Victoria's Real Estate Blog

My Attempt at a hyper local posting

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 09:41:39 -0700

Following Bob's advice from his class yesterday, I created this blog and hope I'm on the right track.

http://activerain.com/blogsview/3746631/singer-island-info-single-family-homes-for-sale-and-recent-stats

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Singer Island Info, Single Family Homes for Sale and Recent Stats

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 11:04:19 -0700

Singer Island, Florida

Singer Island offers a wonderful place to live. Just over the Blue Heron Bridge in Riviera Beach and Palm Beach Shores, you enter into a world where you feel like you are on vacation every day. Singer Island offers a large array of high rise condominium buildings as well as some very nice single family residences in lovely neighborhoods.

The island which is actually a peninsula was named after Palm Beach developer Paris Singer, a son of Isaac Singer of the Singer Sewing Machine magnate. There are parks, marinas, hiking and biking paths as well as 47 miles of sparkling white sand beaches.

A great location in Palm Beach County, it is located just 3 miles from North Palm Beach, 5.4 miles from West Palm Beach, 5.4 miles from Palm Beach Gardens and 6.2 miles from Juno Beach. It is also just a 45 minute drive to Fort Lauderdale and a 2 hour drive to Orlando.

Recently, in May I had the pleasure of representing buyers for this lovely home at 1229 Yacht Harbor on Singer Island. This is a 3 bedroom home with a Keywest feel and in ground pool. This home was asking $399,000 and sold for $357,500. The new owners will be putting a new roof on and doing some other very nice updates that will easily make this home worth over 400k in the short term.

19 homes have sold in the last 6 months ranging in price from $210,000 to a home that received its full asking price of $2,200,000. Currently there are 19 homes for sale. Click here to view all Singer Island Homes for sale now.

The waterfront home shown here is currently available for $845,000 and offers 3 bedrooms with 2 full baths, 2845 square feet of under air living space that has been fully updated. Especially nice is the 90 foot dock which includes a 12,000 pound boat lift.

Want to see more? Go here.

Whether you are here in town at the moment or somewhere else, I can help you find a great home. Just let me know what you are looking for and I can be on the look out for you. Unfortunately there is not a huge selection and it seems to be getting slimmer as the market rebounds and demand increases for this special place called Singer Island.

Call me on my cell now at 203-249-2693!

And feel free to check in with me for Singer Island info, single family homes for sale and recent stats.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

FHA Approved Condo Complexes in Stamford, CT

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:29:31 -0700

The official list is constantly changing and if you are looking to buy with a FHA loan, the complex must be approved. Here is the most updated list.

Liberty Commons - 59-61 Liberty St.

Greenway Condos - Lawn Ave.

Cold Spring Manor - Cold Spring Rd.

Waterside Green - 1 Southfield Ave.

Strawberry Woods - 320 Strawberry Hill Ave.

Spinnaker Cove - 950 Cove St.

Rock Spring - Rock Spring Rd.

River Vista - Clinton Ave.

Need help finding what is currently available? Call email me and go to my website.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Quick Fix Kitchen Trends for 2013

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 08:46:03 -0700

Tired of your outdated kitchen? Need to freshen your look to sell?

Sprucing up your old kitchen has proven to add up to money on the table when it comes to selling your home. There are now revamping kits to refinish countertops, cabinets and appliances that can quickly transform your kitchen.

While granite remains the #1 choice for countertops it can be expensive. I just discovered a kit called Giani Granite Paint Kit. It allows you to give your formica countertops an updated granite look for about $70 per kitchen. It can also be used on tile, wood and corian. Everything is included in the kit that you need to apply it and the high gloss finish adds durability and shine.

For your cabinets there are also kits like the Nuvo Cabinet Paint. It's a one day process where you apply 2 coats and you can transform your look. YOu can change the stain color or go to a paint. I have one client who had the 80's pickled wood cabinets. She painted them a soft grey and created a new modern look completed by simply replacing the cabinet hardware.

Lastly, appliances can be expensive to replace. Seems a shame when often they work just fine. Now I have not personally seen this but did read about appliance paint. There is a new Liquid Stainless Steel paint kit and they are available for all your appliances. These kits can be found at www.LiquidStainlesssteel.com

Need advice about what you should do to get max results for your kitchen? Call or mail me as I'm happy to help. I can also let you know how much more you can anticipate getting for your home sale.

For Real Estate in the Palm Beaches of Florida or in Fairfield County, CT, check out my web sites or give me call so that we can discuss your needs!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

North Palm Beach Waterfront Condos Available Now!

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:53:32 -0700

There are still excellent opportunities in North Palm Beach waterfront condos, from small to large. The luxury ones are perhaps some of the best buys as they are just now starting to move upward in price. From one bedroom to three you'll find a nice but shrinking collection. So hurry, prices are rising.

North Palm Beach Waterfront Condos For a complete list of available homes. Or call me on my cell at 203-249-2693 for immediate access.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Determining The Value of Your Home in Palm Beach County

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:44:59 -0700

The market is changing fast. First we had a rocket speed fall and now things are turning around nicely. Palm Beach County has seena 27% rise in prices over the last year. It actually is the PERFECT move up market. In order to do this, you first need to understand the value of your home. That's where I can help apply my 15 years and 100's of sales experience to help you determine the value of your home and find the next one for you as well. Upside down on your home? No problem, We've got some creative solutions for many situations but not all unfortunately. The first step is a conversation and then we go from there.

If you go here, http://yourpalmbeachcountyhome.yourkwagent.com/atj/user/CMAFormGetAction.do There is a quick easy form for you to get started with. I look forward to working with you!

Victoria Lorusso
www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com
203-249-2693 cell. It's a CT # I know but I live here and just never changed it.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Looking For a Golf Property in The Palm Beaches?

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 18:41:57 -0700

The opportunities are practically endless to own a golf property in the Palm Beaches. Each community varies in their membership dues and benefits. Let me help guide you. What are your interests?

Available Golf Properties

Feel free to call me, Victoria Lorusso on my cell phone at 203-249-2693

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

North Palm Beach Waterfront Homes For You!

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:25:32 -0700

The Village of North Palm Beach is located on the sunny east coast of Florida, 9 miles north of West Palm Beach in Palm Beach County. The Village is a residential community with a population of 12,582.

With such assets as warm weather, sunshine, golf, ocean fishing, boating, sandy beaches and balmy breezes, the Village has much to offer enthusiastic people who are raising families or are looking to retire. North Palm Beach isperhaps best known for its exceptionally high quality of life. Known world-wide for its recreation, North Palm Beach boasts one of the finest municipal golf courses and country club complexes in South Florida.

North Palm Beach is the only municipality in Palm Beach County that can claim a vast network of waterfront and canal-front properties. Think you might like to live here?

To view all available waterfront homes, go here North Palm Beach Waterfront Homes Available

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Available Homes In Seminole Landing, North Palm Beach, FL

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:15:09 -0700

Seminole Landing is a beautiful exclusive, oceanfront community in North Palm Beach, Florida. Seminole Landing offers beachfront estates as well as intracoastal & canal front homes. The 77 acre community offers large estate lots and beautiful waterway views.

Seminole Landing is one of the most exclusive private communities in Palm Beach County. Offering a gorgeous beachfront golf course, this community attracts even the pickiest of buyers. Whether you are looking for a home on the ocean, estate on the intracoastal, golf course or steps away from the beach, Seminole Landing is one place you need to see.

Available Homes in Seminole Landing

Feel free to call me on my cellular phone for a private viewing of these homes at 203-249-2693

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Waterfront Opportunity with Dock, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:17:53 -0700

Hitting the market today! Fabulous direct waterfront opportunity with over 3600 square feet of living space and in an ideal location. Close to shopping and restaurants.

The dock will accomodate a boat up 70 feet or more in length. The home has a welcoming open floor plan with Living Room, Dining Room and Family Room and an open kitchen that leads out to the pool area and beyond to the dock. This comfortable home has a spacious master suite with french doors that open to the pool area. It also has 4 additional bedroom and 2 and a half baths as well as a den.

This home has 110 feet of waterfront and 2 boat lifts. This won't last long so call me to schedule a private viewing of this home just listed for $1,199,000. Cell phone is 203-249-2693

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

8798 Marlamoor... A Truly Special One of a Kind Home

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:40:43 -0700

This designer decorated mediterranean style home for sale boasts over 3500 square feet and is set on one acre in West Palm Beach, Florida.

This single story home has both marble and wood floors, a large eat-in kitchen open to a family room, formal living room and dining room, deluxe master suite and even a movie theatre. There are 2 additional bedrooms with a shared deluxe bath as well. At the back of the home is the screened in pool which offers an outdoor kitchen.

This home is part of Bay Hill Estates with golf at your door step. There is however, no membership required. This home is offered furnished for $895,000 or unfurnished for $845,000.

Please call me or email lme if you wouldlike additional information or to see other homes like these. 203-249-2693 cell or vmll@aol.com

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

The Anatomy of a Business Card

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:23:35 -0800

Recently I returned from Famiily Reunion (Keller Williams annual convention) with a pocket full of business cards from other Realtors from around the country. I sat down to enter them into my database for future referral business and was stunned to find a few that while looked good, they lacked really important information. Of the four I pulled aside, they each did not mention the areas where they served. So how could I ever send them business? One also did not even have an email address.

Pictured here is my CT business card and some suggestions for those starting out.

Don't miss out on business. Double check your cards today. It is worth the effort and the expense!

Need a Reale Estate agent in CT or Florida? Call or mail me!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

2012 Florida, Palm Beach County Real Estate Market Overview. WOW!!!!!

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 18:46:00 -0800

Having been in this business for over 15 years, I have lived through this market before and see exactly where it is going and what it is doing. Take a look at these astounding facts.

It was probably about 12 years ago when I was working with a young successful couple buying their first home. There was not much to look at then. Very limited inventory and a fast paced real estate market. They dragged their feet, wanting to be sure of their decision even after finding the house of their dreams at our very first stop. The result is they lost it. Then found something kind of close but after taking 3 days to finalize everything, they lost that too. Deciding to take a few months off, when they returned to shop for a home, they found the homes that were in their price range were missing one or more of the items on their wishlist and or were not in the neighborhoods they wanted. Prices had risen rapidly but their incomes and savings had not. They missed it and it cost them dearly.

Well if you are thinking of investing in a new home or investment property and are sitting on the sidelines watching, that story is about to be about you! Don't know where to start? Let me guide you. I am associated with the #1 Team in Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach, Juno Beach and Jupiter. I can guide you the best homes with docks or homes on the golf course. You can start by going to my site at www.PalmBeachCountyHomes.com or call me. Always here to help dreams come true!

Will these numbers repeat in 2013? My bet is yes!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

December South Florida Home Prices

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 15:51:29 -0800

Home prices soared in December in South Florida, an optimistic end to a year that saw sellers regain the upper hand amid growing confidence in a revitalized housing market. Palm Beach County's median price for existing homes last month rose to $229,750, the highest of 2012, a 21 percent increase from a year earlier, the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches announced on Tuesday.

This is the 7th month in a row that the county's median price rose. There were 1,184 single-family homes sold in December, up 14 percent from December 2011. Cash deals jumped 23 percent and accounted for 594 sale, up from 482. Sales and prices of existing condominiums also rose across Palm Beach County last month.

The Real Estate market in 2012 was reminiscent of the boom years. Bidding wars were not uncommon at all, pitting first-time buyers against seasoned investors. Homes sold quickly, depleting the supply in many areas. Interest rates have also nudged up the last couple of weeks. Now is the time to buy in South Florida if you are want to take advantage of the great prices.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

The Preserve, Bay Hill Estates, Palm Beach Florida

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 18:18:38 -0800

Nestled in a pristine setting these new homes are perfect for living in luxury with beautiful views of natural preserves and lakes. These new expansive homes are set on 1/2 acre home lots with golfing on site if you choose. This is a no equity membership so if you love golf, you have all of PGA to choose from, or not. It is located near fine dining, great shopping, world class beaches and A-rated schools.

This is a new construction development being done by GL Homes who has a fantastic reputation and solid books. The homes range from 3036 to over 5000 square feet and come complete with generous luxury standard features. Of course there are plenty of options.

There are 194 home lots and currently roughly 1/3 have been sold. With the Real Estate market in recovery, suddenly they can't build them fast enough.

The Rosewood floor plan is pictured above and is the initial photo presented for one of the models. This home starts at $534,900. There are 7 other models to choose from ranging in price from $459,000 to $624,000.

I do not represent the builder but would like to represent you in a purchase. I closed on one last week for a client of mine who was very thankful for having me represent him. It was a long distance purchase and I was able to stay on top of all of the details from the beginning to the end. In other words he had a qualified second set of eyes to oversee the builder.

This new development is deffinately worth a look. I have to say that from my 15 years experience, this builder is putting out a quality product. They were also easy to work with.

Want to know more? Give me a call or send me an email. Would love to hear from you!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Update Your Old Receiver to Get Paragon... Easy!

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 18:19:35 -0800

Are you frustrated because you have great stereo equipment but it is not blue tooth and not up to todays standards? Guess what? For about $15 you can change everything.

I bought the above Dynex model DX-MP3RCA7 and simply plugged in the two identical cables to the input on the back of my receiver and then plugged in the other to the headphone jack on my Ipad and wholla! Pandora was streaming through my speakers. No more dealing with antennas. Can stream my own downloaded music and no more messing with CDs!! Got to love this!

Listen I normally have someone deal with all the wires back there on this stuff, but even I could do this. Give it a try, I think you will love it.

Ready for your new home or investment property? Call me! I've got lots of great more tips for you!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

My newsletter, a time saver and a personal touch!

Sat, 05 Jan 2013 14:56:10 -0800

One of the things I have been doing for years is to publish a newsletter. How one gathers all of the data for a newsletter that people will enjoy can be a daunting task. When I started doing this I was lucky to hear about a company that does most of it for you at minimal cost. With www.AnyPresentations.com I can write one article for the newletter and they do the rest. I can also post 4 of my listings with live links back to my website. If someone passes it on and they like it, they can even subscirbe to it.

My newsletter service saves me alot of time. More importantly it keeps me in touch with clients, (past, current and future) once a month. A funny sotry....One evening I arrived at the bar of a small restaurant for a bite to eat. The gentleman next to me said, Hi Victoria. Sorry but I didn't know who this person was!!! After some small talk, he told me that if it had not been for my newletter, he wouldn't have recognized me. Other people write to me at times about the articles in the newsletter. Others just thank me for getting it.

So if you want a time saver that stays in touch with your database, you should consider a service like the one I use.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

My January Newsletter

Sat, 05 Jan 2013 14:17:22 -0800

Your Realty News

January 2013

(203) 249-2693 | vmll@KW.com | www.homesoffairfieldcounty.com | www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Bringing on the New Year with Palm Beach County Real Estate!

By Victoria Lorusso
There certainly is reason to celebrate in Palm Beach County as we ring in the new year. Palm Beach County Real Estate saw an amazing 19.6% increas in prices since last year. To read the full article, Click Here. http://actvra.in/NNx

Wishing you all a healthy and prosperous 2013!

Will Homeowner Tax Perks
Change in 2013?

The terrain of homeowner tax credits is shifting slightly this year, and it is still unclear how it will all settle. Several credits homeowners have enjoyed the past few years have already expired. Which credits still exist in spite of the looming fiscal cliff, and which credits are on the probable chopping block?

Already Axed, Or Endangered Credits

• Credits for mortgage insurance premiums (a requirement for a mortgage when... Read More

Should You Pay Mortgage Points?

If you apply for a mortgage loan today chances are that the lender or broker will propose that you pay a discount point or two to get a better deal. But what does that mean exactly and will it really be beneficial to you? It depends on your unique situation.

What Are Mortgage Points?
Before you agree to pay a point or more to your mortgage lender, make sure that you fully understand what that means. A point is equal to... Read More

Home Decor Trends for 2013

Despite its negative reputation, the number 13 doesn't always have to be unlucky. Take these top decor trends for 2013 from design experts, manufacturers and trend forecasters across the country. They're fresh, fun and sure to bring good fortune to any home.

Color: Emerald Green for 2013

Industry leader Pantone's annual fashion color report sets the tone for home decor as well as... Read More

Victoria's Blog

Search for a Home!

5 Signs that Now is a Good Time to Buy

Homes are spending less time on the market. A year ago, the median time it took a house to sell was 96 days. Now the median time has been shortened to just 71 days. A shortage of inventory, an increase in demand, and those ever-favorable mortgage rates are turning the market around.

Homebuilder optimism is up. The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index measures the optimism of builders in regards to the newly-built, single-family home market. In November, the index rose five points to 46. This is the highest the index has reached since May 2006, and it is far above the November 2011... Read More

Nontoxic Relief for
Moldy Homes

Molds bloom in a variety of colors: red, green, blue, gray, white, and the dreaded black. Some molds are toxic and can cause respiratory problems, sinus infections, and other health issues. No matter what color mold is wearing, it looks creepy, ruins some materials, and emits an off-putting odor. In short, mold makes a bad roommate. Here's how to kick it out, without creating equally bad air quality issues in your home from cleaning chemicals.

Moisture + mold spores + time
= mold infestation.
You can't block mold spores from entering your home, but you can control its growth by keeping your home dry. Inspect your home for... Read More

Featured Listings


Historic Stone Waterfront Colonial set on waterfront acre w/pool & tennis. Fab views over Long Island Snd. Back on Mkt at just $4,3	Trump Parc Resale!! Fabulous 2br, 2 1/2 bath on high floor w/ fantastic views. Tons of amenities in the building. $946,000	Superior Water Views! Gorgeous custom home with dock & pool. One level liv- ing at its best!! Split opn floor plan, $1,950,00	Delray Compound Fabulous opportunity w/boat dock, across from beach. 2 homes for the price of one! Lots of updates, $2.2mil

Victoria Lorusso - (203) 249-2693

Your Realty News - January 2013

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Sound Bars for Your TV.... Wow

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 19:08:45 -0800

I've had a what do you call it a modern flat screen tv for 3 years now. The sound was so so. My boyfriend recently bought a new one actually last month and while shopping for it I noticed all these sound bars on the market because the tvs don't have great sound. They seem to range from about $250 to $1400 for the souped up Bose. I thought oh great, more money to get you.

Anyway we brought the tv home and the sound really was not good. Got a Philips smart TV for under $700 and thought we did good. Oh well, back to the store. We ended up with the LG NB3520A for $249.Cheapest so we were a bit skeptical.

Well guess what? Forget that extra money on those others. This rocks. I never knew how much I was missing! I do now. Wow! And it has Blue Tooth too so you can stream Pandora through your phone to the sound bar. So whether you are splurging for something new or setting up a new home, I suggest you check it out. Great value!!

And if you would like a new home to go with it, call me! I have a great network around this nation with great experienced agents. And of course if you are interested in Fairfield County CT or Palm Beach County, I'm an expert there!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Palm Beach County Home Sales and Values are UP!!

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 16:46:18 -0800

The median price of single family homes is up year over year 19.6% and townhomes and condos are up 15.2%. Palm Beach County is clearly in recovery. Closed sales year over year are up 15.4% for single family homes and pending sales are up an amazing 66%. The inventory of homes for sale has fallen from 10.3 months to a 4.7 month supply. More great news!

Last year, sellers were giving up alot. That is not true anymore. Priced realistically, sellers are now getting very close to their asking prices. The lower part of the market is demonstrating the most strength with investors still swooping in and picking up properties. Some of these properties are even going over asking price.

All property types for foreclosures shhowed a 47.5% decline from a year ago. However, shortsales have increased 15.6%. It seems that many banks are working with more homeowners who are upside down.

Understanding market conditions and trends locally and nationally is very important if you are considering buying or selling. Realistic pricing brings you motivated buyers often with cash in hand. By next week we will be in full season so if you are thinking of selling or buying, give me a call for expert advice on what is going on here with Real Estate in Palm Beach County

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

10 most over looked tax deductions

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:44:39 -0800

I thought this post by Amanda provided some very worthwhile points especially for those who prepare their own taxes. Of course you should verify this with a trusted CPA.

Via Amanda Alejandro (Coldwell Banker Gundaker):

10 often overlooked tax deductions (edit/delete)

Deduct prorated mortgage interest in the year of property purchase or sale.

Similarly, if bought a residence

and took over an existing mortgage, don't forget to deduct your prorated interest share for the month of the

sale. Your closing settlement statement shows your prorated share of mortgage interest.

10 Often Overlooked Real Estate Tax Deductions

1 Home acquisition mortgage loan fees. If you have bought a primary or secondary home in the past year,

you probably obtained a mortgage to finance the purchase. That mortgage is called an "acquisition

mortgage" because it enabled purchase of the residence. If you paid a loan fee to obtain that acquisition

mortgage, usually called "points", that loan fee qualifies as an itemized interest deduction. Each point paid

equals 1 percent of the amount borrowed.

2 Home improvement loan fees. Similarly, if you paid a loan fee to obtain a home improvement loan, that loan

fee is fully deductible in the tax year it was paid.

3 Loan fees paid to refinance a home loan (or borrow against other real estate). If you refinance your existing

home loan, or borrowed against other real estate such as an apartment building, any loan fee you paid must

be deducted over the life of the mortgage.

4 When refinancing, deduct any undeducted loan fees. Thanks to low mortgage interest rates, many

homeowners refinanced again after previously refinancing a year or two earlier. These homeowners should

remember to deduct on the income tax returns any undeducted loan fees from a prior mortgage refinance.

5 If you bought or sold property in the past year remember to deduct prorated real estate taxes. A major tax

deduction many real estate buyers and sellers overlook is the prorated property tax they paid at the close of

escrow. Even if the other party remitted the payment to the tax collector, but you were charges a prorated

portion of the tax bill, be sure to deduct your share on your return.

6

7 Mortgage prepayment penalty. If you paid off an existing mortgage early and were charged a prepayment

penalty be the lender, that prepayment penalty qualified as an itemized deduction.

8

When land rent payment qualify as interest deductions.

Millions of homes are located on leased land.

Internal Revenue Code 163© allows land rent to be deducted like interest when the lease; (a) is for at least 15

years, including renewal periods; (b) is freely assignable; ( c) contains a present or future option to buy

the land; and (d) is like a security interest, such as a mortgage. Payments to buy the land are not deductible,

nor are ground rent payments deductible if you do not have the option to buy the land, such as in a mobile

home park.

9 Home construction loan interest. If you built a new home in the past year, or are building one now, don't

forget to deduct the construction loan interest paid. It's deductible if the construction period does not exceed

24 months before occupancy of your principal residence.

10 Deduct prepaid property taxes and mortgage interest. If you prepaid your current year's real estate taxes

last year, as homeowners do to increase their tax deductions, or if you pay your January mortgage payment in

December of the previous year, don't forget to deduct these extra mortgage interest and property tax

Amanda Alejandro

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Your Active Rain Blog Can and Will Bring You Business!

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 18:01:45 -0800

You rock Active Rain! I joined 6 years ago and I've worked my blog off and on. For a while I opperated two blogs but after about 4 years abandoned my other blog because Active Rain consistently brings traffic to my site. So why spend money and time on another?

I got a call yesterday for an upscale condo developement I had written about over a year ago and updated once. This is a client who is in the 600-800k range. We had a great conversation and he and his wife will be in my car next week looking at this development and some others. Here's the thing. This development is only at 50% sold and so still operates an on site sales office and website. But my blog is was caught him. And it has done it two other times as well for the same property.

No I don't get tons of leads from my blog but I do get them. It also adds validity to my web site and fresh content as I post it. My biggest tip for you would be.... Do NOT write for points. That is a waste of time and dilutes your blog.

* Keep a note pad in your car so as you get ideas of what to write about you can write them down. Nothing worse than having a great idea and not being able to remember it.

* If there is a new development going on in your area, write about it in detail. That means, homes available, square footage, pricing and amenities. Be the expert. That's all I tried to do.

* Schedules of big local events are great too. In CT where I have a business, they do a summer concert series. I posted the schedule and funny thing, the last concert when the Beach Boys were going to play, my phone rang off the hook. They thought I was the expert on how to attend!

* Not only be the expert, but speak from your heart. They can tell when you do!

Lastly reach out to them when you need help. They are great and really care at Active Rain. But do them a favor, TRY to solve your problem first. You likely will and save them for when you have truly exhausted resources.

Happy Active Raining everyone!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

Palm Beach County September Housing Statistics

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 16:37:43 -0700

The stats above show a great reason to invest in Florida Real Esate. Where else and in what else can you get a 24.9% return. Pretty impressive and encouraging. To view the full article on Palm Beach housing stats, go here C:\Users\Victoria\Pictures\Palm_Beach_September_Stats_2012.png or to take a look at the current homes for sale, go to www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com. Please let me know if you would like information on any of the homes you view on my site!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

City of Stamford Leaf Pickup Schedule for 2012

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 10:30:10 -0700

Area 1 which is North Stamford will start leaf pick up on November 11. Area 2 which is north of I95 will start on November 16. The last area which is South of I95 will start on December 3. After they leave these areas they will not return so make sure your leaves are out by then. For questions on this you can call the city of Stamford at 203-977-4140.

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c

www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com

www.YourPalmBeachCountyHome.com

What Victoria Does to Get Your Home Sold!

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 10:48:39 -0700

Providing first class serivice for my sellers is exptremely important to me. It starts from the first moment I meet them by being a good listener and gaining an understanding of their wants, needs and goals. Everyone is different so every transaction will be different as well.

Initial Meeting

Tour the home.....Listen to them..... then review all data pertinent to their home. This includes comps, area benefits and area concerns. Present them with my listing presentation which depending on their age, may be in print or on my IPad. For the higher end homes, this will have some advance customization for them specifically. Then agree on a follow up date and time if not getting the listing signed right then.

Listing Signed

Review all documents in detail with the client as they sign them. If at their home, I have them sign in duplicate so that I can leave a fully executed copy with them. Then I place the keybox on their door and immediately order a sign to be installed if permitted.

Back at the office, my assistant now enters the listing onto the MLS. It will auto populate to many sites. Where it can be enhanced, all efforts are made to add additional photos and verbeage. It is also manually entered onto many other sites. I blog it here on ActiveRain, Facebook and Twitter it. Our virtual assistant overseas then Craigslist it several times a day everyday. A multi page handout to be left at the home for potential buyers is now generated and hand delivered to the sellers.

Next the open houses are planned. One for agents, serving lunch to generate more traffic and one for the public, typically on a Sunday. They are promoted via craigslist, listingbook, realtor.com, KW and others. Very detailed sign in sheets are present at the Public open to capture buyer leads.

The marketing continues in all aspects until there is an accepted contract and agreement on price, terms and conditions. Feed back on showings accumulated and recorded so that any adjustments that are necessary can be made. This may relate to price or to something simple like staging.

The Offer

Once an offer has been presented the game begins, going back and forth with price and terms until agreement is made. Proof of funds or a true mortgage approval is necessary for this to happen.

I attend inspections of my seller's homes. I find that many problems can be headed off on the spot. At the least, you have a clear understanding of any issues at hand. If there are issues, I work to get estimates on how to solve any problems and agreement between parties as to how they will be addressed.

If there is a mortgage contingency, that date is carefully monitored. Once that date has passed, the mortgage secured, then it is just waiting for a close.

The Closing

Once the closing date has been set, I make arrangements to tour the property one hour before closing. Lots of things can happen over night so it's always day of. Then it's off to the closing table where hopefully we lots of happy faces.

After

I like to stay in touch, alot, during the first 30 days, especially if they are new to the area. I often will present them with a map and all important locations premapped out for them. Also a resource list for things like, Home Depot, a vet, the hospital, the hardware store, etc.

After that it is just staying in touch via Email and the occasional phone call.

There are so many other small details that occur over this time that it is hard to really list them all here. But this is most of it.

Want me to sell your home? Call or mail me for first class service!

VictoriaLorusso

Keller Williams Prestige Properties

203-324-9600 CT

561-656-2929 FL

203-249-2693c