Patricia's Blog

Dunedin, Florida Best Beaches

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 22:31:54 -0700

We have the best beaches right here in out little town of 37,000 folks!! Yes that's right Dunedin, Florida was voted as having the number one beach by Dr. Beach this year. The Dunedin causeway is a beautiful road that leads to Honeymoon State Park, where honeymooners actually stayed back in the 50's earning it's present day name. Just off the coast of Honeymoon is our lovely Caladesi Island which is a pristine beach of white sand. We are lucky to live in such a lovely area that offers so much. That's just another reason why I live here and work here, Celtic Realty, 1130 Pinehurst Rd., Dunedin, Florida.

Patricia

Dunedin, Florida has a Butterfly Garden

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 07:38:46 -0700

There's a garden in Dunedin, Florida in Hammock Park, just off of Bayshore Blvd. It is located right next to St. Andrew's Historical Chapel. If you visit Dunedin, make sure you check it out. It is a perfect place for a bit of meditation, a quiet moment or a pictures. i took these pictures yesterday and even though it was a very warm summer's day, it was a delightful experience.

Patricia

Sunday in Dunedin, Florida

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 21:08:14 -0700

Dunedin, Florida could actually be called "Funedin"....Kids were having good old fashioned fun today at the water park. It was good to see lots of families in the park enjoying the day, picnicking, swimming at the local pool and enjoying the children's water park. The water park is fairly new and as you can see ...lots of fun.

Even though it was about 90 degrees today, still plenty of kids skating to the park, skating at the park and skating home....it was hot and they were soaked but sure having fun...the recreation center was also full inside with kids watching videos, playing games and enjoying the rec center freely.

Patricia

Why I Love Dunedin, Florida

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:22:51 -0700

What helps to make Dunedin "delightful" is the uniqueness of the town as well as it's residents. Dunedin has several talented resident artists. When Dunedin hosts an art and craft event, people from surrounding communities as far away as Sarasota, come here to enjoy them. Dunedin also offers a variety of art galleries and an art museum in town to enjoy. Dunedin recently added an "artists'" walk on Broadway that allows visitors to watch artists and craftsmen at work. If you take a walk about downtown you may notice several wall murals as well. And of course, make sure you check out the painted oranges on the front of many of our local businesses. I am proud to announce that the building where Celtic Realty is located, 1130 Pinehurst Rd., Dunedin, FL just recently became the recipient of a new orange. We are proud and "delighted" to have it grace our building!

Patricia

These are the times...you know the rest

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:11:35 -0700

With all of the short sale deals I have been involved with lately, I have come to the conclusion that these tough times economically are causing otherwise decent folks behaving badly, includingnearly all the parties to a transaction. Seems everyone's emotional temperature is on the rise. Seems everyone is ready to explode rather than trying to work together. Not only are the buyers and sellers at it, but the agents for both sides, the title company as well as the short sale lenders and the buyer's lender all behaving badly.

I think it's time for us to take a step back. We all make mistakes. No one is perfect and some of these short sales just do not go as smoothly as we would like. There are lots of surprises. Buyers need to understand that often, they are getting a good deal but some of the circumstances may not be ideal. Sellers need to cooperate with their lenders as well as their agents and respond quickly to requests for documentation etc. The agents need to work together and not play the blame game.

Yesterday, for the first time in my career, I was reduced to tears. I almost wanted to quit and just leave it all behind. I was truly overwhelmed. I longed for the old days when sales were "normal". It was truly a "lousy" day. One buyer could not be found after making an offer on a short sale and waiting it out months; another buyer was hacked off at one of my sellers for not making all of his mortgage and maintenance payments; needless to say, I was in the middle of it all. Followed by Lots crazy emails and nasty messages.

Why not extend a little patience or a supportive word to another, even when you don't feel like it? even when you feel like the person you are dealing with is an idiot? Why not just be kind? Wouldn't the world be a better place and maybe, just maybe someone will do the same for you when you are having a really bad day.

Patricia

There's something wrong with this Deal.....

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:42:14 -0800

About eight months ago I began working with a customer to find a property. The customer signed a buyer's broker agreement with me. We looked at a number of properties but she couldn't find just what she was looking for. I had her pre-qualified by a local who I had done business with in the past.

Long story short, she goes out riding around in her car and finds a house. She takes the info sheet. The house is listed with another realtor (who also does business with the same local mortgage guy and has his name on the back of realtor's info sheet). Turns out she likes the house and makes an offer with the listing agent. She calls the mortgage guy and asks about me. He tells her he hasn't talked with me in a while (true). The deal closes. No one tells me anything. Turns out the mortgage guy is a "friend and business partner" of the realtor; together they own a title company.

The customer said she didn't realize what she had done. The morgage guy took no responsibility, even though I had told him I had a buyer's agreement with the customer.

The buyer's agreement is valid and I'm told by an attorney I should sue the customer.

I am not a happy camper.

Patricia

Rentals in Washington DC

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:02:51 -0800

I am writing this for help in locating a rental in Washington DC. This will be an annual rental, preferably two bedrooms. If there are any realtors who can assist it would be appreciated. My daughter is relocating and she called a random agent and the agent never called her back. I know we don't make any money on rentals, but if all goes well with her new job in DC, she may become a buyer. Any help would be appreciated. She plans to be there by Feb. 15, 2010 and has a dog. We are aware that it is expensive and she will be working at the VA. Thanks a bunch all you Active Rainers in DC.

Patricia

Need a Rental in Washington DC

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 13:33:28 -0800

Patricia

I Hate REOs and Bank Owned Properties, Buyer Beware

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 18:58:07 -0800

I hate REOs and bank owned properties because the seller has no information on the properties and if the agents do, some of them are not telling it all. I had an out of state customer look at a Fannie Mae property this week and liked it well enough to make an offer. We talked about what changes he would make in the house to make it just right for him and what a beautiful location that house had. He had some additional questions that only the City could provide so I gave him directions and he went downtown to get some answers. (and of course I offered to do the research for him). While there, he stumbled into the Engineering Department and asked some additional questions about the property. Lo and Behold! The property had permits pulled at least three times for sinkhole issues....wow. Since the Listing Agent is a local gal, I would think she would have had some idea about that house that was not shared on the MLS listing because Yep....you heard it right...the seller never occupied the property and therefore doesn't have to any to make disclosures. I advised the Listing Agent via email and left voice mail messages, but the MLS hasn't had an noticeable changes made to it as of yet. If that were my listing, I would let everybody know about the issue with the house. I think that's the right thing to do whether the seller occupied the property or not. Buyer Beware.

Patricia

Still....Glad for the Rain

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:21:06 -0800

So yesterday was a lousy day and I had a place to vent on the Rain. It was the place to whine and let out all of my frustrations with realtors and the real estate business in general. I got a few comments and some very encouraging words....and I thought I'm glad I have the Rain.

Today, is another story. Today I am bragging about my new designation of Certified International Property Specialist, which was approved as of today. Now, this isn't something I can share with just anyone. I'm bursting at the seams to share this with someone who can appreciate what that means and not give me that "deer in the headlights" look and say "huh?"....the Rain is the place to do just that too. So I am glad to have a place to share my news and know in my heart that you appreciate it! Again, Thanks to the rain.

Patricia

Glad for the Rain

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 13:44:41 -0800

I'm just glad to have a place to go to when I don't know where else to turn. Talk about frustrations lately....times are tough right now for realtors, sellers, lenders etc. etc. but geez....I had a seller who finally gave up and turned over her keys with the Deed in Lieu...(not without my encouragement) I had not yet removed the short sale listing from the MLS when another listing agent moved in and took over. He sent me a rather "smug" email, used my lockbox to access the house and kept the key. Isn't that stealing? I would have handed over the key gladly, now that the property has become a "Bank Owned" property but couldn't he have just asked me for it? In addition, in his email, he wrote to me as if, I didn't already know that my seller handed over the deed. I had spoken to the "lender" several times about this. Encouraged my seller to "do the right thing" and return the lender's calls. The house isn't in a particularly good neighborhood and my signs had been vandalized and the house broken into twice. Since the seller was a friend, I did have a lot of information about the property that the "new" agent was lacking. I would have been glad to share it had he not been so smug. The lender, led me to believe that since this property was already listed by me that when it became the property of the lender, I would have the listing. So much for that...yeah I'm feeling frustrated today, just three days before Christmas.

Patricia

Dunedin Artist Adds a Celtic Symbol for Celtic Realty

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:22:12 -0700

When I opened Celtic Realty in 2007, I was told by several that it was the "worst time in the history of real estate to open an office", yet we managed then and I am proud to say that we are managing now. I just hired two additional agents, one who was born in Dublin, Ireland!! Our hometown of Dunedin, Florida is a perfect place for me enjoy while living and working here. We recently hired Dunedin's famous "Orange" artist, Steve Spathelf, to paint a Celtic symbol on the front of our office and it has created a neighborhood buzz....enjoy!

You will certainly be able to find us!!

Patricia

Ocala, FL Agent Needed

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:04:08 -0800

I just sold a house, with the closing in May, the seller needs an agent in Ocala.

If you would like a referral for a rental or a purchase please send me an email at Patricia@Celtic-Realty.com

Patricia

Too Busy to Blog?

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:45:29 -0800

Wow...business has picked up since the election!! Remember all that Doom and Gloom just prior to the election, well things are much better in the real estate industry for me right now. I find that there are less foreclosures on the market, more bank owned and packages processed a little faster and a little easier. Oh yes, we still need to call the lenders frequently and make sure all the documents are in order, but that's just every day business. A few months back I was scrambling around in my office, just cleaning up my computer and prospecting on a daily basis, but the phone just wasn't ringing. Well, I for one and glad that people are beginning to realize just what a buyer's market this is and how low the current interest rates are. I just haven't had the time I had last summer to read and write blogs!

Patricia

So why is it called Active Rain?

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 16:02:44 -0800

I was recently sharing information about the Active Rain cite to an interior designer who I thought would enjoy the rain and benefit from it professionally, when she asked me why it was called Active Rain. I thought for a minute, but had to admit I have not idea! I told her about the benefits and how much fun it is and what a great network of cool folks are registered. She listened quite enthusiastically and wrote down the web address. She quickly reminded me how she isn't computer savvy and doesn't even know what blogging is, but I assured I too had been there. I was sure to tell her how much tutoring and help from new friends will come and soon she too will be addicted. As for the name, can someone share that with me?

Patricia

Here's Our Dog...

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:12:37 -0700

Okay, I've promised a picture of my dog...so here goes. Mooshy is a Shee-Poo, half Shitzu and half Poodle. He is five years old and I simply adore him. Of course, my husband is his favorite but that's okay since they were buddies before we got married. Anyway, he's a cutie isn't he?

Patricia

Celtic Realty Dunedin, Florida Listing

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:34:04 -0700

Here's a charming three bedroom, two bath, two car garage, pool home in Dunedin listed at $275,000. The house has a bonus room and lovely landscaping. The kitchen was recently updated, with a free standing kitchen island and a breakfast area eat-in kitchen. The house features ceramic tile and berber carpet throughout. The house offers a split plan and a family room in addition to the living room dining area. Enjoy pictures at www.1525albemarle.com. The house is scheduled to be Open on Nov16, 2008 If you are moving to Pinellas County or the Dunedin area call me at Celtic Realty, Dunedin, Florida for information about this house as well as others for sale or for rent in town. Vistit my web cite at www.Celtic-Realty.com for more information. We look forward to your visit or a chat.

Patricia

Dunedin Causeway Offer Kayaking, Dunedin, Florida

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:39:59 -0700

If you ride out to the causeway, you will find some beautiful views, a bike/walking path and a place to rent a kayak and kayak around the intercoastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The causeway's end is the entrance to Honeymoon Island, renamed from Hog Island in 1939, when a developer built fifty thatched roof cottages for honeymooners. Take a short ride by ferry to one of the few completely natural islands along Florida´s Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island's white sand shores have been rated as the nation´s #1 best beach by Dr. Beach every years since 1991. Beach lovers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

I have lived and worked in Dunedin, Florida for the past ten years. Call me if you wish to visit or relocate to Dunedin. I am the broker for Celtic Realty, where we provide great service and that's no blarney. Visit our web cite at www.Celtic-Realty.com or just call me at 7f27-412-8558. I look forward to a chat about my hometown.

Patricia

Ever wonder what a Pocket Park Is? We have them in Dunedin, Florida

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:14:29 -0700

Even if you live here, you may not know that Dunedin, Florida has several lovely pocket parks. It's a city park that's small but has a beautiful view of the water. A great place to watch the sunsets. We have several of them, these two are off Alternate 19, or Bayshore Blvd.

Patricia

Downtown Dunedin, Florida

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:13:50 -0700

Yesterday I was in a pensive mood and needed to take a break from the office. It was a day I needed to get out and enjoy my hometown of Dunedin, Florida. I brought along my camera so I could take some pictures to share of our quaint little town. Dunedin has lots to offer. You can start at the western end of town and find our city's marina which is a beautiful spot for a sunset. Head further downtown and you will find unique shops and restaurants to enjoy lunch or dinner and perhaps a cocktail. Dont' forget your sweet tooth!! There's a chocolate shop and an a brand new ice cream shop on Main. You can taste wine at the Wine Tasting shop and you can listen to Irish songs at Flanagan's Pub.

Dunedin shares the Pinellas Trail, bike and walkway which goes through downtown Dunedin. In fact there's a bike shop and a small cafe located adjacent to the trail.

History buffs will enjoy a trip to the Dunedin Historical Museum located in the 1923 Atlantic Coast Railroad Station in the center of downtown. Visitors can enjoy learning about our history and locals enjoy many of the exhibits throughout the year.

With so much to do and see in Dunedin, it's no wonder that visitors return and local folks come often to dine, shop and just enjoy our town.

Patricia

Downtown Dunedin, Florida

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:12:31 -0700

Dunedin shares the Pinellas Trail, bike and walkway which goes through downtown Dunedin. In fact there's a bike shop and a small cafe located adjacent to the trail.

With so much to do and see in Dunedin, it's no wonder that visitors return and local folks come often to dine, shop and just enjoy our town.

Patricia

Dunedin Celebrates Autumn

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:58:56 -0700

I've heard it said that since I moved to Florida some twenty years ago that I must be accustomed by now to not having a changing of the Seasons. Florida really does have a changing of the seasons, although it may not be as extreme as my northern friends and family, we do have some cooler weather and celebrate the beautiful fall colors just like other states do. Here is a beautiful illustration of how Fall appears to us in Dunedin, Florida. Several of our churches have Fall Festivals and Pumpkin Patches. There are planned community events such as our Art Harvest on the first weekend of November. Add our beautiful Harvest Moon over the Gulf of Mexico and there you have a terrific mix...Come and see for yourself.

If you are interested in relocating to Dunedin, Florida or Pinellas County please visit my web cite at www.Celtic-Realty.com or visit our Dunedin Chamber of Commerce and find my banner to lead you to my link

Patricia

I Need Help!

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 08:55:29 -0700

Could some kind person please explain to me why the boxes above my post are all blank. I think they are supposed to be tools and they are not there. It sounds like maybe a glitch on my computer? Please offer some advice or tips. They do show on one of my other computers as they should, but not on the office computer?

Patricia

If it sounds Fishy, It is Fishy

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 10:00:21 -0700

Times are economically tight right now but here's a request that I turned down today. Don't think they are tough enough to justify this one.....Okay so I get an email from a client who says he's looking for five acres of property in a nearby county. He asks me to find it for him and adds "don't tell Michele, this is a personal investment". Well, as you probably guessed "Michele" is his wife. These folks are not friends, just clients but I have met them both and know who they are. Sounds kinda fishy to me and I am not sure I want to help him purchase property without his wife's knowlege. Every had this happen? If so, what did you do?

Patricia

Any International Folks Out There ?

Patricia Harris (Celtic Realty) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:19:18 -0700

Need to ask the Rainers if any of you have taken the CIPS course and what your thoughts are about it. In this market, we need to get creative. I recently was asked to handle an international transaction and it sparked my interest in the Certified International Property Specialist course. Please let me know what your thoughts are if you have taken the course, Was it helpful? Was it enjoyable and did you learn enough to make it work for you in the international market. I understand that it is offered by the National Association of Realtors both in class and on-line; would like to know your comments regarding which is better too. Thanks for your assistance ahead of time.

Patricia