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

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

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:30:45 -0500

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

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 12:58:37 -0500

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?

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:41:44 -0500

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?

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:12:03 -0500

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

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:00:42 -0500

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

South Florida Homes Are Still Selling Despite Rising Mortgage Rates

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:35:56 -0500

South Florida Homes Still Selling Despite Rising Mortgage Rates

Despite interest rates rising almost 1% over the last month...homes are still selling in the South Florida area.

Buyers monthly payments are going up but because of lower asking prices.....it hasn't hurt our housing market.

The median price of a home in Palm Beach County was $223,000 last month which is down from the $380,000 price two years ago. In Broward County median home sales price of $364,000 two years ago to $180,000 in May. The number of homes sold has increased for 10 consecutive months.

I think this is happening due to the decrease in inventory I'm seeing in most cities. Also because many homes that have foreclosed are being held by the banks before they would consider re-packaging them and putting them back on the market.

You can read the entire story >>> 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

Weston FL Homes for sale -June 2009 Market Report

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 13:43:18 -0500

Weston FL Homes for sale

Since the beginning of 2009...I've noticed that the inventory levels in Weston have dropped dramatically...maybe not as low as they were 5 yrs ago but a major turn that anyone would notice. This seems to be a trend going on in other cities as well.

So why is happening? Most likely its occurring due to many homes owners who have taken their homes off the market. This type of homeowner is someone who really doesn't need to sell. Then you have your foreclosures...short sales and REO properties. It seems that some banks are holding off putting these properties on the market. Apparently by waiting and then repackaging them later might help the Real Estate market recover.

2009 Market Report

Weston FL Homes for sale as of June 2009

796 Homes-Weston FL

Weston FL Homes pending as of -June 2009

364 Homes-Weston FL

Weston FL Homes that have closed over the last 90 days

277 Homes- Weston FL

Other Weston FL Related Links:

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

My Short Sale is approved for the third time...now the sellers backed out!

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:03:29 -0500

My Short Sale is approved for the third time...now the sellers backed out!

It seems like I'm always putting out fires but I guess that's the business we choose.

You might ask how this is possible? I had this short sale that I've worked on for probably 7 months. The first two times the bank approved the deal in writing but both times the buyers couldn't get qualified. We were told twice that the buyers were approved by their lender and even showed proof of funds but they still couldn't get it closed....that's another story.

This time we get another buyer and throughout the process I felt pretty confident that this one would make it. The Realtor and the buyer and the lender were all willing to cooperate and supply any updates to us.

We were told by the lender that we would get the approval within 4-5 weeks which we did. And then the nightmare started. This transaction was an FHA loan and the seller needed to execute a required document that I had sent after the contract was executed. I was calling them almost everyday letting them know that the lender required it back fully executed but my clients (The Sellers) weren't returning my calls!

That got me a bit concerned but I kept trying. Maybe there was a family emergency and someone was sick or maybe someone even died and I figured they just didn't want to deal with it so I waited another week. I finally was anticipating the approval any day so I picked up the phone on a Saturday and blocked my phone number just to see if they were avoiding me. Well of course when I called...they picked up the call!

It turns out that they've decided to file bankruptcy because they are worried about the tax implications. They said they don't fall under the law that usually protects you if that property is their primary home.

They had originally lived there for 2-3 yrs yet they feel they don't fall under those dates. As of a week ago.... the buyers are now going to take legal action and sue for specific performance. I doubt they'll win...after all....the first lien holder gets anything awarded and if there's anything left .....it probably won't be much of anything. They want to close and they're ready.....willing and able.

I'm not sure what type of legal advice they're getting but I just hope they know what they're doing.

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

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 19:54:33 -0500

NEAL BLOOM | KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES | 954 608 5556

1024 BERKSHIRE B, Deerfield Beach, FL

1BR/1.5BA Condo

offered at $59,000

Year Built	1976
Sq Footage	Unspecified
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$210 per month

DESCRIPTION

FULLY RENOVATED 1 BR 1.5 BTH READY TO MOVE IN ....JUST BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH...UNIT HAS BEEN TOTALLY REDONE.NEW CERAMIC TILE THROUGHOUT.NEW APPLIANCES,NEW KITCHEN CABS,COUNTERTOP AND LIGHTING. FIRST FLOOR HIGH RISE BUILDING WITH POOL VIEW .WITH-IN WALKING DISTANCE TO WORSHIP.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave

COMMUNITY FEATURES

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

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

954 608 5556

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 8, 2009, 4:46pm PDT

Weston FL Luxury Homes For Sale-The Ridges Market Report

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:10:36 -0500

Weston Florida Luxury Real Estate Market

Weston FL Luxury Homes for sale -The Ridges

2009 Market Report

Weston FL Luxury Homes for sale as of May 2009

24 Homes-Weston FL -The Ridges

Weston FL Luxury Homes pending as of -May 2009

24 Homes-Weston FL -The Ridges

Weston FL Luxury Homes that have closed over the last 90 days

13 Homes- Weston FL -The Ridges

Other Weston FL Related Links:

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

Homes For Rent in Pembroke Pines FL-Towngate-Cedar Way

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sat, 23 May 2009 19:25:48 -0500

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

2195 NW 158TH AVE, Pembroke Pines, FL

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

$2,000/month

Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,902
Parking	None
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$6,000

DESCRIPTION

3 BR 2.5 BTH HOME LOCATED ON A REALLY NICE LAKEFRONT LOT,GREAT SUNSETS,ROOM FOR A POOL,UPGRADED KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTER TOP AND UNDERMOUNT SINK,BEVILED KITCHEN CABINETS,WHIRPOOL APPLIANCES,CROWN MOLDING,CERAMIC TILES DOWN-STAIRS,NEW BERBER CARPETING UPSTAIRS,MANY DIFFERENT FRUIT TREES,EASY TO SHOW.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

Air conditioning	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Attic
Washer	Dryer	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard	Cable-ready	High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)
Lake	Gated property	Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS

(954)608-5556

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 23, 2009, 4:10pm PDT

Townhomes for sale in Boynton Beach FL-Monterey Bay- Monterey Lakes

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sat, 23 May 2009 18:48:03 -0500

NEAL BLOOM | Keller Williams | (954)608-5556

258 LAKE MONTEREY CIRCLE, Boynton Beach, FL

3BR/2.5BA Condo

offered at $199,000

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	1,536
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$129 per month

DESCRIPTION

BUILT IN 2006. THIS 3 BR 2.5 BTH TOWNHOME HAS DARK WOOD KITCHEN CABINETS WITH GRANITE COUNTER TOP...BREAKFAT AREA ..UPGRADED APPLIANCES BATHS.CERAMIC TILE AND CARPETING. LOCATED IN THE HEART OF BOYNTON BEACH.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking

Storage space(s)

Swimming pool(s)

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

Keller Williams

(954)608-5556

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 23, 2009, 2:26pm PDT

How can the market value of a home in Florida go up $30,000 dollars in 5 weeks?

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sat, 16 May 2009 12:33:37 -0500

How can the market value of a home go up $30,000 dollars in 5 weeks?

And after I thought I've seen it all...then this.

Well I'll tell you how it happened. I've had this listing for about 9 months now. It's a short sale and I've had 2 contracts on it but every-time we get down to the end....the buyers can't close because their lender declined the loan. This is a very annoying thing to have to go through. Way back when I was approached by the home owners to take this listing...I was very reluctant to do so.

It's unlike me to put an appointment off but I did it based on the information I was given by them over the phone with my initial consultation. They were now living 3.5 hours away from the subject property and wanted to meet with me there to have me list it and sell it short. At the time.....I had a handful of listings that were short sales and wasn't too sure this one would fly based on what they were telling me over the phone. They were begging me to take the listing even after I told them how the process worked so... in the end....I decided to meet with them.

From what they told me over the phone...they were already 4 months behind in their payments. When I showed up at the house...it turned out that they were really 6 months behind. I explained to them that they would most likely be receiving a summary judgment from the court. Once I mentioned this to them .....they whipped it out and it said they had 20 days to respond. The trouble was that they had been holding it for 10 days. I told them that they needed to hire an attorney to go ask the judge for an extension. They claimed not to have any money and asked we what they could do. I told them to go down to the court house first thing Monday morning and ask the clerk how to fill out the extension and submit it and then to notify the attorney that was suing them. They did this and apparently they were granted more than the normal 60 days.

After the first deal fell through....the lender allowed us to get another contract within 30 days before they would have to kick it out of the short sale department. The good thing was we now had an approved price in writing. I explained to the agent with the next offer that this was the price the bank would take and not to waste time submitting anything else. They submitted the offer and the deal died once again due to false information. They claimed that the buyer was fully qualified and showed us proof of funds...then in the end....their loan was declined.

Once again I had an approved short sale in writing and no contract. The negotiator was nice enough to give us another 30 days to get in a contract. This time we had one within one week but it had to be submitted to the workout department and would take up to 4 weeks to be re-approved.

2 weeks went by and I received a call from the negotiator letting me know that the file was submitted but since the property had sat for a while they required a new BPO to be done and would contact me for access into the property. After a total of 5 weeks and endless calls asking the status of this deal...I received an email from the negotiator....they said that they got back the BPO and that the investor said that based on the properties current value.....they now wanted $30,000 more and that I should ask for a counter from the buyer and they needed an answer within 3 business days. I was like....WHAT?

Holy Crapola...Batman!

How can a property value go up $30K in 5 weeks? It's virtually impossible for this to happen in a market like this along with the fact that this property had damage and was not in move in condition.

I called the negotiator and asked how they were able to justify this especially when they never had anyone call me for access into the property. I questioned them on how they did their BPO without actually seeing the inside. I also informed them that the buyer submitted a loan qualification letter that stated that they were only approved up to their purchase price that they submitted and that if they knew the lender wanted more then they wouldn't have searched for a home in that price range......They wouldn't have ever qualified for the higher price.

Why would I represent one price and then have to ask the buyer for more? If I knew this then I would have raised the price and informed everyone from the beginning.

I asked them to give me the opportunity to submit my own com-parables along with photos of the inside to prove my case. The negotiator appreciated that but said they didn't need them at this time.

They said they would resubmit it to the investor and let me know. The next day they said that the only issue the investor had was that the first page of the contract showed the purchase price as illegible and could I resent them another copy. I was then expecting them to approve it at the original price agreed at.

The funny thing is that they never acknowledged how they came up with a price increase in the first place.

Hopefully they'll reconsider our position.

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

DAVIE FL REAL ESTATE FOR SALE-ROLLING HILLS GOLF AND TENNIS CLUB

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Wed, 13 May 2009 13:44:41 -0500

Photo Gallery

KITCHEN	KITCHEN	LIVING ROOM
MASTER BATH	FORMAL DINING ROOM	FAMILY ROOM
MASTER BEDROOM	POOL AND JACUZZI

Description

BEAUTIFUL DETAILED 4 BR 4BTH HOME FEATURING WOOD FAMILY ROOM WITH BUILT-IN DESIGNER COLUMNS,MULTIPLE FRENCH DRS,CROWN MOLDING,CUSTOM LIGHTING, SURROUND SOUND.DARK WOOD KITCHEN CABINETS,DUAL WALL OVEN, STAINLESS STEEL HOOD.LARGE MSTRSUITE WITH 2 WALK-IN CLOSETS,ACCESS TO POOL,JACUZZI, HIGH END CABINETS W/ MARBLE TOP,DRAPES STAY WITH HOME.FREEFORM POOL & SPA & WATERFALL.POOL HEATER SOLD AS-IS,ENJOY A BEAUTIFUL LAKE VIEW RIGHT ON YOUR POOL DECK,CLOSE TO NOVA UNIVERSITY UPSCALE GOLFCOURSE COMMUNTIY! THE ORIGINAL MOVIE CADDYSHACK WAS FILMED THERE

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	4
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2003
Subdivision:	ROLLING HILLS GOLF AND TENNIS CLUB
Lot Size:	11,688
Garage Size:	3 CAR GARAGE
School District:	DAVIE
Square Footage:	2799
Agent Name:	NEAL BLOOM
Broker:	KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES
MLS #:	H861634

Location

3743 W LAKE ESTATES DR DAVIE FL 33328

vFlyer Id: 2499186

Homes for Sale in Pembroke Pines FL-Towngate

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:47:01 -0500

Links

Neal Bloom

Photo Gallery

KITCHEN	KITCHEN	LIVING ROOM
DINNING ROOM	MASTER BATH	SCREEN/PATIO
FAMILY ROOM	MASTER BEDROOM

Description

LARGE 4BR 2.5 BTH PLUS SITTING ROOM THAT CAN BE EASILY CONVERTED INTO A 5TH BR,(PLEASE SEE FLOOR PLAN)3 CAR GARAGE,CERAMIC TILE AND CARPETING,SCREENED IN PATIO,NEW APPLIANCES,PRICE RIGHT...READY TO SELL

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	3
Year Built:	1996
Subdivision:	CLASSIC VISTA
Lot Size:	5,440
Garage Size:	3 CAR
School District:	PEMBROKE PINES
Square Footage:	2844
Agent Name:	NEAL BLOOM
Broker:	KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES
MLS #:	H861138

Location

15727 NW 11TH ST PEMBROKE PINES FL 33028

vFlyer Id: 2456734

U.S. foreclosure filings? The party is over....again!

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 07:22:01 -0500

Interesting article that I found today on my Yahoo news alerts. The actual article is through Reuters news wire. It talks about the temporary moratoriums on failing mortgages and or the properties that were headed into foreclosure.

I guess you would have to call this a short grace period but the party is over now. I'm not sure what affect this really has other than being a band-aid...well now the wounds are going to open again and the bleeding will continue.

If you want to read the entire article ...you can find it >>>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

Plantation FL Condo's For Sale-Belasera

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:01:42 -0500

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

711 N PINE ISLAND RD # 217, Plantation, FL

1BR/1.5BA Condo

offered at $99,000

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	800
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	4
Parking	2
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$235 per month

DESCRIPTION

THIS IS NOT A SHORT SALE....ONE OF THE BEST UNITS IN COMPLEX OVERLOOKING POOL AND LAKE...TONS OF UPGRADES...KITCHEN STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES...CERAMIC TILE THROUGHOUTBEST VIEW IN THE COMMUNITY...SHOWS LIKE A MODEL...BRING US AN OFFER

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Family room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Stainless steel appliances	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Laundry on-site
Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)	Lake

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

(954)608-5556

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 15, 2009, 7:45am PDT

Pembroke Pines FL Homes For Rent-Towngate

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 11:54:03 -0500

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

206 NW 152ND AVE, Pembroke Pines, FL

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

$1,750/month

Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,709
Parking	2 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$1,850

DESCRIPTION

IMMACULATELY CLEAN AND FRESHLY PAINTED 3 BR 2.5 BTH READY TO MOVE IN IMMEDIATELY. PRIVATE BACKYARD WITH STAMPED CONCRETE PATIO.ACCORDION HURRICANE SHUTTERS.LARGE WINDOWS.PLENTY OF CLOSET SPACE,WALK IN CLOSETS IN MASTER BEDROOM,MASTER BTH WITH DUAL SINKS,SEPARATE TUB AND SHOWER,CLOSE TO ALL SHOPPING AND ALL MAJOR HIGHWAYS,ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LOCATED WITH-IN THE COMMUNITY.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

Air conditioning	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Attic
Washer	Dryer	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard	Cable-ready	High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Guest parking	Clubhouse
Storage space(s)	Swimming pool(s)	Tennis court(s)
Playground	Gated property	Secured entry

LEASE TERMS

1YR

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior front	Kitchen
Living Room	Yard
Master Bth	Family Room

Contact info:

NEAL BLOOM

KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES

(954)608-5556

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 14, 2009, 8:34am PDT

Too Cute Tuesday

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 07:30:05 -0500

Recently we had our new pup over at the groomer. She is now 13 weeks old and she has been to the Vet for her booster shots. She has a few more visits. Once they give her the rabies shot...shell be ready for puppy training. Although we have been training her....she'll need additional training later.

I thought it would be nice to show you how she looks since we got her....early on she looked more like a small black tumble weed or a small black ball of hair. Now after getting her a nice shave and a hair cut...you can see how hearty and cute she is and she still only hale the size she'll be when she's full grown.

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 Hate Moving!

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 16:29:12 -0500

I've been in the Real Estate business for about 14 yrs now and it all started back in the mid 90's in NY.

I worked my way up and felt my bumps a long the way. Sometimes even now I'll feel those bumps but that's just a part of the business you'll have to expect because it isn't always rosy. Sometimes new agents will ask me why it's so difficult to deal with different types of people. I just tell them that if they don't have thick skin then they might want to reconsider their career. This isn't a business for everyone. It seems when everyone is making money...you'll start to see more people become Real Estate agents.

They think it's always easy and there is lots of money to be made. I'll agree that it can be easy most of the time but not all of the time. There is feast and there is famine.

I'm always asked...when you go into the business.. how do you decide which company to work for?

Every company offers you something different. Different fees...different commission splits...different tools to use. Companies will offer you different things depending on your reputation but it's not always easy to decide which one is a good fit.

I don't mind change but I don't like to keep switching companies. I've only been with 4 different companies in 14 yrs so that's not so bad but I don't look to move to a new office and spend weeks getting acclimated while I try to keep my business running without too many interruptions.

Recently I had to make a tough decision...I've left REMAX and have moved a few blocks north and have now joined Keller Williams Properties. I'm very excited with the move and the company has been very supportive in getting us set up so we can continue what we love to do and that's selling Real Estate and making our clients happy.

I still think REMAX is a great company to work for but it was time to move on. I have valid reasons why I left but it makes no sense to dwell on the past...it's time to move forward.

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

They Keep Lying and they Keep Trying.

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:33:46 -0500

Before You read this post...I want everyone who reads it to be aware that this isn't about any particular individual or company. It's something that seems to be happening on a regular basis.....not all the time but many times it comes up when it's too late to do anything but move on. Please don't contact me on the phone. Let's keep the discussion within the post.

I have a lot of friends who are in the Mortgage industry and they know what they're doing but when I can't help the client find someone suitable to represent them and help them get a loan then I have to draw the line somewhere.

If you're a consumer reading this post...you might want to take this little bit of advice I'm going to throw at you....if you're looking to purchase any kind of property and you want to pick your own mortgage broker...you should extensively interview them. Ask them how they'll be communicating with you and your Realtor. Ask them if the information that they give you will be accurate...basically you should ask them if they'll be keeping you fully informed of all aspects that pertain to the loan process. It's very important that you do this because if there is a problem....they'll claim that they have no liability if the deal falls through and that they aren't a party to the contract...but as the buyer...you and your Realtor will be the ones responsible.

You might call this a gripe but I have issues working with these types loan officers and Mortgage brokers and I'm so tired of the lying and the "passing the buck" excuses.

This particular situation can happen on a regular transaction or even on a transaction that might be a short sale..REO or Foreclosure property.

Every state has different rules and laws that they have to abide by and every Real Estate contract is wirtten different so I can only speak for contracts that are written in the state of Florida.

Now I've experienced some great things since I've been in the Real Estate industry and after almost 14 yrs in the business...I've seen the good and the bad. This is a big sticking point so anyone who might be offended by what I'm writing can just keep their comments to themselves and move on to another article to read. I'm not perfect and neither is anyone else but when it comes down to issues that come up in my transactions....I'd rather know about the issue before it's too late. I'd rather not have to waste my clients time and neither should anyone else.

Most of my business is as the listing agent....I like it that way because I know that I have more control over keeping the deal intact but when I'm working with a buyers agent who doesn't keep open the lines of communications with their buyer and the lender they choose....then all things can fall apart very fast.

I'm going to give you a pure example of a problem that's happening in our industry and with all the new changes...you would think it would stop. I'm not hear to cause problems.....I'm here to solve them if I can..So when you decide to purchase a property....you really need to do your homework. You need to have complete communication with your loan officer....your mortgage broker and your agent. If you lose control of the situation...in the end you'll be the one to blame.

Let's take a typical FAR9 contract....it's used in most deals but of course there are FAR BAR and AS-IS contracts that are slightly different...but in my area this seems to be the most consistent contract used.

On the first page of the purchase sales contract....under section #3 Financing...I'll just mention the part I'm talking about here and it clearly states and I quote...Buyer will provide the seller with either a written Financing commitment or approval letter("Commitment") or written notice that the buyer is unable obtain a Commitment with in _____ days.

Now here's the part that seems to be the problem most of the time...Buyer will keep seller and Broker fully informed about the loan application status,progress and commitment issues and authorizes the mortgage broker and lender to disclose all such information to seller and Broker.

It also states that if the buyer is unable to obtain a loan commitment after using dilligence and good faith...then as long as they inform all parties in writting within the said timeline...the buyers deposit will be refunded and the contract is null and void.

Now I'm not in the business to have escrow disputes but when the buyer and the buyers agent do not comply with the clause above....they seem to pass the buck to the Mortgage Broker who then goes into hiding and claims not to be a party to the contract.

That clause is such a crock that it should either be amended or they should just remove it if it's not enforceable.

Perfect example...I have this short sale listing...It was approved in writing each time by the lender with the price and terms they would accept. I've had three different buyers present contracts and all of them fell through due to lying by the mortgage broker. Each time I requested and was supplied proof of bank funds...full approval letters yet none could close.

On the last one most recently....2 weeks before we were supposed to close...I received yet another approval from the sellers lender and when I called the agent to let them know we have the approval and that we needed to get the ball rolling...I asked for an update on the loan process the buyers agent started yelling at me telling me that I had some nerve to ask for it and then by calling their mortgage broker...I find out that now the buyer has an issue with their credit which was never disclosed along with some sort of contingency to have a grant which was not even included in the contract.

The agent denied ever knowing about it and said the buyer didn't know about it was well. "What nerve I had to ask".....I guess I could be lambasted for doing my job to make sure my clients deal didn't fall through once again. In the end as we kept calling the broker..they kept telling us through the whole thing that it wasn't their responsibility to keep us informed. All we could get out of them was that they were going to meet with the buyer to discuss what they wanted to do. " What they wanted to do?" "I don't understand?" It turns out that two days before the closing date after countless times of trying to find out what was going on.....the lender sent some cheesy denial letter based on credit issues. Deal is dead..short sale is usually denied.

Luckily we just received a 4th contract and so far we are getting the information we need to complete the transaction.

End of story!

The approval letters that they supply are as good as getting picked up in a bar and getting someones phone number. Everyone should be aware of the type of people they are dealing with before they establish a relationship and waste peoples time.

Now I know why I can't trust most people in the mrtgage industry. they say they are trying to improve and maybe so are but these slime balls need to be out of the business.

So if that means the Mortgage people can't be held liable then they should just remove it from our contracts because if they don't the ones who will be liable are going to be the buyers and the buyers agent who represent them. You should be protecting both parties and not just one.

I would love to hear if anyone else has experienced these problems.

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 Real Estate-Market Report-Real Estate Agent-Neal Bloom-Weston FL

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:59:25 -0500

Weston Florida Real Estate Market Report-Real Estate Agent-Neal Bloom-Weston FL

Homes for sale in Weston Florida

909 homes for sale in Weston FL - prices range from $60,000 for a 1BR 1BTH --$13,500,000 for a 10BR 12 BTH
275 homes are under contract in Weston FL-prices range from $69,700 for a 2BR 2BTH---$1,699,000 for a 4BR 5.5 BTH.
180 homes have been sold in Weston FL- Over the last 90 days - prices range from $59,430 for a 2BR 2BTH-$2,350,000 for a 5BR 6 BTH.

I wear that name on my sleeve every morning when I wake up to a beautiful sunny day in Weston FL. It's from my first cup of java in the morning until I close shop sometime in the evening. Being a Realtor® has it's challenges. I work when I have to. I enjoy myself whenever it is possible because I believe you only live once so why not enjoy myself with my family and friends after a hard day in the field helping to get my clients through the process. It takes a lot of time...patience and stamina to keep up with the day in and day out race to the finish line. So if you are looking for a Real Estate Agent who has these traits....look no further than to me. Neal The Real Deal Bloom.

The Realtor® in Weston FL with over 13 yrs of experience selling Real Estate!

The Realtor® who "tells it like it is" and will provide you with the superior service you deserve. There are many homes for sale in Weston FL. It's a great time to buy so why not take advantage of a good opportunity.

Photo is courtesy of the city of Weston FL

If you are interested in moving to any of these area's ......then we strongly urge you to look at the Weston FL Real Estate opportunities available here. Please call to make an appointment today!

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 Homes 2009-The Ridges Market Report

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:07:37 -0500

Weston Florida Real Estate

Weston FL Homes-The Ridges

2009 Market Report

Weston FL Homes for sale as of March 2009

24 Homes-Weston FL -The Ridges

Weston FL Homes pending as of -March 2009

18 Homes-Weston FL -The Ridges

Weston FL Homes that have closed over the last 90 days

11 Homes- Weston FL -The Ridges

Other Weston FL Related Stories:

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /REMAX

2500 Weston Road ,Suite 103

Weston FL 33331

(954)608-5556

Weston FL Homes 2009 Market Report

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:53:51 -0500

Weston FL Real Estate

Weston FL Homes

2009 Market Report

Weston FL Homes for sale as of March 2009

573 Homes-Weston FL
365 Condos/Town-homes-Weston FL

Weston FL Homes pending as of -March 2009

143 Homes-Weston FL
94 Condos/Town-homes-Weston FL

Weston FL Homes that have closed over the last 90 days

129 Homes- Weston FL
59 Condos/Town-homes-Weston FL

Other Weston FL Related Stories:

For more information please contact Neal The Real Deal Bloom-Realtor® /REMAX

VILLAS LAKES TOWNHOME FOR SALE-PEMBROKE PINES FL

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (Keller Williams Properties) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:53:45 -0600

Neal Bloom | Remax Premier Associates | nealb63@myacc.net | (954)608-5556

11325 NW 15TH ST, Pembroke Pines, FL

2BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $179,800

Year Built	1981
Sq Footage	1,315
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$135 per month

DESCRIPTION

CORNER UNIT IN MOVE IN CONDITION 2 BR 2 BTH WITH CONVERTABLE 3RD BR...CERAMIC TILES,WOOD FLOORING,UPDATED BATHS..STACKABLE WASHER/DRYER..TANKLESS WATER HEATER..WATER SOFTNER,DOUBLE SCREEND IN PATIO WITH CANAL WITH BOAT ACCESS...EASY TO SHOW

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Living room	Office/Den
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Washer
Dryer

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Swimming pool(s)
Tennis court(s)	Lake

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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

Contact info:

Neal Bloom

Remax Premier Associates

nealb63@myacc.net

(954)608-5556

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Feb 26, 2009, 1:30pm PST