Avalon Residents See Dollar Signs

Did you happen to stop by any of the homes participating in the huge Avalon Park Community Yard Sale last Saturday?  If not, you missed a great event!  It was my first time and I was very impressed with the quality of the items for sale and all of the homeowners were so nice.  Our community was well represented. 

Hats off to Chris and all those who helped to make this event a great one for the participants and attendees.  With over 80 families participating, those I spoke with all agreed that people began to come by around 8am (a few earlier than that) and most saw a steady stream all the way through the end at noon. 

Lori on Fern Marsh has been participating for the past seven years and says that “it is always a great event” for her.  Lori is known for the quality of the items she places in the yard sale and has developed “regulars” who make sure they stop by to see her and her items each year.  Janice on Cassia has done this for two years now and was pleased with the turnout; she said the “flyer was impressive and the map was great”.  Mary on Lake Live Oak was participating for the first time this year and also was amazed at the traffic. Shannon on Red Buckeye commented that “this is the only way to have a garage sale”.  By the way, Shannon used bright colored directional signs that brought me directly to her home — they were easy to spot and positioned well. Kudos to Shannon!

I ventured to the Bella Vida and Waterford Trails participants to see if they had similar results — luckily for them, they did.  Kathy in Bella Vida said she is from Titusville and has done a lot of yard sales in her life but that this event “has been super”.  Rebekah on Perdido in Waterford Trails was the furthest participant I found (from the entrance off Alafaya).  She too said it had been “very good for them and that they would definitely do it again”.  She noticed some attendees did not know about the community event so she made sure to send them further down Avalon Park Boulevard — thanks Rebekah.

Food for Thought from the participants: I asked each to share how they would improve upon the event.  All agreed that it would be best to separate the day of the Yard Sale from that of the OctoberFest event. They felt the detours may have deterred some attendes from seeing certain homes if they weren’t familiar with Avalon Park and didn’t know how to work their way around the neighborhood.  Many would love to see directional signs or balloons provided as part of the registration fee since not everyone had a map or was aware of the website. 

All in all, I think it was a win-win for everyone.  The homeowners made some dollars and the attendees were happy with the deals they got.  I hope the local businesses were also able to cash-in on the traffic coming through…more on that in my next blog.

Fall In Florida

Ahhh, Fall.  My childhood memories in Ohio are that of beautifully colored leaves falling to the ground and a wonderful coolness in the air usually followed with hayrides and campfires for enjoying smores then usually by Halloween we had our wonderful costumes hidden under our winter coats! Fall in Florida has come to mean other things. Fall is the perfect time to get outside and stroll — yard sales (Avalon’s community event is this weekend), Art Fairs (don’t miss Winter Park’s Art Festival this weekend), outdoor antiquing, biking, the list goes on and on as our family begins to enjoy the season we look forward to all year long! 

What do you like most about Fall in Central Florida?

Octoberfest in Avalon

October 13th from 5pm- 9pm Check out another great event!

Town Center at Avalon Park
Join the community of Avalon Park for a festive, family-friendly evening of dance, games, music, and socializing complete with a keg-tapping ceremony, alpine hats, a beer stein-holding contest, barrel rolling, a root beer garden, yodeling and more. [407-658-6565; http://www.avalonpark.com]

Hope to see you there!

Looking For A Unique Buyer

I have been fortunate enough to be asked to market this unique property in Christmas, Florida.  Not too many people know of Christmas…it is an unincorporated portion of Orange County; a natural setting where most homes have the luxury of one or more acres of land (something that will become much more valuable as available land dwindles).

This home is absolutely perfect for the executive who loves to entertain. The floor plan is open and flowing, providing many spaces for gathering.  Take a moment to check it out:  http://www.selbyrealestate.net/reindeer.htm

If you know of someone looking for room to stretch out (both inside and out), please pass this link along to them. I know there is a person out there who would love to live in this house!  I can’t wait for them to see it and make it their own.

The Mortgage Market and You

Looks like a number of buyers are feeling more like Chicken Little these days!  It’s practically impossible to avoid the doom and gloom “sky is falling” portrayed on the news about both the mortgage and housing industries. Granted, the Mortgage Industry is in an active state of transition; which, after speaking with several industry professionals over the past few weeks, seems to be a good thing for the industry!  Buyers are worried about where this shake out will actually leave them.  The consensus from these experts is that most buyers will be fine, however there should be a greater sense of urgency to lock in your loan as soon as possible.  Today’s rates and terms may change as of tomorrow.

The real estate market is very localized so you cannot rely on media to provide you with all the facts. While prices may be taking a nose dive in some subdivisions or even zip codes, others are actually not fluctuating that much.  You need to find a Realtor who is well educated on the market in which you wish to live. That Realtor can discuss the trends and negotiate the best deal now.  If you are looking at home ownership as a long term investment, this market can be a positive one for you.

The entire real estate purchase transaction remains a very personal one — driven by you!  The purchase price, terms negotiated, loan chosen…all of these are unique to you.  Are there good loans out there?  The experts say “Yes!”  Are there good deals on homes out there?  “Yes!”  Is now a good time to buy?  “Yes!”

So if you are serious about buying a home in the foreseeable future, consult with industry experts who can guide you through every step of the process.  If you don’t know a reputable mortgage planner and have fears about choosing one, simply email me at debrahorowitz@selbyrealestate.net.   We work with a number of reputable mortgage planners who can help you achieve your goals.  Before you put your dream on hold, at least meet with us and get all your questions answered; you’ll get information and advice with no obligation on your part!  See, there are some good deals out there…

East Orlando Employment

Mr. Beat Kahli, Publisher of the East Orlando Sun, had an interesting editorial this week. In his article, Mr. Kahli references a book entitled, Today’s Hot Job Targets, that ranks Orlando as No. 2 in the U.S. for job opportunities.  This is good news but, it gets better!  There are more opportunities on the horizon. Mr. Kahli goes on to point out the job prospects due to the Burnham Institute, the VA hospital, the University of Central Florida’s College of Medicine and the UCF Technology Incubator. Each will help attract more employees to our area. 

How does this affect real estate?  Real estate is local.  It can be as narrow as a subdivision, a zip code, or a defined area such as East Orlando.  Real estate prices go hand-in-hand with job opportunities.  When the  local economy sustains a mix of job levels (hourly, blue collar, white collar), it helps to keep property values higher. I agree with Mr. Kahli that these businesses along with those who currently sustain us, will no-doubt bring a rise to property values in East Orlando! 

Economic indications for us are good! The Orlando unemployment rate is at 3.4% (one of the lowest in the country), and we continue to have an influx of people relocating to this area to work and raise a family.

For those buyers looking at real estate as a long term investment, it makes sense to consider a home in East Orlando.

As always, I welcome your comments and feedback!

Buying versus Renting

This is a buyer’s market yet many people do not believe they can achieve the American dream.  Granted, not everyone is able to go out a buy a home tomorrow.  However, with planning and determination your dreams can become a reality. 

I’m so excited to be partnering with John Balauat, Mortgage Planner, on a series of free seminars devoted to educating people on why it makes sense to buy versus rent. 

We held our first of the series this week at the Orange County Library Alafaya Branch.  The group was small which allowed for great interaction.  John’s presentation included discussion on

ü      The True Cost of Renting

ü      The Tax Advantages of Home Ownership

ü      The True Facts About the Housing Market

ü      The Difference Homeownership Can Make on Your Overall Net Worth!

ü      How to Raise Your Credit Score 100 Points in 45 Days!

John told the audience a story of a single mom he had helped obtain a home mortgage — the “right” mortgage for her so she can build many happy memories with her children in this home.  She was not aware that she could even qualify for a mortgage.  His point was that many people believe the myths without ever taking a moment to speak to a professional.  If you take the time to seek out the right professional, they can put you on a path to achieving the goal.

Our goal is public education on the home buying process.  We will be conducting two free seminars each month for the remainder of the year.  Feel free to learn more about our upcoming events. Or feel free to contact John or I directly to set up a free consultation.  We are here to help!

Tips to help you Sell Your Home

Today’s blog is courtesy of a guest blogger, a dynamic lady who has a depth of knowledge in the business of real estate sales, interior design and staging — Ms. Kim Hiltbrand, owner of Design Resolution in Longwood, Florida.  Kim’s expertise has been of extreme value to home sellers and I encourage you to contact her or I for additional information.  Please read on…

As the market becomes more challenging, it is more important than ever to make your home listing stand out from the others. Home staging is a great tool that presents properties in their best light. Statistics show that staged homes sell faster and have fewer price negotiations than homes that aren’t staged. Professional stagers view the property through buyers’ eyes to determine which features should be highlighted and which areas need to be minimized.

All staging professionals should consult with the listing agent prior to visiting the homeowner to determine the realtors’ concerns and to incorporate them into the staging process. After viewing the home, a detailed report should be prepared outlining tasks and improvements for each specific area. This gives the homeowner the opportunity to perform some or all of the work themselves.

Because each home is unique, costs for staging vary. If furnishings are necessary, the terms are usually in one month increments with pick up and delivery included in the price. Many times, staging can be done using items the homeowner already owns, which can also reduce the cost. Whatever the cost, it is a given, home staging is cheaper than your first price reduction if the house doesn’t sell.
Buyers have come to expect more than ever before when looking for a home. Make your listings stand out from all the others by using a professional home stager.   —Kim Hiltbrand

Given what we have seen in the current market, there is huge value in what she says.  If a homebuyer is truly serious about selling, implementing the suggestions that a stager makes can literally make a huge difference regarding how long your home is on the market and how high of a price you can garner.  Just take a look at the before and after pictures to get a better idea! For more information or to speak to Kim or I, please call me at 407-482-8225 or email me at debrahorowitz@selbyrealestate.net.       

Before After                  

   Dining Elegance                       

 

Practical Tips for Buyers

A positive real estate transaction starts with the selection of the right agent for you.  Whether you are a first time home buyer or purchasing your tenth home, you need an agent who can deliver what you specifically need!  Here are some tips to help you select the right resource:

First Time Home Buyers

Interview the real estate agent to determine how available they are to work with you –

how much time can they schedule to take you house hunting,

how accessible are they when you call, what is their guaranteed response time,

will they be present with you for the home inspection,

what resources do they have to offer to you for loan financing, home inspection, home repairs or remodeling;

how well do they understand the area where you wish to move, etc.

Experienced Buyers

The interview is going to look quite different since you have been down this road before.  You know what contracts look like and the basic process, you understand a home inspection report, etc. so why use a Realtor?  In today’s buyers market there are literally tens of thousands of homes available so you need to work with an expert who can help you weed through all the various offerings and determine the top three from which to choose.

Find out how well the Realtor knows the area you are targeting,

what research are they willing to provide for you on this area,

what resources can they bring to the process and how do those resources work with you. 

Then evaluate the deliverables they provide.  In all cases, make sure that you evaluate how they are listening to you  and whether they establish a communication plan with you — before you sign on to work with them.  Seek out the one who operates his/her business in a professional manner — remember this is a huge investment and while it is great that your cousin knows a Realtor, that doesn’t mean that referral is the one you need to work with on this assignment.

Once you have chosen your Realtor, listen to their advice.  You have hired them for a reason so treat them as you would any other professional such as a lawyer, doctor, mechanic, etc.  The experience they bring to you should have value that can contribute to your purchasing process. Listen and ask questions; you and your Realtor should be working as a team.

Finally, get pre-approved for a loan at the onset of your home search; most sellers are requiring that proof of pre-qualification or pre-approval be given at time of offer submission. Don’t delay your placing an offer due to improper planning; get ahead of the game and be ready when that right home comes along!

For additional information, please feel free to give me a call at 407-421-5645 or email me at debrahorowitz@selbyrealestate.net.

East Orlando Transportation Challenges

As any Avalon Park or East Orlando resident knows, the morning and evening commutes can be very trying!  Well, I’m happy to say that Orange County understands our pain.  Attendees were provided a good update today at the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce breakfast.  I’d like to share this recap with you.

EOCC put together a great group of panelists: Mike Snyder with the Expressway Authority, Edward Johnson with Lynx, Renzo Nastasi with Orange County Government and Kelley Teague with Orlando Metroplan.  Each came with their own insight into what is happening with transportation specific to East Orlando. 

Mike Snyder/Expressway Authority talked about the congestion on 408 specifically.  As most of us know the EA has been focusing on reducing traffic on the West side by providing the 192 alternative to those in Apopka; they are also addressing ways to increase traffic flow heading from east to west with the current construction at the I-4 ramps off of 408 (scheduled for completion next year), and with the Lake Underhill bridge which is scheduled for completion in two years.  Also of importance to East Orlando is the 528/Beechline and Alafaya Trail extension; Mike said that the Expressway Authority is ready to move forward with this project as soon as the design plans are finalized — no timeframe but certainly great news nonetheless!

Edward Johnson at Lynx talked about the various programs they have available.  Have you heard of their “Rack and Roll” program?  For bike enthusiasts who need a helping hand getting from point A to point B, Lynx buses offer bike racks so you can take your bike with you rather than lock it up at the bus stop!  What a nice value add!  Lynx has its Road Ranger program designed to assist stranded motorists get back on the road as quickly as possible; should you get a flat tire, look for some assistance from the Road Rangers that patrol the major arteries. A third program that was mentioned is “Access Lynx” which is designed to address the needs of those with disabilites. Unfortunately, Edward didn’t provide a lot of information on this program but I’m sure you can learn more on their website at www.golynx.com. And the last program discussed was the Transportation Benefits program under which falls their Ride Share programs.  Did you know that Lynx provides vans to employers who need to move up to 12 employees from a common residential area to a common work area? This helps provide employers with a tax benefit and employees with a welcome relief from today’s gas prices!  Also, they have a Car Pool database that can match you with people in the area who also desire to reduce the monthly expenses associated with single commuting — consider checking this out!

Renzo Nastasi with Orange County Government spoke about some of the projects currently being worked on for East Orlando such as the widening of Alafaya Trail from Avalon Park south to Mark Twain — it is under design and expected to start late 2008; widening of Woodbury Road to a four lane road is under study and plans are to widen it from Challenger Parkway to Lake Underhill. This should take 4-5 years to complete.  As most of us know, Innovation Corridor is under construction from Avalon Park Boulevard at Alafaya although he didn’t mention a completion time frame and the Interchange is in design phase.

Kelley Teague of Orlando Metroplan discussed how her group is actively working with all of the above agencies to provide a 30,000 foot perspective and a 30 year multi-modal transportation plan that is financially feasible to implement.  This look encompasses mass transit via bus and high speed rail, as well as automobile. Our area is projected to double in number of residents in the next 20 years so the planning they do now is to address the needs for a community of those proportions. 

The question was asked as to how the current property tax debates in Tallahassee will impact the funding of these services. The answer is that should there be any decrease in the tax base, it will impact the implementation of some plans for expansion of current roadways as well as the services provided by Lynx. The extent of the impact remains to be seen.

I walked away from the meeting feeling that this team of experts understand our needs and are doing what they can to set forth plans to address our traffic flow issues.  Now it is up to our state legislature to decide how all of this will play out.