Sarasota Florida Real Estate Flat Fee MLS Listings FSBO

$7,500 Tax Credit for First-Time HomeBuyers! Time to Commit Young Buyers..

2008-08-04T22:45:58Z

First-time homebuyers.. When is the best time to purchase?? When is the real estate market going to be groomed to make the perfect purchase?? First of all, timing the market is tough in any investment and may keep you on the fence for just long enough to miss the perfect wave of opportunity.. Our real estate market is setting up to rebound strongly (debatable when that rebound will occur..), but the Federal Government is stepping in and encouraging you to move forward and commit to buying a home.. Why are they doing this? The Economy is slow and with a pool of first time homebuyers waiting on the sidelines for the market to come back, the Feds are trying to Speed this process up & get you back in the buying circuit..

Below are the details and the article I've received from the Sarasota Realtors Organization covering the details of this new Bill..

WASHINGTON - Aug. 1, 2008 - A provision of the recently-passed federal housing recovery bill gives first-time buyers an interest-free loan of up to $7,500 in the form of an income tax credit.

The credit equals 10 percent of a home's cost up to $7,500, and applies to any single-family residence (including condos and co-ops) to be used as a buyer's principal residence.

First-time homebuyers, defined as those who have not owned a home for at least three years, will claim the tax credit the first year they file federal taxes and receive the money as a reduction of their federal tax liability. The money must be repaid at the rate of 6.67 percent of the total credit each year for 15 years, essentially making it an interest-free loan. If a home is sold before the 15-year pay-off, the balance of the credit is recaptured at resale.

The credit was included in the new law as a way to entice first-time buyers to get off the fence and commit to a purchase.

Other provisions:

· Income limits: Full credit goes to individuals making $75,000 per year or less ($150,000 for couples). The credit amount phases out for higher incomes.

• Alternative Minimum Tax: Credit can be used against the AMT and the credit will not throw any individual into AMT territory.

· Effective dates: The new law is retroactive back to April 9, 2008. It terminates on June 30, 2009.

Justin Shirley
CEO/Founder
Shirley International Realty Inc.
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM
941-448-4872

Property Insurance Tax Credit for Florida Coastal Homeowners! Nice..

2008-08-04T22:42:27Z

High property insurance premiums are weighing the pocket books of my clients & its so severe in some areas that necessities such as food spending has to be re-evaluated.. The root of our property insurance tax burdens stem from hurricane damage and liabilities of owning property on the Gulf Coast.. Finally, a little relief is on the way.. The Federal Government is extending a tax credit to Coastal homeowners who have been severly affected by rising Property Insurance Premiums.. Below is an article I'm passing along to you from the Sarasota Board of Realtors.. Along with The Sarasota Deed, you are always "In the Know"..

WASHINGTON - Aug. 1, 2008 - Coastal residents of states hard-hit by hurricanes - including Mississippi, Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina and Texas - would benefit from proposed tax credits for high insurance premiums and storm mitigation improvements.

Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., thwarted in an effort earlier this year to expand the federal flood insurance program, is taking a new tack on insurance relief for coastal residents in a bill he is introducing Friday.

"I think of this as a short-term focused solution to provide immediate assistance to people in coastal areas," said Wicker in an exclusive interview with McClatchy Newspapers.

The bill would give residents affected by hurricanes in 2004, 2005 or 2006, a one-time tax credit up to $5,000 if their insurance premium increased 50 percent over a three-year period. It would also create a permanent tax credit of up to $5,000 per year for residents who make hurricane mitigation improvements to their homes. The bill is being co-sponsored by Sens. Thad Cochran, R-Miss., Mel Martinez, R-Fla., and David Vitter, R-La.

"This is a way of providing some sort of assistance to taxpayers," said Wicker. "We shouldn't make them wait another year." Mississippi coastal insurance rates, for example, have jumped 80 percent after Hurricane Katrina.

Under Wicker's plan, individuals would be eligible to receive a one-time tax credit up to $5,000 for an amount equal to 50 percent of the increase of their insurance premiums over three years. For example, if a resident paid $1,000 a year for homeowners' insurance in 2005 and $5,000 in 2008, that person could claim a tax credit of 50 percent of the $4,000 increase.

Coastal resident along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean would also be eligible for a proposed permanent tax credit up to $5,000. Homeowners could claim 25 percent of the cost of hurricane mitigation improvements, such as elevating a structure or reinforcing it.

Rep. Gene Taylor, D-Miss., who lost his home in Katrina, has argued that the inability of Coast residents and businesses to secure insurance for wind as well as water damage has hurt rebuilding. His bill to expand the federal flood insurance program to include wind coverage passed the House but met considerable resistance in the Senate. Wicker proposed the wind amendment to the flood insurance authorization bill but it was soundly defeated 74-19.

Wicker said in the interview that he felt he could not overcome the objections of Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Chris Dodd, D-Conn., to expanding the federal program but that he had raised awareness of the need for insurance relief.

"It looks like a permanent type of solution will not be approved this year," said Wicker. "I think the chances are better for this approach."

Take advantage of this policy and apply for the credit if you are one of the unfortunate homeowners burdened by Sky Rocketing Insurance Premiums & hurricane damage..

Justin Shirley
CEO/Founder
Shirley International Realty Inc.
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM
941-448-4872

Flat Fee MLS Listing Service for Florida FSBO's.. Offices in Sarasota & St. Petersburg, Florida

2008-08-03T18:27:45Z

Shirley International Realty Inc.'s Flat Fee MLS Listing Service has become such an unparalleled selling niche in our real estate market.. Our real estate company has joined the Mid-Florida MLS which includes 13 Realtor Assocations and over 35,000 Realtors! This means that any home, condo, land, or property you're looking to sale from Orlando to Port Charlotte will be seen by all Florida Real Estate Licensed Realtors/Appraisers, & Mortgage Brokers constanlty scowering the MLS.. from Orlando to Port Charlotte.. Even in this slow market, we're listing more homes than ever because local sellers are seeing the value in being promoted on the Multiple Listing Service.. Even national renowned builders such as KB Homes, & local powerhouse names like Capstone Construction, have teamed-up with our office to have their inventory homes listed through our Flat Fee MLS Service.. Our biggest testimony for the success of our Flat Fee Programs are the Sellers & Builders that are now outsourcing their listing inventory to us.. $199 will get your home listed on the local MLS & Realtor.com for local Realtors & National/International Buyers to come preview your home..

I've expanded my Flat Fee MLS Listing Service beyond Florida Boundaries and reach out now to ANY seller around the US Looking for MLS Coverage.. Scanning over my inventory of listing from the past 8 weeks, I'm seeing that Shirley International Realty Inc. has listed 5 homes in Maine, 4 in New Hampshire, 4 Homes in New York, 6 Homes in Massachusetts & a handful of properties in states such as Maryland, Virginia, Minnesota, & New Jersey. Our Flat Fee Listing of Flat Fee Network Brokers is expanding everyday and we're helping promote sellers listings in every corner of America! Our focus is centered around maximizing the promotion of your property, while still saving you the most money.. This is called Grade-A Value & its something we take great pride in offering..

If you, or anyone you know is looking to sell a home and isn't interested in paying a Realtor 6% to do so, please call Justin Shirley, CEO of Shirley International Realty, to talk about how to get your home the most expansive promotions for a Minimal Flat Fee/Rate.. I'm always "sweetening" the promotional marketing our Real Estate Company offers for your home, & specialize in Web Marketing.. The MLS, or Multiple Listing Service, is the foundation that you SHOULD HAVE in selling your home in any market.. Realtors are waiting for your home to hit the MLS so they can bring their most urgent buyers to you & close a sell.. You No Longer have to pay 6-7% for this service.. We offer Full Service Packages for any seller looking for assistance in scheduling showings for your property, negotiating contracts, over-the-top marketing, & access to our full support staff.. If you're just looking for the most valueable MLS listing Package, talk to me about listing your home on the MLS for $199 (& this listing stays active until the property sells, or until you request it be terminated..)..

We're here to provide quality listing services and can offer this package anywhere in the State of Florida.. Located outside the State?? We'll get any property isted from Seattle, to New York, & San Diego to Key West! We're constantly adapting to Real Estate & Economic Conditions to give you more Marketing Bang for Your Selling Buck!!! Innovation will continue to take place in Shirley International Realty Inc.'s offices..

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty Inc.
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM
941-448-4872

Downtown Sarasota, Florida Condo! Wood Flooring & Bay Views * $364,900

2008-07-15T15:34:50Z

2 Bedroom Corner-Unit on 10th Floor @ the Renaissance Condo's Lcoated @ 750 North Tamiami Trail Across From the Van Wezel Auditorium*Steps to Beautiful Beaches, Downtown, & St. Armands Circle! Great Water & City Views From all Rooms!*Brazilian Cherry Floors, & 2 Parking Spaces in Parking Ramp*This Newer & Beautiful Building has a Fitness Center, Pool, Media Room, Club Room, Conceriege, & Many other Amenities*New Publix Building Being Built just 1 Block Away! Open Floor Plan with Bay & City Views! Classy & Elegant Describes this Renaissance Gem

Virtual Tour: http://wcf.thevtpros.com/tours/1682

These are the kind of Flat Fee MLS Listings I'm bringing to the market.. This seller can't afford to offer pay a listing commission becuase the property is so discounted on MLS.. He's willing to a Realtor, representing the buyer, a commission, but isn't interested in a listing commission.. Without my Flat Fee MLS Listing, Realtors wouldn't have the opportunity to take there clients to this property for a discounted purchase, & the seller wouldn't have the traffic coming in from MLS Listing Exposure.. Total Win/Win!This seller is a perfect candidate for a Flat Fee MLS Listing, and I even offered a Virtual Tour as assistance to "Turn the Volume Up" on his marketing plan.. This seller is motivated, and would love to sell this condo.. The Virtual Tour will provide you with a Gallery of Pictures showing the Upgrades and Bay/City Views from the unit, as well as the Amenities in the Complex..

For Showings and More Information on this Downtown Condo, Contact Larry Face @ 941-587-7395

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Sarasota Luxury Home Priced to Sell! 3 Bedroom/2 Bath: $450,000!

2008-07-15T15:24:16Z

Glamorous Bach Model Offers Grand Circular Entry, Gorgeous Lake Views, Soaring 12-Ft. Ceilings, & Huge Master Suite with Sitting Area*Property Is In Pristine Condition & Shows As If It Were New with Neutral Subtle Decor*Upgraded 18x18 Tile & Tall Wood Cabinets*Wall Sliders Open to Expansive Lake Views*A Rare Opportunity At This Price*For the Discriminating Buyer Looking For Spacious Elegant Home

Contact Justin Shirley w/ Shirley International Realty Inc. for Showings and More Information
941-448-4872

Justin Shirley
941-448-4872
CEO
Shirley International Realty
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Bradenton Discount Real Estate in Heritage Habour! 2006 Model-Home on Water/Golf Lot $275,000

2008-07-15T15:21:37Z

LENNAR/ASCOT MODEL HOME PRICE TO SELL QUICKLY! MOTIVATED SELLER! 1996 Square-Feet; 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath*Located on the Most Private, Corner, Lakefront/Golf Course Lot in the Entire Community. Located directly across from Community Pool, Volleyball Court, & Recreational Facilities. Home Includes: Upgraded Corian Countertops in Kitchen, Marble Vanity Tops in Bathroom, Upgraded Tile Throughout, Complete Appliance Package, Spacious Lanai With Lake & Sunset Views. Home Is Immaculate! Bring Offers, Easy to Show! MOTIVATED SELLER.. Property can be rented as well for $1,450/month on an Annual Lease..

For Showings and More Information Contact me @ 941-448-4872, or justin@thesarasotadeed.com

Justin Shirley
941-448-4872
CEO
Shirley International Realty
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Sarasota Realtor Joins MidFlorida Multiple Listing Service! More Exposure For My Listings!

2008-07-12T23:30:37Z

My Listings are now exposed in front of 35,000 Realtors from Orlando to Port Charlotte.. Mid-Florida MLS, corporate headerquarters in Orlando, is a Giant Multiple Listing Service Website that has now replaced our local Sarasota MLS System.. Members of the new System are, Manatee, Tampa, Hillsboro, Greater Tampa, Sarasota, Venice, Port Charlotte, Englewood, & Port Charlotte, among other smaller noteworthy assocations.. 13 Total Assocations make up this new Multiple Listing Service, so over 35,000 Realtors have Confidential Previewing Capabilities to all of my Listings.. This is great News for My Flat Fee & Full-Service Sellers.. Read on about Sarasota's new membership to Mid-Florida MLS (Multiple Listing Service..)

In 1995, six Central Florida REALTOR® Associations pooled their resources and joined forces to form the Mid-Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service. By doing so, they unified the Central Florida real estate market and made it easier for REALTORS® from across the service area to cooperate with one another. Four years later, the West Volusia Association of REALTORS® joined MFRMLS, and in 2003 the Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS® came on board. Now, five Southwest Florida Associations have joined MFRMLS, making our MLS one of the largest and strongest multiple listing services in the country.

MFRMLS is a member-run organization, owned entirely by our shareholder member Associations. Each Association has representatives that WHO serve on the Board of Directors. The number of representatives from your Association is proportional to your Association's size, and every Association has at least two, ensuring everyone has a fair voice in the leadership of the MLS.

The daily operations of MFRMLS are conducted from our headquarters in Orlando, FL. MFRMLS Vice President Joel Cohen has led the MLS through significant growth in the past several years. "We are ready to grow again," Cohen says. "We have assembled an extraordinary team of management, administrative, and support staff that are prepared to pave the way for a smooth transition, and we look forward to providing a service that exceeds the expectations of our new member Associations."

The staff of your local Association also plays an important role in running MFRMLS: they serve as your local MFRMLS Service Center personnel. We are currently giving them the tools they need to support the resources of MFRMLS.

Why Did We Merge All These Assocations into One Giant System?? Read on to Find Out..

Alan Mitchell, 2007 President of the Punta Gorda - Port Charlotte - North Port Association of REALTORS® said, "We had worked for years to create a Data Sharing Alliance among the Associations in Southwest Florida, but we knew it was just a first step. We were impressed with the professionalism and outlook of MFRMLS, and sharing a common MLS with our neighboring associations to the north will be a tremendous benefit for our members."

Louise Bacher, 2007 President of the Englewood Area Board of REALTORS® says, "As an individual Association, we could not offer our members all the software benefits that Mid-Florida will because of its size." Louise also notes that joining MFRMLS will give her sellers more exposure and introduce Englewood to larger markets.

Joe Hembree, 2007 President of the Sarasota Association of REALTORS® says "Forward-thinking REALTOR® Associations nationwide are looking at consolidation of MLS systems. . .the consolidation effort strengthens our technology platform, improves our data exchange, and makes life much easier for our members."

May Aston, 2007 President of the Manatee Association of REALTORS®, is excited about joining MFRMLS. "It is something that our members have wanted for many years," she says, "and it will provide us with many services that would be difficult or expensive to obtain on our own."

Laura Kopple, 2007 President of the Venice Area Board of REALTORS® says that becoming a part of MFRMLS eliminates the need for Venice Area REALTORS® to be members of more than one MLS. "It will unify the local market and provide greater exposure for listings in Venice," Laura said.

Jack Vahey, the current MFRMLS Immediate Past President said, "We appreciate the trust and confidence the Presidents of the new Associations have placed in MFRMLS, and we are looking forward to our new partnership."

The current subscribers of MFRMLS have a lot to gain from the resources and leadership provided by your association. We are glad to have you aboard.

Currently, the MFRMLS member associations include the Bartow Board of REALTORS®, East Polk County Association of REALTORS®, Greater Lake County Association of REALTORS®, Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS®, Lakeland Association of REALTORS®, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association, Osceola County Association of REALTORS®, and West Volusia Association of REALTORS®. The new member associations include Englewood Area Board of REALTORS®, Manatee Association of REALTORS®, Punta Gorda - Port Charlotte - North Port Association of REALTORS®, Sarasota Association of REALTORS®, and Venice Area Board of REALTORS®.

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty Inc.
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Upgraded Bradenton Model Home with Oversized Lot & Pool.. $549,000

2008-06-26T15:46:02Z

Country Creek Elegant, Private Family Home Priced to Sell*5-6 Bed/2.5Bath/3.5-Car Garage*3/4 Acre Corner Lot W/Great Views Of The Lake From The Pool! Custom Upgrades Include New Tile Flooring Throughout Living Areas, New Eat-In Kitchen w/ Granite Counters, Wood Cabinets, & Upgraded Appliances! Large Solar-Heated Pool in Oversized Screened Lanai Area Perfect for Entertaining! New Berber Carpet*Fenced Backyard with Dog Run*Separate Well for Irrigation System*Room for RV or Boat Storage* 3 Zone Heating & Cooling (Low Summer Electric Bills)*Great Schools*Call 941-448-4872 Today for Showings & More Information!

Justin Shirley
941-448-4872
CEO
Shirley International Realty
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Sarasota Real Estate Statistics for May 2008.. Real Estate Sales Looking Better!

2008-06-26T13:46:20Z

(I love these Cartoons! They bring light to, and relax the mood of our dismal Real Estate Conditions.. May was a great month though! Read on..)

This information was compiled & presented by the Sarasota Association of Realtors reflecting, condos & Single-Family Homes Sold in the Month of May, 2008.. Shirley International Realty Inc. looks forward to a summer fueled by International Buying..

Sarasota Real Estate Sales Hits New High Since March 2007! The Best is Yet to Come!

Home sales in the Sarasota MLS for May 2008 stood at 627 - the highest level in 14 months, and approximately 92 percent higher than the sales in January 2008. In 2008, sales have been increasing each month, possibly due to the influence of the new property tax portability law enacted in late January. Sales have climbed from 329 in January to 423 in February, 514 in March and 567 in April.

"This year, the Sarasota real estate market has been a beacon of hope as the state and national markets continue to struggle," said Helen Sosso, 2008 SAR President. "I believe our local agents have embraced the concept of a buyers' market, and educated sellers on the realities of pricing. We still have advantageous interest rates, and our communities' natural and cultural amenities always attract buyers."

The May 2008 report continued to reflect strength in pending sales, which stood at 692 - the second highest level since June 2006. Last month's pending sales stood at 756, the highest in the period. In May 2007 only 541 pending sales were reported. Like closed sales, pending sales have been edging upward since December 2007, when there were only 374 pending sales reported. Pending sales reflect contracts executed by buyers and sellers, and indicate more closings in upcoming months and an improving market in the early summer months.

Inventory levels were lower in May 2008 for the third month, and are the lowest they have been since February 2006. Still, with 9,500 single family and 5,100 condos listed, buyers have a huge selection of more affordably priced housing to select from. The reduced inventory is a combination of fewer properties being listed, and increasing sales numbers. As the inventory continues to decline, the market will come back to more balance. As we approach equilibrium, the buyer's market we've been experiencing will be gone, and price appreciation will creep back into the market.

In general, the Sarasota MLS statistics show a rebound throughout 2008 - every month seeing stronger numbers than the month before. In fact, Sarasota statistics have been stronger in recent months than sales in the Miami market, which is a much bigger geographic and demographic area.

In the local Sarasota market, we have seen the trend already beginning toward lower inventories, higher sales, and a leveling of prices after several months of declines. The May figures reflect this new reality.

Sarasota Association of Realtors..

This is great news! Looks like our market is showing a short term rebound.. Who wouldn't want to live in this paradise?

Justin Shirley
941-448-4872
CEO
Shirley International Realty
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Justin Shirley Brings Florida Real Estate Buyers “The Deals”

2008-06-04T14:33:43Z

What does it take to get your sold in this chaotic Florida Real Estate Market? This is the question Justin has been answering for hundreds of his sellers throughout the state of Florida.. There's a number of different options & plans a seller can strategically approach to attract a buyer.. According to Justin, "Everyone is looking for a bargain in today's market.. Many buyers feel they aren't getting the best deal unless the home has a "Foreclosure" sign in the front yard, or the listing has buzz words like, "Short Sale", "Pre-Foreclosure", & "Quick Sale"".. These are all keywords that buyers are looking for when shopping for a home that make them feel they are getting the best possible bargain the market has to offer.. After sitting down with Justin and asking him to share his thoughts on Florida Real Estate, here's a few points he highlighted..

Buying Short Sales is a Long and Strenuous Process

Not necessarily.. When buying a short sale, there's a potential of up to 8-10 weeks before you hear back from the bank on a counteroffer.. Understand, you're dealing & negotiating with a bank as opposed to an independent seller here, so your offer is in a pile of other offers in the Loss Mitigation Department of the bank is already negotiating.. The bank is swamped with these "hardships".. After you hear back from the bank, there's a window of up to 90 days to get the deal to close.. Sit tight and get comfortable if a short sale is your niche buying market.. This could be a long process that is very stressful..

Short Sales & Foreclosures Are Not Necessarily the Best "Bargains"

The Short Sale market buzz could be the next "downfall" of our real estate market.. Rule #1 in short selling home is to claim a legitimate "hardship" that is so convincing, the bank is willing to take a loss on your loan balance to let you out of the purchase.. We have sellers entering this short sale market that aren't in a hardship situation, but are just looking for a way to walk away from a bad investment.. This is part of the "glut" in our inventory.. It will take some time to clean up this inventory, but for now, I'm not sure if these are even the best deals in our market.. Most of these sellers paid too much for the property in the first place, so the loss the bank is willing to take on the unit just delivers a home at par (Market Value.. Not sure if there is a market value anymore, but this is not a bargain..)

Where are the Best Bargains & Deals in Sarasota Real Estate?

The real deal and bargain market is still the seller who has owned the property for many years and has enough equity to out price even the discount inventory.. A seller who wants to sell his Longboat Key condo, and has owned this unit for 20+ years has more room to play and negotiate with his/her price than a bank who is swamped with loss after loss contracts being thrown on their desk.. I talk to many sellers who are in this situation and don't want to compete with the "Short Sale"/"Foreclosure" markets, and have this equity to give you the best bargain on the market. This allows them to sell quickly and move on with their life, creating a win/win for both parties and closing the deal inside of 30 days.. These equity rich sellers are out-pricing the sellers who overpaid for their home in the first place which is all a "Short Sale"/"Foreclosure" seller is.. These equity-rich sellers are bringing the best value to our buyers & it's these properties my investors are soaking up and being bought for 60-70% of market value..

Speak with Shirley International Realty Inc. for Help and Advice..

I don't mean to speak too negative about the short sale/foreclosure because there are instances where these sellers are completely distressed situations.. However, I'm not sold on the fact that more of this inventory is doing our buyers any favors.. The process to purchase these homes aren't clean & can be delayed for 6 months before closing, and banks are swamped with these contracts and are "tightening-up" on the losses they are taking, forcing the homeowner to rethink "Am I in a hardship, or am I just trying to sneak out of a bad purchase?".. Shirley International Realty Inc. is selling more homes now than we were 3 years ago because we are market leaders in bringing value and equity-based bargains to our buyers.. Give me a call @ 941-448-4872 & speak with Justin Shirley to make sure you buy the best bargain in our Florida Real Estate Market..

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty Inc.
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

We Sell Sarasota, Florida Real Estate..

2008-05-29T18:07:00Z

(No Matter How High Inventory Gets, or How Out of Whack Rates Become, This Picture Represents Why Florida Real Estate Will Always Be In High Demand.. We Live in Paradise..)

I've Been Working Overtime To Bring You Better Service..

Wow! Its been a great 2 months for Shirley International Realty! I apologize for being a little distant from my blog, (You'll notice I haven't posted in a few weeks) but I have been "on the ball" rounding up as many great relationships as possible that assist me in selling Real Estate! My Flat Fee MLS Listings have been a dependable avenue for sellers to get exposure on the MLS and I've learned so many things about my competition.. I've never endorsed "talking down" to the other teams, but I want to re-iterate why I feel we have a competitive advantage over a Full Service Listings, and other Flat Fee Brokers..

Full Service Listing Agents Aren't Providing Over-the-Top Service..

The Real Estate Market is slow.. Unfortunately, thats the reality of the situation we're in.. When this happens its only natural for real agents to 1)Bail out of the business (to the tune of 1,000+ agents dropping out of the local Sarasota Board of Realtors) 2)Tighten up on Marketing Expenses.. Even I am very picky about the Full Service Listings I am taking and have turned down quite a few because I know the seller can't afford to pay me 6%, and price the home to sell.. I don't think every seller is in this distressed situation, but for the ones that are, dishing out 6% shouldn't be "in the cards" for your hard earned equity.. Full Service Listings are simply listing your home on the MLS and then waiting for another agent to bring a buyer, so they can collect their commission.. Is this the attitude you want from your sales person? I'm not saying all listing agents operate liek this because I know quite a few that are worthy of that 6%.. However, most assume holding a few open houses and running a classified ad is worth 6%.. I have a better option for you..

Find a Way to Get on the MLS..

Our Flat Fee Listing service eliminates the seller from paying a listing commission! This allows you to offer broker incentives and discount your property's asking price.. We can put you on the MLS for a Low Flat Rate & STILL provide you more service than most 6% agents.. I love my Flat Fee offering because we're closing so many deals for our Flat Fee clients by saving them money at the closing table & delivering a great price to the new buyer! The real estate market is still in good shape for a sale.. Inventory is up, but you can compete as long as your receiving the right advice & marketing strategies from savvy real estate people..

The Reasons Why Shirley International Realty Can Help You Sell Through a Flat Fee MLS Listing..

-1) We can list & sell any home in the continental US (I'll go into how we've worked this out in a future post).. This ability gives us maximum exposure to the latest marketing strategies & techniques to get your home sold the quickest in any market.. (Florida isn't such a bad market by the way!)

2) When you list with us, you can make changes to your listing at any time! (This is very uncommon among my competitors.. This gives most Flat Fee Brokers an opportunity to charge you more for your listing.. Not with us.. You need a new picture added to the listing, or a price change on your home, We'll Get it Done For You!)

3) Our Price is Unbeatable.. $199 until your home is sold or until you terminate the listing, unlimited changes to your listing, & an agent on Call from 9-5 to talk to you about Real Estate Market Conditions.. Unbeatable! We offer Value..

4) Efficiency.. As soon as I get pictures of your home, within 24 hours your home is active on MLS and your phone may start ringing.. I know full listing agents that drag their feet getting your home listing.. I'm operating with a sense of urgency here! Let's get you home sold quickly..

5) I'm an Internet & Search Engine Optimization Guru... I've taken a number of websites, real estate, fitness, etc. and turned them into high traffic platforms in less than 1 month.. I know every avenue to list your home on the internet that will get you the most internet exposure.. I have a database of over 100 websites that I can advertise your home on.. Getting your home listing on as many web portals and putting it in front of as many people as possible is what you want in a listing agent.. I'm your Guy!

5) I Can Market Your Home Internationally.. I have a database of over 75 international real estate domain websites that are specifically set up to sale Florida Real Estate to Overseas buyers.. I can get your home in front of the international crowd that's buying our real estate due to our weak economy.. This is where the market's at, and I've found a way to bring them to my listings (Your Home).. International Marketing of Real Estate is What I'm focused on Now!

Give me a call or drop me an email about how I can help you sell your home.. I have an endless menu of ways I can help you market your home and generate a buyer! I like our current market conditions, and I'm actually selling more real estate now than I was 3 1/2 years ago when it was easy.. I'm making things happen for you, and would love to help.. Let me know what I can do!

Sarasota Real Estate Statistics: April 2008

2008-05-06T19:57:19Z

(Come on'... Which Face Could Sell Your Home the Quickest? Exactly..The Guy in the Blue Shirt & Gold Tie! (The Donald Has The Better Resolution Pic Though..))

The real estate market has picked up quite a bit in the Shirley International Realty Inc. office.. I'm seeing many international buyers diving into the market and taking advantage of economic slumps in the States, & many investors sinking their investment dollars back into rental properties, vacation homes, & really taking advantage of the great deals that our market is currently saturated with..

We feel our advances in internet marketing have lead to many of recently closed deals, and are now providing listing services for sellers all over the state of Florida. I will go over our new marketing techniques in a soon-to-be post.. For now, I want to take a look at the number of closed sales that have occured during the month of April 2008, and see if the market reflects the, "in-office" spike we've noticed..

Our numbers reflect Sarasota's MLS statistics of Closed Transactions only during the month of April..

Single-Family Homes - 291

Condominium - 139

Multi-Family - 6

Land - 5

Its nice to see the single-family products selling really well.. This is probably a reflection of builder incentives, and being out of "season", you'll see more buyers grabbing the single-family homes as they are more interested in living here full time (annually). The condo market really spikes well in the early & late quarters, so moving out of that the single-family looks a little more attractive. Plus, with real estate prices coming down so low, as I mentioned above, there are many investors putting tenants in single-family products and trying to cash flow these investments. Great for the market, and clearing out the bargain/discount/distressed properties that many of sellers are competing against.

Here's a list of the number of properties that entered the market during the month of April.

Single-Family Homes - 730

Condominiums - 425

Mult-Family - 42

Land - 44

As you can see the trend continues.. As the market picks up quite bit, and the volume of buying spikes, so do the number of sellers entering the market and trying to take advantage. This could continue for years to come, so its important to have an agent that markets your home internationally, putting your listing in front of more buyers than the competing sellers.

Talk to Shirley International Realty Inc. about listing your home and saving money at the closing table! Our sales volume is up as our model is to work harder during this phase of the real estate game because many Realtors are diving out of the business and this is the time to seperate our brand from other firms. We love selling real estate! Let us know how we can help you!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty Inc.
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Lakewood Ranch Home For Sale! Sophisticate Elegance! $436,000

2008-04-15T16:48:26Z

Area: 26

Square Footage: 2,571

Year Built: 2003

Sophisticated Elegance!! This oversized private lot sits on a wild-life preserve as well as a picturesque fishing pond. A nature trail leads from the back door to Adventure park where you are sure to see plenty of wildlife. Enjoy the sun setting as you entertain on the oversized lanai*Surround sound throughout the house & pool. Dive into your kidney shaped extra deep pool or enjoy fishing in your backyard. Crown molding, clean neutral decor throughout, hardwood floors & step ceilings!Gourmet kitchen, W/ Stainless Steel Appliances, Triple Sliders*Upgrades Windows, Tile, H20 Purification!

Talk to Shirley International Realty Inc. about other Beautiful Homes for Sale in Lakewood Ranch!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Bradenton Silver Lake Home on Private Lot! $439,000

2008-04-15T16:45:49Z

Area: 2021

Square Footage: 2,333

Year Built: 2005

Take Advantage of SELLER FINANCING! Stafford Model Home in Silver Lake on Private Lot! This Stafford is a 4/2.5/2 two story home with 2333ft2 of living area*The entry opens to a formal dining room*Foyer leads to a large Family Room & Kitchen/Nook*Master Suite on Ground Level has 2 Walk-in Closets, Dual Sinks, & Garden Tub w/ Shower*Secondary Bedrooms located on Spacious Second Floor with a Full Bath*New Construction Home Comes with Beautiful Appliance Package & 5-Upgraded Fans!*Perfect Location with Easy Access to I-75, Just Minutes to Sarasota Dining, Beaches, Restaurants, and Shopping!

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other Homes for Sale in Sarasota and Bradenton and specifically New Homes in Silver Lake!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Never Lived-In Mill Creek Home For Sale! $499,900

2008-04-15T16:41:59Z

Area: 2071

Square Footage: 3,000

Year Built: 2006

Kick Back & Relax in This New Construction Florida Paradise located on a Premium Waterfront Lot! 18×18 tile throughout, Carpeted Bedrooms, Energy Efficient, Tinted Windows, Stainless GE Profile Appliances, Granite Tops, Solid Wood Cabinets, Pocketing Sliders, Walk-in Pantry, His/Hers Walk-in Closets, Jetted tub with separate shower, & Central Vac! All The Bells and Whistles!

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other Mill Creek Homes for Sale in Bradenton, Florida!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
http://www.thesarasotadeed.com/

Turtle Rock Beautifully-Landscaped Home Priced for Quick Sale! $449,000

2008-04-15T16:39:40Z

Area: 63

Square Footage: 3,008

Year Built: 1997

2-Story home on a beautifully landscaped lot! Perfectly maintained and is move-in condition! Recently repainted and new plumbing in 2006*Large Family Room with 10ft. Ceilings and Built-in Cabinets*Light, Bright, and Airy Open Floor Plan with Cathedral Ceilings in the Living Room*2nd Floor has 3 Bedrooms, Full Bath with Dual Sinks*Community Amenities Included Clubhouse, Heated pool, Tennis and Basketball Courts, Bike/Hike Trails, stocked Lakes, Childrens Playground and More*In Turtle Rock you are buying not only a Home, but a Lifestyle

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other Homes in Sarasota and Turtle Rock for Sale, discounted for a Quick Sale!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Bradenton Home Drastically Reduced for Quick Sale! $349,000

2008-04-15T16:37:02Z

Area: 2042

Square Footage: 2,779

Year Built: 1969

Drastically Reduced for Quick Sale! Owner is READY to sell! Palma Sola Park, Bradenton's MOST desirable and prestigious neighborhoods. Located on a quiet street ONLY 300 ft. from Palma Sola Bay. The home has 4 bedrooms,4 and 1/2 bath, boasts a gourmet kitchen with top of line appliances (Sub Zero Refrigerator), corian Countertops, Custom Cherry Cabinetry, & a media room with a full entertainment center. A huge deck with amazing sunsets on a beautiful private lot, with lots of room for a pool! New windows! New Roof! In-Law Suite! Just Seconds to the Beach! Best Value in Entire Subdivision!

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other homes within walking distance to the Bradenton Beach discounted for a quick sale!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Myakka City Pool Home on 5-Acres! $529,000

2008-04-15T16:32:06Z

Area: 2024

Square Footage: 2,282 ft2

Year Built: 1998/UPD

5 Wooded Acres are High and Dry with no Wetlands! Pond in rear of property*Paved Driveway*Permanent Wood Playground*4 Br Plus Den with 10 Ft. Ceilings*Open Floor Plan with Crown Molding, Central Vac, Security System, Walk-in Pantry, Complete Appliance Package Included*Caged, heated, Large Pool with in ground cleaning system*Private & Serene yet Convenient to Sarasota & Bradenton*15 Min. to I-75*5-Acre Paved Subdivision with no Yearly Dues to Pay* Motivated Seller!

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other Myakka City and Bradenton Homes for Sale on 5 Acres of Land with Pools!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

St. Armands Condo w/ Full Bay Views! $500,000

2008-04-15T16:27:00Z

Area: 72

Square Footage: 816

Year Built: 1963

SARASOTA HARBOUR UNIT B-22 PRICED TO SELL IN THIS 55+COMMUNITY!! FULL BAY VIEW! Enjoy the convenience of a short walk to St. Armands Circle & Lido Beach*Boaters Paradise with One-Time Fee for Boat Slip up to 31ft*DIRECT ACCESS TO GULF*New Category 4 Metal Roofs, Car Ports, Exterior Paint, Plumbing & Water Heater*County Bus Service @ Curb*Free Cable TV Service*Efficient, Step-Saver Galley Kitchen*Prime Sarasota Waterfront Location make this Future Buyout/Redevelopment Candidate*Heated Pool, Clubhouse, & Picnic Area

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other 55 and older Condos with Gulf Views!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Lido Beach Condo w/ Gulf Views! $595,000

2008-04-15T16:24:12Z

Area: 72

Square Footage: 1,125ft2

Year Built: 1978

Location, location, location!! Enjoy Gulf Views from this 4th Floor unit Located directly on desirable Lido Beach, no streets to cross. Stroll to St. Armands unique shops and great restaurants. Unit being offered with total decor furiture package! Enjoy your morning coffee on the balcony watching the sunrise over the Gulf. Light, bright, spacious unit, nicely furnished and ready for immediate occupancy

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other Lido Key Condos for Sale and St. Armands Circle!

Virtual Tour: http://wcf.thevtpros.com/tours/1102

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Model Townhome in Palmetto- Seller-Financing- $500,000

2008-04-15T16:21:34Z

Area: 2061

Square Footage: 2,604

Year Built: 2006

Seller Financing! Model Townhome! Upgrades! Granite Countertops*18′ Tiles*Recessed Lighting*Custom Fixtures & Cabinet Lighting in Kitchen*Custom Fans*Fitness Room with High End Equipment*Custom Vanities and Light Fixtures in Bathrooms! Peaks of the Bay*Total Appliance Package Included*Stainless Steel Appliances in Kitchen*Elevator Provides Easy Access From Garage to Top Floor*LCD TV's in Master, Fitness Room Downtowns (4th Bedroom), Living Room, & Master Bath*$35,000 Kanes Furniture Package (Henredon/Stanley Barbados)*Offered Below Appraised Value

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other townhomes for sale in Bradenton and Great Investment Properties!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Beautiful Mill Creek Home for Sale! $599,000

2008-04-15T16:18:35Z

Area: 2071

Square Footage: 3,169ft2

Year Built: 2006

Intricate details abound in this Mill Creek home. From the handmade/distressed cabinetry,casement windows,8 mill wood laminate flooring to the biscuit jointed crown molding, this home screams quality. 4-5BR/3.5B with den & bonus room, fabulous kitchen with island & bay window nook, formal dining room, TRUE French doors, intercom, security, winecooler, 3 car garage & so much more. Move right in.

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other homes for sale in Bradenton, FL and Mill Creek!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Updated Siesta Key Bayside Condo! $599,900

2008-04-15T16:15:08Z

Area: 84

Square Footage: 1,460ft2

Year Built: 1973/UPD

Totally Updated 3rd Floor Tower Unit in Bldg A of PepperTree Bayside. New ceramic tile throughout, new kitchen, new bathrooms with updates. New, New, New! Fully furnished unit great for home or vacation/investment! View of green belt from closed porch! Steps to the World-Renowned Sands of Siesta Key & all the Amenities of Downtown Sarasota!

Talk to Shirley International Realty about buying and selling Siesta Key Condos!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Contemporary Home West of the Trail! $559,000

2008-04-15T16:11:37Z

Area: 91

Square Footage: 2,105

Year Built: 1965

WEST OF THE TRAIL WITH PARTIAL BAY VIEWS FROM THIS UNIQUE CONTEMPORARY RESIDENCE! Upgrades Galore! Euro-Style Kitchen and Baths*Spacious Master Bedroom Suite*Shoji Screen Doors*Skylights*Terrazzo Floors*Floor Plan Opens Views From Every Room to Tropical Oriental-Polynesian Garden Surrounding House*Wooded Shaded Stream*Custom Tiled Pool With Fountain*So Private You'll Feel Hidden From the World*Award Winning School District!*Master Suite has a New Bath w/Skylight & a Custom Large Light Tile Glass Walk-in Shower*Trade Possible

Talk to Shirley International Realty about other Contemporary & West of Trail homes in Sarasota, Fl!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM

Venice Home on 5-Acres- $649,000

2008-04-15T16:06:47Z

Area: 3052

Square Footage: 2,050ft2

Year Built: 1981

Country Living on 5 acres Close to Beaches I-75! This house is realistically priced and ready to move in-Bring your horses*Re-Modeled Beautifully*Located on 4.66 Acres*Property Has a Barn and 3 StallsFor Horses*Ac Throughout*New Roof-Approximately*New Water System*New Kitchen, Bathroom, & Kitchen*New Carpet, Tile, & Pergo Flooring Throughout*New Garage Door & Opener*New Exterior & Vinyl Siding*New Appliances purchased in the last year-not used*Pool size 20×40 (approx)-recently resurfaced Quartz finish*Pool Deck recently resurfaced*New Pool Cage

Talk to Shirley International Realty about this property and other Venice Homes with Pools!

Justin Shirley
CEO
Shirley International Realty
941-448-4872
WWW.TheSarasotaDeed.COM