Naples Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.equityrealty.com/blog/Copyright EquityRealty.com2023-01-26T08:07:51-07:00tag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33854PDF Opening with Microsoft Edge after Windows 10 Jan 2016 Update? We Have The FixIt was just another ordinary Wednesday, except when you go to open a PDF document, when you expect the friendly warm red reliability of Adobe Reader - instead, the document opens in card hard blue Microsoft Edge?
In Windows most recent update (Jan 2016) the folks over at Microsoft thought we would prefer to open our PDFs in their new browser.
Lucky for you, this is an easy fix.
Right click on any PDF document and choose Open with > Choose another app
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Select Adobe Reader and be sure to check the box that says Always use this app to open .pdf files
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Done. Now your PDF icons will revert back to the familiar red PDF icon we have come to know and love.
That is the easy answer and easy fix.
However, this speaks to a larger issue. What about the other documents, pictures, music files that you used to open in the old Windows viewer and media player? Since Windows 8 and Windows 10, your images and media files are opening in a full screen app that you cannot control.
Lucky for you, once again, easy fix. You can change all your Default Programs from the Control Panel, here's how.
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Once in the control panel, if it does not look like below, click the View settings in the top right and change to Small Icons
Click Default Programs
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If your desired default program is on the list, select the program and choose Set this program as default
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However, if your desired program is not in this list, like in the example of Adobe Reader which was missing after the update, you must specify what programs open with what file types
To do this, go back to Default Programs, then click Associate a file type or protocol with a program
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Then select the file type you want to specify the default program, in this example, select ".pdf" and then choose Change program...
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Select the desired program and click OK
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You can do this for any typ eof file type, for example, a .jpeg and choose Photo Viewer or .wav and choose Windows Media Player, and so on. 2022-12-01T04:29:00-07:002023-01-26T08:07:51-07:00Eamon Murphytag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:32185Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/getting-a-home-mortgage.jpg" alt="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" title="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" height="410" width="750" /> Potential homebuyers are always cautioned to be aware of mortgage lending standards and the difficulty they might face when trying to obtain a mortgage. Credit availability is expanding, making it easier to get a mortgage now than it was a year ago. The market is still tight however, and homebuyers should be prepared to shop around until they find a lender who is offering something that will meet the needs of their family. Mortgage lending companies have high standards so it is important to make sure you and anyone else who will be included on the mortgage have their credit in check. The mortgage market is strict because lenders do not want to be put in a situation where they are forced to repurchase loans that are not paid on. They also do not want to end up in a litigation situation due to loan issues. What Has Happened to the Number of Mortgages? Due to the strict nature and requirements of the lending companies, the number of mortgages given out has significantly dropped. A report by the Housing Financial Policy Center at the Urban Institute showed that about 6.3 million fewer mortgages were given out between 2009 and 2015. The reasons behind this statistic are strict regulations and policies. These mortgages would have been granted if the lending standards where more reasonable. Mortgage companies rely on calculations to determine if a home buyer will become delinquent on their payment. They will not give you a loan if you are too much of a risk for them. Credit history has a huge impact on this decision since lenders can see how often you pay back your debts. The history they receive is extensive. This view into your financial past causes lenders to take less risk when lending to you for your mortgage. The Effect on the Economy The housing market is recovering at a slower pace than it should since less potential homebuyers are being offered loans. While the market is still recovering with positive trends, fewer buyers can create a strain on other economic factors like home goods or construction jobs. Bottom Line After the housing market boom and bust, mortgage lenders became stricter in their lending standards. It is not impossible to get a mortgage loan, but it can still be difficult for potential home buyers. Stay on top of your credit and make sure you and anyone else who is applying are in a good financial position so you can be approved for a loan. It is important to research different companies and their requirements to ensure success in getting a mortgage.2022-11-01T15:08:39-07:002022-11-01T15:10:45-07:00Tim Ryantag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:32184Why You Should Consider Selling in the Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/selling-in-the-winter-attracts-serious-buyers.jpg" alt="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" title="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" height="410" width="750" /> The season you sell your home can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The season that has the most success in selling homes is spring. This is a good time of year for families moving to new school districts and is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. Avoiding the winter is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities. Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real estate agents also tend to be less busy during these months and commit more time to getting your home sold. Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale. Bottom Line If you need to sell your home right away, or have some time but want to see what is out there, consider listing in the winter. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their home in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring.2022-11-01T15:08:39-07:002022-11-01T15:10:50-07:00Tim Ryantag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:32183Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/3-questions-to-ask-before-buying-your-dream-home.jpg" alt="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" title="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" height="410" width="750" /> It is easy to become overwhelmed when you enter the home buying market. Friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances will give you their opinions if you are a first time home buyer. While most of them are looking out for your best interest, they are not fully aware of what is happening in the housing market. It is important for you to be prepared and have your own questions ready. No matter what other opinions you are getting, you are the one buying the home and your comfort level will help make your final decision. Here are three important questions to ask before you purchase a home. 1. Why am I Buying a Home? Regardless of the finances, it is important to think about what made you want to buy a home in the first place. Usually the reasons don’t have to do with money. Instead, home buyers are focused on how the house will impact their family in the future. A study done by the Joint Center for House Studies at Harvard found there are four reasons people buy a home. Those reasons include schools for your children, a safe environment, more room for your family to grow, and control of your own space. These factors are the most common reasons people look to buy a new home. When you ask yourself why you are looking to purchase a home, do any of those factors come up? Spend time with your spouse or family members who are involved in this decision and determine why you want a home in the first place. Creating this list will help when searching for a home and can help your real estate agent find the best home for your needs. 2. What is the Trend with Home Values? Our current economy and housing market is strong. That means home values and mortgage rates are increasing. If you are looking to purchase a home but want to stay within a budget, it may be in your best interest to move quickly. It is forecasted for these trends to continue in an upward motion, causing home values to continue to increase. 3. What About Current Mortgage Rates? The ticket price is not the only thing you should be concerned with when purchasing a home. Mortgage rates are always changing and can have a huge impact on your monthly payments. Current trends show mortgage rates are rising. This is something to consider if you are debating the right time to purchase a home, since the rates may be even higher down the road. Bottom Line You and your family are the only ones who can determine the right time to purchase your dream home. It is important to decide exactly why you want a new home for your family and decide on a budget that will be comfortable moving forward. This budget may affect the amount of time you have to search for a home, since home prices and mortgage rates are increasing. 2022-11-01T15:08:39-07:002022-11-01T15:10:35-07:00Tim Ryantag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:32182Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/mortgage-rate-projections.jpg" alt="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " title="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " height="410" width="750" /> There has been some discussion recently on home prices in relation to mortgage rates. Some believe if there is a rapid rise of mortgage rates, home prices should decrease. Logically it makes the most sense for the price of the house to drop when interest rates are rising, but this is not always the case. This theory of home prices decreasing is typically discussed by future home buyers. As a buyer you would like to think if you are paying higher rates on your mortgage, you should be able to see a decrease in cost somewhere else. Unfortunately, these rates are rising because the economy is in better shape. As the economy succeeds, incomes rise, rates go up, as well as the price of the home. A recent study by the John Burns Real Estate Consulting found mortgage rates have very little impact on the cost of the home. The housing market and price increases are affected by things like job growth in the area and rising wages. Coincidentally, these same factors are causing the rise in the mortgage rates since people can afford to take out more. Bottom Line As the economy progresses and strengthens, mortgage rates and home prices will fluctuate. It is a misconception as rates increase, home prices will decrease. Advances in the economy have shown that rates and home prices are more likely to increase together.2022-11-01T15:08:39-07:002022-11-01T15:10:39-07:00Tim Ryantag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33712High Tech Agents - How Technology Has Changed Real Estate<br />
<img style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/114/tech-agent.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="275" /> Technology plays a critical role in today’s real estate industry. Whether you’re trying to sell a single house or more houses, failure to keep up with the times is likely to result in failure to close.
Buyers now have access to almost any information they need, directly from their smartphones.
What the Stats Say
According to the <a title="National Association of Realtors" href="http://www.realtor.org/" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a> (NAR) 2016 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers:
“For 44 percent of recent buyers, the first step that they took in the home buying process was to look online at properties for sale, while 17 percent of buyers first contacted a real estate agent”<br /><br />“Seventy-nine percent of recent buyers found their real estate agent to be a very useful information source. Online websites were seen as the most useful at 86 percent.”<br /><br />“The typical buyer who did not use the internet during their home search spent only four weeks searching and visited four homes, compared to those who did use the internet and searched for 10 weeks and visited 10 homes.”
Basically, home buyers now turn to the Internet first. They consider information on the Web to be the most helpful. And they use this wealth of information to look at more homes and take more time making a decision.
As a seller, you simply must take advantage of this. With our help, you can and will.
Freedom of Information
If you sold a home 15 or 20 years ago, you might be saying to yourself, “What in the world happened?”
To put things simply:
The job of the real estate agent has shifted from information broker to marketing expert. There has always been a bit of “sales” involved in selling a house. But paper records and less efficient means of communication meant a lot more time shelling out information and taking responses. Today, <a style="font-size: 12px;" title="Naples MLS" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/idx/">MLS listings</a> can be found online.
Multiple Listing Services
An MLS is a large database of homes for sale within a given area. This database is maintained by the members of a local real estate association. Listing a home through an MLS makes its information available to every member broker, their agents, and their buyers.
15 or 20 years ago, MLS listings were compiled in big books and syndicated to member brokerages every week. Now, they are publically available through various websites (including this one). This certainly makes the buying process more transparent. But it also puts the onus on the seller to market their property effectively.
What does that mean in the modern real estate market?
Digital Lead Gen 101
Getting your property listed in your area’s MLS is just the first step. And the truth is, it’s difficult to make it much further without a solid broker behind you. That’s because they already have web properties dedicated to getting homes sold.
Whether you’re a single home seller or a single agent, you’ll always be limited in your ability to drive leads to your offering. On the other hand, a broker that has embraced technology has multiple points of access to potential buyers at all times.
Search Results
People often search “real estate agents my city” or “buy a home my city” as their first move when they are considering buying a new home.
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If you manage to earn a place on the first page, you’re destined to get interested calls. But ranking in search engines is an entire industry onto itself, called search engine optimization (or SEO). There is serious money in SEO for the real estate industry.
Real estate agents have to compete with the Realtor.orgs and Zillow.coms of the world as well as their local Coldwell Banker chapter for a spot on the first page. Usually, this is a losing battle. Technologically up-to-date brokers have a lot better shot at competing than an individual agent. And there is virtually zero chance that an individual listing could make it into the search results.
Social Media
<img style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/113/social-web.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="247" />Social media isn’t a very hospitable environment for one-off home sellers either.
Seriously. You aren’t going to sell your house to one of your Facebook friends. But your local team of real estate agents already has a Facebook Page dedicated to selling homes.
With this page, they can target people who are likely to buy a home. Plus, potential homebuyers are drawn to follow such pages as they go through the search process.
Everyone who studies a little bit of Internet marketing will tell you that consistency is key. By posting pictures and other info on their listings predictably over a period of time, they become a source for the information that people are looking for.
As a seller or a single agent, it is hard (or impossible) to achieve this level of consistently.
Paid Advertising
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One of the oldest and truest strategies to sell anything online is with paid advertising. For real estate, though, it is best used to complement your SEO and social strategies.
On Google, people tend to avoid ads. But that doesn’t mean they don’t help. Real estate-related searches draw some the highest cost per click of any search phrase. If they didn’t work, no one would pay for them.
In addition, the presence of an ad can help to increase clicks on your “organic” results. After all, you want your name on the search results page as many times as you can get it.
When it comes to Facebook, you can choose to target your followers directly. You can target the followers of other local real estate companies or a variety of other demographics. And while Facebook ads aren’t likely to convert directly into a sale, they do increase exposure. However, the budget required disqualifies most single sellers and agents.
The Future Is Already Here
There really is no opportunity for those who stay stagnant in the real estate industry. A house is a high-ticket item. That means the marketing dollars will always be there. If you don’t have them to spend, someone else does. That’s why you’ll always see some of the most advanced marketing techniques in the world being used to sell real estate. As more and more people become addicted to getting answers from their smartphone, you’ll only see more technologically savvy techniques being used to sell houses.
Over the last few years, video has replaced photographs as the preferred means of previewing a home. Over the next few years, it may become the default.
Standard in home tours and drone tours are both already popular. And as more people learn about them, virtual reality tours are sure to make the home buying process even more virtually interactive.
At Equity, we've embraced virtual reality tours using services such as Matterport already. It’s hard to deny that such technologies are the future.
So What To Do?
You might have seen this coming, but…
Get a broker that knows what they are doing. If your real estate broker isn’t leveraging the latest technology to get your house sold, why would you trust them? Housing markets are too competitive to rely on outdated means of driving potential home buyers to your property. It’s that simple.
At Equity, we understand how important it is to stay on top of technological trends. We pass that understanding on to our agents, who are all well trained on the industry’s most modern best practices.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/moving-to-naples-fl-heres-what-you-need-to-know-firs" title="Moving to Naples, FL? Here's What You Need to Know First" target="_blank"> Moving to Naples, FL? Here's What You Need to Know First </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-sellers-agent-and-a-buyers-agen" title="What's the Difference Between a Seller’s Agent and a Buyer’s Agent?" target="_blank"> What's the Difference Between a Seller’s Agent and a Buyer’s Agent? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/an-opportunity-to-re-finance" title="An Opportunity to Re-Finance?" target="_blank"> An Opportunity to Re-Finance? </a> 2016-11-22T03:23:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:27-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33713Fall is Here - So Decorate Accordingly
<img style="margin: 10px; float: right;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/shutterstock_59482945_re-sized_386.jpg" alt="" width="386" height="257" />With summer drawing to a very warm close in the last month, seasonal buyers are flocking to Southwest Florida in an escape of the snowy north. And, if you're planning on selling in the near future, you'll likely be hearing from some of these potential buyers.
When you start sprucing up your home for a showing, consider adding some fall flair to the mix – not only will you be giving a fresh, new look to your home that still compliments the warm climate, you'll be subtly reminding northern buyers of their own home up in the colder parts of the country. Here are some tips for getting your house in to the fall mood:
1. Fill Clear Containers with Dried Leaves
Nothing says "fall" like leaves that have changed color and fallen. So, for this cheap and easy decoration, simply collect some of these leaves and twigs, dry them out, and place them in the clear container of your choice (preferably glass). It will look like you just came from a forest with winter just around the corner.
2. Thread Acorns
Acorns are another exterior element that inspires visions of fall, so use this to your advantage. Stringing up acorns to create an attractive border for a picture or mirror is a great way to add a little hint of the season without being too excessive.
3. Pumpkins Are Perfect
These large fruits are staples of Halloween celebrations all over the country, so incorporating the look into your interior decoration will give your home the feel of fall. No need to find one that is obnoxiously large and orange, however – many decorative pumpkins can be purchases, and with a little straw to accent them, you'll be well on your way to embracing the spirit of the season.
4. Pine Cones O' Plenty
It's as simple as an unused mixing bowl filled with pine cones – these spikey, unique parts of the pine tree are not merely relegated to dropping during the colder seasons, but have nevertheless become associated more with such months thanks to the ubiquitous Christmas pine. Adorning your coffee table with pine cones will give your home the scent of a pine, and with it a sense of the changing seasons.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/fun-and-easy-halloween-decorations-for-the-whole-family" title="Fun and Easy Halloween Decorations for the Whole Family" target="_blank"> Fun and Easy Halloween Decorations for the Whole Family </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/find-your-ideal-curb-appea" title="Find Your Ideal Curb Appeal" target="_blank"> Find Your Ideal Curb Appeal </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/exterior-accents-for-the-colder-months" title="Exterior Accents for the Colder Months" target="_blank"> Exterior Accents for the Colder Months </a> 2016-11-07T01:38:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:30-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33714Five Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your Small Spaces<img style="font-size: 12px; margin: 10px; float: right;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/212303_t607_607.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="195" />
When you’re shopping around for a new home, you’ll be tempted by lavish floor plans and sprawling square footage fit for a king and queen. But if that kind of place isn’t in your budget, downsizing while you save up the extra money can work to your advantage.
There are all sorts of ways you can take a smaller space and make it bigger. Making these tips work for you is the first step toward opening up the cramped spaces in your home and increasing the size of your living areas:
1. Match the color of the ceiling and the crown molding
When your ceiling is a different color than the crown molding attached to it, a tunnel vision effect is produced and makes your room look narrower. By coloring the molding the same as the ceiling, the two seem to blend together and make the room as a whole look wider. Similarly, if you install wood or tile flooring, place it in diagonal patterns – this will serve the same purpose of making the room seem wider than it actually is.
2. Mirror image
If you have two large mirrors and don’t know what to do with them, position them on opposite sides of a room. The repeating reflections will give the illusion that the room is much larger than it actually is, thanks to the reflected light and space that the dual mirrors provide.
3. Furnish simply
When you’re adding furniture to your apartment, don’t make things too complicated – this will only make your space appear stuffier. For example, if you are looking for kitchen cabinets, opt for something with a flat design on the front and simple handles. Plus, when you install appliances, aim for stainless steel, as it has a tendency to last longer while making the room seem bigger because of the sleek design and reflective surfaces.
4. Find contrast in the architecture
If your home features dark accents, consider utilizing light paint colors on the surrounding walls to make them shrink back. Blues and greens will make the walls expand in contrast with the darker tones in the rest of the room, making it seem warmer and more spacious.
5. Take advantage of height
Even if you don’t have tall ceilings, you can use the height of a room to your advantage. Rather than decorating outward with deep furnishings, built upwards – this will draw the eye up and down, and make the walls receded. Decorating up will also free up space on the ground, making the room larger and more usable. 2016-11-07T01:22:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:31-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33715Moving to Naples, FL? Here's What You Need to Know First<img style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/59/naples-florida.jpg" alt="" width="299" height="205" />
So you're wanting to move to Naples?
I don't blame you. It's a wonderful place to live. Low crime rates, white sand beaches, year-round warm weather and plenty of fun things to do. It was also rated by Forbes Magazine as the <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/kurtbadenhausen/2015/07/29/the-best-cities-for-future-job-growth/" target="_blank">top city for job growth</a>, and by Gallup-Healthways as the <a href="http://www.today.com/health/happiest-healthiest-city-u-s-t75171" target="_blank">happiest, healthiest city in the US</a>. What's not to love? If you like art, nature, good food and lots of culture, you'll probably feel right at home here in Naples.
One of the questions often asked when searching for a Naples home is "Where is the best place to live in Naples?". Sounds like a simple enough question, but the truth is it depends on a number of factors - such as how much you can, or are willing to, spend.
Real estate in Naples is very communal. There are well over 100 different communities here, each offering it's own unique spin on Naples living, and it really comes down to personal preference as to which one of these communities is right for you. For the sake of time, we've tried to narrow these communities down into lifestyle categories. They may not all fit inside these boxes, but I feel that these categories could cover the vast majority of Naples communities.
Affordability Factor
Let's start with price. For those who may be guided more by budget than by personal preference, at the end of the day it all boils down to what they can afford. And when it comes to affordability, few places in Naples have as much to offer dollar for dollar as <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/golden-gate-estates/">Golden Gate Estates</a>.
When I first came to Naples, Golden Gate Estates seemed like the perfect place. Being from Indiana, I was used to rural living. Driving 20-30 minutes in order to get to civilization was par for the course, and I really enjoyed the privacy that comes with having a large yard and distant neighbors. When it comes to price, $200,000 will buy you a LOT more house (and acreage) in Golden Gate Estates than other places in Naples. In fact, the same money wouldn't even get you into a one bedroom condo in <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/pelican-bay/">Pelican Bay</a>.
<img style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/60/golden-gate-horses.jpg" alt="Horses Running Free in Golden Gate Estates, Naples" width="640" height="256" />
If you like country living - having yardage (most homes are built on 2.5 or 5-acre lots), animals, gardening and maybe even a toolshed or other outside structure - not to mention skipping HOA and Condo Association fees, then you should take a look at Golden Gate Estates. It's affordable, private and most of all quiet.
But it does have it's disadvantages as well.
The thing that bothered me the most about the Estates (and what eventually prompted me to move to North Naples) is the drive. I work in North Naples, and I'm not exactly what you would call a morning person. Getting up an extra 30-40 minutes early and fighting traffic on Immokalee Rd. or Golden Gate Blvd. twice a day isn't exactly something that I enjoyed doing. And that's only for commuting to work. If you need groceries or just want to go out to do something fun, be prepared to drive for 20-30 minutes depending on how far out you are.
There were other issues that made me stray from Golden Gate, such as the constant need to have your water filtration and softening systems checked and maintained to keep your water from smelling like a sulfer spring, but for me the drive quickly became a deal-breaker. In all fairness, there is now a Publix being constructed in Golden Gate, which will make it easier for residents to do simple grocery shopping without having to drive 15-20 miles each way.
There is also the matter of wildlife - bugs are bigger in Golden Gate, and there are lots of snakes, frogs, lizards and spiders. There are also occasional Black Bear and Panther sightings, however they are extremely rare. If this kind of thing bothers you, then you should probably look elsewhere. Otherwise, <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/golden-gate-estates/">click here</a> to see some listings for Golden Gate Estates.
There are other places in Naples that offer the same benefits (large estates, privacy, no HOAs) as Golden Gate but are closer to civilization, unfortunately they aren't as competitive on pricing. A few examples are:
<br />
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/pine-ridge/">Pine Ridge</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/oakes-estates/">Oakes Estates</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/livingston-woods/">Livingston Woods</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/logan-woods/">Logan Woods</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/coconut-grove/">Coconut Grove</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/brookside/">Brookside</a>
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Side Note: A few other notable Naples communities that, while they do not offer an abundance of acreage or privacy do offer HOA-free living, would include <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/naples-park/">Naples Park</a> and <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/naples-twin-lakes/">Naples Twin Lakes</a>. Most of the homes in these communities are reasonably priced considering the location, and are free of HOA fees and other restrictions that come with living inside an association.
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Golf Lifestyle
<img style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/61/golf-lifestyle-naples.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="256" />
One of the great things about Naples (for a lot of residents, at least) is that there is a plethora of golf courses, and many of those courses are contained within their own communities. There are essentially two different types of golf communities in Naples - <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bundled-golf/">Bundled golf</a> and <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/luxury-golf/">equity golf</a> communities. The main difference between the two are the cost. With bundled golf, the membership is basically included in the price of the home. If you buy a home in a bundled golf community, your membership to the course is included. With Equity golf, you will have to pay extra for the membership - ranging anywhere from $10,000 to well over $200,000. There are also annual dues as well as cart fees. The advantage to having an equity membership is that the club generally has a lower density of members so tee times are easy - even in season. Also, when you wish to sell your membership there are generally buyers interested, and there is generally no requirement to maintain your membership, as the community and club are seperate entities.
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Some examples of Bundled Golf communities in Naples are:
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<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/cedar-hammock/">Cedar Hammock</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/countryside-golf-country-club/">Countryside</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/cypress-woods/">Cypress Woods</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/forest-glen/">Forest Glen</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/foxfire/">Foxfire</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/glen-eagle/">Glen Eagle</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/heritage-bay/">Heritage Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/naples-heritage/">Naples Heritage</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/naples-lakes/">Naples Lakes</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/stonebridge/">Stonebridge</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles/">Twin Eagles</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/vanderbilt-country-club/">Vanderbilt Country Club</a>
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Examples of Equity Golf communities in Naples are:
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<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks/">Grey Oaks</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/mediterra/">Mediterra</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/quail-west/">Quail West</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/pelican-marsh/">Pelican Marsh</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/pelican-bay/">Pelican Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/olde-cypress/">Olde Cypress</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/lely-resort/">Lely Resort</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/vineyards/">Vineyards</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/the-strand/">The Strand</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/the-quarry/">The Quarry</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/audubon/">Audubon</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/wyndemere/">Wyndemere</a>
<a href="/collier's-reserve/">Collier's Reserve</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/tiburon/">Tiburon</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles/">Twin Eagles</a>
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Naples Gated Communities
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/62/naples-gated-communities.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="256" />
Security is a big deal to a lot of people, and gated communities generally offer an additional level of security that let residents sleep easier at night knowing that only residents and guests are able to get inside. It also tends to keep out pesky solicitors and door-to-door salespeople which is attractive to just about everyone I would think. Not to mention less traffic, stricter building codes which keeps the communities looking nice and home prices up and typically a host of amenities and community activities that are available only to residents. Of course the trade-off for these benefits is usually higher prices and HOA fees, and the additional hassles of waiting for a gate to open (sometimes behind a line of cars doing the same) in order to get inside, and needing to give out codes to guests and delivery people so that they can get to your residence.
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Some examples of gated communities in Naples are:
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<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/carlton-lakes/">Carlton Lakes</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/colliers-reserve/">Colliers Reserve</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/delasol/">Delasol</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks/">Grey Oaks</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/heritage-bay/">Heritage Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/ibis-cove/">Ibis Cove</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/longshore-lake/">Longshore Lake</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/mediterra/">Mediterra</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/olde-cypress/">Olde Cypress</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/pelican-marsh/">Pelican Marsh</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/saturnia-lakes/">Saturnia Lakes</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/stonebridge/">Stonebridge</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/the-strand/">The Strand</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/vasari/">Vasari</a>
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See a list of <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/gated-homes/">Naples gated homes</a> for sale.
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Resort Lifestyle
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/63/naples-resort-communities.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="256" />
While Naples doesn't exactly have huge, all-inclusive resort-type retirement communities that residents never have to leave (there are a few that are close), there are many that are perfect for second-home residents that offer tons of luxurious amenities and activities involving residents of the community. Many of these communities are golf-centered (let's face it, we're talking about Naples here), which we have already covered above, but there are a few that could hold their own even without the plush greens and rolling fairways that define them as such.
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A few of these would include:
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<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek/">Fiddler's Creek</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/lely-resort/">Lely Resort</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/the-quarry/">The Quarry</a>
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There are many more, but these are not the resort communities that we will focus on to comprise this list. For the sake of brevity (and to avoid repetition) we will exclude golf communities from this particular list, and focus only on communities that offer resort-style amenities that do not include golf.
We'll start with the "Walks". These are a series of gated communities that were constructed by the home builder Divosta, each offering top-notch amenities such as fitness centers, community pools, tennis courts, car washes, cafes, dedicated post offices and a lot more. These communities also offer a plethora of organized activities for residents, ensuring there is always something to do inside the gates.
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These communities include:
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<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/island-walk/">Island Walk</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/verona-walk/">Verona Walk</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/village-walk/">Village Walk</a>
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Naples is loaded with communities that could be considered "<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/resort-style/">Resort Style</a>", and more are being built every year. The list of these communities would go on for what could seem like an eternity, so I'll stick to the ones that are the most popular. And those would include:
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<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/olde-naples/">Olde Naples</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bridgewater-bay/">Bridgewater Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/sterling-oaks/">Sterling Oaks</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/falling-waters/">Falling Waters</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/marbella-lakes/">Marbella Lakes</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/moraya-bay/">Moraya Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/pelican-landing/">Pelican Landing</a>
<a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/the-dunes/">The Dunes</a>
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While not entirely exaustive, I hope that this list can serve as a guide to those that are new to the area and are looking to purchase a home here. If you found this post helpful or would like to add something to the conversation, feel free to speak out in the comments section.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/only-25-homes-remaining-for-sale-in-lely-resorts-ol-community" title="Sign UpSign In EQUITY REALTY'S NAPLES REAL ESTATE BLOG Giant Gains For Southwest Florida Home Selle" target="_blank"> Sign UpSign In EQUITY REALTY'S NAPLES REAL ESTATE BLOG Giant Gains For Southwest Florida Home Selle </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-sellers-agent-and-a-buyers-agen" title="What's the Difference Between a Seller’s Agent and a Buyer’s Agent?" target="_blank"> What's the Difference Between a Seller’s Agent and a Buyer’s Agent? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/real-estate-in-naples-and-how-its-influencing-downtown-demand" title="Real Estate In Naples, and How It's Influencing Downtown Demand" target="_blank"> Real Estate In Naples, and How It's Influencing Downtown Demand </a> 2016-08-10T04:09:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:34-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33716Giant Gains For Southwest Florida Home Sellers<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/53/house_bar_graph_arrow_up.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="207" />House prices are rising in Southwest Florida and, thanks to that, Southwest Florida sellers are seeing a rise in the average price of homes since 2015. A rise that’s so high it’s about twice the national average.
RealtyTrac reported that sellers made an average of just over $20k across the nation in 2015. This is an increase of 11%. RealtyTrac, based in Irvine, California reports that this is the largest percentage seen since 2007.
Sellers in Collier County on the other hand made around $50k on average. This is higher than the national percentage and is an increase of 21% compared to when the house was purchased. There was only a 7% gain, which is about $17k, in 2014.
Lee County Sellers also enjoyed a high return. It was around 23% in Lee County in 2015, which was about $33k. This is around four times the 6% ($9k) they saw in 2014.
These gains do sound impressive but they still don’t compare to the returns experienced when real estate was at its peak.
This peak was back in 2006. This saw Collier’s sellers receive an average of just under $170k. This was a 73% gain on the original purchase price. Lee County Sellers enjoyed a gain of 92%, or around $121k.
The vice president of RealtyTrace, Daren Blomquist, believes that even though the real estate market is always speculative, Southwest Florida home sellers can’t expect these kind of gains to come back soon.
One reason they won’t come back is because of the restrictions the government has placed on lending. There are now checks and balances that didn’t exist back then.
The percentage of sales is shrinking for investors, cash sales, and distressed sales. Though the average percentage gain of sales that are backed by loans given by the Federal Housing Administration is rising.
Blomquist believes that this shows the real estate market in the region is stabilising now.
He believes that this is a good sign Southwest Florida’s real estate market is broadening rather than depending on wealthy cash buyers.
Blomquist says that these “vulture funds” that picked up short-sales and foreclosures between 2008 and 2013 they aren’t as common anymore. The bargains that they were hunting show up less and less.
Bank-owned sales dropped to just 7.3% in the Collier market. That amounts to 960 sales in 2015, a drop from the 11.1 percent (1487) sales made in 2014. Lee was the center of the housing crisis at a time. 10.5% of the sales made there, or 2,416, were made by banks in 2015. In 2014 this number was 15.9% or 3,552 sales.
This lack of cheap housing has lead the investors to markets that are cheapear than Southwest Florida according to Blomquist.
98 sales in Collier from 2015 were made to institutional investors. This was down from the 317 sales made in 2014. It was a percentage drop of 2.4% to 0.8%. In Lee County the sales made to these institutional investors fell from 5.7% (1,256) in 2014 to 1.6% (351) in 2015.
The reason that cash sales have gone down in Southwest Florida, at least according to Blomquist, is because investors will often buy in cash. <br />In Collier 57.5% of the sales were cash sales. This was 7,603 sales, a drop from the 60.2% of sales, or 8,058 in 2014. About half of the sales made in Lee were cash sales in 2015, down from the 60% made the year before.
This drop in competition in the housing market has created more opportunities for traditional buyers to get a mortgage.
Collier County saw a rise in FHA-backed sales. In 2015 6.3% of the sales, or 829 sales, where FHA-backed. This was a rise from the 582 sales, or 4.3% seen in 2014. 12%, or 2,761 of the sales in Lee County were FHA-backed in 2015. This was a rise of the 8.2%, or 1,844, sales FHA-backed sales in 2014.
Blomquist does have some warnings for people though. The biggest warning sign is that house prices have risen 57 months in a row in Lee County, and 41 months in a row for Collier County. But the average income has remained generally the same that whole time.
This is inevitably going to lead to stagnation of the market as homes become less and less affordable.
Though a different report made by MetroStudy chief economist Brad Hunter pointed out two things that could counter the pressure placed on traditional buyers. One is that the job market is improving, and the other is that housing starts have risen in Southwest Florida by 35.3% over the past four quarters. This has loosened the tight supply. MetroStudy reported that these new home closings account for about 18% of the market in the region.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/naples-home-prices-likely-to-soar" title="Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar" target="_blank"> Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/lee-collier-home-prices-rebound-but-have-yet-to-reach-peak" title="Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak." target="_blank"> Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak. </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> 2016-02-10T03:34:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:37-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33717Only 25 Homes Remaining For Sale in Lely Resort's Olé Community<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/50/ole-at-lely-resort.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="228" />With the number of vacant homes being reduced to only 25, <a title="Ole" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/ole/">Olé</a>, located within <a title="Lely Resort" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/lely-resort/">Lely Resort</a>, has made the neighborhood almost sell out in the recent sales of the resort with its gorgeous move-in-ready homes. <br /><br />Pricing starting in the $250s has been announced by Stock Development for the summer, as stated by Tim Clark, the Sales Vice President at Lely Resort, that features 3 golf courses, two golf clubhouses and the <a title="Lely Resort Amenities" href="http://www.lelyresort.com/amenities.php">Players Club and Spa</a>. The pricing also includes upgrade credits and options that are worth $30,000.<br /><br />Featuring two-bedroom homes that include a two-and-one-half bath design, an open kitchen, an attached garage for a single car as well as a large front porch, the Santa Maria is an inventory townhome residency priced at $259,990, including nearly $20,000 worth of credits and upgrades. <br /><br />Covering an area of about 1459 square feet, the home reflects fabulous room designs and the kitchen downstairs. Whereas, two private bedroom suites are located upstairs, along with a laundry room and an open balcony. The balcony features a built-in granite desk stretching about 9 feet with wood cabinets lined up below the desk.<br /><br />The residents of the Santa Maria can cherish a uniquely designed rear courtyard that is elegantly landscaped with a free-form pool having custom furnishings. Offering barbecue grills, umbrellas, tables, chairs and other patio lounge furniture, a brick-paver deck, covered by a large wooden trellis works as an outstanding element of the courtyard, letting one have a great time with friends and family. <br /><br />Built around a Village Center, <a title="Ole Lely Resort" href="http://www.lelyresort.com/ole-homes.php">Olé</a> offers some remarkable amenities for entertainment and leisure, including a lovely ice-cream parlor, an Internet cafe, a bistro, a full-service concierge, a pub, a coffee shop and a movie theater sporting 90 seats. When it comes to business and studies, there is a library as well as a business center.<br /><br />Including the best-in-class exercise equipment and machinery, The Village Center gym offers a separate studio space for aerobics or dancing, along with separate locker rooms for men and women. Stunning waterfalls and rock spaces adorn the outdoor free-form pool. The beauty and charm of the pool is further complemented by a landscaped sun deck featuring custom designed furnishings.<br /><br />An amazing waterfront Promenade, located ahead of the 20,000 square foot Village Center offers a great platform to some of the most wonderful events with its huge outdoor amphitheater. A chain of beautifully crafted sculptures and reflecting pool line the pedestrian path as one advances to the theater.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/ole" title="Ole Real Estate" target="_blank"> Ole Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/ole-homes" title="Ole Listings" target="_blank"> Ole Listings </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/" title="Lely Resort" target="_blank"> Lely Resort </a> 2015-08-25T02:43:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:40-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33718Limited Chances Remain in Torino at Grey Oaks Country Club<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/communities/grey-oaks/Grey%20Oaks.JPG" alt="" width="300" height="225" />The Torino neighborhood, being among the last parcels of land to be developed in the community, provides the final chance for investors to own a piece of recently constructed villa homes in the <a title="Grey Oaks" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks/" target="_self">Grey Oaks Country Club</a>.
Torino, which is approaching build-out fast, will include, once completed, 54 high-end villas on the brick-lined streets. Halstatt Partnership and CC Homes are the contractors tasked with developing Torino. Halstatt Partnership is based out of Naples and is the company that developed Grey Oaks Country Club. It is owned by Sproul family. CC Homes, on the other hand, is a property investment and development company based out of Coral Gables, Florida.
There are only 17 homeownership opportunities remaining in Torino, and this includes a completed non-furnished, occupancy-ready home, a completed furnished home. Four unfurnished, move-in ready homes that are currently under construction are set to be completed in September this year and January next year. There are also 3 move-in ready homes whose construction is ready to start and 7 pre-permitted home sites as well as one buildable site yet to be permitted. For each of the remaining residences in Torino, the developer offers $30,000 club membership or design center credit at the closing.
There is also an unfurnished Biella home, which is currently under construction and will cost $1,233,744 once completed. The unit’s construction is set to be over by September this year. Upgraded finishes include safari maple alabaster cabinetry for the kitchen and high quality marble flooring for living areas.
Another unfurnished Biella villa, expected to cost $1,102,045 upon completion and built on the south-facing end with privacy wall, will be completed in January 2016. There is a limited time for homebuyers to select their pool design and color. The construction of a third Biella Villa is also set to start, with the completion date set for late May 2016 or early June the same year. Priced at $1,071,024 once completed, the south-facing residence also has a privacy wall.
With a base-price of $1,005,900, this single-story plan has 3,738 square feet with official dining and living rooms, island kitchen, a family room, a den, 2 master suites, 4.5 baths, 2 guest bedrooms, as well as a patio area complete with a pool and a covered terrace. Also included in the plan is a 2-car garage with dedicated golf-cart storage. Other than the residences that are currently being constructed, 2 south-facing home sites have already been given a go-ahead for Biella floor plan.
<img style="float: left; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/36/doral-at-grey-oaks.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="188" />Other Seven Arenas floor plans are also available in Torino, with 3 of them set to be constructed on pre-permitted home sites. The 3-bedroomed house will have 3,032 square feet under air is set to cost investors $935,000. It also includes a courtyard and an entry pavilion. Also featured in the plan are a formal dining room, a den, as well as a 2-car garage with dedicated golf cart storage. There is also an optional summer kitchen.
A completed and non-furnished Arenas villa, costing $1,103,419, is available for purchase. This beautifully appointed home is found on northern exposure home site and features extended swimming pool, marble flooring in the living areas and a tanning shelf and a beach.
Two non-furnished, ready-to-be occupied villas are also under construction and will be completed in October 2015. The first one is located on a west-facing home site that also has a landscaped area and a water feature at the home’s rear end.
With a base-price of $1,157,002, the homes have upgraded finishes that include Chelsea Millstone cabinetry featuring a classic design, light, bright color palette, an appliance package that features 42-inch inbuilt French door refrigerator, colored granite countertops inside the kitchen, a euro-style gas cook top measuring 36 inches and a microwave.
Improved flooring choices include cinnamon roll walnut wood for study and the master suite, cashmere carpeting in guest bedrooms, and crema beige marble in main living areas. On the outside, summer kitchen features a caramel granite countertop, ivory cream cabinetry, coyote outdoor refrigerator, stainless steel sink and a gigantic coyote gas grill measuring 36 inches. A tanning shelf and a lap pool are enclosed by a travertine deck in French pattern.
Set to be completed in October 2015, the second Arenas home is located on north-facing home site and is priced at $1,107,981. Improved flooring choices include walnut hardwood in den and master bath, premium carpeting inside the guest bedrooms and 24 by 24-inch marble in key living areas. The kitchen features improved Shaker style cabinetry that has an espresso finish, under counter designed microwave, Sierra Granada countertop and a gas cook top measuring 36 inches. The master bath has a vanity cabinetry that is finished in espresso tone and then topped by Ibiza granite countertops.
The shower has hand-held fixture and 3 body sprays. In the bedroom, den and great room, bracing for wall-mounted TVs has been provided for. Outdoor living area has summer kitchen complete with Naples cabinetry, stainless steel sink, coyote gas grill and a refrigerator. The pool as well as its two decks is enclosed by travertine deck in French pattern.
Priced at $1,021,916, an unfurnished and occupancy-ready home is set to start being constructed soon. There is a limited time for homebuyers to choose design and colors of their pools.
A completely furnished Camargo model, valued at $1.599 million, and complete with a delayed closing, is available. The Camargo floor plan also features a master suite on all its floors, a den 3-and-a half baths, formal dining and living rooms, second floor loft, 2 extra guest rooms and a spacious gourmet island kitchen, pool and a spa, two-car garage and outdoor living space containing a covered lanai.
On the other hand, furnished Camargo model displays interior design done by West’s Dominique Lamanna that showcases a nautical style inspired by Ralph Lauren that features maritime color palette of ivories, naivies, earthy browns and whites. Lamanna features contrasted light background tones complete with recurring pops of bright and blue corals. The tones blend beautifully against the dark brown flooring (hardwood) that is found on the staircase and on the whole living areas. The inclusion of a stone inlay on the floor of the dining room gives the space additional elegance. Paneling, molding details, beamed and wainscoting details combine to give the nautical theme of the Lamanna’s design and at the same time convey a bit of elegant rustic feeling that is much associated with Ralph Lauren. It also includes optional wine room and an optional kitchen.
The construction of an unfurnished, occupant-ready Camargo is set to begin on a west-facing home site and it is valued at $1,086,495. Homeowners may select favorite color and design of the pool but for a limited duration of time. Also available are 2 home sites pre-permitted for Camargo plan.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks" title="Grey Oaks Listings" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Listings </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks-community-info" title="Grey Oaks Community Information" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Community Information </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks-subdivisions" title="Grey Oaks Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Subdivisions </a> 2015-08-13T21:18:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:42-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33719Bored? Here's Something to do - Naples Events for Thursday Aug. 13, 2015<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/49/things-to-do.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" />If you're looking for some quality entertainment or just wanting to get out of the house for an evening but not sure what there is to do around Naples this time of year (besides the obvious trip to the beach) then this article is for you. Here is a list of events that are happening here in Naples tonight, August 13th, 2015:
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center presents South Florida Birds and Gardens
South Florida Birds and Gardens is a selection of photographs by Kirsten Hines drawn from her two recent books, Attracting Birds to South Florida Gardens and Birds of Fairchild. The exhibition aims to inspire environmentally sensitive landscaping of conservation value to South Florida’s birdlife. Adults: $5.00 Kids 6-12: $3.00 Kids 6 and under: FREE
9:00 am - 4:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Rookery Bay<br />300 Tower Road, Naples<br /><a href="https://rookerybay.org/visit/art-gallery.html" target="_blank">https://rookerybay.org/visit/art-gallery.html</a>
The Gallery on Fifth presents Go Ultramodern
Digital abstract works, romantic digital collages, splatter paintings and wood sculpture abound in Go Ultramodern, thans to artists David Rose, Yuri Botnar, Alexander Pavlov and Vladmir Bakun.
10:00 am - 9:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Gallery on Fifth<br />9115 Strada Place, #5130, Naples<br /><a href="http://www.artorg.net/" target="_blank">http://www.artorg.net/</a>
Cooking Demo & Happy Hour: French Pastry Party Now Also Non-Gluten Friendly! at La Bazenne
Delight your Senses this Thursday with a “French Pastry Party”, by La Bazenne on Fifth! By popular demand, this course will now also include Tips and Tastings of Both Classic and Gluten-Free Pastries! La Bazenne invites you to a Cooking Demo and Happy Hour “French Pastries” on August 13th from 4pm – 6pm Our team will enchant you with a fun-filled Cooking Demonstration and Tasting of Sweet and Savory French Pastries (of both Classic and Gluten-Free Varieties): Wild Mushroom & Brie Tarts Crème Brulée Berry Tarts (as an Interactive Finale!) The cost of the event is $30 (inclusive of tax and gratuity) and includes a Complimentary Glass of French Bubbly or Your Choice of Any Happy Hour Drink! Our Team also will be at your service to accommodate any Additional Drink Purchases and our $5 French Happy Hour (Drinks & Appetizers) will be exceptionally extended to 7pm so you and your friends can enjoy more of the Best of Modern French Cuisine in Naples! No pre-payment is required, but RSVP Today as seating is limited! Reservations can be made online or by calling 239.682.8623. (Please mention Cooking Demo when making your booking.)
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />La Bazenne of Fifth<br />474 Fifth Ave. S, Naples
Gary Mumford – Live Piano Music at the Old Naples Pub
Live Bluesy, Jazzy, Piano Music
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Old Naples Pub<br />255 13th Avenue South, Naples
Brendon McDonnell – Live Rock and Pop Music at Agave
Live Rock and pop Music
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Agave Southwestern Grill<br />2380 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples
The Ramos Brothers – Live Pop Music at The Claw at Tierney’s Tavern
Live Pop Music
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />The Claw Bar at Tierney's Tavern<br />799 Walkerbilt Rd, Naples
Andy Wahlberg – Live Humorist Music with a Harp/Guitar at the Village Pub
Live Humorist Music with a Harp/Guitar
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Village Pub<br />4360 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples
Jen Watson – Live R&B/Soul, Reggae and Pop Music at Truluck’s
Live R&B/Soul, Reggae and Pop Music – This is a Free Event
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Truluck's Seafood Steak & Crab<br />698 Fourth Ave South, Naples
Manhattan Connection – Live Pop Music aat Noodles
Live Pop music.
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Noodles Italian Café & Sushi<br />1585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples
Gator Nate – Live Swampabilly Music at Pelican Larry’s Pine Ridge
Live Swampabilly Music
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm<br />Cost: Free<br />Address: <br />Pelican Larry (Pine Ridge)<br />1046 Pine Ridge Road, Naples
<br /><br />2015-08-12T21:25:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:44-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33720What's the Difference Between a Seller’s Agent and a Buyer’s Agent?<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/48/buyers-vs-sellers-agent.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="314" />Different people interpret the phrase “real estate agent” differently. To most people, a real estate agent is any person who acts as an intermediary between a seller and a buyer of a real property like a home. In other words, they are persons who work with and for sellers to find buyers and also can work with/for buyers to find sellers. Although these statements seem correct, there is a great difference between agents who deal with sellers only and those that deal with buyers only. The difference is based on their qualifications and tasks.
Whether you are selling or buying, ensure you aim at working with a person specialized only in that area and the one likely to deliver smart services beyond your expectations. This means if you are selling a home, work with an agent specialized at looking for potential buyers. Likewise, if your need is to buy a house, stick with a house searcher expert.
What are the main differences between these two agents?
Before the process of buying or selling a home starts, it is best you realize that the final quality of the services delivered will be determined by the type of agent you hire. Customers have been hiring wrong people over time due to the lack of knowledge about the qualities they should look for based on their needs (whether buying or selling). The result is settling with the agent who does not meet the required standards. The following is an example will help you understand better.
Imagine a situation where you want to sell a home, and you have three realtors you have to interview each with different areas of specification. Put in mind all the three are competent.
Agent 1 deals mainly with sellers.
Agent 2 deals mainly with buyers.
Agent 3 claims to be an expert in both buyers and sellers.
Of the three agents, who is the best for you and why?
Since your need is to sell, agent 1 is the one best for you because he/she mainly works with buyers, meaning he/she is much competent in that area than the other two. Agent 2 can never be the right person for you since he/she devotes most of his/her time dealing with the buyers. How about agent 3? This person is very competent. Imagine he/she can comfortably handle both the buyers and sellers. Why don’t you settle with 3? Although this is the case, according to your needs, this agent might not be as good as agent 1.
Do you think agent 3 will have enough time for you as a seller considering the high number of buyers he/she has to show homes every day? The answer is no. That is the reason you should work with the realtor specialized only on the side of your needs and the one willing to give you much of his/her attention until the process ends.
A good job is always rewarding. Good home sellers will always attract a number of potential buyers all the time. It is common for some of these sellers to have close buyer agents who they can refer business to while in this situation. Unlike buyer’s agents, it is hard for a seller’s agent who respect his/her specialization to leave his or her activities so he/she can show homes to the buyers who call. I believe sellers who once faced the challenge of finding their agents without success when they were selling their homes are aware of what I am saying. Some agents are so good to the extent that they must pick up the phone calls from the buyers and then assign them (buyers) other agents specialized in that field. This action benefits everybody. Agents get their referral commissions and also all clients’ needs are satisfied.
Open house is another very interesting service that surrounds buyer’s agents and listing agents. These services do not much benefit the seller, but they can highly benefit a buyer’s agent who deals with them through creating additional potential buyers to do business with later. In addition, it is not common to see a good listing agent who has respect for his/her work looking for ways to create buyers to do business with.
Some Differences Based on Their Roles
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/47/sellers-agent.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" />The Qualifications of a Seller’s Agent
Value Estimators
The right seller’s agent should be able to estimate the value of the property to be sold. The reason the owner uses this agent is because he/she is confident this agent understands the market value much well due to his/her experience in home selling. Overpricing is one of the main factors that make houses take an extended period of time before getting a potential buyer. Seller’s agents who understand their work properly will not waste their time working with the seller who is pricing his/her home excessively high than its value. Their goal is to work with realistic and understanding seller and in businesses where sales are moving fast.
However, this is not the case with buyer’s agents. This is why it is advisable for the homeowners to work with the right agents who are capable of valuing properties correctly. It is very unfortunate for a homeowner to waste a lot of time before getting a potential buyer due to overpricing, and eventually sell the home at very low price.
Ability to Market
Marketing is the primary factor that determines a commodity price and how fast it will sell. Successful listing agents understand the best marketing techniques to use, and when and where to use them. These skills develop over time, and only the best of the best agents master them. We live in the world of change and where new ways of marketing evolve every day while the old ones cease to operate. A few years ago, using ads in newspapers was considered the most fashionable way of marketing. Today things have changed, and the competition is stiff. Listing agents have to look for the right ways to spread the word to as many buyers as possible. The most common way today involves using websites, online marketing and thinking outside the box. This way your home will not only sell quickly but fetch a good price.
A Website to Market
Nowadays, websites have become a necessity for any business. A good website is one of the main things that a selling agent should have. The agent should also ensure that the website is not only user-friendly but should have useful information. Search engine optimization is another consideration. Imagine having a thousand websites but none of them seems to appear on the internet. It is best for the listing agents to ensure they fuel their website with lots of fresh content in order to rank highly on the web and get a lot of visitors from online searches.
Real Estate Photos
Describing a commodity for sale is not enough without its picture. Potential buyers would like to see how the said home looks. However, the manner in which the picture is taken and put in the listing matters a lot. A particular home might be everything a buyer was looking for, but its low resolution can give a wrong impression, making him/her change his/her mind. A listing agent understands that it is always best to hire an expert to help him/her take the picture in the best angles possible and resolution before posting them online. Ensure you do some research on a number of listing agents based on their previous marketing photos. The more appealing they are, the higher the chances of attracting buyers.
Honesty
Selling a home is one of the most emotional and difficult decisions to make. Imagine this is the place that you call home, took a lot of time to develop and improve, and have lived happily with your family. A good listing agent is the one who is there for you during this difficult time to ensure that you do not experience any problems during the selling process. He/she should be open to you on anything that you require to do. For example, he/she should help you value the home and ensure you do not overprice it as this action may slow the whole process. Nothing is impressing as having peace of mind when selling your home and moving to live in another place as a happy person.
Modes of Feedback
During the selling process, your listing agent should generate feedback so that you are aware what buyer’s agents are saying about your home. This action is very beneficial as it will help you know how various buyers are feeling about your house. A skilled and experienced seller’s agent will put this consideration on top of the most important ingredients until the home sale process is over.
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/46/buyers-agent.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="226" />The Qualifications of a Buyer’s Agent
Should Know the Town well
How can a person help you find a place to live while on the contrary they do understand that town or your new localities well enough? A good buyer’s agent should have a good understanding of different localities and how they differ with one another. This is your new place and a new way of living and where you are going to spend your life with your family. A skilled buyer’s agent will ensure you have a lot of necessary and accurate information as possible about the area.
Knowledge about the Value of Various Properties
On top of understanding different town well, a buyer’s agent who has worked with a number of home buyers before should be able to calculate the value of different properties. These values may depend on commodities a particular home contains such as the number of bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms, school district, and of course home location. The agent who understands his/her work is also capable of calculating and valuing the home worth based on its properties and location.
Negotiation
You, as the buyer, together with your agent have finally found the home that pleases you. An experienced agent should have good negotiation skills. You are using him/her not only for him/her to help you find a home of your choice, but also find it at fair costs and terms and conditions. Through his/her negotiation skills, a good agent should ensure you get what you want and in the best way possible.
There are many skills, qualifications, and responsibilities that both buyer’s agents and seller’s agent share. For instant, how can a real estate agent work with a seller or a buyer if they do not know how to calculate the market value? Market value calculation is among the main things that should be at their figure tips. If you are a real estate agent and this simple task is beyond your reach, then you are in the wrong profession.
In addition, negotiation skills and how one connects words are among the traits that a good real estate should possess. The whole home process is not a joke and involves different stages, conditions, agreements, and transactions that require a lot of negotiation. Negotiation is among the main facets of this process, and it is through good negotiations that both parties will be contented.
Real estate agents are also supposed to be there for their clients. They have to show responsibility, loyalty, respect, and confidentiality to their client always. Most of them may forget about these minor things and only put emphasis on their interests and the depth of their pockets. If you are a client and you discover unpleasant traits maybe during the interview, eliminate this agent(s) without blinking.
Which Agent is the right for you, Seller’s agent or Buyer’s agent?
Your right agent will depend on your needs. If you are a home buyer, a buyer’s agent will be the best for you. Most likely, your best suited agent will have vast experience due to working with many buyers in the past. It is best to ensure your chosen agent has the necessary information about the localities and towns of your choice. Your buyer’s agent should also have other diverging skills like the ability to ask suitable questions based on the location.
Buying a condominium is another option that will require a lot of considerations. A skilled buyer agent understands the many protocols present in this action and will be able to weigh them from various bearings. An ordinary agent will not see the different considerations between a condominium and a single family home.
If you are a home seller, a seller’s agent is the one for you. Please do not hire a buyer’s agent while in this position. The agent may not serve you to your expectations, since he she may be busy showing home to his/her customers (buyers) when you need him/her the most
Ensure you always choose the right real estate agent depending on needs (either buying or selling a home). It is also advisable to ask your agent the amount of business they derive from each. I believe by now you understand how beneficial it is to work with a buyer’s agent if you are buying a home or with a seller’s one if you are selling. <br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/transaction-broker-vs-single-agen" title="Transaction Broker vs. Single Agent" target="_blank"> Transaction Broker vs. Single Agent </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/selling" title="Selling Your Naples Home" target="_blank"> Selling Your Naples Home </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/guarantee" title="Our Guarantee" target="_blank"> Our Guarantee </a> 2015-03-01T23:10:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:46-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33721Completion of Player's Cove in Lely Resort, Final Two Coach Homes Are Available<img style="vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/45/medallion.jpg" alt="The Medallion Model Home" width="550" height="252" />
Stock has only two homes left for at <a title="Players Cove" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/players-cove/">Player's Cove</a>, a private coach homes neighborhood inside the <a title="Lely Resort" href="http://www.lelyresort.com" target="_blank">Lely Resort</a> which was awarded the Community of the Year 2013 by Collier Building Industry Association.
The Vice President of sales at Lely Resort, Tim Clark says that the coach units are upstairs and provide a long view of the lake all around the Classics Championship Golf Course.
Tim Clark said that Player's Cove provides the residents with a prime location which is across from the Player's Club and Spa that has been lately expanded. Clark added that the residents of Player's Cove have at their doorstep, one of the most premium amnesty complexes in all of the Collier County. Tim Clark said that these two coach homes were the last ones left in the Player's Cove.
The coach home named <a title="The Medallion" href="http://www.stockdevelopment.com/Communities/Lely-Resort/Players-Cove/FloorPlan/Medallion">Medallion</a> is a three-bedroom and a three-bathroom coach that offers a luxurious island-style kitchen with the addition of a breakfast nook. The Medallion also includes a two-car garage, a bonus room and an area of 2,743 in entirety. The second floor of the coach has an elevator option with it and the homes have been priced starting at $559,990.
The Player's Cove offers a wonderful entry way with a pond, entry monument supported by stacked-stone wall, a vertical fountain, residence privacy gates, bridge entry over the pond and waterfalls on both the side of the monument that flows into the pond.
The amenities offered by <a title="Lely Resort" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/lely-resort/">Lely Resort</a> comprise of two golf clubhouses, three golf courses, Player's Club & Spa.
The Lely Resort's Players Club & Spa has been opened after the two–year renovation and expansion plan. With more than 30,000 square feet in entirety, the features of Players Cub & Spa include a new enlarged dining wing that is capable of accommodating more than 200 guests at a time with a new featured outdoor/indoor lounge area and a game room that has been expanded into double of its previous size. With special upholstered seating and club chairs, the lounge offers many intimate areas for seating as well.
The outdoor veranda provides an exquisite terrace dining experience with warmth of a fireplace and private dinner parties with up to 35 guests can also take place in the newly formed private dining room.
The fitness center expand over 6,000 square feet and now offers a extra exercise room, a "spin" room and an aerobics room that has tripled in size. The amenities include on-site physical therapy treatment as well as personal training.
There are four treatment room included in the new Spa Wing; a manicure and pedicure salon, a relaxation room, skin and facial treatment rooms and showering and changing rooms. Facilities such as Botox and facial fillers are also offered at the Spa by a licensed medical assistant.
A second free-form pool has been constructed outside which significantly increases the number of guests that can be accommodated a time by these resort style facilities. The pool has a water feature in the form of a rocks-cape bridge.
The 13 tennis courts of the Tennis facility at this four acre facility are open for play. The tennis courts are adjacent to the clubhouse and locker rooms. The Tennis facility includes a tennis pro store, maintenance building and a court-side cafe with light menu and seating area for the residents. For special tournament events, the facility has a stadium court with expandable seating.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/lely-resor" title="Lely Resort Listings" target="_blank"> Lely Resort Listings </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/" title="LelyResort.com" target="_blank"> LelyResort.com </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/players-cove" title="Player's Cove" target="_blank"> Player's Cove </a> 2014-12-22T22:49:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:48-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33722Real Estate In Naples, and How It's Influencing Downtown Demand<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/43/real-estate-stats.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" />
The real estate industry is now taking a huge leap, considering that London Bay Homes is venturing into new opportunities in the heart of Naples. A couple of months ago, the company put up a new home in downtown Naples, and it boasted of a huge success. Today, they are putting up a similar one in the same area, plus there are also plans to develop similar homes in the near future.
You see, the company has had a solid reputation in dealing with upmarket homes, specifically in the Mediterra and even Quail West. However, now they are even expanding their strategies in Naples, by acquiring more property to fulfill the ever growing demand of homes in the region and in the greater part of it.
As we speak, Old Naples is rich in real estate opportunities. More would-be homeowners are looking to buy houses here - as confirmed by top realtor, James Bates (who works with Coldwell Banker).
According to him, the demand in this area has continued to rise with prices escalating as ever. He speaks from experience due to the nature of his job in the area, where he says he's sold plenty of homes in the last few months.
A background research on London Bay Homes reveals that they sold their downtown model for $2.6 million at the beginning of the year. And in fact, the demand was so high that the home was sold just as it was being completed. But that was gone, and now the company has a new project they are expecting to complete next spring. It's a 2-story, and a 3-bedroom unit that will boast of numerous features to marvel about.
First though, it's important to note that this home is a combination of two architectural designs, both from Old Florida and West Indies. The new home will feature an entry-way water fountain, transom windows and a special roofing design. What's more, the interior decor will be handled by Romanza Interior design.
Again, speculations have it that it measures 4.092 square foot, and the retailing price is also likely to be $3.5 million. So this is really an upscale crib. The rooms are going to be bigger than ever. Of course we're also expecting the master bedroom to be fully furnished, with top-notch decor and pronounced features. The ceiling is also going to be a little bit higher this time round. Lastly, its going to feature an up-stairs loft, leading the way to a wet bar.
So we see that the company has been actively buying and selling quality upscale homes in the recent months due to the growing demand. This is not all they've been doing this year. News has it that they recently purchased another unit on 1st Avenue North, and it went for $2.6 million.
In the 90s, London Bay was known to build expensive luxurious units in Port Royal area. It looks like they are going back to their old reputation - by offering would-be homeowners a solution that is quite different from what they see in a gated community.
Of course this trend is being fueled by the changing needs of the 21st century home-buyer. They want a fully-equipped outdoor living area and a kitchen as well. They want their kitchen to feature an island breakfast bar, spacious enough to accommodate their families. They also want a bathroom, fully-furnished with vanities, walk-in closet and showers, plus spa tubs. Finally, they are expecting a private patio with a raised spa, where they can relax in the cool of the day. This is exactly what London Bay Homes is giving.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/olde-naples" title="Olde Naples Real Estate" target="_blank"> Olde Naples Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/port-roya" title="Port Royal Real Estate" target="_blank"> Port Royal Real Estate </a> 2014-11-24T02:29:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:51-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33723Buying Real Estate in Southwest Florida<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/42/naples-pier.jpg" alt="" width="382" height="246" />Southwest Florida has always been popular for its subtropical landscape. For a long time, it has attracted people looking for a second home. Customers are attracted toward high end golf courses, water sports and boating on the Gulf of Mexico, fine dine restaurants, malls and shops. Southwest Florida features a wide range of cities right on the coast from Platinum Coast of Naples and Marco, Collier Country to Sanibel Island’s beaches.
Collier County has always been popular for its winters. According to residents, when cold breeze blows during the winter season, the temperature is still 10-15 degrees warmer than Sarasota. Despite the numerous threats from hurricanes, the increasing cost of home insurance and various other problems, more than a thousand people move to this region in Florida every day. A lot of these people move to Collier and Lee Counties.
What Do the Experts Say?
According to more than a dozen brokers, Southwest Florida has rapidly become a buyer’s market. In most new communities, the number of homes for sale has almost tripled in the last few years. The primary reason is that real estate investors have been trying to unload many different properties. The strongest segment in the real estate market has been $2 million. According to local brokers in Southwest Florida, investors usually stayed away from such high prices. However, sellers haven’t brought the prices down to where many buyers expected.
The most dominant cities in Southwest Florida are linked by the INterstate 75 since the 1980s, and the Tamiami Trail (Route 41) since the 1920s. Some of these cities include Fort Myers, Naples and Sarasota. According to real estate experts, the Naples’ Platinum Coast is considered the most expensive. The median price for a home in this place is around $500,000. Thus, most buyers are choosing Lee County. Thus, most people are choosing Lee County. The prices in this region are lower, and builders offer numerous cultural amenities.
Lee County has been a booming real estate market. Real estate prices are lower than Naples. In this region, a lot of luxurious golf course communities have been going up on almost every corner in the Southern region of the county. Currently, Fort Myers’ is undergoing a complete makeover. It has been attracting a lot of high rise condo developers. Moreover, Bonita Springs, which was once a secluded areas, has been full of luxurious high rises. From North to South, here’s an overview of the real estate market in Southwest Florida.
Sanibel / Fort Myers Beach / Fort Myers
Fort Myers is located about 15 miles from the Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach. According to Michael Munn, a renowned real estate broker working with the Pretium Realty Group, this place has never been a huge second home market. In fact, second home buyers constitute just 10-15% of the real estate market. However, Lee County has been quickly catching up, especially in the towns of South County, such as Bonita Springs and Estero. In these places, high end country club communities and high rise condos are developing rapidly.
The most famous resident in the region is Thomas Edison. According to him, there’s just one Fort Myers, and it won’t take long before 90 million people realize the truth. In January and February, the city organizes the Festival of Light, which celebrates Edison’s invention of the light bulb. For a long time, the Edison and Henry Ford winter estates have been the most popular tourist attractions. They are located on the McGregor Boulevard. With the second position, Sanibel Island is not far behind.
The J.N Darling National Wildlife Preserve takes up most part of the island. Thus, ecotourism is the main attraction in this region. During the high season, the population increases from 6,000 to 20,000. Sanibel Island is home to a mix of different types of houses. Most of these fall under the luxury category. They are priced between $1 to $4 million. On the other hand, condo prices start from $500,000.
If you’re a second home buyer, Cape Coral will be your best choice. It’s located North of the Caloosahatchee. The place features more than 400 miles of canals, which connect you to the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s worth mentioning that the best located houses are being remodeled. These include the old ranch houses built in the 1960s. They are being converted to large new houses. The best location is near the river, and costs around $1 to $4 million.
It’s important to understand that the Fort Myers Beach has the perfect mix of condos and houses. Even condo hotels have been entering the real estate market. When people get tired from the beach area, the Times Square is a big relief. At times, traffic on the island can easily reach the mainland. Due to direct flights from Dusseldorf to Fort Myers, the island attracts a lot of German tourists. Thus, German delis and restaurants are quite common to the area.
Bonita Springs / Bonita Beach / Estero
Until a decade ago, Estero and Bonita Springs were popular because of the tomato fields and greyhound racing track. Currently, the place is popular for the master planned Bonita Bay spread across a 2,400 acre area. These upscale golf communities have been able to attract a lot of buyers. They are mostly built in Collier and Lee Counties. Bonita Bay has been developed by the Lutgert Companies. It offers the perfect mix of houses, from villas and condos to luxury units and large houses facing the Bay area. The Intracoastal Waterway is just a 10 minute drive from Bonita Beach.
Estero is centrally located. It’s a bedroom community for home buyers looking to work in Naples and Fort Myers. According to Jack Mancini, Gulf Coast Premier Realty, many second home buyers live in this place. He says that most residents are young families. Moreover, a major section of the community comprises of investors. The real estate market in the region has been flooded with opportunists. The Miromar Outlet Mall is located right off the Interstate 75 in Estero. It attracts more than one million shoppers every year. Moreover, the International Design Center has become a huge store for interior designers from around the world. Some other major malls include Coconut Pointe and Gulf Coast Town Center.
Naples
Naples is considered one of the wealthiest retreats in the country during the winter season. The primary reasons include a wide range of restaurants, cultural amenities, shopping and golf courses. Average prices in the region is around $500,000. However, the inventory in this region has been growing, and buyers have numerous choices. The County offers plenty of luxurious neighborhoods. However, the four most popular neighborhoods include Park Shore, Pelican Bay, Bay Colony and Gordon Drive South.
Collier County also offers a wide range of luxurious golf course communities. Most golf courses in the county have been designed by Greg Norman, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Jack Nicklaus and other renowned designers. This county features more golf holes per capita than any other city in the United States of America. Most home buyers choose Naples for the welcoming and friendly people. The attitude and mindset of the people is pleasant. Most residents are from the Midwest, and have the same mentality to greet new people.
Marco Island
In the 1960s, the Deltona Corporation got permission from the Army Corps of Engineers to create an exceptional dream city. The place is located around 16 miles South of Naples. It’s located in 6,800 acres of land with excellent coastal environment. In the 1970s, the building operations of most developers were cancelled because of the negative impact on the environment.
Most houses and apartments in Marco are located on open water or canals. Crescent Beach is home to a wide range of luxurious high rises. The island features more than 100 condominiums. Moreover, the view from some upper floors of condos is exceptional. On sunny morning, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of turquoise Gulf waters. Tigertail Beach attracts numerous shell collectors and birders.
It’s worth mentioning that inland homes in Marco Island can cost around $40,000. However, average prices in the region are considered the most expensive. Recently, a $12.9 million mansion was on the market. It was located in the Southern region of the island on open water, and overlooked mangroves called the Ten Thousand Islands.2014-11-21T06:16:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:53-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:337243 New Villa Floor Plans to be Built by London Bay Homes At Miromar Lakes
Starting today, Florida Based London Based Homes has renewed its portfolio by adding 3 new villas (single family) in Portofino, a very unique and beautiful village that borrows Mediterranean and Spanish architectural motifs.
The company has also announced the name of the new bedrooms, which bear Italian names such as Carina, Benita and Adalia. Each villa is very spacious and offers a powder room, 3 full bathrooms, a formal dining room and of course, a study room all within 2810 square feet and up to 3240 square feet. In fact, these are only 3 of a total of 9 different home designs that people interested in Portofino real estate can currently buy.
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/miromar-lakes_800.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="174" />Featuring breathtaking plazas and traditional cobblestone streets, the calm and beautiful neighborhood Bay is reminiscent of an authentic Italian village where you can enjoy and admire some of the best examples of European architecture. For those who plan on moving in Portofino, it's important to keep in mind there are only twenty villa homes London Bay Homes built here and all of them have a wonderful view over the 700+ acres of freshwater from <a title="Miromar Lakes" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/miromar-lakes-beach-and-golf-club/">Miromar Lakes</a>.
The Carina consists of a total of 3248 square feet of living space and the designers focused on the openness between the kitchen and the family room. Therefore, the villa features a walk-in closet and a private full bathroom for each guest suite, while the dining room and the kitchen are connected via the pantry area. The design is a bit more sophisticated in parts incorporating spacious living rooms and walls of sliding glass doors. The villa also features a 3 car garage as well (optional).
For those who love open floor homes, the Benita is the best choice they can consider. It features a great room, a kitchen and a cafe that are going to redefine the expression of "home sweet home". In total, you'll get a large 3101 square feet of livable space which offers you a master bathroom, a master bedroom, a dining room and tray ceilings in the great room. As for the kitchen, it features a walk-in pantry and a wonderful front freestanding island breakfast bar. Just like the Adalia, you also get an optional 3 car garage.
Lastly, if you're looking for a home that is spacious enough for a family of 3 or 4 and within your budget, then nothing beats the Adalia. With 3 full bathrooms, a dining area and a great room, Adalia offers a total of 2810 square feet of living space which is perfect for a young family. There's also a valet area off the garage and if you carefully study the plans you'll see that in several rooms you have tray ceilings. As for the valet area, you can easily use it as your favorite tech room or even as your new mud room. If you have one or more cars, the Adalia also comes with an outdoor living area encompassing four hundred and fifty nine square meters which should be enough for your mini car collection.
As a client of <a title="Portofino real estate" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/portofino/">Portofino real estate</a>, you can easily customize your living space by building a private boat dock in your backyard, expanding al fresco living areas and choosing from a wide range of options and architectural elevations to add outdoor kitchens and fireplaces.
Enjoy fine casual dining, white sand beaches, swimming and all the amenities of Miromar Lakes by letting our professionals handle your pool maintenance and landscaping. You also have access to The Golf Club, a 7 court tennis club, a fitness and spa center for the ultimate in relaxation and sporting activities.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/miromar-lakes-beach-and-golf-club" title="Miromar Lakes Beach And Golf Club Real Estate" target="_blank"> Miromar Lakes Beach And Golf Club Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/portofino" title="Portofino Real Estate in Miromar Lakes Beach And Golf Club" target="_blank"> Portofino Real Estate in Miromar Lakes Beach And Golf Club </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/new-construction" title="New Construction" target="_blank"> New Construction </a> 2014-11-19T04:51:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:55-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33725An Opportunity to Re-Finance?
<img style="font-size: 12px; float: left; margin: 10px;" title="Homeowner on Computer" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/images/homeowner-on-laptop_355_01.jpg" alt="A homeowner check possible mortgage re-financing options on her laptop." width="355" height="238" />A drop in mortgage rates has left many Americans wondering what to do next. Millions of Americans will most likely re-finance their mortgage loans during this tantalizing period. Homeowners and aspiring homeowners keen on getting discounts avoided their lenders for processing of their earlier requests. The opportunity to lower the mortgage rates arose from the turmoil in the financial markets resulting to a reduction in stock prices and bonds. Long-term mortgage rates, however, were as per treasury’s strategic plan which has for the first time reduced to less than 2 percent since May last year.
According to Freddie Mac, a giant mortgage firm, the mean rates for 30-year fixed mortgages reduced to 3.97 percent. The drop to below 4 percent was unexpected because by January, the mean rate was 4.53 percent.
The low rates come with risks, but do also have opportunities. Balancing fees and charges by the financiers are at times confusing and can shortchange firms that focus on savings. The low rates are also associated with a high risk of reduced economic growth. A slow economic growth affects the incomes of people with the mortgage loans and limits their potential to pay on time.
The low rates below 4 percent, however, have the potential to motivate people. According to Michelle Meyer, a chief economist at the Bank of America, the low rates make people excited. Prospective buyers and mortgage bankers see the rates as favorable. Homeowners such as those in Amy Romen and Issi of Mountain View in California might take advantage of the situation and decide to re-finance.
Amy Romen, for example, purchased Condo during the peak season of the housing boom at an approximate value of $40,000. By then the rate the adjustable rate had a starting 5.875 rate that would change after ten years. The change would see Amy Romen pay an extra $400 each month for the Condo. Issi Romen lamented on the issue and said that he expected the rates to drop. The drop in rates reminds him that it is time to re-finance the mortgage before the rates rise again.
Before the start of last week, many borrowers, bankers and lenders were optimistic that the home loan rates would increase to an average of six percent. The assumptions were based on rumors that Federal Reserve would raise its short-term rates as from next year. The move was expected to impact the mortgage rates by increasing them.
The assumption was, however, dealt a blow when stocks reduced from Monday till Wednesday. This was contrary to fears on global economic weaknesses due to threats of militias from the Middle East and the global spread of the deadly Ebla disease. As investors sought for safety of their hard earned dollars, they brought their money to the Treasury in large numbers. From the basic business know, high demand drives prices up, and as a result, the government bonds had to drop.
On Wednesday, the ten year mortgage plan traded at 1.91 percent, but rose to 2.14 percent by the end of the day. The yield would have continued trading low, were it not for a stock market rally that helped revive it. The rally saw the yields increase to 2.20 percent on Friday. This was a pretty sure sign that the time to re-finance was on.
Jonathan Smoke, an economist at Realtor.com, was quick to note that this might be the last time the rates are available. Even the slightest drops in mortgage rates can result in huge savings in the long run. According to an analysis by the Bank of America, a median priced home marked at $221,000 with a 0.5 percent rate decline can produce savings of up to $ 50 each month. Several savings are, however, needed to meet the re-financing costs.
Researchers at Brigham University and the University of Chicago found that approximately 20 percent of eligible homeowners failed to take advantage of the momentarily drop in the rates back in 2010. They ended up costing themselves about $11,500 in feasible savings. Those who missed the rates now have a chance again.
One economist from Quicken Loans firm, Mr. Bob Walters, said that savings made by taking advantage of such situations are crucial in re-financing. Requests for re-financing at Quicken loans increased in the past one week, but those with intentions of buying homes might not benefit. Aspiring homeowners take time budgeting and locating suitable houses in neighborhood of choice. To accomplish the two, buyers will probably take months whilst the low-rate period is just temporary. The low rates are a bonus and homeowners ought to swing into action and benefit from them.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/should-you-re-finance-your-home" title="Should You Re-Finance Your Home?" target="_blank"> Should You Re-Finance Your Home? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/mortgage-mistakes-that-could-cost-you-big-bucks" title="Mortgage Mistakes That Could Cost You Big Bucks" target="_blank"> Mortgage Mistakes That Could Cost You Big Bucks </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> 2014-10-22T00:56:00-07:002023-01-26T08:03:58-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33726Stock Begins Construction on Single Family Home Sites
<img style="float: left; margin: 10px;" title="Home Exterior" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/images/home-exterior_365.jpg" alt="Exterior of a home in Naples, Florida." width="365" height="244" />The Renaissance in South Fort Myers is a private, gated and master planned golf community. It is located near the Daniels Parkway Corridor. It is also known as one of the lowest density communities in that area. There are only 390 home sites in the community and these home sites are surrounded by vast nature preserves and lakes. There are many different neighborhoods inside the community. <br /><br />The two story clubhouse in the Renaissance Golf and Country Club is built in Mediterranean style. The club has excellent golf amenities. It features on site PGA professionals, a practice area, a pro shop as well as a 18 hole Arthur Hills Golf course. There are six red clay courts along with a full schedule of play on offer under the tennis program at the club. It also houses a fitness facility and a terraced sun deck. There is also a spa and a swimming pool overlooking the gardens and the driving range of the club. The pool area also offers food and beverage service.<br /><br />Stock Signature Homes has recently bought 20 home sites in the Via Lago, Monteverdi and Vittoria neighborhoods in the community. Stock is one of the preferred builders in the community. It offers both home site packages as well as homes in these three neighborhoods.<br /><br />Stock has already begun construction at these single family home sites. Stock is going to offer two furnished models with a total of seven different options for floor plan. The two models are called The Muirfield IV and The Ponte Vedra Grande.<br /><br />The Ponte Vedra Grande is a three-car garage property with total area of 5116 ft.². It covers a living area of 3525 ft.². This model features four bedrooms, a study and 4 1/2 bathrooms. There is also a screened and covered Lanai with an outdoor grill. There is also a living and dining room along with the family room. All of these are located next to the open island style kitchen.<br /><br />The Muirfield IV is also a three-car garage property with four bedrooms, a study and 3 1/2 bathrooms. It covers a total area of 4901 ft.² with living area of 3333 ft.². It features a dining room along with the private study and a great room. There is also a screened and covered Lanai with outdoor kitchen.<br /><br />One inventory home is under construction and one other is in permitting. The pricing of these houses start in the high $500s. <br /><br />Stock is a nationally renowned builder. It has been nominated for the top hundred list of national builders in the Builder magazine for the second year in a row. It has also won Builder of the Year award in 2013. This was the second time in five years that this award by the Collier Building Industry Association was given to Stock.<br /><br />Stock is very active in Collier and Lee counties. Currently, it has over 300 homes under construction in various phases across 13 communities in the area. In addition to single family homes, they also have coach homes, custom-built estate homes, twin Villas, town homes, casitas and flats. The prices of these homes range from the lowly $200s to above $7 million.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/lee-collier-home-prices-rebound-but-have-yet-to-reach-peak" title="Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak." target="_blank"> Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak. </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/are-you-a-homeowner-who-is-looking-to-remodel-your-house-for-selli" title="Looking to Remodel Your House for Selling?" target="_blank"> Looking to Remodel Your House for Selling? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/curb-appeal-for-winter" title="Curb Appeal for Winter" target="_blank"> Curb Appeal for Winter </a> 2014-10-01T21:47:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:00-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33727Fewer Homes Purchased in August
<img style="font-size: 12px; float: left; margin: 10px;" title="Agents" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/images/agents_223.png" alt="Agents with giant key" width="223" height="210" />According to statistics, during the month of August, only a few Americans bought homes as compared to the previous months.
Likewise, according to the National Association of Realtors, the sales of existing homes dramatically fell by 1.8 percent and the annual rate seasonally adjusted to 5.05 million. This resulted in a four-month streak of gains as the sales from August to July dramatically fell and it was something unexpected.
Moreover, as compared to last year, where there was a 7 percent of August purchases, it went down to 12 percent and even the investors became skeptical and refused to buy properties, because they're afraid to experience the effects of housing busts, as well as recession.
In a nutshell, it has been noted that the pace of home sales continues to drop by 5.3 percent every year.
For analysts, the housing sales that triggered the recession continues to go downhill. In fact, even the Americans who own homes gradually became lesser over the year, and this could be the result of the 5-year recovery that took place. Thus, more and more Americans opt for renting homes, in order to prevent the negative drawbacks brought by the recession. With that, the ownership rate fell to 64.7 percent, from 69.2 percent in 2004.
This year, most sales were held by the winter storms. However, throughout the summer, it slowly accelerated once again as the mortgage rates continue to increase. This kind of combination didn't have a good effect on the house sales, but it just made it worse. Furthermore, the rising prices that happened last year and the weak income growth threatened a lot of buyers, that from the average 40 percent, it went down to 29 percent.
However, over the past 12 months, it has been noted that the median sales price of $219,800 rose up by 4.8 percent, but it slightly slipped down once again during August. This effect continues to take place since last year and the annual sale of 5.5 million remained stable. A lot of people perceive that the home sales are the missing link for a solid economic recovery, but the problem is that it continues to disappoint the market according to analysts.
Nonetheless, indicators heading into the fall and winter gave a mixed impression on the real estate.
As for the month of August, the home construction plunged by 14.4 percent and it's considered to be relatively low as compared to the prior month. This was the result of a drop-off in building apartment complexes. Though, it's also been said that even the single-family home construction also fell by 2.4 percent.
According to the National Association of Home Builders and Wells Fargo, the sentiment index climbed in September, and it reached the highest point during November.
Despite this positive change, the incomes stay weak, making it more complicated for buyers to save for a down payment. Additionally, according to the Census Bureau, the median household income was around $51,939 last year and it's 8 percent lower as compared to 2007-- when the recession took place.
Lastly, based on the company, Freddie Mac, the average rate of mortgage rose to 4.23 percent from 4.12 percent. Though this statistic remains unstable.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/twin-eagles-ytd-sales-approaching-80-million" title="Twin Eagles YTD sales approaching $80 million" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles YTD sales approaching $80 million </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/new-home-market-outlook-positive-for-2014" title="New Home Market Outlook Positive for 2014" target="_blank"> New Home Market Outlook Positive for 2014 </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/lee-collier-home-prices-rebound-but-have-yet-to-reach-peak" title="Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak." target="_blank"> Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak. </a> 2014-09-23T23:17:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:02-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33728Should You Re-Finance Your Home?<img style="font-size: 12px; float: left; margin: 10px;" title="Buyers With Lender" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/images/lender-with-buyers_360.png" alt="Lender sitting with buyers." width="360" height="238" />Refinancing mortgages can either be good or bad depending on one’s financial situation. Various pros and cons need to be looked at carefully to so that one can arrive at the right decision. What exactly makes people want to refinance their mortgages? Looking back to the beginning of year 2012, the interest rates fell to an historic low. This led to many homeowners refinancing their mortgages. Refinancing a mortgage simply means getting a new mortgage to replace the old one. Better interest rates and loan terms are the main reasons making people refinance their mortgages.
The interest rates might have gone high slightly but the figures still remain close to what people experienced in the year 2012. This may still prompt one to change their current mortgage with better options. But this is not the case most of the time. One has to consider his or her current financial situation before deciding to make any decisions.
Lets have a look at the benefits and drawbacks of refinancing so that people can be able to make an enlightened decision when it comes to refinancing their current mortgages.
What are the Benefits?
1 One can quickly pay off the mortgage in a short duration. This is possible if the interest rates become low. One is capable of getting a mortgage with a short payment period. Such mortgages can be paid off quickly as the monthly payment does not change much.
2 If refinancing will give you a low interest rate, you will automatically end up saving some extra cash that could have been used to pay the loan. Who doesn't want to have more money in the bank? But then one has to be careful on how to spend the extra cash. Otherwise you will not see the real benefit of refinancing. Remember this extra cash was meant to pay a loan you took for your home. You can go ahead and use the money to pay other loans like the student loan, payment of debt or just save it p for emergencies.
3 Refinancing can also give you access to more cash. Refinancing your loan for more than what you owe will automatically give you extra cash. This money can further be used to make renovation to the home so that you can increase its value or even choose to pay your child college fees. If there is any bad debt, then the money can be used to pay it off. But never go refinancing so that you can pay debts. This might give you more debts to pay if there is no other plan to pay your debts.
4 Your mortgage payment can increase if you have an adjustable rate mortgage. Refinancing can give you a fixed rate which can end up saving a lot of cash due to changes in your rates. This way, you are assured of not having any hiking charges that you never expected in future.
Disadvantages of refinancing
1 Additional costs are created whenever people look to refinance. The fees for applying and processing your application is an additional cost that could have been spent somewhere else. There are other charges that will come up including the title searches, appraisal, credit reports and discount points. Refinancing can only work well for you if you don't plan to move within the next 7 years. Closing costs of refinancing in 2012 alone was $3,754 on $200,000 loans.
2 You might be putting your home at risk without actually knowing. You should not refinance so that you can pay some outstanding debts somewhere. This might not work and you may end up lacking ways to generate money to pay your monthly loans. There must be sure a plan on how to repay the mortgage or else you might end up getting numerous collection calls. this might work bad for you in the long run as your credit report might be ruined making it hard for you to get any loans in future. You may eventually end up losing your home if you cannot pay as agreed.
Conclusion
It is always advisable to talk to your current lender before considering refinancing. If they don't require a title search, they might help you save. You can even pay your loan for the next 12 months before refinancing to give you some space when paying. Generally refinancing can be helpful if done with the right reasons. It is also advised to look at all your lenders at the same time to avoid damaging your credit report. Lower payments or better paying terms can be helpful when it comes to seeking for more loans in future.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/mortgage-mistakes-that-could-cost-you-big-bucks" title="Mortgage Mistakes That Could Cost You Big Bucks" target="_blank"> Mortgage Mistakes That Could Cost You Big Bucks </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/first-time-home-buying" title="Are You Ready For Home Ownership?" target="_blank"> Are You Ready For Home Ownership? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/how-to-ensure-that-youll-have-enough-for-the-down-payment-on-your-" title="How To Ensure That You'll Have The Down Payment On Your Next Home" target="_blank"> How To Ensure That You'll Have The Down Payment On Your Next Home </a> 2014-09-22T01:52:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:05-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33729Mortgage Mistakes That Could Cost You Big Bucks
<img style="font-size: 12px; margin: 10px; float: left;" title="Couple counting money" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/images/couple_counting_money_271.jpg" alt="Financial Hardship" width="200" height="271" />Its not uncommon for people from different backgrounds in life to make financial mistakes. From making a purchase due to impulse buying to being sold car rental insurance or an extended warranty, there is a large host of things that may not be the most suitable for those who are trying to save money by reducing the amount that they want to spend.ˇ<br />This said, there are also larger purchases that can be made. All of which can signify that the person that is doing the buying can also make huge mistakes when they are purchasing major items like a home for the family to reside in. Which means, it is essential for buyers to make sure that they are doing the proper amount of research prior to signing on the dotted line. To avoid these and other related issues, here are four mistakes that can be made when purchasing a new home.ˇ
Failing to Become an Expert at Your Credit Report
Because the credit scores plays a vital role in purchasing a home, it is essential for the home buyer to understand how their credit score will impact the overall purchase. In fact, before a potential home buyer is pre-approved for their home loan, they will need to meet a certain benchmark number. This benchmark number may also vary greatly from one lender to another since it is based on a wide variety of different factors. For instance, the home buyer may not receive the best interest rates from the lender that they trying to get the loan from because of their low credit score and loan type.ˇ<br />Since the loan amounts and interest rates can easily become confusing without the proper understanding of the credit score and interest rates, people who do not understand how they work may end up paying the highest interest to the lender. As a result, the buyer may end up with a large monthly mortgage amount that they cannot afford. On the other hand, when the buyer does understand how the credit score affects the overall price of the mortgage, they can save thousands of dollars. For instance, if the buyer of the home agrees to pay 5.5 percent on a $350,000 mortgage (fixed rated) instead of a low rate of 4.5, they can spend as much $200 more a month in interest. This is essential knowledge that each buyer should know since the interest rates are normally determined by a low or high credit score rating.
Not Exploring Your Options
In addition to failing to understand the actual value of the credit score, some home buyers may not explore all of options that they have available to them. Which means, in cases where the homebuyer may not want to wait until their credit score is higher, they may also have the option of obtaining a loan from FHA or VA. Typically, these types of mortgages are known as less expensive because they are backed by the government, when the buyer can qualify. For instance, there are millions of service members and veterans that are eligible for these kinds of mortgages. As a result, some home buyers may find that they may not need a down payment to obtain a VA loan for their home. Because the government gives these individuals great breaks, they can also buy a home with a lower credit score, no down payment and no mortgage insurance. These breaks are not provided in the conventional loans that people seek to secure.<br />ˇTrying to Save Money and Time by Eliminating the Home Inspection<br />One drawback to government loans is home inspections are not mandatory. Therefore, they can also be risky when trying making a sound decision about the purchase. Avoiding these concerns, however, can be completely eliminated by hiring a professional inspector to do a thorough job. Also, even though there may problems that arise in the home, people can also seek to renegotiate the price so that the repairs can be made without having to pay them out of pocket.
Purchasing Too Much Home
Another huge mistake that can be made when purchasing a new home is buying too much home. This mistake normally occurs when the buyer does not review the debt to income ratio for their situation closely. For instance, many times the lender may choose to approve a largest amount for the home that the person is buying. However, it is essential for the buyer to know and understand when the amount that they have been approved for may be more than they really need to live comfortably.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/first-time-home-buying" title="First Time Home Buying. Are You Ready for Home Ownership?" target="_blank"> First Time Home Buying. Are You Ready for Home Ownership? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/how-to-ensure-that-youll-have-enough-for-the-down-payment-on-your-" title="How To Ensure That You'll Have The Down Payment On Your Next Home" target="_blank"> How To Ensure That You'll Have The Down Payment On Your Next Home </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/about-50-of-all-home-sales-are-all-cas" title="About 50% Of All Home Sales Are All-Cash?" target="_blank"> About 50% Of All Home Sales Are All-Cash? </a> 2014-09-04T22:46:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:07-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33730Upcoming September Events<img style="font-size: 12px; margin: 10px; float: left;" title="People at Beach in Naples, Florida" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/images/people-at-beach_200.png" alt="Naples Florida Beaches" width="200" height="133" />We have a number of exciting events coming in throughout Delnor Wiggins State Park on <a title="Vanderbilt Beach in Naples, Florida." href="http://www.vanderbiltbeach.com" target="_blank">Vanderbilt Beach</a> in September. These are exciting events that are held in the morning and are free to people of all ages with your park admission.
On Thursday the 4th we will be highlighting gopher tortoises. These are big keystone species that are protective of environments. You will learn about how valuable they are to our environment in this session.
We'll talk about shorebirds on Saturday the 6th. It's all a part of World Shorebird Day. Shorebirds can be found on many beach spots; this session will teach you how to identify different shorebirds. You can bring a bird guide and binoculars with if desired.
Next, on Thursday the 11th we will cover sea turtles. Sea turtles are amazing and the loggerhead is truly amazing. You will learn about their nesting processes and how their bodies are built. You will be amazed at the skulls and carapaces that we have to display.
If you love spiders then you will enjoy our presentation on Thursday the 18th. We'll be presenting spiders of all sorts including many of the nearly 900 different species that you can find here in the Sunshine State. Don't be afraid to bring someone who might be wary of spiders as that person will learn that spiders really are important to our ecosystem and aren't going to be threats in any home.
Our last event of the month will be on Thursday the 25th when we head out to a barrier island to learn about maritime hammock plants and how they function in today's ecosystems. This activity will bring you up close to the many amazing features of barrier islands and how they are designed. Be sure to bring a water bottle, easy to wear clothes and plenty of sunscreen for this experience.
All activities start at 9:30 AM except on September 6; the shoreboard presentation will start at 9 AM.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/this-weekend-at-a-glance" title="This weekend at a Glance" target="_blank"> This weekend at a Glance </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/february-2014-events" title="February 2014 Events" target="_blank"> February 2014 Events </a> 2014-09-02T21:42:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:10-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33731Grill Master Tools for a Great Labor Day<img style="font-size: 12px; float: left; margin: 10px;" title="Grill Tools" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/equity-labor-day-grilling_200.png" alt="Equity Realty Grill Tips Picture" width="200" height="133" />In the world of technology, high-tech and low-tech gadgets are simplifying the way we do barbecuing more than ever before. New brands of Green Mountain Grills are developed to connect to WI-FI and synchronize using a Smartphone application that enables grillers to sit within and regulate the temperature to ensure that you do not miss a moment of your favorite football game.
ìIt is the best tool for the beer and game day. When you do not want cooking to distract you,î says Mike Tucker, the proprietor of Hawgeyes BBQ, Ankeny, Iowa
A small store operating within a huge online customer-base Hawgeyes BBQ sells tools, rubs and sauces. Small and big producers from around the country make use of Hawgeyes BBQ as a way to advertise themselves and make a mark within the busy world of barbecue. According to Tucker, Thermapen is his favorite tool owing to its ìinstantî capability to check meat temperature without pocking huge holes in the food.
With unique heat-resistant gloves, you can grill meat hands-on while it is still cooking. At times, this is better compared to the use of spatulas and thongs according to Tucker.
Smoke pistols allow your meat to have a wood-smoked taste without using a wood-burning grill. It is possible for grillers to season their BBQ in different flavors including mesquite, cherry, hickory, pecan or oak wood. The gadget can also be used in ovens that are well-ventilated. However, if you are using wood-burning grill and real wood, the best taste for new grills are peach, plum or cherry. Hickory and mesquite can taste too harsh if used incorrectly.
For sweetness and shine, spray apple juice with a clean spray bottle to get quick aroma that will help maintain the moisture in your proteins such as fish while on the grill.
ìWith barbecue, everything is just but an experiment, and therefore there isnít anything like rights and wrongs except you completely mess up the entire projectî Tucker says.
Tucker recommends gadgets such as chili pepper grilling collection for vegetarian grillers if you want to cook a pepper corer and stuffed jalapenos to take those wonderful seeds.
Grills such as Big Green Egg could be used for cooking more foods in addition to meat including firing flatbreads on the flat ceramic layer on the grill since it can get sufficiently hot for 5-minute pizzas. However, the Big Green Egg can burn a chefís hair if he/she gets very close, notes Tucker. So be cautious when grilling.
Even with the increasing number of gadgets, some cooks who want to make grilling easier still like nurturing the fire, socializing with acquaintances, and doing it in the old style - You normally can never miss it if you stick with a traditional charcoal grill.2014-09-01T23:08:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:12-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33732Looking to Remodel Your House for Selling?<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/40/home-improvement-ideas.jpg" alt="" width="256" height="197" />If you are, then the recently released <a title="2014 Cost Vs Value Report" href="http://mydigimag.rrd.com/publication/?i=191951" target="_blank">2014 Cost versus Value report</a> by Remodeling Magazine will help you a lot in deciding on the remodeling projects as it clearly lays out the return provided by various home remodeling projects.
The 2014 report breaks the myth that investing in remodeling the house for selling purposes is always a winning proposition. In fact, nothing is further from the truth as on an average homeowner recovers only $.60 for each dollar spent on remodeling. Also, majority of the remodeling projects which provide excellent ROI are not the shiny glamorous ones you'll usually watch on TV like kitchen or bathroom remodeling.
The projects with the highest average return on investment include the practical but unglamorous ones such as replacement of old siding, garage door, old windows, front door and addition of a wood deck. We discuss below the remodeling projects which allow the homeowner to recoup the maximum percentage of their investment.
Mid-range Projects Recoup the Biggest Share of Remodeling Investment
The report released by the Remodeling Magazine tells a very different story when it comes to recouping remodeling investment. On an average, a homeowner is likely to get a better return on investment for spending money on items which give the home a facelift and contribute to the overall aesthetic.
The statistics in the report state that replacing an old door with the new shiny mid-range steel door which comes with a dual pane half glass panel as well as a new lockset provides highest return value at 96.6% of the cost. A new mid range steel door costs an average of $1162 but the seller is likely to get back an average of $1122 while selling. Similarly, a garage door replacement costing $1534 will allow the homeowner to get back $1283 on an average. Overall, these projects are not very costly and one does not need to take an additional home-equity loan to get these projects done. However, these small projects add a lot to the curb appeal.
Diana George of the reality brokerage firm Vault Realty Group based in Oakland, says that the most important factor in selling a house is the curb appeal. If the house does not look well kept on the outside, it gives an impression that things are not good on the inside too and buyers are not interested in such houses.
Wood Deck adds a lot to the curb appeal but it is a bit costly. On an average, it will cost a homeowner $9539 to add a 16 x 20 wood deck but the recovery is close to 87% of the cost. Replacing the old windows also adds a lot of value to the house. On an average, replacing 10 numbers of old 3 x 5 Windows with new wooden windows will cost around $11,000 or around $10,000 for vinyl but a homeowner will be able to recover close to 79% of this investment while selling the house.
Another project which provides a decent recovery on investment made is vinyl sliding which costs approximately $11,475 for 1250 ft.² but a homeowner is likely to recover close to $8975 while selling the house.
Costly Remodeling Projects
If you do have a bit of money to spend or can conjure up the home-equity loan to finance the home improvement, then spending money on basement remodeling and attic bedrooms is still relatively worthwhile. These projects may cost a lot but these are still the cheapest way to increase the usable square footage of the house.
The old adage that kitchen and bathroom remodeling sell houses is still true but you are not going to double your investment with such upgrades. Upgrading a 200 ft.² kitchen costs approximately $18,856 on an average but a homeowner with likely recover close to 82% of this investment. However, the recovery percentage keeps going down as the remodeling prices keep going up. It is estimated that a major kitchen remodel costs an average of $54,909 but a homeowner only recovers approximately 74% of this investment. Similarly bathroom remodel of a 5 x 7 space costs $16,128 on an average but the recovery is approximately close to 72%.
Therefore, one should think a lot before financing the above costly remodeling projects using home equity as almost all the above projects are going to give a negative return.
It is also important to keep in mind that the above costs are average costs and ROI may turn positive in case you are able to get the work done at a lower cost than above. Geographic region, size and scope of project and quality of finish affect the cost as well as the selling price.
Jeff Dumas of Tempe says that it is practical to do bathroom upgrades at minimal cost with materials which look expensive but do not cost too much. He says that an investment of $1500 to $2000 can provide a new tub, new vanity, new toilet, floor tiles for a bathroom remodel and the return on such low investment is amazing.
Remodeling Projects with Biggest Losses
Some of the remodeling projects lose so much money that these should never be initiated except in special cases. Remodeling Magazine suggests that spending money on a roof replacement and generator is not a good investment. On an average, money spent on a generator is only likely to provide back 67% of its value and similarly roof replacement is also likely to give back only 67% of the money spent.
Bathroom additions, sunroom additions and Master Suite additions are also part of the projects which are expensive and take a lot of time but provide the least value when selling the house. Also, a Home Office remodel is not worth it as on an average, a homeowner is likely to do recover less than 50% of the money spent on that remodel.
However, these projects do make sense in areas where such additions are in high demand. Addition of generator in storm prone areas in Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas will provide recoupment of approximately 86% of the cost.
Exceptional Cases
There are always exceptions to the rules. You may see a positive return on your remodeling investment in case the area you live in is on fire (in terms of property valuations and sales) and the type of remodeling projects you have invested in are popular. It is estimated that San Francisco homeowners are likely to see a positive return on investments made in basement remodeling, kitchen remodeling and addition of attic bedroom.
Also, making some additions or changes to your house which brings it up to the standards of the other homes in your locality will most likely result in a positive return on investment.
Bottom Line
The bottom line here is that you need to look at real numbers while making home improvement decisions. Deciding to spend money on remodeling projects based on personal taste, emotions or TV shows without paying any heed to the real estate environment in your neighborhood will most likely result in waste of your money.
Therefore, it is always preferable to consult a real estate agent who is aware of the realities in the local market and knows what sells and what not. It is also recommended to consult the Cost versus Value report averages for your particular region and only spend money on the upgrades which are likely to bring you the highest return.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/simple-guide-for-not-so-simple-home-improvements" title="Simple Guide for Not-So-Simple Home Improvements" target="_blank"> Simple Guide for Not-So-Simple Home Improvements </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/its-not-magic-but-you-can-make-your-small-space-look-bigger" title="It’s Not Magic, But You Can Make Your Small Space Look Bigger" target="_blank"> It’s Not Magic, But You Can Make Your Small Space Look Bigger </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/get-creative-with-your-dining-roo" title="Get Creative With Your Dining Room" target="_blank"> Get Creative With Your Dining Room </a> 2014-08-21T21:21:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:14-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33733Twin Eagles YTD sales approaching $80 million<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/39/twin-eagles.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" />Twin Eagles is a 1,115 acre gated community. It is being developed by the Ronto Group in North Naples. But, the question is, what exactly attract homebuyers to Twin Eagles? Its tranquil natural setting, the diverse luxury product offering, and also an array of amenities which include 2 championship golf courses always attract homebuyers to this community.
It reported 8 closed new construction transactions worth 4,028,279 USD. Also, eight new construction contracts, pending, valued at 6,534,856 USD were processed during the month of July. The July activity is impressive. It increased <a title="Twin Eagles" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles/">Twin Eagles</a>` year-to-date pending and closed new construction sales to a total of 78,384,867 USD.
The July sales activity of Twin Eagles really reflected the popularity of its own diverse new home product choices which range from carriage homes priced starting in the mid $200s to sprawling estate residences over 2 million USD. This includes golf membership.
Twin Eagles` <a title="Hedgestone" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/hedgestone/">Hedgestone</a> neighborhood features custom designed residence(s) by Divco Construction Corporation, A.R.B.C. Arthur Rutenberg Homes, and also Stock Signatures Homes which range from 2,800 – 5,000 sq. ft on home sites measuring ninety (90) ft wide and one hundred and sixty (160) ft deep. Lot packages and custom home are priced at 1.2 million USD. In Hedgestone, 4 furnished residences are always available for viewing.
In Hedgestone, Divco`s La Salle model offers 3,616 sq. ft under air. The excellent room floor plan include a study, dining room, four bedroom, an island kitchen which has a dinette, two half baths and four full baths, fireplace, an outdoor living area which has a summer kitchen, spa and pool, and a 3-car garage. The floor plan of this room is base priced at 878,100 USD. However, the model, Divco`s La Salle model, is provided at 1,524,900 USD.
A.R.B.C. Arthur Rutenberg Homes` Bermuda model features an excellent room floor plan which measures 3,438 sq. ft under air. This great room plan, Bermuda plan, includes three baths, bonus room, a 3-car garage, a den, dining area and island kitchen, and three bedrooms. Also, the outdoor living room features a cabana which has a fire pit, summer kitchen, a pool with sun shelf & a spa, and a conversation area. This model, Bermuda model, has been sold and is also available for you to view through a lease-back. Floor plan of the great room is base priced at 999,400 USD.
Stock`s Ponte Vedra Grande model offers 3,525 sq. ft under air. The floor plan includes formal dining and living rooms, four bedrooms, a study, four and half baths, a family room which opens to lanai which is covered, a double island kitchen and breakfast nook, a summer kitchen and a dining area, an outdoor sitting area off the master bedroom and a conversation area. The following are some other features. They include a custom designed spa and pool, a wet bar in the living room, and a 3-car garage. This model is provided at 1,457,980 USD. The floor plan is priced at 659,990 USD.
The <a title="Wicklow" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/wicklow/">Wicklow</a> neighborhood features 2,800 to 3,100 sq. ft under air residences by Stock Signatures Homes. In Wicklow, home sites measures 75-ft by 160-ft and offer golf course and water views.
Stock`s fully furnished Greenbriar, in Wicklow, is open for purchase and viewing. The 2,949 sq. ft under air residences is priced at 1,144,220 USD. This includes options, furnishings, and upgrades.
Stock`s Scottsdale II model, in Wicklow, has sold and always remain open for you to view through a lease-back. It is base-priced at 599,990 USD. The Scottsdale II, which is 2,719 sq. ft, includes an open floor plan which has a living room and a dining room which open to a covered lanai with an optional pool and outdoor kitchen. Also, the plan features a kitchen which has a bar seating and also breakfast nook, three full-baths, a study, a 3-car garage, three bedrooms, and an option wet bar.
In Twin Eagles <a title="Covent Garden" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/covent-garden/">Covent Garden</a> neighborhood, carriage residence(s) by Pulte Homes are featured. Carriage homes includes the 1,654 sq. ft Cheshire floor plan which offers fourth bedroom or a den, two bedrooms, island kitchen and a great room, two baths, a 2-car garage, and a screened lanai.
The 2nd-floor Tourmaline plan include 2,297 sq. ft of air-conditioned space which has three bedrooms, a den or a fourth bedroom, two-and-a-half baths, formal dining room, a large excellent room which opens to a screened lanai, a breakfast nook and kitchen, and a 2-car garage.
Covent Garden carriage residences by Pulte Homes are priced from mid $200s to mid $300s. This also includes a golf membership. Pulte`s Tourmaline and Cheshire models are currently open for viewing.
Twin Eagles neighborhood offers 1,600 to 2,250 sq. ft residences by Lennar Corporation on 53-ft home sites which is priced from $400s to 525,000 USD.
Lennar Isabella model encompasses 2,246 sq. ft with a den which can serve also as a fourth bedroom, a 2-car garage, three bedrooms, island kitchen and an excellent (great) room, and also outdoor living area which has a summer kitchen which is optional.
In Fenhurst, residences come with a spa package and pool among other features. Fenhurst provides an ideal single family Naples pied-A –terre. Golf membership is included in the purchase price.
The Wisteria neighborhood features, 1- and 2-story residences by Stock Signature Homes and Minto ranging from 2,500 – 3,800 sq. ft on 65-ft home sites. Homes by Minto are actually priced from mid $500s to 1 million USD. Stock is in the final planning stages for the construction of 2 new model residences in Wisteria and is offering lot package and a home priced in the low $700s.
Lockford showcases seven, 2,600 to 3,800 sq. ft 1- and 2-story floor plan(s) by Minto on 60-ft home sites priced from mid $500s to 1 million USD. It will include forty two (42) residences at build-out and also twenty eight (28) buildable home sites remain available. Apart from that, each site also has Twin Eagles signature golf course, preserve, and water views. The Turnberry Grand and Prestwick Grand furnished Minto residences are open in Lockford.
In <a title="Hollybrook" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/hollybrook/">Hollybrook</a>, only five buildable home sites are still available. Hollybrook showcases 6 floor plans by Minto which range from 2,600 – 3,000 sq. ft and are base-priced from $600s - the low $900s. Home sites in Hollybrook at Twin Eagles are 67-ft wide and 147-ft deep. Neighborhood will include 51 residences at built-out.
Generally, the tranquil natural setting, the diverse luxury product offering, and also an array of amenities which include 2 championship golf courses always attract homebuyers to Twin Eagles. The July activity is impressive. It increased Twin Eagles` year-to-date pending and closed new construction sales to a total of 78,384,867 USD. Therefore, Twin Eagles YTD sales are approaching $80 million.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles-new-construction" title="Twin Eagles New Construction" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles New Construction </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles-community-info" title="Twin Eagles Community Info" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles Community Info </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles-subdivisions" title="Twin Eagles Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles Subdivisions </a> 2014-08-19T21:51:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:16-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33734Year To Date Sales of About $31.5 Million Reported by Grey Oaks
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/38/greyoak.jpg" alt="Grey Oaks Country Club" width="450" height="246" />From the 1st of January to June 30 of 2014, $31,482,330 dollars have been processed at Grey Oaks Country Club in transactions. These transactions were the result of twenty-three custom end-user new-build home, resale home, furnish model and unfurnished move-in ready residence sales, just as Grey Oakes Royalty has reported. From January to June (a period of six months), three new residences of the fully-furnish model were introduced in the neighborhood called Torino.
Opportunities in Traditions
In the same period of time, a new construction product was approaching sell out in the neighborhood called Traditions. In Grey Oaks, the number of new-built opportunities is becoming lower. Because of this, there is a final chance for people to buy new residences in these two neighborhoods. Traditions is a neighborhood with sixty coach homes and sixty-two luxury villas being constructed by CC Devco and Halstatt Partnership in the Grey Oaks Country Club.
The Sproul families own the Halstatt Partnership from Naples, which has made the Greys Oaks Country Club. CC Devco is a company from Coral Gables (Florida) dealing with real estate investments and development. In Traditions, there are only seven occasions left for buying villa residences. In these seven opportunities, the following type of residences are included: a complete move-in ready residence that is unfurnished, a furnished model residence, a site meant for building one villa, another move-in ready residence that is going to be finished soon and three move-in ready villas that are built right now.
There are fifteen coach homes, from which people can get four move-in ready residences that are not finished yet, two finished move-in ready homes (unfurnished), eight coach homes (from two constructions that are about to be made) and a furnished model. There are four floor plans (one-story and two-story) that people can find in the villas from Traditions. The square feet base ranges between 2,642 and 4,776 at a price that is ranged between 743,000 and 910,000 dollars. Three elevations are included for every one of the following plans: Bregante, Doral, Alegria and Carillo.
Alegria
You can get a fully-furnished villa with the Alegria plan right away and occupy it immediately after you buy it. The Alegria plan of 2,642 square foot provides two bedrooms, an island kitchen, a family room, dining rooms, formal living rooms, an outdoor kitchen, an outdoor living area, a pool and a spa, a garage for two cars and another garage for golf carts. An Alegria model with furniture can be occupied right away, but you will have to pay 1,195,000 dollars.
Any furnishing, optional items, or upgrades are included in this price. You will get a Global Chic interior that provides a calm and organized environment, with colors like rice paper ivory, pewter gray and papyrus beige. Another option is a move-in ready Alegria home (eastern exposure) that is unfurnished and has a water view. This home is finished and you can find it at a price of 955,024 dollars. Any additional options or upgrades are included in this price. You can buy this Alegria residence immediately and occupy it right away, because it is finished.
Doral and Bregante
A Doral unfurnished home will be finished soon and its price will be of 1,131,921 dollars. Right now, there are two move-in ready homes that are in the construction phase. These three residences don’t have a price yet: two Bregante and one Doral. The 3,319 square feet of the Bregante villa has three bedrooms, dining rooms and formal living rooms, one den, a family room, three-and-a-half baths, an outdoor living area, two types of garages (for two cars and golf carts), an island kitchen and a pool. The neighborhood has been enhanced with the luxurious coach home product of Traditions.
Pinehurst
The2,557 square feet of the Pinehurst first floor has three bedrooms, one den, three-and-a-half baths, one master suite featuring a private covered terrace, a detailed master bath and walk-in closets. There is an additional covered terrace, but off the living room. Each guest bedroom has coffered ceiling, walk-in closets and private baths. You can also benefit from two garages (one for two cars and the other one for golf car storage). You can get such a residence with optional features and upgrades at a price of 690,203 dollars.
Riviera
Another floor plan is Riviera and has 3,170 square feet (second floor). It features five outdoor balconies that are covered, a specific golf parking place, a two-car garage, three bedrooms, one den, three-and-a-half baths, a formal dining room, a huge living room and an island kitchen (gourmet). Along with the private balcony, there is also a double vanity bath, on sitting room and large walk-in closets. There is one private bath in every guest bedroom, but also a covered balcony and a walk-in closet. The Riviera model is fully-furnished and can be bought immediately for occupancy purposes. The price for this model is of 935,000 dollars. You can also acquire move-in ready Riviera homes with optional features and upgrades for the price of 750,922 dollars.
Opportunities in Torino
Grey Oaks also has in development fifty-four villa residences of one-story and two stories in the Torino parcel, which is the last one developed. There are three move-in ready and unfurnished villas built right now and three furnished that are already opened. In the rest of the sites, residences can be constructed by CC Devco and Halstatt Partnership. The number of home sites is twenty-six. The floor plans for one-story and two-story Torino villas can be between 3,032 and 4,311 square fit. There are two front elevations for every of the three plans. The main price is not more than 900 dollars. The interior of the new Torino residences is designed by Design West in Naples. Upgraded features will be available on three move-in ready homes from Torino until the end of the summer.
Camargo
Camargo is a two story floor plan of 4,311 square feet and features formal living rooms, dining rooms, four bedrooms, one den, one gourmet island kitchen, three-and-a-half bath, one garage for two cars and dedicated areas for golf carts, a family room, one breakfast nook and one upstairs loft. You can have a sitting area in the main bedroom.
Biella
Biella is another plan that is one-story and has 3,738 square feet, four-and-a-half baths, four bedrooms, dining rooms, formal living rooms, one den, one gourmet island kitchen, a breakfast area, a family room and the usual two car garage featuring a dedicated storage area for golf carts. You can have a view at the pool and the outdoor area from the sitting place in the main bedroom.
Arenas
One final great room plan is Arenas, which has 3,032 squares fit, three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, an entry pavilion and a courtyard. There are also other features involved, such as one formal dining room, a den, a two car garage with special golf carts storage and a gourmet island kitchen. The sliders can offer an opening to the pool and a covered outdoor terrace. If you don’t know where Grey Oaks is, you can go to the north of the Golden Gate Parkway while you are in Naples.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks" title="Grey Oaks Real Estate" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks-condos" title="Grey Oaks Condos" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Condos </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/traditions" title="Traditions Real Estate in Grey Oaks" target="_blank"> Traditions Real Estate in Grey Oaks </a> 2014-07-24T21:46:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:18-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33735The Camargo opens in Torino<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/37/camargo-at-grey-oaks.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="176" />The new Camargo furnished villa model is now open and can be viewed by interested parties as announced by Grey Oaks Realty. The two-story villa stands on a whole 4,311 square foot of land. It is located at the Grey Oaks Country Club, in the Torino neighborhood.
The Camargo is among three others villas that have been completed in the same neighborhood. Their interiors were exclusively designed by Design West. The vision here is to have a collection of luxury villas which will consist of both one story and two-story houses.
The floor plans for the one and two-story villas range from 3,032 to 4,311 respectively. Three villas that will not be furnished are under construction with completion slated for close to the end of summer.
The Camargo is going for a starting price of $998,900. Part of its remarkable features include a master suite on every floor, 2 guest bedrooms, a formal living room and dining room, a loft in the second floor, a large kitchen, three and a half bathrooms, and a spacious den. Part of its outdoor includes a garage that can accommodate two cars, a pool, spa, a covered lanai and a place to store your golf cart. There’s also an optional outdoor kitchen and wine room.
The Camargo is a true reflection of the remarkable work of Dominque Lamanna, an interior designer at Design West. The interior décor give the villa a Ralph-Lauren kind of inspired look. Lamanna’s great contrast of bright and light tones of color with pops of bright coral and blue is truly splendid. The tones go well with the earthly colors of the hardwood floors. The dining room’s elegance is brought out by a beautiful stone piece. Lamanna adds other details that incorporate molding, wainscoting, paneling and highlighting the beamed ceilings. All these contribute to the magnificent interior of the Camargo. Once inside it, you will immediately get that rustic and elegant feeling Ralph Lauren is well known for.
The first thing that will catch your eye once you step into the Camargo is the white staircase that is fully-paneled. Its railings are made of silver metal and espresso while the treads are dark hard wood. Just opposite the staircase lies a display shelf full of collectibles. These include seaside and coral accessories. An iron-framed mirror is placed on a travertine console. This brings out the rustic nature of the villa.
As you look onto your right once you enter the villa, you will see the den. It features dark wooden floors and horizontal moldings in its white walls which have soft brown insets made from grass cloth. The molding contrasts beautifully with the dark tones of a built-in shelf and the grass cloth. Ottomans that are made from animal prints are stored in the built in. The grass cloth is also extended to the ceiling tray. The richness of the room is emphasized by light brown wall colors, a brown woven grass cloth rug and various leather details.
The living room is large, formal and opens to a breathtaking view of Torino’s amazing backgrounds. It has a beautiful ceiling that has white bead board insets and dark beams. Lamanna has tastefully furnished it with a navy blue sofa accented by blue, cream and white pillows, rustic armchairs with a blue patterned fabric, a linen cocktail table and a rug area that is layered. The rug area consists of a sisal rug covered with a light animal print.
The family room is furnished with a built in wall unit, a cocktail table that is traditionally. curved, an accent chair made from a bold blue fabric and bamboo frame and a sectional sofa that is creamy white in color. This room also has brown wooden floors and a white beam ceiling.
If there is one room that makes the Camargo stand out from the rest of the villas is its huge island kitchen. The brightly polished countertops are made from shell stone. Its nautical theme is further enhanced by the dark bar stools, white cabinets and the lantern lighting fixtures suspended over the island. A glass backsplash that is very light and neutral toned gives the island kitchen a contemporary and streamlined look.
The living area has a rectangular table that is richly toned. It can sit up to 8 people in its eclectic bamboo chairs. There is also a demi loon server and a coral shaped mirror to compliment the magnificent setting of the table. The traditional element of the room is brought out by a polished chrome chandelier. It is further enhanced by two white columns and dark blue walls.
The master suite’s dark wood furnishings contrast perfectly with its dark blue walls. The high poster rail bed consists of grass cloth insets in both the footboard and headboard. Its sitting area is made up of a round ottoman in animal print and with soft arms made from ivory. The cabinets in the master bathroom have a dark brown truffle wood finish. This is in contrast with the white Carrera marble counters. The floors of the bath are also made of Carrera marble. There is a large in-built tub at the corner.
The loft in the upstairs area has a huge recreational space. It is furnished with a high bar table, dark wooden bar stools, a built in bar, wine chiller, a white counter and a low television console set.
Other villas that are available for viewing other than the Camargo include the Biella and the Arenas. The Biella covers 3, 738 square foot, has four bedrooms and four and a half baths. Its base price is at $950,900. The Arenas on the other hand covers 3,032 square foot. It is a three-bedroom villa with three and a half baths. Its base price is $880,000. The other unfurnished villas about to be completed include the Algeria, the Biella and the Camargo. All these go for $1,004,154, $1,111,342 and $1,216,011 respectively.
Grey Oaks Country Club is debt free and member-owned. Residents and nonresidents memberships are available to anyone interested. It is located off Airport Pulling Road, north of Golden Gate Parkway in Naples. <br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks" title="Grey Oaks Real Estate" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/new-neapolitan-luxury-model-under-construction-in-grey-oaks" title="New Neapolitan Luxury Model Under Construction in Grey Oaks" target="_blank"> New Neapolitan Luxury Model Under Construction in Grey Oaks </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks-condos" title="Grey Oaks Condos" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Condos </a> 2014-07-16T21:00:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:19-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33736Home Supply Low, Demand High In Collier County
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/33/Supply-Demand.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="158" />According to Naples Area Board of Realtors (NABOR), housing supply is at its lowest since 2007 this May. The demand on the other hand, is relatively high with close sales and pending sales reaching over 1,000 in May. However, compared to the same month last year, the speed of sale is a bit slower. NABOR’s monthly report includes all of Collier County, except <a title="Marco Island real estate" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/marco-island/">Marco Island</a>.
Despite the discrepancies in demand and supply, real estate brokers do not perceive this as a sign of a real estate bubble building up. Real estate people do not want bubble happening since too much demand with little supply push prices to very high values causing home prices to be unsustainable for average buyers.
The bubble already occurred during the housing boom in mid-2000. Mike Hughes, President of NABOR also supported the brokers saying that the bubble theory is not happening. Hughes emphasized that the difference during the housing boom and bubble in mid-2000 and today is that lending standards today are more stringent. Inventory of new home developments is also easier.
Compared to last year’s home prices, the median home price in May has increased by 12%. Most of the price increase affected the $500,000 and down price range. Higher price ranges did not increase, which is a bit strange since most of the price increase affect the higher price ranges for the past years.
Median price for single-family homes increased by 19% while median price for condo residences increased by 10%. The inventory however declined by 8%, which mainly includes condominiums. According to NABOR, the decline in inventory particularly in the condo market is affected by the rising prices of single family homes pushing buyers to prefer condos. The decrease in new condo developments is another reason plus most international homebuyers nowadays, prefer condo residences because it is easy to maintain for them while they are overseas.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/analysts-say-flippers-and-lending-charges-edging-market-to-another-" title="Analysts Say Flippers And Lending Charges Edging Market To Another Bubble" target="_blank"> Analysts Say Flippers And Lending Charges Edging Market To Another Bubble </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/naples-home-prices-likely-to-soar" title="Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar" target="_blank"> Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/sales-slow-in-naples-while-home-prices-rise" title="Sales Slow in Naples While Home Prices Rise" target="_blank"> Sales Slow in Naples While Home Prices Rise </a> 2014-07-15T20:49:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:22-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33737Biella Villa Homes Of Torino Neighborhood Now Open
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/34/torino-at-grey-oaks.jpg" alt="Torino At Grey Oaks" width="452" height="197" />Biella Villa homes, one of the recent developments in <a title="Grey Oaks" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks/">Grey Oaks Country Club</a> community is now open for viewing. Belonging to the Torino neighborhood, the Biella villas were designed by JoAnna Palinchak by Design West. The interior design features classic but upscale and modern styles with sleek furnishings.
Biella is one of the villa models in the Torino neighborhood being designed by Design West. Torino neighborhood features luxury villas with 1 to 2 floors. Halsatt Partnership and CC Devco are completing the neighborhood development with 26 home sites still available for building.
Living areas of the Biella model homes start at 3,738 square feet. The luxurious villa homes have 2 master suites, 4 and a half bathroom, a den, large family room, 2 guest rooms, an oversized kitchen, living area, and dining rooms. There is an outdoor living area as well with covered terrace, an outdoor kitchen, and a fireplace. The villa homes also feature a beautiful private pool and a 2-car garage parking space with a storage space dedicated for golf carts.
The dining area, living room, and the foyer all have beautiful views of the private pool as well as the well-landscaped outdoor areas. Rooms are installed with sliders for easy access to the outdoor space.
All areas in the home are well furnished with the primary areas featuring colors of light blues and grays with sleek furnishings providing a classy and monochromatic environment. The secondary areas usually feature a more casual design, creating a homier atmosphere. The flooring is travertine in gray tone with varying size and lay of the tiles to make the flooring more unique.
Homebuyers can also choose from two sizes of 2-story villa models in Torino neighborhood. One is the Arenas model with a living space of 3,032 square feet and the Camargo model having a larger area of about 4,311 square feet. The Arenas floor plans feature 3 bedrooms and 3 ½ bathrooms with a pavilion and a courtyard, a gourmet kitchen, dining room, and a den. The floor plan also includes a 2-car garage space with extra storage for golf carts. Outdoor fixtures also include an optional outdoor kitchen and a swimming pool.
The larger Camargo floor plans feature 4 bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, oversized kitchen, family room, breakfast nook, and a den. It also includes a 2-car garage with storage area for golf carts. Camargo homes also have a private pool, and an outdoor living area.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks" title="Grey Oaks Real Estate" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks-subdivisions" title="Grey Oaks Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Subdivisions </a> 2014-07-14T21:02:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:23-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33738Doral Villa Home Available In Grey Oaks In Naples
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/36/doral-at-grey-oaks.jpg" alt="" width="460" height="247" /><a title="Grey Oaks" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks/">Grey Oaks Country Club</a> is one of the most prestigious communities in Naples. For those who are interested to be part of this wonderful community, Grey Oaks Realty recently announced the opening of Doral model villa homes in the neighborhood of Traditions. The residence is fully furnished and ready for occupancy.
Traditions is one of the upscale community enclaves of Grey Oaks Country Club. This neighborhood is composed of 62 well-designed villa homes and 60 beautiful coach homes. The development is handled by CC Devco, a real estate investment firm based in Coral Gables, and Halstatt Partnership which is a reputable developer based in Naples.
Villa Homes In Traditions Neighborhood
The luxury villa homes in the neighborhood of Traditions offers spacious living areas starting at 2,642 square feet up to 4,476 square feet. Base-price ranges from $743,000 up to $910,000. Prospective homebuyers can choose from 4 different home models such as the Doral, Alegria, Bregante, and Carillo models which are all available in 3 elevations.
Among the 4 villa homes, Doral villa model offers the option to convert the large den into a 4th bedroom.
All villa homes in the Tradition as neighborhood feature well-designed landscaping and elegant front entry doors made from solid mahogany wood.
Doral Villa Homes
The Doral villa homes offer living area of approximately 3,101 square feet under air. The large area features 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, a spacious den, a great room, elegant dining area, island kitchen, a separate breakfast area, and a 2-car garage space which also includes a golf cart storage space.The luxury villa home also comes with landscaped outdoor area with an outdoor kitchen, private pool, and spa area.
A fully furnished Doral villa home is priced around $1,117,411. Interior design was made by Linda Ewing of CC Devco while the furnishings were chosen by JoAnnaPalinchak of Interiors at Design West.
The main finish for Doral villa homes basically feature light color palette like alabaster while furnishings and decorations feature beautiful colors of champagne, oatmeal, gray, and a little hint of blue. The villa homes’ living area has a wide-plank flooring of shale-toned wood, which provide a rustic, European look.
Adding to the cosy and rich ambience to the interior are the unique window treatments and well-chosen furnishings.
Doral villa homes also provide an open gathering area, which a lot of homebuyers are looking for nowadays when it comes to the great room area. The open gathering area is perfect for relaxation and a simple gathering with friends with its cushion sofas, love seat, and guest chairs, which are matching in colors and designs, and compliment the neutral background and color palette of the room.
The fully furnished Doral villa home also features modern entertainment areas so families especially the kids can enjoy staying at home.
Connected to the great room is the spacious and luxurious kitchen area with counter height island and bar stools. The perimeter cabinetry, outer island base, and food preparation island base are all designed with maple color palette combined with alabaster finish and pewter glaze. Complementing the neutral background of the kitchen is the granite counter top plus the backsplash tile.
Adjacent to the kitchen area is the breakfast area, which includes a pantry and some additional storage spaces for foods and kitchen items. The breakfast area overlooks the beautiful outdoor living area through its sliding glass doors that slide into pockets.
Aside from the swimming pool and spa, Doral villa residences also feature a summer kitchen with stainless gas grill and an additional refrigerator. There is a relaxing conversation area with a cocktail table surrounded by 4 chairs. By the pool are 2 chaise lounges perfect for relaxation while enjoying the serene view of the landscaped pool area.
The master bedroom is separated through a double-door entry and a vestibule. The master suite features a beautiful king-sized bed complete with a headboard, footboard, coverlet, and luxury pillows. There are also 2 nightstands, 2 chairs that are situated near the bay window providing the homeowners a comfortable place to read and view the picturesque scene outdoor.
There are separate bathrooms for him and her, which all include upscale vanity cabinetries and elegant countertops.
Alegria Villa Homes
The Alegria villa residences will also be available for viewing and purchase, and is also within the upscale neighborhood of <a title="Traditions Real Estate in Grey Oaks" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/traditions/">Traditions</a>. Alegria villa homes have living spaces of approximately 2,642 square feet. Floor configuration for this model includes 2 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms, a den, family room, full kitchen and Kitchen Island, dining rooms, and a 2-car garage plus a golf cart garage.
The outdoor living area includes a well-landscaped pool area and spa, and a summer kitchen.
The interior finish of the Alegriavilla home provides a relaxing atmosphere with color palettes of pewter grays, ivories, and papyrus beige. The kitchen cabinetry features a cinnamon cherry color combined with cream-colored marble tops plus backsplash tiles using glass.
The Alegria villa homes are also fully furnished and will be priced at around $1,195,000.
Home Options At Traditions
Currently, there are 8 villa homes available for purchase in the Traditions neighborhood. The remaining villa residences include 2 furnished models, 1 completed but unfurnished villa model, another move-in ready but unfurnished villa home which will be completed within 30 days, and 3 move-in ready villa homes that are still under construction.
The 8th option is a villa home site still available for building.
There are also 15 coach homes still available for purchase which include a fully furnished coach home, 2 completed but unfurnished move-in ready coach home, and 4 move-in ready coach homes still being completed and is predicted to be finished in August.
The remaining 8 coach homes are still being constructed. All move-in ready coach homes in Traditions neighborhood are available for upgrades and optional features.
Aside from the Doral and Alegria villa homes, there are also 2 Bregante villa models available for purchase. Bregante villa homes feature a living space of 3,319 square feet under air. The spacious villa home features 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, a den, family room, dining area, complete kitchen, and a 2-car garage with an additional space for golf cart storage. The outdoor landscaped area includes a pool and a kitchen. <br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/naples-home-prices-likely-to-soar" title="Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar" target="_blank"> Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/construction-of-new-stock-models-begins-in-esperanza-at-paseo" title="Construction of New Stock Models Begins in Esperanza at Paseo" target="_blank"> Construction of New Stock Models Begins in Esperanza at Paseo </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/dr-horton-finishing-model-homes-in-fiddlers-creek" title="D.R. Horton Finishing Model Homes in Fiddler's Creek" target="_blank"> D.R. Horton Finishing Model Homes in Fiddler's Creek </a> 2014-07-13T21:03:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:26-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33739Ronto Constructs High-Rise In Bonita Bay For Instant Occupants
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/35/BonitaBay.jpg" alt="" width="314" height="213" />The Ronto Group is erecting a luxury high-rise tower right inside the <a title="Bonita Bay real estate" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bonita-bay/">Bonita Bay</a> community. Located in the ambience of <a title="Bonita Springs Real Estate" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bonita-springs-real-estate/">Bonita Springs</a>, the building will have 26 floors and 120 units. The residences are all going to be fully completed and ready for immediate occupants. These are no ordinary homes as they have been tastefully furnished by some of the very best designers and interior decorators. The high-quality work can be gleaned from the paint coat to the floors and even the panels. Based in Naples, Ronto Group and the Wheelock Street Capital purchased the last two high-rise plots in Bonita towards the end of 2013.
According to Anthony Solomon, who is the executive vice president of the Ronto Group, the idea of ‘building decorator-ready’ homes is an outdated idea. In the new luxury tower they are constructing at Bonita Bay, the new residents will be able to packing and start living right away. That way, there will be no need to of wasting months finishing the interior decoration. Ronto does all that for them prior to when they move in.
There are many features in the new building that many will find really attractive. One is the rarely found ability of a very livable environment in high-rise buildings. Access to the floors is by private elevators and that is not all. There are massive central kitchens, great rooms and each residence has two or three outdoor terraces, one of which contains an outdoor kitchen.
In addition, the widespread use of glass throughout the residence ensures that you get spectacular views of the Estero Bay and the majestic Gulf of Mexico. There are also the legendary golf courses of the Bonita Bay and its radiant mangrove preserves. Every one of these residences comes with a pair of secured access underground parking spaces. There are also private, covered garages that can accommodate two automobiles. The dazzling architecture done by the renowned Santiesteban & Associates is reflected in various parts of the building, from the kitchen to the master baths.
Residences in the tower will range from an estimated 2,900 to 3,400 square feet under air. As for the great rooms, the floor plans include vast island kitchens, three bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths or three bedrooms with a den or a fourth bedroom. Embedding the private elevators ensures the building is divided into three smaller buildings, each of which is an independent unit.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bonita-bay" title="Bonita Bay Real Estate" target="_blank"> Bonita Bay Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bonita-bay-condos" title="Bonita Bay Condos" target="_blank"> Bonita Bay Condos </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bonita-bay-homes" title="Bonita Bay Homes" target="_blank"> Bonita Bay Homes </a> 2014-07-11T03:58:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:28-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33740Analysts Say Flippers And Lending Charges Edging Market To Another Bubble
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/32/housing_bubble.jpg" alt="Housing Bubble" width="301" height="300" />Although a clear observation shows that the prices in the <a title="Southwest Florida real estate" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/">Southwest Florida real estate</a> market are not experiencing inflation like during the last housing boom, there are experts who feel a time bomb is going to explode. For these analysts, there are already strong signs that a bubble is already inflating.
They are not just guessing, they are pointing to factors they believe is driving this phenomenon. They state that flippers and less strict lending practices are to be blamed. They also pointed out that a widespread shortage of inventory and a disturbing rise in the lack of affordability are other culprits too. For these experts, if nothing is done quickly, we may be witnessing another devastating economic bubble.
For Daren Blomquist, the vice-president of <a title="RealtyTrac" href="http://www.realtytrac.com">RealtyTrac</a>, a research firm based in Irvine, California, this mix is just perfect for a bubble. He observes that in April, the overall average prices were less than the peak prices during the housing boom but have considerably heightened from their dips during the recession of 2010. For example, the prices of single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses in Collier County have spiked by up to 60% from their low to reach an incredible $240,000. For houses in Lee, the prices rose by as much as 90%, to $142,500.
But for the homes in Collier County, the prices are still 38% under their peak and as for Lee, about 44% below the peak values. For Blomquist, these are early warning signs. He stated that these properties are not necessarily selling for what the buyers can afford.
Corporations and multi-based investors like hedge funds and banks are now commencing multi-property transactions. These can include vacant lots, <a title="Naples Condos" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/naples-condos/">condominiums</a>, and <a title="Naples Homes" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/naples-homes/">single-family homes</a>. These can be purchased either from the banks or from each other. In Collier, almost 50% of all the institutional investor transactions are classified under this group, while in Lee, it is 55%. At a conference in Houston last week of the National Association of Real Estate Editors, Blomquist was one of the experts who sounded a note of warning concerning an impending bubble.
For Naples-based real estate analyst, Tim O’Neill, he is also aware of the fact that investors are involved in flipper transactions, to shore up the values of their portfolios. He said the major problem with this practice is that they are artificially inflating the prices. He also warned that a similar scenario played out itself in the last boom. He said that many are engaging in this because of greed and that the warning signs are being ignored, just as it happened the last time.
A vast majority of these activities has been observed in places like the Golden Gate Estates and Golden Gate, and not even in the more expensive areas west of Interstate 75, he said. Another factor blamed also is that lenders do not seem to have a harmonized guideline any more, just as it was observed in 2005 and 2006. As for some other analysts, they do believe that small bubbles have become more noticeable.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/decrease-in-active-listings-in-march-led-to-decrease-in-sales" title="Decrease In Active Listings In March Led To Decrease In Sales" target="_blank"> Decrease In Active Listings In March Led To Decrease In Sales </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/lee-collier-home-prices-rebound-but-have-yet-to-reach-peak" title="Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak" target="_blank"> Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak </a> 2014-07-09T22:24:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:30-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33741$50 Million Sales Recorded By Twin Eagles After A Marvelous May<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/31/twin-eagles.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="227" />Set in a very peaceful environment full of the most luxurious options open to residents, it is no surprise that <a title="Twin Eagles real estate" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles/">Twin Eagles</a> is fast becoming the choice of many. Part of the dazzling array of amenities that are available on the 1,115-acre gated community include two championship golf courses. The development of Twin Eagles is undertaken by Ronto Group in North Naples.
Twin Eagles has disclosed that six closed new construction deals that are worth almost $2.2 million and nine pending new construction transactions valued at over $7.5 million were processed during a very boisterous May. This spike during May was so energetic that the year-to-date sales of Twin Eagles actually reached a total of 68 closed and an incredible pending new constructions all valued at almost $50 million. The year-to-date activity for the year 2014 is more than 200% an increase of the 31 transactions valued at $22 million disclosed by TwinEagles during the first five months of 2013.
Very interesting observations have been made following these fantastic sales. For instance, the May sales record shows that there is an immense acceptance of the diverse new home product choices that are offered to the residents. These range from the carriage homes (starting from the mid-$200s) to buildings that will set you back at least a couple of millions of dollars (of course, with a golf membership).
In May, a total of five new construction contracts were processed for the estate residences located in the Hedgestone neighborhood, also owned by Twin Eagles. These residences feature custom-designed by <a title="Divco Construction Corp" href="http://www.divcohomes.com/" target="_blank">Divco Construction Corporation</a>, A.R.B.C. Arthur Rutenberg Homes and Stock Signature Homes, ranging from 2,800 to 5,000 square feet on homesites measuring 90-feet wide and with a depth of up to 160 feet. Customized homes and lot packages are sold for $1.5 million upwards. For those who may want to view, there are four furnished model residences available in Hedgestone.
In Hedgestone, the Divco’s La Salle model offers 3,512 square feet under air. The majestic room floor plan includes a corporate dining room, an island kitchen (plus dinette), a study, four bedrooms, four full baths and two half-baths. Other facilities and amenities include an outdoor living area (plus summer kitchen), pool and spa, fireplace and a garage that can accommodate three cars. As for Divco’s La Salle floor plan, the base price is from $878,100 while the model is on sale for $1,495,000 with the furnishings, upgrades and options.
As for the ARBC Arthur Rutenberg Homes’ Bermuda, the great room floor plan covers an area of 3,438 square feet under air. The great room measures 22 by 21 feet and it opens to the outdoors in such a way that the residents can enjoy some really spectacular scenery of Hedgestone. The plan also incorporates a den that has a circular ceiling detail, three baths, three bedrooms, a gigantic island kitchen, dining area and an outdoor living area that comes with a cabana and summer kitchen. There is also a bonus room, a garage that can take three cars and a spa, fire pit and sun shelf.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles" title="Twin Eagles Real Estate" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles-subdivisions" title="Twin Eagles Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles Subdivisions </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/twin-eagles-community-info" title="Twin Eagles Community Info" target="_blank"> Twin Eagles Community Info </a> 2014-06-17T23:46:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:31-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33742Top 5 Things To Do This Weekend in Naples, FL
<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/30/fun-in-naples.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="259" />Finally, it is the weekend. It is time to let down your hair and have fun. Discover new things to do and have a great time this weekend with your friends and loved ones.
5. Spoil Your Buddies And Yourself at Sur La Table
You really want to have an unforgettable weekend, right? It is time to hit Sur La Table. Invite a few of your best pals and head for this most enchanting destination in the Mercato, 9105 Strada Place, Naples and order for some of the most exotic cuisines. Opening 6:30, the fun lasts until 8:30pm. Check out the really small meals and learn the magic you can do with an array of ingredients. You can even check out the salsa, glaze, and pesto! You need to be 18 and older to enjoy this specialty. Have an enjoyable meal starting at $69 for entry.
4. Laugh It Off At Stage to Improv
Bored or depressed? Then leave all and hit the Stage 2 Improv at Tobye Studio Productions, Naples Players, 701 Fifth Avenue, S. Naples. On the 21st of June, this venue is going to be the place to be. With its outstanding games and theater group, this is the very definition of fascinating! Every single show is different from the other and that is because all the games are created on the spot. Ready to crack your ribs? Come with just $20.
3. Get Yourself Immersed In The Romantic Story of ‘Romeo and Juliet’
Introduce your kids to the timeless story of Romeo and Juliet. The FGCU Bower School of Music theater program through Sunday will be re-enacting this play in a most memorable manner. The adaptation of this kid’s play was done by Toby Hulse while Tyler Layton was the director. It starts with a young girl named Emily who stumbles upon a book about Romeo and Juliet, and as she reads, the characters emanate from the book and the enactment of the story starts. For Emily, who thinks that the story will have the sweet ending of many of her Disney animations, the end has another tale entirely.
The address is the university, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., and for the attendees, they have to be at least 7 while the tickets are offered for $7. By 2pm on Sunday, the play commences while it starts at 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday.
2. Enjoy The Roaring ‘20s With An Outstanding Saturday Jazz Concert
Relive the Louis Armstrong experience some of the most awesome jazz band concerts. Hook up at the Norris Center, 755 Eighth Avenue, S., Cambier Park. The show lasts from 1-3 pm on Saturdays and donations from the general public are really appreciated. For 16 years now, the Naples Dixieland Jazz Band has been the toast of the community and in fact, they have a total of five traditional jazz CDs to their credits.
1. Where Is Your Dad? Spoil Him Silly This Father’s Day At The Naples Zoo
The Naples Zoo is all yours to claim this Father’s Day, and many have agreed that there is no better way to celebrate that day than spending it here. The tickets still come in at their regular $12.95 children’s and one dad per ticket is given a free entry from 9.am to 5.pm on Sunday. Enjoy!
There you have it a list of enjoyable things to enjoy – from gastronomic delight to wonderful adventures under the sun.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/to-do" title="Things To Do In Naples" target="_blank"> Things To Do In Naples </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/beaches" title="Naples Beaches" target="_blank"> Naples Beaches </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/the-west-is-best-top-3-southwest-florida-parks" title="The West is Best: Top 3 Southwest Florida Parks" target="_blank"> The West is Best: Top 3 Southwest Florida Parks </a> 2014-06-16T04:09:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:33-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33743Summer Programs At Delnor Wiggins ParkDo you have a plot this summer? If so, you will need to revise your schedule; and if not, Delnor Wiggins Park is more than willing to offer you a rare experience of nature and its surroundings. Boasting one of the pristine and blond stretches of beach known to mankind, Delnor is a paradise that offers its clients vast and peaceful scenery of the popular Gulf of Mexico, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of countless shorebirds not forgetting the diverse wildlife that gather around the park each year.
The Ranger Programs at Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park in collaboration with Florida Gulf Coast University – FGCU Environmental Studies is now offering summer programs every Tuesday beginning June 10th at 9:30 am thanks to Christopher Tesmer, a gifted FGCU student. He (Chris) will explain and demonstrate research on Gopher Tortoise population using radio telemetry based on the transmitters mounted on the tortoises. There will also be an additional class every Friday at 8.30 am; and the best part is that all ages are welcome for these events at the pavilion in area 5.
Charges are only for Park Entry fees, which include;
- One vehicle with one person – $4.00<br />- One vehicle with more than one person - $6.00<br />- Walkers and bicyclers – $2.00
For the beach combining programs, this will recommence in July, every Tuesday as at 9:30 am. Delnor Wiggins Park offers more than just learning aid to participants; it is also a fun place to make new friends, discover new birds, animals, among other many factors. Visitors have made this park a popular destination where they sunbathe, hike, snorkel the reef, bird-watch, fish, search for epic sea shells, picnic, or simply sit back and relax in the cool and serene environment all credit going to mother nature.
Make an effort of joining us today to explore this gem of Florida with some of the state’s finest students.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/doc-fords-rum-bar-grille-in-naples" title="Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille In Naples?" target="_blank"> Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille In Naples? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/hidden-southwest-florida-beaches" title="Hidden Southwest Florida Beaches" target="_blank"> Hidden Southwest Florida Beaches </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/collier-county-second-healthiest-in-florida" title="Collier County Second Healthiest in Florida" target="_blank"> Collier County Second Healthiest in Florida </a> 2014-06-09T02:18:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:36-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33744The Most Refined Finishes Of Stock's Astoria I Model<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/29/astoria-I.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="198" />The Astoria I estate model is produced by Stock signature. The construction is taking place at 665 Regata road within the neighborhood of <a title="Naples Moorings" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/moorings/">Naples Moorings</a>. Inside the model is a showcased interior by one of the designers from Beasley and Henley interior design; Troy Beasley, which gives it a refined and sophisticated finish. It harmoniously blends with the style used for its exterior architecture, mainly because it is clean lined. Thus, this work of RG Designs has the elegant feeling of island life.
Throughout the floor plan of Astoria I, which measures 4,100 square feet there is a sense of luxury in a casual way that will leave you captivated. It is made of a completed foyer and a reception room with a lounge that gives a see through view. There is also a fireplace with two sides, a dining room with a huge sense of formality, a wonderful room to the lanai side and an exterior living area. In addition, there is a gourmet island kitchen, a study, a wet bar, four bedrooms with full and two half baths for wines, a master en suite that is expansive and contains a private terrace, a courtyard for entry, motor court and two garages that can accommodate two cars. The price for this furnished Astoria I is $3,095,000. Stock Signature Homes is the division of home building that provides luxury estates in Stock Development, which as recently named by BUILDER Magazine, is the top builder 100 for two consecutive times.
There is some sense of elegance as one enters the Astoria I residence. It is provided by the courtyard that has a bright and spacious foyer. This reflects the clean palette with light cream and gray colors. They are placed throughout the home by Beasley. This is in addition to the wood that has been used extensively. There is also the pyramid shaped ceiling that blends well with the wall paneling in the form of tongue-and-groove as well as moldings that are simply applied. This shape is made to resemble tones of gray and cream on the stone floor.
There is a console that is skirted and perfectly complements the art display on one side of the foyer wall. A china cabinet elegantly stands at the opening connecting the foyer and the dining room. It acts as a storage and buffet area. At the same time, different accessories can be placed on the upper cabinet, which is made of glass for decoration. There is a suspended chandelier on the dining room ceiling. It sits over an eight-seat square table. One side of the wall holds a custom window that provides entry into the wine room within which there is controlled temperature.
As one moves past the foyer, there is an informal living room atmosphere and the separated reception room. Beasley uses an established pale gray driftwood on the floor in all the living areas of Astoria I. It has a wall-to-wall glass for its backdrop with soft sheer drapes for its cover. This area provides that unique view of the outdoor area around the pool that is made of four chair groupings and an area rug that maintains the light and airiness hence the ideal place to hold conversations. The reception and the great room share the fireplace with two ways.
There is immense brightness in the great room that opens to the wet bar in the dining room and the kitchen. There are enhanced and inviting elements at the fireplace that help create a focus for the beautiful space. Above the fireplace, there is a finished wall that is toned with mellow gray wood. It is darker than the floor and holds the television. Character and warmth are provided by a bookcase that is built in and extra display shelves. In the room, there is upholstered furniture with clean lines and comfortable, fresh colors, which maintain the sophisticated air. Facing the television is a group of sofas while the great room wall has a soft off white finishing. Beasley was able to make use of accent colors with his pieces of art and accessories in the floors with driftwood gray and light tones on the wall. This wall consists of interior and exterior sliding doors towards the areas of entertainment.
An island of counter height for five is available in the kitchen. They are finished in a deeper gray tone that matches the surrounding fireplace wall. In contrast, is the light appearance of the upper cabinets that have a cream finish. The countertops that are finished in materials made of Quartzite provide a perfect blend to give a rich off white granite with a touch of extravagant vein look. They also have some drama touch from the glass tiles elongated with a soft backsplash from the perimeter of the hood area. Adjacent are the cabinet features in the nearby breakfast room that provide storage places.
Astoria I offers a carefree yet sophisticated mood that is presented with the outdoor area. It is made up of the pool with combined landscape. The rear part that provides secluded enjoyment is connected to the whole residence. The ceiling of the outdoor living area is made of wood work with tongue-and-groove. It acts as continuity for the clean palette with modern color, lanai and the floor of the deck as made by Beasley. This is through the use of stone pavers of pearl travertine and the tones of warm blue gray that are found at the glass waterline tile of the pool. There is a seating group at the fireplace with two sides to create a continuous inviting environment of the space. Adjacent to the summer kitchen is a spacious dining space for enjoyment of casual meals.
The foyer at Astoria I is linked to the gallery hallway, study and master suite. There is an entry made of a double door leading to the study, which is also a retreat of the clubroom and a work space. It is finished with carpet that is muted gray and not the traditional wood. It also serves as an escape place for television viewing. It has a built in cabinet joined to an integrated desk and bookcases that complete the office space. The bookcases have a combination of cream and gray as some other areas of the home with an art lighting illumination. The landscaped pool area can be accessed via French doors.
A vestibule is used to enter the master bedroom, which has a private patio and the entire pool area at its end. There is an extension of the details of paneling and molding at the foyer. They give the upholstered headboard a perfect backdrop. The tones of color used in this room are improved with warm blue-gray, silver and gray touches. There is a variation of dark brown and dark pewter and additional gold pops in the bronze tones. A refined look is provided by the night stands and end tables that offer storage shelves on the lower side. Wood tones are applied on the elongated dresser to enhance the finishing of gray and cream with warmth.
The master bathroom has a continuation of this color combination with its cabinets made elegantly of pale gray and an additional marble made from Calcutta gold. It is also used on the floors though with a mix of honey onyx. It contains a freestanding tub that appears to float on the floor with a shower finished in different selections of marble. Multipurpose closets are generously present to make the space practical as it maintains a high level of sophistication, luxury and enticement.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/moorings" title="Moorings Real Estate" target="_blank"> Moorings Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/moorings-homes" title="Moorings Homes" target="_blank"> Moorings Homes </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/moorings-condos" title="Moorings Condos" target="_blank"> Moorings Condos </a> 2014-06-05T21:13:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:38-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33745Naples Home Prices Likely to Soar
According to a research group, prices of area homes are about to jump by over 10% in the next year. Area topping the prices of single family homes in Florida is Naples-Macro Island, and what more, there is still a scope of further increment in prices in the area.
If we go by The Cary, N.C based firm's forecast, then the prices in Cape Coral-Fort Myers are also likely to fly off the handle. Ingo Winzer, the president of the firm is optimistic about Southwest Florida as well, mainly due to an upbeat in jobs, particularly in retail and tourism sector. These markets are attracting a lot of investors. On Wednesday, he was quoted saying, "Combine speculative interest with good fundamental economic demand and you have a lot of people who want to buy property".
Winzer is sure about Southwest Florida not going towards the dreaded "bubble", despite of various predictions. He said, "Prices are 20 percent lower than they ought to be", looking at the healthy economy and mounting demand.
Local Market Monitor, in its second quarter's residential real estate report stated that the median of prices of single-family homes in the Naples area has reached the figure of $276,086, which is the maximum of the 20 cities followed by them in Florida. This is 8% higher than the second quarter of previous year.
Ninth on their list came Cape Coral-Fort Myers, with prices touching a median of $184,976 for the 2nd quarter which is a 12% jump from the year before.
Both of these markets are expected to have a double-digit growth in the coming year as per the Local Market Monitor's calculations. Prices in the Naples-Marco Island are likely to rise by an additional 11 percent, while the prices in Cape Coral-Fort Myers will soar by another 12 percent by the second quarter of 2015. If we look three years ahead of now, then by the second quarter of 2017, it is possible to see the cumulative price increase for these three years to be rocketed to 29% in Naples-Marco Island and 31% in Cape Coral-Fort Myers.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/lee-collier-home-prices-rebound-but-have-yet-to-reach-peak" title="Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak." target="_blank"> Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak. </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/sales-slow-in-naples-while-home-prices-rise" title="Sales Slow in Naples While Home Prices Rise" target="_blank"> Sales Slow in Naples While Home Prices Rise </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> 2014-06-05T04:43:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:40-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33746Lee, Collier Home Prices Rebound But Have Yet to Reach Peak.<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/28/housing-2014.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="263" />Southwest Florida has witnessed a steady increase in home prices in the post-recession period. However, despite all this progress a report released in April shows that the prices are far away from the peak prices witnessed when the housing industry was experiencing a boom.
RealtyTrac, a research firm based in Irvine Calif says that the home prices in the area (Southwest Florida) were below their peaks by a higher margin than anywhere else in the whole nation. The good news is that they are recovering well like in other parts of Florida.
The Vice President of RealtyTrac, Daren Blomquist says that most areas in Florida have not recovered to the peak prices seen when the housing industry was booming. The median prices for homes in Collier were down by 38% from the peak prices of $390000 seen in 2006 (May). In Lee, the home prices were 44% below the high median peak prices of January 2007 ($256000).
In July 2006, the statewide median home prices were at a high of about $230000 but in April, they were 42% below. By contrast, the nationwide prices are about 28% below the peak prices of $237537 that were seen in 2006 (August).
As for the Southwest Florida residents, Blomquist said the figures are the in the same predicament. Many homeowners are going through a negative equity since they bought homes when the home prices where high. However, the current situation is a relief for buyers as the prices are relatively low.
RealtyTrac has found that about fifty-two counties nationwide have seen prices rise past the peak levels. Michigan and Kalamazoo County have had the highest rise. The prices are up by 25.5% from the median peak prices of $108000. This has been partly attributed to the increase in population by about 2.6% to 256725 between 2010 and 2013. Blomquist said that the Midwest counties have seen their home prices surpass the peak levels. Also noted, was how rich buyers in big cities such Washington and New York have managed to keep the prices high.
RealtyTrac also reported that Southwest Florida has also experienced a considerable rise in home prices. The median prices in Collier hit a low of about $150000 in 2010 (October). Thereafter, there has been a 60% rise. The median prices in Lee have risen by 90% from a low of $74900 seen in November of 2010.
Mahoning County has experienced an impressive recovery where the prices zoomed by 273% from a median low of about $25500 that was seen in the month of March in 2009.
Despite the rise in home prices, homeownership levels have not been hurt. Mahoning has a 70.7% ownership rate compared to Ohio’s 68% and 65.5% nationwide. Despite a pent-up demand, Blomquist said that tighter lending has put a strong hold on the prices nationwide. This is keeping them from rising back to the boom levels. He noted that one has to go through some stringent processes in order get a good loan or one has to use cash. This has made buyers quite conservative.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/new-golfing-enclave-in-north-naples-takes-real-estate-market-by-sto" title="New Golfing Enclave In North Naples Takes Real Estate Market By Storm" target="_blank"> New Golfing Enclave In North Naples Takes Real Estate Market By Storm </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/2013-ends-strong-for-naples-housing-marke" title="2013 Ends Strong for Naples Housing Market" target="_blank"> 2013 Ends Strong for Naples Housing Market </a> 2014-05-30T02:08:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:42-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33747Sales Slow in Naples While Home Prices Rise<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/25/rising-home-prices.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="263" />Home prices are currently increasing at a double digit-rate in Naples, even though both the pending and closing sales have slowed. However, expensive houses along the beach are still being sold at an increasing rate. When compared to last year's April sales number, realtors concluded that the volume of the estates were decreasing due to rapid sales. This was released on Friday, which showed that an average sales rate increased by over 42 percent causing a home to be sold within 93 days, causing supplies to fall nearly 12 percent to a little over 4 thousand units.
Due to the scarcity of the supplied, it increased the median prices to 12 percent, pushing closing sales to $269,000. Mike Hughes, a real estate broker, commented that all the price points were performing really well and also added that, although the winter season was over, he still sees bidding cases on a few homes.
Cheaper homes also experienced an increase in price, being upped to $175,000. This was an increase in nearly 13 percent, covering a constant annual changed. Condos shared in this increase, jumping to 10.7 percent, which was an increase to $166,000. These statistics cover median prices of home under $300,000.
Even the lower-cost homes had also a dramatic increase to 17 percent, which was remarkable to agents as these homes are usually preferred to be permanent investments by families. But the reason for such an increase is as Brenda Floretti, another broker says that, investors have been purchasing these homes and flipping them for a profit.
On the other end, estates ranging at or above the 2 million mark have received a small declination on sales, dipping 3.9 percent. The median now stands at $2.6 million dollars, which is assumed to be the cause of less-luxurious condominiums. The price of these do no seem to match the quality. However there was a case when an estimated $34 million home was sold in the same month, which helped increase the median of the highest-end market by 2.2 percent. This single-family home sat comfortably in front of the beach, which was probably the cause of its likelihood sale. And many other luxury homes are being sold off at an alarming rate, considering that there are cheaper homes out there.
The 1 to $2 million homes have increased sales to 91, which is an increase of a whopping 38 percent. Such an increase was also seen on homes that were sold above $2 million, to 58 sales. Regarding pending sales, there were increases of 6.2 percent of 1 to $2 million homes and 2.5 percent of homes above $2 million. This was an increase of 86 to the former and 56 to the latter.
Real estate broker Phil Wood of the Naples area also commented on the pure amazement of these luxury homes, and attributes such increase by how the stock market has been performing. Stocks are at a high return it seems and when a stockholder with a $10 million portfolio gets an increase of 10 percent, it leaves him with at least $1 million to spend with. This has caused man of Phil Wood's client to invest much into real estates to diversify their portfolios, that even some are purchasing multiple properties.
Unfortunately homes and condos costing less than $500,000 were not doing so well with the lack of inventory. Sales had decreased in addition to the 8.7 drop of closed sales and 5.9 drop of pending sales, which Fioretti commented the consummation rate of inventories.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/decrease-in-active-listings-in-march-led-to-decrease-in-sales" title="Decrease In Active Listings In March Led To Decrease In Sales" target="_blank"> Decrease In Active Listings In March Led To Decrease In Sales </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/smartphones-increasing-sales-of-homes-in-naples" title="Smartphones Increasing Sales Of Homes In Naples" target="_blank"> Smartphones Increasing Sales Of Homes In Naples </a> 2014-05-27T01:36:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:44-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33748Fiddler's Creek - Coach Homes in Sonoma Ready for Occupancy<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/24/fiddlers-creek-sonoma.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="263" />You now have the opportunity to view Sonoma’s move-in ready coach homes as announced by <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek/">Fiddler’s Creek</a>. Sonoma is a master-planned community village made up of 44 residences built in classic Mediterranean style.
A project by Lennar Homes, Sonoma has 11 two story buildings. Each building is composed of four 3-bedroomed individual residential houses. Each of the houses comes with a living room and a patio overlooking the lake in most houses. There are two floor plans available for the living room. You can either choose the 1741 square feet plan or the 2,110 one. Both plans are air-conditioned.
The Florence, a fully furnished coach on the ground floor covers 1741 square feet for the living room and a total of 2,338 square feet. The coach comes fully fitted with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a living room, kitchen, breakfast area and a dining area.
Other features also include a patio and a garage that can fit 2 cars. The Florence also includes other unique features such as granite countertops in the bathrooms and kitchen, 42-inches raised wood cabinets in the kitchen, wood casing and baseboards done in ancient colonial style and crown molding in the living room and master bedroom. All the wet areas and places of entry are covered with 20-inch diagonal tiles. The starting price for the Florence if $281,990.
The Verona covers a total of 2,858 square feet with the living room covering 2,110 square feet. Situated upstairs, this luxury coach is professionally furnished by Robb & Stucky International. It is composed of 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a dining area, kitchen and a breakfast area.
Verona’s master bedroom is located towards the end of the house. It has a large walk-in closet and its own bathroom. It also has a two-car garage and a patio covered with a screen. The coach also comes with a number of upgraded quality features and finishing. Its starting price is based at $301,990.
Every home in Sonoma village is built with concrete reinforced with steel. They also all have an in-built pest control system. Tiles made of concrete, brick paved driveways and automatic in-ground sprinklers are some of the exterior features. The interiors features include tiled floors, granite kitchen and bathroom counter tops, huge walk-in closets, GE appliances, energy saving features and hurricane doors and windows.
Suitably <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek-location/">located between Naples and Marco Island</a>, off Collier Boulevard, this gated community was awarded the 2013 CBIA Sand Dollar Award for Community of the Year. Some of the amenities found in Fiddler’s Creek include a 54,000 square feet Club and spa, a fitness center, a swimming complex, both classy and casual restaurants, tennis courts and a tot lot. Countless parties and events are hosted all year round in the Club & Spa.
Residents of Fiddler’s Creek are blessed with the chance of joining the Golf Club. This golf club features the Creek course, which is ranked among the top 100 Best Residential Golf Courses in the country. There is also the Tarpon Club where residents can get familiar with the beach and boating lifestyle.
You can view all of the listings for Fiddler's Creek here: <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek/">http://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek/</a><br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214030905-3153-aviamar-cir-102-naples-fl-34114/" title="3153 AVIAMAR CIR 102" target="_blank"> 3153 AVIAMAR CIR 102 </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek" title="Fiddler's Creek Real Estate" target="_blank"> Fiddler's Creek Real Estate </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek-subdivisions" title="Fiddler's Creek Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Fiddler's Creek Subdivisions </a> 2014-05-27T01:16:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:46-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33749New Neapolitan Luxury Model Under Construction in Grey Oaks<br /><a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214007227-1213-gordon-river-trl-naples-fl-34105/"><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/22/1213-gordon-river-trail.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="176" /></a>
It was recently reported that Stock Signature Homes is building a brand new Neapolitan deluxe home in Florida. The residence location is at <a title="1213 Gordon River Trail" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214007227-1213-gordon-river-trl-naples-fl-34105/">1213 Gordon River Trail</a> in <a title="Grey Oaks" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks/">Grey Oaks</a>. Stock Signature Homes, as part of a subsidiary of Stock Development, has provided more than a decade of experience in building luxury residences in the Southwestern Florida region. It has offered exceptional style and unique design choices for thousands of homeowners, earning its place in the top 100 US builders in a recent magazine polling. <br /><br />This particular two-floor estate home takes up more than 7700 feet of living space and is currently <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214007227-1213-gordon-river-trl-naples-fl-34105/">on the market</a> for just under seven million dollars. Stock development has used state-of-the-art design from Stofft Cooney Architects to embrace their vision of an artistic and elegant living residence. You would find that it is not just your usual 3 bedroom suite but a whole new living experience. The moment that you walk into the residence, you are stunned by the cutting edge design and workmanship. Special features include an exclusive club room and VIP suite, grand island kitchen design complete with island nook, wet bar for alcoholic beverages, garage for up to four vehicles, a pool and much more. The study extends into the open with a covered terrace design. All of this comes furnished with top of the brand furniture, carpeting and flooring, delicate lighting and cabinetry.<br /><br />A lot of homeowners base their decision on what they see on the inside and not just on the outside. The good news is that Stock Homes have really outdone themselves with exquisite design choices. Designer expert Jessica Lee helped planned and implemented the entire interior design with top quality construction material. She has introduced not just good taste but her design also reflects a modern touch to the architectural style. She has mixed knowledge of her artistic design and preserved the spectacular outdoor space. This has contributed to the transformation of her rustic vision into reality. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214007227-1213-gordon-river-trl-naples-fl-34105/"><img style="float: left; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/23/1213-gordon-river-trl.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="263" /></a>In fact, the architectural style is a fusion between the rural and modernist style, with a smart limestone lined exterior extending into the front part and first floor of the house. The foyer is an architectural feat in itself, showcased by the high ceiling and glass chandelier design. The dedication to detail and workmanship is certainly evident in this set piece. The 13 foot ceiling is the highlight of the entire living space for any incoming guests. The furniture is also from top quality brands and includes comfortable linen sofas, uniquely carved chairs, drink and cocktail tables. The grand fireplace fits in perfectly with a bronze metal design, surrounded by wood painted to match the inner walls. A beautiful slider door separates you from your outdoor living space.<br /><br />No expense is spared with construction materials and only top quality material is used. The beautiful wood and natural stones dotting around the place help transcend your living place from the ordinary. The interior is painted in a mixture of light colors with a shade of gray and pale, which coupled with a voluminous environment generates a relaxing environment. The color palette is deeper in the study reflecting an element of seriousness, whereas the creamy color in the master suite wraps the room with elegant simplicity and warmth. All of the rooms have their individual characteristics and are richly blended together as a whole. Perhaps the most elegant room is the VIP suite, with its gold tone announcing the importance of its special guest.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214007227-1213-gordon-river-trl-naples-fl-34105/">The residence</a> also boasts the best of kitchen appliances from suppliers such as Sub-Zero and Wolf. Storage areas are fitted with Shaker-style cabinet doors. The grand island kitchen itself has a more established appearance with wooden drawers and a marble countertop overflowing over the sides. The breakfast nook has a communal feel to it with its wooden trestle table and chairs. Similarly, the same level of attention is paid to the dining room, with its traditional dining table and leather wing-backed chairs. Adjoining to this is the wine room has its own spacious bronze coated wine racks and corking table. <br /><br />Next is the club room where traditionally men would meet and socialize. It is decorated with comfortable leather chairs and a central cocktail ottoman. It comes with a wet bar where beverages can be served, complete with velvet covered bar stools and drink ledges. There are also areas for wine storage and refrigerators for other alcoholic drinks. Its dark atmosphere offers an authentic feel to the place, and makes it feel like a commercial drinking establishment.<br /><br />The study belongs to a more classic era, cleanly decorated with executive armchair and a dark looking desk. It is also an area of privacy, with a door leading to a personal storage area. The master suite is similarly decorated with a walnut wood flooring and a creamy colored walls that has a dreamy quality to it. It has everything that you would ask for, including a grand poster bed, wooden chest and dresser, a bench at the end of the bed, sitting area with two chairs. It also comes together with a mirrored wall and wet bar with onyx countertop. The master bath completes the perfect living experience, with an excellently crafted travertine floor and shower walls, vanity cabinets and chandelier.<br /><br />Perhaps the wonderful thing about Stock Development is that they have also thrown in an idealized external living space to enable you to enjoy the outdoors. The deck is comprised of lightly colored shell stone and there is a beautiful dining area, stone walled fireplace in addition to another island kitchen. This comes with a granite countertop and also includes space for bar stools, grill and appropriate cabinetry. Of course, none of this would be complete without the spacious pool, spa and water fountains. A steppingstone pathway is a great addition for this magnificent landscape. Stock Development has a history of building one-of-a-kind residences using top quality materials and impressive artistry. This construction project is a perfect example of artistry wizardry and demonstrates the limitless potential of the place.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/listing/214007227-1213-gordon-river-trl-naples-fl-34105/" title="1213 Gordon River Trail" target="_blank"> 1213 Gordon River Trail </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks" title="Grey Oaks" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/grey-oaks-subdivisions" title="Grey Oaks Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Grey Oaks Subdivisions </a> 2014-05-26T00:33:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:47-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33750Quail West Sales Hit $58.2 Million
Quail West sales in April amounting to $8,399,750 has driven up North Naples’ year-to-date sales, closing it at $58.2 million including pending sales.
Stock Development, a company that is an established Preferred Builder in Treviso Bay and Fiddler’s Creek, made the announcement and particularly cited that the said sales is composed of five houses, house and lots, as well as custom new-build sales contracts. More specifically, contracts are being processed for the McGarvey Custom Homes’ Bardot estate model residence, Stock Signature Home residences, Stock Windsor floor plan, as well as Quail West’s Idylwood community.
This is an affirmative sign of Stock and Quail West’s efforts on real estate sales since it follows through its strong 112 home sales in 2013 that totaled $121,167,456. All in all, its sales last year amounted to $342 million in Quail West, Olde Cypress in Naples, and Paseo in Fort Myers, as well as in Lely Resort and Black Bear Ridge, all of Southwest Florida.
At the moment interested buyers and lookers can check out its eighteen model fully-furnished residences, as well as its two unfurnished move-in-ready homes. They can also await the 80 move-in-ready homes that are under construction which include an additional 17 furnished models and 6 move-in ready homes. In the next two months, another 27 homes will commence construction. Additionally, its luxury estate homebuilding division, Stock Signature Homes, has already sold five model residences that it has in Park Shore, Estuary at Grey Oaks, and the Moorings in Naples. Right now, construction of new models in some of these communities is underway.
The luxury homes of Quail West are spread all over five amazing neighborhoods that offer three, four, and five bedrooms.
Escala, its luxury villa community, is a good choice for homes that have an area of 2,822 to 3,239 square feet. However, its Joliette floor plan has a floor area of 4,698 square feet, sold at a base price of $754,990.
Bigger homes can be found in Oakdale with areas of about 3,386 square feet that come with four baths and bedrooms, as well as a study, gourmet kitchen, formal living room, dining room, family room, and a garage.
Buyers can also check the homes and residences of La Caille neighborhood in the McGarvey Custom Homes where only 20 percent of the houses remain in the market as 80 percent have already been sold.
This boom in the sales performance of Quail West for Stock Development has been recognized nationally by the Builder Magazine, naming the company as one of the top 100 builders in the United States of America. <br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/exciting-new-custom-home-at-miromar-lakes" title="Exciting New Custom Home at Miromar Lakes" target="_blank"> Exciting New Custom Home at Miromar Lakes </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/stock-continues-success-at-quail-wes" title="Stock Continues Success at Quail West" target="_blank"> Stock Continues Success at Quail West </a> 2014-05-15T21:59:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:49-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33751About 50% Of All Home Sales Are All-Cash?<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/19/cash-only-home-sales.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" />If you are thinking of buying your own home anytime soon, then you had better get a pile of cash ready. It should be a huge pile. In the first quarter of 2014, all-cash deals of home sales skyrocketed to an all-high of 43%, according to information provided by RealtyTrac. You will really appreciate this growth when you realize that it was 19% all-cash sales back in 2013, and that was the highest since RealtyTrac started its recording of deals in the beginning of 2011.
Analysts have attributed this to two primary factors. One is the stricter lending standards that have been put in place. These lending barriers make it difficult to secure a mortgage and fierce competition among buyers. Another factor that favors the buyer carrying a bag of cash is the shortage of inventory, according to Chris Pollinger of the Southern California-based First Team Real Estate. And this seems to be the trend because in the words of Daren Blomquist, the vice president at RealtyTrac, even buyers who would normally opt for finance packages are now handing down cash, a strategy that makes them more attractive to the sellers.
He added that for buyers who have the cash ready, they just pay to avoid an unnecessary queue. It seems to be first cash, first served. It has to also be noted that there are better chances of closing cash deals quickly compared with other alternative methods of payment. For buyers who stick to financing, they are more likely to run into very unfriendly mortgage standards. <br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/why-would-a-bank-deny-a-home-loan" title="Why would a bank deny a home loan?" target="_blank"> Why would a bank deny a home loan? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/home-sale-prices-still-increasing-based-on-nabor-statistics" title="Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics" target="_blank"> Home Sale Prices Still Increasing Based On NABOR Statistics </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/smartphones-increasing-sales-of-homes-in-naples" title="Smartphones Increasing Sales Of Homes In Naples" target="_blank"> Smartphones Increasing Sales Of Homes In Naples </a> 2014-05-08T22:24:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:52-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33752Decrease In Active Listings In March Led To Decrease In Sales<img style="float: right;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/18/housing-market.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="232" />
According to the Bonita Springs-Estero Association of Realtors (BEAR), there was a decline in closed sales for single-family homes during the month of March 2014. It was actually 37.8 percent lower compared to last year. It was also stated that the probable cause for the decline is the decrease in active listings. It is not only single-family homes that are affected, even closed sales for condominiums and townhouses are also declining.
2014 BEAR President Anita Colletti even stated that the end of the winter season should not be a deterrent for homeowners to sell their homes. The 50 days in the market is the norm and homebuyers are expected to stay during the spring and summer season.
Aside from all this decrease in closed sales, there is still a positive increase in the average sale price for single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. This year is actually quite higher compared to the average selling price of such real estate properties last year of the same month.
Single-family homes, for the month of March, are selling at an average sales price of $469,834. There is an 8.2 percent increase compared to March 2013. On the other hand, condominiums also see a positive increase of 5.7 percent increase over March 2013. This March 2014, the average selling price of a condominium was $276,578.
Homeowners should not give up hope in selling their homes. With the positive increase in the average sales price and positive real estate market, there is more reason to sell their property.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/bonita-springs-real-estate" title="Bonita Homes and Condos" target="_blank"> Bonita Homes and Condos </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/just-listed-condos" title="Just Listed Condos in Naples, FL" target="_blank"> Just Listed Condos in Naples, FL </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/national-housing-trend-report-naples-listings-go-down-in-may-and-ju" title="National Housing Trend Report" target="_blank"> National Housing Trend Report </a> 2014-04-28T01:26:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:53-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33753How To Ensure That You'll Have The Down Payment On Your Next Home<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/17/home-loan.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="265" />
As the housing market recovers, the price of buying a home becomes a challenge for many. In just a year, we have seen a significant increase in the real estate market. National Association of Realtors claims that the median price for a single-family home is now at $203,500. Most mortgages require a 20% down payment. In addition, mortgage rates are starting to rise. That can be quite hefty for most of us.
It is quite hard to save money for down payment to your desired home. Still, there are some ways on how to guarantee your next down payment.
Tips On How To Save For A Down Payment
Look Into Loan Options - As mentioned above, the usual mortgage requires a 20% down payment of the home’s purchase price. Actually, there is an even lower option. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans only require 3.5 percent down payment. The government is supporting most of the closing costs and other fees. If you have FHA-insured loans then lenders are more lenient when it comes to loan qualification requirements. For those who have low credit scores then FHA loans can be the perfect solution.
Open A Savings Account Solely For Down Payment Purposes - To truly save for your down payment, you will need to open a separate account solely intended for that down payment. You also have an option to automatically deduct a certain amount from your monthly paycheck that will be deposited directly to that account. When your savings have reached a certain amount, you can transfer it to certificate of deposit (CD) or low-risk money market.
Trim And Save - Try looking into your monthly budget. You might be spending more than you actually need. Going on shopping sprees? This needs to stop, starting now. You have to focus and visualize for your down payment needs. Shop around for lower rates for your car loan, maybe you can opt for another lender. If you are currently living in an apartment, maybe it is time to transfer to a more affordable one.
Use A Portion Of Your Retirement Fund - This should not be your first option. You can only do this if you no other alternatives. First of all, if you will be using money from your retirement fun you have to know that there will be withdrawal penalty fees and taxes. However, first-time homebuyers can withdraw $10,000 without penalty from individual retirement accounts (IRA). 401(k) account lets you borrow up to 50% of your vested accounts but no more than $50,000. Any funds borrowed from retirement funds are subject to interest and must be repaid within 5 years.
With these options, you now have a guaranteed way to save up for a down payment for a home that you truly desire.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/mortgage-calculator" title="How Much House Can You Afford?" target="_blank"> How Much House Can You Afford? </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/why-would-a-bank-deny-a-home-loan" title="Why would a bank deny a home loan?" target="_blank"> Why would a bank deny a home loan? </a> 2014-04-25T00:19:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:55-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33754State Proposes Gender Separated Schools
<img style="font-size: 12px; float: left; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/kids-at-school_392.jpg" alt="" width="392" height="203" />State lawmakers in Florida proposed a motion to allow more districts in the state to be open to single-gender middle schools. Principals of various boy’s and girl’s school strongly believe that it is in separating genders will the student gain more focus on their academic careers. They believe maturity and social growth as well as honing fresh talents are far more achievable in single gender education of set up.
In Tallahassee, Franklin Boys Preparatory Academy houses male middle school students and a few miles away, girls go to Ferrell Girls Preparatory Academy. Both school’s representatives conveyed their deep satisfaction with the achievements their students make by the end of every term.
March this year, a measure (HB 313) establishing guidelines for founding single gender schools that include enrolment system open for all students within a school district. Later, Senate Bill 514 was cleared by its final committee and now headed to the Senate floor for further discussion. The proposed legislation provided technical guidelines that gender-specific schools must adhere to in order to fully establish the institution. It also requires districts to closely monitor and provide reports on how the single-gender school performs in comparison to co-ed schools within the district.
School officials cited that setting up gender-specific school gives parents more options when it comes to their child’s schooling. Even senators conveyed their positive remarks with regards to this academic set up citing that single-gender schools that are reportedly having premium academic performance might be the gateway for some other districts to adapt the set up.
However, this report gains mixed responses from district subordinates. Members of Lee County teacher’s union expressed their remark that single-gender school is not a one size fits all one. While other students gain academic advancement through this set up, they may lose the chance to socially communicate with opposite genders at their early age. Social growth, therefore, will be neglected.
Lawmakers, on the other hand, concur that gender-specific school should be made available to give parents options and not to overrule the existing traditional co-ed set up. It should not create misunderstanding, but rather give parents the right to choose what they is the best for their children. 2014-04-21T20:54:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:57-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33755On Sale: Fiddler’s Creek Residential Homes with a Touch of Sophisticated Ambiance<img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/files/16/fiddlers-creek.jpg" alt="Fiddler's Creek" width="450" height="300" /><a title="Fiddler's Creek Listings" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek/" target="_self">Fiddler’s Creek</a> has sold off close to 20 percent of Sonoma, an elaborately planned estate within a posh residential setup. The sale of the homes housed by a total of 11 buildings standing within an enclave with a touch of futuristic modernity has been on for a couple of months and is expected to close when the keys to the last one of the 44 houses are handed to over its new owner.<br /> <br />Sonoma village’s features are drawn from classic Mediterranean architectural and structural designs that were accomplished by Lennar Homes. The houses differ in prices as the two-bedroom units go for less compared to the three-bedroom plans. Irrespective of these, all the houses command picturesque view of the lake, in addition to two car garages and air conditioning areas that vary between 1,741 and 2,110 square feet.<br /> <br />The village’s uniqueness stem from its mixed pot of vividly projected architectural characteristics that are complemented by spectacular brick driveways, General Electric home gadgets and Roman bath tubs with a twist of modern and ancient outlooks. The granite countertops that spruce the kitchens, high energy efficiency ratings and tiled in-house surfaces makes the units’ lowest price of $ 281,990 a deal worth thinking about.
As a community, Fiddler’s Creek has clipped numerous awards under its wings including the 2013 CBIA Sand Dollar Awards. <br /> <br />Besides beauty, Fiddler’s Creek is also blessed with an array of amenities that’s inclusive of a 54,000 square feet fun area that’s home to a modern fitness center, a club and spa section and a tot lot. Members of the Fiddler’s Creek community enjoy swimming sessions in a swimming complex with tropical lagoon features as fine restaurants make dinning in the estate an exhilarating treat that augers well with the community’s celebrations and events that you can catch up with at any time of the year.
The community’s golf club has a place in <a title="Fiddler’s Creek Course Ranked among United States’ Best" href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/fiddlers-creek-course-ranked-among-united-states-best.html" target="_self">Golfweek’s top 100 residential golf courses</a> in the U.S. As part of Fiddler’s Creek community, you’re granted the opportunity to share in the Golf Club’s spoils that has received exceptional consecutive rankings for close to a decade. Residents are also presented the opportunity to take up The Tarpon Club membership for an invigorated beach way of life. Both clubs accept a regulated number of non-residents as members to give the estate an exotic blend of fun fare that’s hard to bump into elsewhere in the face of the planet.<br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek-homes" title="Fiddler's Creek Homes" target="_blank"> Fiddler's Creek Homes </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/fiddlers-creek-course-ranked-among-united-states-bes" title="Fiddler’s Creek Course Ranked among United States’ Best" target="_blank"> Fiddler’s Creek Course Ranked among United States’ Best </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/fiddlers-creek-subdivisions" title="Fiddler's Creek Subdivisions" target="_blank"> Fiddler's Creek Subdivisions </a> 2014-04-17T20:42:00-07:002023-01-26T08:04:59-07:00Office Stafftag:equityrealty.com,2012-09-20:33756A Brand New Look For The Iconic Naples Pier<img style="font-size: 12px; margin: 10px; float: left;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4509/image/store/uploads/naples-pier_337.jpg" alt="" width="337" height="169" />The Naples city Pier, a much-loved and frequently visited city landmark, could undergo a major makeover very soon. Engineers who examined the well-worn boards, decking, railings, and other aspects of the pier have estimated that the repair costs will amount to nothing less than $900,000, which includes the cost of replacing a minimum of 2,000 boards among other fittings. Part of the repair and beautification plan also involves incorporating stainless steel and composite decking in order to reduce future maintenance costs. However, the issue at present revolves around acquiring the finance to begin repair work. At present, the city of Naples is permitted to collect up to $200,000 in annual tourist taxes. The idea is to collect 3 years worth of advance taxes in order to pay for the work. With over a million visitors in 2013, the pier is sure to attract double the number of tourists post-repair and maintenance work, which will result in it being shut down for up to 60 days for the purpose. However, the residents of Naples are confident that the city will see to it that pier repairs and associated costs are taken care of, and the pier, restored to its former glory. <br /><br />Related Links <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/stock-unveils-new-townhome-model-in-paseo" title="Stock Unveils New Townhome Model in Paseo" target="_blank"> Stock Unveils New Townhome Model in Paseo </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/hidden-southwest-florida-beaches" title="Hidden Southwest Florida Beaches" target="_blank"> Hidden Southwest Florida Beaches </a> <a href="https://www.equityrealty.com/blog/stock-completes-inventory-homes-in-majorca-at-fiddlers-creek" title="Stock Completes Inventory Homes in Majorca at Fiddler's Creek" target="_blank"> Stock Completes Inventory Homes in Majorca at Fiddler's Creek </a> 2014-04-08T21:41:00-07:002023-01-26T08:05:01-07:00Office Staff