Liane Jamason's Tampa Bay Real Estate Blog

RENT - the Broadway Musical comes to Riverview!

2008-07-25T07:16:47Z

From TBO.com: RIVERVIEW - Drama students from 10 area schools will present the Florida premiere of "Rent: School Edition," when they take the stage Thursday at Riverview High School.

"It's about a bunch of starving artists in the 1990s," said Daron Hawkins, one of three directors. "It's so beautifully written. The music and original story are handled so eloquently."

A modern-day version of Giacomo Puccini's opera "La Bohème," the musical is a toned-down version of the musical "Rent," which has appeared on Broadway since April 29, 1996.

Set in New York's Lower East Side during the winter, the story centers on a year in the lives of seven young Bohemians struggling to survive and celebrate life. Addressing adult themes, it includes controversial issues, such as AIDS, street people, drug use and homosexuality.

The school edition is an officially licensed version of the rock musical, with book, music and lyrics by Jonathan Larson. The adaptation was made to retain the dramatic intent of the musical, making minimal changes to language and removing one song, "Contact." The cast must be students 19 or younger.

The 25-member cast and crew come from Riverview, Newsome, Durant, Spoto and Bloomingdale high schools, Progress Village Middle School of the Arts and Randall Middle.

"It means a lot to me, because people in this community don't get this type of entertainment," said Riverview High senior Gabe Hernandez, 18.

Dressed as Angel Schunard, one of the main characters, he said, "I've never been in drag before, so this is a very new role for me. I think it's so good for us to show this type of work."

"I've always loved this show," said Allison Curran, 16, a junior at Bloomingdale who's playing random ensemble roles. "It seems so unreal that we're actually getting to do it. This is my first performance at Riverview High School. Everything is so professional."

Keeping true to the original work, Hawkins acknowledged that in addition to language and the one-song omission, the high school edition was edited for length.

"It's 98 percent sung," he said. "All the original songs but one are included and the story's still intact. It's not preachy, but it shows the lives of people and how their lives can be destroyed."

Besides the set, Hawkins said he made sure the costumes are representative of the late 1980s and 1990s.

"Rent" began as a play, and it has been on Broadway so long, it's now a period piece," he said. "It won a 1996 Pulitzer Prize for drama and four Tony awards."

The theater project is supported by the Riverview High School Booster Club. Its focus is to provide quality productions to the South Shore community. Students from any Hillsborough County school are eligible to participate.

Past summer productions include "Grease," "Footloose," "Annie," "The Wiz" and "Guys and Dolls."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: "Rent: School Edition"

WHERE: Riverview High School auditorium, 11311 Boyette Road, Riverview

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday

DIRECTORS: Daron Hawkins, Bev Sutherland and John Davis II

STAGE MANAGERS: Tori Barfield, Riverview High School; Ashley Darling, King High School; Shaina Leguizamon, Giunta Middle School

TECHNICIAN: Ryan Owens, Riverview High School

TICKETS: $8, available at the door or at www.ticketleap.com. Twenty-five $5 tickets will be sold by lottery 30 minutes before each performance for seating in the first two rows.

INFORMATION: (813) 671-5011, ext. 259

CAST MEMBERS

MARK COHEN: Steven Frey, King High School

ROGER DAVIS: Armando Valdes, Newsome High School

MRS. COHEN: Noe Pickrell, Newsome High School

TOM COLLINS: Ryan Roselli, Riverview High School

BENJAMIN COFFIN III: Rodney Bueno, Riverview High School

JOANNE JEFFERSON: Karli Gunderson, Riverview High School

SQUEEGEE MAN: Dylan Watson, Riverview High School

ANGEL SCHUNARD: Gabe Hernandez, Riverview High School

MIMI MARQUEZ: Alex Catalani, Riverview High School

MR. JEFFERSON, MR. GREY: Robert Then, Riverview High School

MRS. JEFFERSON, LIZ: Meaghan Pickett, Newsome High School

PAUL: Cesar Razza, Newsome High School

TAYLOR: Carly Johnson, Progress Village Middle School for the Arts

ALI, COP: Taylor Kelly, Randall Middle School

PAM: Allison Curran, Bloomingdale High School

SUE, ALEXI DARLING: Sterling Phillips, Spoto High School

BLANKET WOMAN: Annie Connelly, Progress Village Middle School for the Arts

COP, WAITER, PASTOR: Tyler Cook, Durant High School

MAUREEN JOHNSON: Megan Stevenson, Durant High School

MIMI'S MOTHER: Dayla Rodriguez, Riverview High School

ROGER'S MOTHER: Sarah Wilson, Riverview High School

Stretch of Balm-Riverview Road to close until Aug. 13th

2008-07-25T07:10:30Z

According to TBO.com, a two lane road near Boyette Farms will be closed for one to two weeks starting this Wednesday. A short stretch of Balm Riverview Road will undergo drainage improvements until Aug. 13.

The area affected by the closure will be northbound and southbound traffic from Boyette Road to north of La Petite Way. Workers will close off one lane at a time during the work. Traffic will be allowed to use the open lane on an alternating basis.

For information, call (813) 272-5275.

New bowling alley in Riverview beckons bowlers!

2008-07-16T09:42:22Z

Its about time we start seeing more entertainment venues and restaurants coming to Riverview! The Alley at South Shore is busy everyday! I hope other entrepreneurs will take notice and bring more places like the Alley to Riverview!

Alley beckons bowlers with more than pins

By Traci Rader, Times Correspondent

Published Wednesday, June 18, 2008 4:53 PM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

RIVERVIEW -" The demographics and statistics told Jeff Boje that Riverview wasn't the best place for a new bowling alley. He didn't listen.

With that, the Alley at South Shore was born. The 42,000-square-foot complex opened March 3 at the southwest corner of Big Bend Road and U.S. 301.

"Riverview is not an area a big corporation would pick, but some place my family can manage. I wanted to build close to home, too," Boje said.

And it's far from your father's bowling alley: Sure, there's the usual bowling alley staples - a snack bar and pro shop - but that's just the start.

There's a corporate meeting room, ice cream parlor, tony pool room, sports bar and restaurant and a 5,000-square-foot game room, the biggest one south of Brandon's Chuck E. Cheese.

There's more: The Alley has a private bowling section with eight lanes, a private bar - and couches at the lanes.

The Alley will offer summer leagues starting this month and running through August. But you don't have to join a league to knock down a few pins: The Alley is drawing kids' birthday parties, company meetings and families looking for recreation.

Boje quietly opened the Alley in March but word got around fast and the place was busy within days.

"It's been hectic already. Friday nights, you can't even see the carpet," said Buck Barineau, who owns Bowlers Advantage pro shop inside the Alley.

For Boje, bowling alleys run in the family. He has owned Brandon Crossroads Bowl since 1979. Until his fifth child came along in 1998, he also ran the St. Louis bowling alley his father built.

There are 13 bowling alleys in the greater Tampa area, but the Alley is sweet relief for avid bowlers like Bob and Anne Bailey of Sun City Center.

The Baileys have been making the drive to Tampa to bowl.

"When our league is finished, we will be coming here. And the score panel is easy to operate. Even I can figure this out," Bob Bailey said. "

Dixie's Dockside in Riverview

2008-07-16T09:37:46Z

Just wanted to let everyone know that the Alafia Bait and Tackle in Riverview has reopened as "Dixie's Dockside". Dixie's is owned by local Riverview residents Brian and Dixie MacKay. Dixie's is open everyday at 11AM and closes most days around 9 to 11PM-ish.

Food will be available on weekends through an independent food wagon just feet away from Dixie's. Dixie's has frozen Bait for the fishermen and women. At this time they have the least expensive gas on the water in the entire USA, and will strive to always be the least expensive gas, and with no ethanol in their gas.

Dixie's also has the only private boat ramp on the Alafia River with Free usage with a $10 or more purchase.

Daily specials such as Free Nachos and Queso on Monday from 5PM till 7PM. On Tuesday ladies drink for half-price from 6PM to close. Wednesdays, Dixie's has Free Hot Dogs from 6 till 8PM for all customers. Friday afternoon and night is the place to be seen and to see your friends. Saturday always bring out the Locals. Live entertainment on the weekends. Boat rentals are available for the large group and Skiffs available for smaller rental parties.

You can check out Dixie's Dockside website. Dixie's is located at 9808 Vaughn Street, Gibsonton. 813-671-4999. The perfect place to relax on the river. Looking forward to seeing everyone at Dixie's.

Open House at Regatta Beach Club on Saturday, 6/28 from 10am to 12pm!

2008-06-26T19:33:00Z

Join us this Saturday, June 28th, at Regatta Beach Club, Unit C-307, for an Open House from 10am to 12pm. Refreshments will be provided! Stop by and see the amazing Gulf View from this fully furnished condominium with upgrades galore! When you get to the gate, use the callbox to call the front desk/security and tell them you are there for the Open House.

Liane Jamason | Keller Williams Realty | 813.486.4997

880 Mandalay Ave., Unit C307, Clearwater, FL

Magnificent Gulf of Mexico view!

2BR/1BA Condo

offered at $594,000

Year Built	1962
Sq Footage	950
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Covered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$500 per month

DESCRIPTION

UPGRADES, UPGRADES, UPGRADES! This seller has traveled the world and it shows in the high quality imported materials used to upgrade this one-of-a-kind condo overlooking the Gulf of Mexico! Located directly on one of the nation's top beaches with a balcony overlooking an olympic size heated pool and the Gulf with stunning views from every room!!! You've got to see this one to believe it!

Completely upgraded with an open kitchen with stainless steel backsplash, marble breakfast bar, new cabinets, crown molding, Italian limestone floors with marble custom insets with Mosaic design, stainless appliances and recessed lighting. The mirrored bath has a slate and marble surround and Euro sink is simply beautiful!

Building features a new roof, and unit got new A/C in 2005. Balcony also covered in porcelain tile that does not get hot - even in direct sun.

Other features of the building are a fitness center, hair salon, heated pool, club room with large screen TV and full kitchen, billiard room, bistro-style restaurant with take-out service, business center with computers, fax and copier and concierge service.

Also included is one storage unit and one covered parking space (currently sells for appx. $8,000-$10,000). Sold furnished with a great offer. Seller would also consider a lease option. Bring all offers!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Family room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances
Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

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

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Liane Jamason

Keller Williams Realty

813.486.4997

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 23, 2008, 10:47am PDT

Approval is Near for Bill to Help U.S. Homeowners facing foreclosure!

2008-06-25T09:07:19Z

Great news out of Washington. Could this be the key to the current housing and economic crisis, especially for Tampa Bay residents? I see it everyday - thousands of short sales and foreclosures in Tampa. I, for one, hope this passes and the Tampa housing market starts to recover.

Source: NY Times.

WASHINGTON - With sinking home values continuing to drag down the economy, Congress is poised to approve a huge package of housing legislation, including a refinancing program aimed at rescuing hundreds of thousands of homeowners in danger of foreclosure and the most sweeping government overhaul of mortgage financing since the New Deal.

Lawmakers moved with increasing urgency on Tuesday after a closely watched housing index showed prices nationally had declined in April by more than 15 percent from a year earlier. Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, the majority leader, threatened to keep the Senate in session through the Fourth of July holiday to finish the housing measure, if needed. The House has already approved similar legislation.

The centerpiece of the Senate package is a rescue-refinancing plan aimed at stemming the tide of more than 8,000 new foreclosures a day that lenders are filing across the country. The plan would allow distressed borrowers and their lenders to stem losses by allowing qualified owners to refinance into more affordable, 30-year fixed-rate loans with a federal guarantee.

The legislation would also provide benefits for first-time buyers, who would receive a refundable tax credit of up to $8,000, or 10 percent of the value of a home, on purchases of unoccupied housing.

As part of a regulatory overhaul of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the mortgage finance giants, the bill would permanently increase to $625,000, from $417,000, the limit on loans they can purchase from lenders in expensive housing markets, making it easier for borrowers to obtain mortgages at discounted rates. Despite a presidential veto threat, the package received overwhelming bipartisan support, clearing by 83 to 9 a crucial procedural vote in the Senate on Tuesday morning.

Final passage of the bill was snagged temporarily in the Senate Tuesday evening because of a fight over renewable energy tax credits. Still, major supporters of the bill said they hoped it would be completed before for the holiday.

"There's a great desire to act," said Representative Barney Frank, Democrat of Massachusetts, the bill's main author in the House. "We're just not there yet."

The bill would provide $150 million to expand counseling for borrowers to prevent foreclosure and would establish stricter disclosure rules to require lenders to make plain the maximum monthly payment for a borrower with an adjustable rate loan.

The bill also establishes an Affordable Housing Trust Fund, to be financed by $500 million to $900 million in fees from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The fund will cover any expenses related to the foreclosure rescue plan for three years, and will be used to create affordable rental housing.

Under the refinancing plan, only borrowers seeking to remain in their primary home would be eligible. Lenders would first have to agree to cut the principal balance of loans to roughly 85 percent of each property's current value.

Still, with the closely watched Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller index showing home prices in 10 major metropolitan areas down 16.35 percent in April from a year ago - the worst annual decline in two decades - lawmakers and some housing experts said the refinancing plan was becoming increasingly attractive to lenders.

According to industry benchmarks, lenders lose as much as 40 to 60 percent in foreclosure.

Even as Senate negotiators raced to finish the package ahead of the recess, talks were already under way with Mr. Frank and the House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, to reconcile differences between the Senate bill and similar legislation approved by the House.

At the White House, the press secretary, Dana Perino, softened some of the Bush administration's criticism.

"We do think that there are some really good aspects of that Senate bill," she said.

Still, Ms. Perino reiterated the veto threat citing concern over a provision that would allocate nearly $4 billion in grants to communities with high foreclosure rates to buy and rehabilitate vacant properties.

Senator Christopher J. Dodd, Democrat of Connecticut, the chairman of the banking committee, said that he was willing to negotiate with the White House over the proposed grant money.

And Mr. Dodd said he believed lawmakers wanted to finish the bill before heading home for Independence Day: "People I don't think want to leave here, hanging bunting around and eating hot dogs and hamburgers knowing that every day thousands of Americans are falling into an abyss, losing their housing."

Skeptics say the plan is a handout for irresponsible borrowers and lenders, who would be able to get rid of their worst-performing mortgages, putting taxpayers on the hook for billions of dollars in risky loans.

But in a contested election year, with Americans losing billions of dollars in home equity, officials in both parties seem reluctant to be seen as sitting on their hands.

And a close look at the fine print of the bill shows that lenders who want to use the program to refinance troubled loans into new, federally insured mortgages will have to take substantial losses. They will also have to make carefully calculated decisions about whether it makes more sense to foreclose and resell or auction a property or to help a struggling borrower refinance and remain in the home.

At the same time, homeowners seeking to use the program will have to prove that they have enough income and creditworthiness that they can afford to pay their new loans.

"The mortgages aren't just being given out on willy-nilly random basis," said Senator John Kerry, Democrat of Massachusetts.

Borrowers will have to pay a hefty fees to further insulate taxpayers from losses. As a result, the biggest risk may be that because the program is complicated - and voluntary - few lenders or borrowers will make use of it.

The delay Tuesday night exposed a rare rift between two senators from the same state, Mr. Reid, and Nevada's junior senator, John Ensign, a Republican who was pushing renewable energy tax credits.

Mr. Reid, in a speech on the Senate floor did not refer to Mr. Ensign by name, but was angry.

"We're going to stay here and finish the housing bill," he said. "It may knock a few people out of parades on July Fourth or whatever, however long it takes us to do this."

Robert Pear contributed reporting.

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
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New listings - Single Family, Condos, Rentals, oh my!

2008-06-23T18:08:05Z

I'd love for you to check out some of my new listings - single family, condos, new construction, rentals and more!
If you need to buy or sell a home in the Tampa area, or beyond, please do not hesitate to call me!

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
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Can your Realtor do this? Why I can sell your home FAST!

2008-06-18T18:36:51Z

You may ask yourself, what does my Realtor do for his or her commission?

Not all Realtors are alike. Before I was in real estate, I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Management with a concentration in Marketing, and I worked in the IT field. I consider myself a bit of a Real Estate Geek.

What do you get as my client if you list your home with me?

My client’s listings all get:
* Large Custom For Sale Sign
* Custom “Text for more Info” sign riders to give buyers more info instantly on your home
* Electronic Lockbox which monitors who's shown the property and when (this helps keep your home and belongings secure)
* Placement of the home on MLS with multiple color photos, virtual tour and description of the home's features
* Custom YouTube video of the home and virtual tour for placement on MLS and other real estate websites
* All listings get their own custom address website for advertising purposes
*Advertising on over 500+ websites including Realtor.com, Zillow, etc. as well as international real estate websites to attract international buyers, an untapped market
* Professional photography with a high resolution Digital SLR and panoramic photos because a picture IS worth a thousand words
* Custom color flyers for on and offline advertising
* Advertising in various real estate publications

What does all this mean? Additional advertising means additional exposure of your home to the many buyers in Tampa Bay, and beyond!
I've had sellers call me after previously having listed their home with another real estate agent who didn't sell their home. When I ask them why they are looking for a new REALTOR®, they most common response I get is that the prior agent did nothing to market their home but put a sign on the lawn and put the home on MLS. I do a lot more than put a pretty "For Sale" sign in my client's yard, as evidenced above - and it helps my client's homes sell faster!
What else do I handle for my clients?
 I pay for all marketing and advertising costs.

 I have experience and expertise in all aspects of the sales process including marketing, financing, negotiations and more.

 I research your neighborhood to see what other homes like yours are listed for, and what they are selling for, to help price yours correctly.

 I arrange all showings of the home and pre-qualify buyers who see your home.

 I bring to you a network of known, trusted real estate professionals, as well as a title company, mortgage company, home inspector and more.

 I always have your interests in mind so you always have someone on your side.

 I handle and advise on all price and contract negotiations.

 I provides you with all the possible options and opportunities without holding back.

 I give you an unbiased, realistic view of your home and give staging tips if necessary to help you sell fast.

 I will guide the entire buying and selling process to make the transition less work and less stress for you.

So in choosing a REALTOR® to represent you in buying or selling your home, consider all of these things. When you are ready, I hope to hear from you. Visit my website to learn more about my services.

322 E. Bloomingdale Avenue - Office Space for Sale - over 4,500 sq. ft!

2008-06-12T12:02:34Z

Liane Jamason | Keller Williams Realty | 813.642.6202

322 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon, FL

PERFECT for doctor's office, chiropractor, small law firm - or YOUR
Brandon business!

Office

offered at $830,000

Year Built 2001

Sq Footage 4,782

Floors 1

Parking Uncovered spaces

Lot Size Unspecified

Maint $1,687 per month

DESCRIPTION

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Professional office suites conveniently located in central Brandon/Valrico area and just minutes to I-75, Hwy 301 and the surrounding Riverview and Lithia areas. Bloomingdale is a major through road attracting a lot of drive by business. Building consists of 4500 square feet of professional office space. 2000 square feet of the space already has a tenant therefore cutting expenses. The property is a terrific professional setting for your business. The waiting room is outfitted with hard wood floors and the reception area is move in ready with built in desks and wood cabinets. Each suite has two front entrances and two back doors for maximum flexibility. This building was constructed with energy savings in mind for you and your tenant. The business park is open and clean with the building facades in brick to keep maintenance to a minimum and the decor modern for years to come, therefore holding and increasing the value of your building. Come and see this great location for your business!

see additional photos below

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Liane Jamason

Keller Williams Realty

813.642.6202

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 12, 2008, 6:31am PDT

YouTube Video: Executive Office Space available for sale in Brandon/Valrico!

2008-06-12T11:58:24Z
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!
Professional office suites conveniently located in central Brandon/Valrico area and just minutes to I-75, Hwy 301 and the surrounding Riverview and Lithia areas. Bloomingdale is a major through road attracting a lot of drive by business. Building consists of 4500 square feet of professional office space. 2000 square feet of the space already has a tenant therefore cutting expenses. The property is a terrific professional setting for your business. The waiting room is outfitted with hard wood floors and the reception area is move in ready with built in desks and wood cabinets. Each suite has two front entrances and two back doors for maximum flexibility. This building was constructed with energy savings in mind for you and your tenant. The business park is open and clean with the building facades in brick to keep maintenance to a minimum and the decor modern for years to come, therefore holding and increasing the value of your building. Come and see this great location for your business!

New Foreclosure Fraud Law in Florida goes into effect October 1.

2008-06-11T13:06:37Z
I just received the following important information from my title company for Florida residents regarding a new law that was just passed regarding Foreclosure Fraud in Florida - this affects Real Estate agents as well.
"NEW FORECLOSURE LAW IN FLORIDA
This is the interpretation of two Reputable Florida Attorneys of the New Foreclosure Law.
The law was passed and goes into effect October 1, 2008. Here are some highlights of the law:
1. It will eliminate “subject to” on a primary residence in foreclosure.
2. A person in foreclosure on their primary residence will have 3 days to change their mind when selling their house. This is similar to a refinance of a mortgage where the Seller can decide whether or not to keep the new mortgage on the property.
3. Real Estate Agents could be responsible for knowing the status of the Seller's mortgage. We always thought that the Real Estate Agent should know the balance of the mortgage and now whether or not they are in foreclosure.
4. Many Real Estate agents and investors may just choose not to help people in foreclosure because of all the extra potential liability.
5. This law limits the ability to collect any up front fees, as some short sale negotiation companies do and the seller will be restricted from paying them.
6. It is a gray area when it comes to exclusions or exemption of real estate agents."
This causes me some alarm as many Realtors know, sometimes sellers are not completely honest with their Realtors about what they owe on their mortgage. We can check the title to see the status but if a seller has not been paying the mortgage and the bank has not gotten around to filing foreclosure papers yet - they are in pre-foreclosure - are we expected to know that if the seller doesn't disclose that information? For those Realtors that handle short sales, are we now going to be facing higher liability?
My only thought on how to avoid potentially liability is that when you are listing a home, ask to see the coupon book or have the seller phone the lender while you are there to verify the last payment amount and date. Although this could be embarrassing if the seller feels their new Realtor doesn't trust their word that they are up to date on payments. *Sigh*.
Here's a link to the New Florida Law
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
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Become a Real Estate reality TV superstar!

2008-06-09T15:11:26Z

OK are there any other Realtors out there who love the new slew of Real Estate related reality TV shows out there? I certainly don't have time to watch them all, but when I have seen them I think to myself, wow - these agents must get REALLY busy once their show airs! Now there's an idea!

Well now its your chance to become a Real Estate reality TV superstar!
Would you like to be a star on home improvement/real estate reality TV? Here's how to be a contestant or a featured guest and share your experience with the world.
• HGTV
• TLC/Discovery
• DIY Network
• A&E
• ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition
I am not sure I have the guts to apply, yet...I'm thinking about it. But tell us if you do so we can watch you!

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
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3/2 in Valrico - move in ready! Just $189,000!

2008-06-05T12:24:15Z
This home is immaculate and move-in ready! Gorgeous 3 bedroom/2 bath home in quiet neighborhood in Valrico - no HOA fees! Home features newer carpet with original tile underneath if buyer prefers. Upgrades everywhere and the beautiful window treatments go with sale! NOT a short sale - just priced to sell! The backyard is HUGE and big enough to put in a pool. New roof in 2006. Fenced backyard and screened in lanai. Mature landscaping. Don't miss the virtual tour on this one!

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
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New Listing - 3/2 home in Valrico with no HOA! Huge Yard! Just $189K!

2008-06-03T11:22:42Z

Liane Jamason | Keller Williams Realty | liane@kw.com | 813.486.4997

914 Silver Ridge Way, Valrico, FL

No HOA! Immaculate, move-in ready home!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $189,000

Year Built 1982

Sq Footage 1,228

Bedrooms 3

Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial

Floors 1

Parking 1 Car garage

Lot Size 11,500 sqft

HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This home is immaculate and move-in ready! Gorgeous 3 bedroom/2 bath home in quiet neighborhood in Valrico - no HOA fees! Home features newer carpet with original tile underneath if buyer prefers. Upgrades everywhere and the beautiful window treatments go with sale! NOT a short sale - just priced to sell! The backyard is HUGE and big enough to put in a pool. New roof in 2006. Fenced backyard and screened in lanai. Mature landscaping. Don't miss the virtual tour on this one!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C Central heat Tile floor

Family room Dining room Dishwasher

Refrigerator Stove/Oven Washer

Dryer Balcony, Deck, or Patio Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Liane Jamason

Keller Williams Realty

liane@kw.com

813.486.4997

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 3, 2008, 7:26am PDT

Tampa's Housing Stats are UP!

2008-05-27T07:39:46Z
According to the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors, Tampa's housing stats are up again! We are seeing a great trend here. From January 2008 to April 2008, Tampa existing home sales are up a whopping 56%. Inventory is down 2% since January 2008. What does this mean for Tampa residents? The market is getting better! Home prices are still relatively low for buyers, but they are rebounding from the real estate slump.
If you've been waiting to list your Tampa home for sale because you want to wait for the market to start to rebound, now may be the time to think about listing! Call me today for a free market analysis of your home.
Check out the stats yourself below, just released by the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors.

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
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Should you buy a Tampa home now or wait for rock bottom prices?

2008-05-19T18:32:56Z

Some homebuyers have recently asked me the question, should I buy a Tampa home now, or wait and see if prices drop even more? Many buyers are waiting for the market to "bottom out". Yes, we have been in a real estate slump over the past few years, but there is no expert who can say yes or no to whether the slump is over, or whether we've already seen rock bottom.

However, home buyers, especially if you are now a renter or first time buyer, should consider that interest rates are now lower than they've been in years due to the Fed trying to stimulate the economy by dropping interest rates. So home prices are reasonable and interest rates are low. Not to mention, check out a rent vs. buy calculator. It's a no-brainer - buying a home is a sound investment if you are not trying to be a flipper and plan to live in it for at least a few years. To me, that seems like a great time to buy! Not to mention - even Tampa New Home Buildersare dropping their prices and we have the negotiation skills to get their prices down. Check out this analysis we did as an example on a $200K home with $5000 down at 5.5%. Let's say you pay $1400 a month in rent now. What's better - to rent or buy a home in Tampa?

Your customized rent versus own analysis is based upon:

An initial monthly rental payment of $1,400.00. We assume that your rent will increase by 3% per year.

You are considering buying a home valued at $200,000.00, with a down payment of 2.5% or $5,000.00. Your monthly mortgage payment of $1,107.19 includes both principal and interest and is based upon a loan amount at an interest rate of 5.5%. Because your down payment is less than 25 %, we have included Mortgage Insurance to be paid on a monthly basis.

Summary:

By buying your home versus renting you will have saved $383,577.40 over the next 10 years. (Net Appreciation - Total Investment Return + Total Rental Payment - Total Mortgage Payment)

Breakdown of this Analysis:

Total Rental Payment: $196,193.17 Total Mortgage Payment: $192,862.63

Down Payment: $5,000.00 Home Value: $518,748.49

Interest Earned: $3,144.47 Remaining Loan Balance: $130,357.16

Total Investment Return: $8,144.47 Net Appreciation: $388,391.33

If you are ready to consider buying a home in Tampa, please call me today! My services are free to buyers and I do not charge a transaction fee!

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
Search Tampa Homes
Search Tampa Short Sales & Foreclosures

Hey Florida Agents - Did you know that FloridaRealtors.org has a forum?

2008-05-09T10:50:01Z
I found this Florida Association Of Realtors Forum today - neat! Have you signed up yet? This is a great place to bounce ideas off of other agents and get quick questions answered. Not to mention, you can drive traffic to your blog via your signature and post a custom avatar. ;)
Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
Search Tampa Homes
Search Tampa Short Sales & Foreclosures

BuyOwner places liens on homes they list?! Huh?

2008-05-07T12:04:37Z
I had an interesting situation today. One of my listings finally went under contract recently. The Title Company ran a search and found a lien placed by MLS Realty. MLS Realty is the parent company of BuyOwner.com.
My clients had their home listed through BuyOwner before listing it with me. I called MLS Realty to find out what the deal was with the lien and they said oh we've just faxed you the Satisfaction of Lien. I asked why there was a lien in the first place and they told me they always place a lien on properties they list, and in this case, they'd just forgotten to remove it.
WHAT? Am I naive on this, or has anyone else ever heard of Realty companies doing this? Why do they place a lien anyway if people pay for their services up front?
Just reason 101 why you should use a Realtor instead of BuyOwner! This makes me sick! And do you suppose people know that they do this when they sign with BuyOwner or is it hidden in the fine print?
Here's more I've found out about this situation. RipOff Report. Seems it is happening a lot. Isn't anyone else at all outraged by this? I am shocked they are still in business!

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
Search Tampa Homes
Search Tampa Short Sales & Foreclosures

Real Estate Marketing - is this tacky or thoughtful?

2008-05-05T18:10:19Z

I had to laugh as some agents in my office were discussing funny ways to generate new leads. It had come up in conversation that I like to work on my website or send client emails while sitting at Starbucks with my dog and my laptop. Someone said, you should get her a shirt that says "My mom is a real estate agent". I had to laugh. Tacky or cute and thoughtful? You decide. Would you put your child or dog in something like this?
I've heard countless stories about what I'd consider slightly tacky ways Realtors have promoted themselves - but maybe it is worth it if it brings you a customer! What do you think?
P.S. If you think its cute, you can get this shirt and many other real estate related shirts like it at CafePress.

An hour (or three) of lead generation a day keeps the real estate blues away!

2008-05-05T08:03:58Z
According to Keller Williams philosophy on lead generation, an hour (or three) a day of lead generation a day keeps the real estate blues away!
KW is encouraging their agents to spend each day from 9am to 10am doing lead generation - called the Power Hour. Do other real estate companies or individuals follow this simple technique? It could include calling expireds and withdrawns, calling your sphere of influence, etc.
I am curious about what other KW agents, as well as agents from other brokerages do for their Power Hour, if they practice this technique!
Personally I do call on expireds from time to time, but I also practice techniques like blogging on ActiveRain, posting ads on Craigslist and other marketing techniques to provide leads for myself! You get out of lead generation what you put in so its important to schedule time everyday to generate leads! Here's the video on the KW Power Hour - yes, you have to be a KW agent to watch the official KW video - but here's another really funny video based on Jerry McGuire I found that gives you an idea of the principals of the Power Hour - and you don't have to be a KW agent to see it!

Have you filed your taxes yet? Read this first!

2008-03-27T15:54:49Z
Important news for homeowners about taxes! Read this - just released by the FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
"Homeowners take first-ever tax deduction for mortgage insurance
WASHINGTON - March 27, 2008 - Many qualified taxpayers are preparing to claim their first-ever tax deduction for mortgage insurance premiums on home loans that closed in 2007.
The tax deduction was first approved by Congress in late 2006 and applied to loans with mortgage insurance that closed in 2007. In an important move to further assist borrowers, Congress voted in December of last year to extend the mortgage insurance tax deduction through 2010. Extension of the tax deduction for mortgage insurance premiums was part of the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007.
The deduction allows households with an adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less to deduct the full cost of their government or private mortgage insurance premiums on their federal tax returns. Families with incomes between $100,000 and $109,000 are eligible for a reduced deduction.
"For the first time, many low- and moderate-income families who purchased homes with private or government mortgage insurance, will be able to deduct those premiums when they file their 2007 federal tax returns next month," says Kevin Schneider, president of the Mortgage Insurance Companies of America (MICA). "On average, this year's tax break could be worth $350 per taxpayer - an annual deduction that qualified homeowners can take each year through 2010."
"Like many other populations, our community relies on homeownership to build wealth. Government and privately insured mortgages help low- and moderate-income families gain a foothold in the housing market and realize their piece of the American Dream," says Timothy Sandos, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP). "

Top Reasons Tampa Homes Aren't Selling

2008-03-25T15:17:13Z
Here are some of the main reasons that many consumers are seeing a lot of homes for sale in their Tampa neighborhoods that aren't selling.
1. Agents take the listing at a price suggested by the seller, based on the market 2 years ago. Hire a REALTOR who is going to tell you the truth and do a comparative market analysis to price your home, based on TODAY'S selling prices.
2. There are stricter standards for qualifying for a mortgage. This reduces the number of buyers. It used to be that just about everyone could get a 100% loan. Not so anymore. There are still some lenders doing an 80% 1st mortgage with a 20% 2nd mortgage for a total of 100%, but beyond that, the highest we are seeing lately is 95%. So save your pennies for that dream home!
3. Qualified buyers are not buying, waiting for the prices to come down further. That may or may not happen. As a Tampa Bay Realtor, I am starting to notice that my phone is ringing more lately. If you are in a position to buy, its my opinion that now is a great time. Interest rates are at a new low, and there are some fabulous deals out there on Tampa homes.
4. There are too many listings and not enough buyers. This is true. Many people got in over their heads during the boom or thought they could become a "flipper" and now are stuck. But as I said before, I am starting to notice my phone ringing more, and I am hoping that this downturned market maybe is starting to slowly swing back up. If you are a first time homebuyer or were previously renting, now is a great time to think about buying a home while prices are still low. If you must sell your home now, make sure you stage it nicely and keep it clean and tidy since buyers have a lot to pick from right now. Make sure yours stands out.
When listing properties REALTORS should explain to buyers that we get the most activity in the first few weeks and should explain the consequences of listing too high. This is why its important to hire a REALTOR who will price your home fairly.
If you are thinking its time to buy or sell a home, please feel free to give me a call, or browse my Tampa Real Estate Website for buyer and seller tips, to search Tampa homes and more!

Liane Jamason, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
Search Tampa Homes
Search Tampa Short Sales & Foreclosures

Clinton Striving For Upper Hand On Mortgage Crisis

2008-03-25T07:55:14Z

As Tampa Realtors, we know that the number of Tampa short sales and foreclosures has skyrocketed over the last few years. Hillary Clinton has released a plan to help the economy and get control over the mortgage crisis. The plan was submitted to the President and Ms. Clinton is calling for something to be done now, not if or when she gets into office. McCain is expected to similarly release a plan today focusing on the economy, a topic which has has not pushed much during his campaign. President Bush is now under fire to do something - what do you think the outcome will be? Here's an article about the plan Clinton released.
PHILADELPHIA - - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton sought on Monday to pitch herself as the candidate with the remedy for the nation's housing crisis.

Her assertion drew an aggressive pushback from Sen. Barack Obama's campaign as the two rivals continued to wrestle for the upper hand on the issue of the economy.

As the economy has overtaken Iraq in recent months as the dominant campaign issue, Clinton and Obama have increasingly turned their attention to darkening forecasts about the nation's financial health.

The Democratic contenders have flayed President Bush for embracing policies they say have fueled the economic slide. They have criticized the stimulus package he hammered out with Democrats in Congress as insufficient and have pressed for more relief for low- and middle-income Americans.On Monday, Clinton laid out a plan in Philadelphia aimed at slowing mounting foreclosures, renewing her call for greater lender transparency and for $30 billion in assistance for individual homeowners and communities to slow the credit crunch for most Americans.

Clinton used a speech at the University of Pennsylvania to argue that the federal government should apply the same kind of resources to assist individuals as it did in bailing out investment giant Bear Stearns.

"Let's be clear: When families are losing their homes, that's also a financial crisis," Clinton said.

Aides to Obama responded by saying Clinton was simply echoing proposals their candidate offered and by accusing her of hypocrisy on the issue because she had accepted contributions from the mortgage lending industry.

Obama has offered a $10 billion relief package.

A key difference between the two Democrats is whether to cap interest rates on mortgages, as Clinton has proposed, to prevent foreclosures. Obama has opposed that approach, which critics argue could drive up rates for newer homeowners as investors pull out of mortgage lending in search of better returns.

Clinton has called for a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures on subprime-mortgaged houses in which the owners are residents.

She would also freeze subprime adjustable-rate mortgages in place for as long as five years, or until the mortgages have been converted into affordable, fixed loans.

Clinton embraced a proposal already on the table, offered by Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., and Sen. Christopher J. Dodd, D-Conn., to expand the role that the Federal Housing Administration can play in restructuring - or outright buying - at-risk mortgages. Obama is a co-sponsor of that legislation.

Clinton has lashed herself to the issue of homeowner insecurity as part of her bid for a strong finishing kick to the primary season, in which she hopes to rack up big popular-vote victories in economically struggling states such as Pennsylvania, Indiana, West Virginia and Kentucky.
Source

Buyers & Sellers: Can Your REALTOR® do this?

2008-03-24T15:10:18Z

Maybe the question shouldn't be CAN your REALTOR® do this, but WILL they? If you're selling real estate in the Tampa Bay area, you need to choose a REALTOR® who is using all the tools they have at their disposal, to get your listing sold! I say this because many may not be. It's important to choose a REALTOR® who understands real estate technology and will be able to obtain the highest exposure of your home to potential buyers.
In the Tampa area MLS, REALTORS® have the ability to setup a buyers' criteria, so that buyer receives EVERY listing from our MLS, within that buyers' specifications, as soon as it comes on the market, via e-mail. That buyer's REALTOR® just has to enter the buyers' criteria into the system and setup an account for them. The buyer also receives listings that have price reductions, if that property was previously above their set criteria, and it drops down into their price range. If you are interested in buying real estate, I would be happy to set this up for you - simply visit my page for buyers on my website and tell me about your dream home in Tampa Bay!
Have you heard those ads on the radio or TV where you can buy a list of foreclosure or short sale homes from a service? I provide a free list of Tampa Bay Short Sales & Foreclosure homes on my website. Buyers: Don't pay for information that a good Realtor® can get for you for free.
What about real estate sellers? What should you look for in a REALTOR®?
I've had many sellers call me after previously having listed their home with another real estate agent. When I ask them why they are looking for a new REALTOR®, they most common response I get is that the prior agent did nothing to market their home but put a sign in the yard and put the home on MLS. I do a lot more than put a pretty "For Sale" sign in my client's yard!
I have a background in technology and marketing. I have a custom website which syndicates with hundreds of other real estate websites for maximum exposure of your home to potential buyers. I also have a professional quality digital camera with which I take high resolution, professional looking photographs of your home. Once the pictures are done, I upload them to the Multiple Listing Service, as well as a custom virtual tour of your home. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words, so make sure your agent knows how to take great looking photos of your home and doesn't end up in the Real Estate Photos Hall of Shame! Then I put your home Realtor.com, Keller William's website, my Tampa Real Estate website and as many as 500+ other real estate related websites. Yes, you read that right. 500+. Can your agent do that?
I LOVE marketing, online and offline! I love creating beautiful real estate ad flyers showcasing your home for the infotube on your "For Sale" sign, as well as to post on the internet to Tampa Bay homebuyers. I also blog about my client's listings, posting them everywhere from Craigslist and MySpace to Realtor.com.
So in choosing a REALTOR® to represent you in buying or selling your home, consider all of these things. When you are ready, I hope to hear from you.