South Florida Real Estate Blog

Weston Lowers Water Pressure City-Wide

2007-06-01T15:29:00.000-04:00

News on the Weston website is that the water pressure is now cut back in that city. This only days after the mandatory water restrictions were in place, that left homeowners only four hours, predawn, to wash their cars or water their lawns.

But the city still looks fresh and lovely.

Check out our Expert Realty reporter on-site talking to a Weston resident from her home in Savanna Preserve about how they're keeping it green!

Home Improvement of the Hurricane Kind

2007-06-01T15:13:00.000-04:00

Inventors are getting better and better at helping homeowners protect their homes against hurricanes.

Today we took a look at University of Florida's "Hurricane House" in Davie.

Please check out our on-site report on Hurricane House below.

This is one of four facilities, soon to be six, that showcases and demonstrates products that help hurricane-proof your home. The house itself can withstand 140 mph winds and contains a steel "safe room" to protect you against tornadoes in Central Florida.

Each and every product inside this hurricane house has the Miami-Dade County seal of approval or NOA (Notice of Acceptance) which means it has been tested to withstand up to a "CAT 5" hurricane.

You can tour the Hurricane House for free, like we did and learn more about Storm Shield, Armor Screen and new construction methods to hurricane-proof your home.

It'll make you think twice about home improvement.

Broward County HOAs and Condo Associations, It’s Broward Beautiful Grant Time Again

2007-05-31T14:23:00.000-04:00

Don’t forget that your applications for the free money to beautify landscaping around your community are due June 8 at noon!

Broward Beautiful Community Grants Program will give you anywhere from $1500 to $10,000 for a project providing it’s on public property or common areas visible to the general public.

You can spruce up a small park, right of way or entranceway to your community, in any community in Davie, Cooper City, Weston, wherever, because the grant is countywide.

Gated communities have a bit of a speedbump because they can only apply for projects outside the gates, however, it is still a worthwhile effort because many gated communities have more than one entrance and many borders.

There are rules. You can only use the money for plants, sod and mulch. And out of the set of plants allowed, at least half have to be Florida native plants.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has defined native as "a species that occurred in Florida at the time of European contact or 1500” … that grow naturally in our area, without our interference.

They include arrowroot, coontie and wild lime, and can attract butterflies as well as people. For a list click here.

And it all has to meet code.

Look For Top 5 Republican Nominee Hopeful FRED THOMPSON’S BLOG…Soon

2007-05-31T11:49:00.000-04:00

Professional journalists and citizen bloggers alike can add political candidates to their list of peers.

Tennessean, Law and Order star and Republican nominee hopeful, Fred Thompson, is going to become a blogmaster.

Right smack “above the fold” on USA Today’s front page, is Thompson declaring the actor’s life a yawn, therefore he plans to launch a “tech-savvy” campaign of blogs, video posts and forum participation to reach voters otherwise turned off by political theater.

At first, Thompson’s YouTube approach sounded intimidatingly intrusive, but after the initial shock of having a little space where I could safely hide from “the world” with my Missy Elliot and Lil’ Kim vids, I think I can dig it.

Regardless of your political preference, this is big.

You could ask questions directly, 24/7, the most brilliant questions – you know, the ones that pop into your head at 3 a.m. And you probably could expect a few non-filtered answers and comments from other participants/candidates.

Obama started it all when he asked that “any video from the presidential debates be made available to the public afterwards, free of copyright protections.”

Imagine also the chance to privately review, from all speeches, debates and press conferences until you were darn sure you understood the body language AND the words.

Hey, it's a start. Others will follow suit.

July. Watch for it from the safety of your laptop.

Golly! It's the New Plantation Midtown Trolley!

2007-05-30T18:33:00.000-04:00

Plantation residents, got a doctor’s appointment, need to pick up a birthday present and then head to City Hall for a permit? Take the trolley and take the kids!

Plantation’s new trolley is so cute that for ABSOLUTELY NOTHING you can entertain tots on a fun ride and get around town to do shopping and errands.

All municipal buildings are included in the trolley’s scheduled stops, as are major shopping destinations, such as The Broward Mall, and The Fountains Shoppes. But the city took every resident’s need into consideration, because the inclusion of stops at the Westside Regional Medical Center, is nothing short of a godsend.

This thing is amazing, folks. Modeled after the Rice-A-Roni version on the commercial, this trolley comes complete with authentic markings, wood seats, ringing bells, colorful paint, and brass fixtures. But Plantation has spared no expense at creating a comfortable womb inside with A/C, ADA requirements and bike racks. Cool!

Also included on route are the West Regional Courthouse and the West Regional Library.

The Trolley runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, every 10 minutes.

It’s Never Been Better Time To Buy

2007-05-30T18:03:00.000-04:00

I don’t want to be a nudge, but…

Town meetings with local legislators lead many a frustrated and confused resident in Dade and Broward County to the conclusion that Tallahassee can only agree on one thing: taxes need reform.

But who benefits (right now longtime homeowners – aided by Save Our Homes - and first-time buyers) and how the process will be set up is still seemingly so out of their reach to develop.

So far, the only “plan” has been called “unconstitutional,” and smacks of side-stepping and stalemates.

I give to you a quote from the Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan educational organization specializing in tax research, based in Washington, D.C. “The proper policy would be to cut taxes equally for all types of property, and not just those owned by individuals that have the most political influence.”

Does this sound a tad idealistic?

Sounds like it’ll be a long haul folks, so take advantage.

And if the Governor’s plan to double the Homestead Exemption (to $50,000) wins, due to the complicated explanations given by legislators to voters who decide they just don’t get it, and vote “Christ Plan,” then it’s off to the races for you!!

So I urge you, first-timers, to consider looking into some of these awesome condos and homes in South Florida.

At the risk of sounding cliché, “it’s never been a better time to buy.”

Efficient, “Paperless” Electronic Real Estate Transactions On The Rise

2007-05-29T15:27:00.000-04:00

Nothing spells D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R like a missed call from your real estate broker saying you are missing a signature, therefore the closing has been delayed.

In an effort to serve the homebuyer in a faster, more efficient manner, said Inman News, more brokers have been custom-designing, buying and using web-based “transaction management systems” that allow homebuyers to buy paperless.

Inman spotlights Canadian real estate broker Rick Dubord, who has begun testing his custom-built software this month allowing him to update transactions from anywhere. It can even allow for documents to be signed electronically via Tablet PCs.

This May, Instanet launched DocBox, which can be accessed from any computer in the world with internet access, reduces document scanning and allows for unlimited emailing of any document, via PDF format to any address you choose.

In Januaury, Bank Technology News featured Hawaiian mortgage broker Donna Iwane who developed a Web application that creates loan proposals in less than a minute. Now, as CEO and founder of the eMortgEdge Corporation, developers of the 1003 Power product which can create an ARM loan in a New York nano.

And even as far back as 2005, lender Homecomings
Financial, stated it used BlitzDocs® as its web-based wholesale loan solution, processing applications from start to closing. The lender said the relationship with the broker remained intact and even the valuation process was automated. Hmm…

Undoubtedly one of the best things about this process is allowing homebuyers to access their accounts via the internet, from home or work, and check the status of the transaction. Everyone is on the same page and can see everything that is going on. Plus, with an infinite market featuring internet listings via email, online advertising and online virtual tours it makes sense the rest of the process should be online and faster.

New Hurricane Home Protection Tech On Exhibit

2007-05-29T09:29:00.000-04:00

I don’t want to brag, but…

We’re getting pretty good at protecting our homes during hurricanes.

In fact, on May 25, an official “Hurricane House” facility built on the University of Florida's campus in Davie was opened to the public to showcase new hurricane home protection technology. You can tour the Hurricane House for free, and you can learn about products that can help your home withstand a category 5 hurricane and up to 140 mph winds.

The best part is that not only has this stuff been tested and approved by Miami-Dade County's benchmark product-approval process, some of the products are actually covered by grants you can apply for (i.e. you don’t have to pay).

The purpose, said University of Florida officials, was to demonstrate that it’s possible to build new homes that are hurricane-proof. But those of us with existing homes can benefit by identifying our own “problem spots” and using the new tech to address them.

On display were three types of window shutters, impact-resistant doors, steel “safe rooms,” and an alternative to shutters: thick, flexible accordion “screens.”

Hurricane House is located on the University of Florida campus at 3205 College Avenue, in Davie. Make an appointment to visit Hurricane House by calling 954-805-4556.

I’ll Take a McMansion Happy Deal

2007-05-28T21:01:00.000-04:00

According to a May Associated Press report, though the average size of the American family is getting smaller, Americans’ “appetite for bigger homes … keeps growing.”

American homes are nearly twice the size as those in Europe, it said.

In Sofla, they’re referring to McMansions, sprouting up everywhere in lots where outdated ramblers once stood.

McMansions are typically homes averaging 3000 square feet or more, with a minimum of two-and-a-half bathrooms, two stories high, with wings, and two-car garages, usually found sandwiched between 1960s ranch homes in Miami, or found in large, shiny clusters, like Weston.

I’ve heard from many who find it distasteful to bulldoze old homesteads, that they are the new homes of those who give up. Those who hate renovating and restoring, and those who have a penchant for the bland. Criticisms of McMansions often include a waste of heat and utilities, and “too much house in too little lot.”

But while many bash McMansions and dismiss this contemporary expression of practical comfort - I find them positively snuggly.

For one thing, they aren’t all alike. McMansions come in very different exterior styles, such as Mediterranean, French country, faux Tudor, and neo-Colonial. And it’s comforting that choosing from any one of these styles won’t leave you sans a media room or family room/kitchen. On the inside, they are very similar. Check out these in Pembroke Pines.

Which brings me to point number two: who ever uses rooms like the “living room” anymore?

Most of us live in an enormous combination family room/kitchen/office. With a few bathrooms nearby.

And fans of new construction will tell you, there’s nothing like a plethora of walk-in closets, vaulted ceilings, mold-free brand new a/c systems, hurricane shutters, and new plumbing. But they’re far more than pest-free. These cozy dwellings are the perfect turnkey existence where your family is your focus, and not the weekend warrior projects. And furthermore, they are priced right. Many of these start at $250,000 in areas where good schools and great neighbors can be found.

They provide a nest where you can truly rest and simply enjoy.

Everglades Finds Itself Coyote Ugly

2007-05-28T20:08:00.000-04:00

Dangerous lizards. Burmese python infestations. And now this. It seems that South Florida has a new predator giving the above a good run for their money.
They’re quick, they’re loners and they trample our lawns!

It’s Wile E. Coyote and all his cousins, and according to the Miami Herald’s Monday front page, they’re here by the minions.

The first thing that comes to mind is, will they pose a threat to my pets?
The answer is: Not if you keep your pets inside.

Most of us know enough not to leave our precious family friends out during the day because it is so bloody hot. But now we have to take coyotes into consideration.

Adult coyotes, according to a recent University of Florida study, grow up to 37 pounds and can kill and eat livestock. That is definitely bigger than your cat.

And somehow, they also manage to trample expensive landscaping.

You’ll know if you have them, because they leave a little “gift” for you in the form of elongated feces, near any “kill.” You may also find tracks, longer and narrower than a dog’s.

Possibly posing no threat to panthers, and most certainly not to alligators, South Florida coyotes are, however, finding, digging up and eating endangered sea turtle eggs.

So they’re smart. They’ve also been known to devour a watermelon or two.

The most important thing is to call the right people to trap, and (humanely) remove these critters from your area, if indeed they are not already ridding the area of small annoying rodents. Try Miami Animal Removal.

Miami High School Ranks in Top 20 out of 1200 in Newsweek

2007-05-24T14:30:00.000-04:00

So whatever "they've" said about Florida schools is now outdated information unless it involves talk about them being some of the best in the nation.

Coral Reef High School, known for being Miami’s only “mega-magnet” high school, was ranked number 20 out of The 1200 Top U.S. Schools in 2007 published by Newsweek.

The ranking system, designed according to a ratio devised by Washington Post's Jay Mathews is produced by counting the number of Advanced Placement, Intl. Baccalaureate and/or Cambridge tests taken by all students at a school last year, 2006, divided by the number of graduating seniors. Coral Reef Senior High has already received top ratings from the Florida Department of Education for three consecutive years and is ranked number 1 in Miami-Dade County.

This Miami-Dade County public high school offers six different magnet programs such as International Baccalaureate, Leisure Medicine and Health Sciences, Legal and Public Affairs. And the campus located in southwest Miami, is one-of-a-kind. Built close to Biscayne Bay, it features a community park, as well as football, soccer, softball and baseball fields, and marine sports. Coral Reef is also close to Palmetto Golf Course, Florida’s Turnpike, Coral Reef Branch Library, and homes for sale in Cutler Ridge Pines and Cutler Bay Estates.

Amazingly, the rankings were flooded with Florida schools. There's actually a total of 18 Florida schools in the Top 100 of Newsweek's Top 1200 U.S. Schools!!

Coming in ahead of Coral Reef were Stanton College Prep at number 3, in Jacksonville; Suncoast Community at number 5, in Riviera Beach; Paxon School for Advanced Studies at number 15, in Jacksonville; Eastside in Gainsville at number 16; and Dreyfoos School of the Arts at 17, in West Palm Beach.

Number 22, Center for Advanced Technologies, in St. Petersburg, came in right after Coral Reef, and so did number 26, Hillsborough, in Tampa.

Further down the list, Spruce Creek in Port Orange came in at number 54, H.B. Plant in Tampa came in at number 64, Cocoa Beach in Cocoa Beach came in at number 65, St. Petersburg in St. Petersburg came in at number 66, Fort Myers in Fort Myers came in at number 67, MAST Academy in Miami was number 68, Nease in St. Augustine was number 78, Miami Palmetto in Miami was 79th, Cypress Creek in Orlando was number 86, and Buchholz in Gainesville was number 94.

So proud to hear, I'm buying a lottery ticket today.

URBAN BEACH WEEK 2007

2007-05-23T16:44:00.000-04:00

It’s back. And it’s better than ever.

The 8th Annual Urban Beach Week 2007 is hitting Miami Beach and this year, more than 350,000 people are expected to attend.

The party begins on Thursday night in South Beach at Mansion, which hosts high-profile events such as The White Party. Britney Spears and J. Lo have partied here at this 40,000-square-foot, three-level, nine-bar club, formerly known as Level.

Get the scoop from our Expert Realty cast on location in SoBe here.

On Thursday and Friday, Opium’s having a Blast-Off Party Featuring Steelie Bashment, Massive B., Supa Sound w/Supa Twitch, DJ Khaled, Street League, and a score of other NYC and Miami DJs.

On Sunday, Big Daddy Kane and Hoodini will be live with Slick Rick for Old School Sunday at the Marlin Hotel. This is the place to dance the night away with your favorites like Salt-n-Pepa and Run DMC.

But don't tarry folks, because tickets are now on sale for the Best of the Best Reggae Concert at Bicentennial Park with guest host Akon.

Throughout the weekend, celeb hotspots where you can see and be seen will be Wet Willies, Clevelander and Fat Tuesday.

Urban Beach Week started as a fashion show for rap artists and evolved into a big party weekend with celeb royalty and heavy-hitting African-American blue suits over the course of the last three years.

Residents of Drexel Condo, Cosmopolitan, Lincoln West Gardens, and Parc Plaza, enjoying Art Deco or luxury condos starting around $200,000s, are walking-distance to all the action.

You can be too. For more information on more $200,000 South Beach condos visit our website at www.ExpertRealty.com.

Second Homes Come in First

2007-05-23T00:37:00.000-04:00

Ever wonder why people want to pack up everything they need to be comfortable to unpack it again just for one week in another house?

Because Jones does it.

According to an April NAR survey, 2006 saw more than 1 million vacation home sales. And the kicker is that folks weren't buying for investment, they were actually enjoying the property.

NAR said "the typical vacation-home buyer in 2006 was 44 years old and had a median household income of $102,000. The vacation home was a median of 215 miles from the homeowners’ primary residence."

Phoeba Chongchua, columnist for Realty Times said you don't have to be rich to afford a vacation home, either. And that defraying costs is as easy as renting the property, for even as little as 17 weeeks a year. But Broderick Perkins, also a columnist for Realty Times, stated more logical means for the purchase: Baby Boomers. There's that word again. How much do these people actually have to spend?

According to Perkins they're taking advantage of the fact coastal properties are appreciating faster than ever, favorable tax laws, low mortgage rates and have money to burn. But mostly because folks want to ease up the travel time, safety issues and enjoy a home away from home close to their home.

Pricey Properties

2007-05-22T23:20:00.000-04:00

Most Expensive Home, Most Expensive Beachfront Home, it's all the same.

When you're looking for the biggest and the best, only one thing comes to mind in South Florida, lately, and it's Maison de L'Amitie. Click below to see our cast give it to you live from the Writer's Block!

Also dubbed Trump's Palace by the Sea, this 80,000-plus square foot home in Palm Beach went on the market one year ago and since then, has been added to, renovated again and drooled over by business tycoons and private investors.

Maison has a conservatory, 100-foot pool, Jacuzzi, three 3000-plus square foot guest houses, atrium, nearly 500 feet of oceanfront, and made Forbes'Top Ten of Most Expensive Homes in the World 2007, the second year in a row.

Built in 1990, by health care investor, Abe Gosman, it sits on property purchased for a few mill in 1986.

While Trump still resides in Mar A Lago, he ponders whether he should continue to add or move in.
But that's Palm Beach, my dahlings.

In Miami, condos are the bigger, better, faster. Zilbert put together a list of the 100 Most Expensive Condos in Miami - and these mosters come with amenities to make you rent your home and take a permanent vaca.

For a mere $30 mill you can own a fully-furnished, four-bedroom, four-bathroom, 6000 square foot condo in Setai on South Beach with sweeping views of the Atlantic.

A better deal might be found at the Continuum I and II. This luxury oceanfront condo in Miami Beach offers 7500 square feet, cathedral ceilings, private pool and Jacuzzi, five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, marble floors and maids quarters for a mere $25 million.

I don't want to be a penny pincher, but that's $100 million LESS than Maison, and you still get a semi-private beach.

But you don't need to be a millionaire. NAR released information this week that the median house price in Miami is about $350,000, if you can manage with about 2300 square feet, three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths.

Real Estate Roller Coaster - Google Video

2007-05-21T21:47:00.000-04:00

Real Estate Roller Coaster - Google Video

Many have tried to explain it through words, but the best way to get it, is to get on it. Watch this feed from Google...

Net Gen Big Impact on Condo Market

2007-05-21T15:49:00.000-04:00

Remember our Expert Realty Blog last week about Britney Spears looking for a $30 million home in Miami Beach. (Her 15-minute concert at Mansion on Sunday May 20 supposedly rocked the house).

Well, the 25-year-old is part of a growing trend.

NAR reports younger home buyers equal one third of the total home buying population. Opting not to wait until marriage or promotions, or other life-changing events, 25 to 29-year-olds are investing in real estate despite the "cooling" climate.

The report cited various reasons for the trend. One is that they’re “Net Gen” defined as the first generation born and raised between 1977 and 1996 in the era of the Internet, to whom the internet is part of daily life. Online real estate companies who played on their turf, reached these buyers. Another reason is that baby boomers, who account for 56% of the nation’s wealth, are bequeathing their wealth to their children. So these buyers have disposable, people.

Now realtors and brokers have to be faster, on top of Internet trends and news Net Gen-eral cares about.

Last week, Joel Burslem, the voice behind futureofrealestatemarketing.com and PR and social internet marketing guru for Inman News said “big brokers shouldn’t worry about Redfin - what they should be worried about is (realtors marketing properties on)Facebook,” a high-brow MySpace, run by a crowd of brilliant, predominantly 20- to 30-somethings, where realtors are booking sales on properties as easily as rides home for winter break.

FYI: These kids like it downtown, said the report, pointing to high condo sales in urban areas, as evidence.

Don’t quit. Enviroscape!

2007-05-21T14:50:00.000-04:00

I’m cheap.

Hate to waste gas, so I turn off my car A/C every night at 7 p.m.

Hate to waste electricity so I only turn on one large lamp in the middle of the first floor from 9 p.m. until I retire at 11 p.m.

According to South Florida Water Management District Service Center we’re in the middle of year five of one of the worst water shortages in history. This year’s below average rainfall and last year’s decision to lower Lake Okeechobee, (in the event of hurricanes that thankfully never came), depleted South Florida's water supply. Water restrictions are expected to remain in effect at least until the mid-summer, with tighter restrictions effective May 16 for Broward and Palm Beach Counties. The lake continues to be below normal for this time of year pointing to an even tougher water crisis in 2008.

So why does my yard look like an Amazon rainforest? Sucking the life out of my house budget?

And, adding insult to injury, danger lurks for the well-intentioned homeowner who just gives up on his lawn during the water crisis. Today NBC6 reported the City of Riviera Beach, Florida actually fined homeowners with brown lawns, for letting their grass die during the drought.

Listen up folks. One word: Xeriscape.

Homeowners associations are looking at plants like bougainvillea, Mexican sagebush, blackfoot daisy, red yucca, and lazy daisy as a way to reduce water consumption.

Don't forget to add mulch. Mulching avoids water evaporation from the soil surface, provides ground cover so you use less plants and suppress weeds. Three to four inches of mulch ought to do it.

All plants need water until they are established, regardless of whether they are xeriscape plants or not, say landscape architecture officials in the City of Plantation (Tree City USA), but once they are, they can definitely reduce water requirements.

Modified PHASE II Restrictions, are as follows:

Lawn watering and car washing are limited to twice a week from 4-8 a.m. on:

Wednesdays and Saturdays for those with home addresses ending with ODD numbers (1,3,5,7,9)

Thursdays and Sundays for those with home addresses ending with EVEN numbers (0,2,4,6,8) or those with no number in the address.

Hand watering (with a hose with a shut-off nozzle) is allowed every day except Friday, from 5-7 p.m. as necessary to prevent plant die-off.

Tip-Mart RentersQ ends the drama

2007-05-17T15:56:00.000-04:00

So you found a great deal in today’s buyer’s market for the home of your dreams, but…you’re scared to plant a “For Sale” in your front yard because of the time it might take to sell your home?

Even the St. Joseph statue buried in your backyard is little comfort?

There’s still time to change to road you’re on.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as many as 5,373 Americans move every day. They all can’t be buying.

And, if you expect your house to appreciate in value over the next three years, which we do in SoFla, don't sell it - rent it. Becoming a landlord isn’t a bad idea.

For starters, becoming a landlord offers attractive tax perks and frees you to become an active home buyer without the headache.

SmartMoney lists the Top 10 tax deductions for landlords as being interest, depreciation, repairs, local travel, long distance travel, home office, employees and independent contractors, casualty and theft losses, insurance, and legal and professional services.

Also helpful for first-timers, is a recommended reading list from National Association of Residential Property Managers http://www.narpm.org/about/recommended-reading.html.

But the key to making this work is peace of mind.

This month, Tip-Mart Inc., debuted RentersQ – a free screening system that makes a prospective tenant’s payment and tenant history available online to prospective landlords so detailed it even tells you if the person smokes, has pets or is noisy. In other words, it rates the prospective tenant’s desirability from 0 to 100.

Nolo.com, a provider of legal information for consumers and small businesses, said the first thing a would-be first-time landlord needs to do is to make a decision based solely on business, not from the gut. Like, “I think he looks like a responsible guy.” And that’s exactly what Tip-Mart’s RentersQ says it does for you.

HOT SOUTH FLORIDA HOMES WARM COOL MARKET

2007-05-17T13:12:00.000-04:00

Rumors that Britney Spears is joining the ranks of celebs still flocking to buy star-studded real estate in Miami just goes to show, there’s no slow in the market for luxury South Florida homes.

Fueled by her "comeback concert," her divorce settlement and her new hair growth, she has placed her Malibu home for sale, and looking over properties in Miami Beach in the $30 million price range.

Latin hipmaster and pop star Shakira is selling her North Bay Road 6500-square foot manse for $6 million but opting to stay in the neighborhood she shares with P. Diddy, Lenny Kravitz, Shaquille O’Neil, Billy Joel, and Matt Damon, and willing to pay thrice the amount to do it.

This uber-priced Miami celebrity home trend can be traced back to real estate investor Todd Michael Glaser known for mammoth Miami high-rises (Ten Museum Park and Element) who flipped his 20,000-square-foot 5020 North Bay Road home (Carl Fisher Estate - the biggest on North Bay Road), for nearly $40 million, just one month after hitting the market in 2006, breaking Miami-Dade County's record for the 1999, single-family home sale of $27.5 million.

And what does nearly $40 million buy in Miami these days? Well, lots of bathrooms for sure (see Blog entry below) and: 2 two-story, one-bedroom guest villas, a carriage house, poolside cabana, coffered ceilings, 1,400 square-foot loggia with fireplace, wine cellar, expansive outdoor marble terrace, bank-size hidden safe, 2,000+ square-foot master suite with a separate 430 square-foot terrace, street-front privacy wall, 270 feet of waterfront, and a massive dock built to accommodate a 90+ foot yacht.

The prices don’t change up the coast, either.

Tiger , once an Orlando resident, moved into our nick of the Woods. He bought a $38 million, 10-acre compound on Jupiter Island in 2006.

And finally, Cher, who’s “Miami Struck” and collecting Miami properties, is selling her Key Biscayne home, but according to The Miami Herald, does not plan to move away from the Magic City and also owns a home on LaGorce Island and a vacant lot on Tahiti Beach in Coral Gables.

So, Britney, we're sure you'll find a nice new Latin boy in Miami who will treat you right, and we're happy you've moved on.

Bal Harbour Bathrooms = Blue Chip Stock

2007-05-16T17:13:00.000-04:00

Synonymous with luxury and over-indulgence, it stands to reason that in Bal Harbour, there’s no waiting.

If anyone wants to use the loo, they simply use the one they have en suite.

According to Trulia, Bal Harbour has the most full bathrooms (toilet, sink, shower, and bathtub) per bedrooms, averaging one bathroom per every one bedroom, in the entire state of Florida. Meaning, if an oceanfront, luxury Bal Harbour condo has five bedrooms, then five bathrooms it shall have.

But is it over-indulgence or plain good sense?

Sites like Mock Realty and Trulia must think it’s important to list it under resale values, or at minimum, in fun facts just under Most Expensive Houses. For instance you don’t garner the same excitement from the number of windows or doors in a house.

A bathroom seems to be, well, the throne room. The only place you can demand “Privacy!” without anyone thinking you’re anti-social, egotistical, criminal, or selfish.

If you’re buying a home, a two-bathroom minimum should be a priority if the house is a starter, investment or just short of being the “dream home.” Preferably two-and-a-half. It’s a toss up whether a shower or a bathtub with shower a full bathroom doth make.

Due to the overwhelming popularity of showers over tubs for speed's sake, including seniors who prefer the safety of stepping into a shower as opposed to a tub, replacing a tub with a shower is not a risk.

If you’re thinking of selling, on average a mid-scale bathroom remodel can cost about $10,000. But you can expect to recoup at least 88% of the cost at resale. Bathrooms updates that are highly successful will almost always include custom cabinetry, updated tile and permanently-affixed lighting. But then there are the distinctive features that can be done at low cost such as dual showerheads and whirlpool tubs that can significantly pique buyer interest.

Dig deep for the coup d’etat: heated floors, stereo systems and heated towel racks.

Bathrooms strongly affect resale. A mid-scale bathroom remodel is ranked Number 2 out of a list of more than 20 renovations that will deliver a high resale value. An upscale bathroom remodel is Number 7. And bathroom additions, both mid-scale and upscale were listed high on the Top 10 of moderate resale values.

And if the time it takes to update your bathroom is the one factor that stops you, try BathFitter.com. They measure and install acrylic bath, shower and walls that are custom-molded to fit right over existing fixtures, in one day.

To Market To Market To Buy Some Fat Diggs...

2007-05-15T15:14:00.000-04:00

With a menu as varied as that of an all-you-eat hotel brunch buffet, Florida's housing market is still a much talked-about and speculated-over enigma.

The New York Times today would have you believing small Florida towns with less traffic have cornered the market on stability in the state, but experts in the field who say "thumbs up," on a national level, are reflective of the actual activity in our nick of the woods.

According to the latest quarterly survey by the National Association of Realtors®, existing national home sales were 2.4 percent higher at an annual rate than they were in the last quarter of 2006.

Pat V. Combs, the National Association of Realtors president said "It appears the worst of the price correction is behind us."

Median home prices surveyed are listed on a table here.

Zooming in, realtors also agree that small waterfront condos in prime locations, such as up-and-coming North Miami Beach, or large luxury condos in Miami are still in high demand, especially if they feature resort-style amenities.

But other South Florida cities, not especially favored for waterfront lifestyles or eclectic shopping districts, are more than just stable.

By the looks of my old neighborhood in Weston, a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in The Ridges is actually priced $65,000 more than mine mid-2005.

WHY DIDN’T XTARP’S SELF-ADHESIVE POST-STORM ROOFING TARP WIN???

2007-05-14T16:23:00.000-04:00

Are we so numb to hurricanes in Miami that we can’t see a blessing if it sticks to our roof?

The Miami Herald’s 9th Annual Business Plan Contest drew 135 entries from throughout the southeast U.S., among them XTarp, a revolutionary, post-storm, roof-saving product.

But the People’s Pick was some do-it-yourself invitation CD ROM.

Why?

Hurricane season doesn’t even start for another two weeks and we’ve just had our first tropical storm Andrea with 40-mph winds.

Forget custom invites, and listen up folks.

Antonio Diaz, airplane engine tester, entrepreneur and inventor has a product that will blow you away, but prevent your roof from doing the same.

XTarp: A 4-layer, 23 milimeter-thick, 10" by 12", poly-woven laminate SELF-ADHESIVE ROOF TARP!!!

It’s so simple, says Diaz, a 9-year-old can use it. You can shinny up your roof and repair your hard-to-cover S-tile, (or barrel-tile), roof after a storm. Then, when the roofers can’t get to your house even after a whole year, and the next hurricane season begins, the dang thing will still be adhering to your roof, withstanding up to 110-mph winds!!! (Maybe more once testing for 200 mph winds is complete).

XTarp molds to tile, shingles, concrete, rubber, metal, and PVC. It eliminates the use of those horrible blue tarps, which require sandbags (impossible to lift up a ladder on your shoulders), bricks, hammer, or nails.

XTarp actually comes in two sizes, 6” by 6” and 10” by 12”. XTarp can also adhere to itself, so you can layer them to cover a greater area, but Diaz said most roof damage is isolated so you won’t need to buy an enormous amount.

Best of all, Diaz said the adhesive is non-toxic and Ozone-safe, and will not attract mold, algae or bacteria!

The product is classified as a "temporary" product so it doesn't require state approval, but it's been tested and has a Miami-Dade County product number. Visit them at the Florida Governor's Hurricane Conference at the Ft. Lauderdale Convention Center May 16 & 17, 2007 in booth 202. Or at the Palm Beach Post Storm Show June 9 and 10. Or call and order from Diaz direct, 305-781-6443.

Unless you’re too busy designing invitations on your computer. sigh.

In the Hood

2007-05-14T13:10:00.000-04:00

Today’s South Florida housing market leaves buyers sorting through handfuls of properties. If selecting one home from hundreds of properties is a daunting task, imagine doing so from another city.

But you can narrow the selection, down to which the street gets morning sun and has the last school bus stop, by getting to know the neighborhood like the back of your hand before you buy.

One of “The Donald’s” top-rated real estate advisors, Phoebe Chongchua, and author of many real-estate lifestyle books, says studying the 'hood is key to investing well.

Checking crime statistics as well as accident reports at the local police department - no matter how well-maintained the area is - will help you determine whether the area is at your comfort level.

Chongchua said investigating traffic issues and school systems are also an indication of whether your investment will be safe. She states that actually living too close to a busy school with large traffic backups can negatively affect resale opportunities.

Other tell-tale signs of established, upwardly-mobile neighborhoods include the number of homes being renovated or updated (are neighbors sticking around), the types of stores at local malls (trendy boutiques versus dollar stores), landscape and amenities at neighboring communities (is the community you’re looking at the norm, or a fluke). Some communities, such as The Ridges in Weston also post information on regular community-wide updates, or standards, letting you know how frequently or how extensively HOA-related activity ripples.

Many cities also offer specific information on their websites about youth sports and family activities, such as Weston and Davie, which accurately frame priorities in that area.

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE – “HOT ON THE 95-EXPRESS”

2007-05-11T13:48:00.000-04:00

We’ve all done it, and the State of Florida figures we’ll continue, so now we’re going to have to pay to Live Life in the Fast Lane.

Miami Herald released Monday that the Florida Department of Transportation plans to use the HOV lane on I-95, as a “variably-priced” express lane from downtown Miami to I-595, and call it the “95 Express.”

Depending on how long of a stretch you use the HOV lane (now toll lane) while traveling during one commute on I-95, or at what time of day (during heavy traffic or not) you use it, there will be a fee tied to that use.

Through the use of a system of high tech “restriping,” the HOV lanes will magically turn into HOT (High Occupancy Toll) lanes for everybody but express transit buses and three-or-more passenger vehicles.

According to the article, we’ll get 4 lanes on I-95 for free and 2 barrier-separated lanes for “95 Express.”

People will benefit from 95 Express expecially around Aventura and North Miami.

For now it’s just a plan, as they have to build the barriers, restripe the road, and hook up adjusting costs to SunPass, which currently has 3 million users. According to DOT reps, the southbound express lanes won't be ready until October 2008 because a bridge on FL 112 needs updating.

So first, we’ll actually be going a little slower.

GOLF CARTS: Not Just For Tee Time Anymore

2007-05-11T12:41:00.000-04:00

Lately I’ve been spotting more and more of what I thought were golf carts on the road.

Families happily weaving around Fisher Island, Coconut Grove, Weston, Plantation, South Beach, from shop to restaurant and back home, in an open-air cart, without parking hassles or traffic woes.

The word on these is that they’re actually Golf Cars, better known as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) or Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) which can run on electricity or gas. LSVs and NEVs offer a variety of advantages, like low-cost and energy-efficient, convenient transportation. They're quieter, don't pollute and are fun!!!

However, before you run out and buy one, according to Ari Scott of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Commission, all LSVs have to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500 in order to be permitted general on-road use.

This means they have to be equipped with “seat belts, headlamps, stop lights, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rearview mirrors, polymer windshields, and VIN numbers.”

State and local governments, said Scott, are responsible for authorizing their use and deciding on what roads they may be used. In recent years, a growing number of states from California to Florida have passed legislation authorizing their general on-road use.

Here in Florida an LSV or NEV is authorized on any public street where the posted speed is 35 MPH or less, or the top speed is between 20 to 25 MPH. They also must go at least 20 MPH to be street legal, or it’s “back to the golf course” they go.

LSVs are economical too, starting at $1995 for a used, gas-using model. As you add more seating, and accessories such as custom paint, gun racks or cooler crates, they can soar to $10,000. Check out the local options at Southern Golf Cars.

LSVs are a growing part of everyday life here in South Florida. The more we understand what they are, the better general motorists can avoid sideswiping or smashing into who drives them.

Asian-Pacific Mini Film Fest Fast Approaches

2007-05-10T14:18:00.000-04:00

Look no further than your own backyard to get a sneak peak at Pan Asian films. On May 14, the Asian Pacific Cinema miniseries is coming to town at the Weston Branch Library.

Three films on Monday 14, Wednesday 16 and Saturday 19, and assortment of Asian music, literature and art will be on display at the library all tailored to meet the needs of Weston’s fast-growing Asian population.

The library, located on Bonaventure Boulevard, across from The Ridges community and kitty corner from The Courtyard at the Groves, is a big branch with several meeting rooms and an enormous children’s section, so the events should be comfortable.

Those who don’t live in Weston should try to make it from all points east, because the likelihood of this event happening annually depends on your participation, folks.

Top off your experience by dining at Moon Thai for their outstanding red curry and Thai Tea, Japan Inn, Myung Ga Tofu BBQ Korean restaurant (love those scallion and scallop pancakes), or other Asian restaurants in Weston after the film.

Showtimes are from 6:30 to 8:00 pm weekdays, and on Saturday May 19 the event runs from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., in the multipurpose room and entrance is free!

楽しみなさい! (ENJOY)

DON’T FORGET TO “STAMP OUT HUNGER” WITH POSTAL CARRIERS THIS SATURDAY

2007-05-10T13:20:00.000-04:00

It’s not the holidays and it’s not a Sunday church collection, but it is important.

So you think we live in the land of plenty?

Before I became a narrow-minded, mean-spirited, ungenerous, self-preserving urbanite momzilla with kids, I had a heart.

I served food at Camillus House soup kitchens on Thanksgiving. I gave money to random homeless people. I cleaned the galley of the Sea Shepherd vessel, the Eco-Pirates of the Sea, to aid in their effort to wipe out whale poachers in Asiatic Seas.

Last year, more than 25 million Americans, including 9 million children and nearly 3 million seniors had to rely on emergency food services, according to Hunger in America.

That’s more than three times the population of New York City!

On Saturday, May 12, THE MOTHER OF ALL FOOD DRIVES on Mother's Day weekend, WILL TAKE PLACE. Letter carriers (MAILMEN) across the USA will collect non-perishable food donations as they deliver mail along their postal routes in a one-day effort to combat hunger in America.

Please help by placing canned meat, canned fish, soup, cereals, pasta, and rice, in a decent-sized and strong bag, near your mailbox on Saturday morning really early before your letter carrier arrives. Do not donate glass containers. Canned and box goods, preferably.

Won’t you start off your Mother’s Day weekend with the right attitude, male or female, and nurture through nutrition?

Summer Vacation Checklist: Pool Safety

2007-05-09T12:54:00.000-04:00

“In my head I hear a humming:
Summer, summer, summer's coming...
swimming's much more cool
Swimming in a swimming pool..."

And so the poem goes. The children will be free as quick as thought. Have you fenced your pool yet?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests installing fences and gates completely around pools. Here are some guidelines for pool barriers, provided by FenceOnline.com .

1. The fence or other barrier should be at least 4 feet high. It should have no foot or handholds that could help a child climb it.

2. Vertical fence slats should be less than 4 inches apart to prevent a child from squeezing through.

3. The maximum clearance at the bottom of the barrier should not exceed 4 inches above the ground, when the measurement is done on the outside of the barrier, the part that is facing away from the pool.

4. Gates should open away from the pool, not into the pool, and should be self- closing and self-latching. The gate should have no opening greater than ½ inch within 18 inches of the latch release mechanism.

Swimming pool barrier guidelines are not a CPSC standard nor are they mandatory requirements. The CPSC hopes that we’ll know enough to use these as a minimum starting point.

Lifesaver Pool Fence is a removable safety mesh pool fence designed specifically to provide a safety barrier around residential swimming pools for kids. These fantastic fences, (and I can vouch for them because I own one!) have tough safety mesh (even if kids try to throw themselves against it), support poles, self-closing gate options, and ground caps.

Swimming pools should always be a treat for kids. Ensure they add to your life, as they add value to your home.

How Your House Can Save You Money

2007-05-09T11:55:00.000-04:00

Many of us in Miami feel the sting of having most of our money in the equity of our home after the boom of the late 90s and early 2000s. Increases were slim after the market leveled out, and getting any of it entails selling our home.

And the consequence of having your lovely property be worth more, also involves your taxes being higher, as well. (Even though the State of Florida is currently working on a “reduction in tax increase.”)

But some wise words from one of the nation’s leading tax strategists and columnist, Diane Kennedy, in Realty Times, suggests using certain tax strategies to help homeowners “make money” sitting pretty in their homes.

Kennedy suggests renting your home and getting the tax break for a rental property even though it is still your principal residence. Report the rental on Schedule E, and deduct a portion of home-related expenses, such as power, water and mortgage interest, against rental income.

If you can’t rent out part of your home, create a home office. According to Kennedy, if legitimately own your own business and some portion of your home is used exclusively and regularly for your business, then by figuring out how much of your home is devoted to a home office, you can get the percentage to deduct from home-related expenses. Also, a depreciation deduction from the home office can save thousands on taxes.

These and other great “let your house work for you” ideas can be found in Kennedy’s "Ten HomeLoopholes to Get More Out of Your House.”

JUST WHAT ARE “RESORT-STYLE AMENITIES?”

2007-05-08T13:23:00.000-04:00

Regardless of what public or private agency criteria opines, the term “resort” has always been associated with the ultimate luxury and expense.

Until now.

Typically a place for rest and relaxation, the resort is used to attract visitors to cities and remote destinations not on normal traffic radar by providing all or most of a visitor’s wants or needs, (anything that increases their physical comfort or convenience), on the premises.

But now homebuyers can find a variety of self-contained condos that provide some resort-style features for the price of the unit.

More than ever, one can find luxurious residences with country club service, and lushly-landscaped recreation decks with pools overlooking any body of water, state-of-the-art fitness centers and health spas, on-site restaurants and retail shops, and sometimes, even more.

Residents of The Portofino, a stunning oceanfront condo in Miami Beach, have access to a gym, two pools, tennis courts, recreation centers with billiard tables, and private beach club restaurants. Prices for this chic Miami Beach real estate begin at less than $700,000.

And condos in mixed-use properties, are sometimes merged with hotels, fashioned in a chic, Euro-style with wine and cigar lounges, and other selected services, according to an article on the Miami Condo Market.

But now you can get resort-style amenities for less than $200,000. The Deauville Condo Hotel in Miami beach offers oceanfront living with all the hotel amenities, proving the price of the property no longer has anything to do with the trend.

A Splashing Good Time

2007-05-08T12:12:00.000-04:00

For those of you who think that the ocean is the same from anywhere you slice it, you’d be surprised to find out what makes a beach a cut above the rest. There are some beaches that meet extensive criteria to qualify as a National Certified Healthy Beach.

This month, when you dive into Memorial Day weekend, try out a Recognized Healthy Beach.

The National Healthy Beaches Campaign (NHBC) tests and ranks America’s beaches for park safety, environmental quality, EPA water quality standards, beach cleanliness, and auxiliary and management services. Those that meet or exceed the standards are then labeled a “Recognized Healthy Beach.”

There are many benefits of living near and frequenting National Certified Healthy Beaches, first and foremost being the physical. Poor water quality can actually have major repercussions on the body, causing illnesses such as Gastroenteritis - one result of swimming in sewage-contaminated water. Nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhea, headache and fever are symptoms of Gastroenteritis, which is a fairly large price to pay for taking a dip. Even minor reactions can occur from swimming in polluted water including infections in the ear, eye, skin, nose, and throat.

Dania Beach, Ft. Lauderdale Beach and Crandon Park Beach are Certified Healthy Beaches and also vacation hot-spots, so you’ll find more than just clean water and sand.

Green for the Greens

2007-05-07T13:58:00.000-04:00

Take a drive through the entrance of Runway Growers in Dania Beach to see what $10,000 and a little sweat can do for a neighborhood.

Last weekend, a group of Dania Beach Heights Civic Association volunteers “regreened” the area at the Florida East Coast Railway on Fourth Avenue and Stirling Road, a once-drab façade within the first incorporated city in Broward County.

According to Miami Herald reporter Eileen Soler , more than 1600 eco-friendly flora were planted at the site to attract birds and wildlife, and neighbors, to each other.

Soler said the project was funded through a $10,000 grant from Broward Beautiful, a county program that funds landscape and environmental projects for nonprofit groups.

This project, wrote Soler, is also supposed to beautify a one-of-a-kind proposed Broward County route, known as the Dixie Highway Greenway , which will link many of the east cities’ historic main and downtown areas through a multi-purpose trail that starts in Deerfield Beach at Pioneer Park and ends in Hallandale Beach at Bluesten Park.

College Homesites in Dania are just one of the many areas currently enjoying the new foliage.

TRAFFIC DRIVING YOU MAD? Try Mixed-Use Development

2007-05-07T13:00:00.000-04:00

The Miami Herald’s , February article about relocating strikes a familiar note: how to outsmart the inescapable traffic in Miami.

The issue is so big, but under-addressed by our city, that even common blogs, such as Stuck on the Palmetto , are named after excrutiating commutes.

According to the article, people who moved to the walled residential communities of the suburbs to get away from city grime and stress, are revisiting new-and-improved downtown areas with Mixed-Use Development properties that combine stores, restaurants, condos and offices. Preferring to reside in an area where they can "live, work and play," folks can also drastically reduce commuting time, and spend it with their loved ones.

The Millennium , a 70-story landmark that redefined luxury living in South Florida, integrates a five-star hotel with luxury condos, retail and offices, and recreational facilities. Additionally, residents get hotel services most of us can only dream of, after hours, when you’re exhausted after a long day’s work.

And being just blocks from fine dining, bars, clubs, movie theaters, and interesting grocers, affords residents (now called “new urbanists” according to The Miami Herald) one more luxury: having a life after work.

New urbanists site everything from being raised in the suburbs to not wanting to pay for gas as reasons why they’ve moved.

The article singles out the Shops at Midtown Miami, Young Circle in Hollywood, Mary Brickell Village in Miami, and Las Olas Riverfront in Fort Lauderdale as the current best in Mixed-Use Development, and points to 5.7 million square feet of proposed retail space and 60,000 proposed residential units due in the next year.

For Miami, it will resemble a Midtown Manhattan, it stated.

So is it a new trend? Or are we just catching up?

“A” Alligators All Around

2007-05-03T14:42:00.000-04:00

“M” is for mating. Residents of South Florida, be aware that May is the peak of alligator mating season. Gators are slithering, crawling and creeping around to find their soulmate while you sip your mojito at a bar looking for yours.

As they move around, you can actually see these prehistoric beasts.

I find this works better for me. They never really go “away” so I prefer to see where they are as opposed to bumping into their noses while cycling on a random path.

As usual, if you come across a gator, please use extreme caution. These little guys are more afraid of you than you are of them. Well, no that’s a lie, but Florida law prohibits annoying alligators, and you need a permit to touch them.

That includes trying to tame them, feed them, let Rover sniff them, catch them, or approaching their nest. Hmm.

But there is relief. Any gator longer than four feet, hanging around your pool sipping a mai-tai, is considered a “nuisance” and you may report that nasty freeloader and have it removed by a professional.

Davie and Weston have long been known for their attractiveness to gators so residents there should be particularly watchful. However a stray gator or two looking for love in all the beach places, can show up in North Miami as well.

Internet “Open Houses” First Choice Among Buyers

2007-05-03T14:18:00.000-04:00

What Expert Realty has known for along time, Paul Owers of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel revealed Monday in the paper; internet helps sell homes.

A greater number of realtors have ramped up their marketing on the Web to offset a real estate market lull.

While sitting at their computer keyboards, potential homebuyers check out virtual home tours or home photo galleries. Even when not in the market.

Last year, the report announced, 80 percent of buyers, all over the world, used the internet to look for homes, "up from 18 percent a decade ago, according to the National Association of Realtors."

And with other reports that state another 80,000 people are relocating to South Florida from other states or other countries every year, clearly the internet will narrow their choices so they can physically view only the very favorite options from a selection that could include hundreds of thousands on the web.

Expert Realty’s video slideshows that display photos from almost every corner of every room reveal details down to the size and texture of bathroom flooring as seen in this Miramar property in Bristol Bay.

Owers’s article should also add that offering information on shopping, dining, schools, parks, and other points of interest in the area are important to buyers as well.

Buyers may not have the ability to drive through the neighborhood themselves, or know anyone in the area and are completely dependent upon realtors and their websites to get them acclimated. Not to toot our own horn, but almost too often I hear how “thorough” our website is, or how “much information is on the pages.”

Expert Realty’s website really gives a detailed introduction to the area, even a brief history in some cases on towns, communities and schools, like in the Miramar example.

WESTON HIGH’S LOWS: Part Deux

2007-05-02T12:36:00.000-04:00

After four hours of deliberation, the Broward County School Board chose a 45-acre site in Weston near 36th Street as their first choice for a new Weston high school location.

This site is on what will be called Southwest 196th Avenue near communities in Weston such as Weston Hills Country Club, Amber Ruby Cove and Emerald Estates.

The site in Sunrise, where the Cypress Bay High School annex for ninth-graders is located, is officially off the list. So the date by which the proposed new school would open (fall of 2009) has now been pushed back.

Meanwhile, some parents are thrilled that the board is really considering the 36th Street site, and maintaining status quo for now, because the thought of rezoning Broward County boundaries so some Weston students do not make the cut to stay in Weston at Cypress Bay at all, is disheartening.

Weston, FL has long been known for having A-rated schools, some of which landed in the state’s top five best schools in 2005, such as Eagle Point Elementary.

Cypress Bay has been an A-rated school since its opening in 2002 due to student performance on the FCAT (Florida State Academic Evaluation Exam).

Students at “The Bay” also pass with high scores on the Calculus AB/BC exam, the AP French test, and placed in the top 10 consistently on math team national competitions. Cypress Bay athletics are also top-notch. Their teams have won state championships and district competitions.

HISTORIC DISTRICTS IN NORTH MIAMI BEACH SPOTLIGHT OTHER AREA HOMES AND MAY REDUCE TAXES

2007-05-02T11:35:00.000-04:00

Miami Beach, which has the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture in the world, has spied yet another couple districts to crown with the designation by the National Register of Historic Places as “worth preserving.”

The city nominated North Shore Architectural District (bounded by 73 St to the south, 87th St to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the East), and Normandy Isles Architectural District (bounded by Biscayne bay and 71 St to the south, Normandy Shores Golf Course to the north, Indian Creek Waterway to the east and Rue Notre Dame to the west) to bring recognition to the unique architectural aspects of both these areas. Characterized by MiMo, a unique and sultry style indigenous to North Miami Beach, it is now coming into its own.

MiMo features style curved surfaces, bright colors, and circular holes – a combination of styles, according to architects, that drew upon the glamour of Miami beach during the 50s and 60s. Example can be seen in the Fontainebleau Hotel, the Eden Roc Hotel and the Sheraton Bal Harbour all designed by the architect Morris Lapidus who some say was designing not just buildings but places to live out fantasies. His hotel lobbies were like Ziegfeld movie sets, with massive chandeliers and dramatic staircases.

As part of the National Register of Historic Places, this area's honors would allow the homeowners in communities in North Miami Beach in the proposed districts to take advantage of tax and other financial benefits .

Joyce Meyers, principal planner for the City of Miami Beach, said the city commission votes on whether to support the proposal on May 16 and in July, the state will review their recommendations and send it to the national level.

The areas also contain precious examples of mid-revival, classic revival, vernacular, and minimal traditional styles, said Meyers.

PRESEASON FORECAST: Steel for one out of 14

2007-05-01T14:39:00.000-04:00

Hooray, Hooray! It’s the first of May! Time to kick-off the 2007 Hurricane Season with pre-season forecasts.

No, not the ‘Canes. The real hurricanes – you know - tropical storms, high winds, storm surges, flooding, etc.

North Carolina State University researchers' April report said 2007 would be an “active” season for the Atlantic basin. Out of a possible 14 tropical storms, one might develop into a Category 3 hurricane that hits the southeast.

This year, before you spend money (tax-free) on duct tape, plywood or metal sheets, during Hurricane Preparedness Week May 20-26, consider getting shutters. Condo associations and HOAs for single-family home communities all have to abide by Florida Statutes/building codes requiring them to allow you to shutter-up.

In fact, a state proposal to require many Florida coastal homeowners to buy storm shutters is up for review by Tallahassee lawmakers right now, amidst reports that such mandatory purchases will increase property values and decrease homeowners insurance rates.

Experts say the best types of shutters for you depend on what your needs and budget dictate, but proper installation is even more important, so get and check references of the workmen/company . Accordion-type shutters, or those with an automatic closing mechanism, are best for the elderly and disabled. Aluminum panels are easy to install, but are less effective than steel panel shutters. But for God’s sake, whichever you decide, DO NOT USE TAPE. It’s flat-out ineffective.

See here for more Shutter FAQs .

Weston High’s Lows

2007-05-01T13:04:00.000-04:00

This morning, officials at the Broward County School Board met off-site to decide where to put a brand new high school that would relieve overcrowding at Weston’s only present high school, Cypress Bay.

Currently, Cypress Bay High School has 5300 students, housed at two separate locations, which serve the city. About 1400 ninth graders attend an annex located on New River Circle, in Sunrise.

According to Natalie McNeal staff reporter for the Miami Herald, (Side by Side School), the proposed areas up for discussion are not both in Weston proper. One is on Manatee Isles Drive near what will be Southwest 196th Avenue, or on New River Circle near I-75 in Sunrise.

Obstacles that stand in the way for these proposed sites are a missing access road in an area slated for a project by the South Florida Water Management District at Manatee Isles Drive, and the size and shape of the site on New River Circle.
Some folks believe the unique educational experience offered at “The Bay” might be compromised after relieving its overcrowding. After all, its one of the only high schools that has a PR and Media Relations department, and because offering students such distinctive and intriguing electives as law, television production, journalism, and business management requires MONEY, perhaps some programs may suffer if they have to share.

Things got hot at an emergency city commission meeting held by Weston officials yesterday, when Mayor Eric Hersh’s idea to build the NEW ONE RIGHT NEXT TO THE OLD ONE, with a parking garage to separate the two, got shot down.

I’m sure residents of Weston communities like Tequesta Lake Estates, Bernuda Springs, Isles at Weston and Tequesta Point, and the Sunrise communities of Westwind Cove, Riverend, and New River Estates would be happy to welcome a big shiny new high school in their nick of the woods.

Baseball Going to the Dogs May 4

2007-04-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

Anyone who thinks that Florida Marlins baseball is going to the dogs, is right.

Friday May 4 will see Dolphin Stadium covered with furry fans wagging tails instead of tongues, as the Marlins host the fifth annual Bark at the Park.

Four-legged friends and their owners are invited to watch the hometeam play the San Diego Padres at 7 p.m. to benefit the Humane Society of Greater Miami/Adopt-A-Pet and the Humane Society of Broward County.

Onsite, a professional pet-photographer will snap owners and their “best friend,” while a special pregame show by K-Nines in Flight, a frisbee dog squad, will highlight what makes them world-famous.

Owners will receive Marlins poop scoops and bags, to be used at a designated astro-turfed doggy bathroom. Doggy pools will be available and Marlins doggy water bowls will be distributed to keep Rover cool and content during the game.

There’s a very specific set of pet-lovers in South Florida, according to the Humane Society of Broward County, that go virtually everywhere with their pooches, so this event is just one more great way to stay connected. Lists of pet-friendly parks , beaches and restaurants can even be found on their website here.

While you’re at Dolphin Stadum, you might check out some pet-friendly condos close to it in Aventura, such as Mystic Pointe. These luxury condos are a five-minute ride from Hallandale Beach, Aventura Mall and top-rated schools, as well.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for dogs and kids under 12. Don’t forget Rover's rabies tag - or he'll be tagged "out."

GLOBAL REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT: Will we see Weston-style homes in the Bahamas?

2007-04-30T13:58:00.000-04:00

The May issue of Miami Monthly did a series of articles on the hot topic of global real estate development, 2007-style, and its frontrunners. Leaders in the industry are located here, in South Florida.

Coastal Construction Group, led Tom Murphy Jr., a Miami-based firm which builds one-of-a-kind luxury homes throughout South Florida for high-profile superstars, like Dan Marino’s home in Weston, condos like Aqua Island, schools in Miami-Dade County, etc.

Now, Coastal, which set the bar for the community in which Marino’s house was built, Windmill Ranch Estates, is redeveloping an existing resort in the Bahamas called Valentine’s Resort and Marina in Harbor Island and upgrading the property with a new restaurant, marina, facilities and nearly 50 gated homes and condo-hotel units, a la Weston.

The magazine also cites one big reason why developers are heading a few miles offshore: retail mortgage lending is easier than ever. Banks lend more, so investors feel safer, and at the same time, this bridges the gap between the types of investors (first-time individuals or bigtime development companies) who can throw their hat in the ring. Other reasons include the safety of gated resorts and U.S.-born creature comforts now available on foreign soil.

But even more interesting is that what the rest of the U.S. finds scary about Miami – its international community - works for Miami real estate. Realtors from Miami have international clout, after wheeling and dealing international clients for years, and thus, have shaped global marketing trends, forged international development connections and implemented global business standards.

And, caught in the middle as a gateway for Latin American business, it has a steady international clientele. More than 22,000 residential units are under construction in the City of Miami, alone, according to Miami monthly, and more than 60,000 approved for next year.

OPEN HOUSE ETIQUETTE: Are We Getting Sloppy?

2007-04-27T11:50:00.000-04:00

All too often stories abound of Sunday Open House-fiascos that could peel paint! Sellers who reveal personal information, random strangers wandering in just to (mis)use the bathrooms, etc. There is a standard of etiquette surrounding the Open House, and, like the reason behind all good manners, it is there to ensure a positive, safe experience for all.

Realtors: Be attentive.

I once recall during my “just looking” stage where I was completely ignored by three agents at an Open House. I call this the “Goldilocks Open House.” One Sunday while driving through Coconut Grove, I spied a Key-West style, white clapboard, A-frame cottage with sign. Door unlocked, I let myself in and called out to alert agents they had a potential buyer. Despite three stacks of business cards on the entryway table, no one answered. I immediately felt for the seller, whose house and belongings they had left in poor hands. Still, I toured on my own, and came upon the realtors, drinking wine and eating the crudités bought for potential buyers. There they were, gnoshing and dishing, completely oblivious to my presence. I bought a distinctive $1.4 million property from Jo-Ann Forster, instead.

Sellers: Keep a low profile.

Most real estate agents would agree that sellers should be invisible during an Open House. But a house tied to a warm, interesting owner is a real “stand out” – especially if the homeowner loves their house and is prepared to answer brief questions such as the age of the roof and water heater. After the initial greeting, it’s best to scram and let the experts handle it. Post-it notes on specific features of your house can remind agents to promote your hard work updating or renovating. A guest sign-in book is an elegant touch, and a practical way for agents to follow up. Pets, valuables and medications should be locked away, as well as your “treasured family photos.” These mementos could kill a sale with people who don’t share the same values or if the neighborhood has changed substantially. Rule of Thumb: anything too personal that could potentially turn off a buyer is better tucked away until the traffic is gone.

Buyers: Don’t take the term “Open House” literally.

There’s always that one house you’ve always wanted to “peek in.” Go on and have a peek, but please keep to the areas clearly marked for Open House. Sellers are allowed privacy in at least one bedroom, closet, (drawer). House hunting is hard work, but stopping-up the toilet is not the best way to test the plumbing! Remember that this is someone’s home. Don’t be a straggler or an early bird. Show ID if asked, without acting offended. Don’t bring your toy teacup Chihuahua. Most importantly, let it be in your price range. Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous is more properly viewed on TV.

And because I enjoyed a buttoned-up, professional experience house hunting my present residence with Jo-Ann Forster, I recommend her Sunday Open House listings for this weekend. Happy hunting.

This Weekend: Walk Ocean Drive and Beyond

2007-04-26T16:26:00.000-04:00

This weekend, consider using your feet to tone your body and preserve Miami history.

This year marks the 30^th anniversary of the “Ocean Drive & Beyond Walking Tour,” a tour that invites visitors and residents of Miami to discover the world’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture.

Hosted by the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL), the 90-minute tour takes you to the sites of meticulously-preserved Art Deco buildings from the 1920's and 30's. Guides explain rudimentary Art Deco features, such as geometrical ornamentation, fluted columns, chevrons, and stylized sunbursts.

The design style, which began in France, was purely decorative and considered ultra-modern, yet functional. Art Deco architecture declined during the war years when many considered it gaudy.

By touring on foot you’ll find fascinating places they don't think "regular tourists" would ever see in detail, such as the interiors of the Miami Beach Post Office on Washington and 13^th Street, and The Tides hotel. You’ll also visit Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modern (MiMo) styles of the Miami Beach Architectural Historic District.

According to the MDPL, Miami Beach has the largest collection of Art Deco architecture remaining in the world, because although New York City has more buildings, they are spread throughout the city.

If the experience moves you enough to want to live Art Deco, the Drexel Condo at 1218 Drexel, built in 1925 and masterfully updated, has unique condos that blend historic features with modern comforts.

You’ve seen the sights now watch the natives. After the tour, rest and recharge with a Pimms cocktail and lobster club at Balans Miami. This outdoor bistro in Art Deco-themed décor, is located on the corner of Lincoln Road and Michigan making it a hotspot to people-watch after a long day of sightseeing.

Inspecting your new South Florida condo before making an offer

2006-12-15T12:05:00.000-05:00

There are many things to consider when buying a South Florida home but even more when deciding on a condo.

South Florida condos offer numerous amenities and there are many to choose from.

Here are important things to look out for before making an offer:

Does the condo face many hours of sun that will interfere with your energy efficiency and skyrocket your FPL bill?

Listen for noises. One way to check noise levels is visiting the condo at different times of the day both weekdays and weekends.

Check out your privacy levels; do you have large windows or a balcony that faces the street. Can you see into the unit from outside?

Is the parking lot well lit? Are there plenty of parking spaces? This has become a major issue at many complexes, it may not seem important now, but it certainly will when you’re home from work after a long day.

Another important thing to look for in hurricane prone Florida is a backup generator to power up your building in the case of a power outage.

Tamarac Wants to Save the World

2006-12-15T10:40:00.000-05:00

Tamarac, the western Broward city which began as a retirement community and was named for a car wash, is taking a global view of the world, looking beyond their cozy piece of South Florida real estate to help solve problems that concern people all over the globe.

Tamarac officials are looking at the problems of the world and seeing what they can do to help, taking that whole “think globally, act locally” credo to a whole new level.

Upon reports of the obesity crisis in America, Tamarac’s city commission urged restaurants to cut trans fat from their offerings. The city commission even stopped serving donuts at meetings.

They’re also doing what they can to tackle conservation, urging restaurants to serve water only when diners ask. That not only means less water left on tables untouched after meals, but also less water wasted to wash those glasses. The commission is looking into other ways to recycle water, including irrigation for city medians, and using recycled water.

Commissioner Patte Atkins-Grad would also like Tamarac to take on global warming and help save the penguins. There’s no plan in place yet, but unlike most American cities, Tamarac is working on it.

Tamarac was founded in the early 1960s by midwestern businessman Ken Behring, who envisioned a model retirement community. He named the city after his successful carwash franchise, Car-a-Mat. Car-a-Mat backwards is Tamarac.

While homes in Tamarac were originally designed for retirees, much of Tamarac’s population now includes families. And while the median age of a Tamarac resident is 52, younger residents are becoming more prominent; the city’s median age gets younger with each census.

Teachers May Get Help buying Homes in Palm Beach County

2006-12-14T17:20:00.000-05:00

Teachers who work in schools with a large number of low-income students may soon get help in buying homes in Palm Beach County neighborhoods, close to the school where they work.

The School Board will vote today on a public-private partnership that will connect the district with MerryPlace LLC as well as the West Palm Beach Housing Authority. If MerryPlace is approved, teachers at low-income schools may be eligible to receive a $7,500 down payment assistance to buy a home in new communities near Pleasant City Elementary, U.B. Kinsey/Palmview Elementary, Roosevelt Elementary, Northboro Elementary and Roosevelt Middle School.

Land preparation is already underway on the Pleasant City development, which is slated to include 16 single-family homes, 52 condos and 46 townhomes. Prices will be determined at a later date, but will take into account the median income of Palm Beach County, which is currently $64,000 for a family of four. The communities are scheduled to open in March, 2008, and pre-construction sales could begin within a few months.

The MerryPlace communities should be a fresh take on West Palm Beach real estate. Street names include Comfort Place, Beautiful Avenue, Contentment Avenue and Cheerful Street.

Fort Lauderdale Real Estate- How its Past Helps Shape its Future

2006-12-14T10:34:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

The archaeological excavation of the second Stanahan Store has turned into an extremely popular exhibit that will run through February 11, 2007

The exhibit “Digging up the past” will showcase an array of artifacts uncovered during the site’s 1996-97 dig. The Stranahan Store is a Fort Lauderdale real estate treasure and a contributing factor to the knowledge our historians have obtained about South Florida’s past.

Frank Stranahan arrived in 1892 to take charge of the overnight camp and ferry crossing established at the New River by the Dade County government. He soon turned it into a succesfull trading post with the local Seminoles and a few years later, the Stranahan Trading Post was a South Florida landmark.

The second Stranahan Trading Post was built in the year 1906 by Ed King. In 1912, it was destroyed by a fire and the Oliver Building soon replaced it.

The center of action of that newly born community became the new city of Fort Lauderdale’s umbilical cord, feeding it with its rich history and molding it into a city that proudly preserves its architecture but has also taken a challenging leap into the new millennium with many state-of-the-art commercial and residential buildings.

Briny Breezes Proposal May Change the Face of Palm Beach County Real Estate

2006-12-13T11:02:00.000-05:00

A piece of South Florida real estate that was one of the last glimpses into the coastal lifestyle of a bygone era may soon be leveled to make way for high-end retail and commercial space, townhomes and condos in Boynton Beach.

Briny Breezes, the 43-acre oceanfront mobile home park in Boynton Beach, has a deal on the table from Boca Raton developer Ocean Land that will make some of the trailer residents millionaires. Ocean Land has proposed paying $510 million for the land and the trailers. If the residents accept the deal, the mostly retired homeowners who live in Briny Breezes would receive $750,000 to $1 million.

Briny Breezes is a municipality located between the intracoastal and the ocean. The homeowners are shareholders in the corporation that owns Briny Breezes. Homeowners shares are based on the size and location of their property. Residents have until January 10 to decide whether or not to accept Ocean Land’s offer. A consensus of 67 percent is needed to sell.

While many residents are thrilled with the offer, others are skeptical. Consider this: Briny Breezes predominantly consists of retired full-time and seasonal residents who probably bought their trailer in the first place because it was an affordable way to live on the beach in Florida, enjoy the sunrise over the ocean from their own homes, and to live in paradise without paying a high price. The windfall might sound great, but let’s face it: $750,000 just doesn’t go as far as it used to, especially if they want to stay in the area and maintain the quality of life and the perks they’ve enjoyed living in Briny Breezes.

In use as a trailer park since the 1930s, the Briny Breezes land was bought by residents in 1958. Many of the current residents are second and third generation, or visited the park as children. Besides being one of the most iconoclastic communities that make up the South Florida real estate scene, the trailer park was the location for the 2005 movie “In Her Shoes”, which starred Cameron Diaz and Toni Collette.

The South Florida Real Estate Christmas Spirit

2006-12-13T10:16:00.000-05:00

For many, it’s the “most wonderful time of the year.” South Florida homes and condos lovingly decorated with festive lights and Christmas themes, some homeowners go as far as creating a winter wonderland complete with completely lit gardens and backyard such as South Florida Billionaire Jim Moran’s oceanfront Hillsboro Beach home.

Many of his neighbors along the exclusive stretch join him in the spectacular décor of their homes making it a delightful drive that many (like me) look forward to throughout the year.

Other communities worth touring this holiday season include Pembroke Lakes in Pembroke Pines; Wilton Manors in Fort Lauderdale; and Boca Cove homes in Highland Beach.

Getting Ready to Move into your New South Florida Home

2006-12-12T09:52:00.000-05:00

If your one of the many soon to be Florida residents with an empty nest, you’re probably thinking of how to downsize and simplify your life before moving into your new South Florida home. Though moving into a smaller space will require perhaps a change in lifestyle, it doesn’t have to be that difficult.

Some steps to consider are the following:

Measure the dimensions of your new living space and measure your current furniture to see if and what will fit.

Determine what will be coming along. This is a great opportunity to de-clutter and simplify your life.

Toss unused things and perhaps plan a garage sale to get rid of extra stuff that you may not have room for.

Miami-Dade Tackles Workforce Housing Issue

2006-12-12T09:25:00.000-05:00

Hot on the heels of the news that a new company had been formed to build work-force housing in Miami and Little Havana, a proposed law requiring developers to provide lower cost housing has come under fire by those owning homes in Miami-Dade County and community councils who fear that if the law passes, it will have a negative effect on property values.

The proposed law would require developers of most new projects built in Miami-Dade’s unincorporated areas to earmark a certain percentage of units below market price so lower income buyers could afford them.

The proposal would also include a workforce board, made up of three community council members, as well as developers, banking professionals and affordable housing advocates appointed by the county commission.

Miami-Dade community council members are concerned that the workforce board would take zoning issues out of local hands, while homeowners fear that unchecked development that might result from the law would impact negatively on their Miami-Dade real estate.

The Workforce Housing Ordinance hearing takes place this morning at the Stephen P. Clark Center in downtown Miami.

Annual Fort Lauderdale Attraction Presents “Broadway on the Waterway”

2006-12-11T12:13:00.000-05:00

When it comes to the South Florida winters, no one’s sitting by the fireplace and rattling their teeth with a blanket over their shoulders. Quite the contrary, they’re one of the best times to relax outside and enjoy the weather. And so it makes sense that the fresh climate will encourage residents to participate in a number of outdoor activities.

One Fort Lauderdale attraction to mark on your calendar is the 35th Annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade. Dubbed as “Broadway on the Waterway,” the event will feature at least 100 vessels that will sail along the Intracoastal Waterway from Port Everglades to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. The ships take off on Dec. 16th at 6:30 p.m.

The parade will have a Broadway theme with many decorations that reference such musical classics as “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Cats” and “Grease.” Crew members will get a mix of live music and visual arts. Frank Valli, the singer for the Four Seasons, will be the parade’s grand marshal.

Residents with their own vessels can participate in the parade with a fee of $35. Tickets for adults is $18 and for children $13. The Port Everglades is close to many homes in Fort Lauderdale so the drive to the parade shouldn’t be a problem for residents.

Work-force Housing is Hot New South Florida Real Estate Niche

2006-12-11T10:30:00.000-05:00

Developers are responding to the lull in the sale of luxury housing by specializing in a segment long ignored: housing designed for South Florida’s workforce.

A firm based in Georgia has teamed with a Coral Gables developer to form Urbanice LLC, a company which will build work-force housing in Little Havana. The name of the new company comes from the Spanish word for urbanize.

Four projects are already in the works, and will be the new players on the South Florida real estate scene. The complexes, El Colonial, Puerto Nuevo, Aqua Briza and Los Jardines, will add nearly 300 units to the market for real estate in Miami and Little Havana and. The buildings will have varied amenities, including rooftop entertainment deck, spa, and meditation garden.

Preconstruction prices for the projects range from the high $100,000’s to the low $300,000s. Government employees and hospital employees will be eligible for discounts on units.

Florida Homeowners Fighting New Insurance Increases

2006-12-11T09:23:00.000-05:00

It’s no secret that South Florida homes have become increasingly expensive to insurance since 2005’s busy hurricane season.

Homeowners have decided to act and are circulating a petition that has made rounds throughout homes from the Florida Keys to the Panhandle.

Among other things the petition seeks lower rates, tougher building codes statewide, and a strong lobbying effort for a national catastrophe fund, according the Miami Herald.

Citizens; the largest insurer in the State holds 1.3 million policies, half of those are in the South Florida area. With the new state law that requires insurance companies to increase its reserves so it has enough money available to cover claims from a large storm, means increases starting as early as March.

The group Insurance Reform Now organized by mortgage banker Sherri Hudson is drafting a list of possible solutions such as eliminating the provision in that new state law that calls for large premium increases in Citizens’ rates; creating preventive measures that would not allow for long-term policy holders to have their policies cancelled; the creation of a national or regional catastrophe fund, and the creation of formal regulations that call for gradual rate increases.

Buyers Can Decorate Their Own Miami Beach Condos

2006-12-08T11:13:00.000-05:00

You just can’t lose when choosing to buy a condo in Miami Beach. The buildings offer gorgeous views of the east coast, the beaches are within walking distance, popular shops and restaurants abound on nearly every corner and the prices are affordable at such impressive locations.

And now some developers have allowed buyers to get creative. Oview at Collins is a new community in the works that encourages buyers to partake in the design of the interiors in their units. Each of the residents in the 8-story building can have entirely unique apartments; they may even forget that they’re living in the same community. Buyers can have their units to be as small as 709 square feet to up to 3,500 square feet. Many owners can even choose to have their own private rooftops.

The new real estate in Miami Beach is expected to be completed sometime in 2008. Each of the 20 condominiums will be stories with floor to ceiling windows, Italian cabinetry and views of the beaches and the Intracoastal Waterway. The amenities include a swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and a sky deck on the top of the roof.

Oview at Collins will be situated near other soon-to-be communities such as the Ritz-Carlton and Ciprianin at the Saxony. Pre-construction prices start at $535,000.

Riviera Beach Replaces Housing Project with Townhome Community

2006-12-08T10:31:00.000-05:00

Out with the old and in with the new—a nearly 30-year-old housing development is being demolished, clearing the way for the construction of nearly 200 new townhomes and condos in Riviera Beach.

Ivey Green has stood near Congress Avenue and Blue Heron Boulevard for decades. The complex, which once offered hope and a home to families with lower incomes had suffered from neglect, and has been plagued by crime. Ivey Green was also damaged by Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne.

A community of Riviera Beach homes will rise in its place. The townhomes will be geared toward renters and senior citizens, as well as lower income home buyers.

Officials say it will take about six months for Ivey Green to be completely demolished. Officials also plan to hold a contest for local elementary and middle school children to rename this new community of South Florida homes.

Florida Among States With Highest Flu Rates

2006-12-08T10:26:00.000-05:00

If you thought sunny Florida didn’t have its share of winter blues you were wrong. Florida is currently one of the states with the highest flu rates in the nation.

To make sure your family and South Florida home stay flu-free this season, there are a few steps you can take.

Children are especially vulnerable and one of the best options to protect them from the virus and the serious complications that it may bring is a flu shot. Shots are recommended mostly for children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years.

The Sun Sentinel has reported that both Broward and Palm Beach counties still have the vaccine available. Many Doctors offices carry the vaccine as well.

The vaccine will be available in special clinics set up at different Publix locations in Broward County, and scheduling is pending at local malls as well according to Tory Omran the account manager at Maxim Healthcare, Fort Lauderdale. The company provides flu shots at retail locations.

Keeping your home as germ free as possible can be achieved by consistently wiping down door knobs, washing your hands, and changing bedding and towels weekly.

Tequesta Real Estate Features New Village Hall

2006-12-07T17:01:00.000-05:00

Residents in Tequesta won’t have to attend council meetings at the Tequesta Recreation Center anymore. Officials will open a new village hall this Saturday, Dec. 9th. Residents are already paying their utility bills and conduct other transactions at the new building.

The 9,500-square-feet building cost $2.5 million to construct. The village hall is a state-of-the-art unit that features flat screens for presentations and seating for 100 people. But there’s still work to be done. Developers are fabricating a dais made out of cherry wood and a black granite counter for council meetings. They are expected to finish by Dec. 14.

The new village hall is conveniently located near many homes in Tequesta.

The future of South Florida Real Estate to Undergo Strict Planning

2006-12-07T15:22:00.000-05:00

The South Florida real estate boom has left many asking what’s left to build upon. Furthermore, the projected doubling of Southeast Florida’s population by 2060 would send new developments as far as the Everglades Agricultural Area in western Palm Beach County. This is expected to cause small towns along Lake Okeechobee such as Pahokee and Belle Glade to experience an explosive and problematic population boom.

Growth planning advocates emphasize that building apartments, condominiums and other large residential buildings in South Florida should be built in close proximity to public transit, specially in counties such as Dade and Broward where overcrowding may cause major traffic issues among other problems.

In some cities development is expected to take over agricultural land such as the case of western Palm Beach County. The incredible expansion would create a non-stopping urban strip stretching from West Palm Beach to Fort Myers.

Beyond Art Basel

2006-12-07T13:44:00.000-05:00

There’s plenty of hype surrounding Miami Beach’s Art Basel, considered by many to be one of the nation’s best art events. Yet beyond Art Basel proper are many independent exhibits scattered throughout Miami real estate.

Some satellite fairs include Aqua Art Miami at the Aqua Hotel along Collins Avenue. This exhibit will feature emerging artists and many west coast galleries.

Bridge Miami will be held at the Catalina Hotel and Beach Club.

Design Miami at the Moore Building will house historic and contemporary works.
Its 2006 Designer of the year award has gone to artist Marc Newson.

Use Holiday Decorating to Showcase Your South Florida Home

2006-12-07T11:08:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

If you’ve got a house for sale in South Florida, it’s more important than ever to find a way to make your home stand out from others on the market. The holiday season provides a perfect time of year to spruce up your home and make it more attractive to home buyers.

Look at the outside of your home. Think curb appeal. Try outlining your house in white lights. Add a welcoming wreath or attractive door decoration. Highlight the trees or hedges in your yard with lights and tasteful decorations.

Now that you’ve made the outside look inviting, work on the inside. Red velvet bows or red plaid ribbon are inexpensive and instantly make a house feel special. Drape door frames with green holly garland and red bows. Have a lot of white throughout your home? Nothing highlights white more than gold, which will add an elegant vibe to your South Florida home.

Use your Christmas tree to your advantage. Avoid precious, heirloom ornaments—you don’t want accidents as people view your home. Try something different. A tree decked out in white lights and red bows is stunning.

And don’t forget about the scents of holidays. The scents of the season are pine and cinnamon, so use candles or air fresheners to make sure those scents are throughout the house.

By following these simple tips, you can make your South Florida home festive and memorable to those whose holiday wish list includes a new home.

Fort Lauderdale Real Estate to Feature Commercial Buildings near I-95

2006-12-06T10:41:00.000-05:00

Developers are tearing down a series of old stores to make way for a new commercial center called Riverbend Corporate Park near Broward Boulevard and I-95.

Charlie Ladd and George Rahael, the men in charge of the project, are planning to include six office buildings that will extend up to 325,000 square feet. They are also thinking about setting up a hotel, shops and homes. Construction is expected to take over 10 years to complete at a cost of nearly $1 billion. Riverbend is also predicated to produce almost 8,000 jobs and $20 million in taxes.

The developers are now looking for businesses in such cities as Boca Raton and Cypress Creek to occupy the new office spaces. This real estate in Fort Lauderdale will be near I-95, I-595, a Tri-Rail station and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Ladd and Rahael hope that its proximity to the highways and the Tri-Rail will attract many residents who wish to easily commute from their homes in South Florida.

If the Horse Shows Leaves, Will Wellington’s Charm Go With It?

2006-12-06T10:25:00.000-05:00

Wellington’s reputation as an equestrian town could ride off into the sunset if the company that operates a prestigious horse show and equestrian fest takes its business elsewhere.

Stadium Jumping Inc., which produces the National Horse Show and the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington each year, has threatened to leave the area. The company is being sued by developer Mark Bellissimo, who says that even though Stadium Jumping Inc. has a lease that expires in 2008, the company signed an agreement in 2005 that would keep the horse shows in Wellington for another 30 years.

Developers, officials and residents fear that if Stadium Jumping Inc. leaves, property values on Wellington homes, some of the most prime South Florida real estate, will plunge. Wellington has cultivated an atmosphere of equestrian tranquility, a haven for horse lovers amid the urban hustle and bustle and suburban sprawl of the rest of South Florida.

Bellissimo is planning to build the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, a 400-plus acre complex which would include estate homes, retail shops and more than 100 hotel rooms. The lawsuit alleges Stadium Jumping Inc.’s decision to move out of Wellington has “seriously jeopardized” Bellisimo’s project.

Sunrise City Hall Opens; Hurricane Damage Repaired

2006-12-05T10:07:00.000-05:00

The newly renovated Sunrise City Hall has reopened, after closing last year due to extensive damage from Hurricane Wilma. City Hall is located on a piece of South Florida real estate amid communities of homes for sale in Sunrise.

While the building was undergoing renovations, offices for city services, such as building permits, were spread all over town. Now, many different departments, including the Planning and Development Department, City Commission offices and chambers, the city clerk and an office for paying utility bills, will be available to residents.

Wellington School Receives Pre-Vet Magnet Program

2006-12-04T11:21:00.000-05:00

Students in Wellington High School can now take classes in a pre-veterinary magnet program, the only one in the district.

The pre-vet program offers eight honor classes such as biology, zoology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology.

For years now, the “A” rated school in Wellington has been ranked as one of the top 25 high schools in the nation. But students there haven’t been able to take magnet and choice programs. It was one of the two schools in the county that lacked advanced programs.

The school will also begin renovations in the science rooms and the learning center to commentate the advanced classes with new state-of-the-art equipment. The cost of renovations adds up to $3.2 million.

Wellington High School is an ideal choose for the pre-vet medical program. Not only is known to have students and teachers interested in science, the real estate in Wellington is the heart of South Florida’s equestrian industry.

Give Us a Drugstore and We’ll Give You a Park

2006-12-04T10:20:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Retail giant Walgreens has proposed a deal to Logger’s Run, a subdivision of homes in Boca Raton: If Logger’s Run allows Walgreens to build a new pharmacy on an undeveloped plot of South Florida real estate, Walgreens will build an 8 acre park for the residents of the area.

Walgreens would lease the property for 75 years. The rent would start at $250,000 a year and build to $350,000 a year. The rent money would help Logger’s Run maintain other parks in the area.

The decision as to whether the deal will go through is in the hands of the residents of the community. Two-thirds of the residents must support the measure to lease their free space to Walgreens.

The Logger’s Run subdivision encompasses more than a dozen different communities of Palm Beach County homes in Boca Raton, including Timberwalk, Country Landings, Winding Lakes, and Island Lakes. Residences in these communities are typically single-family homes with attached garages and substantial square footage. Many have swimming pools and a host of community amenities.

If the deal goes through, Walgreens will build their store at the corner of 441 and Palmetto Park Road. The drugstore would be hidden from the community by trees and landscaping. Another pharmacy giant, CVS, competed with Walgreens to build on the land, but Walgreens offered more money and offered to help build the new park.

Jupiter Real Estate to include 19-acre Nature Trail Next Year

2006-12-02T11:12:00.000-05:00

Officials in Jupiter are planning to develop a nature trail next year in the heart of the town.

The land will stretch 19 acres and feature a meandering boardwalk for visitors that will lead them through an area filled with cypress trees, pine flatwoods, palmettos, an oak in a hammock and a slough of freshwater that flows into Jones Creek. Developers have already removed many exotic plants from the site.

But this preservation won’t just be for visitors looking for a nice hike through a nature path. The town also hopes to attract students at the Environmental Academy for educational tours. The Jupiter school is located within walking distance from the preservation.

The town is spending $400,000 for the development of the nature trail. After its completion, the real estate in Jupiter will be managed by the Park and Recreation Department.

Plantation Mourns the Loss of its Longest Serving Mayor

2006-12-01T15:25:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Frank Veltri, the longest serving mayor of Plantation who led the city throughout 24 years of expansion and progress, died late Thursday at the age of 94.

The Tennessee native served as mayor of Plantation from 1975 until March of 1999 when he retired after more that two decades of service.

Plantation has a strong-mayor form of government. Unlike a commissioner-manager government where a city manager is hired by the commission, in this form of government the elected mayor is responsible for the day-to-day administration in City Hall. Plantation is one of the few cities in Florida to implement this type of government.

Veltri had lived in Plantation since 1955. Veltri’s late wife “Gin” was also a pillar of the community. She was co-founder of the city’s historic museum, the Plantation library, and the Women’s Club, among other endeavors.

During Veltri’s government, the once small agricultural town flourished into a full service community with many new commercial and cultural venues such as the Broward Mall, the Plantation Historical Museum, and the Fountains Shopping Mall.

Today the city continues to thrive. Plantation real estate offers condos, town homes, and single family homes surrounded by tropical landscaping, golf courses, as well as many malls, shops, and restaurants.

Mr. Veltri is survived by his three children; Diane Veltri Bendekovic, Stephen Veltri, and Deanne Ventri Noles; six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

The Ventri name still rings to this day within the city halls. His daughter Diane has served on the council since 2001.

Boynton Beach Real Estate to Feature Free Clinic by FAU and Quantum

2006-12-01T10:29:00.000-05:00

Florida Atlantic University and Quantum Foundation are preparing to open a free clinic next year at Forest Park Elementary School in Boynton Beach.

The FAU Community Wellness Center at Forest Park will cover 2,300 square feet and will offer immunizations, screening for diabetes and high blood pressure and treatment for common ailments such as colds and ear infections.

Open to the public, the clinic is Palm Beach County’s second single clinic operated by Quantum and the Boca Raton college. The first center is next to West Gate Elementary School in West Palm Beach. The Boynton center will be twice the size of the first one.

The building will cost $280,000 and is expected to begin construction as early as January 2007. The board of Quantum plans to open the clinic by September.

The city also plans to rebuild the Boynton Beach school next year, although the clinic will not interfere with the school’s construction’s plans.

Delray Beach Real Estate Embraces the Holiday Spirit

2006-12-01T10:12:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

As of last night, a new light shines upon Delray Beach homes and condos as the city cheerfully dove into the festive Holiday season with the 14th Annual tree lighting ceremony along Atlantic Avenue in the downtown area.

The event has become an annual tradition in which Delray Beach real estate owners renew their community bonds and celebrate the arrival of a new holiday season.

The 100 foot tree is considered one of the largest in the nation and features 15,500 twinkling lights and decorations.

The inside of the tree offers cheerful holiday scenes and an electric train exhibit.

The festivities also feature live entertainment as is the norm in the lively city of Delray Beach. Musical performances are followed by an awe inspiring light show, ice skating, carousel ride, and the most awaited event of the evening; Santa’s arrival. Without the honorable host, Delray’s magical tree lighting ceremony would hardly make any sense.

The renowned tree will continue to illuminate the city through January 1st.

Buying a South Florida Home May Be the Best Holiday Gift

2006-12-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Mortgage rates nationwide dropped this week to their lowest point since January, according to mortgage giant Freddie Mac, indicating that buying South Florida homes might just be the best holiday gift, giving the term “home for the holidays” new meaning.

This was the third straight week of declines. Rates on 30-year mortgages peaked in July but have been declining in the months since.

The current rate on a 30-year, fixed rate mortgage averages 6.14 percent. That’s very close to the lowest level this year, which stood at 6.12 percent during the week of January 26. Experts at Freddie Mac have reported the rate of mortgage applications in November to be “healthy.”

The low mortgage rates, combined with motivated sellers, means that this is a good time to purchase homes in South Florida.

Many buyers have already taken advantage of low mortgage rates. Sales of existing homes in Broward County showed a 5 percent increase in October over sales for October of 2005.

Land Purchase Results in Boca Raton School Expansion

2006-11-30T10:57:00.000-05:00

Students at Addison Mizner Elementary School can look forward to an expansion of their campus from a land purchase that was recently approved by the Palm Beach School Board.

The property, located next to the elementary on 301 Southwest 12 Avenue, was sold to the School District by the owners at a price of $366,000. Covering 9,027 square feet, this real estate in Boca Raton will not only offer more space for the school but also provide additional access to the main road.

The expansion will result in more classroom space for Boca Raton school, which enrolls students in Kindergarten through fifth grade. The “A” rated school has shown a high proficiency rate in FCAT scores in reading, math and writing skills.

Getting the Lay of the Land—Landscaping Counts When Looking at South Florida Homes

2006-11-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Home sellers have heard all about curb appeal, making a home look great on the outside by sprucing up the landscaping and appearance of the house.

But homebuyers should also look at landscaping when perusing homes for sale in South Florida.

Landscaping is one of the primary reasons homes sell, according to real estate appraisers. Lush landscaping and pretty plants can add 15 percent to the value of a home.

When looking at properties, pay special attention to trees. Healthy older trees can add value to a home. When looking at older trees around newly built homes, look for evidence of bulldozer damage or other damage caused by new construction.

Because of the weather, large, backyards of South Florida homes can act as an extra room, so it makes sense to look closely at several factors. Look at how the sun hits the yard. A yard with a southeastern exposure is most conducive to relaxing. Also pay attention to drainage patterns, pedestrian patterns, irrigation and paving. For optimum benefits, shade trees should be located 25 feet from the home.

Examine the land. Angles and contours can be visually interesting, but grades should take water off the property. If the grade of the land goes the wrong way, puddling can occur. Make sure that water runs in the opposite direction of the house and any other structures.

Remember, when looking at South Florida homes for sale, you’re not just buying the house, you’re buying the landscaping. Careful examination of the grounds of a house can not only add to your enjoyment of the home but also add to your overall investment.

Traffic Burden to be Eased off Miami Homeowner’s Shoulders

2006-11-30T10:22:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

For owners of homes and condos in Miami, the “Magic City” has much to offer, but traffic is also a time-consuming burden they face daily.

Traffic is also a major issue considered by new buyers when it comes time to shop for a new home. Miami traffic ranks in as sixth worst in the entire nation.

Thanks to a new survey conducted by the Metropolitan Center at Florida International University long and short term solutions are in the wake of being implemented.

The survey was given to 500 Miami business executives. As a result, three of the top short term solutions where determined. Proposals include better synchronized traffic signals, higher priority of traffic law enforcement on behalf of the Police, and road construction limited to late evening and non-rush hours.

Another plan is set to start in late 2007. After several delays the Metered Proposal for example, will install ramp meters at 22 locations along Interstate 95. The meters will help control and regulate traffic flow.

A certain level of commitment has also been asked of businesses. One proposal calls for companies to embrace flexible work hours and employee telecommuting.

Other long term plans include educating business owners about government rewards offered for providing incentives and subsidiaries to their employees who car pool or use public transportation.

Historic Jupiter School to be Restored

2006-11-29T10:59:00.000-05:00

The Palm Beach School Board voted to renovate Jupiter Elementary School that was built in 1927. The board will spend $6.4 million to include more classroom space and repair the building’s interiors.

The restoration is not only seen as a way to improve the students’ learning environment but also as a way to preserve Jupiter’s history. Many residents have made contributions to the Save Old Jupiter School task force. The town itself as donated $110,000 to the effort.

The school board agreed work with Hedrick Bros. Construction to begin the renovations and upgrades in the two-story building that covers 17,400 square feet. The Jupiter school will include 164 student stations such as classrooms and laboratories.

The building has also been used as a hurricane shelter in recent years and an assembly place for residents. It is an “A” rated public school located near many affordable homes in Jupiter.

Heating Pools Affordably in South Florida Homes

2006-11-29T10:47:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Now that temperatures are starting to drop, you might be thinking about heating your South Florida home’s pool so you can enjoy it throughout the winter months.

Don’t be discouraged if you think it’s too expensive.
There are many ways to heat your pool without breaking the bank.

Here are a couple of useful tips to help maximize the potential of your South Florida home this winter.

One of the best investments you can make is on a pool solar cover or blanket. This floating cover insulates the surface of the pool water conserving heat. In consequence your heater runs for a shorter period of time and drastically reduces your energy costs.

Solar heating panels are also a great way to heat you pool. Florida’s winter months tend to be the sunniest, and using the free energy from the sun will only cost you purchase and installment of the panels, not to mention that solar heating does not pollute the increasingly fragile ecosystem.

Broward County Homes Bucks Slump

2006-11-29T10:02:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Sales of existing homes in Broward County defied the current real estate slump by showing a 5 percent increase in October over sales for October of 2005.

The caveat of that figure is that in October 2005, Hurricane Wilma hit South Florida real estate especially hard.

Even so, the median price of Broward County condos has also risen, and has showed an 8 percent increase. Sales of Miami-Dade County homes have also risen, 6 percent over October 2006.

Some boons to buying a house right now: interest rates have stabilized and there is a large selection of homes to choose from. Sellers are pricing homes to sell, and buyers are making out with great prices.

Mobile Home Park To Be Turned Into Affordable Palm Beach County Homes

2006-11-28T10:15:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Palm Beach County and Lakeside mobile home park are working together on a plan to replace the park with a development of affordable town homes, condos and apartments.

Lakeside covers about 40 acres of canal-front property south of Okeechobee Boulevard and east of Congress Avenue in West Palm Beach. Lot rentals are less than $400 a month. One of the major hurdles in the plan is to find a way to not displace the park’s residents and to make sure that the new Palm Beach County homes built on the land will be affordable to those now in Lakeside.

Palm Beach County recently passed rules that require developers to make 16 percent of the homes they build affordable, priced between $164,000 and $304,000. Those developers who prefer to opt out must contribute to a land trust fund so the county can acquire property where affordable homes can be built.

While no plans are on the table regarding Lakeside yet, one option that has been discussed is to build more than 100 town homes, condos and apartments with price tags geared toward low and middle income buyers. Those now living in Lakeside would get dibs on the new homes. No plan has yet been decided about where Lakeside residents would live between being displaced from the park and the new development being finished.

If a plan is decided on, the new development will join others in the area, such as West Gate Estates, a neighborhood of single-family West Palm Beach homes for sale; CityPlace Garden, a complex of downtown West Palm Beach condos; and Cityside, a complex of town homes in West Palm Beach. Homes in the area are convenient to the excitement of CityPlace and Clematis Street and all the shopping and dining possibilities in downtown West Palm Beach.

South Florida Real Estate and its Holiday Shopping Options

2006-11-28T10:05:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Now that Thanksgiving is over, the busiest retail season of the year is beginning and South Florida real estate features an incredible amount of malls and shopping centers providing buyers with many options.

Considering that Holiday sales are expected to increase by 5 percent, the average shopper will probably encounter long lines, heavy traffic, and more than one headache.

One way to minimize the hassle is to pick gifts that can be purchased at a shopping plaza instead of a mall. Outdoor shopping centers provide many choices and are typically less congested. In addition to this, there is usually a supermarket located in each one so you can make it a one stop deal and shop for gifts and groceries.

For those of you who actually enjoy being part of the hectic crowds that flood South Florida malls; Expert Realty provides the necessary info about local malls, such as important phone numbers, address, and map views.

Plantation real estate in Broward County features three malls. Shopping in Plantation may be done at the Broward Mall, the Fashion Mall, and the Fountain Shoppes of Distinction, as well as in many outdoor community shopping centers.

Dade County real estate also has access to numerous shopping venues such as Westland, Dadeland, Aventura, and the Dolphin malls.

WWII Attraction in Jupiter to Move to Lighthouse Park

2006-11-27T10:46:00.000-05:00

Officials in the town of Jupiter have decided to re-locate a World War II barracks building from Burt Reynolds Park to Lighthouse Park in Dec. 7 with a special ceremony and dedication to Pearl Harbor Day.

Owners of the museum, the Loxahatchee River Historical Society, plan on moving the historic site to a two-story building and will rename it as Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum. This attraction in Jupiter will feature a new exhibit called “Florida in World War II,” a history of the barracks building that was developed by the Navy in 1941 and housed personnel.

The refurnishing of the building’s exteriors and interiors are being conducted by DooleyMack Constructors and was funded by the town at a cost of more than $1 million. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum will open to the public on Dec. 20.

Lighthouse Park is a recreational site with four tennis courts, two soccer fields and open areas. It covers 22 acres and is located near many homes in Jupiter.

Buy a Townhouse, Get Tuition for Your Kid—Builders Offer Incentives to Sell South Florida Real Estate

2006-11-27T10:28:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

School tuition, leased cars, home upgrades—builders are throwing in lots of extras in order to get buyers to pony up for South Florida real estate.

Those who buy a townhouse in Orchid Grove, a community of Pompano Beach homes, can get four years of their child or grandchild’s tuition by Coscan Homes, the community’s builder. The program ends in spring of 2007.

Those without children can choose from other incentives, such as 4 percent off the purchase price, 4 percent of upgrades for the home or 4 percent cash at closing.

Sellers have been offering incentives such as cruises, timeshares and big-ticket televisions for some time to help sell their homes. Analysts say that while buyers would rather just get a better price on South Florida homes, incentives don’t hurt. In the case of the tuition program offered by Coscan Homes, however, no one to date has taken advantage of the offer.

Lantana Real Estate Will Feature New Waterfront Community

2006-11-25T12:16:00.000-05:00

The town of Lantana plans to develop a new community with 15 villas that will reside on the Intracoastal Waterway. Construction will begin early next year and is expected to finish in 2008.

Lehman Development Group is in charge of the development of St. Johns Villas, a six floor complex that will be located near the Ritz Carlton Beach Resort. The private community will include living space ranging from 2,000 to 4,000, two penthouses, wide balconies, private garages, walk-in closets, marble and carpet floors, a marina that can dock boats up to 35 feet, access to a private beach and views of the Intracoastal. The building will feature a generator in case of a hurricane. Residents are also provided with a waterfront swimming pool and a spa.

These luxurious condos in Lantana are currently priced between $1 million and $3 million.

Plans in Palm Beach Shopping Plaza to Include Theater and Hotel

2006-11-24T11:03:00.000-05:00

Developers for the Royal Poinciana Plaza want to construct a hotel and theater on the western part of the shopping area.

The idea calls for a 74-room luxury hotel, a theater complex that will house more than 290 seats for dramatic performances and more commercial space. Situated in Mediterranean-style structures, the new developments will extend up to 3.5 acres and have views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

It’s just an idea for now, but Dawsco Realty Corp. and Brennan Group plan on sending an application to city officials. The president of Dawsco Realty said that the project will not only be appropriate for Royal Poinciana Plaza, it will easy up traffic blocking.

If the plan is approved, builders will begin construction for the new real estate in Palm Beach next year.

Buyers Can Look Forward to More Affordable Homes in Palm Beach County

2006-11-24T10:27:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Looking to bask in a Boca Raton home? Want to build a new life in a lake front home in Lake Worth? Craving a piece of Jupiter real estate? A new rule may be a boon to those considering buying homes in Palm Beach County.

According to the rule, 16.5 percent of homes built in most developments must be priced between $164,000 and $304,000. Officials actually had planned for the figure to be 20 percent, until developers balked that such a cut into profits could force them out of Palm Beach County, thus eliminating many construction jobs. The 16.5 percent figure is meant to be a compromise to keep builders in the county yet still benefit the consumer.

The goal of the new rule is to create more affordable homes for teachers, police officers, firefighters and young professionals. The housing boom of the past few years has meant that many people in this segment have been unable to purchase a home. The trend toward condo conversions have left the middle class with a housing shortage.

The median price for homes in Palm Beach County currently hovers around $400,000.

Developers can opt out if they pay $81,000 per home to a fund designed to help provide affordable housing. Palm Beach County is also considering other options to gain affordable housing, including imposing fees on luxury homes and having new businesses help pay for housing.

Plans to Convert Monastery Real Estate in Delray Beach into Homes Approved

2006-11-22T11:14:00.000-05:00

Officials in Delray Beach have agreed to convert nine acres of a monastery into a community of single-family homes in the future.

Nuns at Christ the King Monastery, located near Sherwood Park and Hamlet Country Club, wish to sell a portion of their land to developers in order to cut back on maintenance fees. The plan was approved by city commissioners this week, and the area will be rezoned to accommodate the new homes in Delray Beach. For now, it is unknown what type of houses developers will construct or what the prices will be for the properties.

Neighbors are now worried that zoning for the properties may cause traffic after proposals of an entrance into the community. They are also concerned that the zoning won’t match their neighborhoods. An agreement between board members and residents should be made sometime next month.

Lack of Undeveloped Land May Change the Face of Wellington Real Estate

2006-11-22T10:58:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

The Village of Wellington, land of horses and wide open spaces, is running out of land. And that fact will change the way Wellington looks, and the way Wellington real estate is developed.

A 15-acre plot of land at 441 and Pierson Road is one of the last undeveloped areas in the village. There is an equestrian preserve of more than 8,000 acres that is protected from dense development, as well as large western sections that are devoted to storm water and will never see development. But analysts predict that in as little as 18 months, the 10-year-old village will out of new land for development.

As it stands now, the landscape of Wellington homes is characterized by super-sized lots, horse stalls and entire equestrian communities, offering a countrified atmosphere not found in other parts of bustling South Florida real estate.

Generally, when a growing city runs out of space, they build tighter and they build upward. The realization of the land scarcity is causing Wellington officials to take a long, hard look at what they want Wellington to be—a rambling, rural municipality with houses and barns on oversized lots or an urban area with mixed use projects of storefronts and condos.

The lack of new land could also squeeze out some affordable rentals as owners resort to condo conversions and developers tear down buildings to make way for new homes in Wellington. Developers have already begun making offers to the larger horse farms, contingent upon village approval of more development.

Village officials plan to hire a consulting firm and conduct public hearings on future development and the future of real estate in Wellington.

After a Year of Debates; Scaled-Down Affordable Home Law Approved in Palm Beach County

2006-11-22T09:34:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Yesterday Palm Beach County commissioners approved a scaled-down plan that requires developers to limit new homes prices. The new plan establishes that the price tags for 16.5 percent of the homes in most new developments will stay within $164,000 and $304,000.

The goal in mind according to County officials is to create more homes for teachers, police officers, and other young professionals that have few options in the Palm Beach County real estate market.

According to the Sun Sentinel, County Commissioner Jess Santamaria said “the county’s workforce can’t afford to wait for supply and demand to bring down home prices.”

Sun Sentinel also reported that Commissioner Warren Newell, who helped propel the rule said, “It is not going to solve all the problems, but it’s a start.”

The Palm Beach Real Estate Name Game

2006-11-21T11:14:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

What two cities have links to mythology? What city was named for heir to an industrial fortune? There are some intriguing stories behind the names of Palm Beach County real estate.

While most people think that the towns of Jupiter and Juno Beach were named for the Roman god and goddess, that’s only half correct. Jupiter came first, and was named during the period when the British controlled Florida, between 1763 and 1783. The British examined a 1742 map listing the area as Rio Jove. Jove was the Roman name for the god Zeus, but because the Brits loved to anglicize words, their version was Jupiter. They renamed area in Florida Jupiter, and later, American’s named the town directly to the south Juno, because Juno was Jupiter’s consort.

Today, Jupiter real estate and Juno Beach real estate is characterized by its breathtaking, unspoiled beaches and its dedication to preserving Florida’s natural beauty.

Singer Island was named for Paris Singer, one of the 23 children of Isaac Singer, who made his fortune with Singer sewing machines. Paris Singer visited Palm Beach in 1920 and met architect Addison Mizner, who had been designing distinctive homes and hotels in Palm Beach. Singer was so taken with the area and with Mizner’s style that he offered Mizner a $6,000 a year retainer for life if he limited his work to Palm Beach. Singer and Mizner envisioned golf courses and hotels in the midst of the Florida land boom of the early 1920s. A combination of the 1928 hurricane and the 1929 stock market crash caused the boom to go bust, and Singer’s fortune was decimated. With his fortune so severely depleted, Singer left America and spent his final years on a houseboat in Egypt.

Singer Island homes today are known for their proximity to the ocean, their breathtaking views and their preservation of old Florida charm.

Marina Blue, a new Luxury High-Rise for Miami Real Estate

2006-11-21T10:09:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Marina Blue is one of the new high-rises set to enhance the Miami skyline across the street from Bayside and the American Airlines Arena.

The 60-story building will feature 516 one, two, and three bedroom units ranging in size from 900 to 2,200 square feet.

The newest addition to Miami real estate will feature a St. Tropez-style atmosphere with lap pool, tropical gardens, indoor and outdoor “Skylounge,” game room, fitness cardio center, as well as yoga and aerobics studios.

Condos in Marina Blue will have 9’ high ceilings, bay and city views, energy saving, impact resistant glass, ventilated closet shelving system, solid core entry door, granite and marble countertops, and stacked washer and dryer.

Loft-style condos at Marina Blue will feature 18’ ceilings.

Amenities at Marina Blue will include concierge and valet services, semi-private high speed elevators, and sun beaches with private cabanas, as well as private storage facilities and state-of-the-art business center.

Marina Blue condos start at $379,000. Completion is scheduled for 2007.

South Florida School to Build Center That Will Derive Energy from the Ocean

2006-11-20T11:06:00.000-05:00

Florida Atlantic University will receive funding to develop a center that focuses on extracting power from the Gulf Stream. The school hopes the project will not only generate more energy for South Florida but will also create new jobs for residents.

This college in Boca Raton is setting up plans to establish the Florida Center of Excellence in Ocean Energy Technology in the future at a cost of $5 million. Scientists plan to install power stations along the Gulf Stream that will derive energy from the ocean’s waves. The energy is then converted into electricity that maybe used for a variety of purposes in the future such as powering real estate in South Florida.

The center will also be in demand for new workers who will help in the development and research of the new ocean technology. FAU is to partner will Nova Southeastern University, the University of Central Florida and the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution as well as other departments and companies.

Oppenheim Architecture Set to Transform Miami Beach Real Estate

2006-11-20T10:37:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Two awards of excellence were given to Oppenheim Architecture by the American Institute of Architects and designers as part of the 52nd Annual Miami Design Awards. Oppenheim was honored in the categories of architecture and unbuilt for the design of Park Avenue Townhouses and Cube in Miami Beach.

Chad Oppenheim’s firm has been focused on plans for the Design District and Uptown in Miami. Other developments by the architectural firm set to form part of the Miami skyline include Ice and Element.

Montclair Lofts is yet another of Oppenheim’s creations and features innovative design that faced the challenge of having to be built on two lots that where located on either side of a pre-war apartment building. The complex is located on prime real estate along Meridian Avenue just one block from Lincoln Road. Montclair Lofts real estate features New York-style lofts with impact glass throughout, 11 foot ceilings, and Italian cabinetry.

Oppenheim’s design features two structures that wraparound the historic building and form an open, central courtyard. An infinity pool with a tropical garden set atop the existing building is the heart of the complex where residents relax and socialize.

Oppenheim’s designs provide us only a few examples on how Miami Beach real estate will be slowly transformed to include an eclectic mix of historic and modern architectural styles.

Historic Real Estate in Delray Beach to Get Makeover

2006-11-18T12:20:00.000-05:00

For months now, officials in Delray Beach have been restoring the city’s historic district. Last week, they agreed to improve an apartment complex off of Fifth Avenue to reduce crime and renovate the building so residents can live comfortably.

The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) received $500,000 from the city commission to repair the two-story complex located in West Settler’s Historic District. The CRA plans on turning the compound into nine rental apartments with new floors, windows, doors and a reconfiguration of the interiors. Renovators will also add new grass to the outside. They also plan on converting an empty building next door to a residential and commercial complex with condominiums and offices.

The CRA have completed restoring other real estate in Delray Beach. They paved the streets in Northwest and Southwest Fifth Avenue as well as adding terrazzo sidewalks. The CRA also saved two historic West Palm Beach homes from being demolished by moving them to Delray Beach and converting them to offices.

Homes in Boca Raton to Have Noise-Reduced Interiors near Airport

2006-11-17T11:02:00.000-05:00

Residents who live near Boca Raton Airport soon may not have to deal with the loud noise of planes landing and taking off.

Authorities at the South Florida airport are offering the Boca Raton Airport Quieter Home Program to homes that are plagued with the heavy sound of aircraft traffic. The plan will include the installation of soundproof interiors in at least thirty-five homes that are affected the most.

The program offered will not cost homeowners any money, according to the Boca Raton Airport Authority.

Boca Raton homes near the airport that are affected by 65 decibel noise levels may be chosen for the program. The Federal Aviation Administration plans on reducing the sound levels in these houses by 45 decibels.

The project is estimated to be around $1.2 million for now. More houses may be included in the plan in the future.

Mixed Use Project to Change the Face of Miami Real Estate

2006-11-17T10:45:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

For too long, those living in downtown Miami or in the hipper-than-ever design district have had to shlep north to Aventura or south to Kendall to enjoy the kind of big retail experience offered by inexpensive chain stores.

But thanks to a new mixed-use Miami real estate project in the midtown district, residents of downtown, Wynwood, and Edgewater will be able to shop just minutes from where they live, and bring more residents to this area, which has been enjoying a revitalization over the past few years.

The project, called Midtown Miami, covers 56 acres near North Miami Avenue just south of 1-95. It will ultimately include more than 3,000 condos, office space and entertainment outlets, as well as the Shops at Midtown Miami, featuring Target, Pottery Barn, Circuit City, Loehmann’s, Marshall’s, Ross Dress for Less, Linens ‘N Things and West Elm. In addition to the large retailers, the complex will include many specialty boutiques and shops. The only store open as of yet is Target, which opened in mid-October.

The new Miami condos will be spread over eleven towers and will draw new residents to the area, which was rundown before art galleries moved in a few years ago and began making the area trendy and hip. The idea is to create a new midtown where residents can live, work, shop and play, without having drive all over South Florida.

Better Interest Rates May Boost South Florida Real Estate Sales

2006-11-17T10:03:00.000-05:00

South Florida real estate may currently be going through slow times but once alternative credit scoring is more widely used; many first time buyers who haven’t achieved affordable interest rates due to lack of credit will be able to prove regular bill payment and achieve better scores, thus offered better rates.

According to Fair Isaac who developed the FICO score approximately 50 million Americans are considered difficult to score because they have little or no information on file at the national bureaus. This is the main reason many potential first time buyers are discouraged.

Thankfully an increasing number of mortgage brokers and lenders are starting to offer more scoring options. Anthem is one of the alternatives.

Developed by First American CREDCO, credit data subsidiary of First American Corp., the Anthem system uses a scoring method which combines information from the files of national bureaus such as Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, with information gathered by CREDCO from sources such as telephone, electricity, and other utility payments, as well as rent, payday lenders, and small local retailers.

Anthem is only one of the many systems being used today to help what is commonly referred to as “thin file” loan applicants.

Potential buyers looking at real estate in South Florida experiencing difficulty providing credit history should ask for scoring alternatives as a way to maximize their chances of purchasing property with the best possible loan options.

New Commercial Center in Boca Raton Real Estate May Begin Construction 2007

2006-11-16T10:50:00.000-05:00

Residents in Boca Raton may have a new area to shop and dine at off the corner of Yamato Road and U.S. 411.

It looks like officials are proceeding with plans to construct a commercial center that will house a CVS Pharmacy; the Mona Lisa Café, Coal Oven Pizza and other restaurants; a dry cleaning shop, a HSBC Bank USA and four single-family homes that will house disabled people.

VRD Realty Inc. plans on building the center, known as the Yamato Court Project, on 15 acres of land, half of which were in the American Homes Park, a recreational park that includes a playground, an open field and a parking lot. Although residents have expressed concerned over the construction on the park, officials made sure certain improvements were made to the area such as more trees and a small picnic area.

This new real estate in Boca Raton is expected to begin construction in March of 2007. The private school will include a recreational field for students, although the name of the school is uncertain. The Jewish Association for Residential Care will be in charge of building the new Boca Raton homes just south of the plaza.

Wilton Manors Real Estate Gets Wildlife Habitat Designation

2006-11-16T10:10:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Owners of Wilton Manors homes and businesses have worked hard over the past four years making their lawns lusher, their palms plusher and helping their gardens grow native.

All the hard work has paid off. The city of 13,000 residents will today be certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a community wildlife habitat.

The certification means that Wilton Manors is an environmentally friendly community, where native vegetation is encouraged, gardeners limit the use of pesticides, and residents provide shelter to different kinds of wildlife. Wilton Manors is one of only 20 cities in the country to receive the certification; Coconut Creek is the only other city in the South Florida tri-county area to be certified.

Gardens now bloom with orchids, cactuses, sugarcane, and heliconias. In addition to homeowners’ efforts on their own property, volunteers began a butterfly garden at the library in Wilton Manors.

Homes in Wilton Manors display the results of residents’ efforts. Driving through the quiet neighborhoods, house after house is gorgeously landscaped and maintained, adding to the overall beauty of real estate in Wilton Manors.

Lowering Homeowners Insurance for South Florida Real Estate

2006-11-16T09:42:00.000-05:00

By Alexandra Tarallo

Let’s face it; living in paradise has its cost. South Florida real estate has become increasingly expensive to insure. Some property owners have had their premiums raised up to 300 percent.

Thankfully our government has not been blind to the insurance crisis.

Florida Governor Jeb Bush recently appointed a special committee which unanimously approved fifty recommendations, some designed to help lower insurance costs for property owners, and others designed to create an easier environment for insurance companies to operate within.

Recommendations for consumers include allowing them to buy fire, theft, and liability coverage but no hurricane insurance. This option is good for property owners who have paid off their mortgage and are willing to take a risk and save money on high premiums.

Higher deductibles are another option for consumer savings. More options include upgrading your home with impact windows and hurricane shutters, and having your roof inspected for any weak areas that may use improvement.

Many new South Florida homes and condos already have incorporated new engineering standards designed to withstand Category 5 winds.

Some of these developments include Sapphire Condos in Fort Lauderdale scheduled to be completed by the end of 2007, and Las Olas Riverhouse which will start Phase II very soon.

Wellington Real Estate to Feature New Community

2006-11-15T10:33:00.000-05:00

Builders in Wellington are planning to develop a new single-family home subdivision in early 2007 with more than 200 units near State Road 7.

Castellina is the newest community in the village that will cover 134 acres of land. Developers Centex Homes and Engle Homes will construct homes that will range between 3,000 and a little more than 6,000 square feet near the Wellington Green Mall.

Many of these new homes in Wellington will be Mediterranean and French-style properties that offer crown molding, three or four-door garages, granite countertops and summer kitchens, which are located outside. Several houses will also feature generators in case the power goes out in the middle of a Hurricane. This gated community will also have amenities such as a swimming pool and a children’s playground.

Owners purchased the land in December of 2006 at a cost of $62.4 million. The prices for this real estate in Wellington will range between $600,000 and $1,000,000. Castellina will be located near schools, shopping areas and medical centers.

Palm Beach County Real Estate Popular for Making Movies

2006-11-15T10:30:00.000-05:00

By Mary Damiano

Movie crews descended on Currie Park in Palm Beach yesterday to shoot the new film “The Prince and the Pauper,” starring twins Cole and Dylan Sprouse, from the popular Disney Channel show, “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.” The film will use several locations throughout Palm Beach County.

“The Prince and the Pauper” is the most recent in a long line of movies that have used Palm Beach County cities and their prime South Florida real estate for their settings and locations.

“The Boynton Beach Club”, was shot at several homes in Boynton Beach, as well as other locations in that city. The decision to use Boynton Beach as both the setting and the location for the film was a no-brainer—the idea for the movie came from director Susan Seidelman’s mother, Florence, who lives in a gated community in Boynton Beach. The film, which stars Dyan Cannon, Joseph Bologna, Brenda Vaccaro and Michael Nouri, had a shoestring budget, and depended on Florence’s neighbors allowing shooting on their streets, in their homes and community.

Another recent film using Palm Beach as a backdrop was the 2005 movie “In Her Shoes,” starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine, and based on the bestselling book by Jennifer Weiner. The film was shot in Briny Breezes, a mobile home community near Boynton Beach, as well as Delray Beach.

Other films that have used Palm Beach County locales include 2003’s “Bad Boys II,” starring Martin Lawrence and Will Smith, which used a mansion in Delray Beach as a location; 2001’s “Heartbreakers,” starring Sigourney Weaver and Jennifer Love Hewitt, which was filmed at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Red Reef Golf Course in Boca Raton and Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach; 1981’s “Body Heat,” starring Kathleen Turner and William Hurt, used downtown Lake Worth as a location; and 1997’s “Donnie Brasco,” starring Al Pacino and Johnny Depp, which used the Palm Beach County Kennel Club as a location.