Buyers – Page 3 – Cape Coral real estate

Need a break from the winter weather?

February 4, 2011April 30, 2020newadmin

Punxsutawney Phil predicts that spring will come early this year! That is great news for the Northerners anxiously awaiting a break from the seemingly never-ending snow, ice and frigid
temperatures. This time of year many start daydreaming of somewhere warm to escape, for a much needed break from the sea of white.

The good news is that here in South West Florida the average temperature is 74.4 degrees, and 355 days a year we can count on the sun to be shining. So if escaping the harsh weather is just what the doctor ordered we have the cure. A home right here in our own private paradise of Cape Coral FL.

Not only do we have a large inventory of single-family homes and condo offered on and off the water, but we have some really great gated communities here as well. One community right here in Cape Coral that has a lot to offer is:

Sandoval

This gated community is well maintained with spotless grounds. Sandoval has tons of amenities to keep residents happy and busy. They have a large award-winning pool with slides for the kids and an area just for relaxing. There is 5,319 sq ft community center located in the center of the development which includes a gathering area, catering kitchen and state of the art fitness center. There is a court or field for every sport imaginable (volleyball, basketball, tennis, large open play field and even a bocce court) a pier to fish from, and they even offer an area for picnic’s and barbecue’s large enough to accommodate family and friends. Sandoval also has a fenced in area for your four legged family members to socialize in and burn of excess energy. There is even a 2 mile linear park for those beautiful after-dinner strolls.
Here are the specifics regarding Sandoval, today February 4, 2011.

Sandoval offers carriage homes, Single family homes, and villas. There are 20 properties available for purchase in this community ranging from $119,900 to $244,415. The majority are single family homes. The different floor plans available have a minimum of 2 beds and 2 baths with 1536 sq ft, all the way up to 5 beds and 3 baths with 2851 sq feet.

Out of the 20 available properties 2 are short sales. The community appears to have many happy residents taking advantage of the multitude of amenities and enjoying what this community has to offer. If we can assist you in buying or selling your next home in Sandoval or anywhere else for that matter we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

inquiry@FloridaFutureAgents.com

Condo or single family home?

January 12, 2011June 2, 2011newadmin

Many have decided that this is the year to buy a home, but aren’t quite sure if the monthly payments along with sole responsibility of all maintenance costs is quite what you had in mind, a condo seems like a great alternative. The prices for condos in Cape Coral are so
affordable and the amenities are so appealing that some buyers are seriously considering condos over homes. No mowing the lawn or replacing the roof, no pool upkeep, and best of all the very great prices in our area, including condos with gulf access. There are
381 condos actively for sale in Cape Coral, starting at $15,000 all the way up to $4.2 million. The median price is right at $115,000.

I am sure the biggest deciding factor is the home owners association (HOA) and the monthly fees associated with condo living. A home owners association is a group of local residents that work together to amend and enforce condo rules and maintain the community. They
often plan community functions, and take care of the communal spaces. Owners are required to pay a portion of these expenses charged monthly, quarterly, or annually.

Owning a condo is quite different then a home in the respect that in a condo you own only the interior of the unit. The common areas are shared by all residents. Many times the HOA fees cover Lawn care, exterior maintenance and upkeep, pool maintenance and cleaning, garbage collection, basic cable, exterior pest control, and building amenities. The HOA fees differ between communities and can include some or all of the mentioned services.

It is so important with the current housing market conditions to research the community’s solvency. See what kind of financial shape they are in, the balance of their capital reserve accounts; inquire about any upcoming or pending special assessments, and all pertinent information to help you make an informed decision.

If we can help you in your search for a condo, or a single family home, we would be happy help. We have many qualified agents that can walk you through the process. Please don’t hesitate to call; we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

inquiry@FloridaFutureAgents.com

State of Florida existing condo sales rise in November 2010

January 4, 2011June 6, 2011newadmin

It was recently reported that every 8 seconds this year a baby boomer will retire. Is that the reason for the recent rise in existing condo sales in the month of November? Many retirees often look for warm climates to spend their winters, and it appears Florida has been
on the top of the list. The Florida realtors association reports that an 11% rise in existing condo sales in November over the previous year. In 09′ 4860 condominium units were sold in comparison to 5411 in 10′. The median price for existing condos in the state
of Florida in 2009 was $88,200. In 2010 we saw a slight decrease in the median price it was $82,400.

In our area of Cape Coral the trend held true. In 2009, 498 condos sold with a median price of $76,000. In 2010 existing condo sale were 527 with a median price of $76,000. Is the trend because of the falling prices, retiree’s or increased interest in
foreign buyers? There are so many great condos offered at great prices, many located on golf courses or offered with gulf access.

We encourage buyers looking for a great new place to call home permanently or seasonally, come see what Cape Coral has to offer. If we can help with your search, please don’t hesitate to call. We look forward to speaking with you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

inquiry@FloridaFutureAgents.com

2010 year in review

December 29, 2010June 2, 2011newadmin

Well 2010 will soon be a distant memory, but the events that took place in the housing market will live in our minds and memories for years to come. This past year was full of tax credits,
historically low interest rates, and some controversy sprinkled on top. Here is an overview of the housing market headlines of 2010.

157 banks were closed down and taken over by the FDIC in early 2010.
First time home buyer and repeat buyer tax credit increased home
sales earlier this year.
30- Year fixed rate mortgages hit historical lows of 4.17 percent.
The big foreclosure freeze hit headlines accusing big banks of
robo-signing
An estimated 1 in 4 homes are upside down in America.
Many Americans are reducing debt and increasing their savings
It has been estimated the as many as 1 in 4 home sales were
distressed properties
HAMP and other loan modifications provided by mortgage servicers
will total nearly 1.5 million for 2010
Short sales were up 128% for Fannie Mae loans and 115% for Freddie
Mac- backed notes.
REO property totals at the end of the third quarter of 2010; Fannie
and Freddie combined totals were nearly 300,000 and their stocks worth
$1 dollar towards year end.

What a crazy year for the housing market home owners and big banks. We are optimistic for 2011 and the great changes to come. What we do know now for certain is that it could be a great time to buy, if we can help you in your search, please don’t hesitate to
call. We look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

inquiry@FloridaFutureAgents.com

Cape Coral’s local ecomomy looking good.

October 12, 2010June 2, 2011newadmin

Is Cape Coral’s local economy reversing the economic rut we have been in? A few new businesses are moving in to some buildings left vacant creating a bit of buzz as to the expected recovery of our community. Just in time for season Cape Coral has welcomed a
number of new business a few of which are already open and the remainder to open very soon.

Now open

The Original Moretti’s Italian Grill, 4721 Vincennes Blvd

Sans Sushi, 1306 Cape Coral Pkwy

Soon to open

La Terraza, South East 47^th Terrace

Jones’ Joint bar and restaurant, Lafayette St

Royal Key bar and grille, Cape Coral Pkwy

Chicago Pizza, South East 47^th Terrace

Sabatino’s Slice of New York, Cape Coral Pkwy

Adding to the list of new restaurants, Sweetbay opened recently adding 30 more employees to their roster, giving a boost to the local unemployed. In addition, plans have been made to add a new office building and a new pharmacy.

It appears we are on the mend, we are creating new employment opportunities, and giving new service choices to our residents, eliminating the need to travel into Ft. Myers, or elsewhere. The more we take advantage the services offered in our community,
the faster we can expect growth, and economic recovery.

If we can help with your buying or selling need please don’t hesitate to call, we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Inquiry@floridafutureagents.com

Foreign buyers making an impact on our market

October 7, 2010June 2, 2011newadmin

We have seen an influx of foreign buyers scooping up real estate in recent months, the reason for this increase is simple. The falling costs of real estate and the favorable money rate exchange is allowing for this trend to take place.

Foreign buyers who once thought living abroad was a pipe dream are now boarding planes from all around the world to cash in on our less than favorable real estate market. Instead of investing in stocks and bonds, they are using their savings to pick up heavily discounted properties, especially condominiums. Once the market rebounds they hope to sell these properties for a more than generous return on their investments.

Miami appears to be one of the cities seeing this increase, one particular complex is more than 90% owned by foreigners, particularly Europeans and Latin Americans. This isn’t the only state to report this trend; similar stories are being reported from Washington, New
York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

The questions remains, will these buyers help our sluggish real estate market quickly rebound? Probably not, but areas like Miami and Washington have stated it has at least helped their markets to stabilize. To put it into perspective foreign buyers still only
represent 7% of today’s totals according to the National Association of Realtors. We still have a ways to go to see our market completely turn around, but this jolt may get us heading in the right direction.

If we can help you with your buying or selling needs please don’t hesitate to call. We look forward to assisting you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team.

239-542-8521

Inquiry@floridafutureagents.com

Oktoberfest season is here

September 23, 2010October 24, 2011newadmin

It is officially fall. What does that mean for Florida native like me? Well it doesn’t include watching the leaves change, or transitioning the wardrobe from shorts to sweaters, it does however mean Oktoberfest.

The German American social club in Cape Coral holds its annual festival October 21st -30th full of German traditions, music, great food and of course beer. It inspired me to learn how this festival came to be. Turns out, in October of 1810 Prince Ludwig of Bavaria wanted to celebrate his marriage to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. Ludwig organized a horse race and invited all the residents of Munich. This celebration was a first of its kind it wasn’t common for nobles to associate themselves with commoners so this celebration was truly unique. More than 40,000 Bavarians attended the celebration held
in Munich on what they refer to as Theresienwiese(The Teresa meadow). By 1819 the race had been called off, and replaced with a carnival-like atmosphere, full of beer-carts and festival goers.

Oktoberfest is one of the largest celebrations held in cities and towns all over the world, Cincinnati is a close second to the Munich Festival boasting more than 700,000 participants. Oktoberfest traditionally begins the latter part of September and ends
the first Sunday in October.

Cape Coral ‘s Oktoberfest:

Where: German Americal Social Club

2101 SW Pine Island Rd.

When: The last two weekends in October

October:
21-23 & 28-30

Dust off the lederhosen and find your favorite stein Oktoberfest season is here.

If we can help you with your buying and selling needs, please don’t hesitate to call. We look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Susan@susanmilner.com

Wind mitigation inspection can save hundreds

September 22, 2010June 2, 2011newadmin

Did you know that you can potentially save hundreds on your home owner’s insurance policy? It is as simple as having a wind mitigation inspection. A wind mitigation inspection gives your
insurance provider with certain construction features specific to your home that make it more resistant to damage due to hurricanes. It is required by the state of Florida that insurance companies offer reduced rates to any qualified home.

What will an inspector look for?

An inspector will examine the level of hurricane protection on your
windows and exterior doors, such as shutters or impact resistant windows
and garage doors.
What type of roof your home has (a hip roof is the most desirable)
Roof to wall connections that are a installed with hurricane
clips/straps. The discount will vary depending on the type of connection
such as toe nail, clips, single wraps or double wraps.
Florida Building Code-approved roof covering.

Wind mitigation inspections are available for all single family homes, townhouses, and condos. Homeowner’s and Condo Associations also qualify for wind mitigation credits.

The “My Safe Home” program was discontinued by the State of Florida in August of 2008, it provided a free inspections to Florida residents. Only licensed building contractors or architects certified by the state are able conduct these inspections. The cost to have an inspection is minuscule compared to amount that you will be saving each year on your policy.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Susan@susanmilner.com

Sox and Mets will share City of Palms Park

September 8, 2010June 6, 2011newadmin

Fort Myers City of Palms Park has been home to the Boston Red Sox Spring training league since 1992. This year the Sox have opened the door to the NY Mets to host their fall instructional league beginning sometime mid-September. The Mets will send more than 40
minor league coaches and players to Fort Myers to train.

There is much speculation surrounding this visit. The Boston Red Sox will be moving to their new 89 million dollar complex in time for spring training of 2012, which will leave the City of Palms Park vacant. However, the Mets have indicated that they are happy with their current training facility in Port St. Lucie FL. The Mets spring training facility has been located there since 1988, with their lease set to expire in 2018.

The Mets have been known for taking their instructional league on the road, last year it was held in the Dominican Republic and Fort Myers this year. The Mets at this time have only made this arrangement for one year. This short term arrangement will not only be beneficial to the sox, but will also be great for our local economy.

If we can help with any of your real estate need please don’t hesitate to call, we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

inquiry@floridafutureagents.com

Rebates available for new energy efficient HVAC systems

August 31, 2010June 6, 2011newadmin

Many Florida home owners are thrilled to have a chance to replace their less efficient heating and air conditioning units, to an updated energy star rated model. It could not have come at a better time for some Floridians, whose electric bills are soaring and savings accounts have been dwindling. Help has come in the form of a rebate for HVAC systems. The rebate will be a flat $1,500 given in the form of an American Express prepaid card.

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as replacing your old unit with a new one and sending off your proof of purchase. Home owners must have a test performed on the duct work to determine whether they qualify for this rebate. The test MUST be performed by a Florida Class 1 Rater, A Florida licensed mechanical contractor, or a recognized test a balance agent. The fee to have this test performed can be anywhere from $300 to $500. Duct leakage can be no more than 15% to the outside,if it is shown to be more, repairs must be made at your expense or you cannot proceed with this program. After the proper tests have been performed and passed you then can purchase and install your new system.

The purchase and installation must be completed between Aug. 30 and Dec. 31 2010. There is only $15 million dollars allocated to support this program, so time is of the essence. In addition to the government tax rebate many air conditioning manufacturers may also offer
rebates as well, the combination of rebates and savings in energy cost could potentially save homeowners thousands. To qualify for this program it is essential to follow the entire process properly and return all the forms in the time frame specified.

For more information:

Florida Energy Star Residential HVAC Rebate Program

If we can help you with any of your real estate need please don’t hesitate to call, we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Susan@susanmilner.com

Easy to spot signs of Chinese Drywall

August 12, 2010June 2, 2011newadmin

With the home prices so affordable once again, there are many buyers looking for that next big purchase. Unfortunately, we have all been made aware that some home built or renovated after 2001 could potentially be constructed with Chinese drywall. These homes can be completely remediated, but some buyers just don’t want to go to the added time, energy and expense involved in buying this type of property.

These properties aren’t always clearly represented as infected drywall homes. So we as consumers need to get educated as to some of the most apparent and easy to spot signs. Obviously the best way is to hire a home inspector and they can without doubt confirm or deny any suspicion that you may have. When viewing multiple homes the cost
of an inspector can become very expensive. Here are some simple signs to help streamline our home search.

Smell of sulfur it is comparable to rotten eggs.

Was the home constructed or drywall replaced after 2001?

There may be corrosion of the evaporator coil.

Metal corrosion and blackening on one or more of the
following:

Copper wires

Ground wires

Electrical connectors

Un- insulated and un coated copper pipes

Chrome plated bathroom fixtures

Silver or copper hardware

The mirror backing in the bathroom

Discoloration of picture frames and kitchen utensils.

We hope to educated consumers and help them make informed and educated decisions, buying a home is a big investment and we want to help you make right decision for you and your family.

If we can help assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to call we would love to help your search for your new Cape Coral home.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Inquiry@floridafutureagents.com

Family fun for under $40.00

August 2, 2010June 2, 2011newadmin

What can family of 4 do in Cape Coral for fun with a budget of
$40.00? Turns out there are quite a bit to choose from. We
have so many beautiful parks to spend the day at, many of which line the
coast and have access to some great fishing spots. It is a
great way to relax with your family, have a picnic, play some football
and enjoy some fresh air.

If action is what you seek, Sunsplash Family Water Park would be a
great place to visit. They have superfast slides for the kids and a
lazy river for mom and dad. If you visit after 2:00 p.m. the cost
for your family of 4 is just under $40.00. Pack the sun block and enjoy
the summer weather.

Stop at Mike Greenwell’s for a family fun pass, this pass will cost
you slightly under $40.00. Included in this package are go-cart
rides, a few rounds of mini golf, arcade and batting tokens.
Fun for the whole family, at a reasonable price.

We also have many bowling alleys, great way to get out of the heat of
the day. Or spend the evening glow bowling. What a fun time
and very economical.

Take your family to Marquee Cinemas. Ticket prices are below $10.00
per person and even less if you go to the afternoon matinee.

In Cape Coral we also have some more educational activites for
you family that wont break the bank, your family can enjoy a stroll
through the Cape Coral Arts studio or the historical museum. Each
lending itself to a day full of history and culture.

The beach is also a great place to relax and enjoy your day.
Not only does the Yacht club have a beautiful pier to walk, an intimate
beach to soak up some sun, but you also have access to their pool; for
free.

Throughout the year we also have many local fairs and
festivals. Many local clubs organize such events as
Oktoberfest, Irish fest, Greek fest, arts and craft shows, and many
more. Enjoy some great food and get some exposure to different cultures
in our area.

As you can see, Cape Coral has many fun and economical things for a
family of 4 to do and experience, come and see what we have to offer.

Updated 1-18-11

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team.

239-542-8521

Susan@SusanMilner.com

Extension to the first time and repeat home buyer tax credits

July 8, 2010June 6, 2011newadmin

Congress just passed yet again another extension to the first time and repeat home buyer tax credits. The tax credits allow up to 8,000 to new home buyers and up to 6,500 to repeat home buyers. The former bill stated that a valid contract must be entered into by
April 30, 2010 and closed on or before June 30, 2010.

The new bill allows for a little breathing room to buyers who are involved with the arduous process of short sales and banked owned foreclosures, there are many of these properties available in today’s market and are offered at a discounted rates which makes them a
desirable. These types of transactions are known to take quite a bit longer than traditional real estate sales transactions to complete.

This new bill allows for all contracts entered into by April 30, 2010 can now be closed on or before September 30, 2010 and still be eligible for the tax credits. The new bill doesn’t grant any new tax credits, it only extends the deadline in which the transaction can be closed.

Home buyers and investors that have been involved in long bank negotiations can still reap the benefits of these generous tax incentives. This extension will allow buyers the opportunity to purchase a home or investment property they may have not been able to otherwise.

If we can help in anyway please don’t hesitate to call.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Inquiry@floridafutureagents.com

Absorption rate and how it affects you.

June 22, 2010June 6, 2011newadmin

Cape Coral’s real estate market has been less than predictable in recent years; we have had our share of ups and downs. As real estate professionals there are ways to track the markets progress and predict the changes to come. This prediction comes in the form of
absorption rate. The absorption rate is the rate in which the market absorbs and eliminates inventory. We have broken down Cape Coral price brackets and what it means to buyers and sellers.

Homes in Cape Coral with a price ranging from $0 to $150,000 have turned over 4.5 times in the past 12 months and currently, we have 2.6 months of inventory available in that specific price range.

Homes in the price range of $150,000 to $200,000 have turned over 2.3 times in the last year and the current inventory is 8.5 months.

Gulf access homes in Cape Coral at no specific price point, in the last year have turned over 1.4 times with an inventory of 8.5 months.

What do months of inventory indicate? Typically 1-4 months of inventory indicate a seller’s market, 5-6 months is generally a balanced market and 7 months or more points toward a buyer’s market.

How does this information specifically relate to buyers and sellers of Cape Coral real estate?

Sellers

The absorption rate is very important to know. Since it tells something about how long it might take to sell the home. A higher number of inventory typically means more competition from other sellers. A lower number may indicate that we are in a seller’s market, so the need to make sure your marketing strategies are “spot on” is detrimental to a quick sale. Good marketing will insure your home will be displaying a sold sign before you neighbors.

Buyers

Buyers also need to be aware of the absorption rate. If the market is shifting into a time of low inventory, it isn’t the time to be throwing out “low ball” offers hoping to get a good deal.
When inventory is low and buyers have increased, chances are the buyers will be introduced to a situation where the home has multiple offers. When inventory is high your chances of getting a “steal” have increased significantly.

Buyers and sellers who pay attention to the changes in the market will be more informed and can make decisions accordingly. Most important whether buying or selling real estate in Cape Coral it is important to work with an experienced agent to help you calculate the
absorption rates for the homes that you are interested in.

*This blog was written 6-22-10 all calculations are subject to change, for accurate up to date information please call a speak with our knowledgeable team members.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

inquiry@floridafutureagents.com

Government guidelines for the remediation of chinese drywall

June 8, 2010June 6, 2011newadmin

Many Cape Coral homes have been deemed “Chinese Drywall homes” and unfortunately that comes with a stigma. Most buyers are scared away from the thought of purchasing a home affected with this mainly because of the unknown. We have learned a lot about them in recent
months and there continues to be more information on how and what is necessary to correct the problems and make the home just like new.

Fortunately, the government has also stepped in and created a task force that studied the effects Chinese drywall has on each individual component of the home. It is now mandated and guidelines were created for removal and remediation. This allows home owner the
security of knowing the job was done correctly.

The Interim Remediation Guidelines for Homes with Corrosion form

Problem Drywall are as follows

They state that you must replace:

All possible problem drywall
All fire safety alarm devices(including smoke alarms and carbon
monoxide alarms)
All electrical component and wiring (including outlets, switches,
and circuit breakers);and
All gas service piping and fire suppression sprinkler systems

According to the guidelines, once these repairs have been made your home or potential home is ready and safe to occupy. People have once thought that it could spread to surfaces such as wood, tile, carpet, and furniture. The task force stated that they do not have
any scientific basis to believe that to be true.

The material in the effected drywall is high levels of sulfur, which emits a corrosive gas that attaches itself to anything metal (copper pipes, electrical wiring, HVAC, systems, appliances and so on) we know that the removal process can be time consuming and added expense is
involved, but people should not steer clear of these properties anymore. There are many of these homes in inventory that are priced well below market value giving the consumer the potential of instant equity once the repairs have been made.

We have been in contact with a local contractor that states they are able to repair these homes for approximately $21.00 a square foot (just to give you an estimate of the repair costs). This contractor will guarantee the complete removal of the drywall and all directly affected components.

We also have been made aware of a lender that has allocated funds for rehabs, including Chinese Drywall.

We hope this information help open doors for buyers that just haven’t found the “right” place.

All information above was gathered from the CPSC

Information is subject to change as investigations continue.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

239-542-8521

Inquiry@floridafutureagents.com