Here are the results returned today when searching Google blogs for the term Orlando housing.
National Bubble reports “The slight glimmer of hope in the last report is no longer there,” University of Central Florida finance professor Stanley D. Smith said...
Jerry LaRose of Orlando Real Estate News Blog has some very strong opinions of the current mortgage mess.
The blog Orlando For Sale includes charts showing the April 2008 housing statistics.
British Homes Group wrote a short but detailed explanation on why the Orlando area should continue to see continued growth in the years to come.
Related Florida real estate views:
University of Florida reports housing prices hit bottom in July
Orlando housing and market conditions
What Central Florida city has the most foreclosed homes for sale?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 30, 2008
May 29, 2008
Worried about gas prices? Buy a house close to everything.
Rising gas prices are on the minds of every driving American. Auto dealers are offering gas incentives to those who purchase their cars. Each day it seems as if the price of gas jumped another 10 cents or more. So how can buying a home help you combat rising fuel prices?
Well for starters you could buy a home, “close to everything”. Imagine not having to drive very far to get anywhere. According to today’s MLS statistics, there are over 500 homes listed in Central Florida that the listing agent describes the home as being “close to everything”. Maybe you do not need to be close to everything but would like to be “close to shopping”. You are in luck, there are over 1000 homes listed described as being “close to shopping”. Still in school or have children in school? 428 homes are being offered that are “close to schools”. 201 homes are being sold that are “close to downtown.
Regardless of what you need to be close to, we can help you find just the right house that fits your need. Saving on gasoline costs is another of the reasons why buying a home today might be a good idea for some.
Related Florida real estate views:
University of Central Florida turns vegetable oil into biodiesel fuel
Central Florida gas station now offers E85 ethanol
Orlando gas prices
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Well for starters you could buy a home, “close to everything”. Imagine not having to drive very far to get anywhere. According to today’s MLS statistics, there are over 500 homes listed in Central Florida that the listing agent describes the home as being “close to everything”. Maybe you do not need to be close to everything but would like to be “close to shopping”. You are in luck, there are over 1000 homes listed described as being “close to shopping”. Still in school or have children in school? 428 homes are being offered that are “close to schools”. 201 homes are being sold that are “close to downtown.
Regardless of what you need to be close to, we can help you find just the right house that fits your need. Saving on gasoline costs is another of the reasons why buying a home today might be a good idea for some.
Related Florida real estate views:
University of Central Florida turns vegetable oil into biodiesel fuel
Central Florida gas station now offers E85 ethanol
Orlando gas prices
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Do you want to buy a house but are short on cash for a down payment?
There are down payment gift programs available that can help a qualified buyer with the needed cash to close on a home. Three of the major programs are Ameridream, Nehemiah and Sovereign Grant Alliance.
Combined with FHA financing these down payment gift programs can help a buyer purchase a home with limited funds.
Watson Mortgage and Watson Realty can provide additional information on these programs.
Combined with FHA financing these down payment gift programs can help a buyer purchase a home with limited funds.
Watson Mortgage and Watson Realty can provide additional information on these programs.
Is there a way to search for foreclosures in the MLS?
Investors looking to purchase foreclosed or bank owned homes often end up paying fees to online companies for lists of available properties. Did you know that you can obtain this same information simply by calling your local real estate agent?
In Central Florida our MLS system allows us to search for these types of homes for our customers. Choices offered in our search that would be of interest to investors include:
In Central Florida our MLS system allows us to search for these types of homes for our customers. Choices offered in our search that would be of interest to investors include:
- Assumable Mortgage
- Bank Owned
- Fixer-Upper
- In Foreclosure
- Owner Will Assist w/ Closing Costs
- Owner Will Consider Financing
- Pre-Foreclosure
- Zoned for short-term Rental
We can provide this information for free to qualified buyers. What are you looking for?
Related Florida real estate views:
Search for a home in 25 Florida counties
Florida home buyers buy block homes
Where can you find a really big home in Central Florida?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 27, 2008
St. Cloud Florida to celebrate 100 years
April/2009 St. Cloud will celebrate its 100th year. St. Cloud is located in Osceola County, Florida. The City was established in 1909 by Union Army veterans.
You can view St. Cloud real estate here.
Related Florida real estate views:
Osceola Florida #8 in housing
Land for sale in St Cloud Florida
Bank owned homes for sale in St. Cloud
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
You can view St. Cloud real estate here.
Related Florida real estate views:
Osceola Florida #8 in housing
Land for sale in St Cloud Florida
Bank owned homes for sale in St. Cloud
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Kissimmee housing statistics - 2007
The following housing stats were reported by the City of Kissimmee for 2007.
Owner occupied 36.3%
Renter occupied 48.4%
Vacant 15.4%
Building permits: 153 as compared to 398 in 2006.
Additionally 31% of the population has lived in the same house since 1995.
Complete stats
Related Florida real estate views:
What Central Florida city has the most foreclosed homes for sale?
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Owner occupied 36.3%
Renter occupied 48.4%
Vacant 15.4%
Building permits: 153 as compared to 398 in 2006.
Additionally 31% of the population has lived in the same house since 1995.
Complete stats
Related Florida real estate views:
What Central Florida city has the most foreclosed homes for sale?
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 26, 2008
Foreclosure affects families
Foreclosures are more than sub prime "blah blah blah" and stalled real estate markets. An impact of a foreclosure affects the most innocent as depicted in this video for Neighborworks. Call 1-800-995 HOPE for counseling.
Related Florida real estate views:
Impact of foreclosure on families
Failing to rent to individuals with children will cost you.
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 24, 2008
What do you call them? Bank owned, REO, Foreclosure?
You call it tomato I call it.... Whatever you call them, the number of bank owned properties for sale in the MLS offer home buyers an alternative to the many short sale properties for sale. REO homes are often easier to purchase than a short sale and are competitively priced.
The MLS shows the following number of foreclosed properties in the selected counties:
407/Osceola
428/Polk
610/Orange
Contact me in order to receive an update, free list of available homes in your area.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee foreclosure
Banks that are selling houses in Deltona
Why would anyone offer to buy a home at list price or above in this market?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
The MLS shows the following number of foreclosed properties in the selected counties:
407/Osceola
428/Polk
610/Orange
Contact me in order to receive an update, free list of available homes in your area.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee foreclosure
Banks that are selling houses in Deltona
Why would anyone offer to buy a home at list price or above in this market?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 22, 2008
Tips when buying vacant land
Make sure your offer is written on a vacant land contract and not on a standard residential contract. The residential contract isn't suitable for vacant land.
Make sure you have a due-diligence clause that allows you time to research that the land is suitable for your intended use.
Make sure the current zoning is suitable for your intended use.
If needed will you be able to put a well and septic on the property?
You should have a survey on the property prior to purchasing.
Hire a real estate professional to assist you with purchasing land in Central Florida.
Related Florida real estate views:
Don’t get scammed buying land in Florida
Florida vacant land contract
What should you know when buying land?
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Make sure you have a due-diligence clause that allows you time to research that the land is suitable for your intended use.
Make sure the current zoning is suitable for your intended use.
If needed will you be able to put a well and septic on the property?
You should have a survey on the property prior to purchasing.
Hire a real estate professional to assist you with purchasing land in Central Florida.
Related Florida real estate views:
Don’t get scammed buying land in Florida
Florida vacant land contract
What should you know when buying land?
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Success school revisted by experienced agents
Some of our experienced associates have already re-attended our new Success School and were pleased with the results. One day a week in class does not interrupt an associate’s on-going schedules and it gives the structure needed to find momentum and success in this market.
Its all about prospecting….it requires a commitment of 7 weeks of heavy prospecting!! If associates are serious about their future in real estate, this is a vehicle which will give them the push they need.
If your real estate career is stalled, contact me to discuss getting your career back on track.
Related Florida real estate views:
You don't know what you don't know about selling real estate!
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
Real estate sales success school starts again
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Its all about prospecting….it requires a commitment of 7 weeks of heavy prospecting!! If associates are serious about their future in real estate, this is a vehicle which will give them the push they need.
If your real estate career is stalled, contact me to discuss getting your career back on track.
Related Florida real estate views:
You don't know what you don't know about selling real estate!
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
Real estate sales success school starts again
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
45 hour post license class - real estate
Watson School of Real Estate is proud to announce it is now offering the state required 45hr post licensing classes. The cost of the class is $125.00 including the textbook and all other material needed to complete the class. We will also file the required paper work with the state upon completion of the class. Your initial licenses will expire on either September 30 or March 31. Please get this required class out of the way so you do not have to repeat the Principles & Practices I again.
The schedules for these classes are:
KISSIMMEE Watson Office, 1950 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy
Friday July 11th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, July 12th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, July 13th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday July 18th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, July 19th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, July 20th 9AM - 5 PM
DELAND Watson Office, 1961 S. Woodland Blvd.
Friday July 25th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, July 26th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, July 27th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Aug.1st 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Aug. 2nd 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Aug. 3rd 9AM - 5 PM
LONGWOOD Watson Office 1445 W SR434 Suite 200
Friday Aug 8th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Aug 9th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Aug 10th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Aug.15th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Aug. 16th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Aug 17th 9AM - 5 PM
CLERMONT Watson Office, 1390 Hancock Rd. Clermont
Friday Sept 5th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 6th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 7th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Sept 12th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 13th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 14th 9AM - 5 PM
LONGWOOD Watson Office 1445 W SR434 Suite 200
Friday Sept 19th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 20th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 21st 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Sept 26th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 27th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 28th 9AM - 5 PM
Contact me for a registration form.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman offers his insight on the real estate market
Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee
Florida now requiring more experience before obtaining real estate broker license
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
The schedules for these classes are:
KISSIMMEE Watson Office, 1950 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy
Friday July 11th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, July 12th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, July 13th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday July 18th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, July 19th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, July 20th 9AM - 5 PM
DELAND Watson Office, 1961 S. Woodland Blvd.
Friday July 25th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, July 26th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, July 27th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Aug.1st 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Aug. 2nd 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Aug. 3rd 9AM - 5 PM
LONGWOOD Watson Office 1445 W SR434 Suite 200
Friday Aug 8th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Aug 9th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Aug 10th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Aug.15th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Aug. 16th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Aug 17th 9AM - 5 PM
CLERMONT Watson Office, 1390 Hancock Rd. Clermont
Friday Sept 5th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 6th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 7th 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Sept 12th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 13th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 14th 9AM - 5 PM
LONGWOOD Watson Office 1445 W SR434 Suite 200
Friday Sept 19th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 20th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 21st 9 AM -6 PM
Friday Sept 26th 5 -10 PM, Saturday, Sept 27th 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday, Sept 28th 9AM - 5 PM
Contact me for a registration form.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman offers his insight on the real estate market
Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee
Florida now requiring more experience before obtaining real estate broker license
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 21, 2008
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
I spent the day instructing 10 new agents of Watson Realty on the ins and outs of the Florida purchase agreement. This is part of our 8 day success school which is geared towards giving new agents a running start.
This market may require cutbacks but one thing Watson Realty will not cut back is the training and education we provide to our agents.
We believe our agents and customers deserve no less.
Related Florida real estate views:
Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee
You don't know what you don't know about selling real estate!
Kissimmee real estate school starting in August
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
This market may require cutbacks but one thing Watson Realty will not cut back is the training and education we provide to our agents.
We believe our agents and customers deserve no less.
Related Florida real estate views:
Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee
You don't know what you don't know about selling real estate!
Kissimmee real estate school starting in August
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 19, 2008
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
Will Weaver a speaker/trainer with Floyd Wickman conducted a short sale workshop today for Watson Realty associates and management.
Will allowed me to video a portion of his presentation. This portion centered on short sales being a win-win for sellers. Highlights of this section include:
Smoother transition for the seller than a foreclosure would offer.
Seller brings nothing to closing.
No deficiency judgment.
Avoids a foreclosure on seller credit.
Helps avoid bankruptcy.
Less worry.
Each situation is different. If you are currently facing a stressful situation and are worried about losing your home in foreclosure give us a call and we will arrange to meet with you to discuss the options available to you.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida
Floyd Wickman short sale workshop
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Watson Realty Corp. Earns Achievement Award
Watson Realty Corp. is proud to announce they are the recipient of a Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® Member Achievement Award. The award was presented during the Annual Performance Awards Ceremony at the 2008 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® conference at the Boca Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton, FL. Approximately 800 real estate brokers, managers, relocation professionals, sponsors and guests from the U.S. and 11 countries around the world participated in the annual event.
Watson Realty Corp. was recognized as one of the top five companies in the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® network in 2007 for outgoing closed referrals. “Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® represents the finest brokers in the world. To earn distinction among this group is an impressive achievement that reflects a real commitment to excellence,” notes LeadingRE President/CEO Pam O’Connor. “We are privileged to have Watson Realty Corp. in our network and to recognize them with this award.”
Watson Relocation Services is a two-time recipient of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the Worldä coveted Diamond Award. The Diamond Award is presented annually to the one company in the network who has the highest overall performance and achievement worldwide.
Watson Realty Corp. is a full-service real estate company with 43 residential sales offices, 20 property management offices, Watson Commercial, Watson New Homes, Watson Home Improvement, Watson Plumbing, Watson Electric, Watson Mortgage Corp., Watson School of Real Estate, Watson Title Services, and Watson Relocation Services. They are located throughout Northeast and Central Florida as well as St. Marys, Georgia. Watson Relocation Services has offices in both Jacksonville and Orlando.
As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Watson Realty Corp. can assist individuals relocating to virtually any community in the U.S. or abroad and can meet corporate relocation needs through the network’s sister relocation company, RELO Direct®. Participation in the network’s home listing website, RELOHomeSearch.com, and luxury home marketing program, Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection™ bring world wide exposure to Watson Realty Corp.’s home listings.
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is a global real estate network comprised of nearly 700 of the best-known local and regional real estate firms. With more than 5,000 offices and 145,000 sales associates in the United States and 35 countries abroad, LeadingRE affiliates sell over $400 billion in home sales representing more than 1.3 million transactions annually, outselling any national franchise and leading the nation in the sales of $1 million-plus homes. Seven of the United States’ top 10 real estate firms are LeadingRE affiliates.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida
Watson Realty in Kissimmee makes a commitment to out sell the competition
Watson Realty Corp. Hosts Incentive Trip to Montreal, Canada
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Watson Realty Corp. was recognized as one of the top five companies in the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® network in 2007 for outgoing closed referrals. “Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® represents the finest brokers in the world. To earn distinction among this group is an impressive achievement that reflects a real commitment to excellence,” notes LeadingRE President/CEO Pam O’Connor. “We are privileged to have Watson Realty Corp. in our network and to recognize them with this award.”
Watson Relocation Services is a two-time recipient of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the Worldä coveted Diamond Award. The Diamond Award is presented annually to the one company in the network who has the highest overall performance and achievement worldwide.
Watson Realty Corp. is a full-service real estate company with 43 residential sales offices, 20 property management offices, Watson Commercial, Watson New Homes, Watson Home Improvement, Watson Plumbing, Watson Electric, Watson Mortgage Corp., Watson School of Real Estate, Watson Title Services, and Watson Relocation Services. They are located throughout Northeast and Central Florida as well as St. Marys, Georgia. Watson Relocation Services has offices in both Jacksonville and Orlando.
As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Watson Realty Corp. can assist individuals relocating to virtually any community in the U.S. or abroad and can meet corporate relocation needs through the network’s sister relocation company, RELO Direct®. Participation in the network’s home listing website, RELOHomeSearch.com, and luxury home marketing program, Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection™ bring world wide exposure to Watson Realty Corp.’s home listings.
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is a global real estate network comprised of nearly 700 of the best-known local and regional real estate firms. With more than 5,000 offices and 145,000 sales associates in the United States and 35 countries abroad, LeadingRE affiliates sell over $400 billion in home sales representing more than 1.3 million transactions annually, outselling any national franchise and leading the nation in the sales of $1 million-plus homes. Seven of the United States’ top 10 real estate firms are LeadingRE affiliates.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida
Watson Realty in Kissimmee makes a commitment to out sell the competition
Watson Realty Corp. Hosts Incentive Trip to Montreal, Canada
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Landschoot Earns RELO Direct® Service Award
Watson Realty Corp. is proud to announce that Carlotta Landschoot, EVP, Relocation Services, Watson Realty Corp. is the recipient of a Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® Member RELO Direct® Strategy Council Service Award. The award was presented during the Annual Performance Awards Ceremony at the 2008 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® conference at the Boca Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton, FL. Approximately 800 real estate brokers, managers, relocation professionals, sponsors and guests from the U.S. and 11 countries around the world participated in the annual event.
The RELO Direct® Strategy Council Service Award formally acknowledges Landschoot’s service during three year tenure on the RELO® Direct Strategy Council for outstanding dedication and contributions. “The success of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is due to the dedication of individuals who share time and expertise on programs that benefit all network members. We are delighted to recognize our members with appreciation for their many contributions,” said Pam O’Connor, president/CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.
Carlotta is a well-known member of the relocation community with over 10 years experience in this field and has frequently been invited to address national conferences on relocation issues. She is a member of the Employee Relocation Council (ERC), Relocation Director’s Council (RDC), Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), Southeastern Regional Relocation Council (SRRC) and the RealEstate.com Advisory Board.
Watson Relocation Services is a two-time recipient of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World coveted Diamond Award. The Diamond Award is presented annually to the one company in the network who has the highest overall performance and achievement worldwide.
Watson Realty Corp. is a full-service real estate company with 43 residential sales offices, 20 property management offices, Watson Commercial, Watson New Homes, Watson Home Improvement, Watson Plumbing, Watson Electric, Watson Mortgage Corp., Watson School of Real Estate, Watson Title Services, and Watson Relocation Services. They are located throughout Northeast and Central Florida as well as St. Marys, Georgia. Watson Relocation Services has offices in both Jacksonville and Orlando.
As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Watson Realty Corp. can assist individuals relocating to virtually any community in the U.S. or abroad and can meet corporate relocation needs through the network’s sister relocation company, RELO Direct®. Participation in the network’s home listing website, RELOHomeSearch.com, and luxury home marketing program, Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection™ bring world wide exposure to Watson Realty Corp.’s home listings.
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is a global real estate network comprised of nearly 700 of the best-known local and regional real estate firms. With more than 5,000 offices and 145,000 sales associates in the United States and 35 countries abroad, LeadingRE affiliates sell over $400 billion in home sales representing more than 1.3 million transactions annually, outselling any national franchise and leading the nation in the sales of $1 million-plus homes. Seven of the United States’ top 10 real estate firms are LeadingRE affiliates.
Related Florida real estate views:
Watson Realty Corp. Earns Achievement Award
Watson Realty wins relocation customer service award
Watson Realty Corp. ranked #17 in nation
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
The RELO Direct® Strategy Council Service Award formally acknowledges Landschoot’s service during three year tenure on the RELO® Direct Strategy Council for outstanding dedication and contributions. “The success of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is due to the dedication of individuals who share time and expertise on programs that benefit all network members. We are delighted to recognize our members with appreciation for their many contributions,” said Pam O’Connor, president/CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.
Carlotta is a well-known member of the relocation community with over 10 years experience in this field and has frequently been invited to address national conferences on relocation issues. She is a member of the Employee Relocation Council (ERC), Relocation Director’s Council (RDC), Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), Southeastern Regional Relocation Council (SRRC) and the RealEstate.com Advisory Board.
Watson Relocation Services is a two-time recipient of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World coveted Diamond Award. The Diamond Award is presented annually to the one company in the network who has the highest overall performance and achievement worldwide.
Watson Realty Corp. is a full-service real estate company with 43 residential sales offices, 20 property management offices, Watson Commercial, Watson New Homes, Watson Home Improvement, Watson Plumbing, Watson Electric, Watson Mortgage Corp., Watson School of Real Estate, Watson Title Services, and Watson Relocation Services. They are located throughout Northeast and Central Florida as well as St. Marys, Georgia. Watson Relocation Services has offices in both Jacksonville and Orlando.
As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Watson Realty Corp. can assist individuals relocating to virtually any community in the U.S. or abroad and can meet corporate relocation needs through the network’s sister relocation company, RELO Direct®. Participation in the network’s home listing website, RELOHomeSearch.com, and luxury home marketing program, Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection™ bring world wide exposure to Watson Realty Corp.’s home listings.
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is a global real estate network comprised of nearly 700 of the best-known local and regional real estate firms. With more than 5,000 offices and 145,000 sales associates in the United States and 35 countries abroad, LeadingRE affiliates sell over $400 billion in home sales representing more than 1.3 million transactions annually, outselling any national franchise and leading the nation in the sales of $1 million-plus homes. Seven of the United States’ top 10 real estate firms are LeadingRE affiliates.
Related Florida real estate views:
Watson Realty Corp. Earns Achievement Award
Watson Realty wins relocation customer service award
Watson Realty Corp. ranked #17 in nation
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 17, 2008
More people visiting Florida in 2008
A news release from VisitFlorida reported that there has been a 3.4% increase in visitor traffic to Florida during the 1st quarter of 2008 as compared to the same time in 2007.
With real estate sales in Central Florida receiving a boost from overseas buyers, more good news was reported that overseas travel increased as well, with approximately 931,000 visiting.
Related Florida real estate views:
Property for sale, zoned for short term rental.
Orlando international visitors are increasing.
What do consumers want to know prior to relocating?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
With real estate sales in Central Florida receiving a boost from overseas buyers, more good news was reported that overseas travel increased as well, with approximately 931,000 visiting.
Related Florida real estate views:
Property for sale, zoned for short term rental.
Orlando international visitors are increasing.
What do consumers want to know prior to relocating?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Florida continues to lose construction jobs
Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation reports the number of jobs in Florida is down 64,500 in April 2008 compared to a year ago. Construction, reacting to declines in the housing market, lost 84,700 jobs over the year (-13.8 percent). Construction losses account for 63 percent of job
losses in the state.
Related Florida real estate views:
Need a job? Upcoming job fair in Orlando.
Orlando will lead Florida in population, employment and personal income gain
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
losses in the state.
Related Florida real estate views:
Need a job? Upcoming job fair in Orlando.
Orlando will lead Florida in population, employment and personal income gain
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Floyd Wickman short sale workshop
This Monday we will be attending a short sale work shop conducted by the a speaker from the Floyd Wickman group.
The training will offer info about:
•The 3 Phases Of a Property In a Foreclosure
•Why Short Sale Versus Foreclosure
•How to Find Prospects For a Short Sale
•The 9 Vital Steps In Working a Short Sale
•The Benefits Of a Short Sale To The Seller
•How to sell a Seller on a Short Sale Versus Foreclosure
•Why it’s a Win, Win, Win for everyone involved
•The Top 10 Short Sale Opportunities
•How to Double Dip your Short Sale Listing •How To List Saleable Listings in today's market
Watson Realty offers ongoing training to all of our agents to assist them with furthering their careers and providing them with the tools to best serve the home buying and selling public.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
The training will offer info about:
•The 3 Phases Of a Property In a Foreclosure
•Why Short Sale Versus Foreclosure
•How to Find Prospects For a Short Sale
•The 9 Vital Steps In Working a Short Sale
•The Benefits Of a Short Sale To The Seller
•How to sell a Seller on a Short Sale Versus Foreclosure
•Why it’s a Win, Win, Win for everyone involved
•The Top 10 Short Sale Opportunities
•How to Double Dip your Short Sale Listing •How To List Saleable Listings in today's market
Watson Realty offers ongoing training to all of our agents to assist them with furthering their careers and providing them with the tools to best serve the home buying and selling public.
Related Florida real estate views:
Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida
Short sales may be an option to some homeowners
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 16, 2008
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
Mid-Florida MLS numbers for 2008 indicate that bank-owned foreclosures are playing a big part in the total sales transactions handled this year in Osceola County home of Kissimmee Florida.
Records reviewed today show that of the 758 reported sales in Osceola County, 163 were listed as bank-owned. These numbers should continue to hold true through-out the year with over 18% of the active inventory listed are described as being either bank owned or pre-foreclosure.
Investors looking for the better deals may find that bank owned homes are better alternatives when compared to short sales in that bank owned homes have a higher chance of closing.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee foreclosure market is heating up
Kissimmee foreclosure
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Records reviewed today show that of the 758 reported sales in Osceola County, 163 were listed as bank-owned. These numbers should continue to hold true through-out the year with over 18% of the active inventory listed are described as being either bank owned or pre-foreclosure.
Investors looking for the better deals may find that bank owned homes are better alternatives when compared to short sales in that bank owned homes have a higher chance of closing.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee foreclosure market is heating up
Kissimmee foreclosure
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 14, 2008
Homes listed for sale in Kissimmee this week
There are over 4500 homes listed for sale Kissimmee. This week resulted in 177 homes being added to the MLS between the price of $89 - $950K.
Related Florida real estate views:
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
Osceola Florida real estate market
144 homes for rent in Kissimmee
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Related Florida real estate views:
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
Osceola Florida real estate market
144 homes for rent in Kissimmee
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Is it really short sale business or no business at all?
Closing a short sale transaction can be a tough way to earn a commission. Weary eyed and frustrated agents roam the halls after making the umpteenth millionth call to the lender asking if approval has been authorized only to hear no. Buyers are frustrated, sellers are oddly disinterested and co-broking agents are hungry for their split that may never come.
So I say to the agents, why not be more selective and avoid short sale transactions that are obviously going to be tough and most likely never close? You know, the ones where there is a second mortgage or the seller plans to high tail it immediately after signing the listing contract? The most common answer I receive is "they can't be avoided because that is all the business that is available right now".
Oh really?
I decided to ask the top producing agent in the office this year how is it that short sales are not wearing her out. This is the agent who has closed more transaction and has more volume sold than anyone else within the office. Her answer was revealing. Of all the closed transaction this year only one was a short sale. That's it, just one.
Only one deal this year has been a short sale transaction? I asked her how this is possible since so many other agents contend that short sales make up the biggest part of the transaction? Her answer was that this is simply not true. There is other business out there if you know where and how to look for it. She has been able to be selective with listings she will agree to take and can assist buyers with finding comparably priced homes for sale that are not contingent upon a short sale.
I'm hoping that more of our agents find a secondary source of business to offset the time and energy spent working a short sale. I do not wish for them to ignore the short sale business. I have spent considerable time going over the finer points on how to successfully close these types of transaction. Our agents are the best trained, most prepared to handle the issues associated with short sales. I would like to see them be more selective, that's all.
Related Florida real estate views:
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
So I say to the agents, why not be more selective and avoid short sale transactions that are obviously going to be tough and most likely never close? You know, the ones where there is a second mortgage or the seller plans to high tail it immediately after signing the listing contract? The most common answer I receive is "they can't be avoided because that is all the business that is available right now".
Oh really?
I decided to ask the top producing agent in the office this year how is it that short sales are not wearing her out. This is the agent who has closed more transaction and has more volume sold than anyone else within the office. Her answer was revealing. Of all the closed transaction this year only one was a short sale. That's it, just one.
Only one deal this year has been a short sale transaction? I asked her how this is possible since so many other agents contend that short sales make up the biggest part of the transaction? Her answer was that this is simply not true. There is other business out there if you know where and how to look for it. She has been able to be selective with listings she will agree to take and can assist buyers with finding comparably priced homes for sale that are not contingent upon a short sale.
I'm hoping that more of our agents find a secondary source of business to offset the time and energy spent working a short sale. I do not wish for them to ignore the short sale business. I have spent considerable time going over the finer points on how to successfully close these types of transaction. Our agents are the best trained, most prepared to handle the issues associated with short sales. I would like to see them be more selective, that's all.
Related Florida real estate views:
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
45 hour continuing education class offered in Kissimmee
ducaRecently licensed real estate agents may wish to take advantage of our upcoming continuing education 45 hour class scheduled to take place in July. The sessions will be held at the Kissimmee Watson Realty branch office on July 11, 12,13,18,19 & 20. Start times will be from 5pm-10pm on Fridays and 9am-6pm on the Saturday/Sunday sessions.
For more information please email me at gstaker@watsonrealtycorp.com
Related Florida real estate views:
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
ORRA President Steve Moriera to focus on education
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
For more information please email me at gstaker@watsonrealtycorp.com
Related Florida real estate views:
Success school: Contracts and Addendums
ORRA President Steve Moriera to focus on education
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 13, 2008
Embraer opening facility in Florida
The new operations is expected to add 200 skilled jobs by 2011. Here is the complete press release.
The bio from the company press release:
Embraer (Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. - NYSE: ERJ; Bovespa: EMBR3) is the
world’s largest manufacturer of commercial jets up to 120 seats, and one of Brazil's leading
exporters. Embraer's headquarters are located in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, and it has
offices, industrial operations and customer service facilities in Brazil, the United States,
France, Portugal, China and Singapore. Founded in 1969, the Company designs, develops,
manufactures and sells aircraft for the Commercial Aviation, Executive Aviation, and Defense
and Government segments. The Company also provides after sales support and services to
customers worldwide. On March 31, 2008, Embraer had a workforce of 23,878 employees
and a firm order backlog of US$ 20.3 billion.
Related Florida real estate views:
Need a job? Upcoming job fair in Orlando.
Orlando will lead Florida in population, employment and personal income gain
Florida continues to lose construction jobs
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
The bio from the company press release:
Embraer (Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. - NYSE: ERJ; Bovespa: EMBR3) is the
world’s largest manufacturer of commercial jets up to 120 seats, and one of Brazil's leading
exporters. Embraer's headquarters are located in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, and it has
offices, industrial operations and customer service facilities in Brazil, the United States,
France, Portugal, China and Singapore. Founded in 1969, the Company designs, develops,
manufactures and sells aircraft for the Commercial Aviation, Executive Aviation, and Defense
and Government segments. The Company also provides after sales support and services to
customers worldwide. On March 31, 2008, Embraer had a workforce of 23,878 employees
and a firm order backlog of US$ 20.3 billion.
Related Florida real estate views:
Need a job? Upcoming job fair in Orlando.
Orlando will lead Florida in population, employment and personal income gain
Florida continues to lose construction jobs
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Countrywide wants to help troubled home owners
Testifying before a Senate Judicial Subcommittee an executive of Countrywide's written testimony included;
"Countrywide is committed to helping its borrowers avoid foreclosure wherever they have a reasonable source of income and a desire to remain in the property."
The full press release can be read here.
"Countrywide is committed to helping its borrowers avoid foreclosure wherever they have a reasonable source of income and a desire to remain in the property."
The full press release can be read here.
May 12, 2008
Seeking photos of Lake Copeland neighborhood in Orlando
The City of Orlando Historic Preservation Board is seeking photographs for the 2009 Historic Preservation Calendar. This 2009 calendar will focus on the architectural features of the Lake Copeland Historic District. The Historic Preservation Board is looking for hobby photographers to capture the uniqueness and distinct styles of the historic Lake Copeland neighborhood in black and white pictures.
Mayor Dyer's press release
Related Florida real estate views:
Orange County Community Conference - Orlando Florida
Windermere and Orange county battle over Isleworth
Making a move to Florida? Who should you call?
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Mayor Dyer's press release
Related Florida real estate views:
Orange County Community Conference - Orlando Florida
Windermere and Orange county battle over Isleworth
Making a move to Florida? Who should you call?
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
Better Business Bureau offers advice when hiring home improvement company
With the National Association of Realtors' reporting current pending home sales down 21.4 percent from the first quarter of 2007, and Standard & Poor’s citing the steepest decline in home values in the 20-year history of its housing index, many homeowners are now choosing to remodel their current home rather than selling in an effort to hold home values in the turbulent U.S. housing market.
To execute the strategy successfully, most projects require professional help and Better Business Bureau (BBB) is offering advice and guidance on finding trustworthy contractors who can help make the strategy pay off. read the entire report.
Related Florida real estate views:
Florida continues to lose construction jobs
Disabled veterans and service members can obtain housing construction grants
Don’t get scammed buying land in Florida
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0355
To execute the strategy successfully, most projects require professional help and Better Business Bureau (BBB) is offering advice and guidance on finding trustworthy contractors who can help make the strategy pay off. read the entire report.
Related Florida real estate views:
Florida continues to lose construction jobs
Disabled veterans and service members can obtain housing construction grants
Don’t get scammed buying land in Florida
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0355
Bill could help stabilize neighborhoods hit hardest with foreclosures
H.R. 5818 would establish a $15 billion loan and grant program for the purchase and rehabilitation of owner-vacated, foreclosed homes, helping to stabilize and reoccupy them as soon as possible.
H.R 5818 is important because it will provide funds to state and local governments to address the foreclosed and abandoned homes which threaten to weaken neighborhoods.
Additional information can be found here NLIHC.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents being fined for run down REO property
Impact of foreclosure on families
Florida attorneys offering free help to homeowners facing foreclosure
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
H.R 5818 is important because it will provide funds to state and local governments to address the foreclosed and abandoned homes which threaten to weaken neighborhoods.
Additional information can be found here NLIHC.
Related Florida real estate views:
Real estate agents being fined for run down REO property
Impact of foreclosure on families
Florida attorneys offering free help to homeowners facing foreclosure
- Greg Staker Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255
May 9, 2008
7% of Kissimmee listed home inventory are foreclosures
To hear some talk, every home for sale in Kissimmee is either in foreclosure, already foreclosed on or in a short sale. What do the actual numbers show?
I search the Mid-Florida MLS this afternoon looking to see what portion of the total listing inventory for the area fell into one of the categories mentioned above. Here are the results.
As of today the MLS is showing a total of 4,675 homes for sale. Of those homes:
357 homes or 7.6% are listed as being bank owned or already foreclosed on.
342 homes or 7.3% are show as needing 3rd party approval which would indicate a short sale situation. I compared this search to a search where I used the term short sale in the public comments and found 589 homes or 12% listed as subject to a short sale. 161 homes or 3% are listed as being in foreclosure. The in foreclosure, 3rd party approval and short sale descriptions would most likely be overlapping descriptions for the same type of property.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee foreclosure
Kissimmee housing statistics - 2007
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
I search the Mid-Florida MLS this afternoon looking to see what portion of the total listing inventory for the area fell into one of the categories mentioned above. Here are the results.
As of today the MLS is showing a total of 4,675 homes for sale. Of those homes:
357 homes or 7.6% are listed as being bank owned or already foreclosed on.
342 homes or 7.3% are show as needing 3rd party approval which would indicate a short sale situation. I compared this search to a search where I used the term short sale in the public comments and found 589 homes or 12% listed as subject to a short sale. 161 homes or 3% are listed as being in foreclosure. The in foreclosure, 3rd party approval and short sale descriptions would most likely be overlapping descriptions for the same type of property.
Related Florida real estate views:
Kissimmee foreclosure
Kissimmee housing statistics - 2007
Foreclosure sales make up large portion of Kissimmee market in 2008
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 6, 2008
Crazy not to buy real estate today?
One of my agents sent me this video. Mike is one of our top agents in Kissimmee. He and his wife Renee not only provide the very best in customer service, they are also taking their marketing efforts to a new level, one that includes the internet.
This video shows Mike playing around and having some fun.
Related Florida real estate views:
Holiday gifts for home owners.
Purple Cows
Watson Realty Associates enjoy cruise
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
This video shows Mike playing around and having some fun.
Related Florida real estate views:
Holiday gifts for home owners.
Purple Cows
Watson Realty Associates enjoy cruise
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
MLS taking a stand regarding short sales and commissions
Agents who list homes subject to short sales have been provided with specific instruction from Mid Florida MLS regarding entering these types of listings into the MLS especially as it relates to commission.
Currently agents have been across the board on how they handle the issue of banks attempting to and in some cases successful in reducing the amount of commission the agents will collect.
As the offer of commissions is unconditional it is now against MLS rules to address the commission issue as some have in the past. In a recent email the MLS stated;
"It is not appropriate to provide notes such as “50/50” or “half of what the lender will pay” in any fields available in MLXchange."
The bottom line is that if you offer a certain amount of commission to a cooperating broker, you better be prepared to pay it unless the broker would agree in writing to accepting less, regardless of what the bank says on the matter.
The MLS further goes on to state;
"An offer of compensation to cooperating Brokers which states that it may be adjusted after execution of a contract for sale and purchase by a third party without the consent of the cooperating Broker is not an unconditional offer of compensation, and is, thereby, in violation of the MFRMLS Rules and Regulations"
Stay tuned in as I am confident we have not heard the last of this matter.
Related Florida real estate views:
Appraisals + short sales = no sale
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Currently agents have been across the board on how they handle the issue of banks attempting to and in some cases successful in reducing the amount of commission the agents will collect.
As the offer of commissions is unconditional it is now against MLS rules to address the commission issue as some have in the past. In a recent email the MLS stated;
"It is not appropriate to provide notes such as “50/50” or “half of what the lender will pay” in any fields available in MLXchange."
The bottom line is that if you offer a certain amount of commission to a cooperating broker, you better be prepared to pay it unless the broker would agree in writing to accepting less, regardless of what the bank says on the matter.
The MLS further goes on to state;
"An offer of compensation to cooperating Brokers which states that it may be adjusted after execution of a contract for sale and purchase by a third party without the consent of the cooperating Broker is not an unconditional offer of compensation, and is, thereby, in violation of the MFRMLS Rules and Regulations"
Stay tuned in as I am confident we have not heard the last of this matter.
Related Florida real estate views:
Appraisals + short sales = no sale
Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.
Battle of the short sale: Just say no
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
May 5, 2008
A homes real value
My daughter is visiting this week. We spent this past weekend together cooking out by the pool and looking at old family photos while sitting in the family room.
I am sure my home's monetary value is being affected by today's real estate market conditions, but this weekend my home's value to me was priceless.
I am sure my home's monetary value is being affected by today's real estate market conditions, but this weekend my home's value to me was priceless.
May 1, 2008
Buy a home near a dog park
If you are a dog lover looking to buy a home in Central Florida then no doubt you would enjoy owning a home near a dog park for your favorite pet to have a place to play.To find out about other homes for sell, give us a call.
Related Florida real estate views:
The house cat only rings twice
What to look for when buying a pet friendly home in Orlando
Wanted: Orlando homes to sell with pet showers.
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Homes for sale with cherry cabinets
This home has a gourmet kitchen with 42' cherry cabinets and granite counters. There is a cherry wine caddy and china buffet also built in the kitchen.Homes with cherry cabinets are much sought after by home buyers in Central Florida.
Would you like to have a list of homes for sale with cherry cabinets? Give me a call.
Related Florida real estate views:
Deland home features
Where can you find a home with an in ground, heated, screened pool?
Buying a home? What does the community offer?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
Lender is confused with short sale
We received an email from a lender who is responding to a request for a short sale. The lender outlined how much they would accept from the home owner and in the email they added,
"We do not pay X% commission, we pay Z% commission."
Uh, excuse me Mr. Lender but technically you are not paying any commission. You and I do not have a listing agreement.
Yes, I know the opinion is if you as the lender are going to take less then everyone should take less. I can accept that. I'm just a little confused as to why you do not just concern yourself with the amount you are willing to settle for and leave my income alone?
It seems to me that your agreeing to a short sale must be the best financial solution for you or you would just foreclose? So why is it you are willing to benefit from our work of marketing and finding a ready willing and able buyer that helps not only our seller but obviously you as well, and yet you want to cut our pay?
Just so you know, we will work with our seller and do what we need to do with our commission if it helps the seller get out of a bad situation. I would just like it if you let us make that call.
Related Florida real estate views:
Appraisals + short sales = no sale
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
Lender says no to deed in lieu
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
"We do not pay X% commission, we pay Z% commission."
Uh, excuse me Mr. Lender but technically you are not paying any commission. You and I do not have a listing agreement.
Yes, I know the opinion is if you as the lender are going to take less then everyone should take less. I can accept that. I'm just a little confused as to why you do not just concern yourself with the amount you are willing to settle for and leave my income alone?
It seems to me that your agreeing to a short sale must be the best financial solution for you or you would just foreclose? So why is it you are willing to benefit from our work of marketing and finding a ready willing and able buyer that helps not only our seller but obviously you as well, and yet you want to cut our pay?
Just so you know, we will work with our seller and do what we need to do with our commission if it helps the seller get out of a bad situation. I would just like it if you let us make that call.
Related Florida real estate views:
Appraisals + short sales = no sale
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
Lender says no to deed in lieu
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
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