Steven's Blog

The Apple iPad and Real Estate

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 23:17:03 -0700

The new iPad from will APPLE will be released next month. What do you think about it? Do you like it? Do you think realtors can use the iPad in their everyday use? When it was first introduced by Steve Jobs, I thought it was cool product. The demo that he gave was phenominal. I have always been an APPLE fan but never was able to afford any of their laptops, I have not yet converted to the iPhone just yet (always been a Blackberry user) however one day I will own a MacBook Pro, yes I will. But back to what I was writing about, can the iPad be used for the everyday real estate agent. I think that it can be very useful to the everyday agent due to its capabilities and ease of use. If you have been a APPLE user all of your life then you should have no problems of using it.

Some the features that will be great for real estate agents are the fact you can have a listing presentation be more interactive than on regular laptop and be impressive with giving a listing presentations. Showing property images to both buyers and sellers. Look for information while on the road with clients (obviously you have to have the 3G service from AT&T). I don't think that it can run the Windows Emulator where I can get access to the Multiple Listing Service (which only runs on Internet Explorer). And many more functions that would make it easier for agents.

Am I going to run to the store when it becomes available? I don't think so, I would rather wait until the frenzy dies down and see if it really makes sense for me to get the iPad. I would rather invest my money in a 15" MacBook Pro that can run Windows emulator and be able to connect to the MLS. Apple is bringing another great product to consumers...Like I said, one day I will own a MacBook Pro.

What are your comments...let me know...Leave me a comment...

For Sale - Listing in Boca Raton, FL

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 01:25:32 -0800

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

19993 Villa Medici Place, Boca Raton, FL

Beautiful Single Family Home in Boca Fontana

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $225,000

Year Built	1986
Sq Footage	1,646
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	6,969 sqft
HOA/Maint	$199 per month

DESCRIPTION

Well maintained, very clean and bright SFH, located in a great community, in a Cul-De Sac on canal. Great neighborhood, close to shopping centers and all a-rated schools and close to houses of worship. The home has an eat-in kitchen a extra large family room, large master bed room and walk-in closet. The screened porch is "L" shaped and is extra large. All windows are huricane proof. All appliances in kitchen new, roof brand new, A/C less than 2 years old. There are 6 fans and 2 smoke detectors

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor	- Living room
- Dining room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Microwave	- Washer
- Dryer	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse	- Swimming pool(s)	- Sauna/Spa
- Tennis court(s)	- Lake

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front Exterior

Contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 7, 2010, 9:35pm PST

Rental Listing in Coconut Creek

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 01:02:41 -0800

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

1802 Tamarind Lane, Coconut Creek, FL

Available Townhouse in Coconut Creek for Rent.

2BR/2BA Townhouse

$1,350/month

Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Sq Footage	1,256
Parking	1 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$1,350

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful 2/2 Villa that is in the heart of Coconut Creek. Newer Kitchen with updated kitchen applainces and cabintes. Washer/Dryer included. Eat-In Kitchen. Family Room. Walk-In Closets.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Air conditioning	- Hardwood floor	- Family room
- Living room	- Dining room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Washer	- Dryer	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Cable-ready

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

- Clubhouse

- Swimming pool(s)

LEASE TERMS

Annual Lease; First, Last and Security Deposit.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front Exterior

Contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 7, 2010, 9:17pm PST

Welcome to 2010!

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:43:58 -0800

Welcome to the Year 2010!

Yes, I know...it's already the end of February and you thought I neglected this Blog site. Well, you are wrong. I have actually been really busy with my real estate career. I have been working with first-time homebuyers as well as investors to find them dream properties. Amazing, isn't it...There are actual buyers out there looking for properties. Finding the properties, that is the challenging part of this. I mean, we find them and you ask the Listing agent if there are any offers on them - most often they say - yes. That is real frustrating part of this job to me as well as the buyers. They seem to fall in love with them and you turn around and call them and say - "I am so sorry, there is already an offer on the property". Agents should have the common courtesy to change the MLS status as soon as they have just one single offer. But I also understand their point of view, they are interested in getting more offers on the people...But what can I do...I am just looking forward to having a good year, finally after years of frustration.

On a good note - I finally closed on my sisters house in Wellington, FL - a cute little single family house that is in a great community. This was the perfect house for my little sister. She so deserves it. It took us awhile to find it, but is worthwhile. I just hope I get invited to the Housewarming Party!

Well...this for the year 2010...the year I finally say - Steven you have made the right decision in going into the real estate industry.

Talk to you all later...Hopefully sooner than later...

- Steven Bastian

Beautiful Condo in Sunrise Available! Call for Information

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 16:06:53 -0800

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | steven.bastian@floridamoves.com | 561-542-1359

9941 Nob Hill Lane, Sunrise, FL

Waterfront Condo available in Sunrise, FL

1BR/1BA Condo

$850/month

Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Sq Footage	900
Parking	1 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$850

DESCRIPTION

Here is a condo located in the heart of Sunrise in a great community called Villa de Venezia. Unit Condo has a newer kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Carpet and tiled throughout the unit. Screened-In Patio overlooking waterfront. Close to shopping and major highways. First month and security deposit moves you right in. Available February 1, 2010.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Air conditioning	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Living room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Microwave	- Granite countertop
- Stainless steel appliances	- Washer	- Dryer
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Cable-ready

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking	- Clubhouse	- Fitness center
- Swimming pool(s)	- Sauna/Spa	- Tennis court(s)

LEASE TERMS

Annual Lease. First and Security moves you in.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

steven.bastian@floridamoves.com

561-542-1359

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 25, 2009, 2:01pm PST

Ready for Immediate Move-In in Coconut Creek, FL

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 15:58:24 -0800

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

4840 N State Road 7, Coconut Creek, FL

Newly Renovated and Updated Condo in Gated Community!

3BR/2BA Condo

$1,325/month

Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Parking	2 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$1,325

DESCRIPTION

REDUCED! and available for immediate occupancy. Beautiful condo in a very nice gated community. 3 assigned parking spaces with the ability to rent a garage (pending availabilty from the HOA). The condo was recently renovated. Freshly painted and new carpets and offers a newer kitchen and bathrooms. The community is centrally located to major shopping areasas well to major highways. The commuity offers a pool and fitness center available to the tenants. Located approx 30 m inutes to the beach and to the airports. Community offers a pool and fitness center.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Air conditioning	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Living room	- Dining room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Washer	- Dryer	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Swimming pool	- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool	- Sauna
- Cable-ready

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking	- Clubhouse	- Fitness center
- Swimming pool(s)	- Sauna/Spa	- Tennis court(s)
- Lake	- Gated property	- Secured entry

LEASE TERMS

Annua Lease. First, Last & Security Deposit Requested.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front Entrance	Kitchen
Living Room	Community Pool
Fitness Center	Gate

Contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 25, 2009, 2:31pm PST

For Sale - 3/2 Condo in Delray Beach, FL - $179,900

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:48:35 -0700

For Rent - Townhouse in Gated Community in Coconut Creek Available for Immediate Occupancy

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Sun, 18 May 2008 21:58:09 -0700

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

2153 NW 37th Ave, Coconut Creek, FL

Townhouse in Gated Community in Coconut Creek available for
immediate occupancy.

2BR/2.5BA Townhouse

$1,400/month

Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,357
Parking	2 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$1,400

DESCRIPTION

Very nice 2/2.5 w/Loft Townhouse in gated community. Vaulted ceiling, newer appliances, carpet and ceramic floors, good schools. Washer & Dryer Included. Lot's of Amenities in the Community.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

Air conditioning	Central heat	High/Vaulted ceiling
Walk-in closet	Tile floor	Living room
Loft layout	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Washer
Dryer	Laundry area - inside	Cable-ready

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Storage space(s)
Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)	Sauna/Spa
Tennis court(s)	Lake	Playground
Gated property	Secured entry

LEASE TERMS

Landlord prefers to have 1st month, last month and security deposit. Willing to negotiate the terms.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Renter contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 18, 2008, 5:49pm PDT

For Rent: Two-Story Townhome in Plantation close to Broward Mall - $1650/month

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Sun, 18 May 2008 21:32:28 -0700

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

120 Jacaranda Country Club Dr, Plantation, FL

Ready to Move-In & Available in a 2 Story Townhouse in Plantation

3BR/2.5BA Townhouse

$1,650/month

Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,445
Parking	2 dedicated
Pet Policy	Small dogs (< 25lbs)
Deposit	$1,650

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful 2 Story Townhome with Waterfront view in a quiet community next to Jacaranda Golf Course! Townhouse shows like a model with a large upgraded kitchen (marble countertops), tiled throughout the 1st floor and carpet on 2nd floor. Beautiful and relaxing view from the patio. Master bathroom with Roman tub. Gated Community. Commuity Pool. Community is across to Plantation Central Park and located close to shopping areas amd major highways. Call Listing agent for further information.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

Air conditioning	Central heat	High/Vaulted ceiling
Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Living room	Dining room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Cable-ready

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Swimming pool(s)
Gated property

LEASE TERMS

Landlord prefers to have 1st month, last month & Security Deposit. Landlord is willing to listen to all offers.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Renter contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 18, 2008, 5:21pm PDT

For Sale: Condo in Coral Springs, FL - $80,000

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Sun, 18 May 2008 21:08:19 -0700

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

4128 NW 88th Ave, Unit 204, Coral Springs, FL

Condo Available in a Great Part of Coral Springs and close to Shopping

1BR/1.5BA Condo

offered at $80,000

Year Built	1975
Sq Footage	850
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$158 per month

DESCRIPTION

Clean, spacious 1/1.5 corner unit available in Ramblewood East. Very Spacious. Clean Carpet throughout the condo. Updated Kitchen with newer applainces. Large Screened-In Patio accessible from the Living and Master Bedroom.Condo has views to a Public Park, and has a brand new roof. Unit is Move-In Ready. Community is located close to shopping area. All Ages Community. Monthly Association comes with Basic Cable, Water, Insurance, Trash Removal. Clubhouse has Full Gym, Pool, Jacuzzi & Spa and other Amenties. Associatiion requires 10% DownPayment.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Microwave	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Laundry on-site
Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)	Sauna/Spa
Tennis court(s)

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 18, 2008, 4:43pm PDT

Crist creates foreclosure task force

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 11:49:10 -0800

Just weeks after President Bush moved forward with his own plan to try and stall the quickly escalating home foreclosure rates in the nation, Gov. Charlie Crist has taken a few steps of his own by creating the Florida Home Ownership Promotes the Economy, or HOPE Task Force.

Using an executive order, Crist said he intends to bring together experts in the mortgage and banking industries as well as consumer advocates and policy experts to review Florida's foreclosure rate and its impact on the state economy.

"Foreclosure hurts all Floridians by depressing home values and causing families to lose homes, jobs and hope," Crist said in a statement. "As this task force comes together to explore solutions, we will search for ways to restore hope to Florida's families, and to our state's economy,"

Florida was ranked second in the number of home foreclosures in the nation in 2007, doubling the number of foreclosures recorded in 2006. It's a number that effects 1 in every 95 households in the state, said Alex Sink, Florida's chief financial officer.

"Working with the Governor's HOPE Task Force, my office will be focused on identifying solutions to help families work through the often confusing and difficult process of retaining their homes," Sink said in a release.

The task force will meet for the first time on March 3 in Tallahassee and it other meetings scheduled for March 19 and April 2. It is expected to present recommendations to state leaders by April 18.

Among those on the task force will be Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp as its chair, along with Sink; State Sen. Bill Posey, R-Rockledge; State Sen. Tony Hill, D-Jacksonville; State Rep. Franklin Sands, D-Plantation; Rep. Garrett Richter, R-Naples; Alex Sanchez of the Florida Bankers Association, D. Ritch Workman of the Florida Association of Mortgage Brokers, Mike Fields of Bank of America, Thomas Kuntz of SunTrust, Nancy Riley of the Florida Realtors Association, Bill Newton of the Florida Consumer Action Network and Steve Auger of the Florida Housing Finance Corp.

Richter not only is a state representative but also is the founder and chief executive officer of First National Bank of Florida.

The task force also will look at the state's banking and mortgage industries with a focus on the subprime market and the laws and regulations that govern foreclosures. It will identify and assess public and private financial resources and educational opportunities available to assist Florida homeowners, the release said.

Learn More About Local Tax Dollars

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:45:27 -0800

Is your local government spending twice as much as it did five years ago yet crying that it's poor? Or have local officials been wise caretakers of local tax dollars. In an effort to educate Floridians about their own local government income and spending, Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink has announced the launch of "Your Local Government Dollars and Cents," which can be found on her Web site at http://www.MyFloridaCFO.com. It gives Floridians easy access to their local government's revenues and expenditures. "I encourage every Floridian to use this tool and get more involved in how their local tax dollars are spent," Sink says. "With governments actively cutting their budgets, it is essential that Floridians make it clear what their priorities are for their communities." This new tool allows you to search by city, county or special district for a variety of revenue information including: ad valorem taxes, grants, fees and fines. You can also look up a local government's expenditure information, including amounts spent on schools, transportation, public safety, general government and more. You can create reports comparing governments, revenues and expenditures, and electronic data is available by year from 1993 through 2007. Since 1973, Florida law has required the state Department of Financial Services to collect this financial information from local governments. If you're also interested in revenue and expenditures data for local school districts, that information can be found at Florida's Department of Education, according to Sink.

FOR RENT - Boca Raton, FL - 1 Bed / 1.5 Bath - $1200/month - On the Intracoastel & and walking distance to the Ocean.

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:58:39 -0800

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

2871 N. Ocean Blvd. #V141, Boca Raton, FL

Condo close to the beach and located on the Intracoastel.

1 Bdrm Condo

$1,600/month

Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,000
Parking	1 dedicated
Pet Policy	Cats
Deposit	$1,600

DESCRIPTION

BEATUFIUL 1/1 CONDO CLOSE TO THE OCEAN AND ON THE INTRACOASTEL. CONDO IS TILED IN THE KITCHEN AND WOOD FLOOR THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE CONDO. UNIT IS LOCATED ON THE FIRST FLOOR AND CLOSE TO THE WATER. UNIT COMES WITH OWN COVERED PARKING SPOT.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

Air conditioning	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Hardwood floor	Tile floor	Living room
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Clubhouse	Laundry on-site
Storage space(s)	Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)
Sauna/Spa	Gated property	Secured entry

LEASE TERMS

1 YEAR LEASE TERM.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Renter contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 10, 2007, 9:43am PST

FOR SALE in Coral Springs, FL - 2 Bed / 1.5 Bath - $89,900

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:53:46 -0800

Steven Bastian | Coldwell Banker | 561-542-1359

4271 NW 89th Ave, Unit 102, Coral Springs, FL

Condo in the Heart of Coral Springs.

1 Bdrm Condo

offered at $89,900

Year Built	1975
Sq Footage	681
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	740 sqft
HOA/Maint	$240 per month

DESCRIPTION

BEAUTIFUL 1 BEDROOM AND 1.5 BATHROOM IN RAMBLEWOOD EAST. UNIT IS ON THE FIRST FLOOR. UNIT HAS CARPET AND TILE FLOORING THROUGHOUT. FURNITURE IS NEGOTIABLE. PERFECT FOR THE FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Living room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Business center	Clubhouse
Laundry on-site	Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)
Sauna/Spa	Tennis court(s)	Playground

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Steven Bastian

Coldwell Banker

561-542-1359

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 13, 2007, 10:42am PST

MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE MEDIA

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:43:15 -0800

Phoenix-based real estate agent Brett Barry of Realty Executives International underscores the importance of press coverage in today's market, even if media reports talk about the negative aspects of buying and selling properties. Barry has been featured in Fortune magazine and on MSNBC as a real estate expert, which he says is the result of a proactive strategy to become a regular source for the media. In his early days in real estate, Barry would call and leave messages for local newspaper reporters, and even now he sends e-mails or calls reporters at least once a week to present story ideas. "It's to the point where I now hear from them once or twice a month," he says. "Sometimes they use my ideas, sometimes they are just looking for a photo op with a certain kind of buyer." Other real estate experts urge agents to get involved with charitable organizations, compete for industry awards, or present data from the local MLS as a means of getting press. Additionally, they could pitch a story about historical properties or unique listings.

Success Tips

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 12:31:47 -0800

Despite weakness in the housing market, Realtors continue to close transactions. Real estate professionals have several strategies to weather the downturn, but most recognize a need to return to the basics of selling property. They look their best all the time, maintain a positive outlook about their local markets and place phone calls to secure new business. They talk about their jobs with anyone. Harold Martin of Keller Williams Realty in Florida, for instance, puts his nametag on slightly crooked and discusses real estate with whatever person lets him know to straighten it. Additionally, he added his picture to his business card, takes training courses and ensures that his contact database is updated. Most importantly, practitioners understand that building a client relationship based on trust is crucial and requires them to tell the truth about a particular home or market.

MARKET YOURSELF ONLINE

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:43:58 -0800

Real estate professionals increasingly spend more money on online marketing because research shows most homebuyers turn to the Internet to initiate property searches. Online marketing does not have to be expensive or difficult, and there are several easy steps that associates can take to create a Web presence, including the use of their e-mail and Web site addresses on fliers, business cards, postcards and other communications. Also, they should to ask for callers' e-mail addresses so that they can send e-newsletters. Associates should send "Just Listed" or "Just Sold" e-postcards containing photographs, as well as market reports and updates, to all of their contacts - a move that eliminates postage costs. Additionally, associates should post their listings and open house information on Craigslist, Postlets and other free real estate sites, and consider entering the blog and social networking arena. Other useful tips include matching their e-mail addresses and Web URLs, and adding their Web site address to their e-mail signatures.

RENT OR BUY?

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:32:30 -0800

Are your potential homebuyers on the fence? Smart Money's Web site allows them to calculate in dollars and cents whether it's beneficial to rent or buy. An online worksheet estimates how much value will be found in either scenario. Even if it's smarter for a customer to rent now and buy later, they're bound to remember you and pass along your good name when friends or family ask for references. Check it out at: http://www.smartmoney.com/home/buying

2008 New Year’s Message

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 14:42:36 -0800

New Year is the time to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the coming year. It is the time to forget and get past memories that are no longer useful or worth pondering upon. It is the time for new beginnings and new starts in life. New Year has a message for each one of us. One should let go of the past that has bad memories and accept what has happened, has happened for some reason. Instead of clinging onto your past and things that have gone, it is better to let go.

There is an old saying that goes, "Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened". This essentially means that there is no use crying over spilt milk. You cannot turn back time and do things that would benefit you. Accept that some days you are the pigeon and some days you are the statue. New year is the time of new beginnings. It is time to start afresh and do things that would make someone else smile. Make a pledge to make at least one person happy. You will see the difference it can make in both your lives. The essential message of New Year is let go off the past and embrace life as it comes to you. You will be happier and merrier that way.

Happy New Year everyone - Steven Bastian (561-542-1359)

Home sales: Bad to worse, yet turning around?

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 15:11:23 -0800

Home sales slowed to a crawl in 2007; though some areas of Florida fared better. It's a single story with multiple causes - the perfect storm. News stories in 2007 have, independently, pinned the blame on real estate investors with more money than common sense; mortgage brokers and banks willing to give a homebuyer more money than he can possibly pay back; and homebuyers who did not the time to read the mortgage terms associated with the biggest financial deal of their life.

Florida, along with a handful of other states, had the dubious honor of being at the epicenter of the home sales slowdown. In the October monthly sales report from the Florida Association of Realtors, the year-over-year number of home sales fell 29 percent, though price declines were more modest at 8 percent. While much of the mainstream media focuses on the drop, however, the figures more accurately reflect how out-of-control the real estate market was during the now-past boom years. Currently, Florida home sales compare favorably to five years ago. And over a five-year period, Florida housing prices have actually risen more than any other state except Hawaii, even with the recent price declines - up 96.23 percent in Florida, according to OFHEO, the government agency that tracks home price changes.

As the year ends, buyers have a bountiful inventory to choose from and demand exists. Many buyers fear, however, that prices will drop a bit more, making a current purchase ill-advised if they can wait it out. While that stance comes more from anxiety than actual fact, the market will turn - slowly, doggedly, yet evenly - barring any new housing-related crises, such as the mortgage meltdown that peaked in August.

Property insurance: Improving but not there yet

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 15:09:57 -0800

One year ago, property insurance topped FAR's list of real estate stories for the year, but things have improved - slightly. In January, a special session of the Florida Legislature boosted the state's reinsurance fund, lowering risk for insurers. But savings were less than promised, so the state started carrying a bigger stick when insurers requested rate adjustments. Add to the mix a legislative change in the state's insurer, Citizen's Property Insurance Corp., that froze rates and expanded coverage, and Florida property owners now have a few more affordable choices.

A key component of the ongoing battle, however, cannot be legislated or changed. While the state has experienced two years without having a hurricane that hit land, another blow will again send insurers packing even though they enjoyed highly profitable years. Lawmakers and regulators could still tinker with the rules to encourage greater savings, even as the big insurers continue to limit their risk, notably in coastal areas.

PROPERTY TAX AMENDMENT

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 17:22:58 -0800

"Yes on 1-Save our Homes NOW," the FAR-supported campaign that advocates passage of the property tax amendment going before voters in January, recently unveiled a new Web commercial highlighting Orlando residents Keith and Elizabeth Markowitz. The Markowitzes have a growing family and need a bigger home; and portability, according to Keith, will "help us afford more house. It's going to help us attain our dream." According to Gov. Charlie Crist, "Property owners are overwhelmed by their taxes, and families like the Markowitzes deserve a break." To view the commercial, go to: http://www.yeson1florida.com

FOREIGNERS EYE FLORIDA

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 17:59:39 -0800

Foreign investors increasingly are interested in purchasing vacation homes in Florida and elsewhere in the Southeast, according to Tampa-based Fast Home Auction Inc. The company - which alerts investors to online auctions of foreclosed homes via weekly e-mail - says Belgium, Britain, Canada, France and Germany have the most interested investors. According to Fast Home Auction CEO Jim Case, REO asset managers might find the weak dollar to be "a blessing."

Tax tips for real estate developers and investors

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 15:21:35 -0800

As 2007 comes to an end and planning for 2008 begins, real estate developers and investors should consider some tax tips that could save money for companies in the long run:

1. Properly account for lease income. You may be accounting for your lease income for tax purposes based on the cash received or on the terms of the lease agreement. However, a Code section specifically addressing leases may require the income to be accounted for differently.

2. Determine if you are a dealer or an investor. Do you know your status as either a dealer or an investor for tax purposes? Proper planning up front will ensure the desired treatment upon disposition of the property.

3. Allocate land cost to your benefit. To defer income upon the sale of parcels from a tract of land purchased, proper allocation of the cost among the various parcels must be done. The IRS requires that the cost be "equitably apportioned." But how? There are several methods available that should be considered when allocating cost.

4. Color your building green. Including solar and other alternative energy property in a new building can generate tax credits. A new owner can deduct up to $1.80 per square foot of the cost of an energy efficient commercial building instead of depreciating it over 39 years.

5. Take full advantage of depreciation. Has your company recently undertaken new construction projects, expansions or renovations? Substantial long-term savings could result from a cost segregation study, which categorizes your assets into the appropriate and most tax-advantaged depreciable lives.

To learn how these tax tips may apply to your real estate business, please contact your tax advisor.

GLOBAL REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK STRONG

Steven Bastian (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 15:09:13 -0800

London-base global investment company LaSalle Investment Management told clients that the outlook for global real estate is strong, despite recent turbulence in the U.S. market and debt markets in general. LaSalle expects strong returns from Europe and the Asia-Pacific region in 2008 as demand outstrips the supply of housing and rentals, and drives up prices. In the U.S., LaSalle plans to invest more money in health care facilities, senior housing and student housing. But Jacques Gordon, global head of research and strategy, said the remainder of the U.S. market "should return to normalcy in 2008."