Weston Florida Real Estate Blog, Neal"The Real Deal"Bloom

Century Village-Deerfield Beach FL Condo's For Sale-Market Report

2010-01-28T18:02:48Z

Century Village-Deerfield Beach FL Condo's For Sale-Market Report

It is a great time to buy so come see all the Century Village Deerfield Beach FL condo's For Sale.

There are many condo's available now!

We listed and sold quite a few units in 2009. As you can see below......there is plenty of inventory available right now. We continue to keep the public informed with our automatic value check... all you have to do is open this link and get an update on what's really happening in Century Village!

Condo's for sale as of -1/2010

277 Condo's for sale-prices range from $19,900-$199,000

Current Pending sales-1/2010

76 Condo's

Condos sold over the last 6 months

164 condo's

The information listed here is deemed to be accurate, but not guaranteed.

For more information regarding condo's available in Century Village in Deerfield Beach FL

Take our virtual guided tour here>>>

You can access prior Century Village market reports >>Here

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

PEMBROKE PINES FL CONDO'S FOR RENT-CENTURY VILLAGE-NEW HAMPTON-RENTED

2010-01-10T18:12:53Z

NEAL BLOOM | KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES | (954)608-5556

13250 SW 4TH CT, Pembroke Pines, FL

2BR/2BA Condo

$925/month

Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Sq Footage	1,100
Parking	None
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$925

DESCRIPTION

READY TO MOVE IN 2BR 2 BTH UNIT WITH DIRECT GOLF COURSE VIEW...CLOSE TO CLUBHOUSE AND ALL AMMENITIES.
ASSOCIATION CLAIMS HOUSING FOR OLDER PERSONS AMMENDMENT

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Air conditioning	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Living room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Laundry area - garage	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Swimming pool	- Cable-ready	- High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking	- Clubhouse	- Laundry on-site
- Storage space(s)	- Fitness center	- Swimming pool(s)
- Tennis court(s)	- Golf course	- Gated property
- Secured entry	- Elevator	- Wheelchair access

LEASE TERMS

YEARLY
1ST MONTH
LAST MONTH
SECURITY DEPOSIT

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

(954)608-5556

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 10, 2010, 2:51pm PST

AVENTURA FL CONDO'S FOR RENT-CLIPPER AT BISCAYNE COVE

2010-01-10T17:27:03Z

NEAL BLOOM | KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES | nealb63@myacc.net | (954)608-5556

18151 NE 31 CT, Aventura, FL

1BR/1+1BA Condo

$1,200/month

Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	916
Parking	None
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$1,200

DESCRIPTION

: LIVE THE PRESTIGIOUS WILLIAMS ISLAND LIFESTYLE WITHOUT OWNING. THIS BEAUTIFUL 1 BR 1.5 BTH UNIT HAS AWESOME MULTIPLE WATER VIEWS FROM YOU PRIVATE BALCONY. THE BUILDING IS LOCATED CLOSE TO ALL MAJOR HIGHWAYS AND SHOPPING...READY FOR OCCUPANCY.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Air conditioning	- Central heat	- Family room
- Dining room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Swimming pool	- Cable-ready

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking	- Laundry on-site	- Swimming pool(s)
- Tennis court(s)	- Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

nealb63@myacc.net

(954)608-5556

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 10, 2010, 1:55pm PST

The Feeling of closure and now the feeling of joy

2009-12-28T21:04:47Z

Back in 2007 I wrote a heart wrenching story about my dogs old age and illness and then in 2008 when he finally passed I wrote an even more heart wrenching story Grieving....then Closure.

I was truly amazed at how many people read them and even to this day...I still get comments and emails sent to me.

I think I was inspired to write this when I was reading about another persons feeling of grief. They just found out their dog has cancer.

Now this post has absolutely nothing to do with Real Estate but it does have to do with life and the joy and sorrow that every day people experience. So I thought I'd write a follow up about how it ended up.

It was October 6 2009.... I just realized that one year to the day was the day I had to do a very hard thing by putting my beloved dog to sleep. I'm not going to get into the story...you can read both stories in the link above. Oh and don't worry if after you read it...you have a nervous breakdown or even shed a tear or two...its two pretty strong stories. So if you can't stomach reading it then that's your choice. From my recollection of reading all the wonderful comments...it seemed to touch people.

So now it's almost January 2010. I've been through a lot with the loss and also the reluctance to even think about getting another pet but in the end....we knew we had to get another.

Well about two months after Roscoe's passing my wife thought it would be a good idea if we would rescue a dog instead of finding one at a breeder. I thought it was a good idea. I even wrote a prior story welcoming the dog to the family...but unfortunately it didn't work out and we ended up giving the dog back...long story I'd rather forget..we only had the dog for two weeks so we never really got too attached to it...all I cared about was that the dog found a comparable place to live and a family that would love her.

A few months went by and I was thinking again...thinking of another dog. I thought I must be crazy..here I am just morning the loss of a pet I've had forever and then getting another just to have to give it back two weeks later...what was I thinking? Well after long talks and some research ...we found Cookie....she's absolutely great...we love her and she loves everyone!

She can be a bit of a handful but she's still a puppy. She'll be 1 yrs old the first week of January and I think it's safe to say she isn't going anywhere. I hope she lives a long healthy life. She has made the pain I was feeling for almost a year finally subside...Thank you.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Please tell me.....Is there mold in that home or not?

2009-12-26T14:41:11Z

I know the being in the Real Estate business for almost 14 yrs...I've seen or heard many stories about the issues in our industry.

The bottom line is that this issue has to be taken care of.

So here is my story. I took a call from an out of town owner of a few homes they listed with me. One of them was in pretty sad shape since it hasn't been lived in for quite some time. I wasn't even sure if anything worked in the place but it was nice to get one call for two listings and from someone who has never met me. This wasn't the first time this has happen so it should end up with the same ending...another listing sold.

I went to go look at them and the one that needed major renovations appeared to have had mold. When I previewed it...I suspected that there was some sort of mold there so I didn't want to have the place cleaned until I spoke to the seller about my visual findings. I suggested that the seller might want to have a mold test completed.They are from out of town so they asked me if I had dealt with any one in the past. The problem was that in all my years selling Real Estate.... I've never had a home with a mold problem.I normally do not like to refer out any inspectors or title agents if I do not have to and I only knew a general inspector and he referred me to some one else he's worked with.. Now I'm not going to get into any of the numbers. That's not my job but the results showed that there was indeed mold. The seller then agreed to use their company to remove it. I gave them the key and left them for a few days.

After the lab results were favorable.....we put the home on the market at a fair market price considering the condition of the home. Within 10 hours we sold it. We disclosed to the buyers that there was a mold issue and even said they could see the report if need be. But when they did their inspections...their inspector showed an area that apparently the other company failed to remove. They admitted the mistake and came back to fix it and took a another test. Then the buyers inspector came back apparently the next day. Their report still showed high levels or spores. So now I have one report that is considered clean and one that still shows high levels or spores.

Apparently I got lucky......"NOT"..it appears that these two inspectors had worked together in the past and didn't speak very highly of each other...in the mean time I'm stuck in the middle....my client doesn't seem too happy and I lost the deal. what a way to end the week. Mine and my clients problem is figuring out which lab reports is correct.

Mold can be a very serious thing in South Florida.With our high hot temperatures along with the rain...mold seems to cultivate very quickly in our are so it's important that if you are aware of a mold problem you should have it tested and removed if necessary.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Century Village Condo's for Sale-Deerfield Beach FL-Grantham

2009-12-15T17:34:31Z

Photo Gallery

POOL	BALCONY	GOLF COURSE
DINING AREA	GUEST BEDROOM	LIVING ROOM
FOYER	KITCHEN

Description

ONE OF THE CLOSEST BUILDINGS TO THE CLUBHOUSE...BEST LOCATION...RIGHT ON THE GOLF COURSE WITH YOUR OWN PRIVATE POOL WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE.YOU CAN'T BEAT THE PRICE TO LIVE IN GRANTHAM WHICH IS ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS BUILDINGS IN CENTURY VILLAGE.DON'T MISS THIS ONE! HANDYMAN SPECIAL BEING SOLD AS-IS WHERE-IS. EASY TO SHOW. ASSOCIATION CLAIMS HOPA

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	1
Year Built:	1975
Subdivision:	CENTURY VILLAGE/GRANTHAM
Located on Floor #:	2
Floors in Bldg:	4
Square Footage:	1200
Agent Name:	NEAL BLOON
Broker:	KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES
MLS #:	H869667

Location

246 GRANTHAM C DEERFIELD BEACH FL FL 33442

vFlyer Id: 2986273

Hallandale Beach FL Condo's For Sale- Malaga Towers-SOLD

2009-12-10T14:54:30Z

Steve Kohn & Neal Bloom | Keller Williams Properties | kohn90@bellsouth.net | (954)605-5877

1920 S OCEAN DR # 2-8C, Hallandale, FL

1BR/2BA Condo

offered at $187,000

Year Built	1975
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	4+
Parking	1 Covered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$927 per month

DESCRIPTION

WOW This gorgeous condo ,with the ocean at your feet is now available. Live in this spectacular condo with one of the best locations in South florida.This condo has it all and is immaculate. Every amenity ,Pool, Card room,excercise room,Tennis,BBQ.. everything that you can imagine awaits you.... Do not miss this one.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Living room	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking	- Guest parking	- Storage space(s)
- Swimming pool(s)	- Tennis court(s)	- Gated property
- Secured entry	- Elevator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

Steve Kohn & Neal Bloom

Keller Williams Properties

kohn90@bellsouth.net

(954)605-5877

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 10, 2009, 11:21am PST

PEMBROKE PINES FL HOMES FOR SALE-TOWNGATE

2009-11-16T19:56:28Z

Photo Gallery

Description

4BR 2.5 BATH 2 CAR GARAGE. ENJOY YOUR EVENING AND SUNSETS BY SITTING OUTSIDE ON YOUR OWN LAKEFRONT LOT. THIS IS NOT A SHORT SALE ......DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS ONE

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	2 CAR GARAGE
Year Built:	1998
Subdivision:	TOWNGATE/CANARY BAY
Lot Size:	6382
Garage Size:	2 CAR
School District:	PEMBROKE PINES
Square Footage:	2238
Agent Name:	NEAL BLOOM
Broker:	KELLER WILLIAMS
MLS #:	H868721

Location

15844 NW 16TH ST PEMBROKE PINES FL 33028

vFlyer Id: 2946915

CENTURY VILLAGE CONDO'S FOR SALE-DEERFIELD BEACH FL

2009-10-22T08:35:56Z

Links

MY BLOG

Photo Gallery

Description

1 BED / 1 BATH IN HARWOOD C.LARGE BEAUTIFUL WATERVIEW WITH SW EXPOSURE FROM YOUR SCREENED-IN PATIO.CAN BE SOLD FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED,CARPETING.ONE OF THE MOST DESIRABLE LOCATIONS IN CENTURY VILLAGE!!DIRECT VIEW OF THE LAKE.ACCORDIAN SHUTTERS ON YOUR BALCONY. NEEDS SOME UPDATING PRICED TO SELL. COMMUNITY REPRESENT HOUSING FOR OLDER PERSONS AMMENDMENT (HOPA)

Features

Bedrooms:	1
Bathrooms:	1
Parking Spaces:	1
Year Built:	1976
Subdivision:	CENTURY VILLAGE/HARWOOD C
Located on Floor #:	3
Floors in Bldg:	4
Square Footage:	950
Agent Name:	NEAL BLOOM
Broker:	KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES
MLS #:	H867471

Location

3017 HARWOOD C DEERFIELD BEACH FL 33442

vFlyer Id: 2170271

Is your head getting too big for your business?

2009-09-23T17:38:49Z

I've been a full time Realtor® for almost 14 yrs now. It's the only job I have and it's the only job I can truly say I love...even during times when the economy stinks and people are losing their jobs left and right.

But it doesn't mean that I'm not human too. There are certianly some days when I just say to myself..."Why are you still doing this?" "Why are you constantly wasting your time with all the little stuff?" All the hours of hard work and what do you have to show for it?....$100 bucks here...$100 bucks there...$1000 here and $50 bucks there."

You know why? Because I'm making money...maybe not on the same level as it once was but it's still money. For example....If I take a listing and its a rental property for a minimal fee...I might end up with $300-$400 dollars if its a small condo in a retirement community. But I look at it this way...I have a website that I use and maintain myself...for the first two years I used it...the cost was free for their standard service. This year I was told they were starting to charge a fee. It was either a total of $120 for the entire year paid monthly or I could pay it in full for $100. One I decided on the $100...within 2 weeks I received 2 email prospects looking to rent out their condo. That was a few months ago...since then I've closed 6 of them with a new one just listed last week. If you do the math then you'll see that I probably made about $1800 dollars and since these "little leads" came from the website......I've already paid for my website for the next 18ys!

Think of it this way....if you like to have a steak dinner once and while and you want to have that nice thick steak...it could cost you about $20-$50 dollars for a enjoyable cut...and then you add in the beverages and maybe even an appetiser or two...well you could probably do all that for even under $100.....so next time you think about only making $100 on a deal...think about the steak dinner!

Remember that although we are looking for more than that to survive on...you still have expenses to pay out and I've just alleviated some with this scenario. In the mean time I can concentrate on selling my higher priced listings for sale and a few buyers and or renters that might pop up in between.

It's true that I'm not doing the numbers I was doing a few years ago and in no way am I ashamed to say so...but I've had at least 1 or more of these transactions each and every month. I've even managed to become a top Lister in my office two consecutive months and I didn't even know it until they told me....but this isn't about that...it's about taking in whatever you can.

I keep hearing from some agents that laugh at me and say..."I don't waste my time with that.....I'd rather wait for the big $20,000 commission to come in." Well its' not like I'm not waiting for that either....I just feel that instead of sitting around and sulking...why not bring in some income and also maybe help some people out a long the way...no business is too big or too small for me...don't get me wrong..there are some exceptions but 90% won't be turned down by me because it might be small now but it could turn into a bigger opportunity later.

I'm sorry but I don't have a rich spouse to support me until the ship comes in ...nor do I have a Bentley parked on my driveway that needs gas every day. That's the problem with some agents these days...they are too ashamed to take the "little deals" or it might ruin their reputation....Sorry but my head isn't that big.

I know what you're going to say.....you work twice as hard and get twice as less...that might be true but in the end I'm going home with a check and possible future business. Can you honestly tell me that you think every single deal you'll do in your career will be easy? Some are hard for no money and some are easy for lots of money and vice versa. Every deal is different and we can't predict everything that's going to happen. Heck...I've got a short sale listing that's about to finally close but it's been a year and a half of many sagas and bitching and moaning and how much time and money I've lost...but you know what? When it closes...I'm going to congratulate everyone and maybe even celebrate just having the opportunity and getting to learn more about my business and dealing with different people.

One time I had a client who had me seller them a little condo for about 100K.....not a very big pay day for me but after a few years we ended up doing 8 other transactions as well as I was referred to their relative who I did three other transactions with.

All I can say is my reputation isn't that large that I would turn down most opportunities...many people forget where they came from and that's sad.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

WYNMOOR CONDO'S FOR RENT-COCONUT CREEK FL-RENTED

2009-09-22T16:51:18Z

Photo Gallery

KITCHEN	LIVING ROOM	DIN/LIVING ROOM
DINNING ROOM	MASTER BEDROOM	MASTER BEDROOM
MASTER BATHROOM

Description

LOVELY NEAT AND CLEAN RENTAL UNIT WITH A NICE PRIVATE LOCATION/IMMMEDIATE OCCUPACY,NEW APPLIANCES..TILE...CARPET AND WOOD LAMINATE FLOORS THROUGH OUT,FULLY FURNISHED AND READY TO MOVE IN. OWNER MIGHT CONSIDER SHORT TERM SEASONAL RENTAL AT A PREMIUM RATE. COMMUNITY REPRESENTS HOUSING FOR OLDER PERSONS AUTHORIZED (HOPA)

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2
Located on Floor #:	D-4
Floors in Bldg:	4
Square Footage:	1200
Parking Spaces:	1
Property Type:	CONDOMINIUM
Pets Allowed:	None
Agent Name:	NEAL BLOOM
Broker:	KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

Location

1625 N. COMMERCE PARKWAY SUITE 105 WESTON FL 33066

vFlyer Id: 2836572

Would you tell your buyers not to buy in that neighborhood?

2009-09-19T09:49:14Z

How many times have you had buyers that give you a list of some neighborhoods that they would consider to live in?

Have you ever heard of Racial Steering?

This subject is more about the consumer not wanting to go into certain areas but I want to know how agents would handle these situations.

Quite frankly....I haven't heard that term in so long that I thought it might well be extinct by now.

Sometimes a buyer isn't familiar with every neighborhood they want to inquire about and they rely on us to give them as much in detail as we can.

Some people who read this might actually disagree....

For example...A buyer might want to see homes in neighborhood X. Once you show up to see these properties they might notice that they aren't thrilled with the look of the neighborhood or they might not even like the people they see roaming around. This is a true fact. I've actually had buyers in the past tell me that they didn't think it was a safe area just from driving around. I've had buyers tell me that they didn't like the neighborhood because the location was too noisy from all the traffic they could hear on the roads. I've even had people tell me that they didn't like a neighborhood because it was too quiet. "TO QUIET?" That one actually caught me off guard but then I realized that some people might actually like to hear noise just because it made them think the neighborhood felt safer.

I just can't understand why sometimes people ask me questions that put me in an uncomfortable zone. How many of you have been approached with some of these questions?..."What type of people live here?" "I hear there are many forieghners living here" "We want to be with our own kind"......I JUST DON'T GET IT... but I guess its still alive and well out there.....even in the Real Estate industry.

But what about when you get a buyer that asks you what type of people live there? Or what the demographic make up is? How would you handle that? As Realtors®...we have to watch how we interpret that question and how we answer it...just to make sure that we don't inadvertently violate any laws. I would probably direct them to a website like The National Center for Education Statistics .... where they can actually check out school information as well as demographical data.

When a potential buyer calls me and wants to see property... I'll show them whatever they wish to see. That's just me. But I've heard that there are agents out there that still are working in the dark ages. If you ever took a class at your local board...you'll see that they give you sample videos on the do's and dont's.

There are still testers out there who look for this type of stuff.

Be sure you understand the situation at hand. Be aware of it because you care...not because you might get caught saying or doing the wrong thing.

It's still a serious issue going on in the world.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

DID YOU KNOW.. that you have the right to grieve your Real Estate Taxes?

2009-08-31T16:59:45Z

DID YOU KNOW that you're entitled to grieve your Real Estate Taxes? Yes...as the owner of Real Estate...its your legal right to challenge your real estate tax bill.

CONSIDER GRIEVING YOUR REAL ESTATE TAXES NOW....TIME IS RUNNING OUT!

This is is also going on all across the country so please check with your county for more information.

Don't let all your hard earned money go to waste...we've all been burned enough.

Don't assume that your local authorities will contact you because they won't....if you believe your assessments should be lower ... then you've got to act now!

Only a small percentage of all property owners ever try to obtain a reduction in their property assessment. "WHY?"...because they aren't aware that it's actually available to you right now. For those who do challenge their property assessment...many in South Florida are successful in obtaining sizable tax reductions using the Value Adjustment Board Petition process with assessment reductions in the millions annually.

In just the past few years, property taxes have increased at an alarming rate.

Even if tax cuts are passed by the state government...it still doesn't change the fact that you may be overassessed by your local county officials. Reducing your assessments now is the basis for lower future assessments and savings on future property taxes.

County assessment records can be inaccurate in many different ways and that includes errors in property descriptions....land and building square footage.....building condition....even simple mathematical or clerical errors.

The number 1 reason for over-assessment is.....failure by local authorities to fully recognize the sharp decreases in market value due to a steep decline in the South Florida Real Estate Market.

IMPORTANT DATES FOR DADE....BROWARD AND PALM BEACH COUNTIES.

Sept 14th 2009 -This is the deadline for filing petitions to contest the proposed assessed value of the property in Palm Beach County.

Sept 18th 2009 -This is the deadline for filing petitions to contest the proposed assessed value of the property in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.

Nov 1st 2009 -This is the date when the Revenue Collector mails the tax bills to property owners of record.

Taxe payments are due by March 1, 2010.

Most consumers who have owned home are aware that if you had an equity line of credit on your home.....most likely they''ve had their accounts frozen or suspended. It's been going on for a long time now and it doesn't seem like most people can get one. They're pretty much non-existent.

I was one of the lucky ones who didn't get theirs suspended until June 2009. The bank claimed that they informed me but I never received the letter they claimed to have sent out...I found out by checking my online account.

The reason I took out an equity line of credit on my home was only for emergency reasons...such as a need for quick cash in order to pay a bill or to use it as my operating expenses for my business. It was actually something that I didn't even know about back in 2001. I was short on cash and I was spending a lot on expenses to get my business back up and running. You see...back then I had to take a part time job just so I had enough to lay out for my marketing. I figured that once the money came rolling in from the deals I anticipated would close...I would then pay it back either monthly or all of it at once. I got a great rate...my agreement was to get prime rate minus .50 basis points. At the time I thought this was a great idea. I couldn't figure out where I was going to come up with money and now I had my answer.

After we sold our home in 2005....we paid off the last one at 60K and then when we purchase our new home...we qualified for 110K. We took it and used it as we needed it. Just like before....we paid it back. We didn't owe the bank a dime...still we had an open checkbook just in case. I know that some people used these accounts just to cash out all the equity in their homes and go on a spending spree. I was lucky not to take advantage of it and use it occasionally on some toys but I always paid it back.

A few months ago my bank informed me that they were suspending the account due to the fact that the value of my home just went down 50%! when I purchase the home ...I put down about 40%. You would think that by putting down that much that there would still be some equity in the home. Well by trying to do the right thing...we just lost a quarter of a million dollars and if we had to sell the home today...we'd still be up side down.

The bank wouldn't even consider us for a loan modification unless we start being late on our payments....why would we want to do this? Even if we refinanced...the difference in our payments would be minimal and we'd have to add back another 10K to the original loan and start back at 30 yrs.

My wife said it best....let's not use our home as a piggy bank...only for emergency reasons.

It's interesting enough that since our second mortgage is with a dfferent bank than our first.......they think our home is worth less and yet the first mortgage holder could care less as long we still are paying based on the original sales price value. Whats even more disturbing to me is that the second mortgage holder said our value was X but the county showed it a bit higher. This makes absolutely no sense to me.... so why would it make sense for the consumer?

In closing...if your banks aren't willing to help you then it's time to grieve your Real Estate taxes.

Don't let your bank or local government take all your hard-earned money.

It is every property owner's Legal right to challenge the real estate tax bill they receive.

SO NOW YOU KNOW.

If you want to learn more about the process and what you can do please visit >>>HERE

Some of the excerpts above were brought to you by www.propertytaxreductionservices.com

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

I saw the tears in her eyes... running down her face...but they were tears of joy...not sadness.

2009-08-29T10:08:42Z

Last week I went to my office to do some unfinished paperwork.

Sometimes I just like to go into the office....get some things done and also just to say hello to some of my comrades and hear the daily buzz.

So I'm standing at the front desk talking to the office assistants and I look across the room and I see this women holding up a piece of paper with what looked like a copy of a check. I wasn't looking directly at it so I really didn't pay much attention to the amount on it as that wasn't any of my business anyway. Apparently she was very happy and she was expressing her excitement about something so I asked..."may I ask why you're so happy?"My assistant cut in and said....."she's happy because she just closed her first deal!" So I inquired..."is she new?"Apparently she just started in the business 7 months ago and she finally closed her first Real Estate transaction. She was telling me it was a very difficult deal that she thought never was going to close...but in the end.....it did.

She was so happy....I told her that it actually was good to get a difficult one out of the way first because when she closes an easier deal...she'll be even more happy and excited. We discussed the deal a bit and as she was telling me a little about it...she started to cry. I asked her.... "why are you crying?.. You just closed your first deal."She told me that they were not tears of sadness...they were tears of joy. She just was so relieved that the last 7 months all came out and was more relieved than anything. I told her to go out with your family and celebrate!

I told her to keep plugging away and that she was more fortunate then many other new agents are in this day and age with all that's going on in our industry. I said "now just celebrate the success" and to also celebrate how she overcame everything to make it happen.

We now talk when we see each other and I've offered her many of my stories and she was definitely listening because she kept writing down notes.That made "me" feel good as well...that's because I was once there too....I remember a long time ago that there was this other rookie agent that once walked into a Real Estate office during the holidays and said "Hi I just got my license and I want to work here"

That was almost 14 yrs ago...and that rookie agent was me.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Why can't my buyers find a home?

2009-08-26T20:39:53Z

I'm mostly a listing agent so I don't work with many buyers these days....back when I sold Real Estate in NY...I spent more time with buyers but that was then and this is now.

I received a referral from out of state Keller Williams agent. I met with the buyers and asked them questions so I would know exactly what they were looking for. I found out that they were approved for an FHA loan. At first....they requested to see all REO's and foreclosures. Now that's fine when you're dealing with a buyer and a conventional loan but its virtually impossible for them to purchase these types of homes because of the FHA guidelines regarding inspections. I advised my clients that they have absolutely no protection and that they basically were at the mercy of the bank or holding company.

I met with them and showed them one of these properties in good faith and then I brought in an addendum with a laundry list so long it had to be printed on two pages.

I have them set up on an automatic responder that is set up to send them a link to any property that comes on the market or changes it status. I've probably sent them over 100 prospects...yet they've only had 1 choice so far and I plan on showing them the property tomorrow.

They're also are a bit antsy right now because they were hoping to take advantage of the $8,000 credit.

Any suggestions? Probably not.

I also failed to mention they also require the seller to pay some of their closing costs.

I'm willing to keep looking for them but they don't have many to chose from and I think that these types of homes are more tailored for the conventionalloan , cash buyer or an investor.

I understand the concept but with inventory levels cut in half and less normal opportunities out there......it's making it very difficult for a consumer to purchase a home in my area.

The moral to this story is if you're a consumer...ask your Realtor® these questions.....maybe they can help you.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Hollywood FL condos for sale-Canadians are coming to Hollywood Beach FL

2009-08-01T19:54:59Z

Hollywood FL condos for sale-Canadians are coming to Hollywood Beach FL

Hollywood Beach FL

Hollywood FL condos near the beach

September is the start of when our snowbirds and tourists start returning to our sunshine state. Snow fall will be forthcoming and this is the time for them to start their holiday vacations and what better than to spend it in our very warm and comfortable climate. The weather in Hollywood Beach FL has been overcast and in the 90's but in the fall it's usually comfortable and virutally less in humidity.

With such an inflated amount of condos for sale in Hollywood FL....."it is an excellent time buy a home." Prices have come down quite a bit over the last 3 years and inventory levels have reached all time highs. But there was one thing we discovered.

Inventory over the last few years has been properties that are on the verge of foreclosure ..while many others have gone the route of trying to have a Realtor® negotiate a short sale. Banks are trying to give the sellers the option of negotiating a short sale to save both parties thousands of dollars and save the owners from going into foreclosure. The biggest issue with these types of transactions is the waiting time. Most will take anywhere from 3-12 months. But don't fret...there are still some properties available that can be had without all those hassles...you just have to search for them....and finding a good agent to send you properties is the key and the Bloom and Kohn Team of Keller Williams Properties can help you with that. All you have to do is send us an email request with the property criteria search you are looking for.

As of today...the Canadian dollar exchange rate have been holding right below $1.00. That is still good news for our past,present and future clients. In general .."it is a great time to buy a home in Hollywood Beach FL." Currently..there are over 15,000 condos/townhomes on the market throughout Broward County...... about 1,400 of them are Condos/Town-homes in Hollywood FL.

Take a strol on the fully renovated board walk...stop by a restuarant or just grab a pizza.

Come visit the beach of Hollywood FL today.

You will be glad you looked at all the opportunities available.

If you are interested in moving to our area......then we strongly urge you to visit Hollywood FL-you can also preview condos for sale >>>here.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Century Village Condo's For Sale-Deerfield Beach FL

2009-07-31T10:18:56Z

Century Village Condo's For Sale-Deerfield Beach FL

It is a great time to buy so come see all the Century Village Deerfield Beach FL Condo's For Sale.

There are many condo's available now!

We continue to keep the public informed with our automatic Century Village market reports... get an on-line guided tour and see what's really happening in Century Village!

Why drive around when you can take our virtual guided tour right here!

So far in 2009... we've listed and sold 10 units as well as sold additional units that weren't our listings. We'll continue to keep the public informed with our automatic value check... get an on-line guided tour and see what's really happening in Century Village!

Recently Listed

Recently Listed

Recently Listed

Recently Listed

Recently Listed

Recently Listed

Recently Listed

Priced Low

Large Executive Model

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Weston FL Luxury Homes For Sale-The Ridges Market Report

2009-07-30T12:57:07Z

Weston Florida Luxury Real Estate Market report

Weston FL Luxury Homes for sale -The Ridges

2009 Market Report

Weston FL Luxury Homes for sale as of July 2009

23 Homes-Weston FL -The Ridges

Weston FL Luxury Homes pending as of -July 2009

20 Homes-Weston FL -The Ridges

Weston FL Luxury Homes that have closed over the last 180 days

29 Homes- Weston FL -The Ridges

Other Weston FL Related Links:

Search for Luxury Homes in Weston FL

Weston Florida Real Estate (Weston Town Center is more than just a two meal town)

Weston Florida-Residents and Visitors News

The Best News a Realtor® could get in this market...... Seeing Survey Flags!

Weston Florida Real Estate...I'm feeling kind of sexy today

Weston Florida homes go Green with Solar Pool Heating

Weston Florida Real Estate for sale (Welcome to the West Broward Family YMCA)

Country Isles/Weston Florida Municipal Parks and recreation areas.

Tequesta Trace Park / Weston Florida

Gator Run Park/Weston Florida

Heron Park /Weston Florida

Town Center Park / Weston Florida

Windmill Ranch Park/Weston Florida

Emerald Estates Park located in Weston Florida

Eagle Point/City of Weston Florida parks and recreation areas

Weston Florida Real Estate For Sale-Why wouldn't you want to move to one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Weston Florida Luxury Homes for sale-Market Report for Windmill Reserve

2009-07-30T12:24:29Z

Weston Florida Luxury Homes for sale-Market Report for Windmill Reserve

Weston FL Luxury Real Estate-Windmill Reserve

Weston FL luxury Homes-Windmill Reserve

2009 Market Report

Weston FL Homes-Windmill Reserve-for sale

11 Homes with a price range of $1,395,000 for a 4BR 4 BTH -$5,700,000 for a 7BR 8BTH 2HBTH

Weston FL Homes-Windmill Reserve- pending as of July. 2009

0 Homes

Weston FL Homes-Windmill Reserve that have closed over the last 180 Days

0 Homes

Please note that this community only has 94 custom built lots...some may still be available through the developer.

These numbers are only based on the Southeast MLS....information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Past Market reports for Windmill Reserve:

Other related links for Weston FL

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Century Village-Pembroke Pines FL Condo's For Rent-Cambridge II-Rented

2009-07-14T09:53:14Z

NEAL BLOOM | KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES | nealb63@myacc.net | (954)608-5556

1200 SW 125TH AV, Pembroke Pines, FL

1BR/1.5BA Condo

$775/month

Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,020
Parking	1 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$775

DESCRIPTION

LARGE 1 BR 1.5 BTH CONDO OVER LOOKING THE GOLF COURSE,WASHER/DRYER INSIDE UNIT. VACANT AND AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY PENDING ASSOCIATION APPROVAL. COMMUNITY REPRESENTS HOUSING FOR OLDER PERSON AMMENDMENT

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

• Air conditioning	• Central heat	• Walk-in closet
• Living room	• Breakfast nook	• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator	• Stove/Oven	• Washer
• Dryer	• Laundry area - inside	• Swimming pool
• Cable-ready	• High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Guest parking	• Laundry on-site	• Storage space(s)
• Fitness center	• Swimming pool(s)	• Tennis court(s)
• Golf course	• Gated property	• Secured entry
• Elevator

LEASE TERMS

1ST MONTH,LAST MONTH AND SECURITY DEPOSIT. CREDIT AND BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIRED AND ASSOCIATION APPROVAL UP TO 30 DAYS

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

nealb63@myacc.net

(954)608-5556

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 14, 2009, 5:22am PDT

Do you think that these might be fake listings?...How do you deal with them?

2009-07-09T07:30:45Z

How can I show your office listing if you don't know who the listing agent is?

Everyone is entitled to make a mistake..... but 4 in one day sounds a bit peculiar...doesn't it?

About week ago I received a call from one of my market reports I wrote for rentals in Weston FL.

The prospect gave me a list of what they were looking for. I then fired up the old computer to see if I could pinpoint exactly what they wanted. I came up with about 20 possible properties that they could choose from and I emailed the prospect those choices. They responded with 4 properties they wanted to see. We set up a day and time to go and preview them. All I needed to do was make a few calls and I figured that it wouldn't be a difficult task to get access into them. "NOT".

So I pick up the phone and call the first one.....we have this link available in the MLS where the listing agent can make it more convenient for the agent showing the property to simply click and get the instructions without ever having to speak to a live person. So I click on the link and set the times I was looking for. I then get an email telling me that they've only confirmed that the appointment was requested but I would still receive a call from someone with the instructions. Eight hours later....I still don't get a response. I call the listing agent and leave a message. Two hours go by and finally I get the agent on the phone and they claim they aren't even hooked up to that system. So they finally tell me that the property has a tenant in it and it cannot be showed for the time being. "WTF?" Why list it if I can't show it.

Strike one...my second choice had almost the same response...except this one had a contract on it yet the agent couldn't find the time to call me back just to tell me that it made no sense to show it.....5 hours and 3 calls later.
Strike two.....my third choice....I use that convenient link to make the appointment...I get the email response that it's not possible to show this property at the moment and that the agent would call me to discuss alternative times. Do you think I ever got a call from that agent? "NOPE" I had to call the agent to find out that there was a tenant in the property and currently they were not allowing it to be shown and that I would have to wait a few weeks for them to vacate it first....why even list it if you can show it? The funny part about it is after going through all this to make the appointment with this link...I get an email asking me for feedback! This seems to be a really flawless system...LOL!
Strike three....now this one is the best of them all...I call the listing agent at the number entered and get this long office message which eventually allows me to access that agents extension. The agent actually picks up the phone and it turns out that the agent is actually the owner/broker. He claims to have no idea who's listing it is yet his name is the primary agent with no secondary agent listed. He puts me on hold for 5 minutes and I'm sitting there listening to some dentist music and he's searching for the name of the agent. He gives me this name and connects me to that agents voice mail...but of course I can't get the line to pick up and it reverts back to their automated front desk and that beautiful dentist music. Before he made the transfer he had told me "Don't worry" if she doesn't pick up her line.... because tomorrow she'll be in at 8:30am and would be able to help me.

I call back the next morning and get my friendly little automated voice again.....I try once again to connect to this agents line...only to once again get reverted back to the operator. To my surprise...a live person picks up the phone and I tell her my problem.It turns out that she was the agent I was calling for and said it's not her listing either. She then asks me if I wouldn't mind if she calls me back after doing a bit of investigating on who this mystery agent is..finally after 2 hours I get a call with a name. By the time I was able to track it down .....the listing agent tells me there's a contract on it...."Gee Thanks!"

Are these listings real or are they just fakes?.... Why list them if you can't even show them?

If I was the clients on these properties and found out how they were dealing with the process...I'd probably fire them....if you're the consumer...would you want your Realtor® representing you this way?

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Pitchman Billy Mays Dies at 50

2009-06-28T12:58:37Z

Pitchman Billy Mays dies at his home in Florida...the man known for selling his Oxi Clean products has passed on today. He just recently launched his own TV show.

The television and music industry has lost so the many this week. I wonder what's going on?

He might not have been considered a celebrity but if you've seen him before...then you would know he has been in many commercials.

This guy could sell anything....I can't believe yet another TV personality has left us ...what a short life he had.

You can read the whole story on MSN >>HERE.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Do you walk or take the money and run?

2009-06-22T08:41:44Z

Do you walk or take the money and run?

As a licensed Realtor®...I'm always concerned about ethics...honesty and guilt. I've been selling Real Estate full time for almost 14 yrs and I've experienced 3 different markets. I've seen the good..the bad and now the ugly. But in the end when a decision has to be made...the final decision is made by your client. Whether it be the seller or the buyer...it's their call. Sure....we can advise them but we really can force them into doing anything and I like it that way. Have you ever heard the story about the Realtor who was being sued by the buyers because they felt they overpaid for a property?

When they underpay...we are worshiped and when they over pay...we are to blame. Presently...any of the active agents out there will tell you that they've recently seen many deals get held up due to appraisal issues. Even if we do the best job comping the home...the appraisers get the last word. They wouldn't jeopardize their license because they are being scrutinized more than ever. That's ok...if I was in the buyers shoes...I wouldn't want to pay more than a property is worth. Remember how we got into this mess in the first place.

But I'm primarily a listing agent and when I present an offer to the seller and the seller accepts the offer...they expect it to close for that price. Unfortunately....it doesn't happen that way all the time...and now it seems to be happening more than ever.

My last two listings that went under contract had appraisals that fell short. That's two in a row.There isn't much I could do to argue the sellers case...the appraiser uses their own comps and they really try to stay clear of our opinions nowadays. Most likely there's not much we can do...if the seller has their own independent appraisal done and it comes in at the value they expect...it still doesn't matter because the banks won't use those to support an appraisal for a buyer.

Thankfully after spending another week of tireless renegotiation....we were all able to work it out and one just closed and the other is on it's way to the table in the next few weeks.

So my question is....when the seller is in this particular position and they come to you...do you tell them to walk or to take the money and run? I hate when they put me in that position so all I can do is give them my opinion. Most agents will tell them that if they cancel the contract and try to resell it ...it might come in even lower. In my market that probably holds true. Some sellers might use the old saying.."I'll wait and try to get more when the market picks up. Picks up? I wish I knew when that was going to be but it doesn't seem like it will be anytime soon.

I think the most important thing for us as professionals to understand is we have liabilities. In the back of our minds we know what the seller should do. But we really should stray from persuade them to do what we think is best. Unfortunately...if they make the wrong choice ....it could bite them in the butt.

I've been in this situation before. The way I try to help them is by bringing them the numbers again. I might sit down and explain to them what might happen but without forcing them into a choice. Thankfully after the transaction closes...they'll come back to me and thank me. They'll check and see that although they struggled with their choice...the value went down even more later on.

Making that decision can be stressful and takes a lot of thought.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Which Realtor® are you?

2009-06-19T18:12:03Z

Which Realtor® are you?

I'd like to see which Realtor® you would consider yourself to be. Take a look at the list and I would love to hear from all of you. I'm not saying you have to be perfect or follow all of these...well maybe about 90% of them will tell you what type of an agent you claim to be.

This list comes from my past experience of the types of agents I've had the pleasure of working with and the not so pleasurable ones that make us all look bad.

I didn't itemize them so it could be operating as a listing agent or a buyers agent.

I'm all seriousness.....let's see if anyone will admit to mistakes they might have made.

Realtor® -A

Answers their phone.
Returns calls within 24 hrs or less.
Doesn't clog up their voice mail.
Follows up with their clients.
Follows up with other agents.
Has someone cover for you if you're out of town
Works the deal together no matter which side they represent.
Doesn't leave the other agent holding the bag.
Doesn't stall when things go wrong....tries to work it out.
When showing a property...they leave their card and lock the doors and put back the key where it belongs.
Takes 5 minutes to contact the listing agent if they plan on being late or cancels the showing.
When writing a purchase contract...they fill in all the information applicable to the transaction.
Sends their clients an updated analysis on a regular basis
Shows up at the inspection
Shows up at the appraisal if need
Shows up at the closing
Makes sure they have their client stay within the important time-lines of a contract.
Keeps everyone informed of any issues that might arise during the transaction.
Acts cordial and professional.
When meeting with clients...dresses professionally.
Always is on time

Realtor® -B

Never answers their phone.
Doesn't return calls.
Goes out of town with no way to contact them
Their voice mail is always full so you can't leave a message.
Their phone has a rap music ring-tone
Hardly ever follows up with their clients.
Never follows up with other agents.
Is more concerned when they'll get paid before putting their client's interest first no matter which side they represent.
Always leaves the other agent holding the bag.
Stalls and hides when things go wrong.
When showing a property...never leaves their card and leaves lights on and doors unlocked and takes the key with them.
Can't find 5 minutes to contact the listing agent if they plan on being late or cancels the showing and always blames the client.
When writing a purchase contract...they never fill in all the information applicable to the transaction and doesn't include escrow or pre-approval letters if applicable.
Does absolutely no marketing or make minimal effort to sell the property
Doesn't ever send their clients an updated market analysis on a regular basis
Never shows up at the inspection.
Never shows up at the appraisal if need be.
Doesn't even bother to show up at the closing!
Fails on behalf of their client to follow important time-lines of a contract.
Never keeps you informed of any issues that might arise during the transaction until they're approached and it's too late to remedy the issue.
Acts rude...arrogant and unprofessional.
When meeting with client's...dresses like they just came out of the gym.
Spends all their time bragging about how much they know...... but in essence really knows nothing and does nothing.
Always is late

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556

Century Village Condo's For Sale -Deerfield Beach Florida...an active adult lifestyle for residents

2009-06-18T14:00:42Z

It is a great time to buy so come see all the Century Village condo'sFor Sale. There are many condo's available now!

Century Village is located in Deerfield Beach Florida. This is just one of four different locations around South Florida. Depending on your destination you will also find complexes in Pembroke Pines,West Palm Beach,and Boca Raton.

Century Village has been leading retirement community for the last 35 years. H. Irwin Levy brought the idea to a group of investors back in 1968. He managed the project for a while...... watching it take shape and help build it into what it is today...."an active adult retirement community"

The complex is a gated community that is provided with 24 hr manned security and features a 145,000 square foot clubhouse,an 18 hole par 64 golf course,15 swimming pools,theaters featuring world class entertainment and lake-front views.

Century Village coined the phase "Now this is living!"

1BR,2BR and 3BRcondo's are available now at very affordable prices.

Condo's for sale in Century Village as of -6/2009

252 Condo's for sale-prices range from $27,000-$249,000

Current Pending sales in Century Village as of -6/2009

56 Condo's

Condos sold in Century Village over the last 90 days

124 condo's

The information listed here is deemed to be accurate, but not guaranteed.

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /Keller Williams Properties

1625 N. Commerce Parkway,Suite 105

Weston FL 33326

(954)608-5556