Julie's Blog

CELEBRATING THANKSGIVING IN FORT LAUDERDALE

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:20:35 -0600

Whether one of our own Fort Lauderdale citizens celebrating Thanksgiving in our tropical paradise or a welcome visitor from a colder clime, I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving Day! Holidays are always a terrific reason to make time for local fun. Whether to entertain each other, the kids, or out of town guests, here are a few favorite Fort Lauderdale outings to consider this weekend:

1. BONNET HOUSE MUSEUM AND GARDENS
Rated number one of the top 90 "to do" spots in Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House is an historic 1921 plantation-style home amid tropical gardens and ponds. The home of famed artist, Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Evelyn, the Bonnet House ocean-side grounds and estate are open to the public. Contact education@bonnethouse.org for more information. Address: 900 North Birch Road Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 Tel: 954-563-5393.

2. SAWGRASS RECREATION PARK
This is an exciting airboat tour in the Everglades. Rumor has it that reservations should be made early in the day for a better chance to see alligators. Be sure to ask about the free, annual one year pass for Florida residents. Address: U.S. 27 north of I-595 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33329. Tel: 954-389-0202.

3. SPIRIT OF LAUDERDALE CATAMARAN
Quoted by one tourist as "heaven on the water," this day cruise is a "must do" for water lovers. The crew is known for their safety, knowledge of the area and love of the sea. Visit http://www.tropicalsailing.com/spiritoflauderdale for more information. Address: 801 Seabreeze Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Tel: 954-579-8181.

4. BROWARD CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS
The beautiful Performing Arts Center in downtown Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of musical and theater productions, including touring Broadway shows. Visit BoxOffice@browardcenter.org to find what's playing this weekend.

5. HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK
Just a stone's throw from Bonnet House, this ocean-side, 180-acre park was once the home of the man who gave his daughter the grounds for Bonnet House in the 1920's. Straddling both the Intracoastal and the ocean, this wonderful park offers picnicking, camping, biking, swimming and canoeing and a chance to tour the home of the generous man who donated his lovely estate to Florida. Visit http://www.floridastateparks.org/hughtaylorbirch/ for more information. Address: 3109 East Sunrise Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 Tel: 954-564-4521.

6. MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE AND IMAX 3D THEATER
Meant for kids of all ages, this interactive science museum makes learning fun. Features include a Discovery Center for younger children, a planetarium with powerful telescopes and an IMAX Theater that shows daily science-related films on its giant, 3-D screen. For more information, visit information@mods.net. Address: 401 Southwest Second Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 Tel: 954-467-6637.

7. LAS OLAS BOULEVARD
This lively, trend-setting downtown boulevard is perfect to stroll, shop excellent boutiques, dine on local cuisine, relax at a sidewalk café or take a gondola ride through the Venice of America.

These are only a smattering of fun Fort Lauderdale choices, of course, after you've been for a swim in our turquoise ocean!

Happy Thanksgiving one and all!

Julie
www.luxuryrealestateftl.com

BUILDING GREEN SAVES MORE THAN MONEY

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:15:08 -0600

The State of Florida offers excellent tax incentives for applying Green standards to new construction or renovating commercial and residential buildings. Besides tax incentives, I was surprised to learn that applying Green standards is not as costly or stringent as most people think.

Jerry Nelson is an accredited LEED professional builder with luxury residence builder, Bomar Builders Inc. (LEED = Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-developed by the US Green Building Council-USGBC. LEED is accepted internationally and nationally as a standard of excellence.)

Jerry Nelson said, "The greatest misconception about Green building is the cost. The real expense is in the pre-construction planning with architects to make green systems integral with the building."

On average, an upfront investment of 2% in green building design results in saving more than ten times the initial investment in the life-cycle of total construction costs. In addition, the cost of building green falls into the same percentile of costs for building outside of green standards.

Jerry Nelson cautions, "Putting a solar panel on house is not really "green" construction. Green construction is integrating a sustainable system to provide proper air quality and lower energy costs. The end result is that the whole house is a system-a living thing." However, changing one dynamic can affect many features in a home. For example, installing energy efficient windows reduces cooling costs and sun damage to interiors while adding needed light and protecting the building from hurricane winds.

Nelson believes buyers need more motivations to go Green. He adds, "As incentives go, there is no question as to compensation when using LEED's home standards. A LEED certified building or residence is considered to comprise the most comprehensive Green system, integrating energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts. In other words, using LEED construction lowers an individual's "carbon footprint" in his environment. Visit www.usgbc.com for more information on this excellent program.

BOMAR endorses LEED standards for building Green. "In Florida, most new construction is going green whether we know it or not. For example, schools and public buildings now require LEED in construction. Green is being mandated in many areas of the public sector," Nelson said. For more information of building Green, visit www.BomarBuilders.com.

This is all important information for homeowners whether planning to build their dream home, or renovating their existing home to improve quality of life. Any improvement to our homes impacts not only us for the better, but our environment, as well. In my next blog, I will return with more benefits on building and renovating Green. So stay tuned!

Wishing you the best from my corner of paradise,
Julie

JULIE'S NOVEMBER REAL ESTATE REPORT: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:49:32 -0600

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show kicked off the main selling season for real estate here in South Florida. As temperatures start to drop in the Northern States and overseas, potential buyer's attention turns to the Sunshine State. Low prices and high inventory are a major attraction this year. As November sets in and the holiday season approaches, here is the latest news from the trenches of the luxury real estate market.

The Good

· The Fed again pledges to hold rates at record-lows for an extended period, signaling that the weak economy remains dependent on government assistance to grow. Most analysts do not think that the Fed will begin to boost rates again until next spring or summer.

· The Central Bank hopes low rates will encourage consumers and businesses to boost spending and invigorate the economy. The Fed signaled that it can continue to hold rates because inflation is all but nonexistent.

· The economy began growing again last quarter for the first time in more than a year. However, much of that growth was from Government support spending on homes and cars.

· The Florida Realtors statistics show sales of existing single family homes rose 33% in the third quarter of 2009 versus 2008--marking the fifth consecutive quarter that Florida has seen higher existing year-to-year sales. Statewide sales of existing condominiums in the third quarter rose 56% versus 2008, marking the fourth consecutive quarter.

· The general view is that Florida will rebound because the sun shines every day and there are lots of advantages to living here. Foreign investors see this too and believe that prospects are good for long term investments. This month Julie has seen buyers from Russia, Canada and Europe.

· The first-time buyer tax credit has been extended which favors the under $1M market. However, any boost to buyer confidence will impact on the sales of luxury real estate over time.

· Investors are very slowly and cautiously returning to Florida, they are looking for the ultimate bargains and always make low offers, often with equally low deposits. However, Julie welcomes the activity on her inventory and encourages all buyers to counter offers which have to "start somewhere".

· The quality of buyers has improved since the summer time. Buyers are more serious and are coming back for a second look (often resurfacing after cooling off for many months). The Internet provides such a wealth of knowledge that these buyers are very well educated as to market values and opportunities.

· Julie is talking to a number of buyers who are considering listing in the New Year after all of the holiday activities.

· Social media continues to grow in popularity with Zillow, Trulia, Inman and the new Blockshopper program providing additional exposure for Julie's listings and widening the Internet "net" both nationally and internationally.

· Brian Radeer has joined Julie's team as a buyer specialist and brings extensive experience of the oceanfront condominium market, in particular.

· Julie and the team has $8M in pending sales for November and looks forward to a strong end to 2009.

The Bad

· Fed Chairman, Ben Bernanke, cautions that rising joblessness and tight credit for many people and companies could restrain the rebound in the months ahead, with economic activity likely to remain weak for a time.

· As with all past economic rebounds, the recovery will not stop the unemployment rate from rising. The jobless rate could rise as high as 10.5% before declining. The delicate balance between boosting interest rates and removing government support too soon could damage the recovery. On the other hand, maintaining low rates and keeping support for too long could fuel inflation.

· The Fed continues to caution that the tepid recovery has begun but gains are small or scattered. Predictions for Florida are that the holiday outlook is weak with home sales rebounding at a slower pace. Although layoffs eased, firms are waiting for a surge in sales before hiring.

The Ugly

· South Florida buyers are increasingly leery about Chinese Drywall. An extreme example is ruling out entire communities or residences built within the past seven years. As many as 100,000 homes in the US, including 36,000 in Florida could have the imported wallboard which is thought to corrode wiring, cooper pipes, appliances and give off the "rotten egg" odor. In the worst case, homeowners report nosebleeds and respiratory problems. However, this is denied by State and Federal officials who have yet to make this link.

· Under Florida law, sellers and their real estate agents must disclose any known material defect or condition which would affect the value of a property. To this end the Florida Association of Realtors has added a disclosure form for Chinese drywall, but there is no state law requiring the use of this document.

· Massive amounts of foreclosures continue to clog the county's civil courts. To put this in perspective 135,000 foreclosures could be filed in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe this year compared to 17,500 in 2006.

The overall message is this ‘THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO ENTICE THE BUYER .... THAT IS WITH PRICE'. Julie will be contacting all of the sellers that she works with to encourage them to continue price adjustments in order to maximize the opportunity of a sale this season. As always Julie and her team welcomes comments and questions on any aspect of the luxury real estate market in Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale's Boat Show and the Affect on Local Real Estate

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:37:04 -0600

I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Michael Gerrity of the RealEstateChannel.com. Click below to enjoy this insightful article on the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and its affect on local luxury real estate.

http://www.realestatechannel.com/us-markets/residential-real-estate-1/real-estate-news-2009-ft-lauderdale-boat-show-luxury-home-sales-in-ft-lauderdale-luxury-homes-miami-luxury-homes-palm-beach-viking-yachts-julie-jones-1615.php

Enjoy!

Julie Jones

FORT LAUDERDALE'S FIRST PARTY BOAT

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:07:06 -0600

With the 2009 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show wrapping up another successful season, I thought my readers would enjoy a sail back in time to see how this tropical paradise lured the first of Fort Lauderdale's luxury boaters, way back when.

In 1893, Frank Stranahan's camp and ferry crossing on the New River caught the attention of the local newspaper, the Tropical Sun. Stranahan's camp, then called the New River Station, was the focal point adjacent to the original fort where traders and nature hunters met. The New River Station then consisted of sturdy tents and comfortable cabins which attracted the sporting crowd to the surrounding Everglades for fishing and hunting. (Today, Stranahan House stands as a historic site on the New River in the heart of the city.)

In 1896, Mr. C.B. Cory, a wealthy naturalist and sportsman, arrived with a refurbished Mississippi steamboat named the Wanderer. The ship cost Mr. Cory $100,000, then a princely sum for a pleasure craft. The Wanderer offered twelve bedrooms, a magnificent lounge, a piano, a recreation room and a gun room. According to one observer, the 90-foot vessel, "at the time represented one of the finest privately owned boats in the country."

Mr. Cory moored the vessel along forty acres of property he purchased on the banks of the New River. Over time, Cory transferred ownership to his friend, a famous actor, Joe Jefferson. Mr. Jefferson entertained society notables, such as Grover Cleveland, as well as a number of women guests who were frowned upon by the local residents. The Wanderer enjoyed notoriety as the first "Party Boat" in Fort Lauderdale until the Hurricane of 1926 reduced it to timbers.

As we watch the mega-yachts from this weekend's Boat Show glide through Port Everglades in all their sleek, nautical finery, keep in mind the hearty folks who appreciated Fort Lauderdale's boating attractions in the "wild" days, when "wild" held an entirely different meaning!

Happy sailing!

Is South Florida Your Retirement Dream?

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:12:29 -0500

Over the past couple of weeks some of my friends and customers are putting a focus on their retirement goals!

Losses from the financial crisis and uncertainty (even with the good old bond market) are leaving so many of us scratching our head as to where and when to invest! But good old bricks and mortar in the form of residential real estate may not be such a bad option, especially if a retirement or vacation residence is on the horizon.

One million dollars does not buy you what it once did real estate-wise. In fact, it now buys you more! Sales of residences over $1M adjusted by more than 50% from the peak four years ago, opening excellent buying opportunities for those willing to take the plunge. Plus, consider the inventory that is now available for potential buyers.

I have approaching fifty listings, ranging from $1M to $11M and they are all beautiful residences! There is the highest selection of luxury residences that I have ever seen over my 11 year span as a real estate broker. Since July 4th, I have seen a shift in the buyer's attitudes when they look at the properties I represent. They are taking a little more time, asking more detailed questions and making offers when everything stacks up for them.
Some Fort Lauderdale properties offer excellent rental income, so that if you are not quite ready to retire you can rent, full or part-time, until the glorious day arrives to soak in the sunshine every day!

Whether you are looking to stick your toes in the sand of our beautiful Fort Lauderdale beaches, dock your boat behind your private residence or enjoy the 5-Star amenities of our luxury condominium communities, there is definitely an opportunity to achieve your real estate dream! Please do not hesitate to contact me or visit our website at www.luxuryrealestateftl.com. Your retirement goals could be well within reach.

FORT LAUDERDALE REAL ESTATE: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:05:51 -0500

Mid-October has arrived and the season is underway in Fort Lauderdale. I would like to share an update of my activities I presented to my Sellers from the frontline of Fort Lauderdale 's luxury real estate market.

The Good

· I have invested in two Internet-based marketing programs to promote my listings: Zillow and BlockShoppers. Between these two sites, and the rest of my Internet networking, I am confident in reaching over 300,000 visitors (new faces, not return browsers) per month with my listings.

· I am proud to be a sponsor of the Go Red for Women, American Heart Association initiative. I invite any lady in the Fort Lauderdale area who would like to become involved with this dynamic group, which is in association with the Cleveland Clinic, to please contact me.

· A survey conducted by the National Association for Business Economics released results in the beginning of October which stated that most economists see recovery starting in the US, but they expect that the recovery will be slow as worries over unemployment and high federal debt continue to stop consumers from making big decisions (especially real estate). This is compounded by the lack of mortgage options available to potential buyers.

· This week I have received three offers on my luxury inventory and one of the offers resulted in a contract for 320 Coral Way, Las Olas, which (subject to inspections) will close on November 18^th. I am confident that this activity points to movement and sales in the luxury real estate market.

· In October four of my sellers decided to adjust their list prices. This is a wise strategy as these listings will now be set to take advantage of the sales season and hopefully achieve results.

· For those who qualify, there are some excellent mortgage rates available. If you would like assistance, please contact Mason Pruner, Branch Manager of Wells Fargo, at 954-857-3502 for the latest rates and programs available.

· People are moving for happier reasons! (Source: Relocation.com) People have returned to moving in hopes of improving their lives rather than moving to escape foreclosure or economic crisis.

The Bad

· Appraisal issues . . . Just over the last week our office has experienced transactions falling apart because properties are not appraising for the contract prices. It is very difficult for the appraisers because of the very limited number of sales in 2009. If you are concerned about the list price of your residence for sale, I encourage an appraisal which is totally objective and extremely useful when a contract is being negotiated. Imagine how frustrating it is for the seller when a result is finally obtained and you are planning to move - then come to find that your property will not appraise for the contract price.

The Ugly

· I am pleased to report little ugliness for October (except for the low market activity and long market times). The only possible exception is with the condominium market where in the entire Fort Lauderdale market, there has only been one sale in excess of $3M and only three sales between $2 -3M. The condominium market is very challenged, and potential buyers are increasingly concerned about the financial stability of the communities in terms of maintenance fees in default and residences in foreclosure.

· The media is still quick to remind us that the banks have held back a vast number of foreclosures and short sales. Apparently they have been waiting for the market to improve and sales to increase. These distressed sales will be released within the coming months and may be impacted by those sellers who have increased interest rates on their loans and can no longer make the payments.

If you have any questions or concerns about your property, please contact me. It is my goal to achieve the best price and terms for the residences I represent and to see a result this selling season!

FORT LAUDERDALE TOPS LIST FOR HOME SALES RECOVERY

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:13:44 -0500

This summer, Forbes.com reported a list of what they found to be the top ten cities in the United States for housing recovery based on the findings defined by the US Office of Management and Budgets (OMB) and Zillow.com. Forbes researched 161 metropolitan areas where sales had increased and foreclosures as a percentage of overall sales had been lowest.

I am happy to report that the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area ranked first in recovery. The report cautions that these statistics do not mean the housing market is on the rebound, and mentions cities, such as Las Vegas, that continue to struggle. This report shows that the ten cities cited are the most like to recover sooner. To read more, visit: http://www.forbes.com/2009/08/13/recovery-cities-homes-lifestyle-real-estate-housing-recovery-cities_slide_1.html?thisSpeed=15000

Here are the top ten b est cities for housing recovery:

•1. Miami-Ft. Lauderdale, FL

•2. Lincoln, NE

•3. Colorado Springs, CO

•4. Salem, OR

•5. San Luis Obispo, CA

•6. Bremerton, WA

•7. Denver, CO

•8. Redding, CA

•9. Santa Barbara, CA

•10. San Jose, CA

THREE MOST IMPORTANT TRAITS FOR COMMUNITY LOYALTY

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:26:16 -0500

In a recent Gallup Poll reported by FloridaRealtor.com, economics is not the key driver in community attachment as many may believe. This survey showed that of the three highest ranking draws to community attachment, the first priority was openness.

It is exciting to read that tolerance for population diversity commands the highest attraction to loving one's community. Cities and towns favorable to people all ages, income levels, cultural and racial differences and educational backgrounds earn the most loyalty.

Second most important community-engaging requirement is social offerings. Cities and towns offering downtown revitalizations, parks and pet-friendly areas, a vibrant nightlife, active cultural centers, civic activities and friendly neighborhoods form the major requirements for community constancy. Regular community interaction cements a sense of ‘neighborhood' with its inhabitants.

The third most important factor in community attachment is aesthetics. A city/town's physical setting and "green" attributes are more important for those surveyed than public safety or improved highways. This encourages consideration of environmental factors and the use of "green" materials in urban design and new construction.

What please me most about reading this information, is that Fort Lauderdale offers each of these top three requirements to those choosing to live, work and play in this tropical paradise, which was one of the driving forces in my choice to live here. Now, I am curious to know: What attracts you to where you live?

VIEW FROM LONDON: BUY, HOLD OR SELL?

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:15:01 -0500

Once again, Nick Churton, my colleague from the London Mayfair International Realty office, has posted his thoughts on the current UK real estate market. Thought I'd share . . .

Just like the stock market there is a right time in the real estate market to buy, hold or sell. But, unlike the stock market, buying real estate is usually allied to selling, so a clear financial advantage is harder to anticipate or achieve. Despite the turbulence of the past year the market now in the UK, against all odds, is rather good for selling. Here's why.

Figures just out show that the rental market is reaching some sort of equilibrium, with the numbers of available properties having dropped over the past six months or so. This is an important indicator. It suggests that those owners who couldn't sell their homes in the recession, and were thus letting them instead, have now begun to find buyers. This erosion of inventory in the rental sector indicates a new dynamic in the sales sector.

Just as in the US, over the course of the year, buyers have been snapping up those properties priced keenly to sell. These bargain seekers have, in the main, been cash buyers or those with sufficient funds to require only a small mortgage. Now two things have happened in the market. Cash buyers are drying up along with the bargains. In many areas prices have been rising to reflect the paucity of available stock.

Will more inventory become available over the coming months as home-owners see more chance of a sale? Would a greater supply of property for sale suppress, or even reverse, some surprising price advances of the past few months? These questions are hard to answer in a post recession economic environment that even yet threatens greater job losses and higher taxation.

In the UK, with a general election less than a year away, we are now in an all-important political party conference season. Those of us in the real estate industry and those whose plans include buying and/or selling property over the coming months are busy analysing how the policies of an aspiring new government may affect our real estate market. All the parties have new ideas. But what good, if any, these measures would have in practise is difficult to see just now. But the real drivers of the real estate market are deaths, births, confidence and taxes. Any incoming government next year can't do too much about the first two. But how they manage the latter pair will be crucial to them and to the population.

So what to do now to make the most of this UK market before the general election next year and even Christmas this year? Why, sell of course. But if there is a property to buy as well it really does not matter too much in the financial scheme of things. What surely does matter is that we and our families are happy and safe in the homes we have or the homes we wish to buy. These are always the best reasons to determine whether to buy, hold or sell and no market or political party, whatever their policies, will ever change that.

ENJOY 20% MINIMUM OFF YOUR LUXURY REAL ESTATE PURCHASE

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:13:16 -0500

John Brian Losh, CEO of Luxuryrealestate.com recently stated, "The good news for luxury homebuyers is that they are getting about 20% ‘more house' than they were able to buy two years ago, plus the prestige of owning a $1M home is returning."

Luxuryrealestate.com is a national and international affiliation of top luxury brokers who feed market reports and opinion to the institute almost daily. This is a reliable statement that is being endorsed by brokers from all of the major luxury markets across the US and globally. This is encouraging news for the buyers about to start their search this sales season.

I have just returned from New York and could feel the chill in the morning and evening air! For those of you looking to escape the cold winters and achieve the tax advantages of living in South Florida it is now time to plan a visit and research the exciting options that await you here in Fort Lauderdale.

Rates on 30 year loans remain at 5.04% as of September 28^th. The 15-year fixed rate mortgage fell to 4.46% (lowest on record since 1991) according to Freddie Mac. Applications for home loans rose nearly 13% last week from a week earlier as refinancing applications surged according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. For those qualifying under the new financing regulations this is good news indeed.

For further market information and local opportunities please do not hesitate to contact Julie Jones at 954-328-3665 or luxuryrealestateftl.com.

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH--THE TOUGH TAKE VACATIONS

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:34:13 -0500

South Florida tourism is taking a pro-active approach to attracting visitors to our tropical paradise. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International airports, entertainment arenas and cruise lines have all taken steps to make the idea of vacationing here even sweeter.

A recent article in South Florida Business Journal cites that the leaders of Virgin America Airways had been eyeing South Florida as a destination, and chose to debut at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport due to the city's centralized location. This same airport expects a 1-1.5 percent year-over-year increase in air passenger traffic for September, showing Fort Lauderdale's strength as a destination city and the airline carriers' faith in putting seats into this destination. In addition, by ensuring lower operations costs, the airport attracts and keeps low-cost carriers such as JetBlue, Virgin, Spirit Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Major events coming to South Florida, such as the Pro Bowl and the Super Bowl are also expected to enhance tourism here. The former Dolphin Stadium renovated as Land Shark Stadium, now owned by Jimmy Buffet, has enhanced the area's attractiveness for entertaining and sports events. To quote the stadium's website: "Our mission is to be recognized both nationally and internationally as the premier sports and entertainment showplace in the Americas." For more information on the new stadium, visit: http://www.landsharkstadium.com/content/stadium.aspx.

Despite cruise lines experiencing a drop in passengers, deep discounts continue to keep cruise ships departing South Florida at capacity. Fort Lauderdale based MSC Cruises (USA) has doubled North American passengers every year since 2003. Royal Caribbean's 5400 passenger ship, Oasis of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built, is expected in Port Everglades in November, clearly showing the cruise line's confidence in South Florida.

Whether as a destination city for vacation, business or a planned relocation, Fort Lauderdale remains strong as the tropical site to live, work and play.

TWO OUT OF FOUR OVER-$5M SALES!

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:34:13 -0500

Year-to-date 2009, there have been only four broker represented sales in Fort Lauderdale in excess of $5Million. I am pleased to announce that I was responsible for the selling side on two of these four transactions. Most recent was a closing this past Friday where the last asking price was $10.995M.

As your "Go To" Luxury Waterfront Specialist in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to call if I can open the door to a luxury property for you!

UK Real Estate: A Riddle Wrapped in a MysteryInside an Eniga

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:52:18 -0500

My London colleague, Nick Churton of Mayfair International Realty, has once again shared his unique view on the puzzling state of the UK property market this fall. It is my pleasure to share with you that, despite the conflicting signs, Nick finds there is reason to be very optimistic. Read on, and enjoy!

Winston Churchill once said of Russia that the vast country was "a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma". Much the same can be said of the real estate market.

The big question in the UK at the moment is, just what is happening? August has been one of the most active on record, and this following a rather busy July. So, after the dark and dreadful credit crunch months, what on earth is going on? After all the ‘real estate experts' seem to think that the market could take many years to pick up again. But then what do they know? Where were their warning voices when the credit crunch first happened?

This underlines the fact that nobody can really be a true expert forecaster in real estate. We can expertly play the hand we are dealt, and we can skilfully help buyers and sellers to make the best of the prevailing conditions. But to try and out-guess the real estate market is an entirely different proposition.

So, if we aren't going to be foolish enough to try to foretell the future, at least we can try to understand the present. What the gurus couldn't factor in was the behaviour of the house buyer and seller when crisis turned to opportunity. Neither group is silly. Homeowners understand that there is a strong chance that the market has hit the bottom and now the only way is up. So the longer they wait the more they may get for their property. Buyers, on the other hand, are keen to buy now as they anticipate that this is the perfect time to purchase. Indeed, latest figures for the UK show that residential real estate is now at its most affordable for thirteen years.

The recent property activity is a riddle, and the mystery of where things will go next does lie within the enigma that is the market. But one thing we do know: those astute buyers and sellers do understand a thing or two about supply and demand. Reluctant sellers mean a dearth of real estate coming onto the market and that, in turn, is stimulating a level of activity that is now causing competition between many buyers. Hence the recent surge in property activity. In some areas this means multiple offers and even rising prices against the run of play and certainly against the forecasts.

So, what a great position to be in. Don't sell and you will make money. Buy now and you will make money. It's win-win and that is a concept that should be no riddle, mystery or enigma to anyone.

SOLAR ENERGY MYTH BUSTERS: Why You Should Invest

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:34:57 -0500

In my quest for continuing education in living "Green", I discovered an article written on Solar Energy and the positive rewards for taking that leap into energy change. (I'm reminded of Sesame Street's Kermit the Frog singing, "It ‘Aint Easy Being Green.) Here's an opportunity to change that myth.

Robert Alcock is the founder of GREEN Building Products. His company is local and is fighting climate change through building efficiency products and renewable energy systems. Robert believes the basic problem in the world of home energy productions systems is that most people don't know much about them.

Robert insists you can't compare the cost of a home-based solar energy system to your FPL (or local power) bill, because there is no comparison. He likens the contrast to buying a car vs. a bus ticket. Inquirers usually want to know the costs and payback for their investment. He believes where a power bill is a liability, a solar power system is an asset. Here are some facts:

A good-size solar energy system (typical for a 5KW system) is about $50K. Payback is about 12 years. (Payback from an industrial power plant is decades.)

Also, look at the cost benefits of such a system, based on California--the US's most mature solar market:

1. The state of Florida offers a renewable energy rebate of $4/watt. This equals $20,000.

2. The Federal government offers income tax credit of 30% of the system. (Approx. $15,000 based on type of accounting.)

3. Value of your home/building increases by approximately 120% of the value of the system ($60,000).

So, basically, after the initial investment of $50,000, best case scenario for the effective cost of the solar system could be earning up to $45,000 back in rebates and tax credits---or worse case scenario, the cost of the system amounts to $15,000 with values and credits.

These numbers do not factor in savings on energy bills, reduced heat absorption to the roof, resale value of the home, and the priceless value to our environment.

So, check your roof space, think over your options and best of all, calculate your years of bills paid to your local power company and ask yourself, shall I continue to invest in my local power company, or shall I invest in my own home!

Robert Alcock is available for further questions at ra@greenbuildingproductsfl.com or 954-270-1754.

FORT LAUDERDALE WELCOMES DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM L.A./SAN FRANCISCO

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:56:10 -0500

Not only is Fort Lauderdale proving to be a hot Honeymoon destination with exotic, luxury hotels like the W offering a complimentary 3^rd night's stay for free, this Venice of America is attracting tons of attention from West Coast jet-setters.

Beginning this Fall, JetBlue Airways is offering a "Trade the Bay for the Beach" campaign by adding a long-requested, non-stop service between San Francisco and Fort Lauderdale, starting November 17^th. Fall, of course, begins the "Season" for our tropical paradise. So, who wouldn't want to be here?

JetBlue's service from San Francisco compliments their non-stop Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale service since 2003. Overnight flights from West Coast cities to Fort Lauderdale feature JetBlue's complimentary "Shut-Eye Service" with a snooze kit containing earplugs and eyeshades and a "good morning" hot towel. In addition to free snacks and beverages, Dunkin' Donuts coffee, fruit juice and bottled spring water will be offered to refresh guests before landing. It is clear JetBlue takes traveling to Fort Lauderdale seriously!

JetBlue is not the only airline invested in Fort Lauderdale. Virgin America and the Broward Country Aviation Department also announced a new partnership at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Virgin America and Fort Lauderdale see this connection as an excellent corridor for tourism and job growth. This attention from the West Coast, once again, emphasizes the continuing enthusiasm for repeat travel to Fort Lauderdale.

Who knows? Perhaps, the next step will be that travelers from the West Coast will see the wisdom in owning a luxury waterfront property in our fabulous city. The value-to-dollar ratio certainly makes the prospect appealing. I certainly am available to answer any question on that possibility!

Welcome to Fort Lauderdale--beautiful, cosmopolitan and easily accessible from so many key places.

THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:15:05 -0500

The amazing properties featured below are the focus of buyer attention this week! Two waterfront properties listed at $10,995,000 and $1,995,000 have received a high level of interest. A beautiful, Brand New estate on Fort Lauderdale Beach is listed at $6,995,000. This just-completed residence is available for immediate enjoyment.

HARBOR BEACH DEEPWATER ESTATE

360± ft. Multi-/Large Vessel Dockage

One of Harbor Beach's most significant estates, this resort-style residence sprawls over an acre of lush tropical grounds overlooking serene Lake Sylvan, offering grand-scale, 20,753± sq. ft., of indoor/outdoor family living and entertaining, including a private guest house and 10 bay parking.

Web ref#: F984461 $10,995,000 £6,670,325 €7,759,347

LAS OLAS ISLES LUXURY RESIDENCE

Up to 80± Feet Deepwater Dockage

Perfectly presented deepwater estate offers casual elegance in a wonderfully bright, open floor-plan. Covered loggias with a barbecue area open to a waterfront patio with sun-splashed pool and spa.

Web ref#: F942957 $1,995,000 £1,210,304 €1,407,903

BRAND NEW OCEANFRONT AVAILABLE NOW!

Superbly located directly on the Malibu Beach of Fort Lauderdale, this fabulous Brand New three story residence offers every amenity for the ultimate in luxurious beachfront living with 70± feet of beach opening to unobstructed, ocean horizon vistas.

Web ref: F826674 $6,995,000 £4,243,649 €4,936,483

DISPLAY YOUR RESIDENCE WITH FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:24:31 -0500

I have discovered a wonderful website for identifying Florida-friendly and Florida native plants recommended by the University of Florida/IFAS horticulture experts that will thrive in South Florida landscape designs. This site features interactive information on how to easily landscape your important, real estate investment while minimally impacting our precious, natural habitat.

Visit www.floridayards.org to learn:

•1. Landscaping 101 - Offering an interactive tutorial and quiz to help get started in creating a design according to individual yard's specific needs. A photo gallery is also included to give landscaping ideas.

•2. Interactive Yard - Shows how to create an environmentally low-impact, Florida friendly yard with an interactive on-line tool for step-by-step instructions using native, low-maintenance plants.

•3. Plant Database - A veritable treasure-trove of nearly 380 possibilities for plants, shrubs, ground cover, trees, palms, vines and grasses specifically suite for your landscape.

Floridayards.org is designed to accommodate any area in Florida. Whether a do-it-yourself, gardening aficionado or an employer of a favorite landscaper, I highly recommend using native Florida vegetation to landscape your residence. Native vegetation minimizes the need for watering and fertilizing, which in turn, saves our natural resources, encourages a natural habitat for our birds, and creatures, including butterflies and humming birds, and will help return Florida, and Fort Lauderdale, to its natural state.

A GIANT LEAP FOR . . . REAL ESTATE

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:03:22 -0500

On the 40th Anniversary of the first moon landing, Nick Churton, our delightful counterpart from the London marketing office, Mayfair International Realty, reflects that the UK and US real estate markets are now remarkably similar and thinks that taking a "giant leap" in today's market may be a very good step indeed. It is my pleasure to re-post the blog for your enjoyment.

Forty years ago three brave men risked their lives to make a giant leap for mankind. The Apollo X1 mission to put a man on the moon, and go where no man had gone before, held the planet in thrall. It was the end of the ‘60s and Britain had swung for almost a decade. But, as a counterpoint to the successful moon landing, back on earth the wheels were coming off. The decade-long free spending party had come to an end.

So, no change there then - particularly as none of us really knows now what is going to happen next, any more than we did in the early ‘70s. But life and economics appear to have come full circle.

The real estate market is certainly going where it has never gone before. We are in un-chartered territory with the market very finely balanced indeed. On one hand, it could remain on its present - albeit shallow - upward trajectory. On the other we could experience the double bounce or ‘W' shaped recession, about which some economists and media commentators seem keen to remind us.

From a real estate point of view there seems little doubt that, although there is a large question mark hanging over where the market may go next, now does seem a pivotal time for home movers. If the recovery continues, the rate of increase in real estate values should ultimately rise. So now would be a very good time to buy. Were the market to slip back and values slide then it would be a smart move to sell. Moving home always features profit and loss - the financial advantage of selling almost always cancels out the disadvantage of buying, or vice versa depending on the market.

The first six months of this year have defied most market predictions. Activity has been high, and in some places demand has even exceeded supply. That was not in the script, but is a welcome sign of tentative market recovery. So, too, is the news from the house builders that they are seeing their best sales results in three years.

Buying real estate in this market may seem to some like a giant leap into the unknown: not quite like risking one's life and flying to the moon for the first time, but a bold step nevertheless. However, when weighed against some of the good signs of recovery then the bold move now may very well prove to be the shrewd one.

POSITIVE NEWS FROM THE U.K.

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:31:38 -0500

My British colleague, Annette Reeve, of Mayfair International Realty, sent me the below article in which she was interviewed for Assetz Latest Property News, a group of well-known and successful property investment advisors who deliver research and selected UK and overseas property investment solutions. I am happy to share with you the positive view UK investors have on US real estate investment.

Building up from the bottom for investors

29th July 2009

For those looking to buy property in the US, the recent vibes appear to have been promising. For months, of course, it has been possible for bargain hunters to pick up cheaper homes, as prices have fallen and the epidemic of foreclosures has led to a huge number of knock-down deals being available at auction. But now the market is showing signs of entering a new phase.

That stage is one of new growth and, to the delight of the government, it may well be thanks to some of the stimulus cash that has been pumped into the economy. That was certainly the view of under secretary for economic affairs Rebecca Blank when figures from the US Bureau of the Census showed an 11 per cent jump in new homes sales in June compared to May.

Such funding is coming in the form of grants aimed at getting less well-off people onto the housing ladder under the First Time Home Buyers' Programme, a policy that is definitely fruitful, according to Annette Reeve, a director at Mayfair International Realty.

Discussing the policy, she said: "The US government is aiding key workers at the lower end with a grant to get on the housing market. It is like anything here, if you start at the bottom it filters its way up through the market and I think that is having a good effect."

Ms Reeve commented that she hoped that both in the US and the UK the market is "over the worst", adding that there may be good reason in the States to think so.

She remarked: "Prices are down so much and you can get such good buys. Here in the UK we have got a very short inventory, which is obviously what is holding the prices up. In the US, if each month there is an X percentage increase on sales, then the huge stock of inventory that they have had around for the last few years will eventually get [used] up."

Good buys, of course, is what British investors in US property are looking for. The figures from the US Bureau of the Census indicated an increase in numbers bought from 346,000 to 384,000. It also revealed that there is a gap between the value of a new home and an existing one, with the freshly constructed dwellings costing an average of $206,200 (£124,706), compared to $276,900 for all homes.

Of course, that may reflect something about the nature of the homes concerned, not least if the grants are aimed at the lower-paid end of the market, meaning large, plush houses in fashionable areas are not going to feature heavily in the statistics. But for investors, the most important issue will be to watch for signs of a sustained rise in house buying and with it a consequent increase in prices, something that may finally confirm the revival is underway.

"ODE TO FORT LAUDERDALE"

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:26:26 -0500

Enthusiasm for Fort Lauderdale’s natural treasures reaches farther back than the 21st century. Below is part of a poem about this city, written in 1840 and featured in a Saint Augustine newspaper:

Ode to Fort Lauderdale

A reef of pure coral bounds Lauderdale’s land

Along which the sun-fish in myriads play;

With hues of the sunbeams are shells on her strand

In sparkling profusion embathed in the spray . . .

A virgin New River, to her Ocean calls,

Through distant murmurs, he woos her embrace.

Coy and modest she comes, ‘til its thunder appalls.

Then in wonder, abashed, turns away from his face . . .

I applaud our city’s (and Florida’s!) current-day residents, politicians and nature conservationists for striving to return our tropical paradise back to its natural state. Clean air, clean water, healthy animal habitats—including reefs, recycling and a focus on green living are factors for which we are all responsible—not only here, but everywhere. Here’s looking toward returning and maintaining our global environment to the point of inspiration, once more.

I wish you sheer poetry from my corner of paradise!

FLORIDA OFFERS A VACATION LIFESTYLE--EVERY DAY!

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:11:24 -0500

Not surprising, so very many of Florida's vacationers, both national and international, return to settle for keeps in the Sunshine State. (I was one of them relocating from the UK almost 20 years ago!)

First, the climate cannot be rivaled. For those who do not tolerate cold weather, South Florida offers endless summer practically 24/7. Sometimes, I have to check the calendar to remember month we're in because this fabulous weather appears on a daily basis.

The cost of living is still lower than many other urban areas. Day-to-day basics: food, shelter, clothing and transportation are more affordable.

With a serious eye on education, in just three year's time new programs and testing brought Florida's K-12 ranking to 10^th in the nation. Distinguished colleges, universities, community colleges and technical training centers continue to attract local, as well, as out of state and international students.

Florida also boasts one of the country's most sophisticated health care systems with world-renowned medical facilities.

Above all, there doesn't seem to a better reason to live in Florida other than the state, with 663 miles of beaches, is one of the top vacation spots of the world. With most residences designed to accommodate outdoor living, and the fact that every Floridian lives within 60 miles of a beach, every day is a vacation get-away.

Come and visit Fort Lauderdale. Better yet, decide to stay. Visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com and let me open the door to your next home---your new luxury lifestyle!

LIVING THE GREEN LIFE: Know Your Plastics!

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:25:38 -0500

Fort Lauderdale's Broward County is serious about being eco-friendly and recycling. Ultimately, consumers will use re-usable receptacles such as stainless steel water bottles, and glass and pottery containers at home.

Broward recycling wants to ensure we know our plastic numbers. As of this date, they center only accepts numbers 1 and 2. By October, they will finally accept all 7 numbers--great news for those of us anxious to return to a greener planet.

Do you know your plastic numbers? They are listed below:

Number 1: PET (Polyetheylene terephthalate-I know-a mouthful!) - soda bottles, oven-ready meal trays, water bottles.

Number 2: HDPE (High-density polyethylene) - milk bottles, detergent bottles, grocery/ trash and retail bags.

Number 3: PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) - plastic food wrap, loose-leaf binders, plastic pipes.

Number 4: LDPE (Low-density polyethelene) - dry cleaning bags, produce bags, squeezable bottles.

Number 5: PP (Polypropylene) - medicine bottles, aerosol caps, drinking straws, food containers-yogurt, ketchup bottles, sour cream/butter/hummus tubs.

Number 6: PS (Polystyrene) - compact disc jackets, packaging Styrofoam peanuts, plastic tableware.

Number 7: Other (no initials) - reusable water bottles, Tupperware and certain food containers.

Feel free to add these numbers to your recycling system. Not only will processing these products properly reduce landfills, but help keep our resources abundant and our processing systems to a minimum.

Wishing you sunshine from my corner of paradise and all the residents who seek to protect it!

FLORIDA IS FERTILE SOIL FOR NEW BUSINESSES

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:53:37 -0500

Florida Trend Magazine reports that Florida has been ranked fourth in the country among the friendliest states for entrepreneurs. Here are the statistic explaining why:

•1. Thirty four small business development centers as well as the Disney Entrepreneur Center make Florida their home.

•2. In 2008, Florida ranked second on the Polina Corporate Real Estate list of "Top 10 Pro-Business States." (Taxes, energy costs and right-to-work legislation comprised the considerations.)

•3. The State of Florida conducts research and identifies small business concerns so that the governor and legislators can take action on the state level to improve small business success.

•4. Florida Universities offer investors, entrepreneurs and corporate partners opportunities to publicly fund technology and product research statewide. (Attracting more than $1.5 billion in R&D in 2007 resulted in the University of Central Florida to rank seventh in the country for powerful patents-outranking Princeton, Stanford and the University of North Carolina.

Ranked sixth among the country's fifteen best tax systems, Florida enjoys:

•a. No personal income tax.

•b. No corporate income tax on limited partnership or subchapter S-corporations.

•c. No corporate franchise tax on capital stock.

•d. No property tax on business inventories or goods in transit up to 180 days.

•e. Government incentives for working training, relocation and expansion in designated rural areas.

•f. Less costly, more predictable permitting processes without compromising the environment.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are considering relocating to South Florida. Bring your new business to the sunshine state!

IMAGINE CELEBRATING JULY 4TH FROM YOUR OWN BEACH HOUSE

Julie Jones (Premier Estate Properties) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 17:04:31 -0500

Fort Lauderdale Beach, home to only 49 residences directly on the sand is a private enclave properly dubbed, the "Malibu" of Fort Lauderdale. Imagine enjoying the July 4^th fireworks from your own beachfront residence. I represent two of these incredible offerings which I would like to share with you:

First . . .

3008 N. Atlantic Boulevard is the ultimate, casual beach house, warm and inviting with a floor plan designed to capture picture-perfect, palm-fringed vistas over white sands leading to wide, blue ocean vistas. This property also offers excellent rental/income potential. ML#: F874443. Offered for $3.495M.

Next . . .

2408 N. Atlantic Boulevard is currently the only brand new construction directly on the sand finished to the highest standard of luxury for a sophisticated beach lifestyle. This Mediterranean-inspired oceanfront estate comprises three stories, enjoying expansive views from extensive terraces on each level, as well as a roof-top observation deck. ML#:F826674. This property is offered for $6.995M.

Imagine beachfront views and vacation living every day, doubly enhanced when the holidays arrive. Please allow me to open the door to either of these residences for you, today!

From my corner of Paradise, I wish everyone a safe, happy Fourth of July.