Every day it seems a new home or homes are listed in the Kissimmee/Osceola County area, which are subject to a short sale contingency.
Some agents are pulling their hair out over the frustration they feel when trying to get all parties: lenders, sellers, buyers and agents on the same page in order to close these deals. The paperwork and time involved with a short sale, with results and answers often coming no faster than a sleeping snail, have many agents reluctant to get involved with the process.
Regardless of how agents feel about the short sale process, these transactions do offer insight to how the market will eventually become healthy.
Many homes listed with a short sale contingency are receiving something not normally found in today’s real estate. Multiple offers. With so many opinions on how these offers should be handled, we may have lost sight of an important fact, the multiple offer fact.
Why are these homes receiving multiple offers when as an industry we have been lamenting the lack of buyers? What magical lure do these types of homes have over buyers?
Sellers who are not faced with the short sale situation, but unable to attract a buyer to even look at their home, should contact their agent and find out what this magical lure is.
The answer is there.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Smart home sellers listen to what the market is telling them.
2.5 million dollars in price reductions
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Mar 30, 2008
Home sales report - Osceola - Kissimmee Florida
Here is a look at the Osceola County home sales through last week. Osceola County includes homes for sale in Kissimmee Florida.
Related Florida real estate views:
Osceola Florida real estate market
SHIP assists low income Osceola buyers with home purchase
The Osceola County Citizens’ Academy
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Price your home below others in your area
This video offers insight to those who need to sell in this market. Past home values and what you may want for your home will not be determining factors for what your home may sell for now.
Related Florida real estate views:
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 27, 2008
Come home to Kissimmee. Lovely Kissimmee 4 bedroom home for sale.
This Kissimmee home has it all!
Beautiful home nestled in prestigious gated community Regal Cove near Lake Toho.
Built in breakfast nook; custom chairs; breakfast bar; closet pantry; smooth top stove; down draft-retractable exhaust fan; recessed lighting & under cabinet lighting! Custom entertainment center & built in side buffet table.
Double doors to master bathroom, huge walk-in closet, double vanities, large shower, dual shower heads & waterfall faucets! Tile in all the living & wet areas; upgraded light fixtures, mood lighting & accent lighting; custom window treatments; lightning & surge protection for electronics; thermal, double pain windows; emergency generator hook up; monitored alarm system; termite protection since new (transferable); multi-zoned AC; lots of windows for natural lighting; surround sound; ozone water system & water softener, & much more!
Professionally landscaped, automatic irrigation, large fenced backyard, hurricane shutters, large lanai, wet bar & grill, 3 car side garage and door openers!
Related Florida real estate views:
Where can you find a really big home in Central Florida?
Kissimmee is an All American City
Kissimmee housing statistics - 2007
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Deland’s Victoria Park shopping center construction continues
Search for a home in Victoria Park
The Daytona Beach News Journal Online reports that 3 commercial buildings that are part of the Village Center, the commercial center located near the Victoria Park community, are on track for completion with many of the tenants expected to be in place by May.
Victoria Park is located in Deland Florida.
Related Florida real estate view:
Deland houses for sale
Volusia County schools receive good grades
Deland home for sale with separate in-law suite.
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
The Daytona Beach News Journal Online reports that 3 commercial buildings that are part of the Village Center, the commercial center located near the Victoria Park community, are on track for completion with many of the tenants expected to be in place by May.
Victoria Park is located in Deland Florida.
Related Florida real estate view:
Deland houses for sale
Volusia County schools receive good grades
Deland home for sale with separate in-law suite.
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Why homeowners refuse to lower the price of their homes
Lack of motivation and lack of equity are major reasons homeowners refuse to lower the price of their home. If you do not need to sell, now is not the time to try for top pricing or testing the market. If you are unable to sell for what you owe, there might be options available to you.
Related Florida real estate views:
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 25, 2008
Florida residents can receive a free home wind inspection
My Florida video discusses how to apply for a free Florida wind inspection to help save on insurance.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee - Hurricane Preparation Expo
If a hurricane results in flooding, is your home protected?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Florida home median sales price increase
“In February 2003, the statewide median sales price for single-family homes was $140,500, an increase of about 41.6 percent over the five year-period, according to FAR records.”
Over 41% since 2003 according to a published report on FAR’s website. What does this mean to a potential home buyer in today’s market? Homes are typically a good mid to long-term investment.
Related Florida real estate views:
Florida home prices increase by 26%
Orlando home prices are within reach of potential homebuyers
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
SHIP assists low income Osceola buyers with home purchase
Assistance is based on the availability of funds for low and very low income in Osceola County. Income limits effective March 2008.Related Florida real estate views:
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
Obtain an FHA home loan when buying your next home
Buying a short sale home in Kissimmee
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 24, 2008
Short sale expert
Is it possible to be an expert auto mechanic if you have never worked on a car but took a class about working on cars?
Can you be an expert cook from watching a cooking video?
Many agents are claiming to be short sale experts and yet have not closed even the first transaction that was contingent upon a short sale.
That worries me.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Can you be an expert cook from watching a cooking video?
Many agents are claiming to be short sale experts and yet have not closed even the first transaction that was contingent upon a short sale.
That worries me.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 23, 2008
Seller home disclosures may need updated prior to selling
When an agent first meets with a seller and has them sign the listing paperwork, part of the paperwork the seller completes and signs is a “seller property condition disclosure”.
This disclosure alerts potential buyers of repair and maintenance issues affecting the home of which the seller is aware of at the time of the listing. Home buyers should always ask to see the seller disclosures for a property they are considering buying.
Today’s real estate market has created a situation that many agents and sellers need to be mindful of. With the average days on the market extending past 4 months or longer, the home may face new repair or maintenance issues that have developed since the initial listing period.
The seller should acknowledge these new issues in writing. Listing agents should have the sellers update their original disclosure document when conditions within the home change.
Keeping information current and accurate regarding a home is critical as the time a home spends on the market increases. Make sure you have fully disclosed all known defects and issues about your home or property throughout the listing period.
Related Florida real estate views:
I am not going to give my home away!
Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
This disclosure alerts potential buyers of repair and maintenance issues affecting the home of which the seller is aware of at the time of the listing. Home buyers should always ask to see the seller disclosures for a property they are considering buying.
Today’s real estate market has created a situation that many agents and sellers need to be mindful of. With the average days on the market extending past 4 months or longer, the home may face new repair or maintenance issues that have developed since the initial listing period.
The seller should acknowledge these new issues in writing. Listing agents should have the sellers update their original disclosure document when conditions within the home change.
Keeping information current and accurate regarding a home is critical as the time a home spends on the market increases. Make sure you have fully disclosed all known defects and issues about your home or property throughout the listing period.
Related Florida real estate views:
I am not going to give my home away!
Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Realtors should not write home loans
I do not understand why some real estate companies allow their associates to work as mortgage loan consultants. With mortgage fraud so prevalent in this country, it would seem to me that the risks out way the benefits of having agents work in this dual role.
Watson Realty Corp has a separate mortgage company with loan consultants who only handle home loans. Real estate agents who work with Watson Realty Corp. do not write loans, broker loans or act as mortgage officers.
Having this policy in place goes a long way in helping us avoid situations like the one discussed on this blog.
Related Florida real estate views:
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
Is customer service improving as the market weakens?
Mortgage insurance premiums may be tax deductible
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Watson Realty Corp has a separate mortgage company with loan consultants who only handle home loans. Real estate agents who work with Watson Realty Corp. do not write loans, broker loans or act as mortgage officers.
Having this policy in place goes a long way in helping us avoid situations like the one discussed on this blog.
Related Florida real estate views:
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
Is customer service improving as the market weakens?
Mortgage insurance premiums may be tax deductible
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 20, 2008
Mortgage insurance premiums may be tax deductible
Did you buy a home in 2007? You may be able to treat you mortgage premiums as mortgage interest. You can find out more by visiting this IRS page.
Home builders building fewer homes
In the wake of fewer home buyers and rising inventories, new home starts fell in February according to a press release from the National Association of Home Builders.
Related Florida real estate views:
Builders confident buyers will take advantage of tax credit
Housing slowdown slows paint sales
Builders say tax credit will boost sales.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Related Florida real estate views:
Builders confident buyers will take advantage of tax credit
Housing slowdown slows paint sales
Builders say tax credit will boost sales.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 18, 2008
Condominium addendum and condo documents
The condominium addendum and documents per law must be a part of every condominium sale. All time lines must be observed. The following do not eliminate the need for the condo addendum and documents:
a. Buyer already lives in the condominium complex, has received copies of the condo documents in the past or may have a copy.
b. Buyer has written a previous contract on the unit, received condo documents at that time and signed off on the documents per that contract.
Note: The condominium addendum must be a part of the contract. The documents must be delivered to the buyer. The time lines must be followed in all of the cases.
Related Florida real estate views:
Condo for sale Florida ocean view
Florida condo for sale with ocean view!
Casselberry condo in a ski lake community for sale
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
a. Buyer already lives in the condominium complex, has received copies of the condo documents in the past or may have a copy.
b. Buyer has written a previous contract on the unit, received condo documents at that time and signed off on the documents per that contract.
Note: The condominium addendum must be a part of the contract. The documents must be delivered to the buyer. The time lines must be followed in all of the cases.
Related Florida real estate views:
Condo for sale Florida ocean view
Florida condo for sale with ocean view!
Casselberry condo in a ski lake community for sale
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Watson Realty has the lion's share of the market.
Here is a new marketing card released by Watson Realty which uniquely shows that Watson Realty continues to have the largest share in the market areas we service.
Sellers, buyers and agents understand that to be successful in this market, you have to be the best.
Related Florida real estate views:
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 17, 2008
Real estate school in Orlando
Class schedules for the upcoming real estate school are:
Starting March 31 to May 5th 2008 Classes will be on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from
6 PM - 10 PM for the SPECIAL PRICE of $99.00 + $40.00 for the New Text Book
Classes will be held at:
SOUTH ORLANDO Watson Office
1945 E. Michigan St.Orlando, FL. 32806
Starting April 15 to May 19 2008 Classes will be on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from
6 PM - 10 PM for the SPECIAL PRICE of$99.00 + $40.00 for the New Text Book
Classes will be held at:
LONGWOOD Watson Office
1445 W. SR434 Suite 200Longwood, FL. 32750
Related Florida real estate views:
Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee
Florida now requiring more experience before obtaining real estate broker license
Kissimmee real estate school starting in August
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Starting March 31 to May 5th 2008 Classes will be on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from
6 PM - 10 PM for the SPECIAL PRICE of $99.00 + $40.00 for the New Text Book
Classes will be held at:
SOUTH ORLANDO Watson Office
1945 E. Michigan St.Orlando, FL. 32806
Starting April 15 to May 19 2008 Classes will be on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from
6 PM - 10 PM for the SPECIAL PRICE of$99.00 + $40.00 for the New Text Book
Classes will be held at:
LONGWOOD Watson Office
1445 W. SR434 Suite 200Longwood, FL. 32750
Related Florida real estate views:
Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee
Florida now requiring more experience before obtaining real estate broker license
Kissimmee real estate school starting in August
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Pricing your home right from the beginning
Here is a perfect example of what this market is doing to those who do not price their home correctly at the beginning and then attempt to chase down the market.
Related Florida real estate views:
Smart home sellers listen to what the market is telling them.
Home not selling? What does your agent say?
Price reductions - Price improvements - Price correctly
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
- Agent suggested list price of $241,000
- Seller wanted and got the agent to list for $255,000.
- 4 months later agent was able to get seller to reduce to $245,000
- Seller turns down offers of $225,000 and $219,000
- Seller finally accepts an offer of $219,000 and the buyer's financing falls through.
Related Florida real estate views:
Smart home sellers listen to what the market is telling them.
Home not selling? What does your agent say?
Price reductions - Price improvements - Price correctly
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
When is a real estate contract not a binding contract?
When it has a short sale contingency, if you ask the individual who taught a short sale class at the local board today.
Several of our agents came back to the office with information that went contrary to the training and instruction we have provided in office. It seems that today's instructor feels that a seller who needs bank approval for short sale should still sign multiple offers, which makes the offers a valid contract, with many different buyers and then send them to the bank for final approval. At no time does the instructor caution to accept any additional offers as back up contracts.
Bottom line is that a subject to short sale is a contingency just like buyer financing or inspections are a "subject to" contingency. To enter into more than one contract is a dangerous position to place a seller.
I called the instructor to see if he had any written documentation from FREC or an attorney that changes what we know to be true with regard to contract law, he did not. I hope by now he has a clearer view of what a short sale contingency is and is not.
Related Florida real estate views:
Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Several of our agents came back to the office with information that went contrary to the training and instruction we have provided in office. It seems that today's instructor feels that a seller who needs bank approval for short sale should still sign multiple offers, which makes the offers a valid contract, with many different buyers and then send them to the bank for final approval. At no time does the instructor caution to accept any additional offers as back up contracts.
Bottom line is that a subject to short sale is a contingency just like buyer financing or inspections are a "subject to" contingency. To enter into more than one contract is a dangerous position to place a seller.
I called the instructor to see if he had any written documentation from FREC or an attorney that changes what we know to be true with regard to contract law, he did not. I hope by now he has a clearer view of what a short sale contingency is and is not.
Related Florida real estate views:
Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 16, 2008
Advertise your home where it will do the most good
I have heard real estate agents described as having herd mentality. Following the crowd, doing what the next guy or girl does and rarely breaking from the pack.
This is can be a positive feature to have when viewed from an ethical, professional and legal prospective. However it may be a bad thing to a homeowner trying to sell their home.
The facts are that print ads are an ineffective way to advertise a home or property for sale when compared to other sources and yet you will see classified black and white ads, full page color ads and publications centered on homes for sale with agent after agent advertisement.
If few people are looking at these sources for information about homes for sale in any given area, why are real estate agents still spending so much of their time and money to be in these newspapers and publications?
It is simple, because the competition is there. As a matter of fact agents will say just that. We need to be in that publication because XYZ Realty is there and we would look bad if we were not.
Forgetting or not caring that little to no calls are ever generated from that advertisement method, agents would rather follow the pack out of some made up fear that not doing so will make them look bad in the eyes of the consumer.
Here is the big tip of the day. The consumer, especially the consumer asking you to sell their home cares about one thing and one thing only, getting their home sold. If you tell them you are wasting money and time advertising their home in a venue simply because the competition is there, at the very least, you might get a confused look from them.
A wise agent does not base their advertisement dollar on where the competition is but instead, does the research to find out where the consumer is. As a consumer you should ask any agent you are interviewing if they know how the majority of the buyer calls they and their office receives are generated. The agent who knows the answer and has a marketing plan centered around those areas may be your best choice.
Related Florida real estate views:
Does your agent have enough money to advertise your home?
Real estate agent costs rise as income dwindles
Are auctions selling homes?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
This is can be a positive feature to have when viewed from an ethical, professional and legal prospective. However it may be a bad thing to a homeowner trying to sell their home.
The facts are that print ads are an ineffective way to advertise a home or property for sale when compared to other sources and yet you will see classified black and white ads, full page color ads and publications centered on homes for sale with agent after agent advertisement.
If few people are looking at these sources for information about homes for sale in any given area, why are real estate agents still spending so much of their time and money to be in these newspapers and publications?
It is simple, because the competition is there. As a matter of fact agents will say just that. We need to be in that publication because XYZ Realty is there and we would look bad if we were not.
Forgetting or not caring that little to no calls are ever generated from that advertisement method, agents would rather follow the pack out of some made up fear that not doing so will make them look bad in the eyes of the consumer.
Here is the big tip of the day. The consumer, especially the consumer asking you to sell their home cares about one thing and one thing only, getting their home sold. If you tell them you are wasting money and time advertising their home in a venue simply because the competition is there, at the very least, you might get a confused look from them.
A wise agent does not base their advertisement dollar on where the competition is but instead, does the research to find out where the consumer is. As a consumer you should ask any agent you are interviewing if they know how the majority of the buyer calls they and their office receives are generated. The agent who knows the answer and has a marketing plan centered around those areas may be your best choice.
Related Florida real estate views:
Does your agent have enough money to advertise your home?
Real estate agent costs rise as income dwindles
Are auctions selling homes?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 15, 2008
Million dollar homes for sale in Kissimmee
As of today there are 23 homes for sale in Kissimmee listed at a million dollars or higher.
These homes are custom built and have features that include media centers, gourmet kitchen , beautiful pools, million dollar view, acreage, abundant square footage and in-law quarters.
Part of the advantages of owning a luxury home in Kissimmee in the closeness to all major Central Florida attractions and yet you can be nestled away from it all when a quiet evening or weekend is all you desire.
Related Florida real estate views:
Where do you have the largest selection of homes priced at $1 million dollars?
Florida luxury real estate
Trump sells Florida home for $95 million
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
These homes are custom built and have features that include media centers, gourmet kitchen , beautiful pools, million dollar view, acreage, abundant square footage and in-law quarters.
Part of the advantages of owning a luxury home in Kissimmee in the closeness to all major Central Florida attractions and yet you can be nestled away from it all when a quiet evening or weekend is all you desire.
Related Florida real estate views:
Where do you have the largest selection of homes priced at $1 million dollars?
Florida luxury real estate
Trump sells Florida home for $95 million
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 13, 2008
Short sale experts | Short sale specialist
The wave of short sale listings sweeping Central Florida is being quickly followed by an increase of real estate agents advertising themselves as short sale specialists or experts.
Short sales have not played a prominent part of the Central Florida real estate market in years past so it would seem logical that the short sale specialist and experts in today’s market have had to gain their experience and specialty over the last few months.
One would naturally think that these agents, who are short sale experts, have closed quite a few transactions, which has provided them the experience that would qualify them as an expert.
That is why this year’s sold reports from the MLS for the 5 counties of Lake, Orange, Osceola, West Volusia and Seminole are somewhat confusing. My reports indicate, that 95 homes described as being short sale or third party approval contingent homes have sold this year. This means 95 out of the 2,756 or only 3% sold were described as a short sale.
3%. Seems like a small number does it not?
While I am sure there are individual agents who have a clear understanding of the short sale process from start to end, it would seem prudent to make sure the real estate agent you ask to help you buy or sell a home in a short sale situation be an agent who is full time and part of a team large enough to offer mortgage, title and professional real estate help that has been developed from over 40 years of Florida real estate experience.
As a company we provide expert real estate services, even when it is a short sale.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
There comes a point when you have to foreclose.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Short sales have not played a prominent part of the Central Florida real estate market in years past so it would seem logical that the short sale specialist and experts in today’s market have had to gain their experience and specialty over the last few months.
One would naturally think that these agents, who are short sale experts, have closed quite a few transactions, which has provided them the experience that would qualify them as an expert.
That is why this year’s sold reports from the MLS for the 5 counties of Lake, Orange, Osceola, West Volusia and Seminole are somewhat confusing. My reports indicate, that 95 homes described as being short sale or third party approval contingent homes have sold this year. This means 95 out of the 2,756 or only 3% sold were described as a short sale.
3%. Seems like a small number does it not?
While I am sure there are individual agents who have a clear understanding of the short sale process from start to end, it would seem prudent to make sure the real estate agent you ask to help you buy or sell a home in a short sale situation be an agent who is full time and part of a team large enough to offer mortgage, title and professional real estate help that has been developed from over 40 years of Florida real estate experience.
As a company we provide expert real estate services, even when it is a short sale.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
There comes a point when you have to foreclose.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
88% of homeowners use a Realtor to sell their home according to NAR
Jessica Lautz a Senior Research Analyst noted in a commentary for NAR that in 2007 12% of home sellers did so without an agent. This is down from 18% in 1997.
Given the ongoing market conditions it would seem reasonable that more owners will use a Realtor to help them sell their home in the coming months.
Related Florida real estate views:
Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.
What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?
Florida home prices increase by 26%
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Given the ongoing market conditions it would seem reasonable that more owners will use a Realtor to help them sell their home in the coming months.
Related Florida real estate views:
Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.
What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?
Florida home prices increase by 26%
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 12, 2008
Making verbal offer and counter offers when buying a home.
An area Broker send me a letter regarding an offer their office wrote on a listing of ours.
Long story short, during the transaction verbal offers and verbal counters were made and discussed. While this was going on a written offer came in and the seller decided to accept it without countering.
In the letter this Broker sent to me, the Broker expressed their disappoinment and wanted me to know that a verbal offer/verbal counter are legally binding.
In a word, No. I would hate to imagine the problems that would cause were it true.
Be sure when buying or selling a home, you have your agent put everything of importance in writing, even if your broker or agent tells you different.
Related Florida real estate views:
Make sure you review an estimated proceeds document before signing an offer to buy your home
Do I still have to pay a commission if I list my home but then decide not to sell?
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Long story short, during the transaction verbal offers and verbal counters were made and discussed. While this was going on a written offer came in and the seller decided to accept it without countering.
In the letter this Broker sent to me, the Broker expressed their disappoinment and wanted me to know that a verbal offer/verbal counter are legally binding.
In a word, No. I would hate to imagine the problems that would cause were it true.
Be sure when buying or selling a home, you have your agent put everything of importance in writing, even if your broker or agent tells you different.
Related Florida real estate views:
Make sure you review an estimated proceeds document before signing an offer to buy your home
Do I still have to pay a commission if I list my home but then decide not to sell?
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Mar 9, 2008
Kissimmee real estate statistics for February
736 properties were listed for sale in February
188 homes went under contract in February
111 homes were sold in February
With 4641 homes showing as active in the MLS as of today, this would indicate that Kissimmee as over 41 months of inventory at the February rate of sales. 41 months or 3 years and 5 months worth of homes!
The good news is there was a 40% jump in sales from January to February in Kissimmee.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee housing statistics - 2007
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
Handyman special home for sale in Kissimmee
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
188 homes went under contract in February
111 homes were sold in February
With 4641 homes showing as active in the MLS as of today, this would indicate that Kissimmee as over 41 months of inventory at the February rate of sales. 41 months or 3 years and 5 months worth of homes!
The good news is there was a 40% jump in sales from January to February in Kissimmee.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee housing statistics - 2007
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
Handyman special home for sale in Kissimmee
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
144 homes for rent in Kissimmee
Qualified persons looking to rent a home in Kissimmee Florida have over 140 homes to choose from as reported in the Multiple Listing Service.
Monthly rents range from in the $700's to $4700.
Contact me to receive additional information.
Related Florida real estate views:
Property management is looking for Kissimmee home to rent.
Are you qualified to buy a home but would rather wait?
Available rentals in Orlando and Central Florida
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Monthly rents range from in the $700's to $4700.
Contact me to receive additional information.
Related Florida real estate views:
Property management is looking for Kissimmee home to rent.
Are you qualified to buy a home but would rather wait?
Available rentals in Orlando and Central Florida
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Bank starts foreclosure on wrong home.
wftv.com reports a bank started the foreclosure process on the wrong home in Kissimmee.
Florida foreclosure prevention counseling receives support
Governor Charlie Crist announced in a press statement this week that Florida has received nearly $1.3 million foreclosure prevention counseling efforts.
Governor Crist observed:
“We know that most homeowners never talk to their mortgage lender, even as they are facing foreclosure,” said Governor Crist. “By making more counseling and education about foreclosure alternatives available to homeowners, it is our hope that more homeowners will be able to avoid the financial devastation of foreclosure.”
Here is the complete press statement.
Related Florida real estate views:
Florida Senators vote in favor of foreclosure bill HR 3221
Florida Governor Crist addresses Florida foreclosures
Mr. Postman look and see if there is a letter from FHA for me.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Governor Crist observed:
“We know that most homeowners never talk to their mortgage lender, even as they are facing foreclosure,” said Governor Crist. “By making more counseling and education about foreclosure alternatives available to homeowners, it is our hope that more homeowners will be able to avoid the financial devastation of foreclosure.”
Here is the complete press statement.
Related Florida real estate views:
Florida Senators vote in favor of foreclosure bill HR 3221
Florida Governor Crist addresses Florida foreclosures
Mr. Postman look and see if there is a letter from FHA for me.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Fannie Mae increase conforming loan limits
In a recent press release, Brian Faith, Managing Director of Fannie Mae stated;
Fannie Mae will begin temporarily purchasing loans beyond the company's prevailing conventional loan limit in the designated areas.
Related Florida real estate views:
Builders say Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac have failed
Fannie Mae CEO offers suggestions to unleash housing demand.
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Fannie Mae will begin temporarily purchasing loans beyond the company's prevailing conventional loan limit in the designated areas.
Related Florida real estate views:
Builders say Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac have failed
Fannie Mae CEO offers suggestions to unleash housing demand.
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Mar 8, 2008
Real estate agent costs rise as income dwindles
Individual real estate agents and real estate companies are finding themselves caught between a rock and a hard place as they attempt to do their jobs in the current market.
With the average days a home is on the market increasing, agents are finding themselves spending more and more of their own money promoting and marketing these homes with no sale date in site. This problem is compounded by the rising foreclosure and short sales or when a home is incorrectly priced and the seller refuses to adjust or the agent fails to regularly update the seller of the changes in the market as it relates to the seller’s home.
The cost of materials and time to prepare multi-colored flyers and promotional pieces, the cost to send out marketing pieces through bulk and first class mail, the cost to maintain a staff of assistants and receptionists to handle incoming sales calls and inquiries, the cost of gas prices to drive potential customers to the property, the cost to maintain equipment to keep up with the increase of activity, the cost of for sale signs and sign riders, the cost of print advertisement to promote the agent or office listings and the cost of maintaining an internet presence to promote the listings continues on regardless of the dwindling sales.
These ongoing costs coupled with very little profit will continue to force agents and real estate companies out of business as time goes on. Those agents and companies that survive will do so by making the adjustments needed now and refining their business model to adapt to the current conditions.
Reducing business overhead that does not directly affect the customer, reducing or eliminating ineffective marketing and striving to continually educate the seller on proper pricing and price enhancements are the steps being taken now by those agents and companies who will remain strong regardless of the market.
Related Florida real estate views:
Does your agent have enough money to advertise your home?
Homebuyers and sellers in Florida may have fewer Realtors to choose from
Free report on why your home did not sell.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
With the average days a home is on the market increasing, agents are finding themselves spending more and more of their own money promoting and marketing these homes with no sale date in site. This problem is compounded by the rising foreclosure and short sales or when a home is incorrectly priced and the seller refuses to adjust or the agent fails to regularly update the seller of the changes in the market as it relates to the seller’s home.
The cost of materials and time to prepare multi-colored flyers and promotional pieces, the cost to send out marketing pieces through bulk and first class mail, the cost to maintain a staff of assistants and receptionists to handle incoming sales calls and inquiries, the cost of gas prices to drive potential customers to the property, the cost to maintain equipment to keep up with the increase of activity, the cost of for sale signs and sign riders, the cost of print advertisement to promote the agent or office listings and the cost of maintaining an internet presence to promote the listings continues on regardless of the dwindling sales.
These ongoing costs coupled with very little profit will continue to force agents and real estate companies out of business as time goes on. Those agents and companies that survive will do so by making the adjustments needed now and refining their business model to adapt to the current conditions.
Reducing business overhead that does not directly affect the customer, reducing or eliminating ineffective marketing and striving to continually educate the seller on proper pricing and price enhancements are the steps being taken now by those agents and companies who will remain strong regardless of the market.
Related Florida real estate views:
Does your agent have enough money to advertise your home?
Homebuyers and sellers in Florida may have fewer Realtors to choose from
Free report on why your home did not sell.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Builders say Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac have failed
In a press release dated March 6, 2008 the CEO of the National Association of Home Builders stated:
“At a time when the housing market needs them more than ever, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have failed to adequately respond to the mortgage crisis,” Jerry Howard, executive vice president and CEO of NAHB, told members of the Senate Banking Committee. “Rather than aggressively pursue market solutions, they are hunkering down to shore up financial results and shareholder returns – and are even taking steps that will further burden struggling mortgage borrowers.”
Read the entire press release.
Related Florida real estate views:
Fannie Mae increase conforming loan limits
Fannie Mae CEO offers suggestions to unleash housing demand.
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
“At a time when the housing market needs them more than ever, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have failed to adequately respond to the mortgage crisis,” Jerry Howard, executive vice president and CEO of NAHB, told members of the Senate Banking Committee. “Rather than aggressively pursue market solutions, they are hunkering down to shore up financial results and shareholder returns – and are even taking steps that will further burden struggling mortgage borrowers.”
Read the entire press release.
Related Florida real estate views:
Fannie Mae increase conforming loan limits
Fannie Mae CEO offers suggestions to unleash housing demand.
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
11,643 homes for sale in Orlando
I searched for homes for sale in Orlando as of this morning and found 11,643 homes listed in the MLS.
If you are buying a home in Orlando, we can help you search the thousands of homes for sale to find the perfect home for you.
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Buy a home that offers fishing and boating
Buy a handyman special
Orlando home sellers: giving in, selling or losing their home?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
If you are buying a home in Orlando, we can help you search the thousands of homes for sale to find the perfect home for you.
Related Florida real estate views:
Buy a home that offers fishing and boating
Buy a handyman special
Orlando home sellers: giving in, selling or losing their home?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Mar 6, 2008
Real estate sales success school starts again
New, inexperienced and/or agents who are in a rut and want a boost can now attend the 2nd success school for real estate agents held by Watson Realty in 2008.
Objectives of the real estate sales school include:
Objectives of the real estate sales school include:
- Lead Generation: Where does business come from?
- How To Develop A Business Plan
- Goal Setting
- Developing Listing Skills
- Seller Qualification Skills
- Developing a Marketing Plan
- Conducting Successful Open Houses
- Developing Effective Prospecting Methods
- Listing Presentations
- Telephone Techniques
- Buyer Pre-qualification
- Working With Buyers
- New Construction
- Purchase and Sale Agreement
- Net Sheets
- Contract to Closing
- Presenting The Offer
- Handling Objections
To start a real estate career without adequate training and instruction is a recipe for failure. Give me a call if you would like to get your real estate sales career going in the right direction.
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Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida
You don't know what you don't know about selling real estate!
Positioning ourselves for real estate success in the years ahead
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Judge rules in favor of downpayment assistance
Ameridream is able to get HUD regulation invalidated.
Short sales can be confusing even to agents
Your buyer finds a home they are interested in and it is listed as being contingent upon 3rd party approval of the contract or contingent upon the lender accepting a short sale. The buyer submits an offer and the seller accepts the buyers offer. The executed contract is sent to the lender for approval. The lender after many days or weeks informs the seller or the agent assisting the seller that the agreed upon amount is not sufficient.
Your buyer is not interested in pursuing this home any further and asks for an immediate release of their escrow deposit. Here is where it gets confusing for some agents. In order for the buyer to receive their escrow deposit back they must get the owner of the home to sign a cancellation of contract and release of escrow form which the buyer will also sign.
Without the mutually signed agreement most Brokers will not release the escrow deposit to either party.
Just remember, if a buyer and seller have both agreed on terms in writing, this is a binding contract. Most contracts have some type of contingency but it is still a contract nonetheless.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Your buyer is not interested in pursuing this home any further and asks for an immediate release of their escrow deposit. Here is where it gets confusing for some agents. In order for the buyer to receive their escrow deposit back they must get the owner of the home to sign a cancellation of contract and release of escrow form which the buyer will also sign.
Without the mutually signed agreement most Brokers will not release the escrow deposit to either party.
Just remember, if a buyer and seller have both agreed on terms in writing, this is a binding contract. Most contracts have some type of contingency but it is still a contract nonetheless.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Property management is looking for Kissimmee home to rent.
We have a very motivated tenant in need of a 2 bedroom 2 bath with a pool in the Kissimmee area. If you know of an owner who is motivated to rent, send me an email or give me a call.
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The condition of the rental property is important.
144 homes for rent in Kissimmee
Are you qualified to buy a home but would rather wait?
Related Florida real estate views:
The condition of the rental property is important.
144 homes for rent in Kissimmee
Are you qualified to buy a home but would rather wait?
FHA loan limits
Good news, as of yesterday, FHA loan limits have increased dramatically for most of the areas that Watson Realty services. Orange, Osceola Seminole and Lake are at $353,750
Mar 5, 2008
Florida real estate post licensing class
Do you need to take you 45-hour Florida post licensing before March 31?
Watson Realty has a 45-hour class starting in the Clermont Watson office on Monday, March 10th at 9 A.M.
The cost of the real estate class is $125., which includes the textbook.
Class schedule:
Monday March10,
Wednesday March 12
Thursday March 13
Friday March14
Monday March17
All day classes are from 9AM-6PM
Watson Realty has a 45-hour class starting in the Clermont Watson office on Monday, March 10th at 9 A.M.
The cost of the real estate class is $125., which includes the textbook.
Class schedule:
Monday March10,
Wednesday March 12
Thursday March 13
Friday March14
Monday March17
All day classes are from 9AM-6PM
Mar 2, 2008
When buying a home with personal property, be specific.
You will find property for sale where the owner has indicated that the asking price includes personal belongings. In vacation and tourist areas of Central Florida this is often a strong selling point.
These personal items go beyond the normal appliances we often see left in the home as part of the purchase price. Many times a home can be purchased with items that include:
These personal items go beyond the normal appliances we often see left in the home as part of the purchase price. Many times a home can be purchased with items that include:
- furniture
- appliances
- dishes
- wall hangings
- pictures
- patio furniture
- lawn equipment
These types of furnished homes provide a great opportunity for those buyers looking to have a second home for their personal, limited or vacation use when in Florida.
It is extremely important for the buyer of this type of home to be very specific when writing their offer so as to include all the personal items. You should not rely on the MLS description or any verbal explanation of which items are staying.
A wise buyer and their agent should ask for a written inventory list prior or immediately after writing an offer for the buyer to review and approve. If the inventory list cannot be completed during the offering stage, then the contract should contain a contingency clause that allows the buyer to perform this inventory to their satisfaction immediately following the execution of the contract.
Having a written agreed upon inventory list between buyer and seller is a protection to both sides of the real estate transaction.
Related Florida real estate views:
Holiday homes for sale in Florida
Orlando international visitors
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Mar 1, 2008
Real estate agents show support for VA housing program
The National Association of Realtors® testified today in Congress that the Veterans Home Loan Guaranty Program should continue to be a valuable asset in helping the nation’s veterans achieve the dream of homeownership....
Here is the complete press release.
Related Florida real estate views:
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
Realtors should not write home loans
Fannie Mae increase conforming loan limits
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Here is the complete press release.
Related Florida real estate views:
Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages
Realtors should not write home loans
Fannie Mae increase conforming loan limits
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
What should you know when buying land?
Home inspections are the norm in today’s real estate market. A purchaser looking to buy a house understands the importance of hiring a professional inspector or inspectors to check the home out from top to bottom including but not limited to the electrical, heating and air, roof, plumbing and structural components of a home.
What about purchasing a piece of land or vacant ground? What a buyer may need to inspect or perform due diligence is not as clear as when buying a home. Buyers need to avoid making the mistake of relying on verbal opinions from the seller and/or agent. It is important to have an inspection contingency as part of an offer to buy land.
Items a buyer should be concerned with include:
What about purchasing a piece of land or vacant ground? What a buyer may need to inspect or perform due diligence is not as clear as when buying a home. Buyers need to avoid making the mistake of relying on verbal opinions from the seller and/or agent. It is important to have an inspection contingency as part of an offer to buy land.
Items a buyer should be concerned with include:
- Are there any pending legal actions against the property?
- Are there any violations of zoning or covenant restrictions?
- Has there been eminent domain proceedings started against the land?
- Are there restrictions that prevent the property from being resold or leased?
- Are there encroachments or easements that affect the property?
- Is the property low? Contain wetlands?
- Are there any environmental issues? Underground tanks? Contaminated soil? Abandoned wells?
- Is the property in a flood zone?Are their utilities on or near the site? Will you need a septic system?
These are a sample of the questions a buyer should find the answers as part of their buying process. Having a professional real estate agent who is experienced in land sales can save a buyer time and money lost from a costly mistake.
Related Florida real estate views:
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Watson Realty’s Kissimmee office leads the way in 2008
The Kissimmee branch office of Watson Realty Corp. has closed more transactions and volume thus far through 2008 than any of the other 14 Central Florida Watson Realty branch offices.
With an average sales price of $272,209, the Kissimmee office is once again poised to sell more real estate in 2008 than any Watson Realty Central Florida branch office.
In addition to Kissimmee, Watson Realty’s Kissimmee office provides professional real estate service to Orlando, Poinciana, Celebration, Saint Cloud, Windermere and Davenport.
Related Florida real estate views:
Watson Realty in Kissimmee makes a commitment to out sell the competition
Kissimmee real estate school starting in August
Kissimmee real estate agents for Watson Realty lead Central Florida
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
With an average sales price of $272,209, the Kissimmee office is once again poised to sell more real estate in 2008 than any Watson Realty Central Florida branch office.
In addition to Kissimmee, Watson Realty’s Kissimmee office provides professional real estate service to Orlando, Poinciana, Celebration, Saint Cloud, Windermere and Davenport.
Related Florida real estate views:
Watson Realty in Kissimmee makes a commitment to out sell the competition
Kissimmee real estate school starting in August
Kissimmee real estate agents for Watson Realty lead Central Florida
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
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