When is the Orlando home show?

The Orlando home show will be held on September 19-21, 2008 at the Orange County Convention Center.

Show hours of the Orlando home show are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, and are $9 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under. Seniors (60 and over) are $5 on Friday only.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Wind speed of hurricanes

• Tropical Storm - wind speed - 39 – 73 mph
• Hurricane 1 - wind speed - 74 – 95 mph
• Hurricane 2 - wind speed - 96 – 110 mph
• Hurricane 3 - wind speed - 111 – 130 mph
• Hurricane 4 - wind speed - 131 – 155 mph
• Hurricane 5 - wind speed - 156 + mph

Be careful and take precautions during this hurricane season. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30th.

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Hurricane Gustav rain bands appear in Central Florida

Homes for sale with hurricane shutters

If a hurricane results in flooding, is your home protected?

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Florida amendment 5

The Orange County Property Appraiser has a page where you can read about the amendment and calculate your potential tax savings should the amendment pass.

Details of the amendment include:

• Eliminate by 2011 a portion of the public school funding
• Replaces the 10% annual assessment with a 5% "cap for non-homestead properties
• Orange County tax bills could be reduce 25-29%

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Blog opinions on Florida Amendment 5

Orlando and Florida property tax amendment passes

Florida Property Tax Amendment

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp - 407-304-0255

St Cloud High School 2008 football schedule

• Friday - Sep 12 @ Liberty High School - 7:30PM
• Friday - Sep 19 Sunlake High School - 7:30PM
• Friday - Sep 26 Bishop Moore High School - 7:30PM
• Friday - Oct 03 Open Date TBA
• Friday - Oct 10 @ Tavares - 7:30PM
• Friday - Oct 17 @ Gateway High School - 7:30PM
• Friday - Oct 24 Eustis - 7:30PM
• Friday - Oct 31 Celebration - 7:30PM
• Friday - Nov 07 @ Harmony - 7:30PM

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Osceola Florida #8 in housing

Land for sale in St Cloud Florida

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

New Smyrna Beach ocean view condo for sale

• $1,025,000.00
• 3 bedrooms
• 3 baths
• 2200 sq. ft. condo
• New Smyrna Beach

“Listing information courtesy of Watson Realty Corp. All listing information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified through personal inspection by appropriate professionals. Listings displayed on this website may be subject to prior sale or removal from sale; availability of any listing should always be independently verified.”

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Deland is only minutes from Daytona Beach

Condo for sale Florida ocean view

Condominium addendum and condo documents

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

The MLS requires the signature of the home seller

In order for the listing agent to make changes in the MLS information concerning a home they have listed for sale, the seller must authorize these changes in writing. Changes that would apply include:

• Status change
• Change in price
• Extension of any time frames

The failure of the listing agent to obtain changes to the above or any changes in terms could result in a fine of $500.00. The MLS will accept faxed authorization or an email authorization with an electronic signature from the owner.

Make sure as a seller you authorize any changes in writing for yours and your agents protection.

You can contact me to learn more about listing your home in the MLS.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Hurricane Gustav rain bands appear in Central Florida

Central Florida is feeling the effects of Hurricane Gustav with rain bands as seen in the picture.

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Homes for sale with hurricane shutters

If a hurricane results in flooding, is your home protected?

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Osceola High School 2008-09 football schedule

• Fri - 08/29/08 - A - Palm Bay H. S. - 7:30PM
• Fri - 09/05/08 - A - St. Cloud High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 09/12/08 - A - East Ridge - 7:30PM
• Fri - 09/19/08 - H - Harmony High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 09/26/08 - H - Sarasota High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 10/03/08 - H - Poinciana High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 10/10/08 - A - George W. Jenkins H S - 7:30PM
• Fri - 10/17/08 - H - New Smyrna Beach Sr High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 10/24/08 - A - Lake Gibson High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 11/07/08 - H - Lakeland High School - 7:30PM
• Fri - 11/14/08 - A - Oviedo High School - 7:30PM

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Land for sale in St Cloud Florida

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Alaqua real estate

The following is a real estate market report for residential neighborhood of Alaqua in Longwood Florida. The information is as provided from the MLS on August 30, 2008.

• Average list price - $1,417,197.00
• Average sales price - $1,126,503.00
• Average days on the market - 135

To receive a detailed report regarding the Alaqua real estate market call or email.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Skiing allowed! Orlando homes for sale.

There are currently over 150 homes for sale in Orlando that are on a lake or a canal that leads to a lake suitable for water skiing.

These homes range in price from just under $200K to over $13 million.

The water skiing lakes include; Lake Sheen, Buck Lake, Little Sand Lake and Lake Pocket.

For a complete list of homes available in your price range on Orlando water skiing lakes, send me an email or give me a call.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

HUD/FHA deed in lieu eligibility

HUD has a revised deed in lieu of foreclosure option available for qualified home owners to review.

Deed in lieu of foreclosure may be an option for qualified home owners to use in order to avoid foreclosure. Eligibility requirements according to HUD's website include:

• The mortgagor must provide documentation of a reduction in income or an increase
  in living expense, and documentation, which verifies the borrowers need to vacate
  the property.

Please consult with your mortgage company or attorney if you have questions regarding the deed in lieu process.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Floyd Wickman offers his insight on the real estate market

This past Tuesday, Watson Realty agents and managers had an opportunity to enjoy a presentation put on by Floyd Wickman. Floyd's appearance in Central Florida exclusively for Watson Realty was made possible by ProspectsPlus.

His back to the basics presentation was entertaining and educational. For those who were hoping for a magical solution to increasing their sales production it was not there. Floyd Wickman's presentation dealt with what has always worked regardless of the market conditions. The basics of real estate sales.

This type of training that Watson Realty provides it's agents should give confidence to Florida home buyers and sellers that they are getting the very best real estate service available, regardless of the market.

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I am not going to give my home away!


- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Kissimmee foreclosure market is heating up

The Kissimmee foreclosure market is heating up. Buyers have an opportunity to find real values when viewing foreclosure homes for sale in Kissimmee.

• Currently there are over 400 bank owned or foreclosed homes listed for sale in Kissimmee.
• Over 100 Kissimmee homes are listed subject to a short sale contingency.
• Nearly 200 available homes are listed as in foreclosure.
• Pre foreclosure homes listed for sale exceed 700.

If you are serious about buying bank owned/foreclosures in Kissimmee, contact me to view the available inventory.

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Foreclosures for sale: Million dollar houses

What Central Florida city has the most foreclosed homes for sale?

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Florida luxury home sales market report

Central Florida luxury homes sales as reported in the Mid-Florida MLS through August of 2008 are at 2004 levels. MLS statistics indicate the 680 luxury homes, homes listed and sold for 1 million or higher, have sold thus far in 2008.

This is in comparison to 2004 where 728 luxury homes had sold during the same time period. Luxury home sales for this period during previous years are:

• 2008 - 680 sales
• 2007 - 958 sales
• 2006 - 1030 sales
• 2005 - 1199 sales
• 2004 - 725 sales
• 2003 - 442 sales

Mid Florida counties that have had a large share of the million dollar sales reported this year include:

1. Sarasota County 239
2. Orange County 133
3. Hillsborough County 101
4. Manatee County 101

Contact me for a free list of available luxury homes in Central Florida.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

President Bush comments on the housing market

President Bush briefly discussed his view of the housing market's condition in his weekly radio address.

"Yet there have been some recent signs that our economy is beginning to improve. While the housing market is continuing to experience difficulty, the decline in home sales has leveled off recently, and sales are rising in some parts of the country."

Here in Florida we certainly hope that those who want or need to sell or buy a home will be able to do so in the months to come with less difficulty and stress.

We hope the $7500 tax credit will be of value to first time home buyers and that the new government mortgage assistance for home owners affected by the mortgage mess will allow those home owners to stay in their homes. Eliminating the over supply of inventory by assisting people with staying in their homes will also work towards helping those who need to put their home on the market.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Housing civil rights complaints decline

The following information is from a special report released in August 2008 from the Bureau of Justice Statistics covering the civil rights complaints in U.S. District Courts, 1990-2006.

"Housing and accommodation civil rights claims represented 2% of all civil rights filings in 2006. These cases followed the same general trend as employment discrimination cases. There were 341 housing and accommodations related filings in 1990, a high of 1,315 filings in 2003, and a decline to 643 filings in 2006."


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Owner will assist with closing cost

Most home buyers expect to pay a down payment in order to purchase the home and obtain a mortgage. Along with a down payment, financing a home also requires the buyer to pay closing costs in order to obtain the loan.

The good news for home buyers is that sellers will often contribute towards paying a buyers closing costs. Lenders will often allow a seller to contribute 3-6% towards the buyers closing costs.

When you make an offer on a home and you desire the seller to help with your closing cost, make sure you ask for the seller's contribution in detail on the purchase contract.

To find out how you can get the seller to help you with your costs, contact me for a free consultation.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Who is viewing Florida real estate?

The following are the top 10 cities where visitors of this Florida real estate blog are reported to live according to Google Analytics for the month of August.

1. Orlando
2. Deland
3. Kissimmee
4. Winter Park
5. Port Orange
6. Jacksonville
7. St Petersburg
8. Ormond Beach
9. Miami
10. Tampa

Here are the top 10 countries where visitors of the blog are from:

1. United States
2. United Kingdom
3. Canada
4. Australia
5. Germany
6. Puerto Rico
7. Netherlands
8. France
9. Belgium
10. Switzerland

The reach that the internet offers to the real estate customer and real estate agents is amazing.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Deland home features

What features would you expect to find in a very nice Deland home for sale? There are numerous features you can expect to find in a quality home. This White/Von Randesky listing offers features that include:

• Stainless steel appliances
• Oak Cabinets
• Corian Countertops

All great features that add to the value of this 4 bedroom home.

To schedule a private viewing of this home or to receive a list of similar style homes in Deland, give me a call.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

University of Florida reports housing prices hit bottom in July

Chris McCarty, director of UF’s Survey Research Center at the Bureau of Economic and Business Research is quoted in a recent University of Florida new report regarding Florida's housing market; "There are signs that housing prices are beginning to stabilize in the Sunshine State."

“While prices in Florida markets are still declining, the pace of the declines has slowed,” he said. “Overall, the median price of a home in Florida, excluding condos, is beginning to flatten.”

McCarty said he believes retrospective data will show that home prices bottomed out in July for most Florida markets and that stabilization of housing prices will ultimately lead to stability in financial markets.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Real estate brokers can't be trusted

A survey released by the Better Business Bureau on August 25th report that real estate agents/brokers are not considered to be very trustworthy by the respondents of the survey. The trust factor for real estate brokers has actually dropped according to the survey from results gathered from a similar survey in September. Real estate brokers were rated as the 2nd least trusted group behind car dealers.

Does that mean all real estate agents can't be trusted? Of course not. Call me to be introduced to an agent you can trust.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Free admission to Florida State Parks

In an organized effort to promote literacy admission to the State Parks in Florida will be free during the week of September 7-13 for visitors who bring a library card, library book, or who donate a new or gently used family book.

Florida’s state parks, ... will host a variety of events during September including book readings, author appearances and book exchanges.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Florida Fire Marshall Association want new homes to have sprinkler systems

The Florida Fire Marshall Association is seeking to have residential codes change to require new homes to have automatic sprinklers.

Citing that 66% of fire deaths occurred in 1 and 2 family structures, the Association maintains that smoke alarms are simply not enough.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Deland is only minutes from Daytona Beach

One of the advantages of living and owning a home in Deland is that you are approximately 30 minutes from Daytona Beach. Whenever you desire you can enjoy all that the world's most famous beach has to offer without having to spend most of the day in your car.

The home I am featuring in this blog offers that advantage and many more. Additional benefits of this home besides being so close to the ocean are:

• 100 X 135 lot
• stainless steel appliances
• beautiful oak trees
• brick fireplace

This 3/2 Earl Morgan listing is being offered for under $200,000. You can enjoy a virtual tour of the home by clicking on the picture or call me to arrange a private showing.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Pine Ridge High School 2008 football schedule

• Aug. 29 Fall Kick Off Classic (Eau Gallie) H 7 p.m.
• Sept. 5 New Smyrna H 7 p.m.
• Sept. 12 Atlantic A 7 p.m.
• Sept. 19 Flagler H 7 p.m.
• Sept. 26 Mainland H 7 p.m.
• Oct. 3 Trinity (Homecoming) H 7 p.m.
• Oct. 17 DeLand H 7 p.m.
• Oct. 24 Lyman H 7 p.m.
• Oct. 31 Lake Howell A 7:30 p.m.
• Nov. 7 Hagerty (Senior Night) H 7 p.m.
• Nov. 14 Deltona A 7 p.m.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Deltona High School 2008 football schedule

• Sep. 04 Port Orange Atlantic A 7:00P
• Sep. 19 Kissimmee Liberty H 7:00P
• Sep. 26 Jacksonville Sandalwood A 7:00P
• Oct. 03 Kissimmee Gateway H 7:00P
• Oct. 10 DeLand A 7:00P
• Oct. 17 Martin County High School A TBD
• Oct. 24 Flagler Palm Coast A 7:00P
• Oct. 31 Port Orange Spruce Creek H 7:00P
• Nov. 07 Jacksonville Mandarin H 7:00P
• Nov. 14 Deltona Pine Ridge H 7:00P
  

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Deland High School 2008 football schedule

• 08/29/2008 A Fall Kickoff Classic - Leesburg High School
• 09/05/2008 A Mainland High School(Daytona Beach) 7PM
• 09/12/2008 H Seminole High School(Sanford) 7PM
• 09/26/2008 A Spruce Creek High School(Port Orange) 7PM
• 10/03/2007 H Seabreeze High School(Daytona Beach) 7PM
• 10/10/2008 H Deltona High School(Deltona) 7PM
• 10/17/2008 A Pine Ridge High School(Deltona) 7PM
• 10/24/2008 A Sandalwood High School(Jacksonville) 7PM
• 10/31/2008 H Mandarin High School(Jacksonville) 7PM
• 11/07/2008 H Flagler Palm Coast High School(Bunnell) 7PM
• 11/14/2008 A New Smyrna Beach High School 7PM

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

FDIC warns against mortgage fraud

FDIC, in their Summer 2008 newsletter, warns consumers to avoid those persons who are thieves who pretend to be mortgage lenders or loan counselors.

In order to prevent yourself from being a victim of a mortgage fraud and these types of scams, the FDIC encourages you to; "Beware of anyone who charges a large upfront fee and "guarantees" (falsely) to save your home from foreclosure."

The news report offers numbers you can call to locate certified HUD counselors.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Free foreclosure listings in Orlando

Don't spend a dime for foreclosure listings in the Central Florida and Orlando area. We can provide our customers with a free list of bank owned/foreclosure listings for sale.

The available foreclosure listing inventory is expected to increase in the months ahead. Currently the MLS shows 418 homes for sale in Orlando that are bank owned. Foreclosure property will often receive multiple offers as the banks list them at reasonable prices.

To receive your free list of Orlando foreclosure property, call or email me today.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Do I pay my REALTOR or does the seller pay the REALTOR?

This was a question that someone searched in Google which ultimately brought them to the Florida real estate view blog.

Were I able to speak directly to this individual my answer would be that in most situations in Central Florida, the buyer is not charged a fee by the REALTOR. While there are situations where a buyer could choose to pay a REALTOR to work exclusively for them in finding and negotiating for a home, the REALTOR(s) involved in most Central Florida transactions are commonly paid from the seller's proceeds from the sale as agreed upon in the listing contract the seller and listing agent have negotiated.

If you would like to discuss the cost and fees of using a real estate agent, give me a call.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

What does a home warranty cover?

An American Home Shield home warranty covers:

• Heating
• A/C
• Ductwork
• Plumbing
• Whirlpool motor and pump
• Plumbing Stoppages
• Water heaters
• Electrical
• Exhaust vent/attic fans
• Built in microwaves
• Dishwashers
• Garbage disposals
• Range/ovens/cooktops
• Trash compactors

For specific details and costs involved with the warranty plan and servicing fee, contact us for a free brochure. If you are buying or selling your home, you should include a home warranty as part of the package.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Kissimmee foreclosure

For those interested in purchasing a bank owned home, REO or foreclosure in Kissimmee here are the latest numbers of property available for sale in the Kissimmee MLS.

• 388 foreclosure/bank owned homes listed for sale
• Price ranges are from $54,900 to $359,900
• 182 are 3 bedroom and 2 bath homes
• 343 bank owned.foreclosure homes have sold in the Kissimmee area thus far in 2008

Foreclosure property in Kissimmee offer an excellent opportunity to buy a home a good price. Call or email me for a free list of foreclosure property in Kissimmee.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Wedgefield golf community in Orlando

Home prices in the Wedgefield golf community subdivision start at $174,900 and top out at $879,000 for the 26 homes available at this posting.

There have been 10 homes that have sold this year. Sold prices ranged from $125,000 - $392,000.

Call us to find out the value of your home in the Wedgefield community or to view homes for sale there.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Eastwood golf course neighborhood in Orlando

The Eastwood golf course and golf community is located on the east side of Orlando. As of today there are 29 homes for sale in the Eastwood subdivision. Asking prices for these homes are between $169,000 - 550,000. In 2007, 43 homes sold in Eastwood as compared to 28 thus far in 2008.

If you would like us to continue to update you on the Eastwood real estate market, call or email us and we will provide you with regular updates.


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Stoneybrook golf community in Orlando

Orlando Florida. What is being searched? Who is doing the searching?

Do you need a volunteer? Ask a home owner.


- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Stoneybrook golf community in Orlando

Stoneybrook is a sought after golf community in Orlando. The following report outlines the current real estate activity in Stoneybrook.

• 58 homes are on the market priced between $205,000 up to 4719,500
• 25 homes have sold in Stoneybrook thus far this year as compared to 43 that sold during the same time last year. Sold prices this year ranged from $212,000 to $630,000.

If you would like to know the market value of your home or if you are interested in viewing homes for sale in the Stoneybrook area, contact us today.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

The house cat only rings twice

The next time you hear the door bell it might be someone who wants to sell you a magazine or it could be fluffy or spot.

Hammacher Schlemmer & Company Inc. are offering The Pet Sensing Doorbell as seen in their photo above. With your pet wearing a special smart key, this doorbell will chime when your pet approaches a distance of 3"-6" alerting you to their need to go out or desire to come back in. The doorbell operates on batteries.

The unit can be adjusted to be as loud as a motorcycle or turned off.


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Cleaning up after Tropical Storm Fay. Water damage and mold prevention

The water damage and mold issues caused by Tropical Storm Fay are widespread throughout Central Florida.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers tips on their website for the best way to deal with water damage and mold prevention. The EPA cautions that you may need to hire the services of professionals to clean and dry your affected areas.

The tips for dealing with water damage and mold prevention include:

Books and papers

• For non-valuable items, discard books and papers.
• Photocopy valuable/important items, discard originals.
• Freeze (in frost-free freezer or meat locker) or freeze-dry.

Carpet and backing - dry within 24-48 hours

• Remove water with water extraction vacuum.
• Reduce ambient humidity levels with dehumidifier.
• Accelerate drying process with fans.

Wallboard(Drywall and gypsum board)

• May be dried in place if there is no obvious swelling and the seams are intact. If not, remove, discard, and replace.
• Ventilate the wall cavity, if possible.

The EPA also suggests throwing away and replacing water damaged ceiling tiles and insulation.

Should you discover mold visit this EPA web page dedicated to the steps you should take.

For potential home buyers in Central Florida, you will want to be sure and include the mold inspection addendum made available by the Florida Association of Realtors. This addendum will allow the time needed after receiving an accepted offer on a home to have a professional mold inspection completed. Should the inspection reveal a significant presence of mold, you are not obligated to purchase the home unless the seller agrees to remedy the situation to your satisfaction.

Please seek the advise of a professional mold inspector and remediation professional should you have questions or concerns regarding water damage and mold prevention.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Orlando housing and market conditions

The Orlando Realtor Association released Orlando housing statistics for July. In keeping with the ongoing theme of positive attitude attracts positive results, the organization predicted pending sales as being a sign of upcoming improvement of market conditions.

The numbers reported indicated:

• July sales fell below Junes by 3.56%
• Sales are down this year by 24.52% from 2007
• Orlando median sales price for July $207,500.
• Homes spend an average of 117 days on the market

The Association predicted that the increase in new or pending business over the past 3 months as compared to the same time last year is a sign that the market is improving. Unfortunately this new business may consist of short sale transactions that have a harder time making it successfully to the closing table.

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Appraisals + short sales = no sale

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

What do consumers want to know prior to relocating?

According to a recent study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates, customers who are being transferred or making a corporate relocation move are most interested in gaining information on the following 5 items:

• Housing/market conditions
• Relative cost of living
• Crime statistics
• School systems
• Hospitals/health care

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Buying a home subject to financing

Most home buyers need to obtain financing in order to buy their home. When making an offer to purchase a home, the Florida Association of Realtors (FAR) Sale and Purchase Contract has a clause that covers this contingency for the buyer and sellers protection.

This clause allows the buyer to select that they will be applying for new financing. The choices of financing offered are; conventional, FHA and VA financing. The percent of the purchase price that the buyer will be financing is also listed on the contract.

When entering into a contract with the seller, the buyer is usually agreeing to apply for financing shortly after receiving an accepted offer. This application process should be done as soon as possible following the acceptance of their offer. The FAR contract allows for 5 days should the buyer not select a different time period.

Unless changed by the buyer or seller, the FAR contract then allows the buyer 30 days after the effective date or 5 days prior to closing, whichever occurs first, to obtain a written financial commitment or approval letter. If the buyer is unable to obtain written commitment, then the buyer should let the seller know in writing during this same period.

The buyer’s financing contingency requires the buyer to keep the parties involved in the transaction, real estate brokers and sellers, updated about the application process and any issues that may arise as they work towards receiving their financial commitment. If the buyer has used diligence and is unable to receive a commitment letter in the allowable time period, then the buyer can notify the seller in writing and the contract may be cancelled with the buyer receiving any deposits back that they have made once both parties have agreed to cancel the contract.

Purchase contracts are legally binding documents and should never be entered into lightly. The financing contingency portion of the contract is one of many legally binding contingencies. We have the experience and knowledge to successfully write offers for you as a buyer but would always encourage you to seek legal advice from and attorney if you are not totally comfortable.


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Get a survey when buying a home or property

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Realtor and seller obligations under a listing agreement.


- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Where can you find a home with an in ground, heated, screened pool?

Florida is known for it’s houses having a cool relaxing blue pool for the home owner to enjoy on those hot summer days and nights. From my experience when questioning buyers about the desired features of a home they are looking to buy, after bedroom, baths and garage criteria, a majority of potential buyers say they would like to buy a pool home.

So where do you have the largest selection of in ground, screened and heated pool homes for sale in Central Florida? Here are the top 10 cities in Central Florida according to MLS statistics for today.

1. Orlando 2195
2. Kissimmee 1123
3. Windermere 441
4. Clermont 374
5. Longwood 300
6. Winter Park 258
7. Deltona 220
8. Lake Mary 210
9. Apopka 199
10. Saint Cloud 182

As this inventory will change daily, please contact me if you would like an updated top 10 list. Of course if you would like to view a pool home anywhere in Central Florida and would like to receive a list of pool homes in your price range, I will happily provide this for you.

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What to look for when buying a pet friendly home in Orlando

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Orlando Florida. What is being searched? Who is doing the searching?

Who is searching for information about Orlando Florida and what are online searchers looking for? The following are results provided by Google Insights for Search BETA for the search term Orlando Florida over the last 90 days in all categories across the United States.

Top 10 States searching for Orlando Florida information

1. Florida
2. Georgia
3. Alabama
4. New Jersey
5. South Carolina
6. Tennessee
7. Ohio
8. Louisiana
9. Missouri
10. Kentucky

Top 10 search terms related to Orlando Florida

1. orlando fl
2. disney orlando florida
3. orlando florida county
4. universal orlando
5. orlando hotels
6. hotels orlando florida
7. orlando jobs
8. orlando florida weather
9. orange county florida
10. disney world florida

Searches on the rise

• orlando news
• orlando florida news
• orlando jobs
• jobs in orlando
• florida mall
• florida hospital orlando
• aquatica
• valencia community college
• orlando sentinal

This Google provided tool could be huge in helping Orlando area real estate and non real estate businesses target the specific areas and keywords that could attract visitors and customers.

Related Florida real estate views:

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Appraisals + short sales = no sale

On at least 2 different occasion this month a short sale transaction closing has been delayed because of a low appraisal.

You can imagine the frustration of everyone involved. The listing agent and the seller were successful in getting the seller’s lender to accept a reduced payoff of the seller’s mortgage. The buyer and their agent were excited to know that the short sale contingency had been met and the seller would be able to close.

All for naught however as the buyer’s appraisal of the property, required by the buyer’s lender, came in lower than the agreed upon short sale price!

Appraisers no doubt are being very careful as home values are bound to be affected by the numerous foreclosed properties hitting the market.


Related Florida real estate views:

How can I make sure I am not paying too much for a home?

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Orlando real estate - Selling your home tip #1.


- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Osceola Florida #8 in housing

The U.S. Census Bureau released a news report which updated housing estimates for states and counties.

The report for the fastest growing counties in the country from July 1, 2006- July 1, 2008 indicated that Osceola County is the 8th fastest growing county in housing units.

The Census Bureau describes a housing unit as;

" A housing unit is a house, an apartment, a mobile home or trailer, a group of rooms, or a single room that is occupied, or, if vacant, is intended for occupancy as separate living quarters. Separate living quarters are those in which the occupants live separately from any other persons in the building and which have direct access from the outside of the building or through a common hall."

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Sanford Florida in Seminole County is a good place to live

According to the quarterly newsletter, The Sanford Citizen, 95% of Sanford residents who responded to a recent survey feel that Sanford is a good place to live.

Results of those who rated city services as good or excellent include:

• City employees 75%
• Fire service 82%
• Emergency medical service 75%
• Police 60%

Additionally the survey shows that 71% of the residents were concerned with the appearance of the city and believe more code enforcement is in order.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Solivita developer Avatar expects no immediate improvement for the market

Avatar Holdings Inc. second quarter results reported a net loss according to Corporate News release on Aug 11, 2008.

The news release stated in part, "Our sales results continue to reflect the weak market for new single-family and multi-family residences in our markets. We continue to experience a high level of cancellations of sales contracts for homes. We do not anticipate a meaningful improvement in our markets in the near term."

Avatar is a new home builder and developer in the Poinciana Florida area which includes Solivita.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Get a survey when buying a home or property

When purchasing real estate you should strongly consider obtaining a survey of the property. Often when you are financing the purchase of a home, the lender will require that a survey be completed. A survey will show you the size of the property and it can also assist you with:

• Determining if any walls, fences, driveways etc. are shared with neighboring home owners.
• Finding out if there are encroachments or easements that affect the property.
• Show if the property is in a designated flood zone.

Purchasing and reviewing a survey prior to closing is beneficial to you as a buyer and will help to eliminating unexpected surprises after closing.

Related Florida real estate views:

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When is a real estate contract not a binding contract?

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Blog opinions on Florida Amendment 5

• It took a circuit court judge's ruling to give Florida a chance to come to its senses. South Florida Sun-Sentinel
• What a property tax mess? Law making and sausage making are not for the weak of heart or stomach, or so they say. John's Florida Real Estate Blog
• It seems counterintuitive, but the biggest cheerleaders for the death of Amendment 5 ought to be the very people pushing it the hardest--the Florida Association of Realtors. Incertus
• Amendment 5 is a long overdue tax cut for all property owners: families, businesses, second homeowners and investors. South Beach Residential Blog

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Homes for sale with hurricane shutters

Tropical storm Fay is passing through the state and while it did not develop into a hurricane it did remind those of us who live in Central Florida that the threat of hurricanes is very real and requires that we stay prepared.

For some home owners that preparedness involves owning a home with hurricane shutters. The sunsentinel.com has a good article on the costs to install hurricane shutters. The various types of shutters include:

• Storm panel hurricane shutters
• Accordion hurricane shutters
• Colonial hurricane shutters
• Bahama hurricane shutters
• Roll-down hurricane shutters

Of course the other option to installing shutters is to purchase a Central Florida home that is already equipped with these safety shutters. A search of the MLS today resulted in 48 homes in our 5 county area that are for sale and have hurricane shutters.

After the storm passes, give us a call and we will be happy to show you these homes.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Volusia County Schools will be closed Friday, August 22 - Tropical Storm Fay

From the Volusia County website.

Volusia County Schools reversed its decision to open schools on Friday, August 22, due to significant flooding and power outages throughout the county and a flash flood warning in west Volusia. In addition to all Volusia schools being closed, all school activities, events and extended day programs will be cancelled. District administrative offices will also remain closed. It is anticipated schools will reopen on Monday, August 25th, depending on conditions.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Orlando - Orange County schools closed Friday August 22 - Tropical Storm Fay

From Orange County school district website

Due to worse weather conditions than earlier on Thursday, Orange County Public Schools decided to close schools on Friday, August 22.


- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Seminole Schools Closed On Friday, August 22th

From Seminole school district website:

Seminole County Public Schools will be closed on FRIDAY, August 22nd, for students and all 10- and 11-month staff/personnel, including teachers and bus drivers.

The Student Make-up Day will be Tuesday, November 25, 2008.

Due to excessive rainfall, many areas of the county have flooding and some roads are impassable. These conditions greatly contribute to the closure decision.

Schools will reopen on Monday, August 25th.

Those 12-month employees who cannot work due to inclement weather conditions may take appropriate leave. On days that schools are closed due to inclement weather, a 12-month employee who feels that conditions warrant not coming to work must contact their cost center supervisor to make appropriate arrangements as follows:

1. come in late and make up time or take hourly leave for time missed,
2. use personal leave with pay,
3. use vacation leave, or
4. use personal leave without pay.

No one expects employees to work if they feel they should not due to the inclement weather conditions

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Kissimmee Osceola schools closed tomorrow - Hurricane Fay

From the Osceola school district site as of 2:12PM eastern on August 18th.

Osceola Schools To Be Closed On Tuesday, August 19th

As student safety is paramount, Superintendent Dr. Michael Grego has closed all Osceola public and charter schools on Tuesday, August 19, due to Tropical Storm Fay. All school activities and events scheduled for Tuesday are also canceled. Forecasters are expecting deteriorating weather conditions to include sustained heavy winds and substantial rainfall. No employees should report to work unless directed by their supervisor.

Plans for Wednesday, August 20, will be announced by the afternoon on Tuesday. Parents and community residents are encouraged to check the district's website at www.osceola.k12.fl.us for any further updates or call the district's Community Relations Office at 407-870-4007. Updates may also be obtained by tuning in to local TV and radio news coverage.

- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

How much for a home on 10 acres?

How much do you have to spend to buy a house on 10 acres? That is going to depend. Where are you interested in living and how big of a home are 2 choices you will make that will affect the cost.

If you are interesting in Lake County; Clermont, Eustis & the Mount Dora area, you can currently find 56 homes priced $150,000 to 0ver $4 million. In the Orlando county of Orange there are 13 homes for sale priced up to $13 million. In Osceola, home of St. Cloud and Kissimmee your selection is limited to 7 homes starting at $250,000. 13 homes on 10 acres are shown as being available in Seminole County. West Volusia, home to Deland, Deltona, and Orange City offer the biggest selection with 70 homes on the market at the present time.

If your really need room to roam then I can find a house for you. To arrange to view any property available, contact me today.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Orlando investment opportunities for overseas buyers

Orlando Florida is considered to be a good investment for overseas buyers. The international property magazine, homes overseas, view Florida as a good long term investment for those looking to buy housing.

Lars Christiaanse, head of business development at Chesterton International says, "...Orlando is good for those wishing to rent to holidaying families..."

The article goes on to discuss the continued strength of Orlando's housing long term is due in part to the major tourist attraction areas.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Orlando home builders top 10 lists

In the July 2008 Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando newsletter, the top 10 builders and neighborhoods for May were listed. The results are based on building permits.

Top 10 builders.

1. D.R. Horton
2. Pulte Homes
3. Lennar Homes
4. Centerline Homes
5. Mercedes Homes
6. Ashton Woods Homes
Tie 7. M/I Homes
Tie 7. Engle Homes
9. Meritage Homes
10. KB Home

Top 10 neighborhoods.

1. Tucker Oaks
2. Preston Square Townhomes
3. Stoneybrook West
4. Lake Sawyer South Townhomes
5. Victoria Landings
Tie 6. Windsor Hills
Tie 6. Lakes of Windermere
Tie 6. Blackstone Landings
Tie 9. Thornhill
Tie 9. Barton Court Townhomes

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Cost for construction climbing for Florida builders


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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Florida forms team to increase aid for economy

Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink announced the formation of a “Financial Action Team” to identify federal assistance available to our state. The team is being created to ensure Florida identifies documents and leverage all resources available as a result of the passing of the recent federal housing bill. The team will consist of members from various state organizations including the Florida Association of Realtors.

Related Florida real estate views:

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Baby boomers to help Florida population grow

University of Florida researchers are confident Florida's population will continue to grow in the years ahead and count on the baby boom generation to help with this growth.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255

Cost for construction climbing for Florida builders

Don Magruder, Vice President and General Manager of Ro-Mac Lumber and Supply Inc, reports in the July Whole House Commodity Index that building costs continue to climb in Florida.

This is bad news to home builders who are cautioned by Mr. Magruder to be careful when calculating their cost to build.

The cost index includes block, concrete, framing, trusses, drywall, windows, doors, garage doors, siding, insulation, and most of the accessories.

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- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255