http://activerain.com/blogs/rawchefandi I love working in real estate especially in the luxury home market. In keeping up with market trends, the economy, politics as it relates to real estate, and local real estate issues I'm able to share that information in my blogs. en-us 338478 According to a recent survey of Florida REALTORS, foreign buyers accounted for 7.3% of all homes sales in the state.  Many industry experts consider that percentage on the low side.  There are several reasons for this: people want to live near some of the world's best beaches and fun spots in the world (Welcome to Disneyworld!) and a weak dollar.  US has become a hot commodity for European investors.  So if you're looking to sell, play up our wonderful Florida locations!  Andrea "Andi" Griffith (ZipRealty) Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:14:10 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/338478/Foreign-Assets 329628 On Friday in USA Today there was an article helping sellers and buyers with some pretty good strategies.  Besides the typical tips (Spruce up your home, paint, landscape, etc.) what I liked about the article was how positive it was even in explaining the high-risk market of today.  In short, it explained how one can still sell their home for a reasonable price by understanding the market.  There are a record 4.3 million homes for sale.  And where there's too much supply, prices must fall.  Sellers need to get their homes in near perfect condition, price it right and market it aggressively.  The best marketing strategy?  The internet.  Gee, who knew?  Most agents list a home and simply put it on the local MLS and their personal web site.  We need to get these homes "plastered" on the net.  Don't forget about tempting buyers by offering to help pay closing costs.  Ask your sellers to consider some seller financing.  I think buyers are going to start coming out of hiding now and we need to be prepared.  That doesn't mean prices will go up any time soon, but as prices do begin to stabilize, buyers will not be so scared. Andrea "Andi" Griffith (ZipRealty) Mon, 07 Jan 2008 08:09:15 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/329628/Selling-Strategies 317168 Here's wishing everyone a wonderful holiday.  I'm really looking to getting back home after the new year and back to work.  There are many signs that the real estate maket is turning around (such as new construction has dropped off) and I'm looking forward to a great year.  Wishing the best to all of you.  May you enjoy happiness and prosperity in the coming year. Andrea "Andi" Griffith (ZipRealty) Tue, 25 Dec 2007 09:43:42 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/317168/Happy-Holidays