 67 districts in all grades for students passing the reading portion of the test.

Brevard was 8th of 67 districts in all grades for students passing the math portion of the test.

In six Brevard Public Schools, 100% of students scored a level 3 or higher in either math or reading. Those schools included Freedom 7 Elementary, Stevenson Elementary, West Melbourne Elementary, Royal Palm Charter School and West Shore Jr/Sr High.

For students that scored a level 1 or 2 on the FCAT, several factors are taken into consideration as to whether the student will be retained in their current grade. Their grades are taken into consideration, including their exam grades and their daily performance. Not all level 1 and 2 students are required to attend summer school.

Beautiful Lake Washington in Melbourne Florida

2008-06-06T20:00:00.006-04:00

Here in the Beautiful Lake Washington Area of Melbourne Florida there are so many breathtaking spots to enjoy. In a previous blog post, I mentioned that I was going to take time to stop and smell the roses. And, yesterday, I did.

I love bicycling. Years ago, my sisters and I used to get on our bikes 5 times a week and ride anywhere from 15 to 18 miles each ride. We trained for bike rallies that were 30 to 50 mile rides. I was always exhausted after a ride, but the next day, I felt incredible.

About 6 months ago I got back on my bicycle and started riding 7 miles, 3 times a week, out to Lake Washington and back. Then, as I often say, Life gets in the way of living. I got busy, ran out of time and I shifted to my inside treadmill 20 minutes a day, five days a week and there I remained, until yesterday.

My husband and I rode out to Beautiful Lake Washington in Melbourne Florida. We took our four year dog, Bailey the Boxer. The lake is exactly 3.5 miles from my home. The ride there is gorgeous. We live close to the city, but just a mile from the country, with beautifully appointed country homes situated on half acre to several acre homesites. Some are zoned for horses.

Lake Washington, which makes up the St. Johns River system is the largest lake in Brevard County. It is breathtaking in the evenings, as the sun is setting over the water. It is the 41st largest lake in Florida, situated directly next to the City of Melbourne Water Plant. Lake Washington is Melbourne's single most important source of fresh water.

We enjoyed the beautiful sunset, while Bailey the Boxer ran and played, and even splashed in the water. It was a perfect evening and we feel so fortunate to live in such a beautiful place.

Look at the World Through the Eyes of a 3 Year Old

2008-06-03T23:40:00.002-04:00

The other day I was out around town, here in Brevard County Florida, running errands. I had books to drop off at the public library. Twice a week for the past 12 years I have dropped off my daughters at dance classes, directly across the street from the library. But, typically I'm in a hurry to get to an appointment, show a house or get back to the office.

That day, for some reason, something caught my eye on the river, so I stopped for a minute. I was so glad that I carry my camera with me, because that day I saw sights that sometimes I forget are there.

Looking out across the Indian River Lagoon, I saw 4 sailboats, and people on the pier fishing. A pelican was diving to catch fish.

And I saw a little boy, about 3 years old, with a big smile and sunglasses, carrying a brand new fishing pole and a brand new tackle box. I stopped to watch. It was his first day ever, fishing, I know, because I heard him say, "Grandpa, I'm going to catch my first fish today. Because, I never been fishin' before. I'm gonna catch the biggest fish in the sea!" That little boy was so excited and mesmerized by the water and the thought of going fishing.

On that day, I took time to look and see what was around me. The sights, sounds and smells were incredible.

Do you stop to smell the roses? Do you have time to take in the beauty around you or are you in a hurry to get to your next destination?

I've resolved to slow down...and stop to take in some of the incredible sights here in my own backyard in Melbourne Florida!

Next time you're out running around, take time to look at the sights around you.

Just once, try looking at the world through the eyes of a three year old! It's amazing what you'll see!

Shuttle Discovery - Liftoff Pictures - May 31, 2008

2008-06-01T19:13:00.001-04:00

The Space Shuttle Discovery lifted off into space on May 31, 2008 at 5:02 in Cape Canaveral, here in Brevard County Florida. The day was perfect and the sky couldn't have been more clear. For those of us fortunate enough to live here in Brevard County Florida, this is how the liftoff looked. My family and I stood out in our front lawn to watch the shot. I wanted to share it with the rest of you, as it is a breathtaking sight to see.

This picture was featured in the Florida Today Newspaper.

If you are interested in viewing additional upclose photos of the Discovery launch, go to Florida Today News and above the graduation pictures, choose the tan shuttle button, then go to photo galleries, liftoff and launch. The photos are incredible!

Will the Real Estate Market Continue to Pick up?

2008-05-30T11:39:00.006-04:00

Well, here we are...in Brevard County Florida...and summer starts in a few days. What does this mean for the local market? Will the real estate market continue to pick up?

How did summer sneak up on us so fast?

In previous years, June has been a pretty quiet month. Parents and students are getting adjusted to to their new summer schedules. Tuitions are being paid for summer programs, camps and often colleges. And often times, families are taking that much needed family vacation.

Well, for me, July has been one of the busiest months of the year in Real Estate. Buyers and sellers with school age children have settled into their summer routines, and often, they decide to make that move to a new, bigger or different home. So, business picks up. July is the perfect time to move, right in the middle of the summer.

Then, in August, it is time to begin thinking about school again. Fees are being paid for tuitions, supplies and new clothes to start the new year. So in the past, the market seemed to settle back down.

In October, the snowbirds come back and fill another niche in our communities when they begin purchasing homes for the winter.

So, enjoy your summer and let's sit back and see if the market continues to pick up in Brevard County Real Estate.

Housing Permits Up in Brevard County Florida

2008-05-29T11:26:00.002-04:00

The Home Builders and Contractors Associatiion of Brevard has indicated that housing permits were up in April 2008 in Brevard County Real Estate. April had the highest number of permits issued this year. There were 162 new permits in April, compared to 102 in March, 81 in February and 96 in January. 144 of these permits were for single family homes. 18 were fro multi family property. These housing permits were issued in Melbourne, Viera, Palm Bay, Rockledge and West Melbourne.

Housing permits numbers are still below figures at this same time last year.

We are hearing that builders are slowly beginning to build spec homes (homes built in the hopes that a buyer will soon become interested in them).

Is this a sign that the market is stabilizing? Some people think so.

Many foreign buyers are coming to Brevard, and purchasing homes, due to the favorable exchange rates. Many buyers from the United Kingdom and Canada are flocking to Florida.

Kingsmill Subdivision - Melbourne Florida

2008-05-27T14:41:00.004-04:00

Kingsmill Subdivision

Lake Washington Road

North Melbourne Florida

Kingsmill is a well appointed subdivision close to city conveniences, but tucked away, close to a country setting. The 324 homes in Kingsmill are situated on 1/4 acre to 1/2 acre lots. The area is well maintained. Kingsmill boasts 2 community parks. Homes are typically from 1500+ square feet to just over 2000 square feet of living, built between 1986-1989. The primary home builder is Maronda Homes, with some custom homes built on 1/2 acre lots by Joyal Construction and Tiffany Construction.

Kingmill is centrally located, just minutes to shopping, dining, schools, Lake Washington, the Maxwell C King Center for Performing Arts, Wickham Road, I-95 and US1. Walk to groceries, shopping and fast food.

Homes for Sale

Address	Bed	Bath	Pool	Sq ft	List	Year

2667 Kingsmill Ave	3	2	No	1744	$ 169,900	1988
2434 Kingsmill Ave	3	2	No	1554	$ 179.900	1987
2600 Majestic Ave	3	2	No	1659	$ 184,900	1986
2413 Nobility Ave	3	2	No	1720	$ 187.900	1988
2615 Kingdom Ave	4	2	Yes	1806	$ 199,000	1988
2629 Kingdom Ave	3	2	Yes	1989	$ 229.900	1989

Homes Under Contract

Address	Bed	Bath	Pool	Liv ft	List	Built	Date

2416 Nobility	3	2	No	1692	$ 189,900	1987	04/17/08
2490 Kingsmill	4	2	Yes	1859	$ 246,900	1987	04/18/08

Homes Recently Sold

Address	Living ft	List price	Sale price	Date	DOM

2528 Nobility	1742	$ 179,900	$ 179,900	12/07	23
2601 Kingdom	1690	$ 229,900	$ 180,000	12/07	231
2794 Kingdom	1593	$ 199,000	$ 185,000	12/07	13
2795 Empire	2008	$ 189,900	$ 184,500	12/07	33

Read the most recent Kingsmill Grapevine

Space Shuttle Discovery Launch Scheduled for May 31, 2008

2008-05-25T21:55:00.007-04:00

Here in Brevard County Florida we can stand in our front yards and watch the breathtaking shuttle and rocket launches. I haven't missed a single launch in the over 33 years that I have lived in Melbourne Florida. Every single one is different than the last one. But, the one common thread that they all have is that they are an absolutely incredible sight to see.

The next shuttle launch is scheduled for May 31, 2008 at 5:02 PM. The shuttle will take the largest piece of the Japanese space agency's Kibo lab to the space station. There it will be installed.

If you have never seen a launch, you truly don't know what you are missing. Come to Cape Canaveral Florida in Brevard County and watch a launch. You will never forget the up close experience of seeing and feeling the shuttle liftoff.

Visit the homepage of my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne and click on Brevard County photos for pictures of the Shuttle Discovery rollout to the launch pad for upcoming launch.

Brevard County Florida Real Estate - Tips for Avoiding Foreclosure

2008-05-22T10:37:00.009-04:00

A foreclosure forum was held at the Melbourne Rialto Place Hotel on Tuesday. The event was to help those caught in the Brevard County Florida Real Estate market slowdown and provided tips to help homeowners avoid foreclosure. The forum pointed out that banks are not in the business of owning real estate. They want to work with homeowners and help them through their financial problems.

Foreclosure proceedings typically begin when a mortgage holder is three months behind on their mortgage payment. Not every filing leads to an actual foreclosure.

According to HUD, US Department of Housing and Urban Development tips for avoiding foreclosure are as follows:

1. Don't pretend the problem doesn't exist.
The further you get behind, the worse your situation will get.

2. Contact your bank or mortgage company right away.
Today, lenders have programs and options to help you work through your financial troubles.

3. Open all the mail your bank or mortgage company sends.
Failure to read bank correspondence will not excuse you in foreclosure court.

4. Know your rights as a mortgage holder.
Read and be sure you understand all of the loan documents you signed. Often times, this is what got borrowers in trouble in the first place. Contact the Florida Housing Coalition at 850-878-4219 to understand Florida foreclosure laws and your rights.

5. Research your options.
Check on the FHA website for foreclosure prevention options.

6. Contact a HUD approved housing counselor.
Free or low cost housing counseling is available nationwide or call 1-800-569-4287.

7. Prioritize your spending.
Your house should be your first priority, after paying for your health care. Cut spending and see what can be cut out of your budget. Pay your mortgage first.

8. Use your assets.
Can you sell anything to pay your mortgage payment? Can someone in the family get an extra job? Show your lender that you are making the effort to stay abreast of your payments.

9. Avoid foreclosure prevention companies.
Do not pay a company to help get you from going into foreclosure, the money would be better spent paying your mortgage payment.

10. Don't lost your house to a scam.
Do not sign over your home to company claiming to help stop the foreclosure proceedings on the home. Never sign a legal document without first consulting with an attorney, a HUD approved counselor or a trusted Real Estate professional.

Condo Owners Have Difficulty in Renting Units

2008-05-20T12:16:00.006-04:00

Some condo owners that are unable to sell their units are turning to renting, as the next best option. Some money coming in to pay the mortgage and association fees is better than nothing at all. However, some owners are finding difficulty in renting the units.

Some condo associations prohibit renting units. And some communities only allow a certain percentage of units to be rented in relation to the number of units that are owner occupied. The restrictions are primarily in place to safeguard the condo as being labeled a "risk" to lenders making loans in these communities. In order for a loan to be Fannie Mae guaranteed the condo in question cannot be located in a community comprised of more than 49 percent tenant occupied units. Often times, a high number of tenants in an area projects negative implications to a potential home buyer.

Unfortunately, when many of these condo owners originally purchased, they did not do so with the intent of turning the unit into a rental. Thus, they were unaware of the guidelines at the time of purchase.

Brevard County Real Estate April 2008 Average Sales Prices

2008-05-16T13:30:00.005-04:00

According to the Melbourne Association of REALTORS average sales price statistics for April 2008 in Brevard County Florida Real Estate are as follows:

The average sale price of a single family home was $226,713.

This is down by 7.63% from April 2007 at $245,431.

However, the largest number of homes sold in the $120,000 - $139,999 price range.

Then, the next largest category of homes sold was in the $180,000 - $199,999 range.

The average sale price of a condo was $227,864.

This is down by 17.41% from April 2007 at $275,882.

The average sale price of a townhouse was $200,721.

This is up by 5.67% from April 2007 at $189,526.

The largest number of condos and townhouses sold in the $250,000 - $299,999 price range.

The second largest number of units sold was in the $120,000 - $139,999 range.

Watch out for these Scams

2008-05-12T11:58:00.009-04:00

Today, more than ever we are hearing of more types of scams. Strangers are attempting to weasel your money away from you. Are you protected? Do you know what to be aware of?

You get an email from the IRS saying that you haven’t cashed your refund check yet. They request personal info from you trying to steal your identity.

A person from another state or country responds to your item for sale in an ad. They mail you a check for more than the price of the item, and request a refund of the difference back. You mail them the item and a check for the overpayment amount. Weeks later their bogus check is returned by your bank, and unfortunately you are responsible for it since you signed it.

You get an email from your credit card company telling you there is suspicious activity on your credit card. The emails inform you to click the link and fill out your personal information. DON"T. This scam diverts your information to a bogus page that may look exactly like your credit card company website. After you provide them with all of your personal information, then they proceed to steal your money. If you get one of these emails, close it immediately, DO NOT look at any of the links! Pull out your credit card statement, find the customer service phone number and call them right away.

You get an email from a far off nation outside of the US saying that the sender was the rich daughter of a recently deceased Ambassador (or something to that effect). It explains that her father died with millions. In order to get his fortune out of this far away land it would require a US citizen to claim his riches. The sender would share his fortune if you would send her money to come to the US to start the process. DON'T! There are many variations of this scam all over the internet today. They want to steal your hard earned money away from you!

Watch out for bogus online charities, claiming to help the victims of natural disasters. Some are criminals.

There are many different types of scams going on today. To find out more look at the Federal Reserve Consumer Education website for additional information.

Brevard County Florida School FCAT Scores - How did your school Perform?

2008-05-09T12:04:00.007-04:00

Brevard County Florida School FCAT Scores - How did your school Perform?

Each year Florida students must take the standardized FCAT test or the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test. The test is used to determine whether a student is eligible to go on to the next grade. A student must score a level three or higher, which is at grade level, on the FCAT.

Third through tenth grades are required to take the reading and math tests. In addition, grades four, eight and ten take the writing portion of the test. And, grades five, eight and eleven take the science portion of the test.

How did your school perform? See the Brevard County Florida School FCAT scores

Melbourne Association of REALTORS Licensees

2008-05-09T10:47:00.013-04:00

According to the current membership statistics for the Melbourne Association of REALTORS these are the Real Estate licensee numbers to date in May 2008:

Designated REALTORS-327 - Brokers

REALTORS (R’s) 1505

Secondary DR’s 36 - Broker is licensed with another Board of REALTORS, but also has a license with MAAR

Secondary R’s 9 - REALTOR is licensed with another Board of REALTORS, but also has a license with MAAR

Affiliates 98
Institute Affiliates 9
Businesses who are NOT engaged in real estate, but serve the needs of licensees and their clients, such as mortgage, title, and home inspection companies

Licensees 1886

TOTAL 1984 - licensees, secondary licensees and affiliates

Tenants - Paying too much in Rent?

2008-05-07T13:19:00.007-04:00

Tenants, are you paying too much in rent?

Prospective tenants, are you getting a good deal?

Landlords, are you charging enough in rent?

Now, with Rentometer.com you can easily determine what market rent should be on a house or apartment. Rentometer takes the overall comparable rental information in the area (not including amenities and upgrades). It locates other rentals in the area and looks at comps. Then, it shows you whether the rent is high, reasonable or low on the property in question. So, type in your address today.

Disclosure: Please be aware that Rentometer does not have access to every property rented in your area. It also does not take into consideration condition, amenities or upgrades. So, please use Rentometer strictly as a guideline in researching your property. Please research other comparable rental sites for your area, and combine all of the information to make a sound decision.

FLORIDA REAL ESTATE LICENSEES TRIPLED IN 2000-2005

2008-05-06T09:20:00.012-04:00

In Florida from 2000-2005 there were 115,000 new real estate sales licenses issued. That's triple the figure from 1994-1999!
2,688 of those licenses were issued here in Brevard County Florida, according to figures from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. That nearly quadruples the figure from the previous 5 years when 708 new licenses were issued.
In 2007, the number of new Brevard County licensees dropped by about 1/2 of those in 2005.
Today, nearly 1/4 of real estate licenses are in inactive status.

Is this an indication of the shift in our local market? Are licensee numbers declining because new agents found the business more difficult than expected? Did they find that it required more hard work and knowledge than originally anticipated? Or, is it because buyers got buried in their overpriced purchases? And, it was inevitable for the market to readjust, thus creating a market slowdown? Competition at the peak of the market was fierce. Often times ethics were thrown out the window in many areas of the market.

So, now it's time for those of us, long term agents, to help buyers and sellers "attempt" to pick up the pieces and hopefully move forward. Perhaps, it is time to bring back a bit of "normalcy" and good old fashioned ethics to all sectors of the real estate marketplace.

Cut Years Off of Your Mortgage and Save Thousands in Interest

2008-05-05T10:22:00.011-04:00

Did you know that you can cut years off of your mortgage and save thousands in interest?

By making one additional principal payment each year on your 30 year fixed rate mortgage, you can cut approximately 8 years* off of the length of your loan and save tens of thousands of dollars.

Have you heard about bi weekly mortgage payments?

These are when your mortgage payment amount is divided in half and you make the payment every 2 weeks, in effect adding one additional payment to your loan by the end of the year. Often times they cost a hefty fee to set up and the lending institution charges a monthly fee to process the payment. You can create the same effect by making an additional mortgage payment each year.**

Are you thinking that you just don't have the extra money each year to mail in an additional payment?

Well, try this... divide your monthly mortgage payment by 12. Every month mail the additional 1/12 payment amount in with your monthly payment. So, if your monthly mortgage payment is $1200, $1200 divided by 12 =$100. Every month mail in $1300. At the end of the year, you will have made an additional principal payment.

It is advisable to send the extra principal payment to your lender in a separate check. It is important that you specify that the extra funds are to be used as a principal reduction. Check your online statement regulary to be sure this is being done.

Before starting a plan like this, be certain that your loan has no prepayment penalties. If you aren't sure, check with your lender first.

*This figure may vary depending on the type of your loan.

**A true analysis can be done by using a mortgage calculator and running an amortization schedule to determine which program will provide the greatest benefit to you.

100% RAW Powerlifting High School and National Competition

2008-05-04T16:55:00.005-04:00

100% RAW Powerlifting Competition
Sam Shores World Record Holder
This picture was featured in Florida Today>>>>>

Sam Shores competed in the 100% RAW Powerlifting High School & Nationals Competition at West Shore Junior Senior High School in March 2008. Lifters from around the state congregate, ages 10 to 74 years old! They compete in squats, push pull dead lift, bench press and overall total combined score. These athletes are absolutely phenomenal! The support and enthusiasm for other lifters is infectious! The older, more experienced lifters are honored to see 10 year old girls and boys out there attempting to push as much weight as their bodies can bear. I suppose, they remember where they got their start.

Well, I have to say there were many records that broken and surpassed over the weekend, both state and world records! 100% RAW Powerlifting Federation has some unbelievable lifters!

Sam started lifting in July 2007, starting in the 7th grade. Sam has the most phenomenal coach, Spero Tshontikidis! The man is the most dedicated, hard working coach I have ever met! He trains lifters of all ages and competes himself. He is the West Shore Junior Senior High School Wildcat Powerlifting coach. His devotion to the students is to be highly commended. He is one of the most decent human beings I have ever met.

There were many records set at the meet. Sam beat 3 of her own world records. She hit 145 lbs in squats, 200 lbs in dead lift and she beat her overall score with a combined total, squats, bench press and dead lift of 400 lbs!

If you have never been to one of these meets, take a day and go see one. You will find some of the nicest, most spiritual, hardest working people you'll ever meet!