Michael Lee's Blog

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Chinese drywall issue still unresolved!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 16:10:01 -0700

The Wall Street Journal reported that a Federal District judge in New Orleans earlier this month ruled against Taishan Gypsum Co. Ltd. in the amount of $2.6 million in a suit filed by 7 Virginia families. There are several dozen pending cases centered around the so called "Chinese Drywall."

One of the issues in this suit and probably affecting the others is the TGC, Ltd. is owned by the Chinese government and it is not clear if they can be compelled to pay. No one representing the government has acknowledged this lawsuit or attended the proceedings.

Will Taishan pay? Everyone involved in the other suits will be waiting to see.

One of the problems here in the Tallahassee area has been lack of inspectors knowing how to check for this product. To my knowledge we have yet to have a report of this product being used in our area, but it is quite difficult to know quite frankly.

This is issue is most often being treated much like the existing polybutylene piping in the area. If it is working and has not failed (or gives off a bad odor) then it is probably okay.

This is clearly an issue that has yet to be completely clarified or resolved. Stay tuned.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Get to know Cortona Hills."

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:40:29 -0700

Tallahassee's only Net Zero Community just celebrated it's this past week with a social event. The event was catered by Piggy's BBQ from here in Tallahassee and was a great event, even though we had to battle the rain!

Cortona Hills has rolling hills and is surrounded by conservation easements. This quiet neighborhood is completely focused on being Tallahassee's premier environmentally conscience community.

Thirty, .5 acre more/less, lots are available with walk-out basements a possibility with each. All care is being taken to preserve the environment during construction with efforts to protect trees and the many wildlife that roam the area.

Cortona Hills will not be the place to live for everyone, but for those Eco-minded and desirous of the epitome in green living.

Solar panel systems were on display at the Cortona Hills get acquainted event.

Even though it rained on and off, we had a terrific night of good food with friends, all learning more about Cortona Hills and what we can all do to be more energy conscience.

We appreciate the many members of the Tallahassee Builders Association and members of the Tallahassee Board of Realtors who attended.

For more information on Cortona Hills you can go to www.cortonahills.com or give me a call at 850.339.9346.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Phone Guru to write for the TBR!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:23:54 -0800

Smart Phone guru Dick Betts, annouced at training Wednesday, March 4, 2010 that he has accepted an offer from the Tallahassee Board of Realtors (TBR)Executive Director Steven Louchheim to author an article each month on technology tips for the TBR magazine.

Betts is a well known national speaker on real estate issues with particular expertise in Search Engine Optimization, Smart and Super Phones, Website administration and social media.

Betts has spoken at the TBR for several years, has been a featured speaker for the Florida Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtor and international Realtor groups.

The Tallahassee Board of Realtors works diligently to assist it's members with the most current information regarding all issues in the real estate industry, seeking to constantly upgrade the professionalism of all members.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Dick Betts training Rocks!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:30:28 -0800

All day Wednesday and Thursday, all star Smart phone, Super Phone, PDA, SEO trainer Dick Betts is going to be in Tallahassee at the Tallahassee Board of Realtors office to share the knowledge!

This will be the Third year in a row I have attended training with Dick and all I can ever say is Dick Betts Rocks!

Today's saavy real estate buyers demand instant information and Dick helps greatly to increase one's accessiblity. Like many Realtors, working hard to keep up with your website, blog, texts, e-mails, voice mails etc. it is important to keep up with trends and to learn every trick in the book to maximize the use of these tools.

Now more than ever a Realtor must master the technology available and Dick Betts is one who can equip you. He has really helped this Tallahassee Realtor!

I will try to blog with photos from each days training. Take a look and see what happens in class!

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Whew!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:00:29 -0800

The Associated Press's Tim Paradis reported today that Federal Reserve Chair Ben Bernanke told Congress that interest rates are likely to remain low for the near future. Bernanke said, "The economy still requires support for recovery."

Many investors see these low rates as a boost to a recovery of employment and business.

This news also softened the impact of a report that housing sales hit a new low in January.

As you have read here, my greatest fear is of a return to 1970's interest rates and rampant inflation. So, for at least now, there is a sign of relief. Hopefully, this will be the course mainted. Stay tuned.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Get ready for the 1970's, Part Deaux"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 15:33:47 -0800

It was widely reported that last Thursday, the Federal Reserve raised the Discount Rate (the interest rate charged to member banks when they borrow from the Fed) from 0.50% to 0.75%. All members of the Federal Reserve banking system (12) supported the decision.

In its decision, the Fed cited "continued improvement in financial market conditions," but warned Wall Street that the increase was "not expected to lead to tighter financial conditions for households and businesses and do not signal any change in the outlook for the economy or for monetary policy."

Do you believe them?

As anyone who lived during the 1970's gas shortages and stratospheric interest rates will tell you...be careful. Personally, 18% was the worst loan utilized during this period, but others paid 20-21%. There are many economists who project that we are going to return to that type of environment. What to do? Buy the house that you will utilize as a home for the next ten years and buy it now!

You have to live somewhere, and you are paying a mortgage or paying someone else's mortgage-your landlord. Please do not misunderstand. This is no attempt at frightening up business. I truly believe that in the next 3-5 years those that have purchased homes in 2009-10 are going to be very pleased with themselves.

Disagree? What are your arguments?

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Cortona Hills, Tallahassee's Net Zero community!

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Recognize RESPA"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:42:16 -0800

If you haven't heard about RESPA, the Real Estate Settlement Act, and if you are a buyer or seller of real estate, here is what I believe is most important for you to understand: YOU CAN NOT CONTROL THE EFFECTS OF RESPA!

What do I mean? For most people the only thing they will learn about RESPA is that because of it, certain things happening will mean that the closing date will become a moving target. Is this difficult? Sometimes. Will it kill transactions? Not most. Will it be aggravating to everyone involved? Absolutely.

There is no real reason for most people to even try to understand the different disclosures and their variables or which "bucket" is which. What everyone involved in a transaction needs to understand is RESPA may rear it's ugly head and if it does, the closing date will change a few days. End of story in my opinion.

The intent of RESPA is to protect buyers and to help them make informed decisions in real estate transactions. We could argue all day whether or not RESPA will actually meet this goal, but that also does not matter. It is here, get used to it.

As a Realtor, all I want people to understand is that in any given transaction, the closing date is not a hard and fast date as before and it is to help insure an informed buyer. If something comes up that is applicable, the closing date will move a few days.

Recognize RESPA for what it is. It is one of the new facts of life, relax, embrace it, and everything will be okay.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Don't Miss out, Part II"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:26:55 -0800

For the second opportunity at the First Time Home Buyer's Tax Credit, time is really running out! If you have been thinking about utilizing the $8,000 tax credit and have heard it might be extended, don't be fooled. Hopefully you have heard about the"one in hand?" There may or may not be a renewal, but one thing is certain...YOU NEED A PLACE TO LIVE!

You may have only a month to make it happen, don't wait until April. Negotiating the price, appraisals and financing are all taking longer than in the recent past. Do not drag your feet! It is like kicking a field goal on third down in case something goes wrong, do not wait until April!

It may prove difficult, but if you ask this Tallahassee Realtor you need to get your new home under contract as soon as possible. Closing time frames have only increased and it will not be easy to get every property into contract before April 30th, but there is still time if you act today. Remind yourself of these truths...

-I do not know what the stock market is going to perform.

-I do not know what interest rates are going to do.

-I do not know how the commodities markets are going to perform.

I DO KNOW THAT I NEED SOMEWHERE TO LIVE AND THAT I WILL EITHER BE INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE FOR MYSELF OR MY LANDLORD!

Which one seems best to you. Give me a call today and get your $8,000! Together we can still make it happen.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor asks, "How are you doing with Yahoo versus Google?"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:38:25 -0800

Am I the only one having Google issues? My efforts through Active Rain and my website have yielded me a #1 ranking for my target key words, "Tallahassee Realtor" for months. My Google ranking, however, jumps all over the place. Page 1 then drops to page four, then back to two etc. etc.

Any hints or helps my Active Rain colleagues?

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Looking for a seasoned Tallahassee Realtor that knows homes in Tallahassee and the real estate market and can get the results you desire? Are you in the market to buy or sell a home in the Tallahassee, Florida area? Let me put my knowledge and experience to work for you.

Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor asks, "Are fixed mortgages the way to go?"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:14:29 -0800

The Wall Street Journal recently asked this question in an article by James Hagerty. Some of the salient points made were:

1) In other parts of the world, variable mortgage rates are the standard. Canada and the European Union are examples. A person's mortgage payment might go up if rates increase, but the financial institutions can be certain that the interest rates they pay for CD holders etc. don't exceed mortgage rates.

2) An average borrower who will live in their home for 5-7 years is protected by using a 5 or 7 year fixed rate or balloon loan.

3) Using variable mortgage products moves the risk from the bank to the homeowner. Obviously, banks are interested in this as what has transpired in the last 18 months or so, is the opposite.

4) In Denmark, mortgages are financed through the bond market rather than the securities market, where rates are less volatile.

The current reliance on the fixed mortgage product may be seriously reviewed as we move forward where many are predicting increasing defaults in 2010. It will be interesting to see where the analysis of the recent crisis leads us.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Piney Z residents should attend the CDD meeting.'

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:57:16 -0800

The next meeting of Tallahassee's Piney Z Community Development District is this coming Monday at 6 p.m. All residents are invited to attend. The Piney Z Community Development District is an actual taxing body with responsibility to payoff the bonds originally issued to start the neighborhood and to maintain the community amenities.

Piney Z has a community pool, fitness center, playground and several common areas. Taking care of these items and more is the responsibility of the CDD board.

The Piney Z neighborhood in Tallahassee has over 700 residences with three blocks of duplex townhouses and the balance in single family residences. Piney Z is a diverse neighborhood represented by a mix of retirees, government workers, private sector employees, professors and professionals. Piney Z is an excellent neighborhood for almost anyone who enjoys a suburban lifestyle that is convenient to all Tallahassee has to offer. Only 15 minutes from downtown, less than a mile from Tom Brown Park and 10 minutes from Governors Square Mall, Piney Z may be where you want to be!

Just let me know if you would like more information about Piney Z.

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Looking for a seasoned real estate professional that knows homes in Tallahassee and the real estate market and can get the results you desire? Are you in the market to buy or sell a home in the Tallahassee, Florida area? Let me put my knowledge and experience to work for you.

Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "September resales make three in a row!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:03:06 -0800

While we anxiously await October's numbers it is a good time to remember that September was our third consecutive month of increased sales over the same month last year. Will this continue in October?

We can clearly see that new construction sales continue to lag previous years' sales. The Tallahassee real estate market still has a good sized inventory of new construction homes to choose from at prices per square foot half of what was being sold in 2005-6.

It may be second quarter 2010 before we see numbers exceeding the previous year.

As mentioned, resales continue to exceed previous year results, providing some encouragement that we are beginning to see a stabilization of the Tallahassee area real estate market. Nothing to get excited about to be sure, but progress all the same.

So, we continue to have a market that is flat or still slightly declining in valuations, but sales are returning. The inventory still drives Tallahassee into a buyer's market but indications that we may be reaching some sort of equilibrium are encouraging. As long as interest rates remain near historic lows, this is still one of the best markets in which to buy in generations.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Jim Gaffigan will rock Tallahassee Friday night!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:46:57 -0700

This Friday evening at 8;00 p.m., comedian Jim Gaffigan will be appearing at the Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center. This Tallahassee Realtor will be in attendance and will be looking to see just how pale he is. Gaffigan's appearances in movies and Comedy Central have always pleased as he focuses so much of his humor on one of my favorite subjects...food!

Speaking solely for myself, I am ready for a few laughs. Hasn't this been a stressful year for nearly everyone? "Hot Pockets!" here I come...or maybe "bacon" will set the mood for the night.

So, if you are near Tallahassee this weekend, the hot ticket may not be FSU football, but, as they say, the comedic stylings of Jim Gaffigan!

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Don't gamble with your future!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:25:33 -0700

Time is really running out! If you have been thinking about utilizing the $8,000 tax credit and have heard it might be extended, don't be fooled. Hopefully you have heard about the"one in hand?" There may or may not be a renewal, but one thing is certain...YOU NEED A PLACE TO LIVE!

It will be difficult, but if you ask thisTallahasse Realtor you need to get your new home under contract this weekend. Closing time frames have only increased and it will not be easy to close before November 30th, but there is still time if you act today. Remind yourself of these truths...

-I do not know what the stock market is going to perform.

-I do not know what interest rates are going to do.

-I do not know how the commodities markets are going to perform.

I DO KNOW THAT I NEED SOMEWHERE TO LIVE AND THAT I WILL EITHER BE INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE FOR MYSELF OR MY LANDLORD!

Which one seems best to you. Give me a call today and get your $8,000! Together we can still make it happen.

*****************************************

Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahassee Realtor says, "Know the new Contract for Sale and Purchase!"

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:35:30 -0700

The Tallahassee Board of Realtors (TBR) has just made several changes to the standard real estate contracts approved by the board for use in the Tallahassee area. Many of the changes can best be described as house keeping, but several significant changes have occurred.

First, the old contract allowed 10 day periods for items like finalizing financing, home inspections, wood destroying organism (WDO) inspections etc. These have all changed to 15 days. This is terrific for home buyers and a little disconcerting for home sellers.

At this time, for all practical matters, when a contract moves to a status of contingent it is essentially off the market. There is so much inventory, most Realtors will not include contingent properties for their prospective buyers. So, now instead of sellers biting their nails for 10 days, they will have to do so for 15, this will get them down to the quick.

Likewise, do mainly to changes in the financing process, the TBR has changed to contract language to make closing 45 days from contract date. Before this the standard time was written in at 30 days.

The best change, in my opinion, is that the Buyer's Disclosure is now included in the Contract for Sale and purchase. This used to be a separate document, that many were forgetting or simply not including in the package. This is a big no-no, so having them included in the contract is outstanding.

Some of the other documents have changed as well, but that is for another blog.

If you would like to see the new Tallahassee Board of Realtors Contract for Sale and Purchase, just e-mail me to receive a sample copy.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

The Tallahasee Realtor says...this one is Perfect in Piney Z!

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:23:01 -0700

One of Tallahassee's fantastic neighborhoods is in the north east part of town...Piney Z Plantation.

This home at 813 Eagle view is on one of only two lots that are bordered on two sides by our eagle conservation area.

The home features a 14x13 master bath with his/her sinks,430 sq.ft. paved patio in back, den/study, stainless kitchen appliances,iron wrought look fence, fantastic screened porch, and much more!

There is a community pool, fitness center, lodge, playground and many common areas in Piney Z which backs up to a lake and city park.

The home has stainless steel appliances, an open floor plan, eat-in kitchen, separate dining room and even a study!

The screened porch leads out to a fabulous patio area and a large fenced back yard with plenty of room for pets or a pool!

This home sits on an about .3 acre lot, has 2093 square foot of heated and cooled space and is wonderful for entertaining.

Outdoor living is very important to Floridians and this home has terrific out door spaces.

To receive more details of this fantastic property just call me or drop me an e-mail.

This home is just Perfect in Piney Z!

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

Crawfordville Cutie! Convenient to Tallahassee and the coast

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:18:56 -0700

This home, 39 Bridlegate in Crawfordville, Florida is a wonderful place, convenient to both Tallahassee and the coast! It features three bedrooms, two baths, lovely interior all on a very large lot. There is plenty of room for a pool.

Situated in the desirable Bridle Gate subdivision, this home has what you are looking for.

This home has been loved by it's former family and misses the sounds of children playing inside or enjoying the wonderful playset in the backyard.

Don't leave this home alone for the holidays! There is still time to take advantage of the $8,000 First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit and this home qualifies for 100% financing!

Call today to schedule a showing of this adorable home. Please feel free to e-mail michael@frogrealty.net to receive more details and photos of this full featured home.

Isn't the backyard terrific?

CALL OR E-MAIL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION!

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

Tallahassee Realtor Tips-Don't make lemonade!

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:33:46 -0700

One thing this Tallahassee Realtor has learned in showing homes is how to keep that garbage disposal from stinking up the house. There is nothing worse than coming into, what someone thinks might be their prospective new home, and having it smell badly. All the great pictures, staging and paint will not help if the home stinks.

Often this problem is residue in the garbage disposal which is an easy item to take of. Urge your homeowners before every scheduled showing or open house to run some sliced lemons down the disposal. Lemons are easy for the disposal to shred and they create that fresh citrus smell everyone finds pleasing.

To make the exercise even better for your disposal, many recommend mixing ice cubes with the lemon slices. The ice cubes should actually help to sharpen the disposal's blades. This simple exercise will aid the disposal and improve the fragrance of the house in question.

This is an easy step to take and lemons are cheap! So, next time you have an open house or planned showing on one of your listings, tell your sellers not to make lemonade, but to run those lemons through the garbage disposal with some ice.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

Tallahassee Realtor Tips-Rates are improving!

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:39:08 -0700

Don't you love it when there is good news? Look at what the Mortgage Banker's Association reported today:

Mortgage applications increased last week as mortgage rates declined for the third straight week.

The Mortgage Bankers Association weekly index rose 16.4 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis compared to the previous week. And was up 38.4 percent compared to the same week last year.

The unadjusted purchase index increased 12.9 percent compared to the previous week and was 2.2 percent lower than it was a year ago.

The refinance index increased 18.2 percent and was at its highest level since mid-May.

Thirty- and 15-year mortgage rates were well below 5 percent:

30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.89 percent from 4.94 percent.
15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.32 percent from 4.34 percent.
1-year ARMs increased to 6.56 percent from 6.40 percent.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (10/07/2009)

Buyer's need to get into gear before the $8,000 tax credit expires, take advantage of these amazing rates and buy their new home!

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

TOP 10 LIST before you start looking for new home - by Bo Kociuba, Yukon Realtor, www.OkRealEstateSearch.com

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:40:49 -0700

This is a great post and sure to help many people considering a home purchase. Thanks to Bo Kociuba!

Via Bo Kociuba (Keller Williams Realty-Yukon, OK):

TOP 10 LIST BEFORE YOU START LOOKING FOR NEW HOME...

Do an honest evaluation of your income...how much of a payment can you afford. The basic rule is to not exceed 31% of your gross income

Make sure that all of your monthly bills are paid on time

Revolving accounts need to be below 25% of the current high limit. Most people do not realize the credit bureau deducts for charging too much on your card

Locate your last two years tax returns and W-2's ... you can not do a loan without them

Locate your last two months bank account statements. We must prove you have the assets to close your loan

Locate a full 30 days of pay stubs...If you are paid every two weeks, you will need 3 stubs..Your name and year to date income must show

Get a Pre-Approval from a reputable lender...They will evaluate your credit and income and give you a maximum payment

Work with a Realtor ... They will help guide you through the lending process as well as the home purchase... VERY IMPORTANT!!!

Put together files with all your important communications from your lender...do not trust your memory!!!

Never rush into anything...Make sure you have the assets and income to support your purchase! (after all it is nice to afford football tickets and have life than overextending yourself for 'four walls')

Let me know if I can help you with your new home journey...

With smiles,

Bo in Yukon

Search for your new home at www.OkRealEstateSearch.com

Tallahassee Board of Realtors supports Habitat for Humanity

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:19:23 -0700

The Tallahassee Board of Realtors, as part of our ongoing mission to not only being the premier professional real estate organization in the state, but to making important contributions to the greater Tallahassee area community is once again building a Habitat for Humanity home. As part of that effort we are raising funds by sponsoring a concert by local country recording artist Jason Byrd.

Come on out for a fun evening and help us help Tallahassee! Information on the concert is as follows:

	Habitat Concert: Jason Byrd
	Habitat Concert: Jason Byrd To Benefit the Habitat for Humanity REALTORS Build Friday, November 6 at The Moon Doors open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 7:45 p.m. Reserved Seating: $30 General Admission: $15 Student Tickets: $10 Tickets: The Moon, 1105 Lafayette Street, 850-222-6666, www.moonevents.com VIP Tickets: $300. Limited stage seats, only 18 tables that seat 6. Front row, hors d'oeuvres in the VIP room, picture with Jason Byrd, each table receives 1 complimentary CD. Contact Christy O'Connell at 224-7713 for more information. Jason's new CD will be on sale for $15 (for each CD sold, he'll donate $5 to Habitat). If you're unable to attend and would still like to donate, please send contributions to: Habitat for Humanity c/o Tallahassee Board of REALTORS 1029 Thomasville Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32303 All net proceeds will go to Habitat for Humanity

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

Tallahassee Realtor Tips-Avoid the coming draft!

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:22:51 -0700

Any fall home maintenance plan should include checking for leaky doors and windows. On of the simplest ways to do this is to hold a burning candle or lighter around the window or door frames to see if the flame moves. A flickering flame indicates a draft, which equals energy loss.

Usually, applying some caulk will do the trick or you can use one of the may sealing kits available at your favorite home improvement store. Some of these are applied to the outside of a window. Some are heat shrunk with a hair dryer to create the seal.

Doors that are going to be used can not be caulked, obviously, and require different treatment. Installing a new door sweep or one of the popular AS SEEN ON TV door guards might do the trick. Many use a towel or bean bag animal pressed against the bottom of a door to stave off the draft.

If your draft is a large enough problem, it may be time to consider energy star windows. Rebates often are available with these products. The energy savings over the life of a window can be dramatic. To be certain you are buying an Energy Star window or door:

All ENERGY STAR window, door, and skylight manufacturer partners offer products that meet the ENERGY STAR criteria. The key is to specifically ask for this type of window or door.

Windows, doors, and skylights should display an official ENERGY STAR label or equivalent custom label. There are a variety of custom labels, but all should include the same elements as the official label:

The ENERGY STAR Certification Mark
A map showing where the product is qualified
A qualification statement

Various tax credits apply when improving your home in this way. Everyone is coming to understand the importance of energy savings. Without question, investing in energy saving windows and doors improves the value of your home.

Regardless of whether or not you need new windows. Take time this fall to avoid the draft, check your windows and doors. Sealing or replacing them will save you time and money this fall and make your home more comfortable.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

COMING SOON! CORTONA HILLS

Tips from a Tallahassee Realtor-Don't forget to obtain your homestead exemption!

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:46:38 -0700

Homestead exemption.

It is one of the things mentioned at every closing table here in Tallahassee and probably at nearly every closing table in the country. It is also one of those things that people forget to take care of causing them to pay higher taxes than necessary year in and year out.

Most, if not all counties, like Leon County here in north Florida, which includes Tallahassee, provide some tax relief to all residential properties that are occupied by the owner or homesteaded. The homestead concept is on of the oldest concepts in privately owned real estate.

Homeowners learn on MyFlorida.com what options there are:

The following is a general list of exemptions available in Florida.

When to File: Generally, initial application for property tax exemption must be made between January 1 and March 1 of the year for which the exemption is sought.

Exemption
Description

Homestead Exemption Up To $50,000

Every person who owns and resides on real property in Florida on January 1 and makes the property their permanent residence is eligible to receive a homestead exemption up to $50,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes, including school district taxes. The additional exemption up to $25,000, applies to the assessed value between $50,000 and $75,000 and only to non-school taxes.

If one spouse holds the title, the other spouse may file for the exemption with the consent of the titleholder.

If filing for the first time, be prepared to answer these questions:

In whose name or names was the title to the dwelling recorded as of January 1?

What is the street address of the property?

How long have you been a legal resident of the State of Florida? (A Declaration of Domicile or Voter's Registration will be proof of date before January 1.)

Do you have a Florida license plate on your car and a Florida driver's license?

Were you living in the dwelling on January 1?

$500 Widow's and Widower's Exemption

Any widow or widower who is a Florida resident may claim this exemption. On remarriage, the widow or widower is ineligible for the exemption. A person who is divorced before the spouse's death is not considered a widow or widower.

$500 Disability Exemption

A Florida resident who is totally and permanently disabled may qualify for this exemption.

$5,000 Disability Exemption for Ex-Service Member

An ex-service member disabled at least 10% in war or by service-connected misfortune may be entitled to a $5,000 exemption on any property owned by the ex-service member.

$500 Exemption for Blind Persons

A Florida resident who is blind may qualify for this exemption. If claiming exemption based on blindness, the applicant must have a certificate of blindness issued by the Division of Blind Services of the Department of Education, the Federal Social Security Administration, or the Veteran's Administration.

Service Connected Total and Permanent Disability Exemption

An honorably discharged veteran with service-connected total and permanent disability may qualify for total exemption of homesteaded real estate used and owned as a homestead, less any portion used for commercial purposes. An existing exemption can be transferred to a new qualifying residence.

Under certain circumstances the benefit of this exemption can carry over to the surviving spouse.

If filing for the first time, bring proof of your service connected disability: such as, a letter from the United States Veterans' Administration.

Exemption for Totally and Permanently Disabled Persons

1.Real estate used and owned as a homestead by a quadriplegic, less any portion used for commercial purposes, is exempt from taxation.

2.Real estate used and owned as a homestead, less any portion used for commercial purposes, by a paraplegic, hemiplegic, or other totally and permanently disabled person, who must use a wheelchair for mobility or who is legally blind, is exempt from taxation.

A person seeking exemption under number 2 above must meet gross income limitations. Gross income includes veterans' and social security benefits. The gross income of all persons residing in the homestead for the prior year cannot exceed $14,500. However, beginning January 1, 1991, the $14,500 limitation will be adjusted annually. The adjustment will be based on the percentage change in the average cost-of-living index of the immediate year compared with the prior year.

If filing for the first time, a certificate of total and permanent disability from two (2) licensed doctors of this state or from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs is required. For the legally blind, one of the two certificates may be from a licensed optometrist of this state.

Additional Homestead Exemption for Persons 65 and Older

State law allows a city or county government to enact a local ordinance allowing an additional homestead exemption amount, up to $50,000, to any person who has legal or equitable title to real estate on which they make their permanent residence.

In order to apply for and receive this local option homestead exemption, the applicant's income may not exceed $24,289.00 as of January 1, 2008. The income limitation was established at $20,000 in 2001. The figure is adjusted annually, on January 1, according to percentage changes in the average cost-of-living index. The cost-of-living index is the national average of the monthly consumer-price-index figure for the period of January 1 through December 31. It compares the prior year with the year before it and is issued by the United States Department of Labor.

The income limitation for 2009 will be posted to the Department's website as soon as the new figures become available.

See the list of counties and municipalities that offer additional homestead exemption for persons 65 and older.

Homestead Property Tax Discount For Veterans Age 65 and Older With a Combat Related Disability

This amendment provides a property tax discount on homestead property owned by eligible veterans. To be eligible, a veteran must have an honorable discharge from military service, be at least 65 years old, be partially disabled with a permanent service connected disability, all or a portion of which must be combat-related, and must have been a Florida resident at the time of entering military service.

Homestead Tax Deferral

A person who is entitled to claim homestead tax exemption may elect to defer payment of part of the combined total taxes. The combined total includes property taxes and any non-ad valorem assessments that would be covered by a tax certificate sold by the tax collector. An annual application for tax deferral should be filed with the county tax collector onor before January 31, following the year in which the taxes and non-ad valorem assessments are assessed. Approval of an application for tax deferral will defer the portion of property tax that exceeds 5 percent of the applicant's household income for the prior year. If household income for the prior year is less than $10,000, all ad valorem taxes plus non-ad valorem assessments will be deferred.

A permanent resident of Florida 65 years old or older may defer that portion of the tax that exceeds 3 percent of the applicant's household income for the previous year. If any applicant's household income for the prior calendar year is less than $10,000, or is less than the amount of the household income designated for the additional homestead exemption pursuant to s. 196.075, F.S. and the applicant is 65 years of age or older, approval of the application shall defer the ad valorem taxes plus non-ad valorem assessments in their entirety.

For additional information as to the number of years, total amounts that may be deferred, and interest on deferred taxes, contact the local tax collector.

Installment Payment of Property Taxes

Taxpayers who want to prepay property taxes on the installment plan should file an application with the tax collector by May 1 of the year in which the taxes are assessed. After submission of an initial application, a taxpayer is not required to submit annual applications as long as he continues to elect to prepay taxes by installments. For additional information as to discounts and payment dates, contact the local county tax collector. Effective January 1, 1993, county tax collectors may accept an installment payment of property tax on the next business day following the due date, if the last day for payment falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday.

Personal Property
For purposes of property taxation, personal property is divided into these categories:

Tangible Personal Property - All goods, chattels, and other articles of value capable of manual possession whose chief value is intrinsic to the article itself. "Inventory" and "Household Goods" are expressly excluded from this definition.

Household Goods - Apparel, furniture, appliances, and other items usually found in the home and used for the comfort of the owner and family. Household goods are exempt from property taxation.

Inventory - Items of inventory are exempt from property taxation. Inventory generally means goods, wares, and merchandise held by a business for sale.

Some items of personal property are not taxable, for example, licensed motor vehicles, boats, airplanes, trailers, trailer coaches, and certain mobile homes as defined by law.

Taxable items are assessed at just value based on an annual return that must be filed by April 1 with the county property appraiser. The year of purchase, original cost, and the taxpayer's estimate of just value is required on the return. The property appraiser has the duty to discover omissions and to place value upon personal property.

The amount of tax due is calculated by multiplying the value of the property by the tax rate set by the taxing authorities. The tax bill is mailed to the taxpayer, usually by November 1.

The payment must be made to the tax collector by April 1 of the following year. There are specific discounts allowed for early payment and penalties for delinquency, failure to file, and for unlisted property.

If you are looking for information on the $25,000 tangible personal property exemption, see the Frequently Asked Questions for Amendment 1 Implementation.

For more information about property taxes, contact your county property appraiser or tax collector.

Residents of Leon County can apply by going to the Leon County Property Appraiser's website at http://www.co.leon.fl.us/propappr/documents/Homestead%20Exemption%20Application%20Instructions.pdf for the application form and more information.

Don't pay more taxes than required. Be sure you file for the Homestead Exemption.

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Looking for a Tallahassee Realtor? Are you searching for a seasoned real estate professional that knows homes in Tallahassee and the real estate market and can get the results you desire? Are you in the market to buy or sell a home in the Tallahassee, Florida area? Let me put my knowledge and experience to work for you.

My goal is to help people find the best home for the best price with the most protection and least amount of stress possible. If this sounds like what you want, please allow me the opportunity to earn the right to serve your real estate needs. Call me, Michael Lee today at (850) 339-9346.

Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist

Michael@frogrealty.net

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Tips from a Tallahassee Realtor-Get Out of the Gutter!

Michael Lee (Frog Realty) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:58:11 -0700

That is right! Get that stuff out of your gutter or gutters as the case may be.

Maintaining gutters is not difficult, but too often ignored. We can face the facts, cleaning gutters is not high on the fun task list. Not too sexy. It is, however, important to your home.

One of the first things to do is to remove all debris that can slow the ability of water to drain effectively from the roof. Trapped water can be destructive not only to the gutters themselves but to the adjoining roof as well. Remember, water is a corrosive-think of the Grand Canyon and then consider what water can do to your shingles.

This same principle applies to how your gutters drain. All the gutters in the world will not help if they incorrectly drain. Make sure gutter water drains away from your home. Water must always be moved away from a house.

There are over a dozen materials from which to choose if you are replacing gutters. Choose a professional. Yes, even in the non-sexy world of gutters, you need a pro to choose the right type for your home. Handy folks like to purchase and install their own gutters and if you are so inclined, have at it. But do not think that the lowly gutter is an unimportant part of your home. That would be a mistake.

All of us would be doing our homes a favor if we maintained our gutters better. So, next time someone says, "get your mind out of the gutter," respond by saying, "Did you know there are over a dozen material choices possible for gutters?" People will be impressed...or not.

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Michael Lee

Tallahassee Realtor

Homes in Tallahassee

Piney Z Specialist