Florida at the top of nonemployer business in the country

U.S. Census Bureau announced that statistics for 2006 show Florida as one of the States that lead the country in nonemployer businesses. Florida was ranked 3rd behind California and Texas.

Nonemployer businesses of note around the country were;

• Real estate and rental and leasing
• Construction
• Professional scientific and technical services
• Child day care services
• Taxi and limousine service

The ability to start and successfully run your own business in Florida is another in a long list of reasons why Florida is a great place to call home.

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

President Bush not completely happy with housing bill

White House Press Secretary Dana Perino in a press briefing acknowledged that President Bush signed the housing bill this week even though he was not happy with parts of the bill.

When questioned by reporters if the absence of ceremony or a statement by President Bush when signing the bill was an indication of President Bush's desire to distance himself from the bill, Ms. Perino responded;

"When a President of the United States, no matter who it is, signs a bill, that's putting your name on it. And we said last week that there was a provision of the bill that we think bailed out lenders rather than helping homeowners, and we didn't agree with it, but we recognized that the timing was such that we needed the bill sooner than later. And having a prolonged veto fight that we were convinced we would win, and we proved that we would win, was not in the best interest of the housing market and of the credit market. And so that's why the President signed the bill today. "

The housing bill is being considered one of the most important pieces of legislation in decades.


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

Housing slowdown slows paint sales

The U.S. housing slowdown is considered partially responsible for the drop in paint sales. Heath Aston of the TimesOnline reports that US sales of decorative paints fell 7 per cent in the second quarter according to the largest paint maker in the world, AkzoNobel.


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

Buyers are choosing fixed rate mortgages

The Mortgage Bankers Association reports that consumers increasingly chose fixed rate mortgage products during the last part of 2007.

Fixed rate loans accounted for 63.6 percent of loans in the second half of 2007.

The survey also noted that the first time purchaser's average loan amount was $215,185 during the last half of 2007.

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

Are you looking to buy a home with a big backyard?

You would be in good company.

The NASA map indicates areas in the country where there are human maintained lawns. According to the article, scientists say that lawns cover more of our countries surface than any other irrigated crop.

The article discusses the impact that maintaining these lawns have on the environment.



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

Florida luxury real estate

In which town or city in Central Florida are you most likely to purchase a luxury estate? Winderemere, which is located in Orange County and home to the very popular luxury neighborhoods of Isleworth and Keenes Point, is the most popular city in 2008 with 19 homes selling in 2008 priced at $2 million or more.

Here are the other cities and towns where luxury estates have sold this year.

• Windermere 19


• Orlando 8


• Winter Park 8


• Longwood 2


• Montverde 1


• Lake Mary 1


• Maitland 1


• Altamonte Springs 1

Luxury estate sold prices have ranged from $2 million to $9 million.

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

Florida real estate market

The following statistics are compiled and reported by the Florida Association of Realtors for the State.

• Median price of a home for June: $205,500.


• Median price of a condo for June: $183,700.


• 11,700 homes sold in June

In the Orlando market area the median sales price of a home is $219,500.

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

Florida Senators vote in favor of foreclosure bill HR 3221

H.R. 3221 the Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008 which is a bill to provide needed housing reform and for other purposes passed in the Senate today by a vote of 72-12.

Senator Martinez (R-FL) and Senator Nelson (D-FL) voted yes on the bill.

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

Buy a handyman special

Handyman specials or fixer uppers offer the chance to buy a home in need of repairs often at a price lower than normal. If you are an individual or investor that is not afraid of little or lots of work, a handyman special may be perfect for you.

Handyman specials will often not qualify for normal financing so if you are looking to purchase one, make sure you have cash available or have lined up financing suitable for this type of transaction.

The current housing inventory includes numerous homes being sold as a fixer upper or handyman special.

The Central Florida cities with the largest selection of homes include:

1. Orlando 262


2. Deltona 63


3. Kissimmee 52


4. Deland 33


5. Winter Park 31


6. Apopka 30


7. Sanford 30


8. Saint Cloud 26


9. Clermont 21

For specific information about an area or work needed in a home give me a call.

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

Florida has the best workforce in the country

In a CNBC study, Florida ranked number 1 in the country for it's workforce. The study looked at the education level of the workforce, the available number of workers and a state's work training programs.

Here are the additional categories and Florida's rank according to the survey.

• Cost of Business - 42
• Economy - 20
• Education - 39
• Quality of Life - 23
• Technology & Innovation - 9
• Transportation - 18
• Cost of Living - 34
• Business Friendliness - 16
• Access to Capital - 9

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

5 bedroom house for sale in Deltona

Do you need lots of bedrooms? There are 33 homes as of today listed as having at least 5 bedrooms for sale in Deltona. The square footage of these homes range from 1900 to over 6ooo! Prices top out at $950K. In some cases these homes have a converted garage that is being used as a bedroom.

If you would like a free list of homes in Deltona and West Volusia that have 5 bedrooms or more, give me a call.


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

Florida is a great place to operate a business

According to Pollina Corporate Real Estate, Florida ranks as the second best state to operate a business in the U.S. Pollina Corporate Real Estate, Inc. is a full service brokerage and consulting firm that based the rankings on factors that are most important to corporate executives and can be controlled by a state's political leaders.

Here is their top 10 list.

1. North Carolina
2. Florida
3. Virginia
4. South Carolina
5. Wyoming
6. South Dakota
7. Georgia
8. Alabama
9. Utah
10. Kansas

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

What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?

The FAR 9 (4/07) contract which is the purchase agreement contract created by the Florida Association of Realtors outlines the seller's obligation for warranted items, inspections and repairs. The items the home seller is responsible to maintain, repair or warrant include:

• Major appliances
• Heating & cooling
• Major mechanical items
• Electrical
• Security system
• Sprinkler system
• Septic system
• Plumbing
• Pool equipment
• Seawall
• Dock
• Roof, doors, windows & the pool all must be sound and watertight
• Missing screens and missing roof tiles to be repaired or replaced

The contract states that these items must be in working condition or working in the manner they were designed to operate.

If you need specific legal advice concerning your contractual obligations you should always seek the opinion of an attorney.

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

Homes for sale in Deland

Today’s real estate market report indicates that there are 716 homes for sale in Deland Florida. Home prices range from $29,900 up to $5,200,000. The following is a example of the inventory break down;

• Homes priced $1.00 - $200,000: (338)
• Homes priced $200,001 – $500,000: (303)
• Homes prices $500,001 & up: (75)
• Homes that are 3 bedroom, 2 bath: (299)
• Homes that have a 2 car garage: (357)
• Homes built in 2000 or later: (275)
• Homes listed in the last 30 days: (101)

Search for a home for sale that matches your criteria by using our free home search link on the right side of this page or give us a call and we will do the search for you.

View Larger Map

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

Volusia County affordable housing

The newly appointed Affordable Housing Advisory Committee of Volusia County will hold its inaugural meeting at 3 p.m. on July 31 at the Volusia County Council chambers. (see map)



View Larger Map


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

Florida home prices increase by 26%

According to the Florida Association of Realtors the median home price in Florida has increased by 26.9% since June of 2003.

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

How does President Bush pick a real estate agent?

President Bush was caught on video discussing in part, his need for a home after his term ends. He mentioned that Mrs. Bush was in the Dallas area trying to buy a house.

Here are the questions that come to mind.

• How did they find their real estate agent?
• Will they be looking at homes that are bank owned or contingent upon a short sale?
• Will they make a low ball offer?

I wish The Bush family would blog about their house buying experience. That would be interesting.

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

Americans believe home prices will increase

According to information gathered by a Financial Times/Harris Poll, 68% of American adults believe home prices will increase over the next 5 years.

At the same time 39% of the adults polled are somewhat to extremely concerned about losing their primary residents over the next 12 months due to not being able to make their payments.


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

Construction sites visited by enforcement agency

DBPR's Division of Regulation visited 37 construction sites last week in Brevard, Orange, Osceola, Volusia and Seminole counties.

The visits were to uncover unlicensed contractors or minors employed in hazardous activities.

Interim Secretary Chuck Drago was quoted as saying. “I am very pleased to see that our investigators found such a high rate of compliance.” News release


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

HUD is coming to a theater near you

HUD has announced that they are running public service announcements in movie theaters across the country in order to educate home buyers on fair lending rights.

This National public awareness campaign will run in 28 cities including 10 cities with the worst foreclosure rate.

The Florida cities and movie theaters listed are:

• AMC Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura FL 33180
• AMC Pleasure Island, 1500 N Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista FL 32830
• AMC Orange Park, 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park FL 32073

In addition HUD also plans TV and radio spots and town hall style meetings in hopes that the ongoing education will reduce the amount of unfair lending practices.

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

Trump sells Florida home for $95 million

Reports from the guardian.co.uk World news is that Donald Trump closed on $95 million dollar Palm Beach estate this week. According to a spokesperson this is the largest sold price the country has ever seen.

Donald Trump is quoted as commenting about the sale;

"I love breaking records" ...

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Holiday homes for sale in Florida

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

Land for sale in St Cloud Florida

St. Cloud Florida is located in Osceola County in Central Florida. As of this post there are over 200 listings of land for sale in the MLS.

Some of the uses listed for the land for sale include:

• Commercial use 5 listings
• Industrial use 5 listings
• Mixed use 12 listings
• Mobile Home use 17 listings
• Residential development 28 listings
• Single family use 116 listings

Let us know the type of land you are interested in selling or buying in St. Cloud. We are happy to help.

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

Alaqua golf community - Longwood Florida

There are over 50 homes currently listed for sale in the golf community of Alaqua located in Longwood Florida just outside of Orlando. These homes range in price from $589K to over 3 million dollars.

23 homes have sold in Alaqua this year according to reports. Sold home prices ranged from $647K to 2.3 million.

Call me for detailed information about available homes in Alaqua or to determine the value of your Alaqua home.

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

Banks that are selling houses in Deltona

It use to be a home owner would try and keep up with the Smiths or Jones in their neighborhood. In some Deltona neighborhoods the Smith and Jones are now the Bank of New York and Deutsche Bank, among others.

Bank owned or REO homes are growing in number across Central Florida including Deltona. With Foreclosures increasing in the State, more and more bank owned homes are popping up in Deltona.

Who are your new neighbors? Here is a sample list of banks and lenders that currently have homes for sale in Deltona.

• Bank of New York
• Deutsche Bank Natl Trust Co.
• Chase Home Finance LLC
• World Savings Bank
• US Bank Natl Assn
• Wells Fargo Bank
• HSBC Mtg. Services Inc.
• Allied Mtg. & Financial Corp.
• JP Morgan Chase Bank
• Federal Natl Mtg Assn.
• Washington Mutual Bank
• AMF Natl. Funding Inc.
• Accredited Home Lenders Inc.
• IndyMac
• Novastar Mtg. Inc.
• Lasalle Bank
• GRP Loan LLC
• Fremont Investment & Loan
• Central Mtg. Co.

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

Lakefront homes in Orlando for sale

Owning a home on the lake is a dream come true for many Orlando residents. The panoramic views, the fishing and water sports that the homeowner can enjoy just a few feet away from their home, makes living on a lake the perfect home for many.

There are several lakes in the Orlando area that have homes for sale on them. This is a partial list of lakes in the Orlando area that offer a perfect lakefront home for you.

Lake Phillips, Lake Sheen, Lake Down, Lake Price, Lake Eola, Lake Salem, Lake Pineloch, Lake Marsha, Big Sand Lake, Lake Whippoorwill, Lake Lawne, Lake Susan, Lake Underhill, Lake Gloria, Lake Cay Dee, Lake Charter, Lake Rouse, Lake Georgia, Lake Rose, Lake Holden, Lake Conway, Lake Mary Jane, Lake Hiawassee, Turkey Lake, Vista Lake, Lake Bryan, Lake Hill, Lake Catherine, Lake Blanche, Lake Lurna, Lake Tibet, Lake Gatlin and Lake Ramba.

There have been nearly 100 homes listed in the last 30 days in Orlando that are lakefront homes and over 800 homes for sale right now in Orlando that are described as being lakefront. Give us a call if you are interested in purchasing a lakefront home in Orlando.


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

Holiday homes for sale in Florida

Perhaps you are living in New Zealand, Ireland, United Kingdom, South Africa or Australia and are interested in purchasing a holiday home in the United States and specifically Florida? Is there an easy way to find out about available holiday homes for sale, the price ranges and locations?

Now there is. I have added a holiday homes section to my website which will allow you to view a sample of the homes for sale in Central Florida. You will also find links to important information about owning a home in Florida, the current Florida real estate market conditions and the home buying process from my site.

The cities in which you will be able to search for holiday homes or vacation homes include;

• Kissimmee
• Davenport
• Poinciana
• St. Cloud
• Orlando
• Clermont

The list of homes will be continually updated. Of course you also have the option of calling or emailing me to receive a free list of homes as they enter the market place.

The current real estate market in Florida offers and excellent opportunity to purchase a holiday home at a tremendous price. We have a huge selection of homes for you to choose from.

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

When do you need to pull a permit?

The following are a list of repairs, replacements and alterations to your home that require you pull a print before beginning in Orlando.

• Doors and Windows
• Garden Sheds
• Decks
• Skylight
• Pavers
• Screen Enclosures
• Irrigation Systems
• Signs
• Driveways and Sidewalks
• Fences
• Solar Panels
• Water Heaters
• Air-Conditioning Units
• Tile Roof
• Gutters and Downspouts
• Water Fountains
• Low-Voltage Wiring
• Stucco
• Wood Siding
• Above Ground Pools
• Wall Sconces
• Gates
• Pergola

Source: City of Orlando

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

Foreclosures for sale: Million dollar houses

Pre-foreclosures, short sales and REO/bank owned property for sale at a price of 1 million dollars or more? Is it possible that you can find great deals even in the Central Florida luxury real estate market?

Million dollar pre-foreclosures, bank owned and houses being sold subject to a short sale contingency offer an opportunity to pick up one of the finest homes in Central Florida at fair market value.

My recent search uncovered 11 of these homes for sale in Central Florida. Cities included; Orlando, Windermere, Saint Cloud and Reunion Florida. List prices start at 1 million up to 5.6 million!

If you are a luxury home buyer looking for a deal, give me a call or email to arrange to receive a list of these types of properties for sale.


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

Deland houses for sale

There are currently over 800 houses for sale in Deland. These houses in Deland have a price range from $29K - $5.2 million!

So far in 2008, 252 homes have sold in Deland as compared to 355 for the same time period last year.

Deland is located between Orlando and Daytona. The St. John's River, Stetson University and the beautiful downtown area perfect for summer strolls makes Deland the perfect choice for those looking to relocate to Central Florida.


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

Builders say tax credit will boost sales.

According to the latest National Association of Home Builders press release, builder confidence in the real estate market continues to fall.

NAHB President Sandy Dunn stated, “The worsening housing slump and the near-meltdown in financial markets last week makes it even more urgent for Congress to complete action on the housing bill now, a move that will help stabilize and restore confidence in housing and the U.S. economy.”

A portion of the housing bill calls for a tax credit of up to $8000 which the builder association believes will attract buyers into the market place.

Builder Association press release


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

Floyd Wickman is coming to Central Florida

Ken Bennett, Central Florida Regional Director & Watson Realty are proud to announce that Floyd Wickman will be presenting "How To Succeed In A Soft Market" exclusively for Watson Realty Central Florida offices!

Floyd Wickman one of the most respect names in real estate, creator of the Sweathogs Training Program and StarPower Success Systems, has agreed to share with us the knowledge that has helped hundreds of thousands of Realtors around the world, achieve success that they likely wouldn't have without it.

Floyd will be meeting with our entire management team following his presentation to share his thoughts on how to build and grow your office into a team of dedicated and motivated professionals, all working together to achieve both common and personal goals!

The program will be held Tuesday, August 26th, 9:30am to 12:30pm at the Bahia Shrine Auditorium in Maitland.


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

6 bedroom house for sale in Florida

Do you need a big house? A really big house? There are several homes for sale in Central Florida that have at least 6 bedrooms!

Here is a list of cities and the number of houses for sale that are at least 6 bedrooms.

• Orlando: 139. Price between $99K - $6.9 million
• Kissimmee: 104. Price between $104K - $3.5 million
• Clermont: 28. Price between $220K - $4.9 million
• Windermere: 50 Price between $427K - $11.5 million

I can help you find a 6 bedroom home or more anywhere in Central Florida. Give me a call.

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

Habitat for Humanity - House of cardboard

These Pennsylvania youth are showing their support to fight poverty housing in their county and to promote Habitat for Humanity.




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What can you expect to find in a home priced 5 million or higher?

As of this writing there are 39 homes actively for sale in Orange County ,which includes Orlando, priced at 5 million dollars and above. So far in 2008 5 homes in Orange County have sold for 5 million or higher.

So what will 5 million buy you in the heart of Central Florida? Here are some of the features and highlights listed on the available property.

• Mediterranean architecture
• Lakefront
• Gourmet kitchen
• Butler's pantry
• Wine cellar
• Golf course frontage
• Private boat dock
• Interior stone moldings
• Poolside Gazebos
• Media rooms
• Exercise rooms
• Elevator
• Private gated estate
• Library
• Guest quarters
• Oversize garages
• Italian tile
• Marble fireplace
• Spiral staircases
• Massage areas
• Cabanas
• Custom crafted doors and cabinetry

What do you expect to find in a luxury estate you would consider buying?

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

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

Where do you have the best chances to find an REO/bank-owned home to purchase? Current MLS statistics show that Poinciana's housing inventory has the largest percentage of bank-owned homes for sale at just over 13%. Osceola County leads the way with Kissimmee also in the top 3.

Foreclosure inventory

1. Poinciana 13%
2. Davenport 9.3%
3. Kissimmee 8.9%
4. Deltona 8.5%
5. Orlando 4.7%
6. Sanford 4.4%
7. Altamonte Springs 4.3%
8. Clermont 4.3%
9. Saint Cloud 4.1%
10. Eustis 3.8%
11. Debary 3.7%
12. Windermere 2.6%
13. Deland 2.6%
14. Lake Mary 2.3%
15. Winter Park 1.8%

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

Impact of foreclosure on families

First Focus has a report that you should read dealing with the impact of foreclosures on children and families.

The report titled: The Impact of the Mortgage Crisis on Children written by Phillip Lovell and Julia Isaacs.

The report centers on the fact the foreclosures affects a child:

• Education
• Social relationships
• Physical health
• Emotional health

According to this report 2 million children will be impacted by foreclosure

Please read the First Focus report.

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

Volusia County schools receive good grades

Volusia County School District which includes the Deland and Deltona schools announced that 78% of the schools in the district received an A or B on the School Accountability Report released by the Department of Education.

Press release


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The plan calls for extending credit and lending funds if needed.

Don’t get scammed buying land in Florida

You can take precautionary steps that will prevent you from being scammed when purchasing land in Florida. The facts are there is land in Florida that is not able to be built on and basically worthless to most potential buyers.

If you remember that “if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is” and then follow these basic steps, you should be able to avoid getting scammed when purchasing land in Florida.

Make sure before buying you:

• Physically inspect the property. If you cannot visit the property yourself, then contact a trusted source to go out to look at the property.
• Research taxes and assessments attached to the property.
• Ask an agent or agents to provide you with a market analysis of the land.
• Check with the city or county to determine future land use and any additional information about the land that affect value.
• If you are buying from a builder/developer/real estate agent, check to make sure that they are in good standing with state and local license associations and business bureaus.
• Hire professionals to perform any and all inspections that you feel are important.
  

If the person you are buying from seems rushed or pushy, walk away. Taking precautionary steps prior to signing a contract to purchase land in Florida is a wise decision.

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

Blog disclaimer

Florida Real Estate View is my personal blog. My comments, opinions, observations, reflections, thoughts and information that I post are mine and mine alone and not those of my employer.

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.”

Posts or comments on this blog should not be relied upon as legal or financial advice.

Any links to third parties, websites and blogs not under my control are for informational purposes only. In most cases I have not personally reviewed all content on the sites that I may link to.

The information posted on this blog is deemed reliable at the time of posting but errors can occur and my opinions can change without notice.

Need a job? Upcoming job fair in Orlando.

Workforce Central Florida will be presenting a job fair on July 30th from 12:30-4 p.m.

For those looking for work, this job fair will give you an opportunity to meet with area employers who have job openings.

The job fair will be held at 5166 E. Colonial Drive in Orlando.


View Larger Map


View the complete press release

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Orlando will lead Florida in population, employment and personal income gain

Florida continues to lose construction jobs

Embraer opening facility in Florida

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

When is the first day of school in Kissimmee?

Here is the Osceola County School Board 2008-2009 School Calendar

• 8/18 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS


• 9/1 LABOR DAY - TEACHER/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 10/20 END OF 1ST 9 WEEKS


• 10/21 FIRST DAY OF 2ND 9 WEEKS


• 10/23 TEACHER WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 10/24 TEACHER IN-SERVICE DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 11/11 VETERANS DAY-TEACHER/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 11/24-11/26 EMERGENCY MAKE-UP DAY FOR TEACHER NON-WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 11/27 THANKSGIVING - TEACHER/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 11/28 TEACHER NON-WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 12/19 LAST DAY OF CLASSES - WINTER BREAK


• 12/22-12/31 TEACHER/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 1/1-1/2 TEACHER/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 1/5 CLASSES RESUME


• 1/15 END OF 2ND 9 WEEKS


• 1/16 TEACHER WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 1/19 MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY TEACHER/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 1/20 FIRST DAY OF 3RD 9 WEEKS


• 2/20 RODEO DAY TEACHER NON-WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 3/24 END OF 3RD 9 WEEKS


• 3/25 FIRST DAY OF 4TH 9 WEEKS


• 3/27 TEACHER WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 4/6-4/10 SPRING BREAK


• 5/25 TEACHER NON WORK DAY/STUDENT HOLIDAY


• 6/4 END OF 4TH 9 WEEKS – LAST DAY FOR STUDENTS

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Kissimmee is an All American City

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

New homes planned for Deland

BOB KOSLOW reported for the news-journalonline that a 153 unit single family development is being planned in Deland near the existing Victoria Park community.

Deland’s community development director Dale Arrington, is quoted in the news report regarding concerns for over development,

"We are still issuing building permits for real people moving into new homes and
not as investments, so I am not worried about over building here. We are still
an active community."

Read the complete news report.


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Florida vacant land contract

When buying land in Florida your contract should allow you the time to conduct a feasibility study to determine if the property is 100% suitable to you for your intended use. This feasibility study can include architectural analyses, surveys, assessments & inspections for:

• Phase 1 environmental
• Engineering
• Architectural
• Zoning & zoning restrictions
• Subdivisions statutes
• Soil & grade
• Access to roads, water, utilities
• Consistent with growth management plans
• Availability of permits, government approvals and licenses

You are not limited to the type of inspections you are allowed to have. Make sure you have a clause in your contract to purchase land that allows for a feasibility study.

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Foreclosures down across the country but up in Florida

According to a press release from RealtyTrac, foreclosures decreased by 3% in June from the previous month across the U.S. However the news was not as good for Florida as the number of foreclosures increased 8% over May and 92% over June of 2007.

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Orlando home sellers: giving in, selling or losing their home?

There comes a point when you have to foreclose.

Is there a way to search for foreclosures in the MLS?

Orlando home sellers: giving in, selling or losing their home?

ORRA released a new set of numbers dealing with the Greater Orlando housing market. It was noted as a positive that the listings inventory has dropped by 46% since January.

• It is possible that more sellers are giving in or that the listing agents are giving up and if the home is priced to high, they are being taken off the market. MLS reports indicate that 821 Orlando homes were withdrawn from the market in June, 792 in May and 747 in April.
  
• The ORRA report also noted that June saw a 7% increase in sales over May. That is great news and something we have not seen in some time. The hope is that this trend will continue upward regardless of how slightly throughout the year and in to 2009.
  
• Another sad truth is that more people are losing their homes in the Orlando area. Recent reports indicate that Orlando ranks higher than most metropolitan areas in foreclosure rates. The foreclosures will pull down the listing inventory temporarily only to see these same homes reappear months later as bank owned listings.

These are 3 good reasons why the inventory is dropping in the Orlando area. What it means long term is still to be determined.

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Code of Ethics training to be held in Kissimmee

Real estate agents interested in obtaining their required ethics training can accomplish this at our Watson Realty Kissimmee office on July 22, from 1 p.m - 4 p.m. The cost is free. Seats are on a first come first serve basis. you can reserve a seat by contacting Greg Staker at 407-304-0255.


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Real estate agents being fined for run down REO property

This is amazing.

In an article written by D.L. Bennett for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, real estate agents who list properties that are run-down or not maintained are being fined. In one reported case an agent was reportedly fined $3,311.

Those agents who list bank owned/foreclosed properties feel they are being unduly punished simply because it is easier for code enforcement to fine them, than to locate and fine the lenders who are often out of state.

City official quote a code that allows them to “cite anyone from the owner to someone who has the ability to control or maintain the property”.

What is next? Will listing agents be obligated to make up mortgage payments not paid? Pay the city back taxes on property the agent is trying to market? I certainly hope NAR has taken notice of this and will offer assistance to the Atlanta Board of Realtors in fighting this silliness.


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

Florida attorneys offering free help to homeowners facing foreclosure

In a recent news release from The Florida Bar News, Attorneys in Florida have announced the formation of, FLASH - Florida Attorneys Saving Homes. The Florida Bar, The Florida Bar Foundation, Florida Legal Services, and the Real Property Probate and Trust Law Section all are taking part in this effort.

If you are one of the thousands of Floridians who have fallen behind on payments or are about to fall behind, you can contact FLASH by using their toll free number, (866) 607-2187. The phones are answered during the week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This pro bono project is the first to place homeowners and volunteer attorneys together before the foreclosure starts according to Kent Spuhler, executive director of Florida Legal Services, Inc.


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Mr. Postman look and see if there is a letter from FHA for me.


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

Florida receive HUD grant to develop housing for low-income elderly

Senior housing developments in 30 states will receive critically needed funding to get their projects off the ground thanks to more than $17 million in "pre-development" grants announced today by U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston. The grants are awarded to 63 project sponsors under HUD's Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program.

Florida project sponsor recipients are:

Diocese of St. Petersburg $400,000
Diocese of Southwest Florida $400,000

According to U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston, "This funding will help these organizations cope with the complexities of developing vitally important elderly housing projects in their communities," said Preston. "These funds can make all the difference between these senior housing developments getting built or not. In many respects, it's our way of investing in our elderly just as they devoted so much of themselves to us."


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Few Florida single-family homes suitable for disabled or elderly

Homeless population decreases according to HUD


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

Bank owned homes for sale in St. Cloud

Search for homes

This market update for St. Cloud concerns bank owned and distressed property for sale in St. Cloud Florida this year.

According to the Mid-Florida MLS, there are currently 987 homes for sale. Approximately 21% of this inventory is either bank owned (44), short sales (136) or in foreclosure (32).

So far in 2008, 19% of the homes that have sold in St. Cloud were bank owned homes.


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

Kissimmee Florida - Bowling Capital of America?

Osceola County in a deal with United States Bowling Congress and Walt Disney World Resort will hold 13 bowling championships from 2011 - 2029.

Osceola expects nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars in economic impact for the community.

News release


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Kissimmee is an All American City


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

Where is Hurricane Bertha?

Hurricane Bertha is the first hurricane of the season. This image is from National Hurricane Center. To stay current on the location and conditions associated with Hurricane Bertha you should visit the National Weather Center Hurricane page.


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Does your agent have enough money to advertise your home?

The lack of sales is taking its toll on real estate agents. With fewer closings, agents are finding it hard to pay their personal bills, much less advertise and market a customer's home.

Agents who are having a hard time financially may not be willing to order a virtual tour for homes they have listed. While listing inventory explodes to record numbers, print advertisement becomes non-existent. Agents have abandon their websites in order to eliminate the monthly hosting fees.

Even direct mail has diminished, with the cost to create and mail a postcard that announces a new listing or new sale is no longer financially possible to many.

All of this may save an agent an extra dollar but does nothing to help sell a home owners property. Sellers need to be concerned when interviewing agents prior to listing their home and ask them if their marketing budget has decreased and to what extent during these challenging times.

Watson Realty continues to maintain a marketing plan to sell homes that has been successful for over 40 years. Agents with Watson Realty can take advantage of several marketing tools provided as a benefit to the agent and geared towards providing our sellers an advantage in the marketplace.


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Real estate agent costs rise as income dwindles



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

Lender says no to deed in lieu

We recently received a call from the lender of one of our short sale listings. The seller had decided to give the home back with a deed in lieu. The lender is not willing to accept the deed in lieu and has asked our agent to list the home at a price where it will sell.

A deed in lieu is a way for sellers to deliver property back to an investor in order to avoid foreclosure. In this case it appears the lender would rather accept a short sale over deed in lieu or foreclosure.

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New law may save your house

President Bush not completely happy with housing bill

Florida Senators vote in favor of foreclosure bill HR 3221

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

I would not buy a house in Florida.

I would not buy a house in Florida without first consulting with, and then using, the services of a real estate agent. Why is it important to take advantage of the skill and professionalism of a full-time agent when buying a house in Florida, especially now?

There are several reasons and they all involve money. Let's look at a few of those reasons.

• The excessive home inventory, in nearly every Florida market, require the assistance of an agent to help sift through all the available homes for sale to find those that match your desired criteria. This will save you time, and time is money.
• Price comparison. Let's say you are interested in a home in a certain neighborhood. Before making an offer on the home, you might want to know what the sales price of similar homes, in and around the area, have been. Your real estate agent can find out what comparable homes in the neighborhood are listed for, and what some homes sold for. They will also be able to tell you if there are short sale situations or bank-owned homes for sale which, when sold, could drastically lower the future value of the home you are interested in.
• Mortgage Information. The mortgage industry is experiencing issues of its own as a result of the current real estate market. Your agent can introduce you to trusted sources in the lending industry which will allow you to compare available programs in order to find the best rate, down payment, closing costs and loan terms.

If you are going to buy a home, having a real estate agent assisting you through every step is an advantage that you should not pass up.

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

Kissimmee - Hurricane Preparation Expo

City & County residents of Kissimme can attend a Hurricane Preparation Expo to be held at the Kissimmee Civic Center, 210 E. Dakin Avenue on Saturday July 12 between 10 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Groups that will be participating include:

• Osceola County Emergency Management
• Extension Services
• Council on Aging
• Animal Control
• Lowe’s
• City of Kissimmee
• Florida Division of Emergency Management
• Kissimmee Utility Authority
• Toho Water Authority
• South Florida Water Management

With the first storm of the season forming this week, it is important for everyone to be prepared for a hurricane.

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Baby Boomers love to grill

According to a poll completed by Harris 3 in5 baby boomers and generation Xers are likely to grill out more than once a month.

Half of Baby Boomers who grill (49%) say they do so all year long.

What do they like to grill?

• Beef 56%
• Hamburger 47%
• Chicken 38%
• Hot dogs 16%
• Sausage 12%
• Vegetables 10%
• Fish 6%

Here at the Staker home, we like chicken and corn on the cob.

If you would like to find a home with a built in grill or a backyard large enough to enjoy grilling your favorite food item, give me a call.

Related Florida real estate view:

Aging baby boomer population

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

More people sharing living arrangements suggest University of Florida

Wayne Archer, director of UF’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies stated today “The decline in consumer spending is finally beginning to show up in rental markets,” Archer said.

“The biggest surprise is how notable the downturn in the state of the apartment market appears to be,” Archer said. “It could be that people are trying to save money by doubling up and sharing accommodations with roommates, reducing the demand for apartments.

Mr. Archer was also suggested that the real estate market may start seeing a change around the spring of 2009.

News release

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The condition of the rental property is important.

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

Kyle Busch wins coke zero 400

2nd in 2006, Kyle wins the Coke Zero 400. Carl Edwards finished second.

Volusia County 2008-09 School Year Calendar

Search for a home

From the Volusia County Schools News Room

2008-09 School Year Calendar

• August 12 (Tuesday) . Preplanning Begins – Teachers Report
• August 18 (Monday) . First Day of School for Students
• September 1 (Monday). Labor Day Holiday
• September 26 (Friday). Professional Development Day/Student Holiday
• October 24 (Friday) . Teacher Duty Day/Student Holiday
• November 10 (Monday). Teacher/Student Holiday
• November 11 (Tuesday). Veterans Day Holiday
• November 21 (Friday). Thanksgiving Holiday Begins - End of Day
• December 1 (Monday) .Classes Resume
• December 19 (Friday). Winter Holiday Begins - End of Day
• January 5 (Monday) . Classes Resume
• January 16 (Friday). Teacher Duty Day/Student Holiday
• January 19 (Monday) . Martin Luther King’s Birthday Holiday
• February 16 (Monday) . Presidents’ Day Holiday
• March 30 (Monday). Teacher Duty Day/Student Holiday
• April 3 (Friday). Spring Holiday Begins - End of Day
• April 13 (Monday) . Classes Resume
• May 25 (Monday) . Memorial Day Holiday
• June 5 (Friday). Last Day of School for Students
• June 9 (Tuesday) . Last Day of School for Teachers
  
  Make-up days for inclement weather include:
  
• November 10
• November 24
• November 25.

The order in which the days would be used will be decided later if they become necessary.

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

Why is my electric bill high?

If you are a Florida Power customer you might be asking that question in the months ahead.

The Florida Public Service Commission approved Florida Power & Light Company request to increase their customer’s electric costs to offset unanticipated fuel costs. Reports are that the increase will be approximately 8%.

The FPL news release does offer the following ways to reduce your electricity usage.

• Cool your home at 78 degrees or warmer with the thermostat fan switch on “auto.” For additional savings, raise your thermostat to 82 degrees or warmer when you’re away from home.
• Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically and maximize your energy savings.
• Clean or replace your air conditioner’s filter monthly to trim your cooling costs.
• Turn off your ceiling fan when you leave the room. A fan that runs constantly can cost up to $7 a month depending on size and age.
• Avoid pre-rinsing dishes before putting in dishwasher. It can save nearly $6 a month.
• Limit the time you run your pool pump to six hours a day in summer and four a day in winter.
• Adjust the water level on your washing machine to match the load size, especially when using hot water. Always use a cold rinse.
• Clean the lint filter in your dryer before every load to dry your clothes faster and save money.
• Use the auto sensor function on your dryer, if you have one, to conserve energy by not over-drying your clothes.

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