Reflecting on how far real estate has come in recent years, I want to share with you some insights to the past and some opinions (yes, personal opinions) about where we are going. 

 In a recent seminar, the presenter spoke about a presentation he hosted in Italy.  He talked about how antiquated their MLS system (or lack there of) is.  They are still on a paper system, yes, as in chop down trees / paper system.  There is no such thing as an MLS or a Realtor.com, Trulia or Zillow.  How many of you remember those days?  I certainly do not.  With the technology available today it seems an incredible injustice to both buyers and sellers to limit the speed at which information can be accessed.

 Let's face it, we live in a fast-paced world.  Last week, we took on 2 new listings and within 2 days on the market, both were under contract.  This is a scenario which is great for both the buyers and the sellers (ok, we didn't complain either).  Would this have ever happened in the old paper system?  Absolutely not.  Actually, no one would have even know the homes were on the market in the first place. 

 Lucky for us, we're not Italy.  Clearly technology has played a huge role in streamlining transactions.  According to the National Association of Realtors, 74% of people use the Internet to search for a home.  I actually think that number seems a bit low.   Consumers are on third-party sites in droves looking for homes.  The number of sites available to the public is substantial.  The business of getting people to websites and the selling of lead information is cut-throat.  Some have been successful, most have not. All smart phones and tablets have apps to facilitate the process as well.  Some will even notify you of a nearby open house.  Very slick!

 The major issue with any third party site is their ability to get the most up-to-date data from the MLS.  I cannot tell you how many phone calls I have received from excited potential buyers about this "hot" property with a great price that is showing up as active on the third party sites.  My end of conversation usually goes something like this.  "Wow, that is a fantastic deal.  Unfortunately, it seems as though someone already has that home under contract.  Where did you see the home for sale?  Oh, Trulia (or any other website), ok.  Unfortunately their data is not always up-to-date, but I can put you on my personal notification list, so you can literally be notified as a similar home comes on the market." 

It's never fun bursting anyone's bubble, but the reality of today's technology forces me to.  Great deals do not just sit on the market for a long time.  They happen quickly.  Given today's technology, people still need a cutting edge Realtor to find the best deals for them. 

So, back to the big question.  Do I think real estate agents will go away forever?  No.  As time goes on, the third party sites will need to figure out a way to get better data.  I know this will happen eventually, but finding the right home for a potential buyer is only a small part of a Realtor's job.  The video below says it all.  

Real Estate technology is a constantly and rapidly evolving business.   We now have the ability to run a completely paperless real estate business. whether it is searching the MLS online, third-party websites, or even getting electronic signatures, technology has certainly made our lives easier, but it will never replace the professional, not in my lifetime anyway. 

Waterfront Homes in Cypress Cay

Waterfront homes are abundant in Cypress Cay.  The community is centered around a beautiful lake.  Water is abundant in Southwest Florida and Cypress Cay is no exception.  What is your preference when it comes to the setting for your home?  There are those who prefer not to be on the water for safety concerns.  If you have small children you may worry that it will be difficult to watch them and keep them safe.  Still others worry about the possibility of alligators or snakes.

For a great many though a lake means tranquility.  I personally fall in to this category.  A dedicated water person is soothed whenever they gaze out over the ripples that glisten in the sunlight.  Take a look at the waterfront homes in Cypress Cay.  Regardless of the size and style of home you prefer you will find it in the waterfront homes in Cypress Cay.  Everything from small ranch homes to large two stories  are available on a regular basis.  In addition, you will find that there are great floor plans available. 

Since this community is not gated access is easy for the active person on the go.  In reality gated communities are more of a facade than true security and some would rather not be bothered.  You will find that waterfront homes in Cypress Cay are just as safe and secure as the homes in neighboring communities.  The fact that the gates are missing just means that the residents are not saddled with the expense of maintaining automatic gates that are constantly receiving a work out.  Here are the current listings for waterfront homes in Cypress Cay.  Do any of them look attractive to you? 

Give us a call at the Dohack Group and we will work hand in hand with you to find the perfect waterfront home in Cypress Cay.  We are very familiar with the community and anxious to work with you.  Our clients who have purchased in there have been very happy and enjoy living in this close knit community.   Why not be next on the list of satisfied clients?

Bank Owned Homes in The Plantation, Fort Myers

If you want to land one of the bank owned homes in The Plantation, Fort Myers you will need to be at the top of your game and have a team that works hard to get the job done.  Why is that?  The Plantation has been spared of much of the distress that much of Lee County has experienced.  While the community was developed during the period of time that was cursed due to the over-inflated prices and unrealistic mortgages it has weathered the storm much better than most.  To begin with, the clientele that purchased in The Plantation were a more secure sector of the population with higher than average means.  As a result they tended to have more equity in their property and thus deflation of prices, while deteriorating their value left fewer upside down than elsewhere.  Furthermore, as a result of far fewer defaults prices did not fall as precipitously as in other areas. 

All of these factors come together to make The Plantation a much more stable community.  Take a look to see if there are any Bank Owned homes in The Plantation, Fort Myers at this time.  Chances are that there are not.  That is precisely why I sat that you need a committed team and you need to be at the top of your game.  The Plantation is a much sought after community and when there is an opportunity to purchase in there at a value price people take quick action.  As of the time of this writing the Foreclosure process has been stalled by the large lenders due to slip shot practices in the processing of the paperwork.  This has resulted in a reduced inventory and slower sales.

What it may mean though is an opportunity when this mess is cleaned up.  There are an increasing number of homes sitting in limbo just waiting to clear the scrutiny of increased auditing.  Once this is accomplished the back log will come to the market and create an opportunity for those who have been waiting for the perfect home in the perfect place.  Take this opportunity to see if there are any bank owned homes for sale in The Plantation, Fort Myers at this time.

Finally, I have eluded to the fact that you need a team.  At the Dohack Group we are dedicated to leading our clients to success.  We have systems in place that assure that when something new comes to the market we are the first to know and our clients find out immediately.  Take your first and biggest step toward your goal of purchasing a bank owned home in The Plantation, Fort Myers, pick up the phone and give us a call.

Gobble, Gobble, Gobble

For some of us there’s nothing more thrilling than the aroma of roasting turkey and warm pumpkin pies in our own kitchen on Thanksgiving Day. For some of us there’s nothing more thrilling than going out for dinner, so we can pile on ham and three kinds of potatoes as well as the turkey, and let someone else wash those dishes.

Since we are in an area where few are born and raised here Holiday traditions may be different and include at least one meal eaten out on Thanksgiving.  This is an abbreviated list of area restaurants that are open and anxious to serve you.  As an ex-restaurateur I encourage you to please be generous with the staff.  They are giving up time with their families to make yours enjoyable.  Be generous, both with kindness and cash.   Also listed are several restaurants that are offering takeout if ordered in advance of Thanksgiving.

This is not necessarily a complete listing. All restaurants that send in their menu, hours, prices and phone numbers will be added to our online listing at www.naplesnews.com :

Bamboo Cafe French Home Cooking will be open from 4 to 9:30 p.m. and will feature a Bell & Evans turkey dinner with French green beans, sweet potato puree, chestnut brandy stuffing and cranberry orange relish for $23.95 per person and $9 for children at 755 12th Ave. S., Naples. The regular menu will also be available. Reservations: 643-6177.

Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar is offering a traditional turkey dinner with country stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry orange sauce for $22.50 at 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. Reservations: 549-5552. You can watch chef Abel Gonzalez make his cornbread stuffing on CookIt! today at naplesnews.com/cookit.

Bistro 821, 821 Fifth Ave. S., Naples, will open at 4 p.m. Reservations: 261-5821

Bokampers, 8990 Fontana Del Sol Way, Naples, is serving a traditional dinner for $16.99 and is also offering its full menu. Reservations: 431-7611

Cafe Luna is serving a turkey dinner and its regular menu at 487 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Reservations: 213-2212

Casa Mia Italian Steakhouse, 155 First Ave., Marco Island, is having a traditional Thanksgiving dinner from 3 to 7 p.m. that includes turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, a vegetable and pumpkin pie for $24.99 for adults and 412.99 for children under 12. The regular menu will also be available. Reservations: 642-5253

Cote d’Azur Restaurant Provencal, Riverchase Plaza, 11224 U.S. 41 N., Naples, will open at 4:30 p.m. Reservations: 597-8867

Daniela’s, 13500 U.S. 41 N., Naples, is featuring a Thanksgiving dinner for two that includes turkey, salad and traditional sides for $34.99. Reservations: 514-4414

Doc’s Beach House, 27908 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs, will be serving a turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, dressing, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole and dessert for $12.99 starting at noon until the restaurant runs out. Reservations will not be taken; just walk in, and you can enjoy your meal in your flip flops. Information: 992-6444

Falafel Grill is serving a three-course dinner for $19.95 at 2075 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Reservations: 514-1787

Fred’s Food, Fun & Spirits will offer a Thanksgiving menu from 2 to 6 p.m. and Stu Shelton and Patricia Dean will entertain with live jazz from 3 to 6 p.m. at 2700 Immokalee Road, Naples. Reservations: 431-7928

M Waterfront Grille will serve Thanksgiving dinner from noon until 9 p.m., along with its regular menu, at 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. The traditional dinner is roasted turkey, maple glazed sweet potato mash, cranberry relish, manchego cheese-smashed potatoes, glazed organic vegetable and stuffing for $24.95 per adult and $12.95 per child. Reservations: 263-4421

Mimi’s Cooking, 2099 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, will be open from 4 to 9 p.m. with its regular dinner menu and a special of roasted turkey with granny apple stuffing, thyme sauce, fresh cranberry marmalade, sweet potato puree, string beans almandine and a complimentary bowl of pumpkin soup for $18.75. Reservations: 566-2275

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is featuring a Thanksgiving Day buffet with traditional fare and more from 1 to 6 p.m. at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples; $49 for adults; $16 for children 6-12 and free for children five and under. Reservations: 435-4348 or 261-2222

HB’s on the Gulf, the beach front restaurant at the hotel, will offer a three-course Thanksgiving dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. for $34. Reservations: 435-4347 or 261-2222

McCormick & Schmik’s Seafood Restaurant, the Mercato, 9114 Strada Place, Naples, is serving a three-course traditional Thanksgiving dinner for $22.95 from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations: 591-2299

Mel’s Diner is serving a turkey dinner for $11.99 at 3650 U.S. 41 N., Naples, 643-9898; 12035 Collier Blvd., Naples, 455-4242; and 28601 Trails Edge Blvd., Bonita Springs, 949-3080.

Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Drive, Naples, is offering a buffet with carving stations, an antipasto and organic lettuce bar and a dessert selection in the Vista Ballroom from noon to 7:30 p.m. for $59.95 for adults and $29.95 for children 5 to 12 and free for children under 4. Reservations: 254-5600

Noodles Italian Cafe & Sushi Bar, 1585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, is serving a traditional dinner for two for $29.95 from 3 to 8 p.m. Reservations: 592-0050

Old Europe Bistro is having a traditional turkey dinner for $22.90 and other specials from 4 to 9 p.m. at Naples Walk, 2464 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Reservations: 254-9690

Pate’s Steakhouse is featuring a traditional young tom turkey dinner with homemade cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, candied yams, French-style green beans, gravy, cranberry sauce, salad and pumpkin pie for $23.95 per person from 1:30 to 9 p.m. at 1100 U.S. 41 N., Naples. Other entrees will also be available. Reservations: 263-4581

Rodes Fish Market and Restaurant, 3756 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, will serve a turkey dinner with pumpkin or apple pie from noon to 9 p.m. for $16.99 per person. Reservations: 992-4040

Shula’s Steakhouse at the Hilton Naples & Towers, 5111 U.S. 41 N., Naples. Reservations: 430-4999

The Bay House, 799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples, will be open from noon to 8 p.m. Reservations: 591-3837

The Jolly Cricket is serving a tradition turkey dinner with all the sides and dessert from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 720 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Reservations: 304-9460

Truluck’s is serving dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. at 698 Fourth Ave. S., Naples. Reservations: 530-3131

Zizi will have a buffet with turkey and other entrees, sides, potatoes and desserts, noon to 8 p.m. $32.95, adults; $12.95, children 4 to 10 ; and free, children under 3, Bellasera Hotel, 221 U.S. 41 N., Naples. Reservations: 262-5835

Thanksgiving take-out

Alexander’s Restaurant is taking orders for Thanksgiving that may be picked up on Nov. 24 at 4077 U.S. 41 N., Naples. Go to www.alexandernaples.com for a listing of what is available or call 262-4999.

Caffe dell’Amore, 1400 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples, has dishes to take out for Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Information: 261-1389

Thanksgiving eve

Mr. Jerry’s Tavern will offer drink specials and live entertainment from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Nov. 24 at 13510 U.S. 41 N., Naples. The restaurant will offer drink specials and live entertainment.

Short Sales in The Plantation, Fort Myers

They do not come around often but periodically there are short sales in The Plantation.  Perhaps if you have a goal of purchasing a short sale in the Plantation you should contact us right away.  Since this is such a desirable community a property such as this will not last for long and having someone on top of it can be the difference between being the one that is successful and being the one on the sideline. 

The Plantation is one of the few developments that continues to sell new homes.  This fact has helped to keep the prices from taking a nose dive to the extent that other communities have.  The homes are built by Centex and display really great floor plans.  In addition the quality of the construction is apparent whenever you take a tour.  You are immediately greeted with the lush tropical landscaping, well thought out master planning, beautiful homes.  It is indeed the fortunate few that will be able to tap in to all of this amazing beauty and tranquility by purchasing a short sale.  Take a look to see if there are currently any short sales in The Plantation, Fort Myers.

The Plantation offers a variety of living arrangements from condominiums to coach homes to villas and then single family homes of every size all the way up to Estate homes.  A few of the offerings are the Trinidad Series, the Grenada series, the Antigua series, and the Caymen series.  Each series offers 5 or 6 elevations so that there is variety and no two houses are the same.  With such variety, beauty, and quality is no surprise that sales are continuing in spite of the difficult times.  Take a look and see if there are currently any short sales in The Plantation, Fort Myers.

Give us a call at the Dohack Group and put us to work.  We will happily keep an eye out for the perfect short sale in The Plantation.  The opportunities will be few and far between.

"It's finally happening, we've bought our "home away from home", thanks to Brad Dohack! After several visits and as many real estate agents, we had about given up finding a winter home in Fort Myers-until we met Brad. He really listened to our "wish list" and provided a variety of homes for us to see. There was no question that he could not answer and believe me, we had plenty!  When we became discouraged, his friendly, but professional attitude kept us going. Not only did we find the best real estate agent in Brad, but we also made a great friend. Thanks Brad!"  ~Jim & Kathleen Schriver  

The Plantation Fort Myers Bank Owned

Thank you for tuning into yet another episode of "How do I get the best deal on Fort Myers, FL Real Estate?"  The star of the show today is The Plantation community, specifically the Plantation Fort Myers bank owned homes.  

It's no secret, people looking to buy in this market are looking for 1 primary characteristic in their future home or condo.  They want a phenomenal deal.  I can certainly understand this mentality, especially with what the media portrays as the current status of the market.  

The hard part for people to grasp is the fact that almost EVERYTHING in this market is a phenomenal deal.  Look at it like you would a sale at your favorite retail store.  Let's look at it from this hypothetical situation.  "Hey everyone! There's a 50% off sale the entire year at Macy's!"  Would you go to Macy's to buy something...probably.

The Plantation Fort Myers bank owned homes are no different than that sale at Macy's.  Well, no different except for 1 major point...the inventory is very scarce.  Bank owned foreclosures do not come along very often in Plantation Fort Myers.  The developer Centex, couldn't have possibly started the project at a worse time, but the fact remains that very few foreclosures come on the market, because the community is so new.  

When they do come on the market, you can be sure there will be competition for that property, because everyone knows that foreclosures are the best deals on the market.  Just in fair warning, be prepared to come in at or around the listing price, because if it is a truly nice foreclosure, they tend to sell at or above it.  

Also, keep in mind that being there first is a huge advantage when it comes to bidding on a foreclosure.  I get notified instantly when a new foreclosure come on the market in the Plantation.  If you would like to be notified as well, let me know and I'll be happy to set it up for you.  Also, for your benefit, here is the market report for Plantation Fort Myers.  

Waterfront Homes in the Plantation, Fort Myers

In the process of buying a home you have to start somewhere.  I am a believer in the old adage Location, Location, Location.  First you must start with the community.  It is hard to deny that Plantation is outstanding.  It is beautifully laid out with beauty abounding.  The lush tropical landscaping is the backdrop to this beautiful golf community.  It is but a short drive to the club house where you see first hand what this community is all about.  Take a look to see if there are any waterfront homes in the Plantation, Fort Myers.  The tasteful decorating greets you and is everywhere as you walk through this huge amenity center that houses the restaurant, bar, banquet rooms, billiard room, card room, and the pro shop.  My favorite feature here though is the veranda which overlooks the golf course.  What a great place to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a cocktail.

All of this and yet it is just the beginning of the amazing amenities that are central to this community.  The pool area and second club house are there to greet you and offer a serene atmosphere for those of you that wish to worship the sun or just looking for a quiet place to settle in with a good book.  Needless to say there are work out rooms, and areas to assemble and mingle with your friends.

Taking the location mentality to another level brings us to waterfront homes in the Plantation, Fort Myers.  Water and sunshine are the two things that one thinks of when you bring up Florida.  What better combination of the two is there than to have both right outside your own back door.  Sit on your lanai and see Mother Nature at her finest.  Watch the tranquil scenery as the wind blows across the water and causes ripples that dance in the sun.  Look here to see if there are any waterfront homes in the Plantation, Fort Myers at this time.

Give us a call at the Dohack Group and we will help you in your search for a waterfront home in the Plantation, Fort Myers.  It is time you enjoy the lifestyle you have been working all your life to achieve.