Inside Tampa Bay Real Estate

MotionVR Tour Technology is the next best thing to being there.

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:28:00 -0500

Tampa, Fl June 23, 2008.
Thinking of putting your house on the market and trying to find a way to stick out from the crowd of homes on the market? Well you might want to try Motion VR. MotionVR has developed a leading edge proprietary technology that is redefining today's 360º online virtual tour business, and which has established a "first-of-its-kind" marketing tool. Unlike standard low-tech 360º panoramic tours, MotionVR provides online visitors with a "walk-through" tour allowing viewers to obtain a real perspective of what they would actually see if visiting a property or facility in-person. I've started to offer this to my higher priced properties and the results have been positive. But don't take my word for it, you can click on the click below and test drive it yourself.

Click here to see the amazing new tour technology

The above link is one of my newest listings that is currently on the market for $2,640,000. It's a stunning Marc Rutenberg Model home is Hawk's Landing. This Marc Rutenberg Castaway Grand Model Home was the Tampa Bay Builders Association Parade of Homes Grand Award Winner in its introductory year. You can click on the link to actually walk through the home with the aid of this virtual tour. If you would like to tour the home in person please contact me for directions and Model home hours.

Clear Sky Beachside Cafe on Clearwater Beach, Fl

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 28 May 2008 15:49:29 -0500

Clearwater, Fl. May 28,2008.
Finally, a Clearwater Beach eatery that satifies both vacationers and locals alike. During our latest trip to Beach and the Sandpearl Resort we discovered a new beachside cafe that is getting great word of mouth from locals and vacationers. The Clear Sky Beach Side Cafe is a charming friendly place to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner as you enjoy the cool beach breezes coming off the gulf and live steel drum music at night. My kids and I loved going there for breakfast and highly recommend the pancakes. I would also recommend the Two Egg Breasfast for a very reasonable $4.50. Having tried nearly 10 different items on this menu, I think you would be hard pressed to find something on this menu that isn't simply delicious. The pizzas are fanastic and I recommend the California Pizza with cream spinach, applewood bacon, mesquite chicken,mozzarella,roasted garlic, artichokes,avocado and roma tomatoes. For a lighter pizza try the "Sky" pizza with goat cheese, marinara sauce, roasted red peppers and grilled veggies. Their menu has so much variety that there is something for the whole family. They have panini, sandwiches and wraps as well as full dinner entrees like N.Y.Strip, Grouper Picatta, Cedar Planked Salmon, Drunken Shrimp Penne and Pasta Pomodoro. They even have French Onion Soup served in a flakey hand rolled peasant bowl. For salad lovers there is the Spinach Salad with fried leeks, pancetta, shitake mushrooms, mandarin oranges, raspberry walnut dressing topped with fresh strawberries and walnuts. All these entrees are all priced reasonably from $4.50 to $24.95 for the N.Y.Strip. So if you would like to enjoy something other than a fried grouper sandwich and want to please the whole family then I would highly recommend Clear Sky Beachside Cafe on Clearwater Beach. They are located at right next door to the New Sandpearl Resort and their address is 490 Mandalay Ave Clearwater, Fl 33767. The owner's name is Dan Shouvlin and they can be reached at 727-442-3684.

Top three reason why buyers will miss the bottom in Real Estate.

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 15 May 2008 16:59:18 -0500

With all the talk of declining real estate prices over the last 18 months its no wonder that most buyers waiting on the fence will in fact miss the bottom of the market and end up paying more for the house they want in the future. Why will this happen you ask? In a nut shell, its the same reason most sellers didn't sell at the peak. It is the old adage "Pigs get fed, hogs get slaughtered". The same human emotion of greed works on the buy side as well. Today's buyer's are trying to time the market and therefore maximize their profits by buying at just the right time and paying the lowest price possible for their home. It's human nature and we all at some level access both our fear and greed emotions when deciding on investing our money. Now to the top three reasons why buyers will miss the bottom.

Reason Number 1.
Greed. I think buyers are becoming greedy today when making offers on homes and are walking away from some very attractive prices on some very nice affordable homes because they think that prices will go lower and if they wait they will get a better deal. This is one of the many signs that a bottom has already occurred. The best time to buy is when fear is at it's highest point. That occurred in March and April of 2008 and will probably be proven to be the very bottom of the Tampa Bay area real estate market. The window of opportunity is closing and prices have already started to level off and sales trends and buyer traffic are increasing on a weekly basis.

Reason Number 2.
Affordability. With homes prices in the Tampa Bay market down over 20% in some areas and the increase in income levels over the past 8 years combined with historically low interest rates makes affordability the lowest since the year 2000. The same factor that contributed to the decline in home prices over the last 2 years is the same factor that will help home prices bottom out this year. Another contributing factor is lower home owners insurance rates and lower property taxes. This actually is one of the lowest risk times to buy a home in the last 10-15 years.

Reason Number 3.
Rental Market. The rental market is strong and the need for housing in the Tampa Bay area will continue to grow. The strong rental market is giving seller's an alternative to dropping their prices to unrealistic levels when they can rent their home and wait out the market. As the bottom in pricing forms, sellers are less willing to sell at the bottom. Sellers are actually listing their homes for sale or lease. This is putting buyers in competition with renters looking for homes to lease. This is also helping to lower available inventory in the Tampa Bay area.

My prediction is that there will be a lot of buyers kicking themselves a year from now about why they didn't buy at today's attractive prices. The amount of buyers who will miss the bottom will probably be the same number of people that wished they had sold at the peak in late 2005. Real Estate will once again stop being a dirty word and the talk at the water cooler will start to turn positive in the months ahead. Of course by that time you will have missed the bottom.

9917 Bridgeton Dr. Tampa, Fl 33626 Home for Sale. Offerred at $379,900.

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 23:23:20 -0600

Westchase, Fl 33626 December 15, 2007

Freshly painted 2 Story Home is sought after Westchase area within walking distance to WestPark Village Shopping. This house has beautiful hardwood floors downstairs and berber carpet upstairs. Backyard features a large screened in patio with hot tub and a serene and peaceful view overlooking neighborhood pond. Newer A/C, Security System and Warm inviting Kitchen with ample counter space for entertaining. Large Master Bedroom with ceiling fan and view of pond. Value Priced to move quickly.

The gated communities of Westchase are The Enclave, The Greens, Harbor Links, Saville Rowe and The Vineyards. For a complete list of all the neighborhoods located within Westchase please visit the Westchase Homeowners Association web site. A big reward of living in a Westchase gated community is that you will generally find residents with pride of ownership who choose to keep their homes well maintained. Strict homeowner's associations will generally require each home to adhere to a higher standard of living which helps to keep property values at a high level. While this is appealing to many homeowner's, others would enjoy the freedom of not having to answer to anyone about the color of their house or their choice of landscaping. Unfortunately, with these freedoms, you may find residents who just don't want to upkeep their homes in the manner that most Westchase homeowners deserve. While not every subdivision in Westchase is gated, all have strict homeowner associations who enforce and maintain the property to very high standards.

Please visit my Real Estate site at www.TheBurkettCollection.com for more photos and information on this listing. Thanks

1580 Huntleigh Ct Oldsmar, Fl 34677 Home for Sale. Offered at $579,900

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 23:04:43 -0600

December 15, 2007 Eastlake Woodlands located in Oldsmar, Fl 34677.

East Lake Woodlands! 4/3/3 w/study and heated pool/spa home in gated Aberdeene.This house was purchased for $660k in 2/2006 and had an addtional $40k put into it after closing. Gorgeous wood floors in family room,living and dining room.Tray ceilings,crown molding,arched entrys,beautiful silestone in Kitchen. Master and Hall baths have new cabinets, and new custom build-in cabinets in family room ($26,000). The kitchen features an island with sink, 42' cabinets breakfast bar. Vaulted ceilings in the family room create a spacious comfortable area. Sliders surround the home, making the patio/pool area a show piece with a lanai with new pavers. Pool and jacuzzi have an automatic system indoors ($3,000).The large master suite invites you to relax in privacy & the master bath features seamless glass inclosed shower and jacuzzi tub & separate his/her vanities. The house is situated on large cul-de-sac lot with extra large side yard that features a tot's playground($8,000). Value priced to sell in this gated community of Aberdeen.

East Lake Woodlands consists of 56 individual associations with approximately 3,700 homes. There is an internal country club available with 36 holes of golf, tennis, swimming, dining and clubhouse facilities. The community is set in 1700 acres of pine, oak and cypress forests interspersed with 250 acres of sparkling lakes and ponds. Residents are able to walk, jog or bike within the seclusion of the Woodlands and yet be within an easy commute of local business centers, cultural activities and the best beaches in Florida. As you can see East Lake Woodlands is a most desirable place to live.

Sandpearl opens pre-Labor Day Weekend and is just what Clearwater Beach needed!

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 13:20:51 -0500

Clearwater Beach, Fl September 14,2007.

Sandpearl finally opens to the public and guests on 8/27/2007 just before Labor Day weekend. My first reaction to the Sandpearl Resort and Spa was that it exceeded my high expectations. The resort is going to do wonders to bring in a sorely needed upscale cleintele that has been lacking since the Mandalay Beach Club and Belle Harbor commuities opened in 2000 and 2004. The 253 room 4 diamond resort has all the nice touches that you would expect from an upscale Resort. I felt transported to the islands and couldn't believe that I was still in Clearwater Beach when relaxing by the beach side fire pit located just off the boardwalk near Tthe Sandpearl's Tate's Island Grill. The staff at the Sandpearl were friendly and eager to satisfy my needs and seemed very excited to be a part of such a landmark property in the Tampa Bay area. The main restaurant at the Sandpearl is Caretta on the Gulf. A world-class restaurant with a desire to please and surprise with a menu that is prepared with infusions of South American, Caribbean and other international inspirations offering a broad selection of memorable cuisine. The Ceviche and Raw Bar offers a fresh daily selection of local seafood and sushi with a wood-burning oven that opens up a myriad of rustic dining selections. A private wine room provides an intimate space for special events and tastings, with an extensive collection of wines from around the world. Caretta's inspiring surroundings are perched two levels above the beach with indoor and outdoor seating to view brilliant sunsets and gulf views. I bought a one bedroom Penthouse suite of the top floor overlooking the Mandalay channel and I'm happy with the colors, furnishing and level of service and ammenties offer at the Sandpearl Resot and Spa. I've already had quite a response from vacationer's wishing to book the suite directly through me for an $100/night discount off the Resort's quoted rates. If you would like to stay at the Sandpearl and would like to pamper yourself by staying in a suite instead of one of the regular rooms for about the same price please visit www.Sandpearlsuite.com or call Tom Burkett directly at 727.278.8062.

Waterchase Sales Report For July 2007

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:08:46 -0500

Waterchase Real Estate Report for July 2007.

As of 7/12/07 there are 52 Single Family homes for sale in Waterchase ranging from $329,900 for a 2046 sq.ft home to $1,149,900 for a 4929 sq.ft 4 bedroom 5 bath home. The avg. listing price per sq.ft is $208/sq.ft. down from $215 in May 2007 and the avg. days on market(DOM) is 100 down from 118 days in May 2007. So your avg. Waterchase home is 3,128 sq.ft in size and lists for $651,259 and is a 4/3/3. That amount is $32,643 less than the $683,302 avg. price back in May 2007 which is a decrease of 4.7%. Today, I will give you a run down on Mar Azul, Allicante and Savona. In the village of Mar Azul- There are currently 7 listings down from 8 in May 2007 and ranging from $869,900 for a 3737 sq.ft home to $1,149,900 for 4929 sq.ft. home with DOM currently at 119 down sharply from 141 in May 2007. The avg. house is listed at $249 sq.ft. down from $271 sq.ft. and has an avg. price of $949,628 which is down from $1,121,991 in March. Alicante - There are currently 6 listings which is down 1 from May 2007 and ranges from $719,900 for a 2993 sq.ft home to $949,500 for 3408 sq.ft. home with DOM 77 which is down from May's 80 DOM and listing for an avg. of $258 sq.ft. or an avg. price of $864,866. Savona - There are currently 7 listings which is unchanged from May 2007, ranging from $449,900 for a 2438 sq.ft home to $675,000 for a 3000 sq.ft. home with DOM currently at 73 down sharply from 159 DOM in May 2007 and listing for an avg. of $199 sq.ft. which is unchanged from May 2007. The Waterchase Community seems to be slightly favored toward a buyers market but is starting to firm up on the sellers side.

This report was funished by Tom Burkett with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc. To view all the current listings in Waterchase please visit me at http://www.tomburkett.com/ For the latest news and information on Tampa Bay Real Estate scene please visit my Real Estate Blog at http://www.insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com/.

Offered by Tom Burkett with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc. Call Tom Burkett, Realtor (727) 278-8062 to see inside.

Email: tburkett@tampabay.rr.com Website: http://www.tomburkett.com/

Visit my blog at http://insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com/

Waterchase is an award-winning Master Planned Community located in Northwest Tampa, Florida and is located right outside ofthe Westchase area. This is one of a few Tampa developments from Taylor Woodrow, the same group that brought us Grand Hampton in NE Tampa.

Tucked away on approximately 475 acres, Waterchase ofers homes in seven distinct villages. The well-planned community features 633 family and estate homes as well as 132 townhomes on homesites ranging from 45x120 to 90x200 feet, creating a warm, inviting neigborhood where families can grow and memories grow eve stronger. As a designated telecommunity, every home in Waterchase comes with Brighthouse Basic Cable TV already on when you move in!

Additional recreation options include the child's playground, four lighted tennis courts, half and full basketball courts, resort style pool and a two- story water slide that makes a splash with kids of all ages. There is also an all-purpose athletic field and a fitness center attached to a 6,400 square foot Clubhouse with timeless Spanish, English and French architectural influences.

Waterchase homes are built by some of the premier builders in Tampa, including Arthur Rutenberg Homes, Marc Rutenberg Homes, Nohl Crest, Ryland Homes, Taylor Woodrow and various others. Waterchase includes homes, townhomes and estate homes along with single-family homes reflecting Spanish, Ranch Hacienda and Craftsman style architecture.

Waterchase is located just 1/2 mile north of Race Track Rd and Countryway Blvd. in Northwest Tampa.

If you are considering a move to Tampayou owe it to yourself to visit Waterchase and the Westchase area as part of your home tour. The Burkett Collection at Charles Rutenberg Realty has full time team members living in Waterchase to help you with your home search!

Is a Seller's Market Closer Than We Think in Northwest Tampa?

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 15:02:12 -0500

Tampa,Fl June 20,2007.

I'm writing this blog post to ask other agents if they have started running into the same problem when they are working with buyers looking for homes in the Northwest part of the Tampa Bay area priced in the $500,000 to $1,000,000 price range. With all the bad press reports and Realtor Organization Reports coming out showing a record number of listings, where are they when I take buyers out looking. I'm currently working with over 20 buyers looking for houses and everyone of them is amazed at what little to choose from in their respective price ranges. This is especially true in South Tampa, Westchase, Waterchase and with waterfront homes over 5000 sq.ft. For an example, I currently have about 5-7 buyers looking for a one story 4/3/3 home in the Waterchase/Westchase area in the $500,000 to $900,000 range. All of them are amazed at what little choice they have in a supposely buyers market. This isn't the case however when looking at the condo market in the coastal areas. The abundant supply of new condo projects in coastal area doesn't surprise me along with their declining prices, but something seems to be happenning in the more established newer gated communities in NorthWest Tampa. Another example is a search for waterfront homes with at least 5,000 sq.ft. priced from $2,000,000 to $7,000,000 in the Tampa Bay area only returns 37 properties. If you break that down into smaller geographical areas that only leaves a hand full or less to choose from. As frustrating as this may be now, it is also a very encouraging sign of the beginnings of a turnaround in the market. Although I still think the condo market has a way to go before rebounding. I would love some feedback from other agents in the Tampa Bay area if they have been having the same problem. I know it sounds weird to read or hear about this but it is something that I have been running up against lately.

Highland Park - Westchase Area Real Estate Sales Report

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 22 May 2007 13:30:14 -0500

As of 5/21/07 there are 13 Single Family homes for sale in Highland Park ranging from $435,935 for a 2688 sq.ft home to $1,537,952 for a 4446 sq.ft. The avg. listing price per sq.ft is $220/sq.ft. and the avg. days on market(DOM) is 124. So your avg. Highland Park home is 3,282 sq.ft in size and lists for $722,961 and is a 4/3/3 home. For more info about Tampa Bay area Real Estate.

Towers of Channelside Construction Update

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 22 May 2007 12:45:19 -0500

Tampa, Fl May 22, 2007. If you are looking for the latest update of the completion dates for the Towers of Channelside, a twin 29 story complex that is being build in Channelside you have come to the right place. The Towers of Channelside are twin 29 story towers located directly across from the Channelside Entertainment District. You have probably watched them grow daily and noticed that they are nearly complete. According to the Towers of Channelside Sales Manager, Tower 2 (the tower that is closest to the parking garage) is scheduled to be completed sometime in July 2007 and closings are planned to start that month as well. Tower 1 is scheduled to be completed in September or October 2007. The Towers of Channelside advanced high-speed connections, forward thinking architecture, and progressive home systems, The Towers of Channelside have created a complete living environment offering comfort and flexibility for anyone looking for the best in Tampa Bay. The Channelside district is also home to some of Tampa's most coveted professional sports teams, including the Tampa Bay Lightening Hockey team and the Tampa Bay Storm Arena Football team. The Towers of Channelside has definitely changed Tampa emerging and growing skyline. If you are buying or selling your Towers of Channelside condo please call Tom Burkett at 727.278.8062 or visit him online at www.tomburkett.com. To receive the lastest updates on any of the Tampa bay area construction developments please visit insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com.

The Rack Lounge in South Tampa

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 21 May 2007 12:28:25 -0500

Tampa, Fl May 21, 2007. I would like to introduce you to one of the best Lounges in the Tampa Bay area. The Rack. If you haven't already discovered the Rack this gem located 1809 W. Platt St. you need to put it on the top of your to do list. Where else can you go and order chicken wings and Sushi at the same place. The Sushi at The Rack is some of the best in town and I've been everywhere in my search for the best. There is always a hip crowd and the staff is always friendly and fast. You can shoot darts,play pool, watch the latest sporting event on one of many plasma's located throuthout or just dine on a wide variety of cusine. They also have some new sushi rolls to try out. The best nights to go to the Rack are Thursday and Friday's although any night is good if you enjoy eating great tasting food. The Rack is one of my favorite places to go in South Tampa and if you go I think it will become yours as well. For more information of the Rack go to their web site at http://www.hittherack.com/ or call 813-250-1595.

Let"s put Tampa on the map!

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 08 May 2007 10:56:25 -0500

Hello Fellow Tampa Bay ActiveRainers!

Let's get the word out about Tampa Bay ActiveRainers. Tell your friends and Associates and let's grow this community. Thanks to everyone for some interesting posts and comments. Keep them coming.

Tom Burkett

What's the best way for Real Estate Investors to stay afloat in this Market?

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 08 May 2007 10:25:15 -0500

May 8th 2007, Tampa, Fl.

Remember a few years ago when everywhere you went you would hear people talking about all the Real Estate deals they were making money on and about how excited they are about their next deal? Well, today if you listen you hear people talking about what on earth am I going to do with all this Real Estate. As a Realtor and Real Estate investor myself, I'm facing the same questions. Realtor's should step up to the plate and give solid advice to thier clients thinking about walking away from deposits or how to manage being stuck in a property with either negative or no cash flow. Sure, we stand to lose some immediate commissions if the right thing to do is to walk away from the deposit and not close but if handled correctly we could also gain the loyality of a life long client.

One of the best ways to help investors stay afloat in this market is to generate income from vacant properties. Vacant Properties don't sell as fast and usually sell for a lower price. So, I suggest investors put a little money in painting the house with warm colors and furnishing the property. Then offer the home on a short term rental basis. The home will show better with furniture and furnished short term rentals are in demand right now. Also, when the home is decorated and furnished it makes it an easier tenant transition because they can move right in and out without having to move alot of furniture. How do you decide if you should spend the money to decorate and furnish the home? Just calculate the average days on market in your area and times that by your monthly carrying cost to arrive at an amount that you would spend if the home doesn't sell. Then take that money and furnish the home. This will allow you to weather the slow market and ease the negative cash flow if the home goes unsold after six months and beyond. The bonus is that you can also use the property when it is vacant for a vacation home or barter it to business cleints and or friends. Went it comes time to sell the home you can also recapture some of your furniture investment with a higher price by selling the home fully furnished and move in ready. This might not be the best fit for every investment property but it is definitely something one should look at, especially if the investment home is located in or near a vacation destination or is a condo.

Waterchase Homes for Sale Real Estate Report for May 2007

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:34:56 -0500

As of 5/1/07 there are 52 Single Family homes for sale in Waterchase ranging from $379,900 for a 2135sq.ft home to $1,599,900 for a custom Marc Rutenberg home that is 4935 sq.ft. The avg. listing price per sq.ft is $215/sq.ft. down from $220 in March 2007 and the avg. days on market(DOM) is 118 up from 112 days in March 2007. So your avg. Waterchase home is 3,171 sq.ft in size and lists for $683,302and is a 4/3/3. That amount is $14,466 less than the $697,768 avg. price back in March 2007 which is a decrease of 2%. Today, I will give you a run down on Mar Azul, Allicante and Savona. Mar Azul- There are currently 8 listings down from 10 in March and ranging from $873,900 for a 3942 sq.ft home to $1,599,900for 4935 sq.ft. home with DOM currently at 141 up sharply from 108 in March. The avg. house in listed at $271 sq.ft. down from $281 sq.ft. and has an avg. price of $1,088,852 which is down from $1,121,991 in March. Alicante - There are currently 7 listings which is unchanged from March and ranges from $719,900 for a 2993 sq.ft home to $989,900 for 3932 sq.ft. home with DOM 80 which is up from March's 54 DOM and listing for an avg. of $253 sq.ft. or an avg. price of $870,215. Savona - There are currently 7 listings down from 10 in March 2007, ranging from $449,900 for a 2438 sq.ft home to $749,900 for a 3926 sq.ft. home with DOM currently at 159 up from the 115 DOM in March 2007 and listing for an avg. of $199 sq.ft. up slightly from $196 or an avg. price of $611,071. For more info about Tampa Bay area Real Estate.

Chico's Wood Fired Grill - Westchase Area Restaurant Review

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 19:32:13 -0500

Chico's Wood Fire Grill located at 12217 W. Linebaugh Ave in the Westchase area is definitely worth the trip and they are ready to Salsa..Smoke...and Sizzle your favorite Tex-Mex dishes. This place is family friendly and is a favorite among locals in the Westchase area. The staff is always fast and friendly and Laura our server always gives us great recommendations. If you go make sure not to get filled up with the chips and salsa that come free with every meal. Although it is not that hard to do because they have the best salsa in town. My recommendation for first timers is the Pork Tacos made with slow roasted pork,mango salsa, red onion, cilantro and lime and is served with a side of black beans for $6.49. What a deal. In fact I would recommend that you try all their tacos especially the Filet Mignon Tacos. Tonight I tried the Smokin Chicken Wrap made with wood fired chicken breast, cajun spice, mixed greens, mango salsa, shredded cheese, roasted peppers, cilantro, lime dressing and crispy onions and it was excellent. My last recommendation is the Latin Barbecued Pork meal for $11.95 but you better be hungry if you order this one or you can share it with someone at your table. Chico's is also a great place to enjoy this year's Cinco De Mayo Fiesta from 3 -9pm featuring live music, drink specials, face painting for the kids and an outdoor tent. To find out more about Chico's Wood Fire Grill and see what else they offer visit them at www.chicosgrill.com or call them at 813.814.2023 and ask for Jason. This is truly a place I love to recommend because at Chico's Wood Fire Grill you come as strangers but leave as friends. They can be reached at 813.814.2023.

If you are new to the area or looking to buy or sell a home in the Westchase area please visit my Real Estate site at www.tomburkett.com or my Tampa Bay area blog at www.insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com

Ozona Blue Restaurant Review in Ozona, Fl

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 12:16:48 -0500

Last month I stumbled across a quaint nice restaurant that is popular with the locals in Ozna. You must try Ozone Blue Restaurant. An old Florida charm restaurant located at the Ozona Marina. The food, service and dessert menu are excellent. They are have flat bread pizza'sI love finding those tucked away restaurants that are hard to find. I've been in the area for almost 40 years and I just discovered it. I recommend it highly for a place to go to enjoy the nice weather and they know how to do a burger. Ozona Blue Oceanside Inc. Palm Harbor Restaurant is located at 655 Orange Street South, Palm Harbor, FL 34683 and their number is (727) 789-4540. To get to Ozona Blue just take Tampa Rd west till it t-bones into Orange St then turn left and the Marina is down about 1/2 mile on right. This restaurant is best experienced on a nice sunny day.

If you are considering a move to Tampa you owe it to yourself to visit The Burkett Collection at Charles RutenbergRealty has full time team members living in the Tampa Bay area to help you with your home search!

If you want to check out more restaurant reviews or learn more about the Tampa Bay area please visit http://www.insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com for the latest scoop on Tampa.

Samari Blue Restaurant Review- Westchase Highland Park Area

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 09:32:15 -0500

I was so excited about Samari Blue opening up and enjoyed it the first couple of times but was disappointed with the way they decorated the inside and the owners don't seem to care to much about customer service. The sushi there is excellent and the "Volcano Roll" is a must along with their spicy tuna roll, however my wife and I received very poor customer service one night when we had to wait for over a hour for a table then another hour for our food. The waitress didn't even come take our drink orders during that time and the Manager said sorry but we are very busy tonight and that was that. Has anybody else had any customer service issues there? Maybe it's just the kinks being new. Now that Zen Bistro Bar & Grill has opened in the New Shops at Westchase Village and we have dined there several times, we prefer Zen Bistro over Samari Blue. We perfer Zen Bistro because it has a better sushi selection and the atmosphere there is warmer and actually more upscale.

If you are considering a move to Tampa you owe it to yourself to visit Waterchase and the Westchase area as part of your home tour. The Burkett Collection at Charles RutenbergRealty has full time team members living in Waterchase to help you with your home search!

Dunedin Isles Waterfront Estate Fro Sale Asking $2,495,000 from Charles Rutenberg Realty

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 14:26:06 -0500

Dunedin Isles, Fl. The view from this rare large double lot in Dunedin Isles will literally take your breath away. This large recently updated 3 bedroom 3.5 bath estate sits on over a 1/2 acre of prime waterfront real estate. The quality of construction in excellent and is reminiscent of a Frank Lloyd Wright design. Large mature trees in front give the home its warm and inviting feel. The focal point of this home is definitely the large level backyard with a pool and spa that opens up to a view overlooking Caladesi Island, Clearwater Harbor, and St. Joseph Sound to the north. There is also a large new dock and deck. You must see this home and view in person. Pictures of the view do not do it justice.

This Dunedin Isles listing is offered by Tom Burkett with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc. Call Tom Burkett, Realtor (727) 278-8062 to see inside.

Email: tburkett@tampabay.rr.com Website: http://www.tomburkett.com/

Visit my blog at http://insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com/

Westshore Yacht Club- 5905 Beacon Shores Street - Asking $5,495,000

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 14:07:15 -0500

Westshore Yacht Club Bay Front home for sale located in South Tampa. This 5 bedroom 6.5 bath home for sale is over 6500 Sq. Ft. of Luxury with over $500,000 in upgrades added to an already loaded house including a $150k pool package, wine celler, wet bar, premium Bayfront lot looking Tampa Bay. The kitchen features Viking SS Appliances, 42" raised wood cabinets, granite tops and recessed lighting! There are too many upgrades to list. Call today to see. Expected to be completed by end 2007. HOA fees of $500/mo. are estimated. Actual Fees TBD upon completion of Development.

Waterchase Listing offered by Tom Burkett with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc. Call Tom Burkett, Realtor (727) 278-8062 to see inside.

Email: tburkett@tampabay.rr.com Website: http://www.tomburkett.com/

Visit my blog at http://insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com/

This Westshore Yacht Club Listing is offered by Tom Burkett with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc. Call Tom Burkett, Realtor (727) 278-8062 to see inside.

Email: tburkett@tampabay.rr.com Website: http://www.tomburkett.com/

Visit my blog at http://insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com/

Westshore Yacht Club is a WCI Master Planned Community in South Tampa, Florida and is located just south of Gandy blvd on Westshore Blvd. Westshore Yacht Club is located in historic South Tampa and within five miles of downtown Tampa, the West Shore District and St. Petersburg, and has all that city living offers from fine dining to theatre to sporting events. With its location on Old Tampa Bay, Westshore Yacht Club also presents its residents with waterfront living unparalleled. Overlooking Tampa Bay and native mangroves with nighttime distant views of downtown St. Petersburg. You can also enjoy nightly sunsets.

Westshore Yacht Club boasts a 149 slip Marina ranging in size from 40' to 100' will offer direct access to the Gulf of Mexico for the weekend boater to the serious yachtsman. The marina offers a full-time dockmaster and a ship's store inside the Bay Club. The Bay Club will feature fine and casual dining as well as a poolside tiki bar.

Westshore Yacht Club also features 2 tower residences that will feature 15 stories each. TThe Castillo is going to open this summer and the Estrella now starting construction. There will be Six different floorplans to choose from and feature "pass-through" layouts allowing the residents to take advantage of the views from their foyer throughout their home. . Castillo residents will enjoy fabulous living with incomparable amenities and unparalleled views of both Old Tampa Bay and downtown Tampa. New Castillo Model Now Available For Viewing!
Click here to see the many different home selections that Westshore Yacht Club has to offer.

If you are considering a move to Westshore Yacht Club in Tampa you owe it to yourself to visit The Burkett Collection at Charles Rutenberg Realty.

Sandpearl Resort Suite on Clearwater Beach. For Sale. Asking $699,000 or Rental

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Sat, 24 Mar 2007 12:59:56 -0500

Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater Beach Fl. This Penthouse suite is available for purchase for $699,000 or Vacation Rental and can be rented out Daily, Weekly or by the month.

For a pampering experience, This Sandpearl 1-bedroom suite features a beautifully appointed living and entertaining space with private balconies to capture the most exquisite views. Featuring all of the standard guestroom amenities, this suite also offers such premium amenities as in-room washer and dryer, full gourmet kitchen and a soothing jet tub in the Master bath. This Sandpearl Resort suite located in Clearwater Beach invites you to enjoy an intimate retreat thats perched along the shoreline with unobstructed views of Mandalay Harbor and the Clearwater Island. Relax as soothing Gulf breezes whisper through the open windows and allow our discerning staff to attend to your every need.

This top floor suite faces East and has a spectacular view of Mandalay Bay. This 1 bedroom suites has a King size bed with a sofa sleeper in the separate living room. Included is a full kitchen, dining table, and washer/dryer. Master bathrooms include a jetted roman tub, separate shower, and dual sinks. It also has 2 private balconies.

Concierge Desk
Providing the highest level of guest service, Sandpearl's professional concierges are dedicated to the needs of both business and leisure travelers. With hospitality and a personal touch, they offer a broad range of services from planning your family's trip to Disney to arranging fine dining reservations at the area's best restaurant. Stationed in the main lobby, concierges are available day and night to handle guest requests with great attention to detail.

The casually elegant settings of Sandpearl offer a range of Wedding venues for your special day. Choose our spacious and luxuriously appointed Hunter Ballroom for a formal wedding reception after exchanging vows in the dramatic Gulf-side Suite on the beach. Or say ‘I do' right on the beach and invite your guests to relax in a casual poolside reception. However you decide to begin your journey into ‘happily ever after', we will happily meet your every request

Some of Sandpearl's beautiful locales for your wedding and reception:

Gulf-side Suite
Gulf Lawn
On the beach
Pool Lawn
Cove Reception Room
Hunter Ballroom
Harbor Room

Please call me at 727.278.8062 or visit http://www.tomburkett.com/ about booking this Sandpearl Resort Suite and I will provide more information concerning future rates and upcoming availability. Sandpearl Resort will be opening in the summer of 2007. Also make sure you visit my Tampa Bay Area Blog for all the latest on the Tampa Bay Area at http://www.insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com.

New Luxury Waterfront Condo Overlooking World Famous Clearwater Beach.

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Sat, 24 Mar 2007 12:35:53 -0500

This property is for sale. Asking $995,000 or can be rented out monthly. Click here to rent.

This Clearwater Beach Waterfront luxury condo is in the ideal location and overlooks the beach on the 5th floor southwest corner at the most upscale property on Clearwater Beach. The Belle Harbor Windsong Building was completed in 2005 and sits on over 6 acres of prime waterfront property overlooking the Clearwater Harbor as well as the white sandy beaches that rate among the best in the nation. Once you get here you can park the car, because just about everything you'll want to do at Clearwater beach is within walking distance from your Private 5th floor condo. Watch the sunsets nightly on your balcony or at Famous Frenchy's Restaurant on the beach and other great restaurants. Shopping, Pier 60, water sports, deep sea fishing excursions from the Marina and many activities for kids and people of all ages are literally footsteps away. This 3BR/2.5BA, with over 2,200 sq ft features all new upscale furnishings for your comfort and two balconies with over 280 sq.

Over 2100 sq.ft directly overlooking the harbor, beach and the Clearwater Beach island. A 24 hr. guard gated, secure complex with assigned and covered parking, state of the art fitness center overlooking Mandalay Channel. Amenities: Waterfront Pool & Jacuzzi Secured and Covered Assigned Parking Billiards & game rooms 24 hour monitored security Large Upscale clubhouse overlooking Pool Full size Washer and Dyer in Laundry room King size bed in Master, Queen in Guest with private bath 3rd Bedroom has two twin beds. Stainless Steel Appliances including toaster, coffee maker, Microwave, Oven, Ref, Pots and Pans. Linens and towels, beach towels,2 portable beach chairs, beach blanket, kites and boogie boards. bicycle storage.

42' Plasma EDTV with HD channels and cable, music stations, TV/DVD combo TV set in Master, New upscale Furnishings, State of the art fitness center overlooking Mandalay Channel, 65 Slip Marina, Activities: Belle Harbor was completed in 2005 and is comprised of two high rise buildings on over 6 waterfront acres with the club house and state of the art fitness room, security and separate lounge areas in each tower which serves as a meeting area in the morning for coffee and get togethers. Belle Harbor also features a heated Pool and Spa, sunbathing deck area plus a covered area for lounging with 2 gas fireplaces and 42' Flat screen TV. Each building also has a lounge area with Billiard tables. Under Building parking plus assigned parking for guests Area: Belle harbor is located just 2/10 of a mile north of Pier 60 and is walking distance to all the amenities offered on the Beach, including the Marina where you can take over 50 different boat excursions like fishing, dolphin encounters, the Pirate Ship, Putt-putt golf or an evening dining at sea. Across the street from the city beach park and the Palm Pavilion Cafe on the beach. Tampa Bay, the Airport, Busch Gardens are within a 40 minute drive, Orlando and Disney attractions about a 1.5 hour drive.

This property is offered for Sale or Vacation Rentals by Tom Burkett with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.

For more information about renting this for your Clearwater Beach Vacation.

To contact Tom Burkett call 727.278.8062 or visit http://www.tomburkett.com

Waterchase Community in Northwest Tampa, Fl

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 13:59:47 -0500

Waterchase Tampa, Fl. Waterchase is an award-winning Master Planned Community located in Northwest Tampa, Florida and is located right outside of the Westchase area. This is one of a few Tampa developments from Taylor Woodrow, the same group that brought us Grand Hampton in NE Tampa.

Tucked away on approximately 475 acres, Waterchase offers homes in seven distinct villages. The well-planned community features 633 family and estate homes as well as 132 townhomes on homesites ranging from 45x120 to 90x200 feet, creating a warm, inviting neigborhood where families can grow and memories grow eve stronger. As a designated telecommunity, every home in Waterchase comes with Brighthouse Basic Cable TV already on when you move in!

Waterchase's Additional recreation options include the child's playground, four lighted tennis courts, half and full basketball courts, resort style pool and a two- story water slide that makes a splash with kids of all ages. There is also an all-purpose athletic field and a fitness center attached to a 6,400 square foot Clubhouse with timeless Spanish, English and French architectural influences.

Waterchase homes for sale are built by some of the premier builders in Tampa, including Arthur Rutenberg Homes, Marc Rutenberg Homes, Nohl Crest, Ryland Homes, Taylor Woodrow and various others. Waterchase homes for sale also include townhomes and estate homes along with single-family homes reflecting Spanish, Ranch Hacienda and Craftsman style architecture. To learn more about Waterchase visit the Waterchase Home Owners Association's web site.

Waterchase is located just 1/2 mile north of Race Track Rd and Countryway Blvd. in Northwest Tampa.

If you are considering a move to Tampa you owe it to yourself to visit Waterchase and the Westchase area as part of your home tour. The Burkett Collection at Charles Rutenberg Realty has full time team members living in Waterchase to help you with your home search! To view Waterchase Listings please go to http://www.tomburkett.com.

Visit www.tomburkett.com, or visit my Tampa Real Estate Blog at http://insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com or homeruntampabay.com to learn more about the Tampa Bay area.

Top 5 reasons why we shouldn't let Florida voters decide on Property Taxes

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 13:13:11 -0500

I'm glad to see that Florida property taxes and the negative effects of the "Save Our Homes" amendment are finally being addressed in this year's legislative sessions. What concerns me the most however is that the new house proposals are leaning toward letting the voters decide on the new property tax structure. I have 5 top reasons why we shouldn't let voters decide.

1. One needs to remember that it was the Florida voters that got us into this unfair property tax mess to begin with when they passed the "Save Our Homes" amendment back in 1992.

2. Amendments tend to get approved by "headlines" or misleading proposal names like "Save Our Homes" and can get us into a bigger mess than we started with.

3. A voter approved amendment will take to long. If we let individual counties approve whatever they want it will take to 2010 and beyond. We need relief yesterday.

4. What happens if the voter amendment does fix what was broken when it is passed? Look how long its taken to discover that the "Save Our Homes" amendment was a mistake.

5. What happens if the amendment doesn't pass? Then we are back to square one and have lost the momentum for real tax relief.

Why don't we set out to fix the problem that was started back in 1992. I'm proposing that we go back to that year's property base and then add back 3% per year for inflation and whatever percentage the growth rate has been for those years to arrive at the amount our taxes would be today had the "Save Our Homes" never got passed in the first place. Then going forward we cap government spending every year to 3% plus growth rate instead of capping homesteaded property. This would bring much needed relief to second home owners, vacation properties and business owners. We could still keep the $25,000 homestead principle in place but the yearly cap of 3% would no longer be needed because of the cap on government spending. This would eliminate the problems and tax inequality that "Save Our Homes" has brought. Sometimes its the things that are the simplest that makes the most sense in solving complex problems. If you would like to contact your legislator about the recent tax proposals a county by county list is at http://politics.tampabay.com or visit www.tomburkett.com or my Tampa Bay Real Estate Blog at http://www.insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com

Why is the current "Mexican Standoff" starting to favored the buyers?

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:58:50 -0500

I'm surprised everyday waiting for the other shoe to drop and an article to come out telling us what most Tampa Bay area Realtor's already know. Absorption rates (Inventory Turnover) has been dropping since it hit a peak of 59% back in June 2005. The absorption rate is determined by dividing the total number of units sold in a month by the total number of listings in MLS. It looks like it may have bottomed out in January 2007 at 4.2%!! because last month it improved slightly to 5.4%. That means we how have about an 18 month supply of homes on the market with thousands being added every month. Up until now the sellers have been standing firm and the buyers have be waiting for prices to drop, hence the above mentioned "Mexican Standoff". Who will break first is everybody's guess but it would seem that the buyers have the statistics on their side. The condo market in Pinellas is even worst with a 3.5% asorption rate in February 2007, which rebounded a tad from a low of 2.8% in January 2007. On the bright side for sellers is that interest rates have dropped a little and are now around 6 1/4% which helps and will most likely go even lower by the end of the year with the economy continuing to slow. However, we haven't seen the worst of the foreclosures yet which will put more strain of home prices. Having said all that, sometime later this year and into 2008 will be a good time to buy. Lower rates and lower home prices will be too tempting for buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines for over 2 1/2 years. The pent up demand for homes is growing everyday and will finally burst sometime in the next 2 years. Until then buyers and sellers will continue to just sit and stare at each other. To see more statistics go to Tampabayrealtor.com/stats

Executive Rental in Downtown Tampa- Available for Weekly Rentals!

Tom Burkett (Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:30:46 -0500

Upscale city living in this large 1 bedroom 1.5 bath city flat. This unit features stainless steel appliances in a island kitchen with rich granite countertops paired with shakerbox cabinets and a modern stainless steel range hood with lots of lighting. Large master overlooking the downtown area with granite countertops in master bath with a rain shower head. This community also features a roof top spa that overlooks the city and has secure gated entry and your OWN gargage. Watch the ships come in and enjoy Gasparilla Parade from your private balcony from this unique address. Walking distance to Channelside shopping, restaurants, shops, retail and more!! The flat is fully furnished and available on a weekly rental basis starting at $1,500. Please call Mike Carrier at 813.391.5356. for more information.

Visit http://www.tomburkett.com/,

http://insidetampabayrealestate.blogspot.com/ or homeruntampabay.com to learn more about the Tampa Bay area.