Change is Good

We would like to announce Miamism Team's new home - Majestic Properties.

It was time for a change, a change that would compliment not only our business and marketing style, but a change that would benefit each one of our clients individually.

Coldwell Banker was good to us and we are the first to admit that, it offered a strong corporate backing that Rick and I were used to with our prior corporate lives as an architect and accountant, but there were also limitations and we had to think past our personal comfort and look into the future of our business as well as the type of service we offer our clients. (in other words.....the decision was by NO means easy).

Because Miami Real estate has changed, so has the way we conduct business in a way that benefits you, our client, even in a down market. We have learned that this business is not so much about us, but about you. We still hit the streets the same way as before, but we also blog and are very active in the social networking aspect of the Internet. We have had to think outside the box and use the tools before us in way no one else has, putting us at the forefront of the industry. (I know, I know....tooting my own horn is not polite). Majestic Properties will not only support our new methods, but welcomes them and will help us customize marketing strategies one client at a time and expose ourselves to every new marketing medium available to be able to offer better service.

We found a company that will compliment our style. Majestic Properties is a respected full-service real estate organization that focuses on providing the highest level of service by employing cutting edge resources. Talk about a match made in heaven!

They have an amazing reputation in South Florida, with beautiful high design offices in the Design District and Miami Beach; and in 2006, INC 500 Magazine ranked the company fastest growing, privately held, full-service real estate company in the United States.

Majestic Properties successfully identifies industry trends in residential and commercial markets, incorporates cutting-edge technological tools, hires passionate and dedicated agents and staff and plays a prominent philanthropic role in the community. It boasts an internal Advertising and PR agency, a one-stop marketing shop for Majestic agents and clients. Additionally, Majestic helps customers from all over the world with financing and mortgage, and then there's an interior design team and furniture showroom. From real estate to marketing to financing to design, Majestic Properties offers it all.

We also have a new Miamism Team member! Karen Alvarez, who, as our buyer's agent, will compliment our growing business and help us provide even better service. Karen is known in the industry for her superior business ethics and outstanding customer service.

Making a change is never easy. It was especially difficult for us because we did not want our customers to be affected in any way. We are looking forward to using all the positive energy we are getting from to help our business expand to the next level.

Insider's Guide to great Hotel Deals for Florida Residents

Did you know that as a Florida resident you can get incredible hotel deals this Summer? I felt like a kid in a candy store while reading Jane Wooldridge's article in The Miami Herald: Why go far? 20 fabulous sleeps in our backyard.

Between coordinating the kids' Summer Camps, planning our annual Summer trip to Bimini and working really odd schedules, a weekend getaway to one of our very seldom visited beaches with spa treatments and major pampering sounds perfect.

Jane tells us,

Because big hotels have hundreds of rooms to fill, they slash rates dramatically -- this year as much as 40 to 75 percent. The result: That room at a resort with spa, multiple pools, beachfront locations and children's programs may cost only $20-$40 more than staying at a smaller hotel that's further from the sea and offers only a pool or hot tub.

And it's not just the rate that matters. Some resorts are sweetening the deal with gas rebates, food-and-beverage credits, late check-out times, spa discounts and stay-two-nights, get-one-free deals. Lodgings that once required a two-night stay on weekends are booking Saturday-night visits, so you can cadge a weekend away with only a one-night stand.

Here's the magic list - and let's thank Jane for doing the research.

Looking for Luxury?

• REGENT BAL HARBOUR: Summer rates from $375 -- about half the high-season tariff. 305-455- 5400; Valet parking, $32 per day.

• RITZ-CARLTON PALM BEACH: The hotel offers several good packages -- and rates go down in August. The Family Reconnect package includes a room for four people, breakfast daily for four, two passes to the children's programs, valet parking and a $50 credit good in the hotel restaurants, from $309 per night, Aug. 6-Oct. 1. The Summer Escape package offers a third night free plus $50 resort credit starting at $229 through Oct. 1. 561-533- 6000; Parking $25 per day.

• FISHER ISLAND: Summer rates drop from the astronomical -- $700 and up -- to a mere splurge starting at $249. 305-535-6076. Resort fees of $64.20 per day include the ferry pass.

• PILLARS, FORT LAUDERDALE: Rates from $185; stay two midweek nights this summer and get a $50 credit toward meals or drinks. 954-467-9639. Free parking.

Like Historic Charm?

• THE BREAKERS: Daily rates start at $369 through July 30 and drop to $299 Aug. 1-Sept. 30; the longer you stay, the lower the rate; 561-655-6611 or 888-BREAKERS. Parking $20 per day.

• BOCA RESORT & CLUB: Florida resident deals start at $129 per room through October; if you need more space, a two-bedroom bungalow starts at $199. Parking is included; 888-491-2622.

• THE COLONY, DELRAY BEACH: Rooms from $120; 561-276-4123. Free parking.

Resorts

• FAIRMONT TURNBERRY ISLE, AVENTURA: Florida resident rate of $289 includes valet parking, daily breakfast buffet, a $50 resort credit and shuttle to the beach club; available dates vary. Regular summer rates start at $179 per night; 305-932-6200. Resort fees $13.56 per day.

• WESTIN DIPLOMAT, HALLANDALE BEACH: Florida resident rates start at $179; 954-602- 6000. Self park $17, valet $20.

• LAGO MAR, FORT LAUDERDALE: Summer rates from $180; children 12 and under eat free through Sept. 30, holidays excluded; 800-LAGOMAR. Free parking.

Beach in Style

• GANSEVOORT SOUTH: Summer rates for Florida residents start at $250 and run through Oct. 1; 305-604-1000. Parking $38 per day.

• HOTEL DE SOLEIL, MIAMI BEACH: Rooms from $295; 305-672-4554. Parking $32 per day.

• SADIGO COURT, MIAMI BEACH: A one-bedroom suite with kitchen goes for $145 this summer and includes continental breakfast; 305-672-9135. Parking cards are sold here for $10 per 24 hours.

• ATLANTIC: Summer rates start at $199 -- if you can snag one -- and the hotel has a fourth-night-free program this season. 954-567-8020. Parking $28 per day.

"The" Urban getaway

• MANDARIN ORIENTAL, MIAMI: Florida residents pay $269 midweek, $289 weekends; this Fantastic Florida Escape package includes daily breakfast for two, complimentary valet parking and 10 to 20 percent off some spa treatments, through Sept. 30. 305-913- 8288. Parking $32 per day.

• FOUR SEASONS, MIAMI: Stay three nights and pay $225 per night; stay two nights and pay $250. Parking $28-$33 per day.

• FORT LAUDERDALE GRANDE: Summer rates start at $99; 954-463- 4000. Parking $19-$23.

On the Beach

• COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT MIAMI BEACH: Rates start at $125 per night; the breakfast buffet costs $9.95 per person; ask about packages. 305-538-3373. Parking $25 per day.

• WRIGHT BY THE SEA, DELRAY BEACH: Studios from $125 through Oct. 31; free parking. 561-278- 3355 or 877-234-3355.

Vegas Attitude??

• SEMINOLE HARDROCK: Most nights, rooms run $239 (though a few $139 and $179 rates do pop up); 866-502- 7529. Parking $7-$12.
• THE MICCOSUKEE RESORT: in west Dade has a better deal: $89 per night for Florida residents through Aug. 31; 877-242-6464. Free self parking, $3 for valet service.

Have you Poked anyone lately?

I don't share personal break-throughs here anymore but Moni and John encouraged me to come out here and tell you. Here's the twitter proof (It's THEIR fault)!

So what's the news?

I found an old lost cousin from Venezuela that I have not spoken to in over 20 years through facebook!!

It all started last week when I told my sister that some grade school friends from Venezuela had found me. My sister is clueless about technology and much less social networking, so she signed up and found a bunch of people and even convinced my mom (anti-computer queen) to join. Missy Caulk even joined in the fun and became one of my mom's facebook friends.

Today I get an e-mail notifiying me that my cousin wants to become "friends". I had lost total contact with him and can't believe we were writing back and forth learning about our lives.

Social Networks - beyond fun (or not)

So here's the scoop - I use Twitter, Facebook, linkedIn....and all the other social networks for business. I have met a lot of local business owners, I have learned about new products and new blogs that I would not have ever found on my own. I don't waste a lot of time there and check it ocassionally to see what's new, but the source of information is priceless......and to think that now it has also added to my personal life is unbelievable!

**on a side note - before this week, the most enjoyable part of facebook was being poked by Jeff Turner** (I just HAD to add that!

Go ahead and give it a try

My Venezuelan cousin came back to life through Facebook, I have even become friends with a second cousin from The UK. I can now have regular conversations with my best friend from grade school who lives in Spain. Talk about the Global Power of Social Networking!!

Here's some great articles about social networking in the rain:

• John Novak and Facebook
  

• Cheryl Johnson decides to give it a second chance

• Pat Kitano gives us a guide

• Jeff Turner convinces TLW

• Rich Jacobson explains why

3301 NE 1st Avenue, unit 2615 - Miami, Florida 33137 - Midtown Miami **improved price**

We wanted to share a Miami real estate deal for sale now in 4 Midtown, one of Midtown Miami's new highrise buildings. This tower received its certificate of occupancy in February 2008 and people are already moving in and making this fabulous building their home.

How do we define a Miami Condo Deal?

In our opinion, a deal is when you can purchase a property for a lot less than similar properties in the same building. In the case of a high-rise like 4 Midtown, we look at the same line of units and see what these are priced at.

A little history on the project

4 Midtown was designed by John R. Nichols of Nichols Brosch Sandoval & Associates, Inc. architects and planners, based in Coral Gables, Florida - and its concept is:

Midtown's urban design is reminiscent of New York SoHo district with a Miami Twist. The pool deck is a true urban oasis nestled seven stories high. The architecture with it's wide expansive opening that emphasizes the panoramic views of Downtown and Biscayne Bay. With a modern minimalist lobby, and custom finishes that pay attention to detail.

Details about this Miami-Condo Deal

3301 NE 1st Avenue, unit 2615 - Miami, Florida 33137

Priced at $425,000 $400,000

Unbelievable bay and city views from this 26th floor new, and never lived in Midtown 4 condo. Full-amenity building just South of Miami's Design District, centrally located close to Miami Beach, Downtown Miami and both airports. Two bedroom, two bathroom condo with split bedroom plan, high ceilings, Italian kitchen, porcelain tile floors and wrap around balcony overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Similar units in the same line are priced as follows:

• Unit number 1515 $490,000
• Unit number 1715 $500,000
• Unit number 1815 $505,000
• Unit number 2015 $515,000
• Unit number 2215 $525,000
• Unit number 2315 $530,000
• Unit number 2715 $545,000
• Unit number 2918 $550,000

Unit 2615 is being sold for $45,000 under pre-construction price, and although the seller is selling for less than he paid, this sale is not contingent on lender approval.

Unit Features

• Floor-to-ceiling impact-resistant glass windows
• Generous private terraces
• Italian kitchens with stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry and stone counter tops
• High-end energy-efficient appliance package
• Nine foot high exposed concrete ceilings
• Master baths with ceramic tile flooring and modern fixtures
• Spacious walk-in closets
• Pre-wired for electric, cable, high-speed Internet
• 1,371 square feet with 270 sq.ft. balcony
• 2 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms
• Built in 2008

Building Amenities

• Modern minimalistic Lobby
• Custom finishes
• Rooftop swimming pool with Downtown and Bay views
• Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room
• State-of-the-art fitness center overlooking the pool
• Out-door gathering spaces
• High speed elevators
• Covered parking
• Concierge
• Valet
• Private storage facilities
• Ground-level retail 24-hour security

Marina Blue - Miami Luxury Condo

Even for experienced Miami Realtors, visiting new condos is always exciting.  I for one love to check out the finishes and the preliminary design flaws.  Then I tear them apart with my clients, from finish choices to distribution problems.

This week I had the pleasure of visiting Marina Blue, designed by none other than Arquitectonica.  Located at 888 Biscayne Boulevard, in what Miami Realtors refer to as ˜the gridlock, because it is right across from the American Airlines Arena, Bayside Marketplace, The Center for Performing Arts, the new Museum Park, and the exit to I-395 that takes you to Miami Beach.  I have to admit that the traffic is always a little intense, but what else do you expect for downtown Miami?

I figure if you dont want the action, excitement and traffic, this may not be the building for you.  On a positive note, you do have the People-Mover right behind the building that takes you through downtown Miami and possibly to the talked about Wholefood Market Place that is rumored to be built nearby.  The concept of this grouping of buildings which include:

The Marquis, Ten Museum Park, 900 Biscayne and Marina Blue

Is Green Urbanism - walkable communities close to everything, close to the action and with good public transportation.

I admit I was impressed with the finishes and the scale of the spaces.  The lobby was austere and grand, the hallways were not finished, doors not painted (but we expect that from a newly finished building) and the common areas almost completed.  The skybeach, although a sexy concept, in my opinion will not last long. (the wind is always powerful and to keep the sand off the interior common areas is going to be tough) - I hope they prove me wrong.

Heres some pictures of the pool areas and their views:

We saw a one bedroom unit on the 5th floor and even that one had an amazing view:

The kitchen finishes were not impressive and the choice of granite not my favorite, but the master bath was great and left nothing to be desired (with marble floor and counters, double raised sinks with designer faucets, bidet, and huge shower called a ˜wet room).

Lastly, here’s a picture of the lobby (I have to tell you that the concierge was a little nervous to be included in the photo). The use of stone, exposed concrete, wood and light was absolutely perfect!! (there are some unfinished planter looking thingies that don’t need to be there, I’ll see what they turn into).

Here are the developer specs for the building:

MarinaBlue is a spectacular 60-story curvilinear landmark featuring spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floorplans, including gorgeous penthouses and lofts¦ all complemented by world-class amenities, including the unique and extraordinary SkyBeach.

Amenities and Services:

• Beautiful reception lobby with custom-made furnishings
• Spectacular views from every unit, with full width balconies, and floor-to-ceiling glass for unobstructed views
• Concierge and valet services
• Private storage facilities
• Semi-private high speed elevators
• Private Cyber Center, a separate conference and communications facility with state-of-the-art business equipment and small meeting capability

SkyBeach Features:

• Stunning pool looking over Biscayne Bay
• Lap pool, beach volleyball, barbecue
• Lush tropical garden, plunge pool
• Indoor-Outdoor Skylounge and party room with bay views
• Fully-equipped Game Room, fitness and cardio center
• Yoga-Aerobics studio with lofted ceiling and glass-wall view over Biscayne Bay

Residence Features:

• 9 high ceiling with smooth finish, 10 high in the upper floors, 18 high in the lofts
• Pre-wired for ceiling fans and light fixtures
• Pre-wired for cable television and phones in bedrooms and living areas
• Pre-wired for high-speed data
• Energy-saving, impact resistant glass
• Ventilated closet shelving system
• High-efficiency heating and air-conditioning system
• Fire sprinklers and smoke detectors
• Solid core entry door

Custom Kitchen and Bath Features:

• The elegant kitchens are appointed in a style that matches the beauty of the building and features granite counters, European-style cabinets, stainless steel sink and full capacity washer and dryer
• Designer appliances
• The fantastic Master Bath is a retreat within your home in the sky, and features marble floor, double sink vanity with marble top and raised sinks with designer fixtures
• Complementing your Master Bath retreat is a resort-style ˜Wet Room with shower and bathtub enclosed in glass

How to report Mortgage Fraud in Miami-Dade County

According to the FBI, Florida is amongst the top 10 mortgage fraud states in the United States. It is our duty to report it and put a stop to it. Mortgage Fraud is a felony and playing the ignorant role is no longer acceptable. We hear nightmares about Miami Real Estate, and some people don't report it because they don't know how.

What is Mortgage Fraud?

As per the FBI:

"Mortgage Fraud is defined as the intentional misstatement, misrepresentation, or omission by an applicant or other interested parties, relied on by a lender or underwriter to provide funding for, to purchase, or to insure a mortgage loan"

(please read the link to the FBI website because it is informative and educational)

How do you report Mortgage Fraud in Miami-Dade County?

The Office of the Mayor has formed a Mortgage Fraud Task Force whose mission is to reduce mortgage fraud and prevent victimization of individuals and businesses.

You can fill-out THIS FORM, and it will be routed to the Miami-Dade Police Department, Economic Crimes Division and either handled directly or forwarded to the proper law enforcement department on a case by case basis.

Watch the video with Mayor Carlos Alvarez

[help] Tornado Victims

Help Tornado victims - Agent Genius, together with Bloodhound Blog and Jay Thompson have started fundraising efforts for those affected by the tornadoes this past week.

"This week, thousands of people lost their homes and over 54 lost their lives. The destruction is devastating and over five states have a long road ahead in rebuilding after these massive destruction".

Fundraising efforts are about showing our fellow neighbors that we care, please help spread the word and know that any little bit helps - no amount is too small.

You can also go straight into the Red Cross website and donate there. Let's help these people pull their life back together.

**you can pick up buttons or banners at the links above to help the victims**

Looking for loan originators and mortgage brokers that speak Spanish

I've been writing blog posts in Spanish because it is an untapped market, anyone that speaks another language should be taking full advantage. 

With that in mind, I was recently contacted by a gentleman that needs mortgage information in Spanish.  To think that I live in Miami and it hasn't been an easy task is beyond me.  After speaking to Brian Brady, he came up with the genius idea of asking for help via blog.

The idea is to be able to create a network of Spanish speaking professionals in the real estate industry that we could resort to.  I also created a group here in Active Rain for those that want to join.

Red de profesionales de bienes raices

If you do speak Spanish, please follow this link to my Miamism.com blog where I give specifics of what we are looking for. 

**please note that the link will take you to another website outside of Active Rain** 

The King Cole Condo - Miami Beach Luxury Condo with dock

There are some older buildings in Miami Beach that make a statement, The King Cole is one of them. Built in 1963, it represents the MiMo style (Miami Modern) because of its concave shape where the views from the waterfront units are framed beautifully.

There are a lot of people that argue that the building was designed by Morris Lapidus, because its shape resembles Lapidus' Fontainebleau, but it wasn't. I am still doing some research to find out who the original architect is - if anyone reading this article knows, please feel free to jump right in and let me know. I even asked known architectural critic, Beth Dunlop and she confirmed The King Cole was not designed by Morris Lapidus.

Now to the details. The King Cole Condo has an incredible marina and you can see from this aerial that it accommodates big boats. The slips are privately owned, some are for sale and can dock up to 65 foot vessels. It is a full amenity building with:

• heated pool
• 24-hour valet-parking
• gym overlooking the water
• children's playroom
• solarium
• saunas
• marina
• doorman security

It is located on the Southeast corner of Normandy Island in Miami Beach at 900 Bay Drive.

This Luxury condominium has been going through major renovations including a face-lift where all the balcony railings were changed to hurricane impact glass. The Lower Lobby, where most building amenities are housed, is also going renovations including finishes. In a few months, the building will be restored to its original grandeur.

Shores Pediatrics and Dr. Laura Fernandez-Ortiz - coming to Miami Shores

A lot of people relocating to Miami, especially Miami Shores, always ask me if I can recommend a pediatrician.  Obviously, choosing a doctor is always very personal but having a doctor that is close by and responds quickly to emergencies is one of the most important factors when dealing with sick kids.

So here is my plug for an awesome Miami pediatrician and friend. Shores Pediatrics is run by Dr. Laura Fernandez-Ortiz who not only has children of her own, but is an active Miami Shores resident.  You will see her at all the community events from the Christmas Lighting ceremony to Unity Day.

Dr. Laura gives her medical practice that personal touch that so many other doctors are loosing because all they think about is money.  She will take her time with your children and discuss preventive medicine.  She has trained under the best doctors and I trust her with my own without even blinking an eye.  You can also tell a lot about the doctor by the staff they choose and you can rest assured that at Shores Pediatrics you will experience the best care possible (I'm not exaggerating), from the nursing staff to the receptionist, they know how to deal with patients and will learn your name as well as your kids' in no time.

Her practice is temporarily located in Hollywood at 4801 Hollywood Boulevard -(which is 15 to 20 minutes away from Miami Shores).

The good news is that Shores Pediatrics will move to their permanent location in Miami Shores on November of 2008.   The address will be 209 NE 95th Street, Miami Shores, FL 33138.

You can reach Shores Pediatrics and Dr. Laura Fernandez-Ortiz at (954) 987-8740 and visit her website at www.ShoresPediatrics.com