New Realtor success school to begin

Real estate agents that are newly licensed or those who find themselves in a business rut should consider signing up with Watson Realty Corp. this month. Our exclusive success school will begin again on October 20th.

The instructors have decades of combined experience and consist of the Central Florida Watson management staff.

Email or call me to receive the school's upcoming agenda. I would love to speak with you about a career with Watson Realty Corp.


Related Florida real estate views:

You don't know what you don't know about selling real estate!

Real estate sales success school starts again

Watson Realty success school is well attended


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

PROPOPOLY™ real estate blogs

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has launched a new blogging service that describes itself as being hands free.

PROPOPOLY offers it's members an easy way to blog via email or voicemail.

Related Florida real estate views:

Will my attending Blog Orlando help sell your home?

Small percentage of Florida Realtors blog

Imagine an entire real estate office blogging


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Selling a home fully furnished

There are over 3000 homes listed in the MLS for sale described as being furnished. Is selling a furnished home a good idea?

A furnished home often includes, furniture, linens, dishes and decorations. Selling a furnished home can provide an advantage when selling a vacation or home zoned for short term rental.

On the other hand selling a furnished home to a move up buyer or first time home buyer may cause problems as these types of buyers either have their own furniture already or look forward to purchasing the furnishings they need to make the home theirs.

Each situation will be different. Email or call me to discuss the best way to sell your home.

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When buying a home with personal property, be specific.

If you want to sell your home fast

Sellers work to make their home more attractive to buyers


Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

If you want to sell your home fast

There are steps you can take that will increase the chances of selling your home fast.

• Price the home at the current market value
• Monitor the market and adjust your price quickly when market dictates
• Eliminate clutter and clean thoroughly
• Make sure the home can be easily viewed by interested buyers
• Offer incentives and/or concessions.

Taking these steps along the marketing and prospecting efforts of the listing agent will help sell your home fast, even in this market!

Call or email me to sell your home fast.

Related Florida real estate views:

Why won't anyone buy my house?

Will my attending Blog Orlando help sell your home?

Sellers work to make their home more attractive to buyers

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Why won't anyone buy my house?

With thousands of homes for sale in Florida, many home owners are probably asking the same thing. Frustrated and anxious to move on home owners seek real answers to "Why won't anyone buy my house?"

The current real estate market affords no room for error when selling a home. The difference between finding a buyer for you house and not can be the result of:

• Your homes initial list price
• The pricing strategy used during the course of the listing
• Price enhancements and incentives offered to home buyers
• The marketing efforts used to attract a buyer
• Aggressive prospecting to procure a buyer
• Your home's location and area market conditions

Why no one will buy your home can be traced to all or part of the above reasons. If you are thinking of selling your home email me to discuss how we can work together to find a buyer for your house.

Related Florida real estate views:

Sellers work to make their home more attractive to buyers

What do banks know that home sellers do not?

Sellers are going the extra mile to help sell their home

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Renters may benefit from falling home prices

Home prices rose so fast a few years back that many potential home buyers were priced out of the market quickly.

The turn around in the market now makes owning a home more of an affordable option. Those individuals who ended up renting when prices were going sky high may want to consider taking another look at the housing possibilities available to them.

To find out if now is the right time for you to stop renting and start buying your own home, email or call me.


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Can I afford to buy a home?

Owner will assist with closing cost

Buying a home subject to financing


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Do you think buying a house at this time is a good idea?

Is buying a house at this time a good idea? Many people are asking this same question. The last few years have created a situation where buying a house has not been an easy decision. Is the decision getting any easier? Perhaps.

The decision to buy a house will first and foremost be a personal decision that depends on the situation of the potential home buyer. A new job, a need to relocate, an addition to the family, a desire to downsize or lifestyle change are all factors that may create a real need to buy a house now.

If you are in one of those types of situations then yes, now is a good time to buy a house. Tax credits, low interest rates, dropping home prices and huge inventories make this a very good time to buy a house.

Email me to discuss if buying a house now is the right time for you.


Related Florida real estate views:

First time home buyers in Florida incentives

Home buyers choose 3 bedroom - 2 bath homes

Can I afford to buy a home?


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Orlando housing prices

Orlando housing prices:

• $200,000 median sales price in August 2008


• $208,000 in July 2008


• $244,000 August 2007

These numbers are as reported by the Orlando real estate association.

The Orlando housing prices are good news for home buyers thinking of purchasing a home. Email me to receive a free list of houses in your price range.

Related Florida real estate views:

Orlando ranks as top 20 city

Lower your home price and it will sell faster

Orlando housing and market conditions

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Florida housing prices

Florida housing prices continue to adjust according to information obtained from the Florida real estate association website. Median sales housing prices as reported are:

• $186,900 - Aug, 2008
• $234,100 - Aug, 2007
• $163,600 - Aug, 2003

Email me if you would like to know the value of your home.

Related Florida real estate views:

Sellers work to make their home more attractive to buyers

Lower your home price and it will sell faster

University of Florida reports housing prices hit bottom in July

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Bank owned houses for sale in Florida

Search for houses for sale

In the 5 counties that make up my real estate market, over 6% of the listing inventory are houses for sale in Florida that are bank owned.

Bank owned houses are often some of the best buys available with aggressive pricing attracting buyers looking for the best housing deals.

You can visit the site in this link to search for houses for sale or if you contact me, I will send you a current list of bank owned homes for sale in the are of Florida you are most interested in.

Related Florida real estate views:

Repossessed home inventory

Free foreclosure listings in Orlando

Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Million dollar houses Florida

Where are you most likely to find million dollar houses in Florida? There are over 3500 house listed for sale in Florida priced over a million dollars.

The Florida counties with the majority of these million dollar houses include:

• Sarasota 913
• Charlotte 147
• Hillsborough 452
• Seminole 184
• Lake 123
• Manatee 427
• Orange 742
• Osceola 148
• Volusia 94
• Pinellas 63

Of course you can search for million dollar houses by visiting here. Whe you find a home you are interested in, email me or call to arange a confidential viewing.

Related Florida real estate views:

Multi million dollar Florida real estate

Million dollar neighborhoods in Central Florida

Foreclosures for sale: Million dollar houses

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Will my attending Blog Orlando help sell your home?

I am spending the day at Rollins College attending the Blog Orlando un-conference. Why would a Realtor spend a Saturday listening to presentations about blogging, building blogs and tech stuff? Can any of this help sell your home?

I believe 100% that it can help sell your home. A big part of marketing is product placement and if I can continue to learn how to blog effectively, my blog or blogs should gain traction with the search engines which should translate into visitors who are interested in real estate and once they are here, maybe, possibly they will want to buy a home.

That is the goal anyhow. Make sure my blogs content, design and SEO is proficient to attract interested readers. Selling your home and many others should be the end result.

As an added plus, I am enjoying blog Orlando.

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Blog opinions on Florida Amendment 5

Who is viewing Florida real estate?

Small percentage of Florida Realtors blog


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Millions might miss out on government money from the IRS

According to an IRS press release millions of Americans may miss the opportunity to receive a stimulus payment. The deadline to file their 2007 tax is October 15 and is for the estimated 4.3 million retirees and disabled veterans who may be eligible to receive a stimulus payment but who normally don’t file a tax return.

Please contact your accountant or visit the IRS site to determine if you qualify.

Related Florida real estate views:

Mortgage insurance premiums may be tax deductible

$7500 tax credit

President Bush comments on the housing market


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

$7500 tax credit

Search for homes

Have you heard about the $7500 tax credit available to first time home buyers?

If you are thinking of buying a home and would like to find out if you qualify for the tax credit offered to new home buyers, contact me or call me today. This tax credit is only being offered for a limited time.

Related Florida real estate views:

Home buying checklist

First time home buyers in Florida incentives

Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Interior layout features of the home you are buying

I can conduct a detailed search for you that includes finding homes that have an interior layout or feature that you would like your home to have. This detailed search includes finding homes with:

• Separate breakfast room
• Eating space in kitchen
• Formal dining room
• Formal living room
• Great room
• Kitchen/family room combo
• L dining
• Living room/great room
• Living/dining room combo
• Master bedroom
• Open floor plan
• Split bedroom plan
• Volume ceilings

Give me a call or email to find your perfect home.

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Falling Orlando home prices good news for buyers

Multi million dollar Florida real estate

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

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Home buying checklist

Here are a sample of questions you should include in your home buying checklist:

• How long has the home been on the market?
• Has the home had a price reduction?
• What have other homes in the neighborhood sold for?
• Is there a written seller disclosure available?
• Will the seller assist with my closing costs?
• Is the seller leaving the appliances?
• Does the seller have a termite bond?
• Has the seller made any major renovations or repairs recently?

A home buying checklist will include those questions a more. We can help you prepare your home buying check list and show you available homes. Email or call me.

Related Florida real estate views:

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Watson Realty aggressively seeks new home buyers

Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Florida mls rules for short sale listings

Search for homes

The MLS has clearly stated that when a buyer and seller sign a contract to sell a home that has a short sale contingency, the home must be entered as pending in the MLS. Any additional offers on the home must be accepted as back up offers.

The change in the MLS from active to pending must happen in 2 business days.

This rule alerts buyers and agents prior to viewing and writing a contract that the home is already under contract.


Related Florida real estate views:

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Short sale needs bank approval

Appraisals + short sales = no sale

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

First time home buyers in Florida incentives

Search for a home

First time home buyers in Florida who are are need of buying a house, want to buy a house or are thinking about buying a house should give special consideration to the tax credit now available for a limited time to first time home buyers.

Considering the advantages of this financial incentive of a tax credit up to $7500, this may very well be the right time for a first time home buyer to purchase a home.

To discuss your personal situation and find out more about the new home buyer tax credit, contact me or call 407-304-0255.

Related Florida real estate views:

Home buyers choose 3 bedroom - 2 bath homes

Watson Realty aggressively seeks new home buyers

Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Orlando ranks as top 20 city

While the Orlando/Kissimmee area did not rank as high as last year, The Milken Institute still reports Orlando as the 11th best city for the creation, retention and quality of jobs.

Related Florida real estate views:

Falling Orlando home prices good news for buyers

University of Florida reports housing prices hit bottom in July

What do consumers want to know prior to relocating?


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Homes for sale with 100 acres or more

Room to roam takes on a whole new meaning when you purchase a home with 100 acres or more in Central Florida.

Currently there are 12 homes for sale in the MLS with acreage from 100 to over 500 acres. These huge property estates are priced between $2.1 - $11 million.

They each offer their own characteristics including:

• Breathtaking views
• Horse trails
• Fenced and cross fenced
• Stocked ponds
• Lake front
• Pasture land

Are you looking for a home with a lot of land? Email me or call 407-304-0255 to receive information about available property.

Related Florida real estate views:

What does a 5 bedroom home cost?

Get a survey when buying a home or property

How much for a home on 10 acres?

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

I want a home on the golf course.

Are you a golf lover and would love to own a home on the golf course or in a golf community? Perhaps you have heard that property values are decreasing and now offers an excellent opportunity for you to buy a home on the golf course of your choice.

Golf course homes are definitely being offered for sale and prices better than have been seen in years. There is a large inventory of golf course homes currently for sale in Central Florida. When looking at the inventory as of today in my 5 county market area I have found that;

• Lake has 870 golf community homes for sale
• Orange has 1041
• Osceola has 707
• Seminole has 358
• Volusia has 189

This huge selection is to your benefit. If you would like to see if there are homes for sale in a golf community you are interested in, email or call me.

Related Florida real estate view:

Alaqua real estate

Wedgefield golf community in Orlando

Stoneybrook golf community in Orlando

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Real estate closings are in the hands of the banks

According to recent reports over 31% of homes that have received a contract in Seminole, Orange, Osceola, Lake and portions of Volusia county are contingent upon 3rd party approval. Failure to obtain the lender's approval and not being able to close the transaction will weaken an already weak real estate market.

Subject to 3rd party approval most often indicates a short sale situation. With 1437 of the 4583 reported pended business in the MLS subject to 3rd party, Realtors, sellers and buyers continue to have good reason to be nervous.

Related Florida real estate views:

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University of Florida reports housing prices hit bottom in July


- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Top 10 condo markets

Which Central Florida county has seen the largest number of condos sell during 2008? Here are the latest statistics covering January 1, 2008 up to September 21, 2008.

1. Sarasota 943
2. Hillsborough 833
3. Orange 775
4. Manatee 513
5. Seminole 197
6. Charlotte 197
7. Osceola 146
8. Polk 120
9. Pinellas 117
10. West Volusia 91

If you would like detailed information about a specific county condo sales or are interested in selling or purchasing a condo, email me today.

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Condominium addendum and condo documents

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

More people moving to Florida than moving away

According to a study conducted by Mayflower Transit.

The study reports that employment issues are the main reason people are moving. The Mayflower study showed that of the 9,792 Florida moves they were involved with, 51% were those people relocating to Florida.

If you are planning a move to or from Florida, email me to take advantage of our number 1 relocation service.

Related Florida real estate views:

Why do we move from house to house?

What do consumers want to know prior to relocating?

Watson Realty Corp. Earns Achievement Award

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Short sale needs bank approval

Search for homes

Buyers and sellers entering into a contract for a home that is subject to a short sale need to be aware that the transaction will require the seller's lender approval. The lender will have the right to approve:

• Purchase price
• Terms of the contract
• HUD statement

In the short sale process the bank or lender must agree to take a payoff from the seller that is less than is owed. This process can take time. Both parties will need to exercise patience and the lender processes the request.

If you are facing a short sale situation it is best to use the services of a full time real estate professional to assist you with the selling of your home. Give me a call at or email me to discuss your specific situation.

Related Florida real estate views:

Appraisal problems add to the frustration

Real estate agents would be wise to pick short sales over long sales.

Negotiating a short sale with the lender

- Greg Staker - 407-304-0255

Home buyers choose 3 bedroom - 2 bath homes

MLS statistics show that home buyers purchasing homes in Osceola, Lake, West Volusia, Seminole and Orange County purchase 3 bedroom & 2 bath homes more than any other bedroom/bath combination.

The top 10 bedroom/bath combination sold thus far in 2008 are:

1. 3 bedroom & 2 bath - 4,587
2. 4 bedroom & 2 bath - 2,297
3. 4 bedroom & 3 bath - 1,536
4. 2 bedroom & 2 bath - 504
5. 3 bedroom & 1 bath - 423
6. 2 bedroom & 1 bath - 349
7. 4 bedroom & 4 bath - 247
8. 3 bedroom & 3 bath - 173
9. 5 bedroom & 2 bath - 102
10. 1 bedroom & 1 bath - 19

Email me if you would like to receive a list of homes with the amount of bedrooms and baths you desire.

Related Florida real estate views:

How do I buy a foreclosure?

What does it mean to buy a house as is?

Direct mail campaign for first time home buyers

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

Florida passes on overpriced land deal

Rarely would a buyer pay more than a property appraised for and this holds true even when the buyer is the State of Florida.

The Florida Department of Financial Services decided not to spend 38 million on a parcel of land that only appraised at 28 million.

Read the full release.


Related Florida real estate view:

This home “won’t last” is now at 612 days and counting

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Get a survey when buying a home or property


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

Florida receives grant to assist with computer and Internet access

HUD awarded Florida $150,000 to use for computers and Internet access for public housing residents. Details of the portion of the grant awarded to Florida can be read here.

The communities receiving the grant should:

• Help individuals to become computer savvy
• Help with finding employment
• Help with homework

The centers receiving the grant offer a variety of services to help residents achieve

• Long-term economic self-sufficiency
• Allow the housing authorities to hire staff to manage center activities or purchase equipment for the center.

Related Florida real estate views:

FDIC warns against mortgage fraud

HUD is coming to a theater near you

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

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

How do I buy a foreclosure?

We invite you to find out by attending a FREE "how to" buy a foreclosure workshop.

When:
Friday, October 24th
Time:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where:
Watson Realty
1950 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy
Kissimmee, Fl. 34744
(192, across from Silver Spurs Arena)

Please email or call me to reserve a seat.


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Stop in for a free list of foreclosures

Foreclosures for sale: Million dollar houses


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

What does a 5 bedroom home cost?

Where are the majority of homes for sale that are at least 5 bedrooms in Central Florida and what can you expect to pay? Here is the latest market report of homes with at least 5 bedrooms for sale in Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and West Volusia.

• Lake has over 340 - 5+ bedroom homes for sale priced between $65,000 - $9.7 million.
• You will find over 1,420 - 5+ bedroom homes for sale in Orange County priced between $73,000 - over $13 million.
• Right now there are 602 homes for sale with a least 5 bedrooms in Osceola. Their prices run from $65,000 to 44.7 million.
• Seminole County has 454 homes for sale priced between $99,000 and $9.7 million
• West Volusia has 167 - 5 bedroom or more homes for sale in the $119,000 up to $8.5 million range.

The inventory chances daily so if you are interested in knowing what is for sale TODAY, email or call me.

Related Florida real estate views:

Watson Realty aggressively seeks new home buyers

Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?

Have a home inspection before buying

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

Supreme Court knocks amendment 5 off the ballot

From the decision:

The trial court ultimately held that the title and summary of proposed Amendment 5 did not fairly inform voters, in clear and unambiguous language, of the chief purposes of the amendment and ordered proposed Amendment 5 to be removed from the November 2008 general election ballot.

Related Florida real estate views:

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Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?


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

Watson Realty aggressively seeks new home buyers

The agents of Watson Realty Corp. are not content with simply waiting for the Florida real estate market to improve. A major direct mail campaign is being followed up with calls to all the recipients of the postcard announcing the $7500 tax credit.

Over the next 3 months our agents will be phoning those customers that have been targeted to receive the postcard making sure they did receive it and answering any questions that the customer may have about the tax credit program and buying a home.

This proactive approach will help to inform and educate potential home buyers as to why may in fact be a good time to purchase a home. It can be a win-win for future home buyers and our current and future home sellers as we aggressively seek out buyers for their homes.

If you would like more information on how Watson Realty can help you buy or sell a home, call or email me.

Related Florida real estate views:

Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?

Direct mail campaign for first time home buyers

Can I afford to buy a home?

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

Do I qualify for a first time home buyer tax credit?

For a limited time there is up to $7500 tax credit available for first time home buyers.

To qualify as a first time home buyer you must not have owned a home as your principal residence during the past three years.

To take advantage of this tax credit, contact me to get pre-qualified for a home loan.

Related Florida real estate views:

Direct mail campaign for first time home buyers

Can I afford to buy a home?

Builders confident buyers will take advantage of tax credit


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

What does it mean to buy a house as is?

Buying a home as is would mean in part that you are willing to purchase the property in the condition seen or unseen.

We strongly suggest that if you are willing to buy a home as it, you should add the contingency that you are buying it as is with the right to inspect. This will provide you an avenue to get out of the contract should you discover conditions that you did not readily see or were made aware of.

Related Florida real estate views:

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Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?


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

Small Business Administration offers real estate disaster loans

Home Disaster Loans

• Homeowners or Renters
• Repair or replace damaged real estate or personal property

Additional information:
SBA Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center
(800) 659-2955
disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance

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FEMA disaster center located in Sanford

Seminole County grants and low interest loans available for Tropical Storm damage

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


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

Repossessed home inventory

Homes that have been repossessed or foreclosed on by the mortgage lender make up a significant portion of the active home inventory for sale in Central Florida. Inventory totals for the 5 Central Florida counties in my market show the total number of bank owned homes as of today.

• Lake County - 246
• Orange - 600
• Osceola - 403
• Seminole - 141
• West Volusia - 210

To receive a free list of these repossessed homes for sale in your area, contact me.

Related Florida real estate views:

Have a home inspection before buying

Can I afford to buy a home?

Owner will assist with closing cost

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

Sellers work to make their home more attractive to buyers

Home sellers have more competition than ever before as they attempt to sell their home, Record home for sale inventories in Central Florida give buyers more choices of homes in the same price range, size and location.

We encourage sellers to stage, paint, clean and do everything possible to put their home in the best light for prospective buyers. Are they following our suggestion?

There are 35,746 homes for sale in Central Florida and out of those:

• 1,006 are listed are described as freshly painted, new paint, newly painted or fresh paint
• 708 are described as either having new carpet or carpet cleaned
• 649 are clean ( 5 are so clean that the term Mr. Clean lives here is used)

Sellers need to be aware that they may only have 1 chance to impress a buyer viewing their home. Fresh paint and a clean and neat house will help you in the long run to sell your home.

Related Florida real estate views:

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

Lower your home price and it will sell faster

We have been advising sellers of this for over 2 years now. The recent Orlando Realtor statistics appear to prove this point.

Home prices in August fail by nearly 4 % when compared to July and so did the average days on the market. Homes are now staying on the market 113 days until sold.

Related Florida real estate views:

University of Florida reports housing prices hit bottom in July

I am not going to give my home away!

You may be able to walk across the US faster than you can sell your Orlando area home.


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

Falling Orlando home prices good news for buyers

The Orlando Regional Realtor Association (ORRA) released a market report for August showing the median sales price in Orlando has dropped to $200,000. This is down from the $208,000 reported in July.

Buyers with the median income for Orlando ($51,991) now have nearly 10,000 homes on the market that their income qualifies them for.

To get a list of these homes, call me.

Related Florida real estate views:

Search for homes that offer racquet ball facilities

Stop in for a free list of foreclosures

Luxury kitchen real estate features


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

Vote for Wendell Davis as your 2009 Florida Association of Realtor's President

Wendell Davis has proven leadership; ability to build consensus; a commitment to complete truthfulness; hard work and diligent service to the organization and the public it serves; and the utmost integrity are what he brings to the table and why he is the right choice for
Florida Association of Realtors President Elect, 2009.

Related Florida real estate views:

Blog opinions on Florida Amendment 5

Small percentage of Florida Realtors blog

Positioning ourselves for real estate success in the years ahead

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

Multi million dollar Florida real estate

What fun features can you expect when viewing multi million dollar real estate for sale in Florida?

• Indoor basketball court
• Poker room
• Home theater
• Boat house
• DJ booth & dance floor
• Fully equipped gym
• Pizza oven
• Sand volley ball court
• Horse track

Those are just some of the "fun" items that you can find in a multi million dollar home for sale in Florida.

Related Florida real estate views:

Luxury kitchen real estate features

Million dollar neighborhoods in Central Florida

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

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

Have a home inspection before buying

As Realtors we cannot offer a professional opinion as to the condition of a home or property. The seller of a home or property may provide a disclosure to potential buyers detailing any material facts that affect the home.

Even when a buyer receives a disclosure from a seller, we strongly encourage the buyer to hire a professional to inspect the home or property on their behalf. Failure on the buyer's part to get a home inspection places the buyer at a risk that they should seek to avoid.

To obtain additional information about purchasing a home, give me a call.

Related Florida real estate views:

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

Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?

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


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

Orlando pet owners FREE rabies vaccine

Pet Amnesty Day

Saturday, September 13th

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Cypress Grove Park.

290 Holden Ave. Orlando, FL 32839

Orange County Animal Services is providing this free service. Call (407) 836-3111 for more info.

Related Florida real estate views:

The house cat only rings twice

Buy a home near a dog park

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

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

Search for homes that offer racquet ball facilities

Does your active lifestyle include playing racquet ball? You may be please to find out that I can narrow down my home search to only include homes and condos where there are racquet ball facilities available to the home owner.

Right now there are over 1100 properties for sale in Central Florida offering racquet ball as a feature of the community.

If you perfect home involves more than bedrooms and baths, give me a call. I can help you find a home with the features you desire.

Related Florida real estate views:

Need another reason to move to Orlando? How about badminton tournaments?

I went searching for a bank and found a Neopet

Is sailing your passion? We may have a home for you.


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

Florida real estate sellers disclosure form

Search for homes

A Florida real estate sellers disclosure form should include information on the following:

• What the house is constructed of. Brick? Block? Frame?
• Association disclosures.
• Legal actions against the property.
• Information on boundaries, encroachments and easements.
• Are there any environmental or land issues?
• Structure issues? Wood rot? Termites? Foundation issues?
• How is the roof?
• Any issues with the plumbing?
• Condition or updates to the electrical and heating/air systems.
• Water penetration problems or sink holes?

A seller should disclose to potential buyers all material facts that affect the property. We offer our sellers a form that allows them to list the conditions of the home for a buyers review.

Make sure you contact me prior to selling or buying a home.

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

Trade in your old house for a new one

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) discusses a new angle home builders are trying to entice us to buy a new home. According to the BBB article, builders are offering deals that allow you to trade in our existing home for a new one.

The article details the need for interested home owners to:

• Deal with a reputable builder
• Make sure you understand the market
• Examine the financing
• Have someone review the contracts

This is a good article to read and it even comes with a short video.

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

Sen. Barack Obama views on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac bailout

Sen. Barack Obama discusses Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac on CNN video.





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

Direct mail campaign for first time home buyers

We will be starting a direct mail campaign in hopes of reaching first time home buyers who may be thinking of buying a home now. The campaign will be highlighting the $7500 tax credit available for a limited time. The postcards will contain the following information.

1. Attention Potential 1st time home buyers! Take advantage of the government limited $7500 tax credit incentive! FHA, VA, and CONVENTIONAL Home Loans are STILL AVAILABLE for a limited time to first time home buyers under the Federal Government's new Tax Credit Incentive! Plus, minimum down loan programs available to qualified buyers!
2. Time is running out... Limited $7500 tax credit still available to 1st time home buyers! Why rent when you can own your own home? It's true. The Federal Government’s limited Tax Credit Incentive to 1st Time Home buyers will not last forever and most likely will never be repeated. Don't miss out on this chance of a lifetime to experience the American Dream of Home ownership! Why rent when you can purchase a home of your own?
3. Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers... The limited $7500 tax credit for 1st time home buyers won't last forever! This special Government Incentive for 1st Time Home buyers will be over before you know it and this very well could be your last chance to purchase a home of your own through a government-sponsored program that enables you to take advantage of low prices and low interest rates. The American Dream of home ownership is more than just a dream… it's here for you today!

This special promotion will surely attract those home buyers that are on the fence deciding if they should buy. Our current and future sellers will benefit as well as we attract these new buyers into the market place.

This is just one more reason to choose Watson Realty Corp.

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

FEMA disaster center located in Sanford

FEMA has staffed a disaster center in Sanford for those Seminole County residents affected by Tropical Storm Fay.

Here is the press release offering additional information and the location is,

Reflections at Hidden Lakes
520 W. Lake Mary Blvd.
Suite 101
Sanford 32773


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

Why do we move from house to house?

Statistics compiled by Geographical Mobility: 2007 dealing with people who move in this country listed the following reasons according to the US Census Bureau:

• The desire to own a home
• Wanting to live in a different neighborhood
• Family reasons
• Job issues

Interestingly, 52% of those who moved to the US from out of the country did so for employment.

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International relocation

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

If you moved you probably did not move to far

A US census press release reported that of the people who moved during 2006 and 2007 , the majority of those moved to a location within the same county.

38.7 million people moved in the United States and 25.2 million stayed in the same county.

If you are planning a move anywhere in Orange, Volusia, Seminole, Orange, Lake or surrounding counties give me a call and I will find you the right property in your county.

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

Stop in for a free list of foreclosures

Reader board vs the internet.

I put this sign up this afternoon prior to leaving the office. 30 minutes or so after it went up we had someone stop in asking for the free list.

So now that I have the same message on this blog, which will bring the most inquiries? Reader board or internet?

If you would like a free list of foreclosures, call or email me. The clock starts now.

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

Appraisal problems add to the frustration

Over the past 2 weeks I have had a number of agents stop in my office to discuss a similar issue. Appraisal problems hindering or killing their deals.

We have had appraisals that come in below the contract price or we have appraisals that come in at full value only to be found unacceptable by the lender's underwriter. In one case, the appraisal came in lower than the bank agreed upon short sale amount!

Our agents are now cautioning sellers that simply being able to obtain a buyer at the seller's asking price does not automatically equal a sale. Until home prices finally hit rock bottom and start inching back up, waiting on appraisals will be a nerve racking experience.


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

22 million people visit Florida

According to a report released by VISIT FLORIDA; 22 million people visited Florida during the 2nd quarter of 2008.

This was increase over the same time period last year. Other highlights of the report include:

• International visitors increased by 8%
• Canadian visitors increased by 5.1%

Aggressive marketing was cited as a reason for the increase in visitors.

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

Luxury kitchen real estate features

Kitchen features and trends that luxury home buyers are becoming interested in include pot fillers. Pot fillers are convenient for those chefs who would rather not carry large pots of water from the sink to the stove.

A recent search of homes for sale in Central Florida reveal that there are homes priced from just under $400K and up that offer this kitchen luxury feature.


Give me a call and let me find you a luxury home with all the features you expect.


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

Is sailing your passion? We may have a home for you.

Recreational sailors will be pleased to discover that I can narrow down my home search to locate property that will allow them enjoy their past time by simply stepping out of their home.

As of this post there are several homes in Central Florida that indicate they are on water suitable for sailing! Prices run to $1.1 million.

If you want to plot your home buying course in a direction that will lead you to a home where you can also enjoy sailing, call or email me to receive a list of available property matching your price and location criteria.


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

Should you include your personal property with your home sale?

It is not uncommon for a seller to leave personal property when they sell their home. Sellers will often leave stoves, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, curtains and drapes with the buyer as part of the sale. A buyer may be more motivated to buy your home over another if there are personal items.

If you are planning on leaving personal property:

• Itemize all items that you plan to leave and provide interested buyers with a written inventory.
• If you plan to exclude a specific item, make sure the exclusion is noted on the purchase agreement between you and the buyer.

Including personal property with your home sale may help you sell your home but it can definitely stop a sale if not handled properly. Part of our services when listing your home is to assist you with handling the details. Call or email me to help sell your home.

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

Can I afford to buy a home?

Now that the government has passed a bill that allows for a $7500 tax credit for first time home buyers, many of these potential home buyers are curious if they can afford to buy a home.

I would like to invite everyone who is wondering if they can afford to buy a home, to call or email me for a private consultation. This consultation is free and will allow you the opportunity to speak with a mortgage lender without having to feel obligated.

Finding out if you can afford to buy a home involves calculating your gross income including any salaries, commissions or bonuses. The next step is to total up your monthly debt. Credit cards, car payments, child support, student loans and alimony are all monthly obligations that will affect the amount of house payment you will be able to pay.

The amount left for a house payment will help the lender determine how much of a home loan you qualify for. They will consider credit issues and other circumstances to determine the rate and terms they can offer you.

Give me a call to find out if you can afford to buy a home. My service is free.

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

Million dollar homes for sale in Orlando

There are approximately 230 million dollar homes for sale in Orlando as of September 1. You can go here to search for million dollar property for sale.

Of the 230 million dollar property listed:

• 44 were built in 2008
• 6 have at least 5 acres
• 95 have water frontage
• 13 are condos
• 149 have at lease a 3 car garage
• 184 have a fireplace
• 4 have an Infinity Edge pool

If you would like I can mail you a complete list of available homes with pictures and virtual tours. Email or call me.

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

Seminole County grants and low interest loans available for Tropical Storm damage

Seminole County has received a declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Individual and Public Assistance for homeowners and public facilities affected by Tropical Storm Fay. Please call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to apply for federal assistance.

Complete announcement


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

Kissimmee real estate market overview

The following is a view of the Kissimmee real estate market as of September 1, 2008.

• Number of homes for sale in the MLS - 4,517
• Homes priced at or below $200K - 2,772
• Homes priced over 1 million - 20
• Condos for listed for sale - 636
• Homes sold this year - 1,213

Home sales are down from the same time last year. Inventory remains high. Short sale and REO listings are increasing and becoming an affordable choice in some cases to the home buyer looking to purchase a home in Kissimmee. The $7500 first time home buyer tax credit coupled with lowering home prices should equal more first time home buyer sales in the months ahead.

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

Kissimmee REO 40% of August home sales

Early reports for the Mid-Florida MLS indicate that 62 0f the 152 or approximately 40% of the reported sales in Kissimmee for August were bank owned or REO property.

REO sales should continue to make up a significant portion of the future sales in Kissimmee as 10% of the current listing inventory for sale are reported as being bank owned.

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

Help Wanted - College students

Volusia County Schools is looking for college students who are interested in tutoring high school students as part of a program to prepare high school students for eligibility and success in four-year colleges and universities.

Schools offering the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Program:

• Atlantic High
• Mainland High
• DeLand High
• Taylor Middle/High
• Deltona High
• Pine Ridge High
• New Smyrna Beach High

Pay for this part time tutoring position is $8.00 an hour.

Individuals interested in applying should contact Sue Canning, AVID/VPK Project Manager at 386-255-6475, ext. 60151 or email scanning@volusia.k12.fl.us . Applicants can go directly to www.volusia.k12.fl.us/AVID/ and click on "AVID Tutor Application".

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