Brevard County Real Estate News, Sandy Shores Melbourne FL Realtor

Homes for Sale - Easy to Show - Are you Kidding?

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:22:14 -0500

Motivated Sellers! Easy to show! See it today!

Bring an offer! Owners are Anxious! Can close in 30 days!

Move right in! Don't miss this one! Vacant!

SO THEY SHOULD BE EASY AND ACCOMODATING TO SHOW - RIGHT? Well not always!

I have been working with out of town buyers in trying to help them find a home that suits both their wants and needs. They have been looking at homes for the past 3 days. We have probably seen over 20 properties. And, some have been absolutely gorgeous!

My customers have very limited time, as they will be leaving to go back home in the next day or so.

My biggest hurdle in their home purchase, so far, is in being able to get access to homes in the MLS to get in and show them.

Now, the last time I checked, here in Brevard County we were in full blown buyers market. There are currently an overabundance of homes available for sale. As the buyer is considering a purchase in the $500,000 price range some of the properties being considered have been on the market for over a year and more!

We have seen homes with market times of 711 days, 202 days, 1215 days, 367 days, 431 days, 549 days, 611 days, and one has been on the market for over 2300 days! Need I go on?

And some of the prices have been reduced by over $100,000.

Unfortunately, the market in the past several years has been declining and I understand that sellers have been trying to adjust to that market decline. Some are chasing the market. And, some have their hands tied, because they owe more than they're worth - so they are short selling them.

So, my thought is that sellers and listing agents should be doing cart wheels to get a buyer in to look at their home!

Most have been more than accomodating to our wishes. However, about 1/4 have been a bit challenging in setting up showing appointments.

In requesting showings, I have gotten responses from listing office and agents ranging from:

'Could you do it 2 days from now? Today, really isn't a good day.'

'Oh, you want to show the house at 11:00? You know 6:00 tomorrow would work out much better for me, could you do it then?'

'My seller's house is really dirty right now, could you make it sometime next week?'

'No, tomorrow between 10:00 - 12:00 isn't going to work. You have to be there between 5:15 and 5:30.' (For me, showing an out of towner a new area that spans for 20+ miles, with a 3 day time frame, it would be impossible to guarantee a 15 minute window of time. Heck, I could be in another city during that time frame!)

I called the listing agent's office and was told that I needed to contact the list agent. I've had 3 agents that NEVER EVEN RETURNED MY PHONE CALL (after talking to their offices twice and leaving 2-3 messages for them). So, we never got in to see those 3 homes.

'I really don't know what the showing instructions are, it's probably an electronic lockbox -just go out there, knock and see what happens. It could be a combo lockbox though. But I don't know what the code would be.' I questioned this and ask for more info. No, I can't really say, just go and see if you can get in. I asked if they could call the list agent -no she isn't available on weekends!

'I haven't been able to reach the owner, so just knock first and use the lockbox. And by the way, be careful for the big dog in the house!' ----ARE YOU KIDDING ME???? NO THANK YOU!

'No, it requires 24 hour notice.' I called 16 hours in advance and was told no. The buyer wasn't sure he wanted to be bothered with this and we didn't know where we would be or where our schedule would take us in 24 hours. Sometimes with out of town buyers we don't have 24 hours to give them in advance notice. Then I called 18 hours in advance 'no, I told you 24 hour notice!' This time I called with 28 hours notice, 'Yes, that time would be perfect.' So, I set up all my other appointments around that one. Then got a call back. 'The owner has changed their mind, could you do it 3 hours later?' (WHAT????? BY THIS TIME I'M ABOUT READY FOR A RUBBER ROOM!) "I would have to meet you there, the sellers don't want anyone stealing anything out of the house!!"

I HAD A PHENOMENAL AGENT THAT MET ME AT ANOTHER LISTING, DOWN THE STREET AND HAND DELIVERED THE KEYS TO HER PROPERTY! UNBELIEVABLE -SHE WAS INCREDIBLE!

Maybe it's just me. Silly, but I think that if a house is in the Multiple Listing Service for sale, then I should be able to get my buyers in to see it. And, I do understand, there are times that are not convenient for a seller. But, come on, let's be somewhat accomodating.

My thought is, 'if this seller is this unaccomodating at this early in the game, then how will the buyer ever be able to make an offer that they will accept?'

Maybe that's why some of these homes have been on the market for over a year!

Passing Along the Friendship Ball

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 21:16:57 -0500

The FRIENDSHIP BALL Has Been Passed Along ... (Members Only)

The Friendship Ball rolled in my door and across the floor and came my way.

It was generously passed along to me by Marie Meyer. Thank you Marie. I think Marie is terrific!

Marie Meyer

Marie is a dedicated blogger here on Active Rain. Her posts are informative and often times very, very funny. She also gives pointers on how to use Active Rain and things to remember in being a member. I think Marie is great and I'm so happy to have her as an associate. I love the great comments she makes on my posts!

And now I am passing the friendship ball to ...

Fred Chamberlin

I didn't hesitate for one minute knowing exactly who I would be passing the friendship ball to. In my opinion, Fred Chamberlin writes one of the most informative blogs here on Active Rain. He blogs regularly and he always includes information on what the state of the economy is, how it affects the mortgage market and he throws a shred of humor in also. On a regular basis, I copy Fred's blogs to a sheet of paper and use the information as a desk reference for the future. I look forward to reading Fred's blog. And he seems to be such a kind man!

Nancy Larson

I enjoy reading Nancy's blog here on Active Rain. Her posts are a bit provocative and racy. Her posts cover a wide range of topics. Nancy is instrumental in pulling the reader in, asking for their opinion and making them think outside of the box. You never know what her next article is going to be about, so I'm interested in tuning in. Keep up the great job!

Dancing for a Cure for Breast Cancer

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 19:58:56 -0500

My daughters, Stef and Sam just came back from performing in a fund raiser to help the fight breast cancer. The Palm Bay High School dance team director had all the local high schools and dance companies come together to raise money for the fight against breast cancer.

My daughters are on the West Shore Junior Senior High School dance teams here in Melbourne Florida. The Junior Varsity and the Varsity teams both performed at the event this afternoon.

This is the first annual dance to help fight breast cancer. Hopefully, we will all be able to come together for many years to come to bring more money to the cure for cancer.

Melbourne Beach in Brevard County Florida

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 06:27:05 -0500

The south beaches in Melbourne Beach in Brevard County Florida are absolutely gorgeous. There are many ocean to river communities. Some boast private beach access as well as private river access. In this community you can have the river just steps from your back yard and the beach just steps from your front door.

I wanted to share some of the beautiful sights I saw yesterday while out showing houses with clients.

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

Tortoise Crossing in Melbourne Beach Florida

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 05:53:28 -0500

Yesterday, I again spent the day with buyers from South Carolina, looking for a home in Melbourne Beach Florida. It was a gorgeous day for the most part. Later in the afternoon the sky got dark, and we got caught in a rain shower that lasted for about 30 minutes. The sky continued to threaten that it would open up again and drop more rain on us, as we wrapped up our day.

We saw so many beautiful sights in Melbourne Beach here in Brevard County Florida, my clients asked me about wildlife in the area. Well, it seemed to be at our every turn.

This little guy had us worrried, because he was walking down the side of the 2 lane highway A1A and we were afraid that he we going to be hit by a car. So, we moved him a distance away from any traffic.

It seems that since Tropical Storm Fay, which brought some areas over 25 inches of rain, a lot of these little creatures have become displaced. I have seen many walking in or around the roads, lately.

We saw about 25 of these birds hanging around a pond in an ocean to river community pond.

This bird was watching the local fisherman at Sebastian Inlet State Park just minutes from Melbourne Beach. He was waiting for his next meal.

Sebastian Inlet State Park in Brevard County Florida

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 07:34:03 -0500

Yesterday I spent the day out showing houses with clients that came in from South Carolina. We headed down Highway A1A here in Melbourne Beach in Brevard County Florida. We dodged raindrops all day. The sun would peek out from behind the clouds for a couple of minutes and then the rain would come rolling in. I had heard that there was a depression in the tropics that was lingering over us. All in all we were fortunate to have stayed fairly dry.

Towards the end of a productive day, we headed down to Sebastian Inlet State Park, just minutes from South Melbourne Beach. I love visiting the park and spending a day with my family when we can get down there. It wasn't too hot, and the sun was just going down. It was mesmerizing.

There are so many things to do at the park. You can go to the beach and go swimming, surfing or just enjoy the sun. We like to bring a picnic lunch and spend the day. You can go surf fishing in the ocean, surf off one of the jettys or you can head to the other side of the park and enjoy the beautiful Indian River lagoon. There is canoeing and kayaking and people bring their boats. Sebastian Inlet Park is a beautiful place!

The Importance of Great Curb Appeal in Selling Your Home

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 07:18:03 -0500

A large percentage of home buyers decide whether or not to look inside a house based on its curb appeal or exterior appearance. What they see when they drive by or arrive for a showing sets an immediate impression and often determines if they want to come inside.

First, You Have to Get Detached

We are all proud of our homes, but when you are getting ready to sell it, you must try to detach yourself from the home and remember this is going to be a business transaction. Try to look at your house in the same way a potential home buyer may.

The next time you come home, stop across the street or far enough down the driveway to get a good view of the house and its surroundings.

What is your first impression of the house and yard area?
What are the best exterior features of the house or lot? How can you enhance them?
What are the worst exterior features of the house or lot? How can you minimize or improve them?
Park where a potential buyer would and walk towards the house, looking around you as if it were your first visit. Is the path clean and tidy?
Start making a list of your positive and negative feelings about the property's appearance.
Take photos of the home's exterior. If you have a digital camera, view the color versions first, then switch the photos to greyscale, because it's easier to see problems when color isn't present to affect our senses.

In the evening and the weekend do a driveby on the house again. Stop across the street, as you did before.

Lighting is Always a Plus

String low voltage lighting along your drive way, sidewalks, and around landscaping elements.
Add a decorative street lamp or an attractive light fixture to a front porch.
Solar versions of outdoor lights are quick and easy to install, but only work when they receive full sun each day.
Lighting that's visible through front windows should enhance the home's appearance.

Don't Forget the Rear View

Buyers doing a drive by will try their best to see your back yard. If it's visible from another street or from someone's driveway, it should be addressed as well.

Curb Appeal Starters

Kill mold and mildew on the house, sidewalks, roof, or driveway.
Pressure wash siding and decks.
Keep sidewalks and driveways clean.
Stow away unnecessary garden implements and tools.
Clean the windows and gutters.
Mow the lawn regularly. Get rid of weeds.
Rake and dispose of leaves, even if your lot is wooded.
Edge sidewalks.
Trim tree limbs that are near or touching the roof.
If you can budget it, a fresh paint job does wonders.
A more attractive front door...or replace doorknob hardware...or repaint /stain the door and polish the hardware?

In Real Estate Investing You Don't Get Rich Quick Overnight- As Many Learned

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 07:44:47 -0500

I have been a landlord since 1996 and for the most part I enjoy it. As in anything else in life, sometimes I run into a snag. Most tenants I have are really good, hard working people. Occasionally one becomes a thorn in my side, but I suppose that goes with the territory.

My broker has been in the business for nearly 50 years and he has owned investment property for all of those years. Thus, our company, M & M Real Estate Inc here in Brevard County Florida deals heavily with clients in helping them buy, sell, rent, own and manage investment property.

Owning rental real estate is not for everyone!

Many people believe that real estate is a get rich quick scheme. I don't believe that! And we have seen the fallacy of that theory when everyone was buying at the peak of the market. Everyone jumped in because they were following the crowd.

I believe that in real estate estate you create wealth over time. You must buy property and hold it. You cannot get rich overnight. Few do. And often the ones that do, get greedy, as we saw over the past several years, and they quickly lose their fortune.

Let me qualify my statement by adding that there are some successful investors and contracting companies that have a crew of workers, that can get in and out of a property, after completing the necessary repairs, and make a profit. Some have the skill and experience to know which properties to look for, which areas to buy in and what repairs can be cost effectively completed. These investors and contractors are professionals and have perfected their system in time. They know the importance of the saying that "Time is money." And some are earning a decent living.

In being a landlord, if you're weak at heart, or if you aren't handy, real estate investing may not be right for you.

If you have a problem with the word "NO" then it definitely is not for you!

I have seen many easy going, happy go lucky people get into the business, thinking it is going to be a piece of cake. They rent to friends and people they know. They let their tenants get further and further behind on their rent. THIS IS A RECIPE FOR DISASTER! And they take tenants in that they feel sorry for! BAD IDEA!

It's not a popularity game, it is a business.

You must be firm and be able to say that enough is enough. Some don't realize that it is a lot of hard work and it can be time consuming, sometimes.

I began purchasing rentals 12 years ago. And I remember people asking my husband, my father and I why we were buying those 'little rental houses.' Today, even with the rollercoaster ride that our real estate market has seen, my properties today are worth 2 to 3 times what I paid for them 8 to 12 years ago.

IN REAL ESTATE INVESTING, YOU DO THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT EVERYONE ELSE IS DOING!

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

Free Admission to Walt Disney World on Your Birthday!

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:46:12 -0500

Walt Disney World is just a 40-50 minute drive from our home here in Melbourne Florida here in Brevard County.

I love driving over to Orlando and visiting one of the many theme parks there.

Disney has announced that beginning in 2009 they will be offering FREE ADMISSION to the Magic Kingdom on your birthday! You must provide proof of your birthday upon registation. Log on here to register. You must have a valid registration confirmation with proof of birthdate.

This is a $75 savings!

And if you've decided to head over to the Magic Kingdom for a day, then be sure to check out this website. It is full of oodles of discount coupons to use on your trip.

Will Some Sellers Be Offering Owner Financing to Help Move Their Home off the Market More Quickly?

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:23:46 -0500

I know that times are tough. Will it get tougher in the coming weeks and months ahead, before it gets better?

None of us really knows what the future will hold for any of us.

We have just heard that Bernanke has dropped the Fed funds rate down to 1.5%. Will that bring confidence to the market?

We have heard that banks and lenders have tightened their guidelines on lending money for mortgages. How tight will it get? Will it be harder for buyers to get loans or are we just bringing some "normalcy" back to our mixed up markets?

We have seen many creative marketing tools being used to help sellers move their homes more quickly off the market.

So, is it time for owner/seller financing to make a comeback?

Or has it already come back in some areas of the country?

A large number of homeowners are not in a position to offer favorable financing options to potential buyers in the market. Many are going into foreclosure or short sale.

But, owners that purchased more than 5 years ago and own their homes free and clear may be excellent candidates to offer a buyer a low rate, owner financed loan. Essentially the owner agrees to hold a purchase money private mortgage on the home. The buyer makes their mortgage payment to the owner, instead of an outside lender.

Ten years ago, I purchased several rental houses with seller financing here in Brevard County Florida. The sellers and I were able to work out favorable terms for both parties. I paid those loan payments every month for years, until interest rates dropped and I refinanced the loans for lower interest rates, and paid those seller financed loans off.

Considerations of owner/seller financing for a seller*:

The owner may be able to sell the home more quickly, than a home that requires a new first mortgage from a lender or a bank.

Often qualifying is easier for a buyer on owner financed homes. It depends on the seller's criteria.

The owner typically gets a sizeable down payment upon the sale of the property.

If the house is an investment property, then capital gains can be deferred on the home. The owner must only pay gains yearly on the amount they receive, as they receive it. They don't have to pay gains in one lump sum in the year of the sale* (please check with your accountant).

The seller receives monthly principal and interest payments. Thus, they may net more for the home over a period of time, because the buyer is paying interest on his principal loan amount.

Typically, the interest rate on an owner financed property is a bit higher than lender rates, because of the favorable terms of the loan and no closing costs to the buyer, and the riskiness of the loan.

REMEMBER:

There is a certain amount of risk involved in holding a private mortgage for a buyer. Owner financing will not allow a seller to completely walk away from a property at closing. The seller will still have a long term relationship with the buyer. If the buyer does not pay the mortgage, property insurance or the taxes, the seller may be forced to foreclose.

Considerations of owner financing for a buyer*:

Often times easier qualifying than going to an outside lender.

Typically, no closing costs, that are otherwise required by a lender.

May be able to purchase a home that a lender with tight restrictions would not have lent you money on.

REMEMBER:

Owner financed homes may require a more substantial down payment than a lender financed property.

*Please be advised, I am not an accountant. Owner/seller financing is not for everyone. Please discuss your indivdual situation with an accountant to determine what the best course of action for you is.

So, will we see a comeback on seller financed homes?

Or have sellers in many parts of the country already offering it?

Open Houses At Night...Are they Effective?

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 08:31:33 -0500

Attendance at open houses on homes for sale here in Brevard County Florida has slowed to a crawl. Many REALTORS are finding that they are not drawing the crowds they were in the past. Some REALTORS have noted that they haven't had a single visitor to their last open house; not even a neighbor!

So, REALTORS are trying to throw in an added twist.

REALTORS are opting to hold houses open in the evening, during the week, after people get off work.

How will that work? Will it make a difference? Will attendance increase? Do buyers like them better?

Is this just another way that REALTORS are catering to the changes in our market? And catering to the needs of their buyers and sellers?

As a REALTOR, many of my listing appointments are scheduled in the evenings at the convenience of sellers. And, often times I work with buyers on weeknight evenings. My other evenings are spent enjoying my teenage daughters many school functions.

So, are REALTOR open houses effective during weeknight evenings or are they a waste of time?

Does it depend on the type of home being offered for sale?

So, next time you go out looking for a home, be sure to wear your jamies and bring your flashlight, your pillow and your toothbrush!

Beautiful Kingsmill Subdivision in Melbourne Florida

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:56:56 -0500

Kingsmill Subdivision

Lake Washington Road

North Melbourne, Brevard County Florida

Kingsmill is a conveniently located subdivision close to shopping, dining, restaurants and gas, yet tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the "city". The 323 homes in Kingsmill are situated on 1/4 acre to 1/2 acre well apppointed lots. The area is well maintained. Kingsmill boasts 2 community parks. Homes are typically from 1500+ square feet to just over 2000 square feet of living, built between 1986-1989. The primary home builder is Maronda Homes, with some custom homes built on 1/2 acre lots by Joyal Construction and Tiffany Construction.

Kingsmill is centrally located, just minutes to shopping, dining, schools, Lake Washington, the Maxwell C King Center for Performing Arts, Wickham Road, I-95 and US1. Walk to groceries, shopping and fast food.

Homes for Sale

Address	Bedrooms	Baths	Pool	Living sq ft	List price	Year
2434 Kingsmill Ave	3	2	No	1554	$ 154,900	1987
2805 Nobility Ave	3	2	No	2248	$ 174,499	1989
2698 Majestic Ave	3	2	No	1930	$ 184,900	1989
2615 Kingdom Ave	4	2	Yes	1806	$ 199,000	1988

Homes Under Contract

Address	Bedrooms	Baths	Pool	Living sq ft	List price	Year built	Contract date
Currently none					$

Homes Recently Sold

Address	Living sq ft	List price	Sale price	Sale date	DOM
2667 Kingsmill Ave	1744	$ 159,900	$ 131,500	09/30/2008
2413 Nobility Ave	1720	$ 164,000	$ 162,000	09/30/2008
2833 Nobility Ave	1839	$ 179.000	$ 175,000	07/31/2008	14
2416 Nobility Ave	1692	$ 189,900	$ 179,900	05/30/2008	44
2629 Kingdom Ave	1978	$ 229,900	$ 215,000	05/30/2008	70
2528 Nobility Ave	1742	$ 179,900	$ 179,900	12/27/2007	23
2601 Kingdom Ave	1690	$ 229,900	$ 180,000	12/20/2007	231
2794 Kingdom Ave	1593	$ 199,000	$ 185,000	12/13/2007	13
2795 Empire Ave	2008	$ 189,900	$ 184,500	12/07/2007	33

Read the most recent Kingsmill Grapevine

These listings are being offered through various real estate companies in the Brevard County Multiple Listing Services. These properties are not being offered through M & M Real Estate Inc. nor were they sold through M & M Real Estate. This information was obtained through the Melbourne Association of REALTORS MLS.

If you would like additional information on properties in Kingsmill, contact me at 321-253-4545.

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

I Can't Pay the Rent Because I Have to Pay My 16 Year Old's Cell Phone Bill!

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 12:09:55 -0500

Well, here it is, the 4th of the month already. My tenant's rents are due on the 1st of each month. I have a provision on my lease that allows each tenant a grace period, until the 5th, to still pay without a $35 late fee.

I enjoy being a landlord. However, I don't like it when tenants aren't honest with me. And, they all know that. I tell them at move in, "If you ever run into a problem, and you know that you aren't going to have the rent on time, just call me and we'll work it out. Everyone has a problem sometimes."

After being a landlord for 12 years now, I think I'm pretty upfront and straightforward. I tell them, "don't play games with me, that's when we'll start having problems." And for the most part, my husband and I feel fortunate. The majority of our tenants are honest, hard working people that are easy to get along with. I really like them. And some are finding it tight in today's economy.

I don't like playing games and if I haven't heard from one of them by the 5th of the month, they know one of us will be on the phone to them or knocking on their door. If the tenant doesn't pay, the mortgage still has to be paid. That just means we have to front the money, until they do pay.

Last month I got a phone call from one of my tenants. She has called the last several months also.

"Sandy, I just wanted to let you know that I won't be able to pay the rent this month until around the 30th. I have other things to take care of."

Well, anyone that has rented from us for any period of time knows that we will not let the rent carryover from one month to another. That is an absolute recipe for disaster! I have never done it and I won't start now. If they get that far behind, 99% of the time, they will never be able to catch back up again.

"Well, what's the problem that you're having?" I responded.

"Well, my 16 year old son (that won't go to school) went over his cell phone minutes this month and his bill is over $400, so I have to pay it, otherwise it will be cut off. I have some birthday gifts to buy. And, I'm behind on my electric bill, they are threatening to disconnect. So, you'll get the rent around the 30th," she continued.

This is not the first time I have received a similar story from this particular tenant.

I responded politely, "I appreciate you calling me ahead of time to let me know what's going on. HOWEVER (and that's a big HOWEVER), I suppose it really isn't going to matter if your 16 year old son has a cell phone, your friend gets her gifts or whether you have electricity, if you no longer have a roof over your head!"

"WHAT ARE YOU SAYING Sandy!!!!!?????," she shouted.

My resonse, "I suggest you rethink your priorities. You have until the 10th of the month to pay me the rent, otherwise, we will have no choice but to begin eviction proceedings."

ON THE 10TH OF THE MONTH SHE PAID HER ENTIRE RENT, INCLUDING HER $35 LATE FEE.

I haven't heard whether or not her 16 year old son's cell phone or her electricity was ever shut off, or whether she was able to purchase those gifts.

West Shore Dance Team Helps the Fight Against Breast Cancer

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 11:17:00 -0500

The West Shore Junior/Senior High School Dance team here in Melbourne Florida will be joining efforts to win the fight against breast cancer.

On Sunday, October 12, 2008 the West Shore Dancers will join other local high schools at Florida Institute of Technology. The schools will all be performing on stage, in an effort to raise money for breast cancer. The event is being sponsored by the Palm Bay High School Dance team and will be held at 4:00.

Enjoy Quaint, Quiet Pineapple Avenue in Melbourne Florida, And Don't Speed!

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:43:47 -0500

Here in Melbourne Florida local law enforcement gets pretty serious about motorists speeding.

Pineapple Avenue is a beautiful shaded street that runs parallel to the Indian River Lagoon on the east and US1 on it's west side.

There are many older homes still standing. And, there are a handful of large, newer homes that have been built recently that enjoy the beautiful views of the Indian River. Pineapple also boasts an old historic bed and breakfast and the old school building.

But, when driving down Pineapple Avenue be sure that you follow the speed limit to enjoy the sights. Otherwise, you will be pulled over and you will be ticketed. The Melbourne Police takes this very seriously, as they want to keep their residents, children and pets safe, driving through this quaint residential area.

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

Buyers, Be Sure to Do Your Own Homework Before Buying that Home

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:46:25 -0500

Today, there are many homeowners in precarious positions, financially or otherwise. Some must sell ASAP! Do some occasionally become flexible with the truth, inadvertently or not, to that buyer that falls in love with their home? Or do some just forget about a problem lingering in the home? Hopefully not, but unfortunately some do.

"Oh, no, I don't know what those stains on the ceiling are, but the roof has never leaked."

"No, we have never flooded here."

"Electric bills, oh this house is completely energy efficient."

Today, it is important for buyers to be proactive and do a good bit of research on their own, before considering the purchase of a home!

This is especially important on homes being sold in AS IS condition. And what about foreclosures? THERE ARE NO SELLERS, so it is important to be extra cautious.

Typically, in the sale of a home, a seller is required to fill out a Sellers Property Disclosure indicating any problem areas that a home may have. These items may include items that can be seen and especially items that cannot be seen by the naked eye.

It is always recommended that a buyer request and pay for a home inspection through a certified licensed contractor, before proceeding ahead with their financing on the home. Have him go through the home with a fine tooth comb, and check for any problems.

Have your home inspector look at that roof to see if there is a problem leak. If needed, have a licensed roofer check the integrity of the roof.

Here in Florida, REALTORS recommend that homeowners get termite inspections on a property they are considering buying. Our soil here in Florida is conducive to termites. We often kid, and say that, 'In Florida, it's not if you get termites, it's when you get termites.' Termites cause billions of dollars in damage a year.

A licensed pest control inspector can determine if there are termites in a home. They can also see if a home has previously been treated for termites. If it has, go back and ask for the previous history of the termites. Where they just treated? Are there receipts showing where the damaged wood or studs were fixed or replaced? Were pictures taken of the repair work?

What about the area? Is it quiet? How are the neighbors? What about the quality of the schools?

Check these items out for yourself. Do your own homework. Go door to door and talk to the neighbors. Drive the neighborhood first thing in the morning, after dinner and over the weekend. Do your own research. Call the school system and visit the schools and see for yourself.

In the current buyer's market sellers are often facing long market times, with few potential buyers. Occasionally sellers inadvertently forget to mention a problem with the home that could potentially cost the buyer thousands in the future. The time to find out about these items, is BEFORE you purchase the home, not AFTER. Then, it's too late.

And, don't forget to do your final walk through inspection on the home you are purchasing a couple of hours before you go and sign the closing documents.

A REALTOR May Need to Bite Their Tongue Before Answering that Buyer's Question

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 10:00:31 -0500

A REALTOR can be a wealth of knowledge to a prospective buyer.

REALTORS build relationships with customers and often buyers feel as if they can talk to them about anything.

Due to fair housing laws there are many questions that REALTORS cannot answer.

For example REALTORS cannot comment on-

- demographic statistics, such as the cultural make up of a neighborhood.

- sex offenders in a neighborhood.

- crime statistics in a neighborhood.

REALTORS are forbidden from steering a buyer to or away from a specific area.

In our area of Brevard County Florida we have seen such a population boom that our school districts and boundary maps have continually changed over the last several years. So, when a buyer moves to a specified area, we are uncertain as to whether their home will be included in their school district of choice the following year. Thus, we have been informed not to discuss school districts. We refer the buyer to the Brevard Public School System Website, in our area. The site is full of statistical data on all the schools in our area.

Many counties have their own school system websites. There are even websites available that will tell which addresses are within a given school district. You can find them on my website.

REALTORS are in a position to refer their customer to the necessary websites to help them find the information that may help them make a decision to suit both their wants and their needs. One such website is City Data. It is packed full of statistical data on any given area. Crime stats for an area can be found here, also.

A REALTOR can refer a client to the National Sex Offender Registry Website for sex offenders in an area.

So, the next time a buyer asks a REALTOR a question that they are unable to answer, remember, there is an abundance of excellent information available online today.

Over 10,000 Fires Occurred due to Unattended Appliances

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:39:32 -0500

Fire Prevention Week is October 5 to 11th.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 10,000 fires occurred in 2005 due to unattended appliances. The next leading causes include misuse of portable heaters and overloaded electrical outlets.

In 2005, a friend of mine lost everything in a fire. A $2.00 extension cord, got pinched between the wheel of a TV table and a bamboo rug. A 5 gallon jug of gas standing nearby ignited and the house and her belongings were a total loss.

So during fire prevention week we are reminded to:

> Make sure your house has smoke detectors, in the hallway and near the bedrooms. Be sure to test smoke detectors every 6 months to be sure batteries are still working.

> Make sure there is no clutter around your water heater.

> Keep cigarette lighters and matches out of reach of children.

> Do not leave the lit stove unattended.

> Be sure that lint traps and dryer vents hoses are cleaned regularly.

Take a few minutes to look around your house and see what you can do to make it a little bit safer.

What Does Your Mailbox Say About You?

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 11:24:38 -0500

Mailboxes are everywhere...everyone has one. Some are big, some are small, some are ugly and some make you turn your head as you drive by.

Some make you smile.

Is a mailbox a reflection of the person that lives in a house?

Do you even have an individual mailbox where you live or is it in a block of boxes? I suppose it depends on what part of the country you live in.

Don't mailboxes all serve the same function? To hold your bills until you get home to take them out?

Some people get their mail everyday. I know people that only check their mailbox once a week.

Do people that have fun mailboxes enjoy getting their mail more than, say, someone who has a plain mailbox?

Sometimes mailboxes bring us good news, cheer, happy family news, but not always.

I just have a plain mailbox painted a creamy yellow, just like the color of my house. Does that mean I'm plain and not fun? Hmmm...have to think on that one.

If it were up to my 13 year old it would be painted bright red. She's already asked me twice if she can do that. I'm sure the homeowners association would love that!

Is there anything special about your mailbox?

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

Experts Say that A Home Comprises 50% of a Family's Wealth - What???

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:39:25 -0500

I recently read that experts say that a person's primary residence accounts for over 50% of their property and financial "savings" for owners in their 60's.

Today, that can be a scary prospect.

Everyday, we have been hearing about the troubled times our country is facing. The government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Then the fall of Lehman Brothers, Merrill Lynch, AIG and WaMu, what or who will be next? The government is trying to come up with a plan to help bail us out. No one knows what lies ahead.

Remember the tech stock market? All of those companies values were based on over inflated numbers on botched balance sheets. Those were never true values, except to the people that sold during that time and walked away with a pocket full of money. Then the bubble burst.

Then came the real estate bubble. Was that any different than the stock market bubble? I think not. Weren't the values of homes at the peak of the market in 2005 based strictly on over inflated values on f paper? The only owners that truly reaped their wealth were those that cashed in and sold their homes during that peak in the market. Those that didn't sell gained nothing, except maybe higher taxes and insurance premiums.

Many of those that bought, got stuck.

So, if it's true that 50% of an owner's financial "savings" is found in their primary residence, and our real estate market is going through a time of correction in certain parts of the country, an owners wealth may be dwindling down to nothing (if they aren't already upside down or going into foreclosure).

These are scary statistics in today's uncertain times.

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

Enjoy a day of Fun in the Sun here in Melbourne Florida!

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 18:22:02 -0500

I grew up around boats. We always had some kind of boat when I was a girl. My Dad enjoyed tinkering with them. He was excellent at working on any kind of engine. And, that sure came in handy, because anyone that has ever had a boat knows how difficult it can be to keep theirs running on a regular basis.

What is the saying, 'A boat is a hole in the water that your sink money in.'

And the happiest day of a boat owner's life is the day he buys it and the day he sells it.

Here in Melbourne Florida there are so many places to go boating and/or jet skiing. Some take their boats to the Eau Gallie or Melbourne Causeways and drop them in at the boat ramps.

Others like to go over to Ballard Park, which is a beautiful setting, with picnic tables and a park. Boaters dock their boats in the Indian River there.

Lake Washington here in Melbourne is home to large mouth bass and fresh water fishing.

Boaters with bigger vessels enjoy going deep sea fishing or lobstering in the Atlantic Ocean. They drop their boats in at Sebastian Inlet, about 20 miles south of Melbourne. The inlet feeds out to the ocean.

Melbourne Florida has so many great locations to take your boat, your fishing poles, a picnic lunch and head out for the a day of fun in the sun!

Selling Your Home, Should Family Photos Stay or Go?

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 01:03:18 -0500

Ihave mixed feelings on this, which is typically not like me. But, when placing a home on the market, should the personal, family photos stay in the house or should they go before the house goes on the market?

Maybe as a seller this thought has never entered your mind. Put my family photos away to sell your own home...what do you mean? Why? What's the big deal? Well, it depends on who's looking at it (or should I say; looking at them).

When placing a home on the market a REALTOR's job is to make the home appeal to as many buyers, as we can. Today, many homes are professionally staged. Kudos to all of you professional stagers, you make our job so much easier! Those that aren't staged are typically critiqued by the listing agent, prior to the sign going up. The idea is to clear out as much "excess stuff" and to neutralize the furnishings in a way as to appeal to the broadest range of buyers that we can. And many times the feeling is...if there are an excess number of personal, family photos, THEY MUST GO or at least the majority of them must go! I feel that it is fine to leave a couple of photos out.

During a showing, we ask that the seller not be home when a buyer is looking at the property. We want the buyer to feel as warm and comfortable in the home as possible. We want the buyer to "see and feel" himself living there. If the seller is there, the buyer often feels uncomfortable being in someone else's place. And, if the buyer walks through and it is "filled" with family photos, it can make it difficult for some to envision themselves living there.

In the past I have kindly asked a number of sellers to "thin out" some of the pictures in order to make the home more buyer friendly. I have received responses ranging from polite and agreeable to flaming red hot. One seller told me in no uncertain terms would she remove any of her nearly 75 family photos. I thought I would be escorted to the door!

I have been in a number of homes that felt as if all eyes on the wall were staring at me. In some cases, it scared buyers off. So what is a seller to do?

Should the personal photographs stay or go? You tell me...

Passing the Friendship Ball

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 20:11:44 -0500

The Hope Ball

The object of the game is to tag two people you'd like to share its friendship message with who you'd like to share with others on AR .

Copy and paste the Friendship Ball, write something about your nominee(s) and send them a message to announce they've been tagged, Then they will get to pass it along to two others using the same (copy, paste, post, send message) process.

Received the Friendship Ball from Teresa Berry

I love Teresa's energy and her smiling, cheery attitude! Teresa and I share many of the same REALTOR networking sites together. I look forward to passing a client along to Teresa sometime in the near future! I look forward to personally meeting Teresa someday!

Teresa Berry, Seattle WA

Read Teresa Berry's Blog

Now Nominating:

Ann Hayden in Wildwood MO
I met Ann here on Active Rain. I love the exchanges we share with our funny comments back and forth. Ann has a great sense of humor - which we so often need in this crazy business of ours. I appreciate the smile that Ann brings to my face.

Gabe Sanders in Stuart FL I have just recently met Gabe here on Active Rain. He is a Florida neighbor. I enjoy reading Gabe's blog and I like to keep an eye on his property listings so that I am able to stay abreast of what our neighboring real estate markets are doing. Thanks Gabe, for the useful information. Keep up the great job!

Are You Looking for A Child Friendly Neighborhood in Melbourne Florida?

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:00:22 -0500

The thought of buying a home can be a daunting task. And finding the right one can take some time.

Do you have children? How old are they? Do you want to live in an area with other children?

How do you know if there are kids in the Melbourne Florida neighborhood you are considering?

Drive through areas that you are considering in your search for a home. But, be sure to drive through between 7:00AM and 8:00AM on a weekend. Is the area bustling with activity? Are kids on their way to the bus stop? Is there are park nearby?

Then drive through the same areas after work. Try to go through after 5:00PM and see if there is anything going on in the area. Try after dinner, after 7:00PM. How active is the neighborhood?

Make sure you check the area on a Saturday morning, on garage sale day. Often times that is a great time to find out who lives in the neighborhood.

Look for the signs of children...Are there toys outside in yards? Is there a park in the neighborhood? Are there basketball hoops?

How close are the local schools to the area you have an interest in? Does the bus pick up and drop off in the neighborhood? What schools are the students attending.

Often we find that resale value is excellent within excellent school districts.

Visit my website at www.SandyShoresMelbourne.com

I Left My Umbrella at Home Today...

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:21:30 -0500

I left my umbrella at home today because the weatherman said that there was only a 20% chance of rain. HMMM. I have been peeking around raindrops all day today and I haven't seen the sun sneak out from behind the dark clouds yet. Now, I question what city the weatherman was forecasting on..

What a great job...being a meteorologist! There is so much room for error, and the weather can quickly change.

As a REALTOR, there is not a lot of room for error. Big mistakes in real estate could mean a loss of thousands of dollars to a buyer or a seller.

I love being a REALTOR. Every single transaction that I do is different from the previous one and will be different from the next one. No two are the same.

The real estate business requires a REALTOR maintain their continuing education, as well as have a strong grasp and comprehensive understanding of the current market.