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I explored this new development yesterday. It is located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Great location with easy access to shopping, I95 and just 6 miles to the ocean. It is called Paloma and is built by Kolter Homes. Paloma is a gated community with over 30% of its space preserved as open space. It offers both single family homes to the south and town homes to the north on 2 different sides of the road and each with their own club house and gym. Shown below is the entire site plan.
There are 7 different models to choose from and each can be highly customized to your desires. They range in square feet from 2019 - 3563 and start at 399k. Currently there are 120 of 199 homes sold. I was impressed with the quality that is standard in their homes and all designs offered an open floor plan with large masters and great closet space. Site options include pond views.
Want to know more about this development or others? Give me a call. I am now serving both the Fairfield County, Ct and the Palm Beach County, Florida market.
| Your Realty News |
December 2011 |
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Breaking News!!!
By Victoria Lorusso
I am now offering my services not only in Fairfield County, CT but also in Palm Beach County, Florida!! I have 2 great teams and support staff in each location so it easy for me to travel back and forth. Have you ever thought of moving to Florida? Or purchasing a second home there?
While values in our area tumbled 25%, Florida was really hard hit with discounts in excess of 50% in many cases. A second home has never been this affordable especially when you factor in interst rates. Want to know more? Give me a call or send me a mail. I'd also be happy to help you explore the different areas as I did myself.
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Five Tips that Prepare You to Sell
 In a buyer's market, pricing your home correctly is all-important. Price too low and you'll leave money behind. Price too high and you won't sell at all. Here is what you should know:
1. Your home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay.
Sellers may think they can dictate to the market. And in a period of rapidly rising prices, they might even get away with it... Read More |
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The Top Three Ways to Improve Your Home's Resale Value
 Improving your home's resale value not only puts more money in your pocket when it's time to sell, but it also enhances your quality of life in the moment. Here are the top three ways to improve your home and add value.
1. Add Square Footage
Square footage is one of the first things an appraiser looks at when determining the value of your home. If your home is noticeably smaller than... Read More |
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Should You Paint Wood Floors?
 Should you paint over an old wood floor, or should you restore the floor to its natural beauty? Although your decision will ultimately depend on your taste, there are a few things to consider before you plunge in to the job.
How long will you live there? You may love the look of painted floors, but most buyers prefer natural wood. If you are going to put time and money into the floors, you might as well improve the home's value by... Read More |
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Ideas to Enjoy the Holidays
 People tend to get so busy they forget that it's the simple gifts, the simple activities and even the simple decor that usually creates the most enjoyable season. Here are some fantastic ideas to help your holiday season flow a little better.
Go for the Experience
Whether hosting a holiday dinner for family or friends or searching for a great gift for someone, focus on the experience instead of price or tangible gifts. One way is to host a "white elephant" gift exchange party and limit the gift pricing to $5 or $10 each. This enables guests to each receive a gift without everyone spending a lot of money... Read More |
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Five New Solutions for Cold, Drafty Rooms
Courtesy of ARA Content
 Many mistakenly assume cold and drafty rooms are unavoidable since every home they ever lived in had uneven temperatures. Others say they can understand why they have the problem, since the problem area is the farthest from the furnace or air handler, but you don't have to put up with these problems!
New government, industry and utility company research on uneven temperatures finds there are now economical permanent solutions. Here are some common causes, and solutions:
Identify Your Duct Leaks and Have Them Sealed: The Department Of Energy states that the typical duct system loses an astounding 25 to 40... Read More |
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Stunning Westover Antique
Impeccably restored down to
the finest detail. 3Brs in
main house, guest cottage
Great Victorian for $2 Mil |
A True Darien Gem
Move in to this updated Col
set on a corner lot in fab
convenient location. Newly
listed at $765,000 |
Waterfront Perfection
150 ft of sandy beach can
be yours! 5 br, 4.5 bths,
totally updated w/NYC views
A real buy at $4,250,000 |
Shippan Point Colonial
Enjoy your own privated
deeded beach! Lrg fenced
yard, 4 br, 2.5 bth, fshd
lwr lvl, SOLD!!!! |
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| Victoria Lorusso - (203) 324-9600 |
Your Realty News - December 2011 |
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They say that no news is good news. And while that may be true, last week two economic reports were good news. Read on to learn what happened…and how home loan rates were impacted.
 Last Thursday, Initial Jobless Claims come in at 381,000. Not only was this lower than expectations, the number was a nine-month low, signaling that the labor market is slowly improving. Then on Friday, Consumer Sentiment reached a six-month high, rising above expectations to 67.7. These aren't the only economic reports here in the US that have improved in recent weeks, which gives us reason for some optimism when it comes to our economy. But how the Eurodrama plays out may determine which way the fragile US economy goes next.
And it was a big week in Europe, with the European Central Bank (ECB) holding a policy meeting on Thursday and the two-day European Union Summit on Thursday and Friday. Before the Summit even began, rating firm Standard & Poor's put 15 of the 17-nation Euro currency bloc on a downgrade review, citing "continuing disagreements among European policy makers on how to tackle" the Euro debt crisis.
So what were the results of the EU Summit? Leaders agreed to a new, tighter "fiscal integration" across the Eurozone. This means that a new treaty will be drafted, setting guidelines such as annual budget deficits being limited to three percent, and failure to meet guidelines like these would automatically spark disciplinary procedures. As expected, Germany was the winner in this negotiation as they demanded a tighter fiscal union in lieu of firing up the printing press and buying troubled sovereign debt.
So what does all of this mean for home loan rates here in the US? It's important to remember that when our economy is struggling and economic reports are less favorable, our Bond Market usually benefits as investors seek a safe haven for their money. And since home loan rates are tied to Mortgage Bonds, our home loan rates are sometimes at their best when our economy is struggling. In a way it makes sense...in times of economic struggle, good home loan rates can help kick start our economy in other areas.
Though our economic reports have been improving of late, our Bond markets - and therefore home loan rates - have continued to benefit from the uncertainty in Europe, as investors have been staying put in the relative safe haven of US Bonds. That's why now remains a great time to purchase or refinance a home, with home loan rates still near historic lows. Let me know if I can answer any questions at all for you or your clients.
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 Interested in Distressed properties like these?
If anyone is looking to pick up cheap investment property, like 50k and under, I have aligned myself with a company that is buying homes in bulk and then wholesaling them out. If you are interested send me your name, I will register you and give you access to their site. Most of the properties are in FL, TX, GA, NC,SC, VA, IL, OH, PA, MI & MO. Some financing is available but they are really best suited for cash buyers. On most you can close in under 2 weeks and it is easy to inspect these properties as well. Title search is up to you or they will do it for you for $180. There is no charge to look on this site unlike RealtyTrac. These homes will not be listed on an MLS. They are for private sale directly with the wholesaler. Interested? Send me your name and you are on your way!
I came to Activerain about 5 or 6 years ago. The word blog was seldom heard then. I started writing here and there, posting the occasional comment, etc. Well it was about 3 years ago that I realized the power of the blog and of Activerain! You see, I got a listing because the seller did an online search, somehow found me on Activerain and since I was ranked as the #1 agent in my town, 80% of the sell job on her was done! That solidified my belief in blogs and the power of Activerain's SEO.
I used to keep a duplicate blog through GODADDY but dropped this about 2 years ago. I've enjoyed watching Activerain grow and expand and as well attended their RainCamp in New York City where I got some really great content, met Bob and Ben too.
When I came to Keller Williams 6.5 years ago, if you googled my name I was found on like the 7th page. Through KW's great technology teachings and my participation with Activerain, I now manage to take up the entire 1st page when googled. And guess what? You got it, alot of it is content I posted on Activerain.
So as I celebrate entering a new level, I encourage all you newbies out there. It is worth the time and really is not that much effort to make a difference in your business. Thanks Activerain!
Trump Parc Stamford is a terrific place to live and is loaded with amenities. There is 24 hour conceirge, valet parking, indoor pool, gym, a social room, party room and even a theatre. Walk to shops and restaurants or jump the shuttle to the train station and head to NYC.
Currently they have slashed the prices of several units there. Here are the great deals!
SUPER SALE UNITS (prices are unbelievable):
1BR 9B $495K 1113sf has terrace
1BR 18C $525,000 1106sf no terrace
2BR 8,9,10E $532,920; $540,544; $551,256 1684sf has terrace
2BR 8,9,14G $533,543; $531,480; $624,000 1677sf has terrace
2BR 10F, 17F, PH29E (same floorplan) $510,880; $588,000; $818,404 1530sf has terrace
2BR 12D, 16 $579,600; $611,520 has terrace
2BR PH24B $722,326 1738sf has terrace
3BR 14A, 19A $810,000; $895,000 1825sf has terrace
To schedule an appointment to see any of these and for your own individual representation, call me 203-249-2693.
The Avon Theatre in Stamford is a non-profit film center and community venue for the presentation of timeless films. The Avon Theatre has been described as an eclectic and whimsical picture house, with a prevailing Neo-Colonial motif that incorporates traditional Art Deco themes.
Sunday, November 20, 2011. 12 noon step-off, Parade Route: Summer to Broad to Atlantic
UBS Parade Spectacular presented by Stamford Town Center and The Advocate
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Elmo at the UBS Parade Spectacular
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One of the largest helium balloon parades in the country, featuring everyone’s favorite giant balloon characters, award winning marching bands and fabulous floats takes place in Stamford, CT. You can even come the night before and watch as they inflate these wonderful balloons. Guaranteed fun for the whole family!
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| Your Realty News |
October 2011 |
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Did You Know?
By Victoria Lorusso
Honestly I am so amazed by the current interest rates. Stunned really. Last week my clients closed on a FHA loan at 3.75% with only 5% down. They are so happy and completely get the cost of money right now as compared to where it ultimately will go, up.
So did you know that if rates move up even 1 point, that typically accounts for a 10% increase in purchase price. Wow! So if you are thinking of buying, what are you waiting for??
Follow my links to start looking now!!!!
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Selling Your Home in a Slow Market
 The slow housing market in many parts of the country is causing concern; but there are steps homeowners can take to ensure their house sells for a fair price.
Avoid Overpricing
When selling a house in a slow market, avoid the trap of overpricing. Keep in mind that housing prices in certain locations remain steadfast and do not change drastically. For example, if one house is sold for $100,000 then it is unlikely that... Read More |
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What Homeowners Should Know About Strategic Default
Courtesy of ARA Content
 Who would risk the negative impact of defaulting on a mortgage if they didn't really have to? About 17 percent of Americans who defaulted on their mortgages in the second quarter of 2010 did exactly that, according to a study by Experian, the leading global information services company.
"Strategic default"—choosing to stop paying on your mortgage even if you can afford the monthly payments—peaked at the end of 2008... Read More |
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Destroying Household Odors
 Candles, potpourri, spray fragrances and such will cover up an unpleasant household odor, but covering up an odor does only that; cover it. These pretty fragrances will not eliminate the odor at its source for a lasting solution. For that, you need to do one of two things:
Absorb the Odor
Baking soda is the most commonly used and recommended product for absorbing... Read More |
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The 203(k) Mortgage Makes Green Remodeling Affordable
 Green home remodeling is a great investment in your property and in the environment. The 203(k) mortgage program from HUD and the FHA allows you to get a single mortgage to buy and renovate a property to meet green home goals.
Start with the basics: proper weatherstripping, caulking, insulation and ventilation. It's also important to properly insulate heating and cooling ducts that run through unheated spaces—a lot of energy can be lost to the environment, robbing you of money and efficiency. Standards have changed over the years and if you're buying an older home, it may not be as energy efficient as it could be. These simple fixes save energy costs and improve the health of... Read More |
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Update Your Home with Color
 Are you tired of your bland color scheme? Whether you add color to your walls or handpick some colorful accessories, the right colors can turn your home into a stunning showplace. Here are some ideas to keep in mind when using color.
Warm or Cool?
Warm colors tend to be energizing. If you want to enliven a dull room, add splashes of yellow, red or orange. For an easy fix, add cozy cushions, sumptuous drapes and soft carpets in warm tones.
Cool colors have a relaxing effect. To settle a busy room or create a calming sanctuary, choose hues like... Read More |
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Stunning Westover Antique
Impeccably restored down to
the finest detail. 3Brs in
main house, guest cottage
Great Victorian for $2 Mil |
A True Darien Gem
Move in to this updated Col
set on a corner lot in fab
convenient location. Newly
listed at $765,000 |
Waterfront Perfection
150 ft of sandy beach can
be yours! 5 br, 4.5 bths,
totally updated w/NYC views
A real buy at $4,250,000 |
Shippan Point Colonial
Enjoy your own privated
deeded beach! Lrg fenced
yard, 4 br, 2.5 bth, fshd
lwr lvl, Just $799,000 |
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| Victoria Lorusso - (203) 324-9600 |
Your Realty News - October 2011 |
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I've organized some Shippan Point Open Houses this weekend from 1-4pm Oct. 30!
72 Rippowam Rd. $337,000
1423 Shippan Ave. $748,000
45 Westcott Rd. $769,000
22 Ralph St. $799,000
5 Westcott Rd. $850,000
46 Ralsey Rd. $850,000
334 Stamford Ave. $1,129,000
209 Ocean Dr.E. $1,345,000
4 S. Sagamore Rd. $1,395,000
46 Ocean Dr. North $1,550,000
123 Van Rensselaer Ave. $1,750,000
49 Rogers Rd. $4,250,000
This is your opportunity to shop and compare the outstanding values in this exclusive waterfront community, just 5 minutes to the train, shops and many restaurants. All have varying access to private beaches. Never before has this community been so affordable. So tell your friends, your neighbors and more about this terrific opportunity!!
Check back as more homes are still being added!
Call me for information or directions.
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Victoria Lorusso
Stamford,
CT
More about me…
Keller Williams Prestige Properties
Office Phone: (203) 324-9600 x 224
Cell Phone: (203) 249-2693
Email Me
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