If you are trying to become a HOMEOWNER before the June 30th Tax Credit deadline, did you know that you can use your Utilities bills and rent to help you buy your next home.  Banks and Brokers everywhere are tightening their criteria to qualify and if you don't have at least 3 accounts with a 12 month history on your credit report, you need to do some fast thinking or you could lose the home of your dreams.  Furthermore, with home prices reaching new lows and rates near their historic lows, another opportunity like this may not ever come.

How to find good "non-traditional credit"

If you pay cash for most purchases, never finance a vehicle, or grandma told you to never ever use a credit card, then you may need our help.  People that don't have at least 3 items that report to the major credit bureaus are going to get their loans turned down.  But don't give up hope, there is a solution, we just need to verify some non-traditional credit.  When it comes to non-traditional credit, the account must be in your name, primarily because you need to obtain a "letter of credit" from them which lists your name and often the credit vendor (the company that the credit report is ordered from) needs to do an independent verification with that non-traditional creditor to be able to add it as a supplement to the original credit report (often something that lenders want).  The account must be current, although closed accounts can further support the 3 current non-traditional trade lines.  As far as the rent you pay, must be documented by cancelled checks or bank statements with the exact amount being withdrawn on/around the same day each month.

Some credit is better than others

There are basically two groups, group I credit is weighed much more heavily than group II credit, although group II credit is still accepted by some lenders today.
 
Group I - rental housing payments (subject to independent verification if the borrower is a renter), utility company reference (if not included in the rental housing payment), including gas, electricity, water, land-line home telephone service, cable TV. If the borrower is renting from a family member, request independent documents to prove regularity of payments, such as cancelled checks.
 
Group II - insurance coverage, i.e., medical, auto, life, renter's insurance (not payroll deducted); payment to child care providers - made to a business providing such services; school tuition; retail stores - department, furniture, appliance stores, specialty stores; rent to own - i.e., furniture, appliances; payment of that part of medical bills not covered by insurance; Internet/cell phone services; a documented 12 month history of saving by regular deposits (at least quarterly/non-payroll deducted/no NSF checks reflected), resulting in an increasing balance to the account; automobile leases, or a personal loan from an individual with repayment terms in writing and supported by cancelled checks to document the payments.
 
Scott Hoag
Licensed Mortgage Broker
Gulf & Southern Mortgage
5521 38th Ave N
Saint Petersburg, Florida  33710
Office Phone- 727-344-3995
Cell Phone- 727-644-3656
scott@livinginstpete.com

Many clients that want to buy a home are not able to meet the requirements of Underwriting because they do not have ANY credit or NOT ENOUGH crediit.  I can show you how you can build a credit report and help you get financed to buy that home you want.

 What is a "thin credit file"?

Quite simply, thin credit file means you do not have 3 items on your credit report that are open and active and have a 12 month payment history.   Some people pay for everything with cash because it keeps them from over spending, or they don't want to pay interest or fees to finance something.  While those are effective ways to save money, you can't buy a home with a mortgage if you can't prove that you can borrow money and pay it back consistently.

Where can I find out what my credit looks like?

 Everyone is entitled to a FREE credit report once per year (http://www.annualcreditreport.com ).  You NEED to do that every year to make sure everything is accurate.  When you do a loan pre-qualification, we need to run the credit report and we can also view it that way.  The problem with waiting until your loan pre-qualification for a credit pull is once you have that pulled, most errors take 30-45 days to get removed.

HOW do I build BETTER and/or NEW credit?

When I get your loan application, and have determined that we need to work on credit score OR ifyou have a thin credit we have a 4 step plan:

1. ANALYZE- I will usually run our ONLINE Credit Analyzer with you that runs an infinite number of hypothetical scenarios to help you determine which items that need your attention are. 
2. PAY You may be asked to pay down the credit cards and
3. NEGOTIATE- if you have older non-medicalnegotiate the older collection accounts  WITHOUT paying.   
4. BUILD- Remember to keep building new GOOD credit.  
   1. Adding to a mother or family members  account is good.
   2. Getting more good credit in BOTH names if possible is GREAT!  

Where Can I Start a NEW credit account with little to no credit

It's never too late to build credit.  If you only got 1 or 2, try to do another today!

Capital One
 
Easy and fast are Capital One, they do NOT offer secured cards, but they have the Classic card...link below.   http://www.capitalone.com/creditcards/products/details/?sol=11170&tc=17&credit=3&linkid=WWW_0608_CARD_TGUNS01_CCBRWALL_C3_02_T_CP17017LW
 
OR
http://www.orchardbank.com   here is a link to Orchard Bank secured card 
http://www.landing.orchardbank.com/1/2/media/disclosure?cmd_lpage=&indicator=OB088&media=O5IS102DAX0805000601HPHHX&WT.ac=CRS_IM000601

We often receive frantic calls from homeowners because they've called the bank after having been served with a foreclosure lawsuit, only to hear from the bank's representative that "Your foreclosure sale is December 22, 2009." "How can that be?" the borrower thinks, "The lawsuit was first filed on November 12, and I've received nothing by mail from my lender." In this blog, we will explain why this happens and what borrowers can do about it.

When the bank refers a case to its attorney, they require that attorney to stay within certain timelines. The speed and efficiency within which the plaintiff foreclosure firm can complete the foreclosure action, or the average time within which they can complete all cases referred to them, determines how many cases will get referred to that firm above their competitor plaintiff firms.

Although all lenders have their own internal timelines, one example is:

Pursuant to this timeline, the lenders expect that the foreclosure will be complete between 140 and 150 days. Further, the lender automatically creates this timeline upon referral of the case to its counsel so that they can track and monitor their attorneys' speed and efficiency. Accordingly, the lender knows that if the file is referred on January 1, 2010, then the foreclosure sale should be on May 5, and all occupants evicted by May 21.

The problem is that each individual foreclosure action will vary in length based upon a number of factors: the judges' or courts' calendars (given the volume of foreclosures today, some judges have a wait time of between 3 and 4 months to get time on their hearing calendar); the number of defendants and their ease in being found (the more defendants or defendants who live out of the county where the case is pending may increase the time needed for service of process); foreclosure sale dates granted by the judge of 60 days or longer; and attorneys who file motions to challenge the lender's foreclosure action on any number of legal grounds. When the actual timeline varies from the lender's anticipated timeline, conversations like the one described above occur between lender and borrower because the lender's computer system shows the anticipated timeline rather than the actual timeline.

What can borrowers do about this? First, do not panic. Second, consult with an attorney who is familiar with the foreclosure timeline and the lenders' practices to come up with a plan to either save your home, or get rid of the house with minimal liability owed to the lender. Finally, inquire with an attorney as to whether this practice by the lender is a violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) or Florida's Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA). Pursuant to those two laws, it is improper for the lender to misrepresent any facts about your debt in furtherance of the collection of a debt. Clearly, telling a borrower that their foreclosure sale is set for a date certain that is physically impossible given the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure would violate both the FDCPA and FCCPA. However, as these types of cases are very fact specific, you should consult with an attorney before coming to any conclusion that the lender's actions violate either of those two laws.

If you know someone who is facing foreclosure, and they contact the lender for information and the lender gives them a "foreclosure sale" date that seems unreasonable, it likely is based on an anticipated rather than actual timeline. That homeowner should follow up with the Clerk of Court, or a Florida licensed attorney before jumping to the often inaccurate conclusion that the sheriff is going to take their house away sooner than Florida Law allows.

-Shawn M. Yesner, Esq.
  Yesner & Boss, P.L. 

FHA Rental Income Evaluation for Home Buyers

I have a client that is buying a new home and they will be renting their old one.  They were surprised that they could NOT use the income because they didn't have enough equity.  Here is a quick update on the guideline for using rental income.

The following documentation must be provided to be able to use the NEW rental income from the home the buyers are moving out of:

1. A lease agreement signed by the borrower and the lessee/tenant for at least 12 months
2. Evidence of the security deposit and/or evidence that the first month's rent was paid to the borrower.
3. Vacated property may have a maximum 75% LTV or less supported by a current appraisal that is no more than six months old or by comparing the unpaid principal balance to the original sales price of the vacated property.
   1. The appraisal may be:
      1. Fannie Mae Form 1004/Freddie Mac form 70
      2. Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac Form 2055 exterior only appraisal report
      3. Fannie Mae form 1075/Freddie Mac Form 466 for condominiums.

I know it helps to have a quick guideline at your fingertips.

Hope this helps you,

Scott

A VA Home Loan is one of the best loan options for home buyers, especially those that have not purchased before. 

If you were waiting to buy a home because you were having trouble saving money, the VA Home Loan has a solution.  They still offer a $0 Down Payment home loan.

How do they do $0 down home loans

This year the VA Home Loan program will receive $6 Billion in funding. This funding creates one of the only options left for a $0 down payment home loan, which is why each month, thousands of families take advantage of their VA Home Loan Benefits.

Since the government subsidizes your home loan, it provides a variety of benefits such as:

• Eliminate Mortgage Insurance
• Purchase with $0 Down
• $8,000 Tax Credit for First Time Buyers
• Lower Monthly Payments and Sometimes Lower Interest Rates
• Easier Qualification Standards
   

Why Does VA Home Loan have lower payments?

When we calculate the monthly cost of a VA loan and compare it to our FHA loan there is a large benefit for veterans.  FHA Home Loans require payments of as much as .55% per year and those payments must be included with the monthly payment for five years.  For example, for a $100,000 loan, a buyer would be charged an additional $550 per year.  With the VA Home Loan, the monthly fee is $0.  That saves Veterans $2750!

First Time Buyers Get an $8000 Tax Credit until June 30, 2010

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 authorizes a tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first time buyers who purchase a home in 2009. A VA Loan Specialist from our office will be able to help you determine your eligibility for this tax credit.

The advantages are real. A lower monthly payment, easier qualification guidelines and the ability to purchase with $0 down make a VA Loan the best option for first time home buyers that qualify.

HOME BUYER LOANS

Gulf and Southern Mortgage offers loans to qualified applicants who wish to purchase and occupy new or existing homes within the St Petersburg, FL city limits. Home buyer assistance loans can be used for down payment, closing costs and / or interest rate buy down.  These loans are offered at 0% interest and are either repaid at 0% interest up to 10 years or deferred for 30 years.  Repayment determination is based on the applicant's median family income (MFI), as define by HUD. (see below)

Eligible housing includes single family homes, condominiums or town homes with a maximum purchase price that does not exceed $215,555 for new or existing homes.

**** Before of February 1, 2010, the amount of the city's home buyer assistance loans is based on the MFI of the applicant's household as follows:

An additional $10,000 is available to borrowers who purchase homes located in the City's Special Assistance Areas (see attached SAP_Map.pdf)

**** After of February 1, 2010 those numbers are going to change to

And NO additional money will be available to the City's Special Assistance Areas. (see attached SAP_Map.pdf)

FISCAL YEAR 2009-Effective March 19, 2009

HOME BUYER GRANT PROCESSING PROCEDURES

Homebuyer loan processing and underwriting procedures have been modified to assist you in servicing our customers faster.  To assure timely loan closing, it is essential that all required information listed on the attached REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION be provided with OUR loan package for grant consideration.  If these procedures are followed, you can expect to close the loans within three weeks from the date that the FULL and COMPLETE application package has been received by our office.

SUBMISSION PROCEDURES:

•$                   Application Addendum must be fully completed, signed and submitted with the Gulf and Southern loan application package,

•$                   All loan packages will be required to include an appraisal, and a home inspection completed by appropriately certified individuals or company.

•$                   The Rehabilitation Officer will review the appraisal and home inspection report, included in your loan application package, for deteriorated painted surfaces and housing quality standards.  If the appraisal and/or the home inspection report indicates ANY deteriorated painted surfaces or if the loan includes any modifications, repairs or replacements of a painted surface, and if the home was built prior to 1978, then a lead inspection will be required if the loan goes forward.  Our grant policy demands the elimination of any lead hazard from homes funded by our grant.  If the buyer or seller declines the lead inspection,  we cannot assist in any way.

HOME BUYER GRANT DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

Prior to closing or as soon as we can obtain them, we will also need:

Scott Hoag
Licensed Mortgage Broker

Gulf & Southern Mortgage
5521 38^th Ave N
Saint Petersburg, Florida  33710

Cell Phone- 727-644-3656

scott@livinginstpete.com

FHA condominium project approval changes delayed until December 7, 2009.

FHA's new policy guidance for condominium project approval has major changes pending.  They were going to be in effect as of October 1st and were delayed until November 1st.  The latest news is that no changes will take effect until December 7, 2009.

FHA notice on delay in FHA condominium changes: Implementation of FHA's new policy guidance for condominium project approval and condo unit financing will be delayed until December 7th 2009.

The new guidance, to be issued within the next two weeks, will:

• offer additional leniencies to address the difficult market conditions
• augment some portions of FHA Mortgagee Letter 2009-19, providing additional information and clarification.

Until the new guidance takes effect on December 7th, 2009 lenders may continue to use the Spot Loan Approval guidance issued in Mortgagee Letter 1996-41.

Further, the site condo and manufactured housing condo project changes that have already been implemented are not affected by this delay.

2009 has been a great opportunity to find and buy Real Estate at a discount.  One of the best options for people has been the bank-owned home and foreclosure market.  In Florida, we have found that because of the large number of foreclosures, prices are low and inventory is high, so people have found that a home that sold for $500,000 is now available for $200,000, $250,000 homes sell for $100,000, and $150,000 for $75,000.

Essentially, there are three different stages at which you can buy a foreclosure property. Investors and homebuyers can purchase a foreclosure property in the first phase of default - before a foreclosure auction takes place. Secondly, investors can purchase a property in at the public foreclosure auction. And finally, a foreclosure property can be purchased from the bank or lending institution if no one bids at the public sale and the bank repossesses the property.

Once a property is repossessed by a bank or lender, the property will probably be listed for sale through a real estate agent. Good buys are available, but they require research, preparation, patience and persistence. Buying a bank-owned home in foreclosure isn't easy, and it's hardly without risk. Before you consider plunging into the foreclosure market, be sure to do some in-depth research.

Here is a list of things you can do to successfully purchase a bank-owned REO: 

1. Inspect Property.

Most foreclosure properties are referred to by investors as "distressed" properties. Bank-owned foreclosure homes are usually sold "as is," which means that the 15 percent discount you just saved on the purchase price can easily be eaten up by unforeseen expenses - such as repairs not immediately apparent in an exterior inspection. Many owners of homes that go into foreclosure have been struggling financially, which usually means that the house has not received needed repairs or general maintenance for a while. Some homeowners who lose their property to a lender frequently damage the property. So be prepared to do renovations and repairs. Hire a licensed home inspector to give you a written estimate of the cost to repair the property. Budget that number into your purchase price. Repair costs can be used later in your negotiation with the bank to reduce the asking price. 

2. Title Search.

Once a home has been located, search the public records for liens and outstanding taxes. You can perform a preliminary check of title on RealtyTrac and then hire a title company to run a full, insured title search before closing the deal. Liens on the property can drive up the purchase price. Common liens typically are placed on a property for unpaid loans borrowed against the property, taxes or unpaid contractors (mechanics liens). These liens remain intact until the money is paid, which means that you may have to pay off the liens on the foreclosed property you are buying - even though you're not the one who didn't pay the property taxes. Banks should clear the title before selling but never assume this is the case - just as you would if you were buying a property from anyone else.

3. Negotiate.

Investors should be prepared to negotiate a lower down payment, a lower interest rate, a reduction in closing costs and a lower asking price. Many lenders may be willing to waive some closing costs, maybe even offer a break on the interest rate or the down payment. Moreover, some lenders might offer to finance the property at a below-market rate or with a lower-than-usual down payment. Don't be afraid to ask for a better price and favorable terms.

4. The Offer.

Although most banks want to unload their foreclosed properties, they won't necessarily do so cheaply. So you aren't guaranteed a fabulous price. But remember you're dealing with an eager seller. Even though the bank's REO manager or their listing agent might suggest that the list price is "firm," never be afraid to negotiate price - especially if the foreclosed bank-owned home needs repairs. When submitting a low offer, you need to substantiate the reduced price in writing and document your case. You should furnish photographs and cost estimates for repairs to support your offer amount. 

5. Financing.

With good credit, many banks will loan the full price of the foreclosure or more. If the home is to be used as a rental, many banks will require only a 10 percent down payment. Foreclosure investors with a large amount of equity in another home may get a line of credit from their bank to purchase a foreclosure. When they convert the line of credit to a mortgage, no down payment may be required.

How does my home inspection affect my mortgage?

As a Mortgage Broker, we require a disclosure to be signed at application that reminds all of our clients that for your protection, you SHOULD get a home inspection.  If you have trouble finding one, or don't know anything about home inspections, then this information should be helpful to you.

If the wrong home inspector gets involved, you could have trouble with a "FAST inspection" that doesn't tell you what type of maintenance will be required on the home OR even worse in some cases, "TOO MUCH information inspection report", that details even the tiniest flaw and scares you away from buying a perfectly good home.

Most appraisal companies that are chosen by the lender require the inspection report to be given to them if one was performed, and if your report is TOO PICKY, then we may not be able to secure financing.

What is the difference between inspection companies?

The only device some home inspection companies have to offer is a low price (remember, you get what you pay for) or a "warranty" (considered phony by most inspectors). If you choose based on what the inspector does (provide a real educational experience) you will be happier. It is a good idea to call at least 3 companies.  Good companies try to have the buyer there if possible- like to have them with him. 

Increase the chances of your being satisfied with the home inspection by choosing an inspector with a minimum of five years of home inspection experience who has personally performed a few thousand home inspections.  No matter what job you hire a person to do, experience counts.   When someone has a background in building homes, construction or a related field they generally have a better knowledge of what things are supposed to look like, so I always ask them to tell me what they did before they were home inspectors.

Questions I ask when talking to home inspectors.

How many inspections have you done?

How long is your report?

Do you go in attic, roof, crawlspace?

How long do the inspections take?

On the inspection, you can ask the scope of the inspection, most will check the following:

•   Climb up on the roof

•   Crawl through the attic and crawl space

•   Open the electrical panel

•   Check the furnace heat exchanger (FHA requirement)

•   Look for wood borers and rot - wood close to earth has an increased risk of wood borer and rot damage. (FHA requirement)

•   Check for toxic substances

•   Operate all the appliances and equipment

Also find out if the company will report on potentially dangerous or harmful elements, such as:

•   Unlined fireplace flues

•   Aluminum general lighting circuitry

•   Un-vented gas space heaters

•   Toxic substances like asbestos

•   Inadequate combustion air or clearances to heating equipment

•   Recessed and overheating light fixtures buried in attic insulation

•   Inadequate insulation

•   Overextended electrical systems

•  Un-tempered glass shower doors

•  Restrictive ventilation in attics and crawl spaces.

•  Evidence of previous termite treatments

When receiving the report, make sure they will....

•  Put your property into perspective by comparing it with its peers (i.e., homes of similar vintage, material usage, intent)

•  Summarize the major points of concern and the significant qualities of the property

•   Identify potential remodeling problems, such as materials containing asbestos; electrical systems which cannot be expanded to accommodate a new kitchen; and old galvanized plumbing supply pipes which will not deliver an adequate supply of water or may leak

•   Inform you about amateur workmanship or substandard maintenance, or advise when to consult an expert to look more closely at suspected problem areas

•   Detail the maintenance for all the components of the home

Home Inspection Companies:

Ask your REALTOR for a recommendation- Home Inspection companies will typically work Real Estate Agents very closely and your agent will probably be present at the time of the inspection, so they will have a 1^st hand account of how detailed the Home Inspector is. Make sure you check with your Realtor to see if they have a reliable inspector that has earned their trust.
___________________________________________________

Kevin Dowd- Westcoast Inspections

727-439-2285

kdowd@tampabay.rr.com

FHA approved 203(k) consultant
Can also do Wind Mitigation and 4 point Insurance Inspections

_____________________________________________________

Steve Zimmer - Gulf Coast Inspection Services 

Phone:  727-458-4616

szimmer@tampabay.rr.com
 
http://www.ashi.org/homeinspectors/Florida/Redington%20Shores/2256JJ/
 
Based out of reddington shores
18 years- Certified by ASHI and SBCI 1991 for county 
Was in construction business for 6 years
________________________________________________________

Steve Majko- Mako Residential Services

Phone:  727-743-4082

http://www.Makoresidential.com

Licensed contractor - does re-models
Does about 3 inspections per week
Also can do 4 point inspections

________________________________________________________

Hope that helps you find a home that not only looks great, but is sturdy and safe for you and your family.

Scott Hoag
Mortgage Consultant

Office:  727-344-3995
Fax:  727-347-5297

Gulf & Southern Mortgage
5521 38th Ave N
St Petersburg, FL  33710

Celebrate the 4th!

Independence Day parties abound throughout the St. Pete/Clearwater area. Take in a parade, enjoy a picnic and watch fireworks from the beach or take in some live music, no one does the 4th of July like St. Pete/Clearwater.

OTHER LINKS TO AREA ACTIVITIES

 4^th of July Celebrations and Fireworks LINKS for Saint Petersburg, Clearwater and Gulf Beaches

2009 - Highlight on St Pete celebration

2009 - Clearwater, Beaches and Pinellas County celebrations

Patriotic Music

God Bless the USA (Lee Greenwood)

Fast Cars and Freedom (Rascal Flatts)

Only in America (Brooks and Dunn)

American Soldier (Toby Keith)

Born in the USA (Bruce Springsteen)  

Our Country (John Mellencamp)

Pasted from <http://www.us1035.com/common/celebrate/>

Clearwater Celebrates America

Spend the afternoon at the park. Overlooking the beautiful intercoastal waterway at Coachman Park, this Independence Day celebration features the Mostly Pops Orchestra with John and Mary K. Wilson at 7:30 p.m.. A spectacular fireworks show will follow at 9:30 p.m. This all-American family event includes children's activities, food and beverages for purchase and exhibitor and sponsor booths for browsing. Admission is free and gates open at 4 p.m.
www.myclearwater.com.
Coachman Park
301 Drew. St., Clearwater
727-562-4700

4th of July Extravaganza at The Pier.

A full day of fantastic family activities await you at The Pier. Starting at 1pm on the east courtyard, sing along with your old favorites with live music by the Cool Daddies. Or, step inside to catch the alternating characters of a one man circus. And, don't miss your chance to be a star in your own free dance video with the "Dance Heads". If you've never tried a drum circle, this is your chance. Get into the beat with one of the available free drums or bring your own. Live music continues with the popular rock band "Save The Radio" until 8pm. For the perfect view of fireworks, grab a spot on the observation deck and watch the spectacular show over the water. Starting at 9pm. Free to attend.
For complete details and a schedule of event times, please check www.stpetepier.com
The Pier
800 2nd Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg
1pm to 11pm
727-821-6443.

Rays vs. Texas Rangers

What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than with America's favorite pastime. Bring your blankets and chairs or use theirs, The Pier will have an outdoor big screen showing of the game that takes place in Texas, starting at 8pm. Rays fans won't want to miss this! Food and beverages are available at the food court and Pier restaurants. No coolers please.
The Pier
800 2nd Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg
727-821-6443
www.devilrays.com

Largo 4th of July Celebration
Come early to get a good spot on the grass. DJ led music will start at 7pm with interactive kids activities close to the stage. Fireworks will begin at 9pm. Parking is available on site and free. No alcohol, pets, or personal fireworks.
Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Drive, Largo
www.largoevents.com

Get to Gulfport

Enjoy a real home-town Fourth of July in the quaint city of Gulfport. Throughout the day a diverse variety of vendors line along Beach Boulevard while food vendors are set up along intersecting Shore Boulevard. Live music fills the air. And, the colorful old-fashioned parade is led by the Mayor and also includes many community groups participating. Cap that off with a fabulous fireworks display off the pier and it's a fun all-day event for the whole family to enjoy. Free.

4TH of July U.S. Constitution Boat Parade

Enjoy a patriotic, fun filled Rally that will kick off the First Annual Fourth of July U.S. Constitution boat parade. Gather at Gators Cafe, the festivities will start at noon.
There will be music and prize drawings throughout the afternoon. Decorate your boat - Show it off - Wave Flags! Or, just watch the boat parade sail by just after 3:00 P.M. Sit back and enjoy this extravaganza of patriotic boats passing before you. The two boats that best represent an Article OR Amendment of the Constitution will receive a prize.
Gators on the Pass
12754 Kingfish Dr. on Treasure Island
www.constitutionparade.com

Beach Fireworks

Madeira Beach

Promising a traditional show ending in a spectacular finale of lights, this event is expected to have a duration of 20 to 30 minutes during which 3,938 rounds of premium display fireworks will be set off. The display will be fired from the city recreation park on Rex Place next to the City Hall complex.
Madeira Beach
300 Municipal Dr., Madeira Beach, FL 33708

Redington Shores
Situated in the heart of the beach communities, Redington Shores has an expansive beach and is famous for its long pier. The fireworks display will take place Saturday, July 4 shortly after dusk in the County beach park.
Redington Shores
182nd Avenue and Gulf Boulevard

St. Pete Beach

Bring your blanket and a picnic basket and settle in for the evening to enjoy fireworks at the beach. Launched along the Gulf of Mexico, you'll enjoy the show starting at dusk. Free.
St. Pete Beach Access Park
4700 Gulf Blvd., St. Petersburg Beach, FL 33706

Treasure Island
Enjoy a great BBQ while enjoying fireworks on the beach. Bring your chair or blanket. Fireworks start at 9pm. Free.
Treasure Island Beach
10400 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706-4815
www.treasureislandchamber.org

Freedom Fest in Pinellas Park
Why wait till Saturday to celebrate? Friday's Freedom Fest will have live Christian music, food, crafts, kids' activities and fireworks from 2-10 p.m. in Town Square Park Plaza. Saturday features a laser show.

Patriotic Picnic in Tarpon Springs
Enjoy a hometown picnic in Craig Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m featuring live music and family-fun activities like a bubblegum blowing contest and sack races. Free hot dogs, soda and water will be provided.

Safety Harbor July 4th
Celebrate in an activities area with carnival games, inflatables and a rock wall on the lawn of the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. Fireworks display at 9 p.m.

Fireworks in Dunedin on July 3
Party island style at Dunedin's Knology Park with music by the De Lei'ed Parrots and children entertainer Shana Banana. Tropical attire suggested. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.